The St. Tammany Advocate (12/25/14)

PLENTY TO GO AROUND

Kiwanis hold annual Pancake Breakfast with Santa 5G

THE ST.TAMMANY

ADVOCATE

COVINGTON • FOLSOM • LACOMBE • MADISONVILLE • MANDEVILLE • SLIDELL

1G

THURSDAY DECEMBER 25, 2014 H

THENEWORLEANSADVOCATE.COM

Registration open for Abbey Youth Fest

BY KAREN BAKER

Special to The Advocate

Photo provided

Buddy conducts an investigation with his handler at the scene of a fire.

Buddy, N.Y. firefighter, retires from service It’ll be a special Christmas for one dog.

The Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal announced the retirement of Buddy last week, citing agerelated illness.

Maybe you think I’m writing about animals again.

But really, I’m writing about a first responder — the fourlegged kind.

Buddy is entering his “golden years” as a retired State Fire Mar- TAMMANY TIMES shal detector SHARON dog, possibly EDWARDS the longestserving K9 in Louisiana, having begun his tour of duty on Nov. 13, 2002.

“In his many years of service to Louisiana, K9 ‘Buddy’ has served all areas of the state,” said Deputy Chief Brant Thompson, of the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal.

How Buddy came to Louisiana is what makes him so special. The black Labrador Retriever was a gift to Louisiana by the city of New York in appreciation for two water-pumping firetrucks that Louisiana built and donated to New York in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.

Prior to his service in Louisiana, Buddy and his handler, Capt. Richard Abbott, underwent four months of intensive training in New York. After completing their training, Abbott and Buddy conducted more than 250 searches in New York, and they remain listed as a fire investigation team in that state. He has the distinction of being the only New Yorktrained K9 that serves in a different state.

Remember the many can shakes conducted by firefighters in front of groceries and on the street corners after 9/11? The funds were used to build a firetruck to New York City’s specifications, that would replace fire equipment lost by the New York firefighters. It was delivered for service in December 2001.

Following Hurricane Katrina, New York firefighters reciprocated and came down here, bringing the Spirit of Louisiana with them to replace one of the many firetrucks lost in the storm. It was used by the city of New Orleans until 2010. Then in 2012, it was brought back to New York to assist after Hurricane Sandy.

Buddy, like the firetrucks, symbolizes the ongoing bond of friendship between the people of Louisiana and New York’s first responders.

Since coming into service äSee TIMES, page 2G

The hour has come to register for the 2015 Abbey Youth Fest.

The annual gathering of young Catholics will take place March 21 at St. Joseph Abbey and Seminary College near Covington.

Early registration will continue through Jan. 14.

The theme for the 2015 version of AYF is “The Hour Has Come,” said Kit Baumann, director of events for St. Joseph Abbey and Seminary College.

She said she is excited about the

lineup, which includes Catholic singer Jackie Francois Angel; the Rev. Mike Schmitz, director of youth and young adult ministry for the Diocese of Duluth; Mike Mangione and the Union; and singer Paul Kim. “We also just got word that Sister Fatima Aphiri, OLS, from Lafayette, will be joining us,” Baumann said. “That will be nice for her to share her vocation story.” Aphiri will share emcee duties with seminarian Joseph Bass.

“They are both dynamic speakers,” Baumann said, and

should engage the crowd of teenage youths.

Abbey Youth Fest gathers thousands of youth from eighth through 12th grade to the spacious grounds of the abbey.

The day features music, food, speakers, tours of the abbey church and more. Last spring brought a record crowd of 4,800 teens, Baumann said, and she expects just as many in 2015.

“By the grace of God, it goes well and enormous graces flow from it,” she said.

Sharon Carraway, director of communications for the ab-

bey, said she sees something amazing happen at Abbey Youth Fest. “To have that many young people together focused on Christ and vocations, to me, that’s all-encompassing, positive peer pressure.

“Talking about vocations and the call from God opens up a whole new world you won’t hear about on Facebook or Twitter,” she said. “To be with thousands of young people is very encouraging. For them to see each other there shows that they are not the exception.”

The cost is $30 per person and

Southern Hotel immersed in art and history

BY CANDLELIGHT

Advocate staff photos by REBECCA RATLIFF

The Otis Museum hosted Candlelight Christmas Tours on Dec. 13 at Fairview State Park in Madisonville.

Advocate staff report

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includes a water bottle and Tshirt. Registration will continue Jan. 15 through March 4 at $30 a person with a T-shirt but no water bottle. Registration also will be available on-site, but it will not include the T-shirt or water bottle Something new to note this year is a tent policy: Organizers say registrants will have to register their 10-by-10-foot pop-up tents. The cost is $10, with limited availability for space.

Visit abbeyyouthfest.com/ registration for information and to register.

airview-Riverside State Park was the setting for a recent Candlelight Christmas Tour of the Otis House Museum. The historic home was decorated to represent five decades of Christmas celebrations. Gift-giving customs and toys from the different eras were presented.

The Madisonville Garden Club displayed fresh flowers, fruit and

greenery customary of theme periods. Wassil and cookies were served in the Otis House kitchen.

Admission to the museum is included in park admission. Fairview-Riverside is a 99-acre state park set along the banks of the Tchefuncte River. Gates are open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday at 119 Fairview Drive, 2 miles east of Madisonville. For information, call (985) 845-3318 or email fairview@crt.la.gov.

ABOVE: Karl Harrell strums his guitar at the Otis House Museum. RIGHT: Lori Delouise explains the history of the Victorian Christmas tree.

The Southern Hotel will ring in the new year with the 1940s swing band Jimmy Maxwell Orchestra, with hors d’oeuvres and desserts served from the hotel’s restaurant, Oxlot 9, and prepared by the acclaimed chef Jeffery Hansell.

Located on Boston Street in the heart of downtown Covington, the Southern Hotel is once again a prestigious venue. It first opened in 1905, IN boasting the modern comforts PROFILE of hot water and DEBORAH BURST electric lights, and today shares both the history and the artistic culture of Covington.

By 1912, it was transformed into a sanatorium/resort for people with respiratory illnesses, and it has served many functions since then, including 20 years as part of the St. Tammany Parish courthouse.

When the new Justice Center was built in 2003, the building was shuttered and went on the auction block.

In 2011, it was purchased by developers Lisa Condrey Ward; her husband, Joseph Ward; and her brother Ricky Condrey and his wife, Gayle.

The hotel began renovations in 2012 and opened in June 2014.

Lisa Condrey Ward, a lawyer and dedicated preservationist, has taken great care to preserve the building’s historic character, with help from Covington’s artistic community.

The city’s history can be seen along murals in the Cypress Bar and historic photographs lining the hallways and guest corridors.

“I knew immediately that I would showcase the amazing talent we have here in the area, and in doing so, people äSee IN PROFILE, page 2G

Tennis tourney aids STARC, Children’s Wish It is always a pleasure to visit with people who organize charity events. Their smiles are contagious because they truly care about what they’re doing. They care about a cause. They care about people.

They care about making a difference.

Those smiles were everywhere at Cross Gates Athletic Club on Dec. 7 during the finals of the 15th annual Children’s Wish/STARC Benefit Tennis Tournament. Tourna-

ment founders Pam Brandner and Adele Lassus radiate an interest in helping and fervor for the groups they graciously assist.

REC & And all of this LEISURE after they put ANDREW together nearly CANULETTE four sleepless days of practically nonstop tennis action — talk about

dedication!

“We’ve never not considered doing this tournament since it started,” Brandner said.

That sort of thinking is one reason this is one of the biggest charity tennis events on the north shore (and there are quite a few, truth be told). This year’s event involved approximately 120 players in various doubles brackets (open, A, B and C levels). There also was a consolation bracket, a parade of prizes for the play-

ers, a grand buffet, snacks and drinks throughout the four-day event, and much more.

