Helping hands
STAFF PHOTOSBYMATTHEWPERSCHALL
Metairie
womanusesdonated
BY EVAJACOB BARKOFF
Contributing writer
Linda Gonzalezspends most evenings in her Metairie livingroom, surrounded by bundles of yarn in every imaginablecolor,along with the crochet hooks and scissors neededto create outerwear forcold weather She places her completed accessories neatly on her diningroom table,and soon, everything will be sharedwith society’smost vulnerable through Covenant House and Ozanam Inn
“God gave me thetalent to help oth-
Metairie home.
yarn to crochetouterwear forthe needy
ers,” Gonzalez said. “I love to make peoplehappy and put asmile on their face.”
Gonzalez’sproject started witha Facebook post several weeks ago by Terry Pruski Shaw asking thecommunity to drop off any unused yarn on her porch in Bucktown; it would be turned over to Gonzalez.
In just ashort time, theresults were astounding.
“Theresponsewas immediate,” said Shaw, who has been friends with Gonzalez for almost 30 years. “For days, there were bags and boxes filled with
Dental care is important for our pets, but it is something that is often overlooked.
Petsneed regular dental cleanings just like people do.
Dogs and cats can develop periodontal disease by age 3, so establishing good dental hygieneearly on is key for their long-term overall health. Plaque and bacteria can build up in adog or cat’s mouth over ashort period of time. If left untreated, tartar buildupcan lead to painful, inflamed gums and develop into infection and gum disease. Over time, these infections can become chronic, or even fatal.
yarn left on my porch. Iwish Ihad weighed everything, but Iweighed one of the big bags and it was 8pounds or more.
“I am only themessenger for Linda, but Idolike being apart of what she is doing. She is just an angel.”
“I couldn’tbelieve how many people have responded to Terry’spost,” Gonzalez added. “This is going to help so manypeople.”
Gonzalez, 72, said she has been crocheting nearly all her life, learning
It’shard to deny when apet has bad breath and sometimes, giving them adental treat just won’tcut it This could be asign that it’stime for a professional dental cleaning.
Fear factor
Some very scaaarythings aregoing on across the metroareafor Halloween
Here aresome of thefreaky, frightening spots in the metroareatoget in touch with your inner ghoul —and some fun and family-friendly ones, as well.
THEMORTUARY: 4800 Canal St., New Orleans. Set in aformer funeral home near someofthe city’s largest cemeteries, “HELLection 2024: Choose ThyFate”isthe current frightful configuration of the1872 domicile.Inaddition to thehouse,there are Mystere Escape Roomsand more.Open most weekends throughNov.3.Timedtickets startat$25. themortuary.net.
NEW ORLEANS NIGHTMARE: 319 Butterworth St., Jefferson.This perennial favorite by 13thFloor Haunted House features“DeadAgain, DeadHour”and “Craftofthe Midnight.”There’salso two horror-themed secretbars. Open most weekends throughHalloween,tickets startat $19.99. neworleansnightmare.com
SKELETON HOUSE: St.CharlesAvenue at State Street.Overthe past 20 years, Louellen Berger’s front yard boneyard has become a Halloween landmark, meant to amuse,not horrify, the thousands whocrowd the fence to inspect the spectacle.She has astockpile of more than 80 full-size assemblagesof plastic skeletons. Nottobemissed.
BERNIE BAXTER’S TRAVELING SIDESHOW: The free neighborhood haunted house at44
Dental treatsdonot solve dental problems. It seems like aquick and easy fix to just give Fido adental treat, but tossing thedog adental bone is not enough. Proper dental care includes keeping the diet “crunchy” with dry food and teeth-healthy hard treats, and checking the teeth regularly
—particularly the rear molars —for dark, plaque-covered areas. Having the vet examine teeth at regular visits and having a dental cleaning done at least once ayear is recommended. Routine brushing is beneficial. If the pet will allow it, try to brush his teeth afew times aweek. This may seem like an impossible task, but if brushing is introduced as aroutine early on as apuppy or newly adopted adult —the dog will get used to it over time. Finger sheaths with nibs on
them madefor reaching into the pet’smouth and brushing can be purchased at mostpet supply stores. Somegroomers offer teeth brushing, but keep in mind, this does not replace an actual dental cleaning by a veterinarian. Cleanings at least once a year by aveterinarian are essential to overall health. This procedure consists of athorough cleaning and removing of tartar and plaque, including under the gum line, and examining gumsfor inflammation or infection. Any bad or loose teeth are removed.
Linda Gonzalez sits amid piles of donatedyarninher
Making creepy crafts andfrightening food on N.O. library’s Halloweenschedule
BY JANE LEGROS Contributing writer
Break out your pumpkins and don your witch hats, it’sthattime of year again. From scarystories to creepy crafts, festive eats to costume parties, the New Orleans Public Library has everything you need to make the most of spooky season.
