The St. Tammany Advocate 03-26-2015

Page 1

EASTER EGG HUNTS READY TO ROLL ä PAGE 6G

THE ST.TAMMANY

ADVOCATE

COVINGTON • FOLSOM • LACOMBE • MADISONVILLE • MANDEVILLE • SLIDELL

1G

THURSDAY MARCH 26, 2015 H

THENEWORLEANSADVOCATE.COM

TAKE AWALK

Sharon Edwards TAMMANY TIMES SEDWARDS@THEADVOCATE.COM

Crawfish Cook-Off to benefit hospice

If somebody says “come on over, we’re boiling crawfish,” my answer is — “I’m on my way.” That’s what I call living the good life in Louisiana. Now, one of the largest community crawfish boils in St. Tammany Parish has helped create a home for those leaving this life. Hospice Foundation of the South’s Hospice House was built by proceeds from the annual Crawfish Cook-Off. The 12th annual Crawfish Cook-Off will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 18 at Fritchie Park in Slidell. There will be all-you-can eat crawfish prepared by more than 60 teams, plus live music by the TopCats, Category 6 and Rockin’ Dopsie. Beverages and other foods will be available for purchase. Tickets are $30 in advance, and $10 for those 10 and under. All proceeds go to sustain the Hospice House, which in March marked the anniversary of opening its doors to those in need. “In the past year we have been able to provide a serene, dignified environment for 36 patients and their families for their final days,” reads a statement on the organization’s website. Participating hospice programs recommend people who, because of circumstances in their lives, need a place to live while dying. They are provided 24-hour care, often at no cost. The home has three bedrooms, and each room has its own bathroom and a screened-in porch area. There is a living room for families to congregate. There is also a kitchen and dining room for residents and family members to have a special occasion, or just a dinner together. Volunteers help with cooking meals, light housekeeping, laundry, mowing grass, weeding flower beds, visiting residents and running errands. At the Crawfish-Cook-Off, teams will prepare the spicy crustaceans using their favorite, and sometimes secret, mix of ingredients. Often moms, grandmothers and others are on site to make sure the crawfish come out just right. A lot of work goes into the presentation as well. Teams go all out with costumes and decorate their tents with a theme. They compete for the prizes and bragging rights. But many find their greatest joy in throwing the biggest crawfish boil in Tammany — to celebrate a good life. Tickets to the Crawfish Cook-Off 2015 went on sale this month and can be purchased at any St. Tammany Parish Whitney Bank branch. For sponsorship opportunities or information, call Hospice Foundation Director Kathy Busco at (985) 6435470 or visit www. hospicefoundationofthe south.org. Sharon Edwards is community news editor of the New Orleans Advocate.

More than 3,000 turned out for the American Heart Association’s annual Heart Walk on Saturday at Fontainebleau State Park near Mandeville. The event raises Roddric Johnson, left, Brittany Scott and Amris Willis, funds to prevent heart disease and stroke of Ochsner Northshore, head down the road during the while promoting heart-healthy activity. American Heart Association’s annual Heart Walk.

Advocate staff photos by SCOTT THRELKELD

Participants fill the roadway during the American Heart Association’s annual Heart Walk on Saturday at Fontainebleau State Park near Mandeville. Matalie Constant, 3, hugs her mama, Jessica Constant, during warm-up exercises during the American Heart Association’s annual Heart Walk.

Olivia Prouhet, 4, reaches up to feel the wind as she rides atop the shoulders of her father, Jeremy Prouhet.

Preservationist instills life in historic cemetery “As you read the stones and Steps away from the Tchefuncte River, on the sharp learn about the people and curve of Main Street, is the their accomplishments, hisMadisonville Cemetery. Its tory begins to unfold and mysoldest burial record dates to teries solved,” Vacante said. “You can see when epidemics 1819. A plaque dedication to rec- and tragedy wiped out entire families.” ognize the Madisonville An old survey led VaCemetery as historic will cante to a patch of grass be held at 1 p.m. Friday in the cemetery after by the Daughters of the researching the history American Colonist. of Joseph H. Hawkins, Through the years, responsible for fundneglect and overgrown ing and support that led weeds have consumed to the colonization of many markers. It is beTexas. lieved past floods may IN “I started pulling have washed away some PROFILE grass and loose dirt of the gravesites as well. DEBORAH away with my glove, Iris Lulu Vacante and BURST and 3 inches down, I several others have come together to clean and hit a slab and saw the name Joseph,” Vacante said. “The help maintain the cemetery. Sitting under the cool breeze thought that the final resting of an oak tree, Vacante opens place of this important man a thick, 3-inch binder full of was almost lost forever was research material with a page mind-blowing. She then noticed several dedicated to each grave, with details of the deceased’s life graves were void of names and death. She believes the his- while others lay buried under tory of the town begins in the other graves. “These people were here cemetery.

St.Tammany Children’s Museum coming together

BY SARA PAGONES

spagones@theadvocate.com A giant globe that shows children the forces at work on their planet, an underwater exploration robot that they can control and a towering structure for climbing that rivals any playground — these are a few of the enticing exhibits that the Children’s Museum of St. Tammany hopes to create in a 30,000-square-foot educational attraction that will be part of a nascent cultural arts district along the Tchefuncte River. Plans for the museum, which was first conceived in 2004, have taken on a more definitive shape with the completion of exhibit concepts by Argyle Design Inc., a Brooklyn-based firm that has done the same ä Museum type of work fundraiser for the Chil- highlight of dren’s Muse- season. 4G um of Houston and the Boston Children’s Museum, among others. The museum’s board of trustees hired Argyle last year. Earlier this month, Cheryl Bartholow and Michael Joyce, of Argyle, unveiled ideas for exhibits to fire the imaginations of children from toddlers to 12-year-olds. Argyle made several trips to St. Tammany to reach this point, interviewing students at 14 schools as well as educators, parents and museum board members and sponsors to gain insights into what they want in the museum. Their slide show of artist renderings depicts a light-filled structure that provides clear sight lines throughout so families can keep an eye on their children while they explore what Argyle is calling the How and Why Galleries and participate in myriad hands-on activities. The exhibits have a definite St. Tammany flair, with a history house that tells the story of the parish from the point of view of a family in the 1920s holding a reunion and a fishäSee MUSEUM, page 2G

Aces Against Aneurysms Tournament expanding

and has been a resident of the north shore for more than 25 years. Although she traveled frequently as a child, she often visited Madisonville in the summer during the 1960s and ’70s. “I loved digging up old bot-

Becky Winchell has said for years she’d like to expand the Aces Against Aneurysms Tennis Tournament which is held each April at Pelican Athletic Club, 1170 Meadowbrook Blvd. in Mandeville. For the sixth annual event, it appears that’s REC & happening. LEISURE Winchell, the ANDREW tournament CANULETTE founder and an aneurysm survivor herself, said a men’s bracket will be added to the wildly popular women’s event this year. Though a “test run” of sorts for the men was held in 2014, she expects the 2015 men’s tournament to fill quick-

äSee CEMETERY, page 2G

äSee ACES, page 2G

Advocate photo by DEBORAH BURST

Iris Lulu Vacante poses next to the gravesite she uncovered in the Madisonville Cemetery. She discovered it is the burial site of Joseph Hawkins, a Madisonville resident during the 19th century and major contributor to the colonization of Texas. just like so many of us, trying to make a difference in this town, and they are being lost or forgotten,” she said. “Important people like Brig. Gen. David Bannister Morgan, who was second in command under Andrew Jackson.” Vacante has a 30-year career in early childhood education

2G n Thursday, March 26, 2015 n theadvocate.com n

“ … We definitely expect to fill up both men and women. We can take about 120 players in each tournament. That’s the max, and there’s usually a waiting list for the women’s tournament.” BECKY WINCHELL, Aces Against Aneurysm Tennis Tournament founder

