The Crescent City Advocate (12/25/14)

STUDENTS CELEBRATE THE JOY OF THE SEASON. SEE SCHOOL COVERAGE, ä Page 7G

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JEFFERSON • NEW ORLEANS • PLAQUEMINES • RIVER PARISHES • ST. BERNARD

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THURSDAY DECEMBER 25, 2014 H

THENEWORLEANSADVOCATE.COM

Lynne Jensen

THROW ME SOMETHIN’

N.O.-style concert entertains for Christmas Many New Orleans families are gathering to celebrate a very special day.

Back when my two children, who now have children of their own, were youngsters, we baked a cake for Christmas and gathered to sing “Happy birthday, Jesus.”

Some will consider such a custom sentimentality. To them, I say “Bah, humbug.”

Not a single Scrooge did I spot among the packed pews at St. Louis Cathedral on Dec. 16 as the Hot Club of New Orleans played gypsy jazz and holiday tunes. The five musicians were among those who entertained locals and tourists during this year’s Christmas New Orleans-style concert series.

Seeing and hearing the Hot Club play mere steps from the majestic altar, under a magnificent mural of the Nativity scene, seemed perfectly natural. Their music filled the basilica of St. Louis King of France with life-affirming harmony.

The hourlong free concert wound down with a wonderful rendition of “The Christmas Song” (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire). As the sentimental lyrics say, “And so I’m offering this simple phrase, to kids from 1 to 92, although it’s been said many times many ways, ‘Merry Christmas’ to you.”

Orchestral outreach

Advocate staff photos by ALEXANDER BARKOFF

The Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestras held its Sinfonia Outreach Concert on Sunday at Congregation Beth Israel Synagogue and Community Center, 4004 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie. The musicians are youngsters from all over the GNO area.

The Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestras presented its Sinfonia Outreach Concert at Congregation Beth Israel Synagogue and Community Center in Metairie.

Now in its 20th season, GNOYO provides young musicians throughout the greater New Orleans area with the opportunity to participate in a full orchestra program.

Oaks celebration continues

It’s not too late to enjoy Celebration in the Oaks this holiday season. You can say hello to Mr. Bingle and visit myriad displays amid thousands of sparkling lights through Jan. 3 at the New Orleans Botanical Garden, Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and Storyland at City Park.

Hours are 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Sunday through Thursday — including Christmas and New Year’s Day — and 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The event will be closed Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve. Here’s hoping that you find many ways to enjoy these last days of 2014.

Thanks to all who contributed to this community news column this year, and I hope that you will “throw me somethin’ ” to add in 2015.

Lynne Jensen writes about New Orleans community events and people. Contact her at jensencolumn@gmail. com.

Benaiah Davis, 9, looks toward the conductor of the Avishai Taylor, left, and Victor Eshleman play their violins at a special concert presented by Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestras during its conGNOYO. cert.

Everyone has something to offer, like a cracked pot Jane Pic There is a Chinese parable a friend told me about several years ago. It is a wonderful story and has great meaning: There was a water bearer in China who had two large pots, each hung on the ends of a pole he carried across his neck.

Each day he would walk a long distance to the stream to fill the pots so that his family could have water for the day.

One of the pots was perfect, but the other had a crack in it. At the end of the long walk from the stream to the house,

the cracked pot arrived only half full, while the other still carried its full amount. For two years this went on daily, with the bearer delivering only 1½ pots full of water to his house.

Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments, perfect for which it was made. But the poor, cracked pot was ashamed of its own imperfection and miserable that it was able to accomplish only half of what it had been made to do.

After two years of what it

Adams ABILITIES

perceived to be a bitter failure, it spoke to the water bearer one day by the stream. “I am ashamed of myself because this crack in my side causes water to leak all the way back to your house.”

The bearer said to the pot, “Did you notice that there were äSee ABILITIES, page 2G

Contest focuses on pollution, solutions in storm water runoff The Jefferson Parish department of environmental affairs is sponsoring its 15th annual poster and essay contest highlighting nonpointsource pollution and solutions.

The contest is open to Jefferson Parish public, private and parochial school students in third through eighth grades.

Contestants will illustrate nonpoint sources of urban storm water pollution and participate in identifying solutions.

Unlike pollution from point sources such as a pipe from an industry, nonpoint-source pollution originates from a variety of sources and enters drains as storm water runoff. These sources are often in neighborhoods where products such as pesticides, cleansers and automotive fluids run off from lawns, streets and parking lots.

The poster contest is open to students in grades three through six, and the essay

Eva Jacob Barkoff AROUND JEFFERSON

contest is open to students in grades seven and eight.

Prizes will be awarded for first through third place and äSee JEFFERSON, page 2G

2G F Thursday, December 25, 2014 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

community Algiers big chief sews, sews, sews to get ready for Mardi Gras Big Chief Tyrone Casby is already preparing the beaded suit he will wear with the Mohawk Hunters Mardi Gras Indians on Feb. 17.

The only tribe on the West Bank, the Mohawk Hunter Mardi Gras Indians have paraded in Algiers since the early 1940s.

They were organized in the Oakdale community.

WEST BANK A suit usually SPOTLIGHT takes six to nine YETORIA months to plan DESHAZIER and complete.

Each Indian designs and creates his own suit with elaborate bead patches depicting meaningful and symbolic scenes.

“It takes me about six months to make my costume.

We parade on Mardi Gras day and St. Joseph night. We are one of the larger tribes,” Casby said. “We have 20 to 25 members.”

While Casby makes his own suit, his wife, Lesa Casby, helps their grandchildren sew and design their suits.

“Oh no, he does his own,” Lesa said.

Casby said he makes a new suit every year so spectators will see something different.

Mardi Gras day is the actual day they come out in their full regalia.

The first big chief of the Mohawk Hunters was Casby’s uncle, Frank Casby Sr., followed by Lexus Parker and Leo Roy. In the early ’60s, a resurgence of the Indian tribe

JEFFERSON Continued from page 1G

honorable mention in each grade level.

Entries should depict or describe at least one source of nonpoint-source pollution with an appropriate solution and must be postmarked by Jan. 16.

Prizes will be presented at an awards ceremony in the spring.

To encourage participation in the contest, the environmental affairs staff is available to

ABILITIES

Continued from page 1G flowers only on your side of the path, but not on the other pot’s side? That’s because I have always known about your flaw, and I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back, you’ve watered them. For two years

ARMED SERVICES METAIRIE LEGALMAN PROMOTED: Legalman 1st Class Ashley D’Aunoy was promoted Nov. 24 and is stationed at Naval Station Newport, Rhode Island. She is from Metairie and enlisted July 25, 2007.

