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W e d n e s d ay, J a n u a ry 28, 2026
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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
STAFF FILE PHOTO BY DAVID GRUNFELD
ä See RASCALS, page 2G Founded in 1983, the parade lets kids throw trinkets to other kids.
Sneaux day
COLD COMFORT
Keep your pets safe during periods of freezing weather 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 Traci Howerton region simply aren’t accustomed to prolonged freezing ANIMAL temperatures. A good rule of RESCUE 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 WATER IS A MUST: Pets need access to fresh, clean water at all times, even in winter. Dehydration can still occur in cold weather. Check outdoor water bowls often to ensure they haven’t frozen. Frequent refills can help during extended freezes. OUTDOOR CATS AND FERAL COLONIES: Community cats are particularly vulnerable during severe cold. Colony caretakers can help by providing insulated shelters made from storage bins or sturdy boxes placed on their sides. Line them with straw or blankets and elevate them slightly off the ground. If cats are near your home, cracking a garage door
STAFF PHOTO BY ENAN CHEDIAK
Jennifer Moreau, center, pushes her daughter, Ciara Moreau, around the rink while children play in the falling fake snow recently outside the Audubon Aquarium. ä More photos and details. PAGE 4G
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