NEW ORLEANS, Feb. 22 (UPI) -- Revelers arrived in New Orleans for next week's Mardi Gras festivities, but the most popular souvenirs are about Hurricane Katrina's destruction.
Not far from the French Quarter, much of the city looks as if the Aug. 29 storm happened only days ago, with derelict, flood-stained houses and buildings are covered in mold, some shifted off their foundations by floodwaters, and the rest awaiting demolition or repair.
On Bourbon Street, the neon signs are lit and the "daiquiri-to-go" stands are open. Shop owners told ABC News that while the crowds have been growing, fewer people are celebrating so far, compared to past years.
The New Orleans Times Picayune's Web site, Nola.com, offers live camera views online in the run-up to Tuesday's celebration of Mardi Gras, including a view of the Bourbon Street district on the BourboCam, and three others covering parades, bead-tossing and views of the French Quarter.