Crafting enthusiasts canlearn how to crochet aHalloween-inspired appliqué pin to dress up a costume or treat bag. Instruction will be provided, but knowledge of basic crochet stitches is recommended. With the help of an in-person instructor and avideo tutorial from Creativebug, follow one of severalpatterns by crochet designer Twinkie Chan. The class leads you step-by-step through abewitching array of stitches and techniques, from single crochet up to treble crochet, working in rows and rounds, making an invisible join (or perhaps aphantom join?),and an otherworldly way to change yarn colors.
TO-BO
Attach abar-pin backing for a bewitchingbrooch,orcombine multiple appliqués to makeenchantinggarlandsand spine-tinglingparty invitations. Whether you’reanintrepid beginner or an experienced crocheter,these shapes will inspire you to conjure up wickedlydelightful decorationsthatwill leaveeveryone spellbound
This programisfor adults; it will beheld at theNix Library 1401 S. Carrollton Ave., on Oct. 23 from 5p.m.to6:30p.m., and at Central City Library,2020 Jackson Ave., on Oct. 28 from 11 a.m. to12:30 p m.
Registration is recommended, and space is limited. Visit events. nolalibrary.orgfor details
FRIGHTENING FOOD: Delgado Culinary Arts instructors will visit East New Orleans Regional Library,5641 Read Blvd.,onOct. 26 from 11 a.m. to noon for Teen Kitchen Throwdown: Halloween Favorites.
Teen Kitchen Throwdown is a monthly program where chefs share their knowledge on creating snacks and desserts and on exploringcareers in the culinary arts.
Teenswill leave each program with new skills and their delicious work.
This program is for teen patrons ages 11-18 and is sponsored
HELPING
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from her grandmother and aunt.
(Her mother enjoyed knittingand sewing more.)
The first donation she and her mother made was to Ozanam Inn several years ago.
OzanamInn providesbasic needs such as food, shelter,and clothing for those in need.
“My mother would knit while I crocheted,” Gonzalez said. “It’s impossible to know how many items we donated throughout the years.Wedid have ahiatusfor several years while dealing with health issues.”
Gonzalez’smother has since died.
All kinds of yarn were donated, including wool and acrylic.
“It doesn’tmatter what kind of material the yarn is made of because Iuse it all,” said Gonzalez, who for 38 years was aspecial education teacher.“Idon’tlet any yarn go to waste, even if it is just alittle bit. Ifind away to use it
PET
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all.”
In January,Gonzalez began crochetingagain for theOzanam Inn, and so far has completed about 80 items, mostly caps. Earlier this month,she alsobegan projects for Covenant House, including baby hats,headbands, scarves and wristbands. Sheplans to make thedonationsassoon as the weather gets cold
“I am workingonsomenew accessories now,and my plan is to donate100 items to Covenant House,” Gonzalez said. Covenant House is anonprofit that providessafe housing and care to youth ages 16-21 experiencing homelessness and survivorsofhumantrafficking.
Among the yarn donors was Kris Akkaya, who gavea box and acouple of bagsofyarn belonging to her late sister,Missie.
“When Iheard what Linda was doing, my family and Iwere happy for hertouse theyarn,” Akkayasaid.“My sister would be happy theyarngoing to such a wonderfuluse.”
by the Friends of New OrleansPub Library.Space is limited; visit events.nolalibrary.orgto sign up.
AUTHOR TALKS: On Oct. 29, local authors Alex Jennings, Ariadne Blayde and MaritaWoywod Crandle will read their most m cabre manuscrip Fright Night:An ning of Terrifyin Latter Library,5 Ave., from 5p.m Costumes are e light refreshmen
Attendees are als submit two-sente ries to be read du Visit nolalibrary Also, on Oct. 24
Cheryl Gerber w brary,5120 St. Ch 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p her book “The Danse Macabre: Celebration and Survival in New Orleans.”
In this street-level tableau of New Orleans culture, photographer Gerber portrays thecity’s rich and famous while paying homage to theeveryday people who make life special in her
Even apet with no teethcan eatdry foodassoon as the gums heal andharden, so thereisnoneedtoworry if, over the years, several teethare removed. Treating andpreventing infection isessentialto a healthy,long life.
Predental blood work is recommended, especially for older pets, to make sure their vital organs are up for the anesthesiathat will be required. The veterinarianwill examine the pet’steeth at all routine appointments and can recommend when and how often he should haveadentalprocedure. If there is brown coloring at the baseof the teeth, the pet is drooling while eating orifhekeeps his head cockedtothe side asifhaving difficultychewing, avisit to
hometown. FRANKENTOYS: Tweens are invited to Alvar Library,913 Alvar St., on Oct. 30 from 4p.m. to 5p.m. for Frankentoys, an Activate STEAM Afternoon program
In this freaky crafting experiment, attendees will use toy parts to create their own monsters.
Tweens canmakefun Halloween snacks when Delgado CulinaryArts instructors visitEast NewOrleans Regional LibraryonOct. 26.
