Crescent City Picayune 11-19-2025 by The Advocate

A HAppier BirtHdAy

Metairie woman bakes cakes for children of families hit by government shutdown

BY EVA JACOB BARKOFF

Contributing writer

During the government shutdown, Elise Elraies wanted to ﬁnd a way to help people who were having a difﬁcult time paying bills and mortgages and getting enough food — especially those with children. She came up with a sweet idea.

“I never imagined a child going without a cake to celebrate a birthday because a family depended on SNAP, or a parent, as a government employee, didn’t receive a salary,” said Elraies, who lives in Metairie. “I knew I had to do something because a birthday is a special occasion.”

Just don’t share

Rich foods from holiday table can cause problems for pets

The holidays are all about food, family, and fun — and for many of us, that includes our pets, who tend to hover nearby hoping for a bite While it may be hard to resist those pleading eyes, a few “harmless” leftovers can cause more than just an upset stomach. Veterinarians say one of the most common holiday emergencies they see is pancreatitis, a painful and sometimes serious inﬂammation of the pancreas. (Although it can happen any time, the holidays are a prime season.)

The pancreas is a small organ tucked near the stomach that plays a big role in digestion and blood sugar control. When it’s working normally, it releases enzymes that help break down food. But sometimes those enzymes get activated too early, inside the pancreas itself, and begin digesting the organ from the inside out. That’s pancreatitis, and it is painful for pets. The condition can come on suddenly after a pet eats something rich or fatty, or it can develop slowly over time. Dogs that raid the garbage can or are treated to fatty foods like turkey skin, gravy or bacon are especially at risk. Certain breeds, such as miniature Schnauzers, and pets that are overweight or diabetic are more likely to develop it. Cats can also suffer from pancreatitis, though their symptoms tend to be quieter and

Elraies, a baker and cake decorator, took matters into her own hands and decided to bake cakes free of charge for anyone af-

fected by the government closure.

In October, she created a Facebook group called Cakes for Kindness, and the idea took off.

“People immediately responded on the Facebook page and the demand for cakes is growing,” Elraies said.

When Terri Ridgley saw Elraies’ post, she knew right away that she wanted to help.

“Besides donating to the food bank at St. Angela Merici Church, I wondered how else I could help families in need,” Ridgley said. “Children are certainly feeling the stress of this crazy economic situation, and this is my small way of making a child’s life a bit happier.”

Elraies, 28, said she doesn’t plan to ask those requesting a cake to show proof they are a SNAP recipient or government employee.

“I am not worried about that at all,” she said. “I would like to think people are honest and sincere. I know how families feel. I was 8 years old when Katrina hit, and my family

brieﬂy relied on SNAP beneﬁts.

“Several of my friends, at a formative age, were encouraged to look for steady jobs, and many of those jobs are in government. Now they can’t believe what is happening and are ﬁnding themselves without any income. It’s a very heavy burden.”

There is a request form on the Cakes of Kindness Facebook page which outlines the ordering process, including that cake orders should be submitted five days in advance. Also, the cakes are two layers and measure 81/2 inches with a choice of chocolate, yellow butter or funfetti cake flavors. Each with a butter cream filling and icing.

Decorative items include unicorns, butterﬂies, dinosaurs, Hello Kitty, princesses or superheroes. Elraies said many people have offered to volunteer and contribute money to help defray costs.

“I don’t plan to accept any monetary dona-

The

Gumbo Festival returned to Armstrong Park in New Orleans recently with live music to move the feet from the Rebirth Brass Band, Hot 8 Brass Band, James Andrews and others, along with

PROVIDED PHOTO BY SABRINA TAQUINO

a steady hand, Elise Elraies

Tremé Creole

The Treme Brass Band performs during the festival. ä More photos. PAGE 2G

PHOTOS BY CHRIS GRANGER Shadon Green serves a bowl of gumbo

CAKES

Continued from page 1G

tions,” Elraies said. “Donations of cake mixes, decoration kits, cake boxes and candles will be accepted at any time, and I will update the need (on the Facebook page) for perishables such as eggs and butter as it arises.

“I am still able to meet the demand for cake production, but the more pressing need is for volunteers to transport the cakes to the recipients in the event they are unable to make it to the pickup location.”

