The East Jefferson Advocate 09-17-2025

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Fit and trimmed

Sign of his time

As he turns 100, a Metairie street is renamed for a WWII veteran

Turning 100 is a milestone for anyone, but Lincoln Brennan Sr had an especially big centennial celebration. It began by having a street named after him, a section of the one in Metairie that he has called home for 66 years.

“When I came out of the Navy, I went back to business. I also worked on the Huey P. Long Bridge, painting as parttime work.”

LINCOLN BRENNAN SR., 100-year-old Metairie resident

“It was unexpected,” Brennan said about the rechristening of a strip of Mandarin Street as Lincoln Brennan Way. “But exciting.”

Brennan is a lifelong resident of Jefferson Parish and parishioner of St. Francis Xavier Church.

On Aug. 22, Parish Council members Hans Liljeberg and Jennifer Van Vrancken and other Jefferson officials gathered to honor Brennan with the renaming.

The dedication was one of many tributes that have come Brennan’s way for his legacy

of service in World War II and the Korean War, and as a Jefferson Parish business owner and longstanding member in veterans’ organizations such as the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign War. Liljeberg said honorary street renaming, though rare, is typically reserved for people who have dedicated their lives to Jefferson Parish and demonstrated extraordinary service or notable accomplishments at the local, national or even global level.

“When I think of all his contributions, he is amazing,” said Van Vrancken. “People love and respect him.”

Born Aug. 26, 1925, Brennan joined the Navy at 18 years old, serving in the Asian-Pacific region during World War II and earning multiple medals for his courage and commit-

I’ve been grooming my dogs myself for more than three years now, and while I’ve gotten comfortable with the bathing and haircuts, I still leave nail trimming to the professionals. For many pet parents, trimming nails is one of the most intimidating parts of grooming, and with good reason Done incorrectly it can be painful for pets and stressful for owners. Keeping nails trimmed and clean is an essential part of your pet’s overall health Overgrown nails can cause discomfort, affect how a pet walks, and even lead to joint or posture issues over time Both cats and dogs need their nails trimmed on a regular basis.

How often should they be trimmed?

CATS: Trimming every few weeks helps protect family members, other pets and furniture. It’s a humane alternative to declawing, which is a painful surgical procedure linked to behavioral and long-term health problems

DOGS: Most dogs need nail trims every four to eight weeks. The frequency depends on activity level and lifestyle. Dogs that walk often on pavement may naturally wear their

Whether DIY or left to a pro, keeping pet’s nails trimmed is important to health ä See PET, page 2G

Do it yourself, or take your pet to a

or

PROVIDED PHOTOS BY JUDY HARRISON
Lincoln Brennan Sr, front, with his veteran friends Don Baye, left, Jim Copeland, and Rene Juneau.
BY GRANT
Shaw coach Hank Tierney stands with his Eagles.
STAFF PHOTOS BY JOHN MCCUSKER

Continued from page 1G

ment.

In 1946, Brennan returned home and founded Metairie Sheet Metal Co.

“When I came out of the Navy, I went back to business. I also worked on the Huey P. Long Bridge, painting as part-time work,” said Brennan.

However, at the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950, Brennan sold his business and returned to active duty

“I went back to Korea,” recalled Brennan. “I was there for seven months. I was never seasick or airsick. Over at sea, I had good eyes. There would be 60 or 70 guys on the top deck, and I could spot boats far away That’s how good my eyes were.”

After completing his second term of military service, Brennan came back to Metairie and established Brennan Roofing, a business he led until his retirement at the age of 86.

Hard work and family

He credits his youthful spirit and energy at 100 years old to always doing the work himself and being in good physical shape.

“I worked till I was 89 years old,” said Brennan. “I would get on the roofs and do all the work myself. I didn’t realize how old I was. I just kept going.”

After Korea, Brennan built a life rooted in family and hard work. He married Virgie Dufrene and raised four children — one son and three daughters.

He also became a member of the American Legion Post 350 and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and is currently the only living charter member of VFW Post 6640. He was presented a framed copy of the 1953 Charter for VFW Post No 6640 at the street-renaming event.

“I am the sixth name and the only living man left on the charter,” said Brennan “I stayed with it. You get a star for every five years of membership. I am loaded down with stars. They put nothing on your hat unless you earned it.”

