LA Boomers March and April 2022 by nola family magazine & nola boomers magazine

March/April 2022

Ready to Date Again? Graying Gracefully Daniel Gill Thriving While Gardening

Founder ANN BOWER HERREN Publisher BRANDON FOREMAN Associate Publisher AMY L. FOREMAN Business Operations LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations

SARAH MILLER

Administrative Coordinator

Editorial LAURA CLAVERIE Executive Editor

AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor

EMILY DREZ

FROM LAURA

Assistant Editor

Every now and then when I’m talking about Louisiana Boomers with friends, someone will invariably ask, “What exactly is a Boomer?” So here is what I tell them:

Editorial Assistants

A Boomer is someone who was born between 1946-1964. They follow the Greatest Generation and precede Generation X.

SARAH BATROUS ANTHONY BUI Art/Production JENNY ZIGLIN Production Manager

MELODY TAUZIN Senior Graphic Designer

ALEX HERRING Graphic Designer

KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY Cover Photographer

Advertising PATRICK PACHECO

Director of Business Development

JENNIFER HOFFMANN KRISTEN RENFROW Account Executives

Marketing EMILY MANCUSO Director of Marketing

MAGGIE SHARP Marketing Assistant

VICTORIA COTEJAR Social Media Coordinator

Community Development TERI HODGES

Director of Community Partnerships

ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach

For reprint information, contact

jenny@nolafamily.com Business Office:

One Galleria Blvd., Ste. 1900 Metairie, LA 70001

(504) 866-0555 A publication of

March/April 2022 Issue 17

Boomers are the wealthiest generation in America, set to pass on $68 trillion (yes, trillion) to their children, the largest generational wealth transfer ever, according to the Wall Street Journal. And real estate? Boomers, according to The New York Times, own the largest share of real estate in the country. One study by the American Medical Association found that Boomers are different from generations that preceded them–they are more savvy, assertive, health conscious and engaged in their healthcare. They value and pursue social engagement, healthy lifestyles, and have high expectations for wellness and independence in late life. And this is just for starters. In this issue of Louisiana Boomers, we’ll touch on these topics and more. For example, have you and your spouse considered the worth of your home and using it as income for your retirement or healthcare expenses? Could a reverse mortgage be in your future? Learn the pros and cons of this process and if it works for you. After all, your home is the biggest investment you have. Is it time for it to work for you? We welcome well-known horticulturist, Dan Gill, to the cover of Louisiana Boomers and our first “Home and Garden” issue. Gill, who recently retired from his position at the LSU AgCenter, is a current garden writer for the Times Picayune/Advocate who inspires us to be good stewards of the land. Through his books, writing, and television appearances, we have become more aware of the beauty of our environment and climate. He’s especially pleased that one of the silver linings of the pandemic is that Americans became more interested in gardening–yes, the healing powers of fresh air and working in the soil! It’s springtime, and time to follow Gill’s advice and weed your garden, plant some colorful flowers and vegetables, and get back to nature. Visit your local library for seeds and books about gardening. Read our librarians’ recommendations in this issue. In the last few months, our state has endured hurricanes, tornados, and a long, chilly winter. It’s time to celebrate spring by visiting a public garden (the Botanical Garden at New Orleans City Park is definitely worth a visit) or work in your own backyard. Enjoy all that nature has to offer. It’s time.

Fearlessly yours,

Laura Claverie LABOOMERSMAG.COM | MARCH/APRIL 2022

CONTENTS

MARCH/APRIL 2022

ON THE COVER Daniel Gill shares his passion for teaching all about gardening. Photo by Kleinpeter Photography

A FEW WORDS

3 From Laura FEATURES

9 Aging in Place 10 Daniel Gill: Thriving

REGULAR TOPICS

6 From Our Bookshelf 8 Finance 14 Feeling Puzzled? 16 On the Geaux

While Gardening

12 Getting Back into the Dating Game

13 Hairdos and Don’ts

LOUISIANA BOOMERS is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. LOUISIANA BOOMERS Copyright © 2022. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission prohibited.

MARCH/APRIL 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM

LABOOMERSMAG.COM | MARCH/APRIL 2022

FROM OUR BOOKSHELF

Guide Your Garden’s Growth Use the New Orleans Public Library to help you reach your full gardening potential with their extensive resource collection, including their two seed libraries, one located in Mid-City and the other in Algiers Point.

Cita Dennis Hubbell Seed Library, 725 Pelican Avenue

The Cita Dennis Hubbell Seed Library is open to all–no Library card required. The seeds are donated from Hudson Valley Seed Co., West Coast Seeds, Botanical Interests, and Seed Savers Exchange.

Rules

- Any person can take seeds. A library card is not required. - There is no limit on how many packets you can take, or how often, but staff request that you take no more than needed. - Seeds don’t need to be returned, but you are welcome to donate your own seeds to help the collection grow. - Seeds can be reserved by calling Hubbell Library at (504) 596-3113. - Availability may vary. Please call or visit Cita Dennis Hubbell Library for current information on seed offerings. - Hubbell Seed Library is a browsing collection, which means there is no inventory. Library staff are happy to tell you in general what they have available, but not specifics. In other words, you can call to see if they have lettuce, but not which types of lettuce are in stock.

- Seeds don’t need to be returned, but you are welcome to donate your own seeds to help the collection grow and get access to more than the normal six-month seed allotment. - Availability may vary. Call or visit Mid-City Library for up-to-date information on seed offerings.

Recommended Reads

Whether you’re a flower fiend or seeking ways to increase your vegetable garden bounty, the Library has dozens of books to help guide your garden’s growth and spark inspiration for your next project. Get started with these great suggestions: - The Louisiana Urban Gardener: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Vegetables and Herbs by Kathryn K. Fontenot - Gardening Your Front Yard: Projects & Ideas for Big & Small Spaces by Tara Nolan - Growing Flowers: Everything You Need to Know about Planting, Tending, Harvesting and Arranging Beautiful Blooms by Niki Irving - The Earth in Her Hands: 75 Extraordinary Women Working in the World of Plants by Jennifer Jewell

Mid-City Seed Library, 4140 Canal Street

The Mid-City Seed Library features more than 400 varieties of vegetables, flowers, and herbs, all of which can be grown in Louisiana and many that are native to our region. This library specializes in heirloom seeds, which are adapted to specific growing regions for greater success in growing your garden. The Mid-City Seed Library is sponsored by the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library.

Rules

- Library cardholders can check out up to five seed packets every six months. All packets must be of different varieties. - Each packet has descriptions of each seed variety and planting instructions. The Seed Library also features a catalog where you can browse photos of every plant in the collection. Marie Simoneaux is the marketing associate responsible for the Library’s social media content and impact stories.

MARCH/APRIL 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM

LABOOMERSMAG.COM | MARCH/APRIL 2022

FINANCE

The Scoop on Reverse Mortgages By Sarah Batrous Reverse mortgages are a bit of an elusive topic, and there is always fear of the unknown, especially where financials are involved. So, how can a reverse mortgage help or hinder you?

lump sum, which gives you the maximum amount that is available, while the second way is through a line of credit that works like a savings account, giving you the freedom to draw from it whenever you would like.

The Need-To-Know

The third option is to receive the proceeds as a guaranteed monthly supplement. The payment schedule lasts for as long as you live in your home, but you can also receive payments for a certain amount of time. If set up for a term, when the term ends this loan is still not considered due, meaning you still do not have to make a payment to the lender or move out of the home.

