Crescent City Picayune 05-06-2026

When we think about keeping our pets healthy, we usually focus on the basics good food regular exercise and routine veterinary care. But there’s another piece of the puzzle that often gets overlooked: grooming. Grooming isn’t just about keeping a dog looking

It plays a

role in overall health and comfort. The good news is that many essential grooming tasks can be done at home with a little time and consistency I’ve found this especially true with my 16-year-old dog Romeo. At his age, keeping him comfortable is the priority, and regular, gentle grooming has become an important part of his routine.

Let’s break down some of the basic areas of care to keep in mind.

Grooming is important at the Lagniappe Classic Dog Show.

Ears: A dog’s ears can quickly become a source of discomfort if not properly maintained Breeds with floppy ears tend to trap moisture more easily, making them more prone to infections, wax buildup and irritation. Keeping ears clean and dry is key A weekly cleaning with a vet-approved solution can help prevent problems before they start. It’s also a good idea to gently dry the ears after baths or swimming If redness, odor, excessive scratching or sensitivity is spotted, it’s time to call the vet. Ear issues can escalate quickly if left untreated.

ä See PETS, page 4G

ALS in black and white

Photographer expresses gratitude with his art

BY TED JACKSON Contributing writer

The medical test felt rou-

tine. The mood, casual.

Then-60-year-old photojournalist Rusty Costanza — known for his ethical introspection, particularly when documenting human suffering lay relaxed on an examination bed. The neurologist rolled his stool closer to Costanza’s feet and pierced a thin needle probe into the muscle of his leg. A technician watched close by as the computer’s audio sounded a faint background hiss. Normal. Routine. Exactly what the neurologist had hoped to hear from the electromyography

test that measures the electrical activity of muscles and nerves.

Next, he moved the needle to Costanza’s right foot. This time, an abrasive static tone caught Costanza off guard. Weird, he thought.

The neurologist abruptly shifted his posture and asked Costanza to push his foot as hard as possible against the examiner’s hand.

Again, a crackling static, sort of like really heavy rain on a tin roof. Odd. Costanza suddenly felt tension in the room. In the retelling, his voice cracked and his eyes teared.

ä

ALS

Continued from page 1G

“I looked at the technician. She turned to the side and wiped her eye. And I knew I just knew.”

The doctor ran a couple more tests in heavy silence, then solemnly excused himself to fetch Costanza’s wife, Ann, from the waiting room. When the doctor returned, he confirmed the news to them almost apologetically:

“You have ALS.” Rusty and Ann cried. What else could they do?

The longest diagnosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, is a progressive disease that attacks the brain and spinal cord, robbing people of muscle control.

There is no cure. Most patients live two to five years after diagnosis, though about 10%-20% survive a decade or longer

like I expected it I’ve been dancing around it for so long now, now I’m dancing with it.”

The hardest conversation came with a phone call to his two grown sons, Kyle and Chris. “They responded like you would expect children to respond when they hear the news that they have a terminal parent,” Costanza said. “There was a long pause. A long silence.”

In the months that followed, Costanza’s community rallied with the same empathy and compassion that he had shown to so many over the years. Friends raised nearly $24,000 through a GoFundMe. The Team Gleason Foundation provided a wheelchair, guidance on benefits and mu ch -n ee de d advice for home renovations as the disease progressed.

“I’m not afraid of dying I’m afraid of missing out. I’m afraid of not being there for my kids. But I’m here now, and I concentrate on that.”

For Costanza, the Feb. 6, 2025, confirma tion capped nearly 15 years of anxious ambiguity

RUSTY COSTANZA

The first signs began in 2010 with excruciating cramps while photographing the NCAA Sweet 16 for The Times-Picayune.

The pains perplexed the professional photographer since he kept himself in excellent shape — running 30 miles a week, playing competitive volleyball and chasing stories in a fastpaced, high-energy city

From shooting a Super Bowl one day to flying inverted in a biplane over the Mississippi River the very next, Costanza had done it all. He always got photos to remember, but as any professional news photographer will tell you, it all takes a toll on the body And at first, doctors blamed those terrible cramps on back issues, a photographer’s occupational hazard from lugging heavy lenses, then contorting their bodies to get the must-have shot, over and over again. But when “drop foot” emerged — difficulty lifting the front part of his foot — they tested for ALS.

The timing was eerie.

The wall-to-wall local news coverage of former Saints safety Steve Gleason’s 2011 diagnosis of ALS made the three letters feel like daggers. But Costanza’s tests returned inconclusive.

“Highly unlikely,” he was told. No need to worry

Easier said than done

For 14 more years, symptoms came and went In 2024, students at Archbishop Rummel had to help Costanza to his feet during a field day The deeper nerve study finally confirmed what he had half-expected — and dodged — for so long

“All those years of dodging it, I thought I was bulletproof,” Costanza said. “But at the same time, it’s

“I’ve decided that I will go that route. And I’m calling mine ‘Jay’ you know like JPEG,” he chuckled, enjoying his wisecrack reference to a JPEG image format preferred by newspapers for transmitting digital photos.

The great influx of love he is experiencing inspired Costanza to give back the only way he knows: through his photography But what started as an idea for a small neighborhood coffee shop display grew when his former photo editor at the newspaper, Andrew Boyd, looked over the collection.

