icahnographs

NO-ACTS

2010-06-15T12:34:00.001-07:00

NO-ACTS: New Orleans Aspen Canine Transfer and Services

-- No act of kindness is ever too small --

"You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Mission One: Mardi Gras pups to the Mountains

- They have homes but just need help getting there!

New Orleans’ “Dogs of the 9^thWard” saved 11 pups from under a house during Mardi Gras (hence their name). Until recently there were three little ladies left with no fosters or forever homes in their future.

Thanks to wonderful folks of ARF – Colorado though, these three girls are going to great places in Aspen.

While we plan on finding less expensive methods of transport for future trips, these sisters are flying Continental Cargo at $215 per pup, plus fees for travel documentation. Any little bit can help!!

If you want to contribute please message or email me at noacts@gmail.com with your email address and the amount you would like to give. I will then send you an email via PayPal through which you can send the funds.

Thanks so much!!

Please read more about NO-ACTS below.

While one city is nestled beneath majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains, and the other is built along the mighty Mississippi, Aspen and New Orleans have formed quite a compassionate connection over the last few years.

Since 2005, when Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, Aspen has routinely helped the Crescent City rebuild. Fundraisers have been held almost every season in the mountain-town to help preserve part of the city’s soul – it’s music. There have been many other cases of kindness too, such as taking in abandoned dogs in the aftermath of the storm. Now, NO-ACTS is hoping to extend this friendship indefinitely to our four-legged canine companions.

New Orleans is currently overwhelmed with the amount of neglected, abused, and abandoned animals. Numbers of strays, feral dog packs, and unwanted pets continue to rise, and the number of fosters and individuals wanting to give rescues “forever” homes seems to have fallen. There appears to be a light at the end of this tunnel though, and that is providing these innocent victims with new beginnings out West.

While there are numerous animals in-need everywhere, including those already in Aspen and its surrounding areas, it is wonderful that residents of the Aspen Valley currently seem more available to open their homes to New Orleans’ rescued canines. It is the hope of NO-ACTS that, when in pressing times, this transfer can occur.

Just over one year ago, New Orleans native, Kelly Gaus, formed a rescue group called Dogs of the 9th Ward. The small grassroots organization has saved and placed nearly 60 dogs, and continues to grow on a daily basis.

Guas currently houses all rescued dogs at her home in the Ninth Ward. Each day she is made aware of numerous cases about dogs that need help, but simply does not have the resources to save each and every one.

Her hope is to eventually create a facility with innovative boarding, fostering and rehabilitation services, but raising the necessary funds is a timely process. For now, she is trying to find homes for the dogs she can save so she can continue rescuing more.

NO –ACTS Initiatives:

Find secure, safe and consistent modes of transport for dogs from New Orleans to Aspen
Raise proceeds for transfer
Develop and fund humane education and pet responsibility programs for rescue groups such as Dogs of the 9^th Ward and ARF Colorado
Hold annual fundraisers that will support not only NO-ACTS but participating rescue groups as well, such as ARF Colorado and Dogs of the 9^th Ward

In these photos are the three sisters heading West: Shangri La, Iris, and Muses.

Loving NOLA and being patient at the Prince of Wales 2nd Line

2009-10-22T10:18:00.000-07:00

Nearly two weeks ago now, I went to the Prince of Wales 2nd line. It snaked along Uptown streets, starting and ending at the Rock Bottom Lounge and crossing Magazine twice. The pink and green uniforms blazed in contrast to a gray sky, and the sweet blast of New Orleans' brass music summoned onlookers to join in. Leading the way was a float carrying their queen-who sparkled in all white-and several other ladies looking striking in bright orange. It drew a crowd of their own, I'm sure. While the group of followers seemed small at first, by the time we turned left on Louisiana Ave the dancing crowd swelled over the median.