Tracey Textor, a reverse mortgage lender for Home Bank, went over the basics. “With the aging of our population, it is easy to see why a reverse mortgage can be utilized to supplement retirement income. It is a popular home loan that was created specifically for senior homeowners, 62 years and older, who want to convert part of their home’s equity into income,” explains Textor. Beyond the requirement of you being at least 62 years old, your home must be paid for or have a low mortgage balance, and you must live in your home as your primary residence. The home in question can be a singlefamily home, a multi-unit property, a condo, or a townhome. To keep the loan from defaulting, you must pay property taxes or insurance and properly maintain your property. As with any loan, there are minimum income and credit requirements to ensure you qualify. There are several types of reverse mortgages, but the easiest and most common one is the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) which is supported by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. While this type is more expensive than most loans, the money it provides can be used for almost anything.

The biggest selling point is being able to pay for exciting things you may not have been able to just off your Social Security earnings. You can make home improvements, travel, pay off old debt, pay off an existing mortgage, get cash, or increase your monthly income. While the good is interesting, there are a few pitfalls to be aware of before applying. The most common problem arises when it comes to your heirs having to take responsibility for the reverse mortgage upon your death. Your heirs are given two options: refinance the mortgage and start making a monthly payment on the new loan or put the property up for sale to pay off the reverse loan. This can put a lot of financial or personal stress on your children or grandchildren, so keep this in mind.

How Do I Receive the Money?

There are precautions set in place to make sure you are prepared. Before you take out the mortgage, you will be required to sit through an information session where an advisor will explain what a reverse mortgage can do for you and what you need to do to get started.

According to Textor, there are three options to choose from. The first is a

Overall, the point of a reverse mortgage is to support you financially using your home as equity. Like anything dealing with money, there is a need to be careful and consider all your options. Talk with your family and financial advisor to be sure that this will benefit both you and your loved ones.

Since the mortgage is insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), a maximum loan limit is set with the amount allotted being $625,500. Funds are dispersed in a variety of ways depending on your needs.

Some Pros and Cons

MARCH/APRIL 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM

Aging in Place By Anthony Bui Conversations about end-of-life care, though difficult, are conversations that must be had in order to properly ensure that as we age, we are able to live out the rest of our days as comfortably as possible. There are several options to choose from with each having their own set of benefits and disadvantages.

in a huge house with no nearby family, you should strongly consider other options. But, if you live nearby to your family and have a home that can be easily modified to be made safe, you can begin to consider aging in place and proceed with the rest of the planning.

One option that has recently received a lot of attention is aging in place. This option allows us to grow older in our current residence as opposed to moving to a facility for assisted living or long-term care. This is done through home modifications to make sure that the home is accessible and safe, and also by establishing a support network in order to ensure that we are being taken care of and have someone checking in on us.

It is important that someone who is looking into aging in place has a good plan in place financially. An advantage of choosing to age in place is that it is less expensive compared to nursing homes and other facilities, if the home is already paid off. Even then, it is important that one evaluates their finances in order to create a short- and long-term budget to factor in cost of bills, medicine, any home modification projects, food, and any other needs that one may have in their day-to-day lives. It is easy to feel lost in all of this, but meeting up with a financial advisor can help to make this process easier.

The decision to age in place allows you to remain somewhere that is comfortable and familiar. You are also able to still feel like you have some independence. Being moved to institutionalized care can be something that most people do not look forward to. They fear many things such as being forgotten, abused, or losing all of their independence. If you feel this way, aging in place is something that you can look into and research in order to see if it is the best option for you. It is important that this is done as soon as possible, as it requires a lot of planning and resources. The Older Americans Act provides services to help assist and support older adults so they can maintain their independence and remain in their homes.

How to Do It

Is it right for you?

After finances are in order, one can now look into what kind of help and resources that they would potentially need. There are plenty of services and resources available that help with things like household chores, meals, money management, and health care. In figuring all of these things out, it requires honesty on everyone’s part to accept what level of independence you can safely achieve. It is important that you do not push yourself too much but instead surround yourself with a support network of friends and family who are able to regularly check in on you and make sure that you are always safe.

Aging in place sounds ideal, but it is not always easy. Everyone’s situation is different, so one must first evaluate their own before moving forward. If you live on your own

Once the home is made accessible and safe, and a sufficient support network is in place to ensure all needs will be taken care of, there is still the need to develop a backup plan in case something happens and it is no longer possible to remain in your home. Accidents happen and conditions worsen, so it is vital that a plan is in place in case it is no longer safe to age in place. When the circumstances are right though, aging in place is a viable option that allows people to maintain their independence while living out the remainder of their days in a familiar setting with a familiar routine.

There are many factors to consider when determining whether or not aging in place is the right choice. One must consider things like: what kind of help you might want in the future, is there any family that you live with or near that could assist you if needed, is there any specific illnesses that you have that may affect you mentally and physically, or even what kind of home do you live in?

LABOOMERSMAG.COM | MARCH/APRIL 2022

Daniel Gill:

Thriving While Gardening By Anthony Bui 10

MARCH/APRIL 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM

Daniel Gill has always had a long-standing interest in plants. He spent a majority of his childhood out in the woods digging up wildflowers and bringing them home to tend to. This love only continued to grow as he entered his teenage years, until ultimately, he decided that he wanted to be a horticulturist. He would go on to have a memorable career and establish himself as a key figure in the world of plants here in Louisiana.

A Love for Teaching

Gill started at Louisiana State University in 1972 and finished his masters in 1980 before going on to become an extension horticulturist at the LSU Agricultural Center. It was through this incredibly rewarding work that Gill began to realize how much he enjoyed teaching. In graduate school, he taught labs, and watching things click in students’ minds was something that he loved to see. Though he admits that he wasn’t really cut out to be a professor, Gill discovered many outreach opportunities through the AgCenter which pushed him more towards his calling: teaching the general public. It turns out that mass media was the perfect way to reach out to the community. From radio station appearances to segments on TV and weekly columns, Gill truly does have a passion for teaching the general public everything they need to know about gardening.

“Passion doesn’t die when you retire. The love of gardening and teaching doesn’t diminish.”

Following His Passion

Gill retired in 2018, but he still enjoys teaching people through the use of media. If anything, retirement has freed up more time for him to utilize these platforms even more, and he doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. “Passion doesn’t die when you retire. The love of gardening and teaching doesn’t diminish,” he shares. This passion can be seen clearly in all the work that he has accomplished over the years with his proudest achievement being chosen to be a spokesperson for the Get It Growing Program, which was a multimedia effort to penetrate all areas of the state and educate people about the world of gardening. If you couple that with his weekly TV and radio programs, you will find that Gill has left quite the mark on the world of gardening which has recently seen a boom since the start of the pandemic.

Gardening is Thriving

To get into gardening, one must have the desire to go outside and move around. Initially, the pandemic stopped a lot of people from going out and doing the things that they would traditionally do outdoors. Because of the lack of outdoor activities and get-togethers, Gill had conversations with people in the green industry to share the true stories of how people turned to gardening. With the increased interest in growing their own gardens, more people than ever were getting their hands dirty, evidenced by a huge increase in sales. People who didn’t think they had the time to do something like gardening now found ample time as they had to work from home or quarantine and isolate.

Growing in Benefits

Gardening is a form of exercise, and like other physical activities like walking

and jogging, it has plenty of mental health benefits, too. Interactions with plants are calming; they can’t talk back to you or yell at you. There’s also the satisfaction of building a garden and the feeling of responsibility that creates a bond between the garden and the person. This bond and the work put in can also provide both mental and physical benefits. However, we all know the benefits of gardening. Many of us felt like it would be a lost art eventually though, one that only our friends still found joy in. Luckily, this is no longer the case. “It seemed that this love for nurturing and growing these gardens would die with us, but it is back and thriving,” shares Gill. There has been a resurgence in the term “plant parent” as millennials are discovering just how beneficial gardening can be. Gardening gives you something to do and something to take care of. It also encourages daily movement which can help to prevent health problems like osteoporosis, heart disease, stroke, and brain health. Gardening has also shown to have positive effects on the brain during a study done regarding Alzheimers and Parkinsons. It keeps the brain active as people are engaging in an activity that gives them something to care for and nurture. It allows them to feel that sense of independence. For a lot of people, as they grow older and lose some of their independence and mobility, their quality of life also suffers. Gardening keeps these paternal and maternal instincts alive while simultaneously engaging both the mind and body which leads to just an overall better quality of life.

