Latest Issue: September 2024 – LSU Preview

DINING • MUSIC • ENTERTAINMENT NIGHTLIFE

DINING • MUSIC • ENTERTAINMENT NIGHTLIFE

LSU PREVIEW LSU PREVIEW

Letter from the Publisher

Geaux Tigers. Roll Wave. College football is back. Enjoy the return of the gridiron with Andrew Alexander’s season previews and Joey Cirillo’s interview with Tulane’s new coach, Jon Sumrall.

Southern Decadence is celebrating its 52nd anniversary as NOLA’s wildest LGBTQ+ Labor Day weekend celebration. First-timers and veterans alike should be sure to read Reine Dugas’ riveting rundown.

For new students heading to local universities, Kimmie Tubré shares a useful survival guide to college life in the Big Easy. Sabrina Stone’s piece on New Orleans Public Library services is particularly useful for freshmen.

Finally, if you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen. Tabasco has been bottling Louisiana peppers for over 150 years from Avery Island. Emily Hingle reveals the fascinating history behind the world’s most famous hot sauce. –Josh Danzig, Publisher

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Josh Danzig

Creative Director: Robert Witkowski

Executive Editor: Burke Bischoff

Assistant Editor: Donald Rickert

Movie Editors: David Vicari, Fritz Esker

Contributing Writers: Phil LaMancusa, Debbie Lindsey, Kim Ranjbar, Burke Bischoff, Julie Mitchell, Sabrina Stone, Kimmie Tubré, Emily Hingle, Celeste Turner, Joey Cirilo, Jeff Boudreaux, Cynthea Corfah, Brooke Adams, Frances Deese, Arielle Gonzales, Amy Kirk Duvoisin, Michelle Nicholson, Donald Rickert, Andrew Alexander

Cover: QB Garrett Nussmeier courtesy Louisiana State University Athletics

Director of Sales: Jim Sylve

Photographers and Designers: Gus Escanelle, Emily Hingle, Robert Witkowski, Kim Ranjbar

Interns: Lily Goldberger, Dustin Godbey, Lillian Foster, Violet Bucaro, Mathilde Herbert, Grace Carmody, Marigny Beter

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TULANE'S SUNAMI

Will Tulane Football's Coach Jon Sumrall have Green Waves crashing on the rivals?

IT WAS OFFICIAL: After eight seasons, the Willie Fritz era at Tulane University was over. Behind the scenes, individuals were performing their due diligence. A short list had been curated,

and, five days later, on December 8, 2023,

The prestigious university inked a six-year deal with Troy University’s Jon Sumrall—Tulane’s next head football coach. The 42nd in their

Coach Sumrall spoke on his courtship: “In our profession, things come up and you have an idea something can come up, even ahead of the call. There was a lot of things that made sense for myself professionally and my family. From a professional standpoint: excitement, a commitment to playing high-level football, and there’s a family personal side to it to live in New Orleans. Just excited about what the whole picture would be.”

For the previous two seasons, Jon Sumrall, the former Kentucky linebacker turned coaching phenom, had led Troy to a formidable 23-4 record while racking up two back-to-back Sun Belt Conference Championships. The Trojan’s trophy case at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Troy, Alabama was boasting some impressive new hardware. Word was getting around that Coach Sumrall was the real deal. Prior to his hire, Troy had experienced three losing seasons. The turnaround was evident. This was a man who simply understood what it took to win. And winning was no longer the goal for the Green Wave—it was the expectation. Coach Sumrall has his work cut out for him. The football program he inherited alongside newly hired athletic director David Harris was eons ahead of the team he served on as co-defensive coordinator from 2012-2014. While Coach Sumrall cut his teeth under then-head coach Curtis Johnson, the Green Wave accumulated a total of 12 wins in three seasons, ultimately going 3-9 in 2014 before Sumrall returned to his native Alabama as the top defensive assistant under Neal

END OF AN ERA

Two seasons later in 2016, when Willie Fritz officially manned the helm at Yulman, he inherited a Tulane football team that had only seen two bowl games since 1999. Eight seasons later, at 54-47 and on the heels of an 11-2 regular season, he departed as the second-most winningest coach in Tulane’s vaunted 130 year history.

On December 3, 2023, a then 11-2 Tulane football team huddled once more, patiently awaiting their bowl game fate following a crushing defeat on their home field, Yulman Stadium, not even a

The impact is significant, the residual hangover freshly loomed like blanket coverage on a failed go route. A 2614 loss at the hands of a dogged Southern Methodist University Mustangs football team in the American Athletic Conference (AAC) Championship Game. The team settled in, flat screen televisions flickered on— coming to life. An eager, anxious silence was replaced with ESPN’s bowl selection broadcast.

During the broadcast, breaking news would reverberate throughout the college football world. The impossible to avoid, swirling rumors were true. Tulane football head coach Willie Fritz would be leaving New Orleans for its Gulf Coast counterpart as head coach of the Houston Cougars—an opening in a role perfectly tailored for his continued professional aspirations, as well as his life off the field: upgraded facilities, closer to family, and an offer he couldn’t, shouldn’t, and didn’t refuse. His tenure was ultimately punctuated by one of the most historic Cotton Bowl comebacks in college football history. Late in the fourth quarter, down 15, Michael Pratt-led Tulane scored 16 unanswered points in the final 4:03 of regulation to upset eventual #1 NFL Draft pick Caleb Williams and the University of Southern California Trojans. Olive green and sky blue confetti fell from the rafters onto the stunned crowd of 55,329 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. A victory the Tulane faithful will

“One of the great things is the culture of winning [at Tulane under Coach Fritz] has already started,” Coach Sumrall said. “The winning mindset is a part of what they were doing.”

THE JON SUMRALL ERA IS HERE “Winners win, and I’m a winner, and we’re going to win.” Jon Sumrall didn’t mince his words upon taking the podium for his introductory presser as Tulane’s head football coach. The moxy demonstrated from the former Sun Belt Conference Coach of the Year has permeated the fanbase. The same fanbase that, not even a year ago, was naturally and rightfully dejected upon discovering their beloved head coach was moving on when many believed they were only beginning to scratch the surface of something special in New Orleans. That now feels like another lifetime ago.

“We need [fans] at our games. We need them to show up and support our team,” Coach Sumrall said about the fans. “The crowd, the energy, and the stadium make a difference, and I don’t think there’s a better time to be a fan of and support Tulane football. You got a really good product on the field coaching-wise and player-wise, and, on top of it all, the experience at Yulman Stadium and on campus. What that experience is like and college football’s comradery and pageantry, it’s important for anyone who has an interest in Tulane to come and watch a really fun football team, not travel far, and do it in a cool venue. We need our fanbase to show up and be supportive.”

The emotional tides have turned. Make no mistake about it, the Green Wave are already rolling. It’s time for Coach Sumrall to turn that wave into a tsunami. It’s time to win.

PRETENDER OR CONTENDER?

Brian Kelly & LSU Try to Vault into the College Football Playoff

By Andrew Alexander

The first two years of the Brian Kelly era at LSU were quite similar. The Tigers lost to Florida State in the season opener, went 9-3 in the regular season, and defeated a Big Ten opponent in a meaningless January bowl game. Plus, Jayden Daniels was the quarterback of

This season, however, will look different. The Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback is in the NFL, and Kelly’s coaching staff features new coordinators on offense, defense, and special teams. The College Football Playoff has expanded to 12 teams, while the Southeastern Conference now has 16 teams, and legendary coach Nick Saban retired from Alabama.

The constant is Kelly, who came to LSU with a vision—rebuild a championship contender. He’s laid a solid foundation in his first two seasons, winning 20 games and revitalizing the program’s culture. Now it’s time to translate that progress into greater on-field success.

OFFENSE: ALL ABOARD THE NUSS BUS

The Tigers’ offense is under new leadership this year, with quarterbacks coach Joe Sloan and wide receivers coach Cortez Hankton being promoted to co-offensive coordinators. Their first task is following up one of the greatest offensive performances in school history with a new quarterback.

After waiting three years, redshirt junior quarterback Garrett Nussmeier will lead the Tigers this fall. Nussmeier’s lone collegiate start was in the ReliaQuest Bowl facing Wisconsin last January. Against the Badgers, Nussmeier showcased his acumen under center, throwing for 395 yards and three touchdowns while leading the Tigers on a 98yard fourth quarter drive to win the game. Mostly in mop-up duty, he’s thrown for 1,720 yards, 11 touchdowns, and seven interceptions in his career. Though unproven, there is lots of excitement surrounding the Tigers’ new quarterback this year. LSU lost numerous productive skill players from last season, but there’s always talent oozing from the receiver and running backs rooms in Baton Rouge. Kyren Lacy leads a receiving corps that is experienced, yet largely unproven in Baton Rouge. Lacy hauled in the third most receiving yards (558) and touchdowns (seven) last season, along with 30

receptions. Transfers CJ Daniels (Liberty) and Zavion Thomas (Mississippi State) join returning receivers Aaron Anderson and Chris Hilton looking to shine this season.

The Tigers’ stable of ball carriers features some savvy veterans and exciting young talent. Entering his sixth season, Josh Williams is the leading returning rusher from 2024, with 284 yards and five touchdowns last year. Fellow sixth year player John Emery Jr. also returns, hoping to finally have that breakout season. Kaleb Williams showed flashes of running nasty last year and could emerge as the bell cow back.

LSU’s biggest strength on this side of the ball will be the guys in the trenches. The Tigers’ offensive line has loads of experience and even more talent, with four returning starters. Juniors Will Campbell and Emery Jones Jr. are likely the best offensive tackle tandem in the country. This group could go down as one of the best offensive lines in school history.

Garrett Nussmeier

DEFENSE: TIME TO GET THAT SWAGGER BACK LSU’s defense was historically bad last season. As a result of the ineptitude, Brian Kelly overhauled his defensive staff in the offseason. Blake Baker returns to LSU, this time as the defensive coordinator, after leading the Missouri defense the past two years. He previously served as LSU’s linebackers coach in 2021. Baker is joined by several new defensive position coaches, charged with reinvigorating a once fearsome unit.

The centerpiece of LSU’s defensive rebuild is linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. An elite pass rusher, Perkins has terrorized opposing offenses the past two seasons, recording 147 tackles, 13 sacks, and a team leading 26 tackles for loss. He’ll be joined by linebackers Greg Penn, LSU’s second leading tackler from 2023 (89), and Whit Weeks, who led all freshmen in tackles (49) last season.

LSU’s defensive line features experience, with senior tackles Jacobian Guillory and Jalen Lee anchoring the middle and defensive ends Sai’vion Jones and Bradyn Swinson on the edge. Sophomore end Da’Shawn Womack is a breakout player candidate. Production, however, was an issue last season, and the run defense was abysmal. Quality depth is also a concern. New defensive line coach Bo Davis has his work cut out for him this year.

For as bad as the run defense was last season, the pass defense was even worse, ranking near the bottom of college football. Was it lack of experience, dearth of talent, or poor coaching? Probably a combination of all three. Safety Major Burns, who led the team in tackles (93), returns, alongside Sage Ryan, sophomore cornerbacks Ashton Stamps and Javien Toviano, and transfer safety Jardin Gilbert (Texas A&M). If anyone can help resurrect DBU, it’s returning defensive backs coach Corey Raymond, who previously led this unit for over a decade.

PREDICTION

Nine regular season wins will no longer suffice for Kelly. His program must take the next step toward championship contention in year three. That starts with winning at least 10 games in the regular season. With the expansion of the College Football Playoff to 12 teams, the difference between nine and 10 regular season wins is more important than ever. In the last five normal regular seasons (not counting 2020), five or more teams finished ranked in the top 12 with two losses.

This does not feel like a championship year but instead maybe “the year before the year.” Heading into year three, Kelly has few excuses to not field a contender. The roster is comprised largely of his recruits, he has a new staff, and the playoff field has expanded. It’s time for Kelly and the Tigers to ascend back into the upper echelon of college football.

Jyaire Brown

Kyren Lacy

LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY 2024 SEASON SCHEDULE

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 VS USC 6:30 PM, ABC

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 VS NICHOLLS 6:30 PM, SEC NETWORK+ /ESPN +

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 @ SOUTH CAROLINA 11 AM, ABC

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 VS UCLA TBA

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 VS SOUTH ALABAMA 6:45 PM, SEC NETWORK

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5 BYE WEEK

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12 VS OLE MISS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19 @ ARKANSAS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26 @ TEXAS A&M TBA

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9 VS ALABAMA TBA

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16 @ FLORIDA TBA

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23 VS VANDERBILT TBA

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30 VS OKLAHOMA TBA

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 SEC CHAMPIONSHIP *If Qualified

RIDING A NEW WAVE

Coach Jon Sumrall Ready to Extend Tulane’s Golden Era

By Andrew Alexander

Capped off by an unprecedented two-year run, in which the program soared to new heights, 23 wins, a conference title, and Cotton Bowl victory, the Willie Fritz era is officially over.

With Tulane firmly established as one of the premier Group of Five programs in college football, the Green Wave now turn to former

coach

to continue building on the momentum Fritz created in Uptown New Orleans.

Sumrall joins Tulane as one of the most successful young coaches in college football. Oddly, the 42-year-old Huntsville, Alabama native is also Tulane’s 42nd coach in program history. The former Tulane co-defensive coordinator (2012-14) led Troy to a pair of Sun Belt Conference championships and a 23-4 record during his two years with the Trojans.

Returning to New Orleans, Sumrall inherits a much more advantageous situation than what his predecessor took over. The program’s success is attracting impressive talent like never before, and the conference is more wide open than ever. With the departure of four of the American Athletic’s heavyweights in the past two years (Cincinnati, Houston, Central Florida, and Southern Methodist), there have never been fewer roadblocks for the Green Wave to perennially dominate the conference and maybe eventually earn a spot in the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff one day.

OFFENSE

Tulane’s offensive attack will be led by new coordinator Joe Craddock, who coached under Sumrall at Troy. Craddock brings years of experience to the role, previously also serving as offensive coordinator for former AAC rival SMU, as well as Arkansas. At SMU, Craddock revitalized the Mustang offense, which finished last in scoring in college football the year prior to his arrival and rose to 12th in the nation by his third season.

Craddock is joined by several new skill players from the transfer portal, including former five-star high school quarterback Ty Thompson. Serving primarily as a backup the past three seasons at Oregon, Thompson threw for 456 yards and six touchdowns in Eugene. Thompson will challenge redshirt junior Kai Horton for the quarterback position this fall. Horton served as Michael Pratt’s backup the past few seasons and threw for 485 yards and three touchdowns last year.

The Green Wave welcomed a trio of transfer receivers, all former highly ranked recruits. Mario Williams (Southern California), Shazz Preston (Alabama), and Khai Prean (LSU) join Tulane’s leading returning receiver Yulkeith Brown in New Orleans. Last season, Brown hauled in 28 catches for 328 yards and touchdowns. Williams is the most accomplished of the transfer receivers, with 104 receptions, 1,316 yards, and 11 touchdowns over three years at USC and Oklahoma, but all three have yet to truly live up to the lofty expectations coming out of high school.

In the Tulane backfield, American Athletic Conference Rookie of the Year Makhi Hughes returns after an electric inaugural collegiate campaign. Hughes rushed for a conference best 1,378 rushing yards with seven touchdowns. He’s joined in the backfield by Shaadie Clayton-Johnson.

DEFENSE

At Troy, Sumrall’s two teams were known for their ferocious, stingy defenses that attacked opposing offenses, while allowing few scores. That’s why it made sense when Sumrall enlisted another familiar face in Greg Gasparato to run the defense. Gasparato, who served as Troy’s defensive coordinator last season, takes over one of the best defenses in the league. Tulane’s unit led the American Athletic in rush defense (113.4 yards per game) and finished second in scoring defense (20.5 points per game) last year.

The defensive line features one of the most formidable defenders in the league in tackle Patrick Jenkins. He’s joined by tackle Eric Hicks and defensive ends Matthew Fobbs-White and Angelo Anderson. The linebacking corps returns Tulane’s top two tacklers from last season, Jesus Machado and Tyler Grubbs.

The Green Wave secondary will feature plenty of new faces this season, with several transfers and new recruits joining the ranks. Cornerback Caleb Ransaw (Troy) appears to be the most fearsome of the bunch, along with Lu Tillery (Louisiana Monroe) and Jalen Geiger (Kentucky). Safety Bailey Despanie, third on the team in tackles last season, is one of the few returning impact contributors in this group.

PREDICTION

The season may get off to a rocky start with matchups against Kansas State and at Oklahoma in the first three weeks, but the rest of the schedule is very winnable. Avoiding UT San Antonio this year is beneficial, and the regular season finale against Memphis could determine who makes the conference championship game.

