Spanish Article / Versión en españo l>> Mujeres Famosas de Louisiana

¿Sabías que estas mujeres famosas son de Louisiana?

Reese Witherspoon:

Born in New Orleans, Witherspoon has been acting professionally since 1991. She has produced and acted in roles in television shows such as "The Morning Show" on Apple TV and HBO's "Big Little Lies." Witherspoon's big break came in 1991's "The Man In The Moon." She won an Academy Award for her role as June Carter Cash in 2005's "Walk The Line."

Britney Spears:

Singer and songwriter from Kentwood, LA. The pop star is originally from Kentwood, where she launched her solo career in the late 1990s by signing with Jive Records when she was only 15 years old. Spears' debut album, "Baby One More Time," swept the United States in 1999, ushering in her pop star era that extended to her residency in Las Vegas. Spears re-emerged from a guardianship controversy to sign a $15 million book deal in 2022.

Anne Rice (1941-2021):

Bestselling author, Anne Rice is known for her gothic novels, particularly "Interview with the Vampire." Although she lived in various places, she was born and raised in New Orleans, and the city frequently served as the setting and inspiration for her work.

Ellen DeGeneres:

The Metairie native is an actress, comedian, and television host of her popular daytime talk show for nearly 20 years. For her work, DeGeneres received 33 Daytime Emmy Awards, and she also took home the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

Dawn Richard:

American singer of Creole and Haitian descent born in New Orleans. She began her career auditioning for MTV's Making the Band 3 in 2004, during which she formed the girl group Danity Kane. She is also a songwriter, dancer, actress, and activist.

Lainey Wilson:

The singer and songwriter grew up in Baskin, LA before taking her talent to Nashville, where she released her first EP in 2019. It included the hit single "Things a Man Oughta Know," which reached number 1 on the American country music charts.

Ha*Ash:

Ha*Ash is an American Latin pop duo from Lake Charles, Louisiana, formed in 2002 by sisters Hanna Nicole and Ashley Grace. The group's name is a portmanteau of letters from their first names. They have released six studio albums, the most recent called Haashtag in 2022.

Addison Rae:

Rae was born in Lafayette and rose to fame with her TikTok in 2019 where she has over 88 million followers. She has been one of the highest-paid influencers and with her fame, she has managed to launch cosmetics, fragrances, podcasts, and more. She has acted in movies and also debuted her career as a singer. She will release an album in 2025.

Article in Spanish / Versión en español >> Yvette Canoura publica nuevo libro

Award-winning Louisiana author Yvette Canoura has released Hasán’s Adventures in Puerto Rico / Las aventuras de Hasán en Puerto Rico, a bilingual children’s book now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and IngramSpark. 

This story follows Hasán, a New Orleans-born boy of Puerto Rican and Syrian heritage, as he explores Puerto Rico’s vibrant culture, traditions, and iconic landmarks by offering young readers an engaging, educational experience.

The book, illustrated by high school students, also includes a QR code for a Read-Along feature, allowing children to listen to the story in English and Spanish—a valuable tool for pronunciation and language development.

More than just a story, 100% of book sales will benefit Rayito de Esperanza, a nonprofit supporting children battling cancer in Puerto Rico.

What inspired you to write this book?

The inspiration for Hasán’s Adventures in Puerto Rico is my son, Hasan, who is now 24 years old. After Hurricane Katrina, my husband Ibrahim—who is from Syria—suggested that I take Hasan to Puerto Rico for the summer to learn the language, heritage, and customs of the island. That trip sparked a deep connection to his Puerto Rican roots, which ultimately inspired this story. This book is also an invitation for readers—especially those who may not speak Spanish—to explore Puerto Rico’s rich culture and landmarks. 

Why is it important to you to highlight a main character with a mixed cultural heritage?

By showcasing a character with diverse backgrounds, the book reflects the reality of so many multicultural families. It encourages young readers to embrace their own identities while appreciating the beauty of different cultures.

How did you come up with the concept of including the read-along feature?

The read-along feature enhances the experience by providing correct pronunciations, making it a more immersive learning tool for both children and adults. It’s also a helpful addition for parents who may not always have time to read with their children, allowing them to follow along while enjoying the vibrant illustrations.

Get ready to be inspired!

VIVA NOLA Magazine is thrilled to announce the launch of our "Latinas Que Inspiran" campaign, a celebration of extraordinary Latinas making a difference in our community and beyond.

Celebrating Achievements, Empowering Futures

Throughout Women's History Month 2025, we'll be shining a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of Latinas in various fields, including business, culture, community service, and more. Through captivating stories and exclusive interviews, we'll showcase their journeys, impact, and unwavering commitment to progress.

