The St. Tammany Advocate

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THE ST.TAMMANY

ADVOCATE

COVINGTON • FOLSOM • LACOMBE • MADISONVILLE • MANDEVILLE • SLIDELL

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THURSDAY DECEMBER 11, 2014 H

THENEWORLEANSADVOCATE.COM

Sharon Edwards TAMMANY TIMES SEDWARDS@THEADVOCATE.COM

Red Ribbon photo wins national contest A thumbs-up for a drugfree lifestyle just won national recognition and will soon put St. Tammany in the educational spotlight.

The 2014 National Red Ribbon Photo Contest received hundred of entries and more than 188,000 votes were cast between Oct. 1 and Nov. 4 to chose the photo that best expressed the 2014 theme, “Love Yourself. Be Drug Free.”

In the Home Decorations category, Kendall Remerow, a student at Honey Island Elementary School in Slidell, won for her family’s door decoration. In the winning photo, her smile and thumbsup reflect enthusiasm for her message: “Roses are red, violets are blue. I hate drugs.

How about you?”

Kendall’s mother, Kristin Remerow, said, “I just loved seeing Kendall’s joy and excitement during the competition. To spread the word about our entry, Kendall shared information with her teacher, who shared with the principal, who sent a newsletter to the whole school. They really rallied behind her.”

For helping to spread the drug-free message in the community, Kendall will receive a $1,000 grant from the Drug Enforcement Administration to be used for Honey Island Elementary School’s drug prevention programs.

The Remerow family will receive an iPad. A local DEA officer will present the award to Honey Island Elementary during the school’s morning broadcast at 8 a.m. Dec. 17.

Red Ribbon Week is observed Oct. 23-31. Each year students submit ideas for the national theme. One winner is chosen from each of the 10 regions throughout the country. St. Tammany is in Region 6. Other contest winners were in Iowa, Oregon, South Dakota, Pennsylvania, California, Oregon, Illinois, South Carolina, Massachusetts and New York.

The purpose of the annual contest is to involve families and schools in spreading the Red Ribbon Week message.

Families, schools and communities work together to promote healthy, drug-free kids in the program that is cosponsored with the U.S. Department of Justice and the Drug Enforcement Administration. äSee TIMES, page 2G

Rotary Club to feed families for Christmas

BY ABBY DONALDSON Special to The Advocate

Every year on Christmas morning, hundreds of volunteers show up at the St. Paul’s School cafeteria in Covington to deliver more than 1,500 Christmas meals to students and families in the area who are in need.

“It’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done,” said John Baldwin, co-founder of the Feeding the Needy program.

The program focuses on the families of local students who depend on the food provided by free school meal programs, which are not available during school holidays.

Feeding the Needy is led by the Covington Rotary Club. The group hosted its fourth annual Feeding the Needy fundraiser luncheon last month at the Clarion Inn in Covington. The luncheon is the main fundraising event for the program.

More than 100 community members and supporters of the program attended the fundraiser luncheon, which featured a three-course meal and a presentation titled “No Bad Days, No Bad Service” by motivational speaker Bruce Hamilton.

The volunteer program was founded 12 years ago by Covington Rotary Club members Craig Babylon and Baldwin, who used to volunteer for a similar program led by Orleans Par-

ish police until it ended around 2000.

“That program ended, and Christmas came and went, and nothing was done,” Baldwin said. “So we decided if no one was going to do anything, then we need to do it.”

When the program started in 2002, the small group of volunteers was able to feed 60 families and individuals from St. Tammany Parish. Since then, the program has grown to in-

clude more than 300 volunteers a year. Last year, the group was able to prepare and deliver 1,565 Christmas dinners. The project now reaches people in St. Tammany, Tangipahoa and Washington parishes.

“All I had was an idea. All of the volunteers who touch this program, they’re the ones who do it. Without them, this would not get done,” Baldwin said. äSee ROTARY, page 2G

Golfers head to greens in support of YMCA

Advocate staff photos by REBECCA RATLIFF

The Mandeville Show Choir wows the crowd Friday with its Jingle Bell Jukebox performance at the 15th annual Holiday of Lights at the Trailhead on Koop Drive in Mandeville. The choir members are third- to sixth-graders in St. Tammany Parish.

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TW NKLE

The 15th annual Holiday of Lights, sponsored by the Tammany Trace Foundation and St. Tammany Parish Government, officially opened to the public Friday at the Tammany Trace Kids Town Pavilion at Koop Drive in Mandeville.

The fun continues ä More with live photos at entertainment, thenew orleans Santa Claus and advocate. kiddie rides from com.

6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Friday and Saturday.

The light displays will be illuminated from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. through the end of December.

Rows of Christmas trees decorated by schools and departments in St. Tammany Parish government twinkle in the night.

Necessity is the mother of invention.

That was the case seven years ago when the West St. Tammany YMCA began the Blue Heron Charity Golf Tournament to raise money for association programs.

And that was the case again last year when YMCA officials began the Great Ball Drop, which gave an added boost to fundraising totals.

So on Nov. 24, necesREC & sity called once LEISURE again, and the ANDREW good people of CANULETTE St. Tammany Parish showed up in droves at Money Hill Golf and Country Club to support the Y and its mission to support children through after-school initiatives and other programs.

A total of 128 golfers (32 foursomes) played on the spectacular Money Hill course that day and were treated to more food and drink than one could imagine. Attractive items were raffled off, and a robust feast of fried catfish rounded out the day on the outdoor deck of the country club. A small army of volunteers made the day a rousing success.

According to West St. Tammany YMCA membership director Kakki Taliancich, the golf tournament is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the local arm of the association.

“We’re a charity organization,” she said. “We have to raise funds to have our children’s programs, to offer scholarships. This is what we do. The community comes out to help us each year. The effort all around is outstanding.” äSee REC, page 2G

Lessons from barn benefit students, animals Located on the 36-acre campus of Christ Episcopal School in Covington, is a small barn called the Discovery Barn.

More than a home to animals, it’s a hands-on teaching tool with lessons on preservation of Louisiana’s landscapes and wildlife.

The prekindergarten through 12th-grade coeducational school, founded in 1984, is known for the new high school and the Center of Inquiry opened for the 2013-14 school year. The innovative center has more than 41,000

square feet that includes performance space, video production studios, science labs, a library, art studio and more.

But its outdoor learning barn is IN PROFILE equally as imDEBORAH pressive.

BURST “Although a picture is worth a thousand words, live animals help children gain a more intimate connection to our natu-

ral environment,” Margaret deLaureal, Discovery Barn director and state wildlife rehabilitator, said.

DeLaureal began volunteering once a week when the barn opened in 2006 and has watched the barn grow into what she calls a multifaceted educational facility. Volunteers, both adults and students, help deLaureal with the barn and animals.

“I can’t begin to tell you how much I love my job,” deLaureal said with a smile, commenting that the animals teach

the children many lessons such as compassion, empathy and stewardship. “The combination of helping animals and educating children is a magic synergy for me.”

A resident of St. Tammany for nearly 20 years, deLaureal grew up in a rural area on the north shore of Long Island.

Her mother was a naturalist and a member of the Audubon Society, and deLaureal enjoyed listening to her mother’s stories about birding trips.

Advocate photo by DEBORAH BURST

The Christ Episcopal third-graders painted a wetlands mural äSee PROFILE, page 2G on the side of their Discovery Barn on the Covington campus.

2G F Thursday, December 11, 2014 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

SPORTS BRIEFS

Photo provided by Lake Castle

Cross country teams finish in second place

The Northshore Independent Athletic League recently held its annual cross country championships in Hammond. The Lake Castle junior high and middle school cross country teams took home second place in the championships. Team members are, from left, first row, Abigail Raney, McKenna Cordell, Monique Theriot, Leah Horst, Lilly Keel, Barbara Elmore, Brooke Messa, Jordan Dalton and Jack Solis; second row, Banks Neitzchmann, Avery Rogers, Noah Vastola, Ricky Solis, Nicklaus Pettavino, Merritt Sweeney, Bradley Adams, Will Allen, Isaac Coletta, coach Shelley Luscy; and third row, Graden Casse, Ayaan Sultan, Jackson Luscy, Grahm Casse, Colby Moore, Ryne Passauer, Zachary Fenn, Harrison Willis. Not pictured is Brennan LeBlanc.

