Art

Ongoing-October: 8th Annual Paint Pink Art Exhibit.  Central Louisiana Arts & Healthcare, Inc. presents the 8th annual Paint Pink Art Exhibit commemorating National Breast Cancer Awareness Month at both hospital galleries during the month of October.  Art by 21 different local artists will be exhibited at the Cabrini and Rapides Galleries.  The Cabrini Gallery is located in the Cabrini Outpatient Center (1st floor across from Radiology).  The Rapides Gallery is located in the South Tower between the ER and the Lobby. Cost: Free. Call: 318-769-7602.

October 14: Forging Fibers-Paper Making for Adults, Alexandria Museum of Art, 10:00am-3:30pm. Learn traditional yet simple paper making techniques using a variety of organic material and paper rags to create a colorful, textured and layered composition. Pre-registration is required. Cost: $50 for members, $70 for non-members. Call Nancy Noles: 318-443-3458.

October 14: Second Saturday at AMoA, Alexandria Museum of Art, 10:00am-4:00pm. Free admission every second Saturday! Cost: Free all day. Call AMoA: 443-3458.

October 14: Connected Visions: Louisiana’s Artistic Lineage Public Opening Ceremony, Alexandria Museum of Art, 10:30am. Celebrate with us this fall as we open our permanent collection gallery for the first time in our 40 year history. This exhibit will spotlight the development of Louisiana art in the state through connections between artists and educators. Cost: Free. Call Gar Pickering: 318-443-3458.

October 20: Exhibition Reception-Artwalk, 1330 Second Street, 4:00pm-9:00pm. Sponsored by River Oaks Art Center. Art exhibition featuring Sue Zimmerman, Rhonda Reap and Morgan Lasyone. Exhibit dates are October 20th through November 11th. Cost: Free. Call Rachael Dauzat: 318-473-2670.

October 27: Score, A Film Music Documentary, Hearn Stage, 7:00pm. Sponsored by Arts Council of Central Louisiana. Taking a peek at how composers developed some of the most iconic scores in history. A presentation of the Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers. Cost: Adults $10, Students $8. Call Julie Prevot: 484-4474.

October 28: Van Gogh Gala, 1330 Second Street, 7:00pm. Sponsored by River Oaks Art Center. Annual fundraiser featuring both a live and silent auction. 2017 theme- Louisiana Mystical. Cost: $65 per person, reserved tables $750. Call Rachael Dauzat: 318-473-2670.

November 7: Drop-In Drawing for Adults, Alexandria Museum of Art, 5:30pm-7:00pm. Class is limited to 20 per meeting date. Offers basic instruction in drawing techniques to get you started. All supplies included. Cost: Free to AMoA members, $10 for non-members. Call Nancy Noles: 318-443-3458.

Music

October 5: Downtown Rocks Presents Keith Frank and the Soileau Zydeco Band, Alexandria City Hall, 6:00pm-8:00pm.  Sponsored by Division of Community Services. Vendors will be on site catering to concert needs. Cost: Free. Call Courtney Paige: 318-449-5108.

October 7: Good News Gospel Trio, Oaks Care Center, 1:00pm.  The trio will perform for residents and guests alike.  Call: 318-308-5795.

October 12: Downtown Rocks Presents 92-Twenty, Alexandria City Hall, 6:00pm-8:00pm.  Sponsored by Division of Community Services. Vendors will be on site catering to concert needs. Cost: Free. Call Courtney Paige: 318-449-5108.

October 15: Providence Gospel Quartet, Trinity United Methodist Church in Alexandria, 10:30am-12:00pm.  The quartet will provide music for the Sunday morning service which will be followed by a noon meal. The quartet will have an encore performance for the Sunday evening service at Solid Ground in Ball.  Call: 318-445-1081.

October 21: Mozart’s “Jupiter”, Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center, 7:30pm. Sponsored by Rapides Symphony Orchestra. Featuring guest cellist Meehae Ryo. Tickets available at www.rapidessymphony.org/purchase-tickets. Cost: Adults $25, Seniors $15, Students $10 and Family $50. Call Rebecca Kingma: 318-442-9709.

