The St. Tammany Advocate 02-19-2015

ART TABLE TO BE AUCTIONED FOR ANIMAL CARE ä PAGE 6G

THE ST.TAMMANY

ADVOCATE

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THURSDAY FEBRUARY 19, 2015 H

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

Sharon Edwards TAMMANY TIMES SEDWARDS@THEADVOCATE.COM

Breakfast benefits Habitat

The annual Community Partners Breakfast is called an “uplifting event” by Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West Director Jeff St. Romain. The third annual breakfast will be held at 8 a.m. on March 5 in Mandeville. A highlight of the event will be the screening of the film “Because of This House,” with interviews from Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West homeowners.

“Our homeowners have great stories to tell about overcoming adversity and the impact of homeownership on their families,” he said.

The nonprofit, ecumenical Christian ministry seeks to break the cycle of poverty by creating affordable housing. Homeowners perform “sweat equity” to help build the homes and qualify for the zero-percent mortgage.

St. Romain is aware that as St. Tammany Parish continues to grow, “affordable workforce housing remains an obstacle that impacts thousands of families in our community who are working in our hotels, restaurants, hospitals, grocery stores, business offices and schools.”

Habitat is also working in the community to help families prepare to become homeowners through a variety of available programs.

In 2013, it opened the St. Tammany Homeownership Center, offering classes and counseling throughout the year.

In a recent newsletter, St. Romain announced that two families have closed on homes through the USDA 502 Direct Loan Program; five families are working to purchase homes through the USDA Direct Loan Program; and one family closed using FHA financing through a lending partner. Thirteen families are participating in the Sweat Equity Process to become Habitat for Humanity homeowners.

In addition, the Homeownership Center utilizes trained volunteers each tax season to assist hundreds of low-income families with income tax preparation. The program aids families and makes them aware of services available at the center.

Through community partnerships, Habitat West can increase the number of families on a homeownership path. Work crews have positions available on houses being built March 24-26. Individuals or groups can register online at www. habitatstw.org/volunteer or contact Jennifer Messina at jmessina@habitatstw.org.

Habitat also accepts used cars, boats, trucks and RVs, and the proceeds from sales help build homes. People can shop for needed items at the ReStore at 1400 North Lane in Mandeville and donate through the website.

For an invitation to the Community Partners Breakfast or to learn more, email jstromain@habitatstw.org or call (985) 893-3172, ext.

231.

Free home indeed for trafficking victims

BY MISSIE NOEL

Special to The Advocate Most St. Tammany residents are unaware of the risk and presence of the often hidden crime of human trafficking.

But one local couple is hoping to change that.

Beth Salcedo is the executive director of the Louisiana Coali-

tion against Human Trafficking. Her husband, psychologist Dr. Rafael Salcedo, is her partner in developing public awareness. Together, they have created a safe haven for victims of this deplorable crime.

The couple are the founders of the Free Indeed Home, a new 10-bed shelter in St. Tammany parish dedicated to the rehabili-

tation of young girls who have been victims of sex trafficking and exploitation. At no cost to the girls, the Free Indeed Home will provide physical, mental and spiritual health care, while helping them improve their life skills and educational levels.

The home is certified by the Department of Health and Hospitals and is in the final stages

of licensing that will allow the home to receive the girls.

The home is warm and inviting, with five bedrooms, each with two beds and a bathroom.

The furniture is white and clean, and the walls are painted in soothing pastel shades with warm quilts and colorful artwork. A local Lutheran church’s quilting group has donated the

quilts that adorn each twin bed.

There is an exercise room upstairs, with windows overlooking a peaceful landscape. All the furnishings in the spacious living area and offices were donated, including the comfortable therapy rooms, pictures and rugs. äSee HOME, page 3G

Gala fêtes artists

BY SHARON EDWARDS

sedwards@theadvocate.com

Photos provided by Mystic Krewe of Mardi Paws

King Rudy Hancock

Queen Dottie Creighton

RUFF ROAD

Advocate staff report

Dogs will be strutting their stuff and sniffing for prizes when the Mystic Krewe of Mardi Paws’ 21st annual parade begins at 2 p.m. Sunday at 140 Jackson St. on the Mandeville lakefront.

This year’s theme is “Mardi Paws — Takes a Road Trip!”

Registration is available the day of the parade and funds raised go to support selected nonprofits: The Miracle League Northshore, Children’s Hospital New Orleans, Scott’s Wish and the St. Tammany Spay and Neuter Program.

Reigning as the 2015 Parade Marshals are Ella Vidal and Clayton Burke, players in the Miracle League.

The league provides teams sports for children with disabilities at Coquille Parks and Recreation facility in Madisonville.

Ella Vidal is a first-grader at Pontchartrain Elementary School. Born with profound hearing loss, Ella has received a cochlear implant to help her hear and recently played soccer for the Miracle League. She will parade with the Mardi Paws 2015

Monte the Maltese, this year’s spokespup for the Mystic Krewe of Mardi Paws, poses in a catcher’s mitt while visiting one this year’s beneficiaries, the Miracle Network.

The krewe parades Sunday on the Mandeville lakefront to benefit local nonprofits.

Spokesdoggie Monte, an almost 1-year-old Maltese.

Clayton Burke is a third-grader at Lancaster Elementary in Madisonville. He was born with spina bifida

and began playing baseball, starting with T-ball with the Madisonville Youth Boosters when he was 4. He will parade with his dog Buddy.

Nashville recording artist Jamie Lynn Spears is this year’s celebrity monarch. The Pussyfooters women’s dance group will join the parade, and the 2015 celebrity mascot is Pierre the Pelican.

Each year, dogs and their owners vie for the top 10 Big Poop Trophies for best in show and the 10 Mini Poop Trophies for runners up as well as Glittered Poop, suitable for display, for honorable mentions.

Participants can register online at www.mardipaws.com or the day of the parade beginning at 12:30 p.m.

Registration is a $15 donation for one dog and its escorts, $30 for two dogs and a $45 donation for three or more dogs from the same household to enter the parade.

Animals must be in costume to participate and be current on vaccinations and shots. Animals must be on a leash, not in “season” and be familyfriendly with no vicious tendencies. äSee ROAD, page 3G

Some of St. Tammany’s most accomplished artists were recently recognized at the President’s Arts Awards, presented by the St. Tammany Parish Commission on Cultural Affairs.

The 10th annual presentation was transformed into Appetite for Art, a gala celebration that moved from floor to floor of the St. Tammany Parish Justice Center in Covington. The courthouse holds one of the largest displays of the artwork purchased through a percent for the arts tax on new construction in St. Tammany. There are 70 pieces in the Justice Center and 211 pieces total in the Public Art Collection.

This is the first year the parish had presented a ticketed awards event, and the funds will be used for a new public arts program. More than a dozen roundabouts built throughout the parish will be landscaped and many will incorporate public art pieces.

Wensel Conroy, St. Tammany äSee GALA, page 4G

Advocate staff photo by SCOTT THRELKELD

St. Tammany Parish President Pat Brister, left, and chef Leah Chase share a laugh during Appetite for Art, the 10th annual President’s Arts Awards Gala and fundraiser on Jan. 31 at the St. Tammany Parish Justice Center in Covington.

Chase received the Native Son Award.

Explore natural beauty of refuge gardens at open house

Photo provided by USFWS

A camellia in bloom at the Bayou Gardens at the Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuges headquarters in Lacombe.

beauty to be found on the Big Branch Marsh National visitor center’s grounds is Wildlife Refuge remains one the annual Bayou Gardens of St. Tammany Parish’s most open house on Feb. 21 at the beautiful treasures, with Southeast Louisiana National marsh, piney forests and tranWildlife Refuges Headquarsition zones between the two ters, 61389 La. 434, Lacombe. attracting thousands of visitors The program, which will be each year.

REC & held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., will While some folks are aware of this jewel on the north shore, LEISURE highlight the historic camellia ANDREW gardens on-site. others may be unfamiliar The 110-acre property with the refuge, as well as the CANULETTE known as Bayou Gardens is visitor’s center on-site, and the nestled just off picturesque Bayou many programs offered there each Lacombe. Many of the camellias year. on-site date back to the 1930s, when One opportunity to discover the

the property was privately owned.

Today, they form a meandering, yet elaborate, path of flora at the refuge.

More than 400 varieties of camellias and exotic plants can be seen in the ornamental gardens.

“The flowers really are just beginning to bloom right now,” Southeast Louisiana NWR Supervisory Park Ranger David Stoughton said. “If the weather is anything like it has been recently, and all things tell us it should be, it’s going to be a beautiful event.” äSee GARDENS, page 3G

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community

Advocate photos by MISSIE NOEL

Randi Hoffman, Jeff Shiell and Tina Hoffman

Lee and Scarlett Cosgrove at the Krewe de Paws ball

Krewe de Paws celebrates five years

Slidell’s Krewe de Paws celebrated its fifth anniversary with the theme “Laissez les BONE Temps Rouler!” Olde Towne Slidell’s special krewe for canines brings awareness to pet rescue and adoption as well as promoting the businesses within Olde Towne.

