

A day in the life of a favorite Old Metairie postman — there’s even a path dedicated to him
BY MADDIE SCOTT Staff writer
After 33 years of delivering mail in Metairie, Earl Egan recently stumbled upon something he’d never seen before.
Egan, 60, stood in front of a house he’d visited nearly every day since becoming a letter carrier in 1987 at 23 years old. A brand new pebble pathway led to the lime-green door, and a yellow flag read “Postman’s Path” in blue letters. An embroidered mailman figure was labeled “Earl.”
“It was the coolest thing,” Egan said. “I remember just smiling and thinking how great it was that they actually made a separate path just for the mailman to cut through.”
Lynda Grass, 83, handmade the flag with her embroi-
More than 70 pediatric patients at Ochsner Children’s Hospital got a boost from Walmart employees, who shopped for $8,000 worth
dery machine in April after her husband, Carl Grass, 84, built the pathway The two have known Egan since they moved into their home in 1991.
Egan is a delight, Lynda Grass said, the type of person who always smiles and won’t pass you without saying hello.
“People say, ‘I don’t even know who my mailman is,’” she said. “Or ‘I don’t even know my mailman’s name.’ Earl is a real part of the community, of this area.”
Egan walks on the path every visit, Carl Grass said, but UPS and FedEx workers cut across the lawn instead, a difference he’s observed on the doorbell camera. It really is Egan’s pathway, after all.
“My own special spot,” Egan said.
The Grasses are only a drop in the bucket of the vast connections Egan has formed on his daily route across
a chit-chat connoisseur He’s a
I don’t have to tell you that it is hot, hot, hot outdoors right now And when we are not experiencing sweltering temperatures,
neighborhood historian and a master of mail.
Thinkin’ and prayin’
Raindrops began to slowly polka-dot Egan’s United States Postal Service buttonup, messenger bag and ball cap on a recent day. The drizzle was “mailman weather,” he said.
“Boy, does it feel good,” Egan said as a breeze passed by “This is what you appreciate about being a mailman.”
He had just parked his mail truck along the side of a residential street, swung the side door open, and gathered an armful of mail to begin his first relay
He separated each house’s mail with rubber bands, slipping them off the stack and onto his arms during each delivery Rubber bands are a hot commodity in the post office, he said, so he saves them.
Despite his social butterfly tendencies, delivering mail gives Egan time to reflect and ponder what matters to him, a ritual he calls “thinkin’ and prayin.’”
“I’ll be honest, what I do a lot is I pray, I think, I give thanks,” Egan said “How do you save the world? How do you do right by your wife? You’re out here thinking Yourself and God. So I just think a lot the whole time.”
As the rain grew, he took a quick break on the Grasses’ patio so the mail in his arms didn’t get wet, something he calls protecting the “sanctity of the mail.”
“Way back when, it was important information,” Egan said. “Everybody’s personal information their finance, license, anything, credit cards Everything came through the mail before the internet. This is everybody’s life, and that’s why it’s supposed to be treated with utmost respect.” To that end, there’s also the invention he calls a sweat board. A piece of cardboard is covered in yellow duct tape and wedged between his arm and mail stack. Think of it as a barrier so the mail doesn’t dampen
Recognized by his knock Egan has delivered mail for so long that some residents recognize him by his knock, a pattern in which he knocks four
Continued from page 1G
Obesity Prevention, about 59% of dogs and 61% of cats are overweight. Many pets gain weight for the same reasons people do — poor diet and lack of exercise. And just like humans, our pets can suffer from health problems such as heart disease, liver disease, arthritis and diabetes when they are overweight. Excess weight can also shorten a pet’s life span. Sometimes we don’t realize that our pet has packed on a few pounds, and appropriate weight ranges vary by size and breed Even a few pounds can make a big difference, especially for a smaller pet. Signs that a pet may be overweight include:
n Loss of an obvious waist
n The collar on a full-grown pet is getting snug and needs loosening n Slow movement n Shortness of breath
If Fluffy looks like he is starting to live up to his name, follow these five tips to help him get his summer bod back:
PROVIDE QUALITY FOOD: Switching to a healthier food will decrease the empty calories a pet takes in Avoid foods that feature corn, corn meal or wheat as the first or second ingredient, and instead choose foods with chicken or turkey listed first. These foods
times and rings the doorbell. If he repeats the steps, residents know to come to the door He did all this unconsciously until a resident commented on the habit.
