Last weekend the campus was alive with excitement as hundreds of parents, current and incoming students, faculty members, alumni, and Jesuit families gathered to blanket the campus in blue and white for the Blue Jay Bazaar. The event, presented by Reliant Recycling and supported by a host of other generous donors, unfolded under sunny skies with attendees enjoying a wide array of food options, live performances, games, and contests.

The day’s festivities commenced with a ceremonial welcome led by Fr. John Brown, S.J., and the MCJROTC, setting a tone of reverence and Blue Jay Spirit. The Barbershop Blue Jays then performed a beautiful rendition of the Alma Mater. The Bazaar boasted an impressive lineup of entertainment, featuring performances by the The Crescent Kings, The Bucktown All Stars, Jesuit’s own Blue Jay Jazz Band, the Jayettes, Cheerleaders, and the Philelectic Society.

The third annual Laissez Les Bons Temps Blue Jay Cook-Off included seven enthusiastic teams from the Blue Jay community who prepared and served creative and diverse culinary delights. Attendees sampled these offerings and cast votes for their favorite dish, adding a flavorful and competitive twist to the day.

Crème de la Crème Winner: Carbar Catering – Granville Morse ’89 with Shrimp on Da Belly with “J” Sauce.

Krewe de la Crème Winner: The Back-to-Back Cookers – wrestling parents Gina Mire, Diem Nguyen, and Rich Barnett ’94 along with wrestling team members featuring the Smoked Pork Bao with Hoisin BBQ Sauce.

Ryan O’Malley ’05 won the 50/50 raffle, Hilda Fattah received a $500 Southwest Airlines gift card, and Mary Walker took home a new bicycle.

The day concluded with a special Mass in the Chapel of the North American Martyrs celebrated by Fr. Jon Polce, S.J. This Mass offered an opportunity for the community to come together in gratitude and prayer, rounding off a day filled with celebration and fellowship.

Special thanks to the Bazaar chairs, booth captains, and numerous volunteers who contributed to the success of the Bazaar. We extend our gratitude to the following individuals for their leadership and commitment: Bazaar Chairs—Judy Kelley and Sumer Simone, Bazaar Food Chairs—Jessica Hughes and Kelly Uddo, Bazaar Game Chairs—Missy Martin and Gabby Thompson.