Remembering
Mendez Saulsbury talks about her daughter Jade Gibson, 31, who died Nov. 19, 2017, after being shot 17 times. She left behind three children.
Victims of violent crime were remembered recently at the White Lantern Memorial, part of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week activities at Bayou St. John in New Orleans. The event featured remarks by victims and survivors of crime, city and state leaders, and the lighting of lanterns to honor the memory of those lost to violence.
Chronic conditions such as heart disease, dental or kidney disease could be present, and we may not even realize it. This means that pet owners often do not know there is a problem until the condition is advanced. This is why regular checkups with the vet and being observant of a pet’s physical appearance and behaviors are important for early detection of medical issues. While we may not always be able to tell if there is an underlying medical condition, there are signs that a
Telling stories
Oral history database preserves African Americans’ takes on life
BY ROBERT S. WOLF Contributing writer
“All of the interviews are fairly contemporary, but many of the stories recount events as far back as the 1920s. It offers really good primary source material for history projects and research papers.”
SHUKRANI GRAY, head of access and opportunity at the library
Local chef and civil rights pioneer Leah Chase died in 2019, but at the New Orleans Public Library, you still can watch her discuss the struggle for civil rights during the 1960s. That’s thanks to an oral history database called The HistoryMakers that contains more than 3,000 interviews with African Americans from across the U.S. who helped shape the country The collection offers a glimpse into the African American experience through the perspectives of those who lived it. Some of those interviewed have deep connections to New Orleans, such as Chase and music producer Harold Baptiste Jr Christina Bryant, director of the library’s City Archives & Special Collections, said this collection of African American voices is designed to preserve a slice of life that would typically be lost to history
“We chose this database because we feel the voices it represents are important, and they are important for people to hear,” Bryant said. “Oral history is a real good medium for sharing information because you get to see people explain more than just history You get emotion, you get a unique perspective, and you get this dialogue that can’t be recreated any other way
“One aspect that attracted me to it was that it has a pretty good representation of content from New Orleans.”
Other New Orleans notables included are singer
NEW ORLEANS PUBLIC LIBRARY PHOTO BY MARIE SIMONEAUX Christina Bryant, left, and Shukrani Gray, are shown in the City Archives & Special Collections, located on the third floor of Main Library.
White roses are given to family members of victims of violence.
STAFF PHOTOS BY SCOTT THRELKELD
Surviving family members hold lighted lanterns as night falls.
STAFF PHOTO BY BRAD
The best defense
Learn to spot and prevent fraud, ID theft at upcoming workshops
BY JANE LEGROS Contributing writer
The New Orleans Public Library is teaming up with AARP Fraud Watch to present two fraud- and ID theft-prevention workshops — the first on April 23 at Keller Library & Community Center, 4300 S. Broad St., and the second on April 24 at Smith Library, 6301 Canal Blvd
Attendees will learn about resources and tools to help spot and avoid identity theft and fraud. Both workshops will start at 11 a.m. and last about an hour AARP will also visit East New Orleans Regional Library, 5641 Read Blvd., on May 3 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m for “shred day,” a free opportunity for people to combat identity theft and fraud by bringing up to three boxes or bags of documents to be shredded onsite by a professional shred company
Suggested items include bank statements, canceled checks, credit card junk mail, and receipts with sensitive information.
MATH PARTY: Students in third through sixth grades are invited to up their math skills and learn some fun games at Smith Library’s Math Workouts program on April 23. Presented in partnership with Make It Count Math, this interactive program allows kids to flex their math skills in a fun and educational way The hour-long program starts at 5 p.m. and a light dinner will be provided. The library is at 6301 Canal Blvd. Visit events. nolalibrary.org for details and registration.
AUTHOR TALK: Bestselling author Gregg Hurwitz will visit the library via Zoom to discuss his thriller series, “Orphan X,”
STORIES
Continued from page 1G
Irma Thomas, artist Edward Clark, pianist and educator Ellis Marsalis Jr., civil rights pioneer Walter Young, education pioneer George Mckenna and former mayor Marc Morial, along with other politicians, civil rights attorneys, musicians, artists and chefs.
“You hear accents, language and words that may have faded from New Orleans speech, and this preserves the very specific dialects that were specific to different African American neighborhoods,” Bryant said.
“We see that fading fast, but oral history preserves that, and I think it’s a neat thing.”
Shukrani Gray, head of access and opportunity at the library, has worked extensively with The HistoryMakers database, and she said it’s the largest and most comprehensive oral history collection available that focuses solely on African Americans.