Growing Your Own Garden

Gardening during the pandemic gave grandparents who were separated from their children and grandchildren an outlet to fulfill the need to nurture. Gill expresses that a bond between plant and person is special despite the plants inability to show affection or appreciation through words. There is just a benefit that comes from nurturing that only a select few will understand. For those who would like to jump on the trend, know that it is never too late to start gardening. It is a great way to get outside and enjoy some vitamin D, and it’s a satisfying way of growing your own fruits and vegetables to eat. For individuals who struggle with mobility issues and can’t consistently and frequently bend down or kneel, there are still ways that they can start their own garden. One can either invest in a good quality kneeler or a raised garden bed. These things are specifically designed to aid people who struggle with arthritis and other joint problems. To also reduce strain on one’s joints, it is important to utilize the correct tools making sure they are sharp, as a dull blade will cause you to have to exert a lot more force. According to Gill, it is also important to obtain information that is geared towards where you are living. This is critical to your success. If you are living in Louisiana, it is of paramount importance that you find information that is geared towards gardening in Louisiana. Other states and regions have different weather conditions and factors that change the way they garden and what can grow there, so applying those same techniques to a different area could lead to failure and disappointment. Once the necessary precautions are taken and the geographically correct information is obtained, we can begin to come up with a game plan for the garden. In choosing a patch of land, it is important that you find a spot that gets plenty of sunlight each day. Then, you can establish plots for the different plants and make sure that the soil is healthy enough to sustain a garden. Establishing a daily care routine based on the needs of whatever you are trying to plant and tending to them on a daily basis is vital to the success of the garden. When you know what to grow and when, jump in there and get your hands dirty. If you fail, it is okay. You are bound to see a couple of plants die, but this is all part of learning to garden. Practice makes perfect, and there is nothing more rewarding than watching a plant that you tended to and cared for grow and blossom into something beautiful. LABOOMERSMAG.COM | MARCH/APRIL 2022

Getting Back into the Dating Game By Emily Drez After losing a long-term partner, you may start to develop an interest in dating somebody else and wonder if it’s even the right time to start playing the field again. The truth is, there is no blueprint for dating after the death or divorce of your spouse, but there are some measures you can take to facilitate the process. Here are some crucial guidelines to help you get back into the dating game:

Take time to move on. It’s important to stay single for some time before you get into your next relationship. Take all the time you need to heal before you become involved with someone else, whether that be a few months or a few years, because any raw feelings you may have after your previous relationship can do significant damage to your next. If you’re going through a divorce, you should wait until after the divorce is finalized to start dating again. The process of getting a divorce is grueling, emotional, and sometimes traumatizing, and it can be tempting to want to lean on someone else for emotional support. However, it’s best to process these feelings by yourself so you can heal without any inhibitions. Prioritize yourself. Ask yourself, do I want to go on a date, or do I feel like I need to? If you truly want to go on a date with this person, great! If you feel obligated to go on a date because you feel lonely, spiteful, or like you need a distraction from the hurt, it’s probably best you stay home. Here’s the thing: you need to find happiness in yourself before you find happiness in someone else. During your healing process, you should learn to be comfortable with your own company. Doing activities alone such as reading a book in a coffee shop,

MARCH/APRIL 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM

wandering around your favorite store, or taking a drive around town can actually prepare you for a relationship because you will realize you do not need anyone else to make you happy. Go on many dates. Once you’re ready, don’t be afraid to go on casual dates with multiple people. This doesn’t mean having emotionally charged flings, but rather taking time to ensure you know what you want in a partner. It’s also important to socialize a lot not only to improve your emotional health but also to expand your horizons. You might have thought you had a specific type, but by casually dating multiple people, you may click with someone you never thought you would have dated in the past. Give yourself options and make sure you communicate with your date whether you want to be casual or exclusive. Here are some great places where you can meet people with similar interests: - Church groups - The gym - The park - The library - Sports events - Online If your preferred route is online, beware of scammers. Never give away personal information to those who ask for it, and watch out for the people who ask for money, even if it’s just a few dollars. Otherwise, have fun, and don’t forget to be yourself.

Hairdos and Don’ts Graying Gracefully By Sarah Batrous Most people start finding gray hairs in their 50s. Typically, it’s a strand or two before it starts to fan across the roots, shiny and obvious. The go-to response is to permanently dye your hair, but as the roots grow back out, you’ll be back in the salon or buying box dye every three-four weeks. So, you have two options: letting hair gray naturally or dyeing it entirely. Let’s talk about it!

Letting Hair Gray Naturally

The time and effort needed depends on the state of your hair right now. If your hair is colored, this process could take years to complete due to how fast your hair grows and if you want to cut it as it changes. If your hair is uncolored, it can take six months to a year to complete based on how much graying you have right now and the speed of growth. Tonya Raybon, the owner of Raybon Salon, boasts 15 years of experience and says not to get discouraged. “Trusting the process is a term we use with all transitions. You must be patient and open to options. Also, hair ties and hats are a fun option,” she says. Your hairstylist can recommend new hairstyles that will help you feel confident and make the graying look as natural and put-together as possible. Using your personal style, lifestyle, and face shape, a new hairdo can do wonders.

Dyeing Your Hair

Dyeing your hair for that silver look is a process in itself. Depending on the color of your hair now and whether it’s dyed already, your hairstylist can recommend lowlights, highlights, blending, toning, or a mix of all these options. Knowing what you want going in will help your stylist to best achieve the desired look as quickly as possible. The most important part is to understand that this process might not be a one-and-done deal. Coloring your hair depends on where your hair is right now

and where you want to be. Depending on this, it will take several visits across a few days to weeks.

Let’s Talk Upkeep

Stylists recommend deep conditioning treatments and regular trims to keep your hair healthy. A “purple” shampoo that tones and brightens your hair could keep the color looking vibrant and healthy. A focus on treatments for smoothing and glossing gray hair can keep it looking light, shiny, and frizz-less. Purchasing hair products that are meant to support dyed or fragile hair can help keep your locks from drying out.

The Psychology of Change

Like with any major life event, learning to accept change requires a lot of selfexploration and relying on others for a sense of community. Melissa Shaw, LCSW-BACS, a Prairieville-based clinical social worker and therapist, shares her thoughts on the mindset surrounding silvering hair and how best to accept it. “The way to comfortably go through this change is to review how you perceive gray hair, the role that hair color plays in your identity, how vested you are in this change, and how realistic your expectations are for transition phases and time,” explains Shaw. “When ready to proceed, having supportive friends who know how to filter their thoughts and comments or friends making similar changes will contribute to a higher ability of adapting well.” Allowing yourself to gray gracefully is a step forward in the cycle of life. Growing to love yourself and your body as it changes is a lifelong process. “Embracing aging does not mean accepting defeat. If anything, it affords the ability to grow into yourself and be comfortable in your own skin and hair,” assures Shaw. LABOOMERSMAG.COM | MARCH/APRIL 2022

Feeling Puzzled?

