Country Roads Magazine "The Gardening Issue" March 2024

6

Plum

Assignment

by James Fox-Smith

Our favorite carnivorous plant shop reopened, the Freyhan school is underway & Grand Isle has 100 new trees.

11

Go green at gardening expos & St. Patty’s parades.

How Louisiana’s specialty crop farmers are contending with the challenges of climate change

by Jordan LaHaye Fontenot

44 THE RADICAL HOPE IN SEED SAVING

An ancient practice takes on new urgency

by Catherine Comeaux

49 A PAWPAW RENAISSANCE

North America’s largest native fruit is having a moment

by Kristy Christiansen

PRAYER FOR JUSTICE AND COMPASSION

Artwork by

Mary Lee Eggart

Over the course of her long career as an artist, Mary Lee Eggart (read more about her work on page 70) has developed her own allegorical system, layering ancient symbolisms upon her renderings of the natural world. In this piece from her 2021 series of works created during the coronavirus pandemic, she sees messages of justice, compassion, and friendship in the woodpecker, the bleeding-heart flower, and the periwinkle. In the passing of food from mother to chick, she sees a generational transmission, a message and a task being passed down: “make your world better than mine was”.

In our 2024 Gardening issue, we fi nd these messages woven through the work of Louisiana vegetable farmers exchanging knowledge and support in a changing world, in dreams of a more sustainable local food system, and in the hope and promise of a seed, and the future it holds.

54

The

Kristy Christiansen

56

Jess Cole

61

62

Inside the mystical Sicilian tradition in Louisiana by Kristy Christiansen

Greenwood Knight

Reflections

FROM THE PUBLISHER

The other day my brother, Tom, sent a photo of his daughters—my nieces— that brought a funny story to mind. Millie (10) and Jessie (8) live in Launceston, Tasmania, where February is the height of the summertime growing season, and the girls were running a plum and apple juice racket off of a card table in front of their house. Tasmania, which is sometimes known as “The Apple Isle,” is great at growing tree fruit, and from an ancient tree in their backyard the girls had picked enough apples to press gallons of juice, which they were flogging paper cups of for $1 apiece. This wasn’t surprising. Tom is an enterprising home gardener, cook, forager and fisherman who grows heirloom vegetables, brews beer, distills his own gin, and once spent all winter building a huge backyard smokehouse for smoking salmon, only to burn down his own shed. I don’t know how central a role Millie and Jessie actually played in pressing the apple juice for their fruit stand, but I suspect Tom’s was the hand behind the curtain.

While apple juice was selling well, the sleeper hit at the girls’ fruit stand was greengage plums. Even in Tasmania, where you can grow just about any-

thing, greengages are special. They are small, emerald green plums that ripen in February, and Millie and Jessie’s backyard has a tree from which they fall like rain. Plump, tart, and perfectly sweet, these things are to die for. It’s too easy to eat them by the bucketful—a mistake those unfamiliar with the impact half a bucket of ripe plums has on the digestive system make at their peril. Last year I learned this while visiting Tom’s family at the peak of greengage season. A leafy, hilly city, Launceston is highly walkable, and I enjoyed walking my nieces to and from school each day. Each morning Millie, Jessie, Daisy the border collie, and I would ramble through quiet residential streets, then cross a single, busy-ish road to reach their school. Being in a school zone, that busy-ish road featured an Australian icon—the lollipop man. The lollipop man or lady is a (usually elderly) town employee tasked with ensuring that kids (and their attendant parents, dogs, and/or uncles) safely cross busy streets on their way to school. Approach a designated crosswalk at the beginning or end of a school day holding the hand of an eight-year-old and you’ll be bailed up by a cheery senior citizen decked in high-visibility safety clothing and clutching a seven-foot pole with a “STOP” sign on top (the eponymous ‘lollipop’). Then this knight-in-shiningneon will march into the road brandishing said lollipop, bringing traffic to a

halt so everyone crosses safely. The job requirements are clear: a cheery disposition, an ability to command obedience from motorists, and crucially, an unswerving commitment to being at one’s post for the hour coinciding with the start and end of each school day.

While it doesn’t pay much, the job of the lollipop man or lady is not without benefits, among which is the opportunity to serve as a good shepherd to the little kids you help each day. As a result, the friendly lollipop man often finds himself showered with gifts. Plum season is no exception. One morning during my visit, Millie and Jessie filled a grocery store bag with ripe greengages to give to their teachers. As we approached the crosswalk, the lollipop man’s customary smile faded when he realized what was in the bag Jessie was proffering. “Ohhhh, no! Not those again!” he cried, backing away. Appar-

ently, one morning the previous week the girls had left a grocery bag full of greengages with the lollipop man, who, not having encountered them before, proceeded to eat the whole bag. By the time school let out that afternoon the effects were making themselves urgently apparent, and as the girls and their dad approached the crosswalk, the lollipop man recognized both the source of his distress, and a solution. With a cry of “Hold this!” he thrust his STOP sign and high-viz cap into my brother’s hands and ran wildly in the direction of the school restrooms, leaving Tom seeing other people’s kids across the street and the girls contemplating a change in their greengage distribution strategy.

The moral of the story? Share your harvest widely. This month’s Gardening issue, with its crop of stories about seed savers, sustainable gardening practices, and small farmers joining forces in the face of climate change, is our effort to do that. We hope its stories will inspire you to get outside, dig in the dirt, and dream of big harvests to come. Happy spring.

—James Fox-Smith, publisher james@countryroadsmag.com

CR Publisher James, pictured with nieces Millie and Jessie, and their mom.

Freyhan, Finally

SEVENTY-FOUR YEARS AFTER CLOSING TO STUDENTS, AND ALMOST FIFTY SINCE EFFORTS TO REVITALIZE IT BEGAN, WORK TO RESTORE ST. FRANCISVILLE’S HISTORIC FREYHAN SCHOOL IS UNDERWAY AT LAST.

At the western end of Prosperity Street in St. Francisville’s historic district, a visit to the old Julius Freyhan School building reveals hsomething a lot of people had given up on ever seeing: orange construction fencing. Seventy-four years after the circa 1907 building closed to students and almost fifty years since efforts to revitalize it commenced, the restoration of the Freyhan School is finally underway. In January, contractor Cangelosi Ward commenced a year-long, $4.2 million rehabilitation project that, when completed, will transform the historic structure into a cultural and conference center and a museum of early education for West Feliciana Parish.

A school has stood on the Prosperity Street site since 1905, the year after prosperous Jewish merchant and local civic leader Julius Freyhan died, leaving $8,000 to build St. Francisville’s first public school. It was a three-story brick building, the upper floors of which commanded superb views of the Mississippi. When the original building burned in 1907, a near-identical replacement was rebuilt, and it continued to serve as a school until 1950. By 1975, with the original building deteriorating, a group of former students including Billie Magee, Fran McVea, and Mott Plettinger launched a campaign to restore the Freyhan School, and the non-profit Freyhan Foundation was born. By 2005, Anne Bennett had joined the Foundation, and promptly got the building included on the Louisiana Trust for

Historic Preservation’s Most Endangered Places list.

In 2007 while serving as board chair, Bennett was diagnosed with cancer. On her deathbed, she extracted a promise from her friend, Nancy Vinci, to see the renovation to completion. In the years since, Vinci has made the Freyhan restoration project her life’s work, heading tireless efforts by the all-volunteer board to secure state capital outlay funding, and establishing the annual

100 New Trees on the Chenier

REPLANTING GRAND ISLE’S HISTORIC CANOPY

Centuries ago, the Chitimacha people who made their home in the fishing paradise we now know as Grand Isle came together to plant oak trees. They planted trees for all the reasons people across the millennia have: for their beauty, as a home and life source to birds and other wildlife, and for protection.

Those oak trees grew, stretching into the iconic canopy that has so defined the landscape of Grand Isle, and all of the people who have lived there since. Standing tall, their roots gripping the ground beneath them, the trees in no small sense have helped hold the island together as it weathered storm after storm, for hundreds of years. But when Hurricane Ida landed on the island in 2021, it was described as one of America’s most powerful storms to date—leaving no corner of the island unscathed. And finally, the trees came down, too.

On January 27, the Indigenous descendants of the island’s original inhabitants came together with volunteers and local nonprofit organizations to plant again, putting one hundred new oak trees into the ground. The event was coordinated by the Grand Isle Garden Club, Restore Grand Isle, and Restore or Retreat—all organizations dedicated to restoring and protecting the vulnerable environments of and around the Louisiana coast. Recognizing the importance of Grand Isle’s oak forests to its future, the Garden Club and Restore Grand Isle have made replanting a major tenet of their operations since Hurricane Ida. Restore and Retreat, a coastal advocacy group that has been working extensively with Louisiana’s Indigenous tribes on various sustainability projects, played a big part in coordinating the event with the Lafourche Band of the Biloxi Chitimacha. The project was funded by a grant from Keep Louisiana Beautiful and the office of Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser.

Quincy Verdun, Chief of the Lafourche Band of the Biloxi Chitimacha, reflected on the legacy of the cycle, “Today marks a significant event as our tribe put our hands in the dirt, just as our ancestors did centuries ago, planting new oaks to help protect Grand Isle from erosion caused by storms, protecting this beloved island for future generations to come.”

—Jordan LaHaye Fontenot

Walker Percy Weekend literary festival as a fund-raising vehicle to support the restoration fund. In the eight years of its existence, the Walker Percy Weekend has contributed more than $250,000 towards the effort, but it wasn’t until 2019 when, after years of lobbying, then-Governor John Bel Edwards announced the allocation of $4.3 million in capital outlay funding to rehabilitate the Freyhan School, that this fifty-year-long dream began to feel like a reality.

That reality will take most of 2024 to be fully realized. According to current Freyhan Foundation Board President Betsy Levasseur, the restoration will bring the building new electrical, plumbing, roofing, and HVAC systems, while preserving as many of the original structure’s tall windows, magnificent woodwork, and elegant, top-floor auditorium—as possible. When complete, the Freyhan School will contain meeting spaces, breakout rooms, artist’s studios, a 150-seat performance theatre, and a museum interpreting the history of public education in West Feliciana Parish. Hollis Milton, Superintendant of the West Feliciana Parish School Board, which owns the building, acknowledged the critical role that the Freyhan Foundation has played in securing the funds required to restore the historic landmark. “We have enjoyed our partnership with the Freyhan Foundation and look forward to working with them, not only to restore the building, but also to build a vision for how the facility can serve our community,” he said. Levasseur concurred, noting plans for a future cooperative endeavor agreement between the Freyhan Foundation and the West Feliciana School Board, which will make the building available for cultural events, conferences, weddings, live performances, and other community happenings. The hope is for construction to be completed prior to December 30, 2024—Nancy Vinci’s ninetieth birthday.

—James Fox-Smith

Rendering of the Freyhan building courtesy of Holly & Smith Architects

The Return of We Bite

In 2019, when Carlos Detres and his wife Aryn first opened We Bite Rare & Unusual Plants, their carnivorous plant-focused nursery in New Orleans, they were only supposed to operate from that space for three months. Three months turned into a year and a half on St. Roch, catering to New Orleans gardeners and plant enthusiasts with a taste for plants with a taste for flesh.

In 2022, Carlos and Aryn unfortunately decided to close their brick and mortar. Carlos returned to his career as a portrait and fine art photographer, occasionally setting up We Bite pop-ups around the city.

Eventually, in a chain of serendipitous events, their landlord in the Marigny offered them use of a building, and also allowed Detres to make modifications to the space that would maximize its use as an unconventional nursery. As a result, We Bite is set to reopen in a new permanent location on March 2.

“It’s exciting to dream a unique experience worthy of this beautiful city and the people within,” Detres said. “It’s been a tough four years since the pandemic, but this moment—bringing back the store and the chance to be around our beloved customers—has been a nice reward.”

Among the many things that have changed since We Bite was first established is the addition of Aryn and Carlos’s now four-year-old daughter. Now, she’s four years old, and eager to help her parents revive their passion project. “She's excited about working with me at the store,” Detres gushed. “She wasn’t yet born when We Bite started, so it’s both beautiful and surreal that she’ll

be along with her mom and me on this journey.”

Alongside his wife and daughter, Detres looks forward to helping his fellow eccentric-leaning green thumbs find their perfect(ly unusual) plant companion—something he thinks is more accessible than ever, as the market for rare plants has shifted, making once

expensive plants much more affordable. “I can’t wait to share each plant’s story,” said Detres. We Bite reopens March 2 at 1042 Franklin Avenue in New Orleans. Find them on Instagram @webitenola

—Alexandra Kennon

The carnivorous plant, Drosera prolifera. Courtesy of We Bite.

MARCH 2024

AS SPRING WARMS THINGS UP, HERE ARE PLENTY OF REASONS TO GET OUTSIDE, BE INSPIRED, AND STRETCH TOWARDS THE SUN

UNTIL MAR 8th

LOCAL HISTORY

LEPROSY: THE SEPARATING SICKNESS AT TULANE

New Orleans , Louisiana

A new exhibition on display at the Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine explores Louisiana's fascinating and troubled history of leprosy. Presented by the Friends of Carville Historic District, the photo exhibition Leprosy: e Separating Sickness documents through photographs the many men, women, and children who were hospitalized—often for the remainder of their lives—at the USPH Hospital in Carville, Louisiana. Most of the photographs displayed were taken by Johnny Harmon, a professional photographer who was also a patient/resident at the hospital, and shine light on the lives and humanity of the individuals who were isolated on the compound that today contains the National Hansen's Disease Museum. sph.tulane.edu.

UNTIL APR 17th

BAYOU SCENES

LOUISIANA PERCEPTIONS AT THE MANSHIP GALLERY

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

Local artists o er their diverse interpretations of Louisiana's identity in a new exhibition on display at the Manship Gallery at the Shaw Center. Artworks in a variety of mediums ranging from landscapes to abstracts and beyond will speak to the Bayou State's unique ecosystem, culture, and heritage. manshiptheatre.org.

UNTIL MAY 11th

PAINTING POETRY

IN MEDIAS RES: HOW ONE STORY BECOMES ANOTHER AT THE ACA Lafayette , Louisiana

A new exhibition in the Main Gallery of the Acadiana Center for the Arts places local artwork in dialogue with former Louisiana Poet Laureate Darrell

Bourque's poetry. Besides Bourque's poems, artworks by artists Megan Barra, Karen Bourque, Leroy Evans, Gloria Fiero, and many others will be presented. acadianacenterforthearts.org.

UNTIL JUL 13th

BEYOND BLUE DOGS SITTING WITH GEORGE RODRIGUE AT THE HILLIARD

Lafayette , Louisiana

Celebrating the impact of Lafayette's University of Louisiana-Lafayette on one of our region's most beloved artists, George Rodrigue—the Hilliard Art Museum presents the retrospective exhibition Sitting with George Rodrigue. The show will feature many of the celebrated Louisiana artist's iconic images from his Cajun and Blue Dog series, including the famous "Aioli Dinner"—which is currently displayed for the very first time in Lafayette. hilliardmuseum.org.

Along with excuses to embrace our Irish heritage (or someone else's) on St. Patrick's Day and to eat too much chocolate at Easter, March brings us spring planting season. On page 37, nd our list of gardening expos, plant sales, and ower shows to help inspire you to get your hands dirty and grow something new. Photo by Paige Cody.

Events

Beginning March 1st - March 2nd

UNTIL SEP 22nd

MUSICAL MEDICINE

IMPROVISATION: THE ART AND HEALING POWER OF JAZZ AT LASM

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

The Louisiana Art & Science Museum's latest exhibition in The Republic Finance Gallery not only celebrates the history of jazz music, but its positive impact on humanity. Artworks by Claudia Hayden, Herman Leonard, Brandon Lewis, and Chuck Stewart were curated for their distinctive impressions of the genre, and the ways they highlights jazz's therapeutic properties. lasm. org. •

MAR 1st

LOCAL CELEBRITIES

RED CARPET GALA

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

David Foster and Katherine McPhee, the special guests and entertainers of the Red Carpet Gala, need no introduction. Join them for an exclusive evening at the Manship Theatre where they will perform their viral Instagram show, followed by a ninety minute reception. Tickets are

available through sponsorship opportunities only at this time. manshiptheatre.org. •

MAR 1st

BUZZY BASHES

WYES SPRING FLING

Mandeville , Louisiana

Experience the blossoming of spring at the WYES Northshore Spring Fling hosted at the historic home of Jen and Seth Smiley in Mandeville. Indulge in Acquistapace's Markets' wine selection and delectable cheeses, alongside a specialty cocktail, the Bee’s Knees. The evening will also include live jazz by the Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts, ballet performances Ballet Apetrei, floral arrangements, and an exclusive auction featuring jewelry, art, getaways and much more. $150 to join the patron party commencing at 5 pm; $100 for the event at 6 pm. wyes.org. •

MAR 1st - MAR 2nd

HOT RODS R.O.D.S. STREETROD SHOW

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

Get revved up for the forty-sixth annual R.O.D.S. Streetrod show, presented by

the Ramblin' Oldies of Denham Springs Car Club. Hosted at Gerry Lane Cadillac dealership with the nearby Hampton Inn as the host hotel, this two-day event brings cars from across the nation, featuring over 100 pre-1949 street rods on display. Enjoy family fun with free admission, an automotive swap meet, food vendors, and live oldies music while supporting the Hospice Foundation of Baton Rouge. ramblinoldies.com. •

MAR 1st - MAR 3rd

GET READY

AIN'T TOO PROUD: THE TEMPTATIONS AT THE SAENGER New Orleans , Louisiana

Watch the greatest hits of The Temptations burst to life in this electric jukebox musical coming to the Saenger. Tickets and showtimes at saengernola.com. •

MAR 1st - MAR 16th

FEMALE VOICES CHANTEUSE: CELEBRATING WOMEN IN MUSIC

New Orleans , Louisiana

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is celebrating New Orleans women in music with their weekend concert series Chanteuse at The George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center on N. Rampart Street. The lineup is:

March 1: Susan Cowsill

March 2: Mikayla Braun

March 8: Margie Perez

March 9: Dawn Richard

March 15: Anna Moss

March 16: Tarriona Ball Poetry

All shows start at 8 pm and are $10. jazzandheritage.org/events. •

MAR 1st - MAR 17th

ECLECTIC PERFORMANCES

MARCH AT THE GRAND OPERA HOUSE OF THE SOUTH Crowley, Louisiana

Th is month, the Grand Opera House of the South brings you a variety of new performances:

March 1–3: Steel Magnolias

March 4: Artrageous

March 15–17: Tinker Bell by NDHS Drama Club

For showtimes and tickets, visit thegrandoperahouse.org. •

MAR 1st - MAR 24th

GOING GREEN

ST. PATRICK'S DAY IN NEW ORLEANS AND ST. BERNARD New Orleans , Louisiana

Cabbages, carrots, onions—and maybe even a moonpie or two—are the booty at these parades. Following close on the

TODDLER THURSDAY

First Thursday of each month / 10 AM

ACCESS FOR ALL DAY

First Sunday of each month / 1–4 PM

⊲ Free

OPENING RECEPTION & PANEL DISCUSSION

Thursday, April 18 at 6 PM

⊲ Celebrate the exhibitions:

Interior Space: Photographs by Roland Miller & Paolo Nespoli

April 8–July 28, 2024

Fierce Planets: Work from the Studio Art Quilt Associates

April 18–July 28, 2024

(Opening Reception Thursday, April 18)

One Stitch at a Time:

Southern Vernacular Quilts

March 21–June 23, 2024

Coming Home: Geoffrey Beene – Southern Reflections

April 26–August 30, 2024

(Curated by the LSU Textile & Costume Museum)

heels of Mardi Gras, who needs more beads anyway? Catch ingredients for your stew at these area parades:

March 1

Irish Channel Practice March: Watch the paraders get into the spirit with a practice run, held in Jackson Square at noon.

March 15

Irish Channel Block Party: Start the weekend off right with an old fashioned street party. Free music and entertainment, with food and beverages available for purchase at Annunciation Park. All proceeds benefit St. Michael's Special School. 1 pm.

Downtown Irish Club Parade: Catch this popular downtown parade as it rolls from the corner of Burgundy and Piety in the Bywater, proceeds up Royal across Esplanade to Decatur, then up Canal to Bourbon—with several pit stops. 7 pm.

March 16

Parasol's Block Party Celebration: Music, green beer, food, and plenty of holiday surprises in the midst of a block party atmosphere at 3rd and Constance. 10 am–8 pm.

Tracy's St. Paddy's Day Party: The offi cial parade-viewing party, at 2604 Magazine—complete with green beer, corned beef, and cabbage. 11 am ‘til.

Irish Channel Parade: Get your green on and head to the Irish Channel where the Irish Channel St. Patrick's Day Club will hold its Annual Mass and Parade celebration. Mass is at noon at St. Mary's Assumption Church (corner of Constance and Josephine streets) followed by the parade (starting at Napoleon Avenue and Tchoupitlouas) at 1 pm.

Italian-American St. Joseph's Parade: The Italian American Club celebrates the feast of St. Joseph with a parade through the French Quarter. Starts at the intersection of Convention Center Boulevard and Girod Street, with floats, marching bands, and a whole lot of guys dressed in tuxedos. 6 pm.

March 17

Metairie Road St. Patrick's Day Parade: This annual parade begins in front of Rummel High School on Severn Avenue, goes down Severn to Metairie Road, then Metairie Road to the parish line. Noon.

