Our Daily Bread | Salute to 2020 Graduates | 5 Favorite Things - Dr. Robert Peltier June/July 2020 | Volume 14, Issue 3
COLBY McCURDY AGENCY
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While the pandemic has been global, it has had very local impacts and it’s no surprise that our great community has risen to the challenge. In March we didn’t know how long or how difficult the coming days would be. The closures of businesses and stayat-home order have affected everyone in different ways. Many of our neighbors were suddenly without jobs. Many of our business owners were simply unable to open their doors. The strain these events have put on our neighbors and local economy is real. By contrast, many of our neighbors have been working increased hours as they have provided essential services. During these unprecedented times, we are grateful for all of the essential workers and volunteers who have been providing access to food, healthcare, supplies, public works and sanitation. We thank our neighbors who have provided vital services.
Doing our part to support our community during these trying times, Northshore Media Group has worked tirelessly to provide timely, locally relevant news and information. Each day of the stay-at-home order, our radio stations had Parish President Robby Miller, North Oaks Chief Medical Officer Rob Peltier and Tangipahoa Public School’s Melissa Stilley on the air with us, sharing real time locally relevant updates and information. We thank them for their time and service.
Not forgotten during this pandemic are all of the graduating seniors. There is no doubt that this graduation season has not been traditional, but our community has improvised creative ways to celebrate the milestone. For our part, we have dedicated half of this issue to celebrating our local graduates. Thank you to everyone who submitted pictures of your special graduates! Graduates, we salute you!
Finally, there’s light at the end of the tunnel, but there’s still a tunnel. As our local businesses begin phased opening we begin to feel progress to normalcy. We hope that everyone reading this magazine will shop, eat and get service from our LOCAL businesses as often as possible. The more quickly we engage and support our LOCAL businesses and workers, the more quickly we will begin to feel normal.
Shop local and often and stay safe.
Tangi Lifestyles is a bi-monthly 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.
June/July 2020
Volume 14, Issue 3
PUBLISHER
Northshore Broadcasting
MANAGING EDITOR
Angela Blake
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
Erin Bolton
Eloise Cottrell
Charles Dowdy
Nick Gagliano
Blake Esta
Debi Menasco
Amber Narro
Brian Shirey
PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS
Johnny Chauvin
Phillip Colwart
ADVERTISING (985) 345-0060
CORRESPONDENCE
200 East Thomas St. Hammond LA 70401
For advertising rates, call (985) 345-0060
info@tangilifestyles.com
Calendar submissions and “Seen and Heard” pictures may be emailed to events@tangilifestyles.com
Northshore Media Group 200 East Thomas St. Hammond, LA 70401
985.345.0060
4 TANGI LIFESTYLES
Photo by Johnny Chauvin
Photo by Jessica Broom
JUNE/JULY 5
Contents On the Cover: Meet Colby McCurdy, a classically trained vocalist, and local Allstate agent. McCurdy’s office is in the heart of Ponchatoula at 760 W. Pine Street. He will soon be acquiring a second Allstate agency in Mandeville. Learn more about McCurdy and how he serves our community on page 26.
Artwork by
Table of
Jazmine Cabaluna
8. Creative Community Contest Winners 12. Tangi Neighbor Our Daily Bread 16. Tangi Neighbor Tangipahoa Volunteers for Family and Community 20. 5 Favorite Things Dr. Robert Peltier 22. Trending Now 26. Cover Feature Colby McCurdy, Allstate 28. Graduation 2020 Congratulations Seniors! 53. Seen & Heard 6 TANGI LIFESTYLES
Cover photo by Johnny Chauvin
T O A L L O U R
L I B R A RY
PAT R O N S :
I hope your summer is off to a good start. This year our summer reading program will be an online experience for our performers and programs. W hile circumstances have forced us to do so, we still look forward to your family’s reading participation. It’s another free service we provide at the library, and we look forward to seeing you soon
Barry Bradford Executive Director
Enjoy these weekly programs for all ages while reading to reach your goal and earn prizes We have a number of summer reading activities scheduled so be sure to visit www.tangilibrary.com to get an updated program listing. Sign up for our FREE Summer Reading Program today! Our Summer Reading Performers will be on our Facebook page for you to enjoy.
