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JEFFERSON • NEW ORLEANS • PLAQUEMINES • RIVER PARISHES • ST. BERNARD THENEWORLEANSADVOCATE.COM
Special needs advocate retires after 35 years BY JANE PIC ADAMS
Special to The Advocate A local parent who helped form an advocacy group for autism and later, special needs recreation programs in Jefferson parish, has retired. Peggie Massaro has been involved with the Alternative Program of the Jefferson Parish Recreation Department for individuals with disabilities and special needs for 35 years — first as a contract worker, then as special programs supervisor. She retired in December, leaving a program that she helped develop and nurture from its infancy. Massaro, whose youngest son was diagnosed with autism when he was 4, learned through
Eva Jacob Barkoff AROUND JEFFERSON
8th Family Gras Festival kicks off Friday in Metairie As the first weekend of parades kicks off this weekend in Metairie, so does the eighth annual Family Gras Festival, which will feature several well-known local and national musicians. Located on Veterans Memorial Boulevard between North Causeway Boulevard and Severn Avenue, Family Gras hours are 5:30 p.m. Friday until the Krewe of Excalibur arrives about 8 p.m., which will be followed by the debut of the Krewe of Athena. On Saturday, Family Gras hours are 11 a.m. until Krewe of Caesar arrives about 8 p.m.; and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. No parades are scheduled Sunday. Headlining Friday will be Allen Toussaint, as well as Nola SuperGroup, which features Chuck Credo IV, John “Papa” Gros, Chad Gilmore, Brian Stoltz, Cass Faulconer, Mark Mullins and Craig Klein. On Saturday, musicians include So Long, Storyland, Foreigner’s Lou Gramm, Cowboy Mouth, Becky G and The Beach Boys. And on Sunday, performers will be Remedy, Creole String Beans, Amanda Shaw, Easton Corbin and LeAnn Rimes. In addition to the music, there will be food, an arts and crafts market and activities for children. Admission is free, but for those wanting to get a better view, Royal Pass tickets are available for $99 a person. It includes premium stagelevel and front-of-stage viewing, artist meet and greets as available, VIP backstage catering and private restroom accommodations. For more information, go to the Jefferson Convention and Visitors Bureau website www.experiencejefferson. com or call (504) 731-7083. The Krewe of Excalibur and the new Krewe of Athena roll at 7 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. respectively, Friday. Athena, the first predominantly African-American, all-female äSee JEFFERSON, page 4G
advocating for his education, medical treatment and numerous therapies of the need for additional stimulation for these children once their school day and school year ended. She and five other parents with children diagnosed with autism from Orleans, Jefferson, St. Tammany, St. Bernard and St. Charles parishes joined in 1976 to start a summer program at Temple Sinai on St. Charles Avenue. These parents, working together for their children, were the nucleus for the foundation of the Autism Society of Greater New Orleans. Massaro took classes to become certified in aerobics, arts and crafts and dance, and became involved with other summer programs for indi-
viduals with disabilities. When she joined the JPRD in 1979, she brought her ideas, dedication and expertise to a fledging idea — to provide after-school activities for children with disabilities through the recreation department. She began with offering aerobic exercise. As the response from parents increased, crafts, cooking and therapeutic art classes were added. Massaro developed a summer day camp that has grown into three different groups offering age-appropriate activities for children, youth and adults. Line-dancing and adaptive karate was offered for the teen and young adult age group. The adaptive karate class, one of the first in the country, gave
a demonstration at the 1990 Youth Congress Convention of the National Down Syndrome Congress annual convention in Memphis, Tennessee. It was a huge success. Ed and Lynn Delaney, whose son, John, was the youngest in the class, said, “This class gave John self-confidence. He continued in the adaptive class, then was able to attend regular classes and worked towards his black belt. It was a wonderful experience.” “Looking back on those early days,” Massaro said, “I knew that all disabilities should be included. Even though my son could not attend because of his uncontrollable actions, I want-
BIG WHEELS
“I wanted everyone to be involved, stimulated and leave each day having learned something.” PEGGIE MASSARO, special needs advocate Photo provided by Gold Coast Skydivers
Peggie Massaro skydives with tandem diver Martin Swords. äSee RETIRES, page 4G Massaro recently retired and is pursuing her ‘bucket list.’
Max, left, and Mike Alford, right, and Paul Frommeyer, center, from River Ridge, came to the Monster Jam.
Larger-than-life trucks take Monster Jam to new heights More than 50,000 fans came to see the Monster Jam on Saturday at the MercedesBenz Superdome. Trucks included Grave Digger the Legend, World Champion Max-D and Overkill Evolution. A Pit Party was held earlier in the day to see the trucks that run approximately 12 feet tall and about 12 feet wide. Monster Jam trucks are custom-designed machines that sit atop 66-inch-tall tires and weigh a minimum of 10,000 pounds. The trucks can fly up to 125 to 130 feet (a distance greater than 14 cars side by side) and up to 35 feet in the air. Tickets are already on sale for the 2016 Monster Jam.
Advocate staff photos by MATTHEW HINTON
Tom and ‘Little’ Tom Hornwell, 6, of Independence, joined others who packed the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans to see the Monster Jam with its many monster trucks, including Zombie, with a walk-around party in the afternoon and races Saturday evening.
NOMA hours adjusted during Carnival season open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 14 — the It’s no news that City Park is a natural day of the Endymion Parade — and treasure and that tens of thousands will be closed on Mardi Gras, Feb. of manmade treasures are housed 17. at the heart of the park. The New Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 6 Orleans Museum of Art at One Colp.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 10 lins Diboll Circle was dedicated on a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday; and 11 a.m. March, 22, 1911. It was originally to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The named for Isaac Delgado, who museum is closed on Monday. Visigave $150,000 to the City Park Imtors must arrive at least 45 minutes provement Association to build the THROW ME before closing time museum. Winter, spring, summer and fall, SOMETHIN’ Here’s some good news: admisLYNNE sion is free on Wednesday for Louithe fine arts institution we call JENSEN siana residents, and you can’t beat NOMA welcomes visitors. This month, the museum will adjust its hours during the Carnival season. It will äSee THROW ME, page 4G
300 years of parish history depicted in 130-foot mural ment of the scenes. From left to right, the scenes depict the Native AmeriMore than 300 years of history in cans; the arrival of the explorers St. Charles Parish is depicted in a and Germans; Cajuns and hunting, new mural recently dedicated by the trapping and fishing; the Louisiana St. Charles Museum and Historical Purchase; the 1811 Slave Revolt; sugar refining; Civil War; and public Association. The 130-foot mural is located on education, churches and industry. It the side of Cashio’s Food Villa, 13572 ends with the last of the St. Charles River Road, in Destrehan. According ferries and the building of the Hale to the Historical Association, the site Boggs Bridge. Beneath the mural is was selected because it is located in a timeline that lists the dates for each the “Mile of History” corridor, which scene. “I love to drive by and see people runs from Van’s Lane to Destrehan pulled up in their cars, gazing at the Plantation. Mural artist Hans Geist, of Gray, mural and studying it. It’s a frequent worked with the Historical Association members in deciding the placeäSee MURAL, page 4G
Advocate staff report
2G F Thursday, February 5, 2015 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate
community Eight men and two women in the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office reserve division graduated an 80-hour course in basic law enforcement on Jan. 15. At the graduation are, first row, from left, reserve division members Harold Larter, Dennis Trocchiano, Tanya Palazzalo, Melissa Wickboldt and Michael Bendich and Dep. Eric Eillers, of the community relations division; second row, reserve deputies Ray Tauzier, Edward Manint and Raul Vallecillo; Maj. Mark Poche, commander of the special operations division which includes reserves; reserve Michael Chutz; head of training Maj. David DiMaggio; reserve Simon Gonzales; Sheriff James Pohlmann; reserve Capt. Joe Ricca; and Capt. Charles Borchers, who heads the reserve division. Photo provided by STEVE CANNIZARO/St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office
Chalmette parade marks 10th for Knights of Nemesis The Knights of Nemesis will celebrate a decade of parading for Carnival in St. Bernard Parish when the parade hits the streets of Chalmette at 1 p.m. Saturday. This year’s parade will feature 20 floats, 23 marching units and 350 riders. Picou Reigning as Royal Knight is Donald Picou, and Goddess Nemesis is Kayla Tarva. Celebrity Knights for this year’s parade Tarva are the Saints Superfans: Da Pope, Elvis, Whistle Monster, Halo Saint, Mac the Quack and Soul Saint. For information, call Billy Showalter at (504) 583-3998 or visit knightsofnemesis.org.
