Mardi Gras 2017 (February 2017)

February 2017

WhereYat.com

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CONTENTS Features

COUNCIL OUNCIL OMAN OUNCILW

JENNIFER VAN V VRANCKEN

8 NOLA Burlesque 10 Mardi Gras Parade Routes/Maps 22 MG From a Rider's Perspective 24 26 28 32 33 34 36 56 58

Doubloon Collections Your 2017 Mardi Gras Toolkit

Mardi Gras Locals in NOLA Throw a Better MG Party Spotlight on Westbank Parades

Mardi Gras Around the World How to Say NO to MG Crashers

Circus Culture of New Orleans The Pain & Glory of Running A Marathon

Events & Nightlife 38 42 46 62

Metairie Carnival 2017 Experience the excitement & sounds as middle & high school bands ‘bat tle’ for the top prize and bragging rights!

Dance to the rhythm on the route rooting for your favorite band.

Reviewing area is Veterans Memorial Boulevard near Houma Boulevard (across from Chili’s Restaurant).

F o r m o r e i n f o r m at i o n co n tac t t h e Jefferson Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc: 5 0 4-73 1-70 8 3

or

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1- 87 7- 5 72 -7474

Music Calendar Sting Comes to the Big Easy Lakeside 2 Riverside Bar Guide

Dining 48 Food News 50 $20 and Under 3052 Restaurant Guide

Extras 64 Best Films of 2016 66 Columns 68 Around the Web 70 Where Ya' Been?

74 Where Y'at Chat

February 2017 Vol. 20 No. 6 Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Josh Danzig Creative Director: Michael Fulkerson Assistant Editor: Kathy Bradshaw Movie Editor: David Vicari Copy Editor: Burke Bischoff Contributing Writers: Beau Ciolino, Fritz Esker, Emily Hingle, Kathy Bradshaw, Phil LaMancusa, Debbie Lindsey, Kim Ranjbar, Krystral Christen, Leigh Wright, Emil Flemmon, Greg Roques, Kimmie Tubre, Burke Bischoff Director of Sales: Stephen Romero Cover Photo by Romney Caruso Photography; Costume designed by Jenny Campbell of NOLA Costumes Photographers & Designers: Gus Escanelle, Jason Hall, Steve Hatley, Romney Caruso, Jorge Menes, Kathy Bradshaw, Greg Roques, Margot Landen, Jeff Schock Interns: Anthony O'Donnell, Finn Turnbull,Amélie Hubert-Rouleau, Samantha Yrle, Marissa Williams, Catherine Lockwood, Christina Killelea, Rebecca Pritchett, Blair Fleming Subscribe: Receive 1 year (14 issues) for $30 and get a FREE Where Y’at CD. Subscribe today at WhereYat.com.

Logo © 2017 All rights reserved Bruce Betzer, Legal Counsel: (504) 304-9952 Where Y’at Magazine 5500 Prytania St., #133 New Orleans, LA 70115 (504) 891-0144 info@whereyat.com | WhereYat.com

Carnival season is here, and this issue has everything to lead you through the fun. In addition to Mardi Gras, February in New Orleans is full of exciting things like Valentine’s Day and the NBA All-Star Game ... truly an exhilarating time of year!

Trixie Minx of Fleur de Tease graces our cover in her beautiful doubloon outfit made by Jenny Campbell. Don’t miss Anthony O’Donnell’s interview with her about the NOLA burlesque scene.

Speaking of doubloons, Emily Hingle’s fascinating look at these Mardi Gras collectibles is a must-read for all parade-goers. Who could have imagined that the aluminum coin you caught at last year’s parades could be worth vast sums of money?

If you are a Mardi Gras newbie who wants to do it like a veteran, then Cassandra Damascus’s article is for you. She teaches you everything about what to pack and how to ensure Carnival contentment. But however you do it, make sure to keep it safe! -Josh Danzig, Publisher

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The Art of Tease: NOLA Burlesque

By Anthony O'Donnell

W

hile a casual observer might not recognize the difference, to enthusiasts, burlesque and “normal” stripping couldn’t be further apart. Burlesque is an art form all its own, with performers competing to craft the most entertaining ways of getting (almost) naked onstage. But how did New Orleans, a famous den of debauchery, come to be a haven for the comedic, raunchy and unique art form called burlesque?

In the early 19th century, bawdy variety shows, with irreverent comedy and musical performances, became popular throughout the United States.

The term for these shows was burlesque.

Many of them featured striptease as the main attraction, and, due in no small part to the irrepressible horniness of the American people, soon “burlesque” became synonymous with a particularly theatrical combo of striptease and dance. At the end of the century, New Orleans became home to one of the world’s most famous red light districts, Storyville. It was there that many visitors to the city experienced two art forms that would soon spread across the nation like wildfire: jazz music and burlesque.

Today, burlesque continues to flourish and grow in New Orleans. The Big Easy has developed what many believe to be the nation’s most vibrant and active burlesque scene.

The city’s most prominent promoter of burlesque is Trixie Minx, a performer and producer.

I spoke with her about how she fell in love with burlesque and why it’s so perfectly suited to the culture of our fair city.

“I kind of became a burlesque dancer by accident. I like to think that burlesque chose me.

I started as a professional ballet dancer,” Minx said. “While many people may dismiss it as just stripping, to me, it’s an art like

Photo by Romney Caruso

anything else. Jazz is art. Food is art. And burlesque is the art of tease.”

Minx is emphatic about the way in which the culture of the Big Easy created the perfect environment for burlesque. “In New Orleans, there’s so much music that it allows the dancers to really pair up with musicians,” Minx added. “There aren’t many places aside from New Orleans where dancers get to really collaborate with live bands.”

“There’s an entire spectrum of stuff, from traditional burlesque, to more gender-bending or politically-themed shows,” she explained.

Challenging typical gender roles, boylesque & draglesque are styles of dance where men perform a theatrical striptease.

Draglesque, in particular,

8 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

has become so popular that recent RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Violet Chachki is now touring with burlesque icon Dita Von Teese.

Locally, Trixie suggests seeing draglesque performer Ariana Amour. She also shouts out Madame Mystere, a female dancer who stole the show at a recent performance by dressing as Barb from the Netflix series Stranger Things (proving that burlesque need not be old-fashioned to be entertaining.)

Minx has seen her fair share of burlesque outside the city limits. In fact, it was a trip to Paris that helped her decide to seriously pursue the art of tease, after several friends encouraged her to try it out. “That’s where I fell in love with burlesque,” Minx recalled.

“In Paris, I saw an actual, theater-style show.

Beautiful costuming, incredible lighting. Not just a dancer alone on a stage. It made me realize that burlesque could be like a ballet.”

Minx brought that spirit with her back to New Orleans. “My monthly show at One Eyed Jacks has been running for 11 years, and even on a shoestring budget, this group of 12 dancers come together to create these unique themed shows every month.”

In 2016, she created two performances at the Orpheum that replicated the full, vaudevillian experience of burlesque. “I always love to incorporate comedy in my act,” Minx said. “So I wanted to create something that wasn’t just sexy ladies but really a full-on, theatrical performance.”

Minx recommends that people interested in performing start off by seeing as many shows as possible. “There’s a lot of facets, a lot of nuanced movements and themes. When you see the right one, you’ll know.” Inspired by funny females like Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe, she began producing shows in New Orleans because she wanted to incorporate comedic aspects of the performance, rather than just the sensuality: “I wanted to highlight the inherent ridiculousness of taking off your clothes in front of an audience.” She eventually quit her day job to focus on producing shows. “It was the worst business plan ever, but I love every minute of it.”

You can see Trixie perform in New Orleans in any of her ongoing productions, including Burgundy Burlesque (Fridays from 9 p.m.-12 a.m. at the Saint Hotel), Burlesque Ballroom (Fridays from 11 p.m.-1 a.m. at the Royal Sonesta), Bourbon Boylesque (Tuesday from 8 p.m.-10 p.m. at Oz,) and her cornerstone production, Fleur de Tease at One Eyed Jacks, which features shows monthly at 8 p.m. and 10.30 p.m.

For additional information on Trixie or any of these shows, please visit trixieminx.com or fleurdetease.com.

Jenny Campbell is Designing Pure Costume Magic The stunning outfit Trixie Minx wears on our cover was crafted by Jenny Campbell, an artist who’s earned a reputation as an innovative and capable designer of costumes for performers of all kinds.

Campbell moved to New Orleans after catching the costuming bug in Maryland. “In Baltimore, I worked in art museums,” she says. She started making outfits on the side for the Coney Island Mermaid Parade. “After that, I kind of moved down here and re-invented myself.” The aesthetic she learned at parades in Baltimore transferred to her work here; she’s designed costumes for several krewes.

“Most of this was actually created at my parents' house, because I was home for the holidays,” she says, talking about Minx’s outfit. Working off the concept of doubloons, she decided she wanted to build a bikini incorporating the ubiquitous Mardi Gras coins. “I handdrilled all the doubloons and wired them onto the frame. Luckily, I already had an abundance of purple, green and gold stuff in my studio.”

This all seems to be well within Campbell’s wheelhouse; she’s worked with burlesque dancers before. “The challenge of the layers and the ease of putting on or taking them off is really interesting. The last one I worked on had five layers.” She also emphasizes the innovation she’s seen in the burlesque scene: “The outfits keep getting better, incorporating projectors and other technology. It’s crazy.”

The biggest challenge with this costume, though, was getting it home to the Big Easy: “I carried it on the plane, and it wouldn’t fit under the seat! All those individual pieces put together ended up taking up a lot of space.”

Campbell is available for all types of costume creations. You can see her work at instagram.com/nolacostumes and can contact her at nolacostumes@ gmail.com.

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Parade routes are subject to change.

Fun Facts

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• Motto: “Her beauty is timeless, her age is now ... forever!”

• The krewe consists of 500 female riders.

• This year ’s theme: “Strolling down the Avenue.”

Fun Facts • All visitors are welcome to ride.

• Krewe members participate in year-round events such as Zephyrs and Pelicans games.

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• Named for the Yoruba goddess of love and intimacy.

• The parade features the marching Baby Dolls.

• Oshun is involved in year-round community service.

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Fun Facts • Their roots lie in Southern government.

• Choctaw's first parade was in 1939.

• Throws include spears and wooden nickels.

Parade routes are subject to change.

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Fun Facts • Named for the Greek king of Cyprus who fell in love with a statue of the sea nymph, Galatea.

• This year's parade title is "Journey to the Jade Empire."

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Fun Facts

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This year's theme is "A Knight at the Tony's."

• The krewe is made up of over 350 male riders.

• The parade includes floats pulled by mules and a secret mystery throw.

Fun Facts • All female krewe.

• Signature throw is a lady's compact.

• Composed primarily of African American women.

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Fun Facts • Celebrates any and all types of dogs.

• Dogs and owners alike parade in festive costumes.

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• Known for vibrant floats, various marching bands and generous throws.

They were originally an all-male krewe.

However, women have been riding as guests since 2013.

• Originally sponsored by the West Side Carnival and Social Club.

•

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Fun Facts • The krewe does not feature a queen or a court, or host a Mardi Gras ball.

• The U.S. Marine Corps Band will lead the parade this year.

• Members claim to be direct descendants of the club that was established in 1921.

Fun Facts • Nyx is an all-female krewe celebrating the diversity of women.

• Named for the Greek goddess of the night who was so powerful that not even Zeus dared to cross her.

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Soul Rebels Brass Band Every Thurs. Night Great Place to See the Magazine St. Parades Live Piano & Free Oysters Every Friday FEBRUARY 2 FEBRUARY 3 FEBRUARY 5 FEBRUARY 9 FEBRUARY 10 FEBRUARY 11 FEBRUARY 12 FEBRUARY 16 FEBRUARY 17 FEBRUARY 18 FEBRUARY 19 FEBRUARY 23 FEBRUARY 24

FEBRUARY 25

SOUL REBELS 11PM JOE KROWN LIVE 7PM RUSSELL BATISTE 11PM CRAZY WHISKY 11PM SOUL REBELS 11 PM JOE KROWN LIVE PIANO 7PM MB3 BAND 11PM CHRISTIAN BOONE AND LYNNE DRURY 11 PM CRAZY WHISKY 10PM SOUL REBELS 11PM JOE KROWN LIVE PIANO 7PM GYPSY ELISE and the ROYAL BLUES 11PM MAJOR BACON 11 PM WILD TCHOUPTOULOUS INDIANS 10PM SOUL REBELS 11PM JOE KROWN LIVE PIANO 7PM DAVE JORDAN AND THE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION 11PM MAINLINE BRASS BAND 11PM

THOTH TIME PARTY TIME! Feb. 26 Mardi Gras Indians Thoth Sunday Show 11AM + Performances From The N.O. Cherry Bombs Dance Revue 1PM & the Soul Rebels Bachuus Bash 10PM FEBRUARY 27 WILD TCHOUPTOULOUS INDIANS 10PM

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Parade routes are subject to change.

Fun Facts

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• Established by a group of New Orleans businessmen in the 1930s following the Great Depression.

• One of the first Carnival clubs to re-establish themselves after Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

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Resurrected the original satirical themes of Mardi Gras parades.

• Latin motto translates to “Live to ride, ride to live.”

They were the first krewe to introduce blinking beads as a throw.

Fun Facts

Fun Facts

• Named after the legendary daughters of Zeus.

• Members host an annual design contest for local students.

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• Named for the god of dreams.

• This year’s parade title is "Morpheus Takes a Gamble.”

• The club actively supports local charities and membership is open to both men and women.

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We fly non-stop from New Orleans.

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*Advertised prices available for bookings made electronically through your travel agent or on vacationexpress.com; small service fee of $10 applies when booking through Vacation Express Call Center. Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. For full terms and conditions, hotel and description of all services, please refer to the Vacation Express 2017 brochure or visit vacationexpress.com. Some upgrades are subject to availability upon check-in. Packages at the above prices are limited and are subject to change without prior notice. Vacation Express public charter flights operated by Swift Air, LLC. Airfares are per person, reflect lowest available airfare at time of printing, are subject to change and based upon availability of class of service. Baggage charges and allowances vary by carrier, most major carriers are charging a fee for checked baggage. Mandatory $10 Tourist Card must be purchased upon arrival to Punta Cana and is not included in above package prices. Not responsible for errors or omissions.

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Parade routes are subject to change.

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• Known for their elaborately costumed captain and king.

• The queen is selected by lottery.

• Was originally formed to be a neighborhood parade on St. Claude Avenue.

Fun Facts

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• Named for the area of New Orleans in which the parade rolls.

Introduced animated floats to Mardi Gras in 1947.

• Signature throws include interlocking hearts.

Fun Facts

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16 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

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Not just affordable flights, but affordable packages. vacationexpress.com | 800.309.4717

*Advertised prices available for bookings made electronically through your travel agent or on vacationexpress.com; small service fee of $10 applies when booking through Vacation Express Call Center. Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. For full terms and conditions, hotel and description of all services, please refer to the Vacation Express 2017 brochure or visit vacationexpress.com. Some upgrades are subject to availability upon check-in. Packages at the above prices are limited and are subject to change without prior notice. Vacation Express public charter flights operated by Sunwing Airlines. Airfares are per person, reflect lowest available airfare at time of printing, are subject to change and based upon availability of class of service. Baggage charges and allowances vary by carrier, most major carriers are charging a fee for checked baggage. Not responsible for errors or omissions.

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 17

Parade routes are subject to change.

Fun Facts

ation is known The Bacchus organiz est floats for building the larg ever assembled. al Mardi Gras ition trad Transformed the tyle “super dance” ball to a Las Vegas-s nment. rtai with outstanding ente

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Fun Facts

• Based on the Greek son of Poseidon who had the power to tell the future and shape shift.

• Once known as “most miserly” of the krewes in terms of throws.

• The king is never revealed to the public and his float is a giant oyster shell.

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Fun Facts • • •

Founding members include Harry Connick Sr. and Jr. The first parade in 1994 had 700 riders.

The parade includes a celebrity monarch each year.

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Fat Tuesday: Febraury, 28. 2017

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Fun Facts •

The actual name for the Krewe of Rex is the School of Design.

• The official song of Rex is “If Ever I Cease to Love.”

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Saturday, February 11 Bilge (Slidell): Noon Posidon (Slidell): 1:00 p.m.

Mona Lisa & MoonPie (Slidell): 7:00 p.m.

Sunday, February 12 Slidellians (Slidell): 1:00 p.m.

Perseus (Slidell): 1:30 p.m.

Pearl River Lions Club (Pearl River): 1:00 p.m.

Friday, February 17 Eve (Mandeville): 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, February 18 Paws of Olde Towne (Slidell): 10:00 a.m.

Push Mow (Abita Springs): 11:00 a.m.

Tchefuncte (Madisonville): 1:00 p.m.

Olympia (Covington): 6:00 p.m.

Titans (Slidell): 6:30 p.m.

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20 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

Sunday, February 19 Claude (Slidell): 1:00 p.m.

Dionysus (Slidell): Follows Friday, February 24 Selene (Slidell): 6:30 p.m.

Original Krewe of Orpheus (Mandeville): 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, February 25 Bush (Bush): 8:30 a.m.

Tuesday, February 28 Covington Lions Club (Covington): 10:00 a.m.

Covington: Follows Chahta (Lacombe): 1:00 p.m.

Folsom: 2:00 p.m.

Sunday, March 5 Mardi Paws (Mandeville): 2:00 p.m.

Metairie & Westbank

Sunday, February 12 Little Rascals: Noon Friday, February 17 Excalibur: 7:00 p.m.

Athena: 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 18 Caesar: 6:00 p.m.

Friday, February 24 Centurions: 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, February 25 Isis: 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, February 26 Corps de Napoleon: 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, February 28 Argus: 10:00 a.m.

Elks Jefferson: Follows Jefferson: Follows

Saturday, February 18 The Mystic Knights of Adonis: 11:45 a.m.

Saturday, February 25 NOMTOC: 10:45 a.m.

(Route slightly deviates from Adonis above)

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Experiencing Mardi Gras From A Float Rider's Perspective

By Krystral Christen

M

ardi Gras and New Orleans are synonymous. Known as probably the biggest free show in the country, Mardi Gras has withstood the test of time and is still a vital part of the fabric that makes New Orleans unique. Visitors and locals alike are exhilarated by these moving masterpieces known as floats, as masked riders shower them with plastic treasures, lighted marvels and shiny doubloons. People come from all over the world to take in the sights and sounds of a tradition like no other.

There are few delights that people can compare to their first Mardi Gras experience.

But, one experience that might surpass it is almost a rite of passage for locals. The experience of being one of those masked riders is almost second to none. It is a high that is not easily accomplished. My first experience as a rider happened when I was about 10 years old. I will never forget the thrill of seeing a sea of people standing there, waiting for the parade to pass them as the float turned on the street. I looked down and saw hands and excited faces and heard the screams of “Throw me something!” in unison.

If I had to pick one word to describe it, magical would be that word.

Riding as an adult is no less exciting. It is still a thrilling feeling to see all those faces staring back at you and waiting for the gifts that you bear. I cannot describe the utter excitement I feel when I am loading a float the night before, anticipating an evening that is sure to be one of my most favorite of the year.

While riding on a float is as much fun as—or maybe more than—standing on the neutral ground, a lot of preparation and funds go in to preparing for your two- to three-hour ride along the parade route. As a rider, you probably already know even as you are departing your float that you plan to return the following year, and so you begin laying the groundwork for how you will be better, your beads will be more organized, and you will

22 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

become more of an all-around Mardi Gras star. After all, you must not let down those people standing on the street.

While the rest of the world is planning Christmas, riders are busy planning the most wonderful time of the year. They know as New Year’s rolls around that Carnival time is right around the corner. Dues will be due, throws need to be purchased, krewe balls planned, and the parade night needs to be in order.

Float spots, costumes, snacks and beverages need to be assigned. For people who ride in truck parades, building their actual float is underway. And all things Mardi Gras are in the air.

The parade itself is a work in progress from the minute the parade ends the previous year. There will be meetings and gatherings and more meetings and planning to make sure that the fabulous spectacle that is Mardi Gras can be brought to you every year. Floats are judged as they pass by judging stands to make sure that the float captain is doing his or her job and that the float as a whole is contributing to the parade. There are strict guidelines to be followed and you can be fined or escorted off the float for abusing said guidelines. Uniform codes are just as strict and masks must be worn at all times while the parade is rolling. Every single person you see riding in those parades has spent countless hours planning, purchasing and preparing to make sure you, as a parade-goer, go home having had the time of your life.

It takes a village, as they say, and that sentiment applies. It takes a small village or a large city to bring this enjoyment to you.

I am exhilarated when I am a part of that community. My arms may be sore from hours of throwing trinkets and my legs tired from standing and trying to hold my balance while I dig for treasure to throw off the float. But I always end the night with a smile, having had the best time with some of the best people while riding through the street, feeling like a rock star.