CLUES ACROSS

19. Swiss river

41. A place one lives

1. Expression of disgust

20. Norwegian district and river

42. Cognizant of

4. A place to unwind

21. A form of motivation

43. Albanian monetary unit

7. A type of cooking range

25. Car mechanics group

44. Carrot’s partner

8. Grasp tightly

26. Once a must-have home theater accessory

45. Famed garden

10. Sea eagles

27. Broken branch

46. Chilean seaport

12. Carb dish

29. Apple and pumpkin are two

48. Days (Spanish)

13. Late-night host

30. Skeletal muscle

49. Sudden anxiety

14. Revolutions per minute

31. Small Eurasian deer

50. 100 square meters

16. Indicates odd or erroneous

32. Tight-lipped fellow

51. A type of beer

17. FDR’s military chief of staff

39. Comes after a cut

52. French/Belgian river

MARCH/APRIL 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM

CLUES DOWN

15. Pre-release viewing

32. Creating

1. Spanish dish

18. Northwestern Canadian territory (abbr.)

33. Supervises flying

2. Concurs

19. Consumed

34. Northwestern state

3. __and her sisters

20. Falters

35. Was obligated to repay

4. Patti Hearst’s captors

22. Radioactive form of an element

36. Diverging in lines from a common center

5. Used to refer to cited works

23. Catch a wrongdoer

37. Bleak

6. A state of excited movement

24. Breeze through

38. We all have them

8. Advertising term (abbr.)

27. Thick piece of something

39. Hit with the palm of one’s hand

9. Nocturnal S. American rodent

28. Yellowish-brown color

40. Sea that’s part of the western Pacific

11. New York art district

29. “The Raven” poet

44. Political action committee

14. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!

31. Rural free delivery (abbr.)

47. Famed Spanish soldier El __

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell a word related to Home and Garden. LUHCM

ESDPIIETC

ABECTIN

OMSCTPO

NTOIIRRE

HEEDG

SESHRA

NUOIIANSTL

AWE LWM R N O

GTRUET

LABOOMERSMAG.COM | MARCH/APRIL 2022

GUTTER

LAWNMOWER

INSULATION

SHEARS

HEDGE

INTERIOR

COMPOST

CABINET

PESTICIDE

MULCH

ON THE GEAUX

MARCH 1 Tuesday MARDI GRAS HISTORIC THIBODAUX WALKING TOUR

Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center at 10 a.m. Join a ranger at the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Centerfor a stroll through downtown Thibodaux and hear the stories of its past. Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. nps.gov

MAKING MARDI GRAS

520 Royal Street, Tricentennial Wing, 3rd Floor. Tuesday-Sunday. Times Vary. Visitors can explore the vibrant expression that only Carnival season can muster, as they meet up with 19th-century float artists, dawn-breaking skeleton gangs, and homebound house-float creators all while stopping to admire costumes, “royal” finery, and specialty parade throws such as Zulu’s hand-painted coconuts. hnoc.org/exhibitions

2 Wednesday ART AND ZEN ONLINE MEDITATION SERIES Virtual at 12:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, join for a live mindfulness meditation inspired by a work of Southern art. This online meditation program is led by Ogden Museum Educator and yoga and meditation instructor, Mikhayla Harrell. All experience levels are welcome. Registration required. Free. ogdenmuseum.org

BARATARIA PRESERVE WETLANDS WALK

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Reserve Visitor Center at 10 a.m. Join a ranger for a guided walk on a boardwalk trail through the Louisiana swamps and marshes of the Barataria Preserve. Every week Wednesday through Sunday. nps.gov

FRENCH QUARTER JAZZ PERFORMANCE

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve Visitor Center Courtyard at noon. Musical Park Rangers will lead a performance. nps.gov

RANGER SESSIONS

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Reserve’s French Quarter Visitor Center at noon. Musical performances with insights into how “America’s Music” came to be. nps.gov

UNO PRIVATEER MEN AND WOMEN VS HOUSTON BAPTIST UNIVERSITY

Lakefront Arena at 5 p.m. (women) and 7 p.m. (men). arena.uno.edu

MARCH/APRIL 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM

3 Thursday CAMPING 101 FOR FAMILIES

New Orleans City Park at 9 a.m. Learn basic skills and tips for tent camping as a family with LOOP NOLA’s Camping 101 program. The program is for both children and their parents/guardians to have fun working together and learning the basics of camping. You’ll learn how to prepare for the trip, safely set up camp, build a fire, and cook. All ages and experience levels are welcome. neworleanscitypark.com

CHALMETTE BATTLEFIELD- BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS TALK

Chalmette Battlefield at 2:45 p.m. Learn about the Battle of New Orleans at the place where it happened. Thursdays through Mondays. nps.gov

DANCING WITH THE STARS: LIVE!

Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. Your favorite dancers from this iconic television series hit the stage this winter with an all new show. saengernola.com

FRENCH QUARTER JAZZ PIANO HOUR

Online at 2 p.m. The New Orleans Jazz Museum presents a live-streamed performance featuring Jenna McSwain. nps.gov

MERCYME INHALE (EXHALE) TOUR

Smoothie King Center at 7 p.m. GRAMMYnominated, multiple American Music Award, Billboard Music Award and Dove Award-winning band MercyMe. smoothiekingcenter.com

House That Will Not Stand is a humorous and gripping family drama told in a rich and lyrical river of words. lepetittheatre.com

MUSIC AT THE MUSEUM

Sydney & Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at NOMA at 6 p.m. Carlos Miguel Prieto conducts the LPO Brass Section. lpomusic.com

TASTE OF LOUISIANA: HANDS-ON CREOLE CLASS AND LUNCH

Southern Food & Beverage Museum at 11 a.m. Class offers an in-depth look into how to create delicious, traditional dishes that can be found nowhere else in the world, while discussing their cultural and historical origins. Every Monday and Friday. southernfood.org

WETLANDS ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER BOAT TOUR

Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center at 10 a.m. Cruise into Louisiana’s past on a boat tour of Bayou Lafourche with a National Park Service ranger. nps.gov

5 Saturday ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER FRONT PORCH MUSIC SERIES

Acadian Cultural Center at noon. Performances by local musicians. Music includes Zydeco, Cajun, and Swamp Pop. Free Outdoor Kids’ activities for the whole family will be available. nps.gov

GRETNA FARMERS MARKET

SENIOR THURSDAYS

Historic downtown Gretna from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Enjoy fresh local produce and crafts. Rain or shine, under the covered Gretna Market Building. gretnala.com

TASTE OF LOUISIANA: HANDS-ON CAJUN CLASS AND LUNCH

KREWE DU POOCH

Infinity Science Center. Special rates every day for seniors, but they’re even lower on Thursdays. visitinfinity.com Southern Food & Beverage Museum at 11 a.m. This class offers an in-depth look into how to create delicious, traditional dishes that can be found nowhere else in the world, while discussing their cultural and historical origins. Every Thursday. southernfood.org

TULANE MEN’S BASKETBALL

The Devlin Fieldhouse at 7 p.m. vs University of Central Florida.

4 Friday HOUSE THAT WILL NOT STAND

Le Petit Theatre through March 20. Times vary.

