For over 17 years, Metairie Bank has brought its tradition of exceptional Personal Service and Stability to the Northshore. We are excited to announce the opening of our newest Covington location at 70496 Hwy 21 (on the corner of Hwy 21 and Zinnia Dr.).
RYAN MONICA
Assistant Vice President, Sales Manager
HANNA MILLER
Banking O cer, Branch Operations Manager PAUL
Northshore Market President
Welcome to the latest edition of Edge of the Lake magazine! Our community is bustling with exciting events and inspiring stories as we embrace the transition from summer to fall.
In this issue, we begin with a preview of the upcoming high school football season. Get ready for thrilling games, fierce rivalries, and the undeniable energy that Friday night lights bring to our town. Our in-depth coverage will give you insights into the teams, key players, and what to watch for as the season unfolds.
We are also honored to feature the incredible philanthropic work of Steve Tujague. His generous donations to the Children’s Advocacy Center-Hope House have made a significant impact, providing essential support and resources to those in need. Steve’s dedication to giving back exemplifies the spirit of our community.
Additionally, don’t miss our feature from LSU’s Agriculture Department on the importance of pine trees in our region. This insightful article highlights their environmental benefits and showcases their vital role in our local ecosystem.
Finally, join us in celebrating the 10-year anniversary of The Southern Hotel. This landmark event was marked by an unforgettable celebration, blending elegance and Southern charm. The hotel has been a cornerstone of hospitality in our community, and its long legacy is a testament to its excellence.
Thank you for being a part of the Edge of the Lake magazine family. We hope this issue inspires you and deepens your connection to our vibrant community.
PUBLISHER
Cover Photos by Eric McVicker
Eric McVicker
FIND A PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN YOU CAN TRUST
Sometimes it’s not who you know, but who knows you. At St. Tammany Health System, the primary focus of our primary care physicians is you.
You’ll have your choice of MANY internists, family physicians and general practitioners who not only know medicine, but who take time to really get to know you.
Same-day primary care appointments available.
NORTHSHORE MEDIA GROUP NM
We are looking for local business and professional leaders who have achieved success and excellence in their field or shown amazing potential at an early stage of their career. Nominees must be under 40 when nominated and live and work on the Northshore. Beginning on August 1st, Northshore Media Group will be accepting nominations for our 2024 Forty under 40 awards. To nominate someone go to northshoremedia.net and fill out the nomination form. Nominations end September 1st. Winners will be notified in early October and the winners will be featured in our December/January issue of EDGE of the Lake magazine.
A PARTNERSHIP
22,
On June
2023, Ochsner Health and MD Anderson announces the partnership at the St. Tammany Cancer
IN THE MAKING!
TSTORY MIKE SCOTT
he pomp and circumstance were both considerable and understandable.
On June 22, 2023, Ochsner Health and MD Anderson Cancer Center announced a partnership to create Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center in southeastern Louisiana, a fully integrated cancer program that includes Covington’s St. Tammany Cancer Center – A Campus of Ochsner Medical Center.
There were speeches. There were streamers. There was a shiny new sign on the building’s exterior.
But all you really had to do to gauge the magnitude of the news was to look at the faces of those Northshore healthcare leaders gathered at the cancer center for the announcement.
They weren’t just smiling. They were beaming. Ear-to-ear stuff.
That’s because of what the new partnership promised: access for residents to leading-edge care based on the same protocols and practice standards as MD Anderson in Houston.
“This collaboration is a notable milestone in our partnership with Ochsner that will only strengthen and deepen our integrated, holistic approach to providing cancer care,” said Joan Coffman, president and CEO of St. Tammany Health System, which has been operating the cancer center jointly with Ochsner since the $50 million facility’s opening in 2021.
Dr. Suma Satti, vice chair of hematology/oncology at St. Tammany Cancer Center, put an even finer point on the partnership saying: “Literally, if Northshore residents want to get treated for their cancer, they should come here,” she said. “I’m not saying it because I work here but because there’s no other way to do oncology care. There’s just no other way.”
A year into the partnership, it is already delivering on those Day 1 promises, and then some.
The improved access to the most up-to-date cancer care for local patients is the all-caps headline, of course. But St. Tammany Cancer Center is about much, much more than that.
With a holistic, patient-centric approach, Ochsner MD Anderson’s expert team provides comprehensive care to patients. A multidisciplinary team of doctors, clinicians and support specialists offers services to treat the entire person. Support professionals include nutritionists, nurse navigators, social workers, physical therapists, acupuncturists and others.
Our integrated multi-disciplinary teams are not only focused on treating a patient’s disease but on caring for the whole person. To achieve that, cancer center leaders have made it a point to leverage community partnerships on behalf of the center’s patients.
That starts with the multitude of physicians from throughout the community, representing a wide array of specialties, who lend their expertise to the cancer center every day.
Our teams seamlessly work together through integration retreats aligning on procedures and protocols and nearly 200 peer-to-peer consults, including more than 30 at St. Tammany Cancer Center, in which doctors from both institutions discuss a case, assisting the treating doctor in defining the care plan for their patient.
The partnership has also delivered educational opportunities for those same doctors on some of the latest cancer treatments. That included a visit to Covington in May by MD Anderson’s Dr. Sairah Ahmed, who shared a presentation on chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy, or CAR T-cell therapy, an innovative treatment for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.
It’s not just the doctors who are upping their game, either.
The Northshore Food Bank, for example, plays a crucial role in supporting the cancer center’s therapeutic food pantry, which – in acknowledgment of the importance of proper nutrition during treatment – is staffed by dietitians who help ensure patients have ready access to the food they need.
Then there’s Healthier Northshore consortium, a coalition of local community stakeholders dedicated to improving local health metrics – and which hosts regular cooking demonstrations at the cancer center and other locations at which local chefs share their favorite healthful recipes.
(Those who attend all leave with a box containing the ingredients to re-create the meal at home, provided with support from the American Heart Association in partnership with residents and businesses.)
There is also a wig boutique. Diagnosed cancer center patients can also sign up for free classes on yoga, tai-chi, meditation, music therapy and more.
“When done well, cancer care is a team sport,” cancer center Administrator Jack Khashou said in describing the center’s ethos.
Those aren’t simply words, either. Patients feel it, and they’re not shy about expressing it.
That was evident recently at the cancer center’s annual
Patient Appreciation Day, a twin celebration of determination and compassion held this past June with support from more than a dozen community partners.
“I’m grateful to be here,” said blues musician Amedee Frederick, a five-year pancreatic cancer patient whose family band provided the music for the day. “What a wonderful staff. I can’t say enough about the staff and all the doctors. This whole thing is about surviving and carrying on and living a good, productive life. So, thank you.”
That is music to the ears of care providers at every level of the cancer center operation.
“It brings complete cutting-edge cancer care to the Northshore,” said Dr. Satti said. “We had already been doing much of it for some time. We’ve been following the multidisciplinary approach, for example. We already had a robust clinical trial program. But with the Ochsner MD Anderson partnership, we now have access to more clinical trials, more access to cutting-edge knowledge, access to MD Anderson’s protocols and practice standards.
“It’s complete integration, and that’s the best thing for our patients.”
For more information or to schedule a new patient visit, NorthshoreCancerCare.org or call 985-249-2383.
Cynthia Ledet, an Ochsner MD Anderson patient, discusses her treatment plan with her provider.
Mike Cooper
St. Tammany Parish President
The high humidity and sweltering sun of Summer have transitioned into the “slightly” cooler days of Fall. This season brings new opportunities as we send our children back to class, start a new football season and gather at community events that greatly support St. Tammany.
During this transitional season, rest assured that your parish government is continuing at full speed to ensure a better tomorrow for all of our communities.
One of the most critical accomplishments of my administration is enhancing potable water infrastructure. I’m proud to share that the first phase of the largest water infrastructure project in our Parish’s history is well underway in Cross Gates in Slidell. Two new water towers, six miles of new water main and more will help us continue to provide safe drinking water for 8,100 residents.
We will continue to focus on St. Tammany Parish as one cohesive community! We are expanding Goodbee’s wastewater treatment plant to better meet the needs of the growing community. We are also working closely with the town of Abita Springs to improve drainage, provide sidewalks and enhance two miles of Level Street.
As Parish President, one of the endeavors that was nearest to my heart was improving the workplace culture at St. Tammany Parish Government. Everyone deserves to work in a place where they are appreciated. I am so proud to share that St. Tammany Parish Government was named one of the Greater New Orleans areas Top Workplaces, an honor based solely on employee feedback. Our camaraderie is second to none and this is so important when it comes to preserving the quality of life for our community.
As transparency will always be a pillar of my administration, I encourage you to email me at President@STPGov.org if you have any questions.
Serving as your Parish President continues to be one of my most humbling honors.
On July 1, I was sworn in for my third term as sheriff for St. Tammany Parish. I am humbled and honored to have been elected once again to serve as your sheriff and to lead one of the best law enforcement agencies not only in the state but in the nation. Thank you to the people of St. Tammany for their confidence and their continued support.
Keeping crime rates down is a partnership between law enforcement and the community we serve, and we are blessed to live and serve in an area that respects, appreciates and works with law enforcement.
Since its inception in 1812, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs’ Office has evolved to meet the changing needs of our parish, growing from a small, rural law enforcement entity to the modern, well-equipped agency that it is today.
Under my leadership I have continued to grow the agency, adding patrol districts, establishing more centrally located district stations and hiring more deputies to improve visibility and response times.
The number one concern in any poll that I have ever ran is public safety. We are next door one of the most dangerous cities in the country. But, here in St. Tammany we continue to boast a very low crime rate and a very impressive solve rate. That is greatly due to the men and women who work for our agency. In St. Tammany, we have some of the finest, most professional and best trained law enforcement officers in the country.
My biggest concern right now in our parish is the amount of fentanyl overdoses we are seeing. In order to combat this epidemic, we are working with our local, state and federal partners to identify the supply chains as well as the local dealers in our area. And I am proud to say we are making arrests and taking large amounts of this deadly drug off the streets.
We will continue to hold criminals accountable and fight to keep you and your families safe.
I am proud to be your sheriff and I look forward to four more years of serving the citizens of St. Tammany.
Randy Smith St. Tammany Sheriff
STILL FANFARE After All These Years
STORY DONNA GAY ANDERSON AND JIM WINTER
In 1985, Harriet Vogt was teaching vocal performance in the Music Department at Southeastern Louisiana University. Out of fiscal urgency, the university was discontinuing its football program and the semester seemed quieter with less excitement in the air. Ms. Vogt and some of her colleagues pontificated that without football, there would be an absence of excitement that came with a semester filled with games.
Considering that, Vogt and her colleagues, Karen White and Roy Blackwood, pondered what they could do to enhance the academic and cultural landscape at Southeastern in the fall. Together, they proposed to the administration that an annual arts festival be developed; one that would stimulate creativity, curiosity, and engagement while instilling fresh pride in Southeastern. They took the idea to University President G. Warren Smith along with a budget proposal and examples of other similar festivals.
The university enthusiastically embraced the concept and gave Ms. Vogt and her colleagues a green light. The festival was to be called Fanfare. It would take place each October for the entire month and would feature public performances by university ensembles and notable international artists.
