Reply #8: I was unable to cross the 17th St Canal into Lakeview.

[bvar22]

They were very serious here, unlike the friendly guards posted around the Uptown and Garden Districts. This canal is a "choke point" that is easy to enforce, unlike the maze of back streets and alleys Uptown. There are only a few ways to cross it into the Lakeview area. The hood of the car to the right contained two State Troopers that were glaring at me. Since I had "jumped the que" and was driving down the shoulder, I was a little conspicuous, and these guys were giving me serious attention. The guard visible in the picture began to "unsling" his rifle when he saw the camera. I wanted more pictures, but decided to "back out" with a friendly wave and clownish grin.

I tried a back road, and came to this:

There were also guards with automatic weapons enforcing this road block. They also telegraphed a lack of patience for "civilians". I didn't dare point my camera at them. One of then was waving his assault rifle like a traffic baton. He didn't point it directly at me, but used it more to emphasize his demand that I move, and move NOW!

I have no information about when this area will reopen. I checked a map for the address you requested. That address on Gen Diaz is "in line" with the "collapsed floodwall" and fairly close. There is little hope for the house. If it is a two story, there may be salvageable belongings on the 2nd story, but even the floors above the flood level are being ruined by toxic molds that are percolating in the 100% humidity and 95 degree heat.
I'm wish I had better news.

Since I don't like the MILITARY pointing rifles at me, this has now become personal!
I will check daily, and will post a picture of this address as soon as possible!



Best wishes.

Bob
New Orleans