YOGA LIZ: Tales with a Twist
JUNE 8 – JUNE 12
Get ready to move right where you are! Come on a playful journey online with Liz Bragdon to tell a tale with movement and mindfulness Following the lead of Yoga Liz, children become the story!
THE DINOSAUR EXPERIENCE
JUNE 22 – JUNE 26
Take an online journey to see Nash and Rexi, Louisiana’s only pet dinosaurs! Guaranteed to be an exciting and magical program for the entire family
CALLIOPE PUPPETS
JULY 6 – JULY 10
Perfect puppeteering is here! These handmade puppets from the heart are performing an online puppet show just for you!
HAMPSTEAD STAGE COMPANY
JUNE 15 – JUNE 19
Join us online to watch a theatre performance of the classic tale, Alice in Wonderland Follow Alice down the rabbit hole as she searches for the W hite Rabbit and tries to find her way out of Wonderland
MS. KIM’S PETTING ZOO
JUNE 29 – JULY 3
Find a comfy spot at home and join us online as Ms Kim reads some favorite barnyard stories
Track your minutes!
Sign up online to track your minutes read, from anywhere! Go to our website and follow the link to the Summer Reading Program or download the Beanstack App!
t T A N G I P A H O A P A R I S H L I B R A R Y O n l i n e S u m m e r Re a d i n g P r o g r a m A M I T E H A M M O N D I N D E P E N D E N C E K E N T W O O D L O R A N G E R P O N C H A T O U L A
ttt
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Sign up online for the Summer Reading Program at w w w. t a n g il ib r a r y. c o m t
Keeping the Creative Community Connected: 6 Feet Closer
By Kyla D'Arensbourg
By Katie St. Amand
Facing the unfamiliar and abrupt chal lenges brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent social distancing and shelter-at-home orders, the owners of Anntoine Marketing + Design knew that the best way forward was to adapt to the new environment as quickly as possible. "We were nervous just like everyone else was," said Jessica Smith, co-owner of Anntoine, "but we knew we couldn't let it paralyze our business. We see our clients face all kinds of challenges, and we work with them to make the necessary adjustments."
After the decision was made that all staff members would have to work from home for the next several weeks, the team quickly set themselves up to work and meet remotely. Eddie Laviolette, co-owner of Anntoine, recalls, "It was a big adjustment. We like being under the same roof when we're working. We talk about what we're doing and what we're working on, and we're constantly getting input from each other. I don't like that we're separated and more isolated right now, but I know that we're fortunate that we can keep our business operating through this. A lot of businesses had to shut down, and that's unbelievably tough."
As they settled into the new work-fromhome environment, the Anntoine team discussed how they were dealing with such a major disruption to their normal routines. "The most interesting thing we realized was that, for whatever reason, we felt more creative. Almost every one of us had been drawing, writing, painting, taking pictures—just spending more time doing creative and artful things. It seemed like that was something that made us all feel better, like we were making better use of our free time. Our team decided we
By Brynn Finney
said Jessica.
The team quickly fleshed out a framework for the contest, which they named "Keeping Our Creative Community Connected: 6 Feet Closer." As the name implied, the entries would feature original artwork inspired by the artists’ environments during the stay-at-home order. The contest was divided into three categories—graphic art, photography and videography, and literature—and anyone from the area was invited to participate. A winner from each category would be chosen by the Anntoine team, and a grand prize winner would be selected from among them. Guidelines and prizes were announced through social media pages, press releases, and local radio ads on Tangi 96.5 and Kajun 107.1 WHMD.
"We wanted to establish a general theme for the contest," said Eddie, "but we didn't want to define it too narrowly." As the entries poured in, the Anntoine team (most of them artists themselves) was roundly impressed. "We received some brilliant submissions," said Jessica. "They hit the full range of emotions, from hopeful to fearful, from accepting to defiant. We really appreciate the effort that was put into these entries. Choosing the winners wasn't easy."