If he needs to contact a resident for a postal-related reason, he calls their cellphones. Yes, about 20% of residents have his phone number, too, he said, and for those who don’t it’s easy to obtain. Often, residents call him to inquire about a package’s whereabouts or ask about the legitimacy of what may be a mail text scam.
Some residents, at one elderly condominium community in particular wait by the centralized wall of mailboxes just to converse with Egan.
“It’s like family out here,” Egan said.
have more protein for an active, healthy lifestyle.
PRACTICE PORTION CONTROL: Just a slight decrease in the amount of food a pet consumes can help with weight loss. Many of us always have food out for our pets. If the dog or cat is overweight, though, it is a good idea to have designated feeding times and to pick up the food outside of these set times.
TOSS THE TREATS: Many prepackaged dog treats have very little nutritional value for pets and are packed with extra calories. Decreasing the number of treats each day and opting for other forms of positive reinforcement, such as praise or petting, will help with weight loss Switching to healthy snacks, such as slices of apple or green beans, can help with weight control, while still providing a yummy treat.
“These people I guess they appreciate you. People are just nice. I like to believe that I put off the same vibes.”
Mail has changed
In today’s hyperdigital age, mail has unsurprisingly decreased in volume. He used to deliver about 10-12 feet of mail a day to now about 3 feet. Packages, however, are a different story. Way more packages than there used to be, he said. And many people don’t spend as much time outside as they used to. Some residences are exceptions he said, pointing at a home with toys and tricycles in the front yard.
“Definitely don’t see people outside
EXERCISE WITH CAUTION: It is unwise to exercise a dog in the heat of summer, so limit exercise to early morning or late evening when the temperatures are cooler Throwing the ball in the yard and even adding in small walks or a short jog a day can make a difference, but again, not during the hottest parts of the day For cats, engage them in play with toys to get them off the sofa and moving around. Exercising pets also leads to more exercise for owners, so it is a win-win situation.
TALK TO A VETERINARIAN: Before making any drastic changes, talk to your vet, as this is who will be able to tell you if your pet is overweight. Sometimes weight gain can be a sign of an underlying medical problem. A vet can properly evaluate the pet’s overall health and make recommendations for the best foods and the right amount of exercise for your pet’s individual needs. By choosing better nutrition, mindful portions and daily activity, you’re not just helping your pet keep the pounds off, you’re also giving him the chance at a longer, healthier life.
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.
Chiyco is a charming little 1-yearold beagle-corgi mix with short legs, a round belly and a heart full of love This low rider is sure to steal your heart. He’s a bit shy at first but Chiyco warms up with kindness and patience — and once he does, he becomes a loyal and playful friend. He gets along wonderfully with other dogs, too. To learn more, email adoptionteam@ animalrescueneworleans.org
PROVIDED PHOTO
like we used to. That’s who we see. Right there, the grass cutter,” Egan said pointing to a man cutting the grass. “That’s who we talk to You’re going to see the grass cutter, the UPS guy and the FedEx guy.”
Connections with residents like the Grasses feel all the more special in today’s age. He feels flattered that some folks are thankful for his role in the community
“I find it totally a compliment,” Egan said. “The way I do it is the way I was taught 30 something years ago. They call it, now going above and beyond, but it’s just the way I was taught. I’m providing service to the customer That’s what we’re here for.”
From exploring herbs to building an electrical circuit, libraries offer a wealth of activities
BY JANE LEGROS
Contributing writer
Tweens and teens can learn why herbs are healthy and healing and then whip up a revitalizing herbal drink at workshops coming up at two libraries. Grow Dat Youth Farm will bring mint, rosemary oregano, thyme, and other herbs for their “Herbs for all the Senses” session from 4 p.m to 5:30 p.m. July 30 at the Smith Library, 6301 Canal Blvd., and 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. July 31 at the Main Library, 219 Loyola Ave.
Attendees will create a fragrant wreath to take home and explore the emotional benefits and medicinal properties of these small leaves. The workshop is designed for ages 11-18 and is presented by Grow Dat’s Education Coordinator Jonshell Johnson. Registration is required. Visit events.nolalibrary.org to sign up.
