Arts
Ongoing-May: Arts & Healthcare, Inc. Exhibit. The CHRISTUS Cabrini Gallery (Cabrini Outpatient Center, 1st floor across from Radiology) will feature the photographs of Jeff Stephens. All art is for sale. Cost: Free. Call: 318-769-7602. www.artsandhealthcare.org
Ongoing-May 26: 4th Annual Dirty South Cup Call & Competition, River Oaks Arts Center. Guest Juror will be Artist – Sam Chung. Artists from all over the United States will participate in this event, submitting their best cup, mug, or Yunomi for Judging. Call: 318-473-2670.
Ongoing-June 23: Witness to Wartime: Takuichi Fujii Exhibition, Alexandria Museum of Art. Witness to Wartime: Takuichi Fujii introduces an artist whose work opens a window to historical events, issues, and ideas far greater than the individual. Takuichi Fujii (1891-1964) bore witness to his life in America and, most especially, to his experience during World War II. Fujii left a remarkably comprehensive visual record of this important time in American history and offers a unique perspective on his generation. This stunning body of work sheds light on events that most Americans did not experience, but whose lessons remain salient today. Call: 318-443-3458. www.themuseum.org
Music
May 11: A-Town Evenings Presents Smithfield Fair, Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center lobby, 7:00pm. The “uncommon music” of Smithfield Fair is once again presented by the Arts Council of Central Louisiana as part of the A-Town Evenings series. By special arrangement with the Arts Council, the purchaser of each ticket will receive a special, complimentary Smithfield Fair CD packet, available for pick-up upon arrival at the concert. Cost: $15.00. www.louisiana-arts.org
May 18-20: Sugarmill Music Festival, The Historic Rosalie Sugarmill. Exquisite chamber music has moved from the concert hall into a beautiful pastoral setting, with eight full-length concerts over three days. The Sugarmill Music Festival is small, intimate and unlike anything else in our region. New this year, visual artists will paint onsite and display their works. Cordon Bleu trained Chef Jay Kohler will prepare gourmet meals on site. Drs. Annelle and Martin Tanner will create a beautiful Meditation Labyrinth on the meadow, while historian Sarah Norman Mason provides insight into the Sugarmill and its history. Call Tom Harmeyer: 318-443-0949.
May 19: Hineston Gospel Fest, Hineston Rodeo Arena, 12:00pm-6:00pm. The event will feature Gospel singing with food, drinks, pony rides for children, hourly door prizes and an auction of donated items as a community fundraiser. Call: 318-715-9899.
Theatre
May 3-6: Disney’s High School Musical, Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center. Lagniappe Theatre Company Presents your favorite characters from the hit Disney movie live on stage. All the songs you’ve come love and many more. See Troy, Gabriella, Chad, Taylor, Ryan, and Sharpay as they try to get into the school musical without disrupting the status quo of their respective cliques. Call: 318-487-8243.
May 8: Open Auditions, Rapides Foundation Building, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Louisiana Broadway Magic will hold preliminary auditions for its production of The Pirates of Penzance, Jr. Louisiana Broadway Magic is a national award-winning theatre group of actors ages 8 to 18 that will represent Cenla at the national Junior Theatre Festival in Atlanta next January. www.LBMproductions.net
May 17-20: Spectral Sisters Ten-Minute Play Festival, Hearn Stage at the Kress Theatre. Come enjoy 9 world premier Ten-Minute Plays from local and regional writers. Celebrate the creative spirit of Cenla. Evening performances will be held Thursday through Saturday at 7:30pm; Sunday matinee will begin at 2:30pm. Adult language and themes will be explored; parental discretion is advised. Cost: $12.00 adults; $10.00 students/seniors.