“All of the interviews are fairly contemporary but many of the stories recount events as far back as the 1920s,” Gray said.
“It offers really good primary source material for history projects and research papers.” Bryant said the database interviews cover everything from older timers, such as talking about the notorious Storyville red-light district to Marc Morial discussing his father, Dutch Morial, who served as the first black mayor of New Orleans.
It’s all presented in a format that’s easy to navigate, and the interviews are broken down into more than 150,000 separate stories.
“This is a good way for us to help flesh out that story and give a different perspective that might not be captured otherwise in the official record
at 6 p.m. on April 24.
Hurwitz is the New York Times No. 1 internationally bestselling author of 24 thrillers. His novels have won numerous literary awards and have been published in 33 languages. Hurwitz is the co-president of International Thriller Writers. Visit nolalibrary.co/gregghurwitz to register and submit your questions for the author
Those interested in sewing can learn how to make a fabric basket or planter cover at the Main Library, 219 Loyola Ave., on April 26.
SEWING PROJECTS: At 11 a.m., an instructor from rickRACK, a local upcycling and fabric sustainability nonprofit, will host a single-session sewing class perfect for adventurous beginners or those who want to brush up on their sewing skills.
The class will cover the basics of machine sewing while guiding you through the process of sewing a fabric basket.
Sewing machines will be available for use and fabric and supplies will be provided by ricRACK.
Registration is required as sewing machines are limited. Visit events.nolalibrary.org to sign up.
On April 29, the library will host a mending workshop at Mid-City Library, 4140 Canal St., from 5-6:30 p.m. Attendees will learn basic hand-sewing techniques to mend, extend, and bring new life to your clothing and accessories.
Space is limited. Visit the library’s website to register MUSIC DOCUMENTARY: Nora
Navra Library will host a screening of the 2018 documentary “A Tuba to Cuba,” on April 28 at 5 p.m. The film follows the Preservation Hall Jazz Band as they trace their musical roots to the shores of Cuba.
The library is located at 1902 St. Bernard Ave.
Jane LeGros is the director of marketing and communications for the New Orleans Public Library
like municipal history,” Bryant said. “This helps us learn more about our history in a meaningful way.”
Local Creole sausage maker
Vance Vaucresson was interviewed for the series about when his mom was one of the first African American librarians in the city
“So, we used that to learn about our own history here at the library,” Bryant added.
“What’s special to me is that you get to see famous people’s point of view on everything from jazz to civil rights,” Gray said.
“And if you search a word like jazz, you get all these perspectives from people you may not expect.
A search returns a snippet of interviews, citations, and descriptions with a link to the complete interview In addition to searching by key words, Gray said users can search by gender state, decade and year
The interviews range in length from 90 minutes to 15 hours and most are accompanied by transcripts that are fully searchable.
“So, if I search for a topic such as slavery in the database, I get 2,976 entries. That means the topic has surfaced that many times across many different interviews, and this allows me to find different references on that particular topic,” Gray added
The HistoryMakers conducts all the interviews. Those selected to give the interviews come from nominations, referrals and advisory boards.
Interviews have been conducted in over 413 cities in the United States and abroad in Norway, Mexico and across the Caribbean. The HistoryMakers was founded in 1999 as a nonprofit The interviews are stored at the Library of Congress in Washington D.C.
A valid New Orleans Public Library card is required to access the database.
Big Easy Wing takes part in project to honor British servicemen
PET
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For dogs, obvious signs of pain include whimpering, groaning, yelping or limping. Panting while resting may also signal that the dog is in pain.
Other signs that a dog may be in pain include:
n Sudden behavior changes such as growling, aggression, biting
n Increased sleeping
n Decreased social interaction
n Lack of interest in food or play
n Arched or hunched back
n Hesitancy to move
n Excessive chewing or licking the same part of the body
For cats, the signs of pain may be hissing, spitting or screaming. There may also be a reduction in activity, a lack of agility or a reluctance to jump. Cats can also signal they are in pain through changes in litter box behavior such as using it more or less often, not using it at all or having difficulty going. Further, cats in pain may start to walk funny in an attempt to minimize the pain. They may have a hunched back as they walk, or may protect their stomachs from being touched if they are experiencing stomach pains. They may also sit or lie more often to reduce use of a leg that may be hurting. Cats will sometimes retreat to hiding spots such as under a bed or in a closet to conserve energy While some degree of hiding is normal, extended periods of hiding may
PROVIDED PHOTO
Damian Priest is zesty lively spunky and bold. A staff and shelter favorite, this charming 10-month-old guy makes friends with ease. When he’s not being a cuddle monster, he’s wrestling with his cat bros, solving food puzzles or purring up a storm. Damian has an iconically orange tabby personality, making him the perfect goofball for any type of home. To learn more, email adoptionteam@ animalrescueneworleans.org
indicate something more serious is wrong. Overall signs that a pet may be ill include:
n Weight changes (loss or gain)
n Food and water consumption (decrease or increase)
n Vocalization (unusually quiet or
Staff report
Big Easy Wing, the local Commemorative Air Force unit, is helping reunite six British servicemen from World War II with their families and countrymen.
