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February 2024 “Quality Is No Accident” A Trip Down Napoleon and St. Charles Avenue VALENTINE’S DAY, MARDI GRAS, AND THE STORIES THEY LEAVE BEHIND FLATTMANN FILES
still a student at Tulane Law School. For a few years in a row, my friends and I would go to every uptown parade in New Orleans, specifically on Napoleon Avenue and St. Charles Avenue! I would get there hours before the first parade to save a spot on the neutral ground, park my folding chairs and cooler, and camp out. Naturally, I’d also go to the nearby drugstore, grab a 20-ounce ice-cold beverage, and buy some Popeye’s chicken! Soon, my friends would all show up, and before I knew it, the floats were passing by. I was also lucky enough to have a friend who lived nearby whose apartment became our go-to private rest spot! Now, though, my New Orleans Mardi Gras days are behind me. While I’m sure it’s still a blast, it’s not exactly the most family-friendly event of the year, and I’m not in college anymore! Covington is getting larger, and their parades are getting bigger and better. We love how our local Mardi Gras parade is family-oriented and doesn’t necessarily have to be an all-day event. While I feel a little bad for not bringing my kids to the Mardi Gras I used to love so much, I learned a few stats that ensured we kept our festivities in Covington. According to Louisiana State University, in 2019, Mardi Gras led to the second-highest number of fatal and injury-causing accidents, amounting to 514 accidents between March 1–5. Yikes! The kids will be in full party mode no matter what since they’re on school break, so I know we’ll have plenty of fun right here in Covington. I will always look back fondly at those New Orleans and high school memories filled with carefree joy and nonstop festivities.
February doesn’t just mean Valentine’s Day in our household; it also marks my wife’s and my first date back in high school. I remember Leigh was sick that day, which threw a wrench in my plans to ask her to be my Valentine! Fortunately, I knew better than to give up or wait another day. I went to K&B Drug Store (ain’t there no more) to make my own Valentine’s Day card asking, “Will you go out with me?”
Luckily for me, she agreed, and we went to our first dance together. Now, I see my daughter going to the same dances! In those days, Leigh tried setting me up with a few of her friends, so now I joke that she finally gave up and just went out with me herself. Of course, this marked the beginning of a relationship that would last through high school, college, law school, kids, and everything life threw our way. I couldn’t be happier she said “yes” all those years ago! Now, I also can’t ignore the fact that Mardi Gras is just one day before Valentine’s Day this year, and it reminds me of all the memories we shared back in our younger years. I also remember when Mardi Gras was the same week as Valentine’s Day when I was
I hope you and your loved ones were able to enjoy Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras to the fullest while also staying safe! -Grady Flattmann
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CRAZY LAWSUITS SHOWCASE STRANGE REALITIES
Weatherman’s Forecast Flub Weather forecasts are often taken with a grain of salt, but not in the case of an Israeli woman who sued a weatherman for getting the forecast wrong. The weatherman predicted sunshine, but it rained, leading the woman to dress inappropriately and catch the flu. She sued for $1,000, citing missed work and medication expenses. Surprisingly, she won the lawsuit against the TV station, setting a precedent that weather predictions might be more legally binding than previously thought. The Victoria’s Secret Mishap A routine shopping trip to a Victoria’s Secret store turned perilous for a customer when a metal piece from a pair of panties she was trying on flew off, striking her in the eye. This incident resulted in a cut cornea, which required a topical steroid treatment. Her lawsuit against the lingerie giant highlighted the potential hazards that can arise from seemingly innocuous products. The case raised questions about product safety and the responsibilities of retailers to ensure their products are free from such defects. These lawsuits showcase the unexpected and often bizarre nature of legal disputes. They remind us that in the world of law, almost anything can become a case, no matter how outlandish it may seem.
Just because the law enforces order doesn’t mean all the cases that get tried aren’t a little silly. Let’s delve into the realm of legal oddities with three particularly strange lawsuits, each bizarre enough to make you wonder if reality is stranger than fiction. Subway’s Knife Sandwich Fiasco In a twist that sounds like a fast-food horror story, a man discovered a 7-inch serrated plastic knife baked into his Subway sandwich. This alarming find led him to file a whopping $1 million lawsuit against Subway. Beyond the shock of the knife, he claimed the sandwich caused him severe stomach aches due to food poisoning. The case was eventually settled, but it remains a reminder of the potential dangers lurking in everyday meals.
Smile and Don’t Run Out of Gas
WEIRD LAWS AROUND THE GLOBE
Germany’s Run-Out-of-Gas Ban The idea of a highway where drivers can go as fast as they want is a reality on Germany’s Autobahn. But it comes with a peculiar (yet understandable) rule: No matter what you do, don’t run out of gas! Not only would it be a safety issue, but you’ll also face a hefty fine. So, fill up before heading out. Milan’s Smile Mandate In Milan, Italy, they take fashion seriously. Smiles are at the top of their list, too. An old, never-repealed city regulation from Austro-Hungarian times mandates that everyone must smile at all times, barring those attending funerals or spending time in a hospital. This unique law, originating from an idea by Luigi Fabio, is aimed at ensuring a cheerful public demeanor. So, when in Milan, keep smiling — it’s not just good manners, it’s the law! Egypt’s Belly Dancing Decree In Egypt, the art of belly dancing is a cultural treasure and is also subject to gender-specific legislation. Here, men are prohibited from
Let’s embark on a journey around the globe to uncover some of the most unique laws on the books, from Arizona to Egypt. Protecting plants and birds, enforcing public cheerfulness, and preserving cultural dance traditions are among some of the examples of unique legislation we’ve uncovered. Arizona’s Cactus Custodians In Arizona, the local cactuses are not just plants; they’re legally protected entities. It behooves everyone to avoid harming these prickly residents, as you could face up to 25 years in prison. This law serves as a stern reminder to treat nature with respect. The bottom line to stay out of jail? Don’t cut the cactus. Period. Australia’s Homing Pigeon Heroes Down under, harming a homing pigeon isn’t just frowned upon; it’s illegal. These birds, known for their remarkable navigation skills, are protected by a law that imposes a fine of $250 for causing them harm. It’s a testament to Australia’s reverence for its avian inhabitants.
