Nola Boomers September/October 2019

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Louisiana’s Own Knucklehead

Dave Malone p. 6

Getting High on Relief:

CBD p. 22

MENopause! p. 25

Computer Classes

GET TECH CONFIDENT p. 26

Get Out There Events & Freebies p. 32

YOUR HERO

CARED FOR YOU.

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

NOW, YOU CARE FOR HER.

2

Find the Care Guides you need to care for your loved one at

aarp.org/caregiving 1-877-333-5885

publisher/editor ANN BOWER HERREN ann@nolaboomers.com managing editor TIM MEYER tim@nolaboomers.com executive editor LAURA CLAVERIE claverip@gmail.com office manager JENNY ZIGLIN jenny@nolaboomers.com advertising sales ANN BOWER HERREN ann@nolaboomers.com edit interns THYME HAWKINS design intern ANNA HOLDEN marketing/communications intern JILLIAN KAUFMAN RHONISHA RIDGEWAY designer CAT LANDRUM 2ND STORY CREATIVE ad production SARA YOUNGBLOOD contributing photography TWIRL PHOTOGRAPHY

For reprint information, contact ann@nolaboomers.com Business Office:

504.866.0555 A publication of

september/october 2019 volume 2, issue 5 The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and/or contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the magazine or its advertisers.

Every now and then a story hits a nerve with readers, and even the writer. Such was the case in the last issue when we published my story about a newly-formed organization, Elect Louisiana 60+. This group encourages those over the age of 60 to run for public office. The need is great. Since the Jindal administration’s draconian cutbacks, Louisiana has fallen from No. 14 in the country in in-home services for the elderly to No. 48. Our state has some of the highest health care costs in the country and still ranks No. 50 in senior health. Shame, shame, shame.

It’s obvious that we have too few representatives in Baton Rouge fighting for seniors. So I contacted local state representative candidates in the upcoming November election and asked if senior issues were on his or her platform. Not one candidate included seniors. To date, only two hopefuls have added seniors issues to their platforms. One candidate is considering adding senior needs and another candidate blew me off.

Boomers, get aggressive. Call the candidates, attend their fundraisers, work for change. We must do better.

Politicians, take note. Senior citizens have the highest percentage of voter turnout of any segment of the voting population. There are more than one million Louisiana residents over the age of 60. Our votes matter.

I’m happy to welcome Dave Malone, long-time Radiators guitarist to our cover. Those of us who were in college in the ‘70s followed the band at local clubs and on the Tulane Quad. His band retired in 2010, but lucky fans can catch them annually at the Jazz and Heritage Festival.

Have you noticed the number of CBD shops that have popped up in our city? And have you tried CBD for pain management, stress relief, or as a sleep aid? After reading our enlightening article on this new health option, you might be inspired to give it a try. Or not.

And what a treat it is to feature Hertha Bart, a 94-year-old yoga practitioner. Hertha retired from actively teaching yoga after Katrina, but keeps up with the practice in her Uptown condo. I have been practicing yoga consistently for 20 plus years, so reading her story gave me hope that I’ll be sitting it lotus, saying my mantra when I am her age.

Namaste, y’all.

Fearlessly Yours,

Laura Claverie

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

8131 Oak St., Ste. 500, New Orleans, LA 70118

FROM LAURA

3

CONTENTS SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Cover Story Musician Dave Malone p. 6

A FEW WORDS 3

From Laura

5

From the Editor

FEATURES 12

Keeping Pace Family Caregiver Gets a Break

20

At Your Service

More Options For Aging in Place

22

Getting High on Relief

What is Cannabidiol?

30

Music to Your Ears

Why Learning Piano is Good for You

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

REGULAR TOPICS

4

9

Finances

Gray Divorces

ON THE COVER

14

Travel

The accidental brilliance of Dave Malone and The Radiators.

Blue Ridge Pkwy, N.C.

17

Aging In NOLA

Cane Empowerment

25

Health

26

Technology

Photo by Twirl Photography.

32

Is Male Menopause a Thing?

Computer Confidence Classes

Freebies

New Section: Book & Conversation Groups

35

On the Go

Where, when, and what to do around town

CONTRIBUTORS VALERIE ANDREWS is a writer and communication strategist. She has been published in the Journal for Minority Medical Students, the Nursing and Allied Health Journal, and Ascension Parish magazine.

PAMELA MARQUIS has lived in New Orleans for more than 40 years. She is a freelance writer and holds a master’s in social work from the University of Missouri.

KEITH MARSHALL began his writing career in 1973 as The Times-Picayune’s representative in Europe. He has also written travel, art and architecture, and feature articles for major newspapers and magazines.

KATE STEVENS is a freelance writer and frequent contributor to our sister publication, Nola Family.

KATHY BROWN VAN ZUTPHEN is an attorney with offices in Gulfport, Miss., and New Orleans.

is our amazing editorial intern.

One whole year. Can you believe it? This issue marks one year of Nola Boomers. Our first issue, September/ October 2018, began a new era for New Orleans residents 50 and older, and we hope we’ve served our community well so far. Judging by the almost weekly phone calls to the office from excited readers, I’d say we’re doing something right.

Of course, we love getting those weekly phone calls, but after listing what you loved about the recent issue, let us know what you think we’re missing. What do our readers want? Contact me at our office at 504.866.0555 or my email, tim@nolaboomers.com.

Some of my personal favorites from the past year include our cover story on Mackie Shilstone, “Made of Shilstone” (May/June ‘19); the feature on green burials (July/Aug. ‘19); and our “Grand Sacrifices” (March/April ‘19) story about grandmothers raising their grandkids.

They each represent what makes Nola Boomers perfect for Nola Boomers: a different look at a wellknown local figure, a funky feature on death and the environment, and a spotlight on a disheartening trend for grandparents.

But we’re just getting started. We have big plans for the future of Nola Boomers, including continuing our lineup of New Orleans-flavored cover story personalities; articles on social, health, fitness, tech, and other issues; and other features on need-to-know and want-to-know topics.

Here’s to another year,

Tim Meyer

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

THYME HAWKINS

FR OM THE EDITOR

5

Just a Lucky le k nuc head K It’s always been about the music for

Tipitina’s is home-away-from-home for Dave Malone, and a frequent stomping ground for The Radiators.

Dave Malone,

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

but since The Radiators have retired, he’s getting back to his Huck Finn-like, River Parish roots.

6

As a young man, Dave Malone, guitarist/vocalist for The Radiators, worked for MaBell. He climbed telephone poles and repaired damaged phone wires. However, that work frequently took a back seat to his burgeoning music career.

“The band started traveling a lot and I’d call in sick,” he says. “We were up in New York and I called in sick again and my boss said, ‘C’mon, Dave, we know you’re in New York,’ and I said ‘But I am sick,’ and he said. ‘And you are fired.’ That was my last and only nonmusic job.”

“The Rads are My Beatles” The New Orleans Radiators consists of Malone, Ed Volker, Camile Baudoin, Reggie Scanlan, and Frank Bua Jr. In 1978, the band began playing local venues such as Luigi’s, Jimmy’s, and the Dream Palace.

They quickly found a fan base, especially among Tulane University students, many of whom claimed that the band was their major.

“I first saw the Radiators on the Tulane Quad in 1978,” says Tulane alumnus and longtime fan, Ken Steinberg. “I’ve been a very happy

man ever since. The Rads are my Beatles. Their music brings smiles, dancing, and such great musical pleasure.”

Malone thinks the band was accidentally brilliant because they let concert attendees tape their shows.

“They’d ask if they could tape us and we’d say, ‘Sure,’” he says. “It got to the point where our soundman had a patch made for the soundboard so people could plug in their decks.”

Malone knew something was up when they showed up for a performance at the Lone Star Cafe in New York and there was a long line weaving around the block.

“All those Tulane students went home and shared our music with their brothers and sisters and friends and they were all there waiting to hear us play.”

“Back in a New Hampshire college dorm room in 1988, a friend of mine gave me a cassette tape of this band his buddy, who went to Tulane, was raving about and he wanted me to check it out,” says Steve Pearl. “The cassette he gave me was a live Rads show

from Tipitina’s from 1986. I finally saw them in 1989 and was completely blown away. It was the start of a 30-plus year love affair!”

Malone says another part of building their fan base happened in the early ‘80s when the Radiators became the designated musical entertainment for the infamous M.O.M.’s Ball.

“Fans began organizing themselves into regional clubs, holding balls featuring us like the Krewe of DADs in Minneapolis,” he says. “These krewes were fearlessly creative.

We could always see the effort they put into replicated the experience. So we tried to match their enthusiasm and passion.”

“Everything that used to be easy isn’t anymore,” he says. “I’m glad to be here, but now that I know how to play these damn things (guitars) I can’t always play what I want to play. Because of diabetes, I get a tingling in my fingers when I play now. I try to just push through it.”

Though he did a lot of traveling with the band and played internationally and throughout the U.S., he’s finally taking some time to do a bit of high-quality traveling. He recently returned from a Danube River cruise on Europe’s second longest river.

“People always said, ‘Oh, you got to see so many places,’” he says. “But let me tell you what it was like: it was an airport, a

“You know, the truth is that the businesS of music sucks, but the making of music does not suck.”

The band eventually signed with Epic Records and went on to enjoy a long stellar career. After 33 years and more than 4,500 performances, in 2010, the band retired.

“It was just time to do something different,” Malone says.

“Being on the road constantly can be fun and rewarding but it’s tough. It eventually just wore us down.”

To the delight of their fans, The Radiators still reunite once a year to close out a stage at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, along with several concerts at Tipitina’s.

Malone grew up in Edgard, Louisiana. After high school graduation, he immediately left for New Orleans. He now lives in Prairieville with his wife of 30 years, Beth James, and he keeps a small apartment in New Orleans where he crashes after late-night gigs and rehearsals.

Malone threw himself into music and songwriting after seeing the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show.

“Their damn music was everything to me; I was gobsmacked by the Beatles. I began practicing my guitar until my fingers bled.”

Malone’s younger brother, Tommy, who is with another legendary New Orleans band, The Subdudes, says his brother is just a natural musician.

Lifestyle Modifications The only thing Dave Malone hasn’t enjoyed about his lifelong career is all the things not associated with music.

“You know the truth is that the business of music sucks, but the making of music does not suck.”

On August 29, Malone turned 68 and is aging gracefully with a few lifestyle modifications. His thermos, which once contained Southern Comfort, now holds hot coffee. He’s trying to cut down on his consumption of butter crunch ice cream, he curtailed his cigarette smoking, he takes Cannabidiol (CBD) supplement to help him get a good night’s rest, and is learning to live with diabetes.

Malone is also keeping busy with a variety of projects. He still occasionally performs with his other band, Raw Oyster Cult.

And, he’s working with drummer Kevin Aucoin and guitarist Joe Tullos on a CD that’s loosely based on growing up in Louisiana’s river parishes. Tullos and Malone are writing all the songs.

“As a kid, I was swimming in the river all the time,” he says. “I was Huck Finn, but with lots more music.”

He’s also rehearsing a project that features low-end (frequency) instruments such as bass guitars, tubas, and baritone saxophones. Plus, there’s talk about relaunching “The Last Waltz 40 Tour.”

“It celebrated the 40th anniversary of The Last Waltz and had people like Dr. John, Cyril Neville, and Taj Mahal,” he says. “I enjoyed it the first time around and look forward to possibly doing it again. I’m just always trying to create and do interesting things.”

Lucky Knucklehead One thing is abundantly clear, Malone is eternally grateful to the band’s many devoted fans, who absolutely thrive listening to their boys bring the noise and who relish in receiving a bit of the band’s unique New Orleans music therapy.

“We are more than fans and friends,” says Gayla Owen. “It’s the family you choose in which you can feel the love flowing back and forth, extending to the band members and then back from them. It’s a unique bond where you truly radiate.”

Malone says that this fan family is otherworldly and splendiferous.

“I’m an incredibly lucky knucklehead from Edgard, Louisiana, who sincerely believes music is meant to bring joy and that it does have the power to heal.”

