Jill
members of the Krewe of Dolly, stand inside the Alvar Library during aspecial program that was held to kick off registration for the Imagination Library, partof the Dollywood Foundation which promotes literacy by providing free books every month for children from birth to the ageof5
BY EVAJACOB BARKOFF
Contributing writer
Onething youcan sayabout members ofthe Krewe of Dolly,who wear bold costumes with big, blonde wigs for parades and special events: They know how to have fun. But there’smore to their tribute to musician Dolly Parton than just costuming. The krewe also has taken up Parton’scause of spreading alove of reading.
The krewe has partnered with aprogram called Imagination Library,which is part of the Dollywood Foundation that promotes literacy by providing free books every month for children from birth to age 5, totaling 60 books for each child. After starting small in asingle New Orleans ZIPcode, the program will be expanding next year “‘Dolly Parton’sAmerica’ is apodcast, and her(Parton’s) message of love,kindnessand inclusionwas what we wanted to spreadto others,” said Wentz, the founding president
The New OrleansMuseumof Art held its Fall Festival recently, celebrating the20thanniversary ofthe Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden behindthe museum in CityPark.The event featured music, guided tours, performances andart projects.
BY VICTOR ANDREWS Staff writer
In NewOrleans, things go bump in thenight allthe time.But as AllHallow’sEve nears, the creepfactorgoesintooverdrive —timetoget your fright on.Horrifichauntsand hallowed happenings have croppedupinthe greater metro area likezombies from thegraveyard Here’s alist of just afew of the freaky,
frightening andfrantic spots to getintouch with your innerghoul.And some funand family friendlythings as well.
THE MORTUARY: 4800 Canal St New Orleans. Set in aformer funeral home near some of the city’slargest cemeteries, “HELLection 2024: Choose ThyFate”isthe current frightful configuration of the1872
domicile. In addition to thehouse, there are Mystere Escape Rooms and more. Open most weekends through Nov. 3.Timed tickets startat$25. themortuary.net.
NEW ORLEANS NIGHTMARE: 319
Butterworth St., Jefferson.This perennial favorite by 13thFloor Haunted House
Continued
who now serves as board
secretary
The group started with about 30 people in 2020 and now has 400 members
The krewe’sfounders are Kari Ayala, Heather Brutz, Sarah Post, Elizabeth Selasky and Annie Wentz.
“In 2021, we registered as a501(c)(3) and set our sights on bringing the Imagination Library to the children of New Orleans,” Wentz said.
The program is monitored by the krewe’sadministrator using the Imagination Library database system to approve new registrations and maintain the database of enrolled children, Wentz added.
“And from there, funds raisedbythe krewe through membership fees, sponsorships and donations are provided to the foundation to ship the books directly to thehomes of registeredchil-
Continued from page1G
features “Dead Again,”“Dead Hour” and “Craft of the Midnight.”There’salso two horror-themed secret bars Open most weekends through Halloween, tickets startat $19.99. neworleansnightmare. com.
SKELETON HOUSE: St. Charles Avenue at State Street. Over the past 20 years, Louellen Berger’sfront yard boneyard has become aHalloween landmark, meant to amuse, not horrify,the thousands who crowd the fence to inspect the spectacle. Shehas a stockpile of more than 80 fullsize assemblages of plastic skeletons. Not to be missed.
”SWAMPUS RETURNS”: The Broadside, 600 N. Broad St., NewOrleans.The Krewe of Krampus, based on the tales from the European Alps of St. Nicholas’ sidekick who punishes the bad, stages “The Bride of Swampus: The Dark Wedding of the Year,” an immersiveexperience of entertainment, gothic glam and costumes from 7:30 p.m. to 9p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5.Tickets startat$35. swampusreturns. com.
ZOMBIEPAINTBALL: NOLA Motorsports Park, 11075 Nicolle Blvd.,Avondale.The racewaygets spooky with an interactiveZombie Apocalypse, go-karting,axe throwing, vendors and more. Get ammo and board the bus to “kill” as manyofthe undead as possible.Tickets startat$22 ThursdaytoSaturdaythrough Nov.2,with Oct. 27 and 30. nolamotor.com.
HOWL-O-WEENIE DOG
COSTUME CONTEST: Dat Dog, 3336 Magazine St., New Orleans. Costume the canine and head overtobenefitZeus’ Rescues from 3p.m. to 5p.m. Oct. 12.Arunwayshowkeeps the pawty going at 3:30 p.m. There’salso adonation drive for food, towels, leashes,toys or other pet paraphernalia. datdog.com.
