New digs
Animal Rescue New Orleans opens state-of-the-art shelter, finally
This year marks 18 years that I have been a volunteer with Animal Rescue New Orleans. And for nearly 20 years, the rescue organization — known as ARNO operated out of a warehouse in the Elmwood business district that was converted into a shelter. With help from the community, that’s finally changed. Construction of the new shelter, at 160 Brookhollow Esplanade in Elmwood began in early 2024, and animals were moved in earlier this year ARNO celebrated its new shelter and adoption center recently with a ribboncutting ceremony and grand opening festivities.
After years of fundraising and a generous donation from Frank and Paulette Stewart and family, ARNO was able to purchase a building and get it completely renovated into a proper shelter, fit with state-of-the-art facilities.
A huge challenge
The dream for ARNO always had been to have a real shelter But with a shoestring budget, it sometimes felt like that would never become a reality
The old warehouse didn’t have central air and heat. We didn’t have a drainage system for cleaning the kennels We didn’t have a lot of green space for the dogs to run and play Walking the dogs in an industrial area with 18-wheelers often traversing the street was sometimes a challenge. But we did it. And we did it without funding from any local or state government entities. ARNO has always survived on donations, grants and the dedication and determination of our staff and volunteers
Despite the conditions of the shelter, we made sure our animals were always cared for That they were warm and cozy with heat lamps and plenty of blankets in the winter and they had porta-cooler fans, frozen water bottles and shade in the summer. We had a sprinkler system on the roof to cool the metal building.
We may not have had fancy amenities, but our animals were always happy and healthy
ART IN SESSION
BY MADDIE SCOTT Staff writer
Carpools and camp T-shirts were things Brooke Stewart never thought she’d face as the mother of a nonverbal child with autism.
“I’ve been experiencing things for the first time,” Stewart said. “Like putting labels in her camp shirts. People do that every year, and I never thought that I would be able to do that with my girl.”
This year, 6-year-old Ava joined Camp Benny, a summer camp for children with autism.
Ava uses an augmentative and alternative communication device, so she’s not always able to talk about how the day went, Stewart said.
“But I just knew by her mannerisms and her smiling down the hallway when she was getting ready to leave,” Stewart said. “I just knew in my heart that she had a great day.” Stewart said it was a complete change in behavior for Ava. And this was after one day of summer camp.
Ava gets almost five more weeks of fun.
What is Camp Benny?
This is its first year, with the help of Kidcam Camps, an operations company with 30 locations across the Southeast. Running five days a week at the University of Holy Cross in Algiers, Camp Benny gives autistic children the attention necessary to thrive and allows parents much-needed time to
tend to their jobs and other responsibilities.
“It’s a puzzle piece for parents,” said Kidcam Camps President and CEO Melissa Conner “Putting together, you know, one-week programs here and there if they do exist, and the truth is, there aren’t enough.”
About 25% of the net proceeds from the 2024 Beignet Fest were dedicated to Camp Benny costs, which is why the camp’s logo is a beaming beignet named Benny The rest of the funds are supplied by grants, donations and camp tuition.
Amy Boyle Collins, co-founder and board chair of the Beignet Fest Foundation, started Beignet Fest in 2016 with the idea of eventually funding a summer camp for autistic children.
In 2024, Collins decided it was time to start bringing the idea to fruition.
“As a mom who has a child on the spectrum, I value the opportunity that is being provided here,” Collins said. “Yes, it’s the children having fun and developing skills, but it’s also the impact on the parents who can drop off their kid and go to work and know that they’re in a safe environment.” Collins remembers scouring the city every summer for a program for her son. Some mainly serve neurotypical children but designate a few spots for those needing accommodations, Collins said. To increase the camp’s accessibility, 50% of families receive financial assistance.
Traci Howerton ANIMAL RESCUE
STAFF PHOTO BY SOPHIA GERMER
Erin Cessna draws mustaches on campers with chocolate at the French-themed booth during the Country Day Creative Arts Banquet
ä More photos. PAGE 2G
Sebastian Prevost, 7, sits with volunteer camp counselor Lucca LaBruzzo.
STAFF PHOTO BY SOPHIA GERMER
Ava Whitted, 6, looks at a book during Camp Benny.