March 24

Louisiana Irish-Italian Parade: This multicultural tradition rolls out all the stops along Metairie's Veterans Highway route. Noon. stpatricksdayneworleans.com. •

MAR 1st - MAR 28th

NEXT GEN CREATIVES

YOUNG ARTISTS EXHIBITION AT HRAC

Hammond , Louisiana

To celebrate National Youth Art Month, the Hammond Regional Arts Center

presents an exhibition showcasing the talented young artists of Tangipahoa Parish and the work they have been creating under the tutelage of local art instructors. Meanwhile, selected works by visual art majors at Southeastern Louisiana University will be on display in the Mezzanine Gallery, too. The opening reception will be from 5 pm–8 pm. hammondarts.org. •

MAR 1st - APR 20th

COLORFUL CANVASES

KIMBERLY MEADOWLARK EXHIBITION AT FRAMEWORKS Baton Rouge , Louisiana

Join Frameworks Gallery for the opening reception of painter, photographer, and musician Kimberly Meadowlark's exhibition at Frameworks Gallery. Reception from 5 pm–8 pm. Free. fwgallery.net. •

MAR 1st - JAN 2025

SPEAKEASIES & MOONSHINERS REBELLIOUS SPIRITS: PROHIBITION AND RESISTANCE IN THE SOUTH AT NOMA New Orleans , Louisiana

New Orleans Museum of Art presents the exhibition Rebellious Spirits: Prohibition and Resistance in the South, which features works from NOMA's permanent collection alongside historical artifacts and memorabilia that shines a light on the way prohibition engendered a sense of community throughout the South as people navigated the tumult of the Eighteenth Amendment. For more information and museum hours, visit noma.org. •

MAR 2nd

RARE TO WELL-DONE

HERE'S THE BEEF COOK-OFF Opelousas , Louisiana

Sink your teeth into the Annual Here’s the Beef Cook-Off at the Yambilee Building in Opelousas, where pit masters and chefs showcase their best beef dishes. Expect to savor delicious offerings from brisket to beef tongue, with a side of fais-dodo. 8:30 am–noon. Contact Jay Guidry for more information at (337) 351–1763, or visit the Here's the Beef Facebook Page. •

MAR 2nd

HOLY TRINITIES

GULF COAST BEER & BACON (& CHOCOLATE) FESTIVAL Gulfport , Mississippi

Sample beer, bacon, and chocolate dishes from over forty local restaurants and breweries at this Gulfport festival, which is an official qualifying event for the World Food Championships. Vote for your favorite beer, bacon, chocolate, and cocktail. 7 pm–10 pm. $55, $80

Events

Beginning March 2nd - March 20th

VIP (gets you in early at 6 pm). gcbeerbaconfest.com. •

MAR 2nd

CHIPS & CHEERS

ZAPP'S INTERNATIONAL BEERFEST

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

The cups runneth over during the LSU Rural Life Museum's best-lubricated annual event, which definitely calls for designating a driver. The annual Zapp’s International Beer Festival brings tastings of more than two hundred local, domestic, and international beers and ales to the grounds of the Rural Life Museum, plus more than a few home brews, which always end up being a festival highlight. Nonalcoholic beverages will be available for those (heroic) designated drivers. Bottoms up, because all proceeds benefit the Rural Life Museum. Don't forget your I.D.—participants must be twenty-one, for obvious reasons. 3 pm–6 pm general admission. $45; $20 for designated drivers; $65 for early admission. Tickets available at bontempstix.com. •

MAR 2nd GOOD EATS

JXN FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

Jackson, Mississippi

Hosted by Season 34 Chopped winner Nick Wallace and Iron Chef 's Cat Cora— both natives of the festival's home city of Jackson—the JXN Food & Wine Festival promises tastings from over twenty local and regional chefs, samplings of wine, beer, spirits, and mocktails; a demo stage, and live music. Doors open at 6:30 pm, with early VIP arrival at 6 pm (which also includes an exclusive VIP area with hors d'oeuvres, an open bar, dedicated restrooms, and a celebrity chef meet and greet). A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Mississippi Restaurant Association Education Foundation. Tickets start at $85. jxnfoodandwine.com. •

MAR 2nd

BEHIND THE BALLET

LES BALLET DE MONTE CARLO'S LAC (SWAN LAKE)

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans Ballet Association invites you to an exclusive behind the scenes

A retrospective tracing Louisiana artist Tina Girouard's eclectic career will be displayed at the Ogden Museum beginning March 16. See listing on page 28. Gerard E. Murrell, "On the Cane Break: Portrait of Tina Girouard," Cecilia, Louisiana, 1976, photograph, image courtesy of the Estate of Tina Girouard, Artist Rights Society (ARS), New York. Courtesy of the Ogden Museum.

performance of Les Ballets de Monte Carlo's LAC (Swan Lake) at the Mahalia Jackson Theater. Experience the magic of stagecraft fi rsthand as NOBA unveils the world of ballet preparation, from set changes to dancers warming up. The evening includes an open bar, gourmet food, and enchanting performances. Come dressed in your most elegant feathers. $350. 6:15 pm. nobadance.com. •

MAR 2nd

ARTWORK & OAK TREES SHADOWS ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR

New Iberia , Louisiana

Among the giant oaks on the winding banks of the Teche, attendees at this twice-annual arts & crafts fair can pick up one-of-a-kind items from over one hundred vendors from around the state. From crocheted items to bath products and tea-dyed chenille bunnies, this market has it all. And of course—for what fair would be complete without it—there will be plenty of food, drink, and dessert. 9 am–4 pm. Admission is $5 per person ($3 for children ages six to seventeen; under six get in free). shadowsontheteche.org. •

MAR 2nd

MEALS ON WHEELS

LOUISIANA FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL

Slidell , Louisiana

Round up your friends and your chairs and head to the Harbor Center to be overwhelmed with tasty options on wheels—plus live music, vendors, and more at this outdoor festival. Doors are open from 11 am–3 pm. Free. harborcenter.org. •

MAR 2nd

CORN(HOLE) & POTATOES POTATO COOK-OFF & CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

Parks , Louisiana

Head to Cecile Rousseau Poché Memorial Park for the third annual Potato Cook-off and Cornhole Tournament, featuring live music, auctions, fun jumps, and more. 7 am–7 pm. $10, $5 for children. cajuncountry.org. •

MAR 2nd

NATURE MEETS LITERACY READING ON THE RIVER Natchitoches , Louisiana

The Service League of Natchitoches will host Reading on the River, an annual community literacy event promoting the importance and enjoyment of reading outside of the classroom. The free, fun event for pre-k to fi fth grade children includes reading-related activities, games, and music for children and families. Each

child who attends will be able to take home at least one free new or used book. 10 am–1 pm on the banks of the Cane River. natchitocheschamber.com. •

MAR 2nd

VIVE LE FRANÇAISE

LE GRAND PIQUE-NIQUE

Port Allen , Louisiana

Join the West Baton Rouge Museum for CODOFIL’s annual Le Grand PiqueNique, the largest statewide celebration of French Immersion education in Louisiana. Hosted by Baton Rouge Foreign Language Academic Immersion Magnet (FLAIM) and Westdale Middle Magnet schools, this festival celebrates French language and culture with activities, food, music, games, and competitions including a French spelling bee, poster and comic strip contests, field games, and more. 10 am–2 pm. Free. westbatonrougemusuem.org. •

MAR 2nd

WHO'S LINE IS IT?

IMPROV RUMBLE

Lafayette , Louisiana

Silverbacks Improv Theatre promises you a night of uproarious laughter and spontaneous comedy at Wonderland Center for Performing Arts with their Improv Rumble 2024. Th is event will host teams of competing improvisers, and you get to be the judge. Audience members will also have the opportunity to submit suggestions for the challenges. 7:30 pm. $18. silverbacksimprov.com. •

MAR 2nd - MAR 3rd

THROWBACKS

LOUISIANA RETRO CON Morgan City, Louisiana

Billed as Louisiana's one and only video game convention, this event brings nerd culture enthusiasts together through a vibrant showcase of all things gaming— not to mention local artists, comic book authors, and vendors. 10:30 am–6:30 pm. louisianaretroconvention.com. •

MAR 2nd - MAR 20th

CREATIVE OPPORTUNITIES

ARTS COUNCIL OF POINTE COUPEE ARTIST WORKSHOPS

New Roads , Louisiana

Th is spring, the Arts Council of Pointe Coupee is hosting six artisan workshops, inviting patrons to try their hands at a range of artforms with the guidance of professionals. Find the schedule below: March 2: Angela Campbell on Mixed Media/Altered books and journals. 9 am–3 pm in the Annex Room. March 6: Interior designer Hilary Meche on Flower Arranging. 5 pm–7 pm in the Annex Room.

Events

Beginning March 2nd - March 6th

March 7: Dee LaCombe on acrylic painting (False River Sunset). 4 pm–6 pm at the Innis Library.

March 9: Katherine Neal on cookie decorating for children. 9 am–11 am in the Annex Room.

March 14: Dee Lacombe on acrylic painting (A Cajun Paradise). 4 pm–6 pm at the Innis Library.

March 20: Katherine Neal on cookie decorating for adults. 6 pm–8 pm in the Annex Room.

Registration for library sessions is through the librarians, who can be reached at (225) 492-2632. To register for other workshops or for more information, email Gale Roy at roygaleb@bellsouth.net. Details at artscouncilofpointecoupee.org. •

MAR 2nd - MAY 26th

HUNTRESSES

SOEURS DE LA CHASSE— SISTERS OF THE HUNT AT NUNU Arnaudville , Louisiana

Soeurs de la Chasse is a celebration of sisterhood and breaking free from societal expectations shot though the lens of

photographer and filmmaker Camille Farrah Lenain. This new exhibit at the NUNU Arts and Culture collective explores the lives of female hunters from rural France to South Louisiana, and captures how women forge deep bonds with each other and the land, while embracing the predator within. The opening reception takes place from 5 pm–10 pm and features live music by Mary Jane Broussard & Friends and The Daiquiri Queens. The exhibit will be on display Wednesday–Sunday 10 am–2 pm. nunuaccollective.com. •

MAR 3rd & MAR 10th

ART ASKING QUESTIONS

WHO ARE YOU? AN INQUIRY THROUGH ART WITH THERESE KNOWLES

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

Artist Therese Knowles will facilitate a two-part workshop at The Red Shoes that will explore various techniques to help you create small compositions answering the question, “Who are YOU?” 2 pm– 3:30 pm. $40. theredshoes.org. •

MAR 3rd

FRETS & STRINGS INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT AT THE MANSHIP

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

International Guitar Night, happening at the Manship Theatre, promises a mesmerizing performance as it celebrates its twenty-fourth season with a lineup featuring Luca Stricagnoli, Thu Le, Marco Pereira, and Minnie Marks. From classical to Brazilian rhythm, these global acoustic guitar virtuosos use the acoustic guitar and diverse techniques to perform sounds from all around the world. 7:30 pm. $56–$66. manshiptheatre.org. •

MAR 3rd

HOPPY OCCASIONS OLD STATE CAPITOL EASTER EGG ROLL

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

Celebrate the season with the second annual Easter Egg Roll at the Old State Capitol. The festivity includes races, categorized by age, egg decorating, and more family-friendly activities inspired by the White House tradition. Museum doors will also be open for exploration, for Free First Sunday. 1 pm–4 pm. louisianaoldstatecapitol.org. •

MAR 3rd

SIPS & NIBBLES UNCORKED FOOD & WINE SHOWCASE

Saint Francisville , Louisiana

Enjoy the best of St. Francisville cuisine, courtesy of the West Feliciana Chamber of Commerce, which will host an exciting "Uncorked Food & Wine Showcase" at St. Francisville's newest event venue, The Mallory. The event will feature delicious food, fun cocktails, wine, and desserts from local restaurants, bars, and specialty food boutiques. 5 pm–7 pm. $75, $60 for Chamber Members. business.westfelicianachamber.org. •

MAR 3rd

WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH BLACK HERITAGE ROOM LECTURE SERIES

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Law professor Angela A. Allen-Bell will give a thought-provoking presentation at the Scotlandville Branch Library. In her presentation, Incarcerating the Speech, Expressions, and Messages of Black Women, Professor Allen-Bell will shed light on the overlooked obstacles faced by Black women in their fight against systemic injustice and the complexities of the prison system. 3 pm. ebrpl.com. •

MAR 3rd

LOCAL CELEBRITIES

CELEBRITY READING ROOM AT THE LSU MUSEUM OF ART

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Join the the Celebrity Reading Room at the LSU Museum of Art, a special event hosting local celebrities sharing stories and their favorite books, and also an opportunity to explore art, engage in activities, and enjoy the company of esteemed guest readers. Notable speakers of the day include MayorPresident Sharon Weston-Broome, Constable Terrica L. Williams, State Representative Vanessa Caston LaFleur, and others. 1 pm–4 pm. Free. lsumoa.org. •

MAR 4th

REMEMBERING RODRIGUE

BLUE DOG: LIFE & LEGACY ART TOUR WITH WENDY RODRIGUE Franklin, Louisiana

Teche Theatre for the Performing Arts will proudly host the Blue Dog: Life & Legacy Art Tour with Wendy Rodrigue, who will be offering audiences a talk about the legacy of Louisiana artist George Rodrigue. 6 pm. Free. Reserve your tickets at cajuncoast.com. •

MAR 5th

WORTHY CAUSES

STAND FOR JUSTICE ACADIANA CELEBRATION

Lafayette, Louisiana

Enjoy a lovely evening of auctions, hors d’oeuvres, live music, and more—all to benefit Innocence Project New Orleans (IPNO), a nonprofit celebrating twentythree years of working to free innocent individuals who have been wrongly sentenced to life in prison. With special recognition of Senator Gerald Boudreaux's dedication to justice, this event happening at Lafayette's downtown convention center, will include silent and live auctions, an open bar, passed hors d’oeuvres from La Pizzeria. Hear inspiring stories from IPNO clients Larry Moses and Barney Holt, plus view a short film about the Louisiana Law Enforcement Accountability Database. 5:30 pm–8:30 pm. IPNO.com •

MAR 5th - APR 1st

CREATIVE WOMEN ASSOCIATED WOMEN IN THE ARTS EXHIBITION

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

The talented women who make up the Associated Women in the Arts are hosting their annual member exhibition at the Shell Gallery. An opening reception featuring live music,

commentary from the artists, wine, and light refreshments will be held from 5:30 pm–7:30 pm on March 14. Free. associatedwomeninthearts.com. •

MAR 6th

BLUE NOTES

RIVER CITY JAZZ MASTERS

CONCERT SERIES

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

The Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge's annual series attracting some of the world's most talented jazz artists welcomes the Blue Note Anniversary Tour to the Manship Theatre stage this spring. $28–$48. 7:30 pm. artsbr.org/rcjm. •

MAR 6th

MOVING VERSES POETRY READING WITH CATHARINE SAVAGE BROSMAN

Port Allen, Louisiana

Experience the enchanting poetry of Catharine Savage Brosman at the West Baton Rouge Museum. Brosman, a distinguished American poet and former professor at Tulane University, will read from her recent collection, Aerosols , which features verses spanning subjects from Louisiana landscapes to reflections on life. Signed copies will also be available for purchase. Noon. Free. westbatonrougemusuem.org. •

MAR 6th - MAR 10th

PLUCKIN' & STRUMMIN' DANNY BARKER BANJO & GUITAR FESTIVAL

New Orleans, Louisiana

Danny Barker—famed New Orleans jazz banjoist, singer, guitarist, ukulele player, and author—made a lasting impact on the longevity of jazz in New Orleans. His work with the Fairview Baptist Church Brass Band produced generations of new jazz talent, including Wynton & Bradford Marsalis, Shannon Powell, Lucien Barbarin, Dr. Michael White, and others. Throughout Barker's career, he managed to record with the likes of Jelly Roll Morton, Charlie Parker, Dexter

Events

Beginning March 6th - March 8th

Gordon, Baby Dodds, Cab Calloway, Lucky Millinder, Benny Carter, and many more. The Danny Barker Banjo and Guitar Festival was established to preserve the importance of art, education, and culture. This five-day feast of Danny Barker's greatest wish happens at a handful of venues across New Orleans, and features clinics, a birthday celebration for Barker, many live performances, a parade, panel discussions, film screenings, and more. Some events are free; others have a cost for admission. Details at dannybarkerfestival.com. •

MAR 6th - MAR 21st

PAGE TURNERS

AUTHOR TALKS AT THE LIBRARY

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

The East Baton Rouge Parish Library is carrying on its Author Talk virtual series, connecting bestselling authors with their readers through live online Q&A sessions.

March 6: Dinners with Ruth with Nina Totenberg, 3 pm.

March 14: Murtagh with Christopher Paolini, 3 pm.

March 21: The Song of Achilles with Madeline Miller, 6 pm. ebrpl.com. •

MAR 7th

WINE & CHEESE

CHARCUTERIE CLASS & WINE FLIGHT AT THE RENAISSANCE

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Join Chef Jason Hebert and Executive Sous Noah Lissard at the Renaissance Hotel for an evening of wine and cheese, where you'll learn the art of crafting the perfect charcuterie board. Choose between a red or white flight of wines to loosen your creative inhibitions. Each ticket includes one board and one flight, and the board goes home with you. 6:30 pm. $75. bontempstix.com. •

MAR 7th - MAR 16th

NEW NARRATORS

MOTHER OF THE MAID BY RED MAGNOLIA THEATER COMPANY Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Mother of the Maid, presented by Red Magnolia Theater Company, offers a

unique perspective on the Joan of Arc story by focusing on the lesser-known viewpoint of her mother, Isabelle Romee. The play delves into Isabelle's life as she navigates the tumultuous events of medieval France. Directed by Emmy award–winner C. Jaye Miller, this play will be premiering at St. Margaret's Episcopal Church and promises to enthrall audiences with its poignant portrayal of faith, sacrifice, and maternal love. Thursdays–Saturdays 7:30 pm. $35; $25 for students. redmagnoliatc.org. •

MAR 7th - MAR 17th

COMEDIES OF MANNERS STRAUSS THEATRE PRESENTS THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST Monroe, Louisiana

The society of late Victorian London comes to life at Strauss Theatre Center this month, presenting Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest. 7 pm Thursday–Saturday, 2 pm Sunday. Tickets at strausstc.com. •

MAR 7th - MAR 23rd

CREATIVE HUBS

MARCH AT THE ACADIANA CENTER FOR ARTS

Lafayette, Louisiana

From comedy shows to a student art market, this month the Acadiana Center

for Arts has something in store for all types of creatives:

March 7: Paula Poundstone —ACA's Comedy Club presents Paula Poundstone, a regular on NPR's comedy news quiz, Wait Wait ... Don't Tell Me! 7:30 pm.

March 9: Creative Acadiana Artist

Talk—Sara Hardin: Unconscious Places —Sara Hardin will discuss her exhibit, Unconscious Place, featuring oil paintings that capture the architecture and interior spaces of New Orleans. 4:30 pm.

March 13: Creative Acadiana Legacy

Planning: Archiving Best Practices for the Visual Artist —Hagit Barkai, assistant professor of art at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, will be offering insights into effective methods and systems for preserving, showcasing, and documenting your artistic career. 5:30 pm.

March 14: Rising Stars Fife & Drum Band with Shardé Thomas and Megan Constantin —Embark on a musical journey through Mississippi's Delta blues with The Evolution of Drum & Fife Music featuring Shardé Thomas and Megan Constantin. 7:30 pm.

March 17: Alexander Hülshoff

See guest artist and German cellist Alexander Hülshoff perform selections from Schubert and Bach with the ASO Chamber Ensemble. 2 pm.

March 20: Creative Acadiana Artist

Round Up: Origami —In this month's meetup, join Tshy Cross for an exploration of traditional Origami, while networking with fellow artists in the community. 5:30 pm.

March 23: St. Landry Parish Student Arts Expo— Honoring the creativity of student–artists across St. Landry Parish, this is a festival showcasing the diverse talents of Acadiana's youth with outdoor performances by school bands and art exhibits. There will also be a student artist market, offering original artwork. 10 am at the St. Landry Parish Courthouse Square. acadianacenterforthearts.org. •

MAR 7th - MAR 24th

TRUE CRIME MUSICALS

IPAL PRESENTS

CATCH ME IF YOU CAN

New Iberia, Louisiana

Iberia Performing Arts League's latest production will have you hanging off the edge of your seats. Catch Me if You Can, based on Steven Spielberg's comedy about the true story of Frank Abagnale Jr, is a musical following the life of a young man who's willing to defy all odds, especially the law, and to reach his dreams. Featuring exhilarating performances and a live orchestra, this show promises an unforgettable night of laughter and suspense. Thursday–Saturday at 7:30 pm;

Sunday matinee at 2 pm. $20. ipaltheater.com. •

MAR 7th - MAR 31st

TRIBUTE SHOWS

LE PETIT THEATRE'S BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL New Orleans, Louisiana

Before she was hit-maker Carole King, she was Carole Klein—a spunky, young songwriter from Brooklyn with a unique voice. Beautiful: The Carol King Musical is the Tony and Grammy Award-winning true story of Carole King's journey from teenage songwriter to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. See it at Le Petit Theatre in the French Quarter on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 pm; Sundays at 3 pm, and Saturday, March 23 at 2 pm. lepetittheatre.com. •

MAR 8th PAGE TURNERS

ONE BOOK ONE COMMUNITY

KICK OFF PARTY Baton Rouge, Louisiana

It's that time of year again! Hunker down with your fellow Baton Rougeans and dig into the East Baton Rouge Library's literary selection of the year for its annual One Book One Community initiative, this year featuring Max Miller's book Tasting History. Over the course of the

Grammy-winning blues musician and author Chris Thomas King will present a musical talk at the West Baton Rouge Museum titled "A Taste of Blues & BBQ" on March 15. See listing on page 25. Image of Chris Thomas King courtesy of the WBR Museum.

next six weeks' programming, culture and cuisine lead the way in thisthis flavorful exploration of the past, culminating in a special presentation by Max Miller in April. It all begins with a kick-off party at the Main Library, which will feature live music, locally-catered food, crafts, games, and engagement with community organizations. 5 pm–7 pm. Free. Find a complete list of parish-wide events at ebrpl. com or readonebook.org. •

MAR 8th

BITE INTO BOOKS

EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH LIBRARY EDIBLE BOOK FESTIVAL Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Join literature lovers of good humor in celebrating books, food, and terrible puns—this year, held in conjunction with the One Book, One Communitty Kick-off Party. What is an edible book,

Events

Beginning March 8th - March 9th

Q. WHAT IS A COLONOSCOPY?

Guidry Memorial Park. 9 am–8 pm. $10. cajuncountry.org. •

you ask? An edible creation inspired by a book cover, character, theme, etc. Peruse the bizarre creations and vote on categories from "wittiest" to "leastappetizing". Bring your edible homage to great literature between 4 pm–4:30 pm to enter, winners announced and prizes awarded at 6:30 pm. ebrpl.com. •

A. A colonoscopy is an outpatient colon cancer screening procedure that is good for detecting both colon cancer and polyps. During your colonoscopy your gastroenterologist will remove any polyps that are found, so that the polyps never have a chance to develop into colon cancer. By detecting and removing polyps, a colonoscopy can prevent colon cancer. Because of this, a colonoscopy is considered the gold standard test for colon cancer screening.