Pamela Marquis has lived in New Orleans for more than 40 years. She is a freelance writer and holds a master’s in social work from the University of Missouri.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

“He’s got a great sense of pitch, a great ear, and he can really harmonize,” Tommy says. “The dude can hear a melody once and then jump right in. And as a performer, he’s always had charisma. He’s where your eyes go on stage. He’s just got it.”

hotel, and a concert hall. Now I have the time to enjoy the full experience.”

7

8

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

GRAY DIVORCES

People get divorced all the time, but what makes those 50 and older more likely to call it quits.

While the overall divorce rate has declined over the past 20 years, it has doubled for the segment of the population over age 50. Obviously, there are important financial considerations in any divorce, but these so-called “gray divorces” may involve even greater pitfalls because the financial assets at stake are typically larger and each party have less time to recover from the financial loss.

Nevertheless, divorce has an apparent appeal to the over 50 population.

Why would a couple, who may have been together for 20 to 30 years, or more, decide to divorce? The reasons are complex, but here are at least five of the top reasons that many long-term couples decide to call it quits:

MONEY

According to the survey, those who said that they have a great marriage were almost twice as likely to talk about money daily or weekly compared to those who said that their marriage was in crisis.

With older couples, once they retire and the income stream stops, the couple is forced to live on a fixed income, plus whatever they have saved for retirement. This new financial dynamic may

SEX According to data from a recent General Social Survey, men, in general, are more likely than women to cheat: 20 percent of men and 13 percent of women reported that they’ve had sex with someone other than their spouse while married. Conventional wisdom may lead you to think that younger couples are more tempted to step out on their marital partner, but infidelity, for both men and women, actually increases during the middle ages.

“... it appears that a sexual phenomenon occurred shifting infidelity to the middle age population ... ”

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

Regardless of your age or the duration of your marriage, money issues are one of the main reasons stated by most couples for fighting and wanting to get a divorce. According to a new survey by businessman Dave Ramsey, both high levels of debt and a lack of communication or agreement about the debt are major causes for the stress and anxiety surrounding household finances. The larger a couple’s consumer debt, the more likely the couple were to say that money was one of the top issues for arguments.

exacerbate tensions over differences in spending habits. Whatever financial stressor that may have been overlooked previously becomes abundantly clear and may be quite sobering in retirement.

Therefore, if you are not comfortable with, or cannot come to an agreement about, the level of debt and spending that you have as a couple, it can lead to fights and divorce could be on the horizon.

9

In 1996, Viagra, an erectile dysfunction drug, received FDA approval and then made available for sale in 1998. Coincidentally, between 2000 and 2009, it appears that a sexual phenomenon occurred shifting infidelity to the middle age population with the highest rate of infidelity reported by men ages 60 to 69 (29 percent) and women ages 50 to 59 (17 percent), and we are continuing to see the aging of this infidelity trend.

It is realistic to state that infidelity is strongly correlated to divorce, as 40 percent of adults who have cheated on their spouse before are currently divorced or separated, while only 17 percent of adults who were faithful to their spouse are currently divorced.

INCOMPATIBILITY Most states have adopted some basis for obtaining a divorce so that one spouse does not have to make nasty allegations against the other spouse in court. Some refer to this as a no-fault divorce. There is typically a requirement that the couple have lived separate and apart for long enough for the law to conclude that they have no intention of continuing to be married.

In general, the basis for this divorce is that the couple cannot continue to live in peace and happiness together because they are incompatible and cannot work out the differences. About 80 percent of divorces are filed upon such no-fault grounds, but in reality, there are probably deeper reasons that lead to the divorce and such allegations are just a convenient way to end the relationship.

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

HAVE SIMPLY GROWN APART

10

Some couples just simply grow apart. It may be because one person wants to live it up while the other is a couch potato or they are just interested in living in a different manner. One may want to travel the world, while the other wants a daily established routine. There may not be infidelity or a major blow up, but some other changes, such as retirement or empty nest syndrome, has caused one or both to no longer be busy focusing on children or career and they discover that they have been growing farther apart with each passing year.

Now that the couple has more time on their hands, they realize they no longer know their spouse or feel compatible. Also, with older couples, they may have felt regret and unhappiness for a long time, but did not make the decision to leave until it was triggered by an opportunity, such as retirement or an empty nest. For some, it is a sense that they do not want to spend their remaining years in an unhappy marriage and want the opportunity to seek greater happiness. No matter the reason,

many find that their middle age years bring an opportunity to break up.

TRYING TO STALL OR REVERSE AGING Perhaps the classic situation that people think about in a gray divorce is that a spouse is trying to stall or reverse aging. After so many years of looking, dressing, or feeling the same way, the person wants to change the way they look or the way they live their life. They may want to lose weight, improve their appearance, feel younger, and trade in their spouse for someone younger.

According to a 2016 Pew Research Center analysis, 1 in 5 men who remarry wed a woman at least 10 years their junior. By contrast, only 1 in 20 men on their first marriage pair up with someone that young. While 80 percent of men in their first marriages have spouses within five years of their age, that share drops to 57 percent by the second marriage.

For women, the numbers are essentially the reverse; 7 percent of women have spouses more than 10 years their senior in their first marriages, a share that nearly doubles to 13 percent by the second marriage.

Interestingly, though, some women are also more likely to marry younger men on their second trip to the altar. Only 3 percent of women in their first marriages walk down the aisle with men more than five years younger than them. By the second marriage, that share rises to 11 percent. So, for at least 11 percent of the ladies in their second marriage, marrying a younger man also has an appeal.

Despite the reason, any person contemplating a divorce should discuss it with an attorney to ensure that they do not face an unintended financial crisis as a result. If someone over the age of 50 is contemplating a divorce, it is even more critical to look at the financial impact before making the leap.

Kathy Brown Van Zutphen is an attorney with offices in Gulfport, Miss., and New Orleans. She can be reached at 504.264.5899.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

11

KEEPING WITH FAMILY CAREGIVING

Family caregivers often forsake their own mental and physical health for the sake of their aging loved ones, but it doesn’t have to be this way.

Caring for those who once cared for us is an honorable action usually borne out of concern for the dignity and respect of loved ones.

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

Often, the burden for those who take on the task of caregiving comes with a degree of unfamiliar navigation. Caregivers face many obstacles as they balance caregiving with other demands, including their own aging, child rearing, careers, and relationships.

They are at an increased risk for stress, depression, and a variety of other health complications from the often thankless responsibilities, especially when a loved one has experienced a change-of-life incident such as a stroke, a fall, or the diagnosis of dementia.

12

Worldwide, around 50 million people have dementia. Every year, there are nearly 10 million new cases. The estimated portion of the general population aged 60 and over with dementia at a given time is between 5–8 percent, according to the World Health Organization. People with dementia generally require higher levels of care, most of which are usually provided by an inexperienced family member in the home.

“Family members are often thrown into the caregiving role with little preparation,” says Trisha Ventura, occupational therapist with the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) of Greater New Orleans. “Caregivers face many challenges such as isolation, exhaustion, and guilt.”

PACE GNO, an affiliated ministry of Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans, is an adult daycare center specializing in nursing home-level care. It offers repose during the day so family caregivers can go to work, run errands, or just take a break.

New Orleans resident Patricia Davidson faced these same obstacles when she took on the mantle of caregiver for her elderly father.

Bringing Pops Home Davidson’s parents divorced when she was in her teens and had not really seen her father (or Pops, as she calls him) for nearly 30 years. Pops was living in California with an aunt when Davidson learned that she could no longer care for him. Davidson faced a daunting decision. What will happen to Pops? So, she and her daughter traveled to California to investigate.

The trip revealed a different man than she remembered, and a lot of what she saw shocked her — harsh language, disrespect, and isolation — and she wondered if Pops would be happier with her in New Orleans. Davidson remembered what her mother always told her: “[Pops] will always be your father.”

After a month, Davidson decided to make a move. She gave Pops an ultimatum: either stay in California and move to a nursing home or take the leap and move in with her in New Orleans. To her surprise, he wanted to go with her to New Orleans.

But after just a few months back home, she knew she was into something deeper than she had expected.

After moving from California and suffering from dementia, Herman “Pops” Davidson had to adjust to a new life with a daughter he barely knew.

Photo by Michiel Birkhoff.

G PACE A New Way of Life Coupled with the fact that Pops was now in a new environment with new surroundings and a new way of life, which often fuels the anxiety of someone who is at any stage of dementia, was the issue of Davidson and Pops not really knowing each other. They needed to learn how to communicate with each other all over again.

When taking Pops to various medical appointments, they would be at each other’s throats even before the doctor could be seen. By the fifth month, and after turning her dining room into his television room and the adjacent room into his bedroom, she felt like she had no life outside of caring for Pops. She didn’t know what to do.

“Family caregivers face many challenges to accommodate the needs of their loved ones,” Ventura says. “Often times, caregivers must give up or change their work situation or put retirement plans on hold. Families often must exhaust financial resources to provide in-home personal care or make costly home modifications. Even the extra cost of food and basic essentials can be a strain on a caregiver’s budget.”

Finally, Davidson asked a friend about adult daycares or other resources where she could find help. Her friend asked if she had heard about PACE. After speaking with the enrollment department there, and ultimately enrolling Pops, life changed for both of them.

At PACE, Davidson met Ventura, who has worked with PACE clients for more than 12 years. Ventura is one of a handful of occupational therapists in the South who are certified to deliver Skills2Care, a research-tested occupational therapy program that benefits both caregivers and people with dementia. The program aims to improve the well-being and skills of caregivers and to reduce challenging behaviors and slow the decline in daily function of people with dementia.

Trisha worked with Davidson to understand how certain triggers would upset Pops, resulting in resistance and anger.

Pops, like all humans are creatures of routine. Pops’ routine was changed drastically. The Skills2Care occupational therapy sessions emphasized education about dementia, strategies to help calm Pops and his resistance to care, and caregiver wellness and relaxation. Davidson learned how to more effectively communicate with Pops, providing both of them with opportunities for meaningful engagement.

These new strategies made daily life much easier, easing the burden Davidson felt as Pop’s primary caregiver. Occupational therapy sessions also focused on ways to ensure Davidson would not forget about her own self-care.

A New New Way of Life Pops now loves the back deck of Davidson’s home in the upper 9th Ward. The deck opens to an open-air, spacious backyard where chickens roam freely. It’s the first place he goes to in the morning and again after dinner before watching his favorite TV shows. Pops also established a new routine by attending the adult daycare center close to his new home.

Davidson, too, has found new ways to embrace her role as caregiver while taking care of herself. Davidson can now go to the gym on a regular basis and shop when she needs to without worrying about who is watching Pops.

“Adult daycare centers offer a safe environment while their family caregivers tend to everyday life,” Ventura says. “They provide social opportunities, cognitive stimulation, and a wide variety of physical activities. This active engagement throughout the day can reduce challenging behaviors at home.”

Davidson says it best, however: “The program has been a true blessing. God helped to provide a great solution to a problem I previously found hard to manage.”

Tom Vaughn is the manager of enrollment and marketing at PACE GNO.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

“When I first met Patricia, she was frustrated and overwhelmed with Mr. Davidson and the daily care routine,” Ventura says. “They were constantly arguing and he resisted her attempts to assist him with his daily self-care. She did not know where to turn.”

Trisha Ventura (l), an occupational therapist, helped Particia Davidson learn how to better communicate with her elderly father.

Photo by Michiel Birkhoff.

13

As Leaves Turn to Gold, the Cradle Will Rock

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

on the Blue Ridge Parkway

14

The real gems of rural Appalachia lie in its rustic charm.

Boomers will discover spectacular views around every turn while driving the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina in September and October. Sunlit trees glow like yellow, orange, and red lanterns, and views over mountain ranges confound the eye with brilliant colors interwoven with morning mists and lingering sunsets.

But don’t miss the forest for the trees. The area sits within 6,500 acres of land, much of which was donated by the Vanderbilt family for conservation in the late 19th century. Camping and nostalgia-laden motels vie with luxurious accommodations for the attention of visitors, and many New Orleanians have cherished vacation homes in upscale towns and villages like Highlands and Cashiers (“Cash’-ers,” to those in the know).

If You Vanderbilt This, They Will Come Folks in the Carolinas treat the National Park Service’s “Cradle of Forestry in America” center near the college town of Brevard as if it were their own birthplace. Dating from 1898, the rambling expanse of forested land chronicles the development of conservation techniques under the strict guidance of Dr. Carl Schenck — a no-nonsense conservationist and educator.