CAMP CREATIVITY
A five-week summer arts intensive for ages 7-13 recently brought kids from over 60 Greater New Orleans schools to Metairie Park Country Day school in Metairie. The picnic and fun day shown here marked the halfway point with a series of interactive booths. The young artists submitted ideas for activities and staff helped bring some of them to fruition.
explore different activities
Winning Gold Team members are, from left, William White, Jimmy Ruckert, Mickey Bordes, Kyle Condon, David Amoss, Paul Sparacello, Neal Walsh, Jimmy Buchler Scott Sarrat, Joe Schick and Brian Gannon. Not pictured is team captain James Oterling
PROVIDED PHOTOS White team JCCA champions are, from left, Christian Generes, Chris Wilson, Will McSweeny, Arthur Mora, Chad Caldwell, team captain Greg Dadlez, Neuville Hotstream, Jay Raque and Michael Seaman.
Kids play in bubbles at the ‘Petacular Booth.’
Valerie Morrison and Remy Norton play with a giant ball
Campers put their hands in a vat of gel beads.
Campers
during the Country Day Creative Arts banquet.
STAFF PHOTOS BY SOPHIA GERMER
Isabella Dennis throws pigment during the Country Day Creative Arts banquet.
DISCOVERY SCHOOLS: Sharon Preen, a founding academic architect of the Discovery Schools network, is its new chief executive officer, succeeding founder and CEO Patty Glaser upon her retirement. Preen has served as chief administrative officer of Discovery Schools since 2015. She has more than 25 years of experience working in charter, private and university-based schools Preen holds a master’s in education from UNO and a bachelor’s in history from Tulane.
child’s application, exploring available learning centers, checking application status and addressing any enrollment questions. Applicants should bring photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, visa, passport); child’s birth certificate, visa or passport; proof of residence (current lease, Entergy bill, cable bill); proof of income (four recent check stubs and/or other documentation) and birth certificates for all minor household members.
LOUISIANA VIRTUAL CHARTER ACADEMY: Mileena Fontenette has been named a member of the National Society of High School Scholars. Fontenette is a member of the National Honor Society at her school. The NSHSS recognizes top scholars who have demonstrated leadership, scholarship and community commitment.
JULY 9: The session will be held 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Dorothy Height Charter School, 3501 Seine St. JULY 16: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Westbank NOLA-PS Family Resource Center, 2401 Westbend Parkway; East NOLA-PS Family Resource Center, and Mahalia Jackson School, 2405 Jackson Ave
JULY 23: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Harmony Oaks Community Center, 2514 Washington Ave.
NEW ORLEANS PUBLIC SCHOOLS: In-person open enrollment events for Early Learning & Child Care programs will include help for starting or completing a
JULY 30: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Renew Moton Lakefront, 8550 Curran Blvd. EnrollNOLAPS.com.
PROVIDED PHOTO BY SUZANNE C. GRIM
Helping with the ARNO shelter ribbon-cutting on June 26 are, from left, Amanda Hoerner, Jefferson Chamber; Rachel Jeandron Caluda, Jefferson Chamber; Ruth Lawson, Jefferson Chamber; Laura Ross, ARNO; Ed Lilly, ARNO; Kathy Perra, ARNO; Ginnie Baumann Robilotta, ARNO; Jessica Vaccaro, ARNO; Arita Bohannan, Jefferson Parish council member; Hans Liljeberg, Jefferson Parish council member; Alyssa Hebert, Metairie Bank
SHELTER
Continued from page 1G
How it began ARNO was founded by volunteers as a grassroots organization in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Since 2006, the rescue organization has housed and placed more than 13,000 animals into loving homes. While a permanent building that allowed for a comfortable and nurturing environment always was the long-term goal, five years turned into 10 and 10 into 15, and it seemed we would be renting our “starter” shelter forever Not to mention weathering a few more hurricanes along the way How fitting that this dream finally became a reality on the eve of the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. ARNO was born out of that storm and as we approach this milestone anniversary we now have a shelter we can be proud of. The shelter that our animals, staff and volunteers deserve. But the truth is, I have always been so proud of
our little shelter that could on Plauche Street, and we did amazing things for the animals in our community in that warehouse. I can only imagine what we are going to be able to accomplish in the next 20 years now that we have a functional and beautiful new home for our animals to live in while they wait for their forever homes.
Events
JULY 12-13: Meet ARNO adoptable puppies and dogs at the GalaxyCon adoption event and raffle at the GalaxyCon New Orleans comic book and animé convention from 1-4 p m at the Ernest Morial Convention Center, 900 Convention Center Blvd New Orleans. Donations accepted. For more info, email info@animalrescueneworleans.org
Traci D. Howerton is the volunteer manager for Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO), a nonprofit, volunteerbased, no-kill shelter For more information on ARNO, visit www animalrescue neworleans.org.