MAR 8th - MAR 10th

SICILY IS CALLING INDEPENDENCE SICILIAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL Independence , Louisiana

Celebrate all things Sicilian with the residents of Independence. At the fest, held downtown, you can make spaghetti, eat spaghetti, and even toss meat balls (Yes, we're talking about a meatball throwing contest, friends.) There are also carnival rides, arts & crafts, a St. Joseph altar, live music, pageantry, and even a parade. Details at indysicilianfest.com. •

MAR 8th - MAR 17th

THOUGHTFUL THEATRE GOAT IN THE ROAD'S TOP 5 SURVIVAL MODES

New Orleans , Louisiana

MAR 9th

SHOPPING SPREES

SPRING MERRY MARKET

Gonzales , Louisiana

Due to high demand, the Merry Market returns for a special spring market— featuring almost 300 booths offering clothing, jewelry, home décor, candles, toys, Christmas décor, food, bath and body products, art, and more. There will also be a Kidz Zone to keep the tinies busy while you shop, featuring the Easter bunny, crafts, face painting, and more. Saturday from 9 am–6 pm, Sunday from 10 am–5 pm. $10 admission, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Sparrow Foundation. Children under ten are free. $25 for advanced VIP Shopping, which grants early entry from 8 am–11 am and 20% off select VIP vendors. merrymarket.shop. •

MAR 9th

ART EXHIBITIONS

RODRIGUEZ GALLERY ART

OPENING: THE TREE OF LIFE

Goat in the Road Productions presents their latest original play, Top 5 Survival Modes, at the Contemporary Arts Center. Th is play, created in partnership with Ukrainian New Orleanian Katya Chizhayeva, is a compelling narrative on the experiences of Ukrainian soldiers reintegrating into society after serving on the front lines. Friday and Saturday at 7:30 pm, Sunday at 2 pm. $15–$20. goatintheroadproductions.org. •

MAR 8th - MAR 31st

FEMALE ARTISTS WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH ART SHOW

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

Covington , Louisiana

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of nature's wisdom with Covington artist Marianne Angeli Rodriguez's latest collection The Tree Of Life. There will be an opening reception at the Rodriguez Art Gallery on Columbia Street from 6 pm–9 pm. Free. visitthenorthshore.com. •

MAR 9th

SATURDAY STROLLS

WALK IN THE PARK

Saint Francisville , Louisiana

Local artisans and crafts vendors, live music, and more fun will radiate from Parker Park during this community event. 10:30 am–5 pm. Free. visitstfrancisvillela.com. •

MAR 9th

IMPRESSIVE IMPERSONATORS

PATSY CLINE & CHER

TRIBUTE SHOW

New Roads , Louisiana

The Elizabethan Gallery celebrates Women's History Month with an art show—this year's includes works by Carol Hallock, Carol Creel, Marianna Kalacheva, Dana Mosby, and Krista Roche, among others. An opening reception will take place at the gallery's Mid City Art & Design Cultural District location from 5 pm–7 pm. elizabethangallery.com. •

MAR 9th

STIR THE POT HEARTSTRINGS & ANGEL WINGS GUMBO COOK-OFF

Henderson , Louisiana

Find plenty of gumbo, plus live music, an auction, and kids’ activities in Henry

Lafayette's Lisa Irion, a seasoned character actress with over thirty years of theater experience, is bringing her world-renowned talents as a tribute artist to the Julien Poydras Museum auditorium. At 2:30 pm she will perform as Patsy Cline, and at 7 pm she transforms into the one and only Cher. Her tributes will be set to the King

Events

Beginning March 9th - March 13th

Creole Orchestra from Baton Rouge. $35. Tickets at lisirion.com. •

MAR 9th

DYING TO KNOW FULL COLOR HISTORY

Saint Francisville, Louisiana

Join a park interpreter at Audubon State Historic Site to learn how local plants were used to color yarn and fabric in the days before synthetic dyes. This hands-on event offers insights into historical dyeing techniques. 1 pm–3 pm. audubonstatehistoricsite.wordpress.com. •

MAR 9th

BOTTOMS UP

HATTIESBURG CRAFT

BEER FESTIVAL

Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Join the craft beer scene at the Downtown

MAR 9th

POTS & PADDLES

NOT YOUR MAMA'S GUMBO COOK-OFF

Abita Springs, Louisiana

Nothing brings the people together like an old-fashioned gumbo cook-off. Head out to the Abita Springs Trailhead this weekend, and get lined up as early as 10:30 am. $10 gets you a wristband and a say-so in the People's Choice Awards. Besides the gallons of gumbo, attendees will also enjoy side items and beverages (adult and otherwise) provided for sale by local vendors and organizations. All proceeds will go towards city beautification projects, glass recycling, litter cleanups, and educational programs. Details at the Keep Abita Beautiful Facebook Page. •

MAR 9th

mile course that traverses all the good, the bad, and the ugly terrain that this part of the world has to offer. It's the Rouge Roubaix—a classic race that sends riders sweeping through the hills of West Feliciana and Wilkinson County, Mississippi. Named after the storied Paris Roubaix, a classic European road race famous for taking its riders over extremely rough terrain and cobblestoned sections, the Rouge Roubaix lives up to its name. The race is open to any adventurous rider with a well-tuned machine, a sturdy set of legs and a penchant for pitting him- or herself against the toughest terrain Louisiana has to offer. Starts at 8 am—and even if you aren't racing, you can cheer riders on from the start and finish line in downtown St. Francisville. Race information and registration at rougeroubaix.com. •

MAR 9th

ITALIAN TALKS EXPLORATION IN GENEALOGY: LOUISIANA'S ITALIAN IMMIGRANTS

Port Allen, Louisiana

immigrants and how they contributed to American culture. He'll discuss stereotypes and contributions—all using newspaper articles, photographs, and other primary sources. 10:30 am–noon. Free. westbatonrougemuseum.org. •

MAR 9th

REV YOUR ENGINES

NEW ROADS CAR SHOW AND STREET FESTIVAL

New Roads, Louisiana

New Roads Car Show invites you to join their fifteenth-anniversary classic car showcase. Starting at the City Hall you can expect to see the streets lined with vintage vehicles, live music from DJ Cajun Sounds, food offerings including jambalaya and snowballs, as well as market vendors. There will also be a 50/50 raffle benefiting the Pointe Coupee Homebound & Hospice. You can register your vehicle the day of the event from 7 am–11 am. Spectating beings at 9 am–3 pm. Free. newroadscarshow.com. bontempstix.com. •

Black Joe Lewis | Jackie Venson | Kenny Neal |Eli P

Janiva Magness | Ally Venable | Nikki Hill | GA-20

Jonathon Boogie Long | Louis Michot |Smokehouse Porter & Miss Mamie | Henry Turner Jr. & Flavor | Lil’ Ray Neal

Michael Foster Pro ect Tribute to Ernest Jackson & Jo Monk | Hanna PK

THEBROSFRESH | Bruce Lamb | Curley Taylor & Zydeco Trouble

Alabaster Stag | Ramble Preamble | Florida Street Blowhards

Izzy and the Funky Pack | Blues After School

A Special Advertising Feature from Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center

Growing together

If you were to visit Dr. Kate Castle’s exam room as she helps a patient to understand their treatment options, you shouldn’t be surprised to hear the conversation turn from cancer care, to cauliflower and cucumbers.

The Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center radiation oncologist finds that tending a backyard garden is an interest shared by many of her patients, and can help put the patient in a different frame of mind.

“They know that I grow vegetables,” Castle said. “And I know what they’re planting. We have the most interesting conversations.”

In her role at Mary Bird Perkins, Castle, who also serves as medical director overseeing an expansive radiation oncology program, is passionate about providing the best possible cancer care for her patients. She uses the Cancer Center’s advanced radiation technology to reduce tumors while preserving healthy tissues so that patients have their best shot at maintaining a good quality of life. Recruited from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Castle says she found a true commitment to care at Mary Bird Perkins, where patients aren’t a number—they’re real people.

“I personally feel very strongly that I can’t take care of a patient fully without knowing where they’re coming from, and how they’re navigating a challenging time,” Castle said. “The thing I love, and what I spend a long time doing every day in clinic, is just connecting with my patients.”

Often, that starts with a conversation about how much fun it is to get your hands dirty in garden mulch.

Castle breaks the ice over tomato varieties and composting, reminding patients that home grown veggies offer high nutritional value and cancer-fighting properties.

“I’m all about healthy eating and I’m constantly talking about things patients can do to improve their diet and that reduces cancer risk,” Castle said. “A lot of that is just eating unprocessed foods. There’s nothing better than your food source being your backyard.”

Castle also shares how a few minutes spent in the garden can ease stress. She makes a personal habit of stopping by her own raised beds for a few minutes of weeding before transitioning from a busy day at the clinic to her role as wife and mom of three.

Gardening is something that’s brought satisfaction most of her life, she says.

“My mom was a master gardener,” said Castle, a New Jersey native. “And my husband and I have always had a garden. We’ve moved all over the country and always had a garden, whether it was small or large.”

It’s become even more fun to garden since they’ve had children, Castle says.

The couple’s three kids, eleven-year-old daughter Abby, and sons, Andy, seven, and Jacob, five, enjoy harvesting veggies and helping with weeding and composting.

“They’ll be running around playing, and then walk over and pull a carrot out of the ground and rinse it off and eat it,” Castle said. “It’s just such a joyful thing to watch.”

Last year, Castle worked with Fullness Farms organic gardener Allison Guidroz to quadruple the size of her backyard garden. Guidroz and her husband, Grant, are longtime Red Stick Farmers Market vendors, and Allison consults with home gardeners on maximizing their output. Castle says she’s looking forward to a spring and summer bounty of fresh herbs and produce, including lettuces and sugar snap peas, and soon, tomatoes, eggplant, cucumbers and other heat-loving crops.

“Gardening is such a great conversation starter,” Castle says. “It’s a wonderful way to connect with my patients and talk to them about healthy living.”

marybird.org

Radiation Oncologist Kate Castle uses her love of gardening to connect with patients.

Events

Beginning March 9th - March 15th

Madam Dulcimer, the 2017 National Hammer Dulcimer Champion, and percussionist Lady Chops, known for her performances with STOMP off–Broadway for a decade. Enjoy lively music from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day at various Library locations:

March 9: 10 am at Bluebonnet Regional Branch

March 10: 3 pm at Main Library at Goodwood

March 11: 6 pm at Jones Creek Regional Branch

March 13: 10 am at the Zachary Branch; 4 pm at Jones Creek Regional Branch; 7 pm Main Library at Goodwood ebrpl.com. •

MAR 9th- MAR 16th

PAINTING NATURE SHADOWS-ON-THE-TECHE PLEIN AIR COMPETITION

New Iberia , Louisiana

D ozens of well-known artists from across Louisiana and around the South will come to town to have their blank canvases marked, then

will head out into New Iberia and its surroundings to ply their pastels and work their watercolors. Artists' work will will be exhibited and available for sale in the Shadows Visitor Center, when the competition winners will be announced. The paint-out, ceremony, reception, and exhibit are all free to attend. Additional details at shadowsontheteche.org. •

MAR 10th

SACRED SOUNDS

SACRED HARP SINGING

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

All are invited for Shape Note/Sacred Harp Singing at St. Alban's Chapel on LSU's campus. "Mini singing school" will be from 1:45 pm–2 pm, with singing from 2 pm–4 pm. Free. Email nmolivier@ yahoo.com for more information. •

MAR 10th

DANCE IT OUT BRBT PRESENTS PHILADANCO!

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

Don't miss the highly anticipated return of Pilobolus, the renowned contemporary dance company, to Baton

better with friends

Rouge, presented by Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre at Manship Theatre. Following the success of last year's performance, this collaboration brings Pilobolus's new production, re:CREATION, an exploration of the boundaries of human physicality. Tickets start at $44. 2 pm and 7:30 pm. manshiptheatre.org. •

MAR 10th

PADDY PARADES

SLIDELL'S ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

Slidell , Louisiana

Join the festive spirit of the Olde Towne Slidell Merchants Association's beloved St. Patrick's Day parade, starting at 1 pm. The forty-ninth edition of this lively procession features over fi fty floats, bands, dance groups, and plenty of Irish-themed throws from beads to ingredients for traditional Irish stew. The parade rolls from City Hall. For inquiries, call (985) 641-1105. •

MAR 11th

FAVORITE SONGS

BENNIE & THE JETS COMMUNITY CONCERT

Morgan City, Louisiana

Bennie & The Jets, the ultimate Elton John tribute band, takes the stage at Morgan City Municipal Auditorium. Led

by Greg Ransom, this group promises to captivate audiences with renditions of Elton John's timeless classics. 7 pm–9 pm. $45; $10 for students. (985) 385-2307. •

MAR 13th

BLUE DOG BASH

A NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: CELEBRATING GEORGE RODRIQUE’S 80TH BIRTHDAY

New Iberia , Louisiana

It's George Rodrigue's 80th birthday, and the Bayou Teche Museum invites all to be part of the celebration. The 2024 "Night at the Museum" gala will not only celebrate the beloved artist's birthday, but will also be an opening of Wendy Rodrigue's private collection Painting for Myself, featuring thirty-eight original paintings and sculptures by George Rodrigue. The evening includes culinary delights from local restaurants and a live auction. 6:30 pm. For tickets, call (337) 606-5977. •

MAR 13th- MAR 27th

SUNSET CONCERTS

TWILIGHT AT LONGUE VUE

New Orleans , Louisiana

Longue Vue House and Gardens are always beautiful to behold, but a certain magic settles in during the cooler evening hours. Add the gentle serenade of live

music performances each Wednesday evening for their Twilight at Longue Vue series, and the result is truly spectacular. Bring your own wine, snacks, and lawn chairs, and enjoy the serenity of music wafting on the evening breeze. 5 pm–7 pm. $15. longuevue.com. •

MAR 14th

LIFTED VOICES

CHORALE ACADIENNE'S SPRING CONCERT FEATURING "THE DURUFLÉ REQUIEM"

Lafayette, Louisiana

Chorale Acadienne presents its Spring Concert featuring "The Duruflé Requiem" at 7 pm at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Lafayette. $25 general admission, $20 seniors, $10 students. choraleacadienne.com. •

MAR 14th

ORIGINAL TUNES

TODD LEMOINE SONGWRITER SHOW

Covington, Louisiana

Head to the Covington Country Club's atmospheric Dungeon Bar to hear a set of solo acoustic originals and personal anecdotes from Todd Lemoine. 7 pm–10 pm. $10. Check out Todd Lemoine Music on Facebook for more information. •

MAR 14th

ORCHESTRAL EVENINGS

LPO NORTHSHORE CLASSICS:

APPALACHIAN SPRING

New Orleans, Louisiana

Experience the storytelling of American pioneers and the nation's musical heritage through Aaron Copland's masterful composition, Appalachian Spring , as the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of Music Director Matthew Kraemer, presents the final program of the Northshore Classics 2023–2024 season. The concert will take place at the New Marigny Theatre, 7:30 pm. Tickets start at $20. lpomusic.com. •

MAR 14th - MAR 16th

LITERATI

NEW ORLEANS BOOK FESTIVAL AT TULANE

New Orleans, Louisiana

For the third year, Tulane is hosting a free three-day literary celebration featuring more than a hundred local, regional, and national authors. The 2024 festival will be headlined by New York Times bestselling author, entrepreneur, and political leader Stacey Abrams, alongside Tank Ball, David Brooks, Emma Cline, Ronan Farrow, Maggie Haberman, Yuri Herrera, Kiese Laymon, Imani Perry,

Irma Thomas, Jesmyn Ward, and countless other nationally-influential artists and writers. The festival will also include panel discussions, keynote speeches, musical performances, talks from local chefs, book fairs, workshops, family programing, and more. Schedule and tickets at bookfest.tulane.edu. •

MAR 14th - MAR 19th

KEEP IT CLASSIC MIGHTY ‘SIP FEST Vicksburg, Mississippi

Sip into History at the 2024 Classic 'Sip Fest celebrating Coca-Cola's 130th Anniversary. Presented by Mighty 'Sip Fest in partnership with Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum and Visit Vicksburg, this event promises a nostalgic celebration of all things classic, paying homage to the beloved beverage. For the schedule and more information, visitvicksburg.com. •

MAR 15th

FUN FACTS

TENTH ANNUAL TRIVIA NIGHT

Morgan City, Louisiana

Join the Kiwanis Club of East St. Mary at Morgan City Municipal Auditorium for the tenth Annual Trivia Night. The theme is "Trivia Through the Decades," and dressing the part is highly encouraged. You may just win a

prize. The event will also feature music and food by Game Day Pizza. 5:30 pm. For more information, please contact Debbie Stevens at (985) 397-2963. •

MAR 15th

MUSICAL HISTORY

HISTORICAL HAPPY HOUR WITH CHRIS THOMAS KING

Port Allen, Louisiana

Pack up your favorite libations and open your mind to the history of our community. This month features Grammy-winning blues musician and historian Chris Thomas King for a presentation of "A Taste of Blues & BBQ"—all in celebration of five years of the museum's free youth music enrichment series "Blues After School". The evening will open with a set performed by the program's band, the Juke Joint Juniors—whom King mentors through his foundation, The Blues Origin Institute. 6 pm–8 pm. Free. westbatonrougemuseum.com. •

MAR 15th

LEGENDS IN CONCERT

LITTLE JIMMY REED LIVE AT HEMINGBOUGH

Saint Francisville, Louisiana

Little Jimmy Reed stands as a living legend of the blues, showcasing the

Events

Beginning March 15th - March 26th

essence of the genre with expressive guitar, raw vocals, and soulful harmonica. The Little Jimmy Reed Band, also featuring Bob Hall and Hilary Blythe, has graced stages worldwide, sharing their authentic sound that resonates far beyond Louisiana. Little Jimmy Reed will be back in his home town of St. Francisville to play a concert at Hemingbough. Proceeds will support ongoing efforts to restore the Old Benevolent Society building to serve as a community and cultural center. 7 pm–9:30 pm. $30 at bontempstix.com. •

MAR 15th - MAR 17th

GET OUTSIDE LOUISIANA OUTDOOR EXPO

Gonzales , Louisiana

Embrace Louisiana's title of "Sportsman's Paradise" at the Lamar Dixon Expo Center this weekend, where anything needed for hunting, fi shing, and other outdoor hobbies will be available under one roof. $15 for adults, $5 for children. louisianaoutdoorexpo.com. •

MAR 15th - MAR 17th

EMERALD AFFAIRS

CELTIC BAYOU FESTIVAL

Lafayette , Louisiana

Lafayette's Annual St. Patrick's Day Festival returns, bringing the very best in traditional Celtic music and entertainment. Downtown will be seeing green with cultural events including an Irish Whiskey Tasting, a Guinness Cook-off, a Pub Crawl, a Bailey's bakeoff, a children's area, and more. All of this happening against a background of Acadian & Celtic medleys sparking inner urges to kick up your feet. It all begins Friday with a Pub Crawl, ending with a festival pre-party at the Hideaway on Lee. Schedule and ticket prices can be found at celticbayoufest.com. •

MAR 15th - MAR 17th

BIVALVE BASH AMITE OYSTER FESTIVAL

Amite , Louisiana

A staple of the local economy as well as the local palate, oysters have good reason to be celebrated in Amite. The festivities start up with the annual Chili

The Amite Oyster Festival on March 15–17 promises all of the fresh, char-grilled, fried, and just about any other style of oyster one could desire—plus live music, carnival rides, pageants, and other festival fun.