The servicemen buried in New Orleans area cemeteries are among those of 423 British servicemen who were killed while training in the U.S. and buried on American soil during the War.
Rubbings of their gravestones, along with rubbings from sites across the U.S. will be transported to the U.K. for a homecoming event celebrating Victory in Europe Day on May 8.
Special transportation is being provided aboard the CAF’s 1944 Douglas R4D aircraft, which is traveling from Texas to Europe as part of this year’s historic Navy to Victory Tour, with a scheduled stop in New Orleans.
more talkative)
n Sleep habits
n Changes in grooming habits
n Hair loss, increased shedding, rash, greasy or matted hair
n Interactions with people and other pets (clingier, following you around)
n Decreased energy level
n Foul breath
n Pale or white gum color
Other warning signs include vomiting, diarrhea, blood in the urine, discharge from the eyes, nose or genitals, or abnormal breathing or panting.
While dogs may give some early indicators that something is wrong, cats are prone to hide their illnesses until they are very sick If any change in routine, behavior or physical appearance is noticed a visit to the vet is in order to determine if there is a medical issue.
Regular preventive care and medical exams are the best ways to detect illness early on.
Events
APRIL 26: A Petco adoption event with ARNO will be held from noon to 4 p.m. at 3520 Veterans Blvd., Metairie. Meet adoptable dogs. Applications to foster or adopt will be available. Every approved adoption includes a free Bark Box bed and toy For more info, email info@ animalrescueneworleans.org.
Traci D. Howerton is the volunteer manager for Animal Rescue New Orleans, a nonprofit, volunteer-based, no-kill shelter For more information, visit www animalrescueneworleans.org.
PROVIDED PHOTOS
Richie Grey, at left, and Harold Buchler at Chalmette Cemetery
Krystal Caldwell does a rubbing at the cemetery.
PET OF THE WEEK
making and selling busts of Thomas Jefferson
In celebration of the 200th anniversary of Jefferson Parish, the Friends of Jefferson Public Library are selling resin busts of namesake Thomas Jefferson for $100 each. The busts are free-standing, 18 inches tall, and are available in each of the four official parish colors: indigo, blue, orange, and yellow Local businesses and individuals are encouraged to purchase and decorate the tabletop statues and post to social media under the hashtag #showusyourbust
These keepsake pieces are created by the team that will launch the Makerspace, a creative space within the East Bank Regional Library where patrons can access tools, resources, and expertise to transform ideas into reality Photo and film digitization, sewing and quilting machines, a recording studio, 3D printers and a laser engraver will be among the equipment available to use for free when the Makerspace opens.
To get a bicentennial bust, visit the Friends at their store, located in the East Bank Regional Library, or email jplmakerspace@jefferson.lib.la.us.
BIOSOLIDS SESSION: Chemist
Janice Padula will discuss “Biosolids for Agricultural Use” at the next meeting of the New Orleans Secular Humanism Association meeting at 3 p.m. April 26, at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie
Biosolids are the treated, semi-solid byproduct of wastewater treatment, often used as a soil conditioner and fertilizer because they contain nutrients and organic matter that can benefit crops and soil health
While there is no statewide ban on biosolids in Louisiana, the state Department of Environmental Quality regulates their use and disposal, and
there are concerns about potential contamination, including PFAS (“forever chemicals”), that are prompting discussions about stricter regulations.
Padula is a professor emeritus of chemistry and environmental science at Clinton Community College in Plattsburgh, New York, where she served for more than 30 years She holds both a bachelor and master of science in chemical education from SUNY Plattsburgh.
MAH-JONG LESSONS: Diane Schleifstein is back this summer to teach American-style mah-jong lessons at two library locations.