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 23

Upcoming doubloon swaps will take place March 3 from 6:00–10:00 p.m. at the Lions Club of Metairie (1627 Metairie Rd.) and March 5 from 12:30–4:30 p.m. at the St. Angela Merici Gym (901 Beverly Gardens Dr.)

The Wild World of Doubloon Collecting

By Emily Hingle

I

t’s not just about beads during Mardi Gras time. You’ll find plenty of people who prefer other such baubles over the ubiquitous strings of beads that just weigh your neck down. Muses has shoes, Zulu has coconuts, and Nyx has purses, but still there are even more prized possessions for a few discerning people out there. I’m talking about that little round metal coin that is either celebrated and coveted or taken for granted. Those who delve into the fascinating world of doubloon collecting will tell you that these coins are worth far more than you think.

Chris Caravella of doubloonswap. com explained his love for doubloons: “Doubloons, for me, evoke memories of childhood and growing up in New Orleans in a family that went to practically every parade we could. Doubloons are a rich part of our cultural heritage and one that I enjoy being part of.”

Doubloon collecting has been around since doubloons began getting tossed by masked Mardi Gras revelers nearly 60 years ago in 1960 by the Krewe of Rex. H. Alvin Sharpe told Rex’s royalty that they should

throw decorated coins, but the captain thought they’d be dangerous. So Alvin tossed a handful of coins at the captain from 10 feet away, and he said it shouldn’t be that bad. The captain asked Sharpe to design these coins, which he did for the next seven years, until Blaine Kern took it over.

They were a way to cement the krewes and their brands in people’s minds. They were so popular to throw during the 80s that the krewes felt they were being overproduced and have since scaled back production to about half of what it was.

Unlike other items that can be collected, doubloons have no regulating authority. So the value placed on them is solely up to the people collecting and trading them at shows and swaps, and it also depends on how many the krewe produced that year. “No krewes publically publish which doubloons they produce. It has

24 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

been the burden of collectors to organize and catalog what has been produced and to set value for those items,” explained Caravella. “Any serious collector will want to join a doubloon collecting club or at least purchase a checklist put out by one of those clubs or by commercial coin dealers.”

The doubloon-collecting circuit was limited to New Orleanians before the advent of the internet made the collections available to be seen by those who haven’t visited the city, and there are all sorts of collectors out there. “Some people collect only active krewes and others only old-line krewes (those parading since the 19th century),” Caravella said. “Some people just collect one doubloon from each krewe for each year.

Hardcore collectors gather everything they can get their hands on. There are endless possibilities.” But there are some basic classifications.

Common throw doubloons are what you normally catch at parades, and they can be made of aluminum or wood; these doubloons are mass-produced and available to everyone. Then there are special aluminum doubloons that may be thicker or have a deep design on them. These may only be given out to krewe members or royalty, and you have to have an in to get one or be willing to pay. Manufacturers used to make metal doubloons with two colors, but the krewes no longer get them. Heavies were made from metals like bronze, copper or even silver. Obviously, they’re more expensive than the aluminum doubloons, and they’re difficult to find even if you know the krewe well and are willing to pay big for it.

Once you’ve got that coveted doubloon, you’ve got to accurately identify it. The obverse (front) should always bear the krewe’s name and debut year. The reverse (back) will change yearly with the theme and may bear the king and court’s faces.

You’ve also got to know the material it’s made from, how the coloring was applied, if it has a high relief, the gauge, and what’s on the edges. Many common doubloons have a reeded edge with tight ridges. Some non-throw doubloons aren’t round and can have hexagonal or other such shapes. You should also compare your doubloon to others that are identical to check for any production defects or varieties that may

increase or decrease its value.

While there hasn’t been widespread counterfeiting of doubloons, in 1970, Rex reissued their 1960 doubloon—the original Mardi Gras doubloon. Some enterprising cheaters may attempt to sell the cheaper 1970 coin and claim it’s the 1960 coin, which can sell for hundreds. And if aluminum doubloons are boiled, their dye comes off.

These can be sold as other, more expensive doubloons.

So if you’re about to go into your grandma’s attic to rifle through all of those boxes of throws she refused to get rid of, sorting the doubloons may not be worthwhile. “Unsorted boxes of doubloons have little value mostly because they require too much work to sort through,” Cavanella explained. “The best you can hope to get is the base metal price of scrap aluminum, even if there could be some treasures buried in the box. Typically, that is about 50 cents to $1 per pound, or half a cent to 1 cent each. Ironically, it costs much more to produce doubloons and krewe members pay much more than that to have them as one of their throw options.”

If you’ve got your stuff sorted, cataloged and kept in binders, it may be worth more.

“If you really feel that you may have some treasures, invest in a doubloon price guide and go into a collection evaluation armed with some knowledge of an approximate value of your collection,” Cavanella suggested. You can find a doubloon database on collectorsphere.com, cointradingpost.com, mardi-gras-doubloons. com, and there’s a devout doubloon swapping group on eBay. You can also turn to the doubloon trading networks to price your doubloons. The Crescent City Doubloon Traders Club (ccdtclub.com) was founded in 1989, and they regularly hold doubloon swaps and produce an annual price guide.

The fascination with doubloons is uniquely New Orleans. And it’s not limited to Mardi Gras. Irish parades, marching krewes and newer holiday parades love to participate in this tradition. So, it might be time to get out all of those coins you’ve been saving and put them on display.

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WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 25

Your Official Where Y'at Mardi Gras Tool Kit

By Cassandra Damascus

F

or the sake of this list, let’s clarify who this is aimed for: someone without kids, without a Mardi Gras “campsite,” and without the luxury of a home near the Mardi Gras route (or a friend who lives nearby). Dear average Mardi Gras-goer without serious responsibilities, this tool kit is for you.

1. Bag

Pack wisely. Bring at least a cross body bag or fanny pack. For those of you who want to be hands-free, I would use a backpack (enough of beverages to last the evening typically don’t fit in a purse or fanny pack).

26 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

2. Alcohol

Don’t expect to easily obtain a drink along the route. It will be miserable to depend on bars, restaurants and friends for your libations for the night. Instead, be prepared! Pack water, soda, beer or liquor. I recommend mini (red) wine bottles (with accompanying plastic cups, of course). They’re light in your bag and don’t need to be kept cool to enjoy. And drinking wine is classy when compared to the lushes around you.

3. Straight Cash

day to night. New Orleans weather is wacky, and although the day parade may begin at 70 degrees, don’t be surprised when it drops to 40 degrees by 10 p.m. Sacrifice that sequin bikini top; at the end of the day, comfort outweighs costumes.

Gasp! For you fish out there, water is the last thing on your mind. But if you’re staying out day through night, you will need it. Force yourself to drink water whenever you can.

Most bars have a water cooler near their entrance.

7. Water

8. Transportation

Don’t expect it to be easy. If you choose to use a cab or Uber, expect those to be hard to come by, and if you’re too close to the party, you’ll be sitting in traffic. Be safe if you ride a bike, and make sure you use a U-lock. Drunk drivers are everywhere, so take side streets. Or just plan on walking since you’ll most likely end up walking anyway.

9. Meeting Place Unless you’re in the service or babysitting industry, you generally don’t have cash on hand. You should make an exception for Mardi Gras. Take five minutes to stop by the bank or get cash back at Walgreen’s. It’s easier to buy a drink with cash and get out of the crowded bar as fast as you can; this will keep you calm and prevent you from leaving a tab open. Keep cash on hand for street vendors and bathrooms, too.

I know this is such a ”mom thing,” but there are times when you lose a friend who wasn’t supposed to be lost. Choose a meeting spot just in case.

10. Throws Advice on Mardi Gras throws: Leave some room in your pocket or bag for your souvenirs.

Don’t pick beads up off the ground. Collecting plastic cups should be a top priority.

4. Bathrooms

Speaking of bathrooms, finding a bathroom during Mardi Gras is always an obstacle, especially if you’re a female. Pack some toilet paper, paper towels or napkins in your bag since toilet paper in bathrooms during Mardi Gras is a rare treat; and if you’re hiding in a bush, TP surely isn’t available. While we’re on the topic of bathrooms, I recommend bringing some water-free antibacterial hand sanitizer.

5. Phone Charger

With the high concentration of party-goers all simultaneously fighting for a cell phone signal, your phone battery will be zapped.

You never know where you’ll land or if a generous corner store owner will let you charge your phone, so bring it to be safe.

6. Comfort

Everyone knows to wear comfortable shoes, but make sure those comfortable shoes aren’t sandals. Mardi Gras gets gross, so I recommend shoes that you plan on throwing out or can clean (like rain boots). Don’t forget to bring an extra layer if you’re going from

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 27

A Local's Life How Three New Orleanians Celebrate Mardi Gras

By Leigh Wright

Y

es, it is that time of year again.

Long nights and longer weeks all roll together to form an epic Carnival season that leaves veterans rejuvenated with New Orleanian spirit, and novices depleted and broken yet in awe of our Mardi Gras traditions.

Everyone has their survival lists for Mardi Gras.

Robin They are reiterated and acted upon year after year until there is no room for missteps. My list is short and sweet: 1) Always carry a flask because bars are packed, 2) Know where the bathrooms are, 3) Be home by 5 p.m. on Mardi Gras Day.

28 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

Here is a rundown of what these three heavily invested Mardi Gras locals do to accomplish a successful Carnival season.

1. Robin Barnes, Songbird of New Orleans Although Robin isn’t a typical reveler (her music schedule is jam-packed throughout the year), she sees more Mardi Gras celebrations than almost anyone.

Barnes Typical Mardi Gras schedule: Catch her performing with her band at the Windsor Court and Hotel Monteleone every Friday and Saturday.

Favorite drink of the season: “I don’t drink alcohol, so I would maybe recommend a

Tucks 49

th

Annual Parade

TUCKS HAPPENS!

1,400 Members • 34 Floats Marching Bands & Equestrian Teams

K

nown for its irreverence, the Krewe of Tucks began in 1969 as a group of Loyola University students. The club takes its name from Friar Tuck, an uptown pub where two college students decided to create their own Carnival krewe after unsuccessfully trying to become white flambeaux carriers. The parade has grown from a small nighttime parade of pick-up trucks into a procession of major proportions. In 1983 the parade became a daytime event and in 1986 the parade route finally stretched to downtown. Even though the club has grown in size and stature, Tucks has not lost its sense of humor.

2017 will be the 49th year of the annual parade; it will feature 1,400 members (50% men and 50% women) on 34 floats, including marching groups and jazz bands as well as equestrian teams.

This year the Krewe rolls in honor of its co-founder and Captain Bobby Reichert, who passed away on December 28, 2016.

Bobby Reichert put his stamp on the Krewe of Tucks for 49 years, and he will be sorely missed by all.

Queen CC Kahr Wallis

CC Kahr Wallis is thrilled to reign as Queen XLIX. Wife of King XXXVII Brent Wallis, CC has been an active member of the Krewe for fourteen years. She is a graduate of Georgetown University and received her graduate degree in History at Stony Brook University. CC was raised in California and Maryland, but has called New Orleans home for over twelve years. She is the Executive Director of a local non-profit and works as an adjunct instructor at Tulane University. A resident of the Marigny, CC wishes everyone a happy and safe Mardi Gras season - Tucks style.

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In his 20th year with Tucks Wendel Dufour is ecstatic about reigning as King Tucks XLIX. Wendel captains the Naughtyham float, a Krewe of Tucks’ signature float and one of the largest single floats in Mardi Gras. He hasn’t missed a Mardi Gras in his 52 years, and loves taking his boys Ryan (11) and Alex (10) to as many parades as possible. King Tucks XLIX wishes everyone a wonderful Mardi Gras and looks forward to seeing all his family and friends during his reign!

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King Wendel Dufour

End

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 29

nice chai latte from Mojo to help people Areas of town to participate in Mardi cope with the late night Gras: “Everywhere has something fun partying.” going on, but pick Uptown or Favorite parades: Downtown and stay there!

“My favorite is Never drive.”

Muses, the fun Pick-me-up food: and all-woman “Popeye’s. Good hot krewe with or cold,” and, “Never GORGEOUS buy a king cake. and Someone has already decorative bought it and they are floats. I love everywhere.” the idea of Favorite part of the catching parade ride: “Hard the coveted to say. The city has Muses different phases along stiletto.” the route. Uptown, Favorite there are a lot of families Mardi Gras ball: and college kids. Then “Orpheus, for sure. you hit Lee Circle and the Bat p u e Bu From the live music to creates a totally nda Drum Gro diffbandstand the celebrities.” erent atmosphere since no To catch all of Robin’s one is on the ground.” appearances, go to her site or follow her on Typical Mardi Gras season: “From the Instagram and Facebook, where she is very Wednesday before Fat Tuesday to the active and always has regular updates.

Wednesday right after. It’s a long and exhausting week.”

2. “Anonymous” Two-Krewe Parade Notes to parade viewers: “Don’t throw Rider stuff back at us and don’t keep screaming if Don’t-miss parades: Krewe du Vieux and we are stopped. I’ve seen so many people Muses. get upset if we don’t give them what they Drinking: “Bourbon milk punch in the want. Like high school boys visibly infuriated. morning is so good.”

But we have to last the entire parade with On being a parade rider: “Like being a those throws.” rock-n-roll star for a day,” and, “I once rode Best costume you’ve ever worn: “I don’t in three parades but vowed never to do that know. I’m unfortunately in suits most of the again. My arm was so sore from throwing.” time.”

3. Rickie, the Fun-Loving, Millennial having my Mardi Gras cocktail and pushing Reveler in the “Alternative” Krewes the Interrobang float towards the St. Ann Plans for Mardi Gras: He will march Parade by 8 a.m. Then we’ll walk as a krewe with Bate Bunda (the Brazilian drum group towards the French Quarter. Catch us on typically found performing in Hi-Ho Lounge Royal Street!” or outside Jazz Fest) in Chewbacchus and What does Interrobang mean?: “Kind Krewe Delusion, be seen serving up food of a mixture between a question mark with Congresso Cubano at Musicbox, and and exclamation point.” Google defines it walking on Fat Tuesday with Interrobang. as “a punctuation mark designed for use How would you describe Mardi Gras to a especially at the end of an exclamatory visitor?: “It’s the most magical time of year rhetorical question.” and it's a faux pas to wear a costume more What is the Interrobang float this year?: than once in the two weeks.”

“Gillian the Space Whale.”

Where should people go to appreciate Mardi Gras?: “There are many That’s it! I wish Mardi Gras ways to celebrate. You can go was more complicated Uptown and watch the and there was a more traditional side, secret rule book, or stay Downtown but there isn’t. and go to unique Mardi Gras is venues to see the a beautiful crazier parties. time because But certainly don’t you learn to stick to just one move with the side of Mardi subconscious Gras. Get it from and see all angles.” the beauty When does around you. your season start?: Whether you “Twelfth Night!” are going big or Your favorite Mardi just going home Gras morning cocktail: this Mardi Gras “A full Gingeroo bottle season, remember of cold brew, cream and the remember the Inte rrobang's Rickie old adage that every bourbon. That’ll really kick start your Fat Tuesday.” local agrees on: “It’s a Plans for Fat Tuesday: “I typically am marathon, not a sprint.”

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Mardi Gras is one big party to be enjoyed by not only locals but practically anyone who wants to let their inhibitions go. We all know about the numerous parades, floats, beads, the famous colors and more, but what about other celebratory ways outside of the usual?

With Mardi Gras having its own set of norms, a brief escape from the noise and crowds isn’t always out of order. So how can one capitalize on keeping traditions alive in the confines of a more “sophisticated” environment?

Here are a few ideas for you: Costume Party: You can easily opt with friends to rent a venue, big or small, and create a costumethemed party while still keeping the traditional colors. Have a caterer provide you and your guests food, bring your own masks, hire a DJ for music, offer an open bar, and more, which will give you the whole nine. However, if you want to scale back on the expenses, try a home dinner party instead. You can still keep the costume theme, use a playlist instead of a DJ, and create a menu for your guests to be served.

Potluck and Games Party: Not necessarily out of the dinner party range but a little more unique. Have a bowl of beads and masks of choice for your guests at the front door. Once they arrive, they can sort through the variety, all while bringing over a favorite dish for everyone to enjoy. Instead of music, choose a plethora of games as your entertainment (not the kind that will get you arrested, of course). Don’t forget to add a king cake to the bunch!

A Mystery Party: Since masks are often worn and seen in the French Quarter, a mystery party at your home, backyard or whatever location you prefer

can add playful anticipation. You can start by purchasing feathered masks for your guests.

Now, logically, each guest will know who the host is or the person who orchestrates it.

Therefore, greet each attendee at the door to ensure that the masks are worn. Feathered masks are better suited for disguises or mystery-type soirees. You can still include activities and a game of “Guess Who” to be enjoyed by everyone.

International Celebrations: Though it may not always be the first thing you think about, the Mardi Gras celebration does have ties to China. The abundance of brightly colored beads that get thrown and later discarded during Mardi Gras are manufactured in China. If you have diverse friends, family or acquaintances, try paying homage to the Chinese culture with a sit-down dinner. Create the décor with colors revolving around purple, gold and green with pillows to match. Examine the cultural climate of a place you’ve visited outside of the U.S. or another location where Carnival is celebrated, such as Rio de Janeiro. Then apply your learning to create a different ambiance without minimizing the party effect.

Overall, there are a variety of ways to celebrate the event. Mardi Gras has a rich history dating back to its conception on March 2, 1699, so think outside of the box for next year’s occurrence. Trade in your regular street attire for a more upscale option and minimize the excessive crowds. Don’t forget to introduce your guests to creative invitations showcasing location, menu and a specific attire. Also, be sure to include other options you believe your guests would be open to. Elegant tables filled with candles and decorative gifts are not too far out for another fun-filled reverence.

Westbank Mardi Gras Parades - A Remembrance By Burke Bischoff

T

here’s no doubt in my mind that everyone in the Greater New Orleans area has some type of fond Mardi Gras memory from their early years. Carnival is so ingrained into our culture and our very identity that it’s hard not to have experienced it in some shape or form, like having house parties, drinking with loved ones in the city, and especially going out to take part in the beautiful parades that roll for this festive occasion.

New Orleans holds some of the most spectacular parades of the season like Endymion, Zulu, Rex and many more that have special places in people’s hearts. However, for me, my most treasured parade experiences were always where I grew up—on the Westbank.

Having been born in Gretna in the early 90s, I vaguely remember that my family and I were able to trek around most of the Westbank to see almost all of the parades that were close to us. I recall waving my hands in the air, screaming to the heavens, and getting hit in the head by beads from Grela, Aladdin, Choctaw, Poseidon, King Arthur, Adonis, Marc Anthony, NOMTOC and Ulysses.

Of course, there would never be a Mardi Gras season for us unless we made sure to hit up two of the biggest parades we had on the Westbank: Cleopatra, an allfemale krewe, and Alla, which used to be an all-male krewe and will be celebrating its 85th anniversary this year. Our favorite go-to spots for these parades were near the Burger King on Terry Parkway in Terrytown and underneath the Westbank Expressway

after walking there from Garden Park. As a kid, I was enthralled and terrified by the giant decorated floats that would pass us by. I would shiver and shake to the rhythm of the drum cadences from the local high school bands and would give off a happy squeal whenever I successfully caught some Mardi Gras beads, then proceed to get a crick in my neck from proudly wearing all of my loot for the rest of the parade.

By the time I started attending Archbishop Shaw High School, the number of krewes parading on the Westbank had already started to dwindle. King Arthur moved to Uptown in 2001 and Aladdin, Marc Anthony, Poseidon and Ulysses are sadly no more. I joined the marching band in high school and our band director always made it a point to have us participate in some of the local parades that were going on each year (he also bribed us with a free pizza party if we marched in all of the parades for each season). These parades usually included Endymion, Druids, Thoth and, much to my glee, Cleopatra and Alla. I can hardly describe the feelings I had when I found out that I would be marching in two of the parades I had grown up watching. I would be in the parades that had given me such childhood happiness.

If you’ve never ridden in a float or marched in a parade for Mardi Gras, then you are missing out on an interesting experience, especially if you are participating in a parade that’s rolling near where you grew up. Marching through Gretna and Terrytown for five years during my high school career, it was very weird to see myself from an entirely different perspective.

I went from cheering and having the time of my life on the sidewalk to being cheered at while playing music in the middle of the street. While the promise of free pizza was like being offered solid gold to my teenaged self, I think what honestly made me continue to march in Cleopatra and Alla for five years was seeing all of the crowds that came out for the parades.

Having been to all of the different Westbank parades as a kid, it didn’t finally strike me how these parades can draw a community together until I was away from the crowds. All of the parades brought the Westbank together in a big way. During my time in the band, I saw hundreds of people, most of whom I didn’t know, but I could always pick out at least one familiar face every time we marched. And they all came together to have a great time as a community. They drank their water or alcohol from their personal coolers, let

their children get up close to the throwers who gave them all of the best throws that could be caught, gave roaring cheers and called out the names of all of the bands that passed them, and occasionally threw beads or beer cans at us if they were having a bit too much fun. It was a beautiful sight to see and encompassed what I believe is Mardi Gras’s greatest defining role: to bring together strangers in a community, where everyone—adults and children alike—can have a great time with each other.

Unfortunately, since having graduated from college in 2015, I’ve witnessed the number of parades that are still on the Westbank decrease even more. Cleopatra, Choctaw and Alla have since moved their routes to Uptown, and Grela hasn’t been parading since 2012, leaving NOMTOC and Adonis as the only Westbank parades that are rolling for the 2017 season. The biggest reason I see that these parades keep moving to the other side of the river is that they’re not getting local support anymore.

Many Westbankers are either going to the Eastbank to see parades or are not going out at all. These Westbank parades were rolling through empty streets and they just couldn’t support themselves if hardly anyone showed up to see them. The sense of coming together as a community that I saw when I was younger just isn’t happening anymore and it’s hurting Mardi Gras for everyone on our side of the river.

However, there can still be a future for Mardi Gras on the Westbank if the local communities from the Westbank, and even the Eastbank and beyond, come out to support the parades that are still here and are still running—Adonis and NOMTOC. As of this writing, Adonis is scheduled to roll on Saturday, February 18, at 11:45 a.m. and NOMTOC is planned for Saturday, February 25, at 10:45 a.m. Also, the Krewe of Athena has been planning and requesting to move its route from Metairie to Terrytown for the 2017 season.

The Uptown and Mid-City parades are a sight to behold, but we can’t forget about the other parades that are putting in the effort to give us a fun Mardi Gras for everyone. It truly does hurt to see local communities no longer going out to the parades they once so loved to take part in.

Go out and show your support for these parades so that, in the future, we as local Westbankers can still have a reason to bring our children out to have a real good “Carnival time” on the Bestbank.

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 33

Rio de Janeiro

Carnival Around the World

By Kimmie Tubre

T

he air is filled with joy, laughter and, in some parts of the city, a whole lot of debauchery. Some people love to stand along St. Charles Avenue with a big tent over their heads as oversized floats glide through the crowd throwing beads and other whatnots. Others prefer to have a less intense celebration on Veterans Avenue, sitting in stands decorated in purple, green and gold. When day turns to night, as the saying goes, all the freaks join the party—ready to take in all the abundance before those patrol horses do their midnight stroll of escorting the street cleaners, preparing for the holy season.

Welcome to the wondrous world of Carnival. A time we, in New Orleans, call Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday). A time where the only important decisions are related to parking, food, alcohol, and whether you’ll stand on the “sidewalk” or the “neutral ground” (median) side.

While Mardi Gras in the Big Easy is the best in the USA (sorry, Mobile, Alabama), we aren’t the only group of party animals celebrating Carnival. In fact, the celebration that is directly related to Ash Wednesday is celebrated in many parts of the world— all parts having the same feeling of over indulgence before a more peaceful season. For us, that peaceful season is Lent. But for several other cultures, the season Carn relates to everything from ival Lent to harvest to hibernation.

No matter the differences, one thing is true for all: Carnival is a time for forgetting

your worries, letting it all hang loose, and living life to the fullest.

Carnival Around the World Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: February 24-28, 2017 You can’t mention Carnival without talking about the elaborate colorful celebration demonstrated in Brazil. While many parts of Brazil celebrate Carnival, it's safe to say that Rio has the most famous Carnival celebration of them all. The celebration alone draws in millions of people each year. Rio has been hosting their annual Carnival since 1723 and is said to have some of the most amazing floats you’ll ever see. While the floats are e in Venic well organized, festival-goers are allowed to freely fill the streets and party with the masses.

34 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

Carnival in Venice, Italy: February 11-28, 2017 If you ever set foot on the ground in Venice, Italy, you’ll notice that the similarities between New Orleans and Venice are astounding. Venice, also known as “The Floating City,” is a beautiful, historical one-of-a-kind place.

Its extremely narrow streets, multitude of masquerade shops, and all of its excessive decadence makes it the perfect Carnival destination. Not to mention, Binc he every angle of this city is postcard-worthy. Venice’s Carnival celebration is one of the most historic and dates back to ancient times. It’s been documented that the Carnival celebrated in New Orleans is directly related to the ones of ancient Europe.

Trinidad and Tobago Carnival: February 27-28, 2017 From soca to calypso, if you want to dance your feet off during the Carnival season, then look no further than the beautiful island of Trinidad. Brightly colored costumes decorate only the most private parts of the attendees as they spend two days of shaking, twisting and drinking a whole lotta rum. This Carnival opens with J’Ouvert, where parade-goers stroll the streets, decorating themselves in colorful paint, and dancing from the middle of the night until sunrise. The thought of fitting one of the biggest parties in the world onto a small island is enough to allure the masses.

Binche Carnival, Belgium: February 2628, 2017 Looking for something strange but interesting?

Belgium has an interesting history and nothing shows it more than their Carnival celebration, where clown-like performers known as Gilles dance through the streets wearing various costumes, including waxy masks and large feathered crowns. Sound familiar? Carrying sticks and baskets of oranges to throw at festival attendees, these Gilles ward off bad spirits and bring vigor and longevity.

Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Canary Islands): February 19March 5, 2017 Considered the second most popular Carnival celebration after Rio, Tenerife Carnival

is an elaborate expression of vibrant colors, over-the-top costumes and decadence. To top it all off, the celebration lasts for an entire month.

The people of Tenerife take partying quite seriously and Carnival is no exception. The month is filled with parades, fireworks, concerts, dancing and an immense amount of fun. Not only is the festival ideal, but the island itself is an absolutely stunning location to spend your Carnival holiday.

Carnival Other Carnivals Around the World (Not directly related to Ash Wednesday) • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Lagos Carnival, Lagos, Nigeria Notting Hill Carnival, London, England Toronto International Carnival Parade, Toronto, Canada Bacchanal Jamaica, Kingston, Jamaica The Carnival of Oruro, Oruro, Bolivia The Nice Carnival on the French Riviera, Nice, France Carnaval de Barranquilla, Barranquilla, Colombia Strumica Carnival, Macedonia Banyuwangi Ethno Carnival, Indonesia Asakusa Samba Carnival, Tokyo, Japan Tropical Carnival, Paris, France Bali Art Festival, Bali, Indonesia Carnival of Cultures, Berlin, Germany

Trinidad & Tobago

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 35

"Can I Crash at Your Place for Mardi Gras?"

How to Say No, and What to Do After You Say Yes

By Cassandra Damascus

D

isclaimer: This article is geared toward young professionals who have a full-time job, a small dwelling, and have been participating in Mardi Gras activities for years.

Unless you go out of your way to invite family and friends to Mardi Gras festivities, chances are you aren’t planning to have guests. And considering you’re young, you probably don’t have the time or money to be a Martha Stewartscale host.

First, if you’re receiving the selfinvitation via text, the “guest” either isn’t serious about following through with the visit, or they are pretty sure you will say no to their request. And if “no” just happens to be what you want to tell them, below are some excuses to try.

36 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

How to say no to family: Tell them friends are already crashing at your place.

Is your mom a “cool mom” and insists that she won’t take up much room?

Assure Mom that it’s not her; you just don’t want her to have to deal with your friends. Besides avoiding having guests, you will now be depicted as a mature, highly considerate son or daughter.

How to say no to friends: Tell them your family is staying with you that weekend. Better yet, tell them your boyfriend or girlfriend’s family is staying with you that weekend.

Common concern: social media. What happens if your friends find out your family isn’t staying with you, or vice versa?

Just say, “They changed their plans.”

You’re an adult; you don’t need to explain your lies.

I’m a sucker and said yes. Now what?: The last thing you want to be is the host and tour guide. I recommend you (kindly) reiterate the fact that although they will be vacationing, you still have to go to work. Worse comes to worst, blame it on work. No one can blame you for that. And if they do, you don’t need to be friends with unemployed Phish groupies anyway.

I would send a text or email two weeks in advance with top things to do in New Orleans during the day and top things to do at night. Yes, this will take time and possibly research from your end, but it’ll be worth it. When the visitors look to you for ideas, remind them that you sent them ideas two weeks ago and that you have work to do.

Most visitors won’t expect a full spread, but you should have some items handy: water bottles, a frozen pizza, bottle of wine, Advil, granola bars and toothpaste. If you really want to look like

you‘re adulting, I recommend whipping up something in the crockpot.

Depending on your visitors and length of their stay, it should last for a few meals.

Since cellphones perform below par in crowds (due to the overcrowding of networks) and the battery drains faster than my life, make sure your visitors have your address and phone number in their pockets. You may want the visitor to “get lost” but not actually get lost.

Since you have to work in the morning, you may not be able to stay out all night with your visitors. Make sure they have a key or passcode, or make sure they know where the hidden key can be found.

You don’t want to be woken up at 3 a.m. to let your rowdy friends into the house.

Show them the Mardi Gras Tool Kit article on page 26! This way they can handle themselves like locals (and adults).

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 37

MUSICCALENDAR Maple Leaf Bar - The Trio feat. Johnny Vidacovich & Special Guest Rock ’n’ Bowl - Leroy Thomas Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Geoff Clapp Quartet Three Keys - NolaAmericana w/ Lynn Drury Three Muses - Tom McDermott, Gal Holiday

BillyJoel The Piano Man himself will be tickling the ivories on the big stage at the Smoothie King Center. Grab tickets now; his hit-packed back catalogue draws massive, sold-out crowds everywhere, and New Orleans is no different. Fri., Feb. 10. $40+ Adv, 8:00 p.m., Smoothie King Center, smoothiekingcenter.com Monday, January 30 Blue Nile - Brass A Holics Bombay Club - Josh Paxton Carver Theater - Papa Mali Chickie Wah Wah - Alex McMurray & Spencer Bohren, Benny Maygarden & Thomas Walker d.b.a. - Alexis & The Samurai, Glen David Andrews Dragon’s Den - Hangover Mondays w/ DJ III Medina Festival Hall Theatre at Bamboula's - Ultrafaux & Michael Joseph Harris Little Gem - Marc Stone Maison - Chicken & Waffles, Aurora Nealand & the Royal Roses, Mutuny Squad Maple Leaf Bar - The Porter Trio Three Muses - Joe Cabral Tuesday, January 31 Bombay Club - Matt Lemmler Chickie Wah Wah - Albanie Falletta, Alvin Youngblood Hart d.b.a - DinosAurchestr, Treme Brass Band Maison - Ramblin’ Letters, Gregory Agid Quartet, Native Swing Maple Leaf Bar - Rebirth Brass Band Poor Boys Bar - Negative Gemini, George Clanton, Drab Majesty Siberia - Aesthetic Perfection Three Muses Maple - Jon Roniger Wednesday, February 1 Bombay Club - Kris Tokarski Carver Theater - Jumbo Shrimp Jazz Band Chickie Wah Wah - Evan Christopher & Tom McDermott, Rubin/Wilson Folk-Blues Explosion, Brad Walker Band Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Tin Men, Walter Wolfman Washington & The Roadmasters Dos Jefes - The George French Trio Dragon’s Den - Dancehall Classics w/ DJ T-Roy Gasa Gasa - N.O.T.S.

Hi-Ho Lounge - Mainline House of Blues - Jet Lounge in the Parish Jazz Playhouse - Glen David Andrews Kerry Irish Pub - Beth Patterson Little Gem - Reid Poole Duo Maison - The Slick Skillet Serenaders, The New Orleans Jazz Vipers, Dana Abbott Band Maple Leaf Bar - Yakamein: Terrence “Groove Guardian” Houston, June Yamagishi, Keiko Komaki & Jerry “JBlakk” Henderson Rock ’n’ Bowl - The Yat Pack Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Uptown Jazz Orchestra Three Keys - Helen Gillet + 1 Special Guest Three Muses - Leslie Marting, Hot Club of New Orleans Three Muses Maple - Lynn Drury Tipitina’s - Dean Ween Group Thursday, February 2 Aloft Hotel - Danny Abel Bar Redux - Ryan Gregory Floyd and TLark Bombay Club - Kris Tokarski w/ Rex Gregory Buffa’s - Tom McDermott and Aurora Nealand, Tom Saunders and the The Hot Cats Carver Theater - Yount Pinstripe Brass Band Chickie Wah Wah - Phil Degruy and more Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. - Kala Bazaar Swing Society, Little Freddie King Dos Jefes - The Todd Duke Trio Hi-Ho Lounge - Vibe Street House of Blues - August Burns Red, Messengers, Protest the Hero, In Hearts Wake Jazz Playhouse - Ashlin Parker Trio, Shannon Powell Joy Theater - Stand Up NOLA Gasa Gasa - Austra Kerry Irish Pub - Beth Patterson Le Bon Temps Roule - The Soul Rebels Little Gem - Michael Watson Presents:The Alchemy Maison - The Good For Nothin’ Band & Sweet Substitute Jazz Band

38 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

Friday, February 3 Aloft Hotel - John Culbreth Trio Bar Mon Cher - Nathan Rivera and Friends Blue Nile - Kermit Ruffins Bombay Club - Don Vappie Buffa’s - Davis Rogan, Luna Mora Chickie Wah Wah - Lynn Drury Band, Michael Pearce Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. - Hot Club of New Orleans, Ike Stubblefield Trio Dos Jefes- Tom Fitzpatrick & Turning Point Dragon’s Den - Loose Marbles, The Tipping Point w/ DJ RQ Away House of Blues - Brass-a-Holics plus Tysson Jazz Playhouse - Joe Krown, Quiana Lynell Kerry Irish Pub - The One Tailed Three, Van Hudson Little Gem - John Mooney Maison - Kala Bazaar Swing Society, Shotgun Jazz Band Maple Leaf Bar - New Orleans Suspects Orpheum Theater - Beethoven “Pastoral” Symphony Republic - Bijou Rock ’n’ Bowl - The Wiseguys Siberia - Goatwhore Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Ellis Marsalis Quintet Three Keys - Dilla Day Nola IV ft. The Grid Band Three Muses Maple - Monty Banks, Linnzi Zaorski Tipitina’s - The Gladiators ft. Droop Lion Saturday, February 4 Bar Mon Cher - Barbarella Blue Blue Nile - Johnny Sketch & The Dirty Notes Bombay Club - Kris Tokarski Quartet Buffa’s - Arsene DeLay: Tribute to Lillian Boutte, Jazz Youth Showcase, Some Like It Hot Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - George Porter Jr. & his Runnin’ Pardners Dos Jefes - The Roebucks Buddy Holly Tribute Dragon’s Den - Sexy Back Saturdays w/ DJ Dizzi + DJ III Medina House of Blues - Loumuzik Live Jazz Playhouse - James Rivers Kerry Irish Pub - Hurricane Refugees, Vali Talbot Little Gem - Kermit Ruffins and the BBQ Swingers LA Music Factory - Quinan Lynell, Haruka Kikuchi, Dick Deluxe Maison - Leah Rucker, Smoking Time Jazz Club, Pinettes Brass Band + The Resident Aliens Maple Leaf Bar - New Orleans Suspects Fundraiser for New Orleans Musicians Clinic Republic - Angel Olsen Rock ’n’ Bowl - Thousand $ Car plus the Creole String Beans Saenger Theatre - Dancing With the Stars LIVE! We Came to Dance Shamrock - PaperChase Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Ike Stubblefield Organ Trio w/ Herlin Riley & Detroit Brooks Three Keys - Debauche Three Muses - Debbie Davis, Shotgun Jazz Band, Chris Christy Three Muses Maple - Davy Mooney, Marc Stone Duo Tipitina’s - Nate Hancook & The Declaration Sunday, February 5 Bar Mon Cher - Fools Gold String Band

Bombay Club - David Boeddinghaus Buffa’s - Gerald French Trio, Jazz Youth Showcase, Some Like It Hot Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. - Bon Bon Vivantl Dragon’s Den - CHURCH* Howlin’ Wolf - Hot 8 Brass Band Jazz Playhouse - George Porter Jr Trio w/ Special Guest Maison - Chance Bushman & The NOLA Jitterbugs, Royal Street Winding Boys, The Slick Street Serenaders, Higher Heights Maple Leaf Bar - Joe Krown Trio + Seither’s Seafood Crawfish Boil Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Players Ella & Louie Tribute Band Three Muses - Raphael et Pascal, Linnzi Zaorski Three Muses Maple - Debbie Davis & Josh Paxton Monday, February 6 Bombay Club - Josh Paxton Buffa’s - Antoine Diel, Arsene Delay Chickie Wah Wah - Alex McMurray, Matthew Schreiber Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Alexis & the Samurai, Glen David Andrews Dos Jefes - John Fohl Dragon’s Den - The New Orleans Jazz Manouche, Hangover Mondays w/ DJ III Medina Jazz Playhouse - Abstract feat. Gerald French Kerry Irish Pub - Patrick Cooper Maison - Chicken & Waffles, Aurora Nealand & The Royal Roses, Brass Lightning Maple Leaf Bar - The Porter Trio Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Charmaine Neville Band Three Muses - Bart Ramsey, Washboard Rodeo Tuesday, February 7 Bar Mon Cher - Brian Wingard Bombay Club - Tom Hook Chickie Wah Wah - Albanie Falletta, Jon Cleary Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Dino Aurchestra, Treme Brass Band Dos Jefes - Wendell Brunious Jazz Playhouse - Little Freddie King Jr. Kerry Irish Pub - Jason Bishop Little Gem - Nola Dukes Showcase Maison - Claire & The Company, Gregory Agid Quartet, Raja Kassis Maple Leaf Bar - Rebirth Brass Band Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Johnny Vidacovich Trio Three Muses - Messy Cookers Three Muses Maple - Jon Roniger Wednesday, February 8 Bombay Club - Kris Tokarski Chickie Wah Wah - Evan Christopher & Tom McDermott, Rubin/Wilson Folk-Blues Explosion, Tasche de la Rocha, Travis Linville Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Tin Men, Walter Wolfman Washington & The Roadmasters Dos Jefes - The George French Trio Dragon’s Den - Dancehall Classics w/ DJ T-Roy’s Bayou International Sound System House of Blues - Jet Lounge in the Parish Jazz Playhouse - Tank & The Bangas Kerry Irish Pub - Will Dickerson Little Gem - Reid Poole Duo Maison - Kala Bazaar Swing Society, The New Orleans Jazz Vipers, RnR Music Group Maple Leaf Bar - Yakamein: Terrence “Groove Guardian” Houston, June Yamagishi, Keiko Komaki & Jerry “JBlakk” Henderson Rock ’n’ Bowl - Swing Night with Gal Holiday Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Uptown Jazz Orchestra

w/ Delfeayo Marsalis Three Muses - Hot Club of New Orleans, Leslie Martin Three Muses Maple - Lynn Drury Thursday, February 9 Aloft Hotel - Tom Witek Quartet Bombay Club - Kris Tokarski w/ Hal Smith Buffa’s - Gumbo Cabaret, Tom McDermott and Aurora Nealand Chickie Wah Wah - Phil Degruy Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Andrew Duhon Dos Jefes - Haruka Kikuchi & The Big 4Tune Band Jazz Playhouse - Ashlin Parker Trio Kerry Irish Pub - Three w/ Mark Carson Le Bon Temps Roule - The Soul Rebels Little Gem - Michael Watson Presents:The Alchemy Masion - The Good For Nothin’ Band, The Roamin’ Jasmine, Dysfuncktional Bone Maple Leaf Bar - The Trio feat. Johnny Vidacovich & Special Guests Rock ’n’ Bowl - Chris Ardoin Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Craig Klein & Donna’s Revisited Three Keys - Little Cosmicana w/ McGregor and Midriff Three Muses - Tom McDermott Three Muses Maple - Sam Cammarata Friday, February 10 Aloft Hotel- Mighty Brother Bar Mon Cher - 8 Dice Cloth Blue Nile - Sonic Bloom Bombay Club - Tim Laughlin Buffa’s - Ben Fox Trio, Sherman Bernard and the Ole Man River Band Chickie Wah Wah - Michael Pearce, Paul Sanchez Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & the Golden Eagles, Smoking Time Jazz Club

