I am writing you to let you know of our situation here in the French Quarter. I am an entertainer who works at one of the bars here in the Quarter and have not worked in a bar since before the quarantine happened. I am fortunate to have friends who have tipped me in my virtual drag show since this is our new reality. Some are still working while some are unemployed and all are very generous. I am truly blessed.
I am writing on behalf of musicians and artists who are in the same situation as me and have been performing on a porch. After talking to some, they like me, feel like there is only so much longer we can count on this.
I am writing not only on the behalf of waiters, waitresses, bartenders, busers, cooks, and dishwashers who love what they do and go to work to not only support themselves but their families as well. They love what they do and also love the French Quarter.
I am writing on behalf of restauranteurs who's landlords would not give them a break on their rent and had to close. I am writing on behalf of restaurant owners who are struggling to stay afloat without tourism's support.
I am writing on behalf of friend's who have businesses in the French Quarter and owns other (s) in the burbs that financially support the one in the French Quarter and care about the Quarter.
I am writing on behalf of businesses who supply a service to us who live in the French Quarter and need the tourism financial support.
I am writing on behalf of our tourist who like to visit and spend their money in our bars, restaurants, hotels and guest houses. While some of these companies may be corporately owned, they employ desk people, maids, door men, concierges, etc.
I am writing on behalf our tourist commission and sales people. One of my friends who was in sales this week got furloughed after she fought to sell during all of this pandemic
I go to Metairie and Kenner where other than people wearing masks, businesses seem normal and are thriving.
I listened to one of your public addresses the other day and other than telling us of all the things that we have overcame, I heard nothing of a plan. We need something to look forward to. We need hope and we need our lives restored in someway. I am like so many others who are tired, lethargic and depressed. I try to focus on the positives because I am blessed.
With all of this being said, I know that you are our leader and must have concerns after what happened at Mardi Gras and St. Patrick's Day. I wanted you to know that some of us are adults and will continue to wear our masks - law or not.
I am worried for us and am worried for my French Quarter.
Thank you,
A concerned resident of the French Quarter.