Fittingtribute
BY KAREN TAYLOR GIST Staff writer
The 10-foot pumpkin in VincentCatalanottoJr.’s Lakeview yard couldbecalled charmingly imperfect,anold-style handmade Halloween ornament crafted from orange Visqueen over awood-and chickenwire frame. When Catalanotto looks at it,however, he sees something more. He sees hisfather, Vincent Catalanotto Sr Catalanotto Sr., founder of the two Vincent’sItalian Cuisine restaurants that still bear his name, had crafted the same sort of festive decor when his son was young, displaying his own giant pumpkin from about 1987 until about 2000, when his son went off
Lakeview pumpkinsculpture risesagain as ason honors hisholiday-decor-lovingdad ä See TRIBUTE, page 2G
BEST BOOS FOREVER
KEEPINGTHE WEE ONES SAFE
n Stayonwell-lit streets.
n Use the sidewalk.
n Add afew strips of reflectivetape to a costume for nighttime visibility
n Have abuddy system
n Marke suremasks are breathable and easy to see through.
n Avoid accessories likeswords that can cause achild to trip.
n Let children knowtheyshould never enter ahouse to receivecandy.
n Tryglow-in-the-dark bracelets for safety
n Attach asmall flashlight with a carabiner around acandypails.
ä Keytopet safety PAGE 4G
Scoopseeds into acolander and rinse off pulp.Drain well. Measure seeds by the cup into a mixing bowl. For each cup of seeds,
Collecting seeds from a pumpkin
STAFF PHOTO BY SOPHIA GERMER
Vincent Catalanotto Jr whonow owns the restaurants hisfather started, with his wife, Heather,with children Vincent III, 7, and Lucca,10, in front of theirgiant yard pumpkin.
Catalanottos’ Lakeviewstreethelps
TRIBUTE
Continued from page1G
college.
“The first, it waspapiermâch. Awind storm blew it away,and there waspapier-mâché on everyone’scars in the neighborhood (in Metairie).”
JANET ARRUEBARRENA, ex-wife of Vincent Catalanotta Sr.and motherofVincent Catalanotta Jr
The father and son, who shared aclose relationship, had discussed revivingthe tradition. “We said, ‘I have kids now,and we shoul d bring it back,’ said Catalanotto Jr., 42, “but it just never happened.” When his father died recently at age 70, building the giant jack-o’-lanternbecameaway to honor him.
No instructionmanual
The Catalanotto pumpkins have never been picture-perfect.
“The first, it was papier-mâché,” said Janet Arruebarrena, CatalanottoSr.’s exwifeand CatalanottoJr’smother. “A wind storm blew it away,and there was papiermâché on everyone’scars in the neighborhood (in Metairie),” shesaid
“Everyone was forgiving
“The second one, made the sameyear, was (black) Visqueen with orange paint. Thewindblewthe paintoff andgot on everyone’scars.”
Finally,she said, Catalanotto Sr.found orange Visqueen and put it over aframe of his own design.
“Hewas such acharacter,” shesaid “He loved to make people laugh.” Catalanotto Jr.wasn’t abig partofthe building process as ayoungster,but he absorbed the basics. Maybejustnot quite enough of them.
“It’sfunny.Ifelt Iwas very close to my father. Ithought I’d asked every question Iwanted to ask him in life. But when it came to the pumpkin, Ijust didn’task, he said.
That’s likely whyhis jack-o’-lantern’s face is atad fuzzy.Astencil didn’twork, he said, so he ended updoingitfreehand with spray paint.
Becoming atradition
Like their father before them, Vincent III, 7, and Lucca, 10, Catalanotto were only mildly interestedinthe pumpkinbuilding process.
But CatalanottoJr. hopes the tradition might live on. “They knew the story behind it and were intrigued, but they’re kids,” he said. “I thinkif we keep it up,it couldbesomething passed down.”
Holiday decorations were abig part of Catalanotto Sr.’slife, so he founda wayto be certain they were passed down to his son. As Catalanotto Jr.got his own house he was forced into seasonal displays as well,hesaid. “If notfor him, Iwouldn’t have done as muchthe last couple of years. If Ididn’thavedecorations, he would buy them.”
Catalanotto Sr.didn’tlimit himself to Halloween.Vincent III saidhis grandfather built asnowman one Christmas, “but it blew over.”
Catalanotto Sr.alsotried hishandatusing other materials. “He did woodwork, and made amanger scenefor hislawn,” said Arruebarrena. “Mary had six fingers.”
While the elder Catalanotto was wellknown for his restaurants, he mostly kept his artistic side at home. “He was known as aone-of-a-kind person, but many people did not know he had this unique relationshipwith decorating. …The pumpkin is one weird little unique thing he did, and nowadays for someone
to construct something this different, with everyone doing lights or blowups, it’saunique thing that represents him. Like going back in time alittle bit,” his son said.
Email Karen Taylor Gist at kataylor@ theadvocate.com.
Asign explains the significance of the giant pumpkin outsidethe home of Vincent Catalanotto Jr
GERMER
Aviewdownthe
understand the scale of the pumpkin, built in honor of Vincent Catalanotto Sr
Wood is nailed together to support the giant pumpkin. to
FRIGHT NIGHT
While Halloween may be atreat for most of the family, it is not aalways afun holiday for pets. Screaming kids, scary costumes, masks that cover recognizable faces, doorbells constantly ringing and lots of foottraffic canall make forananxiety-filled evening. Here are some tips to keep ourfurry friends safe during the witchinghour:
STAY HOME: The place for pets is at home, indoors, and awayfromthe front door
Traci Howerton
Many neighborhoods go all out for Halloween. Lots of spookydecorations, costumes, music,hayrides and tons of familiesonthe streets. The hustle and bustle of being out maymake some petsnervous and irritable.
ANIMAL RESCUE
Large crowds, tons of kids and shrieks and screams does not make for acalm, relaxedpet If adog is protective, he mayperceive other people on the street as threats to his familyand may snap at someone, especially if they are in costume.Itisalso hard to monitor for dropped candythat adog may consume. Decorations, electrical cords, fog machines and more are all potentialhazards to our pets.
TAUNTING: Some people may be tempted to taunt apet in ayard, even afenced in yard. Candy or objects may be thrown at pets, and black dogs and cats are often targeted duringHalloween.
For the safety of the pet,keep him indoors during trick or treatinghours. If a pet must go outside, make sure heisona leash or supervised in afenced yard
KEEP AWAYFROMTHE DOOR: Groups of kids ringing the doorbell and yelling “trick-ortreat” canbefrightening to pets,especially dogs and cats that are already timid or nervous and not used to visitors. Pets may also try to escape outofthe door.Put up agate or keep them ina room in anotherpart of the home, safe andaway from the temptation to greet visitors or guard their family
AVOID SHARING THE LOOT: Candyisa big“no, no” for pets. It’simportant to store all candy safelyout of reach of the pets, especially chocolate.While not alwaysfatal, consuming chocolate can result in significant illness for both cats anddogs. It contains achemical called theobromine, as well as caffeine.Dogscannot metabolize theobromine and caffeinelike people can. This makes them more sensitive to the chemicals’ effects.
