Kids of all ages
Play spot in Rivertown adds a new twist with an interactive game
BY ROBERT S. WOLF
Contributing writer
The Kenner Planetarium and Rivertown Space Science Complex recently added a high-tech interactive play space designed to bring fun new games for people of all ages and all abilities, but it’s only for a limited time.
The Science Center debuted the Luna Play Spot, which uses sensors and lights to create interactive games for kids and adults. They are played on a linoleum game board on the floor The play spot is a projector, and a set of speakers typically are suspended from a ceiling or an arch over a laminated play
“It’s so complementary to the space, and it’s the perfect way to engage the kids in science center.”
NATALIE NEWTON, deputy CAO of Operations and Communications for Kenner
floor
The games can be customized right down to the music selection to accommodate any age group, from young children to seniors.
The game system is on loan to the city until mid-June from Pelican Playgrounds, a New Orleans-based design and con-
struction company that specializes in outdoor recreation and playground equipment for schools, municipalities and churches.
Natalie Newton, deputy CAO of Operations and Communications for Kenner, said that from the city’s perspective, this interactive experience, which is also inclusive fits the mission of the science center perfectly “It’s so complementary to the space, and it’s the perfect way to engage the kids in science center,” Newton said. “The kids are having a blast with it, so we are hoping to arrange funding so we can have it permanently ” Newton said a Luna Play Spot
unit costs about $20,000.
The system offers about 25 different games like memory tests, reaction timing games, rhyming games and a code breaker game that requires players to remember a series of numbers and repeat it correctly
“It feels like the missing piece to our science center,” Newton added.
Lauren Knight, owner of Pelican Playgrounds, said the company offered the system to the city for a few months.
“We loaned it to the planetarium because we wanted them to
COOL POOLS
Check out this list of New Orleans public pools ideal for
As New Orleans weather inches closer to summer, a season defined by insufferable heat and perpetual sweat, scouting out a cool oasis is imperative.
Thankfully, the city offers free, public pools for residents to have fun and cool off during the hottest time of the year And since last year, the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission has opened even more public pools, like the just-opened George V. Rainey Natatorium, a year-round facility in Algiers.
While the city has five indoor pools that are open year-round, come summer, 15
See POOLS, page 2G
Traci
STAFF PHOTO BY BRETT DUKE
Jelani McGee exercises at the new $8.5 million George V. Rainey Natatorium in Algiers on May 6
PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT
STAFF
of its outdoor pools will reopen Two others, the Whitney Young pool at 6500 Magazine St. and the Taylor pool at 2600 S. Roman St., are both currently closed for repair
While most outdoor pools will open back up on May 31, residents should note that the A.L. Davis pool, 2600 LaSalle St., is scheduled to open later this summer due to repairs, according to Leatrice Dupré, press secretary for Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s office.
NORD’s indoor pools are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 9 a.m to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Outdoor pools will open from 8 a.m to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. However, some outdoor pool hours will vary as staffing is limited, so residents should call ahead first.
Many of the pool complexes also offer additional programs for residents to discover new activities and hobbies.
George V. Rainey Natatorium
2529 Gen. Meyer Ave.
The New Orleans Recreational Department opened its $8.5 million year-round pool in Algiers on May 5, just in time for summer fun.
This rec center is ADA accessible and has five pools — indoor and outdoor — across its 10,538-square-foot layout.
The natatorium also offers a variety of aquatic classes, like water aerobics, and even has a splash pad for kids to enjoy Gert Town Natatorium
3411 Broadway St.
There’s fun for all ages at NORD pools.
This natatorium is indoor and open year-round for residents interested in swim lessons, swim camps and other recreational activities for the summer Swimmers can sign up for lap swim or browse other activities offered at nordc.org/parks/gert-town-natatorium
Treme Recreation Community Center
900 N. Villere St.
Treme Recreation Community Center is another indoor option to consider when days are long and hot.
The center has an arts and craft room and dance studio for kids to enjoy, too.
View upcoming events at nordc.org/parks/treme.
Stallings Gentilly Pool
2700 Lapeyrouse St.
This outdoor pool is ideal for cooler summer days.
The complex also offers summer camps and sports fields, leaving plenty of space for visitors to take advantage of good weather and bask in the sun.
Make sure to consult the complex’s hours before visiting at nordc.org/parks/stallingsgentilly
Lyons Recreation Center
624 Louisiana Ave.
Located along the Mississippi River near the Irish Channel neighborhood, Lyons Recreation Center has an outdoor pool for locals to flock to on the balmy days of summer.
Unique activities like Kung Fu and Sanda kickboxing add to the complex’s allure.
To consult the pool’s schedule and offerings, go to nordc.org/parks/lyons.
Here’s a list of other public pools in the city:
INDOOR
n Joe W. Brown, 5601 Read Blvd.
n Sanchez, 1616 Fats Domino Ave.