ACES

Continued from page 2G ly, as the women’s event has done since it began. The women will play Monday, April 13. The men will play Sunday, April 26. Both are doubles tournaments and offer several brackets to accommodate players of all abilities. “This year, we have Bob Kemp, an avid tennis player, promoting the men’s tournament,” Winchell said. “So we definitely expect to fill up both men and women. We can take about 120 players in each tournament. That’s the max, and there’s usually a waiting list for the women’s tournament” as they get closer to the event. Winchell, 48, suffered an aneurysm six years ago. A mother of seven, she almost immediately made it her goal to educate the public about aneurysms after her brush with death. Just as quickly, the “Aces” tournament was in planning stages. In following years, as the event grew in size and stature, Winchell founded the nonprofit Brain Support NOLA organization to administer the funds raised. All money raised stays local, with approximately $8,000 going to research at the LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans Department of Neurosurgery in 2014. This year’s total will help produce informative brochures for patients recovering from an aneurysm. “It’s a terrifying experience to wake up in the hospital after having surgery for a brain aneurysm,” Winchell said. “I can’t stress enough how reassuring it is to have helpful information to provide answers to the many questions patients and their families have.” An aneurysm is an abnormal widening of an artery. A bulging sac forms and can burst, resulting in massive bleeding. People who have an aneurysm typically are born with them, and it sometimes can take decades before causing a problem, if ever. An estimated 6 million people (approximately 1 in 50) in the U.S. have an unruptured aneurysm. A team of approximately 10 persons sits on the Aces Against Aneurysm committee, Winchell said. She noted that Cindy Kemp, Bob Kemp’s wife and another aneurysm survivor, is on the committee and helping organize the women’s tournament. Both men’s and women’s events are first-class affairs. A chef will cook breakfast and lunch courtside for players. There will be door prizes, raffles, beverages and more. The cost to enter is a $50 per person. While a lot of work goes into planning Aces Against Aneurysms, Winchell said the effort is “fulfilling.” “It’s extremely gratifying when someone comes to me and says I had an aneurysm or a loved one had an aneurysm and this tournament has helped me,” Winchell said. “It makes me happy that we can help in some way.” Registration for the women’s event should be completed by April 8, and the men’s bracket will close April 17. Both, however, could be filled earlier than those dates, so early registration is encouraged. To register, email Pelican Athletic Club’s Barbara Fisher at bfisher@thepac. com. For information on Aces Against Aneurysms and the nonprofit’s mission, its beneficiaries, and more, visit www.brainsupportnola. com. Andrew Canulette covers recreation and leisure activities for the St. Tammany Advocate. To reach him, email acanulette@charter. net.

MUSEUM

Continued from page 1G ing boat and dock that is part of a roleplaying area. The museum will be a key component of a planned Cultural Arts District located next to the Colonial/Pinnacle retail property at the La. 21/Interstate 12 corridor and the Tchefuncte River. The museum will take advantage of its setting near the river with a screened nature porch and outdoor walking trails. A nature swap will allow kids to bring in specimens, learn about them and trade for other items. Space for traveling exhibits will ensure that visitors will see something new every time they enter the museum. A cafe and store will help generate revenue, and plans include party rooms. The building itself will cost about $67 million to construct, Bartholow told the audience, and creating the exhibits and outfitting the building will cost another $67 million. Besides large annual fundraisers like the recently held Celebration and Black and Gold Day, where schoolchildren pay $1 to don black and gold, the museum is actively seeking sponsors for the mu-

Advocate staff photo by SARA PAGONES

Michael Joyce, of Brooklyn-based Argyle Design Inc., presents artist renderings to a St. Tammany audience of his firm’s concepts for exhibits at the Children’s Museum of St. Tammany. Argyle made several trips to St. Tammany Parish, interviewing parents, children and educators, to come up with ideas for the museum, which is planned for the St. Tammany Parish Cultural Arts District off Interstate 12 and La. 21. seum and its individual exhibits. Sponsoring an exhibit will mean helping to pay for its upkeep. Young visitors are notoriously hard on children’s museums, Bartholow noted, saying that upkeep is a consideration when an exhibit is touched “by hundreds of hands a day.’’ So far, four exhibit sponsors are on

board: Check Point Pumps and Systems, which is sponsoring the globe exhibit; United Way Women’s Leadership Commission, which will sponsor an early childhood exhibit; Franco’s, which will sponsor an exhibit that provides physical activity; and Dunavant Wealth Strategies, which will sponsor an exhibit that

has a financial component. Lisa Barnett, president of the board of trustees for the museum, called the exhibit concept work a major step forward in the museum’s development. Follow Sara Pagones on Twitter @spagonesadvocat.

Computer association offers classes in Slidell Advocate staff report The St. Tammany Computer Association offers beginner and intermediate classes at the St. Tammany Parish Military Road Complex, formerly called the Levee Board Building, at 61134 N. Military Road, Slidell. These classes have proved especially valuable to senior citizens who finished their education before computer classes were being taught in public Photo provided by St. Tammany Computer Association school. One-on-one sessions for people new to computers are Representatives of St. Tammany Fire District No. 1 made a available, as are special inter- presentation on ‘Vials of Life’ at a recent meeting of the St. est groups in genealogy and Tammany Computer Association. The vials contain informaWeb-building. Students with tion that would be useful to emergency responders in an laptops should bring them, but emergency and are available at fire stations. From left are fire they are not necessary. prevention Officer David Berns, Stan Worchel and chief of fire The classes are free to asso- prevention Chad Duffaut. ciation members who have paid their annual dues of $20. People interested may come as a guest For information, visit www. information@gmail.com or call twice before deciding to join. stcaug.org, email STCA. Shirley at (985) 640-2719.

CEMETERY

Continued from page 1G

They are working on an ap- St. Tammany Parish. To reach plication to add the cemetery her, email deborahburst@ to the National Registry of His- gmail.com. toric Places in Louisiana. They are waiting for a representative from Baton Rouge to look at the cemetery and make a decision. Until then, Vacante is working on a book featuring the history of the cemetery, and she has a wish list. She would like a historical marker for Hawkins and Morgan, along with proper recognition to a past cemetery caregiver by the name of “Tweet” Baham. “But most of all, we need someone to continue our work, research and maintenance,” she said, admitting they’re not getting any younger. “We need a long-term solution.” People interested can meet at the cemetery on the fourth Saturday of each month and join the Keep Madisonville Beautiful group and members of the Old Madisonville Cemetery and Historic/Vintage Madisonville Photo Group. To contact Keep Madisonville Beautiful, email keepmadisonville beautiful@gmail.com or to contact Vacante, email vacante467@bellsouth.net.

tles in the Jahncke Shipyard, playing guitar and writing,” she said. “We used the Tchefuncte lighthouse keeper cottage as a camp when my dad was dredging the ice house canal.” Looking out over the cemetery, she recalls her first passion for preservation when the Seven Oaks Plantation was torn down. Her father’s aunt was born on the plantation. “I was 16, and I thought it was such a shame to let something so historic fall to a state of disrepair,” she said, adding that she always was intrigued with historic buildings and vintage photos. “From a young age, I always looked at places and wondered what it looked like a hundred years ago.” The dedicated group has gained several volunteers, including Sara Trepagnier, who has begun an Adopt-A-Grave project in which a family or individual can adopt and care for a specific grave. “We are trying to identify and re-mark graves that have lost their headstones,” Vacante said. “I’m working with Sarah Deborah Burst writes about Trepagnier on making a new people behind the scenes of organizations and events in survey of the cemetery.”

Tuesday, April 7, 2015 at 6:30pm

Nancy Gravel, D.C., B.S., BCIA

n theadvocate.com n Thursday, March 26, 2015 n 3G

Mandeville Kiwanis members welcome speaker on area tourism

Abita Springs park holds British soccer camp

Advocate staff report

A weeklong British soccer camp will take place the week of May 25-29 at Charlie Finn Memorial Park, 22517 La. 36, Abita Springs. The soccer camp is sponsored by St. Tammany Recreation District 11 and conducted by Challenger Sports, which will hold more than 4,000 soccer programs this year involving more than 225,000 players between the ages of 3 and 19. Each child will be coached by a member of Challenger’s team of 1,200 British soccer coaches. A daily tournament, the Camp World Cup, will teach the players about life, customs and traditions of other countries. The campers are asked to make up chants, wear the team colors of their country, bring flags and learn about the country they represent. First Kicks programs for children ages 3 and 4 will be from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., at a cost of $83. Mini Soccer for children ages 5 and 6 will be from 10:30 a.m. to noon and from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. for $97. A half-day program for children ages 7-10 will be from 9 a.m. to noon for $130. A half-day program for ages 11-16 will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. for $130. For team camp rates, contact Nick Rundell at (469) 7132737 or nrundell@challenger sports.com. To register, visit www.challengersports.com.