It was an “ace” of an event that again raised thousands of dollars for two very worthy causes. It’s been that way since the dynamic duo of Brandner and Lassus began the tournament 15 years ago. They, of course, have been assisted by a short list of valuable volunteers, not to mention a regular äSee REC & LEISURE, page 2G

Advocate photo

Lisa Condrey Ward, one of the Southern Hotel’s owners, stands next to the fireplace in the lobby.

2G F Thursday, December 25, 2014 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

REC & LEISURE Continued from page 1G

Photo provided by the Office of State Fire Marshal

Buddy and handler Richard Abbott stand beside the ‘Spirit of Louisiana,’ one of two trucks donated by Louisiana to New York City in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.

TIMES

Continued from page 1G in Louisiana, Buddy has faithfully prowled through literally hundreds of fire scenes. Accelerant detection K9s are used on fire scenes to assist investigators in determining whether an accelerant was used to facilitate the fire. Because of their very sensitive noses, dogs are capable of detecting trace amounts of ignitable substances, thus allowing investigators to pinpoint samples that are then submitted for laboratory analysis.

Such dogs significantly reduce the amount of time and effort

required to locate these substances on fire scenes, resulting in additional savings to Louisiana taxpayers, according to information from the state fire marshal.

When not working, Buddy and his handler conducted demonstrations for schoolchildren, as well as for numerous schools, civic groups and associations throughout the state and before heads of state.

Buddy received annual training and certifications through the Dallas Fire Department Training Center, sponsored by the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office, and is certified by the North American Police Work

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

highest bidder. Complete descriptions of the auction items are included in the bid book available from the circulation desk at the Slidell Branch Library or by emailing fsl70458@yahoo.com, but bids must be placed in person. Auction proceeds will support the Slidell, Pearl River, and Lacombe branch libraries.

YOUTH SERVICE BUREAU: Chef Soirée 2015, a fundraiser for the Youth Service Bureau, will feature the raffle of a 2015 Ford

Mustang donated by Banner Ford.

The event will take place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. March 15 at Bogue Falaya Park in Covington.

Raffle tickets are $25 each or five for $100. Only 2,500 tickets for the Ford Mustang will be sold. The drawing will be at 8 p.m. at Chef Soirée. The winner does not need to be present to win. To purchase raffle tickets, call the Youth Service Bureau at (985) 893-2570.

Dog Association and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Border Patrol.

“Of course, we’re saddened to see Buddy leave us,” said State Fire Marshal H. “Butch” Browning. “But considering the number of years and the manner in which he has served the people of Louisiana, I believe he needs now to just enjoy the retirement he has earned and so richly deserves.”

Buddy will remain in the care of Abbott for the remainder of his life.

group of 30 or so sponsors who are more than willing to assist the community cause.

“People like Henry and Kim Calamari, Patty Dupuy, Damon Romero, Pat Urbano, Linda Garcia. They show up.

We don’t even ask anymore (for help),” Brandner said.

“They just show up and do it.

It’s incredible. We do a lot of the legwork in the year, but when something is needed, they are here. And our great group of sponsors, we couldn’t do it without them.

Many of them have been with us since the beginning.”

It’s that same kind of enthusiasm the entire group shares when they talk about the people they help each year.

STARC has an ongoing need for assistance, as does the St. Tammany-based Children’s Wish endowment.

On Dec. 6, tournament officials were able to provide 4-year-old Slidell resident Cole Hatheway a trip to Walt Disney World via Children’s Wish. Cole has supraventricular tachycardia, which is a life-threatening condition that causes the heart to beat much faster than it should.

But thanks to the generous donors and players supporting the tournament, Cole and his parents, Todd and Kerilynn, will fly to Orlando during Christmas break for an adventure that will get their minds off the everyday and perhaps give them hope that good things will continue to happen for them.

Photo by ANDREW CANULETTE

The Children’s Wish/STARC Benefit Tennis Tournament was held Dec. 4-7 at Cross Gates Athletic Club in Slidell. From left are volunteers Kim Calamari and Patty Dupuy, Cross Gates tennis director Damon Romero and tournament founders Pam Brandner and Adele Lassus.

“That’s the thing that makes it so special for us,” Lassus said. “To be able to help is just a magnificent feeling.”

While all the “feel good” was taking place, some great tennis action was taking place on the Cross Gates courts. Winners were: Men’s Open: First, Jody Scharfenstein/ Ryan Seaton; second, Josh Brandner/ Ernie Anderson; third, Damon Romero/ Noah Nevarez.

Women’s Open: First, Pan Brandner/ Kim Calamari; second, Mary Ann Strickland/ Terri Lamperez; third, Adele Lassus/ Sherri White.

Men’s A: First, Danny Brennan/ Brian Harrison; second, James Graham/ Jim Pear; consolation, Butch Songy/ Hayden Songy.

Women’s A: First, Kelly Full-

er/ Michelle Savoy; second, Sherri White/ Gina Chauvin Brocato.

Men’s B: First, Mike Wellman/ C.O. Pearson; second, Henry J. Calamari/ Steve Wicks.

Women’s B: First, Monique Thornton/ Kathleen Wills; second, Mary Christopher/ Mary Riehlmann; consolation, Pam Puckett/ Elaine Motte.

Men’s C: First, Tommy Bailey/ Evan Bailey; second, Adam Lassus/ Zack Corbin; consolation, Matthew Rodehorst/ Michael Rodehorst.

Women’s C: First, Joanie Cason/ Kathy Carter; second, Stephanie Songy/Lisa Isabelle.

Congratulations to the fine tournament team for making everyone’s lives a bit brighter — not only during the holiday season, but every day of the year.

The Bayou Paddle Company will provide water safety with standing paddlers.

Cost is $30 to participate for Franco’s members and $35 for nonmembers. There is an additional $5 charge to sign up on race day. Cost includes a postrace meal provided by Bosco’s Italian Cafe and a T-shirt.

No swim aids or fins are allowed to qualify for the shirt.

There are no refunds, but donations will be accepted whether you participate in the event or not. Proceeds will benefit the Donnie Jarrell Foundation, which promotes awareness of Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

For more information, call (985) 792-0247.

N AT U R E C E N T E R : T h e Northlake Nature Center, at 23135 U.S. 190 just east of Mandeville, plans a Breakfast of Champions and Back Trails Hike at 8 a.m. Dec. 31.

Enjoy coffee or juice and a light breakfast after you hike the invigorating back trails of the NNC. Reservations are required.

Cost is $5 for nonmembers and free for NNC members.

Call (985) 626-1238 or email rue@northlakenature.org.

ABITA YOUTH SPORTS: St. Tammany Parish Recreation District No. 11 in Abita Springs is holding registration for its annual basketball and soccer leagues. Players ages 11 to 16

are eligible to play hoops in this round of competition.

Soccer players ages 4 to 13 also can sign up for games in that sport.

Registration will continue through Dec. 29 at Charlie Finn Memorial Park, 22516 La. 36, Abita Springs. Signups will be conducted from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on weekdays.

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

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

Cost is $75 per person if domiciled within the boundaries of the recreation district. Cost is $100 if the player lives outside the district. Fees include jersey, uniform shorts, insurance and a trophy.

A copy of each player’s birth certificate is needed to register.

Soccer players who played in the fall season can register for $35, as they already have team assignments and uniforms.

The district also actively seeks volunteer coaches. For information, call recreation district director Lisa Palisi at (985) 871-7555.

NEIGHBORHOOD BRIEFS SILENT BOOK AUCTION: The deadline for bidding on Civil War books being auctioned off by the Friends of the Slidell Library is 6 p.m. Tuesday.

