MOMS on the MOVE
New Orleans area mothers monetize creativity in business
BY CELESTE TURNER
Contributing writer
Modern-day mothers are doing it all: managing households, building businesses and online brands, redefining motherhood as they turn passions into profit.
From answering emails at school drop-off to taking calls during naptime and posting digital content on the side, many are in constant motion, striving to juggle work and family
Their efforts, often carried out behind the scenes, deserve special recognition in May
Despite their strong presence in the labor force, working mothers in Louisiana continue to face challenges, including access to childcare and income stability, according to WalletHub. The finance company looked at childcare, professional opportunities and work-life balance for mothers across the nation. WalletHub deemed Louisiana to be one of the worst states for working moms
Still, Louisiana women navigate balancing family responsibilities with entrepreneurial ambition, and a few New Orleans-area moms share their success stories about the balance of motherhood With nearly 40,000 followers, Nicole Caridad Ralston, a mom to adopted 3-year-old twins and a children’s book author, has spent a decade showcasing New Orleans food on Instagram. Known as a food ambassador, Ralston builds relationships with chefs and restaurants while spotlighting their cuisine and cultural history through her brand, “Off the Eaten Path NOLA.”
“I moved back to New Orleans in 2012 and began writing for a magazine about food,” Ralston, who has a doctorate in educational leadership and administration, said “It later grew into an Instagram account in 2016, taking a deeper dive into this city’s food and its cultural history.”
Ralston showcases New Orleans’ diverse flavors through the story of two young children discovering the origins of gumbo in her 2025 children’s book, “Toodie and Roodie the Foodies.”
“I was exposed to so many different foods growing up,” Ralston said. “Having a mother from Cuba opens your palate to all cultures.”
Today, Ralston owns a consulting firm and splits her time among family, work and her platform, @eatenpathnola. She continues to produce high-quality content daily while also working as a birth doula and an adjunct professor at the University of New Orleans.
“I have a full-time business,” Ralston said. “So I’m really good at managing my time. Weekends are our family time.”
Like Ralston, New Orleans-based esthetician and digital creator Eboni Dillon prioritizes family while
ä See MOMS, page 2G
New Orleans animal shelters need the most help in the summertime
There’s a predictable shift that happens every year around this time, and if you work or volunteer in animal welfare, you can almost set your watch by it. As the school year wraps up, students who once filled volunteer slots to meet service hour requirements suddenly disappear Just weeks ago, I had more volunteers emailing than shifts available. Now? Plenty of open shifts and not enough help. Meanwhile, nothing inside the shelter changes. The animals are still here. They still need to be
fed, walked, cleaned up after and — just as importantly — loved on. The work doesn’t take a summer break. Animal shelters and rescues operate 365 days a year There are no “slow seasons” when it comes to caring for homeless pets. Dogs still need exercise. Cats still need socialization. Kennels still need to be cleaned. And behind the scenes, there’s an ongoing list of tasks that keep everything running.
ABOVE: Devon Turner, hugs Sidney Coleman, left, after a tour of the New Orleans Women & Children’s Shelter during a GiveNOLA Day BBQ and open house at the organization’s new Mid-City location in New Orleans. LEFT: ah’loni JohnsonStokes, 2, plays a game during the GiveNOLA Day BBQ and open house.
Nicole Caridad Ralston
Dillon
PHOTO BY JOHN MCCUSKER
Volunteer Keely Merritt, of ARNO, walks a rescue dog at Christ Anglican Catholic Church’s annual blessing of the pets. Traci
RESCUE
STAFF PHOTOS BY BRETT DUKE
maintaining an Instagram following of more than 200,000
“Balance is something I’m still figuring out every day,” Dillon, a 35-year-old mother of four said. “I focus on being intentional with my time, and including my family in my content helps a lot.”
A 7th Ward native, Dillon uses her Instagram account, @i_eboni, to share content on food, family, beauty and the New Orleans lifestyle, while also seeing a surge in followers on Facebook and TikTok.
“I use my platforms to share helpful information, resources and real-life experiences that families can relate to,” said Dillon. “I also support Black-owned businesses by bringing awareness to them and helping increase their foot traffic.”
Another mother with a growing social media presence, Katherine Roser balances raising her 2-year-old daughter, teaching pre-K2 full-time and running a homemade bone broth business on Instagram (@twoladles_)
“Being a 29-year-old full-time working mom isn’t for the weak,” said Roser, who started “Two Ladles” with her mother, Julie Simmons, in December, 2025.
“Working with toddlers, raising my own, running a cooking business and staying true to myself as a wife, family member and friend isn’t always easy, but it’s what
truly fulfills me.”
After graduating from NOCHI culinary school, Roser began cooking at home during the COVID-19 pandemic and quickly built a large client base on Instagram.
“Before I knew it, I had 100-plus clients that I was cooking for,” she said.
After marrying, moving to Dallas, and becoming pregnant, she returned to the area, settling in Metairie, where repeated requests for her cooking led her to create her slow-simmered, “soulnourishing” bone broth.
“There are so many health benefits,” Roser said, noting the ingredients are locally sourced from her friend’s farm, Pearl River Pastures. “This bone broth can elevate any dish.”
Local sisters and moms Morgan Rathke and Taylor Culotta have also built a side business
PHOTO
using social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. As neighbors, they work part-time on their brand while each raises two children as a full-time stay-athome mothers.
“We run the business out of Taylor’s front office in her home,” Rathke said. “This allows us to work through nap time when our kids are home.”
The business, Pens and Needles Co., which now offers paper designs and embroidered items, began four years ago with a single-needle embroidery machine capable of producing one color at a time.