SPORTS BRIEFS SENIOR OLYMPICS: The St. Tammany Parish Senior Olympic Games will take place from April 12-June 27 and are open to everyone 50 and older. Events include weightlifting, April 12; mixed tennis, April 18; track and field, April 25; tennis singles and doubles, May 2; pickleball, May 9; cycling, May 16; and volleyball, June 27. For information or to obtain a registration form, call the St. Tammany Council on Aging at (985) 892-0377 or send email to events@CoastSeniors.org. BIG BRANCH CANOE TRIPS: March 28, April 4, May 16 and May 23. The guided canoe program “Paddling Thru Time: People & Louisiana’s Wetlands� explores how humans have interacted with and changed the land over time. Individuals must register and availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. Designed for adults, but children 5 and older may participate. Those 10 and older may paddle. Trips are 2-3 hours of paddling. Cost is $10 for paddlers, $5 children 5-9. Register from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday-Saturday at the Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center, 61389 La. 434, Lacombe, or visit fws.gov/refuge/Big_ Branch_Marsh. NORTHLAKE NATURE CENTER: at For information and to register for programs at the center at 23135 U.S. 190, Mandeville, call (985) 626-1238 or send email to Rue@northlakenature.org. Upcoming programs include: BIRD WATCHING: Local guides will point out a variety of birds migrating through the Mississippi River flyway at 8 a.m. Sunday at Northlake Nature Center, 23135 U.S. 190, Mandeville. A birding checklist and information on birding for beginners will be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars, telescopes and cameras. Free for members, $5 for others BACK TRAILS HIKE: A hike on some of the 8 miles of trails at the Northlake Nature Center will begin at 8 a.m. Monday, followed by a light breakfast. Free for members and $5 for others. GREAT LOUISIANA BIRDFEST APRIL 10-12: Birdfest includes birding trips, workshops, photo opportunities and hospitality. Northlake Nature Center organizes the annual outings for birders at a time when hundreds of thousands of migratory birds are arriving at Louisiana’s coast from Mexico and South America. BirdFest trips will visit varied habitat including swamps, wetlands, pine savanna and hardwoods of southeast Louisiana. In past years, birders have spotted between 125 and 150 species during BirdFest. For a birding checklist, visit losbird.org/ checklist.htm. To register, visit northlakenature.org. GET LUCKY! GOLF TOURNAMENT: The St. Tammany Hospital Foundation’s fourth annual Get Lucky! golf tournament, to be held April 17 at Tchefuncta Country Club in Covington. Sign up by April 3 to compete with 25 teams of corporate foursomes and individual players. Contact Nicole Suhre at (985) 898-4171 or nsuhre@ stph.org, or visit sthfoundation.org/golf.

Photo provided by Mandeville Kiwanis

Photo provided by Cutting Edge Theater

The Cutting Edge Theater presentation of ‘Going to the Chapel’ will feature, from left, Michelle Burris, Celia Guillory, Dawn Mastascuso and Robyn Costello.

TAMMANY TO DO BUSH

JAZZ’N THE VINES: 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Pontchartrain Vineyards, 81250 Old Military Road. Spring’n the Vines with live music by The Tin Men. Visit pontchartrainvineyards.com.

COVINGTON

BLOCK PARTY: 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday. City of Covington Block Party returns the last Friday of the month, March through October. COVINGTON FARMERS MARKET: 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Covington City Hall, 609 N. Columbia St.; and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays, Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St. Chompers BBQ will drive the smoker to the Market. Music by We 3 begins at 9:30 a.m. OLD FEED STORE MUSIC SERIES: Noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Marsonlan’s Feed and Seed Store, 316 E. Gibson St. The Potluck String Band opens the spring series with a performance followed by an open jam. Next up, Gina Forsyth, April 4. PHOTO WORKSHOPS: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, St. Tammany Art Association, 320 N. Columbia St. Tintype Print Workshop, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 28 ($195 cost includes supplies); and a Digital SLR Photography Workshop, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 4 ($85 cost includes supplies). For details, visit www. sttammanyartassociation.org.

MADISONVILLE

“SUDDENLY LESS SUMMER�: 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. March 26, Madisonville Library, 1123 Main St. Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities and the St. Tammany Parish Library present “Suddenly Less Summer: The Effects of Air Conditioning on Louisiana.� Participants can tell their own stories about life without air conditioning on March 26. For information, call (985) 893-6280, ext. 120.

MANDEVILLE

MANDEVILLE LIVE: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St. Days of Motown featuring The Mystics and the Ladies of Soul play the spring concert series at Mandeville Live! Gates will open at 6 p.m. Singaroux has been rescheduled to April 3. No outside food or drinks. Restaurant partners and the city of Mandeville will provide food and drinks. Call (985) 624-3147. GREAT LOUISIANA BIRDFEST: April 10-12. The 19th annual event of the Northlake Nature Center when many species of birds are migrating north through Louisiana from Mexico and South America. BirdFest trips will visit varied habitat including swamps, wetlands, pine savanna and hardwoods of southeast Louisiana. Additional information and registration available at www.northlakenature.org. SUMMER MUSICAL AUDITIONS: 3 p.m. April 12, 30 by Ninety Theater, 880 Lafayette St., Man-

deville. “The Great American Trailer Park Musical� will be directed by Jason Leader with musical direction by Thomas Braud and will run June 11-28. There are roles for five women and two men. Those auditioning must prepare one show tune and one country music selection. To register for auditions, email Leader at 30byNinety@gmail. com.

The guest speaker at a recent meeting of the Mandeville Kiwanis was Christina Cooper, of the St. Tammany Parish Tourist & Convention Commission. The commission’s mission is to market and promote St. Tammany Parish as a highly desirable destination for visitors and thereby increase the economic impact of tourism on the area. The website is www. louisiananorthshore.com. Shown are, from left, Guy Guinot, president of the Mandeville Kiwanis Club; Cooper, marketing and public relations manager for St. Tammany Parish Tourist & Convention Commission; and Michaelyn Broussard, Mandeville Kiwanis member. The club meets every Thursday at 7:15 a.m. at Mandeville Community Center, 3090 E. Causeway Approach. Visitors are welcome. For information, email Doug Ferrer at dferrer@bankoneresource.com or call (985) 640-7260.

57//'4 %#/2

"

1- 1 " -"1/ ,

Ä?,/

PEARL RIVER

THE LITTLE MERMAID: 7 p.m. Friday. Pearl River High presents “The Little Mermaid� The school musical is presented by the Talented Music students. and Kelsey Parker share the role of Ariel. Tickets are $5 for students and $7 for adults.

SLIDELL

Photo provided by SHEILA BUNN

Kelsey Parker shares the role of Ariel in the Pearl River High production of the musical ‘The Little Mermaid.’

IRIS’TIBLE ART FOR JO: Through Friday, Slidell Library, 555 Robert Blvd. The Slidell Art presents “A Show For Jo, Iris’tible Art.� Jo Peshek was a longtime member of Friends of the Slidell Library, and her favorite flower was the Louisiana iris. For information, visit www.slidellartleague.org or call (985) 640-2485. “MISS NELSON IS MISSING�: 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, Slidell Little Theatre, 2024 Nellie Drive. Theatre for Young Audiences presents “Miss Nelson Is Missing� with a special Pajama Party performances on Saturday nights at 7:30 p.m. Miss Nelson’s is the worst-behaved class until she is missing and is replaced by the scary substitute teacher, Viola Swamp. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for youths 10 and under. For tickets, call (985) 6410324 or visit www.SlidellLittleTheatre.org. “FULL MONTY� AUDITIONS: 6 p.m. Sunday, Slidell Little Theatre, 2024 Nellie Drive. Performances run May 1-17. Full Monty rehearsals are already underway, but casting is still available for the following characters; Noah “Horse� Simmons, a retired African-American mill worker who used to be a pretty decent break-dancer back in the day; Harold Nichols, a good dance partner with his wife Vicki who runs a dance studio for couples; Molly MacGregor, the mother of Malcolm MacGregor, an unemployed mill worker; Teddy Slaughter, live-in boyfriend to Pam Lukowski; and Repo Men, Male Strippers, a minister and others. For information, visit www.SlidellLittleTheatre.org CAREY STREET CRAWL: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. April 3. The Carey Street Coalition presents artists, craftspeople, outdoor dining options, pet adoptions and live music on Carey and Cousin

streets in Olde Towne Slidell. The monthly street fair is free. “GOING TO THE CHAPEL�: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays April 3-18 at the Cutting Edge Theater, 767 Robert Blvd., Slidell. The 1960s musical tells the story of Betty and her bridesmaids a week before the big day, and is suitable for all ages. Tickets range in price from $22 to $25 for adults, and are $16.50 for children. They may be purchased by visiting www.cuttingedgetheater.com or calling (985) 649-3727.

