What’s BoundariesEstablishingGrandparentBecomingFirst-Timer’sCoastalTrending:GrandmotherCluba September/October 2022
Being a caregiver takes a special kind of commitment. We know your strength is super, but you’re still human. FIND SUPPORT FOR YOUR STRENGTH . AARP.ORG/CAREGIVING 1-877-333-5885 BUT IF I’M NOT, WHO WILL? DONYOU T HAVE TO BE STRONGSO
Before Papa and I became grandparents, older friends often told us that, “being a grandparent is the only role that isn’t overrated.” It’s true. We have loved being grandparents and think our two grandkids are the most wonderful gift of our lives. They’ve added a lot of fun, entertainment, and soccer games to our senior years.
I’ve told many new grandparents that grandchildren open a chamber in your heart that you didn’t know was there. In time, that chamber fills with love that only a grandchild can fill. We are lucky to have these two great kids in our lives, and I bet if you are reading this and you are a grandparent, you feel the same way.
As with our own kids, grandchildren don’t come with a set of instructions. The relationship, like others, is built on time spent together and evolves over time. Often it is the simple moments–a walk in the park, reading a book together, a board game played past bedtime–that help bond the generations. In this issue, we offer ideas on age-appropriate ways to spend time with grandchildren without breaking the bank. We’ll also explore the importance of family traditions–religious and family traditions–that are handed down from grandparent to parent to child and provide memories that last forever.
Being a grandparent also involves when to say “no,” not only to the little ones but to the adults. Boundary setting is difficult, but must be done so grandparents don’t feel burdened and parents know when to ask and what to expect. Setting healthy boundaries is tricky, and in this issue, you’ll learn how to do this without alienating family members.
It seems as if it were yesterday that my husband and I learned we were going to become grandparents. Baby Rylan arrived in 2006, and nearly three years later, Baby Amelia made her entrance. They are now teenagers, and Papa and I cannot imagine our lives without them. Yes, being a grandparent is the best job on earth. To that end, this issue of Louisiana Boomers is devoted to grandparents. Our genera tion of Boomers is the healthiest, liveliest, and most involved group of grandparents ever, and both kids and grandparents benefit from this unique relationship. In most cases, being a grandparent is better than being a parent because it’s all of the fun, and none of the responsibility.
LAURAFearlessly
yours, Laura Claverie
LABOOMERSMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 3 Publisher BRANDON FOREMAN Associate Publisher AMY L. FOREMAN Business Operations LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations SARAH MILLER Client Relations Coordinator Editorial LAURA CLAVERIE Executive Editor AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor EMILY DREZ Assistant Editor SARAH ANTHONYBATROUSBUI Editorial Assistants Art/Production MELODY TAUZIN Senior Graphic Designer Advertising PATRICK PACHECO Director of Business Development CRYSTAL BARRETT CAMILLE RYNJENNIFERCAVINHOFFMANNWHITESIDE Account Executives Marketing EMILY MANCUSO Director of Marketing MAGGIE SHARP Marketing Assistant Community Development TERI HODGES Director of Community Partnerships ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach Publisher Emeritus ANN BOWER HERREN For reprint information, contact editorial@nolafamily.com Business Office: One Galleria Blvd., Ste. 1900 Metairie, LA 70001 ( 504 ) 866 0555 A publication September/Octoberof2022Issue20
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4 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM 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. A FEW WORDS 3 From Laura 8FEATURES What’s Trending 9 Building Family Traditions 10 Boomers and Boundaries 12 Inexpensive Activities to Do with Grandchildren 13 First-Time Grandparents 14 Are You Babysitting Again? REGULAR TOPICS 6 From Our Bookshelf 16 Feeling Puzzled? 18 On the Geaux OCTOBERSEPTEMBER/CONTENTS202214913
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Cultural Fun with the Grandbabies
If you are interested in doing something fun and exciting that will not only expand your knowledge but also the knowledge of your precious little grandbabies, sign up for the New Orleans Public Library’s Culture Pass. This program gives access to a number of museums throughout the city, for free. All you need is a New Orleans Public Library card and a mind for Checkingexploration.outaCulture Pass is the perfect opportunity to connect and explore in different settings throughout New Orleans. As long as you live in Orleans Parish and are age 18 and older, you and your little ones will gain entry into a world of adventure. Take a journey to the Jaguar Jungle and learn about the ancient Mayan civilization at the Audubon Zoo Yes, the Culture Pass allows for free access to the Zoo. (Free entrance for up to two adults and seven children [ages 18 and under] during regular operating hours)
Let’s explore the underworld and visit Clara and Ruby, two rescued Southern sea otters at the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas. Yes, the Culture Pass gives free entry to the Aquarium. (Free entrance for up to two adults and seven children [ages 18 and under] during regular operating hours). Travel back in time by experiencing Beyond All Boundaries 4D Experience at The National WWII Museum Yes, the Culture Pass provides entry to the World War II Museum. (Free entrance for two adults and four children under 18) In addition to the museums mentioned above, there are also passes available for Hermann-Grima House, Gallier Historic House, New Canal Lighthouse Museum, New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA), and The Ogden Museum of Southern Art Passes must be reserved in advance, which can be done online at culturepass.nolalibrary.org, in person at any New Orleans Public Library branch location, or over the phone by calling any Library location. Culture passes may only be reserved by Library cardholders who live in Orleans Parish and are at least 18 years old. Passes are only valid for the date of visit displayed on the pass confirmation. Printed or digital pass confirmations will be accepted for entry.