PET OF THE WEEK
Mr. Dees is a great Dane and greyhound mix. He’s 4 years old, incredibly smart, sweet, and affectionate, making him the perfect companion for families with kids, but he needs to be an only pet. His gentle nature and playful spirit will win your heart. Mr Dees is also an athlete who loves to play ball and run. To learn more, email adopt@animalrescue neworleans.org
PROVIDED PHOTO
Preen
Fontenette
Also at the luncheon were Kristen Gallagher, at left, and Brother Martin Principal Ryan Gallagher Class of 2000.
Members of the Brother Martin Ladies of the Shield attending the luncheon were, front row from left, Lenee Crowley, Tara Roche, Melissa Landers, Amy Chauffe; middle row, Lindsay Munson, Jennifer Baur Natalie Sander; and back row, Aprille Casey, Jenny Schindler and Melissa Bergeron.
PROVIDED PHOTOS
Ladies of the Shield members pictured from left are Bobbie Leaumont, Jennifer Walker Cissy Yakelis, Kelly Forster Lauren Lopinto and Brandi Cascio.
CAMP
Continued from page 1G
A typical day
With 36 children ages 6-12 enrolled the camp is divided into two three-week sessions. The first session is solar system themed, so the children participate in cosmic-related activities like space yoga and moon crater painting The camp also welcomes visitors like police officers and firefighters, allowing the children to interact with community service members first-hand.
“We wanted to start small this year to be sure that we understood it, adjusted, made sure we were prepared and could do it well,” Conner said.
Routine is integral for ensuring smooth sailing at Camp Benny, starting with the front door sign instructing children to wash their hands. Once hands are squeaky clean, the fun begins. Weekly schedules detail all of the planned activities down to the snack-time menu
Tuesday was a water park day, so some children lined up at the door and then ran to the inflatable pool outside in one of the enclosed courtyards. Some children hung back, acclimating to the environment, as staff stood with them for support Once outside, campers hopped through sprinklers, swung pool noodles and sprayed water guns.
If a camper is expressing frustration, Camp Benny has two sensory rooms offering a temporary retreat from all the stimulations that come with summer camp. A staff member accompanies them until they’re ready to transition back to the schedule.
The staff includes 11 counselors, 13 volunteers called “buddies” and three leads: a director group leader and coordinator. All staff members go through what Conner calls “Kidcam University,” which is a compilation of online training courses. Staff members also attend a training course on working with autistic youth Camp Director Darbi Philibert said she interviewed 74 people.
“So, the people here are truly handpicked based on their desire to be here, their level of interest in this population and some experience,” Philibert said.
“It’s a dream we were able to pull this together in one year,” Collins said Teamwork makes the dream work Autism affects one in 31 children aged 8 years old, which could be compared to one child in every standard-sized classroom, Collins said, so the community’s demand for a program like this is high.
“I’ve been volunteering, I’ve been on boards and things like that for my whole career here in the city, and I have never gotten the immediate and strong response that I got when we started talking about this,” Collins said.
About $15,000 in donations came from the Tres Doux Krewe, an all-female philanthropic group started by Collins and three of her colleagues.
It currently has 48 members and a goal
of raising that number to 100.
Philibert started an Amazon wish list in February 2024 for things like sensory items and art supplies, and the community response was so helpful that Philibert was able to start a second wish list, which also ended in all checked boxes.
“I think it speaks to the spirit of partnership that individually, none of us could really pull it off, but together, we have,” Collins said.
The Beignet Fest Foundation fundraises year-round for the program with an eye toward expanding the camp next year to two locations that could handle more children.
A relief for parents
After years of enrolling her daughter in programs, only to pick her up early due to complications, Stewart said she sometimes ran out of vacation days from transporting Ava to and from camps.
When she heard about the program through Families Helping Families of Greater New Orleans, she signed up immediately
“It was the first day in my three years of work at my job where I didn’t have a call, and I was like, ‘Is this what it feels like?’”
Stewart said.
After the open house and day one of camp, Stewart described the operation as a well-oiled machine. On the morning of day two, Ava was eager to put on her Camp Benny shirt and get out the door
“I just didn’t think that was in our realm of possibilities,” Stewart said. “Camp Benny definitely is like my saving grace.”
Theodore ‘Teddy’ Holdsworth plays on his own.
