The St. Tammany Advocate (01/08/15)

WHAT TO DO IN TAMMANY?

THE ST.TAMMANY

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THURSDAY JANUARY 8, 2015 H

COVINGTON • FOLSOM • LACOMBE • MADISONVILLE • MANDEVILLE • SLIDELL THENEWORLEANSADVOCATE.COM

Sharon Edwards

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TAMMANY TIMES SEDWARDS@THEADVOCATE.COM

Season means time for seedlings In Louisiana, Arbor Day is celebrated the third Friday in January, and that always seemed strange to me. Already I’ve covered plants, uncovered plants, recovered and uncovered them again in hopes of protecting them from early morning frost and freezes.

And while National Arbor Day is the last Friday in April, many states observe the day to coincide with the best tree-planting weather.

And January is the perfect time to plant seedlings in Louisiana, according to Priscilla Floca, executive director of Keep Covington Beautiful. They don’t need protection, it turns out.

“They are dormant, so you don’t have to protect them other than to protect them from being stepped on or run over by a lawn mower,” she said. Planting can continue throughout the cold months of February and March.

To encourage more planting, KCB will celebrate Louisiana Arbor Day with its annual tree giveaway beginning at 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 17 at the Covington Farmers Market. They will have a booth set up to distribute a variety of native bare-root seedlings such as buttonbush, mayhaw, chickasaw plum, bald cypress, longleaf pine and white oak until noon, or until the seedlings are gone.

The seedlings should be planted right away, Floca said. Volunteers are needed to help wrap the seedlings and hand them out.

KCB is also asking people to send photos of favorite trees in their yard or around Covington with the location of the tree and a short explanation of why they like it. The photos will be used to illustrate how trees add to Covington’s unique character, and are part of a $7,500 Urban and Community Forestry grant to develop a prototype for a Master Tree Planting Plan.

For information, email kcb@covla.com; call (985) 867-3652; or visit www. keepcovingtonbeautiful.org.

follow the Casimir Krycki, 4, right, checks out a sign with book pages as he and Teddy Fay, 4, walk the trail during the first StoryWalk on Friday at the Northlake Nature Center near Mandeville.

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

BY MISSIE NOEL

Special to The Advocate Several local heroes have stepped up to pledge their support for Safe Harbor. They will be recognized Jan. 25 at the annual Real Men of St. Tammany Parish gala beginning at 6 p.m. at the Northshore Harbor Center, 100 Harbor Center Blvd. in Slidell.

The event gives the men the opportunity to expand community awareness and raise money to support the cause against domestic violence in St. Tammany Parish, with all funds going to the Safe Harbor domestic violence shelter.

Each candidate is vying to raise the most money by receiving donations and votes online. Each vote costs $10, and can be made at safeharbor northshore.org. The winner of the Real Men challenge will be announced the night of the gala.

Tickets are $100 a person and guests can look forward to silent and live auctions, in addition to entertainment by the band Witness. The theme äSee REAL MEN, page 3G

Advocate photo by DEBORAH BURST

Melissa Pearson, a massage therapist, shares her New Year’s resolutions.

Advocate staff photos by SCOTT THRELKELD

Vera Grauch, 2, of Covington, gets a lift hopping and skipping from her mother, Katie Grauch, and uncle Ethan Rault as her grandparents Mel and Carolyn Rault join in the fun during the first StoryWalk on Friday. Parents and children were given party favors for a self-directed walk in the nature center. They read selections of ‘I’m Invited to a Party,’ by Mo Willems, that were posted along the way and contained directives for silly fun, such as skipping along a path or pretending to swim across a pond or putting on a funny moustache.

Candace Perilloux, a children’s librarian at the Causeway Branch Library in Mandeville, right, hands party favors to Veronica Ise, 8, and Veronica’s mother, Erica Ise, during StoryWalk.

B

ooks came alive outdoors and children and

their families walked, hopped and spun

through the reading of “I’m Invited to a

Party!” by Mo Willems at the Northlake Nature

Learn more with Master Gardeners

St. Tammany Master Gardeners will present “Right Plant, Right Place,” from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15 at the Madisonville Library, 1123 Main St.; and 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 17, at Slidell Library, 555 Robert Blvd. The Louisiana Yards and Neighborhoods class is designed to encourage homeowners to create and maintain landscapes in ways that minimize environmental damage.

Learn facts about watering, fertilizing, composting, and pest and weed control.

The class is free. Register online at register.stpl.us/ evanced/lib/eventcalendar. asp or call the Madisonville Library at (985) 845-4819 or the Slidell Library at (985) 646-6470.

trail, tale

Real Men try to get votes to support Safe Harbor

Center in Mandeville.

Bailey Route, 8, of Covington, flaps her arms up and down and yells ‘Party! Party!’ during the first StoryWalk on Friday at the Northlake Nature Center near Mandeville. ‘It was my favorite thing to do,’ Route said.

A collaboration between the St. Tammany Parish

Library system and the Northlake Nature Center, the StoryWalk Project was created by Anne Ferguson, of Montpelier, Vermont, and developed in collaboration with the Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian Coalition and the Kellogg Hubbard Library.

Therapist offers massage class for caregivers A new year often brings a renewed spirit not only for ourselves but those we care for. In addition to a healthy diet, a soothing massage may be the answer to eliminating stress, pain and depression.

Melissa Pearson, a massage therapist, is co-owner of Covington Massage & Wellness Centre in downtown Covington that is offering a Massage for the Caregiver Workshop at 2 p.m. Saturday. The workshop will include lecture, demonstration and IN hands-on practice.

PROFILE In addition to nurses and home DEBORAH health care providers, the class is BURST also for anyone who cares for the elderly, disabled, homebound or developmentally delayed.

Pearson believes that the body is a self-healing mechanism and massage is a big part in bringing balance and performing preventive maintenance.

“It releases serotonin and dopamine in your brain, improves immune, cardiovascular and digestive functions and induces the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest system, as opposed to the sympathetic, or ‘fight or flight,’ system),” she said. “There are the obvious benefits to the muscular-skeletal system, places where you hold tension in the body caused by mental and emotional stresses, and massage helps release the physical tension, which helps release the mental/ äSee IN PROFILE, page 3G

Gumbo cook-off sets teams in competition to raise funds

BY ANDREW CANULETTE

Women in Construction and Homeless Outreach for Youth in St. Tammany.

Cook-off organizers are hopThe sixth annual Northshore Gumbo Cook-Off will be held ing to attract 30 teams to this Feb. 28 at Slidell Little The- year’s event. Teams of as many atre, but it’s not too early to as five members will vie for register a team or to sponsor the best dishes in a seafood gumbo category, as well as a the popular fundraiser.

The cook-off is being hosted “meat gumbo,” which is anyby and will benefit Slidell Lit- thing other than seafood as the tle Theatre, the local chapter staple. If at least three food of the National Association of purveyors join the competi-

Special to The Advocate

tion, there also will be a commercial cooking category.

Teams must supply six gallons of gumbo for the public to sample. Cook-off organizers will provide bowls, spoons and rice. Cost to enter a team is $75, which includes a bottomless bowl of gumbo for up to five team members. Awards will be presented, and a booth decorating contest will be part of the festivities, as well.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been able to eat all of the gumbos,” event official Christine Barnhill said. “There are that many out there, and they’re all really good.”

For the first time, the cookoff will be held at Slidell Little Theatre. The event was held at the Slidell Municipal Auditorium prior to Hurricane Isaac, then moved to another civic location in Olde Towne. For the

past two years, the Northshore Gumbo Cook-off has been held at Bethany Lutheran Church.

Funds raised at the cook-off will be shared equally between the three nonprofits. SLT will direct its proceeds toward the “Next Stage” project, which Barnhill said will allow the theater to provide additional space and subsequently enäSee GUMBO, page 3G

2G F Thursday, January 8, 2015 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

Rachel Sanderson, Ethan Moore and Michael Sanderson prepare to spread the Christmas spirit at the Rotary event.