Carlette Dennis is a librarian at Cita Dennis Hubbell Library, where she is the assistant manager.
FROM OUR BOOKSHELF
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Eileen Fisher Wide Leg Organic Cotton Pants. nordstrom.comNordstrom.
If your grandchildren are always keeping up with what’s going viral on TikTok, you may have heard them mention the “coastal grand mother aesthetic.” This trending lifestyle features button downs, cashmere sweaters, and wide-leg pants that showcase you can be comfortable and chic. Think Diane Keaton in Something’s Gotta Give with her clean and classic look featuring cotton and linen pieces. This aesthetic even translates into home decor, where you can create a space that is cozy and comfortable, and you’ll feel as if you are living in an oceanfront property.
RebeccaWomen’sBallet
FlatsA New Day. Target. target.com Knit Shacket Revolve. revolve.com
While this trend is new to the younger generation, it’s a lifestyle for actual grandmothers. If you’re looking to add a few new pieces to your wardrobe this season, we’ve pulled together pieces for every day wear that will help us all keep setting the trends this season.
Ramie Pintuck Shirt. Banana bananarepublic.gap.comRepublic
ByGrandmothersCoastalTrending:ChicAmandaMillerJ.CrewOversizedCashmereWrap.
Vince Shaker Stitch V-Neck Wool & Cashmere Cardigan. Nordstrom. nordstrom.com
8 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM What’s
jcrew.comJ.Crew. Women’s Adeline LoafersUniversal Thread. Target. target.com
Cashmere Sweater Polo. Banana bananarepublic.gap.comRepublic.
Family traditions foster special bonds between family members. They can create positive memories and experiences that can give members of a family a strong sense of belonging and security. Family traditions are often very unique to each family. What they do may be something that many families do, but the origins of why they do it is special to each family.
By Anthony Bui
Building Family Traditions
The Importance of Family Traditions
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There is always a unique story behind every tradition that gives it just a little more meaning. For my family, when we have guests come from out of town, we play a couple games of Bingo together. This gives my family a chance to interact with friends and family and spend quality time together. This tradition started when my grandparents visited town when I was younger. My parents never really hung out together with their families often. Growing up, they had to quickly take on multiple jobs and other responsibilities that made it very hard to get quality family time together. So as my grandparents grew older and my siblings and I were growing up, I recall us looking for something to do together when my grandma suggested we play a couple games of Bingo. Playing Bingo quickly caught on, and every time I visit them with my fiancée, we always try to play together as a family. Why is this tradition so important to us? It allowed for my family to pass something down through the generations. My grandmother’s hard work and dedication to her family was honored, and it gave us something to do with the entire family. Grandparents understand that they are at a different time in their lives. If they are able to start and pass down a family tradition, it connects them and gives them some part of themselves that can hopefully be passed down even after they are gone. How to Pass Them On It takes a lot of time and commitment to pull off. While the tradition itself can be fun and meaningful, it can also be very difficult to pull off based on the complexity of the tradition. There has to be someone with the intention of initiating the tradition present, at least at the start. They would have to get the ball rolling until eventually it becomes second nature for the entire family. You also don’t want something overly complex and expensive. That makes organizing and pulling it off more of a daunting and stressful task than something enjoyable and special. In order to create something that people are going to want to pass down from generation to generation, it has to be enjoyable. Find something simple, fun, and easily repeatable, and go from there. Start with things that the family already enjoys doing together. It doesn’t have to be something formal. It just has to be something meaningful to the whole family. A simple, “hey, this was a lot of fun, we should make this a family tradition,” is all it takes sometimes.
Family traditions aren’t thought about until they are no longer there. They are underappreciated and, oftentimes, are things children are forced to do by their parents or grandparents. It isn’t until after the person who initiates the tradition is gone or no longer there that the tradition becomes that much more meaningful. As a grandparent, family traditions are very important. They have meaning, give them something to do together with the family, and keeps their memory alive, even if they pass away, as their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren continue on with the tradition.