OUTDOOR
n A.L. Davis, 2600 LaSalle St
n Pradat, 7200 Dreaux Ave.
n Federal City Pool, 2220 Constitution St.
n Harrell, 2202 Leonidas St
n Stallings St. Claude, 4300 St Claude Ave
n Rosenwald, 1120 S Broad St.
n St. Bernard Center 1500 Lafreniere St.
n Sampson, 3211 Treasure St
PETS
Continued from page 1G
will allow a small pet to fly in the cabin for domestic flights if it is in an airlineapproved carrier The pet must have its own ticket, and people are usually limited to one pet carrier per customer There are age and vaccination requirements to fly a pet. Pets must also be contained in the terminal, gate area and while boarding and exiting the aircraft INTERNATIONAL COMPLICATIONS: International flights bring additional challenges. Many countries have strict rules and often require extensive health certifications and vaccinations Some even require quarantine periods once you arrive. Re-entry into the United States can be a headache, too, as regulations are always changing, especially for dogs. Be ready to get documentation well in advance and be prepared for delays if traveling internationally with a pet CONFIRM ACCOMMODATIONS: Make sure the hotel or condo where you’re staying is pet-friendly and that any restrictions on the size, weight and number of pets are met.
KNOW YOUR PET: Not all pets travel equal-
exploration with “Sput-Nick,” a robot who is named after the first satellite
see how versatile it can be,” she said.
“It’s so inclusive that it can be used by families, kids, adults and seniors.”
Knight said an app integrates with the play spot to allow players to keep track of their high scores and their friends’ scores.
“The Luna Play Spot is not just for kids,” Knight said. “We have installed them at senior centers and memorycare facilities where we’ve received a lot of positive feedback.”
Knight said one nice feature is that many of the games can be customized with music from any generation to make it more appealing to a particular group of players.
More at the Science Complex
The centerpiece of the Space Science Complex is undoubtedly the life-size, full-scale mock-up of the International Space Station that was built in New Orleans East in 1984 by Martin Marietta.
It’s construction was part of the bid process to build the real space station.
The mock-up was moved to Kenner in 1999 when the science center opened, and it’s so large that the building was built around the space station module, said Heidi Glorioso, assistant to the mayor Kenner. It’s a one-of-akind exhibit.
ly If a dog is anti-social and not used to being in new settings or meeting new people, tagging along on vacation may not be the best idea. If a dog is stressed easily or does not do well in unfamiliar situations, then it may be best to leave him in the hotel or condo while the family enjoys vacation activities.
ON THE BEACH: My sister-in-law just returned from Seaside, Florida, and was surprised to see that dogs are not allowed on the beach unless you’re a resident or have a permit. If dogs are allowed, some beaches require pets to be leashed at all times and may restrict areas that are accessible to pets.
CARRY WATER: A dog visiting the beach or hiking in the woods will need access to shade and lots of fresh water (not salt water) to keep him hydrated in the heat. Dogs can become dehydrated easily
SUNSCREEN: Pet stores carry dog-specific sunscreen, and it should be used on dogs with lighter coats and sensitive spots such as the nose and the tips of the ears.
PROPER IDS: A secure collar with proper identification tags, up-to-date vaccinations and being microchipped are checklist items that are crucial before traveling. In the event that you should become separated, these will be important. I recommend a secure harness with a col-
with general admission. School and camp groups may also schedule appointments to visit the Luna Play Spot and the rest of the center Tuesdays through Fridays..
TICKETS: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors 60 and over, $5 for children ages 2-12.
INFO: For more information or to schedule a group visit, go to la-kenner civicplus.com/348/Features-andAttractions
“A walk through the international space station module gives you a firsthand look at where astronauts live and work in space,” said Glorioso. “You get an idea of how cramped the quarters are and get a good perspective of how all sides are used for storage. Most people don’t realize that there is no top or bottom or left or right in space.”
The space center explores the history of NASA rocketry and delves into the spin-off technology of space
lar and tags. Accidents can happen so always be prepared.
Pet packing essentials:
n Medications and first-aid supplies
n Leashes and collars
n Paperwork (vaccine records, etc.)
n Appropriate carrier/kennel
n Bedding
n Food and water
n Life jacket (if water activities are involved)
I always like to identify the nearest vet clinic where we are staying, just in case there is an emergency while we are away
Bringing the pets on vacation may not be ideal for every person or every pet. The type of travel matters: A short road trip may be tolerable, but a long flight can be stressful for some pets — and owners, for that matter As you make those summer travel plans weigh the pros and cons and see if the pets might be more comfortable staying with a trusted family member or sitter.
Traci D. Howerton is the volunteer manager for Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO), a nonprofit, volunteer-based, no-kill shelter. For more information on ARNO, visit www animalrescueneworleans.org.
“He talks to visitors about all the things we use in everyday life that was developed as a result of the space program,” said Glorioso. “It surprises people that something as common as Corelle unbreakable dinnerware was developed for the space program.”
The planetarium brings distant stars and planets closer to home with a presentation of how the solar system works that is projected on the 50-foot dome ceiling every hour on the hour But the planetarium is not all about science because it also offers a mix of education and entertainment with more than 80 different laser light shows ranging from Christmas and Halloween to country music and rock ‘n’ roll.
The Luna Play Spot will be available for public use from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and is included with general admission to the Kenner Planetarium and Rivertown Space Science Complex ($6 for adults, $5 for seniors 60 and over, $5 for children ages 2-12). School and camp groups may also schedule appointments to visit the Luna Play Spot and the rest of the center Tuesdays through Fridays, now through June 2025.
The Kenner Planetarium and Space Science Complex is located at 2020 4th St. in Kenner For more information or to schedule a group visit, go to la-kenner.civicplus. com/348/Features-and-Attractions.
PROVIDED PHOTO
Mini Mini used to have a dad who loved her, but one day everything changed. She’s an adult, gentle female tabby and white sweetheart with the softest fur and the kindest little soul. She may be shy at first, but she’s a curl-up-next-toyou-and-blink-slowly kind of girl. She deserves a next chapter filled with peace, patience, and love To learn more, email adoptionteam@ animalrescueneworleans.org
SPOT
PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT
Tiffany and Casey Jacobs race to beat the timer on the new Luna Play Spot at the Kenner Planetarium.
