NATIONAL FLAG DAY

National Flag Day happens each year on June 14 to honor Old Glory and commemorates the adoption of the United States flag on June 14, 1777. The holiday is a day that Americans show respect for the U.S. Flag and what it represents. Representing independence and unity, the Star-Spangled Banner has become a powerful symbol of Americanism and the flag is flown proudly. 

While Betsy Ross has been given credit for stitching together the first American flag, there isn't any sound evidence supporting the story. At the same time, there isn't any to disprove it, either. Part of the conflict is there were several designs in consideration at the same time. There were many flag makers and more than one claim to the first. During Ross's Revolutionary time, several standards were carried bearing red and white stripes and varying symbols where the blue field and stars now reside.

Another who laid claim to the first design was Francis Hopkinson. His request for compensation for his design was denied because others contributed to the design final design. 

Since 1777, the design of the flag has been officially modified 26 times. For 47 years, the 48-star flag was in effect. In 1959, the 49-star version became official on July 4. President Eisenhower ordered the 50-star flag on August 21, 1959.

Seventeen-year-old Robert G. Heft of Ohio designed the 50-star American flag. His was one of the more than 1,500 designs that were submitted to President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

ARMY BIRTHDAY 

Every year on June 14 we celebrate the birthday of the United States Army. Let's tip our hats and raise a glass to the military branch that was born in 1775. 

Formed from amateur troops of volunteer soldiers defending colonies against British tyranny, the oldest military force in the United States began before the U.S. formally existed. Their forces consisted of mostly inexperienced militiamen commanded by independent colonial armies. According to battlefields.org, there were never more than 48,000 Continental soldiers at one time. Today, the United States Army consists of over 1 million active-duty service members and an additional 800,000 Army National Guard and Reserve members.

The enduring history of the U.S. Army means they have been integral to many of the United State's military, peace-keeping and humanitarian efforts. During the Army's Birthday, these and many advancements will be recognized through events

NATIONAL BOURBON DAY

National Bourbon Day falls on June 14 to recognize the Official Spirit of America. We are calling all bourbon lovers' across the globe to join us as we raise our glass for one of the smoothest whiskeys around.

Bourbon is a whiskey that can only be called by the word when it is distilled in the United States. Like scotch, cognac, and some other spirits, bourbon must meet certain standards and be produced in a specific geographical region to earn its name. For a distiller to legally label their whiskey as "Bourbon," they must meet specific criteria:

• The whiskey must be 51 percent corn.
• The distiller must store the whiskey in new (not aged) charred-oak barrels,
• The whiskey must be distilled at no more than 160 proof.
• Distillers must ensure the Bourbon is barreled at 125 proof.

Bourbon's deep roots start with the immigrants who would homestead in Kentucky county. Early settlers established the county in 1785 and were large producers of corn. Back then, once they distilled the corn, they put it in barrels stamped "Old Bourbon," and shipped them down the Ohio River. These pioneers set their stills to work, producing a whiskey that lives on today. They also put their own stamp on the quality and flavors into their whiskey. From the oak barrels to the rich soils, Bourbon's character continues to grow throughout the years.

US Army Birthday

Friday, June 14 | 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Join The National WWII Museum in celebrating the US Army’s 249th birthday on June 14!

The Museum will mark this service birthday with FREE admission for all active-duty and reserve members, retirees, and veterans of the Army. Complimentary admission is for Museum only; ticket purchase is required for Beyond All Boundaries and the Freedom Theater Experience.

New Orleans set to close one of city's largest homeless encampments

• BY SOPHIE KASAKOVE

One of New Orleans' most prominent homeless encampments along Calliope Street is being cleared out and closed, the fourth site that Cantrell administration officials and nonprofit partners have targeted in recent months with pressure rising as the city prepares to host next year's Super Bowl downtown.

The areas under the Pontchartrain Expressway between Carondelet and Baronne streets already show signs of the planned closure, set for Thursday.

Just last week, the area was packed with tent after tent. By early afternoon on Wednesday, only around a dozen or so were remaining, and piles of discarded trash and belongings — a mattress, a cooler, cardboard signs requesting spare change and food — were strewn across the grassy areas.

City officials have faced calls for years to address the encampment, which is situated between heavily trafficked expressway off-ramps and located near many tourist destinations in the Central Business District.

The city announced it will close the encampment of unhoused people living under the Pontchartrain Expressway between Baronne and Carondelet St. in New Orleans. By Wednesday morning many people had been housed at city shelters June 12, 2024. (Staff photo by John McCusker, The Times-Picayune | NOLA.com)

STAFF PHOTO BY JOHN MCCUSKER

The program to clear downtown encampments and provide subsidized housing for the people living in them began last year, and though there were stumbling blocks early on, city officials have celebrated their progress. Nathaniel Fields, director of the city's Office of Homeless Services, told City Council members at a committee meeting on Monday that 154 people have been housed from the three encampments that have already been closed. 

Other city officials and business leaders have also highlighted the progress in recent weeks. They've cited the project as a crucial part of the city's preparations for cleaning up downtown areas before New Orleans plays host to hundreds of thousands of visitors and media from around the world when the Super Bowl is held in the Caesars Superdome in February. 

The Calliope encampment is one of the last highly visible sites on the city's list of 15 total areas that it is targeting. Officials closed a large encampment at the intersection of Calliope and Tchoupitoulas street in November, an encampment on Claiborne Avenue in February, and an encampment on Baronne Street that stretched under the width of the Pontchartrain expressway in April.