The krewe donates proceeds from its ball and parade to various local animal-loving nonprofit organizations. This year’s recipients include Help!

Search and Rescue Dog Team; St. Tammany Animal Resource Team; Slidell Animal Shelter/Slidell Animal Assistance League; St. Tammany Animal Shelter — Lacombe; and the Camellia City Bark Park.

Serving as grand marshal this year was Lauren TAMMANY “Fleurty Girl” Thom, accompanied by her ChiSCENE huahuas Zulu and Coconut. Following the parade, MISSIE a “Tailgating Pawty” was held at the parking lot NOEL behind Café Du Bone and KY’s Restaurant. This year’s 1-mile parade was dedicated in memory of the krewe’s 2014 Queen Zorah.

Under the leadership of Denise Indorf and founder Gene Duvic, the ball was held in late January at the Sunrise Bistro in Old Towne. The royal court was picked at the ball, by random drawing, and included: King Buddha Hoffman, a 13-year-old chow/Lab mix; Queen Madison Eilts, a 12-year-old yellow Labrador retriever; Maid Flip Flop Stubblefield-Kent, a 6-year-old mixed breed; Duke Winston Mallard, a 5-year-old goldendoodle; Maid Geigh Gammon, an 8-year-old rat terrier; Maid Sashi Pollock, an 8-year-old golden retriever; and Maid Heidi Tesdell, a border collie mix.

For more information on the Krewe de Paws, visit www.krewedepawsofoldetowne.com.

Nancy and Bill Baldwin

Gene Duvic and Denise Indorf at the Krewe de Paws ball in Slidell

Laura and Delaney Toups at Krewe de Paws

Jennifer Gammon

Olivia and Eva Eaton

House of Windsor royalty

Beverly Reaney let’s the good times roll at the Windsor Mar- Windsor krewe members Maxine Gindart and Dora Cook di Gras Ball.

Windsor Queen Ruthie Fabacher and her King Robert Fabacher.

Royal Maid Tecy Morse and escort Garrett Simon Royal Maid Ruth Hohn escorted by Tristan Mohr Royal Maid Pep Dudenheffer

“Color Our World With Love” was the theme at the annual Mardi Gras Ball presented by the Windsor Senior Living Center. Mandeville Mayor Donald Villere was on hand at the festive presentation, held in the center’s large formal living area.

Serving as krewe captain this year was Betty LaCroix. She led the festivities with a grand entrance followed by krewe members Ronald Plaisance, LaLa Barger, Joe Zarich, June Blanchard, Jen Ortis, Dora Cook, Maxine Gindhart, Barbara Kenny and Sara Wyman.

With great fanfare and a trumpet serenade, the royal court was announced. Serving as king and queen 2015 were Robert and Ruthie Fabacher. The Fabachers have been married for nearly 68 years. Windsor General Manager April Wagner presented the couple with roses.

Introduced as royal maids of the court were Pep Dudenheffer, Rosalie Grasso, Tecy Morse, Joan Howard and Ruth Hohn. The maids were escorted into the ballroom by members of the Mandeville High School Marine Corps Junior ROTC. Following a Champagne toast among the krewe and royals, Villere read his proclamation to the group, and the captain’s whistle indicated the start of the first royal dance. Following the presentation, the residents were entertained with music from the vintage jazz quartet and then second-lined to enjoy refreshments in the dining room.

Special recognition at the conclusion of the ball included honoring Mary Moreaux for her decorations, the kitchen and dining staff for the refreshments and the emcee for the event, Lylln Brinkman.

Serving as a Royal Maid at the Windsor’s annual Mardi Gras Ball is Joan Howard with her escort Adrian Lopez. Missie Arata Noel is the society and features writer for the St. Tammany Advocate. She can be contacted by email at jrnoel@bellsouth.net.

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community HOME

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Cocaptains, from left, are Kathy Lowery, Kim Wells, 2015 Ball Captain Carol Beech and cocaptain Jill Scholl.

King and Queen Samaritan LXV Major Troy Bracket and Dawn Brackett

Slidellians Ball crowns King and Queen Samaritan LXV Slidell Women’s Civic Club hosted the Krewe of Slidellians LXV Ball Masque with the theme “An Evening of International Celebration.” The highlight of the evening was the crowning of Samaritan LXV King Troy Brackett and Queen Dawn Sharpe Brackett.

The Northshore Harbor Center was transformed into an atmosphere of global merriment with décor and music; the royal court promenaded to songs, “It’s a Small Small World,” the “Highland Cradle Song,” “Espani Cani” and “Oriental Village” and other international festive tunes.

The United States Marine Color Guard carried the flags, followed by the singing of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” led by Jennifer Drennan.

The Slidell Women’s Civic Club was founded in 1947 by Anita Breisacher, Blanche Carroll, Virginia Madison and Peggy Solberger. The evening took on special meaning as the krewe honored Carroll and Solberger.

The 2015 ball captain for the evening’s festivities was Carol Beech, and her co-captains were Kathy Lowrey, Jill Scholl, and Kim Glover Wells.

The night was also special to past Samaritans as they were thanked once again for their dedication to the community.

The ball participants and Slidell Women’s Civic Club hailed the 2014 Krewe of Slidellians royalty Queen Samaritan LXIV Ms.

ROAD

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The animal’s escort is his or her official pooper scooper.

The route is less than a mile and takes about 45 minutes to walk, according to information provided on the website.

There is a reviewing stand and post-parade extravaganza held near the parade’s end around the Gazebo on the lakefront near Lakeshore Drive and Lafitte Street.

The post-parade extravaganza area has sponsor booths and

Photo provided by SWCC

The royal court, from left to right, are Elwin Ordoyne III, Julie Teal, Bill Davis, JoBeth Kavanaugh, Chad Duffaut, Dionne Graham, Lynn St. Jean, Brooks Trotter, Glenda Drennan, Richard Artigue, Lonnie Favre and Daniel Seuzeneau.

Kelly King and King Samaritan LXIV Dr. Jack Devereux.

Queen Brackett is a native of Slidell and married to Troy Brackett. She has been the CEO for the East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce since 2007. She is a certified legal assistant and Louisiana notary public. She was awarded the Leadership Award by the Louisiana Association for Chamber of Commerce twice and has held the position of president of the Louisiana Chamber of Commerce Association. She was named the Woman of the Year for the Slidell Business and Professional Women in 2002, and the Louisiana Legislative Women’s Caucus Foundation named her a Women of Excellence in Business.

Princesses for the Queen were Shannaline Gayle Sharpe,

Jacqueline Cameron Sharpe and Isabele Airey.

King Samaritan Brackett is a native of Yuma, Arizona, and has lived in the Slidell area since 1978. He is a graduate of Salmen High School. He is currently employed as an Enterprise Operations Officer for the Department of Homeland Security. He is also a major in the Louisiana Army National Guard and is currently the chief state safety officer.

Troy served in Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Upper Iowa University. He serves as a member of the Board of Commissioners for the St. Tammany Fire District 1. He was awarded the Military Community Service Award representing the entire Louisiana Army National

Guard.

Pages for the king were Zevon Braddy Sharpe and Jackson Albert Airey.

Representing Scotland and the Celebration of the Scottish Highland Games were Lynn St. Jean and Brooks Trotter.

Representing Bangladesh and the celebration of New Year’s were Dionne Graham and Fire Prevention Chief Chad Duffaut Sr. Representing Germany and the Oktoberfest were Julie Teal and Elwin Ordoyne III. Representing Spain and the La Feria de April were Glenda Drennan and Richard Artigue.

Representing Holland and the Tulip Festival were Jo Beth Kavanaugh and Bill Davis.

Representing Taiwan and the Moon Festival were Lonnie Favre and Daniel Seuzeneau.

free fun activities for children, as there are sponsor concession booths along the route.

This year’s Royal Hairs are: n King Rudy Hancock, an 11-year-old beagle mix. He will be escorted by Bob, Jen, and Madison Hancock. n Grand Duke Henri’ Pearce is a 3-year-old cockapoo mix.

He will be escorted by Jessica, Allyson, Josie and Matthew Pearce. n Duke Prince Felipe is a 2-year-old standard poodle. He will be escorted by Rene and Otto Mehrgut. n Scepter Bearer to His Maj-

esty Prince Reginald III (Trey) is a 5-year-old Dalmation. He will be escorted by Scott Williams and Scott Discon. n Queen Dottie Creighton is a 2-year-old Basenji/Chihuahua mix. She will be escorted by Bruce Creighton. n Lady in Waiting GiGi Comeaux is a 1-year-old Shih Tzu. She will be escorted by Bob and Billie Comeaux and Grace Comeaux Piro. n Maid Sadie Saylor is a 9-year old border collie. She will be escorted by Liz and Doug Saylor. n Scepter Bearer to Her Majesty Scarlett Barr is an 11-year-

old blue rat terrier. She will be escorted by Brittney Barr.