After the contest completed on May 5th, the team took the next few days to review entries and tally their votes for each category. The winner of Category A was Brandee Sandusky a 29-year-old artist from Baton Rouge. Category B was won by Michelle Ramey, a 34-year-old photographer from Denham Springs. And, Category C by Allie Smith, a local 16-year-old writer.
8 TANGI LIFESTYLES
Category A — Graphic Art
The ContestWinners BRANDEE SANDUSKY
After the contest completed on May 5th, the team took the next few days to review entries and tally their votes for each category. The winner of Category A was Brandee Sandusky. Sandusky is a 29-year-old artist from Baton Rouge, Louisiana who was inspired by her love for making themed ABCs. Her artwork featured items and activities that were especially prevalent during the stay-at-home order, such as watching Netflix, ordering from Amazon, eating local, and exploring the outdoors. Sandusky said, “I love it because it shows what we are all doing separately but together!” Not only did Sandusky take first place for Category A, but she was also chosen as the overall Grand Prize Winner. As the Grand Prize Winner, Sandusky received an iPad, her artwork is featured in this article, her name was announced on Tangi 96.5 and Kajun 107.1 WHMD, she will receive a free social media class, and her name was featured on partnering social media pages.
Category B — Photography/Videography
MICHELLE RAMEY
Category B included photography entries from locals that found themselves capturing sweet moments and reconnecting with nature. Michelle Ramey, a 34-year-old photographer from Denham Springs, was chosen as the winner of Category B. Ramey’s entry featured her young children drawing colorful pictures near a beautiful, sunlit window. Ramey stated her inspiration for her picture was her everyday life, where she was spending more time with her family and finding ways to “get our creative juices flowing.” As a Category winner, Ramey was featured on radio stations Tangi 96.5 and Kajun 107.1 WHMD, social media pages, her photograph is featured in this article, and she will receive a free social media class held by Anntoine Marketing + Design.
Category C — Literature
ALLIE SMITH
For Category C, the team reviewed haiku poems and other thoughtful pieces that took the team to a place of understanding how the community has changed during this challenging time. Allie Smith, a local 16-year-old writer and co-owner of Smith Inflatables, was selected as the winner of Category C. Shocked and frightened by the new normal and how it has affected her mother with asthma after walking out of a Winn-Dixie supermarket, she wrote a poem after a moment of reflection. Smith said, “So I took a moment and thought about how much our lives had truly changed, and how people still find ways to be there for others, even when standing six feet apart.” Smith was announced as a winner on the two radio stations and social media, her poem is featured in this article, and she will receive an opportunity to intern at Anntoine Marketing + Design for a day.
We are all trying, and that is beautiful.
At first, this situation was very lonesome. But then we adapted, we learned how to survive in this new “normal”. We figured out ways to show that we care, to show that we are in this together.
Even though we are six feet apart, we still stand together. And then, on that glorious day, when we can all stand side by side, we will hug each other for a second longer.
The Anntoine Marketing + Design Team is grateful for everyone who took the time to enter their first ever creative contest. Be sure to “Like” their Facebook Page (@anntoine.marketing) and “Follow” their Instagram Account (@anntoinemarketing) for updates about future contests. If you are interested in learning more about the services Anntoine Marketing + Design offers to small businesses, head on over to www.anntoine.com or call (985) 602-0600 to speak with their team.
JUNE/JULY 9
FROM CELEBRATION TO ISOLATION
An excerpt from Smith's entry...
Brynn Finney
treatments that last
Over the last few months, time has seemed to slow and distance to expand. Almost overnight, lives drastically changed and familiar conveniences disappeared. Lasting things became more noticeable and appreciated as groceries flew off the shelves and regular haircut appointments were unavailable while school and church activities ceased.
Since the Covid restrictions, cosmetic treatments which last months to years have become more appreciated. In the category of “years” are office procedures such as laser lipo, TCA face peels, and hair restoration which only require a week or less of down time but whose benefits can last a lifetime.