• Wagner Library, 6646 Riverside Drive, Metairie: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on the following Thursdays: May 29, June 12, 19 and 26, and July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31.
• East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m on the following Tuesdays: May 27, June 3, 10, 17, 24 and July 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29.
CHECKMATE: Beginners and experts at the game of chess will find multiple opportunities to play the ancient board game at various branches of the Jefferson Parish Library:
• North Kenner Library: 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. May 9.
• East Bank Regional Library: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. May 9 and 23.
• Wagner Library: 2 to 4:30 p.m. May 24.
• Harahan Library 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. May 24, and beginner chess for kids: 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. May 31,
GENEALOGY: The April 23 genealogy class led by special collections librarian Gwen Kelley focuses on “Newspapers and Obituaries.” It starts at 7 p.m. at the East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. The next lecture on “Researching Cemetery Records” will be at 7 p.m. April 30 at EBR.
CITIZENSHIP CLASS: The New Neighbor Project offers free citizenship classes from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Rosedale Library, 4036 Jefferson Highway, Jefferson. The classes are geared to prepare eligible permanent residents for the United States naturalization process. Classes address: the application procedure; American government; American history; the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence; and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services interview procedure.
PET CHIP SCANNING: Jefferson Protection and Animal Welfare Services has installed the first of seven microchip-scanning stations, beginning with the East Bank Regional Library The station, accessible 24/7 year-round, is easily identified and located near the front entrance of the branch library The microchip-scanning sta-
tions are part of a broader plan to expand pet safety resources across Jefferson Parish. With six more stations planned in the coming months, these stations will provide public access to technology that can identify microchipped pets in real-time, helping animal shelters and residents quickly locate lost animals.
COMPUTER SKILLS: Those interested in computer classes should go to the JPL website, then to the classes. Be sure to register to not be left out.
The following classes occur at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.
n Microsoft PowerPoint 1 — 10 a.m. to noon April 24
n Basic Computer — 2 to 4 p.m. April 24
n Introduction to 3D Printing — 7 to 8 p.m. April 24
The following classes occur at the Jane O’Brien Chatelain West Bank Regional Library, 2751 Manhattan, Harvey
n Using Email — 2 to 4 p.m. April 23
n Microsoft Word 1 — 10 a.m. to noon, April 25
n Microsoft Word 2 2 to 4 p.m., April 25 n Microsoft PowerPoint 1 — 2 to 4 p.m. April 30
Chris Smith is manager of adult programming at the Jefferson Parish Public Library
BOOK EVENTS
“ORDINARY TIME; LESSONS LEARNED WHILE STAYING PAT”: Author Annie B. Jones will discuss her debut book with Benjamin Morrison on April 29, 6 p.m., at Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. www gardendistrictbookshop.com.
MICHAEL THE WILDLIFE DETECTIVE: Micheal Birt, the wildlife detective and biologist, will read one of his books and have two animals, a ball python and a bearded dragon, for children to learn all about during Saturday Storytime on April 26, 11 a.m., at Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com. “VOICES AND VISIONS: ESSAYS ON NEW ORLEANS’ LITERARY HISTORY”: Editor Leslie Petty and contributor Nancy Dixon will meet with fans and sign copies of their book of 13 essays on April 26, 2 p.m., at Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com.
CAMPS
MAKING HISTORY: Registration is open for an immersive historical arts and crafts camp for kids June 9-13, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the Historic BK House & Gardens, 1113 Chartres St. in New Orleans. Activities include guided tours of sites around New Orleans, followed by creative sessions at BK House where they will use their experiences as inspiration for crafting historically relevant mementos. Cost is $275 per child. www.bkhouse.org/programs. SWAMP SCHOOL: Registration is open for the first of four-week-long camp sessions sponsored by St. Charles Parish Department of Parks and Recreation. Kids 8-12 can experience nature and outdoor adventures paired with science-backed activities, such as canoeing, field games, archery and tree planting at the Bonnet Carre’ Spillway in Norco. The weeklong sessions run MondayFriday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. beginning June 2 through July 25. Registration for each week is $200 per child. scpparksandrec.com.
ST. MARY’S DOMINICAN HIGH: Registration is open for Dominican’s summer camps. All camps, except soccer and softball camps, are at Dominican’s campus, 7701 Walmsley Ave in New Orleans. Camps range from drama and cooking to cheerleading and sports. See details at www.stmarysdominican.org.
