Crescent City Picayune 01-28-2026

KID STUFF

Little Rascals parade gives children a role in Carnival excitement

BY RACHEL MIPRO

Contributing writer

Forget “Bluey” and “PAW Patrol” — New Orleans-area children are busy gearing up to celebrate a new season of Carnival.

Leading the charge for the young set is the Krewe of Little Rascals, a familiar sight since its founding in 1983 by Jack and Maureen Spittler The children’s float parade, with members ages 2 to 19, will roll in Metairie on Feb. 1 to help kickoff the 2026 festivities.

Jack Spittler Jr said to expect about 50 units, including 10 double-decker floats, with riders throwing beads, cups, wooden nickels, and other goodies.

He and his mother currently are co-captains, keeping the family tradition rolling since his father’s death in late 2023. The 2024 parade was canceled; it returned last year, although without the traditional royalty and kid-centric Carnival ball patterned on the formal adult versions.

“Since my father passed, we have also cho-

sen to have only a parade as we navigate things without him. This will change next year (2027) as we are planning to have a full court and ball experience,” Spittler said.

Royalty is chosen on a first-come, first-served basis. “In the past, we have had a waiting list that anyone could get on as they choose for the open positions. The court typically consists of a king and queen, at least one captain, 10 maids and dukes, a prince and princess, as well as flower girls, heralds, and other attendants,” he explained.

The balls offer the same pomp and circumstance of traditional Mardi Gras. “We have a full dress ball masque where our captain presides over the presentation of our king and queen and their court. There’s nothing better than seeing all the kids in their costumes,” Spittler said.

He talked about his parents’ inspiration in forming the krewe.

“After spending years in the Krewe of Aquila

ä See RASCALS, page 2G

In south Louisiana, we know that winter weather can change in the blink of an eye. One day we’re enjoying temperatures in the 70s, and the next we’re reaching for coats as temperatures plunge into the 30s or lower — overnight. While our pets may wear fur coats year-round, cats and dogs feel the cold just like we do. Most animals in our region simply aren’t accustomed to prolonged freezing temperatures. A good rule of thumb remains the same: If it’s too cold outside for us, it’s too cold for our pets. Here are some important reminders and tips to help keep our pets and community cats — safe, warm, and healthy during extreme cold snaps.

INDOORS IS BEST: Dogs that normally spend time outdoors should be brought inside when temperatures approach freezing. This is especially important during arctic conditions, when wind chill can make temperatures feel even colder If a pet absolutely cannot come indoors, make sure they have proper shelter

Shelters should be sturdy, dry, raised off the ground, and protected from wind and rain. Doghouses should not be oversized, as smaller spaces retain body heat better Line shelters with clean, dry bedding such as straw, towels or blankets, and change bedding frequently to keep it dry Positioning the entrance away from the wind; using a flap can also help keep warmth inside.

FRESH

Continued from page 1G

or allowing access to a safe, enclosed space can provide lifesaving warmth during arctic nights.

KNOCK ON THE CAR HOOD: Neighborhood cats often seek warmth under car hoods or inside wheel wells. Before starting your vehicle, make it a habit to knock on the hood or honk the horn to alert any cats hiding inside. This small step can prevent serious injury or worse.

PROTECT PAWS AND SKIN: Cold weather can be harsh on paws and skin. Wipe your pet’s feet after walks to remove residue Limit bathing during cold weather as frequent baths can strip natural oils and cause dry, flaky skin.

KEEP CHEMICALS OUT OF REACH: Antifreeze and rodent poison are commonly used in winter, and both are extremely toxic to pets. Antifreeze is especially dangerous because of its sweet taste. Always store chemicals securely and clean up spills immediately KNOW THE LAW: Louisiana statute RS 14:102.1 defines failure to provide proper shelter as simple cruelty to animals. Proper shelter means protection from the elements to prevent unneces-

sary suffering. Beyond the law, it’s simply the right thing to do. Prolonged exposure to cold can lead to hypothermia, frostbite and even death Having a cold-weather plan for all pets is essential. Check on elderly neighbors to ensure both they and their pets are staying warm. Finally if you see something, say something. If an animal is left outdoors during freezing weather without adequate shelter, contact your parish shelter or local authorities.

Let’s make sure no pet is left out in the cold

Events

JAN. 31: A PetSmart adoption event takes place at 6851 Veterans Blvd., Metairie, from noon to 4 p.m Meet puppies and dogs from Animal Rescue New Orleans. All approved adopters will receive a coupon book from PetSmart and a new bed from ARNO. For more info, email adopt@animalrescueneworleans. org.

