Latest Issue: August 2023–Saints Preview

Are you ready for some Saints football? Fans are excited for the arrival of new quarterback, Derek Carr. The four-time AllPro QB is primed to lead the Saints to the NFC South title. Don’t miss Andrew Alexander’s preview of the 2023 squad.

The Saints Cheer Krewe has evolved into one of the leading outfits in the NFL. Kim Tubre takes us on a walk through the history of Saints cheerleading, starting in 1967 and ending with today’s krewe.

This issue features other great Saints-themed editorial, including Kathy Bradshaw’s look at the history of the fleur de lis, Reine Dugas’ profile on tailgating, and Sabrina Stone’s rundown of dog-friendly locales to watch the big game.

Happy birthday to us. Please save the date for Where Y’at’s 25th Anniversary party on September 1st at Generations Hall. And keep an eye out for our 25th Anniversary issue out in late

August 2023 YEARS

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Josh Danzig

Creative Director: Robert Witkowski

Executive Editor: Reine Dugas

Copy Editor: Donald Rickert

Movie Editors: David Vicari, Fritz Esker

Contributing Writers: Kathy Bradshaw, Phil LaMancusa, Debbie Lindsey, Kim Ranjbar, Burke Bischoff, Julie Mitchell, Greg Roques, Sabrina Stone, Kimmie Tubre, Emily Hingle, Camille Barnett, Celeste Turner, Donald Rickert

Cover: Saints Cheer Krewe by Romney Caruso

Director of Sales: Jim Sylve

Photographers and Designers: Gus Escanelle, Kim Ranjbar, Emily Hingle, Kathy Bradshaw, Peter Forest, Robert Witkowski

Interns: Arielle Gonzales, Abigail Schmidt, Morgan Spizale, Janie Bickerton, Kaitlin Lowe, Trinity Brown

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THIS CITY’S GOT SPIRIT Evolution of the Saints Cheer Krewe

By Kimmie Tubre

• Photography by Romney Caruso

While the city and surrounding areas love supporting their favorite team, the Saints get the most support from their amazing cheer team, the Saints Cheer Krewe. Previously known as the Saintsations, the team revamped their crew and their name in 2021. The goal was to become more inclusive, incorporating all genders while also merging all of the athletic aspects of a cheer team–from tumbling, to stunts, to dance.

In April 2023, as they do every year, the Cheer team opened for auditions for the new football season. Entering their third year as the Saints Cheer Krewe, the crew has amplified the game experience, becoming the ultimate entertainment team. Representing a diversity of members, the candidates were challenged with new stunts, new cheers, and new demands. While there are many new things about this cheer crew, having a dance or cheer team perform along the sidelines during Saints games is nothing new.

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN

As long as there has been the Saints, there have been Saints dancers and cheerleaders. That's right, the first auditions were held in 1967 where hundreds of women competed for a spot amongst the 60 dance team members being picked at the time. Once those ladies were selected, they went on to begin rehearsing in the summer of 1967 and were an active part of the Saints first year as an NFL football team. At that time, the dance team was named the Lousiannes, but then they became the Mademoiselles one year later. During those early years there were two separate groups of performers: the Saints cheerleaders and the dancers.

While the recent name change took many by surprise, it is actually a common event throughout the cheer teams’ history. Over the years, the team went through a number of name changes and changes in general. First they simplified their name to the Mam'selles, mostly due to the ease of the spelling. Then they became the Bonnes Amies, meaning "good friends" in French. For a brief period, the dance team was called the Angels. And during other times, they were simply referred to as the Saints Dancers or Danceteam.

The citizens of Louisiana love many things, but nothing may be more beloved than the New Orleans Saints. Whether the NFL football team wins or loses, their diehard fans are there, backing them even when it hurts. Sometimes with a brown paper bag covering their heads.

SAINTS CHEER KREWEUNFILTERED

The Krewe spills the tea on stereotypes, hard work, and what it takes to make the field.

By Robert Witkowski

Many think the Saints Cheer Krewe’s job is just to show up on game day and look pretty,” says Sara Anderson, Director of Entertainment Teams. “Most people don’t know how much the Krewe put into this team, how much I ask, the time commitment, and all the external activities: charity appearances, public and private events, even getting them out to the fans in Champions Square before the game until kickoff.”

KEEpINg IT REaL

Saints Cheer Krewe members Jade Taylor, Sarah Wolfe, and Lakyn Ward agree that inaccurate stereotypes persist and want to set the record straight.

“People think we aren’t super professional or intelligent,” Taylor says. “We have doctors, STEM teachers, educators, nurses, and Carter [Healthcare] nurse educators cheering.”

“I’m asked, ‘Is that your only job?’” says Wolfe. “No. We have a variety of jobs and professions. People don’t understand the time commitment and time management required juggling jobs, family, friends.”

BaLaNcINg acT

More than the time commitment, maintaining their skills is a top priority. Anderson—called “Mother” by the Krewe members—lives up to her nickname with tough love leading her team members. “We are not looking for a certain number of blondes, brunettes, or body types. We want athleticism and professionalism.”

The 2023 roster includes ages from 18 to the mid-30s. And the “Krewe members sign up for certain expectations” that Anderson and the Krewe coaches set.

“It’s about balancing real adult life and enjoying your passion,” says Ward.

Alexis Moran adds, “Diversity, shape, and size of the members moves far away from the superficial.”

goINg pRo

The Saints Cheer Krewe talent comes also from various origins, with unusual connections.

“I did gymnastics off and on in high school,” Taylor explains. “I tried out for competitive cheer at LSU but didn’t make it. If I had, I would not be on this Krewe. God works it all out.”

Mississippi native Tyler Simmons moved to Louisiana to cheer, spying an ad calling for male NFL cheerleaders. “I said, ‘I’m gonna go for it,’” Simmons recalls.

Celebrating in Champions Square before a Saints game, Dylan Avery saw the Saints Cheer Krewe perform. A former cheerleader at Florida State University, Avery was excited to see there were males on a professional NFL cheer team. "I was shocked thinking, that's a thing?" he laughs. He approached the closest one—Tyler Simmons—and asked, “How do I do this?” The rest is his-story.

“The very first team years and years and years ago was a coed cheer and dance team,” Anderson extolls. With a “clear vision from day one,” males were reintroduced into the Cheer Krewe.

REspEcTINg ThE BRaND

A former dancer for the Pelicans basketball team, Anderson was tapped to lead the Saints Cheer Krewe when it was formed in 2021, evolving the all-dance Saintsations into one combined cheer/dance team.

“I had a moment of panic. I’m a dancer, not a cheerleader,” she admits. “But I was an LSU Tiger girl and loved watching cheer. I took my knowledge to mesh different sports. Once we rebranded Saints Cheer Krewe, I immediately set out to find ways to make them one. A huge part of what we do is to best represent the Saints brand.”

Things came to a halt during the late 70s. But what happened some years later changed the pace of what would become one of the most recognizable NFL sideline performance teams of all times.

TWO BECAME ONE

In 1987, the standing General Manager of the Saints, Jim Finks, proposed bringing back a dance team to the Superdome sidelines. Under his suggestion, this team would merge the cheerleaders and dancers creating a world of dance, acrobatics, and cheer performances. The Saints then hired Sandra Labourdette, a prominent dance studio owner, to work as the official choreographer.

With 25 plus dancers chosen, the group was initially called the Saints Dancers. The name was later changed to the Saintsations after fans voted on the best name for the team that would be performing and cheering on the Saints for years to come. While the new team started out small, it grew over the years not only in size, but also in popularity. Many fans who attended the football games equally enjoyed watching the Saintsations perform and interact with the crowd.

MAJOR NAME CHANGE

While the cheer crew has changed their name over the years, the name change in 2021 came to fans as a major surprise—it was hard for many to fathom calling the team anything other than the Saintsations.

In December of 2021, the New Orleans Saints shocked many fans with the following post, “We asked Saints nation to tell us what we should call our new entertainment team, which includes the region’s best dancers, cheerleaders, and stunters. With help from our fans, this team will now be known as the Saints Cheer Krewe.”

With a new name came new members, incorporating more male cheerleaders, more stunts, more equality, and more diversity. Though changes have been made to the team, it remains a team of some of the best cheer athletes in the city.

MORE THAN A CHEER TEAM

The Saints Cheer Krewe is best known for their support on the field, but don’t be mistaken, this team has always been involved in a plethora of activities outside of the Superdome.

Not only are the Cheer members often hired to attend other private and public events, but being a part of the cheer squad has opened up many future opportunities for the members of the crew. Many Saints Cheerleaders move on into amazing careers and in some instances receive a bit of fame.

The cheer crew is also known for its philanthropic works throughout the years. It is common to see the Saints Cheer Krewe at charity events, inside schools, supporting the Jr. Saints Krewe and much more. They’ve been involved in causes from the Muscular Dystrophy Association to becoming international ambassadors of Goodwill.

Today’s Saints Cheer Krewe is an amazing group of talented dancers, stunters, and performers, coming from all walks of life. With the new inclusivity, this team is certainly destined to become the best NFL performance team of all time.

Co-ed Saintsations inaugural season, 1987

All-female Saintsations

Saintsations Finalists , 2018

Generations Hall

CARR'PE DIEM SAINTS PREVIEW

New Saints QB Derek Carr is Key to Saints Season

The beginning of Dennis Allen’s head coaching tenure last season in New Orleans started off promising with a win over the Atlanta Falcons, but continued with a whimper, and ultimately was very forgettable.

The Saints lost three of their first four games last season, didn’t win back-to-back games until December, finished 7-10, and missed playoffs for the second straight season. Additionally, Saints fans were subjected to watching mediocre quarterback Andy Dalton play in 14 games. There weren’t many quarterbacks in the NFL who inspired less confidence than Dalton last season.

However, despite managing only seven wins last season, the division winner, Tampa Bay, only needed eight wins to capture the NFC South last year. The silver lining for the 2023 season? The division which featured four teams under .500 in 2022 might be even worse this year.

There are new quarterbacks galore in the NFC South, and if the newly signed Derek Carr can take care of business, at least better than his three divisional counterparts, the Saints might have a shot to return to the postseason.

OFFENSE

The highlight of New Orleans’ offseason was the signing of quarterback Derek Carr. The former Las Vegas Raider threw for over 3,500 yards and 24 touchdowns last season, but he also had a career high 14 interceptions in just 15 games. The prior four seasons, in which he played every game, saw Carr throw for over 4,000 yards in each of those seasons, with a career high of 4,084 in 2021. To say the situation with the Raiders over the past few years was dysfunctional is an understatement. Carr is the best quarterback the Saints have had since Drew Brees retired, and perhaps a change in scenery will rejuvenate his career.

Remember when Michael Thomas caught two touchdowns in the Saints’ opener last season then only played two more games all year? Thomas has appeared in three games the last two seasons, but the former AllPro could be the x-factor of a potent passing attack if he stays healthy. He’ll be joined by second year receivers Chris Olave, who led the team with over 1,000 yards receiving last year,

and Rashid Shaheed (488 yards and two touchdowns). Tight end Juwan Johnson returns after his 508-yard, seven touchdown season and is joined by former Raider, and New Orleans native, Foster Moreau, along with newly-signed, returning Saint Jimmy Graham, who starred with the team from 2010-2014 and ranks second in franchise history with 51 touchdown receptions. And of course, Alvin Kamara is always a threat in the passing game. Speaking of Kamara, he headlines a stout running back group after totaling nearly 1,400 total rushing and receiving yards last season. The former Tennessee

Saints coach Dennis Allen will be keeping a close eye on new-toNew Orleans QB Derek Carr this season.

SAINTS OPEN PRACTICES

Volunteer is joined by Jamaal Williams, who rushed for over 1,000 yards and a league-leading 17 touchdowns last year, as well as rookie Kendre Miller. The newcomer rushed for 1,399 yards and 17 touchdowns last year at TCU. The lingering question hanging over this group is if Kamara will be suspended by the NFL after being arrested during the 2022 Pro Bowl weekend. If the suspension occurs, and is lengthy, don’t be surprised to see New Orleans’ Swiss Army knife, Taysom Hill, continue to eat up snaps after tallying 575 rushing yards and seven touchdowns last season.

Open to the public on the following dates:, starting start at 9:00 a.m

• Monday, July 31

• Friday, August 4

• Saturday, August 5

• Sunday, August 6

• Thursday, August 10

Tickets will be available starting at 10:00 a.m. each day. Fans are encouraged to sign up for the Saints Season Ticket Holder Wait List for early access by visiting neworleanssaints. com/tickets/waitlist.