GHOST MANOR: The Uptown fright-zone of fun at Magazine and Second streets will be open avarietyofdays, including Oct. 17-20, 24-27 and 30-31. Macabre and merry meet in this multimedia displayofseasonal sights Additional weekends may be added.The shows begin at 7p.m. and runthrough 10 p.m., weather permitting ghostmanor.org
dren each month.”
The krewe decided to start with the70117 ZIP code of NewOrleans,and kicked off the program in May at the Alvar Library with a craft program.There, they signed up 70 families, and since then, 96 children have registered for Imagination Library
Explaining theneed
Ayala is aformer charter school educator
“I was always shaken by the lack of early literacy programs in New Orleans,” she said. “Many of my students were years behind gradelevel because of this. Dolly’s Imagination
Librarycan at leasthelpto fill some of the gap.”
Jill Dubchick, chair of the krewe’sliteracy committee, said it has printed materials to support registration that it can supply to schools and other community groups.
“Since we are increasing our target sign-up au-
diencetoall parents with children ages 0-5 in all NewOrleansZIP codes beginningnextyear, we will be seeking more connections with day cares,early learning centers, birthing centers, hospitals, and other agencies to help provide support for parents and their children.”
GHOSTINTHE OAKS: Carousel Gardens Amusement, City Park, 7VictoryAve., New Orleans.This family affair has arts and crafts, roasting hot dogs, apumpkin patch and trick-or-treatingthroughout the park.The fun starts at 6p.m. Oct. 17-20 (earlyadmission is 5 p.m.).Tickets start at $22, children under 36 inchesfree neworleanscitypark.org.
BOOATTHE ZOO: Audubon Zoo,6500Magazine St , NewOrleans.All the ghouls “axed for you” atthis kidfriendly three-day festwith ahost of things to do, food trucks, animals and trickor-treating.Thefun benefits Children’sHospital and the zoo. It happens from 10 a.m. to 5p.m. Oct. 1820.Tickets startat$38 audubonnatureinstitute.org
HAUNTED HOUSE AND SAINTS SPOOKTACULAR
TRUNK-OR-TREAT: St.Martin’s EpiscopalSchool, 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie.Twodays of spooky fun are in storeto raise funds for the school’s performing artsprograms.The haunted houseisopen by time slots from7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 18 and 6:30 p.m. to 9p.m.Oct. 19.Tickets start at $10.The trunk-or-treat is from 5p.m. to 7:30p.m. and includes gamesand prize. Tickets start at $10,presale only.stmsaints.com
GHOSTLYGALLIVANT: The Cabildo,Jackson Square, 701 Chartres St., NewOrleans. Friendsofthe Cabildo presents “GallatinStreet —A Perfect Hell on Earth,”a tour through
one of the city’smost notorious thoroughfares, every half-hour from5:30 p.m.to8 p.m. Oct. 18. Libations and music in the courtyard.Admission starts at $30. friendsofthecabildo.org
KREWE OF BOO: Carnival meets Halloween in this parade of epic proportions at sunset Oct. 19 in the French Quarter.Itkicks off at Chartres Street and Elysian Fields Avenue, rolls through the Vieux Carré along North Peters and Decatur streets, then loops onto Canal Street and heads to Tchoupitoulas Street to AndrewHiggins Boulevard, ending at the Monster Mash post-parade costume party at Generations Hall. kreweofboo. com.
BOOCARRE HALLOWEEN
HAUNT: The French Market District will be Oct. 19, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., in Dutch Alley, 900 block of N. Peters Street in NewOrleans.The kid-centric event encourages costumes for all ages and will feature livemusic, children’sactivities, aSpooky Second Line and trick-or-treating.Free. www frenchmarket.org
CITY OF KENNER TRUNK
OR TREAT: Muss Bertolino Stadium, 620 W. Esplanade Ave.,Kenner. Don your favorite costumes and head to the stadium and getsome candies, plus concessions will be available for purchase from 5p.m. to 7p.m. Oct. 19.Then, there’sanoutdoor screening of “IF.” Free. kenner.la.us.