Traci D. Howerton is the volunteer manager for Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO), a nonprofit, volunteer-based, no-kill shelter. For more information on ARNO, visit www.animalrescueneworleans. org.

PET OF THE WEEK

PROVIDED PHOTO

At about 15 weeks old, Quarter Pounder has stirred up a name for herself, quickly becoming ‘that cat’ around the shelter Her tiny body contains a whopping personality. She can hold her own against bigger, bolder cats and makes it very clear who’s in charge. To learn more, email adoptionteam@animalrescueneworleans.org

Book of library writing contest’s winning entries to be launched Jan. 31

BY JANE LEGROS

Contributing writer

Come help celebrate the publication of “Renewed: Volume 3” with a book launch party at the Main Library, 219 Loyola Ave., on Jan. 31 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The anthology features local writers who entered the library’s 2025 Summer Fun Adult Writing Contest. Each of the book’s 10 short stories and 10 poems was a finalist in that contest, which featured “harmony” as a theme.

As an annual publication showcasing the talents of New Orleans writers, “Renewed” helps to preserve and celebrate the city’s diverse culture.

Copies of the book will be given away while supplies last. “Renewed” will be available to check out from the library starting on Jan. 31. Visit catalog.nolalibrary org to place a hold. This event and publication is sponsored by the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library

AUTHOR TALK: Award-winning author Liz Moore will visit the library via Zoom on Jan. 28 at 6 p.m. to discuss secrets and second chances through the lens of her latest novel, “The God of the Woods.”

The bestseller takes place in August 1975 when a camp counselor discovers an empty bunk. Its occupant, Barbara Van Laar, has gone missing. Barbara isn’t just any 13-year-old; she’s the daughter of the family that owns the summer camp and employs most of the region’s residents. And this isn’t the first time a Van Laar child has disappeared. Visit nolalibrary.co/liz-moore to register and submit your questions for the author

WRITERS’ CIRCLE: The library’s REACH Center will host a Black QTGNC Writers’ Circle at 6 p.m. on Jan. 28. Facilitated by Black the Creator — a queer AfroIndigenous artist, creative coach and therapeutic arts facilitator — this 90-minute writing circle is a space for inspiration, connection and creative accountability de-

signed for Black queer, trans and gender nonconforming writers. Masks are required.

The center is located inside the Corpus Christi Epiphany Church Community Center, 2022 St. Bernard Ave., and also offers a free co-working space. Visit reach.nolalibrary.org to learn more about the center BEFORE MARRYING: Divorce lawyer Camille Patti will visit Algiers Regional Library, 3014 Holiday

Drive, via Zoom to give a virtual law talk about “getting married smart” on Feb. 4 at 5:30 p.m. The workshop will cover important factors to consider before getting married. There will be an opportunity to ask Patti questions as time allows. Jane LeGros is the director of marketing and communications for the New Orleans Public Library

economic background, religion or special needs.” That translates into the inclusion of members with emotional and physical challenges.

and having children of their own, my parents wanted to give the children of the community the ability to experience Mardi Gras in a way that would rival any of the adult krewes,” he said. “With the help of friends like Mrs. Dot and Dr. Dave Cook and community leaders such as Al Copeland Sr. and Dr. Alton Ochsner they set out to do exactly that.”

Along with its longevity, there’s another sign of Little Rascals’ success: Spittler quoted Arthur Hardy as calling the krewe “the longest running and most flamboyant children’s organization in Mardi Gras history.”

The krewe was built to promote leadership and self-esteem in

members and fellowship among families, according to its website.

“We have long standing relationships with many organizations throughout the city including the Manning Family Children’s Hospital in New Orleans,” Spittler said. “Depending on the particular needs, we do what we have to do to ensure that every one of our members has an amazing and safe time while riding with us without feeling limited in any way.”

Running a krewe for kids, however, comes with its own set of hurdles.

“I’d say our biggest challenge is staying relevant,” Spittler said.