A successful foundation has been laid for Tulane football over the past eight years but that does not make Sumrall’s role any less arduous. The Green Wave are in the midst of a Golden Era of Tulane football and expectations have never been higher. Sumrall must not only maintain the current state of the program but also elevate it in the years to come.

Tulane: 11-3, American Athletic Championship Runner-Up, Frisco Bowl

Troy head

Jon Sumrall

THURSDAY, AUGUST 29 VS SOUTHEASTERN LA 7 PM, ESPN+

TULANE 2024 SEASON SCHEDULE

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5 @ UAB TBD

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9 VS TEMPLE TBD

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 VS KANSAS STATE 11 AM, ESPN+ / ESPN 2

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 @ OKLAHOMA 3:30 PM, ESPN+ / ESPN 2

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 @LOUISIANA TBD

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12 BYE WEEK

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16 @ NAVY 11 AM, ESPN NETWORK

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19 VS RICE TBD

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28 VS MEMPHIS 6:30 PM, ESPN

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26 @ NORTH TEXAS TBD

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 AAC CHAMPIONSHIP *If Qualified

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 28 VS SOUTH FLORIDA TBD

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31 @ CHARLOTTE 6:30 PM, ESPN

NAVIGATING NOLA

Survival Tips for College

If you were to describe the city of New Orleans, you probably wouldn't describe it as a college town. Yet, the city is a thriving educational hub.

Institutions including the University of New Orleans, Tulane University, and Loyola University attract students from across the globe to come here and create their own unique college experiences. The city also has three well-established historically Black colleges and universities (Xavier University, Dillard University, and Southern University at New Orleans), along with a plethora of other colleges, including Delgado Community College and LSU Medical School. Despite the city’s reputation for partying and nonstop activities, the schools in New Orleans manage to maintain their academic excellence and beautiful campuses. They do this while also

By Kimmie Tubré

embracing the city’s rich cultural heritage, creating a unique balance that sets them apart.

While New Orleans is a college town in its own right, could you imagine coming to this wonderfully crazy city as an out-of-state student? Being a city with constant entertaining distractions, it may take a lot of work to focus and navigate all of the madness.

So how do you survive and thrive here? From someone who has worked at a couple of colleges and interacted with many newbies, here are a few tips that will help you not only get your education but also adjust and make the most of your time in this great city.

BE SMART AND STAY SAFE

Let’s first get the negativity out of the way. We’ve all seen the news, heard the stories, and understand that any popular city will come with crime. That’s why staying safe requires a few essential precautions. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and stick to well-lit and populated areas. It’s crucial to keep a list of emergency contacts, including campus security and local police, readily accessible. Additionally, always lock your doors and windows and secure your valuables to prevent theft. And please don’t leave things visible in your car.

GETTING AROUND TOWN

While many locals choose to drive and many college students will arrive here with their own cars, there are also many that do not. The good news is that getting around New Orleans is fairly easy. Public transportation is available and affordable, so get familiar with the Regional Transit Authority. For the uptown students, the St. Charles streetcar line is especially useful and can take you from uptown to the downtown area. For more flexibility and a great way to stay in shape, many people use bikes as their method of transportation. While nothing is perfect, the city is becoming increasingly bikefriendly with new lanes and paths. Walking is also an option. Many neighborhoods, particularly those around universities, are walkable. As always, be mindful of safety.

GET INVOLVED AND STAY INFORMED

There are so many ways to get involved in the city, whether it’s on or off campus. Participating in orientation events is crucial for new students as it provides an opportunity to meet peers and learn about the different activities, along with finding out the resources available on campus. Getting involved in campus clubs, organizations, and activities is another excellent way to make friends and build a support network. Additionally, taking advantage of academic resources such as tutoring centers, libraries, and advising services can greatly enhance your educational experience and success.

PARTY BUT NOT TOO HARD

Yes, New Orleans has a bar and partying scene that’s very easy to get caught up in. However, while it’s tempting, it’s crucial to act and drink responsibly. The city’s enticing array of cocktails, cheap beers, festivals, bar culture, and major events like Mardi Gras can quickly lead to overindulgence. Drinking too much can not only spoil your experience but affect your studies. Enjoy but do so responsibly.

THINGS MAY SEEM CHEAPER, BUT BE CAREFUL

DON’T BE AFRAID TO BE SOCIAL

One thing you will learn quickly about this city is that “social” is its middle name. Of course it’s important to get your studies done, but why come to a city like this if you aren’t going to enjoy all it has to offer? With the plethora of constant activities, festivals, parties, and events around the city, there is seemingly always something to do. Be sure to responsibly indulge. Take time to explore New Orleans’ rich culture, music, food, and festivals by visiting vibrant neighborhoods like the French Quarter, Marigny, and Uptown. Be open to meeting new people and attend social events to build a diverse group of friends.

BALANCE IS KEY AND HEALTH IS WEALTH

New Orleans can be very hot and humid during much of the year, so it’s essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. While enjoying the city’s delicious local cuisine, balance it with healthy eating habits by making use of campus dining options and local farmers’ markets. Additionally, maintain an active lifestyle by using campus recreational facilities or exploring the city’s stunning parks.

While inflation is real, it’s safe to say that the day-to-day life and leisure of living in the Big Easy isn’t as expensive as some other major cities; however, things do add up quickly. Manage your finances effectively. Keep track of your expenses. Make use of student discounts and affordable dining options. If necessary, consider finding a part-time job or work-study position to help cover expenses and gain valuable work experience.

RESPECT THE CULTURE

New Orleans is known and loved for its culture and traditions. It’s definitely okay to participate and enjoy these things but be sure to respect them and the people who have been here celebrating, creating, and participating in these experiences for decades. Remember to be open-minded and don’t hesitate to engage with the local community by participating in volunteer work or attending cultural events. By immersing yourself in the local culture and contributing positively, you can deepen your connection to the city, expand your horizon, and get to know the people.

your SCHOOL BACK to Get ready to go

Prep for success with:

• Homework Louisiana tutoring

• Britannica Library

• Mango Languages

• Learning Express

• and more all with your Library card.

LAGNIAPPE

New Orleans Public Libraries Open Resources & Services, as Well as Minds

Everyone knows what a public library is. Every town has one. There are over 17,000 of them in the U.S. and over 410,000 of them in the world. In New Orleans, we have 15 public library locations and getting a library card from any of them is free.

By Sabrina Stone

They’ve been a free resource of educational materials for our lifetimes and many generations before that, dating back to the 1700s in the U.S. and before the first century in the larger world.

Let’s say that louder, for the people in the back: “Library cards are free for all Orleans Parish residents (as well as those who currently have a valid library card from Jefferson and St. Bernard parishes).”

A library card is a passport. It equals access to hundreds of thousands of books on every topic imaginable and allows access to a massive array of non-book resources that you might not have even guessed at.

Digital Downloads

Old school readers love the feel of a book, but if you can’t get to a library in person, if you’re worried that you won’t remember to return a book once you’ve borrowed it, if what you’re

looking for isn’t in stock, or if you just don’t want physical things cluttering your space, then there are a bunch of ways to search the archives online.

Through the Libby app, you can access thousands of e-books and e-audiobooks. Through Flipster, you can read the current issues of your favorite magazines. In the BiblioBoard Library, there’s tons of indie fiction by Louisiana authors (local writers can even submit their works for inclusion). If you’re interested in nonfiction, specifically biographies, you can find almost half a million of them in EBSCO’s Biography Reference Source. The Britannica Library, famous for printing those comprehensive encyclopedias that take up whole shelves, has three large databases, which include magazines, videos, audio clips, primary sources, maps, research tools, a dictionary, and a thesaurus.

TeenBookCloud is a digital book library focusing on grades 6–12, while TumbleBook Library covers grades K–6. The Louisiana Digital Library has over 100,000 resources that focus on our state. Newspapers links to free newspaper sites around the U.S. The entire Louisiana Public Library Ebook Collection is available online, and if you’re overwhelmed by the options, NoveList Plus even gives you suggestions and helps you discover new books and authors based on what you already like to read. There are also resources for watching movies and listening to music.

Educational Services

If you’ve been feeling like you want to learn more and just didn’t have the motivation or access, there are tons of opportunities on every level, in every age group, and in every area of education. You can access thousands of online courses on varied topics at Udemy through the library. With HomeworkLouisiana, you can get a live online tutor, build skills, get homework help, and access the writing, career, and adult education centers. The Learning Express Library has hugely helpful standardized tests, courses, and career prep for students and adults. Mango Languages offers over 70 world languages and 20+ English courses. Northstar Online Learning will help you with your technology skills. And LinkedIn Learning has all sorts of courses in job training.

There are even classes for the more right-brained thinkers though ArtistWorks, which provides art lessons from masters in the field; Creativebug, which has over 1,000 craft how-to videos; and Hobbies & Crafts Source, which has written manuals as well as video versions. EBSCO’s Home Improvement Source is filled with stepby-step instructions for new homeowners on repair, maintenance, and remodeling projects, including plumbing, outdoor, woodworking, electrical, and decorating tutorials.

Youth Programming

The New Orleans Public Library has so many resources for children of all ages. Their early literacy program focuses on talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing together. As they describe it, “Early literacy is what children know about reading and writing before they

learn to read and write. It’s the foundation that newborns to 5-year-olds need to become readers.” Their goal is to help kids find joy in reading and become lifelong learners. Schoolage children have access, at multiple locations, to a huge array of books, as well as dedicated play spaces, storytimes, LEGO clubs, costume parties with dress up kits, and puppet shows. ABC Mouse is also an interactive online educational platform for young students. They offer plenty of teen resources too.

Culture Pass

Name of Place

You can use your library card like a golden ticket to make reservations at some of the most interesting spots around the city. Choose from two classic art museums (the New Orleans Museum of Art and the Ogden Museum), two historical museums (the National WWII Museum and the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience), lighthouses, homes, and gardens that house smaller exhibits (the Gallier House, Hermann-Grima House, Historic BK House & Gardens, and the New Canal Lighthouse Museum), or go to the Audubon Nature Institute’s Audubon Zoo or Aquarium. There are even, occasionally, tickets available to see a performance by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.

Lagniappe

The possibilities at the New Orleans Public Library are truly endless. There’s a professional cake pan lending service at the Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center, for when you need that custom SpongeBob SquarePants birthday-themed party. Community arts workshops pop up at multiple locations. Gale Legal Forms: Louisiana provides forms covering hundreds of legal subjects and issues. The library provides job search assistance and a Virtual Civil Legal Clinic for free information and help with housing rights, tax issues, bankruptcies, divorces, and public benefits like Medicaid and SNAP food stamps. Notary services are available by appointment. Several locations allow you to recycle your glass through Glass Half Full. You can pick up free vegetable and flower seeds in their “seed library.” And if you’re from Louisiana and want to know more about your heritage, they’ve got Ancestry.com access and knowledgeable people to help you search.

LAUGH OUT LOUD

NOLA’s Comedy Scene

By Celeste Turner

Share a laugh with your friends or your best stand-up at these local comedy offerings throughout New Orleans.

Picture standing alone on stage in the spotlight with only a microphone and a bad case of the nerves at a comedy club in New Orleans. That was local comedian Carin Chapman, who recalled her first performance delivering a monologue of jokes and satirical comments to a large audience at the Comedy House New Orleans.

“My very first show was at the Comedy House New Orleans,” Chapman recalled. “This was my first stand-up show in June 2021. I’ve never done stand-up before. I was terrified at the prospect, so I said I’ll do it because I love doing things that scare me.”

For Chapman, that daring move was three years ago at the age of 40. She said, “After the first show, I was instantly hooked on stand-up, did an open mic the next night and another show the next week, and I’ve never looked back since.”

Of course, Chapman expressed her initial reluctance going from improvisational comedy to live stand-up. “I doubt I would’ve ever done stand-up if I hadn’t been spurred into action,” Chapman admitted. “I absolutely love making people happy and seeing them experience laughter and joy. There’s nothing else like it.”

DEDICATED COMEDY VENUES

Themed showcases of stand-up, improv, and open mic comedy are just a few of the unique comedy offerings around town. Like Chapman, many local and touring comedians share their best stand-up at the Comedy House New Orleans, the only full-time comedy club in the city, located at 610 Fulton St. in the Warehouse District. “We are the only venue that exclusively produces comedy events six nights per week, year round,” said Chris Trew, the booker at the Comedy House New Orleans and a comedian for about 20 years. “We do up to 15 shows a week. Our tickets are around $20. We seat 75 and have a full bar. We have a regular open mic on Wednesday nights and ‘The Open Mic From Hell,’ which happens every Monday at 8 p.m.”

A more recent addition to the comedy scene is Big Couch NOLA, which is located at 1045 Desire St. in the Bywater. Big Couch offers not only stand-up comedy, but also improv, sketch comedy, comedy film screenings, storytelling, and theater. “Big Couch is more than a comedy club,” Carrie Moulder, coowner and founder of Big Couch NOLA, said. “It’s a center for comedy, theater, creativity, community, and exploration.” She explained that Big Couch NOLA hosts about three to six shows a week, Wednesday through Sunday, with tickets ranging from free to $25 depending upon the show and talent. “We have a 75-seat theater, a separate classroom, and a snack bar area,” Moulder said. “And every Saturday at 1 p.m., we hold a free improv comedy jam.”

COMEDY SHOWS IN LOCAL ESTABLISHMENTS

A local spot in the Marigny that has been hosting comedy events for almost 10 years is called “Comedy F#@k Yeah (CFY)”, previously known as “It’s Good Comedy.” Located upstairs at the Dragon’s Den on Esplanade Avenue, “CFY” is not considered a full-time comedy club. However, according to Vincent Zambon, the producer and host of “It’s Good Comedy,” they do supply weekly comedy shows. “We do operate similarly with an open mic on Thursdays, and then the showcases every Friday and Saturday night,” Zambon mentioned. “Our average ticket price is $15. We can seat 65 with 20 standing.”

Whether you’re holding the mic or cracking up in your chair, the “Bear with Me Comedy Open Mic” is a local favorite every Monday night at the Twelve Mile Limit bar located in Mid-City. “Since this is open mic, anyone who wants to sign up has the opportunity to perform,” said Lauren Malara, a New Orleans-based comedian and cofounder of “Bear With Me Comedy Open Mic,” which is the longest woman-run show in Louisiana. “Our show is free. We love giving people a space to try comedy and bring more laughter to the world.“

For a night of laughs, comedy seekers can check out the “Comedy Gumbeaux Show,” located at The Howlin’ Wolf on 907 South Peters. “We do host a major open mic every Thursday night when the schedule permits,” said Bad Boy Redbean, a local comedian, founder, and host of “Comedy Gumbeaux.” “With more than 100 seats available, our shows primarily feature stand-up comedy, with an open mic format that welcomes both seasoned performers and newcomers. The general cost of admission remains a modest $10.”

If that line-up doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can always check out the collection of New Orleans comedians listed on “Craft Comedy’s” social media pages and website. “We partner with local breweries, bars, and lounges that range from dive bar to high class to bring comedy to the community, maintaining a consistent weekly and monthly show schedule,” said Jorge Velazquez, producer of “Craft Comedy.” “All ‘Craft Comedy’ shows are always free to attend, although we do accept tips.” Weekly show schedules are posted on different social media platforms. Velazquez added, “While we are not based out of a single specific location, we operate across various venues in New Orleans, effectively making the entire city our stage.”

No doubt, the comedy scene in the Crescent City is thriving, delivering a dose of laughter and entertainment on the menu for any day of the week. Be sure to check out 504comedy.com for an up-to-date schedule of local comedy shows happening around New Orleans. For anyone looking to improve their own comedy skills, Anubis Improv in Metairie offers different levels of improv classes to try out.

QUEEN OF THE CRATES

An Interview with NOLA’s World-Famous

DJ Soul Sister

By Michelle Nicholson

Marking 20 years of hosting New Orleans’ Hustle dance party and 30 years of service at WWOZ, 2024 is a big year for DJ Soul Sister and the many who not only celebrate with her but also celebrate her and all she does to support generations of musicians, dancers, and lovers of funk, soul, and R&B.

This love affair began much longer than 30 years ago, though. DJ Soul Sister shared that she began collecting records when she was a child: “When I was six, my dad brought me to a tent sale at Sound Warehouse record store in Metairie. I pointed to Kool & the Gang’s Music Is the Message album because it looked cool, and Kool & the Gang was red hot in 1980.”