The amount of theobromine varies with thetype of chocolate. The darker and more bitter thechocolate, themore dangerous it is to dogs. Baking chocolateand gourmet darkchocolates arehighly concentrated andcontain 130-450 mg of theobromine per ounce, while common milk chocolatecontains about44-58 mg per ounce.
Signs ofchocolate poisoning can take several hours to develop, and can last for days,and may include vomiting and diarrhea, increased thirst, panting or restlessness, excessive urination and aracing heart rate. In severe cases, muscle tremors, seizures and heart failure can happen. It is important to contact aveterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has eaten chocolate. Other Halloween treats, such as sugarfree candies, contain xylitol, which can cause liver failure in pets. All candy should be off limits. To avoid apotential medical emergency,make sure thekids do not try to share their Halloween goodies with thepets.
COSTUMES AREN’TCUTE TO FIDO: Hoping to getthat perfect social media pic? Stick to dressingupthe humans. Puttingapet in a costume can be very stressful, may impair
vision, restrict walking and cause adverse reactions.
If you simply can’tresist theurge to dress up thepet, make sure the outfit is comfortable and never leavea pet in a costume unattended. Get the photo-op and then get that thing off.
PROPER ID: Identification is the must-have accessory this Halloween: Losing apet is not something anyone wants to experience, but on Halloween, thestress is amplified. Make sure they have proper identification and are microchipped. Accidents can and will happen, even to the best of us. In
Dory, about ayear old, is as cool as asea cucumber.She enjoys simple pleasures in life, likemealtimes, awarmbed, and even free cardboard boxes.She doesn’t mind the companyofother cats, but also could live life as alone shark.She just want afamily that will treasure
the event apet gets lost, having asecure collar and identification tag with current contact information on is the best chance foraquick reunion.
Let’smake this Halloween no tricks and all treats forthe entire family.And remember,nocandy forthe pets.
Traci D. Howerton is the volunteer manager forAnimal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO),anonprofit, volunteerbased, no-kill shelter.For more information on ARNO, visit www animalrescueneworleans.org.
Asurvivor’sjourney from hospital roomstothe TaylorSwift concert
This articleisbrought to youby theChildren’sHospitalinNew Orleans
At just 12 yearsold,KelseyFarrishas facedmore challenges than most people experience in alifetime. Diagnosedatbirth with sickle cell anemia,the most severe form of sickle cell disease, Kelsey’s life has been acontinuousbattlewithhospitalstays,painful crises,and countlesstreatments. Butthankstothe specializedcareshe received at Children’s Hospital NewOrleans andthe selflessgiftofananonymous stem cell donor, Kelsey’s storyhas transformedfrom oneofsurvivaltoone of hope andnew beginnings Sickle cell diseaseisalifelongcondition that causes redblood cellstobecomemisshapenand blockblood flow, leadingtoepisodes of excruciating pain,organ damageandcomplicationssuchasacutechestsyndrome From theverybeginning,Kelsey’s family turned to theexperts at Children’s Hospital NewOrleans where theComprehensive Sickle Cell DiseaseTreatment Program(SCDTP) hasbeenproviding exceptional care for children like Kelsey throughout Louisiana andthe Gulf Southregion.
educationalevent with RyanRoubion, MD
He will answeryourquestions anddiscuss:
•new technologies in knee replacement
•MakoRobotic-Arm Assisted Technology
• SmartRobotics™
To register,scanQRcodeorcall 1888 STRYKER (1 888 787 9537)
Herearlyyearswerespentmanagingpainfulsymptoms with frequenthospitalizations—more than 20 in total—duetoseveresicklecellcrises. “Her quality of life wasdiminishingbecauseshe waslivingwith chronicpainevery day, even when shewasn’tinthe hospital,” said hermother, EbonyFarris. Despitethe hardships, Kelsey’s strength andthe unwavering supportfromher family andcareteamnever faltered In 2023,after yearsofmanagingher condition andexploring everytreatment option,her doctorsat Children’s Hospital,including Dr.Zachary LeBlanc andDr.PinkiPrasad,presentedalife-changingopportunity:a stem cell transplant.Thiscomplex procedure offeredKelseythehopeofacurebyreplacingherfaulty blood-formingcells with healthyonesfroma donor.
Thesearchfor adonor happened quickly, andlast November Kelsey underwentthe transplant.The processwasn’t easy.Itinvolvedchemotherapyto destroyher existing bone marrow,followedbythe infusion of healthydonor cells. Butthe transplant was asuccess andKelsey’sbodybegan producinghealthy redblood cellsfor thefirsttimeinher life Over thelastyearKelseyhas shownremarkable improvement. Herenergyhas returned andshe’s been abletodothingsshecouldn’tbefore.Forherfamily,the transformation hasbeennothing shortofmiraculous. “It’shardnot to getemotionalwhenItalkabout it,” said Ebony. “Itwas such aselfless,generousact from thedonor,and it hascompletelychanged Kelsey’s life.” WhileKelseycontinuestorecoverandworktowards gettingbacktoher regularactivities, herfutureis nowfilledwithpossibility—something her family once only dreamedof. Andasifthe universe wanted to give herone more reasontosmile,Kelsey’sjourneytookanotherexciting turn when thestaff at Children’s Hospital nominated her to be oneofthe luckywinners of Taylor Swift concerttickets.Known forher love of music, Kelsey canhardlywaittoattendthe concertand seeher idol performlive!
“Kelsey’sstrengthand couragehaveinspired everyone around her,”saidDr. LeBlanc. “Seeingher lightupwithjoyovertheconcertticketswasamoment of pure happinessfor allofus.” Kelsey’s storyisa testamenttothe powerof specializedcare, communitysupport andhope. Her journey, from thehalls of Children’s Hospital to the seatsofaTaylor Swiftconcert,shows that even in the face of thetoughestbattles,there’s always room for momentsofcelebration To learnmoreabout Children’s Hospital New Orleanssicklecelltreatmentprogramvisitchnola.org
Help
BY JANE LEGROS Contributing writer
Are you looking for ajob? Do you need help applying for publicassistance? Do you need help practicing your English?
The New Orleans PublicLibrary is hereto help
FORJOB SEEKERS: JOB1 Business and Career Solutions, an agency that offers employment and training services andconnects job seekers to employmentopportunities, comestotwo New Orleanslibraries twice amonth.
Library visitors can connect with JOB1 to find jobs, explore careers, pursueeducation goals, develop leadership skills and receive comprehensiveguidanceand counseling.
Expert coaches are here to helpatany stage in your career,even ifyou’re just starting out. YouthWorksCareer Center works withyouth ages 16-24 to connect with skill-building and jobopportunities. Stop by the following library locations for more information:
n East New Orleans Regional Library, 5641 Read Blvd., firstand third Tuesdays of the month, 10 a.m. to 2p.m
n Algiers Regional Library,3014 Holiday Drive, second and fourth Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 2p.m
PUBLICASSISTANCE: Thelibrary andthe Louisiana Department of Children &Family Services have teamed up to provide help with public assistance application paperwork. They helpwith applying, account maintenance, and questions aboutthe Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Family Independence Temporary
Assistance and Kinship.