For moreHalloween programs, reading and watching recommendations, visit nolalibrary.co/ spooky
JaneLeGros is thedirector of marketing and communications forthe NewOrleans Public Library
Another donor was Elizabeth Campbell, who saw Shaw’spost on Facebook. She is part of a home-school cooperative called
the vet is needed. No one likes bad breath, and our pets have no concept of personal space, so we are thefirst to know if Fido’snot feeling mintyfresh.Don’tignore bad breath. Make an appointmenttoget agood dental checkupfor the pets.
Events
OCT.26: PetSmart’sAdopt aShelter Pet Event takes place from noon to 4p.m. at 6851 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie. Meet adoptable dogs from Animal Rescue New Orleans. For moreinfo, go to adopt@ animalrescueneworleans.org
TraciD.Howerton is the volunteer manager for Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO), anonprofit, volunteer-based, no-kill shelter.For more information on ARNO, visit www.animalrescueneworleans.org.
“The total collected (by the organization) was 50 skeins of yarn, the equivalent to about 17,700 yards,” Campbell said. “As important as the book education we give our kids, we also wantto teach them to be kind.
“Linda is using her talents to serve others. When Terry posted about what Linda would be doing with the yarn, that prompted moredonations and kept the blessings going.” Gonzalez said she has never wanted to be the center of attention. She only wants to show kindness to others.
“I have had avery active life,” Gonzalez said. “My mother always told me to help others, to put asmile on someone’sface. And I wake up happy every day knowing that Iamdoing just that.
“Kindness is free, so be as kind as you can to others.”
Coco is a4-year-old boxer mix whoweighs in at 48 pounds. She’sahappyand playfulgirl. Her foster says she’s good with everyone and everything,but she needs aforever home. Formore info, email adopt@animal rescue neworleans.org
PROVIDED PHOTO
PETOFTHE WEEK
Hats come in avariety of sizes, shapes and styles.
STAFF PHOTOSBYMATTHEW PERSCHALL
Linda Gonzalez sits on her couch as she crochets.
Gonzalez has crocheted itemsincluding hats, scrunchies, wrist warmers and more.
Friends of Grace whose students donated the most.
HALLOWEEN
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Vivian CourtinNew Orleans is celebrating its 19th year featuring the tale of Ivan, a lonely engineer whotried a less traditional wayto“make” newfriends. Open Oct. 25, 26 and 31 from 7-10 p.m.
ZOMBIE PAINTBALL: NOLA Motorsports Park, 11075 Nicolle Blvd.,Avondale.The racewaygets spooky with an interactiveZombie Apocalypse, go-karting,axthrowing, 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.
GHOST MANOR: The Uptown fright-zone of fun at Magazine and Second streets will be open avariety of days, including Oct. 24-27 and 3031. Macabre and merry meet in this multimedia displayof seasonal sights.Additional weekends maybeadded.The shows begin at 7p.m. and runthrough 10 p.m., weather permitting.ghostmanor.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. Oct. 26 during 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 Ave. in Kenner.Free. Costumes encouraged. Bring pets on leashes or in carriers.Trick-ortreating for the kids, games food and photos with Mr Pumpkin Head and Santa for a fee. Cutest Pet&Pal Costume Contest at 3p.m.; $5 to enter NORD MONSTER MILE
WALK &RUN: NewOrleans Recreation Department will sponsor afamily-friendly run open to all abilities and ages 5-17 on Oct. 26, 9a.m.- noon, at LafitteGreenwayStation, 436 N. Norman C. Francis ParkwayinNew Orleans. Registration is free through Eventbrite. nordc.org/home/. 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 LearningStations to chat with the music makers, then the hourlong concert is at11a.m. Costumesare encouraged.Tickets for adults (16 and over) start at $20. lpomusic.com.
BOO! DAT504 HALLOWEEN EXTRAVAGANZA: 2900 block of AudubonStreet, 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, costumecontest and silent auction.Tickets startat$275. vamplestat.com.
VerizonBusiness,
PUMPKINPATCHES
The metroareaisfrighteningly full of pumpkin patches. Here’s alistofsomeofthem. 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.Through Oct. 31, hours vary.Games, crafts, photo spots. standrewsnola.com.
n St. Martin’sEpiscopal Church: 2216 Metairie Road, Metairie.Through Oct. 31, hours vary.stmepiscopal.com. n Woodland Church: 5837 BerkleyDrive,Algiers.Through Oct. 31, hours vary.Patch, games, storytime. wcnola.org.
n St. Mark’sEpiscopal Church: 3245 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey.Through Oct.31, hours vary.stmarksharvey.com.