#46 &4#/# (#5*+10 &#0%' &'5+)0 2*161)4#2*;

-*Ä? - / ° , -/ ,

,70' ,7.;

"7t

4')+56'4 #6 1)&'0/75'7/ 14)

4G n Thursday, March 26, 2015 n theadvocate.com n

Advocate photos by MISSIE NOEL

Kimberly Brouillette, Lori Hosch and MaryLeigh Wolfe at CelKristie and Chuck Branton ebration

Kristin and Ronny Simpson

Melody Swain and Cary Menard

Amy Branch Ragusa with Al Taglialavore

President of the Children’s Museum of St. Tammany Board of Trustees Lisa Barnett with Nicole Windy and Pam Hartzog Gonzales

Paul and Shelly Scoggins

Alia Casborne, Laurie Pennison and Rachel Brumfield Jessica Karr and Meg Williams

Children’s Museum extravaganza highlight of season Bakery featured thousands The Children’s Museum of of edible treats, all following St. Tammany’s annual fundthe thematic treasure chest raiser is always a highlight of theme. Entertainment for the spring social season, and this year’s event was no excep- the evening was provided by Groovy 7 and the Fontainebtion. More than 1,300 guests leau High School Jazz enjoyed “Celebration: A Band. The event also Treasure Odyssey,â€? held featured a balloon drop, March 8 at the Castine raffles and young artiCenter in Mandeville. sans creating artwork Shades of blue and live, which was later green highlighted the available for purchase. venue, with balloon Highlighted this year sculptures and sea creawas the public unveiltures floating throughout. Local television TAMMANY ing of the architectural plans for the new mupersonalities Margaret SCENE seum. The gallery of deOrr and Doug Mouton MISSIE NOEL signs included the “Big served as emcees for Lake Tots,â€? “Wetland the extravaganza, the Walkâ€? and “River Landing,â€? primary fundraiser for the just to name a few. museum. Chairperson for the event More than 40 area restaurants participated in the “Culi- was Holly Cain. The Children’s Museum of nary Showcase,â€? vying for top honors as the patron’s favorite St. Tammany is a project of dish of the evening. This year’s the Junior League of Greater Covington, and Lisa Z. Barnett recipient of that honor was Dakota Restaurant, which fea- serves as president of the mutured their lump crabmeat and seum’s Board of Trustees. Brie soup. Always a high point, the giant dessert display by ZoÍ’s äSee SCENE, page 5G

6XPPHU &DPSV

%URWKHU 0DUWLQ +LJK 6FKRRO

>* %=0# ' # % 0 : '9 t ; /% '0 )9#0# ' 2>*88 t ;;;. /)6! /& /6#'. )& t > "8 7"* 3* <6. 7>88 &UXVDGHU &DPS -% & !* $% %($ ( - ** *.!

! + !

* + !*

) + ! !

+ ** *&

+ * + - )

& + - & !.

'DLO\ 6FKHGXOH .&. " ( .&. ( .&. " ))'

))' " * +.&. * +.&. " +.&.

t .&. " +.&. +RXUV &DPS t &+ /0 ' //#: 0 /%= 0 2 7> .&. 6 ') ! / . t 6 / / 9'6#% 7> +.&. #0 : #% % = 6! ; $ )'%= 6 )06 ) 8 + / ; $ t 6 +# $"9+ ;#%% ! / + / * &#'96 0

/XQFK # " /# ' %= )< %9' ! #' %9 #' /#'$ ;#%% : #% % )/ +9/ ! 0 6 8 + / ; $. &RVW * > + / ; $. % 0 %% )/ #' )/& 6#)' / / #' &9%6#+% &+ / #0 )9'60 )/ /90 / &+.

$ - %($ ( " " $ !% ! #

! "

TAX FREE DAYS! 6 DAYS ONLY! MARCH 30 - APRIL 4 PAY NO TAXES ON ANY STIHL OR TORO PRODUCTS

ST. TAMMANY’S LARGEST SELECTION ON IN-STORE STIHL PRODUCTS

9995

$

%DVHEDOO &DPS

%DVNHWEDOO &DPS )=0 '6 /#' 7/ " 6! / 0 9%= 8> " 9%= 8 *7 + / &+ / ,+/ "/ #06/ 6#)' # *3> + / &+ / ,; %$"9+ / #06/ 6#)'( .&. " 7 +.&. , )'." !9/0.-1 ( .&. " ))' , /#. '06/9 6#)' = /)6! / /6#' ) ! 0 ' +% = /0.

9' ! : #% % )/ +9/ ! 0 )' = " !9/0 =. + #0 %#&#6 6) *8 &+ /0.

( ,,,# $ ( $ $( # $ $ $ ( $ ( $ %( $

FS38 Curved Shaft Trimmer Designed for those seeking a great entry level string trimmer at a value price. Ideal for homeowner use. Its lightweight design is surprising when compared to its power output.

This is a powerful, quiet, easy-to-use electric handheld blower. It is great for clearing up leaves and grass clippings around the home.

14995

$

BG 55

Zero Turn Mowers $2299 Starting at

www.toro.com MOW LIKE A PRO

23995

$

BG 86

The BG 86 professional handheld blower, equipped with semi-automatic choke leve, has all the features and power you need for tough debris-clearing jobs.

27995

$

BR 200

%URWKHU 0DUWLQ 6SHFLDOW\ &DPSV

)=0 "* = /0 )% 9%= *7 9%= *2 ( >> .&. ))' *8 )/ 6! ; $4 7> + / =1 #06/ 6#)' ;#6! + =& '6 9 /# = 9%= *>6!. '06/9 6#)' = /)6! / /6#' 0 %% ) ! 0 ' +% = /0. ! 9% )/ 6! ; $ 9%= *7 " * #6 ! /0 ' 6 ! /01 9%= * )0#6#)' % = /01 9%= *3"*2 #66 /0. 6 / +/):# ' )' 00#)'0 ;#%% : #% % . + #0 %#&#6 6) 3> &+ /0.

12995

$

BGE 61 ELECTRIC

The lightweight backpack design and anti-vibration system provide additional comfort and help reduce fatigue. Experience a smooth start with a simplified starting procedure. Features include a tub-mounted throttle for ease of use and single-handed operation, a large fuel tank for longer run time and a two-ringed piston for extended life.

0% Financing up to 42 mos.

21995

$

FS 56 RC-E Trimmer

Designed with a low-emission engine, the versatile straight shaft FS 56 RC-E STIHL HomeScaper Series™ loop handled trimmer is smooth running to help reduce operator fatigue. With a simplified new starting procedure and featuring a semi-automatic choke that helps prevent flooding, you get a trimmer that’s ideal for homeowners wih heavy grass to trim n hard-to-reach places.

BEST SELLER

95 159 CERTIFIED MECHANICS FS 40 C-E Trimmer ON STAFF $

HOMEOWNERS DOUBLE YOUR WARRANTY

Double your chainsaw warranty to 2 years and all other gas powered Stihl products to 4 years when you purchase a siz park of Stihl HP Ultra Oil

Powered by an advanced low-emission engine, the lightweight curved shaft FS 40 C-E STIHL HomeScaper Series™ trimmer features Easy2Start™ and a new starting system designed to help prevent flooding - so you can get started with fewer steps. High fuel efficiency, along with excellent balance makes this trimmer comfortable on the wallet and in the yard. Starting at

17995 CHAIN SAWS

$

21459 Hwy. 36 Abita Springs 892-6530 ¡ Monday - Friday 7-5, Saturday 7-12

n theadvocate.com n Thursday, March 26, 2015 n 5G

Honorary Duke Alex Felder with Maid Brandee Santini and Duke Tom Collins

Queen Peggy Cromer with parade Grand Marshal state Rep. Greg Cromer

Supporting Candidates for Over 47 Years in Louisiana! VOTE MARCH 28th Please support these candidates for GOOD GOVERNMENT!