October 24: Somewhere in Time, First United Methodist Church of Pineville, 7:30pm.  Red River Chorale celebrates five centuries of great choral music beginning with Renaissance style madrigals and motets, and including great works from the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic periods.  Challenging 20th century pieces will also be featured.  Cost: $15.00 adults; $5.00 students.  Call: 318-484-4463.

October 27: Trace Adkins, Paragon Casino Resort Mari Center, 9:00pm.  Adkins made his debut in 1996 with the album Dreamin’ Out Loud.  Since then, Adkins has released ten more studio albums and two Greatest Hits compilations. In addition, he has charted more than 20 singles on the Billboard country music charts, including the Number One hits “(This Ain’t) No Thinkin’ Thing”, “Ladies Love Country Boys”, and “You’re Gonna Miss This”. Cost: $55.00-$100. Call: 800-745-3000.

October 28: Forest Hill Gospel Singing, Nursery Festival Grounds, 5:00pm.  Forest Hill Masonic Lodge is sponsoring a Gospel Singing for the entire town and friends, weather permitting. Several gospel groups will participate.  There will be a hotdog dinner for up to 300 people. Attendees should bring their own chairs. Cost: Free. Call: 318-623-5677 or 318-445-1081.

October 28: Floating Down the River Thames, St. James Episcopal Church, 7:00pm.  Rapides Symphony Orchestra instrumentalists, directed by RSO Music Director Joshua Zona, featuring Weston Jennings, guests continuo and organist mark the 300th anniversary of the premiere of Handel’s Water Music on the River Thames.  This festive concert features the complete Water Music and Handel’s Organ Concerto #13 in F Major nicknamed “The Cuckoo and the Nightingale”. Presented by the McCormick-Smith Fund, Inc.  Cost: Free.  Call: 318-445-9845.

Theatre

October 12-22: Agatha Christie’s “Witness for the Prosecution,” Kress Theatre.  Sponsored by City Park Players. Performances will begin nightly Thursday through Saturday at 7:30pm, with Sunday matinee at 2:30pm. For more information and tickets, visit www.cpptheatre.com. Cost: General Admission $15; Senior and Military $12; Student $7; all Thursday tickets $5. Call City Park Players: 318-484-4478.

October 19: The Art of Murder: A Mystery Dinner Theatre, Alexandria Museum of Art, 6:30pm. Join us for an evening of murder and mystery with AMoA and the Unusual Suspects in the Third Floor Gallery. Cost: $45. Call AMoA: 318-443-3458.

October 26: Spooky Stories, Gwartney Theatre, LSUA, 7:00pm. Sponsored by LSUA Empty Space Players. Come share your talent with us. Bring your spookiest ghost story, your scariest song or your most chilling poetry. Cost: Free. Call Robert Harper: 318-473-6473.

October 26-29: The Mousetrap, Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center. The Mousetrap is the longest running theatrical production in history!  Mysterious twists and thrilling turns abound when a group of strangers stranded in a guest house during a snowstorm discover that a murderer is in their midst. Whodunit? Performances begin nightly at 7:00pm Thursday through Saturday; Sunday matinee begins at 2:30pm.  Cost: $18 Adults; $16 Seniors 55+; $13 Students & Groups 10+. Call: 318-487-8243. www.lagniappetheatre.com

November 9-12: One Act Play Festival, Hearn Stage at Kress Theatre. Sponsored by Spectral Sisters Productions.  The five winning plays dealing with the complexity of human relationships, seen from the perspective of very different characters. All shows start at 7:30pm, except on Sunday, when the show starts at 2:30pm. Cost: $12.00 adults; $10.00 students.

Dance

November 3: BODYTRAFFIC, Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center, 7:00pm. Sponsored by Arts Council of Central Louisiana. Los Angeles based dance company BODYTRAFFIC has performed for sold-out audiences at prestigious theatres and festivals throughout North American. For tickets and information, visit www.ticket-central.org. Prices will increase by $5 at the door. Cost: Adults $20, Seniors (65+) $12, Students $10, Family (2 children and 2 adults) $50. Call Julie Prevot: 318-484-4474.