PET OF THE WEEK

Patrick Kennedy, the former commander of VFW Post 6640 and an old friend, agreed. “Brennan is a legend,” Kennedy said. “He is the last remaining charter

PET

Continued from page 1G

nails down, while indoor or less active dogs may need more frequent trims. Why is nail trimming sometimes a challenge? Like a toddler who refuses to sit still, pets often squirm when it’s time for a nail trim. That can make the process stressful and risky Long-haired dogs that visit the groomer regularly often get trims as part of their package, but pet owners of cats or short-haired dogs may need to tackle it at home or schedule a quick appointment with a vet or groomer At-home trimming tips

If you decide to give it a try, these tips can make the process smoother and safer for everyone:

TOUCH THEIR PAWS: Start by gently holding your pet’s paws during calm moments. Gradually work up to trimming one nail at a time, pairing the experience with praise and a yummy treat. Patience is key Short, positive sessions are better than forcing the process. CHOOSE THE RIGHT TOOLS: Comfort matters. Options include tradi-

member He was in both wars, WWII and Korea. He has worked all of his life and never left his community until he had to go to war.”

At the street-renaming ceremony, Kennedy one of the speakers, praised Brennan’s contributions to the VFW charter

“They had a vision for the future,” said Kennedy, who served as an Army sergeant in the Vietnam War from 1969-1970. “The original members did it for the next generation, for the combat veterans in need. Brennan was one of the patriarchs that everyone looked up to.”

Staying active

In his later years, Brennan stayed socially active in the community, regularly playing pool on Monday nights at Mugz’s Bar, even after his wife’s passing.

“Brennan is a world-class pool player,” Kennedy added. “He would play every week. Nothing stops him.”

In addition to attending monthly meetings for each veterans’ organization, Brennan also participated in community activities such as the car show in Reserve and the Veterans Day parade.

“This year will be the first time Brennan will be the grand marshal of the Veterans Day Parade,” said Kennedy “He is sharp and active, still at 100 years old.”

An expanding family

Today, Brennan’s family includes 13 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren, with another on the way His birthday celebration extended over several days, culminating on his actual birthday with the birth of his 27th greatgrandchild, who will carry the Lincoln Brennan name.

As one of four brothers who all served in the military, Brennan always cherished his family his friends, and the memory of his fallen fellow soldiers.

“In the Guadalcanal during WWII, they had a ship that was docked and the Japanese snuck under the chain, put a torpedo into it and blew it up. It blew us out of our beds. It killed quite a few people on shore and everybody on the ship. I got lucky,” he said.

tional clippers, scissor-style trimmers or battery-operated grinders that file down nails gradually Many owners find grinders less intimidating because they reduce the risk of cutting too much at once. WORK SLOWLY TO AVOID THE QUICK: On light nails, the quick is visible as a pink area. On dark nails, it’s hidden, so trim a small amount at a time. Watch for a small dark circle in the center of the cut surface as this is your warning to stop. For cats, trim only the sharp white tip.

HAVE STYPTIC POWDER HANDY: Accidents happen, and cutting the quick can cause bleeding. Styptic powder, a pet-safe clotting agent, is the best solution, although cornstarch can also work in a pinch.

TRY THE “ONE PAW A DAY” METHOD: Instead of doing all four paws in one session, trim just a few nails at a time. This lowers stress for nervous pets and helps build trust.

MAKE IT A POSITIVE ROUTINE: Pair nail trimming with a special reward that’s only given after the deed is done, such as a favorite chew toy or extra praise. This helps pets associate the trimming with something good. If the thought of trimming nails yourself seems overwhelming, you’re not alone. Many pet

parents prefer to leave it to a groomer or veterinarian. Nail trims can be added to regular wellness exams or scheduled as a quick standalone service. Whether you tackle nail trimming at home or hand it off to a professional, keeping your pet’s nails in check is a small step that makes a big difference for their comfort and health. For me, nail trimming is strictly a job for my veterinarian.

Events

SEPT 21: Animal Rescue New Orleans will be at the PetSmart adoption event, 6851 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie, from noon to 4 p.m. Meet dogs available for foster or adoption and get information on fostering, adopting, and volunteering. All approved adopters will receive a coupon book from PetSmart and a new dog bed from ARNO. For more info, contact adopt@animalrescueneworleans.org.

Traci D. Howerton is the volunteer manager for Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO), a nonprofit, volunteer-based, no-kill shelter. For more information on ARNO, visit www.animalrescueneworleans. org.

PROVIDED PHOTOS BY JUDY HARRISON
Lincoln Brennan Sr at a birthday celebration with his son and two daughters, Lincoln Jr Ann Pineau, left, and Carol Ricau.
PROVIDED PHOTO
Lincoln Brennan Sr gets kisses from the National WWII Museum’s Victory Belles at his 100th birthday celebration.
A poster displayed at the street-renaming ceremony is a pictorial history of Brennan’s life.

SCHOOLS

and registration online. https://experiencenocca. my.canva.site/experience-nocca25-26.

ST MARY’S DOMINICAN HIGH SCHOOL: Five Dominican High School seniors have been named semifinalists in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship competition Therese Carriere, Ashlynn Dinh Enna Hawes, Vanessa Liu and Emily Nathan have the opportunity to continue in the competition for scholarships worth nearly $26 million that will be offered next spring.