Dos Jefes - The Panorama Jazz Band Dragon’s Den - Loose Marbles, The Tipping Point w/ DJ RQ Away Howlin’ Wolf - Kurt Metzger plus Barry Crimmins Jazz Playhouse - Brassaholics, Joe Krown Kerry Irish Pub - Chip Wilson & Mark Carroll, Mark Appleford Le Bon Temps Roule - Mickey B3 Burkart Little Gem - Rosie Flores & Dayna Kurtz Maison - Eight Dice Cloth, Shotgun Jazz Band, Soul Project + The Big Easy Brawlers Maple Leaf Bar - Kettle Black, Kristin Diable & the City Rock ’n’ Bowl - Flow Tribe Smoothie King Center - Billy Joel Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Ellis Marsalis Quintet Three Muses Maple - Linnzi Zaorski, Monty Banks Tipitina’s - Lost Bayou Ramblers & Maggie Koerner Saturday, February 11 Bar Mon Cher - Barbarella Blue Blue Nile - Naughty Professor Bombay Club - Riverside Jazz Collective Buffa’s - Lucas Davenport, Phil The Tremelo King, Red Hot Jazz Band, Swamp Kitchen Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Tuba Skinny, Rebirth Brass Band Dos Jefes - Sunpie & The LA. Sunspots Dragon’s Den - Kala Bazaar Swing Society, Sexy Back Saturdays w/ DJ Dizzi + DJ III Medina Jazz Playhouse - Flowtribe Kerry Irish Pub - Patrick Cooper, Roux The Day! Little Gem - Glenn David Andrews LA Music Factory - Lost Bayou Ramblers, David L. Harris Maison - Chance Bushman & The Ibervillianaires, Ramblin’ Letters, Smoking Time Jazz Club, Brassaholics Maple Leaf Bar - Nigel Hall Band Rock ’n’ Bowl - Karma Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Carlo & the Fabrichaters

UNO Lakefront Arena - Valentine’s Music Festival feat. Keith Sweat, Bobby Brown, & El Debarge Sunday, February 12 Bar Mon Cher - Bedowin Buddah, Fools Gold String Band Bombay Club - David Boeddinghaus Buffa’s - Jazz Youth Showcase, Some Like It Hot, Steve Pistorius, Orange Kellin, James Evans and Benny Amon Chickie Wah Wah - The Fleshtones w/ the Call Girls Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. - The Palmetto Bug Stompers Dragon’s Den - CHURCH* House of Blues - P.O.S. plus Ceschi Howlin’ Wolf - Hot 8 Brass Band Jazz Playhouse - Germaine Bazzle Kerry Irish Pub - Chip Wilson Maison - Bushman & The NOLA Jitterbugs, Hokum High Rollers, Royal Street Wingding Boys, Higher Heights Maple Leaf Bar - Joe Krown Trio + Seither’s Seafood Crawfish Boil Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Davy Mooney All Star CD Party Three Muses Maple - Debbie Davis & Josh Paxton Monday, February 13 Bombay Club - Josh Paxton Buffa’s - Antoine Diel, Arsene Delay Chickie Wah Wah - Alex Murray, Lynn Drury Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. - Alexis & the Samurai, Glen David Andrews Dos Jefes - John Fohl Dragon’s Den - The New Orleans Jazz Manouche, Hangover Mondays w/ DJ III Medina House of Blues - Dashboard Confessional & The Expendables Howlin’ Wolf - David Dondero + Sam Doores, Esther Rose, Fish Plate Jazz Playhouse - Original Tuxedo Band

y l i m a F 2017

g r as e e t s M A Je s t y M ic s u M e r e Wh

FEB. 17 - 19

Kerry Irish Pub - Mark Appleford Maison - Chicken & Waffles, Aurora Nealand & The Royal Roses, VegasCola Maple Leaf Bar - The Porter Trio Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Charmaine Neville Band Tuesday, February 14 Bar Mon Cher - Bedowin Buddah Bombay Club - Tom Hook Chickie Wah Wah - Albanie Falletta, Jon Cleary Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. - DinoAuchestra, Treme Brass Band Dos Jefes - Wendell Brunious Jazz Playhouse - Nayo Jones Experience Kerry Irish Pub - Jason Bishop Little Gem - Valentine’s Day w/ T’Shairra Maison - Amina Scott & Friends, Gregory Agid Quartet Maple Leaf Bar - Rebirth Brass Band Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Topsy Chapman & Solid Harmony Three Muses Maple - Jon Roniger Wednesday, February 15 Bombay Club - Kris Tokarski Chickie Wah Wah - Aurora Nealand & Tom McDermott, Rubin/Wilson Folk-Blues Explosion Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. - Tin Men, Walter Wolfman Washington & The Roadsters Dos Jefes - The George French Trio Dragon’s Den - Dancehall Classics w/ DJ T-Roy’s Bayou International Sound System House of Blues - Jet Lounge in the Parish Jazz Playhouse - Tom Hook and Wendell Brunious Kerry Irish Pub - Patrick Cooper Little Gem - Reid Poole Duo Maison - The Slick Skillet Serenaders, The New Orleans Jazz Vipers, Danny Abel & Friends Maple Leaf Bar - Yakamein: Terrence “Groove Guardian” Houston, June Yamagishi, Keiko Komaki

>>>> FIFtH HArMonY <<<< >>>>>>> Lee BrICe <<<<<<< > JessIe JAMes DeCKer < >>>>> tHe CoWsILLs <<<<< >>> tHe AssoCIAtIon <<< >>>> tonY orLAnDo <<<< > IMAgInAtIon MoVers < BIg sAM’s FUnKY nAtIon

| Free ConCerts I CArnIVAL I CUIsIne I CrAFts

ExpEriEncE onE of AmEricA’s most EntErtAining, frEE, opEn-Air fEstivAls. Just minutes away from New Orleans, enjoy Mardi Gras at Family Gras in Jefferson, across from Lakeside Mall.

With free concerts, the colorful pageantry of carnival parades, food, arts and crafts, and activities for the kids, Family Gras is one of America’s most original getaways.

For a Backstage Experience or more information visit w w w. Fa m i l y G r a s .co m o r fo l l o w u s o n Fa ce b o o k !

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 39

& Jerry “JBlakk” Henderson Rock ’n’ Bowl - Big Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys Saenger Theatre - Dave Chappelle & Chris Tucker Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Tom Saunders & the Tom Cats Three Muses Maple - Sam Cammarata Thursday, February 16 Aloft Hotel - Duz Mancini Bombay Club - Kris Tokarski w/ Tim Laughlin Buffa’s - Miles Lyons and Steve Pistorius, Tom McDermott and Aurora Nealand Chickie Wah Wah - Phil Degruy Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. - Roamin’ Jasmine, Sam Price & the True Believers Dos Jefes - The Loren Pickford Quartet Dragon’s Den - Amina Scott Trio House of Blues - Wax Tailor plus L’Orange Jazz Playhouse - Ashlin Parker, James Rivers Movement Joy Theater - Yonder Mountain String Band and G.Love & Special Sauce Kerry Irish Pub - Foot & Friends Le Bon Temps Roule - The Soul Rebels Little Gem - Michael Watson Presents:The Alchemy Three Keys - Soundbytes w/ PJ Morton & Friends Maison - The Good For Nothin’ Band, The Asylum Chorus, Dysfunktional Bone Maple Leaf Bar - The Trio feat. Johnny Vidacovich & Special Guests Rock ’n’ Bowl - Nathan & The Zydeco Cha-Chas Saenger Theatre - Dave Chappelle & Chris Tucker Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - The Bridge Trio Three Muses Maple - Linnzi Zaorski Friday, February 17 Aloft Hotel - Kelcy Wilburn Bar Mon Cher - The Roamin’ Jasmine Bombay Club - Matthew Shilling Buffa’s - Andre Bohren, Greg Schatz Chickie Wah Wah - Michael Pearce Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Cyril Neville & Swamp Funk, Tuba Skinny Dos Jefes - Vivaz!

Dragon’s Den - Loose Marbles, The Tipping Point w/ DJ RQ Away Family Gras - Creole String Beans, The Cowsills & The Association Jazz Playhouse - Joe Krown, Luther Kent Kerry Irish Pub - The One Tailed Three, Will Dickerson Band Little Gem - Jon Roniger & The Good for Nothin’ Band Maple Leaf Bar - Gravity A Rock ’n’ Bowl - Groovy 7, The Essentials Saenger Theatre - Dave Chappelle & Chris Tucker

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Ellis Marsalis Quintet Three Muses Maple - Monty Banks Tipitina’s - John Papa Gros Band Carnival Kickoff w/ Special Guests UNO Lakefront Arena - Festival of Laughs Saturday, February 18 Bar Mon Cher - Barbarella Blue Bombay Club - Matt Johnson Buffa’s - Dayna Kurtz, Red Hot Jazz Band, Salt Wives Chickie Wah Wah - John Doe Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Soul Rebels Dos Jefes - The Betty Shirley Band Dragon’s Den - Claire & The Company, Sexy Back Saturdays w/ DJ Dizzi + DJ III Medina Family Gras - Fifth Harmony, Tony Orlando, Big Sam's Funky Nation, Paris Avenue & Imagination Movers Gasa Gasa - Radio Dept.

House of Blues - Wild Adriatic Jazz Playhouse - Michael Watson Kerry Irish Pub - Hurricane Refugees, St.Claude Serenaders Little Gem - Carmela Rappazo Trio Maison - Chance Bushman & The Ibervillianaires, Leah Rucker, Smoking Time Jazz Club, The Swinging Gypsies, Khris Royal & Dark Matter + The Big Easy Brawlers Maple Leaf Bar - Boukou Groove Rock ’n’ Bowl - Tab Benoit Saenger Theatre - Dave Chappelle & Chris Tucker Shamrock - Pocket Aces Brass Band Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Astral Project Three Muses Maple - Davy Mooney, Russell Welch Sunday, February 19 Bar Mon Cher - Vincent Marini, Fools Gold String Band Bombay Club - Tom McDermott Buffa’s - Gerald French Trio, Jazz Youth Showcase, Some Like It Hot Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. - Mainline Brass Band, The Palmetto Bug Stompers Dragon’s Den - CHURCH* Family Gras - Lee Brice, Jessie James Decker, Jenna Hunts & Rougarou Howlin’ Wolf - Hot 8 Brass Band Jazz Playhouse - Germaine Bazzle Kerry Irish Pub - Irish Session, Patrick Cooper Maison - Chance Bushman & The NOLA Jitterbugs, The Roamin’ Jasmine, Meghan Stewart, Higher Heights Maple Leaf Bar - Joe Krown Trio + Seither’s Seafood Crawfish Boil Rock ’n’ Bowl - Bruce Daigrepont

DashboardConfessional Chris Carraba’s Dashboard Confessional started as an acoustic solo act but became a full band that influenced dozens of young rock 'n’ rollers and kick-started the emo explosion of the early 2000s. Mon., Feb. 13. $27.50 Adv, 6:30 p.m., House of Blues, houseofblues.com/neworleans

40 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

Valentine'sDayMusicFestival R&B legends Keith Sweat (pictured above), Bobby Brown and El Debarge are swinging through to celebrate Valentine’s a few days early. Grab your special someone and be prepared to groove all through the night. Sat., Feb. 11. 119$+ Adv, 8:00 p.m., UNO Lakefront Arena, arena.uno.edu Siberia - Agent Orange Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Tom McDermott tribute to Scott Joplin Three Muses Maple - Debbie Davis & Josh Paxton Monday, February 20 Bombay Club - Josh Paxton Buffa’s Antoine Diel, Arsene Delay Chickie Wah Wah - Alex McMurray Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Alexis & The Samurai, Glen David Andrews Dos Jefes - John Fohl Dragon’s Den - The New Orleans Jazz Manouche, Hangover Mondays w/ DJ III Medina Jazz Playhouse - Original Tuxedo Band Kerry Irish Pub - Mark Appleford Maison - Chicken & Waffles, Aurora Nealand & The Royal Roses, RnR Music Group Maple Leaf Bar - The Porter Trio Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Charmaine Neville Band Tuesday, February 21 Bar Mon Cher - Brian Wingard Bombay Club - Matt Lemmler Chickie Wah Wah - Albanie Falletta, Jon Cleary Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. - DinosAurchestra, Treme Brass Band Dos Jefes - Tom Hook & Wendell Brunious House of Blues- Isaiah Rashad plus Lance Skiiiwalker plus Jay IDK Jazz Playhouse - Ricardo Pascal Trio Kerry Irish Pub - Jason Bishop Little Gem - Charlie Miller Maison - Luneta Jazz Band, Gregory Agid Quartet, Brasszilla Maple Leaf Bar - Rebirth Brass Band Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Stanton Moore Trio Three Muses Maple - Jon Roniger Wednesday, February 22 Bombay Club - Kris Tokarski Chickie Wah Wah - Aurora Nealand & Tom McDermott, Rubin/Wilson Folk-Blues Explosion Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. - Tin Men, Walter Wolfman Washington & The Roadmasters Dos Jefes - The George French Band Dragon’s Den - Dancehall Classics w/ DJ T-Roy’s Bayou International Sound System House of Blues - Jet Lounge in the Parish Kerry Irish Pub - Paintbox w/ Dave James & Tim Robertson

Little Gem - Zakk Gardner Duo Three Keys - Sexy Dex and The Fresh plus Valerie Sassyfras Maison - Eight Dice Cloth, The New Orleans Jazz Vipers, In Business Maple Leaf Bar - Yakamein: Terrence “Groove Guardian” Houston, June Yamagishi, Keiko Komaki & Jerry “JBlakk” Henderson Rock ’n’ Bowl - Jerry Embree Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Uptown Jazz Orchestra Three Muses Maple - Miss Tess Duo UNO Lakefront Arena - Sting Thursday, February 23 Aloft Hotel - Motel Radio Bombay Club - Kris Tokarski w/ Duke Heitger Buffa’s - Gumbo Cabaret, Tom McDermott and Aurora Nealand Chickie Wah Wah - Phil Degruy Civic Theatre - Better Than Ezra Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat House of Blues - Monster Energy Outbreak Pres.

The Cadillac Three: The Black Roses Tour, Dan Andriano (Alkaline Trio) & Matt Pryor (The Get Up Kids) Jazz Playhouse - James Rivers Movement Kerry Irish Pub - Will Dickerson Le Bon Temps Roule - The Soul Rebels Little Gem - Charlie Miller Maison - Miss Kitty Fraulein Frances’s Sleazeball Orchestra, The Good For Nothin’ Band, Dysfunktional Bone Maple Leaf Bar - The Trio feat. Johnny Vidacovich & Special Guests Rock ’n’ Bowl - Geno Delafose & French Rockin Boogie Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - The New Orleans Guitar Masters with Jimmy Robinson, John Rankin & Cranston Clements Three Keys - Tra$h Magnolia w/ Cheeky Blakk and DJ Rara Three Muses Maple - Linnzi Zaorski Friday, February 24 Aloft Hotel - Aaron Lopez Barrantes Bar Mon Cher - Barbarella Blue Blue Nile - Big Sam’s Funky Nation Bombay Club - Larry Scala Buffa’s - Dapper Dandies, Jerry Jumonville, Jimbo Walsh and Associates Chickie Wah Wah - Michael Pearce Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. - Cha Wa w/Colin Lake, Tuba Skinny

Dos Jefes - Sunpie & The LA. Sunspots Dragon’s Den - Loose Marbles, The Tipping Point w/ DJ RQ Away Howlin’ Wolf - Rebirth Brass Band Jazz Playhouse - Joe Krown, Quiana Lynell Kerry Irish Pub - Patrick Cooper, Van Hudson & Friends Maison - Kala Bazaar Swing Society, Shotgun Jazz Band, The Grid Maple Leaf Bar - KOAK - closed for private event Rock ’n’ Bowl - The Topcats Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Dr. Michael White & Original Liberty Jazz Band Three Keys - Slay City w/ Bouffant Bouffant plus Special Guests TBA Three Muses Maple - Monty Banks Tipitina’s - Foundation of Funk w/ Zigaboo Modeliste & George Porter Jr. plus Special Guests Saturday, February 25 Bar Mon Cher - Barbarella Blue Blue Nile - Brass-A-Holics Bombay Club - Leroy Jones Buffa’s - Carolyn Broussard , Joe Krown, Red Hot Jazz Band, The Royal Rounders Chickie Wah Wah - Johnny J & The Hitmen Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. -Little Fredie King Dos Jefes - The Joe Krown Trio Dragon’s Den - Jon Rongier, DJ G House of Blues - Sticky Fingers plus Bootleg Rascal Howlin’ Wolf - Rebirth Brass Band + Sexual Thunder Jazz Playhouse - Shannon Powell Kerry Irish Pub - Mark Hessler Band, Roux The Day! Little Gem - Reid Poole Duo Maison- Chance Bushman & The Ibervillianaires, Smoking Time Jazz Club, Kumasi + The Big Easy Brawlers Maple Leaf Bar - The Quickening Rock ’n’ Bowl - The Arrhythmias Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Herlin Riley Quartet Three Keys - The Wild Magnolia Mardi Indian Funk Band Three Muses Maple - Davy Mooney Tipitina’s - SiriusXM Jam On Presents: Galactic Winter Tour

Jazz Playhouse - Original Tuxedo Band Kerry Irish Pub - Will Dickerson, Roux The Day! Maison - Chicken & Waffles, Aurora Nealand & The Royal Roses, Miss Mojo + The Big Easy Brawlers Maple Leaf Bar - Lundi Gras w/ New Orleans Suspects Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Charmaine Neville Band Tipitina’s - SiriusXM Jam On Presents: Galactic Winter Tour Tuesday, February 28 Bombay Club - Matt Lemmler & David Harris Buffa’s - Davis Rogan, Michael Liuzza, Sherman Bernard and the Ole Man River Band, Vanessa Carr Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a. - Mardi Gras w/ New Orleans Klezmer Allstars, Treme Brass Band Dos Jefes - Tom Hook & Wendell Brunious Jazz Playhouse - Andrew Baham Maison - Mutiny Squad, Native Swing, BrassLightning + RnR Music Group Maple Leaf Bar - Rebirth Brass Band

BetterThanEzra Alt-rock stalwarts Better Than Ezra are among the most beloved rock groups to come out of New Orleans, and they’ll head home to perform at the Civic Theatre this February. Thurs., Feb. 23. $83 Adv, 9:30 p.m., The Civic Theatre, civicnola.com

Sunday, February 26 Bar Mon Cher - Bedowin Buddah, Fools Gold Swing Band Bombay Club - David Boeddinghaus Buffa’s - Ben Fox Trio, Jazz Youth Showcase Chickie Wah Wah - Mardi Gras w/ Greasy Alice Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat Dos Jefes - Michael Liuzza & Co d.b.a. - Funk & Chang w/ Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & John Papa Gros Dragon’s Den - CHURCH* Howlin’ Wolf - Hot 8 Brass Band, Dumpstaphunk Jazz Playhouse - Ricardo Pascal Octet Orchestra Kerry Irish Pub - Paintbox w/ Dave James & Tim Robertson Le Bon Temps Roule - The Soul Rebels Maison - Chance Bushman & The NOLA Jitterbugs, Luneta Jazz Band, Brad Walker, Higher Heights Maple Leaf Bar - The Trio feat Johnny Vidacovich, Joe Krown Trio + Seither’s Seafood Crawfish Boil Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro - Original Dixieland Jazz Band 1st Jazz Record Celebration Three Keys - DJ Lord Handsey and DJ Party Body Three Muses Maple - Debbie Davis & Josh Paxton Monday, February 27 Bombay Club - Josh Paxton Buffa’s - Antoine Diel, Arsene Delay, Keith Burnstein Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat Chickie Wah Wah - Ed Volker’s Do-Rad-Choppers d.b.a. - Alexis & the Samurai, Kirk Joseph’s 2nd Annual Mardi Gras Babies Birthday Bash Dos Jefes - John Fohl Dragon’s Den - DJ RQ Away + DJ Otto Howlin’ Wolf - Big Sam’s Funky Nation & Naughtly Professor

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Sting and Me

W

By David Danzig Photos by Eric Ryan Anderson

ith 40 years of performing, nearly 100 million records sold, 10 Grammys, two Brits, a Golden Globe, an Emmy, three Oscar nominations, a Tony nomination, Billboard Magazine’s Century Award, and being selected as MusiCares 2004 Person of the Year, it’s hard to describe what it’s like to be in the presence of an artist like Sting.

With his upcoming show at the UNO Lakefront Arena on February 22 for the 57th and 9th Tour, I had to reflect back as a (reluctantly) aging Gen Xer contemplating my 30+ years’ relationship with this living legend.

Our First Meeting As the door of my mom’s 1974 Chevy Impala slammed and the hulking gas guzzler sputtered off leaving me on the sidewalk, my world would change forever.

It was November 3, 1983, and there I was outside the Omni—Atlanta’s fabled concert venue—in the cold, with the bright lights of the outside signage radiating off my perfectly quaffed early-80s mullet hairstyle. Very expensive (for a 13-year-old) $15 ticket (yes, tickets were $15 in 1983)? Check. Jean jacket? Check. Hundreds of music buttons affixed to said jacket? Check. Comb sticking out of the back pocket of my jeans? Check. This was my first concert without my parents—a seminal rite of passage for any aspiring American youth, and I was ready. The band: The Police.