TRUNK OR TREATAT
LAFRENIERE PARK: 3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie.The
Dawn Busters Kiwanis get trunk-y with it at this annual candy-palooza, with more than 45 vehicles giving out the goodies.There’salso a food court, carousel rides and inflatables.Admission is $15 per child from 6p.m. to 8p.m. Oct. 19.Tickets will be sold at the gate only.dawnbusters.org
BREWS AND BOOS: Carousel Gardens Amusement, City Park, 7VictoryAve New Orleans. It’stime for the over21 kids to getghastly with it for beer and cheer at 8p.m. Oct. 25-26. Rides and more are included and VIPs getan open bar,seating and special treats.Tickets startat$32. neworleanscitypark.org
FALL FEST: Louisiana Children’sMuseum, 15 Henry Thomas Drive, City Park, New Orleans. Seasonal celebration, costumes encouraged, that includes some things spooky, creepyand magical, likea Monster Mash dance party, potion brewing,pumpkin painting,games and more.
Nevertoo soon to start
Wentz added that families who live in other ZIPcodes can still sign up and will be notified when their ZIP code becomes available.
“Weknow alot of crime in the city is caused by uneducated and neglected young people,” said Heather Brutz, the krewe’svice president. “There’sresearch that shows literacy and books can help motivate peopleand spark creativity.That hope is appealing to me for the betterment of our community.”
“Thisisanamazing and magical program for supporting literacy,” Dunchick added. “And we are so excited to bring this to families in the city we love.”
Parents who would like too enroll their children in the Imagination Library program canemail kodimaginationlibrary@gmail.com And to make adonation to the Krewe of Dollyfor the Imagination Library,go to the website www.thekreweofdolly.org.
is at 11 a.m. Costumes are encouraged.Tickets for adults (16 and over) startat$20. lpomusic.com.
BOO! DAT504 HALLOWEEN EXTRAVAGANZA: 2900 block of Audubon Street,New Orleans. Impact 504 stages adaylong celebration Oct 26, starting at 1p.m., to raise funds for domestic violence issues, with trunk-or-treating costume contests, ahaunted house, voter-registration drive, STEAM activities, carnival games, food and music. boodat.com.
HAUNTED HOUSE AT HABANA OUTPOST: 1040 Esplanade Ave., NewOrleans. Camp SoulGrowhosts ahaunted house in which kids can walk through, collect candygift bags, playgames and make Halloween-themed crafts from 5p.m. to 7p.m. Oct. 29. Costumes are encouraged. Reservations required through Eventbrite. campsoulgrow.org/ upcoming-events.html.
THE ANNE RICE VAMPIRE BALL: Derbès Mansion, 2257 BayouRoad, NewOrleans. The Vampire Lestat FanClub’s gathering at amasquerade ball at 8p.m. Nov. 1.A dinner is included, as well as beverages, music by the Harry Hardin Quartet and DJs, costume contest and silent auction.Tickets startat$275. vamplestat.com.
PUMPKINPATCHES
Oct.26during museum hours. lcm.org
HOWL-O-WEENIE PET FEST: Metairie Humane Dog Shelter hosts the fest Oct. 26. from 11 a.m. to 5p.m. at Westwood Playground, 200 W. Loyola in Kenner.Free. Costumes encourages. Bring pets on leashes or in carriers.Trick or treating for the kids, games food, and photos with Mr Pumpkin Head and Santafor a fee. Cutest Pet&Pal Costume Contest at 3p.m.; $5 to enter FAMILYCONCERT —HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR: Roussel Hall, Loyola University,6301 St. Charles Ave., NewOrleans. The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra plays audience favorite features tunes from “Harry Potter,”“Raiders of the Lost Ark” and “Frozen,”plus classics likeSaint-Saens’ “Danse Macabre.”Events startat10:15 a.m. Oct.26 for Music Learning Stations to chat with the music makers, then the hourlong concert
The metroareaisfrighteningly full of pumpkin patches. Here’s alist of some of them. Take your pick.
n St.Augustine’sEpiscopal Church: 3412 Haring Road, Metairie.Through Oct. 31, noon to 8p.m. Pumpkins, jewelry, crafts, baked goods. staugustinesmet.com. n First Presbyterian Church: 5401 S. Claiborne Ave., New Orleans.Through Oct. 31, hours vary.fpcno.org/pumpkinpatch.
n St.Andrew’sEpiscopal Church: 1031 S. Carrollton Ave., NewOrleans. Oct. 5-31, hoursvary. Games, crafts, photo spots. standrewsnola. com.
n St. Martin’sEpiscopal Church: 2216 Metairie Road, Metairie. Oct. 7-31, hoursvary. stmepiscopal.com.
n Woodland Church: 5837 BerkleyDrive,Algiers. Oct 7-31, hours vary.Patch, games, storytime. wcnola.org
n St. Mark’sEpiscopal Church: 3245 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey.Oct. 9-31, hours vary.stmarksharvey.com.
raising awareness and funds.