Cook-Off and live music (Yea You Right, Chee Weez, and Bryan Mannino) on Friday, followed by a full day on Saturday of parading, oyster-eating, and twostepping, featuring performances by Will Vance, Supersonic Band, The Seymours, Ryan Foret, 5th Wheel Band, and Lindsey Cardinale + Caleb. Sunday, get started with a church service and performances by Kenny Acosta and the Geauxphonics, Stormy Band, and Austin Stafford. Carnival rides, local food and drink, and pageantry

galore—not to mention a healthy (or maybe not so healthy) portion of fresh oysters, all in Downtown Amite. amiteoysterfestival.com. •

MAR 15th - MAR 17th

GOOD VIBES

MOONSHADOW FESTIVAL

Abita Springs , Louisiana

The Moonshadow Festival is bringing a synthesis of music, wellness, and art to beautiful Abita Springs. The festival

will be held on the grounds of The Abita Springs Be & Be, a magical eighty-eight acre property equipped with two cabins, labyrinths, lakes, a watsu pool, a sauna, and a non-denominational temple. Delight in live music, art installations, and healing activities amidst the lush backdrop of nature. Tier one general admission tickets are $125, single day passes are available for $99, VIP weekend passes are $385. RV camping access prices are $195–$2,200. Tents are also available for rental. moonshadowfest.com. •

MAR 15th - MAR 24th

COMEDY ON STAGE

MAMA DON'T FLY AT THE BAY ST. LOUIS LITTLE THEATRE

Bay Saint Louis , Mississippi

Th is ferociously funny, family-friendly Jones-Hope-Wooten comedy will have guests laughing from beginning to end. Catch it at the Bay St. Louis Little Theatre at 8 pm Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 pm on Sundays. $25; $18 for seniors sixtyfive and older/students; $10 for children twelve and under. bontempstix.com. •

MAR 15th - MAR 24th

MESSIAH MUSICALS

JPAS PRESENTS

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

Metairie , Louisiana

The Jefferson Performing Arts Society presents Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar this spring at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center. This revival of the once-controversial Broadway musical offers a unique take on the events of the Gospels, set against a backdrop of rock, gospel, folk, and funk music. 7:30 pm. Tickets start at $23. jpas.org. •

MAR 15th - MAR 24th

WHODUNNIT?

MURDER AT WEATHERFIELD AT PLAYMAKERS THEATER

Covington , Louisiana

Whodunnit this time? Th is satirical take on the Agatha Christie-style of storytelling will present the Playmakers Theater audience with a conundrum: who, among his family, killed Lord Winthrop? For mature audiences. 7 pm Fridays and Saturdays; 2 pm Sundays. Tickets are $20; $15 for children. at bontempstix.com . •

MAR 16th

WEARIN' OF THE GREEN COVINGTON ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE

Covington , Louisiana

Irish blood runs thick in Covington, Louisiana—and even those who can't claim it have eagerly celebrated the heritage of St. Patrick's patronage in

Louisiana since 2018 with the birth of the Covington Celtic Club and annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. The route runs from the Columbia Street Tap Room, and concludes with a block party at the corner of New Hampshire and Rutland Streets, where ladies and leprechauns alike may dance the afternoon away for a St. Patty's block party. Noon. covingtoncelticclub.com. •

MAR 16th

NORLA LOVE

318 DAY FESTIVAL

Shreveport , Louisiana

Celebrate all of the music, food, and culture North Louisiana offers at this second-annual festival at Caddo Common Park. Food trucks, live music, art vendors, and even a fashion show will round out the day. 11 am–8 pm. Free. visitshreveportbossier.org. •

MAR 16th

OLD FASHIONED AUDUBON ARTS & NATURE FEST

Saint Francisville , Louisiana

Audubon State Historic Site welcomes all to the Arts & Nature Fest, featuring educational demonstrations about live animals, dyes, herbal medicine and more about the world of the 1800s. 10 am–3 pm. Admission applies. (225) 635-3739. •

MAR 16th

SHAMROCK SHINDIGS

PATTY IN THE PARC Lafayette , Louisiana

One of the biggest Saint Patrick's Day parties in South Louisiana, Patty in the Parc returns to downtown Lafayette featuring Paul Wall, Th ree Th irty Seven, DJ Digital, and The Good Dudes. Gates open at 5 pm. $20 in advance; $25 at the gate. Visit Patty in the Parc's Facebook Page for tickets. •

MAR 16th

GET CRAFTY CRAFTIN' CAJUNS CRAFT SHOW & MARKETPLACE

Houma , Louisiana

Benefit from the outsized ingenuity of a Cajun craftsperson at the HoumaTerrebonne Civic Center. The Craftin' Cajuns indoor craft show and marketplace features over two hundred vendors from 9 am–5 pm. houmaciviccenter.com. •

MAR 16th

PORCH CONCERTS

ABITA SPRINGS OPRY

Abita Springs , Louisiana

The Abita Springs Opry is devoted to preserving Louisiana's indigenous music in all its guises. Arrive early

INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT

Luca Stricagnoli | Thu Le Marco Pereira | Minnie Marks

Events

Beginning March 16th

(around 5 pm-ish) and join the folks who've made a ritual of enjoying gumbo, hot dogs, and homemade pastries, not to mention the pre-show sound checks and front porch concerts. This month, the lineup includes Three Rivers Coopperative, Deep N Blue, Jonno Frishburn and Bayou Deville, and the Shotgun Jazz Band. 7 pm–9 pm. $20. abitaopry.org. •

MAR 16th

LUCK O' THE IRISH LIVINGSTON ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

Denham Springs, Louisiana

If you're feeling lucky, join Denham Springs at their inaugural St. Patrick's Day Parade, a family–friendly celebration featuring vibrant floats, lively marching bands, and plenty of festivity. The fun kicks off at 5 pm starting at Denham Springs High School to the intersection of S. Range and Veteran's Blvd. This year's Grand Marshall is Rogers Pope. Sign up to sponsor or to register a float at bontempstix.com. livingstontourism.com. •

MAR 16th

EGGCELLENT OUTINGS

NINETEENTH CENTURY EASTER

EGG HUNT AT ROSEDOWN

Saint Francisville, Louisiana

During this family-friendly event, children will roam the lawns and sinuous paths that wind through Rosedown Plantation's twenty-eight acres of gardens for an old-fashioned Easter egg hunt, led by Interpretive Ranger Sasha Traña. Special prizes will be given to children who discover the "Rosedown" eggs. Nineteenth-century games round out the day's events. Participating children are encouraged to bring their own Easter baskets. Hunt begins at 2 pm; the Rosedown grounds are open from 9 am–5 pm. (225) 635-3110. •

MAR 16th

VIVA VERDE

WEARIN' OF THE GREEN PARADE

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

This wildly popular Baton Rouge tradition will roll through the Hundred Oaks neighborhood and Perkins Road overpass area, spreading green goodwill to the thousands who come out in support of the Irish holiday. Come early to claim a spot on the route; parade begins at 10 am on the corner of Hundred Oaks and Acadian. wearinofthegreen.com. •

MAR 16th

ROLL THE DICE

CASINO NIGHT

Morgan City, Louisiana

Beat the odds at the Junior Auxiliary of East St. Mary's Casino Night, taking place at Nico Bella. The theme is "Denim & Diamonds," and tickets include food and libations, playing chips, photo-booths and more glamorous entertainment. $75. 6 pm–10 pm. cajuncoast.com. •

MAR 16th

CUMIN & PEPPER

CHILI COOK-OFF

Berwick, Louisiana

Whether you're camping or not, showcase your chili-making skills at Cypress Lake Resort for their fourth-annual chili cookoff, and enjoy live music by the Justin Cornette Band. Noon. cajuncoast.com. •

MAR 16th

MUSICAL INVENTORS

SALON & QUINTRON AT YES WE CANNIBAL

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Yes We Cannibal invites you to their Salon featuring a captivating solo performance by Quintron and a Tiger Acknowledgment press conference. 4 pm. Free. yeswecannibal.org. •

MAR 16th

BLUSH & BASHFUL STEEL MAGNOLIA RUN Natchitoches, Louisiana

Let your dress be inspired by the Natchitoches-set film adaptation of Steel Magnolias for the annual Steel Magnolia run, which is a fundraiser for the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center Foundation. 8 am. $35 to participate in the 5K walk/run, $30 to participate in the 1-mile fun run. runsignup.com. •

MAR 16th

EVANGELINE'S COMIN' ACADIAN MEMORIAL HERITAGE FESTIVAL

Saint Martinville, Louisiana

Looking back on more than 250 years of history, this celebration of all things Acadian—or Cadien (Cajun)— centers in Evangeline Oak Park, where there'll be jambalaya, gumbo, cracklin' demonstrations, theatre, Cajun dance lessons and music, mask making, storytelling, Longfellow readings, kids’ activities, and more. A re-enactment will take place commemorating the historic arrival of the deported Acadiens into

upcoming events

2024

• 4/11-14–JukeJointFestival&Related Events

• 4/14–CatHeadMini Blues Fest

• 5/2-5 –BonesFestXXVIII

• 5/11 –ClarksdaleCaravan Music Festival

• 5/24-25 –Ground Zero Blues ClubAnniversary

• 5/25 – Deak’s Harmonica Block Party

• 5/26 – Bad Apple Blues Festival

• 6/14-16–Birthplace of American Music Festival

• 8/9-11–SunflowerRiver Blues & Gospel Fest

• 8/9-11–CatHeadAnniversary

• 8/31 – Red’s Old Timers Blues Fest

• 9/13-14 – Mighty Roots Music Festival

• 10/9-12 –King Biscuit Blues Festival(Helena,Arkansas)

• 10/13 –Clarksdale Super Blues Sunday

• 10/13 –Pinetop PerkinsHomecoming

• 10/17-20 –Deep Blues Fest

• 10/ 17-19 – Mississippi DeltaTennesseeWilliamsFestival

• 10/24-27 –HamboneFestival

• 10/25-26 – Cruz’n The Crossroads Car&TruckShow

• 12/31 – Clarksdale’s New Year’s Eve Weekend

2025

• 1/24-26 –Clarksdale Film & Music Festival

• 4/10-13 –JukeJointFestival&Related Events

Events

Beginning March 16th - March 22nd

Attakapas Territory. The festivities begin on Friday at 5 pm with a social, and continue through Saturday from 9:45 am–3 pm for the main festival. Free. acadianmemorial.org. •

MAR 16th - JUL 7th

RETROSPECTIVES

TINA GIROUARD: SIGN–IN AT THE OGDEN

New Orleans , Louisiana

The Rivers Institute for Contemporary Art & Thought and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art proudly present Tina Girouard: SIGN-IN, a retrospective honoring the Louisiana-born artist's eclectic career. From her avant-garde collaborations in New York to her immersion in Haitian culture, this exhibition offers a glimpse into Girouard's multifaceted journey through performance, film, textile, and community-based art. ogdenmuseum.org. •

MAR 16th - MAR 24th

SURREAL SHOWS

A GRAPHIC JOURNEY: PRINTS BY PICASSO AT THE AMOA

Alexandria , Louisiana

Explore the creative evolution of Picasso throughout the twentieth century at the Alexandria Museum of Art, showcasing the Timothy Collins Collection, A Graphic Journey: Prints by Picasso. Th is exhibit features etchings, lithographs, and linocuts that offer profound insights into the legendary artist's lesser-explored techniques. The collection also offers a perspective on Picasso's influential contributions to art history and his enduring legacy beyond his iconic paintings. $5. Find more information and museum hours at themuseum.org. •

MAR 18th

POST-PARADES

BEAUVOIR PARK'S ST. PADDY'S DAY PARADE THROWDOWN Baton Rouge , Louisiana

A family and dog-friendly B.Y.O.B. bash following the parades, featuring live music from The Southside Roosters and Spoonfed Jr. Doors at noon, music 1 pm. $20 at bontempstix.com. •

MAR 19th - MAR 24th

PASS IT DOWN

DEWEY BALFA CAJUN & CREOLE HERITAGE WEEK Eunice , Louisiana

Learn fi rst-hand from masters of Cajun and Creole music, dance, cuisine, and culture in a very Louisiana setting—

Lakeview Park & Beach in Eunice. The Dewey Balfa Cajun and Creole Heritage Week (also known as "Balfa Week"), put on by the Louisiana Folk Roots organization, is a true cultural immersion experience that includes workshops, jam sessions, featured artist presentations, and evening dances featuring some of the state's fi nest Cajun and Creole/ zydeco bands. Workshops in accordion, fiddle, guitar, Cajun and Creole vocals, local dance, and Louisiana foodways are on offer, with an instructor roster that features a who's-who of Louisiana artists. Find all the details, including schedule information, at lafolkroots.org. •

MAR 20th

LOCAL HISTORY

PROFESSOR JOHN C. RODRIGUE TALK

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

All are welcomed at the Louisiana Old State Capitol for a captivating lecture on Reconstruction by Professor John C. Rodrigue, exploring the abolition of slavery in the Lower Mississippi Valley. Presented in conjunction with the upcoming A More Perfect Union exhibit, this event offers valuable insights into the region's history. 6 pm. Free. louisianaoldstatecapitol.org. •

MAR 20th

LOCAL HISTORY

WEST FELICIANA HISTORICAL SOCIETY AT EBRPL

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

Learn local history at the Main Library at Goodwood with Kristy Small, Executive Director of the West Feliciana Historical Society and Museum, as she illuminates the rich heritage of West Feliciana, focusing on St. Francisville and Bayou Sara. 6 pm. ebrpl.com. •

MAR 20th

DINNER & A SHOW

"PLAY WITH YOUR FOOD" FUNDRAISER

Covington , Louisiana

Th is fundraiser for the Playmakers Theater in Covington joins the art of dining with the art of pretend: enjoy an elegant three course meal, with each dish followed by a short comedy written by playwright Joe Starzyk and performed by the Theater players. Also try your hand at winning one of evening's raffles, and take advantage of the cash wine and beer bar. 6 pm–9 pm. $85 includes gratuity. bontempstix.com. •

MAR 20th - MAR 24th

LITERARY LEGACIES

TENNESSEE WILLIAMS & NEW ORLEANS LITERARY FESTIVAL

New Orleans , Louisiana

The Tennessee Williams and New Orleans Literary Festival returns to the French Quarter in celebration of the city's astonishing literary legacy. The five-day event will bring many speakers and performers together, and there will be writer's craft sessions, literary discussions, food, music, and so much more. Featured guests this year include M.O. Walsh, Maurice Carlos Ruffi n, and Carolyn Hembree. Most events (far too numerous to detail here, but which range from master classes and walking tours to theatre, food, and musical offerings) will take place in the French Quarter. tennesseewilliams.net for all the details. •

MAR 20th - MAR 24th FOR PEAT'S SAKE

NEW ORLEANS BOURBON FESTIVAL

New Orleans , Louisiana

The New Orleans Bourbon Festival (that's the drink, not the street) brings food, spirit, and culture to the New Orleans Marriott and the Contemporary Arts Center, as well as participating restaurants. Events include bourbon seminars, dinners, tastings, tours, live

music, and beyond—all celebrating brands like Cathead, Four Roses, Maker's Mark, and more. Proceeds go toward Kids Can NOLA, a nonprofit that benefits the welfare of local children. Single-day, foodonly tickets start at $79, seminar-access tickets start at $89, with various bundles and VIP opportunities from there. Visit neworleansbourbonfestival.com for a full schedule and tickets. •

MAR 21st

SIPS & SERVICES COCKTAILS FOR KID SMART

New Orleans , Louisiana

Sip tasty craft cocktails and bid on exciting live auction items, all for the sake of supporting the expansion of programming in KID smART's Creative Schools, enabling the organization to further their mission of providing arts education in and around New Orleans. The evening, held at The Cannery on Toulouse, begins with cocktails an exclusive patron hour at 6:30 pm, featuring live music by the Jenn Howard Band. The main cocktail party takes place from 7:30 pm–9:30 pm, which includes a live auction including works by artist Ruth Owens, a week-long stay in a villa in the south of France, a New Orleans Arts Lovers package, and more. Tasty food will

be provided by The Cannery, with entertainment provided by DJ Rusty Lazer and the International School of Louisiana's Circus Arts. Tickets and more information at kidsmart.org. •

MAR 21st GUEST ARTISTS

TANIA MILLER AND THE BRSO

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

The Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra presents the artistry of renowned Canadian conductor Tania Miller. Recently appointed Artistic Director of the Brott Music Festival, Miller's upcoming season includes prestigious debuts and return engagements with acclaimed orchestras worldwide, and now she will be leading the BRSO Choir at the River Center Theatre. 7:30 pm–9:30 pm. Tickets start at $19. brso.org. •

MAR 21st - MAR 24th

MUDBUG MADNESS LOUISIANA CRAWFISH FESTIVAL Chalmette , Louisiana

Not ones to let the celebration of crawfish fixed-any-which-way-youlike-it remain an exclusively Acadiana event, Chalmette presents its own crawfish festival—and has since 1975.

Hungry festival-goers arrive to enjoy thirty thousand pounds of boiled crawfish with all the fixin's, as well as crawfish dishes such as crawfish bread, crawfish pasta, crawfish pies, crawfish rice, and crawfish jambalaya. Live music galore, arts & crafts vendors, and a midway are also provided. All the eating takes place at the Sigur Cultural Center. $5 Saturday, $10 Sunday. louisianacrawfishfestival.com. •

MAR 22nd

COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS HUMANITIES AMPED "AMPLIFY HOPE" KICKBACK PARTY

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

Over the past ten years, the visionary youth and education nonprofit, Humanities Amped, has evolved into a dynamic and diverse community of students and educators who are committed to innovative, healingcentered, culturally responsive education. Join staff, alumni, and the greater community for this anniversary party at Mid City Ballroom. Expect food, drinks, games, live music, poetry-writing, mystery raffles, and community-building. 7 pm–10 pm. $60 in advance; $70 at the door; $150 for early VIP admission. bontempstix.com. •

Events

Beginning March 22nd - March 23rd

MAR 22nd

SATIRE GRIDIRON SHOW

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Join the Capital Correspondents Association for the nation's oldest continually running Gridiron Show—the annual spoof of everything political and governmental in Louisiana. Since 1952 the Capital Correspondents Association has been satirizing the ins, the outs, and the foibles of Louisiana government and politics. Proceeds from the show go to support journalism scholarships for students at Louisiana State University-Baton Rouge, Southern University-Baton Rouge, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and/ or Southeastern Louisiana University as well as public broadcasting through WLPB-TV, WRKF-FM, and WBRH-FM. Doors open at 6:30 pm; show begins at 7:45 pm each evening. Tickets at bontempstix.com. •

MAR 22nd - MAR 23rd

CHILI FOR CHARITY

ST. JUDE CHILI COOK-OFF

New Iberia, Louisiana

Get ready to spice things up and settle

the score on who dishes out the best bowl of chili at the St. Jude Fundraiser Chili Cook-off taking place at the SugArena & Acadiana Fairgrounds. Friday night includes an auction and live music, plus plenty of entertainment for the little ones from 5 pm–10 pm. The fun carries on for Saturday from 9 am–11 pm, with chili serving starting at 1 pm. $20. sugarena.com. •

MAR 22nd - MAR 24th

BETWEEN THE LINES

THE SAINTS + SINNERS LGBTQ LITERARY FESTIVAL

New Orleans, Louisiana

Since 2003, Saints + Sinners LGBTQ Literary Festival has grown into an internationally-recognized event that brings together a who’s who of LGBTQ publishers, writers, and readers from throughout the United States and beyond. The Festival, hosted by the same folks who bring us the Tennessee Williams Literary Festival and usually held at the Hotel Monteleone in the French Quarter, features panel discussions and master classes around literary topics that provide a forum for authors, editors and

publishers to talk about their work for the benefit of emerging writers and the enjoyment of fans of LGBTQ literature. Featured speakers this year include Wes Jamison, Frank Perez, Carol Rosenfeld, Delaney McLemore, and more. $200. sasfest.org. •

MAR 23rd

SMALL TOWN AFFAIRS

WASHINGTON COMMUNITY FESTIVAL

Washington, Louisiana

Soak up the festive atmosphere on Main Street at the Washington Community Festival, celebrating the heritage of the steamboat town. Enjoy live music, a car show, and a Catfish Cook-Off honoring the area's bayou tradition. There will also be vendor stalls and a silent auction. 10 am–9 pm. For more information, contact Washington Town Hall at (337) 826–3626. •

MAR 23rd

WHEELS & SPOKES

TOUR DE LIS BIKE RIDE

Mandeville, Louisiana

Pedal for a cause at the Tour de Lis Louisiana Bike Ride at Fontainebleau State Park in Mandeville. Support the Cancer Association of Louisiana with a non-competitive bike ride or walk

through the park's picturesque trails. Register to ride for $50, or be a guest for $40. 8 am. For registration and details, visit tourdelisla.org. •

MAR 23rd

VROOM VROOM

BRITISH MOTORING FESTIVAL

Covington, Louisiana

Those with an affinity for British cars and motorcycles will want to find themselves at the Covington Trailhead where The British Motoring Club of New Orleans will be out piloting their most prized possessions on wheels. The day will be dedicated to celebrating ownership, driving, and preserving such vehicles, and all British cars and motorcycles (and their owners) are welcome to attend. Best time is 10 am–3 pm; free. bmcno.org. •

MAR 23rd

EGGSTRAVAGANZAS

EASTER EGG HUNT

Morgan City, Louisiana

Hop into spring fun at Lawrence Park with Morgan City Main Street's Easter Egg Hunt, inviting all kiddos up to eight years of age. A decorated Easter egg basket stands the chance of winning a prize, and winners will have the opportunity to take pictures with Mayor Lee Dragna. 10 am–11 am. For more

details, contact Morgan City Main Street at (985) 385-1770. •

MAR 23rd

CREEP IT REAL

CAJUN COUNTRY PARA–CON

New Iberia , Louisiana

Calling all seekers of the supernatural and enthusiasts of the unexplained to join the inaugural Cajun Country Para-Con for an eerie time, brought to you by Louisiana Spirits and the City of New Iberia. Head to Sliman Theater for lectures and encounters with ghost–hunting icons like Dave Schrader and Sarah Lemos. The event will also host food truck vendors. 9 am–4 pm. $30. Call (337) 255-8112 for more information. •

