sential American holiday and the flag is its most visible symbol, but many Americans are unaware that flying the flag is regulated by a set of rules enshrined by the second Continental Congress in 1777.
The U.S. Flag Code, known in legal circles as Title 4, United States Code, Sec. 1, lists a detailed set of criteria specifying how the flag is to be displayed, handled and disposed of, said John Wachter, a three-year trustee and former commander of New Orleans VFW Post 8973. Wachter said serving in the Navy made him a strong advocate for proper flag etiquette.
“Many people are unaware of the rules for the proper handling of an American flag,” Wachter
said. “It all boils down to showing respect for the flag and all that it stands for.”
Sometimes people who love the flag the most end up unintentionally disrespecting it.
“We have First Amendment rights, so people can do what they want with their beliefs, but wearing the American flag is considered disrespecting the flag,” Wachter said.
The American Legion (www.legion.org) points out a distinction here.
“Unless an article of clothing is made from an actual United States flag, there is no breach of flag etiquette whatsoever People are simply expressing their patriotism and love of country by wearing an article of clothing that happens to be red, white, and blue
ä See FLAG, page 2G
GO 4TH ON THE RIVER: New Orleans’ annual Independence Day free fireworks display will be held July 4 at the New Orleans downtown riverfront, starting at 9 p.m. with a 17-story tall patriotic peacock tail fan created by Pyromania Fireworks. Other activities during the day include performances by the Irish a cappella group Trinitones at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. at Oscar Dunn Park, 768 Decatur St. in New Orleans, across from the Moon Walk, and a water show with plumes of red, white and blue fountains from the Gen. Roy S Kelley fireboat from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Port of New Orleans, 1350 Port of New Orleans Place. www.go4thontheriver.com.
HAPPY 3RD
moon.The first arrived during 1969’s Apollo 11 mission, when Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong planted a flag that NASA rigged to make it appear to be flying in the thin atmosphere. Five subsequent Apollo missions also placed flags.
WHO MAKES THEM?: The oldest and largest flag maker is based in New Jersey. Founded in 1847,Annin & Co. now produces more than 3 million full-size American flags yearly with factories in Virginia and Ohio. Its flags have flown in war at Olympic ceremonies, presidential inaugurations, on the moon and even covered Abraham Lincoln’s coffin. SCORES OF VERSIONS: There have been 27 official versions of the flag Each has had a different number of stars.And the flag didn’t always have 13 stripes. In 1794, Kentucky and Vermont were added to the Union, resulting in a 15-stripe flag In 1818, the third Flag Act reduced the number of stripes back to 13 and provided for one star for each state.
The earsplitting sounds and intense lights of fireworks can terrify
We are getting ready to celebrate July Fourth, and who doesn’t enjoy a good fireworks display?
Pets: That’s who. A beautiful fireworks show is a great way to celebrate our independence, but the loud bangs and booms, screeching sounds and bright flashes of lights can be downright terrifying for many pets. Even cats and dogs that are normally unfazed by loud sounds or lightning and thunder can become distressed by fireworks.
This distress can lead to a pet running way as it tries to escape the loud sounds. In fact, more pets are reported missing during celebrations that involve fireworks than any other time of year The Fourth of July is the number one day of the year for lost pets. Without a doubt, on July 5, our social media networks will be filled with posts of lost and found animals. Dogs have a more acute sense of hearing than we do, so the loud noises are tenfold for them. Also, fireworks are unpredictable, so dogs cannot get acclimated to the frequency or repetition of the sounds. This can cause serious stress and anxiety Whining, barking, panting, trembling, shaking, pacing, hiding, trying to escape, decreased appetite,
drooling, potty accidents, dilated pupils or wide eyes, and even vomiting are all signs of anxiety in canines. In severe cases of fear, seek advice from a veterinarian, as medication may be needed.
I’ve had dogs that were terrified of fireworks and ones that weren’t bothered. Thankfully, my current pet is in the latter category
Following are some tips to keep pets safe this Independence Day:
LEAVE THE PET AT HOME: It is never a good idea to take a dog to a fireworks display or to have it outside when setting off fireworks. Some dogs try to chase and catch the fireworks and can be seriously injured. Also, allow for accidents. If you are away from home, do not be surprised if the dog
Traci Howerton ANIMAL RESCUE
UNCLE SAM JAM: “American Pie” singer Don McLean and country musicians Shenandoah will headline
30th edition of the free Uncle Sam Jam in
STAFF PHOTO BY BRETT DUKE Children wave flags as fireworks light up the sky during the Uncle Sam Jam at Lafreniere Park in Metairie.
with stars and stripes.”
