Check out November newsletter!
“Quality Is No Accident” FLATTMANN FILES THE JOY OF OUR BIG FAMILY THANKSGIVING GATHERINGS Cooking, Chaos, and Gratitude
November 2024
Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and in my household, that means one thing: controlled chaos in the best way possible. My wife comes from a pretty big family — three sisters, a brother, and more nieces and nephews than I can count. We’re talking kids ranging from babies to college-age and everything in between. So, you can imagine when we all get together, it’s loud and a little chaotic but filled with some of the best energy you could ask for. Honestly, as the years go by, these gatherings feel more and more meaningful. As our families expand and the kids get older, it seems like we don’t get together as often as we used to. So, when we do, I try to remind myself to enjoy the moment, even if I can’t have a quiet, meaningful conversation with every single person. Just being in the same room — even if it’s a loud one — is still pretty incredible. Every year, I toss out the idea of maybe going somewhere different, taking advantage of the little time we get off work. But my daughter is quick to shut that down. She always reminds me how important it is to see family, especially during holidays. And you know what? She’s right. I’m thankful for those little reminders, and as I get older, I’ve come to appreciate the moments when time seems to slow down, and you can just enjoy the here and now. With how fast life moves these days, it’s easy to get caught up in what’s happening next week or month, but Thanksgiving is an excellent time to focus on what’s in front of you. In our house, the Thanksgiving feast is a group effort. Everyone brings their own dish, but I’m in charge of a couple of holiday essentials. One of my favorites is crawfish cornbread dressing. It’s a Paul Prudhomme recipe I’ve tinkered with over the years, and it’s always a hit. If there’s one thing I know, I’ll never leave the table hungry. I also smoke the turkey every year. Now, I like to think I’ve gotten pretty good at smoking meats, but I’ll be the first to admit —
turkey is tricky. It has a mind of its own. Sometimes, despite my best efforts, that bird will stall, and I’ll be stuck waiting for what feels like forever. Every year, I tell myself this will be the year I nail the timing, and every year, I end up running late with the turkey while everyone else starts eating. But hey, it always turns out tasty in the end, and I always feel a sense of pride when the turkey comes out just right! As for sweets, well, we’ve got plenty of those, too. My daughter loves to bake, and my sister-in-law is right there with her. So, after the big meal, the younger kids usually buzz around with sugar highs from who knows how many brownies or slices of pie. I can’t keep up with that pace anymore, but they seem to have it figured out. One thing we can never predict is the weather here in Louisiana. Sometimes, it’s hot enough for shorts, and other times, you’ve got to bundle up. Either way, football will be on the TV, and if the Saints are playing, you can bet we’ll all be huddled together on the couch, cheering them on.
So, that’s our Thanksgiving in a nutshell — loud, chaotic, delicious, and full of family. And I wouldn’t have it any other way. -Grady Flattmann
SCAN THE QR CODE TO VISIT OUR YOUTUBE PAGE
(985) 590-6182 • 1
Published by Newsletter Pro • www.newsletterpro.com
THE $93,750 SPUD Uncover Fabergé’s Unexpected Masterpiece
a Fabergé potato, the world did a collective double-take. After all, who would have thought a potato — albeit one crafted by a master jeweler
When you think of the name Fabergé, you probably imagine opulent, jewel-encrusted eggs that epitomize luxury and elegance. But did you know the famous Russian jeweler Peter Carl Fabergé, the mastermind behind the glittering eggs, also created a humble potato? And not just any potato, but one that fetched an astounding $93,750 at a Christie’s auction in 2016. Fabergé’s Glorious Spud In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Peter Carl Fabergé was the go-to jeweler for Russian royalty. His intricate and lavish creations, particularly the famous Fabergé eggs, were commissioned by Tsars Alexander III and Nicholas II as Easter gifts for their wives and mothers. Each egg was a masterpiece, often containing hidden surprises like miniature portraits, mechanical wonders, expensive jewels, or even tiny replicas of royal palaces. But amidst these exquisite creations, Fabergé had a sense of humor and a knack for the unexpected. Enter the Fabergé potato — a far cry from the shimmering eggs but equally fascinating in its own right. This potato, crafted from pink agate, was a whimsical
— would garner such attention and a hefty price tag to match?