10 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM By Emily Drez It’s Okay to Say “No” Boomers and Boundaries:
You still have doctors appointments, get-togethers, and hobbies that fill up your calendar. Let the parents of your grandchildren know that, while you would be happy to babysit for them, you will be too busy some days. Tell them the specific days and times you will be available ahead of time to avoid any conflict. It may also help to give the parents a deadline to ask you for babysitting favors; for example, unless it’s a complete emergency, the parents are not allowed to give you less than a 24-hour notice when they want you to watch their child(ren).
“While you may be happily retired with your spouse and drinking coffee on your porch every morning, that doesn’t always mean you will be available.”
Put Your Foot Down It may be tempting to agree to let your grandchild spend the weekend at your house regardless of their behavioral issues, your busy schedule, or the last-minute phone call from Mom, but you need to put your foot down. If you keep agreeing to babysit, you will keep getting asked to babysit.
The parents may also request that you take the grandchild for a few days and add, “he has a doctor’s appointment Monday afternoon, too,” assuming you’re okay with taking him to the doctor. Whether it’s a doctor’s appointment, a playdate, or driving them to and from school, you don’t have to agree to chauffeur your grandchild if you are uncomfortable with it. Try to compromise with the parents by offering to watch your grandchild another time. If you’re willing to drive, but still want to establish a boundary, offer to pick up your grandchild from daycare, school, or a friend’s house if their parents will drop them off, or vice versa. Have Mutual Respect
According to Divya Saxena, M.S., Family Science Associate, and Sean Brotherson, Ph.D, Family Science Specialist in a North Dakota State University article titled, When Grandparents Become Parents to Their Grandchildren, out of the 7 million grandparents that live with at least one grandchild under the age of 18, “2.5 million grandparents carried the primary responsibility of caring for their grandchildren and meeting their basic needs.”
Communicate Any Concerns Of course, it’s important to tell the parents if their child is exhibiting any concerning behavior, but do not feel obligated to take care of your grandchild’s problems if you are uncomfortable. For example, if your grandchild has frequent temper tantrums, it’s okay to tell the parents that you do not feel comfortable babysitting your grandchild until their behavior is under control. You can still offer advice and be there for the parents when they want a parenting resource, but it’s good to distance yourself from any unwanted stress. After all, you’ve already been a parent! Unless your grandchild needs to be under your care for a specific reason, you should not be expected to do the hard part of parenting again.
Even if you are not your grandchild’s primary caregiver, you may feel like an expectation to babysit your grandchildren has been placed upon you. This can be exhausting no matter how much you love to spoil and dote on your grandchild. So, what should you do when you need a break? Here is a list of ways you can establish boundaries:
“It is also important to consider the grandparents’ schedules,” says Laura Kay House in her Silver Connections blog. “Sure, they would like nothing more in the world than spending time with their grandchildren. But, it isn’t fair, or nice to simply always assume that they would rather watch the kids.”
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It’s important to set boundaries to avoid getting taken advantage of. The conversation may be uncomfortable at first, and it may lead to some disagreements, but it will allow you to have a healthier relationship with your family once things simmer down.
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Just as the parents of your grandchildren need to respect your boundaries, you need to be respectful of their boundaries in order for this to work out. Grandparenting is often all about spoiling the grandchild with things they don’t normally get at home, such as extra sweets and screentime and a later bedtime. However, there may be things the parents would prefer you not do with your grandchild, no matter how much the child begs. While disrespecting the parents’ wishes can be a surefire way they don’t make you babysit your grandchild, it can lead to unnecessary bitterness that may threaten any chance you have of spending quality time with them. This can be avoided with simple gestures of respect.
he world needs grandparents now more than ever. Research shows that, in 2020, one in 10 children in the United States live in a household with at least one grandparent. This could be due to a list of factors: a multigenerational household, a family that needs to take care of a grandparent who cannot live on their own, or, most notably, a grandparent that has been tasked with raising their grandchildren.
Don’t Feel Guilty Lastly, don’t feel bad about setting these boundaries. Everybody needs their space! Your family needs to see you as a person with their own needs rather than a free, unlimited entertainment system.
Share Your Schedule Parents need to understand that your schedule can be just as busy as theirs.
While you may be happily retired with your spouse and drinking coffee on your porch every morning, that doesn’t always mean you will be available.
Things to Play Don’t be afraid to get silly. Children have amazing imaginations and as adults, it can be hard for us to remember how to dive into our own imaginations to play with them. All I can do is ask you to try as playtime is bonding time. Here are some ideas of games and other activities you can try together.
