Edge of the Lake Magazine February | March 2021

A W A R D S

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FEBRUARY | MARCH 2021

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People often ask me how I come up with our stories.

Honestly, I have to say they find me. I usually have one anchor story, maybe it’s a story from a local nonprofit, like following a client for 18 months while she goes through her journey to home ownership with Habitat, or a story about the art legend George Dunbar.

After establishing the main story, the others fall into place to balance the issue in what I always hope is something for everyone. I love the challenge of a tough topic and we have tackled many over the years. I have to give credit to my writing staff for their talents and to the photographers for capturing the images that help tell the stories.

In my anchor story for this issue you will get to know photographer Robert Dutruch. Last year I was honored to be named by Kelly Fortier as one of ten woman for her Artwalk at Ballet Apetrei’s show, On Woman. I was photographed for the show by Robert, and each time I spend time with him I hear another one of his great stories. I knew that our readers would enjoy getting to know Robert, and I think when you read his story you will agree.

Also, in this issue we have a story on Glamping and our Readers’ Choice awards. Thank you to all that voted. I am always excited to share the results with our readers. Congratulations to all the winners!

Enjoy this issue,

PUBLISHER

PUBLISHER Sarah Cottrell EDITOR Anton Chigurh ART DIRECTOR Erich Belk STYLE DIRECTOR Patty Beal BEAUTY EDITOR Caitlin Picou COPY EDITOR Mary-Brent Brown CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Liv Butera Sarah Cottrell Liz Smith Chris Masingill Elaine Millers STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Jerry Cottrell CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Pedro Jimenez Antenucci Colin Cottrell Robert Dutruch Matthew Schlenker Joel Treadwell SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVES Eloise Cottrell ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Rebecca Blossman-Ferran Erin Bolton Jamie Dakin Debi Menasco Stephanie Miller INTERN Julia Watson

Cover photo Glamping - Jerry Cottrell

The entire contents of this magazine are copyrighted

by EDGE Publishing. @ 2021 with all rights reserved.

Reproduction or use without permission of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. Please email comments or story ideas to edgepublisher@yahoo.com.

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ROBERT DUTRICH

WASHINGTON PARISH

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ARTIST

READERS’ CHOICE ST TAMMANY EAST

READERS’ CHOICE

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ST. TAMMANY NOW

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ART

FARMING

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ST TAMMANY WEST

MY TURN BY FRANK MARCELLO

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MURALS

READERS’ CHOICE

OUTDOOORS GLAMPING

Page 12 A Life Uncharted

FOIE GRAS

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COMMUNITY LEADERS

Mike Cooper St. Tammany Parish President

Randy Smith St. Tammany Sheriff

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Prioritizing the Future From the beginning of my service as St. Tammany Parish President, I have made the infrastructure needs of our community a priority. I plan to continue as I review all proposed projects, weigh in on their feasibility, and ensure that proper funding is in place to see them through to completion.

As we all know, and as I hear often, among the primary concerns of citizens is proper drainage. We live in a coastal community, often vulnerable to storms, flooding, and rising river levels. It is essential to have the proper drainage in place to ensure protection of life and property.

In 2019, over $8 million in major drainage projects in the River Glen, Riverwood, and Country Club Estate subdivisions in Covington; French Branch and Lake Village subdivisions in Slidell; and the Erindale Heights subdivision in Lacombe, were fully completed. Each one of these projects was completed utilizing the funding from our ad valorem tax of 2.17 mills, currently assessed at 1.69 mills, dedicated solely to fund drainage initiatives in our community. A portion of the design and construction of the innovative Brookter Street FloodBreak Automatic Floodgate Mitigation System completed in 2020 in the Foxhollow subdivision in Slidell was also funded by this millage. Since 2010 over 70 drainage projects throughout St. Tammany have been funded through this same millage.

On March 20, 2021, citizens will be asked to renew this dedicated drainage millage for an additional 10 years. This amounts to roughly 1.2% of all property taxes that citizens in St. Tammany pay each year. With a home valued at $250,000, a homeowner will pay about $29 per year. This millage is dedicated to the sole purpose of improving, maintaining and constructing bulk heading and bridging drainage ways, drainage ditches, drainage channels, and drainage canals within the Parish.

As we continue to prioritize drainage infrastructure in St. Tammany, we ask each citizen to consider the renewal of this millage for another ten years, so that we can ensure that the millions of dollars of identified drainage projects remain a fully funded priority. Thank you for your consideration.

Let me take this opportunity to wish you and your family a very happy New Year. 2020 was a rough year for all of us, but as a community we will continue to move forward and do what we need to do to overcome this pandemic together.

As we begin a new year, it is common practice to look inward and to make resolutions and changes in our lives. Many of us will resolve to eat healthier, exercise more, lose weight and take better care of our bodies.

While making your new year’s resolutions this year, I ask that you consider one more … to lock your car doors. We at the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office have adopted the national social media campaign: #9pmroutine. I ask you to adopt it in your homes as well.

On selected nights of the week a #9pmroutine reminder is posted on the agency’s social media pages, reminding followers to remove valuables from vehicles, to secure their valuables that are left outdoors, to lock their vehicle and residence doors and windows and to turn on outside lights before they go to bed.

The campaign, which has been adopted by law enforcement agencies around the nation, is aimed at reducing vehicle and residential burglaries in neighborhoods.

Burglaries, particularly vehicle burglaries, are often crimes of convenience. Criminals simply travel thru neighborhoods, pulling on door handles, looking for ones that have been left unlocked. When they find one, they quickly grab what they can – loose change, an unsecured firearm, a prescription bottle, an expensive pair of sunglasses, a forgotten purse – and move on to the next vehicle.

Unfortunately, many of our residents leave these items and others, even cash or electronics, in their unlocked cars at night, making it easy for these criminals.

While St. Tammany is still a very safe community to live and work, the days of leaving your cars unlocked and your keys in the ignition are unfortunately long gone.

Please help us reduce the number of vehicle burglaries by practicing the #9pmroutine and make locking your car doors one of your new year’s resolutions.

Happy New Year and God Bless!

EDGE February | March 2021

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COMMUNITY LEADERS

Clay Madden City of Mandeville Mayor

I hope you had a great holiday season and, like me, are looking for “Good Things to Come in 2021.”

The City of Mandeville is now on Twitter! Please follow us at @MandevilleLoui1.

The City Council recently voted unanimously to confirm my appointment of the new City Engineer, David LeBreton with Digital Engineering. Assisting in project management on current and upcoming projects, Mr. LeBreton will also aid my administration in process improvements for these projects, including billing.

My administration, working closely with our city attorney, is continuing to conduct a full review of all city contracts after several lapsed contracts were found. All contracts will be updated in the best interest of the City.

Several existing community cameras are currently being upgraded with new fiber lines.

Additional community cameras will be added as part of the upgrade.

The beautification project under the overpass at Monroe Street and East Causeway Approach will soon begin. Plans for the traffic flow improvements at that intersection, by way of turning lane modifications, are currently under engineering review with plans being 90%.

Lastly, due to the cancellation of many events in Mandeville due to COVID-19, our Cultural Development Department has partnered with the Dew Drop Jazz and Social Hall to live stream three virtual concerts on the Facebook pages of the Mandeville Trailhead, the City of Mandeville and the Dew Drop.

Virtual concert dates are as follows: January 29th – John Boutte Trio (7:00 p.m.)

February 5th – Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra Quintet (7:00 p.m.)

February 12th – Doreen Ketchens (7:00 p.m.)

The Krewe du Pooch dog parade will be virtual this year. The Krewe du Pooch Virtual Run/Walk and Costume Contest will take place Saturday, February 20th. Registration at www.krewedupooch.org.

Thank you for letting me serve as your Mayor. Happy New Year. Great things to come in 2021!

Six more weeks of winter, or is spring just around the corner? It matters not in Tangipahoa, where our people are EXCITED to be getting out with the return of sports in our community.

From the state high school soccer championships to the return of Marsh Madness and Southeastern athletics, our calendar will be dominated by a ton of athletic events this spring!

The excitement begins Feb. 24-27, when we welcome the Louisiana High School Athletic Association’s Boys’ and Girls’ Soccer State Tournament. This event will draw the best high school soccer teams I from across our state.

The following week, LHSAA returns to town, and we will welcome the best in girls’ high school basketball. The 2021 Marsh Madness state tournament is an event we have proudly Robby Miller Tangipahoa Parish President hosted off and on for more than two decades, and we are so excited to welcome it back to Hammond. In recent years, several of our local teams have made “repeat” championship runs in this tournament. It is my hope we have some great local favorites to cheer on March 1-6.

Speaking of Southeastern, our Lions return to the field in a special “spring” season of football, starting Feb. 27. At times this spring, Southeastern will literally have football, basketball, softball, and baseball all happening on the same weekend, sometimes in overlapping games. If you haven’t had a chance to come cheer on our Lions, now is the time! Check out LionSports.net for all the details on upcoming events and online ticket options.

As we always say, there’s so much to do here in Tangipahoa. Make plans to come out and enjoy a safe, family-oriented visit in Tangipahoa this spring!

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EDGE February | March 2021

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COMMUNITY LEADERS

Mark Johnson City of Covington Mayor

Covington enjoys a historic and storied past dating back to schooners in the 1800’s and trains in the 1900’s. One of our most storied residential neighborhoods, the West 30’s, has been home to our Black community for over a century.

The West 30’s was home to Isiah “Butch” Robertson, a high school football star at Pineview High, an All American at Southern University where he made a record setting 102 yard interception return for a game winning touchdown against Grambling State University in the game’s waning seconds. In 1971, he was the first-round draft pick of the Los Angeles Rams, was the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and named to six Pro-bowls.

His younger neighbor, Mike Williams, starred at Covington High. Mike became the first Black person to play football for LSU, helping break the racial barrier. He was a first team All American in 1974 and a first-round draft pick of the San Diego Chargers.

The neighborhood also enjoys a rich musical history. During the days of segregation, Black bands would frequent the clubs on West 30th Avenue such as Dot’s Ponderosa, the Band Box, the Funky Londoner and Club 30. Speakers were placed on the roof of the Band Box so folks crowded in the street could hear Sam Cooke, Johnny “Guitar” Watson, Bobby Blue Bland, Irma Thomas, Fats Domino, James Brown, Ray Charles and BB King … all in the heart of little ole Covington.

When Lifetime Grammy Award Winner Bobby Blue Bland’s drummer was ill, the call went out around the neighborhood for little 11 year old Henry Randle. Little Henry played that night and continued to play around the world for the next 50 years. He’s still playing today.

So, when you visit Covington, listen carefully … because there’s a story on every block.

Dear Citizens,

Greg Cromer City of Slidell Mayor

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I hope everyone’s 2021 is off to a good start!

We are still dealing with COVID-19 in our community. No one is immune to this virus as I have experienced myself. My wife and I both had COVID-19 and we quarantined in January.

So please be cognizant of what’s going on around you and take the necessary precautions to protect you and your family.

I would like to thank all of our citizens for taking this public health emergency seriously and following the federal, state and local government recommendations for practicing social distancing and wearing masks in public. I ask everyone to continue to be personally and socially responsible and respectful of those around you in our community.

Remember, we are all in this together and together we will get through this and be stronger and better for it.

For up to date information about the City of Slidell, visit our website at MySlidell.com and follow us at “City of Slidell, Louisiana” on Facebook.

EDGE February | March 2021

EDGEatorial

A SAFE ALTERNATIVE

TO NURSING HOME CARE

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or years, nursing home care has been a reasonable solution for families needing assistance caring for loved ones. Now COVID has many second guessing their decision to utilize nursing homes and other long term care facilities. But what are the alternatives for families in need? In-home sitters are expensive and may not have the skills needed to provide proper care. If a sitter with the proper skills can be found, how can their trustworthiness and reliability be ensured? If care needs increase how can a new, more skilled sitter be found? C.A.R.E. inc. has answers to all of these questions and has helped families navigate these difficult decisions for almost 30 years.

C.A.R.E. inc. was founded in 1991 in response to a social push to deinstitutionalize care for individuals with both physical and/or mental disabilities. The goal was to provide a better quality of life through care in homes rather than in institutions. C.A.R.E. inc. set out with two primary objectives. First, to care for special needs children and individuals in their own homes so they wouldn’t have to live

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in an institution, and second, to aid in the care of people well enough to return home from institutions.

