Crescent City Picayune 10-08-2025

Changing expectations

Junior League program provides diapers for families

BY EVA JACOB BARKOFF Contributing writer

Maria Huete remembers the first time that she and members of the Junior League of New Orleans discussed creating a program to help parents, especially women, by providing one of the basic needs for their children diapers.

“From 2012 to 2013, we held a planning session to work on our mission and our projects,” said Huete, past

president of the league. “It was around that same time I read an article about a program called the ‘Every Little Bottom Study’ that was commissioned by Huggies (a Kimberly-Clark company).

“It identified the need for diapers as a problem and the increased rate of depression and anxiety among women because of their inability to provide diapers for their children. That article hit me deeply as a mother who had never questioned my ability to provide diapers for my triplets.”

CHILLS & GIGGLES

The solution was the creation of a Diaper Bank in 2014 to receive donations of diapers and other hygiene necessities, including menstrual and adult incontinence products Since then, the Junior League has given away 10 million of these items throughout the New Orleans area. During the organization’s Diaper Awareness Week held last month, the goal to collect 11,000 diapers was far

New Orleans area pet lovers and running enthusiasts alike will soon have a reason to

up their sneakers and leash up their pups. The eighth annual NOLA Dogs Race to the Rescue 5K Run/Walk is happening Oct. 12 at Metairie Cemetery The morninglong celebration combines fitness,

and philanthropy, with proceeds supporting

rescue groups, including Animal

New

Take Paws Rescue, The Inner Pup, Trampled Rose Rescue & Rehab, and Zeus’ Rescues. Over the past seven years, the event has drawn close to 1,000 participants annually and raised about $175,000 for animals in need.

JoAnne Casey, founder of NOLA Girl Charitable Giving, which organizes the fundraiser in partnership with Heaven’s Pets at Lake Lawn Metairie, said this event brings together runners, pet lovers and the community to raise funds for local animal rescue groups. Every dollar helps provide medical care and support for pets in need until they find their forever homes.

Patrick McCausland, president of Heaven’s Pets, said the event, in its fourth year, is becoming a fall tradition in New Orleans. “This fun, family-oriented event is a celebration of the Greater New Orleans pet community and a chance to raise both awareness and funds for a great cause,” he said.

The festivities kick off at 8 a.m. with a lively dog parade through Metairie Cemetery complete with costumes, a second line led by the Big Fun Brass Band, and

Nation arts scholarship. www.camelotnation

Patch work

org/events. THE BATTURE PUMPKIN PATCH: Pumpkins and festivities will be available daily, 11 a.m.9 p.m., at 25 Walnut St. in New Orleans. www batture.com.

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: The pumpkin patch will be open Monday-Friday, 3-7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; and Sunday 1-7 p.m. 5401 S. Claiborne Ave. in New Orleans. fpcno. org/pumpkin-patch.

ST ANDREW’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH: The pumpkin patch is open Monday-Friday, 3-7 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. at 1031 S. Carrollton Ave. in New Orleans. www.standrewsnola.com.

ST. AUGUSTINE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH: The church’s pumpkin patch, at 3412 Haring Road

HALLOWEEN

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stations for kids 12 and under with sustainably sourced candy, photo opportunities and a haunted house adventure. Tickets are $38 for nonmembers; $12 for members. Advance purchase is recommended. audubonnatureinstitute.org/boo.

MORGUS MADNESS: WYES hosts the fundraiser on Oct. 17, 7-10 p.m., at its studio, 916 Navarre Ave. in New Orleans, on the campus of Delgado Community College. The soiree pays homage to Morgus the Magnificent, a fixture on local television created and portrayed by Sid Noel Rideau The evening will include live music, food and more. Costumes are encouraged. Prizes will be awarded in three categories: Best Morgus Show Character, Best Couple and Most Creative Homemade Costume Tickets are $45 via Eventbrite. www. wyes.org. BREWS AND BOOS: The adults-only Halloween event in the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park at City Park, 1 Palm Drive in New Orleans, will take place Oct. 24 and 25, 8-11 p.m., with unlimited Amusement Park rides and open beer bars. Tickets start at $40. neworleanscitypark.org. MEMNOCH BALL: The 37th anniversary of the Anne Rice Vampire Lestat Fan Club Ball in honor of Memnoch the Devil will be held Oct. 31, 7-11:30 p.m., at Capital on Baronne, 210 Baronne St. in New Orleans. Live music; open bar. Tickets start at $393.46 via Eventbrite vamplestat.com/.

BOO CARRE HALLOWEEN HAUNT: The free event takes place in Dutch Alley, 900 block of North Peters Street, on Oct. 25, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The kid-centric event encourages costumes for all ages and will feature live music, activities, a spooky ssecond line and trick-or-treating. www.frenchmarket.org

HALLOWEEN NEW ORLEANS: The LGBTQ community celebrates with

in Metairie, will be open Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m.7 p.m. www.staugustinesmet.com.

ST. BERNARD PARISH CATHOLIC CHURCH: The pumpkin patch will be held at the church, 2805 Bayou Road, Kenilworth, starting Oct. 15. Times are Monday-Friday, 4-6 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Sunday, noon-6 p.m. Admission is $3. stbernard-stbla.com.

ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH: The pumpkin patch will be open Monday-Friday, 3:306 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., at 2216 Metairie Road in Metairie. www stmepiscopal.com.

ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL: The school, located at 6249 Canal Blvd. in New Orleans, will host a pumpkin patch Monday-Thursday,

3:30-6 p.m.; Friday, 3-6

ST.

On

three New Orleans events, Oct. 2426. The Parthenon Ball will be held Friday, 7-10 p.m., at Gallier Hall, 545 St. Charles Ave. Olympus After Dark is Saturday, 10 p.m.-3 a.m., at the Fillmore New Orleans, 6 Canal St., with a costume review 10:30-11 p.m. Poseidon’s Voyage is Sunday, 1-5 p.m., aboard the Riverboat City of New Orleans, 400 Toulouse St. Tickets start at $85. Proceeds benefit Project Lazarus. www.halloweenneworleans.com.

“DRACULA”: New Orleans Ballet Theatre will perform Oliver Halkowich’s ballet based on the Bram Stoker novel Oct. 24-30 at the Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans. The show is suitable for all ages. Curtain is at 8 p.m., and 2 p.m. for matinees. Tickets start at $42. www.neworleansballettheatre.com.

ROCK & ROUGE 2025: The women’s music and food festival will be held Oct. 25-26, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., in Lafayette Square, 500 St. Charles Ave in New Orleans, with music, food, speakers and more. www.therockandrouge.com.

KREWE OF BOO + ROCK & ROUGE PARTY: Krewe Of Boo and Rock & Rouge will host a Halloween costume party with live music on Oct. 24, 8 p.m., at the Toulouse Theatre in the French Quarter, 615 Toulouse St. in New Orleans. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Party is at 8-11 p.m. Advance tickets are $25. www kreweofboo.com.

KREWE OF BOO!: New Orleans’ official Halloween parade rolls Oct. 25, 6:30 p.m., starting at Elysian Fields Avenue and ending on Andrew Higgins Drive. The post-parade costume party, the Monster Mash, will begin at 8 p.m. at Generations Hall, 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $34.44 via Eventbrite. www.kreweofboo.com.

HALLOWEEN BAR CRAWL: The two-day bar crawl will be held Oct.

31-Nov. 1, starting with a required check-in at 4-6 p.m. on Friday and ending with an after party, 1011:59 p.m. on Saturday. Registration starts at $18.41 via Eventbrite. Details at www.crawlwith.us/neworleans/halloween.

DARK GIFT ALLIANCE — BELLE

EPOQUE NOIR: The Coven of the Articulate will host a Halloween celebration on Oct. 30, 9 p.m.-1 a.m at Generations Hall, 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd. in New Orleans. The event includes live entertainment and music, an open bar, tarot reading and a raffle. Admission starts at $124.50. Attendees must be 21 and older www.covenofthearticulate.com.

Trunk or treat events will take place Oct. 18 at Muss Bertolino Stadium in Kenner and Oct. 25 at the East Regional Library in Destrehan.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

HALLOWEEN BINGO: The Belle Terre Library, 5550 Belle Terre Road in Marrero, will host bingo for all ages on Oct. 11, 2-4:15 p.m. Costumes encouraged. calendar.jplibrary.net.

“HAPPY HALLOWEEN, SCOOBY

DOO!”: A matinee of the 2020

animated story of Scooby and the gang joining forces with Bill Nye and Elvira after toxic ooze creates an army of monstrous pumpkins will be on Oct. 11, 2:30-4:30 p.m., in the library commons at the Lakeshore Library, 1000 W. Esplanade Ave. in Metairie. calendar.jplibrary.net.

SUGAR ROOTS FARM PUMPKIN FEST: The benefit for the farm takes place 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct. 12, 19 and 26, with a pumpkin patch, live music, clown yoga, pony rides and more at 10701 Willow Drive in Algiers. Tickets, $20.80 adults, $15.60 for kids, include a free pumpkin.

“THE ADDAMS FAMILY”: The Westwego Library, 635 Fourth St. in Westwego, will present the 2019 animated film Oct. 13, 6-7:30 p.m. Children under 12 require adult supervision. calendar.jplibrary.net.

FRIGHT NIGHT: AN EVENING OF TERRIFYING TALES: Friends of Hubbell Library will host local authors Adrian Van Young, SueBird Sparrow and Dawn Chartier celebrating spooky season by reading their most macabre manuscripts on Oct. 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at the Cita Dennis Hubbell Library, 725 Pelican Ave in New Orleans. Costumes encouraged. neworleans.libnet

TRUNK OR TREAT: The Dawn Busters Kiwanis Club’s family-friendly Halloween event will be on Oct. 18, 6-8 p.m., at Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd. in Metairie, for children up to the age of 12. There will be carousel rides, a costume contest and more. Tickets are $10 per child. dawnbusters.org.

TEEN HALLOWEEN: The West Regional Library will host a night of crafts, games and an escape room Oct. 18, 6-10 p.m., at the library, 105 Lakewood Drive in Luling, with a screening of the 1999 Brendan Fraser movie, “The Mummy.” For teens 13 and older. Registration is required. www.myscpl.org.