June 4-8, 11-15: Center Stage Star-to-Be Camp, Alexandria Mall, 9:00am-12:00pm. Have fun while exploring Musical Theatre. Learn proper singing techniques, explore acting and theatre games, learn basic musical theatre dance moves, all while putting together a musical revue for the final day of camp! Open to students ages 5-10. Pre-registration is required. Cost: $150.00 single week; $275 two weeks. www.LBMproductions.net
June 4-24: Musical Theatre Intensive Workshop, Alexandria Mall. Students will improve their singing, acting and dancing skills while rehearsing and performing Pirates of Penzance, Jr., the hilarious farce by Gilbert and Sullivan that features swashbuckling pirates, pretty young maids, bumbling policemen and an eccentric Major-General. Also, members of the cast will be chosen to represent Cenla at the national Junior Theatre Festival! Cost: $355.00; $400 after May 10th. www.LBMproductions.net
Events
Ongoing-May: New Hope Al-Anon Group, Horseshoe Drive Methodist Church in Alexandria, 7:00pm. The New Hope Al-Anon Group meets each Tuesday and Thursday evening. Al-Anon is a mutual support group for anyone having experienced a problem with someone else’s drinking or addiction. You are free to ask questions or to talk about your situation or just listen. Every meeting is different. Each meeting has the autonomy to be run as its members choose, within guidelines designed to promote Al-Anon unity. Cost: Free.
Ongoing-May: balance Meetings, 5:30pm. balance – A group of people working on individual goals with emphasis on substance and alcohol abuse prevention meets each Monday and Thursday. Meetings take place each Monday at the CLASS Office, located at 1785 Jackson Street in Alexandria. Thursday meetings are held at the King Branch library, 1115 Broadway Avenue. Call: 318-442-1010.
May 3-5: AlexRiverFete, Downtown Alexandria. The City of Alexandria, in partnership with dozens of local arts organizations and programs, combines the success of existing cultural events, bringing them “all under one roof” for three days in Downtown Alexandria. Together with numerous local businesses, community participants, teams, civic leaders and sponsors, the AlexRiverFête celebration embodies the spirit of community, culture and collaboration, featuring live music, food, drinks, entertainment, arts & crafts, the Louisiana Dragon Boat races, fireworks and much more! Cost: Free. Call: 318-449-5225.
May 4: May the Fourth Be With You, King Branch Library, 9:00am-6:00pm. May 4, 1979 was the release of the George Lucas film Star Wars. Now we celebrate the day with Star Wars themed bookmarks to color. Come and get in on the adventure and may the Force guide you to the library to check out a galaxy of books, movies, and music CDs! Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-3912. www.rpl.org
May 4: Lifesize Battleship Game, Libuse Branch Library, 4:00pm-5:00pm. We’re creating a “bigger-than-life” Battleship strategy board game. Cost: Free. Call: 318-443-7259. www.rpl.org
May 5 & June 2: First Saturday Breakfast, Pineville Airport at Lake Buhlow, 7:00am-10:00am. Breakfast is cooked up every month as a nonprofit event by the Experimental Aircraft Association for pilots flying-in, and everyone interested in aviation. A spread of hearty vittles—all you want to eat and drink—will give you energy to kick off the day’s events. Consider a trip to enjoy the venue of aircraft clubhouse, deck and lake along with airplane chatter and visiting. Cost: $6.00 donation.
May 5: Breastfeeding Class, RRMC Medical Terrace Gallery Room, 9:00am-3:00pm. Intended for women wanting to breastfeed their infants, this one-day class is taught by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and focuses on advantages, preparation and troubleshooting techniques. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for your baby. Research shows that learning about breastfeeding prenatally enhances your breastfeeding experience. The support partner/father is welcome to attend. Lunch is included. Please pre-register. Call: 318-769-4440.