Throughout the years, C.A.R.E. inc. services have evolved to include caring for seniors who have chosen to remain in the home rather than moving into a nursing facility. Over the last decade consumers in general have come to appreciate personalized, concierge-type services. From shopping to doctor visits, there has been a trend toward home-based services. Now, COVID has many families re-evaluating the option of home-based care for their loved ones. C.A.R.E. inc. has the experience and expertise to provide the quality, in-home care expected for any family member in need.

James Griffith, partner of CARE, inc., states “One of the most difficult times is when a family has decided that the parent needs care but the parent does not agree. This can be hard on everyone involved. Our experts are skilled at working with families in a favorable, non-threatening way to help alleviate those concerns.”

Committed to continued growth and development as the needs of the communities change.

EDGE February | March 2021

THE MISSION OF CARE, INC. CARE, inc. assists individuals with both physical and/or mental disabilities in achieving a better quality of life by caring for them in their own homes. We believe that individuals who live at home and remain active in their community maintain their self-dignity and ultimately live a higher quality of life.

Covington Team

The process is simple. After an initial phone call, the intake process assigns a social worker to the patient. A thorough, but easy assessment determines the level of care needed. It could be as simple as a companion or a more skill-based need such as nursing care. Options include services for as few as four hours a day up to 24 hour care.

Generally clients are looking for about 6 hours per day, but each situation is unique and as needs increase and decrease, C.A.R.E. inc. has the staff and expertise to expand and contract with those needs.

A frequently asked question is whether these services are covered by long-term care insurance policies. The short answer is yes. Long-term care policies do offer a daily benefit that is reimbursable to agencies like CARE, inc.. Many people don’t realize their policy assists with this benefit.

There are also federal and state programs that assist in the

funding of the services. The CARE, inc. expert staff assist in this process as well.

CARE, inc. is licensed through the Department of Health and Hospitals. As such, they are held to regulations that other companies are not. Included are background checks, on-going training, and maintaining a supervisory staff that makes sure everything is done correctly. With locations in Hammond, Covington, Baton Rouge and LaPlace, CARE, inc. has nearly 400 employees caring for 300 people daily.

CARE, inc. has proudly served the local communities for more than a quarter of a century. Whether you’re seeking someone to simply help with errands and companionship, or are looking for around the clock assistance, they provide in-home care services 24/7. For more information please visit them at careinc.com.

The need for in-home care can be daunting, but it is much easier when you have trained professionals to help along the way.

EDGE February | March 2021

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A Life Un

Photo by Jerry Cottrell

ncharted

The Alchemy & Wizardry of Robert Dutruch

STORY LIZ GENEST SMITH PHOTOS ROBERT DUTRUCH

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s a fairly competent journalist, I like to be as prepared as possible before I interview someone I’ve never met. I scour the internet for anything I can get my hands on – like biographical information, news stories and social media accounts – and I dive as deeply as possible into their line of work or whatever they’re known for or are passionate about. Based on all that, I craft a series of questions and topics of discussion, one dovetailing neatly into the next, to create a general road map of how I expect the conversation to go, so I can steer it in a smooth and generally linear direction. This usually works like a charm . . . but not always.

Two minutes into my conversation with artist Robert Dutruch, I pretty much tossed my trusty old map right out the window, and just went along for the ride. Two hours (and a million unexpected, zigzagging topics) later, we were both laughing about how the heck I was going to organize my notes.

“Good luck with that!” he joked.

Luckily, I enjoy a challenge. Join me as I ride shotgun into the unconventional world of Robert Dutruch, won’t you?

KICKING THE TIRES

Before we embark on this epic journey, let’s cover some basics. Robert Dutruch is an award-winning, Northshorebased photographer and printmaker.

His studio, the fabulously named Lost Hills Atelier, is located in rural Bush, Louisiana; he’s represented by Claire Elizabeth Gallery in New Orleans; and he’s known for fine art images in black-and-white and sepia tones, which have been featured in countless exhibitions, venues, and galleries

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all over the country. This is pretty much the extent of what I initially learned about him online. Since I didn’t find a lot of personal details, I figured maybe he was a private kind of guy, and perhaps we’d just talk business – his interesting body of work and his use of old school equipment and techniques.

In studying his work, I was struck by how, at first glance, some of his most intriguing pieces – a stunning close-up of a young child’s face, a haunting grove of trees, eerie dolls and antique tools, staged as though they are priceless museum pieces – seem like completely unrelated subjects. Yet, they all have a hint of mystery, as though they each harbor their own secret stories. I definitely planned to delve into that.

As for his equipment and techniques, he mainly uses large format view cameras, 19th century brass lenses and a 3,000-pound etching press … and he works exclusively in some of photography’s earliest forms of processing, such as wet plate collodion ambrotypes, platinum/palladium printing, and intaglio heliogravures.

Um, come again? Trust me, I had to do tons of Googling before I spoke with him. In layman’s terms, he develops his images using lots of heavy equipment, crazy chemicals and arduous techniques. I don’t pretend to fully understand all the technical aspects, but as a terribly lazy short-cut person, I’m sort of fascinated by someone’s decision to make their work more complicated and inconvenient than it has to be.

I’d also read that Dutruch is a respiratory therapist by trade, and that he was tasked with repairing broken anesthesia machines in Haiti in the wake of the 2010 earthquakes (where he also captured a collection of striking images, including the aforementioned child’s face). Something told me there was something interesting happening in a mind that resides at the intersection of science and art.

I was not wrong.

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PEDAL TO THE METAL

Our conversation started off straightforward enough.

When I asked Dutruch about his connection to the Northshore, he told me his grandfather arrived here in 1868 with 25,000 clippings from the family vineyard back in the Bordeaux region of France. He was unsuccessful in getting locals interested in winemaking, so he switched to the timber business, which was taking off like a rocket around that time.

(This ability to turn stumbling blocks into firewood is an important family trait. Put a pin in that.)

Though he was born in New Orleans, Dutruch explained that he spent many weekends at his grandfather’s ranch, playing rodeo.

“Did you know I used to be a rodeo clown?” he casually mentioned.

Cue the screeching tires. This was the first of many hairpin turns that we took as our conversation picked up speed and covered lots of unexpected territory. What seemed random and unrelated at the time, eventually – much later, after much scrutiny and contemplation – started to form a cohesive character profile. But, we’re not there, yet. So, back to the rodeo ...

“In college, I did some bull riding, but I was terrible at it.

I’d go home sore and with empty pockets.”

He discovered that rodeo clowns make more money, so naturally, he enrolled in rodeo clown school.

“I was expecting lectures, but they just gave us cleats, sent us out in the arena, and told us not to get run over, and try not to die.”

While he managed not to die in his decade-long stint in the rodeo, Dutruch wound up getting fitted with nine screws and a metal plate after a mishap in Baton Rouge left his ankle in a 45-degree angle.

There are two recurring themes here – fearlessness and a committed, often academic approach to even his most impulsive choices. And like many other seemingly haphazard decisions, the rodeo wound up providing Dutruch with a life-changing opportunity.

DETOURS & MENTORS

We were several stories deep into our conversation before I was able to get Dutruch to provide a few basic coordinates to help me start constructing a mental map of his life’s journey.

“I graduated from college in 1976. Things got out of hand after that,” he admitted.

Dutruch enjoyed some success as a young artist in New Orleans, but his mentor and collaborator, the late art historian and Times-Picayune critic George Jordan, encouraged him to get out of Louisiana and head for New York or Los Angeles to spread his wings and maybe learn the commercial side of the business in order to make a living.

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He certainly spread his wings when he became a rodeo clown, and though it seems like a major detour to the casual observer, it was actually while on the circuit that he had a careeraltering chance meeting with famed fashion and portrait photographer Richard Avedon, who shot a mind-boggling array of provocative ad campaigns and portraits of the 20th century’s most important icons. Thrilled by the prospect of possibly landing a job as an assistant to this legend, Dutruch took off for New York on a whim, but wound up opting to work for another acclaimed, yet very different brand of photographer – innovative commercial artist Yasuomi Hashimura. His extraordinary work, Dutruch explained, was the result of a fierce work ethic and painstaking attention to detail.

“Working for Hashi was brutal – he fired and rehired me so many times – but it was amazing.

To be honest, I probably made the right choice (choosing him over Avedon). I learned how to create special effects before computers.”

But, given that we now have super advanced computers and software, what’s up with the ancient tools and techniques?

“I had to decide years ago whether to jump on the digital bandwagon or go back 100 years.

I decided to go old school. The frustrating part is that everyone with a cellphone thinks they’re a photographer. People don’t appreciate how difficult this is and how much work goes into it.

I have to make everything from raw chemicals. That can create a lot of problems when you’re dealing with things like potassium cyanide. It’s dangerous.”

Just FYI, this highly toxic and volatile substance is often used in gold mining, organic synthesis and electroplating, but it was also used as a chemical warfare agent in both world wars, it was in the Kool Aid at the Jonestown Massacre in 1978, and in the Tylenol poisonings in 1982.

Yikes! Beyond the immediate physical danger, I wondered if the feds ever came knocking.

And sure enough, despite filling out all the proper paperwork, he’s been visited – and cleared, of course – by Homeland Security. Exciting, right?

As I tried to wrap my mind around how an artist can also be so very scientific and technically inclined, he quite simply said, “I like to call it alchemy and wizardry. My studio looks more like a laboratory than an art studio.”

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Alchemy and wizardry. That did the trick. I felt like I had a firmer grasp on what makes Dutruch tick, but I still wanted to know if it was the satisfaction of mastering the difficult processes or the results he enjoyed most.

Without hesitation, he told me, “The results! If I could do it easier, I would.”

But, honestly, I’m not sure I believe that. This is someone who never seems to shrink from a challenge or take any shortcuts. He admits to being academic at his core, which explains why he frequently goes to the trouble to seek out influential mentors and educational opportunities.

ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS

My initial impression that each of Dutruch’s pieces have stories to reveal turned out to be spot on. His projects and collections all appear to have sprung from topics and experiences that touched him deeply in some way or another. When something truly catches his attention on the road of life, he pulls over and sets up camp.

Ask about his “Finding Vincent” project, and he’ll not only speak of his annual pilgrimage to France and his deep admiration for Vincent Van Gogh’s work, but he’ll describe in detail an immersive labor of love. Reading the troubled genius’ personal letters and retracing his steps have helped Dutruch to “identify with his frustration and struggles,” and understand how it must have felt to be locked up in the asylum, how the view out the window affected him and inspired famous paintings, and even how the theory that he died by suicide doesn’t match the forensic evidence.

When he speaks of his “Haiti, A Portrait” collection, Dutruch bears witness to the world beyond the protected hospital zone where he was stationed. Sneaking over the barricade, he discovered the resilience, generosity and joy of people dealing with a level of chaos, horror and destruction in the wake of a catastrophic earthquake that “made Katrina look like a camping trip in comparison.” Personal encounters with a destitute old woman who wanted to share her meager lunch with him, and a small child who’d been separated from his mother still bring raw emotion to Dutruch’s voice as he speaks of them.

Of his “Lost, Abandoned and Forgotten” project, he explained, “I like old things. I don’t like anything new. And when I found the dolls, I knew they’d once been cherished by a child and I began to see a story that needed to be told.”

And of one of the featured dolls, he said, “She became important again. She became valuable again.”

THE BIG PICTURE

Towards the end of our marathon conversation, when we were laughing about the volume of stories he had shared, Dutruch told me, “My mom always says, ‘When Robert dies, the world is going to owe him nothing.

He’s done it all.’”

Indeed, it appears that he has.

And as I struggled mightily to tame and organize my reams of hastily scribbled notes, I finally sat back and ruminated a bit on this adventurous yet focused, impulsive yet meticulous, science-minded artist. And eventually, I got a little clarity.

Are you familiar with GPS art?

