Even a passing shower at sunset can slow down tourism traffic and leave a carriage driver waiting for a fare on a pleasant fall night in front of Jackson Square in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Notice the JAX sign in the background -- the converted old brewery is mostly empty -- a few of signs lights are missing -- probably caused from Hurricane Gustav's nearby passage earlier this year.
One fun thing to do, down in Jackson Square in New Orleans, is to get a caricature made. Why not? Laugh at yourself and the whole world becomes joyful -- even on rain doused streets.
The rain has passed, it is time to strike up the band and draw in a crowd. This scene was this past Black Friday in front of St. Louis Cathredal in the French Quarter of New Orleans. The Quarter was holding its own on competing with the malls, until a shower passed. However, as the evening dimmed, only rain-soaked stones were left as a reminder. The day crowd was giving way to the night time revelers.
A pair of street musicians were playing jazz tunes to passers-by.
Strike up the band. Draw near the crowd.
--steve buser