A legalman gets training approved by D’Aunoy the American Bar Association in paralegal studies. The legalman community provides opportunities for advanced training in legal assistance, legal research and writing, shipboard legalman duties and law office management.

RESCUE AT SEA: A helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station New Orleans came to the rescue of an unconscious woman on a cruise ship 23 miles south of Southwest Pass on Dec. 6.

The 48-year-old woman on the cruise ship Carnival Dream suffered from kidneyrelated issues and had a high blood-sugar level. The MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew flew her to Ochsner Baptist Medical Center for medical treatment.

She was listed in stable condition.

steps of his older brother Ralph “Tickleman” Casby, who masked as Wildman.

“I was fascinated by the drums, dancing and tambourines that touch my soul and spirit. It’s an urging, a calling,” Casby said.

The Mohawk Hunters group has evolved into a premier tribe and has performed in Sri Lanka, Guatemala and Honduras.

The tribe also goes into the prisons to show inmates how to sew patches for Mardi Gras Indian outfits. “It gives the men a feeling of pride in their sewing efforts, and attaining proficiency in their craft replaced the violence,” Casby said.

Full of culture, decorations and costumes, the Mohawk Hunters Mardi Gras Indians tribe will parade on Mardi Gras, Feb. 17; on Super Sunday, March 15; and at West Fest, April 26. West Fest is the last major Indian parade of the year open to the public. It was started by Casby in 1984.

Holiday camp for kids Photo by YETORIA L. DESHAZIER

Big Chief Tyrone Casby, of the Mohawk Hunters Mardi Gras Indians was led by Big Chief Sketter Blue, Robert “Robbie” Taylor and Ronald “Buck” Evans. The tradition continued with members Wardell Harrison, Terry Young Sr., Clarence “Killer” Higgins and James “Nut” Wilson.

From 1966 to 1974, Rayfield Parker led the Mohawk Hunt-

ers Indian tribe. He later relinquished the tribe to Frank “Summy Summy” Jones, who was replaced by the current Big Chief Tyrone Casby, who has held the position since 1980.

Since the age of 6, Casby has been a part of the Indian culture, following in the foot-

make classroom presentations on nonpoint-source pollution.

For more information or to schedule a classroom visit, call Sami Khalil, storm water management supervisor for the Jefferson Parish department of environmental affairs, at (504) 731-4612.

For more information on nonpoint-source pollution, its causes and solutions, visit www.epa.gov.

guests at the 2014 Sipping With Santa event this month at Chateau Country Club.

“After all the money was counted, we made our goal of $50,000,” Janice Watsky said.

“In five years, the event has raised and contributed nearly $150,000 to the Kenner Food Bank.”

Free harp concert

Fundraiser update

More than 500 people were

Rhett Bramwell, a composer and arranger of music for both the Celtic and pedal harp, is the guest artist for this year’s

I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate the table. Without you being just the way you are, there would not be this beauty to grace the house.”

The moral to this parable is that each of us has our own unique flaws. We’re all “cracked pots.” But it’s the cracks and flaws we each have that make our lives together so

very interesting and rewarding. We just need to take each person for what they are and look for the good in them.

So it is with people with disabilities. Whether the disability is physical (the result of a stroke, accident or other), emotional or genetically caused (such as Down syndrome, cerebral palsy or other) whether the disability is

Looking for a great holiday deal? Register your child for the holiday camp at the YMCA at Federal City and enjoy a stress-free holiday season. For information, contact Rukeisha Casimier at (504) 821-9622 or rukeishac@ymcaneworleans. org.

Yetoria Lumpkin DeShazier writes about the people and events in Algiers and the West Bank. Contact her at ydeshazier@gmail.com or call (504) 367-0905.

concert of the New Orleans Chapter of the American Harp Society at 2 p.m. Jan. 25 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.

The concert is free and open to the public.

Eva Jacob Barkoff writes about the people and events on the east bank of Jefferson Parish. She can be reached by calling (504) 430-8053 or by email at ejbarkoff@gmail. com.

severe or mild, everyone has something to offer and contribute to others.

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas, happy holidays and the very best New Year.

Jane Pic Adams is the mother of an adult daughter with Down syndrome and writes about disability issues. Email her at jpa.article @gmail.com.

Use discretion in sharing holiday food with pets During the holidays, it is natural to want to slip pets a taste of seasonal treats. All of the delicious aromas will surely have them in the kitchen with their noses to the air.

While it is OK to give them a tasty treat of human food every ANIMAL now and then, RESCUE it is important TRACI to know which HOWERTON foods are approved for pets and which can be harmful.

Pet-friendly people foods include: n Turkey, a great lean protein to share with your pet. Be sure to remove any excess skin or fat, stick with white meat and make sure there are no bones. n Mashed potatoes, plain, please. Be aware of additional ingredients used to make mashed potatoes such as cheese, sour cream, butter, onions and gravies, which are not good for your pet’s system. n Green beans n Carrots, raw or cooked n Sweet potato, cooked, cubed or mashed without butter or seasoning. n Squash n Zucchini n Lettuce n Spinach n Pumpkin, a good source of fiber and vitamin A n Apples, without seeds or core. Apple seeds contain chemical compounds that are poisonous to animals. n Blueberries n Strawberries Food should be cut up into small pieces to prevent choking, and only given in moderation and in small amounts at a time.

If you are unsure about a particular option, check with your vet before feeding your pet people food, as some foods are toxic to pets.

The following are some of the foods you want to avoid, as they can be very harmful to your pet: n Grapes and raisins, which contain chemical compounds that are toxic to dogs n Garlic, onions, leeks and scallions, which all have chemical properties that can be toxic, and even life-threatening, to dogs and cats n Tomatoes n Avocado n Mushrooms, particularly wild mushrooms n Fruits with pits, such as peaches, cherries and plums.

In some cases the pit can be toxic, or can simply present a choking hazard. n Nuts, particularly macadamia nuts, which are toxic to pets n Xylitol. Anything made with this artificial sweetener is a no-no for pets.

Photo provided by ARNO

BB Turtle was found in the parking lot near Best Buy, explaining the ‘BB’ in his name. He has a laid-back, loving demeanor, gets along great with other cats and is a master photobomber. The adoption fee is $100 and includes a neuter, chip, shots and combo test. For information, send email to arnokitty@ yahoo.com. n Chocolate n No alcohol of any kind,

cooked in anything (fruitcake, etc.)

While pets want to join in on the feast, make sure to give them pet-friendly options to avoid spending the holiday at the emergency vet’s office.