NOLA Dogs “Race to the Rescue” is celebrating its seventh anniversary with its annual race and blessing of the pets There is still time to register for the NOLA Dogs Race to the Rescue 5K on Oct. 13, taking both runners and walkers through the grounds of Lake Lawn MetairieCemetery.The morning of exercise and fun celebrates the lives of local pets and raises money for area no-kill animal rescue organizations. The race has raised about $140,000 for local rescues over the past six years, drawing more than 400 participantsofall ages to compete. Proceeds from this year’srace and online auction will go to Animal Rescue New Orleans,Take Paws Rescue, The Inner Pup, Trampled RoseRescue &Rehab, and Zeus’ Rescues. The funds will helpthe organizations covermedical bills and other expenses for the adoptable pets in their care until they find their forever homes.
Race organizer JoAnne Casey,ofNOLA Girl Charitable Giving, said this is the third year Heaven’sPets at Lake Lawn Metairie has hosted the fundraiser Patrick McCausland, president of Heaven’s Pets, said the family-friendly day of recreation is allabout
BEREAVEMENT AND SUPPORT
GROUP: The bereavement and support ministry of St Christopher Church’s Oct. 10 meeting will featureguest speaker Kim Smith,Gretna
Festivities will also includea prerace dog parade andthe annualblessing of thepetsafter the race.
8a.m.: Dog Parade
The festivities will kickoff with afree second-line around Metairie Cemetery, led by Soul BrassBand, for pets and their owners. Costumes for animals and people are encouraged 8:30 a.m.: NOLA Dogs Race to the Rescue 5K Run/ Walk
The race is for humans only.Participants will cover a3.1-milecourse through thebeautiful, oak-tree lined streets of historic Metairie Cemetery
FOX 8meteorologist Zack Fradella will emcee, while representatives from OrangetheoryFitnesswill lead race participants in warmup exercises.
The race will conclude with an awards ceremony.
Attendees will have theoption to bid on an array of auction items.
9:30 a.m.: Heaven’s Pets blessingofthe pets
Participants and their pets of all shapes and sizes are invited to attend the free blessingtohonor beloved petsboth past and present
Treats, giveawaysand sno-balls from Plum Street Snoballs will be provided for pets and people.
Forrace details andonline registration,visit www. nolagirl.org/events. On-site registration will also be available on race day startingat7 a.m. Virtual participation is also available.
Traci D. Howerton is the volunteer manager forAnimal Rescue NewOrleans (ARNO) anonprofit, volunteerbased, no-kill shelter For more information on ARNO, visit www. animalrescueneworleans. org.
bereavement coordinator and chaplain from Heart of Hospice.The meetingwill begin at 6:15 p.m.inthe ParishCenter at St. Christopher
Church, corner of Manson and Derbignystreets, 3900 DerbignySt. in Metairie. All areinvited. www.stchristopherano.com.
Hopper is an 18-month-old male, hound/Lab mix. He might be abit shyat first, but oncehe warms up, you’ll see just howsweet and lovable he is.Helovescar rides and ear rubs, and is housebroken and crate trained. Formore info, email adopt@animalrescueneworleans.org
PROVIDED PHOTO PETOFTHE WEEK
NAMIWALKS: Registration is open for theNational Alliance on Mental Illness Southeast Louisiana walk to raise fundsfor free mental health support and services. The walk will be held on Oct.12 at Audubon Park (Newman Bandstand), 6500 Magazine St. in NewOrleans. Check-in starts at 9a.m., andthe walk begins at 10 a.m. Registra-
PROVIDED PHOTO
Fourmembers of Mount Carmel Academy’sselectcompetition choir Chorale, have been chosen tosing in theLouisianaAmerican Choral Directors Association All-StateChoir.The selected students will spend aweekend at the LA-ACDAFall Conferencerehearsingwitha nationally renowned conductor and performing in aconcertalongside other top singers. Those honoredare, fromleft,Avery Dugas,sophomore; IsabellaAdams,junior;Kailyn Madden, junior;and Natalie Patrias, junior
NOCCA: The NewOrleans Center for CreativeArtsTheatreArts Departmentwill perform the awardwinning children’s play“TheBoy at the Edge of Everything”Oct.23-24 in Lupin Hall at NOCCA’scampus, 2800 Chartres St. in New Orleans. Curtain is 7p.m. nightly.Tickets are$15,available on Eventbriteor at the door. www.NOCCA.com.