Free tax preparation help
Loyola University’s College of Law is partnering with the Community Center of St. Bernard to offer free income tax preparation services and electronic filing services through its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. Sessions will be held at the Community Center, 1111 LeBeau St. in Arabi, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the following Saturdays: Feb. 7, 21 and 28, and March 14, 21 and 28. No appointment is needed; however, residents are requested to arrive by 12:30 p.m. to ensure completion of their tax returns by 2 p.m. In order to receive assistance, taxpayers are reminded to bring photo identification and Social Security cards for each person included on their tax returns, as well as any W-2
Photo provided by AARP Chapter 3926
AARP Pakenham Chapter 3926 recently installed its 2015 officers and board members. They are, from left, George Virga, president; Jack Muller, vice president; Dody Bayard, treasurer; and Carolyn Constance, secretary. lissa Wickboldt. Larter and Vallecillo received the group’s “Always There Award,’’ which is named in honor of Deputy Sheriff Sgt. Johnny Huff, now deceased, who started as a St. Bernard reserve deputy in the 1980s Photo provided by the St. Bernard BPW and became a full-time officer in 1995. Claudette Reuther, third from left, was given the 2014 Louise B. Gorbaty Golden Circle Award Borchers is accepting apby the St. Bernard Business and Professional Women’s Club. With Reuther are past BPW plications for the reserve divipresidents, from left, Tracy Petruccelli, Paula Hope, Lauren Gibson, Mary Petruccelli, Deborah sion from St. Bernard Parish Keller, Adele Foles and Suzanne Sweeney. residents who have a clean police record and would like to serve their community. forms, 1099 forms, Social Seincludes the ride on the float 301-1500. Borchers can be reached curity statements and all other and insurance, official parade Men’s basketball league at (504) 278-7628 for further tax documents. princess T-shirt, rhinestone information; applicants will For information, call (504) tiara, custom printed sash, The St. Bernard Parish Rec861-5668. Loyola’s VITA Procustom heritage medallion and reation Department is starting be directed to fill out further paperwork. gram is affiliated with the admission to the presentation a men’s basketball league. To apply for the reserve diviAsset Building Coalition of dinner. To register a team, call John sion, an applicant must: live Southeast Louisiana and the For information, contact Stogner at (504) 810-3074. in St. Bernard Parish; be able American Bar Association. Mary O’Neil at (504) 638-4476 Sheriff’s reserve graduates to pass a background check or mary_oneil@bellsouth.net. Irish Italian Islenos parade and a drug screen; be at least Sponsorships for the Official During a Jan. 15 ceremony, 21 years old; and have a high eight men and two women Spaces are still available for “III” Parade T-shirts also are school diploma or GED. available. Prices for sponsors from the St. Bernard Sherthose interested in riding in to be featured on the back of iff’s Office’s reserve division this year’s St. Bernard Irish St. Bernard BPW the parade shirt range in price graduated an 80-hour basic Italian Islenos Parade, set to from $100 to $1,000. For inforlaw enforcement training roll in St. Bernard Parish on The past presidents of the St. mation, call (504) 655-7555 or program. April 12 at noon. Bernard Business and Professend email to iiiparade@att.net. The reserve division, headed sional Women’s Club recently Riders will toss approxiby Capt. Charles Borchers, mately 300,000 pounds of proselected Claudette Reuther as who is also head of community the recipient of the 2014 Louduce from more than 40 floats, Andrew Jackson crafts show relations for the Sheriff’s Ofand there will be 30 marching ise B. Gorbaty Golden Circle Crafters are needed for Anunits. Award. drew Jackson Middle School’s fice, is now up to nearly 30 members. For information, call Chad Gorbaty started this award annual crafts show set from Those reserve division mem- to honor a club member who O’Neil at (504) 655-7555 or 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 21 at bers who underwent the reDanny O’Neil at (504) 655was not a board member and the school, 201 Eighth St. in cent training are: Tanya Palaz- has given time to the commu7553. Chalmette. zalo, Michael Bendich, Raul The parade also is looking nity and for the club throughBooths are $50 or $60, defor young ladies between out the year. pending on whether electricity Vallecillo, Simon Gonzales, the ages of 11-18 to ride on is needed. Each vendor will be Michael Chutz, Harold Larter, Tourist Commission officers Edward Manint, Dennis Trocthe 2015 Princess Float. For provided with one table. chiano, Ray Tauzier and Me$125, the princess experience For information, call (504) The St. Bernard Tourist
Carnival can be scary, dangerous for pets The biggest party in New Orleans is gearing up, as the first big weekend of Carnival parades is here. While Carnival time is exciting for humans, it can be stressful for animals. As many head out this weekend to enjoy the fesANIMAL tivities, consider RESCUE leaving the pets TRACI at home. HOWERTON The loud noises of the sirens and marching bands can frighten many animals. Even if a dog is not bothered by the sounds, the crowds can be overwhelming and the potential to lose a pet is greater when there are hundreds of people around. Those who live on the parade route and have guests over may want to consider creating a quiet retreat for pets during the festivities. For example, a bedroom with their crate and favorite toys can allow them to feel safe if the party gets too noisy. Also, be aware of the foot
Even if a dog is not bothered by the sounds, the crowds can be overwhelming and the potential to lose a pet is greater when there are hundreds of people around. traffic going in and out of the front door and make sure no one accidently lets a pet escape. While many pet owners are mindful of where their animals are when the door is open, their guests may not be pet owners nor as cautious. If the party is going to be too overwhelming for pets, make arrangements for them to stay with a family member or board them to avoid all the possible negative scenarios. While dogs are not allowed on the regular parade routes, there are still opportunities for dog lovers to enjoy parades set up especially for canines and their human families. One of the biggest canine parades in New Orleans is rolling this weekend. This Sunday, the Mystic Krewe of Barkus, the only officially licensed Mardi Gras krewe by and for canines, will take to the streets of the French Quarter for the 23rd year. This
year’s theme is “Bark Wars: Return of the K-9.” This parade is fun for all, even those without four-legged family members. All proceeds from Barkus benefit animal organizations in New Orleans and the Gulf South area. To register a dog for the parade or for more information, visit barkus.org.
Events
BARKUS: The preparade pawty for the Mystic Krewe of Barkus will begin at 10:30 a.m. Sunday at Armstrong Park, 701 N. Rampart St., New Orleans. The parade will roll at 2 p.m. For information, visit barkus.org. CRITTER CINEMA: An overnight Valentine’s Day Critter Cinema extravaganza will be held from 6 p.m. Feb. 14 to 9 a.m. Feb. 15 at the Louisiana SPCA, 1700 Mardi Gras Blvd., New Orleans. Animal-loving, pizzaeating, movie-watching kids ages 5 to 10 will play with pup-
pies and kittens and enjoy a G-rated critter movie, crafts, games and more. Participants should bring a sleeping bag, pillow, toothbrush and PJs. The cost is $55 per child, and advance registration is required. To register, call (504) 368-5191, ext. 207, or email erica@la-spca.org. For more information, visit www. la-spca.org/crittercinema. 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, no-kill shelter. Contact ARNO at animalrescuecolumn@gmail.com, visit www. animalrescueneworleans.org or call its recorded information line at (504) 571-1900.