Gardeners can give and take plants, pots, and seeds at May 21 swap
BY JANE LEGROS Contributing writer
A plant swap will take place on May 21 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m at the Milton H. Latter Memorial Library, 5120 St. Charles Ave.
Bring your clippings, propagations, cast-off plants, unused seeds and spare pots to swap and share with others. Make a seed bomb to propagate local wildflowers. And speaking of gardens, the library’s youth programming team is hosting a special Secret Garden-themed book party at Algiers Regional Library on May 24 Children age 6-12 and their caregivers are invited to stop by at 3014 Holiday Drive between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. for themed snacks, crafts, activities and more. Registration is encouraged. Visit events.nolalibrary.org to sign up.
GAMES FOR GROWN-UPS: Let the good games roll at East New Orleans Regional Library’s game night for adults on May 27. Stop by between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m for some friendly competition. Attendees can play games with a library team member, bring a friend or meet a new opponent. The library is located at 5641 Read Blvd
BOOK CLUB: The monthly Who Dun It? Book club will meet at Nora Navra Library, 1902 St. Bernard Ave., at 5 p.m. May 21. The group is discussing “The Midnight Feast” by Lucy Foley, a mindbending psychological thriller that explores themes of personal identity, how social influences can determine a person’s ultimate destiny and a quest for redemption.
AUTHOR TALK: On May 28, the Nora Navra Library will stream an exclusive interview with Karin Slaughter and Ramón Rodríguez. Attendees will watch the recorded interview between Slaughter, the author of the “Will Trent” books, and Ramón Rodríguez star of the new TV series. Free copies of Slaughter’s new book, “This is Why We Lied,” will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. The interview watch party, at 1902 St Bernard Ave., starts at 5:30 p.m.
SUMMER READING: The library is gearing up for its annual reading challenge. Libraries across the country host summer reading programs to encourage reading as a lifelong habit, maintain reading skills that children and teens have achieved throughout the school year, and increase interest in libraries.
The New Orleans Public Library’s Summer Fun & Reading Challenge encourages people of all ages to read and engage with literacy in a fun, free and accessible way By reading 800 minutes and completing a variety of library-themed activities, residents of all ages can have fun, explore their city, and utilize their library card to its full potential all for free Along the way, participants can earn prizes and attend a variety of free events for all ages and interests at library locations across the city
This year’s completion prize is a limited-edition canvas tote bag, featuring illustrations by local artist Sean Clark. Plus, participants of all ages get a prize just for signing up. The challenge starts June 1, but pre-registration is open now. Visit summerfun.nolalibrary.org or stop by any library location to sign up. The 2025 Summer Fun & Reading Challenge is sponsored by the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library, with funding from the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund, the Jazz & Heritage Foundation, and Raising Cane’s. Jane LeGros is the director of marketing and communications for the New Orleans Public Library
5 Dominican athletes sign with colleges
Staff report
Five St. Mary’s Dominican High School seniors have signed college athletic, dance and color guard team scholarships for the fall 2025-2026 term.
Caroline Bailey, a four-year member of cross country and track and field, was also a member of the 2024 regional championship team. She will be on the cross country and track and field teams at Rhodes College.
Olivia Bordes, a track and field five-year member is Dominican’s record holder in the 100 meters, 400 meters, and the 4x100 relay team. She will be on the track and field team at the University of South Alabama.
Zoie Mitchell, a five-year member of Dominican’s volleyball and basketball teams, was a member of the the 2022 and 2023 volleyball state championship teams. She will play
volleyball at William Carey University Madison Minor, a four-year member of the Dominican Debs, was captain of the 20242025 team that won an overall state championship and a third-
place finish in the nation. She will attend Southeastern University and will be dancing with the Lionettes Dance Team.
Margaux Dagley, a five-year member of Dominican’s color guard, has participated in the
marching band and winter guard. Her team medaled in both state and regional competitions. As captain, she led her team from 2022 to 2025 and will be on the color guard
SCHOOL NOTES
Ursuline first graders Grace Fuller and Elaina Uhle
marketplace.
URSULINE ACADEMY: An entrepreneurship unit at Ursuline blended technology, science, music and art, creating an opportunity for first- and second-graders to foster collaboration and innovation.
The First Grade Marketplace let students from all grade levels purchase Ursuline-themed charms to be used on lanyards, schoolbags or water bottles. The entrepreneurs made $1,100 and will donate the money to a charity of their choice.
They worked with teacher Jenna Notarianni, art teacher Julia Lavigne and science teacher with Rebecca Lefante.
Second graders made and marketed handmade product as part of the class’s entrepreneurship unit.
NEW ORLEANS MILITARY AND MARITIME ACADEMY:
An open house for students entering grades 8-12 during the 2025-26 school year will be held 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.
Mount Carmel and Jesuit robotics teams compete at world challenge
Robotics teams from Mount Carmel Academy and Jesuit High School qualified to represent Louisiana at the FIRST Tech Challenge level in the 2025 FIRST Championship, the world’s premier competition for youth robotics, held in April in Houston. MCA and Jesuit competed against teams from around the country and more than 50 nations.
COLLEGES
at the Ole Miss.