Many of these artists would also participate in education outreach events for students from Southeastern and the surrounding region. Initially, Vogt, White, and Blackwood collectively administered Fanfare along with faculty member Larry Gray. Then, Ms. Vogt was named as the first Artistic Director. For just under 15 years, she led the charge to bring a plethora of artistic and intellectual offerings to the area. Any given October might bring over 100 presentations. Excitement was again in the air.
When Vogt retired in 1999, Donna Gay Anderson was hired to fill her position. During Anderson’s tenure, the university acquired and refurbished Hammond’s Historic Downtown Columbia Theatre so that vibrant arts presentations could grow and thrive perpetually, even when Fanfare had concluded for the year. Thanks to the perseverance of University President Sally Clausen, Ms. Vogt, and Downtown Development Director Marguerite Walter, Senator John Hainkel’s support was secured. Hainkel obtained state funding to launch the endeavor.
The Fanfare staff of three soon evolved into the Columbia Theatre for the Performing
Arts staff of five plus supplemental positions.
A year-round main stage season was enhanced with performances by local talent of all ages. The Columbia regularly presented shows by a variety of notable ensembles and individuals such as Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Lou Rawls, Greg Allman, The Pointer Sisters, and The Aquila Theatre. The Columbia Theatre became the jewel in the crown of Southeastern, and Downtown Hammond flourished with it as a cultural and economic anchor.
After almost eleven years in the position of Artistic Director, Anderson departed and Dr. Ken Bolton briefly served as Interim Director before Roy Blackwood took the Director’s chair, operating the Columbia Theatre and Fanfare in the tradition of excellence.
Reduced funding, the pandemic, Hurricane Ida, and budget cuts have impacted what Fanfare is presently compared to what it once was. Current Artistic Director, Jim Winter, has been working very closely with Southeastern Louisiana University President Dr. William Wainwright to keep Fanfare’s spotlight shining brightly.
Fanfare 2024 promises to be truly spectacular as Southeastern Louisiana University begins a year-long
Centennial celebration. This fall’s Fanfare highlights at the Columbia Theatre include, Hey! Ho! Let’s Go: 50 Years of CBGB, a concert celebrating one of the most famous music clubs in the history of New York City; the Jefferson Performing Arts Society’s touring production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s School of Rock, and local radio favorites Johnny Chauvin and TJ Maggio heading up an all-star cast that will recreate the historic 1938 War of the Worlds radio broadcast live from the Columbia’s Hainkel Hall. On Southeastern’s campus, Dr. William Robison and Dr. Joseph Burns will headline Fanfare’s annual lecture series.
The 2024 Fanfare events will extend beyond Southeastern’s campus and the Columbia Theatre’s walls. At Reimer’s Auditorium in Downtown Hammond, Southeastern Theatre will present Clybourne Park, winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Play. With new events being added daily, Fanfare 2024 promises to be an incredible celebration of the arts! Visit columbiatheatre.org or call (985) 549-ARTS for the most up-to-date Fanfare listings and to purchase tickets.
2024 - 2025 Columbia Theater Season
March On! presented by Northlake Community Band
AUGUST 6
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
AUGUST 9
Southern Summer of Love: A Tribute to Woodstock presented by Will Vance & the Kinfolk and Friends
AUGUST 17
Blood on Yellowstone: A Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre
SEPTEMBER 12-14
Hey! Ho! Let’s Go: 50 Years of CBGB presented by Splendid Failure and Friends
SEPTEMBER 20
School of Rock presented by JPAS
SEPTEMBER 27
The War of the Worlds: A Live Radio Drama
OCTOBER 4
2nd Annual Southeastern Alumni Dance Concert
OCTOBER 6
Pulp Fiction
OCTOBER 16
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
OCTOBER 18
Clue
NOVEMBER 15, 16, 22, 23
Columbia Theatre’s 4th Annual Holiday Extravaganza featuring: Southeastern’s Big Band Christmas Concert
DECEMBER 5
The Muppet Christmas Carol
DECEMBER 6
The Nutcracker presented by the Hammond Ballet Company
DECEMBER 13,14,15
Jamming in Hammond Sessions presented by Will Vance & the Kinfolk + Byron Daniel and the Five Dead Dogs presents FEBRUARY 7
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee presented in partnership with SLU Theatre & the SLU Department of Music and Performing Arts
MARCH 21, 22, 28, 29
The Bill Evans Jazz Festival
APRIL 7-12
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace
MAY 4
* Schedules subject to change
STORY MIKE PERVEL NORTHSHORE MEDIA GROUP
ARCHBISHOP HANNAN HAWKS
Archbishop Hannan embarks on a new era with former interim Coach Steve Soper (39), getting the gig, replacing coach Corey Bordelon in week four. Soper enters his eighth season, originally serving as the DC, and is now focused on turning things around after a tough, winless season, battling numerous key injuries. “We must turn the page, putting that behind us. Coaching continuity is important in high school, and we’ve retained and hired quality coaches. Our dedicated staff works as one, doing what’s best for our kids,” Soper said. Fourteen SRs. lead the way, returning five offensive starters and six defensively. Sr. QB Brody Smith, a smart, hard-nosed player, returns with Soper as his OC. Sr. Hayden Alonzo is the top target. Sr. Brennan Obey’s production (1,509 yds/15 TDs), must be replaced after transferring to Fontainebleau. So. Ryan Bordelon and Riley Jones are the lead backs. SRs. Luke Higgs and Reed Long, are returning threeyear starters. Tripp Arcement played both ways, but this season, Soper hopes to limit two-way players to just a couple, keeping his guys fresh. Soper hired Don Kelley to replace him as DC, coaching previously at Independence.
DATE TIME OPPONENT
Sept 6 7 PM (A) Northlake Christian
Sept 13 7 PM (A) Ascension Episcopal
Sept 20 7 PM Catholic of Pointe Coupee
Sept 27 7 PM (A) CCA
Oct 4 7 PM Saint Thomas Aquinas
Oct 11 7 PM (A) Pearl River
Oct 18 7 PM Loranger
Oct 25 - - - - BYE
Nov 1 7 PM (A) Lakeshore
Nov 8 7 PM Franklinton
BOGALUSA LUMBERJACKS
Bogalusa faces a big challenge, replacing QB Ashton Levi, the all-purpose, dual threat, who graduated. Fr. Deontae Ishman is the heir apparent to provide the offensive spark. Coach Cyril Crutchfield (25-10) in his fourth season, said despite his youth, he likes Ishman’s mental preparation and great work ethic. Crutchfield serves as the OC, while Vonte Owens returns, calling defensive signals. Blake McGehee handles WRs/DBs, coming over from Pine. Bogalusa (7-5, 3-1) closed the regular season with three straight district 7-3A wins, finishing second, losing to Amite, 16-8 with the No. 5 Lumberjacks, advancing to the quarterfinals. The 40-player roster includes just six SRs, with about half of the team, having zero varsity experience. “We expect to start 10-to-12 freshmen and sophomores, so youngsters must grow up quickly. We must put things together fast, identifying their strengths and weaknesses. It’ll be a challenge, but we’ve had a great summer, grinding it out, aiming to make the playoffs. Sr. WRs Dyron Jackson and Lance Jackson (no relation) join Jr. Jakyrn Brock (OL) starters returning on offense. The Jackson’s, who play both ways, return in the secondary, along with Sr. Joshua Cooley (DL).
DATE TIME OPPONENT
Sept 6 7 PM (A) Covington
Sept 12 7 PM S. Plaquemines
Sept 20 7 PM A) Salmen
Sept 27 - - - - Bye
Oct 4 7 PM (A) Liberty Magnet
Oct 10 7 PM (A) Amite
Oct 17 7 PM Sumner
Oct 25 7 PM Springfield
Nov 1 7 PM (A) Pine
Nov 8 7 PM Albany
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Covington | Mandeville
Slidell
Metairie
Greg Salter (66-56) enters his 12th year, wanting to re-establish the Lions in the revamped District 6-5A. The Lions 4-6 (3-4) in an injury-riddled campaign last season, have only missed the playoffs twice in the past eleven seasons. “We’re praying for a healthy season. We’ve made good off-season progress,” Salter said. Offensively, eight starters return, replacing three productive skill guys, Brandon Coakley, Justin Chatman and David Harris. New Sr. QB Caden Heck (CB/FS) with three picks, triggers the pro spread offense. Salter calls Heck, a dual-threat, savvy player. The O-line returns all five Sr. starters, averaging 257-pounds, anchored by massive LT Abrum Lewis (6-6, 320), joined by Juan Arenas, Landon Delatte, Cameron McCann and Ty Sevin. Jr. Kylen Williams (257 yards) averaged eight yards. Jr. wideouts Jiwaun Brock and Amari Smith have experience. Seven starters return in the base 4-2-5.
Sr. leader, Chase Blackwell (ILB), the club’s emotional, fiery leader, finished with 94 stops, despite missing a game, due to finger surgery. The secondary returns Sr. starters, Bobby Barkley with a team-high four interceptions, along with Jeremie Elzy and Ryan Jones, plus Jr. Alan Abdullah.
DATE TIME OPPONENT
Sept 6 7 PM Bogalusa
Sept 13 7 PM (A) Franklinton
Sept 20 7 PM Booker T Washington
Sept 27 7 PM Northshore
Oct 3 7 PM Fontainebleau
Oct 11 7 PM (A) Mandeville
Oct 18 7 PM (A) Slidell
Oct 25 7 PM (A) Hammond
Nov 1 7 PM Ponchatoula
Nov 8 7 PM Saint Paul’s
FONTAINEBLEAU BULLDOGS
Fontainebleau’s Johnny Kavanaugh enters his second season with 21 seniors. The Bulldogs built a 3-1 record, including a 35-34 Hammond home District 6-5A opening win, but then struggled, losing six in a row. Based on the LHSAA reorganization, Fontainebleau now competes in District 7-5A, with former district foes, Northshore and Slidell, along with Salmen up from Class 4A and Chalmette. “We want to make progress, building a more positive attitude, developing a tougher mental fortitude,” Kavanaugh said. Six starters return, three on each side. Sr. Sebastian Miller (First Team All-District WR/Second Team All State) joins Sr. Anglin Miller (FB) and Jr. Connor Tyson (WR). Sr. Brant Boada (MLB) along with Sr. Dominick Silvan-Owens (Honorable Mention LB), who moves to safety, rejoined by Jr. Semaj Whittine (Second Team All District CB). “They’re great leaders bringing the younger guys along.” Kavanaugh, the OC last season, named longtime assistant David Dragg and Rowland Skinner co-offensive coordinators. Sr. QB Drake Dichiara, the starter in week four, suffered a shoulder injury, reaggravating it in the spring. Sr. Brennan Obey (Hannan transfer), gained 1,509 yards rushing, tallying 15 TDs. Obey is a hard-willed, tough yardage runner.