Events

Ongoing-October: New Hope Al-Anon Group, Horseshoe Drive Methodist Church in Alexandria, 7:00pm.  Al‑Anon is a mutual support group. Everyone at the meeting shares as an equal, having experienced a problem with someone else’s drinking. You are free to ask questions or to talk about your situation. If you’d rather just listen, you can.  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-October 30: First United Methodist Pumpkin Patch, 2727 Jackson Street, 10:00am-6:00pm. Pumpkin prices vary according to size. Call Dawn Branton: 318-443-5696.

Ongoing-December 31: Hope House Adopt a Family. Sponsored by Hope House of Central Louisiana. Help brighten a homeless mother and child for Christmas. Call Crystal Guillory: 318-487-2061 x 202.

October 6, 13, 20, 27: Paint the Town Pink. Rapides Cancer Center and RRMC employees invite you to join them as they celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month by wearing pink every Friday in October. Cost: Free.

October 6: 11th Annual Pink and White Balloon Launch, CHRISTUS Cabrini Women’s and Children’s Hospital, 12:00pm.  Please join Cabrini associates and community as we launch pink and white balloons to raise awareness about breast cancer. Cost: Free. Call Stuart Spurlin: 318-483-4074.

October 7: Fall Herb Day and Arts & Crafts Festival, 3601 Bayou Rapides Road, 8:00am-1:00pm. Sponsored by Kent House. Herb sales, master gardeners plant sales and large yard sale in visitor’s center. Cost: Free. Call Alice Scarborough: 318-487-5998.

October 7: 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.

October 7: Healing Hearts Walk to Remember, Alexandria Zoo, 9:30am. The Walk to Remember is sponsored by the Healing Hearts Community Perinatal Loss Support Group. Cost: Free. Call: 318-769-7569.

October 7: The Mitten Storytime and Craft, TREE House Children’s Museum, 9:30am-11:00am. Join us for a story and craft. Cost: $5.00. Call TREE House: 318-619-9394.

October 7: Bethel Apartments 45 Year Celebration, 724 Willow Glen Road, 10:00am-3:00pm.  “Fun Day” activities planned include: food, bounce houses for children, face painting for children, board games for children, video game tournament for pre-teens and teens,  Bingo, dominoes and board games for adults/seniors, line dancing and vendor services.  Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-1261.

October 7: Faces of Freedom Ride, Alexandria, 10:00am. Sponsored by Re-Entry Solutions. Cost: Free, donations are requested. Call Re-Entry Solutions: 318-443-0189.

October 7: Oktoberfest, WFLA Kolin Lodge in Pineville, 10:00am-4:00pm.  Celebrate German culture and experience a demonstration with the RPSO D.A.R.E K-9 unit. Vendor booths are available for $25.00.  The WFLA Kolin Lodge is located at 119 Booner Miller Road in Pinville.  Cost: Free.

October 7: Cupcake Wars, Martin Branch Library, 2:30pm-4:00pm. It’s the battle of the buttercream! Who can triumph as the Top Decorator in this sweet and tasty competition for teens? Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-7575. www.rpl.org

October 9: A Taste of Fall DIY Craft, Libuse Branch Library, 10:00am-12:00pm. Pumpkin Spice, Cinnamon, Apples dipped in warm caramel…all delicious scents and tastes of fall! Now that you’re in the mood, let’s do a bit of craft painting!  Let Melissa give you the grand tour of the sights, scents and tastes of October! Cost: Free. Call: 318-443-7259. www.rpl.org

October 9: 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.  Check our Face Book page: Widows and Widowers of Central La.  Call Becky Watkins: 318-448-6938.

October 9: Let Me Be Great, King Branch Library, 3:30pm. Time for teens, ages 13+ to get together in a non-judgmental environment to enjoy activities that encourage learning, listening and creativity. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-3912. www.rpl.org

October 10, 17, 24 & 31: Toddler Time, TREE House Children’s Museum, 9:30am-11:00am. Join us for a story and craft. Cost: $5.00; children 2 and under Free. Call TREE House: 318-619-9394.