More than 60 books related to the Civil War are included in this silent auction and are on view inside the Slidell Branch Library, 555 Robert Blvd.

Winning bidders will be notified by phone or email and must pick up items within seven days or item will default to the next-

IN PROFILE

Continued from page 1G would be exposed to artists that perhaps they would not otherwise know about,” Condrey Ward said, adding that she needs more wall space. “I picked each piece based on an emotional reaction to it and rarely had an idea of where a piece would go.”

The group purchased the building in less than a week from start to finish.

“It was amazing when we were in front of the building putting a ‘sold’ sign out and everyone passing started honking and waving and were all so excited,” Condrey Ward said.

A country girl, Condrey Ward was born and raised in Lake Providence. Her father was a cotton farmer, and her mother and three siblings still live in the area.

“I loved water skiing on the lake and the beauty of the cotton fields of the delta,” Condrey Ward recalled. “Lake Providence is an old town and, like Covington, has people whose families have long histories in the area.”

She believes both her father and mother instilled her love for historic buildings and development.

“My dad enjoyed various building projects, and I think I got my interest in development from him,” she said. “My mom took me to the Natchez Pilgrimage every spring, and I grew up appreciating historic architecture, old gardens and imagining what it must have been like to have lived in those wonderful old homes over the years.”

Condrey Ward received her degree from Tulane Law School and stayed in New Orleans after graduation. In 1999, she and her family moved to Covington, and they now live in an early 20th-century home on the Little Bogue Falaya River.

She has renovated seven historic buildings, including moving an 1898 Queen Anne. Her first renovation was conducted between attending LSU and law school. It was a building in Lake Providence that she turned into a bed-and-breakfast for a brief time.

In decorating the hotel, she attended antique fairs. She is particularly fond of the green velvet chairs in the library and the

Advocate photo

building’s courthouse tenure.

“I really love the building process, love to see a space framed up,” she said while standing next to the fireplace looking out at the courtyard.

“I’m very good at multitasking and also have a supportive husband and wonderful staff in both the hotel and the law office.”

The hotel’s latest events include Yoga in the Courtyard and its New Year’s Eve Party beginning at 9:30 p.m. A special surprise will take place in the courtyard at midnight.

For information, call (844) 866-1907, or visit southern hotel.com or facebook.com/ southernhotel.

The Southern Hotel’s New Year’s Eve party kicks off at 9:30 p.m. and includes a sur- Deborah Burst writes about prise at midnight. people behind the scenes of organizations and events in statue in the lobby. She included St. Tammany Parish. To reach a couple of benches that were her, email deborahburst@ in the courtrooms during the gmail.com.

SPORTS BRIEFS King Cake 5K

Christ Episcopal School’s Athletic Booster Club will host its first annual 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 more information, email Greg Carnovale at gcarnovale@christepiscopal. orgorJaneSlattenatjaneslatten @gmail.com.

Other events

YMCA HOOPS: The West St. Tammany YMCA will hold youth basketball registration for boys and girls ages 3 to 7 from Jan. 24-27.

Registrations will be held at the WST YMCA, 71256 Francis Road, near Covington.

Call (985) 893-9622 for more information.

DIP & DASH: The Ice Man Dip & Dash once again will take place at 11 a.m. Jan. 1 in Mandeville and Madisonville. The event includes participants running 4 miles from Franco’s Athletic Club to the Tchefuncte River and back.

No minors or pets are allowed during the swim portion, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Send news of sports and recreation activities to sttammany@theadvocate. com.

NOTICE TO ALL RESIDENTS OF UNINCORPORATED JEFFERSON PARISH & THE TOWN OF JEAN LAFITTE

NO GARBAGE COLLECTION ON THURSDAY, NEW YEAR’S DAY If you are scheduled to have garbage picked up on

THURSDAY, JANUARY 1ST, your garbage will not be picked up until

MONDAY, JANUARY 5TH (NEXT SCHEDULED COLLECTION DAY)

PLEASE NOTE: THERE WILL BE NO MAKE-UP COLLECTIONS FOR THE MISSED HOLIDAY. ALL CITIZEN DROP-OFF SITES & THE JEFFERSON PARISH LANDFILL WILL BE CLOSED NEW YEAR’S DAY AND WILL RE-OPEN FRIDAY, JANUARY 2ND

Please call 1-877-747-4374 to accommodate requests for efficient removal of large bulky waste and to report missed pick-up.

The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, December 25, 2014 F 3G

Advocate photos by MISSIE NOEL

Susan Shaffette, Linda Campbell and Liz Delle.

Joy Derise and Gina Sutton at the Women of Infinite Possibilities Holiday Luncheon.

Dian Lusher, Pemmie Sheasby and Colleen Toye.

Leslie McGoey, Jinx Vidrine and Geri Cavaretta at the WIP Lakehouse event.

Jaynell Lindner and Gail Anderson.

WIP party participants Rolanda Bostick, Barbara Dillon and Patricia Stout.

Holiday celebration, gumbo gathering WIP celebrates the holidays

The Women of Infinite Possibilities organization recently celebrated its annual Holiday Luncheon at the Lakehouse in Mandeville.

Guests dined on fresh red drum and paneed chicken breast with Lakehouse salads and gorTAMMANY geous desserts following a social SCENE hour at the beau- MISSIE NOEL tiful lakefront

restaurant. The ladies sipped refreshments and enjoyed signing up for new committees and purchasing raffle tickets while getting to know one another and meeting new friends.

President Pemmie Sheasby welcomed everyone to the event, noting that the organization “is happily touching the lives of more than 1,000 women in the area with service and sharing.” The group celebrated its five “legacy partners” at the event, including NAMI, the Covington Food Bank, the Hospice Foundation of the South, Keep Mandeville Beautiful and Hope House.

Women of Infinite Possibilities is a nonprofit organization founded in September 2009 by Jax Frey and Lorrie LaCroix and is dedicated to touching the lives of a thousand women in a powerful way by providing opportunities for women to build relationships, learn about and support community needs and explore the ideas and options of their own personal infinite possibilities and legacies.

In addition to monthly meetings, socials, networking opportunities and trips, the group hosts women’s retreats and workshops. For more information on WIP, visit its website at www.womenofwip. org.

Madisonville Chamber hosts gumbo gathering

The beautiful shores of the Tchefuncte River provided a wonderful backdrop for the Madisonville Chamber of Commerce’s fourth annual Gumbo Cook-Off in November.

Andy Crosby, of Mandeville, entertained many guests with his fiddle as they arrived to the venue in front of the town hall. More than 10 teams lined the banks of the river, many with their own themes and costumes, all vying to be named one of the best gumbo teams in the area.

For a small entrance fee or a donation of two canned goods per person, the public was invited to enjoy the best seafood gumbo and chicken and sausage gumbo made by local chefs and novice cooks. The categories for the cook-off included novice seafood; novice chicken and sausage; novice anything goes; restaurant seafood; restaurant chicken and sausage; and restaurant anything goes.

All proceeds from the event

allow the chamber to sponsor other events in town, and the food donations were collected for St. Anselm’s Church ministry.

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

Little Maddox Rochelle, of Covington.

Sgt. Ryan Mahne, Officer Shawn Woessner and Sgt. David Synakiewicz, of the Madisonville Police Department, take a moment to enjoy the delicious offerings at the cook-off.

Michelle Vanderbrook with Matthew, Kenneth and Tammy Morris, helping to collect can goods at the festival entrance.

Lina, Mollie, Adelin and Julienna Castille from Covington.

Entertaining the gumbo festival attendees with his beautiful music is Mandeville native Andy Crosby.

Debutante Miss Queen of St. Tammany Isabel Pelaez and Miss St. Tammany Parish Fair Queen Madison Pullen.