Event coordinator John Baldwin

Madi, Donna and Olivia Shoemake at the Rotary ‘Feeding the Needy’ event

Jamie and Jonathan Alford on Christmas morning

FEED AND SUSTAIN

Covington Rotary provides Christmas cheer

Reagan Hill, Kim Hill, Ryan Hill, Linda Abbott, Burt Long and Jack Long Mia Chiota, Aimee’ Sunseri and Jack Sunseri

Sant at (985) 705-9885 or visit www.covrotary. org.

The Covington Rotary Club completed their fourth annual “Feeding the Needy” event on Junior League Sustainer of the Year Christmas morning.

Each package delivered on Christmas mornThe Junior League of Greater Covington ing included a 13-pound cooked turkey, cranrecently gathered at the home of Sonia York in berry sauce, mashed potatoes, gravy, yams, Covington to celebrate their annual Sustainer green peas, cornbread mix and dessert.

Brunch.

More than 150 volunteers helped packLocal attorney Leigh Anne Wall was age the meals in the days leading up to named as the 2014 Sustainer of the Year.

Christmas, and then met in the cafeteria Accolades and congratulations flowed at St. Paul’s School in Covington to refor this outstanding, former president of ceive the distribution list and maps. Dethe league. liveries were made throughout St. TamThe York home in north Covington many and Washington parishes. was beautifully decorated for the event, The group raised the more than $50,000 with festive greenery and poinsettias needed for the event at a luncheon host- TAMMANY arranged in every corner. The home feaed in mid-November. However, donations SCENE tures unique artwork and treasures from still are being accepted to help defer the MISSIE the homeowner’s travels throughout the costs. world.

NOEL John Baldwin serves as the chairman Guests were treated to an array of and founder of the event and shared, “The sumptuous meats and culinary delights, purpose of this program is not only to supply as well as appetizers and menu items taken needy families in the area with food on Christfrom the group’s award-winning cookbook, mas Day, but also to provide food for children “Roux to Do.” The book is listed as the “Ofwho may depend on the meal they receive at ficial Cookbook of St. Tammany Parish” and is school as their main source of nutrition and are a regional winner of the TTabasco Community unable to receive it during the holidays.”

Cookbook Award.” The book can be ordered by Baldwin led everyone gathered in St. Paul’s email at jl_covingtonRTD@bellsouth.net. Procafeteria early Christmas morning in a prayer, ceeds from the sale of the cookbook help mainand thanked the community donors who helped tain the league’s many community projects, make the event possible, including Internaincluding Career Corner, Girl’s Health Day, tional Paper, who custom designed the boxes Project Prom and Read for the Record. for the meal delivery.

The group is also in partnership with St. Of special note at the event was volunteer Tammany Parish to promote and build the ChilBrandon Walther, a former student at St. Paul’s, dren’s Museum of St. Tammany. The museum’s who has been an integral part of the event evannual fundraiser is one of the highlights of the ery year. spring season and this year’s event, “CelebraThe Covington Rotary Club meets the first tion — A Treasure Odyssey” will be hosted at and third Tuesday of every month from noon the Castine Center on Sunday, March 8. For to 1 p.m. at Seiler Bar and Restaurant in Covinformation on the event, visit cmstkids.org or ington. For information, contact Elizabeth Van call (504) 615-8859.

Advocate photos by MISSIE NOEL

Barbara Reisig, Paula Meiners, honoree Leigh Anne Wall and Phoebe Whealdon at the Junior League of Greater Past President Tina Abbey, Assistant Treasurer Bernie Taylor and Covington’s Sustainer of the Year Brunch 2013 Sustainer of the Year, Joan deLaureal

Sheila Dugger, president of the Junior League of Greater Covington, with host Sonia York at the annual Sustainer Brunch

Mary Sylvestri Crosby, Becky Jo Hollen and Kellie Mayer at the Junior League Brunch

Nancy Thompson, Molly Burns and Cindy Petry

H The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, January 8, 2015 F 3G

DNA can provide insights into ancestry Genealogical research has become so advanced that now a simple cheek swab can lead you to your family’s lands of origin and to distant cousins you did not know you had.

Dr. Elaine Boston will talk about one of the available genealogical DNA testing services, Ancestry.com’s AncestryDNA, in “Finding Lost Cousins: Using Your Ancestry. com Results” at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Covington Branch, 310 W. 21st Ave. CHECK IT Each person OUT obtains half of his SHELLIE SAVOY LISTER genes from his mother and half from his father.

The same is true of his mother and father. In this way, DNA provides a unique look at where families originated and moved over time. By comparing each DNA sample to a database of DNA markers of inhabitants of a particular region, geneticists can determine where a subject’s ancestors moved around the world.

AncestryDNA also compares a subject’s DNA results to those of other people in its DNA database to connect users who are family matches.

Individuals with many identical genetic markers are likely to be related.

The Ancestry.com genealogical research database is available for free use within the library. The AncestryDNA analysis is provided by Ancestry.com at a cost of $99.

The Covington Branch, 310 W. 21st Ave., houses the library’s Genealogy Department where you can receive individualized assistance with family history research. To speak with Germaine Butler, the genealogy librarian, call (985) 893-6280 ext. 107.

Programming for Jan. 8 to Jan. 15 includes: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS AND THE INTERNET: Participants will learn the fundamentals of using computers and the Internet at 10 a.m. Friday at the Slidell Branch, 555 Robert Blvd. For information, call (985) 646-6470.

UNDER THE COVERS BOOK CLUB: The club will discuss “I Am Malala” by Malala Yousafzia at 1 p.m. Friday at the Folsom Branch, 82393 Railroad Ave. For information about the club, call branch manager Lynne Moore at (985) 796-9728.

FREE PRINCETON REVIEW PRACTICE ACT: Teens in the classes of 2015 and 2016 are invited to take a free, full-length practice ACT test at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Madisonville Branch, 1123 Main St. Scores will be returned and testing strategy discussed at 6 p.m. Wednesday.

Registration is required by calling the Princeton Review at

(800) 273-8439 or by registering online at www.princetonreview. com.

MANGA MEET UP: Teens are invited to review anime, manga and graphic novels at 6 p.m.

Monday at the Mandeville Branch, 844 Girod St., and 4:30 p.m. Thursday at the Slidell Branch, 555 Robert Blvd. For information, call the Mandeville Branch at (985) 626-4293 or the Slidell Branch at (985) 646-6470.

MANDEVILLE BOOK CLUB: The club will discuss “The Cuckoo’s Calling” by Robert Gailbraith at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Mandeville Branch, 844 Girod St. For information about the club, call branch manager Jenny Mayer at (985) 626-4293.

GAME ON: BOARD GAMES: Teens are invited to play fun board games and eat snacks at 4 p.m.

Tuesday at the Abita Springs Branch, 71683 Levenson St. For information, call (985) 8936285.

BOOKWORMS BOOK CLUB: The club will discuss “Bring Up the Bodies” by Hilary Mantel at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Causeway Branch, 3457 U.S. 190, Mandeville. For information about the club, call branch manager Sally Barringer at (985) 626-9779.

UNDERSTANDING DEPRESSION: Local counselor Jared M. Zeringue will speak about depression at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Covington Branch, 310 W. 21st Ave., and at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Slidell Branch, 555 Robert Blvd. For information, call the Covington Branch at (985) 893-6280 or the Slidell Branch at (985) 646-6470.

PAGE TURNERS BOOK CLUB: The club will discuss “The Book Thief” by Marcus Zusak at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Slidell Branch, 555 Robert Blvd. For information about the club, call branch manager Nancy Little at (985) 646-6470.