KENNER TRUNK OR TREAT: The Halloween event with safe trickor-treating will be Oct. 18, 5-7 p.m., at Muss Bertolino Stadium, 620 W Esplanade Ave. in Kenner. Costumes are encouraged. A screening of “Monsters, Inc.” follows the trick-ortreating. www.kenner.la.us.

PUMPKIN PAINT PARTY: The Norco branch of the St. Charles Parish Library will provide paint, brushes and extras for children and accompanying adults, but bring your own pumpkin. The event is Oct. 27, 5:30-7 p.m., at the library’s meeting room, 590 Apple St. in Norco. www myscpl.org.

GHOUL PARTY: The East Regional Library will host a Halloween event for middle and high school students on Oct. 28, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at 160 W Campus Drive in Destrehan. The party includes a scavenger hunt and a screening of the 2002 live action movie “Scooby Doo,” with Freddy Prinze Jr. and Sarah Michelle Gellar. www.myscpl.org.

HOCUS POCUS LIFE POTIONS: Middle and high school students can brew their own Life Potion using a tea blending kit while watching “Hocus Pocus,” the 1993 Bette Midler comedy at the St. Rose branch of the St. Charles Parish Library, 90 East Club Drive in St. Rose. The event will be Oct. 30, 4-5:30 p.m. www.myscpl.org.

SPOOKTACULAR CUPCAKE DECORATING: Chefs from the Delgado Culinary and Pastry Arts Department will share their expertise in creating spooky treats on Oct. 25, 11 a.m. to noon, at the Norman Mayer Library 3001 Gentilly Blvd. in New Orleans. This program is for ages 9-12. Registration is required. neworleans. libnet.info.

“THE EVOLUTION OF HORROR TOURS IN NEW ORLEANS”: Randy Bibb, a tour guide and instructor of Delgado Community College’s professional tour guiding program, will trace the rise of the New Orleans horror tour industry on Oct. 25, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., in the first floor meeting room of the Main Library, 219 Loyola Ave. in New Orleans. The presentation is also available via Zoom. https://neworleans.libnet.info/event/14076456.

HALLOWEEN DOUBLE FEATURE: The Algiers Regional Library will host an afternoon of history, trivia, refreshments and cinema on Oct. 25, 1-4:30 p.m., at 3014 Holiday Drive in New Orleans. The films are the 1962 “Carnival of Souls” and Francis Ford Coppola’s 1963 “Dementia 13.” neworleans.libnet.info.

TRUNK OR TREAT: East Regional Library, in partnership with the Girl Scouts Louisiana East St. Charles Parish Service Unit 216 will hold the family-friendly event on Oct. 25, 3-5 p.m., at the library, 160 W Campus Drive in Destrehan. www myscpl.org.

WESTWEGO FARMERS MARKET TRICK OR TREAT: The event will be held Oct. 25, 5-8 p.m., at the market, 484 Sala Ave. Activities include a DJ, costume contest, food and craft vendors and more. www.visitjeffersonparish.com.

CLASSES

SFX MAKEUP TRICKS: A class covering a variety of methods to create fake cuts and bruises with features faux blood and liquid latex will be offered for middle and high school students at the St. Rose branch of the St. Charles Public Library, 90 East Club Drive in St. Rose, on Oct. 23, 4-5 p.m. Registration is required. www.myscpl.org.

“THE EVOLUTION OF HORROR TOURS”: Randy Bibb, a tour guide and instructor of Delgado Community College’s professional tour guiding program, will trace the rise of the New Orleans horror tour industry on Oct. 25, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Main Library, 219 Loyola Ave in New Orleans. The presentation is also available via Zoom. neworleans.libnet.

“When I joined the league in 2013, I was surprised to find there was a need for diapers in the community We learned 1 in 2 families live at or below the poverty line and often have to make choices between buying diapers or paying for other essentials such as food, rent or utilities.”

MICHELLE CLARKE PAYNE, president of the Junior League of New Orleans.

DIAPERS

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surpassed, with 18,912 diapers donated.

The nonprofit’s aim is to advance leadership opportunities for women to make an impact in the community through volunteerism and collaboration. The organization also supports projects and organizations that align with the needs of the New Orleans area. Established in 1924, it today has about 1,700 members.

The group collaborates with several local nonprofit organizations to help put the diapers in the right hands, including the Rosa Keller Library and Community Center; Love Your Neighbor Nola; Luke’s House Clinic; Crescent City Family Services; and the Hispanic Resource Center Requirements to get the free diapers are set by individual organizations

Michelle Clarke Payne is the current president of the Junior League of New Orleans.

“When I joined the league in 2013, I was surprised to find there was a need for diapers in the community,” Payne said. “It was imperative for the league to step in and address this.

“We learned 1 in 2 families live at or below the poverty line and often have to make choices between buying diapers or paying for other essentials such as food, rent or utilities.”

She cited several statistics from research conducted in 2024 by the National Diaper Bank Network, a nonprofit organization that supports community-based diaper banks.

League of New Orleans Diaper Bank.