Several breaks along the way included stopping at The Sandpiper Lounge and, my most favorite of all, right in front of the renowned Commander's Palace. The narrow block of Washington Avenue between the front window's of the very upscale, nearly infamous restaurant and the wall of the well known Lafayette Cemetery No 1 was packed with paraders at the peak of performing.

The clouds had followed us all day, and by the time we arrived the wind was increasing as well. I was glad I was packing two large garbage bags to protect my camera from the downpour I expected any second but the rain continued to hold.

While I wanted to snap away at almost everything, what I usually can't help from doing, I decided to try something different at this second line. I danced along, camera ready, but not looking through its lens. I was seeing the people, embracing the amazing energy, marching to the music, and waiting for those moments. I felt connected, and in a sense more genuine in, and worthy of, capturing what I was experiencing.

I love this city. Thanks NOLA, and all you 2nd liners.

It's Second Line Season

2009-09-09T06:10:00.000-07:00

New Orleans is famous for its unique history and captivating culture. It oozes through the ancient architecture and narrow streets of the French Quarter that still fill with echoes of decadent laughter. Visitors can taste the city’s diverse heritage with a hearty helping of gumbo or oyster po-boy. Locals feel the friendly sense of community when a neighbor waves hello from their front porch across the way. No one can argue though that music plays one of the most instrumental roles in keeping the mesmerizing energy of the city radiating, the traditions alive, and the residents marching with heads held high.

There’s nothing like watching an approaching brass band stomp down the street; to see the twirling crowd dancing towards you getting larger and larger and to hear the screams of howling instruments getting louder and louder. There is an indescribable sense of pride that exudes from all involved: the leader, the followers, the onlookers, the musicians. Before you know it, it has arrived. You can feel the gust of excitement as the players- often dressed in colorful pastels or black, white, and gold-pass by, and become completely captured in the compelling moment so unique to New Orleans.

The music never stops. I followed this summer’s Satchmo Fest 2^nd line. When we hit Esplanade the torrential rain and growling thunder started. Some of the men wore all black suits with gold trim. We were a couple blocks in from Rampart and the leader cued for them to stop walking as part of the parade. They stood tall, drenched from head to toe, carrying the weight of their soaked suits and instruments but didn’t waver for a beat.

Second line season is here. Below are images from this past Sunday’s Black Men of Labor 2^nd Line.

2009-09-03T14:23:00.000-07:00

Meet Mae Wiggles: poster pup for future change

2009-09-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

The other evening I went to a great little coffee house in Marigny called Sound Cafe to attend a 'meet and greet' session for artists participating in Silence is Violence's Peace Clubs; an expansion of an outreach program it started in 2007. To my surprise, my dog was there

too.

The organization- which works tirelessly to terminate such crime by way of teaching alternative expression and advocating positive community participation - has recently partnered respected New Orleans artists with schools throughout the city where they will turn their passion, talent and trades into new forms of communication for their students. I started documenting the clubs and will launch a blog dedicated to the project in a few days. It's so exciting working with such inspiring individuals and on such a meaningful assignment.

As the meeting was wrapping up, I turned and noticed a DOGS OF THE 9TH WARD (scroll down to read my earlier post) flyer with a familiar face posted on the bulletin board behind me. There she was; the fawn colored, white nosed pit bull (most likely mixed with something else) pup I adopted nearly a month ago.

I quickly stood up from my seat to take a closer look. The small piece of paper had the same 'make you melt' picture and gutting story from Kelly's blog that catapulted me into this new chapter of my life: a dog owner living in New Orleans, once again.

Mae (she was previously called Amber) was found running the streets with a pack of aggressive ferrals searching for food. She was -and still is- sweet as can be, but plagued with severe skin problems and other health issues. I had just started helping D9 when I received a voicemail inquiring whether I could foster this little mutt in need. While there were several things that made me weary of doing so: the responsibility, my non-structured schedule, and lack of funds - to name a few, I did it it anyways. I decided to foster her.