BROTHER MARTIN HIGH: The Dionysians theater will present “The Addams Family” on Oct. 24-26 and Nov. 1-2 at the auditoriumon campus, 4401 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans. Curtain is 7p.m. for evening performances and2 p.m. for matinees. Reserved seats $20; general admission $15. brothermartin.com/drama.
Norwood
BROTHER MARTIN HIGH: Sophomore Jack Norwood has been selected to the Louisiana American Choral Directors Association TTBB (tenor 1,tenor 2, bass 1, bass 2) All-State Honor Choir. In November, Norwood will perform with the choir under the direction
of McKenna StensonfromFlorida State University.
Manuel
BROTHER MARTIN HIGH: WardeJ Manuel, Brother Martin Class of 1986, has been named the 2025 Alumnus of the Year, based on his contributionstohis profession and to his religious civic, business, educational and communityinvolvement. Manuel is director of athletics at University of Michigan and is chairman of the CollegeFootball Playoff Selection Committee. Manuel will be recognized formally at aceremony in March.
ST.MARY’SDOMINICAN: Girlsin grades K-7can participate in the Dominican CheerminicamponOct. 12, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., at the campus, 7701WalmsleyAve.inNew Orleans. Attendees will be divided intogroupsby gradelevel and instructed by Dominicancheerleaders. Online registration is $50; walk-up registration is $60. www stmarysdominican.org.
Staff report
TheBright School for the Deaf held aribbon cutting Sept. 27 celebrating its new permanent home. The school is the only early intervention program in Greater New Orleansand surrounding parishes for deaf, hard of hearing and language-delayed children.
Throughout its65-year history the school hasmoved numerous times. This year,however,the school purchased andrenovated one of the buildings on the former campus of Ridgewood Preparatory School.
The Bright School’snew location at 201 PasadenaAve Metairie, nowaccommodates infants, toddlers,preschoolers,and recently added akindergarten.
The two-story, approximately 10,000-square-foot buildinghouses TheBright School,aswell as the Parent Resource Center that provides support to all area families whether thechildrenare enrolled in the school or not. Familiesattend sign language classesand parent sessions and gain information on numerous topics regarding hearing loss and more.
During October, purchase anypairofregular-price Johnston &Murphymen’s shoesand wear them for 10 days.Ifyou’renot completely satisfied, return them fora full refund.*
*Toreceive afull refund, shoes must be returned with the original receipt within 10 days from date of purchase.
TerrytownLibrary turns50withaparty andanew communitygarden
The Terrytown Library will celebrate its first 50 years with the unveiling of anew community garden a party from 1p.m. to 4p.m. Oct. 12. The party willinclude a lineup of guest speakers, live music, abirthday cake, food and drink, crafts for children, and tables with representatives from numerous civicorganizations, including the Knights of Columbus, Golden Age Club/Golden Theta, Terrytown Plant Club, and Westbank Golden Opportunity,among others. St. Vincent de PaulChurch will also sponsora canned food drive. After the debut of the garden, on the grounds of the library at 680 Heritage Ave., patrons can participate in planting and cultivation of the flower beds and vegetable plots from 11 a.m. to noon. Fridays. When the Terrytown Branch openedin1974, it was the largest library in the parish with 5,400 square feet. It was financed entirely by the parish. It remained the largest library in the system until 1981, when the BelleTerre Library opened. It has been renovated several times throughout the years. The library is locatedinthe Terrytown subdivision created in 1960, named of course, for the developer’sdaughter,Terry READING TO ROVER: Kidscan practice reading aloud by readingstories to therapy dogs —the most patient and nonjudgmental creatures ever —from 1p.m. to 2p.m. Oct. 13 at the Jane O’Brien Chatelain West Bank Regional Library, 2751 Manhattan Blvd, Harvey
tion rules, charts,traileringand more. Students whocompletethe course will be issued avessel operators certification card. Theclass lasts between six andeight hours.
Chris Smith LIBRARY LAGNIAPPE
NOTARY SERVICES: Pati Kates, alicensed notary public, will provide free notary services to library cardholders from 9a.m. to 10 a.m. Tuesdays through theend ofthe year at theJane O’Brien Chatelain West Bank Regional Library,2751 Manhattan Blvd. in Harvey Anotary public performs variousduties, including witnessing the signing of documents; verifyingthe identity of the signer(s), their awareness of the contents andtheir willingness tosign; administering oaths and affirmations; andtaking depositions and affidavits.
