266. Andy Gellis, part 2

266. Part 2 of our interview with Andy Gellis about his book, BigABigD's Jewish-Cajun Fusion. As a Jew living in South Louisiana, Andy is interested in both Jewish food and the local Cajun cooking. While there are big differences in the two food cultures, there are some interesting similarities. Andy's book also reflects his interest in blending these two traditions to form a new cuisine. We also talk to Andy about eating kosher, about New York Jewish delis, and Jewish food in the Old World.

1. This week in Louisiana history. June 23, 1813. Records show W.C.C. Claiborne used pelican and motto as state seal for first time.
2. This week in New Orleans history. The evening of June 23, St John's Eve (also known as Midsummer because it falls on or near the summer solstice), is the eve of celebration before the Feast Day of St John the Baptist. The Christian holy day is fixed at June 24 but in some countries, festivities are celebrated the night before. In New Orleans, St. John's Eve has traditionally been celebrated by voodoo practitioners. A June 23, 1884 edition of the New Orleans Times-Democrat reported “Eve of St. John” activities; “The queen in attendance” as well as a “scene on the lake coast from Spanish Fort to Milneburg was one which cannot easily be forgotten.”
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Louisiana Cajun Zydeco Festival
   Jun 23–24, 2018
   Saturday, June 23, and Sunday, June 24, 2018 - 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. both days
   Louis Armstrong Park
   701 N. Rampart Street
   New Orleans, Louisiana 70116
   Admission: Free
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. A street band plays on Frenchmen and Chartres Streets. Frenchmen has become the nighttime alternative to Bourbon St. with more locals attending and fewer strip joints. 

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