October 10: MakerSpace Science Camp, Rapides Main Library, 4:00pm-5:30pm. We’re in the MakerSpace Laboratory with David Sproles! We’re soldering a wire-to-wire joint and making a LED flashlight for safety. Students will be able to take their flashlight home. Safety will be stressed and parents must sign a release. Pre-Registration is required and space is limited. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-2411 x1036. www.rpl.org

October 11: 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.

October 11: 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.

October 11: Relax at Westside, Westside Regional Library, 4:00pm-5:00pm. Overworked? Stressed? Come to Westside and kick back! We will discuss common relaxation techniques and focusing on channeling anxiety and other issues through art. Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-2483 x 1906. www.rpl.org

October 12: Eww Slime!, Johnson Branch Library, 3:30pm-4:30pm. We’re in the Johnson laboratory for some squishy-icky fun! We’ll create slime and then take a look at the scientific properties of this gelatinous goo!  Cost: Free. Call: 318-776-5153. www.rpl.org

October 12: Savor the Season Garden Party, Food Bank of Central Louisiana Demonstration Garden, 6:30pm-8:30pm.  The Food Bank of Central Louisiana’s Good Food Project will host a unique fundraising event featuring chefs from local restaurants serving signature dishes. Organic produce and herbs grown in the Good Food Project garden and Inglewood Farm will be incorporated in the dishes.  Cost: $25.00.  Call: 318-445-2773.

October 13: National Night Out, McDonald Branch Library, 5:30pm-8:30pm. The McDonald Branch joins with the community, the Glenmora Police and Volunteer Fire Departments and the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s office for an evening with the community. Come out and learn about how to protect your neighborhoods and community. It’s kid safe and family-friendly fun! Cost: Free. Call: 318-748-4848. www.rpl.org

October 14: Inglewood Fall Fest, Inglewood Farm, 8:00am-12:00pm. Inglewood Harvest Barn Market featuring live music, Creel family horse rides, fall transplant sale, farm wagon tours and kids crafts. Cost: Free. Call Beth Hebert: 310-717-5792.

October 14: Movie Mania Presents The Emoji Movie, King Branch Library, 12:00pm-2:00pm. Hidden inside a smartphone, the bustling city of Textopolis is home to all emojis. Each emoji has only one facial expression, except for Gene, an exuberant emoji with multiple expressions. Determined to become “normal” like the other emojis, Gene and his friends discover a great danger that could threaten their phone’s very existence. Cue up the fun! Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-3912. www.rpl.org

October 14: Nature Cat Explorations, TREE House Children’s Museum, 1:00pm. Explore your backyard with Nature Cat! Cost: $5.00; children under 2 Free. Call TREE House: 318-619-9394.

October 14: Main Movie Mania Presents The Game Plan, Rapides Main Library, 1:00pm-3:00pm. Bachelor football star Joe Kingman seems to have it all. He is wealthy and carefree, and his team is on the way to capturing a championship. Suddenly, he is tackled by some unexpected news: He has a young daughter, the result of a last fling with his ex-wife. Joe must learn to balance his personal and professional lives with the needs of his child. Refreshments will be served. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-2411 x1036. www.rpl.org

October 16-21: Friends of the Glenmora Library Annual Book and Bake Sale, McDonald Branch Library, 1:00pm-4:00pm. Monday through Saturday, the annual book and bake sale is on! This annual event has a wide selection of books, CDs, DVDs, children’s books, cookbooks and more! The Friends of the Glenmora Library will also have yummy baked goods to purchase. Clear out some shelf space and come and pick up some great deals! Cost: Free. Call: 318-748-4848. www.rpl.org

October 18: Cenla Women’s Connection Luncheon, Conference Center at the Greens, 12:00pm.  Local author Denise Laborde will present “Leaning on the Rock”. Registration includes a delicious lunch and an inspirational message.  Please RSVP by Friday, October 13th.  Cost: $16.00.  Call: 318-481-7880. E-mail: [email protected].