Help is provided on afirst-come, firstserved basis, and no appointments are required.
Anyone needing assistance is welcometo stop by these locations:
n Norman Mayer Regional Library,3001 Gentilly Blvd., Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. to 2:30p.m.
n EastNew OrleansRegional Library, 5641 Read Blvd., Thursdays 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
n Visit nolalibrary.co/snap formore information.
TECHNOLOGY: Get help building your computer skills, whether it’susingamouse or applying for ajob online. Visit the library during our tech sessions:
n East NewOrleans Regional Library, 5641 Read Blvd., Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. to noon.
n Algiers Regional Library,3014 Holiday Drive, Wednesdays 11 a.m. to noon, Thursdays 5p.m. to 6p.m.
n Alvar Library,913 Alvar St., Tuesdays and Thursdays 5p.m. to 6p.m.
ENGLISH AS ASECOND LANGUAGE: The library and the NewNeighbor Project are teaming up to present free weekly English as asecond language classes.
Attendees can learn English vocabulary and grammar at Algiers Regional Library, 3014 Holiday Drive. Separate classes for beginners and for intermediate speakers are held every Saturday at 1p.m. English language learners can also practice their conversation skills in arelaxed, funway on Thursdays at the Main Library 219 Loyola Ave., from 1p.m. to 2p.m.
The group open to teens and adults. Visit nolalibrary.co/esl or thenewneighborproject.org formore information. For those looking to improve Spanishspeaking skills, Keller Library hosts a weekly Spanish conversation group every Wednesday from 6p.m. to 6:45 p.m GET CONNECTED: Need additional computer, smartphone or job help? NewOrleans Public Library staffcan connect you with the right resources and organizations to assist you. Call or text (504) 224-8720 to talk to the Adult Learning &Education team
Jane LeGros is the director of marketing and communications forthe NewOrleans Public Library
Powering Progress
Louisiana is at the forefront of Shell’s
“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.”
EMMALEWIS Shell Senior Vice President U.S. Chemicals&Products
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.
STAFF PHOTO BY MICHAEL JOHNSON Orleans Parish librarycardholders can access help with finding ajob,using technologyand more.
PROVIDED PHOTO
The Republican Women’sClub of Jefferson Parishrecently attended the 36thLouisiana Federation of RepublicanWomen Biennial Convention Board Meeting and MembershipConference in Natchitoches. The club won firstplace in DivisionC in community service/caring for America; campaignvolunteer hours; technology; fundraising event
fundraisingmost moneyraised; membership recruitment; newsletter;programs and the Doris Shannon Membership Development Award.RWC member Lynn Duvernay receivedthe Betty Heitman Award for Outstanding Service and Leadership. Tina Payton, club president, wasreelected 1stvicepresident of Region 1, and DebbieAlbert wasre-elected state treasurer.From left are Payton, Susie Labry,Janet Schwary, Barbara Lawler,SandyStubbsand Faith Peperone.
Jefferson Republican women attend stateconference
TheJefferson Parish Library will celebrate its 75th anniversary with akickoff celebration from 1to 4p.m. Nov.9,at the East Bank Regional Library,4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.
The festivities will include:
n Apresentation by library historian Cyril Lagvanec, Ph.D., exploring the history of the library alongside the development of Jefferson Parish
n Aperformance by Da Kulture
Brass Band
n Sign-ups to record with StoryCorps when the organization visitsthe library on Dec. 11 and 13
n The placement of atime capsule featuring materials from the library n Displays charting the changes in the Jefferson ParishLibrary, including previously unseen historic photos from the new Jefferson Parish Archive
n Celebration of the 10thanniversary of the LEGO Club programwith crafts and activities for kids
n Distribution of alist of “75 must-read books” recommended by staff
n Ceremonialcomments from Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng, State Librarian Meg Placke, Jefferson Parish Library Director Jessica Styons, Friends of the Jefferson Public Library President Marie Orth, Jefferson Parish LibraryBoard President Becky Knight and 75th Anniversary Committee ChairNicholasCaluda n Refreshments.
Acake-cutting ceremonywill take place, with the anniversary cake donated by Jean-Luc Albin of Maurice’sBakery and aspecial Jefferson Parish Library75th Anniversary coffee roast from Orleans Coffee Attendees willhave thefirst opportunity to receive 75th anniversary swag, including bookmarks, tote bags and acommemorative library card.
CHECK OUT STATEPARKS: JP Library cardholders can now visit Louisiana’s State Parks as part of apilot program designed to get people
exploring Louisiana.
The program, called Check Out Louisiana StateParks, allows patronstocheck out aday pass for anystate park or historic site, as well as other supplies, at no cost. Theprogram is apartnership between theState Library of Louisianaand LouisianaState Parks. Alimited number of park passesare available during the pilotphase of the program. Patrons can get more than just a park pass, though.The Check Out Louisiana State Parks program includes GeauxExplore backpacks that contain binoculars,acompass, magnifying glass, LeaveNo Trace outdoor ethics cards, and guides to Louisianabirds, wildlife, andtrees andflowers.
StateLibrary cardholders can also check outa pass andbackpack from the StateLibrary in downtown Baton Rouge. For more information,gotoCheckOutLouisiana.org.
ESL CLASSES: The Jefferson Parish Library continues to expand services to those who need to learn English. The following classes are offered.
Citizenship Class n Rosedale Library,4036 Jefferson Highway,5:30 to 6:30 p.m Tuesdays
ESL Class n East BankRegional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., 9:30 a.m. to noon, Mondays and Wednesdays n NorthKenner Library,630 W. Esplanade Ave., 6to8p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays n Gretna Library,102 Willow St., 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Mondays n Terrytown Library,680 HeritageAve., 6to8p.m., Tuesdays n West BankRegional Library, 2751 Manhattan Blvd., 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.,Thursdays (beginning in January) PAINTING FOR KIDS: Aworkshop will be held from 6p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30 at that Belle Terre Library,5550 Belle Terre Road,Marrero, is open to kids of all ages. Supplies are provided. This event will be repeated from 10 a.m. to noon Nov.9,also at the Belle Terre Library BOATING SAFETY: The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will conduct aboating
safety class beginning at 9a.m. on Saturday,Nov.12, at the North Kenner Library,630 W. Esplanade, Kenner.The course includes information on choosing a boat, classification, hulls, motors, legal requirements and equipmentrequirements, manynavigation rules, navigation charts, trailering, sailboats, and related subjectsthat include canoeing, personal watercraftand more. Students whocomplete the course will be issued avessel operators certification card. The class lasts between six and eight hours.
AUTHOR EVENT: Derby Gisclair,a local author and historian, will discuss hisnew book, “The 1910 New Orleans Pelicans —AMomentinMinor League History,” at two Jefferson Parish Libraries. He’ll appear at 7p.m. Oct. 30 at the Old Metairie Library,2350 Metairie Road,Metairie, and at 7p.m. Nov.7atthe East Bank Regional Library,4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.