At ‘Olympics of cuisine,’ USA takes gold, New Orleans poised to host mega chef event again

BY IAN MCNULTY

Team USA takes gold at the Bocuse d’Or qualifying round in New Orleans, along with Canada (silver) and Mexico (bronze), at the New Orleans convention center. (Staff photo by Ian McNulty, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune)

• Ian McNulty

The chefs of Team USA worked side by side in open competition kitchens specially designed for them, their intensity evident as the spotlights glared above and the clock ticked down to their deadline.

When winners of this international chef competition were announced, that scene of hushed rigor was placed by a surge of emotion from the chefs and their supporters, straining against the rope barriers, waving national flags, clanking cowbells, honking air horns and cheering their hearts out.

This was a qualifying round for Bocuse d’Or. It’s called the Olympics of cuisine, the World Cup for chefs, and the metaphors were manifest in real life as the competition went down inside the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center this week.

Along with the related Pastry World Cup, teams from around the world compete to advance to the finals, held Lyon, France every other year, with the next coming up in January. New Orleans hosted the selections for teams from North America and South America.

Team USA took the gold medal and will continue its campaign for the ultimate Bocuse d’Or prize, along with teams from Canada (silver), Mexico (bronze) and wild card qualifiers Chile and Colombia.

Returning to New Orleans?

Bocuse d’Or and the Pastry World Cup are considered the most prestigious competition at the highest level of modern global cuisine. It's food as art, and national pride, and it's followed obsessively by chefs and food aficionados around the world. This year marked the first time that any round was held in North America, with New Orleans as host city.

There are early signs now that New Orleans could host again when continental-round qualifiers come around again in 2026.

Bocuse d’Or officials announced their intent to do just that during a party for chefs and guests at the home of local attorney John Houghtaling. Details, and contracts, to bring the event back haven’t been made yet. But the announcement was a promising sign after the city and its hospitality community rolled out the red carpet for their international culinary guests.

The week of events served as a curtain-raiser for what could be possible if the international culinary connection through New Orleans grows with these events.

The competition brought many high-level chefs to town, both as contenders and supporters of the Bocuse d’Or campaign. For some, meeting star chefs like Thomas Keller and Daniel Boulud in New Orleans was akin to spotting Mick Jagger in town during Jazz Fest. Many of these visiting chefs were effusive in their praise for the city.

“We’ve been trying to get Bocuse d’Or to the U.S. for a very long time,” said Jerome Bocuse, president of the competition, during a reception for chefs held at Mardi Gras World.

“This city has a soul you don’t find in the entire United States and I couldn’t imagine a better place for us,” he said.

Global competition, exposure

Bocuse is a chef and the son of the competition’s namesake and creator, the Paul Bocuse, known as the father of modern French cuisine. He started the Bocuse d’Or in 1987 to bring global cuisine to his hometown, Lyon, the culinary capital of France, and create the world’s most rigorous culinary competition.

Today, teams representing 60 countries vie for spots in the final competition, with 24 teams worldwide selected to advance through qualifier rounds like the one held in New Orleans.

A dessert entry from Team Colombia at the Pastry World Cup in New Orleans was made from chocolate and sugar with a theme of honey. (Staff photo by Ian McNulty, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune)

BY IAN MCNULTY | Staff writer

Landing America’s first official Bocuse d’Or event in New Orleans was a major accomplishment. Local chefs in attendance called it an inspiration, watching pros at the peak of their profession at work here, while hospitality leaders said the event was an endorsement of New Orleans as a culinary capital.

Walt Leger Jr., president and CEO of the tourism marketing agency New Orleans & Co., said it was part of showcasing the city and its modern culinary culture on a global stage.

'Very impressive'

For the event's French organizers, one aim of the competition was also to boost awareness of Bocuse d’Or and the level of achievement it represents on this side of the ocean.

“Bocuse d’Or is not that well known in this part of the world, but that’s why we’re here, the purpose is to raise its profile here,” said Florent Suplisson, the director of Bocuse d'Or.

He too was pleased with the decision to come to New Orleans.

• “New Orleans to me is very impressive, the mix of cultures, it does something important for gastronomy, and to me gastronomy is culture,” said Suplisson said. “It’s specific to the U.S. and it’s different here in New Orleans. I love that.”

It was home to the Peppermill for 47 years, now it’s a new Metairie steakhouse.

• BY IAN MCNULTY

Vacca Steakhouse opened in 2024 in Metairie with an old school approach. (Staff photo by Ian McNulty, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune)

Breakfast was the thing at Riccobono’s Peppermill, and for decades it was a destination near the heart of Metairie’s business district for morning meetings and more casual social gatherings over the table. Since closing last summer, the future of its location had been an open question.

But now the former Peppermill at 3524 Severn Ave. is home to a new restaurant aiming to serve a similar role later in the day, and with much different menu, look and style.

The longtime home of Riccobono's Peppermill was transformed in 2024 to become Vacca Steakhouse in Metairie. (Staff photo by Ian McNulty, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune)

Vacca Steakhouse opened in June as a new restaurant modeled on a classic template.

It’s a place for martinis at the bar, a cabernet-lover’s wine list, steaks that arrive with sizzle, sides portioned to share and a vein of Creole and Italian flavors running alongside the beef.

Who’s behind it?

Jonathan Brisbi and Darrell Dumestre partnered to open the restaurant and brought in two familiar names from the local hospitality business to run Vacca as operators.

At the front of the house there’s Tim Waguespack, formerly food and beverage manager at the historic Hotel Monteleone in the French Quarter.

The kitchen is run by Carmen Provenzano Jr., who cooked at Pascal’s Manale Restaurant and ran the Uptown classic after it was bought in 2019 by his uncle, the late auto magnate Ray Brandt. Pascal’s Manale changed hands again in 2023 and is now part of the Dickie Brennan & Co. restaurant group.