Sept 6 7 PM
Sept 13 7 PM Madison
Sept 20 7 PM Peabody
Sept 27
Oct 3 7 PM (A) Covington
Oct
Oct
Oct
Nov
Nov
COVINGTON LIONS
FRANKLINTON DEMONS
Franklinton (3-7, 2-3) with Nick Saltaformaggio in his second year, with two state championships in 21 years, hopes to return the Demons to prominence like under now principal, Shane Smith. “I’m excited, expecting a playoff team, hoping to win close games we lost last year. It’s a rebuild year, but nothing significant. The kids know the system and summer lifting is working.” Twenty-one seniors, including four O-linemen, Beau Webb and Wyatt Seal (both highly recruited in state), with Easton Smith and Josh Wright, plus Jr. David Moore, are a formidable team strength. “Those guys have tremendous work ethic, playing together and are tough, physical dudes.” Sr. receivers, Conner Magee, described by Coach ‘Salt’ as the best player in the district, along with versatile Christian Young, are dynamic playmakers. Jr. QB Jacob Crane (started first 3 games) is back to run the power spread offense. Defense is led by Sr. LBs DJ Anders and Elisha Hart with SRs. Avery Brumfield and Skylar Williams in the secondary. “We had productive 7-on-7’s at SLU and Mandeville, competing against St. Paul’s three times,” Saltaformaggio added.
Hammond High Magnet School has continuity with Coach Dorsett Buckels (43) entering his fifth season (13-21), guiding the Tornadoes. Buckels hopes to improve (5-5, 2-5) in district 6-5A, which is realigned this season. Fourteen SRs. are the foundation, bringing back 12 starters, seven on offense and five on defense. “Even though we’re somewhat young, I feel we’ll have a successful season, if we can stay healthy. I’m excited about our coaching staff working extremely hard to bring out the best in our players. I like how the players are accepting the challenge to be great in all aspects of life,” Buckels said. “Our players need to accept the challenge of having a strong fourth quarter mentality, finishing games. Some keys for success are Commitment, Discipline, Toughness, Effort and TOR PRIDE.” Buckels highlighted his So. QB Terin Jones, a talented athlete, and Sr. Kenyatta Fleet (WR), counting on them to produce. They’ll both be able to display their athleticism, also seeing time in the secondary in certain game situations. The defensive front is the team’s strength and is solid, leaning on experienced SRs. Darius Servick (DT) and Melvin Wilson (DE).
DATE TIME OPPONENT
Sept 6 7 PM Amite
Sept 13 7 PM Covington
Sept 20 7 PM (A) Pine
Sept 27 7 PM Fontainebleau
Oct 3 7 PM (A) Sumner
Oct 11 - - - - Bye
Oct 18 7 PM (A) Abbeville
Oct 25 7 PM (A) Pearl River
Nov 1 7 PM Loranger
Nov 8 7 PM (A) Archbishop Hannan
13
(A) Salmen Nov 8 7
(A) Ponchatoula
HAMMOND TORNADOES
LAKESHORE TITANS
Lakeshore third-year coach Brent Indest (15-8) boasts a sparkling 202-92 career record, with two state championships. Eighteen seniors look to improve last year’s 5-5, 4-1 record, and a first-round playoff loss to Deridder. “We have three specific areas we must improve on; after getting killed in the turnover battle, especially in the red zone, giving up too many 20-plus yard plays, and not pressuring the QB enough,” Indest stated. Lakeshore hired Cory Brodie (31), former Kaplan High head coach, as the DC, calling signals in the base 3-4 scheme. “He’s got the experience, so I’m handing the defense over, and we’ll be an aggressive unit.” Sr. QB Beau Bernard, one of six returning starters, runs the Wing-T, now operating from shotgun, hoping for increased production. Indest starts a few two-way players, led by SRs. Kato Pichon (RB/CB) and Spencer Rodgers (TE/DE) along with JRs. Dylan Cusachs (RB/S), Kyle Gegenheimer (SE/CB), and Oudry Gros (RB/LB), the leading rusher with 881 yards and a team-high 13 TDs. Cusachs and Pichon combined for 1,031 rushing yards and six scores. Sr. Brody Welch (DE), finally healthy after battling injuries, bolsters the defense.
MANDEVILLE SKIPPERS
Last year Mandeville (9-5, 4-3) navigated a magical playoff run as a longshot, No. 21-seed, advancing to the Div. I non-select semifinals, before falling to No. 1 Ruston, 28-7, the eventual state champ. Skipper Craig Jones enters his third season, with continued staff continuity. Sr. Nate Sheppard (1st Team All State), is the ‘energizer’, drawing mounting high-level college offers, in his Sr. campaign. Sheppard, the complete package, gained 1,816 yds, amassing 32 TDs, adding 316 receiving yds/four scores. Incredibly, he tallied a TD on every eight touches. Jr. QB Ben Hendricks has blossomed since earning the starting job last season. Defensively, five talented starters return, aiding the offense, with takeaways, sparked by Sr. LBs Wyatt Hammant and Chase McCarthy. DC Zach Vicknair, in his third season, described them both as relentless, sure tacklers, flying to the ball. Sr. Mike White roams the secondary with So. Dylan Henry, expected to be an impact player. Sr. Marques Zenon is a fixture along the aggressive, quick D-line. Creighton Wilbanks, a Virginia Tech commit, provides deep field goalrange, consistent touchbacks on kickoffs, and delivers booming punts.
Sept 6 7 PM (A) Fontainebleau
Sept 13 7 PM Chalmette
Sept 20 7 PM (A) Northshore
Sept 27 - - - - BYE
Oct 3 7 PM Salmen
Oct 11 - - - - BYE
Oct 18 - - - - BYE
Oct 25 7 PM (A) Loranger
Nov 1 7 PM Archbishop Hannan
Nov 8 7 PM (A) Hahnville
Sept 6 7 PM (A) Salmen
Sept 13 7 PM Madison Prep
Sept 20 7 PM Carver Collegiate Academy
Sept 27 7 PM Slidell
Oct 3 7 PM (A) Northshore
Oct 11 7 PM Covington
Oct 18 7 PM Hammond
Oct 25 7 PM (A) Ponchatoula
Nov 1 7 PM Saint Paul’s
Nov 8 7 PM (A) Fontainebleau
NORTHLAKE CHRISTIAN WOLVERINES
Northlake Christian’s James Willis, a former sevenyear NFL vet, is excited about his group (7-2, 3-2), who opened last season with five wins. He’s starting this year with 12 SRs. JRs. Kam (Deuce) Casnave (1,338 yds/29TDs), converted 19 two-pt conversions and Jordan Willis (330 yds/4TDs), are the TD makers, described as ‘Thunder and Lightning’ by their coach. “They’re explosive and can score quickly. Kam pounds you down and Jordan changes the pace. Kam’s our featured back, but we must get Jordan more touches, for balance,” Willis said. Former assistant Joe Gilmore (OC) took a job in Alabama, replaced by cocoordinators, Dylan Cook and JD Dunaway. “We can win another district 7-2A title. We’re challenged early by a tough pre-district schedule, against 3A and 4A schools.” Offensively, eight starters return, but must replace two linemen. Sr. QB Luke LeBlanc passed for 764 yds with 3 TDs and 3 picks, in a run-oriented offense. Nine defensive returning starters are led by Sr. Lee Dauterive and second leading tackler Trace Crane. “The secondary is our strength. They play aggressive and are good tacklers in space.” Texas Sr. transfer Joseph Dottolo, adds secondary depth.
NORTHSHORE PANTHERS
Bobby Sanders in year four with the school, leans on 19 SRs and needing more consistency. He’ll be operating with a new-look coaching staff and moving over to district 7-5A. “I like the professional staff makeup, bringing out the best in the players. We’re replacing talented coaches, but bringing in multi-experienced guys, so we shouldn’t miss a beat,” Sanders said. Mike Mutin (LBs) replaces Austin Bellamy as DC, who was Sanders’ first hire. Jacob Karl runs the O-line, and Linn Standridge (Pearl River) handles OL/TE. Bruce Plummer (PJP II) takes over Joe Guyton’s secondary duties, who leaves football to focus on track. Northshore (6-6, 5-2) after starting 0-3, rebounded in district, surprising semi-finalist Mandeville 23-16, winning three straight in an up-and-down season. The 25th-seeded Panthers pulled off an opening round shocker, trimming No. 7 West Monroe, 9-7, before falling to No. 9 Walker, 28-2. Sanders, the OC, returns four starters. Sr. QB Donovan Weilbaecher, a two-year starter, is being challenged by So. JJ Gonzales. Sr. Ethan Hanrahan and So. Derek Weilbaecher return at WR with lineman Jayden Lang. Three returning defensive starters include SR. LBs Rogie Magee and Carson Malasovich and CB Brody Dukes.
Sept 6 4 PM Archbishop Hannan
Sept 13 7 PM Baton Rouge Episcopal
Sept 20 - - - - BYE
Sept 27 7 PM Lakeshore
Oct 4 7 PM Breaux Bridge
Oct 11 7 PM (A) Kenner Discovery
Oct 18 11AM Pope John Paul ll
Oct 25
Nov 1 7 PM St. Helena College
Nov 8 7 PM (A) Independence
F o o t b a l l S c h e d u l e
F o o t b a l l S c h e d u l e
august 30 vs. pine (jamboree) @ 5:30 pm
september
october
6 13 20 27 vs. Hannan @ episcopal br bye @ lakeshore @ 7pm @ 7pm @ 7pm 4 11 8 25 vs. breaux bridge @ kenner discovery vs pope john paul @ STA @ 7pm @ 7pm @ 7pm @ 7pm
november 1 8 vs. st. helena @ independence @ 7pm @ 7pm
Pearl River’s Eric Collins (10-10) moves into his third season, and continues to eagerly push forward, improving the program, based on hard work and disciplined play. Last year The Rebels (5-5, 2-3), made the playoffs (20th seed), falling to No. 13 Abbeville, 34-20 on the road. “We return numerous quality players, on both sides, so we’re expecting a solid season with another playoff appearance.” Collins said. John Lambert calls offensive signals with Jr. QB Brayden Hutchison taking over for Trey Turnage, who graduated. The Rebels have quality playmakers in SRs.
Tashod Badon (1,434 yds/13 TDs) plus Sean Jenkins (21 catches/4TDs), Nolan Singletary and Andrew Neal (TE). Four O-linemen return, including Hayden Mitchell, Jeff Ohler, Gavin Ruble and Joe Seghers with So. Jace Zeringue stepping in. Mike Bourg, the new DC, returns nine starters, led by Gage Durand, Phillip Huth, Cam Thibodaux and Sean Jenkins, a two-way performer. Sr. Blake Palmer makes a comeback after missing the season due to ACL surgery. Collins likes the D-line and secondary with veteran coach Tom Gainey, handling DBs.