Mona Herbert, a teacher for more than 40 years, said she has seen for herself many times over the years the economic effects parents face to provide for their children.

“Parents often have a lot of things going on that have an impact not only on them but on their children,” said Herbert, who said she will help Elraies with donations and supplies. “Celebrating a special occasion like a birthday, making someone feel special, loved and cherished, is all a parent wants to do for their child.

“I am calling Elise an ‘angel baker’ because I am so impressed with

what Elise is doing to help others.”

Elraies is excited about the growing number of orders coming in.

“It’s heartwarming to see the responses and to be able to put all that goodwill into action,” she said.

“Together, we are helping the community experience some kindness during troubling times, and that is a beautiful thing.”

If you would like to help, send an email to elise_elraies@yahoo.com.

Cakes are not guaranteed to be allergen-free. The baking is done from her home, but orders will be picked up at a designated location.

Even after numerous flight delays due to the government shutdown, Tanya Birl-Torres, left, and her husband, Wilson Torres, both of New York, managed to get to New Orleans in time for the fest. The two share bowls of gumbo as they sit in front of a statue of Allison ‘Big Chief Tootie’ Montana by artist Sheleen JonesAdenle.

Continued from page 1G

easier to miss.

The tricky thing about pancreatitis is that it can look like a lot of other illnesses. Common signs include vomiting or diarrhea, refusing food, lethargy, weakness, belly pain, excessive thirst and fever Pets may seem hunched or resist being touched around the stomach area. If your pet seems off — especially after eating something they shouldn’t have — call your vet right away Early treatment can make all the difference.

There isn’t a magic cure for pancreatitis. Treatment mostly involves managing symptoms until the inﬂammation settles down. That often includes IV ﬂuids, pain relief and anti-nausea medication. In serious cases, pets may need to be hospitalized for a few days. Most pets recover fully, but pancreatitis can come back, especially if the pet continues to eat high-fat foods or gets into the trash. A low-fat diet and main-

taining a healthy weight can go a long way toward prevention. Every year, emergency clinics see a spike in pancreatitis cases right around the holidays. A single high-fat meal can trigger an attack. So, this holiday season, keep the trash secured, especially if it contains bones or greasy leftovers. Remind guests not to slip your dog “just one piece” under the table. Skip the bacon, gravy and turkey skin, and instead, share a safe pet treat. Here are some foods that can trigger pancreatitis:

n Turkey skin

n Gravy

n Bacon

n Pork roast or ham

n Fried or greasy foods

n Creamy casseroles

n Buttered rolls n Mashed potatoes

n Desserts with chocolate or artiﬁcial sweeteners (especially xylitol) When to call the vet:

n Repeated vomiting or diarrhea

n Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours

n Hunching or obvious belly pain

n Weakness n Dehydration Pancreatitis is painful, scary and sometimes life-threatening, but it’s also largely preventable. As tempting as it is to let pets join in the holiday feast, they’ll be much happier, and healthier, with their own pet-approved food.

Events

NOV. 22: Animal Rescue New Orleans will be at the PetSmart adoption event, 6851 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie, from noon to 4 p.m. Meet dogs available for foster or adoption and get information on fostering, adopting, and volunteering. All approved adopters will receive a coupon book from PetSmart and a new dog bed from ARNO For more info, contact adopt@animalrescueneworleans.org.

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.

Girl is 4 years old and 21 pounds. We wish she could tell you where she’s been and what she’s been doing in her short life, but she’s very shy. She would love to be in a home of her own, and she loves other dogs. To learn more, email adopt@animalrescueneworleans.org

shows

PROVIDED PHOTO BY SABRINA TAQUINO TREME CREOLE GUMBO FESTIVAL

It was definitely gumbo weather as Herman Wright, left, who was taking a short break from picking up trash at the Treme Creole Gumbo Festival, listens to the Saints’ game on his phone while seated behind a stage at Armstrong Park.

A bowl of chicken and homemade sausage gumbo topped with potato salad, all by chef Chris Shaggy’ Davis, of Cochon King BBQ

PHOTOS BY CHRIS GRANGER

The Treme Brass Band performs at the Treme Creole Gumbo Festival.