Photo provided by ARNO
Marco is smart and highspirited and gets along with other dogs. He is eager to please, and if you want a dog you can train to do agility, he may be the one. He was rescued from a high-kill shelter after being found as a stray. The adoption fee is $200 and includes neutering, up-todate vaccines, microchip and heartworm treatment. For information, send email to adoptfromarno@yahoo.com.
Commission recently named its new officers for 2015. They are: Wanda Alcon, chairman; Gayle Buckley, vice chairman; Lena Nunez, treasurer; and Lauren Gibson and Claire Henderson, secretaries. The Tourist Commission PARISH works closely LINES with Katie Tomasseo, St. Ber- KIM GRITTER nard Office of Tourism director, and her staff to promote tourism, advertise special events, and participate in activities in St. Bernard.
AARP chapter installation
AARP Pakenham Chapter 3926 recently installed its 2015 officers and board members. They are: George Virga, president; Jack Muller, vice president; Dody Bayard, treasurer; and Carolyn Constance, secretary. The club meets on the fourth Saturday of the month from January through November at the Council on Aging, 8201-A W. Judge Perez Drive, Chalmette. For information, call Virga at (504) 278-1367. Kim Gritter writes about people, places and events in St. Bernard Parish. She can be reached at parishlines@gmail. com.
CASA Jefferson names two to leadership posts Advocate staff report The new leaders of CASA Jefferson are Executive Director Rosana Gonzalez and Development Director Allison Craig. Gonzalez has been involved with the CASA program for nearly seven years and brings experience and program knowledge to the executive director position, in which she is responsible for the day-to-day leadership of the organization. Gonzalez will manage staff, develop and oversee programming and support the 90 volunteer advocates who are the voice for abused and neglected children who are in the Jefferson Parish court system. In the newly created position of development director, Craig will work to increase CASA Jefferson’s fundraising and visibility. The mission of CASA Jefferson is to break the cycle of child abuse and neglect through volunteers advocating for safe, nurturing and permanent homes for foster children. For information or to volunteer, visit www.casajefferson. com or call the main office at (504) 533-8757.
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community
Mardi Gras parades to affect library hours
Cookies & Cocktails to benefit Girl Scouts Advocate staff report Girl Scouts Louisiana East has chosen cookie-sales season for a Night in Emerald City fundraising gala to be held at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, at Harrah’s New Orleans. The Cookies & Cocktails gala will feature appetizers, desserts and cocktails inspired by Girl Scout Cookies. There will be a silent auction and music from Groovy 7. Tickets are available at www. gsle.org or at the council offices, 841 S. Clearview Parkway, in Jefferson. Tickets to the gala are $60 for an individual or $100 for a couple. A patron party will begin at 6:30 p.m.; tickets to the patron party as well as the gala are $75. All proceeds will go to fund programs for Girl Scouts throughout southeast Louisiana.
Photo provided by Girl Scouts Louisiana East
Girl Scouts Elise Segura and Cecilia Herzog dressed as boxes of Girl Scout Samoas and Girl Scout Thin Mints at a Cookie Rally put on by Service Unit 435 at St. Pius X School in New Orleans. Girls participated in cookie box relay races, a safety booth game show, cookie tasting, a photo booth, as well as skits about safety during the Girl Scout Cookie Sale.
Dirty Coast helps out N.O. public libraries
series featuring Broadway musicals, “Curtain Up! Light the Lights!” from 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5. This month’s program will feature “Broadway from 1980-1990: The Birth of the Mega Musical & the Emergence of Disney.” Come learn about the history of such great shows as “Les Misérables,” “Dreamgirls,” “Into the Woods,” “Sunset Boulevard” and “The Phantom of the Opera” as well as the emergence of Walt Disney’s entry into Broadway, the blockbuster musicals of Andrew Lloyd Webber, and the continued importance of Stephen Sondheim. Light refreshments will be served and limited parking in the library staff parking lot adjacent to the Main Library will be available. BLACK HISTORY PROGRAMS: In celebration of Black History Month, the library has a full schedule of events focusing on black history for children,
teens and adults. Scheduled programs and events include talks by author Keith Medley and poet Maurice Ruffin, genealogy workshops, a teen acting competition, storytelling by Luther Grey, Donald Lewis and Brother Roscoe, and much more. To see the full schedule of Black History Month programs and events, visit new orleanspubliclibrary.org. ONLINE LEARNING: The library now offers hundreds of highly interactive, instructor-led online courses that are focused on professional development, technology skills and personal enrichment. The six-week courses are taught entirely online by instructors, and new sessions begin every month. To see what courses are offered and to learn more, visit neworleanspubliclibrary.org. Charles Brown is the executive director of the New Orleans Public Library. For more information, visit new orleanspubliclibrary.org.
Metairie library offers a series of 15 genealogy seminars
Advocate staff report Local T-shirt purveyor Dirty Coast has partnered with the New Orleans Public Library for its nonprofit for 2015. The group recently debuted the newly designed “New Orleans is Okay in My Book” Tshirt. The design is “a fun take on some of the classics written in or about our great city,” Dirty Coast creative director Blake Haney said. It is an example of how Dirty Coast “creates a unique line of T-shirts that proclaim local identity of New Orleans and are guaranteed to strike a conversation. “We felt this was a natural collaboration. The New Orleans Public Library is such a champion for the rich history and bright progress of the city of New Orleans. This will be a great way to shine light on the wonderful work they are doing in and for New Orleans.” Each month throughout the year, Dirty Coast will donate
Many libraries will be closed or closing early this week due to their proximity to Mardi Gras parade routes. Closures for Feb. 6-11 include: n Friday, the Main Library, Martin Luther King Library, and Central City @ THE Library will all LIBRARY close at 4 p.m. CHARLES n Saturday, the BROWN Latter Library, Children’s Resource Center Library and Algiers Regional Library will be closed all day, and all other libraries will close at 2 p.m. n Sunday, all libraries will be closed all day. n Wednesday, the Latter Library will close at 2 p.m., and all other libraries will close at 4 p.m. CONCERT AND LECTURE SERIES: The Main Library presents the third installment of the popular concert and lecture
Photo provided by Dirty Coast
Librarians, from left, Seale Paterson, Adrione Domino and Jason Johnson, from the Main Branch library, model the newly designed ‘New Orleans is Okay in My Book’ T-shirts that are part of a yearlong partnership between Dirty Coast and the New Orleans Public Libraries. 20 percent of all sales in-store and online on the 20th of each month. “We are very excited that Dirty Coast has selected the New Orleans Public Library as their 20-on-20 partner for 2015,” said Charles Brown, executive director and city librarian with the New Orleans Public Library. “This partnership is
such a fun way for the library to receive some much-needed financial support and to gain some much-needed awareness of all of the great things our 14 locations have to offer.” The T-shirts are available at www.dirtycoast.com or at the company’s locations: 5631 Magazine St., (504) 324-3745; or 329 Julia St., (504) 324-6459.
Lakeview Shepherd’s Jump, Jive and Swing gala will have a ’40s theme costume of the era. Lakeview Shepherd Center has Sponsorships are available for been a venue for senior wisdom, the Jump, Jive & Swing gala for talent and creativity for 38 years. It offers painting, clay, knitthe Lakeview Shepherd Center, which will be held from 6 p.m. ting, crocheting, quilting, tai chi, to 10 p.m. Saturday, April 18, at yoga, bridge, mahjong, converSchoen’s, 3827 Canal St., New sational French, exercise, dancing, and the challenge of Wii Orleans. The Pfister Sisters will per- games and cultural outings. Members receive computer form ’40s-style big-band tunes, and a prize will be given for best assistance and laptop lending is Advocate staff report
ongoing. Healthy daily meals served family-style make the center a place where people create friendships and stay strong. For information, visit www.lscnola. org. Tickets to the gala are $50. For information on sponsorships, contact Jeannie at (504) 484-0885 or lakeviewshepherd@ gmail.com.