Kates’ services are on afirstcome, first-served basis.
ABOUTTHE ARCHIVES: Leon Miller, curator ofthe Louisiana Research Collection at Tulane University Special Collections, will discuss “The Role of Archives in Cultural Preservation,”at7 p.m. Oct. 14 at theEast BankRegional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave.,Metairie.
Miller will discusswhat archivistsdo; what archives are for; how they are different from other cultural institutions; what they contributetothe community;and howcan they be supported
TOY ROUNDUP: The East Bank Regional Makerspace staff is looking for oldand broken toys to use in a “Frankentoy” program next month.
River Ridge Scout earns Eaglerank
Cameron Bosch,amember of Boy Scout Troop 263 in River Ridge led by Scoutmaster Stephen Schiff, has been awarded therank of Eagle Scout. His Eagle Scout project was to build and install aU.S. flag retirement box for the benefit of American Legion Post396 on Little Farms Avenue in River Ridge. Cameron, son of Charles and Melissa Bosch of River Ridge, is asophomore at Archbishop Rummel High School.
MUSIC: The band from American Legion Post 377 will perform a concert at 7p.m.Oct.9 at theEast Bank Regional Library,4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.
BOATING SAFETY: The LouisianaDepartment of Wildlife and Fisheries will conductaboatingsafety class beginning at 9a.m. Oct. 12 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. NapoleonAve., Metairie. The course includes informationonchoosing aboat, naviga-
Participants will dismantle, redesign and rebuild toys as part of a creative Halloween activity.(Think of the misfit toys from “Toy Story.”)
Patrons who have anything at home that’sdestined for the trash or Goodwill, feel free to send it to EBRMakerspace, attention Shannon Kitchens or Al Heavener,4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.
ChrisSmith is manager of adult programming at theJefferson Parish Public Library
BY JANE LEGROS Contributing writer
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month,and
theNew OrleansPublic Library is teaming up with theLouisiana Breast &Cervical HealthProgram to share free information and resources.
The group will be at Norman Mayer Library, 3001 Gentilly Blvd.,onOct. 10 from 11 a.m. to 1p.m.; Mid-CityLibrary,4140 Canal St on Oct. 15 from 1-3 p.m.; and Algiers Regional Library,3014 Holiday Drive, on Oct. 17 from 11 a.m. to 1p.m. Stop by to learnabout breast cancer prevention and screening options, as well as referrals fornocost mammograms for the uninsured or underinsured.
POETRYSHOWCASE: Celebrate thepower of words at the New OrleansMuseum of ArtonOct.9 fora Creative Writing PoetryShowcase.
Over the past few weeks, Creative Assembly artist Daniel Fitzpatrick has been leading classes at library locations across thecity,which will be celebrated during this free reading and reception. Each poem will be areflection of the vibrant neighborhoods of New Orleans, capturing theessence of our community Fitzpatrick is theauthor of thenovel “Only The Lover Sings,” and theeditor of “Joie de Vivre,” a journal of Catholic art, culture, history and letters for South Louisiana.
The showcase starts at 5p.m. and runs abouttwo hours.
AUTHOR TALK: Award-winning author Silvia MorenoGarcia will visit thelibrary via Zoom on Oct. 9 from 6-7 p.m. to discuss Latin American genre fiction and her latest novel, “The Seventh Veil of Salome.”
Visit nolalibrary.co/moreno-garcia to register for this event and to submit your questions to the author WHY VOTE?: In the weeks leading up to Election Day,the library is hosting aseries of speakers to answer the question, “Why Vote?”
The library is anonpartisan organization, and this series is an educational program,not apolitical one. It aims to help voters remain informed on upcoming elections. There will be no campaigning at any of these events.
MEDIA AND TAXTALKS: On Oct. 12, WWL-TV investigative reporter Mike Perlstein will visit the REACH Center,2022 St. Bernard Ave., at 11 a.m. to break downways to gather and share information in today’smedia landscape.
Also on Oct. 12, the Bureau of Governmental Research will be at East New Orleans Regional Library,5641 Read Blvd., from 11 a.m. to 1p.m. to help voters use their property tax data dashboard, learn where tax dollars are spent, and how to vote on it. Visit nolalibrary.co/voting-resources for moreinformation and to register forboth events. JaneLeGros is thedirector of marketing and communications forthe OrleansParish Library
Aloan yellowduckie contemplates the startofthe race.