PET OF THE WEEK

EVENTS

QUARTER KALEIDOSCOPE: Celebrate the French Quarter with a community history storytelling on Nov. 19, 6 p.m., sponsored by the Historic BK House & Gardens and The Vieux Carre Property Owners Residents, and Associates, at 1113 Chartres St. in New Orleans. Special guests will tell their personal stories of living, working and celebrating what makes New Orleans unique. Limited seating is available. Tickets are $10 for members; $15 nonmembers. www.bkhouse.org. WORLD WAR II CONFERENCE: The National WWII Museum’s adult educational event brings together scholars, authors, historians and witnesses to history from around the globe to discuss the war that changed the world. It will be held Nov. 20-22 at the museum, 945 Magazine St. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $1,499. www.nationalww2museum.org/events-programs/ events/136476-18th-international-conference-worldwar-ii.

FOOD AND BLOOD DRIVE: The Dames de Perlage event will be held Nov. 22, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., at Port Orleans Brewing, 4124 Tchoupitoulas St. in New Orleans. The event with fight food insecurity, help raise mental health awareness and to ensure local blood banks stay strong. Also included will be live music, a 50/50 raffle to benefit the Brett Thomas Doussan Foundation’s work raising mental health aware-

ness and a nonperishable food drive to stock 16 community fridges around New Orleans twice a month. Information is available on the Dames de Perlage Facebook page. Register to give blood online through The Blood Center. www.tbcdonors.org. ALICE BROWN THANKSGIVING DINNER: Orders are being taken for the dinner, which will be held Nov. 27, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., at OJ Dunn, 1100 Cook St. in Gretna. Delivery is available to a limited area. Contacts for orders are Mrs. Davillier (504) 210-7014 or (504) 367-6146 and Mrs. Hall (504) 367-8464.

THANKSGIVING LUNCHEON: A holiday luncheon will be held Nov. 22, noon-3 p.m., at the Four Columns, 3711 Westbank Expressway in Harvey, with a full-course Thanksgiving meal, live music and special recognition of community leaders. State Rep. Rodney Lyons hosts. RSVP via Eventbrite.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

SURVIVING THE HOLIDAYS SEMINAR: Cornerstone Christian Center, 6550 Lapalco Blvd. in Marrero, will host a GriefShare seminar on Nov. 22, 1-3 p.m. All those who have lost a loved one through death are invited to attend The seminar consists of a video presentation and group discussion. Cost is $7 for the accompanying participation guide. cccnola.net

CULTURE & CONCERTS

HARPSICORD CONCERT: The New Marigny Theatre Church of Arts & Sciences presents

a concert of Baroque and Beethoven with harpsichordist Paul Mauffray on Nov. 23, 7:30 p.m., at 2301 Marais St. in New Orleans. The program will include pieces by Scarlatti, Purcell, Bach and Beethoven, among others. In addition, the life mask of Beethoven, made in 1812 by Franz Klein, will be on display. Suggested donations of $20 for adults, $10 for students. newmarignytheatre.com.

MUSIC IN THE GARDEN: The New Orleans Museum of Art hosts its next concert in the Besthoff Sculpture Garden on Nov. 26, 2-4 p.m., in City Park at 1 Collins Diboll Circle in New Orleans. The concert will feature live acoustic sets from artists Kr3wcial and Khiry Bey. Free. noma.org. FRIENDS OF THE CABILDO CONCERT SERIES: Tickets are on sale for the 2025-2026 season of concerts, held at 7 p.m. on the third-ﬂoor performance space venue at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, 400 Esplanade Ave. in New Orleans. Performances begin Nov. 21 with Paul Sanchez. Professor Longhair’s 107th birthday show with C.R. Gruver of the New Orleans Suspects will be held Dec. 19. Concert dates continue into 2026. Tickets start at $30. friendsofthecabildo.org..

MANNIE FRESH & THE LPO: A RETROSPECTIVE: Rapper, record producer and DJ Mannie Fresh will join the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Evan Roider, for a concert on Nov. 21, 8 p.m., at the Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way in New

Orleans. Tickets start at $50. lpomusic.com.

JAZZ & HERITAGE AND THE PRESS: Ann D. SummerallJabro will talk about the ﬁrst decade of Jazz Fest’s press coverage and how PR and marketing shaped its early identity and legacy. The lecture will take place Nov. 19, 6:30 p.m., at the George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center, 1225 N. Rampart St. in New Orleans. Registration is free via Eventbrite. www jazzandheritage.org.