Fans can reserve tickets for open practices by registering at neworleanssaints.com.

DEFENSE

The Saints defense was the strength of last season’s team, featuring a top-10 unit and was one of only three defenses to have five players with at least five sacks. After utilizing co-defensive coordinators last season, the Saints have a new man at the helm of the defense. Woods takes over after spending the last three years as the defensive coordinator of the Cleveland Browns. In 2021, Woods oversaw a Browns defense that finished as a top-five unit. Defensive end stalwart Cam Jordan enters his 13th NFL season, but he cannot carry the Saints’ front seven alone, despite leading the team in sacks again last year (8.5) and tackles for loss (13). Woods is counting on ends Payton Turner, Carl Granderson, Isaiah Foskey, and Tanoh Kpassagnon to

provide more than just depth. The interior of the defensive line is probably the biggest question mark of the unit and is comprised of several new faces, including free agents Khalen Saunders, Nathan Shepherd, and first round draft pick Bryan Bresee.

The strength of this unit this season will likely be the linebackers, led by Demario Davis and Pete Werner, two of the top three leading tacklers from last year. It’ll be intriguing to see who steps up among the rest of the group, between D’Marco Jackson, Zack Baun, Anfernee Orji, and Nick Anderson.

In the secondary, if cornerback Marshon Lattimore can return to pre-injury form after missing 10 games last season, that would be a huge boost for this unit, as young corners Alontae Taylor and Paulson Adebo continue to progress. At safety, Tyrann Mathieu is still a playmaker, and was a bright spot for this unit in his debut season after leading the team with three interceptions. Veteran safety Marcus Maye is also one of the Saints top-five returning tacklers.

PREDICTION

Every NFL team’s success hinges on the ability of its quarterback, and the Saints have not had much luck with that position the past two seasons. Carr’s arrival is not the second coming of Drew Brees, but he is an above-average NFL quarterback. Questions linger on if Dennis Allen is actually a good coach (his 15-38 record suggests otherwise), if Michael Thomas will play most of the season, if Alvin Kamara will be suspended, and if the new players will step up on defense. Of all the questions surrounding the various players and coaches on this team, if Carr is able to resurrect the passing game, good things can happen for New Orleans, especially in a weak division.

New Orleans: 9-8, NFC South Champion; NFC Wild Card Game.

SAINTS 2023 SEASON SCHEDULE

Jimmy Graham in 2012

Alvin Kamara

A Saints pre-game party is half the fun.

Everyone knows how much New Orleans loves a party. Well, New Orleans Saints’ fans take that to the next level on game day in the form of pre-game tailgating. On any given game day, all around the streets of the Superdome, groups of fans set up their own little party, ready to have a good time and support the Saints. People come out every week, no matter how the Saints are playing. Some people stop by a tailgate for an hour before the game, and some stay all day. Ryne Hancock sees it as “a tune-up before you go into the Dome. You get your bites and drinks, meet people, and then roll on over to the Dome.”

Tailgating can take a multitude of shapes from a small, casual set up to a more elaborate one with sofas, big-screen TVs, tents, custom grills, and professional sound systems. Jim Sylve says, “What we do in New Orleans is use the whole neighborhood as a tailgate spot. Right off of Canal Street, people are on their porch having a tailgate party. You walk down Poydras, and people find a spot of grass on the neutral ground, and that’s their tailgate.” Of their spot, Sylve says, “It’s not very glamorous—it’s outside industrial sheds with tires laying around, but they found a spot with a shady tree, and people use what’s there—

Most tailgaters have been doing it for years—it’s become a tradition that starts every August. By Reine Dugas

11:30am - 4:00am

Serving food until 4am

Pizzas, Burgers, Hot Dogs, Sandwiches, Wings Over 100 Beers

All Sports Packages

Sixteen 65" TVs

it’s tailgating in its purest form. I don’t know if it’s like this everywhere, but, here, anybody’s welcome.

Sylve’s been tailgating with this same group, founded by his friend, John Robinson, since just after Katrina. Robinson says, “the best part of tailgating for me is the preparation—figuring out the menu for the tailgate, loading the trailers, touching up the port-o-lets, and getting down there the night before the set up, put on a little music, and letting the fun begin the night before.”

Much like party food, tailgate food has its own identity, and it’s an important part of the tailgate. Everyone has their favorites. Hancock’s favorite tailgate food? “I would have to say wings. I love me a good wing,” he says.

Allen Keller’s favorite is red beans. “I personally cook a pot of red beans for every tailgate. I start them on Saturday evening and slow cook them until Sunday morning— the best.”

Indeed, tailgate food includes some of the best New Orleans has to offer. You’ll find giant pots of jambalaya or gumbo simmering on game day. A rack of ribs or steaks might be on the menu. Food cooked by people who know what they’re doing, and you best believe, it’s going to be delicious, plentiful, and seasoned right. Sylve adds that there’s also Jello shots—“a lot of Jello shots.”

Along with the food, drink, and music, camaraderie is the heart of a tailgate experience. The mood is always high and everybody’s friendly. It’s a party, after all, a New Orleans’ party, so you know what that means. Friends gather to hang out, and if you were a stranger before, you aren’t anymore—not on this day and not in this city. If you’re on the opposing team, that’s alright too. Sylve says of people walking by in opposing teams’ jerseys, “We might razz ‘em a little, in fun, but we always offer them something to eat or drink.”

The joy of people sharing the experience of a tailgate party is really something unique. It’s always about the people. Keller says, “There’s nothing better than enjoying your favorite team with good people: the fun, the laughs, the conversations, the dancing, the comradery. A good tailgate begins and ends with the people.” Robinson feels the same and adds, “Matter of fact, I consider everyone family.”

Tailgates are more than just parties though. People have made lifelong friendships and had experiences they never would have anywhere else. Sylve notes, “I’ve been able to meet a lot of people— fellow New Orleanians—that I might never have met. I’ve seen people’s kids grow up

over the years at the tailgate.”

Community outreach has also been a result of Saints tailgating. Keller founded the mutual aid group #TailgateTogether after bringing tailgate leftovers to the houseless community in the area after games. As it grew, he says, there was “something about feeding the unhoused our leftovers that didn’t feel right to me, so we started cooking them separate, fresh meals.” Then they began cooking more than just on game day and now Keller, along with Katherine Seals, serves the houseless community year-round through the efforts of #TailgateTogether.

Most would agree that a New Orleans tailgate is truly unique. Keller says, “It's different here simply because New Orleans is different. There's no other city in the world like New Orleans, and there's no other tailgate like a Saints tailgate.” Sylve adds, “It’s a communal feeling of people of all ages rallying around the Saints, NOLA music, good food, and then everyone walks in unison to the Superdome when it’s time. The whole thing is like church. It’s an event.”

The Saints have had their ups and downs but there’s no denying that they have some of the loudest, most passionate fans in the world, so it should come as no surprise that they know how to tailgate. If you’ve never been, throw on your black and gold on game day, pick up a box of chicken to share, and head down early to the areas around the Superdome. In no time flat, you’ll get yourself a delicious bowl of red beans or a Jello shot, dance to whatever tunes the DJ’s spinning, and head to the Dome with your new best friends and maybe a new tradition to boot.

ALLURE OF THE

The Story of the Fleur de Lis

New Orleanians do everything with a fleur-ish. This widespread French symbol is now the logo of the Big Easy and the pride of Saints fans everywhere. It can be found all over the city—as fleur as the eye can see.

By Kathy Bradshaw

The fleur de lis (or sometimes, fleur de lys) is everywhere in New Orleans. It’s molded in iron atop fences. It’s splashed across flags and tattooed on ankles. It adorns Saints helmets and throw pillows and tote bags. It figures in local décor, clothing, and jewelry. And fleurs de lis practically fill souvenir shops all over town, decorating every postcard and t-shirt and mug and keychain and ornament and random tchotchke. Yes, the fleur de lis exists in practically every format imaginable. They even make a fleur de lis pasta and a

fleur de lis waffle maker.

But there’s a reason for the everywhereness of this symbol that goes beyond the fact that it’s pretty and looks great on socks. The fleur de lis has come to represent New Orleans itself, as well as the rest of Louisiana. It is a symbol of the strength and resilience of the city, especially post-Katrina. And it’s a nod to the heritage and culture of the region and its strong French influences. Here’s a look at the origins of the fleur de lis and how it came to embellish your doormat and cufflinks.

Near and Fleur

The fleur de lis has been around almost since the beginning of time—at least as far back as the 3rd century BC, and perhaps even earlier. It allegedly turned up in Ancient Egyptian lore, symbolizing the snake that bit and killed Cleopatra. The prolific symbol has appeared in civilizations around the world, from Belarus to Bosnia, Florence to Finland, Malta to Montreal. But the fleur de lis is most often tied to France.

Fit Fleur a King

There's no French history without the fleur de lis. Going back to the days of Clovis, who was essentially the first king of France in around 481 AD, the fleur de lis has long been the emblem of French kings and Catholics. By the time Kings Louis took the throne, the fleur de lis had begun appearing on all their monarchical cloaks, royal scepters, and other noble accouterments. And because of the fleur's association with religion, many French people saw the fleur de lis as a symbol of divine intervention in the lives of the kings and in the affairs of France as a whole.

A Flowery Past

In case you’re oblivious or live under a rock and aren’t familiar with its shape, the fleur de lis has three parts, roughly

resembling three petals tied together at the base. There is a lot of artistic license in how the symbol is portrayed—with considerable variation in color and design, from basic to frilly.

The fleur de lis represents a stylized flower, though there’s an ongoing debate as to whether that flower is a lily or an iris.

The lily school of thought is straightforward— translated literally, fleur de lis means “lily flower” in French. On the other hand, those on team iris point out the fact that there is a river in France, near which heaps of yellow irises grow, that’s known as the Lys River. This is also where many French kings were believed to have spent lots of time ruling over their peasants and bourgeois, which explains why the iris might have inspired the symbol.

What’s the Meaning of This?

The fleur de lis has meant many different things to many different people and has played a variety of roles throughout history.

It is often associated with religion, especially Catholicism, representing purity, chastity, and the Virgin Mary. The three parts of the flower are often said to stand for either faith, wisdom, and chivalry or the Holy Trinity (as in the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit, and not the celery, onion, and peppers in your jambalaya). According to one French historian, the three petals were actually meant to symbolize the three French social “estates” of yore: commoners, nobility, and clergy.

Unfortunately, however, the fleur de lis didn’t always have the favorable associations that it does today. During the time of slavery, some New Orleanians would punish those enslaved people who tried to escape by branding a fleur-de-lis onto their bodies.

Nowadays, the fleur de lis—in its more positive light—has been adopted by cities, countries, and organizations worldwide. It’s the symbol of Boy Scouts and frat boys, sororities and universities. It’s on sports team uniforms and military uniforms, coats of arms and Chevrolets. It's infiltrated literature, film, fashion, and architecture.

Flair de Lis

It’s likely that the fleur de lis came to Louisiana along with the French colonists. The Cajuns and Creoles adopted it to honor their French roots. Local TV stations use it as their own, and local residents embrace it like a badge of honor. On July 9, 2008, former Louisiana governor Bobby Jindal officially made the fleur de lis a Louisiana state symbol.

The fleur de lis stands for everything that is New Orleans: perseverance, history, boldness, courage, flashiness, pride. It has become ingrained in the culture of the city. The fleur de lis is New Orleans.

HAIR OF THE DOG

Dog-Friendly Bars in the Big Easy

By Sabrina Stone

We’ve scoured the city to bring you two dozen places to do as many of those activities as possible, without leaving your dog behind.

*As a rule of thumb, if you’ve got a well behaved dog, and the bar has outdoor seating, you’ll generally be welcome anywhere. Just call in advance to be sure.

THE FRENCH QUARTER

There’s a surprising number of bars in the French Quarter where you can watch a game and bring your furry friend, which is very convenient when you’ve got visitors from out of town who want to stick close to Bourbon Street.

For a chill vibe with pizza, pool, and a dartboard, Cosimo’s is a French Quarter go-to. The famous Erin Rose Irish Pub incorporates screens, snacks, and a jukebox with your sports-themed experience. Harry’s Corner is where locals hang, where many a tiny pooch has

New Orleans is the sort of city where you don’t have to sacrifice eating good food or watching your favorite game when spending quality time with your furry "best friend."

Three Legged Dog

IN THE CBD

The CBD boasts a lot of fancier restaurants, hotels, and asphalt but it’s also home to many dog-friendly digs.