MAR 23rd

RICELY YOURS

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CRAWFISH ETOUFFÉE COOK-OFF

Eunice , Louisiana

The étouffée extravaganza has Eunice simmerin' again this year. And though we're pretty sure places like Germany, Thailand, or Chile aren't competing in the cook-off, we like the sound of "world championship," too. Catch the Cook-Off Kick-Off Cajun Dance on Saturday night at Lakeview Park & Beach (8 pm–midnight), then come

back to the Northwest Pavilion on Sunday for the main event. And don't miss the arts and crafts vendors, petting zoo, pony rides, fun jumps and more, while you're out there. Enjoy live music by Jamie Bergeron and the Kickin' Cajuns, Steve Riley with C4, and Cameron Fontenot & the Rhythm Aces while chowing down from 10 am–4 pm. Free. etouffeecookoff.org. •

MAR 23rd

CONTACT SPORTS

DODGEBALL CHALLENGE

Saint Francisville , Louisiana

Dodge, duck, dip, and dive at the Dodgeball Challenge hosted by the West Feliciana Education Foundation. Head to the West Feliciana Sports Park at 10 am and you can either join a team of six to compete for victory and the coveted golden hippo trophy, or cheer on local friends and business owners from the sidelines. There's also a chance to win a prize for the best team name or costume. The fun-packed day will feature delicious food vendors, a beer garden, and a kid zone. Details at wearewestfel.org. •

MAR 23rd

ELEGANT OCCASIONS

A NIGHT OF GIVING GALA

Bogalusa , Louisiana

Join the Franklinton and Bogalusa Rotary

Clubs for their debut black tie aff air A Night of Giving Gala, benefiting local child abuse victims served by Children’s Advocacy Center-Hope House. Hosted at the Coke Plant Wedding & Event Venue in Bogalusa, enjoy an evening of fine dining by Bourne's Seafood, live tunes from Back 40 Small Town Band, and an exciting silent auction. 6 pm–11 pm. $60 or $100 for two. support.cachopehouse.org. •

MAR 23rd

TRAILBLAZERS

BERNETTE JOHNSON TALK Baton Rouge , Louisiana

Celebrate Women's History Month

with a special event at the Old State Capitol featuring former Chief Justice Bernette Johnson. Chief Justice Johnson, a trailblazer in the legal field, will share her inspiring journey as the fi rst Black and second female Chief Justice of the Louisiana Supreme Court. 1 pm. Free. louisianaoldstatecapitol.org. •

MAR 23rd

SILVER SCREEN CANE RIVER FILM FESTIVAL Natchitoches , Louisiana

Produced by the Resurrection Fern Foundation, the Cane River Film Festival brings Louisiana stories to a worldwide audience through its annual exhibition

of locally-made fi lms. At Parkway Cinema 6, the day will include several screenings, Q&As, panel discussions, and an awards ceremony. Free. 11 am–4 pm. caneriverfi lmfestival.com. •

MAR 23rd

HILLS ARE ALIVE

TUNICA HILLS MUSIC

FESTIVAL & JAM

Saint Francisville , Louisiana

Once again, the hills come alive for the annual Tunica Hills Music Festival and Jam. Four stages welcome Louisiana musicians for concerts, jam sessions, instruction, and celebration of the arts. Bring your blankets, chairs, coolers, and of course your instruments and settle in for a beautiful weekend. 10 am–10 pm. Free. visitstfrancisvillela.com. •

MAR 23rd - MAR 24th

DIY-ERS

PONTCHARTRAIN HOME SHOW & LOUISIANA FOOD FEST Kenner, Louisiana

The Spring Pontchartrain Home Show— Louisiana’s largest and longest running fall home show—returns. This year’s event will feature exhibitors boasting the latest trends in kitchens, remodeling, flooring, outdoor living, and so much more. While you're there, don't miss the Langenstein's

Events

Beginning March 23rd - March 28th

Food Fest, where there will be free samples, tastings, coupons, and recipes from over thirty brands. Every participant at the show has a chance to win door prizes, including spa days, restaurant certificates and more— and one lucky winner will leave with a $500 grocery gift card. 10 am–5 pm. $8; children younger than twelve are free. jaaspro.com. •

MAR 23rd - MAR 24th

BLOCK PARTIES

OLDE TOWNE SLIDELL SPRING

STREET FAIR

Slidell , Louisiana

Join the Olde Towne Slidell Forty-Th ird Annual Slidell Spring Street Fair spanning six blocks of Olde Towne Slidell's Griffith Park area. The affair features over 200 booths with antiques, collectibles, arts, crafts, and food, accompanied by live music on three stages. louisiananorthshore.com. •

MAR 23rd - MAR 24th

MUSICAL MECCAS

CONGO SQUARE RHYTHMS

FESTIVAL

New Orleans , Louisiana

Considered by many to be the birthplace

of New Orleans music, historic Congo Square in Louis Armstrong Park will once again host one of the city's most vibrant festivals. For two days, attendees can immerse themselves in mesmerizing musical performances from the world over, playing alongside some of the Crescent city's most beloved bands. Th is year's musical acts include Rebirth Brass Band, Hot 8 Brass Band, Tremé Brass Band, Original Pinettes Brass Band, Shake Em’ Up Jazz Band, and a drum circle featuring acts like The Rumble, MCs Alfred Banks and Kaye the Beast, and African dance troupes. An arts market will round out the agenda. Free parking at the Mahalia Jackson Theatre. Details at jazzandheritage.org. •

MAR 24th

BUNNY BUSINESS OLD FASHIONED EASTER AT RURAL LIFE

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

The Friends of the LSU Rural Life Museum will celebrate the annual Old Fashioned Easter Celebration, with springtime excitement and activities for wee ones between ages two and eight

overseen by the Easter Bunny himself. There'll be an Easter egg hunt, live music, storytelling, egg pacquing, egg dying, leg races, and other old-fashioned games. 2:30 pm–5 pm. $8 per person (children under two will be admitted for free.) bontempstix.com. lsu.edu/rurallife. •

MAR 24th

BUNNIES & BASKETS EASTER EGG-STRAVAGANZA

Port Allen , Louisiana

Don't miss the annual Easter Eggstravaganza hosted on the West Baton Rouge Museum's grounds, from 2 pm–3:30 pm. Enjoy live music, crafts, games, Easter egg hunts, and meet adorable animals from Cajun Cuties Mobile Petting Zoo. Plus, the Easter Bunny will make a special appearance. Free admission, with refreshments available for purchase. westbatonrougemusuem.org. •

MAR 24th

SOIRÉES NIGHT AT THE FRENCH OPERA

New Orleans , Louisiana

For one night, in the French Quarter's Historic BK House & Gardens, step back in time to the elegance and splendor of the Belle Époque era, as the Old French Opera House revives itself for one evening in support of the Nous Foundation. The

pre-gala will include a champagne bar, oysters, and chamber music followed by a grand gala featuring a French dinner, champagne bar, and performances of ballet and lyrical singing. 5 pm–9 pm. Tickets start at $75. nous-foundation.org. •

MAR 25th - MAR 26th

STROLL & SHOP

SLIDELL SPRING STREET FAIR Slidell , Louisiana

In the heart of Olde Towne Slidell, upwards of two hundred vendors gather to peddle antique furniture, glass, vintage clothing, jewelry, collectibles, handmade crafts, and things to eat. It's a colorful, walkable opportunity to fi nd a wide range of merchandise, from 10 am–5 pm both days on First, Second, and Erlanger streets. Free. slidellstreetfair.com. •

MAR 28th

ORCHESTRAL COLLABS

ÌFÉ AND THE LOUISIANA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA New Orleans, Louisiana

At the Ashe Cultural Arts Center, hear the Grammy Award-winning Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra in a musical collaboration concert with New Orleansbased producer and percussionist Otura Mun, known as ÌFÉ, for this month's

Events

Beginning March 28th - March 30th

Music at the Museum series. ÌFÉ's music revolutionizes the electronic music scene, bridging ancient diaspora traditions with contemporary beats, and this evening he will premiere works arranged by LPO violist Sixto Franco. 6 pm. For more information, visit lpomusic.com. •

MAR 28th

HOP TO IT

EASTER EGG HUNT AT THE RED STICK FARMERS MARKET

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

At this week's Red Stick Farmer's Market at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center, bring the kiddos for a fun Easter experience searching for eggs among the market finds. 9 am–10 am. Free. breada.org. •

MAR 29th - MAR 31st

SONGKRAN LAO NEW YEAR CELEBRATION

Broussard , Louisiana

Iberia Parish's not inconsiderable Laotian community holds its New Year celebration, known as Songkran, every Easter weekend, and thousands from near and far will be there to honor a

tradition that preserves Laotian culture here in Louisiana. The friendly folks of Lanexang Village and the temple there, Wat Thammarattanaram, offer parades, authentic cuisine and clothing, jewelry, sand castle building, live music and dancing, pageantry, and children's activities. (337) 658-3229 or visit the event's Facebook Page. •

MAR 29th - SEP 29th

IMAGES & WORDS

SHOW AND TELL: A BRIEF HISTORY OF PHOTOGRAPHY AND TEXT AT NOMA

New Orleans , Louisiana

Th is month, the New Orleans Museum of Art introduces a new exhibit, Show and Tell: A Brief History of Photography and Text , featuring selections from NOMA's collection to show the way the advent of photography has been intertwined with written word throughout history. From the early talbotype to the modern meme, this exhibit is an exploration of how visuals and language shape our perceptions and challenge misinformation. This showcase features renowned artists like Berenice Abbott,

Margaret Bourke–White, and Hank Willis Thomas. noma.org. •

MAR 30th

RAINBOW TRADITIONS

LAFAYETTE HOLI FEST

Lafayette , Louisiana

Celebrate the beginning of spring with the Acadiana Indian Association this year in this vibrant festival of culture and color. The traditional Hindu festival brings together music and carefree fun for a day of friendship and celebration, held in Girard Park each year. Indian dance and music performances will set the backdrop for the festival, as well as an array of delicious Indian dishes available for purchase. 11 am–4 pm. Free. lafayetteholi.org. •

MAR 30th

BLOCK PARTIES FRERET STREET FESTIVAL

New Orleans , Louisiana

Billed as the kick-off to festival season, this Uptown neighborhood festival is basically one huge block party. More than two hundred local vendors, live music on multiple stages, a kids' activity area, a second line and Mardi Gras Indian walk, and festival food are predictable New Orleanian fare, but

it's the street-party vibe that gives the festival its edge. 11 am–6 pm between Napoleon and Valmont. Free. freretstreetfestival.org. •

MAR 30th

TIME TRAVEL

MERRYVILLE PIONEER

HERITAGE FESTIVAL

Merryville , Louisiana

The Merryville Historical Society & Museum invite all to the historic grounds of the Merryville Pioneer Museum from 9 am–8 pm for a celebration of culture and community, featuring market vendors, demonstrations, and more. Free. merryvillemuseum.org. •

MAR 30th - MAY 5th

STUDENT ART

TALENTED STUDENT ART OF WEST BATON ROUGE

Port Allen , Louisiana

Celebrate the creativity of K-12 art students from West Baton Rouge Parish public schools at the Talented Student Art Exhibition, held at the West Baton Rouge Museum. This exhibit features paintings, drawings, ceramics, and paper mâché sculptures by local students in West Baton Rouge. westbatonrougemusuem.org. •

SPRING FORWARD

Events for Gardeners

MAR 7th - MAR 21st

GREEN THUMBS

MASTER GARDENER TALKS

Baton Rouge , Louisiana

e East Baton Rouge Master Gardeners Association has partnered with the East Baton Rouge Parish Libraries to o er free educational talks and workshops on the following gardening topics.

March 7: All About Herbs — Presented by Kathy Mullin, this workshop will focus on classifying herbs into those that are easy to grow, those that need special care, seasonal ones, and those that present challenges. She will discuss preservation tactics such as drying, freezing, and other innovative techniques.

Fruit Producing Favorites in Louisiana

Leo Broders will discuss the possibilities of building an edible landscape in Baton Rouge via fruit trees, vines, and bushes. is program will take place at 6:30 pm at the Greenwell Springs Library.

March 21: Lawn & Turf —DG Ewing will share information on various lawn and turf species, strategies for selecting and establishing turf, how to do it yourself, and the importance of soil testing. He will also

discuss e ective lawncare routines. Native Plants —Gaynelle Wol will introduce guests to a variety of native Louisiana plants suitable for landscaping— which can not only make gardening easier, but bene t your immediate environment. is program will take place at 6:30 pm at the Jones Creek Library. ebrmg.wildapricot.org.

MAR 8th

BLOOM BOOM

BATON ROUGE SPRING GARDEN SHOW

Baton Rouge , Louisiana is weekend, the oor of John M. Parker Coliseum at LSU will be transformed into a fascinating world of plants and gardens with the return of the Baton Rouge Spring Garden Show, presented by the LSU AgCenter and the School of Plant, Environmental, and Soil Sciences. e show includes numerous vendors selling a tremendous variety of plants and yard, garden, and patio related merchandise. A number of arts and crafts vendors will also have products for sale. It all opens on Friday from 5 pm–8 pm and continues

from 9 am–4 pm Saturday, and until 3 pm Sunday. $10; children younger than twelve are free, as are LSU and Southern University students. Details at the LSU AgCenter's Facebook page.

MAR 9th

PLANT POWER

BLOOMIN' ON THE BRICKS

Natchitoches , Louisiana

Bloomin' on the Bricks is a celebration of spring throughout Natchitoche's Downtown Historic District. While admiring thousands of tulips on display, you’ll nd an assortment of items needed to transform your garden and yard. Vendors from around the area will sell plants such as ferns, herbs, shrubs, owering baskets, and bedding plants as well as garden décor. Local music will be provided along with activities for children of all ages. 9 am–2 pm. Free. natchitoches.net.

MAR 14th

FLOWER POWER

ST. FRANCISVILLE IN BLOOM

FLORAL COMPETITION

Saint Francisville , Louisiana

Visit Jackson Hall at Grace Episcopal Church in St. Francisville to see the contenders for the "St. Francisville in Bloom" oral competition. Competitive teams worked together to gather and design arrangements inspired by locations

in West Feliciana Parish. Judging will take place at 3 pm, followed by a wine and cheese reception from 4 pm–6 pm. visitstfrancisvillela.com.

MAR 22nd - MAR 23rd

GREEN THUMBS

SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA

GARDEN CONFERENCE & EXPO

Lake Charles , Louisiana

e annual Southwest Louisiana Garden Conference and Expo is at the Burton Coliseum this year, featuring gardening, owers, trees, shrubs, garden accessories, books, demos, educational lectures, and general garden tools. Exhibitors and vendors will be available to assist with plant and garden needs. 9 am–5 pm. $3; free for children twelve and younger. swlmg.weebly.com/gardenexpo

For our full list of March events, including those we couldn’t fit in print, point your phone camera here.

“Nack-A-Tish”

Dining Shopping Melrose on the Cane Beau Jardin

Historic District

Cane River Lake

A Convening

BENEATH THE LOOMING THREAT OF CLIMATE CHANGE, LOUISIANA'S SPECIALTY CROP FARMERS ARE FINDING HOPE AS A COLLECTIVE

By Jordan LaHaye Fontenot

Last August, in the thick of Louisiana’s hottest summer on record, with two thirds of the state experiencing “Exceptional Drought” (the highest classification on the U.S. Drought Monitor)—leaders of the Louisiana Small Scale Agriculture Coalition (LSSAC) were conducting wellness checks.

“It was such a physically draining summer,” said Marguerite Green, Director of Producers and Sustainability at SPROUT, a New Orleans partner of LSSAC. “But it was also very emotionally draining. The impact of climate change on farmers’ mental health—I think it can sound esoteric when you say it like that—but if you think about it, the impact of drought, the impact of heat, of hurricanes; those things are all very tangible.

“So, we were doing calls to check in on farmers,” said Green. “And when we asked them what sort of support they needed—well the answer is almost always money, right?”

Farmers were losing their crops, and the crops they were harvesting suffered in quality. To save what was left, they had to invest extra money in increased watering—in some cases even installing small-scale irrigation systems and digging out wells. In November the LSU AgCenter reported that the cost of 2023’s drought and excessive heat was a $1.69 billion loss for the state’s agriculture and forestry industries.

Green and other representatives from LSSAC were quick to guide farmers to aid, including offering disaster grants—which distributed $25,000 to forty-three farmers statewide. But beyond financial assistance, farmers were asking for something else.

“What I thought was pretty profound, really striking,” recalled Green, “was that so many of the farmers were like, ‘While you’re at it, if there’s anyone else you’re getting on the phone who knows something about how to handle all this, or is feeling a little blue, or just wants to talk about it with other farmers, I’d love to connect.”

Leroy Conish, a farmer from Vacherie, Louisiana said it most clearly: “I think it would be great if you could find a way to get all of us together. We need a space to talk about this.”

“South Louisiana can look like this shining beacon of agriculture,” said Green. “But the reality is that we have an incredibly underdeveloped agricultural economy.” We aren’t growing enough food for ourselves, she emphasized. Of Louisiana’s roughly 30,000 farms, only about 2,000 of them are growing anything other than commodity crops like timber, sweet potatoes, sugarcane, soybeans, rice, and cattle—which will mostly be shipped to corporations across the globe. “I think we don’t recognize food crop production, designed to feed people here, as a part of our economic engine. And when you don’t recognize something as a potential economic engine, you don’t prioritize it with policy and investment.”

Darlene Adams Rowland, Executive Director of the Big River Economic Agricultural Development Alliance (BREADA)— which operates the Red Stick Farmers Market—pictured speaking with local farmers. BREADA is a partner of the Louisiana Small Scale Agriculture Coalition. Pictured are (left to right) Betty Chenier (Chenier Farms), Frank Fekete (Frank Fekete Farms), Darlene Adams Rowland, Eric Morrow (Morrow Farms), William Fletcher (Fletcher Strawberry Farm). Photo by Collin Ritchie, courtesy of BREADA.

Louisiana’s specialty crop farmers—a classification which encompasses growers producing everything from lion’s mane mushrooms and micro greens to basic fruits and vegetables—typically operate on smaller scales than farmers of mass-produced crops, usually less than one hundred acres. This is the population represented by the Louisiana Small Scale Agriculture Coalition, which was founded in 2022 as a collaboration between seven organizations around the state conducting community-based work in support of local food systems. Members include SPROUT, the Acadiana Food Alliance (AFA), the New Orleans Food Policy Action Council (NOLA FPAC), Louisiana Central, Market Umbrella (MU), Big River Economic Agricultural Development Alliance (BREADA), and Shreveport Green.

“All of us at the heads of these organizations have a long history of addressing really complex problems in the Louisiana food system in a really comprehensive way,” explained Bahia Nightengale, the Executive Director for Farm and Food at Louisiana Central, an economic development agency in Alexandria that offers farmer training opportunities and statewide food systems leadership programs. “Thinking about how we come together as LSSAC strategically—it’s very unique, because we all have slightly different missions. We all have slightly different ways of achieving goals we are working on. But we recognize that if we can own that space as an individual organization, and co-create some of this work collectively—that’s what’s giving us so much strength and momentum right now.”

The challenges LSSAC and its partner organizations aim to alleviate for small-scale farmers are systemic in nature. Facing the inherent economic risks associated with agriculture, with only minimal support from government programs designed to sustain large-scale commodity farmers, or a stable market to rely on—these specialty producers operate in an increasingly precarious state.

Most small farms are not considered bankable businesses, and are thus unable to access business capital or qualify for most USDA programs that rely on bank partners. Only in the last fifteen years has the USDA begun to significantly recognize the ways small farmers have been left behind and funnel resources towards crop production at a small, regional scale. “So, since that is all still relatively new and unrefined, there aren’t a lot of bridge-building technical assistance providers available to connect farmers to these opportunities,” explained Nightengale. “The programs still don’t provide the most needed resources and support mechanisms that would build

The World of Zydeco

their time dealing with lots of different personalities of different food buyers.” As for the average consumer shopping for groceries, they too have grown conditioned by the systemic industrialization and commodification of food to expect an endless supply of any product on demand at any time of year, for prices that don’t necessarily reflect the cost of the food—and without any understanding about or connection to the food’s source.

“People don’t realize that even purchasing conventional produce locally is always going to be better for our environment than purchasing an organic product from a million miles away that had to get shipped here,” said Green. Darlene Adams Rowland, the Executive Director of BREADA, added “I want people to understand how important supporting local producers is, not only to our state economy, but to the health of our bodies. Anytime you choose local, whether it’s shopping at the farmer’s market, or choosing a restaurant that supports local farmers, it makes a really big impact.”

sustainable small farms for increased local, regional, and national food security.”

In addition, the disconnect between small scale farmers and the 21st century consumer is vast. “Major buyers, such as wholesale buyers, schools, institutions, restaurants—they all got really used to ordering online from huge companies,” said Nightengale. “Now they don’t know how to talk to an individual farmer. And no farmer becomes a farmer because they want to go spend

Another major issue facing farmers who grow non-commodity crops is the lack of research available regarding their crops’ relationships to Louisiana’s specific climate and weather patterns. “That research is simply not in existence,” said Green. “There are not a lot of resources available to farmers, particularly in the Gulf South, having to do with climate.” Nor are there potential solutions to climate-related challenges, which have increased in number and intensity in recent years.