Join the Celebration: Nominate a Latina Who Inspires You!

We believe every community has unsung heroes and want to hear from you! Do you know a Latina breaking barriers, leading change, or inspiring others? Nominate her for our "Latinas Que Inspiran" feature and help us amplify her story.

Exclusive Opportunities for Nominees

Selected nominees will receive:

• A complimentary social media spotlight across our channels
• Nomination to the Latinas Inspiring Change category of the upcoming Impacto Awards
• Special advertising packages to promote their businesses or brands

Nominate a Latina who inspires you here!

Stay Tuned for Inspiration

Follow VIVA NOLA Magazine on our social media platforms and subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on the "Latinas Que Inspiran" campaign. Get ready to be inspired by the stories of these incredible women shaping our world!

Together, Let's Celebrate Latina Excellence!

Puentes New Orleans Celebrated its first fundraiser, Ritmos y Raíces, a testament to the unwavering support of our community. More than 150 guests attended, making it a success. The event, held at The Shop at the CAC, was a celebration featuring Colombian food from Waska, a DJ playing a varied set of Latin music, and a dance contest that showcased their collective spirit.

Angela Ramirez, Puentes New Orleans’s Executive Director, addressed the crowd, reminding guests about Puentes’s mission and thanking them for their support:

“Through programs like Escalera, Padres Comprometidos, and L.U.N.A., we remind our youth that they belong, that they have the right to dream big, and that we will be there every step of the way to help them achieve their goals.

But we can’t do this alone.

I’m asking you to invest in our youth—the future of New Orleans. Your donation, no matter the size, will help a high school student graduate, a parent advocate for their child’s education, and a young leader create transformative change in their community.

We need your support to expand our programs, reach more youth, and ensure that every Latine child in New Orleans has the tools and opportunities to succeed”.

To learn more about Puentes or contribute, you can visit puentesneworleans.org.

Home is Here NOLA is a non-profit organization that provides community-based support systems for newly arrived immigrants in the Gulf South. The organization focuses on providing housing, legal aid, and community connections for immigrants who arrive alone. Their services include Community Resettlement Groups, Visitation and Sponsorship Release from Detention, Legal Aid, and Housing.

To support their ongoing efforts, Home is Here NOLA is hosting a Jazz Brunch celebration at Preservation Hall on Sunday, December 8, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. “It feels more important than ever to be celebrating one another and honoring our collective work in solidarity with vibrant immigrant and refugee communities,” said Julie Yael Ward, Co-Director, Home is Here NOLA.

The event will feature live music, an open bar, and delicious brunch bites. Tickets are available online, with early bird pricing available until December 1st. All proceeds from the event will support Home is Here NOLA’s mission of building belonging and alternative support systems for new community members.

You can support this organization year-round by donating at www.homeisherenola.org. 

Versión en español>> Manténgase alerta durante la temporada de huracanes

Although Hurricane Beryl landed in Texas as a Category 1, its effects reached Southwest Louisiana with Tropical Storm force, so much so that Governor Jeff Landry had to sign an emergency declaration for damages attributed to the storm. Damages to residences and businesses, significant power outages, and one death were reported in the state of Louisiana.

With an active hurricane ongoing through November 30th, Louisiana residents must remain vigilant for weather-related events.

We must understand weather terminology. Here are some explanations of terms that are extremely important during hurricanes and storms, especially to those who may be new to living in hurricane-prone areas:

The Cone of Uncertainty: Forecasts for tropical weather systems, like hurricanes or tropical storms, include a cone of uncertainty that shows the probable track of the storm’s center. However, the cone of uncertainty does not show all areas expected to be affected by the storm. The storm could still cause heavy rain, wind, and tornadoes in locations outside of the cone of uncertainty.

Flash Flooding: Even with no high winds, widespread and torrential rains can be slow-moving and stagnate over an area, pouring heavy rain onto an already saturated area.

Hurricanes often cause flooding. Due to intense rainfall, flash flooding can occur, and flooding in rivers and streams may persist for several days after the storm.

People may think they can drive over flooded streets. However, the water can make vehicles float and lose control, and the water’s force can easily overtake vehicles. It is hard to see if the road may have collapsed beneath the water. Even if the water seems shallow enough to cross, it can hide dips or damage to the road surface. Floodwater can also be hazardous for other reasons, such as hiding downed power lines, toxic chemicals, and wild animals. Getting stuck in floodwater can also endanger others, including emergency workers. 

Do not allow children to play in flooded areas. They may drown or be injured in areas that appear to be safe.