Events

WINTER CAMP: The LA/SPCA Animal Celebration Winter Camp for children ages 7-10 will be open Dec. 29 and 30.

The program is designed to teach young people about the LA/SPCA and animal care.

Children will be introduced to services the shelter offers, safety with animals, pet handling and care, grooming skills and responsible pet ownership.

Registration is $65 per day or $110 for both days. There’s a 12-camper maximum. To register, call (504) 368-5191, ext. 207, or email erica@la-spca.org.

KING CAKE BENEFIT: Sales of king cakes from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, at Cottage Catering and Bakery, 1536 River Oaks Road West, Harahan, will benefit Animal Rescue New Orleans, Susan G. Komen New Orleans and the Parkinson’s Action Network. King cakes are $16.95 and will be medium traditional. Caluda’s King Cake Festival also will feature food, games, live music and adoptable ARNO dogs.

LOST OR FOUND PETS: In Orleans Parish, you can send a photo, description of your pet, date lost/found and your contact information to lostandfound@la-spca.org.

In Jefferson Parish, email molsen@jeffparish.net and bbourgeois @jeffparish.net, and in St. Bernard Parish, email cluna@sbpg.net.

Traci D. Howerton is social media editor of Animal Rescue New Orleans, a nonprofit, volunteer-based, nokill shelter. Contact ARNO at animal rescuecolumn@ gmail.com, www.animal rescueneworleans.org or call its recorded information line at (504) 571-1900.

NOTICE TO ALL RESIDENTS OF UNINCORPORATED JEFFERSON PARISH & THE TOWN OF JEAN LAFITTE

NO GARBAGE COLLECTION ON THURSDAY, NEW YEAR’S DAY If you are scheduled to have garbage picked up on

THURSDAY, JANUARY 1ST, your garbage will not be picked up until

MONDAY, JANUARY 5TH (NEXT SCHEDULED COLLECTION DAY)

PLEASE NOTE: THERE WILL BE NO MAKE-UP COLLECTIONS FOR THE MISSED HOLIDAY. ALL CITIZEN DROP-OFF SITES & THE JEFFERSON PARISH LANDFILL WILL BE CLOSED NEW YEAR’S DAY AND WILL RE-OPEN FRIDAY, JANUARY 2ND

Please call 1-877-747-4374 to accommodate requests for efficient removal of large bulky waste and to report missed pick-up.

H The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, December 25, 2014 F 3G

community N.O. library hosts St. Bernard Parish residents put writing workshop family first in Christmas wishes People who think in verse that could become poetry, or imagine characters, dialogue and scenes, will gather for a creative writing workshop from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday at the Robert E. @ THE Smith Library, LIBRARY 6301 Canal CHARLES Blvd., New BROWN Orleans. The workshop meets on the second and fourth Mondays of every month.

Author Carolyn Kolb will discuss her latest book, “New Orleans Memories: One Writer’s City” from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Monday at the Latter Library, 5120 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans. In the book, Kolb takes a detailed look into the heart of New Orleans and introduces readers to her favorite people and places. The book is divided

into sections on food, Mardi Gras, literature and music.

One-on-one assistance with Internet use, general computer skills, Web searching, software use or accessing resources available through the library using electronic devices is available during technology assistance sessions from 10 a.m. to noon every Saturday at the Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center, 4300 S. Broad St., New Orleans.

All New Orleans Public Library locations will be closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. All library locations will close at 3 p.m.

Wednesday, and the Latter Library will be closed all day Sunday.

Charles Brown is the executive director of the New Orleans Public Library.

For more information, visit neworleanspubliclibrary.org.

Metairie library events highlight the Battle of New Orleans bicentennial The Jefferson Parish Library will conduct a series of events in honor of the 200th anniversary of the Battle of New Orleans during the first week of 2015.

The events will occur at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 West Napoleon Ave., Metairie.

JP LIBRARY The three LAGNIAPPE events are free CHRIS of charge and SMITH are open to the public. Registration is not required.

The Battle of New Orleans was a series of engagements fought December 23, 1814, through January 8, 1815, and was the final major battle of the War of 1812. American soldiers commanded by Major General Andrew Jackson prevented an invading British army from seizing New Orleans as a strategic tool to end the war.

ANDREW JACKSON: Morgan Molthrop will discuss his book “Andrew Jackson’s Playbook: 15 Strategies for Success from the Battle of New Orleans to the New NOLA” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6, at the East Bank Regional Library.

The book focuses on Jackson’s strategies in bringing together a diverse group of Creoles, free people of color, pirates, Tennessee militiamen, Choctaw Indians and Kaintucks (about 3,000 in total) to defeat a disciplined army of more than 10,000 British troops. The book’s sidebars include interviews with local civic and business leaders including Michael Hecht from Greater New Orleans Inc.; Mark Romig from the New Orleans Tourism and Marketing Corporation; Tim Williamson from the Idea Village; Ron Bechet, a local artist; and Drew Brees.

FICTIONAL INSIGHTS: Keith Midkiff will discuss his book “New Orleans Besieged” at 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 7, at the East Bank Regional Library.

“New Orleans Besieged” explores history in an unusual manner, imagining that the British won the Battle of New Orleans. The novel is set in January 1815, when the treasure city of New Orleans lies vulnerable and exposed to greedy, bloodthirsty pirates.

Protection comes not by force of arms but from the crafty mind of an old Spanish monk.

PERIOD MUSIC: Carolyn Kolb, an adjunct history professor at Tulane University, will discuss the music of the War of 1812 at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, at the East Bank Regional Library.

Kolb will discuss how the Battle of Fort McHenry inspired Francis Scott Key to write the poem that became the lyrics to “The Star-Spangled Banner.” She will also discuss ballads such

‘Andrew Jackson’s Playbook’ as “Madison’s March” and “Perry’s Victory,” which told the tale of famous battles and stirred the hearts and minds of a young nation. According to Kolb, the War of 1812 spawned a huge variety of songs and instrumental music. From the stirrings of party politics under President John Adams, the traumatic effect of Jefferson’s embargo in 1807, through the defense of Fort McHenry and the last major battle at New Orleans, Americans sang about their thoughts, feelings and unfolding history.

For information about programs at the 15 branches of the Jefferson Parish Library, go to www.jplibrary.net or “like” the library’s Facebook page for daily programming updates.

As families gather today, the traditions of Christmas will come alive through the eyes of children everywhere as they see the gifts Santa has left for them under the Christmas tree. As adults, though, we are so focused on what children would like to receive PARISH for Christmas LINES that we often KIM overlook our GRITTER wants and desires during the holiday season.