Cosmetic fillers and thread lifts span from 8-12 months all the way up to several years depending on the areas treated and the
choice of filler. The typical hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Juvederm, Restylane, and Voluma, last up to a year, while Sculptra and Bellafill can restore more youthful contours for 2-7 years. Finally, Botox and Dysport, the popular neuromodulators which relax facial lines, last on average 4 months and sometimes as long as 6 months.
And lest we forget, IPL treatments depending upon sun exposure can last a year or more, and laser hair removal and spider vein removal are usually permanent!
It is often said that time is money. In this case, time and money are both saved by choosing treatments with staying power. And each are appreciated even more whenever these services are unavailable.
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10 TANGI LIFESTYLES State-of-the-Art Technology, Outstanding Results
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JUNE/JULY 11 CONGRATULATIONS 2020 GRADUATES! 1ST CIRCUIT COURT OF APPEAL Please Vote #165 on July 11 Early Voting — June 20 - July 4 Judge Beth Wolfe
Always upbeat and ready to help, Our Daily Bread is a beacon of hope for many.
"We need only volunteers, donations, and prayers."
12 TANGI LIFESTYLES
Feeding the HUNGRY While Preserving DIGNITY
By Nick Gagliano
For many of us, we are fortunate. When we are hungry, we open the refrigerator or pantry and grab something to eat.
Unfortunately, there are many families in our parish where this is not a reality. They simply have no food in the house.
Our Daily Bread Executive Director John Hair sees these faces and families every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. These are the days Our Daily Bread distributes USDA commodity 35# food boxes, emergency food bags and hot meals.
Prior to COVID-19, we were providing food boxes to 2,000 families,” said Hair. “Now we have nearly tripled the number of boxes to families who have no food.”
Hair also said the number of hot meals served on Tuesdays and Thursdays have dramatically risen as well. Our Daily Bread was serving 3,200 hot meals per month and now they serve 14,000 meals per month.
“The need is real, and we see it every day. We traditionally served our hot meals with a dine-in or take-out option. Now it is strictly take-out. The line forms early and we try to serve everyone in line. We feel that by providing hot lunches twice a week, this helps stretch the family’s food they receive at the beginning of the month.”
Seeing families in these types of dire situations, one would think it could take a toll on Hair and his team, but that is not the case. Always upbeat and ready to help, Our Daily Bread is a beacon of hope for many.
“I tell my staff and volunteers we have the ability to significantly help someone when they come through our doors. We see people having to ask for food for the first time in their lives, and we see this as a way to help lift them up when they are probably at one of the lowest points in their lives. It’s daunting work, but it’s also extremely rewarding.”
COVID-19 also caused a need for more volunteers at Our Daily
work in the kitchen, prepare the take-out boxes and distribute the meals. However, since many of the seniors are following the COVID-19 recommendations to stay home, this has put a strain on the volunteer base.
“We miss our seniors, so we are always looking for volunteers to help. No experience is necessary. All you need is a good attitude and a servant’s heart.”
Hair has been at the helm of Our Daily Bread for the past two years. He has successfully filled the shoes of prior Executive Director Myrna Jordan. With 21 years of restaurant, disaster recovery and ministry experience, Our Daily Bread was a perfect fit when Myrna reached out to Hair as her replacement.
“We have been blessed in so many ways. Our board president Rick Durham along with our entire board have performed beyond the call of duty. They are a supportive group with the mission to feed our families.”
Like all local non-profit organizations, funding is always a priority. Hair has established a “Help the Hungry” campaign. He said $1 will feed 1 family. Donations can be a one-time gift, or they can be a monthly recurring donation.
Walmart has provided grants to purchase a walk-in freezer, coolers and a refrigerated truck, and the Northshore Community Foundation is another big financial supporter. Our Daily Bread is a community partner with the Southeast Louisiana United Way. Hair also recognizes Tangipahoa Parish President Robby Miller and his wife, Donna, for their continued and vocal support of Our Daily Bread.
