Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Louisiana Honored as 2021 Medium Chamber of the Year

 

VIVA NOLA Staff

Each year, The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) recognizes three chambers of commerce in the small, medium, and large categories for their contributions to the Hispanic business community.

This year’s award for the medium-sized chamber belongs to Louisiana. Mayra Pineda, the President and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana attended the national conference held at Las Vegas, Nevada, and was honored with the award.

 

“The Chamber of the Year Award is definitely a proud moment for our organization, but it is also a reminder and motivation of our commitment moving forward as we focus our mission to build a more equitable community. We will continue to work tirelessly to erase the systemic barriers that are preventing our communities from thriving. Bridging the digital divide, providing access to capital and procurement opportunities, and building a pipeline of skilled workforce are critical to true economic development. These areas have been highlighted through COVID-19 where our Hispanic communities have been disproportionately impacted and, in my community, the added impact of Hurricane Ida.

- Mayra E. Pineda, President & CEO, HCCL

After many unknown obstacles created by the pandemic, HCCL has quickly and efficiently adjusted to a new style of programming. By navigating the complex and uncharted terrain of COVID-19, the HCCL has managed to uninterruptedly serve the Hispanic business community and operate in a new business environment. The advocacy and technical assistance this organization has provided has been invaluable during this difficult time. These efforts have gained the national recognition.

HCCL created a Bilingual Workforce Development Training Program offering the underserved community a safe space to learn and study at their own pace. This program enrolls more than 500 adult learners every year, and since its inception in 2008, the program has placed over 150 learners per year in full time jobs. Throughout the pandemic, this center has acted as a beacon of light providing critically needed assistance, education, and opportunity to the community.

“We are delighted to honor the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Louisiana and its successful efforts to ensure access to education and an equitable recovery for the Hispanic community. Their commitment to providing the small businesses with the tools to thrive, as well as serving underrepresented communities illustrates that in the wake of a cultural reckoning, meaningful change is possible,” said USHCC President and CEO, Ramiro Cavazos.

Congratulations to Mayra E. Pineda and the board of directors of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana for this important recognition!

Ten tips for teachers to start the new school year strong 

By Natalia Layos, Coach for Educators @Natalialayos

1 Look up information about the school area where you will be teaching. Knowing the regulations will provide you with enough information to meet your school’s expectations and the students you will be working with during the year.

2 Have your class ready before your students arrive. Discard or donate materials that you won’t use during the school year, arrange desks and furniture to meet your teaching style, organize materials to make your class look welcoming, fresh, and organized. Remember, you will be spending many hours of your day there, and you want to feel comfortable in your space.

3 Plan. Map out in a calendar the content that you will be teaching during the school year for every subject you teach. A calendar will give you a close idea of what materials you will need for your lessons and provide you with a timeframe for teaching every topic.

4 Have a solid classroom management plan. Think about what routines, rules, and expectations you will implement in every part of the day. Explain all of them to your students and model them very clearly on the very first day. By doing that, your students will know what you expect from them from the very beginning.

5 Be consistent. If you want to gain your students’ respect, you need to be on time, ready for all your lessons, and always keep your word.

6 Be fair and treat all students with respect. Respect is a two-way street, and it all starts with the leader in the classroom: The teacher.

7 Adapt your lessons to the needs of all your students. That includes your foreign language students and the students that require any curricular modifications. They are part of your class and deserve the best education that you can provide.

8 Make it easy for yourself. Design all your lessons following the same model. One that works very well includes a brief review of the previous content, an introduction of new vocabulary, a teaching model ‘I do, we do, you do’ to teach the latest content, and an exit ticket to measure the success of the new learning.

9 Design your lessons to be exciting and fun! Studies show that when students have fun during learning, they retain the information more effectively and much longer.

10 Have fun teaching! Teaching is a fantastic job that can also be fun. Your students can tell when you enjoy what you do, and they don’t hesitate to join that feeling.

Back to School: Tips for Parents for a Successful School Year
By Ana Garcia

Click aqui para español- >Regreso a la escuela: Consejos para padres para un exitoso año escolar
The last school year was full of challenges due to a pandemic that changed our lives unexpectedly. Teachers had to strategize and be creative during this crisis by reinventing their way of teaching through virtual classes. Students spent half of the school year in virtual learning rather than in the classroom with friends. Parents had to change their routines in their professional and personal lives while providing their children with the additional support needed during the unprecedented times.
The 2021-2022 school year has started for most schools in our community. Teachers, students, and parents are excited to go back to how it used to be pre-pandemic.
If you are a parent who is concerned about your children going back to school this year, we have gathered some tips and suggestions from professionals in the educational field that could help alleviate those concerns.
Rebecca Green, a Licensed Professional Counselor with six years of experience and a National Certified Counselor, shares her “biggest tip” for parents and students, which is “to allow yourself some help.” Green explained that in the past two years, “there may have been learning loss, or you may have fallen behind because of virtual learning. Your teachers and counselors will be there to help you”.
With the Delta variant and Covid cases rising in our community, Green wants to remind parents that for people who cannot be vaccinated yet, or those who don’t want to, schools may still offer virtual classes for students who may get quarantined.