This is the relatively new practice where runners systematically plot out their routes and sync their GPS tracking apps in order to create an image or even words on a map. They probably look lost or confused to people on the street, as they make odd, abrupt turns or they inexplicably retrace their steps. It’s not until you step back and get a bird’s eye view that it makes sense. Though Dutruch hasn’t premeditatedly charted his course, his instincts, courage and curiosity have certainly directed him toward a series of encounters and well-timed opportunities that have had a cumulative effect on him and his work. It also helps that he apparently inherited his grandfather’s adaptability, allowing him to turn roadblocks and detours into purposeful paths.

In my completely untrained and amateur estimation, Robert Dutruch is essentially a portrait artist of both people and inanimate objects, creating visual stories by using a combination of the exuberance of a rodeo clown, the painstaking innovation of Hashi, the minimalist yet emotive aesthetic of Avedon, but most importantly, his own unique ability to form and convey a personal connection with his subjects. The result is a body of work that seamlessly merges the science of alchemy with the magic of wizardry.

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Photos by Jerry Cottrell

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SATURDAY & SUNDAY • 10 AM TO 5 PM ANTIQUES | VINTAGE COLLECTIBLES & CRAFTS ARCHITECTURAL SALVAGE | COVINGTON ART MARKET FOOD | MUSIC & MORE For more information, visit www.covingtonheritagefoundation.com or email antiques@covla.com Covington Trailhead • 419 N. New Hampshire Street Covington, Louisiana • 985.892.1873

985.690.8300 WWW.DOCTORSURGENTCARE.ORG 985 Robert Blvd., Suite 101 Slidell, LA 70458

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WE WILL BE FOLLOWING THE 6 FT PHYSICAL DISTANCING AND FACE MASK MANDATE AS REQUIRED BY OUR GOVERNOR AT THE TIME OF THE EVENT.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE

2021

Readers’ Choice Winners

NM

NORTHSHORE MEDIA GROUP

“Comments from some of our readers� dsay Shred run by Lin as fresh Lenart always h meal!! and nutritional peanut Amazing Protein a great butter balls! Just ean and place and cl get environment to healthy food.

Best attorneys in town. They love our community and are th ey are the most helpful people you can find.

Jared Miguez goes ab ove and beyond for all my customer’s. I highly recommend them!

Bayou Adventure is one of a kind. They do Everything and are so friendly.

Megan Helwick has sold us two homes.

She has been our rock when it comes to putting our family in the right situation to grow and prosper.

Times Grill is the best ever!

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Having a virtu al Three Rivers Art Fe stival was much nic er than I thought it wo uld be. Up front in your face with the artists. Lo ved it!

w STIC ne FANTA ton, ranklin F n i e u at boutiq has gre e b o r a f ces Chif reat pri g d n a s n. clothe d woma n a n e . for m ries too o s s e c c da g.

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2021 Readers’ Choice Winners

RESTAURANTS Appetizer

Restaurant Cotè

Asian

Attached Koi’s Asian Cuisine is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag run as is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app

Bar Food

Maple Room

Barbecue

ST. TAMMANY EAST

Papa’s Backyard Bar-B-Q

Breakfast

Creole Bagelry and Cafè

Brunch

Palmetto’s on the Bayou

Burger

BREAKFAST Creole Bagelry and Cafe’ 1337 Gause Blvd, Suite 102 985.649.6151 creolebagelrycafe.com

Times Grill Casual Dining Nola Southern Grill

Catering

Trinity Banquets and Receptions Attached is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag run as is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app Coffee Shop Creole Baglery

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LeBlanc’s Cajun Creole Kitchen

Dining with a View Nathan’s Restaurant

Donuts

Camellia City Deaux - Nuts

Fine Dining

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PHOTOGRAPHER Amber Mott Slidell, La 619.952.7527 ambermottphotography.com

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 9

Frozen Yogurt Counter Culture

Fried Chicken LeBlanc’s Cajun Creole Kitchen

Greek

Albasha Health Food Shred

Hot Dogs

Bruiser’s The Hot Dog Place

Ice Cream

Old Towne Slidell Soda Shop

Italian

Olde Towne Pizza

ATTORNEY Amber Sheppard Sheppard Law, PLLC 985.265.7196 ambersheppardlaw.com

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE

Voted Favorite Po-Boy

Gause Blvd E. Slidell , LA -

Lake Readers Choice 7.6111x4.9022 010821.pdf

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1/8/21

12:05 PM

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 985 733 4670

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Juice Bar

Impact Nutrition

Kid Friendly

Olde Towne Pizza

King Cake Randazzo’s

PEEPS Architect

Dammon Engineering

Artist

Attached Lori Gomezis a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag run as is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app

Attorney

Amber Sheppard

Mexican

Taco’s and Beer

New

860 Wine Bar

Oysters

NOLA Southern Grill

Pizza

Pizza Platoon

Po-Boy

Jazzy Pete’s Po-Boys

Romantic

Palmetto’s on the Bayou

Salad

Southside Cafè

Seafood

Kenney Seafood

Service

Gallagher’s on Front Street

Smoothies

Impact Nutrition

Snowballs Juanies

Bartender Erica Borja

Builder

ECO Builders

Chef/Restaurant

Jeremy Reily/Restaurant Cotè

Coach

Larry Favre

Contractor MaxHome

CPA

Bob Jones Accounting Attached is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag run as is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app Financial Advisor Jeanette Sanford

Insurance Agent Alan Case

Photographer Amber Mott

Real Estate Agent Summer Casebolt

Tattoo Artist

Randy Keeler/No Kings Tattoo

Soup

Southside Cafè

Steak

Gallagher’s on Front Street

Sushi Sogo

Teacher

Brittany Boos

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PH

Travel Agent

Anna Caruso/Love the Mouse Travel

Anti-Aging Specialist

Bo Tea

Skincare by Amanda

Thai

Cardiologist

Thailicious

Glen Polin, M.D.

Vietnamese

Chiropractor

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FINANCIAL ADVISOR Edward Jones - Jeanette M. Sanford, AAMS 2170 Gause Blvd. West, Suite 135, Slidell 985.781.7683 edwardjones.com/jeanette-sanford

MEDICAL

Tea

Pho Bistro

INSURANCE AGENT Lowry - Dunham, Case & Vivien 2001 First St. Slidell 985.643.1234 Idcv.com

Alicia Smith, D.C.

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REAL ESTATE AGENT Summer Casebolt, Realtor 2055 Gause Blvd., Suite 200, Slidell 516.519.6355 summercasebolt@gmail.com

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Newly Remodeled Bar Waterfront Dining Lunch & Dinner Specials Everyday Fresh Cut Steaks and Fish FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR WEEKLY SPECIALS!

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Hours of Operation Tuesday - Thursday 11am-9pm Friday & Saturday 11am-10pm Closed Sunday & Monday Open all Major Holidays

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 985 733 4670

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Dermatologist

PROOF SHEET Hilton Dermatology and Aesthetics

Harbor Family ur ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the LakeOak magazine.

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Doctor

Brandon Simon-Davis, M.D.

Home Health ComForCare

Hospice of the South Slidell Memorial Hospital

Medical Testing Facility OB/GYN

PROOF SHEET

Blake Landry, M.D.

Opthalmologist

Matt McElveen, M.D. ur ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake magazine. This ad will ive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes orOrthodontist approve via email.

Smile Doctors

Parade

St. Patrick’s Day Olde Towne Crawl Cutting Edge Theater

SPORTS AND LEISURE Bed and Breakfast

Woodridge Bed and Breakfast

Camping Spot

Pine Crest R.V. Park

Children’s Playground Heritage Park

Fitness Studio

Pediatrician

Golf Course

Personal Trainer

Health Club

Physical Therapist

Indoor Sports Facility

Robert Orteling, M.D.

Tim Minnette

Action Physical Therapy

LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 985 733 4670

Surgery Center

Cycology Studio Pinewood Golf Course Crossgates Family Fitness

Altitude Trampoline Park

Karate Studio

Southern Surgical Hospital

Rick Weems

Urgent Care

Public Park

Doctor’s Urgent Care

Heritage Park

Veterinarian

Swim Club

Southern Pearl

Hurricane’s

ALL THINGS ARTY

Tennis Courts

Lori Gomez

Bayou Adventure

Crossgates Family Fitness

Art Classes

Tourist Attraction

Art Gallery

NIGHTLIFE

Sambola

E LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 985 733 4670 EDGE February | March 2021

Slidell Police Pink Car

Orthopedist

Brian Fong, M.D.

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Charity Event

Theatre Group

Hospital

Diagnostic Imaging Center

DANCE STUDIO Infinity Dance Productions 3191 Terrace Ave Suite E. Slidell 985.288.4124 Infinitydanceproductionsla@gmail.com

Two Piece Dark Meat

Festival

Hospice

REAL ESTATE Engel & Völkers Slidell 820 Oak Harbor Blvd., Slidell 985.646.2111 slidellmandeville.evrealestate.com

John Case

Band

Dentist

ANTI-AGING SPECIALIST Skin Care by Amanda 2800 East Gause Blvd., Suite B, Slidell 985.640.5830 skincarebyamandaslidell.com

Author

Bar

Brass Monkey

St. Tammany's best kept secret.

The Hospice House is a three-bedroom home in St. Tammany Parish that welcomes end of life patients to live out their final days in our home. We provide a 24 hour caregiver to provide top-notch care free of charge.

For more information or to tour the facilty, please call (985) 643-5470.

“A Compassionate Dentist Office That Puts Your Concerns First”

COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL CARE FOR ALL AGES • Same Day Crowns (CEREC) • Dental Implants • Porcelain Vaneers • Invisalign • Botox • Same Day Whitening • TMJ DisorderTreatment

Dr. Michael Appleton DDS

Dr. Christopher Braud DDS

480 OAK HARBOR BLVD., SLIDELL 985.649.9455

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Bloody Mary

Home Décor

Daiquiri

Jewelry

Maple Room Castaways

Happy Hour Brass Monkey

Live Music Venue Lobby Lounge

Margarita

Southern Farmhouse

Salles’ Attached is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag runLighting as is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app ABC Lighting

Meat

Armond’s

Pharmacy

Carreta’s Grill

Finnan’s Family Pharmacy

Martini

Sporting Goods

Wine Garden

Place to go Dancing Brass Monkey

Sports Bar

Sportsman’s Warehouse

Sunglasses

Stella and Grace

Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux

Supermarket

SHOPPING

Tires

Antiques

Art & Antiques on First

Baby/Children’s Store Once upon a Child

HAIR SALON AND HAIR REMOVAL Serendipity Salon 1502 Front St., Slidell 985.259.4054 serendipitysalonslidell.com

Rouses Market

East Gause Tire & Automotive Attached is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag runWine as is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app Aquistapace’s Wine Warehouse

Woman’s Boutique

Bakery

Sugar Love

Bridal Boutique

James & B Bridal Outlet

Car Dealership Toyota of Slidell

Consignment

Itsy Bitsy Closet

Garden Center The Garden Spot

Gifts

Green Oaks Apothecary

Florist

Petals & Stem

Cody Kate Boutique

Women’s Shoes Stella and Grace

SERVICES Acting School

Slidell Little Theater

WOMEN’S CLOTHING BOUTIQUE Cody Kate Boutique Shannon Caldarera & Melissa Giambelluca 1337 Gause Blvd., Ste, 109, Slidell 985.640.6268 codykateboutique.shop

EDGE OF Service THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 9 Air Conditioning and Repair ECO Air

Car Wash

Rainforest Carwash

Contractor

Billbar Construction

Cooking Classes Passionate Platter

Flooring

Floorworks

Furniture

Lulu’s and Almost New

Hardware Store

Ace Hardware on Pontchartrain

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Dance Studio Infinity Dance

Day Spa

Woodhouse Spa

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TOURIST ATTRACTION Bayou Adventure 28178 Hwy. 190 Lacombe 985.882.9208 bayouadventure.com

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 9

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PROOF SHEET

of of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake magazine. This ad will we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or approve via email.