The 1910 NewOrleans Pelicans played in the Southern Association and won their second league pennant.One sports writer
ranked them as the greatest sports team in the history of New Orleans. Shoeless Joe Jackson was amember of the team.
BOOK CLUBS: Parish libraries offeravariety of book clubs. Here’s what’shappening in November:
n “Ella: ANovel,” by Diane Richards —6 p.m.Nov.14, Live Oak Library,125 Acadia Drive, Waggaman.
n “Lone Women,” by Victor Lavalle —5:30 p.m.Nov.7,Live Oak Library,125 Acadia Drive, Waggaman. Waggaman Mystery Book Club.
n “La Bete Humaine,” by Emile Zola —7 p.m.Nov.4,East Bank Regional Library,4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. French Lit Discussion Group members read the first half,orabout 200 pages.
n “Sometimes ILie,” by Alice Feeney —2 p.m.Nov.19, Old Metairie Library,2350 Metairie Road. Old Metairie Mystery Book Club.
n “Demon Copperhead,” by Barbara Kingsolver —2:30 p.m Nov.19, River Ridge Library, 8825 Jefferson Highway,River Ridge. Jefferson Highway Book Club.
n “Things Fall Apart,” by Chinua Achebe —7 p.m.Nov.19, East Bank Regional Library,4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. Great Books Discussion Group.
n “Town with No Mirrors,” by Christina Collins —7 p.m.Nov 20, Old Metairie Library,2350 Metairie Road, Old Metairie SciFi and Fantasy Discussion Group.
n Any Book Club —True Crime —6p.m. Nov.13, Jane O’Brien Chatelain West Bank Regional Library,2751 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey n “1923,” by Mark William Jones —12:30 p.m.Nov.2,Rosedale Library,4036 Jefferson Highway,Jefferson.
PAUSE TO VOTE: 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 through Wednesday,Nov.6
ChrisSmith is manager of adult programming at theJefferson Parish Public Library
FESTIVALS
NOLA ZYDECO FEST: The festival celebrating Cajun and Creole cultures takes place Nov. 2, 11 a.m.-8 p.m., at Crescent Park, 2300 N. PetersSt. Food options include agumbo competition, and activities include kids’ zone and dance lessons. Music will be provided by Dwayne Dopsie, Koray Broussard, Rusty Metoyer and others. Tickets startat $20. nolazydecofest.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 French Quarter. 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.
PLESSY FEST: The music festival will be held Nov. 2, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at the Plessy Community School Treme campus, 1423 St. Philip St. in New Orleans. Irma Thomas will be honored as Plessy Person of the Year. The event featuring twomusic stages, food trucks, an art market, silent auction and kids’ activities, benefits Homer Plessy Community Schools. www plessyschool.org.
TREME CREOLE GUMBO FESTIVAL: This event takes place Nov. 9-10 in Louis Armstrong Park, 701 N. Rampart St., with food vendors, an arts market and livemusic. Free, with donationboxes set up at the park entrances. www.jazzandheritage.org.
BEIGNET FEST: The fest returns Nov. 16, 10 a.m.6p.m., at City Park’sFestival Grounds, Henry Thomas Drive in New Orleans, with awardwinning favorites and new entries in the beignet categories. Therewill be nonbeignet options likejambalaya, gumbo and fried chicken. Entertainment will include Jon Cleary,Big Sam and Amanda Shaw. Tickets are$20 in advance; children under 3are free. VIP Experience tickets are$50 for adults and $30for under 21. beignetfest.com.
WORDS &MUSIC FESTIVAL: The event will be held Nov. 20-23 at the AndreCallioux Center for Performing Arts and Cultural Justice, 2541 BayouRoad in New Orleans Activities include the Patty Friedmann Writing Competition, presentations by artists and scholars, acelebration of the literary lineage ofthe BlackArts Movement and Kalamu ya Salaam, the Late Night Lit tribute to the late Frankie Beverly and more. wordsandmusic.org
NOLA FOOD FEST: The festival showcasing morethan 40 local and national restaurants, eateries, cafes and food trucks will be held Nov. 23, 1-8 p.m., at CongoSquarein Louis Armstrong Park, 701N Rampart St. in New Orleans. Activities include livebands, games, and interactiveexperiences.Tickets start at $6 via Eventbrite. Kids 8and under arefree. www.TheNolaFoodFest.com.
COMMUNITYEVENTS
CAMP PARAPET DAY: The Jefferson Historical Society and the Jefferson Parish Historical Commission will hold the free event Nov. 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., on the grounds of the historical CivilWar fortification at 2801 Arlington St.inOld Jefferson, twoblocks south of Jefferson Highway.Activities include re-enactors in period military and civilian attire aflag-raising on the hour with rifle salutes, antebellum dancers from the Lagniappe Historic Dance and Pastime Society,and vendorsfrom other historic sites. www.jeffersonhistoricalsociety.com.
CHESS FEST: The event, presented by the HNOC Chess Club, will be held Nov. 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Tate, Etienne, Prevost Center, 5909 St. Claude Ave. in New Orleans. Participants will craft DIY chessboards, playchess puzzle games, watch films, move as “human chess pieces” on agiant chessboardand join afriendly fast-chess tournament. Free; open to all ages and experience levels. Registration is required. www hnoc.org/chess-fest.
TOUCH-A-TRUCK: Tickets are on sale through Oct. 31 for the Junior League of New Orleans fundraiser,tobeheld 9a.m.-4 p.m. on Nov. 2atthe Pontchartrain Convention & Civic Center,4545 Williams Blvd. in Kenner. Additional activities include achild-sized coloring wall, amarket and more. Advance tickets $12; VIP tickets $20. Tickets can be purchased at the door (no cash). Children 1and under areadmitted free. jlno.org/ touch-a-truck.
VETERANS DAYLUNCHEON: The annual luncheon will be held on Nov. 7, 11:30 a.m.,
AROUND THENEIGHBORHOODS
Westbank ArtGuildnames top October artists
at the EdwardA.Dufresne Community Center, 274 Judge EdwardDufresneParkway in Luling. All St. Charles Parish veterans and their spouses areinvited. Guest speaker is KenOertlin, superintendent of the St.Charles Parish Public School System anda Navy veteran.
FOOD FETE: Food Fêtewill be held Nov. 9, 4:50–6:30 p.m., at the Historic New Orleans Collection, 520 RoyalSt. in NewOrleans.Participants can exploreand sample signaturedishes from local restaurants and an openbar featuring wine, champagne, and signaturecocktails. Tickets are$20.https://my.hnoc. org/17150/17152 www. stcharlesparish.gov.
QUARTER KALEIDOSCOPE: The Historic BK House &Gardens will host alivestorytelling event on Nov. 13,6 p.m.,1113 Chartres St. in NewOrleans. Longtime residentsand business owners will share personal stories, bringingto life the shops, restaurants and establishmentsthat have shaped the Quarter for generations.Ticketsstart at $5-$10.www.bkhouse.org.