BOOKS

“THE GOLDEN HOOPS”: Author Jen Hayes Lee will celebrate the publication of her children’s book at the Make It Golden event Nov. 20, 6-8 p.m., at The Ochsner Health Son of a Saint Bivian Lee Jr. Center, 2803 St. Philip St. in New Orleans. Free.

STORYTIME & POETRY

RHYMES: In a tribute to libraries and librarians sponsored by One Book One New Orleans, artists reﬂect on the role the library has played in their lives and in our communities. The event will be held Nov. 21, 8-9:30 p.m., at the André Cailloux Center for Performing Arts and Cultural Justice, 541 Bayou Road in New Orleans. onebookonenola.org.

USED BOOK SALE: Friends of the UNO Library will host a sale on Nov. 20-22 in the UNO Library room 407, 2000 Lakeshore Drive in New Orleans. Hours on Thursday are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The

sale will include books of all kinds, puzzles, CDs, DVDs and vinyl albums. libguides.uno. edu/friends SATURDAY SCRABBLE: The event will be held at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave. in Metairie, on Nov. 22, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. It is a fully rated seven-game North American Scrabble Players Association tournament. Players must bring boards, tiles, clocks and score sheets and be a member of NASPA in order to play. There will also be a School Scrabble tournament for children 8-13 competing in pairs and a three-game newcomer event for library patrons from 9 a.m. to noon. Check-in begins at 9 a.m. Clocks in all events start at 9:30 a.m. calendar. jplibrary.net/event/scrabbletournament-14895.

FUNDRAISERS/GALAS

CORNHOLE BENEFIT: Harvey/ Marrero Squad 222 of the Sons of the American Legion will host a fundraiser Nov. 23 at 4101 Patriot St. in Marrero. Registration ends at 12:30 p.m., with the tournament starting at 1 p.m. Entry fees are $20 for individuals or $40 for two-person teams and include food and beverages. (504) 347-0845.

TENNESSEE WILLIAMS GALA: The Tennessee Williams and New Orleans Literary Festival will host a gala on Nov. 20, 7 p.m., at the Hotel Peter and Paul, 2317 Burgundy St. in New Orleans. A VIP experience begins at 6:30 p.m. The evening includes a bar, hors d’oeuvres and music, tarot

upturnarts.org.

WINTER HOLIDAY CAMP: Registration is open for the Ogden Museum of Southern Arts’s winter break camp for grades 2-5, to be held Dec. 22, 23 and 26, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at the museum, 925 Camp St. in New Orleans. Bring snacks, water and lunch. $50 per day members; $55 nonmembers. ogdenmuseum.org.

had named its Artists of the Month for November. Pictured from left are Ann Clement, watercolor, ‘Fall Still Life,’ ﬁrst place; Alice Gore, photo, ‘Wounded Beauty,’ second place; Deb Carrao, mixed media, ‘Shadow,’ second place; Carolyn Clausing, pencil colors, ‘No You May Not Have a Feather,’ second place; and Gerry Gieseler, watercolor, ‘Oroses,’ third place. All artwork can be viewed at the St. Charles Parish East Regional Library, 160 W Campus Drive in Destrehan, through November.

Check out the adults-only Jingle Bells and Beer

Remembering through art

During a workshop led by artist Derrick Monk at the St. Charles Parish School Board Ofﬁce in Luling, students designed and carved sculptural elements that will later be cast in aluminum and installed as a large basrelief mural honoring the ﬁrst 43 students who voluntarily integrated parish schools in 1965. Elementary, middle and high school students all took part in the workshop.

STEM NOLA founder

Calvin Mackie wins top engineering award

Staff report

Calvin Mackie, founder and CEO of STEM NOLA | STEM Global Action, has received the 2025 American Society of Mechanical Engineers’ Ralph Coats Roe Medal, one of the most distinguished honors in the ﬁeld of engineering. The award recognizes those who have made “an outstanding contribution toward a better public understanding and appreciation of the engineer’s worth to contemporary society.” Mackie received the medal and delivered a keynote address recently at the ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress & Exposition in Memphis, Tennessee.

“THE DROWSY CHAPERONE”: New Orleans Center for Creative Arts Theatre Arts students will present the Tony Award-winning musical on Nov. 19-20, 6:30 p.m., at Lupin Theatre, 2800 Chartres St. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $25.31. nocca.com.

