“I was Dorothy My hair was in braids, and I wore red shoes,” Vanderhooft recalled “That’s when I fell in love with Mardi Gras.” Today, Vanderhooft’s zeal for Carnival is evident in her Old Metairie home. A Christmas tree is festooned with pur-
An Old Metairie mom is handing down Carnival-decorating custom to her young daughters ä See CUSTOM, page 2G Amy Vanderhooft decorates her home both outside and inside for Mardi Gras, something she has been doing all of her life. Over her mantel is a collection of Krewe of Muses decorated shoes.
BEADS & GOOD DEEDS
Ready, set, roll. The Carnival parade crush is upon us with the first really big week of parades. Here’s what to expect.
Cork
n Friday, 3 p.m., French Quarter
The rambling 400-member Royal Street walking parade is dedicated to sipping and sloshing vino, while sharing custom-made beads and other throws. www.thekreweofcork. com.
Oshun
n Friday, 6 p.m., St. Charles Avenue
route
The Krewe of Oshun is named for the Yoruba goddess of love and intimacy
The peacock is the krewe’s symbol, and hand-decorated fans are its
Music, costumes and smiles galore were on display recently at the 44th annual B’nai B’rith Mardi Gras Mitzvah Makers parade at Touro Infirmary in New Orleans. Volunteers visited patients in long-term care and rehabilitation, as well as at the nearby Laurel Senior Living facility, who are unlikely to experience Mardi Gras on the routes. Mitzvah means “good deed.”
signature throw. For more information visit the krewe Facebook page.
Cleopatra
n Friday, 6:30 p.m., St. Charles Avenue route, starting at Jefferson Avenue
Named for the legendary Queen of the Nile, the all-female parade began rolling in 1972, previously on the West Bank. kreweofcleopatra.org.
Pontchartrain
n Saturday, 11:30 a.m., St. Charles Avenue route, starting on Napoleon Avenue
Established in 1975, the parade once rolled in New Orleans East, along its namesake lake. Look for the signature floats titled Super Grouper and Mr
Mudbug and occasionally celebrity grand marshals. www.kofp.com/ parade.
Legion of Mars
n Saturday, noon, St. Charles Avenue route, starting on Napoleon Avenue
Named for the Roman god of war, the Legion of Mars Carnival krewe was founded 10 years ago by combat veterans to honor people who have served in the military and civilian first responders. legionofmars.com.
Choctaw
n Saturday, 2 p.m., St. Charles Avenue route, starting on Napoleon Avenue
ä See
page 2G
STAFF PHOTO BY JOHN MCCUSKER
STAFF PHOTOS BY JOHN MCCUSKER
CUSTOM
Continued from page 1G
ple, green and gold ornaments and ribbons. Nearby, a shelf is lined with trinkets that Vanderhooft has caught at parades over the years Dozens of decorated high heel shoes sit waiting for Vanderhooft to give them away as she rides in the Krewe of Muses parade. And finally, along a staircase leading to the second floor the wall is filled with photos from past Carnivals Vanderhooft has spent with family and friends.
“I learned decorating from my mom and my two grandmothers when I was a child,” Vanderhooft said.
“And we still decorate for every holiday — and especially for Mardi Gras.”
Long-distance Carnival
After graduating from the University of Georgia, Vanderhooft lived away from New Orleans for a few years.
“I would always check to see when Carnival would begin every year I was away,” Vanderhooft said. “Wherever I have lived, I always decorated my home.”
PARADES
Continued from page 1G
The parade, which has a Native American theme, first rolled on the West Bank in 1939, using 10 former U.S. mail wagons as floats In 2013 Choctaw began parading on St. Charles Avenue. Look for the krewe’s signature hand-decorated wooden tomahawks. www kreweofchoctaw.com.
Freret
n Saturday, 3:30 p.m., St. Charles Avenue route, starting on Napoleon Avenue
Founded in 2011 by a handful of Loyola University grads, the Krewe of Freret is devoted to Carnival traditions and New Orleans’ musical heritage, as the enormous, animated Trombone Shorty float attests. Hand-decorated masks are the group’s signature throw. In 2022, the Krewe of Freret welcomed members of the newly formed, all-female Krewe of Themis to its parade lineup.Themis, which is inspired by the Greek goddess of justice, broke away from the erstwhile Mystic Krewe of Nyx. www.kreweoffreret.org
Spartan Society
n Saturday, 5:30 p.m., St. Charles Avenue route, starting on Jefferson Avenue
Formerly known as the Knights of Sparta parade, the krewe adopted the new title in 2022, when the formerly all-male krewe was joined by the Mystical Order of the Phoenix, founded in 2020.
The traditional, flambeauxlit parade, which first rolled in 1981, is named for the mighty Greek warrior state.
Pets & parades
Stick to fur baby-friendly events like the Krewe of Barkus
We are gearing up for the peak of a fun-filled Carnival season, and you may want to bring your pets along for the parades. But don’t. Generally speaking, a parade route is not a safe place for pets. With the exception of parades like the dog-centric Krewe of Barkus, coming up Feb. 23 and including a pre-parade and post-parade pawty at Armstrong Park, four-legged members of your krewe should be left safe and secure at home.
I told her I could get my own shoes at the parades, so I made a counteroffer Instead of shoes, I would rather have a chance to ride in Muses. She agreed, and my first ride (in Muses) was last year.”
Vanderhooft is also a member of the Muff-a-Lottas Dance Troupe, which features 1950s and 1960s costumes and music. The group participates in several parades and performs year-round at various functions.
A Carnival ‘crazy story’
Family and friends also help with decorating. They include Vanderhooft’s three daughters: Scarlett, 9; Juliette, 7; and Florence, 2.
“I really like decorating the shoes for Muses,” Juliette said. “My favorite part of decorating is using yellow glitter because yellow is my favorite color.”
“For me, I think it’s fun to both decorate and trim the shoes,” added Scarlett “At first, it was hard to learn how to trim. But now it only takes me about an hour and a half to trim one shoe.”
knightsofsparta.com.
Magical Krewe of MadHatters
n Saturday, 5 p.m., Metairie. The founders of this coed club named it after the literary classic “The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland.”The interactive parade features live music and a host of celebrities. madhattersparade. com.
Pygmalion
n Saturday, 6:30 p.m., St. Charles Avenue route, starting at Jefferson Avenue
Formed in 2000, the krewe reveres King Pygmalion from Greek mythology, a sculptor who fell in love with his own ivory statue of a nymph, which subsequently came to life www.kreweofpygmalion.org
Femme Fatale
n Sunday 11 a.m., St. Charles Avenue route, starting on Napoleon Avenue
Founded in 2013, the parade is composed of female riders that toss collectible handdecorated compact mirrors that are meant to symbolize “a constant inward and outward reflection.” www mkfemmefatale.org
Carrollton
n Sunday, 12:30 p.m., St. Charles Avenue route, starting on Jefferson Avenue
Formed in 1924 by a group of Oak Street businessmen, the all-male Krewe of Carrollton is New Orleans’ fourth-oldest parading organization.Throws include hand-decorated shrimp boots. kreweofcarrollton.org
King Arthur
n Sunday, 1:30 p.m., St.
Vanderhooft shared what she calls a “crazy story” that fulfilled her dream to ride in Muses.
“In 2022, my husband, Josh, and I had our house for sale in Lakeview,” Vanderhooft said. “We had a lot of potential buyers who came through our home, which was decorated for Mardi Gras. One day my real estate agent called me and said there was someone who was interested in the house but had one condition.
“The buyer said that if we sold her the house, she would give me a Muses shoe every year for life.
“I grew up listening to the ’50s and ’60s music with my parents, so this group is a great fit for me,” Vanderhooft said. “And as much as I love riding in Muses, there is something special about walking, being able to see my family at the parade and all the happy faces along the route.”
As for decorating at Carnival, Vanderhooft said she is confident that her daughters will carry on the family tradition. “I absolutely believe they will,” Vanderhooft said. “If one day my kids live out of town, I want them to remember all the memories we have made decorating with the family and friends.”
Charles Avenue route, starting on Jefferson Avenue
Formed in 1977, the co-ed Knights of King Arthur began as a West Bank parade that krewe moved to the Uptown route in 2001. Parade fans vie for glittery Holy Grails tossed from 40-plus floats. kreweofkingarthur.com.
Barkus
n Sunday, 2 p.m., French Quarter
An annual 15-block procession of costumed canines, the concept for the Krewe of Barkus dog parade first came about at a meeting of television meteorologist Margaret Orr’s fan club kreweofbarkus.org
Atlas n Sunday, 4 p.m., Metairie route The 200-riding-member krewe rolls during the Jefferson Parish Family Gras celebration.
Mystic Krewe of Music
n Monday, 6 p.m.,West Bank
route starts at Berger Road and goes up Ames Boulevard to the West Bank expressway. New last year the parade includes men and women of all nationalities, races and religions without bias.Throws include a signature musical pillow www.mkom.org
Druids
n Feb 26, 6:15 p.m., St. Charles Avenue route, starting on Jefferson Avenue
The krewe composed of mysterious representatives of an ancient Celtic sect, debuted in 1998. Expect flourishes of social satire.
ALLA
n Feb 26, 7 p.m., St. Charles Avenue route, starting on Napoleon Avenue In 2024, Krewe of ALLA was moved from its customary spot on the first Friday of the official Carnival season to its current place on the Wednesday before Mardi Gras.ALLA first rolled in 1932. Riders toss hand-decorated Genie Lamps. kreweofalla.net.
At most parades, the crowds, sirens and marching bands can be overstimulating, even downright terrifying, for some pets. Beads and trinkets flying in all directions and hitting the ground can also pose a danger Plus, excited paradegoers trying to catch throws could potentially step on our furry friends.
The potential to lose a pet is greater in these sometimes-chaotic situations. If a dog feels stressed, he may go into flight mode. If he ends up lost on a parade route, it may be challenging to find him. It’s also important to keep in mind that some paradegoers may not be pet-friendly They might be intoxicated or have small children that are fearful of animals. It is best not to put a pet in a situation where he can be in danger or pose a danger to others. Even if your dog is super social and friendly, when put in a high stress environment, such as on a parade route, he may bite out of fear
Those hosting festivities at home may want to consider keeping pets in a room behind closed doors, safe and away from the action. Guests may not be as careful as we are with making sure the pets do not escape out of an opened door
But it’s not all doom and gloom for pets this Carnival season. There is some pet-friendly parade fun to be had for those easygoing, laid back and well-behaved pets.
The Mystic Krewe of Barkus is celebrating its 32nd anniversary with the theme Vanity Fur: Barkus Rules the Runway
The pre- and post-parade pawties will include petrelated booths, adoptable dogs, food, music and more from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm. The parade starts at 2 p.m. and follows a 15-block route through the Vieux Carré, stopping at the VIP Reviewing Stand at Good Friends Bar, corner Dauphine and St. Ann streets, where VIPs will toast the Royal Court. This parade gives pet owners and their canines the opportunity to register to be a part of the krewe or to watch from along the route. Pet-friendly parades generally are lower key than traditional Mardi Gras parades that have large floats, loud music and bands, and lots of throws. The bottom line: Use your best judgment when deciding if the family dog should take part in even the pet-friendly Carnival festivities. Have a plan to leave the route if he seems anxious or stressed. When in doubt, nothing beats the safety and security of home. The pets do not understand or care if they don’t see Mardi Gras. Once the parades have passed, check your surroundings for Carnival remnants. Potential dangers such as food items, glass bottles, trash and plastic could be left behind after the street sweepers have come and gone. For more info on the Mystic Krewe of Barkus parade, visit kreweofbarkus. org.
Traci D. Howerton is the volunteer manager for Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO), a nonprofit, volunteerbased, no-kill shelter For more information on ARNO, visit www animalrescueneworleans. org.
PET OF THE WEEK
Machete is a scruffy and bouncy year-old terrier mix. He is super smart, house-trained, and knows how to keep the fun going Fetch is one of his favorite games. He’s also a big fan of snuggles with people, but he prefers to be an only dog To learn more, email adopt@animalrescue neworleans.org
PROVIDED PHOTO
FILE PHOTO BY SOPHIA GERMER Pet parades like the Krewe of Barkus, coming up Feb 23, shy away from big floats and marching bands to help keep the pups calm.
Scarlet and Juliet Vanderhooft check out their mom’s collection of throws.
STAFF PHOTOS BY JOHN MCCUSKER
Amy Vanderhooft at her Metairie home along with daughters Juliette, 7; Florence, 2; and Scarlett, 9
FILE PHOTO BY BRETT DUKE
The Mystic Krewe of Music, whose signature throw is a musical pillow, will parade Monday on the West Bank.
SCHOOLS
Brother Martin honors seven faculty members
Staff report
Seven Brother Martin High School faculty were honored recently during the Brother Martin High School Partners in Mission annual faculty recognition ceremony at the Audubon Tea Room.
David G. Rhodes received the 2025 Brother More Schaefer, S.C., Faculty Award for Excellence in Instruction, Commitment to Student Formation and Demonstration of Christian Witness. Rhodes, who has taught biology, biology honors, and anatomy and physiology was also honored for his 40 years of service to Brother Martin and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. He started teaching at Brother Martin in 1985.