Family-friendly, yummy, and superfans of the pups, Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant is a great choice for Tex-Mex plates, beachy bites, or pescatarian grub. Down the Hatch serves heartier Cajun platters, has a

cute outdoor area, a giant rooster, and The Rusty Nail has cocktails galore, trivia, bar games, and a big patio for pups, as well as for patios, or bring game. is a microbrewery with hard seltzers, beer slushies, and lemonade. They’ve got a

ton of arcade games, so if you’re feeling ambitious, bring the whole family. NOLA Brewing Co has a great view of the mighty Mississippi from its roof-deck, and, if things get overwhelming for your dog, Camp Bow Wow is right around the corner. At Snake and Jake’s Christmas Club Lounge you can “buy a shot” for the shop dogs; don’t worry, it’s filled with puppy chow.

Sidecar & Rusty Nail

Miel Brewery & Taproom

Port Orleans Brewing Co.

Second Line Brewing

Faubourg Brewery

Dine with King at Happy Hour

Lunch Hours  Friday - Sunday 11am - 3pm

Daily Food + Drink Specials

OFF THE GREENWAY

If you’re looking for a leisurely stroll to the pub, these four beer gardens are right off the Mid-City Lafitte Greenway.

Bayou Beer Garden and Wrong Iron on the Greenway, both close to the bayou, have great food, tons of screens, a fun atmosphere, and have hosted many an adoption event. They’re really fun for large groups and at Wrong Iron, you can even roast your own s’mores. Further afield, Second Line Brewing is a family-friendly

ALL AROUND TOWN

Not every bar with an animal in its name is animal friendly but these five places definitely are.

The Bulldog , at both its Uptown and Mid-City locations, is Fido-friendly, inside and out. Copper Monkey Bar & Grill welcomes you and your dog with po-boys out on their patio area, where they’ve got a screen. Dat Dog locations vary on dog-friendliness. Frenchmen Street is a tight squeeze, but their Magazine and Freret Street locations have huge outdoor areas, filled with picnic tables, overhangs, and umbrellas.

Flamingo

A-Go-Go focuses more on vibes than food but those vibes are funky, fun, and friendly.

Three Legged Dog is an old school dive bar, short on ambiance, long on grease and tater tots, and sometimes, exactly what you need.

ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE POND

Over in Algiers, The Crown & Anchor English Pub is known for its generally British vibes and badass Tardis. The pub is dog-friendly, as is the ferry to get there, so it’s worth a lovely outing on a sunny day.

SPECIAL MENTION

Lots of Bywater and Marigny places are pupfriendly but Pepp’s Pub is the only one that was named after and themed around a dog. Pepper’s owners created this venue during the pandemic and, since its creation, it has become filled with polaroid dog portraits. This is the one place where, if a dog is annoying someone, that someone better prepare to go. Dogs rule here.

Wrong Iron

craft beer garden located right where the Greenway ends. Skeeta Hawk Brewing is the newest place to grace our list. They keep limited hours, generally closing at 9 p.m., but will stay open late for a good game. As a bonus, they’re next to an A+ bagel joint and across the street from a decent expanse of unplanted greenway where your dogs can run around.

Extra points go to the pubs that sponsor adoption events—they are the dog friendliest. Volunteers at Mid-City's Take Paws Rescue find fosters and furever homes for their pups at pubs and breweries that around town which include Faubourg Brewing Co., Zony Mash, Second Line Brewing, and Wrong Iron. Look online at takepawsrescue.org or stop in one of the venues for a frosty pint and learn when upcoming adoption events are scheduled.

Did we miss your favorite place to go drink with your pup?

Let us know: info@WhereYat.com.

Pepp's Pub

MUSIC CALENDAR

TUESDAY, AUGUST 1

AllWays Lounge Sw33theartbreak

Bambolula’s The Villians, Amber Rachelle and Sweet Potatoes, Andy J Forest Blues

Cafe Negril The Super-Most-Fantastic-Blues-N-

Such Jam

Joy Theater Jidenna

Picnic Provisions & Whiskey Mikayla Braun

Polo Club Lounge David Boeddinghaus

Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Smoking Time

Jazz Club

Swig & Swine Barbecue Mark Appleford

The National WWII Museum Stage Door Idol

The Rabbit Hole Rebirth Brass Band

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 2

Apple Barrel Mark Appleford

Bamboula’s Walker 3 Finger Slingers, Big Soul, Roule and the Queen

Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band

DMACS Sam Price & Friends

Cafe Negril Colin Davis, Night People

DMACS Sam Price

House of Blues Riki Rachtman

New Orleans Jazz Museum Storyville Stompers

Old US Mint Storyville Stompers

Picnic Provisions & Whiskey Mikayla Braun

Polo Club Lounge

Rock n Bowl

Santos

Spotted Cat

The Jazz Playhouse

The National WWII Museum

Toulouse Theatre

THURSDAY, AUGUST 3

Apple Barrel

Bamboula’s

Bar Marilou

Combo

Blue Nile Cafe Negril

Carrollton Station Dale Dolese + The Tanglers

City Park - Pavilion

Ladies of Soul

DMACS Paggy Prine, Pizza Man’s Fam Jam

For up-to-date listings visit WhereYat.com

Gasa Gasa Kriss

Russ

House of Blues

Leela James

Joy Theater

Heidecker

Tim

Le Bon Temps

Roulé The Soul

Rebels

Polo Club Lounge

John Royen

Rock n Bowl

Leroy Thomas & the Zydeco Road

Runners

Spotted Cat Chris

Christy, Jumbo

Shrimp Jazz Band

Three Keys - Ace

Hotels Kyndra Joi & Soul Theory

The Jazz

Playhouse Brass-AHolics

FRIDAY, AUGUST

4 Apple Barrel Mark

Appleford

Bamboula’s Noah

Vicknair Band, Fully

Dressed Po Boys, Big

Soul, Bettis and 3rd

Degree

Blue Nile Kermit

Ruffins, The Caesar

Brothers

BLACK FLAG AT HOUSE OF BLUES NEW ORLEANS

One of music’s first hardcore punk bands, Black Flag will be joined by fellow punk group TOTAL CHAOS, which was formed in 1989. August 5, 7 p.m., $36.50-$74, houseofblues.com/neworleans

Bombay Club Coyote Anderson ft. Marty Peters

Cafe Negril Felipe Antonio Quintet, Higher

Heights

Carrollton Station Leisure Hour

d.b.a. The Soul Rebels

DMACS ESP

Gasa Gasa Scene Summer Slam

Howlin’ Wolf Locate S,1

House of Blues The Kurt Loders

Mahalia Jackson Theater Bored Teachers

NOLA Brewing Desert Nudes

NOPSI Hotel Matt Lemmler

Ochsner Fitness Center - Harahan Big Sam

Polo Club Lounge John Royen, Robin Barnes

Rock n Bowl Boogie Mens

Spotted Cat Chris Johnson Band

The Jazz Playhouse Romy Kaye

Tipitina’s Brass-a-Holics

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Tropical Isle

Bourbon Rhythm & Rain Trio

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5

AllWays Lounge

THigh Society Hour

Bamboula’s

Walker and 3 Finger Slingers, Jack pritchet, Johnny Mastro blues, Paggy Prine

Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band, George Brown

Cafe Negril Jason Neville, John Lisi

Carrollton Station Salmon Shorts + Allison

d.b.a. Little Freddie King, Tuba Skinny

DMACS Pocket Chocolate

Gasa Gasa Rose Garden Funeral Party

House of Blues Black Flag

Istanbul Shawarma School Of Rock 4th

Annual Summer Music Festival

JAS Venue Rick David & The Funky 5

Joy Theater Danny Brown, Killer Mike

Le Bon Temps Roulé Grits & Greens

NOLA Brewing Marc Paradis Duo

Polo Club Lounge Bean & The Boys, John Royen

Rock N Bowl The Eagles Vs Fleetwood Mac

Spotted Cat Soul Brass Band

The Jazz Playhouse The Nayo Jones Experience

Tipitina’s IKO Allstars

Toulouse Theatre Burris & Special Guests

Present: Emo Night

Tropical Isle Bayou Club Fiddler & The

Crossroads, Greg Holt

Tropical Isle Bourbon Rhythm & Rain Trio

SUNDAY, AUGUST 6

Bacchanal Wine Noah Young Trio, Tangiers

Combo

Bamboula’s Eric Motel and Kinda Blue, Youse, Ed will blues 4 sale

Blue Nile The Baked Potatoes, Street Legends

Brass Band

Buffa’s Some Like It Hot!

Cafe Negril Vegas Cola

MUSIC CALENDAR

LYLE LOVETT AT THE ORPHEUM

This Texas-based singer and actor has won four Grammy Awards. His song “Cowboy Man” hit #10 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. August 17, 8 p.m., tickets start at $53, orpheumnola.net

d.b.a.

DMACS Tom Andes

Fillmore Toosi

Howlin’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

J&K Bar MagDoz!

Polo Club Lounge David Boeddinghaus

Siberia Mizmor, Thou, Fauns

Swig & Swine Barbecue Mark Appleford

The Chole DJ G

Toulouse Theatre Rose Cangelosi

Tropical Isle Bourbon Rhythm & Rain Trio

MONDAY, AUGUST 7

Apple Barrel Mark Appleford

Bamboula’s Rug Cutters, The Melataun’s, Ed Wills Blues 4 Sale

Carrollton Station Singer/Songwriter Open Mic

DMACS Danny Alexander’s Blues Jam

Polo Club Lounge John Royen

Southport Hall Powerman 5000

St. Roch Tavern Max Bien Kahn, Camille Weatherford

TUESDAY, AUGUST 8

Bambolula’s The Villians, Amber Rachelle and Sweet Potatoes, Andy J Forest Blues

Cafe Negril The Super-Most-Fantastic-Blues-NSuch Jam

Capulet T Marie & Bayou Juju

DMACS Karaoke

Gasa Gasa Drumming Bird, Andrew Montana

Orpheum Theater The Ghost Inside, Underoath

Polo Club Lounge David Boeddinghaus

Spotted Cat Smoking Time Jazz Club

Swig & Swine Barbecue Mark Appleford

The Rabbit Hole Rebirth Brass Band

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9

Apple Barrel Mark Appleford

Bamboula’s Walker and 3 finger slingers, Tiffany and jazz masters, Roule and Queen

Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band

Cafe Negril Colin Davis, Higher Heights

DMACS Joey Houck

Gasa Gasa Connor Kelly & The Time Warp

House of Blues The Queers, The Jasons

Polo Club Lounge David Boeddinghaus

New Orleans Jazz Museum Leroy Jones

St. Paul’s UCC Church Jamey St. Pierre Trio

The Jazz Playhouse Big Sam

THURSDAY, AUGUST 10

Apple Barrel Mark Appleford

Bamboula’s Sigrid and Zig Zags, Cristina Kaminis and the Mix, Wolfe John’s Blues

Bar Marilou Double Whiskey

Blue Nile Where Y’at Brass Band

Cafe Negril Piano Man ‘G’, Renee Gros Band

Carrollton Station Mahmoud Chouki

DMACS Paggy Prine, Pizza Man’s Fam Jam

Dos Jefes Mark Coleman Trio

Gasa Gasa Sunrot, Big Garden

Le Bon Temps Roulé The Soul Rebels

Mahalia Jackson Theater Snarky Puppy

New Orleans Jazz Museum Piano Hour

Polo Club Lounge John Royen

Rock n Bowl Geno Delafose

Spotted Cat Jumbo Shrimp Jazz The Jazz

Playhouse Brass-A-Holics

Toulouse Theatre The Shindellas

FRIDAY, AUGUST 11

Bamboula’s The Jaywalkers, Fully Dressed Po

Boys, Big Soul, Bettis and 3rd Degree

Blue Nile The Caesar Brothers, Kermit Ruffins

Bombay Club Coyote Anderson

Carrollton Station The Kurt Loders

Cafe Negril Sweetie and the Boys, The Villains

Columns Hotel Mahmoud Chouki

DMACS Marsh Fire

Gasa Gasa Tanner Usrey

House of Blues

Whirl Band

Jimmie Vaughan & The Tilt-A-

New Orleans Jazz Museum Slugger

NOPSI Hotel Matt Lemmler

Polo Club Lounge John Royen, Robin Barnes

Rock n Bowl Neutral Snap, Few Blue

Spotted Cat Big Fun Brass Band, Chris Johnson Band

Tipitina’s Honey Island Swamp Band

Tropical Isle Bourbon Rhythm & Rain Trio

SATURDAY, AUGUST 12

Bamboula’s Stephen Brashear quartet, Jack pritchet ribeye marinates, Johnny Mastro blues, Paggy Prine