The bidding war was intense, with collectors and Fabergé
enthusiasts eager to own this unique piece of history. When the gavel finally came down, the potato had sold for a staggering $93,750. Not bad for a root vegetable! Why a Potato? You might wonder why Fabergé, a jeweler known for his elaborate and luxurious designs, chose to make a potato. Perhaps it was his way of showing artistry could be found in the simplest of things. Or maybe it was a playful nod to the significance of potatoes in Russian culture — a staple food that sustained many through tough times. Whatever the reason, Fabergé’s potato reminds us that even the most mundane objects can be transformed into something extraordinary with a bit of creativity and a touch of humor.
departure from his usual opulent fare. The Humble Potato’s Journey
Fast-forward to 2016, and this extraordinary potato was again in the spotlight. When Christie’s auction house announced the sale of
PECULIAR LAWS OF THE ANCIENT EMPIRE ROMAN RULES
Dress Codes and Party Fouls Beginning in around 215 BC, the Roman Republic began instituting what was known as sumptuary laws, which restricted the clothes people could wear, foods they could eat, and the maximum number of attendees at parties. They created these, in part, to reduce the costs of banquets, festivals, and other Roman ragers. Some examples were enacted in 213 BC when it became illegal for women to wear colorful dresses — unless they were celebrating a ritual sacrifice — to wear more than a half ounce of gold or even to ride around in carriages. However, they soon repealed these laws because they considered them antiquated . Shocking Statute Tough luck for those who like hanging out on tall metal poles — if a lightning strike killed someone in Rome, the law forbade families from burying them! This is because Romans believed lightning strikes were
divine retribution from the king of the Roman pantheon, Jupiter. See Ya Later, Gladiator! Romans “borrowed” the idea of gladiatorial games from their (conquered) neighbors, wherein people would fight — sometimes to the death — for the public’s amusement and began holding them back in 264 BC. However, because only 3 of every 5 people made it to their 20s at the time, only about 10% of those bouts involved actual fatalities. Many slaves, prisoners of war, and Christian martyrs fought as gladiators in the arena, but if they were already sentenced to execution, they had no hope of survival. One peculiar law involving gladiators was that they would fight until an injured combatant put down his shield and lifted his index finger to ask for mercy. At that point, it would come to an abrupt halt — though the emperor, if in attendance, would make the final decision.
While ancient Rome may be known for gladiators, grand conquests, and fashionable togas, a surprisingly intricate legal system kept their civilization in line. They had many laws — some familiar, others bizarre — that dictated the everyday lives of millions of Roman citizens, enslaved people, and soldiers across a vast empire. Here are three of the most outrageous and interesting laws Romans enacted as a republic and an empire.
2 • FlattmannLaw.com
Published by Newsletter Pro • www.newsletterpro.com
HELPING KIDS WITH ADHD THRIVE
TAKE A BREAK
SOLUTION
STRATEGIES FOR SUPPORT AND EMPOWERMENT
It’s common for parents of children with attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to sometimes feel frustrated and overwhelmed — and more than a little guilty for having these emotions. First and foremost, it’s perfectly understandable for any parent to experience hurdles as they work to help their child live a happy, healthy life. Although there are unique challenges to raising a youngster with ADHD, every day is an opportunity to take positive steps to help your child learn and grow. Here are four quick tips to help make the rough times a little smoother. Build a balanced routine. Helping your child stay on task with daily routines is critical to managing their ADHD journey. Are they hydrating regularly? Do they follow consistent meal and sleep schedules? Sometimes, staying consistent with the smallest things makes the biggest impact on your child’s well-being. Plan a digital detox. With everything so tech-based these days, there’s a good chance your child spends a lot of time in front of a screen. Set aside time throughout the week to interact with them in a digital-free environment — even if it’s just to chat about their day. This time is meant to help you build a stronger relationship
GREEK CHICKEN AND RICE
with your child, so try to avoid discussing anything that may cause conflict or a distraction.
• 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 onion, diced Ingredients
• 2 cups chicken broth • 1 (14-oz) can diced tomatoes • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice • Juice of 1 lemon • 1/2 cup feta cheese • Salt and pepper, to taste
Find a community of support.
Participating in a support group is a fantastic way to connect with other parents, share concerns, and learn new ways to encourage your child’s growth and success. As a bonus,
• 2 cloves garlic, minced • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed • 1 tsp dried oregano • 1 tsp dried thyme
connecting with parents whose experiences are similar to yours could lead to their children interacting with yours — which may go a long way in helping your child relate to other people and develop their social skills. Tailor your tools. Every child with ADHD is a unique individual with specific needs. A specialized mental health professional can help you craft a solid framework to address obstacles as they arise. Whether you need guidance on stress management or tips on sharpening your communication skills, utilizing the services of an empathetic therapist could provide you with the fresh perspective and game plan you need to help your young one thrive.
