I got to NOLA on Thursday and was picked up by my supervisor Lauren and my roommate Nancy. Upon my arrival we headed straight towards the Ninth Ward (we don't mess around). For those who are unaware...New Orleans is broken up into wards and the Ninth was where Katrina did the most damage. Since then orgs such as Habitat For Humanity and the Saint Bernard's Project have been instrumental in it's rebuilding effort. The company I work for does their service through St. Bernard's. (NOTE: You can read about their awesomeness here: http://www.stbernardproject.org/v158/)
We spent about an hour driving around. There has been a lot of awesome progress, but there is still more to be made! Here is a picture (that I copped from the New York Times) of Musicians Village. Habitat made these homes primarily for musicians (hence the name...duh).
Notice the stilts?
We also saw the Make It Right houses...Brad Pitt and collaborators put forth a lotttttt of money in an effort to build 150 affordable,sustainable AND eco-friendly homes in the Ninth Ward. So far they've built 20. A work in progress! (I stole this picture from the Boston Globe...womp)
It is a personal goal of mine to catch the Jolie-Pitts on one of their NOLA truavants this summer. Them, or Sandra Bullock's baby. I'd be happy with either.
Both nights have been spent in the French Quarter. The music scene here is fantastic. Last night we saw Lauren's friend Hannah play a show. She's in an all-girl (plus one dude) ska band called The Skanks. Do ya love etttt!?!?
Additional things I've found endearing about this city:
Roller Derbies. Finally a city that embraces my way of thinking. Those who know me well are aware of the fact that I have been on a year-long kick to bring back rollerblades. I will never understand why they went out of style. It's refreshing to be in a city where bladeing is still an accepted practice--And for that New Orleans, I thank you.
Also, you can drink on the street.
Kids get here Tuesday :) Can't wait!!
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