Blue Nile George Brown Band, Chris Cotton

Cafe Negril Jason Neville Funky Soul Band, New

Orleans Rug Cutters

Carrollton Station Gitkin

DMACS Dale Dolese, Sean Hobbes

Lakefront Arena Mo’nique

Le Bon Temps Roulé SweetFunk

Polo Club Lounge Bean & The Boys, John Royen

Republic Yemi Alade

Rock N Bowl Bonerama

Roosevelt Hotel Leslie Martin

Southport Hall The Bald Dog Project

Spotted Cat Music Club Shake’em Up Jazz Band

The Jazz Playhouse The Nayo Jones Experience

Tipitina’s Don B. and Friends

Tropical Isle Bayou Club Fiddler & The Crossroads

Tropical Isle Bourbon Rhythm & Rain Trio

UNO Lakefront Arena Mo’Nique

SUNDAY, AUGUST 13

100 Men Hall Jimmy Robinson & Layla

Musselwhite

Bacchanal Wine Noah Young Trio, Tangiers Combo

Bamboula’s Eric Motel and Kinda Blue, Youse, Ed will blues 4 sale

Blue Nile Street Legends Brass Band, The Baked

Potatoes

Cafe Negril John Lisi & Delta Funk, Vegas Cola

DMACS Daniel Louis Goodwill

Gasa Gasa Elanore Swede, Byron Daniel

Howlin’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

Polo Club Lounge David Boeddinghaus

Swig & Swine Barbecue Mark Appleford

The Howlin Wolf The Grammy Winning Hot 8

Brass Band

Tropical Isle Bourbon Rhythm & Rain Trio

MONDAY, AUGUST 14

Apple Barrel Mark Appleford

Bamboula’s Jon Roniger band, The Melataun’s, Ed Wills blues 4 sale

Palmetto Bug Stompers, Treme Brass Band

MUSIC CALENDAR

DMACS Danny Alexander’s Blues Jam

Polo Club Lounge John Royer

St. Roch Tavern Bad Penny

Pleasuremakers, Brooks Forsyth

The Rabbit Hole EEK-A MOUSE

TUESDAY, AUGUST 15

Bambolula’s The Villians, Amber Rachelle and Sweet Potatoes, Andy J Forest Blues

Cafe Negril The Super-Most-Fantastic-BluesN-Such Jam

Gasa Gasa Will Roesner

Polo Club Lounge David Boeddinghaus

Smoothie King Center Snoop Dogg, Wiz

Khalifa, Too $hort & More Spotted Cat Smoking Time Jazz Club

Swig & Swine Barbecue Mark Appleford

The National WWII Museum Stage Door

Idol

The Rabbit Hole Rebirth Brass Band

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16

Apple Barrel Mark Appleford

Bamboula’s Walker and 3 finger slingers, 504 Goodies, Roule and queen

Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band

Cafe Negril Colin Davis, Higher Heights

DMACS Sam Price & Friends

New Orleans Jazz Museum Matt Booth &

Osama, will be stopping NOLA during his

Apple Barrel Mark Appelford

Bamboula’s Noah vicknair band, Fully Dressed

Po Boy, Les Getrex and Creole Cooking, Bettis and 3rd Degree

Blue Nile Kermit Ruffins, The Caesar Brothers

Cafe Negril Jamey St Pierre, Sweetie and the Boys

Carrollton Station Daria and the Hips Drops, Sweet Magnolia Brass Band

Columns Hotel Judith Owen

DMACS Aden Paul

Gasa Gasa Bug Bites, Jumprope

Howlin’ Wolf Juleser, Frailstate

Le Bon Temps Roule The Disco Delta Funk Tour

New Orleans Jazz Museum Ravee

Treesaksesakoon

NOPSI Hotel Matt Lemmler

Oak Wine Bar Or Shovaly Plus

Polo Club Lounge John Royen, Robin Barnes

Rock n Bowl Bucktown Allstars

Saenger Theatre Counting Crows

Spotted Cat Chris Johnson Band

The AllWays Lounge The New Orleans High Society Hour

Tipitina’s Billy Iuso

Tropical Isle Bourbon Rhythm & Rain Trio

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19

100 Men Hall Carolina Story

Bamboula’s Stephen Brashear quartet, Stephen Brashear quartet, Johnny Mastro blues, Paggy

Prine

Blue Nile George Brown Band, Gov’t Majik

Buffa’s Bar Buffas

Cafe Negril Jason Neville, John Lisi & Delta Funk

DMACS Jamey St. Pierre

House of Blues The Broken Hearts

Howlin’ Wolf Adrienne Iapalucci

Joy Theater Urban Trivia

Le Bon Temps Roulé George Duke Tribute

Project

Polo Club Lounge Bean & The Boys, John Royen

Rock n Bowl The Topcats

Roosevelt Hotel

Leslie Martin

The Jazz

Playhouse

The Nayo Jones

Experience

The National

WWII Museum

Stage Door Idol

Tipitina’s Rebirth Brass Band

Toulouse Theatre Bay Ledges

Tropical Isle Bayou Club Fiddler & The Crossroads

Tropical Isle Bourbon Rhythm & Rain Trio

SUNDAY, AUGUST 20

Bacchanal Wine Noah Young Trio, Tangiers

Combo

Bamboula’s Matt Rhody and Jasmine, Big Easy

Brawlers, Ed Wills Blues 4 Sale

Blue Nile Street Legends Brass Band, The Baked Potatoes

Buffa’s Some Like It Hot!

Cafe Negril Vegas Cola

DMACS Queta Cavalier

Felix’s BAM! BAM!

Howlin’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

Polo Club Lounge David Boeddinghaus

Swig & Swine Barbecue Mark Appleford

Tipitina’s Bruce Daigrepont

ropical Isle Bourbon Rhythm & Rain Trio

MONDAY, AUGUST 21

Apple Barrel Mark Appleford

Bamboula’s Bamboula’s Eric Motel and Kinda

Blue, Youse, Ed Will Blues 4 Sale

DMACS Danny Alexander’s Blues Jam

House of Blues Clutch

Polo Club Lounge John Royen

St. Roch Tavern Slow Motion CowboysDoyle

Cooper Jazz Band, Joe Gelini Band, Andy Forest

LAKESIDE2RIVERSIDE

COOLINARY NEW ORLEANS

Through August 31 | neworleans.com/coolinary

Experience some of the best food that New Orleans has to offer during the city’s annual COOLinary restaurant month. All throughout August, participating restaurants will be offering patrons unique multi-course menus with mouthwatering food at special set prices. There’s a large range of local restaurants taking part this year, from higher end establishments like Arnaud’s and Galatoire’s to neighborhood restaurants such as Reginelli’s and Bywater American Bistro, as well as different global restaurants including Shaya and Silk Road. Visit neworleans.com to see the full list of this year’s COOLinary-participating restaurants.

SATCHMO SUMMERFEST

August 5-6

satchmosummerfest.org

Satchmo Summerfest, the music festival dedicated to the legendary Louis Armstrong, will be returning to the New Orleans Jazz Museum this year. Enjoy live music by lots of terrific acts such as the Rebirth Brass Band, Kermit Ruffins, Charmaine Neville, John Boutté, Mari Watanabe, and many more. There will be plenty of delicious food on offer from establishments such as 14 Parishes, Café Dauphine, and Theaudric’s Real Clever Cuisine. There will be special events such as a performance on Esplanade Avenue, a jazz mass at St. Augustine Church followed by a second-line, and discussions with Louis Armstrong scholars.

WHITE LINEN NIGHT

August 5 | artsdistrictneworleans. com

The Arts District New Orleans organization’s popular fundraising event, White Linen Night, is back this year and will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. on the 300-600 blocks of Julia Street, as well as at the Contemporary Arts Center and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Attendees are welcomed to tour over 20 contemporary art galleries and institutions and view their new and current exhibits. While strolling, guests will also be able to enjoy food and drinks, as well as art-centered street activations.

White linen outfits are encouraged and proceeds will directly benefit the Arts District New Orleans.

FROM TOP: COURTESY LUKE RESTAURTANT; ROBERT WITKOWSKI (2)

LAKESIDE2RIVERSIDE

RED DRESS RUN

August 12 | neworleanshash.com/reddressrun

Hosted by the New Orleans Hash House Harriers, New Orleans’ popular Red Dress Run is an annual two-mile charity run that encourages participants of all genders to take part while wearing red dresses or other red attire. The race always takes place on the second Saturday in August and all proceeds raised from the event go towards local charities. The event will begin at around 9 a.m. and the run will kick off from Crescent Park. Beer will be available all throughout the event, and there will also be food and live music by PaperChase.

DIRTY LINEN NIGHT

August 12 | dirtylinen.org

The 20th annual Dirty Linen Night, which is hosted by the Royal Streets Art District, will run from 6 to 9 p.m. on the 300 to 1100 blocks of Royal Street. Originated as a satirical take on White Linen Night, Dirty Linen Night will have attendees tour through different shops and art galleries in the French Quarter. Some of the event’s participating businesses will include Antieau Gallery New Orleans, Rodrigue, Trixie’s Burlesque Boutique, Dark Matter Oddities & Artisan Collective, Fleur D’ Orleans, and Boutique de Vampyre’s Apothecary. Food, cocktails, and raffle tickets will also be available.

DISCOVER FRESH

Farmers’ markets in NOLA are a one-stop shop for organic, local, and healthy foods

By Celeste Turner

On this bright Sunday morning, families and friends gather at the Crescent City Farmers’ Market in City Park to find a variety of locallygrown produce, fresh breads, baked goods, cut flowers, Louisiana seafood, fresh dairy, pastureraised meats, handcrafted meals, and more. Shopping at farmers’ markets has become a favorite pastime, where you can bring your children and pets, access fresh local foods, and reconnect with neighbors, local farmers, and food artisans.

“At Crescent City Farmers’ Markets, we are open all year round—rain or shine,” said Francesca Jones, Market Manager for Crescent City Farmers’ Market, a project of Market Umbrella, a non-profit organization. “We currently have three markets weekly in the New Orleans area: Tuesdays are Uptown at Uptown Square, Thursdays in Mid-City at Lafitte Greenway Plaza, and Sundays in City Park at Tad Gormley Stadium. We are a food-only farmers market with about 20-30 vendors per market.”

Jones pointed out that these vendors which are farmers, fisherman, ranchers, dairies, bakers, and food makers are from within a 200mile radius and determine their own pricing.

“All vendors accept cash,” said Jones. “And we have our own token currency.”

She explained that the $5 and $1 unit tokens can be purchased with credit/debit or food stamp cards. “For customers with EBT/ SNAP benefits, Crescent City Farmers Market will double your dollars for fresh fruits and vegetables,” said Jones.

In fact, the fresh produce sold at farmers markets may be cheaper than you think. “People don’t understand how good and inexpensive it is. You save on sales tax, and you are supporting local people,” said Charise Poché from Poché Farms in Independence, Louisiana. Poché has been a part of the Crescent City Farmers’ Markets for ten years. She indicated that the fruits and vegetables you buy at the farmers markets are the freshest and the tastiest because the fruits are allowed to ripen fully in the

NOLA FARMERS' MARKETS: OPEN RAIN OR SHINE

Crescent City Farmers’ Market (CCFM)

3 locations in NOLA

● Tuesdays (8 a.m. - 12 noon) Uptown Walk up Market at Uptown Square

● Thursdays (3 p.m. - 7 p.m.) Mid-City Lafitte Greenway Plaza

● Sundays (8 a.m. - 12 noon) City Park at Tad Gormley Stadium

French Market Farmers’ Market

2-48 French Market Place

● Daily (10 a.m. - 6 p.m.)

Gretna Farmers’ Market & Art Walk Pavilion at 300 Huey P. Long Avenue

● Saturdays (8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)

Ben and Ben Becnel’s Farmers’ Market

2 locations in Belle Chasse

● Mon - Sat (8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.) Sundays (10 a.m. - 4 p.m.) 7020 Hwy 23

● Mon - Sun (8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.) 14977 Hwy 23

Westwego Farmers & Fisheries Market

484 Sala Avenue in Westwego

● Farmers’ market (2X/month) 1st and 3rd Sundays

● Monthly free music concerts with food/ crafts vendors (on Fridays once/month)

field and then brought directly to the market. “Our tomatoes are never refrigerated,” Poché extolled. “You can’t beat a real vineripened tomato.” For Poché, tomatoes, berries, cucumbers, and squash are particularly plentiful at the end of June. Such seasonal foods such as the perennial fruits: peaches, blackberries, blueberries, and figs are the main attraction at these markets during the summer.

