Margaret Orr's Live Reading of "Scrim" at Dat Dog
Author and former meteorologist Margaret Orr's new children's book will make its debut on November 22 from 12 to 3 p.m., featuring a live reading, drawing demonstrations and, Scrim-themed treats at Dat Dog's Freret Street location.
The book, Scrim: My Tail As Told to Margaret Orr, reimagines the true story of a runaway dog who escaped from two homes and thereafter was roaming the streets of New Orleans alone for months.
Susan Schadt Press published Scrim's story, a company known for its independent New Orleans bookstore and online presence as a bookseller.
Event Activities
Orr and illustrator Matt Rinard come together to promote their book and fundraise for the Krewe of Barkus, which both Orr and Rinard belong to. A percentage of all event purchases will be donated by Dat Dog to Barkus, with individual donations being accepted, as well.
The event will begin with a solo performance by Zack O'Quinn, a Southern Americana singer-songwriter. O'Quinn is New Orleans based and is a member of the local band Southern Tragedy.
Orr's live reading will start at 1 p.m. and Rinard's demonstration on how to draw Scrim will follow at 1:30 p.m.. Guests are invited to explore their creativity and illustrate their own Scrim with provided art supplies, such as paper, markers and crayons.
An encore reading will take place at 2:30 p.m., along with the opportunity for guests to have their copy of Scrim signed.
Dat Dog has arranged a menu inspired by Scrim, including the "Runaway Scrim" hot dog and the "Scrim Spritz" cocktail.
Margaret Orr and Krewe of Barkus
Orr is most famously known during her time as WDSU's chief meteorologist, which she has since retired from. Her position as a public figure resulted in the establishment of the Margaret Orr Fan Club.
While the story of Scrim compliments the Krewe of Barkus' charitable agenda, the krewe is also closely associated with Orr.
Barkus was conceived at a Margaret Orr Fan Club meeting in 1992. The krewe established the Barkus Care Fund, which finances crucial veterinary care for companion animals. Barkus is the only Mardi Gras krewe exclusively focused on promoting the positive imagery and wellbeing of the canine community.
Later, Scrim became the grand marshal of Barkus, in 2025.
The "Tail" of Scrim
While on the loose, Scrim survived a gunshot wound and fearlessly wandered across train tracks and the interstate highway. As his adventures advanced, Scrim gained local, and later national, attention. People were concerned for his wellbeing and many volunteered to foster Scrim.
Upon finding a prospective adoptive family, Scrim again fled for freedom and returned to his transient lifestyle. It was not until New Year's of 2025 that Scrim decided to settle and retire from his exploration of New Orleans.
Many New Orleanians were inspired by his resilience and found amusement in his frequent and absurd breakouts.