As a result of these many barriers, combined with a nationwide migration from rural areas and an aging farmer population, today there are not enough food-focused farmers in Louisiana to fully support a thriving local food system. Lauren Jones, the Urban Farm Di-

In January of 2024, specialty crop farmers from across Louisiana gathered at Chicot State Park for the inaugural Louisiana Farmers' Climate Convening—facilitated by the Louisiana Small Scale Farmers Coalition—to discuss their experiences and concerns regarding climate change. Photos by All Solid Things documentary film production company, courtesy of LSSAC.

Friday, March 8th, 5-7 pm

Open to the Public | Refreshments served Day’s

rector at Shreveport Green, runs a program where the organization purchases food from local farmers at market rate, then distributes it to neighborhoods who don’t have access to fresh produce. The problem is, there isn’t enough food to go around. “We have a few farmers, a handful, and they are coveted,” explained Jones. “We do everything we can to support them and make them happy so that they can continue to expand, and can continue to grow the food. The need outweighs the creation right now.” To help meet Northwest Louisiana’s need for nutrient-dense, local produce, Shreveport Green also runs a network of twenty-four community gardens.

Rowland added that often the markets in the state’s two most-populated cities, Baton Rouge and New Orleans, are sharing the same farmers. “So, farmers can’t add markets, because they’re already doing two cities,” she said.

These struggles and more are what the organizations that make up LSSAC hope to address together. And working as a coalition, rather than individual regional nonprofits, has enabled them to act as a more streamlined, comprehensive, state-wide resource for farmers seeking assistance.

“All the farmers we serve are busy farming,” said Rowland. “So they don’t have time to figure out grant opportunities, infrastructure loans, all the things they desperately need. So our organizations can try to fill that gap, and connect them to these federal resources, and some private ones too.”

“We try to support these farmers as businesses so that they can function in the business economy, and access that bank funding and USDA support that they need,” added Nightengale. “We also put our support behind farmer-led research—which might not be especially scientifically rigorous, but is absolutely creating applicable and duplicable studies about how we can continue to grow food effectively in the Louisiana climate, soil, and water conditions that we have.”

LSSAC is also advocating for farmers on a policy-level through the New Orleans Food Policy Action Council (NOLA FPAC)—which is fighting for more investment in small-scale growers through research, on the ground technical assistance, and federal grants. “And we’re also advocating for crop insurance,” said Elisa Munoz, Executive Director for NOLA FPAC. “It’s currently impossible for small scale farmers to get whole crop insurance. So, we’re advocating very intentionally for things like that, and just investment in this specialty farming in the same way that these larger commodity farms are being invested in.”

LSSAC’s biggest initiative thus far has been the organization of the first-ever Louisiana Farmers’ Climate Convening. The Convening—held in response to farmers’ expressed desire to commune with one another in the wake of last summer’s unprecedented drought—invited small-scale farmers from across the state to come together for two days of community-building, seed-sharing, workshops, wellness sessions, and lectures.

The event was held at Chicot State Park in Evangeline Parish this January on a weekend following a deep freeze weeks before, and followed immediately after by

White Lily I & II, Watercolor by Carol Creel, 12x12 each

Morning Glory I & II, Oil by Dana Mosby, 18x36 each

John and Betty Chenier farm a variety of produce on their forty-acre farm outside of Opelousas and are regulars at the weekly Red Stick Farmers Market in Baton Rouge. They attended the Louisiana Farmers' Climate Convening in January hoping to exchange knowledge with other farmers, and to help guide younger farmers to be successful in the future. Photo by Jenn Ocken, courtesy of BREADA.

extreme flooding.

“We had this beautiful gap of time, just right in the middle, where we were all able to come to Ville Platte together to talk about the things that had just happened, and the things that are about to happen,” said Jones. “And it just seemed so poignant.”

Since September, the leaders of LSSAC have been hosting farmer outreach and planning sessions for the event on a weekly basis—making it a priority to ensure it offered the connections and resources farmers wanted.

“Farmers would drop in,” said Green. “They’d be like, building things in the field. We had one day where three farmers were together, and they had their Zoom laptop open, and were like building a seed winnowing machine while they all listened to the planning call, and would just pop in to respond to our questions.”

The people who attended the Convening are likely not what most people imagine when they think of who a “Louisiana farmer” is. In a remarkable testament to who is invested in feeding Louisianans, the farmers of Louisiana’s specialty crop sector are representative of the great diversity of the state as a whole: Black, brown, Indigenous, white; young, old; queer, straight; women, men, non-binary. “There isn’t great ag census data about people who grow vegetables and fruit,” said Green, “but intuitively, I would say that the people who grow food in Louisiana tend to be more diverse than the rest of the general farming population.”

“Biodiversity is key,” noted Jones. “Our group of people just reflected the biodiversity that is present in all healthy, robust, and resilient systems in nature.”

The ways these identities intersect with being a farmer in Louisiana were acknowledged through affinity group breakouts right at the start of the convening—opportunities for farmers to connect with people who could truly understand their particular experiences. The next day, a similar breakout took place, allowing farmers working in the same region to interact and exchange knowledge.

“The best thing that came out of all of this was like, we actually need to help people build these bonds,” said Green. “Because that’s who’s with you when stuff hits the fan, when climate catastrophes happen, when a flood happens or a fire. In America, farming is very isolating, and I think this was an exercise that helped people build connections with people they identified with and lived beside. It helped people articulate, ‘How can we find hope together?’ ‘How can we build stronger community, and how can we slow this crisis?’”

Grief associated with climate change was a major topic of discussion, said Iriel Edwards, a young farmer from Boyce, Louisiana who attended the Convening. “There’s all this pressure. Everything you do matters, and there’s not enough time to get it right. There’s already so much that’s been lost.” She said that it can all induce a sense of paralysis for her. “It makes me afraid, and I don’t want to be afraid. The best ways to process all of this is to be around people who get it. To remind us that we have tools, like our ancestors used, to help through situations that are unknown. It all gives me hope.”

Betty Chenier, whose husband’s family has farmed fruits, vegetables, and herbs in St. Landry Parish for four generations, said she came to the Convening hoping to exchange knowledge with other farmers. “We’ve been in this business for twenty-one years,” she said. “If we can help other people with their issues, see if we can help each other. We’re struggling, too. The temperature shifts from ninety degrees to forty-five—we are going to have to really study these seed catalogs to find plants that can handle it.” She said she was encouraged by all of the young people in attendance at the Convening. “They are the next generation,” she said. “We need them.”

At the end of the first day of the convening, everyone gathered around the bonfire to enjoy a meal and decompress. “And there was this tangible … like you could reach out and grab a hold of the joy that had been accumulating all day as everyone got to know each other,” said Jones. “There was just so much pride in the community, and also a sense of unity and collective resiliency in the face of this omnipresent danger.” lssac.org.

adaptation to the region where it is grown.

Modern agricultural practices and the introduction of hybrid plants have made seed saving a less common practice, but it persists all the same in the dirt-encrusted hands of many small farmers and gardeners. I spoke to two such farmers who are maintaining a hold on local seed production in Louisiana—cultivating hope, as well as all kinds of funky, delicious peas and okras.

Louisiana Seed Savers

Iriel Edwards describes seeds as the “physical essence of hope,bundled up in the tiniest little thing.”

Edwards is a specialty farmer operating on nine acres on the outskirts of Boyce, where she grows vegetable and seed crops and tends various plant breeding projects on her farm, The Dancing Radicle. (That’s not a typo. While Edwards might have a few radical ideas, the farm is named for the first tiny root to emerge from a seed and push downward through the soil.)

The Radical Hope of Seed Saving

CULTIVATING A MORE BIODIVERSE WORLD USING NATURE'S TINIEST TOOLS

Story by Catherine Comeaux • Photos by Jordan LaHaye Fontenot

For millennia, seeds and the knowledge around how they are grown have passed from generation to generation— right down to someone’s uncle’s vegetable garden, or perhaps to your grandma’s seed stash in the deep freezer.

In recent history, seed saving has transformed from a widespread practice to a highly controlled business—with four major firms directing more than twothirds of worldwide commercial seed sales. The consequence of entrusting seed cultivation to these corporations is a loss of genetic diversity, and of our regionally

adapted seed varieties. As a result, the knowledge that accompanies growing regionally-specific seeds has been lost, too.

Seeds saved for replanting come from open-pollinated plants (pollinated by natural methods involving insects, birds, wind, and rain) which yield seeds that are genetically identical to their parents. This dependability of outcome is how seeds become heirlooms. Grandma’s heirloom cucumber seeds, with proper care, will produce cucumbers like Grandma used to grow. The seeds saved from a Garden Sweet Hybrid Cucumber,

which has been intentionally cross pollinated in a controlled situation, will not produce cucumbers as sweet.

Some slight variations can occur from season to season when cultivating heirlooms, but this is part of the fun of seed saving. Committed growers observe their heirloom plants closely for favorable variations like darker flowers, sweeter fruit, or resistance to drought. If they notice a favorable difference in one plant, they will save and replant from that plant hoping to repeat the variation. This process often leads to the development of new varieties and a plant’s gradual

After earning her degree in environmental science and entomology at Cornell University in 2020, Edwards craved a practical way to contribute to the work of developing Louisiana’s food systems and bettering the environment. She spent a few years working with Jubilee Justice in Alexandria—teaching fellow Black farmers an organic dry-land method of growing rice. Through this work of growing rice for the co-op’s seed, she slowly stepped up as a leader in the Louisiana seed-sharing community, organizing seed swapping events across the region.

“In working with seeds, there’s a critical community piece, and a deep relationship with the land that is important for me as someone who has moved around a lot,” Edwards explained. She is excited to be part of building a network helping to preserve the farming and growing traditions of her community, thereby regaining local food sovereignty—a movement aimed towards regaining local decision-making powers, especially in how we grow food.

To indicate the ways in which our current food systems are failing us, Edwards points to the high rate of diet-related illnesses in Louisiana and the degradation of our environment.

Modern agriculture, with its emphasis on productivity and market demand, has reduced the genetic diversity of our food crops as well as the native plant diversity in the lands being used for agriculture. Through seed saving, Edwards

Seed farmer Lilli Voorhies holding L’anse Grise Red Field Peas, a seed she discovered being farmed in Evangeline Parish that she is still researching.

counteracts this shrinking biodiversity by stewarding open pollinated crops with higher genetic diversity— allowing the plants to more readily adapt to local weather patterns, as well as to the greater fluctuations expected with climate change.

Further south in Lafayette, Lilli Voorhies of Bumble Prairie Growing is also paving the way to a healthier food system by growing more regionally-adapted, genetically-diverse crops and by educating people on how to save seed and grow their own food

Voorhies, who studied landscape architecture at the University of Louisiana-Lafayette, was drawn to farming while working for a non-profit collecting seeds and oral histories from backroads growers. She grows a reddish field pea she discovered during that time, a variety she has dubbed L’anse Grise Red Field Pea, the origins of which she is still researching.

Influenced by the work of anthropologist Virginia Nazarea, Voorhies points out that when we listen to the stories that accompany seeds we collect from others, we gain knowledge of the land and the culture that produced them. Nazarea’s book Cultural Memory and Biodiversity delineates the protocol for collecting these seed stories—a process called memory banking which aims to safeguard the knowledge surrounding our domesticated crops.

Horticulturalist and seed saving aficionado, John Coykendall has been using this memory banking technique for over forty years—seed saving between his home state of Tennessee and yearly visits to Washington Parish to collect heirloom seeds from local growers. At a recent Southern Garden Symposium in St. Francisville, he piqued the interest of growers with his stories of wash day peas, greasy beans, and leather

Building a Seed Saving Infrastructure and Community in Louisiana

Recognizing the current scarcity of locally-cultivated seeds in Louisiana, as well as resources on how to care and propagate them, Edwards and Voorhies are working together to aggregate their seed crops, increasing the availability of their regionally adapted seeds—a project that will require significant investments in infrastructure and land.

The two farmers recently built a zig zag seed winnower—which streamlines the task of separating seed from chaff. The small piece of vacuum-powered equipment, built using online instructions, cost $100 in materials, a fraction of the cost of a ready-built model.

Together with other small farmers and seed savers, Edwards and Voorhies are also working to create a comprehensive online resource in the form of a Louisiana Seed Growers website—which in addition to providing information, will also serve to connect seed growers across the Gulf South.

These savers of domesticated seed crops are often allied with the growing movement to maintain diversity in our wild native species, which too are threatened by modern agriculture coupled with long-standing preferences in landscaping. Voorhies, whose first large scale seed saving endeavor involved working with coastal prairie species, notes how native plants can be used by farmers to attract pollinators and to improve storm water infiltration.

Seed Saving Resources

Acadiana Native Plant Project, greauxnative.org

Louisiana Seed Growers, louisianaseeds.org

Sow True Seed, sowtrueseed.com

Southern Exposure Seed Exchange, southernexposure.com

Ujamaa Cooperative Farming Alliance, ujamaaseeds.com

Wild Ones

Greater Baton Rouge Chapter, greaterbatonrouge.wildones.org

Working Food’s Seed Program, workingfood.org/seeds

Right: Radish flowers, Easter Egg variety, going to seed in front of two beds of Kanamachi turnips, also beginning to flower, at Lilli Voorhies's Bumble Prairie Farm.

Photo: Dried roselle hibiscus seed pods, a Jamaican variety, from Lilli Voorhies's Bumble Prairie Farm.

Coneflower seedhead, from Meadow Creek Native Plants. Photo by Nikki Krieg.

How To Start Saving

If you want to start seed saving and you are already growing open-pollinated, heirloom varieties—start by marking the best-looking plants for saving seeds, then eat the rest.

If, on the other hand, you are new to growing, or you have no clue about the horticultural traits of the plant you bought at the local big box store—start by seeking out seeds from open-pollinated heirloom plants. You can find these from local growers, or by attending a seed swap. Ask lots of questions, so that you can learn where the seeds came from, how best to grow them, and even how to prepare the resulting plants for food, medicine, or clothing.

The public library systems in Lafayette, Orleans, and Livingston Parishes all have seed libraries at certain branches where you can actually check out seeds. They don’t expect you to return them, though several of them request you return the resulting excess seeds for sharing.

Locally-owned seed stores will usually carry heirloom seeds, as will many chains. But remember, for seed saving purposes, they must be open-pollinated. (Avoid hybrids. Yes, even those that might have “heirloom” in their trademarked names.)

There are several online sources for regionally adapted open-pollinated seeds. Southern Exposure Seed Exchange offers seed varieties that perform well in the Southeast. Sow True Seed in South Carolina sources seeds cultivated in the Southeast (Voorhies is one of their southernmost growers and provides Reverend Taylor lima beans and a regionally-adapted Mayan okra). Ujamaa Cooperative Farming Alliance has a unique feature that allows you to select seeds by their associated cultural cuisines.

Okra is a great starter plant for new seed savers. Edwards notes that it loves the Louisiana heat and is an amazing food and seed producer. Plants like okra, herbs, and beans require a dry method of saving seeds in which seeds are left to mature and partially dry right on the stalk.

Plants with wet fruits like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers require different methods. A fermentation process is involved in saving tomato and cucumber seeds, while most other wet seeds require a simple rinsing or soaking before being laid out to dry.

A seed swap organized by Iriel Edwards at the Louisiana Farmers Climate Convening at Chicot Park in January 2024. Read more about the Convening on page 40.

To improve viability, store your seeds in airtight containers in cool, dark, dry,

Dried dill seed, bouquet variety, from Bumble Prairie Farm.

Left: Inland Wood Oats. Right: Milkweed going to seed. From Meadow Creek Native Plants. Photos by Nikki Krieg.

How the “Carreaux” Oak Got Its Name

My Grandmother’s nickname was Carreaux.

In Cajun French, Carreaux means checkered … divided into squares—like a quilting pattern. The story goes that when my dad, Bob Thibodeaux, was young, he was best friends with my mother’s older brother, Tommy Wimberly. One day after school, my dad went home with Tommy, where he first laid eyes on a beautiful, dark-haired angel. Her name was Dorothy, although everyone called her Dot, and according to Dad, he fell in love instantly. He decided that day that he would marry Dot. There was a problem though, Dot intended to become a

nun. To immerse herself in the religious life, my mother left her home in Church Point to join the Grey Nuns of Cross, a working order of nuns who had been established in Gueydan, La during the 1950s in connection with St. Peter the Apostle Church. While living with the Grey Nuns Dot attended Gueydan High School, and Dad wrote and visited her whenever he could. His persistence eventually paid off. Dot left Gueydan, returning to her home in Church Point in time for her senior year of high school.

One day while paying a visit to his then fiancée’s home, Dad noticed a young live oak tree seedling

growing through a cattle guard. He pulled up the seedling, moistened the roots, and placed it inside his jacket. Noticing this, his soon-to-be motherin-law, Carreaux, convinced Dad to plant the oak seedling nearby, and pointed out a suitable location. Dad planted the oak, married Dot, and built a home right next-door to his in-laws, Eddie & Doris Wimberly. In that home, Mom and Dad would raise a family of eight children, including me. Along the way, Dad nurtured that live oak tree as it grew from a tiny seedling, into the massive tree that it is today. He named that live oak Carreaux in memory of Grandma Wimberly.

—Frank Thibodeaux, Bob’s Tree Preservation

Bob’s Tree Preservation

Making the Pawpaw Cool Again

NORTH AMERICA'S LARGEST NATIVE FRUIT IS HAVING A RENAISSANCE IN LOUISIANA

Story by Kristy Christiansen • Photos by Paul Christiansen

On a stroll last spring through hthe woods in North Louisiana’s Poverty Point World Heritage Site, my husband and I encountered a short, understory tree we didn’t recognize. Its burgundy flowers accentuated dark, green leaves that grew up to a foot long and widened at the end before turning in to the final point. A quick talk with the ranger on duty confirmed our suspicions. We had stumbled upon the elusive pawpaw tree.

The pawpaw (Asimina triloba) is the only tropical fruit native to the continental United States and the largest fruit native to North America. Its fruit has the outside appearance of an oblong, green

potato—the skin and large black seeds are inedible and even mildly toxic. The reward is found in its soft, pale-yellow flesh, which tastes somewhat like a banana and mango pudding. Foodies recommend squeezing the ripe fruit straight from the peel into your mouth, chilling and eating it like a custard, or pureeing to add into smoothies, ice cream, quick bread, or jam.

In any form, pawpaws are not only delicious but bring added health benefits. They contain three times the amount of vitamin C as found in apples. They are also high in potassium, iron, fiber, magnesium, and manganese, which helps support healthy bones, digestion, and

blood sugar control. Interestingly, recent studies have shown that shampoo made with pawpaw extract can essentially eliminate lice.

The pawpaw tree’s native range extends across the Mid-Atlantic, South, and Midwest. Native Americans have been eating them for centuries, and you can usually find them around Indigenous sites. Blaise Pezold, an avid pawpaw advocate who is developing a home orchard of his own, says that places where they are often found in Louisiana include Moncus Park and Vermilionville in Lafayette. “Natchitoches means ‘pawpaw eater,’ and there is a Pawpaw Island across from Vicksburg,” he said. “Their location

has to do with the soil type. Anywhere that you’ll find pawpaws, it’s very sandy with a lot of organic matter.”

Pawpaws require pollen from another tree in order to bear fruit. Flies and beetles help with the pollination process, and a new tree will initially yield fruit when it reaches four to five years old. After that, pawpaws produce fruit once a year. In Louisiana, that happens in late July and early August.

Unfortunately, today the tree and its fruit are incredibly difficult to find. Due to a short shelf life, the fruits are not sold in grocery stores. Commercial growers are few and far between, and those that do exist largely sell their crops to

breweries, which use the tropical-flavored pulp to create seasonal, specialty beers. A forage through a Louisiana forest on a sweltering July or August day may yield a sweet treat, if the bugs and heat don’t turn you away first. Of course, you could buy a few trees for your backyard, but the ticket price has skyrocketed (between $60–190 per tree) since the home gardening craze flourished during COVID-19 and locally grown fruits and vegetables grew in popularity.

In St. Bernard, on the banks of the Mississippi River, Pezold and the folks at Docville Farm are working to increase the pawpaw’s population here in Louisiana. Docville is the home base of the Meraux Foundation, a charitable organization founded by Arlene Meraux to improve the quality of life in St. Bernard through a variety of programs. It’s here where Anna Timmerman, Louisiana State University (LSU) AgCenter Extension Agent for St. Bernard and Plaquemines parishes, conducts studies on growing and harvesting fruits in the Gulf South for the Louisiana Citrus Innovation and Research program. Her successful application of new growing techniques has yielded thousands of pounds of citrus, which are then donated to local food banks.

These satsuma and orange trees line the walkway of the Docville greenhouse, which is used as an educational facility to teach the community about best practices in growing. The greenhouse also grows plants for coastal restoration programs, takes center stage during the annual Louisiana AgMagic on the River event, and showcases alternative crops.

“We try to show what you can grow in your yard other than just citrus,” said Timmerman. “Avocados, guava, black cherry, plums, peaches, loquats, and even pawpaws. We are trying to flood the community with food.”

Pezold, who serves as the Meraux Foundation’s Coastal and Environmental Program Director, works alongside Timmerman in what he refers to as the “Pawpaw Palace”— where they are exploring the tree’s potential as a landscaping option and versatile food source.

At Docville, in the FUSE (Fruit Under Screened Enclosure) Center, he and Timmerman have learned to recreate the pawpaw’s natural environment, providing sandy soil, high in organic matter, that is

watered regularly but can drain off quickly. As an understory tree that grows on the forest floor, the plant is also partial to shade.