Enjoy the air conditioning and share your favorite books from when you were a child while you read their favorites. Plenty of libraries hold daily storytimes and other events you could attend.
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By Sarah
For animal lovers, visit the zoo, the petting zoo, or go feed ducks while walking in the park. If you want to try something more exciting (that may or may not have you spotting an alligator, a stray duck, or maybe a goose) show them the beginner’s ropes of golfing by playing mini golf. Get ice cream or a snowball together. This was my favorite as a child.
Of course, there are many things you can do together. Put your heads together and figure out something you both would like to try.
Are you having trouble connecting with your grandkids? This issue is a lot more common than you think. Let’s chat about some fun activities you can do with them to deepen your bond and make long-lasting memories.
If you want more sugary snacks, a candy shop, gourmet popcorn store, or classic gas station run are all good choices. You can find any kind of snack imaginable while swapping favorites.
Things to Try, Buy, or Craft
Who doesn’t love a quick trip around town? Here are some ideas for those of you ready to get off the couch and get moving with the Firstgrandkids.stop:thelibrary.
One of the loveliest memories I have of my Nana is going into her garden to help her get herbs for our homemade spaghetti sauce or the time we baked Christmas treats together. Teach your grandchildren life skills like cooking, knitting, sewing, crocheting, gardening, and fishing. It’ll make a huge difference in their lives and yours.
Some classic ideas include hide and go seek, playing “house,” hosting a scavenger hunt around the house, or trying out board games. My favorites from childhood included Candyland, The Game of Life, Clue, and card games like Uno. A family favorite based on dominoes that we always play on vacation is Mexican Train. The world is your oyster when it comes to playtime. At the end of the day, bonding takes time. Children can be slow to warm up and even slower to try new things that intimidate them. Have patience, be malleable with your time, and get ready to enjoy some time together.
Places to Go
Some other crafts and activities to try: -Build and paint a birdhouse -Craft or buy a kite to fly -The art of scrapbooking -Color a coloring book -Solve or put together a puzzle
InexpensiveBatrous Activities to Do with Grandchildren
My fondest memory with my grandpa is riding in his old pickup truck with my younger brother and cousin to get a banana split before he showed us around his job (a film studio). Ice cream is always a winner, no matter how old your grandchildren are!
“I’m going to do the best balancing act of being there but not being too involved. I really do want to give them alone time and privacy because I remember what it was like wanting to spend time alone with my babies,” explains Dr. Pam.
There is something truly wonderful about watching your children love and cherish their babies the way you loved and cherished them as they grew up. If you’re a first-time grandparent, you have nothing to fear. It’s a magical experience full of moments you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
BECOMING a grandparent is both exciting and daunting since there is a lot to consider (and even more to be excited about). Dr. Pamela “Pam” Martin, weighed in on her wants, wishes, and advice about becoming a grandparent. She is a teacher, a dermatopathologist, a ballerina, as well as an avid traveler and reader. You could name anything and Dr. Pam has probably tried it or been there at least once.
As for the role she wishes to play as a grandmother, she just wants to be present and a source of fun. She noted that she would do anything her grandson asks; do handstands, backflips, and whatever else he requests to remain entertained.
When it comes to how the new baby will change her life, she expects to keep her heart and mind open toward the future. Like many grandparents, she understands that her life is going to revolve around spending as much time with the new baby and future grandchildren as possible.
The real excitement comes with the prospect of sharing her favorite activities with her grandson. Plus, with him around, she gets the perfect excuse to act a little silly out in public. After all, who’s going to be judgmental when she’s taking an adorable tyke out to explore this strange and beautiful world? “I love the park, and I’m excited to go to the zoo with him and watch movies. I love kid movies because everybody lives happily ever after,” explains Dr. Pam. “I feel very child-like in my heart, and when your kids become adults, they don’t want to act childish anymore. So now I get to be child-like again by playing with my grandchild.”
Dr. Pam herself notes that she does know how it feels to be a firsttime parent and that relatives, even close ones, do need to be tightlipped with advice (and sometimes light with their assistantance) unless it’s asked of them.
GrandparentsFirst-TimeBySarahBatrous
“My life changed so much for the better when I became a mother; you wonder how you can ever love another child, and then you have more and your heart just grows,” says Dr. Pam. “I’m sure it’s the same for grandchildren, too.”
Of course, being a grandmother isn’t all about fun day in and day out. It’s important for grandparents to keep the new parents’ feelings and time in mind. While they appreciate you coming over and spending time with them and the grandbaby, they need time to bond with him or her as well.