Judges for the annual Madisonville Gumbo Cook-Off included Pearl Rumore, Chris Cuevas, Sandra Scalise Juneau and Edna Tanya and Jason Leader.

Sommerhalder

CITY OF GRETNA GARBAGE COLLECTION NEW YEAR’S HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

Progressive Waste Solutions wishes all of our Gretna customers a happy & safe New Year.

Please call

1-877-747-4374

to accommodate requests for efficient removal of large bulky waste and to report missed pick-up.

NO GARBAGE OR RECYCLING COLLECTION ON THURSDAY, NEW YEAR’S DAY

Friday’s service will stay as is. If your sevice day is Thursday, please put your can out that night, and it will be picked up within 48 hours.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-877-747-4374

4G F Thursday, December 25, 2014 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

Small concerts, big sounds in Covington

Marcia Holmes’ ‘A Grand Oak’

Exhibit offers two visions of nature’s essence

At the opening of the St. Tammany Art Association’s exhibit “Nature’s Essence: Two Visions,” Marcia Holmes and Jim Seitz offered patrons the opportunity to be wrapped in clouds, embraced by a willow tree, balanced on a lily pad and dazzled by golden lights.

The styles of painting are not alike, but the subjects are in that they offer perceptions of natural surroundings within the indoors. A peaceful environment fills the area and invites viewers to feel the loveliness that nature provides.

Holmes explained that every oil, pastel or mixed media in her work is connected. She spent an amazing time channeling the world of Claude Monet in his garden at Giverny, France. She found inspiration as she observed, listened and painted in early morning until tourists came, and then she returned in the evening after tourists left. “When the hustle and bustle subsided after hours, I could hear the frogs, birds and ducks return to their beautiful habitat. I was so moved that when I saw a willow tree, I could feel its limbs

as if they were wrapped around me in embrace.”

In plein air she painted “Monet’s Willow Reaching,” which spreads diagonally across the CULTURAL canvas with out- COLLAGE stretched limbs KATHLEEN DESHOTEL that are displayed via long brush strokes of faint greens, yellows and browns as they extend toward the water. Without knowing her insights, “Water’s Essence II” was enticing as an abstract.

Holmes explained that it was based in a connection to the willow’s reflection in the water.

Making this connection leads to a deeper understanding of lily pads, oak trees and their reflections in the water.

After years of creating his unconstrained gardens wherein flora joined in free-flowing colors, Monet said, “All my money goes into my garden.

I am in raptures.” Such was reflected in his paintings in the late 17th century and captured in Holmes’ modern joining of

Jim Seitz’s ‘Sea of Change’

Advocate photos by KATHLEEN DESHOTEL

The St. Tammany Art Center in Covington hosts the works of Jim Seitz and Marcia Holmes through Feb. 7 in the exhibit, Nature’s Essence: Two Visions. impressionism and abstract art.

Jim Seitz’s works are large and inviting. He slices out vast pieces of scenery, gives them depth and natural muted colors and layers his process to offer the feeling of a porthole to the water, the woods, even the sky. In technique he combines acrylic and metal leaf in a process that starts with an application of molding paste with a trowel, which renders texture for the painting.

Each of his works has a defined horizon line with gold or silver leaf that yields a warm or cool feel to the scene. Then, to create depth and to lure the eyes to linger in the landscape, he adds many layers of acrylic wash. Paint is strategically applied to nature’s subjects with an impasto technique that creates a sense of being inside the scene.

There is a certain feeling of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s transcendental philosophy of

a need for understanding of nature exhibited in his art. “I began as a detailed ink and watercolor artist, but I feel a greater sense of freedom in my current form,” he said. His paintings are soft and diffused, yet sculptural in layers and reflections of light.

Both artists are self-taught.

Holmes has traveled to France and Venice to feel the inspiration, and Seitz once lived in the Middle East and Singapore.

Although their styles and influences differ, they describe their works as complementary.

They are also thought-provoking and respectful of the natural environment.

On Jan. 31, Holmes will participate in a gallery talk that is free and open to the public.

The exhibit will be on display at STAA on 320 N. Columbia St. in Covington until Feb. 7.

For information call director Cindy Pulling at (985) 892-8650 or visit www.sttammanyartassociation.org.

Christmas tree burn demonstrates fire hazard Advocate staff report

Each year, fire departments in the U.S. respond to an average of 210 structure fires caused by Christmas trees, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Carefully decorating and maintaining Christmas trees can help make the holidays safer.

Members of the St. Tammany Fire Protection District 1 recently demonstrated those facts at a scheduled tree burn, where a real Christmas tree was set on fire to show the devastating effects to property as well as potential loss of life to occupants of a home.

Some Christmas tree fire safety tips include: n Make sure the tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights. n Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit. n Add water to the tree stand.

Be sure to add water daily. n As an added safety precaution, add a smoke detector in the room where the Christmas tree is located. n Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both. n Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of LED strands to connect. n Never use lit candles to decorate the tree. n Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

After Christmas, it is recommended: n Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles.

Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. n Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, one of every three Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems. On average, one of every 40 reported home structure Christmas tree fires results in a death. A heat source too close to the tree causes roughly one in every six Christmas tree fires.

More than half of home candle fires occur when they are placed too close to something that can burn. December is the peak time of the year for home candle fires.

For more information or to see the video of the tree burn, visit slidellfire.org or email Chad Duffaut, chief of fire prevention, at cduffaut@slidellfire. org.

If your idea of exploring the local music scene conjures up images of dark, smoky bars with loud garage bands, bad acoustics and uninterested fans, the upcoming concert series at the Center of Performing Arts may be a sight for sore eyes, or better yet, a sound for sore ears.

The Center of Performing Arts is kicking off the TAMMANY new year with a TRACKER new season. “The ABBY Friday Night DONALDSON Music Club” is a five-month concert series that combines legendary New Orleans bands and a small, private atmosphere.

“It’s more intimate, it’s more friendly and it’s more cozy,” said the Center of Performing Arts owner Robert Sturcken.

The concert series gives audience members a rare chance to get up close and personal with iconic New Orleans musicians and their music. The concerts are similar to living room concerts, where musicians perform for a small audience in a relaxed setting. The performers also take breaks to chat about their music and to mix and mingle with audience members.

“It’s a different kind of experience,” Sturcken explained. “(The bands) aren’t going to be cordoned off. We take down that wall so you feel like the band is sitting there with you.”

The rare concert style is a draw for music lovers as well as the big-name bands that will be performing this season. The season includes Luther Kent, The Mesmerizers, The Pfister Sisters, Tim Laughlin Trio, and John “Papa” Gros and Friends.

The Friday Night Music Club kicks off Jan. 9 with a performance by New Orleans Blues singer Luther Kent, known for his big band performances on the south shore.

Kent joins Allyn Robinson on the drums, Ed Wise on the upright bass and Bruce Elsensohn on the piano.

According to Sturcken, Kent plans to embrace the openstyle concert by ditching his regular stage spot for a bar

stool on the floor, closer to the audience.

The concerts are held in the small theater of the Center of Performing Arts, 201 N. Columbia St., Covington. The concerts will be open only to 60 to 70 people, to help maintain the close atmosphere and personal feel of the shows.

The series continues with five shows, spread out between January and May. The concerts will be held from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on the first Friday of every month, with the exception of January and April when they will be held Jan. 9 and April 10. Each concert includes two sets of music and an intermission.

Audience members will have a chance to meet the musicians before each concert and during intermission.

Find out more about the concert series or purchase tickets at www.centerofperformingarts.net. Tickets are $25 per person or $100 for the full season.

Don’t miss these New Orleans music icons performing at the Center of Performing Arts through May. THE MESMERIZERS: 8 p.m. Feb. 6.