The old Peppermill is now identifiable only by the exterior. Inside, the restaurant has been redone with a pair of dining rooms with dark tones and gold and brass fixtures for a look that’s upscale and still cozy.

One of those rooms, the Vitello Room, is configured for regular service and also private events and holds about 50 people. The entire restaurant can seat about 125.

Bar and menu

The large bar is a new centerpiece, and Vacca's operating hours have been designed around it. The restaurant opens in the mid-afternoon most days and for lunch on Friday, part of its bid to become that place to take some business to the bar or dive into an elevated, social lunch to end the week.

Vacca serves certified prime Angus beef through house cuts including a cowboy rib eye, a N.Y. strip and a 42 oz. porterhouse for two. At the top of the menu, there’s crab cakes, fried lobster tails, onion rings and wedge salads and a dish called oysters Severn, with fried oysters and brie over thick-cut bacon.

Entrees run through fish and chicken dishes, a steakhouse cheeseburger and Italian flavors (reflecting Provenzano’s background) like lobster fra diavoli.

Desserts range from simple warm cookies and milk to a family-sized “gigantic carrot cake,” which is $30.

A Metairie niche

Brisbi once ran Brisbi’s Lakefront Restaurant & Bar in New Orleans and sold that waterfront spot to Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar in 2018. He’s now a partner in several bars and the new upscale lounge, Jolie, in the Warehouse District.

“I wasn’t looking to get into anything else, unless it was an old-school steakhouse and then this opportunity came around and that’s exactly what this is,” said Brisbi.

The Peppermill opened in 1976. In September 2023, the Riccobono family closed the restaurant and put the property up for sale. It was at least a partial retirement for longtime co-proprietor Vincent Riccobono (he still runs the much smaller Riccobono’s Panola Street Café in New Orleans).

Other restaurants swiftly responded to the void this left in the Metairie breakfast game, including nearby Drago’s and another Riccobono family restaurant, Sala, in the West End. But Dumestre and Brisbi saw a different opportunity on Severn Avenue.

“There’s a niche in this part of Metairie for a locally-owned, old school steakhouse,” said Dumestre.

Vacca Steakhouse

3524 Severn Ave., 504-318-3808

Wed.-Thu. 3-9 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sat. 3-10 p.m. (closed Sun.-Tue.)

'A Family Reunion': The United Houma Nation brings back its annual powwow June 15-16

• BY SARAH RAVITS Jun 9, 2024 

The United Houma Nation brings back its traditional powwow June 15-16 at the Barry P. Bonvillain Civic Center in Houma. 

Photo provided by Tara Fitch / The United Houma Nation

With an upcoming powwow, the United Houma Nation is making up for lost time.

The group of 19,000 tribal members, spread across six Louisiana parishes, have been focusing their efforts on recovering their homes and people after being hard-hit by the Covid pandemic, followed by hurricanes Zeta and Ida.

That’s on top of the growing concerns over land loss from coastal erosion over the years.

But these threats have fueled the Indigenous communities to further band together and fight for their survival.

The group's first powwow since before the pandemic is being held June 15 and June 16 at the Barry P. Bonvillain Civic Center in Houma, and it’s certainly a bright spot, says Lora Ann Chaisson, principal chief.

“It’s been a lot of work,” Chaisson says. “But the powwow is a celebration. There will be lots of different styles of dancing, and different tribes coming in.”

A powwow is basically a huge social gathering celebrating Indigenous cultures, with drumming and music, dancing, rituals and food. The United Houma Nation’s will offer white beans, Louisiana seafood and Indian tacos, along with art for sale.

It’s a chance for the Louisiana coastal region’s tribal members to share traditions, reunite with each other and share their customs with non-tribal members.

And it’s not only a showcase of the South Louisiana tribes that make up the United Houma Nation, who come from Lafourche, Terrebonne, St. Bernard, Plaquemines, St. Mary and Jefferson parishes. There will be tribal representatives from Oklahoma, Tennessee, Alabama and North Carolina flocking in to share their own rituals, all while dressed in “beautiful regalia,” Chaisson says.

The event also aims to raise awareness and solidarity for people with disabilities within the tribal communities and beyond. Chaisson says their disabled members make important contributions to the organization and society as a whole.

“We want to show that people with disabilities have abilities,” she says.

New Orleans photographer Virginia Hanusik captures where South Louisiana life and water collide in new book

Hanusik's photos are paired with written pieces by a host of collaborators describing joy and heartbreak in South Louisiana.

There will be official tribal business occurring over the weekend, including a blessing of the powwow circle and the swearing in of new tribal council members who were elected June 1.

But then it’s time to party.

For those who have never been to a powwow, Chaisson says there are a few easy guidelines. For instance, people shouldn’t walk in and out of the powwow circle.

“Just be respectful,” she says. “Don’t touch people’s feathers ... They are medicine, they are sacred. And ask if you can take a picture.”

But Chaisson says it’s an inviting space for anyone to come learn and celebrate alongside the tribes, and there will be plenty of seating around the circle.

“Everyone is welcome,” she says. "We're excited to see all of our folks that we haven't seen in so long, to have the dancing and the drums back. I'm looking forward to it, and so many people are. It's been so long ... It's a big family reunion.”

The United Houma Nation powwow takes place at the Barry P. Bonvillain Civic Center at 346 Houma Blvd. in Houma. Doors open at 10 a.m. both days, with grand entry scheduled for noon. For more information, visit unitedhoumanation.org.

Charlie's Steak House

Location

4510 Dryades St

New Orleans, LA

70115

What does "incognito" mean?

Disguised

False

Espionage

Closed

What does "incognito" mean?

Disguised

incognito Pronunciation: in-kog-nee-toh

Definition: With one's true identity concealed; using an assumed name or appearance for the purpose of deception or anonymity.