The flag code specifies that it should be flown only between sunrise and sunset, Wachter said, and if flown after dark, it should be illuminated.
It’s OK to fly the flag in the rain, but it should never be draped over anything or used as decoration. Keeping the flag clean is paramount.
“The flag should never touch the ground,” Wachter said. “When I was in the Navy, we had someone there to catch the flag when we were taking it off the flagpole to keep it off of the ground.”
It’s OK to wash or dry clean it, depending on the fabric.
It’s also important to fold a flag when storing it.
“Fold it with respect and don’t crumple it up into a ball and toss it into a closet,” he said.
Tom Cressionnie, publicity chairperson for Elks Lodge No. 30 in Metairie, said proper disposal of a flag is important.
“When a flag becomes threadbare, it should never be thrown away in the trash. It should be disposed of properly and replaced with a new one,” Cressionnie said. “At our Flag Day ceremony, people bring old flags for the Scouts to burn at a later date.”
While there is no specific ritual for a ceremonial flag burning, the flags should be
burned until they are completely incinerated.
Cressionnie has been flying the American flag at his home for more than 30 years.
Louis Rodrigue, Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 223 in Kenner, said his troop collects retired flags from the community and then holds a flag-burning ceremony.
Each flag is burned separately
“We salute each flag, and then we burn them one by one in a small fire,” Rodrigue said. “We are as respectful as possible.”
Rodrigue said Scouts participate in the Elks Flag Day program every year, and at the conclusion of the event, they lower the
old flag flying in front of the lodge and replace it with a new flag.
Cressionnie said the Elks organization was instrumental in establishing June 14 as Flag Day, which is a day of national observance but not a federal holiday They hold a special remembrance program every Flag Day that includes the history of the flag.
“Our Flag Day ritual covers the history of the American flag, and each flag that has flown over the country is presented by a Boy Scout and accompanied by a short historical narrative,” he said. “After the ritual that takes place in the lodge, we fly a new American flag and POW flag at the lodge.”
PETS
Continued from page 1G
left behind has been destructive or has a potty accident, as these are ways of coping with the stress.
KEEP PETS INDOORS: Keep the pets indoors and secure the home and yard. We never know when the fireworks celebrations will begin or end, as they often start a few days before and last several days after the holiday Adjust your regular routine and use extra precautions for the days surrounding a fireworks holiday Provide pets with a safe, quiet and secure area within the house. If you have guests over or children, make sure they do
not leave doors open for the pet to sneak outside.
PROVIDE A DISTRACTION: Turning up a television or radio to help buffer the noise from outside and may help minimize the stress. A good chew toy or a Kong filled with treats also are good distractions to keep the pup’s attention focused on something other than the loud sights and sounds.
TAKE CARE OF BUSINESS EARLY: If a dog is nervous, he will likely avoid going outside once the fireworks have started, so make sure all potty breaks are taken before the action begins. If he needs to go out during the festivities, bring the dog outside on a leash to prevent the urge to bolt. Even if the yard is fenced, a terrified dog can quickly dig or jump out.
PUT THOSE COLLARS AND TAGS ON:
Make sure pets are wearing collars and ID tags with upto-date information. This is a good time to make sure pets are microchipped and that the chip is registered with current information.
CHECK THE YARD FOR DEBRIS: After the celebrations have ended, check the yard for firework debris so pets do not ingest anything harmful. Let’s all have a safe, happy and stress free Fourth of July!
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.
FACTS ABOUT FLAGS
WHAT THE COLORS MEAN: White signifi
PRECISE SHADES: The exact shades of blue and red are numbers 80075 and 80180 in the Standard Color Card of America published by the Color Association of the United States. In
WHAT DOES THE DESIGN MEAN?: The stars and stripes have meanings.There are seven red and six white stripes on the flag representing the original 13 colonies.The 50 stars stand for the 50 states of the Union.
NO POLE? NOW WHAT?: A flag displayed on something other than a pole should be vertical, whether indoors or out, and suspended so that its folds fall free as though the flag were on a pole. The stripes may be displayed either horizontally or vertically against a wall, and the union should be uppermost and to the flag’s own right (that is, to the observer’s left).
WHAT IF IT TOUCHES THE GROUND?: While the Flag Code states that the flag should not touch anything beneath it, including the ground, that means care should be used in handling to protect it from becoming soiled or damaged.You are not required to destroy the flag if this happens, but you might need to wash it.