Member of School Board, District 14

#

1

Dennis “Coach�

COUSIN

Councilman District B, Covington

#

6

Richard

COMMENT, JR. Councilman District E, Covington

# 10

State Rep. Kevin Pearson with wife, Nancy, at the pre-parade brunch prior to the annual Slidell St. Patrick’s Day parade Benjamin Piazza, Garrett Penzato and Sharon Piazza

“Rick� Duke Eddie Reso, Maid Tanya Witchen, Maid Kathleen DesHotel and Duke Tommy Reeves

SCENE

Continued from page 4G

Slidell St. Patrick’s parade This year marked the 42nd anniversary of the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Slidell, sponsored by the Olde Towne Slidell Association. The krewe celebrated with a pre-parade brunch and toast presented by Kathy and Allen Little at Chateau Bleu. Dining included grits and grillades, homemade ham and biscuits and mimosas in the beautiful courtyard. The parade proceeded throughout Olde Towne Slidell. Walking groups, dance groups, floats and motorbikes had the crowds clamoring for not only beads and trinkets but also the traditional Irish parade goodies including cabbage, carrots and potatoes. Ruling the streets as dukes for the parade were Tom Collins, state Rep. Kevin Pearson, Thomas Reeves and Eddie Reso. Royal maids were Kathleen DesHotel, Nancy Pearson, Brandee Santini and Tanya Witchen. Alex Felder served as an honorary duke for the organization. State Rep. Greg Cromer served as grand marshal for the festivities, and a radiant Peggy Cromer reigned as queen of the court. The queen was attired in a stunning, white beaded gown with a dazzling collar and matching radiant necklace. Each of the royal maids wore individually styled gowns in shades of green. The dukes wore white tuxedos with matching green vests and bow ties.

This is your OFFICIAL ballot to take into the Voting Booth! Timothy J. “Tim� Fandal, Chairman of the Board To help our candidates or to become a member of the ALLIANCE FOR GOOD GOVERNMENT, write to: Cindy Fandal, President St. Tammany Chapter P.O. Box 1464, Mandeville, LA 70470 or visit: www.allianceforgoodgovernment.org Creative Marketing Sales, Inc., Agent Paid for on a pro rata basis by the candidates included in this ad.

Advocate photos by MISSIE NOEL

6800( 5 6 3 0 $ & & , $7 + /( 7 03 %$6. (7 % $ / / &$

5811 ,1 * & $ 03

Missie Arata Noel is the society and features writer for the St. Tammany Advocate. She can be contacted by email at jrnoel@bellsouth.net.

62&& (5 & $ 0 3

K

J K = @AF= E E M

K

SMITH

Yl K9 ; J=< @=9 J L

&$//,1* $// %2<6 *,5/6 6XPPHU )XQ ‡ 6XPPHU +HDUWV ‡ 6SRUWV 0RUH &UHDWLYH +H$576 ‡ &UHDWLYH )LUH ‡ 7KHDWHU ‡ &HUDPLFV ‡ -XPS 6WDUW -XQH ¹ -XO\ _ 5HJLVWHU DW

DVKURVDU\ RUJ

62)7% $ / / & $ 03

7(11 ,6 & $ 0 3

3 92//( < % $ / / & $0

UJ R V Q D OH U R Z H Q OLLQH 9LVVLWW ZZZ XXUVX

6G n Thursday, March 26, 2015 n theadvocate.com n

HEALTH BRIEFS SLIDELL MEMORIAL HOSPITAL: The Slidell Memorial Hospital Board of Commissioners selected David G. Mannella as board chairman for 2015. Mannella, who has represented residents of Ward 8 since 2009, is a business executive and formerly executive vice president and chief operating officer of the Jackson Kearney Group, a Mannella leading provider of maritime logistics services throughout the Gulf South. Board officers are elected annually. Daniel J. Ferrari, who represents Ward 7, was selected to serve as vice chairman for 2015. Walter J. “Dub� Lane, representing Ward 8, was selected as the secretary/ treasurer. Other board members are Dr. Kumar K. Amaraneni, representing Ward 9; Mack E. “Ed� Dennis, representing Ward 8;

BIRTHS Dr. Thomas Hall, representing Ward 8; Daniel McGovern IV, representing Ward 9; Dr. Clinton Sharp, representing the medical staff; and Dr. Archie Tatford, president of the medical staff. NURSING SCHOLARSHIP: The St. Tammany Hospital Foundation has awarded the Spring 2015 Dorothy L. Blossman Nursing Scholarship to Lauren Horridge, department head of nursing with the Covington Surgery Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital. She will use the $2,000 scholarship to continue working on her bachelor’s degree in nursing at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette; she is scheduled to graduate in May. ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT: An Alzheimer’s support group will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 26, at Live Oak Village of Slidell, 2200 Gause Blvd. East, Slidell. Participants are asked to call Lisa Foti at (985) 781-4545. BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT: A lac-

tation consultant will answer questions from expectant moms and new mothers from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, April 2, at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. The program is free. For information, contact ksupan@ stph.org or (985) 898-4435. GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP: A support group for parents who have experienced the loss of a child, from infant to adult, will meet at 7 p.m. Mondays, April 6 and 20, at the St. Tammany Hospital Hospice office, 725 W. 11th Ave., Covington. For information, contact Ada Marion (985) 871-5974 or amarion@ stph.org. BREAST CANCER SUPPORT: A breast cancer survivor support group will meet from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, at the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1203 S. Tyler St., Covington. This free support group is open to anyone receiving treatment or who

has completed treatment for breast cancer. For information, contact jfreudenberger@marybird.com or (985) 276-6832. CHILD SEAT INSPECTIONS: Free child safety seat inspections will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursday, April 9, at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. Call (985) 898-4435 to schedule an appointment. CANCER SUPPORT GROUP: The Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital will host a cancer connection support group from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, April 14, at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1203 S. Tyler St., Covington. Family members and friends challenged by cancer diagnosis are invited to share experiences and quality of life after a cancer diagnosis. For information, contact Jane Freudenberger at jfreudenberger@marybird.com or (985) 276-6832. BABY CARE BASICS: Helpful hints on caring for a new baby

Northshore Literary Society to celebrate 10th anniversary

Easter egg hunts set to raise money, spirits Advocate staff report More than 20,000 Easter eggs will be found on the grounds of Lakeview Regional Medical Center during the Rubber Duck Regatta and Eggstravaganza from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 29. Lakeview Regional is at 95 Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington. Admission is $1. The Easter egg hunt is in three groups: ages 4 and under, ages 5 to 8, and ages 9 to 12. Live entertainment will be Missy Spinosa, of the band Witness. Activities include inflatables, cookie decorating, face painting and a visit from the Easter Bunny. The day culminates with the Rubber Duck Regatta, with a $500 prize for the person who adopted the lucky duck out of 2,000 that crosses the finish line first. To adopt a rubber duck for $5, visit www.

kidstownsttammany.com. For information on this event, call (985) 867-9490. The event is a fundraiser for Tammany Trace Foundation to benefit Kids Town. Kids Town will be a western-style railroad town designed for interactive play by children and will include a fire station, a sheriff’s office, a general store and more. It will be near the Tammany Trace headquarters at Koop Drive just north of Mandeville. Other Easter events include: EASTER EGG HUNT: Families will gather for an Easter egg hunt and party from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 31, at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. The cost is one dozen filled eggs per child and a snack to share at the party. For information, contact ksupan@stph.org or

will be shared from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, April 15 and 22, at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Conference Center, 1202 S. Tyler St., Covington. Free. For information, call (985) 898-4083. BALLET: Kristen Zornman will teach a three-week series of ballet classes for children ages 2 and up at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays, April 15, 22 and 29, at the St. Tammany Parish Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. The class costs $21 for members and $30 for others. To register or for information, contact ksupan@ stph.org or (985) 898-4435. SURVIVE DAT!: A breast cancer support group for young survivors will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 16, at the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1203 S. Tyler St., Covington. All are welcome regardless of where treatment was received. For information, contact jfreudenberger@marybird.com or (985) 276-6832.

Advocate staff report

Advocate file photo by SCOTT THRELKELD

Children scramble for eggs during the 2014 Kids Town EGGStravaganza and Rubber Duck Regatta at Lakeview Regional Medical Center in Covington. (985) 898-4435. EASTER AT THE MARKET: There will be music, games, a petting zoo and a visit from the Easter Bunny during Easter at the Market from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 4, at the Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville. NORTHSHORE FAMILIES HELPING FAMILIES: Northshore Parent

has organized an Easter egg hunt to benefit Northshore Families Helping Families from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 4, at Paul Cordes Park, 3101 E. Causeway Approach, Mandeville. Tickets are $3 at EventBrite.com. Send news of Easter events to tammany@theadvocate.com.