Schenck developed the concept of forestry in his native Germany before George Vanderbilt brought him to North Carolina to teach young men of good character how to preserve the area’s natural resources.

The heart of the center is in a rustic village in Pisgah National Forest. There, eager students of the past attended lectures by Schenck and lived a self-sustaining existence in the wilderness.

Rangers, volunteers, and visitors return year after year to walk the same paths Schenck, Vanderbilt, and their students followed.

This summer, Milton Bullock, 77, a Vietnam War veteran and former chief of the Dade County, Florida fire department, returned on the center’s Pollination Day, celebrating the 70th anniversary of his first visit at age 7.

“I’m not sure what I learned way back when, but it’s kept me coming back ever since,” he confided.

Fill’er-up, Gas Tank and Stomach

Cashier and receptionist Mary Toledo was born in Cuba, but arrived in Florida with her family at age 2. Now a Connecticut Yankee, she looks forward each year to her gig at the North Carolina center.

Unleaded, Regular, or Diesel are the options offered by the filling station that houses Caffe Rel in the town of Franklin, but inside this seemingly-out-of-place French bistro, diners can choose a plate of crawfish and snails, brandied chicken livers, pasta carbonara, or a burger.

After teaching lower and middle school and serving as a wilderness instructor in Alabama, Clay Wooldridge, 38, assumed the title of cradle manager two years ago.

Youthful and enthusiastic Education Manager Stephanie Bradley spoke with excitement about upcoming autumn events at a booth set up at the center’s Pollination Day event in June.

“Here, take one of these little wooden houses back to your garden in New Orleans and give a solitary bee a home to thrive in,” Bradley said, handing me a small wooden box, open at one end and filled with natural items to attract errant bees and give them shelter.

Encouraged to name her complimentary cozy bee enclosure, one visitor came up with the winning title of the day, “Air Bee & Bee.”

On October 5, Forest Festival Day — where young women often out-chop men in a tree-trunk-splitting completion — is complemented by the Appalachian Folkways Series. The series displays the wares of local craftsmen and farmers, and visitors are welcome to sit on the porches of the commissary and other buildings in Schenck’s village.

On October 13, the Acorn Patrol will recreate camping as it would have been in Schenck’s time. The conservationist established the event in 1903 to build the public’s interests in the principles of responsible forestry that he was promoting.

On October 18 and 19, Cradle Manager Clay Wooldridge will join Bradley and others to revisit “The Legend of Tommy Hodges,” weaving fact and legend into an oral history of the area.

On our recent visit, Marina Tkash, who hails from Russia’s Ural Mountains, whetted our appetites with the house’s complimentary tomato-bruschetta special, French bread on a plate of tomatoes seasoned with olive oil, garlic, capers, opal basil, and lemon zest. Stalwart Mei Dong, who speaks proudly of her recently-acquired American citizenship, rushed briskly from kitchen to table in the small space, making sure everyone had enough to eat.

Opened in 2003 by Richard E. Long (REL), who studied under Russian and Swiss chefs and in The Greenbrier resort’s apprentice chef program, Caffe Rel is filled with both French and American memorabilia — a melange of which Julia Child would surely approve. New creations supplement the extensive menu, which should be capped with at least one towering slice of homemade Italian Wedding Cake.

Highways and Byways Back on the parkway, Pisgah Inn, which opened in 1918, sits near the highest point in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Updated cabins feature porches with spectacular views, and the glass-fronted restaurant offers three square meals a day in heaping North Carolina style.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

“And come back in the fall for a celebration of mountain heritage,” Bradley added.

Locals still lament that you can’t order a root beer float in this former home of an A&W Rootbeer outlet, but high-end French/ American cuisine at bargain-basement prices keeps this odd oasis so busy that lines often form before the no-reservations, cash-or-check-only destination opens for lunch or dinner, Wednesday through Saturday. It is a well-kept secret that everyone loves to talk about.

15

In Highlands and Cashiers, both a fair piece from the parkway, posh restaurants and accommodations abound. Locals fret that Old Edwards Inn, with its genteel, yet homestyle, Madison’s restaurant, could someday own just about everything in Highlands.

Nearby Cashiers, with a resident population of less than 200, has voted to remain unincorporated — ‘cuz that’s just how things are done in this chic venue. In 1875, a pair of Kansas developers had taken a map and drawn a line from New York to New Orleans and another from Chicago to Savannah. Where the lines intersected, they thought, the spot would become a great center of commerce, but the most profitable venture turned out to be High Hampton inn, a familyoriented resort that is closed for extensive renovation. It will reopen in a year or so as a decidedly upscale establishment.

But fear not: Just down the road in Lonesome Valley, a chef from West Monroe, Louisiana, Ken Naron, is turning heads at a sophisticated restaurant in a lofty barn-like structure. Canyon Kitchen sits in an idyllic setting with kitchen gardens that provide many menu items.

The surroundings may not boast the luminous hues of autumn leaves, but what is on your plate can be equally dramatic.

So don’t think of North Carolina as just boiled peanuts and winding mountain roads. Autumn in the state is a visual, historical, and culinary treat that should not be missed.

Keith Marshall began his writing career in 1973 as The Times-Picayune’s representative in Europe. He has also written travel, art and architecture, and feature articles for major newspapers and magazines.

If you go: Blueridgeparkway.org has information on road conditions and amenities. In September and October, it posts daily updates about the status of changing leaves.

Cradleofforestry.com has information on events. A lifetime senior national park service pass costs $80 and offers free or half-price entry to most properties, including The Cradle of Forestry, for up to four people in the same car.

Caffe Rel, 459 E. Main St., Franklin, NC 28734, 828.369.9446 Pisgah Inn, 408 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Canton, NC 28716, 828.235.8228 Old Edwards Inn, 445 Main St., Highlands, NC 28741, 866.536.8008 Canyon Kitchen, 150 Lonesome Valley Rd., Sapphire, NC 28774, 828.743.7967

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

Boomers aren't just hanging around waiting for something to do.

16

So advertise with us, and catch up to them.

info@nolaboomers.com 504.866.0555

magazine

AGING IN NOLA

CANE EMPOWERMENT

Perhaps seen as a sign of fragility, an exercise and self defense class seeks to transform the walking cane into a conduit for strength.

There’s nothing wrong with needing a cane to get around. In fact, two local experts on the human body and aging say that the cane can be used for so much more than just offering support while walking. Their new exercise and self defense class aims to train New Orleans cane users on the various ways their staff can be used as exercise equipment, a safety device, and a self defense tool.

Then, almost 15 years ago, Dimitri Papadopoulos, a martial arts teacher and an instructor of biology at Delgado Community College, walked into one of Dancisak’s classes at Tulane. Soon after, Dancisak shared with Papadopoulos that he’d been thinking of a way to share his cane knowledge with those who needed it most — cane users.

After years of developing specific exercises and multiple uses for the cane, the two men debuted their first exercise and self defense class this past May.

Dancisak and Papadopoulos demonstrate a self defense maneuver.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

Dr. Michael Dancisak, director of the Center for Anatomical and Movement Science at Tulane University, grew up around canes. His father, who suffered from multiple sclerosis, was reluctant to use his cane at first. Then something happened. His father realized that the cane is a very versatile tool — much more than just a stick to lean on. That philosophy stuck with Dancisak.

17

Good posture is the key to cane exercise.

“The purpose of this program is to change the concept of the cane to one of empowerment,” Papadopoulos says.

“We want the aging population to see the cane not as a crutch, but rather as a powerful tool, and as such, something that can improve their wellbeing.” are exercises that can help improve the individual’s technique in doing so.”

Swiss Army Cane

The final technique demonstrates how the cane can be used as a self defense

The program focuses on four different techniques that each teach a different facet of the various cane uses. First, participants learn how to properly walk with a cane.

“This is something that may seem simple enough at first glance, but when you actually attempt to walk with a cane, you realize that it may not be so obvious,” Papadopoulos says.

tool — using the crook of the cane to grab, pull, or swing — to boost self awareness and self confidence with cane walkers.

Walk in Style Dr. Michael Dancisak helps a participant determine if her cane is at the right height.

This includes how to measure for the right cane size: The top of cane, or the crook, should reach where a wrist watch would rest if the arm is hanging straight down. If the cane is too tall, you’ll end up using more arm strength to hold yourself up, says Dancisak.

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

The second teaches 30 different cane exercises, which can be performed from a sitting or standing position, and help to strengthen the core muscles.

18

The third covers cane safety — using the cane as a buffer for moving objects. During the class, Dancisak and Papadopoulos rolls a soccer ball towards the participants, showing them how to properly hold or maneuver their canes in order to stop or deflect the ball.

Participants ready themselves to learn how to properly walk with a cane.

“A good example of this would be a scenario where some kids are playing ball close by, and the ball rolls out of play toward the individual who is holding the cane,” Papadopoulos says.

The individual now can use the cane to deflect the path of the ball, and there

Their second class, held in July at the Kinship Senior Center, Uptown, hosted around 15 participants. However, not all of them were convinced that a cane is in their future.

“One reason I don’t want a cane is that it reminds me of what’s next,” one participant said.

Both Dancisak and Papadopoulos — who use cane in their daily lives with exercising and even massaging — went on the defense. Their goal isn’t only to make the cane a kind of extension of the person, but also an extension of the personality. Just as eyeglasses are medical devices, but come in different shapes and colors, canes can be just as reflective.

“There’s a stigma around canes, but it’s been around for hundreds of years,” Dancisak said. “We’re going to make the cane popular again. Look for a style that fits your personality, that expresses who you are.”

Tim Meyer is Nola Boomer’s managing editor.

WHEN YOUR WEEKEND INCLUDES THE

red dress run

YOU'RE LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE magazine SHARE US WITH YOUR FRIENDS, FOLLOW US ON

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

19

Aging in P lace:

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

BRINGING HELP TO YOUR HOME

20

Not aging isn’t an option, but one Northshore retirement community is about to offer more options for more comfortable aging.

As industry analysts have been predicting for years, what if our healthcare system really is about to be inundated and overwhelmed by Baby Boomers? According to Senior Living, between now and 2030, 10,000 Boomers are turning 65 each day. With this magnitude of new seniors entering the system, what happens to the existing seniors already in the system?

Can our current infrastructure handle the load? Do we have enough retirement communities to house the approaching masses? And what happens when these Boomers become ill or can no longer take care of themselves?

Do we have enough hospitals, skilled nursing, assisted

living, or memory care facilities to accommodate them?

These are all questions healthcare organizations, Boomers, senior citizens, and the adult children of aging parents should be asking themselves.

It’s a fact that seniors today are more active and living longer healthier lives, but according to San Francisco-based On Lok, a family of nonprofit organizations for seniors and their families, getting older today looks very different than it did 15 or 30 years ago. Many seniors are choosing to age in their homes and communities, but what happens when they can no longer safely remain at home?

UNCERTAINTIES AND OPTIONS Are there solutions out there? The answer is yes and no. Yes, contingent on how dependent or independent a senior may be, their activity level, or their cognizance.

There are existing types of traditional facilities as mentioned above to cater to their needs, but are there

enough of them? If predictions are right, the answer is probably no.

What about those seniors who don’t require assisted living or skilled nursing and simply wish to age in place surrounded by the things and people they love? According to AARP, nearly 90 percent of homeowners approaching retirement want to stay in their home as they age. Many of those seniors are independent in their activities of daily

but who would like someone to assist them with things like scheduling of appointments, planning social outings, light household chores, and home organization.

A STEP FURTHER Though the above-mentioned services are not new concepts and have been available for quite some time, At Your Service by Christwood is taking this one step further. Up to 9,000 people each day will potentially need assistance maintaining their home at one time or another. To address these needs, At “MANY SENIORS ARE CHOOSING TO Your Service will also offer general home maintenance such as gutter cleaning, presAGE IN THEIR HOMES AND COMMUNITIES, sure washing, changing of A/C filters, light BUT WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THEY CAN bulbs, and smoke detector batteries. Additionally, licensed electricians, plumbers, NO LONGER SAFELY REMAIN AT HOME?” HVAC maintenance, carpenters, and computer technology services will be available.

living, but might not be independent enough to care for or maintain their household long-term. And what about those who might like to move into a retirement community, but who can’t afford costs? Finding alternative solutions can be difficult.