STAFF PHOTOS BY SOPHIA GERMER
Cassius Eymard-Gaines, 4, plays with glow in the dark stars.
Veera Saunders, 7, sits quietly during snack time.
Durham Meyer, 11, and Joseph Moody, 7, share snacks during Camp Benny, a sensoryfriendly summer camp for students on the autism spectrum
LOCAL HISTORY
Hear the wild story of an 1880s police chief whose assassination led to a mass lynching
The year was 1890, and New Orleans Police Chief David C. Hennessy had been assassinated After a series of trials and mistrials, in March 1891, his death lead to the largest known mass lynching in U.S. history Derby Gisclair a local historian and frequent presenter at Jefferson Parish Libraries, will tell the whole story at 7 p.m. July 17 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. As a young lieutenant in 1881, Hennessy had captured a notorious Italian criminal named Guiseppe Esposito and others involved in his crimes, eventually leading to his promotion to chief of police.
After his assassination, with no legal action happening to suit them, a large crowd of locals forced open the doors of the prison and lynched 11 of the 19 Italian men who had been indicted Gisclair is the author of several books including: “New Orleans Steamboat Stories The Brief Lives of Mississippi Riverboats” and “Baseball in New Orleans.” His most recent book, “The Dixie Series, 1920-1958,” was released on May 1, 2023.
CHECKMATE: Chess fans of all ages, from novices to experts, can find a competitive board game at multiple branches of the Jefferson Parish Library, including:
n East Bank Regional Library: Adult Chess Club, 2 to 4 p.m. July 25
n East Bank Regional Library: Teen Chess Club, 2 to 4 p.m. July 26
n North Kenner Library: Backgammon and Chess Club, 10 to 11:30 a.m July 19
n Wagner Library: Chess Club (all ages), 2 to 4:30 p.m. July 19
n Harahan Library: Basic Beginner Chess for Kids, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. July 26.
GENEALOGY: A series of classes will be held at 7 p.m. every Wednesday in July at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon, Metairie. The topics are: n July 9 — Using FamilySearch.org n July 16 — Using Google for Genealogy n July 23 — Using Facebook for Genealogy n July 30 — Researching Female Ancestors.
PRACTICE MOVIE-MAKING: Bridge Lights is a workshop experience for filmmakers, writers, directors and actors at Lakeshore Library 1000 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie
The group meets at 6 p.m. each Thursday Two- to five-page scenes will be performed in a neutral space where actors and writers/directors can meet beforehand Group critiques are encouraged
KITTEN YOGA: Stretch, relax, and enjoy a fun yoga session surrounded by playful, adoptable kittens and cats from the Jefferson SPCA from 10 a.m. to noon July 10 at the East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon, Metairie.
This event is open to those ages 12 and older; no registration required Not ready to adopt? Consider donating much-needed supplies to support Jefferson SPCA and JPAWS in caring for animals in need Visit www.jeffersonspca.org to see a wishlist for Jefferson SPCA and JPAWS.
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 barcode 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 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 9, Avondale Library
n 3 p m July 9, Belle Terre Library
n 11 a.m July 10, Lafitte Library
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
Mama Saba: African and Louisiana 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 their skills.
n 2 p m July 17 Grand Isle
n 6:30 p.m. July 17 — Belle Terre Li-
brary
n 11 a.m July 21 — North Kenner Library
n 2 p.m. July 21 West Bank Regional n 6:30 p m. July 21 — West Bank Regional Library
n 11 a.m. July 24 — Old Metairie Li-
brary
n 6 p.m July 24 River Ridge Library
n 2 p.m July 12 — Terrytown Library
n 11 a.m July 21 — North Kenner Li-
brary
n 2 p.m. July 21 — West Bank Regional
n 11 a.m July 24 Old Metairie Library
NOLA Games on Wheels: The video game truck will be present.
n 2 p.m July 12 — North Kenner Library
n 5 p.m July 21 — East Bank Regional Library
Bollywood Dance Class: Dance to lively music and learn something new Adults only
n 2 p m July 12 — Belle Terre Library
n 11 a.m July 26 River Ridge Library
n 3 p.m. July 26 — Lakeshore Library
Chris Smith is manager of adult programming at the Jefferson Parish Public Library
BY JANE LEGROS Contributing writer
The New Orleans Public Library’s calendar is jampacked with free events for all ages. See below for highlights, and explore the full programming calendar at nolalibrary.org. Note that some programs require registration.