BROTHER MARTIN HIGH: Registration is open for the 2025 Holiday Baseball Camp at Brother Martin, to be held Nov. 24-26, 9 a.m.-noon, on E.A. Farley Field at the school, 4401 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans. The three-day camp is for boys 5-12, and will be conducted by Coach Jeff Lupo and the varsity coaching staff and players. The cost is $135 per camper. Registration and payments are due by Nov. 20. www.brothermartin.com.

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN HIGH: Cedric Richmond, class of 1991, has been named Franklin’s 2025 Alumnus of the Year. A lifelong New Orleanian, Richmond graduated from Morehouse College and earned a law degree from Tulane. He represented Louisiana’s 2nd Congressional District in the U.S House of Representatives for more than a decade and served as a senior adviser to President Joe Biden and as director of the White House

SCHOOL NOTES

Ofﬁce of Public Engagement. He currently works for the Democratic National Committee.

MOUNT CARMEL ACADEMY: MCA organizations ﬁlled more than 139 Boxes of Joy with toys and gifts as part of a nationwide Christmas gift program sponsored by Cross Catholic Outreach. The boxes will be sent to children in developing countries. MCA students who helped with the collection include Addison Ferreras, AnnaBeth Cuicchi, Maya Mayﬁeld, Isabella Adams, Claire Gonzalez, Charlene Nguyen, Baylee Smith, Keely Menard, Marian Murray, Kailyn Madden, Elianna Tay, Lauren Loris, Alexis Desroche, Charli Slaughter, Claire Bunol, Lauren Fish, Aislin McKenna, Avery Dugas and Sadie Stritzinger. YOUNG AUDIENCES CHAR-

TER SCHOOLS: YACS at the Westbank Campus, in partnership with HOPE (Help Other People Endure) and community partners, will host a Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway on Nov. 22, noon2:30 p.m., at 1000 Burmaster St. in Gretna. The drive-thru event will provide free turkeys and holiday trimmings to local families on a ﬁrst-come, ﬁrst-served basis, while supplies last. Registration is requested via Eventbrite. www

yacs.org.

HYNES CHARTER SCHOOLS: Hynes will hold open house tours on Nov. 20 at 8 a.m. The tours will take place at each of its three campuses: Hynes-Lakeview, 990 Harrison Ave.; Hynes-UNO, 1901 Leon C. Simon Drive; and Hynes-Parkview 4617 Mirabeau Ave. Registration and ID are required. www.hynesschool.com/admissions.

HYNES CHARTER SCHOOLS: Hynes Charter Schools will hold open house tours on Nov. 20 and Dec. 4 at 8 a.m. The tours will take place at the three Hynes New Orleans campuses: Hynes-Lakeview, PK3-8, 990 Harrison Ave.; Hynes-UNO K-7, 1901 Leon C. Simon Drive; and Hynes-Parkview, K-8, 4617 Mirabeau Ave. Registration required. www hynesschool.com/admissions.

THE WILLOW SCHOOL: The Willow School will hold an open house to explain more about its artsintegrated, inquiry-based approach to education in K-12. High School open house for grades 8-12 is Dec. 4, 5-7 p.m., at the Elijah Brimmer Campus, 5624 Freret St. Tours run every 15 minutes at 5 p.m. willowschoolnola.org.

YOUNG AUDIENCES CHARTER SCHOOLS: Registration is open for YACS December open houses for prospective students from Orleans

and Jefferson parishes. YACS at Lawrence D. Crocker, PK 4-8, will hold an open house for Orleans residents on Dec. 9, 5 p.m., at its campus, 2301 Marengo St. For Jefferson residents, an open house for all campuses of YACS at Burmaster and Little YACS, PK 4-12, will be held Dec, 10, 5 p.m., at the Burmaster campus, 1000 Burmaster St. in Gretna. YACS Burmaster will open a newly renovated, expanded middle school campus for sixth graders for the 2026-27 school year. www yacs.org.

NEW ORLEANS MILITARY AND MARITIME ACADEMY: Registration is open for open houses for grades 8-12 in the cafeteria, 425 O’Bannon St. in New Orleans. Dates are Jan. 8 and 22, 2026. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with presentations at 6 p.m. Attendance is required to apply for the 2026-27 school year. Parent(s) or legal guardian(s) must attend. ID is required at check-in. nomma.net/admissions.