CIRCUIT TRAINING: The New Orleans Public Library is teaming up with the Louisiana Energy Office to present two circuit-building challenges for kids on July 30 — one from 11 a.m. to noon at the Hubbell Library, 725 Pelican Ave., and the other from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Central City Library 2020 Jackson Ave.
Participants will explore circuits with pedal power to light up an LED firework tower Space is limited. Visit events.nolalibrary org to register
ABOUT THE BRAIN: Neurologist and author Pria Anand will visit the library via Zoom from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on July 31 to discuss her new book, “The Mind Electric,” which focuses on “the strangeness and wonder of our brains.” In this collection of medical tales, a neurologist reckons with the stories we tell about our brains, and the stories our brains tell us. Visit nolalibrary.co/pria-anand to register and submit your questions.
LOCAL COLOR: Get colorful at “Chalk About It,” a fun and creative chalk adventure at the Main Library 219 Loyola Ave., on July 31. Children ages 2-5 and their families are invited to stop by from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. to have fun while building foundational early literacy skills.
COFFEE BREAK: Take a coffee tasting journey with Hey! Cafe at Smith Library 6301 Canal Blvd., from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on July 31. Watch a coffee cupping demonstration, then taste a selection of coffees and learn about the flavors and aromas imparted by different varieties of beans. For adults ages 18 and up.
SPECIAL STORYTIMES: Families looking for a welcoming and comfortable space for neurodivergent children are invited to sensoryfriendly storytime at Latter Library every Saturday in August from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The library is located at 5120 St. Charles Ave. Space is limited and registration is required. Visit events.nolalibrary.org for more information.
Jane LeGros is the director of marketing and communications for the New Orleans Public Library
The Jigsaw Puzzle Extravaganza will take place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 9 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. There are three elements to this event.
n The swap: Patrons may bring their used puzzles to swap with others Each puzzle should have all of its pieces. Puzzles that remain untraded can be donated to the Friends of the Jefferson Public Library.
n The contest: Starting at 2 p.m., the competition involves teams of two attempting to complete a 500-piece puzzle by 4 p.m. The contest is limited to adults 18 years of age and older The first three teams to finish, or that make the most headway win prizes.
n The sale: Members of the Friends of the Jefferson Public Library will be present to sell puzzles that have been donated by patrons. Sales are cash only
WAREHOUSE SALE: The Friends of the Jefferson Public Library will sponsor a book and puzzle sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 9 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie
Come early to purchase the boxes of books, since past sales have sold out in less than one hour Boxes will be sold for $5 each. They include CDs, children’s books (E and J, fiction and nonfiction), cookbooks, and regular fiction (paperback and hardback).
DVDs will be sold for $10 per box. Boxes are labeled as to what category they contain, and cannot be opened prior to purchasing.
Pre-packaged Zip-Loc bags of school supplies will be sold for $3, $4, or $5, depending on what they contain.
In conjunction with the library’s Puzzle Extravaganza the same day, puzzles will be sold for $2 to $6 each. Payment may be made using cash or a credit card. For more information, Call the Friends at (504) 4552665 or email FriendsJPL@ Yahoo.com.
STAY CRAFTY: Knitting, crochet and other fabric arts groups are coming to Jefferson Parish libraries
n The Monday Knitters meet from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays at the Gretna Library 102 Willow Drive Bev Madere, Craft Yarn Council of America master knitter, facilitates this group of adult knitters. All skill levels welcome; basics will be taught to beginners.
n Create Space is a weekly crochet group that meets from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Terrytown Library, 7680 Heritage Ave. Each week, a new crochet project is presented for people of any
age. Also, beading, yarn and craft supplies will be provided, as well as a Cricut machine and sewing machine. Kids? No problem. LEGOs and coloring sheets will be provided to keep them entertained.
n Open Stitchery FabricArts Club meets at 4 p.m. Tuesdays at the Live Oak Library 125 Acadia Drive, Waggaman. The group’s focus involves instruction in crochet, sewing, knitting, quilting and cross stitch for all ages. Patrons are challenged to learn new tips and tricks from expert seamstresses.
ANALYZEAND UNDERSTAND: Christie Cognevich, a library staff member, will lead a session titled “Reading the Black Parade: PopPunk as Poetry,” at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 7 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.
She’ll discuss how to analyze and interpret lyrics of celebrated pop-punk bands such as Blink 182, Jimmy Eat World, Paramore, My Chemical Romance, Relient K and others.