Purchasing locally-grown foods also helps support local food producers including Poché Farm and Huckleberry’s Creamery. “At the Crescent City Farmers’ Market, we do get a good number of repeat customers,” said Chris McCarty, owner of Huckleberry’s Creamery located in Clifton, Louisiana. “We sell goat milk, chocolate, and whole, feta goat cheese, and our best seller, cheesecake made with goat products.” McCarty sets up his booth at the Thursday and Sunday markets in New Orleans, and in Covington on the Northshore on Saturday. He also sells goat milk soaps, farm fresh chicken and duck eggs, as well as an assortment of marinated feta cheeses.

Another popular, food-only farmers’ market located on the Westbank is the Gretna Marketplace, which is open every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., rain or shine. Located at 300 Huey P. Long Avenue between Third and Fourth Streets, vendors set up booths of various food items including fruits, vegetables, flavored olive oils, cakes and cookies, as well as a designated kids’ arts and crafts table under the pavilion. On every second Saturday of the month, the Gretna farmers market includes an Art Walk which gives local artists and crafters an opportunity to display and sell their work.

“The Gretna Marketplace was started about 18 years ago—two months after Hurricane Katrina,” said Monica Naquin, a native of Gretna, who is one of the

marketplace coordinators. “This has been a meeting spot for neighbors to gather after the hurricane and stay in touch. The farmers’ market is an easy and convenient way to get fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, plants, fresh cut flowers, some prepared foods, as well as some other things that may be out of ordinary.”

Buying directly from local farmers not only contributes to the local economy, but it can also help preserve agricultural green space. Most food found at the farmers’ market is minimally processed, transported shorter distances, and generally grown using methods of little impact on the earth. “Our fruits and vegetables are picked right before market and are high in nutrients,” stated Poché. “We are environmentally aware. The carbon footprint of a local farmer is so

small.”

You can also bring your recyclables to the Sunday Crescent City Farmers’ Market. An independent recycling service called REALcycle has set up a public drop off. “We are a recycling organization faithful to earth,” said Ryan Singer, co-owner of RealCycle. “You can dispose of food waste, glass, aluminum, and cardboard every Sunday.”

As you look forward to the seasonal citrus fruits in January and the creole tomatoes in July, a regular trip to the farmers’ market is one of the best ways to shop healthy, stay connected to your communities, and give back to local food producers, all the while experiencing a small-town life in the midst of this wonderful big city.

$20 & UNDER Give It a S'whirl!

By Kim Ranjbar

Local spots giving new life to the soft serve sensation.

Are you a sucker for cool, creamy whipped ice cream swirled to dizzying peaks atop a cake cone? Have you perfected the art of lapping and slurping the ripples of chocolate or vanilla (or both), carefully timing your consumption to prevent both meltage and brain freeze? Do sheer pleasure and nostalgia outweigh the added thickeners and preservatives typically found in this childhood treat? If the answer to those questions are a resounding, “Yes,” you, my friend, are one of us—a lover of soft serve ice cream.

Invented almost a century ago, soft serve ice cream is one of those ephemeral foodstuffs best enjoyed on-the-spot like cotton candy or a corn dog hot out of the fryer. Often found at fairs and carnivals, roadside stands, and fast-food joints, it's the kind of dessert made to be eaten right now, as anyone who's stashed a DQ shake in their freezer “for later” can attest.

While we can always hit up McDonald's for a spur-of-the-moment swirl, that is if the machine at the Golden Arches location nearest us isn't “McBroken” (mcbroken.com), there's been a trend over the past decade where hip, new restaurants and shops around town are featuring soft serve for dessert. For die-hard lovers of the cool and creamy swirl, it's been nothing short of a boon.

It's hard to believe Mason Hereford's famed Turkey and the Wolf, has been open for nearly seven years, but it was his childlike genius and munchie-driven brilliance that seemed to kick start the nostalgia for swirl here in New Orleans. Sure, folks head into the Jackson Avenue stand for the spicy collard green melts, towering fried bologna and potato chip sandwiches, and crunchy, buried-in-blue-cheese-dressing wedge salads, but they shouldn't head back out without some soft serve. Other than tahini and date molasses drizzle or just colorful sprinkles, the vanilla soft serve toppings at Turkey and the Wolf change with Hereford's (and likely the rest of the staff's) whims, as things like key lime pie “crunk chunks,” and cheddar crumbles with fried apples have made the cut. Regardless of the topping, Turkey and the Wolf's soft serve is pricier than most, but it typically won't rise over the $6 mark.

Fresh from the sea—pardon, on the scene—is the oh-so socially and environmentally-conscious Wonderland & Sea on Tchoupitoulas Street. The cool corner spot is co-owned by trio Taylor Floy Hoffman, Jonathan Rhodes, and Chef Joel Brown who do their damnedest to offer an affordable menu using largely local ingredients, serving “just food and nothing less.” They also believe in equitable employment (ie. paying a living wage) and a triple-threat of universal kindness. Even if it didn't feel good to be part of their warm-fuzzy, free to be you and me-vibes, their wonder-bird fried chicken thigh sandwich or sweet potato biscuits are bound to bring many happy returns. Though other flavors may enter the rotation in the future, right now Wonderland & Sea is keeping it simple with vanilla soft serve on a cake cone for only two bucks. They tack on another $2 to put it in a bowl (probably to pay for the environmentally-safe dish or twice the ice cream?), but either way it's still a dessert that won't hurt.

Soft serve gets a smidge pricier at Mochinut an international chain which has, at long last, made its way to Louisiana. Whether you visit the store in Metairie, or their latest in Harvey, the California-born franchise offers that unique mashup of Japanese mochi and donuts to create a chewy, bubbly mochinut, a pastry which was first dreamed into being out in Hawaii. Also on the menu at Mochinut is the Korean dog, a corn dog-like creation using a rice flour batter with fun additions including mozzarella cheese, Doritos, and fried potatoes. If that isn't enough to draw you in for a bite, Mochinut also features soft serve ice cream. “Joy” is one of four flavors (vanilla, honey butter, strawberry lemon, or melon) swirled into a chocolate waffle cone, “bliss” is the same, but bowl-bound and festooned with

boba, and “delight” is a cool swirl in a mochinutshaped bowl which includes a mochinut of your choosing—and it's obviously the most expensive ringing in at $7. But hey, it's soft serve with a donut.

Speaking of donuts, have you had the cafe sua da creamfilled donut at Dough Nguyener's? Recently opened in Gretna, this cafe is the latest from restaurateur Betty Archote (nee Nguyen), purveyor of Huey P.'s Pizzeria and Thanh Thanh. Along with specialty coffee drinks, baked goods, and a large menu with both breakfast and lunch offerings (Louisiana Gulf shrimp toast with crab meat anyone?), the 5th Street spot also features Blue Bunny vanilla “swirl freeze,” a.k.a. soft serve. Get it plain or make it both crunchy and colorful with cereal “mix-ins,” such as Fruity Pebbles or Cinnamon Toast Crunch, top it with sprinkles, M&Ms, or Oreos—or both. Just be wary, a soft serve at Dough Nguyener's will set you back $6 plus 85¢ for each additional topping.

Finally, the last place one might expect to find soft serve ice cream is a taco joint, but surprises abound at the 1940s-era gas-stationturned-restaurant Galaxie Tacos on St. Claude Avenue. Business partners Patrick Finney and Ken Jackson launched the Bywater stand almost four years ago serving cocktails and cuisine inspired by the cuisine they experienced on trips to Oaxaca and Mexico City. Not only do they make fresh tortillas (with masa imported from Mexico) filled with mouth-watering barbacoa beef cheek or adobo pork shoulder, they also sweeten the deal with some incredibly unique soft serve. Some of the more typical combos include vanilla and blueberry, mango, or Ponchatoula strawberry, but they also kick the flavor notch way up with cane syrup, mamey sapote (a large berry tree native to Mexico and Central America) and Oaxacan-spiced peanuts. Galaxie's incredibly exotic soft serve will set you back $4, but it will be worth every bite.

For lagniappe, and because it deserves an honorable mention, if you happen to grab a burger or some thinfried catfish at one of the GNO's seven New Orleans Hamburger & Seafood locations, you get a cone of vanilla soft serve (served yourself) for free. Now, I'd buy that for a dollar.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: COURTESY NEW ORLEANS HAMBURGER AND SEAFOOD; GALAXIE TACOS; KIM RANJBAR (2); TURKEY AND THE WOLF

New Orleans Hamburger and Seafood

Mochinut

Galaxie Tacos

Dough Nguyeners

Turkey and the Wolf

RESTAURANT GUIDE

AMERICAN

Boulevard American Bistro serves incredible American and wood-fired grilled dishes in Metairie, Elmwood, and Covington from their scratch kitchen while providing great service. Enjoy tasty appetizers including deviled eggs and amazing entrees such as the Hawaiian ribeye. Multiple Locations, boulevardbistro.com

Boutique de Vampyre’s Apothecary caters to both mortals and the vampires that live among us. The restaurant uses fresh ingredients from its own garden and offers daily tarot card readings. Their whole food and drink menu is “to die for.” 725 St. Peter St., 504-766-8179, vampireapothecary.com

Crescent City Steaks, Louisiana’s oldest familyowned steakhouse, has been serving some of New Orleans’ finest steaks and seafood for four generations. The restaurant’s steaks, which are sizzled in butter, are to die for. Their additional seafood menu featuring lobster tail is also amazing. 1001 N. Broad St., 504-821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com

Daisy Dukes has six locations across the New Orleans area. They are known for their delicious Cajun, Southern, and breakfast dishes served until late night. Don’t forget one of their awardwinning Cajun Bloody Mary. Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com

Flamingo A-Go-Go is the place to “flamingle,” no matter the occasion. They have the largest courtyard in the Warehouse District. The bottomless option can’t be beat. Try Flamingo’s flatbreads and entrees, including the jerk tacos. 869 Magazine St., 504577-2202, flamingonola.com

Gattuso’s Neighborhood Restaurant, one of Old Gretna’s best neighborhood hangout spots, has

a mix of American bar food and traditional New Orleans dishes.They’ve been voted the best bar in the West Bank multiple times—so try their rum punch and whiskey sour. 435 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna, 504-368-1114, gattusos.net

Houmas House & Gardens has three restaurants ranging from casual sit-down spots to fine white tablecloth dining. While Dixie Café offers breakfast, lunch, and buffets, the Carriage House and Latil’s Landing are more upscale at part of the South’s oldest and most beautiful estates. 401336 LA-942, Darrow, 225-473-9380, houmashouse.com

Legacy Kitchen Steak + Chop is perfect for anyone looking for a steakhouse on the Westbank. While the whole menu is mouthwatering, the restaurant’s signature steaks include filets, ribeyes, and a massive tomahawk steak. 91 Westbank Expy #51, Gretna, 504-513-2606, legacykitchen.com

Luke combines elements of Franco-German brasseries with New Orleans flavors. Check out the restaurant’s famous raw bar, which offers Gulf oysters, jumbo shrimp, Maine lobster, and more. If you’re not in a steak mood, go for their burger bar or fried seafood platter. 333 St Charles Ave., 504378-2840, lukeneworleans.com

New Orleans Vampire Cafe offers a menu with creative American dishes including seared duck breast, blackened alligator, and lamb stew. Order the Dracula burger, a blood bag cocktail, and the Blood Orange Creme Brûlée for a truly spooky dinner. 801 Royal St., 504-581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com

Nola Steak, located in Boomtown Casino & Hotel, is perfect for anyone who wants a good steak after playing the slots. The restaurant serves a variety of meat cuts and entrees such as blackened redfish. Try out their Sunday brunch

with great food and mimosa specials. 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, 504-805-5596, boomtownneworleans. com

Spudly’s Super Spuds is a must visit for anyone who loves creatively-made baked potatoes. At Spudly’s, a baked potato is a meal. They’ve had 40 years of experience to perfect their many different potato dishes, burgers, and sandwiches.