performing this traditional dance. This law highlights the unique cultural and historical significance of belly dancing in Egypt and the gender roles traditionally associated with this mesmerizing art form. These laws are a testament to the diverse nature of legal systems across the world. They remind us that the rule of law can sometimes be as varied as the cultures they represent.
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TAKE A BREAK
When you hear the word “conflict” in the context of kids, you might think of schoolyard bullies or having to ground your kid. However, children have their own disputes, ranging from toddler tussles over toys to digital duels between pre-teens. While they are undeniably challenging, conflicts provide kids the chance to learn life lessons. They encourage young minds to put on their detective hats, explore new perspectives, reevaluate old ideas, and even cement the bonds of friendship. Use the following strategies to equip your child with the superpower of conflict resolution. Teach Kids to Navigate Conflict A PARENT’S GUIDE TO PEACE
SOLUTION
Empower Peacemakers Conflict resolution skills are the compass that guides kids through the maze of life’s disputes. Here’s a map to help your child navigate these tricky waters: • Pause and Reflect: Teach your child the art of taking a deep
breath and calming the storm within. Reacting in a frenzy of anger is like tossing gasoline on a fire.
• Speak Your Truth: Encourage your child to explain their side of the story in clear and simple words. Understanding each other’s viewpoints is key to conflict resolution. • Get Creative: Foster their inner Picasso of problem- solving. Encourage them to brainstorm solutions that cater to everyone’s wishes, like a culinary mastermind crafting the perfect dish. • Choose Respect: Teach your child the importance of treating others kindly, even when disagreements threaten to capsize the boat. These steps help kids patch up the current squabbles and cultivate emotional intelligence — a shield against future conflicts and a bridge to tolerance. Foster ‘fun’ conflict-resolution experiences in the home. Parents wield the magic wand in conflict resolution play. Organize family activities that mimic real-life conflict scenarios, like board games with rules that spark disagreements. These friendly bouts teach your child the art of keeping their cool under pressure. And don’t forget about the power of make- believe! Encourage your child to stage a conflict resolution drama. It’s not just fun; it’s a crash course in diplomacy. Remember, every successful conflict your child conquers will give them confidence. By imparting these skills early on, you gift them tools for a lifetime of harmonious interactions, both personally and professionally. So, let’s embark on this valuable conflict resolution journey together — the world will be a better place.
PUFF PASTRY BERRY HEARTS Inspired by Weelicious.com
Ingredients
• 1 tsp powdered sugar • 1/2 cup fresh raspberries (or berries of your choice)
• 1 package frozen puff pastry, defrosted • 1 cup heavy cream
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Unfold the puff pastry and use a heart- shaped cookie cutter to cut into heart shapes. 2. On a baking sheet, place puff pastry hearts and bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown. 3. In a standing mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes. Add the powdered sugar and beat on high for 30 more seconds or until thick and fluffy. 4. Remove hearts from the oven and allow to cool completely. Slice each heart in half between pastry layers to create 2 hearts. Top the bottom half with whipped cream and berries, and place the other half on top to form a sandwich.
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Flattmann Law (985) 590-6182 FlattmannLaw.com 213 W. 21st Ave. Covington, LA 70433 “Quality Is No Accident”
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Memories of High School Valentines and Mardi Gras Mayhem
1
Bizarre Legal Battles
2
Unique Laws Around the World
Puff Pastry Berry Hearts
3
Teach Kids to Resolve Their Own Arguments!
Seeds, Science, and Surprises in Medicine
4
FROM SEEDS TO SCIENCE HISTORY OF PREGNANCY TESTING
and barley seeds, an intriguing method that modern research has shown to be surprisingly accurate, with a 70% success rate. If barley grew, it indicated a male child; wheat signified a female. Across different cultures, unique approaches emerged. The Greeks, influenced by Hippocrates, developed diagnostic theories based on the four bodily humors. In India, ancient Ayurvedic texts detailed pulse examination techniques for various conditions, including pregnancy, showcasing remarkable observational abilities and a deep understanding of the human body. The Middle Ages saw a curious amalgamation of superstition and the beginnings of scientific inquiry. “Piss prophets” examined urine for its color and clarity, practices that were precursors to today’s urinalysis.
From ancient times, human ingenuity has been pivotal in unraveling medical mysteries, and pregnancy testing is a particularly fascinating example. In Egypt, around 1350 BCE, pregnancy testing blended mysticism and early science. Women would urinate on wheat
A significant advancement came in the 20th century with the discovery of the hormone hCG. This breakthrough led to the first reliable home pregnancy tests in the 1960s, marking a dramatic shift from rudimentary ancient methods and offering greater accuracy and privacy. This journey from ancient seed tests to sophisticated modern diagnostics illustrates the evolution in our understanding of the human body. Those early tests laid the groundwork for the reliable techniques we use today, inspiring us to continue improving our medical knowledge and practices.
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