Tommy Smith, 2025 Founders Medal recipient and a member of the class of 1971; and David Gallo, chairman of the board of directors and a member of the class of 1977.
Tommy L. Smith, a member of the Brother Martin class of 1971 and a former teacher and coach, was recognized as recipient of the Founders Medal for courage, commitment, passion and perseverance in upholding the founders’ spirit. Other faculty members who were recognized for their years of service to Brother Martin include Kelly Alexander, 30 years; and 20-year employees
David Rhodes received the Brother More Schaefer S.C. Faculty Award at the annual faculty recognition ceremony.
Kevin Caparotta, class of 1988; Ryan Gallagher class of 2000 and Brother Martin principal; Thomas Leggett and Ryan Zeringue.
Brother Martin cheerleaders win national title
Brother Martin’s cheerleading squad won first place in the Large Varsity Coed Division II at the 2025 UCA National High School Cheer Competition held at Walt Disney World’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando recently. This is the Crusaders’ fourth title and second back-to-back championship, having won in 2020, 2021 and 2024. Cheerleading head coach is Jessica Spitale Fresina Standing from left are squad members Gavin Mazerat, Justin Guilbault, Madden Diaz, Bradley Godbold, Cameron DuMontier James Weimer Kalob Tran, Preston Bulloch, Dale Zauner Spencer Stringer, Camryn Capella, Benjamin Eisterhold, Grant Goings, Thomas Luong Bailey Anderson, Aidan Diaz and Brock Meliezer Second row is Ella Matthew, Addie Orillion, Ryann Rownd, Simone Gaudet, Nola Simoneaux, Jeanne Marie Savoie, Annabelle Browning, Elise Turner Aubrey Lazo, Sarah Reinhardt, Emma Masson, Darah Richard, Abigail Spiess, Ainsley Lloyd and Sarah Nicoll Seated are Riley Danos, Abigail Thieneman, Lucia Jouandot, Bri Shook, Gabrielle Cummiskey, Abbey Schell, Sophia Becnel and Lauren Snider
Dominican Debs tops in state
Jazz, Pom Open and Game Day; technique awards in Jazz and Open; choreography awards in Jazz and Open The Debs coach is Fran Moran and moderator is Sina Baldwin The Debs are, front row from left, Aubrie Duplantis, Ava Windmeyer, Madison Pearce, Madison Minor, Alivia Goertz and Kaelin Fisse; second row, Clarie Kirsch, Delaney Hedrick, Maggie Domingue, Remi Layne Hernandez, Lucie Burke, Kaitlin Vlosich, Lena Tabony and Coach Fran Moran; third row, Moderator Sina Baldwin, Cecilia LaGraize, Ava Stack, Brenna Tamborella, Gracyn Sapp, Rosemary Cantrelle, Adair Hoke and Molly Evans
SCHOOL NOTES
MORRIS JEFF COMMUNITY SCHOOL: Morris
Jeff senior Tristan Yates has been awarded a Posse Scholarship to Tulane University. This full-tuition leadership scholarship, awarded through the Posse Foundation, recognizes each winner’s outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities and dedication to personal and community growth. Yates is a member of the track and field and crosscountry teams and is a member of the marching band.
ST. BERNARD PUBLIC SCHOOLS: Four music students from St. Bernard schools were named to the Louisiana Music Educators Association District 6 Honor Bands. Lacoste Elementary School fifth grader Lola Schneider was third chair clarinet and performed with the elementary honor band. Chalmette High School students Samantha Thornton, Orlando Espinosa-Martinez and Daniel Marchiafava were chosen for the high school honor band and will perform at the Chalmette High Talented Music recital on April 3 at the CHS Cultural Arts Center.
BENJAMIN FRANKLIN ELEMENTARY/MIDDLE
MATHEMATICS & SCIENCE SCHOOL: The middle school will host an open house Feb. 19, 9-11 a.m., for prospective students and their families at 3649 Laurel St. www.babyben.org.
JEFFERSON PARISH SCHOOLS: The application window for magnet schools for the 2025-2026 school year is open through Feb. 28, 5 p.m. Jefferson Parish magnet schools specialize in STEM, arts integration, international baccalaureate and dual language immersion. Enrollment is application-based, and seats are granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
MOUNT CARMEL ACADEMY: The Mount Carmel Cubs Against Destructive Decisions club has raised $1,000 for Anna 4 Paws, a nonprofit that provides first-aid kits and training for working canine teams. The fundraiser was inspired by a visit from the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office K-9 division during Red Ribbon Week, where students learned about detection dogs and their role in law enforcement.