One option might be small adult residential care communities, which are popping up all over the country. These Level 1-licensed residential structures house two to eight senior residents with each having their own bedroom and bathroom and require no entrance fees. Level 2 providers can house up to 16 residents. There are no entrance fees and reasonable monthly rates cover all room and board, which makes this one a desirable option.

Starting in November, At Your Service by Christwood will start by serving St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, and Washington Parishes. Their services will include caring companion care for those who desire or need assistance with their activities of daily living, accessible transportation, help with preparing meals, light cleaning, personal laundry, and more.

Additionally, this new division will also offer personal assistants for those who are more active and independent,

REMAINING AT HOME And lastly, according to research by the Elder Care Alliance, social support can play a significant role in overall health as people age. Socialization with others can boost quality of life, including both physical and mental health.

In fact, many seniors who choose to remain at home are being cared for by their adult children or other family members. Many of these caregivers are also responsible for taking care of their own families. This can sometimes be an overwhelming task, and from time to time, they may need a break to manage their own households.

At Your Service is addressing this with several lifestyle and social wellness services. The first being an adult day stay program offering engaging daily activities to encourage and enhance a senior’s personal and spiritual wellness. Furthermore, we are inviting seniors to attend Christwood sponsored social events and travel opportunities and can provide transportation to and from the campus if needed.

Many services currently exist in our community, but much more is needed if we are going to successfully care for the health and wellness of our rapidly growing senior community. ■ To learn more about At Your Service, call 985.292.1221.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

AT YOUR SERVICE Some senior care organizations have smartly identified seniors who wish to remain in their homes as one of the most underserved segments in the entire senior care market. One such organization is the Christwood Retirement Community on the Northshore. In November, it will launch a new division called At Your Service by Christwood catering specifically to this segment, providing an array of in-home and on-campus services for non-Christwood residents, designed to help seniors who wish to remain in their own homes for as long as possible.

But can seniors feel safe having unknown strangers in their home? Some organizations have tried this business model by relying on contractors, who were in most cases not reasonably vetted, unreliable, and expensive. But At Your Service will employ every service provider as a Christwood employee, fully vetted through drug testing and background checks, assuring that seniors can trust the people serving them.

21

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

Taking the Stigma out of CBD

22

Cannabidiol is not the same as cannabis, but it could provide some of the same benefits, but without the high.

the high that other marijuana-related chemicals cause. There are claims that it can help smokers stop their filthy habit and that it may reduce anxiety-related behaviors in patients with PTSD, OCD, and social anxiety disorders.

Say “CBD” to a New Orleanian and you’ll probably conjure up visions of the 200-year-old central business district �— home of the Superdome and the Saenger.

CBD products are primarily marketed and sold as supplements, not medication, and it has been labeled a “snake oil” product. There are claims that CBD may reduce acne, benefit heart health, and have neuroprotective properties to aid victims of Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s. Nola Boomers’ cover story Dave Malone uses CBD to fall asleep.

But CBD has another meaning — one that NOLA’s boomers are becoming more familiar with: cannabidiol, a cannabinoid.

According to the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health, “Cannabinoids are chemicals in cannabis that cause drug-like effects throughout the body, including the central nervous system and the immune system.”

However, cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound, not to be confused with another cannabinoid, THC, the chemical responsible for most of marijuana’s psychological effects. CBD is thought to aid in pain relief and inflammation reduction without

However, one medical journal stated that “clinical data do not support the popular uses of CBD for Parkinson disease, schizophrenia, cancer palliation and treatment, chronic pain and spasticity, depression, anxiety disorder, insomnia, and inflammation.”

But that doesn’t stop sellers from praising it as a magic elixir. One online CBD shop advertises that CBD has “been known to support

healthy blood sugar levels, promote healthy energy levels, relieve anxiety, aid in digestion, support optimal immune function and regeneration of healthy cells, promote a sense of serenity, and overall well-being.”

Your Friendly NOLA Neighborhood Shop It is those properties that are drawing users of all ages, particularly seniors, to the CBD market. Crystal Nugent owns three locations of Your CBD Store in the New Orleans area, and some of her customers are referred by their physicians.

“The customers we are seeing are that of older generation with issues with pain, arthritis, and anxiety,” Nugent says.

“Last December, I had total knee replacement surgery and was not allowed to use ibuprofen to reduce swelling for three or four weeks,” says Bob, another New Orleans Baby Boomer. “I found that CBD oil was helpful, but not nearly as effective as ibuprofen.”

“I tried it out of curiosity,” says Laura, another local Boomer.

“Helped me sleep; didn’t notice any pain relief, but I took it orally.

I did feel very relaxed very quickly. I also used about a quarter of what they recommended.”

“With orals like capsules or gummies, the ability to dial up or down is severely restricted, and topicals like creams won’t generally have a systemic effect so the use is limited to topical conditions,” Dr. Chou recommends CBD in oil form.

“They demand relief, and they are willing to try anything.”

According to Dr. Victor Chou, a nationally-recognized authority on medical marijuana and owner of the Medical Marijuana Clinic of Louisiana, “CBD most certainly could benefit the elderly. One of the issues we have with patients is polypharmacy, where people take more and more medications for medical conditions as they age. These medications have the potential to interact with each other. With CBD, you could potentially see relief with multiple symptoms, such as pain, anxiety, and insomnia, which would eliminate the need to take three separate medications for each condition.”

Right to Relief in Louisiana Some people may be squeamish about taking something made from the same plant as marijuana, either for legal or medical reasons.

According to an article from Harvard Health, “All 50 states have laws legalizing CBD with varying degrees of restriction, and while the federal government still considers CBD in the same class as marijuana, it doesn’t habitually enforce against it.”

While some ads for CBD-based products include CBD-infused honey, topical cream, oils, salves, and tonics, oils top Carter’s customers’ lists, mainly because of price point and the ability to find a precise dose. For those who don’t want to take CBD internally, the topical oils “work quick and on the spot for pain.”

“Hemp-derived products have been transferred from the jurisdiction of the DEA to the USDA and is not considered in the same class as marijuana any more,” notes Erin Glover Mahan of Louisiana CBD. “It is not considered a Schedule 1 ‘drug’ any longer.”

Judy, a local Baby Boomers, started taking CBD oil about a year ago due to osteoarthritis pain and sciatica. She uses about half a teaspoon of a CBD oil called Medical Miracles and rubs it into the affected area for two or three hours of pain relief, but she says she’s open to other forms.

There is no mandatory testing of CBD products, and WebMD. com cautions that “nearly 7 of 10 CBD products didn’t contain the amount of extract promised on the label.”

“I’d like to try oral drops when available at pharmacies here in New Orleans,” Judy says. “Can’t wait to see all the good I believe it will do.”

Nugent’s customers like a combination, using it internally and then adding “a relief topical for the spot pain they might be dealing with.”

Not everyone feels the same level of relief.

While there is no requirement for third-party testing, Mahan recommends consumers look for the U.S. Hemp Authority certification and third-party testing information. WebMD suggests CBD users consult a healthcare provider who understands its use.

Valerie Andrews is a writer and communication strategist. She has been published in the Journal for Minority Medical Students, the Nursing and Allied Health Journal, and Ascension Parish magazine.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

“They demand relief, and they are willing to try anything. Once they get relief, they are so amazingly grateful and loyal,” Carter says.

In Louisiana, the 2019 legislative session saw the approval of laws that provide for the legal sale of CBD products. The Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control and the Louisiana Department of Health now oversee the permits for sales of CBD products. Those sellers can’t sell edibles or beverages not approved by the FDA, or any smokable or vapable products.

Products must include scannable QR codes with links to online information concerning the product’s THC content and other information.

Heather Carter of Mountain Pure CBD in Baton Rouge, whose biggest customer segment is the over-50 crowd, says her clientele is drawn to CBD because they’re being prescribed so many medications and feel they’re not working or have unpleasant side effects.

23

24

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

MEN

OPAUSE

THE TRUTH ABOUT MALE

MENOPAUSE

Andropause is the menopause equivalent for men, but men beware; fatigue is just the tip of the iceberg While all older women go through a defined time in their lives known as menopause — the abrupt drop-off of reproductive hormones signifying the end of their period and fertility — men face a more gradual reduction in sexual hormones as they age. After about the age of 55, there is a slow decline in natural testosterone in a man’s body, according to Dr. Omer A. Raheem, director of the Men’s Health Center at Tulane Urology and assistant professor at the Tulane University Department of Urology.

work done early in the morning. Testosterone levels are considered low when levels fall below 300 nanograms per deciliter, but only having low testosterone, often called low-T, doesn’t mean a man is experiencing andropause, Raheem says.

The term for the collection of symptoms caused by this decline in a man’s testosterone levels is called andropause. While it may not be considered a well-defined stage like the menopause all women endure, symptoms of andropause, or what has been dubbed “male menopause,” may be life-changing enough for a man to make an appointment with his physician — or have his wife do it for him.

Andropause Treatment An easy first step in trying to eliminate these uncomfortable symptoms without medication is physical activity. Raheem recommends exercising 20 minutes, five days a week. Cardio exercise that raises your heart level, like swimming or even walking the dog, can improve a man’s physical performance and ease symptoms.

While many men experience some of these symptoms, male menopause just isn’t discussed as often as female menopause.

Raheem likens the secrecy of male menopause to men’s health in general. Men just aren’t as likely to talk to other male friends, or even their wives, about health concerns.

“They don’t want to share their inner problems,” he says. “They don’t want to open up to their partners or wives or even their doctors.”

Men often have the “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it” mentality, and they typically won’t admit to health problems until they become too big to ignore. Women are more likely to be vocal and seek medical advice early.

Raheem urges men to consult their physician or a specialist if they are experiencing these symptoms to have their testosterone levels checked. To check testosterone levels, a patient should have blood

If you’re exercising plenty and are still having symptoms, there is medication that physicians can prescribe that produces and stimulates the production of testosterone. Some of the medicines Raheem describes include testosterone replacement therapy in the form of creams or gels; other forms come as injectables or testosterone pellets implanted under the skin. Inhibitors like anastrozole increase testosterone production while reducing the production of estrogen, according to Raheem.

It is important to note that these medications, which should be prescribed by a men’s health specialist, do have side effects. These side effects include increased blood levels, increased fluid in the body, and more serious risks of stroke and heart attack.

Raheem urges men to pay attention to their physical health and get enough exercise as they age.

Kate Stevens is a freelance writer and frequent contributor to our sister publication, Nola Family.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

Pay Attention to Symptoms Symptoms of andropause include weight gain, lack of motivation or energy, a reduced sex drive or libido, and erectile disfunction. The drop in testosterone also has implications on heart and bone health in men.

“What we look for is a combination of symptoms and signs,” he says. If symptoms are present and numbers are low, “You, in my book, qualify for treatment.”

25

E XC E L @ BOOST YOUR C O M PU TER SK IL LS W IT H T E CH C L ASSES IN N O L A Technology has changed almost everything we do, yet about one-third of Americans 65 and older don’t even use the internet, according to a 2017 Pew Research Center study. Even among those who do use it, only one-third say they aren’t confident enough to perform tasks online.

“Tech makes our lives easier and more convenient, and that goes for any age,” says Beau Ellerbee, vision rehab instructor at Lighthouse Louisiana, which offers a tech course for the visually impaired. “The ultimate goal is to help our clients live more independently.”

Whether you’re afraid you’d break the computer or even if your eyesight is failing, New Orleans offers a bunch of tech education programs — a lot of them are free — for any uneasy tech user at any skill level.

“Most of the [high schoolers] have a grandparent who can’t send a photo on their iPhone, so they understand,” says Ashley Bond, founder of Cyber Seniors at Trinity Episcopal Church where high school volunteers help parishioners navigate their smartphones.

These programs aren’t only for the smartphone-challenged, classes also cover internet job searching, filling out online school/work applications, career-related skills, social media, and more.

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

Note: Schedules are subject to change. Check with the location to confirm.

26

Technology for Beginners

Microsoft Word 2016 Basics

Job Search Series: Job Search Basics

kinshipnola.org Classes for seniors beginning to learn how to use laptops, smart phones, and tablets, as well as courses for all levels of experience on how to stay safe online. The technology center is open for classes and by appointment during regular facility hours.

