* I got back late last night from New Orleans. If you’re thinking about going but are worried that the city still isn’t ready for tourism, disavow yourself of that notion. All the hotels are open in the French Quarter and the bars and restaurants are all serving up their own special brand of hospitality.

One of the city’s biggest problems right now is a lack of tourists. Tourism is supposedly down by 50 percent from pre-Katrina days. The bright side of that for people like us is that we can get a dinner reservation at the last minute on a Saturday night without worry. So, head down there soon.

* Congratulations to Becky Carroll, a deputy governor who will soon take over the reins as the Barack Obama campaign’s “national director of women.” Paul linked to Bernie’s Sunday story about Becky’s departure, but I wanted to add my own two cents. I wish her nothing but the best.

* Congrats also to my old pal Jennifer Davis, who has been promoted to Lifestyles editor of the Peoria Journal-Star. John Sharp is taking over Davis’ role as co-author of the paper’s “Word on the Street” column.

* Press release from Gov. Rod Blagojevich on the passing of Chicago Blackhawks owner Bill Wirtz…

“Illinois has lost a true sports and business icon. The legacy of Bill Wirtz will live on through the numerous businesses he built, charities he funded and the thousands of Illinois residents he employed. Patti & I wish to extend our sympathies to the entire Wirtz family. They remain in our thoughts and prayers.”