The theme throws this year will include the special, rare, gold dog dropping given out by the royals, the purple dog droppings thrown by past royalty, and this year, a limited number of special beads will be unleashed. Look for stuffed animals (almost always cats), beads, cups and doubloons.

For registration forms, information or directions, call the Mardi Paws office at (985) 8920060 or the St. Tammany Tourist Office at (800) 634-9443. The parade rain date is March 1.

The project has been two years in the making. The home had to be rewired for security; a new well had to be dug and a new septic system installed.

According to the Department of Justice, two-thirds of all runaways will be approached by someone wanting to traffic them. The trafficking can include becoming sexual slaves or labor slaves.

There are close to 200,000 homeless children in Louisiana, of which 180,000 are at risk of exploitation.

The Salcedos began this work after they saw a story about human trafficking on television. They could not believe this was happening in the United States.

Beth Salcedo said their first reaction was, “This happens in a Third World country, but surely not here.” Dr. Salcedo began talking to local judges, social workers and the state Department of Children and Family Services and began to recognize that there is a problem here.

The couple helped spread the word about trafficking during the Super Bowl in New Orleans two years ago.

“We were thankful to be such a large part of the effort that weekend in New Orleans. We handed out literature and books with information along Airline Highway, at truck stops and rest areas.”

Even here on the north shore, Beth Salcedo said they talked to a local truck stop owner who had actually witnessed human trafficking.

Within the past five years, trafficking has become a more prominent topic on news shows and television programs.

“It’s always been going on,” according to Beth Salcedo, “but with social media on the rise, the awareness has grown.” From large national rings to local neighborhood rings, human trafficking is a real issue. “All you need is a vulnerable child or woman and someone willing to exploit them. That’s all it takes.”

The Louisiana legislature is at the forefront of the nation in penalties, aid and victim therapy for trafficking. New laws have been enacted that include a recent provision that “Johns,” or pimps, must now register as child sex offenders upon conviction.

The law states essentially that anyone under the age of 18 cannot be forced through fraud or coercion with the intent to exploit for sexual or labor purposes.

“Just having that definition on the books is a step in the right direction,” Salcedo said.

Dr. Salcedo has had several judges contact him regarding trafficking incidents in St. Tammany.

“Once you learn how to identify these children, you start seeing them in a different way. There is no reason for a 16-year-old girl to

have a 35-year-old boyfriend.

When you see foster children with expensive cellphones, numerous tattoos and older boyfriends, we have concerns.”

Many victims come from broken homes or foster care, were abused as children or are runaways, which makes them easy targets for submission. Beth Salcedo shares the story that a news agency ran about the trusting nature of girls, including collegeage girls, who were easily tricked into getting into vans with strangers.

“These girls just want the love and attention, and the traffickers know this. They use the same techniques to target the rebels, the loners, the outsiders, the insecure, needy and desperate,” Dr. Salcedo said. “These victims don’t want this life for themselves, but once they are in, the pimp or ‘John’ can manipulate the victim against their families and friends. They are master manipulators and they employ the ‘lover boy’ technique to pull their victims in.”

Once in, there is no way out. Victims are often gangraped for days, drugged, abused and threatened into compliance at risk of death.

It’s a helpless situation.

The Salcedos share stories of witnesses coming forward with knowledge of seeing young girls transferred from 18-wheelers into waiting vehicles right here in St. Tammany parish. That’s why public awareness is so important. People need to report this crime when they see it so the victims can be removed from the situation and find rehabilitation.

The “Free Indeed Home” will provide housing and therapy for young girls. The program also will include family counseling so that the girls can have an option of reuniting with their biological families. Foster families also will participate in therapy programs so that they can be better prepared to accept and support the young girls for placement.

Funding for the home will be provided by Medicare services, grants and private donations. The Free Indeed Home is a nonprofit, 501(c)3 program and will need donations to maintain secure funding. The mailing address for donations is P.O. Box 4273, Covington, LA 70433.

“Two of our goals are to be able to stock a closet full of personal hygiene supplies, and to ready our kitchen for preparing nutritious meals for 10 girls upon opening,” Beth Salcedo said. A wish list registry is available at the Louisiana Coalition Against Human Trafficking website, www.LACAHT.org.

If someone is affected by human trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Resources Center by calling (888) 373-7888 or texting BeFree (233733), or contact an LACAHT representative at (504) 343-7381.

All services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

GARDENS

Continued from page 1G The day’s agenda includes five different guided tours of the grounds — at 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. The tours are easy to walk, though for people having difficulty with movement, a few golf carts will be available, Stoughton said. Tours will cover a brief history of the property and complex, as well as the variety of camellias there. There also are a healthy number of native trees, shrubs and flowers to be seen on the tours.

The entire grounds will be open for self-guided tours, as well.

At 10 a.m., camellia enthusiast Hunter Charbonnet will present a program on the history of the camellia. Charbonnet is a board member of the Northshore Camellia Society and American Camellia Society. Then at noon, Northshore Camellia Society President Jim Campbell will share trade secrets and demonstrate grafting and other effective methods for rooting limbs on

Tuesday, February 24, 2015 at 6:30pm

Photo provided by USFWS

The annual Bayou Gardens open house will be held Feb. 21 at the Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuges headquarters in Lacombe. existing camellias.

Now in its sixth year, Stoughton said the Bayou Gardens open house attracts approximately 500 people annually from throughout southeast Louisiana. The event is staged by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service of the Southeast Louisiana Refuges, the Northshore Camellia Society and the Camellia Club of New Orleans.

Bayou Gardens is main-

tained by the Friends of Louisiana Wildlife Refuges, the nonprofit group that raises money and enlists volunteer help for area refuges.

The open house is free and open to the public. Coffee and cookies will be available in the visitor’s center, Stoughton said.

There also will be a live camellia plant sale, with a portion of proceeds assisting the

Friends group.

For more information on the Bayou Gardens open house, or Southeast Louisiana Refuges in general, visit www.fws.gov/ southeastlouisiana or call (985) 882-2000.

Andrew Canulette covers recreation and leisure activities for the St. Tammany Advocate. To reach him, email acanulette@charter.net.

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

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Advocate staff photos by SCOTT THRELKELD

St. Tammany Parish President Pat Brister, second from left on the back row, poses with honorees during Appetite for Art, the 10th annual President’s Arts Awards Gala and fundraiser on Jan. 31 at the St. Tammany Parish Justice Center in Covington.

The honorees are, front row, from left: Phil Anselmo, Musical Artist of the Year; executive chef Leah Chase of Dookie Chas’s Restaurant in New Orleans, the first Native Son Award; and Alison Pelegrin, Literary Artist of the Year. Back row, from left; B.J. Peterson, president of the Rotary Club of Slidell Northshore, accepting Patron of the Year for the Rotary; Brister; Erick Loos, Culinary Artist of the Year; Martin Needom, Visual Artist of the Year; Judge Frederick Stephen Ellis, President’s Award; Sara Pagones, Performing Artist of the Year; and Robert Seago, Lifetime Achievement.

Photos provided by Ozone Camellia Club

Greeting guests at the party are, from left, Lisa Emery and reception hosts Dave and Rita Bogan.

GALA

Continued from page 1G Parish’s director of culture, recreation and tourism said each roundabout will reflect the personality of the area.

Appetite for Art was held on all three floors of the Justice Center. Each floor set the stage for past President’s Art Awards recipients to show their talents.

On the first floor, Chef John Besh presented a patron party followed by entertainment by Ronnie Kole and Javier Juarez dancers. With dances that incorporated salsa, samba, hip hop and a little Flamenco, Juarez and his dancers led the crowds to the second floor for the next show. A stage was set up there for Christian Serpas to perform, followed by selections from Slidell Little Theatre performers.

The gala concluded on the third floor where a screen was set up to show short videos that had been created about each recipient. The award each artist received was created by John Hodge, also a past recipient.

The honorees were Sara Pagones, Performing Artist of the Year; Martin Needom, Visual Artist of the Year; Eric Loos, Culinary Artist of the Year; Alison Pelegrin, Literary Artist of the Year; Slidell Rotary Northshore, Patron of the Year; Phil Anselmo, Musical Artist of the Year; Robert Seago, Lifetime Achievement Award; Frederick Steve Ellis, President’s Award; and the first Native Son Award went to Leah Chase.

Chase noted the importance of the arts and that she was happy to hear a monument is being built for Walker Percy at the Madisonville Branch Library, not far from where she grew up. When she travels, she said, her impression of a city is often influenced by evidence of the arts in public places.

Anselmo, front man for the heavy metal band Pantera and Down, said his favorite part of being on the road is coming home. He credits the pristine air, his animals and family with helping him recoup from “playing hard.” He said St. Tammany is also a place for him to innovate.

“Not all the beats have been played, not all the notes have been hit.” He is looking to make “music that’s created from home,” rather than on the road.

“There’s no more perfect spot for it to come to life.”

Seago’s lifetime achievement is a the result of daily practice.

He said he has an obsession with Navy history and has built 35 ship models, each taking about a year to complete. He also plays banjo, violin, cello, mandolin, “all instruments that tune in fifths.” He tries practicing one hour every day.