MOONLIGHT MARKET: CrescentCityFarmers Marketwill hold aspecialmarket on Nov. 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 areavailable through Oct.20. Day-of tickets are$75, available Nov. 14 and at thedoor. This event is 21+. No pets. www.crescentcityfarmersmarket.org.
COIN SHOW: The Crescent City Coin Club will hold its free showonNov.15-16 at The Columbus Room, 3310 Florida Ave. in Kenner.Friday hours are10a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdayhours are9 a.m.-3 p.m. The eventwill feature buying, selling and appraisals of U.S. foreign and ancient coins, paper money,MardiGras doubloons, gold andsilver bullion and coin supplies.
HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE: WYES-TV will host amarket on Nov. 19,4:30-7 p.m.,atthe WYESPaulette andFrank Stewart Innovation Center for Educational Media, 916 NavarreAve.in New Orleans The kid-friendly event will featurelocal vendors, music, food and ascreeningofthe 2006 documentary,“Christmas in New Orleans.” Free www.wyes.org.
MOVIES
“ANCESTRAL ARTISTRY”: The Historic BK House &Gardens will present ascreening of the documentary exploring the architectural legacy of early Africans and Creolesof color in Louisianaon Nov. 7, 6p.m., at 1113 Chartres St.in NewOrleans.Tickets startat $5 for members,$10 for nonmembers.www.bkhouse.org.
COMMUNITY MOVIE NIGHTS: Centered Church will host free movies at Samuel Square, 2100 Napoleon Ave. in NewOrleans. “Inside Out 2” will be shown for Mental Health Awareness Night on Nov. 15, 7-9:30p.m. “The Secret Life of Pets”will be the featureNov.22, 7-9:30 p.m. centeredchurchnola.com.
CULTURE& CONCERTS
RHYTHM &ROSES: The Historic BK House &Gardens concludes its fall concert series at 1113 Chartres St.in NewOrleans with aperformance on Nov. 1byJelly Joseph. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Performance is6-9 p.m. Tickets start at $25 for members, $30 for non-members. www. bkhouse.org.
ALL SAINTS DAY: TrinityEpiscopal Churchwill hold choral evensong on Nov.1,6 p.m.,on the Feast of AllSaints featuring music of theRenaissance. This service of sung evening prayer is led by thechoirand officiant. Trinity is at 1329 Jackson Ave. in NewOrleans trinitynola.com.
FALL CONCERT: TheNew Orleans ConcertBandstarts itsnew season witha free tribute to America’s veterans led by guest conductor Patrick HennesseyonNov.3, 6p.m., at the Robert E. Nims Theatre in theUNO Performing Arts Building,2000 Lake-
shore DriveinNew Orleans. The program includes music by Gershwin and Copland, as well as atribute to Louis Armstrong. www.neworleansconcertband.org.
PUCCINI’SOPERA: The Opera Festa Singers will present agala concert featuring 10 young local operatic performers on Nov. 3, 3-5:30 p.m., at St. George’s Episcopal Church, 4600 St. Charles Ave. in New Orleans. Suggested donation is $15. Tim@ stgeorge-nola.org.
LE PETIT SALONSERIES: The Musical Arts Society of New Orleans will host an afternoon of music with bass baritone Ivan Griffin, pianist Wilfred Delphin and special guest narrator Michael Boucree on Nov. 3, 3p.m at the Beauregard-Keyes Historic House and Gardens, 629 Ursulines Ave. in New Orleans. “Songs of aPeople” will featureworksbyR.Nathaniel Dett, Maria ThompsonCorley, Moses Hogan, and the poetry of Maya Angelou and Langston Hughes. Tickets start at $50. masno.org.
LOOP THERE IT IS: Rabbit Hole Dinner Theater presents a night of musical experimentation and Japanese cuisine on Nov. 3at1228 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. in New Orleans. Cellist Helen Gillet will weave liveloops, improvisation and experimental sounds into aunique performance. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; show at 7p.m. Tickets are$15 in advance via Eventbrite; $20 at the door. rabbitholenola.com
TEENA MAYCONCERT: The Historic BK House &Gardens will host aconcertbythe singer-songwriter on Nov. 7, 6p.m., in the courtyardat 1113 Chartres St. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $25 for members, $30 for non-members. www.bkhouse.org.
THURSDAYSONTHE RIVER:
The free concert series continues at Spanish Plaza, 500 Port of New Orleans Place in New Orleans. Live performances for the month include Reggae and Latin Night on Nov. 7with 2nd Lion Band and Hector Gallardo &The Cuban All Stars; Folk and Soul Night on Nov. 14 with Minos the Saint and JoyClark; and Jazz and Blues Night on Nov. 21 with Treme Brass Band and Alicia Renee a.k.a. Blue Eyes. Performances are5-8 p.m. www.riverwalkneworleans. com.
BOOKS
“HAUNTINGLYGOOD SPIRITS”:
Author Sharon Keating, along with Christi Keating Sumich, will treat attendees to a historical romp through the local barscene and its spirits, celebrating local New Orleans ingredients and hometown mixologists on Oct. 30, 5p.m., at the Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. Book signings will follow. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com.
“LILA SAID NO!”: Story time on Nov. 2atGarden District Book Shop will featurea reading of the children’s book written by Kiki Frayardat 11 a.m. The story follows a charmingly defiant 4-year-old girl. Garden District is located at 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com.
“PHAETON’SWHEELS”: Poet Dennis Formento will launch his new collection of poems on Nov. 3, 4p.m at the Maple Leaf Bar, 8316 Oak St. in New Orleans. Therewill be an open mic afterward. www mapleleafbar.com.
“THE MAN IN THE BANANA TREES: STORIES”: Author Marguerite Sheffer will discuss her debut book with Maurice Carlos Ruffin on Nov. 6, 6:30 p.m., at Blue Cypress Books, 8123 Oak St. in New Orleans. The event will include a reading, followedbyanaudience Q&A and abook signing Tickets are$5; $20 with a signed copyofthe book. www.bluecypressbooks.com.
“PAINTING THE TOWN”: Co-authors John Pope and Susan Langenhenning will discuss their book, “Painting the Town: The Importance of Color in Historic New Orleans Architecture,” at 7p.m. Nov. 14, at the East Bank Regional Library,4747 W. Napoleon Ave. in Metairie. www.jplibrary.net.
PO-BOYFEST BOOK SIGNINGS:
Westbank Art Guild’sArtists of the Month for October are, shown from left, Al Jambon, ‘New Orleans Bridge, first place; Glinda Schafer,‘Glacier Bay,’second place; and Brenda Fortmayer, ‘Myrtle Grove,’ third place.
PROVIDEDPHOTO
Blue Cypress Books, 8123 Oak St. in New Orleans, will host a series of book signingsNov 19 during Po-BoyFest. Chris Clarkson will sign “Chloe and the Fireflies” 10:30 a.m. to noon. Adam Dennis, “Gary and His Little Friend Jerry” 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; Rachel M. Marsh, “Rougarou Magic” 12:30-2 p.m.; Eric Cook, “Modern Creole: ATaste of New Orleans Cultureand Cuisine” 1:30-3 p.m.; Alexandra Navarre-Davis and Shannon Kelly Atwater, “Clyde the Giant Crawfish” 2:30-4 p.m.; MarkRosenbohm will sign his NOLA portraits 3:30-5 p.m.