Mandeville Lakefront at noon. This year’s theme is “A Fairy Tail by Krewe du Pooch!” The event will also feature a free live concert with Four Unplugged, pet adoptions, vendors, food, drinks, and fun activities for the whole family. krewedupooch.org

LAFAYETTE DULCIMER JAM

Acadian Cultural Center at 10 a.m. Join the Cajun Dulcimer Society and its core group, the Lagniappe Dulcimer Society from Baton Rouge, for dulcimer music: Cajun, country, Celtic, folk, and hymns. Bring an acoustic instrument and join in or just enjoy. nps.gov

RIVERTOWN FARMERS MARKET

LaSalle’s Landing at 8 a.m. Every Saturday. Shop

fresh, local produce; get tips from experts; and see special demos. kenner.la.us

from the Southern region of the United States. ogdenmuseum.org

NORTHSHORE CLASSICS: MOZART’S PRAGUE SYMPHONY

PRIETO CONDUCTS SHOSTAKOVICH

Saint Paul’s School at 7:30 p.m. Carlos Miguel Prieto conducts Fuller - It Moves Us Not and Mozart - Symphony No. 38 in D major, K. 504, “Prague”. lpomusic.com

TAI CHI IN THE SCULPTURE GARDEN

Besthoff Sculpture Garden at 9 a.m. Join East Jefferson Wellness Center instructor Terry Rappold, as he leads participants through relaxing tai chi exercises in the Besthoff Sculpture Garden. Every Saturday. noma.org

“WHAT IF” SPECULATIVE FICTION SHORT STORY CLUB

New Orleans Parish Library at 11:30 a.m. Discuss two stories in the genres of fantasy, science fiction, horror, alternate history, and/or weird fiction. This virtual short story club meets monthly. nolalibrary.org

YOGA IN THE SCULPTURE GARDEN

Besthoff Sculpture Garden at 8 a.m. NOMA, in partnership with the East Jefferson Wellness Center, presents yoga classes every Saturday morning. noma.org

6 Sunday A PAW-SITIVELY PATRIOTIC MARDI GRAS PARADE

Downtown Covington at 2 p.m. Every dog has its day, and today will be the one for a heroic K9 named Layka, who has been tapped to serve as the Celebrity Grand Marshal in this year’s Mardi Paws parade. mardipaws.com

WARTIME PIANO HAPPY HOUR

BB’s Stage Door Canteen at 4 p.m. Tap along to favorites like “Sentimental Journey” and “I’ll Be Seeing You,” and learn how these tunes coincided with significant events of the war. Beverages can be purchased at the bar in the American Sector Restaurant. nationalww2museum.org

7 Monday BEGINNER COOKING CLASS

Culinary Kids at 5:30 p.m. Local Chefs and cooking instructors take older kids through a detailed course of beginner culinary skills. Ages 7-10. Every Monday. culinarykidsns.com

STITCH N’ BOOK, KNITTING, CROCHET, TATTING & CRAFTING CIRCLE

Children’s Resource Center Library at 6 p.m. Bring your own crafty project and enjoy conversation, snacks, and creativity. Tatting & crochet instruction available upon request. All ages are welcome. nolalibrary.org

10 Thursday DOCENT-LED DROP-IN TOUR

Ogden Museum at 12:30 p.m. Join for a Docentled tour of Ogden Museum, home to the largest and most comprehensive collection of art

The Orpheum Theater at 7:30 p.m. Celebrate the 80th birthday of Hailstork with his work celebrating MLK in Epitaph for a Man Who Dreamed, while Shostakovich 5 reflects upon an artist using his medium to strike blows against the oppressor. lpomusic.com

WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES: BROUSSARD’S

Broussard’s at 6:30 p.m. on March 10, March 24, and March 31. This dinner is one of four donated by Broussard’s. The wine pairing dinner will be served in the Prohibition Room, which serves as an intimate, private dining room with an interactive wine and dining experience. wyes.org

11 Friday 14TH ANNUAL BIG EASY BLUES FESTIVAL

Lakefront Arena at 8 p.m. Featuring Tucka, Pokey Bear, Roi Anthony, Ronnie Bell, Lebrado, Nellie Tiger Travis and Captain Charles. arena.uno.edu

NEW ORLEANS HOME & GARDEN SHOW

Caesars Superdome. Celebrating its 65th anniversary, the annual expo showcases hundreds of home and garden vendors participating in product demonstrations, seminars, and workshops. caesarssuperdome.com

SHREK THE MUSICAL

Jefferson Performing Arts Center through March 20. Times vary. The beloved ogre fairy tale comes to life in this colorful, Tony Award-winning production based on the hit movie. jpas.org

THE DROWSY CHAPERONE

Rivertown Theatres For The Performing Arts through March 27. Times vary. A song and dance for the whole family that will make you fall in love with musicals all over again. rivertowntheaters.com

12 Saturday AMERICA’S LARGEST INTERACTIVE MYSTERY DINNER SHOW

DoubleTree at 6 p.m. The action happens all around you, and any person in the audience can end up being a part of the show, even YOU! Throughout the night, you’ll find yourself wondering if what just happened was scripted or real. visitjeffersonparish.com

BALLET HISPÁNICO

Mahalia Jackson Theater at 8 p.m. The Rise and Fall of a Diva, a brand new, full-length ballet celebrating one of the most captivating women of South American history. saengernola.com

CHICAGO LIVE IN CONCERT

Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. Chicago continues to be true ambassadors for their beloved hometown, carrying the city’s name with pride and dignity around the world. saengernola.com

HISTORIC OPEN-HEARTH COOKING

Hermann-Grima House at 10 a.m. Authentic open-

hearth cooking demonstrations. hgghh.org

13 Sunday FAMILY CONCERT: WHEN INSTRUMENTS ROAMED THE EARTH! Roussel Hall, Louis J. Roussel Performance Hall at 2:30 p.m. Tickets can be reserved online. lpomusic.com

15 Tuesday LOUISIANA REHABILITATIVE SERVICES WEBINAR

Online at 1 p.m. Learn about Louisiana Rehab Services. fhfnorthshore.org

WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES: PALM&PINE

Palm&Pine at 6:30 p.m. WYES is pleased to have Palm&Pine as part of the 29th annual WYES Season of Good Tastes wine dinner series. wyes.org

16 Wednesday TWILIGHT AT LONGUE VUE: CAST IRON CACTUS

Longue Vue at 5 p.m. The Spanish Court music series is back. Join for the season opener featuring Cast Iron Cactus, a Roots Americana band from New Orleans. Bring drinks, snacks, picnic seating, or just your walking shoes and face covering to enjoy the cool hours of the day in the Longue Vue Gardens. longuevue.com

17 Thursday ST. PATRICK’S DAY BRUNO WALTER NATIONAL CONDUCTOR PREVIEW

The Orpheum Theater at 7:30 p.m. The League’s Bruno Walter National Conductor Preview is one of the field’s most prestigious events for conductors to showcase their talent nationally. This free concert will feature each conductor in a program of outstanding orchestral works and movements. lpomusic.com

PIANO HOUR: KEIKO KOMAKI

New Orleans Jazz Museum at 2 p.m. Keiko Komaki performs. nps.gov

WHO DUN IT? MYSTERY BOOK CLUB

Online at 4 p.m. Solve crimes together and discover “Who Dun It” on Zoom. Each month, a new selection will be unveiled. New members are always welcome. nolalibrary.org

18 Friday LARK IN THE PARK

New Orleans Botanical Garden at 7 p.m. Guests will enjoy a glamorous springtime gala experience, featuring fabulous entertainment and delectable food and drink curated by local restaurants to celebrate and support New Orleans City Park. neworleanscitypark.com

19 Saturday ADULT DINNER NIGHT LABOOMERSMAG.COM | MARCH/APRIL 2022

Culinary Kids at 6 p.m. Enjoy dinner and walk through a detailed course of culinary skills and techniques that are sure to empower you in the kitchen. culinarykidsns.com

AMERICA’S LARGEST INTERACTIVE MYSTERY DINNER SHOW

CAMPHOR ERADICATION PROJECT

New Orleans City Park at 9 a.m. Master Naturalists and associated volunteers participate in the City Park Camphor Eradication Project. neworleanscitypark.com

CITY PARK CHALLENGE COURSE

New Orleans City Park at 10 a.m. The City Park Challenge Course features nine physical and mental challenges at 25 feet in the air and above. The General Public Day is designed for individuals and families who want to push their limits for a fun, active day in City Park. This event is open to the public however, tickets must be purchased beforehand to reserve the limited spots. newolreanscitypark.com

NOLA GOLD VS RUGBY UNITED NEW YORK

The Gold Mine at The Shrine at 7 p.m. Get ready for the nonstop action-packed excitement, big hits, and open play speed of Major League Rugby. nolagoldrugby.com

20 Sunday SUITE SUNDAY SALON

Chalstrom House, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, at 2:30 p.m. Join for the third Suite Sunday music salons. lpomusic.com

THE PRICE IS RIGHT: LIVE!