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
Business
With less than four months beforethe Caesars
SuperdomeinNew Orleanshosts SuperBowlLIX, VerizonBusinesswillhostaSmall Business Summit this monthtoeducate localbusinessownersabout ways they cantakeadvantage of this opportunity to create long-termsuccess
TheSummitisset forTuesday,Oct.29, from 10 a.m. to 1p.m.and is beinghostedinpartnershipwith TheNew OrleansAdvocate|The Times-Picayune
It willtakeplace at thenewspaper’s offices at 840St. CharlesAvenueinNew Orleans. Attendeescan look forward to speakersfromthe GreaterNew Orleans Sports Foundation (the SuperBowlhostcommittee) andthe GreaterNew OrleansRegionalEconomic DevelopmentFoundation(GNO, Inc.), as well as twolocalsmall business owners.Additionally, attendeescan expect aspecial guestappearance by aplayerfromthe NewOrleans Saints Anyone interested in attendingmay register by visiting https://web.cvent.com/event/f4dc3aa36ac8-4954-a4f1-b275b12fa42d/summary. Questionsmay be submitted in advancebyemailing louisianatownhallquestions@gmail.com
Seth Hachmeister, senior director of business salesfor VerizonBusiness, said theSummitwillbe especially valuable to smallbusinessownersand customers, communityorganizations,and local government leaders.
“It’sagreat opportunitytosee howeventslikethe SuperBowlimpactthe community. NewOrleans knowshow to handle bigevents, butwewantto discusshow smallbusinessescan really benefit from them,” Hachmeistersaid. “We’re here to help these businesses stay connectedand provideexceptional servicetotheir customers. Whetherit’smanaging
online orders, handling an influxofphone calls, or otherchallenges, we’recommitted to keepingNew Orleansconnected,evenwhenthingsget busy.” Hachmeisternoted that arecent survey from VerizonBusiness, in partnershipwithMorning Consult, indicatedthatnearly70% of Louisiana smalland midsizebusinessesanticipateincreased demandaroundthe upcoming SuperBowlLIX on Feb. 9, 2025.Inpreparation,these business owners areinvesting more in technology,marketing,and staffing,aswellasimplementinginnovativemarketingstrategiesand optimizing theiroperations. Thesurveyresults willbediscussed in more detail during theSmall Business Summit.Other topics on theagendainclude planning,socialmedia strategies,collaboration,website development, marketing, andflexibility. VerizonBusinesshas made it aprioritytosupport thedigital needsofsmall businesses,which are vitaltolocalcommunities but oftenlackresources available to larger companies. Keyareas of focus includemobility, connectivity,and cybersecurity. In addition,Verizon SmallBusinessDigital Ready is afreeonlineresourcedesignedtoassist diverse andunder-resourced business owners.The platform providesaccesstomorethan40courses,mentorship, peer networking,one-on-oneexpertcoaching, and incentives such as grantfunding “Verizon Business is committedtoproviding our smallbusinesscustomerswitha suiteofintegrated toolsthatwillgivethemthe technologicaledge they need to succeed, such as Business Unlimited Plans, OneTalk, andmore,”Hachmeister said.“Our field teamsworkclosely with oursmall business customersevery daytodrive reinvention. The growth anddigitizationwehaveseenfromsmall businesses over thepastfew yearshaveplayeda largeroleindirectlyhelping ourcustomers navigate implementing technology solutions. This rapid adoption is notaone-size-fits-allapproach, andour team hasworkedarm-in-armwithour customers.” VerizonBusinessprovidesadvancedcommunication,technology andnetworkingsolutions to businesses of allsizes.Withits global network infrastructure, VerizonBusinessenables organizationstoimprove operationalefficiency, drive innovation andensureconnectivityfor employees andcustomers, regardless of theirlocation. Visit www.verizon.com/businesstolearn more
STAFF PHOTO BY CHRIS GRANGER
The Skeleton House on St.Charles Avenue in NewOrleans features alot of Taylor Swift-themed skeletons
STAFFPHOTO BY BRETT DUKE Metairie Humane Dog Shelter will host Howl-O-Weenie PetFest, afree family event Oct. 26 in Kenner
MOUNT CARMEL ACADEMY: Mount
Carmel celebrated therenovation of its historic motherhouse on Oct. 3, with Archbishop GregoryM.Aymond presiding over Mass. Themotherhouse wasoriginally completed in 1926.The renovated building features29,000 squarefeet of new art studios, music rooms and religionclassrooms, along with spaces for faculty collaboration. The restoration preserved theSisters’ original chapel, nowthe third chapelon MCA’scampus.
NOCCA: The New Orleans Center for CreativeArts TheatreArts Department will perform the award-winning children’s play“The Boyatthe Edgeof Everything” Oct. 23-24 in Lupin Hall at NOCCA’scampus, 2800 ChartresSt. in New Orleans. Curtain is 7p.m. nightly. Tickets are$15,available on Eventbrite or at the door. www.NOCCA.com.
CHALMETTE HIGH: CHSLivepresents ‘Frankenstein 1930,” astageadaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic novelonOct. 24-26, 7p.m., at the Chalmette High Cultural Arts Center, 2600 Palmisano Blvd. in Chalmette. Ticketsstart at $10 via Eventbrite. www.sbpsb.org
BROTHER MARTIN HIGH: TheDionysians theaterwill present “The Addams Family” on Oct.24-26 and Nov. 1-2 at theauditorium on campus, 4401 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans. Curtain is 7p.m. for evening performancesand
2p.m. for matinees. Reserved seats $20; general admission $15.brothermartin.com/drama.