“Today, we have 3 multi-needle machines,” said Culotta, who is expecting her third child in September “Back-to-school time is our busiest time of year, where we get orders for embroidered lunch kits, nap mats and other
SHELTERS
Continued from page 1G
At organizations like Animal Rescue New Orleans, volunteers aren’t just helpful, they’re essential. Without them, daily operations would look very different. And yet, summer is when many shelters feel the biggest gap. Vacations, changing routines and students heading home all contribute to a noticeable drop in volunteer support. It’s understandable, but it leaves a real need behind.
school items.”
To meet demand, Rathke and Culotta recently launched a website and expanded their embroidery business to include hats, bags and other adult items.
“Building our brand while our families continue to grow has been the biggest challenge,” Rathke said. “Time is limited, but we are grateful for the ability to do it all.”
What began as simple posts answering skincare questions has evolved into a full-time Instagram-based business for New Orleans mother Melissa Coleman. Her path to entrepreneurship began with one goal: education.
“Mrs. Derm really started organically,” said Coleman, a 47-year-old wife of a boardcertified dermatologist. “I spent a lot of time in Patrick’s practice seeing patients overwhelmed, over-marketed and using too
many products. So I started sharing content to simplify and cut through the nonsense.”
According to Coleman, Mrs. Derm, which launched in 2023, allows subscribers to ask skincare questions and purchase products on her website, colemancosmetic. com.
“A lot of brands are built around expansion,” Coleman said. “Mrs. Derm is the opposite. I’m focused on what actually works.”
For Coleman, her platform (@mrs.derm) has fueled growing interest in her skincare products, keeping her busy
“I want to continue building a platform that people trust,” said Coleman. Whether stay-at-home parents, entrepreneurs or online influencers, these mothers are reshaping traditional expectations and carving out new paths to success.
teens.
Bandleader boot camp, teen hangout and more at public libraries
BY JANE LEGROS Contributing writer
Every month, the library partners with the New Orleans Pride Center to host “Express Yourself!,” a hangout for queer and trans teens at Main Library, 219 Loyola Ave. From 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. May 14, youth ages 11 to 18 are invited to enjoy games, activities and pizza.
This month, attendees will celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month with a variety of sensory crafting activities that create a relaxing space through hands-on creativity Participants will use slime-making and modeling clay to craft and sculpt what’s on their minds alongside peers. Visit nolalibrary.co/expressyourself to register and help plan supplies.
Free shots at the library
The Greater New Orleans Immunization Network at Manning Family Children’s will provide free vaccines for children at the Algiers Regional Library, 3014 Holiday Drive, from 1 p.m to 4 p.m. May 13. Families with children under 18 can receive free shots. No appointments are necessary Bring the children’s birth certificates or passports, and, if applicable, immunization records. If the child is new to Louisiana, all required documents must be submitted at manningchildrens.org/ immunization before the child is seen.
The event is sponsored by the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library Bandleader boot camp
The New Orleans Public Library and Music and Culture Coalition New Orleans are partnering to present a “Bandleader Boot Camp” workshop at 11:30 a.m. May 13 at Nora Navra Library, 1902 St. Bernard Ave.
This session offers instruction and advice from musicians to other musicians seeking to advance their careers and potentially lead their own band. Topics will include booking tips, leadership techniques, marketing and visibility, and financial management basics.
‘Create & Play: Journey to Outer Space’
Children ages 2-5 are invited to “Create & Play: Journey to Outer Space,” at 10:30 a.m. May 20 at Cita Dennis Hubbell Library, 725 Pelican Ave. Attendees will practice early literacy skills through space-themed crafts, hands-on activities and snacks.
Visit nolalibrary.org/early-lit to learn more about library resources to help you raise your reader, including daily skills-building calendars, digital tools and dozens of free programs around the city each week.
Jane LeGros is the director of marketing and communications for the New Orleans Public
If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, now is the time. One of the biggest misconceptions about volunteering is that it requires a huge time commitment. It doesn’t. A few hours here and there can make a meaningful difference.
Whether you’re a teacher with a more flexible summer schedule, a retiree looking to stay active, someone working nontraditional hours or just an animal lover with a little extra time, there’s a place for you.
At ARNO, volunteer opportunities are available seven days a week, with a wide range of tasks to fit different schedules and interests. Some roles are handson with animals — walking dogs, cleaning cat condos, socializing cats, helping with feeding and cleaning. Others support the shelter behind the scenes with tasks such as laundry, organizing donations, mopping, sweeping, dishes and more.
There are even opportunities outside the shelter walls — transporting pets to vet appointments, helping at off-site adoption events, taking photos or writing bios to help animals get noticed. Not ready to volunteer on-site? You can still help. Fostering is one of the most impactful ways to get involved. Opening your home, even temporarily, gives animals a break from the shelter environment and helps free up space for others in need. For dogs especially, something as simple as a car ride, a walk in a new place or a quiet afternoon outside the kennel can make a huge difference in their well-being. Even short-term outings can help reduce stress and improve adoptability
For students, summer is actually a great opportunity to get a head start on required service hours for the upcoming school year Many organizations also accept court-ordered community service hours, making volunteering both accessible and beneficial.
This year marks 19 years since I first signed up for a Sunday morning dog-walking shift at ARNO. What started as a simple
PROVIDED PHOTO Animal Rescue New Orleans rescued Stanley from another shelter after he ‘ran out of time,’ offering him a second chance at adoption. Since he’s only 7 months old, there are plenty of years ahead for fun, smiles, squeaky toys and treats. During his stay at ARNO, he’s blossomed into a charming, spunky and silly puppy. He loves making new friends and thrives in dog playgroups. Stanley would love to join a family that has kids, too. Stanley enjoys a long walk, a car ride or a good snuggle up on the couch together He can’t wait to make your house feel like a home. To learn more, email adoptionteam@animalrescueneworleans. org or submit an application at https://animalrescueneworleans.org/ adoptfoster/.
commitment turned into something much bigger for me, something that has stayed with me year after year That’s the thing about volunteering. You may show up to help, but more often than not, you end up getting just as much in return. Shelters and rescues rely on consistent support to keep going, and every hour, every task, every bit of time given truly matters.
