Marigny Elementary students learn about American Indian culture ä 8G
THE ST.TAMMANY
ADVOCATE
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THURSDAY NOVEMBER 26, 2015 H
COVINGTON • FOLSOM • LACOMBE • MADISONVILLE • MANDEVILLE • SLIDELL THENEWORLEANSADVOCATE.COM
Sharon Edwards
Churches gear up for holiday meal
TAMMANY TIMES
BY ANDREW CANULETTE Special to the Advocate
Present time: Give gifts for needy families As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, many are of the opinion that it’s too early to think about Christmas. But for the volunteers with St. Tammany Project Christmas, the deadline to help 700 families in need is less than two weeks away. Alan Smith is one of those volunteers. He said the number of families who qualified for assistance this year represents 1,500 children and 40 seniors. Donations are still needed for 350 of the children. “We’ve adopted out 1,150 of the children, and all the seniors,” Smith said. The families range in size from one child to seven. St. Tammany Project Christmas began in 2002 as a partnership that anonymously connects donations to St. Tammany families in need. If someone wants to help a family of four, for example, they are sent the information on a specific family, including ages of the boys and girls and a suggested Christmas wish list. Gifts can range from toys to clothes and bikes. The family’s name and where they live are never revealed, Smith said. The donations result in the parents being able to provide gifts to their children, along with and a good meal, on Christmas Day. On Dec. 12, the families will pick up the unwrapped gifts, as well as a certificate for a ham or turkey and other food items. Some donors even provide Christmas wrapping paper and tape, Smith said. Donations must be dropped off Dec. 7 or Dec. 8 at the American Red Cross Distribution Center, 300 Ashland Way in Madisonville, or at St. Luke the Evangelist Family Life Center, 910 Cross Gates Blvd. in Slidell. Last year, Project Christmas partnered with more than 43 businesses, 13 churches, 26 civic organizations, 10 schools and 150 individuals. Smith said a number of schools, including Archbishop Hannah High, are having toy drives. But most of the support comes from the families or individuals that contact Project Christmas to adopt a family. It’s not yet Thanksgiving, but I’m already thankful for those who want to make sure all families in St. Tammany share in the tradition of Christmas gift-giving and dinner. Project Christmas board members and officers for 2015-16 are President Ginny Kamath, Vice President Mike Callaway, Secretary Cherie Erkel, Treasurer Tim Helbling and Jewell Bayhi, Cheryl Beaver, Beth Gibson, C.J. Griffin, Julie Selking, Alan Smith and Suzanne Switzer. Tax-deductible donations can be mailed to St. Tammany Project Christmas, P.O. Box 4043, Slidell, LA 70459. For information, email information@stprojectchristmas.org, call (985) 259-5770 or visit stprojectchristmas. org.
The essence of the Thanksgiving holiday is gratitude for the good things in our lives. It’s about family, too, and about giving back to the community. And, of course, there’s the food. Tammy White has found a way to combine all those things. She and her two teenage daughters, Abigail and Allison Mims, as well as her husband, Marc White, volunteer at Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Slidell as part of a team that puts on a large community Thanksgiving meal each year. Their efforts, along with scores of other volunteers from a dozen area churches, fed
more than 700 people last year. Meals were served at Aldersgate, as well as at Mount Olive African Methodist Episcopal Church. Volunteers’ labors include more than just serving hot meals for a couple of hours on Thanksgiving morning. Turkeys must be bought and prepared a few days before they’re cooked. There are pies to be baked and all the traditional fixings to be readied. Then, on Thanksgiving Day, there are hot meals to be served not only at Aldersgate and Mount Olive but also to be picked up and delivered to those who cannot reach one of the churches that day. Then, there’s the cleanup.
The 19th annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner will begin with food deliveries at 10 a.m. on Thursday. Cleanup will begin at 1:30 p.m. Sit-down meals will be served between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Aldersgate and Mount Olive AME. This will be the fourth year White and her family help with the dinner. “The first year, we helped prepare meals,” she said. “The second year, we helped deliver them. One year, we drove to Covington and dropped off meals to the sheriff’s officers who weren’t able to be with their own families on Thanksgiving Day. äSee HOLIDAY, page 2G
Advocate staff photo by SCOTT THRELKELD
Tammy and Marcus White, with their children, Abigail, left, and Allison Mims, and baby Philip White, volunteer at Aldersgate United Methodist Church’s annual Thanksgiving Day food giveaway.
Do-gooders indulge in some wishful thanking BY MISSIE NOEL
Special to The Advocate
Advocate staff photo by SCOTT THRELKELD
Kindergartners Shyla Michel, left, and Mattox McKenzie hold hands as they and classmates head to the Mayflower during ‘The Pilgrim’s Voyage,’ a class ‘field trip’ last week at Pontchartrain Elementary in Mandeville.
Pilgrim’s progress
Pontchartrain Elementary students learn about hardships aboard Mayflower, in the New World Advocate staff report Ever wonder about the hardships the Pilgrims faced in traveling to the New World? Ask a kindergartner in Amanda Farris’ class at Pontchartrain Elementary in Mandeville, and you’ll likely learn a lot. The students took a costumed “field trip” aboard the Mayflower last week. It might have been sunny in Mandeville, but aboard their ship it was mostly stormy. The real pilgrims stayed below deck for almost the whole 66-day voyage in 1620, Farris explained in describing her lesson. Be-
cause the Mayflower was a cargo ship, not really designed for people, quarters were especially tight. “Below deck there was no fresh air. There were animals. People used chamber pots, and there was seasickness. ... People didn’t bathe. It smelled bad.” Since the water and food on the real ship spoiled early on, Farris’ young Pilgrims drank (ginger) beer, the way the 17thcentury Pilgrims did; they ate dried meat (jerky) and hard tack (crackers). Boring food and bad smells — things äSee PROGRESS, page 10G
Griffin Robbins raises a toast .
