Marlon Jackson: Marlon Jackson of the legendary Jackson 5 was in Shreveport in early April. Jackson performed with his brothers at the Horseshoe Riverdome. The following day he met with city leaders and supporters at the Shreveport Country Club for a “Study Peace Session and Social” to discuss his Study-Peace Foundation building a playground in Shreveport in conjunction with the KaBoom Foundation.

– Special to the Forum

PetSavers Give For Good: The Community Foundation hosted their annual Give For Good day in Shreveport-Bossier City in early May. Dozens of nonprofit organizations participated in the fund-raising campaign. PetSavers hosted a party at John Cariere’s newest bed and breakfast location, Fairfield Manor, in the Fairfield Historic District. Nearly $11,000 was raised for PetSavers during this year’s Give for Good campaign.

– Mark Crawford

Popsy’s Bayou Tea: A private tasting of Popsy’s Bayou Tea was held at Rotolo’s Pizzeria on 70th Street to introduce Serio Southern Spirits’ new blended cocktail sensation. According to owner/ developer Philip Serio, locals have loved the Long Island tealike drink for years. Revelers first became acquainted during Mardi Gras gatherings and at Rotolo’s. Now it is offered to the masses and will be available at many venues and is a sell-out at Century- Link Center. “Careful,” he says, “it is not your grandma’s tea.”

– Hugh Johnson

Strand Season Announcement: The historic stage at The Strand Theatre played host to the Strand’s 32nd Season Announcement Party on May 5. The 2016-2017 season include classics like Pippin, Fame, The Musical, 42nd Street and Cinderella. Other shows scheduled to take the stage include Shanghai Acrobats, Once, and the Black Jacket Symphony featuring Michael Jackson’s Thriller. Tickets can be bought by calling the Strand box office at226.8555 or visiting thestrandtheatre.com/tickets.

– Mark Crawford