May 5: Vintage Theatre Presents The Parent Trap (1962), Westside Regional Library, 1:00pm-3:30pm. Two identical twin sisters, separated at birth by their parents’ divorce, are reunited years later at a summer camp, where they scheme to bring their parents back together. The girls, one of whom has been living with their mother and the other with their father, switch places after camp and go to work on their plan, the first objective being to scare off a gold-digger pursuing their father. Refreshments served. Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-2483. www.rpl.org
May 5: Celebrating Cinco de Mayo with Coco (PG), King Branch Library, 2:00pm-4:00pm. Despite his family’s generations-old ban on music, young Miguel dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol Ernesto de la Cruz. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead. After meeting a charming trickster named Héctor, the two new friends embark on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-3912. www.rpl.org
May 6: Les Schtroumpfs (The Smurfs), Fox Theatre 111 S. Washington Street in Marksville, 2:00pm. The Fox French Film Series Presents Les Schtroumpfs (The Smurfs). Admission donation includes popcorn, drink and a blue treat! Cost: $10.00. Call: 318-253-8105. marksvillefox.com
May 7: For the Love of Food, Rapides Main Library, 5:30pm-7:30pm. We’re in Glankler Kitchen cooking up something special! Retired Home Economics teacher and independent author, Dianne Lundy will demonstrate Chicken Parmesan Lundy-style. This is one of her signature dishes for the busy family. Pre-registration is required. This event is sponsored by Healthy Blue. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-2411 x1036. www.rpl.org
May 7 & June 2: Bereaved Parents Support Group, Cabrini Mediplex Serenity Room, 6:00pm-7:00pm. This is an on-going support group for parents and grandparents whose child has died. Bereaved Parents Support Group has trained outreach volunteers who are available to the newly grieving parent or grandparent. This group is sponsored by CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital and meets on the first Monday of every month. Pre-registration is required. Check out our Face Book page: CHRISTUS Bereaved Parents of Cenla. Call Becky Watkins: 318-448-6938.
May 8: In the Laboratory with David Sproles, Rapides Main Library, 4:00pm-5:30pm. Mother’s Day is just around the corner and we’re in the lab creating a fun light-up card that will sure to put a smile on mom’s face. Safety is stressed and parents must sign a release. Pre-Registration is required and space is limited. Sponsored with a grant from Cleco. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-2411 x1036. www.rpl.org
May 9: Diabetes Group Class, RRMC Medical Terrace Auditorium, 9:00am-12:00pm. This program is designed for adults with newly diagnosed diabetes and for people needing a refresher course in diabetes management. This is a basic diabetes program; therefore, no physician referral is required. The program content follows the American Diabetes Association guidelines and uses a variety of teaching methods to enhance learning. Topics include meal planning, monitoring blood sugar, medications, complications, and learning to deal with a chronic disease. The course is taught by Sandy Couvillon, Registered Dietitian, and Amie Starks, Registered Nurse. Space is limited. Please pre-register. Cost: Free. Call: 318-769-4440.
May 9: Child Safety Seat Check, RRMC Medical Terrace driveway, 2:00pm-5:00pm. A trained child passenger safety educator will take a look at your car seats, make sure they are not under recall, make sure the seat is installed properly and show you how to correctly install the car seat. The car seat check process takes between 15-25 minutes, depending on how many car seats are in the vehicle. Cost: Free.
May 10: Children’s Craft Project—Paper Plate Dreamcatchers, Johnson Branch Library, 3:30pm-48300pm. Native Americans tell that a dreamcatcher snares the bad dreams in its confusing weavings and allows the good dreams to pass freely through the openings to the sleeping person. We’ll weave our own dreamcatchers for a good night’s sleep. Cost: Free. Call: 318-776-5153. www.rpl.org
May 10: Crayons, Take Me Away, Rapides Main Library, 4:00pm-6:00pm. We’re having an adults social gathering where we’ll do some coloring, listen to some music and unwind after a long day or join us for the fun of it. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-2411 x1036. www.rpl.org
May 10: Mother’s Day Trivet Teen’s Craft Project, Robertson Branch Library, 5:00pm-6:30pm. With upcycled CDs and multi-colored jewel craft stones, we create a spectacular trivet for your mother, favorite aunt, or grandmother. All supplies are provided and registration is encouraged. Cost: Free. Call: 318-640-3098. www.rpl.org
May 11: Mother’s Day Card Craft, King Branch Library, 4:00pm-5:00pm. We create a lovely Mother’s Day card for that special women in your life. Mother, Aunt, or Grandmother. Let her know how much you appreciate and love her for all that she does for you each and every day! Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-3912. www.rpl.org
May 12: Pineville Spring Fling Benefit, Trotter Plaza 1640 Military Highway in Pineville, 10:00am-5:00pm. The Trotter Center Merchants are hosting a benefit for Main Street Mission featuring entertainment, food trucks, and give-a-ways. Guests are asked to bring a donation to benefit Main Street Mission. Donation suggestions include: toiletries, clothing for all ages, diapers, formula, and canned food.