Ultimately, like many first-time grandparents, Dr. Pam is excited about the changes, the ever-expanding love, and the day-to-day excitement that comes with welcoming a little one.
While she is very excited and overjoyed that her family is growing, she does have some anxiety regarding the new addition–the same anxiety that many new parents have: will the baby like me? However, with her experience as a parent, Dr. Pam isn’t too worried.
In October, her eldest daughter, will be welcoming a son. This means Dr. Pam can cross one more thing off her list: grandparenting. “I’m just so excited, I’ve never seen my daughter so happy. I’m happy for her. She’s had a healthy and smooth pregnancy so far,” she shares.
“I have a feeling that I’m going to be making excuses to see him. I look forward to the day that I can take him somewhere. My kids were good travelers, and I’m looking forward to packing him up and seeing where we could go together,” she shares.
Grandparenting seems fun because you have a lot of experience with children already,” she explains.
“I hope this little baby likes me because he is a boy and I’m a bit of a girly girl, but I did have a son so I had a little bit of practice.
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Are You Babysitting Again?
The parenting guide Apt Parenting advises that you should ask about the eating and sleeping habits of the child. You may have to defer to your own children’s guidelines on discipline and behavior.
Assess your health
The way you parent may not be the same way your own children parent. Be humble and follow their lead with regard to instructions.
Many things regarding childcare have changed in the last 20 years, including safety laws and guidelines. Be sure you are up to date on these changes. And if you aren’t certain about something, ask. This involves everything from crib bar widths to car seat installation.
Learn what’s new
Chasing after children can be a workout. Be sure you are up for the challenge and have the stamina. If you have any medical conditions that can impair judgement or reaction time, you might want to reconsider babysitting. Take directions
Babysitting is one way that grandparents can be a frequent fixture in their grandkids’ lives. If it’s been some time since you cared for little children, it’s well worth it to take a refresher course in child care. Make sure it’s safe Conduct a safety audit of your home if grandchildren will be coming over to your place. Are outlets secured with covers? Are medications you may be taking out of reach? Do you have gates to block stairs or restrict access to certain rooms? Modifications may be needed to help keep little ones safe.
Witnessing your children getting older and starting their own lives and families can be bittersweet. There is pride that comes with seeing their successes, but the melancholy of knowing that the years have passed so quickly. Although you may no longer be tucking your children into bed, reading them bedtime stories, or bandaging “boo-boos,” when your children have children, the chance to nurture can start anew. One of the great joys that comes from having older children is the ability to welcome and love grandchildren. Grandchildren are points of light in people’s lives and provide the exuberance and excitement that reminds you of your own youth. Grandparents often are thrilled to be involved in the care and upbringing of their grandkids. Some may also live with their grandchildren to help take some pressures off of adult children.
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By Jane Hill
Babysitting can be a joyous task for grandparents who are ready for the job.
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16 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM Feeling Puzzled? 1. Fall down 5. Gas usage measurement 8. Golf score 11. A superior grade of black tea 13. Wrath 14. Eating house 15. Delay leaving a place 16. People now inhabiting Myanmar 17. Canadian flyers 18. Walks back and forth 20. Frequently 21. Humans have two 22. Surrounds with armed forces 25. Made proper 30. Medical buildings 31. Patty Hearst’s captors 32. Hits with a drop shot 33. Italy’s PM 1919-20 38. Promotions 41. En __: incidentally 43. Queens baseball team 45. Commoner 47. Expenses in insurance world (abbr.) 49. Payroll firm 50. Broadway actress Daisy 55. Skipper butterflies 56. Hint 57. Daniel __, French composer 59. English children’s author Blyton 60. Midway between east and southeast 61. Spiritual leader of a Jewish 62.congregationPatrioticwomen’s group 63. The woman 64. Tall, slender-leaved plant CLUES ACROSS
LABOOMERSMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 17 1. Parts per thousand (abbr.) 2. Jump 3. Eaten as a vegetable 4. Residual paresis after 5.anesthesiaBrunchtime staple 6. Makes money off of 7. Refined 8. Nocturnal S. American rodents 9. From a distance 10. Officials 12. It helps you see 14. Central indigenousCanadianperson 19. Invests in little enterprises 23. They help in tough situations 24. Industrial port in Poland 25. Type of screen 26. Peyton’s little brother 27. Alcoholic beverage 28. Newspapers need it 29. Herbal tea 34. Distinctive practice 35. Exercise system __-bo 36. Explosive 37. Belonging to a thing 39. Presidential candidates engage in them 40. Of the Swedes 41. Meadow-grass 42. “Rule, Britannia” composer 44. Hooray! 45. Greek city 46. One way to do it by example 47. Imitated 48. Game of Thrones actress 51.HeadeySwiss river 52. Drought-resistant plant 53. A French abbot 54. One point east of northeast 58. Get free of R N E G R P T A N D A R A O T I I N D T B K G A N I N I N K I T G T A R N F G M I R A M G A N D R A P G A N D P R I A T I N P A E C O U I C G N A E D E M E M I R S O WORD SCRAMBLE Rearrange the letters to spell a word related to grandparents. GRANDPARENTTRADITIONBAKINGKNITTINGFARMINGAPPRECIATIONGRANDMAGRANDPAGUIDANCEMEMORIES CLUES DOWN
TASTE OF LOUISIANA: HANDS-ON CAJUN CLASS AND LUNCH
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. nps.gov
FRENCH QUARTER HISTORY TALK French Quarter Visitor Center of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve at 9:30 a.m. Join Rangers to learn about the rich cultural history that makes New Orleans the special place that it is. nps.gov
CHALMETTE BATTLEFIELD SEWING CIRCLE Chalmette Battlefield at noon. Beginners are welcome, no experience needed. nps.gov
ALLSTATE LOUISIANA KICKOFF - LSU VS. FLORIDA STATE Caesars Superdome at 6:30 p.m. caesarssuperdome.com
FREE FAMILY SUNDAY Longue Vue Gardens at 4 p.m. Bring a picnic or purchase snacks, explore the children’s Discovery Garden, and make yourself at home in their eight beautiful acres. longuevue.com
GRETNA FARMERS MARKET Historic downtown Gretna from 8:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Enjoy fresh local produce and crafts. gretnala.com
ON THE GEAUX September
The Southern Food & Beverage Museum at 11 a.m. Hands-on cooking class where you will be learning about Creole culture and cooking techniques. southernfood.org
Contemporary Art Center New Orleans at 7:30 p.m. cacno.org
COMEDY GUMBEAUX Howlin’ Wolf at 8 p.m. A night of laughs, food, and good fun awaits you. thehowlinwolf.com
4 Sunday
ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER 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. nps.gov
HISTORIC THIBODAUX WALKING TOUR Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center at 10 a.m. Join a ranger for a stroll through downtown Thibodaux and hear the stories of its past. nps.gov
SENIOR THURSDAYS Infinity Science Center. If you’re over age 55, you’ve earned respect and some discounts at INFINITY. visitinfinity.com
6 Tuesday
5 Monday BEAR WITH ME OPEN MIC 12 Mile Limit at 7:30 p.m. Every Monday. bearnanza.com
COLORS BY LAVEAU CONTRAIRE
1 Thursday
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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. nps.gov
3 Saturday
Caesars Superdome at noon. The Saints take on the Buccaneers. caesarssuperdome.com
The National WWII Museum at 1:00 p.m. The Victory Belles are a delightful vocal trio performing the music of the 1940s. nationalww2museum.org.
18 Sunday
Longue Vue House and Gardens at 1 p.m. Grab a friend and join them for this relaxing cut flower workshop. longuevue.com
MUSIC ON THE BAYOU Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center at 6 p.m. Discover the wide range of south Louisiana’s music: zydeco, gospel, blues, jazz, and Cajun. nps.gov
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15 Thursday ORPHEUM SESSION: OPENING NIGHT: MAHLER NO. 1 The Orpheum Theater at 7:30 p.m. Experience the cracks of thunder and lightning as Mahler’s “Titan” Symphony anchors the start of the LPO’s 32nd Season with this special performance. lpomusic.com O WHAT A NIGHT! GALA CELEBRATING AND SUPPORTING THE ART OF THE AMERICAN SOUTH Ogden Museum of Southern Art at 6 p.m. ogdenmuseum.org
Columbia Street at 6 p.m. Enjoy a free block party and classic car show on Columbia Street in downtown Covington. There will be live music, food, and drinks available for all to enjoy. gocovington.org
THE DINNER DETECTIVE DoubleTree by Hilton New Orleans Airport at 6 p.m. Solve a hilarious mystery while you feast on a fantastic dinner. thedinnerdetective.com
SWEET POTATO QUEENS Jefferson Performing Arts Society at 7:30 on Fridays and Saturdays, and at 2 p.m. on Sundays through October 2. jpas.org
11 Sunday ZUMBA WITH THE MAYOR TBA. Enjoy Zumba with the Mayor. covla.com
7 Wednesday BIKE NIGHT NOLA Motorsports Park at 5 p.m. NOLA Motorsports Park is welcoming cyclists of all ages and skill levels to grab their bike and come pedal NOLA Motorsports Park’s 2.75 mile FIA grade 2 road nolamotor.com/bike-nightcourse.
