Parasol’s is closing.

Parasol’s is a bar/restaurant in the Garden District of New Orleans owned by a good friend of mine, Jeff Carreras. It’s actually more of a dive, really. But a good one. It’s the center for all activities during St. Patrick’s week in New Orleans. It’s the neighborhood place. It’s where no matter when I went, I knew someone there, and there was always a few hugs hug and some “dahlin’s” for me. Where else but Parasol’s would my wedding picture be on the website and behind the bar? Where else would be the best place in New Orleans to get a roast beef poboy? I’ve spent many a St Patrick’s Day, Saint Joseph’s day and Saint Kim and Gregory days at this fine establishment. Gregory and I eloped but had our “vow renewal/real  NOLA wedding/party” there. And now, it will be just another memory.

But new memories are to be made, and as Gregory would say, better days ahead. Jeff and company are moving to another location, larger and nicer, and the tradition that is Parasol’s will continue. I don’t think New Orleans knows any other way. Rebirth and rebuild. On August 29th, which incidentally is the 5th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina’s landfall along the Gulf Coast, there will be a second line from Parasol’s on the corner of Third and Constance to the new location. As there should be. Taking the old memories to the new and showing it how it’s done. And you better believe that this girl is gonna do her best to be in that number, and will surely be there for St Patrick’s Day 2011.

The best memories I have of Parasol’s though ? They’ll live forever …..

Laissez Lez Bon Temps Roulez y’all….

Oilfield Trash.

It’s a nickname for those that work in the oil business. It’s been around since I was a kid, and I’ve never heard it used in anger or to put down someone. For many in Louisiana, Texas and Mississippi, being called that is an honor. Some of the finest people I have ever known wore that moniker proudly.

Eleven people are still missing and presumed dead after a rig explosion in the Gulf of Mexico earlier this week.

Please take a minute and keep them, their families and friends in your thoughts, your prayers, and your way of communicating with your higher power.

Oilfield Trash keeps this country moving.

Oilfield Trash makes it possible for you to go on vacation, to the grocery store, to take your kids to the ball field.

No matter your opinion on offshore drilling, the environment, the politics of oil or politics in general, it all boils down to the working man (and woman).

If you know someone who can wear the title of Oilfield Trash, hug their neck and thank them. They deserve it.