Tangi Lifestyles Apr/May 2020

Local Kids' Camps | LJ Hummingbird Pottery | 5 Favorite Things - Jennifer Lee

April/May 2020

Volume 14, Issue 2

Wow. What a difference one issue makes. Last issue we were celebrating the beginning of our festival season. Now all festivals are canceled/postponed and we are learning to exercise social distancing.

The unease in our community is certainly understandable, as we are in uncharted territory. We want to assure our readers and listeners that Northshore Media is here to support, inform and serve you. As your LOCAL radio stations and lifestyles magazine, be assured that we will step up during this event, as we do during hurricane events to inform you, in real time, the issues that affect us.

PUBLISHER

Northshore Broadcasting

MANAGING EDITOR

Angela Blake

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Erin Bolton

Eloise Cottrell

Charles Dowdy

We want you to hear directly from our LOCAL officials. For the absolute latest news, tune in to TANGI 96.5 and KAJUN 107.1 each morning as we speak on-air with LOCAL city, parish, school and hospital officials. It is also important that you download our radio apps to your smartphone. This will allow you to stay informed, even when you can’t tune in.

We are encouraging everyone to be as responsible as possible, washing hands, keeping 6-10 feet away from others, covering coughs and sneezes with your arm and staying home when you feel ill. If you do feel ill, don’t show up at your doctor’s office.

Nick Gagliano

Blake Esta

Debi Menasco

Amber Narro

Brian Shirey

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS

Johnny Chauvin

Phillip Colwart

Instead CALL your doctor or the North Oaks Coronavirus hotline (985)230-2778 and take their direction.

Almost as important as following those instructions is to remember our LOCAL BUSINESSES. If we don’t make efforts to do business with them, even while social distancing, these businesses could fail. If that happens, we we’ll never “return to normal”. We encourage everyone to call the places you normally interact with. Ask how they’re operating, then try to give them some business. We are all experiencing this together. The more we can do to engage our local businesses, even if it’s just a little, the closer we will be to “normal” when this pandemic subsides. Be responsible, be safe and be engaged.

ADVERTISING (985) 345-0060

CORRESPONDENCE

200 East Thomas St. Hammond LA 70401

We hope that this issue will provide a bit of “normalcy” for you. We look forward to sharing uplifting stories of LOCAL success in our next issue. It’s all about COMMUNITY UNITY.

Northshore Media Group

200 East Thomas St. Hammond, LA 70401

985.345.0060

Lifestyles is a

publication produced by Northshore Broadcasting, 200 East Thomas Street, Hammond, LA 70401. All rights reserved. Tangi Lifestyles is staff-produced and cannot be held responsible for any unsolicited materials. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and artwork.

For advertising rates, call (985) 345-0060 info@tangilifestyles.com

Calendar submissions and “Seen and Heard” pictures may be emailed to events@tangilifestyles.com

Photo by

Johnny Chauvin

Transforming Lives Naturally for 35 Years!

We would like to thank our patients for allowing us the privilege of serving our community.

by Johnny Chauvin

Online Summer Reading Program for All Ages!

Enjoy fun weekly programs and presentations for all ages while reading to reach goals and earn prizes. Check with your library branch or online at www.TangiLibrary.com for a complete program listing. Sign up for the Summer Reading Program and get ready to IMAGINE YOUR STORY!

R EA D T O M E

R E A D I N G P R O G R A M

Children Ages Birth–6

For children who are not reading on their own yet. Read to your child to reach goals and receive prizes

i c k o f

e n t!

C H I L D R E N ’ S

R

Children Ages 7– 11

T E E N

Tweens & Teens Ages 12– 18

Read to reach goals and receive prizes. Earn raffle tickets

Submit book reviews for entries into a gift basket drawing Join us for book clubs, craft nights & lectures A fantastic adventure is about to begin as the Summer Reading Program kicks off at Tangipahoa Parish Library!

Read to reach goals and receive prizes. Come to your local branch for special programs and activities

Download the Beanstack App to track your minutes!

An audience favorite, Animal Tales returns to take you on a wild adventure for an up-close-and-personal experience with some fantastic creatures!