Sal Serio, curator of the American-Italian Research Center at the East Bank Regional Library in Metairie, will lead a series of 15 genealogical seminars for beginners and intermediates during the spring. JP LIBRARY The sessions, LAGNIAPPE from 1 p.m. CHRIS to 2:30 p.m. SMITH Wednesdays at 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., are designed as introductions to basic genealogical research. They are free and open to the public. The courses will focus on the following genealogical issues: n March 4: Introduction to family research and the different types of forms used n March 11: Vital records: birth, baptism, marriage, death and other types n March 18: Cemeteries and obituaries n March 25: Census: 1910 and 1920 n April 1: Immigration and ship manifests n April 8: Latter-Day Saints and Ancestry.com websites n April 22: Using libraries
for research n April 29: Archdiocese records with guest Jack Belsom n May 6: German research with guest Earl Sundmaker n May 13: African-American research with guest Gaynell Brady n May 20: French research with guest Augusta Elmwood n May 27: Italian research with Sal Serio n June 3: Irish research with guest Marguerite Scully n June 10: Military research n June 17: How genealogy and family research solved a 70-year World War II mystery. HELPING IMMIGRANTS: A program for community leaders who want to help Latino families seeking legal status will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at the East Bank Regional Library. Participants will learn to help immigrant families get the correct information and protect them from being scammed. The program will be presented in English and Spanish, and is free and open to the public. LAW SEMINAR: Attorney Ronald Morrison will explain various points of law and provide legal guidance to those in need at 6:30 p.m. Monday,
Feb. 9, at the East Bank Regional Library. Free of charge and open to the public. ‘DOCTOR WHO’ VIDEO CLUB: Fans of the British sciencefiction television program will meet at 7 p.m., Monday, Feb. 9, at the East Bank Regional Library. OLD METAIRIE STORY TIME: Children ages 3 to 7 gather for story time at 10:30 a.m. every Tuesday at the Old Metairie Library, 2350 Metairie Road, Metairie. HARVEY STORY TIME: Children ages 3 to 7 gather for story time at 10:30 a.m. every Monday at the West Bank Regional Library, 2751 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey. The library also hosts family night at 5:30 p.m. every Tuesday. FICTION WRITERS’ GROUP: The West Bank Fiction Writers’ Group will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Feb. 10 and 24, at the Westwego Library, 635 Fourth St., Westwego. The group is free and open to the public.
locations, visit entergy.com/eitc. LAKEVIEW GOLDEN COMMUNITY LUNCHEON: Arthur Johnson and the Chosen Few will perform rock and blues during the Lakeview Golden Community Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20, at the Lakeview Shepherd Center at the Community Church Unitarian Universalist of New Orleans, 6690 Fleur de Lis Drive, New Orleans. The suggested donation is $5. To make a reservation, call (504) 484.0885.
The musical performance is funded by a grant from the New Orleans Musicians Assistance Foundation. The Lakeview Shepherd Center helps older adults remain vital and independent, promotes positive aging and celebrates senior wisdom and talent. It is open five days a week from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and provides all services for $20 a month. For information, stop by or visit www.lakeview shepherdcenternola.org.
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.
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS SIERRA CLUB SPEAKER: The Orleans Sierra Club will host Darryl Malek-Wiley from the Sierra Club. He will speak about the issues the local Sierra Club Office is engaged in and how to volunteer and get involved. Topics include the Green army, fracking on the north shore and more. The free program will be held Sunday, Feb. 8 with refreshments at 6:30 p.m. and the talk at 7 p.m. in the Dominion Auditorium at the Audubon Zoo. Parking is available and the entrance is by the statue of Audubon. For information, call (504) 307-0187. FAMILIES HELPING FAMILIES: Families Helping Families of Jefferson Parish will hold a workshop from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 West Napoleon Ave., Metairie. The workshop will help families learn more about how to choose a service provider for individuals with a developmental disability. The program is free and open to the public. For more information and to register, call Bebe Bode at (504) 888-9111. LOUISIANA POET LAUREATE: A selection committee appointed by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities is seeking nominations for Louisiana’s
next poet laureate. Louisiana poet laureates include Brenda Marie Osbey, Darrell Bourque, Julie Kane and Ava Leavell Haymon, whose two-year term ends in May. Poet laureates may not serve two consecutive terms. Committee members include Miranda Restovic, interim president of the LEH; Brian Boyles, vice president of content for the LEH; Darrell Bourque, professor emeritus, University of Louisiana at Lafayette; Reggie Young, professor, University of Louisiana at Lafayette; Jack Heflin, poet and professor at the University of Louisiana at Monroe; John Biguenet, poet and playwright, Loyola University, New Orleans; and Mary Katherine Callaway, LSU Press editor, Baton Rouge. The selection committee will submit three finalists to the governor, who will choose a nominee, subject to state Senate confirmation. The deadline for nominations is Feb. 27. Nominations may be sent to Miranda Restovic, Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, 938 Lafayette St., Suite 300, New Orleans, LA 70113 or restovic@leh.org. EXTENDED FERRY HOURS: The operating hours for the Canal Street/Algiers Ferry will be extended from Friday, Feb. 6,
through Mardi Gras, Feb. 17. n Friday, Feb. 6, first trip will leave Algiers Point at 6 a.m.; last trip will leave Algiers Point at 11 p.m. n Saturday, Feb. 7, first trip will leave Algiers Point at 9 a.m.; last trip will leave Algiers Point at 11 p.m. n Sunday, Feb. 8, first trip will leave Algiers Point at 9 a.m.; last trip will leave Algiers Point at 7:30 p.m. n Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 9 and 10, first trip will leave Algiers Point at 6 a.m.; last trip will leave Algiers Point at 9:30 p.m. n Wednesday through Friday, Feb. 11 through 13, first trip will leave Algiers Point at 6 a.m.; last trip will leave Algiers Point at 11 p.m. n Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 14 and 15, first trip will leave Algiers Point at 9 a.m. and a second vessel will be put into service at 3 p.m.; last trip will leave Algiers Point at midnight. n Monday, Feb. 16, first trip will leave Algiers Point at 6 a.m. and a second vessel will be put into service at 3 p.m.; last trip will leave Algiers Point at midnight. n Tuesday, Feb. 17, first trip will leave Algiers Point at 6 a.m. and a second vessel will be put into service at 10:30 a.m.; last trip will leave Algiers
Point at 9:30 p.m. COMEDY IN WESTWEGO: Comedians J.D. Sledge, James Cusimano and Nature Boy will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Feb. 6 and 7, at Teatro Wego, 177 Sala Ave., Westwego. Admission is $15. To purchase tickets, call (504) 885-2000 or visit jpas.ticket force.com. The performances are part of the Comedy Fusion Revival Tour presented by the Jefferson Performing Arts Society. UNITED WAY HELPS WITH TAX PREP: Entergy New Orleans and the United Way of Southeast Louisiana are helping working families who qualify for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit receive average refunds of $2,500 or more through Super Tax Day events at local Volunteer Income Tax Assistance sites. Continuing throughout tax season at local VITA sites, volunteers certified by the Internal Revenue Service will help residents determine if they qualify for EITC and provide free tax preparation. The program benefits families or individuals earning $52,400 or less in 2014. New Orleans Super Tax Days include 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at Delgado Community College City Park campus. For other schedule times and