SOURCES: www.legion.org www.countryliving.com
CELEBRATIONS
Continued from page 1G
group Bottomland, Louisiana artist Payton Smith and the National WWII Museum’s Victory Belles. Fireworks will cap off the festivities. Gates open at 3 p.m. at the Al Copeland Concert & Meadow Stage in Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd. in Metairie. www.visitjeffersonparish.com.
ST BERNARD SALUTES
AMERICA: Louisiana singer Adam Pearce and six-piece variety band Epic will play July 4 in the parking lot at the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center, 8245 W. Judge Perez Drive in Chalmette.The family-friendly event starts at 5 p.m., with live music at 5:30 p.m. and fireworks at 9 p.m.
ST JOHN THE BAPTIST PARISH: St. Peter Catholic Church, 1550 La. 44 in Reserve and St John the Baptist Catholic Church, 2349 La. 18 in Edgard, will celebrate on July 2, 6-9 p.m., with a fireworks show at each church on opposite sides of the Mississippi River www.sjbparish.gov
ST CHARLES PARISH: The 35th annual celebration will be held on July 3, 6-9:30 p.m., at the West Bank Bridge Park, 13825 River Road in Luling A fireworks show will happen at 9 p.m. Entertainment will be provided by Ryan Foret and the Foret Tradition. Food trucks will also be on site. scpparksandrec.com.
GRAND ISLE: Live music at the Tarpon Rodeo Pavilion featuring Lauren Lee, Shorts in December, and the legendary Wayne Toups on July 4; fireworks at Bridge Side Marina from 10 p.m. to midnight on July 5.
PATRIOTIC CONCERT: The New Orleans Concert Band, under the
direction of Patrick Hennessy, will perform a free Fourth of July concert at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St in New Orleans, on July 4 at 12:30 p.m. ogdenmuseum.org
FOURTH OF JULY FEST: Dat Dog presents its Independence Day celebration with music, beer and hot dogs on July 4, 4-6 p.m., at 5030 Freret St. in New Orleans. The highlights include a hot dogeating contest with the winner receiving a $500 cash prize. www datdog.com.
PET OF THE WEEK
Expo is just one year old and fresh out of shenanigan training camp. He’s ready to help make the world smile. He gets along with any range of feline personality Zany baby kittens to old, senior grumps, there’s no one that won’t fall head over paws for him. To learn more, email adoption team@animalrescue neworleans.org
PROVIDED PHOTO
STAFF FILE PHOTO BY HILARY SCHEINUK
American flags adorn a yard along the sidewalk.
The U.S Marines Corps Band will part of the Happy 3rd of July celebration at City Park. FILE PHOTO
PHOTO BY ELIZA MORSE
The fireworks display at the annual Happy 3rd of July Concert and Fireworks in City Park.
STAFF FILE PHOTO BY JOHN MCCUSKER
Go 4th on the River climaxes with the annual fireworks display in New Orleans. Spectators lined the levee at Algiers Point for riverfront seats.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
WEATHERING THE STORM:
AN ENVIRONMENTAL FORUM: Healthy Community Services hosts panels of professionals such as meteorologists and young environmentalists to talk about how they mentally prepare for storms and the subsequent fallout
The forum will be held July 4, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., at the Renaissance New Orleans Arts Warehouse District Hotel, 700 Tchoupitoulas St. in New Orleans. Free registration is available via Eventbrite. www.hcsnola.org
MAAFA CELEBRATION: Ashé Cultural Arts Center will sponsor a commemoration of MAAFA, Kiswahili for “great tragedy,” referring to the period called the Middle Passage or Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, on July 5, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. A procession of drummers, dancers, healers, artists, activists and musicians will start at Congo Square, 701 N. Rampart St. in New Orleans, and parade to Spanish Plaza 2 Canal St. www.ashenola org/maafa.
LATE NITE LASERS: Kenner Planetarium and Megadome Cinema present laser shows on Fridays in July July 11 will feature Laser Retro at 7 p.m., Laser ABBA at 8 p.m., and Dark Side of the Moon at 9 p.m. at 2020 Fourth St. in Rivertown in Kenner. Additional shows will be presented July 18 and July 25. Box office opens at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person per show. expressoticketing.com.