“I love music more than art, I’ve been playing 50 years,” but his lifetime achievement was for his career in painting.

“I didn’t start painting until I came to St. Tammany,” he said.

His favorite subjects are Mardi Gras and “en plein air” painting along the Tchefuncte, Pearl and Bogue Falaya rivers.

Pelegrin grew up on the West Bank, but her recent poetry is full of inspirations from living in St. Tammany.

“It’s the backdrop for my work. I’m honored to be recognized for it.” She said poetry is a type of meditation. She carries a notebook in her purse and may see something over and over then, the “inspiration just

The 2014 Camellia Festival was dedicated to David and Ann Manella. From left are Robert Stroud, show chair; Kay Taylor, president; Ann Manella; Sabrina Audibert, dinner dance chair; and David Manella.

Ozone Camellia Club honors judges at reception Advocate staff report

Musician Phil Anselmo, of the heavy metal band Pantera, celebrates his award.

Artist Robert Seago speaks after accepting the Lifetime Achievement Award from St. Tammany Parish President Pat Brister during Appetite for Art.

Culinary Artist of the Year Erick Loos, of La Provence, left, and Martin Needom, Visual Artist of the Year, pass a good time during Appetite for Art, the 10th annual President’s Arts Awards Gala and fundraiser.

Members of the St. Tammany Parish Commission on Cultural Affairs gather during the 10th annual President’s Arts Awards Gala and fundraiser. From left, are: Kelly Elliott, Willie Paretti, Lisa Barnett, Jacki Schneider, Stephen B. Cefalu, Sue Osbon, Simone Burke, Skarlett Roa, Jenifer Besh and Jennifer Bushnell. smacks you in the face.” She has three books, and has just finished another collection.

Loos received his award in his chef’s apron, having served slow cooked rabbit and chestnut cavatelli from La Provence, one of 17 restaurants and bakeries that contributed to the event. He said seasonality is his inspiration and respect for where the food comes from.

Needom said, “none of us gets to this podium alone. The support from the community is large,” including his wife, fellow artist Susan Needom. He said he learned in 1995 when he was appointed to the Art Commission about “the role of art to benefit the community.”

His work has drawn on the piney woods, rivers, swamps and marshlands — the rich environment in St. Tammany he called “nutrient to the artists.”

Pagones, who sang “Memory” from Cats with Slidell Little Theatre artists, said being a singer, actress and director in the community is “an adventure.” She noted the “deep bonds” created when building a show together. “It’s something we cherish.”

Ellis, a World War II veteran and retired judge, said he began writing his history of St. Tammany as part of the US Bicentennial commemoration.

He wanted to document many unique features of the parish’s history but stopped in the 1920s because “I started running into people I knew.” He said he’s touched to be recognized for a book that was “a labor of love.”

B.J. Petersen, in accepting the Patron of the Year award on behalf of the Rotary Club of Slidell Northshore, said, “The arts is an important building

block of community. It builds better quality of life for people.” Suzanne Stymiest said Rotary has a history of supporting the arts from symphony in the park to the Slidell Heritage Festival, which has live music and an arts walk.

“What’s good for the community is good for business,” she said. The arts are part of a “well rounded community.”

Also remembered at the event were past award recipients whose legacy and contribution remain. Mentioned was one of the first to be honored, Clarence Gatemouth Brown, and most recently, Nolan Lefort.

“I want to thank the artists who allow us into their creative worlds,” Parish President Pat Brister said. “They inspire us and teach others to strive for excellence.”

The Ozone Camellia Club thanked the judges of its camellia show with a reception at the waterfront home of Dave and Rita Bogan. Camellia Club trophy donor patrons also attended the reception to meet and thank the judges.

Members of the Senior Court who were on hand to welcome guests to the reception included Queen Victoria Leigh Stevens, Consort William Roger Dowden II, Maid Alexis Margaux Kern, Maid Madeleine Grace Pouw, Maid Kaegan Jacqueline Case, Honor Duke

Andrew Chance Foltz, Honor Duke Michael Scott Paulsen II, Honor Duke Matthew Christopher Smith, Duke Patrick Alan Black, Duke Austin Turner Dixon and Duke Max Gregory Long.

The 2014 Ozone Camellia Show was dedicated to David and Ann Manella for their many years of service to the organization.

The Ozone Camellia Club was established in 1951 and aims to increase interest in camellias, assist members and others in growing camellias and promote camellia shows to showcase blooms.

BUSINESS BRIEFS SLU BUSINESS SEMINAR: The Louisiana Small Business Development Center at Southeastern Louisiana University and SCORE Northshore are hosting a free seminar designed to help individuals select a business entity.

The free seminar, titled “Selecting Your Business Entity,” will take place in Mandeville from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25, at the St. Tammany Administrative Complex located at 21454 Koop Drive.

“When starting a new business, one of the most important decisions is choosing the entity the business will operate as,” said Sandy Summers, assistant director of the Small Business Development Center. “Key issues to consider in the decision include taxation, state law treatment, nature of the assets, transferability, estate planning, limiting liability, and retention of control.

Summers said the course provides a general overview of the different business forms, including the issues related to their formation, management, dissolution and taxation. Additional points of discussion include the necessary things one should do and avoid doing when starting a new business.

Although there is no cost to attend, seating is only guaranteed for pre-registered attendees. To register or for more information, call (985) 549-3831.

Online registration is also available at www.lsbdc.org.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: The St. Tammany Economic Development Foundation will recognize the achievements of several companies and individuals during its annual luncheon from noon to 1 p.m. Monday, March 2, at the Northshore Harbor Center, 100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell.

“Our luncheon serves as an opportunity to celebrate recent successes together with the community and to focus

our efforts for the coming year,” said Brenda Bertus, CEO for STEDF. “We distribute copies of our annual report, enjoy a delicious meal and reconnect with business partners while recognizing the economic drivers in the area.”

Individual tickets will cost $45 until Feb. 19, when the cost will rise to $50. A reserved table for eight will cost $500.

Seating is limited, and guaranteed reservations are required by Feb. 23. Credit cards are accepted only in advance; cash and checks will be accepted at the door. Cancellations received after Feb. 26 cannot be refunded. To make a reservation, call (985) 8097874 or email stedfinfo@stedf. org.

PHENOMENAL WOMEN RETREAT: Professional Women of St. Tammany will hold a retreat with the theme “Creating the WOW from Within” from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, March 6, at Vintage Court, 75082 La. 25, Covington.

The day of networking and learning will include inspirational speakers, hip-hop dance lessons and tango demonstrations. There will be swag bags, door prizes and a silent auction.

WOW University will provide five 15-minute workshops on wellness/health/nutrition, finance, beauty, fitness and fashion.

Keynote speakers will be Ryan Lowe, president and chief attitude officer of “Get Off Your Attitude Seminars and Presentations”; Diane Lyons, founder of FestiGals, an organization dedicated to uniting women of all ages, professions and cultural backgrounds for an informative and festive weekend experience in New Orleans; and Betsie Gambel, president of Gambel Communications.

The cost is $60 for members and $75 for others. To register, visit www.pw-st.org.

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community HEALTH BRIEFS BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP: A grief recovery support group will meet at 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, at the Slidell Memorial Hospital Regional Cancer Center, 1120 Robert Blvd. For information, call (985) 280-6612.

SURVIVE DAT!: A breast cancer support group for young survivors will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, 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.

DENTAL HEALTH: Nicole Molligan of The Children’s Dental Cottage will discuss the importance of proper at-home oral health practices and regular dental visits Feb. 19 from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. for toddlers to 1-year-olds and from 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. for birth to 11 months at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. The cost is one canned good for the Covington Food Bank. For information, call (985) 898-4435.

1, 2, 3, 4 PARENTS: Positive discipline skills will be taught in the context of the social and behavioral stages of children ages 1 through 4 during the 1, 2, 3, 4 Parents class from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 21, at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. The cost is $25 for members, $35 for nonmembers and $15 per spouse and includes the book “Parenting Your 1- to 4-Year-Old.” Couples will share a book. To register or for information, contact ksupan@stph.org or (985) 898-4435.

BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT: A Brain Injury Connections support group will meet from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Conference Center, 1202 S. Tyler St., Covington. This group is designed for people who have sustained brain injuries because of trauma, stroke, aneurysm or other neurological incidents. For information, contact Ann Mejia at (985) 640-0498 or anntm70@yahoo.com.

LAMAZE IN SLIDELL: A two-session course on Lamaze techniques for coping with pain during labor will be held from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 21 and 28, on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center, Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell. The fee is $90 per couple, or $50 for those preregistered at SMH. To register, call (985) 280-2657 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. Monday, Feb. 23, on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center, SMH Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell.

SLEEP APNEA SOLUTIONS: Sue Blazek of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Sleep Disorders Center, will talk about making life easier for people who use a CPAP for sleep apnea at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, in the conference room of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Founders Building, 1150 Robert Blvd., Slidell. Free blood pressure

screenings and CPAP/BI-PAP pressure checks will be available.