“Children should be children, and all children should have the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential regardless of race, color,

“Our membership ages out after 19 years old, meaning that we have to continually renew our roster and fill in places that are open. We have been blessed with second- and

third-generation members It is the shared memories between parents and children that are at the core of our success and longevity.” Given the sometimes rowdy image of Carnival, some might see keeping the event appropriate for children as a challenge as well But Spittler doesn’t think that way “I guess it depends on how you view the spirit of Mardi Gras. Through my childhood with the krewe, my view of the Mardi Gras spirit is shaped by family and fun,” he said. “It’s not the same kind of revelry that most attribute to the season, I’m sure. Come out to the parade on Sunday The Mardi Gras spirit is in all of the smiling faces that you will see on the street and on the floats every year.” To find out more, or to thekreweoflittlerascals.org or email at kreweklr@aol.com. Follow the krewe on Facebook and Instagram.

Let It Sneaux

Faux snow was in the forecast recently outside the Audubon Aquarium during a two-evening event that also turned the area along the Mississippi River into an ice rink. The synthetic ice gave New Orleanians a chance to try their hand at ice skating — no cold weather required.

Cox Charities education grants fund programs in 16 NOLA schools

Staff report

Cox Communications has awarded more than $38,000 to 16 Greater New Orleans schools through its employee-funded Cox Charities Education Grant program.

Receiving $2,500 grants are Audubon Charter School, for its urban farming and kindergarten program; Benjamin Franklin High School, sound system for film production program; Bonnabel High School, Connecting Youth with Theatre; Cabrini High School, STEAM upgrades; Cuillier Career Center, seasoned citizens day of pampering; Harold Keller Elementary Tablet Talk; John Ehret High School, International Baccalaureate studies; John Q. Adams Middle School, Grow Meet Exceed; Lake

Forest Charter, new piano program; Mount Carmel Academy, robotics across the curriculum; Renew Laurel Elementary School, Kinder Innovation Lab Growing the Whole Child Program; ReNEW Moton Lakefront, High Dosage Math Camp; ReNEW Moton Lakefront, Forever New Orleans Program; St. Michael Special School, vocational culinary skills; Village De L’est Charter School, classroom needs for innovative learning; and Young Audiences Charter Schools at Crocker Elementary, boosting student attendance. The Cox Communications Education Grants to be awarded for the 2025-26 school year are in addition to $60,000 in Cox Charities Investment grants awarded to 12 Greater New Orleans nonprofits in August.

SCHOOL NOTES

NOCCA: Percy Gillard, a junior at New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, has been selected as a 2026 YoungArts award winner in Film/ Animation. Gillard will receive a monetary award of $250. YoungArts award winners, ages 15-18 or in grades 10-12, are selected through a highly competitive application reviewed by panels of artists.

EINSTEIN CHARTER SCHOOLS: Nicholas Bijou has been named interim chief executive officer. A classroom teacher since 2013, he has held several leadership positions, including instructional coach and CMO administrative officer and has been with Einstein for five years. A New Orleans native, Bijou is a graduate of St. Augustine High School. He received a biology degree from Xavier and a masters in teaching biology from Tulane. He is currently a doctoral student at LSU

CHALMETTE HIGH: Seniors Maya Dufrene, Celine Bioc, Alayna Mendel and Cheyann Clark have been awarded QuestBridge National College Match Scholarships, each valued at more than $300,000. It covers the full cost of attendance, including tuition, housing, food, books, supplies and travel expenses. Dufrene will attend Dartmouth College in New Hampshire and study psychology. Bioc will attend Notre Dame in Indiana and major in strategic management. Mendel will attend Wellesley University in Massachusetts to study neuroscience. Clark will attend Hamilton College in New York and major in biochemistry or political science BROTHER MARTIN HIGH: The Brother Martin Dionysians (Drama Club) will perform “Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind” at 7 p.m. Jan. 29-31, and at 2 p.m. Jan. 31 The production will be held in the auditorium on the Brother Martin campus, at 4401 Elysian Fields Ave. in New Orleans $15; tickets can be purchased at the door brothermartin.com/drama

The Goddess is a king cake made in partnership with the Krewe of Muses and the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts and contains goat cheese, fig, candied orange and toasted walnuts, topped with a silver-dusted icing

NOCCA: New Orleans Center for Creative Arts’ Black Culture Club will present “Black to the Future,” exploring Afrofuturism through the lens of Black history, culture and possibility. The production, at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 29-30 at NOCCA, 2800 Chartres St. in New Orleans, blends spoken word, music, dance, satire and scenes inspired by Black playwrights, thinkers and visionaries. Tickets start at $17.85 via Eventbrite. https:// nocca.com/. NOLA PUBLIC SCHOOLS EARLY LEARNING: Registration is open through Feb. 20 for Main Round applications, which allow eligible families the chance to enroll their children in free, high-quality early child care education programs. Applicants include expectant mothers, parents and guardians with children from birth to 4 years old and are residents of Orleans Parish. NOLA-PS Family Resource Centers can assist families in enrolling. Centers are located across the city and open for walk-in support Monday-Thursday and virtual meetings on Fridays. EnrollNolaPS.com.