MARY’SDOMINICAN HIGH: Dominican’s tennis and pickleball tournamentwill be held Oct. 25, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.,atCity Park Pepsi Tennis Center, 5900 Marconi DriveinNew Orleans. The tennistournament starts at 8:30 a.m.The pickleball clinic will be 8-9:30 a.m., followed by the pickleballtournament, 10 a.m.2p.m. Entry fees are: $85 perteam, $40 per beginner clinic with alocal proand $25per spectator.www.stmarysdominican.org.
NEW ORLEANS CENTER FORCREATIVE
ARTS: Ticketsare on sale for NOCCA’s culinary arts, entertainmentproduction design, and performing artsdepartments’immersivediningand entertainment experience, “Last Dinneron the Titanic Nov. 1, 6p.m., at NOCCA’s Lupin Hall, 2800 ChartresSt. in New Orleans. Guests will be served cocktails and afour-course meal, andactors will perform as historical characters who were onboardfor theship.Ticketsstart at $150 via Eventbrite.nocca.com
URSULINE ACADEMY: Ursuline’s alumnae homecoming Mass and brunch will be held Nov. 3, 9:30 a.m., at the National Shrine of OurLadyof Prompt Succor, 2701 State St., and in the Ursuline Courtyard, 2635 State St. in New Orleans. Gayle Parmelee, class of 1948, and Patricia“Paddy”Pittman Barattini, class of 1974, will be honored as distinguishedalumae, along with anniversary and jubilee classes.Brunch tickets start at $40. www.uanola.org.
MCAStudent Ambassadors PenelopeAnderson, Amelia Hunter,Katherine Howat, Casey Swanson, Juliet
and
Zhang stand with MCA Principal Beth Ann Simno, center,onthe balcony during the MCAmotherhouse blessing
Frightfully fun
David Laville, of the New Orleans Ghost Hunters, willdiscussthe haunted history of New Orleans especially vampires —at two libraries thismonth. At 7p.m. Oct. 23,he’ll be at the River Ridge Library,8825 Jefferson Highway.At 7p.m. Oct. 24, he’ll talk at theOld Metairie Library,2350 Metairie Road.
Laville’slecture will focus on the city’sstatus as one of the most haunted cities in America, including new information about the vampires of the city New Orleans has had aregular scheduleof catastrophicevents such as hurricanes,majorfires, epidemics and wars that take alot of peopleabruptly to the other side, he says, although some didn’tquite make it allthe wayover LaVille says he began to experience paranormal activity at ayoung age, which eventuallyled to his cofounding of theNew Orleans GhostHunters. With dozens of residentialand numerous historicalsite investigations on his resume, he’salso hostedtwo radio shows, one local and another national on internet radio, where the haunted history and locations of New Orleans are often discussed. He and the New Orleans Ghost Hunters have appeared on television shows, have been writtenabout in local papers and are often invited to give panels at sci-fi conventions. He is a licensed New Orleans tour guide specializing in haunted toursofthe French Quarter
SCARYSTUFF: Halloween celebrationsare taking place at anumber of libraries. Belle TerreLibrary, 5550 Belle TerreRoad, Marrero
Westwego n Family Halloweenmovie andcraft, 6p.m.to8 p.m. Oct. 30. BASEBALL BOOK TALK: Derby Gisclair,alocal author and historian, will discuss hisnew book, “The1910 NewOrleans Pelicans –A MomentinMinor League History,” at three Jefferson Parish Libraries. n 6p.m.Oct. 28 –TerrytownLibrary,680 Heritage Ave., Terrytown n 7p.m. Oct. 30 –Old Metairie Library,2350 Metairie Road, Metairie n 7p.m.Nov.7—East Bank Regional Library,4747 W.Napoleon Ave.,Metairie. The1910 New Orleans Pelicans played in the Southern Association and won their second league pennant. One sportswriter ranked them as the greatest sports team in the history of New Orleans. The team was owned and managedbyCharlie Frank ShoelessJoe Jackson was amember of the team. Jackson had previously played forPhiladelphia in theAmerican League, and owner Connie Mack sent him on loan to thePelicans for the 1910 season.
Jackson had a.354 batting averagefor New Orleans to winhis third minor-league batting title. He also led the league with 82 runs scored, 165 hits, and19triples, andhe was praisedfor “his sweet swing andeffortless skills in the outfield.” This was Jackson’sonly season with the Pelicans. Later that year,hereturned to the American League with the Cleveland Napsand batted .387 in 20 games.
Gisclair, alifelong resident of New Orleans, is amember of theSociety of American Baseball Research. He heads the Schott-Pelican Chapter of SABR in Louisiana and is on thenominating and selection committees for the Greater New Orleans Professional Baseball Hall of Fame.