PINE RAIDERS
Pine’s Bradley Seal (71-58) enters his 13th year, after producing a 10-3 mark. “We have high expectations and players have responded over the years. Our players are meeting those expectations, with success,” Seal said. The 60-man roster features 13 seniors. “The top end is talented and skilled, but we need depth. Our kids realize the importance of summer practice with 93% participation, committed to showing up. Six offensive starters return, led by Sr. OT Jackson Jones (6-7, 300) is a verbal commitment to TCU. “Jackson is a talented player, probably the best lineman I’ve had. He has excellent footwork and length.” Jr. QB Trey Knight (6-2, 180) runs the Wing-T, replacing four-year starter Luke Spears. Knight has a rocket for an arm and is more mobile, probably resulting in more runs. Peyton McDaniel, baseball assistant, now handles QBs. Sr. Von Johnson gained 889 yards with nine TDs and Jr. DJ Garrett caught 47 passes for 743 yds and seven scores. Seven returning starters provide solid experience led by Jr. LBs Caydn Stogner and Chris William joined by Jr. Lyrain Heart (DL) and Sr. Thomas Bernard (DB) in the 3-4 scheme.
Sept 6 7 PM St Martin’s Episcopal
Sept 13 7 PM South Lafourche
Sept 20 - - - - BYE
Sept 27 7 PM (A) Pine
Oct 4 7 PM Chalmette
Oct 11 7 PM Archbishop Hannan
Oct 18 - - - - BYE
Oct 25 7 PM Franklinton
Nov 1 7 PM (A) Pope John Paul II
Nov 8 7 PM (A) Loranger
DATE TIME OPPONENT
Sept 6 7 PM (A) St. Thomas Aquinas
Sept 12 7 PM (A) Independance
Sept 20 7 PM Franklinton
Sept 27 7 PM Pearl River
Oct 4 7 PM (A) Varnado
Oct 10 7 PM (A) Albany
Oct 17 7 PM Amite
Oct 25 7 PM (A) Sumner
Nov 1 7 PM Bogalusa
Nov 8 7 PM Springfield
PEARL RIVER REBELS
Get ready to RESET!
Ponchatoula named longtime assistant Tim Walters head coach, replacing Trey Willie, who accepted a Southeastern position. Walters joined the Green Wave in 2011 (DBs), becoming the DC and LBs coach in 2014. There are 28 seniors, but most have limited experience. “We can be competitive and hope to be balanced, but due to our lack of overall team experience, our new starters need to step in ready to go. Players have improved during summer workouts, participating in 7-on-7’s in Livingston Parish, rotating sites,” Walters said. The Wave (5-5, 3-4), battled on the road, falling to Chalmette, 35-28 in bi-district play. Sr. Brayden Perrin (WR), who replaced injured starting QB Bishop Davis against Chalmette, moves to permanent QB. Walters says Perrin makes good decisions and is an accurate passer. SRs. Cory Jackson (WR) and Shawn Puissegur (TE/H-Back) also return with JRs. Keith White (TE) and Jace Jackson (RB). The staff must replace the entire O-line. Three SRs. Jacoby Berry, Jacob Robinson and Anthony Vinnett lead the defense with Jr. Layton Bazile, adding experience. SRs. Gavin Giannobile and Titus Showers are quality kickers.
POPE JOHN PAUL II
Philip Pigott delivered a memorable season (8-3), winning eight consecutive games down the stretch, capturing district 7-2A. “I love this team’s approach and commitment. I’m confident we can have another competitive season, now that we’ve proven we can play at a high level,” Pigott said. Graduating only four SRs, nine experienced starters return on each side of the ball. Sr. QB Blaze Rodriguez (First Team AllDistrict), fully directs the Wing-T, passing for 602 yds and seven TDs, adding 266 yds rushing/10 scores. The stable of backs, features returning JRs. Dominik Smith (First Team) and Josh Greenwood (Second Team), a dynamic, one-two punch. Smith gained 1,460 yds/15 TDs and Greenwood logged 775 yds/10 scores, joined by Gus Pizza (WR), shifting to RB. Jr. Aiden Fairchild plays RB/S. SRs. Andrew Hoff and Kade Lacoste add receiving experience. Sr. Sean Smith (First Team) bolsters the front with JRs. Michael Thiel (First Team), Jax Dean (Second Team) and Colin (Corn) Kornrumpf. Two quality LBs, Allen Raimer and Mikey Strain, graduated. So. Joseph Sprinkle steps in, who gained valuable experience last year. Pigott hired Oscar Glasscock out of Alabama as the DC.
Sept
Sept
Sept 20
Sept 27
Oct 4 7 PM Independance
Oct
Oct
Oct
Nov
Nov 8
Sept
Nov 8
PONCHATOULA GREEN WAVE
Salmen steps up to Class 5A, competing in a newly formed district 7-5A, facing Fontain ebleau, Northshore, Slidell and Chalmette. Eric Chuter (29-28) fashioned an 8-2 regular season, capturing an elusive district 8-4A title (5-0), last year unseating Lakeshore, 21-14. The Spartans dialed up six straight wins, down the stretch, falling in the second round, and now having to replace the bulk of their offense, graduating Jacobi Jefferson (District MVP/1,916 yds/25 TDs) and Cam Dorsey (1,947 yds/14 TDs). “We’re embracing the move up and with 23 seniors, we’re ready for the 5A challenge, but we need to build depth across the board. Guys are stepping up, emerging as part time starters, and our skill players can hang with anybody,” Chuter said. Sr. QB Markel Keyes steps in, joined by five returning Sr. starters, WRs Kylen Fryson and Tayshawn Scott, and linemen, Adrian Ballard, Termaine Collins and Peyton Elder. The defense is solid, returning eight starters, but must replace District MVP Damon Narcisse. All four LBs return, SRs. Desmond Beasley, DeReyon Jenkins and Michael Welch, plus Jr. Jimmy Chanzy. The secondary, a team strength, features SRs. Kylen Fryson and Tayshawn Scott with Jr. Cameron Robinson. Sr. kicker Baha Barakat is a weapon.
DATE TIME OPPONENT
Sept 6 7 PM Mandeville
Sept 13 7 PM East Ascension
Sept 20 7 PM Bogalusa
Sept 27 7 PM (A) Liberty Magnet
Oct 3 7 PM (A) Lakeshore
Oct 11 7 PM (A) Northshore
Oct 18 7 PM Fontainebleau
Oct 25 7 PM Slidell
Nov 1 7 PM Hammond
Nov 8 7 PM (A) Chalmette
SLIDELL TIGERS
Slidell hired new head coach Damon Page in December, a former Bowling Green AD, replacing Malter Scobel. Page, a New Orleanian, is a 2004 Eleanor McMain Magnet School grad. “I want to establish our brand of football, playing with mental and physical toughness. Our kids need to be fearless and relentless, playing with aggression,” Page said. A former assistant coach and DC at North Crowly High near Ft. Worth, Page hired John Diarse, who he coached with in Texas, to run the offense. Philip Smith calls the 4-3 defense. The Tigers went 4-6, 3-4, despite winning three straight at one point. Slidell leaves district 6-5A, joining newly formed 7-5A, still playing former district foes, Fontainebleau and Northshore, adding Salmen and Chalmette. “We have 20 seniors, but we’re still a young team. The staff must get them prepared, to step up and contribute.” Sr. Ramelo Howard (WR) is the lone returning offensive starter. Jr. Rory Dominick and So. Ricky Williams, both dual threat guys, are competing at QB to run the up-tempo offense. Three returning defensive starters include SRs. Austin Buell, Isaiyah Gallien and Torey Kitchens.
DATE TIME OPPONENT
Sept 6 7 PM (A) Lutcher
Sept 13 7 PM LCA
Sept 20 7 PM Warren Easton
Sept 27 7 PM (A) Mandeville
Oct 4 7 PM (A) Hammond)
Oct 11 7 PM (A)Fontainebleau
Oct 18 7 PM Covington
Oct 25 7 PM (A) Salmen
Nov 1 7 PM Chalmette
Nov 8 7 PM Northshore
SALMEN SPARTANS
Get the Right Care, at the Right Place.
URGENT
EMERGENCY CARE
ST. PAUL’S WOLVES
Ken Sears (180-96) in his 35th season with the Wolves, welcomes 29 SRs, posting a 9-1 regular season last year. The only loss, Brother Martin (23-10) was week 2, before reeling off eight consecutive W’s, winning district 6-5A (7-0). “I hate to lose some of the great rivalries (Fontainebleau, Northshore and Slidell), we’ve had for 30 plus years in the new district. The upside is to schedule other schools, seeking more potential playoff power points,” Sears said. After a playoff bye, the Wolves knocked off Tioga, 38-14, falling to Rummel 35-21 in the quarters. “We return key starters with high expectations to defend our title and compete for a state championship. We’ve got tough competition for starting jobs, and need to replace a talented secondary group. Sr. QB Brennan Keim returns, 124-of-209 for 1,675 yards, with 10 TDs, but also threw 10 picks. Jr. Cody Corales gained 846 yds, averaging 5.2 with eight scores. SRs. Cale Daigle and Alex Mott anchor the defense along with Jr. Gage Brown. James Tryforos (former Skipper), coaches D-line and Jamar Mitchel (Tulane grad assistant) coaches DBs.
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS FALCONS
St. Thomas Aquinas (5-5) has named former assistant Tino Fletcher, the Falcons’ head coach, replacing Shane Mulhern, who resigned due to a family situation. He first joined the Falcons in 2019, coaching DBs (2-yrs), then two as DC, before departing in 2023, heading to Walker High. “I’m excited rejoining STA, now as head coach, finally getting the opportunity I dreamed about. “ Flectcher said. His goal is to build the program, making it sustainable for years. While filling out his coaching staff, he’ll serve as OC, running the Wing-T. “We want to avoid mistakes, focusing on ball control. We’ll be defensive-minded, stressing good special teams’ play. We want great teammates, good citizens, who make the right decisions.” The 39man roster has just six seniors. The QB front-runner is Jr. Chase Oalman, battling Jr. Carson Schanzbach. Sr. Chad Cusimano and So. Caden Lee are the top backs. Four O-linemen return, SRs. Landry Dawson, Ryan Jackson and Juan Triste plus Jr. Mason Craft. SRs. Dean Cusimano and Ross Perrilloux lead the five returning defensive starters, plus JRs. Evan Jump and Parker Roubique with So. Lorenzo Buckley. Fletcher says eighth-grader Lathan Hart (RB/S) will contribute.
Sept
Sept
Nov
Sept
Oct
Oct
Oct
Nov
Nov
A Night of
elegance & intrigue
Step back to the glamorous era of the Roaring Twenties, where elegance, sophistication, and a hint of danger await. Imagine an evening filled with the clinking of champagne glasses, the soft glow of vintage chandeliers, and the tantalizing mystery that unravels with every course. The Southern Hotel in Covington recently celebrated its 10th anniversary with a unique experience: a 1920s-themed seated winepaired dinner with an immersive murder mystery.
As guests arrived at the historic Southern Hotel, they were immediately transported to the opulent 1920s,
welcomed by the hostess and owner, Lisa Condrey Ward. Guests were encouraged to dress in their finest flapper dresses, feathered headbands, pinstripe suits, and fedoras, embracing the glitz and glamour of the Jazz Age. The evening began with welcome cocktails in the Hotel’s lobby, which had been rearranged to feature a musical quartet and bars featuring craft cocktails that helped set the tone for a night of indulgence.
The hotel’s ballroom was transformed into a scene from a Gatsby novel, with art deco decor, soft music playing in the background, and tables elegantly set with
fine china and crystal. The first course was served as guests found seats, accompanied by the first of many perfectly paired wines. The hotel’s executive chef, Alex Harrell, crafted each dish into a masterpiece.