Origin: The word "incognito" originated from the Latin word "incognitus," meaning "unknown." It first appeared in English in the early 17th century.

Example: The celebrity tried to travel incognito, wearing sunglasses, a hat, and a scarf to disguise her appearance.

Disguised: Disguised is a synonym for incognito, meaning to conceal one's true identity or appearance. When someone is disguised, they are attempting to deceive or hide from others. This can be done through the use of costumes, makeup, or other means of altering one's appearance. Disguises are often used in espionage, as well as in theater and film. In some cases, disguises may be used for personal safety or to avoid recognition by someone who poses a threat. Like incognito, disguised implies a level of secrecy and anonymity.

Birdon America to Expand Jefferson Parish Marine Engineering Office, Create 25 High-Paying New Jobs

ELMWOOD, La. — Birdon America, the U.S. arm of an Australia-based marine engineering and construction firm, announced it will expand its Jefferson Parish office to provide engineering design, supply chain, construction, and program management support for a new $1.1 billion U.S. Coast Guard contract.

The company plans to invest $3.3 million and create 25 direct new jobs at an average salary of $99,395 to oversee engineering and project management of construction and delivery of 27 state-of-the-art waterways commerce cutter vessels (WCCs). Birdon will retain 12 existing positions, and Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in 32 indirect jobs, for a total of 69 new and retained jobs in the Southeast Region.

"We celebrate the expansion of Birdon America's facility and continued commitment to Jefferson Parish," said Michael Hecht, president and CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc. "This investment not only reinforces Louisiana's proud shipbuilding legacy but also brings new manufacturing jobs to our region, fueling economic growth and opportunity. Birdon America's commitment to innovation will be made possible by two of the state's most valuable business incentives that focus on local job creation."

“Birdon America’s decision to stay and grow in Louisiana to help build the vessels that protect our ports is a testament to the economic impact of Louisiana’s longstanding support for the U.S. military and national defense,” said LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois. “A billion-dollar defense contract, high-paying new engineering jobs and the local expansion of a respected global employer demonstrate what is possible for maritime companies doing business in our state.”

The U.S. Coast Guard awarded the contract in 2023 to enhance maintenance and protection of the U.S. Intracoastal and Inland Marine Transportation System. An estimated 630 million tons of cargo is transported through this vital 12,000-mile system of commercially active waterways, accounting for more than $5.4 trillion of annual commerce and supporting 30.7 million U.S. jobs.

“Louisiana is a major hub for shipbuilding in America,” said Robert Scott, President of Birdon America. “It made sense to grow in this area based on the history of the workforce, supply chain availability for shipbuilding and geographic proximity to bodies of water. Birdon’s commitment to helping grow the defense industry base is shown by over 98% of our suppliers are U.S. companies and 70% of the contract will be performed by small businesses, many of them in Louisiana.” 

Birdon will collaborate with leading defense technology partners to integrate state-of-the-art systems for enhanced performance and efficiency. The 27 vessels will be constructed by Birdon over a 10-year period.

“We are honored that Birdon America has chosen to continue calling Jefferson Parish home,” said Jefferson Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng. “They are able to serve our nation from right here in Jefferson Parish thanks to a skilled workforce, ease of accessibility and a strong supply chain that can support this kind of work. We commend Birdon America for their important and far-reaching impact. We look forward to supporting their efforts on this project and many others in the future.”

To win the project in Elmwood, LED offered a competitive incentives package that included the comprehensive workforce development solutions of LED FastStart. The company is also expected to participate in the state’s Quality Jobs program.

“The Birdon America expansion is a significant retention success for Jefferson Parish,” said JEDCO president and CEO Jerry Bologna. “Not only will Birdon’s continued investment in our community create new jobs and partnership opportunities, but also it reinforces our position as a global leader in the engineering and defense industries. We are proud to support Birdon America’s growth in Jefferson Parish.”

Register here to be notified about Birdon America job opportunities, hiring events and news updates.

Best Snowballs in New Orleans | Top 10 New Orleans Snowball Stands

By: Emily Hingle

When the weather gets hot in New Orleans, which is most of the year, you can find this tasty treat to cool you off. The snowball is a delicacy of the modern day when freezing water to make ice was finally invented. Local businessmen George Ortolano and Ernest Hansen created ice-shaving machines in the 1930s that would go on to make snowballs for nearly a century. Today, you can get snowballs across Louisiana, but everyone has their favorite spot because of all the great snowball memories.

These New Orleans snowball stands have been cranking out snowballs seasonally for years. Each one has their own specialties, but there are lots of excellent flavors at all of them.

WHERE TO GET SNOWBALLS IN NEW ORLEANS

1. Hansens's Sno-Bliz

4801 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 891-9788

snobliz.com

Hansen's Sno-Bliz [Courtesy of Hansen's Sno-Bliz Facebook]

When you drive past Hansen's, you'll probably notice a line down the block. The snowballs here are so good that New Orleanians have been enjoying them for almost a century! This humble snowball stand was awarded by the James Beard Awards in 2014 for being an "American Classic."

The regulars will always go for their favorite flavors, but there's no shame in trying one of the specialty limited flavors from time to time. Try a plain flavor like Pineapple, Grape, or Strawberry. The tart flavors include Satsuma, Limeade, and Fruit Punch. The new fancy flavors are also great: Hibiscus, Fresh Watermelon, Pink Peppermint, Ginger Cayenne, and more.

2. Imperial Woodpecker Sno-Balls

3511 Magazine St., (251) 366-7777

iwsnoballs.com

Imperial Woodpecker Sno-balls [Courtesy of iwsnoballs.com]

Imperial Woodpecker Sno-Balls celebrated a decade of serving snowballs on Magazine Street at Aline Street in 2023. What sets this stand apart from the rest are the all-natural house-made syrups that can be ordered, although there are traditional sugary syrups available as well.