It seemed she was already well on her way to becoming DJ Soul Sister, as she explained, “Also that year, my cousin Michael bought me the The Gap Band III album, and another cousin named Skippy, who I only met once, bought me Chaka Khan’s Whatcha Gonna Do For Me album, which came out in 1981. Between those and the record collections that my dad and cousins Joe and Michael had, with all the hip music, I was already wanting to have my own collection of records.”

She added, “In the meantime, I had a little radio that looked like a mouse, and I’d go to sleep with it on, listening to WAIL FM 105, which only lasted a few years in the early 1980s but really influenced me. So I grew up listening to R&B, jazz, funk, electro, and disco based on radio and records in my family’s homes.”

So while Music Is the Message may not have been her first record, it was the first album that the fledgling DJ Soul Sister selected for her crates. She clarified, “I didn’t buy it myself, but [my dad] bought it for me, and I loved it so much. Still do. It’s my favorite album of them all. I don’t remember much else about that except probably wondering why ‘Celebration,’ the big song at that time, wasn’t on it. And then I didn’t even care. I was just into the music. Today, I continue to dig for records because I’m always wanting to hear some good music I don’t have yet. No one has all the records. There are too many. So it’s a never-ending hunt, but it never gets old.”

Being able to regift music to others seems to never get old for her either, as she professed, “I love music, and throwing parties [like Hustle] is just one way I’m so lucky to be able to share it. In addition to DJing and throwing fun parties where I get to cultivate the sounds and vibe that I think work best for me and people who follow my parties, I also share music through my Soul Power radio show on WWOZ and a number of other events I produce,

including crate digging mixers, film screenings, and so many more things I plan to do in the future.”

For 30 years now, DJ Soul Sister has gifted her time to WWOZ and her musical expertise to the airwaves of New Orleans. She recalled, “I started volunteering with the station [WWOZ] sometime in 1994 when I was a freshman in college. I didn’t start at the station with my radio show. I was just there to help the station, which I loved listening to. Before WWOZ, I did a small radio show at Loyola University on their WLDC AM station, which you could only hear on campus or for an off-campus radius of about one block. The show was called Nostalgic Noise.”

If you ask DJ Soul Sister, she will claim that WWOZ is the gift. She said, “All on-air hosts are volunteers, so it’s less of a celebration of the work and more of a gratitude that I’m still here to share the music I love. Doing the show on WWOZ is no different from me listening to records I like at my own house, outside of more people being able to hear it via the radio station.”

She emphasized, “I’m also glad that a concept like community radio and WWOZ exists for us. When I started listening to the station when I was in high school in the early 1990s, I would learn so much about music I didn’t know from the on-air show hosts. So for me to be one of those people I looked up to is always a thrill, and I always hope someone is enjoying or learning just as I did so many years ago.”

At the start of our interview, DJ Soul Sister revealed her sentiment that “everything evolves,” before going on to disclose, “The older I get, the more I slow down—which is a blessing. These days, at my choice, I only do one event a month—sometimes two or maybe three at max. Also, I like talking and educating about music, music history, and music culture. I love learning, and I love sharing knowledge, and that’s what I gravitate toward more these days.”

“But when I do want to throw a party, I’m lucky that I have many places that partner with me to make it happen,” she concluded. “Special shout-out to the Hi-Ho Lounge, which has been my happy home for my Hustle party for many years now. We haven’t skipped a beat.”

MUSIC CALENDAR

MONDAY, AUGUST 19

21st Amendment Andy J. Forest

30/90 Dapper Dandies, Half Shell Boogie

Apple Barrel bar Mark Appleford

Bacchanal Byron Asher (outdoors)

Bamboula’s Jon Roniger Band, Les Getrex

Broadside Ghost Town Steppers

Capulet T Marie, Bayou Juju

D.B.A The Jump Hounds

Dos Jefes Papa Mali

Fritzel’s Richard Scott, Tin Men

Hotel Peter & Paul New Orleans Choir

Connection

Kermit’s Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge

Kermit Ruffins

Lakeshore Library Music Mondays

Maple Leaf Runnin’ Pardners

The Maison Cristina Kaminis

Tropical Isle Dave Ferrato, Josh Kerin

TUESDAY, AUGUST 20

Bacchanal Trey Boudreaux

Bamboula’s Caitie B., Aaron Levinston & Friends

Bayou Bar The O.G.’s

Bourbon Orleans Hotel Ingrid Lucia

Buffa’s Alex McMurray

Deutsches Haus Deutsches Haus Kulturabend

Dos Jefes Joe Krown

Fritzel’s Colin Myers Orchestra

Holy Diver The Amazing Henrietta

Kermit’s Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge Irvin

Mayfield, Kermit Ruffins, J Batiste

Mid-City Lanes Rock n Bowl Javier Olondo, AsheSon Rabbit Hole Rebirth

Smoothie King Center Future, Metro Boomin

Spotted Cat Chris Christy, Smoking Time Jazz Club

The Maison Eight Dice Cloth, Gene’s Music Machine

Tropical Isle Dave Ferrato, Mike Lemmler

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21

Apple Barrel Big Soul Band

Bacchanal Jesse Morrow

Bamboula’s Caleb Nelson, The Queen & Friendz

Bayou Bar Firm Roots, New Orleans

Groovemaster

Café Degas Double Whisky

Cafe Istanbul Cole Williams

Chickie Wah Wah Aaron Lee Tasjan

Deutsches Haus John Rankin, Cranston Clements

Fritzel’s Bourbon Street Stars

Public Service Restaurant Matt Lemmler

National WWII Museum Victory Belles

Spotted Cat Chris Christy

Tipitina’s Russell Crowe, The Gentlemen Barbers

THURSDAY, AUGUST 22

Bacchanal Raphael Bas

Bamboula’s Cristina Kaminis, Wolfe Johns Blues Bayou Bar Cryptic

Capulet Belinda Moody

City Park - Pavilion of the Two Sisters Pfister Sisters

D.B.A. John Lisi, Delta Funk

Dos Jefes Mark Coleman

Fritzel’s Kevin Ray Clark, John Saavedra House of Blues Cults

Le Bon Temps Roulé Soul Rebels

Maple Leaf Johnny Vidacovich

Peacock Room Da Lovebirds, Robin Barnes

Santos Bar IV and the Strange, Holy Locust

Siberia J.R.C.G.

Southport Hall King 810

Spotted Cat Chris Christy, Jumbo Shrimp

The Maison Single Malt Please

Tipitina’s Dumpstaphunk, Members of Galactic Vaughan’s Lounge Corey Henry, Treme Funktet

FRIDAY, AUGUST 23

Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green

Bamboula’s Felipe Antonio’s Quinteto, Les Getrex

Bayou Bar Oh Yeah!

Bombay Club T Marie, Bayou Juju

Fillmore Ski Mask The Slump God

Fritzel’s All Star Band, Kevin Ray Clark

Hi Ho Lounge DJ Soul Sister

Holy Diver Rik Slave

Le Bon Temps Roule Organami

Maple Leaf Johnny Vidacovich

Marigny Brasserie Caitie B.

NOLA Brewing River Benders

Public Service Restaurant Matt Lemmler

Siberia McCloud, Not Exotic

Southport Hall Black Flag, Paradise Jazz Band

The Maison Sierra Green

Tin Roof Next Level Band

Tipitina’s Steve Kelly, Slugger

SATURDAY, AUGUST 24

Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell

Bacchanal Miles Berry, Raphael Bas

Bamboula’s The Jaywalkers, Wolfe Johns Band

Bayou Bar Jordan Anderson

Blue Nile George Brown, Next Level

Bookoo Lounge Leon The God

Capulet Willie Green III

Dos Jefes Sunpie, Louisiana Sunspots

Fillmore Big Daddy Kane, Doug E Fresh, KRS

One, & Slick Rick

Santos Bar Berlin Taxi, Lisbon Girls

The Maison Jenavieve Cooke, Sunny Side Jazz

Bad

Tipitina’s David Cross, Sean Patton

MONDAY, AUGUST 26

21st Amendment James Beaumont Duo

30/90 Margie Perez, Piano Man ‘G’

Bacchanal Alfred Jordan

Bamboula’s Jon Roniger, Le Getrex

Buffa’s Doyle Cooper, Yoshitaka ‘Z2’ Tsuji

D.B.A The Jump Hounds

Dos Jefes John Fohl, Papa Mali

Fritzel’s Richard Scott, Tin Men

Hi Ho Lounge Bluegrass Pickin’ Party, Tucker Baker

Kermit’s Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge

Kermit Ruffins

Poor Boys Decompression Mondays, DJ Funké

Siberia Street Fever, Presentation

Spotted Cat Jenavieve Cook, Dominick Grillo

St. Roch Tavern Big Jon Atkinson

The Maison Cristina Kaminis, Gene Black’s

Tornado Warning

Tropical Isle Dave Ferrato, Cass Faulconer

AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD SHOW AT SAENGER

The Australian Pink Floyd Show, which is one of the greatest Pink Floyd tribute shows in the world, is coming to NOLA. The show has musicians from many different countries and has been going for over 35 years. Sunday, August 25, 7:30 p.m., $25-$67, saengernola.com

Fritzel’s Kevin Ray Clark, Steve DeTroy Band

House of Blues Robert Neary

Kermit’s Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge

Kermit Ruffins

Le Bon Temps Roulé Lee Yankie

Mid-City Lanes Rock n Bowl Eagles vs. Fleetwood Mac

NOLA Brewing Otra

National Park Service French Quarter

Majekfingers

Pour House Jamey St. Pierre

Santos Bar Heavy Temple, Valley of the Sun

Siberia Punk Black

Spotted Cat Shake’em Up

The Maison Higher Heights

Tipitina’s Raw Deal, Delores Galore

SUNDAY, AUGUST 25

21st Amendment Dominick Grillo, Marty Peters

30/90 Funhouse

Bacchanal Noah Young, Stephen Menold

Bamboula’s Youse, Midnight Brawlers

BJ’s Lounge James McClaskey

Blue Nile Street Legends Brass Band

Bratz Y’all Jerry Dugger, Dean Zucchero

Buffa’s Fr. Ron, Steve Pistorius

Bullet’s In Tune

Capulet Coyote Anderson

D.B.A Palmetto Bug Stompers, Vegas Cola Band

Dos Jefes Michael Liuzza

Fillmore Jane’s Addiction, Love and Rockets

THURSDAY, AUGUST 29

Bacchanal Raphael Bas

Bamboula’s Cristina

Kaminis, Wolfe Johns

Blues

Bayou Bar Cryptic

Deutsches Haus Jefferson Parish Community

Band

Dos Jefes Jenna McSwain

Fritzel’s Kevin Ray Clark, John Saavedra

Maple Leaf Reneé Gros, Sam Price

Peacock Room Da Lovebirds, Robin Barnes

Saenger Theatre Los Angeles Azules

Siberia Zen Hander, Nail Club

Spotted Cat Chris Christy, Jumbo Shrimp

The Maison Steve Walker, Rug Cutters

Vaughan’s Lounge Corey Henry

FRIDAY, AUGUST 30

Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green

Bamboula’s Felipe Antonio’s Quinteto, Les Getrex

Bayou Bar Oh Yeah!

Bombay Club T Marie, Bayou Juju

Bratz Y’all Chip Wilson, Dean Zucchero

Cafe Negril Higher Heights

Capulet Layla Musselwhite

Dos Jefes Afrodiziac’s Jazz

Fillmore Charley Crockett

Fritzel’s All Star Band, Kevin Ray Clark

Holy Diver Rik Slave

House of Blues Alyssa Edwards

Marigny Brasserie Caitie B.

Mid-City Lanes Rock n Bowl LA ROXX

NOLA Brewing Sunpie, Keiko Komaki

Jazz National Historical Park Jason Marsalis

Le Bon Temps Roulé TG & Smack City AllStars

Pour House Funhouse

Public Service Restaurant Matt Lemmler

Santos Bar HEALTHGOTH, Nuddie Piper

Smoothie King Center Fuerza Regida, Jennifer Lopez

Southport Hall Molly Ringwalds

Spotted Cat Paradise Jazz Band

Streaming Only David Doucet

The Maison Zena Moses, Rue Fiya

Tipitina’s The Quickening, All That

SATURDAY, AUGUST 31

Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell

Bacchanal Miles Berry, Raphael Bas

Bamboula’s The Jaywalkers, The Rug Cutters Bayou Bar Jordan Anderson

Blue Nile George Brown

TUESDAY, AUGUST 27

21st Amendment Dirty People Band

30/90 Tajh Derosier

Bacchanal Trey Boudreaux

Bamboula’s Caitie B., The A-OK’s

Bayou Bar The O.G.’s

Bourbon Orleans Hotel Ingrid Lucia

Buffa’s Alex McMurray

Dos Jefes Joe Krown

Holy Diver The Amazing Henrietta

Kermit’s Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge

Kermit Ruffins, J Batiste

Rabbit Hole Rebirth

Spotted Cat Chris Christy, Smoking Time Jazz

Club

The Maison Gene’s Music Machine

Tropical Isle Dave Ferrato, Cass Faulconer

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28

Apple Barrel Big Soul

Bacchanal Jesse Morrow

Bamboula’s Caleb Nelson, The Queen & Friendz

Bayou Bar Firm Roots, New Orleans

Groovemaster

Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band

Café Degas Double Whisky

Cafe Istanbul Cole Williams

Dos Jefes Z2

Fritzel’s All Star Band, Kevin Ray Clark

Maison Bourbon Jazz Club The Leroy Marshall

Band

Cafe Negril Higher Heights

Capulet Washboard Chaz

Dos Jefes Tom Fitzpatrick

Hard Rock Cafe John Lisi, Delta Funk

Orpheum Theater Lalah Hathaway

Saenger Theatre Australian Pink Floyd

Public Service Restaurant Matt Lemmler

Snug Harbour Uptown Jazz Orchestra

Spotted Cat Chris Christy

Buffa’s Clint Maedgen

Carrollton Station Sunpie Barnes, T Marie

Capulet Hanna Mignano

Double Dealer Anais St. John

Dos Jefes Joe Krown

Fritzel’s Steve DeTroy

Jefferson Performing Arts Center Al Stewart

Kermit’s Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge

Kermit Ruffins

Lakeside Shopping Center Jazz Trio

Le Bon Temps Roulé Tight Instrumental

Marigny Brasserie Caitie B.

Mid-City Lanes Rock n Bowl Mojeaux

National Park Service French Quarter Majekfingers

NOLA Brewing Noah Young, Mahmoud Chouki

Southport Hall Still Standing

Spotted Cat Panorama Jazz

The Maison Amber Rachelle, Cameron Dupuy

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

100 Men Hall Rita Brent

Bacchanal Noah Young, Stephen Menold

Maple Leaf Jason Ricci

Southport Hall Paperchase

The Howlin'’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

Tipitina’s Rebirth, Zoomst

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

Dos Jefes John Fohl

Maple Leaf George Porter Jr.

Okay Bar Chris Turpin, A.P. Rodgers

The Howlin' Wolf Sariyah Idan

FESTIVAL

Annual Gem & Mineral Show

October 4-6

FRIDAY & SATURDAY 10 am – 6 pm SUNDAY 10 am – 4 pm

Precious Gemstones, Minerals, Fossils, Beads, and Jewelry Demonstrations of Jewelry Making and Cabochon Cutting Geode Cracking and Gem Mining & Much More

DISCOUNT COUPON

Tons of activities for kids! Of quartz, there’s family fun for everyone!

$1 OFF ADMISSION

$7 weekend pass with re-entry

KIDS AGE 11 AND UNDER..AND SCOUTS IN UNIFORM — FREE ADMISSION!

$3 STUDENTS, MILITARY, & MEMBERS WITH ID Cash Only • Plenty of parking!