PLUMBING Drain Surgeon Inc. 721 Robert Blvd., Slidell 985.641.7919 www.drainsurgeon.net

HARDWARE Pontchartrain ACE Hardware and Lumber Co. 3320 Pontchartrain Dr.Slidell 985.643.4672

Dry Cleaner

Corporate Cleaners

Music School

Little Sound Academy

PROOF SHEETPet Boarding Elementary School (Private) St. Margaret Mary

Mary’s Bed and Biscuit

Elementary School (Public)

Pet Grooming

Financial Institution

Plumbing

OnPath Federal Credit Union

Drain Surgeon

Hair Removal

Preschool

Serendipity Salon

Kidz Klub House

Hair Salon

Printer

Serendipity Salon

Olde Town Print

High School (Private)

Promotional Materials

Bonne Ecole of of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake magazine. This ad willMary’s Bed and Biscuit we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or approve via email.

WEDDING VENUE The Venue 2242 Carey Street Slidell 985.224.3111 thevenueoldetowne.square.site

Pope John Paul II

Threadheadz

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4670SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 9

High School (Public) Northshore High

Kids’ Party Venue

Engel Volkers

Landscape Services

Senior Living Facility

Mani Pedi Spa

Summer Camps

Mechanic Shop

Wedding Venue

Mortgage Company

Yoga

Blow Dry Bar

East Gause Tire & Automotive

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Real Estate Company

Altitude Trampoline Park

Garden Doctor

PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS Threadheadz Embroidery & Vinyl 1620 Shortcut Hwy., Slidell 985.259.4333 sales@threadheadz.net

Radio Station

LAKE 94.7

Prime Lending

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OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 985 733 4670

Summerfield

Crossgates Family Fitness

The Venue

Blue Arrow Yoga

P S O R E T T I S R B AR O V A F

5 0 T O W N C E N T E R PA R K W AY

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985.639.9891

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Heart and Hustle

The Hospice House Board of Directors congratulates our Executive Director.

Built by hustle. Driven by heart.

Slidell

Miranda Parker on her “Forty Under 40” Honor.

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Paul Chiasson Branch Manager

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FEBRUARY 5 FRI & SAT 8pm Starts at $30.00

Nick Perkins will recreate the live 70s LAS VEGAS shows and make you feel like you just have seen Elvis and will make your experience feel like he is only singing to you. He is the 5th Place out of 28 others in Images Of the King competition.

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Starts at $27.50

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This musical about American Love Letters is a play by A. R. Not Snow White and her posse high schoolers features music Gurney that was a finalist for the of disenchanted princesses in the rock ‘n roll style of Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

TheSUITE play 1 • COVINGTON, in the hilarious hit EDGE OFtheTHE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190.

LAmusical 70433 • PHO 1950s and is the basis for the centers on two characters, Melissa that’s anything but Grimm. The 1978 film starring John Travolta Gardner and Andrew Makepeace original storybook heroines and Olivia Newton-John.

Ladd III. Using the epistolary form are none-too-happy with the sometimes found in novels, they way they’ve been portrayed in sit side by side at tables and read today’s pop culture so they’ve the notes, letters and cards – in tossed their tiaras and have which over nearly 50 years, they come to life to set the record discuss their hopes and ambitions, straight. Forget the princesses dreams and disappointments, you think you know – these victories and defeats – that have royal renegades are here to C H O I C E A W A R D S 2 0 2 1 passed between them throughout comically belt out the truth. their separated lives.

Cutting Edge Theater 767 ROBERT BLVD. SLIDELL

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MARCH 19 - 27 FRI & SAT 8pm

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985.649.3727

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Cele

UNFINISHED MURAL BY MATT LITCHLITER

brate Slidell Murals STORY LIV BUTERA PHOTOS JERRY COTTRELL

I

n May of 2020, Alex Carollo, Slidell’s Director of Cultural Affairs, called me with an idea. He intended to use the budget that would have gone to the multiple cultural events in 2020 and designate it for public art murals celebrating Slidell. As a curator and arts administrator who has worked on several site-specific public art projects such as this, I quickly jumped on board.

“The Celebrate Slidell Public Mural Project was born out of the desire to continue to support artists and the arts in our community amid a pandemic. Since the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs was unable to host any public events after March of 2020, the city used funds allocated for Arts Evening, Bayou Jam concerts, Slidell Movie Nights, etc., to commission artists to create public murals. The murals serve as a thank you to our first responders and health care heroes and celebrate all the wonderful things that make our community a unique and great place to live,” Alex Carollo said of the project’s origins.

“Because a certain amount of funding was about to expire, our department had to move quickly to start the mural project. We selected six artists who were known for their unique artistic styles and talents and who had previous experience creating murals.” Carollo explains.

MURAL BY LORI GOMEZ

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It was at this point that I signed-on as the curatorial consultant for the project. Each artist was commissioned to highlight a different aspect of Slidell. We matched the artists according to their style, connection to the topic and/ or location and medium.

Lori Gomez, known for her large scale fence paintings and community workshops, was chosen for the Celebrate Creativity mural and the Celebrate Healthcare Workers mural.

Gomez, a self-taught artist who prefers acrylics, began her Louisiana-based business in 2002. Some of Lori’s public art projects include a 35-ft Mardi Gras float mural featuring 21 commissioned portraits of riders, located in Olde Towne Slidell. In 2005, Gomez created a life-size nativity that spans over one acre to lift her community’s spirits following Hurricane Katrina. She created a second life-size nativity for the city of Slidell’s public Christmas display and has since been a major contributor to the holiday spectacle. In 2016, Gomez’s poppy fence mural on her property gained international attention. She has since partnered with Beyond Scapes to bring her beautiful flowers to the masses.

The Celebrate Creativity mural is a large interactive mural featuring a butterfly on the fence outside of Lori’s Art Depot on Front Street, where the artist hosts weekly artistic workshops for all ages along with summer art camps. Those viewing the mural are encouraged to stand between the massive wings of the butterfly for a picture.

Gomez’s Celebrate Healthcare Workers mural is located at the Slidell Memorial Hospital Fitness Park. The large fence mural features flowers, a hummingbird and a butterfly.

The mural is centered around the words “Thank You Healthcare Workers,” a testament of gratitude to those who are still working tirelessly for our community through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Artist Phil Galatas was chosen to create the Celebrate the Bayou mural in the Slidell Technology and Cultural Arts building lobby. A native of Slidell with roots running deep along Bayou Liberty, this is not his first time painting Slidell’s bayou landscape. Galatas’ murals can be found at Peck’s Seafood and Palmetto’s in Slidell.

Nancy Pratt and Mary Christopher were chosen to complete murals honoring our first responders. Pratt is a multimedia artist and teacher, dance instructor, event

coordinator and creator of The Guide to Being Fancy.

Known as “Fancy Nancy,” she incorporates her colorful pop aesthetic into all of her art, fashion and lifestyle projects.

You can find her art locally at The Wine Garden, Bella Style Salon, Hope Beauty Bar and in many homes throughout the United States. Collectors can find her wearable art, including light-up holiday headpieces and her fashion line #PUNKFANCY in boutiques and online.

Pratt’s Celebrate our Firefighters is a large Americanastyle mural at the newly constructed St. Tammany Fire Protection District #1 Headquarters on Robert Boulevard.

“The mural is an American flag waving behind the silhouette of a firefighter. Incorporated into the piece are six words to meaningfully represent the six fire districts; five words that serve as the district’s motto: ‘honor, courage, commitment, compassion, and integrity,’ and one I added,” said Pratt, “which is ‘hero.’ May the murals be a tribute to those who have helped us through this historic year and preserve their honor for generations to come.”

“The City of Slidell has welcomed me with open arms as a young artist and has provided opportunities for me to grow and learn as a creator. Whether it has been in high school through a juried ‘Salad Days’ art show or providing support through art markets and events, I’ve been able to show and sell my work to the community I love. I am honored to have been selected to do a mural for the City of Slidell as part of the Celebrate Slidell series. During these uncertain times, the City of Slidell found a way to support not only their artists, but also the first responders and care workers who always have and will remain essential. STFPD1 is an important pillar of our city, so being able to honor them through a mural they are personally connected to and proud of is what I set out to do.” said Pratt.

The mural is now the backdrop for many official events for the St. Tammany Fire Department. Pratt recently completed another commissioned mural near Bella Style Salon in Olde Towne Slidell in memory of Lorrie Kauwe, a beloved team member at the salon and active member in the Slidell community who recently lost her battle with cancer.

The City of Slidell has asked Mary Christopher to create the Slidell Police Department’s mural in Olde Towne Slidell.

As a member of the Slidell Art League, Christopher has competed in the artist of the month competitions, which she credits for developing her drive and skill as a born-again artist. Christopher was the 2010 Art League’s Master Artist of the Year. She was honored by the City of Slidell with a solo exhibition in 2015, and her artwork was featured on the 2018 Slidell Arts Evening poster and subsequently the cover of Slidell Magazine.

Matt Litchliter and Keith Dellsperger are both creating murals in Olde Towne Slidell.

Matt Litchliter is a Slidell artist and has been featured on the cover of Slidell Magazine eight times. He challenges his conceptual processes by experimenting with mixed media, assemblage and found-object wall sculpture. Litchliter also used his painting skills to make a series of works celebrating the rich musical history of the surrounding area. It was this series that became the inspiration for the mural in progress now.

Litchliter’s mural is on the side of Electric Avenue bar.

Like Gomez’s butterfly, the mural is interactive to encourage foot traffic in the area. The Celebration of the Arts mural will feature a musical quartet flanking either side of an arched banner reading “Carey Street.” Passersby will be encouraged to stand beneath the banner for a picture. The mural’s location is by the common stage area for Carey Street crawls and other Olde Towne events. It will serve as a backdrop for the cultural heart of the city.

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“It’s an honor and a privilege to be a part of this project and to showcase my work in my hometown,” said Litchliter.

Keith Dellsperger’s mural will be on the side of KY’s Olde Towne Bicycle Shop. An award-winning artist working and living in Slidell, Dellsperger’s paintings are mostly Louisiana landscapes and architectural landmarks containing vivid color and hinging on the edge of surrealism. Slidell’s picturesque scenery, including its bayous, marshes, old architecture and community members, serve as Dellsperger’s inspiration. The mural commissioned as “A Celebration of Nature” will be no exception. Dellsperger currently serves on the Slidell Commission on the Arts, which helps bring visual and performing arts to the area. His mural is expected to be completed in early spring of this year.

Public art invigorates public spaces, increases foot traffic around small businesses and reveals our cultural uniqueness in an accessible and best-of-all free manner. Public art is not only an act of revitalization, but a public good that multiple studies have shown positively impacts mental health and overall well-being. When so many are struggling with the hardships inflicted by the pandemic, the City of Slidell is dedicated to bringing joy to the community and creating some financial opportunities for both local artists and curators. This project would not have been possible without Mayor Cromer’s support, the City of Slidell Commission on the Arts, Alex Carollo, the participating artists, DAF grant funding and Slidell’s 2020 Cultural Season sponsors.

And, of course, all of our citizens who liked, thanked, shared and enjoyed the murals.

Murals MURAL BY NANCY PRATT

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RESTAURANTS Appetizers Oxlot 9

Asian

Attached Kazoku is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag run as is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app

Bar Food

Columbia Street Tap Room

ST. TAMMANY WEST

Barbecue

Pyre Provisions

Breakfast

OYSTERS Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar 2891 U.S. 190, Mandeville 985.778.2176 felixs.com

Fat Spoon Cafè

Brunch

The Lakehouse

Burger

Times Bar and Grill

Casual Dining The Shack

Catering

Carpool Catering Attached is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag run as is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app

Coffee Shop

The Book & The Bean

Dessert

Hambone

Dining with a View The Lakehouse

Donuts

Peace, Love, and Little Donuts of Covington

ITALIAN Leonardo’s Trattoria & Pizzeria 2625 Florida Street, Mandeville 985.778.2550

Fine Dining

Gallagher’s 527

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PH

French

Café Lynn

Frozen Yogurt

Bop’s Frozen Custard

Greek

Alabasha

Hot Dogs

Bud’s Boiler

Ice Cream

HooDoo Ice Cream

Italian

Leonardo’s Trattoria & Pizzeria

PO BOY Lunchbox Express 1680 Hwy. 59 Ste. 500 Mandeville 985.951.2120 lunchboxexpress.us

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE

Thank you for voting Pardo’s for Best Romantic Restaurant and Best Service!

5280 Highway 22, Mandeville 985.893.3603

Come visit Chef Robert Vasquez, crowned 2020 Seafood King at Forks and Corks!