PROVIDED PHOTO
Dominican seniors smile at their college signings. From left are Caroline Bailey, Olivia Bordes, Zoie Mitchell, Madison Minor and Margaux Dagley.
PROVIDED PHOTOS
sell their handmade epoxy charms, Dangle-Lions, as part of their first-grade
Ursuline second grader Olivia LaFrance shows off her Fancy Frames, the business she started as part of her class entrepreneurship unit.
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From left on the front row are Jesuit coach Jim Keen, MCA coach Brandon Petrie, Emily Aleman, Daphne Dyle, Annelise Cotaya, Jolie Oubre, Sophia Hattier, Martin Varela, Austin Carriere, Thatcher Slaughter, Brady Carriere, MCA Coach Chad Olivard and Jesuit Coach Travis Kieff; back row, Jack Hubbard, George Bernard, Evan Ernst, unofficial Jesuit Robotics Mascot Dean Hubbard, Ava Walker, Avery Dugas, Lucy Mizell, Alyssa Romero, Cullen Morris, Marlon Varela, Michael Trepagnier, Miles Hubbard and Justin Trepagnier Not pictured are MCA Coach Jacob DiMartino and Jesuit Coach Paul Trepagnier
War of words: Rated Scrabble tournament comes to Metairie library
The eighth edition of Saturday Scrabble will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m May 31 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W Napoleon Ave. in Metairie.
The event is a fully rated seven-game North American Scrabble Player’s Association tournament For those less advanced, there’s also a school Scrabble tournament, and a three-game round-robin newcomer event for interested library patrons takes place from 9 a.m. to noon. Registration begins at 9 a.m Clocks in all events start at 9:30 a.m. Other schedule and format information:
n Main event — seven games followed by an awards ceremony Thirty-minute lunch break after round three
n School Scrabble — number of games based on number of teams.
n Newcomer event maximum of here games followed by open play Division and pairings are subject to the director’s discretion.
Entries for the main event must be received by May 28; no walkins. Players must bring boards, tiles, clocks and score sheets.
Participating players in the main event much be a member of NAS-
PA For Registration: www scrabbleplayers.org. The lunch window is 30 minutes. Game Four clocks will start promptly at 1 p.m. There is no time for tournament players to leave the facility for lunch.
WORD UP: The Scrabble Club at the Harahan Library, 219 Soniat Ave., meets from 2 to 3:30 p.m. June 16 and the third Monday of each month.
MARKETING SHORT STORIES: Pam
Ebel, a longtime fiction writer, will present “Long Story Short – Why and How to Write and Market Short Stories,” from 1 to 3:30 p.m., on three Monday afternoons: June 16, June 30, and July 14, at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.
This free course is designed to explore the advantages of learning to write, submit and market short stories. “From Flash Fiction to longer works, we will look at six reasons to write short fiction, learn the skills and tools needed to write short fiction successfully, and produce stories to share with each other,” Ebel said.
Participants will need a functioning email account and the ability to create stories in Microsoft Word in order to receive critiques from
that are created during the sessions or those already written. Critiques will be shared with other participants following a format that provides relevant feedback in a supportive environment.
others.
“How to Write and Market Short Fiction” is designed to help those who are already writing fiction on a regular basis and those who are expanding their writing expertise. The course will focus on:
n Six reasons one should consider writing short stories
n The definition of a short story and what genres are available to the writer
n What craft/skills one needs to develop or improve on in order to create stories
n Creating a body of work
n The markets available for short stories
n The submission processes for publishing and the etiquette required Participants will read stories
FOOD AND DRINK DEMOS: Liz Williams, author of numerous foodrelated books and founder of the Southern Food and Beverage Museum, and Abigail Gullo, a hospital professional with more than a decade in the spirits industry, will provide a demonstration at 6:30 p.m. May 22 at the West Bank Regional Library, 2751 Manhattan Blvd. Williams will prepare tapas dishes including a tomato bruschetta and a hummus Gullo will present two cocktails — the Queen Bee and Remember the Maine. Patrons will be allowed to sample the dishes that are prepared during the demonstration. Patrons younger than 21 will not be served alcohol.
WETLAND WALKERS: Lafitte Library 4917 City Park Drive, Lafitte, hosts Wetland Walkers every Monday at 6 p.m. Combine nature and exercise with a group walk along the boardwalk of the Lafitte Trace. The group meets inside the library before the walk.
CREATIVE CONNECTIONS: Belle Terre Library, 5550 Belle Terre Road, Marrero, hosts Creative Connec-
tions, a welcoming and inclusive program designed for adults with developmental disabilities on Mondays from 10 to 11 a.m. Each session features engaging activities that encourage creativity social interaction, and lifelong learning. Participants will explore a variety of hands-on experiences, including arts and crafts, music, physical exercise, storytelling, games, and sensory-friendly projects. This program fosters community independence, and fun in a supportive environment. Caregivers are encouraged to participate.
NOTARY SERVICES: Free notary services are available at Rosedale Library 4036 Jefferson Highway, from 7 to 8 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. A certified notary public performs various duties, including: witnessing the signing of documents, verifying the identity of the signer, verifying the signer’s willingness to sign the documents, verifying the signer’s awareness of the contents of the document or transaction, administering oaths and affirmations, and taking depositions and affidavits.
