A Locals' Story: Hurricane Katrina and Living below Sea Level

Hi! My name is Leanne and I am a 6th generation New Orleanian. That means my triple G (great X3) grandpa came and settled in New Orleans in the early 1800's, a family history that runs back about 200 yrs. I really love New Orleans, I know I am so lucky to have my roots so deep in these swampy soils so many people and critters have been blessed to call home. For instance a secondline parade just rolled down my street yesterday with brass bands and thousands of people from a tradition that started in the early 1700's. And it's not Mardi Gras! :-) I'd love to tell you about it! And bring you to my family tomb in my neighborhood cemetery and give you a tour of my home through a historic shotgun home. My ancestors are tied into the rich food traditions of New Orleans; from my triple G grandpa selling boudin out of his Creole cottage window in the bywater in the 1860's to today at our local Frey family restaurant. I'm local through and through and that's why I wanna tell you all about this amazing city. I started giving swamp tours at the Science and Nature Center in high school and college. I've been giving tours for 20 years! Serving in West Africa for Peace Corps I learned even more intimately about the Central and West African ties to this city. It was there I learned the real story behind Voodoo and Gombo. During Hurricane Katrina, my house got 13 feet of water and my neighborhood is only about 40% rebuilt today. I talk about what's real and what's legend from a very local perspective. I have a passion for people, culture, my family history and having a great time with you in the Big Easy! I given hundreds of tours to thousands of people all over the city and working for myself it never gets old. This city on any day has something totally unique to share. Ive toured school groups, volunteers, business groups and travelers from around the world! I love people and I guarantee you will fall in love with my city and probably me too! ;-) But that's what New Orleans is all about, being real, friendly, taking it easy and letting the good times just roll. You'll meet strangers who become lifelong friends and this city will become your second home and Marie Laveaux makes sure people have to come back again and again and again! I hope to be a part of your New Orleans experience! - Tour guide license - Louisiana Master Naturalist