CENTER

MUSIC CALENDAR

HOODOO GURUS AT HOUSE OF BLUES

Australian rock band Hoodoo Gurus are coming back to America and will be performing at NOLA’s House of Blues. They have had several well-received rock hits including "Tojo," "My Girl," and "Bittersweet." Saturday, September 7, 8 p.m., $25-$75, houseofblues.com

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3

Dos Jefes Tom Hook

Rabbit Hole Rebirth

Spotted Cat Music Club Chris Christ, Smoking

Time Jazz Club

The Howlin' Wolf Sariyah Idan

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

Café Degas Double Whisky

Cafe Istanbul Cole Williams, Chuck Perkins

Public Service Restaurant Matt Lemmler

Spotted Cat Chris Christy

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5

City Park - Pavilion of the Two Sisters Walrus

& Electric Yat Quartet

Le Bon Temps Roulé Soul Rebels

Okay Bar Natalie Mae, Micah Mckee

Peacock Room Robin Barnes, Pat Casey

Southport Hall Galactic Empire

Spotted Cat Chris Christy, Jumbo Shrimp

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6

Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green

Carrollton Station Max Sanders

Deutsches Haus Damenchor Deutsches Haus

- Ladies Choir, Saengerchor Deutsches Haus -

Men’s Choir

House of Blues Bricks In the Wall

Le Bon Temps Roulé The Nerve

Public Service Restaurant Matt Lemmler

Santos Bar HIGH DESERT QUEEN

Southport Hall Maiden La

Spotted Cat Paradise Jazz Band

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell

Fountain Lounge Leslie Martin

House of Blues Hoodoo Gurus

Le Bon Temps Roulé Retrofit Roots, Funky Soul

Le Petit Theatre Betsy Wolfe

Maple Leaf Mike B3

Smoothie King Center Childish Gambino

The Goat Christworm, Dogma

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

Bacchanal Noah Young, Stephen Menold

Cafe Istanbul Katrina Ji’s Rajasthani

House of Blues Demola

The Howlin’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

Tipitina’s Fais Do-Do, Bruce Daigrepont

Siberia Sarah Shook

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

Dos Jefes John Fohl

Maple Leaf George Porter Jr.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

Dos Jefes Tom Hook

Southport Hall PLUSH

Spotted Cat Chris Christy, Smoking Time

The Broadside Walter Trout

The National WWII Museum Victory Belles

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11

AllWays Lounge Rhinestone Cowpoke, Jeez Loueez

Café Degas Double Whisky

Cafe Istanbul Cole Williams

Public Service Restaurant Matt Lemmler

Southport Hall Udo Dirkschneider

Spotted Cat Chris Christy

WBR Tourist Information and Conference

Center Justin Cornett, Swampland Revival

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

City Park - Pavilion of the Two Sisters Pardon

My French

Dickie Brennan’s Irma Thomas, Kermit Ruffins

Fillmore Brett Young

House of Blues Alkaline

Le Bon Temps Roulé Soul Rebels

Orpheum Theater Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra

Peacock Room Da Lovebirds, Robin Barnes

Spotted Cat Chris Christy, Jumbo Shrimp

The Howlin' Wolf Mitchel Dae, Bemo Rouge

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green

Chickie Wah Wah The Selfless Lovers, The Debtors

House of Blues Yung Bleu

Maple Leaf Mike Dillon, Funky Monkey Okay Bar Heather Littlefield, Rico Del Oro

Public Service Restaurant Matt Lemmler’s “New Orleans in Stride”

Saturn Bar T Marie, Jeffrey Broussard

Spotted Cat Paradise Jazz Band

The Howlin' Wolf Relic Saint Malo, Young C Favorite.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell

Bamboula’s Johnny Mastro Blues

Chickie Wah Wah Hotel Burgundy, Hello Darling Constantinople Stage (OUTDOORS) Ted Hefko

Fountain Lounge Leslie Martin

Joy Theater The Lox

Le Bon Temps Roulé Dr. Lo Faber, New Orleans

Johnnys

Mahalia Jackson Theater Iliza

Maple Leaf Eric Johanson

Smoothie King Center Jelly Roll

Spotted Cat Shake’em Up

The Howlin' Wolf Bald Dog Project, Marsh Fire

Tipitina’s Galactic, Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

Bacchanal Noah Young, Stephen Menold

Orpheum Theater Chris Botti

The Howlin' Wolf Bald Dog Project, Marsh Fire

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

Capulet T Marie, Bayou Juju Dos Jefes John Fohl

For up-to-date listings, visit WhereYat.com

Maple Leaf George Porter Jr.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

Dos Jefes Tom Hook

Deutsches Haus Deutsches Haus Kulturabend

Siberia King Buzzo, Trevor Dunn

Spotted Cat Chris Christy, Smoking Time

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

Café Degas Double Whisky

Cafe Istabul Cole Williams

Okay Bar Oh Dang, Night Medicine

Longue Vue House and Gardens KatieCat & Cain

Public Service Restaurant Matt Lemmler

Siberia Temple of the Fuzz Witch, Hashtronaut

Spotted Cat Chris Christy

Tipitina’s Peter Cat

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

Chickie Wah Wah Don Cook, Dick Deluxe City Park - Pavilion of the Two Sisters John Boutté

Fillmore New Orleans Jimmy Eat World House of Blues Here Come the Mummies

Orpheum Theater André 3000

Peacock Room Da Lovebirds, Robin Barnes

Spotted Cat Chris Christy, Jumbo Shrimp

The Broadside Domkraft, Leather Lung

The Goat Horseburner, Totem

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green

Carrollton Station Sweet Magnolia, Burris Civic Theatre Marty Stuart And His Fabulous Superlatives

Deutsches Haus Damenchor Deutsches Haus

- Ladies Choir, Saengerchor Deutsches HausAnnual Dinner

House of Blues Silversun Pickups

Maple Leaf Flow Tribe

Public Service Restaurant Matt Lemmler

Sibera Kraftwitch, Drugstore Lipstick

Southport Hall Green Jello

Spotted Cat Paradise Jazz Band

The Howlin' Wolf Hypno Nun

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell

Bamboula’s Johnny Mastro Blues

Carrollton Station Bakey’s Brew Fountain Lounge Leslie Martin

French Market Johnette Downing House of Blues Digable Planets

Le Bon Temps Roule Chris Coreil, LowDown

WILD‘N OUTAT SMOOTHIE KING CENTER

Nick Cannon will be celebrating more than 20 years of nonstop humor during Wild’N Out at the Smoothie King Center. All age groups are invited, and the evening will be filled with unexpected musical performances.

Saturday, September 21, 7 p.m., $50-$275, smoothiekingcenter.com

Brass Band

Maple Leaf Dave

Jordan, The Tanglers

Orpheum Theater Ray

LaMontagne

Smoothie King Center

Nick Cannon

The Howlin' Wolf Kenton Place

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

Bacchanal Noah Young, Stephen Menold

Civic Theatre Cat Power

Maple Leaf Joe Krown, Papa Mali

Santos Bar Hans Gruber

Siberia RIXE, Piston

The Howlin’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23

Dos Jefes John Fohl

Maple Leaf George Porter Jr.

Sibera Mike Baggetta, Peter DiStefano

Tipitina’s Judah & The Lion, StrateJacket

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

Dos Jefes Tom Hook

Spotted Cat Chris Christy, Smoking Time

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25

Cafe Istanbul Cole Williams

Café Degas Double Whisky

Chickie Wah Wah Shannon McNally

Fillmore Kehlani

Longue Vue House and Gardens MACUMBA

Public Service Restaurant Matt Lemmler

Spotted Cat Chris Christy

The National WWII Museum Victory Belles

Tipitina’s Dinosaur Jr., Cashier

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

City Park - Pavilion of the Two Sisters Yat

Pack

Fillmore KK’s Priest

Hotel Peter & Paul Valerie Sassyfras

Spotted Cat Jumbo Shrimp

The Broadside Gregg Hill

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green

Chickie Wah Wah Jake Fussell

Maple Leaf Johnny Sansone, Sage Against The Machine

Public Service Restaurant Matt Lemmler

Orpheum Theater Kirk Whalum, Donald Harrison

Southport Hall Skeletal Remains., Bewitcher

Spotted Cat Paradise Jazz Band

Tipitina’s California Honeydrops

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell

Armstrong Park Irvin Mayfield, Jesse

Royal,Steel Pulse, Big Chief Donald Harrison Jr.

Chickie Wah Wah Dan Penn

Hi Ho Lounge DJ Soul Sister

House of Blues Nicotine Dolls

Maple Leaf River Eckert

Orpheum Theater Louisiana Philharmonic

Orchestra

Spotted Cat Shake’em Up

The Broadside Joy Clark, Leyla McCalla

The Howlin' Wolf Skyway61, First Street

Hooligans

Tipitina’s Marc Broussard, Joe Stark

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29

Armstrong Park Spyro Gyra, Average White Band, Choppa Afrikool, Alexy Marti

Bacchanal Noah Young, Stephen Menold

Champions Square Sexyy Red

House of Blues Brooks Nielsen

Joy Theater Future Islands

Maple Leaf Joe Krown, Papa Mali

Siberia Sinister, Tombstoner

Southport Hall Upon A Burning Body

The Howlin’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

Tipitina’s Old 79’s

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30

Dos Jefes John Fohl

Maple Leaf George Porter Jr.

LAKESIDE2RIVERSIDE

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL SONGBLAZERS AT THE SAENGER

September 21 – 22 | saengernola.com/events/songblazers

Discover country music in a way you’ve never known it before as Cirque du Soleil performers deliver the perfect pairing of rustic tunes and spectacular moves on the Saenger’s stage. Cirque du Soleil’s production of Songblazers, which will stop in New Orleans for two days, celebrates country music with a one-of-a-kind theatrical production. Tickets are available online for purchase starting at $44—a small price to pay for an awe-inspiring production. Grab a seat at the Saenger and sit back while talented performers pay homage to legendary country music performers and modernday industry trailblazers.

SOUTHERN DECADENCE

Through September 2 | southerndecadence.com

There’s no better way to celebrate summer in the city than Southern Decadence, the largest LGBTQ+ event in New Orleans. Southern Decadence boasts a number of pride events across New Orleans, including captivating drag shows, competitive game nights, and feel-good fundraisers, culminating in a spectacular pride parade finale on September 1. Strut over to Royal Street’s Golden Lantern at 2 p.m. and join grand marshals Carr Kennedy, Jeffrey Mayeux, and Paribe Meyer as they lead the 52nd annual Southern Decadence Parade.

BOOMTOWN NEW ORLEANS 30TH ANNIVERSARY BASH

August 30 | boomtownneworleans.com

Feeling lucky? Boomtown New Orleans is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a $30K cash bash and anniversary party. From 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., five winners are called every 30 minutes, with one grand prize winner taking home $10,000 cash at 11 p.m. Prizes are awarded based on tier points in the PENN Play app—10 tier points equal one entry. From 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., join Boomtown for their all-white New Orleans Anniversary Party, featuring DJ Popps and Captain Charles. Roll the dice and join Boomtown’s 30th Anniversary bash on the Westbank. You might hit the jackpot.

JPAS’ SCHOOL OF ROCK—THE MUSICAL

September 13 – 22 | jpas.org

Get ready to rock when the Jefferson Performing Arts Society puts on a production of School of Rock— The Musical the Jefferson Performing Arts Center. Based on the 2003 movie, The Musical delightful tale of a failed rock star turned substitute teacher who shapes straight-A students into a guitar-shredding rock band. Tickets for the show start at $30 and can be purchased online. Featuring upwards of 20 performers and 14 songs, JPAS’s production of The Musical unforgettable show that you won’t want to miss.

LOUISIANA FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

September 19 – 22 | louisianafoodandwinefestival.com

Explore everything that Louisiana’s unique culture has to offer at the Louisiana Food & Wine Event, located in Lake Charles. From musicians to culinary experts, the four-day festival hosted by Visit Lake Charles is designed to celebrate the best parts of Louisiana, as well as the South. Tickets can be purchased online starting at $79, and ticket packages are available for an elevated experience. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a Sunday jazz brunch, jam out to Horace Trahan and the Ossun Express, or taste a new cocktail, the Louisiana Food and Wine Festival hosts a variety of events guaranteed to satisfy every attendee.

YEARS OF DECADENCE

A First-Timer’s Guide to Southern Decadence

By Reine Dugas

New Orleans is a pretty gay city on any given day, but during the last weekend of August, it becomes a truly decadent affair.

This year marks the 52nd Southern Decadence celebration, a bounty of LGBTQ+ events happening August 29 through September 2 throughout the French Quarter. There are parties all weekend long, including the walking parade on Sunday afternoon.

According to the Southern Decadence website, it is the top gay Labor Day weekend destination, and “recent attendance has broken all records, with over 275,000 gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender participants, and an economic impact estimated to be in excess of $285 million.”

HISTORY OF DECADENCE

Back in 1972, a group of friends living in Tremé planned a going away party for a friend named David Randolph with a riff on Tennessee Williams’ Belle Reve in A Streetcar Named Desire, and they named it a “Southern Decadence Party: Come as Your Favorite Southern Decadent.” All guests had to dress as their favorite decadent Southern character. The next year, the group threw another Southern Decadence party. They met at Matassa’s Bar in the French Quarter, decked out in costumes, and took a stroll back to Belle Reve. This would be the first “parade,” and with each passing year, Southern Decadence would continue to grow.

In the early ‘80s, Grand Marshal V Robert King was the only one left of the original group, and it was during this time that Southern Decadence would be a mostly gay event. They also decided to start the parade at the Golden Lantern Bar. More changes would come over the years and after has now morphed into several days of non-stop events and festivities.

THIS YEAR’S THEME AND GRAND MARSHAL

This year’s grand marshals include Vanessa Carr Kennedy, Paribe Meyer, and Jeffrey Mayeux, and the theme will be “Birds of a Feather Flock Together.” This year’s official charity is the New Orleans Advocates for LGBTQ+ Elders, and the grand marshals will also make a contribution to help pay the cost of replacing the UpStairs Lounge memorial plaque, which was stolen in April 2024.

Grand marshals have a lot of responsibilities. According to Frank Perez, who was grand marshal in 2018, “The grand marshal is responsible for producing and leading the parade, which is always on the Sunday before Labor Day. The GMs in recent years have appointed a parade captain who handles the logistics of the parade, but the GMs still raise the money to pay for the parade. Costs include the parade permit, parade insurance, security detail, sanitation, costumes, and a host of other expenses. These funds are raised throughout the summer at bar events and other fundraisers. They also accept sponsorships from individuals and businesses. The GMs host a luncheon for the former grand marshals a week before the parade, and the lunch is followed by a bar crawl.”

MAJOR EVENTS

The intersection of Bourbon and St. Ann is the gay heart of New Orleans and is where most of the happenings for Southern Decadence occur. The Bourbon Pub video bar and the Parade dance club are packed with revelers on Decadence weekend.

Last year’s events included lively events such as the Battle of the Biggest Bulge Contest, Boys on Parade Strip Off, T-Dance for the Ladies, a Hot Ass Contest, and Ladies of Lipstixx Drag Review, to name a few.

This year’s events will include the Phoenix Block Party that runs each night over the weekend, a nightly party at the Bourbon Pub & Parade, Hungfest musical showcase, Bearracuda’s takeover, Party with the Pornstars, and more. The Sunday afternoon parade is the traditional Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Parade and will take place on September 1 at 2 p.m.

FIRST-TIMER’S GUIDE

Southern Decadence isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s a bawdy, wild time that goes on day and night for several days in a row. So if it’s your first time attending, there are a few things you can do to be prepared. Here are some things to know, as well as do and not do, if you’re new to Decadence.

SUGGESTIONS FROM THE SOUTHERN DECADENCE:

• There are NO/AIDS Task force information tables located on the St. Ann Street sidewalk near the Bourbon Pub & Parade, where you’ll find community info, free condoms, and details on Decadence events.

• Plan on walking—a lot. Be sure to walk where it’s well-lit and there are plenty of people. Note parking signs if you park on the streets.

• Use your street smarts and just take what cash and cards/ID you need. Put them in a spot where they can’t be easily gotten to.

• Pace yourself. Since bars are open 24 hours, it’s easy to over serve yourself.

• Respect the French Quarter it's a historic neighborhood.

HERE ARE A FEW TIPS AND INSIGHTS FROM PEREZ:

• Many businesses that fly rainbow flags are only interested in your rainbow dollars. Many are not gay-owned and do not support the local queer community throughout the year.

• There are a lot of great gay bars off of Bourbon Street.

• Tip your bartenders, servers, and street performers.

• Some bars take cash only. Some bars take credit cards only.

• The real party is in the streets. Bars are super crowded.

• Use a bathroom. You will be arrested if you urinate in public.

OPERA

NOLA CULTURE GUIDE

Cultural Season Roundup 2024-2025

Another fall, another cultural season.

By Dean Shapiro

It seems like we say this every year, but it’s true and traditional. September is as much the kickoff month for the performing arts as it is for the New Orleans Saints and LSU football seasons. As this new cultural season opens, aficionados of opera, classical music, dance, and live theater will once again have a multitude of performances to choose from between September 2024 and July 2025.

Following is a listing, by category, of some of New Orleans’ premier presenting organizations offering two or more separate events for the season in “America’s First City of Culture.” Read on, plan your schedules accordingly, and enjoy.

NOTE: All venues listed are in New Orleans unless otherwise noted.