Mesmerizing is the only way to explain Debbie Davis’ big voice and impressive stage presence. Davis is accompanied by Matt Perrine, Alex McMurray and Josh Paxton. The talented group performs a roller coaster of enticing music that varies from American Songbook Classics to New Orleans jazz.

THE PFISTER SISTERS: 8 p.m.

March 6. The world-touring female trio sticks to its New Orleans roots in a performance of traditional jazz music that parallels the sounds of the Boswell Sisters. The performance includes the vocal harmonies of Holley Bendtsen, Yvette Voelker and Debbie Davis.

TIM LAUGHLIN TRIO: 8 p.m.

April 10. The New Orleans native and award-winning clarinetist Tim Laughlin leads the jazz band that includes Hal Smith on the drums and David Boddinghaus on the piano.

JOHN “PAPA” GROS AND FRIENDS: 8 p.m. May 8. The season comes to a close with a performance by the award-winning New Orleans keyboardist John Gros. The Jazz Fest regular combines funky piano skills and soulful vocals for a fun night of music.

Garden Club meeting

Photo provided by St. Tammany Parish Fire Protection District 1

A scheduled tree burn recently was held by St. Tammany Fire Protection District 1 to demonstrate the fire hazards associated with Christmas trees in the home. Trees should be watered daily, and smoke detectors should be located in the room with the tree.

Photo provided by Slidell Garden Club

Charlotte Elias, left, made her home available to the Slidell Garden Club for its November meeting. She is seen with cohostesses Cheryl Duthu, center, and Lucy Band.

The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, December 25, 2014 F 5G

Photo provided by SLT

Actors Lexi Horton, Mary Ellen Kilanowski, David Jacobs, Daniel O’Sullivan and Katie McBay perform for STARC clients on the SLT stage.

TAMMANY TO DO STARC clients and their families recently were treated to the annual STARC Christmas Show presented by members of the Slidell Little Theatre.

Now in its 15th year, the show featured volunteers performing “The Santa Clause Auditions,” written and directed

by Suzanne Parsons Stymiest.

The annual show is a favorite among the thespians. The performance tradition of the annual Christmas Show began when Kathy Jones bid on an auction item at a fundraiser for the American Heart Association that included “a staged play reading in your home.” Jones gifted this item to STARC, and an annual tradition was born.

“The Santa Clause Auditions” cast members included: narrator, Rose Marie Sand; Santa Claus, Fred Martinez; Mrs. Claus, Christine Barnhill-Trammel; elves, Mary Lee Jacobs, Karen Hoyt-Knighton, Sam Sutter, Melissa Benson and Sally Novatney; dancer, Lexi Horton; Who Dat Man, Dan O’Sullivan; Dorothy, Katie McBay; Mickey Mouse, Scott Trammel; Minnie Mouse, Grace Marshall; Elvis, David Jacobs; Easter Bunny, Teresa Augustine; Michael Jackson, Augie Augustine; Christmas tree, Mary Ellen Kilanowski; musicians, Dan Vappie and Augie Augustine; and photographers, Paul and Julie Wood.

TO DO IN ST. TAMMANY MANDEVILLE

BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS AND THE BACK TRAILS HIKE: 8 a.m.

Wednesday, Northlake Nature Center, 23135 U.S. 190. Hikers can enjoy breakfast and a hike through the Back Trails.

FAMILY TREE — FAMILY NEW YEAR’S EVE: 1 p.m. Wednesday, Painting with a Twist Mandeville, 2121 N. Causeway Blvd. Grab the whole family for this painting class. Participants can learn how to paint their family tree, with instruction from a local artist.

The event is for all ages; children ages 6 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. $35.

COVINGTON

BOOGIE FALAYA: 9 p.m. Friday, Columbia Street Tap Room, 434 N. Columbia St. The Covingtonbased band performs New Orleans-infused music in the tap room.

SUPERCHARGER: 10 p.m. Friday, Rock-N-Blues Café, 407 N. Columbia St. The local rock cover band performs.

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 cooking demo by Jeff Kristen Chompers BBQ and live music by Christian Schroeder.

FOOTBALL FOR CHARITY: noon

Sunday, Columbia Street Tap Room and Seiler Bar, 434 N. Columbia St. Head over to watch the Saints-Buccaneers game.

The event benefits a local charity and includes an open bar and auction.

‘STAR WARS’ STAGED READING AUDITIONS: 7 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, Playmakers Theater, 19106 Playmakers Road. The performance is directed by Jacob Zeringue and Kay Files.

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY WITH SOUTHERN HOTEL: 9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Southern Hotel, 428 E. Boston St. Ring in the new year with music by Jimmy Maxwell Orchestra, hors d’oeuvres, desserts and a midnight countdown.

The event includes a cash bar and a complimentary Champagne toast. $80.

Quinlan McKinney, 7, colors a Christmas card. The cards Chris Pierce, Ken Digby and Tom Roam flip pancakes at the Northshore Mandeville Kiwanis will go to patients at Mary annual Pancake Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 6 at Fontainebleau High School in Mandeville. Bird Perkins Hospital.

Advocate staff photos by REBECCA RATLIFF

BATTER UP

Northshore Mandeville Kiwanis brought out the big

pancake wheel for its annual Pancake Breakfast with Santa. As Kiwanis poured up about 2,000 pancakes, Santa arrived to take photos with the kids and hear their Christmas wishes. The annual event is a fundraiser for the international Kiwanis Eliminate Project to end maternal and neonatal tetanus.

SLIDELL

PELICAN FLEUR-DE-LIS: 7 p.m.

Saturday, Painting with a Twist Slidell. 2132 Gause Blvd. Take a break from the holiday stress for a BYOB painting class featuring instruction by a local artist. The group will learn how to paint a fleur-de-lis with a pelican inside.

For adults only. $45.

ABITA SPRINGS

RECOVERY FROM PIES AND LATTES WITH PILATES: 10 a.m.

Saturday, Women’s Center for Healing and Transformation, 71667 Leveson St. Don’t let the holidays weigh you down; join a beginners’ mat Pilates class for $15. Attendees must bring their own mat.

CHRISTMAS CAMP 2014: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday and Tuesday and Jan. 2, Creative Arts of St. Tammany, 70326 La. 59. Kids ages 7-14 can spend the holiday at a three-day theater camp. The camp is followed by a holiday performance at 7 p.m. Jan 2. Tuition is $110.

NEW ORLEANS

MOSCOW BALLET’S ‘GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER’: 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Saenger Theater, 1111 Canal St. Young ballet students from St. Tammany Parish and New Orleans’ world-traveling Moscow Ballet join for the performance of the “Great Russian Nutcracker.”

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, bloody marys, live music, shopping and more.

ABITA SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET: noon to 4 p.m. Sundays, Abita Springs Trailhead. Fresh produce, local food, crafts and more.

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

Ulhi Marschke, 5, tells Santa what he wants for Christmas. Kids were able to have a complimentary photo taken with Santa.

Camille Redmond, 4, explores the inflatable obstacle course at the Northshore Mandeville Kiwanis annual Pancake Breakfast with Santa.

FAITH NOTES RACIAL HARMONY WORKSHOP: The Office of Racial Harmony will host a four-part workshop series on racism from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Mondays from Jan. 5 to Jan. 26 at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, 1050 Robert Blvd.

Slidell.

Facilitating the workshop will be Deacon Warren Berault and Deacon Troy Smith.

The program is a reflection on a pastoral letter on racial harmony, which asks Christians to consider how people are made in the image and likeness of God and to answer the question, “What is God calling you to do?”

Archbishop Gregory Aymond has asked parishioners to take action to help bring an end to “the grievous sin of racism in our church and our community.” A family prayer has been prayed throughout the archdiocese to end violence, murder and racism.