I told myself when I first moved down here, "NO DOGS!" I had adopted Jenga, a voluptuous, beautiful black lab/pit mix and Cassy, an ethereal Cate Blanchett creature of the K-9 world, when I was an undergrad at Tulane - they are now living the dream with my mom in Colorado- but now I really needed to focus on a career and establishing myself here.

After meeting Mae at Prytania Vet where she was boarding however, I gained a new perspective. Besides trying to help the overwhelming unwanted and stray animal problem in New Orleans, the term 'foster' lingered in my head. I could foster. It's temporary. Right? Wrong.

My mom new this from the moment I explained the situation to her. "So, you got a new dog." She said laughing.

At 40+lbs, seven months and teething, times with Mae have gotten interesting and unpredictable. Things I could never possibly imagine as a chew toy have gotten destroyed by her.

There is also an entirely new culture of pet ownership and how the public perceives pit bulls I am experiencing.

I understand and respect not everyone wants a pet; and that many individuals don't even really care for animals. I, however, have always been an animal lover and an advocate for humane treatment towards all living creatures. I can't stand needless suffering and try to do everything not to participate in, or promote, it in anyway.

Without going much further into this arena - for right now - I think many of the horrific stories we hear of violent acts and mistreatment towards both people and non-humans branches back to deep routed ignorance and lack of respect for quality of life for oneself and others. The experiences one has lived often coinciding or

leading to such crimes are those many of us can't even imagine. It is never too late though to realize there are other ways of life.

I think humane education, and teaching alternative expression through art or other avenues (especially for our youth) is vital to the future of communities and welfare for all living things. It is something you will read more about on this blog in the near future.

The other day I was taking Mae for our morning walk. We went around the block in our usual counterclockwise direction. She sniffed her usual spots where the neighbor's dogs play, and wagged her tail starring into the wind as she usual does.

As we passed the African American Museum just around the corner from my apartment, two little kids stood across the street mesmerized by her. Maybe it was her clumsy gallop, flopping pink tongue or flapping ears, but they couldn't stop watching Mae's every move. Their mom had to tug on their arms to continue walking.

"You can pet her." I said coiling up her leash a little more. I was going to cross over to them. "Oh no. We don't do pets." The mom responded.

I started to walk on, not thinking much other than, 'oh well.' But then she called back, "Dogs don't like kids, right?" I turned back with Mae in tow, smiled and told her that's not true: That many dogs love children, quite often more than adults since they are more fun and 'on their level.' That I grew up with dogs, German Shepherds for that matter. That one should always be careful, especially with strange dogs, but dogs -when they are not mistreated or made to act otherwise - generally love people. She nodded her head and walked on, appearing to digest all the material.

Many people too are intrigued with Mae because she is a pit . Suddenly everyone is an expert on the breed, including people you'd never expect. I get a lot of looks walking her around my neighborhood; some people are frightened while others are impressed. A lot of people want to stop and talk about her, and in my own way, when the topics are brought up, I try to educate as many individuals as I can about some principles I believe. I tell everyone that she is a rescue, that she is spay, and that she lives indoors (on my couch and loves to cuddle!). Many people wonder if she was a fighter and I say I hope not.

It's small steps right now but important ones, I think.

"Why, this is very midsummer madness."

2009-09-01T19:59:00.000-07:00

Like an unexpected afternoon sprinkle, Midsummer Mardis Gras pleasantly broke up the stagnant cloud of somberness that hung over the city as the four year anniversary of Katrina fell upon us.

News channels, reporters and papers did their best to revisit the killer storm and its devastating aftermath but, as a daily reality for most who live here, the images quotes and sound bites just reminded us of the criminal catastrophe that still lingers in the least expected ways.

Perhaps its an empty lot where a pink house once stood, or a familiar face that doesn't ride the bus anymore; the hurricane forever changed the lives of those who call New Orleans home, and its vast impact still haunts the city.

New Orleans is a special place however, and it's strength and soul continues to burn bright through its residents. The city's mesmerizing legacy of unique culture, mood, and music lives on through the those who returned and those who chose to come here.