NEW ORLEANS OPERA ASSOCIATION

Mahalia Jackson Theater, 1419 Basin St. (504) 529-3000, neworleansopera.org

Tosca

Composer – Giacomo Puccini

September 27, 7:30 p.m. and September 29, 2:30 p.m.

Samson and Delilah in Concert Composer – Camille St. Saens

November 8, 7:30 p.m. and November 10, 2:30 p.m.

Opera on the Bayou: Voices of New Orleans, in partnership with the Electric Yat Quartet

February 5, 7:30 p.m.

Roussel Performance Hall, Loyola University 6363 St. Charles Ave.

The Elixir of Love

Composer – Gaetano Donizetti

April 4, 7:30 p.m. and April 6, 2:30 p.m.

*All mainstage operas are performed at the Mahalia Jackson Theater in Louis Armstrong Park, accompanied by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra except where otherwise noted. English translations are projected above the stage.

OPERACRÉOLE

(504) 356-3078, operacreole.com

A nonprofit, award-winning company, founded in 2011 by mother and daughter Givonna Joseph and Aria Mason, OperaCréole is dedicated to researching and performing lost or rarely performed works by composers of African descent, especially those from the 19th century.

*OperaCréole’s 2024-25 schedule has not been confirmed as of printing. For more information, consult the phone number or website.

CLASSICAL MUSIC

LOUISIANA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way (504) 523-6350, lpomusic.com

Selected highlights of the upcoming season at the Orpheum: Season Opener: Symphonie Fantastique/ The Sorcerer’s Apprentice September 12

Mozart, Haydn, & Strauss October 4

Pines of Rome

Featuring Venezuelan pianist Gabriela Martinez October 23

Gustav Holst’s The Planets November 15

An Evening with Kristin Chenoweth November 20

Holiday Spectacular December 5

Classical Christmas: Handel’s Messiah Excerpts December 19

Symphonic Dances from West Side Story January 16

Terence Blanchard’s A Tale of God’s Will (A Requiem for Katrina) January 18

Beethoven & Strauss

February 14

Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5

March 27

Mahler’s The Song of the Earth

April 17

Brahms’ Symphony No. 3

May 8

*All Orpheum concerts are at 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.

**Several “Family Concerts” are held at Loyola University’s Roussel Hall, and other LPO concerts are performed in St. Tammany Parish. For more information on the full slate of LPO offerings, visit the website.

NEW ORLEANS FRIENDS OF MUSIC

Dixon Hall, Tulane University (504) 895-0690, friendsofmusic.org

Le Consort

October 16

David Greilsammer, Piano

November 11

Dover Quartet

December 3

Isidore Quartet

February 10

Trio Virado

March 24

Escher Quartet with Terrence Wilson, Piano April 22

*Concerts are at 7:30 p.m.

SYMPHONY CHORUS OF NEW ORLEANS (504) 525-2111, symphonychorus.org

The Armed Man - A Mass for Peace by Karl Jenkins

October 27

Handel’s Messiah

December 13 and 15

Dan Forrest’s New Creation Oratorio Spring 2025, date TBA

(Untitled program of classical music with strings) Spring 2025, date TBA

*For more detailed information, visit Symphony Chorus’ website.

CRESCENT CITY

CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL

(646) 241-0303, crescentcitychambermusicfestival.com

Bach’s complete Brandenburg Concertos, featuring the Manhattan Chamber Players and the Gryphon Trio, from October 10-20, 2024.

Free Public Concert No. 1

Thursday, October 10, 7:30 p.m.

Trinity Episcopal Church, 1329 Jackson Ave.

Free Public Concert No. 2

Friday, October 11, 7:30 p.m.

Trinity Episcopal Church, 1329 Jackson Ave.

Free Public Concert No. 3

Sunday, October 13, 5:30 p.m. Felicity Church, 1220 Felicity St.

Free Public Concert No. 4

Monday, October 14, 7:30 p.m.

Dixon Concert Hall, Tulane University, Newcomb Circle

Free Public Concert No. 5

Wednesday, October 16, 7 p.m. Urban South Brewery, 1645 Tchoupitoulas St.

Free Public Concert No. 6

Friday, October 18, 7:30 p.m.

Saint Charles Avenue Presbyterian Church 1545 State St. (at St. Charles Ave.)

Free Public Concert No. 7

Sunday, October 20, 4 p.m.

Rayne Memorial United Methodist Church 3900 St. Charles Ave.

*Most of the concerts are preceded by a 30-minute talk and Q&A session.

MUSICAL ARTS SOCIETY OF NEW ORLEANS (504) 715-0818, masno.org

5th Annual Bachtoberfest featuring the Electric Yat Quartet and Pianist André Bohren

October 2, 6 p.m.

Margaret Place Hotel, 1133 Margaret Pl.

Nocturne XXI Gala featuring Pianist Olga Kern

October 6, 5 p.m.

The Ritz-Carlton, 921 Canal St.

Featuring Bass-Baritone Ivan Griffin and Pianist Wilfred Delphin with Special Guest Michael Boucree

November 3, 3 p.m.

Le Petit Salon, 1113 Chartres St.

Featuring Benjamin Partier-Leitus, Piano and Voice

November 21, 6 p.m.

Le Petit Salon, 4311 Coliseum St.

Concerto Showcase XII featuring Three Medalists from the 2024 International Piano Competition with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra

March 20, 7:30 p.m.

Roussel Performance Hall, Loyola University 6363 St. Charles Ave.

DANCE

NEW ORLEANS BALLET ASSOCIATION 935 Gravier St. (504) 522-0996, nobadance.com

Houston Ballet

October 19, 7:30 p.m.

Giordano Dance Chicago November 16, 7:30 p.m.

Ballet Hispanico’s CARMEN.maquia February 1, 7:30 p.m.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater March 21, 7:30 p.m. and March 22, 8 p.m.

*All performances are at the Mahalia Jackson Theater.

MARIGNY OPERA BALLET

Marigny Opera House, 725 St. Ferdinand St. (504) 948-9998, marignyoperahouse.org

Marigny Opera Ballet features nearly all local dancers, choreographers, and musicians and specializes in premiering or restaging original work. For information on the 2024-25 season, visit the website listed above.

MELANGE DANCE COMPANY

melangedanceofnola.com

Founded in 2014 by Founding Artistic Director Monica Ordonez and Executive Director Alexa Erck Lambert, Melange Dance Company “takes pride in presenting unique productions that are rich, diverse, and thought provoking.” For more information on their 2024-2025 season, visit the website.

Scan with your phone for the fall event lineup you don’t want to miss!

VISITNATCHEZ.ORG

SCAN HERE

NEW ORLEANS BALLET THEATRE

920 Terpsichore St., (504) 826-0646

neworleansballettheatre.com

Dracula

October 27, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.

October 30, 8 p.m.

The Nutcracker

December 13, 7 p.m.

December 14, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.

December 15, 2 p.m.

December 20, 7 p.m.

December 21, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.

December 22, 2 p.m.

December 23, 2 p.m.

Spring Mixed Repertoire (TBA)

Giselle

May 10, 8 p.m. May 11, 2 p.m.

*All NOBT performances are at the Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way.

LIVE THEATER

SAENGER THEATRE

Broadway in New Orleans 1111 Canal St.

1-800-218-7469, saengernola.com/shows

Girl from the North Country October 15-20

Beetlejuice

November 12-17

Elf December 3-8

The Cher Show December 17-22

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet

December 30 & Juliet January 14-19

Mamma Mia! February 11-16

Funny Girl March 11-16

Hamilton April 8-20

The Wiz May 13-18

Chicago June 10-15

*Show times vary.

LE PETIT THEATRE 616 St. Peter St., (504) 522-2081, lepetittheatre.com

Murder for Two October 3-20

Good Night, Oscar January 9-26

Jersey Boys March 13 to April 6

Doubt: A Parable May 1-18

Ain’t Misbehavin’ June 5-22

Coming Soon Coming Soon

*Show times vary.

JEFFERSON PERFORMING ARTS

Jefferson Performing Arts Center (JPAC) 6600 Airline Dr., Metairie

Westwego Performing Arts Theatre (WPAT) 177 Sala Ave., Westwego (504) 885-2000, jpas.org

School of Rock: The Musical September 13-22 (JPAC)

(Murder Mystery – to be announced) October 3-13 (WPAT)

Jekyll & Hyde October 25 to November 3 (JPAC)

The Leopard November 14-24 (WPAT)

Elf, Jr. December 13-15 (WPAT)

The Nutcracker December 21 & 22 (JPAC)

True West February 14-23 (WPAT)

Murder on the Nile February 14-23 (JPAC)

Joe & Marilyn March 13-23 (WPAT)

Billy Elliot: The Musical March 28 to April 6 (JPAC)

*Show times vary.

October

NOCTURNE

RIVERTOWN THEATERS FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

325 Minor St., Kenner, (504) 461-9475 rivertowntheaters.com

Hairspray, September 13-29

The Toxic Avenger, October 25 to November 10

Ricky Graham’s It’s a Wonderful Life, Y’all December 6-22

Xanadu, January 10-26

Once Upon a Mattress, March 14-30

Something Rotten! May 9-25

Annie July 10-20

TENNESSEE WILLIAMS THEATRE COMPANY (504) 264-2580, twtheatrenola.com

Penny Dreadfuls: The Remarkable RoomingHouse of Madame Le Monde September 13-28, Loyola University

Orpheus Descending Spring 2025, Loyola University

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof Summer 2025 (venue TBA)

THE NOLA PROJECT (504) 302-9117, nolaproject.com

The NOLA Project is a theatrical ensemble company consisting of about two dozen local actors “that strives to challenge, entertain, and engage diverse audiences through high-quality and innovative performances of relevant great works and the

development and production of new plays.” For more specific dates and detailed show information, as well as ticket orders, go to the website.

30 by Ninety Theatre

880 Lafayette St., Mandeville (844) 843-3090, 30byninety.com

Six: The Musical September 13-22

Murder on the Orient Express October 12-27

A Very Merry Christmas Spectacular December 6-15

A Midsummer Night’s Dream January 18 to February 2

The Play That Goes Wrong March 15-30

The Last Days of Judas Iscariot April 2 to May 11

Lucky Stiff June 14-29

*Show times vary. Call or check the website for information.

CUTTING EDGE THEATER

757 Robert Blvd., Slidell (985) 649-3727, cuttingedgetheater.com

Cutting Edge Theater is a professional, regional theater company serving Southeastern Louisiana. The company stages classic stage plays and musicals, as well as productions with a New Orleans angle. For more details about the 2024-25 season, call the number listed above or visit their website.

OTHER PERFORMING ARTS ORGANIZATIONS

There are other performing arts organizations in New Orleans (including those from the universities) whose full schedules were not finalized in time to be included in this listing. Here, listed alphabetically, is a handy list of some of those organizations, along with their websites, on which their schedules might now be posted.

ARTIVISM DANCE THEATRE: artivismdancetheatre.com

ASHE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER: ashecac.org

CONTEMPORARY ARTS CENTER: cacno.org

LOUIS MOREAU INSTITUTE: louismoreauinstitute.org

LOYOLA UNIVERSITY ARTS SERIES: cmm. loyno.edu or loyola-presents/all-list

LYRICA BAROQUE: lyricabaroque.com

MUSAICA CHAMBER ENSEMBLE: musaica.org

NEW ORLEANS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA: nolachamberorchestra.org

NEW ORLEANS CIVIC SYMPHONY: neworleanscivicsymphony.org

SYMPHONY OF NEW ORLEANS: symphonyofneworleans.com

UNIVERSITY OF NEW ORLEANS MUSICAL EXCURSIONS: new.uno.edu/sota-performances/ music

UNIVERSITY OF NEW ORLEANS THEATRE: new.uno.edu/sota-performances/theater

VERSIPEL NEW MUSIC: versipel.org

NOTE: Most of these arts organizations also have a presence on Facebook and/or other social media, and information can be obtained from these sites as well.

TASTE THE LOUISIANA HEAT

On restaurant tables and store shelves throughout the world, you can find Tabasco pepper sauce, which traveled all the way from Avery Island, Louisiana to be there.

The historic brand’s fans and heat seekers flock to Avery Island, almost on the Gulf Coast shoreline, just to see how the tangy sauce is made.

The first thing to note is that Avery Island is not an island. It’s a salt dome that appears to rise up like a steep hill not easily found in Louisiana. The highest point is 163 feet above sea level and is two and a half miles across for a total of 2,200 acres. The solid rock salt column is thought to be deeper than Mt. Everest is tall.

The History of Tabasco at Avery Island

By Emily Hingle

The land, with hearty soil and valuable salt, was home to Native Americans for thousands of years. Part of Ile Petite Anse (now Avery Island) was claimed by land grant recipient Dr. Antoine Coiron in the late 1700s, and he was soon followed by other French and Spanish settlers. In 1818, New Jersey native John Craig Marsh purchased the bottom half of the domed area for sugarcane planting. By 1849, he sold his estate to his son George Marsh and two sons-in-law, Ashbel Burnham Henshaw and Daniel Dudley Avery, who was the husband of Marsh’s daughter Sarah Craig Marsh. D. D.

Avery bought out Henshaw a few years later, and the island eventually became known by his name.

Edmund McIlhenny was born in 1815 in Hagerstown, Maryland, and he moved to New Orleans in 1841 (aged 26) to enter the booming financial industry. He was a prosperous independent banker when he met Mary Eliza Avery, the daughter of D. D. Avery, and they married in 1859.

The Civil War upended life in the South and left once burgeoning cities in financial ruin. The Averys and McIlhennys were unsure of what their future would hold as their various interests were no longer viable. What happened next is highly debated.

McIlhenny began growing Capsicum frutescens on Avery Island, but it is not clear where he got the seeds or plants from originally. There are stories about how a Mexican-American War veteran named Gleason gave the seeds to McIlhenny, while some say maybe it was a Confederate soldier. Perhaps even McIlhenny came across the pepper plant already growing on the island after it was blown in from a neighboring property.

Several researchers have pointed to Irish immigrant Col. Maunsel White, owner of Deer Range Plantation, as the person who began growing these peppers in the area and making a pepper sauce with them. He also gave away seeds to friends. Though there is no known direct link between Col. White and McIlhenny, there are some distant professional links between the Averys and White.

Col. White sold bottles of Concentrated Essence of Tabasco Pepper in New Orleans stores before McIlhenny created the Tabasco brand. Edmund wrote to his wife Mary in 1870, “Mr. Henning has the M.W. for sale. [It is] indifferently put up, and I was surprised to find that the colored pulp settles down more than half, leaving a muddy looking fluid above. There is a row of it on Henning’s shelves just beneath mine, and the contrast in style and appearance is decidedly in my favor, and Henning says he sells 25 of mine where he sells one of the M.W.”

McIlhenny harvested the first commercial crop of peppers and officially founded The McIlhenny Company in 1868. McIlhenny’s recipe was different from other sauces in that he macerated the peppers, mixed the pulp with salt, and aged it in de-charred whiskey barrels sealed with salt. The aged mash was then mixed with high-quality distilled vinegar, strained, and bottled. The peppers were plucked from the plants based on their vibrant red color if it matched the tone of a red-painted stick, which is still used today.

Tabasco spread like wildfire over the nation and internationally. Cities along the Gulf Coast were the first recipients of McIlhenny’s Tabasco pepper sauce with 658 bottles being sold in

1869. Distant Avery relative John. C. Henshaw marketed the sauce in the Northeastern U.S., and he secured an order for 10,500 bottles in 1872. Currently, about 700,000 bottles are filled daily.

A visit to the factory takes you through a museum filled with Tabasco history and memorabilia. You can enter a greenhouse to see the peppers up close, marvel at the warehouse full of barrels, then take a whiff of the aromatic blending room. On weekdays, visitors can see the bottling process in action. McIlhenny family members run the company and ensure quality and consistency to this day.

After experiencing some history, you can head to Tabasco Restaurant 1886 for some Tabasco-infused food and Bloody Marys. Tabasco-infused ice cream is a great way to cool off in the warmer months. The second part of the Avery Island experience is a drive around the gorgeous Jungle Gardens, created by McIlhenny’s son Edward Avery McIlhenny when he took over for his brother John in 1898. Edward, a prolific adventurer and wildlife enthusiast, worked to preserve bird populations on Avery Island that were in danger of becoming extinct. He transformed 170 acres of Avery Island into a wildlife sanctuary and a place to grow exotic plants he collected from the world over. Driving around the sprawling Jungle Gardens allows you to experience thriving wildlife and see the unique texture of the salt dome. Bird City teems with egrets and other migratory fowl during the warm months, but you’ll see alligators, rabbits, and deer year-round.