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community French Quarter Business Association inducts new board, honors advocates Advocate staff report The French Quarter Business Association recently introduced its 2015 Board of Directors and honored special French Quarter advocates. The installation and awards dinner was held at the Royal Sonesta Grand Ballroom with 233 attendees representing businesses around the French Quarter. Among the attendees were guest speaker Sidney D. Torres, Councilman-at-Large Jason Rogers Williams, District C Councilwoman Nadine Ramsey, District D Councilman Jared Brossett, District E Councilman James Austin Gray and past Plaquemines Parish President Billy Nungesser. Also in attendance was FQBA President Robert Watters and Vice Presidents Timothy Spratt and Nancy Tusa. Businesses represented were Acme Oyster House, Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights, Creole Cuisine Restaurant Concepts, First Bank & Trust, French Quarter Festivals, Inc., Kirkendoll Management, “NCIS: New Orleans,” Patio Planters and Valentino Hotels. The 2015 officers are President Robert Watters, RCI Entertainment LA; Vice President
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that. Other times, the cost for nonmembers is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and university students with valid ID, and $6 for children 7 to 17. Children 6 and younger enter free of charge. Annual museum memberships start at $60, and that’s a bargain. Admission discounts are available for adult groups of 10 or more who make reservations by calling (504) 658-4128. Docent-guided group tours also are available by calling at
Photo provided by JOSE GARCIA
At the recent French Quarter Business Association’s installation and awards dinner are, seated from left, Marci Schramm, Kathleen Wilkin, Vice President Nancy Tusa and Gene Sausse; and standing, Vice President Timothy Spratt, Zeid Ammari, Scott Griffith, Jorge Henriquez, President Robert Watters, Chairman Jeremy DeBlieux, Tony Viloria, C.E. Adler and Treasurer Reed Neelis. Timothy Sprat, Kirkendoll Management; Vice President Nancy Tusa, What’s New Gifts & Home Accessories; Secretary/Treasurer Reed Neelis, First Bank & Trust; at-large C.E. Adler, Adler’s Jewelry; at-large Zeid Ammari, Creole Cuisine Restaurant Concepts; and Chairman Jeremy DeBlieux, Acme Oyster House. The 2015 Board of Directors are Neil Anderson, Sydney Anderson, Louis Bartels, Drew Bevolo, Louis Faust,
Pat McDonald Fowler, Bryan Francher, Scott Griffith, Jorge Henriquez, John O’Brien, Angela Rowell, Emily Schmidt Liuzaa, Marci Schramm, Frank Stansbury, Gene Sausse, Anna Sumas, Adrienne Thomas, Tony Viloria, Shawn Walsh and Kathleen Wilkin. The evening’s master of ceremonies was Nancy Parker, of Fox 8 News. This was her fifth year in this role. The Fleur-de-lis Award, presented annually to individuals
for their extraordinary dedication to the historic neighborhood, was awarded to Bob Simms. Simms was recognized for his involvement with the 8th District New Orleans Police Department to help improve public safety in the French Quarter. The Ambassador Award, which recognizes the member organization that goes above and beyond to assist the association in achieving its goals, was given to Creole Cuisine Restaurant Concepts.
least two weeks in advance. Located next to the museum, more than 60 works of art grace the 5-acre Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. Admission is free for all and hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The sculpture garden also will be closed on Mardi Gras, Feb. 17. More than a museum, NOMA offers a variety of activities for adults and children, including a book club, movie night and summer art camp. Camp registration for members opens Wednesday Feb. 18 and
general registration opens Wednesday, March 4. For information, visit noma. org/ or call NOMA at (504) 6584100. EARLY ARTS LEARNING AT NOMA: A guided, hands-on gallery experience for children ages 1-2 and their parents, teachers and caregivers will be offered at 1 p.m. Tuesdays through April 21, except for Mardi Gras, Feb. 17, at the New Orleans Museum of Art. The Baby Arts Play! program is presented by the Louisiana Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts. Teaching artists will
show how to integrate music, movement and drama into everyday playtime to foster children’s development. The program fee applies only to adults, who may bring a maximum of two children each. The cost is $5 for NOMA members, $5 plus admission for others, or $55 for the entire series. For information or to register, call (504) 658-4128 or email education@noma.org. Lynne Jensen writes about New Orleans community events and people. Contact her at jensencolumn@gmail. com.
NORDC to host free film screening Friday head in the parking lot, found In the 1980s, New Orleans by following Barataria Boulenative Dr. George J. McKenna vard all the way into the park or III famously transformed Los take the complimentary shuttle Angeles’ gang-riddled from Behrman Rec Center, 2529 Gen. Meyer Ave., George Washington departing at 11:30 a.m. Prep High School into a successful college AQUATICS prep school. Today, the SWIM LESSONS AND school’s mission is to CLASS REGISTRATION: “ensure that each stuNow through Feb. 14 for dent, upon graduation, ages 6 months and older. will possess the acaThe Spring 1 session demic and social skills FUN WITH begins Feb. 15. Classes including water babies, needed to think critical- NORDC swim lessons, aqua ly, function in a diverse VICTOR fitness and lifeguard society and participate RICHARD III classes. as informed responsible NORDC LIFEGUARD PREcitizens prepared for leaderREQUISITE SKILLS CHALLENGE ship in their community, the CLASS: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday; world and all areas of life.” and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. March 2, 16 NORDC will host a free film and 30, and April 13 and 27, Joe W. Brown Pool, 5601 Read Blvd. screening of the compelling For people ages 15 and older “George McKenna Story,” who are interested in becomstarring Denzel Washington ing a lifeguard. Preregistration as the inspirational educator is suggested. Free. For details, who gave his students hope, visit www.nola.gov/nordc or success and pride, from 5:30 call (504) 658-3021. p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday at ATHLETICS the Treme Rec Center, 900 N. TRACK AND FIELD REGISTRAVillere St. Following the film, TION: Now through Feb. 16 for George’s brother, Dr. Dwight boys and girls ages 5-14. The McKenna, founder of the season begins March 21. For George and Leah McKenna playground locations and regMuseum of African Ameriistration details, visit nola.gov/ can Art in New Orleans, will nordc. speak. A champion of the African-American community CULTURAL and young people, Dr. Dwight SENIOR DANCE FITNESS AND ADULT MOVEMENT CLASSES: McKenna is a local surgeon who also has a strong interest NORDC/NOBA Center for Dance offers free classes at NORDC in literacy and cultural presRecreation Centers. Register ervation. anytime. FREE FITNESS EVENT AND HEALTH SENIOR CHOIR PRACTICE: 1 SCREENING: Health in the Black p.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays, Joe W. Community from 6 p.m. to Brown Rec Center, 5601 Read Blvd. Join anytime. 8:30 p.m. Feb. 27 at Cut-Off Rec Center, 6600 Belgrade St. CASA SAMBA CLASSES: Lyons features free fitness activities Rec Center, 624 Louisiana Ave. and Treme Center, 900 N. Viland health screenings. Aclere St. For all ages. Register tivities include kemetic yoga anytime. from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.; meditation and lecture with ZachFITNESS ary Ramsey from 7 p.m. to 8 FITNESS CLASSES: Fit NOLA p.m.; diabetes blood pressure Parks offers weekly fitness at screenings from 7:30 p.m. to Taylor Park, 2600 S. Roman St.; Norwood Thompson Park, 7200 8:30 p.m.; and afro exercise Forshey St.; and St. Roch Park, from 8 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Plus, 1800 St. Roch Ave. learn about Black Girls Run, ADULT EXERCISE: For ages 18 a national running group created to combat obesity among and older, including cardio and core strengthening exercises. women in the African-Ameri- Free classes held from 5:30 p.m. can community. to 6:30 p.m., Tuesday and Thurs-
Victor N. Richard III is the chief executive officer of the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission. For more information, visit nola. gov/nordc.