Recently, several adult St. Bernardians were asked what they would ask Santa for this year if they could have one wish. Here’s what they had to say; some serious, some tongue-in-cheek: “I wish I could have a day each to spend with the people I have lost.” — Regina Bourgeois Bastoe, Chalmette.

“I wish I could get everything that my students need to succeed in my class.” — Kathie McNulty Acosta, Chalmette.

“I’d ask for the St. Claude Bridge to never go up again.”

— Emilee Pilet Mercadel, Chalmette.

“I wish Santa could turn back the clock 25 years so the boys would still be young and my husband, Larry, would still be with us and healthy.” — Linda Guidry Moran, Chalmette.

“For Common Core to be gone.” — Rachel Padilla, Chalmette.

“For my daughter and new granddaughter, who live in Memphis, Tennessee, to be with me for Christmas.” — Danae Minter Quillin, Chalmette.

“Although I now live in Picayune, what I want for Christmas is for my mom (Cynthia Rainey), who does live in Chalmette, to win her battle with Stage 4 bone cancer.” — Angelle Roberts Rodriguez.

“For LSU to get a quarterback and for Les Miles to get a clue.” — Alvin Jones, Meraux.

“I’d ask Santa to bring us back to 2005, early August, before Hurricane Katrina, for just one more day of our beautiful St. Bernard as we knew it.” — Judy Giglio, Arabi.

“To turn back the clock to the day my daughter blessed us with our first grandchild. A feeling like no other that just keeps getting better and better with each day.” — Susie Showalter, Meraux.

“For One Direction to never return to New Orleans.” — Richelle Fisher, Chalmette.

“I’d ask Santa to cure all cancers, especially for children.”

— Tammy Christen Gettys, Arabi.

“My wish for Christmas is to

Photo provided by STEVE CANNIZARO/St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office

St. Bernard Parish Sheriff James Pohlmann cuts the ribbon on a new substation at 6501 St. Claude Ave. at the parish line in Arabi as numerous employees, including Chief Deputy Richard Baumy, and officials from companies involved in the construction take part. have God continue to bless my family and keep my children and beloved grandchildren safe and healthy.” — Liz Genovese Lemoine, Chalmette.

Battle of New Orleans volunteers needed

Organizers of the bicentennial of the Battle of New Orleans, set for Jan. 7-10 at Chalmette Battlefield, 8606 W. St. Bernard Highway in Chalmette, are looking for volunteers for the event.

Positions include information desk and visitor center sales assistants, bus stop and boat dock greeters, cleanup crew members and demonstrator assistants.

For information, contact Aleutia Scott at (504) 689-3690, ext.

10, or aleutia_scott@nps.gov.

Avenue in Old Arabi near the parish line. Meanwhile, substations are being built on Judge Perez Drive in Arabi and on Paris Road in Chalmette, with all three paid for with FEMA funds.

“I am proud to stand in front of this magnificent building that will serve this community for years,’’ Sheriff James Pohlmann told a crowd at a Dec. 10 ribbon-cutting, which included Sheriff’s Office employees, representatives of FEMA and the contracting, engineering and architecture firms that did the job.

The new substation, which is 8,193 square feet, is at 6501 St. Claude Ave. next to the Jackson Barracks National Guard base. It will house the sheriff’s criminal investigation, juvenile

Holiday free ride home program

The St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office’s free Holiday Ride Home runs through Jan. 2.

The program allows residents who have too much to drink during the holiday season the opportunity to call the Sheriff’s Office at (504) 271-2501 to receive a free ride home from a deputy, no questions asked.

A sheriff’s deputy will pick you up and take you to your home in St. Bernard or, if you live out of the parish, you can be taken to a sheriff’s substation where you can make arrangements to be picked up.

Sheriff’s Office opens new substation

The St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office recently opened its new substation on St. Claude

investigation and crime-scene investigation offices, including facilities to process evidence, the sex offender registry and investigation of domestic violence cases.

The St. Claude substation cost $2,187,030.

Work also has started on a 5,000-square-foot station at 7001 W. Judge Perez Drive at Aycock Street in Arabi. Another 5,000-square-foot building will be built at 4700 Paris Road with land donated by the Meraux Foundation. Work is slated to be completed on these two substations in 2015.

Kim Gritter writes about people, places and events in St. Bernard Parish. She can be reached at parishlines@ gmail.com.

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CITY OF GRETNA GARBAGE COLLECTION NEW YEAR’S HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

Progressive Waste Solutions wishes all of our Gretna customers a happy & safe New Year.

Please call

1-877-747-4374

to accommodate requests for efficient removal of large bulky waste and to report missed pick-up.

NO GARBAGE OR RECYCLING COLLECTION ON THURSDAY, NEW YEAR’S DAY

Friday’s service will stay as is. If your sevice day is Thursday, please put your can out that night, and it will be picked up within 48 hours.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-877-747-4374

4G F Thursday, December 25, 2014 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

community Crowning glory

Advocate staff photos by SHERRI MILLER

Walter McDonall and his granddaughter Emily McDonall, 8; Jordan Richard, 6, and Bria Henry, 8, wave to Santa and collect candy during the Marrero Estelle Volunteer Fire Co. Christmas parade in Marrero on Saturday.

Santa rolls with fire company The Marrero Estelle Volunteer Fire Co. held its annual Christmas parade carrying Santa Claus on Dec. 13. The truck traveled from the firehouse through neighborhoods to the Harvey canal and down to the V Levee.

Ursuline Academy students of all ages were given the rare opportunity to view two sets of historic crowns side-by-side on Nov. 10, the anniversary of when, in 1895, the statue of our Lady of Prompt Succor was crowned for the first time. People rich and poor in New Orleans and the surrounding areas donated their jewelry to the Ursulines and the original set of crowns was made. A second set was created later for everyday wear. Ursuline Archivist and Museum Curator Mary Lee Harris and Sister Rosemary Meiman, OSU, discussed the history behind both sets of crowns with the students. From left, Prioress Mary Anne Holmes, OSU; Sister Regina Marie Fronmuller, OSU; Ursuline Academy President Karen McNay, Ursuline Archivist and Museum Curator Mary Lee Harris; Sister Rosemary Meiman, OSU; and Sister Karen Schwane, OSU, view the historical crowns on the 119th anniversary of the statue’s coronation.

Santa waves to neighborhood children from atop a firetruck during the parade.

Louisiana group honors contributions to green building movement Advocate staff report The U.S. Green Building Council Louisiana Chapter has recognized several local companies and individuals for their contribution to the green building movement. At the organization’s annual meeting Nov. 20, Green Coast Enterprises and Roy O. Martin received awards, as well as the University of Louisiana at Lafayette School of Design and Erin Ryerson, the chairwoman of the Greenbuild Host Committee.