ST. MARY’S DOMINICAN HIGH: Dominican’s Spend-A-Day registration is open to prospective students in grades 5-8. The fall dates are Sept. 18 and 25; Oct. 3, 20, 28 and 31; and Nov. 4 and 11. Visits are 7:50 a.m. to 3:10 p.m., and guests will meet the students, faculty and staff and experience what it means to be a Dominican student. Registration is required. stmarysdominican.fsenrollment. com.

JOHN F. KENNEDY HIGH REUNION: The 50th reunion of the graduating class of 1976 will be held April 10, 2026. The reunion committee is seeking contact information from class members. Details are available on the JFK Class of ’76 Facebook page. cbrylski@aol. com.

JOHN MCDONOUGH REUNION: The class of 1960 will host its 65th reunion Oct. 22, noon-3 p.m., at the Elks Lodge, 2215 Cleary Ave in Metairie. Contacts for information or registration are Patricia Schoendorf Meyer at meyer.patricia@att.net and Jeanette Daigle LeBlanc at (504) 432-2115.

NEW ORLEANS PUBLIC SCHOOLS: Open enrollment events will be held for Early Learning & Child Care during Fridays in August and September. These sessions offer personalized support for enrolling children birth to 4 years in Early Learning & Child Care programs, starting or completing applications, exploring available learning centers, checking application status and answering enrollment questions Event dates are Sept. 19 and 26. See details at enrollnolaps.com.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES HEAD START: Catholic Charities is accepting applications for its Head Start preschool program, available to children in Orleans Parish who will turn 3 or 4 years old by Sept. 30. Head Start is free for families who meet income guidelines. Applications for the four participating Orleans Parish schools are available online. ccano.org/head-start-program.

Nunez instructor Don Mieger demonstrates safety techniques for students in the Wind Energy Technology program. Nunez will offer several Global Wind Organization workforce safety certification trainings in September and October

NUNEZ COMMUNITY

EDNA KARR VS. ARCHBISHOP SHAW
Shauunda Mitchell grills while tailgating at the Edna Karr vs. Archbishop Shaw football game.
Tailgaters
STAFF PHOTOS BY JOHN MCCUSKER
A Karr tuba player gives it his all before the football game.

A new chapter

New Jefferson Parish library opens in Avondale

A brand new, state-of-the-art library has opened at 558 Avondale Garden Road in Avondale.

The 4,528-square-foot library will serve as home to Jefferson Parish’s first “flex library,” featuring mobile shelving and reconfigurable spaces that enhance flexibility for dynamic programming, community engagement, and learning opportunities.

Key features of the new facility include:

n A high-tech community meeting room

n Three private study rooms

n Twelve public computer stations

n A spacious, resource-rich reading and stack area

n A sleek, modern architectural design combining steel, metal paneling and a glazed curtain wall symbolizing strength, transparency and connectivity

“Public libraries are the cornerstone of every community, providing our youth with knowledge and sparking new interests

that shape our next generation of leaders,” said Jefferson Parish Council member Byron L. Lee, in whose district the library sits. “Libraries are open, inclusive hubs where everyone can come for social connections, learning, inspiration and discovery.”

INSPIRATIONAL AUTHORS: Three authors will talk about their inspirational books at 7 p.m. Sept. 22 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.

They are Dawn Jackson-Duvernay author of a new book titled “Mom, Share Your Memories with Me”; Velma Albert, author of the books “Grief,” “Girl to Woman,” and “A Better You!”; and Michall Willis, author of “Hidden Thoughts: Not Just a Preacher’s Kid.”

EPIDEMICS: Local historian

Derby Gisclair will talk about “Epidemics That Shaped New Orleans” at 7 p.m. Sept. 18 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. Gisclair says that the city is still feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic that took nearly 18,000 lives throughout the state. However, he says, during its 300-plus-year history there have been many diseases that have ravaged New Orleans, including smallpox, malaria, yellow fever, cholera and the Spanish flu.

ARCHDIOCESE RECORDS: Sarah Waits, research archivist at the Archdiocese of New Orleans, will introduce attendees to the Archdiocesan Archives at 7 p.m. Sept. 22 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.

The archives hold four centuries of records and are a vital resource for anyone researching their family’s ties to Louisiana Waits will discuss research methods and share her experience working with sacramental records to create an extensive family tree for Pope Leo XIV, which is now available for viewing as an online exhibit.

FOOD AND COCKTAILS: Food and drink demonstrations are coming up in Harvey and River Ridge. Mixologist Abigail Gullo will discuss “Early Americana Cocktails: Using Our First National Spirit, Apple Brandy,” and Chef Nora Wetzel will focus on German potato pancakes, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 23 at the West Bank Regional Library, 2751 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey.