SCHOEFFNER SCHOLARSHIP: Applications are open through Dec. 1 for full-time college students who meet the criteria and are graduates of Destrehan High School or Hahnville High School. For details, go to www.wearescpps.org/resources/ ethel-schoeffner-scholarship.

Crescent City Sound Chorus scores at Sweet Adelines competition

Student Jordan Clay participates in a workshop.

St. Charles Parish public school talented art student Olivia Danford works on her design.

STAFF PHOTOS BY BRETT DUKE

Artist Derrick Monk works with St. Charles Parish public school students on designs for a public art memorial.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Shown

Metairie; Lynda Grass, Metairie; Kitty Warner, Covington; Judy Theriot, Slidell; and Karla Crenshaw, Marrero.

Calvin Mackie

Richmond

Metairie Woman’s Club raises funds at holiday luncheon

The Metairie Woman’s Club kicked off the holiday season with its annual Christmas in October Luncheon fundraiser Event proceeds will beneﬁt Jefferson

Performing Arts Leading Ladies Guild, Raphael Village, unCommon Construction and Metairie Woman’s Club’s annual scholarship to a young woman graduating from a Metairie high school. At the event are, from left, Jan Allen, 2025 event committee co-chair; Rubye Noble Evans, MWC president; and Pattie Stanley, 2025 event committee co-chair.

Fun activities focus on bilingual and Spanish-speaking families

BY JANE LEGROS Contributing writer

Bilingual and Spanish-speaking families are invited to a free evening of activities Nov 19, and every month, at the Central City Library, 2020 Jackson Ave.

Ixnal Cuma Chavez will lead a weaving workshop from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. This program is aimed at families with children ages 6-12. Register to help plan for supplies at events.nolalibrary.org.

Each month will feature a unique activity or game, snacks, and book giveaways featuring Americas Award-winning books. The Americas Award celebrates YA and children’s literature that portrays Latin America, Caribbean and Latinx culture in the United States.

The events are sponsored by the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library and the Stone Center for Latin American Studies at Tulane University

CAKE DECORATING: Creole Goodies will lead a hands-on cake-decorating workshop at the East New Orleans Regional Library 5641 Read Blvd., at 5 p.m Nov 20, in partnership with the Reengagement Center

The workshop will double as a mini masterclass in young adult entrepreneurship.

Attendees will decorate their own cakes and record short showcase videos. This event is open to those ages 16-24 who are ready to turn a sweet hobby into a marketable skill.

WRITERS PERFORMING: Live readings are an essential part of a writer’s career, but reading in front of an audience can be daunting. Daphne Armbruster, theater actress and director of community outreach for the Third Lantern Lit writers’ collective, will lead a workshop to help writers perform their works at 11 a.m. on Nov 22 at the Latter Library, 5120 St. Charles Ave.

The ﬁrst hour of this workshop will cover:

n Basic mechanics of what you can expect from a reading

n Grounding techniques to

lessen the physical symptoms of nervest.

n Techniques to project confidence.

n Practical acting techniques to bring your writing to life.

n How to pick the best cut of your piece to read live.

In the second hour, attendees have the option to workshop their pieces with Armbruster Those who want to practice reading should bring an excerpt of 500 words. This workshop is presented in partnership with Third Lantern Lit and is sponsored by the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library

MENTAL HEALTH: Abbigale Nguyen, LMSW, will lead a mental health workshop for teens from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov 22 at the East New Orleans Regional Library 5641 Read Blvd. Participants will enjoy food, activities, and resources focused on

helping teens level up their mental health. Teens needing community service hours can apply this workshop to their hours. The workshop, in partnership with Resilient Youth Rising, NAMI, and Song CDC, is open to teens ages 12 to 17. Registration is required. Visit events.nolalibrary org.

VIETNAMESE CULTURE: Song CDC will be at Mid-City Library, 4140 Canal St., to lead a traditional Vietnamese decorating workshop for kids ages 6-12. It will take place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov 22. Attendees will design their own hats inspired by the traditional Vietnamese nón lá while learning about gardening and plants. Space is limited. Visit events. nolalibrary.org to sign up.