May 12: Reading On The Red, Downtown Alexandria Mini Park, 10:30am-12:30pm. Join us for the 5th Annual Reading on the Red event sponsored by Luneau & Beck. Come enjoy fun activities, train rides, music with Q93, stories and free books at this event hosted by United Way of Central Louisiana, Rapides Early Childhood Network and the City of Alexandria. Cost: Free. www.uwcl.org
May 12: Main Movie Mania Presents Wonder Woman (PG-13), Rapides Main Library, 1:00pm-3:00pm. Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained to be an unconquerable warrior. Raised on a sheltered island paradise, Diana meets an American pilot who tells her about the massive conflict that’s raging in the outside world. Convinced that she can stop the threat, Diana leaves her home for the first time. Fighting alongside men in a war to end all wars, she finally discovers her full powers and true destiny. Refreshments served. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-2411 x1036. www.rpl.org
May 13: Open Masjid Day, Islamic Society of Central Louisiana 398 Winderemere Blvd in Alexandria. The Islamic Society of Central Louisiana would like to cordially invite all Cenla residents to come meet your Muslim neighbors. The day will feature discussions, exhibits, BBQ lunch, refreshments, prayers, free clinic, children’s activities and much more. Cost: Free.
May 14: Good Mourning Widowed Support Group, Cabrini Mediplex Serenity Room, 11:00am-12:00pm. This is an ongoing support group for men and women whose spouse has died. There will be group sharing time and this group has trained outreach volunteers who are available to those who are newly grieving. The Mourning Widowed Support Group meets on the second Monday of each month and is sponsored by CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital. Check our Face Book page: CHRISTUS Widowed and Widowers. Call Becky Watkins: 318-448-6938.
May 14: Finding Your Zen, Westside Regional Library, 6:00pm-7:00pm. Westside’s own Jared Clark leads us through the ancient methods of meditation. Learn deep breathing techniques and proper posture to encourage the positive flow of energy. Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-2483. www.rpl.org
May 14: DIY Pinecone Bird Feeders with Sabrina, Libuse Branch Library, 6:30pm-8:00pm. Springtime welcomes all our feathered friends back to our yards and gardens. Give them extra energy as they begin building nests and raising their families with peanut butter and high energy birdseed pinecone feeders. All materials provided. Registration is strongly encouraged to make sure supplies are available for everyone. Cost: Free. Call: 318-443-7259. www.rpl.org
May 15: Understanding the Cloud, Hineston Branch Library, 10:00am-11:00am. Learn what the cloud is, how it works and how you can put it to proper and safe use. Cost: Free. Call: 318-793-8461. www.rpl.org
May 15: Coffee Filter Flowers Master Craft, Rapides Main Library, 12:00pm-2:00pm. We take the ordinary coffee filter and turn it into lovely delicately colored flowers. Use these to decorate a Springtime wreath, or to make an impressive floral arrangement for all to admire. Registration is required, space is limited. This event is sponsored by Healthy Blue. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-2411 x1036. www.rpl.org
May 15: Summer Swim Noodle Wreath Adult Craft Project, Martin Branch Library, 2:30pm-4:00pm. With a colorful swim noodle and bright colored fabric, we’ll create a summer wreath for our door or window. All supplies are provided and registration is required. Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-7575. www.rpl.org
May 15: Craft Stick Box Children’s Craft Project, Robertson Branch Library, 5:00pm-6:00pm. With craft sticks and glue, we create a trinket box to gift your mom or to give to someone special! All supplies are provided and registration is encouraged. Cost: Free. Call: 318-640-3098. www.rpl.org
May 15: Paper Flower Topiary Adult Craft Project, Robertson Branch Library, 5:00pm-7:00pm. We’re creating realistic paper tissue flower topiary just in time for Mother’s Day or to celebrate the coming of fun summertime activities. All supplies will be provided, and registration is encouraged. Cost: Free. Call: 318-640-3098. www.rpl.org
May 16: 4th Annual Cenla Career Fair, Alexandria Riverfront Center, 9:00am-2:00pm. Central Louisiana Society for Human Resource Management (CLSHRM) is hosting an area-wide job fair in cooperation with Fr. Polk Soldiers for Life/TAP. The first hour will be reserved specifically for military personnel and their families. The fair will then be open to the general public. Call: 318-484-7166.
