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N O L A.C O M
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W e d n e s d ay, J a n u a ry 21, 2026
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A dose of Carnival
Mitzvah Makers parade will take music and more to patients at Touro BY EVA JACOB BARKOFF Contributing writer
The rehabilitation floors of Touro Infirmary are always busy with physical therapists and other medical professionals helping patients recover from various injuries. Even though the Uptown parades roll just two blocks away from the hospital, many patients are unable to attend in person. That’s why, on one weekend during Carnival, costumed members of the B’nai B’rith Mardi Gras Mitzvah Makers parade from floor to floor playing traditional music and passing out beads to share the spirit of the season. STAFF PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD The 45th annual event begins at 10 a.m., Jan. 25 at Touro, 1401 Hilton Title, left, plays for Riley Waxman, 2, and dad Michael Waxman.
Foucher St. The members will also bring their Mardi Gras merriment at 1 p.m. to the residents at nearby Laurel Senior Living Center, 1101 Aline St. “Our first year we played at Charity Hospital’s pediatric unit, and over the years, we have also played at other hospitals including Children’s and Ochsner,” Hilton Title, chair of the organization, said. “We average more than 20 musicians, and some have participated for many years. And there is someone who comes from Houston on a regular basis to play.” Title, who plays the trumpet, said the parade will include musicians playing percussion, saxophone, clarinet, tuba and accordion. A second-line will follow the musicians.
“Our first song is ‘Down by the Riverside,’ followed by ‘When the Saints Go Marching In,’ ” he said. “We play many more songs including ‘You Are My Sunshine’ and ‘Mardi Gras Mambo.’ The patients get to experience Mardi Gras in a most unique and accommodating way.” The rehabilitation program occupies Touro’s fourth, sixth and ninth floors, providing inpatient rehab for neurological disorders including stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injuries and amputations. Dr. Yvette Folse is the program’s medical director. “The parade brings so much joy and laughter to the patients,
ä See MITZVAH, page 2G
Left behind Plan for who will take care of your pets if you no longer can
In the animal rescue world, there is a heartbreaking scenario that plays out far too often: A beloved pet suddenly loses its owner, and there is no plan in place for what happens next. With no clear caregiver available, the pet is surrendered to a shelter — grieving, Traci Howerton confused and suddenly without the one person it ANIMAL trusted most. RESCUE It’s a painful situation, and one that is often preventable. Planning for a pet’s future in the event of an owner’s death or incapacity is not something most people enjoy thinking about. However, it is one of the most important responsibilities that comes with pet ownership. Pets depend on us completely, and that dependence doesn’t end just because our circumstances change. One of the biggest mistakes pet owners make is assuming that a family member or close friend will automatically step in. While intentions may be good, pet ownership is a long-term commitment that not everyone is able — or willing — to take on. Changes in health, finances, housing, family dynamics or work schedules can all affect a person’s ability to care for an animal, even if they once agreed to do so. That’s why having a plan, a backup plan and revisiting those plans regularly is essential. Just as careful thought goes into choosing guardians for children, selecting a future caregiver for pets deserves the same consideration. The person you choose will have full responsibility for the animal’s daily care and medical decisions. It’s important to choose someone whose lifestyle, values and expectations align with your pet’s needs — and to have an honest conversation with them about what that responsibility entails. In addition to long-term planning, every pet owner should also have an emergency care plan. Accidents, unexpected hospitalizations or sudden travel can happen at any time. Identify a trusted friend, family member or neighbor who can access your home, if needed. Make sure they know where supplies
ä See PET, page 2G
STAFF PHOTOS BY SOPHIA GERMER
Amanda ‘Tili’ Intili, left, and Bridget Coverick wear their costumes inspired by cone-shaped pollinator flowers.
Carnival flower power Members of the Krewe des Fleurs, a
sustainability-focused walking krewe, debuted their 2026 costumes, designed by member and local artist Amanda “Tili” Intili. Participants gathered by Jackson Square wearing
Katie Austin debuts her costume as French Quarter visitors watch the goings-on. ä More photos. PAGE 4G
Louisiana Local
pollinator plant costumes, then walked around the French Quarter.
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