STEAM SUMMER CAMP: Registration is open through May 2 for summer camp for rising first-fifth graders at the Maumus Center and Planetarium, 721 Friscoville Ave in Arabi. Weekly sessions run from June 2 through June 27, with each day’s activities running 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Campers will learn about science and art, including trips to the planetarium. Registration is $175. per child per week. www.sbpsb.org/for-community/ maumus-center.
FLASHBACK: A ’90S ESCAPE ROOM: Teens and adults can experience the nostalgia of the ‘90s as they test their puzzle-solving skills in order to get back to the present day, in only 15 minutes with no smartphones. The event will be held April 24, 5-7 p.m., in the meeting room of the St. Rose Branch library, 90 East Club Drive in St. Rose. Registration is required. A designated time slot will be assigned within the program time. Registration is open online April 10-23. www.myscpl.org/ event/90s-escape-room-12912
SCREEN GRAB
PROVIDED PHOTO LSU Health Science Center graduate student Isabel Stephany-Brassesco observes Dominican junior Tess Carriere applying gel electrophoresis biotechnology to genetically identify a suspect from a forensic crime scene.
Dominican advanced biology students get demos at LSU lab
Staff report
St. Mary’s Dominican students in advanced biology honors class recently participated in a GeneBIORETS student workshop at LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. They attended an anatomy simulation lab, followed with genetics forensics and introduction to PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and gel electrophoresis. Do-
minican alumna Alex Minnard, a second-year medical student, led a session on human organs demonstrations Another Dominican alum, Saheba Cuccia, held a lead testing session. She is with the School of Public Health, where she assists in technology resources. The Dominican students were part of science teacher Janine Koenig’s class. Koenig is Dominican’s Biotechnology Club moderator
SCHOOL NOTES
PROVIDED PHOTO
ST MARY’S DOMINICAN HIGH: Janine Jaques Koenig, a 1982 graduate of Dominican who has taught science at her alma mater for 17 years, was among the 2025 New Orleans Archdiocese Distinguished Alumni Award recipients honored at a reception at Notre Dame Seminary Schulte Auditorium. Involved in Dominican’s STREAM initiative since its beginning in 2014, Koenig was one of five high school teachers in the New Orleans area who spent the summer at LSU Health Science Center research labs through the GeneBIORETS National Science Foundation grant, one of two grants awarded nationally in 2024. She is at center with Archbishop Gregory Aymond, left, and RaeNell Houston, executive director and superintendent, Department of Catholic Schools and Faith Formation.
ST. MARY’S DOMINICAN HIGH: Dominican senior Kennedi Steele has been offered $1 million in scholarships from colleges around the country Steele is the Science National Honor Society president. The Alpha Honor Roll student is a 2025 Posse Scholar and has dual enrollment in U.S. History and Introduction to Engineering, as well as advanced placement courses in Spanish IV and psychology. Steele is the daughter of Teneika and Dwayne Steele, of New Orleans.
Balfour. Moderator is Griffin Gremillion, and head coach is Bruce Himbert, class of 1978.
ST. BERNARD SCHOOLS: Registration is open for the free 2025-2026 preschool program for 4-year-olds. Children age 4 by Sept. 30, and those with disabilities, experiencing homelessness or in foster care and are residents of St. Bernard Parish are eligible. www sbpsb.org. (504) 267-3310 or (504) 301-2000.
FESTIVALS
NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL: April 24-27 and May 1-4; Fair Grounds Race Course, 1751 Gentilly Blvd. in New Orleans. Fourteen stages with more than 5,000 performers. The 2025 festival will showcase Mexico’s music and culture. Vendors will offer crowdfavorite foods and crafts in three marketplaces. Advance tickets through April 8 start at $89. Multiday and VIP passes are available. www nojazzfest.com. PLAQUEMINES PARISH SEAFOOD & HERITAGE FESTIVAL: April 25-27; 333 F. Edward Hebert Blvd. in Belle Chasse. The celebration of local seafood also includes live music, a 5K race, crafts, carnival rides and a kids tent. Friday hours are 6-10:30 p.m. Saturday hours are 11:30 a.m.10:30 p.m. Sunday hours are 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. plaqueminesparishfestival. com.
OLPS TOMATO FESTIVAL: April 25-27; 2320 Paris Road in Chalmette. Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church and School will host the festival of live music, local cuisine, games and rides. Friday’s hours are 5:30-11 p.m. Saturday’s hours are 11 a.m.10 p.m. Sunday’s hours are 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Entrance fee is $5 per person per day, with OLPS students and kids under 12 free. Ride pricing is $30 daily or $65 for the weekend, with individual ride tickets available for purchase. www.olpstomatofest.com.