May 16: Cenla Women’s Connection, Conference Center at the Greens, 12:00pm. Suzi Vermillion will present “Looking For Peace In All The Wrong Places”. Invite your friends and join us for a delicious lunch and an inspirational message. Please RSVP by Friday, May 11th. Call: 318-481-7880.
May 17: As Young As You Feel Day, Rapides Main Library, 10:00am-12:30pm. Participants age 50 and up will have a wonderful time playing games of the past and present. Do not miss out on the fun! A light lunch will be provided. Pre-registration is required. This event is sponsored by Healthy Blue. Registration is required, space is limited. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-2411 x1036. www.rpl.org
May 17: Parkinson’s Support Group, Cabrini Mediplex Serenity Room, 11:00am-12:30pm. This group meets monthly and is open to anyone who has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s and their family/caregiver. We offer educational handouts and programs plus a chance to share with others. Lunch is provided. Call Becky Watkins: 318-448-6938.
May 17: The Author Talks—Ashley Weaver, Westside Regional Library, 5:30pm-7:00pm. We welcome local mystery writer, Ashley Weaver! Weaver is the Technical Services Coordinator at the Allen Parish Libraries in Oberlin. She has worked in libraries since she was 14; she was a page and then a clerk before obtaining her MLIS from Louisiana State University. Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-2483. www.rpl.org
May 19: Gardening Q&A, Rapides Main Library, 9:00am-10:30pm. The Good Food Project off-site at the Food Bank of Central Louisiana located at 3223 Baldwin Avenue in Alexandria. We’ll see first-hand what the Good Food Project is all about. Registration is required. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-2411 x1036. www.rpl.org
May 19: Prepared Childbirth Class, RRMC Medical Terrace Gallery Room, 9:00am-2:30pm. This one-day class, taught by a certified childbirth instructor, prepares couples for the actual delivery. Topics include stages of labor and delivery, when to go to the hospital, pain management, assisted delivery, Cesarean birth as well as a tour of Rapides Women’s and Children’s Hospital. A light lunch will be provided. Please pre-register. Call: 318-769-4440.
May 19: Squishy Stress Ball Teen Craft Project, Martin Branch Library, 2:00pm-4:00pm. With school finals coming up we’ll need a little stress relief while we study. With a few common household products and a few balloons, we create a squishy stress ball that will be more fun than a fidget spinner! Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-7575. www.rpl.org
May 19: Men Who Cook And Men Who Mix, River Oaks Square Arts Center, 6:30am-9:30am. Fundraising Event befitting River Oaks Square Arts Center. Tickets are $65.00 ea . Reserved Tables are $750.00 – tables include Tickets and Seating for 10. Tickets and Reserved tables are limited. Event featuring Gentleman of the Community preparing and serving their special entrees, appetizers, desserts or beverages. Winners are determined by the number of Tips in the Tip Jar at the Chef’s table.
May 21: Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group, Cabrini Mediplex Serenity Room, 11:00am-1:00pm. This group is designed for Caregivers and/or family members of those diagnosed with Alzheimer/Dementia. We offer educational handouts, sharing time, and lunch is provided. The group typically meets on the fourth Monday of each month, but since Memorial Day is on the 4th Monday, we will meet the 3rd Monday in May. Call Becky Watkins: 318-448-6938.
May 21: Alzheimer’s Activity Group, Cabrini Mediplex Serenity Room, 11:00am-12:30pm. The staff from Brookdale will offer appropriate activities with a fun, hands-on approach for those with Alzheimer’s disease. This group meets on the fourth Monday of the month in conjunction with the Caregivers Support Group. The caregiver must attend the Caregivers Group and stay on campus during this group time. Lunch is provided. The group meets on the fourth Monday of each month. Call Becky Watkins: 318-448-6938.
May 21: Breathing and Relaxation, Rapides Women’s and Children’s Hospital Cascade Room, 6:30pm-8:30pm. Taught by a certified childbirth instructor, this class will be an in-depth opportunity to practice breathing and relaxation techniques and other comfort measures for labor and delivery. The support partner/father is encouraged to attend. Bring pillows to class. Call: 318-769-4440.