Chris Smith is manager of adult programming at the Jefferson Parish Public Library
Republican
women take part in Love the Boot Week with trash pickup
The Republican Women’s Club of Jefferson Parish picked up trash at the Laketown Kenner Park for Love the Boot Week. Pictured from left, seated, are Faith Peperone, Tina Payton and Alexa Hamaueil; standing, Debbie Albert, Jan Vincent, Mary Anderson with RubyDoo, Janet Schwary, Diane Hollis, Penny Abadie, Jeff Holland, Megan Holland, Debbie Polito, Sandy Stubbs, Vicky Heidbrink and Barbara Lawler PROVIDED PHOTO
Scrabble will be the word at the Metairie library.
Metairie lodge recognizes student achievement
Staff report
At the recent Youth Awards Banquet, Elks Lodge No. 30 in Metairie recognized 12 students for their achievements.
A total of $16,000 in scholarship money was awarded to seven local students. Winners were Denny Qui, Silliman Institute; Ann Verret, Mount Carmel Academy; Brady Napolitino, Destrehan High School; Caitlin Bruno, Willow School; Olivia Magee, Hammond High Magnet; Amy Hochhalter, Belle Chasse High; and Evan Waelde, Haynes Academy.
Three students from Audubon Elementary School were presented awards for the drug awareness posters. Winning designers were Yamileth Armendariz, Laila Kennedy and Delainie Alvarez.
Two students were recognized for their Americanism essays. Arivan Subramanian, from Patrick Taylor Science and Technology Academy and Spencer Sutton from Haynes Academy, were each second-time winners of the award.
Brian Baye is the Lodge 30 scholarship chairman. Gwen Ward is drug awareness chair Sonia Nguyen is the lodge’s Americanism chair Scott Guirovich is the Lodge 30 exalted ruler
Elks Lodge No. 30, in Metairie, continued its support of foster children in New Orleans, using a $6,000 Beacon Grant from its national group to procure resources for young adults who are about to age out or have recently aged out of the foster system. Working with One Heart Nola, Lodge No. 30 provided baby care needs for expectant mothers, cleaning kits, tool kits, kitchen equipment and household furnishings; Amazon gift cards for specific needs; and gas cards to help ensure kids have gas money to get to their place of employment
PROVIDED PHOTO
At the recent Youth Awards Banquet, Elks Lodge 30 awarded a total of $16,000 in scholarship money. Pictured, from left, are Brian Baye, scholarship chairman; scholars Denny Qui, Ann Verret, Brady Napolitino; and Scott Guirovich, Lodge 30 exalted ruler Not pictured are scholarship winners Caitlin Bruno, Olivia Magee, Amy Hochhalter and Evan Waelde.
FESTIVALS
GREEK FESTIVAL NEW OR-
LEANS: The golden anniversary of the fest will be celebrated May 23-25 at Holy Trinity Cathedral, 1200 Allen Toussaint Blvd. in New Orleans. Festival 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, performances by the Hellenic Dancers throughout the weekend and tours of the 160-year-old cathedral. Food offerings include traditional Greek pastries, entrees, salads, savories and desserts. Tickets start at $10. www.gfno. com.
JEAN LAFITTE SEAFOOD
FESTIVAL: May 30-June 1; Jean Lafitte Auditorium and 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.
LGBTLOL: The 2025 Queer Comedy Fest brings queeridentifying comedians from around the country together May 29-June 1 at various locations in the city. Some events are free. Tickets start at $99 via Eventbrite. www.lgbtlol com.
NOMA SPRING FESTIVAL: The New Orleans Museum of Art will hold the festival May 31, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., inspired by the special exhibition “New African Masquerades: Artistic Innovations and Collaborations.” This event features live music, art-making activities, a photo preservation workshop and guided tours across the museum and Sculpture Garden. Admission is $5 members; $10 general; free for ages 19 and under. NOMA is at 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle in City Park in New Orleans. noma.org.
LOUISIANA CAJUN-ZYDECO FESTIVAL: The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation will present the festival honoring the musical heritage of southwestern Louisiana May 31 and June 1 outside at the George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center, 1225 N. Rampart St. in New Orleans. Gates open at 2 p.m., with live music 3-8:30 p.m. Performers include T Broussard & the Zydeco Steppers and Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. Free. www. jazzandheritage.org.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
SPRAY PARKS: The St. Charles Parish Department of Parks and Recreation has officially opened Ormond Spray Park and West Bank Spray Park. Through May, the parks will be open Saturday and Sunday, 1-6 p.m. As of May 28, summer operating hours will be Tuesday-Sunday, 1-6 p.m. www.scpparksandrec.com.
ENERGY BILL ASSISTANCE: Atmos Energy will host an event on May 21 to assist Jefferson Parish residents who need help paying their natural gas bills. It will be held 10 a.m.2 p.m., at Johnny Jacobs Playground, 5851 5th Ave. in Marrero. Eligibility requirements include Atmos Energy bill must be in applicant’s name; photo ID; copy of last bill and/or account number; must not have received three Share the Warmth pledges in the past year. www.atmosenergy.com/customer-service/ EAevents/. MEMORIAL DAY COMMEMORATION: The National WWII Museum will host a remembrance of military servicemembers who lost their lives in service to their country The event will feature remarks from a Gold Star family member, a performance by the Victory Belles and by the American Legion Post 377 band and a Missing Man Table by the Civil Air Patrol. The event will be held May 26, 11 a.m.-noon, at 945 Magazine St. in New Orleans. www nationalww2museum.org.