As guests savored each course, the real excitement began. A murder has occurred, and it’s up to the guests to unravel the mystery. Professional actors mingling among the diners played key roles in the unfolding drama. Clues are revealed, secrets are whispered, and alliances are formed as guests worked together to piece together the puzzle.
Each table became a team of detectives, discussing
motives and alibis between bites of gourmet cuisine and sips of fine wine. The interaction with the actors makes the experience thrilling and immersive.
As the evening neared its end, the suspense peaked. You and your fellow guests submitted your theories, and the culprit was dramatically unmasked. Awards were bestowed upon the successful sleuths and the valiant but unsuccessful. The event was a resounding success, leaving everyone with a sense of fulfillment and a memorable experience to cherish.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a mystery enthusiast, this event didn’t disappoint. It was a unique fusion of elegance, intrigue, and indulgence—an unforgettable journey into a bygone era. It was an evening where culinary excellence meets thrilling entertainment, all set within the enchanting walls of the historic hotel.
Katie McConnell
Happy Anniversary to The Southern Hotel. We look forward to many more memorable evenings.
Katie McConnell
When it comes to patient safety, we make the grade!
For Our Lady of the Angels Hospital patients, a nationally recognized “A” grade in safety means peace of mind during some of your toughest health moments.
National healthcare watchdog organization The Leapfrog Group gave Angels an “A” grade for patient safety for Spring 2024. The rating is based on a peer review of more than 30 performance measures looking at the number of accidents, injuries, infections and errors in a hospital setting, as well as the efficiency of systems a hospital puts in place to prevent harm.
We understand how difficult it can be to put one foot in front of the other when going through your cancer therapies, but we continue to gain evidence to support how important movement is when undergoing treatments. As we like to say, exercise really does need to be that 4th pillar of treatment behind chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation Geaux Fight knows the evidence based guidelines to allow you to feel better.
electing to INSPIRE
A Chat With Councilman Joey Roberts
Okay, I’m going to level with you. I struggled mightily to write this introductory paragraph, and at first I couldn’t figure out why. After several attempts, I finally realized that I was having a problem with the word “politician” to describe the individual I recently interviewed. Thanks to many unfortunate highprofile examples throughout human history, that label often carries an ugly stigma that makes a lot of people automatically dubious of their motives and integrity. It just seemed like it would set the wrong tone, especially in this case.
Being a word nerd, I played around with other terms to describe elected officials and settled on “public servant.” It’s often used interchangeably with “politician,” but it really shouldn’t be. It should be reserved for those with genuinely altruistic intentions. So, that’s how I’ll introduce Covington City Councilman, Joey Roberts.
When I was asked to interview him, I began my preliminary research with no previous knowledge of or preconceived notions. I’d been told he’s a “good guy,” but what does that mean?
Joey’s biographical information and resume revealed that he was not what most would consider to be a typical politico. He doesn’t have a law degree or hail from a long line of lawmakers, nor is he particularly interested in party affiliations. His day job, so to speak, is serving as Executive Director of the St. Tammany Parish West branch of the YMCA, the revered non-profit organization that’s committed to strengthening communities around the globe by empowering young people. Before that, he worked as a coach and special needs teacher in the St. Tammany Parish Public Schools system. He also spent the first dozen years of his life in notoriously tough New Orleans East, at one point sharing a two-bedroom shotgun house with seven immediate and extended family members.
STORY LIZ GENEST SMITH
PHOTOS CASSIDY SHEA
My questions started writing themselves.
You really don’t have to wait too long to get a vivid first impression of Joey. From the very first words out of his mouth, he radiates a sunny disposition and is quick with a laugh. During our hour-and-a-half chat, we touched on everything from unexpected life transitions and challenges to personal philosophies, and he seamlessly injected words of wisdom like, “Healthy leads to happy leads to hopeful leads to helpful. Even if you’re not being directly helpful, you could be inspiring someone else by example.”
But he was never more animated and emotional than when he talked about his ongoing efforts to reach struggling tweens and teens.
“I’ll tell you what makes me nervous,” he offered up without prompting. “I recently spoke at Camp Bearable for kids around the ages of 7 to 12 who’ve lost somebody, and I asked them what they wanted to be when they grew up. They all raised their hands. When I ask the same question at junior high schools, no hands are raised. It freaks me out, and makes me emotional,” he said with a slight break in his voice. “The world changes as you grow up, and if you don’t feel like you’re a part of it, all you see is how easy it is to blame others and make excuses for yourself. I’m always trying to figure out where that disconnect comes from and what we can do as a society.”
It makes sense that he’s especially tuned in to this specific age bracket, as it’s exactly when Joey’s own life changed drastically. In order to get a fresh start in a safer environment, he, his mother and his brother moved to Abita Springs when Joey was about 13.
“First of all, I don’t want to give the impression that (my childhood in New Orleans East) was a dark and stormy time,” he said with a humble chuckle. “It was never horrible. We had tough times and it was not a great neighborhood, but I had grandparents that were good role models and I gained a certain understanding which eventually helped me become a good dad. It also created a contrast, so I was able to better appreciate life on the Northshore. I’m able to carry all those life lessons to this day.”
Life on the Northshore offered Joey new opportunities, including access to art in the same school system in which he would later teach. As a youngster in New Orleans East, he didn’t have formal art classes, but says he watched a lot of Bob Ross on television and practiced tracing and drawing the image of Garfield the comic book cat that was emblazoned on his favorite notebook. That informal “training” was enough to eventually earn him a spot in Covington High School’s gifted art program. While he didn’t pursue a career in art, it became a lifelong passion, an outlet for coping in difficult times and a way to share his perspective with others.
“I’ve been through a lot and seen a lot. I didn’t have therapy, but I had art and basketball.”
Obviously, things turned out well for Joey, but things could have gone very differently. He endured some difficult circumstances in childhood and had to start all over in a brand new town at a critical age. This seems like all the ingredients for a possible slew of bad, life-altering choices. So, what went right?
In addition to art and basketball, he credits “three or four people who saw something in me, cared about me and encouraged me.” Starting with his grandfather.
The world changes as you grow up, and if you don’t feel like you’re a part of it, all you see is how easy it is to blame others and make excuses for yourself.
Of him, Joey said, “He helped me understand something from a young age: If you do nothing, you become nothing.
If you do something, you can be something. He told me, ‘You can do anything you put your mind to.’ It sounds simple and cliche, but it really resonated with me and taught me there were no limits. Everyone needs someone to nudge them, to believe in them.”
He is also grateful for a stepfather figure in his life, who was instrumental in facilitating the move to the Northshore.
“Larry was the knight in shining armor in my life story. No Larry equals no new beginning. He passed away at 55 from cancer, seven years after entering our lives, but he was such a crucial part of my life that my son carries his name.”
The nudge to go into teaching in order to pay it forward and share his life lessons with students came from a totally unexpected source.
“I was working at PJ’s, chatting with everyone because it’s like a bar for sober people. And one day, a lady told me I’d be great with special needs kids. She wound up paying the $150 for me to get certified, and soon after, I was hired at Covington High School. She saw a value in me that I didn’t see in myself. It’s so important to recognize your own value.”
Joey went on to earn a degree from Southeastern Louisiana University, then returned to Covington with renewed determination to make a difference in kids’ lives.
“I taught a tough crowd and my goals were to earn their trust, get them to hear me and impart some life skills. I told them, ‘I can’t make you do homework, you have to decide to do this for yourself and decide not to let yourself down.’
And the grades actually went up. You can’t reach them all, but I like to encourage people to believe in themselves.”
Amid cutbacks and uncertainty in the public school system, Joey applied for a job at the YMCA in 2015, “as a plan B, just in case.” And wound up getting it.
“It was hard to leave the school system,” he admitted. “But this presented a similar opportunity, just with a bigger umbrella. I get to talk to schools, Kiwanis, rotaries, business owners. It’s given me more opportunities to promote hope and find ways to make things better.”
Thanks in part to a stellar team upon whom he heaps tons of credit, Joey flourished in this role and was able to break records by expanding YMCA membership and programs. So, why enter politics?
The next nudge came from late Covington City Councilman, Lee Alexius, who saw enough promise in Joey to suggest that he run for a vacant seat.
“At first, I laughed and said, ‘Never!’ But now, I get to act as a middle man between
city hall and citizens. It’s my job to figure out how the city can help people and how they can have their voices be heard.”
Joey gets enormous personal satisfaction out of getting approached on the street by parents whose children were positively impacted by his efforts and words of encouragement, but of course, the job is not without its challenges. As the old saying goes, “You can please some of the people all of the time, you can please all of the people some of the time, but you can’t please all of the people all of the time.” But, Joey’s learned to take it in stride.
“I don’t want to disappoint people and I don’t like saying no, so it helps if it’s justified. I just fight where I can.”
So, is this just the beginning of a career in government?
“I don’t aspire to be mayor or governor, but I don’t know what the future holds,” he admitted. “For now, I’m in the right place and my goal is to focus more on art.”
Ah yes, art. We definitely need to revisit this topic. Joey shared that a typical day consists of waking up, drawing, listening to music and drinking coffee before heading to work. So, art continues to play an intrinsic role in his life. Not only because he enjoys it and it helped him cope with childhood difficulties, but it was also crucial in getting him through some seriously dark days as an adult.
Beyond its therapeutic aspects, Joey’s art has been featured in St. Tammany Hospital Foundation’s Healing Arts Initiative gallery series, on The Bluesberry Festival’s official poster and now, a design he submitted has been chosen by the National Fitness Campaign, an initiative that’s bringing free, worldclass outdoor fitness to 1,000 communities around the country. As a result, a mural he dreamed up will soon be installed at Mandeville’s Koop Drive fitness area “to showcase the value and inspiration born from connecting the power of the arts with the joy of wellness.”
Sounds pretty on-brand for Joey, right? He’s living proof that, although we can’t choose the circumstances we’re born into or what life throws at us, we can choose how we react to it. Hardship and struggle could certainly justify becoming angry at the world, but like Joey, we can also choose to channel that experience into developing perspective, compassion and a desire to help others.
“It hit me when I first held my daughter,” he told me wistfully. “Like with art, we all start as a blank canvas. It’s up to each of us to create a masterpiece. Something we can be proud of and that will inspire others. That’s what keeps me going. Helping others find ways to create their own masterpiece.”
Jenny Mutter
Misty Break eld PA-C
Beth McLain NP
COMMUNITY LEADERS
I hope everyone is enjoying their summer! So far, it’s been hot and busy in the City of Slidell. We recently celebrated Independence Day with two big events, the Slidell Rotary Clubs’ Heritage Fest and the Olde Towne Merchant Association’s 4th of July Celebration. Both were great community celebrations with record attendance and the entertainment, food, and fireworks were enjoyed by all who attended!