Most schools will likely require wearing a mask. Green advises that if the schools mandate wearing a mask, parents should find one that is comfortable for their child to wear and teach them how to wear them, adding that “there is no reason to get your child in trouble for not following school policy just because you disagree with it.”
In dealing with the fear of the virus and its effects, Green would like parents and students to remember “to allow yourself and others grace and forgiveness. We are all stressed and scared, and we all react to these feelings differently”.
The role of a teacher is to inspire, motivate, encourage, and educate. But what is fundamental in this process of teaching is to have effective communication. Cristina Garcia, a 9th-grade teacher entering her second year as an educator, highlights the importance of communication between parents and teachers and between parents and their children.
“As teachers, we reach out to the parents as often as we can. However, having the parents be actively communicative with both parties helps bridge the gap of misinformation and allows for the student and the teacher to grow.”
For a fresh start of a 2021-2022 school year, Garcia has some final suggestions for students, “don’t give up. If something becomes too difficult, keep pushing, and always have good communication with your teachers.”
Our children spend most of their time at school. It is essential parents make sure children have the best experience during the school year. Cathy Morse, a 3rd-grade teacher, wants parents to ask their children questions to explain their thought processes and encourage rich conversation. “It can be about anything. Have them explain what they are doing. Make sure to go deeper than simple questions and answers. It can be as easy as what their favorite video game is, or what their favorite thing to do is, and follow up why to keep the conversation going.”

Videogames have been, for many children, the most form of recreation and socialization during the pandemic. Morse stresses the importance of keeping our children from this specific technology, “Start weaning kids off technology. It is a shock for some students to get back to school after being on tech for hours at a time”. Morse highlights the importance of reading and recalling the skills learned in the previous year to get students’ brains in gear for the next school year. Morse reminds parents to “focus on the positives and celebrate the victories, no matter how small. As educators, we are here to help you!”
Educators are optimistic and are hoping for a better school year. No matter what obstacles and challenges life throw at parents, teachers, and students, our community is resilient, and by supporting each other, we can overcome any adversity and succeed together.

Dead & Company, Stevie Nicks, Foo Fighters, Jimmy Buffett, Lizzo, Demi Lovato,

The Black Crowes, H.E.R., Brandi Carlile, Norah Jones, Tedeschi Trucks Band,

The Beach Boys, Ludacris, Trombone Shorty, Jon Batiste Plus Hundreds More

To Appear at the 2021 New Orleans Jazz Fest October 8 – 17

3-Day Weekend Passes and VIP Packages on Sale Now!

New Orleans, LA (June 24, 2021)—The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell today announced more than 50 of the  artists set to appear at the highly anticipated 2021 Festival, scheduled for October 8 – 17.   The full music lineup will be released next month.  Jazz Fest annually celebrates the unique culture and heritage of New Orleans and Louisiana, alongside unforgettable performances by nationally and internationally renowned guest artists to create one of the world’s most diverse musical festival lineups.  Festival weekend dates are set for October 8 – 10 and 15 – 17.

 

Dead & Company, Stevie Nicks, Foo Fighters, Jimmy Buffett & The Coral Reefer Band, Lizzo, Demi Lovato, The Black Crowes, H.E.R., Brandi Carlile, Norah Jones, Tedeschi Trucks Band, The Beach Boys, Ludacris, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Jon Batiste, Wu-Tang Clan feat. The Soul Rebels, Ziggy Marley: Songs of Bob Marley, Elvis Costello & The Imposters, The Revivalists, Brittany Howard,  Randy Newman, Irma Thomas, Melissa Etheridge, The Isley Brothers, Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Boz Scaggs, Rickie Lee Jones, Ledisi, Tower of Power, David Sanborn, Tank and The Bangas, Big Freedia, Chris Isaak, Keb’ Mo’ Band, Preservation  Hall  Jazz Band,  PJ Morton, Samantha Fish, Tribute to Dr. John, The Count Basie Orchestra, Galactic, Playing for Change Band,  Terence Blanchard feat The E-Collective, Rebirth Brass Band, Shovels & Rope, Cyril Neville, Hurray for the Riff Raff, Asleep at the Wheel, Arturo Sandoval, Davell Crawford, El Gran Combo, Kermit Ruffins & the Barbeque Swingers, Martha Redbone Roots Project, Ricky Skaggs, Doug Kershaw, Boyfriend, Charlie Musselwhite, Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk, The Radiators, Anders Osborne, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Terri Lyne Carrington + Social Science, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, The Soul Rebels, Lil’ Ed & the Blues Imperials, Tab Benoit, Leo Nocentelli, Walter Wolfman Washington & the Roadmasters, Puss N Boots, Deacon John, The Campbell Brothers, George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners, Little Freddie King, Nicholas Payton, Kathy Taylor and Favor, David Shaw, Tribute to Bessie Smith, The Roots of Music Marching Crusaders, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & the Golden Eagles Mardi Gras Indians, Lost Bayou Ramblers, Jermaine Landrum & Abundant Praise Revival Choir, New Orleans Nightcrawlers, Ronnie Lamarque, We are One and Divine Ladies Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs, plus hundreds more artists scheduled to appear at the first-ever Jazz Fest in October. 