GRAND ISLE MIGRATORY
BIRD CELEBRATION: The celebration will take place April 25-26 throughout the town of Grand Isle. Activities include tours of nesting birds, boat tours of pelican-rookery Queen Bess Island, expertled daily tours of Grand Isle birding trails, history tour of Grand Isle, state park tour, Department of Wildlife & Fisheries Research Lab tour and more. Details are available online. grandisleevents. org/bird-celebration.
WEGO FEST: The familyfriendly festival featuring bands, arts and crafts, kids’ activities, food and more will be held April 25-27 at Westwego Fisheries & Farmers Market, 484 Sala Ave. in Westwego. Hours on Friday at 5-10 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-8 p.m. www.visitjeffersonparish.com.
NOLA CRAWFISH FESTIVAL: The 10th anniversary festival will be held April 28-30, 3-10 p.m. daily, at The Broadside, 600 N. Broad St. in New Orleans. In addition to fresh boiled seafood, there will be live entertainment each day. Tickets start at $64.95. Multiday, VIP and Super VIP packages are available. www.nolacrawfishfest.com.
CINCO DE MAYO FEST: May 5, 4 p.m. until; Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd. in Metairie. The largest celebration of Mexican food and culture in the New Orleans area offers music on two stages, food, lucha libre wrestling, bull riding and a taco-eating contest. Tickets start at $25. VIP packages available. www cincodemayofest.com.
BAYOU BOOGALOO: May 1618; Bayou St. John at Orleans Avenue. Gates open Friday at 4:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Entertainment includes comedy, drag bingo, crawfish-eating contest and live music, including Big Freedia’s Gospel Revival and Honey Island Swamp Band. Tickets start at $39.50. Children under 12 are free with an adult. More details at thebayouboogaloo.com.
AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOODS
PROVIDED PHOTO
YOUNG MARINES
Grounds, 4953 City Park Drive in Jean Lafitte. Louisiana food, a full weekend of live music, swamp tours, kayak rentals, carnival rides and an art walk. Swamp tours will also be offered. Children 12 and under are free. www lafitteseafoodfest.com.
FILMS & MOVIES
FOC FILM SERIES: The Friends of the Cabildo film series will screen the Louisiana State Museum’s collection of seven 16mm film reels from the 1970 Jazz Fest on April 23, 6:30 p.m., in the third-floor performance space of the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint, 400 Esplanade Ave. in New Orleans. Former WDSU cameraman Don Perry filmed the first festival and donated the reels to the Louisiana State Museum. The films show artists such as Duke Ellington, Pete Fountain, Danny Barker and Mahalia Jackson. Tickets start at $15. friendsofthecabildo.org.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
JUMPIN’ JAZZ HISTORIC
HOME AND COURTYARD
TOUR: The New Orleans Spring Fiesta Association will host the tour on April 30, 2-5 p.m., starting at 826 St. Ann St. in New Orleans. The tour includes visits to private homes in the Vieux Carré, a jazz scavenger hunt, and music. Tickets start at $50 via Eventbrite. www.springfiestanola.com.
RABIES VACCINATION DRIVE:
St. Charles Parish Animal Shelter will provide $10 rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats, and free microchipping with the shots, on April 27, 9 a.m. to noon, at the Edward A. Dufresne Community Center, 274 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway in Luling. Residents must bring a valid ID as proof of residency to the drive-through event. Dogs must be leashed, and cats must be in a carrier. Cash only. (985) 783-5010.
SENIOR FEST 2025: Tickets are on sale through May 1 for the vendor fair and celebration of Older Americans Month on May 16 at UNO Lakefront Arena, 6801 Franklin Ave. in New Orleans. The event, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., will be a sneaker/sock hop. Tickets are $5 per person and can be picked up at the New Orleans Council on Aging Office, 2475 Canal St., Suite 400, in New Orleans. Ticket pick-up should be arranged in advance. (503) 821-4121.
continue April 16, Margie Perez & Muevelo; April 23, Cristina Kaminis Quartet; and April 30, Javier Olondo and Asheson. neworleanscitypark.org.
NOCCA FOUNDATION CON-
CERT SERIES: The free series celebrating NOCCA’s 50th anniversary continues in April with Adonis Rose performing April 23, 2 p.m., at the New Orleans Jazz Museum’s Performance Center, 400 Esplanade Ave. in New Orleans. noccafoundation.org.