Ryerson, an associate at VergesRome Architects, received the Community Champion Award in recognition of her leadership of the group of local professionals who were in charge of soliciting local partners, developing tours, coordinating a legacy project, “greening” the city, engaging the community and recruiting volunteers for the Greenbuild International Conference and Expo, which took place Oct. 2224.

Ryerson also coordinated approximately $150,000 worth of donations of green building products to Benjamin Franklin High School, making it the Green Schools Showcase during the Greenbuild conference.

The products included soundbuffering ceiling tiles, selftinting windows, Idea Paint to turn walls into white board, and various improvements to two bathrooms that make them water-conserving and energyefficient.

The School of Architecture and Design at UL-Lafayette won the Champion Team Award in recognition of Geoff Gjertson’s work with a team of students to design and build a modular house, the Beausoleil Home, that was transported to Washington, D.C., to compete in the Solar Decathalon.

The Innovation Champion Award went to the Roy O. Martin—Martco Lumber Company.

The company’s management of its 582,000 acres of forest, where 12 million seedlings were planted in 2014, has been certified by the Forestry Stewardship Council. In addition to sustainably harvesting its forests, the company has worked to make its manufacturing plants energy-efficient and has donated $14 million to Louisiana service organizations.

The Operational Excellence Champion Award went to Green Coast Enterprises of New Orleans, in recognition of its work with New Orleans’

Photo provided by Ursuline Academy

Photo provided by USGBC

Will Bradshaw, left, president of Green Coast Enterprises, accepts an award from Z Smith, of the U.S. Green Building Council Louisiana Chapter. schools, particularly in improving indoor air quality and edu-

cation for occupants of green buildings.

FAITH NOTES SEELOS HEALING MASS: A Seelos Birthday Healing Mass with Sacrament of the Anointing will be held at 1 p.m. Jan. 11 at the National Seelos Shrine at St. Mary’s Assumption Church, 919 Josphine St. Celebrant will be the Rev. Philip Dabney, a Redemptorist priest from the Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Boston.

Confessions will be heard before Mass, and there will be veneration of the relic missionary crucifix and oneon-one intercessory prayer beginning at 11:45 a.m. in the back of the church and in the shrine.

The newly renovated Seelos Welcome Center will be open before and after the Mass. Regular center hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For tours or information, call (504) 5252495.

ALL SAINTS TURNS 95: All Saints Catholic Church recently celebrated its 95th anniversary with a Mass of thanksgiving celebrated by Archbishop Alfred Hughes, concelebrated with the Rev. William Norvel, superior general of the Josephites.

A banquet also was held, and the Mass featured music by the All Saints Mass Choir.

Photos provided by RONALD C. SMITH

Deacon Larry Calvin, Fr. Howard Byrd, Archbishop Alfred Hughes, Fr. Peter Weiss, Fr. Stanley Ihuoma, and Superior General William Norvel celebrate the 95th anniversary Mass of All Saints Catholic Church in New Orleans.

Superior General of the Josephites, the Rev. William Norvel

The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, December 25, 2014 F 5G

community Marrero-Harvey Senior Center honors its veterans

Photos provided by Marrero-Harvey Senior Center

Members of the Marrero-Harvey Senior Center who served in the armed forces were honored on Veterans Day. In the front row, from left, are Lester Orgeron, Army; Lloyd Klibert, seated, Army; Matthew Miles, Army; Frank Carvallo, Navy; Joseph Laporte, Marines; and Victor Funck, Army Reserves. In the back row are Donald Seals, Air Force; Craig Hall, of the Jefferson Council on Aging; Mike Woolsey, Army; Francis Comella, Army and Air Force; Maria Cervini, of the Jefferson Parish Office of Senior Citizens Services; Patrick Landry, Army; Rogers Norton, Louisiana National Guard; and Edward Rahn, Air Force. Other veterans honored were Leo Hebert, Marines; Hillary Kline, Air Force; Stanley Crosby, Army; Charles Lataxes, Air Force; and Clarence Toca, Navy. The Marrero-Harvey Senior Center is at 4420 Seventh St. in Marrero.

Members with birthdays in November celebrated recently with others at the Marrero-Harvey Senior Center. In the front row, from left, are Helen Parks and Matthew Miles. Behind them are Elisa Morvant, William Richardson, Wayne Pertuit, Thomas Verret, Evelyn Condo, Juanita Hampton and Vivian Chauvin.

Gris Gris Strut marching group launches junior corps

Photos provided by PETER P. BRIANT

Katie Theriot, Maureen Bradshaw, Sandy Villarrubia and Kathy Breaux were among the friends, family and collectors who gathered for the Peter Briant retrospective.

P.J. Henderson and Garet Patterson were among those who gathered at the New Orleans Athletic Club to show their appreciation for the watercolors of Peter Briant.

Betsy Blouin and Betsie Gambel were among those on hand for ‘The Last Hoorah,’ a retrospective of watercolor artist Peter Briant’s 40year career.

Watercolorist’s retrospective draws admirers to New Orleans Athletic Club Advocate staff report Local watercolorist Peter Briant celebrated “The Last Hoorah” a 40-year retrospective, at the New Orleans Athletic Club on Dec. 5. Friends, family and collectors alike feted Briant throughout the evening, admiring his life’s work. After studying architecture at Tulane University, Briant received a degree in fine arts from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Combining his two passions, Peter has spent his life capturing architecture and landscapes in his watercolor paintings.

Photo provided by Gris Gris Strut

The Gris Gris Strut marching group is beginning a junior corps for musicians and dancers ages 12-17. Seven weeks of intensive training begins this month, with scholarships available to provide low-income students with tuition and uniforms. All those who complete the training will have an opportunity to march in at least one Carnival parade. These adult Gris Gris Strut dancers were photographed during a Mardi Gras practice march in the Irish Channel this year.

From left are Annie Gaia, Katherine Griffin, group director Cherie Pitre, Peryn St. Raymond and Dana Reed. For information, send email to Pitre at grisgrisstrut@yahoo.com.

Metairie Rotary Club honors Jefferson Parish deputies of the year Jefferson Parish sheriff’s deputies Daniel Lincoln and Kristian Fricke have been recognized as deputies of the year by the Metairie Rotary Club. From left are Capt.

Michael Kinler, Sheriff Newell Norman, Lincoln, Fricke, Capt. Joshua Wingrove and Lt. Frank Gutusso.