AFTER-SCHOOL SCIENCE PROGRAM: Middle school students and their families can participate in the Disease Discovery After-School Program, a free, hands-on STEM program designed for middle school students curious about problem-solving and how real outbreaks are investigated. The program will run 4-6 p.m., Jan. 8, 15, 22 and Feb. 5, 12, 19 and 26 at the Old Metairie Library, 2350 Metairie Road in Metairie Free, but space is limited. bit. ly/Disease-Detectives.

NOCCA: The New Orleans Center for Creative Arts’ culinary arts students and faculty will offer king cakes for purchase from Jan. 6 to Feb. 16, including two new king cake collaborations: chef Emeril Lagasse’s Banana Cream Pie King Cake and chef Frank Brigtsen’s Strawberry Tres Leches King Cake. NOCCA will also feature “The Goddess,” in partnership with the Krewe of Muses, plus its signature gluten-free cinnamon and satsuma almond king cakes. Prices start at $27, with U.S shipping available and local pickup at NOCCA, 2800 Chartres St., and the King Cake Hub, 1464 S. Broad St. in New Orleans. www.NOCCAMarketplace.com.

JEFFERSON PARISH SCHOL-

ARSHIPS: The Republican Women’s Club of Jefferson Parish is accepting applications through Feb. 13 for two scholarships for residents of Jefferson Parish, each worth $1,000. The main requirement is a 500- to 800-word double-spaced essay on media literacy, civic awareness and real-world relevance on this topic: Analyze how platforms like TikTok, X and YouTube influence beliefs, misinformation and civic endangerment among young voters. Email doc1mla@ gmail.com for details.

ROOTED SCHOOL NEW ORLEANS: Prospective families can visit, from 9 a.m. to noon Mondays through Thursdays, to meet students and teachers. Half- or full-day shadow days are also available through Spend-A-Day Experiences. Sign up for visits at www.rootedschoolneworleans.org.

CARNIVAL

KREWE BOHÉME PARADE: The krewe inspired by absinthe

first rolled in 2019 and will roll Jan. 30, 7 p.m., in the MarignyFrench Quarter. The procession is led by a symbol of the bohemian spirit, a green absinthe fairy. www.kreweboheme.com.

KREWE DU VIEUX PARADE:

One of Carnival’s most satirical and humorous krewes will roll Jan. 31, 6:30 p.m., in the Marigny-French Quarter with costumed marchers, mule-drawn mini floats, and spirited brass bands. www kreweduvieux.org.

KREWE OF LITTLE RASCALS

PARADE: The krewe, started in 1983 for members ranging from 2-19, rolls Feb. 1, noon, from Clearview shopping center to Martin Behrman without the loops. www.thekreweoflittlerascals.com.

KREWE OF NEFERTITI PARADE: The all-female social aid and pleasure organization rolls Feb. 1, 1 p.m., in New Orleans East. Named for the legendary leader of ancient Egypt the parade rolls along Lake Forest and Read boulevards. www.kreweofnefertiti.org.

‘TIT REX PARADE: Inspired by the shoebox parades traditionally created by New Orleans school kids during Carnival season, this krewe was founded in 2009. It rolls Feb. 1, 4 p.m., in the Marigny with the theme “Fun Size.” titrexparade.com/.

MARDI GRAS SNEAKER BALL: NORD Commission will host its annual special needs ball Jan. 31, 5-8 p.m, at Joe Brown Park, 5601 Read Blvd. in New Orleans. Formal attire is optional. Open to all ages. There is a limit of two chaperones for each special needs attendee. RSVPs are required (504) 658-3011

SENIOR MARDI GRAS DANCE: The annual Krewe of G-Old Timers Mardi Gras Dance will be on Feb. 12 at the Edward A. Dufresne Community Center, 274 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway in Luling. Doors open at 10:30 a.m., and the event will take place from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in the gymnasium. St. Charles Parish seniors 55 and older are encouraged to wear festive Mardi

will be on Feb. 26, 9:45 a.m.-

“THE BATTLE OF MANILA: POISONED VICTORY IN THE PACIFIC WAR”: Author and historian Nicholas Evan Sarantakes will discuss his book Feb. 4, 4:30-6:30 p.m., at The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St. in New Orleans. A reception will be held at 4:30 p.m., with the presentation starting at 5:30 p.m. Free. www.nationalww2museum. org.

military members and veterans from all branches of service. Current and past Saints players will attend Special halftime events will include pushup contests and field goal kicks, with games concluding around 6 p.m.