The house-made flavors include, but are not limited to, Coconut Milk, Lemon Basil, Pineapple Cilantro, and Watermelon Jalapeño. The cream house-made flavors include Cereal Cream, Cream of Cardamom, Earl Grey Cream, Cream of Chicory Coffee, and Vanilla Bean Cream. Get one of those topped with Marshmallow Fluff or even some vanilla ice cream for a real treat.

3. Pandora's Snowballs

901 N Carrollton Ave., (504) 285-4867

facebook.com/PandorasSnowballs

Pandora's Snowballs [Courtesy of Pandora's Snowballs Facebook]

Pandora's Snowballs is easy to find when you're cruising down Carrollton. Just look for the line of people waiting on the corner of Dumaine Street. This Mid-City institution is open seasonally, but it's totally worth coming back in the summer to get a snowball to keep cool.

The cream syrups are really the standouts. There are dozens of flavors to try. The Orchid Vanilla Cream and Wedding Cake Cream are more sophisticated, while the Sky Blue Cream and Nectar Cream are for Pandora's biggest fans. There's also options including Red Velvet Cream, Cookie Dough Cream, Grasshopper Cream, Bananas Foster Cream, and Buttercream Cream just to name a few.

4. Sno-La

8108 Hampson St., (504) 327-7669

snolasnowballs.com

Sno-La [Courtesy of Sno-La Facebook]

There's something very special about Sno-La. This snowball stand stuffs the inside of their snowballs with cheesecake. That's right! You have the option of having a snowball with a big chunk of creamy cheesecake right in the middle. There are plenty of traditional snowballs, too.

The Sno-La Favorite is a red velvet cream snowball stuffed with cheesecake, and The Pelican is a Bananas Foster cream and red velvet cream snowball stuffed with cheesecake and topped with condensed milk. The Chantilly Cake is a gorgeous treat: wedding cake cream and strawberry snowball stuffed with cheesecake, strawberries, and blueberries, and topped with whipped cream or condensed milk.

5. The Original New Orleans Sno-balls & Smoothee

4313 Elysian Fields Ave., (504) 309-5346

[Courtney Cook, Unsplash]

New Orleans Sno-balls has so much more than shaved ice treats, though that would be reason enough to visit it. They've got great flavor options like Bahama Mama, Cantaloupe, Polar Punch, and Tsunami, in addition to all the usual flavors you know well. The cream flavors deserve some attention. You can't find snowballs like Pralines-N-Cream, Strawberry Shortcake, or Banana Cream anywhere else.

You can also get a refreshing smoothie or concessions like hot dogs, corn dogs, and popcorn. To make a meal out of it, get a dozen Hot Tamales. It's a totally New Orleans tradition!

6. Rodney's Snowball Stand

9231 Lake Forest Blvd., (504) 241-2035

[Lance Anderson, Unsplash]

Rodney's is a favorite snowball stand for many Westbank residents. The traditional snowballs, in flavors like Passionfruit, Butterscotch, Banana, and Mango, keep them coming back, but the Deluxe Cream Flavors topped with condensed milk are special. The Piña Colada Cream can transport you to a tropical beach.

When you're at Rodney's, you may also be tempted to get a second dessert like a Hot Caramel Pecan Pie Sundae, a Strawberry Malt, or a Root Beer Float. If you prefer something hot and savory, the Hot Tamales or Chili Cheese Nachos will fill you up.

7. Ike's Snowballs

520 City Park Ave., (504) 208-9983

ikessnowballs.com

Ike's Snowballs [Courtesy of Ike's Snowballs Facebook]

If you're heading to City Park, stop by Ike's right next to MoPho for a big, cold snowball. There are a lot of options including cream, sugar-free, and clear flavors. There are also two very special snowballs just for dogs, who are welcome to hang out on the porch. They will love the chicken or roast beef snowballs made just for them.

The humans in your life will probably prefer a regular old snowball in a traditional flavor like Cake Batter, Tiger's Blood, Green Apple, or Strawberry, or something special like a Wine Cooler, Georgia Peach, Silver Fox, or Mojito.

8. Sal's Sno-Balls

1823 Metairie Ave., (504) 666-1823

facebook.com/salssnoball

Sal's Sno-Balls [Courtesy of Sal's Sno-Balls Facebook]

Old Metairie folks rejoice when Sal's Sno-Balls opens for the season. Sal's may have the best snowballs in Jefferson Parish. Sal's keeps their menu simple, which means that the line moves pretty fast. People take their snowballs and eat them sitting on the tree stumps underneath the shady trees around the stand. You may be able to get a cup of shaved ice for your four-legged friend if you ask.

Sal's signature flavors are popular with the regulars: Popeye, Purple Dream, Sock-It-To-Me, and S'mores are one-of-a-kind. Sample one of the cream flavors like the Crème de Mint or a chocolate flavor like the Cherry Sip for something different.

9. Bubby's Snoballs

247 Harrison Ave., (504) 905-2366

facebook.com/bubbyssnoballs

Bubby's Snoballs [Courtesy of Bubby's Snoballs Facebook]

Bubby's has a loyal clientele of Lakeview families who love walking over to the stand on hot days. Traditional snowballs are the main feature, but there are some snacks and soft-serve ice cream that may persuade you as well.

Adults will love the cocktail-inspired flavors like Hurricane, Margarita, Mojito, White Russian, and Pina Colada. Kids of all ages will appreciate Candy Apple, Wild Cherry, Nectar Cream, and Dreamsicle. You can get your dreamy snowball topped with a number of things, including gummy bears, strawberries, nuts, and Butterfingers.