The pair will duplicate their presentation the next day at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 24, at the River Ridge Library, 8825 Jefferson Highway River Ridge.

HARP CONCERT: Local harp players perform at 2:30 p.m. Sept. 21 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. A workshop for harp students occurs at 12:30 p.m., at the same location.

MEMORY CAFE: A Memory Cafe is a social gathering for people with memory loss, such as dementia, and their caregivers, providing a supportive and stigma-free environment for connection.

These cafes offer a welcoming space where participants can socialize, share experiences, and participate in activities, often with a focus on creating positive social interactions rather than solely on the health problem. Memory Cafes will be held at the following branch locations in August: n Lakeshore Library: 11 a.m. to noon Sept. 25. n Belle Terre Library: 10 to 11 a.m., Sept. 26. n Westwego Library: 10 to 11 a.m Oct. 14

PICKLEBALL OFFER: Pickleball’s popularity has exploded in recent years, making it the fastest-growing sport in the United States. The Jefferson Parish Library of Things offers pickleball sets for a two-week checkout. Each set includes four lightweight paddles, two outdoor plus two indoor balls and a bag to accommodate the equipment. The sets are available at the North Kenner Library, 630 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie, and the Terrytown Library, 680 Heritage Ave., Terrytown. (A full set that includes a net will be forthcoming at the East Bank Regional Library ) The patron just needs to find a pickleball court and enjoy the game with friends or family Chris Smith is manager of adult programming at the Jefferson Parish Public Library

STAFF FILE PHOTO BY CHRIS GRANGER
The Jefferson Parish library branch when under construction on Avondale Garden Road.
The Westbank Quarterback Club held its annual installation banquet, introducing the club’s of
school year, This is the organization’s 25th year of honoring the high school athletes of the West Bank Pictured is the board of directors, from left on the front row, Judge Vernon Wilty, Charlene Ory, Edith Wattigny, Berengher Brechtel, Wayne Ory, Mike Detillier, Carlie Alwert and Sophia Parigi; back row, John Bertucci, Shanon Wattigny, Nook Grundmeyer, Carl Nini, Dave Mouton, Jeff Wooton, John Alario and John Morehiser
SCREENSHOT
The new library is open in Avondale.

Little learners

movement

Monday

From wiggling and wriggling to a bilingual party, there’s plenty for kids at the library

There’s proof that learning can be fun at the New Orleans Public Library, with three programs coming up for young people.

THE LITTLEST LEARNERS can wiggle, wriggle and dance their way to developing literacy skills in the “Music and Movement” program at the Mid-City Library at 5 p.m. every Monday during the fall.

Mini movers ages 2-5 and their caregivers are invited to this unique series.

The library is at 4140 Canal St

For wee ones who’d rather be pirates than dancers, “Tiny Treasure Hunters: An Early Literacy Adventure” welcomes ages 2-5 to practice developing early literacy skills with crafts, hands-on activities, and snacks at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 19. It’s also at the Mid-City Library.

GEARED FOR THOSE AGES 6-12, bilingual and Spanishspeaking families are invited to “Miercoles en Central City con la Familia” on Sept 17 from 5 p.m. 6 p.m. at the Central City Library, 2020 Jackson Ave.

This monthly family fun night features an activity or game, snacks and book giveaway door prizes featuring Americas Award-winning titles. The Americas Award celebrates young adult and children’s literature that portrays Latin America, the Caribbean, and Latinx culture in the United States with an authentic lens.

This program is sponsored by the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library and the Stone Center for Latin American Studies at Tulane University.

AUTHOR TALK: Celebrated author Gabe Henry will visit the New Orleans Public Library via Zoom on Sept. 17 for virtual author talk about his book “Enough is Enuf: Our Failed Attempts to Make English Eezier to Spell.”

The New York Times Book Review praised Henry’s “nose for the memorable detail,” while The Wall Street Journal called the book a “smart, lighthearted chronicle. It’s fitting that our guide through this history is a humorist.”

Discussion participants will journey with Henry through the history of the English language, while he discusses troublemakers like Mark Twain who broke all the rules, humorously tracing the “simplified spelling movement.”

Henry’s talk starts at 1 p.m. Visit nolalibrary.co/ gabe-henry to register and submit your questions for the author

TERRARIUMS: The library is teaming up with NOLA Artist Incubator to host a free tiny terrarium workshop for anyone age 18 and up, at the East New Orleans Regional Library, 5641 Read Blvd.

This hands-on experience from 11 a.m. to noon Sept. 20 will not only enhance your crafting skills, but also deepen your connection with nature. It’s perfect for all skill levels, and you’ll leave with a unique, living centerpiece to brighten up your home. Supplies will be provided, so come ready to get your hands dirty and unleash your creativity. Registration is recommended; space is limited. Visit events.nolalibrary.org to sign up.