“It’s really hard being on the receiving end,” Costanza said. “But the financial burden of ALS is huge. I do not want to die and leave my family in a financial hole because they’re already suffering enough.” That fundraiser cash will help finance required house renovations.

On a recent afternoon, Costanza welcomed visitors with coffee and Klondike bars — a decades-old tradition among photographers in the bustling Times-Picayune photo lab to ease tough days. During the visit he shuffled between rooms on a standing walker, yet he still instinctively snatched up his camera, now a lighter fixed-lens model better suited for his weakened condition.

His photographer’s eye for the decisive moment remains as sharp as ever

A new vision

Costanza, now 62, says he rates ALS zero out of five stars. Lately, he’s bumped it to one because “the silver lining is the love you receive from people. Sometimes, I feel like I’m living my wake.”

He recalled his father’s funeral; hearing mourners share stories the man never got to hear “I get to hear those things,” Costanza said, voice thick with emotion. “If you’re looking for silver linings, that’s one of them Do I deserve that? It’s humbling. I get goose bumps.” What he fears, and what he doesn’t.

“I’m not afraid of dying,” he insists. “I’m afraid of missing out. I’m afraid of not being there for my kids. But I’m here now, and I concentrate on that.”

Still, practical realities intercede. “Don’t let anybody fool you Dying is a lot of work,” he advised. Endless procedures, treatments, wills, living wills, decisions about a tracheotomy or feeding tube, known as PEGs.

At the mention of that, Costanza’s tone lifted.

“I’ve always thought of Rusty as a great sports photographer,” Boyd said. “But these images were different. They were quieter, warmer, more intimate.” He instantly recognized the power of the collection and imagined a serious gallery showcase. As fate would have it, the St. Tammany Art Association was actively exploring ideas for their upcoming Spring for Art exhibition in Covington, and Boyd’s wife, Sarah, served on the arts advisory committee.

With that, a show was born. A new face

The gallery exhibit is “Love in the Face of ALS: A Photographic Journey,” and it is one that captures this talented artist’s spectacular shift in vision.

Costanza appears to be experiencing his illness as a window into a previously unknown world, and his newest work delivers that profound transition The images speak like a man on a journey, one deeply personal, yet strikingly universal, stark — but so richly layered, a subtle negotiation between mortality and the inevitable.

Of the 35 black and white curated images to be exhibited, Constanza shot one of his favorites as a self-portrait through a car’s passenger rearview mirror, his face etched with raw vulnerability of the fresh diagnosis, that “deer-inthe-headlights look,” as he describes it. Another photo shows his own elevated feet during home therapy with Louis Armstrong’s lyrics to “What a Wonderful World” visible on the wall beyond. He and Ann danced to that song at their wedding 33 years ago.

“Seeing it up there is a reminder of just how lucky I am,” Costanza said. “ALS is truly terrible, but that doesn’t mean life is terrible. Sometimes I need a reminder of all the good things.”

Costanza’s show is at the St Tammany Art Association’s Barranger Gallery in the Art House at 320 N. Columbia St. in downtown

Continued from page 1G

Nails: Long nails can alter a dog’s gait and cause discomfort. Trim frequency varies: active outdoor dogs wear down their nails more, while indoor dogs need trims more often. If you hear nails clicking on the floor, they’re likely too long. Some owners trim at home, but take care not to cut the quick, the blood vessel in the pet’s nails; if unsure, have a vet or groomer do it.

Feet: Paws take a lot of wear and tear, especially in our area, where yards can be filled with sticks, debris, pesky acorns and more. Keeping the fur between the paw pads trimmed and the feet clean can help prevent small objects from getting lodged and causing discomfort. It also gives a chance to check for cuts, swelling or anything unusual.

Baths: In this regard, less can be more. Dogs don’t need frequent baths unless they’ve gotten into something messy In fact, bathing too often can strip the coat of its natural oils, leading to dry irritated skin. For most dogs, a bath every few weeks, or as needed, is plenty When it’s time to lather up, always use a shampoo formulated specifically for pets. Human products can be too harsh and disrupt the natural balance of a dog’s skin.

Brushing: No matter the coat type, regular brushing benefits every dog. It helps remove loose hair distribute natural oils, and keep

the coat healthy It’s also a great opportunity to check for skin issues, lumps, or parasites. For many pets, it’s simply relaxing.

Haircuts: While professional groomers are a great option, some pet owners choose to handle haircuts at home. I fall into that category with Romeo. Grooming him at home lets me go at his pace and keep the experience as low-stress as possible. That said, it’s not a quick task. It takes time, the right tools, and a lot of patience. The results may not be perfect, but comfort matters more than appearance.

Grooming isn’t just about appearances; it’s about prevention, comfort and overall well-being. By staying on top of basic grooming habits, small issues can be caught before they become bigger problems, keeping pets feeling their best.

Animal Rescue New Orleans events

May 9: ARNO is hosting an adoption event at Tutti Frutti in Kenner from 3-5 p.m. at 817 West Esplanade Ave. People can meet adoptable dogs and buy a treat, with 20% of sales benefiting the shelter For more info, email adopt@animalrescueneworleans.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.

Author talks, Civil War look back and more in Jefferson Parish

Peggy Sweeney-McDonald will discuss her new book, “Grief, Caregiving and Pink Cloud Moments,” at 7 p m May 28 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.