SCRABBLE GAME NIGHTS: Teens and adults are invited to test their spelling and strategy skills at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Lacombe Branch, 28027 U.S. 190, and at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Mandeville Branch, 844 Girod St. For information, call the Lacombe Branch at (985) 882-7858.

RIGHT PLANT, RIGHT PLACE: St. Tammany Master Gardeners will discuss creating and maintaining landscapes with minimal environmental damage at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at the Madisonville Library, 1123 Main St. For information, call (985) 845-4819.

CRAFTERNOON: Children are invited to make ice cube paintings at 4 p.m. Thursday at the Covington Branch, 310 W. 21st Ave. For information, call (985) 893-6280. #YUMSNACKS: Teens are invited to learn how to make strawberry-banana smoothies at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Covington Branch, 310 W. 21st Ave. For information, call (985) 893-6280.

GUMBO

REAL MEN

Continued from page 1G

Advocate file photo by VERONICA DOMINACH

Shannon Noonan and Elena Torman help to plant long leaf pine and cypress trees at the Northlake Nature Center in Mandeville in 2014. The center is again seeking volunteers to help with planting as part of Arbor Day activities.

Northlake Nature Center needs help with planting

here; and all the people I talk to when they Rue McNeill has been the executive direcare finished volunteering say they feel that tor of the Northlake Nature Center for more way.” than a decade. She has many years of What will be required of volunteers wonderful experiences spent at the during both plantings may sound a tad preserve just east of Mandeville and daunting, but it’s actually quite simple. north of U.S. 190.

Everyone who is on hand will be But of myriad memories McNeill asked to plant cypress and longleaf has of her time spent at the Northlake pine seedlings in the pine savannahs of Nature Center, what she thinks about the NNC. All volunteers are asked to perhaps most often are the times she bring their own boots and work gloves. spent there with her girls Lauren and The NNC staff will supply “dibblers,” Jennifer and her son Ryan in the 1990s. REC & LEISURE simple tools that easily help dig a hole Those times are on McNeill’s mind into which the seeds will be dropped. again as she begins preparation for the ANDREW CANULETTE Of course, the NNC will provide the NNC’s annual Arbor Day activities. seeds, as well.

That’s in part because she rememMcNeill said that in recent years, volunbers being her children’s Scout leader at the teers have helped reforest the preserve with center nearly two decades ago during Arbor thousands of seeds annually. The NNC also Day plantings. It’s also because many of the seeks volunteers to distribute seedlings at people who come to help each January hapboth the Mandeville and Covington Commupen to be from younger crowds. nity Farmers Markets in coming weeks. Mas“That is pretty much the first memory I ter gardeners will be on hand to distribute have when I think of Arbor Day here,” Mcseeds at both markets and to answer quesNeill said. “We had the whole group of girls tions regarding local tree maintenance. out there with the Scouts, and I was helpAdditional master gardeners are sought to ing with my son’s group, too. They all were help with the Arbor Day volunteer efforts, as young. It was a neat time.” well.

McNeill is hoping this year’s Arbor Day “We love it when people plan with us ahead plantings are equally memorable. She’s hopof time,” McNeill said. “It helps us know how ing that the people who volunteer annually much equipment we need, and it lets us know to plant seedlings at the 400-acre site turn when people are most needed and where they out again for plantings on Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. should be.”

She also hopes that the event draws enough So if you’re interested in lending a helping attention that she can book additional groups hand, contact McNeill as soon as possible. to plant seedlings throughout the growing Volunteering at the NNC is a great chance to seasons. earn service hours, begin work-related bondAfter all, Arbor Day happens only once a ing experiences, kindle Scouting projects and year, but trees are an everyday experience. more.

“We usually have about 100 people or so It’s also a chance to help preserve a large help during Arbor Day,” McNeill said. “It chunk of pristine habitat in southern St. Tamfluctuates, usually between 75 and 100 people. But when we have a big group that wants many Parish.

The Northlake Nature Center is at 23135 to come volunteer, sometimes they’ll ask if U.S. 190. For information on how to volunteer they can come another day. You’d be suras an individual or group, to help distribute prised. A lot of times, other days in the year seedlings at the farmers markets or to learn work better for some people. more about all the regular programming at “But we will get these requests and work with people in any way that we can,” McNeill the NNC, visit www.northlakenature.org; call (985) 626-1238; or email McNeill at rue@ said. “It’s such a good feeling when you can northlakenature.org. give back to the community by helping out

scholarships,while HOYST will use its funds to support Continued from page 1G the development of programs and facilities for homeless hance its programs for chil- youth in St. Tammany.

Various levels of sponsordren and seniors. The Northshore NAWIC chapter will ship are available, ranging utilize funds for its various from $250 to $2,500. All inprograms, including college clude numerous entries to

the cook-off, advertising with event promotion and more.

Cost for the public is $10 for a bottomless bowl of gumbo, and young children eat for free.

Ample parking will be available on-site. SLT is at 2024 Nellie Drive next to the new

Fremaux Town Center off Interstate 10 in Slidell.

Tickets to the cook-off, which will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., will be sold at the gate.

Slidell Little Theatre is a 501(c)(3), tax-deductible organization.

Applications for teams wanting to join the gumbo cook-off are available online at www. slidelllittletheatre.org. For information, including sponsorship opportunities, call (985) 960-1177 or (985) 285-0737 or email northshoregumbo@ gmail.com.

IN PROFILE

completed additional therapy certifications in both prenatal and infant massage/movement therapy. Pearson recommends regular massages, be it weekly, monthly or even quarterly.

“Massage is life-changing and helps people cope with life’s challenges,” Pearson said. She has helped clients battling cancer, going through divorce, dealing with injuries.

“Massage helps one to take care of themself during difficult times.”

So what is Pearson’s new year’s resolution to a healthier lifestyle?

“Well, personally, I like a rainbow plate and try to include a variety of colors in each meal,” she said. “I also like the 10,000 steps a day goal. One of my new year’s resolutions is to drink a gallon of water a day — water is super important to all body functions.”

In addition to her business, Pearson holds many teaching and board positions in her industry. She is the government relations chairwoman for the Louisiana chapter of the American Massage Therapy Association and serves on its board as the chapter’s treasurer.

“But what I enjoy the most is the magic of helping people improve their lives,” she says while standing outside her business. “I make people’s days better; that feels amazing.”

For information, visit www. covingtonmassagewellness. com; call (504) 400-7934; or email melissaKpearson@gmail. com.

Continued from page 1G emotional tension.”

Pearson grew up in greater New Orleans but spent plenty of time in Philadelphia with her father. She also spent summers with her maternal grandmother on a farm in Western Kentucky.

She chuckles thinking back on those summers.

“If you looked bored, my grandmother would put you to work in the garden picking beans or pulling weeds,” Pearson said, adding that same farm has been in her family for more than 100 years. “I would take a book and head into the woods, and now I’m an avid reader.”

She moved to St. Tammany in June 2010, taking her two children out of private school and moving them into St. Tammany’s public schools.

“I felt this would be a better place to raise a family,” she said. “I eventually bought a house and opened a business.”

When asked what prompted

her interest in massage therapy, she gazes across the room and smiles. “Well, my mother did give me a book on foot reflexology when I was growing up because she loved foot rubs and she knew I loved to read.”

But Pearson admits her career actually grew from a problem pregnancy with her second child, her son.

“I was not one of those glowing pregnant women; I was nauseous all the time and bloated and achy and generally in a bad mood,” she said. “I was given a gift certificate for a prenatal massage, and when it was over, I was a new woman.”

It was such a dramatic change and influenced the rest of her pregnancy.

“I got off the table feeling light and happy and peaceful,” Pearson said. That experience led her to studying massage therapy at Blue Cliff College.

“I went back to UNO to complete my bachelor’s degree, but massage therapy has always been my passion.”