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It was the Synchronicity Tour, the exclamation point on the trio’s ascension to becoming the biggest band in the world. The Synchronicity album is chock full of singles including “King of Pain,” “Wrapped around Your Finger,” “Synchronicity II” and, the mega-breakthrough hit, “Every Breath You Take,” and the album would win the Grammy for Album of the Year and catapult The Police into a stratosphere rarely reached by bands. They were about as big as a band could get and, for a young teen who had never been to a live concert without his mommy, it’s hard to explain the natural electrical magic that was pulsing in my veins.

Then the lights went down and the frenetic opening notes of “Synchronicity I” boomed out of the Marshall amps on the stage. There he stood like a Roman god. “How are you feeling?” he asked the

BUY TICKETS AT LIVENATION.COM OR CHARGE BY PHONE AT 800-745-3000

WHERE ARE YOUR SEATS?

For more information on VIP seats contact DottieGuidry@LiveNation.com WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 43

frenzied crowd. I thought I might explode.

The show that night was filmed and later released on VHS—you can still see it today if you type in “Police” and “Omni” on YouTube.

That night changed my life and set off a lifelong love affair with live music. Little did I know, that would be one of the last shows the band would play for almost 25 years.

In the blink of an eye, the biggest band in the world disintegrated and Sting, like the incandescent star that he was, shot into an orbit of his own.

All Jazzed Up Two years later, I had tickets again to see Sting (this time the ticket price had ballooned to $16.75—GASP!) and this time in support of his first solo album, Dream of the Blue Turtles. For this project, Sting had assembled a dream team of jazz musicians, taking an enormous risk by straying from the rock/punk/ska genres that had propelled him into superstar status. The record was a commercial success and a critical masterpiece—possibly the first and only successful crossover of jazz and rock where compositions blasted through the confines of typical rock barriers in phrasing and time signatures. Hits like “Set Them Free,” “Fortress around Your Heart,” and “Love is the Seventh Wave” demonstrated an uncanny ability to riff in just about any genre with arrangements that most rock stars would never have dreamed up. But to Sting, it was as natural as a smooth arpeggio.

Dressed in a sharp white pinstripe jacket, hair tamed but still radiant, Sting assumed center stage, leaving the bass lines to maestro Daryl Jones (formerly of Miles Davis and currently the bassist for the Rolling Stones) while he strummed a Stratocaster.

This time, sprinkled among his new solo work were 10 Police tracks including the closer of the third encore, “Message in a Bottle.” Sting had moved on to a new phase in his career—one that would continue to evolve over the next two decades while his live performances continued to be the hallmark of his experience.

Re-Arrested by the Police Then, in 2007, it finally happened: almost 24 years to the day after the first show I had seen with him, The Police reunited for a tour with a stop in my hometown. There was no way on Earth I was going to miss it—and this time, well into my late 30s and prospering in my career, price was not an object. The

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57th & 9th Album Cover tariff on a third row ticket? $260, just a 1,700 percent price increase since my 1983 show.

And what a show it was! I have seen many aging rock stars out on tour, decades past their primes. Typically, it’s an exercise of the artists getting through the performance without their bodies or their voices being carried off on a stretcher. Often times, the best you can hope for is to have your cherished classic hits to be sung at an octave or two lower. But not Sting. Despite the migration of his hairline, he still embodied rock-god status. First of all, he was in better shape than most 20-year-olds, a result of his dedication to a macrobiotic diet and the practice of yoga. And his voice—still gritty, still pure, still very much in the same range as when he used to belt out tunes while in his 20s, carried the show—every song in its original key. The finale, “Roxanne,” with its helium-range chorus, was as rapturous as I remembered it in 1983.

Back to the Future I saw Sting again, solo, in 2012 at an outdoor amphitheater (tickets were a “bargain” at $141). It was a great show, combining a mix of Police classics with his solo work from over the years. But perhaps I most look forward to the upcoming 57th & 9th Tour, which arrives at the UNO Lakefront Arena. Sting will be joined by a three-piece band including his longtime guitarist, Dominic Miller, plus Josh Freese (drums) and Rufus Miller (guitar).

The tour is in support of his 12th solo studio album, 57th & 9th, a 10-song collection that reawakens the rocker in him, from the rowdy, guitar-dominant “I Can’t Stop Thinking About You” to the fiercely expressive “Petrol Head.” There’s also the melodic “50,000,” which deals with the losses of beloved artists in 2016, including Prince and David Bowie (George Michael, with whom he collaborated on the legendary Band Aid project, had not passed away yet when it was recorded).

It’s clear that, even at 65, Sting has not slowed down and likely will redefine what an “older” rocker can do. Whether you are 13 years old like I was then or now 46, be sure not to miss the one-of-a kind experience of seeing Sting live.

Sting plays the UNO Lakefront Arena Wednesday, February 22, 2017, at 8 p.m.

For more information or to buy tickets, go to sting.com or livenation.com.

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Lakeside2Riverside U P C O M I N G F E S T I VA L S & E V E N T S

ART & THEATRE

TORUK-The First Flight February 1-5 TORUK-The First Flight (Cirque Du Soleil) February 1-5 Times vary Smoothie King Center, 1501 Dave Dixon Dr. cirquedusoleil.com/Toruk/New_Orleans Inspired by James Cameron’s award-winning film, Avatar, Avatar Cirque Du Soleil brings to New Orleans a live, immersive performance, TORUK-The First Flight.. This tale, set thousands of years before humans entered the alien planet, Pandora, tells the story of two boys who set out to find a way to save their sacred Tree of Souls. Tickets for the show start at $30.

For more information, visit the web address above.

Art Show Reception Open House and Book Signing with Simon Hardeveld Wednesday, February 8 5 p.m.–7 p.m.

Crescent City Brewhouse, 527 Decatur St. crescentcitybrewhouse.com Local artist Simon Hardeveld will be at the Crescent City Brewhouse to meet people as he signs copies of Yvonne Perret’s book, Simon of New Orleans,, a descriptive celebration of Hardeveld’s exuberant artwork infamous to New Orleans culture. It is difficult to walk through the city without passing one of Simon's vibrant, whimsical paintings that popularly feature a colorful quotation or hallmark of the New Orleans lifestyle.

After having your copy of the book signed by Simon, take a walk through the restaurant to view artwork by other talented artists such as Luis Colmenares, Becky Fos and Mark Kirk. Admission is

free of charge and open to all members of the public.

Nuit Belge New Orleans February 3

FOOD & DRINK Nuit Belge New Orleans Friday, February 3 7 p.m.–10 p.m.

Generations Hall, 310 Andrew Higgins Dr. nuitbelge.com/new-orleans Who says beer can’t pair as well with dinner as wine can?

Nuit Belge is a 21-and-over Belgian and Belgian-inspired beer tasting that pairs fantastically with some of the best food New Orleans has to offer. Enjoy some classic New Orleans restaurants such as Angeline, Boucherie, La Thai, Patois, Domenica, Peche, and many more as they offer some of their finest gourmet dishes to pair with your beer.

Tickets for the general session are $99.00 with a $7.47 fee and include unlimited food and beer pairings, water and tasting glasses, as well as a program. Fishers at Orange Beach Marina VIP tickets are $147.00 and offers access to the VIP session from 5:45 to 7 p.m. and includes expanded tasting sessions and limited Blackberry Farm Brewery Beers as well as access to the general session. For more information on tickets, sponsors and attire, visit the New Orleans Nuit Belge official website.

The Halal Guys Freret Grand Opening Saturday, February 4 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

5001 Freret St. thehalalguys.com The Halal Guys legend began in 1990 when the three founding partners opened up a hot dog cart on West 53rd Street & 6th Avenue in New York City. Their goal was to be the pioneers of American halal food around the United States. Fast forward 27 years and tons of new franchises launched around the world, a location on Freret Street is about to officially open its doors! Don't miss out on free Halal Guys swag and t-shirts, and try your hardest to be one of the first 100 customers in line so you can receive an exclusive VIP cup that is good for free drink refills for life! Also, be sure you enter their Facebook contest for your chance to win six months of free Halal Guys food. Who doesn't love free stuff?

< Super Bowl LI February 5

Jerk Chicken Festival Saturday, February 11 4 p.m.–10 p.m.

Central City BBQ Compound, 1201 South Rampart St. nolacaribbeanfestival.com A cultural combination of Jamaican music and culinary traditions and New Orleans culture, the Jerk Chicken Festival is a celebration of the great Bob Marley, whose birthday just so happens to fall in the middle of Mardi Gras week. This festival brings with it the best of New Orleans and Jamaican cultures with only the best music and cuisine. Come dance to a medley of Reggae bands and DJs as well as some of New Orleans’s famous brass bands playing covered versions of hit Marley songs. In addition to cultural bands, the festival will include, for the first time ever, a Scotch Bonnet Pepper Eating contest and a Jerk Chicken Competition judged by celebrity guest judges. Entry is $10. For more information and to order tickets, visit the web address above.

SPORTS Super Bowl LI Viewing Party Sunday, February 5 5:30 p.m.

Manning’s, 519 Fulton St. caesars.com/harrahs-new-orleans/restaurants/ mannings-eat-drink-cheer The New England Patriots and the Atlanta Falcons will go head to head in the 51st Super Bowl with a halftime performance featuring none other than Lady Gaga. Although the Super Bowl will once again not be in New Orleans, there are still several great local places to watch. In honor of former Saints football star, Archie Manning, Manning’s on Fulton Street in New Orleans is the perfect football-centered location to catch the game. Apart from great food like the classic Archie Manning burger, Manning’s is a good place to tailgate with over 20 beers on tap. Partake in one of Manning’s specialty cocktails like the Archie Manning or the

NBA All Star Game Weekend Sunday, February 19 6 p.m.

Smoothie King Center; New Orleans LA allstarweekendneworleans2017.com The annual NBA All-Star basketball game will be held in New Orleans this year at the Smoothie King Center. The star players of the NBA Eastern and Western Conferences will battle each other in a multi-game spectacle on February 19. The All-Star weekend kicks off on Friday, February 17, with an All Black Boat Ride aboard the Creole Queen. Wear black attire as you cruise down the Mississippi with over 700 people. General Admission tickets for the boat party are on sale until February 17 for $69.99.

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The All-Star weekend will also include events such as an All-Star Celebrity Game on Friday, February 17 at 7 p.m., with tickets starting at $34 per person.

Following the Celebrity Game on Friday, you can view the BBVA Rising Stars Challenge from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets for the Rising Stars Challenge are $10 and up. On Saturday, February 18, the public can watch the State Farm All-Star Challenge starting at $650 where NBA All-Stars will compete in varying basketball challenges, such as 3-pointers and dunks. Finally, tickets for the actual All-Star game on Sunday, February 19, are currently on sale and start at $850 each. Take advantage of this annual televised event and head down to the Smoothie King Center to witness one of these once-in-a-lifetime events.

Touchdown Margarita. Still, sometimes the best way to view the game is on your own TV and cooking up some classic New Orleans gumbo or jambalaya in the comfort of your own home with family and friends. Either way you choose to catch the game, there will always be a place in New Orleans to tailgate and tune in.

The Super Bowl will air on Sunday, February 5 at 5:30 on FOX.

online as well as on-site at the festival.

Performers for 2017 include Fifth Harmony, Big Sam's Funky Nation, Lee Brice, Jessie James Decker and more.

PHILANTHROPY Gunning For A Cure Saturday, February 11 8 a.m.

Stella Plantation, 4881 Hwy. 39, Braithwaite, LA gunningforacure. org

Gunning for WAL a Cure hits this Battle in target through the Bayou an annual skeet Saturday, shooting competition.

February 11 All proceeds from 2 p.m. this event go directly House of Blues to Dr. Sartor's Prostate New Orleans, Cancer Research Fund at WA 1 LB 1 225 Decatur St. Tulane Cancer Center to y att le in uar walunderground. assist him and his colleagues the Bayou Febr com/events/qualifyingin accomplishing their goal of events-details/wal-majorscuring prostate cancer. The competition's new-orleans mission is said to be "improving the health of men by discovering the means to treat The World Armwrestling League is prostate cancer, while ultimately aiming to coming to New Orleans and bringing with develop a cure." In addition to the shooting it a motley crew of some of the world’s competition, the event's festivities will best armwrestlers. Though some may see consist of live entertainment, delicious food, armwrestling as a foolproof way to settle beverages, live and silent auctions, a raffle childhood disputes, the Battle in the Bayou and much more! is not to be taken lightly. Featuring intense matches, high energy, and an up-close spectating experience, the Battle in the Bayou is the perfect event to see for diePensacon hard sports fans. The WAL is an inclusive February 17-19 organization and encourages people at Times vary all levels to participate. Spectators will be Various locations asked to pay at the door for entry and must pensacon.com be 18 years or older. The tournament will last all day and finals will begin at 7 p.m.

The Pensacola Comic Con will be held Spectator tickets are $20. this year at various locations in Pensacola, Florida. Visit Pensacola’s Saenger Theatre to enter Family Gras 2017 the cosplay February 17-19 contest for Times vary your chance 3301 Veterans to win an Memorial Blvd. exclusive familygras.com Pensacon award, or Come out to head over Metairie for a to the wholesome, familyShort Film fun Mardi Gras that Festival everyone, including to enjoy the little ones, can original films enjoy. Comprised of a by directors series of free outdoor from over concerts right across the eight countries. street from Lakeside Mall, There will also Family Gras is a special be a variety of Fa 9 1 celebrity guests mil weekend of Mardi Gras 7 1 y Gr fun that caters to all members including actors Angus as Februar y of the family, big and small. Family MacInnis, Daniel Newman, Gras features both local and national musician Nita Strauss, special performers, traditional New Orleans food, effects makeup artist Robert Kurtzman, and a local art market, and a kids’ zone. Royal many more. Visit Pensacon’s official website Pass tickets will be available to the public for more information.

MISCELLANEOUS

MARDI GRAS

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 47

with sauce gribiche and even “Birthday Cake.” Who can't get enough of Chef Lopez? We can't!

1111 Gravier St., (504) 518-5800, jdvhotels.com/hotels/louisiana/new-orleans-hotels/thetroubadour You may pop at … Maypop, a new sister to Mid-City restaurant MoPho, recently opened in the Paramount building, hub of the hopping new South Market District. Owned and operated by talented local chef Michael Gulotta, Maypop offers “Southeast Asian-inspired Southern cuisine” in a contemporary yet casual atmosphere. Gulotta and his chef de cuisine, William “Trey” Smith III, are wowing from the get-go with dishes like a whole roasted fairytale pumpkin with crisp apple slices and warm roti, wok-fried egg noodles with jumbo Gulf shrimp in a turmeric curry, hot chicken vindaloo with crispy, sticky rice cakes, and chai donuts with dulce de leche ice cream, popcorn and cranberry. Prepare to be addicted.

611 O'Keefe Ave., (504) 518-6435, maypoprestaurant.com

Petit Lion at The Troubadour

Food News

By Kim Ranjbar

Two in one … The Troubadour, a brand new boutique hotel in the Central Business District, is also home to two new restaurants by New Orleans native chef and restaurateur Phillip Lopez. The creative chef behind Root and Square Root in the Lower Garden District has launched Petit Lion with a menu inspired by modern French bistro fare. Stop in for lunch to try Moule Frites with fresh mussels steamed in vadouvan (an Indian spice blend) and coconut milk, Salad Lyonnaise with bacon lardons and mustard vinaigrette, or the gamechanging Petit Lion Burger made with Wagyu beef, American cheese and secret “special sauce.”

The Troubadour also recently opened Monkey Board, a 17th-floor rooftop bar with a cocktail list created by T. Cole Newton and bites by Lopez, featuring “food truck” cuisine.

Devour dishes like chilaquiles, a “Big Ass” pretzel with beer cheese fondue, a Lobster Dog

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Makin' groceries on Oak! … Specializing in locally sourced products, Simone's Market had a grand opening last month on Oak Street. Located in the space that once housed a Super 10 store, the market is the Maypop Restaurant brainchild of Simone Reggie, the wiz who helped launch Cleaver & Co. and the New Orleans branch of Good Eggs. Shoppers can expect to find plenty of local products, produce, meat and poultry due to Reggie's established connections with farmers and other food producers in the Greater New Orleans Area. The market is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday thru Saturday.

8207 Oak St., (504) 273-7706, simonesmarket.com What we've been waiting for … The long-awaited, smoked meat powerhouse Central City BBQ recently opened, much to the appreciation of barbecue-lovers all over the city. The new eatery, created and launched by chef and restaurateur Aaron Burgau of the popular Uptown spot Patois,

and pitmaster Rob Bechtold, features many of the usual suspects like brisket, burnt ends, pulled pork, pork ribs and chicken.

But they also serve sandwiches like The Pig Cheesy with pulled pork and pimento cheese plus sides including Remoulade Potato Salad, Pithouse Beans and Sweet Corn Spoonbread. Central City BBQ is open Thursday thru Monday, from 11 a.m. till they sell out.

1201 S. Rampart St., (504) 558-4276, centralcitybbq.com Getting broader … Part of the influx of new businesses in the Tulane Avenue corridor, Marjie's Grill recently opened on Broad Street, less than a block from other newcomers to the area like The Big Cheezy, Central City BBQ Fharmacy and Melt. According to Nola. com, two former employees of Herbsaint, Marcus Jacobs and Caitlin Carney, launched Marjie's Grill. The humble and comfortable neighborhood restaurant features barbecue “inspired by the cuisines of Vietnam and Thailand.” Dishes include Campfire Roasted Sweet Potato with cane syrup and crispy pork fat, charred pork steak with green tomato relish, and coal-roasted sheepshead on the half shell.

320 S. Broad St., (504) 603-2234, facebook.com/marjiesgrill

Galliano, Louisiana, this spot is where diners can comfortably enjoy “downhome,” Cajunstyle cuisine in a casual atmosphere. Located in the space that once housed Root, Galliano offers delightful dishes like Crab and Corn Calas, biscuits and gravy with cochon de lait gravy and mirliton chow chow, and paneed pork chops with crab étouffée. Galliano is open daily for lunch and dinner.

200 Julia St., (504) 324-4065, gallianorestaurant.com Revolving doors … The Garden District sandwich shop The Grocery has closed for the second time in less than two years. Initially shuttered in late 2015, the previous owners had to split due to a major rent increase. That's when Geoffrey Meeker of French Truck Coffee swooped in and reopened the corner spot with minor renovations and menu changes.

Unfortunately, The Avenue has closed yet again (Meeker cites disputes with the landlord), and, once again, the Garden District has lost The Grocery. But never fear! Gert Town's Gracious Bakery + Cafe is planning to expand to The Grocery's location early this year, offering their phenomenal pastries, breads and desserts, plus daily lunch and weekend brunch. Owner Meg Forman had been looking for an optimal Uptown space and thinks The Grocery is a perfect fit. “We’ve been looking to expand for a while now but just hadn’t been able to find the right spot. When The Grocery became available, it just felt like the next right move,” Forman says. Goodness gracious!

2854 St. Charles Ave., graciousbakery.com

Monkey Board at the Troubadour

Well worth the journey … What was once a tiny BBQ stand out on LA-23 in Belle Chasse has evolved into a larger food stand with a giant, covered porch that seats 60 to 70 diners.

Appreciated by many as some of the best BBQ the GNO has to offer, LA23 BBQ was created by partners and pitmasters Bobby Monsted III and Aaron Gelfand, who offer Texas-style smoked meat with mouth-watering chicken, pulled pork, ribs and brisket that disappears faster than you can say “LA-23.” All joking aside, this 'cue is so good, it often runs out before 1 p.m., so get it while you can!

9661 LA-23, Belle Chasse, (504) 657-3693, facebook.com/BBQ23 Cajun country … Chef Ricky Cheramie of Restaurant Rebirth has just launched another Warehouse District restaurant dubbed Galliano. Named after Cheramie's hometown of

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 49

Rosedale Restaurant's Lamb Meatballs

20 and Under

$

Keep Your Eye on the (Meat) Ball

T

ender, meaty, earthy and filling … the meatball is as all-American as apple pie and equally as heart-warming.

Like biscuits and gravy, fried chicken and grilled cheese sandwiches, comfort food is re-emerging onto our local food scene, and the mighty meatball is no exception.

This food nostalgia could be a result of dropping temperatures, the shaky political climate or economic uncertainty, but do the underlying reasons really matter? Just plate it up!