He haswritten several other books, including “Baseball in New Orleans,” “The Olympic Club of New
n Halloween bingo, 2p.m. to 4p.m. Oct. 26 East Bank Regional Library, 4747
W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie
n Movie “The Watchers,”
5p.m. to 8p.m. Oct. 29
Gretna Library, 102 Willow St., Gretna
n Storytimewith craft: It’sHalloween, 10:30 a.m. to noon Oct. 26
Harahan Library, 219 Soniat Ave., Harahan
n Storytime with craft for toddlers:10a.m. to 10:30a.m. Oct. 30
n Storytime with craft: 3a.m. to 4p.m. Oct. 31. Lakeshore Library, 1000 W. Esplanade, Metairie
n BroadwayMurder Mystery: HauntedHouseTour, 6p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Oct. 29
n Read and sing storytime: 10:30 to 11 a.m. Oct. 30.
n Movie night: “Creature from the Black Lagoon, 6p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 30 Live Oak Library, 125 Acadia Drive,Waggaman n Saturday matinee: “Hotel Transylvania,” 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct.26.
n MurderMystery: “Horror on the Haunted House Tour,” 2p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Oct. 26.
n Monday movie: “Five NightsatFreddy’s,” 5p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 28
n Campfire ghost stories: 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Oct. 30 Old MetairieLibrary, 2350 Metairie Road
n Storytimewith craft, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Oct. 29. RiverRidgeLibrary, 8825 Jefferson Highway,River Ridge n Children’sHalloween party,6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 29. Rosedale Library, 4036 Jefferson Highway,Jefferson n Movie “Hocus Pocus,” 2p.m. to 4p.m.,Saturday, Oct. 26. West Bank Regional Library, 2751Manhattan Blvd., Harvey
n Halloween charm bracelets, all day Oct. 26
n Witches Brew Hand Print, all day Oct. 27 n Storytime with craft, 11a.m. to noon Oct. 28. Westwego Library, 635 Fourth St.,
NewOrleans Ghost Hunter David Laville,left,will talk about NewOrleans haunts Oct. 23-24 at Jefferson Parish libraries. Here, he and Casey Crouch, right, investigate the home of Crouch’s grandparents in Bush. Theyreport noises and objects being moved throughout the home.
STAFF PHOTO BY FRANKIE PRIJATEL
Orleans –The Epicenter of Professional Boxing, 1883 –1897,” “Early Baseball in NewOrleans –AHistory of 19th Century Play,” and “New Orleans Steamboat Stories –The Brief Lives of Mississippi Riverboats.”
LITERATURE WORKSHOP: In collaboration with the Consulate General’sOfficeof the Dominican Republic in New Orleans, JPL will host aliterature workshop for children ages 6to18from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Oct. 25,
at the Belle Terre Library 5550 Belle Terre Road, Marrero.
Local author Maria Twena will read stories in Spanish. Other presenters will explain the beautiful culture of Dominican Republic.
PUZZLE SWAP: From 1to 4p.m.Oct. 23 at the Harahan Library,219 Soniat Ave., Harahan, patrons can swap puzzles for new ones to take home. Patrons also can stay and enjoy afriendly puzzle competition.
LINE DANCING: Abeginners’ level line dancing class will occur from6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24, at the River Ridge Library,8825 Jefferson Highway,River Ridge. PAUSE FOR VOTING: Library programming at the East Bank Regional Library and the West Bank Regional Library will be limited for ashort period to accommodate early voting, which will occur in the meeting rooms. The rooms will not be available fromOct. 15 to Nov.6
ChrisSmith is manager of adultprogramming at the Jefferson Parish Public Library
ST-H AV E ST YL ES
ToupsFamilyMeal hostsmobile pumpkinpatch
ABOVE: Volunteers begin loading for delivery. TOP: Pumpkinswaitingtobedelivered.
PROVIDED PHOTOS
Toups Family Meal, anonprofitfounded by chef Isaac Toups and hiswifeand partner,Amanda, toprovide food security to families in need, hosted aPumpkinDrive, amobile pumpkinpatch. TheOct. 5event involved 40 volunteers delivering600 pumpkins, decorating kits and 1,200 pizzas throughoutOrleansand Jefferson parishes in advance of Halloween.
Powering Progress
HEALTH SCREENINGS: DePaulCommunity Health Centersand ConcernedCitizensfor a Better Algiers arepartnering to providefree mobile sexual health and generalwellness screenings at theCCFBA Office, 1417 NunezSt. in Algiers. The screenings,which includefree STI and HIV testing, referrals for treatment and case management,and blood pressure and glucosescreenings,are free and available to thepublic Nov. 12 and 26, Dec. 10 and 24, 2-6 p.m.(504) 362-1066.
BLOOD DRIVE: TheDames de Perlage is holding ablood driveNov.3from11a.m. to 4p.m. at Zony Mash Beer Project, 3940 Thalia St. in New Orleans. The event, withfood and drink available and achance to watch theSaints game will benefitOchsner Blood Bank and Culture Aid NOLA, theno-stigma, no-questions-asked, twice-a-week healthyfood bank. Makeablood donation appointment at obbportal.team448. com.