WHERE TO DONATE

n Junior League Headquarters, 4319 Carondelet St. New Orleans. Donations are accepted Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

n The Diaper Bank, 109 N.Al Davis Road, Unit A, Elmwood. Wednesdays from 9 a.m.to 4 p.m.

n The Ochsner Health Center for Children, 1315 Jefferson Highway, Jefferson. Mondays through Fridays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.A donation bin is located to the left of the main entrance.

n The Louisiana Children’s Museum, 15 Henry Thomas Drive, New Orleans Tuesdays through Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

n 47% of parents reported struggling to provide their children with diapers

n 53% of parents felt judged as a bad parent or caregiver because they could not afford diapers.

n 46% reported reducing other expenditures to afford diapers

n 25% parents and caregivers had to miss work because they did not have

enough diapers to drop their children off at day care.

Kenya Myles coordinated her first diaper drive in 2018 with the help of the youth ministry at the Greater St. Stephen Full Gospel Baptist Church.

“Our goal was to collect and donate 6,000 diapers, and after a few weeks, we collected 6,700 diapers,” said Myles, a registered

nurse at Ochsner Medical Center who was named the Junior League of New Orleans’ 2025 volunteer of the year

“We also volunteered at the league’s diaper warehouse in Elmwood and sorted 8,000 diapers. This experience was a defining moment in my life. It’s amazing what we can do when we all come together.”

Clarke, who’s also the chief strategy and resiliency officer for the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, said that she “sees every day how families in our community struggle.”

“In the New Orleans area, this is a reality for too many,” she said. “Something as simple as providing diapers can ease the burden, allowing families to focus on essentials like food and rent while keeping their lives on track.”

For more, go to jlno.org or call (504) 891-5845.

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sidelines with their families. The race concludes with refreshments, an awards ceremony and an auction.

Finally, at 9:30 a.m., Heaven’s Pets will host its annual Blessing of the Pets, a free tradition honoring both current companions and pets who have passed. Treats, giveaways and Plum Street Snoballs will be available for attendees, both human and furry

For those unable to attend in person, virtual participation is also an option. Registration, details and auction access are available at noladogsrace.com or by calling (504) 502-6206. Race-day registration begins at 7 a.m. at 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd.

WDSU reporter Randi Rousseau will be the emcee for the race, along with her dogs, Huey and Dewy Chuck George with New Orleans Running Systems, Inc. will direct the race.

Events

OCT 11: Metairie Humane

Shelter will hold a pet adoption event called Barking at Bowers Oct. 11, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Matt Bowers Ford, 3724 Veterans Memorial Blvd., in Metairie. Adoption fees are $250 for adult dogs and $350 for puppies once an application is approved. metairiehumane.org.

OCT 12: Pups & Pedals with Harley Davidson will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. sponsored by Clesi’s and Urban South at Clesi’s Seafood Restaurant and Bar, 4324 Bienville St., New Orleans. It will feature adoptable ARNO dogs. The $25 ticket includes lunch, drink, a raffle ticket and a $5 donation to ARNO. There will also be a book signing of “Woman on a Mission” by Jill Dill Vincent. For more info, email adopt@animalrescueneworleans.org.

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

PROVIDED PHOTO

Chiyco is a charming year-old beagle-corgi mix with short legs, a round belly and a heart full of love. He’s sure to steal your heart with his sweet, soulful eyes. A bit shy at first, Chiyco warms up and becomes a loyal and playful friend He gets along wonderfully with other dogs. To learn more, email adopt@animalrescueneworleans.org

The state produces 12- to 14-million pounds of oysters annually — 30% to 40% of the United States’ supply, the Louisiana Oyster Task Force says. Find out more about the public-private partnerships that makes the process work on Oct. 21 in a conversation at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave. Metairie. Cyril Lagvanec, Ph.D., will talk about the commercial oyster business at 7 p.m., along with Al Sunseri, president and owner of P&J Oysters, who will speak and answer questions.

The oyster industry generates significant economic impact estimated at $317 million annually, and employs over 3,500 people.

Louisiana oysters are a significant part of the state’s culture, economy, and environment, and are known for their unique flavor and the important role they play in coastal ecosystems.

Louisiana oystermen fish public oyster grounds for seed oysters (less than 3 inches) and transplant them to private leases for cultivation and future harvest They also harvest market-size oysters (3 inches or larger) from public grounds.

Most of Louisiana’s total oyster harvest comes from private leases, but many of these oysters began their lives as seed oysters on public grounds. In fact a boatload of seed oysters cultivated on a lease produces an estimated two to three boatloads of marketable oysters. This successful publicprivate partnership helps Louisiana continue to lead the nation in oyster production year after year GRANT WORKSHOP: Katie Mitchell, founder and president of CCC

SHELL GAME

Firm and Business Source II, will lead a grant-writing seminar from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Oct. 16 at the Rosedale Library, 4036 Jefferson Highway, Jefferson. Topics will include how to find grants and write a winning proposal; best practices; getting public federal and private grants and more. Mitchell has more than 30 years of financial experience.