Since graduating from Blue Cliff College and UNO, she has

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

for the evening, according to organizers, is “rock ’n’ roll fun with a superhero motif.”

This year, there are eight Real Men who have pledged to advocate for Safe Harbor: John Brindell is a consultant with Eustis Benefits. He is a native of Slidell and referees Little League, junior high, high school, college and semi-pro games. He is a graduate of Leadership Northshore and mentor to project groups.

John Case is an owner of Lowry, Dunham, Vivian and Case insurance agency. He is a past president of the East Chamber of Commerce, a graduate of Leadership Northshore and active in Rotary.

Bill Davis is CEO of Slidell Memorial Hospital and serves on the boards of the St. Tammany Economic Development District, the East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce and STARC, a nonprofit organization serving people with developmental disabilities.

Charles Kepfler is the owner of CiCi’s Pizza and is a graduate of Leadership Northshore and serves on its board. He has served as a vice president for the Slidell Youth Basketball Association and is a 2014 director for National Biddy Basketball.

Dan Milham is a retired meteorologist working as a freelance photographer. He is active in many civic causes through his membership in the Rotary Club and as public relations coordinator of the New Orleans Medical Mission Services.

Mike Noto is director of public relations for the city of Slidell.

He is active in civic affairs, donating time and effort as well as fundraising for Boy Scouts of America and Keep Slidell Beautiful. He is the co-chairman of Christmas Under the Stars for Slidell and is a volunteer for Ashley’s Angels.

Brad Rummel is an officer with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Department. He is a lieutenant in the reserve division and is employed by FedEx as an internal security specialist.

He is involved with the chamber and the St. Tammany Republican Committee and is in the class of Leadership Northshore.

Dr. Jack “Jay” Saux is an oncologist who is raising three college-aged daughters to become successful and independent. He hopes they will grow up knowing their worth because he believes that learning the skills to be successful and independent will be essential in finding a partner who will treat them right. He remarks that among his many interests, being a dad is his favorite thing.

Safe Harbor is a nonprofit, nongovernmental agency in St. Tammany Parish serving women and children who are victims of domestic abuse. Safe Harbor can provide a safe place to stay and a variety of critical support services ranging from crisis intervention, legal advocacy, playgroups, emotional support and community-based referrals for children.

Last year, there were more than 3,000 calls for help to Safe Harbor from individuals involved in domestic violence or abuse in St. Tammany Parish. The professional staff and trained volunteers help bridge the gap between victimization and independence. That includes everything from accessing the right social services to finding a job and a new place to live.

Safe Harbor is available 24 hours a day and is completely confidential. All services are free, with no income eligibility requirement.

Ti c k e t s a n d s p o n s o rships can be purchased at safeharbornorthshore.org.

Votes can be cast as often as desired.

For information about the event, contact gala co-chairwomen Lonnie Favre, (985) 778-0264; Peggy Vallejo, (985) 778-1109; or Joan Archer (985) 201-1157.

To reach the 24-hour crisis line, call (985) 626-5740 or in Slidell, (985) 641-2612.

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4G F Thursday, January 8, 2015 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

community

Krewe of Bilge queen to be chosen at coronation ball Advocate staff report

Queen Neptune XXXI of the Krewe of Bilge will be chosen by chance when the krewe holds its coronation ball Jan. 17 at the Northshore Harbor Center. Each of the krewe’s seven Trainor Artigue maids will choose a bouquet The seven maids are Brooke with an envelope attached, and one of those envelopes will Artigue, Caitlin Bush, Rachel Collignon, Hannah Dowdell, designate the queen.

Bush

Collignon

Dowdell

Landry

Leah Landry, Sadie Lewis and rade will depart at noon Saturday, Jan. 31, from Phil’s Marina Raven Mayfield.

The Krewe of Bilge boat pa- Wharf, 1194 Harbor Drive,

Lewis

Mayfield

Slidell.

About 30 boats are expected to participate in the parade,

which has the theme “Fairy Tales and Myths.”

The leader of the parade will be Earl J. Savoie, captain of the Krewe of Bilge. King Neptune XXXV is Jay Trainor.

The Krewe of Bilge was organized in Eden Isles in 1978.

The first King Neptune was chosen in 1981, and the first Queen Neptune was chosen in 1986.

Volunteers needed at refuge Advocate staff report

Photos provided by JULIE WOOD

Krewe of Selene officers, from left, Nancy Barthelemy, Tara Hunter-Ingram, Terri Barrios, Gail Ledet, Maria Natal, Marliene Salvaggio

Selene coronation is how they roll Advocate staff report The Krewe of Selene hosted its 17th annual Coronation Ball on Dec. 6.

This year’s Queen Selene XVII Amanda Molaison and King Paul Saunders were crowned and toasted for Carnival season.

The krewe’s night parade will take place in Slidell on Friday, Feb. 13 with the theme “This Is How We Roll.”

The Krewe of Selene officers are Nancy Barthelemy, Tara Hunter-Ingram, Terri Barrios, Gail Ledet, Maria Natal and Marliene Salvaggio.

Dukes are Doug Drennan, Steve Authement, Karl Fox and Brian Larsen.

Other volunteer opportunities in support of the Southeast Louisiana Refuges are available throughout the year, including staffing the Visitor Center, assisting with special events, educational programs and canoe tours on the refuges.

The Friends of Louisiana Wildlife Refuges is a nonprofit organization formed in 1996 to support conservation and education projects on all the refuges of the Southeast Louisiana Complex. It has secured many grants for refuge projects and spearheaded the opening of the Visitor Center at the Lacombe headquarters site. The Friends also sponsors the annual youth fishing event at Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge and the popular Wild Things festival each October in Lacombe.

More information about the Friends can be found at flwr. org.

St. Tammany Humane Society event sets adoption record Advocate staff report

Queen Selene XVII Amanda Molaison and King Paul Saunders Doug Drennan, Steve Authement, Karl Fox, Brian Larsen

NEIGHBORHOOD BRIEFS BOUTIQUE BENEFIT: Rainbow Child Care Center will be the beneficiary of a sale of women’s clothing, shoes, purses and accessories from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8; from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9; and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, at My Girlfriend’s Closet, 881 Robert Blvd., Slidell.

For information, call Dionne Graham at (985) 646-1603.

CAR SEAT SAFETY CHECK: Certified technicians from New Orleans Emergency Medical Services will install child safety seats and check seats for proper installation from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Banner Ford, 1943 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville. The event is free and appointments are not necessary.

The Louisiana Passenger Safety Task Force estimates that 96 percent of child safety seats are used incorrectly.

BOOK SALE: Cookbooks and cooking magazines will be featured during the Second Saturday Special Sale held by the Friends of the Slidell Library from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday inside the Slidell Branch Library, 555 Robert Blvd.

Prices are $3 for hardbacks,

Both group and individual volunteers are needed beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday for participation in the first Work/ Play Day of the year, organized by the Friends of Louisiana Wildlife Refuges.

The volunteer service day will be held at the refuge headquarters in Lacombe at 61389 La. 434.

This marks the eighth year these volunteer service days have brought individuals and groups together for a fun and rewarding experience in a beautiful setting. The historic 110-acre property in Lacombe that now serves as the headquarters for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is largely maintained through organized volunteer service days.

The day is divided into two parts: work and play. The work portion activities mostly in-

clude clearing trails and general garden maintenance, and will end at noon. Afterward, a light lunch is provided by the Friends of Louisiana Wildlife Refuges.

The play starts after lunch and consists of a facilitated canoe outing on Bayou Lacombe.

All equipment is provided and new volunteers are always needed.

The focus for the Work/Play Day will be to get the trails and grounds ready for the upcoming Camellia Garden Open House to be held Feb. 21.

In order to accommodate lunch planning, RSVP by Jan. 8 to David Stoughton at (985) 882-2025 or email david_ stoughton@fws.gov.