Pamela Binnings Ewen, of Mandeville, will speak on character development when the Northshore Literary Society celebrates its 10th anniversary from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, April 12, at Mac’s On Boston Street, 324 E. Boston St., in Covington. Ewen is a co-founder of the Northshore Literary Society and author of seven books including “Secret of the Shroud,� “Chasing the Wind� and “Accidental Life.� There also will be an exchange of books on the craft of writing. Admission is free for society members and $10 for others. For information, visit www.northshoreliterary society.com or call (985) 7882293.

Recent births at St. Tammany Parish Hospital in Covington include: n Laia Michi Sanders, born March 2, daughter of Qiana Marie Ewens and Leo Aaron Sanders, of Covington. She weighed 6 pounds, 11 ounces. n Ally Rose Alonzo, born March 4, daughter of Erin Ally Alonzo and Christopher Joseph Alonzo. She weighed 7 pounds. n Adriana Michelle Arnone, born March 4, daughter of Taman Bonin Arnone and Gregory Michael Arnone, of Hammond. She weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces. n Connor James Castillo, born March 9, son of Holly Kristin Castillo and Carlos F.R. Castillo, of Independence. He weighed 8 pounds, 11 ounces. n Brooklyn Robyn Meynard, born March 9, daughter of Danielle Robin Kohn and Jace Paul Meynard, of Covington. She weighed 5 pounds, 10 ounces.

HonorÊ to speak at La. Veterans Festival Advocate staff report Retired Lt. Gen. Russel HonorÊ will speak at the veterans tribute ceremony during the Louisiana Veterans Festival, which will take place from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 16, at the Northshore Harbor Center, 100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell. HonorÊ is focusing his efforts on creating a culture of preparedness in the United States. The Veterans Festival will feature a car and truck exhibition from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., music, arts and crafts and Habitat for Humanity’s first Children’s Build. Admission is $8 per person and $5 per veteran, with children 12 and younger admitted free. Proceeds from this East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity event will support the organization’s Veterans Build program, providing affordable homes for military heroes and their families. Sponsorship opportunities are available for the Louisiana Veterans Festival. For information, contact East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity at (985) 649-0067 or visit www. laveteransfestival.com.

NEIGHBORHOOD BRIEFS PRIMATE RESEARCH QUESTIONS: People who live or go to school near the Tulane National Primate Research Center are encouraged to attend an informational meeting on a bacterial infection affecting two monkeys at the center. The center is at 18703 Three Rivers Road, Covington. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday in the St. Tammany Parish Council chambers, 21490 Koop Drive, Mandeville. Among those who will be at the meeting are St. Tammany Parish President Pat Brister and representatives of the St. Tammany Parish Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, the primate center and the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness. Two monkeys in the breeding colony at the primate center became ill with Burkholderia pseudomallei in November. This strain of bacteria is not endemic in the United States but was the subject of research at the primate center. Because Burkholderia pseudomallei is tightly controlled by the federal government, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of Ag-

riculture initiated a joint investigation of TNPRC in January. For updates from St. Tammany Parish, visit stpgov.org/community-awareness. SUBMARINERS’ LUNCH: Redfish Base of U.S. Submarine Veterans Inc. will meet at noon April 4 at American Legion Post 185, 1680 St. Ann Place, Slidell. Lunch is $10. Current and past submariners and their guests are welcome. For information, call Gisela Sorjonen at (985) 643-9878. DOVIA TRAINING: A Volunteer Management Training Series will be held on the north shore on the first three Tuesdays in April. This is a comprehensive course focused on program development, recruitment, and supervision skills. For more information, call (985) 624-3514 or visit www. dovianeworleans.org. KREWE OF SELENE: The Krewe of Selene will hold a general membership meeting at 7 p.m. April 7 in the gymnasium at Our Lady of Lourdes, 345 Westchester Blvd., Slidell. Prospective members are invited to learn more about the all-women Mardi Gras organization. FESTIVAL OF HOMES: Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West will be the beneficiary of the Lakeside Village Cottages Festival

of Homes from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 1619. Participants will tour three new homes decorated by local interior designers Georgian Furnishing and Berger Home, St. Romain Interiors and The French Mix Interior Design. The main office of Lakeside Village is at 1 Sanctuary Blvd., Mandeville. Tickets are $20 and may be purchased at habitatstw.org/donate/lsvcottages. ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION: Teaching Responsible Earth Education will hold a B’Earthday Party from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 18 at TREE’s outdoor classroom at 14029 U.S. 190, Covington. There will be hands-on forest activities, food, crafts and woodlands walks in piney woods along the Little Tchefuncte River. Admission is free. Education staff and volunteers will lead activities and crafts for children and adults for fees ranging from $1 to $5 per activity. Picnic foods will be sold for prices ranging from $1 to $10. Sue Brown, a New Orleans public school teacher, founded TREE to engage students in science by exposing them to natural spaces outside and within the landscape of metro New Orleans. It is a nonprofit organization and sustains its programs through donations, fees, and grants.

Camp Shamrock Summer Camp

June 1, 2015 - July 24, 2015 Weekly Activities: ďŹ eld trips, water slides, spacewalks, and snowballs $90.00 per week (Please call for family discounts) 1503 Carol Sue Avenue • Gretna, Louisiana 70056 (504) 392-3804

n theadvocate.com n Thursday, March 26, 2015 n 7G

Parish officials speak on emergency preparedness plans

Photo provided by Court Appointed Special Advocates

Sirwanda Hall, of Slidell, left, is sworn in as a court-appointed special advocate by Slidell City Court Judge Jim Lamz, right. At center is Candace Page, supervisor of volunteers for CASA.

Slidell City Court cites need for CASA volunteers

services for children in state custody as well as to serve as a child’s voice in court. The minimum age is 21. “CASA volunteers are the eyes and the ears of the court. They are the only people involved in the child’s case who have absolute purity of purpose. For many children, they are the first champion they’ve ever had in their life,� Lamz said. To join the next training class for CASA volunteers or for information, call the Youth Service Bureau at (985) 6494092.

at a time, serving as the child’s advocate in all court proceedHaving completed her train- ings until their case concludes. Applicants must be objecing, Sirwanda Hall, of Slidell, has been sworn in as the new- tive, culturally aware, emoest court-appointed special tionally stable, diplomatic advocate at Slidell City Court, individuals capable of netwhere the need for such volun- working with social service agencies and must be willing teer services remains high. Judge Jim Lamz said the to undergo extensive criminal need for CASA volunteers con- background checks, according tinues for the children served to Youth Service Bureau CASA Director Ila Dieterich. through Slidell City Court. Those accepted participate in CASA is a program administered by the Youth Service training to learn how to serve Bureau in which volunteers as effective volunteer advoeach work on one child’s case cates for quality treatment and

Advocate staff report

Photo provided by DAR

The Wharton Chapter DAR National Defense Luncheon featured St. Tammany Parish Councilman Reed Falconer and Dexter Accardo, director of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness of St. Tammany Parish. They spoke about procedures and policies within parish government regarding emergency situations. Standing, from left, are Falconer, Emily Smith, Regent Anne Raposo and Accardo.

"

! !

Photo provided by St. Tammany Parish Hospital

Licensed practical nurse Erin Newman, second from left, has won the $2,000 spring 2015 professional education scholarship awarded by the Medical Staff Committee at St. Tammany Parish Hospital. Newman is working toward her associate’s degree in nursing from Delgado Community College’s Charity School of Nursing. From left are Dr. Patrick Torcson, hospital vice president; Newman; Kerry Milton, chief nursing officer; and Susan Titman, head of critical-care nursing.

COLLEGE BRIEFS DELTA TAU DELTA: Delta Tau Delta fraternity has presented its Hugh Shields Award to its Epsilon Phi chapter at Southeastern Louisiana University. The award is given annually to 10 chapters that excel in academics, finances, recruitment, membership education, operations, campus leadership, service and alumni relations. The chapter also received individual programming awards for excellence in the area of academics, membership education and ritual performance. Members of Epsilon Phi chapter of Delta Tau Delta include Ryan Fonseca and Garrin Pellegrin, both of Mandeville;

Brent Bourgeois, of Pearl River; and Joshua Bremer, Kristian Burns, Matthew Conaway, Scott Harpster, David Nicoletti, Mason Owens, Brendan

Sundrud, Justin Weaver and Oliver Young Hernandez, of Slidell. New members include Dylan Stanley, of Mandeville and Daniel Moore, of Slidell.