MCCADD officers are Olivia Sibal, president; Lillian Godbold, chairlady; Madison LeBlanc,
co-secretary; Izzy Foster, vice-president; and Caroline St.Pierre, co-secretary. MCCADD’s moderators are Beth Anne Merida, Daniel Casanova and Michelle Caluda.
CHALMETTE HIGH: Jeffrey Pash, general counsel of the National Football League, met with 100 Chalmette High students for a Super Bowl week talk and Q&A. Pash, who has worked with the NFL for more than 40 years, talked about his journey from Harvard Law School to his current position, his most challenging and memorable moments in litigation and advice for students.
ST. BERNARD PUBLIC SCHOOLS: St. Bernard School System has announced its outstanding support employees for the 2024-2025 school year: Kolud Hinnawi, Arabi Elementary; Kayla Thonn, Arlene Meraux Elementary; Lendall Stevenson, Chalmette Elementary; Ann Robin, Joseph J. Davies Elementary; Destiny Ducote, J.F. Gauthier Elementary; Lisa Collins, Lacoste Elementary; Janice Santiago, W. Smith Jr. Elementary; Kandis Hunt, Andrew Jackson Middle; Nina Alveris-Varnado, N.P. Trist Middle; Clarika Winding, St. Bernard Middle; Angela McCormick, Chalmette High; Miranda Rogers, C.F. Rowley Alternative; Alvin Bailey, maintenance and transportation; and Kim Raimer, central office.
St. Bernard Parish Public School Superintendent Doris Voitier left, and Chalmette High School Principal Will Schneider right, talk with NFL General Counsel Jeffrey Pash during his Super Bowl week visit to the school.
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Members of the Mount Carmel Cubs Against Destructive Decisions club present their donation to Anna 4 Paws. Pictured from left are Olivia Sibal, Lillian Godbold and Madison LeBlanc, club members; Adrian Thompson, Anna 4 Paws founder and a detective with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office; Dr Margaret Trumbel, veterinary partner; and Izzy Foster and Caroline St. Pierre, club members.
Yates
St. Bernard student musicians who made LMEA District 6 honor bands are, front row from left, Lola Schneider and Samantha Thornton; back row, Daniel Marchiafava and Orlando Espinosa-Martinez.
PROVIDED PHOTOS
Principal Ryan Gallagher, at left, is pictured with Brother Martin faculty members Kevin Caparotta, David Rhodes, Kelly Alexander, Thomas Leggett and Ryan Zeringue.
Greg Rando, Brother Martin president and member of the class of 1977, is shown at left with Johnny LeBourgeois, 2024 Founders Medal recipient and a member of the class of 1973;
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The St. Mary’s Dominican High Debs have won the Sweepstakes Award, outscoring more than 30 other teams, at the American All Star Louisiana State Dance/Drill Team competition held in January at the Cajundome in Lafayette. Additional awards for the Debs include state champions in Open and Game Day; second place in State in Jazz; third place in State in Pom; Division II champions in
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Craft landing:
The Jefferson Parish Library has a new creative learning resource called Craft & Hobby that features thousands of classes taught by recognized experts who walk patrons through each technique with stepby-step demonstrations, providing tips along the way With Craft & Hobby, patrons can explore in-depth online instructional videos and classes that span 22 creative categories, allowing them to learn a new hobby or improve their skills in an existing area. Craft videos focus on painting and drawing, sewing, crocheting, knitting, and quilting. For example, the following examples can be found under painting videos:
n How to hold a pencil like an artist.
n Tips for using tracing paper
n Simplified portrait structure.
n Cleaning and storing brushes.
n Composing a floral still life.
Hobby videos focus on four categories: Cake design, photography woodworking and fitness. Titles include:
n Intro to modeling chocolate.
n Time-lapse photography
n Advanced table saw techniques.
n Yoga for holistic health
To find this new resource, visit the JPL website, then click on the Online Databases tab in the top righthand corner Scroll down the left-hand side of the page for the heading Craft & Hobby SALUTE TO DAVID LYNCH: Mike Miley, author of a new book titled “David Lynch’s American Dreamscape,” will discuss the director’s films, answer questions, and sign copies of his latest work from 2 to 4 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 23, at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. The book uses literary and musical works as a lens to explore and interpret the director’s filmography, broadening a traditional visual approach to film analysis. Incorporating children’s literature, teen tragedy ballads, and even Lana Del Rey, Miley’s book elucidates the way works interact with each other in an age of mass media and popular culture.