Jane LeGros is the director of marketing and communications for the New Orleans Public Library

Celebrating

ThePower of Partnership

Southern U transforma expand in the Co in

Universityand A&MCollegehas receiveda ative$5million investment from Shellto itiativesin theCollegeofBusiness and ollegeofSciences and Engineering. This nvestment directlysupports theSouthern UniversitySystem’sStrategic Pillars, includingStudent Success and Academic Excellence

“Withthis investmentinengineering education and studentsuccess,weare further strengthening Shell’spartnership with SouthernUniversityand empowering thenextgeneration of innovators and leaders. We can’t wait to see howtheywill shape thefutureofenergy and technologyfor our industryand theworld.”

EMMALEWIS

Executive Vice President,Shell Chemicals

PROVIDED PHOTO

PHOTO BY DONALD STOUT

Bilingual and Spanish-speaking families are invited to a free evening of activities Nov. 19 at the Central City Library, 2020 Jackson Ave.

• 6cupsofcrumbledcornbread (I bake then letstale for 3or4daysbeforeuse)

• 3cupsofwhite bread stale

• 3/4of1cup vegetableorchicken stock 3eggsbeaten

• 11/2 cupsofchopped onion

• 11/2 cupschopped celery

• 1bellpepperchopped

• 1bunch of greenonion chopped

• 1bunch of parsley chopped

• 1lb. pork sausage 1lb. of bacon (I use JimmyDeanmaple or sage)

• Salt,black,and white pepper to taste

1. Frythe baconuntil crispy,removefrompan andcrumble.Fry thesausage,removefrom pan andcrumble

2. Fryall theseasonings in thebacon/sausage grease untilwiltedand caramelized. Addback in thecookedsausage andbacon

3. Mixall stalecrumbledcornbread andwhite breadinalarge bowl.Add in thebacon, sausage,and wilted ingredientswiththe crumbled breads

4. Gently mixinthe stockand eggsintothe bowl with therestofthe ingredients.

5 Put mixtureintoa large, greasedbakingdishand bake at 325degrees foranhour. Youcan add extrabreadcrumbsand afew pats of butter on topfor acrisp look

• 1large head of freshcauliﬂower

• 2/3cup of Monterey Jack cheese shredded 2/3cup of sharp cheddar cheese shredded 1/2cup of imported Parmesan-Reggiano cheese shredded

• 1/2cup heavycream

• 2tbsp oliveoil or butter

• 2or3clovesofgarlic

• Salt,black pepper andalittlewhite pepper to taste

1. Cutcauliﬂowerintoﬂoretsand arrangeitina greasedbakingdish. In adoubleboilerheat thecream,add sauteed garlic andlet simmer on lowfor no more than 10 minutes.

2. Next add half of theMontereyJackand Cheddarcheeseand stir abit,thenadd half of the Parmesan-Reggiano cheese

3. Simmer,constantlystirring with awhisk,until it meltsand is asmoothsauce (mediumto thickconsistency,not runny).Pourthe cheese sauceoverthe Cauliﬂower.

4. Then topwiththe remainingshreddedcheese mixtures andthentop with the ParmesanReggiano before puttingitinthe oven.Cover with foil,bakeat325 degreesfor 35-45minutes(untilcauliﬂoweristender).Thenremovefoiland bake at 350degrees for10 minutesorunitl cheese is melted andatasty brownontop

5. Foranaddedtwist youcan add an ounceoftriplesec in thecheese sauce, or even some

RED-LETTER DAY:

Scrabble tournament welcomes players at all levels, but sign up quickly

Astronomy Society meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Dec. 3, outside in the employee parking area at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. Patrons can watch the moon slowly glide across the face of the Pleiades star cluster One by one, the bright stars of the Pleiades will be hidden by the moon. In case of inclement weather, there will be an indoor presentation: Barry Simon, president of the society will discuss “Deep Sky Wonders of Our Fall Skies.” He says “the crisp, clear evenings of fall give amateur astronomers a chance to see some of the most beautiful objects in our universe.” These include the Great Orion Nebula, the Andromeda Galaxy, the Pleiades, and many others. He will explain where to ﬁnd them and how best to see them.

of games will be determined by the number of teams. Children aged 8-13 compete in pairs. NSWL2023 dictionary will be used.

n A three-game newcomer event is offered to interested library patrons from 9 a.m. to noon. After the tourney, players may participant in open play

Check-in begins at 9 a.m. Clocks in all events start at 9:30 a.m.