The City of Slidell is planning another exciting season of events for the 2024/2025 cultural season, including Bayou Jam concerts in Heritage Park in the fall and spring, White Linen and Lagniappe and Arts Evening cultural events in Olde Towne Slidell, exhibits in the Slidell Cultural Center, and Christmas Under the Stars and the Holiday Golf Cart Parade this holiday season. All of these events are free to the public. A list of all the events can be found in this issue, or you can visit the City of Slidell’s website at MySlidell.com to see the calendar of events.
We are in the middle of yet another hurricane season, and I continue to ask our citizens to be prepared, have a plan, and stay informed. Team Slidell is working hard to make sure that the city is prepared. We are continually checking all the choke points, clearing waterways, and making sure that our pumps are ready and working should we need to use them.
To keep our citizens informed, we will post emergency information on our city website at MySlidell.com and on the “City of Slidell, Louisiana” Facebook page. These sites can be accessed from virtually anywhere via cell phones, laptops or tablets. Even if you have to evacuate, you can still get continuous news and updates about Slidell.
Robby Miller Tangipahoa Parish President
We are more than halfway through 2024, and already, we have so many things to celebrate here in Tangipahoa Parish! Not only is our economy holding tough as sales tax collections remain strong, but we are proud to announce we’ve just completed one of our best spring festival seasons ever. We hear it everywhere we go—Tangipahoa is on the move!
Our role in parish government is to help our people get where they want to go, and one way we do that is through our Tangi Transit bus system. This is a program we operate in partnership with the Tangipahoa Voluntary Council on Aging, and this summer, we added an extended route that runs from the Hammond city limits all the way north to the Independence Senior Center (the site of the old city hall building in Independence). This mid-parish route offers stops at several key locations between Hammond and LA 1063, including grocery stores, Tickfaw City Hall, and Lallie Kemp Medical Center. There are 18 stops on the route, and the bus stops at each site approximately every two hours. This is a reliable and convenient method of transportation for many of our residents, and the cost is just 50 cents one way per rider.
To learn more about this new bus route, check out the TangiTransit.org website. There, you’ll see the list of stops and a detailed schedule of when you can expect to board the bus at any of the locations on the route.
Moving into the second half of 2024, we have much to celebrate and much reason for optimism. Thank you for doing your part to make this the very best place to live, work and play!
Greg Cromer City of Slidell Mayor
The City of Slidell pres ents the 2024-2025 Cultural S eas on C alendar
Slidell Cultural Season Events
All events offer free admission.
White Linen and Lagniappe 2024
Saturday, August 3, 2024 • 6-9 pm • Olde Towne
Bayou Jam Fall 2024 Concert Series
Fridays • 6-8 pm • Heritage Park
September 13 - Big Al and the Heavyweights
September 28 - Typically Booked • October 11 - New Orleans Mysticks
Olde Towne Slidell Christmas Golf Cart Parade
Saturday, November 30, 2024 • 5 pm • Olde Towne
Christmas Under the Stars
December 6-7 & 13-14, 2024 • 6-9 pm • Griffith Park
Holiday Spectacular! with Vince Vance and the Valiants
Friday, December 13, 2024 • 6-8 pm • Heritage Park
Holiday Concert with the Northshore Community Orchestra
Thursday, December 19, 2024 • 6 pm • Slidell Auditorium
Bayou Jam Spring 2025 Concert Series
Fridays, 6-8 pm • Heritage Park
March 14 - Witness • March 21 - Soul Revival
March 28 - High School Band and Choir Showcase
Arts Evening 2025 Cultural Festival
Saturday, April 5, 2025 • 5-9 pm • Olde Towne
Some Enchanted Evening with the Northshore Community Orchestra
Sunday, May 11, 2025 • 6 pm • Heritage Park
“Cafe du Monde”
Adam Sambola, Poster Artist
White Linen and Lagniappe 2024
Slidell Cultural Center Exhibits
George Dunbar Gallery in Slidell City Hall • 2055 2nd Street in Olde Towne • Free Admission
Call (985) 646-4375 to schedule an appointment. Viewings available Monday - Thursday, 9 am - 3 pm
Revival: Celebrating the Art that Comes From Healing
Opening Reception: Friday, July 19, 6-8 pm
July 22 - Sept. 5, 2024
Mixed Media 2024 Juried Exhibition
Opening Reception: Friday, Sept. 20, 6-8 pm
September 23 - October 24, 2024 (985) 646-4375
Winter 2024 Exhibition
November 12 - December 19, 2024
Salad Days 2025 Exhibition of Student Art
Opening Reception: Friday, Feb. 21, 6-8 pm
February 25 - April 4, 2025
Spring 2025 Exhibition May 5 - June 26, 2025
YELLOW PINES OF ST. TAMMANY PARISH
STORY WILLIAM AFTON
LSU AGCENTER COUNTY AGENT
PHOTOS NANCY HALE
Prior to European involvement, the North American landscape looked slightly different than what we think of in present day. The southeastern United States including Louisiana and St. Tammany Parish, was dominated by a 60 million acre virgin longleaf pine forest referred to as the southern conifer forest within the southeastern coastal plain. The massive longleaf pine trees stood tall amongst a sea of grasses that stretched from eastward East Texas across to Florida and northward to the southeastern tip of Virginia. Longleaf pine, Pinus palustris, was the dominant tree species, but there are four other species of Pinus that still grow in the region today. We refer to them collectively as southern yellow pines.
Experts use visual observations to identify plant species. When it comes to pine trees there are several observations that can be made. The leaves of a pine tree are referred to as needles and those needles are bundled together in a fascicle. The number of needles in a fascicle and the average length of the needles is species specific. The seed-bearing organ on a pine tree is known as a cone and each species produces different sized cones. Don’t forget about tree bark either. As pine trees mature, the bark takes on a characteristic appearance and can be used to help determine the species.
The five yellow pine trees native to St Tammany Parish are longleaf, slash, loblolly, shortleaf, and spruce pine.
LEAVES CONE BARK
3 needles per fascicle, 4-9 inches in length.
Medium to small at 3-6 inches long with a grayish brown color.
Scaly and platy textures with a dark color on young trees and more of a cinnamon color on mature trees.
LEAVES CONE BARK
3 needles in a fascicle, 8-18 inches in length. Largest at 6-10 inches long with a dull reddish-brown color. Orange-brown and scaly turning platy with age.
LEAVES CONE BARK
2-3 needles per fascicle, 3-5 inches in length.
Small at 1.5 – 2.5 inches long and grayish brown in color.
Platy texture and reddish brown in color on mature trees with resin ducts clearly visible.
LEAVES CONE BARK
2-3 needles per fascicle, 4-10 inches in length.
Medium to large averaging 6 inches long with a beautiful chocolate brown, waxy color.
Platy on mature trees with orange colored inner bark exposed when outer layers slough off.
LEAVES CONE BARK
2 needles per fascicle at 4 inches in length.
Small at 2-3,5 inches long and brown in color.
Dark gray in color and hardwoodlike texture. Very different than other pines.
Shortleaf pine (P. echinata)
Longleaf pine (P. palustris)
Loblolly pine (P. taeda)
Slash pine (P. elliotii)
Spruce pine (P. glabra)
Ecologists call the longleaf pine tree a fire climax species because its dominance in the southern conifer forest is believed to be because of fire. You see, longleaf pine trees are fire resistant. Regular fires would move through the region both naturally (lightning strikes) or assisted by humans (hunting techniques by indigenous peoples). These fires would kill competing plants, allowing the longleaf pine trees to grow tall and take over the primary canopy. The other pine tree species carved out niches for themselves. Loblolly pine trees grow very fast so they can take advantage of sunlight when a large tree goes down. It’s the number one pine species currently used in the forestry industry. Slash pine populated lower areas that drained slowly and held water. Shortleaf pine could be found amongst long leaf pine as it is somewhat fire resistant as well. Spruce pine is considered the most shade tolerant of all and was found growing in bottomland hardwood forests along the coastal portion of the region.
As European settlers arrived in the area and began to settle, the virgin stands of longleaf pine were cut down and harvested for their lumber and other related products like pitch and tar. The landscape was changed forever. However, you can still find longleaf pine and all of the other southern yellow pine tree species throughout the region. Next time you come across a pine tree, grab some fascicles and start counting needles. Measure to determine the average length. Look around for any fallen pinecones to describe. Use the data collected along with this article or a plant identification book and see if you can determine the species of pine tree.
Jesus’ giving in name
STORY SARAH FEDERER
PHOTOS HOPE HOUSE & IJN FOUNDATION
For more than a decade, Northshore businessman and philanthropist Steve Tujague has generously given food, supplies and financial support to local nonprofits serving individuals in need, particularly children. Never wishing for personal acknowledgment or praise, he always gives his gifts “In Jesus’ Name.” This summer, however, Tujague’s generosity toward child abuse and trafficking victims landed him in the national spotlight when he was invited to Washington D.C. to receive the “Community Philanthropy Leadership Award” at the 2024 National Children’s Alliance (NCA) Leadership Conference. Selected from numerous nominations across 1,100 Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs) nationwide, Tujague was one of only eight honorees at the event. The award gave him a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share a message of God’s love that he hopes will spread far beyond the boundaries of the Northshore.
Prior to focusing on his philanthropic efforts, Tujague enjoyed a successful, 30-year career working with the prestigious Boh Brothers family of companies. He eventually acquired and ran Boh Environmental, FPU Systems, which designed and constructed Department of Defense Command Centers and patented container systems for the military. He would grow it to become a highly successful, global business. Years later as Tujague stepped into retirement, he felt a greater calling to serve his community. He and his wife Lucy established The IJN Foundation (In Jesus’ Name) to empower organizations across Southeast Louisiana, focusing on initiatives such as child exploitation justice and recovery, human trafficking prevention, and mentorship programs.
“The Foundation’s primary focus is to honor God. That’s what it’s all about,” Tujague said. “We don’t want to write a check, take a picture, and hope it all works out. It’s not about that. It’s about being involved, being a part of the mission.”
Over the last seven years, Tujague contributed over $1.5 million to CACs across Louisiana. More than $1.15 million of that contribution was given to CAC - Hope House, the nonprofit providing hope, healing and justice for child abuse victims in St. Tammany and Washington parishes. Tujague was also instrumental in securing state legislative funding for all CACs in Louisiana. Prior to 2021, Louisiana was one of seven states in the country lacking state legislative support for CACs, despite being statutorily defined and mandated. Tujague worked with state legislators and provided a $300,000 contribution, dispersed to all Louisiana CACs, creating a public-private partnership that served as a catalyst for state funding.
“For nearly 30 years, state legislative funding was a dream for Louisiana’s CACs.” said Hope House Executive Director Thomas Mitchell. “Thanks to Mr. Tujague, that dream became a reality in 2020. This was an incredible victory for Louisiana, and it will help restore the childhood of thousands of child abuse victims. Mr. Tujague is truly a special, inspiring partner, and friend – not just of Hope House, but of CACs statewide.”
Tujague’s greatest involvement, however, has been within his home community on the Northshore. In 2018, during a time when Hope House faced significant financial hardships, Tujague changed the trajectory of the organization forever by pledging $150,000 in matching funds for every dollar raised in the organization’s signature annual fundraiser, Men Who Cook. This act of generosity would become a catalyst for Hope House’s growth and financial stability, rallying countless community members and stakeholders to take ownership of the recovery of local child abuse victims.