When SweeneyMcDonald’s mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, she returned to Louisiana with her husband to move in with her parents. What began as a temporary plan became a profound homecoming a journey of caregiving, surrender and rediscovering grace. Her family entered what she calls “the A-Zone” — a sacred path through illness, grief, laughter and unexpected beauty. Through vivid storytelling and Southern warmth, SweeneyMcDonald captures both the heartbreak and the special moments that defined her mother’s final years.

Peggy Sweeney-McDonald is a Louisiana-born storyteller, actress and creative producer She is the creator and host of the Life in the A-Zone podcast, inspired by her bittersweet journey caring for her mother with Alzheimer’s. It has been downloaded in more than 30 countries Sweeney-

McDonald is also the author of “Meanwhile, Back at Café Du Monde Life Stories About Food” and the creator of “Pink Cloud Moments,” a collection of journals that celebrate grace, creativity, and the beauty of everyday life. She lives in Baton Rouge with her husband and her 90-year-old father Civil War talk

Retired Lt. Col. James M. Larkin, USAF will discuss “General Butler and Metairie” at 7 p.m. May 26 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.

Maj. Gen Benjamin Butler was an extremely controversial figure during the U.S Civil War. He commanded the force that captured New Orleans in May 1862.

His administration had some successes, but some of his acts were highly unpopular, including Order No. 28 of May 15, 1862, which stated that if any woman insulted or showed contempt for any officer or soldier of the United States, she might be treated as a “woman of the town plying her avocation,” in other words, a prostitute.

He censored newspapers, seized cotton, offended the city’s Jewish population, and had a man executed for tearing down a flag atop the U.S Mint He achieved success by imposing a rigid

Bingo for children,

BY JANE LEGROS

Contributing writer

Children ages 2-5 and their families are invited to Robert E. Smith Library, 6301 Canal Blvd., for a fun, interactive beginner’s BINGO at 10:30 a.m. May 7. With cards focused on the alphabet and beginning sounds, this early literacy program helps build children’s foundational skills and prepares them to read

This early learning program encourages children to develop and enhance their early literacy skills, including phonological awareness, print awareness, letter knowledge, print motivation and vocabulary

BINGO: Preschool Edition is sponsored by the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library Visit nolalibrary.org/early-lit to learn more about library resources to help you raise your reader, including daily skillsbuilding calendars, digital tools and dozens of free programs around the city every week.

Virtual author talk: courage, turmoil, and the transformative power of love

At an online Zoom talk 6-7 p m May 7, internationally acclaimed author Marjan Kamali will discuss her bestselling novel, “The Lion Women of Tehran.”

The novel is set in 1950s Tehran, where 7-year-old Ellie, who has lived in grand comfort, is forced to move with her mother to a tiny downtown home after her father’s untimely death. Lonely and bearing the brunt of her mother’s endless grievances, Ellie dreams of a friend to ease her isolation.

On the first day of school, she meets Homa, a kind girl with a brave and irrepressible spirit. Together, the two girls play games, learn to cook in the stone kitchen of Homa’s warm home, wander through the colorful stalls of the Grand Bazaar, and share their ambitions to become “lion women.”

But their happiness is disrupted when Ellie and her mother are offered the chance

garbage-disposal program that dramatically reduced yellow fever cases to two in 1862, when the death rate could reach 10% of the city’s population each year

After the war Butler served five terms in the U.S. House of Representatives from Massachusetts and ran several campaigns for Massachusetts governor, eventually winning in 1882. He also played a leadership role in the impeachment of U.S. President Andrew Johnson.

James Larkin grew up in Metairie and has been interested in what took place in the New Orleans area during the Civil War, the most tumultuous period in the region’s history Since retiring in 2010, he has been poring through regimental histories, the Compendium of the War, soldier diaries and military maps at the National Archives to get a picture of the people and events that occurred in the New Orleans region during the conflict.

Don’t forget these upcoming library events:

Music Event The Crescent City Big Band performs at 7 p.m. May 14 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie.

Saturday Writer’s Clinic Local author Elisa M. Speranza will discuss the nuts and bolts of the book

to return to their previous bourgeois Now a popular student at Iran’ high school, Ellie’s memories gin to fade. Years later however sudden reappearance in Ellie’ world alters the course of both lives. Visit nolalibrary.co/marjan-kamali register and submit your questions author

The history of Chinese Ameri in New Orleans

The first significant migration people to Louisiana occurred construction, between 1867 and Local planters imported hundreds Cantonese contract laborers California and directly from low-cost replacement for slave the mid-1870s, nearly all had tations and moved to Southern cially New Orleans, in search and better working conditions.

publishing process, with a special focus on alternative ways to get your book into the world. The presentation happens at 9:30 a.m. May 16, at the Wagner Library, 6646 Riverside Drive, Metairie. Speranza will cover the steps and resources needed to pursue different paths, offering a realistic — yet encouraging — assessment of the publishing landscape, regardless of genre. She will share her own journey and lessons learned from publishing her most recent novel, Triage, and her debut novel, The Italian Prisoner Trading Cards The next Trading Card Game Day is from 1 to 4:30 p.m. May 16 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. Patrons can hang out and play Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, Yu-GiOh and more while making new friends.