Though there are quite a few new incarnations, there are also plenty of classic Italian restaurants in New Orleans that serve an incredible meatball. One that immediately jumps to mind is served at Pascal's Manale. Open for over a century, this old-school eatery on the corner of Dryades and Napoleon is mostly known for its original BBQ shrimp made with oleo and tons of pepper. But it would be a mistake to ignore their classic Creole-Italian cuisine, especially their meatballs. For the past 60 years or so, Pascal's Manale has lovingly mastered the art of handmade meatballs created with ground chuck, Leidenheimer French bread soaked in milk, fresh thyme and basil, and romano cheese.

The meatballs are served with pasta and

50 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

By Kim Ranjbar

smothered in the restaurant's signature red sauce. At a little under $20 a plate, these blissful balls might set you back a pretty penny, but you'll be devouring a little taste of history with every bite.

On the complete opposite end of the spectrum (and on the other side of town) is local chef Susan Spicer's latest triumph, Rosedale Restaurant. Located on the edge of Mid-City and Lakeview, this brand new, casual restaurant once housed the 3rd District police station but has been renovated to include both indoor and outdoor seating while retaining elements— like bars on the windows—that belonged to the original building. In an effort to offer a family-style atmosphere, many of the dishes at Rosedale reflect that down-home feel, like shrimp hush puppies, turtle soup, panéed pork chops and, of course, lamb meatballs.

Approximately the size of a golf ball, these tender, flavorful meatballs are cooked in spicy, Calabrian breadcrumbs, served on a bed of spaghetti tossed in ricotta, and then everything is sprinkled with finely shaved Parmesan. At $15, you could add a side of garlic bread, made with pecorino cheese and Leidenheimer French bread, for only $3 more and still keep your budget intact.

It may not be casual and it's a giant leap from inexpensive, but once in a while, you

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Midway Pizza's "Kingpin" Pizza simply have to bite the bullet, don your fanciest frock, and give one of our many fine-dining establishments a try. If you're careful, you can still keep to your budget while enjoying excellent service and an elegant atmosphere at a dining destination like Emeril's Delmonico. For example, just because it's a starter doesn't mean there isn't a hefty amount of food in their Louisiana wild boar meatballs. Served in pairs (ahem), these tennis ball-sized mammoths are served with a veggie-rich eggplant caponata, toasted almonds, and garnished with a thick shaving of pecorino romano cheese. Pair these balls of meaty magic with a side of baked macaroni and cheese or roasted cauliflower, and your meal is not only complete, it won't stretch your resources.

For something a bit different but no less delightful, head on over to Freret Street for a pizza you will not regret. Owners Steve Watson and Ben Sherman opened

Pascal's Manales' Meatballs

Midway Pizza over five years ago and, with devoted diners from the neighborhood and all over the city, it has become a great success. Their popularity can be attributed to a focus on fresh, local ingredients and signature New Orleans deep-dish pies.

Though several of their pizzas feature handmade meatballs as a topping, a big seller would have to be “The Kingpin.”

Named after the owner's Uptown dive bar, The Kingpin is a deep-dish dream with its tangy red sauce, caramelized onions, green onions, shaved Parmesan and golf ball-sized meatballs that remind you of Mama's famous meatloaf. For a 10-inch pie, The Kingpin will set you back $13.50 and is more than enough to feed two people.

You should probably consider adding one of Midway's fresh, fabulous salads to your order, you know, just to round out your meal.

To totally finish off your meatball experience, you can do no better than to take a little road trip out to New Orleans East and visit Dong Phuong Bakery, located near the far end of Chef Menteur Highway. Among a huge selection of Vietnamese and Chinese breads, pastries and pies, you'll discover a lengthy menu of banh mi. For about $4, you can score a Chinese meatball banh mi (or Xiu Mai) made on the bakery's famous bread and garnished with their own aioli, pickled carrots, daikon, jalapenos, cilantro and crisp cucumbers. At such a great price, you might as well have two or three sandwiches and treat yourself to a dessert of cream buns, steamed banana cakes with coconut sauce or a mung bean pie. After all, you didn't drive out all that way just for a nibble.

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RestaurantGuide African Bennachin is a cozy restaurant offering a taste of West Africa right in the French Quarter. The Sisay Singho, a baked chicken dish, is a standout. 1212 Royal St., 5221230, bennachinrestaurant.com

American Bobby Hebert’s Cajun Cannon Restaurant & Bar has become a Metairie institution since 2014. Their Cajun Cannon Redfish, topped with mushroom cream sauce, is a real treat. 4101 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 324-6841, bobbyheberts.com

Dot’s Diner has a 24-hour menu stocked with diner favorites and bottomless coffee. The Big Dot Platter comes with two eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, hash browns, grits and toast. Multiple locations, dotsdiner. com Gattuso’s Neighborhood Restaurant is a local favorite in the Gretna Historical District. Try their Blackened Salmon Salad with spinach, pecans, bleu cheese and raisins. 435 Huey P Long Ave., Gretna, 368-1114, gattusos.net Gordon Biersch is a pub-style restaurant with their own award-winning beers complimenting gourmet bar food. Their GB Beer Mushroom Chicken even includes a bit of brew. 200 Poydras St., 522-2739, gordonbiersch. com Josephine Estelle (in Ace Hotel) blends Creole, Cajun and Italian cuisine in unique and exciting meals. Their

Origami fuses sushi and Japanese cuisine with Southern flavors to bring customers a truly unique experience. There is a variety of dishes including the Freret Roll, named for their street. 5130 Freret St., 899-6532, sushinola.com

Spudly’s Super Spuds has been serving up delicious fare for 36 years. Their Super Duper baked potato comes with crawfish, shrimp and crabmeat smothered in cheese and chives. 2609 Harvard Ave., Metairie, 455-3250, spudlys.com

Viet Orleans Bistro offers a very wide selection of delicious Vietnamese dishes and wonderful sushi offerings. Just steps from Canal Street, Viet Orleans Bistro is great for lunch or dinner. 300 Baronne St., 333-6917

Ted’s Frostop has an old-school 50s diner atmosphere and menu filled with comfort food classics. Enjoy a Double Cheese Lot-O Burger with their famous Root Beer Float. 3100 Calhoun St., 861-3615, tedsfrostop. com

Bars with Great Food

Willie Mae’s Scotch House is known for having the best chicken in the city. Be prepared for the fried bird that the Food Network declared “America’s Best.”

Multiple locations, williemaesnola.com

Charlie’s Restaurant & Catering in Violet is a hidden gem with over 300 menu items including Overstuffed Potatoes, Creamy Seafood Pasta and other daily specials. 6129 E Saint Bernard Hwy., 682-9057, charliesrestaurantla.com City Diner’s comfort food is great for any time, 24 hours a day. The menu includes the Bottom of the Bowl: a toasted bread bowl filled with crawfish, shrimp and crabmeat. 3116 S I-10 Service Rd. East, 831-1030, citydiner.biz

Q&C Hotel Bar New Orleans’s Happy Hour is among the city’s best. Pair their killer version of the French 75 cocktail with their boudin and you’ve got a fulfilling meal that won’t bust your wallet. 344 Camp St., 587-9700, qandc.com

Bao&Noodle

Asian

Osteria’s Snapper Crudo comes with brown butter, hazelnuts and lemon. 600 Carondelet St., 930-3070, josephineestelle.com

Bao & Noodle is a casual, sit-down restaurant that boasts quality, authentic Chinese cuisine great for sharing. The Cumin-Braised Lamb is a savory treat for those who can handle spice. 2700 Chartres St., 2720004, baoandnoodle.com

Ma Momma’s House of Cornbread, Chicken and Waffles is also the House of Delicious Soul Food. Try the AMAZING Chicken and Waffles or Chicken and Grits, served with eggs “Yo’Way.” 5741 Crowder Blvd., 244-0021, mamommashouse.com

Five Happiness has been serving quality Chinese food for over 30 years with a reputation for their upscale General’s Chicken. Eat in or enjoy at home with delivery to Uptown and Mid-City. 3605 S Carrollton Ave., 4823935, fivehappiness.com

McAlister’s Deli offers a giant menu of sandwiches, salads and spuds. The McAlister’s Club alone boasts 13 layers with applewood smoked bacon, black forest ham and smoked turkey. Various locations, mcalistersdeli. com

Kyoto II is known for delicious sushi and Japanese cuisine at reasonable prices. Located near the Elmwood Palace Theaters, it’s a great spot before or after catching a movie. 5608 Citrus Blvd., Harahan, 818-0228

Orleans Grapevine is a French Quarter wine bar and bistro with over 300 wines by the bottle and 65 wines by the glass. Don’t miss their amazing Bacon Happy Hour for free bacon! 720 Orleans Ave., 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com Phil’s Grill is a family burger joint that prides itself on its Burger Experience. Come hungry for their BuildYour-Own burger options, and their Happy Hour drinks are not to be missed. 1640 Hickory Ave., philsgrill.com

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La Thai works within culinary traditions of Thai cuisine, offering both traditional and contemporary food.

Try Drunken Noodles or Duck Delight in their newly renovated dining room. 4938 Prytania St., 899-8886, lathaiuptown.com Miyako is a hibachi restaurant and sushi bar that offers entertainment paired with its dining experience. The Steak and Shrimp Fried Rice pairs excellently with a “Sexy Alligator” cocktail. 1403 St. Charles Ave., 410-9997, japanesebistro.com

Backspace Bar & Kitchen is a trendy spot for all-day or late-night cocktails, delicious cookies and tasty snacks, served in 1920s decor with their classic roast beef sandwich, The Whitman. 139 Chartres St., 3222245, backspacenola.com Bombay Club has fantastic martinis and nightly live music for a perfect romantic setting. Their Cosmopolitan is among the best, and their cocktails pair well with their Charred Hanger Steak. 830 Conti St., 577-2237, bombayclubneworleans.com Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant was recognized by Esquire Magazine as one of the best bars in America. Esquire also labelled their Reuben Sandwich as being among the best in the nation. 1001 Esplanade Ave., 949-0038, buffasbar.com The Jimani has a comfortable atmosphere that brings together locals and tourists alike. Their menu includes classic options, but the Poppa’s 8 oz. Steak Po’Boy is a favorite. 141 Chartres St., 524-0493, thejimani.com Mimi’s in the Marigny partners classy yet affordable dishes and a self-proclaimed “house party vibe” with cocktails at any hour. Their menu includes a succulent version of Lollipop Lambchops. 2601 Royal St., 8729868, mimismarigny.com Parasol’s is a long-time casual Irish Channel hangout with stiff drinks, sports on TV, po-boys and other Creole eats. Their large Roast Beef Po-Boy is served with gravy and sides to die for. 2533 Constance St., 302-1543 Poppy’s Time Out Sports Bar is the ultimate spot for watching sports with 21 televisions, frozen daiquiris and 20 beers on tap. If you’re brave enough, try the “Rambo’d” Hot Wings. 500 Port of New Orleans Pl., 247-9265, poppystimeoutsportsbar.com

Rick’s Sporting Saloon is an adult sports bar with a surprisingly warm atmosphere. Swing by after the Saints game and check out the intimidatingly named “Gut Buster.” 522 Bourbon St., 552-2510, ricks-saloon. com Rivershack Tavern is known as New Orleans’s most unique bar, with fun bar stools, live music and fantastic food. Their Stuffed Crabs taste great with the Arugula and Watermelon Salad. 3449 River Rd., 834-4938, therivershacktavern.com Rivershack Tavern Gretna is fast becoming Gretna’s best spot for enjoying a cold drink and a delicious meal.

The “Get the Gaff ” is a grilled tuna filet served over their House or Caesar Salad. 714 1st St., Gretna, 325-5530, therivershacktavern.com Shamrock Bar and Grill features the best bar games in the city with activities like pool, bowling and beer pong, as well as live music on Saturday nights. They also serve a great Ribeye Steak. 4133 S Carrollton Ave., 301-0938, shamrockparty.com Three Muses Maple features local jazz combos performing in a snug bar and eatery that is always serving up global small plates and cocktails. 7537 Maple St., 510-2749, threemusesmaple.com Wit’s Inn is an ideal game-day destination with food, drinks and 15 flat screen TVs. Their Mediterranean Pizza comes with kalamata olives, mozzarella, roasted red peppers and spinach. 141 N Carrollton Ave., 486-1600, witsinn.com World of Beer is a local hangout featuring over 500 global beers and tavern food in pub-like digs. Be sure to pair your Pork Schnitzel or Beer Can Chicken with a cold draft beer. 300 Julia St., 299-3599, worldofbeer.com

Café Café Amelie is a rare gem of superb Louisiana fare, nestled in the historic 150-year-old Princess of Monaco Courtyard and Carriage House. NOLA locals frequently flock here for the delicious food and refreshing cocktails. 912 Royal St., 412-8965, cafeamelie.com Caffe! Caffe!, winner of the “Best of the Big Easy” for best café, boasts an extensive menu featuring items like salads, soups, sandwiches and wraps. Their breakfast sandwiches are to die for—the Egg, Cheese & Bacon Croissant is fantastic and pairs well with their Bacon &

Cheese Grits. Two Metairie locations, caffecaffe.com Café Carmo’s unique vegan-friendly menu is inspired by the flavors of the Caribbean, West Africa and South and Central America. Stop by with a date or group of friends for lunch or dinner. Check out the Taradito Sashimi for a unique take on fresh fish. 527 Julia St., 875-4132, cafecarmo.com Café Degas is the oldest Gallic restaurant in town, with authentic French cuisine that’s perfect for impressing that special someone. Their decadent, savory take on cheesecake is more dinner than dessert and comes loaded with crab and andouille. 3127 Esplanade Ave., 945-5635, cafedegas.com Jimmy J’s Café is a funky breakfast and lunch spot with a colorful, lively atmosphere. Their French Toast Monte Cristo is a unique combo of two classic dishes and comes with shaved ham, American cheese and bacon.

115 Chartres St., 309-9360, jimmyjscafe.com Nola Beans is a cozy Lakeview operation with a fantastic breakfast menu. If you come in too late for eggs, check out their Magic Club Sandwich, which stacks ham, turkey and bacon, and pairs well with their onion soup. 762 Harrison Ave., 504-267-0783, nolabeans.com

Pick up a slice of the Spinach, Mushroom and Feta Cheese pizza; your wallet (and your stomach) will thank you. 2706 Royal St., 504-947-8787

Cannoli Pancakes and Sicilian Egg Pies in their homey, comfortable location on Camp Street near Canal. 125 Camp St., 561-8844, redgravycafe.com

Mellow Mushroom is rumored to bake up some of the best pizza in the South. Their Oak Street location features a great location near all Oak Street action, as well as a wonderful balcony. Don’t miss the delicious Cajun Earl Pizza. 8227 Oak St., 345-8229, mellowmushroom.com/ store/oak-street-nola

Reginelli’s Pizzeria has many locations for salads, sandwiches, pastas, a variety of apps and, of course, pizza that can satisfy any craving. Their Gumbo Pizza is a delicious mash-up of andouille sausage, shrimp marinated in Crystal hot sauce and pickled okra.

Multiple locations, reginellis.com

Mid-City Pizza has a variety of creative pies and appetizers, available for delivery. Their new Uptown location near Tulane University will be opening soon. Try their Margherita and, if you’re in a carnivorous mood, ask for pepperoni on half. 4400 Banks St., 483-8609, midcitypizza.com

Venezia is a New Orleans staple for amazing Italian food. They do not disappoint with their expertly-cooked pastas, seafood and heavily-praised classic pizzas.

Their Veal Pontchartrain is particularly delicious. 134 N Carrollton Ave., 488-7991, venezianeworleans.com

Pascal’s Manale has been an Uptown institution for over a century and should be visited by every local or tourist. Don’t miss their world-famous BBQ Shrimp, simmered in-shell in a blend of Creole seasonings. 1838 Napoleon Ave., 895-4877, pascalsmanale.com Red Gravy serves unique and delicious Italian fare while also being known as one of the top brunch spots in the city. Check out their delicacies like the

Mexican Caretta’s Grill serves up Tex-Mex in multiple locations around town, complemented by great service, wonderful margaritas and catchy live music.

Their Combo Fajitas Plate comes sizzling hot, with hearty portions of shrimp, chicken and beef. Multiple locations, carrettasgrillrestaurant.com

Petite Amelie is an extension of Café Amelie with a smaller, faster twist on fresh salads, juices, coffee, light breakfast fare, desserts and sandwiches. Their “Cuisine Rapide” includes a daily marketplace menu with cheeses and pastries. 900 Royal St., 412-8065, cafeamelie.com/petite-amelie Sala’s focus is on great cocktails & wine paired with delicious, shareable small plates. Make yourself at home in a stylish and comfortable atmosphere and enjoy the moment with friends and family! 124 Lake Marina Ave., 513-2670, salanola.com The Ruby Slipper’s diner-style atmosphere has earned it a very popular reputation. The Peacemaker lets you pair two of their huge Signature Benedicts, which include shrimp and chicken options, for a breakfast feast like no other. Multiple locations, 504-525-9355, therubyslippercafe.com

Italian Mardi Gras Zone looks like a corner store from outside, but it houses an enormous selection of ethnic groceries.

They also have room for a wood-fired brick pizza oven.

Caretta'sGrill

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 53

Izzo’s Illegal Burrito makes authentic Mexican burritos that are so good, it might be criminal. Their Magazine Street location is popular with students, while families love their Kidz Night. The company’s slogan is “roll your own” and they keep their promise to “roll you a better burrito.” Multiple locations, izzos.com

Middle Eastern Lebanon’s Café has earned a solid reputation in New Orleans as one of the best Middle Eastern dining destinations in the city ... plus it’s affordable and BYOB! Their Hummus with Lamb is among the most popular options. 1500 S Carrollton Ave., 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com Mona’s Café has been serving traditional Lebanese specialties for 20 years. With a number of locations around town, you don’t have to go far for Mona’s Combination Kebab: a flavorful fusion of beef, chicken and lula. Multiple locations, monascafeanddeli.com Pyramids Café is great for those on a budget who are craving healthy, authentic, fresh Mediterranean cuisine. Located across from Tulane University, their Vegetarian Plate offers big portions of hummus, baba ganouj, tabouli and falafel. 3149 Calhoun St., 861-9602, pyramidscafeneworleans.com

Cornet, named after Louis Armstrong’s kick-starter from the Karnofsky Family, has steaks, seafood and Cajun fare in an iconic Bourbon Street building, with big wrought-iron balconies and picturesque French Quarter views. Their Shrimp Creole is a fantastic take on a classic New Orleans dish. 700 Bourbon St., 523-1485, cornetnola.com Crescent City Brewhouse is the French Quarter’s only microbrewery, but they don’t stop at beer. Their menu is to die for, too. Check out the Broiled Crawfish Acadania, served with corn and crawfish maque choux, fingerling potatoes, roasted fennel and Creole tomato glaze. 527 Decatur St., 522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com EAT, located in the heart of the French Quarter, cooks traditional Southern dishes like Red Bean and Andouille Gumbo with local seafood and seasonal produce. BYOB is encouraged. 900 Dumaine St, 522-7222, eatnola.com Frankie and Johnny’s is a local institution known for great seafood, service and ice cold beer. A great spot for the family or a large group of friends, Frankie and Johnny’s does not disappoint. Their oyster dishes are particularly popular and surprisingly affordable. 321 Arabella St., 243-1234, frankieandjohnnys.net

New Orleans Cuisine

Kingfish offers Louisiana specialties in the French Quarter and has an elegant atmosphere and Cajun favorites. Their seared “Hook and Line” Gulf Fish is a delicious and healthy option, accompanied by roasted squash and cherry tomatoes, and pairs well with a Queens Park Swizzle cocktail. 337 Chartres St., 5985005, kingfishneworleans.com Melba’s is one of the top spots in the city and it’s only fi ve minutes from the French Quarter. Don’t miss their “Free Wings” special after every Saints game. The prices are unbeatable: an order of fries and a huge, delicious Roast Beef Po-Boy will run you under $8. 1525 Elysian Fields Ave., 267-7765, eatatmelbas.com New Orleans Creole Cookery has a variety of traditional Louisiana dishes including Shrimp Creole and Gumbo Three Different Ways. Their Blackened Redfish is delicious. It’s topped with a dill Beurre Blanc sauce and comes with heirloom potatoes and Creole green beans. 508 Toulouse St., 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com Poppa’s Poor Boys has some of the best po-boys in town with generous portions and modest prices. Their $16.95 All-You-Can-Eat Boiled Shrimp every Friday can’t be beat! The Shrimp and Oyster Po-Boy is a delicious pairing of two seafood favorites. 720 Claiborne Dr., 832-8114

Antoine’s Restaurant has been a fixture in New Orleans for 176 years and is still operated by the family that originally founded it. They’ve perfected their seafood options: the Drum Amandine, Shrimp Remoulade and Huitres (Oysters) Bienville make for a perfect trio. 713 Saint Louis St., 581-4422 antoines.com

RF’s offers a relaxed yet elegant dining experience just a block from Bourbon Street. A popular choice is their grown-up take on Chicken and Waffles. It’s only offered for dinner and comes with maple-chipotle syrup and a sunny-side-up egg. They also offer live music and a huge selection of martinis. 301 Dauphine St., 504-586-0972, rfsnola.com

Café 615 Home of Da Wabbit is a Westbank favorite that will remind you of home-cooked comfort food.