Jefferson Parish Library, jplibrary.net Using Microsoft Word, learn basic word processing skills such as setting margins, formatting text, saving your work, and printing your work. Registration required.

Jefferson Parish Library, jplibrary.net Join the class for an overview of the library’s Job Search Seminar Series and learn tips and techniques for job searching in the digital world at this first seminar. Registration required, but a library card is not.

Kinship Senior Center 921 S. Carrollton Ave., New Orleans 504.314.0300 Monday–Friday, 9:30 am–2:30 pm

East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie 504.838.1144 / 504.838.1111 Tuesday, September 3, 10 am–noon.

East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie 504.838.1144 / 504.838.1111 Friday, September 6, 10 am–noon.

@ T EC H DIRECTORY

Job Search Series: The Art of the Cover Letter

Job Search Series: The Networked Career

Jefferson Parish Library, jplibrary.net This class will focus on resumes and the various types and formats, and will equip you with tips and tools to help you make a sparkling first impression.

Jefferson Parish Library, jplibrary.net The class will cover tailoring a cover letter for specific audiences, as well as formatting and avoiding grammar mistakes.

Jefferson Parish Library, jplibrary.net Networking in both the physical world and the digital remains an essential tool for finding employment. This training centers on networking opportunities and using them in your search.

East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie 504.838.1144 / 504.838.1111 Friday, September 13, 10 am–noon.

East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie 504.838.1144 / 504.838.1111 Friday, September 13, 2–4 pm.

East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie 504.838.1144 / 504.838.1111 Friday, September 20, 10 am–noon.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

Job Search Series: Crafting Yo ur Resume

27

Job Search Series: Resume Follow-up Workshop Jefferson Parish Library, jplibrary.net Reserved for attendants of Crafting Your Resume class. Use what you learned in Crafting Your Resume to produce a new resume and then bring that resume to the library for group feedback.

East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie 504.838.1144 / 504.838.1111 Friday, September 20, 2–4 pm.

Introduction to QuickBooks Jefferson Parish Library, jplibrary.net This training gives an overview of QuickBooks, and will cover types of companies, setting up a new company in QuickBooks, creating a chart of accounts, creating customers and vendors, and other functions.

East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie 504.838.1144 / 504.838.1111 Friday, September 27, 10 am–noon.

BYOD: Apples & Androids

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

Jefferson Parish Library, jplibrary.net Bring your own smart device (BYOD) and questions to this informal class where technology trainers will provide hands-on assistance with your Apple or Android devices.

28

East Bank Regional Library 4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie 504.838.1144 / 504.838.1111 Friday, September 27, 2–4 pm.

Computer Class for Adults New Orleans Public Library, nolalibrary.org Designed for those who are just beginning to learn about technology or who would like to grow their digital skills and utilize the many digital resources the library offers.

Main Library 219 Loyola Ave., New Orleans 504.596.2560 Thursdays, 10–11:30 am.

One-on-One Computer Tutoring New Orleans Public Library, nolalibrary.org Designed for adults who are just beginning to learn about technology or who would like to grow their digital skills and utilize the many digital resources the library offers.

Reservations required. To make a reservation, call the library branch you would like to visit.

Algiers Regional Library 3014 Holiday Dr., New Orleans 504.596.2641 Every Tuesday during library hours.

Alvar Library 913 Alvar St., New Orleans 504.596.2667 Every Thursday during library hours.

Central City Library 2405 Jackson Ave., Building C, Room 235 504.596.3110 Monday–Friday during library hours.

Cita Dennis Hubbell Library 725 Pelican Ave., New Orleans 504.596.3113 Monday–Saturday during library hours.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library 1611 Caffin Ave., New Orleans 504.596.2695 Monday–Saturday during library hours.

Mid-City Library 4140 Canal St., New Orleans 504.596.2654 Monday–Saturday during library hours.

Nix Library 1401 S. Carrollton Ave., New Orleans 504.596.2630 Monday–Thursday during library hours.

Nora Navra Library 1902 St. Bernard Ave., New Orleans 504.596.3118 Monday–Saturday during library hours.

Norman Mayer Library 3001 Gentilly Blvd., New Orleans 504.596.3100 Mondays and Tuesdays during library hours.

Robert E. Smith Library 6301 Canal Blvd., New Orleans 504.596.2638 Tuesday–Thursday during library hours.

Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center 4300 S. Broad Ave., New Orleans 504.596.2660 Mondays and Tuesdays during library hours.

Cyber Seniors trinitynola.com/church-new/ youth-ministries

High school students at Trinity Episcopal School volunteer to assist Trinity Episcopal Church parishioners with technology issues, concerns, and questions in the school library.

Trinity Episcopal School 1315 Jackson Ave., New Orleans 504.522.0276 ( Trinity Episcopal Church) Every third Sunday after 10:30 am service.

Computer Class New Orleans Public Library, nolalibrary.org Designed for those who are just beginning to learn about technology or who would like to grow their digital skills and utilize the many digital resources the library offers.

Reservations required.

Nora Navra Library 1902 St. Bernard Ave., New Orleans 504.596.3118 Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9–10 am.

E-Resources Happy Hour New Orleans Public Library, nolalibrary.org Learn about electronic resources, including e-books and audiobooks, available through the library. Bring your laptop, smartphone, tablet, or e-reader for individual assistance.

Milton H. Latter Memorial Library 5120 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans 504.596.2625 Every Sunday, 1–2 pm.

Robert E. Smith Library 6301 Canal Blvd., New Orleans 504.596.2638 Every Wednesday, 10–11 am.

Lighthouse Senior Tech

YES Community Education

wrbh.org/resources/for-seniors Apply to enhance independence through a free, one-on-one, 16-week course designed for individuals, 55 and older, with 20/70 vision in the best corrected eye. An assessment will establish what the participant already knows and what they’d like to learn.

Classes are ongoing once accepted.

Referral from an eye doctor is required.

New Orleans Public Library, nolalibrary.org Designed for beginner to intermediate skill levels to learn how to set up emails, print documents, search the internet, create resumes, or fill out job and school applications. Enrollment required. To enroll, call 504.596.3842.

Lighthouse Louisiana 123 State St., New Orleans 504.899.4501 Ongoing, flexible schedule, two hours/week.

Free typing classes are also available to students of all ages, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 am–10:30 am.

Main Library 219 Loyola Ave., New Orleans 504.596.2560 Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10 am–4 pm.

YES Adult Education New Orleans Public Library, nolalibrary.org Enrolled students receive individualized teaching focused on academic skills, workforce development, and technological knowledge. Enrollment is required.

To enroll, call 504.596.3842.

Main Library 219 Loyola Ave., New Orleans 504.596.2560 Monday–Thursday, 10 am–6 pm.

Algiers Regional Library 3014 Holiday Dr., New Orleans 504.596.2641 Mondays and Thursdays, 10 am–3 pm.

Our Grandparent Issue!

Nov/Dec 2019

To advertise call 504.866.0555 or email info@nolaboomers.com

Longevity Booster - living longer, better.

Play on! Adult sports leagues and clubs.

Happy Hours - celebrations and gatherings!

Picking the right Memory Care Facility, plus listings.

Staying connected with your grandkids, near and far.

What to expect when they’re expecting - your first grandchild!

Home for the Holidays - identifying when your parents need help.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

In this issue:

29

s a o e R ns

Why Learning Piano Should be Music to Your Ears!

The old adage “it’s never too late” is true for a lot of things, but what about the old myth that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? It certainly sounds like it’s too late for that dog.

Popular wisdom says that the older a person gets, the harder it is to learn abstract concepts like another language or music. The pliable minds of children are just natural learning sponges, right?

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

What about adults learning music?

Lance Lafargue, owner of Lafargue Pianos in Metairie, shares his reasons why learning to play the piano is good for adults.

30

“We’ve been through Katrina and seen an awful lot,” Lafargue says, who is also a veteran in piano maintenance and restoration. “I did over 200 estimates for damaged pianos around southeast Louisiana. I quickly learned how important music was to people.

What an impact it had on people’s lives. Music can be the key to a rich, interesting, and peaceful life around the house.”

Knowing When You Got It Good Usually it’s the parents that sign their kids up for piano lessons, but are you really going to fully enjoy, participate, or even appreciate learning something new when someone else has made that decision for you? Parents end up with a sulking child sitting at the piano like an angry toddler. It’s a chore to them. But adults can better appreciate the value of piano lessons.

Mental State Playing the piano will keep your mind healthy. As people get older, the chances of developing diseases like Alzheimer’s increases, but having a regular pastime, even a relatively new skill like learning the piano, can be therapeutic.

“The science backs us up. Piano is by far the best musical instrument to stimulate the brain,” Lafargue says.

“It’s great for getting your brain working in areas that nothing else

will. Alzheimer patients that are despondent suddenly come alive when music is played. They are learning more and more about the benefits and why.”

Playing the piano can also help you recover from a traumatic experience.

“One military veteran told us that she had PTSD and had been through years of counseling, drugs, and therapy, but to her amazement, the only thing she could attribute to her finally sleeping through the night was starting piano classes,” Lafargue says about a recent client.

An Older Brain is Still a Brain Unless you aspire to be a piano virtuoso, which you’d probably have to start training at an early age anyway, you don’t have to worry about your brains turning to mush through-

out adulthood. In fact, listening and learning to play music is good for the brain. A 2015 Stanford study showed that music engages areas of the brain that are involved with paying attention, making predictions, and updating events in our memory.

Plays Well with Others Having trouble with a co-worker? A recent Harris Poll concluded that 7 in 10 Americans say that the habits formed from learning music has equip them to be better team players in their careers. The same poll also said that 66 percent of Americans believe that music education prepares someone to manage the tasks of their job more successfully.

Cardio for Your Joints Even if you can’t handle a full cardio workout, your fingers just might.

Playing the piano is low impact exercise for joints. Any kind of movement is beneficial and one of the most proven benefits to learning to play the piano is the positive effects it has on hand strength and dexterity of the fingers. The movements involved with

playing the piano keeps the muscles developed and decreases the weakening of the small bones in your hands.

Say What?

Learning to play the piano can increase neural pathways that lead to the speech and language centers of the brain, helping you become better at incorporating language patterns into words. They also seem to have an easier time discerning words over noisy areas leading to better hearing in the future.

Getting a Backbone One of the first key points taught to the beginner piano player is how to sit with proper posture. Keeping the spine straight and shoulders back, good posture is beneficial to health, preventing neck pain, damage to the nerves of the lower back, and general spinal health.

It’s Fun Children often see learning music as a chore, but adults really see the value and can enjoy the process as well as the result. Plus, it’s really cool to sit

down in front of friends and impress them with your skills.

“Music is fun. This is one of those bucket-list, no-reason-not-to-it kind of things,” Lafargue says. “Music touches something deep down inside of each of us like nothing else will. Many adults think they can’t learn, don’t have the ability, or need special talent. We are here and preach every single day — you can play — and it’s a wonderful, fun thing to spend time doing.”

Honesty And finally, just admit it, you’ve always wanted to be able to play.

Lance Lafargue is owner of Lafargue Pianos in Metairie and a verertan in piano maintenance and restoration.

Musical Moments at Lafargue Pianos

1828 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie (504) 831-3008 www.lafarguepianos.com

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

Stress-free and fun group piano lessons for adults. Learn to play by chords, read music, and even create your own music.

No experience re uired!

Enrollment for new classes is now open.

Sign up today!

31

s e i b e e r F PENING P A H S P E E K UFF THAT AND COOL ST

Museums and Exhibits

Tuesday Museum Highlights Tour New Orleans Museum of Art. NOMA docents guide visitors on hour-long tours of either the permanent collection or special exhibitions. Tours are free with NOMA admission. Meet in the Great Hall to join in. Every Tuesday–Sunday from 1–2 pm.

Free Wednesdays New Orleans Botanical Garden. Free admission for Louisiana residents, courtesy of the Helis Foundation. 10 am–5 pm.

Free Wednesdays New Orleans Museum of Art. Free admission for Louisiana residents, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. 10 am–6 pm.

Free Thursdays Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Free admission for Louisiana residents, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. 10 am–5 pm.