Here are a few organizations in the New Orleans metro that have volunteer opportunities. Check with the individual organizations on requirements as there may be age restrictions, etc. n Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO): https://animalrescueneworleans.org/volunteer/ n Louisiana SPCA: https://www louisianaspca.org/get-involved/ volunteer/ n Jefferson SPCA: https://www jeffersonspca.org/volunteerprogram n Zeus’ Rescues: https://zeusrescues.org/volunteer/ n Spaymart: https://spaymart. org/volunteer/ n Take Paws Rescue: https:// www.takepawsrescue.org/volunteer-opportunites n Tangi Humane Society: http://
www.tangihumanesociety.org/ volunteering
So, if your routine looks a little different this summer, consider filling that extra time in a way that makes a difference. Because for the animals waiting for homes, there is no “off season.” Events
n Saturday, May 16: Brunch with Ruby — Ruby Slipper (4236 Veterans Blvd., Metairie) Round up day for ARNO from noon to 2:30 p.m. There will be adoptable dogs, so have a great brunch and meet your new best friend. For more info, email adopt@animalrescueneworleans.org. n Sunday, May 17: Yappy Hour for ARNO at The Bulldog Uptown (3236 Magazine Street) from noon to 3 p.m. The Bulldog will donate 20% of all proceeds to ARNO. For more info, email 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.
Melissa Coleman
Katherin Roser
Taylor Culotta and Morgan Rathke
PET OF THE WEEK
Mount Carmel Academy honors winter athletes
Staff report
Mount Carmel Academy honored students for their athletic and academic achievements at the Winter Athletic Awards ceremony in March.
The Outstanding Winter Athlete Award went to Violet LeBlanc in recognition of outstanding athletic ability, good sportsmanship and inspiration to teammates.
Winter MVPs were Finley Fitzpatrick, Nora Karl, Violet LeBlanc, Josephine Randol and Elizabeth Seaman.
The Most Valuable Player Award goes to athletes who consistently contribute to the team’s success and inspire teammates to perform at a higher level.
The Coaches’ Award, presented to team members who set the example, support their teammates and seldom lack spirit or motivation, was given to Kate Cerise, Lily Dupont, Finley Fitzpatrick, Gracelyn Fuselier, Corinne Gentry, Madeline Jorden, Stella Junius, Sydnie Lizano, Madelyn Toscano and Elle Vodanovich.
The Outstanding Member Pin, awarded to athletes who contribute to their team’s success through practice efforts, consistent sportsmanship and support for their teammates, went to Avery Albert, Sabrina Berner, Ella
Brulet, Mackenzie Gayé, Reese Gilmore, Julia Kirsch, Ellie LaRose, Molly McGavern and Natalie Ricks.
The Louisiana High School Athletic Association All-Academic Scholar Award goes to seniors who maintain a 3.5 GPA or higher while participating in varsity sports. Mount Carmel athletes who received this award were Avery Albert, Olivia Brulet, Lily Francingues, Josephine Randol and Juliet Wax
Winter MVPs are, from left, Violet LeBlanc, Finley Fitzpatrick, Nora Karl, Josephine Randol and Elizabeth
PROVIDED PHOTOS
Coaches’ Award winners are, front row from left, Kate Cerise, Sydnie Lizano, Madelyn Toscano, Lily Dupont and Stella Junius; back row, Elle Vodanovich, Finley Fitzpatrick, Corinne Gentry, Gracelyn Fuselier and Madeline Jorden.
Outstanding Members are, front row from left, Julia Kirsch, Sabrina Berner, Ellie LaRose and Reese Gilmore; back row, Mackenzie Gayé, Natalie Ricks, Ella Brulet, Molly McGavern and Avery Albert.
Seaman.
LHSAA All-Academic Scholar Award winners are, from left, Juliet Wax, Lily Francingues, Avery Albert, Olivia Brulet and Josephine Randol.
Violet LeBlanc, outstanding winter athlete
COMMUNITY EVENTS
MIDCITY BAYOU BOOGALOO: The Broadside will host three days of music, May 15-17, and a free, familyfriendly outdoor market on Saturday and Sunday, featuring artists and food vendors at 600 N. Broad St. in New Orleans. Ticketed guests can enjoy live music throughout the weekend, with programming across two stages. Canopy Club VIP passholders will also receive access to The Broadside as part of their ticket, along with additional beverage perks at the venue. Tickets start at $22.20. www.simpletix.com/e/midcity-bayou-boogaloo-celebrates20-year-tickets-267914
ADULT SOCIAL CLUB SOCK HOP: The JCC will host its inaugural dance, 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. May 16 at the New Orleans JCC, 5342 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans. The event will feature music, dancing, specialty drinks, and a dessert bar. Costumes are encouraged. Tickets start at $35. www.nojcc.org/events/2026/05/16/ special-events/adult-sock-hop/. PARTY FOR THE PLANET: ENDANGERED SPECIES DAY: The Audubon Zoo and Audubon Nature Institute will continue their conservation event series through June, including a party from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 16 at the zoo, 6500 Magazine St., New Orleans. Attendees can celebrate, learn about the world’s most vulnerable animals, discover efforts to protect endangered species, meet conservation experts, and enjoy interactive exhibits that inspire action to help save wildlife. This event is included with admission or an Audubon Membership. https:// audubonnatureinstitute.org/partyfor-the-planet.
BUBBLE DAY IN THE FRENCH QUAR-
TER: The celebration of all things bubble will take place from 1:307:30 p.m. May 17, in the 1500 block of St. Phillip Street in New Orleans. Music will be provided by DJ GlitterCock. Bring your own bubbles, along with bubble guns, machines and wands.