SYMPHONY BOOK FAIR: The Symphony Book Fair will be held May 31-June 1 at the UNO Lakefront Arena, 6801 Franklin Ave. in New Orleans. There are 50 categories of books, sheet music, framed and unframed art, CDs, DVDs, LPs and audiobooks. Saturday hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. with a $20 admission charge until 1 p.m. Sunday hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with a children’s sale 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Participants can decorate a bag and fill it for $5. (504) 343-2226.
ORCHID SHOW AND SALE: The New Orleans Orchid Society will host its 73rd annual show and sale at Lakeside Mall, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd in Metairie, on May 30-June 1. Twenty exhibits and 11 vendors will be in attendance. Exhibits and sales are open to the public at no charge during regular mall hours. https://neworleansorchidsociety.org/.
SIP + DIP: Tickets for the Sip+Dip experience at Cool Zoo Waterpark at Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St. in New Orleans, are on sale. Sip+Dip events start May 30 and take place almost every Friday
through August, 6:30-10 p.m. Each event has a different theme and gives grown-ups a chance to relax, enjoy live entertainment, and cruise down the lazy river at this 21+ takeover of the waterpark. Tickets start at $50. For details, see www.audubonzoo.com/sip.
TOAST FOR THE COAST: Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana will host a networking event in conjunction with the State of the Coast conference on May 21, 7-9 p.m., at Sidecar Patio & Oyster Bar, 1114 Constance St. in New Orleans. Local cuisine will include fresh oysters and cocktails. Live music will be provided by Dave Jordan. Tickets are $50. www crcl.org/toastforthecoast.
TWISTED RIVER POETRY SERIES FINALE: Five New Orleans poets and one prose/ essay writer will headline the series finale on May 22, 7 p.m., at the Old Arabi Lighthouse, 234 Mehle St. in Arabi. Carolyn Hembree, Kayla Min Andrews, Michelle (M.A.) Nicholson, Sean Munro, Alan Brickman and Todd Cirillo will read from their works, followed by an open mic. Free.
SALON SUPPER CLUB: The New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle in New Orleans, debuts a new art- and food-focused event series inspired by works on view. On May 22, 6–9 p.m., it celebrates “Nicolas Floc’h: Fleuves-Océan, Mississippi Watershed,” which features landscape and underwater photography offering a look at the river. The evening will include a signature dish from E.J. Lagasse, live music from Cameron Dupuy and the Cajun Troubadours, an exhibition-inspired menu from Ralph Brennan Catering & Events at Café NOMA and after-hours museum access. Tickets are $250. Proceeds support NOMA’s exhibitions, educational initiatives and programs. noma.org/salonsupperclub.
OGDEN AFTER HOURS: In celebration of “Hoa Tay (Flower Hands): Southern Artists of the Vietnamese Diaspora,” Ogden Museum of Southern Art will host for a Nite Market on May 22, 6-8 p.m., at the museum, 925 Camp St. in New Orleans. The evening will feature Lion and Vietnamese Fan Dance performances, along with food trucks, merchandise and craft-making by VIET (Vietnamese Initiative in Economic Training). Admission is $15 for adults; $7 for children. ogdenmuseum.org.
NOMA AT NIGHT: The New Orleans Museum of Art series continues May 23, 6-9 p.m., with the Indian Arts Circle of New Orleans celebrating the cuisines, arts and cultures of India. The NOLA Garba Group and Sanjukta will perform dance routines in the Great Hall, local Indian food vendors Atti NOLA and Inaayat NOLA will offer native dishes, and a Mehndi tattoo artist will be on site. Admission is $15 members; $30 general; free for ages 19 and under. NOMA is at 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle in City Park. noma.org. CARD & COLLECTIBLE CONVENTION: The show featuring a wide variety of sports cards and memorabilia, including rare and hard-to-find items from dealers all across the country, will be held May 31, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., at the Caesars Superdome, 1500 Sugar Bowl Drive in New Orleans. It will include live music and local cuisine. Tickets start at $15 via Ticketmaster.
CULTURE & CONCERTS
MUSIC FOR SHAKESPEARE: The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, under the direction of conductor Matthew Kraemer, will present a program featuring music by Mendelssohn, Diamond, Shostakovich and Korngold and inspired by Shakespeare’s plays on May 14, 6 p.m., at the New Marigny Theatre, 2301 Marais St. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $50. lpomusic.com.
WEDNESDAYS IN THE POINT: The 2025 season continues in May with music 6-7:30 p.m. at
various locations in Algiers. Anais St. John will perform May 21 at The Little House, 640 Bouny St. The last concert, on May 28, features Rick Trolsen & Friends at Trolsen’s Porch at Triangle Park, 521 Bermuda St.
THURSDAYS AT TWILIGHT: City Park Conservancy hosts the musical series at the Pavilion of the Two Sisters in the Botanical Garden, 1 Victory Ave. in City Park, New Orleans. Concerts are held indoors on Thursday nights, 6-8 p.m. On May 22, entertainment will be provided by The Yat Pack and Mediterranean Pasta, and on May 29 by Gal Holiday and The Honky Tonk Revue and Hot Dogs. Admission is $15. NewOrleansCityPark.org.
NEIGHBORHOODS OF NEW
ORLEANS: Friends of the Cabildo and the Louisiana State Museum have joined to create the first Friends of the Cabildo Adult History Class. Each session will look at different neighborhoods, from the Garden District to Faubourg St. John to suburbanization of the 1950s. All classes are via Zoom. May 21 has two classes: 4 p.m. on Garden District, Uptown and Carrollton; and the 6 p.m. class is on MidCity, Broadmoor and Gentilly. May 23 class at 4 p.m. is on Suburbs of New Orleans. Tickets start at $40 for members, $50 for nonmembers. friendsofthecabildo.org.