2609 Harvard Ave., Metairie, 504-455-3250, spudlys.com

The Steakhouse at Harrah’s is where New Orleans flavors and steakhouse classics meet in an elegant dining experience. The restaurant offers flame-grilled filet mignon and ribeye, decadent seafood, and an award-winning wine menu. 8 Canal St., 504-533-6111, caesars. com

Voodoo Chicken and Daiquiris has three locations all across the French Quarter. Enjoy the restaurant’s signature deep-fried chicken, Natchitoches pies, po-boys, gumbo, and giant refreshing fresh fruit daiquiris at their walk up bar. Multiple Locations, voodoochickenanddaiquirisnola.com

ASIAN

Asia brings together both classic Vietnamese and Chinese dishes in the Harvey’s Boomtown Casino & Hotel. Try their flavorful pho, sweet and sour chicken, crab rangoons, shaking beef, tofu vegetables, and more—all at a good price. 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, 504-366-7711, boomtownneworleans.com

TD Seafood & Pho House

Mikimoto in Mid-City has some of the freshest and most inventive sushi in town. Their signature rolls such as the lobster tempura and Mikimoto special, are always a hit, but their chicken udon and Mai Thais are just as great of a choice. 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-488-1881, mikimotosushi.com

TD Seafood & Pho House serves deliciously authentic Vietnamese cuisine and spicy boiled seafood. This casual eatery on the Westbank features varieties of pho and an inhouse speciality—crawfish boiled with garlic butter or Khong sauce. 1028 Manhattan Blvd, (504) 302-1727, tdseafoodphohouse.com

BARS WITH GREAT FOOD

Alto Rooftop Bar provides immaculate service and views of New Orleans from atop of the Ace Hotel.

RESTAURANT GUIDE

Take a dip in the pool or cool off with craft cocktails in the sun. Small bites include chicken wings, a caprese panini, and andouille en croûte. 600 Carondelet St., 504-900-1180, acehotel.com

Bar Marilou is a beautiful French-style bar on the side of the Maison de la Luz hotel. Enjoy the enchanting atmosphere while indulging in delicate appetizers and creative cocktails such as the Oaxacan with the devil. 544 Carondelet St., 504814-7711, barmarilou.com

Buffa's Bar & Restaurant is a classic New Orleansstyle bar that offers a mix of Cajun/Creole dishes and American classics that’s been perfecting their cocktails and cuisine since 1939. Check out their schedule as they host live music performances every Wednesday through Monday. 1001 Esplanade Ave., 504-949-0038, buffasbar. com

JB’s Fuel Dock is the perfect place to eat pizza and take in the views overlooking Lake Pontchartrain. There are many salads and Neapolitan pizzas to choose from such as the garlic and red pepper or the three cheese Italian. 126 S. Roadway St., 504-510-2260, jbsfueldock.com

Le Bon Temps Roule is one of the best neighborhood bars Uptown. The variety of delicious burgers and sandwiches, plus the signature Bloody Marys can’t be beat. The live music and late-night grub makes it a fan favorite. 4801 Magazine St., 504-897-3448, lbtrnola. com

Peacock Room is an elegant cocktail bar perfect for a romantic date night. Located in the Kimpton Hotel Fontenot, it offers tasty bites such as blue cheese stuffed dates and prosciutto. Check out their live music and nightly specials. 501 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-324-3073, peacockroomnola.com

Tracey’s Original Irish Channel Bar is the place to be during St. Patrick’s Day or any other day. This popular sports bar has more than 20 television screens and hundreds of beer selections in addition to their delicious seafood options including crawfish galore. 2604 Magazine St., 504-8975413, traceysnola.com

The Jimani is the place to be during any big sporting event as it’s been one of New Orlean’s favorite sports bars for 40 years. The French Quarter bar, open seven days a week, serves beer and Jell-O shots plus burgers, po-boys, pizza, and Chicagostyle hot dogs. 141 Chartres St., 504-5240493, thejimani.com

The Marsh Room Patio Bar and Grill is one of Metairie’s newest and funkiest spots for live music and entertainment, sports, and good food. Menu items include steaks, sandwiches, quesadillas, marsh fries, and Southwest chicken eggrolls. 4740 Rye St., Metairie, 504-571-5733, facebook.com/ marshroom

The Garage is a great place to have a good time in the French Quarter located just steps off of Bourbon street. The night club hosts live music events, sells CBD and massive “fish bowls,” in addition to their menu of tasty New Orleans dishes. 810 Conti St., thegaragemusicclub.com

Stumpy's Hatchet House is a place where you can gather with friends and enjoy hatchet throwing for any occasion. When you’re done tossing, you can try some snacks and bites including nachos, pizza, hot dogs, popcorn, and more. 1200 Poydras St., 504577-2937, stumpyshh.com/neworleansla

CAFÉ

Cafe Amelie is perfect for your next date night with their comfortable, yet elegant, environment, as well as beautifully prepared meals, wines, and craft cocktails. Offering a unique twist on Louisiana classics, their shrimp and grits, muffalettas, and gumbo, are all stellar options. Their courtyard is also a lovely spot to enjoy their daily brunch. 900 Royal

Street, 504-412-8065, cafeamelie.com

Carmo is a New Orleans-based tropical restaurant committed to feeding great food to vegans and omnivores alike. The exquisite combination of flavors makes healthy eating easy. Start off with the pão de quejo and then try one of the restaurant’s salads such as the Burmese tea leaf. 527 Julia St., 504875-4132, cafecarmo.com

Jimmy J’s Café is a funky French Quarter café beloved by tourists and locals alike. With its one-of-a-kind breakfast dishes such as the beignet sticks and Cochon eggs Benedict, to their

Peacock Room

house Bloody Mary’s, you’ll no doubt enjoy an outstanding brunch. Multiple Locations, 504-3099360, jimmyjscafe.com

The Vintage is a cozy café where customers can relax and indulge in beignets, bubbles, and bites. They have flatbreads, pressed sandwiches, and many other small dishes such as alligator poppers, yet the beignets are the particular favorite. 3121 Magazine St., 504-324-7144, thevintagenola.com

Willa Jean is a great place to go to in the Warehouse District for coffee, baked goods, and biscuits. Some of Willa Jean’s food items include BBQ shrimp toast, biscuits with jam, gravy, or fried chicken with Tabasco honey. 611 O’Keefe Ave., 504-509-7334, willajean.com

FRENCH

Café Degas, located in the Faubourg St. John, is one of New Orleans’ most romantic restaurants. The cafe specializes in incredibly made French dishes— also offering weekend brunch in their charming atmosphere. With steak frites and beautiful wine, there’s something for everyone. 3127 Esplanade Ave., 504-945-5635, cafedegas.com

King Brasserie + Bar is an elegant restaurant located in the Kimpton Hotel Fontenot with an extensive wine menu and unique small plates, as well as dinner options. Be sure to try the grilled octopus with bacon, sweet potato, and vadouvan. 521 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-324-3000, kingbrasserieandbar.com

ITALIAN

A Tavola Restaurant & Wine Bar is a lively spot in Metairie featuring modern Italian cuisine. They have a vast wine list, delectable cheese and meats, and Neapolitan-style pizzas. Catch their weekly specials and happy hour, which offers discounted drinks and small plates.

3413 Veterans Blvd., 504-577-2235, atavo.la

Domenica is a great place to go to in New Orleans for traditional Italian cuisine. Pick from customizable charcuterie boards and wines at this elegant spot. Their amazing Neapolitan-style pizzas come with different toppings such as clams, prosciutto, smoked pork, and meatballs. 123 Baronne St., 504-6486020, domenicarestaurant.com

Italian Pie has been whipping up delectable American Italian food since 1992. The Uptown restaurant makes some of your favorite Italian dishes, including gourmet calzones, salads, ovenbaked sandwiches, and pasta plates such as lasagnas and ravioli. Multiple Locations, italianpie.com

Josephine Estelle mixes Italian recipes with southern flavors and is open for breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner. The restaurant is helmed by James Beard Award-nominated chefs Michael Hudman and Andy Ticer and features beautifully selected wines and cocktails. 600 Carondelet St., 504-930-3070, josephineestelle.com

Mosca’s Restaurant is one of the best-known Italian restaurants in Greater New Orleans and has been serving rustic Italian fare since 1946. All of the restaurant's entrees are served family-style from traditional spaghetti and meatballs to their Oysters Mosca. 4137 US-90 W., Westwego, 504-4368950, moscasrestaurant.com

PIZZA Domenica is a fun and stylish pizzeria including a full bar with locations Uptown, Mid-City, and in Lakeview. The restaurant’s Margherita, lamb agrodolce, white, and tutto de carne pizzas are perfect for sharing with friends. Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com

Venezia has been one of New Orleans’ go-to Italian restaurants since 1957. You’ll be impressed by any of their traditional Italian dishes or craft a customized pizza with a large variety of toppings including anchovies, veal, crawfish, feta, crabmeat, and more. 134 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-488-7991, venezianeworleans.com

LATIN

Alma Cafe is an award-winning Honduran restaurant in the Bywater. Alma serves breakfast all day, offering great dishes such as Pollo Chuco and avocado toast. While craft cocktails are available, you can never go wrong with Alma's mimosas or Bloody Mary’s. 800 Louisa St, New Orleans, eatalmanola.com

Empanola is the place to be for delicious and authentic South American empanadas. Head to either Magazine Street or Freret Street and experience the restaurant’s beef Argentina, spinach and artichoke, or chicken Peruvian empanada. Multiple Locations, empanolaempanadas.com

Tito’s Ceviche & Pisco, located on Magazine Street and St. Charles Avenue, brings the unique cuisine of Peru to the Big Easy. Expand your palate by trying a selection of ceviche dishes with delicious seafood such as Gulf shrimp and Gulf fish. Multiple Locations, titoscevichepisco.com

MEXICAN

El Gato Negro is a local, yet authentic, Mexican kitchen featuring fare from founder Juan Contreras’ family recipe book, including fajitas, burritos and tacos galore, and their extensive selection of signature drinks including their famous margaritas. Multiple Locations, 504-525-9752, elgatonegro.com

Felipe’s Mexican Taqueria has three locations around New Orleans. Walk up to the counter to grab a margarita and customize your own tacos, burritos, nachos, salads, quesadillas, and more with extra beans, rice, and salsas to enjoy. Multiple Locations, felipestaqueria.com

Juan’s Flying Burrito has been serving its Creole-influenced Mexican food to New Orleanians for over 25 years. While their extensive menu

includes plenty of mouth-watering options, their burritos, such as the gutter punk and the al pastor, are massive and delicious. Multiple locations, juansflyingburrito.com

Mr. Tequila’s menu includes authentic Mexican dishes along with Tex-Mex classics. Enjoy mouthwatering plates such as loco rice, the chimichanga plate, and the house speciality carne asada. Wash it all down with one of their jumbo margaritas. 5018 Freret St., 504-766-9660, mrtequilanola.com

Mucho Mas offers delicious and creative Mexican food Uptown. Treat yourself to meals from their weekend brunch, weekday lunch specials, and dinner. Try a hearty dish including BBQ birria tacos or shrimp empanadas and enjoy a cocktail such as a classic margarita or Mexican martini. 8201 Oak St, muchomasnola.com

Tacos Del Cartel has some of the best tacos that can be found in all of Metairie. The casual atmosphere and killer craft cocktail menu make it a perfect spot for a casual meal, happy hour, or weekend brunch. Try the brisket tacos or tofu tostada. 2901 David Dr., Metairie, 504-3815063, tacosdelcartel.com

MIDDLE EASTERN

Gita Pita offers delicious Middle Eastern fare on both Canal and Baronne Streets. The restaurant’s pita wraps and bowls are filled to the brim with different selections such as shawarma, gyro, and falafel. Indulge in a side of Greek fries as well. Multiple Locations, facebook.com/GitaPitaCanal

Lebanon’s Café is one of the most popular Middle Eastern restaurants in New Orleans. Choose from a long list of authentic Lebanese appetizers, dips, and massive entreés including kabobs, falafel, shawarma, and rosemary lamb chops. This casual joint offers BYOB with no corkage fee. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-862-6200, lebanonscafe.com

Shaya is a James Beard Award-winning restaurant specializing in modern Israeli cuisine. Choose from delicious small plates and creative hummus dishes or go for larger options such as their steak or arayes 4213 Magazine St., 504-891-4213, shayarestaurant.com

NEW ORLEANS CUISINE

Annunciation is a great restaurant to visit for special occasions as it's housed in a magnificent turn of the century warehouse. Expect contemporary Cajun and Creole dishes including shrimp etouffee, fried oysters, and soft shell crab monica. 1016 Annunciation St., 504-5680245, annunciationrestaurant.com

Apolline serves modern Louisiana cuisine in a cozy double shotgun cottage. Delicious dishes include the crawfish bisque, panéed veal medallions, jambalaya dumplings, and seared diver scallops. Their brunch served Tuesday-Sunday includes their housemade boudin. 4729 Magazine St., 504-894-8881, apollinerestaurant.com

Café Normandie in the Higgins Hotel serves both French and New Orleans cuisine through elevated dining experience. Mouth-watering entrees include the Cajun paella, oyster and pork belly tacos, steak frites, and the confit duck cassoulet. 1000 Magazine St., 504-528-1941, higginshotelnola.com

Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop has been serving incredible Louisiana cuisine in its unassuming location since 2012. Boudin balls, fried shrimp po-boys, and their award-winning gumbo in several tasty variations, as well as many other NOLA favorites are on the menu. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, 504-835-2022, gumbostop.com

Commons Club New Orleans, in the Virgin Hotel, provides customers with contemporary American dishes with southern sensibility such as crawfish hushpuppies or the roasted Gulf shrimp. Their high end cocktails and weekend brunch specials just can’t be beat. 550 Baronne St., virginhotels.com

Crescent City Brewhouse is a charming microbrewery with great New Orleans food, oysters, live music, and even a courtyard. Try one of the restaurant’s house beers, wines, or “brewtails,” all of which incorporate the brewhouse’s original beers. 527 Decatur St., 504-522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com

Evangeline offers a beautiful French Quarter courtyard, craft beer, and delicious Louisiana cuisine using the best fresh ingredients. The menu features perfected Cajun dishes including alligator creole, southern-fried okra, and grilled redfish with crawfish pesto pasta.