May 22: Adult Summer Reading Program Kick-Off, Libuse Branch Library, 6:30pm-8:00pm. The theme this year is “Libraries Rock!” and we rock the house with local mystery writer, Ashley Weaver! Weaver is the Technical Services Coordinator at the Allen Parish Libraries in Oberlin. She has worked in libraries since she was 14; she was a page and then a clerk before obtaining her MLIS from Louisiana State University. Cost: Free. Call: 318-443-7259. www.rpl.org
May 24: Children’s Summer Reading Program Kick-Off, Libuse Branch Library, 10:00apm-12:00pm. The theme this year is “Libraries Rock!” Come pick up your schedules and find out what’s planned this summer at your neighborhood library. Cost: Free. Call: 318-443-7259. www.rpl.org
May 24: Summer Reading Program Kick-Off, Martin Branch Library, 3:00pm-4:00pm. This year’s theme is: Libraries Rock! Come in and pick up your materials to begin your program of reading and rock out with Mike Neal Schroeder, the “Real Deal” Drummer! Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-7575. www.rpl.org
May 24: Teen Project—Upcycled Flower Pots, Johnson Branch Library, 3:30pm-4:30pm. Just about anything, even a broken pot, an old handbag, or a old watering can could be used to grow flowers, herbs and other plants. All the seeds, potting medium, and containers are provided. You select the unique container you want to use to grow you plant. Cost: Free. Call: 318-776-5153. www.rpl.org
May 24: The Historian Talks—Red River Campaign and Its Toll, Westside Regional Library, 6:00pm-7:30pm. Join us as we welcome Dr. Henry O. Robertson, associate professor of History at Louisiana College as he discusses the Red River Campaign in the spring of 1864 – one of the most destructive of the Civil War. This book takes a fresh look at the fierce battles at Mansfield and Pleasant Hill, the Union army’s escape from Monett’s Ferry and the burning of Alexandria and explains the causes and consequences of the war in Central Louisiana. Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-2483. www.rpl.org
May 24: Teens/Tweens Summer Reading Program Kick-Off, Libuse Branch Library, 6:30pm-8:00pm. The theme this year is “Libraries Rock!” Come pick up your schedules and find out what’s planned this summer at your neighborhood library. Cost: Free. Call: 318-443-7259. www.rpl.org
May 25: Don’t Fry Day, Rapides Regional Medical Center Main Hallway, 11:00am-1:00pm. To raise awareness about the dangers of sun cancer, Rapides Cancer Center and the American Cancer Society will be handing out sun-safety tips and will have a drawing for a “Fun Sun Safety” basket. Cost: Free.
May 25: History of the Noble Buffalo Soldier, King Branch Library, 4:00pm-5:00pm. U.S. Civil War, regiments of African-American men known as buffalo soldiers served on the western frontier, battling Indians and protecting settlers. Find out about their brave history presented by Rapides Parish Library staff member, Suzanne Borsage. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-3912. www.rpl.org
May 26: NAMI May Education Event, Wesley Center 2350 Methodist Parkway in Woodworth, 8:30am–4:30pm. Topics include Spirituality and Health, Mindfulness; and Depression, Understanding Your Purpose in Life. This workshop is a great way to stay informed and learn the latest theories and techniques in the behavioral health field while fulfilling your professional education requirements. This workshop is in the process of approval for 6 clinical hours for Social Work.
May 26: Summer Reading Program Kick-Off, Boyce Branch Library, 10:00am-12:00pm. We’re getting ready to rock and roll as the 2018 Summer Reading Program gets underway. Come find out what will be happening this summer and dress as your favorite rock star! Cost: Free. Call: 318-793-2182. www.rpl.org
May 26: Summer Reading Program Kick-Off, Hineston Branch Library, 10:00am-12:00pm. We’re getting ready to rock and roll as the 2018 Summer Reading Program gets underway. Come find out what will be happening this summer. Cost: Free. Call: 318-793-8461. www.rpl.org
May 26: Fiesta De Mayo, Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site, 10:00am to 7:00pm. Come join us for our 1st Annual Fiesta de Mayo. There will be games and activities, a Chihuahua beauty contest, Mexican food and much more! For full details, please contact us at (318)484-2390.