Check out their daily specials for something that’s sure to please. Their Soft Shell Crab Platter comes with two massive crabs and two sides. 615 Kepler St., 365-1225, dawabbit.net Columns Hotel has a delightful little bistro tucked away on its porch overlooking St. Charles Avenue. Their Grilled Pork Ribeye is fantastic and comes accompanied by a seasonal chutney. They’re also open for brunch every Sunday. 3811 St. Charles Ave., 899-9308, thecolumns.com/dining

Joey K’s is a classic, casual Uptown joint with generous seafood platters and Southern favorites done “Like Ya Mama’s.” Their fried chicken is a delicious indulgence, its spice complemented by the many beers available at the bar. 3001 Magazine St., 891-0997, joeyksrestaurant. com

Melba's

For the party or after the party,

THE HALAL GUYS is your Mardi Gras Headquarters!

Short Stop Poboys boasts some of the best po-boys out there, even in a city full of darn good po-boys.

Open from early ‘til late, Short Stop is also famous for their amazing Seafood Gumbo. Their Soft Shell Crab Sandwich is enormous, with legs hanging out of the bread; if you get it dressed, it’s a delicious mess! 119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com

Seafood The Blue Crab, located right off Lake Pontchartrain in Lakeview, is revered for their seafood with a view. Bring the whole family, or bring your date, and enjoy one of the best Happy Hours in New Orleans. 7900 Lakeshore Dr., 284-2898, thebluecrabnola.com Crazy Lobster Bar and Grill offers fresh seafood buckets and great views on the banks of the Mississippi.

They call their seafood tower the Crown Jewel of the Sea. It comes with Crab Maison, Shrimp Remoulade, shrimp cocktail, oysters, clams and mussels. That’s a lot of shellfish. 500 Port of New Orleans Pl. #83, 569-3380, thecrazylobster.com Lafitte’s Landing Seafood House is a new Westbank eatery hailing from veteran restauranteurs AJ and Anna Tusa, who own the Creole Cookery among other area spots. The Steamed Seafood Bucket is just one of their extravagant combo options. 1700 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, 504-252-9613, lafitteslandingseafoodhouse. com Nola Boils Café is a restaurant and catering company that specializes in on-site boils of all kinds of seafood including crab, crawfish, lobster, shrimp and more.

For those into surf, their Shrimp and Crab Baskets are overflowing with savory goodness. And for those into turf, the Roast Beef is to die for. 601 Metairie Rd., 782-6070, nolaboils.com Oceana Grill is a seafood lover’s paradise. Their menu offers everything you could want, but the Crab Cakes are a particular delight and you can get them paired with creamy fettuccine noodles. Ask about the Mardi Gras Pasta as well. 739 Conti St., 504-525-6002, oceanagrill.com Poseidon has everything from Creole-style oysters to fresh sushi to karaoke. A great spot to visit with a group of friends or that special date, their unique St. Patrick Roll combines shrimp, mango, spicy tuna and avocado.

2100 St. Charles Ave., 509-6675, poseidonnola.com Royal House Oyster Bar is one of New Orleans’s most exemplary oyster spots, located in the heart of the Quarter. A great spot to take visitors, their Oysters on the Half Shell are among the city’s best. 441 Royal St., 528-2601, royalhouserestaurant.com

We're growing!

New Location Opening FEBRUARY 4

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Catering & Delivery Available Open late and conveniently located near Bourbon St.

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301 ST. CHARLES | 504-302-2918 54 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

501 FRERET STREET | 504-510-4424

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 55

Circus City The Emergence of Circus Culture in New Orleans

W

By Emily Hingle

Photos by Michael Egbert

… they are their own art forms. One of e all know about the circus. the most prolific circus performers and Some people dream of producers around town made sure to clear running away with them to lead a life of up any confusion about them. LadyBEAST performance and entertainment. Some explained, “There’s a differentiation between people want to watch the huge and them: there’s sideshow, there’s burlesque, dangerous animals be tamed by masterful there’s circus. And for something to be trainers. And other people are thrilled considered circus, you have to have by the death-defying high-wire four things: acrobatics, object and trapeze acts. Whatever manipulation, balancing acts your impression of the and clowning. Cabaret circus is, you should is more of a variety note that it doesn’t act from the World just take place Wars to provide under a big top entertainment that travels the to soldiers and nation by train the general and it doesn’t population.” just occur in Las So I know Vegas theaters. you’re thinking It happens right that LadyBEAST here in your city must have run in bars, hotels away to clown and even in vacant college to learn warehouses. Circus so much about is an art that is coming this specialized back as a competitive performance art. But form of entertainment her road to the big top in this saturated city of arts was her escape from L ad y B E A S T sights, sounds, scents and the fine arts. “I was actually a colorful everyday life. When’s the visual artist and did performance last time you went to see the circus? art and installations. I did things like scenes Firstly, we’ve got to define a few terms and scenarios and would have myself or so that you know precisely what’s going models interact with people in white wall on. Circus, burlesque, cabaret, vaudeville galleries in London. I left the fine art world

56 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

because I felt that it was really pretentious.

I toured the U.S. doing group performance art and installations. Then I found New Orleans and started to hone in on street performing. Street performing turned into circus because I did fire tricks and different movement pieces. Then I went to get properly trained on the west coast at the Lookout Arts Quarry, which is a sustainable farm artist residency space that is circus-based. That was amazing, and I met one of my mentors, Vaughn Avery, who is a retired escape artist, and he trained me in seven of Houdini’s top 10 tricks.”

LadyBEAST, along with other people from around the world interested in circus arts, have ventured down to New Orleans where they could not only practice and refine their craft with likeminded people, they could hone their skills in the public’s eye; they could do street performance. LadyBEAST discussed her foray into the New Orleans performance scene: “I was doing a lot of street performing in 2011 and thinking about my life as a circus artist. There weren’t very many circus artists, but there are a lot of variety artists. We did Vaude D’Gras starting in 2013, and it went really well. I worked with a lot of people on the west coast and invited them to come here, and some other artists moved here independently.”

The circus performers of New Orleans can’t just stay in this town. Much like the circuses of old, they travel to where the work is, although they do call this city their hometown.

One incredibly skilled performer named The Lady Satine is currently traveling on the open ocean dazzling cruise ship passengers with her unmatched aerial skills. Her preferred instruments are the Chinese poles and swinging poles, but she’s also versed in acrobatics and other classic circus arts.

Another notable local circus performer is Nick Williams who hails from the North but is currently stunning us New Orleanians with his classically-trained operatic vocal stylings and daredevil tricks. Don’t be surprised when you hear him belt out a few Italian classics while walking and jumping atop shards of broken glass.

LadyBEAST explained how it is to be a part of this fascinating emerging entertainment culture. “I would say that the people who come here who aren’t totally enthralled with the city itself and how it works and operates, they don’t stick around long. We’re in the South. Things

move more slowly; people are late. Everyone I know who I work with here has moved here or is continuing to move here to be a part of the movement of contemporary circus. We all help each other. Circus isn’t an individualized craft. You can just make an act and just slot it into something. We’re contemporary artists, but we operate here in the familial circus way. “ The circus folk here won’t cease to amaze you when you find them. When Moxy Hotel opened in the summer of 2016, they staffed their grand opening party with stilt walkers, burlesque dancers, angel grinders and so much more.

Circus acts can be witnessed as you eat some pasta at Arabella Casa Di Pasta or while having a cheap shot at St. Roch Tavern. The newest regular show that you can see takes place at One Eyed Jacks. The LadyBEAST Cabaret is truly a feast for the eyes. “We all started making different productions around the city in unusual spaces that aren’t actual venues, to now working with One Eyed Jacks who’s offered us legitimacy with circus. One Eyed Jacks came to me almost a year ago and said they wanted to be the first circus venue in the Quarter. They’ve worked with me on making that happen and allowed us to elevate our craft in the city and provide a regular place for people to see a circus show.”

But don’t expect this to be the crest of the circus wave. There’s so much more in store for you.

“Right now I have five or six different productions in the works. My longterm dream is to do a program for free for kids in New Orleans to teach them circus arts and street performance. It’s very valuable for children. It builds their brain in a different way.” See you at the circus!

Circus Shows in NOLA: • • • •

LadyBEAST Cabaret at One Eyed Jacks, oneeyedjacks.net YardBeret (undisclosed location) Cirque Di Pasta at Arabella Casa Di Pasta, arabellanola.com GatorBEAST at St. Roch Tavern, facebook. com/StRochTavern

Where to Learn: • • •

Fly Circus Space, flycircus.space, 651 Richard St. Crescent City Aerial Arts, crescentcity aerialarts.com, 4430 Euphrosine St. New Orleans School of Burlesque, nolaschoolofburlesque.com, in the New Orleans Healing Center at 2372 St. Claude Ave.

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Hit The Ground Running The Pain and Glory of Doing a Marathon

By Kathy Bradshaw

D

oing a marathon was on my bucket list. But it was on the very bottom of the bucket list, and this particular bucket was the one you keep buried in the garage and only bring it out when the floor needs mopping. In other words, it wasn’t a top priority. I had run several halfmarathons already and figured it was enough. I’m just lazy that way.

58 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

Then the little voice inside my head kicked in. We all have those little voices … you know the ones—the voices that tell us our butts really do look big in those jeans.

My little voice was saying that I needed to push myself further and that only moving up to a full marathon would be good enough. So when the opportunity to do a marathon kind of just fell in my lap—in my sore, wobbly-legged lap—I took it. The average cost of a marathon starts at around $90, though they often are priced well over a hundred bucks. So when I won a free entry into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon race for 2016, it was hard to find an excuse not to do it and even harder to pass up free stuff. I signed up for the full marathon.

The day before the run, I went to the “runners’ expo” that they always hold before any big race.

Besides picking up all my race goodies there (timing chip, t-shirt, race number, etc.), the expos are sort of like Walmart meets the sport of running. You can find anything and everything running and sports-related that you could possibly need or want, from sports drinks to sports bras, for sale in one spot.

They have great deals on running shoes, for instance (they say the average person goes

through two pairs of running shoes training for a marathon). And they sell things like headbands that say, “Will run for wine” and those 26.2 car magnets we’ve all seen stuck to the car in front of us at the traffic light. In other words, the expo basically means shopping, which, let’s face it, is way more fun than running. I love running, just not while I’m doing it. (That’s one of those runners’ slogans you find on t-shirts and coffee mugs that they sell at places like runners’ expos). At the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon expo last year, I left with bags full up of anything with “26.2” printed on it.

The morning of my marathon, I was up by 5:30 a.m. to begin the lengthy preparation involved. This always takes more time than anticipated.

It involves pulling and pinning my hair back properly, packing my fanny pack (headphones, pedometer, tissues, emergency snacks, extra hair pins, portable phone charger, phone…), pull knee braces on, apply sunscreen, stretch the muscles, Vaseline the toes, fix and eat the morning oatmeal, feed the cat … Not to mention pick out the perfect running outfit to at least attempt to look cute despite the impending sweat and torment. I slathered myself with Body Glide

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60 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

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(that’s the anti-chafing stuff that looks like deodorant and is supposed to keep any parts from rubbing together while running. I did a half marathon once where I forgot to apply Body Glide to my arms. I still have scars). The race was to begin at 7:30 a.m., so I got to the start just after 7:00 a.m.

If you’ve never done a big run like this or been to one, the start is an event of its own.

Thousands of people line up in order (if you can call this sort of chaos “order”), for miles, based on their speed and anticipated finishing time. Appropriately enough, these time-specified groups are called corrals, and just like cattle to the slaughter, the runners are herded into cage-like barricades to wait for their turn to run free.

Then, group by group, one at a time, each corral of runners steps up to the start, waits for the countdown, and steps off at the sound of the gun. As I waited for my corral to be rounded up, I spent the time trying to activate my fancy GPS stopwatch, taking selfies, downloading a few last-minute songs to add to my running playlist, and trying to calm my nerves. By that point, I just wanted to get it over with.

When I first started running, I felt great.

Plenty of training, ample adrenaline, and just the right amount of pasta, and I was off to a good start.

Runner’s high. The music helped—both the live bands along the route that are always a part of Rock ‘n’ Roll events and my own selection of motivational tunes. The people everywhere helped too. Total strangers and volunteers come out and cheer you on, giving their time and encouragement, and it really makes a huge difference. The homemade signs they hold up make you smile through your pain and are a welcome distraction from your suffering. Some of the best signs I’ve seen include the one with photos of Hilary and Trump that said, “If these guys can

run, so can you!” and “Run faster, that bad Tinder date is right behind you!” As the runners go by, these people hand out everything from Fireball shots and martinis, to king cake and beignets, to salt packets and Vaseline. Even just seeing them there is the little boost you need.

Some interesting things go through your head during a marathon: I want crawfish mac ‘n’

cheese. I need to do laundry. What do you suppose the average household income is of residents in the city of Baton Rouge? Does that guy in front of me with “I might be slow but I’m faster than you” written on the back of his t-shirt know how obnoxious that is? Are we almost there yet?

By mile 5, I was starting to feel less good.

By mile 11, I was miserable. Runner’s low.

Around this time, I fortunately ran by a group of people I knew handing out free beer along the route. Only in New Orleans.

In any case, their moral support briefly took my mind off my agony. When I finally reached the halfway point at mile 13.1, I stopped to walk for a bit. A nice young man came up alongside me and walked with me a ways. We chatted for a few minutes, comparing notes about how much we were both hurting. He told me it would be okay if I wanted to call it a day right then, that I’d already gone far enough. But I said that I’d bought far too much 26.2 stuff at the expo not to go the whole way.

So I kept going. I ran some and walked some. Whenever running got too painful, I’d just slow down to a walk, and I’d walk until I could bear to run some more.

So it didn’t hurt nearly as much. And it took a lot of pressure off to not have to worry about my time or my pace.

This way, I had a lot more fun than earlier, when I was running as fast as I could. I took pictures all along the way. Posted live video on Facebook of the bands playing along the route. I stopped to read all the nice onlookers’ signs and finally got to take advantage of the free stuff they distributed.

That piece of donut at mile 15 was one of the tastiest things I’ve ever eaten.

Last year, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon

New Orleans was my first marathon. And this February, the Rock ‘n’ Roll event will be my fifth marathon and possibly my last.

Five marathons in a year seems like ample torture to me. I will have run up my Mt. Everest five times (or, at least, run/walked it). Do I need to do it again? I’m exhausted.

My knees hate me. Reading grad school homework on the treadmill so I can fit in a long training run in my already packed schedule gives me a headache. It may be time to retire my worn down shoes and all those many cute and colorful running outfits. Then again … I say that now, but something always comes up to keep me running. There’s always some new motivating factor to sign up for yet another race—some fun new location to run in, the promise of cool bling for participating (medals, jackets, crawfish trays), or a running buddy who asks if I’m doing so-andso run, because she is. Besides, in some sick, demented way, the pain of running is addictive. Kind of like a bad relationship, except less fattening.

‘n’ Roll marathons offer for all finishers in any race, as is showing off the kickass finisher jacket they give to those who do the full marathon. Nothing beats the feeling of accomplishment at doing something so challenging, so big, that only .5 percent of the American population ever dares to do it. 26.2 miles is nothing to scoff at.

Not to mention, you burn close to 3,000 calories, so you can eat anything you want for days after a marathon, guilt-free (I have a headband that says, “I run so I can eat!”).

That is, once you get your appetite back.

You won’t be hungry for hours afterward, as your body goes into starvation mode during a race and attempts to eliminate your need for food. This is because your body, quite literally, thinks you’re dying. At that point, you would most certainly agree.

And you thought running was healthy.

"Some interesting things go through your head during a marathon: I want crawfish mac ‘n’ cheese. I need to do laundry. Does that guy in front of me with 'I might be slow but I’m faster than you' written on the back of his t-shirt know how obnoxious that is?

Are we almost there yet?"

Whatever you might have heard about doing a marathon is true. The “wall” at mile 19 or 20 is real. Your toenails turning black and falling off is also real (and makes getting a pedicure quite challenging). Every single part of your body really does hurt, and you won’t be able to walk right for days after.

You’ll get blisters, sores, body parts rubbed raw and achy, swollen joints. And personally, when doing a long race, my nose runs even more than I do. (This is an actual medical condition called exercise-induced rhinitis.

My first marathon, I packed a fanny pack full of tissues and still had to stop four different times at the medical tents to ask for more. I used every single one, refusing to resort to “snot rocketing” on the ground like others do).

Doing a marathon is not fun, it’s actually pretty miserable.

So why do we do it, you might ask? Why subject ourselves to such unnatural and completely unnecessary suffering? Because crossing the finish line is fun. The free beer at the “finish fests” is fun. So are those fancy, highly coveted medals that the Rock

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 61

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Get all your live Irish music needs covered here.

Enjoy an Irish coffee alongside their folk, jazz or blues acts.

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One of the city’s quirkiest bars, come on by for some great live music and tasty eats. Bring in a tacky ashtray for a free drink!

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Three Muses Maple is a spot where local jazz combos perform in a chill bar and eatery serving up global small plates and delicious house cocktails.

Tropical Isle Original 721 Bourbon St. 529-4109

Home of the Hand Grenade, this bar rocks a weekday Happy Hour from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Come to this or any of their five locations for great live music.

Wit's Inn 141 N Carrollton Ave. 486-1600

Wit’s Inn has a sprawling selection of top-shelf liquors and creative cocktails to use them in, plus themed specials nights weekly.

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A local hangout featuring 500+ global beers, lots of craft beer drafts, tavern food in pub digs, and plenty of TVs for the big game.

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WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 63

Top10Filmsof2016

By David Vicari & Fritz Esker

La La Land DAVID VICARI'S 10 PICKS: 2016 wasn't too bad of a year for films. While the quantity of really terrific movies was low, the quality was very high in a small collection of releases.

First, some honorable mentions: 10 Cloverfield Lane, Allied, Doctor Strange, Don't Breathe, Green Room, Midnight Special, The Nice Guys, The Shallows and Zootopia.

means, Lady Susan (Kate Beckinsale), plots to find a husband for herself and her reluctant daughter. Beckinsale has never been better!

5. Hell or High Water – Jeff Bridges and Chris Pine star in David Mackenzie's thinking person's cops and robbers film. Pine is a divorced father out to save the family farm–by robbing banks. The film is packed with moral complexity and characters that make sense. Great supporting performances 10. Eyes of My

by Ben Foster and Gil Mother – A disturbed Birmingham. young woman (Kika 4. De Palma – This is a Magalhaes) living on an fascinating and personal isolated farm feeds into discussion with master her twisted desires in this filmmaker Brian De Palma black and white nightmare. about his movies (Carrie, Probably the most unsettling Dressed to Kill, Scarface, The character study since Henry: Untouchables). De Palma, D e a dp o o l Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986). himself, is a very funny and 9. Deadpool – Ryan Reynolds engaging interviewee. This is a scores as the title character in this smart, must-see for up and coming filmmakers. fresh and hilarious take on the comic book 3. Sing Street – Another terrific, personal genre. You know you're in for a treat when the musical drama from Irish filmmaker John opening credits make you laugh.

Carney (Begin Again, Once). In 1985 Dublin, 8. Silence – Martin Scorsese's adaptation 14-year-old Conor (Ferdia Walsh-Peelo) of Shūsaku Endō's 1966 novel is an decides to form a band and make a intense exploration of religious music video–all to win the heart faith. Two Jesuit priests, in the of cool beauty Raphina (Lucy 17th century, travel from Boynton). This is a film that Portugal to Japan to find just makes you feel good. their missing mentor.

2. Gleason – This Andrew Garfield and documentary about Adam Driver, as the former New Orleans priests, are excellent.

Saints safety Steve Brutal torture scenes.

Gleason and his battle 7. Everybody Wants with ALS is unfiltered and Some!! - Richard Linklater's often hits you in the gut. “spiritual sequel” to Dazed It's heart-wrenching yet and Confused (1993) is a incredibly inspiring. worthy follow-up. It's 1980 and 1. La La Land – Damien S i n g St r e e t a group of college baseball players Chazelle's salute to the have their last hurrah during the movie musical is the thing of weekend before classes begin. Vivid characters cinematic dreams. Can a jazz musician (Ryan and conversations, the film is smart, funny, and Gosling) and an actress (Emma Stone) make cleverly foreshadows the Reagan Era and the their relationship work in Hollywood? I love "Big Business" consumerism of the 1980s. everything about this movie–the performances, 6. Love & Friendship – Whit Stillman's period the songs, the cinematography–which is not a comedy, based on Jane Austen's novella spoof but a sincere musical.

