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Recession Fails To Dim Mardi Gras Revelry

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 25, 2009

NEW ORLEANS - The economic downturn couldn't overshadow the Mardi Gras revelry Tuesday as partiers jostled for beads on parade routes and the French Quarter swelled with boozy fun and masked crowds.

Many revelers turned the tables on the recession, dressing in costumes riffing on bailouts and the stimulus package.

The celebration was marred by violence after police said at least six people - including an infant - were shot on St. Charles Avenue, a historic parade route where families traditionally gather. None of the injuries appeared to be life-threatening, and the celebrations went on.

Suzanne Gravener, a 59-year-old New Orleans teacher, dressed as the Statue of Liberty - without a crown. That, she joked, had to be sold for cash because of the hard times. Her husband lost his job as a dairy salesman.

The Associated Press

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