Avery Island is a unique piece of Louisiana culture and enterprise.

LA BOUNTY

By Brooke Adams

Fall Farm Visits In and Around New Orleans

In the city of abundance, world-class food and live music draws in thousands of people every day; however, the Crescent City also offers a different type of abundance for food enthusiasts—a rich tapestry of agricultural experiences that are perfect for a fall visit.

From urban farms to sprawling agricultural lands, here are some must-visit farms that showcase the unique blend of New Orleans’ community spirit and commitment to

Grow On Urban Farms stands out as a beacon of sustainability and community engagement in the heart of New Orleans. This farm offers a unique experience that combines urban farming with educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist, Grow On Urban Farms provides a chance to immerse yourself in the local agriculture scene. The farm offers insightful tours that educate visitors on sustainable farming practices and the importance of urban agriculture. Visitors can also participate in farming activities, giving a practical understanding of how food is grown and harvested in an urban setting. You can also

Grow On Urban Farms also welcomes volunteers. Donating your time offers the opportunity to not only help but also partake in educational experiences first hand. Volunteer tasks can include seeding, weeding, mulching, compost building, cleanups, and much more. They also offer a Give & Get Program, in which volunteers have the option to exchange vegetables and plants for your help. Each hour amounts to a $10 credit that can be applied to

Situated in scenic City Park, Grow Dat Youth Farm is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders through programs oriented around sustainable agriculture. Each year on Grow Dat’s seven-acre farm, 70 young leaders and a host of adults, who are passionate about food justice and environmental stewardship, share in the collective work of growing 50,000 pounds of food for the local community. Grow Dat also offers Farm Shares through their Community Supported Agriculture program, which runs from November to June. For 29 weeks, members enjoy weekly chemical-free, fresh produce while investing in the farm and

As stewards of the land since 2011, Grow Dat offers school field trips, general visits, and history of the land tours. The farm is an ideal location for school groups, with trips including a farm tour and hands-on learning stations such as scavenger hunts, bird watching, and nature art. Activities are tailored to different age groups, ensuring an engaging and educational experience for all. The general visits can be done through a learning tour designed for college students, and adults not in school, offering a comprehensive overview of the farm’s sustainable practices and community programs. For those interested in a deeper dive, the tour can include participation in agricultural tasks. Lastly, Grow Dat offers public History of the Land tours throughout the year, which delve into the rich social and environmental history of the land, covering topics from Indigenous land stewardship to stories of enslavement and rebellion to contemporary land use. The tour concludes with a dialogue that encourages participants to

OTHER LOCAL FARMS TO EXPLORE

While the those farms are highlights, Louisiana has several other farms worth exploring, particularly in the fall when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. Some notable mentions include:

Growing Local NOLA | 1750 Carondelet St.

Growing Local NOLA is a community food and farm center in the Central City neighborhood of New Orleans where students can visit a real working urban farm and community garden. Visitors can meet chickens, tour a unique growing system that raises fish and plants together, and learn more about growing fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables. They also offer herb and plant identification games and a scavenger hunt.

Kemp Farms | 38511 Weiss Rd., Denham Springs

Kemp Farms presents a true farming experience, offering guests the chance to milk a cow, bottle feed a calf, hold chickens, feed a donkey, see pigs and/or sows, pet a rabbit, enjoy a hayride, and plant a seed.

Perilloux Farm | 17834 River Rd., Montz

This farm offers a quaint and educational visit where you can learn about sustainable farming techniques and enjoy the serene farm environment. Every fall, they offer hayrides and sell their 100-year-old heirloom native pumpkins.

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin and Strawberry Patch | 31458 LA-43, Albany

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin and Strawberry Patch offers educational tours of their strawberry and pumpkin patches. Mixed within these operations, there are other agricultural educational activities for the guests to enjoy.

Cajun Country Corn Maze | 40833 LA-16, Amite

Louisiana Maze is open to visitors in the fall. The Cajun Country Corn Maze aims to offer visitors the chance to learn about the food and fiber produced on farms in Louisiana, while celebrating Cajun heritage and Louisiana culture.

EMBRACE THE SEASON

Fall in Louisiana is the perfect time to get out there and explore the agricultural richness surrounding New Orleans. The cooler weather makes it perfect for farm tours, and the harvest season brings an abundance of fresh produce to enjoy. Visiting these farms not only supports local agriculture but also provides a deeper connection to the food you eat. Whether you’re looking for an educational trip for school children, a hands-on farming experience, or a peaceful escape, the farms in and around New Orleans offer something for everyone.

FOOD NEWS

By Kim Ranjbar

As dreamers do The long-awaited Étoile opened this past summer, finally filling the stunning historic mansion left vacant after the closing of Cavan in 2021. Originally from New Orleans, Chef Chris Dupont (of Dupont’s Restaurant in Birmingham, Alabama) returned to his hometown to open Étoile, a “farm-to-table” fine-dining restaurant on Magazine Street. The mansion-turned-restaurant now sports a more polished look on the inside and exclusively offers diners a seven-course tasting menu at $110 per person with dishes such as tomato gazpacho with ginger carrot and pesto, a goat cheese soufflé, seared Waygu beef with pomme frites, and petit fours for dessert. 3607 Magazine St., (504) 582-9920, etoileorleans.com

She’s not a myth … A new seafood restaurant dubbed Seawitch recently opened on St. Charles. It’s located in the building that once housed Blind Pelican, a popular spot to score 25 cent oysters and cheap beer that closed in 2018 amid an ugly dispute between the restaurant’s owners. Glistening after a much-needed renovation, the space was reopened as Seawitch by hospitality industry veterans Jude Marullo and Claude Mauberret. Chef Richard Bickford (husband of Commander’s Palace’s Executive Chef Meg Bickford) is leading the kitchen at Seawitch, offering a menu with a heavy focus on oysters, including Gulf-born-beauties on the half shell with a mignonette, and a “shuckcuterie” board featuring panko fried and tequila oyster shooters—plus a full menu featuring everything from filet mignon finger sandwiches and blue crab toast to smoked chicken and andouille gumbo. 1628 St. Charles Ave., (504) 264-7600, @seawitchnola

Is it Tuesday yet? … Entrepreneurs Danny Cruz and Vilexys Salas launched Tacos del Cartel in the South Market District early this past summer. The colorful, highlyInstagrammable, high-end taco joint on Girod Street is already making a huge splash featuring corn tortillas made in-house using their own masa. Be prepared to pay a pretty penny for dishes such as the Cartel Guacamole featuring Angus rib eye chicharron, a “green” ceviche with red snapper, octopus, and watermelon, tortilla soup with queso fresco, and duck confit carnitas tacos with a spicy tamarind sauce. One of the coolest (literally) items on the menu is their Carrito de Feria, an adorable little cart serving fresh-fried churros dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with dipping sauces and ice cream. The dynamic duo plan to open a second Tacos del Cartel soon in Metairie on David Drive, so keep your Tuesdays open. 1010 Girod St., (504) 354-9038, tacosdelcartel.com

Pepper steak? … After 47 years in business, local denizens were truly bummed to see Riccobono’s Peppermill in Metairie close in the fall of 2023, but things keep on keeping on. Just this past June, Vacca Steakhouse opened in the beloved location on Severn Avenue, launched by partners Jonathan Brisbi and Darrell Dumestre; however, well-known local hospitality veterans are running the show. Hotel Monteleone’s Tim Waguespack is at the front of the house and Chef Carmen Provenzano Jr. (from Uptown restaurant Pascal’s Manale) is leading the kitchen. Though it looks like the old Peppermill (other than the signage) on the outside, Vacca offers an updated dining room with a more modern look. Mostly open for dinner, the new steakhouse’s menu is centered around, well, steak—prime angus beef to be exact, accompanied by dishes such as fried lobster tail, shrimp fra diavolo, Chilean sea bass, and crab cakes. 3524 Severn Ave., Metairie, (504) 318-3808, vaccasteakhouse.com

Witchy women … A coven of skilled local chefs recently launched Tatlo, a restaurant and absinthe bar inside the Old Absinthe Bar on Bourbon Street. Cristina Quackenbush (Milkfish), Anh Luu (Bywater Brewpub, @XanhNOLA, and Tapalya), and Haley Vanvleet (@smokedbowls and BELLE Epoque) have combined their spiritual energies to create the new witch-inspired spot located in what was originally a female-only space, a former bar where ladies could go to refresh before women were legally allowed to patronize drinking establishments in New Orleans in 1949. Tatlo (which means three in the Filipino language) offers “divine” drinks and dishes, conjured specifically to manifest that which you need, including Paper Magick (a beef tartare with lemongrass and shiso that boosts prosperity and success) and the Four of Swords (a smashed longganisa, or Filipino sweet sausage, patty with Fontina and crispy onion said to promote rest, relaxation, and recuperation). The spirited space also features a variety of absinthes (including a full service) and absinthe-based cocktails such as the Spell Breaker with elderflower, pineapple, and calamansi (a Filipino lemon/lime hybrid), symbolizing endings and rebirth. 240 Bourbon St., @TatloNOLA

Jack’s back … Local chef and restaurateur Jack Petronella has been biding his time baking at Maple Street Patisserie; however, as the storefront recently closed (they’re still selling wholesale), Petronella has set his sights on a new location just down the block. Launched this past July, Eats Inc. is located in the building that formerly housed the Swap Boutique and is a “cost-conscious” amalgam of his former restaurants ManhattanJack and Altamura, as well as the Maple Street Patisserie, featuring grab-n-go items like Italian subs and pasta bowls along with croissants and morning buns. 7716 Maple St.

Seawitch

Étoile

Tatlo

Étoile

NOW OPEN

RESTAURANT GUIDE

AMERICAN

Bearcat Café is a top brunch spot, serving vegan huevos rancheros and gluten-free mushroom soft scramble. Whether you’re in the mood for a short stack, savory breakfast potatoes, or eggs served any way, Bearcat Café has you covered. Multiple Locations, bearcatcafe.com

Cause and the Cure NOLA is a new restaurant serving smash burgers, NYC-style chopped cheese sandwiches, and Korean-style corn dogs served with a variety of house-made sauces including their chimi sauce. 2540 Banks St., instagram.com/causeandthecurenola

Crescent City Steaks, New Orleans’ oldest family-owned steakhouse since 1934, boasts a true old-school vibe. Their New Orleansstyle steak, cooked perfection, is generously doused with butter, spice, and everything nice. 1001 N. Broad St., (504) 821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com

Daisy Dukes is a must-visit Southern spot offering all-day breakfast, delicious drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere. They boast awardwinning Cajun Bloody Marys, voted the best of its kind four years in a row. Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com

Gattuso’s Neighborhood Restaurant & Bar is all about friendly service and offers plentiful outdoor seating. An extensive menu, featuring burgers, sandwiches, clubs, and more, ensures there’s something for everyone. 435 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna, (504) 368-1114, gattusos.net

Jimmy J’s Café is a quaint New Orleans joint, perfect for a show-stopping breakfast or ending the night with a signature cocktail. Its intimate ambiance includes vibrant stained-glass walls—a prelude to the flavorful fare within. 115 Chartres St., (504) 309-9360, jimmyjscafe.com

Larder Gourmet Market + Eatery serves breakfast at any time of day, so try their French toast casserole and Bananas Foster pancakes. Grab a baked good or settle in with friends for a leisurely meal. 3005 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, (504) 766-6157, lardereatery.com

Legacy Kitchen’s Steak and Chop lures diners in with lunch specials and a happy hour. The Southern steakhouse boasts generous servings, friendly staff, and a selection of meats. Order their crawfish bread to start. 91 Westbank Expy., Gretna, (504) 513-2606, legacykitchen.com

Luke boasts top-notch service, a decadent dining room, and worldly cuisine that will make every diner feel like a true Creole king. Their delicious French, German, and Creole blended cuisine will keep you coming back. 333 St. Charles Ave., (504) 378-2840, lukeneworleans.com

New Orleans Vampire Café is a fang-tastic spot in the French Quarter. The café specializes in NOLA cuisine and vampire-themed dishes. Try their “blood-bag drinks,” which are 8 oz. medical blood bags filled with vampire fangria. 801 Royal St., (504) 581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com

NOLA Steak, the classic and delicious steakhouse located in Boomtown Casino, is a carnivore’s dream. For a hearty meal, order the baked potato, filled with generous, delicious toppings, and an 8 oz. filet as its pair. 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (885) 805-5596, boomtownneworleans.com

Spudly’s Super Spuds is known for its stand-out potatoes. The Spud comes served in countless ways, so your starchy base can include crab meat, shrimp, cheese, bacon— really, whatever you can dream up. 2609 Harvard Ave., Metairie, (504) 455-3250, spudlys.com

The Country Club, in the Bywater, has an elegant landscape, a beautiful pool, and impressive mixology. This unique spot hosts drag brunches every weekend, perfectly complemented by a Creole-American menu. 634 Louisa St., (504) 945-0742, thecountryclubneworleans.com

The Rendon is a classic dive bar with bites to accompany the exciting atmosphere. With classic bar bites, including chips and dip, loaded nachos, fries almost any way, po-boys, pasta, steaks, and pizzas, you will eat well while there. 4501 Eve St., (504) 218-7106, therendon504.com

Vampire Apothecary Restaurant and Bar is a whimsical spot where the menu will transport you to another realm. Enjoy their fanciful plating and twists on well-loved classics, and make sure to visit their in-house psychics. 725 St. Peter St., (504) 766-8179, vampireapothecary.com

Voodoo Chicken and Daiquiris is a quintessentially New Orleanian stop-in spot. The joint boasts crispy chicken alongside a rainbow of fresh fruit daiquiris, best suited for cooling your taste buds after the heat. Multiple Locations, voodoochickenanddaiquirisnola.com

ASIAN

Asia, located in Boomtown Casino, can be your delicious break from the slot machines. With many classic soups, noodles, and fried dishes, their simple menu includes only perfected Chinese and Vietnamese classics. 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (504) 364-8812, boomtownneworleans.com

Mikimoto Restaurant in Mid-City serves delicious Japanese flavors, including generous sushi rolls, in their cozy space. They even have a convenient drive-thru window for your late-night sushi take-out endeavors. 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1881, mikimotosushi.com

TD Seafood and Phở House is a stand-out Vietnamese restaurant that is worth crossing into the Westbank for. For those itching for a phở fix, head to this spot, with its wide selection of flavors and delicious broth. 1028 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey, (504) 302-1727, tdseafoodphohouse.com

Thai’d Up, a spot serving authentic and colorful dishes made from scratch, will transport you straight to Thailand. Every dish is colorfully seasoned, cooked to perfection, and will make your stomach satisfied. 1839 Gentilly Blvd., (504) 354-8202, thaidupla.com

BARS WITH GREAT FOOD

Backspace Bar & Kitchen is a great place to hang out with friends while enjoying tasty bar bites and refreshing drinks. Enjoy delicious appetizers including boudin balls, popcorn chicken, and bacon cheese fries. 139 Chartres St., (504) 322-2245, facebook.com/ backspacenola

Bamboula’s is a Frenchman Street stable equipped with great food and amazing live music. The interior is timeless and their classic Southern bar bites with flair are guaranteed to give you comfort and good vibes. 516 Frenchmen St., (504) 346-8300, bamboulasmusic.com

Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant is a classic neighborhood bar that has been transforming visitors into bar rats since 1939. Live music coupled with dark red paneled walls provides Buffa’s with good music and great vibes. 1001 Esplanade Ave., (504) 949-0038, buffasbar.com

JB’s Fuel Dock, in the scenic Lakefront neighborhood near Lake Pontchartrain, is the go-to spot for boaters and foodies alike. Offering great sandwiches, pizzas, and an unbeatable view, it’s the perfect place to fuel up your

soul. 126 S. Roadway St., (504) 510-2260, jbsfueldock. com

Le Bon Temps Roule is an Uptown bar steeped in tradition, as well as local culture and experiences. Famous for live music and Bloody Marys, each night is a celebration and a great excuse to order a drink or two. 4801 Magazine St., (504) 8973448, lbtrnola.com

Stumpy’s Hatchet House is every funlover’s dream. With a plethora of games from hatchet throwing to massive Jenga, release your anger and indulge in some friendly competition over their full bar menu. 1200 Poydras St., (504) 577-2937, stumpyshh. com/neworleansla

The Garage is the perfect escape for nightlife and music lovers alike. Indulge in a generously sized concoction with their iconic fishbowls. The Garage also hosts karaoke nights every Wednesday and Thursday. 810 Conti St., (504) 603-6343, facebook.com/ thegaragemusicclub

The Jimani is a famous New Orleans sports bar that encompasses everything one would want in a dive bar: a building with a storied past,

