Mardi Gras, anyone?

A couple nights ago, Jay and I were discussing how Mardi Gras would be affected by the hurricane. It's about six months away and I think New Orleans ought to get a move on it and get ready for the parades. It would be a great income generator for them.

Mardi Gras is enormous even by this city's standards. In 2001, more than 1,000 floats, 500 marching bands and 135,000 people paraded through the streets. One university study estimates the celebration brings in $1 billion a year to New Orleans.

Jay thinks it's pretty iffy whether they'd be ready for the festivities, but I think it's possible. I think a lot of people would be willing to check out the new and improved New Orleans. Not only would it bring them some money, but don't you think it would be a great way to get people's spirits up? Imagine what a celebration it would be after reclaiming your city.