October 18: Meet the Broadway Fire Department, King Branch Library, 3:00pm-4:00pm. The firefighters from the Broadway Fire Department will be on hand to meet the kids, explore the fire truck up close, take a pictures behind the wheel of the of a real firetruck!  Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-3912. www.rpl.org

October 18: Storytime Craft Fall Edition, Martin Branch Library, 3:00pm-4:00pm. Children’s story time coupled with a make and take craft. We’ll read stories about the fall and then create a lovely silk leaf wall hanging. Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-7575. www.rpl.org

October 19: Longleaf Pine Field Day and Workshop, Kisatchie Ranger District, 229 Dogwood Park Road in Provencal, 9:00am-3:00pm.  A special opportunity for private landowners, silvicultural contractors, and forestry/wildlife professionals to learn about longleaf restoration and wildlife management includes a guided air-conditioned bus tour of several areas of Kisatchie National Forest that demonstrate forest conversion and establishment techniques that utilize prescribed burning, harvesting practices, herbicide applications, site preparation methods and seedling planting options. Registration includes lunch. Cost: $10.00.  Call Chris Rice: 318-237-5569.

October 19: 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.

October 19: Mini Pumpkin Painting, Johnson Branch Library, 3:30pm-4:30pm. It’s time to create fall décor for your home. We’ll take mini pumpkins and create a unique arrangement for your mantelpiece or a fun display for your front porch. Cost: Free. Call: 318-776-5153. www.rpl.org

October 19: United Way Wild Cook Off, Third Street in Downtown Alexandria, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Sponsored by United Way of Central Louisiana. Come out and enjoy music and drinks while sampling great BBQ, ribs, Cajun and wild game dishes. Each category will have a winner decided by our panel of judges, and we also have a People’s Choice award voted on by the tips each team receives from the community. Cost: Free. Call Abby Blocker: 318-443-7203 x 3.

October 19: Muscular Dystrophy Support Group, RRMC Medical Terrace Gallery Room, 6:00pm. Quarterly meetings include guest speakers and access to staff from the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Call: 337-234-0088.

October 19-21: A Very Merry Market, Alexandria Riverfront Center. Sponsored by Junior League of Alexandria. October 19th 7:00pm-10:00pm. Ladies Night: $45 for dinner, drinks and shopping. October 20th 9:00am-8:00pm. General Admission shopping is $5.00 in advance and $8.00 at door. October 21st 9:00am-5:00pm general admission shopping. To purchase tickets, visit www.jlalexandria.com. Call Alison Ledet: 318-443-6975.

October 20: Genealogy Class, Robertson Branch Library, 10:00am-12:00pm. This class will show you how to use Ancestry.com Library Edition to search the various databases, archives and military records for your ancestors. Cost: Free. Call: 318-640-3098. www.rpl.org

October 20: Fall ArtWalk 2017, Downtown Alexandria Cultural District, 4:00pm-9:00pm. Sponsored by Arts Council of Central Louisiana. ArtWalk takes over the streets of the Alexandria Cultural District again with music, dance, visual artists and craft vendors as well as food and drink. For more information and registration visit www.ticket-central.org. Cost: Free. Call Julie Prevot: 318-484-4474.

October 21: 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: 318-769-3445.

October 21: Fall Arts & Crafts Show, 2450 HWY 28 East-Kees Park, 9:00am-4:00pm. Items include painting, pencil art, jewelry, stained glass, woodwork, ceramics, photography, wreaths, handmade soaps, antique paper advertising, jams & jellies and much more. Cost: Free. Call Donna Fontenot: 318-443-1785.

October 21: World Wide Day of Play, TREE House Children’s Museum, 9:00am-3:00pm. Cost: Free. Call TREE House: 318-619-9394.

October 21: CPR Class, 1831 Turner Street, 9:00am. Sponsored by YWCA. Call YWCA: 318-445-8880.

October 21: Kent Plantation House Bridal Fair, 3601 Bayou Rapides Road, 10:00am-2:00pm. A wonderful opportunity for brides. Local vendors with bridal expertise will be on site. Cost: Free . Call Julie Goodyear: 318-487-5998.

October 23: 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 meets on the fourth Monday of each month. Call Becky Watkins: 318-448-6938.