El Gato Negro

cold beer, great music, sports on the TV, and mouthwatering bar eats. 141 Chartres St., (504) 524-0493, thejimani.com

CAFÉ

Café

Amelie, inside one of New Orleans’ most iconic facades, is perfect for brunch, which is served Thursday through Sunday. In light of the history it honors, the café serves New Orleans classics including gumbo and muffalettas. 900 Royal St., (504) 412-8065, cafeamelie.com

Carmo specializes in tropical, healthy cuisine with influences from Southeast Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Every Friday and Saturday, they host live music for an experience as rich as the flavors on your plate. 527 Julia St., (504) 875-4132, cafecarmo.com

Crack’D has an interior that resembles your stylish grandmother’s house, as well as hearty and delicious cuisine. Their menu offers brunch classics with New Orleans twists that are served on pretty and dainty plates. 1901 Sophie Wright Pl., (504) 381-4678, crackdbrunch.com

Surrey’s Café & Juice Bar serves breakfast and has artwork of shotgun houses lining the blue and pink colored walls. The Bananas Foster French Toast, with cream cheese blend on the

inside, is a must-have item. 1418 Magazine St., (504) 524-3828, surreysnola.com

The Vintage, loved for its beignets, is a delicious spot to grab brunch or indulge in a sweet happy hour. The nostalgic atmosphere boasts white honeycomb tiles and industrial bars serving liquor and coffee separately. 3121 Magazine St., (504) 608-1008, thevintagenola.com

Willa Jean is a hipster café that serves an expansive coffee menu, as well as a plethora of pastries from cakes to cookies. Their prepared menu is just as enticing, filled with flavorful morning cravings. 611 O’Keefe Ave., (504) 509-7334, willajean.com

CARIBBEAN

Palm & Pine offers a daring menu with fusion food inspired by the South and the Caribbean. Their menu, which changes seasonally, features plates from coconut-blackened Gulf fish to Texas BBQ shrimp. 308 N. Rampart St., (504) 8146200, palmandpinenola.com

Jamaican Jerk House brings true Jamaican flavor and authenticity to New Orleans. The canary yellow building with bright green accents embodies the bright flavors of its Caribbean dishes. 4017 St. Claude Ave., (504) 441-8905, facebook. com/p/Jamaican-Jerk-House

FRENCH

King Brasserie and Bar offers a modern atmosphere paired with creative coastal cuisine. The menu boasts sea favorites along with an impressive wine menu and draft beer from across the nation. 521 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 3243000, kingbrasserieandbar.com

Restaurant August boasts a French-Creole design to match the cultural origins of the cuisine. This spot serves extravagant plates, including their mouth-watering barbecue escargot and pan-seared striped bass. 301 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 299-9777, restaurantaugust.com

ITALIAN

Domenica is an upscale restaurant that boasts tradition and innovation. With a name translating to “Sunday” in Italian, the day of the week when cooking is most valued in Italian tradition, the restaurant’s commitment is clear. 123 Baronne St., (504)-648-6020, domenicarestaurant.com

Mosca’s Restaurant offers the kind of hospitality that brings back memories of eating at grandma’s table. They prepare every authentic dish to order and have options to share family style. 4137 US Highway 90 W., Westwego, (504) 436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com

Pizza Domenica, with a rustic interior, boasts a casual and fun atmosphere that is the perfect crowd-pleaser. The menu features daring pizzas from tutto carne to funghe e salsiccia with mushrooms, salami, egg, and mozzarella. Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com

U Pizza is a hip pizza spot celebrating a modern twist on Italian traditions. U Pizza serves reasonably priced, light, and airy pizzas that are perfect for take-out or a quick and comforting family lunch. 1513 St. Charles Ave., (504) 381-4232, upizzanola.com

Venezia has a menu that features the classics you crave: succulent seafood, sizzling steaks,

800 LOUISA ST.

RESTAURANT GUIDE

delightful pasta, and authentic pizzas. Their red and white tablecloths are stylish, and their wine list is worth checking out. 134 N. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-7991, venezianeworleans.com

LATIN

Alma Café serves modern Honduran cuisine with a casual atmosphere. Their interior gives homage to its Latin roots, setting the scene for the extravagant flair and impressive diversity found within the menu. 800 Louisa St., (504) 381-5877, eatalmanola.com

Brasa South American Steakhouse is an Old Metairie favorite with a brand-new location in Downtown New Orleans. Under the expertise of Colombian-born Chef Edgar Caro, Brasa honors tradition with open-fire cooking and a dry-aging process. Multiple Locations, brasasteak.com

8AM-3-PM

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Tapas e Vino offers authentic cuisine that will transport you to a terrace in Spain. The menu boasts Spanish staples, including wine and small shareables. The bar brings a unique flair with an emphasis on live jazz music. 516 Frenchmen St., (504) 346-8300, tapasevino.com

MEXICAN

El Gato Negro offers authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine in both New Orleans and Gretna. The restaurant has a long list of high quality tequila to enjoy, and their margaritas are made with freshly squeezed fruit juice. Multiple Locations, elgatonegronola.com

MIDDLE EASTERN

Lebanon’s Café is a quaint Uptown restaurant with some of the best-rated Middle Eastern food in the city. The casual spot specializes in its homemade hummus and chicken shawarma, along with other classic dishes. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com

Shaya encompasses true New Orleans charm and hospitality while serving up Israeli staples. The Uptown-based restaurant’s interior resembles a bright and airy home, while their cuisine emphasizes authentic flair. 4213 Magazine St., (504) 891-4213, shayarestaurant.com

NEW ORLEANS CUISINE

Crescent City Brewhouse offers a modern twist on Louisiana classics. This restaurant has fresh and delicate dishes that are top notch. With gorgeous balcony seating overlooking downtown, expect good vibes there. 527 Decatur St., (504) 522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse. com

Desire Oyster Bar, conveniently located on Bourbon Street, is the perfect kick-start to your New Orleans night. The interior will transport you to a different era all while enjoying Cajun and Creole classics. 300 Bourbon St., (504) 5532281, sonesta.com

Evangeline is a social spot to enjoy authentic New Orleans cuisine. The spot is divey, with conversation and drinks at every corner. Emphasizing fresh ingredients and local flavors, their dishes are cooked to perfection. 329 Decatur St., (504) 373-4852, evangelineneworleans.com

Headquarters by Nice Guys Nola, new to the Warehouse District, caters to New Orleans’ lively culture. A fusion of a bar and an event space, it offers a unique menu, cocktails, and a vibrant ambiance that locals will love. 445 S. Rampart St., (504) 217-6851

House of Blues New Orleans is one of the most happening restaurants and bars in the city. The spot offers cozy eats, creative cocktails, and live music with an emphasis on local musicians and big names alike. 225 Decatur St., (504) 310-4999, houseofblues.com/neworleans

Annunciation Restaurant specializes in newage Creole and Southern cuisine, complemented by an atmosphere that invites celebration and conversation. Their menu provides refined comfort food to all who enter. 1016 Annunciation St., (504) 568-0245, annunciationrestaurant.com

Apolline Restaurant is a Magazine Street favorite restaurant that specializes in local ingredients. Situated in a renovated double shotgun cottage, the spot has the perfect ambiance for elegant NOLA cuisine. 4729 Magazine St., (504) 894-8881, apollinerestaurant.com

Café Normandie specializes in New Orleansinspired French cuisine. Every chair is adorned with a fleur de lis, perfectly capturing the essence of the establishment. Their perfected classics will entice you. 1000 Magazine St., (504) 5281941, higginshotelnola.com

Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop serves cozy Louisiana cuisine to visitors and locals alike. Critically acclaimed Chef Ron spotlights tradition and New Orleans roots with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, (504) 835-2022, gumbostop.com

Kingfish emphasizes true New Orleans tradition in both their hospitality and cuisine. The interior boasts a wrap-around bar, where conversation, cocktails, and good food meet. Try their Louisiana crab cakes. 337 Chartres St., (504) 5985005, kingfishneworleans.com

Lakeview Harbor serves up classic comfort food right on the harbor for a homey feel near Lake Pontchartrain. The seafood eatery specializes in big portions and fried indulgences for all your comfort food craving needs. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 486-4887, lakeviewharbor.us

Li’l Dizzy’s Café brings unmatched familyowned hospitality to Creole soul cuisine, perfecting their recipes through four generations of Creole cooking. For some of the best fried chicken in New Orleans, head to Li’l Dizzy’s. 1500 Esplanade Ave., (504) 766-8687, lildizzyscafe.net

Loretta’s Authentic Pralines is renowned for all things sweet, delicious, and nutty, with founder Loretta Harrison celebrated as the “Queen of Pralines.” One specialty is their chewy cookie with a dollop of sweet potato filling. Multiple Locations, lorettaspralines.com

Mandina’s Restaurant, family-owned for four

Neyow's Creole Café

RESTAURANT GUIDE

generations, was opened by Anthony and Frank Mandina in 1932. The New Orleans influence on the restaurant is clear as Mandina’s specializes in Creole Italian fusion dishes. 3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com

Melba’s, coined Louisiana’s busiest po-boy shop, offers a bustling, casual, and fun take on the typical po-boy restaurant. They even have a laundromat attached to the restaurant and offer free book giveaways and signings. 1525 Elysian Fields Ave., (504) 267-7765, melbas.com

Meril offers fun and good food in Downtown New Orleans. Specializing in New American cuisine, their dishes have a great range. The interior is modern and elevated, perfect for a celebration. 424 Girod St., (504) 526-3745, emerilsrestaurants.com/meril

Mother’s Restaurant, serving the city’s best baked ham, is where fresh New Orleans cuisine meets comfort and casual dining. The spot boasts a comforting breakfast with omelets and grits served all day. 401 Poydras St., (504) 5239656, mothersrestaurant.net

New Orleans Creole Cookery boasts a beautiful courtyard and true Southern charm—the perfect complement to their exemplary cuisine. Try their Taste of New Orleans entrée, featuring an assortment of classics. 510 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com

Neyow’s Creole Café has a charming atmosphere, an expansive bar, and delicious Creole-style comfort food. The spot boasts true hospitality and traditional New Orleans cuisine. Save room for their fantastic desserts. 3332 Bienville St., (504) 827-5474, neworleans. neyows.com

Alma Café

Neyow’s XL is a fun-loving spot specializing in fresh seafood and fine dining. Their drink special, the XL French, features a giant-sized champagne glass, which perfectly captures the essence of this spot. 3336 Bienville St., (504) 503-1081, xl.neyows.com

Nice Guys NOLA is a spot for good drinks and even better Louisiana and bar comfort food. With a massive sign reading “Nice Guys, Bad Girls,” the restaurant is rowdy and perfect for dancing, singing, and celebration. 7910 Earhart Blvd., (504) 302-2404, niceguysnola.com

Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro is in the building that housed New Orleans’ first Creole restaurant. Soak in history, indulge in its authentic Creole cuisine, and sip on Orleans Grapevine’s impressive wine. 720 Orleans Ave., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com

Parkway Bakery and Tavern offers an oldschool, eclectic feel where conversations and

Louisiana’s

drinks blend seamlessly. The spot serves many po-boys, such as fried Creole BBQ shrimp, surf and turf, and a homemade roast beef with gravy. 538 Hagan Ave., (504) 482-3047, parkwaypoorboys.com

Please-U-Restaurant is a sweet spot with a cozy feel, serving delicious New Orleans breakfasts and hot lunches with a Greek twist. The menu is inspired by the Greek entrepreneurs who founded the establishment in 1946. 51 St. Charles Ave., (504) 525-9131, pleaseunola.com

Sala Nola is a great Lakeview restaurant that offers an assortment of tasty entrées, including a golden fried fish almondine. Choose from a list of specialty cocktails including a frozen peach Bellini and a coconut mojito. 124 Lake Marina Ave., (504) 513-2670, salanola.com

Short Stop Poboys, located off of Airline Highway, is exactly as the name implies. Walk up to the counter to order and sit down to eat. They feature po-boys, jambalaya, gumbo, and more. 119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com

SEAFOOD

Blue Bayou Restaurant and Oyster Bar offers a refined ambiance and fresh seafood. The exposed bar makes for a social interaction between the kitchen and customers. Order classics such as oysters, crawfish, and more. 717 Canal St., (504) 517-2653, bluebayourestaurantnola.com

Briquette presents a refined and lively atmosphere with a contemporary approach to seafood-centric dining. The spot features an open

kitchen ambiance, where diners can watch chefs prepare their fresh cuisine. 701 S. Peters St., (504) 302-7496, briquette-nola.com

Drago’s Seafood Restaurant is famed for its original charbroiled oysters and extensive menu, promising well-loved classics. Familyowned since 1969, Drago’s continues to deliver favorites including seafood pasta, gumbo, and stuffed lobster. Multiple Locations, dragosrestaurant.com

Legacy Kitchen’s Tacklebox serves up American seafood dishes with a twist. This eatery offers a uniquely modern experience. Enjoy crafted cocktails, social plates, classic soups, po-boys, Southern comfort plates, and more. 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com

Middendorf’s Restaurant specializes in thin-sliced, crispy fried catfish and other seafood dishes. The eatery has a familyfriendly atmosphere and weekly specials. Experience what’s been bringing locals back again for decades. Multiple Locations, middendorfsrestaurant.com

Seaworthy is an intimately charming upscale oyster bar located in the heart of the French Quarter. The refined nautical interior perfectly complements its delectable and fresh cuisine and enticing drinks. 630 Carondelet St., (504) 930-3071, seaworthynola.com

The Galley Seafood offers expertly prepared seafood dishes as an ode to Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage. They’re known for their superb soft-shell crab and fried catfish filet po-boys, which are both served at Jazz Fest. 2535 Metairie Rd., Metairie, (504) 832-0955

The Louisiana Food & Wine Festival is a showcase of Louisiana’s unique culture and cuisine, from its culinary superstars and beverage experts to its artisans and live music. Enjoy a variety of all-inclusive food and drink tasting events with celebrity guest chefs and hundreds of varieties of wine, beer and spirits.

FILM REVIEWS

Trap

M.Night Shyamalan’s new thriller Trap is a mostly engaging film that stumbles at its conclusion.

Josh Hartnett plays Cooper, a seemingly good dad who brings his tween daughter (Ariel Donoghue) to a concert for pop superstar Lady Raven (Saluki Shyamalan); however, there is a substantial police presence at the concert. This is because authorities have reason to believe a serial killer called “The Butcher” is at the concert. Viewers quickly learn that Cooper is “The Butcher.”

Cooper then has to try to find a way to escape the arena undetected without his daughter becoming too suspicious. Props to the film’s marketing team for creating a trailer featuring only scenes from the first 30-45 minutes or so in an era where so many trailers reveal too much.

Hartnett does a good job in the lead, hitting the right note of coming across as friendly but also a little bit off. Shyamalan also remains a strong visual artist. Even his worst films still look good and Trap does as well. In an era where so many movies are so predictable, much of Trap leaves you unsure of where exactly it is headed. But while Trap runs just 105 minutes, it

Borderlands

Thanks to social media, Eli Roth’s Borderlands was thoroughly trashed before it was even released. There were reports of re-shoots, and the original screenwriter took his name off the project. Also, fans of the video game on which the movie is based cried foul because of the casting, the look of the characters, and the screenplay.

Now that it is out in cinemas, it isn’t getting a fair shake considering that it has a paltry score of 9% on the dubious Rotten Tomatoes. It’s not that bad. In fact, it’s modestly entertaining and acceptable Saturday matinee viewing. In this science fiction, comedy, space Western, Cate Blanchett is Lillith, a nononsense bounty hunter with an enigmatic past. She is hired by Atlas (Edgar Ramirez), the most powerful corporate CEO in the universe, to find his missing daughter, Tiny Tina (Ariana Greenblatt). For this mission, Lillith must return to her home planet of Pandora, which is filled with bad memories for her. Another complication in the mission is that Tiny Tina has been kidnapped by mercenary

By David Vicari & Fritz Esker

should be 15-20 minutes shorter. It reaches what would have been a strong endpoint and then keeps going. Unfortunately, those final 15 minutes feature a significant plot hole and multiple bits relying on several characters all not noticing stuff people would almost certainly notice in those situations. A bit during the final scene is also eye-roll inducing.

