Heading (even more) south

As I believe I alluded to in a previous post, I will be moving to New Orleans this summer. I will be starting a Master’s program, and I couldn’t be more excited about my new academic opportunties and my new residence. I will be living in Uptown, and walking to class each day, but I feel sure I will also be experiencing other diverse parts of the city on a regular basis. I’ve visited New Orleans a number of times during my undergraduate experience since it’s not too far from Ole Miss, but living there is sure to open my eyes to a completely different city than ones I’ve lived in before. New Orleans, to me, resembles the Carribean more than continental United States, and its fascinating history make it completely unlike the rest of the South. In the spirit of my excitement, I wanted to list a few of the things that I’m looking forward to.

FOOD

I know this doesn’t come as a surprise since everyone talks about the unique cuisine of New Orleans, but I’m not quite as interested in the traditional, heavy Cajun food (except on occasion) as I am in farmer’s markets, local and quirky restaurants, cute cafes, and more ethnic cuisine choices. Though Oxford, MS has a pretty good array of those options for a town, the variety is much more diverse in New Orleans, and it seems on every block there is an interesting place I need to try. I’ve become very interested in eating locally and more healthfully in the last couple of years. I think living in New Orleans will increase my interest and commitment to these habits.

MUSIC

Again, it’s typical that I’m excited about the music, but seriously, it’s New Orleans. I have festivals, local musicians, and parades to anticipate. I hope I can take full advantage of some of the abundant opportunities to enjoy music in this city.

ART

To finish today’s list (though I’m sure there will be a continuation), New Orleans’ affinity for the visual arts is something I’m looking forward to exploring. Perusing artists’ galleries and special displays are activities I can see myself doing quite often on weekends.

As I said, I’ll add to this list as it expands. I have so much on my mind right now as I prepare to move. My last four years in Oxford have been wonderful, but I can’t wait to explore New Orleans for the next few years!

 

Wetland restoration: Environmental issues closer to home

I read this article today:

 http://tulane.edu/news/newwave/040411_katrina_hearts.cfm?utm_content=awesm-publisher&utm_medium=riptide.me-email&utm_source=twitter.com

It is an interview with an activist for wetland restoration in Louisiana. As someone interested in environmental conservation in Latin America, it is good for me to remember that there are issues I can be involved in  close to home. ALL regions of the world have environmental issues, and to deem one region more important is questionable at best.  I understand that regions like the Amazon (which my undergraduate thesis focuses on) can be powerful hotspots for mainstream activism, but those who are truly interested in conservation have to remember the places close to home!

Also-this is going to be really close to home soon, as I’m going to be in New Orleans for the next two years at least!! (details to come)