Take a look at our March newsletter!
For The Ambitious Advocate BRIEF RECESS
MARCH 2024
FROM THE LAW OFFICES OF J. PRICE MCNAMARA
How Our Property and Our Family Grew in the Blink of an Eye New ‘Grandparents’ to 4 Goats and 1 Human!
similar, very rural wooded property with a house, barn, and connected fenced pastures on the Tickfaw River. The property is located about an hour north of Baton Rouge in Greensburg, near Kentwood, in the middle of nowhere. It had served as their favorite family gathering place for their kids and grandkids for the last 20 years. The best thing about it was that the sale “had to” include everything. They wanted just to walk away. It included all furniture, tractor, mower, log-splitter, side-by-side, and every imaginable farm tool and implement. That was all fine, but I was skeptical about taking on the four goats that stared at us like we were crazy and the two donkeys that screeched at us full-blast whenever we or our dogs came anywhere near them. They were all included, too. But we already had two mares to move out there, Blaire and her daughter Sienna, so we decided we could figure out goats and donkeys, too. After all, it’s only six new farm animals we knew nothing about. No instruction book, but what could go wrong? A few hours of YouTube Academy should do it. We learned that people keep donkeys to protect livestock from coyotes. Donkeys will instinctively do their best to kill them. And the same goes for
dogs. A canine is a canine to them. YouTube it. It’s unbelievable! They’ll stomp and kick dogs and pick them up by the neck with their teeth and fling them in the air like rag dolls. But the donkeys seem to like us and follow us around. Turns out all their screeching just means they want a snack and have their ears scratched. But we keep the dogs, Colt and Rye, out of the fenced pasture. And they think they want in so bad! As for the goats, the first big challenge so far was when a Greensburg neighbor called me on a Tuesday morning before a Zoom mediation and said, “Your goats are walkin’ down the highway!” A tree had fallen on the barbed wire fence surrounding the pasture, making a hole big enough for goats, but thankfully not horses or donkeys.
Since before we were married, Susan and I have spent at least half of our weekends at “the Farm,” our beautiful wooded acreage along the Amite River with a 30-acre lake, a log cabin, fenced pastures, and a barn north of Baton Rouge in Greenwell Springs. It was her family’s property where she grew up riding horses and helping her father with property maintenance and constant cattle-raising chores. We practically raised our children out there as well, bass fishing in the lake, camping, catfishing on the Amite River, staying warm at bonfires, and hunting deer, turkey, squirrel, rabbit, wood ducks, and all that good stuff! Of course, we also had to tend to the nonstop trail clearing and property maintenance. It’s a lot of hard work, but it’s what our family loves to do! Our dream has always been to have a similar place of “our own” where our family could gather and share similar experiences with our kids and grandchildren, along with the hard work that comes with it all. We wanted our own “generational” property. So, we knew it was “meant to be” last August when we learned the parents of an old friend were selling a very
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Does your office turn away calls about “long-term disability insurance” claim denials because you don’t handle administrative appeals or “ERISA litigation” in federal court? We want to hear from you! We happily share fees on referred ERISA long-term disability, life insurance, and accidental death insurance denial cases. Send us an email at BriefRecess@jpricemcnamara.com or call (225) 201-8311 to start the referral process! WE VALUE YOUR REFERRALS! now adorns everything from pub walls to parade floats, a verdant reminder of Ireland’s history, spirituality, and St. Patrick’s ingenuity. So, when you don that shamrock-laden attire on March 17, remember, you’re not just participating in a global celebration of Irish culture; you’re wearing a piece of history, a botanical testament to the power of good storytelling, and even better symbolism. The Shamrock: St. Patrick’s Day’s Symbol for Faith and Wit The shamrock, a sprightly green sprig synonymous with St. Patrick’s Day, carries more than just a hue that screams, “Kiss me, I’m Irish!” This trifoliate plant, deeply rooted in Irish culture, owes its iconic status to St. Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint, and a penchant for clever metaphors. Legend has it that St. Patrick, in his quest to convert the pagan Irish to Christianity, faced the daunting task of explaining the Holy Trinity — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — to a population more accustomed to druid priests than crosses. In a stroke of divine inspiration (or perhaps just savvy marketing), Patrick plucked a shamrock from the ground. Using its three leaves on a single stem, he illustrated the concept of three persons in one God, simplifying a complex theology into a digestible and conveniently indigenous symbol. The shamrock became more than a plant; it transformed into a theological emblem, a tool of conversion, and a symbol of Irish identity and pride. Fast-forward to modern St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, and the shamrock ST. PATRICK’S DAY SYMBO The Story of Jim’s Battle Again