A student-produced film highlights some of the history and activities that are a part of these of volunteer service days.

It can be viewed at youtube. com/watch?v=b9wDXAkPbrs.

$2 for soft-cover books and $1 for four magazines. Cash and checks are accepted, and memberships in the Friends of the Slidell Library will be available.

HOME RULE CHARTER COMMITTEE: The St. Tammany Parish Home Rule Charter Committee will be meeting twice a month through March. Meetings take place at 6 p.m. in the Parish Council chambers at 21490 Koop Drive, Mandeville.

Residents are encouraged to attend and offer their input. To submit suggestions electronically, visit stpgov.org/speakup.

To review the Home Rule Charter online or access a printable version, visit stpgov.org/homerule-charter.

Upcoming meetings are Jan. 21 and Feb. 9.

GIRLS HEALTH DAY: Girls’ health issues including self-esteem, healthy eating, fitness and ways to prevent bullying will be discussed during a Girls Health Day from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Jan. 24 in the Pelican Room and front lobby of Lakeview Regional Medical Center, 95 Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington.

Girls Health Day, with the theme “Be Healthy, Be Hap-

py, Be You,” is sponsored by Lakeview Regional Medical Center in collaboration with the Junior League of Greater Covington. Local physicians will provide free health screenings such as vision screening, hearing tests, body mass index measurements and blood pressure assessments. A limited number of participants will have an opportunity to use a da Vinci robot to perform simulated surgical activity. For information or to register, call (985) 867-3900.

LAW AND ORDER NIGHT: The Slidell Elks Lodge will honor a deputy, police officer, firefighter and state trooper of the year during its Law and Order Night dinner at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 21. The Elks Lodge is at 34212 Elks Road, Slidell.

The event will feature a panel discussion with an opportunity to pose questions to representatives from different agencies.

The meal is free, but reservations are required. To make a reservation, call Pat Massarini at (601) 796-8159 before Feb. 14.

Send news for Neighborhood Briefs to sttammany @theadvocate.com.

St. Tammany Humane Society’s recent Home for the Holidays pet adoption event set a single-day adoption record for the organization. Hosted by Baldwin Subaru in Covington, 16 dogs and 15 cats were adopted — the highest number in the organization’s 62-year history.

Two other animal organizations, St. Tammany Department of Animal Services and the Magnolia Chapter of the Humane Society of Louisiana, also participated and had 22 of their animals find adoptive families.

Making the successful, feewaived adoption day possible was a grant provided by Subaru’s “Share the Love” program, and the ASPCA. There was live music by Christian Serpas and Ghost Town, and a cheerful Santa Paws sat with pets for photos. The Lake Harbor Youth And Pets, or YAP, Club also hosted a hot chocolate and baked goods sale to benefit the STHS. A highlight of the event was a silent auction featuring 12 original “mutt” and “meow” masterpieces created by St. Tammany’s own artistic dogs and cats, the proceeds of which will benefit the artists’ friends at the society’s no-kill shelter.

“It’s heartening to see how much can be accomplished when members of the community come together to save lives,” stated STHS Interim Director, Dr. Michelle New-

Photos provided by St. Tammany Humane Society

Dogs await adoption at the ‘Home for the Holidays’ event. field.

Volunteers hope to top those numbers with a mega-adoption event in conjunction with Woofstock 2015, the STHS 26th Annual Spring Festival and Low Cost Canine Vaccine Clinic on Sunday, March 1, with a goal of 100 or more adoptions.

Rescue organizations and business sponsors who would like to participate can call Janie Valle at (985) 892-7387.

Upcoming STHS fundraisers include the Fine Wines for Canines 2015, a five-course meal with wine pairings from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Jan. 16 at Annadele’s Plantation, 71518 Chestnut St., Covington. The cost is $85. For reservations, call (985) 8907669.

Founded in 1953, the St. Tammany Humane Society is one of the largest nonprofit, non-

Santa was on hand to help local pets get their Christmas wish for a new home. governmental animal welfare organizations in Louisiana. It provides veterinary care, fostering and adoption services.

For information, or to volunteer, visit www.sthumane.org.

Tammany Together reactivates, presents ‘An Evening with Allies’ Advocate staff report “An Evening with Allies” will be held from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 9, at the Pontchartrain Yacht Club, 140 Jackson Ave., Mandeville. Presented by the newly reactivated nonprofit organization Tammany Together, the event will feature live music by rock fiddler Waylon Thibodeaux.

Guest speakers will be Adam and Amber Briggle, of Denton, Texas, who were involved in recent efforts that led to a ban on fracking in their county.

Party organizers promise “all fun, no frack,” with proceeds benefiting the group’s nonpartisan St. Tammany

Community Fracking Education Campaign.

Tickets are a $15 donation and include music, food and a cash bar.

Cofounded in 2007 by Rick Wilke and Sandra Slifer, the organization’s mission is to identify issues of importance to the citizens of St. Tammany Parish, to educate its members and others on these issues, and to exert a positive influence on their outcome by speaking out with a unified voice.

Tammany Together was formed because “we saw a need to bring people together from all parts of the parish,” Wilke said.

“The fracking debate is cer-

tainly an issue that has energized St. Tammany residents,” Slifer said.

Joining the Tammany Together board are interim board members Cindy Brooking, Cassandra Krebs and Johnmichael Myhal. Elections will be held in April at the next Tammany Together general meeting.

“The Great St. Tammany Parish Fracking Rebellion” is a 17-minute short film produced by videographer Mike Stagg that chronicles the history of the community response to the proposal to begin fracking in St. Tammany. It is available to view on the group’s website.

For more information, visit www.tammanytogether.org.

The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, January 8, 2015 F 5G

community Exhibit asks viewers to reflect on desires

Knights of Columbus honor veterans

Advocate staff report

Photo provided by KOC 2732

The Knights of Columbus Council No. 2732 recently attended the celebration of the Mass in honor of “fallen heroes,� their fellow knights who were also veterans. These veterans served their country, then helped guide the group to achieve the council goals. Knights attending the Mass are, front from left, Joe Rotolo, Master Ronald Fogarty, Faithful Navigator Terry O’Malley, Marshal PFD Mickey Liner, Howard Cruck, C.J. Miller; and back, Max Keller, Jessie Keen, David Morell, Burnell Lawrence, Robert Miller and Tony Pascnall.

NAMI St.Tammany provides resources, support for people with mental illness Advocate staff report People with mental illness, and their friends and family, can find resources and support through NAMI St. Tammany, 23515 U.S. 190, Mandeville.

The organization’s executive director is Nick Richard; its phone number is (985) 6266538 and its website is www. namisttammany.org.

NAMI Connection is a free support group for adults living with mental illness. No registration is required. Groups are confidential; participants may share as much or as little information as they wish. The Covington group meets weekly, and the Slidell and Hammond groups meet twice a month.

The NAMI Connection group in Covington meets from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. every Thursday in the Madisonville Room at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1202 S. Tyler St., Covington.

The NAMI Connection group in Hammond meets from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of every month in the E. Brent Dufreche Conference Center on the main campus of North Oaks Medical Center, 15790 Paul Vega MD Drive, Hammond.

The NAMI Connection group in Slidell meets from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month in the Camellia Room at Ochsner Medical Center–Northshore, 100 Medical Center Drive, Slidell.

NAMI St. Tammany also offers support groups for friends and relatives of people with mental illness. Group meetings are led by trained facilitators and provide opportunities to share, discuss and resolve issues as they come up.

The NAMI family support group in Hammond typi-

cally meets from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month in the E. Brent Dufreche Conference Center on the main campus of North Oaks Medical Center, 15790 Paul Vega MD Drive, Hammond.

The NAMI family support group in Covington meets from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month in the Pelican Room at Lakeview Regional Medical Center, 95 Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington.