As John Hair continues feeding the families in Tangipahoa Parish, his wish list in not a big one.
“We need volunteers, donations and prayers.”
To contact Our Daily Bread or to donate, please visit www.ourdailybreadhammond.org
JUNE/JULY 13
14 TANGI LIFESTYLES Summer is almost here. Is your system operating as efficiently as it should be? AIRPRO.ME Call 985.467.0114 today and ask about our performance and safety inspection specials! Summer is almost here. is almost here. operating as efficiently as it should be? today our safety specials! Summer is almost here. Is your system operating as efficiently as it should AIRPRO.ME Call 985.467.0114 today and ask about our performance and safety inspection specials! CALL 985.467.0114 TODAY! Open normal business hours on Saturday to accommodate your busy schedule!
This too shall pass.
JUNE/JULY 15
We've Got You Covered, TANGIPAHOA!
Members of Tangipahoa Volunteers For Family And Community found a way to help our community during this Covid crisis. In March, North Oaks Health System sent out a call asking for volunteers to sew face masks for them. Our members Carla Van Vranken, Anita Murray, Maureen Felder, Kathy Brandon, Ann Bourliea, Malinda Sanchez, and Marie Heck immediately rose to the task, whipped out their sewing machines and got busy. By the end of the week, the first batch of fabric face masks was ready for delivery to the hospital. Our President, Marie Heck, made the arrangements to pick the masks up following the state’s safety protocols, and delivered the first set of masks to the hospital.
After making hundreds of masks, we heard from many nurses that the elastic was making their ears very sore after wearing the masks for so many hours. Ann Bourliea began making headbands and straps with buttons on each side. The nurses could then slip the elastic around the buttons, so there is no pressure on their ears. Ingenious solution!
Other members who do not sew have also helped by contributing fabric and other materials, and helping cut out the masks for others to sew. This has truly been a team effort! At this time, we have provided well over 2000 washable, reusable fabric masks to Tangipahoa Parish. We have donated these to our hospitals, police and fire departments, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, TARC, Options, and all of our nursing homes.
Tangipahoa Volunteers for Family And Community is the all-volunteer arm of the LSU Ag Center Extension Service. We work with them in areas like promoting and judging the 4H programs, various health and nutrition projects and education,
recycling, gardening and agricultural projects. Formerly known as Homemaker’s Club, TVFC has been a part of the state-wide organization, Louisiana Volunteers For Family And Community, since it was formed in 1936. Our purpose now is the same as it was then: to serve and strengthen families in our community. Tangipahoa Parish is one of 15 parishes that belong to Louisiana Volunteers for Family and Community.
One of our greatest projects every year is our Scholarship Project. This is open to graduating seniors from our Parish who has participated in 4H programs. This past year, we were able to award two scholarships to deserving seniors. Other projects include assisting the local veterans’ home, helping support our local pregnancy centers and the homeless shelter, and supporting the SAFE project for battered women. We also support our local Humane Society.
TVFC now has two branches, Sunshine Ladies and Wednesday Volunteers. Sunshine Ladies meetings are on the first Tuesday of the month, and as their name suggests, Wednesday Volunteers meet on the first Wednesday of the month. While our meetings and activities are currently suspended due to Covid protocols, Tangipahoa Volunteers For Family And Community will resume our regular activities as soon as it is safe to do so. Any lady interested in volunteering with a great group is invited to contact President Marie Hack at marie_ heck@yahoo.com. You can also visit tangivfc.com for more information about our organization and community service projects.
Anyone wishing to help with any of our community service projects may make a tax deductible contribution, as we are a 501(c3) organization.