RHYTHM & ROSES CONCERT SERIES: The weekly series of outdoor concerts at the Historic BK House & Gardens, 1113 Chartres St. in New Orleans, will feature Amina Scott on April 24. Limited seating; bring chairs. Shows start at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $25. www.bkhouse.org.
SHORTY FEST: Tickets are on sale for the event, with Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue headlining April 28, starting at 5 p.m., at Tipitina’s, 501 Napoleon Ave. in New Orleans. Special guests are Robert Randolph and Jake Clemons of the E Street Band Tour. The Cultural Block Party will offer free outdoor performances on the neutral ground withbrass bands, Mardi Gras Indians and the legendary Battle of the Bands featuring two local high school marching bands. Tickets for the indoor concert, which starts at 8 p.m., start at $100. tipitinas.com.
FUNDRAISERS/GALAS
ZOO-TO-DO FOR KIDS: The Audubon Zoo’s family-oriented fundraising event will be held April 25, 6-9 p.m., at the zoo, 6500 Magazine St. in New Orleans. Sugar Shaker is the main stage entertainment. Along with live entertainment will be arts and crafts, sips and snacks, games and giant inflatables. Tickets start at $35. audubonnatureinstitute.org.
BOOTS ON THE GROUND: A line dance fundraiser sponsored by The Descendants Project and Inclusive Louisiana will be held April 26, 6-9 p.m., in the cafeteria at West St. John High School, 480 LA-3127 in Edgard. The event includes a live DJ and dance instruction. inclusivelouisiana.org.
HONOR: Denise Courrege, quartermaster for the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office Young Marines of Harvey, has been named Division 4 Adult Volunteer of the Year by the Young Marines national organization. Courrege will compete with five other adult volunteers for the National Adult Volunteer of the Year at the Young Marines 2025 Adult Leaders Conference this month in Dallas, Texas. The Young Marines works with youth from all demographics and ethnicities.
HONORS
POLLUTION PREVENTION: The Jefferson Parish Department of Environmental Affairs has received the 2024 Environmental Leadership Program’s Municipality Achievement Award in Pollution Prevention. The award, from the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, recognized the department’s achievement in educating citizens, businesses and industries on stormwater management and urban gardening.
MOVIES
“GONE GIRL”: The 2014 thriller with Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike will be screened April 26, 2 p.m., in the meeting room at the Rosedale Library, 4036 Jefferson Highway in Jefferson. “A TUBA TO CUBA”: The 2018 documentary following the Preservation Hall Jazz Band as they trace their musical roots to Cuba will be shown April 28, 5 p.m., at the Nora Navra Library, 1902 St. Bernard Ave. in New Orleans. “BRINGING UP BABY”: The 1938 comedy hit starring Katherine Hepburn and Cary Grant — and a leopard — will be shown on Lakeshore Classic Movie Night, April 30, 6 p.m., at Lakeshore Library, 1000 W. Esplanade Ave. in Metairie.
INTERNATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL OF NEW ORLEANS: IHSNO, 2733 Esplanade Ave. in New Orleans, will offer paid parking during Jazz Fest for $50 per vehicle. The school, a 10-minute walk from the Fairgrounds, will offer monitored parking 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on April 24-27 and May 1-4. Multiday passes are available at a discounted price. The gated lot is located on Lepage Street between Crete and N. White streets (enter from North Broad Street). Parking is limited and can be prepaid and reserved online. ihsnola. org. BROTHER MARTIN HIGH: The Brother Martin High School bowling team has claimed the Division I LHSAA Bowling State Championship. The Crusaders were the No 1 seed going into the semifinals, defeating Archbishop Rummel and Slidell to take the title at Premier Lanes in Gonzales. Crusader senior Sam Vollenweider was named MVP. Team members are seniors Peyton Avril, Aiden Titus, Beau Bufkin and Sam Vollenweider; juniors Gavin Cardoza and Blake Hebert; sophomores Sheldon Bruno Jr., Nicholas Bruno, Luke “Jeremiah” Cordero, Tyler Nunes and Julian Springler; and freshman Christopher “Chris”
NEW ORLEANS MILITARY AND MARITIME ACADEMY: Open house events for students entering grades 8-12 during the 2025-26 school year are scheduled for May 8, May 19 and June 3 at the NOMMA cafeteria, 425 O’Bannon St in New Orleans. Presentations will begin promptly at 6 p.m. Parent/guardian identification is required. To be eligible to apply, prospective students must attend an open house with at least one parent or legal guardian. nomma.net/admissions.