GERMANY’S GREAT BAVARIAN
CIRCUS: The European family circus, founded in Bavaria and performed by generations of the Spindler family, will perform May 21-31 at the Oakwood Center, 197 Westbank Expressway in Gretna. The afternoon and evening performances feature aerial acts, acrobatics, juggling, comedy, and other family entertainment. Tickets start at $14.99. Information on individual showtimes and ticket sales is available online at GreatBavarianCircus.com/.
GREEK FESTIVAL 5K AND KIDS ONE-
MILE RUN: Registration is open for the annual run sponsored by the New Orleans Track Club, to be held May 23 at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 1200 Allen Toussaint Blvd., New Orleans. The kids one-mile run starts at 8 a.m., and the 5K starts at 8:30 a.m. Race
bibs include two free entries to the 36th Greek Festival with early entry. Registration starts at $50. www greekfest5k.com.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
ASIAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL: The family-friendly event featuring cultural performances, food and craft vendors and community organizations will be held 11 a.m.-5 p.m. May 16 at the carousel at Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd. in Metairie. Admission is free. https://apasnola. com/event-6325893.
FAMILEE DAY FESTIVAL: The inaugural event, hosted by Keith Lee, will take place from noon to 1o p.m. May 16 at the UNO Lakefront, 6801 Franklin Ave. in New Orleans. The festival will feature a curated food village led by Keith Lee, highlighting vendors including Thistle & Rye, Velvet Grain, Salt + Sage, Iron Kettle and Copper Root. Entertainment will be provided by Kevin “KevOnStage” Fredericks, Kirk Franklin, Mannie Fresh, Tobe Nwigwe, Andra Day and Gracie’s Corner. Attendees can enjoy carnival rides, a family obstacle course and interactive experiences. Tickets start at $69.50. famileeday.com.
RISE & THRIVE MINI FESTIVAL: The Fight Like a Warrior (FLAW) Foundation will host its community celebration honoring cancer survivors and their families, 1:30-5 p.m. May 17 at Docville Farm, 5124 E St./East St. Bernard Highway in Violet. The event will include live music, health screenings, cancer survivorship resources, vendors, kids’ activities
and free entry. flawfoundation.org.
WORTH THE DRIVE
PIRATE DAY IN THE BAY: A two-day celebration that includes a pub crawl, a children’s walkin’ parade, a golf cart parade, live entertainment, vendors and costume contests will be hosted by the Mystic Krewe of the Seahorse May 15-16 in Old Town Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. Most events are free and family-friendly Details of the schedule and tickets are available online. www.mkotsh. com/pirate-day-in-the-bay GONZALES JAMBALAYA FESTIVAL:
The Jambalaya Capital of the World is the setting for the 59th annual festival, to be held May 21-24 at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center, 9039 S. St. Landry Ave. in Gonzales. Activities include food vendors, rides, craft booths, live music and the jambalaya cookoff. Admission on Thursday is free. Admission for Friday and Sunday is $5 per day. Saturday is $10. Weekend passes are $15. www jambalayafestival.net/.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
FREE IMMUNIZATIONS FOR CHIL-
DREN: The Greater New Orleans Immunization Network at Manning Family Children’s will provide free vaccines to children up to age 18, 1:30-4:30 p.m. May 13 in the large meeting room at the Algiers Regional Library, 3014 Holiday Drive in New Orleans. No appointment is necessary. Record submission is required before the event at manningchildrens.org/immunization.
https://neworleans.libnet.info/ event/16361326.
FUNDRAISERS & GALAS
MAGNOLIA BALL: Tickets are on sale for the annual fundraiser at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, to be held from 7-11 p.m. June 6. The event, at 925 Camp St., will feature live music, martini bars and a silent auction. Tickets start at $200. https://ogdenmuseum.org/magnoliaball/. WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES: The series of wine pairing dinners returns for its 33rd year, running from May through July. Each of the nine dinners is crafted by the host chef, with every course designed to complement the wines served that evening. Dinner prices range from $135 to $200 and include tax and gratuity. All dinners begin at 6:30 p.m. and benefit WYES. Reservations are available online. www wyes.org/tv/wyes-originals/seasonof-good-tastes.
CRAWS FOR THE CAUSE: The Pork Belly Cartel will host a familyfriendly day with all-you-can-eat crawfish, live music and an open car show, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 16, at Destrehan Plantation, 13034 River Road in Destrehan. Tickets start at $25. Every dollar raised supports Hogs for the Cause, the world’s largest pediatric brain cancer research charity. www.destrehanplantation. org/events/craws-for-the-cause-atdestrehan-plantation.
ART & SOUL: The NOCCA Foundation will host its annual fundraiser at 7:30 p.m. May 16 at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, 2800 Chartres St. in New Orleans. A patron party will be held 6-7:30 p.m., and an alumni after-party is 10 p.m.-midnight. The event includes live music, food, portraits and poetry. Tickets start at $50. Event proceeds benefit the NOCCA Foundation’s mission to invest in young artists, their mentors, alumni and the community. https:// noccafoundation.org/2026/03/thenocca-foundation-and-the-merauxfoundation-present-the-2026-artsoulgala-on-may-16/.
THEATER & CONCERTS
“GOD OF CARNAGE”: The Tony Award-winning play by Yasmina Reza will run through May 17 at Le Petit Théâtre Du Vieux Carré, 616 St. Peter St. in New Orleans. Evening performances start at 7:30 p.m. Matinee times vary. Tickets start at $22 via OvationTix. www.lepetittheatre.com/events/god-of-carnage.
“PRIMARY TRUST”: Crescent City Stage will present the regional premiere of the 2024 Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Eboni Booth, May 7-24 at the Contemporary Arts Center’s Black Box Theatre, 900 Camp St. in New Orleans. Curtain is at 7:30 p.m. for evening performances and at 2:30 p.m. for Sunday matinees.
