Oh That Voodoo That You Do

October 12, 2017 by Charlie London

Many thanks to Nancy Shepard for meeting with representatives of Voodoo Fest

 

City Park Festival Grounds and Track will be closed 10/13 through 11/3

Please use the contact information below if you have any issues with the Voodoo Festival

Click here for a larger view

***

SOUND COMPLAINTS

[email protected]

512-806-7924

***

PUBLIC WORKS – TOWING

504-658-8100 (24 hrs)

***

Information below courtesy neworleansonline.com

Like most festivals, here in New Orleans and elsewhere, the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience started out small and, over time, exploded into a mega-event spanning several days and drawing big names and even bigger numbers.

Voodoo has booked over 2,000 acts and has drawn more than a million people, along with some of the top acts on the contemporary popular music scene. It is now second only to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in annual attendance figures.

The Event

This year’s Voodoo will take place on Halloween weekend, from Friday, October 27th through Sunday, October 29th.

The festival, which invites attendees to “Worship the Music,” is held annually at the Festival Grounds in City Park. Four unique performance areas, each of which is enhanced by the use of interactive art, will feature top-tier and innovative artists from a variety of musical genres, all of which reflect the multitude of cultures that define the New Orleans demographic.

Music

This year’s lineup is as stellar as it has been in previous years. Voodoo 2017 headliners include Kendrick Lamar, Foo Fighters, The Killers, and dozens more.

Other acts among those announced for 2017 include:

  • LCD Soundsystem
  • DJ Snake
  • Galantis
  • Dillon Francis
  • The Head and the Heart
  • Brand New
  • Miguel
  • Post Malone
  • Cold War Kids
  • Louis the Child

And many more! For a full lineup of musical acts by day, visit the Voodoo Official Musical Lineup.

Voodoo Fest also features a wide variety of food specialties, many of which can only be found in New Orleans and south Louisiana. Artwork and local crafts will also be on hand for display and sale.

The organizers of Voodoo have negotiated special discounted rates with some local hotels for visiting festivalgoers. To view a list of those hotels, along with rates and reservation information, click here.

Due to increased traffic and parking demands, it is highly recommended to take advantage of public transportation to get to and from the fest site. The North Carrollton Branch of the Canal Streetcar Line will take you from downtown right up to the main gates of City Park. You can catch the Canal Streetcar along any one of many stops downtown and ask the conductor for a transfer to the North Carrollton Line. Fares are $1.25 each way, transfers included.

City buses may also be running along Esplanade Avenue that will bring you close to City Park. Check out the streetcar and bus schedules on the Regional Transportation Authority website.

For more details and the most up-to-date information about Voodoo 2017, check out their website at www.voodoofestival.com.

For the most up-to-date information on Voodoo Fest, follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Filed Under: More Great Posts! Tagged With: complaint about noise, faubourg st john, fun, music, New Orleans, noise complaint, voodoo fest, voodoo in city park, voodoo noise, voodoo on the bayou, voodoo parking

Thursdays at Twilight

June 2, 2016 by Charlie London

THURSDAYS AT TWILIGHT

Thursdays at TwilightThursdays at Twilight Garden Concert Series begins at 6 p.m. at the Pavilion of the Two Sisters in the Botanical Gardens at City Park located on Victory Drive in New Orleans.

http://neworleanscitypark.com/calendar

Thursdays at Twilight Concert Series

Schedule of Concerts at the New Orleans Botanical Garden in New Orleans City Park

Thursdays at TwilightWhat: Join music lovers in City Park to hear some of New Orleans’ favorite performers during the “Thursdays at Twilight” concert series. Bring your friends to enjoy this very popular series with an array of musicians and mint juleps indoors at the Pavilion of the Two Sisters. This series is sponsored by the Louis and Virginia Clemente Foundation with support from WWNO 89.9 FM.

Admission is $10 per person. Mint juleps, wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and food are available for purchase. No outside food, drink, or pets are allowed.

Advance tickets are available online at NewOrleansCityPark.com. Advance tickets may also be purchased over the phone at 504-483-9488 or at the Botanical Garden Gift Shop. Thursdays at Twilight Series Season Passes are also available for purchase.

When: Thursday Evenings

5 pm – Gates Open, 6 pm – Performance Begins

Thursdays at Twilight

Where: Pavilion of the Two Sisters, New Orleans Botanical Garden, City Park

Contact: New Orleans Botanical Garden: phone: 504-483-9488 or email: [email protected]

June through August 2016 schedule:

June 2 – John Boutté

Voted Best Male Vocalist of the year at both the Best of the Beat and the Big Easy Awards. His song “Treme” is the theme song of the popular HBO series. Those who were lucky to attend his sold out concert last year were part of a magical night. Don’t miss this year’s show. For more information about the band, visit johnboutte.com.

June 9 – Bon Operatit

Consists of New Orleans opera singers Lauren Mouney Gisclair, Jesse Nolan, and Mary Penick Akin. From La Boheme to Phantom of the Opera, they perform a perfect pairing of opera and musical theatre hits that are sure to invigorate the senses. For more information about the band, visit bonoperatit.com.

June 16 – New Orleans Mystics

Buy your tickets early so you will not miss this show featuring the music of Motown. Songs from the Temptations, O’Jays, Marvin Gaye and Otis Redding will all be part of this soulful tribute to some of the greatest music from the 1970’s.

June 23 – Symphony Chorus of New Orleans

The Symphony Chorus will perform Shubert and Vivaldi in the first half of the concert, and then music about New Orleans and Louisiana in the second half. Should be a great mix of music. For more information about the band, visit symphonychorus.org.

June 30 – Rocky’s Hot Fox Trot Orchestra

Celebrate the traditions of our New Orleans swing era with an energetic, upbeat patriotic concert. The program will include hits from the era of the WWII “greatest generation”, popular modern tunes, and patriotic tributes. This swing ensemble features a full horn section with vocals. For more information about the band, visit rockyshfto.blogspot.com.

July 7 – Chucky C and Clearly Blue

Chucky C’s (Charles Elam, III) charisma has earned him the title, “The King of Feel Good.” This versatile entertainer blends all of his musical influences from jazz to pop, Dixieland to blues and can change gears to satisfy diverse audiences making him a real crowd pleaser.

July 14 – Boogiemen Swing Band

Will be performing the music of Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble’, Harry Connick Jr. and more…..” Don’t miss this special night of music!! For more information about the band, visit boogiemen-nola.com.

July 21 – Ronnie Kole

Jazz pianist Ronnie Kole’s smooth sound and elegant demeanor have earned him respect from musicians across the globe. Kole sharpened his skills in Al Hirt’s club and Kole’s Corner on Bourbon Street. He was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame in 2012 and has recorded 32 CD/LP’s. This New Orleans-based pianist keeps busy performing concerts across the United States, Europe and Asia. For more information about the band, visit ronniekole.com.

July 28 – Ladies of Soul

You know Naydja CoJoe, Rechelle Cook, and Sharon Martin as, “The Ladies of Soul,” having performed at the Garden with The Mystics. They will not only sing a bit of Motown, but also Jazz, R & B, and familiar New Orleans tunes.

August 4 – Bruce Daigrepont

Music came to Bruce at an early age, and in the most traditional manner–handed down from father to son. When he was growing up, no family gathering was complete without a little playing and singing. His father picked the guitar, “Carter Family-style,” while his Uncle Alton lent a remarkable voice to the traditional Cajun songs and old-time country ballads. Bruce Daigrepont almost single-handedly has popularized Cajun music and Cajun dancing in cosmopolitan New Orleans. For more information about the band, visit brucedaigrepont.com

August 11 – Julio and Cesar

Originally from Guatemala, Julio and Cesar Herrera have been in New Orleans for over 30 years. They describe their music as constantly evolving, attributing this, in part, to their exposure from an early age to many cultures. For more information about the band, visit julioandcesar.com.

August 18 – Pfister Sisters

Holley Bendtsen, Yvette Voelker, Debbie Davis and Amasa Miller comprise one of the few groups that represent the New Orleans swing era, with their recreation of the Boswell Sisters arrangements, and the only act featuring vocal jazz harmony. They bring joy to your soul, harmony to your ears, and the best and biggest boogie-woogie to your feet. For more information about the band, visit pfistersisters.com.

August 25 – Mark Brooks and Friends

Mark Brooks is one of New Orleans’ most talented, versatile, and sought after bassist. Mark has played and toured with an array of artists including Dr. John, The Neville Brothers, Henry Butler, Charles and Aaron Neville’s Ensembles, Lou Rawls, Fats Domino, Ellis Hall Preservation Hall Jazz Band and Harry Connick, Sr. Mark is known for his diversity with the different styles of music ranging from Rhythm & Blues, Contemporary Jazz, Traditional Jazz, Blues, and Gospel. For more information about the band, visit markabrooks.net.