Genealogy Jari C. Honora, a certified genealogist, will present “I’ve Tested My DNA — Now What?” at 7 p.m. May 18, at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. More than 1 in 5 Americans have completed an ancestral DNA test. DNA, combined with traditional documentary research, can help confirm family lines and unravel mysteries. With multiple testing companies, DNA test types and results, Honora will cover how to effectively use one’s DNA results

The laborers became factory workers, worked on levee and railroad construction projects, and worked as fishermen, grocers, and, especially, laundrymen. As they put down roots in the community, they continued to influence the development of New Orleans and its surroundings to this day

To celebrate Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month,

in family history research. Heart Health Ahmad Hallak, M.D., a cardiologist with the Ochsner Health system, will discuss “Keeping Your Heart Healthy” at 7 p.m. May 20, at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie. This event is free and open to the public. Dr Hallak will focus on the latest information on key hearthealthy strategies, including dietary choices, physical activity, lifestyle changes such as smoking, weight management, stress management, sleep quality, and monitoring health metrics such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels. He will also discuss hearthealthy foods to prioritize.

Between Chapters The first meeting of a new social club for young adult women, “Between Chapters,” will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. May 26 at the Lakeshore Library, 1000 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie. Between Chapters is a welcoming social club for women ages 20 to 40 who want to build friendships, explore new interests, and connect with others at a similar stage of life. Each meeting will feature a relaxed activity — from creative hobbies and discussions to game nights and community conversations.

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

a public historian at the Historic New Orleans Collection, will lead a Zoom discussion on Chinese Americans in New Orleans at 11 a.m. May 9. Visit nolalibrary.co/ nola-chinese-history to register for this virtual lecture.

LeGros is the director of marketing and communications for the New Orleans Public Library

COMMUNITY EVENTS

HARRISON AVENUE STROLL: The Lakeview Civic Association will host an evening along Harrison Avenue that includes drink specials and discounts, giveaways, trolley rides, access to more than 30 participating businesses and music. The event will be held 5-9 p.m. May 9. This is a 21+ event. Wristbands are required and start at $10. https://lakeviewcivic.org/Harrison-Avenue-Stroll.

CHAMPAGNE STROLL: The Magazine Street Merchants Association will host their premier springtime event, 6-9 p.m. May 9. Businesses along Magazine Street will stay open late, offering sparkling wine, special deals, sales, live music and more. The event is free and open to the public. All ages are welcome, but participants must be 21 to enjoy wine. https://magazinestreet.com/ event/champagne-stroll/. THE DATING GAME: The Garden District Hotel, 1525 Prytania St. in New Orleans, will host a night of cocktails connection and a friendly competition, 7:30-10 p.m. May 7. Designed for singles in their 40s and 50s, this interactive dating game features one dater questioning a panel of contestants while the audience helps decide who’s worth the date. A mixer will follow. Tickets start at $31.37 via Eventbrite https://www.gdhnola.com/events/ the-dating-game/. THRIFTCON: The nation’s premier vintage clothing and collectible convention will be held 10 a.m.5 p.m. May 9 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, 900 Convention Center Blvd. in New Orleans. More than 130 small businesses will sell vintage men’s and women’s clothing, vintage streetwear, classic collectibles, accessories, home goods, furniture and more. Tickets start at $19. https://tickets.thriftcon.co/ events/new-orleans. CALL FOR ENTRIES: The Helis Foundation and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art will accept entries through May 8 from artists 18 and older residing in Louisiana for the 2026 edition of “Louisiana Contemporary.” This is a statewide, juried exhibition that runs Aug. 1, 2026, to Feb. 14, 2027. Information on submissions is available online. https:// ogdenmuseum.org/exhibition/ louisiana-contemporary-2026/. STARTUP ST. BERNARD PITCH COMPETITION: Applications are open through July 10 for the 12th annual pitch competition from the St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation. Eligible applicants: businesses less than 5 years old, annual revenue under $1 million and five or fewer employees. Judges will evaluate business plans and the venture’s potential to create jobs, invest in St. Bernard, meet regional needs, or advance Startup St. Bernard sectors. Three finalists will pitch on Aug. 20 at Nunez Community College. Each finalist gets at least $5,000; the grand prize includes cash plus in-kind services. https://www.startupstbernard.com/ enter.

OPEN INTERVIEW DAY: RNGD, a construction services firm, will host open interviews, 10 a.m.-1 p.m May 9 at the Goodwill Opportunity Center, 5770 Read Blvd. in New Orleans. Roles available span field operations, project management, preconstruction and skilled trades, including superintendents, project managers, project engineers, preconstruction estimators, operators, concrete carpenters, pipelayers laborers, crane operators and ironworkers. RSVPs can be made online Walk-ins are welcome. https://rngd. com/. PARISH AMERICA 250 PROGRAM MINI GRANTS: Louisiana organizations can apply for a Parish America 250 Program Mini Grant of up to $1500, offered by the Office of the Lt. Gov., Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities and the America 250 Louisiana State Commission. Organizations that are eligible to receive grants include parish governments, local tourism commissions, school boards and nonprofits. Eligible projects include lectures and panel discussions, historical reenactments, theatrical productions, commemorative events and festivals, exhibits, public art, local historical marker development, school field trips and events, archival and museum collection acquisitions and more. Applications will be issued to qualified grantees who apply by the priority deadline on May 8. After May 8, applications will be accepted on a recurring basis through Oct. 31, as long as funds are available https://leh.org/grants/apply-now/ parish-america-250-program-minigrants/. HEALTH & WELLNESS

HUEY P. LONG BRIDGE RUN: The annual 5K run/walk over the Huey P Long Bridge will start at 8 a.m. May 9, starting on U.S. 90 near Bridge City Avenue in Bridge City. The race ends at the Ochsner Fitness Center, 1200 S. Clearview Parkway in Elmwood, with a post-race party featuring live music, Abita beer, food and awards. Entry fees are $45. https://runsignup.com/Race/Events/LA/BridgeCity/HueyPRun#event-1099453.