141 Terra Bella Blvd., Covington 985.273.663

Juice Bar

Blent Juice Bar

Bartender

Paul Calecas

Kid FriendlyPROOF SHEET Chef Hambone

Pat Gallagher

King Cake

Contractor

Mexican

CPA

New

High School Coach

Pizza

Financial Advisor

Po-Boy

Insurance Agent

Lunch Box Express

Melissa Penzato

Romantic

Massage Therapist

Nonna Randazzo’s This ad will Ryan Cartier of of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake magazine. we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or approve via email.

La Carreta’s

Bryon Garrety Josh Priola

Tchefunte’s

PHOTOGRAPHER Abby Sands

By Appt. Only 985.807.3835 abbyphoto.com

McClains Pizzeria

Amanda Miranda

Pardo’s

Salad

Jerrold Rabalais

PROOF SHEET Mortgage Lender

Coffee Rani

Christina Rusca

Seafood

Personal Trainer

Smoothies

Real Estate Agent

The Green Fork

Megan Helwick

Snowballs

Tattoo Artist

Just Chillin’

Jerrod Courville

Soup

Teacher

Tristan Martin Morton’s Seafood Restaurant of of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake magazine. This ad will we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or approve via email.

Photographer Service Abby Sands Pardo’s Restaurant

ATTORNEY Fleur De Lis Law & Title Company - Jered Miguez 207 E Gibson St. Covington LA 985.273.3666 fdltitle.com

Nuvolari’s

E LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONESteak 985 733 4670

Expedia Cruises

Sushi

MEDICAL

Tea

English Tea Room

Thai

Sawasdee

Vietnamese Pho Cong

050

Travel Agent

Gallagher’s 527

Megumi

CPA Garrety & Associates 1795 West Causeway Approach, Ste. 202, Mandeville 985.629.4661 GarretyCPA.com

Michele Tinker

PEEPS Artist

Scott Withington

Attorney

Jared Miguez

EDGE February | March 2021

OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 985 733 4670

Anti-Aging Specialist Kelly Burkenstock, M.D.

Audiologist

J.J. Martinez Au D, CCC-A, FAAA

Cardiologist

Farhad Aduli, M.D.

Chiropractor

All American Healthcare

Cosmetic Surgeon

Benjamin Boudreaux, M.D.

Catering and Events Sunday Brunch 10-3pm

Patio Furniture & Accessories

985.888.6125 pyrerestaurant.com

Visit our showroom for a large selection of patio furniture on display!

Hammocks & Accessories

Umbrellas & Bases

Gas and Charcoal Grills

Wood & Gas Fire Pits

Since 1988 1331 N. Highway 190, Covington Open Monday thru Friday 9 to 5 Saturday 9 to 5:30 www.outdoorlivingcenter.com

Chaises for Patio or Pool EDGE February | March 2021

051

Dermatologist

Art Gallery

Dentist

Author

Eric Tabor, M.D.

Daniela Evergard, D.D.S.

Doctor

Rachel Murphy, M.D.

Saladino Gallery Erica Spindler

Attached is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag Band run as is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app 4 Unplugged

Eye Doctor

Charity Event

Katy Wonk, M.D.

Men Who Cook

Home Health

Dance Studio

St Tammany Health Systems Home Health

Ballet Apetrei

Hospice

Olympia

St Tammany Health Systems Hospice

Hospital

St Tammany Health Systems

Medical Testing Facility

Diagnostic Imaging Services

OB/GYN

Vicki Steen, M.D.

Oncologist

Jay Saux, M.D.

Orthodontist

Amy Sawyer, D.D.S.

Orthopedist

Tim Devraj, M.D.

Pain Doctor

Shaun Carpenter, M.D.

Pediatrician

Kathryn Quarles, M.D.

Phlebologist (Vein)

Randall Juleff, M.D.

Physical Therapist

Michelle Sierra, M.D.

Surgery Center AVALA

Parade

Festival

Three Rivers Art Festival

Theatre Group

30 by Ninety Theatre

SPORTS AND LEISURE

Bed and Breakfast Attached is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake ma

Blue Heron Bed andwe Breakfast run as is unless receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or ap

Children’s Playground Koop Drive

Fitness Studio Crossfit Francos

Golf Course Money Hill

Health Club Stone Creek

HOSPICE St. Tammany Health Systems Hospice 725 W. 11th Ave., Covington 985.871.5976 stph.org/homehealthhospice

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE Indoor Sports Facility

Mandeville Sports Complex

Karate Studio

Covington Karate

Pilates

Club Pilates

Public Park

Bogue Falaya Park

Veterinarian

Liza Ledet, D.V.M.

Swim Club

ALL THINGS ARTY

Tennis Courts

Art Classes

Painting with a Twist

FINS at Franco’s Stone Creek Health Club & Spa

Tourist Attraction Bayou Adventures

052

HOME HEALTH St. Tammany Health Systems Home Health 725 W. 11th Ave., Covington 985.898.4414 stph.org/homehealthhospice

EDGE February | March 2021

HOSPITAL St.Tammany Health Systems 1202 S. Tyler St., Covington 985.898.4000 stph.org

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE

PROOF SHEET

our ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake magazine. This ad will eive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or approve via email.

Attached is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the La run as is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes

URGENT CARE Rapid Urgent Care 218 E. Boston St. Covington / 985.875.0077 1111 N. Causeway Blvd., Ste. 2, Mandeville 985.674.4464 / Rapidurgentcare.com

CARDIOLOGIST Farhad Aduli MD. 20 Starbrush Cir, Covington 985.777.7000 louisianaheart.org

PROOF SHEET

Attached is aofproof of of your thatmagazine. will run in This the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag ur ad that will run in the February/March issue EDGE thead Lake ad will is unless receive changes by ( 1 . 1via 5 . 2email.

0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app ive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 Prun M . as Please makewe any changes or approve

PHYSICAL THERAPIST Michelle Sierra - Dynamic Physical Therapy 653 Myrtle Drive, Covington 985.893.4700 getwellatdynamic.com

VETERINARIAN & PET GROOMING Mandeville Animal Hospital - Liza Ledet, DVM 419 Girod Street, Mandeville 985.377.0800 mandevilleah.com

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE

OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 985 733 4670

ORTHODONTIST Dr. Amy Smith Sawyer Sawyer Orthodontics 216 W. 21st Ave., Covington 985.327.7181 / sawyerortho.com

054

DENTAL Allure Dental 1901 US 190, Ste. 14, Mandeville 985.951.2220 alluredentalhealth.com

E LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 985 733 4670 EDGE February | March 2021

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PH

R E A D E R S ’

C H O I C E

A W A R D S

2 0 2 1

F L U , P N E U M O N I A & S H I N G L E S V A C C I N AT I O N S

|

GIFT SHOP

|

D E L I V E RY

1107 S. Ty l er St. C o v i ng to n | 9 8 5 . 8 9 2 . 0 8 1 8 | b r a s w e l l d r u g s . c o m

a family owned Northshore institution, known for food, fun and living well.

R E A D E R S ’

C H O I C E

A W A R D S

2 0 2 1

MANDEVILLE

COVINGTON

SLIDELL

985.951.2501

985.893.0593

985.259.4136

www.acquistapace.com EDGE February | March 2021

055

Yoga

Florist

NIGHTLIFE

Furniture

Just Breathe Yoga

Bar

Grapeful Ape

Bloody Mary Old Rail

Florist of Covington Doerr Furniture

Attached is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag Hardware Store we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app run as is unless Ace Mandeville

Health Food

Another Beautiful Day

Daiquiri

Pyre Provisions

Happy Hour Bistro Byronz

Live Music Venue

Columbia Street Tap Room

Margarita

Habanaros

Home Décor

Greige Home Interiors

Jewelry

Lowe’s Jewlers

Kid’s Shoes

Joe’s Family Shoe Store

DAY SPA Stone Creek Club & Spa 1201 Ochsner Blvd., Covington 985.801.7100 stonecreekclubandspa.com

Lighting

Pine Grove Electrical Supply

Martini

Cypress Bar/ Southern Hotel

Place to go Dancing Ruby’s Roadhouse

Sports Bar

Walk On’s Sports Bistreaux

SHOPPING

Lingerie Store Bra Genie

Attached is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag Meat Saia’s Meat Market run asSuper is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app

Pharmacy

Braswell’s Pharmacy

Antiques

Swimwear

Baby/ Children’s Store

Men’s Clothing

Bakery

Men’s Shoes

Bridal Boutique

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 9 Outdoor Living

Mae Antiques Baby’s Corner

Mandeville Bake Shop Olivia Couture Bridal Boutique

Car Dealership

Honda of Covington

Consignment Style Encore

Garden Center Garden Spot

Gifts

Southern Avenue

Jos. A. Banks

Joe’s Family Shoe Store

Fabrics Second To None

Sporting Goods

Massey’s Outfitters

Sunglasses

Sunglass Hut

Supermarket Rouses Market

Teen Boutique

Columbia Street Mercantile

Tires

T’ween Boutique Blossom Girl

Jim Owens

056

GIFTS Southern Avenue 70488 Hwy. 21, Covington 985.871.1466 shopsouthernavenue.com

Outdoor Living Center

Tire World

Fabrics

Flooring

Bra Geanie

EDGE February | March 2021

CONSIGNMENT Style Encore 4244 Hwy. 22, Ste.3, Mandeville 985.674.7774 style-encoremandeville.com

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 9

THANK YOU FOR VOTING AND CONGRATULATIONS TO WASHINGTON PARISH READERS’ CHOICE FAVORITES

EAST ST. TAMMANY READERS’ CHOICE FAVORITES

Brian Fong, MD Favorite Orthopedic Surgeon

Our Lady of the Angels Hospital Favorite Hospital

Southern Surgical Hospital (now Our Lady of the Lake Surgical Hospital) Favorite Surgery Center

Maria Christina Buenaflor, MD Favorite OB/GYN

WEST ST. TAMMANY READERS’ CHOICE FAVORITES

Raghubir Mangat, MD Favorite Pediatrician

Steven Ogden, MD Favorite Internist

Timothy Devraj, MD Favorite Orthopedic Surgeon

EDGE February | March 2021

057

Attached is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag run as is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING Fashions for Kids 1868 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville 985.626.4848 fashionsforkids.net Wine

Elementary School (Public)

Woman’s Boutique

Emergency Restoration

Woman’s Shoes

Financial Institution

SERVICES

Hair Removal

Acquistapace’s

The Villa Shoefflè

Acting School Creating U

Air Conditioning Service and Repair Professional Heat and Air

Architect Firm

Greenleaf Lawson Architects

HARDWARE Ace Hardware Mandeville 2445 Florida Street, Mandeville 985.626.3113 acehardware.com

Madisonville Elementary

Servpro

Heritage Bank is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the La Attached run as is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes

WAX’D

Hair Salon H2O

High School (Private) St. Paul’s School

High School (Public)

Mandeville High School

FINANCIAL INSTITUTION Heritage Bank 205 N. Columbia St., Covington 985.892.4565 heritagebank.org

EDGE LA OF 70433 THE LAKE • 69170 E LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, • PHONE 985HWY 733 190.

4670SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 9

Builder

Integrity Builders

Car Wash

Pelican Pointe

Cooking Classes Culinary Kids

Day Spa

Kid’s Hair Cut Stadium Cut

Kid’s Party Venue

Franco’s Health Club & Spa

Landscape Services Smoketree Landscape

Stone Creek Health Club & Spa

Mani Pedi Spa

Dry Cleaner

Mechanic Shop

Shelby’s Cleaners

Christian Brothers Automotive

Electrician

Mortgage Company

Electrical Rescue

Nola Lending

Elementary School (Private)

Music School Louisiana

Christ Episcopal School

058

EM ME

Northlake Academy of Music

EDGE February | March 2021

PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS Fully Promoted 301 North Hwy. 190 Suite A3, Covington 985.624.9718 fpcovington.com

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US YOUR FAVORITE WOMANS’ BOUTIQUE!