Cognevich has an master’s in English literature from the University of New Orleans and a Ph.D. in English literature from LSU. Additionally, she has an MFA in creative writing from the Vermont College of Fine Arts and is the author of several YA nonfiction books.
WWIITALK: In remembrance of the 80th anniversary of the dropping of the atomic bomb on Nagasaki and Hiroshima, Brian Altobello will talk about Japan’s surrender and alternatives to the A-bomb at 7 p.m. Aug. 7 at the East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.
COOKINGWITH CHEF NINO: Neil “Nino” Thibodaux, of Houma, will teach patrons how to make a summertime salad with poppyseed dressing from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. July 31 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave. in Metairie.
GENEALOGY: Upcoming sessions will be held at 7 p.m. at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. n July 30: Researching female ancestors n Aug. 13: Researching criminal and court records n Aug. 20: Using genetic genealogy n Aug. 27: Using the genealogical proof standard COMPUTER CLASSES: Those interested in computer
classes should go to the JPL website, then to the classes to register These classes will be at the East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon, Metairie.
n Artificial Intelligence
101: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 2
n Microsoft Excel 1: 10 a.m. to noon Aug. 4
n Microsoft Excel 2: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 4
n Exploring JPL Digital Content: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 5
n One-on-One Slot in Basic Computers/Smart Phone Skills: 2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Aug. 7
n One-on-One Slot in Basic Computers/Smart Phone Skills: 2:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 7
n One-on-One Slot in Basic Computers/Smart Phone Skills: 3 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Aug. 7
n Internet Basics – 2 to 4 p.m. Aug. 8
n One-on-One Slot in Basic Computers/Smart Phone Skills: 2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Aug. 12
n One-on-One Slot in Basic Computers/Smart Phone Skills: 2:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 12
n One-on-One Slot in Basic Computers/Smart Phone Skills: 3 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Aug. 12
n Microsoft Word 1:
10 a.m. to noon Aug. 14
n Microsoft Word 2: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Aug. 14
n Google Apps for Beginners: 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 18
n Using Email: 2 p.m. to
4 p.m. Aug. 19
n Microsoft Excel 3:
10 a.m. to noon, Aug. 21
The following classes will be at the Jane O’Brien Chatelain West Bank Regional Library, 2751 Manhattan, Harvey
n Exploring JPL Digital Content: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 6
n Microsoft Excel 1:
10 a.m. to noon Aug. 15
n Microsoft Excel 2:
2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 15
n Internet Basics: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 20
n Microsoft Word 1:
10 a.m. to noon Aug. 22
n Microsoft Word 2: 2 p.m.
to 4 p.m. Aug. 22
n Using Email: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 27
n Microsoft PowerPoint 1:
10 a.m. to noon Aug. 29
n Microsoft PowerPoint 1:
2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 29
Chris Smith is manager of adult programming at the Jefferson Parish Public Library
prix-fixe meals at many of the city’s top restaurants. More than 85 restaurants all over the city will be participating. neworleans.com/ COOLinary NOLA PICKLE FEST: Registration is open for the tournament, benefiting the Brees Dream Foundation, to be held Aug. 6-10 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, 900 Convention Center Blvd. in New Orleans. The tournament and weekend festival blend fast-paced competition, live entertainment and vendors. Details at www.nolapicklefest.com.
U.S. GYMNASTIC CHAMPIONSHIPS: Tickets are on sale for the 2025 Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships Aug. 7-10 at the Smoothie King Center, 1501 Dave Dixon Drive in New Orleans. It will feature elite athletes including Brody Malone and Frederick Richard, returning Olympic medalists from the Paris 2024 men’s Olympic team, and women’s gold medalist Hezly Rivera. Tickets start at $30 via Ticketmaster. xfinitychampionships.com.
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,
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 through Aug. 31 on Fridays 2-7 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sundays
2-7 p.m. The improved splash park is available to residents and visitors of all ages. www. kenner.la.us/219/Parks-Recreation-Department.
PEPPA PIG & GEORGE: Tickets are on sale as the Audubon Aquarium, 6500 Magazine St. in New Orleans, hosts the stars of the British preschool animated TV series Aug. 1-3.
Meet-and-greet free with zoo admission; professional photos available for a fee Kids Tea Party, $7 kids, free for adults, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. audubonaquarium. com/peppa.