Saenger Theatre at 7 p.m. The Price Is Right Live is the hit interactive stage show that gives eligible individuals the chance to hear their names called and “Come On Down” to win. Prizes may include appliances, vacations, and possibly a new car. saengernola.com

WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES: THE PELICAN CLUB

The Pelican Club at 6:30 p.m. WYES is pleased to have The Pelican Club Restaurant & Bar as part of the 29th annual WYES Season of Good Tastes wine dinner series. wyes.org

23 Wednesday BEAST FEST

Archbishop Rummel High School at 5 p.m. From nutria tacos and wild boar to grilled redfish, the Beast Feast satisfies everyone’s sense of adventure in dining. partyfixx.com

24 Thursday ART IN BLOOM 18

MARCH/APRIL 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM

New Orleans Museum of Art through March 27. Times vary. Art in Bloom showcases spectacular floral designs created by garden clubs, floral designers, and creative talents from New Orleans and beyond. noma.org

EXHIBIT OPENING: SPRING SWINGS

MEMORY WARS: WORLD WAR II AT 75 AND BEYOND

Longue Vue at 9:30 a.m. An interactive outdoor exhibit at Longue Vue. Created by local artists, Louisiana artisans, and students in our Junior Curators program, Spring Swings will feature colorful mobile seating throughout the site. longuevue.com

OPERATION HOME FRONT

Longue Vue at 1 p.m. Turn your garden into a home for butterflies. Learn about how to attract, support, and retain butterfly and moth populations. Participants will go home with three native plants, a plant care guide, and a local butterfly species and corresponding food plant reference list. longuevue.com

Online through March 26. A first-of-its-kind international conference to discuss the shifting landscapes of popular memories of this worldaltering conflict, Memory Wars will explore World War II’s place in public memory through a global prism, examining how museums, filmmakers, media, memorials, and historians help shape memories of the conflict. nationalww2museum.org

GARDEN THERAPY SERIES: BUTTERFLY GARDENING BASICS

The National WWII Museum through March 27. Travel to The National WWII Museum to explore, remember, and reflect on World War II through exclusive access to the Museum’s campus. nationalww2museum.org

HISTORIC OPEN-HEARTH COOKING

STRAVINSKY’S THE FIREBIRD

Pontchartrain Centerat 10 a.m. The Pontchartrain Home Show showcases all of the latest in kitchens, bathrooms, siding, and solar products. Louisiana Food Fest will also have free samples, tastings, and recipes from over 20 brands that will be sure to satisfy everyone’s hunger and tastes. jaaspro.com

The Orpheum Theater at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a musical tapestry that will reflect the heroes, dreamers and trailblazers of NOLA music with Jay Weigel’s Water’s Gravity, a celebration of the musicians and culture bearers of New Orleans, along with Stravinsky’s The Firebird. lpomusic.com

25 Friday FABULOUSLY FUNNY COMEDY FESTIVAL

Lakefront Arena at 8 p.m. The Fabulously Funny Comedy Festival featuring Mike Epps, Sommore, Gary Owen, Lavell Crawford and Tony Rock is here. arena.uno.edu

LITTLE FEAT

Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. Little Feat is the classic example of a fusion of many styles and musical genres made into something utterly distinctive. Their brilliant musicianship transcends boundaries, uniting California rock, funk, folk, jazz, country, rockabilly, and New Orleans swamp boogie into a rich gumbo that has been leading people in joyful dance ever since. saengernola.com

THE COMEDY ZONE

Westwego Performing Arts Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy an evening of stand-up comedy from the nation’s largest comedy network. jpas.org

26 Saturday AMERICA’S LARGEST INTERACTIVE MYSTERY DINNER SHOW

DoubleTree at 6 p.m. The action happens all around you, and any person in the audience can end up being a part of the show, even you! Throughout the night, you’ll find yourself wondering if what just happened was scripted or real. visitjeffersonparish.com

BIG BASS RODEO

New Orleans City Park at 6:30 a.m. Enjoy exhibits, activities, raffles, and fishing tackle Mardi Gras toss. neworleanscitypark.com

Hermann-Grima House at 10 a.m. Authentic openhearth cooking demonstrations. hgghh.org

PONTCHARTRAIN HOME SHOW AND LOUISIANA FOOD FEST

SENSORY FRIENDLY MORNING

The National WWII Museum at 8 a.m. Sensory Friendly Mornings are for individuals of all ages with special needs and their families to enjoy early access to the Museum with modifications to make the experience more sensory friendly. nationalww2museum.org

27 Sunday GATESFEST ARTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL

Congregation Gates of Prayer at 10:30 a.m. Showcases renowned artists across four stages. gatesofprayer.org/event/gatesfest.html

29 Tuesday AT HOME BEEKEEPING SERIES

Virtual at 6:30 p.m. Learn methods for controlling Varroa that work with Jennifer Berry (UGA). facebook.com/lsuagcenter

IRIS DAY AT LONGUE VUE

Longue Vue at 9:30 a.m. All-day complimentary garden admission for the first 250 guests is generously sponsored by the Greater New Orleans Iris Society. Join them and celebrate their captivating iris collection. Iris experts will be onsite and refreshments served from 4 p.m to 7 p.m. longuevue.com

31 Thursday VIRTUAL BOOK CLUB DISCUSSION: WHEN WOMEN RULED THE WORLD

Online at noon. The NOMA Book Club meets monthly to discuss fiction and nonfiction books related to art in NOMA’s collection and exhibitions. noma.org

APRIL 1 Friday BARATARIA PRESERVE WETLANDS WALK

DARIUS RUCKER

Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. Darius Rucker Live takes off in early 2022, visiting iconic venues across the country for intimate theater performances. saengernola.com

HOGS FOR THE CAUSE FESTIVAL

The University Of New Orleans at 3:30 p.m. through April 2. Two-day music festival and barbecue competition. Combining over 20 bands and over 90 competing barbecue teams, allowing the organization to help thousands of families through direct grants and funding programming at children’s hospitals across the United States. arena.uno.edu

REESE’S FINAL FOUR FRIDAY

Caesars Superdome at 11 a.m. Reese’s Final Four Friday is loads of fun for the entire family and admission is free. caesarssuperdome.com

SWEETARTS 2022

Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans at 6 p.m. CAC SweetArts Gala returns with Through the Astral Plane, a multi-sensory journey that bends time and imagines the future through fashion, music, and artistic experimentation while honoring artistic leaders in our community. cacno.org

TASTE OF LOUISIANA: HANDS-ON CREOLE CLASS AND LUNCH

WETLANDS ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER BOAT TOUR

Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center at 10 a.m. Cruise into Louisiana’s past on a boat tour of Bayou Lafourche with a National Park Service ranger. nps.gov

2 Saturday

ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER FRONT PORCH MUSIC SERIES

Acadian Cultural Center at noon. Performances by local musicians. Music includes Zydeco, Cajun, and Swamp Pop. Free Outdoor Kids’ activities for the whole family will be available. nps.gov

FRENCH QUARTER ARCHITECTURE & HISTORY TOUR WITH LICENSED GUIDE

New Orleans Spring Fiesta at 9 a.m. Take a guided walking tour through the historic Vieux Carre’ led by a licensed tour guide. This relaxed tour will offer information and insights that only a “local” will know. This tour begins inside the Spring Fiesta House and continues on the streets of the French Quarter. springfiestanola.com