VIP packages, general admission 3-day weekend passes and travel packages are on sale now through www.nojazzfest.com. Single-day tickets will go on sale in July.

VIP packages are weekend-specific and are valid for all three days of the weekend purchased.  Jazz Fest offers three distinct VIP opportunities to experience the event in a very special way: the Festival’s popular Big Chief VIP Experience ticket package provides special viewing access at most of the Festival’s stages; the Grand Marshal VIP Pass allows for up-close access at the three major stages; and the Krewe of Jazz Fest VIP Pass entitles patrons to special covered seating at the Acura Stage audience area.

VIP and weekend package ticket holders who rolled their 2020 tickets over to the October Festival will receive an email from the ticketing company with instructions on how to exchange their tickets for the weekend of their choosing.  Single-day ticket holders will be able to make their selections when single-day ticket information is released in the coming weeks.

Jazz Fest is partnering once again with CID Entertainment to provide Travel Packages for guests looking to bundle Festival tickets or VIP passes with local hotel accommodations and roundtrip shuttle service between the Festival and their hotel. For package details please visit the Jazz Fest web site.

Many area hotels offer special Jazz Fest rates.  A complete list of participating hotels is posted at http://www.nojazzfest.com/travel/hotels/, including the Official Host Hotel, the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel.

Jazz Fest is working closely with city and state officials to make sure the event is safe for all attendees and participants. The Festival will be presented in accordance with applicable COVID-19 public health guidelines at the time of the event.

Shell is the Presenting Sponsor of the Festival.  Major Jazz Fest Sponsors are Acura, Miller Lite, and the Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots (A Churchill Downs Company). First Horizon Bank, Peoples Health, Coca-Cola, Monster Energy, AARP, Maui Jim Sunglasses, Sheraton New Orleans Hotel and WWOZ are also Official Jazz Fest Sponsors.

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation, Inc., is the nonprofit organization that owns the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell. The Foundation uses the proceeds from Jazz Fest, and other raised funds, for year-round activities in education, economic development and cultural enrichment. Education programs include the Don “Moose” Jamison Heritage School of Music, the HSM Beginners program, the Tom Dent Congo Square Lecture Series, the Class Got Brass competition for school brass bands, workshops in music production, vocal classes at recreation centers around the city and more. Economic Development initiatives include Community Partnership Grants, the Catapult Fund accelerator program and the Sync Up entertainment industry workshops. Cultural enrichment programs include the Jazz & Heritage Concert Series and the annual Foundation Festivals: the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival, the Congo Square Rhythms Festival/Treme Creole Gumbo Festival, and the Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival. The Foundation also owns radio station WWOZ 90.7-FM, the Jazz & Heritage Archive and the George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center – an education and community facility named for Jazz Fest founder George Wein and his late wife Joyce. During the pandemic, the Foundation created the Jazz & Heritage Music Relief Fund to support Louisiana's music community whose livelihoods had been adversely impacted by COVID-19.  More than 4,000 grants were awarded to musicians, music industry workers and Black Masking/ Mardi Gras Indians.  For more about the Foundation, please visit www.jazzandheritage.org.

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell is a co-production of Festival Productions, Inc.-New Orleans and AEG Presents.

NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL

PRESENTED BY SHELL

October 8 – 10 & October 15 - 17

October 8 - 10

Dead & Company, Foo Fighters, Lizzo, The Black Crowes, Demi Lovato, Brandi Carlile, Wu-Tang Clan featuring  The Soul Rebels, The Revivalists, Ludacris, Ziggy Marley: Songs of Bob Marley, Randy Newman, Tank and The Bangas, Galactic, David Sanborn, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Kermit Ruffins & the Barbeque Swingers, Chris Isaak, Cyril Neville, Hurray for the Riff Raff, Charlie Musselwhite, Arturo Sandoval, Martha Redbone Roots Project, Ricky Skaggs, Doug Kershaw, Boyfriend, El Gran Combo, Lil’ Ed & the Blues Imperials, Tab Benoit, Leo Nocentelli,  Anders Osborne,  Walter Wolfman Washington & the Roadmasters, Little Freddie King, Kathy Taylor and Favor, Tribute to Bessie Smith, Nicholas Payton, Deacon John, Lost Bayou Ramblers, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & the Golden Eagles Mardi Gras Indians, We are One and Divine Ladies Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs, plus hundreds more. 

October 15 - 17

Stevie Nicks, Jimmy Buffett & The Coral Reefer Band, H.E.R., Norah Jones, Tedeschi Trucks Band, The Beach Boys, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Jon Batiste, Elvis Costello & The Imposters, Brittany Howard, Irma Thomas, Melissa Etheridge, The Isley Brothers, Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Boz Scaggs, Rickie Lee Jones, Ledisi, Tower of Power, Big Freedia, Keb’ Mo’ Band, PJ Morton, Playing for Change Band, Samantha Fish, Terence Blanchard feat. The E-Collective, Rebirth Brass Band, Shovels & Rope, Asleep at the Wheel, Terri Lyne Carrington + Social Science, Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk, The Radiators, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners, Davell Crawford, Puss N Boots, The Campbell Brothers, Jermaine Landrum & Abundant Praise Revival Choir, The Roots of Music Marching Crusaders, Tribute to Dr. John, The Count Basie Orchestra, New Orleans Nightcrawlers, Ronnie Lamarque, plus hundreds more.