DAY CAMPS

Hammond Recreation Easter Camp

Hammond Recreation Summer Camp

Kidcam Camps

Spirit Professionals

North Cypress

Chappapeela Sports

Tangi Lanes

Oak Knoll Country Club

Airborne Extreme

SLU Recreation

Summer Camp

June 1st-July 24th

Strengthening Outcomes with Autism Resources (SOAR)

Written By Sarah Cooper

Photos By Phillip Colwart

Time to

soar

aising children can be difficult, but one organization is making it a little easier on those who have children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Sherri and James Huen’s youngest son was diagnosed at three years old after Sherri’s older sister mentioned the possibility based on symptoms he was displaying. Since then, the Huens have worked to ensure their son has the best possible outcomes, despite early challenges.

Sherri began working as an advocate with Northshore Families Helping Families in 2010 and quickly formed a group of five mothers whose children all had autism. The group searched for resources for their families and others that may be experiencing the same challenges. They began hosting an annual fundraising and awareness walk, and in 2012, they decided to make their own nonprofit organization – Strengthening Outcomes with Autism Resources (SOAR). SOAR provides services and support to children ages two through

21 and their families. Children two through six can attend SOAR all day. Older children come there after school to participate in activities that help them physically, mentally and emotionally.

In 2015, SOAR opened its first autism center. Using Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) techniques, certified line technicians work with each child one-on-one to ensure he or she is focused, learning and safe. Sherri and James’ son has used these techniques and occupational therapy, in addition to his regular classes, to improve his social and behavioral skills. Today, the SOAR center accepts Medicaid and private insurance

to accommodate students. They also host adult social groups, dad support groups, and family events in order to create a more inclusive, encouraging space for everyone.

The center is constantly changing, having outgrown its original building in 2015. It’s staff is now planning to expand facilities on newly purchased land next to the current location. SOAR is also adding another location in the Huens’ hometown of Chalmette. After Hurricane Katrina forced them to move away from Chalmette, they found a home in Ponchatoula. It was important to them to bring these resources there because there were no ABA or autism centers, according to Sherri.

SOAR provides services and support to children ages two through 21 and their families

In order to fund projects, events and provide for clients, fundraising is essential. The center’s 10th annual Autism Awareness Family Fun Day will be April. 25. The event includes a burger cook-off, Battle of the Burgers, and it will start at 10 a.m. in Memorial Park in Ponchatoula. This year, participants are not required to pay to walk. There will be inflatables, a train, crafts and games.

“This event is for all families, not just for those with children who have autism, Sherri said. “All funds raised will help children, families and employees at the center. This ensures there are inclusive places available and accessible for each child’s specific needs.”

The funds assist in paying for devices, medical and school supplies, and programming.

Sherri’s motivation to help and spread awareness does not end with SOAR. She has plans to expand her client range by teaching adults cooking and everyday life skills, so they are prepared to be independent or are more equipped to find a good job and have quality of life.

“If I don’t have it, I’m going to make

is Sherri’s motto, and she has no plans to slow down.

it”

Molding More than Clay

Written by Jordan Colona

Photos by Phillip Colwart

Lisa Jones of LJ Hummingbird Pottery creates one-of-a-kind pieces and uses her talents to benefit local school children.

Lisa Jones' favorite pastime is working on her pottery in her garage. Jones, a human resources employee for the City Hall in Ponchatoula, began pottery in 2013 by taking a class at the St. Tammany Art Association. She works on her pottery early in the morning before heading to work and late in the evening after returning home as a way to unwind from the stress of the day.

Jones' favorite item to mold is bird feeders because she can be as creative as she wants. The biggest bird feeder stands about 24 inches tall. They are usually flat, and in the shape of Louisiana or a Fleur de Lis. Some of the bird feeders simply have a circle or a

"I am blessed, and I know that there are children who are not as fortunate and they need help" ~ Lisa Jones

heart in the middle. Lisa places a screen under each feeder so that water can flow without the food washing away.

Pottery is not only a passion for Lisa, it is also an opportunity for her to give back to the community. One of her most personal creations are prayer bowls. The special bowls are produced with a cross in the center and are accomponied by cards for writing down prayers and placing them in the bowl as visual reminders. Throughout the day, the cards remind people to pray for those noted.

Jones said, “The prayer bowls came about because I feel like I always have someone that's asking for prayers. In human resources, I hear a lot of employees come to me with different issues and I would find myself telling them I'll keep them in my prayers.”

She says at night, it was hard to remember who to pray for and why. But the prayer cards remind her, and then she is able to ask them about their issue the next time she sees them.

