Yeah, a lot of people with family in the area, from the area, or who just have fond memories of visiting take some comfort in remembering the good times in light of impending disaster. I don't think it diverts from the seriousness of the moment. If some people need a recipe to help cope, I say give it to them.
I was there in NO on Friday for a sales meeting and grew up there as a kid. I went down to Bourbon Street and I could not believe how it has changed since I was a kid. Pretty crude place. Took a tour on Royal Street again and ate some great food. NO has some great history and is a great place to visit. The people there are truly different and I love to talk to them. They go out of there way to really show you the city they are so proud of. I am glad I am not there raising my family. New Orleans will recover and the people in America will be there to help them get back on their feet. I just pray that the people who decided to not leave will be protected.