Lady Susan, is breezy fun. Through devious

64 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

FRITZ ESKER'S 10 PICKS: Honorable Mentions: Sully, Hacksaw Ridge, Moonlight, Café Society, The Founder.

Arrival

5. Hell or High Water - A tense catand-mouse film about two bank-robbing brothers pursued by a Texas marshal. It’s an elegantly simple setup but one that director David Mackenzie executes brilliantly with the help of stars Jeff Bridges, Chris Pine and Ben Foster.

10. The Nice Guys - Emma Stone is not the only co-star Ryan Gosling had terrific chemistry with this year. Gosling paired with Russell Crowe in writer/director Shane Black’s action comedy about a 70s detective who teams up with a hired muscle to solve the murder of a porn star. It’s the kind of fun, mid-budget R-rated entertainment aimed strictly at grown-ups that Hollywood seems reluctant to make anymore.

9. Green Room - Jeremy Saulnier’s brutal, unrelenting siege thriller focuses on a punk band who stumbles upon a murder at a Neo-Nazi bar. They have to fight their way out. Like Hell or High Water, it takes a simple premise and knocks it out of the park. Patrick Stewart’s sadistic club owner is the year’s best villain.

8. Arrival - Amy Adams plays a linguist trying to establish communications with alien visitors. It’s tense without being melodramatic and it features a rarity: a plot twist that genuinely catches you off-guard but makes perfect sense in retrospect.

7. Don’t Think Twice - In a way, this film about an improv troupe thrown into upheaval when one of its

The

best family film detective story since Who Framed Roger Rabbit?

members makes it on to a Saturday Night Live clone is a cousin to La La Land. Don’t Think Twice is more of an ensemble comedy, but it also addresses themes of how far a person should go to achieve his/her dreams and the toll it takes on personal relationships.

It’s funny and bittersweet in equal measures.

Nice Gu y s

6. Zootopia - Yes, it’s an excellent family film with a good message about tolerance and how governments control populations through fear.

But, most importantly, it is also loads of fun and tells the

4. Sing Street - Speaking of the optimism of youth, writer/director John Carney’s musical (what a great year for musicals) tells the story of an Irish boy in the mid-80s who forms a band so he can shoot a music video to impress a girl. Like La La Land, it radiates charm and sincerity. And in a year full of movies with endings that were either bittersweet or downright bleak, Sing Street proved that a happy ending could be done with grace and artistry.

passion project is an homage to old-school musicals. Passion radiates from every lovingly shot frame. The film’s heart-on-its-sleeve sincerity is contagious. The songs are great, stars Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling are great, and the film is … well, great.

1. (tie): OJ: Made in America - It may be a cheat to list this 5.5-hour documentary, but it played at a couple of film festivals and is eligible for an Oscar nomination for Best Documentary, so I’m counting it. Ezra Edelman’s sprawling, masterful juggernaut of a film tackles race, celebrity, sports, police brutality, domestic violence, America and personal tragedies in a way that’s illuminating, heartbreaking and bleakly funny.

3. Everybody Wants Some!! - Richard Linklater’s “spiritual sequel” to Dazed and Confused is its equal. It follows a college baseball team on a wild weekend to start the school year. Very few writers are as good as Linklater at making idle conversation fascinating. But there’s more to it than just talk–it’s a movie about passion and the fleeting optimism of youth. And it’s very funny.

1. (tie): La La Land - I’m taking the coward’s way out and calling a tie, but I love both of these films. Writer/director Damien Chazelle’s

OJ: Made in America

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 65

TalesFromTheQuarter

By Debbie Lindsay

Tourists: A Mile in Their Shoes

N

ew Orleans’s economic rhythm depends upon the kindness of strangers. While we certainly enjoy year-round popularity, now is that time of year when we are most assuredly about to fill up our dance cards.

Our town—in fact, Louisiana at large—is a magnet for festivals, sporting events and celebrations of all things imaginable, and party shoes are always nearby. From Twelfth Night (the kick-off of Mardi Gras) throughout spring and finishing with the Greek Festival on Bayou St. John, this joint will be jumping. So since New Orleans is a magnet for tourists and travelers, and since these next four months will be the strongest pull, let’s think about the kindness—not only of strangers and the monies they bring to our ever-struggling economy—but also about how we can bestow some kindness upon them.

Tourism dollars are ill-gotten gains if we do not reciprocate. I get it that locals living in the thick of tourists can sometimes start to feel frayed at the edges, especially during high-volume times like Mardi Gras. However, we are New Orleanians and, as such, it is our job to make our visitors feel welcome. These folks are more than tourist dollars, they are just like us. Think about this for a minute. Remember that time you were vacationing in an unfamiliar city and simply couldn’t make heads nor tails of where you were—the map, Google, nothing could get you situated?

Then that nice person stopped and asked you if you needed directions and all was made clear.

How many times have you rolled your eyes at the tourist who, standing smack dab in the middle of Jackson Square, asked how to get to the French Quarter? Well, put your eyes back in place and use them to see when a visitor needs a little help.

When I was in London, I got my first really serious come-to-Jesus-smell-the-coffee-wow-thisis-what-it-feels-like-to-be-lost moment. There, I was in this hugely famous and hugely large department store, Harrods, and Boyfriend and I decided to spend some time browsing on separate floors. We had a plan on where to regroup and meet back—at the escalators on the third floor. Apparently, I was ahead of time and what might have been no more than 15 minutes turned into a nightmare of imagined worst case scenarios.

I stood there in a foreign country, albeit one with a language I knew, thinking “Where is he?

What if something happened to him? I don’t have any identification on me. No idea where our hotel is or how to navigate the trains or buses to the hotel even if I could remember the name of it. And I have no money on me!…” My mind went crazy with “what ifs” and by the time Boyfriend met me, on time, at the designated spot, in the safe and beautiful Harrods, I was in tears. Needless to say, I never left the hotel again without money, a map, passport and a stiff drink. World traveler, I am not. That experience left me with tourist empathy. Whether the visitor is asking seemingly inane questions, asking for dining recommendations while you are trying to pooper-scoop your dog and juggle an armful of groceries, or mispronouncing “beignets,” you simply have to suck it up and be kind. Why? Because we have all been in their shoes at one time or another. And because it is the right thing to do—they are our guests.

Through the years, I have observed fellow waiters and bartenders profile customers and treat them with disregard because of a perceived poor tip. Wrong, wrong, wrong. You cannot judge a situation in advance. And, even if you could, why not extend some Southern hospitality and hope for the best? Also, this is an opportunity to clue them in to our tipping protocol and steer them to locally owned businesses. Example: “May I suggest Avery’s on Tulane for a great lunch? Even with gratuity, you should find it most affordable. Just call United Cab at 522-9771 [sorry, Uber—had to throw a bone to our taxi guys]. The fare and tip should run ya such-andsuch amount.” Boom. In two sentences, you have promoted a family-owned business and twice mentioned the word “tip.” Reiterate “tip” when pointing out the great free music on Royal Street.

You can let tourists know we are a tip-centric town without any rudeness.

My occasional burn-out with visitors and tourism is something that I find unavoidable. But every time I go on vacation, I come back with an improved attitude and empathy for travelers.

However, most of us can not afford to travel much these days. Yet, you can still traipse about town on your day off and play like a tourist and view our city through another’s eyes. Go out to lunch and observe what makes your dining experience work and what doesn’t. Visit some uniquely New Orleans shops, bars and sights, and then share them with the next visitor you meet. Reward your friends and punish your enemies. If you have a beef with Airbnb, then find a bed & breakfast, hostel or small hotel that you can recommend instead. Unhappy with corporate cookie cutter souvenir shops taking over the Quarter? Then make a note of the small, locally owned businesses that offer locally made or curated cool stuff—like Junk Masters on 2563 Bayou Rd., SEASONED Experienced Cookware on 1016 N. Broad St., or Material Life on 6038 St. Claude Ave. Make sure you direct tourists and visitors to the many music clubs and eateries that are off the beaten track. And, at the same time, send—with pride—folks to any/all of our museums from the big (WWII Museum) to the small (Ronald Lewis’s House of Dance and Feather in the Lower 9th).

Simply put: do your city a solid and “talk tourist.” Or, as my mama would say, “Where are your manners? Make these folks feel welcomed! They are our guests.”

Japanese Restaurant, Sushi & Such Mon – Thur 11:30 am – 10 pm Fri & Sat 11:30 am – 11 pm Sun 5 – 9 pm SushiNOLA.com | @NolaSushi 899-6532| 5130 Freret St.

66 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

Po-BoyViews

By Phil LaMancusa

February Festivous OR Guestwith-Us for the Rest-of-Us

W

hoopee! It’s February! Valentine’s Day! Carnival! Crawfish! The arrival of the spring guests who turn up from now all the way into Jazz Fest (oh boy!).

I’ve pondered points and concluded that guests generally don’t quite get or feel comfortable bunking in with friends whom they see once or twice a year. Believe me, that goes triple for the folks who play “hostess with the mostest” for them. So, in the spirit of blatant honesty, let me describe my situation for the edification of incoming company.

My house. First: this is as clean and orderly as it gets. Second: don’t ask me where anything is, because, in the cleaning and organizing that I’ve spent the last two weeks laboring over, I don’t know where anything is! Quite simply: whatever you’re looking for, it’s around here. Go find it. The soap might be in the freezer; spare light bulbs possibly under the broom; coffee is on the mantle; put your luggage in the tub (kidding). Next: don’t open the hall closet. That’s where we keep the soiled laundry that I haven’t had time to do because I’ve been cleaning/organizing to make a good impression on you. Caution: not all the chairs are safe to sit on. None of the clocks tell the correct time. Some lamps have ceased to illuminate, and the “smart TV” is as dumb as a box of rocks.

The way I clean and organize is to start moving things around. I have an aversion to throwing things away that may be important and/or significant. Two weeks of that and you’re bound to find anything anywhere. It’s not a mess, it’s home, and we welcome you— mi casa/su casa and all that.

We live in a half double shotgun house, which means that we have five big rooms that are stretched out one after another in a straight line. So if you were to fire a shotgun in the front door, you would hit whatever was at the back door; hence the name. The living room is in the front and the kitchen in the back separated by two bedrooms (one where you’ll be staying), a bath and a dining room, with small yards front and back.

Here is our schedule: we work seven days a week, most times until 6:30-7:00 at night.

We come home, we have a little Happy Hour and then dinner, down time and bed by 11:00. Girlfriend is up around 6:00 a.m. to feed the herd (three cats and a dog and various outside strays), coffee, walk the dog, and then to the Tremé Center for swimming and exercise. Then to coffee at Whole Foods (bagel and cookies) and then back to work.

Some nights, we don’t get in until after 8:00 p.m.; it comes with owning a business.

We have lives much bigger than ourselves.

The dining room is also used for painting pictures and a chair to read or listen to

tapes to learn the foreign language du jour. The living room has a piano and other musical instruments, none of which we have mastered. There are unfinished projects throughout the house, countless books and novels, collections of coins, world globes, statues, photos and finger bowls. The kitchen is filled with spices for our signature blends and other handy non-fresh ingredients that we supplement with fresh stuff from the green grocer—a full larder, for ease of cooking. Except for the occasional dairy product, we keep a vegan kitchen. If you want to cook otherwise, you’re welcome to, just know that anything you don’t eat may perish.

We come home loaded down with all the detritus from the day and deposit said stuff on our way to the refrigerator, which means all through the rooms. In the meantime, baths, shaving, cat litter cleaning, recycling, composting, bed making, and visits to our neighbors, our veterinarians, food markets and shopkeepers keep us active and generally invisible.

The first cat gets up at 6:00 a.m. and complains loudly that he’s not been fed for at least eight hours, and, at this point, the dog needs to be let out. There’s time to sit a spell in the morning, and when you use the bathroom for your morning toilet, expect all cats to visit. The youngest one loves to watch humans take baths (there is no shower), and the little dog may want to sleep under your blankets (with you).

We live in a neighborhood, which means we walk, we talk, greet and hail people whom we see in the streets. Introduce yourself, tell them who you are and behave like a guest and not a short-term rental tenant. Smile. We don’t expect you to be bringing home any lovers, possibly some people whom you may meet but not sheet shakers, okay? We rarely have parties at home. Home is our sanctuary— that’s how we picture it. Don’t try to clean up after us, just take care of your own space odyssey and everything will be hunky-dory.

You’re welcome to use the car responsibly, although we don’t have it insured for a second driver. The brakes are good and the tires are fair. It’s that ’94 Lincoln Towncar that’s parked crookedly in the street. It has over 237,000 miles on it and is cranky and idiosyncratic at best. The windows, air conditioning, and sometimes the door handles or trunk switch either stick or don’t work at all. It has a radio tuned to 94.3, an oldies station … On second thought, maybe you should leave the driving to me.

So, you get the picture. You’ll fit in just fine because you won’t expect anything to be normal around here. In fact, seeing as you’re our friend and all, it may remind you of home.

COME ENJOY THE BEST NEW ORLEANS HAPPY HOUR! 4-6:30 Tues-Fri • $1 off draft.

• $3 House Wine.

• Half Off Wells & Calls.

• $5: Buffalo Chicken, Onion Rings, Fried Eggplant, Fried Pickles, Fried Okra and Fried Calamari.

• 60 Raw Oysters - ‘Tis The Season!’

• $1 Chargrilled Oysters.

thebluecrabnola.com | On Lake Ponchartrain in Lakeview

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 67

YaGram

Below are our staff's favorite #NOLA hashtags on Instagram for January. Tag us @WhereYatNola or #WhereYatNola to be featured in an upcoming issue.

NewsAroundTheWeb

Updated Daily at WhereYat.com

NOLAMostRoach-InfestedCityInU.S. @perlisneworleans

@fonaldphotography

@nicole_k_morgan

@panfred

@davidnola

@party_and_costume_nola

@joythebaker

@aaronvogel1

@favorfollowsme

TweetBites

Below are our staff's New Orleans hashtag picks from Twitter for January. Tag us @WhereYatNola or #WhereYatNola to be featured in an upcoming issue.

A 2015 study found that the Big Easy is the most roach-infested metropolitan area in the United States, with over 41 percent of households playing host to the insects. Houston and Miami came in second and third place for the dubious honor of most roachy city.

2017FrenchQuarterFestMusicLineup The 34th annual French Quarter Fest, presented by Chevron, has a stacked lineup. The event will take place from April 6-9, 2017. Featured acts include Aaron Neville, The Pentones and Love Evolution.

CrawfishSeasonOutlookLooksBright New Orleans’s humidity may be an annoyance to some, but it also bodes well for fans of crawfish, the spicy shellfish that come into season between March and July. Kyle LeBlanc, a local crawfish farmer, says the weather is promising for this year’s haul, and prices at local retailers are lower than normal due to the bounty.

@GubbaRum: No question that @cafesoule720 is an absolute MUST if you are going to #NOLA. Corner St. Louis and Royal in the French Quarter! @_CarolinaCT: "Take me back to New Orleans & drop me at my door."

- #CowboyMouth #NOLAlove @Whitzerland: My office does king cakes on MWF. On Friday, we go "rogue" and bring something weird. I just ordered a muffaletta king cake from Kenner. #OnlyInNola @airsnod: Is it weird that all the coffee flavors at work sound like male strippers to me? #DarkMagic #BigEasy #PumpkinSpice #WildMountain @SE7ENJOHNSON: I'm screaming #WhoDat from the sidelines and the sofa. #Saints #NewOrleans @HJudeBoudreaux: flight attendant to gate agent "wait, the captain isn't on board. He went to go and get beignets" #OnlyInNola

68 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

StarWarsEpisodeVIIIFindsItsTitle The highly-anticipated eighth episode of the Star Wars saga officially has a title. Rian Johnson’s film, the follow up to 2015’s blockbuster The Force Awakens, will be called The Last Jedi (probably a reference to Luke Skywalker). Mark Hamill will return to play Skywalker and most of the previous film’s cast will also reprise their roles.

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 69

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Where Ya' Been?

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The Mystic Krewe of Nyx threw a fundraiser “Corsets & Cowboys” at Generations Hall.

Owner Carl Mack and Curator Helen Delguidice celebrated the grand opening of the Mardi Gras Museum.

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Doctor Who and Catwoman were a big hit at this year's Comic Con in New Orleans.

Johnny Angel and Ali enjoyed the grand opening party at The Troubadour Hotel.

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Queen Janis and King Chuck enjoyed the Ball at Buffa’s for The Societé des Champs Elysées Krewe on Twelfth Night.

RNDC’s Brandon Richard and Paul Riley shared a moment at the grand opening party at The Troubadour Hotel.

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Tamara LeBlanc-Bay and Top Taco’s Shane Finkelstein were all smiles at the Pussyfooters’ Blush Ball at Generations Hall.

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Carrie Fisher was remembered at the Princess Leia Tribute Parade.

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Cowboy Mouth’s John Thomas Griffith and Fred Leblanc enjoyed Big Night New Orleans with Kim Randall and Jennifer Hellman.

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70 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

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10. The Traditional Jazz Funeral for Lady Liberty coincided with the Women’s March.

WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 71

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14 11. The Metro’s New Year’s Eve Party lasted late into the night.

12. The Seven Deadly Sins party brought out the city’s top chefs.

13. Great costumes were all the rage at the Link Stryjewski Foundation’s Bal Masque.

14. Brennan’s Slade Rushing joined Poppy Tooker at the SoFab Celebrity Chef Dinner.

15. The Old No. 77 Hotel showed off their new Artist Loft Suites with artist Leroy Miranda, Jr. that are sure to be popular hotel rooms.

72 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

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WhereYat.com | Mardi Gras 2017 | 73

Paying homage to France’s enduring corner bistros while also adding a bit of classic New Orleans’s flair, Petit Lion is one of the city’s newest and most exciting dining establishments. Helmed

by Chef Phillip Lopez, a New Orleans native and executive chef, Petit Lion offers casual bistro fare in a cozy and charming atmosphere.

Chat NIKKI REYES with

<< Phillip Lopez Chef/Owner, Petit Lion/Rebel Restaurant Group

<< Camille Whitworth Media By Design

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lose my mind ... in a good way Fall asleep on the sidewalk!

A pumped shoe from Krewe of Muses.

BATMAN! Christian Bale-style.

Rex. I am KING OF THE BOUDOIR!

<< Ben McCauley Executive Chef, Petit Lion 1.

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get naked, again Get in front of a kid and steal a throw.

Knives! Or cheese. I'm a chef, Nikki.

CHEF PHILLIP LOPEZ! ORPHEUS! With all the lights and whistles.

Where Y’at Chat Questions: 1. Fill in the blank: "Watch out, y'all! It's Carnival time and I'm going to !"

2. What should a Mardi Gras novice NEVER do?

3. What Mardi Gras "throw" would you love to throw, but can't?

4. You're at a Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball and your voice has altered. Whom would you pretend to be?

5. What Mardi Gras float/krewe name best describes your sex life?

<< Kristi Artigues Director of Sales & Marketing, The Troubadour 1.

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Mardi Gras Leave any kid behind ... including adults!

A Zulu Coco.

Princess Di! I LOVE her!

KREWE OF PONCHARTRAIN BEACH.

<< Sonny Borey Founder, Krewe of Orpheus 1.

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<< Grace Birch Communications/Marketing, Old N.O. Rum 1.

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lose my mind, up in here Drink water.

Life-sized Lamborghini's!

CHARO! Couchi-couchi! Rrrrrrrrrrrrr!

KREWE OF BOO!

show up with the musician, CARNIVAL TIME JOHNSON Use the "restroom"... outside!

A Krewe of Muses shoe! I'd rather catch it.

Dita Von Teese.

THE SMOKY MARY

show a parade that is THEATRICAL Be rude to the person adjacent to you.

MONEY! Grand Duke Alexis Alexandrovich!

LITTLE RASCALS

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drop it like's it hot Show your boobies!

A "FRENCH KISS"!! Vive le kiss...

Lucille Ball The new ... KREWE OF 24/7.

<< Jim O'Brien Cost Analyst, Catholic Charities

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74 | February 2017 | Where Y'at Magazine

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leave my gold shoes behind Stray from your pack!

A jar of BOSCOLI OLIVE SALAD and other yummies!

Julius Caesar.

I PLEAD THE BEAD!

<< Tracee Dundas Founder/Producer, N.O. Fashion Week

<< Bobby Arena Sales Consultant, Bath Fitter hell Run outta alcohol!

Silver dollars!

Brad Pitt.

LITTLE RASCALS.

^^ Kara Occhipinti Director of Marketing/ Advertising, Boscoli Foods

keep my clothes on Take your eye off the beads!

Baseballs.

Tom Brady.

"THE GET SOME KREWE."