FITNESS: Be active this fall at the REACH Center with ANEW Fitness every Saturday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Each month has a new theme — line dancing in September, hip-hop cardio in October and chair yoga in November Classes are open to all fitness levels and run every Saturday from Sept. 13 to Nov 15. The REACH Center is at 2022 St. Bernard Ave., Building C. WRITING WILLS: Attorney Jonathan Reynolds will visit Keller Library & Community Center, 4300 S. Broad St., to host a workshop about writing a will, and how wills can establish and preserve generational wealth. The Sept 22 workshop starts at 5:30 p.m. and will also cover other end-of-life planning processes.

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

Manning family PLAYBOOK

Saints great Archie Manning went to Manning Family Children’s Hospital recently to read to young patients from ‘The Family Huddle,’ which tells his family’s football story. In the book, young future NFL stars Peyton and Eli learn tips about quarterback sneaks, buttonhooks and other gridiron plays from Archie, a College Football Hall of Famer in his own right.

Each patient will also receive a signed copy of the book.

It was written by Jim Madsen in 2009 and is being republished this year

ADVOCATE STAFF PHOTO BY SHAWN FINK
Young kids and parents can take part in a music and
program every
at the East New Orleans Regional Library.
Tucker Barton, 5, waves a pompom as Archie Manning walks into the room to read to patients.
Archie Manning looks at a page showing his sons, Cooper, Peyton and Eli as he reads ‘Family Huddle’ to patients.
Former New Orleans Saints quarterback Archie Manning autographs a jersey before reading to patients.
STAFF PHOTOS BY CHRIS GRANGER
Archie Manning greets patients after reading to them at Manning Family Children’s Hospital in New Orleans

COMMUNITY EVENTS

CRESCENT CITY CONNECTION

BRIDGE RUN: Registration is open for the Crescent City Classic’s bridge run at 6 p.m. Sept. 20. The 6K (3.7mile) race spans the bridge from the West Bank to the Central Business District, starting near Oakwood Center and ending on Fulton Street, where there will be a free post-race party with drinks, food and live music. Registration is $45. www. ccc10k.com.

SUN DAY IN NEW ORLEANS: “Rise Up for a Sun Powered Planet,” a celebration of renewable energy, will be held Sept. 20, noon-6 p.m., at Broadmoor Community Church, 2021 S. Dupre St. in New Orleans. It will feature food, a party for the sun, jazz performances, demonstrations on solar power, solar art projects, and expert presentations on building resilience and sustainability. (310) 346-4361, peterdigre@gmail. com.

SIPPIN’ ON SALA: A wine walk will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Westwego Museum on Sept 19, 6-9 p.m., 275 Sala Ave. in Westwego. The stroll will start at 435 Sala Ave head to the Josh Wingerter Art Gallery at 401 Sala Ave., continue to the open field by the Mardi Gras warehouse, where Throw Dat at 200 Sala Ave. will have a setup on the street, and end at the Westwego Museum, with four wine stations along the route. There will be live music, food vendors and craft vendors. www. visitjeffersonparish.com.

NEW ORLEANS NIGHTMARE: The 2025 Halloween season opens Sept. 20 for the haunted house at 319 Butterworth St. in Jefferson, with two new themed attractions, the Harvest and the Blood Shed, running through Nov. 8. Add-on experiences include mini escape games, Phobia: Sensory Overload and the Respawn Pass available for purchase. Guests 21 and over can add access to two secret bars. Presale tickets start now at $19.99 on select nights. neworleansnightmare.com/.

GARDEN TO GLASS: Attendees can sample garden-fresh drinks, learn how to make them at home and vote for their favorites as area distillers and bars compete to create the best cocktails using local ingredients. The event will be at the National WWII Museum Sept. 24, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tickets start at $15. www.nationalww2museum.org.

SALON DE JEANNE D’ARC: The Krewe de Jeanne d’Arc will host a conference about Joan of Arc, medieval history, local French culture and Catholic culture on Sept. 27, 1:305 p.m., at the Old Ursulines Convent Museum 1112 Chartres St. in New Orleans. The Salon will also include a theatrical presentation of Joan of Arc’s life story a panel discussion entitled “Yat Catholics.” Free. joanofarcparade.org.

NATIONAL PUBLIC LANDS DAY: A volunteer workday will be held Sept 27 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., at the Bonnet Carre Spillway, 101 Lower Guide Levee Road in Norco. Volunteers should bring sunscreen, water, gloves and closed-toed shoes and meet at the recreation area at the Bonnet Carré Spillway Lower Guide Levee Side to be assigned cleaning locations. For details, call Austin Leray, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. (985) 764-7484.