16 TANGI LIFESTYLES NEIGHBORS tangi
JUNE/JULY 17 When times get tough, you can always count on family. From our #DowntownHammond families to yours, Thank you for supporting local. These Photos were taken in collaboration with photographer Kali Norton for the #FrontPorchProject. Visit Kali’s new studio in Downtown Hammond. www.kalinorton.com
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Dr. Robert Peltier was born and raised in Houma where he graduated from Vandebilt Catholic High School. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree from LSU (’91) then his medical degree from LSU (’95). He completed his residency in internal medicine at Earl K. Long in 1998. That residency included study in tropical medicine in Lima, Peru where he and his wife Tara experienced an earthquake! From 1998 until 2008, Dr. Peltier practiced internal medicine in Hammond at Northshore Internal Medicine Associates. From 2008 until today, he has been the Chief Medical Officer of North Oaks Health System. Dr. Peltier has become the preeminent source of vital information as our local community has navigated the unprecedented global pandemic. He serves our community with passion in his professional capacity, but his personal passions are reflected in his 5 favorite things…
1
Traveling With His Family
He, his wife Tara and their sons Davis (14) and Lawton (12) make family travel a priority. Trips are often domestic, such as Washington D.C., but a few have been a bit more exotic. Belize and Puerto Rico were notable trips but Costa Rica truly stands out because the family was able to visit the church where he and Tara wed in 1996! A much anticipated trip to Iceland was planned for this year, but sadly the pandemic has forced that to be “put on ice.”
20 TANGI LIFESTYLES
FAVORITE THINGS
By Brian Shirey
2 Solitude
Time to self has always been cherished. The hectic demands of the Covid crisis have renewed Doc’s appreciation for the therapeutic benefits of 5am dog walks, hiking in the woods and “backyard therapy.”
3 Woodworking
After building a play table for his son Davis’ trains, he realized a knack and passion for woodwork. That play table project evolved into a nicely equipped woodworking shop in his garage and active membership in Bayou Woodturners. His creations have been diverse, but he truly enjoys making bowls and turning.
4
Annual Ski Trip With Brothers
For over 12 years, Doc has enjoyed an annual “boys ski trip.” His brothers James and Jacques are staples on the trip which may include as many as 10 added friends. The Rockies have been the range of choice. The fellowship and bonding reinforced by this annual trip is certainly strong enough to make this list.
5 Working With Youth
The son of a teacher, he has an appreciation for the support a community gives to its youth. As a committee chair for Boy Scouts and as a CASA volunteer, he finds fulfillment in serving and supporting the youth of our community.
JUNE/JULY 21
DR. ROBERT PELTIER'S
5
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There are two types of music that people like to hear. The first is a sweet melody from a classically trained vocalist. The second is “your claim will be paid” from your insurance agent.
With Colby McCurdy you get both.
Colby grew up in Slidell and received a music scholarship in 2003 to Southeastern Louisiana University. He was refining his talent as both a student and performer when things came to a sudden halt in 2005.
“Hurricane Katrina hit, and my mother’s home was ruined in Slidell. I took a year off from school to help my family.” Who knew a silver lining would be in those dark hurricane clouds.
In an odd way, the Katrina Experience would start an unforeseen path for McCurdy.
Dealing with a natural catastrophe for the first time in his life, Colby was able to see the important role insurance companies played in the recovery of communities. The other outcome of the Katrina Experience was he returned to Southeastern where he reconnected with his future wife, Blair Abene.
Blair was a music major as well and they had known each other before Katrina. One thing led to another and they were soon a couple with marriage in their future.
The Sounds Service of Great
— By Nick Gagliano —
Colby graduated with a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Music from Southeastern and worked as the Music Director at St. Joseph’s Abbey in Covington.
“After five years at the Abbey, I returned to Southeastern and received a degree in Communication Science and Disorders. I was planning on becoming a Speech Pathologist, but opportunity came knocking from my father-in-law Joe Abene.”
Abene had been an Allstate insurance agent in Ponchatoula for thirty years.
“Joe approached me and asked if I would like to keep the business in the family and take over his insurance agency.”
McCurdy said he never planned on being an insurance agent, but when he was approached by Abene, his thoughts returned to his memories of Katrina. He knew he had an opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives, and believed he could continue and expand the personal service tradition Abene and Allstate had established in the community.