In 2019, with a combination of support from Tujague and the Crescent River Port Pilots, Hope House launched Play It Safe, an evidence-informed child abuse prevention training that is offered free of charge to local schools and organizations serving children. Since then, Hope House has trained more than 1,700 local children in body safety and abuse prevention. In 2020, Hope House expanded with a 1,250-sq-ft. renovation to increase its trauma counseling services thanks to a generous gift from Tujague’s foundation. Then in 2023, Tujague
provided financial support for Hope House to open a new, state-ofthe-art CAC in Bogalusa, one of Louisiana’s most impoverished cities. Additionally, with Tujague’s help, Hope House has strengthened its forensic medical programming, created robust vicarious trauma resources, increased staff retention programs, and empowered multidisciplinary partner agencies such as law enforcement and the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services with advanced training in trauma-informed care and best practices in investigations.
“Mr. Tujague has truly left a generational legacy of hope on our organization – all in Jesus’ name,” said Thomas Mitchell, “Over the past 30-years, Hope House has served more than 7,000 child abuse victims, and more than 2,500 of those have been in the past seven years alone. The IJN Foundation has empowered us to expand and enhance our operations at a time when we needed it most. The impact is life-changing for countless children and families in this community.”
Although serving children is a primary focus, the IJN Foundation (In Jesus’ Name) has provided critical support for various nonprofits across the Greater New Orleans Region, including the Youth Service Bureau, Samaritan Center, Basket of Hope and more. Sometimes that support is in the form of a monetary or equipment donation. Other times, it’s more hands-on and involves the entire Tujague family.
One of Tujague’s longstanding initiatives is a food bag program, now called “Feed My Sheep,” which they started about eight years ago out of their home. The entire Tujague family takes part in it, including Steve’s young grandchildren. They recently teamed up with the Samaritan Center in Mandeville for distribution. Tujague said the program serves families who are in the gap.
“These people may not be able to get to the food bank or fill out the paperwork, and they don’t know which way to go. We supply emergency food bags for them, and on the bags it says ‘given in Jesus’ name,’” he said.
For years, the Tujague family has also provided backpacks and school supplies to children in need, working in cooperation with principals and counselors from schools around the Northshore.
“We want to let people know that God loves them,” Tujague said, “God sees them, and they have hope. We bring something to them, whether it’s a bag of food or a school backpack, and let them know it’s going to be ok. We take that burden off of them. We’ve seen the results of that over and over. Years later, people will tell us, ‘you had no idea what that meant to me at that time.”
In the past, Tujague wanted to remain an anonymous philanthropist, but as the impact and scope of his giving grew, so too did his influence. Now, as others are starting to take notice, Tujague has a message for anyone that wants to make a difference in their community:
“Make a decision with your free will to glorify God by giving something big or small” Tujague said, “Whether it’s a monetary donation, a backpack, or a can of beans for the local food bank, when you give a gift in Jesus’ name, it changes things. God gives each of us an ability, but we are limited on our own. When you bring God into it, though, all things are possible.”
Attorney Gordon McKernan
GREAUX PURPLE, BEE GOLD
Tucked away in the northwest corner of St. Tammany Parish, Folsom is a quiet, unassuming little village surrounded by rolling hills and green pastures, but it also happens to have a few pretty unique claims to fame. It’s home to New Heights therapeutic equestrian center, Global Wildlife Center exotic animal preserve and safari, and as of about five years ago, the first commercial farm in Louisiana to grow the uber-popular superfood and darling of the dietary supplement world, elderberries.
Along with being a relatively rare cultivator of the nutrient-dense, deep purple berry, Cockeyed Farms is even more distinctive, thanks to its origins, meticulous methods of growing and processing its fruit and its leadership role in the Louisiana chapter of the Farmer Veterans Coalition.
There’s a lot to unpack there, so let’s get to it!
WHO RUNS COCKEYED FARMS, AND WHY?
Lauren and Brandon Breaux are the proud proprietors of this veteran-owned family farm, where they produce organic American elderberries (Sambucus canadensis), organic blueberries and honey. But this is not a path they ever expected to take.
Brandon was born and raised in Baton Rouge, graduated from LSU and moved to Texas where he became a marketing director for a land surveying company before starting his own company. At the age of 28, he decided to join the army, where he served for nine years and completed several deployments to include a year in Iraq as a helicopter pilot before returning to American soil. When he met his future wife in 2011, Lauren was a real estate agent in Lafayette and Brandon was a pilot stationed at Fort Polk, but Brandon started suffering from a litany of health problems soon thereafter.
STORY SARAH COTTRELL
PHOTOS JERRY COTTRELL
A Visit to Folsom’s Cockeyed Farms
Photo Abbie Bourgois
“It was January 23, 2012 at one a.m. on the dot when I woke up and felt like someone stuck an ice pick in my left eye,” he explained. “It didn’t go away for four and half months. It was eventually diagnosed as cluster headaches, then I started getting rashes and had multiple masses removed. The overall diagnosis was Gulf War Illness, so I’d been exposed to some nasty stuff and it opened Pandora’s Box.”
As a result, Brandon was permanently grounded from flying, so he transitioned into being the Director of Aviation Safety at Fort Polk. But when the 14 daily medications he’d been prescribed began diminishing his quality of life just as he and Lauren were starting a family, they figured it was time to consider a drastic change.
“Let’s become first generation farmers,” Lauren said with a laugh. “That was never on our bingo card!”
They bought 85 acres in St. Landry Parish where they had some cows, designed a 15-pasture rotation system and discovered elderberries growing wild on the property. In his quest to improve his health naturally, Brandon researched and implemented a more holistic lifestyle, which just so happened to include incorporating elderberries into the family’s diet. The idea for the name “Cockeyed Farms” came about after feeling like they’d been turning in circles trying to find solutions and a new direction. And now they had both.
After Brandon discovered that most elderberry products consumed in the United States are made with dehydrated elderberries imported from Europe, he also learned that “any idiot can grow them, they love neglect,” and the notion to grow them locally seemed like a no-brainer. Despite having put down literal roots in the town of Washington, the Breauxs were in search of a better community in which to establish their family’s figurative roots, as well, and they found what they were looking for on the Northshore. They fell in love with Folsom and purchased a 35-acre property that was formerly owned by an LSU horticulture professor who cultivated various plants, an irrigation system and a 50-year-old organic blueberry orchard, which produces unique varieties of blueberries, some that even taste like Coca-Cola! Since putting in the initial work to turn forest land into elderberry farmland, Brandon and Lauren have expanded to include a second elderberry orchard, an apiary and an FDA-licensed food and beverage manufacturing facility.
WHAT IS THE FARM VETERAN COALITION?
This national nonprofit, non-governmental organization helps veterans transition from military service to a career in agriculture, providing them with valuable resources and a network for support and the sharing of ideas. Along with being members, Lauren serves as the president of the Louisiana chapter and Brandon serves as vice president.
“We are passionate about supporting veterans in their healing journey following their service toour country,” Lauren said. “We do this by first equipping them to feed themselves. Then, by mentoring and equipping them to enter the world of agriculture and explore a network of opportunities.”
SO, WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT ELDERBERRIES, ANYWAY?
From big grocery chains to local farmer’s markets, elderberry products are pretty much everywhere these days, mainly promoted as a dietary supplement for boosting the body’s immune response to colds, flu and other other respiratory ailments. It’s been used in folk medicine for eons and lots of anecdotal evidence has been widely shared in recent years, but promising scientific studies have started to lend credence to its broader benefits.
Different sources present different levels of confidence in its medicinal value, but according to researchers at Ohio State University, elderberries are “nutritional powerhouses” with a single cup containing 97 percent of the recommended daily amount (RDA) for vitamin A, 57 percent of the RDA for vitamin C, plus tons of potassium, fiber and antioxidant compounds like quercetins, anthocyanins and flavanols.
There are no established industry standards for dosages, so as with any supplement, if you decide to take it for therapeutic reasons, it’s highly advisable to consult with your physician to decide on proper amounts. But Lauren and Brandon say they are dedicated to changing people’s perspective to understand that food is fuel, which is why all of Cockeyed Farms’ products are not sold as supplements, but as food ingredients and additives.
WHY ARE THEIR GROWING AND PROCESSING METHODS SUCH A BIG DEAL?
Cockeyed Farms utilizes countless clean, conscientious, organic practices in growing their crops and maintaining the integrity of the fruit when making their products. This includes using compost made of coffee grinds, hardwood tree mulch from a local sawmill and quail litter, and processing berries using a cold-pressed juicer that keeps the skin and pulp in order to retain maximum nutritional value.
While battling his health challenges and seeking alternative treatments, Brandon went down a nutritional rabbit hole. After adopting an organic Keto diet, he saw the impact of clean, simple, fresh food.
“Diet was the number one thing that impacted my health and how I felt. I also discovered that raw honey is a natural preservative. I’m infatuated with freeze-drying now because it retains 98 percent of the nutritional efficacy of food for up to 25 years if you store it properly. So I freeze-dry our blueberries and elderberries, turn them into a powder, infuse it into our honey, and then cream it. It crystallizes to maintain a fine microcrystal to make it a beautiful spread.”
Lauren and Brandon both had restaurant experience, and therefore had worked in commercial kitchens. And Brandon’s safety background helped to navigate the regulatory standards required to run such a business.
Today, visitors can either book appointments in advance to pick their own blueberries (blueberry season is typically about 6-8 weeks between late May and early July), roam the property and have a picnic. They can also learn about, sample and purchase Cockeyed Farms products, which are
also sold at multiple stores all over the region, including Covington and Mandeville.
Their product line, all of which is Ochsner Eat-Fitcertified due to its low sugar content, currently includes American elderberry juice, American elderberry juice with honey, organic blueberries, American elderberry creamed honey, blueberry creamed honey and creamed honey.
Besides the obvious uses, Cockeyed Farms provides some creative ideas for other uses, like elevating the flavor and nutritional content of a pitcher of lemonade with any of their juices or honeys, freezing the juice into cubes to drop into a glass of prosecco and pairing the fruit-enhanced honey products with pork and smoked sausages for a sweet and savory combination. They’ve also created handy recipe cards with even more ideas.
To learn more, schedule a visit or find a store near you that carries Cockeyed Farm products, visit their website at CockeyedFarms.com. For more on the Farmer Veteran Coalition of Louisiana visit Facebook.com/LouisianaFVC.
Covington enjoys a plethora of cultural events year-round. Though many are sponsored by the City, it is actually our volunteer community that make some of the most unique of them happen. The Covington Heritage Foundation coordinates Farm-to-Table, the Antiques and Uniques Festival, Memorial Day Veterans Appreciation, Histories and Mysteries of Downtown, Cemetery #1 Whisperings and the History and Holly Home Tour. The St. John’s Fools of Misrule kick off Mardi Gras with a 12th Night Parade, host a chicken drop, Fool’s Fest and Running of the Fools. Our Covington Business Association hosts monthly meetings for the business community, coordinates the Final Friday Block Party, Kokomo Stroll, Porch Fest, A Taste of Covington and New Year’s on the Northshore (new this year). The Northshore Traditional Music Society keeps melodies flowing through our streets year-round while the Covington Concert Band presents LPO-like performances multiple times a year. Carnival in Covington rolls with parades by the Krewes of Olympia, Bogue Falaya and the Lions Club. The Three Rivers Art committee puts on one of the top art festivals in the South and the St. Tammany Art Association sponsors Spring for Art and Fall for Art.