Tickets start at $27.38 via SimpleTix. www.crescentcitystage.com/. “CHERRIES JUBILEE”: An original play written by four women, Jefferson Performing Arts Society will perform this comedy May 8-17 at the Westwego Performing Arts Theatre, 177 Sala Ave. in Westwego. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. for evening shows and 2 p.m. for Sunday matinees. Tickets start at $42 via Ticketmaster. www.jpas.org/ performance/cherries-jubilee/. CRESCENT CITY BIG BAND: The band’s next music event is a concert of standards from the golden age of big bands, starting at 7 p.m. May 14 in the Jefferson and Napoleon rooms at East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave. in Metairie. https:// calendar.jplibrary.net/event/musicevent-crescent-city-big-band-26109. “RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA”: Tickets are on sale for the Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts production of the 1957 musical, running May 15-31 at the theater, 325 Minor St. in Kenner. Curtain time is 7:30 p.m. for evening shows and 2 p.m. for matinees. Tickets start at $43. www.rivertowntheaters.com/event/Cinderella.
“PEACE, LOVE, & GLOW”: Tickets are on sale for the Broadway Open Stage eighth annual showcases May 16 in the Shell Theatre at the Dr. Rodney R. Lafon Performing Arts Center, 275 Judge E. Dufresne Parkway in Luling. The 11 a.m. showcase will feature Shine, Rise, Stage and Leveled Tumble students. The 5:30 p.m. showcase is for all students. Tickets start at $7. https://lafonartscenter.vbotickets. com/events.
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN MEN’S GLEE CLUB: The second-oldest collegiate chorus in the United States will perform at 7 p.m. May 14 at Temple Sinai, 6227 St. Charles Ave in New Orleans. Their repertoire incorporates selections from different musical styles and periods including Renaissance motets, Romantic anthems, opera choruses, folk songs, spirituals, contemporary works and Michigan songs. https:// templesinainola.com/events/university-of-michigans-mens-glee-club/. “MEDEA”: The NOLA Project will close out its 21st season with the classic Greek tragedy by Euripides, translated by Alistair Elliot, May 1530 at the Lafitte Greenway Station, 436 N. Norman C. Francis Parkway in New Orleans. Directed by Gab Reisman, the production features NOLA Project ensemble members Natalie Boyd, Megan Whittle and Kristin Witt, along with performers Robinson J. Cyprian, Jon Greene, Aria Jackson and Roney Jones. Seating is bring-your-own general admission. Camp chairs are recommended for the outdoor, concrete venue. Tickets start at $20. All performances start at 7:30 p.m. This production con-
ä See AROUND, page 11G
PROVIDED PHOTO
Party for the Planet: Endangered Species Day will be May 16 at Audubon Zoo.
Republican Women participate in Love The Boot Week
participated in
Harvey Golden Age Club attends Spring Fiesta
The Harvey Golden Age Club members recently attended the Spring Fiesta dinner and dance given by the Nicholson Golden Age Club Harvey members attending were, seated from left, Tammy Anderson, Elda Olsen and Julie Hernandez; and standing Gerri Palisi, C.J Breaux (guest), Linda Breaux Evelyn DiMarco Marie Trosclair Barbara Besson, Jerry Anderson, Comila Overby, Rosalie Brown, Billy Dimarco, Elva Habisreitinger Sue Richard, Steven Brown, Henry Rodriguez, Jr Barbara Hoffman, June Olando, Lelia Bernard and Ted Matherne.
Elks Lodge 30 recently installed its officers for the 2026-2027 Elk year First row, from left, are Gwen Ward, chaplain; Diane Krohn, secretary; Eugene Reyes, exalted ruler; and Connie Armstead, tiler; second row, Charles Schmuck, lodge esquire; David Cain, treasurer; Kenny Buuck, leading knight; Brian Baye, five-year trustee; Sean Triplett, loyal knight; David Koscelniak, lecturing knight; and Sharrieff Armstead, one-year trustee; and third row, EJ Ward, lodge inner guard. Elks Lodge installs new officers
The Ladies Leukemia League recently presented grants totaling $175,000 to worthy doctors for leukemia research at its annual grants luncheon. The Ladies Leukemia League raised funds at the annual Fete de Noel Seated, from left, are Matthew Burrow, Ph.D Tulane; Zhen Lin, M.D Ph.D Tulane; Priyanka Sharma, Ph.D University of Houston; and Katerina Kourentzi, Ph.D., MD Anderson Cancer Center Standing are Lisa Baynham, president of Ladies Leukemia League; Angie Cicero and Rosalie Edwards, Ladies Leukemia League grants chairs; and Kathy Pastorek and Michele Danos, past co-presidents of Ladies Leukemia League. Not pictured are Elizabeth Martin, Ph.D., and Jorge Belgodere, Ph.D., both of Tulane. Ladies Leukemia League awards grants
PROVIDED PHOTOS
The Republican Women’s Club of Jefferson Parish
Love the Boot Week by picking up trash at the Kenner Laketown Boat Launch. From left are Felix Figueroa, Kathy Bevis, Linda Doyle, Alison Figueroa with Rex the boxer Faith Peperone, Georgine Bienert, Rick Payton, Tina Payton, Peggy Abadie Barbara Lawler and Jeannine Thibodaux.
NICHOLLS STATE UNIVERSITY: Nich-
olls will hold its 118th commencement on May 16 at Stopher Gymnasium, 906 E. 1st St. in Thibodaux.
Session I at 9 a.m. will recognize graduates from the Al Danos College of Business and the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. Session II at noon will feature the College of Liberal Arts and the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute Session III at 3 p.m. will conclude with the Thibodaux Regional Health System School of Nursing and the College of Sciences and Technology ST. MARY’S DOMINICAN:
Mason
n Dominican senior Sydney Mason has been offered $1 million in scholarships from universities including Howard, Clark Atlanta, Tuskegee Seton Hall, Loyola, Mississippi State, LSU, Hampton, Providence College Alabama State, and American University. An Alpha honor roll student with a 4.0 GPA, she is a member of Mu Alpha Theta, the Campus Ministry Club, the National Honor Society the National English Honor Society, the Cultural Diversity Club, and the Student Ambassadors. She interned at NORD’s Rosenwald Recreation Center and is a member of the Knights of Peter Claver Junior Daughters She is the daughter of Carla Bringier-Mason and Judge Omar Mason of New Orleans.
and Carolyn
president and principal at Dominican.
n Anastasia Redmann, a senior at Dominican, has been named a recipient of the Rev. Thomas E. Chambers Scholastic Award. The $1,500 award is presented each year to one graduating male and one graduating female student from an Archdiocese of New Orleans Catholic School, based on the candidates’ Catholic values, leadership, and service. Redmann is an Alpha honor roll student with a 4.58 GPA. At
is the daughter of Kevin Redmann and Jennifer Redmann, of New Orleans.
Willow School student advances to state finals in the National Civics Bee
SCHOOLS
Louisiana Society SAR honors Brumley
Loyola’s advertising and public relations teams compete in national competition
Staff report
Student teams from Loyola University’s School of Communication and Design competed in national advertising and public relations competitions this spring.
Loyola’s Ad Team placed second overall at the District 7 regional level of the National Student Advertising Competition, hosted by the American Advertising Federation and held earlier this month at the University of Tennessee. The team created a campaign for the NFL, this year’s corporate sponsor and client. Students researched the product and its competition, identified potential problem areas, and devised a fully integrated campaign for the NFL.
The Loyola Ad Team consisted of Isabel Barattini, St Rose; Maria Del Pilar Chen Bucaro, Guatemala; Piper Demman, Omaha, Neb.; Kaliegh Dyson, Baton Rouge; Phylis Gagliano, Metairie; Emily Mazur Panama City, Fla.; Carrie Adams Olsen, Houston; Ava Pivec, Baltimore; Margaret Powell, LaPlace; Suhita Rachamallu, Baton Rouge; Sophia Renzi, Baltimore; Gabriela Santos, Bay-
amon, Puerto Rico; Morgan Taylor, Houston; and Xavier Tremblay Oconomowoc, Wis. Santos, a Loyola senior, won the Best Presenter Award.
Adjunct Professor Christy Rowley advised this year’s Ad Team. Aimee Alleman, assistant profes-
Mount Carmel athletes announce college plans
Twelve members of the Mount Carmel Academy Class of 2026 will continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. Pictured are, back row from left, Annabelle LaBure, beach volleyball, Southern Mississippi; AnnaBeth Cuicchi, cheerleading, Delta State; Olivia Duran, Ragin’ Jazz Dance Team, University of Louisiana at Lafayette; Claire Murphy, softball, Baton Rouge Community College; and Hayden Traub, softball, Nicholls; front row, Peyton Hinyub, cheerleading, Southeastern; Lucy Quintana, cross country and track, Alabama; Ava Sims, swimming, University of Wyoming; Mia Lopez, volleyball, UNO; and Rebecca Vindel, swimming, Centenary Not pictured are Stella Junius, cross country and track, LSU; and Miranda Weeks, track-pole vault, University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
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sor of advertising, chairs the Department of Mass Communication at Loyola. Rowley and Alleman were members of Loyola’s 2005 Ad Team, which won the District 7 National Student Advertising Competition with their campaign for Yahoo!
Loyola’s student PR team participated in the Bateman competition, a national case study competition under the auspices of the Public Relations Society of America that challenges teams of students to research, plan, implement, and evaluate a publicrelations campaign for an actual client. Students developed a campaign for ACCESS Newswire. The team received an honorable mention in the 2026 competition. Members of the team were Blythe Welch, New Orleans; Meghan D Hall Birmingham Ala.; Sky L. Pele, San Diego; Miriam A. MacArio-Rivera, Memphis, Tenn.; Jordyn K. Minor, Baton Rouge; and Lydia F. Hilt, Nashville, Tenn. Jeffrey Ory adjunct professor and a 1997 Loyola communication graduate, was the team’s adviser Loyola Bateman teams have been honored 18 of the last 23 years, with six first-place wins, including the 2013 campaign for Raising Awareness of the Consequences of Youth Bullying and the 2015 campaign for Home Matters. Shaniece Bickham is director of the School of Communication and Design at Loyola.
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Anastasia Redmann, left,
Favre, vice
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Eliezer Finger a middle school student at The Willow School, earned third place at the regional competition of the National Civics Bee and will move on
the next round, the state finals in Shreveport at the end of June.
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The Louisiana Society of the Sons of the American Revolution has awarded the Silver Good Citizenship Medal to Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley in recognition of his leadership, service, and commitment to improving education for Louisiana residents Brumley began his career as a classroom teacher and coach and has served as superintendent in DeSoto and Jefferson parishes. He holds a doctorate in education from Stephen F. Austin State University Pictured is Brumley with Sons of the American Revolution members, from left to right, Mitch Pratt, Joel Whitehead, Steve Kubicek, Jeff Truax and Derrick Spell.
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Loyola Ad Team members are, bottom row from left, Phylis Gagliano, Gabriela Santos, Isabel Barattini and Pili Chen; middle row, Suhita Rachamallu, Carrie Adams Olsen, Sophia Renzi, Xavier Tremblay and Piper Demman; and back row, Kaliegh Dyson, Margaret Mary Powell, Emily Mazur, Morgan Taylor and Ava Pivec.
AProject.com/medea.
CULINARY EXPERIENCES
BOURBON & BUBBLES SOUTH-
SHORE: Tickets are on sale for the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience tasting event, hosted at The Gallery Venue by Pigéon Catering & Events, 755 Tchoupitoulas St. in New Orleans, 6-8:30 p.m. May 15. It will feature a curated selection of handcrafted bourbons and sparkling wines, paired with bites from restaurants. Tickets are $99. www nowfe.com/bourbon-bubbles.