“Next to marrying Blair, this was one of the best decisions I ever made. I love owning my own business and I am proud to be affiliated with a company with a 90-year tradition of service.”
McCurdy said Allstate is the type of company that stands ready to make their clients whole when disaster strikes.
26 TANGI LIFESTYLES
tangi COVER FEATURE
Allstate has revolutionized the claims process using the latest technology. Apps and software now make the claims process simple and fast. With QuickFoto Claim®, Allstate clients can upload photos of their damage with their smartphone to an in-house claims representative and in many cases, a portion of the claim amount is deposited in the client’s checking account the same day. This way work can immediately begin on repairing personal property or automobile damage.
Allstate was also the first insurance company in the nation to offer rebates to their automobile customers due to COVID-19. They refunded 15% of auto insurance premiums for the months of April and May to all their customers which amounted to approximately
If that was not enough, Allstate offers the Claim Satisfaction Guarantee. If a client is not totally satisfied with an auto claim, Allstate will refund six months of premiums to that client.
“Allstate continues to be named one of the 100 Most Ethical Companies in the World, and I feel it is imperative to provide my clients with the best personal service possible. I am always just a phone call away and my team is ready to help with claims, questions and advice. We also encourage folks to come by our office, enjoy a free cup of coffee, and get to know us in person.”
cies, halted cancellations of commercial policies and temporarily temporarily working as
national leader to tomer concerns pandemic. I am who puts their
McCurdy makes it a point to stress that local service and expert advice should be major components when making insurance decisions. Out of town insurance companies may be a little cheaper, but you do not get the personal service the customer deserves. The small amount of money you save is not worth the aggravation of calling long distance companies to help with a local problem.
“When you call me and tell me your house is on West Hickory Street in Ponchatoula, I know where that is. I don’t have to Google it to find the address. Price is important, but it’s not everything.”
McCurdy’s office is in the heart of Ponchatoula at 760 W. Pine Street. In July, he will be acquiring a second Allstate agency in Mandeville. A devoted husband and father, Colby can be found doting on his wife, Blair, and their two young children, Hugh and Hayden.
“With two vocalists in the house, we are always surrounded by music. It’s our way to relax and to celebrate our wonderful life.”
To the friends and clients of Colby McCurdy, that’s music to their ears.
APRIL/MAY 27
11737680 © 2020 A lls ta te Insu ran ce Co. Colby McCurdy 985-386-3538 760 West Pine Street Ponchatoula, LA
Southeastern Louisiana University
Southeastern Louisiana University
Congratulations 2020 GRADUATES!
28 TANGI LIFESTYLES
JACOB SCHMALTZ
REAGHAN IVEY Southeastern Louisiana University
REGAN OLIVIA BOLTON McNeese State University
SYDNEY MILTON LSU Dental School
28 TANGI LIFESTYLES
ALBERTO A. VALENZUELA
JUNE/JULY 33 ELLIE OPHELIA TOR NCE Albany High School TONY’S TIRE & AUTOMOTIVE 14340 W. University • Hammond 985.345.0850 www.tonystireandautomotive.com And to all 2020 graduates, we wish you safe travels on the road to your future! MARLEY VINET St. Thomas Aquinas LEAH M. BENFIELD OWENS Loranger High School BRENT SMITH Hammond High School
VALENTI Loranger High School
BLAIR RENEE