MONSTER JAM: Tickets are available for the stadium Championship Series West, coming to New Orleans Feb. 28 at Caesars Superdome, 1500 Sugar Bowl Drive in New Orleans. Twelve drivers will vie for a title and a spot at the Monster Jam World Finals in Salt Lake City, Utah, on July Fourth weekend. The main event starts at 7 p.m. A Pit Party will be open 2:305:30 p.m. for a separate fee. Tickets start at $33.45 via Ticketmaster. MonsterJam. com.

CULTURE & CONCERTS

FRIENDS OF THE CABILDO CONCERT SERIES: Tickets are on sale for the 2025-26 season of concerts held at 7 p.m. on the third-floor performance space venue at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, 400 Esplanade Ave. in New Orleans. Featured March 13 will be Robin Barnes. Concert dates continue into 2026. Tickets start at $30. friendsofthecabildo.org.

LAFFONT COMPETITION: The New Orleans District and Gulf Coast Region vocal competition will be held on Jan. 31, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., and Feb. 1, 1–5 p.m., at Louis J. Roussel Performance Hall at Loyola University, 6363 St. Charles Ave. in New Orleans. On Saturday, 25 singers will compete for a chance to advance to the Gulf Coast Region. Free. On Sunday, winners from the New Orleans, Puerto Rico and Houston districts will compete for a chance to advance to the Laffont semifinal round at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. $15. amicisings.org.

OGDEN AFTER HOURS: The new jazz series will feature clarinetist Tim Laughlin joined by pianist David Boeddinghaus on Jan. 29, 6 p.m., at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St in New Orleans. Also, a food pop-up, a cash bar and a kids’ art activities. $15 adults; $7

children. ogdenmuseum.org.

MOVIES

“PRIDE AND PREJUDICE”: The Austen-tatious Movie Club will celebrate Jane Austen with a screening of the 2005 film starring Keira Knightley at the Westwego Library’s meeting room, 635 Fourth St. in Westwego, on Jan. 28, 6-8 p.m. calendar.jplibrary net.

“LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP”: As part of Jane Austen Month, the Belle Terre Library, 5550 Belle Terre Road in Marrero, will screen the 2016 movie starring Kate Beckinsale on Jan. 28, 6-8 p.m., in the meeting room. calendar.jplibrary net.

“FROM DUSK TILL DAWN”: Lakeshore Movie Night on Jan. 28 will be the 1996 George Clooney film, starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Lakeshore Library, 1000 West Esplanade Ave. in Metairie. calendar. jplibrary.net.

“SUPERMAN II”: The 1980 sequel starring Christopher Reeve will be screened Jan. 31, 2-4 p.m., at the Rosedale Library, 4036 Jefferson Highway in Jefferson. calendar. jplibrary.net.

”HEART EYES”: The Lakeshore Library, 1000 W. Esplanade Ave. in Metairie, will screen the Valentine’s horror film from 2025, on Feb. 4, 6:308:30 p.m., in the library commons. calendar.jplibrary.net.

”THE PHILADELPHIA STORY”: The Westwego Library, 635 Fourth St. in Westwego, will present the 1940 classic starring Cary Grant, Katherine Hepburn and James Stewart, on Feb. 4, 6-8 p.m. calendar. jplibrary.net.

HEALTH

SENIORS AWARE AND STAND-

ING STRONG: Silence Broken, Inc. will host a six-part series designed to support those 60 and older who have lived through Adverse Childhood Experiences. The first event

2:45 p.m., at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 5875 Canal Blvd. in New Orleans. The day will focus on fellowship, learning and practical tools to help navigate the long-term effects of childhood trauma. Early registration encouraged. Admin@SilenceBrokenNow.org, (504) 261-5384.