Filed Under: Featured, HISTORY, Living Well Tagged With: bayou st john, best neigborhood in new orleans, city park, family, faubourg st john, fun, music, New Orleans, new orleans best neighborhood, thursday, thursdays at twilight

2016 Bastille Day Celebration

May 19, 2016 by Charlie London

10th Annual Faubourg St. John Bastille Day Block Party!

Date Saturday July 9, 2016

Time 4:45PM – 9:35PM

Location 3100 block Ponce de Leon, between North Lopez and Esplanade

Win A prize for the best costume as Marie Antoinette or Napoleon!

It’s a Block Party! Celebrate Bastille Day in the original neighborhood of the French Creole aristocracy. The 2016 Faubourg St. John Bastille Day celebration will be on Saturday, July 9, 2016, between 4:45 PM and 9:35 PM with food, music, children’s activities, and an art market.

eatcake-bastille1ukelelejakeFor your entertainment, Harmonouche with Raphael Bas and Lil People Brass Band will perform and Cynthia Scott will sing her powerful rendition of La Marseillaise. Dance to fun tunes by Ukulele Jake. Dress up as Napoleon or Marie Antoinette for the Costume Contest and receive a prize!

Meet, Eat, Drink, and Dance in the street with us!

Participants include: 1000 Figs, Bayou Breakfast, Cafe Degas, Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association, French American Chamber of Commerce Gulf Coast Chapter, Half Shell Oyster Bar and Grill, Liuzza’s by the Track, Lola’s, Nonna Mia, Pal’s Lounge, Santa Fe, Swirl.

Bastille Day

Bastille Day Celebration

 

4:45-6:45 Harmonouche with Raphael Bas

6:45-6:55 Cynthia Scott, La Marseillaise

6:55-7:20 Ukelele Jake

7:20– 7:35 Costume Contest

7:35-9:35 Lil People Brass Band

Face painting and Balloons: Stacey Clements. Face painting, Tara Jill.

Lots of friendly faces were at the Cafe Degas tent at the Bastille Day Celebration in Faubourg St. John.
Lots of friendly will be in the Cafe Degas tent at the Bastille Day Celebration in Faubourg St. John.

Many people will enjoy the Faubourg St. John Bastille Day block party in the 3100 block of Ponce de Leon in New Orleans on Saturday, July 9, 2016. The celebration will include food, music, children’s activities, and an art market.

On July 14, 1789 more than 8,000 men and women stormed a prison fortress in Paris known as the Bastille, demanding the release of the political prisoners being held there, plus the prison’s store of weapons. The storming of the Bastille was the spark that set off the French Revolution, an event that had a significant impact not only on France itself but its colonies and former colonies as well, including New Orleans.

Arising from the tumult and chaos of the French Revolution was a young, ambitious general named Napoleon Bonaparte. In order to help finance his wars in Europe Napoleon sold off his country’s largest North American colony in what became known as the Louisiana Purchase. With that 1803 transaction, New Orleans and the rest of Louisiana – plus a vast swath of land between the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains – became part of the United States.

bastille-day-faubourg-st-johnBastille Day is commemorated in New Orleans on the closest Saturday preceding the 14th of July. The occasion is celebrated with a block party in the 3100 block of Ponce de Leon Street in the city’s historic Faubourg St. John neighborhood, adjacent to Esplanade Avenue. This quiet, residential section of the city was once the home of many families of French Creole aristocracy. Most of the historic houses they lived in are still visible and in use today.

The Faubourg St. John Bastille Day party on Saturday, July 9, 2016 features live music, food and drinks to toast the memorable occasion. This is a family-oriented event with fun things for the kids to do, including arts and crafts and games. All of the neighborhood’s stores and businesses actively participate.

article courtesy neworleansonline.com

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A great opportunity for artists

Lots of friendly folks came out to enjoy the Bastille Day Celebration in Faubourg St. John.
Lots of friendly folks come out to enjoy the Bastille Day Celebration in Faubourg St. John.

Opportunity for Artists

opportunity for artists
ARTISTS! CRAFTSPERSONS!

The Faubourg St. John Merchants Association is planning its annual Bastille Day Block Party.

One of the favorite traditions is the Art Market.

Artists and crafts persons that want to sell their wares should contact Mona McMahon
at 619-867-5176 for a space.bastille2012-group4web

What: Annual Bastille Day Block Party with music, food, local arts and crafts, children’s activities.

Date: Saturday July 9, 2016

Time: 4:45PM – 9:35PM

Location: 3100 block Ponce de Leon, between North Lopez and Esplanade

Artists and Crafts persons contact: [email protected]

Please include the information below in your correspondence with Mona:

bastilleVendor Application
Return to [email protected]
Contact/text Mona at  [email protected] or at 619 867 5176

Artist Vendor Fee: $35 Checks payable to FSJMA (Faubourg St. John MERCHANTS Association)

Artist Name:

Business Name:

Mailing Address:

Contact Person:

Contact Phone Number:

Contact Email Address:

City Vendor Permit Number: (please attach copy)

Type of Merchandise/Work to be sold:

***

Bastille2016

Filed Under: Featured, HISTORY, Living Well Tagged With: artists, bastille, bastille day, bastille day celebration, bastille day festival, bayou st john, best neighborhood in New Orleans, block party, faubourg st john, music, new orleans best neighborhood

YOU TOO CAN BOOGALOO AS A VOLUNTEER

May 17, 2016 by Charlie London

volunteersboogaloo

Help the Bayou Boogaloo to remain FREE

You too can Boogaloo as a volunteer

Bayou Boogaloo Volunteers! – http://www.thebayouboogaloo.com/info-directions/volunteer/

Are you interested in volunteering with The Bayou Boogaloo on the banks of beautiful Bayou St. John on May 20, 21, and 22?

You can visit the sign up page by visiting https://www.volunteerspot.com/login/entry/987188364026

If you are unable to volunteer this year but would like to join The Bayou Boogaloo’s
volunteer mailing list for future events, please, sign up on The Bayou Boogaloo’s website.

For any questions or concerns, please email
[email protected]

Interested in Volunteering with The Bayou Boogaloo?

See all of the 2016 volunteer opportunities and sign up for a spot here.

On top of becoming part of the Boogaloo Family and being one of the key players that help keep the festival free, Volunteers also receive a free t-shirt that is not available for sale to the public.

***

2016boogaloobanner4fsjna

Bodacious Boogaloo
by Charlie London

Since the beginning, the Bayou Boogaloo, held on the banks of Bayou St. John in New Orleans during May, has had a mission to give back to the community. The first Bayou Boogaloo in 2006 was a healing effort for the community. Many folks were still rebuilding their lives and their houses after “the storm”. The Bayou Boogaloo was a welcome respite from the daily grind. It provided much needed fun for both adults and children.

One of the often forgotten aspects of the Bayou Boogaloo is its emphasis on zero impact on the environment. I’ve personally witnessed the meticulous cleanup after the event. One would never know the music festival ever took place because the area is left as clean or cleaner than it was before the event.

The Bayou Boogaloo has promoted solar energy, recycling and encouraged folks to consider the environment. The Bayou Boogaloo has led by example. Several huge oak trees have been planted along the banks of Bayou St. John leaving a lasting positive impact on the environment and the community.

The Bayou Boogaloo gives back in other ways too! The event helps neighborhood organizations raise funds for their operations, has helped build playgrounds, has supported community sports initiatives, helped plant native habitat-building and erosion-preventing marsh grasses, and replaced trees lost during hurricanes.

The City even recognized the Bayou Boogaloo’s founder, Jared Zeller, with a proclamation for promoting an economically and environmentally sustainable event.

Join the Bayou Boogaloo this Friday, Saturday and Sunday May 20, 21, and 22. The Bayou Boogaloo is more than just a music festival, it’s a community building coalition!

More info at: http://thebayouboogaloo.com/

***
THE BEAT GOES ON AT THE BAYOU BOOGALOO
By Geraldine Wyckoff
Contributing Writer

It’s been less than three weeks since the last notes rang out at the Fair Grounds to close the 2016 edition of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Not far away, bands will strike up again at the 11th Annual Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo. The free event is presented from Friday, May 20 to Sunday, May 22, 2016 along the banks of Bayou St. John between Dumaine Street and N. Jefferson Davis Parkway. It features three main music stages at Dumaine Street, Orleans Avenue and Lafitte Street plus a Kids Stage that has both music and other activities to please the youngsters.