OVER 30 BRAND NEW SLIPS

(Covered & Uncovered) Available April 1st! Park directly in RESERVE TODAY! front of your slip! Boat Launch - Fuel Pool - Restaurant

Tchfuncte River Madisonville Call 985-845-4474

/HDGHUFDVW H[LVWV WR SRVLWLYHO\ FKDQJH WKH ZD\ WKH ZRUOG WKLQNV DERXW OHDGHUVKLS 7KLV \HDU¡V WKHPH ² 7KH %UDYH 2QHV ² FKDOOHQJHV OHDGHUV WR IRFXV RQ WKH FRXUDJH QHFHVVDU\ WR OHDG ([SHULHQFH D IXOO GD\ RI /HDGHUFDVW /LYH DQG GLVFRYHU ZKDW LW PHDQV WR EH D OHDGHU ZRUWK IROORZLQJ -RLQ XV 0D\ DW 0RYLH 7DYHUQ 1 +LJKZD\ &RYLQJWRQ /RXLVLDQD )RU WLFNHWV DQG LQIRUPDWLRQ OHDGHUFDVW FRP ORFDWLRQ VWWDPPDQ\ 6SHDNHUV 5XG\ *LXOLDQL 6HWK *RGLQ 0DODOD <RXVDI]DL (G &DWPXOO

6800(5 &$036

$QG\6WDQOH\ %LOO0F'HUPRWW &0'5 5RUNH 'HQYHU %LOO *LXOLDQD 5DQFLF $MD %URZQ DQG PRUH

6800(5 '$< &$03 )25 %2<6 $*(6 6L[ :HHN 3URJUDP -XQH -XO\ 7KUHH :HHN 3URJUDPV $YDLODEOH

$&$'(0,&6 $1' 632576 &$036 %DVHEDOO ‡ %DVNHWEDOO ‡ )RRWEDOO ‡ 6RFFHU 5RERWLFV ‡ 6FLHQFH ‡ 6WXG\ 6NLOOV ,QIRUPDWLRQ IHHV DQG UHJLVWUDWLRQ IRUPV IRU DOO FDPSV DUH DYDLODEOH DW ZZZ MHVXLWQROD RUJ 6XPPHU&DPSV -HVXLW +LJK 6FKRRO GRHV QRW GLVFULPLQDWH RQ WKH EDVLV RI UDFH FRORU RU QDWLRQDO RU HWKQLF RULJLQ LQ WKH DGPLQLVWUDWLRQ RI LWV HPSOR\PHQW DGPLVVLRQV HGXFDWLRQDO RU DWKOHWLF SROLFLHV

6SRQVRU

3UHVHQWHU

8G n Thursday, March 26, 2015 n theadvocate.com n

St. Ben’s to celebrate 95th homecoming April 10 be given for the 2015 graduates and the Jubilee Class of St. Joseph Seminary Col- 1965. Father Matthew Clark, alumlege, also known as St. Ben’s, will celebrate its 95th Alumni ni director, welcomes all who Homecoming on the grounds have attended St. Ben’s for at of St. Joseph Abbey and Semi- least one year to be a part of nary College on Friday, April this celebration. Check-in begins at 1 p.m. Fri10, honoring the classes of ’55, ’65, ’75, ’85, ’90, ’95, ’05 and day under the Pius X breeze2015. Special recognition will way with refreshments availAdvocate staff report

able in the lobby of Benet Hall. Schola practice begins at 2 p.m., the general assembly with be at 4 p.m. in Benet Hall. Mass follows the assembly at 5:30 p.m. in the Abbey Church. Principal celebrant is Daniel Cardinal Di Nardo, archbishop of Galveston-Houston. Homilist is the Rev. Peter Hammett, O.S.B., Class of ’65. Clergy

honorees are invited to concelebrate. Alumni are asked to bring an alb and white stole. Deacon honorees are invited to vest. The evening social begins at 6:30 p.m. with appetizers and drinks in Christ Court. Dinner follows at 7:30 p.m. in the Pius X breezeway. Register online at www.

FAITH NOTES LAMB OF GOD LUTHERAN: Palm Sunday services will be held at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday, at Lamb of God Lutheran Church, 57210 Allen Road, Slidell. There will be Bible study and Sunday school at 9:15 a.m.There will be worship services at 7 p.m. Maundy Thursday, April 2, and at 7 p.m. Good Friday, April 3. On Easter Sunday, April 5, there will be worship services at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., with a brunch and Easter egg hunt at 9:15 a.m. For information, call the church office at (985) 847-1877. PEACE LUTHERAN: Holy Week services at Peace Lutheran Church, 1320 W. Gause Blvd., Slidell, will include a Maundy Thursday service with foot-washing at 7 p.m. April 2; a Good Friday Stations of the Cross at noon on April 3; and a Tenebrae service with Dr. Christy Graves at 7 p.m. April 3. “Tenebrae� is Latin for shadows or darkness and refers to a service that centers on the gradual extinguishing of candles. On Easter, April 5, there will be a sunrise service at 7 a.m., a traditional celebration at 9 a.m. and a contemporary celebration at 11 a.m. CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH: Stations of the Cross will be held at 5:30 p.m. Friday at 1534 Seventh St. in Slidell. Palm Sunday services are Sunday at 8 and 10:30 a.m. Tenebrae service is at 7 p.m. April 1; Stations of the Cross, noon April 2; Maundy Thursday service 7 p.m. April 2; Stations of the Cross, noon April 3; Good Friday liturgy and Communion, 7 p.m. April 3; Easter Vigil 7 p.m. April 4. Easter service is 10:30 a.m. April 5, followed by the Great Easter Egg Hunt. All children are welcome to join in finding all the eggs. CAREGIVING SERIES AT FIRST BAPTIST: “Caring for Your Aging Loved Ones: Guilt-free Caregiving� is the topic of weekly free classes presented from 5:05 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sundays at First Baptist Church, 16333 La. 1085, Covington, in Room 502. Questions with a panel of experienced caregivers is the format on Sunday. Register at www.fbccov.org or call (985) 892-2149.

CONVEYING CARING: Religious ethicist Jacob Robinson’s thoughts on “How to be True to Your Faith (Without Being a Jerk)â€? will be the theme of a Lifetree CafĂŠ program at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 1, at Bethany Lutheran Church, 1340 Eighth St., Slidell. “I started to learn that instead of correcting people, I needed to learn how to listen. Before I had always listened to correct; I didn’t listen to care,â€? Robinson said. Participants will gain practical skills for having religious conversations in a way that engages people instead of pushing them away. Admission to the 60-minute event is free, and snacks and beverages will be available. Questions about Lifetree may be directed to Shelly Bogran at (985) 643-3043 or Lifetreecafe. bethany@gmail.com. PRAYER BREAKFAST: Astronaut Charles Duke will be the guest speaker during a prayer breakfast sponsored by Christian Business Men’s Connection and Life Resources, Inc., at 7 a.m. April 10, at the Fleur De Lis Event Center, 1645 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville. The master of ceremonies will be St. Tammany Parish District Attorney Warren Montgomery. Tickets are $25 per person or $190 for a table of eight and are available by calling (985) 626-9582 or liferesources1@gmail.com. To pay online, go to www.liferesources.net. Duke will also speak at a prayer breakfast in Metairie at 7 a.m. April 9. FEAST OF DIVINE MERCY: The Feast of Divine Mercy will be celebrated at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, April 12, at St. Peter Catholic Church, 125 E. 19th Ave., Covington. The Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will be at 2:30 p.m., followed by a reflection offered by James Seghers on the mission and message of mercy given to St. Faustina by Jesus. The Chaplet of Divine Mercy will be prayed on the half-hour from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Silent prayer time will also be available during Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Benediction is at 4:30 p.m. The regularly

