Heroes Wear Tie-Dye - Blood Drive & Block Party 1-7PM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Heroes Wear Tie-Dye Blood Drive & Block Party Celebrates Love in the Face of Violence

New Orleans, LA – June 2, 2023 – The Maple Leaf Bar is proud to announce the upcoming "Heroes Wear Tie-Dye" Blood Drive and Block Party, scheduled to take place on Sunday, June 11th, from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm. This vibrant event will be held in front of the Maple Leaf Bar on Oak Street in uptown New Orleans and promises to bring families and friends together for an afternoon of love and support for the community.

In addition to the blood drive, the block party will offer a range of engaging activities for attendees of all ages. Live music performances by local artists will fill the air from the outdoor stage featuring the talents of Freddie Blue & the Friendship Circle Band, Cardboard Cowboy, and the Doyle Cooper Jazz Band. Several local tie-dye artists will have their art on display for purchase, and a silent auction will be held for some premium pieces, some of which have been selected from George Porter Jr.’s personal collection. Children's activities will include a tie-dye station where participants can create their own unique tie-dye masterpieces, as well as a beading booth featuring workshops conducted by the Great Spirit Warriors tribe.

The "Heroes Wear Tie-Dye" Blood Drive and Block Party was originally organized last year to honor the heroic actions of Joe Cooper, a local tie-dye artist who was shot during a home invasion while protecting his wife Leslie Cooper, beloved WWOZ host and jazz singer. Thanks to the selfless act of a blood donation, Joe's life was saved, and now he is getting stronger every day. Last year's event was even able to raise enough blood to send to Texas in the aftermath of the tragic mass shooting in Uvalde, further demonstrating the power of collective action and compassion in the wake of tragedy.

Recognizing the ongoing need for blood donations, particularly during the summer months when supplies tend to run low, the organizers have decided to make the "Heroes Wear Tie-Dye" Blood Drive and Block Party an annual event. Join us as we honor Joe Cooper, celebrate love and unity, and contribute to a cause that saves lives. Together, we can make a lasting impact.

The "Heroes Wear Tie-Dye" Blood Drive and Block Party would not be possible without the generous support of individual donors and community partners.

To contribute, visit https://gofund.me/8c45cfd9

Sign up to donate blood at https://www.tbcdonors.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/49280

In a city renowned for its resilience and compassion, the "Heroes Wear Tie-Dye" Blood Drive and Block Party aims to celebrate the heroic acts of ordinary people, highlighting the power of love in overcoming violence. By emphasizing the importance of blood donation, this event seeks to unite the community in a shared commitment to saving lives and supporting those affected by violence.

For further information, contact Leslie Cooper at tradjazzmama@gmail.com or 504-251-6753

Live Music:

Freddie Blue & The Friendship Circle Band

Cardboard Cowboy

Doyle Cooper Jazz Band

Vendors:

Cryptic Mojo Tie-Dye

Dye By The Sword Tie-Dye

Dye One On Tie-Dye

2 Dye 4 Tie-Dye

Dead on Decatur

Glitter B* Studio

Children's Activities Tent