For information, email Sister Teresa Rooney at srrooney@ arch-no.org.

Come shop with us on our sale dates to get your 2015 Loyalty Card (20% off one regular price item in each month of 2015)

Shop every month and get your card punched for a chance to win a $250 gift basket Sale Dates: Friday, December 26th through Saturday, January 3rd Hours: Tuesday through Friday from 10 am – 5pm & Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm Extended Hours: Friday, December 26th from 7 am – 5 pm Closed New Year’s Day Come Early for the Best Selection (December 26th) – Come late for the Best DEALS! Choose from over 500 Bolts!

From 7 am to 9 am - $8 per yard From 9 am to 11 am - $7 per yard From 11 am – 1 pm - $6 per yard From 1 pm – 3 pm - $5 per yard From 3 pm – 5 pm – buy the rest of the bolt for $3 per yard!!

Cast members, artists gather

Photo provided by SLT

Cast members from ‘The Santa Clause Auditions’ for STARC clients, pose with local artist Nolan Lefort and his wife Debbie.

Specials from Friday, December 26th through Saturday, January 3rd All Pre-cut Fat Quarters and ¼ yards – Buy 4 get 1 Free All Regular Price Fat Quarter Bundles, ¼ Yard Bundles, Jelly Rolls, Layer Cakes, Charm Squares, Strips, and Applique Squares 30% Off All Regular Price Books – 40% Off Skinny Bolts – Buy the rest of the bolt and get 20% off regular price (bolts contain approx. 1 – 3 yards)

6G F Thursday, December 25, 2014 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate

Festival pays tribute to beauty of camellias

Advocate staff report

The 64th Ozone Camellia Festival Court was presented during the Ozone Camellia Festival Dec. 6 at Slidell Municipal Auditorium.

Kay Taylor is president of the Ozone Camellia Club, which presents the annual tribute to the Camellia City’s namesake bloom. The show was coordinated by Robert Stroud and was dedicated to David and Ann Manella.

Judges selected among thousands of camellia blooms to honor the most beautiful and representative of each category. Winning artwork from local young art- Stevens ists also was on display.

The 2014 Camellia Festival queen is Victoria Leigh Stevens, a student at Northshore High School Dowden in Slidell, and daughter of James and Marina Stevens, of Slidell.

Consort is William Roger Dowden II, a student at Northshore High School in Slidell, and son of William and Shannon Dowden and grandson of Robert and Erin Stroud, of Slidell.

Members of the court are: Maid Alexis Margaux Kern, a student at LSU Labora- Kern tory School in Baton Rouge, and the daugh-

ter of Nick and Brin Ferlito and granddaughter of Joycelyn Kendrick.

Maid Madeleine Grace Pouw, a student at University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and the daughter of Victor and Teresa Pouw.

Maid Kaegan Jacqueline Case, a student at Harrison Central High School in Gulfport, and the daughter of Christopher Case and Lauren Lucas and granddaughter of John and Brenda Case.

H o n o r Duke Andrew Chance Foltz, a student at Northshore High School in Slidell, and the son of Kevin and Kim Foltz.

Honor Duke Michael Scott Paulsen II, a student at Lakeshore High School in Mandeville, and the son of Dwight and Leslie Paulsen.

H o n o r Duke Matthew Christopher Smith, a student at

Pouw

Case

Foltz

Paulsen

Smith

Black

Northshore High School in Slidell, and the son of Christopher and Karen Smith.

Duke Patrick Alan Black, Dixon a student at Northshore High School in Slidell, and the son of Alan and Deni Black.

Duke Austin Turner Dixon, a student at Long Northshore High School in Slidell, and the son of Richard and Dale Dixon.

Duke Max Gregory Long, a student at Admire Northshore High School in Slidell, and the son of William and Margaret Long.

Crown bearer will be Lindsay Nicole AdI. Airey mire, a student at Lake Castle Private School in Slidell, and the daughter of Larry and Nicole Admire.

Junior court members will J. Airey be Isabele Calais Airey, a student at Little Oak Middle School in Slidell and Jackson Albert Airey, a student at Honey Island Elementary School in Slidell, and the daughter and son of Jacob Airey and Michelle BlanchardAirey.

Photo provided by DAR

St.Tammany DAR members honor memory of former leader

Members of the St. Tammany Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution met recently at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery to pay tribute to the memory of Mary W. Jones, who died in 2005. While living in Slidell, she served the St. Tammany Chapter as a regent for several three-year terms. As registrar, she worked tirelessly to help prospective members acquire the documentation necessary to join the DAR. From left are Karay Klein, Vicki Kirby, Ed Jones, Mickie Francioni and Libby Bentson. For information about the St. Tammany Chapter, email Klein at karayc46@att.net.

Virtual library serves parish during branch holiday closures The St. Tammany Parish Library is closed Thursday and Friday for the holidays, but those who received a smartphone or tablet from Santa will find a virtual library open 24/7 for them. A simple trip to the library’s virtual home, www.sttammanylibrary.org, allows downloads of movies, television shows, music CDs, e-books, audiobooks and magazines.

The library’s Hoopla digital service offers thousands of movies, television shows, CDs and audiobooks that can be downloaded or streamed directly to a digital device with the Hoopla app.

OverDrive delivers more than 10,000 downloadable e-books and nearly 5,000 downloadable audiobooks that can be checked out from a computer, smartphone, digital

Shellie Savoy CHECK IT OUT

reader or tablet.

The library’s 3M Cloud Library offers an additional 4,000 e-books to download.

Zinio delivers downloadable digital copies of print magazines directly to a digital device through the Zinio app.

Freegal offers downloadable music from the Sony catalog.

Library users can download and keep five songs a week.

To get started enjoying all of these options, visit www. sttammanylibrary.org and click on the selected service

in the left-hand column.

Programming for Dec. 25 to Jan. 1 includes: CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY CLOSURE: All library branches will be closed on Thursday and Friday for the Christmas holiday.

FAMILY LEGO ROBOTICS: Families with children 5 and older are invited to learn basic robotics at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Causeway Branch, 3457 U.S. 190, Mandeville. For information, call (985) 626-9779.

KIDS’ HOLIDAY CRAFT: Families are invited to make a hat for New Year’s Eve at 10 a.m.

Wednesday at the Covington Branch, 310 W. 21st Ave. For information, call (985) 8936280.

NEW YEAR’S HOLIDAY CLOSURE: All library branches will close at 2 p.m. on Wednesday and will remain closed on Jan. 1 for the New Year’s holiday.

Christmas Care

Shown are, from left, Annette Hall, founder of Slidell Ladies for Liberty, with Gold Mom Gina Guillory, Linda McCain and Gold Aunt Debbie Miller at the recent preparations for the Christmas Care Package mailout for service men and women deployed overseas.

Photos provided by Slidell High School

First-place camellia art by Tori Firmin will adorn the Ozone Camellia Festival poster in 2015.

Sophomore wins Camellia Festival art contest Advocate staff report Tori Firmin, a sophmore in Ann Lott’s Talented Arts class at Slidell High, won first place at the 64th Ozone Camellia Festival Court recently held at the Slidell Municipal Audi-

DOVIA training for leaders planned Advocate staff report

Managers involved in leading volunteer efforts may benefit from three days of training being presented by Directors of Volunteers in Alliance. The instructor will be Nicholas Auck, director of volunteer outreach for the Volunteer Louisiana Commission.

The series of six courses was developed by the Points of Light Foundation. The first two courses will be presented on Friday, Jan. 16; the second two on Friday, Jan. 23; and the last two on Thursday, Jan. 29.

The first two courses will deal with understanding volunteering and planning a volunteer program.