OUTDOORS
Photo provided by the St. Charles Museum and Historical Association
More than 300 years of history in St. Charles Parish is depicted in a new mural by Hans Geist. The mural was recently dedicated by the St. Charles Museum and Historical Association, 13572 River Road, in Destrehan.
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the history of the parish. The Historical Association also has Continued from page 1G published a book on parish history titled “St. Charles Parish, sight, too,” association board Louisiana, a Pictorial History.” Money raised from the sale of member Marilyn Richoux said. “It makes me feel good that peo- the book as well as small grants ple are interested in the mural went to pay nearly $40,000 for the mural. There were logistical and our fascinating history.” The goal of the St. Charles Mu- problems to overcome such as a seum and Historical Association gas line that had to be moved, a is to promote preservation and special frame created to hold
the metal panels, a dumpster that was relocated, security cameras to be installed, landscaping to be completed and the installation of a dedication plaque. No public funds were used, according to board member and project chairwoman Betty Claudet. Claudet said they are happy with the selection of Geist, who has created many murals in the
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krewe in Jefferson Parish, has over 200 riders and 17 floats. Rounding out the weekend of parades will be the Krewe of Caesar, which will roll at 6 p.m. Saturday. All three parades will take the traditional Metairie route, beginning just outside Clearview Shopping Center near the corner of El Dorado Street and Houma Boulevard and heading east on Veterans. Each krewe will turn left onto Severn Avenue, proceeding down Severn and making a U-turn at 12th Street. The parades will continue on the other side of Severn and turn left back onto Veterans. The parades will continue down Veterans to Bonnabel Boulevard, turning left on Bonnabel. Proceeding down Bonnabel, the krewes will make a U-turn at Feronia Street and continue on the other side of Bonnabel before turning back on Veterans.
The parades will disband at Martin Behrman Avenue and Veterans.
Genealogical group to meet
The Jefferson Genealogical Society will hold its monthly meeting at 7 p.m. Feb. 12 at the John Calvin Presbyterian Church’s Fellowship Hall, 4201 Transcontinental Drive, Metairie. Brandi Newman is the guest speaker, and her topic will be “Louisiana Historical Land Records and their Relevance to Genealogists.” Newman, who has worked in the Historical Title Records Section of the Louisiana State Land Office since 2008, will provide information about available records on individuals who held British, French and Spanish land grants in Louisiana. She also will explain the terminology and laws essential to understanding these records and demonstrate how to access the information online from the State Land Office’s website. For more information, call Fred Wilbert at (504) 837-2034.
The Colonial Garden Club will hold its February meeting at 10:30 a.m. Monday at the Harahan home of Jean Dietzway. Club President Susan Hardeman will conduct the meeting, which will include election of officers for 2015-16. Also on the agenda is registration for the annual spring tour, which this year will be the Sculpture Garden in City Park. The event is chaired by Cindy Schalck. The guest speaker for this month’s meeting is Valerie Tang, of the New Orleans Old Rose Society. Co-hostesses are Carmen Caldes, Priscilla Cummings, Kay Ewens and Diane Richardson. Because the meeting is the week before Mardi Gras, members are asked to come in costume. Eva Jacob Barkoff writes about the people and events on the east bank of Jefferson Parish. She can be reached at ejbarkoff@gmail.com or by calling (504) 430-8053.
Houma area. She said selecting the historic scenes to depict was not easy, as the mural shows the history of the entire parish, not just events that occurred in the Mile of History. Other board members who assisted with the project include Harriet Williamson, Don Ellis, Collette Lottinger, Coy Landry, Sue Friloux, Rita Carlson and Joan Becnel.
NATURE WALK: noon, Tuesday, Couturie Forest in City Park, 1009 Harrison Ave. Meet at the trailhead for Couturie or take complimentary shuttle from Gernon Brown Rec Center, 1001 Harrison Ave., departing at 11:50 a.m. YOUNG BIRDERS ASSOCIATION: 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Feb. 14. Teen bird watching club in partnership with the Orleans Audubon Society. Meet at the Joe Madere Marsh Unit at the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, off U.S. 90 in New Orleans East. Meet just past the main entrance on the right or take the complimentary shuttle from Joe W. Brown Rec Center, 5601 Read Blvd., departing at 9:10 a.m. NATURE WALK: noon, Feb. 24, Jean Lafitte National Park Coquille Trail. Meet at the trail-
day at Treme Rec Center, 900 N. Villere St.; from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday and Wednesday at Lyons Rec Center, 624 Louisiana Ave.; 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., Monday and Wednesday at Behrman Rec Center, 2529 General Meyer Ave.; and from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday at Joe W. Brown Rec Center, 5601 Read Blvd. LINE DANCING: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays, Cut-Off Rec Center, 6600 Belgrade St. KEMETIC YOGA: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Treme Rec Center, 900 N. Villere St.
FREE AFTER-SCHOOL MEALS KIDS CAFÉ: Kids Café provides free after-school meals at several recreation centers and playgrounds in partnership with Share Our Strength. Sites are Comiskey Playground, 600 S. Jeff Davis Parkway; Cut-Off Recreation Center, 6600 Belgrade St.; Treme Recreation Center, 900 N. Villere St.; Joe W. Brown Recreation Center, 5601 Read Blvd.; Lyons Recreation Center, 624 Louisiana Ave. ; Stallings Gentilly Playground, 2700 Laperyouse St.; and Taylor Playground, 2600 S. Roman St.
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Continued from page 1G ed everyone to be involved, stimulated and leave each day having learned something.” It was not always easy. There was some resistance to having disabled children on the same playgrounds as “normal” children, but with perseverance, the program advanced. “It has also been my goal that each of them be accepted in society as individuals,” Massaro said. As participants began aging into adulthood, the Pinnacles Club was formed for ages 21 years and up to provide independent, adult activities. The “Plus 50” group are volunteers from The Arc who meet to help with various tasks such as stuffing envelopes and organizing the inventory of supplies. Life seems to have a way of adding a “curve” in the road. In 2013, Massaro was diagnosed with cancer. But that has not slowed her down.
Photo provided by LESLIE DUNN
Shown at a recent retirement celebration for Peggie Massaro of the Jefferson Parish Recreation Department Alternative Program are, from left, the 2015 Pinnacles Ball Queen Margaret Becnel, Peggie Massaro, Carolyn Pic, Rose Georgosis; Shawn Meyer, in front; and in the background, Dave Dahl, DJ for the evening. After her retirement, she started on her “bucket list” and is slowly checking each item off — the most recent was skydiving. Another is helping individuals in St. John
Parish plan a summer camp program for 2015. Massaro was honored by her co-workers at JPRD in December and recently at the Pinnacles Club annual ball.
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community Finalists chosen for Jefferson Senior center hosts party for 100th birthday Parish pitch competition Advocate staff report Five companies have been chosen to participate in a Jefferson Parish-based pitch competition during New Orleans Entrepreneur Week presented by IberiaBank, which is produced by the Idea Village. The Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission chose the five companies from more than 30 applications to the JEDCO Challenge, powered by First NBC Bank. The finalists will compete at 2 p.m. March 23 at Southport Hall, 200 Monticello Ave., New Orleans. Each company will have seven minutes to present a live pitch in front of a panel of Jefferson Parish business leaders. Entrepreneurs will be scored based upon the live
pitch, a condensed business plan submitted in advance of the competition and crowd vote. The entrepreneur with the winning pitch will receive a prize package of in-kind business services and direct capital. The finalists are: n AxoSim Technologies, which uses “nerve-on-a-chip” technology pioneered by J. Lowry Curley and Michael J. Moore to assess the neurological safety and effectiveness of a new drug early in its development. n Cook Me Somethin’ Mister, which markets a jambalaya mix based on a recipe from Jambalaya Girl Kristen Preau’s father. n InnoGenomics Technologies, which develops innovative genetic testing solutions that solve crimes and save
lives. The company is developing a liquid biopsy method to detect and monitor cancer through a minimally invasive blood test. n myMix Nutrition, an ecommerce store that allows individuals and organizations to formulate and purchase their own custom protein powder products. n Sock Spot (Pleasantree LLC), which addresses the problem of lost socks with an organizing toy rack that installs in the laundry area with suction cups. The rack is packaged with colorful character sock clips and an illustrated storybook about the adventure of a boy and his lost sock. Sock Spot teaches children order and tidiness, while saving time and money. Each purchase helps to fund autism research and family support.
