Nizi’s New Orleans story began in December 2020, when he was found as a stray puppy in the French Quarter begging for food and attention outside bars along Decatur Street. Kind-hearted bar patrons took him in, making sure he was safe and off the street. After time in two foster homes, Nizi eventually found his forever home with Rick Tringali in the Marigny.

Named after the Italian phrase Nuovo Inizi, meaning New Beginnings, Nizi quickly became a neighborhood fixture along Frenchmen Street — and now calls the French Quarter home once again on Chartres Street. He loves running with his friends at Cabrini Playground and chewing through his collection of Mississippi River driftwood. He’s known for his love wiggles, puppy energy, sweet and playful personality, and his ability to make friends and fans everywhere he goes.

In 2023, Nizi returned to the very streets where he was once a stray — this time as a royal Duke of the Mystic Krewe of Barkus. In 2026, he marks his fourth year as Duke, continuing his true New Orleans Rags to Royalty journey.

After double knee surgery last year left him with metal plates in his legs, Nizi is embracing the “Wicked and Wagged” theme by parading this year as the Tin Man. But this Tin Man isn’t searching for a heart… he’s already overflowing with one.

From stray French Quarter pup to royal Duke, Nizi’s story represents resilience, community, and the magic that makes New Orleans, New Orleans.