To confirm meeting times, call NAMI St. Tammany at (985) 626-6538.

NAMI also supplies clothes and household items for people in need, especially those with behavioral health issues. To set up a time to visit NAMI’s Closet, make a donation or volunteer, call NAMI St. Tammany project coordinator Tracy Moseley at (985) 626-6538.

HEALTH BRIEFS SLIDELL MEMORIAL HOSPITAL LEADERSHIP: The board of trustees of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Foundation will hold five meetings in 2015, with the first at 8 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, in Room 302 of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Regional Cancer Center, 1120 Robert Blvd., Slidell. This board will also meet March 5, June 4, Sept. 3 and Dec. 3.

The hospital’s Board of Commissioners will meet at 6 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 26, in Room 302 of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Regional Cancer Center, 1120 Robert Blvd., Slidell. This board meets monthly, with the next meeting set for Feb. 23.

The hospital’s Advisory Board meets quarterly. The next meeting will be at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, March 17, in Room 302 of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Regional Cancer Center, 1120 Robert Blvd., Slidell.

This board will also meet June 16, Sept. 15 and Dec. 8.

The meetings of these hospital leadership boards are open to the public. For information, the hospital’s main phone number is (985) 280-2200.

BABY & ME: Parents of babies who are not yet walking will share issues and insights about parenting at 10 a.m. Thursdays, Jan. 8, 15, 22 and 29, on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center, Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell. Registration is not required. For information, call (985) 280-8529.

BABY LOVE: This is a three-part class for expectant couples.

Class One, especially for early pregnancy, will meet from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8.

Class Two, dealing with labor, 6 p.m. Jan. 15. Class Three, dealing with pain control and anesthesia, and early infant care, 6 p.m. Jan. 22. Baby Love classes will meet on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center, Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell. The cost is $20 per couple for the individual classes, if not preregistered at SMH. To register, call (985) 280-2657 or visit slidellmemorial.org.

BREASTFEEDING CLINIC: Lactation consultants will offer support and encouragement at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, 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.

FREE YOGA IN SLIDELL: A yoga class is offered for cancer patients and caregivers from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Mondays, Jan. 12, 19 and 26, on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center, SMH Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell. There is no charge for the classes, but registration and medical release are required. For information, call (985) 280-6600.

SLIDELL AUTISM SUPPORT GROUP: Strengthening Outcomes with Autism Resources will meet at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12, on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center, Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell.

For more information, call Anne Galiano at (985) 718-0432.

LOOK GOOD ... FEEL BETTER IN SLIDELL: Women with cancer can get free make-up kits, stepby-step demonstrations, a free lunch and great support from this program, which will meet from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12, at the Slidell Memorial Hospital Imaging Center, 1495 Gause Blvd., Slidell. To register, call (985) 280-2657.

BREASTFEEDING INSTRUCTION: The benefits of breastfeeding and common concerns will be discussed during a free class to be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Mondays, Jan. 12 and 19, at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. Free. For information, call (985) 898-4083.

ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP: Caregivers will receive emotional, educational and social support, and develop methods and skills for solving problems, through the Alzheimer’s caregiver support group. The group meets

at 2 p.m. on the second Tuesday of every month in the second-floor conference room of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Regional Cancer Center, 1120 Robert Blvd., Slidell. The next meeting will be Jan. 13. For information, call Audrey Baker at (985) 960-1964.

PLAY AND LEARN: Parents and their children, 16 months to 4 years, will play and learn together through music and movement, arts and crafts, and story time at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. The class will meet from 9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 13, 20 and 27. Class size is limited to 12 parent/child couples. The cost is $15 per child for members, $24 for nonmembers. For information, contact ksupan@ stph.org or (985) 898-4435.

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, Jan. 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 jfreudenberger@marybird. com or (985) 276-6832.

POSITIVE DISCIPLINE: Paula Jarrell will introduce positive discipline strategies to enhance parental toolboxes from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14, at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. The cost is $5 for members and $10 for others. For information, contact ksupan@stph.org or (985) 898-4435.

ZUMBA CLASSES FOR CANCER PATIENTS: Free low-impact, Latin-inspired dance-fitness classes will meet at 5 p.m.

Wednesdays, Jan. 14, 21 and 28, on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center, Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell.

An opening reception will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturday for a display of paintings by photorealist Lory Lockwood in the Atrium Gallery at Christwood, 100 Christwood Blvd., Covington.

The exhibit, “Images of Desire,� is about passions, dreams and reflection. “We dream, we covet, we desire,� Lockwood said. “These aspirations, realized or not, can give us pleasure, fantasy, and a sense of identity or Photo provided by Christwood style. They fuel a drive for personal fulfillment This painting by Lory Lockwood is part of the and distinction. They can be fun and exhilarating ‘Images of Desire’ exhibit opening Jan. 10 in and just simply make us feel good.� the Atrium Gallery at Christwood in CovingThe exhibit may be viewed from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays through Feb. 27. ton.

TAMMANY TO DO COVINGTON

LOUISIANA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA: 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 9, First Baptist Church, 16333 Highway 1085, Covington. Grammy Award-winning banjo artist BĂŠla Fleck will join the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, led by music director Carlos Miguel Prieto for a vibrant concert of American-themed favorites from the past and present. Leonard Bernstein’s exuberant Three Dance Episodes from “On the Townâ€? kicks off the program, followed by Fleck’s virtuosic performance of his own genredefying “Impostor Concerto for Banjo and Orchestra.â€? The evening concludes with Antonin DvorĂĄk’s “New World Symphony,â€? famous for its melodies inspired by Native American and African-American song. BĂŠla Fleck is a world renowned banjo player who has reinvented the image and the sound of the banjo throughout his unique performing and recording career in bluegrass, jazz, pop, rock and world beat genres. He has won 15 Grammys and been nominated for 30. He has been nominated in more different musical categories than anyone in Grammy history. In 2011, BĂŠla wrote his first stand alone banjo concerto, on commission with the Nashville Symphony. This work, titled “The Impostor,â€? along with his new quintet for banjo and string quartet was released in 2013 on the Deutche Gramaphone label. His band, BĂŠla Fleck and the Flecktones still perform together, 25 years after the band’s inception. Tickets range in price from $20 to $55 and are available at www.lpomusic.com.

PLAYMAKERS THEATER: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 19106 Playmakers Road, Covington. “Star Wars,� a staged reading, is presented by Playmakers Theater, directed by Jacob Zeringue and Kay Files.

Tickets are a $5 donation at the door. Call (985) 893-1671 or visit www.Playmakersinc.com.

COVINGTON FARMERS MARKET: 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays, Covington City Hall, 609 N. Columbia St.; and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays, Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St. Head out to the farmers market for fresh seasonal produce, dressings, plants and more. Saturday’s market features a Korean barbecue cooking demo by Dong and live music by Jerry Hess beginning at 9:30 a.m. ‘LOOT’ AUDITIONS: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday and Wednesday, Jan. 12 and 14, at Playmakers Theater, 19106 Playmakers Road, Covington. A dark comedy, “Loot� will run March 6-22, except for March 8.

Roles to be cast are a middle-aged man; a middleaged woman; an unethical young man who is an only child; the young man’s friend, who is a ladies’ man; and a police inspector. Come prepared to read script as directed. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and are available by calling (985) 893-1671 or visiting www.playmakersinc.com.

YMCA BASKETBALL: Jan. 24 through March 7 at the West St. Tammany YMCA, 71256 Francis Road, Covington. Registration is open until Jan. 31 for this basketball program for boys and girls ages 3-7. For information, call the YMCA at (985) 893-9622.