“CANE RIVER CHRISTMAS”: Local author Denise McConduit celebrates her new children’s book on Nov. 11, 11 a.m., at Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. The story follows Elise and her mother as they visit Natchitoches Christmas Lights festival and eat meat pies. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com.
“THE FLATWOMAN”: Author Vanessa Saunders will discuss her debut book
with Rayna Nielsen at Blue Cypress Books, on Nov. 15, 6:30 p.m., at at Vino Fine Wine and Spirits, 8314 Oak St. in New Orleans. Annell Lopez will read from the book, and an audience Q&A and book signings will follow. Tickets start at $5 and include one glass of wine. www.bluecypressbooks.com.
FUNDRAISERS/GALAS
LA FÊTE 298: URSULINE IN BLACK AND WHITE: Tickets areonsale for Ursuline Academy’s annual fundraiser, to be held Nov. 1, 7-11 p.m., at the school, 2635 State St. in New Orleans. Dress in formal black and white attire for anight of music, dancing and dining. All proceeds will go toward campus maintenance, teacher development programs and technology upgrades. Tickets start at $100. www.uanola.org.
WALK FROM OBESITY: Registration is open for the Nov. 2fundraiser on behalf of the Treo Foundation, to be held at the Audubon Park Walking and Looping Trail, 6500 Magazine St. in New Orleans. Event time is 9:30 a.m.-noon. Online registration is $30 and on-site is $35; children under 12 are free with an adult. www.walkfromobesity.com.
PINS FORPARKINSON’S: The event will raise funds and awareness for Parkinson’s disease on Nov. 3, noon3p.m., at Fulton Alley,600 Fulton St. in New Orleans. Activities include bowling, live music, aSaints watch party, food and drink, photobooth, and more. Registration starts at $55, with children 10 and under $50. give.michaeljfox. org.
VISIONARIES GARDEN PARTY: Afundraiser supporting the New Orleans Museum of Art’s Sydney and Walda Besthoff SculptureGarden and celebrating its 20th anniversary will be held Nov. 8, 7-11 p.m., at the garden, 1Collins Diboll
Circle in New Orleans. The event will include light bites and cocktails. Tickets start at $125. noma.org. GROWING HOME GALA: The fundraiser to benefit
SWBNOlaunchessearchable inventoryasworkbegins to replaceleadservice lines throughout NewOrleans
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
BoardofNew Orleans
This articleisbrought to youbythe Sewerage andWater
TheSewerageand WaterBoard of NewOrleans (SWBNO)has begunthe importantfirst stepsin along-term projecttoremoveleadservice lines throughout thecity. In earlyOctober,SWBNO, in collaborationwith BlueConduit, launched NewOrleans’ first-everwater servicelinematerialinventory,incompliancewith theEnvironmental Protection Agency’s Lead and Copper Rule Revisions. Theinventory is availableasa searchable maponline at swbno.org/Projects/LeadAwareness.Customers cansearchthe inventoryfor theiraddress to seeif theirwater servicelines arelead, non-lead,galvanized requiringreplacement,orunknown SWBNOwillsoonbegin sendingmailnotifications to customerswithlead, galvanized steelorunknown servicelines.The utilitywillalsolaunchafocused efforttoverifyunknown waterservice line materials throughservice line inspections at localschools and public lead servicelinereplacements.
“Weare proudtoleadthe effortinremovinglead servicelines throughout ourcity, andthisinventory is acrucial first step,” said GhassanKorban, SWBNO Executive Director.“Ourcustomersand visitors deservealead-free watersystem,and we arepulling together allthe resources possible to getusthere.”
Here is more information aboutthe projectand howSWBNO is addressing it in both theshort-and long-term.
WhyisSWBNO conducting this project? Is drinking watercurrently safe forcustomers? SWBNO’sdrinkingwater is safe.There is no detectable lead in thewater that leavesSWBNO treatment plants.Thiswater meetsall stateand federalquality standardsfor lead.However,there is lead in some pipesthatbring waterfromSWBNO treatment plants to localhomes andbusinesses, on both thepublicand privatesides of thesystem.
Lead canenter thedrinkingwater throughlead pipesand plumbing fixtures, as it wasacommonly used plumbing material beforeitwas banned by the industry in 1986
WhatisSWBNOdoingtominimizethepossibility of lead entering thedrinkingwater? Onemethodiscorrosion control. SWBNOadds lime,alsoknown as calciumhydroxide,tothe water beforeitleavestreatment plants.Thisminimizes thetendencyfor lead to dissolve into thewater from pipeswhile traveling to localhomes andbusinesses. SWBNOconductsongoing watertesting across the system to confirm that corrosioncontrol is working. SWBNOalsotests watersamples from taps in homes andbuildings that areata high risk of lead or copper contamination. What canIexpecttosee when viewingthe newinventory? Theinventory includes twotypes of data.One is verifiedservice line materials, in whichSWBNO hasarecord of thewater servicelinematerial. The second is unknownservice line materials. These arelocations whereSWBNO does nothavearecord of thematerialusedinthe lines. Theutility used predictive modeling to make educated assumptions aboutthe pipe unknownmaterialwhere possible usingplumbingrecords, lead test kitresults,meter installation dates, parcel data andcensusdata. Theinventory currentlyidentifiesapproximately 15,000 customerswithverifiedleadpipes that willrequire replacement. Approximately122,000
customershaveunknown pipe materialsaswellas 2,200withnon-lead. Thesefigureswillcontinuetobe updatedasSWBNO gathersadditionalinformation andconductsmoreinspections What arethe potentialeffects of beingexposed to lead in water?
Exposure cancause serioushealtheffects among people of allages. However, it canhave particular effects in infants andchildren, includingdecreases in IQ andattention span,aswellasnew or worsening learningandbehaviorproblems.Thechildrenofpeople whoare exposedtoleadbeforeorduringpregnancy mayalsobeatincreasedrisk.