The second two will deal with recruiting and placing volunteers and orienting and training volunteers. The last two will deal with supervising volunteers and evaluating a volunteer program.

The cost is $45 per session or $200 for the full series, with discounts available for DOVIA members. The workshops will be held at the Brown Foundation, 320 Hammond Highway, Metairie. For information, call Susan Delle Shaffette or Missy Vivien at (985) 624-3514.

torium.

Other winners from the program included secondplace winner junior Miranda Calongne.

Senior Sarah Higgins and freshman Oscar Tostado won honorable mentions.

FROM TOP: Second place, Miranda Calongne; honorable mention, Sarah Higgins; honorable mention, Oscar Tostado

Advocate photo by MISSIE NOEL

The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, December 25, 2014 F 7G

HEALTH BRIEFS YOGA FOR CANCER PATIENTS: Free yoga classes for cancer patients and caregivers will be offered at 5:30 p.m. Monday on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Community Outreach Center, 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.

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

NEW BABY SUPPORT GROUP: Mothers gather with their little ones, from birth to 7 months, to discuss child development and parenting tips with other parents as well as professionals at 11:15 a.m. every Thursday at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. Free. To register or for information, contact ksupan@stph.org or (985) 898-4435.

FREE YOGA IN COVINGTON: Free yoga classes are held at 10 a.m. every Friday at the Paul D. Cordes Outpatient Pavilion, 16300 La. 1085, Covington. The classes, led by Wendy McKee, incorporate yoga techniques appropriate for anyone going through a cancer experience regardless of physical strength or abilities.

Registration and a medical release are required. To register or for information, call (985) 789-0793.

TOTAL JOINT CLASS: A physical therapist, surgical nurse, case manager and orthopedic nurse will discuss preoperative and postoperative care for patients undergoing total joint replacement surgery at 1 p.m.

Wednesday in the Pelican Room of Lakeview Regional Medical Center, 95 Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington.

To reserve a spot, call (985) 867-3900.

COPING WITH DIABETES: Jeannette Rousseau, a diabetes educator with St. Tammany Parish Hospital, will present a program on “Coping with Diabetes and Keeping Well in the New Year� during a Lunch & Learn program from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 20 at the Community Center at Christwood, 100 Christwood Blvd., Covington. The entrance is off Brewster Road.

A light lunch will be provided. Reservations are required and may be made by calling (985) 292-1234 or emailing jportmann@ christwoodrc.com.

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 Happy, 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, BMI 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.

HELP FOR PTSD: Veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder may benefit from a variety of treatments offered by the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System.

For information, call (800) 935-8387 or visit www.ptsd. va.gov.

For veterans in crisis, call (800) 273-8255 and press 1, chat online at veteranscrisisline.net or send a text message to 838255.

Confidential support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Mandeville creative efforts benefit homeless families

Sue White and Carol Miles paint with a purpose for Family Promise of St. Tammany.

Maggie Robert’s version of ‘Laura’s House.’

Photo provided by St. Tammany Parish Hospital

The Dunavant family dedicated the Tribute Angels on the hospice tree to the memory of Harold Kibodeaux. Eric and Angel Dunavant are seen with their children, from left, Clayton, Gracyn and Austen.

Covington hospice tree raises money to care for terminally ill Advocate staff report Photos provided by Family Promise of St. Tammany

Painting with a purpose for Family Promise of St. Tammany are, from left, Krista Carpenter, Beverly Gariepy, Lisa Ramirez, Becky Kennedy, Nancy Soine and Laura Norsworthy.

St. Tammany Parish Hospice was the beneficiary of the Angels of Light fundraiser held Dec. 11 in the lobby of St. Tammany Parish Hospital.

This year’s Angels of Light tree raised nearly $20,000 for hospice, which provides care and comfort to terminally ill patients and their families.

The tree is decorated with more than 400 Tribute Angels, each representing a special person, whether living or deceased, who is being honored or memorialized by a friend or

family member.

The hospice tree is dedicated to the memory of Muriel Gautreaux Gallagher, Hubert Shields “Coach� Gallagher Sr. and their son, Hubert Shields “Hubie� Gallagher Jr., by the Gallagher family. The Tribute Angels are dedicated to the memory of Harold Kibodeaux by the Dunavant Family.

The ceremony featured live music, including the St. Scholastica Academy concert choir and harpist Jessica Meltz, and refreshments provided by Zoe’s Bakery and STPH Food Services.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Photo provided by Bayou Lacombe Middle School

Leadership Northshore participants visit Bayou Lacombe Middle

Participants in the Leadership Northshore program recently visited Bayou Lacombe Middle School in Lacombe as part of their preparation for leadership positions in government, business and community affairs. From left are Brad Rummel, Keri Gutierrez, Taquita Liban, Karen Carroll, Joseph Montelepre and Principal Patrick Woods.

Covington DAR chapter hears from Louisiana Secretary of State

Photo provided by DAR

Louisiana Secretary of State Tom Schedler was the guest speaker at the November meeting of the Wharton Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, held at the Covington home of Leslie Ackel. Schedler discussed ways in which his office is implementing changes in the voting system. From left are Vice Regent Emily Smith, Schedler, Stephanie Schedler, Leslie Ackel and Regent Anne Raposo.

ENTREPRENEURIAL COMMUNITY AWARD: Partners for Livable Communities has presented St. Tammany Parish its Entrepreneurial American Community Award for 2014 in recognition of its success in finding innovative solutions to local problems.

Among the innovations that made St. Tammany Parish a contender are the Maritime Training Institute in downtown Covington, the St. Tammany Fishing Pier near Slidell and the Community Land Trust, which advocates for affordable workforce housing.

CHAMBER AWARDS LUNCHEON: The St. Tammany West Chamber of Commerce will hold its installation and awards luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9, at Tchefuncte Country Club, 2 Country Club Park, Covington.

The Tammany Award will be presented to the local business of the year, and the Community Leadership Award will be presented to a deserving individual.

The cost of the luncheon is

$40 for members who register before Dec. 30, when the price will increase to $45. The price for nonmembers is $55. To register, call (985) 892-3216, ext. 1.

LEADERSHIP SUMMIT: The Northshore Rising Professionals’ Leadership Summit will be held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22, at the Fleur de Lis Event Center, 1645 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville.

Speakers at the event will present information on entrepreneurship, economic development, business principles and ideas to encourage the pursuit of excellence and growth in business and throughout the community.

Speakers will include Michael Hecht, president and CEO of Greater New Orleans Inc.; Tereson Dupuy, inventor of FuzziBunz Diapers; and Carl Herrick, owner of the Sandler Training Center in Baton Rouge.

Admission to the summit is $50. To register or for information, call (985) 273-3008.

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Covington students’ science project focuses on clean water

Eighth-graders Allyson Alexander, Gerilynn Dennis and Britton Deichmann experiment with separation techniques for purifying water as part of Kim Bartlett’s integrated science class at St. Scholastica Academy in Covington. The water unit also included a three-day assessment of water use in the students’ homes so they could better understand the effects of a shortage of clean water.

Photo provided by St. Scholastica Academy Photo provided by Mandeville Junior High School

Mandeville Junior High students compete to create T-shirt logo

The Student Council at Mandeville Junior High School recently sponsored a T-shirt logo contest in connection with the Powder Puff game. Contest participants, front row from left, were Sarah Marino, Emma Johnson, Kelsey Majkowski, Noelle Bordelon, Angelina Chauvin and Carlin Beal, whose logo was selected. In the back row are Emma Hunt, Maye Allen, Caroline Bonner, Lennox Sykes, Stephen Richard, Brianna Li and Garrett Johnson. Sharon Bennett and Mary Ruli are the faculty sponsors of Student Council.