There are some excellent local and national headliners at the festival that didn’t perform at this year’s Jazz Fest including Nolatet (Sunday, 6 p.m.), The Lowrider Band (Saturday, 7:45 p.m.) and the Wailers (Friday, 7:45 p.m.).

Let’s start with Nolatet, a band of all-star jazz masters – drummer Johnny Vidacovich, bassist James Singleton, vibraphonist/percussionist Mike Dillon and pianist Brian Haas. This performance marks the first time many local people will have the opportunity to experience this group as they’ve only performed in New Orleans several times. Formed spontaneously in 2014 and quickly releasing its exciting debut album, Dogs (The Royal Potato Family) just this year, Nolatet has been out on tour promoting the CD and, according to Vidacovich, has been very well-received. “They liked it a lot – a lot more than I imagined,” he is quoted in OffBeat magazine. “I thought the music would be a little too orchestral. There’s a lot of things that we’re doing that are just out of the norm.”

“I can tell you what it sounds like to me sometimes when I’m involved with the music and my head is spinning,” he continued. “It reminds me of a circus and a Christmas tree with a lot of lights.”

Because pianist Haas, unlike the other members, doesn’t live in New Orleans, Nolatet is a get-it-while-you can band though all concerned express their hope and intent to do much more in the future.

Just an aside – it’s great to have Dillon, who absolutely floored the crowd at last year’s performance of his New Orleans Punk Rock Percussion Consortium – back at Bayou Boogaloo. Hopefully, the Consortium, an amazing collection of rhythm masters will return next year or be booked somewhere else soon.

The Lowrider Band, which partly due to the presence of one-time Crescent City resident, drummer Harold Brown, feels almost like its from New Orleans. It’s also got that funk and street band attitude that music lovers here can really relate to. The last time the Lowriders performed in New Orleans was in 2009 at a benefit for the Save Charity Hospital organization. Now that’s awhile ago…

The band is, of course, made up of original members of the group War, including Brown, the great harmonica player Lee Oskar, guitarist Howard Scott and bassist B.B. Dickerson, who, because of health issues will be unable to perform with his fellow Lowriders. Due to a court order, nobody in the group is allowed to mention their participation in War in any promotional material or advertisements. Fortunately, these talents have been able to retain their rights to their compositions and receive royalties.

“Here’s how we say it,” Brown explained. “We are the original composers of and performers on ‘Why Can’t We Be Friends?,’ ‘The Cisco Kid,’ ‘The World is a Ghetto,’ and ‘All Day Music.’ All our friends know the Lowriders. Everybody knows exactly who we are.”

“When we come to play in New Orleans it’s like playing at home in our living room,” Brown once proclaimed. “You can drop all of your big shot attitudes. In New Orleans they want to know about your soul – your spirit. I tell people when they come into the city, to turn off the radio and roll down the windows.”

The socially conscious messages of tunes like Bob Marley’s “One Love” are much needed in today’s world. The Wailers keep that warmth, the much-loved classic songs and laid-back reggae riddims alive. Bassist Aston “Family Man” Barrett is the only member of the touring band that performed and recorded with the group that backed the late, legendary Bob Marley who influenced the world with the magic of his music and his pen. Barrett was the heartbeat of the rock steady beat, the sound that could be felt to one’s core. Reggae by the Bayou seems so right.

Our local stars like bassist George Porter & the Runnin’ Pardners (Sunday, 4 p.m.), the Queen of New Orleans Soul, Irma Thomas (Saturday, 5 p.m.) and zydeco go-getter, accordionist/vocalist Dwayne Dopsie (Friday, 6:15 p.m.) also bolster the impressive schedule.

Parents might want to bring their children to the Kids Stage on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. where Daria Dzurik, the leader/steel pan player/vocalist of Daria & The Hip Drops fame will hold a percussion workshop. With her talent, lively personality and big smile, Dzurik has the qualities to educate and entertain the whole family. She and the Hip Drops certainly caught the crowd at this year’s French Quarter Festival.

On Friday, the music schedule is abbreviated and begins in the evening on two stages starting at 5 p.m. The Wailers, which hit the stage at 7:45 p.m. close it down. On Saturday and Sunday the music gets going at 11 a.m. Naturally there are food and beverage vendors aplenty and arts and crafts booths from one end of the fest to the other.

One of the beauties of the festival remains its wonderful setting and just being able to sit along Bayou St. John and relax.

This article originally published in the May 16, 2016 print edition of The Louisiana Weekly newspaper.

Filed Under: Featured, HISTORY, Living Well, More Great Posts! Tagged With: bayou boogaloo, bayou st john, best neighborhood in New Orleans, faubourg st john, festival, food, fun, help, music, New Orleans, opportunity, volunteer

Bodacious Boogaloo

May 16, 2016 by Charlie London

by Charlie London

2016boogaloobanner4fsjna

Since the beginning, the Bayou Boogaloo, held on the banks of Bayou St. John in New Orleans during May, has had a mission to give back to the community. The first Bayou Boogaloo in 2006 was a healing effort for the community. Many folks were still rebuilding their lives and their houses after “the storm”. The Bayou Boogaloo was a welcome respite from the daily grind. It provided much needed fun for both adults and children.

One of the often forgotten aspects of the Bayou Boogaloo is its emphasis on zero impact on the environment. I’ve personally witnessed the meticulous cleanup after the event. One would never know the music festival ever took place because the area is left as clean or cleaner than it was before the event.

The Bayou Boogaloo has promoted solar energy, recycling and encouraged folks to consider the environment. The Bayou Boogaloo has led by example. Several huge oak trees have been planted along the banks of Bayou St. John leaving a lasting positive impact on the environment and the community.

The Bayou Boogaloo gives back in other ways too! The event helps neighborhood organizations raise funds for their operations, has helped build playgrounds, has supported community sports initiatives, helped plant native habitat-building and erosion-preventing marsh grasses, and replaced trees lost during hurricanes.

The City even recognized the Bayou Boogaloo’s founder, Jared Zeller, with a proclamation for promoting an economically and environmentally sustainable event.

Join the Bayou Boogaloo this Friday, Saturday and Sunday May 20, 21, and 22. The Bayou Boogaloo is more than just a music festival, it’s a community building coalition!

More info at: http://thebayouboogaloo.com/

***
THE BEAT GOES ON AT THE BAYOU BOOGALOO
By Geraldine Wyckoff
Contributing Writer

It’s been less than three weeks since the last notes rang out at the Fair Grounds to close the 2016 edition of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Not far away, bands will strike up again at the 11th Annual Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo. The free event is presented from Friday, May 20 to Sunday, May 22, 2016 along the banks of Bayou St. John between Dumaine Street and N. Jefferson Davis Parkway. It features three main music stages at Dumaine Street, Orleans Avenue and Lafitte Street plus a Kids Stage that has both music and other activities to please the youngsters.

There are some excellent local and national headliners at the festival that didn’t perform at this year’s Jazz Fest including Nolatet (Sunday, 6 p.m.), The Lowrider Band (Saturday, 7:45 p.m.) and the Wailers (Friday, 7:45 p.m.).

Let’s start with Nolatet, a band of all-star jazz masters – drummer Johnny Vidacovich, bassist James Singleton, vibraphonist/percussionist Mike Dillon and pianist Brian Haas. This performance marks the first time many local people will have the opportunity to experience this group as they’ve only performed in New Orleans several times. Formed spontaneously in 2014 and quickly releasing its exciting debut album, Dogs (The Royal Potato Family) just this year, Nolatet has been out on tour promoting the CD and, according to Vidacovich, has been very well-received. “They liked it a lot – a lot more than I imagined,” he is quoted in OffBeat magazine. “I thought the music would be a little too orchestral. There’s a lot of things that we’re doing that are just out of the norm.”

“I can tell you what it sounds like to me sometimes when I’m involved with the music and my head is spinning,” he continued. “It reminds me of a circus and a Christmas tree with a lot of lights.”

Because pianist Haas, unlike the other members, doesn’t live in New Orleans, Nolatet is a get-it-while-you can band though all concerned express their hope and intent to do much more in the future.

Just an aside – it’s great to have Dillon, who absolutely floored the crowd at last year’s performance of his New Orleans Punk Rock Percussion Consortium – back at Bayou Boogaloo. Hopefully, the Consortium, an amazing collection of rhythm masters will return next year or be booked somewhere else soon.