REC

Continued from page 1G Showing versatility and an ability to roll with the punches, YMCA officials had to make a last-minute switch to the Great Ball Drop on Nov. 24. Sometime that afternoon, a helicopter was supposed to show up at Money Hill and load up a YMCA official who would dump several hundred golf balls onto the 18th hole. The ball landing closest to a designated marker would win the cash prize that was accumulated by selling balls for $20 each.

In an apparent miscommunication with the pilot, however, the helicopter was a no-show that day. So, YMCA officials met and decided to have Money Hill PGA professional Stephen Christopher reach into the giant plastic bucket of numbered balls and extract a winner.

Christopher did, and the lucky “owner” of Ball No. 290 won $1,615. Taliancich consulted the list of balls sold and confirmed the winner as Spyro Contogouris.

In all, 323 balls were sold to benefit the YMCA. In addition to the entry fees for joining the golf tournament, many thousands of dollars were raised to benefit the association.

“It didn’t work out how we expected, but it did work out,” Taliancich said. “We got a winner.”

Speaking of winners, there were four flights of golfers entered in the tournament and each selected its own champion.

The winning quartets were: first flight, Kirk Michel, Brandt Gilbert, Patrick Lewis and Keith Baker; second flight, Ralph

The Cross Gates Family Fitness Reindeer Run will be Dec. 20 near the club’s Military Road location.

The event, which has a 5-kilometer run and a 1-mile Fun Run, will benefit St. Tammany Project Christmas. Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. The 1-mile run begins at 8:30 a.m.

The 5K will start at 9 a.m.

Registration can be completed at the front desk of Cross Gates Family Fitness, 200 N. Military Road just east of Slidell at the end of Gause Boulevard. Registation also is online at www.active.com.

Both races begin at Cross Gates Family Fitness (at Steele Street) The 5K course will travel through the Cross Gates and Turtle Creek subdivisions.

The cost is $25 for the 5K if preregistered, which includes a T-shirt. Race-day registration for the 5K costs $30. Entry into the 1-mile Fun Run is $15, or $30 for the entire family (including reindeer antlers for the kids).

For information, call (985) 643-3500, or visit www. crossgatesclub.com.

Events

as Dec. 13 and Dec. 20 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Age for basketball is the player’s age on Aug. 31, 2014.

Age for soccer is the player’s age on July 31, 2014.

Cost is $75 per person for those who live in the recreation district or $100 if the player lives outside of the district. Fees includes jersey, uniform shorts, insurance and a trophy. A copy of each player’s birth certificate is needed to register. Soccer players who played in the fall season can register for $35, as they already have team assignments and uniforms.

The district also seeks volunteer coaches.

For information, call recreation district director Lisa Palisi at (985) 871-7555.

NATURE WALK: The Northlake Nature Center, at 23135 U.S. 190 east of Mandeville, has a nature walk planned for 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17.

The cost is $5 for nonmembers and free for NNC members. To register, call (985) 626-1238, or email rue@ northlakenature.org for information.

UPWARD BASKETBALL: First Baptist Christian Church, of Slidell, is holding registration for the Upward Basketball League. To register, visit www.fbcslidell.org. Volunteers are needed to help the league operate. For information on volunteering, email Jody Scharfensetein at jody. scharfenstein@fbcslidell.org or call (985) 643-3456.

ABITA SPRINGS LEAGUES: Registration is open for basketball and soccer leagues in St. Tammany Parish Recreation District No. 11 in Abita Springs.

Players ages 11-16 are eligible to play hoops in this round.

Soccer players ages 4-13 can sign up. Registration will continue through Dec. 29 at Charlie Finn Memorial Park, 22516 La. 36, Abita Springs. Send news of sports and recSign-ups will be from 10 a.m. reation activities to StTamuntil 3 p.m. weekdays as well many@theAdvocate.com.

Advocate photos by ANDREW CANULETTE

Pictured at the West St. Tammany YMCA seventh annual Blue Heron Charity Golf Tournament and Great Golf Ball Drop on Nov. 24 at Money Hill Golf and Country Club are, from left, YMCA employee Susan Lockhart; YMCA of Greater New Orleans CEO Gordon Wadge; West St. Tammany YMCA Membership Director Kakki Taliancich; West St. Tammany YMCA board member Lee Alexius; and Money Hill PGA Professional Stephen Christopher.

Menetre, Sandy Menetre, Bob Myers and Brian Myers; third flight, Peter Souloukas, Chris Rose, Rick Smith and Glenn Hanson; and fourth flight, John Shires, Tommy Rodenkirch, Steve Nunnery and Josh Graham.

For more information on the West St. Tammany YMCA, its capital improvement campaign, additional fundraisers, daily programming, or how to volunteer, visit ymcaneworleans.org/ weststtammany or call (985) 893-9622.

The West St. Tammany YMCA is at 71256 Francis Road, just west of Covington off Bootleg- Money Hill Golf and Country Club PGA Professional Stephen Christopher holds the ball drawn in the Great Golf Ball Drop. ger Road.

ROTARY

TIMES

The program needs volunteers of all ages to help prepare and package the turkeys at 9 a.m. Dec. 23-24 at St. Paul’s cafeteria. Volunteers also are needed at 7:30 a.m. Christmas morning at the St. Paul’s cafeteria to deliver Christmas dinners to families in need.

“We have volunteers who brought their children when their children were schoolaged. Those children are now married and come back to volunteer with their children,” Baldwin said.

Visit covrotary.org for club membership information, to donate or to sign up for a volunteer shift. Volunteers also can show up at the designated times and location.

All donations are tax-deductible.

Covington Rotary Club is a service organization made up of local business professionals who work together to make a difference in the community through service projects and fundraising efforts.

The Covington Rotary Club meets at noon on the first and third Tuesday of every month at The Seiler Bar, 434 N. Columbia St., Covington.

Honey Island Elementary Principal Mary Jane Smith said, “All the promise that children have — if we just encourage that and mold that early on, then they can be great leaders. This contest is a venue and a way for them to express themselves and share a positive message.

“Kids learn messages best in their peer group, so when peers talk about making good choices, it rubs off on one another.”

Continued from page 1G

Continued from page 1G

Photo provided by Slidell Toastmasters Club

Among those on hand for a recent meeting of the Slidell Toastmasters Club are, from left, Abe Chaney, Colleen Dale, Marilyn Williams, Randy Fiedler and Derrick Richardson.

Slidell Toastmasters boost communication skills Advocate staff report At a recent meeting of the Slidell Toastmasters Club, Marilyn Williams formally introduced herself to the other members of the club with an icebreaker speech in which she talked about the many life lessons her mother taught her through quips, quotes and idioms.

Colleen Dale was Williams’ evaluator, pointing out what she did well and what she could have done better. The extemporaneous speaking portion of the meeting was handled

by Nancy Pearson, who posed

thought-provoking questions to several members. Derrick Richardson, a guest, was voted best table topics responder.

Abe Chaney, also a guest, was toastmaster of the evening.

Visitors and guests are welcome at meetings of the Slidell Toastmasters, which are held at 7:30 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month in the Florida Avenue conference room at Slidell Memorial Hospital, 1025 Florida Ave., Slidell.

For information, call Art Weller at (985) 649-5698 or Colleen Dale at (985) 847-1714, or visit www.toastmasters.org.

Sharon Edwards is community news editor for The New Orleans Advocate.

Photo provided

Kendall Remerow shows off the winning decorations.

Advocate photo by DEBORAH BURST

Margaret deLaureal, the director of the Christ Episcopal School Discovery Barn, poses for a picture with Clara the swan, a resident of the Discovery Barn.

PROFILE

Continued from page 1G Growing up around many animals, deLaureal said some of her fondest memories are trail riding on horses through the woods.

“I loved to ride bareback on a pony through the woods in the fall and watch all the wildlife,” she said, adding that the fall foliage is beautiful up north. “One time, a deer ran right in front of me and my pony got so nervous that I could feel the vibrations of her heartbeat.”

DeLaureal has a degree in marketing and finance, with the majority of her background in communications and product development.

She also has volunteered with many community fundraisers such as the Harvest Cup Polo Classic.