July 10
Paint Can Planter Upcycling: with the Green Project. 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Algiers Regional Library, 3014 Holiday Drive. Registration required. Decorate reclaimed pots with paint and love. For ages 9-12.
Robotics Workshop with Jesuit Robotics: 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Keller Library & Community Center, 4300 S. Broad St. Registration required.
Design and program robots to create a new and exciting city For ages 9-12.
Job Searching from A to Z: 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Algiers Regional Library, 3014 Holiday Drive. Registration required. Workforce development professional Susan Salamone will teach job seekers to effectively market themselves.
House of Schlock — A Bucket of Blood (1959): 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., East New Orleans Regional Library, 5641 Read Blvd.
An afternoon of B-movie horror, trivia, and history in the style of the classic horror hosts.
July 11
Safari, So Good: An Early Literacy Adventure: 10:30 a.m. to
11:30 a.m., Central City Library, 2020 Jackson Ave.
Practice developing early literacy skills with crafts, hands-on activities, and snacks in this safarithemed program for children ages 2 to 5 and their families.
Crescent Circus Magic Show: 11 a.m. to noon, Main Library, 219 Loyola Ave., and 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., East New Orleans Regional Library, 5641 Read Blvd.
A funny energetic, and interactive show for kids ages 6-12.
Story Hour with Drag Queen Laveau Contraire: 11 a.m. to noon, Alvar Library, 913 Alvar St. Read and sing along with local drag queen Laveau Contraire at this special family event.
July 12
From Storm to Strength — Preparing Our City, Empowering Our People with NOLA Ready, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., REACH Center, 2022 St. Bernard Ave.
A disaster preparedness and recovery seminar series in honor of the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.
Family Drop-In, Stories & STEAM: 10:30 a.m. to noon, Desire/ Florida NORD Center, 3250 Industry St. Drop in and hang out on Saturday mornings for stories, STEAM activities, and a snack.
Krewe of Muses Shoe Decorating Workshop: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Nix Library, 1401 S. Carrollton Ave. Registration required.
Decorate shoes with glitter and learn from the masters. For ages 9 to 18. The Secret Language of Bees:
with Carl Harrison Jr., 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Nora Navra Library 1902 St. Bernard Ave.
An engaging workshop for kids, age 6-12 blending storytelling, film, and hands-on learning. Vietnamese Spring Rolls Workshop: with Vy Linh. 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Algiers Regional Library, 3014 Holiday Drive. Registration required. For ages 11-18
July 15 Art of Henna / Mehndi Workshop: 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Main Library, 219 Loyola Ave. Discover the traditional art of henna and get a design by Henna artist Mehwish. For ages 11-18 Basic Bike Maintenance With Bokah Bikes: 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Dr Martin Luther King Jr Library, 1611 Fats Domino Ave. Learn the basics of routine bike maintenance, for ages 18 and up July 16
Robotics Workshop with Jesuit Robotics: 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Alvar Library, 913 Alvar St. Registration required. Design and program robots to create a new and exciting city For ages 9-12. Sewing Class for Adults: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Central City Library, 2020 Jackson Ave. Registration required. Learn to sew a reusable lunch sack. Beginners welcome.
Jane LeGros is the director of marketing and communications for the New Orleans Public Library
PHOTO
LESLIE WESTBROOK
Gisclair
COMMUNITY EVENTS
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.
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.
ROCKET DAY: STEM NOLA will host Rocket Day on July 12 from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the UNO Lakefront Arena, 6801 Franklin Ave. in New Orleans. This free, hands-on STEM event invites K-12 students to build, test and launch their own model rockets while discovering the science of aerodynamics, gravity and thrust. Students will learn from industry professionals and experts. Registration at registration.stemnola.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.
RED WHITE AND ROSE: Historic BK House & Gardens will host a wine tasting July 13, 6 p.m., at 1113 Chartres St. in New Orleans. The event celebrating American winemaking features tastings of American reds, white and rosés and light bites paired with each pour. Tickets start at $50. www.bkhouse.org/ programs.