BROTHER MARTIN HIGH: Registration is open for Brother Martin’s 2025 summer camps for boys 6-12, to be held May 26-July 3 at the school, 4401 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans. Activities include academic games, athletics, band, outdoor wilderness adventures robotics, STEM, theater and weekly field trips. Campers can tailor their experience with various concentrations and activities each week Camp hours are 9 a.m.-3 p.m., with complimentary morning care starting at 7:30 a.m. and aftercare, 3:30 p.m.-5 p.m. available for a fee. The cost is $180 per week for weeks 1-5, $140 for week 6, or $940 for all six weeks. Registration is also open for specialty camps focusing on baseball, basketball, football, soccer and tennis at the school. www. brothermartin.com.
GREEK FESTIVAL NEW ORLEANS: May 23-25; Holy Trinity Cathedral, 1200 Allen Toussaint Blvd. in New Orleans. Hours are 5-11 p.m. on Friday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Sunday. Events include live music on the outdoor stages, kids’ activities, the Greek Festival Run/Walk Race on Saturday. Food offerings include traditional Greek pastries, entrees, and more. Tickets start at $10. www gfno.com.
JEAN LAFITTE SEAFOOD
FESTIVAL: May 30-June 1; Jean Lafitte Auditorium and
TULANE UNIVERSITY: Calvin Mackie, founder and CEO of STEM NOLA | STEM Global Action, and chef Alon Shaya and his wife, Emily, have received Tulane University’s Outstanding Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Mackie was honored for his
NOLA’S GOT TALENT: Victory Church, 5708 Airline Drive in Metairie, is accepting applications through May 2 for a talent competition, to be held in conjunction with the annual Feed the Multitudes free food festival. Applications include an entry form and audition video, to be submitted online. Selected entrants will perform live in front of a panel of judges on June 6 or 13 at 7 p.m. Five finalists will be chosen to perform live on July 4. First prize is $3,000, second prize is $2,000, and third prize is $1,000. www.feed-the-multitudes.com/talent-search.
CULTURE & CONCERTS
EVENINGS WITH ENRIQUE: The free concert series at The Helis Foundation Enrique Alferez Sculpture Garden at New Orleans Botanical Garden City Park, 5 Victory Ave. in New Orleans, will
ZOO-TO-DO: The annual fundraiser at Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St. in New Orleans, to be held May 2, with the patron’s party starting at 7 p.m. and the gala running 8-11 p.m. Live music, cocktails, cuisine from local restaurants, and more. Attire is black tie or white linen suit for men, cocktail attire for women. Tickets start at $195. audubonnatureinstitute.org.
ART & SOUL GALA: The gala will be held May 17 in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the first graduating class of the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. The event, which starts at 6 p.m. at 2800 Chartres St. in New Orleans, will feature food, entertainment and auctions. noccafoundation.org.
NORD GOLF TOURNAMENT: Registration is open for the 2025 tournament, a fourperson scramble, to be held May 17 at Joseph Bartholemew Municipal Golf Course, 6514 Congress St. in New Orleans. Check-in begins at 7 a.m., with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. Fees are $600 for a four-person team or $150 per individual. nordc.org.
SPORTS NORD SUMMER CAMPS & PROGRAMS: Registration for summer programs through NORD will be held April 26, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., at Milne Recreation Center, 5420 Franklin Ave. in New Orleans. Programs will be available for youth ages 4-12 and teens ages 13-17, including the Teen Sports Challenge. nordc.org. SWIMMING LESSONS: The NORD Commission will offer free swimming lessons May 5-23 for ages 6 months through adults. Registration is April 28-May 3. nordc.org/ activities/aquatics/.
CLASSES
SCENIC DESIGNER’S TOOLBOX: A two-day workshop for ages 11 and up will be held May 3-4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., at Le Petit Théâtre Du Vieux Carré, 616 St. Peter St. in New Orleans. Students will learn how to use a laser cutter and work with wood, cardboard, acrylic and more to design and build a layered mini set. Tuition is $150. www.lepetittheatre.com.
COLLEGES
Mackie
STAFF FILE PHOTO
Bird lovers will be flocking to the Grand Isle Migratory Bird Festival coming up April 25-26.
Alon and Emily Shaya