DUTCH OVEN SOCIETY: The Wego Cookers, part of the Louisiana Dutch Oven Society will meet May 16 to cook Mexican dishes at Pavilion 7 in Bayou Segnette State Park, 7777 Westbank Expressway in Westwego. All those interested in outdoor cooking in old-fashioned black iron pots are invited to attend. Set up begins at 9 a.m., and sampling of the creations begins at 11:30 a.m. The event is free, but an entrance fee of $3 is required for those under 62 to enter the park. (504) 756-1853, jheiken209@gmail.com.
DINING BY DESIGN: Historic BK House & Gardens will host an evening of creative tablescapes, cuisine and music, 5:30-8:30 p.m. May 17 throughout the museum site encompassing the Parterre Garden, Courtyard and French Quarter home at 1113 Chartres St. in New Orleans Tickets start at $150. www.bkhouse org/programs/.
DEUX FUEGOS: The New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute’s (NOCHI) Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts spring 2026 cohort will present a cross-cultural pop-up restaurant rooted in Louisiana Creole and Mexican traditions May 19-June 12 at NOCHI’s downtown campus, 725 Howard Ave. in New Orleans. Proceeds and donations from Deux Fuegos will support the NOCHI Scholarship Fund. Reservations are available on specific dates between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.nochi. org/deux-fuegos.
DINNER WITH A CURATOR: Museum Senior Historian Bradley W. Hart will present “WWII in the Shadows: Espionage and Counterintelligence in New Orleans,” starting at 6:30 p.m. May 19 in BB’s Stage Door Canteen in the U.S. Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center of the National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St in New Orleans. Tickets are $77 for members and $80 for nonmembers. www.nationalww2museum.org/ events-programs/events/dinner-curator-wwii-shadows-espionage-andcounterintelligence-new-orleans.
MOVIES LAKESHORE MOVIE NIGHT: The Lakeshore Library 1000 W. Esplanade Ave. in Metairie, will host a screen-
ing of “The Phoenician Scheme” at 6:30 p.m. May 13. https://calendar jplibrary.net/event/lakeshore-movie-night-rated-h-m-19708
MOVIES AT MAIN: “The Thin Blue Line,” a 1988 documentary on the murder of a Dallas police officer, will be shown at 2 p.m. May 15 in the first-floor meeting room at the Main Library, 219 Loyola Ave. in New Orleans. https://neworleans.libnet. info/event/16361649.
MOVIES IN THE PARK: NORD Commission will host free movie showings at NORD locations around the parish through May. The movies will begin at dusk. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets, chairs and picnics. The May 15 movie is the 2025 “Superman” starring David Corenswet, to be shown at Kenilworth Playground, 7820 Redfish St. The rain site is Joe W. Brown Rec Center, 5601 Read Blvd. in New Orleans. The screenings are free and open to the public. Participants under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. www.nordc.org.
“ANCESTRAL ARTISTRY” DOCUMENTARY FILM SCREENING: The documentary film, “Ancestral Artistry: The Influence of Africans & Creoles of Color in Louisiana Architecture,” will be shown at noon May 16 at French Quarter Visitor Center, 419 Decatur St. in New Orleans. This film traces 300 years of building traditions — carpentry, masonry, ironwork and plastering — brought by enslaved Africans to French colonial Louisiana that shaped the region’s architecture. Following the film there will audience Q&A with members of the New Orleans Master Crafts Guild. The guild will have tables in the center and be available to discuss their work, 10 a.m.12 noon. There will be hands-on activities for visitors. The program, hosted by the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, is free and open to the public. Reservations are not required. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Doors open five minutes before the program start time. www.nps.gov/jazz.
BOOKS & LITERARY EVENT
NOMA MUSEUM SHOP BOOK SALE:
The Museum Shop at the New Orleans Museum of Art will hold a book sale, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. May 12-17 at the museum in City Park, 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle in New Orleans. Regular-priced books will be available for 20%-50% off, and sale books will be offered at a 70%+ markdown. https://noma.org/event/ noma-museum-shop-book-sale/.
MEET THE AUTHOR: Alex Kor, author of “A Blessing, Not a Burden: My Parents’ Remarkable Holocaust Story and My Fight to Keep Their Legacy Alive,” which traces his journey as the son of Holocaust survivors, will discuss his book May 14 in the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion at the National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St. in New Orleans. A reception will be held at 4:30 p.m., with the pre-
sentation at 5:30. Book signings will follow. This event is free and open to the public. Online participation is available. www.nationalww2museum.org/events-programs/events/ meet-author-dr-alex-kor-blessingnot-burden-my-parents-remarkableholocaust.
FRIENDS OF THE ST. CHARLES
LIBRARY BOOK SALE: The spring sale will be held 9 a.m.-4 p.m. May 15-16 at the East Regional Library, 160 W. Campus Drive in Destrehan. www.myscpl.org/event/friends-stcharles-library-book-sale-21875.
EVENING STORYTIME: Book Banter Books will host author and musician Johnette Downing, reading from her children’s picture book, “My Parrain is the Loup Garou,” followed by a song and activity for young readers, at 6 p.m. May 15 at Parleaux Beer Lab, 634 Lesseps St. in New Orleans. After the reading, kids will participate in a hands-on craft inspired by the book. The event is free and open to families and readers of all ages. www.bookbanterbooks.com.
A RARE EVENING WITH JESMYN
WARD: Baldwin & Co. will host the National Book Award-winning author in conversation with Robert Jones Jr. at 6 p.m. May 19 at McAlister Auditorium at Tulane University, 23 McAlister Drive in New Orleans. Book signings will follow the discussion. Tickets start at $13.59 via Eventbrite. www.baldwinandcobooks.com.