POISON IN LITERATURE: Amber Jurgensen, a doctoral candidate in English at Louisiana State University, will discuss the use of poison in classic and young adult literature at two presentations — one on each side of the river The presentations are at 7 p.m. n Oct. 14, at the West Bank Regional Library, 2751 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey n Oct. 28, at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. Both free events are tea parties, and light refreshments will be

served.

GENEALOGY: Gwen Kelley, a librarian who specializes in genealogy will lead a series of classes at the Jane O’Brien Chatelain West Bank Regional Library 2751 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey The classes take place at 7 p.m. on the following Thursdays: n Oct. 9: Newspapers and Obituaries n Oct. 16: Researching Cemetery Records n Nov 13: Researching Military Records n Nov 20: Researching Immigration Records n Dec. 4: Using ancestry.com n Dec. 18: Using familysearch.

org WOMEN OF KATRINA: A new documentary from Royd Anderson titled “Leading Ladies of Hurricane Katrina” will be aired at 7 p.m. Oct. 8 at the River Ridge Library, 8825 Jefferson Highway, River Ridge. The documentary features in-

Mount Carmel student activities director wins lifetime achievement award

SCHOOL NOTES

Oct. 8-9, 6:30 p.m., in the NOCCA Nims Blackbox Theatre, 2800 Chartres St. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $23.18 via Eventbrite. nocca.com/events. NOCCA: The Experience NOCCA Workshop Series for aspiring artists in grades 8-12 will be held biweekly Oct. 20-Dec. 11. Last day to sign up is Sept. 29. Classes take place 4-5:30 p.m. at New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, 2800 Chartres St. in New Orleans. Students can sign up for one class per session at $75 per workshop. Details and registration at experiencenocca.my.canva site ST. MARY’S DOMINICAN HIGH: Dominican’s Spend-A-Day registration is open to prospective students in grades 5-8. The fall dates are Oct. 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

Sue Buras, right, Mount Carmel Academy’s student activities director received the 2025 STEMMY Service Learning Lifetime Achievement Award for more than 25 years of service with the Brown Foundation and the STEM Library, which the foundation supports. Buras delivered the keynote address at the Service Learning Award Celebration on Sept. 25. Todd Wackerman, executive director and cofounder of the STEM Library, presented the award to Buras.

PROVIDED PHOTO

ST. MARY’S DOMINICAN HIGH: Registration is open for Dominican Cheer Mini-Camp for girls in grades K-7, to be held Oct. 11, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., at the school, 7701 Walmsley Ave. in New Orleans. Groups will be divided by grade level, with each group instructed by the Dominican Cheerleaders and monitored by adult chaperones. Fee is $50 when registered online by 5 p.m. Oct. 9. Walk-up registration is $60. www.stmarysdominican.org

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, noon3 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.

terviews with women who have helped better their community, city, state and region since the hurricane.

ABOUT LAFAYETTE: John Scurich, a local political consultant, will give a talk on the Marquis de Lafayette at 7 p.m. Oct. 9 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, born in 1757, was a young, wealthy French aristocrat. He defied his own king to enter the American Revolution against Great Britain.

QUILTING: An event coming up Oct. 18 called “Binding Us Together: Quilts and Stories” is geared for patrons who want to explore the art, history and community awareness of quilting. This special event will feature meet-and-greets with local quilt guilds, tabletop show-and-tell demonstrations, and four speakers, including Laura Fenner,

owner of Chateau Sew in New Orleans, on the business of running a quilt shop; Jackie Crovetto on the history of quilting; and April Bergeron with a lecture on collage quilting. It will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 18 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. Patrons can enjoy quilts on display, door prizes, and a table of free quilting materials (while supplies last).

READING TO ROVER: This innovative program pairs young and reluctant readers with dogs from the Visiting Pet Program. Children read a book to a friendly canine from 1 to 2 p.m. Oct. 18 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. Patrons should not bring their own pets. COOKBOOK CLUB: The group meets from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 18 at the Lakeshore Library, 1000 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie. Patrons are encouraged to bring a favorite dish inspired by a cookbook and share it with fellow foodies. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, this is the perfect opportunity to try new recipes, exchange cooking tips, and make new friends. Don’t forget to bring a copy of the cookbook for reference and be ready to discuss your cooking experience.

DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS AND MORE: Join a new campaign of Dungeons and Dragons, led by an experienced Dungeon Master from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. every other Saturday at the Terrytown Library, 680 Heritage Ave. The next session happens Oct. 11 and is for adults only An adult tabletop roleplaying group meets from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. every Wednesday at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. This group allows players — experienced and new — to join adventures across different platforms. Teens can join a Dungeons and Dragons campaign every Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the East Bank Regional Library All materials are provided. Chris Smith is manager of adult programming at the Jefferson Parish Public Library

Something to crow about

‘Six of Crows’ autho Leigh Bardugo talks ab YA fantasy series

BY JANE LEGROS Contributing writer

Since 2015, Leigh Bardugo’s highly popular “Six of Crows” has taken world of YA literature by storm. complex fantasy setting, thoughtfull structured magic system and deli ciously morally gray characters collide in a world you won’t want leave.

