Sylvia Camarillo, left, and Rick Mikeska get down at The Big Easy, both a musicvenue and a state of mind, an old-fashioned blues roadhouse with a distinctMardi Gras flair

Tom McLendon is owner, bouncer, payroll officer and sometimes janitor of the BigEasy. He opened it 16 years ago.

Bridgett Warren celebrates at The Big Easy.

Chris Sitz leans against one wall where a large framed sign with “Save NewOrleans” is written out in red St. Arnold’s beer bottle caps.

Richard Blye and partner dance cheek to cheek.

Pearce Baldwin enjoys a game of pool.

Linda Jack, left, and Bo Lundford at The Big Easy

Hakeem Olajuwon and Patrick Ewing

Classic Houston Rockets jersey

University of Texas Longhorns basketball game