FREE IMMUNIZATIONS FOR CHIL-

DREN: The Greater New Orleans Immunization Network at Manning Family Children’s will provide free vaccines to children up to age 18, 1:30-4:30 p.m. May 13 in the large meeting room at the Algiers Regional Library, 3014 Holiday Drive in New Orleans. No appointment is necessary Record submission is required before the event at manningchildrens.org/immunization. https://neworleans.libnet.info/ event/16361326.

FAIRS & FESTIVALS

WOODMERE FESTIVAL: The familyfriendly festival will take place from noon to 6 p.m. May 9 at Woodmere

Playground, 4100 Glenmere Blvd. in Harvey. The event includes live music, free crawfish, kids’ activities, food and a pop-up shop.

FUNDRAISERS & GALAS

MAGNOLIA BALL: Tickets are on sale for the annual fundraiser at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, to be held from 7-11 p.m. June 6. The event, at 925 Camp St., will feature live music, martini bars and a silent auction. Tickets start at $200. https://ogdenmuseum.org/magnoliaball/.

WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES: The series of wine pairing dinners returns for its 33rd year, running from May through July 2026. Each of the nine dinners is crafted by the host chef, with every course designed to complement the wines served that evening. Dinner prices range from $135 to $200 and include tax and gratuity. All dinners begin at 6:30 p.m. and benefit WYES. Reservations are available online. www wyes.org/tv/wyes-originals/seasonof-good-tastes.

RESILIENT & RISING GALA: Tickets are on sale for Einstein Charter Schools’ fundraiser starting at 7 p.m. May 8 at Royal Palm, 1901 Manhattan Blvd. #E in Harvey Tickets are $125 and are available for purchase in advance. Proceeds from the gala will benefit Einstein’s Student Uniform Access Initiative, which helps ensure students across the network have access to required school uniforms. https://events. eventnoire.com/e/einstein-charterschools-presents-resilient-risi-2.

JULEPS & GENEROSITY: WYES will host its annual gala at the WYES Paulette and Frank Stewart Innovation Center for Educational Media, 916 Navarre Ave., New Orleans, from 8-11 p.m. May 7. A patron party will begin at 7 p.m. Attire is Derbyinspired, including hats, fascinators, bow ties or track casual. Tickets start at $125 and are available via Eventbrite or through WYES. www wyes.org/events/.

AVERY’S HARBOR FEST: A familyfriendly event benefiting St. Michael Special School will be held starting at 11 a.m. May 9 at the Harbor Bar & Grill, 3024 17th St. in Metairie. Activities include food booths, games for kids, raffles and a silent auction. The Déjà vu Band will perform from 2-6 p.m. Southern Voice will perform from 6-9 p.m. https://harborbargrill. com/harborfest.

SPRING GOLF TOURNAMENT: Associated Builders and Contractors New Orleans/Bayou Chapter will hold their tournament fundraiser from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. May 11 at Cypress Lakes Country Club, 10 Villere Drive in Destrehan. The shotgun start is at 9 a.m. Registration is $900 for a team of four, $950 with a mulligan. https:// members.abcbayou.com/calendar/ Details/2026-spring-golf-tournament-1684557?sourceTypeId=Hub.

THEATER & CONCERTS

CATHY AND MORRIS BART CULTURAL JEWISH ARTS SERIES: Musician, composer and arranger Ziv Kartaginer will collaborate with local New Orleans musicians for a cross-cultural evening of music, starting at 7 p.m. May 6 at the New Orleans JCC, 5342 St Charles Ave. in New Orleans. Admission is $18, free for members. www nojcc.org/events/2026/05/06/ jewish-enrichment/cathy-andmorris-bart-jewish-cultural-artsseries-ziv-kartaginer-the-founderof-the-middle-eastern-big-band/. “GOD OF CARNAGE”: The Tony Award-winning play by Yasmina Reza will run through May 17 at Le Petit Théâtre Du Vieux Carré, 616 St. Peter St. in New Orleans. Evening performances start at 7:30 p.m. Matinee times vary. Tickets start at $22 via OvationTix. www.lepetittheatre.com/events/god-of-carnage.

“PRIMARY TRUST”: Crescent City

Stage (CCS) will present the regional premiere of the 2024 Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Eboni Booth, May 7-24 at the Contemporary Arts Center’s Black Box Theatre, 900 Camp St. in New Orleans. Curtain is at 7:30 p.m. for evening performances and at 2:30 p.m. for Sunday matinees. Tickets start at $27.38 via SimpleTix. www.crescentcitystage. com/. “CHERRIES JUBILEE”: An original play written by four local women, Jefferson Performing Arts Society will perform this comedy May 8-17 at the Westwego Performing Arts Theatre, 177 Sala Ave. in Westwego. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. for evening shows and 2 p.m. for Sunday matinees. Tickets start at $42 via Ticketmaster. www.jpas.org/ performance/cherries-jubilee/. LOUISIANA PHILHARMONIC ORCHES-

TRA: The LPO, under the direction of Matthew Kraemer, presents its season finale, “Stravinsky’s The Firebird,” starting at 7:30 p.m. May 7 at the Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans. A pre-concert talk will take place at 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $18. https://lpomusic. com/events/os10-fire-may07.