GALAXYCON NEW ORLEANS: The three-day festival of fandom celebrating comic books, pop culture, sci-fi, fantasy, anime, gaming and cosplay will take place July 11-13, with celebrities, artists, writers, cosplayers, wrestlers, fan groups and more.
It’s at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, 900 Convention Center Blvd in New Orleans. Hours are 2-8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m Sunday. Tickets start at $40. galaxycon.com
SALON SUPPER CLUB: The New Orleans Museum of Art’s second event in their food- and art-focused series, celebrating “A Taste of West Africa and New Orleans,” will take place on July 17, 6-9 p.m., at One Collins C. Diboll Circle, New Orleans. Guest chef will be Serigne Mbaye, co-owner and chef of Dakar NOLA, winner of the 2024 James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant. Tickets start at $150 noma.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 take place almost every Friday through August 6:30 p.m.-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 water park. Tickets start at $50. For details, see www.audubonzoo.com/sip
SPRAY PARKS: The St. Charles Parish Department of Parks and Recreation has officially opened Ormond Spray Park and West Bank Spray Park. Summer operating hours will be 1-6 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. www.scpparksandrec.com
SPLASH PARK: Kenner has opened its Splash Park at A.P. Clay Playground for the summer season. The park, located at 200 Decatur St., will be open May 23-Aug. 31 on Fridays 2-7 p.m. Saturdays 11 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sundays 2-7 p.m. The new and improved splash park is available to residents and visitors of all ages. www.kenner. la.us/219/Parks-RecreationDepartment.
CULTURE & CONCERTS
GREATER ST. STEPHEN MINISTRIES LIVE RECORDING: The Greater St. Stephen Ministries will celebrate 40 years of music with a live reunion choir recording on July 7, 6 p.m., at the church, 5600 Read Blvd in New Orleans. The recording will feature gospel music trailblazer Bishop Paul S Morton, gospel singer Micah Stampley, gospel singer Bishop Neal Roberson and more. It will showcase Grammy Award-winning artists Bishop Marvin L. Winans and PJ Morton, and songwriter-producer Elder Derrick Starks. Free. www.houseofgreater.org.
HISTORY OF ACTIVISM THROUGH COOKBOOKS: Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses will host historian Sarah Lohman on July 9, 6-7:30 p.m. in a virtual presentation on how cookbooks have been used to promote social causes throughout the ages. Lohman is an author and a columnist for Gastro Obscura, writing about rare foods. Registration via Eventbrite. hgghh.org.
HOT 8 CELEBRATION: Hot 8 Brass Band will perform live on July 10, 5 p.m., from the balcony of the New Orleans Jazz Museum, 400 Esplanade Ave. in New Orleans. nolajazzmuseum.org.
MOVIES
TEEN MOVIE MATINEE: West Bank Regional Library will screen the 2023 animated film “Spiderman: Across the Spider-Verse” at noon on July 5 at 2751 Manhattan Blvd. in Harvey calendar.jplibrary.net.
LAKESHORE MATINEE: “Moana 2,” the 2024 sequel to the 2016 animated musical, will be shown July 5, 2:30-4:30 p.m., in the library commons at the Lakeshore Library, 1000 W. Esplanade Ave. in Metairie. calendar. jplibrary.net.
FAITH
COMMUNITY OUTREACH: The Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International will host a two-part community outreach event in New Orleans on July 7. A Youth Empowerment Outreach 3-4:30 p.m., will focus on strategies youth can use
to strengthen their mental well-being. It will be held at Grace and Glory Family Worship Church International, 802 Third St. The unhoused care package distribution will provide critical summer relief and wellness resources to New Orleans’s unhoused population, including cooling kits, towels, socks, hygiene supplies and more. It will take place from 4-6 p.m. at Duncan Plaza, 343 Loyola Ave. www fullgospelbaptist.org.
SPIRITUAL RETREAT: St. Dominic Catholic Church will sponsor its biannual men’s retreat July 25-27 at the William J. Kelly Retreat Center, 510 N. 2nd St. in Bay St Louis, Mississippi. The retreat is open to men seeking a deeper understanding of Catholic faith and fellowship. Cost is $205, including transportation. Register online at stdominicparish.com/emmaus.
BOOKS
AUTHOR TALKS: Baldwin & Co. will host entrepreneur Jennifer Eastmond, author of “The AI Edge for Entrepreneurs,” and business strategist Joses Ngugi, author of “Unlock Your Hidden Income,” on July 10, 5-7 p.m., at 1030 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans. Book signing follows Free with registration through Eventbrite. www.baldwinandcobooks.com.