10. Downtown 504 Snowballz

1703 N Broad St., (504) 344-9199

facebook.com/DownTown504Snowballz

NATIONAL STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE DAY

National Strawberry Shortcake Day on June 14 lands at the peak of strawberry season. While we are able to get strawberries all year long now, the best strawberries are those picked from April to June. These bright red berries during this time are sweeter and more flavorful. By adding them to a shortcake biscuit or a sponge cake, strawberry shortcake is an easy and refreshing summertime dessert!

Strawberry shortcake can be found as far back as 1588 in England. However, it wasn't until the 1800s strawberry shortcake made its way to the U.S. Eliza Leslie of Philadelphia receives credit for the first recipe for strawberry shortcake in her cookbook The Lady's Receipt-Book. Though she referred to them as "strawberry cakes," her recipe was used to popularize this delicious dessert in homes. 

By the late 1850s, Americans began adding a strawberry sauce with slices of fresh strawberries to the top of their shortcakes. The dessert was a June favorite because many people would celebrate their strawberry harvest with strawberry shortcake parties. This tradition is still celebrated across the country today. 

Today, strawberries are sliced, mixed with sugar then allowed to sit for about an hour until they have surrendered plenty of their juices. The shortcakes are then split, and the bottom is covered with a layer of the strawberries, juice and whipped cream. The top is then put back on, and more strawberries, juice and whipped cream are added to finish it off.

NATIONAL CUCUMBER DAY

Today is June 14 and National Cucumber Day at National Day Calendar and we are enjoying fresh cucumbers all day long! Join us as we crunch on this crisp summer favorite and enjoy the fruits of summer.

You can almost taste the crisp, watery goodness of a cucumber during the summer months. With fresh fruits and vegetables at our fingertips, we feel very little guilt indulging in this salad favorite. Whether we grow them in our garden or purchase them at a local farmers market, we love the freshness a cucumber adds to our diets.

Most people think cucumbers are a vegetable. In fact, they are actually a fruit in the watermelon family Cucurbitaceae. Cucumbers are normally a long and have a cylindrical shape, and are grown in different sizes. There are also around 100 different types of cucumbers around the world.

Most cucumbers have green flesh with a white inside. The Lemon Cucumber has yellow skin and a tart taste. However, the Albino cucumber is a rare heirloom cucumber grown by seed savers. A seed saver is someone who saves seeds year-to-year and prevents cross-pollination with another seed variety.

Crunchy History

Cucumbers have been cultivated for nearly 3,000 years originating in Asia. It is unclear how or when cultivation was introduced to Ancient Greek and Roman Empires, but records show both upper and lower class people of those times were cultivating cucumbers as part of their diet. Europeans would bring cucumbers to the U.S. some time during exploration. Benjamin Watson's Heirloom Vegetables book stated "in 1539 DeSoto found Indians in Florida growing cucumbers that were "better than those of Spain.""

How do you eat cucumbers? Cucumbers are a common salad food. However, cucumbers are a main ingredient in the puree of gazpacho soup. In addition, tea houses in Britain serve cucumber sandwiches with tea because its lightness pairs well with afternoon tea.

Though most people slice cucumbers and eat them in salads, many people use them for pickling. Pickling possibly dates back as far as the Mesopotamians who would preserve cucumbers in a brine solution. Today, Americans consumer almost 10 pounds of pickles per person in one year! Unsurprisingly, Kosher dill pickles have been a favorite among households since the 19th century thanks to Eastern European Jews emigrating to the U.S.

NATIONAL PICKLE DAY - November 14

Read More

7 Cucumber Facts

1. Placing sliced cucumber on your tongue for a few minutes will eliminate bad breath.
2. Cucumbers reduce and ease face swelling, especially around the eye area.
3. Boiling sliced cucumbers releases a natural stress reducer into the air.
4. Cucumbers are 95% water, which make them a great substitute for hydration.
5. The waxy coating of a cucumber will erase a pen on anything.
6. Eating cucumbers before bed after a night of too many adult beverages will help your body recover from a hangover the next day.
7. Pureeing cucumber and applying it to a sunburn provides instant relief.

On Deck for June 14, 2024

National Days

ARMY BIRTHDAY

NATIONAL MOVIE NIGHT

NATIONAL CUCUMBER DAY

NATIONAL FLAG DAY

NATIONAL BOURBON DAY

NATIONAL STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE DAY

WEAR BLUE DAY

NATIONAL POP GOES THE WEASEL DAY

NATIONAL NEW MEXICO DAY

On Deck for June 15, 2024

National Days

NATIONAL BIG BOY DAY

NATIONAL FOAM PARTY DAY

NATIONAL MEGALODON DAY

NATIONAL SMILE POWER DAY

NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY DAY

WORLD MARTINI DAY

June 14th Celebrated History

1775

The Second Continental Congress creates a Continental Army of existing militias (some that still exist today) to protect the Northern colonies from British troops.

1777

Congress adopts the first United States Flag. Since its creation, the Stars and Stripes has been officially modified 26 times. The last design became official on August 21, 1959, with the admittance of Hawaii to the union.

1885

The Indianapolis Journal publishes James Whitcomb Riley’s poem titled “‘Long About Knee-Deep in June” for the first time. We’ve included an excerpt to celebrate the mid-point of June.

1919

Captain John Alcock and Lieutenant Arthur Whitten Brown began the first non-stop transatlantic flight. They departed from St. Johns, Newfoundland, and crossed 1,890 miles in 16 hours, 27 minutes, and they arrived in Clifden, Ireland the next day.