FESTIVALS

WESTBANK HERITAGE FESTIVAL: Dru Hill will headline the free festival, to be held at The Alario Center, 2000 Segnette Blvd. in Westwego, performing on Sept. 20. The two-day festival, Sept. 20 and 21, noon-9 p.m., also includes Pokey Bear, Mia X with The Original Pinettes, Shamarr Allen, Royal Essence and Hasizzle VIP tickets are available. www.westbankfest.com

INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL: The global celebration of music, art and people will be held Sept 25-28 at locations in the city, including the Orpheum Theater, Congo Square and The Fillmore. The lineup includes Luciano, Alexey Marti, Cory Henry, Chief Donald Harrison Jr. and others. Tickets start at $55.70. iafnola.com.

ALLIGATOR FESTIVAL: Festival is Sept. 25-28 at Westbank Bridge Park in St. Charles Parish, 13825 River Road in Luling. Thursday is locals night with free entry 6-9 p.m. Hours are Friday 6-11 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.9 p.m. The festival includes more than 80 local vendors, showcasing handmade crafts, local cuisine and creations from across the region Admission is $5; under 10 free Proceeds help the Rotary Club of St.

AROUND

Charles Parish fund college scholarships awarded to local youth. www alligatorfestival.org.

HEALTH

BLOOD DRIVE: St. Pius X will host a blood drive Sept. 21, 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m., in the gym, 6666 Spanish Fort Blvd. in New Orleans. Donors will be given a mini physical, blood pressure, iron and cholesterol screens and will receive a ticket to the Mortuary Haunted House. Appointments recommended. www.tbcdonors.org

KIDNEY SCREENING: A free kidney screening will be held on Sept. 20, 8:30 a.m.-noon, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, 455 Ames Blvd. in Marrero. All participants must be 18 years or older to get tested. The screening includes urine and blood tests to get an in-depth measure of kidney function, blood pressure reading for hypertension awareness and kidney health education. Appointments are requested. (504) 861-4500.

CULTURE & CONCERTS

TWILIGHT AT LONGUE VUE: The fall season starts Sept. 10 for Longue Vue House & Gardens’ musical series, with Electric Yat Quartet. Sept. 17 is Queta Cavalier, and Sept. 24 is Cristina Kaminis. Individual concert tickets are $15 and $7.50 for members. Season subscriptions are $100, $50 for members. All performances start at 5 p.m. at 7 Bamboo Road in New Orleans. longuevue.com.

THURSDAYS AT TWILIGHT: The outdoor concert series at the New Orleans Botanical Garden continues through Oct. 23, with performances 6-8 p.m. at the Pavilion of the Two Sisters, 1 Victory Ave. in New Orleans. Doors open at 5 p.m., and admission is $15 per person, with food and beverages available for purchase. The upcoming schedule includes Wanda Rouzan on Sept. 18 and The Fleurtations on Sept. 25. bit. ly/TwilightTix_25.

FRIENDS OF THE CABILDO FILM

SERIES: Tickets are available for the 2025-26 series, which begins Sept. 24 with “Big Charity: Death of America’s Oldest Hospital.” All films start at 6 p.m. at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, 400 Esplanade Ave in New Orleans. Tickets start at $10. friendsofthecabildo.org.

FRIENDS OF THE CABILDO LECTURES: Tickets are on sale for the 2025 series, which continues through Nov. 11, with seven presentations on Louisiana and New Orleans history. Tickets start at $10. friendsofthecabildo.org.

LPO PRESENTS MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS: The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra will feature the music of one of the most celebrated composers in film history, including “Jurassic Park,” “Harry Potter” and “Star Wars,” in concert on Sept. 18, 7:30 p.m., at the Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans. Tickets start at $35. lpomusic.com.

The concert will be performed Sept. 19, 7:30 p.m., at the Lafon Performing Arts Center, 275 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway in Luling. Tickets are $45. lafonartscenter.org.

UNION GEN. “BEAST” BUTLER IN

NEW ORLEANS: Mike Larkin, a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S Air Force, will address the Algiers Historical Society on Sept. 20, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at the Algiers Regional Library, 3014 Holiday Drive in Algiers. His talk will cover how Butler came to lead the Union Army that occupied New Orleans and his actions while in the city. algiershistoricalsociety.org

BIG FREEDIA + LPO: The Queen Diva collaborates with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra in a mashup of symphonic sound and bounce energy on Sept. 26, 8 p.m., at the Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans. Tickets start at $50. lpomusic.com.

ONE COUNTRY NIGHT: Westwego Farmers Market, 484 Sala Ave. in Westwego, will host live music from Clifton Brown and the Rusty Buckets Band on Sept. 26, 6-10 p.m. The event will include food vendors and craft vendors, with all proceeds going to the Westwego Booster Club. www.visitwestwego.com.