MOTHER’S DAY AT AUDUBON ZOO: Irma Thomas, the Soul Queen of New Orleans, will perform her traditional Mother’s Day concert under the oak trees, 2-3:30 p.m., May 10 at the zoo, 6500 Magazine St. in New Orleans. Mothers get half-price admission to the zoo for Mother’s Day. Ticket discount is only available for tickets purchased at the zoo, not online. https://audubonnatureinstitute.org/mothers-day.

CRESCENT CITY BIG BAND: The band’s next music event is a concert of standards from the golden age of big bands, starting at 7 p.m. May 14 in the Jefferson and Napoleon rooms at East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave. in Metairie. https://calendar.jplibrary.net/event/ music-event-crescent-city-bigband-26109.

CARMEN MIRANDA: SAMBA IN TECH-

NICOLOR: Cristina Perez Edmunds stars as the “Brazilian Bombshell,” who sang and danced in the golden age of cinema and who brought samba to the U.S. The theatrical experience also features Bando da Lua and dancers. The show begins at 7 p.m. May 8 at BB’s Stage Door Canteen in the National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $47 for members, $50 for non-members. www nationalww2museum.org/eventsprograms/events/136917-carmenmiranda-samba-technicolor.

“RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S

CINDERELLA”: Tickets are on sale for the Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts production of the 1957 musical, running May 15-31 at the theater, 325 Minor St. in Kenner

Curtain time is 7:30 p.m. for evening shows and 2 p.m. for matinees. Tickets start at $43. www.rivertowntheaters.com/event/Cinderella.

“PEACE, LOVE, & GLOW”: Tickets are on sale for the Broadway Open Stage (BOSS) 8th annual showcases on May 16 in the Shell Theatre at the Dr. Rodney R. Lafon Performing Arts Center, 275 Judge E. Dufresne Parkway in Luling. The 11 a.m. showcase will feature Shine, Rise, Stage and Leveled Tumble students. The 5:30 p.m. showcase is all students. Tickets start at $7. https://lafonartscenter.vbotickets.com/events.

CULINARY EXPERIENCES

ANNUAL CRAWFISH BOIL: Jefferson Chamber of Commerce will host its 29th annual networking event featuring crawfish and Cajun cuisine, 5-8 p.m. May 8 at 3421 N. Causeway Blvd. in Metairie. Tickets start at $50. www.jeffersonchamber.org/. ST. ANDREW’S CRAWFISH BOIL: St. Andrew’s Episcopal School’s annual boil will run 2-6 p.m. May 9 at 8012 Oak St. in New Orleans. Tickets start

at $25. Children 3 and under are free.

Admission includes entertainment, bounce houses, crawfish, hamburgers and hot dogs. https://saesnola. org/. ROSÉ FEST: Bacchanal Wine, 600 Poland Ave. in New Orleans, will host a wine tasting, 2-5 p.m. May 9. The event will include an opportunity to taste more than 45 rosés from all over the world. Tickets start at $37.24 via Eventbrite. www.bacchanalwine.com.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST: The St. Bernard Kiwanis Club and the Valero Meraux Refinery will host the 2026 Terrific Kids and Terrific Teens breakfast, 8-11 a.m. May 11, at Chalmette High School 9th Grade Academy, 2621 Veronica Drive in Chalmette. All 2025-2026 Terrific Kids and Teens dressed in their TK and TT shirts can receive a complimentary breakfast. Additional breakfast is $5 for adults and $3 for children at the door. Children 6 and under eat free. www.stbernardkiwanis.org.

BOURBON & BUBBLES SOUTHSHORE: Tickets are on sale for the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience tasting event, hosted at The Gallery Venue by Pigéon Catering & Events, 755 Tchoupitoulas St. in New Orleans, 6-8:30 p.m. May 15. It will feature a curated selection of handcrafted bourbons and sparkling wines, paired with bites from local restaurants. Tickets are $99. www nowfe.com/bourbon-bubbles.

ABITA’S 40TH CELEBRATION: Louisiana’s original craft brewery will celebrate its 40th anniversary, 11 a.m.10 p.m., May 9 at the New Orleans Taproom, 2375 Tchoupitoulas St. in New Orleans. The daylong celebration will include live music from DJ G, Sunny Side Jazz Band, Few Blue and Brassaholics, along with special activations and drinks. https:// abita.com/event/40th-anniversarycelebration-at-abita-nola/.

MOVIES

MOVIES IN THE PARK: NORD Commission will host free movie showings at NORD locations around the parish through May. The May 8 film is “Wicked For Good,” to be shown at the Lafitte Greenway Gathering Field, 2200 Lafitte St., New Orleans. The rain site is Treme Rec Center, 900 N. Villere St. The movies will begin at dusk. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets, chairs and picnics. The screenings are free and open to the public. Participants under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. www nordc.org.