MANDEVILLE

‘SHE KILLS MONSTERS’: 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 11, 30

by Ninety Theatre, 880 Lafayette St. 30 by Ninety Theatre will hold auditions for Qui Nguyen’s “She Kills Monsters.� Directed by Tom Bubrig, “She Kills Monsters� is a comedic romp into the world of fantasy role-playing games. There are roles for three women and two men who appear to be in their 20s, and for three women and two men who appear to be of high school age. There also will be a female

Photo provided by the LPO

BĂŠla Fleck narrator who can be of any age. Performances will be from Feb. 26 through March 15. For an audition package, email 30byninety@gmail.com or call (844) 843-3090.

SLIDELL

‘DOUBT, A PARABLE’: 7 p.m. Jan. 18, Slidell Little Theatre, 2024 Nellie Drive. The Slidell Little Theatre will hold auditions for the Pulitzer and Tony award-winning drama “Doubt, A Parable,� by John Patrick Shanley, directed by Gary Mendoza. There are roles for three women and one man. Bring a headshot. Call backs are Jan. 19. Show dates are Feb. 27 through March 15. For information, visit www.SlidellLittleTheatre.org.

WEEKLY EVENTS

‘NEW BLUES JAM:’ 7 p.m. Thursdays, The Maple Room, 2219 Carey St. Redline’s Shades of Blues performs their rockin’ blues and New Orleans funk music at this weekly jam night.

CAMELLIA CITY FARMERS MARKET: 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays, Griffith Park, 333 Erlanger St., Slidell.

Fresh produce, seafood, prepared foods and arts and crafts.

MANDEVILLE TRAILHEAD COMMUNITY MARKET: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St. Local food, fresh produce, live music, shopping and more.

ABITA SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET: noon to 4 p.m.

Sundays, Abita Springs Trailhead. Fresh produce, local food, crafts.

Send news for Tammany To Do listings to sttammany@theadvocate.com.

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community Elks bring Santa to seniors

Photo provided by NASA

From left are Al Watkins, of A2Research, Kelly Boyd and Jerry Cook, deputy director of NASA’s Stennis Space Center.

Slidell scientist recognized for human space flight work Advocate staff report Kelly Boyd, of Slidell, has been recognized for her work in support of human space flight by the NASA Space Flight Awareness Program. Boyd is an environmental geographic information system scientist with A2Research at NASA’s Stennis Space Center.

The award was presented Dec. 16 by Stennis Deputy Director Jerry Cook. Boyd was recognized for her comprehensive and detailed geographic information systems mapping capabilities and her laboratory services contributions in support of the rocket propulsion test programs at Stennis.

Mandeville man makes strides in entertainment industry

Photo by ZACK SMITH

The Zion Harmonizers will perform Jan. 18 at Christ Episcopal Church in Covington.

Christ Episcopal Church to host Zion Harmonizers performance Advocate staff report The Zion Harmonizers, the oldest active gospel quartet in New Orleans, will perform at 5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 18, at Christ Episcopal Church in Covington as part of the church’s Third Sunday Concert Series. The church is at 120 S. New Hampshire Street, at the entrance to Bogue Fa-

laya Park.

The group was formed in the Zion City community in 1939. In honor of its 75th anniversary, the group released a new CD, “Bringing in the Sheaves,” in spring 2014.

Members of the group are Brazella Briscoe Sr., lead vocals; William Briscoe Sr., bass guitar; Prof. J.B. Warrick, keyboards/organ; Willie Williams,

guitar/vocal bass; Franklin Smith, baritone vocal; Marion Chambers Jr., first tenor vocal; Benjamin Francois III, second tenor vocal; and Charles Harris, drums.

All concerts in the Third Sunday Concert Series are free and open to the public, and are followed by a reception where the audience may meet the performers.

Photo provided by Slidell Elks

Santa and Mrs. Claus (Elk Pat Massarini and Auxiliary member Carol Massarini) visited Azalea Estates in Slidell. Shown are Santa and Mrs. Claus with 100-year-old Mel Henderlick and her dog, Tippy. There were 35 residents who visited with them to let them know what they wanted for Christmas. Each resident at Azalea Estates was given candy canes and calendars.

Advocate staff report Peter Boraks, of Mandeville, a December business administration graduate of Southeastern Louisiana University, has built a 2013 internship at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, into a wide range of opportunities in the entertainment industry.

After participating in the Disney College Program, Boraks obtained a seasonal role that allows him to travel to Disney World multiple times each year to maintain his employment status.

When he returned to Southeastern that fall, Boraks successfully Boraks auditioned to become a member of the “Swoop Troop” game-night entertainment squad for the New Orleans Pelicans, an opportunity he learned about during an SLU job fair.

Since then he has been hired to fill the role of Mojo, the mascot for the New Orleans VooDoo arena football team. He also has joined the New Orleans Zephyrs as the baseball team’s nutria mascot, Boudreaux.

He plans to pursue a career that allows him to continue using his entertainment skills to bring joy to other people.

Kevin Davis visits Kiwanis

From left, Magnolia Forest Garden Club President Sandy Solar and Karen Senter, co-hostesses with hostess Judy Leonard and Marion Finnin, co-hostess.

Photo provided by Magnolia Forest Garden Club

Judy Leonard gave a tour of her large flower and herb garden after a meeting of the Magnolia Forest Garden Club. Shown are members, from left, Joann Round, Judy Leonard, Kweli Amusa, Beryl Deris, Marion Finnin, Karen Senter, Margo Necaise, Jill Courseault, Betty Rose and Sandra Dixon.

Magnolia Forest Garden Club tours garden Garden of the month winner was Harvey and Patsy Ford. The home The Magnolia Forest Garden was selected for its overall well Club held its November meeting maintained appearance. Across the at the home of Judy Leonard, host- front were pink azaleas and large ess, with the help of Karen Senter, sasanquas on each end of the home.

Marion Finnin, and Sandy Solar, The garden included roses, ligustrum, and other large azaleas and co-hostesses.

Advocate staff report

camellias. The judges were Pam Anderson and Florence Onstad.

The club held several workshops, such as making large bows for the mailboxes as a fundraiser, and making paper magnolias for the club’s Christmas tree in Griffin Park for Slidell’s “Christmas

Under the Stars” Parade of Trees.

Following the meeting, Judy Leonard gave a tour of her garden and presented the program titled “People Friendly Succulent Dish Garden.” Members participated by making their own container of succulent dish gardens.

Knights of Columbus support Ladies for Liberty

Photo provided by Kiwanis Club

The Kiwanis Club of Northshore-Mandeville recently heard from guest speaker and former parish president Kevin Davis, originally of Slidell. Davis was appointed by Gov. Bobby Jindal in December 2011 as the director of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness. He is responsible for all aspects of state preparedness, response and recovery. Shown are, from left, Kevin Davis and Guy Guinot, president of Kiwanis of Northshore-Mandeville. Additional information about Davis and the Homeland Security office is available at gohsep.la.gov.

Slidell Little Theater ‘Nutcracker’ performances have full houses

Kaley Pichon is seen in the role of Clara in the Ballet Esprit presentation of ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Slidell Little Theatre.

Ballet Esprit is the performing company of the Southern Youth Ballet, directed by Mary Thomas.

The dancers range in age from 6 to 18. The two soldout performances marked the first time that the troupe performed the holiPhoto by MEGHAN M. day classic at Slidell THOMAS Little Theatre.

Photo provided by the Knights of Columbus

Photos provided by the Eden Isles Garden Club

The October 2014 Yard of the Month Award was won by Ronnie and Marda Bernard, above, of 206 Eydie Lane, where they also won Yard of the Month about 18 years ago. The Eden Isles Garden Club Yard of the Month Awards was also recently presented to Danny and Sherri Delaup, below, of 436 Charles Court.

Members of the Slidell Ladies for Liberty were presented a donation of $750 from the Archbishop Phillip Hannan Assembly of the Knights of Columbus at its recent meeting in Covington. Ladies for Liberty is a group based in Slidell, dedicated to adopting local soldiers being deployed to the Middle East. The money will defray some of the expense in mailing packages to the troops. Shown are, from left, Annette Hall and Marion Dean McCoy and Sir Knight Tex Stevenson.

