New Orleans adapts to the ‘new normal’
Hurricane Katrina stole much of New Orleans’ physical distinction, but it couldn’t kill its spirit, rhythm or soul. The changes wrought by storm and flooding have brought an indecision that lingers for some, but life goes on for others in what many here call the “new normal.”
Emblematic scenes such as Mardi Gras’ second-line music and dance parades and the crowds drawn to the springtime Jazz & Heritage Festival were a reassuring sight after the horror of the storm.
For the record:
12:00 a.m. Sept. 1, 2006 For The Record
Los Angeles Times Friday September 01, 2006 Home Edition Main News Part A Page 2 National Desk 0 inches; 20 words Type of Material: Correction
New Orleans: A photo caption that ran in Section A on Tuesday identified the New Orleans neighborhood Treme as Tremaine.
Visitors are returning to popular tourist areas, such as the French Quarter and downtown central business district, that were largely spared heavy damage or flooding. Many bars and nightclubs in these neighborhoods are back in full swing.
School officials also have been busy trying to lure children back to the classroom. More than 40 public schools are scheduled to open by mid-September, with space for more than 30,000 students. Although opening dates might change because of damage to school buildings, a shortage of qualified teachers, and a degree of administrative confusion, education officials say they are confident that the New Orleans education system, troubled before Katrina, has a chance at rebirth, alongside the city.
Children have been among the most traumatized victims of the storm. Their anxiety and depression, medical professionals say, is reflected in the behavioral problems that some adolescents have had since Katrina.
But many youngsters have shown remarkable resilience. And while their elders tackle the challenge of rebuilding, they have continued to make merry amid the destruction and desolation.
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(A1) A city’s unfinished journey
When Hurricane Katrina burst New Orleans’ levees one year ago, it left about 1,500 people dead, wiped out 100,000 homes and reduced vibrant neighborhoods to twisted debris.
The city is still struggling to bounce back. Some residents remain too overwhelmed to start over. Some can’t afford to, and the wait for federal assistance fills them with doubt.
On the upside, many residents are repairing their property, and returning tourists have French Quarter bars and clubs packed and jumping.
The city’s restoration may be slow, but it’s sure. Maybe that’s because its residents are made of tougher stuff than those levees. Pages A10-13
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