The CES barn program for the second grade is comprehensive, but all grade levels participate. Each is assigned a different lesson. The high school students gain reflections for their Walt Whitman poems, art classes come to sketch, and the third grade painted a wetlands mural on the side of the barn.

Fourth-graders studied the stages and migration of monarch butterflies. They witnessed all stages of the butterfly’s development — egg to larvae or caterpillar, chrysalis and finally the adult butterfly.

“It is absolutely wonderful for the children to hunt for a chrysalis or butterfly egg and see the brilliance in their eyes when they find one,” deLaureal said. “The fourth grade also comes by for a class called ‘Give a Hoot for Owls.’ ” DeLaureal teaches topics such as the Mississippi Flyway, the Great Migration, balancing predator and prey, as well as lessons on trees

and why weeds are important to monarch butterflies.

The barn opens each day at lunch for grades five and up.

“I set up a variety of special projects for this time slot,” deLaureal said. “Often, the children just want to chill and be heard.”

The barn teams with St. Tammany Parish Animal Services to find homes for abandoned or orphaned domestic animals.

“We foster litters of kittens as well as dogs, guinea pigs, chickens and rabbits that need a home,” deLaureal said, adding that she teaches the children about responsible pet ownership. “Animal Services gets approximately 8,000 animals a year, and the barn makes a tiny dent in trying to bring awareness to the plight of homeless animals.”

The barn continues to expand, including adding a new home for an educational owl.

Not far away is a spacious pen with a pond for Clara, their mute swan, who can now swim in a protected, predator-proof home.

“I am blessed to do what I love,” deLaureal said.

“The magic duo of great kids, amazing school and an engaging naturalist environment make going to work a labor of love.”

The barn has many volunteer opportunities and operates on generous donations from the community. Donations of animal feed, bedding and cleaning supplies are always welcomed.

For information, contact the Christ Episcopal School at 80 Christwood Blvd., call (985) 871-9902, or visit www. christepiscopalschool.org.

Deborah Burst writes about people behind-the-scenes of organizations and events in St. Tammany Parish. To reach her, email deborahburst@gmail.com.

Sip & Stroll an early Christmas present for local businesses

BY ABBY DONALDSON Special to The Advocate

Local businesses and restaurants in Old Mandeville are looking forward to an early Christmas rush, thanks to an upcoming weekend of holiday events.

The weekend of merriment kicks off Friday with the Sip & Stroll and the Dew Drop Christmas concert. The celebration continues all day Saturday, with the Christmas Past Festival, followed by Winter on the Water and Santa’s annual boat parade. “It’s kind of our way of giving back to the other businesses around here,� said Ed Greene, chairperson for the Christmas Past Festival and treasurer for the Old Mandeville Business Association, which hosts the festival and the Sip & Stroll.

The Sip & Stroll is an important holiday event for small businesses in Old Mandeville. The annual event gives community members a chance to visit restaurants and businesses , while enjoying a night of holiday drinks, food and music. “Since Old Mandeville is kind of a hidden gem, not being on the main roads, it’s really great exposure for us,� said Ryan Green, managing partner at Varsity Sports, located at 2021 Claiborne St. in Mandeville.

Varsity Sports, along with more than a dozen other businesses and restaurants in Old Mandeville, will open their doors to strollers from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday Dec. 12. Participants must purchase a Sip & Stroll mug prior to the event. Varying stops along the route offer unique holiday drinks to keep everyone’s mug full. “It gives people a chance to learn about the businesses, and see what they have to offer, when they otherwise might not,�

Greene said.

The stroll also gives small businesses in the area a chance to benefit by working together. “It gives a sense of oneness to the businesses, which are kind of spread out and don’t see each other very often; that we’re all part of a really wonderful event to kick off the holiday season,�

Green said.

The Sip & Stroll has become so popular over the years that mugs sell out more than a month before the event. “We’ve certainly seen it grow,�

Green said. People who missed out on the mug sales don’t have to miss out on the fun though.

According to Greene, interested locals can bring their own mug to the stroll and purchase drink refills along the way.

The stroll includes a live band at K. Gee’s Restaurant, 2534 Florida St. in Mandeville. Or strollers can head down the street to Old Rail Brewing Co. for a refill and a performance by carolers, hosted by the Jane Austin Literary Festival. Old Rail is located at 639 Girod St. in Mandeville.

For participating venues, visit www.oldmandevillebiz.com.

HOLIDAY WEEKEND IN OLD MANDEVILLE

DEW DROP CHRISTMAS CONCERT: 6:30 p.m. Friday. The historic jazz hall concludes its season with a Christmas performance

by New Orleans pianist David Torkanowsky and a special guest who’s sure to impress. Tickets $10 at the door; there will be a raffle drawing for the handmade Jazz Fest quilt. Dew Drop Social and Benevolent Jazz Hall, 430 Lamarque St., Mandeville.

CHRISTMAS PAST FESTIVAL: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. The whole family is invited for a day of holiday fun. The celebration includes caroling, holiday music performances, dancing, scenes from Playmakers’ “Santa on the Bayou� and Ballet Apetrei’s “The Nutcracker� a Scrooge shouting contest, dozens of vendors, a children’s village, crafts, pet adoption, cultural-themed holiday events and possibly even faux snow. Hosted by the Old Mandeville Business Association.

Girod Street in Mandeville.

SNOW VILLAGE AND TRAIN DISPLAY: 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. through New Year’s Day and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13.

Northlake-Mandeville Rotary, in partnership with the city of Mandeville, presents a large, one-ofa-kind model display presented in the windows of Aquarius Pools, 2050 General Pershing St., next to the Mandeville Trailhead.

WINTER ON THE WATER: 4 p.m.

Saturday. Head out to the gazebo on the lakefront to see Benny Grunch & The Bunch perform holiday favorites. The performance is followed by the Santa parade, with antique cars, sleds, horses and marching bands.

Stick around after the parade for the lighting of the oaks and a performance by Ballet Apetrei, introduced by Mayor Donald Vil-

The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, December 11, 2014 F 3G

Clerk,sheriff’s workers donate to Food Bank Advocate staff report

Christmas Under the Stars

Photo provided by DAR

The St. Tammany Chapter NSDAR participated again this year in the city of Slidell’s Christmas under the Stars ‘Parade of Trees’ on view in Griffith Park. Shown decorating the tree with American flags and red, silver and blue stars with the theme ‘Salute to Our Heroes’ are DAR members Karay Klein, Mickie Francioni and Vicki Kirby. Also decorating the tree are stars representing Revolutionary War ancestors of chapter members. lere. The night comes to a close with the annual holiday boat parade hosted by the Pontchartrain Yacht Club. Lakeshore Drive in Mandeville.

EVENT CALENDAR “BABES IN TOYLAND�: 7 p.m.

Thursday. The students of CAST perform the holiday play featuring a combination of nursery rhymes. Additional performances at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Tickets cost $8-$12. The Swan, 70326 La. 59, Abita Springs. “WHEN THE OLDEST BABY JESUS GOT LOST�: 7 p.m. Thursday. A Christmas play about a group of children who go searching for a missing doll when they run into some strange people and hilarious encounters. Performances are at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Dec. 20 and at 7 p.m. Thursday through Sunday and Dec. 19 and 20. Tickets are $8 for ages 10 and younger, $10 for students and $12 for adults. 30 by Ninety Theatre, 3090 East Causeway Approach, Mandeville.

STORY TIME: 10:30 a.m. Friday.

Madisonville author Scott Lemonier introduces his book “Mary and the Octopus.� The cost is one canned good for the Covington Food Bank. To register, email ksupan@stph.org or call (985) 898-4435. St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington.

CHRISTMAS UNDER THE STARS: 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The community is invited out to the park for Christmas lights, Parade of Trees and visits from Mr. and Mrs. Claus. This event is free.

Griffith Park, 333 Erlanger Ave., Slidell.

HOLIDAY OF LIGHTS: 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 12-13. The community is invited to celebrate the holiday with a light display, visits with Santa, children’s rides and live music. 21490 Koop Road, Mandeville. “JUNIE B. JONES, THE MUSICAL�: 7 p.m. Friday; 5 p.m. Saturday. The famous Barbara Park’s books come to life in this musical production. For all ages. Tickets are $12.50-$20. Cutting Edge Theater, 747 Robert Blvd., Slidell.