VERDI’S REQUIEM: The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra opens the 2025-2026 season in collaboration with the New Orleans Opera on Sept. 27, 7:30 p.m., at the Mahalia Jackson Theater, 1419 Basin St. in New Orleans. Under conductors Matthew Kraemer and Meg Frazier, the performers include Felicia Moore, soprano; Emily Treigle, mezzo soprano; Joshua Stewart, tenor; and Edwin Jhamaal Davis, bass. A pre-concert talk will take place at 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $35. lpomusic.com.

BOOKS

“THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD”: Colson Whitehead’s novel about slaves on a Georgia cotton plantation will be the subject of NOMA’s book club for September. The Sept. 18 event, to be held at noon at New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll Circle in New Orleans, is free and open to anyone. noma.org.

“WORLD WITHOUT END”: Author Martha Park will discuss her newest book, about the connections between climate change and faith in the fear and fascination of the end of the world, with Boyce Upholt on Sept. 18, 6 p.m., at Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania in New Orleans. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com

“SPLIT THE BABY: A MEMOIR IN PIECES”: Author Lauren Rhoades will be joined by Benjamin Morris for an interfaith discussion on place, memory and cultural and spiritual identity related to her debut book on Sept. 18, 6-7:30 p.m., at the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience, 818 Howard Ave. in New Orleans. Registration is requested. msje.org.

“A THOUSAND WAYS TO DIE”: Author and journalist Trymaine Lee will discuss his book with Charisse Gibson on Sept. 18, 6-8 p.m., at Baldwin & Co., 1030 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans. Free. Admission with a book and author meet-and-greet starts at $34.59 via Eventbrite. www baldwinandcobooks.com.

“MOTHER MARY COMES TO ME”:

Booker Prize-winning author Arundhati Roy will discuss her latest book, a memoir, on Sept. 20, 7-9 p.m., at Baldwin & Co., 1030 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans. Free. Admission with a book and author meet-and-greet starts at $35.46 via Eventbrite. www.baldwinandcobooks.com.

“HOW TO BE FREE”: Author Shaka Senghor will discuss his latest book on Sept. 23, 6-8 p.m., at Baldwin & Co., 1030 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans. General admission is free. Admission with a signed book and author meet-and-greet starts at $36.69 via Eventbrite. www.baldwinandcobooks.com

“THE DRAGON FROM CHICAGO”: Historian and author Pamela D. Toler, Ph.D., will discuss her book on Sept. 25, 4:30-6:30 p.m., at the National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St. in New Orleans. It tells the story of Sigrid Schultz, a journalist who served as the Chicago Tribune’s Berlin bureau chief and primary foreign correspondent for Central Europe from 1925 to 1941. A reception will begin at 4:30, with the presentation at 5:30. Free; registration requested. www.nationalww2museum.org.

FUNDRAISERS/GALAS

TREME FALL FESTIVAL PATRON PARTY: Tickets are on sale through Sept. 17 for the 2025 fundraiser in support of America’s oldest African American neighborhood, to be held 6-9 p.m. Oct. 17 at the George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center, 1205 N. Rampart St. in New Orleans. The event features a live performance by Wanda Rouzan, a special honoree recognition of Big Chief Victor Harris, Spirit of Fi Yi Yi, cuisine, open bar and auction. Tickets start at $125. www.tremefest.org.

ALREDO FOR FIDO DINNER: Metairie Humane Shelter is sponsoring a fundraising dinner on Sept. 20, 4-8 p.m., at St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church, 6017 Camphor St. in Metairie. Plates are $16 and include chicken Alfredo and a green salad. Advance orders requested. (504) 458-0531.

DISCO AMIGOS 2025 DISCO BALL: The Disco Amigos Social Aid and Pleasure Club gala will be on Sept. 20, 7:30-11:30 p.m., at Southport Hall, 200 Monticello Ave. in New Orleans.

“A Night of Glitter, Groove & Giving Back” will include an open bar, unlimited buffet, silent auction and disco beats. A portion of proceeds will go to support high school marching bands participating in the King Arthur Mardi Gras parade. Purchasing a ticket includes a threemonth membership. discoamigosnola.com.

COLLABORATIVE CHARITY DINNER: Chef Nina Compton will host a dinner at her New Orleans restaurant, Compère Lapin, with proceeds benefitting the Sir John Compton Memorial Foundation, a nonprofit established in honor of her late father, Sir John Compton of Saint Lucia. She will be joined by other celebrity chefs Tristen Epps-Long, Camari Mick and Rawlston Williams on Sept. 24, 5:30-9 p.m., at Compère Lapin, The Old No. 77 Hotel, 535

Tchoupitoulas St. in New Orleans.