Illustrating exactly why there are slogans such as "we put the fun in funeral" selling on signs throughout the city, hundreds gathered on Oak street outside the Maple Leaf last Saturday to celebrate, and march on.

Take a look below.

"Why, this is very midsummer madness"... the images

2009-09-01T18:01:00.000-07:00

Kelly Gaus and the Seven Strays: A Ninth Ward Furry-tail

2009-08-16T09:40:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

I'm living in New Orleans these days and am starting a blog to keep y'all informed about the great things happening here.

Also, I recently adopted a Pit Bull pup through a fantastic dog rescue operation called 'Dogs of the Ninth Ward' I've begun photographing and volunteering with.

Today they are having a fundraiser in the CBD; so if you can make it, come on down.

***

Kelly Gaus and the Seven Strays: A Ninth Ward Furry-tail

I can hear a choir of k-9s barking as I park my car in front of Kelly Gaus' Ninth Ward home. She is the founder of Dogs of the 9th Ward (D9)-a small, yet growing New Orleans dog rescue operation focused on not only the welfare of animals, but on the community as well.
The little nose of Pauline, her most famous find, tries to shift a window curtain out of the way so she can get a better peek at what's going on outside.
I don't even have to knock; Kelly has been well notified of my arrival. There is a bit of comedic commotion coming from inside as she attempts to rearrange her herd of four from blocking the door. I can hear her talking the talk of a loving dog owner, calmly assuring the bunch that it's okay.

The handle turns and a mammoth head (of what I think is the biggest dog I've ever seen) squeezes through the opening. It belongs to Chalmette, one of Kelly's two St. Bernards who was a leftover from a closing puppy mill. I quickly step inside and am warmly greeted by the wiggling and wagging Pit Bull pup Pauline, who Kelly rescued from certain death off the streets and nursed back to health. She is D9s 'poster child.'
While playing with Pauline I get a lovely lick on my hand by Ms. B, a gentle Great Dane that was left on Kelly's front steps with a note attached saying 'I heard you rescue dogs.'
I sit on the floor getting more acquainted with the three girls when suddenly I see a slow, strolling giant emerge from the back of Kelly's colorful shotgun house.
"That's Remy." Remy is the man of the house; a giant St. Bernard that dwarfs Chalmette in size. Kelly found him in Mississippi after Katrina. He was starving, plagued with heart-worm, and full of bullet wounds. One would never imagine his history given how kind and friendly he is. He "puts things in perspective," Kelly says.
With long blond hair and bright blue eyes, Kelly is like an ethereal, female version of Caesar Milan. She was always interested in dogs growing up, especially larger breeds, and spent a good amount of time thumbing through books on various types. Although born in Australia, Kelly grew up in the Ninth Ward near St. Claud since the age of three, and moved to Franklin- closer to the 8th ward- later on. She graduated from Tulane University in 2007 and will start at Law school there this fall.
The area she lives in, and city itself, holds a special place in her heart. "It’s an inspiring place, the 9th ward in particular. It's a combination of people and traditions, and I think it's great that in an area like this, that was so completely devastated by Katrina, everyone is fighting to come back." Like many New Orleanians, she wants to help make her home a better place - and is taking steps to do it.
When she returned to the Ninth Ward in March, she couldn’t help but notice a heartbreaking problem. "There is a huge stray dog population down here, and tons of roaming animals, and I immediately wanted to do something about them."
Sadly, the Ninth Ward has become a dumping ground for unwanted pets by people from other areas of the city. Increasing numbers of strays are seeking their shelter within vacant buildings in close proximity to populated Ninth Ward neighborhoods, where they can more easily forage for food (usually in the form of leftovers and garbage.)
While Kelly wanted to help all the dogs she came across, money was an issue. She simply couldn't afford to rescue the vast number of homeless dogs roaming the streets of her neighborhood.

