Tourism commercial prompts apology and where to wear masks

The Lunch Line: Tourism commercial prompts apology and where to wear masks

By Bob Warren

Wait? Where? The state indoor mask mandate is no more. Except in some schools. And maybe in New Orleans. Confused as to where you’re supposed to wear them? Here’s a quick rundown.

And here’s what’s happening in the schools. Please stay tuned for more coverage on this later today.

Removal and apology: A recent TV commercial touting New Orleans tourism has sparked a fair amount of criticism – and an apology. The spot featured very few Black faces, which some viewers said was hardly reflective of the city. It's no longer running. “Valid criticism,” says a higher-up with New Orleans and Co., which commissioned the advertisement.

Resting in splendor: People of a certain vintage might recall the TV show “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.” Contributing writer John Pope offers a fascinating variation on that theme today. Metairie Cemetery, he writes, is where the rich and famous have traditionally gone to repose in splendor.

And here's more from John on area cemeteries.

Feeding the Oktoberfest crowd: Nobody should chicken dance on an empty stomach. Our ace dining writer Ian McNulty checks in today with a story about the crew that's feeding the hungry Oktoberfest-goers at the Deutsches Haus in New Orleans.

Bad weather ahead: And batten down the hatches (what else would one do with them?). We’re expecting some rough weather to pass over later today. Heavy rain and wind, maybe a tornado. Stay safe, friends.

Hope you enjoyed the Lunch Line. Thanks for taking a break with us today.

BW