To register, call (985) 280-8823 or visit SlidellMemorial.org.

GUY TALK: The Guy Talk program for boys ages 10 to 13 explains the physical, social and emotional changes teens undergo during puberty. Hygiene, skin care and healthy eating will be discussed.

Keith Lemonier, RN, will answer questions. Teens must be accompanied by an adult. The program will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center at the SMH Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell. The cost is $10 per family.

To register, call (985) 280-2657 or visit SlidellMemorial.org.

PLAY AND LEARN: Parents and their children, 16 months to 4 years, play and learn together through music and movement, arts and crafts, and storytime at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. A class with a Mardi Gras Mambo theme will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24.

Class size is limited to 12 parent/ child couples. The cost is $15 per child for members and $24 for nonmembers. 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. Tuesday, Feb. 24, on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center, Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell.

ME & MY TOT TIME: Parents will discuss child development issues and parenting tips while their children enjoy playtime with other little ones on Wednesday, Feb. 25, on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center, Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell. The hour beginning at 9:30 a.m. is for toddlers who have just begun walking to 30 months; the hour beginning at 11 a.m. is for ages 31 months to preschool. For information, call (985) 280-8529.

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP: An Alzheimer’s disease support group will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, at Live Oak Village of Slidell, 2200 Gause Blvd. E., Slidell. To let organizers know you will be coming, call (985) 7814545.

NEW HEART DISEASE THERAPIES: Dr. Vasanth Bethala, cardiology medical director at Slidell Memorial Hospital, will give a presentation on innovative heart disease therapies and patient-centered care during a Lunch & Learn community event at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27, in the first-floor conference room of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Founders Building, 1150 Robert Blvd., Slidell.

New drugs and devices are coming out that can treat heart disease or failure in minimally invasive ways.

“The key goals for all of this progress are to minimize your stay in the hospital, to improve your outcome and to treat you without invasive surgery,” Bethala said.

To register, call (985) 280-2657 or visit SlidellMemorial.org.

BIRTHS Recent births at St. Tammany Parish Hospital in Covington include: n Merritt Lewis Verbois, born Jan. 21, son of Brandy Croom Verbois and Mark Lewis Verbois, of Hammond. He weighed 7 lbs., 4 oz. n Madelynn Isabella Lambert, born Jan. 23, daughter of Theresa Roberts Lambert and David Eugene Lambert Jr., of Roseland. She weighed 8 lbs., 13 oz. n Annalise Katherine Schulz, born Jan. 23, daughter of Anita Lorraine Blanchard and Brenton Garrick Schulz, of Mandeville. She weighed 7 lbs., 2 oz. n Adleigh Rayne Watts, born Jan. 23, daughter of Tiffany Jenkins Watts and Michael David Watts, of Sun. She weighed 7 lbs., 3 oz. n Jeremy Bryston Lewis Jr., born Jan. 24, son of Brookelyn Ariel Sexton and Jeremy Bryston Lewis, of Ponchatoula. He weighed 7 lbs., 8 oz. n Josiah Kenneth Truth Long, born Jan. 24, son of Maggy Marie Long and Jacob Tyler Long, of Folsom. He weighed 6 lbs., 12 oz. n McKenzee Rochelle McNab, born Jan. 24, daughter of Ashlee Rochelle Yax and Lucas Anthony McNab, of Lacombe. She weighed

8 lbs., 2 oz. n Lyla Rose Ford, born Jan. 26, daughter of Alicia Michelle Williams and Brandon Michael Ford, of Mandeville. She weighed 6 lbs., 14 oz. n Lyric Maddox Santiago, born Jan. 26, son of Alexis Marie Santiago, of Folsom. He weighed 7 lbs., 13 oz. n Luka A. James Shinkovich, born Jan. 26, son of Cierra Elaine Wolk and Devon A. Morgan Shinkovich, of Covington. He weighed 6 lbs., 10 oz. n Abby Jane Eustis, born Jan. 27, daughter of Jennifer Lee Eustis and Peyton Randolph Eustis, of Covington. She weighed 7 lbs., 13 oz. n Lillian Grace Gramstad, born Jan. 27, daughter of Whitney Stewart Gramstad and Adam David Gramstad, of Slidell. She weighed 6 lbs., 6 oz. n Brantley Miller Sumrall, born Jan. 28, son of Tara Elizabeth Breazeale and Jeremy Lance Sumrall, of Folsom. He weighed 7 lbs., 4 oz. n Morissa Eve Kirkland, born Jan. 29, daughter of Ashley Paige Kirkland and Dustin Michael Kirkland, of Covington. She weighed 4 lbs., 8 oz.

Aces Against Aneurysms tennis tournament returns Advocate staff report The Aces Against Aneurysms tennis tournament will take place April 13 at the Pelican Athletic Club, 1170 Meadowbrook Blvd., Mandeville. The deadline to register is April 8.

Aces Against Aneurysms was started by Rebecca Winchell, who survived an aneurysm in 2009; proceeds from this year’s tournament will go toward patient education materials for aneurysm survivors and their families.

“We have come a long way in our six-year history and have made a positive difference in the lives of those stricken with an aneurysm,” Winchell said. Last year’s tournament raised $8,000 for aneurysm research at the LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans department of neurosurgery.

This year’s donations will go toward producing informative brochures for patients recovering from an aneurysm. “It is a terrifying experience to wake up in the hospital after having had surgery for a brain aneurysm,” Winchell said. “I can’t stress enough how reassuring it is

to have helpful information to provide answers to the many questions patients and their families have.”

An aneurysm is an abnormal widening of an artery. A bulging sac forms and can burst, resulting in massive bleeding in the brain. People are typically born with aneurysms, and it sometimes takes 40 to 50 years before causing problems. Or it may never cause problems.

An estimated 6 million people, or 1 in 50, in the United States have an unruptured brain aneurysm. The annual rate of rupture is approximately 8 per 100,000 people, or about 25,000.

Symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm often come on suddenly. They may include a sudden, severe headache; neck pain; nausea and vomiting; sensitivity to light; fainting or loss of consciousness; and seizures.

Aces Against Aneurysms is a project of the Brain Support NOLA nonprofit. The entry fee for the tournament is $50. To register, email Barbara Fisher at bfisher@thepac.com before April 8. For information, visit brainsupportnola.com.

Slidell theater program shapes summer schedule Advocate staff report The YATS theater program for children is planning summer programs for all age levels, from prekindergarten through high school.

Young Actors Theatre of Slidell is a program of the Slidell Little Theatre that introduces young people to the stage.

The Mini-YATS program engages children from ages 4 to 8 for five days from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., during which they learn their lines, music and blocking, and make their props and

costumes. The week culminates in a performance Saturday morning. There are three sessions to choose from: June 1-6, June 8-13, June 15-20 and June 22-27.

Older YATS participants are separated by age groups to form the casts for four productions. Workshops topics range from dance, voice and stage combat to auditioning skills. Participants are guided through auditions in a supportive atmosphere designed to identify their strengths so they can find their best opportunity for success within the

play. All participants are then cast and rehearsals begins.

The audition prep workshop will be held May 26. Auditions will be held at 5 p.m. May 27 for Young Juniors entering grades four and five; at 7 p.m.

May 27 for Juniors entering grades six and seven; at 6 p.m. May 28 for Young Seniors entering grades eight and nine; and at 6 p.m. May 29 for Seniors entering grade 10 through finishing grade 12.

Registration opens April 1.

Visit www.slidelllittletheatre. org and sign up for email updates.

Photo provided by Christwood

Tom Hearty, artist Lory Lockwood and Hazel Hearty stand by ‘Ford ‘n Flames’ at the opening of the ‘Images of Desire’ exhibit at the Atrium gallery at Christwood, 100 Christwood Blvd., Covington.

TAMMANY TO DO COVINGTON “THE ODD COUPLE” AUDITIONS: 7 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, March 9 and 10, Playmakers Theater, 19106 Playmakers Road. Auditions to fill the roles of six women and two men in their 30s and 40s for a female version of “The Odd Couple.” For information, visit www.playmakersinc.com.

“IMAGES OF DESIRE:” 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday through Feb. 27, Atrium Gallery at Christwood, 100 Christwood Blvd. Paintings by photorealist Lory Lockwood.

The brilliant colors and reflective nature of the paintings capture reflection within reflection.

LPO NORTHSHORE: 7:30 p.m.

Friday, First Baptist Church Covington, 16333 Hwy. 1085.

“Rachmaninov Symphonic Dances” with guest conductor Teddy Abrams and rising pianist Alessio Bax in an evening of post-Romantic favorites by Rachmaninov, Debussy, and Ravel. Tickets $20-$55 at lpomusic.com.

CALLIGRAPHY 101: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., St. Tammany Art Association, 320 N. Columbia St. An intensive day of lettering for beginners with instructor Roxanne Beard. Cost $85. To register, call (985) 892-8650.