BOOKS

“HAUNCH PAUNCH & JOWL”: Joel Dinerstein will celebrate the launch of the first in the new UNO Press series, Lost Classics in Jewish Literature, for which Dinerstein is the founding editor. He will appear in conversation with UNO Press editor in chief Abram Himelstein to discuss the 1923 book by Samuel Ornitz on Jan. 28, 6-7:30 p.m., at Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St. in New Orleans. octaviabooks.com.

“FIRST LADY OF THE NEW WORLD”: Richard Robbins will celebrate the launch of his new novel about a Creole commoner who rises to become the most powerful woman in the New World with a reading and signing on Jan. 29, 6-7:30 p.m., at Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St. in New Orleans. octaviabooks.com.

“FIRST LADY OF THE NEW WORLD”: Author Richard Robbins celebrates the launch of his new novel on Jan. 29, 6–7:30 p.m., at Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St. in New Orleans. octaviabooks.com.

“STILL GROWING STILL

LEARNING STILL ME”: Author and former Saints player Kenny Stills will discuss his book on Jan. 29, 6 p.m., at Baldwin & Co., 1030 Elysian Fields in New Orleans. Reserve book and admission to a meet-andgreet on Eventbrite. www baldwinandcobooks.com.

“THE SEVEN DAUGHTERS OF DUPREE”: Author Nikesha Williams will be joined in conversation by author Jami Attenberg on Jan. 30, 6 p.m.,

at The Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. A book signing will follow. RSVP and purchase a book in advance on Eventbrite. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com.

“WHO GOT THE BABY IN THE KING CAKE?”: Local author and songwriter Johnette Downing signs her children’s book Jan. 31, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at Barnes & Noble, 3721 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie. stores. barnesandnoble.com.

“ROUGAROU AT MARDI

GRAS”: Author Vanessa Cano will sign copies of her book on Jan. 31, 1 p.m., at Barnes & Noble, 3721 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie. stores.barnesandnoble.com.

“KING OF THE SHOEBOX

PARADE”: Author Brenda Robert will lead story time and sign copies of her book on Feb. 1, 11 a.m., at Barnes & Noble, 3721 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie. stores.barnesandnoble.com.

“CARNIVAL TIME IN MY

MIND”: Author Abby Roniger will sign copies of her book Feb. 1, 1 p.m., at Barnes & Noble, 3721 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie. stores.barnesandnoble.com.

POETRY READING: New Orleans poet and author Brad Richard will host an evening of poets reading their work on Feb. 5, 7 p.m., at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave. in Metairie. The poets will include Richard, author of “Turned Earth,” Justin Lacour, author of the forthcoming “A Season in Heck & Other Poems,” and Andy Young, author of “Museum of the Soon to Depart.” Jplibrary.net.

“MORE LIFE IN LOOZIANA, CARTOONS AND COMMENTARY”: Fred Mulhearn, a cartoonist who lives in Denham Springs, will discuss his new book on Feb. 3, 7 p.m., at the East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon in Metairie. calendar.jplibrary.net.

Learn about Black troops who served in the Civil War on Feb. 10

Learn more about the role of Black troops during the Civil War at 7 p.m. Feb. 10 at the East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.

Chris Smith

Cyril Lagvanec, Ph.D., will talk about the history of United States Colored Troops, Union Army regiments that primarily were African Americans, although some other ethnic groups served as well.

Established in response to a demand for more units from Union Army commanders, these regiments, which numbered 175 by the end of the war in 1865, constituted about one-tenth of the manpower of the army.

Members served in infantry, artillery and cavalry About 20% of USCT soldiers were killed in action or died of disease and other causes, a rate about 35% higher than that of White Union troops.

Numerous USCT soldiers fought with distinction, with 16 receiving the Medal of Honor The regiments were precursors to the Buffalo Soldier units that fought in the American Indian War.

FINANCIAL INFO: Sheila Cao, a per-

sonal finances consultant based in New Orleans, will give a series of presentations on financial management at 4 p.m. on four Wednesdays in February and March at the Wagner Library, 6646 Riverside Drive, Metairie.