Colonial Garden Club hearsabout medicinal herbs
Colonial GardenClubheld its October meetingatthe Harahan homeofRoma Gibson-King. President Margaret Seale ledthe meeting, with aprogram by Carol Logrecco on ‘Herbs —Edible andMedicinal.’ Shown, from left, are MargaretSeale,Gibson-King andCarol Logrecco.
“For nearly acentury, theU.S. Gulf Coasthas been centraltoShell’s business and theU.S. energy supply. By investinginour Louisiana assets,we arelowering emissions and supplying thenextgeneration of energy.”
ShellinLouisiana is shapingthe future of energy. With thousands of Shellmen andwomen across thestate,weare workingevery daytoreduce emissions,while increasing efficiency in our operations
Our tomorrowdepends on whatwedotoday. Together,weare powering progress fora brighterfuture. Louisiana is where we live and we’reproud to call it home.
PROVIDED PHOTO
FESTIVALS
TOPTACO: The food competition will be held Oct. 24 at LafrenierePark, 3000 Downs Blvd. in Metairie. Area restaurants, bars and catererswill compete for prizes. Activities include livemusic, acostume contest, mechanical bull, performances by the Lucha Kreweand NOLA Nightlights and goat yoga. Proceeds benefit local nonprofits. This is a21-and-older event. Tickets start at $85. toptaconola.com.
DEUTSCHES HAUS OKTOBERFEST: Local and visiting bands playtraditional and not so traditional German songs, dancing, schnauzer parade, food, desserts, wine and plenty of beers at 1700 Moss Street, New Orleans, Oct. 25 from 4-11 p.m. and Oct. 26 from 1-11 p.m. at Deutsches Haus,1700 Moss St., New Orleans. Tickets are$10.oktoberfestnola.com. TREME FALL FESTIVAL: The celebrationofthe cultural heritage and history of the Tremé neighborhood, Oct 26, 11 a.m. to 6p.m., includes music, food, and arts to raise money to support the preservation of St. Augustine Catholic Church, the oldest African-American Catholic parish in the country.Second Line begins at 10 a.m. Location is the 1100 block of Henriette Delille.
JAPANFEST: The Japan Club in New Orleans and the Consulate General of Japan in Nashville will host adaylong event celebrating Japanese culture10a.m.-4 p.m. on Oct. 26 at the New Orleans Museum of Art, 1Collins Diboll Circle in New Orleans. Activities include art, performances, food, martial arts demonstrations and vendors. $10, $5 for NOMA members. Those 19 years and under areadmitted free. my.noma. org/6343/japan-fest.
OAKSTREET PO-BOYFESTI-
VAL: The celebration of New Orleans’s favorite sandwich will be held Oct. 27 on the 8100-8700 blocks of Oak Street, with aKids Zone a Saints game-watching area, acelebrity-judged po-boy competition, food and beverage vendors and livemusic. Wristbands start at $10.www poboyfest.com.
VOODOOFEST: Thefestival celebrating the Voodoo religion’s contributions to New Orleans’ traditions will be held Oct. 31, 1-7 p.m., at Voodoo Authentica of New Orleans Cultural Center & Collection, 612 Rue Dumaine in the FrenchQuarter. Activities include educational and cultural presentations,book signings, practitioner-made potion oils and gris gris bags, morethan 100 varieties of locally handmade Voodoo dolls and crafts, spiritual work and consultations, art, music and free refreshments. An ancestral ritual will be performed at 7p.m. Free.www.voodooshop.com.
COMMUNITYEVENTS
BIG USED BOOK SALE: Over 65,000 items for sale Oct. 25-27 at the Pontchartrain Center, 4545 Williams Blvd. in
Kenner. Items includegently used adultand children’s books, puzzles,DVDs, CDs, andrecords, most priced from 50 cents to$3. Cash and credit and debit cardswill be accepted. Free.Hours are 10 a.m. to 7p.m. daily and noon to 5p.m. Sunday.For moreinformation,call the Friends of the Jefferson Public Library at (504) 455-2665 or e-mail friendsjpl@Yahoo.com. All proceeds benefit Jefferson Parish Libraries
TAYLOR SWIFT PREPARTY: The Rink, 2727Prytania St. in New Orleans, willhosta free family-friendly Swiftie-themed party beginning at 3p.m. on Oct. 25 and 26. Activities include listening toTaylor’s tophits, aface glitter station, Swiftie-themedcocktails and snacks. ASilent Disco opens at 7p.m. with aspecialEras Bar menu featuring themed drinks that celebrateTay’s music. Ticketsare $15 via Eventbrite and includeheadphones and music channels. www.therinknola.com.