Bardugo will visit the New O leans Public Library via Zoom on Oct. 9 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. to dis cuss her bestselling series. Visit nolalibrary.co/bardugo to register and submit your questions for the author

SENSORY PLAY: Families looking for a welcoming and comfortable space for neurodivergent children are invited to the Keller Library, 4300 S. Broad St., every Saturday in October from 10:30 a.m. to noon for Sensory Play

This smaller and adaptive play and exploration program is inclusive and accessible to all, including children who are physically and developmentally aged 2-5.

It is designed to help children explore their senses and learn in a way that is both fun and engaging. Registration is required. Please visit nolalibrary.co/ sensory-play to sign up.

MATH MADE FUN: Students in third through sixth grade are invited to improve their math skills and learn some fun games at Smith Library’s Math Workouts program on Oct. 14

Leigh Bardugo

Presented in partnership with Make It Count Math, this interactive program allows kids to flex their math skills in a fun and educational way

The program runs from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 6301 Canal Blvd., and a light dinner will be provided Visit events.nolalibrary.org for details and registration.

AFRICAN DANCE: Every Tuesday in October, the REACH Center will host a free traditional West African dance class for all ages Attendees will learn African dance movements, techniques, history, and folklore with

director Myienie Caesar, certified from the Republic of Guinea. This 90-minute workshop, at 2022 St. Bernard Ave. Building C, is open to the public. All ages and levels are welcome. No prior dance experience is required. FRIGHT NIGHT: Get into the Halloween Spirit at Hubbell Library on Oct. 14 with “Fright Night: An Evening of Terrifying Tales,” from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Local authors Adrian Van Young, SueBird Sparrow and Dawn Chartier celebrate the spooky season by reading their most macabre manuscripts Dress up in your most ghoulish garb and get into the Halloween spirit at this spooky storytelling event featuring local authors and two-sentence horror stories written by library patrons, which you can submit at nolalibrary. co/two-sentence-horror-stories. The library is at 725 Pelican Ave. Visit nolalibrary.co/spooky for fun Halloween-y events for all ages.

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

1450 L&A Road in Metairie. The event will feature live entertainment by Karma, food, and games, with proceeds supporting scholarships and career development programs in architecture, engineering, construction and skilled trades for New Orleans-area youth. www.palmisanofoundation.org.

GENTILLY FEST: The free festival celebrating all things Gentilly is scheduled for Oct. 10-12 at Pontchartrain Park, 5701 Press Drive in New Orleans. Hours are Friday 6-9 p.m., Saturday noon-9 p.m. and Sunday noon-8 p.m. Activities include continuous live music on three stages, food, arts and crafts vendors, a Kids Village and more. VIP packages are available via Eventbrite. www. gentillyfestival.com.

CRESCENT CITY BLUES &

p.m. Carnival-ride wristbands are for sale. www. thegumbofestival.com.

JAPAN FEST: The fest will be held Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at New Orleans Museum of Art in City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle. The event will include a chance to try on Samurai armor, Japanese arts and crafts, taiko drums performance, Japanese dance and tea ceremonies, food and drink. Admission is $10. japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org.

QUE PASA FESTIVAL: The celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month through music, food, dance and community spirit will be held Oct. 11-12, starting at noon, at Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd. in Metairie. https:// quepasafest.org/. ANDOUILLE FESTIVAL: The festival will be held Oct. 17-19 at St. John Community Center, 2900 U.S. 51 in LaPlace. Hours are 6-10 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. Activities include carnival rides, live music, a kids’ tent and food. The festival includes the Miss Andouille Queen pageant at the St. John Theatre on Sept. 13 and the 50th annual Andouille Run/Walk on Oct. 19. Daily admission is $5. andouillefestival.

com. PRAISE FEST ON THE BAYOU: The three-day outdoor gospel musical event will be held Oct. 17-19, 11 a.m.7 p.m., on Bayou St. John, 500 N. Norman C. Francis Parkway in New Orleans. Free. www.praisefestnola.

com.

NOLA FUNK FEST: The three-day outdoor music festival will be held Oct. 17-19 at Spanish Plaza, 2 Canal St. in New Orleans. The lineup includes Dumpstaphunk, Funky Meters 2.0, Galactic, The Headhunters, Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen, George Porter Jr. and Runnin’ Pardners, Sam’s Funky Nation, Honey Island Swamp Band Bucktown All-stars, The Original Pinettes Brass Band and more. Tickets start at $56.36. www.nolafunkfest.

com.

WEST BANK HISPANIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL: The celebration of the cultural heritage, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities will be held Oct. 18, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., at the University of Holy Cross campus in Algiers, 4123

Woodland Drive in New Orleans. Local artisans, musicians and performers will showcase their talents. Free. uhcno.edu.