October 23: 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.

October 23: Sibling Class, RRMC Women’s and Children’s Hospital Cascade Room, 6:30pm-8:00pm. This class is offered to children expecting a little brother or sister. It helps them understand where mom is when the baby is being born and lets them know how important it is to become a big brother or sister. The ideal age for this class is 3-10. Registration is required. Cost: Free. Call: 318-769-4440.

October 24: Teen Marshmallow Challenge, Westside Regional Library, 4:00pm-5:00pm. Come and learn the importance of teamwork in science and engineering. Teens take marshmallows, spaghetti and over other common items and work together or independently to build the tallest structure before structural failure. Pre-registration is encouraged to ensure enough supplies are on hand. Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-2483. www.rpl.org

October 24: Kids Craft Night Mason Jar Luminaries, Robertson Branch Library, 5:00pm-7:00pm. With mason jars and the colors of fall, we’ll create awesome luminaries to use to light up the front porch or have as a fun way to dress up the dinner table. For safe use with LED tea lights or battery operated string lights. Cost: Free. Call: 318-640-3098. www.rpl.org

October 24: Come Write In, Rapides Main Library, 5:30pm. The members get together to discuss what they’re working on, their recent successes and participate in an exercise called “It was a dark and stormy night…” With this clichéd phrase, we take a trip into various genres and exercise our imaginations. Bring a writing/reading friend with you! Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-2411 x1036. www.rpl.org

October 24: Girl Talk, RRMC Women’s and Children’s Hospital Cascade Room, 6:00pm-8:00pm. This two-hour class is designed for girls between the ages of 9-13 and their mothers. If mothers can’t attend, aunts and grandmothers are welcome. The class will explain some of the physical and emotional changes that occur to adolescents during puberty. The class is also designed to help parents open the lines of communication with their daughters. Please pre-register. Cost: $20.00 per family. Call: 318-769-3445.

October 25: Tie Dye Socks, Lecompte Senior Community Center, 10:00am-11:00am. We’re creating a fun craft for seniors to complete and afterward they’ll have a fun and funky pair of tie-dye socks to wear to keep toes toasty warm as we head into cooler days. Cost: Free. Call: 318-776-5153. www.rpl.org

October 25: Spooky Storytime and Movie, Westside Regional Library, 4:00pm-6:30pm. Come and listen to a fun chilly-bumpy story and then stay enjoy the movie Hotel Transylvania.  You’ll sure to have great shivery fun at the library! Cost: Free. Call: 318-442-2483. www.rpl.org

October 26-28: Louisiana Early Childhood Association 51st Annual Conference, Alexandria Riverfront Center.  The theme for this year’s conference is “Early Childhood Strong”. The conference will help attendees learn about new research in early childhood education and methods that will help better address the needs of the children and families they serve.  Attendees who teach in public and private schools will be able to earn continuing education units. Teachers and assistants in Head Start Centers and Child Care Centers will be able to earn hours toward their required yearly certifications.  Registration includes breakfast and lunch. Cost: $85.00.  Call Mary Lou Maples: 318-443-1562.

October 26: LSUA Trick ‘r Treat Street, LSUA Campus, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Sponsored by LSUA. The annual Trick ‘r Treat is even better this year! Come trick or treat in a safe environment and meet students, faculty and staff from LSUA. Cost: $3.00. Call Haylee Malone: 318-427-4403.

October 26: Fall Family Festival, Kees Park, 6:00pm-8:00pm. Sponsored by City of Pineville. Cost: $1.00. Call Madonna LeBlanc: 318-449-5660.

October 26-28: Zoo Boo, Alexandria Zoo, 6:00pm-8:30pm. Sponsored by City of Alexandria and FOTAZ. Join in the fun at Central Louisiana’s biggest Halloween extravaganza. This family-friendly Halloween experience is three nights of Spooktacular, Scare-Free fun! Enjoy Halloween activities for kids at the Festival Plaza, photo ops, and sweets and treats along the tick-or-treat trail through the Zoo. Admission is cash only; FOTAZ memberships and other zoo passes are not valid during Zoo Boo. Call Lee Ann Whitt: 318-441-6810.