CHRISTMAS MADRIGAL DINNER THEATER: 7 p.m. Friday; 2 p.m.

Sunday. Tickets $13 for adults, $11 for kids. Call (985) 641-6400 for reservations. Peace Lutheran Church, 1320 W. Gause Blvd., Slidell. “A GOOD OLD FASHIONED REDNECK COUNTRY CHRISTMAS�: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m.

Sunday. Slidell Little Theatre presents a funny Christmas musical about the three wise men if they had been rednecks. Tickets are $15-$22. Slidell Little Theatre, 2024 Nellie Drive, Slidell. “CHRISTMAS ON THE BAYOU�: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m.

Sunday. A performance about Father Adrien Rouquette, Chahta Ima, a priest and poet known for his devotion to helping the Chahta Indians, Native Americans in St. Tammany Parish, 150 years ago. Tickets $8. Playmakers Theater, 19106 Playmakers Road, Covington.

TAMMANY 10K AND ONE-MILE RUN/WALK: 8 a.m. Saturday. $20$35. All ages are invited to run or walk along the Tammany Trace.

The event includes a certified 10K course, prize money, awards and more. The walk is presented by the Slidell Memorial Hospital Foundation. Slidell Trailhead, 2289 U.S. 190, Slidell.

MADISONVILLE ART MARKET: 10 a.m. Saturday. The market includes original paintings, photography, woodworking and more.

This event is held on the second Saturday of every month. Water Street and La. 22, Madisonville.

LIFE ON PAPER CREATIVE WORKSHOP SERIES: 10 a.m. Saturday.

The new program teaches young artists ages 9 to 12, how to use different materials and approaches to document the world around them. Taught by local artist Mia Kaplan, registration is limited. Free. Northlake Nature Center, 23135 U.S. 190, Mandeville.

SEASONAL FUN AT WILDLIFE REFUGE: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Friends of Louisiana Wildlife Refuges invite Mrs. Claus to read Christmas stories while Santa greets kids and families in his Cajun Cottage outpost. Admission, photos, re-

freshments and visits with Santa are all free at the Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center, 61389 La. 434, Lacombe.

OLD FEED STORE MUSIC ENCORE: 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday.

The Potluck String Band plays bluegrass music with special guest artists joining in for an encore concert to the fall Old Feed Story Music Series. The show if free and musicians can join in for the jam session beginning around 4:30. Marsolan’s Feed and Seed Store, 316 E. Gibson St., downtown Covington.

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays till Dec. 31.

Otis House Museum inside Fairview-Riverside State Park.

Candlelight tours 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 13. $2 for visitors ages 13 to 61, others free.

Fairview-Riverside State Park, 119 Fairview Drive, on La. 22, Madisonville. For information, call (985) 792-4652.

NATURE’S ESSENCE — TWO VISIONS OPENING RECEPTION: 6 p.m. Dec. 13. The art exhibit features paintings by Marcia Holmes and Jim Seitz. The exhibit is open Saturday through Feb. 6.

St. Tammany Art Association, 320 N. Columbia St., Covington.

JA TOUR OF HOMES: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Slidell Junior Auxiliary 10th annual Tour of Homes.

Tickets $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Five homes beautifully decorated for the Christmas season with a silent auction, wine tasting and tickets beginning at 1 p.m. at the host home, 532 S. Caleb in the Turtle Creek subdivision on Military Road. For information, visit www.jaslidell.org or call (985) 265-7111.

TEDDY BEAR TEA: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. The Friends of the Northshore Harbor Center will hold a Teddy Bear Tea with holiday songs, storytime with Mrs. Claus and a sing-along and other activities for children, who will have an opportunity to tell Santa how good they’ve been all year. Tickets $40 for adults, $20 for children. Call (985) 781-3850.

Northshore Harbor Center, 100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell.

FROSTY ART CLASS: 2 p.m. Sunday. All ages are invited to learn how to paint Frosty the Snowman. This is a BYOB event. Must be 21 or older to drink, ages 6 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is $25 and includes instruction, art supplies and a take-home canvas. Painting with a Twist, 2121 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville.

MANDEVILLE CONCERTS: 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday. An orchestra of 40 will support a 100-voice choir for Christmas on the Northshore concerts. The collaborative project involves the St. Timothy Choir, Northshore Orchestra, the St. Timothy Youth Chorale and several guest soloists. Each performance will last 75 minutes. The concerts are a gift to the community, with free tickets available by calling the church office at (985) 626-3307.

St. Timothy on the Northshore United Methodist Church, 225 Asbury Drive, Mandeville. “YES VIRGINIA, THE MUSICAL�: 6 p.m. Sunday. A play based on a true story about a little girl who wrote a letter to the New York Sun newspaper in 1897 to ask about Santa. This production is part of the holiday Believe campaign, which benefits Make-A-Wish. $16.

Center of Performing Arts, 201 N. Columbia St., Covington.

FOOTBALL FOR CHARITY: 7:30 p.m. Monday. Head over to watch the Saints-Bears game. The event benefits Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital. The event includes an open bar, auction items and more. Columbia Street Tap Room and Seiler Bar, 434 N. Columbia St., Covington.

LIFE DRAWING GROUP: 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday. Artists can bring their own art supplies for a drawing session that includes 15- to 30-minute poses by a live model, with breaks for wine and cheese.

All levels are invited. For adults, ages 18 or younger must have parent consent. This event is held on the third Tuesday of each month. $20 for members, $25 for nonmembers.

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Jack Strain and Clerk of Court Malise Prieto choose the Food Bank of Covington as the beneficiary of their 2014 employees’ community charity fundraiser.

According to Prieto, the charity was chosen “to help solve the problem of hunger in our community.�

The joint effort of both government agencies yielded needed food items such as pasta, canned goods, beans, rice, pasta, cereal, peanut butter and jelly for the food bank that is located at 840 North Columbia St. in Covington.

According to Terri TurnerMarse, executive director of the Covington Food Bank, one in six children goes to bed hungry in St. Tammany Parish and that poverty is found mostly in rural areas. Thirty-six percent of those in poverty are children and 11 percent are elderly, with the remainder individuals between the ages of 18 and 64 years of age.

A single person who quali-

Photo provided by Clerk of Court

Shown with donations for the Covington Food Bank are, from left, Terri Turner-Marse, executive director of the Covington Food Bank; Clerk of Court Malise Prieto; and Amy Moisant, Finance Department head. fies for benefits through the food bank programs which include food, clothing, dental and emergency assistance has a gross income of $1,265 per month or less. The food bank is currently organizing “staple

boxes� of food that contain 18 items. The community gives 30 percent of the donations needed for the boxes, with additional assistance coming from local agencies and businesses, she said.

Librarian retiring after 14 years It is time to wish our wonderful Miriam “Miss Mim�

Boots, of the Slidell Branch, a fond farewell. Boots, who has served as Slidell’s children’s librarian for the last 14 years, will be retiring at the end of the year.

Asked what was her favorite thing about CHECK IT being the Slidell Branch OUT SHELLIE children’s SAVOY LISTER librarian, Boots replied, “I have enjoyed presenting programs at the library and at schools. I have loved sharing the wealth of great children’s literature with children and their families.�

Boots’ retirement plans include yoga, swimming, biking, traveling with her husband, discussing great books with multiple book clubs and spending time with her twin sister and her family.

Asked what she will miss most about the Slidell Branch, Boots said, “I will miss my library families and my coworkers. I will miss getting hugs from the kids.�

Anyone interesting in wishing Boots well can attend her retirement party featuring a performance by musician Johnette Downing at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 19 at the Slidell Branch, 555 Robert Blvd. For information, call (985) 646-6470.

Programming for Dec. 11 to Dec. 18 includes: SANTA VISIT STORYTIME: Families are invited to listen to a classic holiday story and then visit with the man in red at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the Lee Road Branch, 79213 La. 40; at 10:30 a.m.

Tuesday at the Covington Branch, 310 W. 21st Ave.; and at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Slidell Branch, 555 Robert Blvd. Parents should bring a camera to capture the fun. Call the Lee Road Branch at (985) 893-6284, the Covington Branch at (985) 893-6280 or the Slidell Branch at (985) 646-6470.