The Lowrider Band, which partly due to the presence of one-time Crescent City resident, drummer Harold Brown, feels almost like its from New Orleans. It’s also got that funk and street band attitude that music lovers here can really relate to. The last time the Lowriders performed in New Orleans was in 2009 at a benefit for the Save Charity Hospital organization. Now that’s awhile ago…

The band is, of course, made up of original members of the group War, including Brown, the great harmonica player Lee Oskar, guitarist Howard Scott and bassist B.B. Dickerson, who, because of health issues will be unable to perform with his fellow Lowriders. Due to a court order, nobody in the group is allowed to mention their participation in War in any promotional material or advertisements. Fortunately, these talents have been able to retain their rights to their compositions and receive royalties.

“Here’s how we say it,” Brown explained. “We are the original composers of and performers on ‘Why Can’t We Be Friends?,’ ‘The Cisco Kid,’ ‘The World is a Ghetto,’ and ‘All Day Music.’ All our friends know the Lowriders. Everybody knows exactly who we are.”

“When we come to play in New Orleans it’s like playing at home in our living room,” Brown once proclaimed. “You can drop all of your big shot attitudes. In New Orleans they want to know about your soul – your spirit. I tell people when they come into the city, to turn off the radio and roll down the windows.”

The socially conscious messages of tunes like Bob Marley’s “One Love” are much needed in today’s world. The Wailers keep that warmth, the much-loved classic songs and laid-back reggae riddims alive. Bassist Aston “Family Man” Barrett is the only member of the touring band that performed and recorded with the group that backed the late, legendary Bob Marley who influenced the world with the magic of his music and his pen. Barrett was the heartbeat of the rock steady beat, the sound that could be felt to one’s core. Reggae by the Bayou seems so right.

Our local stars like bassist George Porter & the Runnin’ Pardners (Sunday, 4 p.m.), the Queen of New Orleans Soul, Irma Thomas (Saturday, 5 p.m.) and zydeco go-getter, accordionist/vocalist Dwayne Dopsie (Friday, 6:15 p.m.) also bolster the impressive schedule.

Parents might want to bring their children to the Kids Stage on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. where Daria Dzurik, the leader/steel pan player/vocalist of Daria & The Hip Drops fame will hold a percussion workshop. With her talent, lively personality and big smile, Dzurik has the qualities to educate and entertain the whole family. She and the Hip Drops certainly caught the crowd at this year’s French Quarter Festival.

On Friday, the music schedule is abbreviated and begins in the evening on two stages starting at 5 p.m. The Wailers, which hit the stage at 7:45 p.m. close it down. On Saturday and Sunday the music gets going at 11 a.m. Naturally there are food and beverage vendors aplenty and arts and crafts booths from one end of the fest to the other.

One of the beauties of the festival remains its wonderful setting and just being able to sit along Bayou St. John and relax.

This article originally published in the May 16, 2016 print edition of The Louisiana Weekly newspaper.

Filed Under: Featured, HISTORY, Living Well, Magical Mystery Tour, More Great Posts!, Postcards from Home Tagged With: bayou, bayou boogaloo, bayou st john, best neighborhood in New Orleans, boogaloo, family friendly, faubourg st john, festival, fun, good food, music, musicians, neighborhood, New Orleans, new orleans best neighborhood, new orleans festival, new orleans fun, party

Please Leave Us With Great Memories of Your Visit

March 29, 2016 by Charlie London

Welcome!
We hope you leave us with great memories of your visit.

cropped-cropped-bayoustjohn-940-header.jpg
Regardless of whether you live in Faubourg St. John or are a visitor,  everyone is glad you are here. Faubourg St. John has one of the best reputations in New Orleans as a community that cares.

vincamajorFaubourg St. John loves visitors. In Faubourg St. John, you get a unique, extraordinary experience. Faubourg St. John gives visitors an authentic, high-quality New Orlean experience that you will remember for a long time.

Jazz Fest, Bayou Boogaloo, and the Voodoo Experience are premier festivals that draw people from around the world because of the great fun the festivals provide. Bayou St. John is a beautiful inland waterway where you can rent a kayak to explore yourself or get a kayak tour and learn lots of great things about New Orleans.

Fortier Park, located in the 3200 block of Esplanade, offers natural beauty and modern art in a restful space. The park was redeveloped and is maintained by Faubourg St. John residents.

Fortier Park is just across from Faubourg St. Johns central business district where you can visit with local people running local businesses. Top rated restaurants, a day spa, a coffee shop and two great local grocery stores are all waiting for you to experience.

Take a short bike ride down Esplanade to Broad and Bayou Road and you’ll find even more unique shops and great local folks waiting to serve you.

City Park is a short walk from Faubourg St. John where you’ll find the New Orleans Museum of Art, Morning Call (coffee and beignets!), Storyland (rides and fun for the kids), and City Putt (minature golf for all ages). City Park is one of the largest urban parks in America.

On your way to City Park, on Esplanade Avenue, stop by St. Louis Cemetary #3 where you can see the beautiful above-ground tombs.

bayoustjohn-magnoliabridge-1937PITOT HOUSEFaubourg St. John is also home to the Pitot House at 1440 Moss Street. It’s where the first mayor of incorporated New Orleans lived. It’s nestled along Bayou St. John and across from the Magnolia Bridge.

Faubourg St. John is just a mile from the world famous French Quarter with bus and streetcar service to interesting places all around New Orleans.

Information below courtesy Rachel Dangermond:

City Park and Bayou St. John
The intersection of Esplanade Ave. at Bayou St. John and City Park Ave. is one of the points of higher elevation in the city. Bayou Metairie flowed into Bayou St. John here. Bienville is supposed to have found the Indian village of Tchou-Tchouma in 1718 where the Esplanade Ave. bridge is now located. In the 18th and 19th centuries Bayou St. John provided an important second water route to the city. The mouth of the bayou at Lake Pontchartrain was protected by a fort built by the Spanish.

Ocean going vessels were able to travel as far as the present end of the bayou. From this point goods were carried to and from the city by portage during the 18th century along Bayou Road. In 1805, a canal was dug, following an earlier canal by Spanish governor Carondelet, which brought the ships to a turning basin just behind what is now the Municipal Auditorium at Basin St.

Statue of Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard
(May 28, 1818 – February 20, 1893) was a Louisiana-born American author, civil servant, politician, inventor, and the first prominent general for the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War. Beauregard was trained as a civil engineer at the United States Military Academy and served with distinction as an engineer in the Mexican-American War.

His arguably greatest achievement was saving the city of Petersburg, Virginia, and thus also the Confederate capital of Richmond, from assaults by overwhelmingly superior Union Army forces in June 1864. However, his influence over Confederate strategy was marred by his poor professional relationships with President Jefferson Davis and other senior generals and officials. In April 1865, Beauregard and his commander, General Joseph E. Johnston, convinced Davis and the remaining cabinet members that the war needed to end. Johnston surrendered most of the remaining armies of the Confederacy to Maj. Gen. William T. Sherman, including Beauregard and his men.

Following his military career, Beauregard served as a railroad executive and became one of the few wealthy Confederate veterans because of his role in promoting the Louisiana Lottery. Today he is commonly referred to as P.G.T. Beauregard, but during the war he rarely used his first name and signed correspondence as G.T. Beauregard. Nicknames were The Little Creole, The Little Napoleon, Bory, Felix

Place of birth: St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana ontreras” sugar-cane plantation in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana, about 20 miles (32 km) outside New Orleans, to a white Creole family, the third child of Jacques Toutant-Beauregard and Helene Judith de Reggio Toutant-Beauregard. He had three brothers and three sisters. Beauregard attended New Orleans schools and then went to a “French school” in New York City. It was during his four years in New York, beginning at age 12 that he first learned to speak English. He trained at the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. One of his instructors was Robert Anderson, who would later become the commander of Fort Sumter and surrender to Beauregard at the start of the Civil War.

In 1841, Beauregard married Marie Laure Villeré, the daughter of Jules Villeré, a sugar planter in Plaquemines Parish and a member of one of the most prominent Creole families in southern Louisiana.

Marie was a paternal granddaughter of Jacques Villeré, the second governor of Louisiana. The couple had three children: René, Henri, and Laure. Marie died in March 1850, while giving birth to Laure.

Ten years later, the widower Beauregard married Caroline Deslonde, the daughter of André Deslonde, a sugar planter from St. James Parish. Caroline was a sister-in-law of John
Slidell, a U.S. senator from Louisiana and later a Confederate diplomat. She died in Union-occupied New Orleans in March 1864. They had no children together.

On first meeting, most people were struck by [Beauregard’s] “foreign” appearance. His skin was smooth and olive-complexioned. His eyes, half-lidded, were dark, with a trace of Gallic melancholy about them.