LOUISIANA SHRIMP FESTIVAL + SHRIMP AID: A weekend of familyfriendly fun, music, food, education and celebration supporting the shrimping industry will be held Oct. 18-19 at The Broadside, 600 N. Broad St. in New Orleans. Live music includes John Boutte, Honey Island Swamp Band Sunpie and the Louisiana Sunspots, and more. Children’s activities include The Little Shrimp and the Terrible Noise Puppet Show on Saturday. Admission starts at $17. louisianashrimpfestival.org

COMMUNITY EVENTS

MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS: The brand’s newest location and first in Louisiana will open its doors Oct. 17 in the Jax Brewery building, 600 Decatur

St. in New Orleans. The immersive experience for all ages spans 9,000 square feet of installations, optical illusions, 3D holograms, more than 80 exhibits and interactive illusion rooms. Hours on Sunday-Thursday are 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m. with final admission one hour before closing. www.moineworleans.com

TOUR DA PARISH: Registration is open for the 11th noncompetitive bike ride through St. Bernard Parish to take place Oct. 25, starting at 7 a.m. Course options are 10 miles, 15 miles, 30 miles and 51 miles. The ride starts at the Los Islenos Heritage Site, 1345 Bayou Road in St. Bernard and ends there for the End of the World Finish Fest with food, drinks and music. Registration starts at $50 for riders 12 and up. www.stbernardchamber.org/tdp.

CULTURE & CONCERTS

TWILIGHT AT LONGUE VUE: The fall season continues through October in Longue Vue House & Gardens’ musical series. Freddie Blue & The Friendship Circle perform on Oct. 8, Bruno Elizabetsky Oct. 15, The Freudian Slips Oct. 22, and Eight Dice Cloth Oct. 29. Individual concert tickets are $15, and $7.50 for members. All performances start at 5 p.m. at 7 Bamboo Road in New Orleans. longuevue.com.

MARINE BAND: “The President’s Own” U.S. Marine Band, under the direction of Lt. Col. Ryan Nowlin, will perform Oct. 12, 3 p.m., in the auditorium at East Jefferson High School, 400 Phlox Ave. in Metairie. The Marine Band is America’s oldest continuously active professional musical organization. Free tickets available, with a limit of four per request. Ticket holders must be

seated by 2:45 p.m. www.marineband.marines.mil/Tour.

THURSDAYS AT TWILIGHT: The

On Oct.

3 p.m., the Cristina Kaminis Quartet will perform, also at the park. On Oct. 17, 2 p.m., Patrice Fisher and Arpa with Omar Ramirez will perform at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, 400 Esplanade Ave in New Orleans. On Oct. 23, 3 p.m. www.ecoslatinos.org.

BACK TO THE RIVER: The city of Gretna will host a series of free music concerts on Fridays at 6 p.m. in October at the Amphitheater, Huey P. Long and First streets on the Mississippi River levee in Gretna. Oct. 11 will feature 90 Degrees West. Oct. 18 is the Bucktown All-Stars, and Oct. 25 is Typically Booked. www gretnala.com.

EVENINGS WITH ENRIQUE: The free concert series, held at the Helis Foundation Enrique Alferez Sculpture Garden at New Orleans Botanical Garden City Park, 5 Victory Ave in New Orleans, continues during October on Wednesdays, 5-7 p.m. On Oct. 15, Javier Gutierrez & Vivaz will perform; on Oct. 22, Patrice Fisher and Arpa with Omar Ramirez; and on Oct. 29, Papo y Son Mandao. www.thehelisfoundation.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.

MOVIES

MOVIES IN THE PARK: New Orleans Recreation Development (NORD)

Commission continues the fall 2025 movie season during October, with free, familyfriendly evenings under the stars, with screenings at dusk. Oct. 10 is “How To Train Your Dragon” at Wisner Park 4877 Laurel St. Rain site is Lyons Rec Center, 624 Louisiana Ave. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult nordc.org.

BOOKS

“INHUMANA”: The local launch of author Jeremy White’s new book will be held Oct. 9, 6-7:30 p.m., at Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St. in New Orleans. www.octaviabooks. com. “ENSHITTIFICATION”: Author Cory Doctorow will present and sign his new book on Oct. 12, 1-2:30 p.m., at Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St. in New Orleans. www.octaviabooks. com.

“REMAIN”: Author Nicholas Sparks will celebrate the launch of his new book, coauthored by M. Night Shyamalan, on Oct. 15, 6-7 p.m., at Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St. in New Orleans. Tickets are $35.74 via Eventbrite and include admission to the meet-and-greet and a signed copy of the book. www.octaviabooks.com.

FUNDRAISERS/GALAS

MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT: This fall fundraiser for the Botanical Garden features a specialty cocktail hour, threecourse meal by Zasu chef Sue Zemanick and a virtual auction. It will be held Oct. 9, 6-10 p.m., in the New Orleans Botanical Garden, 5 Victory Ave. in New Orleans. Tickets are $300. neworleanscitypark org.

BLUE HORIZON AWARDS

LOUISIANA WALKS FOR PAR-

KINSON’S: The Parkinson’s Foundation fundraiser will be held Oct. 11 at Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd. in Metairie. Registration opens at 9 a.m., and the walk begins at 11 a.m. This family-friendly community event features live music, kids’ activities and more. Walk registration is $30 adults, free for those under 12. parkinsonswalk.org.