You don’t have to think very hard to make a list of people and agencies that St. Tammany residents can thank for making the parish a better place. Our quick list included The Humane Society, Alexander Milne Development Services, the local branch of Louisiana Veterans Affairs and parish government. But we wondered about who the less obvious contributors might be, so we asked those on our list who they are thankful for. Here’s what they said: Alexander Milne Development Services is relatively new to St. Tammany. It had been located in New Orleans, but Hurricane Katrina destroyed its campus. A temporary home in Laurel, Mississippi, bought time for it to build a new campus in Waldheim on 55 acres, with 12 cottages housing 48 special-needs people. But learning the ropes here during such a time of change was a challenge. Linda Feringa, a member of Milne’s board, is thankful for the STARC organization, specifically Director Diane Baham. “Since the minute we began makBaham ing plans to return to Louisiana, they were so helpful. Diane is a wealth of information about St. Tammany, and we look forward to partnering with STARC in the future. Milne is forever grateful for the friendly tips and advice that Diane and our community neighbors at STARC have given to Milne.” The St. Tammany Humane Society, one of the largest no-kill shelters in the state, runs mostly on donations and community fundraising. Michele Nazar, the volunteer and special events coordinator, was quick to thank one special contributor. “I can think of many folks and groups that help us, but one stands above all others: Christian Serpas and his group, Christian Serpas & Ghost Town. Christian and his band have played at nuäSee WISHFUL, page 2G
2G F Thursday, November 26, 2015 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate
Youth Football League champs crowned The West St. Tammany Youth Football League ended another successful season on Nov. 15 when four championship games were held at Fontainebleau High School. League President Larry Frieman said about 800 players and REC & 200 cheerleaders LEISURE took part in the ANDREW league this seaCANULETTE son. Teams hail from throughout St. Tammany Parish. This year’s champions were the Covington Saints, who defeated the Slidell Titans 22-8
in the 5- to 6-year-old division; the Madisonville Trojans, who beat the Covington Vikings 36-8 in the 7- to 8-year-old division; the Abita Springs Chiefs, who took out the Slidell Titans in the 9- to 10-year-old league by a score of 18-6; and the Lacombe Seminoles, who beat the Abita Springs Knights 2214 in the 11- to 12-year-old title game. “It was a wonderful day in terms of weather and all that went with a day of football championships,� Frieman said. “There were a lot of fans, a lot of parents and a lot players out there who enjoyed themselves. Coach Chris Blocker at Fontainebleau was so just so
hospitable to us as far as opening up the field, the stands, the facility. It all went great. Everything went well.� “And,� Frieman added, “there was good football played on all levels.� The 2015 youth football campaign was Frieman’s first as commissioner for the West St. Tammany League. He said more teams played this year than last, which quite likely makes 2015 the largest in the history of the league. “I’m already looking forward to next season with increased participation (again),� he said. For information on West St. Tammany Youth Football, go online to www.wstfl.org or
SPORTS BRIEFS
check with your area’s recreation district.
Get ready to run
My good friend, Chuck George, a New Orleans area road-race director, says he is staging a 13.1-kilometer race across Lake Pontchartrain early next year. The 8.2-mile course will cross the old U.S. 11 Bridge. The race will be Feb. 20 and will benefit local cancer patients and children in our community. George is calling it the Louisiana Paradise Bridge Run. Go online to www. nolarunning.com for information.
Junior varsity wrestlers from St. Paul’s School in Covington who placed in the Brother Martin Invitational were, front row from left, Cole Ulfers, 132, first; Charlie Layman, 120, third; Miles Lindsey, 132, third; and Eli Applebaum, 129, third. In the second row are Stephen Beach, 220, first; Mason Impastato, 132, second; Beau Taranto, 142, third; Collin Craddock, 150, third; and Matthew Kangas, 220, second. Not pictured are Evan Ulfers, 132, third; and Connor Oviedo, 120, second.
ST. PAUL’S WRESTLING: The St. Paul’s Wrestling Wolves, under the direction of Craig Ketelsen, began the 2015-16 season by competing in two tournaments in early November. The varsity Wolves competed in the Mandeville Open, placing in nine of the 13 weight classes. The younger Wolves traveled to the Brother Martin Invitational for junior varsity and junior high wrestlers, also placing in nine of the 13 weight classes. The Wolves continue their competitions over Thanksgiving with the varsity traveling to Atlanta, and a quad tournament Saturday in the Gene Bennett Sports Complex. TURKEY DAY RACE: Spina Bifida of Greater New Orleans will be the beneficiary of the New Orleans Athletic Club’s Turkey Day Race, presented by the New Orleans Track Club at 8:30 a.m. Thursday beginning and ending at Tad Gormley Stadium in New Orleans City Park. The road race, held since 1907, is open to participants of all running and walking skill levels. The event will include a scenic 5-mile run/ walk and a half-mile kids’ race. Registration is open at runNOTC. org, with fees of $30 for the fivemile event and $20 for the half-mile event. Race-day registration opens on-site at 7 a.m. COVINGTON TURKEY TROT: The 12th annual Lung Cancer Run for Hope will be held for the fifth year as a Turkey Trot 5K and 1-mile fun run beginning at 7:30 a.m. Thursday at the Town Square in the Terra Bella subdivision, 141 Terra Bella Blvd., Covington. The entry fee is $30. For information, call Elaine Lombardo, (504) 715-2768; Marc Lombardo, (985) 892-8822; or Vince Lombardo Jr., (985) 630-9896. All proceeds will benefit the MD Anderson Network.
Varsity wrestlers from St. Paul’s School in Covington who placed in the Mandeville open were, front row from left, Billy Harrison, 138, first; Brandon Stein, 106, first; Sam Dufour, 160, first; and Jake Arena, 145, fourth. In the second row are Shane Ulfers, 126, first; Jash Mascaro, 182, first; Kyle Schech, 195, first; Collin Francis, 220, first; and Christian Fortner, 285, second. Photos provided by St. Paul’s School
WISHFUL
Continued from page 2G merous fundraising functions, and Christian is our emcee at our ‘Yappy Hour’ events and with our ‘Mutt Strut.’ I can’t say enough good things about Christian, his wife, Melissa, and the bandmates. For all they do, St. Tammany Humane Society is truly thankful.� Mandeville Mayor Donald Villere knew instantly who he wanted to thank. “Our local police agencies,� especially the St. Tammany Sheriff’s Office. Each city in the parish has its own police force, but the Sheriff’s Office offers them a safety net of sorts. “The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office is always there to help us in crisis and with large activities that go beyond our physical capabilities,� he said. It collaborates with other agencies to keep the whole community safe. “The Sheriff’s Office works together with our local police officers to keep drugs out of our community and provides helicopters and boats in emergencies.� Matt Cole works as the state Department of Veterans Affairs veterans assistive counselor in St. Tammany. The former Marine was wounded in combat during his second tour of duty in Iraq.
Photo provided by Exchange Club of West St. Tammany
From left are retired Col. Pete McClenehan, Frank Oliveri, Col. Michael Brown and Exchange Club Secretary Jacob Butcher.