Another cause important to Jones is public school teachers in need. The organization, DonorsChoose, is trying to combat that need. DonorsChoose.org was founded in 2000 by a high school teacher in the Bronx and allows public school teachers from across the country to request muchneeded materials and experiences.

Jones said, “I am so blessed, and I know that there are kids who are not as blessed, and need so much.” Her daughterin-law was a teacher who requested items through DonorsChoose.

Jones said, “I know how much the teachers need help because they spend so much of their own money in the classroom and they're paid so little.”

Lisa randomly chooses teachers in the area to help. If she has a show in Lafayette, she will look for a class in that community.

She also uses the DonorsChoose crowdfunding site to help teachers in her community. The most Jones has been able to give to a teacher for a project is $250, but altogether last year, she was able to give nearly $5,000 to classrooms in need. Jones says that these projects are so important to her and bring her such joy because the children from the classrooms that she helps always send her thank you letters. Jones displays those thank you letters from the children she has helped and inspired in her studio.

Lisa's pieces are available for purchase at Bayou Booksellers in Hammond, Moss and Berry in Ponchatoula, and at shows held throughout the year in Covington.

PONCHATOULA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESENTS—

— JAMENE DAHMER —

What does it mean to be a good citizen?

When Theodore Roosevelt was asked what constituted a good citizen he said, "The first pre-requisite of a good citizen in this Republic of ours, is that he shall be able and willing to pull his weight."

Holly and Alex Husser lived in Houston for 10 years where their children attended a private, Christian-based school. Holly began to doubt the environment was meeting the expectation that she and her husband were looking for. She felt compelled by her faith to find an alternative which led her to Logo’s Prep, a University-Model® school which is unique in that it offers two days of instruction in a traditional school setting, under the supervision of an instructor while on alternate days, the students are at home under the supervision of a parent.

Immediately, she felt like a stronger Christian. From the first informational meeting, the school was unapologetically Christian. They were sold. This was the place for their family, with like-minded individuals who already knew the gospel, and were looking to build a stronger, Christian community. Unfortunately, their time in Houston would be much shorter than anticipated. Alex lost his job in the oil and gas industry causing circumstances to change. Ultimately, the Hussers were led to return to Hammond. One of the challenges they faced was finding a school for their children. There were no University-based options offered in the area, so they enrolled them in a local school, hopeful it would work.

Holly shared, “It did not take long before my heart was badly grieving Logo’s Prep and the special time I had with my children”. She continued, “ I was exhausted, missing the community that we’d left behind, missing my connection with my children. Don’t get me wrong, the school they were attending was a great school, it just wasn’t working for our family”.

A distinctly Christian community, promoting meaningful parent-child relationships and rigorous education

In the traditional school setting, children are away from home more than 35 hours a week. Every day living the same routine; wake up, commute, school, commute, dinner, bath, bed, prayer, repeat. The children’s primary influences became their peers and their teachers. As a result, Holly started researching home-school options for the upcoming year.

It was then that she felt God’s push to open Louisiana’s first University-Model® school. So, she reached out to their old school in Houston and asked for direction. The first thing she was told was to get a team together as this project could not be accomplished alone. This is where Veronica Leto and her husband Michael joined the team. Holly recalls how although they had a family connection it was only after they talked at a local parade that the real connection was established. The relationship took off from there

“After the encounter Veronica sent me at text of encouragement which I still have today. I knew that I was being led yet again”, said Holly. “I showed up at her front door and told her that I had a feeling we were supposed to co-found a school together”.

Veronica’s initial response was to think about it and share it with her husband. When she approached her steady, business-minded husband about the opportunity, he simply said, “Sounds like something we want. Why not?” So, the journey began, and Adolesco Prep was born.

Veronica shared, “I thought about this University-Model® and it was exactly what I didn’t realize I wanted”!

Each co-founder brought individual attributes to the table that complimented one another. Together, the two couples worked diligently. The first step was becoming a member of NAUMS

(National Association of University Model Schools). There they attended a new school workshop, got a name and toured other University-model schools.

Adolesco Prep students attend school two to three days each week, while alternate days are at home doing independent study under the supervision of a parent. The curriculum is academically challenging, as well as distinctly Christian. Classes are designed for the parents to spend an equivalent amount of time on classroom instruction and home instruction, allowing students to spend as much time with their parents as they do with their peers. Also, their peers are from an environment of like-minded parents who share core beliefs. The curriculum is designed to slowly integrate a student into a schedule that promotes success in a college environment.