LAKESHORE MATINEE: Lakeshore Library, 1000 W. Esplanade Ave in Metairie, will screen the 2021 animated film, “Tom and Jerry: The Movie,” with voices by Chloë Grace Moretz and Ken Jeong, starting at 2:30 p.m. May 9 in the library commons. https://calendar.jplibrary net/event/lakeshore-matinee-ratedh-mins-24847.

SATURDAY MATINEE: “Freakier

Friday,” the 2025 sequel to the 2003 movie with Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan, will be shown starting at 2 p.m. May 9 in the meeting room at the North Kenner Library, 630 W. Esplanade Ave. in Kenner. https://calendar.jplibrary.net/event/ saturday-matinee-26820.

BOOKS & LITERARY EVENT

“THE RITZ OF THE BAYOU”: Nancy Lemann celebrates the release of the 40th anniversary edition of her nonfiction work in conversation with writer Benjamin Morrison at 6 p.m. May 6 at Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans. The event is free and open to the public. RSVPs are encouraged via Eventbrite. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com/upcomingevents.

“FIRST LADY OF THE NEW WORLD”: The Friends of the Cabildo’s Courtyard Lecture Series will present author Richard Robbins as he discuss-

es and signs his new book about Felicite St. Maxent, wife of Bernardo de Gálvez, at 6 p.m. May 6 at the 1850 House Museum Gift Shop, 523 St. Ann St. in New Orleans. A wine reception begins at 5:30 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. RSVPs are requested. https://friendsofthecabildo.org/.

“CULTING OF AMERICA: WHAT MAKES A CULT AND WHY WE LOVE THEM”: Author Daniella Mestyanek Young will discuss her book at Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans, starting at 6 p.m. May 8. Audience Q&A and book signings will follow. The event is free and open to the public. RSVPs are encouraged via Eventbrite. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com. LPO’S MUSICAL STORY HOUR: The activity featuring a member of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra will be held at 10:30-11 a.m. May 9 in the Pink Parlor of the Milton H. Latter Memorial Library, 5120 St. Charles Ave. in New Orleans. Violist Sixto Franco will accompany a reading of Yuyi Morales’s children’s book, “Dreamers.” https://neworleans.libnet.info/event/15663174.

“THE CALAMITY CLUB”: Author Kathryn Stockett will discuss her new book with local author E.M. Tran at Garden District Book Shop, 2727 Prytania St. in New Orleans, starting at 5 p.m. May 9. Audience Q&A and book signings will follow. The event is free and open to the public. RSVPs are encouraged via Eventbrite. www.gardendistrictbookshop.com. READING TO ROVER: West Bank Regional Library, 2751 Manhattan Blvd. in Harvey, will host the Visiting Pet Program in which beginner or reluctant readers read aloud to animal-assisted therapy dogs. The event will take place 1-2 p.m. May 10 in the Children’s Stage Area. Parental supervision is required. Personal pets are not allowed. https://calendar.jplibrary.net/event/readingrover-23276.

NOMA MUSEUM SHOP BOOK SALE: The Museum Shop at the New Orleans Museum of Art will hold a book sale, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. May 12-17 at the museum in City Park, 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle in New Orleans. Regular-priced books will be available for 20%-50% off, and sale books will be offered at a 70%+ markdown. https://noma.org/event/ noma-museum-shop-book-sale/. “THE FAITH OF NEW ORLEANS”: Local author Kathy Chappetta Spiess will discuss her new book at 7 p.m. May 12 at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon in Metairie. This event is free of charge and open to the public. Jplibrary.net.

MEETINGS

NATIONAL ACTIVE AND RETIRED FEDERAL EMPLOYEES: The Vernon L. Landry Chapter 1398 of NARFE will hold its monthly meeting and luncheon at 11 a.m. May 13 in the Sicilian Room at Rocky and Carlo’s Restaurant & Bar, 613 W. St. Bernard Highway in Chalmette. All active and retired federal and postal employees interested in learning more about how NARFE advocates legislation and regulations beneficial to federal civilian employees and annuitants under any federal civilian retirement are invited to attend. Pamela.e.mark1953@gmail.com.

CLASSES & LECTURES

NORLI LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM: New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute is accepting applications for its 10-month leadership program starting in August 2026. About 50 emerging and established leaders will take part in an immersive curriculum that builds regional awareness, collaboration and leadership through networking, hands-on learning and expert sessions. Topics include education, healthcare, public policy,

ä See AROUND, page 9G

AROUND

environment,

dents

Plaquemines,

and

parishes

Tuition

$25 for nonmembers. https://ogdenmuseum.org/ event/culture-cocktails-3/.

JEFFERSON PARISH VENDOR TRAINING: Jefferson Parish will hold training sessions for all current vendors to learn more about the new financial management system, an Enterprise Resource Planning solution by Infor Public Sector. The first session will take place

1:45-4 p.m. May 8 at the East Bank Regional Library (meeting room), 4747 W Napoleon Ave. in Metairie. The second session will take place 1:30-4:30 p.m. May 15, at the General Government Building (Second Floor Coun

cil Chambers), 200 Derbigny St. in Gretna. Registration is available online. www.JeffParish.gov/Purchasing. TEA LEAF READING WORKSHOP: The Mystic Resource Center, 1708 Lake Ave. in Metairie, will host a workshop on tea leaf reading starting at 3 p.m. May 9. www.mysticresourcecenter.com. PARENT SEMINARS: The Louisiana State Family Engagement Center will host a free parent webinar, “Policy 101: Navigating School Policies with Confidence.” The webinars still begin at 10 a.m. May 16 and 20 and at 5 p.m. May 21. (833) 792-1874.