Exchange Club honors veterans with breakfast struggle with the “constant transitioning� of promotions Col. Michael Brown was the and responsibilities, involving guest speaker when the Ex- moves that affect children in change Club of West St. Tam- schools and spouses with camany met on Veterans Day reers. The Exchange Club meets at the Christwood retirement community in Covington. He at 7:30 a.m. Wednesdays at discussed how active military, Christwood. For information, veterans and their families visit sttammanyexchange.org. Advocate staff report
HOLIDAY
Continued from page 1G “It’s just awesome for the girls to be able to see how we can all help others. Abigail said it was just being able to help others that made it important to her. It helps remind us how good things are for us and how we can help.� Ronny Kastner, who coordinates the dinner, said more than 100 volunteers assist each year. “We buy the turkeys and cook them,� he said. “One church will bring stuffing, another will bring the mashed potatoes and another will bring the green beans. People help with butter and rolls — everything down to the aluminum foil, and the plates are donated.� Kastner said well more than a dozen churches help the cause either before the dinner or during it. “It’s about community,� he said. “It brings out the best in people. You hope that if you can bring people together around the holidays, when they are thinking about want-
ing to help, that it creates the thought and desire to help out throughout the year.� White said one thing she finds impressive about the dinner is the work put in by young people. There are “so many high school groups that come out, Key Clubs, things like that. It’s encouraging to see that so many people want to help,� she said. If you know of someone who needs a meal or simply needs some company on Thanksgiving Day, call (985) 326-9849 or email slidellthanksgiving@gmail.com. Please provide name, address, contact number(s) and number of meals needed. To enjoy a sit-down meal between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., go to Aldersgate UMC, 360 Robert Blvd., north Slidell, or to Mount Olive AME Feeding Ministry, 2442 Second St., Olde Towne Slidell. You can call the above telephone number to let them know you’re coming, but Kastner said no one will be turned away. Anyone wanting to make a cash donation to help fund next year’s event can contact the churches, he added.
CONTACT US THE ST. TAMMANY ADVOCATE Published every Wednesday Submissions: Send news by Monday at 5 p.m. to be published 10 days later, as space is available. Original photos will run as space is available and must be highresolution JPEG attachments, 1MB or larger. First and last names must be included, from left to right.
Advocate file photo by SCOTT THRELKELD
The St. Tammany Sheriff’s Office drew thanks for its parishwide efforts at keeping people safe. “I am most thankful for the services offered locally by the Wounded War Heroes organization,� he said. It gives wounded veterans therapeutic outdoor experiences. Matt was a beneficiary of the program. “Wounded War Heroes gave me the jump-start I needed to begin the road to a real re-
covery, a meaningful career and a wonderful life with my family.� The program has assisted a couple of local veterans. Cole talked about one young man who had served in Afghanistan and was struggling emotion-
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Christian Serpas & Ghost Town won thanks from the St. Tammany Humane Society for their performances at fundraisers.
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ally. The group treated him to three weekends of fishing trips and got him back involved in life with recreational therapy. He now has a new attitude, a full-time job and a completely new outlook on his future.
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Photo provided by Greater Baton Rouge State Fair
Email news and photos to: sttammany@theadvocate.com Read online at: theneworleans advocate.com/community/ sttammany
Contact: Karen Taylor Gist The New Orleans Advocate 1160 N. Causeway Blvd. Mandeville, LA, 70471 (504) 636-7434
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Libraries thank supporters It is the time of year when our thoughts turn to gratitude. We have much to be thankful for at the St. Tammany Parish Library, including our wonderful Friends and Foundation groups that work hard all year long to support the mission of the library. CHECK IT Friends of the OUT Slidell Library SHELLIE will celebrate its SAVOY LISTER 40th anniversary in 2016. Originally founded to serve just the Slidell Library, Friends expanded its scope to include the Pearl River and Lacombe libraries in 2011. The West St. Tammany Friends of the Library has served the library branches on the west side of the parish for 34 years. The generosity of both Friends organizations has filled countless needs of the library system, such as library furniture, shelving and book drops. They also provided the salaries for assistants for the Summer Reading Program, our busiest time of the year, and special events such as lecture series and concerts. The St. Tammany Library Foundation worked to showcase the work of local author Walker Percy at the Madi-
Abita Springs third-graders adopt 2 bats Advocate staff report Students in Theresa Curtis’ third-grade class at Abita Springs Elementary School adopted two bats during their study of bats at Halloween. They sent donations to a bat sanctuary that houses injured or orphaned bats that can’t return to their habitat.
sonville Library. The Walker Percy Serenity Circle was created, and the Foundation is selling pavers to fund the creation of a bronze sculpture of the author and his dog. The Foundation is undertaking other initiatives to raise money for library needs. In February, it will raise funds at local coffee shops with “Latte Love Your Library.” Each shop will donate a portion of its latte sales to benefit the Foundation, and ultimately, the library. As library director Donald Westmoreland said, “Each of these groups is filled with wonderful, hardworking volunteers who give their time and talents to support the library. We are truly grateful for their generosity.” Programming for Nov. 25 to Dec. 2 includes: FAMILY LEGO ROBOTICS: Families with children older than 5 are invited to learn basic robotics at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Slidell Library, 555 Robert Blvd. For information, call (985) 646-6470. MUSIC AND MOVEMENT: Preschoolers and their caregivers are invited to shake, shimmy and dance while learning early literacy concepts at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Causeway Branch, 3457 U.S. 190, Mandeville. For information, call (985) 626-9779. BEGINNER LEGO ROBOTICS: Chil-
dren ages 7 to 11 years old are invited to learn basic robotics at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Slidell Library, 555 Robert Blvd. For information, call (985) 646-6470. THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY CLOSURE: All St. Tammany Parish Library branches will be closed Thursday, Friday and Saturday. AUTHOR ELIZABETH HILBY: Hilby will discuss her new book, “Give a Little Sunshine,” and lead a holiday craft at 1 p.m. Monday at the Pearl River Library, 64580 La. 41. For information, call (985) 863-5518. PARENTING WORKSHOP: Melissa Dickerson, of the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, will teach parents how to manage their family’s stress at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Madisonville Library, 1123 Main St. For information, call (985) 845-4819. SNOWY SNOWY STORIES: Families are invited to hear snow stories, make a craft and enjoy hot cocoa at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Lacombe Library, 28027 U.S. 190. For information, call (985) 882-7858. MADISONVILLE BOOK CLUB: The club will discuss “A Winter Dream” by Richard Paul Evans at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Madisonville Library, 1123 Main St. For information about the club, call library associate Monique Audibert at (985) 845-4819.
In the front row are Molly Nelson, left, and Katie LeBlanc. In the second row are Brittany Frisard, Ashley Woods, Toby Gallegos, Marissa Taylor and Abby Graham. In the third row are Hannah Miller, Annah Sharp, Jonathan Nixon, Jasper Oyler Photo provided by Abita Springs Elementary School and Averie Lee.