Topics are:

n Feb. 4 – Financial foundations, including increasing cash flow debt management

n Feb. 18 – How money works, including education funds, college savings

n Feb. 25 Wealth formulas, with the Rule of 72 and emergency funds

n March 4 – Income protection, with tax-free retirement income stream and the DIME method

GENEALOGY: Gwen Kelley, a librarian who specializes in genealogy will lead a series of classes at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave, Metairie. They will be held on consecutive Wednesdays, starting at 2:30 p.m., on these topics:

n Feb. 18 – Using the Census, which can be a window into your ancestors’ stories — and clues about new relatives to add to your family tree.

n Feb. 25 – Researching vital records such as birth and death certificates and marriage licenses can be used to link each generation to the next.

n March 4 – Newspapers and obituaries have details that can bring your ancestors to life.

n March 11 – Researching cemetery records let you know where family members were buried and connects them together. In general, researchers using these records can expect to find information such as dates of death and interment, cause of death, age, sex and marital status.

n March 18 Researching military records is complex and individual records need to be requested from archives n March 25 – Researching immigration records, which are the first step in finding where and when your family came to the United States so that you can research your family history in other countries.

MUSIC: The Crescent City Big Band performs at 7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 29, at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon, Metairie.

ASTRONOMY: Jeff Best, a retired aerospace engineer and avid amateur astronomer, will discuss how digital technology and photography have changed our ability to view the wonders of the universe. His talk happens at 7 p.m. Feb 4 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.

Anyone capable of using a smartphone or tablet app can easily use a smart telescope. Users are frequently surprised at their compact size as well as budget-friendly cost. Best will show astronomy pictures he has taken with one of these digital devices, explain how they work, and discuss some of the terminology involved.

Chris Smith is manager of adult programming at the Jefferson Parish Public Library

Electric buses unveiled at Inspire NOLA Charter Schools

Staff report

InspireNOLA has deployed 42 electric school buses, providing daily transportation for more than 3,000 students across InspireNOLA schools. This represents the largest electric school bus deployment in Louisiana to date. The buses are operated by A&S Transportation and supported by Highland Electric Fleets through its Electrification-as-a-Service

model. The fleet includes IC Bus Type C electric school buses, supported by a dedicated charging depot located on Industrial Parkway

The site features seven power cabinets supporting 52 total charge ports through satellite dispensers.

Funding for the project includes awards from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program as well as federal tax credits.

A special red beans Monday

Volunteers gave their time on Martin Luther King Jr. Day — Monday, Jan. 19 — to pack more than 105,000 red beans and rice meal kits, made with Louisiana-grown rice, for distribution to families in need by Second Harvest Food Bank. The event at Dillard University in New Orleans was part of the Million Meals for MLK campaign. It was hosted by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana, Healthy Blue Louisiana and Entergy Louisiana.

St. Elizabeth’s Guild installs officers

St. Elizabeth’s Guild has installed its 2026 officers. Standing, from left, are Nancy Colomb, first vice president; Mickey Rodriguez, parliamentarian; Karen Pilie, treasurer; Margaret Murphy, recording secretary; Anne Bailey Theard, corresponding secretary; Cindy Paulin, second vice president; and Lisa Baynham, immediate past president. Seated are Julie Vanderbrook and Erin Stahnke co-presidents. The guild supports children’s and family programs run by Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans. It will hold its annual Volunteer Activist Awards Luncheon on April 10 at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside.

West Bank Art Guild names artists of the month

The West Bank Art Guild’s winners in the January 2026 meeting are, from left, Penelope Baker, ‘Gang Watchers,’ first place; Maria Victoire, ‘Nenuphars,’ second place; and Darlene Johnson, ‘Blue Plate,’ third place.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Staff report

The visitor center at Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and most trails at the Barataria Preserve will temporarily close to accommodate demolition and construction for a major trail improvement and facility remodel.

Beginning on Feb. 2, the park will relocate visitor services to the Town of Lafitte’s Visitor Center The Twin Canals parking lot, trail and canoe launch will remain open for visitors throughout the project.

After Hurricane Ida caused extensive damage throughout the Preserve in 2021, two Disaster Supplement awards provided funding for the improvement plan. The plan includes rebuilding 1.3 miles of elevated boardwalk with durable composite materials and wooden guardrails and removing 1.1 miles of damaged trail with restoration to natural wetland conditions. It also provides for a larger, more accessible education center, which will become the new visitor center Demolition and construction for trail improvements are scheduled to begin in February and will be completed in phases over two years. Trails will reopen to the public as each phase is finished. Construction for the visitor center is expected to be completed by 2029. The Barataria Preserve, located 17 miles south of New Orleans, encompasses more than 26,000 acres of Louisiana wetlands, including bottomland hardwood forest, cypress swamp, freshwater and intermediate marshes, bayous and canals. It offers boardwalks and trail networks that allow visitors to experience diverse wildlife, including alligators, snakes and more than 200 species of birds.