BOGUE FALAYA RIVER SWEEP Bogue Falaya Wayside Park and Pavilion at 9 a.m. covla.com
THE VICTORY BELLS MATINEE LUNCHEON BB’s Stage Door Canteen at 11:45 a.m. The music of the 1940s brought hope and joy to our GIs and those on the Home Front alike. The Victory Belles keep that tradition alive in rich, three-part harmony. Join in on the fun for a short program by the museum’s trio with a buffet nationalww2museum.orglunch.
ULTIMATE INDOOR GARAGE SALE
10 Saturday ARTS MARKET PRESENTED BY ARTS COUNCIL NEW ORLEANS Goldring/Woldenberg Great Lawn at 10 a.m. Take a stroll and discover a variety of works from jewelry and ceramics to paintings and woodworks. artsneworleans.org
The Orpheum Theater at 7:30 p.m. The orchestra is led in Tchaikovsky’s final symphony by Music Director of the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, Matt Kraemer. lpomusic.com. 24 Saturday BEIGNET FEST New Orleans City Park Festival Grounds at 10 a.m. beignetfest.com
Elmwood Self Storage & Wine Cellar at 8 a.m. There will be a face painter for the kids in the morning and concessions sold for charity all day. ARNO will be onsite with adoptable pets. elmwoodselfstorage.com.
20 Tuesday
8 Thursday HEY Y’ALL ART TALK Ogden Museum of Southern Art at 12:30 p.m. Join for a participatory gallery tour of Ogden Museum. ogdenmuseum.org
THE VICTORY BELLES VIGNETTE
22 Thursday ORPHEUM SESSION 2: FOUNTAINS OF ROME & TCHAIKOVSKY 6
14 Wednesday HARRISON AVENUE MARKETPLACE Harrison Avenue at 5 p.m. The Harrison Avenue Marketplace is a great venue for the Lakeview community to enjoy family, friends, food, and live harrisonavenuemarketplace.orgentertainment.
SUNSET AT THE LANDING CONCERT Columbia Street Landing at 6 p.m. Be a part of Sunset at the Landing Concert. covla.com
COOKIE DECORATING FOR ADULTS Culinary Kids at 5:30 p.m. Learn techniques like cookie painting, lacing, flooding and shading, and make royal icings, flavored sugar cookies, and drop cookies. culinarykidsns.com
PELICAN GREENHOUSE PLANT SALE City Park at 8 a.m. With hundreds of varieties of plants, there’s something everyone will love. neworleanscitypark.com
SAINTS VS. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
LAFRENIERE PARK FARMERS & ART MARKET Lafreniere Park at 2 visitjeffersonparish.comp.m.
JASON ALDEAN: ROCK N’ ROLL COWBOY TOUR 2022 The Smoothie King Center at 7:30 p.m. smoothiekingcenter.com
NOLA TEAM HOPE WALK & EDUCATION DAY Ochsner Medical Center at 8 a.m. The event
16 Friday COLUMBIA STREET BLOCK PARTY
EARTH, WIND & FIRE
FALL ARRANGINGFLOWERINGWORKSHOP
The Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. saengernola.com
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. nps.gov
1 Saturday
25 Sunday STEVE MARTIN AND MARTIN SHORT
26 Monday SOUND BATH WITH SWAN MICHELLE Longue Vue House and Gardens at 6:30 p.m. Created by Swan Michelle, this event is a Swan River Yoga original. It is a sound therapy concert, experienced lying down, designed to recalibrate the nervous system and cleanse the energy body while in conscious stillness. longuevue.com
29 Thursday CONCERT SERIES PETER ATKINS PARK TBA. Free concert in the park. covla.com
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October
The Saenger Theatre at 7 p.m. Steve Martin and Martin Short’s “You Won’t Believe What They Look Like Today!” is a show that redefines the form in unexpected and profound ways, from two of the funniest, most influential and acclaimed talents of the past century. saengernola.com
NATIVE PLANT PROPAGATION FOR BEGINNERS WORKSHOP Longue Vue House and Garden at 1 p.m. Join Director of Gardens Amy Graham to learn how to make plants with plants. Seed saving, storing, and cutting reproduction will be covered in this hands-on workshop. longuevue.com
ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER 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. nps.gov
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. nps.gov
30 Friday COLUMBIA STREET BLOCK PARTY Columbia Street at 6 p.m. Enjoy a free block party and classic car show on Columbia Street in downtown Covington. Live music, food, and drinks will be available. gocovington.org ST. TAMMANY PARISH FAIR TBA. covla.com
CHALMETTE BATTLEFIELD SEWING CIRCLE Chalmette Battlefield at noon. Beginners are welcome, no experience needed. nps.gov will kick off with breakfast, and education day, and then end with a Team Hope Walk. louisiana.hdsa.org