TEEN #YUMSNACKS: Teens are invited to make chocolate-covered snacks at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Covington Branch, 310 W. 21st Ave.; at 4 p.m. Tuesday at the Madisonville Branch, 1123 Main St.; and at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Pearl River Branch, 64580 La. 41.

Call the Covington Branch at (985) 893-6280, the Madisonville Branch at (985) 845-4819 or the Pearl River Branch at (985) 863-5518.

UNDER THE COVERS BOOK CLUB: The club will meet to make its 2015 book selections at 1 p.m. Friday at the Folsom Branch, 82393 Railroad Ave. Call branch manager Lynne Moore at (985) 796-9728.

IRISH GENEALOGY: Marguerite Scully will instruct participants on completing

Photo provided by St. Tammany Parish Library

Miriam ‘Miss Mim’ Boots has served as Slidell’s children’s librarian for the last 14 years and will be retiring at the end of the year. genealogical research on Irish immigrants at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Covington Branch, 310 W. 21st Ave. Call (985) 8936280.

TWEEN HOLIDAY BAZAAR: Tweens ages 10 to 14 are invited to an afternoon of holiday fun with crafts, snacks and a Will Ferrell holiday movie screening at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Madisonville Branch, 1123 Main St. Call (985) 845-4819.

E-READER CONSULTATION: Owners of tablets, iPads or other ereaders who want to learn how to download e-books and audiobooks from the library can schedule a consultation with a reference librarian at 2 p.m.

Monday and 5 p.m. Wednesday at the Madisonville Library, 1123 Main St. Call reference librarian Maria Reyes at (985) 845-4819.

TEEN VOLUNTEER COUNCIL: Teens who want to help shape teen services at the library are invited to be part of the Teen Volunteer Council at 6 p.m. Monday at the Mandeville Branch, 844 Girod St. and at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Covington Branch, 310 W. 21st Ave. Teens can earn service hours by participating. Call the Man-

deville Branch at (985) 6264293 or the Covington Branch at (985) 893-6280.

THE CARE AND FEEDING OF WRITING GROUPS: Adults who have dreamed of belonging to a creative writing group will receive advice from experienced writers at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Slidell Branch, 555 Robert Blvd. Call (985) 646-6470.

LAMPLIGHT READERS BOOK CLUB: The club will discuss “A Winter Dream� by Richard Paul Evans at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Madisonville Branch, 1123 Main St. Call librarian Lillie Butler at (985) 845-4819.

LOVE ON A LEASH: Children can practice their reading skills on a trained therapy dog at 4 p.m. Dec. 18 at the Covington Branch, 310 W. 21st Ave. Call (985) 893-6280.

SCRABBLE GAME NIGHT: Teens and adults are invited to test their spelling and strategy skills at 6 p.m. Dec. 18 at the Mandeville Branch, 844 Girod St. Call (985) 626-4293.

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Tuesday, December 16, 2014 at 6:30pm

4G F Thursday, December 11, 2014 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

Advocate photos by MISSIE NOEL

Models at the Northlake Newcomers event were Sherie Linzy, Georgia Canton, Mary Jenks and Patty Mire.

Newcomer models Daralee Musso, Tina Conti, Jan Gennusa and Cindy Geraci.

Thanks,newcomers mark pair of luncheons Northlake Newcomers The lovely ladies of the Northlake Newcomers club recently hosted their Fall Luncheon and Fashion Show at Tchefuncte Country Club in Mandeville. Members modeled the latest fashions from Chico’s, while guests enjoyed dining on Crawfish Monica, Chicken Alfredo and Crème Brûlèe. The event was organized by First Vice President, Mary Lynne Friedman.

The group meets monthly and is not just for ‘new’ members in the community. The organization is a nonprofit that is supportive of local charities and each other.

Other officers include President Dannie Goodwin, Second Vice President Elise Mince, Recording Secretary Cindy Geraci, Corresponding Secretary Mary Yager and Treasurer Lynn Pablovich.

In addition to monthly membership gatherings, the group hosts Afternoons at the Movies, community outreach programs, jewelry making, canasta games, Bunco and book club opportunities.

To learn about the Northlake Newcomers, contact Membership Chairwoman Linda Nichols at (985) 237-9466 or visit its website at www. northlakenewcomers.com.

STARC Thanksgiving Luncheon and Awards STARC has been serving individuals with disabilities on the north shore since 1972. Once a year, the organization gathers clients and caretakers from both the east and west side of the parish for recognition and thanks.

Norman and June Hardy were the hosts of STARC’s recent luncheon. The couple has been hosting the event for the past 33 years.

The event, held at Slidell First Baptist Church, began with an opening song and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Kera Lynn Kirby. Cecelia Barr led

the Pledge to the Christian Flag.

Bruce Thompson performed a very touching version of “Amazing Grace” that set the mood for the thankful and appreciative gathering. Ronnie Kole provided accompaniment for the song and entertained during the entire ceremony.

Named as Kiwanis Aktion Club award recipients were Daneel May, Christina Thoele, D’Andre Randolph, Michael Dalpiaz, Nancy Andrews and Teresa Vathy.

Employer of the Year recognition went to Wendy’s Old Fashioned Hamburger Store.

The Supported Employment award recipient was Kerry Faciane.

Spirit Award honorees included Chad Bickham and Paul Lassalle, and Better Way Service award recipients included Bernell Vaultz, Rita Jenkins, Vincent Michel, Robert Slay, Ray Charles Ruffin, Lynette Earl, Jody Alfonso, Cynthia Shrader, Alan Pittman, Andy Niemand, Obie Boh, D’Andre Randolph, Kiara Larry, Michael Dalpiaz, Jim Troxclair, Glynn Pellegrin, Kim Lowder, Mary Lou Governale, Dina Alfano, Megan Lang, Johnnie Morrison, Kera Lynn Kirby, Chris Songy, Michael Porter and

Helene Soule and Joan Douville at Northlake Newcomers.

Elise Mince and Linda Nichols celebrate fashion with the Newcomers.

TAMMANY SCENE MISSIE NOEL

Gardner and Ronnie Kole at the STARC festivities.

Bruce Thompson leads the audience in ‘Amazing Grace’ at the STARC awards banquet.

The ceremonies concluded following a delicious lunch proved by Chateau Bleu.

Dianne Baham serves as executive director for STARC.

Kari Helwig.

As each award was presented, the consistent comments included “value,” “joy” and “loving spirit.”

Missie Arata Noel is the society and features writer for the St. Tammany Advocate.

She can be contacted by email at jrnoel@ bellsouth.net.

Honoree Cynthia Shrader and STARC staff member Carol White.

Birthday honoree Norman Hardy with June Hardy.

Members of the STARC community spell out ‘WENDY’s’ as an acknowledgment of the company’s designation as STARC’s Employer of the Year.

Family members surround the two young artists that created the annual STARC Christmas cards, including Jaime Guillory and Kera Lynn Kirby.

The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, December 11, 2014 F 5G

FAITH NOTES

Photo provided by WSTC

Shown at the 12th annual St. Tammany West Chamber Business Appreciation Awards luncheon are the 2014 honorees, shown from left, Joel Forjet, Nonna Randazzo’s Italian Bakery; Lisa Condrey Ward, The Southern Hotel; Pat Finger, Pool Corporation; Kathy Williams, K. Gee’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar; Dr. Chip Curtis, All American Healthcare Covington.; and back, Jim Harp, Hornbeck Offshore Services; Brother Ray Bulliard, St. Paul’s School; Evan Rhodes, Money Hill Golf & Country Club; Bret Kolman, Lakeview Regional Medical Center; Ryan Miller, Live Fit Smoothies; and Chris McDonald, Mugshots Grill and Bar. Not pictured is Nick Powers, Old Rail Brewing Company.

ACOUSTIC CHRISTMAS EVE: The Cornerstone outreach band will recreate the atmosphere of the original “Silent Night” during the 11 p.m. Christmas Eve service at First United Methodist Church, 433 Erlanger Ave., Slidell.

“Silent Night” was first performed on Christmas Eve 1818 at the Church of St. Nicholas in Oberndorf, Austria. The church organ was broken, and a song was needed that could be played on guitar.

Band members will not use amplifiers or microphones for this service, and the church

will use low light and candlelight at all services that evening. Many of the most popular Christmas hymns will be sung.