At Adolesco Prep, a low student-to-teacher ratio is key, offering 12 students per teacher

for PreK and Kindergarten and after that it is 16 students per teacher. The student body will begin with 50 to 75 students but ultimately continue to grow until reaching around 150 students.

Adolesco Prep will offer not only core classes, but also college-prep courses including art, music and even Latin in the higher grades. One of the unique aspects of the curriculum is that it is dictated through history. This gives all grade levels a well-rounded view of the world. For instance, this first year everyone will be learning the Ancients, just at age appropriate levels. This method promotes more family interaction. When families are sitting around talking about the day, every student can relate to the conversation and add to the discussion, no one is left out.

At Adolesco Prep each morning the whole school will come together for prayer and worship songs to get everybody on the same

page and jump-start the day on a positive note. The first Thursday of every month they will also offer “Rise and Shine”. This time will include worship, pastries, fellowship and devotion to allow parents to mingle with, and encourage one another. It is important for all parents to know that with a universitybased program they will never have to go through it alone. There will be support available for parents both in educational materials and community support among the other parents.

The cost of this schooling is a fraction of the cost of traditional private schooling, and the value also translates into the added hours that families are able to spend together while getting an excellent education. It is not just a school, it is a family ministry. Applications are now being accepted for PK3 through 6th grade. Parents of potential students may apply online at AdolescoPrep.org.

Adolesco Prep will accommodate PK3 through 6th grade families in Southeast Louisiana, with plans to add subsequent grades each year.

MARGARITAS

While Dos Equis has “The Most Interesting Man in the World”. The Most Interesting Man in Tangipahoa Parish is local restauranteur, Saul Rubio.

Saul’s story started in his mother’s kitchen in Mexico when she transformed her house into a local restaurant. Their dining room was the restaurant’s dining room, and their kitchen was the restaurant’s kitchen.

“My mother was a great cook. There were no formal menus or formal recipes. Everything was cooked on experience and taste. The dining room had seventeen tables with room for sixty people, and we all worked in the family business.”

When he was in his 20’s, Saul decided to come to the United States. His first job in the states was with a cleaning crew in Beverly Hills, California. Not afraid of hard work, Saul worked hard to make and save money.

After working in California for a year, a friend invited him to Miami, Florida. Saul made the cross-country trip, and during the next three years, Saul worked in the high-end construction business.

“I had no formal training in construction, but I had some great teachers who taught me everything I know about construction today. This is where my love for renovations started.”

Saul’s next stop in his career was in Atlanta where he worked in the carpet industry. He was always recognized for his exact measuring precision. “My goal is not to waste money. That’s why I learned to minimize the waste, and when I renovate our restaurants today, I try to do the same. Eliminate waste and re-purpose the building materials.”

Written by Nick Gagliano

Photos by Johnny Chauvin

Saul moved to Mobile, Alabama, to work with his cousin in a restaurant. Then, a friend of theirs called from Milton, Florida, and said a new restaurant was opening and they needed help. So Saul went to Milton, and he met his first mentor in the restaurant business.

“He was very religious. Each day from 2 pm to 5 pm when business would slow down, we would read one page of the bible and discuss it. We would also talk about restaurant management styles and he told me all successful restaurants have good and happy employees. And that is what I strive to do in all my restaurants.”

The next phase of Tangipahoa’s Most Interesting Man came by circumstance 21 years ago. Saul was driving to Mexico for a wedding when he pulled off the Interstate 12 at the mall exit. He wanted to see downtown Hammond, so he started driving north. When he got near the current site of Harley Davidson, there was nothing there, so thinking he had the wrong exit, he turned around, got back on the interstate, and proceeded to Mexico.

On his return trip he successfully attempted to find downtown Hammond again. He walked in the Hammond Chamber of Commerce Building and spoke to then Executive Director Jamene Dahmer. She showed him around, and Saul discovered the building where La Carreta is currently housed. He met John Wong and John promised to hold the building for him with a $1,000 deposit. Saul paid the deposit and the rest is restaurant history.

Today, Saul has an ownership stake in several restaurants in Tangipahoa Parish, and like a father with several children, he loves them all. He also knows that each restaurant has its own personality.