Directions 1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened. 2. Add chicken, oregano, and thyme and cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 3–4 minutes. 3. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked through. 4. Stir in the lemon juice and feta cheese, then season with __salt and pepper.
(985) 590-6182 • 3
Published by Newsletter Pro • www.newsletterpro.com
Flattmann Law (985) 590-6182 FlattmannLaw.com 213 W. 21st Ave. Covington, LA 70433 “Quality Is No Accident”
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
Why Family Time Means More at Thanksgiving
Discover Fabergé’s Playful Potato Masterpiece
2
Ridiculous Rules From Ancient Rome
Greek Chicken and Rice
3
Tailoring Your Child’s ADHD Journey
Hollywood Ending in the ‘Rust’ Trial
4
HOLLYWOOD ENDING Alec Baldwin Walks Free After Case Dismissed
contributed to the swift decision. She was sentenced to 18 months in prison but has appealed, and what happened in July in Alec Baldwin’s trial may affect the outcome of that appeal. Hollywood Ending When the third day of Alec Baldwin’s involuntary manslaughter trial in New Mexico began, it became apparent that something was amiss. The defense attorneys had something important to bring to the court’s attention. Assistant District Attorney Erlinda Johnson was absent. As it turned out, she had resigned from the case after allegations that Santa Fe police, in conjunction with Special Prosecutor Kari Morrisey, had conspired to hide evidence from the defense. The evidence in question was a case of ammunition matching those retrieved from the set of “Rust.” The ammunition was given to Santa Fe police before the trial, but it was filed under a separate case number — even though
About three years ago, on Oct. 21, 2021, cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was shot and killed by a live round fired by actor Alec Baldwin on the set of the movie “Rust.” You might believe this would be an open-and-shut manslaughter case. However, just like the scenes Hutchins brilliantly captured on film, this scene was more complex and layered than you may expect. Baldwin’s trial was dismissed just three days after it began, on July 13, 2024. Ironically, but perhaps fittingly, Baldwin’s criminal case came to a dramatic, Hollywood-esque conclusion. Is the armorer to blame? Previously, in May, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer for the film, was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter for her role in the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The jury deliberated for just three hours before passing judgment; evidence revealing Gutierrez-Reed loaded the gun that killed Hutchins likely
Photo: Abhi Suryawanshi
the witness who handed in the evidence claimed it was relevant to the “Rust” trial. In light of these revelations, Santa Fe County District Court Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer dismissed the case with prejudice. Throughout the day, as the camera centered on Hollywood star-turned-defendant Alec Baldwin, viewers were treated to his wide range of emotions: first, annoyance, then sadness, and, finally, tearful exultation. This was his Hollywood ending.
4 • FlattmannLaw.com
Published by Newsletter Pro • www.newsletterpro.com
PLEASE HELP US FINISH 2024 THE RIGHT WAY … PROJECT CHRISTMAS!
Thanks to your amazing support and generosity, we provided Christmas gifts and clothes to 31 children last year! (Overall, St. Tammany Project Christmas provided clothes, gifts, and Christmas dinner for 1,760 children.) You guys are awesome!
Flattmann Law is proud to be helping St. Tammany Project Christmas for the sixth year in a row, and we need your help!
What is St. Tammany Project Christmas? St. Tammany Project Christmas is an established, local, needs-based organization committed to providing the magic of Christmas to children who would otherwise not have one. Applicants must provide documentation demonstrating need and are thoroughly vetted against the lists of other organizations. Every child can request three gifts. Typically, $100–$150 is spent per child. Project Christmas collects the gifts from community partners (like us) and coordinates with the families to help parents provide gifts to their children. More information is available on their website: StProjectChristmas.org
How can I help? By mid-November, we will receive our list of Angels and their gifts . We will then post a list and instructions using SignUpGenius , where you can sign up to supply one or many specific items. We will email you the link and post it on our Facebook page: Grady J. Flattmann, Attorneys at Law, LLC. (Please be sure we have your email address and that you are following our Facebook page). Gifts and clothes may be delivered to our Covington office any time before Monday, Dec. 2. If you are able to drop them off before then, that would be great! CAUTION! THIS IS THE EASIEST CHRISTMAS ANGEL PROJECT TO SUPPORT … EVER!
• Help as much as you want. You will be able to select one item or many.
• No wrapping! Gifts must be in original wrapping, and clothes must be new.
• Shop and click from the comfort of your own home! Have items shipped directly to our office (213 W. 21st Ave., Covington, LA 70433). Just let us know to look out for them.
-Grady
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support throughout the years! I appreciate you.
(985) 590-6182 FlattmannLaw.com
213 W. 21st Ave. Covington, LA 70433
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator