The Crescent City Blues

The Mayor went to New Orleans for more meetings with local businessmen to discuss the progress made in 2010. It seems that progress has stalled across the board. With a new mayor on the ground, the political climate has brightened some, but the continuous problem of economic malaise persists. Driving around the City, one sees little work being accomplished:there is no vibrancy to life on the streets. Cabbies moan of a slow down, a sure sign of the lingering effects of Hurricane Katrina.
Progress in the school system continues, but the pace is unsteady and stake holders sound confused and grasping. The streets are being repaired in many wards, clear evidence of infrastructure upgrades and dynamic planning. Traffic was light generally speaking, but there were no sporting events scheduled to liven up the venues. Restaurants had few empty tables at peak times, but reservations or lack there of were not a hindrance to timely dining. Emeril's Nola eatery was bustling on all floors, but the wait staff clearly were not under stress. Preparations for Mardi Gras are under way as evidenced by the installation of remarkable displays of costumed mannequins in various locations.
A visit to the World War II Museum was again worth the effort. The American Sector, John Besh's restaurant was humming along on Saturday as visitors waited in line to sample the Besh version of oysters fried, burgers sliding, and pulled pork sandwiches. The full bar, complete with big screen TV's, add a casual flavor to the happy hour:3pm-6pm and free parking after 2pm.
The expansion plans at the Museum include the construction of The Boeing Wing which will include a full size B-29 bomber of WWII. This 100' X 90' behemoth will anchor a collection of vintage aircraft that will highlight what will be the largest inner city museum in the country. In the hangar-like building will be other examples of familiar aircraft, in suspended flight for all to view from every angle. The display designers have achieved much with their "close is better" philosophy when it comes to war machinery. The main display gallery in the D-Day section is the prime example.
One menu item at the American Sector is worth noting: the hotdog. This could be 'The" hotdog of them all. It is a foot long, but it weighs in at over 16 oz. It looks like a football wrapped in a bun. I observed several attempts at consuming this marvel, and no one could accomplish this feat. Most were taken home in boxes for later finishing. The Minister of latin American Affairs shared his with a local, and I applauded his discretion.
It was a very productive trip and more comments will be posted soon.