The newest member of the “family” is Si Señor Taqueria in the Seville Plaza Shopping Center on Thomas Street in Hammond.

“I am so proud of Si Senor. It is the home of authentic Mexican food and the menu is a departure from the old Adobe and La Caretta menu. This is the type of Mexican food we had in my mother’s restaurant. Some recipes are the same and some have our own twist and version to it.”

Si Señor Taqueria has a rotisserie as well as many of the dishes are cooked on an open flame. These two cooking methods create a flavor and taste that is unlike any Mexican restaurant in the area.

The restaurant also features fresh guacamole made to order.

“The response to our guacamole has been a pleasant surprise. People who enjoy authentic Mexican food know good guacamole.”

Si Señor Taqueria has been open for just over 45 days and the response to the menu is growing every day. Many people are returning to try new dishes so they can expand their dining experience.

“With new restaurants, I find it exciting to offer new dishes and new cuisine to our local customers. I am here to help explain the dishes as well as hear the customer feedback. In order for us to improve, our entire staff has to engage with our customers.”

The open kitchen is also a customer favorite. They can see various parts of the meal being made right before their eyes. At Si Señor Taqueria, the fresh barbacoa de borrego, al pastor, and other topshelf meats are cut straight from the rotating rotisserie right onto homemade tortillas with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Additionally, the dessert menu is expanded with homemade Churros, Tres Leches, Mexican Gelatin and Santa Clara Flan just to name a few of the delightful desserts.

“Many people ask why the name ‘Si Señor’ and it all goes back to my father. When anyone would ask for help, he would answer ‘Si Señor, which is Yes Sir’ in English. It’s a tribute to him and the work ethic he instilled in me.”

Hard work is still in Saul’s blood. He can be found every day at one of his restaurants welcoming guests, cleaning tables, and helping in the kitchen. His management style is hands-on, and he says his customers appreciate it when they see the owner fully engaged with the staff and customers.

Eric Estrada and Glen Alack are also part owners in the restaurant and are there daily. Saul now takes it upon himself to be their mentor and lead by example.

Running Si Señor Taqueria and his other restaurants would be more than enough for most entrepreneurs, but not for Saul. He has a new cookbook and video that will be out in June. The coffee table book is a collection of stories, photographs and recipes that tell the story of Saul’s life.

“I’m very excited about this project. This has been a dream of mine for some time now. Not only will the book have my story, but it will also pay homage to the special people who have helped me succeed in Tangipahoa Parish. It is my way of saying thank you and sharing the important memories and occasions in my life.”

The year 2020 sounds like a big year for Tangipahoa’s Most Interesting Person, but you can be assured that Si Señor Taqueria and his other restaurants will continue to grow and be the training ground for the next generation of restauranteurs.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9

Pastor Crystal Boney

The Mission Church

God encourages His followers to “fear not” 365 times in the Bible. I don’t think it’s by happenstance that there is one for each day of the year. God didn't intend for Christians to spend their days preoccupied with anxiety and worry. He knows how we think, how we process, the fears we face. He didn’t create us to be anxious or stressed out. We were made to live, to engage, to remain open to the people and opportunities we encounter. To live a life of freedom.

You can only move past something by first taking a step toward it. The same is true with fear. If you want to move past it, you have to be bold enough to take a step in faith and face it head on. You have to be willing to do it afraid if necessary. As a person who dealt with fear for years, I know the difficulty, I understand the struggle - the moments you feel overwhelmed and paralyzed due to the mindcrippling thoughts and emotions. But I also know and have experienced the freedom that’s on the other side of fear.

We begin to walk toward freedom and away from fear when we choose to no longer allow our feelings and emotions to control our actions. Fear doesn't respond to logic, its power is fueled by what might be, what we imagine could be.

The answer to fear isn't to give into it, it's to move forward boldly in spite of it. Fear will always tell you “you can’t,” but faith is always shouting “God can!” If you are trying to find freedom in your own strength, it will never happen. Freedom is found in Jesus and Jesus alone. When we choose to believe despite how we feel, take a step in faith and put our trust in Jesus, the end result is victory every time!

Fear only has the power we choose to give it. Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear, choose today to go after it!

Advanced Pain Institute

“Through my background, training and years of experience, I am well prepared to help with the pain.”

~ Dr. Mohamed Elkersh

Let’s face it. Life hurts.