Eden Isles Garden Club names yards of the month Advocate staff report The Eden Isles Garden Club recently met at the home of Bonnie Viosca. The meeting was called to order by President Naomie Hess.

Special guest speaker was Penny Crawford, Master Flower Show judge, of Mandeville. She demonstrated the intricacies of flower arranging, especially in preparing entries for the “Art in Bloom” show held each spring at the New Orleans Museum of Art. Following the meeting, a luncheon of jambalaya, a mixed green salad and apple trifle was served by hostess Bonnie Viosca and co-hostesses Kathrine and Coleen Lindsey.

The club also presented its Yard of the Month Awards to Danny and Sherri Delaup, of 436 Charles years ago.

Court, and to Ronnie and Marda Both the Delaups and the BerBernard, 206 Eydie Lane, who also nards were presented a gift card won Yard of the Month about 18 from The Garden in Slidell.

Photo provided by Slidell Republican Women’s Club

Celebrity elves who facilitated the annual Christmas auction for the Slidell Republican Women’s Club are, from left, Gene Bellisario, Eugene St. Jean, Scott Gardner and Freddy Drennan.

Celebrity elves raise funds for college scholarships Advocate staff report Four elves were the featured guests at the Slidell Republican Women’s Club Christmas luncheon, but they had to work for their fare.

St. Tammany Parish Councilman Gene Bellisario, District 9; SRWC Associated member Eugene St. Jean; St. Tammany District Judge Scott Gardner; and Slidell Mayor

Freddy Drennan were the celebrity elves that facilitated the SRWC’s annual Christmas auction.

All the auction funds raised that day help fund the SRWC end-ofyear scholarships for qualifying senior girls from high schools in eastern St. Tammany Parish.

Also at the luncheon, new SRWC officers were installed for the coming year.

The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, January 8, 2015 F 7G

schools Covington High students raise wall on Habitat home

Mandeville PTA donates benches for junior high school campus

Photo provided by Fontainebleau Junior High School Photo provided by Covington High

Covington High School Fellowship of Christian Athletes raise a wall at a West St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity home build. Shown are, from left, Courtni Riviere, Victoria Villere, Victoria Foret, Taylor Singletary, Brylee Laird, Rachel Granger, Amanda Schenck, Madison Boudreaux, Isaiah Carter, Alexis Smith and Amanda Vicari.

Lyon first-graders see ‘Holiday Extravaganza’

Lyon Elementary School firstgraders attended the Covington High School musical production of ‘Holiday Extravaganza.’

Afterward, the students and teachers enjoyed a picnic lunch at Bogue Falaya Park. From left are Austin Perrin, Jodi O’Berry, Elsie McNeil and Ethan Buffinet.

Students at Fontainebleau Junior High School in Mandeville now have benches where they can sit and socialize before school and during lunch. The PTA purchased the benches, and Bobby King’s ag science students assembled and installed them. In the front row, from left, are Alexa Theriot, Miranda Gendusa, Karley Fasullo, Aleaxis Ebel and Charlotte Peachey.

Behind them are Terrance Fabre, Simon Garetto, Seth Nelson, Brady Romaire, Sean Selleck, Rodger Cox, Tyler Davis, Scott Kastner, Cameron Johnson, Noah Aicard, Chance Kenney, Harrison Juneau, Lance Richardson, Brodi Sardi, Seth Marrero and Heath Bailey.

Lacombe PTA chooses 2014-15 educator of distinction

Photo provided by Lyon Elementary

Mandeville teachers color in the story

Photo provided by Chahta-Ima Elementary School

The PTA at Chahta-Ima Elementary School in Lacombe has chosen technology resource teacher Candice Gianelloni, center, as its 2014-15 educator of distinction. Gianelloni is seen with instructional aides Roxanne Hecker, left, and Michelle Cusimano.

Photo provided by Mandeville Elementary

Mandeville Elementary teachers and paraprofessionals dressed for the annual Storybook Character Day as the crayons from Drew Daywalt’s book, ‘The Day the Crayons Quit.’ Pictured are Sharon Turner, Ellen Cascio, Toni Bourg, Laurie Wetekamm, Tori Jones, Mollie Dunbar and Kay Krogsgard.

Lacombe fifth-grader student of year

Covington student lands baseball scholarship

SCHOOL BRIEFS LAKE CASTLE’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY: Lake Castle Private School celebrates 20 years in Madisonville. The Madisonville campus was opened in 1994 by Barry M. Butera with a promise of an education “second to none”delivered by a faculty and staff committed to “Excellence in Education” each and every day.

Twentieth anniversary shirts, designed by the administration, are worn each Monday of this school term to commemorate the celebration.

CHRIST EPISCOPAL 5K: Christ Episcopal School’s Athletic Booster Club will host its first King Cake 5K on Jan. 31.

The race will begin and end at Christ Episcopal’s Early Childhood Campus, 120 S. New Hampshire St., Covington.

Race-day registration will begin at 7 a.m., with a 1-mile fun run beginning at 8 a.m. The 5K will take place at 8:30 a.m.

For information, email Greg Carnovale at gcarnovale@ christepiscopal.org or Jane Slatten at janeslatten@gmail.com.

ST. PAUL’S STUDENTS WRITE SERVICEMEN: St. Paul’s juniors in Brother Richard Kovatch’s English class made practical use of the knowledge gained from a lesson on formal letter writing. The members of the class wrote 100 letters to servicemen stationed in Kabul, Afghanistan, and packed boxes filled with wet wipes, bubble gum, lip balm, sunflower seeds, granola bars and socks.

This enterprise is important to the students, because Junior Austin Wiles’ father, Craig, is stationed there. Craig Wiles delivered packages and said the soldiers referred to the packages as “gifts of love.”

The juniors packed boxes for Christmas with coffee, hot chocolate, Christmas cookies, lip balm and letters written on Christmas cards.

Photo provided by Bayou Lacombe Middle School

Photo provided by St. Paul’s School

Nick Chiasson, a senior at St. Paul’s School in Covington, has accepted a scholarship to play baseball at Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama. In the front row at the signing celebration are, from left, Darren, Nick, and Tina Chiasson. Behind them are St. Paul’s baseball coach Mick Nunez and athletics director Craig Ketelsen.

The student of the year at Bayou Lacombe Middle School in Lacombe is fifth-grader Zaria Anders. She was chosen to represent her school on the basis of her outstanding academic performance, leadership and communication skills. Zaria enjoys participating in the school’s garden and its annual farmers market.

Photo provided by Lake Castle

Lake Castle Private School celebrates 20 years in Madisonville. Shown wearing a specially designed commemorative shirt are, back, Peggy Swan; middle row, Sophia Radman, Nma Moghalu; and front, Mia Palma and Laurel Thompson.

Photo provided by St. Paul’s

St. Paul’s juniors in Brother Richard Kovatch’s English class wrote 100 letters to service men stationed in Kabul, Afghanistan, and packed boxes filled with needed items. Shown packing boxes are, from left, Deonte’ Sorapuru, Hayden Burket and Sergio Barrios, while Austin Behlar works in the background.

Lake Castle Madisonville students create models of Count Dracula’s castle

Photo provided by Lake Castle Madisonville

After reading ‘Dracula’ by Bram Stoker, eighth-graders at Lake Castle Madisonville took on the assignment of creating models of his castle. In the front row, from left, are Monet Leckert, first place; and Kayla Casso, second place. In the back row are Nissi Hebert, third; Karsyn Ball, third; Timmy Ruffino, second; Jessica Navo, third; Kyle McLaughlin, third; Edward St. Pierre, second; and Kameron Newman, first.

8G F Thursday, January 8, 2015 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

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