October 27: Master Garden Series – Sustainable Gardening, 9:00am-10:30am. Frances Boudreaux from the Good Food Project will teach basic gardening skills to foster a love of growing your own food, herbs and flowers. There will be lots of hands-on learning. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-2411 x1036. www.rpl.org

October 27: Bag It Up, King Branch Library, 3:30pm-5:00pm. Never have a tote bag or carry-all when you need it? Bring the kids in and let their imagination run wild as they create a fun and fashionable carry-all for any occasion. Cost: Free. Call: 318-445-3912. www.rpl.org

October 27: Gumbo Cook-Off, McDonald Branch Library, 3:30pm-5:00pm. Every day is Gumbo Day! Whether you specialty gumbo is chicken and sausage, or flavorful seafood, we want you to share your best Gumbo and swap recipes! Judges will name the winner and a prize awarded. Cost: Free. Call: 318-748-4848. www.rpl.org

October 27: Tales Along the Bayou, Kent Plantation House, 6:00pm-8:30pm. Sponsored by Rapides Parish Library. Gather up the kids, pack a picnic supper and your blankets and mosquito repellant and head over to Kent Plantation House for ghostly tales and ghoulish fun for kids of all ages! Guests are Mike Anderson, the Dulcimer Guy, and South Louisiana folklorist, Tobias E. Taba, III.  Two sessions available, 6:00pm for younger children and 7:30pm for older children. Cost: Free. Call: Karla Kirby: 318-442-2482 x 1904.

October 27: LSUA Foundation Scholarship Gala, Alexandria Convention Hall, 6:30pm. Sponsored by LSUA Foundation. Tickets are on sale now for this black-tie event that celebrates LSUA donors and the university while raising money for scholarships and the institution. Table sponsorships are available.  Cost: $100 per person. Call Melinda Anderson: 318-619-2916.

October 28: Trunk or Treat, 2109 Lee Street, 10:00am-3:00pm. Sponsored by Junior League of Alexandria. Trunk or Treat and everything in the store is 50% off! Kids are welcome to wear their costumes. Cost: Free. Call Marilyn Stallings: 318-443-3381.

October 28: First United Methodist Church Fall Fun Fest, 2727 Jackson Street, 10:00am-3:00pm. Trunk or Treat is from 2:00pm to 3:00pm in parking lot beside church. Cost: Free (Food & Games available for purchase). Call Desiree Guillot: 318-443-2858.

October 28: Halloween Storytime, TREE House Children’s Museum, 1:00pm. Cost: $5.00. Call TREE House: 318-619-9394.

October 28: It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!, Robertson Branch Library, 2:00pm-4:00pm. Grab the family and come in and watch this October classic movie. There will be an encore presentation on Halloween at 4:00pm. Cost: Free. Call: 318-640-3098. www.rpl.org

October 28: Historic Rapides Cemetery Tour, 201 Hattie Street, Pineville, 3:00pm-5:00pm. Sponsored by Historical Association of Central Louisiana, City of Pineville and Alexandria/Pineville CVB. Guided walking tour featuring 5 characters buried in the Historic Rapides Cemetery. Individuals, dressed in period outfits, will share new and unique stories. Tours begin every 15 minutes. Tickets can be purchased on site, cash or check only. Cost: Adults $10.00; Children (12 and younger) $5.00. Call Bobby Hynson: 318-442-8629.

October 31: HAPPY HALLOWEEN! Be sure to drive safely and be on the lookout for Trick-or-Treaters!

October 31: Pumpkin Carving Contest, Rapides Regional Medical Center, 10:00am-2:00pm. Rapides Regional employees will display their creativity during the hospital’s annual Pumpkin Carving Contest. Come out and see the winning, and not-so-winning, displays. The pumpkins will be on display in the hallway across from The Gift Shop in the main hospital. Call: 318-769-3445.