R E A D E R S ’

C H O I C E

A W A R D S

2 0 2 1

NORTHSHORE’S MOST PREMIER WATERFRONT DINING EXPERIENCE Overlooking the Tchefuncte River—from which the restaurant draws name, inspiration, and ingredients whenever possible—Tchefuncte’s celebrates the highlights of the season, rooted in classic Southern cuisine. With views of the scenic Tchefuncte River, the experience is transcending.

Lunch | Dinner | Sunday Brunch Closed Monday

Best

Voted New Restaurant

tchefunctes.com | 985-323-4800 407 St. Tammany Street, Madisonville

R E A D E R S ’

C H O I C E 2 0 2 1

A W A R D S

FOLLOW US @Tchefunctes @tchefunctes

EDGE February | March 2021

059

LTM Travel 011420.pdf

1

1/14/21

10:50 AM

C

M

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CM

MY

CY

CMY

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Time stands still for only a moment

985.773.2227

joeltreadwell.com

27207 Highway 190 Lacombe, LA 70445

985-882-7201 janiebrownsrest.com

VOTED BEST ORTHODONTIST

Free Exam and X-Rays • Fun and Caring Team • Same Day Braces All-Inclusive Treatment • Flexible Financial Options

Dr. Brian Duvernay

060

EDGE February | March 2021

985.641.1115 SMILEDOCTORS.COM

Dr. Eun-Chee Lee

ha

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t ore

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us nj

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EDGE of the Lake Readers’ Choice Award for Best Oysters!

R E A D E R S ’

C H O I C E

A W A R D S

2 0 2 1

MARDI GRAS KISS Sipping this Rum & Pineapple fave is as fun as a parade on Bourbon!

KING CAKE DAQUIRI A refreshing frozen cocktail with the right touch of sweetness. It’s a cocktail that screams “Laissez Le Bon Temps Rouler!”

FELIX HURRICANE This Hurricane is composed of two types of Rum! It’s sweet, fruity and boozy, so it contains all the hallmarks of a good party drink!

COURT JESTER The Jester is made with a blend of secret premiums ingredients that gives it a unique flavor and bright Mardi Gras green color!

985.778.2176 | 2891 HIGHWAY 190 SUITE D. MANDEVILLE | FELIXS.COM

(In front of the Pelican Athletic Club) EDGE February | March 2021

061

PROOF SHEET

ur ad that will run in the February/March issue of proof EDGEofofyour the ad Lake ad will Attached is a thatmagazine. will run inThis the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag ive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 Prun M . as Please makewe any changes or approve is unless receive changes by ( 1 .via 1 5 . 2email.

0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app

REAL ESTATE AGENT Megan Helwick/Keller Williams 1522 W. Causeway Approach, Mandeville 504.453.4655 meganhelwick.com

MORTGAGE LENDER Christina Rusca loanDepot 34 Louis Prima Blvd. Ste. A Covington 985.272.7064 crusca@loandepot.com

PROOF SHEET

Attached is aofproof of of your thatmagazine. will run in This the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag ur ad that will run in the February/March issue EDGE thead Lake ad will is unless receive changes by ( 1 . 1via 5 . 2email.

0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app ive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 Prun M . as Please makewe any changes or approve

MUSIC SCHOOL Northlake Academy of Music 375 Asbury Dr., Mandeville 985.778.0786

ART CLASSES Painting with a Twist - Mandeville 2121 N. Causeway Blvd. Mandeville 985.626.6272 paintingwithatwist.com/mandeville

E LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, EDGE LA OF70433 THE LAKE • PHONE • 69170 985HWY 733 4670 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE

PET BOARDING Camp Bow Wow 14279 Hwy. 1085, Covington 985.892.9364 campbowwow.com/covington

PRIVATE HIGH SCHOOL St. Paul’s School 917 S Jahncke Ave, Covington 985.892.3200 stpauls.com

LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, • PHONE 985HWY 733 4670 EDGE LA OF70433 THE LAKE • 69170 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 9

062

EDGE February | March 2021

Thanks for voting NOLA Lending Group

FA V O R I T E M O R T G A G E L E N D E R C O M PA N Y

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The services and products advertised are not approved or endorsed by HUD, USDA, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or any government agency. This does not constitute an offer to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval. Not all applicants will qualify for all products offered. All loan programs, terms and interest rates are subject to change without notice. Fidelity Bank Co. NMLS# 488639

Favorite Chef

Covington 985.892.9992

Favorite Steak and Fine Dining

Mandeville 985.778.2820

Favorite Steak & Service

Slidell

985.326.8350 EDGE February | March 2021

063

PROOF SHEET

Attached is a proof of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake mag run as is unless we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app of of your ad that will run in the February/March issue of EDGE of the Lake magazine. This ad will we receive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or approve via email.

TIRES Tire World Car Care Center 1806 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville 985.626.8538 Tireworldccc.com

CHILDREN AND MENS SHOES Joe’s Family Shoe Store 1814 N. Causeway Blvd., #4, Mandeville 985.626.5633 joesfamilyshoes.com

PROOF SHEET

ur ad that will run in the February/March Attached issue is a of proof EDGEofofyour the ad Lake thatmagazine. will run inThis the February/March ad will issue of EDGE of the Lake mag ive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 Prun M . Please as is unless makewe anyreceive changes changes or approve by ( 1 .via 1 5 . 2email.

0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app

LANDSCAPE SERVICES Smoketree Landscape 13384 Seymour Meyers Blvd., Covington 985.792.0678 smoketreelandscape.com

AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE AND REPAIR Professional Heating & Air 594 Asbury Dr., Suite E3, Mandeville 985.602.9364 airpro.me

EDGE LA OF 70433 THE LAKE • 69170 E LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, • PHONE 985HWY 733 190.

4670SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 9

PRINTER Speedway Printing 2575 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville 985.626.0032 speedwayprinting.net

064

EDGE February | March 2021

SENIOR LIVING Christwood 100 Christwood Blvd. Covington 985.898.0515 Christwoodrc.com

EDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 9

OF THE LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 985 733 4670

2018, 2019, 2020, 2021

FAVORITE COSMETIC SURGEON

Benjamin Boudreaux, MD | Jeffrey Claiborne, MD www.drboudreaux.com

lt’s quick, easy and done right here!

Full-Service COVID-19 Vaccination for Residents & Team Members

The federal government and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have recommended to all state authorities that senior living and care communities become a priority to receive the COVID-19 vaccines. This means residents of Discovery Senior Living communities are wellpositioned for vaccination before most others and the general public. And that makes right now an excellent time to select The Trace as your forever home!

CALL 985.317.3915 TO LEARN MORE!

www.DSL.Link/TT0213

19432 Crawford Road, Covington, LA 70433

Active Independent Living | Assisted Living | SHINE® Memory Care ©2021 Discovery Senior Living. All Rights Reserved. Prices, plans and programs are subject to change or withdrawal without notice. Void where prohibited by law. Managed and Operated by Discovery Senior Living. TT-0213 1/21.

EDGE February | March 2021

065

PROOF SHEET

ur ad that will run in the February/March Attached issue is a of proof EDGEofofyour the ad Lake thatmagazine. will run inThis the February/March ad will issue of EDGE of the Lake mag ive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 Prun M . Please as is unless makewe anyreceive changes changes or approve by ( 1 .via 1 5 . 2email.

0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app

DINING WITH A VIEW AND BRUNCH The Lakehouse Restaurant 2025 Lakeshore Dr., Mandeville 985.626.3006 lakehousecuisine.com

SEAFOOD Morton’s Seafood Restaurant & Bar 702 Water Street, Madisonville 985.845.4970 mortonsseafood.com

PROOF SHEET

ur ad that will run in the February/March Attached issue is a of proof EDGEofofyour the ad Lake thatmagazine. will run inThis the February/March ad will issue of EDGE of the Lake mag ive changes by ( 1 . 1 5 . 2 0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 Prun M . Please as is unless makewe anyreceive changes changes or approve by ( 1 .via 1 5 . 2email.

0 2 1 )a t 5 : 0 0 P M . Please make any changes or app

KID FRIENDLY AND CASUAL BURGER The Shack Times Grill HWY 190. SUITE 1 •Mandeville COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 1204 West 21st Ave., Covington, LaEDGE OF THE LAKE • 69170 1896 N. Causeway Blvd., / 985.626.1161 985.888.6288 1827 Front St., Slidell / 985.639.3335 theshackcovington.com timesgrill.com LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 985 733 4670

KING CAKE Nonna Randazzo’s Bakery 2033 N. Hwy. 190 Suite 5, Covington 22022 Marshall Rd., Mandeville 985.893.1488 / 985.898.2444 / nonnarandazzos.com

066

SMOOTHIES Green Fork 69305 Hwy. 21, Covington 985.900.2200 GreenForkNOLA.com

E LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, EDGE LA OF70433 THE LAKE • PHONE • 69170 985HWY 733 4670 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE EDGE February | March 2021

MANDEVILLE

SLIDELL

COMPLETE AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

R E A D E R S ’

C H O I C E

A W A R D S

2 0 2 1

Reader’s Choice Winners 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021

• A clean, comfortable waiting area • Free Wi-Fi

Readers’ Choice 2021 Best Burger!!

• Complimentary beverages • Access to our free shuttle service • Our courtesy inspection to ensure the health of your car • Our 3-year/36,000-mile Nice Difference Warranty 4376 Highway 22 | Mandeville, LA

Jeff and Crista Madison owners, with Family

1896 N. Causeway Blvd.

985.626.1161 Hours: Monday thru Thursday 11am-8pm/Friday-Sunday 11am-8:30pm

1827 Front Street 985.639.3335 Sunday thru Thursday 11am-8pm/Friday & Saturday 11am-9pm

www.timesgrill.com

| 985.951.2346

Are You Experiencing the First Signs of a Hearing Loss?

We often have our teeth checked, our eyes checked and our blood-pressure tested, but when was the last time you had a hearing test?

Sound familiar?

If so, then SLENT Hearing & Balance Center encourages you to visit one of our hearing centers in Hammond, Slidell or Mandeville, LA for a hearing test. We’ll test your hearing, and identify if a hearing loss is at play, and if so, provide you with some treatment options.

A recent worldwide study* confirmed that eight out of ten hearing aid users reported they had a profound positive impact on their quality of life, including improved relationships at home and work and a better sense of safety and independence.

Hearing loss doesn’t happen overnight. It is a gradual process over the years, so it isn’t LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE 985 733 4670 noticeable at first. But at some point, things Download Our Free Guide “The Early will start to change. A few common signs of Symptoms of a Hearing Loss to Look hearing loss include finding conversations Out For” Written by Dr. JJ Martinez hard to follow, turning the TV’s volume up louder than usual, and asking people to Visit slenthearing.com/free-guide repeat themselves. *Source: Findings of EuroTrak Dr. JJ Martinez, AuD, CCC-A, FAAA Doctor of Audiology, Board Certified Audiologist

You might not think too much of it at first, or, despite any frustrations it is causing you, you might decide to put treatment off for “another day.” Often friends and family are the first to notice one’s hearing loss before it becomes a real challenge for the sufferer.

Slidell | Hammond | Mandeville

2015 (ET 2015) and MarkeTrak 9 (MT9) worldwide studies about hearing loss and hearing aids.

Call 985-273-5795 Visit www.slenthearing.com EDGE February | March 2021

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GlampinG STORY SARAH COTTRELL PHOTOS JERRY AND COLIN COTTRELL

lastateparks.com bayouadventure.com tentrr.com

30.3376° N

G

lamping? The word was coined in 2006 and added to the Oxford English Dictionary four years ago. Glamping is camping, but with some of the comforts of home . . . because, let’s face it, we don’t all like to rough it.

Luxury camping has been around for centuries. For example, the palatial tent living during the 1520 Diplomatic Summit between King Henry Vlll of England and King Francis of France. And, of course, yurts have been a distinctive feature of life in Central Asia for at least 3,000 years. More recently – in the early 1920’s – African safaris became very popular among the wealthy. Not wanting to sacrifice luxury, accommodations were equipped with generators, beds and cases of champagne.

Those lucky enough to experience one of these African safaris were given a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in nature with almost all of the comforts of home.