9 Sunday SAINTS VS. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS Caesars Superdome at caesarssuperdome.comnoon.
22 Saturday
HISTORIC THIBODAUX WALKING TOUR Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center at 10 a.m. nps.gov
GRETNA HERITAGE FESTIVAL City of Gretna. experienceneworleans.com
15 Saturday 31ST ANNUAL WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL Water Street at Hwy 21. at 10 a.m. 100 classic boats, hundreds of spectator boats and wooden boats, and music enthusiasts for this two-day celebration. allevents.in SEED COLLECTING WORKSHOP
FRIED CHICKEN FESTIVAL Lakeshore Drive at 1 p.m. Celebration of quintessential southern dishes with music, contests, and friedchickenfestival.comactivities.
Longue Vue House and Gardens at 1 p.m. longuevue.com MCA HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE
DISNEY’S “THE LION KING” The Saenger Theatre at 7:30 p.m. saengernola.com
FALL FLOWER ARRANGING WORKSHOP
7 Friday GENTILLY FEST Gentilly’s Pontchartrain Park. A weekend of music, food, and family fun. The familyfriendly festival is free and open to the public. experienceneworleans.com
29 Saturday
14 Friday
The Orpheum Theater at 7:30 p.m. Guest conductor Robert Moody, Music Director of Arizona Musicfest and The Memphis Symphony Orchestra, leads the orchestra in an iconic work, Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. lpomusic.com.
COLUMBIA STREET BLOCK PARTY Columbia Street at 6 p.m. gocovington.org
FRENCH QUARTER HISTORY TALK French Quarter Visitor Center of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve at 9:30 a.m. nps.gov
3 Monday PICKLEBALL CLASSES Mell Ott Multipurpose Center at 9 a.m. for beginners, 11 a.m. for intermediate, and 1 p.m. for advanced. visitjeffersonparish.com
13 Thursday ORPHEUM SESSION 3: PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION
Mount Carmel Academy’s Mother Thérèse Chevrel Assembly Center at 9 a.m. Shop local art, crafts, and handmade items. mcacubs.com
GRETNA FARMERS MARKET Historic downtown Gretna from 8:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Enjoy fresh local produce and crafts. gretnala.com
NORTHSHORE OKTOBERFEST Mandeville Trailhead at 5 p.m. A traditional, German, family-friendly Oktoberfest that is also a fundraiser and awareness event for cholangiocarcinoma. covla.com
SUNSET AT THE LANDING CONCERT Columbia Street Landing at 6 p.m. Be a part of Sunset at the Landing Concert. covla.com
28 Friday COLUMBIA STREET BLOCK PARTY Columbia Street at 6 p.m. gocovington.org
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16 Sunday SAINTS VS. CINCINNATI BENGALS Caesars Superdome at caesarssuperdome.comnoon.
FALL FEST Longue Vue House and Gardens at 3 p.m. longuevue.com 30 Sunday SAINTS VS. LAS VEGAS RAIDERS Caesars Superdome at caesarssuperdome.comnoon.
Longue Vue House and Gardens at 1 p.m. longuevue.com
4 Tuesday MUSIC ON THE BAYOU Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center at 6 p.m. Discover the wide range of south Louisiana’s music: zydeco, gospel, blues, jazz, and Cajun. nps.gov
CHRIS STAPLETON: ALL-AMERICAN ROAD SHOW
27 Thursday
50TH ANNUAL GEM, MINERAL, FOSSIL, & JEWELRY SHOW Alario Center at 10 visitjeffersonparish.coma.m.
SUNSET SYMPHONY Mandeville Lakefront Park at 6 p.m. lpomusic.com
8 Saturday BLUESBERRY MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL Bogue Falaya Park at 11:30 a.m. covla.com
12 Wednesday HARRISON AVENUE MARKETPLACE Harrison Avenue at 5 p.m. The Harrison Avenue Marketplace is a great venue for the Lakeview community to enjoy family, friends, food and live harrisonavenuemarketplace.orgentertainment.
6 Thursday SENIOR THURSDAYS Infinity Science Center. If you’re over age 55, you’ve earned respect and some discounts at INFINITY. visitinfinity.com
THE DINNER DETECTIVE DoubleTree by Hilton New Orleans Airport at 6 p.m. Solve a hilarious mystery while you feast on a fantastic dinner. thedinnerdetective.com
21 Friday
The Smoothie King Center at 7 p.m. smoothiekingcenter.com
20 Thursday GAMES IN THE GARDEN Longue Vue House and Gardens at 4 p.m. longuevue.com
22 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 | LABOOMERSMAG.COM