October 31: Rapides Parish Library Fall Festival, 4:00pm-5:00pm. Your neighborhood library is the perfect safe-zone to come and enjoy playing festival games, creating quick crafts, and singing, laughing at a funny movie and win prizes and candy. Dress as your favorite superhero or book character and spend a little time at your neighborhood library!  Official time at each library is 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Some branches may extend their time – call to check the activities planned. Cost: Free. www.rpl.org

October 31: Pirates of the Libuse Branch Treasure Hunt, Libuse Branch Library, 4:00pm-5:00pm. Tour the new Libuse Branch and some added fun; bring in the kids for a treasure hunt! There will be games, activities, and there will be a treasure trove of candy treats for everyone! Cost: Free. Call: 318-443-7259. www.rpl.org

November 2: Decades of Women, Alexandria Convention Hall, 12:00pm. Sponsored by YWCA. Call YWCA: 318-442-3397.

November 3: 27th Annual All Souls Memorial Service, Central Louisiana State Hospital Historic Cemetery, 10:00am.  Refreshments will be served at the Rose Cottage Museum immediately after the service, compliments of Compassionate Care Hospice and the CLSH Cemetery Preservation Committee.  Call Ron Williams: 318-484-6202.

November 4: Scouting for Food Drive, Central Louisiana. Scouts will drop off Scouting for Food bags at homes on Saturday, November 4th and pick up filled bags from homes on Saturday, November 11th.  Food will go to the Food Bank of Central Louisiana, as well as food pantries in outlying areas. Call Boy Scout Council Service Center: 318-325-4634.

November 4: 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.

November 4: Train Day, TREE House Children’s Museum, 9:00am-3:00pm. Cost: $5.00; children under 2 Free. Call TREE House: 318-619-9394.

November 8: The Rapides Parish Library Celebrates 75 years of Service, System-wide libraries, 2:00pm. Sponsored by the Rapides Parish Library. Each library will have refreshments and planned activities that celebrates the day the Rapides Parish Library began its parish-wide service. Cost: Free. Call Suzanne James: 318-445-2411 x 1060.

Sports

Ongoing-October: 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.

October 5, 12, 19, 26 & November 2, 9: Tai Chi Chih Class, Cabrini Mediplex Yoga Rx Room, 9:00am-10:00am. Sponsored by CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital. This class will meet for six consecutive Thursdays and students will learn short form Tai Chi Chih for health and well-being. Please pre-register; space is limited. Cost: Free. Call Becky Watkins: 318-448-6938.

October 10, 17, 24 & 31: Healthy Living at AMoA Yoga in the Gallery, Alexandria Museum of Art, 5:45pm. As part of AMoA’s Healthy Living program, yoga is offered every Tuesday at AMoA for all experience levels. Cost: Free. Call AMoA: 318-443-3458.

October 10: Rapides Parish Cheer Competition, Rapides Parish Coliseum, 6:00pm-9:00pm.  The Rapides Parish Fair Spirit Spectacular 2017 is a cheer and dance competition for elementary, junior high, and senior high schools from around Rapides Parish. Teams will compete in categories such as show off and exhibition. The exhibition categories can also include competitive cheer and dance squads from around Central Louisiana not associated with a school. Spectators can contact any of the team coaches for information or go online to www.therapidesparishfair.com. Cost: $10.00 ages 2+. Call Mimi Bolden: 318-613-0384.

October 28: 2nd Annual Cabrini Halloween Hustle 5k, 1 Mile Fun Run and Trunk or Treat, CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital, 4:00pm-6:00pm. Sponsored by Children’s Miracle Network. This run and trunk or treat is a fundraiser for the Children’s Miracle Network. Sign up at www.runsignup.com. Cost: $25.00 for run, $1.00 for Trunk or Treat. Call Briar Simpson: 318-528-4047.

November 3: Super One Party on the Bayou, Links on the Bayou Golf Course, 12:00pm. Sponsored by CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital and Children’s Miracle Network. This golf tournament is a fundraiser for the Children’s Miracle Network. Cost: $600 per team of 4. Call Kellie Freebeck: 318-448-4952.

November 8: LSUA Men’s Basketball, The Fort at LSUA, 7:00pm. Call Larry Cordero: 318-619-2968.