Program to provide free assistance with taxes Advocate staff report Loyola University New Orleans College of Law will offer the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program to provide free tax preparation assistance for people with low to moderate incomes. The walkin sessions will take place at a new location this year, Room 112 of the Loyola College of Law building, 526 Pine St. The sessions, designed by the Internal Revenue Service, continue through April 9. The tax preparation sessions are Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Mondays and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. No sessions are scheduled Thursday, Feb. 12, through Monday, Feb. 16, due to the Mardi Gras holiday. Also, no sessions are
scheduled Thursday, April 2, through Monday, April 6, as the College of Law is closed for the Easter holidays. The program also will offer tax preparation again this year at the Community Center of St. Bernard Parish, 1111 LeBeau St., Arabi. This location serves the communities of St. Bernard Parish, New Orleans East, the Lower 9th Ward and the Bywater and Marigny areas. Taxpayers should arrive no later than noon for sessions that will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the following Saturdays: Feb. 7, 21 and 28, and March 14, 21 and 28. For information on sessions in Arabi, call (504) 281-2512 or (504) 861-5668. Taxpayers will need to bring government-issued IDs, So-
cial Security cards for every person included on the tax returns, all tax documents including W-2 and 1099 forms and Social Security statements. Please bring prior year tax returns and documents. New this year is information regarding insurance coverage as required under the Affordable Care Act. Taxpayers also will have to bring information regarding health insurance coverage for each member of their households. Loyola’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program is affiliated with the Asset Building Coalition of Southeast Louisiana and the American Bar Association. For information, call (504) 861-5668. For prerecorded directions, call (504) 861-5665.
Advocate staff report
Marion Hunter, a New Orleans resident for 75 years, turned 100 on Jan. 10. It was an occasion celebrated by her family as well as her friends at Mercy Endeavors Senior Center. The family attended Mass, followed by a second-line parade to Wisdom Reception Center for her official 100th birthday party. Mercy Endeavors Senior Center, where Hunter has been an active member for more than 10 years, celebrated with birthday cake, a bouquet of roses and a sparkling tiara. Born in Reserve, Hunter has
six children, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She has been active in many organizations throughout the years, including her 60-year membership in Ladies Auxiliary of Knights of Peter Claver and her 70-year membership at Corpus Christi Epiphany Catholic Church, where she served as a Eucharistic minister. She has participated and assisted in the Legion of Mary, Food for Families/Food for Seniors and Christmas Social Club, among others. She has been honored as Catholic Woman of the Year, received the Golden Senior Award
Photo provided by Mercy Endeavors Senior Center
Marion Hunter’s 100th birthday recently was celebrated at Mercy Endeavors Senior Center, where she likes to attend Mass, socialize and play bingo with friends. and even met President Barack Obama in 2011.
FAITH NOTES LUTHERAN LENT: St. Stephen Lutheran Church and Trinity Lutheran Church will be sharing Lent and Holy Week services. Services at St. Stephen will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 25, March 11 and March 25, preceded by dinner at 6 p.m.. Services at Trinity will be held at 7 p.m. March 4 and March 18, preceded by dinner at 6 p.m. A Maundy Thursday worship service will be held at St. Stephen at 7 p.m. April 2. A Good Friday service will be held at Trinity at 7 p.m. April 3. St. Stephen Lutheran Church is at 6336 Berkley Drive, New Orleans. Call (504) 394-4956 for information. Trinity Lutheran is at 620 Eliza St., New Orleans. Call (504) 3680411 for information. SANKOFA LENTEN REFLECTION: Black Catholics from south Louisiana will join for Sanfoka, a Lenten Day of Reflection, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28 at the St. Mary’s Academy gymnasium, 6905 Chef Menteur Highway. Cost is $15. Registration is due by Feb. 11. Guest speakers will be Arch-
bishop Gregory Aymond, of New Orleans; Bishop Shelton Fabre, of Houma-Thibodaux, the Rev. Daniel Green, of New Orleans, and Kaffy Babineaux Belvin, of Lafayette. For information, contact the Office of Black Catholics at (504) 861-6207 or visit www. obcm-no.org. LENTEN SERIES: Loyola University New Orleans’ Jesuit Center will present its 2015 Lenten Lecture Series, “Side by Side: Jesuit Saints as Lenten Companions,” a series of lectures to be held in February and March to observe Lent and to help inspire the Loyola community. All events are free and open to the public. The Rev. Ted Dziak, S.J., vice president for the Office of Mission and Ministry and director of the Jesuit Center, said this year’s series was inspired by the ever-present interest in Ignatius Loyola and Ignatian spirituality. This year, a lecture on Ignatian spirituality and the law is being offered for the College of Law community. Co-sponsored by the Alumni
Association, all events are free and will take place at Loyola. Events include: n Wednesday, Feb. 25: Ignatius Chapel, Bobet Hall, 7 p.m. “St. Ignatius: The Inspiration and the Mystic” lecture by Dziak. n Wednesday, March 4: Ignatius Chapel, Bobet Hall, 7 p.m. “St. Peter Favre: Newest Saint and co-founder,” by the Rev. Robert Gerlich, S.J., associate professor, Department of History n Wednesday, March 11: School of Mass Communication, Studio A, 7 p.m. “St. Francis Xavier: Missionary and Saint,” video presentation and discussion by the Rev. Jeremy Zipple, S.J., America magazine n Wednesday, March 18: College of Law, Room 401, Broadway Campus, 7 p.m. “Ignatian Spirituality and the Practice of Law,” by the Rev. W. Penn Dawson, S.J., visiting professor of law. For information, contact the Jesuit Center at (504) 865-2304 or the Office of Alumni Relations at (800) 798-ALUM or email alumni@loyno.edu.
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community/schools
Photo provided by Ruppel Academy
Alexander Walker and Kyle Bush, both eighth-graders at Ruppel Academy for Advanced Studies, are winners in a national writing contest sponsored by Scholastic Magazine.
Ruppel students win Scholastic magazine award Advocate staff report Alexander Walker and Kyle Bush, both eighth-graders at Ruppel Academy for Advanced Studies in Gretna, are two of five winners in a national writing contest sponsored by Scholastic Magazine. The students researched the Mary Beth Tinker story. Tinker protested the Vietnam War in 1965. Her protest land-
ed her in the principal’s office and eventually in the Supreme Court. The students were asked to compose an essay about a topic that they would be willing to stand up for the same way that Mary Beth Tinker did. Ruppel is proud to have two of the five winners in a national writing contest. For information, visit ruppel. jpschools.org.
Advocate photos by J.T. BLATTY
Case Miller, New Orleans designer and fabricator, is seen on the set of ‘The Night Market’ at the St. Roch Firehouse in New Orleans on Jan. 27.
‘The Night Market’ St. Roch Firehouse transformed into immersive theatrical, musical performance space Advocate staff report
“The Night Market” is a performance and installation written and designed by Case Miller together with Zibby Jahns presented in the
petition is underway through Jan. 30 to collect diapers and The Louise S. McGehee loose change. The school made the project School and Little Gate are participating in the Diaper Bank part of its recognition of the initiative of the Junior League Martin Luther King Jr. holiof New Orleans, which aims to day, which Congress desigprovide 90,000 diapers to help nated in 1994 as a national day families in need. A grade com- of service.
