Paws: Paws With Purpose, the Therapy Animal Program at The Glen, took a walk on the wild side Feb. 17 and hosted a safari themed style show for residents with clothes provided by Ruth’s. It was a great time for all who attended.

‘Hello Dolly’: The historic Strand Theatre in downtown Shreveport hosted the legendary Broadway classic, “Hello Dolly,” on March 25. The nearly soldout show starred Emmy Awardwinner Sally Struthers as Dolly Levi. The Strand has had a remarkable season of big-name shows, including “Beauty and the Beast,” Hal Linden and his Big Band Orchestra and “West Side Story,” with several shows remaining. The 2014-15 season for The Strand is sure to be a great one as it is the 30th anniversary of the majestic theater being reopened. The 2014-15 Announcement Party is May 6.

Cook-off: Red River South Marina hosted the second Smokin’ on the Red BBQ Cook-Off on March 1. The event is sanctioned by the International Bar-B-Que Cooker’s Association. Included were complimentary tasting and local product samples. Smokin’ on the Red is the largest barbecue contest in North Louisiana and brings in pit masters from all over. Categories were chicken, ribs, pulled pork and brisket. Judging criteria were aroma, color, texture, taste and overall impression. Proceeds benefit the David Toms Foundation’s “Creating Hope for Children,” which works to create opportunities for at-risk children in hopes of giving them a brighter future.

Barber: The committee to elect Brian Barber Shreveport City Judge held an announcement reception and fundraiser March 3 at Savoie’s. Barber is Caddo assistant district attorney and was introduced by District Attorney Charles Scott. Numerous elected officials and family and friends attended.

Gumbo: Battle of the Gumbo Gladiators to benefit Volunteers for Youth Justice was held March 29 at Festival Plaza. “Jambalaya, Crawfish Pie, File’ Gumbo” was among tunes playing as attendees tasted samples. Roux the Day and Raise the Rouxf were among themed vendors. Remington College even had a whodunit with a deceased mannequin, footprints, fingerprints and wall of suspects who might have stolen their gumbo recipe. Their team consisted of a criminal justice, business and medical instructor. Arts and crafts and desserts were sold under the pavilion.

Appreciation Dinner: The Arc Caddo-Bossier Foundation Appreciation Dinner was held April 1 at the Shreveport Club in downtown Shreveport. This was an evening of celebrating the people, companies and organizations that support the work of the Arc Caddo-Bossier Foundation. Cocktails began at 6 p.m. with dinner beginning at 7 p.m. At 6:45 p.m., everyone gathered to hear Gay Verges share her amazing story of her gaining strength in The Arc’s therapeutic horseback program, GREAT.

Music in the Park: The city of Shreveport’s Public Assembly and Recreation department in conjunction with Southern Hills Park Advisory Council and Southern Hills Homeowners Association held Southern Hills Music in the Park on April 5. While organizers probably thought the day would offer spring weather, many were seated in chairs with blankets. This free event featured music by The Bluebirds and The Eric Craig Band to which people danced on the grounds. Vendors offered food and jewelry. Activities for children included bounce houses and a clown. Law enforcement and people running for office also exhibited. The library bookmobile was there, too.

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