2021 JAZZ FEST TICKET INFORMATION

General Admission 3-Day Weekend Pass (October 8 – 10 or October 15 – 17)

Early-Bird Weekend Pass: $200 while supplies last

Advance Weekend Pass: $225

Important: The Weekend Pass is a non-transferable wristband and there is no re-entry

Payment Plan: 25% down if purchased by July 8

PLEASE NOTE: All general admission Jazz Fest tickets are subject to additional service fees and handling charges.

Tickets are available at www.nojazzfest.com. 

NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL

PRESENTED BY SHELL

BIG CHIEF VIP EXPERIENCE

The Big Chief VIP Experience is the most luxurious way to enjoy the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.  A limited number of tickets are sold (first-come, first-served).  The Big Chief VIP Experience often sells out - patrons are encouraged to purchase early. Each ticket includes the following:

• Big Chief tickets are sold as full weekend packages and include admission for each day of the weekend
• Re-entry is permitted at pedestrian gates with Big Chief tickets
• Big Chief guests have access to raised and covered private viewing areas at Acura Stage, Shell Gentilly Stage and Congo Square Stage as well as front-of-house bleachers at the WWOZ Jazz Tent and Blues Tent
• Private beverage stands (with beer, wine, water, and soft drinks for purchase) and restrooms at the Acura Stage and Shell Gentilly Stage viewing areas
• Access to an indoor, air conditioned Big Chief Hospitality Lounge with full service cash bar, complimentary light refreshments and snacks and restrooms
• On-site parking is available for purchase with a limited number of Big Chief packages
• Big Chief patrons can choose to purchase VIP shuttle tickets for easy travel to and from the Festival.  The VIP Shuttle will pick up and drop off from downtown New Orleans and allows for special entry into the Fair Grounds.  Quantities are limited, so please purchase VIP shuttle tickets before they sell out.
• Souvenir laminated ticket
• Express VIP entrances at Gentilly and Sauvage pedestrian gates

Big Chief (October 8 – 10 or October 15 – 17)
$1,600

Daily on-site parking or VIP shuttle tickets can be added to your purchase while supplies last.

VIP ticket packages are inclusive of all service charges.  Only a $15 shipping fee will be assessed in addition to the listed prices.

VIP viewing areas will be limited in size, and access may become unavailable, if necessary, to keep the space from exceeding capacity.

A Big Chief ticket is required for all children over the age of 2 to access the Big Chief viewing areas.

The Festival offers a payment plan for all VIP purchases.

Big Chief VIP tickets will be mailed in September.

GRAND MARSHAL VIP PASS

The Grand Marshal VIP pass allows exclusive access to a standing-room only section at the front of the Festival’s three largest stages:  the Acura Stage, the Shell Gentilly Stage and the Congo Square Stage.  A limited number of Grand Marshal tickets are sold (first-come, first-served).  Grand Marshal VIP often sells out - patrons are encouraged to purchase early. Each ticket includes the following:

• Grand Marshal tickets are sold as full weekend packages and include admission for each day of the weekend
• Re-entry is permitted at pedestrian gates with Grand Marshal tickets
• Grand Marshal guests have access to up front, golden circle standing-room only private viewing areas at the Acura, Shell Gentilly and Congo Square stages
• Private restrooms near the Acura Stage viewing area
• Access to the Grand Marshal Hospitality Tent where guests can cool off in the shade with beverages for purchase, complimentary snacks and restrooms
• On-site parking is available for purchase with a limited number of Grand Marshal packages
• Grand Marshal patrons can choose to purchase VIP shuttle tickets for easy travel to and from the Festival.  The VIP Shuttle will pick up and drop off from downtown New Orleans and allows for special entry into the Fair Grounds.  Quantities are limited, so please purchase VIP shuttle tickets before they sell out.
• Souvenir laminated ticket
• Express VIP entrances at Gentilly and Sauvage pedestrian gates

Grand Marshal (October 8 – 10 or 15 – 17)

$1,500

Daily on-site parking or VIP shuttle tickets can be added to your purchase while supplies last.

VIP ticket packages are inclusive of all service charges.  Only a $15 shipping fee will be assessed in addition to the listed prices.

Note:  Grand Marshal VIP ticketholders are part of an exclusive, up-close, standing-room only club of Festivalgoers.  The stage-area pass does not allow the holder to camp out or to reserve space in the special viewing areas, all of which are chair-free zones.  A festive flow of Grand Marshal patrons between performances throughout the day is part of the ethos of this priceless Jazz Fest experience.  In addition, during some music sets, photography may be restricted by the artist on stage. At those times, cameras, other than simple point-and-shoot and cell phone cameras, will have to be put away. On occasion, photography may be prohibited entirely.

A Grand Marshal ticket is required for all children over the age of 2 to access the Grand Marshal viewing areas.

The Festival offers a payment plan for all VIP purchases.

Grand Marshal VIP tickets will be mailed in September.