Our residents and visitors enjoy a wide variety of wonderful events all year long … and we are grateful for the people and the organizations that help make Covington one of the coolest cities in America.
BUSINESS POR TRAITS
Mark Johnson City of Covington Mayor
St. Tammany NOW
Louisiana IS PLAYING TO WIN
Six years ago, in July 2018, I became the Chief Executive Officer at St. Tammany Corporation. Since then, we have redefined the primary focus areas for the local economic development organization in St. Tammany and reimagined economic development on the Northshore. St. Tammany Corporation leads economic development efforts throughout the region through various partnerships and collaboration with community stakeholders in St. Tammany. Our team is dedicated to diversifying the business and industry landscape by actively pursuing development in our land, sites, workforce, and talent assets to position St. Tammany to THRIVE. We tackle cross-cutting issues that are barriers to business investment and take great stewardship in safeguarding quality of life through dynamic economic development initiatives.
In the past year, St. Tammany Corporation has announced four projects in the corporate headquarters, cold storage, and manufacturing sectors representing over $73.3 million in capital investment and 530 jobs in St. Tammany. We are committed to transforming the economic landscape of St. Tammany into a premier destination for highly skilled talent, business formation, and economic growth. Through strategic initiatives in business formation, retention, attraction, and workforce development, St. Tammany Corporation exemplifies its mission to foster economic prosperity in the parish. Several notable projects highlight this commitment.
• Business retention efforts include BEC Co-Packers’ $2.5 million expansion, which retains 40 full-time employees and creates 50 new positions.
• On the attraction front, Agile Cold Storage’s $45.9 million investment in storage and logistics solutions and H&S’s $4.9 million investment in manufacturing and defense are set to create nearly 300 jobs combined.
We concluded the implementation of St. Tammany’s first economic development strategic plan, THRIVE2023, in February and are in the midst of the planning and development process of our second five-year economic development strategic plan. This new strategic plan will chart our efforts for businesses, families, and talent on the Northshore through 2029. With these recent investments and ongoing collaborative efforts, St. Tammany is positioned for continued economic growth and innovation in Louisiana as a whole.
Economic development in Louisiana is also undergoing a significant evolution that is set to bring about positive changes not seen in decades throughout Louisiana. Leading this transformation is the Northshore’s own Susan Bonnett Bourgeois, now serving as secretary of Louisiana Economic Development (LED). She is ready and determined to elevate Louisiana’s status and competitiveness to put Louisiana on the map, in the game, and playing to win. Governor
Jeff Landry, when announcing her appointment, clearly stated his objective to position Louisiana to win. Secretary Bourgeois leads with a “yes, and” mindset and is eager to showcase the “multi-generational, hard-working, and committed Louisiana workforce.”
Efforts are underway within the department, in the recent legislative session, and in statewide collaboratives to modernize how economic development is facilitated at the state level. This will ensure Louisiana has a proactive seat at the table and is strategically positioned to effectively tell Louisiana’s story by understanding and sharing our advantages. These efforts are anchored in the principle of positioning Louisiana to compete and win, which includes ensuring every Louisiana citizen has the opportunity to advance their wage earnings. Business development can be harnessed to both optimize Louisiana’s legacy industries to lead in the future, as they have in the past, and to grow and innovate the Louisiana business and economic ecosystems to impact the world. The desire to move at the speed of business, remove bureaucratic barriers, retain top talent, and implement initiatives and programs and measure their impact beyond a four-year political cycle will position the state for success.
TO SUMMARIZE THE “POSITIONING LOUISIANA TO WIN” BILL
On June 11, 2024, Governor Landry signed legislation, SB 494, known as the “Positioning Louisiana to Win” bill, which modernizes the organizational structure of LED. This legislation aims to better attract new business and more
Chris Masingill Chief Executive Officer St. Tammany Corporation
effectively support the businesses already invested in our state. The bill signing coincided with LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois’ announcement of her senior leadership team, adding extensive private sector, economic development, and change management experience at a pivotal moment in the agency’s history.
This redesigned organizational structure includes the following newly appointed positions that will directly support LED’s efforts:
• Chelsea Harris Dufrene, Executive Director, LED FastStart
• Chris Stelly, Director, Legislative Affairs
• Robin Porter, Executive Counsel
HOW THE BILL WORKS
The legislation, SB 494, establishes the Louisiana Economic Development Partnership (LEDP), a private sector-led advisory board tasked with developing a strategic economic development plan and advising on policies and initiatives to promote growth. This bill also grants the agency essential flexibility by exempting it from state procurement and technology service delays, enabling it to operate more efficiently.
Secretary Bourgeois highlighted the historic opportunity for Louisiana to attract investment, create jobs, foster growth, and achieve global impact. She emphasized that significant changes in approach are necessary to seize this opportunity, and SB 494 paves the way for such transformation. She expressed gratitude to the bill’s author, Senator Beth Mizell, House Commerce Committee Chairman Representative Daryl Deshotel, and the entire State Legislature for their support. With unified efforts from the governor, legislators, stakeholders, and business leaders, Louisiana’s economic potential is now within reach.
SB 494 removes the statutory requirement for the governor to appoint an Assistant Secretary and Undersecretary, giving the LED secretary the autonomy and flexibility to design a leadership structure as needed for the organization.
Senator Mizell, the bill’s author, noted that the legislation exemplifies the positive outcomes achievable through collective effort. The flexibility it provides has already allowed Secretary Bourgeois to form a skilled leadership team with extensive private sector experience. LED is now better equipped to operate at business speed and collaborate with local, regional, and business partners to elevate Louisiana.
The new legislation aligns LED’s organizational structure with best practices from other state economic development agencies, such as those in Virginia, North and South Carolina, and Georgia, as highlighted in a recent Louisiana Legislative Auditor report. It also incorporates recommendations from a study by the Committee of 100, a nonprofit organization comprising CEOs of leading companies and Louisiana university presidents. Adam Knapp, CEO of the Committee of 100, emphasized the importance of basing the bill on independent, national research of best practices, marking a new era in Louisiana’s economic development pursuits.
This aggressive proactiveness at the state level will have a trickle-down effect throughout Louisiana. St. Tammany Corporation continues to operate under this philosophy, as we face similar issues that discourage business investment and progress. Through this coordinated effort, we will recalibrate Louisiana’s ability to be successful by keeping our talent in the state and attracting new investment to support our quality of life and culture.
A thriving St. Tammany requires a growing, vibrant Louisiana. St. Tammany Corporation is committed to working alongside our economic development partners to maximize the opportunities to showcase Louisiana’s dynamic and treasured assets to be the destination of choice for talent, industry, business investment, and economic mobility.
Cottrell
Efrain and Bengliz Bermudez
ABOUT CHEF EFRAIN AND BENGLIZ BERMUDEZ
In every issue, EDGE of the Lake invites a local chef or restaurateur to visit another eatery on the Northshore.
Efrain and Bengliz Bermudez’s Valencia Restaurant brings all the vibrance and artistry of Spanish cuisine to historic downtown Covington. Located in a quaint bungalow a block off E. Boston Street, it features both innovative and traditional dishes that are made with the freshest ingredients and meticulously crafted to create a harmonious blend of subtle and striking flavors. Valencia serves lunch, brunch, dinner, dessert and a kid’s menu. Menu highlights include empanadas, paella and multiple fresh seafood dishes.
Bengliz and I recently decided to venture into Old Mandeville to have lunch at Sweet Olive Market & Bakery. We’d heard of it, but were anxious to dine there ourselves. It’s located in a beautiful historic building with true Louisiana charm and plenty of parking.
The interior is a cozy, inviting space, and along with serving food, they showcase local artists and also sell jewelry and small gifts. They have it set up where you order at the counter and they bring your food to the table, or you can choose from their great grab-and-go section.
As we checked out the menu, we found that it offers a broad selection with something for everyone. They have daily hot plate specials, handmade dips, burgers, salads that you can curate yourself and plenty of panini and sandwich options. Plus, they have a nice variety of sweet and savory baked goods, daily breakfast, weekend brunch and beer and wine.
We arrived at about 11:45 on a Monday and it was filling up quickly, but we were able to get a table with no wait. They also have outdoor seating. When the food arrived, it exceeded our expectations with quality ingredients and generous portions.
We ordered multiple things so we could share and sample a wider variety. The B.E.A.T sandwich is a cute and delicious fusion of egg salad and a BLT! The creaminess of the egg salad and the crispy bacon create a perfect marriage of texture and flavors. Their ham, brie and fig jam panini was also a great combination. We love a sweet and savory moment and this sandwich did not skimp on the fillings.
The whipped feta with honey and pistachios was a divine pairing of tanginess and sweetness, and was absolutely delicious! We ate it with the salty chips that came with our sandwiches and it was amazing. For dessert, we had the carrot cake, which was six layers of perfection, in part because the frosting was not overly sweet. So, it’s now one of our favorite carrot cakes around!
Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed the experience. In addition to the delicious food, Sweet Olive is charming and hospitable with a staff that is super friendly and ready to offer recommendations. It’s a great place for a quick meal, a cozy lunch date or to pick up lunch to go enjoy on the lakefront. We will recommend it to all our friends and family.
The St. Tammany Parish Library kicked off its summer reading program with two exciting and fun-filled events at the Madisonville and Slidell branches.
Northshore Humane Society invited Lake 94.7 to join them on Give NOLA Day.
Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer was excited to welcome the Elite Fishing Series Solo Tour back to Slidell.
Tchefuncte
held an open house to introduce their medical staff and services to new and existing clients.
Lake 94.7 was on hand for the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting for a new indoor pickleball center in Mandeville.
Covington Business Association’s A Taste of Covington hosted its annual Grand Tasting with a toga party at the Bouga Falya Hall.
Sheriff Randy Smith was sworn in to serve as St. Tammany Sheriff for another four years.
Health and Wellness
Keesler Credit Union celebrated the opening of its new location in Mandeville with a Free Crawfish Boil and party.
Inwood Gardens celebrated the opening of their new Mandeville location.
EDGE’s publisher caught up with Tyler Kinchen (at last) and presented him with Northshore Media Group’s Forty under 40 award from 2021.
Congratulations to Sunny Time Pilot Travel Center in Pearl River on your Grand Opening.
Get back in the game
At Ochsner Andrews Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute, we understand the importance of getting you back in the game. Whether your injury is minor or something more complex, our multidisciplinary team of orthopedics and sports medicine providers, concussion specialists, certified physical therapy specialists will work with you to develop a customized care plan to fit your needs
• Same-day, next day and Saturday morning appointments
• Recovery options to maintain high-level performance
• Serving 12+ local school programs with locations in Slidell, Covington, Hammond, Diamondhead and Bay St. Louis
For more information call 985-898-7272 or visit ochsner.org/sportsmedicine.
