Opening Night
On the evening of Mon., Sept. 24, the city will get rowdy. That’s because it’s the Saints’ home opener against the Tennessee Titans. The game starts at 7:30 p.m. at the Superdome. Even those who don’t have tickets to get inside the ‘Dome will show up outside for tailgating and other festivities. If you choose to stay in and watch it – though we recommend at least catching it from a neighborhood bar or getting together with friends – the game will be broadcasted live on ESPN’s Monday Night Football.
Information, 731-1700, www.neworleanssaints.com.














Justice for All
Through Sept. 16, the Contemporary Arts Center is hosting “Civil Rights Now,” bringing together a variety of artists whose work addresses the ongoing effort to establish American social justice. The exhibition is dedicated to Oretha Castle Haley who fought to end segregation and to advance civil rights in New Orleans. Contributing artists to the exhibit include Willie Birch, Jeffrey Cook, Joe Minter, Martin Payton and others who pay tribute to the historical events, people and issues that defined the struggle leading up to the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Information, 528-3805, www.cacno.org.

Making Strides
On Sept. 29, Audubon Park will be a gathering place for breast cancer survivors and those who wish to honor and celebrate them. The American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk hopes to unite the community as well as educate women about early detection and prevention. Making Strides will also raise money to fund research and support programs to accelerate progress against the disease. The walk begins at 8 a.m. and continues through the afternoon. Those who are interested in showing support while getting some fresh air and exercise can start a team, join a team or walk individually.
Information, 800-ACS-2345,  www.cancer.org/stridesonline.


Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk, Sept. 29







When the Levees Break
Now more than two years post-Katrina, residents of the city still wonder about the government’s response to the hurricane. As New Orleans filled with water, those who were left behind fought for survival. The Breach, the latest mainstage production at Southern Rep tells heartwrenching stories of life during the aftermath. The play is written by Catherine Filloux, Tarell McCraney and Joe Sutton, who weave together two stories of life following the disaster, along with that of a reporter who discovers that levee breaches and government negligence aren’t exactly new developments in New Orleans.
Information, 522-6545, www.southernrep.com.

Celebrate Lakeview!
Lakeview will be buzzing with activity Sept. 16 when Lakeview Fest commences at noon at the St. Dominic School Yard on Harrison Avenue. The event will feature local music, food, a silent auction, crafts, children’s booths and a rebuilding contractor expo inside the gym.

Adding to the excitement, the Saints vs. Tampa Bay road game will be shown on a big screen television, followed by musical performances by the Top Cats and the Bucktown All Stars. Lakeview Fest is run by the nonprofit Lakeview Civic Improvement Association and funds raised will benefit the lake area and support the flood-damaged neighborhood. First responders to the area post-Katrina will also be honored. The event is free and open to the public.
Information, 324-2270, www.lakeviewcivic.org.

A Lovely Soiree
The Besthoff Sculpture Garden (adjacent to the New Orleans Museum of Art) has been a favored spot for years, with five acres of footpaths, lagoons, trees hung with Spanish moss and lovely works of art. However, the sculpture garden was damaged by Hurricane Katrina and needs locals’ help to restore it back to its original beauty. On Sept. 28, there’s a chance to help with this effort: “Love in the Garden” is a party that will fête guests dining under the romantic Louisiana evening sky. Food will be provided by over 30 different restaurants while guests will be serenaded by a 12 piece orchestra. Funds raised at the soiree will further benefit the restoration of the garden.
Information, 658-4121, www.noa.org/lovetickets.html.