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Sometimes, heroes come sans cape but with fur, paws, and a keen sense of smell. We’ve heard the stories of police dogs, bomb-sniffing dogs, and the German shepherd Trakr, who found the last survivor on 9/11. But even untrained pets and strays can be heroic. Meet Jack, a stray dog in New York City known for scavenging through dumpsters. One early morning, his routine search for food took a life-saving turn. Behind one of these dumpsters was a baby, wrapped in a blanket, vulnerable and alone. Instinctively and with remarkable gentleness, Jack picked up the baby in the blanket with his teeth. Whether guided by fate, an extraordinary sense of purpose, or just because it was the closest open business, Jack took the baby to the hospital. The nurses tried to shoo him away when he first ran through the sliding doors. One nurse, noticing the bundle in the dog’s mouth, was able to get close enough to retrieve the baby. Thanks to Jack, the baby received life-saving medical attention. In the 1920s, the remote town of Nome, Alaska, grappled with a deadly diphtheria epidemic. Children were dying, and the icebound city was inaccessible by plane or boat in the winter. The only way to deliver the needed antitoxins was by dog sled on the Iditarod Trail. Balto, a Siberian husky, received most of the fame, but Togo, another husky, led the team across the most treacherous part of the journey. These dogs delivered life- saving medicine in time and saved many of Nome’s children. Cats can be heroes, too, as proved by a calico cat who lived up to his name in the most unexpected way. One night in Mississippi, intruders were trying to break into a home. The house cat, Bandit, sensed the danger and sprang into action. The cat’s relentless scratching and tugging at its owner’s blanket finally woke him. Then Bandit led his human downstairs to discover the attempted break-in, which also scared away the intruders. Bandit proved that size and species don’t matter in heroism. In moments of crisis, these four-legged heroes rose to the occasion, not for glory or reward but out of pure love and loyalty. They are potent reminders of the courage and selflessness that animals are capable of. JACK, TOGO, AND BANDIT WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND 3 FURRY HEROES
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(Trust Me — A McNamara Knows Irish Lore!) OLS EXPLAINED The Leprechaun: The Mischief and Magic of St. Patrick’s Day In the pantheon of St. Patrick’s Day symbols, the leprechaun holds a place of honor, embodying the enchantment and whimsy of Irish folklore. These miniature, bearded figures, clad in coats of green and buckled shoes, are said to spend their days crafting shoes and hoarding pots of gold at rainbows’ ends. But why do these mischievous sprites symbolize St. Patrick’s Day, a celebration steeped in religious tradition and national pride? nst Unjust Benefit Termination
FROM JAZZ LEGENDS TO COLORFUL FESTIVITIES Spring Into Baton Rouge! Baton Rouge is finally beginning to bloom this month! Spring is set to bring countless outdoor events to get you and your loved ones back outside and under the sun. Baton Rouge, Louisiana, a city known for its vibrant culture and rich history, is hosting a series of local events this March that promise to entertain and enlighten residents and visitors alike. From celebrating the legacy of jazz to embracing Holi’s
The leprechaun’s association with St. Patrick’s Day springs from the depths of Irish mythology, where they are considered a type of fairy in the Aos Sí, a supernatural race imbued with magical powers. Over centuries, as Christianity spread across Ireland, the leprechaun evolved from a symbol of the island’s pagan past to an emblem of its cultural identity, embodying the Irish love of storytelling and the belief in the unseen.
colorful traditions and exploring nature’s beauty through birding, there’s something for everyone in Baton Rouge this spring.
River City Jazz Masters — Blue Note Records 85th Anniversary Celebration
St. Patrick’s Day, a holiday that commemorates the arrival of Christianity in Ireland and celebrates Irish culture, embraces the leprechaun as a nod to the country’s rich folklore. The leprechaun’s playful antics and elusive treasure capture the imagination, adding a layer of fantasy and fun to the festivities. On March 17, leprechauns leap into the limelight, reminding us of the joy in tradition, the sparkle of magic, and the enduring charm of Ireland’s mythical past.