“HOPE HOUSE: A NOVEL”: Author Joe Bond will discuss his debut novel with Anita Raj, executive director of the Newcomb Institute, and Katherine Theall, executive director of the Violence Prevention Institute and of the Center for Youth Equity, at 6 p.m. May 19 at Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St. in New Orleans. https://octaviabooks.com/event/2026-05-19/ hope-house-novel-joe-bond.
AUTHOR NIGHT AT HUBBELL LI-
BRARY: Author Peter M. Wolf will discuss his biography of Leon Godchaux, “Sugar King of Louisiana,” at 6:30 p.m. May 19 in the programming space of the Cita Dennis Hubbell Library, 725 Pelican Ave. in New Orleans. https://neworleans.libnet. info/event/16035943.
CHILDREN’S BOOK SIGNING: Author George S. Corey and artist CLEO will launch their newest children’s book, a ghost-hunter trilogy set in the French Quarter, 5-6:30 p.m. May 20 in the Parterre Garden at the Historic BK House & Gardens, 1113 Chartres St. in New Orleans. The trilogy includes in “The Mardi Gras Mystery,” “The Voodoo Queen of New Orleans” and “The Missing Maid.” The event will include Champagne, juice and treats. Reservations are required for this free event. stephanie@bkhouse. org.
“VIOLENT FEMMES”: Author Nic Brown will be at Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans, at 6 p.m. May 20 to celebrate the release of his latest book, the newest volume in Bloomsbury’s 33 1/3 series of books about music.
Brown will read an excerpt from his book and discuss his work with author E.M. Tran. He will then open the floor to discuss the Violent Femmes. The event will feature music from producer and guitarist Shannon Ferguson of New York City’s indie rock band Longwave. The event is free and open to the public. RSVPs are encouraged via Eventbrite. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com/ events-1/violentfemmes.
MEETINGS
NATIONAL ACTIVE AND RETIRED
FEDERAL EMPLOYEES: The Vernon L. Landry Chapter 1398 of NARFE will hold its monthly meeting and luncheon at 11 a.m. May 13 in the Sicilian Room at Rocky and Carlo’s Restaurant & Bar, 613 W. St. Bernard Highway in Chalmette. All active and retired federal and postal employees interested in learning more about how NARFE advocates legislation and regulations beneficial to federal civilian employees and annuitants under any federal civilian retirement are invited to attend. Pamela.e.mark1953@gmail.com.
LEARNING BEFORE LUNCH: The May 14 meeting will be “Neurological and Legal Aspects of the Dementias,” led by elder law attorney Jason Frank and neurologist Randy Rosenberg, M.D. They will discuss the challenges and concerns of providing both neurological and legal services to individuals with dementia. 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 pastries. The presentation begins at 10 a.m. Annual membership is $2 per person, $30 per couple/double or a $5 donation for an event. www learningbeforelunch.com.
FIGHT LIKE A WARRIOR FOUNDA-
TION: The organization will hold its monthly meeting at 5:30 p.m. May 14 at Rocky & Carlo’s Restaurant & Bar, 601 W. St. Bernard Highway in Chalmette. Cancer patients, survivors, thrivers, caregivers, families and friends are invited to attend. Special menu prices will be available for food. RSVP to info@flawfoundation. org. https://flawfoundation.org/.
SIERRA CLUB: The New Orleans Group of the Sierra Club will hold a program at 6:30 p.m. May 17 at Central St. Matthew UCC, 1333 S Carrollton Ave. in New Orleans. The speaker will be led by Wendy Rihner, discussing the Louisiana Certified Habitat Program, which recognizes properties for using native plants to support wildlife. Rihner is a former board member of Native Plant Initiative of Greater New Orleans and Wild Ones Pontchartrain Basin, which promotes environmentally friendly, sound landscaping to preserve biodiversity through the preservation, restoration and establishment of native plant communities in the Pontchartrain Basin. www.meetup.com/Sierra-ClubDelta-Chapter/.
CLASSES & LECTURES
NORLI LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
PROGRAM: New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute is accepting applications for its 10-month leadership program starting in August 2026. About 50 emerging and established leaders will take part in an immersive curriculum that builds regional awareness, collaboration and leadership through networking, hands-on learning and expert sessions. Topics include education, healthcare, public policy, environment, economic development, inclusive leadership, criminal justice and arts and culture. Residents of Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa and Washington parishes may apply by May 8. Tuition is $3,600; financial aid is available. Apply online. www.norli.org.
PARENT SEMINARS: The Louisiana State Family Engagement Center will host a free parent webinar, “Policy 101: Navigating School Policies with Confidence.” The webinars still begin at 10 a.m. May 16 and May 20 and at 5 p.m. May 21. (833) 792-1874. LINE DANCING CLASSES: Registration is open for the St. Charles Parish Department of Parks and Recreation’s nine-week session in line dancing at the Edward A. Dufresne Community Center Gymnasium, 274 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway in Luling. Classes start June 1 and will take place on Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. No walkins will be permitted. Participants must be 18 and older and should wear tennis shoes and workout clothing. All registrants will receive a T-shirt. Registration is $25. www scpparksandrec.com.
ART STUDI-O: The Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St. in New Orleans, will hold a special sculpture workshop, “Contemplative Clay,” led by ceramist MaPó Kinnord, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. May 16. Participants will create sculptural work through meditation, intuition and free-forming. Work completed in this studio is temporary. Clay will not be fired for the participants to keep. Participants may take the unfired clay with them. Cost is $50 for members, $55 for non-members. All materials are provided. This is an 18+ event. https://ogdenmuseum. org/event/art-studi-o-4.
FREE INDIGENOUS STUDIES LECTURE: Jeffery U. Darensbourg, a words artist, performer, researcher, tour guide and activist for Indigenous languages, will present “Introduction to the Atakapa-Ishak People and Language” at 7 p.m. May 19 at Mudlark Public Theatre, 1200 Port St. in New Orleans. The event is free and open to the public. No registration is required. www.wwoz.org/ events/1337831.