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

Thursdays at Twilight Garden Concert Series

32

Pavillion of Two Sisters at the New Orleans Botanical Garden.

This weekly series showcases some of the finest musicians in New Orleans featuring traditional jazz, rhythm and blues, and an assortment of music styles. Mint juleps, wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and food are available for purchase. $10/person. 6–8 pm.

Ogden After Hours Ogden Museum of Southern Art. The weekly entertainment series is held every Thursday night. For more information, call 504.539.9650. 6–8 pm.

Free Sundays Contemporary Arts Center. Free admission to all Louisiana residents, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. 11 am–5 pm.

Museum Partner Pass New Orleans Public Library. The Library has partnered with the Audubon Nature Institute, The National World War II Museum, New Orleans Museum of Art, Southern Food & Beverage Museum, The Ogden Museum of Southern Art, and Longue Vue House & Gardens to provide free admission for library cardholders who

check out a Museum Partner Pass. Every library location has a pass for each of the participating museums. For more information, visit nolalibrary.org.

Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum Above Arnaud’s Restaurant, shows off the elaborate gowns, masks, and other memorabilia. Open evenings, 6–10 pm, and Sundays, 10 am–2:30 pm.

Newcomb Art Museum Woldenberg Art Center, Tulane University. Free and open to the public. Open Tuesday–Friday, 10 am–5 pm, and Saturday, 11 am–4 pm.

New Orleans Jazz Museum Old U.S. Mint. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10 am–4:30 pm, $6 for senior citizens, 20 percent off with purchase of tickets for two or more museums.

Learning & Resources YES Adult Education Main Library. Enrolled students receive individualized teaching focused on academic skills, workforce development, and technological knowledge. Enrollment is required. Call 504.596.3842 or email yes@ymcaneworleans.org to enroll. Mondays–Thursdays from 10 am–6 pm.

Computer Class Nora Navra Library. Designed for those who are just beginning to learn about technology or who would like to grow their digital skills and utilize the many digital resources the library offers. Reservations required by calling 504.596.3118. Tuesdays & Thursdays from 9-10 am.

E-Resources Happy Hour Smith Library, Wednesdays, 10–11 am, and Latter Library, Sundays, 1–2 pm. Learn about the many electronic resources, including e-books and audiobooks, available through the Library. Bring your laptop, smart phone, tablet, or e-reader with you, along with a valid library card.

Ask About Medicare

Open Canoeing & Open Fishing

Rosa F. Keller Library & Community Center. Come in for a personalized one-on-one educational drop-in and get answers.

Find out what Medicare covers, what it costs, how and when to enroll, and what your options are. Educational materials will also be available. Wednesdays, 5–7 pm.

Joe W. Brown Rec Center. Enjoy free canoeing and fishing in the lagoon. All equipment is provided and no knowledge is necessary; just bring yourself and be ready to have fun! Fishing instruction is offered to those who are new to fishing. Every Saturday, 10 am–noon.

Ranger Talk

Community Pilates Class

French Quarter Visitor Center. Join a ranger, Tuesdays–Saturdays, in the visitor center courtyard to discover New Orleans’ history and culture. 9:30 am.

Romney Studios. Community class for $5 every Saturday at 11 am. Get there early because this class fills up quickly

Wetlands Walk Barataria Preserve. Every Wednesday–Sunday, join a ranger for a guided walk on a boardwalk trail through wild Louisiana swamp and marsh. Stop by the visitor center or call 504.689.3690 ext. 10.

10 am.

Historic Thibodaux Walking Tour Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center. Join a National Park Service ranger for a free one-hour walking tour of historic Thibodaux.

Every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at 10:30 am.

Book Clubs and Conversation Groups Coffee & Coloring Main Library. Spend the afternoon in a relaxing environment with coffee, coloring, and conversation. Coloring materials provided, but you are welcome to bring your own. Free. Repeats every month on the first Wednesday. 2–3:30 pm.

Discussing the New Yorker

Fitness Fun Water Aerobics Locations vary. Join one of NORD’s water aerobics classes for non-weight bearing exercise. No prerequisites. Visit nordc.org/ aquatics for more information.

Senior Dance Fitness

Rosa F. Keller Library & Community Center. Read and discuss The New Yorker using hard copies in the library or the online version on Flipster. Registration required by emailing j.henree14@gmail. com. Free. Repeats every Thursday. 1–2:30 pm.

Poetry Buffet Milton H. Latter Memorial Library. Local poets share their work in a monthly gathering. Free. Repeats each month on the first Saturday. 2–4 pm.

St. Maria Goretti Church, 7300 Crowder Blvd. Stretching, cardio through dance, fun music, and healthy eating/lifestyle education for men and women ages 55 and older. Registration is free and ongoing. Visit nordc.org/activities/senior-activities for more information. Mondays, 10:30 am–12:30 pm.

Coffee & Coloring

Restorative Candlelight Yoga,

Southern Nights Book Club

Esplanade City Park, 3443 Esplanade Ave. A gentle moving class to help tune in to the mind and spirit, while providing the body support in deep restorative poses. Reserve your spot at jaibhaktiyogafoundation.org/schedule.html. $8/person.

Mondays, 6–7:15 pm.

Manning’s. Happy’s is your weekly, fun and relaxed social run through Downtown, French Quarter, the CBD, or the Riverfront.

Route specifics are announced on the Happy’s Facebook page!

Wednesdays, 7:15–8 am.

Free Zumba Class Milne Rec Center. Free classes provided by NORD. Instructor Diobelkis is bringing the Latin flava & heat to the dance floor, NOLA style. Wednesdays, 6–7 pm.

Tribe Yard Yoga The Tchoup Yard, 305 Third St. Enjoy 55 minutes of all-levels, pumped up yoga and create a fun-loving community of yogis.

The all-levels yoga flow will begin at 6:30 pm. Mats are available for $3. Class is $5/person. Wednesdays, 6:30–7:30 pm.

Milton H. Latter Memorial Library. Discuss a new book about the south by a southern author each month. Free. Repeats every month on the second Thursday. 6–7 pm.

English Conversation Circle Rosa F. Keller Library & Community Center. A welcoming community looking to strengthen their English speaking skills.

Geared towards the English-as-a-second-language community.

Free. Repeats every Tuesday. 6–7:45 pm.

La Table Louisianaise Rosa F. Keller Library & Community Center. Join the Louisiana French conversation and discussion group to learn about the history of French in Louisiana, its presence today, and its future.

All fluency levels welcome. Free. Repeats every Tuesday. 6–7 pm.

Spanish Conversation Circle Rosa F. Keller Library & Community Center. A comfortable environment to improve Spanish language fluency. Free.

Repeats every Wednesday. 6–7 pm.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

Nola Happy’s Running Club

Main Library. Spend the afternoon in a relaxing environment with coffee, coloring, and conversation. Coloring materials provided, but you are welcome to bring your own. Free. Repeats every month on the first Wednesday. 2–3:30 pm.

33

Queer Book Club Main Library. Meet with other LGBTQ+ community members and allies to discuss radical books and sip tea. Free. Repeats every month on the second Sunday. 2:30–3:30 pm.

Toastmasters Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center. Whether you have a big speech coming up or just want to improve your confidence, come learn public speaking skills to be a more effective communicator. Free. Repeats every Monday. 6–7:30 pm.

Silent Story Time

Urban Fiction Book Club

A Book Club Named Desire

Creative Writing Workshop Rosa F. Keller Library & Community Center. Write your own story and share it with others for helpful feedback in this group.

| september/october 2019

Norman Mayer Library. Discuss a new, exciting book that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Call 504.596.3100 for the book of the month. Free. Repeats every month on the third Thursday.

5:30–6:30 pm.

Milton H. Latter Memorial Library. New members are always welcome to join this monthly book club. Free. Repeats every month on the second Thursday. 11 am–12:30 pm.

East New Orleans Regional Library. Discuss a new book in this exciting genre each month. Call 504.596.0200 for the book of the month. Free. Repeats every month on the second Saturday. 1–3 pm.

www.nolaboomers.com

Booked for Murder Book Club

Main Library. Listen, with headphones, to a story with the group.

Selections include poems, essays, stories, music, and more.

Headphones are available for checkout in the library. Free. Repeats every month on the third Friday. 2–3:30 pm.

Bookie Boomers Book Club

34

Registration is required via email mlopez@nolalibrary.org or phone 504.596.2660. Free. Repeats every month on the third Monday. 6–7:30 pm.

Milton H. Latter Memorial Library. Hop off the street car to join this monthly book club. Free. Repeats every month on the fourth Wednesday. 6–7:45 pm.

o G e h T n O IN NOLA

Celebrate New Orleans’ Latin American culture on October 6 with Audubon Zoo’s Celebracion Latina.

SEPTEMBER SUN 1

Southern Decadence

The New Canal Lighthouse, 8001 Lakeshore Dr. Relax by the water and the gorgeous Canal Lighthouse each Sunday evening. Repeats every Sunday until September 22. 6:30–7:30 pm.

MON 2

300 N. Broad St. Want to change up your farmers market selection? This market offers local produce, kimchi, cocoafruit leather, pesto, and salad dressing.

Repeats every Monday. 4–7 pm.

WED 4

Finding Focus

Longue Vue House and Gardens. An adaptive yoga session based on the seasonal attractions in the gardens.

Physical limits should not keep you from participating. $10 donation suggested.

5:30–6:30 pm.

Kenner Freedom Fest Laketown, Williams Blvd., Kenner.

Celebrate the hardworking men and women of Jefferson Parish with food, music, and fun. Doors open at 3 pm.

ReFresh Project Community Garden Farmers Market

LABOR DAY

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

(continues all weekend) Various locations throughout the French Quarter. Celebrate the New Orleans LGBTQ+ community with various brunches, parties, and soirees throughout Labor Day weekend.

Yoga at the Lighthouse

35

Poppy Tooker

Chris Young

East Bank Regional Library. Metairie.

Meet local author and gastronome Poppy Tooker when she visits the library.

7–8:30 pm.

THURS 5

Champions Square. Country music singer Chris Young tours with fellow country artist Chris Janson. Ticket prices vary.

Show starts at 7 pm.

The Marvelous Wonderettes

767 Robert Blvd., Slidell. Pop color and pop music meet in this fun musical set in a ‘50s high school. Ticket prices start at $25. Recurring show every Friday and Saturday until September 28. 8 pm.

Exhibition Tour with Wilma Subra Thursdays at Twilight: Ladies of Soul

City Park. Naydja CoJoe, Rechelle Cook, and Sharon Martin sing familiar New Orleans jazz, rhythm, and blues tunes. $10/person admission. 5–8 pm.

Davis Rogan at Ogden After Hours

Ogden Museum of Southern Art. New Orleans pianist, songwriter, actor, and scriptwriter Davis Roagn performs. $11/senior admission. $13.50/adult admission. 6–8 pm.

Newcomb Art Museum, Woldenberg Art Center, Suite 202, Newcomb Circle, New Orleans. Explore the museum with “The People’s Scientist” Wilma Subra. 12–1 pm.

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

Newcomb Art Museum Opening Reception

36

Newcomb Art Museum, Woldenberg Art Center, Suite 202, Newcomb Circle.

Experience the opening night of Newcomb’s newest collections and mingle with the collaborators. Free catering, drinks, and live music. 5–8 pm.

FRI 6

Bucktown Harbor Farmers Market Bucktown Harbor, 325 Hammond Hwy, Metairie. Try some local produce and meats or buy the whole family a meal from a local vendor and enjoy live music, crafts, and activities. Repeats every Friday. 3–7pm.

Freret St. and Napoleon Ave. Listen to music, check out local food and art vendors, and spend some time outside with friends. 12–4 pm.

Restoration Rx: A Morning with the Masters 419 Decatur St., New Orleans. Join the park, New Orleans Master Crafts Guild, and the Vieux Carre Commission Foundation for a presentation by experts on the efforts to preserve local historic properties. 10 am–1 pm.

Collections Tour Newcomb Art Museum, Woldenberg Art Center, Suite 202, Newcomb Circle. Learn about Newcomb’s permanent collection of pottery and Newcomb Enterprise history. Repeats every month on the first Friday. Space is limited. 12–1 pm.