His hair was black (though by 1860 he maintained this hue with dye). He was strikingly handsome and enjoyed the attentions of women, but probably not excessively or illicitly.
He sported a dark mustache and goatee, and he rather resembled Napoleon III, then ruler of France—although he often saw himself in the mold of the more celebrated Napoleon Bonaparte.

Place of death: New Orleans, Louisiana and was buried in the Tomb of the Army of Tennessee, Metairie Cemetery, New Orleans

City Park is a beautiful and well maintained urban park, the largest in the city and fifth largest municipal park in the United States and, at this writing, is reported to be one of the safest. In 1854, the first section of the park was acquired by the city. This tract of land, fronting on Bayou St. John and present City Park Ave., was part of the Allard Plantation. The first improvements to the park were made in the 1890’s. The park is laced with lagoons (the lagoons along City Park Ave. are part of old Bayou Metairie, seven miles of them which contain bass and bream), and trees typical of the region such as magnolias and live oaks
(the dueling oaks are named for the duels that were supposed to have taken place from 1804 to 1830).

The amusement park area has a fine old carousel dating from 1904. The Casino, dating from about 1914 is the center for information, rentals, and refreshments (coffee and beignets!) (domed band shell and Beaux Art style pavilion were built in the 30’s). The park has three 18-hole golf courses. Major restorations and all of the paving of roadways, construction of bridges, drainage and other improvements in a large area of the park were done under WPA in the late 30’s.

copy of the Pitot Housec. 1940
800 Moss Street
A modern Pitot House (see 1440 Moss Street) facsimile. One of the original Pitot House mantels still survives in the newer residence.

Louis Blanc Housec. 1798
924 Moss Street
Formerly the plantation and home Louis Antonio Blanc. The second story gallery has slender colonnettes and the French window, jalousies and steep roof are characteristic of
Louisiana colonial plantation houses; similar to Parlange and Homeplace Plantations elsewhere in the state.

Spanish Custom Housec. 1784
1300 Moss Street
A small-scale typical Louisiana Plantation hose. Various reasons have been given for the name of the so-called “Custom House” although there is no real tradition that it ever functioned in this manner. Probably built for Don Santiago Lloreins when the land formed part of his plantation.

Evariste Blanc House
(Holy Rosary Rectory)
c. 1834
1342 Moss Street
Some Greek Revival alterations have been made in this Bayou St. John plantation house, although evidence of an earlier style including slender colonnettes and round arched doors, is plainly visible.

Cabrini High School1964 – 1965
1400 Moss Street

Morel-Wisner House
c. 1850’s
1347 Moss Street
Mid-19th century, possibly constructed as a residence for the attorney Christoval Morel in the late 1840’s after he purchased a large tract of land on the Bayou St. John in 1847. The house served as New Orleans’ first Fencing Club in the 1880’s and one time as a rowing club. From
1935 until her death the house served as the home of Dr. Elizabeth Wisner, an original member of the faculty and later the dean of the School of Social Work at Tulane University.

Christoval Morel’s father, Pierre L. Morel dueled under the oaks in City Park while his wife (Victorine de Armas) was pregnant with Christoval. The Duelling Oaks in City Park have seen some of the most colorful scenes in New Orleans’ history. For years sword clanged against sword and bullets streaked between the ancient trees.

An article in the Times-Democrat, March 13, 1892, said, “Blood has been shed under the old cathedral aisles of nature. Between 1834 and 1844 scarcely a day passed without duels being fought at the Oaks. Why, it would not be strange if the very violets blossomed red of this soaked grass! The lover for his mistress, the gentleman for his honor, the courtier for his King; what loyalty has not cried out in pistol shot and scratch of steel! Sometimes two or three hundred people hurried from the city to witness these human baitings. On the occasion of one duel the spectators could stand no more, drew their swords, and there was a general melee.”

In early Creole days more duels were fought in New Orleans than any other American city. Creole honor was a thing of intricate delicacy, to be offended by a word or glance. The Duelling Oaks were a favorite setting for these affaires d’honneur, with pistol, saber, or colichemarde, a long sword with a broad forte and very slender foible, a favorite duelling weapon since the seventeenth century.

Creoles were expert swordsmen and often delighted in any and every opportunity to exhibit their art. Duels were fought over real and trivial insults, were sometimes deliberately
provoked by young men anxious to display their skill. A quarrel between rival lovers, a fancied slight, a political argument, a difference of opinion regarding an opera, any one of these things was ample excuse for a duel under the oaks. In his History of Louisiana, Alcee Fortier states that on one Sunday in 1839 ten duels were fought here.

In 1855 the police began to enforce the laws against duelling, but it continued surreptitiously for many years, despite frequent arrests and prosecutions. Finally, however, the law began to have some effect and there seems to have arisen a simultaneous loss of interest in the affairs. At last the time came when a man challenged to defend his honor with the sword or pistol, suffered no stigma by refusing an invitation to the Oaks. By 1890 duelling was only history.

The house is a frame one and a half story Greek Revival style structure raised off the ground on six-foot-high piles. The large half story created by the gabled roof is broken by two fine dormers on the Bayou St. John façade. The roof which extends outward to form a gallery across the bayou façade is supported by six square wooden columns resting on the brick piers below.

The entrance façade is five bays wide with the front door placed at the center. The façade is covered with ship-lap siding while ordinary weatherboards cover the solid brick exterior walls. The rear, which once contained a gallery and two cabinets, has been converted to a kitchen/den/breakfast area.

The house is very similar to raised houses in the Bayou-Lafourche area. However, by the 1840’s the traditional Creole plan with no hall had been replaced with the increasingly popular center hall plan favored by Americans. As such, this house is an important example of two different building styles. Morel house is a New Orleans landmark.

Pitot House
c. 1796 – 1799
1440 Moss Street (Formerly 1370 Moss Street) In 1964 as a result of a trade with Cabrini High School the Pitot House, threatened with demolition, was moved about 200 feet and is now located in a corner of the Desmare Playground. It is another fine Moss Street example of the Louisiana plantation house on a fairly small scale. While the upper part of the present structure is totally original, some of the older brick columns were either re-used or rebuilt after the move. Restored under the auspices of the Louisiana Landmarks Society. Open Thursday 11 am – 4 pm.

Musgrove-Wilkinson Housec. 1850’s
1454 Moss Street
A large, extremely simple Greek Revival residence, with wide central hall and plain interior mouldings.

New Orleans Museum of Art
1911 City Park
1971 Additions: Stern Auditorium, Wisner Educational Wing and City Wing – August Perez & Associates, Architects and Arthur Feitel, Consulting Architect.

The Degas House 
Historic Home,
Courtyard & Inn
 2306 Esplanade Avenue 
New Orleans, Louisiana 70119 
(504) 821-5009 
www.degashouse.com

jazzfestassholesWe love the folks who visit Faubourg St. John. However, there are some visitors who drink a bit too much and forget their manners. If you wouldn’t do it at your momma’s house, please don’t do it here.

For your safety, please consider checking out some of the information below:

Stash cash, credit cards and any currency.
Don’t make yourself vulnerable.
Work that cellphone.
Carry makeshift self defense weapons.
Identify safe places and people.

Please visit the link below for more:
http://www.axs.com/tips-to-stay-safe-at-new-orleans-jazz-heritage-festival-jazz-fest-safe-51357

Assume people driving cars do not see you. Drivers may be drunk, tired and sunburned; don’t expect that the drivers see the red light, let alone the periodic Jazz Fest reveler jumping out in the middle of the street.

Beware of bikers. A good rule of thumb is to treat a bike like a car. If you see one coming, don’t think you can run across the street right in front of it. Bikers will come upon you faster and be much slower at stopping than you think.

When walking from Jazz Fest to the location of your post-festing-party, remember that you may be traveling through potentially dangerous areas. Do not walk alone, know where you’re going and be aware of your surroundings.

Do not forget to hydrate! Dehydration can make people disoriented and alcohol adds fuel to the dehydration fire. I cannot count the number of Jazz Fest partiers I have seen take a spill due to too much alcohol and too little water. Don’t look like an amateur, drink lots of water!

More information in the link below:
http://www.morrisbart.com/pedestrian-safety-at-new-orleans-jazz-fest/

New Orleans weather is unpredictable and the Fair Grounds tend to be muddy, so bring lawn chairs, an umbrella, and garbage bags, which double as a raincoat and a dry place to sit. The Louisiana heat can be unforgiving, so pack your sunscreen and a hat too.

Do not forget toilet tissue, as you are sharing those port-o-potties with 400,000 others.