Coroner speaks to Covington Rotary

scheduled Sunday Mass begins at 5 p.m. For information, call the St. Peter rectory at (985) 8922422. SLIDELL FAITH MUSIC FESTIVAL: Bethany Lutheran Church will hold its Slidell Faith Music Festival from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 25, at Slidell Heritage Park, 1701 Bayou Lane, Slidell. There will be continuous live Christian music from local bands. Admission is free, and visitors are invited to bring a picnic or purchase food and drinks at the park. For information, visit www. slidellfaithmusicfest.com. LENTEN FISH FRIES: Fridays in Lent are marked by fish fries at area churches. A partial list: Our Lady of the Lake, 316 Lafitte St., Mandeville. The Knights of Columbus Council 9240 will hold fish fries from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dinners, $9, are available for dine-in or takeout and include fried or baked catfish, bread, soft drink, dessert and two sides. There also will be a food drive benefiting the Samaritan Center. St. John the Baptist, 11345 St. John Church Road, Folsom. The Knights of Columbus will offer a fish fry from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Cost is $9 for dine-in or takeout plates of fried or baked fish served with hush puppies, coleslaw and

cheese potatoes. St. Peter Catholic Church, 125 E. 19th Ave., Covington. Knights of Columbus Council 12906 will host fish fries from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dinners include fried shrimp or Louisiana-raised catfish served with homemade coleslaw, a portion of potato salad or french fries and French bread. To place an order in advance, $10 for adults, $5 for children, visit www. kofc12906covington.org by 3 p.m. Friday. St. Anselm Church, 306 St. Mary St., Madisonville. Beginning at 4 p.m. for drive-thru and 5 p.m. for dine-in. Fried or baked catfish platters, shrimp platters and seafood platters, which include a softshell crab. Also available are Caesar salad with shrimp, homemade gumbo and crawfish ÊtouffÊe served over rice. Platters include french fries and hush puppies, two homemade sides, a dessert and drink. For information, call (985) 845-7342. St. Margaret Mary, 1050 Robert Blvd., Slidell. SMM Men’s Club offers fried catfish platter for $8 for dine-in or drive-through pickup from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Send news of faith events and services to sttammany@ theadvocate.com.

&- ' *.$

" "# # - " " & " " ) ! ) '

#+) &" ) +) ##&' , #% &' % '

; 2 26 '%2# 6+ <-+2 %)2-%1 ) )" " %) %:% 9 '2 +96 2 % ) 6 #)+'+"= )"%) 1%)" ) ( 6# ( 6% 20 9(( 1 %2 '' +96 : '9 2 9) ) ' 1)%)" " 2 $ ,! = 120 9) , 9'= 8! 8>, +) 1% . ( 7 -(/ +1 1 .3 ( (/4 6 1 1 .7 -( # - 1 &/ ,8 - 1 ; & %(%6 %) ) % ' 22%26 ) : %' ' %6# %6%+) ' 7

$ 888> 1 6# 26' ' = ': 0 ; 1' )2 3>,,7 0 >! 8** !7,> 0 >! 88 337*

Photo provided by Covington Rotary Club

The members and guests of the Covington Rotary Club learned of many changes and improvements in St. Tammany Parish death investigations at a lunch meeting at Seiler Bar, 434 N. Columbia St. The speaker, Coroner Charles Preston, was elected St. Tammany Parish Coroner in May. Shown at the meeting is Preston, left, and Covington Rotary member Mark Wright.

+DYH D )XQ 6XPPHU

GLIIHUHQW ZHHN IXOO DQG KDOI GD\ FDPSV IURP ZKLFK WR FKRRVH

.EGOWSR %ZIRYI ˆ 2I[ 3VPIERW 0% ˆ

ZZZ WULQLW\QROD FRP VXPPHU FDPS

-(/ . 8 0>>

sjasc.edu or through the mail to SJSC Alumni Association 75376 River Road, St. Benedict, LA 70457. Alumni dues are $25 for clergy and lay alumni and $5 for student alumni. Homecoming Day fees for the social and the dinner are $30 for clergy and lay alumni and $15 for student alumni.

Volunteers are encouraged to help with all alumni activities. To volunteer, contact help Clark at (985) 867-2245 or mrclark@sjasc.edu. In 1891, St. Joseph Seminary College was established by the Benedictine Monks of St. Joseph Abbey, who still administer the seminary college today.

Holy Trinity KCs present Knight of the Month

Photo provided by KC Council

Council Grand Knight David Wilson, left, presents the Knight of the Month award to Richard Evans.

n theadvocate.com n Thursday, March 26, 2015 n 9G

Mandeville Elementary students learn about magnets

Photo provided by Junior League of Slidell

Shown at the 27th annual Regional Bee are, from left, Linda Delaughter, Sandra Chavers, Jacob Spencer, Brooke Kenworthey and Lynn Gordon.

Photo provided by Mandeville Elementary

Eden Martin, Jursey Foote, Stella Ledig and Lila Berget experiment with magnets in their firstgrade classroom at Mandeville Elementary School.

Mandeville students raise money for Habitat for Humanity

Two advance to regional bee enth-grader Jacob Spencer and Clearwood Junior High The Junior Auxiliary of seventh-grader Brooke KenSlidell sponsored two spelling worthey placed in the top three bees with winners who went on in the preliminary competition to compete at the 27th annual and were among 12 students Regional Bee recently held at who participated in the final competition. Xavier University. Junior Auxiliary sponsors Boyet Junior High sevAdvocate staff report

annual spelling bees at Clearwood and Boyet. Members work with the students to prepare for the school bees and to prep the school finalists for regionals. There were over 200 spellers in the Regional Bee from a seven-parish area.

" " "# " Photo provided by Mandeville Middle School

Students at Mandeville Middle School recently raised money for Habitat for Humanity by paying $1 for the privilege of wearing a hat to school. From left are sixth-graders Matthew Folse, Skyler Marr, Tito Ruiz, Hailly Waterhouse and Jacob Haley with their creative toppers.

SCHOOL BRIEFS CHRIST EPISCOPAL SCHOOL: The opening night party for Art at the Park will take place from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, April 17, at Christ Episcopal School, 80 Christwood Blvd., Covington. Tickets for the “Under the Big Top� fundraiser are $50 and are available at the school; the office phone number is (985) 871-9902. The opening night party will feature Artistes de Cirque, a troupe carnivale including ringmaster Michael Dardant, fire performer LadyBeast, aerialist Liza Rose, sword swallower and magician Tobias Weinberger, stilt walker Val Russell and contortionist Jordan Ashley. There also will be a student art show and auction, a silent auction, painting on-site, a tuition raffle and gourmet carnival fare by Oxlot 9. After the adults have had their fun, there will be a daylong Art at the Park celebration for the whole family from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 18, on the CES campus. There will be art tents, bingo, an obstacle course, art demonstrations, a photo booth and food. The school website is christepiscopalschool.org. ST. PAUL’S JROTC: St. Paul’s School Air Force Junior ROTC Academic Quiz Bowl Team has been selected to compete in the 2015 Air Force JROTC Academic Quiz Bowl Championship in Washington, D.C., on the campus of the Catholic University of America in June. The event is sponsored by the Air Force JROTC and is conducted by the College Options Foundation. The first round

Âť Âť Âť Âť Âť Âť

Photo provided by St. Paul’s

St. Paul’s School Air Force Junior ROTC Academic Quiz Bowl Team members shown are, from left, Christopher Pennison, Jeffery Bodin, James Seese and Ruston Keller. of competition included 220 schools worldwide. St. Paul’s advanced to compete in the second round with 110 schools. The Wolves and teams from seven other schools will travel to Washington on an all-expenses-paid trip to compete on the national level June 26-30. The questions in the competition included JROTC curriculum, English, math and science. This format meets the goal of Academic Quiz Bowl to prepare students for state exit exams and college entrance exams, including the SAT and ACT.

The winners of the Air Force competition will compete against the winners of the Army, Marine and Navy JROTC Academic Bowls in the JROTC Joint Service Academic Bowl Championship. The students also will have time to visit some of the most famous sights while on their trip. St. Paul’s has the oldest Air Force Junior ROTC unit in Louisiana and the only Air Force Unit based in a Catholic school. The Louisiana 441st is under the command of Master Sgt. A.J. East.

NOW 50% OFF

Community Center at Christwood Wellness Membership Fee! On any new membership through March 31, 2015, in honor or our upcoming One Year Anniversary. For details or to schedule a tour, call (985) 292-1234.

23,000 sq. ft. of gorgeous, state-of-the-art wellness,

IMAGINE: open to individuals and couples from the surrounding area who are age 55+. Genius, isn’t it?

INDOOR HEATED SALTWATER POOL & AEROBICS STUDIO

Low, moderate, and high intensity classes Professional instructors State-of-the-art ďŹ tness room

JOIN OUR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Saturday, March 21 - 1 to 4PM Kindly RSVP by calling (985) 292 - 1234

LOTUS SPA SERVICES

All services by appointment only Visit LotusSpaChristwood.com

100 Christwood Blvd. ¡ Covington, LA 70433 (985) 292-1234 ¡ Brewster Road Entrance

10G n Thursday, March 26, 2015 n theadvocate.com n

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.