FREE COMMUNITY CONCERTS: Lyrica Baroque will mark its 10th anniversary with performances featuring the Amina Scott Quintet and a newly commissioned work by Grammy award-winning composer Alex Brown performed by Jaren Atherholt, Amina Scott and Oscar Rossignoli. The May 28 concert will begin at 6 p.m. at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, 400 Esplanade Ave. in New Orleans. The May 29 concert, 7 p.m., will be held at the Algiers Music and Artist Studio, 935 Teche St. Both events have a suggested donation of $25. lyricabaroque.com.
ARTIST TALK: Environmental photographer Ben Depp and historian Rien Fertel will lead a discussion on “Edge of Tomorrow” in celebration of the new exhibition at The Historic New Orleans Collection on May 31, 2-4:30 p.m., at Williams Research Center, 410 Chartres St. in New Orleans. Attendees can walk to HNOC, 520 Royal, to view the exhibition, with a reception and light refreshments to follow. Free; registration is required. hnoc.org.
THE CHITLIN’ CIRCUIT: FOOD STORIES FROM THE ROAD: The New Orleans Jazz Museum, in collaboration with the Dillard University, will host a panel discussion and live performance exploring the legacy of the Chitlin’ Circuit, a network of performance venues that fostered African American artistry during segregation. The event, May 23, 5 p.m., at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, 400 Esplanade Ave. in New Orleans, features a performance by James Andrews, the “Satchmo of the Ghetto.”
and work of George Dureau, in conversation with HNOC outreach historian Robert Ticknor. Free; registration required. hnoc.org.
“LINCOLN VS. DAVIS: THE WAR OF THE PRESIDENTS”: Author Nigel Hamilton will discuss and sign copies of his latest book, a finalist for the 2025 Gilder Lehrman Lincoln Prize, on May 21, 6-7:30 p.m., at Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St. in New Orleans. www.octaviabooks.com.
“THE WELLNESS BLUEPRINT: BUILDING A BETTER YOU”: Author Funmilayo Alexis will sign copies of her newest book on May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Africa Love Store Nola, 3110 Magazine St. in New Orleans. The event will include music, adult beverages, cold pressed juices and small bites. Tickets via Eventbrite. africalovestore. com.
“PASSING IT ON: THE ART OF JOHN T. SCOTT”: A book talk with authors Anna Rita Scott and Freddi Williams Evans, sponsored by the Helis Foundation John Scott Center, will be held May 22, 6–8 p.m., at the Contemporary Arts Center of New Orleans, 900 Camp St. in New Orleans. Registration via Eventbrite is encouraged. eh.org.
”HARLEM RHAPSODY”: The Tanya Time Book Club will meet in person for brunch and a book chat with Victoria Christopher Murray, author of “Harlem Rhapsody,” at the Omni Royal in New Orleans, 621 St. Louis St. in New Orleans. A meet-and-greet and book signing will be included. Tickets start at $148.75 via Eventbrite.
”THIS COULD BE PARADISE”: New Orleans native M.C. Terriche celebrates her debut book with a meet-and-greet book signing on May 25, 1-2:30 p.m., at Blue Cypress Books, 8123 Oak St. in New Orleans. www.bluecypressbooks.com.
Included are pop-up tastings inspired by the dishes and diners of the juke joints on the Chitlin’ Circuit. More details at nolajazzmuseum.org.
MOVIES
PRODUCER’S CHOICE FILM
SERIES: The New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll Circle in New Orleans, will present a new film series in collaboration with award-winning producer and filmmaker Meryl Poster. Four films selected by Poster will screen, accompanied by a conversation with Poster and other leading figures.
“The Talented Mr. Ripley” will be shown May 21, 6 p.m., at NOMA’s Lapis Center for the Arts, followed by a conversation with Poster and actor Jude Law. “Cinema Paradiso” will be shown May 28, 7 p.m., outdoors at NOMA’s Besthoff Sculpture Garden. “The Wings of the Dove” will screen June 4, 6 p.m., followed by a conversation with Poster and NOMA Director Susan M. Taylor. “Chocolat” will be shown June 11, 6 p.m., followed by a conversation with Poster and screenwriter Robert Nelson Jacobs. A limited number of tickets are available for each screening. Tickets are $10 for NOMA members and $15 for the general public. noma.org/ producerschoice.
BOOKS
“WHAT MY FATHER AND I DON’T TALK ABOUT”: Editor Michele Filgate will be in conversation with Maurice Carlos Ruffin about her recent collection of essays, “What My Father and I Don’t Talk About: Sixteen Writers Break the Silence,” on May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Baldwin & Co., 1030 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans. Free, but signed copies and admission to a meet-andgreet are available starting at $34 via Eventbrite. www baldwinandcobooks.com.
“THE JEWISH SOUTH”: Author Shari Rabin will present a book talk on May 22, 6-7:30 p.m., at the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience, 818 Howard Ave. in New Orleans. A book signing and reception will follow.
“CARO GIOVANNI” (“DEAR JOHN”): Author Madelaine Landry will talk about her book on May 24, 11 a.m., at the American Italian Cultural Center, 537 S. Peters St. in New Orleans. Tickets are $10. aiccnola.org.