”SO HAPPY TOGETHER”: Garden District Book Shop will host author Olivia Worley in conversation about her new book, “So Happy Together,” on July 10, 6 p.m., at 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. Book signing follows. www gardendistrictbookshop.com.
”THE NEW YORK TRILOGY”: Illustrator Paul Karasik will sign the graphic adaptation of novelist Paul Auster’s series, “The New York Trilogy,” a postmodern take on detective and noir fiction, on July 10, 6-7:30 p.m., at Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St. in New Orleans. Book signing follows www.octaviabooks.com.
”THE JAILHOUSE LAWYER”: Baldwin & Co. will sponsor a live author talk with Calvin Duncan and Sophie Cull, co-authors of “The Jailhouse Lawyer,” moderated by Sr. Helen Prejean, on July 10, 6-8 p.m., at Georges Audito-
rium on the Dillard University campus, 2061 Gentilly Blvd. in New Orleans. Book signing follows. Admission, plus a copy of the book and access to the meet-and-greet, is $41.54 via Eventbrite. www baldwinandcobooks.com.
MEETINGS
NARFE: The Vernon L. Landry Chapter 1398 of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees will hold its monthly meeting and luncheon on July 9, beginning at 11 a.m. in the Sicilian Room at Rocky and Carlo’s Restaurant & Bar, 613 W. St. Bernard Highway in Chalmette. To commemorate the 14th anniversary of reforming after Katrina, there will be cake and ice cream. All members attending are asked to bring a bottle of shampoo and/or conditioner to donate to the Family Violence Program of St. Bernard. Pamela.e.mark1953@gmail. com.
CLASSES
FRENCH PERCUSSION WORK-
SHOP: Alliance Française de La Nouvelle-Orléans will host a workshop for kids ages 4-10 at the Robert E. Smith Library, 6301 Canal Blvd. in New Orleans, on July 3, 11 a.m. to noon. Local singer and musician Sarah Mahoney will lead children in exploring rhythms, songs and sounds from French-speaking cultures. Free; registration is required online at www.af-neworleans. org.
WARRIOR WRITERS: The national nonprofit that helps veterans and active duty service members connect, heal, explore creative avenues hosts a writing workshop July 10, 5-7 p.m., at Bastion Community of Resilience, 1901 Mirabeau Ave. in New Orleans. Veterans and active duty service members can meet in Bastion’s Purple Heart Room at 5 p.m. for dinner, followed by the workshop. lovella@ joinbastion.org.
LEARNING BEFORE LUNCH: The July 10 meeting will focus on self-care, led by Angela Chopin, a nationally boardcertified health and wellness coach and meditation and mindfulness instructor. The program will be held at
UNO’s Homer L. Hitt Alumni Center, 2000 Lakeshore Drive in New Orleans, beginning at 9:30 a.m. with coffee and pastry. The presentation begins at 10 a.m. Annual membership is $25 per person, $30 per couple/double or a $5 donation for an event. www learningbeforelunch.com.
BASIC KNIFE SKILLS: Registration is open for a three-hour workshop for adult learners on using knives in the kitchen, led by chef Ruth Varisco, on July 19, 10 a.m., at the Culinary Café in the Kane Building on the Nunez Community College campus, 3710 Paris Road in Chalmette. Participants will be guided in proper knife grip to maintain control and common and classical cuts. Registration is $55, with proceeds going to the Nunez Culinary Club. www.nunez.edu.
THURSDAY THEATRE GAMES: Crescent City Stage will offer improv, scavenger hunts and more for ages 6-12 in a Sherlock Holmes-themed twist on fun, fast-paced games that spark creativity and build confidence. No acting experience is needed. The games will be offered July 10, 17, 24 and 31, 4:30-5:30 p.m., at CCS Studio, 6063 Magazine St. in New Orleans. Registration for each session is $20. crescentcitystage.as.me.
“YES, AND…”: Liz Newcomer will lead a Crescent City Stage workshop on improv for non-actors July 18, noon3 p.m., at CCS Studio, 6063 Magazine St. in New Orleans. This low-pressure workshop helps adults build confidence, laugh out loud and say “yes” to new experiences. Registration is $75. crescentcitystage. as.me.