Jets of water getthe duckies moving
Theannual Rubber Duck Derby,afundraiser for SecondHarvestFoodBank, was held recently at CityPark’s Big Lake. Tens of thousands of thelittle quackerswere floatedwith the help of some high-poweredhoses after sponsors paid $5 for asingle duck or $100 for aflock of 25, allfor the chance to win prizes, including agrand prize of $5,000. All proceeds providemeals for children and familiesacross South Louisiana and help restock
SecondHarvest’sdisaster response supplies.
Acarpet of little quackerscovers asection of Big Lake
FESTIVALS
HISPANIC HERITAGEFEST: The fest willbeheld from 11 a.m. to 7p.m. Oct. 12 on theGreat Lawn at the University of Holy Cross, 4123 Woodland DriveinAlgiers. Therewill be music, food and art vendors. uhcno.edu
NOLA FUNK FEST: The LouisianaMusic& Heritage Experience will present funk acts Oct. 18-20 at the New OrleansJazzMuseum, 400 Esplanade Ave. in New Orleans. They include LeoNocentelli, George PorterJr., Big Freedia, Tank and the Bangas,Marcia Ball and Dumpstafunk. Tickets start at $130. www nolafunkfest.com.
KENNER FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL: Thefree event will be held from 11 a.m. to 7:30p.m Oct. 20 in Laketown in Kenner with 30 local food trucks, livemusic, artsand crafts vendorsand akids’ activity zone. Free parking is available next to the Pontchartrain Center, 4545 Williams Blvd., with freeshuttles to the fest. www.kenner.la.us.
GATESFEST AFTER DARK: ALL SHUK UP!: Free tickets areavailable for the Congregation Gates of Prayer’s music andartsfestival, to be held4-9 p.m. Oct. 20 at 4000 W. Esplanade Ave. in Metairie. FlowTribe will headline,and the festival’s centerpiece,akumzitz,will featureanIsraeli-style singalongand communal song and dance sessions. There will alsobe localartists and Jewish/Israeli food vendors. Gatesfest.org.
TOPTACO: The food competition will be held Oct. 24 at Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd.in Metairie. Area restaurants, bars and caterers will compete for prizes. Activitiesinclude live music, acostume contest, mechanical bull, performances by the LuchaKrewe andNOLA Nightlights and goat yoga. Proceeds benefit local nonprofits. This is a21-and-olderevent. Tickets start at $85. toptaconola.com.
JAPANFEST: The Japan ClubinNew Orleans andthe Consulate General of Japan in Nashville will host adaylong eventcelebrating Japanese culture10a.m.-4 p.m. on Oct. 26 at the New Orleans MuseumofArt,1 Collins Diboll Circle in New Orleans. Activities include art, performances,food, martial arts demonstrations and vendors. $10, $5 for NOMA members. Those 19 years and underare admitted free. my.noma.org/6343/japan-fest.
OAKSTREET PO-BOY FESTIVAL: The celebration of New Orleans’s favoritesandwich will be held Oct. 27 on the 8100-8700 blocksof Oak Street, with aKids Zone aSaints gamewatching area, acelebrity-judgedpo-boy competition, food and beverage vendors and livemusic. Wristbands start at $10. www poboyfest.com.
COMMUNITYEVENTS
SPLASH PARK OPENING: The new park, at JohnnyJacobs Playground, 5851 5th Ave. in Marrero,will be open from 10 a.m. to 5p.m every Saturdayand SundayinOctober. It includes six overhead waterunits and four in-ground sports ball features. The freesplash park is for kids ages birth to12 years andis ADAaccessible. www.JeffParish.gov.
ELECTRIC CON: Afan convention commemorating Electric Entertainment’s original programs will be held Oct. 12-13 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, 900 Convention Center Blvd. in New Orleans. Fans of “Leverage,” “The Librarians,” “The Outpost, Almost Paradise” and “The Ark” can participate in programming featuring special guests, panel discussions, cosplayand more.Tickets start at $49. www.creationent.com/cal/elc_nola/ index.htm.
FIESTADERECURSOS PARA TI: TrainingGrounds is celebrating National Hispanic Heri-
is Oct. 18-20.
tage Month through aresource fair tailored to Spanish-speaking families with children up to age 5from11a.m. to 1p.m.onOct. 11 at theCorpusChristi Community Resource Center,2022St. BernardAve.inNew Orleans. Theevent will have speakers, brain-building activities for children and Hispanic food. bit. ly/FiestadeRecursosParaTi.