In fact, nearly 100 million adults in the United States are affected by chronic pain at any given time. Despite the prevalence of pain, the practice of pain medicine and the scientific discipline of pain research are relatively new fields compared to the rest of medicine.

With statistics like that, you need an expert in the field of pain medicine. Whether you are suffering from constant lower back pain or debilitating headaches, at Advanced Pain Institute, there is an expert waiting to help.

The doctors at Advanced Pain Institute have been double board certified and fellowship trained in pain medicine. Those certifications are so important when it comes to managing chronic pain. They are aware that ineffective pain management can lead to a marked decrease in the overall quality of life.

As Dr. Mohamed Elkersh of Advanced Pain Institute explains, “Through my background, training and years of experience, I am well prepared to help with the pain.”

Advanced Pain Institute is committed to providing comprehensive care in an environment of comfortable, caring, compassion. When he was asked what was the most important message to be shared with the

community, Dr. Elkersh commented, “Skill, professionalism and empathy are what define us. We are experts in pain and how it affects the mind, body and soul. With us you can trust that your overall well-being is our goal.”

Pain is often referred to as the 5th vital sign, when patients are evaluated, the vital signs are taken including blood pressure; respiratory rate; heart rate; temperature and level of pain. In reality, pain is not a vital sign, it a symptom of an underlying problem. The experts at Advanced Pain Institute understand the distinction and are committed and well-prepared to ease the pain which will enhance the quality of life for their patients.

At Advanced Pain Institute, the pain experts want their clients to understand that there is no need to live with ongoing, fatiguing pain. They aim to bring relief to those who feel their condition has lowered their quality of life. The pain experts are committed and well-prepared to ease the pain that will truly enhance lives.

It is time to take control of your pain today. You can find out more information and schedule an appointment by calling 985.345.PAIN or visiting their website at PainExperts.com.

Steve Lee, MD Ann Con, MD

Barrett Johnston, MD

Mohamed Elkersh, MD

Alan Kaye, MD

A True Servant to the Community Lance

By Nick Gagliano

Lance Vicknair has been a lifelong resident of Ponchatoula, and part of the longstanding tradition of service at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home and Crematory since 1991. After graduating from Ponchatoula High School, Lance attended Delgado Community College to complete his funeral service education while he worked as an intern at Harry McKneely & Son. “Since my career began here, I have worked in every area of the funeral home. The McKneely family, along with funeral director, Bryant Faust, were tremendous mentors. I am fortunate to have worked with these influential funeral industry leaders.”

Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home has been serving families in and around the Tangipahoa and Livingston Parish communities for generations. The business was built on the simple belief that every life is dear and deserves a dignified tribute. Lance assumed control of operations after the sale was finalized in the latter part of 2019. “I am proud and excited to continue the tradition of Harry McKneely and Son in meeting the funeral needs of our community. We have a great staff and we are committed to continuing to provide personal, and compassionate care for families during their time of need.”

Throughout his career, Lance has had the opportunity to touch the lives of countless families. He knows the importance families place on entrusting the care of their loved ones to a funeral home with a reputation for respect and compassion. With the desire to meet the needs of the community, in 2008, Lance helped with the design and construction of Harry McKneely & Son’s crematory in Hammond. It was the first and remains the only crematory in Tangipahoa Parish. “At

Harry McKneely & Son, our staff personally cares for each one of our families from start to finish. Our on-site crematory ensures that your loved one will never leave our care.”

With a wide range of possibilities, Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home helps each family select the services that best fits their needs. “As an independently owned funeral home, we can offer services from simple to elaborate for families choosing either burial or cremation. During the arrangement process, it’s important that we explain to family members the different options available to them. For instance, if a family chooses cremation, many times they may not realize that a visitation and service with a casket can be offered prior to cremation.”

Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home serves the community from locations in both Hammond and Ponchatoula, with two chapels available at each location. The business offices and the crematory are located at the Hammond facility. Looking forward to the future as the new owner, Lance, plans to initiate facility renovations and updates in 2020. “Our emphasis on personal service will remain our highest priority.”

“We have a great team at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home and Crematory. We are dedicated to continuing the tradition of serving each family with dignity, sincerity, and respect, which has made us an important part in the lives of so many families.”

Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home and Crematory is located at 2000 N. Morrison Boulevard in Hammond and 100 W. Magnolia Street in Ponchatoula.