May 26: Kids Summer Safety, Westside Regional Library, 1:00pm-3:00pm. You don’t have to give up having fun to be safe – in fact being safe on your bicycle, skateboard, playing baseball or swimming makes it more fun! The Alexandria Fire and Alexandria Police Community Representatives are at Westside with tips on keeping safe during your summer. Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-2483. www.rpl.org
May 29: Mad Science—Oil and Water Do They Mix?, King Branch Library, 2:00pm-3:00pm. We’re in the King Labs to conduct fun experiments. Do oil and colored water mix or will they reject one another? Find out! Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-3912. www.rpl.org
May 30: Rainbow Slime Children’s Craft Project, Martin Branch Library, 2:00pm-4:00pm. Household products help us create some colorful rainbow slime. Food coloring, glue, and a few other ingredients will create a goopy-slimy rainbow of fun! Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-7575. www.rpl.org
June 2: Red River Chorale’s Medieval Feast, St. James Episcopal Church and School Parish Hall, 6:00pm. Don’t miss this opportunity to step back in time and enjoy the rollicking revelry as you support the Red River Chorale. Admission includes dinner, entertainment and adult spirits. A silent auction and wine pull will round out the festivities. Themed dress is requested and encouraged, but not required. Tickets are available from any Chorale member, redriverchorale.com and ticket-central.org. Cost: $50.00. Call Auna Oncay: 318-229-8955.
June 5: Healing Hearts Perinatal Loss Support Group, Rapides Women’s and Children’s Hospital Trellis Room, 6:00pm. The group helps parents who have lost babies. Call: 318-769-7569.
June 9: Kolin Lodge Kids Day, 119 Boone Miller Road in Pineville, 10:00am-4:00pm. Kids Day will feature food, jumpers, a craft market, petting zoo, water activities, a water slide and more. Cost: Free; $25.00 Vendor Registration. Call: 318-443-7249.
Sports
Ongoing-May: Yoga Class, Cabrini Mediplex Yoga Rx Room, 4:00pm-5:00pm. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat. Come make new friends, get flexible and enjoy the health benefits of Yoga! Classes are on-going and meet every Monday, Wednesday or Thursday. Call Becky Watkins: 318-448-6938.
May 5: Louisiana Dragon Boat Races, Alexandria Levee Park Amphitheatre, 8:30am. Come cheer local teams in this fundraiser for the Alexandria Museum of Art. Opening ceremonies begin at 8:30am with the final races scheduled for the afternoon. Call: 318-443-3458.
May 5, 12, 19, 26 & June 2: Saturday Morning Qi Gong, Alexandria Museum of Art, 10:30am. Alexandria Museum of Art and Rapides Regional Medical Center have partnered to present Healthy Living @AMoA. Originating in ancient China roughly four thousand years ago, Qi Gong or Qigong (pronounced Chee Gong, literally “Life Energy Cultivation”) is an ancient system of coordinated body postures and movements combined with deep breathing and meditation. It is a powerful tool used to stimulate good health, spirituality, and a state of calm mindfulness. Cost: Free. Call: 318-443-3458.
May 8, 15, 22, 29 & June 5: Yoga in the Gallery, Alexandria Museum of Art, 5:45pm. Yoga Tao is for all experience levels, incorporating spirit-mind-body techniques. Part of Healthy Living at AMoA. Sponsored by Rapides Regional Medical Center. Cost: Free. Call: 318-443-3458.
May 12 & 26: Yoga for Kids, Johnson Branch Library, 10:00am-11:00am. Quincy L. Vidrine, M.Ed. from the LSU-Ag Center introduced children and parents to the fun side of Yoga. Participants are encouraged to wear socks, loose fitting clothing and bring a Yoga mat or beach towel to use for floor positions. Cost: Free. Call: 318-776-5153. www.rpl.org
May 19: MDA Muscle Walk, Alexander Fulton Mini-Park, 10:00am. MDA’s Muscle Walk helps raise awareness and funds to fight muscular dystrophy. Muscle Walk is a time to celebrate the supporters, caregivers, friends and family who make the journey of living with MDA possible. Call: 337-234-0088.