FUMC Slidell will have four services on Christmas Eve: A spontaneous nativity service at 3 p.m., during which adults and children will don traditional costumes of shepherds, angels and wise men; traditional candlelight services with communion at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and “Acoustic Night, Holy Night” at 11 p.m. For information, call the church office at (985) 643-6437.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Chamber lauds top local businesses Advocate staff report To show its appreciation to the local business community, each year, the St. Tammany West Chamber asks St. Tammany citizens to nominate businesses that have made an impression on the parish to be considered for the chamber’s prestigious Business Appreciation Awards.

The winners of the 12th annual awards: n All American Healthcare Covington won the Service with a Smile Award, given to a company known for its outstanding customer service. n K. Gee’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar was awarded the Go

Give Award, which celebrates a company that encourages employee involvement in the community. n Lakeview Regional Medical Center was given the Innovation Award, for a company that is a leader in technological change. n Three Site to See Awards were given to business locations that enhance the appearance of the community, including The Southern Hotel, Covington; Old Rail Brewery Company, Mandeville; and Money Hill Golf & Country Club, Abita Springs. n The Out of the Gate Running Award for big business was given to Mugshots Grill

Advocate photos by KATHLEEN DESHOTEL

Deciding on the proper perspective and placement of trees and sun rays, Gray plans elements of ‘Old Road to Del Rio.’

and Bar, and Live Fit Smoothies LLC won for small business.

These awards are given to businesses that have successfully been in operation for less than three years and have positively contributed to the community. n Nonna Randazzo’s Italian Bakery won the All in the Family Award, which honors an establishment that is a successful, family-owned business. n St. Paul’s School won the Legacy Award, celebrating a thriving business that has been in operation for more than 20 years and has made a long-term commitment to preserving the integrity and character of St. Tammany Parish. n Pool Corporation won the

Employee Training Award, given to a business that supports employees’ continuing education throughout their careers. n Hornbeck Offshore Services Inc. was awarded the Tammany Proud Award, which honors a business that does work outside of the southeast Louisiana area and has fostered a positive image of St. Tammany Parish.

Award winners were announced at the chamber’s annual Business Appreciation Awards luncheon at the Clarion Inn and Suites in Covington, sponsored

by Gulf Coast Bank & Trust.

For more information on the St. Tammany West Chamber, visit sttammanychamber.org.

ABOVE: Much like the impressionists, Gray captures outdoor scenes in natural light, concentrating on landscape, as in ‘The Painter’s Daughter.’ LEFT: Having spent five years in central Mexico, Gray gained an appreciation for Mexican history, culture and scenery. ‘Heroes of the Revolution’ shows the beginnings of his current style.

Gray transforms energy into dreamlike reality Art comes from within, and art is innate, according to William Byron Gray. He credits family characteristics for successes in his life.

“From my mother’s side of the family, I inherited artistic ability. From my father’s side, I inherited an excellent work ethic,” he said.

Hence, he balanced school and work and made the most he could out of every situation in which he found himself.

Throughout, he was able to practice the art that teachers noticed and encouraged as early as first grade.

Taking art classes in college, he felt encouraged that each of his professors actually purchased a piece of his art, he said. This validated his love of art.

After three years of college, Gray was able to combine work with his artistic eye, and in 1967, he became a window decorator. He worked mainly for gas and electric companies, using the Reddy Kilowatt character in designs.

By the ’70s, he was a husband and father, and he increased his income by working as a freelance professional deep sea diver. He is proud of his career and his family, but during those years, he said, his art was on hold.

Ultimately, he met entrepreneur William J. Doré, who was starting a diving business. A group of men worked hard and made money for Doré and for themselves over a 25-year career doing underwater construction. At the turn of the century, he retired and moved to central Mexico.

“Our quaint Mexican home was a short distance from the largest Mexican lake.

Dotted along the lakeshores are small, timeless fishing villages. These hamlets draw artists and writers from around the world. The culture, and the Mexican mural painters, cemented the style and CULTURAL mission of my COLLAGE work today,” he KATHLEEN said. It is a time DESHOTEL reflected in his painting “Heroes of the Revolution.”

After Mexico, he and his wife Sally moved back to the States and settled in Mandeville, where he now paints prolifically. Acrylics are done in a spare bedroom studio. Oils are painted in an outdoor studio, next to a flawless garden where huge cauliflower and Brussels sprouts grow.

“Now that I am retired, I can paint every day for pure enjoyment,” he said. In the house, he is working on a scenery, “Old Road to Del Rio,” in which he wants to show sun rays washing over a stone bridge. His outdoor studio provides a spot to work in oils on a series of scenes of Africa.

“I have been compared to Van Gogh and to Monet, but I am neither,” he said. “I am a product of my own set of experiences. I see a scene, conceive an image and work toward creating it through perception, color, form and shape.”

He feels that much of what artists do cannot be taught be-

cause the products are based in personal reflection on scenes that talk to them.

“I feel the energy of dancers, roughnecks, migrant workers, prize fighters as well as a shadow of a tree or the summer steam on a hot highway; these all inspire me to paint,” he said. It is this same awareness that he wants to bring to the viewer of his work.

“I want to make them think, believe in the meaning and reflect on the image that talks to them for even a split second.”

His work is a dreamlike reality that, as with the impressionists, focuses on light, color and feeling within a moment’s visual impression.

For Gray, the products are captivating for eyes to study and absorb.

“The Baptism,” his most recent Best of Show winner in the Slidell Art League exhibit, pulled people in like magnets to stop and stare and perhaps make up their own stories about the rich imagery.

A line in a poem he wrote to his daughter said, “And as nature will provide so shall we share life together: with peace, with truth, with harmony.” The emotion of the poem reflects also the harmony found in his paintings, where balance, texture, space, form, color and movement captivate the viewer’s thoughts and feelings.

In the future, he plans to create more abstract paintings that are still based in something real. Thus far, all of his works are in private collections, in his own home or

in his daughter’s home. Gray said he feels ready to pursue a more professional avenue and put his work on display where it can be purchased.

For information about his art, email bysallyg70@gmail. com.

Kathleen DesHotel writes about the cultural arts in St. Tammany. To reach her, email kathleenfocused@gmail.com.

Photos provided by Professional Women of St. Tammany

2014 Woman of the Year Donna O’Daniels, left, is seen with Dalyce Burvant, of Charter Business, which sponsored the award.

WOMAN OF THE YEAR: Donna O’Daniels has been chosen as the 2014 Woman of the Year

by Professional Women of St. Tammany. The other nominees were Barbara Doyle, Annie Glover and Linda Larkin.

The keynote speaker at the awards banquet was Lauren LeBlanc, of Fleurty Girl, and the senior sponsor of the banquet was Home Bank.

Professional Women of St. Tammany was recently formed to provide educational workshops throughout the year and encourage networking. For membership information, visit www.pw-st.org.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: Business owners can learn about how the East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce can promote their business and help it grow during a free Chamber 101 workshop from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, in the board room at the Chamber offices, 1808 Front St., Slidell. To register, visit www.estchamber.com or call (985) 643-5678.

NORTHSHORE RISING PROFESSIONAL: Maryellen Kanode has completed a year of service as the St. Tammany West Chamber of Commerce NRP chairwoman.

The 2015 NRP Executive Committee is Ryan Pearce, chair; Raynah Cullen, membership chair; Jen Meeks, education chair; J.R. Portman, communications chair; Trip Keller,community outreach chair; and Amanda Dillard, treasurer.

The NRP will hold its Christmas Party Thursday, Dec. 11 at Mugshots Bar. For information, contact Kanode at pr@rehabdynamic-

Allyson McMahon, left, is seen with Lauren LeBlanc, of Fleurty Girl, guest speaker at the awards banquet. sllc.com.

EYP HOLIDAY PROJECT: Emerging Young Professionals are collecting supplies for soldiers deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan in conjunction with the Slidell Ladies for Liberty.

Items needed include toothbrushes, toothpaste, body wash, deodorant, lotions, insole supports for their boots, flyswatters, socks, paperback books, magazines, DVDs, pillows, sheets, and snacks, as well as handwritten Christmas cards and thank-you notes.

Cash donations are welcomed, and checks can be made payable to ‘Slidell Ladies for Liberty postage account.’