Mahjong Meetup Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center. Play the ancient Chinese game with other players. Repeats every Thursday. 10 am–2 pm.

Freret Market

MAKE Break Fall Initial Wreath Michael’s, 2900 S. Claiborne Ave., New Orleans. Shop around for a wreath base and then decorate it with provided supplies. 1–3 pm.

Fall Pontchartrain Home Show and Langenstein’s Food Fest

Oyster and Pearl Gala

The Alexander Room, 3200 Ridgelake Dr., Metairie. Support the East Jefferson YMCA at this benefit which features food, drinks, raffles, music, and a silent auction. Tickets start at $80. 7–10 pm.

continues all weekend Pontchartrain Convention and Civic Center, 4545 Williams Blvd., Kenner. Find some new ways to spruce up your home this fall and enter to win door prizes. $12/person. 10 am–5 pm.

SAT 7

Red Run

City Park. Run through the park to raise money for NOLA Sickle Cell Awareness in the 5th Annual Red Run.

Saints Kickoff Run

Champions Square. Line up on the Saints 50 yard line and take off on a run through the CBD. Celebrate crossing the finish line with a post-race tailgate party hosted in Champions Square. Visit saints5k.com/register to register. Race starts at 7:30 am.

Official Who Dat Nation Rally and Music Festival continues all weekend LaSalle Park, 6600 Airline Dr., Metairie.

Be a part of the first two-day festival to kickoff the Saints season filled with New Orleans pride. $30/person for one day or $45/person for two days. Times vary.

MON 9

THURS 12

Thursdays at Twilight: Wanda Rouzan and a Taste of New Orleans

City Park. Wanda Rouzan and her band perform New Orleans-style music. $10/ person admission. 5–8 pm.

Restaurant Week New Orleans (continues till Sunday, Sept. 15) Various restaurants around the city.

Participate in a weeklong celebration of New Orleans cuisine sponsored by the Louisiana Restaurant Association, Greater New Orleans chapter. Restaurants will offer special discounts and fixed-price menus. Prices and times vary by restaurant. Visit restaurantweekneworleans.com.

Saints vs. Houston Texans

Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Cheer on the Saints in their first, regular season home game. Ticket prices vary. Kickoff is at 6:10 pm.

WED 11

Night in Blue

Generations Hall, 310 Andrew Higgins.

Crimestoppers annual fundraiser pays tribute to Dr. John with music, food, and auction for youth crime prevention programs. Visit crimstoppersgno.org for ticket information. 7:30–11 pm.

Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St., New Orleans. Join Octavia Books and local writers for their 3rd annual literary reading series event. $10 donation encouraged. 6 pm.

Gallier House Shop, 1128 Royal St., New Orleans. Learn about the expansion of the French empire from professor Arad Gigi. $10/person in advance or any time for museum members. $12/person at the door. 5:30–7:30 pm.

Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts, 325 Minor St., Kenner. Dolly Parton’s lyrics light up the stage in this musical about women resisting sexism in the workplace. Ticket prices start at $36/person. Recurring each weekend through September 29 with showings at 7:30 pm and 2 pm Sunday matinee showings.

SAT 14

Orpheum Theater. Experience opening night of the 2019-2020 Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra’s season featuring artist Pacho Flores. A dinner will precede the performance. Black tie preferred. $250/person. 7:30 pm.

Tiffany Window Tour Newcomb Art Museum, Woldenberg Art Center, Suite 202, Newcomb Circle. Take a walking tour of the Tiffany Windows on Tulane’s uptown campus. Repeats every month on the second Thursday. Space is limited. 12–1 pm.

Freeman Auditorium, 7018-7098 Plum St., New Orleans. Watch the awardwinning film with staff and members of the Newcomb Art Museum at Tulane University. 9–11 pm.

Monarch Festival

Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, 11000 Lake Forest Blvd. Learn about the natural migration of monarch butterflies while surrounded by the painted, winged beauties themselves. Face painting, crafts, and food trucks will also be available.

The planetarium will screen “Flight of the Butterflies.” $8 for members, $10 for nonmembers. 10 am–4 pm.

Tulane Football vs.

Missouri State

Yulman Stadium. Support the Green Wave as they take on the Missouri State Bears. Ticket prices vary. Kickoff at 7 pm.

Clare Horgan East Bank Regional Library. Metairie.

Listen to the music of budding country singer Clare Horgan. 7–8:30 pm.

Irish Fest New Orleans

Kingsley House, 1600 Constance St., New Orleans. Immerse yourself in the active Irish cultural community through music, games, food, and dancing. Tickets are $8 in advance, $10 on festival day. 9 am–7 pm.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

September Gallier Gathering: Building the Early-Modern French Empire

9 to 5 The Musical

Gala con Pacho

Film Screening of “If Beale Street Could Talk” Why There Are Words

FRI 13

37

Whatever Lola Wants

New Orleans Museum of Art. Join NOMA’s artist’s choice film series with a screening of the French-Canadian romantic drama “Whatever Lola Wants.”

2–4 pm.

Handmade Pasta Adult Cooking Night

Culinary Kids, 915 Marigny Ave., Mandeville. Join the Corks and Cooking adult cooking club and staff chef in making handmade pasta. BYOB. $60/ person advanced registration required.

Space is limited. 6–8 pm.

SUN 15

WED 18

Songs that Won the War

National WWII Museum. The Victory Belles sing the songs that inspired the Allies during a lunch time performance. $42.99/ person with a $3 discount for museum members. Repeats every Wednesday through October 24. 11:45 am–1:45 pm.

“Buckjumping” Movie Screening Children’s Resource Center Library. The film “Buckjumping” turns the focus to New Orleans dancers that captures the rhythm of the streets. 6:30–7:40 pm.

Colors of the Mind

Yoga with a Vue

Longue Vue House and Gardens. Alllevels yoga hosted in the Longue Vue gardens with a tour for visitors after the session. Free for members. $5 for nonmembers. 10–11 am.

MON 16

Fillmore, 6 Canal St., New Orleans. Help raise money for the expand neuroscience research efforts, improve patient experience, and improve caregiver support for families in the Ochsner Neuroscience Institute. Tickets start at $150. 6–10 pm.

| september/october 2019 www.nolaboomers.com

38

TUES 17

Old Metairie Farmers Market Bayou Metairie Park, Metairie. Browse local vendors and listen to local music at this monthly, open-air farmers market.

3:30–7:30 pm.

Ogden Museum of Southern Art. New Orleans singer, songwriter, and guitarist Joy Clark blends bluesy sounds with folk and alternative influences in her original music. $11/person senior admission. $13.50/person adult admission. 6–8 pm.

Measure for Measure

New Orleans Museum of Art. The NOLA Project presents a new take on William Shakespeare’s “Measure for Measure.” $33/ person standard admission. Repeats on select dates in September. 7:30–9:30 pm.

Beethoven’s “Emperor” and Mahler Five

Orpheum Theater. Celebrate the 250th anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s birth by listening to the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra’s performance of two of his pieces. Tickets start at $20. 7:30 pm.

FRI 20

THURS 19

Tulane Football vs. Houston

Yulman Stadium. Support the Green Wave as they take on the Houston Cougars.

Ticket prices vary. Kickoff i sat 7 pm.

Beatles Day in New Orleans Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St., New Orleans. Join the bookstore and author Steven Y. Landry in celebrating the 55th anniversary of the Beatles concert in City Park. Landry will be available to talk about and sign his new book “Beatles Day in New Orleans.” 6 pm.

Joy Clark at Ogden After Hours

Fried Chicken Fest continues all weekend Woldenberg Riverfront Park. Chow down on fried chicken and enjoy an energetic southern festival weekend. Visit friedchickenfestival.com for more details.

Dine with the Sharks

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas.

Support sustainable fisheries and gulf restoration while enjoying a five-course meal surrounded by sharks, stingrays, and fish. For more information, visit audubonnatureinstitute.org/aquarium.

Doors open at 6:30 pm.

Thursdays at Twilight: Trac One City Park. Some of the greatest southern talents perform music that will make you get on your feet. $10/person admission. 5–8 pm.

Martini Madness City Park. Sample over 25 specialty martinis and dishes from over 35 local restaurants. The event also includes a raffle, photo booth, and DJ. $65/person general admission ticket which includes food and drink. $10 discount for Friends of City Park members. 8–11 pm.

Shots, Steaks, and Stogies

1 Timberlane Dr., Gretna. Enjoy a threecourse steak dinner, bourbon tasting, and Cigar Factory stogies at this benefit for Cafe Hope. $75/person. Reservations required. 6–8 pm.

SAT 21

NOLA on Tap

City Park. Kick off Oktoberfest at the largest beer festival in the region. The event features live music; hundreds of local, national, and homebrewed beers; food; and more. Dogs are welcome. $10/ person. Noon–7 pm.

AHS’ Historical Documents Gift Algiers Regional Library. Leon Miller, head of the Louisiana Research Center at Tulane University, discusses the large donation of Algiers memorabilia and what it reveals. 10 am–noon.

Observing the Inner Landscape

Ogden Museum of Southern Art. An artist’s workshop using pastels to explore and approach techniques used in abstract pieces. Materials provided.

Registration required. $45/person for non-members. Museum members receive a $5 discount. 1–4 pm.

Lake Pontchartrain Basin Area. Participate in the biggest community cleanup project in Southeastern Louisiana. Register with a team of friends or come on your own to help out this year. For more information visit saveourlake.org/beachsweep.

TUES 24

Collecting Seed from Louisiana Native Plants

City Park. Environmentalist and landscape designer Marc Pastorek leads a class on collecting and storing seeds from the natural wildflowers and grasses of Louisiana. Bring your own gardening questions and leave with some new tips. $12/person. 10:30 am–noon.

Beach Sweep 2019

Nevada Barr The New Orleans Pancakes and Booze Art Show

Howlin’ Wolf, 907 S. Peters St., New Orleans. Who doesn’t love pancakes?

Enjoy an all-you-can-eat pancake bar, over 50 local artists, local music, and live art at this fun, nightlong event. $10/ person cash at the door. 8 pm–2 am.

NOLA Bluedoo

Tulane University Gibson Quad. Join Dr. Oliver Sartor’s Prostate Cancer Research Program in fundraising for prostate cancer research. Enjoy live music, food, drinks, fun run, and costuming. $25/person. 5 pm.

Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St., New Orleans. Meet author Nevada Barr when she visits the bookstore to sign and talk about her book “What Rose Forgot” about a grandmother emerging from a mental fog. 6 pm.

April’s Crafty Hands Milton H. Latter Memorial Library.

Knit, crochet, and chat in this group that donates blankets and children’s accessories to the Louisiana Foster Care organization. Repeats every month on the last Tuesday. 5–6:30 pm.

Our Grandparent Issue!

Nov/Dec 2019

To advertise call 504.866.0555 or email info@nolaboomers.com

Longevity Booster - living longer, better.

Play on! Adult sports leagues and clubs.

Happy Hours - celebrations and gatherings!

Picking the right Memory Care Facility, plus listings.

Staying connected with your grandkids, near and far.

What to expect when they’re expecting - your first grandchild!

Home for the Holidays - identifying when your parents need help.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

In this issue:

39

Barred from Books

Hispanic Heritage Festival

Crown & Anchor Pub, 200 Pelican Ave. Celebrate banned books with a beverage and readings from these banned books.

6:30–8 pm.

New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage in the park with performances by Hispanic artists. 1–8 pm.

THURS 26

How Do You Cook Dat Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center. Learn how to make meals featuring ingredients found at the Broadmoor Food Pantry. Call 504.249.5130 to reserve your spot. Repeats every month on the fourth Friday. 11 am–1 pm.

LOVE in the Garden Alligator Festival continues all weekend Westbank Bridge Park, 13825 River Rd., Luling. Come see all things alligator from alligator-themed games, alligator dishes, and live gators. Proceeds provide local students with scholarships.

Visit alligatorfestival.org for more information.

Thursdays at Twilight: Lena Prima

City Park. Daughter of Louis Prima performs some of his songs along with her own tunes. $10/person admission.

5–8 pm.

Kevin Gordon at Ogden After Hours

Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Rock n’roll poet Kevin Gordon captures the complexities of life and “normal” in Louisiana. $11/person senior admission. $13.50/person adult admission. 6–8 pm.