First on the calendar is the River City Jazz Masters — Blue Note Records 85th Anniversary Celebration. On March 6, from 7:30–9 p.m., the celebration will take place at Manship Theatre, offering a night filled with
performances that pay homage to the rich history and impact of Blue Note Records. This event is a must-attend for jazz enthusiasts and music lovers! Blue Note Records, a symbol of excellence in the jazz music industry, has been home to some of the most pioneering artists in the genre. Holi Festival Celebration in Downtown Baton Rouge Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and joyful spirit of the Holi Festival Celebration in Downtown Baton Rouge. Known as the Festival of Colors, Holi is a traditional Hindu festival that marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. On March 9, from 2–5 p.m., anyone can gather, throw colored powders, and enjoy music, dance, and delicious food. It’s a day filled with laughter, fun, and unity, reflecting the diverse community spirit of Baton Rouge! Birding at Burden Lastly, Birding at Burden offers a serene escape for those who prefer tranquility and nature. The LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden, a haven of natural beauty within the city, invites bird enthusiasts and families to explore its lush landscapes while spotting local and migratory birds. This monthly event is perfect for anyone looking to connect with nature, learn more about bird species native to Louisiana, and enjoy a peaceful day outdoors. March in Baton Rouge is bursting with activities that cater to a wide array of interests. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado, a lover of cultural festivals, or a nature enthusiast, Baton Rouge offers unique experiences celebrating the beauty of music, culture, and nature!
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Also, YouTube Academy said nothing about goat mating, so we were shocked when six new farm animals became 10 new animals six months later! Yep, they mate. The original four goats were one male, Courage; and three female, Caramella, Mary, and Fernanda. (The donkeys are Margara and Maria, in case you’re wondering. We named them after real people we knew long ago because it makes us laugh, but we can’t say who because they might get mad
at us.) But back to Mary and Fernanda — they each had two kids. And Caramella looks pregnant. We’ll see.
But the best of the best? My daughter recently told us we’ll be grandparents of a human baby, too — let the family farm tradition continue!
Ever looking for an idea to take your kids or grandkids on a simple, entertaining outing? This is an open invitation to swing by for a petting zoo experience and a ride through the trails to the Tickfaw. Seriously! Just email me at Price@jpricemcnamara.com to make sure we’ll be there. Susan and I are pretty much there every weekend all weekend! Come On Down to the Farm!
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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News From the (New) Funny Farm!
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3 Pet Hero Stories
St. Patrick’s Day Symbols Explained
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A March to Remember in Baton Rouge
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Enjoy Better Health With Fasting
• It promotes blood sugar control by lowering insulin sensitivity — so fasting decreases the chances of getting Type 2 diabetes. • Fasting reduces acute inflammation and improves chronic inflammation, which has serious consequences for heart disease, cancer, and other serious conditions. • It improves heart health by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, decreasing the odds of developing heart disease. • Regular fasting may boost brain function and prevent neurodegenerative disorders. • Fasting helps with weight loss by increasing growth hormone secretion. Types of Fasting Before engaging in any fasting routine, check with your health practitioner to make sure you are making a choice that aligns with your continued health and wellness. There are many types of fasting, including: • Juice Fasts — You only drink fruit or vegetable juices for the duration of the fast. • Water Fasts — You can only drink water for a regulated period of time. • Intermittent Fasting — This technique restricts food intake, wholly or partially, throughout the day or for part of the week. You can eat as you usually would during the off-hours or days. Fasting, a healthy diet, and exercise offer many health benefits and help keep your body and mind spry as you age. Talk to your doctor to see if fasting could be a reasonable part of your life plan.
Fasting for Vitality Take Charge of Your Health
Fasting is a popular diet trend at the moment. You can find videos all over the internet about the benefits people have had while engaging in fasting. Fortunately, unlike many fad diets, the fasting trend is positive, as research has shown it offers many health benefits. Here’s a look at a few of those. Why should you fast? When the body stops getting calories, you start burning fat reserves in your body. This fat is sent to the liver and converted into acids called ketones. Ketones are used as fuel to run your body and brain like a backup generator when it doesn’t have food. This process is called ketosis and happens when you fast. Besides burning fat, fasting offers other benefits.
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