by Mary-Devon Dupuy

Loyal fans of Da Paper and its doomed seven-days-a-week print schedule: if anyone is looking for a good place to spend a thirsty Thursday, check out the Lower Garden District tonight. Bars in the area will donate a portion of their proceeds to dashTHIRTYdash, a fund set up to benefit those New Orleanians that are losing their jobs along with a daily print newspaper.

Participating bars include the Avenue Pub at 1732 St. Charles, Mia’s Balcony at 1622 St. Charles, and The Irish House at 1432 St. Charles. Organizer and TP alum Rebecca Theim says that participating bars were more than open to the idea. 

“One of the best things so far is that we’ve actually been contacted by businesses,” Theim said. The Avenue Pub will donate 100% of all liquor, beer, and wine sales from 6-9pm. Mia’s Balcony will contribute 10% of their sales for the entire day and 100% of their NOLA Brewery sales. The Irish House will donate 100% of their NOLA Brewery sales from 6-9pm. 

Theim says that she expects another successful fundraiser for the many longtime T-P employees who will depart the Times-Picayune when it becomes "digitally-focused" digital Sept. 30.

“I’ve only gotten an estimate from one of the three restaurants, so I’m hoping it will be several thousand dollars. If we can multiply that, we might be able to do some genuine good.” 

The organizer, who has planned the event from afar, worries especially about older employees whose roots are firmly planted in the city. “Job opportunities for those who want to stay in that field in New Orleans are going to be tough. It could take a while for everybody to land somewhere.” 

Theim believes that –30—can make a serious dent in people’s losses. 

“I’ve only gotten an estimate from one of the three restaurants, so I’m hoping it will be several thousand dollars. If we can multiply that, we might be able to do some genuine good.” To donate to or to get information about future fundraising events, visit -30-.