1954

On Flag Day in 1954, Congress added the words “under God” to the Pledge of Allegiance in response to the anti-Communist opinion sweeping the country during the Cold War.

June 14th Celebrated Birthdays

Harriet Beecher Stowe – 1811

A prolific author and advocate, Harriet Beecher Stowe is best known for her novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Unique for her time, Stowe vocally debated topics of the day and provided financially for her family through teaching, her written works and speaking engagements.

Ida MacLean – 1877

In 1920, the British biochemist became the first woman admitted to the London Chemical Society.

Fred Baur – 1918

The American chemist designed the Pringles can as a uniform way to stack the chips. Upon his death in 2008, his family buried his ashes in a Pringles can, per the inventor’s wishes.

Donald Trump – 1946

The American businessmen served as the 45th President of the United States from 2017-2021.

Life Is LouisianaLouisiana History

Ben Patterson

Bear Musso

Louisiana State Archives

 · 

The #LouisianaStateArchives is excited to announce our highly anticipated new exhibition, “America’s Last Fair: The 1984 Louisiana World Exposition”, opening Monday, March 4, and on display through Friday, December 13, 2024.

The exhibition showcases the creative engineering and artistic talent of countless Louisianans who entertained visitors from May 12-November 12, 1984. We look forward to sharing memories from the ‘84 Expo with you, so mark your calendars for a date with the Archives! #americaslastfair #worldsfairs #neworleanshistory #seymoredfair

THE DOOKY CHASE KITCHEN: LEAH’S LEGACY cooking series celebrates Leah Chase, the “Queen of Creole Cuisine.”

The 26-part cooking series, produced by WYES-TV in New Orleans, was shot on location at Dooky Chase’s Restaurant with dishes prepared by younger generations of the Chase family who have led the restaurant since Leah’s death in 2019.

Viewers will meet Leah’s grandson, Edgar “Dook” Chase IV, who now oversees the restaurant’s kitchen; her niece Cleo Robinson, who joined Leah in the kitchen in 1980; and the restaurant’s newest chef, Leah’s great-granddaughter Zoe Chase. Paired with some of the menus are specialty cocktails crafted by Leah’s granddaughter Eve Marie Haydel, the restaurant’s beverage manager who has updated drink recipes from the restaurant’s earlier days. Granddaughter Chase Kamata narrates. Each 30-minute episode explores a new take on Creole classics and a different chapter of the restaurant’s history.

See it every Saturday at 10am & Sundays at 11:30am.

Watch on WYES-TV and stream on wyes.org/live and on the WYES and PBS Apps. Out of WYES’ viewing area? Contact your local public television station for air dates. For a limited time, see new episodes with WYES Passport.

Glass Recycling Locations

Don't forget, we now have three recycling locations in the neighborhood. And its not just for glass! You can bring paper, cardboard, aluminum cans, and plastics #1 and #2.

All drop off locations are from 11:00 - 2:30 and a friendly Glass Half Full employee will be ready to assist.

Tuesdays: Jazz Museum (Barracks St. Entrance)

Thursdays: Cabrini Park

Sundays: Hisgtoric New Orleans Collection (616 Toulouse)

In Person Classes in New Orleans

Mondays, 7:30-8:30pm

"Shimmer" Bellydance Basics

For all levels. Ongoing

$60 per month or $18 drop in.

10 classes, used within 10 wk., $120

At: "The Movement Collective"

3921 St. Claude Ave, (Bywater)

New Orleans

 Tamalyn Dallal

Movement Collective - New Orleans

Public 

 ·

Mondays, 7:30-8:30pm

Come and dance...

Bring veils, zils, and your hips to do lots of shimmies.

$18 per class, $60 per month

10 classes for $120

www.tamalyndallal.net

Comedy House New Orleans

The most unique comedy show in New Orleans is The Open Mic From Hell, hosted by Chris Trew (as seen on MTV, Comedy Central, America's Got Talent)

CHNO ( Comedy house New Orleans)

609-610 Fulton St

New Orleans, LA 70130

Mon, June 17

8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

(Entry at 7:30 pm)

The Open Mic From Hell is the most unique night of comedy in New Orleans.

Everything about the show is chaotic and unpredictable in the most beautifully hilarious way. 

The list of performers? A total mystery. 

The jokes they’ll tell? Nobody knows, not even them. 

How does it work? Comedians sign-up on the list an hour before showtime. At least 13 names get pulled out of the bucket. 

When a name gets pulled they come on stage and make a choice - do they do an entirely new set based on words from the audience, or a special challenge set. 

Past challenges have had comics doing their set outside on the street, with noise canceling headphones on, and with a designated heckler in the crowd. We are always adding new, improved, and ridiculous challenges to the show. 

• 6711 Airline Dr, Metairie, LA, United States, Louisiana

(504) 733-2248

The New Orleans Juneteenth Festival commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It is a time of reflection, celebration, and community engagement.

The festival is on Wednesday, June 19 from 12 pm - 6 pm at Congo Square, with a Second-Line at noon to kick off the event. New Orleans Juneteenth Festival provides an artistic space for local performing artists, vendors, and speakers to express their creativity while celebrating what liberation looks like through the lens of New Orleans culture.

St. Bernard Parish Government 

 · 

**Juneteenth Committee to Commemorate Juneteenth in St. Bernard Parish**

St. Bernard Parish, LA – The Juneteenth Committee is delighted to announce a heartfelt community event commemorating Juneteenth, taking place on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 from 9am - 11am at Val Riess. This celebration aims to foster education, cultural awareness, and honor the historical significance of Juneteenth.

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It is a day for celebration, reflection, and learning. The Juneteenth Committee has organized a rich array of activities including historical presentations, a catered breakfast, music, and water activities for children.