Come shop with us on our sale dates to get your 2015 Loyalty Card (20% off one regular price item in each month of 2015)

Shop every month and get your card punched for a chance to win a $250 gift basket Sale Dates: Friday, December 26th through Saturday, January 3rd Hours: Tuesday through Friday from 10 am – 5pm & Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm Extended Hours: Friday, December 26th from 7 am – 5 pm Closed New Year’s Day

Photo provided by Metairie Rotary Club

New Orleans Loving Festival founder gets grant to support promotion of tolerance The founder of the New Orleans Loving Festival, Jerald White, has been awarded a $5,000 grant by USA Network and Cox Communications as part of their Characters Unite promotion. The Loving Festival is a multiculural community celebration and film festival that promotes equality through outreach and education. From left are Steve Sawyer, of Cox; White; and Kristina Lagasse and Millie Baudier, of Cox. Photo provided by USA Network/LEE CELANO

Come Early for the Best Selection (December 26th) – Come late for the Best DEALS! Choose from over 500 Bolts!

From 7 am to 9 am - $8 per yard From 9 am to 11 am - $7 per yard From 11 am – 1 pm - $6 per yard From 1 pm – 3 pm - $5 per yard From 3 pm – 5 pm – buy the rest of the bolt for $3 per yard!!

Specials from Friday, December 26th through Saturday, January 3rd All Pre-cut Fat Quarters and ¼ yards – Buy 4 get 1 Free All Regular Price Fat Quarter Bundles, ¼ Yard Bundles, Jelly Rolls, Layer Cakes, Charm Squares, Strips, and Applique Squares 30% Off All Regular Price Books – 40% Off Skinny Bolts – Buy the rest of the bolt and get 20% off regular price (bolts contain approx. 1 – 3 yards)

6G F Thursday, December 25, 2014 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

community Golfers join Rally for the Cure golf tournament

Plaquemines Parish president honored

by Sons of the American Revolution

Advocate staff report The Rally For The Cure fundraiser for Susan G. Komen, New Orleans, sponsored by the Grand Ridge Ladies Golf Association, Luling, recently presented a Photos provided by Grand Ridge Golf Club donation of more than $4,000 Rosemary Robinson, Yvonne King, Maxine Covert and Bo Tusa at the Rally for a Cure Bill Watson, Burt Garland, Mark Williams and to the Susan G. Komen foundation.

Joe Rhoades

Ochsner Golden Opportunity participants celebrate December birthdays

Photo provided by Plaquemines Parish government

Norman Umholtz, left, presents Plaquemines Parish President Billy Nungesser with a Silver Good Citizenship Medal from the George Washington Chapter of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. This award is the highest honor bestowed by the organization and was given in recognition of Nungesser’s tireless work and commitment to rebuilding Plaquemines Parish following major events such as Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Isaac and the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

Algiers Kiwanians hear from New Orleans City Council member

Photo provided by Ochsner Golden Opportunity Westbank

Participants with birthdays in December celebrated recently with others in Ochsner Golden Opportunity Westbank at the New Orleans Ladies Ballroom in Terrytown. In the front row, from left, are Benny Owens, Diane Landry and Jo Ann Banks. In the back row are Juanita Thomas, Yvonne B. Van Court, Linda Aubert, Cynthia Matherne, Barbara Murphy and Tony Genovese.

Lafreniere Park patrons gather to admire holiday lights

Photo provided by Kiwanis Club of Algiers

New Orleans City Council member Jason Williams, left, was the guest speaker at a recent meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Algiers. He is seen with club President Dave Lichtenstein.

HEALTH BRIEFS PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP: Christian Rabitto, of Home Instead, will be the guest speaker when the Big Easy Fleur de Lis Parkinson’s Support Group meets from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 19 in the Esplanade I room of the Conference Center at East Jefferson Hospital, 4300 Houma Blvd., Metairie.

Also, Susan Sapir-Fields and Michelle Lane are forming a night group for people with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers, family and friends. This group will meet at 7 p.m. Jan. 13, at the Jewish Community Center, 3747 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie. For information, call Sapir-Fields at (504) 432-0006.

EPILEPSY: Epilepsy Support Group offers short term counseling assistance in coping with the initial diagnosis of a seizure disorder, temporary and chronic difficulties and stress management. This group helps promote individual healthy functioning for people with epilepsy. For more information about dates and times, contact Kelly April at (800) 960-0587 or visit www.epilepsylouisiana. org.

SARCOIDOSIS: The Sarcoidosis Support Group is designed for individuals living with sarcoidosis, a chronic condition that often involves the lungs and causes difficulty breathing.

For information about meeting dates and times, call (504) 4544882 or (504) 780-0139.

SPINAL CORD INJURY: A Spinal Cord Injury Support Group meets at the Touro Infirmary’s Neuro Rehabilitation Center on the second Saturday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., in the Coliseum Room, second floor. Call Jim Ghere at (504) 897-8419 or email James.

Ghere@tourocom.

NEUROLOGY SUPPORT GROUP: The

Neuro Rehabilitation Center of Touro Infirmary, offers a brain injury, CVA and stroke support group which meets the first Tuesday of each month at 3:30 p.m., in the M6 Conference Room. Contact Vera DeLuca at (504) 8978476 or email vera.Deluca@ touro.com.

Photos provided by Patrons of Lafreniere Park

The benefit gala for the Patrons of Lafreniere Park featured a preview of the park’s holiday lights. At the sign-in desk are, from left, patrons Bob Coleen Landry and garden club members deco- Eberman, Jane Miller, Karen Villavaso and Dawn Conran. The lights will be rated the Christmas tree for the benefit gala for illuminated from dusk until 9:45 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from the Patrons of Lafreniere Park. Patron Jackie El- dusk until 11:45 p.m. Friday and Saturday through Jan. 2. Admission is $3 liott is at left, with patron Carel Epling. per vehicle at the West Napoleon Avenue entrance.

The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, December 25, 2014 F 7G

schools Students play Santa to groups in need

Photos provided by VOL Eighth-grade Student Council members, from left, Bryan Pictured from left are sixth-grade Student Council members Tran and Austin O’Brien help load the Children’s Hospital Kimmy Tran, Emma Bordelon and Olivia Marque with Eugene truck with toys. In the background is Jacob Frost, a volunteer Thibodaux, who works for Ronald McDonald House Charities. for Children’s Hospital.

Visitation of Our Lady collects toys for sick kids Advocate staff report

toys for Children’s Hospital their donations to these two and the Ronald McDonald worthy causes.

Students at Visitation of Our House. Each Christmas, VOL Children’s Hospital volunLady School recently collected families are generous with teer Michael Naccari said the

toys are distributed at Christmas as well as throughout the year to cheer sick children in the hospital.

