Mardi Gras 2006

Well, nothing can stop the Mardi Gras streak - not even Katrina. For my 5th Mardi Gras I decided to head down there alone. I received feedback from Peyton and Desha that the reason they never were around was because I always brought an army of friends and they hate being tour guides. Always one to help the situation I trekked down with my self. Along with us came Desha's mom and her sister.

Click to view gallery

Desha has been volunteering at a place called God's Vineyard where they take in youths to help grow vegetables and spices. They make money for the project by growing peppers and making an awesome hot sauce out of it. They need a website so I wanted to get involved. Very cool folks, and very bright kids. Some of them are the first to ever graduate/ get into college.

Because of her efforts we got to stay at the Hilton hotel (where the kids from the program were staying).

We also got to see Kermit Ruffins. This guy rocked. I didnt know who he was but we went there anyway. The bar was called "The Howlin Wolf" and everyone was there to see Kermit. So h plays." "wow, what a neat local celebrity"e comes on and it really is some of the best jazz ive ever heard. People got on stage dancing with him and everyone was singing along with the words. When it was over, Peyton says "That was good but i'm kind of dissapointed." "Why? It was a great show!" I ask. "Well, he's usually cooking Red Beans and Rice for everyone to eat while he "uhm, not so local, usually sells out in Manhatten for over $40/ticket"
I just thought that was the coolest thing ever.

The 9th ward is a mess. The gallery says it all.

All in all, i think that the trip was awesome. Sorry I didnt get any boob shots guys, I was less interested in that, and more interested in the culture this time around.

Enjoy the photos and videos. If you want any specific photos let me know and I'll send em your way.



Cheers!
Benito