HOLLYWOOD ACTING SECRETS WITH STEVE ZISSIS: Crescent City Stage will hold a confidence-building workshop for adults that will introduce actors to Michael Chekhov, focusing on the same techniques used by Marilyn Monroe, Anthony Hopkins, and others. The workshop is taught by actor, writer and producer Steve Zissis (HBO’s “Togetherness,” Netflix’s “Rebel Ridge”). July 19, 1-4 p.m., at CCS Studio, 6063 Magazine St. in New Orleans. Registration is $75.
crescentcitystage.as.me.
MOVEMENT CLASSES: Mari-
gny Opera House’s summer residency artist will teach three types of classes. All run 6-7 p.m., with no late entry. July 7 and 14 will focus on creative/improvisational movement. July 8 and 15 will focus on body strength and conditioning. July 2, 9 and 16 will focus on Daoist breathing. Suggested donation is $10-20. Registration is
mechanics and awareness. All camps will take place in the Physical Activity Center on the Nunez campus, at the corner of West Liberaux and Lafontaine streets in Chalmette. Details on dates, times and fees, as well as registration, are available online. Nunez.edu.
SWAMP SCHOOL: Registration is open for the first of four weeklong 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 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Friday, 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.
ADVOCATE STAFF PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD
A celebration of MAAFA Kiswahili for ‘great tragedy,’ referring to the period called the Middle Passage or Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, will take place July 5 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. starting at Congo Square.
Résumés, other job-hunting skills are focus of workshops in Metairie
Jessica Rareshide, a career coach and owner of Rare Insight, will lead a series of three seminars on résumé writing at the East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.
n 6:30 p.m. July 7 – A panel of experts discuss the current job market.
n 6:30 p.m. July 14 — Your story and how to capture it in a résumé
button at the top left-hand side of the page. OPEN WORD: Adults interested in poetry, music, and writing can share and discuss poems and songs by either their favorite artists or their own original work at the Harahan Library, 219 Soniat St. Open Word is open to adults from 2 to 3 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month.
n 6:30 p.m. July 21 — Job search lagniappe: interview questions including those about compensation, and questions for the interviewer
SPELLING BEE WINNER: The winner of the recent EBR Adult Spelling Bee is Johnny Lipani. It’s the fourth time he’s placed first at the event.
He won a $20 gift certificate to the Friends Big Book Sale this fall at the Pontchartrain Center Words that tripped up contestants in the final round: hangar; camaraderie; rhythm; and diphtheria.
WAREHOUSE SALE: The Friends of the Jefferson Parish Library held a one-day warehouse sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, June 21, in the hallway by the meeting rooms of the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie Boxes containing CDs, fiction, cookbooks, romance and children’s books sold for $5; boxes containing DVDs sold for $10. The sale was over before it began, with all boxes taken by customers in 38 minutes.
GENEALOGY: Upcoming sessions at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie, are:
n 7 p.m. July 9 – Using FamilySearch.org
n 7 p.m. July 16 – Using Google for Genealogy
n 7 p.m. July 23 – Using Facebook for Genealogy
n 7 p.m. July 30 – Researching Female Ancestors
WELCOME BACK, KANOPY: After a long hiatus, the Kanopy moviestreaming app has been revived for all Jefferson Parish Library cardholders.
Enjoy thousands of feature films and documentaries 24/7 by logging into the library website and going to the digital library
POKEMANIA: Young patrons ages 6+ are invited to join the Pokemon Trainer Camp this summer on Wednesdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Jane O’Brien Chatelain West Bank Regional Library, 2751 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey Collect badges while learning about the world of this globally recognized animated character Parental supervision is required.
SUMMER READING PROGRAM: Below are the programs offered at the 16 JPL branches during the tail end of June and early July Patrons can scan the bar code on the Color My World pamphlet for a complete list of activities. The pamphlet is available at all JPLibraries.
Frank and Tammy’s Magic Show: Frank and Tammy have been making children laugh for more than 25 years.
n 11 a.m. July 7, Lakeshore Library
n 2 p.m July 7, North Kenner Library
n 11 a.m July 14, River Ridge Library
n 2 p.m July 14, Old Metairie Library
n 11 a.m July 18, Westwego Library Nature on the Geaux: Meet and learn about animals from all over the world in this interactive presentation.
n 11 a.m. July 2, River Ridge
Library
n 11 a.m July 7, West Bank Regional Library
n 2 p.m July 7, Live Oak Library
n 11 a.m July 8, Harahan Library
n 2 p.m July 8, East Bank Regional Library
n 11 a.m July 9, Avondale Library
n 3 p m July 9, Belle Terre Library
n 11 a.m. July 10, Lafitte Li-
brary
n 3 p.m. July 10, Wagner Library
Chatty the Mime: Join Chatty for 50 minutes of entertainment that includes miming, juggling and magic.