Living Nativity held at St. Mary’s Dominican High

A visit from St. Nicholas

Photo provided by Archbishop Rummel High School

Archbishop Rummel High School’s Operation HeadStart started a tradition of reaching out to several groups in need this week with the help of their Santa suits and elf suits. The group will have seven different events including the Angels’ Place Christmas party ending with a visit on Christmas Eve to Magnolia Community Services. They will reach out to senior citizens, at-risk youth at HeadStart centers, special needs youth and adults, and children with life-threatening illnesses along with their families (Angels’ Place). Students playing Santa are shown, from left, Dylan Mire, George McLaughlin, Israel Tucker, Chris Boudreaux and Quinn Dantagnan.

Kenner kindergartners welcome the season with ‘Gingerbread and Jammies’

Photo provided by Our Lady of Perpetual Help School

Kindergartners at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School in Kenner enjoyed a ‘Gingerbread and Jammies’ celebration with their class elf, Ophie. From left are Keira Marchese, Claire Buie, Kale Kramer and Marley Watson.

Photo provided by St. Mary’s Dominican High School

Photo provided by St. Mary Magadalen School

St. Mary Magadalen Parents Club assisted St. Nicholas who passed out goodies to the students on St. Nicholas Day.

St. Mary’s Dominican High School students presented the Living Nativity on Dec. 13 at the school’s annual Breakfast With Baby Jesus. Kayla Goudeau, of Marrero, as Mary, holds Baby Jesus, the infant Julia Dean, of New Orleans. Mia Bordlee, of Metairie, portrays the angel watching over them.

Julia Dean is the daughter of Gina, a Dominican alum, and Jesse Dean.

Ursuline Academy students fill shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child

Men’s Club hosts ‘Breakfast With Santa’ St. Ann Men’s Club recently held its annual ‘Breakfast With Santa’ in the school cafeteria. There were plenty of arts and crafts for the kids and even a visit from Santa himself. Shown are, front from left, Clarence Wille, Mark Carver, Santa (Michael Breaux), Billy RivĂŠ and the Rev. Travis Clark; and back, Wally Cortes, Jeff Hoerner, Ed Elam, Dave McCloskey, David Wilson, William Rieffel, Jared Lazo, Tom Gleason and Lance Hubble.

Cafeteria Christmas art

Photo provided by Ursuline Academy

Photo provided by St. Ann School

Elementary students at Ursuline Academy recently participated in Operation Christmas Child, which sends gift-filled shoeboxes to less-fortunate children in more than 150 countries. Students from preschool through seventh grade donated more than 300 boxes containing toys, school supplies, hygiene items, accessories and personal notes. Loading up the boxes, from left, are sixth-grade Student Council members Riley Talbot, Isabella Jeanne, Sydney Cuneo, Paige Delise, Elizabeth Hardouin, Kate Humphreys and Emily Nguyen.

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Aleigha Martin paints a piece of a Nativity scene as the seventh-grade art class at St. Joan of Arc Catholic School brought the joy of the Christmas season to the school by painting Christmas scenes on the windows of the cafeteria.

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8G F Thursday, December 25, 2014 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

schools ‘Crazy’ business idea wins recognition for N.O. students

Ursuline Academy students show appreciation to N.O. police

Advocate staff report An idea for a job app targeting high school students was a winner for the Business Group from the International High School of New Orleans, which is a semifinalist in the “Trust Your Crazy Ideas” challenge.

The students will now develop a business plan for their New Orleans Job App idea, market it and launch it using a business model they will develop with help from top local businesses and CEOs. Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans will donate computer tablets to the students for their participation in the business plan competition, which was launched by Brittany and Drew Brees and the Idea Village.

The five regional semifinalist

Photo provided by Ursuline Academy Photo provided by International High School of New Orleans

From left are Hassan Simmons, Claudia Allain, Drew Brees, Michael Kuckyr and Rikia Stewart. schools will compete for $10,000 in school grants at the finals in in scholarship money and $5,000 March.

The men and women of the New Orleans Police Department’s 5th District received an assortment of sweet treats Dec. 4 from Ursuline Academy students of all ages. In the front row, from left, are sophomore Elena Nusloch, sophomore Katie Pham, sophomore Rachel Martin and seventh-grader Emma Hery. In the back row are NOPD Commander Christopher Goodly, sophomore Jade Alexander, sophomore Ingebord Hyde, seventh-grader Sarah Dyer, seventh-grader Allison Chevis and NOPD Officer Dwight Alcorn.

Students participate in math tournament

Westbank Quarterback Club highlights athletic achievements

Kenner school recognizes two for 25 years of service

Matt Keller, of Archbishop Shaw High School, was recently honored by the Westbank Quarterback Club. In the front row, from left, are Don Wattigny, Matt Keller and his father, Eric Keller.

Behind them are Lawrence Sinatra and Wayne Ory.

Photo provided by St. Catherine of Sienna School

St. Catherine sixth-graders participate at the Mu Alpha Theta Club Middle School Math Tournament at Brother Martin High School on Dec. 12. From left are Emily Dominique, Audrey Wild, Reagan Krupp, Ashley Heller, Madison Ferguson, Katie Glas and Emily Hemelt.

Photo provided by Our Lady of Perpetual Help School

Our Lady of Perpetual Help School in Kenner has recognized Sister Elizabeth Hebert, SLW, left, and Debbie Naquin for 25 years of service to the school.

Area students graduate from Southern Miss.

Advocate staff report

Photos provided by Westbank Quarterback Club

Members of the board of directors and officers of the Westbank Quarterback Club gathered for the group’s awards banquet. In the front row, from left, are John Morehiser, board member; J. Berengher Brechtel, recording secretary; Don Wattigny, vice president; Wayne John Ory, president; and Richie Smith, treasurer. In the second row are board members Arthur Grundmeyer, David Mouton, Lawrence Sinatra and John Bertucci. Other board members are Tommy and Elaine Bond and Pat Hand. Melissa Buchanan is the group’s corresponding secretary.

SCHOOL BRIEFS MILLENNIAL PARENTS: Sister Carol Cimino will present a talk on “Millennial Parents: Meeting and Managing a New World of Needs” at 7 p.m. Jan. 6 in the gym at Archbishop Rummel High School, 1901 Severn Ave., in Metairie. Cimino is superintendent of Catholic schools for the Diocese of Buffalo, New York, and a three-day champion on “Jeopardy.” Her presentation will be free and open to the public. The school phone number is (504) 834-5592.

MIDYEAR-SCHOOL SWITCHING: Louisiana Connections Academy is an option for families with children who would not benefit from finishing out the school year at their current school.