MORRIS BART SR. LECTURE SERIES: Ethiopian-Israeli photographer Ephraim Wasse will present “A Life in Frames: Photography and My Ethiopian-Israeli Journey” at noon May 11 at the New Orleans JCCUptown, 5342 St. Charles Ave. in New Orleans. Admission is $10 for nonmembers, free for members. RSVPs are available online through May 7. www.nojcc.org/ events/2026/05/11/activeadult/morris-bart-sr.-lecture-series-a-life-in-framesphotography-and-my-ethiopian-israeli-journey/ THE LAGVANEC LECTURE: Cyril Lagvanec, curator of the American-Italian Research Library at the East Bank Regional Library, will give a lecture on two naval incidents involving U.S. ships at 7 p.m. May 11, in the Jefferson Room at the library 4747 W. Napoleon in Metairie. “Attacked in Silence: The Stories of the USS Liberty & USS Pueblo” will cover the USS Liberty incident in June 1967 and the USS Pueblo incident in January 1968. The event is free and open to the public. https://calendar.jplibrary.net/event/lagvaneclecture-20133. LEARNING BEFORE LUNCH: The May 14 meeting will be “Neurological and Legal Aspects of the Dementias,” led by elder law attorney Jason Frank and neurologist Randy Rosenberg, M.D. They will discuss the challenges and concerns of providing both neurological and legal services to individuals with dementia. The program will be held at UNO’s Homer L. Hitt Alumni Center, 2000 Lakeshore Drive in New Orleans, beginning at 9:30 a.m. with coffee and pastries. The presentation begins at 10 a.m. Annual membership is $2 per person, $30 per couple/double or a $5 donation for an event. www.learningbeforelunch.com.

Metro Club participates in Love the Boot Week

SCHOOLS

Dominican alums celebrate homecoming

Staff report

St. Mary’s Dominican High School celebrated its 64th homecoming Mass and luncheon in April.

Sally Ann Russo, a member of the class of 2004, was named the 2026 Alumna of the Year Since August 2022, Russo has served on the Dominican Board of Directors, having previously served two years as vice president of the Alumnae Advisory Council and two years as president of the alumnae association. She also volunteers with Hogs for the Cause. Russo is assistant vice president of human resources compliance and employee relations at Ochsner Health

The Class of 1976 announced a $60,000 donation to the Sr Dominic Savio En-

dowed Scholarship. Savio served Dominican as a teacher of English and religion, as well as president, assistant principal, administrative assistant in the attendance office, English department chairperson, yearbook lab moderator and on the Dominican College Alumnae Board Savio wrote the history of the school.

Milestone anniversaries were celebrated by the Class of 1976 (50th) and the Class of 2001 (25th). Other saluted class years included 1941, 1946, 1951, 1956, 1961, 1966, 1971, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2006, 2011, 2016, and 2021. Alumnae Lee Pittman, Class of 1951, was recognized as the wisest Lauren Guidroz, Class of 2015, was the youngest alum present. The homecoming Mass was celebrated by Patrick Carr pastor of St. Rita Church.

St. Mary’s Academy receives defibrillator from the Red Cross

for

entering grades 3-8 from June 1 to Aug. 7. Activities include basic cooking skills, such as grilling, sautéing, roasting, egg preparation and measuring and baking. The fee for each week’s session is $395. https://nolavore.net/cookingcamps-classes/. FINE ARTS FUNDAMENTALS CAMP: The Ogden Museum of Southern Art will hold four weeklong summer sessions for students in grades 2-6 at the museum, 925 Camp St. Sessions run 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday, June 8-July 10. Campers will explore various art forms including painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture and textiles. Camp fees start at $350. https://ogdenmuseum.org/summercamps/. PHOTOGRAPHY & EXHIBITION DESIGN: The Ogden Museum of Southern Art will hold a two-week summer session for students in grades 6-12 at the museum, 925 Camp St. Sessions run 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday, June 22-26 and July 6-10. Campers will learn the fundamental elements of photography, including composition, exposure and lighting, culminating in planning an exhibit for White Linen Night. Camp fees start at $600. https:// ogdenmuseum.org/summercamps/. PONY TALES BARN DAY CAMP: Ages 5-12 can spend a week at Pony Tales, 156 Bertucci Lane, St. Rose, learning about and interacting with barn animals, with a focus on pony/ horse safety, care and handling. Mornings include riding lessons or pony rides (no experience needed); afternoons feature games or crafts and themed weekly activities. Camp runs Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.

sessions run May 25-July 31, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., at the Port Sulphur YMCA, 278 Civic Drive in Port Sulphur, or the Buras YMCA, 36342 Highway 11 in Buras, for campers ages 5-12. Campers

COLLEGES

PROVIDED PHOTO Tulane students working on the Formula-style race car for their capstone are Trevor

back left, Ryan Ehnot, front left, Brice Busch, back right, and Elizabeth Itskovich, front right.

in the years ahead, is Tulane’s entry in a collegiate competition organized by SAE International, where teams are evaluated on both engineering design and on-track performance. The faculty adviser is Matt Barrios.