Lead exposure in adults cancause increasedrisk of heart disease, high bloodpressure, kidney or nervous system problems. What cancommunity membersdotoreducethe possible risk of lead exposure? Useonlycoldwater for drinking,cooking and making baby formula When waterhasn’tbeenusedfor sixhours or longer runthefaucetforthreetofiveminutestoflushthelines beforedrinkingorcooking with thewater.Household taskslikeshowering or runningthe dishwasher can also help flush thesystem Requestafreewater pitcherthatfilters from lead by callingthe SWBNOat(504) 52-WATER or submitting arequest online at www.swbno.org/Form/ FilterPitcherRequest. Usingafilter that meetsNSF Standard 53 is recommended. Requestawater test kitbycontactingSWBNO at (504)52-WATERoronlineatwww.swbno.org/ Form/LeadTestingKitRequest What is theSWBNO’s long-termplantoremove lead servicelines? In November 2024, SWBNOwillbegin searching for acontractortomanagethe lead serviceline replacementprogram.Thiscontractorwillmanage allaspects of theproject,including replacements inspections,communications, funding, construction andmore. Replacements of lead servicelines are expected to begininlate2025. This is twoyears ahead of theEPA’s recently finalized Lead andCopperRule Improvements,which establisha 10-yearreplacement timeline for this work Howisthisproject beingfunded? SWBNOhas secured$86 millionfromthe State RevolvingFundfor lead servicelinereplacements, becomingthe firstutility in thestate to do so.In addition,the utilityisapplyingfor another $66 millionavailable from theSRF to supportthis work.There is legislationbeing considered that wouldallow SWBNOtouse thesefunds for private replacements,althoughthe soonestthislegislation couldbeapprovedis2025. SWBNOisalsoexploring fundingopportunities nowavailable throughthe federal Lead andCopper ReplacementImprovements program. If apropertyowner wishes to replacetheir private servicelineimmediately,customersare encouraged to informSWBNO of theirplans.Buildingowners arestill responsiblefor replacinglines within their homesorbusinesses. To findyourhomeorbusinessonthe new inventory, to addpropertyinformationtothe inventory, or formoreinformationonSWBNO’s ongoing lead awarenessand replacementwork, visit www.swbno.org/Projects/LeadAwareness
PROVIDED PHOTO
Three members of the Brother Martin Crusader Band have been selected for the Louisiana Music Educators Association All-State Band. Theyare senior AndrewCooper (percussionist, left) andsophomores Alex Ng(flute player, center) and Michael Chalona (percussionist,right),who allwentthrough an audition process andwill represent Brother Martin in Januaryatthe LMEA Annual Conference.
SCHOOL NOTES
NEW ORLEANS CENTER FOR CREATIVE ARTS: Tickets are on sale for NOCCA’sculinary arts, entertainment production design, and performing arts departments’ immersivedining and entertainment experience, “Last Dinner on the Titanic,”Nov 1, 6p.m., at NOCCA’sLupin Hall, 2800 Chartres St. in New Orleans. Guests will be served cocktails and afourcourse meal, and actorswill perform as historical characters who were onboard for the ship. Tickets startat $150 via Eventbrite. nocca. com.
ST.MARY’SDOMINICAN: Dominican will host Domini-Deb DayonNov.1
4-6 p.m. Girls in grades 3 to 7can come to campus, 7701 Walmsley Ave. in New Orleans, to learn afield routine dance to be performed with the Dominican Debs at the Nov. 2Brother Martin High Schoolfootball game at 3:30 p.m. at TadGormley Stadium. Registration is $45. www.stmarysdominican.org.
THE WILLOW SCHOOL: Prospectivestudents in grades K-12 and their families can attend an open house at one of the school’s New Orleans campuses in November and December.Lower School, 7315 WillowSt., will hold open houses for grades K-4 Nov. 2at10a.m. and Nov. 20 at 6p.m. Middle School, on the Ellis Marsalis campus at 5625 Loyola St., will have its open house Nov. 7, 5p.m., for students entering grades 5-7. Students entering grades 8-12 can attend tour the High School on the Elijah Brimmer campus, 5624 Freret St., on Dec. 5at5 p.m. willowschoolnola.org.
URSULINE ACADEMY: Ursuline’s alumnae homecoming Mass and brunch will be held Nov. 3, 9:30 a.m., at the National Shrine of Our Lady of 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 honoredasdistinguished alumae, along with anniversary and jubilee classes. Brunch tickets start at $40. www.uanola.org.
AUDUBON SCHOOLS: Audubon Schools in New Orleans will host open housesat three campuses. Audubon Uptown’s LowerCampus (grades K-3) will open its doors Nov. 4, 6-7:30 p.m., at 428 Broadway St.; Audubon Uptown’s Upper Campus (grades 4-8), Nov. 11, 6-7:30 p.m., at 3128 Constance St.; and Audubon Gentilly(grades K-8), Nov. 18, 6p.m at 4720 Painters St. Families must register prior to the open house. www auduboncharter.org.
BROTHER MARTIN HIGH: Prospectivestudents in grades 5-8 and their families can attend an open house on the campus at 4401 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans, on Nov. 7, 4-7 p.m. www brothermartin.com.
ST.BERNARD PUBLIC SCHOOLS: Eleven students were recognized as 20242025 Students of the Year, recognizing academic excellence, leadership,extracurricular involvement and citizenship. The students will compete at the district level; winners therewill compete for regional and statewide consideration. n High School Student of the Year: Trey Meyers, Chalmette High. n Middle School Students of the Year: LilyLozes, Andrew JacksonMiddle; RamyDali, N. P. Trist Middle; and Briget Raimundo, St. BernardMiddle. n ElementaryStudents of the Year: Jesse Malone, Arabi Elementary; Alydia Hemstreet-Moss, Arlene Meraux Elementary; Parker Casbon, Chalmette Elementary; Jolie Duhe, J. F. Gauthier Elementary; Aubri Fernandez, Joseph Davies Elementary; Dominick Shreve, Lacoste Elementary; and Laci Banks, W. Smith Jr. Elementary
DominicanHighSchoolscholarsrecognized
Staff report
Students from St. Mary’s Dominican High School have received honors from national scholastic organizations.
Seven Dominican students have received academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs. Allison Breaux, asenior, received the National First GenerationAward.Junior Natalie Cage and senior Mihley Clayton received the National African American Recognition Award.
Seniors Sofia Chanes and Alivia Christiansen and juniors Lillian Cruz and Juli-
anne Sanchez received the National Hispanic Recognition Award.
To be eligible, students must have exceptional grades and test scores and attend school in arural area or small town or identify as African American/Black, Hispanic American/Latino or Indigenous/Native.
Diana Nguyen and Kavya Paramesh, both seniors,
CHALMETTE HIGH: Chalmette senior Elizabeth Grobyhas been named a Commended Studentinthe 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. She will receivealetter of commendation from the school and the National Merit Scholarship Corp which conducts the program. About34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized NOMMA: The NewOrleans Military andMaritime Academy, an open admissions charter school adjacentto the Marine Forces Reserve national headquarters in Federal City,will host a series of open housesfor prospectivestudentsand families ingrades 8-11 Prospectivecadetsand theirparent/guardian must attend an open house for eligibility to apply.The dates are Nov. 7and 19, Dec. 12 and Jan.14and 23, 2025. Doors tothe event, to be held in the school cafeteria, 425 O’Bannon St in New Orleans,will openat 5:30 p.m., with presentations beginning promptly at 6p.m. Register at nomma.net/ admissions.
CHALMETTE HIGH: Senior Orlando Espinosa-Martinez and junior Daniel Marchiafava,music studentsatChalmette, have earnedspots in state-levelmusic programs. Espinosa-Martinez, atenor saxplayer, waschosenfor the Louisiana All StateJazz Band, performing in January 2025. Marchiafava has been selected as amemberofthe AmericanChoral Directors Association AllState Choir toperform inNovember at thechoralconvention.