To avoid the heavy crowds, walk on the circular horse racing track around the perimeter of the Fair Grounds, and venture out to the grandstands for food demonstrations, art installations, shade and clean restrooms.

More information in the link below:
http://www.foxnews.com/travel/2012/02/13/new-orleans-jazz-fest-for-beginners/

Venture Beyond the Headliners
Absolutely Do Not Get Behind the Wheel
Come hungry
Linger in Mid-City
Indulge Intelligently
Don’t Miss NOLA by Night
Go for the Double

More information in the link below:
http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2015/04/7-survival-tips-new-orleans-jazz-heritage-festival.html

To ensure proper safety and preparation, please read the following rules and policies:

All persons and bags are subject to search

• Single, collapsible folding chairs (NO foot rests, side tables) and small folding
blankets are permitted.
• Wheelchairs permitted. Strollers for children permitted.
• NO FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY.
• NO tents or shades of any fashion.
• NO bicycles or other wheeled personal transport devices allowed on the
grounds or infield.
• NO flashing devices of any kind.
• NO unauthorized vending.
• NO weapons, illicit drugs, contraband or fireworks.
• NO outside food, beverages or glass allowed.
• NO flag/kite-flying of any kind.
• NO Inflatables of any kind – this includes beach balls.
• NO pets.

Festival chairs and/or festival baggage are not allowed to be set-up anywhere in the
Grandstand, Paddock or Apron areas. They are only permitted on the Infield in certain areas.

All entrances and exits will be clearly marked for your safety.

fsj-bastille-2014Bayou St. John is the beautiful waterway that runs through Faubourg St. John.

We are so glad you are here.
Please leave no trace.

Bring yourself to the bayou.
Take your stuff home with you. ‪#‎leavenotrace‬

***

Below is short explanation of what the Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association is about:

The Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association (FSJNA), organized in 1977, is a benevolent group interested in continuing improvements in this historic New Orleans neighborhood through its people, children, historic waterway, public spaces and other environs.

FSJNA has participated in numerous beautification efforts throughout Faubourg St. John from Parks and Playgrounds to simple street plantings. A few examples of this are Desmare Playground, rebuilt by FSJNA in the early 90’s and beautified with tree plantings in 2008, the maintenance and care of Fortier Park, the beautification of the median on Esplanade Avenue and plantings along Bayou St. John. FSJNA worked in conjunction with KABOOM to restore the children’s’ play area at Stallings Playground, which was negatively impacted by Hurricane Katrina. After playground equipment was installed, FSJNA obtained a loan to purchase additionally needed rubberized safety tiles for the area. FSJNA also continues to apply for grants to support these activities. Our Keep Louisiana Beautiful grant allowed us to obtain benches and garbage cans for local parks.

FSJNA works to keep its membership informed. The https://fsjna.org website (available to anyone) is a library of the events, benefits, and programs FSJNA provides. Additionally fsjna.com is a resource for paid members (dues are $10 per year) this is a “yahoo group” website where members can exchange ideas, get neighborhood information, and even get hurricane updates.

During previous hurricanes, this site was a welcome source of information from people who stayed in the neighborhood to those who evacuated. It can be very reassuring to know the status of your home when you are away. The Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association is also represented on FACEBOOK and TWITTER.   Faubourg St. John is also at NEXTDOOR.com… http://faubourgstjohn.nextdoor.com

No one in the organization gets paid. The Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association is an all volunteer organization where any donations or membership dues go directly back into making Faubourg St. John the best neighborhood in New Orleans.

While zoning matters can be contentious, they are a necessary function of an involved neighborhood organization. FSJNA has successfully negotiated and worked with most of the neighborhood businesses to protect the quality of life and increase the appeal of the area for those businesses and residents through limiting traffic and noise pollution, helping with the elimination of blight and providing safer streets.

FSJNA also works with and reaches out to other non-profits and bordering neighborhood organizations by participating in area festivals, cultural events, community workshops and informational seminars. Future work will continue to focus on building partnerships with local non-profits and community organizations to help retain the historic character and positive quality of life we enjoy.

Filed Under: Featured, HISTORY Tagged With: bayou st john, faubourg st john, festivals, fun, jazz fest, jazz fest parking, jazz fest safety, music, New Orleans

Symphony Chorus

February 20, 2016 by Charlie London

Howard Mielke sent in the flyer below.
He enjoys the Symphony Chorus and thought you might too!

Dr. Mielke is an avid traveler, camper, nature enthusiast, and tenor with the Symphony Chorus of New Orleans since 1997.

chorus

Symphony Chorus of New Orleans (SCNO) is an all-volunteer chorus that has provided superlative choral music to the greater New Orleans area for more than 35 years. Each member brings considerable talent, knowledge of choral music, and a true commitment and love of choral music and its continuing presence in New Orleans.

Many of their performances are free, but donations are always welcome. For those performances that require tickets, you can purchase them online here. We welcome groups to our performances and we can even arrange a personalized performance for your organization!

If you sing, please visit their auditions page at http://www.symphonychorus.org/wp/?page_id=76

The award-winning Symphony Chorus of New Orleans (SCNO) is a 501(c)3 organization, specializing in the performance of choral-orchestral works. Under the direction of Steven Edwards, the 100-member all volunteer community-wide chorus performs numerous concerts each year. Over the past 35 years, the chorus has collaborated with the New Orleans Symphony, The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, as well as producing concerts on its own. Symphony Chorus (then, known as New Orleans Symphony Chorus) was founded in 1981 by Larry Wyatt under the auspices of the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra. When the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra ceased operations in 1991 and re-emerged as the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, the Chorus reorganized as an entity separate from the orchestra and became known as Symphony Chorus of New Orleans. Today, SCNO functions as a fully independent organization. A community-based volunteer Board of Directors governs all operations of the Chorus. The Chorus consists of approximately 100 volunteer singers who must pass a comprehensive audition. All singers have considerable experience in choral music and many of them hold professional positions with other choruses and church choirs. All singers commit to weekly rehearsals throughout the season, plus additional time commitments during performance weeks. Funding is received from public sources, foundations, corporations and individual support.

Filed Under: Featured, HISTORY Tagged With: chorus, music, New Orleans, perform, performance, sing, symphony, symphony chorus

Bodacious on the Bayou

May 7, 2015 by Charlie London

The Bayou Boogaloo will take place on the banks of Bayou St. John May 15, 16 and 17, 2015.

photo by Susan Roth
photo by Susan Roth

Music, art, food and lots of fun.

It’s a bodacious party you don’t want to miss.

Get a daiquiri at the Bayou Daiquiris booth manned by your Faubourg St. John neighbors!

schedule-2015-web

The Bayou Boogaloo connects neighbors, neighborhoods, and businesses while celebrating the heritage, culture, and diversity of New Orleans.

map4web

From NOLA.com:

Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo 2015

Admission: Free

Music: The 2015 Bayou Boogaloo will feature Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Express, hip-hop producer Mannie Fresh, the New Orleans Suspects, modern rock band Rotary Downs and scores of well-regarded New Orleans bands. For a complete, stage-by-stage schedule, see below.

Food: The 2015 festival hosts 26 food vendors, ranging from such noted restaurants as Boucherie, Praline Connection and Ralph’s on The Park to a contingent of well-known food truck purveyors: Crepes a la Carte and Woody’s Fish Tacos, among others.

Arts Market: The 2015 festival will showcase 64 area artists and craft workers in tented booths. Look for jewelry, hats, handmade soap, glass objects and much more.

Parking: Bayou Boogaloo is working with Deutsches Haus, 1700 Moss St., which is selling off site parking to festival visitors. A three-day parking pass is $25; daily parking is $10. Reservations are recommended and must be made online through the event website. Payment is through Eventbrite: Fees apply. One can also pay for parking at the gate on a first-come, first-served basis. Bayou Boogaloo will provide a free shuttle between the Deutsches Haus parking area and the festival grounds. Bayou Boogaloo is still seeking to confirm additional off-street parking at The Cannery, 3803 Toulouse St. Watch the festival website for details about hours, prices and purchase options.

2015 Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo Music Schedule:

FRIDAY, MAY 15

Positive Vibrations Stage (Orleans Avenue)

Dave Jordan & Neighborhood Improvement Association, 5 p.m.-6:10 p.m.

Mannie Fresh, 6:30 p.m.-7:20 p.m.

MotherShip Foundation Stage (Dumaine Street)

Pontchartrain Wrecks, 5 p.m.-6:15 p.m.

Alexandra Scott & Her Magical Band, 6:45 p.m.-8:15 p.m.