NEIGHBORHOOD BRIEFS NORTHLAKE MANDEVILLE ROTARY CLUB: Louisiana native Ellen Rogers, now music director for the Unity Church of the Bay Area near Houston, returned recently to perform at a fundraiser for the Covington Food Bank. During her visit, she provided entertainment during a regular lunch meeting of the Northlake Mandeville Rotary Club; she is the daughter of longtime Rotarian Jimmie Rogers. Accompanied by pianist Lacy Blackledge, she sang old favorites such as “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” “At Last,” and “Georgia,” inspiring club members Sam Camp and Sandra Gallo Gibson to dance. For information on the club, visit www.mandevillerotary.org. HOLIDAY BOOK DRIVE: The eastside Teen Volunteer Council of the St. Tammany Parish Library is collecting new and gently used books through Dec. 4 for holiday distribution to underprivileged children and teens. Books are requested for children from preschool through age 14. The program is a partnership between the TVC and St. Tammany Project Christmas, which provides needy children in St. Tammany Parish with a complete Christmas with the help of donations of money and gifts from public and private agencies, businesses, churches, civic organizations and individuals. Donated books should be dropped off at the Slidell Branch Library, 555 Robert Blvd., Slidell. After-hours donations can be placed in the book return box, wrapped in a piece of paper marked “TVC book drive” and secured with a rubber band. For information, call Slidell teen librarian and TVC coordinator Hilari Farlow at (985) 646-6470, ext. 111. SLIDELL LADIES FOR LIBERTY: The Emerging Young Professionals group of the East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce is supporting Slidell Ladies for Liberty in its effort to collect supplies to send to local soldiers deployed in harm’s way. The deadline for drop-off is Dec. 8. Suggested donations include protein bars, tuna fish, body wash, deodorant, lotions, insole supports, DVDs, snacks and drink mixes. For information, visit slidellladiesforliberty.com. Drop-off locations, in Slidell unless specified, are: American Legion, 2233 Carey St.; Bratton Physical Therapy, 1346 Lindberg Drive No. 3; Chamber of Commerce, 1808 Front St.; Champagne Jewelers, 1344 Corporate Square; Contract Post Office, 2157 E. Gause Blvd.; Crossgates Firestone, 165 N. Military Road; Dr. Kevin Curley DDS, 2800 E.
Photos provided by Northlake Mandeville Rotary Club
Northlake Mandeville Rotary Club members Sandra Gallo Gibson and Sam Camp dance to the music performed by Ellen Rogers and Lacy Blackledge at a recent meeting.
From left are pianist Lacy Blackledge, Northlake Mandeville Rotary Club member Jimmy Rogers, entertainer Ellen Rogers and club President Steve Satterlee. Gause Blvd.; Goodyear, 2120 E. Gause Blvd.; Gulf Coast Bank, 1900 Oak Harbor Blvd.; InfiniTees, 815 Robert Blvd.; Patriot Title, 245 Pontchartrain Drive; Stadium Cuts, 1750 N. Causeway Blvd., Suite No. 120, Mandeville; and Top Agency Realty, 1928 Third St. CHRISTMAS AT TERRA BELLA: A free holiday event will be held
from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, at Terra Bella Village, 141 Terra Bella Blvd., Covington. There will be live holiday music, hot chocolate, Christmas crafts and rides on the Terra Bella Express. Santa Claus will be on hand to meet the children and hear about their wish lists. There will also be a coat drive for the homeless. For information, call (985) 871-7171.
4G F Thursday, November 26, 2015 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate
Northshore High School Army JROTC members, from left, Madison Morales, Sharda Owens and Jacie Fontenot
Advocate photos by MISSIE NOEL
Patrick Burke, Michael Carroll and David Rice
Dan Crowley, the Rev. Edward Grice and Chuck Sabadie
Veterans honored in Slidell
Veterans from throughout the parish were greeted with patriotic music and a formal honor guard as they entered the Slidell City Auditorium on Nov. 1 for the third annual Veterans Appreciation ReTAMMANY ception. SCENE Each table feaMISSIE tured a colorful NOEL centerpiece with red, white and blue placemats and votives. Lunch was provided by Dickie’s Barbeque, Piccadilly, Zea’s and Southside Café, among others. Members of several local JROTC programs and Knights of Columbus Assemblies volunteered as servers and waiters. Col. Bruce Wilson led the presentation of the colors, and Jennifer Drennan sang the national anthem. City Councilwoman
Kim Harbison led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a touching blessing by the Rev. Ed Grice. It was clear to see the excitement of the veterans in attendance, whose service included World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and tours in the Middle East.
Navy World War II veteran David Broussard and his wife, Pat
Krewe Captain Tom Collins and founder Charlotte Collins
Mona Lisa smiles on new Carnival season Fans and krewe members celebrated the reign of Queen Mona Lisa Missi Spinosa and King MoonPie Andy Breaux at the official King and Queen Party for the Krewe of Mona Lisa and MoonPie, held Nov. 6 at the Victorian Room on Carey
Guest speakers included Matt Cole, of Wounded War Heroes; Sean Noel, of St. Tammany Remembers; Debbie Crouch, of Habitat for Humanity’s Veterans Build; Darlene Graves, of Wreaths Across America; and Daniele Palen, of the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery. Slidell Mayor Freddie Drennan,
Street in the heart of Olde Towne Slidell. Keeping with the 2016 parade theme of “Mona Lisa’s Battle of the Bands,” the two royals are well-known in the local music scene. Spinosa has performed for many years with the band Witness, and Breaux his band, Redline, have entertained thousands. The Krewe of Mona Lisa and
Raymond, Carol and Bill Kahrs Commandant Mary Draughn and Terry O’Malley completed the afternoon’s festivities with prayers and praise for each of the veterans. Each of the more than 100 veterans in attendance rose to
salute as their branch’s theme song was played during a “Salute to the Services.” Businessman Chuck Sabadie helped coordinate the event. “We are so happy to have the opportunity to let our veterans
know that we appreciate their service and to thank them publicly with a fun, free celebration in their honor,” he said. The event is a continuation of a Leadership Northshore class project started in 2007.
Donovan Doucette, Edward Doyle, Joe Rotolo and Jim Burrell
Joey Spinosa and Michelle Vogel
King MoonPie Andy Breaux and Queen Mona Lisa Missi Spinosa
MoonPie claims to be Slidell’s original marching Mardi Gras parade and the only one with flambeaux. Krewe Captain Tom Collins said the 2016 parade will roll at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, on Carey Street in Olde Towne Slidell. To become a member or register your mini-krewe, visit www.monalisaandmoonpie.com.