Drop off locations include the East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce, 1808 Front St., Slidell. For information, call Linda Larkin at (985) 8470557.

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6G F Thursday, December 11, 2014 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

Covington enters Cleanest City contest Advocate staff report The city of Covington recently announced that the Covington Garden Club has partnered with the city and Keep Covington Beautiful to enter Covington in the 57th annual Louisiana Garden Club Federation’s Cleanest City Contest.

Covington Garden Club CCC committee members recently met with city staff to discuss ongoing activities and generate plans for the competition.

Covington’s theme for 2015 is “Think Clean?…Think Covington!”

Mayor Mike Cooper credits the ongoing efforts of several service organizations such as Covington Garden Club, Keep Covington Beautiful and the Covington Kiwanis with helping to keep Covington clean all year long.

“Our city employees and our citizens strive to sustain a clean and lovely environment, enhancing our community and neighborhoods. We enjoy participating in the LGCF Cleanest City Contest and appreciate the recognition it affords to

Photo provided by city of Covington

Shown at a planning meeting for the 2015 Cleanest City competition are Betty Cronin, Covington Garden Club Cleanest City Contest 2015 chairwoman; Priscilla Floca, Keep Covington Beautiful executive director; Betty Plummer, Covington Garden Club; Dorothy Delaune, Covington Garden Club; Jan Pesses, Covington Garden Club; and Kyle Martin, Covington Garden Club president. Also attending were Pam Keller, mayor’s executive assistant for special projects, and Aimee Faucheux, Cultural Arts and Events manager. those who are passionate in the mission of keeping our community clean,” Cooper said.

According to Keep Covington Beautiful, through the efforts of the federation, Louisiana was the first state to realize the importance of cleaning the environment and implemented a

program to do something about it and is now working hand in hand with other organizations such as Keep Louisiana Beautiful and Keep America Beautiful to achieve this goal.

Louisiana is still the only state to have such a program, and the Cleanest City Contest

is specifically designed to help cities clean up and help communities work together toward the common goal of having a clean city.

The contest is divided into 10 categories according to population. There is an overall winner in each category.

To be successful, “Think Clean?...Think Covington!” will need support from the citizens of Covington, businesses, community organizations, churches and schools.

Those who want to support or volunteer for cleanup activities can email covingtoncleanestcity2015@ gmail.com.

“Covington needs all of us to pitch in and keep it the community we love,” said Betty Cronin, Covington Garden Club Cleanest City Contest 2015 chairwoman.

The judging of the contest is traditionally held in early spring and will take place in Covington on March 18.

Additional information and contest updates can be found on the city’s website at www. covla.com.

Photo provided by West St. Tammany Exchange Club

Club hears about foster-family issues

Devan Peterson, foster youth activist, was guest speaker at a West St. Tammany Exchange Club meeting. From left are Clay Madden, chairman of the club’s Child Abuse Prevention Committee; Peterson; and club President Larry Ward.

Slidell Little Theatre seeks poster artists Advocate staff report The Slidell Little Theatre is accepting applications through Dec. 19 from artists and graphic designers who would like to create posters for shows in 2015-16.

Interested artists and graphic designers should submit samples of their work electronically by emailing digital files to slidelllittletheatre1963@ gmail.com or calling (985) 2889517 to make other arrange-

ments.

Artists should provide at least three examples of their work that best demonstrate their skill and artistry. Offering designs for a theoretical show or actual posters you have designed would be wellreceived.

Artists will be recognized throughout the season in various formats for their generous donation of time and talent. Selected artists will be working under a very tight deadline.

HEALTH BRIEFS

Veterans Day program

Photo provided by Lyon Elementary School

Students and teachers of Lyon Elementary School recently attended a program to honor all veterans. Students invited family members who have served or are presently serving in the military and presented the visitors with facts and information on Veterans Day. Marsha Sykes’ second- and third-grade chorus sang patriotic songs. Shown are, from left, secondgrade chorus members Mason Westbrook, Kara Schexnaildre, Ronald Robinson, Jayden Reppel and Damiyan Sutton.

Honoring veterans

Photo provided by Our Lady of the Lake Roman Catholic School

Our Lady of the Lake Roman Catholic School’s Parent Teacher Cooperative Club celebrated Veterans Day with a memorial wall honoring veterans who were relatives or family members of the OLL students. Shown at the wall of the Mandeville school are, from left, Shiloh Melerine, Edward Pope, Rebecca Frank and Andrew Dunne.

NURSING RESIDENTS GRADUATE: Five registered nurses recently completed the nursing residency program at St. Tammany Parish Hospital: Haley Hughes, Ashley Aquistapace, Kristen Bernard, Lindsey Oliver and Laken Lee. “These nurses represent the cream of the crop among our local nursing programs,” chief nursing officer Kerry Milton said.

The nursing residency program was created in 2011 to offer recently graduated nurses the opportunity to build a solid professional foundation through mentoring in the area of skills development, clinical decisionmaking and teamwork. Since its inception, 44 nurses have completed the program.

CAREGIVERSUPPORT: A Caring for the Caregiver support group will meet at 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at the Paul D. Cordes Outpatient Pavilion, 16300 La. 1085, Covington. For information, call (985) 898-4406.

AUXILIARY FUNDRAISER: The Volunteer Auxiliary at Lakeview Regional Medical Center will hold a one-stop shopping fundraiser from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Dec. 11 and 12, in the front hallway of the hospital, 95 Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington.

Proceeds will benefit auxiliary charities.

BREAST-FEEDING CLINIC: Lactation consultants will offer support and encouragement at 9:30 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 13, in the Florida Avenue conference room at Slidell Memorial Hospital, 1025 Florida Ave., Slidell. The fee is $25 if not preregistered at SMH. To register, call (985) 280-8585 or visit slidellmemorial.org.

NEW BABY SUPPORT GROUP: Mothers gather with their little ones, from birth to 7 months, to discuss child development and parenting tips with other parents as well as professionals at 11:15 a.m. every Thursday at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. Free.

To register or for information, contact ksupan@stph.org or (985) 898-4435.

LOOKGOOD...FEELBETTER: Women undergoing radiation and chemotherapy for cancer can get free

Photo provided by St. Tammany Parish Hospital

Registered nurses who recently completed the 14-week nursing residency program at St. Tammany Parish Hospital are, from left, Haley Hughes, Ashley Aquistapace, Kristen Bernard, Lindsey Oliver and Laken Lee.

Photo provided by Professional Women of St. Tammany

The Volunteer Auxiliary of Lakeview Regional Medical Center and Professional Women of St. Tammany held a holiday bazaar at the Covington hospital on Nov. 4.

Among the shoppers were, from left, Kelly Wursteisen, Diane Pierce and Mary Byrd. skin care products, step-by-step demonstrations and great support from this program, which will meet from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 15, at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1203 S. Tyler St., Covington. For information, call Debbie Miller at (985) 898-4581.

YOGA FOR CANCER PATIENTS: Free yoga classes for cancer patients and caregivers will be offered at 5:30 p.m. Mondays, Dec. 15, 22 and 29, on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center, Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell. There is no charge, but registration and a medical release are required. For information, call (985) 280-6600.

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP: Adults with types 1 or 2 diabetes and their family members may bene-

fit from a diabetes support group at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 15, in the first-floor conference room of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Founders Building, 1150 Robert Blvd. No registration required.

Call (985) 280-1554 or email paula.brown@slidellmemorial. org for monthly topics.

CROHN’S DISEASE SUPPORT GROUP: A Crohn’s disease support group will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, in the Mandeville Room at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1203 S. Tyler St., Covington. For information, call Sean Michael at (504) 512-1760.

ZUMBA CLASSES FOR CANCER PATIENTS: Free low-impact, Latin-inspired dance-fitness classes will meet at 5 p.m. Wednesdays, Dec. 17, 24 and 31, on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center, Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell.

SLIDELL AUTISM SUPPORT GROUP: Strengthening Outcomes with Autism Resources will meet at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center, Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell. For information, call Anne Galiano at (985) 718-0432.

SURVIVE DAT!: A breast cancer support group for young survivors will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, 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.

Slidell teenagers learn about volunteerism Advocate staff report The theme for the Juniors in Service class of 2014-15 is “Live more, laugh more, serve more.” Class orientation took place recently in the DuBuisson Gallery in Slidell.