Miley teaches literature at Metairie Park Country Day School and film studies at Loyola University New Orleans. He is the author of “Truth and Consequences: Game Shows in Fiction and Film” (2019), and the co-editor of “Conversations with Steve Erickson” (2021).
LOUISIANA FILM NIGHT: Al Heavener, a longtime library employee, will host the movie “Blue Bayou” at 6:30 p.m. Thursday Feb. 27, at the East Bank Regional Library. The film centers on Antonio LeBlanc, a Korean adoptee raised in a small Louisiana bayou town. He’s married to the love of his life, Kathy and raising his stepdaughter, Jessie. Struggling to make a better life for his family, he must confront the ghosts of his past after learning that he could be deported from the only country he’s ever called home
“Blue Bayou” is a 2021 American drama written and directed by Justin Chon. The film stars Chon, Alicia Vikander, Mark O’Brien, Linh Dan Pham, Sydney Kowalske, Vondie Curtis-Hall, and Emory Cohen.
Heavener will discuss the movie before it is screened. The film lasts nearly 2 hours. It debuted at Cannes in 2021. 3D PRINTING: A one-hour seminar on the library’s 3D
Printing Program will take place at 10 a.m., Tuesday, March 11, at the East Bank Regional Library This free event explores how library patrons can use 3D printing, also known as
additive manufacturing, a process that creates a physical object from a digital model. MAYBE BOOK CLUB: Members have moved their meetings to 1:30 p.m. on the third
Friday of each month at the Gretna Library, 102 Willow Drive, Gretna. The following books will
Mustangs Club gathers for holiday happening
The Mustangs Club social organization gathered between Christmas and New Year’s Eve for holiday festivities at The Cannery
Serving as the club’s entertainment chairman was Andre Menzies, with Greg “Beau” Perrault as the master of ceremonies for the evening.
Commemorative
The Big Easy Wing of the Commemorative Air Force has announced its officers for 2025.
Pictured in the back row, from left, are James Myrkis, treasurer; Rick Wood, safety officer; Shirley Colomb, adjutant; and Kris Caldwell, operation officer In the front row are Bill Alverez, executive officer; Roger Jeffrey, education officer; Harold Buchler, unit leader; and Terry Clausing, maintenance officer Not pictured is Mike Scott. The Commemorative Air Force was founded to preserve in flying condition a complete collection of combat aircraft flown by all military services and selected aircraft of other nations.
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PROVIDED PHOTO Jefferson Art Guild selects artist of the month
Artist Gerry Claude was selected as the featured artist of the month at the January meeting of the Jefferson Art Guild. She is shown here with her oil painting ‘Fall on the Bayou.’
Garden Club learns about hummingbirds
The Colonial Garden Club in River Ridge met in February at the home of Trudy Corona, with co-hostesses Marie Noya and Alma Dunlap. The program was a presentation on winter hummingbirds by Jane Patterson of the Audubon Society From left are Trudy Corona, Jane Patterson, and Margaret Seale, club president.
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BY JANE LEGROS
1401 S. Carrollton Ave.
n Feb. 19: Central City Library, 2020 Jackson Ave.
n Feb. 20: Mid-City Library, 4140 Canal St.
n Feb. 26: Central City Library, 2020 Jackson Ave. Visit nolalibrary.co/BlackHistory-Month for recommendations of what to read, watch, and listen to this February TAX DROP-OFF: New Orleans Public Libraries throughout the city will be stationed as quick-serve, property tax drop-off locations on Feb. 26-28.
brary, 3014 Holiday Drive. City employees will be available at each drop-off location from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The Black History Month storytimes are from 10:3011:30 a.m at these dates and locations:
n Feb. 19: Nix Library,
so art should speak to the history of Black labor, worker’s movements, and how the labor of African Americans shaped history and culture in the U.S and beyond All entrants will receive a free book. Top winners in each grade category will receive a gift card. Firstthrough third-place winners in each grade category receive a printed poster of their artwork. To enter, artists must live in or go to school in Orleans Parish and be in grades K-12. Visit nolalibrary co/BHMAC-2025 for rules, details and to submit your work
n Norman Mayer Library, 3001 Gentilly Blvd.
n Mid-City Library, 4140 Canal St.
n Algiers Regional Li-
Submit sealed envelopes containing no more than three property tax stubs and payments. Cash will not be accepted, and receipts will not be provided. For more information about how to pay property taxes, please visit nola.gov/ property-tax. DRINK AND BE MERRY: Learn how to create a delicious mocktail using seasonal fruits and fresh herbs, and taste test sample concoctions on Feb. 24 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at
Keller Library & Community Center, 4300 S. Broad St. Barcelo Gardens’ bartender-turned-farmer will lead this workshop, including how to make your own flavored syrups, herbs to grow and harvest this season for optimal freshness and flavor, and tips for converting your mocktail to a cocktail.