 

SATURDAY, MAY 16

Positive Vibrations Stage (Orleans Avenue)

Soul Creole, 12:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Wild Magnolias, 2:45 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Tony Hall & Friends, 5:15 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

New Orleans Suspects, 7:45 p.m. – 9:15 p.m.

MotherShip Foundation Stage (Dumaine Street)

 Ecirb Muller’s Twisted Dixie, 11 a.m – 12:05 p.m.

Davis Rogan, 12:35 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Pirates Choice, 2:15 p.m. – 3:25 p.m.

Funky Dawgz Brass Band, 3:55 p.m. – 5:05 p.m.

Yojimbo, 5:35 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.

Kristin Diable, 7:15 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Abita Stage (Lafitte Street)

Bantam Foxes, 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

Kevin Stylez, 1:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.

Erica Falls, 4 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.

Woodenhead, 6:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m.

 

SUNDAY, MAY 17

Positive Vibrations Stage (Orleans Street)

Papa Mali, 12 p.m. – 1:10 p.m.

Mike Dillon’s Punk Rock Percussion Consortium, 2:20 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

101 Runners, 4:40 p.m. – 5:50 p.m.

Ivan Neville’s Dumstaphunk, 7 p.m – 8:30 p.m.

MotherShip Foundation Stage (Dumaine Street)

Chicago Children’s Choir, 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

Meschiya Lake and Tom McDermott, 12:45 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Chrisitan Serpas & Ghost Town, 2:30 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.

N’awlins Johnny’s, 4:15 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Rotary Downs, 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Abita Stage (Lafitte Street)

Bhakti Caravan, 11 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Kim Carson, 1:10 p.m. – 2:20 p.m.

Colin Lake, 3:30 p.m. – 4:40 p.m.

To Be Continued Brass Band, 5:50 p.m. – 7 p.m.

 

http://www.thebayouboogaloo.com/shop
The official 2015 Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo Festival poster artist is Becky Fos. This is the official commissioned piece, now available for pre-order on www.TheBayouBoogaloo.com. Get that 10th annual poster now before they sell out!

***

Bicycle Pub Crawl May 16th

  • 8:30 AM –  9:30 AM: REGISTRATION AT “THE BANKS STREET BAR & GRILL” 4401 BANKS ST
  • 9:45 AM – 10:30 AM: 2ND STOP. “LIUZZA’S BY THE TRACK” 1518 N LOPEZ ST
  • 10:35 AM – 11:20 AM: 3RD STOP. “PAGODA CAFE” 1430 N DORGENOIS ST
  • 11:25 AM – 12:10 PM: 4TH STOP. “OOH POO PAH DOO BAR” 1931 ORLEANS AVE
  • 12:15 PM –  1:00 PM. 5TH STOP. “THE BROAD THEATER” 636 N BROAD ST
  • 1:05 PM –  1:50 PM: 6TH STOP. “ZULU SOCIAL AID AND PLEASURE CLUB” 732 N BROAD ST
  • 2:00 PM: LAST STOP. “BAYOU BOOGALOO FESTIVAL“

Mid-City Volleyball Group is planning another outrageous bicycle pub crawl in association with the Bayou Boogaloo.  This is the seventh year of a Saturday morning pub crawl to get primed for the Bayou Boogaloo.  It’s a joint fundraiser for Mid-City Volleyball Group and the MotherShip Foundation with a suggested donation of $20.00.  You’ll have to buy your own drinks at most, but not all, stops, and you’ll get a little swag at one of the stops.  Please sign up for this fun-filled event at their website so they can get an accurate head count: www.midcityvolleyball.org.

 

Filed Under: Featured Tagged With: art, bayou boogaloo, bayou st john, bodacious, boogaloo, event, faubourg st john, festival, festivals, food, fun, music, New Orleans

Twilight Concerts in City Park

December 27, 2014 by Charlie London

pavillion2sisters“Thursdays at Twilight” Concert Series

January through April 2015 Schedule of Concerts at

the New Orleans Botanical Garden in New Orleans City Park

 

What:          Join music lovers at City Park to hear some of New Orleans’ favorite performers during the “Thursdays at Twilight” concert series. Bring your friends to enjoy this very popular series with an array of musicians and mint juleps indoors at the Pavilion of the Two Sisters.  This series is sponsored by the Louis and Virginia Clemente Foundation with support from WWNO 89.9 FM.  

Admission is $10 per person. Mint juleps, wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and food are available for purchase. No outside food, drink, or pets are allowed.  

Advance tickets are available online at NewOrleansCityPark.com. Advance tickets may also be purchased over the phone at 504-483-9488 or at the Botanical Garden Gift Shop. Thursdays at Twilight Series Season Passes are also available for purchase.  

When:         Thursday Evenings

                   5:00 PM – Gates Open, 6:00 PM – Performance Begins 

Where:        Pavilion of the Two Sisters, New Orleans Botanical Garden, City Park 

Contact:     New Orleans Botanical Garden: phone: 504-483-9488 or email: [email protected]

February 5 – Lena Prima

To some performers, having a legendary father might be daunting. Not for Lena Prima. Born in show business and raised on the road with her famous dad, the singer/songwriter/artist has earned her own reputation around the country for her energetic charismatic performances. She will perform songs of her father as well as some of her original tunes. For more info please visit lenaprimamusic.com.

 

February 19 – Rick Trolson’s New Orleans Po’boys

The New Orleans Po’Boys are reminiscent of the renowned “George Girard and his New Orleans Five” that lit up Bourbon Street as a regular fixture in the 1950s at the Famous Door. The Po-Boys’ repertoire include both familiar traditional New Orleans music, along with some original tunes. For more info please visit ricktrolsen.com.

 

February 26 – Seva Venet and the Storyville String Band featuring Tanya Boutté 

A purveyor and preserver of the string band tradition, guitarist and banjoist Seva Venet has performed with dozens of New Orleans jazz and string musicians since moving to the city from Los Angeles. This year will feature New Orleans vocalist Tanya Boutte. It is sure to be a great evening. For more info please visit sevavenet.com/bio/htm OR tanyaboutte.com.

 

March 5 – James Andrews

If anyone can pull off aligning himself with the famous Louis Armstrong it’s trumpet extraordinaire – James Andrews. However bold this move may be, the New Orleans native earned the “Satchmo of the Ghetto” alias back in his Tremé neighborhood and the name still sizzles in the city. For more info please visit jamesandrewsmusic.com.

 

March 12 – Phil Melancon

Phil performs the musical spirit and style of his hometown, New Orleans.  Always entertaining and full of surprises, make sure you are there so you won’t miss a thing.

 

March 19 – New Leviathan Oriental Fox-Trot Orchestra

The New Leviathan Oriental Fox-Trot Orchestra is an American revival orchestra that performs vintage American music popular from the 1890s through the early 1930s. The orchestra pays particular attention to the music of New Orleans, in addition to the well-known compositions of jazz and ragtime composers like Jelly Roll Morton, Fletcher Henderson, and Eubie Blake.

  

March 26 – James Rivers Movement

James Rivers is a New Orleans musical treasure. He plays a mixture of rock, progressive jazz, rhythm and blues and gospel; the sort of music that implies something for everybody when it’s played. Rivers, one of only three Jazz musicians ever known to play the bagpipes, would probably call himself a saxophonist, but his forte is really an amazing musical dexterity that has helped him master a dozen other instruments. 

 

April 2 – The Topcats

Inducted into the Louisiana music hall of fame in 2005, The Topcats have been performing together for over 25 years.  The Topcats have been recipients of numerous awards from Gambit, Offbeat, and New Orleans magazine for being one of the best bands in the city. Don’t miss this night of fun jam-packed music you want to hear. For more info please visit thetopcats.com.

 

April 9 – The New Orleans Mystics

Buy your tickets early so you will not miss this show featuring the music of Motown.  Songs from the Temptations, O’Jays, Marvin Gaye and Otis Redding will all be part of this soulful tribute to some of the greatest music from the 1970’s.

 

April 16 – Paul Soniat

The Garden’s own, singer/songwriter Paul Soniat, will perform his original songs, which always entertain and engage the audience. He is sure to have some new songs, so grab your mint julep and get ready for an enjoyable evening.

For more info please visit paulsoniat.com.

 

April 23 – Special Outdoor Concert – Threadhead Thursday

Pre-Jazz Fest concert on the outdoor Robert B. Haspel stage featuring bands supported by the Threadhead Foundation. For more info please visit:   www.threadheadrecords.com.