GRETNA FARMERS MARKET

Historic downtown Gretna from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Enjoy fresh local produce and crafts. Rain or shine, under the covered Gretna Market Building. gretnala.com

LAFAYETTE DULCIMER JAM

MID-CITY JEWELRY & ART MARKET

Studio 414 at 6 p.m. every Friday. Visitors get to experience their exclusive free Augmented Reality Interactive Art Trail; where art comes to life. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience where art and technology fuse together to form an amazing New Orleans original art cocktail. facebook.com/studio414nola

NCAA MEN’S FINAL FOUR

Caesars Superdome at 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. New Orleans and Louisiana will proudly host the NCAA Men’s Final Four, one of the country’s largest sporting events, for the sixth time. caesarssuperdome.com

NEW ORLEANS SPRING GARDEN SHOW

New Orleans Botanical Garden through April 3. facebook.com/lsuagcenter

OLD METAIRIE FEST

St. Francis Xavier Catholic School at 11 a.m. Family fun, food, and music. facebook.com/sfxjags

WETLANDS ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER: MUSIC ON THE BAYOU

Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center every Saturday at 2 p.m. Discover the wide range of south Louisiana’s music: zydeco, gospel, blues, jazz, and Cajun. Free Outdoor Kids’ activities for the whole family will be offered. nps.gov

WHAT IF SPECULATIVE FICTION SHORT STORY CLUB

3 Sunday

ANTOINE’S LUNCHEON AND COURTYARD & HOME TOUR New Orleans Spring Fiesta at 11 a.m. The history of the Vieux Carre’ comes alive when you walk through the homes and courtyards of the French Quarter. View the interiors of these magnificent private homes that are rarely open to the public and enjoy a delicious luncheon at world-famous Antoine’s Restaurant. springfiestanola.com

HBCU ALL-STAR BASKETBALL GAME

UNO Lakefront Arena at 3 p.m. Representing the legendary coaches Team John McClendon and Team Clarence “Big House” Gaines along with Tennessee State, Hampton, and North Carolina A&T State Universities. arena.uno.edu

4 Monday NCAA MEN’S FINAL FOUR

Caesars Superdome at 8:20 p.m. New Orleans and Louisiana will proudly host the NCAA Men’s Final Four, one of the country’s largest sporting events, for the sixth time. caesarssuperdome.com

5 Tuesday ANASTASIA

Saenger Theatre through April 10. From the Tony Award-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime, this dazzling show transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. saengernola.com

HISTORIC THIBODAUX WALKING TOUR

Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center at 10 a.m. Join a ranger at the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Centerfor a stroll through downtown Thibodaux and hear the LABOOMERSMAG.COM | MARCH/APRIL 2022

stories of its past. Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. nps.gov

6 Wednesday

TWILIGHT AT LONGUE VUE: DA LOVEBIRDS Longue Vue at 5 p.m. Bring drinks, snacks, picnic seating, or just your walking shoes and face covering to enjoy the cool hours of the day in the Longue Vue Gardens. Twilight at Longue Vue is a series of casual, open-air showcases for local musicians and performers across all genres. longuevue.com

7 Thursday

DESIGN SYMPOSIUM 2022

Longue Vue through April 9. Naturalist Edwina von Gal and design icon Cathy Kincaid headline the event. longuevue.com

FROM THE NEW WORLD

The Orpheum Theater at 7:30 p.m. This Orpheum Session, conducted by Roger Kalia, features music by Montgomery, Milhaud, and Dvořák. lpomusic.com

SENIOR THURSDAYS

Infinity Science Center. Special rates every day for seniors, but they’re even lower on Thursdays. Every Thursday. visitinfinity.com

TASTE OF LOUISIANA: HANDS-ON CAJUN CLASS AND LUNCH

Southern Food & Beverage Museum at 11 a.m. This class offers an in-depth look into how to create delicious, traditional dishes that can be found nowhere else in the world, while discussing their cultural and historical origins. Every Thursday. southernfood.org

WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES: BROUSSARD’S

Broussard’s at 6:30 p.m. This dinner is one of four donated by Broussard’s. The wine pairing dinner will be served in the Prohibition Room, which serves as an intimate, private dining room with an interactive wine and dining experience. wyes.org

8 Friday CINDERELLA

Jefferson Performing Arts Center through April 10. The new Broadway adaptation of the classic musical. This contemporary take on the classic tale features Rodgers & Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible,” and “Ten Minutes Ago,” alongside an updated, humorous, and romantic libretto by Douglas Carter Beane. jpas.org

JEFF DUNHAM

Smoothie King Center at 7 p.m. Jeff Dunham is coming and bringing his delightfully irreverent cohorts. smoothiekingcenter.com

9 Saturday AMERICA’S LARGEST INTERACTIVE MYSTERY DINNER SHOW

DoubleTree at 6 p.m. The action happens all around

MARCH/APRIL 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM

you, and any person in the audience can end up being a part of the show, even you! Throughout the night, you’ll find yourself wondering if what just happened was scripted or real. visitjeffersonparish.com

ART IN CITY PARK

City Park at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Spend the day creating a unique work of art, going on a scavenger hunt through the sculpture garden, and exploring the City Park Art Market. gsle.org

HISTORIC OPEN-HEARTH COOKING

Hermann-Grima House at 10 a.m. Watch and learn as docents use authentic recipes, tools, and methods of cooking on the open flame in the hearth, potager, and beehive oven. hgghh.org

NOMA EGG HUNT AND FAMILY FESTIVAL

Besthoff Sculpture Garden at 10 a.m. The NOMA Egg Hunt and Family Festival is a fun and festive event for families featuring arts & crafts, games, face painting, a petting zoo, food, drinks, sweets, and music. noma.org

NOLA GOLD VS RUGBY UNITED NEW YORK

The Gold Mine at The Shrine at 7 p.m. Get ready for the nonstop action-packed excitement, big hits, and open play speed of Major League Rugby. nolagoldrugby.com

TAI CHI IN THE SCULPTURE GARDEN

YOGA IN THE SCULPTURE GARDEN

Sculpture Garden at 8 a.m. NOMA, in partnership with the East Jefferson Wellness Center, presents yoga classes every Saturday morning. noma.org

10 Sunday THE MEDITERRANEAN CAMPAIGN

National WWII Museum from April 10-21. Join The National WWII Museum for a cruise of the picturesque Mediterranean region to learn more about its importance in World War II. nationalww2museum.org

11 Monday CANCER SURVIVOR SUPPORT GROUP

Touro at noon. If you are nearing the end of your cancer treatment, recently completed treatment, or finished treatment some time ago, please consider attending the cancer survivor support group at Touro. It’s an opportunity for you to receive the information, encouragement, and support you need to learn to live beyond cancer. touro.com

ON AGING

Hyatt Regency New Orleans through April 14. You are invited to the largest multidisciplinary conference on aging in the U.S. asaging.org/on-aging

13 Wednesday

MUSIC AT THE MUSEUM: BLOCK PARTY

Marigny Opera House at 6 p.m. The Music at the Museum series is a pay-what-you-can model and tickets can be purchased online. lpomusic.com

WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES: MOSQUITO SUPPER CLUB

Mosquito Supper Club at 6:30 p.m. Mosquito Supper Club serves local fresh seafood only. wyes.org

14 Thursday ART AND ZEN ONLINE MEDITATION SERIES

Ogden Museum at 12:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, join for a live seated mindfulness meditation inspired by a work of Southern art. This online meditation program is led by Ogden Museum Educator and yoga and meditation instructor, Mikhayla Harrell. All experience levels are welcome. Registration required. Free. ogdenmuseum.org