Last November, Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser unveiled an innovative way to glamp in eight Louisiana State parks, and one of them is Fontainbleau. The State has partnered with Tentrr and Bayou Adventure to set up more than 12 fullyequipped, safari-style tent sites around Fontainebleau Park. Each turnkey camping site was hand-picked for its unique, natural beauty and proximity to recreational activities. “This partnership makes experiencing the natural beauty of Louisiana more accessible by making camping easier and more comfortable. It’s a great option for busy people with no time to plan a camping trip or for people who don’t want to invest in camping equipment,” said Nungesser.

I reached out to Christina Cooper, VP of Communications, Marketing and PR for the St. Tammany Parish Tourist and Convention Commission to ask her about her glamping experience. She said “Glamping at Fontainebleau was a wonderful experience for my family. We were able to disconnect from everyday distractions and reconnect with each other and with nature. The basic camping necessities plus the creature comforts provided for us by Tentrr enabled us to effortlessly enjoy an unforgettable family adventure. I look forward to recommending glamping to visitors and the media.”

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Well, with that glowing review, I had to check it out for myself.

Three of the sites at Fontainebleau are only accessible by water, so that factored into my planning. I wanted the full immersive experience, so I booked one of the remote locations. Once everything was booked, I called Shannon Bordelon – owner of Bayou Adventure – to rent our canoes. After the canoes were booked, her next question was, ‘How can we spoil you?” She didn’t have to ask twice. I ordered sandwiches to have upon our arrival, fire wood, beverages and Alligator Sausage to cook for dinner along with a s’mores kit. All I had to do was pack our bedding and a change of clothes. For the other sites that are accessible via car, supplies can be picked up at Bayou Adventures in Lacombe on your way to the park.

So, on a cool December morning my husband and son loaded up the truck, and we headed to Fontainebleau Park in Mandeville where I had arranged to meet the local Tentrr representative, Patrick McPike. Patrick had recently returned from college in Colorado, where he had grown a deep love of the outdoors. His job with Tentrr is clearly a perfect fit for him.

Shannon and Patrick had our canoes and supplies ready to go. It’s important to remember that it you chose a remote site, everything you need has to be taken via canoe. We loaded up and set off on our overnight adventure. The paddle to the site didn’t take long, and the directions were simple to follow. We came across the site, set on its own beach, and pulled our canoe onto the beach and set out to explore. The site was outfitted with a queen-sized cot and memory foam mattress, a heater, portable toilet, Adirondack chairs, a fire pit, a grill and a picnic table. These sites also offer pop-up tents to accommodate a group larger than two.

We had everything we needed, so we set about making our fire and preparing dinner. Glamping is much more than a nice tent for me. It’s about being in the middle of stunning nature with my family creating lifelong memories.

To find all of the Louisiana State Parks with glamping sites, check out LaStateParks.com.

Happy Glamping y’all!

RESTAURANTS

Vietnamese

The Dragon Palace

PEOPLE

Asian

Bar Food

Time Out Bar & Grill

Barbecue

Mill Town Barbeque

Craig McMillan

Attorney

Jason Mickenheim

Art Classes

Summer Stewart

Art Gallery

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Theatre Group

High School Coach

Franklinton Community Theater

Brunch

CPA

Walter Buddy Adams

SPORTS AND LEISURE

Burger

Insurance Agent

HL Brownstone Fitness

Casual

Personal Trainer

Coffee

Photographer Bert Burr

The Museum of Native American Culture

Coffee Shop

Real Estate Agent

Place to Run/Walk

Yoyo’s Mexican Restaurant Long Branch Cafè

Golden Pear First Cup Coffee

WASHINGTON

Artist

ALL THINGS ARTY

Breakfast

The Golden Pear

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Pho 102

Michael Cummings

Chris Workmen Brandi Burdete

Fitness Studio Golf Course

Bogalusa Country Club

Museum

Namatasty

Heather Bush Seal

Fried Chicken Sugar Shack

Tattoo Artist Troy Carney

Public Park

Italian

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Swim Club

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Alisa Thomas

Mexican

MEDICAL

Maria’s Mexican Restaurant

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Golden Pear

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Yamato’s Steak House of Japan

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Dentist

Mitou Lemarie, D.D.S

Hospital

Our Lady of the Angels

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Steven Ogden, M.D.

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Maria Buenaflor, M.D.

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Marc Hautot, O.D.

Pediatrician

Raghubir Mangat, M.D.

Physical Therapist Jay Schultz, M.P.T

Urgent Care

Cassidy Park

Bogue Chitto State Park

Bogalusa YMCA

Tourist Attraction

Bogue Chitto Tubing Center

NIGHTLIFE Bar

Yoyo’s Bar & Grill

Daiquiri

Union Square

Happy Hour

Bogalusa Country Club

Margarita

Maria’s Mexican

Place to listen to Music Sugar Shack

Sports Bar

Time Out Bar & Grill

Rapid Urgent Care

SHOPPING

Veterinarian

Esma’s Antiques

The Animal Place

Antique

BREAKFAST, CASUAL, SOUP AND SALAD Golden Pear 225 Louisiana Ave Bogalusa 985.735.1199

MEXICAN RESTAURANT Maria’s Mexican Restaurant 200 Austin St. Bogalusa 982.732.3013

Bakery

Supermarket

Home Health

Bargain Shopping

Tires

Hospice

Magic City Tires & Services

Rescare

Highway 104.7

Teen Boutique

Insurance

Real Estate

Cinnamon Tree Dirt Cheap

Car Dealership

Larry Pack’s Best Buy Autoplex

Children’s Clothing Little Feet Boutique

Garden Center Garden Spot

Gifts

Chiffarobe

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Jack Browns

Silver Leaf

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Printer/Copier Service

Ameracare

Delta Printing

Radio Station

Bill McGehee Insurance

GAR Real Estate

Kids Party Venue

ResCare

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The Pumping Station

Bogalusa County Club

Woman’s Boutique

Mani Pedi Spa

Believe

Pet Boarding

The Louisiana Castle

Chiffarobe- Sarah

SERVICES

Air Conditioning Service and Repair

Summer Camps

Magic Nails

Wedding Venue

Bella’s Paws Spa

Yoga

Riverstone Gallery Pet Grooming Carney’s Furniture & Bella’s Paws Spa E LAKE • 69170 HWY 190. SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, EDGE LA OF 70433 THE LAKE • PHONE • 69170 985HWY 733 190.

4670SUITE 1 • COVINGTON, LA 70433 • PHONE Appliances Floral Connection

Furniture

Carney’s Furniture & Appliances

Dance Studio

Hardware Store

Dry Cleaner

Jewelry

Elementary School (Private)

Meat

Financial Institution

Jack Browns

Lee Finance

Men’s Clothing

Hair Salon

Pharmacy

High School (Public)

Barber’s Hardware & Repair

Tyler Ross Jewelry

Chiffarobe

Neilsen’s Pharmacy

Southern Sass Dance Company Bogalusa Cleaners & Laundry

February/March

15, Issue 2021 | Volume

1

For Readers’ Choice Awards in Tangipahoa go to tangilifestyles.com

Annunciation Catholic School

Salon 16

Franklinton High School 5 Favorite Thin

gs Dr. David

e Allen | SLU Polic

Chief Michael

Beckner | Read

ers' Choice

Awards

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St. Tammany NOW

St. Tammany Distance from Major Metros in the U.S. Baton Rouge: 80 miles, Houston: 350 miles, Atlanta: 450 miles, Dallas: 500 miles, Chicago: 900 miles

St.

Tammany NOW is a curated collection of the latest economic development information and business and industry insight in our community directly from St. Tammany Corporation, the economic development organization for St. Tammany. We began partnering with EDGE of the Lake on this featured section in the summer of 2020. Since then, we have shared how we define economic development in St. Tammany, identified our target industries for business retention and business attraction, and showcased our data and research publications through their online platform. This year, we want to highlight what and who makes the St. Tammany business community thrive and illustrate the opportunities to diversify and fortify our economy.

When we launched our five-year economic development strategic plan, THRIVE2023, in February 2019, we shared a bold strategy for our community. Our vision at St. Tammany Corporation is to strategically align the economic landscape in St. Tammany to be the destination of choice for highly skilled talent, business formation, attraction, expansion, and retention. One of the ways we are bringing this vision to fruition is by telling the St. Tammany story directly to industry leaders throughout the country. This includes publishing articles in economic development

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industry publications, sponsoring and participating in national economic development conferences, engaging with national site selectors, and serving on industry panels.

These are all opportunities to share the specific, data driven reasons why St. Tammany is a place for people, businesses, and communities to thrive. We believe that our competitive advantage lies in three main areas: strategic geographic location, desirable, available land; and a skilled and talented workforce.

Connectivity is crucial for businesses, and St. Tammany’s proximity to major infrastructure access points can mean efficiencies for companies looking to grow. The intersection of major interstates I-10, I-12, and I-59 on the eastern side of the parish and I-55 right next door in Tangipahoa is a distinct advantage for getting people and products where they need to go. There are also two international airports and 21 airports within 50 miles of our community. Our proximity to the Port of New Orleans, the Port of South Louisiana, the Port of Manchac, and the Port of St. Bernard offers access to 30-plus major inland hubs such as Memphis, Chicago, and Canada via 14,500 miles of waterways. We are also in proximity to six Class I railroads and intersection of 4 major interstate roadways. St. Tammany is also located in reasonable distance to major metropolitan areas:

In addition to these infrastructure assets, St. Tammany also boasts desirable and available land for businesses to locate. Currently, St. Tammany is home to nine Louisiana Economic Development Certified Sites. As stated on the LED website, “LED Certified Sites are development-ready industrial sites. LED certification is granted after an extensive application process and exhaustive review. The benefits of certification include official acknowledgement of a site’s suitability and readiness and improved success in the site selection process. The program’s rigorous review process is conducted by an independent, third-party engineering firm.”

These sites provide opportunities for companies looking for build-to-suit options for their expansion, relocation, or new business location. The site certification designation is also helpful when companies are assessing the timeline needed to bring their vision to fruition on these development ready properties. Proximity and place are critical pieces of the decision-making process, but people are perhaps the most essential component.

Whether you have lived here for years or are just visiting for the day, you might notice that there is something special about the people here. Yes, we have the Southern hospitality that many have come to expect and the zest for life and celebration that those in Southeast Louisiana are known for.

Chris Masingill Chief Executive Officer St. Tammany Corporation

The talented St. Tammany workforce is comprised of highly skilled individuals who bring that same passion for life and commitment to excellence to their work.

Current workforce stats: • Labor force participation (2019): 62.2% (Percent of working-age, able adults in the labor force) • Adults over age 25 with associate’s degrees or higher: 39.7% • Median age (2019): 40.4 (Half of the population is older and half is younger than the median age) • Average annual wage: $46,805 Source: Census Bureau

Certified Sites in St. Tammany Source.: Entergy Database Powered by ESRI

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Northshore Technical Community College Lacombe campus, Photo courtesy of St. Tammany Corporation

Our access to educational institutions in the region, especially our primary higher education partner Northshore Technical Community College in Lacombe, presents the opportunity to train and educate lifelong learners at all levels and a vast array of disciplines. In addition to NTCC, there are 36 higher education institutions within a 70-mile radius of St. Tammany, plus an excellent public school system with career and technical training programs. St. Tammany businesses can recruit employees from these institutions and retain local talent in the area as those employees pursue their own educational goals.

There is considerable discussion in national economic development circles that midsize markets will have tremendous opportunities over the next few years. According to USPS residential change-of-address data, nearly 16 million people moved either temporarily or permanently during just six months last year, from February to July, an increase from the same months in 2019. A Pew Research poll also found that one in ďŹ ve people either moved because of the pandemic or know someone who did. Many of these relocations have been from large metropolitan areas to more aordable, midsize cities with more room for personal space. This trend, set in motion by the coronavirus pandemic, plus the increased acceptance of remote

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work, represents an important opportunity for midsize markets like the greater New Orleans area to take advantage of a potential “brain gain” by attracting the professionals leaving large cities and looking to plant new roots.

Many say that these markets provide the desired access to other regional markets, already have lifestyle elements of arts, culture, and recreation that are valued by the residents and visitors alike, and have the space needed for new business ventures to establish and grow to scale. New Orleans is a region that is poised to maximize this opportunity, and St. Tammany Corporation is ready to help businesses find the location and employees needed to set them up for long-term success in our community. Another important note is that the industry sectors many anticipate will experience growth in coming years are also the target industry sectors identified in our strategic plan, THRIVE2023: transportation and logistics, scientific and technical companies, and business and professional services. We look forward to sharing our community’s attributes, assets, and opportunities with those who are exploring new locations to advance their organizations and expand their footprints.