GAMES IN THE GARDEN: Longue Vue House & Gardens will honor changemaker in education Leona Tate on Oct. 14, 5-7 p.m., during the annual celebration of the Racquet and Julep Club, created during World War II. Games for kids will be held 4-7 p.m. in the Discovery Garden at Longue Vue, 7 Bamboo Road in New Orleans. Tickets start at $25 for children and $150 for adults. Proceeds support lifelong learning programs at Longue Vue. longuevue.com. GREEN LIGHT NEW ORLEANS: Tickets are on sale for the event, Oct. 11, 7-9 p.m., with a patron hour 6-7 p.m., at Boucherie, 8115 Jeanette St. in New Orleans. Activities include art, entertainment,and a silent auction. Tickets start at $65. greenlightnola.betterworld.org.

GOLF TOURNAMENT: Registration is open for the Loyola Wolf Pack Athletics and the Alumni Association’s golf tournament, to be held Oct. 17 at the Audubon Park Golf Club, 6500 Magazine St. in New Orleans. The tournament is organized in a four-person scramble format. Players may recruit their own team or be assigned to one. Registration and lunch begin at 11 a.m., with a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. The awards ceremony and raffle drawing will be held at 4 p.m. Registration is $175 for single player and $100 for young alumni. spark. loyno.edu/golf25. YOU NIGHT RUNWAY SHOW: Tickets are on sale for the show, to be held Oct. 18, 6:30 p.m., at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center, 6400 Airline Drive in Metairie. More than 100 cancer survivors will walk the runway, followed by a celebratory dance party and reception. Tickets start at $85. Dress is cocktail or dressy attire. www.YouNightEvents.com.

DINNER: The Jefferson Parish Democratic Executive Committee will host a seated dinner with live entertainment on Oct. 10, 7 p.m., at the Pontchartrain Convention & Civic Center, 4545 Williams Blvd. in Kenner. The event will honor Marion Edwards, former Jefferson Parish councilman; keynote speaker will be former Gov. John Bel Edwards. Tickets start at $100 via Eventbrite. jpdemocrats. org.

Algiers Kiwanis Club

Elected members of the Algiers Kiwanis Club were sworn in Sept. 26 during an installation banquet. Members will hold their positions through Sept. 29, 2026. From left are Pat Bruce, president; Lourdes Moran, president-elect; Linda Leger, secretary; David Knox, treasurer; and Bobbie Whiddon, immediate past president. Not pictured is Evans Thibodeaux, vice president.

CORPORATE CLASSIC 5K: Registration is open for the 45th annual 5K held by the YMCA of Greater New Orleans and the Crescent City Classic on Nov. 8, 8 a.m., in New Orleans City Park’s Practice Track, 12 Palm Drive in New Orleans. The Corporate Classic 5K serves as the only 5K qualifier for the Crescent City Classic 10k. All donations will benefit the YMCA Adult Literacy Program. www.ymcaneworleans. org. HOT DISH 2025: Tickets are on sale for a poolside evening under the stars on Oct. 22, 6:30-9 p.m., at Paradigm Gardens, 1131 S. Rampart St. in New Orleans. Hosted by Les Dames d’Escoffier New Orleans, the fundraiser is in support of the chapter’s Leading from the Heart Awards. Craft cocktails and food are from a lineup of local culinary stars, plus an auction. Tickets are $100, $150 for early-entry patron party at 5:30 p.m. lesdamesnola.org. ROLLIN’ FOR REPRODUCTIVE JUSTICE: Women With a Vi-

sion’s fundraiser is on Oct. 30, 6 p.m., at Airline Skate Center, Inc., 6711 Airline Drive in Metairie. The Halloween-themed event will benefit WWAV’s Reproductive Justice Program and is open to ages 18 and older. Tickets start at $17.85 via Eventbrite. wwav-no.org. NEW ORLEANS JAZZ MUSEUM IMPROVISATIONS GALA: The fundraiser will be held at the museum, 400 Esplanade Ave. in New Orleans, on Dec. 6, 7-11 p.m. The event will feature auctions, exhibitions, cuisine, craft cocktails and more. Live entertainment includes Kermit Ruffins and James Andrews & the Crescent City All-Stars. Advance tickets start at $125; patron tickets available via Eventbrite. nolajazzmuseum.org/ gala.

MEETINGS

NATIONAL ACTIVE AND RE TIRED FEDERAL EMPLOY

The Vernon L. Landry Chapter 1398 of NARFE will hold its monthly meeting and lun cheon on Oct. 8, beginning at

11 a.m., in the Sicilian Room at Rocky and Carlo’s Restaurant & Bar, 613 W. St. Bernard Highway in Chalmette. All active and retired federal and postal employees are invited. Pamela.e.mark1953@gmail. com.

EAST JEFFERSON GENERAL HOSPITAL AUXILIARY: The group will hold its membership meeting Oct. 9, 2 p.m., at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave. in Metairie.

CLASSES LEARNING BEFORE LUNCH:

The Oct. 9 meeting topic will be “New Orleans Goes to War, 1917-18,” led by Brian Altobello, a semi-retired educator and author of “Whiskey, Women, and War.” The program will be held at UNO’s Homer L. Hitt Alumni eshore Drive in New Orleans, beginning at a.m. with coffee and pasesentation begins a.m. Annual membership is $25 per person, $30 double or a $5 donation per event. www learningbeforelunch.com.

TRADITIONAL WEST AFRICAN