KREWE OF JAZZ FEST VIP PASS

Jazz Fest attendees have the opportunity to view all the action at the Acura Stage in an exclusive covered viewing area.  A limited number of tickets are sold (first come, first served). Krewe of Jazz Fest VIP often sells out - patrons are encouraged to purchase early. Each ticket includes the following:

• Krewe of Jazz Fest tickets are sold as full weekend packages and include admission for each day of the weekend
• Re-entry is permitted at pedestrian gates with Krewe of Jazz Fest tickets
• Krewe of Jazz Fest guests have access to a raised and covered viewing stand at the Acura Stage
• Private beverage stands (with beer, wine, water and soft drinks for purchase) and restrooms at the viewing area
• On-site parking is available for purchase with a limited number of Krewe of Jazz Fest packages
• Krewe of Jazz Fest patrons can choose to purchase VIP shuttle tickets for easy travel to and from the Festival.  The VIP Shuttle will pick up and drop off from downtown New Orleans and allows for special entry into the Fair Grounds.  Quantities are limited, so please purchase VIP shuttle tickets before they sell out.
• Souvenir laminated ticket
• Express VIP entrances at Gentilly and Sauvage pedestrian gates

 Krewe of Jazz Fest (October 8 – 10 or 15 – 17)

$800

Daily on-site parking or VIP shuttle tickets can be added to your purchase while supplies last.

VIP ticket packages are inclusive of all service charges.  Only a $15 shipping fee will be assessed in addition to the listed prices.

A Krewe of Jazz Fest ticket is required for all children over the age of 2 to access the Krewe of Jazz Fest viewing area.

The Festival offers a payment plan for all VIP purchases.

Krewe of Jazz Fest VIP tickets will be mailed in September.

NOAA Predicts Another Active Atlantic Hurricane Season

BY NOAA

Click aqui para español- >Una Temporada de Huracanes Activa en el Atlántico

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center is predicting another above-normal Atlantic hurricane season. Forecasters predict a 60% chance of an above-normal season, a 30% chance of a near-normal season, and a 10% chance of a below-normal season. However, experts do not anticipate the historic level of storm activity seen in 2020.

For 2021, a likely range of 13 to 20 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3 to 5 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher) are expected. NOAA provides these ranges with 70% confidence. The Atlantic hurricane season extends from June 1 through November 30.

“Now is the time for communities along the coastline as well as inland to get prepared for the dangers that hurricanes can bring,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “The experts at NOAA are poised to deliver life-saving early warnings and forecasts to communities, which will also help minimize the economic impacts of storms.”
“El Nino Southern Oscillation, ENSO-neutral, and La Nina support the conditions associated with the ongoing high-activity era,” said Matthew Rosencrans, a lead seasonal hurricane forecaster at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. “Predicted warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, weaker tropical Atlantic trade winds, and an enhanced west African monsoon will likely be factors in this year’s overall activity.”

Last year’s record-breaking season serves as a reminder to all residents in coastal regions or areas prone to inland flooding from rainfall to be prepared for the 2021 hurricane season.

“With hurricane season starting on June 1, now is the time to get ready and advance disaster resilience in our communities,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Visit Ready.gov and Listo.gov to learn and take the steps to prepare yourself and others in your household.

Download the FEMA app to sign-up for a variety of alerts and to access preparedness information. Purchase flood insurance to protect your greatest asset, your home. And, please encourage your neighbors, friends, and coworkers to also get ready for the upcoming season.”

Visit FEMA’s Ready.gov to be prepared for the start of hurricane season and the National Hurricane Center’s website at hurricanes.gov throughout the season to stay current on watches and warnings.

Summer Family Fun in NOLA

By Ana García

Click aqui para español- >Diversión Familiar de Verano en NOLA

Are you looking for fun activities to do in New Orleans during the summer? VIVA NOLA has a few suggestions which do not require packing and long trips. There are fun, family-friendly places here in the city.
Maybe you are looking for summer camps or just weekends full of excitement with the family. Here is a list of affordable, exciting, yet educational places this summer 2021 in Nola:

Louisiana Children’s Museum.

The Louisiana Children’s Museum in City Park reopens its doors this summer with many exciting and new activities for the entire family. The new LCM offers 8.5 acres of indoor and outdoor adventures to explore. Kids would have the opportunity to “Follow that Food” with the return of this classic exhibit where they can be little shoppers at the grocery store or chefs at the creole kitchen. They can go on a fantastic journey to the mighty Mississippi at the “Move with the River” exhibit. Due to COVID-19 restrictions and to ensure the best possible experience, the museum will require timed-entry tickets. You must reserve in advance. Make sure you check their website at www.lcm.org for more information and for Summer Camp dates.