SENSORY STORYTIME: Every Friday in February, families looking for a welcoming and comfortable space for neurodivergent children are invited to Sensory Storytime at Algiers Regional Library, 3014 Holiday Drive. These smaller, adaptive storytimes are inclusive and accessible to all, including children who are physically and developmentally challenged, ages 2-5 years old. This program is designed to help children explore their senses and learn in a way that is both fun and engaging, through stories, sensory bins and more. It is sponsored by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation and supported by the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library Space is limited and registration is required. Visit events.nolalibrary.co/sensory-storytime to sign up.
Jane LeGros is the director of marketing and communications for the New Orleans Public Library
Master of ceremonies Greg ‘Beau’ Perrault, left, is joined at the Mustangs Club holiday party by Byron Johnson Sr and Lenny Moran.
From left, Vance Vaucresson, Jim Singleton, Rauol Chavin and Tracy Mercadel enjoy the Mustangs Club holiday social event.
PROVIDED PHOTOS BY MALCOLM JOHNSON JR
Attending the Mustangs Club holiday festivities were, from left, Andre Menzies, Rivers Frederick III, Bert Dupré, Marlin Gusman, Michael Alvarez and Lucien Gauff.
Rodney and Niva Greenup Jr with Inez and Roy Glapion attend the Mustangs Club holiday party.
MARDI GRAS
FAMILY GRAS: The free, three-day concert celebration will be Feb. 2123 at Mardi Gras Plaza, 3300 block of Veterans Memorial Boulevard in Metairie, will feature local and national artists including Zebra, Kansas, Amanda Shaw and Gary LeVox, lead singer of Rascal Flatts. VIP passes available for purchase. www.visitjeffersonparish.com.
KIDS KREWE DU MARKET PARADE: The German Coast Farmers Market parade will be Feb. 22 10 a.m., at Destrehan Library, 160 W. Campus Drive in Destrehan. Registration opens at 9:30 a.m. at the welcome booth. Children are invited to be krewe members riding in their decorated wagon floats. www.germancoastfarmersmarket.org.
MARDI GRAS DANCE: The Krewe of G-Old Timers Mardi Gras Dance will be held Feb. 27 at the Edward A. Dufresne Community Center, 274 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway in Luling. The event is for St. Charles Parish seniors 55 and older, who are encouraged to wear Mardi Gras attire. Doors open at 10 a.m., with the event taking place 11 a.m.-2 p.m. RSVPs are due by Feb. 17. (985) 783-5090 or bit.ly/SeniorMardiGrasDance.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
“A TRIBUTE TO HAROLD BAQUET: PICTURING BLACKNESS”: A free exhibition on Black culture that includes the work of 10 New Orleans photographers will be on display through April 1 at the Diboll Design Center, Loyola University’s Monroe Library, 6363 St. Charles Ave. L. Kasimu Harris, a photographer and writer, curates the exhibition, which honors the legacy of Baquet, who spent 30 years photographing the city. Open Monday-Fridays, 8 a.m.5 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. www.loyno.edu.
SUPER TAX DAY EVENTS: Entergy New Orleans will offer its customers free tax preparation at upcoming events throughout New Orleans. Qualified Entergy customers can walk in and receive assistance from IRS-certified volunteers. The events will be held March 15, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., at the East New Orleans Regional Library, 5641 Read Blvd., and March 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at Algiers Regional Library 3014 Holiday Drive. www. entergy.com/freetaxhelp.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH: The NORD Commission will host a program on Feb. 20, 6-8 p.m., at Lyons Recreation Center, 624 Louisiana Ave. in New Orleans. The free event includes music and entertainment. nordc. org/home.
FAMILY GAME NIGHT: The NORD Commission will host a games night on Feb. 21, 5-7 p.m., at Morris FX Jeff Rec Center, 2529 Gen. Meyer Ave in New Orleans. Online registration is available. nordc.org/activities/
family-programs-activities/.