DOCENT-LED DROP-IN TOUR

Ogden Museum at 12:30 p.m. Join for a Docentled tour of Ogden Museum, home to the largest and most comprehensive collection of art from the Southern region of the United States. ogdenmuseum.org

15 Friday

GOOD FRIDAY WARTIME PIANO HAPPY HOUR

BB’s Stage Door Canteen at 4 p.m. Tap along to favorites like “Sentimental Journey” and “I’ll Be Seeing You” and learn how these tunes coincided with significant events of the war. Beverages can be purchased at the bar in the American Sector Restaurant. nationalww2museum.org

16 Saturday AMERICA’S LARGEST INTERACTIVE MYSTERY DINNER SHOW

RUN, WALK, GIVE

Crescent City Classic. Each year, the Crescent City Fitness Foundation selects local charities to support and partner with for the 10k race. The goal of the “Run For It” Program is to raise $1 million annually and serve the Greater New Orleans area needs. jlno.org

17 Sunday EASTER 19 Tuesday DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP

Touro’s Diabetes Center at 10 a.m. Monthly diabetes support group meeting. Meetings are held every third Tuesday of each month. touro.com

20 Wednesday DANCE FOR SOCIAL CHANGE FESTIVAL 2022 Black Box Theater through April 23. Dancing Grounds’ 2022 program is a follow up to last year’s festival and film, Ya Heard Meh? Youth Stories in a Global Pandemic, which urges audiences to listen to young people about how the global pandemic continues to affect their mental health and wellness, and was an official selection of the 2021 New Orleans Film Festival. dancingrounds.org

GRANDPARENTING 101

Online at 6 p.m. Learn how to best support your children as new parents and feel refreshed in newborn care skills that you will quickly put to use as doting grandparents. Free class, pre-registration required. touro.com

TWILIGHT AT LONGUE VUE: ELECTRIC YAT STRING QUARTET

Longue Vue at 5 p.m. Bring drinks, snacks, picnic seating, or just your walking shoes and face covering to enjoy the cool hours of the day in the Longue Vue Gardens. longuevue.com

21 Thursday FRENCH QUARTER FESTIVAL 2022

French Quarter Festival through April 24 at 11 a.m. Kids 12 and under are free with a paid adult. frenchquarterfest.org

HEROES, DREAMERS AND TRAILBLAZERS: JAMES BALDWIN

The Orpheum Theater at 7:30 p.m. The LPO performs works by Joel Thompson inspired by James Baldwin’s Notes of a Native Son, a collection of essays tackling issues of race in America and Europe. lpomusic com

ITALY: 1944

National WWII Museum from April 21-27. Join The National WWII Museum Educational Travel Program on this Italian journey of “Mud, Mountains, and Mules,” with all of its sacrifices, heartbreak, and triumphs. With exquisite hotels in Rome and Florence and expert battlefield guides throughout, you will experience the best that Italy has to offer. nationalww2museum.org

RAIN: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES

Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles brings the best of Abbey Road. saengernola.com

“Impossible/It’s Possible,” and “Ten Minutes Ago,” alongside an updated, humorous, and romantic libretto by Douglas Carter Beane. jpas.org

23 Saturday 17TH ANNUAL CRAWFISH COOK-OFF

Fritchie Park at 11 a.m. Crawfish are boiled up by over 50 teams competing for the title of “Best Crawfish in St Tammany Parish.” Celebrity judges as well as the teams themselves decide the winners. Three local bands will be entertaining. eventbrite.com

ADULT DINNER NIGHT

Culinary Kids at 6 p.m. Enjoy dinner with us and walk through a detailed course of culinary skills and techniques that are sure to empower you in the kitchen. culinarykidsns.com

AMERICA’S LARGEST INTERACTIVE MYSTERY DINNER SHOW

GABRIEL IGLESIAS

Smoothie King Center at 8 p.m. Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias is back on tour. smoothiekingcenter.com

GARDEN THERAPY SERIES: NATURAL GARDENING WORKSHOP/ EARTH DAY

Longue Vue at 1 p.m. This lecture and garden tour led by Director of Gardens Amy Graham will cover the basics of toxic-free lawn care, as well as ornamental and vegetable gardening. longuevue.com

HISTORIC OPEN-HEARTH COOKING

Hermann-Grima House at 10 a.m. Watch and learn as docents use authentic recipes, tools, and methods of cooking on the open flame in the hearth, potager, and beehive oven. hgghh.org

NORTHSHORE CLASSICS: SHOSTAKOVICH 9 Saint Paul’s School at 7:30 p.m. Nicholas Hersh conducts. lpomusic.com

SPRING PLANT SALE: HAMMOND RESEARCH STATION

LSU AgCenter Hammond Research Station at 9 a.m. Spring plant sale with educational sessions and activities. facebook.com/lsuagcenter

24 Sunday

WHO DUN IT? MYSTERY BOOK CLUB

Online at 4 p.m. Solve crimes together and discover “Who Dun It” on Zoom. Each month, a new selection will be unveiled. New members are always welcome. nolalibrary.org

22 Friday CINDERELLA

Jefferson Performing Arts Center through April 24. The new Broadway adaptation of the classic musical. This contemporary take on the classic tale features Rodgers & Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,”

BETH HART

Orpheum Theater at 6:30 p.m. Beth Hart performs live at the The Thankful Tour. orpheumnola.com

DISNEY ON ICE: LET’S CELEBRATE

UNO Lakefront Arena at 10:30 a.m. Tickets start at $79. arena.uno.edu

26 Tuesday AT HOME BEEKEEPING SERIES

Virtual at 6:30 p.m. Learn how to make great queens and avoid poor ones with David Tarpy

(NCSU). facebook.com/lsuagcenter

SWING IN THE OAKS: CITY PARK

The Peristyle at New Orleans City Park at 7 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. Bring your own chairs or lawn blankets. lpomusic.com

27 Wednesday PRIMUS: A TRIBUTE TO KINGS

Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. This performance will pay tribute to Rush. saengernola.com

28 Thursday AUTHOR DEBORAH HOPKINSON

Online at noon. Deborah joins us to share a few of the remarkable stories she discovered in her research. Stories that remind us that even our smallest acts of kindness matter. nationalww2museum.org

MUSIC AT THE MUSEUM: PORTRAIT OF A QUEEN

Ashé Cultural Arts Center Power House Theater at 6 p.m. This exciting program features music by Simon, Leon, Revueltas, and more conducted by Carlos Miguel Prieto and featuring Joel Dyson, voice & Courtney Bryan, piano. lpomusic.com

VIRTUAL BOOK CLUB DISCUSSION

Online at noon. The NOMA Book Club meets monthly to discuss fiction and nonfiction books related to art in NOMA’s collection and exhibitions. noma.org

29 Friday NEW ORLEANS JAZZ AND HERITAGE FESTIVAL

Fair Grounds Race Course. Featuring a celebration of local music, culture, and craft vendors, Jazz Fest is one of the most popular festivals that you do not want to miss. The festival fun begins April 29 and continues through May 8. nojazzfest.com

30 Saturday 14TH ANNUAL ST. MATTHEW MEN’S CLUB CRAWFISH COOK-OFF

St. Matthew The Apostle School at 3 p.m. $30 at the gate for adults, $10 for children ages 6-12, and free for children five and under. facebook.com/stmatthewmensclub

SENSORY FRIENDLY MORNING

TROMBONE SHORTY AND ORLEANS AVENUE Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue’s Treme Threauxdown 6. saengernola.com

LABOOMERSMAG.COM | MARCH/APRIL 2022

MARCH/APRIL 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM

LA Boomers March and April 2022

Articles inside

Aging in Place

Getting Back into the Dating Game

Feeling Puzzled?

Daniel Gill: Thriving While Gardening

From Our Bookshelf

Finance

Hairdos and Don’ts

From Laura