HOWYOU DOIN’ NEW ORLEANS: Arts New Orleans will host its 2024 Percent for ArtProgram exhibition opening 6-9 p.m. on Oct. 17 at Merchant House, 1150 Magazine St. in New Orleans. Arts New Orleans purchases artwork for displayinpublic spaces. The event will include music and small bites. RSVP is required. howyoudoinneworleans.splashthat.com.
HOMEFEST: The free block party will be held noon-6 p.m. Oct. 20 on the 2400 and 2500 blocksofBayou Road in New Orleans. It celebrates the cultural heritage and the entrepreneurial spirit of BayouRoad and will featureafood, vendor and community resource marketplace, and liveperformances. www.homefestnola.com
TOUCH-A-TRUCK: Tickets areonsale through Oct. 31 for the JuniorLeague of New Orleans fundraiser,tobeheld 9a.m.-4 p.m. on Nov. 2 at the Pontchartrain Convention &Civic Center, 4545 Williams Blvd. in Kenner.Additional activities include achild-sized coloring wall, amarket andmore. Advance tickets $12; VIP tickets $20. Tickets can be purchased at the door (no cash).Children 1and under are admitted free. jlno.org/touch-a-truck.
CULTURE&CONCERTS
THURSDAYSATTWILIGHT: The concertseries featuring musicians, mint juleps and more continues 6-8 p.m. on Thursdays at the Pavilion of the TwoSisters at the New Orleans Botanical Garden, 1Victory Ave. in New Orleans. Oct. 10 is Harvey Jesus. Oct. 24 is the Boogie Men.Admission is $15. NewOrleansCityPark. org CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL: The Crescent CityChamberMusic Festival opens its ninth season with the ensemble-in-residence Manhattan Chamber Players joining forces with members of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestraand other local musicians to perform J.S.Bach’s BrandenburgConcertos on Oct. 10 at Trinity Episcopal Church, 2125 Coliseum St. in New Orleans. Doors open at 6:30, with a preconcert talk and Q&A at 7p.m.The concert
begins at 7:30 p.m. Free. crescentcitychambermusicfestival.com.
BOOKS
“FOLLOW THE STARS HOME”: Author Diane C. McPhail will be in conversation about her new biographical novelwith Sue Strachan at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 11 at the Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com.
“GARYAND HIS LITTLE FRIEND JERRY”: Author Adam Dennis will read from his newest book at 11 a.m. on Oct. 12 at the Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com.
“THE BIRDS,THE BEES,AND THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM”: Author Rachel Coler Mulholland will discuss her new book with Julie Lause, co-founder and chief of schools at Crescent City Schools, at 4p.m. on Oct. 20 at the Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. ReserveacopyonEventbrite. www gardendistrictbookshop.com.
“’TIL STRESS DO US PART”: Couples therapist and author Elizabeth Earnshawwill read from and sign her new book at 4p.m. on Oct. 27 at the Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. Earnshawwillbejoined by Kelley Delaune for aQ&A. Reserveacopy on Eventbrite. www.gardendistrictbookshop. com.
FUNDRAISERS/GALAS
DRAGBINGO: The Dress for Success fundraiser will be held Oct. 10 at the Cannery,3803 Toulouse St. in New Orleans. Doors open at 6p.m. for drinks and silent auction, with bingo with Kookie and the Queens 7-9 p.m. Tickets start at $75. neworleans.dressforsuccess.org. NOLADOGSRACETOTHE RESCUE: Registration is open for the 5K run/walk on Oct. 13 at Metairie Cemetery,5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. in New Orleans. The fundraiser will also include aprerace dog parade and Heaven’s Pets’ annual Blessing of the Pets after the race. Proceeds will go to Animal Rescue New Orleans, Take Paws Rescue,
Tickets start at $75. www.lakeforestcharter. org. LOUISIANA WALKS FORPARKINSON’S: The fundraiser will takeplace on Oct. 26 at LafrenierePark Pavilion Island,3000 Downs Blvd. in Metairie, to support the Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson’s, which offers free programs and resources to people living with Parkinson’s, their caregivers and families. Registration, check-in and T-shirt pickup starts at 9a.m., and the walk begins at 11 a.m. Adult advance participation is $30, with day-of $35. www.parkinsonswalk.org.
FÊTE DU JARDIN: The Louisiana Landmarks Society will celebrate the 225th birthdayof the Pitot House at the fundraiser, to be held 6-8 p.m.
MEETINGS