Advocate staff report
Bywater. The experimental work combined large-scale puppets, original music by Ratty Scurvics, taxidermy artist Nina Nichols and live performances. Cast members include Anais Adair, Alix ä See more photos from the installation at www. theneworleansadvocate.com.
Chapman, Matthew Chandelier, Renee Anderson, James
Goedert, Elyse Manning and Anna Young.
For a schoolwide assembly honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., members of the Junior League of New Orleans addressed girls in preschool through 12th grade about the need for help in collecting diapers for a JLNO service initiative. Louise S. McGehee is the first local school to join with the Junior League in its diaper drive. Prekindergarten girls were so excited they built a ‘diaper tower’ with part of the collection. They are, from left, Annalise Sgambato, Caroline Kramer, Ella Whisnant, Milan Wiley and Vivienne Williamson.
School collaborates on Diaper Bank initiative
that was recently
work of visual
Photo provided by JLNO
ABOVE: Case Miller adjusts one of the two large-scale puppets in the installation and performance. The puppets are a collaboration between Miller, artist Nina Nichols and James K and are voiced by Zibby Jahns and Renee Anderson. LEFT: A scene from the set of ‘The Night Market’
Visitation of Our Lady School in Marrero chooses its students of the year
Photo provided by Visitation of Our Lady School
New Orleans Charter Chapter of the Colonial Dames of America holds Charter meeting
Representing Marrero’s Visitation of Our Lady School in the statewide student of the year competition will be Kyli Rodriguez and Dylan Rogers. Kyli, a fifth-grader, is the daughter of Rickey and Jaime Rodriguez. Dylan, an eighth-grader, is the son of Steven and Shelly Rogers. They were chosen based on excellent academic achievement, standardized test scores, leadership ability and citizenship.
Marrero softball player accepts college softball scholarship
Photo provided by Academy of Our Lady Photo provided by the Colonial Dames
The New Orleans Charter Chapter of the Colonial Dames of America recently held its Charter meeting at Metairie Country Club where the special guest and speaker was the Second Vice President General Brantley Bolling Knowles, of Palm Beach, Fla. Shown are, front from left, Knowles with New Orleans Chapter President Julia French Wood; and back, Patti Millan, New Orleans Chapter Registrar Marcia Baird, Kelley Mackenroth, Allison Vencil, Secretary Emily Smith, Carter Molony, Frances Jakes and Barbara McManus.
Jenna Parker of Marrero, a senior at the Academy of Our Lady, recently accepted a scholarship to play softball for the Buccaneers of Shelton State Community College in Tuscaloosa, Ala. In the front row, from left, are her brother, Brice Parker; her mother, Anette Weisler; Jenna Parker; and her stepfather, Robbie Weisler. In the back row are Lindsey Skinner, of Shelton State, and Parker’s father, Randy Parker.
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schools SCHOOL BRIEFS Members of the Robo Girls senior robotics team at St. Mary’s Dominican High School are, front row from left, Amber Sylvain, Elise Haase, Maya Dancisak, Jade George and Meagan Froeba. Behind them are Roxanne Ardekani, Alivia Nguyen, Coach Matthew Foss, Ana Huete, Hayli Hunter, Amari McDonald, Haiden Bowling, Johanna Spooner and coaches Anjel Guitroz and Crissy Giacona. Emily Munch is also on the team.
ROBOTICS REGIONAL: The senior robotics team from St. Mary’s Dominican High School recently took the top award in the Red Stick Robotics/LSU College of Engineering VEX® Skyrise State Qualifier. Winning the Excellence Award means the team will participate in the state championship Feb. 28 at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. The Robo Girls team was the only all-girls team at the regional competition, which drew 15 other top schools in the region. Team coaches are Crissy Giacona, Matthew Foss and Anjel Guitroz. SCHOOLS EXPO SATURDAY: Representatives from more than 95 schools will be on hand for the Schools Expo being held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at the MercedesBenz Superdome. The expo is sponsored by the Parent Information Center of the Urban League of Greater New Orleans. The Schools Expo provides an opportunity for families to apply on-site to public directrun, private, charter and Catholic schools. It empowers parents to make informed school choice decisions and better
Photo provided by St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School
When the Drama Club at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School presented ‘Peter Pan’ recently, the featured performers included, from left, Elisabeth Peternostro, Abigail Donato, Camille Vincent as Tinkerbell, Connor Lewis as Peter Pan, Emma Hart and Brooke DiMaggio. The play was directed by Scott Sauber, with choreography by Allee Peck. The faculty moderator of the Drama Club is Mandi Pepiton, who performed in the show as Photo provided by St. Mary’s Dominican High School Nana, the nursemaid dog, and the crocodile that followed Captain Hook. understand the city’s changing educational landscape. In addition to schools, families will have an opportunity to visit more than 80 resource providers including LSU School of Dentistry, Tulane Drop-In Center and Daughters of Charity, all offering health and wellness services. In partnership with Total Community Action, Inc., this year’s expo will include an early childhood provider section featuring more than 30 high-quality early care and educational programs serving children from birth to 5 years old. To help inspire youth innovation, the 2015 Schools Expo has partnered with Dr. Calvin Mackie and STEM NOLA to offer students hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) projects. The event is open to the public, and free Superdome parking will be available at Garage 6 on Sugar Bowl Drive. For more information on the Schools Expo, contact Arielle McConduit at (504) 620-2332 or PIC@ulgno.com. JPPSS KINDERGARTEN MEETING: The Jefferson Parish Public School System will hold an information session for parents
Chef Andy Adelman provides hot kosher lunches five days a week for students at the Jewish Community Day School in Metairie.
Photo provided by Jewish Community Day School
on the prekindergarten registration process for the 2015-16 school year from 6 to 7 p.m. Monday in the boardroom of Bonnabel Magnet Academy High School, 2801 Bruin Drive, Kenner. General information on the prekindergarten program can be found on the district website at www.jpschools.org/department/pre-kindergarten. JEFFERSON PARISH ENROLLMENT: The Jefferson Parish Public School System has increased its total enrollment to 48,126 students for the 2014-15 school
year, an increase of 1,465 compared with this time last year. Since the 2009-10 school year, JPPSS has increased its enrollment by more than 3,000 students. “These numbers demonstrate that JPPSS schools are becoming the schools of choice for more and more Jefferson Parish families,” said outgoing Superintendent James Meza Jr. “We have more highquality schools in the district than ever before, with 39 A and B schools in 2014. I think families are taking advantage
of all of the options for a great education through JPPSS.” The district’s increase in enrollment was seen across grade levels, with elementary grades growing by 2.8 percent, middle school grades growing by 1.2 percent, and high school grades growing by 6.3 percent when compared with last year. JPPSS charter schools represented about 20 percent of the growth overall as Young Audiences Charter School and Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy added additional grades.
The district’s free and reduced lunch rate remained the same at 76.5 percent despite the increase in students. The number of its English language learners, however, increased by more than 1,200 students to 5,634, an increase of 27.5 percent. ST. ELIZABETH ANN SETON: The youngest students at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School will participate in a Mardi Gras parade on the street in front of the school, 4119 St. Elizabeth Drive, Kenner, at 1:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13. Meanwhile, the school’s chocolate candy sale is underway through March 4. JEWISH COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL: The Kash-ROOT Kitchen, a project of the Parent Association of the Jewish Community Day School, provides fromscratch hot kosher lunches five days a week for the school’s students and others at the Goldring Woldenberg campus, 3727 West Esplanade Ave., Metairie. Kash-ROOT chef Andy Adelman is making two products available to the public: kosher pizza on Thursdays and freshbaked challah on Fridays. To order pizza or challah, call (504) 343-9498 or send email to andeezacatering@gmail.com.
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