n 2 p.m. July 19, Terrytown
Library
n 11 a.m. July 22, Harahan Library
n 2 p.m. July 22, Rosedale Library
n 11 a.m. July 23, Avondale Library
n 3 p.m. July 23, Belle Terre
Library
n 11 a.m. July 25, Live Oak Library
n 2 p.m. July 25, Lafitte Library
n 11 a.m. July 28, West Bank Regional Library
n 2 p.m. July 28, East Bank Regional Library Theater with Ms. Jen: An interactive theatrical adventure designed especially for kids.
n 2 p.m. July 2, Westwego Library Mama Saba: African and Louisi-
ana folk tales, music, and dance with Mama Saba
n 11 a.m. July 15, Lakeshore Library
n 2 p.m. July 15, Rosedale Library
n 11 a.m. July 16, West Bank Regional Library
n 2 p.m. July 16, East Bank Regional Library
n 2 p.m. July 17, Wagner Library The Magic of Winston Helling Jr.: A family friendly magic show
n 2 p.m. July 12, Grand Isle Library
Hey Now Hooping: The fun kicks off with a dazzling hula hoop performance that will leave you inspired. Then, everyone will have the chance to learn new moves and practice
STAFF PHOTO BY BRAD BOWIE
ACharming Summer
C Cellebrate your favorite summer memories with charms from
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From animation to alligators, library summer events serve variety of interests, ages
BY JANE LEGROS Contributing writer
The free and fun events keep coming for the summer at New Orleans Public Libraries They span a variety of age groups and interests. See below for a sampling, and explore the full programming calendar at nolalibrary.org.
JULY 2
Stop Motion Animation with LEGOs, 3:30 p.m to 4:30 p.m. at the Nix Library 1401 S Carrollton Ave.
Experiment, create, or craft at this hands-on
STEAM event for children
ages 6-12
Bandana Art Teen Drop-In,
4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Keller Library & Community Center, 4300 S. Broad St. Swing by to color a 2025 Summer Fun & Reading Challenge bandana to bring home. For ages 11-18
JULY 3
Musique et Moi with Sarah Mahoney and Alliance Française, 11 a.m. to noon at the Smith Library, 6301 Canal Blvd. Get introduced to the French language through music at this bilingual workshop for ages 6-12.
JULY 5
Speed Puzzling Competition,
1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Algiers Regional Library, 3014 Holiday Drive Compete in teams of up to five people to see who can finish their puzzle the quickest. The first three teams to finish win prizes. For adults, ages 18 and up
JULY 8
Young Alligators and Louisiana Wildlife Introduction, 11 a.m. to noon at Nix Library, 1401 S Carrollton Ave., and from 2 p.m to 3 p.m. at the Dr Martin Luther King Jr Library, 1611 Fats Domino Ave.
Touch and handle Louisiana wildlife furs and skulls, plus young live alligators. For kids ages 6-12.
Art of Henna/Mehndi Workshop, 4 p.m. to 5:40 p.m. at the Central City Library, 2020 Jackson Ave.
Discover the traditional art of henna and get a design by Henna artist Mehwish. Bring home a small henna design and cone to practice. For ages 11-18.
Author Night: Chris Champagne talks about his “Secret Louisiana: An Unusual Guide” from 6:30 p m to 7:30 p.m. at Hubbell Library, 725 Pelican Ave. This indispensable guidebook for locals and travelers alike will take you off the beaten track and show you the well-hidden treasures of Louisiana.
Family Fun Night/Martes en Mid-City con la Familia, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m at Mid-City Library 4140 Canal St.
Hang-out time for Spanish-speaking/bilingual families with free activities, snacks and books.
READING CHALLENGE: The New Orleans Public Library’s annual Summer Fun & Reading Challenge is in full swing and readers of all ages — including adults — are encouraged to sign up.
This year’s challenge tasks participants with reading a total of 800 minutes and completing a variety of library-related activities, sponsored by the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library, the Jazz & Heritage Foundation, the New Orleans Tourism & Cultural Fund, and Raising Cane’s Participants get a free prize just for signing up. Kids get a free book of their choice, and adults can pick between a deck of cards or a New Orleans Public Library mug. Teens get to choose between a book or one of the adult registration prize options. After reading for 800 minutes and completing activities, participants can pick up their completion prize — a canvas tote featuring illustrations by local artist Sean Clark. Visit summerfun.nolalibrary.org for more information.