“We don’t have a pawpaw culture in Louisiana, but it’s the ultimate farm to table food,” said Pezold, who added that Louisiana has only three people who grow the fruit commercially today. These farmers sell ninety-five percent of the crop to breweries, and the other five percent goes to farmers’ markets.

Still, in large part due to his and Timmerman’s work at Docville, there appears to be an emerging pawpaw “renaissance” in Louisiana. In December 2022, Pezold and the Foundation spearheaded the first annual symposium at Docville dedicated to the subject of the pawpaw and its cultivation in the Gulf South. Tickets went fast, selling out in three days, with attendees coming from Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida—ranging from backyard gardeners and brewers to chefs and farmers. When the second event was held this past year, representatives from the LSU AgCenter, Chef’s Brigade, SPROUT, and the Southern Food and Beverage Museum attended as well.

“There is a lot of renewed interest in indigenous foodways, native plants, and eating local from the public, chefs, and from sustainable farmers,” said Timmerman. “Louisiana has a rich cultural

Anna Timmerman, the LSU AgCenter Extension Agent for St. Bernard and Plaquemines parishes, and Blaise Pezold, the Meraux Foundation’s Coastal and Environmental Program Director— pictured in Docville Farms' "Pawpaw Palace," where they are exploring the tree's potential as a landscaping option and versatile food source in Louisiana.

heritage centered around seasonal eating, and seeing the pawpaw returned to its rightful place in the calendar of flavors is exciting. I think there’s a lot of potential for growers to add some pawpaws to their harvest lineup, especially as adaptable Southern cultivars are found and propagated.”

So the next time you find yourself walking the trails through a Louisiana forest, be sure to look for the tell-tale signs of this exceptional tree. If you time it right, maybe you’ll be lucky to find some fruit to sweeten up your hot summer day. And for those with a green thumb, look into investing in a couple of pawpaw trees

for your backyard, or attend the Meraux Foundation’s next symposium to possibly take home a few of your own.

merauxfoundation.org.

Find a pawpaw recipe in our Cuisine section on page 57.

MARCH 2024

Cuisine

WILD PECANS

54 THE COUNTRY'S OLDEST WORKING RICE MILL IS STILL KICKING IN NEW IBERIA, AND IT'S MAKING RICE THAT SMELLS LIKE PECANS // 56 A FOODIE'S NEWS COLUMN // 57 HOW TO MAKE PAWPAW PUDDING

MADE IN LOUISIANA

Konriko Rice

TODAY, AMERICA'S OLDEST WORKING RICE MILL TRANSFORMS

LOUISIANA-GROWN GRAIN INTO SPECIALTY, AROMATIC RICE

Story by Kristy Christiansen • Photos by Paul Christiansen

Louisiana is famous for its food and its cocktails, for its co ees and spices. But

After nearly fifty years in the business, Mike Davis knows a thing or two about rice. He and his wife, Sandy, former schoolteachers who once owned a cattle ranch, became rice millers in February 1975 when they bought Conrad Rice Mill in New Iberia.

“At the time I was the youngest rice miller in the United States,” said Davis. “Now I’m the oldest.” e distinction is greater than that, though, since Conrad Rice Mill is the country’s oldest working rice mill.

e tin-covered building, which commands an obscure corner a few blocks from New Iberia’s picturesque main street, dates back to the early 1900s and a German rice farmer named P.A. Conrad. Conrad grew his own rice, cut it by hand, and then would let it dry on the levee before hauling it to the mill in New Orleans. It would take him ve days by horse and buggy or three by steamer up the Bayou Teche to reach the Crescent City.

Growing tired of his commute, he built Conrad Rice Mill in 1912. Over time, his business grew, and he began buying grain from other farmers and selling the rice in smaller bags. In the 1950s, he launched the brand name Konriko Rice, an acronym for Con(rad) Ri(ce) Co(mpany). e German in him changed the C’s to K’s. After retiring, Conrad’s sons inherited the business and ran it until their eighties, nally selling in 1975 to Davis. At that time, only three New Iberia grocery stores still sold Konriko white rice, and the mill hadn’t operated in two years. Within ten days, Davis powered up the machines and had the milling operation up and running again. Since then, his business model has evolved. He’s expanded operations across the country and “sells a little bit everywhere, and not much anywhere.” “We slowly weaned away from white rice,” said Conrad, who now sells his Konriko’s Wild Pecan Rice—a highly specialized, aromatic, long grain, brown rice of the Della variety

where do all these products begin?

We (writer-photographer duo Kristy and Paul Christiansen) are on a mission to discover the origins of some of our most famous and unique locally-made products through the Country Roads series, “Made in Louisiana”.

Mike Davis, when he bought the country's oldest working rice mill in 1975, was the youngest rice miller in the United States. Still running the mill all these years later, he is now the oldest.

(also known as popcorn rice), that gives o an aroma like roasted nuts.

“I’m not a commodity man,” he said. “We’re moving toward value-added items, and we’ve branched out to hold our own. We’re working on the core items that sell the best.”

Today, Conrad buys all his grain directly from Louisiana farmers. He uses it not only for his Wild Pecan rice but also in his line of specialty seasonings, including his No Salt Creole Seasoning, his best seller Greek Seasoning, and his Hot’n’ Spicy Jalapeño All Purpose Seasoning— which he said is growing fast in the Midwest market. He also has a Gravy and Sauce ickener and recently developed a Bay Island Secret Sauce, a avorful sauce made from exotic peppers. All of his products are free of MSG, red or yellow dyes, and gluten.

Almost fty thousand people visit the Konriko Company Store and tour the Conrad Rice Mill every year. After showing a twenty-minute video, a tour guide walks visitors next door to view the actual mill. Our host was Laine Romero Condra, a fast-talking Cajun who joked she got the job because she was the only one shorter than the owner’s wife.

“I just love it when I walk in here and the machines are running,” said Condra, guiding our group inside the chilly, old building. “We mill about once a week, and they never tell me when they are going to run the mill, so it’s always a surprise.”

Condra stood on a platform near a scale replica of the mill, then opened the doors on the model to reveal several vials of rice on the inside. As she detailed the inner workings of the mill, she held out each vial to show us how the rice transforms through the process, beginning with the sheller/huller, which removes the outer hull from the rice.

“Whatever the sheller doesn’t take o , the paddy machine does,” said Condra,

pointing to the circa-1927 German machine standing next to us. “It can process 250 pounds of rice within a minute. is is the oldest machine we have in here.” She explained that the paddy machine was originally steam operated, but it was later converted to utilize a belt.

Next, she explained, the bran layers are removed by rubbing the grains against themselves in the pearling machine. If this process is carried out all the way through, you would end up with white rice. Konriko rice retains ninety to ninety- ve percent of the bran, retaining the health bene ts of brown rice. However by scoring the rice, instead of leaving all of the bran layers on, Konriko produces a rice that cooks as fast as white rice. e discarded rice bran is sold for livestock feed.

Finally, any broken grains are weeded out in the grading machines, then sold to breweries and as chicken feed. Once the milling process ends, the packing begins. Konriko rice is sold in bags from seven ounces to a hundred pounds, and it’s all packed in-house by the packing machines.

After the quick tour, visitors can sample the Wild Pecan rice and purchase any of Konriko’s products at the Konriko Company Store. To entice locals to stop by, Conrad also o ers Cuban sandwiches on Wednesdays and a new boudin sandwich on Tuesdays, made with a drizzle of his Bay Island Secret Sauce on French bread.

e Konriko Company Store and Conrad Rice Mill is located at 307 Ann Street in New Iberia.

e store is open Monday–Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm. Tours of the mill run at 10 am, 11 am, 1 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm, and cost $5 for adults, $4 for seniors over 62, and $3 for children 3–11.

LATEST IN TASTE Soupçon

A DASH OF DINING NEWS By CR Editorial Sta

We're excited to be reviving an old Country Roads tradition, Soupçon—a column of briefs noting some of the latest developments in the local food scene. Know some food news we need to be on top of? Let us know at editor@countryroadsmag.com.

Introducing . . .BABS

In perhaps one of the quickest turnovers in New Orleans dining history, Chef Nina Compton's beloved Bywater American Bistro o cially entered a new era this past January after a threeweek hiatus in service, re-emerging as the revamped BABS. e restaurant's aesthetic reincarnation lays a rustic elegant air over the industrial-chic space of the Rice Mill Lofts. And while many of Compton's best-loved dishes survived the transition (Wagyu beef lasagna, for instance), she's leaning into her Italian training for this new menu—presenting guests with an exciting selection of pasta-forward comfort food, prepared with her signature touch of elevation. ink carbonara with andouille and tru es, arancini with caviar and blackened octopus, covered in a sweet potato coconut pureé. Located at 2900 Chartres, BABS is open for dinner Wednesday–Sunday with seatings from 5 pm–10 pm. babs-nola.com

Regional Chefs Clean Up at the James Beard Awards

We in the South are well aware yearround that we are blessed with some of the best chefs and restaurants in the country—but when the James Beard Award semi nalists are announced at the end of January, we get the validating reminder that taste making gourmands across the nation tend to agree.

is year, New Orleans was represented with ve semi nalists in the Best Chef: South category: Melissa Araujo of Alma Café, Amarys and Jordan Herndon at Palm and Pine, Sophina Uong of Mister Mao, Arvinder Vilkhu at Saffron, and Marlon “Chicken” Williams of Chicken’s Kitchen in Gretna.

Shreveport's Hardette Harris also earned a semi nalist position with her takeout/catering business Us Up North, and Jackson, Mississippi's Hunter Evans of Elvie’s claimed a spot on the list, as well.

list for Best New Restaurant, and Robert LeBlanc of LeBlanc + Smith—who owns Sylvain, e Chloe, and e Will & the Way—is up for Outstanding Restaurateur. Vestige, our 2020 Small Town Chefs winner Alex Perry’s restaurant in Ocean Springs, is a semi nalist for Outstanding Restaurant e o cial nominees will be announced on April 3, and the winners will be announced at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago on June 10. jamesbeard.org

Basel’s Market opens in St. Francisville

Kalyn Lindsly Anderson’s fresh-forward restaurant Basel’s Market has plans for a grand opening on Commerce Street on March 8. Anderson grew up immersed in the world of food, as her family owned and operated beloved Baton Rouge grocery store Calvin’s Bocage Market. Her concept Basel's Market, named for her Australian Shepherd, started as a food truck, later opening as a brick and mortar on Highland Road in Baton Rouge.

When it came time to change locations, Anderson struggled to nd a new home for the restaurant in Baton Rouge that captured the cottage-y, homespun feel she had cultivated in the Highland Road spot. us, she landed in St. Francisville—quickly discovering the small-town charm that continues to delight visitors and locals, and realizing it suited her business and family perfectly. e menu at Basel’s o ers gourmet sandwiches, salads, dips, and other health-conscious staples in a bright, airy space decorated with vintage touches (like a wall containing Anderson’s personal collection of decorative plates).

Basel’s Market in the Country will hold its Grand Opening on March 8. Hours are Tuesday–Saturday from 8 am–4 pm. facebook.com/baselsmarket

Chef Cory Bahr Does Sushi

Louisiana and Mississippi chefs made appearances in other major categories, too. Jewel of the South in New Orleans is up for Outstanding Bar; while French Quarter grande dame Arnaud’s is in the running for Outstanding Hospitality. Chef Serigne Mbaye’s Senegalese restaurant Dakar NOLA is on the

Chef and restaurateur Cory Bahr, who won the Food Network show Chopped in 2012, has announced his next venture: a high-end sushi bar and omakase restaurant called Sushi Koko. Opening in a Monroe strip mall across the street from Bahr’s agship restaurant, Parish, Sushi Koko’s kitchen and sushi bar will be helmed by Head Chef Shuji Hirose, who is originally from Kyoto and previously made sushi for a Michelin-starred restaurant. Avoiding the kind of gimmicky, deep-fried specialty rolls popular in American sushi restaurants, Bahr says Sushi Koko will o er a legitimate omakase (chef-curated) experience, live- re yakitori cooking, and fresh Gulf seafood alongside specialty ingredients (like A5 beef) own in from Japan twice weekly. Learn more from the announcement by Chris Jay at stu edandbusted.com.

RECIPES

Pawpaw Pudding

SIMPLE AND SWEET, AND FRESH OFF THE TREE

Adapted from Sheri Castle's original recipe

Though Pawpaw expert Blaise Pezold—the overseer of the Mereaux Foundation's "Pawpaw Palace" at Docville Farms— insists that pawpaw fruits are best enjoyed straight off the tree (remove the seeds though! They are mildly toxic), this simple pudding recipe adapted from Sheri Castle's for the New York Times is a great way to incorporate the unique fruit and its distinct flavor into your baking repertoire. Read more about the "Pawpaw Renaissance" taking place in Louisiana on page 49.

Makes 12 servings.

Ingredients

2 cups sugar

1 1/2 cups all-purpose our 1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp. ground ginger

1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg

1/2 cup of butter, melted

3 eggs

2 cups (1 lb.) of pawpaw pulp

1 1/2 cup whole milk

1 tsp. vanilla extract

Whipped cream, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees, and grease a baking dish with butter or oil.

2. Combine rst 7 ingredients and whisk together in a large bowl.

3. In a separate bowl, combine eggs and pawpaw until smooth.

4. Whisk milk and vanilla into the wet ingredients, then add melted butter.

5. Combine wet and dry ingredients and stir.

6. Pour batter into baking dish.

7. Bake for 50 minutes, or until the pudding is rm in the center.

8. Allow to cool on a wire rack. Serve with whipped cream.

e inside of a pawpaw fruit. Photo by Paul Christiansen.

58 WHERE IT ALL BEGINS: WITH A

OUR SUSTAINABLE GARDEN

Thoughts on Seeds

THE TINY DROPS OF LIFE, FALLING FROM THE SKY, AND WHAT TO DO WITH THEM

Story by Jess Cole • Photos by Nikki Krieg

At the end of last summer, under the full harvest moon, I gave birth to my first child. I will never forget the sun-filled afternoon we brought him home to—ironweed and swamp sunflowers, full bloom, bowing deeply in the wind. I watched him see trees for the first time and feel the foreign breeze on his brand new skin. There are certain feelings that only the fervent sun, and its warmth, can provoke. All sounds were unprecedented: insect wings fluttering, toad chatter, and bird song. The next day he experienced the oddity of rain. Soon, the breezes vanished and alas, he felt, for the first time, the thick humidity that defines southern Louisiana. For weeks I watched, overwhelmed, as he discovered this earth. Every day, every moment, was a new type of life to gain and catalog in his sweet, tiny mind.

ese memories have been on my mind, hearkening to my annual emotions surrounding spring. New life everywhere—intense, all consuming. And somehow, year after year, it always feels as though I’m experiencing it for the rst time. Each year I notice a hundred new details in my garden, our woods, the greenhouse—things that have never caught my eye or ear before. Certain sounds are sharper than last year, tiny owers more fragrant than ever, shades of green more pronounced than I remember. ese early days of March, rousing with life, are a great time to talk about the tiny thresholds of life, the little beginnings: seeds. ere is so much to say about seed. We could dedicate an entire column to seeds alone. Seeds hold history. Seeds hold community. Seeds bless our table. Seeds fall from the sky. ey are everywhere. I’ll narrow in on

some seed thoughts that are on my mind, as of late, as I spend day after day shu ing through my porch fridge of seeds, seeding within my greenhouse, moving around seedlings that volunteered themselves in my garden beds, and collecting the remaining seed heads from last year’s perennial blooms.

Sourcing Seed

Historically, seed came from within your community. e sharing of seed was an anthropological act—seed spread with each generation, in the local markets, within the church, naturally on its own with the help of fauna and wind.

In today’s world, which is a lot smaller with communities more dispersed, the Internet has become a valuable resource for seed. is can be great, if approached

Native clematis going to seed.

with the right mindset. It's important to source seed as close to home as possible. Louisiana is a unique place. If you purchase seed from companies based in North Carolina or Maine, you will likely receive instruction that is not suited for humid subtropical southern Louisiana. We are in a special spot: in nite days of sunshine, lots of rain, a continuous growing season, burdensome heat. Say you purchase seed from Minnesota (which I do often! ank you Prairie Moon Nursery)—even if the plant is native to both Minnesota and Louisiana, it's likely the seed won’t be as successful when brought here, because it's already well-adapted to the geographical environment of the upper Midwest. For this reason, I take most seed packs and their instructions with a huge grain of salt and defer to knowledgeable mentors and friends who have had previous experience with such seed.

A more sure re way to success is to nd seeds within your immediate communities, to receive them directly from someone else’s experienced hands.

When it comes to native single species seed in particular, they remain hard to come by here in Louisiana. We are in great need of Louisiana seed companies offering diverse and plentiful stock. In the meantime, we look to neighboring states for quality native seed when we can’t access within the community.

All that said, experiment and keep our environment in mind. e greatest thing to me about seeding in Louisiana is that you can break a lot of “seed rules” and more often than not get more ower and fruit yield than what that seed packet promises. Again, life almost never stops growing in southern Louisiana!

Rules on Seeding

ere are no hard rules in nature, and seed is one of my favorite examples of this. ere are, though, some

guidelines that might increase your odds of success.

e problem I most often encounter when seeding is seeding too deeply. I nd there is a tendency to throw a lot of soil on top of a seed, when most of the time a seed can simply be placed atop the soil. A decent portion of seeds need light to germinate. When a seed is sowed too deeply, it can be deprived of the light needed to sprout. When it comes to thicker seeds, you can always defer to the old garden rule “sow at a depth equal to the seed’s diameter”. But more often than not, the best thing for the seed is light (sun!). So, simply let the seed lie atop the soil.

When we think of seeds, we can sometimes get caught up in these “rules” of planting. Instead, I encourage you to pause and look to nature, our greatest teacher. You can follow that germination code on the packet of seeds, but you can also observe the natural behaviors of seed in your garden and in the wild to tell you everything. In most cases, the ower blooms, the seed falls. It rests on the soil for months. Temperatures shift, rain pours, seed sprouts. So, don’t overthink it. Drop seed onto exposed soil and walk away. Let the wind and insects bury it. Let the winter cold take responsibility for germination. Look to natural systems, and you’ll usually nd the answers.

Find more information on seeds in our feature story by Catherine Comeaux on page 44.

An iris seed sprouting.

March Plant Spotlight: Wild Azalea

Rhododendron canescens: I grew up with these growing along the ridge of the clear sandy creek that circles my family home. Deciduous, unlike their evergreen and very popular Asiatic relatives that are symbolic of the South, the blooms burst open before it leaves out, causing total drama in the woods and in your garden. For me, the pale pink blooms herald spring. ey are also a great source of early nectar for pollinators. Wild Azaleas are wonderful as a specimen plant, a hedge, as a pair anking a gate, the list goes on!

—Jess Cole

Wild Azalea; photo by Nikki Krieg.

St. Francisville Beautiful

Story by Jordan LaHaye Fontenot • Photo by James Fox-Smith

“There’s a psychology to flowers,” said David Parker, a floral designer in St. Francisville and owner of Stems Boutique Florist on Commerce Street. “Just seeing flowers, it has been established, can reduce stress and bring joy.”

It’s a philosophy that inspires Parker’s work as a orist, but also his vision for his community. As Chairman of the nonpro t organization St. Francisville Beautiful, Parker joins a cadre of other invested St. Francisville residents and business owners in the project of adorning the charmed, historic town with a “supergarden”.

e concept originally came from Mayor Robert “Bobee” Leake back in 2021. At the time, St. Francisville was experiencing an uptick in tourism driven by the pandemic-era demand for travel experiences in less-crowded locales. “People were looking to experience something, but do it safely,” said Parker. St. Francisville’s distinct small-town character and historic intrigue—o ering a small selection of boutique overnight accommodations, chef-driven restaurants, and high-end shopping—rose in pro le overnight.

Leake approached Parker and four other business owners in hopes of forming a committee dedicated to polishing up the town’s public spaces—“bring some blooms into view, just add to our existing charm,” said Parker. e group started by hanging twenty baskets in the center of town. Since then, the project has expanded to include a dozen town ower beds, ten town planters, tree plantings, new town signage, and almost sixty hanging baskets. In 2023, they formalized the e ort by forming the nonpro t.

“It just kept growing and growing,” said Parker. “People wanted to be a part of it. And what we have now is really an organization that truly belongs to the community. e response has been wonderful because this is a community that really sees the value every single day—to the parish, to the tourists who visit, and of course to the residents.”

Ongoing projects such as bi-annual basket plantings, regular upkeep of beds, and tree plantings demonstrate the collective aspirations of the organization—drawing out volunteers and supporters from all corners of town. e local garden club regularly lends a hand, as do youth organizations such as the West Feliciana Junior High Beta Club, who recently assisted in replanting beds damaged by the recent January freeze. e Baton Rouge landscaping company EdgeForm has donated materials, and local business-owners such as Don and Susan Charlet of the Corbel have stepped up as community partners, assisting in funding various landscaping projects. “ e town itself is a partner,” emphasized Parker. “All of these people come together to make it happen.”

e stunning result showcases the impact something as simple as owers and greenery can bring to public spaces, emphasizing the town’s existing beauty. “As you go through town, exploring its history and architecture, you’ll have the high visuals of the hanging baskets, the historic canopy of the live oak trees, our town beds on the ground level,” said Parker. “Even if you’re just skirting on the edge of town, we’ve got wild ower gardens planted along the highway. We’re really trying to create this garden throughout town, with all of these di erent visual levels.” e goal, Parker added, is to continue expanding: more owers, all around town.