Happening Now February is Black History Month, and March is Women’s History Month. According to the Census Bureau’s 2018 Annual Business Survey, nationwide, there are more than 124,000 Black-owned businesses with at least one employee. Additionally, 19% of all businesses with at least one employee were femaleled, and 36.1% of all Black-owned businesses were headed by women. That is the highest share of businesses within any racial or ethnic group. Use the hashtag #StTammanyTHRIVES on social media to recognize an outstanding Black-owned or woman-owned St. Tammany business.

Stay connected with St. Tammany Corporation on Facebook at @StTammanyCorporation, Twitter at @StTammanyCorp, our website at StTammanyCorp.org, or our data and research platform at StTammanyStats.com.

Ashley Llewellyn and Elizabeth Lee are the lead staff contributors to this article.

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Foie Gras IN THE DEEP SOUTH

STORY ELAINE MILLERS PHOTOS BACKWATER DUCK FARM

F

oie gras is perhaps one of the most misunderstood foods. Foie gras translates to ‘liver fat’ and has been a delicacy for thousands of years. It is believed to have originated with the ancient Egyptians who observed that migratory ducks and geese store fat in their livers.

While a fatty liver is unhealthy in humans, it is a biological necessity for migratory waterfowl. Lipogenesis, as it’s called, occurs primarily in the liver for these birds, and great stores of fat are kept there for the long journey southward.

Foie gras production is a mimicry of this natural process. Just as we’ve observed the ability of the cow to grow on grass and bulk up on grain, and then have replicated this process en masse for food production, so have we observed the duck’s ability to grow on grass, bugs and mixed grains, and to fatten its liver on corn.

At Backwater Duck Farm in Bush, the McKnight and Dias families have put a onetime dream into reality. The name of the farm plays homage to Percy Walker, who referred to Covington as the ‘back water of a back water.’ Oh, how things have changed. I wonder what Mr. Percy would think of Covington being home to one of the only four foie gras farms in America.

Dan and Julie McKnight, along with their son, Ross, are natives of Louisiana and have lived on the Northshore since 1992. Ross and his wife, Dorothy, manage the day-to-day operations of the farm with the help of their children.

Laurent and Mailys Dias came on the scene in late 2018 when they moved from Toulouse, France to the Mandeville area. They are the inspiration for the core product.

The farm started out as a dream for the McKnights, who many years ago wanted to do something right by humanity and right by the land. For several years, Ross and Dorothy practiced intensive farming techniques on a 1-acre homestead in Covington. While raising laying hens, meat chickens, pastured rabbit, and keeping a kitchen garden, they learned a great deal about sustainable farming and animal husbandry.

In 2018, Ross and Dorothy met Laurent and Mailys, who shared their love of the delectable foie gras produced in the French countryside. In their research, they discovered that all of the foie gras currently served in the U.S. is “imported” from New York or Canada. It seemed to them that Louisiana, with its rich French heritage, should have a part to play in this story. Moreover, many Americans view foie gras as a fancy item to be ordered at a whitetablecloth restaurant. Their vision was to make foie gras more accessible, so that it could grace the dinner tables of their friends and family as often as it was wanted, thus incorporating it into our Louisiana food culture.

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In the spring of 2019, they purchased their first ducklings, putting them out on pasture at three weeks, moving them as needed to fresh grass and feeding them a healthy diet for weight gain. They started gavage (the hand-feeding of male ducks to produce foie gras) that July, and had their first samples ready for customers and chefs that August. In October 2019, they relocated the farm to 12 beautiful acres in Bush, with plenty of pasture and room to grow, and named it Back Water Farm.

Like most farmers, they are in the business of respecting their animals. When the ducklings arrive, they are kept in a warm brooder until they reach three weeks of age, at which point they are put out on a rotational grass pasture system.

From Week 3 to Week 12, they enjoy sunshine, forage, clean water and fermented feed. During the last two weeks on pasture, they are taken through a process called ‘pre-gavage,’ where the ducks have a fixed meal time to encourage them to self-gorge and stretch their crop. From Week 13 to Week 15, they move into the hand-feeding stalls, where they run freely on fresh straw during

the fattening phase. During this time, each duck is individually hand-fed, ensuring they receive precisely the amount of nutrition necessary to bring them healthily to harvest.

The truth is, a happier, healthier duck is a tastier duck, and the key to a beautiful product is a beautiful process.

The products from Blackwater Duck Farm can be found at Acquistipace’s, local farmers markets and served in many fine restaurants around the region.

backwaterfoiegras.com

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Vintage Market Days

®

“ Gliier and Lace” presents

vintage | vintage-inspired | architectural salvage repurposed finds | jewelry & clothing | live music | food trucks

NEW RESCHEDULED DATE!

march 12-14, 2021 friday

10-5

saturday

10-5

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10-4

Florida rishes Arena 1301 NW Central Ave · Amite, LA FRIDAY (EARLY BUYING EVENT) $10

· SATURDAY/SUNDAY $5

vintagemarketdays.com.

My turn:

by Frank Marcello

ABOUT FRANK MARCELLO In every issue, EDGE of the Lake invites a local chef or restauranteur to visit another eatery on the Northshore. Frank Marcello started working in his parents’ restaurant in Baton Rouge when he was 11 years old. He worked the bar or waited tables as an LSU student, with the intention of going to med school. But he decided the restaurant life was his true passion, so he went to work for Calendars, then Semolina then Copelands. He opened seven restaurants in Albuquerque in the early 2000’s, but moved back to Louisiana in 2008 and bought Mandinas in Mandeville.

Frank loves to make everything from scratch.

He says Mandeville is the nicest place and has the friendliest people, and that’s saying something since he’s lived all over.

Restaurant Coté 2219 Carey St., Slidell Monday – Thursday 11 am-10 pm Friday and Saturday 11 am-11 pm Sunday Brunch from 10 am-2 pm Find out more online at restaurantcote.com or call them at 985-288-5440.

I took a friend to eat at Restaurant Coté in Slidell. It’s located in the middle of Olde Towne opposite the new St. Tammany Chamber office. I had never eaten there before and was impressed with the inviting exterior of the building. Inside was kind of eclectic with art from local artists hanging on exposed brick, beautiful old wooden tables and a bar towards the back.

The whole restaurant had a relaxing vibe while still maintaining an upscale atmosphere.

My friend opted for the Steens Old Fashion. They put orange pulp in Steens, and added bitters topped with red stag.

It was nice. I had the Coté Pimms, which came with lemons, limes, cucumbers and simple syrup, topped with Pimms and a Hendricks Floater. It was well done and I enjoyed it.

We heard that Steaks are their thing, so we skipped the appetizers and both went for that option.

My friend had the Filet with Beurre Blanc. It was a hand cut filet, perfectly grilled, and topped with lump blue crab and some rosemary beurre blanc that was just excellent. It was served with charred asparagus and roasted red potatoes accompanied by a side salad. The fillet was seared perfectly, crisp on the outside but tender on the inside. Plenty of food and perfectly cooked.

I got the Black and Blue Ribeye. This is a blackened, hand cut ribeye, seared with applewood smoked bacon topped with blue cheese crumbles. It was served with roasted potatoes and asparagus with a side salad. I’ll be honest, I don’t know which entrée was better. The blue cheese on that seared meat was excellent. We opted for the Crème Brulee for dessert, a classic way to end a delicious meal.

I noticed that they do a special on Thursday Nights: $20 Steak Night, or two steak dinners and a bottle of wine for $50, perfect for a date night. They also do a Sunday Brunch that I’ll probably go back for. I got a look at the menu and they listed a Crab 3 Way Benedict that caught my eye.

You know, this is one of those ‘enjoy the dining experience kind of places.’ They are making your meal from scratch. You know, a place you slow down, take a deep breath, enjoy your company and enjoy the meal.

Our server told me that Coté means “At the Home of...” in Creole French. After our meal, we moved to the adjoining Maple Room. The Maple Room had a real pub feel about it, filled with locals and friendly bar staff. We ordered a nightcap and enjoyed sitting in the courtyard before calling it a night. All in all, an exceptional option for a meal. The prices are modest for what you are getting, service was on point and the ambiance was nice. I’d highly recommend this place.

St. Tammany Parish Animal Shelter hosted its ďŹ rst Barksgiving, an event for shelter animals to celebrate Thanksgiving.

The OfďŹ cial New Orleans Liverpool Supporters Club volunteered their time and shared their passion for soccer with the kids at Miracle League, Northshore. YNWA!

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The St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce hosted the inaugural Clay Shooting Tournament. Brian Walls came in ďŹ rst place, shooting 99 out of the 100 targets.

St. Tammany Parish President Mike Cooper welcomed members of the arts and health communities to the Safe Haven Health and Wellness Complex, for the art opening of Percent for Art. The opening for 31 Healing Arts Collections procured through a Call to Artists earlier in the year, as well as donations from local philanthropists. Cooper opened the event by thanking members of the St. Tammany Commission on Cultural Affairs, local philanthropists, arts advocates Carlos Sanchez and David Fennelly, and Safe Haven Director Mary Burckell for their investment in Safe Haven and their work to bring this collection to the Safe Haven Health and Wellness Center.

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EDGE February | March 2021

The St. John’s Fools of Misrule’s Skulls travelled in Royal Carriage’s horse drawn carriages to visit local elected officials to announce the start of the Mardi Gras season. The group picked their Lord for the next season at the Covington Trailhead later that evening.

EDGE February | March 2021

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Chicks for Charity and The Lakehouse hosted a fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity St Tammany West’s Woman Build/W.A.T.C.H.

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EDGE February | March 2021

Bogalusa hospital, Our Lady of The Angels, was nationally recognized as a Top Rural Hospital by the Leapfrog Group for its patient safety and quality.

Northshore Plastic Surgery held its 5th Annual Botox for Blood Drive.

Chris Masingill, CEO of St. Tammany Corporation, and Dr. John L. Crain, President of Southeastern Louisiana University, signed off on a partnership aimed toward the expansion of access to services and resources for the business community in St. Tammany Parish.

EDGE February | March 2021

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The yearly inspirational drive-through luminaries at St. Paul’s School offered the perfect word to end 2020.

Michael Doherty, a young man who suffered spinal-cord injuries four years ago, showed gratitude toward his Lakeview medical care team on this week’s episode of Lakeview Regional podcast, “House Calls.”

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The Southern Orthopedic Specialists team celebrated the opening of their new practice in Slidell.

EDGE February | March 2021

Dr. Jill Gibson posed with her Medical Director’s Award which she earned for having the lowest c-section and highest delivery rates in November 2020.

Excited parents Meaghan and Jacob Thomas welcomed their New Year’s Day baby, Levi Jacob Thomas, at St. Tammany Health Systems

Children’s Advocacy Center - Hope House held a ribbon cutting ceremony to commemorate the expansion of its Covington facility. The addition was made possible by more than $200,000 in funding from the In Jesus’ Name Foundation.

After 40 years of practicing architecture in the region, Holly & Smith Architects APAC of Hammond and New Orleans has appointed new leaders, the Board of Directors appointed Kevin Morris as its new President, Ryan Faulk as CEO and Pierre Theriot as VP in Charge of Design Direction.

EDGE February | March 2021

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Kelly Kicking Cancer held a Magic of Friendsgiving Gala, money raised went to brain cancer research in honor of Kelly O’Mahoney who passed away from Brain Cancer.

St. Tammany Parish President and the Commission on Cultural Affairs held an outdoor event at the Koop Drive Trailhead Pavilion, which honored various artists within St. Tammany Parish.

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EDGE February | March 2021

Guiding you to a Healthy Smile!

• Most dental services provided without the need for referral • Implants, Dentures, Root Canals, Crowns, Etc. • Sleep Apnea Treatment (for CPAP intolerant patients) • 26 years serving the Northshore Randall L. Foto, DDS

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645 B Lotus Dr. N, Mandeville, LA 70471

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985.626.4447