Jane LeGros is the director of marketing and communications for the New Orleans Public Library.
Mary and Bill Hebert
Algiers couple celebrates 65th anniversary
Mary and Bill Hebert, of Algiers, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary with a family dinner at Restaurant des Familles. The Heberts have five married children — Melanie, Pamela, Michael, Billy and Mark — along with 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Since Bill’s retirement from Freeport McMoRan, the couple has enjoyed gardening, volunteering and traveling to visit their family.
National Council of Jewish Women installs officers, recognizes members
Staff report
The National Council of Jewish Women, Greater New Orleans Section, met in June to install new leadership and celebrating the accomplishments of members Susan Greenberg and Diana Mann were installed as co-presidents for 2025-27. Greenberg has served as NCJW vice president of administration in charge of many special events. She also has served as an NCJW Fox 8 Defenders volunteer Mann has served as an active board member and as corresponding secretary on the executive committee.
Other officers installed were vice presidents Leslie Fischman, Michele Gelman, Robin Goldblum, Carol Newman and Killian Philipson.
Treasurer is Kathy Shepard,
and assistant treasurer is Tricia Kirschman. Corresponding secretary is Lilli Geltman Vohs, and financial secretary is Loel Samuel. Gail Chalew is the ex officio past president. Newly elected members of the board of directors are Ellen Balkin, Maureen Gershanik, Wendy Goldberg, Susan Hess, Baty Landis, Amanda Loflin Jennifer Nierman, Jackie Stern, Lynne Wasserman and Heide Winston.
New nominating committee members are Gail Pesses, chair; Susan Hess, ex officio past chair; Gail Chalew, ex officio past president; Hallie Timm Bonin, Ina Davis, Carol Newman and Dana Shepard, members from the board; and Robin Giarrusso, Shayna Goldfine, Leslie Rau and Alanna Rosenberg, members
from the general membership. Gail Chalew was recognized at the meeting for her years of leadership heading the organization. The event included the presentation of the Harold Salmon Sr Award to Susan Hess, honoring exceptional volunteerism, leadership and service to the group Hess served as president from 2019 to 2021, initiated a virtual series on antisemitism, co-chaired the Endowment/Legacy Committee and chaired the Hannah G. Solomon luncheon, numerous NCJW fundraising events and the 2025 nominating committee. NCJW is the oldest women’s volunteer organization in the United States. There are sections in 34 states and the District of Columbia. The Greater New Orleans Section, founded in 1897, has about 1,000 members.
SCHOOL NOTES
STAFF PHOTO BY BRETT DUKE Tweens can use Legos to create stop motion animation at the Nix Library.
PROVIDED PHOTOS
Past and current National Council of Jewish Women Harold Salmon Award winners for volunteerism, pictured from left, are Tricia Kirschman, Dana Shepard, Ina Davis, Shellye Farber Barbara Kaplinsky, Susan Hess, Loel Samuel Sue Singer Barbara Greenberg and Kathy Shepard.
Loel Samuel, installing officer of the National Council of Jewish Women, Greater New Orleans Section, is shown with Diana Mann, far left, and Susan Greenberg, far right, the 2025-2027 co-presidents
PROVIDED PHOTO
The class of 1960 from the former St. Joseph Academy recently came together for a reunion. The school, then on Ursulines Avenue in New Orleans, was an all-girls Catholic high school founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph in 1868. The Class of 1960 was the last class to graduate from the Ursulines Avenue location. Attending the reunion were, front row from left, Virginia Fischer Grubb Lucille Brown Lebreton, Patricia D’Angelo Rodrigue, Mary Catalanotto Landry Clare Stoltz Leaumont, Lynne Toca Fruchtnicht, Gail Chassaniol Segrave, Dorothy Gernhauser Murphy; middle row, Peggy McGary Granier, Beverly Hoffecker Abadie, Betty Jane Grass Rudiger, Lorraine Pescay Martin, Doris Valenza Bourgeois, Elaine Adair Bourgeois, Ronnie Rensch Dorvin, Lynn Godelfer Blankenship, Jean Theriot Neumeyer, Sherry Theriot Hartdegen, Judy Ryder Bascle; and back row, Carole Farnet Cheramie, Andree Laudumiey Bothe, Marcia Chassaniol McCune, Beth Senac and Sylvia Guidry.
