Samedi

With a bunch of new DVDs putting Treme back in the news today, it's worth remembering that music and life in the 6th Ward goes on even when the cameras aren't rolling. One of the more noticeable signs of life in the neighborhood happened when the gates of Armstrong Park were thrown back open to the public. With the park that houses Congo Square finally available for enjoyment after so many years of neglect, the community has been using the park on Thursdays this spring for a little outdoor food and music.

Jazz in the Park was christened on April 5, and will resume this Thursday from 5-7 p.m. On the musical menu is one of Treme's favorite trombonists, Glen David Andrews, as well as Michael Baptiste, DJ Quickie Mart and, proving that the little guys can play, too, the Craig Elementary School band. The event, which is sponsored by People United for Armstrong Park, is free and open to the public, but no coolers or outside food and drink is permitted.

Future incarnations of the event are planned for April 26, when Kermit Ruffins will play a really early gig before his early gig at Vaughn's, and May 10, when Big Chief Donald Harrison will help everyone dance the JazzFest wearies.