Tangipahoa Parish Operation Angel angipahoa

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BEAR CREEK WESTERN STORE

Spring is In the Air At Bear Creek! SPRING shipments and MOTHER'S DAY Gifts arriving daily!. 35999 LA - 16, Montpelier 225.777.4578

CRESCENT BAR MOMS, DADS & GRADS — There's ALWAYS a Good Reason to Come to The Crescent! 110 W Thomas St, Hammond 985.345.7636

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HAMMOND FLORIST

Prom, Spring Formal and Mother's Day are beautifully done at Hammond Florist! 115 W. Thomas St. Hammond 985.345.1313

JENNIFER LEE Favorite Things

Jennifer Lee was born and raised in Ponchatoula where she always worked hard. She graduated from Ponchatoula High School in 1993, but her hard work and education didn’t stop there. Jennifer bought her rst house at age 17! She graduated from SLU in 1997 with a degree in Business Education, then from LSU Law School in 2001, then earned her MBA in 2008. She served as General Counsel for Neill Corporation for 12 years and now is a partner at the law rm of Chehardy, Sherman, Williams. She and her husband Lucas Watkins have been together for 15 years and are proud parents to Cole (8). Her story is one of hard work and appreciation of life.

1: Learning to Hunt & Fish

Topping the list is spending time outdoors with Lucas and Cole as they teach her to trap gators & snapping turtles, gig frogs, run trotlines and hunt. This season, Jennifer had her first ever deer hunting experience with Cole as her guide.

3: Memorable Experiences

2: Traveling

Jennifer has been to New York City many times, and each trip has been a unique experience. She has also spent time in Europe, Asia, and Central America. London, Amsterdam, Paris, China, and Belize, all delivered great experiences, but the simplicity and minimalism of Denmark made the greatest impression. An annual family trip to Montana is a recent tradition which she also cherishes. Italy, Greece, and Canada are on tap for the coming years.

Jennifer places highest value on “experiences” as opposed to “things.” Notable experiences include riding a toboggan down the Great Wall of China, a concert at the acousticallyperfect Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Denver, and the fragrance of fresh lavender fields in California. She and her son recently had a fun glass blowing experience.

4: Facilitating Solutions & Peace

5: House Revival

“I’m either coming home or going home, and now I’m good either way.”

This quote from one of Jennifer’s clients encapsulates her favorite aspect of practicing law. Estate and business planning allows her to guide clients through very important and personal decisions, ultimately providing solutions and peace of mind. It’s more than just a job--it’s a passion.

Many people purchase houses to “flip.” Jennifer and Lucas enjoy purchasing and renovating old houses, but they have only managed to sell one of the 8 houses they have remodeled. There’s enjoyment in bringing the old homes to new life. She recalls her excitement in finding 1940s newspapers in the walls of one home that had been used as insulation when the house was first built.

Botox and fillers in a 20 or 30 year old? What’s the point of that?

Prevention is one answer. The creasing that facial muscles create becomes permanent over time, so nullifying or minimizing the muscle action in select areas with Botox or Dysport inhibits permanent lines from forming, especially in the forehead, between the eyes, and the corners of the eyes. Early treatment of these areas will prevent or delay forehead furrows, frown lines, and crows feet.

Another reason for early entry into the realm of Botox and fillers is to counteract certain unwanted facial characteristics such as a gummy smile or uneven eyebrows. These problems require very minimal amounts of

Botox Babies &

neuromodulators costing as little as $15 per month.

Filler Fans

A final justification of corrective injection treatments at any age of adulthood is for those whose eyelids tend to droop. Just a few units of Botox or Dysport every 4 months is enough to remedy tired-looking eyes.

Those of tender years have tender self images, and often the slightest change in appearance for the better can instill confidence and erase self-doubt. It’s just human nature. These slight and inexpensive improvements won’t eliminate the signs of aging. They keep them away!

Robert Benson, MD American Board Certified Dermatologist, Dermatological Surgeon, and Cosmetic Surgeon

This treatment takes just minutes and is typically Under $50

“Thank you again for your continued vote of confidence in me and our entire staff whose dedication and compassion sustain our quest for excellence .”

~ Dr. Robert Benson

A touch of Botox or Dyspot injected in specific areas of the upper lip relaxes the muscles to lessen or eliminate a gummy smile.

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