Wednesday
The French Quarter proves a study in contrasts.
   

Saint Charles Avenue's seen better days.
The old Astor's lookin fine.
Well, sorta?
We're beginning at the Cafe Du Monde, natch.
This baby's conducting her own love affair with N'awlins jazz...
Crowded? Ain't nothin' like it gets in the afternoon.
Bliss. Beignets and coffee like no other.
Carriages line up in Jackson Square
Sandwiched between Cola-pushing umbrellas and a discordant skyline.
At the base of the cathedral
locals play Dixieland jazz and a little Broadway too.
Speaking of local color? This is Royal Street.
They're too mesmerized to see there's nothing in that hand...
A few brave ones get some goodies.
About that local color? They shore am big down heah.
Some streets glow with perfection.
Renovations abound.
Just So We Know Washington Cares
But, um, FEMA, the Quarter wasn't damaged?
The locals have their own opinions