LCM Summer Hours / Horarios de Admisión:
Tuesdays - Saturdays / Martes a Sábado: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
Sundays / Domings: 11:30 am - 4:30 pm
Location / Ubicación City Park New Orleans. 5 Henry Thomas Drive. New Orleans, LA 70124

Tickets / Boletos: Adults & Children (12 months+) / Adultos y Niños (12 meses +) $ 14.00 + sales tax
Members Free admission / Admisión Gratuita para miembros

2. Cool Zoo at Audubon Zoo

Audubon Zoo reopens its popular water attractions this summer season. Cool Zoo and the Gator Run Lazy River are back beginning on Wednesday, June 16. This exciting adventure for the entire family includes the alligator water slide, the spider monkey soaker, water-spitting snakes, and shady spots for grown-ups. The Gator Run Lazy River offers zoo visitors the option to cool down by floating atop an inner tube along a 750-foot course. Three feet deep and 10-feet-wide, the lazy river features two sand beaches and water cannons to shower visitors as they float by. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience our award-winning zoo. See the animals, and stay cool all summer long!
This year, Audubon will offer two sessions each day for guests to enjoy Cool Zoo while visiting Audubon Zoo to manage capacity limitations, provide room for physical distancing, and comply with CDC guidelines.
For more information and to purchase advance tickets, visit audubonnatureinstitute.org

Audubon Zoo - 2021 Cool Zoo/Gator Run
Location: / Ubicación: 6500 Magazine Street
New Orleans, LA 70118

Tickets / Boletos: Cool Zoo, including Gator Run, is $8 for members, $10 for non-members plus regular zoo admisión.

Eentrada a Cool Zoo, incluyendo el Gator Run es $8 para miembros y $10 para no miembros, más la entrada general al zoológico.

Operating Schedule / Horario de Operación:
Wednesday, June 16, 2021 – Sunday, August 1, 2021, 10 am - 1 pm & 2 pm - 5 pm
Miércoles, Junio16, 2021 – domingo, agosto 1, 2021
10 AM – 1 PM & 2 PM – 5 PM

Saturday, August 7, 2021 – Sunday, September 5, 2021 10 am - 1 pm & 2 pm - 5 pm
Sábado, agosto 7, 2021 – domingo, septiembre 5, 2021

Monday, September 6, 2021 - Labor Day (final day) 10 am - 1 pm & 2 pm - 5 pm
Lunes, septiembre 6, 2021 Día del Trabajo (último día)
10 AM – 1 PM & 2 PM – 5 PM

3. The National WWII Museum.
Get your party hats ready! The National WWII Museum is celebrating its 21st anniversary on June 6. Considered the #1 attraction in New Orleans, this state-of-the-art museum offers various virtual summer camp opportunities for kids. Solve puzzles and problems in real WWII scenarios with Spy Camp. For children entering grades 3 - 6 from June 21 - 25, 2021. Children will engage hands-on with topics such as aeronautics, engineering, physics, biology, and medicine during the STEM Innovation Camp. For children entering grades 4 - 7. Dates, from June 28 - July 2, 2021. The Bob and Dolores Hope Summer Theater Camp is for the singer, dancer, and actor/actress in your life. Casting based on interest and prior experience. For children entering grades 5 - 8. Dates, week 1: July 12 - 16, 2021 and
week 2: July 19–23, 2021. For more information, visit .nationalww2museum.org.
In addition, the museum will host an after-hours Family Block Party on October 22, 2021. Families will enjoy the museum and fun activities for the whole family.
To ensure public safety and avoid crowds, timed-ticket purchases are required. The museum recommends that visitors pre-purchase Museum admission online.

The National WWII Museum Hours / Horarios: Open daily / Diario:
9 am - 5 pm
Location: 945 Magazine Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
Tickets / Boletos: Adult / Adultos: $28.50
Senior (65+) / Mayores de 65: $24.50
Student, Military (With ID) / Estudiantes y militares con identificación: $18
WWII Veterans FREE / Veteranos de guerra GRATIS.

There’s no doubt that our city has more to offer during the summer. You cannot go wrong with these three choices. Check each website before you plan your local trip to any of these fantastic places.

Make a Card for Mother’s Day.

By Juliana Bech

Mother’s Day is coming close, and you are just starting to think about what you’re going to make for your mom. You might be thinking about making a little card saying how much she means to you, which I bet she would love, but why not make some bright pop-up letters? It might seem complicated to make at first, but it is relatively easy.  

The materials you need are scissors, glue, cardstock, colored construction paper, and markers. 

First, fold both the cardstock and construction paper in half. Next, cut short and long slits in the crease of the construction paper. Then, glue the construction paper to the cardstock (make sure to glue down every other slit).

In addition to that, cut out letters and hearts on colored construction paper and glue them on the pop-out lines and around the card. Finally, deliver the unique message that you have created to your mom on Mother’s Day!

 

Vacuna para el COVID-19

El Apostolado Hispano en asociación con DePaul Community Health Centers Vaccine Disponible el martes 16 de marzo de 2021

Elegibilidad: DIRECTRIZ DE CDC

Ubicación: Apostolado Hispano

Dirección: 2525 Maine Ave. Metairie, LA 70003

Hora: 2:30 pm -5:30pm

Para registrarse llame al 504-467-2550

También están proporcionando pruebas de Covid-19

Todos los sábados de marzo desde

De 9 am - 3 pm

No se requiere identificación ni seguro

 

Preparación de impuestos gratis

El Centro LA y Vita Latinx prepararán impuestos gratis para familias que generen hasta $ 57,000 por año

Ubicación: Apostolado Hispano

Dirección: 2525 Maine Ave, Metairie, LA 70003 (lado sur de la iglesia Saint Lawrence the Martyr)

Fechas: 20, 27 y 10 de abril

Hora: de 9am - 3pm

Inscripciones: www.elcentrola.org o llamar al 504-515-1972, 504-503-1040

Noche Dominicana y lanzamiento de video

El artista dominicano radicado en Nueva Orleans Fermin Ceballos lanzará el video de su nuevo sencillo PA 'QUE TE ENAMORES el 20 de
marzo durante una fiesta dominicana con su banda en vivo en Dance Quarter Studios, siguiendo las pautas COVID-19 de la ciudad.