GEORGE RAINEY NATATORI-
UM: NORD will offer extended daily swim times at the natatorium, 2529 Gen. Meyer Ave. in New Orleans, through August. The pool will be open until 8 p.m. Weekend pool hours are Saturday, 9 a.m.5 p.m., and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. NORDC.org.
DOLLY DAYS: The Krewe of Dolly will hold free children’s book readings in the Jazz National Historical Park, 419 Decatur St. in New Orleans. Williams-Plum Street SnoBalls will provide treats 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., with the readings 11 a.m.-noon. Dolly Days will be held July 28-Aug 3. www.frenchmarket.org/. KNIGHTS OF NEMESIS LUAU
DANCE: The Knights of Nemesis will celebrate their 20th anniversary with a dance and introduction of the club’s Royal Knight XX Kevin Hoffman and Goddess Nemesis XX Meghan Taffaro McMullin, who will lead the 2026 parade, scheduled for Feb. 7, 2026. The dance, open to the public, will be held in the Sigur Center Grand Ballroom, 8245 W. Judge Perez Drive, in Chalmette, Aug. 16, 8 p.m.- midnight. Luau attire is encouraged. Tickets are $30. (504) 583-3998 billyshowalter@aol.com.
HURRICANE KATRINA REMEMBRANCES
KATRINA MEMORIAL: St. Bernard Parish will host a remembrance on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina on Aug. 29, starting at 11 a.m. with a Mass at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, 2320 Paris Road in Chalmette. The wreath-laying ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. at Shell Beach Katrina Memorial, 1320 Yscloskey Highway in St. Bernard. Limited bus service will be available from the church to Shell Beach by reservation. kthiel@ sbpg.net (504) 278-4303.
COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR
AND BLOCK PARTY: St. James
CARES will host a community event on Aug. 2, 10 a.m.-
2 p.m., at Historic St. James AME Church, 222 N. Roman St. in New Orleans. It will include free health screenings, wellness education and familyfriendly activities, as well as school supply giveaways food distribution and community resource connections for individuals and families. (504) 586-8381.
CULTURE & CONCERTS
TIPITINA’S FREE FRIDAY: The free Friday concerts for ages 21+ run through Aug. 29, with shows starting at 8 p.m. Performers for Aug. 1 are
Stanton Moore, Joe Ashlar, Danny Abel and Brad Walker, plus Jank Setup. On Aug. 8, Raw Deal Presents: A Tribute to Rick James, plus The Next Level band. tipitinas.com/ freefridays
FRIENDS OF THE CABILDO LECTURES: Tickets are on sale for the series, which begins Aug. 5 and continues through Nov. 11, with seven presentations on Louisiana and New Orleans history. Tickets start at $10. friendsofthecabildo.org.
NOMA AT NIGHT: The New Orleans Museum of Art marks closing of the exhibition “New African Masquerades: Artistic Innovations and Collaborations” on Aug. 8, 6-9 p.m. Tours of the exhibit, music, art-making activities, small bites and drinks, and after-hours access
to the museum are included in the ticket. Prices start at $15. noma.org.
BOOKS
“THE LITTLE LOST ALLIGATOR”: Local artist and author Madi Hannan celebrates release of her latest book on Aug. 3, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., at Create & Play Club, 2565 Metairie Road, Suite 103, in Metairie. Snacks, craft activities and live baby alligators included. artbymadicat.com.
AN EVENING WITH DANIEL KRAUS: The author of “Angel Down” will be in conversation with Jami Attenberg on Aug. 3, 5:30 p.m., at Blue Cypress Books, 8123 Oak St in New Orleans. Audience Q&A and book signing follow. www bluecypressbooks.com.
511™ SLIM, $49.99
Sits belowwaist,slimfrom hiptoankle,slimleg
541™ ATHLETIC TAPER, $49.99 Sits at waist, extraroominseatand thigh.