KIDS’ BOOK NIGHT: Eight local authors of children’s books will discuss their works at 7 p.m. Dec. 2 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.

“Craziest Cajun Football Tale,” by Gary Alipio

Twelve-year-old Hatcher has big football dreams. He wants to be a play-calling star, so he joins a city youth team with the hopes of designing plays to win a championship. But when his inability to read plays correctly gets him cut to the B-team, his dream of winning turns to surviving a season of Cajun craziness.

“Fais Do Do,” by Shannon Kelley Atwater Atwater’s ﬁrst picture book is “Alligators Don’t Like Flowers.” She is also the author-illustrator of “Goodnight Pothole” and illustrator of “Rainbow Rodney.” She has been a featured author at the Louisiana Book Festival and New Orleans Book Festival.

“Gary and the Tooth Fairy” and “The Boy from the Swamp,” by Adam Dennis Dennis earned his bachelor’s degree from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, and his Juris Doctorate

from Capital University Law School in Columbus, Ohio. He has written for multiple online publications, satirizing the confusing world of parenting or overanalyzing the ﬁctional goings-on of superheroes

“Phoebe Cakes and Friends: An Alphabet Tail,” by Michaell Dumont

This board book is especially designed to stimulate and entertain little learners. As they learn the alphabet, they will be greeted by bright colors, lift-and-ﬁnd ﬂaps and easy-to-turn pages.

“Scrim on the Run,” by Madi Hannan

Known for his wiry fur and mischievous antics, Scrim has become a beloved ﬁgure in the city, darting through neighborhoods, dodging potholes and leaving a trail of smiles wherever he goes.

“Wally the Seafood Allergic Walrus,” by Alice Hoyt, M.D

The story is for children, parents and educators. It emphasizes the importance of understanding and managing food allergies, being prepared with necessary medications such as “EpiFriend,” and displaying empathy in emergency situations It also highlights the signiﬁcance of forgiveness and friendship.

“Real River Rats,” by Anna Romano Johnson Huey and his family of river rats live along the batture of the Mississippi River

near New Orleans. He dreams of riding the bridge train atop the Huey P. Long Bridge and exploring the world beyond his family’s home. Follow along on an adventure that weaves through some of Louisiana’s most fascinating characters and famous landmarks.

“The Little Bead Tree,” by Erin Rovin In New Orleans, a little oak tree asks Grand Oak why it is so small in comparison. The Grand Oak replies that the young one is special and will one day everyone will see. As the seasons change and the tree grows, the young tree continues to ask why it isn’t as big, or as full of leaves, or strong and sturdy The Grand Oak encourages it to have patience, stay grounded, and have trust in the future.

TAKE ME OUT: Local historians Derby Gisclair and Ed Branley will give a joint presentation titled “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” at 7 p.m. Nov 20 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.

The pair will cover numerous topics relating to local baseball, including the beginning of baseball in 1870 when a team from Cincinnati journeyed to New Orleans to play against local amateur clubs, and New Orleans as a hotbed of baseball activity in the 1880s and 1890s.

DECEMBER STARGAZING: The Pontchartrain

SPANISH CLASS: The Terrytown Library, 680 Heritage Ave., Terrytown, hosts a Spanish class that is geared toward younger learners but open to all ages. The next lesson occurs from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Nov 18.

Portions of each lesson are aimed at different age ranges to accommodate as many levels of learners as possible. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. All class materials are free. Each weekly lesson is an independent, nonrepeating class.

TABLE READ TUESDAY: Actors, readers, and writers ages 18 and older are invited to submit materials ahead of the gathering, and patrons can take part in a table-read and share script ideas.

The event occurs from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9 at Lakeshore Library, 1000 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie.

MEMORY SUPPORT: Two Memory Cafés, social gatherings for people living with dementia and their care partners, are coming up this month:

n Lakeshore Library: 11 a.m. Nov 20 n Westwego Library: 10 to 11:30 a.m. Nov 25.

The cafes offer a comfortable and welcoming environment to socialize and participate in activities. They also aim to reduce stigma by providing a break from focusing on cognitive decline, allowing people to connect with others who understand their situation.