Sheri Plauche, Brett Legendre and Terri Normand
Ken and Hollie Teague, and Stacey and Doug Maximo
Misty Burckel, Lauren Finch, Michael and Melissa Reed
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HEALTH BRIEFS HEALTH INSURANCE BASICS: The League of Women Voters of Louisiana has posted a “Health Insurance Basics� report on its website, www.lwvofla.org. This briefly discusses the benefits of health insurance coverage; the dates for Marketplace enrollment or renewal or change of an existing plan; information to have on hand; and steps to enroll or renew or change an insurance plan. The report also includes a table showing for each size household the range of incomes that may make individuals eligible to receive help to pay for health insurance in the Marketplace under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Health insurance is a contract between a consumer and an insurance company. The ACA extends health insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. A number of organizations provide free assistance with the Health Insurance Marketplace. “Health Insurance Basics� provides phone and email contact information for these organizations. COAST CAREGIVER GROUPS: For those taking care of a loved one or friend at home with Alzheimer’s or dementia, the Council on Aging for St. Tammany Parish offers free informal opportunities to share successes and struggles of caregiving. COAST will provide an experienced facilitator who will listen and offer feedback to caregivers in a setting where people can meet other caregivers. In Slidell, there will be an education and support group meeting from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Monday at the Slidell Senior Center, 610 Cousin St. The group will meet again from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15. In Covington, there will be an education and support group meeting from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8, at the Covington Senior Center, 500 Theard St. The group will meet again from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 22. MANAGING STRESS: Melissa Dickerson of the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center will give a presentation on stress management from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Madisonville branch of the St. Tammany Parish Library, 1123 Main St., Madisonville. The workshop will be the second in a series on parenting. The event is free and open to the public. To register, visit register. stpl.us/evanced/lib/eventcalendar.asp or call the library at (985) 845-4819. DIABETES SELF-MANAGEMENT: The diabetes self-management education program at St. Tammany Parish Hospital recently received the American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for quality. Programs that achieve Recognition status have a staff of knowledgeable health professionals who can provide participants with comprehensive information about diabetes management. CARDIAC REHABILITATION: Louisiana Heart Hospital in Lacombe has had its cardiac rehabilitation program certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. The hospital was recognized for its commitment to improving the quality of life by enhancing standards of care. Dr. Michael Braxton is medical director of cardiac
St. Tammany senior center menus Council on Aging St. Tammany senior center meal menus. For information, call (985) 892-0377 or visit www.coastseniors.org.
MONDAY
Red kidney beans, smoked sausage, parslied rice, California vegetable blend, wheat bread, seasonal fruit, milk
TUESDAY
Grilled pork patty, brown gravy, mashed spiced yams, cabbage, wheat bread, diced pears, milk
DECEMBER 2
Turkey pot roast, whipped potatoes, green beans, orange juice, dinner roll, lemon pudding cake, milk
DECEMBER 3
Creole steak, oven-roasted potato medley, spinach, wheat bread, tropical fruit, milk
DECEMBER 4
Chicken and sausage gumbo, buttered rice, whole kernel corn, fruit-blend juice, crackers, sugar cookie, milk MEALS ARE SERVED AT THE FOLLOWING COAST SENIOR CENTERS: BUSH SENIOR CENTER: 81605 La. 41. Call (985) 886-8971. COVINGTON SENIOR CENTER: Greater Starlight Baptist Church, 513 W. 28th Ave. Call (985) 8928530. FOLSOM SENIOR CENTER: 13111 Cleveland St. Call (985) 796-9950. LACOMBE SENIOR CENTER: Village Lutheran Church, 29180 La. 190. Call (985) 218-9340. PEARL RIVER SENIOR CENTER: 39443 La. 41 Spur. Call (985) 8632540. MANDEVILLE SENIOR CENTER: Paul Spitzfaden Community Center, 3090 E. Causeway Approach. Call (985) 624-4629. SLIDELL SENIOR CENTER: 610 Cousin St. Call (985) 641-1852.
FAITH NOTES rehabilitation at Louisiana Heart Hospital. Cardiovascular rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with cardiovascular problems — such as heart attacks or coronary artery bypass graft surgery — recover faster and improve their quality of life. Programs include exercise, education, counseling, and support for patients and their families.
NATIVITY WALK: Nativity scenes will be on display during a Nativity Walk from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, in the fellowship hall of First United Methodist Church Slidell, 433 Erlanger St., Slidell. The Women of First Church are sponsoring the event, which will include punch and cookies. For information, visit firstumcslidell.org or call the
church office at (985) 643-6437. “GOD’S UNCONDITIONAL LOVE�: The Rev. Doug Doussan will begin the Year of Mercy with a day of prayer with the theme “God’s Unconditional Love� on Dec. 11 at the Archdiocese of New Orleans Retreat Center, 5500 St. Mary St., Metairie. A $35 offering is suggested. For information, visit retreats.arch-no.org or call (504)
887-1420. “FINDING PEACE THROUGH FORGIVENESS�: Father Tony Rigoli will lead a day of prayer with the theme “Finding Peace Through Forgiveness� on Jan. 12 at the Archdiocese of New Orleans Retreat Center, 5500 St. Mary St., Metairie. A $35 offering is suggested. For information, visit retreats.arch-no.org or call (504)
887-1420. “PRACTICING MERCY�: The Rev. Philip Chircop will lead a program, “Practicing Mercy: Kissed by Mercy, Embraced by Love,� Jan. 22-24 at the Archdiocese of New Orleans Retreat Center, 5500 St. Mary St., Metairie. A $225 offering is suggested. For information, visit retreats.arch-no.org or call (504) 887-1420.
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6G F Thursday, November 26, 2015 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate
schools
SCHOOL BRIEFS
Miller
Pippins
PINE VIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL: The October students of the month at Pine View Middle School in Covington are fourth-grader Anzlie Miller, fifth-grader Taiylor Pippins and sixth-grader Oluwanfunmi Otukelo. FLORIDA AVENUE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: October citizens of
the month at Florida Avenue Elementary School in Slidell are Gage Albers, Ryam Ale, Justin Bautista, Zaki Bazanac, Grant Otukelo Bridges, Isabella Campbell, Bransen Champagne, Brody Cutrer, Logan Echols, Andrew Emerson, Nora Finchis, Waylon Gayle, Lily Gonzalez, Jeremiah Harrison, Grace Helmke, Jason Helmke, Neil Kirsh, Ava Krantz, Tamea Madison, Ryan Marquez, Giovanny Martinez, Peyton Mautner, Tyler Page, Jayla
Parks, Evan Price, Isabella Rivera, Aleah Robertson, Beau Ross, Devora Sales-Hernandez, Alaysia Simmons, Tony Van Etten, Alison Villanueva, Jaden Washington, Ja’Shelle Williams and Stephanie Williams. Citizens of the month are honored as part of Florida Avenue Elementary’s Positive Behavior Support program. Students are recognized for listening and assisting classmates and teachers in need; serving as a positive influence in the classroom and community; demonstrating a positive/ helpful attitude; participating in class celebrations; demonstrating a strong effort in academic endeavors; and leadership.