Pauline's case was different however. When she found her in May, she had to do something. "She looked so horrible when I found her. She had no hair. Her skin was bleeding. She was 6 months old and 15 pounds. I knew she was going to die if I just left her there."
It was from this serendipitous event that D9 was born. After several online posts about Pauline, and an article in the Times Picayune, Kelly received enough donations to enable her to rescue several more dogs. With assistance from Prytania Veterinary Hospital, she is currently getting treatment for three more dogs with various ailments, and has placed them in foster homes throughout the city.
Bart is a six month old Beagle-Lab mix who was born on the streets and followed her home one day. Scout, a German Shepherd, and Basil, a Hound mix, were dumped by their owner at the industrial canal.
Kelly's mission is not only to help abandoned and stray dogs, but to make her community safer by educating residents about responsible pet ownership, humane treatment of animals, and ways to solve this growing problem.

There are several initiatives on the horizon for D9. Kelly is currently working to get her organization 501c3 non-profit status; right now she has been giving all donations to Prytania Vet, which has generously been volunteering their services to treat these newly rescued friends. She also plans to start humane education programs in schools throughout the city, beginning with the MLK Charter in the Lower 9th.
In her mind, people and organizations - especially those working in animal rescue efforts-are more successful working together than alone; "a key piece of what I'm doing is trying to forge positive and productive relationships with the community, other non-profits and animal rescue groups."
This Sunday, D9 will have a fundraiser hosted by New Orleans Dog Nanny in the CBD. From 3p.m.- 7p.m celebrate the Feast of St. Roch (patron saint of dogs) with snowballs, cocktails, treats (both dog and human!), music and much more.

You can contact Kelly through http://dogsofthe9thward.blogspot.com/
and find a map to the fundraiser at neworleansdognanny.com.

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2009-05-14T11:30:00.000-07:00

New Orleans Jazz Fest 2009

2009-05-12T17:58:00.000-07:00

New Orleans Jazz Fest 09

2009-05-12T17:44:00.000-07:00

Those with four legs

2009-05-12T17:43:00.000-07:00

Those with four legs

2009-05-12T17:42:00.000-07:00

Those with four legs

2009-05-12T17:41:00.002-07:00

Those with four legs

2009-05-12T17:41:00.001-07:00

Those with four legs

2009-05-12T17:40:00.000-07:00

Those with four legs

2009-05-12T17:39:00.000-07:00

Those with four legs

2009-05-12T17:37:00.000-07:00

Spain

2009-05-12T17:36:00.000-07:00

Spain

2009-05-12T17:35:00.000-07:00

Spain

2009-05-12T17:34:00.002-07:00

Spain

2009-05-12T17:34:00.001-07:00

Spain

2009-05-12T17:32:00.000-07:00

Misc-people

2009-05-12T17:31:00.000-07:00

Misc-architecture

2009-05-12T17:30:00.000-07:00

Misc-urban landscape

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Misc-landscape

2009-05-12T17:29:00.001-07:00

Greenland

2009-05-12T17:28:00.000-07:00

Greenland

2009-05-12T17:27:00.002-07:00

Greenland

2009-05-12T17:27:00.001-07:00

Greenland

2009-05-12T17:26:00.001-07:00

Greenland

2009-05-12T17:25:00.000-07:00

Atmosphere

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Atmosphere

2009-05-12T17:23:00.000-07:00

Atmosphere

2009-05-12T17:22:00.000-07:00

Atmosphere

2009-05-12T17:16:00.000-07:00

Atmosphere

2009-05-12T17:15:00.000-07:00

New Orleans

2009-05-12T16:57:00.001-07:00

New Orleans

2009-05-12T16:19:00.000-07:00

New Orleans

2009-05-12T15:49:00.001-07:00

New Orleans

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New Orleans

2009-05-12T15:45:00.000-07:00

New Orleans

2009-05-12T15:44:00.000-07:00

New Orleans

2009-05-12T15:33:00.000-07:00

New Orleans: DT Mardi Gras Indian Parade