329 Decatur St., 504-373-4852, evangelineneworleans.com

House of Blues New Orleans is the perfect place to enjoy yourself with everything from live music, gospel brunch, and tasty dishes. Dishes to enjoy include the fried chicken, baby back ribs, blackened salmon, and a range of tasty burgers. 225 Decatur St., 504-310-4999, houseofblues.com/neworleans

Lakeview Harbor is a terrific Lakeview restaurant that has been family-owned and operated for over 30 years. The expansive menu has steaks, seafood, po-boys, salads, the best burgers, and all kinds of appetizers. Check out their food truck too. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., 504-486-4887, lakeviewharbor.us

Lil’ Dizzy’s Cafe is a Tremé staple that serves up authentic Creole and classic Southern dishes such as seafood platters and catfish. Their rich, hearty gumbo and crawfish bisque are the best while their delicious po-boys will satisfy any appetite.

1500 Esplanade Ave., 504-766-8687, lildizzyscafe.net

Mandina’s Restaurant has been family-owned and bringing great food to New Orleans since 1932. The menu is Creole Italian and has amazing dishes such as turtle soup au sherry, veal parmesan and spaghetti, and fried seafood plates. 3800 Canal St., 504-482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com

Meril is a chic Chef Emeril Lagasse establishment offering a globally-inspired menu of small plates and shareable dishes as well as a full bar with craft cocktails. The wood-fired oysters, charcuterie board, and crispy Brussels sprouts are standout options. 424 Girod St., 504-526-3745, emerilsrestaurants.com

Mother’s Restaurant has been a popular hangout for New Orleanians since 1938 with their classic dishes and all day breakfast. Beloved local dishes such as red beans and rice, seafood gumbo, crawfish etouffee, debris and jambalaya are all offered. 401 Poydras St., 504-523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net

Lil’ Dizzy’s Cafe

Nice Guys Bar & Grill offers its own twist of classic New Orleans food. The bar’s oyster dishes are fan favorites and include chargrilled, Rockefeller, loaded, and ooh la la. Other great dishes include crawfish jalapeno bombs. 7910 Earhart Blvd., 504-302-2404, niceguysbarandgrillnola.com

New Orleans Creole Cookery serves amazing and traditional Creole cuisine not too far from Jackson Square. Sit outside in the restaurant’s beautiful courtyard and enjoy the pecan crusted redfish or the Chicken Pontalba. 510 Toulouse St. 504-524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com

Neyow’s Creole Café is a popular Mid-City spot that serves up classic New Orleans dishes with a modern twist in an unforgettable atmosphere. Their fried catfish, shrimp and grits, and stuffed bell peppers are all delicious options. 3332 Bienville St., 504-8275474, neyows.com

Neyow’s XL is a fine dining establishment located right next to Neyow’s Creole Café. In addition to authentic Creole dishes, the restaurant is known for its high quality steaks. Splurge on one of Neyow’s XL hurricanes or check out their excellent brunch. 3336 Bienville St., 504-503-1081, xl.neyows.com

Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro is a charming French Quarter wine bar that offers a selection of delicious small plates. The charcuterie board, cheese plate, and truffle fries are all popular appetizers, and their Creole Surf and Turf is cooked to perfection. 720 Orleans Ave., 504-5231930, orleansgrapevine.com

Parkway Bakery & Tavern first opened its doors in 1911 and it has been a NOLA staple ever since. People from all over the country come to the shop for its extensive list of famous po-boy sandwiches from fried seafood to hot sausage. 538 Hagan Ave., 504482-3047, parkwaypoorboys.com

Short Stop Poboys has been serving Metairie since 1966 and offers over 30 different kinds of po-boys from soft shell crab to their four meat special. Their debris-style roast beef is excellent, tender, and juicy every time. 119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie 504-885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com

SEAFOOD

Bon Temps Boulet Seafood is a fun neighborhood eatery with friendly service and tasty Southern dishes. They are known best to customers for their spicy, boiled seafood including their $25 dollar all you can eat crawfish, and chargrilled oysters. 4701 Airline Dr., Metairie, 504-8855003, bontempsboulets.com

Briquette has delectable modern and coastal meals such as snapper Pontchartrain, lamb shank, and Louisiana Redfish on the half shell. Located in the Warehouse District, Briquette features a unique open kitchen and full wine list. 701 S. Peters St., 504302-7496, briquette-nola.com

Legacy Kitchen's Tacklebox is one of three restaurants that are under the ownership of Legacy Kitchen. Tacklebox has an oyster bar, and a mix of Southern and seafood dishes including shrimp and grits and catfish pecan. Their seafood towers and Southern comfort food options can’t be beat. 817 Common St., 504-827-1651, legacykitchen.com

Middendorf’s Restaurant is a Louisiana seafood institution and has been serving up their famous thin-fried catfish for over 80 years. Located on the shores of lakes Pontchartrain and Maurepas, the views are as impressive as the seafood options such as the crawfish cakes. Multiple Locations, middendorfsrestaurant.com

Seaworthy celebrates all things seafood and puts an emphasis on using locally-sourced fish and game as well as sustainably harvested oysters. Dishes including lobster cocktail, scallop crudo, fish and chips, red snapper ceviche, and charbroiled oysters are available. 630 Carondelet St., 504-9303071, seaworthynola.com

FILM REVIEWS

By David Vicari & Fritz Esker

Barbie Oppenheimer

Writer-director Greta Gerwig, fresh off the back-to-back successes of Lady Bird and Little Women (both are worth seeing if you haven’t), ventures into the realm of the IP blockbuster with Barbie

Margot Robbie plays Stereotypical Barbie, who lives a life of bliss in the matriarchal Barbie Land with a variety of other Barbies and Kens. One Ken in particular (Ryan Gosling) is in love with her, but she doesn’t pay him much notice. Suddenly, Barbie becomes burdened with thoughts of mortality and other mysterious ailments (cold water from a shower, flat feet, etc.).

After learning that her melancholy is the result of a psychic link between her and a mother (America Ferrera) saddened by a distant relationship with her tween daughter (Ariana Greenblatt) and frustrated by her job at Mattel, Robbie’s Barbie journeys to the real world with Gosling’s Ken in tow. Panicked Mattel executives (led by Will Ferrell) try to capture Barbie and restore order. Barbie discovers the real world isn’t as kind to women as Barbie Land and Ken revels in the newfound respect he feels in the real world.

There are definitely some funny culture clash moments in Barbie (and the final gag of the film is great). But the second half of the

numbers. The speeches are unnecessary. Even the most vapid Ken or Barbie could get the gist of what Gerwig (who co-wrote the script with Noah Baumbach) is going for. The first time Gosling sings a Matchbox 20 song is amusing. The second time, not so much.

That said, there are also some moving moments in the film’s opening half: an interaction between Barbie and an elderly woman sitting by herself at a bus stop, a montage of a mother and daughter gradually drifting apart, and a scene where Barbie sits in a park and just observes people experiencing the full range of human emotions both good and bad.

Barbie is a mixed bag. It’s also been very nice to see how the internet, which can occasionally be used for good, turned the juxtaposition of Barbie and Oppenheimer opening on the same day into a meme and likely lured lots of people off their couches

Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, a biopic of J. Robert Oppenheimer, is a nonlinear, and sometimes pretentiously arty, but gripping story. The emotional core comes through, thanks, in part, to a great central performance by Cillian Murphy. Murphy is believable as a brilliant man, but he also perfectly conveys the inner turmoil this man has with the monster that he has created.

Although the movie is nonlinear, it does have three acts where each one focuses on a certain area of Oppenheimer’s life. Sure, scenes of his later years spill over to the early years, and vice versa, but it all comes together as a thought provoking whole.

The first act opens in 1926 and concentrates on Oppenheimer studying at the Cavendish Laboratory in Cambridge, and then at the University of Gottingen in Germany. When he returns to the United States, he teaches at the University of California, Berkeley. The second act has him recruited by U.S. Army General Leslie Groves (Matt Damon) to head the Manhattan Project in creating an atomic bomb. The final portion of the

movie deals with Oppenheimer’s guilt over helping unleash the atomic bomb after two A-bombs were used on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan, which ended World War II. Oppenheimer, advocating against any further development of nuclear bombs, is basically put on trial for his alleged ties to the Communist Party. Leading the charge to destroy Oppenheimer is a senior U.S. Atomic Energy Commission member, Lewis Strauss (Robert Downey Jr.)

The movie also gets into Oppenheimer’s relationship with a lover, Jean (Florence Pugh), his marriage to “Kitty” (Emily Blunt), and his affairs.

The film is directed and written for the screen by Nolan, based on the 2005 biographical book American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin that was written over a twenty-five year period. Many of Nolan’s previous movies (Following, The Dark Knight, Inception, Interstellar) play like intense fever dreams, and Oppenheimer is no exception.

One of the best sequences is the testing of the bomb. Ludwig Goransson’s eerie and continuous music score actually halts for a few moments as we see the initial flash and fiery eruption of the explosion in silence before the ferocious sound catches up to the blast wave. It’s a haunting moment in a movie that often plays like a thriller.

—David Vicari

BROOKE LAIZER AMY RUSSO LBJ

TALES FROM THE QUARTER

By Debbie Lindsey

Dinosaurs Still Roam

More and more, I see my life, even my recent past, as seemingly obsolete. Oh! I am fairly current and more than relevant today, yet much that is near and dear to me has become a thing of the past in the eyes of younger folks. And not just sentimental stuff but simple everyday, commonplace terms, phrases, and references that were second nature to me. I first noticed this a decade ago as my elevator humor caused a “duh” look among the other riders in the lift (there I go again—a term no one uses). Anyway, I thought myself clever with my, “Second floor: ladies’ apparel,” or “Fifth floor: household goods and appliances. Watch your step please.” That’s when I realized I had outgrown my hotel elevator audience— they were too young to have known that lady operators clad in snappy uniforms once controlled the elevator and its etiquette.

A few years back, in my book shop, I often had to take credit card info directly from a customer and when requesting the security code for the card, I would follow with, “And now we will share the secret hand-shake and your decoder ring will be mailed to you.” Then one day my two twenty-something customers paused, a bit confused, until one said to the other, “Oh! I’ll explain it to you later. I saw it in an old movie.” Also, I was beginning to notice a curious look when I would count back a customer’s change—they were now accustomed to a computerized register doing the math and flashing “change due.” Both ways achieve the same results, but mine required being able to count—a little motor/brain skill no longer widely used. At this rate adding two and two will soon require a calculator.

Does anybody remember phone numbers anymore? You know—have them stored in your head—your memory. It began with speed dial on my landline, and that was a slippery slope. Now our devices store and remember these for us. Is this healthy for our brains? Perhaps we shouldn’t overburden our gray matter with mundane stuff; yet, doesn’t our memory need the exercise? Then again, don’t we get enough of a work-out just trying to remember all those damn passwords and user names we are burdened with these days? To protect ourselves from identity theft, we’re told not to use the same ones for everything—screw that. They want my weird-ass identity (and all my neuroses), they can have it, and I say best of luck.

Another rear-view moment recently was the discussion with a young tourist, of my childhood road trips from Mobile (hometown) to New Orleans. They asked how long a drive that was, and I replied, “Well, before the Interstate, it was a four to five hour drive.” They just stared at me. I responded to that look, “Yes, I am that old.” For that look of near pity, just give someone under fifty your AOL email

address—@aol really freaks them out. God, I just wanna slap ‘em with a flip phone. Okay, with a degree of regret, I must fess up: I no longer have a burner phone (you get more street cred asking the Boost Mobile sales assistant for a burner). Fun fact: Guinness World Records lists Debbie Lindsey as the “Last Person on the Planet to Get a Cell Phone.”