JUNIORS’
94 MID RISE BAGGY, $59.99 Mid-rise,loose fit throughhip andthigh straight leg
501® ORIGINAL STRAIGHT LEG, $59.99 High-rise, slim throughhip andthigh
WEDGIE HIGH RISE STRAIGHT, $59.99 High-rise, snug throughhip and thigh, straight leg
GIRLS’ SIZE 7-16 BAGGY FLARE,$26.99
Sits at waist, flare leg
BOYS’ SIZE 2T-7X 502™ REGULAR TAPER FIT, $24.99
Mid-rise,tapered fit SIZE 8-20 502™ REGULAR TAPER FIT,$29.99 Mid-rise,tapered fit
of 1992, on Sept. 6, noon-6 p.m., in Audubon Park. The family-friendly event will include live entertainment, with each class having its own tent. Details online. https://form.jotform com/251597561173160.
JOHN F. KENNEDY HIGH REUNION: The 50th reunion of the graduating class of 1976 will be held April 10, 2026. The reunion committee is seeking contact information from class members. Details are available on the JFK Class of ’76 Facebook page cbrylski@aol.com.
GOAT IN THE SCHOOLS: A touring show of four plays presented by Goat in the Road Productions written by fifth- and sixth-grade students from its Play/Write program, will be presented Aug. 15, 10:30 a.m., at the Blackbox Theater at the Lafon Performing Arts Center, 275 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway in Luling. Following the show, there will be a free 30-minute playwriting workshop. www.ticketleap.events/tickets/goatintheroadproductions/goatin-the-road-s-youth-theatre-show NEW ORLEANS PUBLIC SCHOOLS: In-person open enrollment events for Early Learning & Child Care programs will include help for starting or completing a 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.
JULY 30: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Renew Moton Lakefront, 8550 Curran Blvd. EnrollNOLAPS.com
Jacqueline Richard, right, Nunez Coastal Studies and GIS Technology program chair, has been chosen to receive the 2025 Niering Award for Outstanding Educator from the Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation. The award will be presented in November in Richmond, Virginia. Richard has led the Coastal program at Nunez Community College in Chalmette since 2022. Pictured with Richard is Nunez Coastal student Kylie Miller at the 2025 Cook-Off for the Coast.
Students from three St Bernard Parish schools earned national recognition for their academic achievement leadership and creative excellence at the 2025 National Beta Convention, held in June in Orlando, Florida
Chalmette High School, Lacoste Elementary and N. P. Trist Middle School Beta Club members represented the St. Bernard Parish Public School System as they competed against thousands of students from across the nation.
Chalmette High School senior Jenna Jamhour placed eighth in Digital Art.
Eleven students from the Junior Beta Club at N.P Trist Middle School competed in multiple events and received national placements in five competitive categories. Autumn Higginbotham, Kenneth Higginbotham and Jade Jamhour earned second place in “Reimagine, Recreate, Recycle.” Caden Bryan, Colton Bourgeois, Ramy Dali, Jack McMullin, Wyatt Scully, Preston Senez and Bryce Watson placed third in Robotics. Jack McMullin placed eighth in Seventh Grade Math. Caden Bryan, Colton Bourgeois, Ramy Dali, and Jack McMullin earned ninth place in Convention Invention. Autumn Higginbotham was selected for Premiere Performer Trist students also competed in Eighth Grade English Language Arts, Jade Jamhour; Digital Portfolio, Laylah Brown, Isla Caruso, Ava Heffker and Isabella Lemoine; Trading Pin, Jade Jamhour; and the Meeting of the Minds exhibition, Briley Blackwell, Jade Jamhour, Preston Senez and Bryce Watson. Trist’s Beta Club sponsors are Meghan McMullin Sharene Dali, Felix Caserta and Lauren Blackwell.
Six students from Lacoste Elementary School competed in nine events and earned awards in seven Grayson Caballero (captain), Abigail Esler, Dominick Shreve and Luke Gagnard earned second place in Quiz Bowl. Abigail Esler, Dominick Shreve, Grayson Caballero and Miriam Dali placed third in Meeting of the Minds. Miriam Dali and Charlotte Wilemon were fourth in Convention Invention. Miriam Dali earned sixth place in Onsite Cake Decorating. Abigail
Dominick Shreve, Grayson Caballero, Luke Gagnard and Miriam Dali placed eighth in Reimagine, Recreate, Recycle. Dominick Shreve (captain), Abigail Esler Grayson Caballero and Luke Gagnard ranked 10th in Musicology Grayson Caballero placed 10th in Health and Physical Education. Lacoste’s Beta Club is led by sponsors Mandy Nguyen, Jodi Hebert, Timothy Grisaffi, Dina Martinez, and Sheryll McInelly