EDNA KARR HIGH: New Orleans arearecipients of scholarships from the AmericanJudges Associationare Za’KiyaGreen,Nelson Carter III andChancyDe Leon, students at EdnaKarr. The association,the largest association for judgesin North America, presented seven scholarshipsto high schoolstudentsfromLouisiana high schools.Recipientswereselected based on essays asking if aban on TikTok would be constitutional.
THE INTERNATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL OF NEWORLEANS: An open house for prospectivestudents will be held Nov. 6, 5-7:30p.m., at 2733 Esplanade Ave. in NewOrleans. TheInternational Baccalaureate college preparatory charter school, open to all Louisiana residents, is at 2733 Esplanade Ave. Registration is required. www. ihsnola.org.
BENJAMIN FRANKLIN HIGH: Franklin has beennamed a2024 German Centerof Excellence by theAmerican Association of Teachers of German. This honor was given to only two schools in the nation. Rachel Becker, the World Languages department chair, andIrene B. Ziegler offerfive levels of German, three carrying dual enrollment credit. Students can participate in field trips and events.In addition, 35BFHS German students were inducted into Delta Epsilon Phi, the German honor society BROTHERMARTIN HIGH: A Thanksgiving holiday baseball camp for boys6-12 will be held Nov. 25-27, 9a.m.noon, on E.A. Farley Field at the school, 4401 Elysian Fields Ave. in NewOrleans. The three-daycamp will emphasizefundamental skills with Coach Jeff Lupoand the varsity coaching staff and players. The cost is $135 per camper, with registration and payment due by Nov. 21. www.brothermartin.com.
have been named Commended Students in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. In recognition of their outstanding ability and potential for academic success in college, the National Merit Scholarship
We cantalkMedicarewhere youwant
Corporation will honor these students by sending Letters of Commendation to them through their high schools.
Ourpooloflocal licensed salesagentsmakes it easy to find alistening ear, a helpinghandand aknowledgeable voice. We’llconnect youwiththe Medicare Advantageplaninfoyou need.Plus, Humana goes theextra mile to bringyou even more than youexpect. We call it human care
Call alicensedHumanasales agent
CHRISTOPHERHARRIS 504-256-7390 (TTY:711) charris6@humana.com
DEBORAHREID 504-481-8542 (TTY:711) dreid12@humana.com
JAREDBELLOW 504-315-9806 (TTY:711) jbellow@humana.com
Come visitmeat: OCHSNERMAINCAMPUS 1514 JEFFERSON HWY, METAIRIE,LA70121 MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 9:00 AM TO 12:00PM
CONNIE RAMOS
985-212-1034 (TTY:711) cramos33@humana.com
Amorehuman way to healthcare®
AtHumana, it is important youare treated fairly. Humana Inc. andits subsidiaries comply with applicable federalcivil rights laws anddonot discriminate on the basis of race,color,nationalorigin, age, disability,sex,sexualorientation,gender, gender identity,ancestry, ethnicity,marital status,religionorlanguage.English: ATTENTION: If youdonot speakEnglish,languageassistanceservices, free of charge,are available to you. Call 877-320-1235 (TTY:711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN:Si hablaespañol,tieneasudisposiciónserviciosgratuitos de asistencia lingüística Llameal 877-320-1235 (TTY:711). 繁體中文(Chinese)：注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您 可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電877‑320‑1235（聽障專線：711）。
Meyers
EspinosaMartinez Machiafava
Nguyen Paramesh Sanchez
Cruz Christiansen Chanes Clayton Cage Breaux
GRIEF IN THE HOLIDAYS: Kim Smith, bereavementcoordinator andchaplain with Heartof Hospice, will giveapresentation hostedbyBe Well-Come Together on Nov. 2, 10 a.m.,atFaith Church, 2525 Apollo DriveinHarvey. Free.(504) 368-2525bewellcometogether@gmail.com
BLOOD BUDDIES: Dames de Perlage will host ablood driveatZonyMash BeerProject, 3940 Thalia St. in New Orleans, to benefit Ochsner BloodBank and CultureAid NOLA, thenostigma, no-questions-asked,twice-a-week healthyfood bank. The drivewill be held Nov 3, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Therewill beaphoto booth, a make-your-own friendship braceletstation,a Saints watch party and streetfood. All agesare welcome. www.damesdeperlage.org.
BLOOD DRIVE: Hogs for the Causeand several participating teams will host adriveonNov.3, 9a.m.-5 p.m., at the TouhyGym at IsidoreNewman School, 5203 Danneel St. in NewOrleans. Barbecue will be available,and there will be aSaints watch party.Registration is required through the Blood Center. https://bit.ly/TBCHOGS HEALTH SCREENINGS: DePaul Community Health Centers and Concerned Citizens fora Better Algiers arepartneringtoprovidefree mobile sexual health and generalwellness screenings at the CCFBAOffice,1417 NunezSt. in Algiers.The screenings, which include free STI and HIV testing, referrals for treatment and case management, andblood pressure and glucose screenings, arefreeand available to the public Nov. 12 and26, Dec. 10 and24, 2-6 p.m. (504) 362-1066.
BLOOD DRIVE: The Dames de Perlageisholding ablood driveNov.3from11a.m.to 4p.m. at Zony Mash Beer Project, 3940 Thalia St.in New Orleans. The event, with food and drink available and achancetowatch the Saints game, will benefit Ochsner BloodBankand Culture Aid NOLA, the no-stigma, no-questions-asked,twicea-week healthyfood bank. Makea blooddonation appointment atobbportal.team448.com.
COLLEGES
LOYOLA UNIVERSITY: Loyola Presents in the School of Music &TheatreProfessionswill perform the modernadaptation of the15thcentury morality play“Everybody” Nov.14-23 at the LowerDepths Experimental Theater in the Communications/Music Complexat Loyola University,6363St. CharlesAve.inNew Orleans. Curtain is at 7:30 p.m.for evening performances, 2p.m. for matinees. Thisplay containsstrong languageand themes of death anddying. Tickets startat $8. cmm loyno.edu UNIVERSITY OF NEW ORLEANS: UNOgraduate student Patrick Urbine has beenawarded aFulbright Scholarship to research how communities arereimagining car-centric transportation networksinBrazil. Beginninginthe spring 2025 semester, Urbine will spend nine months in São Paulo as he completes his master’sdegree inurban and regional planning. His research project examines howbikinghabits inthe centerofSão Paulo have been impactedby Ruas Abertas, amunicipal initiativestartedin 2015 that temporarily closes roads to cars once aweek for people. Urbine earned bachelor’s degrees in business managementand politicalscience/international developmentfrom Tulane University
Saints’ DemarioDavis donates beds to Covenant House
NewOrleans Saints linebacker Demario Davis and his wife, Tamela,has joinedwith Ashley Furnituretoreplace every bedatCovenant House, ahomeless shelter serving New Orleans youth. This partnership celebrates Davis’ 100th consecutive start, which happened against the Dallas Cowboys. The Davises joineda team of volunteers to help load and assemble the new beds.
Saints’ linebacker Demario Davis, right, at Covenant House