TOUCH-A-TRUCK: Ticketsare on sale through Oct.31for the Junior LeagueofNew Orleans fundraiser, tobeheld 9a.m.-4 p.m. on Nov. 2atthe Pontchartrain Convention & Civic Center,4545 Williams Blvd. in Kenner. Additionalactivitiesincludeachild-sized coloring wall, amarket and more. Advance tickets$12; VIP tickets $20. Ticketscan be purchased at thedoor (no cash). Children 1and under are admitted free.jlno.org/ touch-a-truck. MOONLIGHT MARKET: Crescent City Farmers Market will hold aspecial marketonNov 14, 6-9 p.m., at 500 N. Norman C. Francis Parkway.The event will includefood,gardento-glass cocktails, pop-ups and livemusic. Tickets, $60, include entry,food and beverages. Early birdtickets
Japan Fest takes place Oct. 26 at the NewOrleans
Taikodrummers, from Houston, performata previous fest.
areavailable through Oct. 20. Day-of tickets are$75, available Nov. 14 and at the door This event is 21+. No pets. www.crescentcityfarmersmarket.org.
MOVIES
BACK TO THE GRETNA DRIVE-
IN: Gretna continues its movie series in October at the Gretna Amphitheater,Huey P. Long Avenue at the river. Free movies start at 6:30 p.m. The Oct. 26 film is “Wish.” Costumes encouraged on Oct. 26. www.gretnala.com.
CULTURE&CONCERTS
THURSDAYSATTWILIGHT:
The concert series featuring musicians, mint juleps and morecontinues 6-8 p.m. on Thursdays at the Pavilion of the TwoSisters at the New Orleans Botanical Garden, 1
Victory Ave. in New Orleans. Oct. 24 is the BoogieMen. Admission is $15. NewOrleansCityPark.org.
BACK TO THE RIVER: Gretna continues its free concert series in October at the Gretna Amphitheater,Huey P. Long Avenue at the river. The Oct. 25 concert is Typically Booked. Food truck vendors will be on-site. www.gretnala. com/departments/tourism/. “DRACULA”: New Orleans Ballet Theatrewill perform aballet inspired by Bram Stoker’s classic horror novel Oct. 26-30 at the Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Wayin New Orleans.Performances begin at 8p.m. on Oct. 26 and 30 and at 2p.m. and 7p.m. on Oct. 27. Tickets start at $38.50 through Ticketmaster. www neworleansballettheatre.com.
MULTICULTURAL SOUNDS OF LOUISIANA: Lyrica Baroque
CLUB SNAPSHOTS
will present an evening of Latin American music featuring Latin American artists and composers performing newly commissioned works, student compositions and side-by-side performing of students and professional musicians on Oct. 29, 6-8 p.m., at the New MarignyTheatre, 2301 Marais St. in New Orleans. Free; suggested donation of $10. Tickets through Eventbrite. lyricabaroque. com.
BOOKS
“WHO LET THE NERVES OUT?”: Local author Loreal Ivory will read from her book for story time on Oct. 26, 11 a.m., at the Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com.
“HAUNTINGLYGOOD SPIRITS”: Author Sharon Keating, along
431 Exchangegrads gather to plan scholarship awards
The Adult Education Center was founded by Dr.AliceGeoffrayin1965 to educate primarily African Americanwomen for jobs in themostlyWhite corporate officesofNew Orleans.Ithad 431 original graduates.These graduates and theirformer teachers supportthe 431 Exchange, ascholarshipprogram encouraging continuing education for Louisiana adult students. Original graduates gathering to plan upcoming scholarship awardsfor this year are, from left, Cecile Scorza,Donna Doublet, Dorothy Payton, ShirleyRondeno, PauletteRobertson, Dr.Sandra O’Neal, CarolynT.Bell, Linda Phoenix Teamer,Merial Hall, AEC Faculty Sharon Rodi,Joyce Nu’Man and Hilda Smith. Not pictured is Joyce Armstead.
Jefferson Art Guild names top September artist
Jefferson ArtGuild named Sarah Bachemin the Artist of the Month for September.She is shown here with her painting ‘Dragon Queen.’
“’TIL
Westbank ArtGuild honors artist of the month
The Westbank ArtGuild recognized its Artist of the Month competition winners for September.Pictured from left are PennyBaker,‘NOMTOC Parade,’ first place; MaryCaceres, ‘Waterfall,’second place; and PeggyDeleryPospisil, ‘Canada Goose,’third place.
St. Charles ArtGuild names top artists for October
St. Charles ArtGuild has named its Artists of the Month for October.Pictured from left are Ann Clement, first place, with her watercolor,‘Marie Laveau’; Sharon Woolf, second place, with her watercolor, ‘Crab’; and Carolyn Clausing, third place, with her watercolor, ‘Crystal Vases.’Work will be displayedduring October at the Eastbank Regional Library, 160 W. Campus DriveinDestrehan.
STAFFPHOTO BY CHRIS GRANGER
Dayofthe Dead face painting waspartoflast year’sTop Taco event, which is Oct. 24 at Lafreniere Park
PHOTO BY SHAWN FINK
Museum of Art. Shown here, Kaminari