"We are thrilled to partner with our sponsors and the St. Bernard Parish Office of Tourism to bring the community together once again to honor the rich history and achievements of African Americans," said April Columbus, President of the Juneteenth Committee. "Every year, this event provides an opportunity for all residents of St. Bernard Parish to come together, learn, and celebrate the emancipation of the enslaved. We aim to raise awareness and commemorate Juneteenth in a meaningful way."

This year's event will highlight and commemorate the Historical Fazendeville Community of St. Bernard Parish. By focusing on the importance of our roots, community, education, unity, and cultural appreciation, we hope to ignite a spirit of inclusivity and inspire our local leaders and government.

Philip Melancon

Gennifer Flowers' Kelsto Club

Wednesday Speakeasy at 7 …

720 St Louis, Across from Antoine’s

. . . No Cover

On Friday, June 21st from 6:00 – 8:00 PM, International House celebrates the advent of sultry summer with reverence and Vodou mystique found only in this

impossibly interesting city.

For centuries, the Summer Solstice has been celebrated worldwide, marking a time of transition and renewal. 

But, today, we’re the only hotel in the world that honors this sacred time with a local blend of Haitian Vodou, Catholicism, Native American tradition and Masonic mystery - paired, of course, with an extraordinary cocktails.

Kindly join us - dressed in white - for a fascinating evening. The rhythm of drums. A fascinating Priestess. This Creole World brought vividly to life. This beguiling Solstice celebration has happened annually for 150 years - first by legendary Voodoo Queen    Marie Laveau and now by the remarkable Priestess Sallie Ann Glassman.

New Orleans Jazz Club

JAZZ, JAZZ, JAZZ... we're back this Sunday, for some great Jazz from fantastic musicians at Mo's Chalet from 2:00 to 6:00 pm. It's an open Jam Session to Trad Jazz musicians and those who love the music which is FREE and open to the public. NOTICE to musicians...all musicians are welcome to play whether you're a regular or new to the Club. Keyboards and drums are provided so bring your ax and sign in and you'll be assigned 1 of 4 sets to perform in. Mo's provides a safe and welcoming environment for an afternoon of New Orleans Jazz. Bring your family and friends to create your own Jazz party where outside food is OK with a cash bar hosted by Sandy, Metairie's finest plus join in on our 50/50 cash drawing. Become a member and be a part of New Orleans music history by supporting America's oldest Jazz Club which was started in 1948. The NOJC Jam Session's are held on the last Sunday of the month from 2:00 to 6:00 pm.

NEW ORLEANS — The City of New Orleans Department of Safety & Permits’ Healthy Homes Administration today announced their next series of Landlord Information Sessions. After the success of the first session, held on May 30 at Gernon Brown Recreation Center, and due to overwhelming interest from residents, the Healthy Homes Administration has now planned an additional seven meetings.  

Aimed at providing information for rental property owners across the city, each Landlord Information Session will offer landlords an opportunity to learn the requirements of the Healthy Homes Ordinance, as well as how to register rental property with the City of New Orleans.  

The registry process for Healthy Homes is being implemented in a phased approach, based on the total number of units on each parcel. The next round is for parcels with 4 – 49 dwelling units. Registration for these owners must be completed between July 1 to August 15, 2024. Owners of parcels with 4 – 49 dwelling units are encouraged to attend one of these sessions to receive more information on the process.  

There will be at least one meeting in each City Council District, including two in Districts C and E. The dates and locations are as follows: 

• Monday, June 24 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Norman Mayer Library (3001 Gentilly Blvd.) 
• Tuesday, June 25 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Algiers Regional Library (3014 Holiday Dr.) 
• Wednesday, June 26 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Rosenwald Recreation Center (1120 S. Broad St.) 
• Thursday, June 27 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Andrew Pete Sanchez Multi-Service Center (1616 Fats Domino Ave.) 
• Friday, June 28 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Treme Recreation Community Center (900 N. Villere St.) 
• Monday, July 1 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Robert E. Smith Library (6301 Canal Blvd.) 
• Tuesday, July 2 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at East New Orleans Regional Library (5641 Read Blvd.) 

Attendees must register here before attending a session. More information about the Healthy Homes Administration can be found online at nola.gov/next/healthy-homes. 

LSU Athletics is proud to announce its year-long celebration of 100 Years in Tiger Stadium, highlighted by stadium upgrades, events, storytelling initiatives, and a season-long celebration throughout the 2024 campaign.

Tiger Stadium, one of America’s most iconic sporting venues, first opened its gates on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 1924. Since then, the Tigers have won 450 contests in Death Valley, which has been home to two Heisman Trophy winners, four national championship teams, and 12 SEC title-winning squads.

Included in the celebration are several upgrades to Tiger Stadium, including a new videoboard and lighting system, as well as other upgrades designed to enhance the game day experience. Other events and celebrations will be announced throughout the year.

The 2024 home schedule features several marquee matchups, including home contests against Oklahoma, UCLA, and Alabama. Information on the full 2024 schedule and season tickets will be announced in the coming weeks.

One of the most legendary stadiums in all of college football, Tiger Stadium has been called “the best place in the world to watch a sporting event” by ESPN and “the pound-for-pound king of noise in college football.”

Entering its centennial season in 2024, Tiger Stadium has been a cornerstone of LSU Athletics and the Louisiana community for almost a century, hosting numerous NFL superstars, Heisman Trophy winners, and Hall of Famers since its opening in 1924. It serves as a sporting, cultural, and commercial hub for LSU Athletics, which contributes an estimated $500 million of economic activity for the state of Louisiana annually.

Southeastern Conference 

2024 SCHEDULE

LSU Football

NFL on FOX 

WE GOT NEXT.

See you in New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX on FOX