3/13/18
Today was our second day in New Orleans, Louisiana on our Missouri State University Bear Breaks Immersion Trip. As the day went on, we participated in a wide array of activities, both immersing ourselves within the culture in addition to getting hands on experience with community revitalization.
Green Light Rain Barrels
Local artists and volunteers paint Green Light’s rain barrels; these barrels revitalize the community with bright colors, staggering patterns, and uplifting images in residents’ yards. Even though I am not an artist, I found myself challenged in getting to design & paint a rain barrel; with Emily’s help, we were able to paint a beautiful rain barrel with Mardi Gras masks and beads! I felt such a sense of prideful accomplishment upon seeing my handiwork and knowing it would be used for such a beneficial purpose…and who does not like brightening a space?
Global Green
The next instance of community revitalization we delved into was through Global Green…though this was not an active role for us, it still was intriguing to learn about the 9th district of New Orleans and what this organization is attempting to do. A few homes in this area are built green i.e. are environmentally friendly and energy efficient-an awesome idea but seemingly expensive. We will see what people think of to combat the high costs of homes.
Food
The dessert at Café Daphne was insatiably delectable. The appetizers at the local Lebanese Café took me out of my comfort zone but were surprisingly good.
Pelicans-NBA Team, Not the Bird
I witnessed my first NBA game today-it was a close game…yet, we won! Very cool.
Established Connections
I want to mention how happy I am with this trip. The group of people I have been getting to know are amazing in and of themselves. We have already grown close. This aspect, as well as those of community revitalization, are painting my mind as I experience NOLA.
-Summer Holmes