Louisiana Connections Academy is a free, public virtual school with 1,800 students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

“Changing to a virtual charter school is not just a change of venue, but a change of mindset,” said Glenda Jones, Louisiana Connections Academy principal.

The top reasons for switching schools midyear are when a student is learning at a different rate and would benefit from personalized pacing, when traditional classrooms fail to address the student’s needs to stay focused or recover selfesteem or when a student’s athletic, performance or health routines demand flexibility.

For information, visit www.LouisianaConnections

Academy.com.

4-H CHALLENGE CAMP: Six Jefferson Parish 4-H members participated in the 4-H Challenge Camp at Tickfaw State Park in Springfield recently.

4-H members from 16 parishes enjoyed the outdoors while learning about the environment and healthful living. They also participated in challenge and teambuilding activities. 4-H Challenge Camp is held each November and is open to 4-H members in seventh and eighth grades.

The 4-H members participating were Katie Maise, from Junior Leader Club; Hope Hebert, Bailey Ledet, from Concordia Lutheran School; and Bobby Diaz, Blake Bonnette and Julian Simmons, from Patrick Taylor Academy.

LSU Ag Center 4-H agents Julie Boyd and Chantel Williams accompanied the group.

SCIENCE AND MATH GRANTS: The Gordon Cain STEM Center at LSU has awarded grants to 19 teachers from the Jefferson Parish Public School System through the Quality Science & Mathematics Grant Program.

Statewide, the center awarded about $162,000 in grants for the 2014-15 school year.

Teachers receiving the grants were: Lintz Adams, Green Park; LeeAnn Albrecht and David Samsel, Helen Cox; Donald Bloomenstiel and Aaron Cosman, Ehret; Kelly Carter and Jackie May, Hearst; Mary Crane, Michelle Leonard, Lisa Rednour and Amanda Stevens,

Photo provided by St. Charles Catholic High School

Art students in Robyn Denny’s classes at St. Charles Catholic High School in LaPlace recently participated in a surreal-collage unit, based on the work of Salvador Dali and other surrealist artists who combined images in unexpected ways. The SCC students used magazine images to create a collage of a figure made of mismatched parts.

Here, Sara Louque coats her surreal collage with glue before proceeding to the next stage of the creative process.

Riverdale Middle; Allison Drake, Birney; Maggie Grindstaff and Lisa Valence, Taylor; Melissa Hassinger, Pittman; Kristina Kramer and Patricia Sumera, Thomas Jefferson; Paul LeBlanc, Higgins; and Jasmine Melancon, Terrytown.

These local students were among those who received degrees during fall commencement exercises at the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg on Dec. 12: KENNER: Kevin Michael Bohte, bachelor of science; Lindsay E. Hernandez, bachelor of science; Olivia Nicolette

Normand, bachelor of science; Abigail Melanie Lambert, doctor of philosophy.

MARRERO: Molly Troy Maegan Mayo, bachelor of science.

METAIRIE: Jordan Christopher Greene, bachelor of arts; Lane Alexander Buonagura, bachelor of science; Hunter Edward Dawson, bachelor of science; Jessica Lynn Moran, bachelor of science in nursing; Natasha

Lisa Laurent, master of arts.

NEW ORLEANS: Hauser George Reboul III, bachelor of arts; Urell Johnson, bachelor of interdisciplinary studies; Grace Jeanette DiGeorge, bachelor of science; Lauren Ashley Huner, bachelor of science; Victoria Jane TomassettiLong, doctor of philosophy; Adam Blake Muhsin, bachelor of science.

Church in New Orleans.

LOYOLA LAW: William P. Quigley, a professor at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, is the 2015 recipient of the Father Robert Drinan Award. The annual award is presented to only one Quigley law professor a year by the American Association of Law Schools’ section on pro bono and public service opportunities and recognizes educators working toward increasing access to justice.

Quigley, who also is director of both the Stuart H. Smith Law Clinic and Center for Social Justice and the Gillis Long Poverty Law Center at Loyola, received the award for his extraordinary public interest work in the community. The award will be presented at the annual meeting of the AALS in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 4.

Quigley’s history of pro bono service on a vast array of social justice projects, his mentorship and tutelage of law students and his record of advocacy to people marginalized

by Hurricane Katrina were all taken into consideration by the awards committee.

Within the Gillis Long Poverty Law Center, Quigley promotes legal research and education about the challenges facing disadvantaged individuals and assists them by providing legal services to those unable to afford representation.

UNO TEACHING AWARDS: The University of New Orleans International Alumni Association awarded its 2013-14 Ex-

cellence in Teaching Awards to Harsha Chacko, a professor of hotel, restaurant and tourism administration; and Leslie White, an associate professor of English.

B o t h Chacko and White have Chacko taught at the University of New Orleans for 31 years, and each will receive a cash award of $2,000.

Chacko, a White faculty member in the Lester E. Kabacoff School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Administration, specializes in hospitality and tourism marketing and management. He has been involved in several New Orleans-area tourism research projects, including studies for the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau, French Quarter Festival Inc., the Louisiana Office of Tourism and the New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation.

White teaches freshmen-, undergraduate- and graduatelevel English courses. His area of specialization is Victorian literature. He has published scholarly articles on authors Bobbie Ann Mason, Robert Browning, Oscar Wilde and E.M. Forster. The nomination committee received recommendations for White that noted his exceptional enthusiasm, knowledge and preparation, responsiveness to students and fairness in grading.

COLLEGE NOTES DILLARD CHAPLAIN: Dillard University has appointed the Rev. Earnest Salsberry as university chaplain and director of VisionQuest.

Salsberry has served as interim Salsberry chaplain and director of VisionQuest for several months and will begin his new role in January.

“We are so excited to have Rev. Salsberry as our chaplain,” said Dr. Toya BarnesTeamer, vice president for student success. “In the short time he served as interim chaplain/director of VisionQuest, he has been able to mobilize not only the campus community but has invited several religious leaders of other denominations to campus to serve our students,” she added. “He has brought a level of spirituality to the campus that engages all stakeholders, especially our students, in an unprecedented manner. The students love him, which is the most important thing to me.”

A native of Port Arthur, Texas, Salsberry received a master’s degree in divinity, with a concentration in psychology of religion and pastoral care with an emphasis in homiletics, from Morehouse School of Religion in Atlanta. He also has completed postgraduate studies in clinical pastoral education. He received a bachelor’s degree in vocal performance and music from Dillard in 2006. Salsberry is a licensed and ordained minister and works in the music ministry at Franklin Avenue Baptist