Call professionals with the right equipment to help if someone needs rescue. People have been killed and injured trying to rescue others in flooded areas.

Hurricane Watch: A hurricane is possible in your area within 36 hours. Be prepared to evacuate. Monitor local radio and television news outlets for the latest developments or listen to NOAA weather radio.

Hurricane Warning: A hurricane is expected to hit your area. If local authorities advise you to evacuate, leave the area.

Short-term watches and warnings: These alerts provide detailed information on hurricane threats, such as floods and tornadoes.

For more information, visit Entergy’s Storm Center website:  https://www.entergynewsroom.com/storm-center/hurricanes/

The Louisiana Children’s Museum (LCM) invites the community to its 26th annual fundraising gala, Play Soirée, on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at the museum’s scenic 8.5-acre campus in City Park.

Guests can enjoy the gala from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.,  though the celebration starts at 6 p.m. with an awards ceremony, followed by the patron party at 7 p.m., This year’s theme, “Goodnight Moon on the Lagoon,” inspired by the beloved children’s book Goodnight Moon, promises an enchanting evening. The museum will transform into an adult playground, featuring a recreation of the book’s “great green room” as an exclusive interactive exhibit for one night only.

Highlights of the evening include live music by Raw Deal and performances from children’s musical programs, a silent auction with luxury items like fine jewelry by Lee Michaels, tickets to events like Saints and Pelicans games, and gourmet cuisine by Dickie Brennan & Co. Catering & Events.

The event will honor Anne and King Milling, and Tracy and Calvin Mackie with the Great Friend to Kids Award for their contributions to the community.

All proceeds from the Play Soirée will support LCM’s mission to foster learning through play and ensure the museum remains accessible to all children and caregivers in the region.

Join the celebration and support the Louisiana Children’s Museum during an unforgettable night of fun and fundraising! Buy your tickets here.

¿Tus niños van al Kinder?

No te pierdas “Comienzo del Jardín Infantil”, una actividad gratuita en el Museo del Niño este primero de agosto.

Este evento te brinda la oportunidad de prepararte y dejar atrás el estrés que puede generar este cambio en la vida de tus hijos. En este día especial, el museo tendrá actividades para padres y niños con profesores de kinder que estarán disponibles para guiar y responder preguntas.

El museo ofrece actividades variadas para practicar las habilidades necesarias de los niños de la edad del jardín, cómo atar los zapatos, ponerse y abrocharse la chaqueta, guardar sus papeles en un folder, empacar su morral escolar, cortar con tijeras, y pegar, entre otras.

Además de las diferentes estaciones, habrá en el horario tiempo de lectura, escritura y dibujo, y una actividad  interactiva de cuentacuentos para los niños, mientras los padres reciben una charla por parte de maestros de kinder que ofrecerá consejos y un espacio para preguntas y respuestas. La charla será en inglés y en español, para darle la opción a los padres hispanos que se sientan más cómodos hablando en su idioma.

Los niños también podrán practicar como subirse al bus de la escuela y aprenderán sobre seguridad en el bus. Durante el evento, también se llevarán a cabo evaluaciones auditivas y de habla por parte de expertos del sistema escolar.

El kindergarten es una época especial donde los niños aprenden habilidades básicas para la vida. Por eso, jugar en las exhibiciones del museo y participar en las actividades, les permitirá practicar habilidades como tomar turnos, compartir, pensar creativamente, y ser curiosos para aprender más.

El Comienzo del Jardín espera la presencia de familias hispanas, y tendrán personal disponible para comunicarse en español. Esta es una actividad completamente gratis, el 1ro de agosto a las 4:30 PM, pero debes registrarte con anticipación en este link: Comienzo del Jardín Infantil

¡Esperamos verte en el museo!

The main event was a reception at Gallier Hall on Friday, May 10th, at 7:00 p.m. One highlight of the celebration was the presentation of the prestigious Ohtli Award (Reconocimiento Ohtli) to New Orleans-based artist Belinda Flores-Shinshillas. This award, granted by the Institute of Mexicans Living Abroad from the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the lives of Mexican nationals abroad.

As a symbol of enduring friendship, a tree was planted outside City Hall during another Bicentennial Celebration. Consul of Mexico, Tito Livio Morales Burelo, presented the tree to New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell. The plaque before the tree reads, “Marking 200 years of continuing friendship between New Orleans and the people of Mexico. Tree dedicated on May 29th, 2024.”

To honor all Mexicans who have resided in New Orleans, the Consulate of Mexico and the City of New Orleans also unveiled a plaque on St. Ann Street in the French Quarter. This plaque commemorates Mexican President Benito Juarez and his time in New Orleans. It reads, “Benito Juarez, president of Mexico, lived in New Orleans in exile from 1853 to 1855, 1858. This plaque commemorates his transformative time in the city and the enduring friendship between Mexico and New Orleans.”