BLOOD DRIVE: St. Pius X Church will host a blood drive on July 13, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., in the St. Pius X gym, 6600 Spanish Fort Blvd. in New Orleans. Appointments encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Donors will receive a mini health exam, including iron, blood pressure and cholesterol tests. TheBloodCenter.org
REVOLUTION ACROSS THE ATLANTIC: Historic BK House & Gardens will host an immersive sound experience in honor of Bastille Day on July 14 at 1113 Chartres St. in New Orleans. The event brings history to life in three uprisings: the 1789 French Revolution the 1791 Haitian Revolution and the 1811 Louisiana Slave
Revolt. Historic texts will be brought to life through performance, archival songs and poetry from three continents, drum rhythms and spirituals from Haiti and Louisiana and contemporary reflections by local artists. Tickets start at $5. www.bkhouse.org/programs.
BASTILLE DAY CELEBRATION: The celebration of French culture in New Orleans, sponsored by the French Market District, will take place July 14, 10-11:30 a.m., at Place de France next to the Market Cafe, 900 N. Peters in New Orleans. Festivities include a wreath laying at the Joan of Arc statue, music and light refreshments. www.frenchmarket.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
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.
STAGE DOOR IDOL: BB’s Stage Door Canteen opens its doors July 15, 6-8 p.m., for the first of four rounds of the National WWII Museum’s singing competition, which culminates Aug. 19 in the naming of the winner. All preliminary rounds and finals are open seating — first come, first served. Admission is $15 for all preliminary rounds, held
July 22 and 29 and Aug. 5. BB’s is located at 845 Magazine St. in New Orleans. www.nationalww2museum.org.
FAITH
SPIRITUAL RETREAT: St. Dominic Catholic Church will sponsor its biannual men’s Road Emmaus 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 Auditorium 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
Books redux
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.
ST. BERNARD COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS: The group formerly known as St. Bernard Volunteers for Family and Community (SBVFC) will hold its monthly meeting on July 17, 10: 30 a.m., at the Sicilian Room at Rocky and Carlo’s Restaurant and Bar, 613 W. St. Bernard Highway in Chalmette. Potential new members are welcome.
CLASSES
baldwinandcobooks.com.
“LIBERATION STORIES”: Baldwin & Co. will host a discussion by some of the authors of the handbook for telling stories that change the world, including Shanelle Matthews, Cierra Chenier and Marzena Zukowska, at the bookstore, 1030 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans on July 11, 6:308:30 p.m. Free; admission with access to the meet-and-greet and a signed copy of the book starts at $41.94 via Eventbrite. www.baldwinandcobooks. com.
“BLACK CAPITALISTS: A BLUEPRINT FOR WHAT IS POSSIBLE”: Author Rachel Laryea will be joined in conversation by Jarrett E. Cohen, founder of JeCohen, for a discussion on the themes, insights and real-world strategies found in her book on July 15, 6-8 p.m., at Baldwin & Co., 1030 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans. Free; admission with access to the meet-and-greet and a signed copy of the book starts at $39.50 via Eventbrite. www.baldwinandcobooks. com.
”THE DEVIL REACHED TOWARD THE SKY”: The National WWII Museum will host Garrett M. Graff discussing his book, “The Devil Reached Toward the Sky: An Oral History of the Making and Unleashing of the Atomic Bomb,” on July 16, 4:30-6:30 p.m., in the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion, 945 Magazine St. in New Orleans. A reception will begin at 4:30 p.m., with the event beginning at 5:30 p.m. A book signing will follow. Registration is available online for inperson attendance or virtual attendance via Vimeo. www nationalww2museum.org.
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
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.
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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.
CAMPS READING FOR JOY MINI-CAMP: STAIR (Start The Adventure In Reading) will hold two weeklong camp sessions, July 7-11 and July 14-18, at 1535 State St. in New Orleans. The camps, for rising secondfourth graders, will combine reading with activities each day 9 a.m. to noon. Week 1 is Reading and Art. Week 2 is Reading and Food. Cost is $50, which will be refunded if the child attends every day. Camp will provide snacks and water. More details at www stairnola.org.
NUNEZ YOUTH SKILLS CAMPS: Nunez Pelican baseball players and coaches will host a series of youth skills camps for children ages 7-12 in July. Camps will emphasize teaching and improving each camper’s 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
STAFF PHOTO BY BRETT DUKE
Cosplay fans will find three days of fun at Galaxycon New Orleans, coming up July 11-3. There will also be celebrities, artists, writers, wrestlers, fan groups and more.
Summer Havens scored big at the book sale, carrying out a whole box of her purchases.
Miriona Morrow, 7, holds onto her chosen book.
STAFF PHOTOS BY SOPHIA GERMER
Visitors browse books during the recent Really Big Used Book Sale at East New Orleans Regional Library.