MADISONVILLE

NATURE AT NIGHT: 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 27, FairviewRiverside State Park, 119 Fairview Drive. An interpretive ranger will lead “Night Vision, a Journey into the Dark.” Participants will learn about eyes, perception of colors, shapes and movement, and how animals adapt for survival after dark. For ages 8 through adult, dress for the temperature and bring mosquito spray, but leave flashlights at home. Free with park admission of $2 per person. For information, call (985) 792-4652 or (888) 6773247.

MANDEVILLE LEARN TO KNIT: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays from Feb.

Photo provided by the LPO

Pianist Alessio Bax performs with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra Feb. 20 at First Baptist Church in Covington.

24 through March 5, Castine Center, Pelican Park, 63350 Pelican Drive. Janet Westover will teach Knitting 101. $38. To register, visit www.pelicanpark.com.

PELICAN PARK YOUTH SPORTS: Pelican Park, 63350 Pelican Drive, Mandeville. The youth baseball and softball registration will be held for the season that begins the week of March 30 and continues through June. The boys baseball program is for those ages 5-15 as of April 30. The softball program is for girls ages 5-15 as of Dec. 31, 2014. Returning players may register online at www.pelicanpark.com. New players may register in the Castine Center, between.

“SHE KILLS MONSTERS:” 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays Feb. 27 through March 15, 30 by Ninety Theatre, 880 Lafayette St. The north shore premiere of “She Kills Monsters,” a comedic romp into the world of fantasy role-playing games, written

by Qui Nguyen, and directed

by Tom Bubrig with the assistance of Deborah Marcelle.

Recommended for ages 16 and up. A midnight performance on Friday, March 6, encourages cosplay. For tickets, call (844) THE-3090 or visit www.tinyurl. com/30x90tix.

SLIDELL “MUSE” ARTISTS’ RECEPTION: 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 20, Slidell Little Theatre, 2024 Nellie Drive. An artists’ reception will be held for the invitational art exhibition “Muse: Works following the impulse of inspiration,” featuring artists Michael Aldana, Jamie Alonzo, Jessie Hornbrook and Benjamin Netterville. “Muse” is co-curated by Ben Diller and Cynthia Giachetti and on view through March 15.

BANTAM BASEBALL: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 21, Slidell Bantam Baseball Association fields, 3000 Rama Drive. On-site registration for the 2015 spring season of the Slidell Bantam Baseball Association. Online registration is available at www.sbba.net. For information, email info@sbba.net.

SALAD DAYS STUDENT ART: Noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday through Feb. 21; with special Saturday hours 9 a.m. to noon, Feb. 21, Slidell Cultural Center, 2055 Second St. The annual parishwide student art exhibit is on view through Feb. 21. Admission is free.

SLIDELL YOUTH FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION: 7 p.m. Feb. 24.

The first general membership meeting of the year at the SYFA Field House, 3158 Terrace Ave. NORTHSHORE GUMBO COOKOFF: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 28, Slidell Little Theatre, 2024 Nellie Drive. $10 for all-you-can eat gumbo and entertainment as teams compete for prizes and benefit SLT’s Next Stage project, the local chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC,) and Homeless Outreach for Youth in St. Tammany (HOYST.) Young children eat free, ample parking on site.

Call (985) 960-1177 or email northshoregumbo@gmail. com.

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

FAITH NOTES FISH FRIES IN MADISONVILLE: St. Anselm Catholic Church will hold fish fries every Friday night during Lent, beginning at 4 p.m. for drivethrough and 5 p.m. for dinein.

The meals are served in St. Joseph Hall on the church campus at 306 St. Mary St., Madisonville.

The offerings include fried or baked catfish platters; shrimp platters; and seafood platters, which include a softshell crab.

Also available are Caesar salad with shrimp, homemade gumbo and crawfish etouffée served over rice.

Platters include French fries and hush puppies, two homemade sides, a dessert and drink.

The phone number for the church office is (985) 8457342.

MANDEVILLE LENTEN FISH FRIES: Knights of Columbus Council 9240 at Our Lady of the Lake Roman Catholic Church will hold fish fries from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays during Lent, beginning Feb. 20, in the cafeteria of Our Lady of the Lake Elementary School, 316 Lafitte St., Mandeville.

Dinners are $9 and are available for dining in or taking out.

They include fried or baked catfish, bread, soft drink, dessert and two sides.

There also will be a food drive benefitting the Samaritan Center.

COVINGTON LENTEN FISH FRIES: Knights of Columbus Council 12906 at St. Peter Catholic Church will host fish fries from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays during Lent, beginning Feb. 20, in St. Mary’s Hall at the church, 125 E. 19th Ave., Covington.

Dinners include fried shrimp or Louisiana farmraised catfish served with homemade coleslaw, a portion of potato salad or french fries and French bread.

Inside St. Mary’s Hall, there will be a fast-track table for those who have preordered dinners.

To place an order, visit www.kofc12906covington. org by 3 p.m. Friday.

TABERNACLE MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH: Bishop Robert Taylor, of the Greater Northshore Full Gospel Baptist Church in Slidell, will be the guest speaker when Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church celebrates the seventh anniversary of Pastor Norman J. Farve at 3 p.m.

Feb. 22, at Tabernacle, 2445 Fourth St., Slidell.

The theme is “the shepherd who preaches the word in and out of season.”

The anniversary also will be celebrated with a musical performance at 7 p.m. Feb. 20, and a banquet at 7 p.m.

Feb. 21.

The banquet will be in the fellowship hall, and tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children under 12.

Call (985) 201-7800 for information.

WOMEN’S LENTEN REFLECTION: Catholic Women in Action, a committee of the Catholic Foundation, invites women to reflect on how they can spiritually prepare during Lent for Easter with a morning of reflection on “Mary, Make Our Hearts Like Yours.”

The Lenten session is March 2 at Mary Queen of Peace Church, 1501 W. Causeway Approach, in Mandeville. Mass will be celebrated by the Rev. Ian Bozant at 9 a.m., with confessions at 9:45 a.m.

Reflections will follow, featuring speakers Bozant, Marilyn Quirk and Paulette Renaudin. The morning ends at 11:30 a.m. Free and open to the public.

Quieting rooms are available for young children.

Light refreshments will be served.

REVIVAL AT PILGRIM REST: Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church will hold a revival 6:30 p.m. nightly from March 8-11 at 20116 La. 1081, in Covington.

The theme will be ‘Revive This Nation’ and will be presented by the Rev. Jonathan Beames.

For information, call (985) 893-1242.

6G F Thursday, February 19, 2015 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

community

schools

ASL course planned in Mandeville

BRIEFS STAFF REPORTS

Advocate staff report

Women, law subject of program Lawyers Christine Lozes and Cindy Petry will provide basic information about Louisiana law with respect to women during a free program from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 19, at Mandeville City Hall, 3101 E. Causeway Approach, Mandeville.

The event is free and open to the public; no advance reservations are required.

The presentation is sponsored by the American Association of University Women.

Lozes has practiced law for 35 years and has been board certified in family law for 20 years. Her law practice is in Covington.

She graduated from St. Scholastica Academy and earned her bachelor’s and law degrees from LSU. She is married with two children.

Petry also is a lawyer practicing in Covington. She earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting and her law degree from LSU. The bulk of her practice is family law, but she also has handled criminal law cases, as well as personal injury and successions.

She serves on the board of the Covington Food Bank and is a former president of the Junior League of Covington.

The Thursday meeting is an opportunity to learn how Louisiana’s laws affect women and a chance to ask general questions on topics such as marriage and divorce, child custody and inheritance laws.

For information about the CovingtonMandeville branch of AAUW, contact Eileen deHaro at (985) 624-9553. The group’s website is covmande-la.aauw.net.

Rotary collects shoes for kids The Rotary Club of Slidell is collecting new shoes for distribution to vulnerable children and orphans worldwide.

The local effort is part of Shoes for Orphan Souls, a project of Buckner International, a global Christian ministry. Since 1999, Buckner has distributed more than 2.5 million pairs of new shoes to children in 74 countries.

Last year, Rotary International District 6840, made up of Louisiana and Mississippi chapters, collected 1,494 pairs of shoes and 1,390 pairs of socks for distribution.

Sneakers and athletic shoes are best. The greatest need is for sizes youth 1 through adult 7. Donations can be dropped off at First Pentecostal Church, 388 Robert Blvd., Slidell, (985) 643-8760; the Edward Jones office at 2170 U.S. 190 W., Suite 135, Slidell, (985) 781-7683; or the Dammon Engineering office, 554 Old Spanish Trail, Slidell, (985) 649-5832.

A six-week introductory course in American Sign Language will begin March 26 at the St. Tammany Center of Southeastern Louisiana University, 21454 Koop Drive, Mandeville.

The instructor, Andrea M. Stermin, will cover the basics of conversation, culture and history of the deaf community, and the language used by many deaf and hard-of-hearing people.

The class will meet from 6 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Thursdays from March 26 through May 7.

The cost is $80.

Kiwanis of Greater Covington awards college scholarships Photo provided by Kathleen DesHotel

An antique table had been painted with a hibiscus by Kathleen DesHotel to raffle off to pay the cost of veterinary care for an injured stray dog and her puppy.