1. Hasta el momento, se ha vacunado al 14-15% de la población de Louisiana, y una de las metas del estado ha sido utilizar la vacuna de la forma más rápida y equitativa posible. La alcaldía de Nueva Orleans, NOLA Ready y el Departamento de Salud de Nueva Orleans invitan a la comunidad Latina a aprender sobre las vacunas de Covid-19, su distribución, y a disipar cualquier duda participando en la Mesa Redonda de Vacunación COVID-19 donde podrán hacer preguntas a las doctoras Jennifer Avegno y Julia García y al Dr. Eugenio Labadie. Este evento proporcionará interpretación al español. Puede asistir por medio del enlace de Zoom, o viendo la transmisión en nuestra página de Facebook este jueves 4 de marzo a las 6 p.m.

2. Las escuelas de la parroquia de Jefferson en asociación con la Cámara de Comercio Hispana y United Way Southeast Louisiana se reunieron para discutir la importancia de la alfabetización informática para la participación familiar y el éxito estudiantil.

La Cámara de Comercio Hispana ha estado trabajando junto con las Escuelas de la Parroquia de Jefferson para brindar talleres de alfabetización informática a los padres.

La semana pasada, presentaron a cuatro familias seleccionadas al azar que participaron en la última ronda de Talleres de habilidades informáticas con computadoras portátiles donadas por Cox Communications.

United Way también se ha sumado a esta iniciativa para ayudar a expandir los talleres de informática. Las tres organizaciones han anunciado una tercera ronda de talleres de habilidades informáticas para padres. Estas sesiones de formación gratuitas se ofrecen tanto en inglés como en español. Para registrarse, puede llamar al 504-349-7776 o visitar jpschools.org/computerworkshops. La capacidad es limitada.

 

3. CRC Global, una empresa local de cadena de suministro, ha estado ayudando a nuestra comunidad a través de donaciones de mercados semanalmente.

También han liderado los esfuerzos de socorro por huracanes para ayudar a aquellos en América Central afectados por los huracanes Iota y ETA a través de su fundación CRC, We Care WE Share.

Photo credit CRC

Hasta ahora, el personal de CRC ha enviado 8 contenedores a Honduras con suministros y alimentos para muchas de las víctimas de los devastadores huracanes que aún están desplazados. Los líderes de la organización visitaron Honduras hace unos días para trabajar con la comunidad y ver el impacto de esta ayuda.

Ellos han creado un compromiso a largo plazo para ayudar a la organización Operación Amor que alimenta a los niños una vez al día y está brindando recursos escolares para los niños que no tienen acceso a la tecnología para el aprendizaje virtual.

CRC continúa recolectando artículos y donaciones para el alivio del huracán y para completar un total de 20 contenedores, por lo que esperan el apoyo de la comunidad. Para mas informacion y donaciones visite crcwecareweshare.org

 

ASISTENCIA PARA EL ALQUILER PARA LA PARROQUIA DE ORLEANS

PERIODO DE SOLICITUD ABIERTO A PARTIR DEL 15 DE FEBRERO DE 2021

 

El programa de Asistencia de Emergencia para el Alquiler del Tesoro de los Estados Unidos puso a disposición $25,000 millones para ayudar a los hogares que no pueden pagar el alquiler y los servicios públicos a causa de la pandemia del COVID-19.  La ciudad de Nueva Orleans recibió $11.6 millones de parte del Tesoro y prevé recibir aproximadamente $14 millones de parte del Estado para asistencia al alquiler en la Parroquia de Orleans.

INFORMACIÓN DEL PROGRAMA

Elegibilidad

Un “hogar elegible” se define como un hogar de inquilinos en el que al menos uno o más individuos cumplen los siguientes criterios:

• Tiene derecho a percibir el desempleo o ha sufrido una reducción de los ingresos del hogar, ha incurrido en gastos importantes o ha experimentado una dificultad financiera debido al COVID-19;
• Demuestra un riesgo de quedarse sin hogar o de sufrir inestabilidad en la vivienda; y
• Tiene una renta familiar igual o inferior al 80% del promedio de la zona.

La ayuda para el alquiler proporcionada a un hogar que reúna los requisitos no debe duplicar ninguna otra ayuda para el alquiler financiada con fondos federales que se haya proporcionado a dicho hogar.

A partir del 15 de febrero de 2021, el Programa de Emergencia de Asistencia para el Alquiler de Nueva Orleans (NOERAP) comenzará a aceptar solicitudes para los siguientes hogares:

• Hogares con una renta igual o inferior al 60% de los ingresos promedios de la zona (AMI), que es de aproximadamente $42,000 para una familia de cuatro miembros;
• Hogares que han experimentado una reducción de los ingresos del hogar, han incurrido en gastos significativos o han experimentado una dificultad financiera debido al COVID-19; y
• Hogares que corren el riesgo de quedarse sin hogar o de sufrir inestabilidad en la vivienda.