When dinosaurs roamed, we had phones that remained attached to our houses. They did not fit in your pocket, or your ear, and they only accepted a human voice for communication. No typing notes, no viewing movies or TicToking, no breaking news. They still exist and are known as landlines, but their habitat is shrinking. You didn’t talk on them during dinner or when you had company. Only doctors and drug dealers had mobile phones, and they were big and looked like a walkie-talkie, also referred to as “the brick.” And it wasn’t that long ago that cell phones were not allowed and/or frowned upon at work. Now, you damn well better have a cell on you at all times for work related interactions. Times change; rules change.

The Good Ole Days never really existed. Racism went virtually unchecked, and women were kept in check. There was no LGBTQ, just a lot of lives lived in secret with unnecessary, unwarranted shame. Therefore, I am relieved for much that is gone and grateful for so many of today’s changes and advances. But much change is careless, profit driven, and cloaked in the disguise of progress. Replacing people (jobs) with self-serve check-outs, gutting the soul of a historic cottage, and placing digital tablets, cell phones, and e-books in the hands of children without at least showing them the beauty of a real book and the pleasures of a library. Change requires thought and care.

Admittedly I’m spoiled by the conveniences our current world provides. Do I find it easier to write this column from a device that allows me to edit, spell-check, research, attach, send, and make copies without carbon paper? Heck yeah. Do I find this piece of equipment to be a mine-field of rabbit holes and mindless distractions? Yes. Did I rail against digital cameras? Vehemently. Do I use my cell phone camera now? Constantly. I feel conflicted, like a sell-out. So I suggest to myself and others: compromise. Stay current, enjoy the perks, but take the time to dust off that vinyl, check-out that library book, get lost in the genius of classic films, and bake a batch of cookies from scratch.

The other day, I saw evidence of roaming dinosaurs. First, there was a young boy content with a real book. Then, a young woman was reading a newspaper. Later, a twenty-something sporting a Golden Girls T-shirt was loading film into her Minolta. Maybe we’re not extinct, just endangered.

Bar Guide

Alto (Ace Hotel)

600 Carondelet St.

504-900-1180

Babylon Sports Bar

2917 Harvard Ave., Suite A

504-324-9961

Bar Marilou

544 Carondelet St.

504-814-7711

Boot Scootin’ Rodeo

522 Bourbon St.

504-552-2510

Buffa’s 1001 Esplanade Av.

504-949-0038

Club 38

4132 Peters Rd.

504-366-7711

Crescent City Brewhouse

527 Decatur St.

504-522-0571

Evangeline

329 Decatur St.

504-373-4852

Fillmore New Orleans

6 Canal St.

504-881-1555

High Grace NOLA

733 St. Peter

504-218-5649

House of Blues

225 Decatur St.

504-310-4999

Lots A Luck Tavern

203 Homedale St.

504-483-0978

Martine’s Lounge

2347 Metairie Rd.

504-831-8637

Pal’s Lounge

949 N. Rendon St.

504-488-7257

Rosie’s on the Roof

1000 Magazine St.

504-528-1941

Stumpy’s Hatchet House

1200 Poydras St., Suite C

504-577-2937.

The Garage

810 Conti St.

The Marsh Room Patio Bar & Grill

4740 Rye St.

504-571-5733

The Metropolitan 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd.

504-568-1702

The Rabbit Hole

1228 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.

504-354-9709

The Vintage 3121 Magazine St.

504-324-7144

Tracey’s Original Irish Channel Bar

2604 Magazine St.

504-897-5413

Treme Hideaway

1234 Claiborne Ave.

504-301-4441

Tropical Isle Multiple Locations

504-523-1927

MICHELADA MIX-OFF

Located on top of the Ace Hotel, Alto is a chill spot to hang out with your friends. You can cool down with some of the bar’s signature cocktails like Calypso and Turkish Royale.

Babylon is a great place to watch football and listen to live music in Metairie. The bar also provides a homey atmosphere with reasonable prices on all of their drinks.

Bar Marilou has a sophisticated French-style atmosphere in a very beautiful location alongside the Maison de la Luz hotel. The bar offers plenty of wine, beer, and craft cocktails.

If you’re in the mood for country, Boot Scootin’ Rodeo is your place. This country bar plays good old music and serves cold beer and cocktails. Mechanical bull included.

Since 1939, Buffa’s has served authentic New Orleans fare, spirits, and live music. Feast on Buffa’s award-winning bratwurst jambalaya. Open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. every day, with local music Wednesday through Monday.

Located inside Boomtown Casino & Hotel in Harvey, Club 38 is the perfect VIP experience. Available through Boomtown’s mychoice® loyalty program, guests can enjoy complimentary food and drinks after signing up.

Enjoy live jazz performances, signature craft brews, and traditional Louisiana bites in the only microbrewery in the French Quarter. Crescent City Brewhouse offers courtyard and balcony dining.

Evangeline provides some of the best Cajun food that can be found in the French Quarter. Enjoy local craft beers and other drinks the restaurant offers like the strawberry blonde or the rum punch.

The Fillmore is a beautiful, state-of-the-art 22,000 square-foot entertainment space above Harrah’s Casino. While there for a night of live music, make sure to grab a cocktail in BG’s Lounge.

A cozy, upscale dive bar offering light bites, specialty cocktails, and friendly service in a chill, inclusive environment. In the heart of the French Quarter, stop in day or night for a sip while touring historic New Orleans.

The House of Blues offers one of the best nightlife experiences in all of NOLA. Choose from a long list of beers, wines, and more and jam out to one of the venue’s many live music events.

Lots A Luck Tavern is one of the best places in New Orleans to play bar games. Watch the next big football game while enjoying cold beer or some of the bar’s other refreshments.

Cold beer and other specialty drinks including frozen Irish coffee, cherry limeade, and frozen sangria await at Martine’s Lounge. Pop-ups are sometimes on-site to offer food.

Open from 3 p.m. to 3 a.m., Pal’s Lounge is one of New Orleans’ perfect late-night spots. Some of Pal’s most popular, and affordable, drinks include the gingerita, the watermelon mojito, and the bacon Bloody Mary.

Located atop of the Higgins Hotel, Rosie’s surrounds guests with World War II-era Americana. Cold beer and delicious small plates like fries loaded with brisket and bacon cheese curds are available.

Stumpy’s Hatchet House gives patrons the perfect opportunity to test their hatchet-throwing skills. Light snacks and refreshing drinks from Stumpy’s fully-stocked bar are available for a quick pick-me-up.

Enjoy all sorts of entertainment like live music and open mic nights at The Garage. In addition to a fully stocked bar, the venue offers tasty NOLA favorites such as gumbo and spicy beef yaka mein.

The Marsh Room is one of the best establishments to hang out at in Metairie. While sipping on your favorite drink, grab some bites such as cheese curds, steak, and the bar’s “Marsh burger.”

The Metropolitan is one of New Orleans’ premiere nightclubs. While partying with your friends, make sure to visit the multiple different bars located all around the large, two-story club.

The Rabbit Hole is a truly eclectic club that always provides a great night of fun. Enjoy the venue’s outdoor and indoor stages for live music, as well as The Rabbit Hole’s downstairs bar.

Indulge in the best of New Orleans’ bubbles and bites at The Vintage with a menu of gourmet beignets, bar bites, coffee, wine, and signature cocktails, Try a mix sips with a Bitter Good Morning, a boozy cold brew, or Espresso Yourself.

Beer lovers will be happy when they see Tracey’s six draught taps and over 100 bottles of different brands to choose from. The bar also serves delicious oysters, poboys, and more.

Treme Hideaway is one of New Orleans’ best kept secrets. Tucked away in the historic Treme neighborhood, locals can flock to this night club for R&B music, DJ sounds, and hot food.

Tropical Isle is a Bourbon Street staple that is beloved by both tourists and locals. The bar is best known for being the birthplace of the “hand grenade,” aka New Orleans’ most powerful drink.

DEADLINE: SEPT 8 | STREET DATE: SEPT 18

By Phil LaMancusa

Ball of Confusion or Kiss My Assets

Iwanna learn patience, and I wanna learn it right now.” That’s right, that’s my friggin’ mantra: “Patience: right now.”

I mean, how many things in my/your/ our everyday life conspire yes conspire to keep us from obtaining spiritual growth, peace, harmony, and all the other crap that it will take for us to be able to settle damn down and be simply “happy.” It’s like a conspiracy: from your phone alarm thinking that it’s tomorrow (or yesterday), to spell-check thinking you said f**k instead of flock, or your phone fielding a call from someone who wants to give your car “one more chance to renew its service warranty,” or the password that you’ve been using for six years being deemed invalid, so you need a new one with twelve or more letters including, but not limited to: “one upper case, one lower case, one numerical symbol, one weird at the top of the keyboard symbol, one of your pet’s names, the numerical equivalent of the last blood pressure that you had taken, and your mother’s maiden name” (now, “prove that you’re not a robot by picking out the telephone poles in this photo”).

You misplace your car keys, your Amazon package is porch lifted, you get a notice for jury duty, your favorite place to get coffee is closed (suddenly) on Mondays, and your new route to work includes three School Zones and two construction detours. Is the universe really trying to piss you off? Yes, it is.

Listen, the entire universe is locked in a battle of good against evil; it’s beside the point that evil is kicking our asses. We, as heroes, are being distracted from joining the struggle by forces that continue to distract us from participating in the conflict. Your landlord is selling the house that you’ve been renting, the air conditioning in the car just quit, your coworker just came down with COVID, and/ or your actions at work have now been considered “micro-aggressive” because you called someone an “a-hole” (because they are), and you’ve been sent by HR to a “sensitivity training” seminar.

In the normal, dysfunctional world, the way things work is that the boss gives the man a bad time, the man comes home and gives the wife grief, she then takes it out on the kid, the kid kicks the dog, and the dog bites a neighbor (me). The universe works the same way, but you’re above that you’ve found a ‘happy place” that helps you to reconnect with your center your spirit, your calm, your patience.

There’s conflict in the world: there’s war, real people are dying and displaced, and there’s hunger, disease, disruption, and despair. People are hurting, evil rides rampant, children are being gunned down, the government doesn’t care to, or is just too impotent to act.

Hunger, injustice, civil liberties, and socalled rights are being trampled on, and unnatural disasters that are mowing down people’s lives and property have become commonplace—global frickin' warming. Name it, we got it.

We’ve had a choice, and we’ve taken it. We can take mud up to our chins and, then, either swallow it or spit it out, and we’ve chosen to spit it out. We speak out, we vote, we act out, and we’re vocal in our views. We have values. Evil does not care. Peace, love, and understanding are fodder to be mowed down like the idealists before us, to be worn down, to be tested and bested. What do we do? We recharge and move the needle forward.

Everyone who believes in freedom and justice needs to recharge. My advice is to find your happy place and visit as often as possible. Early on, my happy place was wearing myself out with drugs, alcohol, and rocking ‘n’ rolling until I couldn’t see straight. But one quiet night, in a strange place, I looked up and saw a sky full of stars and found a real “happy place.” Now, when I feel disconnected from my patience and peace, I go to one of my happy places. I realize that I will never solve the world’s challenges and can only do my small part by being a good person, an example, and a revolution/evolution of one.

A happy place is not a place of distraction; it is a place where you find peace and strength within yourself returning to its normal high functioning level. Here are a few examples:

Take a long walk or hike, by yourself; speak to no one. Read a book about some protagonist’s adventures—one who uses wit to overcome malice. Go sit under a tree. Go for a swim. Make a pot of spaghetti sauce (enough for twelve). Go to a big store and peruse the aisles and wonder at the things people buy. Put on some quiet music and listen or sit still, let the crazy horses’ band of thoughts gallop wildly until they’re exhausted. Get down on your hands and knees and visit the small flowers that grow unnoticed. Watch bees and butterflies. Commune with your cat. Roam a museum and don’t analyze the works found there just enjoy looking. Go to a coffee house where you know nobody and have a tasty pastry. Take a nap. Recharge.

Sound simple? It’s not. Most times we’re being knocked about like a pinball in an arcade game, and it almost becomes reflex to keep thinking on our feet, nose to the grindstone, shoulder to the wheel, tacking into the wind, racing with the rats, and runnin’ with the devil. Go easy on yourself and everything will get done eventually. Concentrate your energy on the challenge of the moment. Namaste and all that nonsense, and, as Mister Natural says, “keep your sunny side up."