St. Paul’s School students test hypotheses at science fair Advocate staff report Here are the winners in the recent science fair at St. Paul’s School in Covington, organized by teachers John Carambat and Lee Pierre. n Landon Waite and David Cressy (behavioral and social science), first place, senior division n Brandon Nicotri, second place, senior division n Casey Firzmaurice, third place, senior division n Oliver Sibley, honorable mention, senior division. n Josh Devier (plant sciences) first place, junior division n Luc Hebert, (animal science) first place, junior division n Bently Roberts (energy and transport), honorable mention, junior division n John Paul Lea and Warner Moore, first place, cellular and molecular biology n George Cazenavette and Walden Perry, first place, computer science n Alex Nquyen, second place, computer science n Benjamin Dantin and Aaron Nguyen, first place, energy and transportation n Robert Baricev, second place, energy and transportation n Nick Chifici, third place, energy and transportation n Curtis Zuckerman, first

Photo provided by Archbishop Hannan High School

Archbishop Hannan High cheerleaders participate in Toys for Tots

Cheerleaders from Archbishop Hannan High School participated in this year’s Toys for Tots campaign. In the front row from left are Courtney Lombardino, Taylor McDuffie, Regan Morris, Emma Cazaubon, Callie Schior, Justine Keim, Bryanna Andel and Mya Holmes. In the middle row are Kaitlin Wendt, Heather Riecke, Hanna Vollenweider, Christa Laboudette and Sarah Shiflett. In the back row are coach Katie Robinson, Hunter Holmes, Sarah Foy, Faith Gaude, Braeln Leggett, Carey O’Rourke, Lauren Madden, Maiya Delpidio and Macy Mentz.

Local students among USM fall graduates Advocate staff report Photo provided by St. Paul’s School

Benjamin Dantin is seen with his project in the energy and transportation category, for which he won first place with his teammate Aaron Nguyen. place, engineering n Matthew Dysart and Joe Tanner, second place, engineering n Barry Auxillian and James Pagnutti, third place tie, engineering n Ethan Desforge and Ryan Mereaux, third place tie, engineering n Kenneth Avanzino, first place, environmental science n Burke Irwin, second place, environmental science n Winston Dufor, first place, mathematics n Faiz Salam, first place, med-

icine n Ryan Lavin, second place, medicine n Leland Van Deventer, second place, microbiology n Forge Mathes, honorable mention, microbiology n Jake Arena, first place, physics and astronomy n Jared Saltaformaggio, second place, physics and astronomy n Kyle Cleveland, third place, physics and astronomy n Luke Avenel and John Cresson, first place, plant sciences, senior division.

Photo provided by Junior Auxiliary of Slidell

Slidell Juniors in Service help prepare Thanksgiving food baskets

Five participants in the Juniors in Service program of the Junior Auxiliary of Slidell helped assemble 45 Thanksgiving food baskets for distribution to families selected by the staff of the Rainbow Child Care Center. Bryce Connault, Sam Lawson, Torri Chapman, Kristine Stubbs and Miranda Cuttingham were assisted by their JAS mentor, Lena Joyce, and other JAS members. Here, Stubbs and Cuttingham sort food donations for the baskets.

Photos provided by Folsom Junior High School

Photo provided by Our Lady of the Lake Roman Catholic School

Mandeville school gets its second national Blue Ribbon award

The overall academic excellence of Our Lady of the Lake Roman Catholic School in Mandeville was highlighted for a second time when the school was recognized as a 2014 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. The school also won the award in 2004. Principal Frank Smith and Assistant Principal Vita Dickens accepted the honor Nov. 11 from U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. Members of the board of the Parent-Teacher Cooperative Club include, front row from left, Michele McHale, Ysonde Strecker, Elizabeth Wall and Melissa Grand. In the back row are Kathleen Avenel, Robyn Henry, Jessica Vanderbrook, Meredith Golemi, Christine Breaux and Kristine Bourgeois.

Folsom Junior High School recognizes students’ good character

These local students were among those who received degrees during fall commencement exercises at the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg on Dec. 12: Covington: Charlotte Emily McLoughlin, bachelor of arts; Kimberly Belmont, bachelor of science; Ashley Ellen Frosch, bachelor of science in nursing.

Folsom: Courtney Lander Calato, bachelor of fine arts.

Madisonville: Casey Stuart D’Angelo, bachelor of science.

Mandeville: Tanner David Watson, bachelor of arts; Danielle Nicole Beatty, bachelor of science; Joanna Therese Rochelle, bachelor of science; Ashley Horn, bachelor of science in business administration; Stephanie Diane Fradella, naster of education; Rachel Rae Hebert, master of education; Blake Michael Thomas, master of education; Lindsey Marie Schwaner, master of science.

Pearl River: Allyson R. Jones, bachelor of arts.

Slidell: Malcolm Anthony Suttleff Jr., bachelor of science; Sarah A. Epps, doctor of philosophy; Geremy David Jackson, master of education; Stephanie Anne Johnson, Michelle Lynn Pontiff, master of science; William David Tubbs, master of science; Lynn Marie WaltersRauenhorst, specialist in education.

LEFT: The Hawk Heroes for October at Folsom Junior High School are Matthew Taylor, left, and Dylan Moore, with Assistant Principal Amy Barrow. RIGHT: The students of the month for October at Folsom Junior High School are, front to back, Bryce Bailey, Ben Hicks and Scout Cannizzaro.

SCHOOL BRIEFS ST. TAMMANY SCHOOLS DONATE TO BUILD MUSEUM: The St. Tammany Parish Public School System presented the Children’s Museum of St. Tammany with a check for $17,148.77 at a recent School Board meeting. The donation was raised by the individual students, faculty and staff on Black & Gold Day held in November.

Superintendent Trey Folse and the School Board have provided support for the Children’s Museum as a future resource for students in the parish.

The next museum fundraiser is the annual Celebration event to be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

March 8 at the Castine Center at Pelican Park, U.S. 190, near Mandeville. Tables are $1,000,

and individual tickets are $75 through Jan. 16.

Afterward, tickets are $100 each and tables $1,200. Entertainment will include Groovy 7, food, desserts, raffles and live and silent auctions.

For tickets and sponsorship information, call (504) 615-8859, email celebration@cmstkids.org or visit cmstkids.org.

MIDYEAR SCHOOL SWITCHING: Louisiana Connections Academy is an option for families with children who would not benefit from finishing out the school year at their current school.

Louisiana Connections Academy is a free, public virtual school with 1,800 students from kindergarten through 12th

grade.

“Changing to a virtual charter school is not just a change of venue but a change of mindset,” said Louisiana Connections Academy Principal Glenda Jones.

The top reasons for switching schools midyear are when a student is learning at a different rate and would benefit from personalized pacing; when traditional classrooms fail to address the student’s needs to stay focused or recover selfesteem; or when a student’s athletic performance or health routines demand flexibility.

For information, visit www. louisianaconnectionsacademy. com.

Photo provided by Lake Castle Madisonville

Fun while learning Photo provided by Bayou Lacombe Middle School

Bayou Lacombe Middle School honors students of the month

Based on their good character and citizenship, the Bayou Lacombe Middle School students chosen as the October students of the month are, front row from left, Micah Cookman, Beau Brown and Anthony James; and second row, Aeryal Rainey, Sophia Dickens, Rai-lynn Jacobs, Ja’Laina Pichon, Michael Piazza and Imia Laurent.

Emily Baul participates in a pumpkin head race as part of the after-school math and English Lagniappe program at Lake Castle Madisonville. The program for fourth- through eighthgraders offers help with daily assignments and enrichment with accelerated material. The Lagniappe Fall Spectacular featured games employing math and English skills.