In a town recognized nationwide for its historic gardens and ancient oaks; and regionally for its volunteerism and tight-knit community—such a collective project as beauti cation through gardening couldn’t make more sense. “ is is the perfect community merger,” said Parker. “And we’re just getting started.” stfrancisvillebeautiful.com.

e St. Francisville Beautiful watering truck, which residents and visitors might see ambling around town to ensure the hanging baskets are always well watered and thriving. Pictured from left to right are St. Francisville Mayor Robert "Bobee" Leake, Tyrone "Popeye" Davis, and Mike Snowden.

TRADITIONS

At the Heart of Lent, a Feast

THE SICILIAN TRADITION OF SAINT JOSEPH'S DAY, AND HOW IT IS CELEBRATED IN LOUISIANA

Story by Kristy Christiansen • Photos by Paul Christiansen

After the pageantry and revelry of Mardi Gras, Louisiana’s Catholics descend into a solemn season of fasting known as Lent.

But each year, these quiet and reflective forty days are interrupted by a feast in honor of St. Joseph, Mary’s husband and the earthly father figure for the child Jesus. On the days leading up to March 19, elaborate altars arise in homes and churches across South Louisiana, piled high with

breads and pastries and wine and fruits and vegetables—every culinary indulgence you might imagine, except for meat.

Legend has it that the tradition of St. Joseph Altars dates back to Sicily in the Middle Ages. Sandra Scalise Juneau, author of Celebrating with St. Joseph Altars , says that oral traditions place the time frame somewhere in the twelfth century. After a period of abundance, Sicilians experienced a devastating drought that decimated

crops and depleted food for both people and livestock. Sicilians turned to their patron saint, San Giuseppe (St. Joseph), for intercession. The rains eventually came, ending the drought and bringing relief to the people. Once the crops were harvested, Sicilians showed their gratitude to the humble carpenter by holding a feast in his honor and then sharing with those in need.

Through the years, this tradition grew and evolved. The creative dis -

plays of vegetables, fruit, and flowers came to represent, according to Juneau, abbondanza —"the abundance of faith, hope, and love with which the devout Sicilians had been blessed.”

Fast forward to the late 1800s, when extreme poverty forced millions of Sicilians to leave their country for opportunities elsewhere. Lured by the promise of work and the hope of a better life, the majority came to America, and many found

The St. Joseph Altar at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church

their way to South Louisiana. As with other immigrant groups, the people brought their traditions to this new land. According to Juneau, the earliest St. Joseph altars in Louisiana were found in the homes of Sicilians living in Orleans, St. Bernard, Jeff erson, and Tangipahoa parishes. By the 1920s, the St. Joseph Day celebration was a fi xture in Louisiana.

After World War II, Catholic churches began participating in the tradition as well, inviting the community to contribute and gather around larger, even more extravagant altars. In 2023, fi fty church parishes and schools (and even a bowling alley) within the Archdiocese of New Orleans welcomed the public to take part in their feasts. Many off ered a meal to visitors or sent them home with a gift bag of fava beans, Italian fi g cookies, and a St. Joseph prayer card. At the same time, Sicilians across the city opened their homes to relatives and friends to come and enjoy their family altars.

“When I was growing up, my Sicilian grandmother always cooked the St. Joseph meal, but she never had an altar. As a kid, I was enthralled by it, and I have such a devotion to the Holy Family,” said New Orleanian Maria Guastella Held. “Th en, we were selling our house. Th ey say if you bury a St. Joseph statue upside down, your house will sell. I did that, and I promised St. Joseph that I would build him an altar if the house sold. It sold in a week, and the very fi rst thing we did was [host] a St. Joseph altar in our new home.” Th at was in 2000, and Held has been preparing altars nearly every other year since then.

the individuals who create the display, the traditional St. Joseph altar is built in three tiers to symbolize either the Holy Family or the doctrine of the Holy Trinity, the belief that God exists as three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Th e top tier is dedicated to St. Joseph, featuring a statue or image of him, often surrounded by fl owers and candles. Th e other two tiers hold the array of food embellished by fl owers, candles, images of religious fi gures, and sometimes a basket where visitors can place handwritten petitions.

Held’s husband assembles the three tiers for their altar. She and her daughter, Amanda, prepare all the main dishes, and her sister, Rosaria, oversees the baking. “It’s a labor of love,” said Held. “A lot of work goes into it. It’s incredibly diffi cult and exhausting, but I miss the years when I don’t have it.”

Much of the food displayed on an altar is symbolic of important Christian events or items especially signifi cant to Sicilians. Lemons, for instance, are abundant in Sicily, and represent hospitality. In Catholic tradition, they are also a symbol of fi delity. Tradition has it that if you steal one, you will fi nd a husband or wife. Wine reminds us of the miracle Jesus performed at the wedding at Cana, when he transformed water into wine. Baked fi sh signifi es the day he miraculously fed thousands with only two fi sh and fi ve loaves of bread. A dish made with breadcrumbs called “Mudica”—which is traditionally served with pasta con le sarde— represents carpenter’s sawdust, and fava beans (locally known as “lucky beans”) are said to have been the only crop to survive the drought, and the

Although each altar is as unique as St. Joseph Altar at St. Catherine of Sienna Catholic Church

food that sustained the Sicilians until St. Joseph’s rains came.

Breads are the most iconic additions to the altar, braided and baked into whimsical shapes, from hammers and saws to doves and shellfi sh. Occasionally, a bit of Louisiana fl air is added in the shape of alligators. Th ere is no shortage of Italian biscotti, cookies, and cakes. Meat is always notably absent from the altar, in abidance of Lenten abstinence.

When asked about her altar, Held described the food in mouthwatering detail, “Th ere is the main dish of Pasta Milanese. I make six to eight pounds of pasta. Th en all the vegetables—cabbage, broccoli, caulifl ower, eggplant. Everything is fried and then put into a frittata. Th ere’s also stuff ed artichoke and baked fi sh, and then all the sweets and pastries—the cuccidati (fi g cookies), sesame seed cookies, and cakes in the shapes of a bible or a cross. We buy the pignoccata (fried pastry mounds) from Angelo’s Bakery.”

Traditionally, before the St. Joseph altar is blessed and a meal is shared, a Tupa-Tupa (KnockKnock) ceremony takes place, reenacting the story of Bethlehem and Jesus’ birth. Children are chosen to represent the Holy Family and any additional saints or angels. Th ey then proceed to knock on three doors. At the fi rst two, they are turned away, but the third door is opened wide and the “family” is invited in to enjoy the feast. Th e priest then blesses the altar and food is served to the Holy Family and saints. Only after they have fi nished

their meal are other guests allowed to eat.

“Th e whole purpose of the St. Joseph altar is the sharing of blessings received in thanksgiving for relief from famine,” said Juneau. “Since the food has been blessed, there is never any waste of food. In most homes, after the blessing, the meal is shared with family, neighbors, and invited guests, and much of the food is distributed through church parishes to those in need. For the larger St. Joseph altars, hosted by organizations or churches, there is usually a designated charity for which the food is packaged to be delivered.”

Th is year’s Feast of St. Joseph will be celebrated on and around March 19—check your local Catholic Church’s calendars to learn about how they will be celebrating. Don’t miss New Orleans’s other St. Joseph’s Day-associated events too, including the St. Joseph’s Day parade on March 16 and Super Sunday, when Black Masking “Mardi Gras” Indians dance through the streets of New Orleans, on March 17.

Super Sunday always takes place on the Sunday closest to St. Joseph’s Feast Day, a tradition going back to when, during the season of Lent, Black Masking “Mardi Gras” Indians would reenact their rituals and their dances at night. When the Sicilians came to New Orleans, the historically Black Catholic Church in Tremé, St. Augustine, welcomed the immigrants into their community and congregation—joining in on the St. Joseph’s Day celebrations. Today the Black Masking

“Mardi Gras” Indian tradition of Super Sunday is held on the Sunday preceding St. Joseph’s Feast Day.

For more history on St. Joseph altars, with instructions and recipes to make your own, check out Juneau’s book, Celebrating with St. Joseph Altars , available at lsupress.org. You can also contact Juneau directly at 1ssj@att.net or (985) 630-8017 to receive a signed copy. •

St. Joseph Altar at Holy Name of Jesus School.

Glory Be

A CRANKY CHURCH LADY FROM LAFAYETTE GOES SHERLOCK HOLMES

By Chris Turner-Neal

The first sentence of Glory Be, the first in a new series of mystery novels by Danielle Arceneaux, is “Glory Broussard was tired of waiting.” Neither Glory nor the reader has to wait long: in the first few paragraphs, Glory emerges as a character. Formerly Miss Lafayette (Colored Division), now a cranky church lady working as a small-ball bookie out of the local CC’s Coffee, Glory steps into the world without hesitation as a relatable, vivid, hilarious protagonist. The plot moves along as fast as the character development: within the first few pages Glory’s best friend Sister Amity, an uncloistered nun with a wild past, is discovered strangled.

Glory pitches a fit at the crime scene, causes a commotion at the funeral, and raises hell with the investigators. Confident that the initial determination of suicide is mistaken, Glory begins her own investigation, with the reluctant support of her daughter Delphine, in town for the funeral and to lick wounds after a matrimonial spat.

Our protagonist is no Miss Marple: she falls down, screws up, misallocates blame, gets recognized, and prickles at everyone. If the traditional mystery-novel sleuth is a stiletto, Glory is a blunt instrument, beating at official indifference and red herrings while shouting that she won’t let her friend’s death go unavenged. I absolutely loved her, even if I don’t think I would have the energy to deal with her in real life.

Part of the book’s strength is that it succeeds as a novel. As we follow Glory along her journey, we learn more about her past, which in turn explains why the murdered Sister Amity was so dear to her and why she cannot let the “suicide” go. Divorced and depressed, Glory finds a new purpose in her investigation of Amity’s death, getting her feet back under her and finding herself with a more urgent reason to get out of bed than her feuds at the women’s group.

We also explore the complicated character of Delphine— who acts as Glory’s “Watson” after returning to Lafayette at a moment of crisis in her own life, even as her mother fusses at her (and fusses at her, and fusses at her…). If the novel sometimes feels a little crowded (mystery and self-discovery and mother-daughter relationships and an ill-advised flirtation and older women being dismissed by powers that be and hoarding and the potential difficulties of interracial marriage and…), it’s in part because Arceneaux’s publisher is as eager for more Glory as her readers will be, and a second book is due for release in late 2024. She’s got a series to set up.

Local readers will also enjoy watching Glory operate in a recognizable Greater Lafayette. Meche’s Donuts, Ambassador Caffery Parkway, having to drive to Jennings in the rain: it’s all there. You don’t need southwest Louisiana cred to enjoy this book, but it’s an extra treat for people who have moved around in the world Arceneaux describes. Similarly, the book will be funny for any reader, but some jokes will hit harder for people who’ve lived here: for example, passing reference is made to a woman from New Iberia who got drunk, fell into the bayou, and was attacked by an alligator. External readers may understand intellectually that “Louisiana Woman” is the worthy competitor of “Florida Man,” but those who have lived here and have actually seen similar headlines will nearly collapse in giggles.

One of the benefits of this book-reviewing gig is that I get books for free, which allows me to bestow on Glory—and Arceneaux—this accolade: I’ll pay full cover price for Glory’s next adventure. • simonandschuster.com.

BOGS IN THE BASIN

The Crosby Arboretum

PICAYUNE'S NATIVE PLANT PARADISE IS A REVOLUTIONARY SHOWCASE OF WHAT HAPPENS WHEN NATURAL HABITAT MEETS INNOVATIVE LANDSCAPE DESIGN

By Mimi Greenwood Knight

“We like to say we’re locally obscure and nationally famous,” Pat Drackett, Director of the Crosby Arboretum, said of the 104-acre plant preserve in Picayune, Mississippi. That national recognition includes an American Society of Landscape Architecture honor award for the Arboretum’s design—which upon first glance appears to consist of meandering trails through incidental forest and pasture, but is in reality a meticulously curated native-plant conservatory. And while national botanists and conservationists flock to this outdoor classroom each year, it’s surprising how little the “locals” know about Crosby.

“People see it as just a bunch of paths on a pretty piece of property, but the reason it's a pretty piece of property is the master plan, which focuses on keeping things natural and native,” Drackett said. The property just off I-59 in Picayune serves not only to preserve, protect, and display the precious ecosystem of the Pearl River Drainage Basin, but to educate the public about the unique plant species native to South Mississippi and Louisiana. Those plants include over three hundred species of indigenous trees, shrubs, wildflowers, and grasses—many of them rare, threatened, or endangered. Visitors to the property will discover several native pitcher plant bogs, as well as many edible and medicinal plant varieties.

History of Crosby Arboretum

The Crosby Arboretum was first established in the early 1980s as a living memorial to the late L.O. Crosby, Jr, the longtime owner and general manager of Crosby Forest Products Company in Picayune who possessed a deep love of nature and wildlife. After his death in 1978, the Crosby family began developing what was then the family strawberry plantation into an interpretive center for native plants. With the help and collaboration of Louisiana State University and Mississippi State University, they ultimately dedicated sixty-four acres of exhibits educating on indigenous plant communities—a revolutionary approach to arboretum planning that balanced natural habitat and planned design to celebrate local native flora by preserving, enhancing, and even re-creating regional ecosystems.

Over the years, agriculture departments at MSU and LSU continued to offer input on landscape design and ecosystem development, and in 1986 the arboretum was dedicated to public use. The property is now owned and operated by MSU and is a vital part of The Mississippi Gulf Coast National Heritage Area.

Pinecote Pavilion, by Lana Gramlich.

While the Arboretum as a whole consists of 104 acres, only sixty-four are currently open to the public—where native plants are displayed in three habitat exhibits, including: savanna, woodland, and aquatic. In addition, the MSU Extension Service maintains seven hundred associated acres for longterm research under the Crosby umbrella.

“It’s amazing to think of the people who had the vision for this property but never got to see it completed,” Drackett said. “People like former directors, Bob Brzuszek and Edward Blake, and even the Crosby family, had the vision for something that had never been done before. And now we have the first fully realized, ecologically designed arboretum in the United States right here in Picayune.”

Experiencing Crosby Arboretum

Perched alongside Piney Woods Lake—which itself features native water plants in their natural setting, the Arboretum’s most iconic manmade structure is Pinecote Pavilion. Designed by award-winning architect E. Fay Jones, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, the dramatic open-air structure is the darling of many a Mississippi tourism publication and has been the setting of weddings, classes, conferences, artistic performance, social gatherings, and Crosby’s annual Strawberries and Cream Festival.

Crosby’s annual calendar is packed with educational programs, including plant ID classes taught by professors from MSU, LSU, and elsewhere. Event Coordinator Barbara Medlock frequently organizes recreational opportunities to draw adults and kids to the site—including courses in jewelry making, pine-needle basket weaving, beekeeping, glassblowing, composting, eco-friendly gardening, and blacksmith and metalworking. There’s yoga in the pavilion, field day events for area schools and home school groups, and plant walks with renowned regional botanists such as Dr. Charles Allen, Dr. Wayne Morris, and Heather Sullivan of the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science.

The Piney Woods Heritage Festival each February features exhibits and demonstrations of traditional skills once practiced in this area such as blacksmithing, quilting, spinning, and basket-making, with live musical performances, speakers, and more. And the annual BugFest each October encompasses two days of hands-on learning about the environment, ecosystems, and wildlife of Mississippi’s Piney Woods Region with insect-related displays, interactive exhibits, games, and crafts.

“We talk about our early influences around here a lot, each sharing what first got us interested in gardening or botany,” Drackett said. “We want this to be a place where a child, or even an adult, can come and have a spark ignited in them. Maybe they just come here to learn about jewelry making or basket weaving, but they leave with lessons in becoming better stewards of the plants and habitat of South Mississippi and Louisiana.”

Membership to Crosby Arboretum starts at $35 for non-students and includes membership in the American Horticultural Society’s Reciprocal Admissions Program, with free or reduced admission at 345 partner gardens across North America. Membership also comes with borrowing privileges at the arboretum’s library of books on native plant gardening, wildflowers, landscape design, plant foraging, medicinal plants, ethnobotany, “household” botany, and more. And the arboretum gift shop offers nature-based items from local artisans and operates a year-round native plant sale. • crosbyarboretum.msstate.edu

Pink Honeysuckle Azalea by Pat Drackett; Southern Blue Flag Iris, Flame Azalea, Pitcher plant bog, all by Lana Gramlich.

Sponsored by Tangipahoa Parish Tourism

Birds of Prayer

ARTIST MARY

LEE EGGART WEAVES

By Jordan LaHaye Fontenot

IALLEGORIES OF THE NATURAL WORLD

nherent in Mary Lee Eggart’s verdant body of work is an underlying sense of order. Within compositions blooming and breathing with wild, gorgeous life are sequences and symbols, interactions and intersections—all characteristic of nature’s miraculous sense of organization, and mankind’s ancient efforts to make sense of it.

In a style reminiscent of the illuminated manuscripts of the Middle Ages, Eggart laces blue birds in morning glories and frames iris in bluebottle flies—all in the remarkably simple interest of illustrating nature’s expression of the color “Indigo” (Spectrum, 1999). Imagining earthly reflections of the spiritual world’s angelic hierarchies, according to Catholic tradition, she designates flocks of white birds as each their own choir: whooping cranes as seraphim, snow owls as cherubim, mute swans as Thrones (Choirs of Angels, 2001). From her own allegorical system—informed as it is by traditional iconographic symbols, as well as her own—she designates various birds as representative of vices and virtues, reflecting Giotto’s frescoes in the Scrovegni Chapel (Allegories of Virtue and Vice, 2003). When adorning her collection of birds and their courting rituals, she uses flora imbued with associations of matrimony. Lilacs, for example, represent love’s “first emotion” and flame vine, its passion— both flowers offering nectar to the diving ruby-throated hummingbird (Nuptial Dance, 2005).

Though the frameworks offer an infinite set of possible lenses through which Eggart might work, the subjects of her colored pencil and watercolor pieces are consistent: flora, fauna, and faith. These threads run deep for the artist, whose lineage includes a mother who directed an arts and crafts program and a father gifted in drawing and design. Her uncle was the esteemed Louisiana painter and educator William Moreland, known

for his abstract depictions of the region’s wild landscapes, which were often heavily influenced by religious iconography. From an early age she was influenced by her grandfather Fred Moreland, a botanist. Her 1997 collection titled The Botany Lesson is a tribute to his lessons on looking past physical beauty in nature to see the true wonder: how it all fits together, the symbiosis of it. It was her grandmother, Hilda Martinez Moreland (also an artist), who instilled in Eggart her deep Catholic spirituality.

Art was a part of her life “from the time of my first consciousness,” she says. But it all started to come together when she was an undergraduate at LSU, studying printmaking. “I started using images of plants and animals, in many cases much more abstract that what I do now. But my interest was always in the natural forms. That’s just what I was attracted to.” The birds became the centerpiece in graduate school, she says. “I think there’s something that we’re all attracted to about birds. The fact that they can fly. The great variety of their form, and how many different kinds there are. I think it just kind of focused down to that.”

Courses in late medieval and early Renaissance art as well as Christian iconography sparked Eggart’s initial interest in the possibilities of art as a symbolic visual language, introducing her to masters like Jan Van Eyck, Robert Campin, and Pieter Bruegel the Elder. But she began to truly develop her catalog of symbols later, during lunch breaks while working as a cartographer in LSU’s geography department. (Eggart says she has never brought her map making knowledge into her art as of yet, though she has plans to in the future.).

“I’d spend my breaks in LSU’s library, looking up— and this was before the Internet—birds,” she says. “I would be in the birds section of the stacks, and just look for unusual birds and birds I thought I might like to use. And I would go to the section on Christianity and symbolism, and just found some wonderful resources describing symbols from the last two thousand years in art. I loved that time there.” Though most of Eggart’s symbols are from Christian traditions, she says she often turns to other cultures and creeds to explore a range of interpretations of the natural world.

Describing how the symbols work in her 2022 painting “No Greater Love Than This,” which references the gospel verse John 15:13 “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends”—she points to the pomegranate at the center. “There are many symbols associated with the pomegranate. But the one that really struck me was the idea that it has been broken open, symbolizing Christian love, open to the needs of all.” The fruit is surrounded by a crown of thorns, reminiscent of the Catholic symbol of the “Sa-

cred Heart of Jesus”—“representing the love of Christ, open to all humanity”. From there, she says, she reached into her trove of symbols to enrich the composition: European goldfinches, whose faces, according to legend, are stained from attempting to ease Christ’s pain by pulling the thorns from his head. English ivy fills in the spaces, representing a devotion to friendship. And Peruvian lilies bloom; symbols of patience, empathy, respect, humor, understanding, and commitment.

Eggart’s work has long served as a mechanism for her own spiritual meditation, a way to explore concepts and traditions like the Beatitudes, the Trinity, and Novenas. “More recently,” she said, “I am digging into things that I’ve been studying, or say, a homily at Mass that strikes me.” Currently, she is working on a collection of paintings inspired by her experiences in Eucharistic Adoration—a designated time for contemplative prayer within the Catholic faith. •

Find Eggart’s work at Baton Rouge Gallery and LeMieux Galleries in New Orleans. In December 2024, BRG will showcase her newest collection. Learn more at meggart.startlogic.com.

Artwork by Mary Lee Eggart.

Bottom left corner: “Light,” (2024)

Top right corner: “No Greater Love Than This” (2022), “Novena to St. Gobnait for the Bees” (2019).