 

April 30 – Garden Party Concert

This outdoor concert series takes place on the Robert B. Haspel Stage located in the New Orleans Botanical Garden.  The series is presented by the Backbeat Foundation with support from the Robert and Shirley Haspel Fund.  Bring your lawn chairs and/or blankets. No outside food or beverages are permitted.

 

About City Park:

City Park: is distinguished by its large menu of sports and recreational activities, attractions for children, and its natural beauty. City Park has a special place in the hearts of generations of New Orleanians and is a must visit for visitors to the city. As a popular place to picnic, play a favorite sport, wander through its gardens or take a boat ride- the park receives millions of visitors each year. It is located in the heart of the city and is the largest recreation area for the entire metropolitan area. Attractions include: City Putt, New Orleans Botanical Garden, Storyland fairytale playground, the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, and numerous athletic venues. The 1,300 acres of parkland provide enjoyment for young children playing on our playgrounds and walkers, joggers, and bicyclists winding through the park’s streets and trails.

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January 8 – New Orleans Banjos + 2

A fun loving group of four banjos, upright bass, and piano will perform music from the 1920’s when banjos were all the rage. It’s going to be a great evening. Don’t miss it!  For more info please visit neworleansbanjosplus2.com.

 

January 15 – Lars Edegran – Tom Sancton – Topsy Chapman

Pianist Lars Edegran, leader of the New Orleans Ragtime Orchestra, teams up with world renowned clarinetist Tom Sancton  and vocalist Topsy Chapman for a fun evening of toe- tapping New Orleans music.   For more info please visit tomsancton.com.

 

January 22 – Bobby Cure and The Poppa Stoppas

Join us for a rocking good evening as we travel back in time with Bobby Cure to the Doo-Wop days of the 1950’s when the Moon was Blue, and the question of the day was, Why Do Fools Fall In Love? For more info please visit bobbycure.com.

 

January 29 – The Yat Pack

The Yat Pack is a New Orleans based band modeled on the 60’s Vegas Swing Era.

They will perform classic big band numbers by Frank Sinatra, Louis Prima, Dean Martin, and Bobby Darin as well as contemporary artists like Michael Bublé, Billy Joel, and Harry Connick, Jr. They will also mix in a heavy dose of good old New Orleans R&B. For more info please visit theyatpack.com.

Filed Under: More Great Posts! Tagged With: city park, concerts, music, New Orleans, thursday

Plan to Attend The Bayou Boogaloo May 15, 16, 17 in 2015

October 26, 2014 by Charlie London

2015-boogaloo

 

More at http://thebayouboogaloo.com

 

GET INVOLVED –> http://thebayouboogaloo.com

 

GET INVOLVED –> http://thebayouboogaloo.com

 

GET INVOLVED –> http://thebayouboogaloo.com

 

 

Filed Under: Featured Tagged With: 2015, art, bayou boogaloo, boogaloo, environmentalism, faubourg st john, festival, mid-city, music, New Orleans, party

Comiskey Park to Host Mid-City Art Market Sept 20th

August 24, 2014 by Charlie London

by Charlie London | photos supplied by Mid City Art Market

Comiskey Park is located on Jefferson Davis Parkway near Tulane Avenue. On Saturday, September 20th, Comiskey Park will host all manner of artistic endeavors when the Mid City Art Market begins at NOON and runs until 5 p.m. at 600 South Jefferson Davis Parkway at D’Hemecourt.

art-carnival sculpture1art-carnival sculpture2
jamaican-trucknola-girl-food-truckNot only will there be art and sculpture but, the creative juices will also be flowing from the food trucks nearby. Johnny’s Jamican Grill and Nola Girl Food Trucks will be on hand to display their awesome entrees and feed the hungry participants.

maggie-belleIf that isn’t enough for you to mark the Mid-City Art Market on your calendar, consider that Maggie Belle will also be there to entertain you with her musical awesomeness.

Over 30 artists will be at the Mid-City Art Market on Saturday, September 20th from noon to 5 p.m. at 600 South Jefferson Davis Parkway in New Orleans. Looking for more information or want to be a vendor? Write to [email protected].

A sample of the work of a few of the many artists that will be in Comiskey Park on September 20th is below. Click on any photo for more:

art-stanleys custom creations1

Stacey-Kerryart-JEMBeadArt1art-JEMBeadArt2pizza-people
 

art-carnival sculpture1art-stanleys custom creations2art-carnival sculpture2

Click on any of the artists in the list below for more information about them. This is a list of just a few of the many artists so far in no particular order. Look for more soon!

Gamache Designs
.L’ATELIER PIROSKA
Heathergreyart
Lasdesigns
jembeadart
Peter McInerny Murphy
Cowden’s Collection and Cowden’s Bee Sweet Honey
ari plants
Whiskey Blues Upcycle
orleans originals
Rustik NOLA
Fig Party
Lizano’s Glass Haus, Inc.
CMk Pottery
Ju Ju Joint Venture
Carnival Sculpture
MJM Images
Mid City Mod
stanleys custom creations
madd darling
Still Waters Jewelry
Art By Crystale
Jeffinetly Studios/ Studio K
la la land art
pieces and patterns
Awesome-Ness Creations
Shae Shea
Jill Hruska Art
Light World
Joshua Lee Studio
Gaylia Wagner Design
Painted Soul Productions
Kristen Seneca
Mary Moises
Jeffrey Cappell
Stacey Kerry

 


Over 30 artists will be at the Mid-City Art Market on Saturday, September 20th from noon to 5 p.m. at 600 South Jefferson Davis Parkway in New Orleans. Looking for more information or want to be a vendor? Write to [email protected].

The art by Judy DiGeorge pictured below will be available at the
Mid City Art Market on September 20th.

 

 

bracelet dots-1-JudyDiGeorgeclock1-JudyDiGeorgenecklace-elephant1-JudyDiGeorgebracelet-cicada-JudyDiGeorge

Filed Under: Featured Tagged With: art, art market, comiskey, food, fun, jeff davis, mid-city, music, New Orleans

Bodacious Boogaloo

May 18, 2014 by Charlie London

photos by Charlie London
boogaloo-logoboogaloocrowd2014may16The 2014 Bayou Boogaloo is one of the best ever. Perfect weather and great fun… The 2014 Bayou Boogaloo is bodacious!

 

http://thebayouboogaloo.com/

boogaloo2014-boatsonbayou

bodacious-boogaloo2014
boogaloo-tree2014may17
orleansstage-tree2014may17-facebook
boogaloo-tree4web-2014may16

 

 

https://fsjna.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/band2-boogaloo-2014may16.mp4


by Charlie London | https://fsjna.org | http://katrinafilm.com

2014bayouboogalooposter-websiteSince the beginning, the Bayou Boogaloo, held on the banks of Bayou St. John in New Orleans during May, has had a mission to give back to the community. The first Bayou Boogaloo in 2006 was a healing effort for the community. Many folks were still rebuilding their lives and their houses after “the storm”. The Bayou Boogaloo was a welcome respite from the daily grind. It provided much needed fun for both adults and children.

One of the often forgotten aspects of the Bayou Boogaloo is its emphasis on zero impact on the environment. I’ve personally witnessed the meticulous cleanup after the event. One would never know the music festival ever took place because the area is left as clean or cleaner than it was before the event.

The Bayou Boogaloo has promoted solar energy, recycling and encouraged folks to consider the environment. The Bayou Boogaloo has led by example. Several huge oak trees have been planted along the banks of Bayou St. John leaving a lasting positive impact on the environment and the community.

The Bayou Boogaloo gives back in other ways too! The event helps neighborhood organizations raise funds for their operations, has helped build playgrounds, has supported community sports initiatives, helped plant native habitat-building and erosion-preventing marsh grasses, and replaced trees lost during hurricanes.

The City even recognized the Bayou Boogaloo’s founder, Jared Zeller, with a proclamation for promoting an economically and environmentally sustainable event.

Join the Bayou Boogaloo this Friday, Saturday and Sunday May 16-18. The Bayou Boogaloo is more than just a music festival, it’s a community building coalition!

BAYOU BOOGALOO Art Market:
https://fsjna.org/2014/03/bayou-boogaloo-art-market/

BAYOU BOOGALOO Music:
https://fsjna.org/2014/03/bayou-boogaloo-music-lineup-released/

BAYOU BOOGALOO Poster:
https://fsjna.org/2014/05/2014-bayou-boogaloo-poster/

https://fsjna.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/hulahoop-boogaloo-2014may17.mp4

 

Filed Under: More Great Posts! Tagged With: art, bayou, bayou boogaloo, boogaloo, faubourg st john, festival, fun, louisiana, mid-city, music, New Orleans

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