Photos provided by Bayou Lacombe Middle School
In the front row, from left, are Laurie Carroll, president of the VFW Auxiliary; Ginger Bruce; Diane Dalferes; and Jason Kahl. In the back row, from left, are Pat Burke, Terry Sauls, District Commander Mickey Carroll, Joan Moody and Mark Moody.
Teams compete at Louisiana’s FIRST Tech Challenge League, the first robotics competition league meet in Louisiana.
Bayou Lacombe Middle School honors veterans was VFW District Cmdr. Mickey Carroll, and representatives Bayou Lacombe Middle of VFW Post 8290 and its AuxSchool honored veterans from iliary presented certificates all branches of the military on and gift cards to the winners Nov. 11. The keynote speaker of a Veterans Day contest. The Advocate staff report
Photo provided by St. Mary’s Dominican High School
program began with a welcome from fifth-grader Kamrie Sylve, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Aeryal Rainey and McKenzie Frosch and musical entertainment.
Dominican hosts robotics competition shore High School’s Team Pyrogen, first; Jesuit High School’s Robotics teams from nine Blue Jays, second; and Manarea high schools converged deville High School’s S.S. Epiat St. Mary’s Dominican High metheus, third. Other competitors were DoSchool recently for a Louisiana FIRST Tech Challenge League minican Robotics; the Tech Titans, of Brother Martin High event. FIRST Tech Challenges allow School; The Power-Struck Girls, students in grades seven though of Academy of Our Lady; Hel12 to compete head to head us- lion, of Salmen High School; ing a sports model. Teams are Dark Matter, of Mandeville Juresponsible for designing, build- nior High School; and Patrick F. ing and programming robots to Taylor Academy High School compete in an alliance format Robotics. “The students had a great against other teams in a game time, and I know learned a lot called Res-Q. The top teams were North- by having our competition so Advocate staff report
early in the season,” said Dominican robotics coach and science teacher Crissy Giacona. “This will allow them to make adjustments to their robot and be more competitive at the next competition. I look forward to seeing how their robots evolve.” “This was the first of many FTC league matches for the state of Louisiana. I think this robotics competition offers a fun challenge for our students, and I’m excited to be a part of its growth in our state,” said Kyle White, a physics teacher at Jesuit High School who is coach and moderator of its robotics team.
Contest winners, from left, are Brea Rainey, Hunter Thomas, Zaria Anders, Rhiannon Legaux and Ashley Casnave.
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The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, November 26, 2015 F 7G
Audubon chefs offer chance to feast from the ground up Advocate staff report Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium wants to put a bug in your ear about a special holiday program. More accurately, it wants to put a bug — lots of bugs — in your mouth, instead. Photo provided by The Audubon Audubon executive bug chefs Institute on Wednesday are offering visiIt may take a bit of bravery to tors a chance to taste twists on sample the bug-filled dishes. traditional Thanksgiving fam-
ily recipes: turkey with cornbread and mealworm stuffing, wax worm cranberry sauce and cricket pumpkin pie. Mouth watering yet? Go to the Tiny Termite Café at the insectarium. You’ll also learn how people all over the world cook with insects. Other dishes will include chocolate “chirp” cookies and six-legged salsa. (The cafe will be serving its regular fare as
well.) The tastings, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, are free with regular admission to the Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, 423 Canal St., New Orleans, while supplies last. Tickets are $16.95 adult; $11.95 ages 2 -12; and $13.95 for seniors over 65. Advanced tickets are recommended; visit AudubonInstitute.org. Call (504) 524-2847 for Audubon executive bug chefs will do the cooking in the Tiny Termite Café. information.
DAR marks Veterans Day with celebration in Slidell Advocate staff report
Advocate staff photo by SCOTT THRELKELD
People browse information booths during the heart health seminar.
Hospital holds Women’s Heart Health seminar Advocate staff report Slidell Memorial Hospital Women’s Health Alliance recently held its 30th annual Women’s Heart Health semi-
nar at the Northshore Harbor Center near Slidell. The event featured a panel discussion about heart health, information booths, health screenings, a fashion show and a luncheon.
The St. Tammany Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution marked Veterans Day by honoring veterans at the Greenbriar Community Care Center in Slidell with an outdoor party. The 20 veterans at Greenbriar are Marvin Anderson, Army; Alfred Chadwick, Submarine Division, Korea; Christian Enclade, Army, WWII; Carl Enxing, Navy, Korea; Orfilla Guerra, Army Air Corps, WWII; Janas Hall, Coast Guard; Edwin Kirshner, Air Force; Robert Landry, Navy; Michael Lutyhe, Army, Korea; George McCormack, Army/Navy, Korea; Thomas McMichael, Air Force, Vietnam; Dale McWilliams,Vietnam; Leon Overall, Army; Henry Pattison, Army; Frank Pyle, Air Force; Peter Saltarelli, Army; John Schorr, Marine Corps, WWII; John Self, Army Airborne, Korea; Lester Tangus; and Albert Toncrey Sr., Army Merchant Marine, WWII. The Slidell High School Junior Naval ROTC, led by Master Sgt. Chris Guthrie, joined the Veterans Day observance. The ROTC provided the color guard, presented a new flag and assisted in an emotional flag-retirement ceremony.
Photos provided by St. Tammany Chapter DAR
The Slidell High School Junior Naval ROTC participated in the Veterans Day observance. From left are cadets Nicholas Chandler, Ryan Fife, Tristan Shally and Dustin Pearson. Fire District No. 1, Engine 17, participated in the ceremony. The cadets shook hands with each of the veterans. DAR members presented gifts to the veterans and served refreshments to veterans and others at Greenbriar Center. For information about the St. Tammany chapter, email Karay Klein at karayc46@att.net.
Model Bruce Anzalone has his hair styled by Laura Kaufmann before a fashion show that was part of the seminar.