Juniors in Service is a project of Junior Auxiliary of Slidell that introduces high school juniors to the value of volunteerism. Mentors guide the students through their participation in programs such as Keep Slidell Beautiful, Habitat for Humanity Build, Veterans Appreciation Reception, Toys for Tots and Special Olympics.

For information, visit JASlidell.org.

Photo provided by Junior Auxiliary of Slidell

Members of the Juniors in Service class of 2014-15 are, in alphabetical order, Summer Alabsa, Alex Barron, Erica Bennett, Missy Boyanton, Chloe Bryars, Breanna Burk, Chad Carter, Torri Chapman, Brittany Chetta, Bryce Connault, Miranda Cottingham, Kerry Dangerfield III, Rachel Edwards, Farrah Flattman, Kyle Gambrell, Jared Headrick, Kevin Huynh, Karly Johnson, Sam Lawson, Rebecca Madere, Allison Miller, Sonali Mirpuri, Riley Morris, BlaikeLee Ordes, Megan Paretti, Dana Park, Jennifer Parks, Asiana Richard, Katherine Simmers, Sydney St. Pierre, Joseph White and Daminika Williamson.

The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, December 11, 2014 F 7G

NEIGHBORHOOD BRIEFS

Photo provided by Fontainebleau High

Participants with speaking parts in the Fontainebleau High Veterans Day program are, front row from left, Sydnie White, Olivia Wehrman, Alex West, Annie Xia and Angelle Martin; and back row, Maddie Moore, Landyn Froberg, Taylor Barnhart, Abigail Desposito, Christian Bobo, Mia Casabat and Summer Seal.

SCHOOL BRIEFS ST. PAUL’S LUMINARIES: The Student Council at St. Paul’s School will hold a luminaries celebration beginning at dusk Thursday, Dec. 11, at the school, 917 S. Jahncke Ave., Covington.

More than 3,000 candles will line walkways and the pond, and there will be caroling in Founder’s Circle, a prayer service in the chapel and a reception in the cafeteria. The candles burn long into the night, providing appealing opportunities to drive through and stay in the car. For information, call (985) 892-3200.

VETERANS PROGRAM: Fontainebleau Junior High presented its annual Veterans Day Program that included a choral reading of the Pledge of Allegiance; presentation of colors by the Fontainebleau High School JROTC Color Guard; the national anthem by the FJH chorus and band; “America the Beautiful� performed by Talented Music students Doris Igrec on piano, Hayden Goertz on cello and Brian Forrest on violin; FJH chorus singing “Thank You Soldiers�; a “Red, White and Blue� presentation in which the colors of the American flag were explained;

marches of the Armed Forces played and sung by the band and chorus; and “Hymn to the Fallen� by the band with a special PowerPoint presentation honoring veterans of all wars.

The program concluded with the playing of taps by eighthgrader Mikayla Jeneske, and the retiring of the colors by the Color Guard. All invited guests and students were invited to the library for a reception in their honor with sweets provided by FJH faculty and staff.

GLOBAL TIES: Students and teachers at St. Paul’s School had a visit recently from a representative of the Covington school’s brother school in Marsabit, Kenya.

St. Paul’s School in Kenya has been paired with St. Paul’s School on the north shore since 1997, and weekly mission collections from Louisiana are an important contribution to the well-being of the African school.

Brother Ghebrehesus Habte is the visitor of the Lwanga District, where 103 Christian Brothers and 1,071 teachers meet the needs of 13,447 students in child rescue centers and agricultural, secondary

Photo provided by Fontainebleau High

Mikayla Jeneske plays taps with the Fontainebleau High JROTC Color Guard in the background at the school’s Veterans Day program. and higher education schools.

Many of the students in these schools have financial needs, and some do not have families.

Schools are paired to help the needier schools achieve financial self-sufficiency in the long term.

Learning about the Kenyan school gave those at St. Paul’s

in Covington an overwhelming sense of belonging to the Christian Brothers’ worldwide community.

RETIRED SCHOOL EMPLOYEES: The St. Tammany Retired School Employees Association will hold its Dec. 11 meeting and annual Christmas party at 11 a.m. in the David Treen Technology Center, 2024 Livingston St., Mandeville. “We always look forward to this holiday meeting each year, and we invite all members to join in the celebration and fellowship, as we continue this much-loved tradition,� STRSEA Co-president Marian Arrowsmith said.

All those attending the meeting are asked to bring a covered dish, salad or dessert for the Christmas luncheon.

Anyone wishing to donate a gift for the door prize portion of the meeting is asked to bring a prize as well.

The program will include a special guest, state Rep. John Bel Edwards, to discuss public education topics in the state. In keeping with the season, caroling and fellowship will follow.

For a one-time-only fee of $45, the STRSEA offers a lifetime membership that entitles St. Tammany retirees to vote on association matters, furnishes an identification card for free admission to all home games at school system athletic events and provides a St. Tammany Advantage Rewards card for discounts at participating local businesses and restaurants.

Retirees may join the association at any regularly scheduled meeting or by contacting Arrowsmith at (985) 626-5880 or visit sttammanyretirees.org.

USED-BOOK SALE: The Friends of the Slidell Library will hold a used-book sale on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 12-13, in the meeting room of the library, 555 Robert Blvd., Slidell.

The sale from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Friday will be for members only; memberships will be available at the door for $5.

The sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday will be open to the public. Prices range from 10 cents for magazines to $1 for hardback books. Certain books in special collections, such as popular culture and cookbooks, will range from $1 to $3.

Proceeds from the sale will support the Slidell, Pearl River and Lacombe branch libraries.

Recent purchases include artwork for the Slidell Branch Li-

brary and a circulation desk for the Pearl River Branch Library.

For information, contact the Friends of the Slidell Library at fsl70458@yahoo.com.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT: People caring for senior adults will gather in Slidell and Covington this week to share experiences, strengths and difficulties, in order to help one another cope and solve common problems.

The meetings are sponsored by the community services department of the Council on Aging of St. Tammany.

In Slidell, meetings will be at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at the Slidell Senior Center, 610 Cousin St. In Covington, a meeting will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, at the Covington Senior Center, Greater Starlight Baptist Church, 513 W. 28th Ave. To register or to get information, call the COAST community services department at (985) 892-0377. The COAST website is at www.COASTSeniors.org.

BRING IT HOME TOY DISTRIBUTION: Bring It Home Northshore helps those currently deployed with the armed forces who have children. Bring It Home Northshore’s Holiday Toy Distribution will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 at the American Legion Post 185, Slidell.

All military families are welcome. Toys are best suited for children ages 3 to 9.

Information for families is available at bringithomens.org/ home.

BAYOU CHRISTMAS: Light displays and live entertainment will be among the attractions at Slidell’s Bayou Christmas, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Dec. 18-24 at Heritage Park, 1701 Bayou Lane, Slidell. There will be extended hours from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 19 and 20.

There will be 25 light displays, with more than 60,000 lights set to music. The free event is a fundraiser for the Slidell Unit of the Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Louisiana, and will also feature activities for children, handcrafted gifts, photos with Santa and a scavenger hunt. Visitors can enter at the intersection of U.S. 11 and Fremaux Avenue.

Photo provided by St. Paul’s School

From left are Brother Louis Welker; Brother Duane Gregory; Brother Ghebreyesus Habte; Gina Hall, academic counselor at St. Paul’s; Brother Jerry Vincent; and Charlie Legendre, director of the office of education for the San Francisco New Orleans District.

Talented Theater students celebrate veterans events.

The Talented Arts Program The Talented Theater stu- Festival, which was held at dents from Bonne Ecole El- Koop Drive Park in Covington, ementary, Florida Avenue El- celebrated the spirit of “Amerementary and Carolyn Park icana,� and the students perMiddle School recently par- formed a skit based on “Duck ticipated in two special local for President� and the Andrews Advocate staff report

Sisters’ “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree.�

The students also performed for the Bonne Ecole Veterans Day celebration. Attending were honored veterans, parents, family members and faculty.

Talented Theater students who recently performed include, from left, Alaina Hughes, Gabrielle St. Pierre, Trenton Gilmore and Morgan Parker with Talented Theater teacher Diana LaSalla.

Photo provided by Bonne Ecole Elementary

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