So Trap ends up being one of those movies that points out the limitations in the star rating system. There is a lot to like about the movie, but those final 15 minutes are unfortunate. It sits right at the two-and-a-half and three-star border. Shyamalan, whatever his flaws, is still trying to make original thrillers in an era of reboots and sequels and is still trying to carry on the legacy of Alfred Hitchcock. The effort is sincerely appreciated, but it is also understandable if others find the implausibility a bit too much. —Fritz Esker

DEADLINE: SEP 13 | STREET DATE: SEP 21

soldier Roland (Kevin Hart), who is protecting the girl from her despicable father. Soon, Lillith and Roland form an alliance and seek out Lillith’s foster mother, Dr. Tannis (Jamie Lee Curtis), for help.

Director Roth, known for his horror movies including Cabin Fever, Hostel, and Thanksgiving, is a big cinephile and loves a lot of horror and science fiction films of the ‘70s and ‘80s, so it seems that Borderlands is a spirited goof on crap ‘80s science fiction, specifically The Ice Pirates (1984), Metalstorm: The Destruction of Jared-Syn (1983), and Spacehunter: Adventures in the Forbidden Zone (1983). Borderlands has overly familiar trappings, and, like many action movies of late, it has too many grand scenes of destruction. However, it’s fun to see Blanchett playing a badass action hero, a character you don’t normally see her play, and Jack Black is funny as the voice of sarcastic robot Claptrap. It won’t change your life, but Borderlands is better than its reputation suggests.

—David Vicari

Bar Guide

Backspace Bar & Kitchen 139 Chartres St. 504-522-2216

Boot Scootin’ Rodeo 522 Bourbon St. 504-552-2510

Bourbon “O” Bar 730 Bourbon St. 504-523-2222

Buffa’s 1001 Esplanade Ave. 504-949-0038

Boot Scootin’ Rodeo brings honky-tonk fun to the French Quarter. Square dance on one of the largest oak dancefloors on Bourbon Street and order a 27 oz. mug of spiked sweet tea.

The Bourbon “O” Bar is the perfect French Quarter spot, right on Bourbon Street, offering great live music options every night as well as an excellent menu of fresh cocktails.

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 – 2 a.m. every day, with local music Wednesday through Monday.

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 St. 504-218-5649

House of Blues

225 Decatur St. 504-310-4999

Jazz Playhouse

300 Bourbon St. 504-553-2299

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

Rick’s Cabaret 315 Bourbon St. 504-524-4222

Rooftop at The Barnett 600 Carondelet St. 504-900-1180

Rosie’s on the Roof

1000 Magazine St. 504-528-1941

Saddle Bar 715 Bienville St. 504-313-1113

Sazerac House 101 Magazine St. 504-910-0100

The Garage 810 Conti St.

The Jimani 141 Chartres St. 504-524-0493

Club 38 provides VIP treatment upon entry as part of their “Owners Club” to guests and elite members. Gamblers can relax with complimentary food and wine with the bar while in Boomtown Casino.

The Metropolitan 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd. 504-568-1702

The Vintage 3121 Magazine St. 504-324-7144

Tropical Isle Multiple Locations 504-523-1927

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 specializes in Cajun cuisine including fried alligator. They have craft beers by local breweries and fantastic cocktails, and their outdoor courtyard is the perfect place to sit back and relax.

The Fillmore is a 22,000 square foot space above Harrah’s Casino. The area hosts artists from all over the world, full-service productions, customizable menus, and creative cocktail packages.

High Grace NOLA is an upscale dive bar located in the heart of the French Quarter. The bar is open 24/7 and stocked with beers, wines, and seltzers. You can even enjoy beer/cocktail towers.

The House of Blues is a great hangout spot that hosts a variety of live music. The bar is rock and blues-themed and serves up delicious Southern dishes such as jambalaya and po-boys.

Located in the Royal Sonesta New Orleans hotel, The Jazz Playhouse offers an authentic NOLA jazz club experience. Enjoy small Creole bites, beer, wine, and lots of creative and delicious cocktails.

Lots a Luck is a laid-back neighborhood dive bar with bar games galore. They also often have special offers and events such as crawfish boils and trivia nights.

Fiendly service, fun vibes, and, of course, great drinks—there’s always something going on from trivia night to holiday celebrations. Enjoy a Bloody Mary, Irish coffee, and more out on their patio.

Pal’s Lounge is a Mid-City dive bar that has been taken care of by the neighborhood since 2002. Pal’s is perfect for late nights as they stay open until 3 a.m. serving drinks and bites from food trucks.

Rick’s Cabaret is a three-story strip club adorned with entertainers, cocktails, and a burlesque-inspired VIP room, perfect for a celebratory evening or a private dance.

The CBD's newest rooftop perch is a chic pool bar. Elevate your New Orleans experience with a dip or indulge in small plates and seasonal handcrafted cocktails while taking in the panorama of city views.

Located atop the Higgins Hotel, Rosie’s on the Roof offers a full service bar, small bites, and an unmatched view of the city. Elegance meets comfort in this WWII Americana-themed rooftop lounge.

Saddle Bar is a country bar that has two stories, premium whiskies, a dance floor, and much more. Instead of a mechanical bull, guests can take a ride on Randy, the biggest "cock" in NOLA.

The Sazerac House is the quintessential place to experience one of New Orleans’ most famous cocktails—the Sazerac. This museum offers tours that educate guests about the cocktail’s history.

Located just steps off Bourbon Street, the Garage has live music, food, a funky atmosphere, and a dance floor. Play a game of shuffleboard or pool or show off your best dance moves.

The Jimani is a great late-night spot for food, drinks, and hanging out during a big sports event. In addition to many different beers, the kitchen is open till 4 a.m.

The Metro is the spot for premier nightlife in New Orleans. This two-story nightclub offers great DJ performances, multiple bars, and convenient VIP service. Escape the stress of reality and dance the night away.

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 of sips with a Bitter Good Morning, a boozy cold brew, or Espresso Yourself.

Tropical Isle is a bar chain beloved by locals and tourists alike. They have a fun atmosphere and great music, but their drinks are incredible too. Try a famous Hand Grenade or a Shark Attack.

BULL DOG MID CITY

5135 CANAL BLVD.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 4 | 6–8 PM

BRASS MONKEY

230 COUSIN ST., SLIDELL

SATURDAY, SEPT. 21 | 2–5 PM

BAYOU BEER GARDEN 326 N JEFF DAVIS PKWY, THURSDAY, SEPT. 5 | 6–8PM

MARKEY’S 640 LOUISA ST.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 21 | 6–8PM

PHOENIX

941 ELYSIAN FIELDS AVE. FRIDAY, SEPT. 13 | 4–6PM

COLUMBIA STREET TAPROOM 434 N COLUMBIA ST. # 2H, COVINGTON

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 25 | 6–8PM

STEIN HOISTING CONTESTS

THE BULL DOG

3236 MAGAZINE ST, WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 18 | 6–8PM

OLD ARABI BAR 6701 N PETERS ST., ARABI FRIDAY, SEPT. 27 | 6–8PM

WRONG IRON

3532 TOULOUSE ST.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 19 | 5–7 PM

ERNST CAFÉ

600 S PETERS ST

SATURDAY, SEPT. 28 | 6–8PM

PARTICIPANT PRIZES VARY BY ACCOUNT WITH ONE LUCKY WINNER TAKING HOME A SAM ADAMS COMMEMORATIVE CERAMIC STEIN!

New Orleans Sports Radio

By Debbie Lindsey

Summer vs. School TALES FROM THE QUARTER

School was not my cup of tea. I never cease to be amazed and surprised when I meet kids that are excited about school. Make no mistake, I am delighted and impressed by their eagerness to learn and to be reunited with school friends; however, I felt fear and trepidation as September approached. Back then, the school year began later. I don’t think we began classes until after Labor Day. Therefore, “summer” was summer—three months of reading library books (for pleasure) and no other academics. Math skills were limited to the budgeting of my tiny weekly allowance. Geography was taught by way of a road trip/ vacation. Biology lessons were the art of catching tadpoles and snakes. Engineering knowledge was gained from building forts and tree houses. I loved summer.

I was never keen on Physical Ed classes— not in grammar school nor high school—yet I excelled in swimming, bicycling, and tree climbing. And when I was younger, I loved the brute sport of beating up boys (they never suffered anything other than a blow to their young sense of masculinity). Sports in school were beyond my willingness to conform to rules and procedures, and I was butt backwards with directions—I was off to the left with the instruction of “move to the right.” I could ride a bike and turn corners without my hands touching the handle-bars, but I was a klutz on the basketball court. To this day, I can’t follow the easy steps of line dancing—I can “short-out” The Electric Slide.

During the summertime, I shined as a tomboy, while also dedicating my school term weekends to running amuck in our surrounding woods. But during summer vacation, most of my energies were spent swimming at the Gales’. They had a backyard pool and three kids of varying ages that befriended me. We, and other neighbor kids, all but grew fins from swimming and playing in that pool. Every year at the end of August, Mom took me to the doctor for eye ointment to help heal the months of swimming underwater, eyes wide open after absorbing chlorine. Why goggles were never discussed, I’ll never know. Furthermore, after summer swim season, I was a perfect candidate for a witness protection program— my finger and toe prints were all but seared/ rubbed off from climbing the sides of the pool all day. Again, why weren’t steps or ladder usage ever discussed?

In grade school, I would practice my underwater skills while in the classroom. That big wall clock with its second hand was great for timing and perfecting my breath-holding ability. My teachers didn’t seem to mind my oxygen deprivation, as it kept me quiet. I took this training for underwater feats quite seriously. Johnny Weissmuller, aka Tarzan of the motion pictures, was my hero. As an Olympic swimming medalist, he was more than qualified for those epic underwater scenes rescuing Jane and wrestling alligators. Plus, he also had the magic of special effects to allow for his seemingly long adventures underneath

the African waters of Hollywood (filmed in both Southern California and Florida). My point here is that my dedication to summer swimming took priority over arithmetic.

Shopping for school supplies and uniforms was an annual ritual. I was cool with picking out pens, pencils, and a lunchbox, but trying on those dreadful Catholic school uniforms was a supreme bore. Those god-awful, butt-ugly brown regulation shoes were seriously stiff leather, therefore blisters were to be expected for a couple of weeks. Frankly, didn’t Mom realize this shopping was squandering my precious and dwindling days of summer? The no. 2 pencils and (beginning around 6th grade) fountain pens with those cool little blue/black ink cartridges were worth the excursion to the store, but I loathed everything about uniforms. Nine years (K-8th grade) of these fashion faux pas had me chomping at the bit to enter the public school system. As I neared high school age, I was also ready to bid adieu to the nuns.

I guess I got the last wave of the truly conservative religious orders that seemed dedicated to making school a real drag. Certainly, there have always been teaching nuns that had a gift for sharing knowledge and advancing academia. I just never had one for a teacher.

Later, as an adult, I made friends with the “newer” (younger) nuns that put their faith into social justice endeavors and taught with more passion for knowledge. In fairness, I guess if even the more “modern” nuns had been my teachers back then, I still might not have appreciated them. I was a terrible student. My mom always said I lacked stick-toitiveness. I always assumed my concentration in class was just me being a bit flawed and something that being more disciplined would solve. I knew I was smart but figured self discipline and determination were just not my strong suits and moved on to muddling through school. Back in the day, ADHD and dyslexia were not recognized as they are today, but, perhaps, I was merely a crappy student. But, hey, high school was fertile ground for so much more than academics. I was free of uniforms, and crafting a wardrobe for campus was a priority. Thanks to my babysitting income, I had impeccable garments and color coordinated shoes.

All this was fun until the ‘70s when my beliefs leaned into being a hippie, not a sorority wannabe. Bell bottom jeans and Chuck Taylors were my uniform (I saw the irony). Of course, once again, my studies played second fiddle (exception being Art and English classes). My summertime pursuits as a kid were now replaced with rebelliousness (some productive, some stupid), smoking, and getting knocked up. I was a real overachiever with trouble but, like my studies, I muddled through reasonably unscathed—a safe abortion in NYC, no drug addictions, no arrests.

Remarkably, I survived my summers and school years. Would I like a “do-over” with school? Nah. But I would happily relive all my summers.

PO-BOY VIEWS

By Phil LaMancusa

Let It Roll or Hey Nineteen

LS U, Tulane, Loyola, Dillard, Delgado, etc., etc. Blah, blah, blah.

“Blow up your TV / Throw away your paper / Go to the country / Build yourself a home / Plant a little garden / Eat a lot of peaches / Try an’ find Jesus on your own.”

—JohnPrine,“SpanishPipedream”

You’re heading off/ back to school, and nobody can talk you out of it, eh? In it for a good time, or do you really wanna graduate (party or purpose)? Which school? Statistics vary school to school from 11% acceptance and 86% graduation to 87% accept and 17% grad. Choose wisely, Grasshopper. It’s goin’ on your resume.

It’s every parent’s dream to have their kid graduate from college, get a degree (or many), and become a doctor, CPA, lawyer, or rise in the ranks of the military. You owe them—right? To heck with being a plumber, electrician, chef, or rock ‘n’ roll star. It’s their money and your debt.

With luck, they gave you a year off after high school to travel and “find yourself.” Rich kids will head to Europe, while the poor kids will go to the Gulf Shores.

One thing’s for certain: Student debt, no matter what the president says, can hound your heels for the rest of your life. So you’d better pick a major that will bring income. I’ve met many a Political Science major who are now tending bar or slinging hash.

One thing that schools cannot teach you is becoming a person of worth and value—a person who acts with kindness and sincerity, and someone with concern about others and their environment. This can only be done with personal practice. Face it, in those hallowed halls, there’s no academia labeled “Harmlessness.”

In motion pictures, there are teachers and students that challenge each other’s humanity, humility, and self worth. At the end of the films, there are epiphanies where all is made clear and the world becomes a better place. That happens in motion pictures, television programs, and the final segment of any news program. In “real life,” that’s more of an exception than the rule, and it’s all your fault.

In real life, teachers are generally underpaid, overworked, and underappreciated. Like some “professionals,” they may just want to get through the day putting up with “students” that don’t care about any subject that they might be “teaching” and only want to get the answers to any tests that might be given, answer any questions that the teacher might pose, and get the hell out of the class and back to a life that they believe is the real thing. Sometimes, the teacher might get even with that gang of ingrates and impose homework and reading assignments that belie comprehension and time management. Do you really want to go to school and learn the tools of a profession that you will be forced to practice for the rest of your life? It certainly is what your parents want.

“Find a girl, settle down / If you want you can marry / Look at me / I am old, but I’m happy.”

—CatStevens,“FatherandSon” As you age, you progress through stages.

At 17, you’re ready for a radical departure from your, up to this point, life. At 21, you’re more confused than ever and are going through hard times finding yourself. At 25, you’re golden, indestructible, and at ease. By 28, you’ve had your ass kicked by life real bad and are finally starting to get a clue (astrologically, it is where your moon comes back to the exact spot as the moment of your birth). At 30, you’re catching on and there’s a glimmer of a reflection of the person that you want to become physically, mentally, emotionally, and professionally. It goes on ad nauseam (40s, 50s, 60s). At each of these junctures, there is a birth or rebirth of you the person. Society is not willing to accept this.

“I was once like you are now / And I know that it’s not easy / To be calm when you’ve found something going on / But take your time, think a lot / Think of everything you’ve got now / You will still be here tomorrow / But your dreams may not.”

—CatStevens,“FatherandSon”

Society as a whole is controlled by people that knew what they wanted to be from an early age, and, on becoming that person, never changed until they reached their zenith and are unwilling to accept new (for them) ideas and concepts of themselves. The people who ultimately control your life never wanted to run away with the circus.

“Your mama don’t dance and your daddy don’t rock ‘n’ roll.”

—LogginsandMessina,“YourMamaDon’tDance”

School can educate you on many subjects. School cannot teach you to think. If you think that going to school is the right thing for you to do to become a doctor and heal the unwilling, to play football until your brain implodes, to learn to take other people’s money until you have a bunch of your own—for the rest of your life—then have at it, by all means.

Or perhaps you just want to enjoy a few more years of freedom until you join your daddy’s firm, practice, or dealership. I say go for it.

However (and here’s the big however), maybe you like working on cars, perfecting soufflés, busking on Royal Street, painting sunsets, writing poetry, selling balloons, or performing with squirrels at a sideshow? Why the f**k not? It’s your life.

Find something that you really like doing that gives you enough money and time off to enjoy what’s left of your life. Listen, there are 393,800 millionaires in this country who are under 30 years of age (millenialmoney. com) and 14 are billionaires (kiplinger.com). Conversely, 3.4% of Americans will not reach age 40 (Quora) out of our population of 341,772,225 (Worldometer).

“The future’s uncertain and the end is always near.” —JimMorrison,"RoadhouseBlues"

WHERE Y'BEEN

WHITE LINEN NIGHT

Photography By Gustavo Escanelle