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

From the New World

40

Orpheum Theater. Welcome new conductor Maestro Thomas Wilkins to the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra in his first performance featuring the piece “From the New World.” Tickets start at $20. 7:30 pm.

FRI 27

New Orleans Museum of Art Sculpture Garden. Join NOMA for its annual soiree with dancing and dining under the stars.

Tickets starts at $75. Main event starts at 8 pm.

MAKE Break Boo-tiful Pumpkins

Michael’s, S. Claiborne Ave., New Orleans.

Start Halloween season a month early with this pumpkin decorating workshop.

Shop around for a craft pumpkin and use provided supplies to decorate it. 1–3 pm.

SUN 29

Gretna Heritage Festival continues all weekend Old Gretna, Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna.

Learn about the various cultures of Gretna at this music festival complete with games, activities, food, and drinks.

Ticket prices vary. Times vary by day during the festival weekend.

Saints vs. Dallas Cowboys

Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Cheer on the Saints as they take on the Cowboys in the dome. Ticket prices vary. Kickoff is at 7:20 pm.

SAT 28

Gleason Gras + Saints Pep Rally Champions Square. Kick off the Saints season with fellow fans and raise money for Team Gleason. $10 suggested donation. 5–10:30 pm.

‘70s Soul Jam

Saenger Theatre. Soul Jam artists the Stylistics, Delfonics, Emotions, Heatwave, and Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes bring their smooth tunes to New Orleans for one night only. Ticket prices vary. Show starts at 8 pm.

Arts Market Palmer Park. Monthly, open-air arts and local food market. Live music throughout the day. 10 am–4 pm.

PurpleStride

City Park. Take a stroll through the park to raise money in support of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. Participation prices vary by age. Higher registration fees charged on the day of the event. Registration begins at 7 am. Walk begins at 8:30 am.

MAKE Break Fall Floral Pumpkin

Michael’s, S. Claiborne Ave., New Orleans.

Get in the fall spirit with this pumpkin decorating workshop. Shop around for a craft pumpkin and decorate using provided supplies. 2–4 pm.

MON 30

Columbia Street Block Party

L.O.C.A.L.S Fest

New Orleans Trombone Choir

North Columbia St., Covington. Enjoy live music and DJs throughout the historic St. John district as classic cars fill the streets. 6:30 pm.

Louis Armstrong Park. Learn about local small businesses and support new startups amidst music and art in the park.

Donations encouraged. 11 am–6 pm.

East Bank Regional Library. Metairie. Listen to eight trombonists play live. 7–9 pm.

OCTOBER

SUN 6

WED 2

Saints vs.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Cheer on the Saints as they take on the Bucs in the dome. Ticket prices vary. Kickoff at noon.

Wicked

Saenger Theatre. The hit Broadway musical comes to New Orleans just in time for the spooky month of October.

Ticket prices vary. Show performances occur throughout the month ending on October 20. Showtimes vary by day.

Finding Focus

Longue Vue House and Gardens. An adaptive yoga session based on the seasonal attractions in the gardens.

Physical limits should not keep you from participating. $10 donation suggested.

5:30–6:30 pm.

Marybeth Lima East Bank Regional Library. Metaurue. Meet local birder and author Marybeth Lima as she talks about her book “Adventures of a Louisiana Birder.” 7–8:30 pm.

THURS 3

Oktoberfest continues each Friday & Saturday till October 19 Deutsches Haus, 1700 Moss St., New Orleans. Celebrate Oktoberfest at this new spot across from City Park. 4–11 pm, Fridays. 1–11 pm, Saturdays.

SAT 5

Jefferson Parish Library Literature Fest

East Bank Regional Library. Metairie.

9:30 am–4:30 pm.

Scales and Ales

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas. Dive into a night of delicious cuisine, drinks, and live entertainment to celebrate sharks. 8–11 pm.

Great Pumpkin Event

Michael’s, S. Claiborne Ave., New Orleans.

Make your very own great pumpkin inspired by your costume or favorite Halloween character. Buy the craft pumpkin and use provided supplies to decorate it. 1–3 pm.

Fall Garden Festival continues all weekend City Park. Visit the Botanical Gardens for exhibits, plant sales, educational programs, and live music. Free for Friends of City Park members and $10/ person for general admission. Festival opens at 10 am each day.

Big Book Sale continues all weekend Pontchartrain Convention and Civic Center, 4545 Williams Blvd., Kenner.

Support Jefferson Public Libraries by buying used books, puzzles, CDs, DVDs, and more at this four-day book sale.

Times vary by day.

Thursdays at Twilight: New Orleans Mystics

City Park. Enjoy songs from the Temptations, O’Jays, Marvin Gaye, and Otis Redding in a tribute to Motown. $10/admission. 5–8 pm.

Gracias Christmas Cantata

UNO Lakefront Arena. Witness the showstopping national musical experience that will fill your heart with the Christmas spirit. Visit christmascantata.us for more information.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

Smoothie King Center. Country music star goes on tour with supporting artists Maren Morris, Pistol Annies, and Tenille Townes.

Ticket prices vary. Show starts at 7 pm.

THURS 10

New Orleans Museum of Art. Join NOMA’s artist’s choice film series with a screening of American teen musical drama “Fame.” 5–7 pm.

City Park. Louisiana’s premiere dance band will get you on the dance floor with their extensive playlist. $10/person admission. 5–8 pm.

Miranda Lambert: Roadside Bars and Pink Guitars Tour

Audubon Zoo. Experience a true taste of Latin American culture with live music and authentic Latin cuisine from local restaurants. Free admission with Zoo admission or Audubon Nature Institute membership. 11 am–4 pm.

Fame

Thursdays at Twilight: Harvey Jesus and Fire

FRI 4

Celebracion Latina

41

FRI 11

WED 16

Gentilly Fest

SAT 19

Tails but No Black Tie

continues all weekend Pontchartrain Park, 6500 Park Dr., New Orleans. Get festive in Gentilly’s annual weekend-long festival. Times vary by day.

SAT 12

Gretna Oktoberfest German-American Cultural Center, 519 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna. Celebrate Oktoberfest with authentic German beer, brats, and live music. 10 am–3 pm.

Carnaval Latino

Various locations around the city.

Celebrate the Latin culture of all the Americas, carnaval-style. A parade will take place throughout the city and several venues will host Latin artists. For more information, visit carnavalatinola.com.

New Orleans Film Festival continues till October 23 Various theaters across New Orleans.

View and learn about new films from prominent and emerging filmmakers.

Ticket prices vary. Showtimes vary.

THURS 17

Thursdays at Twilight: Paul Soniat and Special Guests

City Park. Director of the New Orleans City Park Botanical Gardens performs his original songs. $10/person admission.

5–8 pm.

Ghosts in the Oaks continues all weekend City Park. Storyland and the amusement park transform into a haunted landscape with trick or treating, rides, and a pumpkin patch. General admission 6–9 pm.

City Park. The park becomes a country estate filled with the nation’s finest horses, catered food, and an open bar. For more information and ticket sales, visit tailsbutnoblacktie.org. Gates open at 4 pm.

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure

City Park. Support breast cancer research by participating in this year’s Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.

Registration costs vary. 7–10 am.

O What a Night!

Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Ogden Museum’s annual black-tie fundraiser will include music, dancing, cocktails, cuisine, and art auctions. Visit ogdenmuseum.org/event/o-what-anight-3 for more information and tickets.

6–11 pm.

Dara Tucker at Ogden After Hours Japan Fest

www.nolaboomers.com

| september/october 2019

New Orleans Museum of Art. Participate in the largest celebration of Japanese culture in the Gulf South with traditional dance groups, food, martial arts, and arts. Free for NOMA members. $5/person for non-members. 10 am–4 pm.

42

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”

Mahalia Jackson Theater. Experience Harry Potter in a brand new way as the theater screens the movie while Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra performs the score live. Tickets start at $10/person. 7:30 pm.

Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Jazz vocalist and songwriter Dara Tucker performs at the museum. $11/person senior admission. $13.50/person adult admission. 6–8 pm.

FRI 18

“The Sound of Music” continues till October 27 Jefferson Performing Arts Center.

Watch the classic musical by Rodgers and Hammerstein brought to life by Jefferson Performing Arts. Tickets start at $20/person. Recurring performances through October 27. Times vary.

Weston Spiro

New Orleans Jazz Museum. Los Angeles native travels to New Orleans to perform piano, electric piano, organ, and vocals inspired by church music. $8/person. 2–3 pm.

Krewe of Boo Parade Wear your Halloween costume a little early to go watch New Orleans annual Halloween parade and bring home some throws to add to your costume. Visit kreweofboo.com to see parade route. 6:30 pm.

Risotto and Cannolis Adult Cooking Night

Culinary Kids, 915 Marigny Ave., Mandeville. Join the Corks and Cooking adult cooking club and staff chef in making risotto and cannolis. BYOB. $60/ person advanced registration required.

Space is limited. 6–8 pm.

MAKE Break Halloween T-Shirt

Michael’s, S. Claiborne Ave. Create your own Halloween costume. Buy a T-shirt and use provided supplies to decorate it. 1–3 pm.

SUN 20

Yoga with a Vue

Longue Vue House and Gardens. Alllevels yoga hosted in the Longue Vue gardens with a tour for visitors after the session. Free for members. $5 for nonmembers. 10–11 am.

“The Color Purple” continues till October 27 Mahalia Jackson Theater. The play adaptation of Alice Walker’s novel comes to New Orleans for a weekend of jazz, gospel, ragtime, and blues. Ticket prices vary. 7:30 pm only Friday. 2 pm matinee, and 7:30 pm showings Saturday and Sunday.

SUN 27

Saints vs. Arizona Cardinals

Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Cheer on the Saints as they take on the Cardinals in the dome. Ticket prices vary. Kickoff is at 7:20 pm.

Halloween at City Putt continues till October 27 City Park. Share Halloween treats and candy and test out your mini golf tricks at City Putt. $9/person admission. Recurring daily through October 27. 2–9 pm.

Halloween Spooktacular

Roussel Hall, 6363 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans. Attend the orchestra prior to the Saints game. Halloween costumes are welcome. $15/person. 2 pm.

Brews and Boos continues till October 26 City Park. A Halloween-themed party fundraiser for City Park. Halloween costumes are welcome. Ticket prices vary.

Repeats the next night. 10:30 pm–1:30 am.

THURS 24

SAT 26

Crawloween continues till October 28 Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium. Get spooked by learning about, and eating, some creepy crawlers. $3 admission, discount if you wear a costume. 10 am–4:30 pm.

TUES 29

“We Will Rock You”

Thursdays at Twilight: Boogiemen Swing Band

Bat Festival

City Park. Sway and swing through the night to the music of Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble, and Harry Connick Jr. $10/ person admission. 5–8 pm.

Audubon Louisiana Nature Center. Learn all about bats from bat gardening, a lecture, and bat-week recipes. Food trucks and concessions will be available.

10 am–4 pm.

Romantic German Masters

NORD Fishing Rodeo

FRI 25

“November” continues each weekend till November 10 Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts, 325 Minor St., Kenner. A politically incorrect look at the figures who run our country to get you ready for the upcoming election day. Tickets are $35/ person.

Joe W. Brown Park, 5601 Read Blvd. The 1st annual fishing rodeo will feature over 1,000 pounds of catfish in the lagoon, raffle prizes, and other fishingrelated fun. 7–9:30 am.

Tour de Cure

UNO Lakefront Arena. Ride, run, walk in the 5K to raise money for the American Diabetes Association. $25 registration in advance. $35 registration day-of race.

THURS 31

Thursdays at Twilight: Panorama Spooktacular Show for Halloween

City Park. Cover band Panorama plays music from New Orleans artists of different genres. Halloween costumes are welcome. $10/person admission. 5–8 pm.

Ancient Spirits

Orpheum Theater. Get in the spooky spirit with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. Tickets start at $20/person.

7:30 pm.

september/october 2019 | www.nolaboomers.com

Orpheum Theater. Experience German classics from the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra featuring guest cellist Lynn Harrell. Tickets start at $20. 7:30 pm.

Saenger Theatre. Queen’s musical tells the story of a futuristic world where the two main characters battle to bring back rock n’roll. Ticket prices vary. Show begins at 8 pm.

43