CULTURE AND CONCERTS
COURTYARD CONCERT: The Historic BK House & Gardens, 1113 Chartres St. in New Orleans, will host a performance by T Marie & Bayou Juju on Feb. 23, 6 p.m., following the Barkus parade. This is a BYOD (Bring Your Own Dog) event. Dogs must remain on leash. Light refreshments; bring your own favorite beverages. Tickets start at $25. www.bkhouse. org.
HISTORY OF THE BABY DOLLS: Kim
Vaz-Deville will offer a talk on the all-Black women’s Mardi Gras tradition and how Black women have shaped Mardi Gras in New Orleans for over a century. The presentation will be held on Feb. 19, 6 p.m., at the Historic BK House & Gardens, 1113 Chartres St. in New Orleans. Light refreshments will be served. Tickets start at $5. www.bkhouse.org.
BOOKS
“THE SINGING RIVER”: Author Benjamin Morris will celebrate the release of his debut poetry collection on Feb. 25, 7 p.m., at Vino Fine Wine and Spirits, 8314 Oak St. in New Orleans. The event will include readings by Benjamin Morris, Skye Jackson, Nikki Ummel and Rodrigo Toscano and will be followed by an audience Q&A and book signing Tickets, required, start at $5 through Eventbrite. www.bluecypressbooks. com.
HONORS
GREAT LADY/GREAT GENTLEMEN
AWARDS: Tickets are on sale for the Great Lady/Great Gentleman Awards Luncheon, presented by the East Jefferson General Hospital Auxiliary, coming up March 9. Honorees are John P. Blancher, Marian Gibbs, Valarie Hart, Freddie Landry, Tricia Stella Lincoln, Mary Maluccio, Nikki Pontiff and Roland F. Waguespack III. The luncheon is scheduled
HORSES, HOPS AND COPS: The 15th annual fundraiser for the NOPD Mounted Unit, which turns 100 this year will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Feb 19 at the N.O.P.D horse stables, 1021 Harrison Ave. in New Orleans City Park. Attendees can meet the Budweiser Clydesdales, fresh off their Super Bowl appearances
at 11 a.m., at Chateau Country Club, 3600 Chateau Blvd. in Kenner Dmcg417@att.net.
MOVIES
“BLUE BAYOU”: Al Heavener, a long-time Jefferson Parish Library employee, will host and discuss the Louisiana-set movie on Feb. 27, 6:30 p.m., at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon in Metairie. This event is free of charge and open to the public. www.jplibrary. net/.
MEETINGS
REPUBLICAN WOMEN’S CLUB: The Republican Women’s Club of Jefferson Parish will meet Feb. 20 at the Chateau Golf and Country Club, 3600 Chateau Blvd. in Kenner. Registration opens at 11 a.m., with lunch and the program starting at 11:45 a.m. Guest speaker is John Fleming, Louisiana state treasurer. Cost is $40. RSVPs required. RWC.Jeffparish@ gmail.com.
SPORTS SUPERTOTS REGISTRATION: Online registration is open for the spring season of SuperTots baseball and soccer through the St. Charles Parish Department of Parks and Recreation. BaseballTots classes are Mondays at the West Bank Bridge Park, 13825 River Road in Luling, March 17-April 28 and Wednesdays at the West Bank Bridge Park March 19-April 30. SoccerTots classes are Tuesdays at the West Bank Bridge Park, March 18-April 29. Registration is $104-$124 per program. https:// bit.ly/scpparksandrecsupertots. BIG BASS FISHING RODEO: Registration is open for the catch-andrelease bank-fishing tournament, to be held March 29, starting at 6:30 a.m. The event is open to anglers of all ages throughout City Park and along Bayou St. John. Kayakers can compete in the Boats on the Bayou event on Bayou St. John for nonmotorized watercraft. Also included is the free Fishtival featur-
ing music, exhibits and hands-on activities for kids. Registration starts at $10. Maps and registration are available online. NewOrleansCityPark.org.
CAMPS
MARDI GRAS ART CAMP: Registration is open for the Ogden Museum of Southern Art school break camp for children in grades 2-5 on March 6-7, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at the museum, 925 Camp St. in New Orleans. Each day is a full day event. Campers will learn about the culture of Mardi Gras through hands-on activities. Registration starts at $50 per day. ogdenmuseum.org.
SPRING BREAK CAMP: Upturn Arts will host a camp for ages 4-12 during spring break, April 14-18 and April 21-25, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at NOLA Spaces, 1719 Toledano St. in New Orleans. Before and aftercare are available. Registration is $75 per day until April 7; $85 per day after. upturnarts.org.