Reservations required. Tickets are $100 (excluding tax and gratuity). www.comperelapin.com.

CANCER SURVIVORS’ LUNCHEON: Tickets are on sale for the Benjamin & Yancy Foundation fundraiser, to be held Sept. 25, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., at Messina’s at the Terminal Runway Café, 6001 Stars and Stripes Blvd. in New Orleans. This event celebrates the strength and resilience of local breast and prostate cancer survivors, while raising funds to provide free cancer care kits, transportation to treatment and health education workshops across the Greater New Orleans area. Tickets start at $92.55 via Eventbrite. www.benjaminandyancyfoundation.org.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE LUNCHEON: Cancer Crusaders will honor 12 cancer survivors who are active in their community at their annual fundraiser, to be held Oct. 3 at the New Orleans Marriott, 555 Canal St. in New Orleans. Doors open at 10 a.m. Tickets, on sale now, start at $120 through Sept. 26. Proceeds are divided equally between LSU Health Sciences Center and Tulane Cancer Center. Details at onecau.se/cancercrusaders.

ART SHOW AND AUCTION: The fundraiser for Our Lady of Divine Providence Catholic Church in Metairie will be held Sept. 26, 6-10 p.m., in the Msgr. Bendix Center at St. Matthew the Apostle Church, 10021 Jefferson Highway in River Ridge. The auction will include 52 original fine art pieces created by the Rev Mike Mitchell. https://oldp.org/.

MEETINGS

FRIENDS OF THE JEFFERSON PUBLIC LIBRARY: A general meeting on Sept. 17 at 10 a.m. will feature Eve Lion, Humana Market Point licensed sales representative, speaking on how to stretch your grocery dollars. The site is the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave. in Metairie. (504) 455-2665 or friendsjpl@Yahoo.com.

REPUBLICAN WOMEN’S CLUB: The Republican Women’s Club of Jefferson Parish will meet Sept. 18 at the Chateau Golf and Country Club, 3600 Chateau Blvd. in Kenner. Registration opens at 11 a.m., with lunch and the program starting at 11:45 a.m. Guest speakers are Sammy Wyatt and Jennifer Van Vrancken. The LGLA scholarship winners will be presented. RSVPs are required. RWC.ofJeffparish@gmail.com

SIERRA CLUB: The New Orleans Group of the Sierra Club, along with the New Orleans Secular Humanist Association, will hold a join monthly educational speaker event on Sept. 20, 3 p.m., at East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave. in Metairie. John P. Clark, director of La Terre Institute for Community and Ecology, will talk about “The Awakening Earth Community.”

DUTCH OVEN SOCIETY: The Wego Cookers, part of the Louisiana Dutch Oven Society, will meet on Sept. 20 at Bayou Segnette State Park, 7777 Westbank Expressway in Westwego. People interested in outdoor cooking in old-fashioned black iron pots are invited. Set up begins at 9 a.m., and sampling of the creations begins at 11:30 a.m. Free, but an entrance fee of $3 is required for those under 62. (504) 756-1853 jheiken209@ gmail.com.

CLASSES

INTRODUCTION TO 3D PRINTING: East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W Napoleon Ave. in Metairie, will host a seminar on additive manufacturing, Sept. 25, 7-8 p.m., in the learning center. The class will cover the fundamentals of 3D printing, examples of innovative products and the implications of 3D printing on design, production and sustainability Registration is required. Youth ages 11 and under must have a parent/ guardian 18 registered with them. calendar.jplibrary.net.

THRILLER FLASHMOB WORKSHOP: Flash Mob New Orleans will hold an eight-week family-friendly dance workshop led by Kenneth “Kynt” Bryan and inspired by Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” beginning Sept. 13 and running Saturdays through Oct. 25, 2-3:30 p.m., upstairs at the Anne Burr Dance Studio, 1128 Dublin St. in New Orleans. The workshop is for all ages and skill levels and culminates in a series of secret performances throughout New Orleans, leading up to the citywide celebration on Halloween. The cost is $100 or $10 per class. www.flashmobneworleans. com.

St. Bernard swim program gets donation of life jackets

STAFF PHOTO BY SOPHIA GERMER
The Crescent City Classic’s run across the Crescent City Connection will take place Sept. 20.
PROVIDED PHOTO
Meraux Elementary completed their swim lessons at the
From left on the front row are Lia Suyo Puma, Znala Branch, Jahshaye Charles, Izan Caceres Sabillon, Luis Duarte Valladares, Kaleb Hernandez, Laytin Burns and Kinsley Borden; second row,
Tortorich, Drew Young, Chance Augustin, Kevin Cooper, Grace Martinez, Harlem Bourgeois, Kylan Eunice, Kiara Pacheco and coach Millie Soroe.

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