Changing Jobs Or Retiring? Understand your options for your Retirement Savings If you are changing jobs, displaced, or retiring, one of the most important decisions you may face is how to handle the money you’ve worked hard to earn and save. Your Wells Fargo Advisor can provide personalized guidance that will help you create a retirement savings or retirement income plan that fits your financial goals and vision. From retirement planning, 401k rollovers and investing, we are here to help you succeed financially. Call 985-626-7717 or 800-825-7717 to schedule your free consultation. Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC #2 Sanctuary Blvd, Suite 101 Mandeville, LA 70471 Ph: 985-626-7717 / 800-825-7717 Investment and Insurance Products: fNOT FDIC Insured f NO Bank Guarantee f MAY Lose Value
From left are DAR members Vicki Kirby, Harriet White and Bobbie Foster
Crowds turn out to get info on heart health.
Leadership Northshore participants visit Bayou Lacombe Middle School Advocate staff report
as part of its program of preparing emerging community Leadership Northshore par- leaders in local government, ticipants visited Bayou La- business and community afcombe Middle School recently fairs.
Photo provided by Bayou Lacombe Middle School
Seated, from left, are Bayou Lacombe Middle School sixthgraders Landon Bush and Mekhi Batiste. Behind them are Matt Meyers, Marianne White, Cynthia Boudreaux, Anthony Andre and Kristina Nelson.
Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate nonbank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2015 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved. 1015-04682
8G F Thursday, November 26, 2015 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate
Parent volunteer Jessica Griffin, left, helps Preston Pelloat, right, and other first-graders make rattles out of water bottles and corn during Thanksgiving Day activities Nov. 17 at Marigny Elementary in Mandeville.
Advocate staff photos by SCOTT THRELKELD
First-graders in Karen Constanzaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s class perform a buffalo dance during Thanksgiving activities at Marigny Elementary in Mandeville.
Anya Chaney-Martinez, right, finishes a rattle she made.
Marigny students learn about pilgrims, American Indians A look at Native American culture came first. Students At Marigny Elementary moved among activities set up School in Mandeville, all 10 in several classrooms. Sitting first-grade classes spent the around a teepee, they practiced week before Thanksgiving songs for a big powwow. At other stations, students learning about American Indimade rattles and head pieces ans and pilgrims. Advocate staff report
First-grader Arthur Johnson gives the Native American hand sign for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;buffalo.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; and learned sign language and dances. Along the way, they learned how Native Americans interacted with the land and other resources and what they ate. The pilgrimsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; story and the big feast came a few days later.
First-graders Bella Ortiz, left, and Catherine Thriffiley decorate their American Indian shirts.
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The Advocate F theneworleansadvocate.com F Thursday, November 26, 2015 F 9G
Pontchartrain Vineyards uncorks holiday event Crawfish Monica, shrimp étouffée, jambalaya, filé gumbo: The savory dishes that fill our plates here in southeast Louisiana are so exclusive to our area even their names are incomprehensible for most of the country. So why should we pair our distinct cuisine with the same wine that’s paired with crabcakes in Massachusetts or chicken Alfredo in Illinois? A local vineTAMMANY yard ventured TRACKER away from ABBY imitating the traDONALDSON ditional grocerystore wines that don labels from foreign vineyards to create wines that satisfy the special New Orleans palate. “We’re keenly aware of our cuisine here in southeast Louisiana. We try to craft our wines in a way that is foodfriendly to that local cuisine,” said Bryan Dias, marketing director at Pontchartrain Vineyards. Pontchartrain Vineyards, located in Bush, is the largest wine grape grower in Louisiana and the only vineyard in the New Orleans metro area that is fully operational. The 15-acre vineyard emphasized state-grown wine grapes since it opened in 1991. It now produces about 10 different wines year-round. “Really, what matters is what you like. That’s what we really encourage people,” said Dias, explaining that Pontchartrain Vineyard wines do not have to be paired with Southern dishes. If the locally made wine doesn’t reel you in at Pontchartrain Vineyards, the locally infused events will. Pontchartrain Vineyards will conclude its fall music series this weekend with the annual Holiday’n the Vines event from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday at the vineyards, 81250 Old Military Road, Bush. “The setting itself is what I think is really unique,” Dias
Advocate photos by LIZ SMITH
Cindy Vice, left, and Heather Case conducted wine tastings last year at the annual Holiday’n the Vines Festival held at the Pontchartrain Vineyards in Bush. grocery store this weekend but not to run errands. Rouses will host a tasting, featuring Three Olives and Grey Goose Photo by BRYAN DIAS cocktails, at three of its locaA young girl rides a horse with help from one of the LSU tions: 4350 La. 22, Mandeville; Equestrian team members at last year’s Holiday’n the Vines 3461 E. Causeway Approach, event. Mandeville; and 1200 Business U.S. 190, Mandeville. WINE CLUB RELEASE EVENT: said. “There’s nowhere else in wine connoisseur: COUPLES PAINTING CLASS: 7 p.m. Dec. 5. Take a break from the southeast Louisiana that you Wednesday. Grab your signifi- hectic holidays for some good can do anything like this.” cant other and a bottle of wine company, a glass of wine and Festivities include hayrides great tunes. The event will for a couples painting lesson. through acres of vineyards, include a wine tasting and a Local artist Courtney Dusang tours of the winery and wine live performance by local jazz will give participants steptastings for guests 21 and vocalist Kristina Morales. by-step directions to paint a older. streetcar. The class is $35 per This is a quarterly event for The family-friendly event Pontchartrain Vineyard Wine person, and reservations are also will include horseback required. Participants must be Club members, but it is open riding hosted by the LSU to the public. Call (985) 89221 or older to drink. Painting Equestrian Team, an appearwith a Twist, 2132 Gause Blvd. 9742 for more information. ance by Santa Claus, food Pontchartrain Vineyards, E., Slidell. trucks and a performance by 81250 Old Military Road, FREE FRIDAY WINE TASTING: 4:30 local band Christian Serpas p.m. Friday. Brush up on your Bush. and Ghost Town. WINERY VISIT: Enjoy a classic wine trivia or discover a new Entry cost is a charitable donation of either $5 or a non- favorite vino at this free wine winery tour and wine tasting anytime between noon and 4 tasting held every Friday. perishable canned food item. p.m. Wednesday through SunMartin Wine Cellar, 2895 U.S. Proceeds will be donated to day. Pontchartrain Vineyards, 190, Mandeville. Second Harvest Food Bank in WINE AND SPIRIT TASTING: Noon 81250 Old Military Road, New Orleans. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Head to the Bush. Upcoming events for the
TAMMANY TO DO RUNNING TO FEED THE HUNGRY: 7 a.m. Thursday. Work off those Thanksgiving carbs at the fifth annual Thanksgiving Day 5K run or 2K walk. The fundraiser raises awareness about homelessness and the hungry in Slidell. The race is presented by the Mount Olive Feeding Ministry and will be led by Heath Allen, of WDSU Channel 6. Registration begins at 7 p.m., followed by the race warmup at 7:30 a.m. and the races at 8 a.m. Registration is $25 to $30 for adults and $10 for children 12 and younger. Visit www. mtoliverunningtofeedthehungry. com for more information or to register. John Slidell Park, 105 Robert Road, Slidell. NORTHSHORE TURKEY TROT: 7:30 a.m. Thursday. Give thanks on Thanksgiving with this 1-mile or 5K fun run. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., followed by the races at 8 a.m. For more information or sponsorship opportunities, call Elaine Lombardo at (504) 7152768. Terra Bella Town Square, 111 Terra Bella Blvd., Covington. CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday. Businesses throughout downtown Covington will host this holiday shopping event every Saturday until Christmas. Holiday shoppers can enjoy music from strolling musicians and carolers, as well as door prizes, refreshments, food and more. Visit www.covla.com for more information. Downtown Covington. ‘THE SNOW QUEEN’: 8 p.m. Friday. The volunteer cast performs Hans Christian Anderson’s timeless fairy tale about a wicked snow queen and her spell on the world. The cast includes Marcello Barbaro, Sarah Surla, Tiffany Christy, Hannah Diaz and Jake Blalock. The performance will run 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 13. Slidell Little Theatre, 2024 Nellie Drive, Slidell.