“THIS COULD BE PARADISE”: Writer M.C. Terriche will sign copies of her debut book at the Blue Cypress Books, 8123 Oak St. in New Orleans on May 25, 1 p.m. www.bluecypressbooks.com.
“GEORGE VALENTINE DUREAU: LIFE AND ART IN NEW ORLEANS”: Author Howard Philips Smith will sign copies of his new publication from University Press of Mississippi on May 28, 2-4 p.m., at The Historic New Orleans Collection, 520 Royal St. in New Orleans. Free. Later that day, 6-7:30 p.m. at the Williams Research Center, 410 Chartres St., Smith will discuss the life
painting their own cityscape of New Orleans at night. Participants are encouraged to bring photo reference images for the workshop. All painting levels are welcome, but some painting experience will be helpful. All materials are provided. Fees are $45 for members, $50 for nonmembers. https://ogdenmuseum.org/ event/artist-workshop-25/. STORM AWARE AND PREPARE: Pontchartrain Conservancy will host the sixth storm preparedness event May 31, 9 a.m.-noon, at New Canal Lighthouse, 8001 Lakeshore Drive in New Orleans. This free, family-friendly event will provide free hurricane preparedness resources and supplies for the 2025 hurricane season. https://scienceforourcoast.org/. JUNIOR DEPUTY PROGRAM: Registration is open for the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office annual Junior Deputy Academy. Students aged 10-12 who reside in the parish can acquire essential skills for responsible citizenship and ethical conduct through the program. Modeled after the Sheriff’s Office Citizens Police Academy for adults, the Junior Deputy Academy will be held June 2-6, 10
”HABITATIONS”: New Orleans resident Sheila Sundar will discuss her debut novel with Deesha Philyaw on May 27, 6-8 p.m., at Baldwin & Co., 1030 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans. Tickets for a signed copy and admission to the meet-and-greet start at $23.04 via Eventbrite. www baldwinandcobooks.com.
”RAINBOW FLEUR DE LIS:” Author Frank Perez celebrates the release of his anthology of short essays, “Rainbow Fleur de Lis: Essays on Queer New Orleans History,” on May 29, 6 p.m., at the Garden District Book Shop, 727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. Following readings from the book will be a Q&A and book signings. www gardendistrictbookshop.com.
SUMMER READING KICK OFF PARTY: Barnes and Noble, 3721 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie, will host a series of book signings on May 31. Children’s authors signing at 11 a.m. are Jeanette Weiland, Gary Alipio, and Mary Beth Broussard. At 1 p.m. are Margaret McCoy, Vernon Smith, Alexandra Navarre Davis, Cher Hunt, and Dennis Nguyen. The author signing at 3 p.m. is Abby Greenbaum Roniger. stores. barnesandnoble.com.
FUNDRAISERS/GALAS
AMERICAN SPIRIT AWARDS: The National WWII Museum will honor award recipients at 945 Magazine St. in New Orleans on May 29-30. A recipient and patron reception is Thursday, with the gala on Friday night, recognizing Donald T. “Boysie” Bollinger, C. Paul Hilliard and Gordon H. “Nick” Mueller. The museum will also bestow the annual Billy Michal Student Leadership Award to one student from each state and the District of Columbia. nationalww2museum.org.
SPORTS GIRLS FLAG FOOTBALL: Registration is open May 1-25 for the new St. Charles Parish Department of Parks and Recreation girls’ program. The season will run during July and August. All registrations must occur with the individual participant’s affiliated booster club. scpparksandrec.com/flag-football.
CLASSES
LINE DANCING: Registration is open for summer line dance classes through the St. Charles Parish Department of Parks and Recreation Classes will be held Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. starting June 2, in the Edward A. Dufresne Community Center Gymnasium, 274 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway in Luling. Registration is open to those 18 and older for the nine-week session at $20. www.scpparksandrec.com.
ARTIST WORKSHOP: Teaching artist Ben Hamburger will present “Painting New Orleans at Night” on May 24, 10 a.m.- 1 p.m., at Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St. in New Orleans. Participants will explore works from the exhibition, “Crescent Cityscapes: Images of New Orleans from the Permanent Collection,” and touch on nocturne painting tips before
theatre.com.
CAMPS
LOUIS “SATCHMO” ARMSTRONG SUMMER JAZZ CAMP: Registration is open for the camp, which runs June 2-20, at the New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts, 2800 Chartres St. in New Orleans. Jazz camp classes have traditionally been offered in woodwinds, brass, piano, electric and upright bass, drums, strings, vocals, large and small ensembles, big band, hip hop, as well as swing and second line dance. No auditions required. Tuition varies for in-state, out-of-state and returning students. louisarmstrongjazzcamp.com.
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 Monday-Friday, 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 CAMPS: Nunez Community College will offer more than 10 multiday camps this summer for students in grades 1-12. Prices vary by camp. All camps will take place on the Nunez campus, 3710 Paris Road in Chalmette, and most will meet from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the designated dates. See Nunez.edu/STEAM for details.
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. Camp hours are 9 a.m.-3 p.m., and aftercare is available, 3:30 p.m.-5 p.m. for a fee. The cost is $180 per week for weeks 1-5, $140 for week 6, or $940 for all six weeks. www brothermartin.com.
FILE PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD
The Hellenic dancers perform during the 2024 New Orleans Greek Festival at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral in New Orleans. This year’s fest is May 23-25.
FILE PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD
Festivalgoers dance at the Louisiana Cajun Zydeco Festival, coming up this year May 31-June 1