Painted table to be auctioned to pay for stray dog’s vet bills

auctioned to help pay the dog’s vet bill and to help the group of rescuers give the homeless animals a new life in a Susan Schmidt spotted a dog living new home.

“Proceeds from this raffle will go on the streets of Olde Mandeville. She began feeding it and noticed it was to her vet bills, which are currently pregnant. Not long after, she saw the well over $1,000 and will probably dog get hit by a car, and she and her reach $2,000. We face a great deal of husband “scooped her out of the street rehabilitation as her leg was badly mangled. We are in a fight to keep and rushed her to the vet.”

The vet at Riverside Veterinary from amputating it,” Schmidt said.

Tickets are $5 each. The winning saved the dog’s life, and a group of friends she calls an animal ‘rescue ticket will be pulled on May 9, the Saturday before Mother’s Day. Anyarmy’ found one of her puppies.

A one-of-a-kind piece of artwork one interested in buying a ticket can painted by Kathleen DesHotel will be call (985) 249-9051 or email

Advocate staff report

Photo provided by St. Tammany Parish Government

At the recent dedication of the Dr. T.J. Smith Sr. Expressway are Smith’s widow and children with Parish President Pat Brister. From left, are Elvin R. Smith, Brister, Sarita S. Young, Smith’s widow Luecreacy H. Smith, Parish Councilman T.J. Smith Jr., Glynnis S. Moreland, Kenya Smith and Dwight A. Smith.

Dr.T.J.Smith Sr.Expressway memorializes civil rights leader Advocate staff report Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish president, along with dignitaries and special guests, cut the ribbon on the newly opened Dr. T.J. Smith Sr. Expressway that connects the communities of Slidell and Pearl River from Airport Road to US 11.

The road is named after T.J. Smith Sr., a civil rights activist, educator and pastor who served as

president of the first St. Tammany Parish NAACP and worked alongside Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall. He is memorialized in state and federal case law in the Thomas J. Smith v. St. Tammany School Board et al. that desegregated the St. Tammany public school system. He died in 2010.

His son, T.J. Smith Jr. is parish councilman for part of the area the road runs through. He said the road

is named for “an individual who made a significant impact in St. Tammany Parish for all people.”

“I would like to congratulate T.J. Smith Jr., and his entire family on this momentous occasion that will memorialize their father, Dr. T.J. Smith Sr,” Brister said.

The project started in July 2013, and was finished on schedule at a cost of $15,086,749.60. The road is open to traffic.

NEIGHBORHOOD BRIEFS PROJECT PROM EVENT: High schools looking for the perfect dress for prom and accessories are invited to participate in the Junior League of Greater Covington’s Project Prom.

The annual event will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Junior League’s Dogwood Cottage, 529 North Columbia St. in Covington.

During Project Prom, each girl will be able to select and walk away with the prom dress of their dreams, at no expense to them. Generous donors also offer tailoring, manicures and there will be door prizes and other surprises.

According to Patti Oppenheim, President Elect 2014-15, their goal Feb. 28 is that “our racks are bare at the end of the event.” For information, contact Lauren Menier at (504) 427-3663.

GO RED LUNCHEON: The Think Red Dress-Red Tie Luncheon will be held Wednesday, Feb. 25 at the Northshore Harbor Center, 1000 Harbor Center Blvd.

The guest speakers will be Dr. Anthony Morales, a Slidell cardiologist and Dr. Devan Szczepanski, CMO of the LA Medical Group.

Doors open at 10:30 a.m. with free health screenings and information tables. Lunch and presentations begins at noon.

Sponsored by the East St. Tam-

Photo provided by Kiwanis of Greater Covington

Kiwanis of Greater Covington presented scholarship checks to Lauren Biggers and Katie Gagliano during its January meeting. From left are Irvin Breaux, Biggers, Gagliano and Tom Scheib. Biggers is attending McNeese State University in Lake Charles, and Gagliano is attending LSU in Baton Rouge.

Photo provided by SLU Public Information

Bras collected for Safe Harbor Roller derby leagues from across Louisiana, including Northshore Roller Derby of Mandeville, are joining forces this February for Mardi Bras, a drive to collect supplies for shelters for homeless and battered women across the state. Northshore Roller Derby has chosen Safe Harbor as its designated charity for this event.

Items requested include tampons, pads, panty liners, razors, hair brushes, multipacks of underwear in various sizes, bras in various sizes, multipacks of socks, flushable wipes, women’s deodorant and body wash, among others. Only new items will be accepted.

Collection sites are Brown & Mary LLC, 4021 Desoto St., Mandeville, (985) 626-9990; and Pilates Bodies, 711 E. Boston St., Covington.

For information on Louisiana Derby Mardi Bras, contact Bella Lunatic, of Northshore Roller Derby, at info@northshoreroller derby.com and follow “Louisiana Derby Presents Mardi Bras 2015” on Facebook.

A resident of Slidell, Stermin has been interpreting since 2004. She received her associate’s degree in interpreting from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and has been working for Sorenson Communications Video Relay Service since June 2010. She has experience in a variety of situations within her community, interpreting work ranging from education to medicine.

For information or to enroll, visit www.southeastern.edu/ noncredit. Information also is available by calling the SLU office of noncredit programs at (985) 549-2301.

many Chamber of Commerce and the Emerging Young Professionals, tickets are $29 and reservations are required. To register, visit www.estchamber.com or email info@estchamber.com.

HOME RULE CHARTER COMMITTEE: The St. Tammany Parish Home Rule Charter Committee will meet 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 input. To submit suggestions electronically, visit www.stpgov.org/ speakup. To review the Home Rule Charter online or access a printable version, visit www. stpgov.org/home-rule-charter.

Upcoming meetings are Monday, Feb. 23, and Monday, March 2.

CORONER SPEAKS TO BAYOU LACOMBE GROUP: The Bayou Lacombe Republican Women will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 24th at the Lacombe United Methodist Church, 27577 St. Joseph Street in Lacombe. Dr. Charles Preston the St. Tammany Parish Coroner will be speaking at the 1 p.m. meeting. Guest are welcomed. For information call Dale Neale at (985) 707-3885.

VEGETABLE GARDENING: Master gardener Jerry Ballanco

will speak about which spring and summer vegetables are the most productive, exhibit top quality and provide cooking versatility in a program to be presented at the Slidell and Folsom branches of the St. Tammany Parish Library.

He owns Ballanco Farms in Folsom, where he grows and sells heirloom seedlings and vegetables.

The Slidell presentation will be from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 24, at the Slidell branch, 555 Robert Blvd. The Folsom presentation will be from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25, at the Folsom branch, 82393 Railroad Ave. The events are free and open to the public, but seating space is limited to adults. Registration is recommended by calling the Slidell branch at (985) 646-6470 or the Folsom branch at (985) 796-9728, or registering online at register.stpl.us/ evanced/lib/eventcalendar.asp.

SLIDELL REPUBLICAN WOMEN: Bill Davis, the CEO of Slidell Memorial Hospital, will be the guest speaker when the Slidell Republican Women’s Club meets at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, at Pinewood Country Club, 405 Country Club Blvd., Slidell.

Davis will discuss the Affordable Care Act, health care issues going before the state Legislature and the effects of

the economy on local health care and hospitals.

The deadline for reservations is Tuesday, Feb. 24. The cost is $18. To make a reservation, email Betty Hooper at bettysuew@bellsouth.net. For information about joining the club, email Wanda Ricau at ricau@bellsouth.net.

GIRLS’ HEALTH: Junior and senior high school girls will learn about depression, stress, peer pressure and healthful lifestyles during “A Day for Girls’ Health” from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Slidell Memorial Hospital Regional Cancer Center, 1120 Robert Blvd., Slidell. The event is cosponsored by Slidell Memorial Hospital and Junior Auxiliary of Slidell. Giveaways, beauty tips, hair and makeup, dancing and a fashion show are highlights. To register, call (985) 280-2657 or visit SlidellMemorial.org.

PRIDE GARAGE SALE: The PRIDE Troupe hold a fundraising garage sale from 7 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 7 at St. Timothy UMC gym, 335 Asbury Drive in Mandeville. The funds will be used to attend a leadership program at Walt Disney World, Disney Leadership Strategies, on March 29.

For information, call PRIDE’s Sharon Ratliff at (985) 7277710.

The first four participants in the Northshore Technical Community College Practical Nursing Connection, a partnership with Southeastern Louisiana University School of Nursing, talk to their dean, Michele Lyons, center. Pictured, from left, are Jennifer Cockerham, Robin Smith Muse, Joyce Vargas and Jackie Lambert.

COLLEGE BRIEFS ACCELERATED NURSING PROGRAM: Jackie Lambert, of Mandeville, is one of four students in the first cohort of the Practical Nursing Connection program at Northshore Technical Community College.

The practical nursing students completed an accelerated program located on the campus of Southeastern Louisiana University and are planning to continue their studies next year at Southeastern Louisiana University to gain their registered nurse status.