Officials from the City of New Orleans and the Consulate of Mexico expressed their happiness in celebrating this friendship and their hope that it will continue for many more years.

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See how you can help Louisiana families get ready for the 2024 hurricane season.

1. Create a Family Emergency Plan

- Establish how family members will contact one another and where to meet if separated. 

- Know the local hurricane evacuation routes and have a plan for where you will stay. 

- Remember special accommodations for the elderly, special needs relatives, and pets.

2. Build an Emergency Kit

- Store essentials: Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days), non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, and multi-tool.

- Keep Important Documents Safe: Copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records in a waterproof container.

- Remember your prescription medications, glasses, infant formula, diapers, and hygiene items.

3. Stay Informed

- Use NOAA Weather Radio, local news, or reliable weather apps for real-time updates. 

- Subscribe to receive emergency alert text messages on your phone. 

New Orleans: Text NOLAREADY to 77295, or ESP to 77295 for Spanish alerts. 

Jefferson Parish: Text JPALERT to 888777 or JPNOTICIAS to 888777 for Spanish alerts.

- Follow VIVA NOLA Magazine on Facebook for Updates in Spanish.

4. Prepare Your Home & Check Insurance Coverage

- Secure Windows and doors. 

- Remove loose items, such as outdoor furniture and decorations, that can become projectiles. 

- Know how to turn off gas, electricity, and water if you must evacuate.

- Avoid flooded areas, downed power lines, and damaged buildings.

- Take photos of any damage for insurance claims.

- Monitor local news for information on safe return and recovery efforts.

By following these steps, you and your family can be better prepared to handle the challenges of the 2024 hurricane season in Louisiana. Stay safe and informed!

Para leer este artículo en español, clic >> ¡Qué Regrese Bernardo!

A few years ago, a Bernardo de Gálvez statue went missing from Canal Street’s landscape. 

Donated by the Government of Spain, the Bernardo de Gálvez Monument was erected in 1977 to commemorate the bicentennial year of the independence of the United States to which the Spanish Governor so decisively contributed.

When work began to convert the World Trade Center Building (“WTC”) into a hotel and residences, the Four Seasons Group committed to protecting the statue by removing it during the construction phase and refurbishing it in preparation for its return to its historical site, guarding the river.

The Gálvez statue is particularly significant to members of the local Hispanic community and all lovers of New Orleans’ rich history.

Bernardo de Gálvez, a Spanish military leader and colonial administrator, played a pivotal role in the American Revolutionary War. Serving as the Governor of Louisiana, Gálvez secured vital support for the American colonies, contributing significantly to their fight for independence. Gálvez’s strategic brilliance and unwavering commitment earned him the “Hero of the American Revolution” title.

In 1777, Gálvez, at 30, became the fifth governor of the Louisiana Territory during the Spanish governance period.

His career was propelled by his father, a general in Central America, and his uncle, a royal minister under Carlos III. The young governor promptly endeared himself to the local colony by marrying Marie Felicité de Saint-Maxent d’Estrehan, a Creole beauty.

Because of his outstanding contributions to our region, concerned residents want to bring Bernardo back and raise the funds necessary to re-erect and relocate the Gálvez Monument on an enhanced pedestal, which the new restoration design recommends and the monument deserves.

Help us bring the Gálvez monument back and ensure its significance endures for generations to come. Your support will help us honor our past, celebrate our present, and shape our future.

Here are the ways you can help:

- Talk to your friends about the monument’s significance

- Get involved. Contact the DAMAS Y CABALLEROS DE NUEVA ORLEANS via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

- Donate: 

Bank Account Gulf Coast Bank

Routing: 265070435

Account: 101473445

Online: Venmo: @hamaca

Paypal: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

- Fundraising Events: Stay tuned for upcoming exciting fundraising events! 

Check bringbernardoback.org for updates and information.

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Don Bernardo de Gálvez y Madrid

- Fifth Governor of Spanish Louisiana (1777-1783).

- Drove the British from the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico, keeping vital supply lines open during the American War of Independence. 

- Gave Louisiana its first military glory.

- Allowed to add the “I Alone” (“Yo Solo”) to his Coat of Arms by King Charles III. 

- Positioned New Orleans as the Gateway to the Americas.

- Promoted to Viceroy of New Spain (Mexico and Central America)

- Named one of only eight persons awarded Honorary Citizenship of the United States, joining singular figures such as Winston Churchill and Mother Teresa.