Se exigirá la documentación de apoyo y/o la autocertificación antes de la emisión de los pagos.

Asistencia disponible

Los hogares elegibles pueden recibir hasta 12 meses de ayuda para el alquiler. Los pagos se harán directamente a los arrendadores y tendrán un límite máximo del Alquiler de Mercado Justos (FMR), sin incluir las tarifas ni los costos judiciales. El FMR establecido por el HUD para Nueva Orleans se indica a continuación. En circunstancias limitadas, los pagos se harán directamente a los inquilinos. Se puede permitir que los pagos superen el FMR hasta la excepción del 110% del FMR de la Autoridad de Vivienda de Nueva Orleans (HANO) para ciertos códigos postales o en el caso de ajustes razonables por discapacidad.

ALQUILERES DE MERCADO JUSTO (FMR)

Eficiencia Un dormitorio Dos dormitorios Tres dormitorios Cuatro dormitorios

$779                             $908                            $1,078                          $1,396                              $1,597

 

Proceso de solicitud

Se puede presentar una solicitud de ayuda para el alquiler a través del sitio web de Ready NOLA en  https://ready.nola.gov, mediante una solicitud entregada en mano o por correo. La información de contacto específica aparece en las solicitudes. Hay una solicitud para inquilinos y otra para arrendadores.

Solicitud para propietarios: http://ready.nola.gov/solicitud-propietario/

Solicitud para inquilinos:  http://ready.nola.gov/solicitud-inquilino/

 

Shop Local

 

Cristy Cali

All charms are under fifty, plus 40% off with the code BFCM-2020 on cristycali.com or at the Cristy Cali store located at 3110 Magazine Street, New Orleans.

Here are Cristy’s three picks for great gifts:

1. The Fleur de Crescent features the fleur de lis and stars as a reminder to look at the stars and feel a sense of home wherever you may be.
2. The Crescent City features St. Louis Cathedral, and it is a perfect gift for anyone who knows what it means to miss New Orleans.
3. The Strength and Courage Fleur deLis was intentionally named by the designer to remind the wearer to seek these qualities within themselves during difficult and challenging times.

 

 

Caliche & Pao Art

Bring vibrant colors to your home with exclusive fine art by artists Caliche and Pao. French Quarter inspired art with a Latin vibe. The ideal conversation piece.

312 Royal Street, New Orleans

Calicheandpao.com

 

Passport Polish

Miss traveling? Visit many different countries via Passport Polish. Pick your favorite shade or press-on nails, and see why this local make-up line keeps expanding.

IG@thepassportpolish

 

DF Jewelry

These unique handmade accessories can make any outfit stand out. Find your perfect style and make a statement at your socially-distanced or virtual Christmas Party. IG@dfjewelrynola

 

MIA Boutique

You can always find the perfect outfit and accessories at MIA Boutique. A gift card can be the ideal stocking stuffer.

Great American Smokeout, o el Gran Día Americano Sin Humo.

The Great American Smokeout (GASO), o el Gran Día sin Humo, fue creado en 1976 por la Sociedad Americana de Cáncer y se lleva a cada año en el tercer jueves de noviembre con la idea de que las personas no tienen que dejar de fumar en un día, sino simplemente empezar con el día uno. El evento fue diseñado para reflexionar sobre lo que todos sabemos sobre la adicción al tabaco: que dejar de fumar no es fácil; se necesita tiempo y se necesita un plan.

Según estudios recientes, más del 20% de los adultos en Louisiana fuman, en comparación con el 17,1% a nivel nacional. La dependencia de la nicotina, que es tanto física como mental, es actualmente la forma más común de dependencia química en los Estados Unidos.

 

El tabaquismo también es la principal causa de muerte evitable en nuestro país, matando a más de 480,000 estadounidenses, incluidos 7,200 habitantes de Louisiana anualmente. También resulta en más de 41,000 muertes por exposición al humo de segunda mano, ya que fumar no solo mata, sino que también puede conducir a problemas de salud a largo plazo.

Si bien dejar de fumar es difícil, existen beneficios inmediatos para las personas de todas las edades que dejan de fumar, incluido el regreso a la normalidad de la frecuencia cardíaca y la presión arterial, mejor circulación, mejor función pulmonar y mejor olfato y gusto. Los beneficios a largo plazo para los no fumadores incluyen reducir en un 60% la posibilidad de morir prematuramente por enfermedades relacionadas con el tabaquismo, un menor riesgo de accidente cerebrovascular y una mejora en la apariencia física general. Y, considerando la pandemia actual, dejar de fumar debería ser una prioridad para todos los fumadores de cigarrillo tradicional o electrónico, cuyos pulmones ya pueden estar comprometidos, lo que los hace particularmente susceptibles a los impactos del COVID-19.

Para obtener más información, visite Great American Smokeout. Para solicitar productos y servicios gratuitos para dejar de fumar del Smoking Cessation Trust, y ver si los fumadores son elegibles, visite www.smokefreela.org; llame localmente al 504-529-5665 o gratis al 855-259-6346.