The Practical Nursing Connection is the latest addition to the Connect to Success program sponsored jointly by NTCC and Southeastern. The original partnership was initiated two years ago by NTCC and the university to assist students who had not qualified to enter the university and prepare for further studies.

“These are individuals who want to enter the nursing profession, but were not accepted to Southeastern’s nursing programs for a variety of reasons,” explained Michele Lyons, dean of Health Sciences and Nursing at NTCC. “These partnerships were developed to meet the needs of our students.”

The four students — Robin Smith-Muse, of Montpelier; Jackie Lambert, of Mandeville;

Joyce Vargas, of Springfield; and Jennifer Cockerham, of Watson — spent the past year attending NTCC classes on the Southeastern campus and are earning an associate of general studies degree with a concentration in practical nursing.

Connect to Success currently has approximately 450 students enrolled in various programs to prepare them for university studies.

BEE RESEARCH: An evolutionary ecologist at Southeastern Louisiana University has been awarded a two-year grant to compare and survey bee communities in conservation habitats.

The $103,448 grant by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries was awarded to associate professor of biological sciences Janice Bossart, who is performing a systematic survey of the native bee fauna in southeast Louisiana. The grant funds are also allowing Bossart to include Eric Van Gorder, a graduate student from Fuquay Varina, North Carolina, as well as several undergraduates in her work.

“These surveys will generate data on the distribution and abundance of various species with a primary aim towards identifying rare, habitat-restricted and/or declining species,” Bossart said.

Photo provided by SLU Public Information

Southeastern Louisiana University biologist Janice Bossart and biology graduate assistant Eric Van Gorder, of Fuquay Varina, North Carolina, study a bee they caught at one of the protected habitat sites they survey. Bossart was awarded a $103,448 grant from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to compare and survey native bee communities in conservation habitats.

The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, February 19, 2015 F 7G

schools Mandeville girls take district soccer championship

The girls soccer team at Fontainebleau Junior High School in Mandeville won the 2015 district championship with a 10-1 (7-1) record. In the front row, from left, are Isabella Fenzi, Elizabeth Scallon and Whitney Duncan.

Behind them are Macy Owens, Gabby Bird, Emma Ebert, Emily Audsley, Lanie Heffker, Hannah Raymer, Charlotte Peachey, Olivia Wehrman, Alivia Anglada, Charlie Chehardy, Grace Saizan, Ella Rocha, Kelly Bickers, Corinne Zemmer, Kara Lewis and Brenna Dinapolis. The girls are coached by Scott Cammack and Lonna Winslow.

Photo provided by Abita Springs Elementary School

Rebecca Molina, of Abita Springs Elementary School, is the elementary school teacher of the year for the Louisiana Department of Veterans of Foreign Wars. She is seen with VFW District 2 Commander Bobby Lovergne.

SCHOOL BRIEFS VFW TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Rebecca Molina, who teaches gifted students at Abita Springs Elementary School, has been honored by the Louisiana Department of Veterans of Foreign Wars as its elementary school teacher of the year. She received the award Jan. 31 at the VFW state conference in Alexandria.

Nominated by Abita Springs Elementary Principal Rebecca Stogner, Molina was recognized by the local Homer Williams VFW Post before winning at the district and state levels.

Molina has been teaching in Abita Springs for the past five years of her 25-year career. Her third-grade students create and perform weekly character-education skits for schoolwide broadcast. Many of her students at Abita Elementary and Abita Middle schools have won local, parish and state honors in contests sponsored

by Northshore Reading Council, PTA Reflections, Newspapers in Education and Abita Friends of the Park. A frequent volunteer at community events, Molina also serves on the New Orleans Museum of Art’s Educator Advisory Board, and on the Standards Committee of the American Canoe Association’s Safety Education and Instruction Council.

NEW WRITERS LITERARY FESTIVAL: The New Orleans New Writers Literary Festival will be from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. March 7 at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, 2800 Chartres St., in New Orleans.

The festival is a project of Lusher Charter High School and NOCCA and is coordinated by Brad Richard, of, Lusher and Lara Naughton, of NOCCA. LitFest offers high school students a festival of master classes with professional writers and artists, readings and performances, seminars, food and sharing of work and ideas.

Headlining the Saturday festival will be Slam Team New Orleans, which will perform for all festival attendees and participate in a Q&A moderated by student writers. After the master class, Slam Team New Orleans also will meet with a small group of students in a workshop setting.

Other workshop sessions include screenwriting with Henry Griffin; fiction with Maurice Ruffin; poetry with Anne Marie Rooney; book making with Yuka Petz; songwriting with Mike Rihner; and creative nonfiction with Anya Groner. In addition, there will be an open mic reading by members of the local high school literary scene.

The Saturday festival is open to high school age students and requires preregistration. Interested eighth-graders should contact Lara Naughton at lnaughton@Nocca.com for approval to register. The nonrefundable registration fee is $20, payable online, and the registration deadline is March 1.

For information and to register, go to www.nocca.com/litfest.

ST. TAMMANY RIGHT TO LIFE ORATORY CONTEST: High school juniors and seniors parishwide are invited to compete for prizes in the annual St. Tammany Right to Life Oratory Contests.

Speeches, 5 to 7 minutes long, will be given March 14 at St. Luke Youth Center, 910 Cross Gates Blvd., in Slidell.

Topics include abortion, euthenasia, infanticide and embryonic stem cell research. Prizes are $200 for first place, $100 second place and $50 third place. For information, call Mary Powell at (985) 643-9547.

“BEAUTY AND THE BEAST”: Christ Episcopal School will present “Beauty and the Beast” at 7 p.m. March 20, 21, 27, and 28; and at 2 p.m. March 22 and 29 at 80 Christwood Blvd. in Covington. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for children and are available at cesdrama.ticketleap.com/beauty andthebeast.

The March 22 show will be the Princess Matinee in which guests are invited to come dressed as their favorite princess or prince and enjoy a reception, autographs and roses.

Photo provided by Fontainebleau Junior High School

Northlake Christian students receive VFW Voice of Democracy awards

American Legion Auxiliary treats educators

Photo provided by VFW Post 8720

Shown at the presentation of awards by the Homer Williams VFW Post 8720 at Northlake Christian School are, front from left, Rebecca Samuel, Voice of Democracy participant; Philip Nicaud, third-place winner in the Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest; Zaidmara Diaz, VOD participant; Anna Jones, second-place winner in VOD contest; middle row, Warren Davie, VOD participant; Caston Bolton, third-place winner in the Americanism Essay Contest; Lauren Ellison, third-place winner in VOD contest; and back, VFW Homer Williams Post 8720 Commander Mike Peats, Secondary School Principal Michele Margavio, Elementary School Principal Missie Arnold; Sara Beth Seal, VOD participant; Jenni Vega, assistant principal (secondary school); Kay Peats, Americanism chairwoman, and Beth Laderer, Patriots Pen Essay chairwoman.

Photo provided by ALA

Ollie McGillivary, right, of the American Legion Auxiliary, donates doughnuts to Lesa Bodnar, principal of Folsom Elementary School, for National Education Week.

Slidell children hold sock drive for nursing home residents

The Champions Club at Florida Avenue Elementary School in Slidell held a sock drive for Heritage Manor of Slidell, bringing in more than 300 pairs of new socks for residents of the nursing home. From left are Rachael Gleason, Grant Bridges, Savannah Thomas, Nyla Gant, Zoey Boyd, Grace Capritto and Fernando Torres.

Photo provided by Florida Avenue Elementary School

Fontainebleau Junior High School chooses its student of the year

Photo provided by Fontainebleau Junior High School

Doris Igrec will represent Fontainebleau Junior High School in Mandeville as its student of the year. All of the eighth-graders who completed a portfolio and interview were treated to a pizza and ice cream party. In the front row, from left, are John Hansen, Christian Bobo, Dawson Nelson, Griffen Clements, Chris Le, Daniel Favrot, Conner McCormick, Justin Marcantel and Alfonso Alfonso. In the second row are Katie Weber, Madeline Hoffman, Macy Owens, Annie Xia, Doris Igrec, Natalie Raia, Sarah Induni, Chrissy Weber and Landyn Froberg. Standing are Hillary Bohm, Summer Seal, Morgan Newton, Raegan Cantrelle, Kylie Reed, Amanda Ross, Elizabeth Scallon, Whitney Duncan, Abigail Desposito, Angelle Martin, Cherie Mialaret, Mia Casabat and Ashtyn Morgan. Grace Brauner and Austin Ferrara also participated.

Bayou Lacombe Middle School honors January students of the month The January students of the month at Bayou Lacombe Middle School in Lacombe are, from left, Keeley Rouquette, Maya Musgrove, Christopher Collins, Ava Losch, Alonna McGrew, Abbygail Casnave, Alania Roberts and Brennan Edwards. In recognition of their good character and citizenship, they received a certificate, button, armband, pencil, candy bar and lunch with the principal.

Photo provided by Bayou Lacombe Middle School

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