Photo by JUSTIN REDMEN
Sarah Surla plays the Snow Queen.
The ’80s rock cover band Supercharger performs Saturday at Ruby’s. From left, members are Steve Landon, Brian Easley, Brent Graham and Mike Schoultz. Photo provided by Supercharger SUPERCHARGER: 9:30 p.m. Saturday. The ’80s rock cover band performs at the local bar. There is a cover for this performance. Ruby’s Roadhouse, 840 Lamarque St., Mandeville. CAMELLIA CITY FARMERS MARKET CHRISTMAS ARTS AND CRAFTS BAZAAR: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. The weekly market will turn into a holiday shopping event this weekend with more than 35 local arts and crafts vendors. The market also will include vendors selling seasonal fruits, vegetables and more. Call (985) 640-7112 for more information. East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce, 1808 Front St., Slidell. HOLIDAY SHOPPING EXTRAVAGANZA: 9 a.m. Saturday. The twoday holiday market is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $5. Northshore Harbor Center, 100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell. CRAZY REINDEER PAINTING CLASS: 7 p.m. Saturday. Get into the Christmas spirit as local artist Jane Schauer gives participants step-by-step directions to paint a funny Christmas reindeer. The class is $35 per person, and reservations are required. Painting with a Twist, 2121 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville. ‘VANYA AND SONIA AND MASHA AND SPIKE’ AUDITIONS: 11 a.m. Sunday. Auditions for the upcoming award-winning performance about two middle-aged sisters who share a home until their famous sister and her boyfriend drop in. Courtney Calato will direct. Show dates are Feb. 12-28. Email 30byNinety@gmail.com to audition. 30 by Ninety Theatre, 880 Lafayette St., Mandeville. LOCAL CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT: 1 p.m. Monday. Learn how to create unique holiday ornaments from pinecones and oyster shells to add a Southern twist to the Christmas holiday. An additional class will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday. This class is free, but registration is required. Call (985) 626-7997 to register. Pelican Park Castine Center, 63350 Pelican Drive, Mandeville. NOLA ACRYLIC PAINT CLASS: 6 p.m. Monday. Participants can learn how to paint a New
Orleans-themed picture using acrylic paint. An additional class will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday. Attendees must bring an 8-by10-inch canvas and are asked to bring paint brushes and other art supplies if possible. Free, but registration is required. Call (985) 626-7997. Pelican Park Castine Center, 63350 Pelican Drive, Mandeville. ‘PRIDE AND PREJUDICE’ AUDITIONS: 7 p.m. Sunday and Monday. Audition for the performance based on Jane Austen’s classic 1813 novel. Laura Mauffray Borchert will diBorchert rect. Show dates are Jan. 15-31. Visit www.slidelllittletheatre. org for more information. Slidell Little Theatre, 2024 Nellie Drive, Slidell. WEEKLY EVENTS MANDEVILLE BINGO: 9 a.m. Friday. The weekly bingo game is hosted by the Mandeville New Image Senior Club. The group also meets at 1 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. Call (504) 442-1644 for more information. Mandeville Civic Center, 3090 E. Causeway Approach. COVINGTON FARMERS MARKET: 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays. The market includes fresh seasonal produce, baked goods, plants and more. Covington City Hall, 609 N. Columbia St. The market is also held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays at the Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St. MANDEVILLE TRAILHEAD COMMUNITY MARKET: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. The market includes local food, fresh produce, live music, arts and crafts and more. Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St. ABITA SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET: Noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. The market includes fresh produce, local food, crafts and more. Abita Springs Trailhead, 22056 La. 59.
Submit events by emailing tammanytracker@gmail.com.
Maggie Richardson, 7, of New Orleans, braves her first horseback ride at Pontchartrain Vineyards’ annual Holiday’n the Vines festival.
10G F Thursday, November 26, 2015 F theneworleansadvocate.com F The Advocate
Zoe Surrette cares for the animals, in this case her fluffy Aristocats kitty.
PROGRESS
Continued from page 1G even kindergartners can relate to â&#x20AC;&#x201D; helped Farris bring history to life. The day after their â&#x20AC;&#x153;voyage,â&#x20AC;? the kids got the other side of the story. They dressed as Native Americans, and parent volunteers dressed as Pilgrims served them a feast. After the real Pilgrims finally arrived at whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s now Cape Cod, the winter was harsh. Nearly half of them died. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why they were so thankful to the Wampanaog Indians for teachAdvocate staff photos by SCOTT THRELKELD ing them about planting corn, Kindergartners listen to the story of the Mayflower during â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Pilgrimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Voyageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at Pontchartrain Elementary in Mandeville. Kindergarten teacher Amanda fishing, hunting and trapping, Farris said. Now the kids can Farris, playing Mayflower Capt. Christopher Jones, left, and her mother, Cheryl Farris, playing John Carver, a Mayflower passenger and the first governor of better relate to the holidayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Plymouth Colony, right, took students dressed as Pilgrims on the imaginary trip. message of gratitude, too.
Kindergartner Pilgrims Hudson Sortor, left, Noah Linden, GrifBrynne Lomasney combats fin Robbins and Luke Wonderlich laugh during a storm aboard Mattox McKenzie eats a Kindergartner Baylee Castleberry brings a cooking pot with her aboard the Mayflower. cracker. the Mayflower during â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Pilgrimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Voyage.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; uncomfortable conditions.
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