Hammond High Magnet
CO OR RUSHING Hammond High Magnet School
JACOB
DAMERON
School
ELIZABETH BRODN Ponchatoula High School
B NDON MOORE Ponchatoula High School
HUNTER STOETZNER
HEW LATINO Hammond High Magnet School JOSEPH DAGRO III Hammond High Magnet School BRE ON O’NEILL Hammond High Magnet School MASON GREER Hammond High Magnet School JUNE/JULY
FISHER
STOETZNER
MA
30 TANGI LIFESTYLES
ABBEY CLAIRE HARPER Ponchatoula High School
EMARI SMITH Ponchatoula High School
HUNTER RENO Ponchatoula High School
ETHAN TURPIN Hammond High Magnet School
EMILY STRICKER Ponchatoula High School
REANI ONI JOSEPH Ponchatoula High School
CO OR ENGALL Hammond High Magnet School
MADISON LEMMON
Loranger High School
BRIAR GUIDRY Independence High School
HALEY JO BROWN Hammod High Magbnet School
SIE FOUST
Loranger High School
BAILEY OLIPHANT
Loranger High School
HALEY HA AN SMITH Ponchatoula High School
MORGAN LINDSAY BANKSTON University View Academy
SLADE BANKSTON Albany High School
MAKENZIE BORDOK Ponchatoula High School
YLA BROWN Ponchatoula High School
STEWART St. Thomas Aquinas High School CLAIRE CYRUS St. Thomas Aquinas High School 30 TANGI LIFESTYLES
MARIA
NOELLE
GUAY Ponchatoula High School PARKER
JUNE/JULY 31
MIA CATHRYN KUGLER
As you continue your journey after high school, I wish each of you success in all you do. Dream big and then follow your dreams. www.judgegrace.com Paid for by
Ponchatoula High School
the Judge Grace Bennett Gasaway Campaign Committee Andrew Gasaway, Chairman Donna Fugarino Smith, Treasurer
BRE AN KING Ponchatoula High School
MARK BIENVENU Ponchatoula High School
B YDEN SAMUEL B ASE Ponchatoula High School
ALEXAND FALK Ponchatoula High School
MAYGAN ILISH O’MALLY Ponchatoula High School
CAMERON DIO E Ponchatoula High School
JUNE/JULY 31
JOSHUA WHIT MCLAIN Ponchatoula High School
32 TANGI LIFESTYLES
ANDRE PATE Ponchatoula High School
ETHAN CHRISTOPHER NELSON Albany High School
KEATON RIVERO Loranger High School
LOGAN WAYNE HENLEY Ponchatoula High School
B DLEY ATKINS Ponchatoula High School
TAYLOR KINCHEN Hammond High Magnet School
JOHN ROBERT GARDNER Ponchatoula High School
BROOK TUMINELLO Loranger High School
STEVEN GUANA JR. Ponchatoula High School
DANIEL PAUL GRIFFIN Loranger High School
TRENT COX Oak Forest Academy
ELIZABETH ROSE BROUILLE Mater Dolorosa Catholic School
HERMAN BAUTISTA JR.
CONGRATULATIONS YOU'RE THE STARS OF 2020! CONGRATULATIONS YOU'RE THE STARS OF 2020! 32 TANGI LIFESTYLES
CADE MAYEUX Hammond High Magnet School
Ponchatoula High School
2020 Graduate
Congratulations to all of our Seniors in Tangipahoa Parish
These last few months have been trying for all of our graduating seniors, and we are still proud of your accomplishments and resilience. Good Luck in all your future endeavors.
JUNE/JULY 33
DREW THOMPSON Albany High School
s www.tpso.org
EMMAG CE BROADWATER Hammond High Magnet School
BROOKE WRIGHT Ponchatoula High School
DANIEL CLAUD ACOSTA Hammond High School
CHLOE ERNST Ponchatoula High School
CAMRYN ERNST Ponchatoula High School
ABBY MARIE GA UDY Loranger High School
JUNE/JULY 33
TYLER Y BARBER Loranger High School
34 TANGI LIFESTYLES
KENTWOOD Hammond High Magnet School
MESSINA Loranger High School
CROCKERHAM Hammond High
I’ASIA SMITH
JACOB
JAIIA
Magnet School
AVASIA L. PARKER
Hammond High Magnet School
GARRE
SANDERS Hammond High Magnet School BRIA WILLIAMS Ponchatoula High School
EMILY MARIE WILSON Ponchatoula High School
STEWART Springfield High School JAMI CLE KIAL JOSEPH Springfield High School
EDWARDS-RIOJAS Springfield High School CHRISTIAN JONES Springfield High School RYAN "RJ" SERPAS JR Springfield High School KLOE R. CHATELLIER Springfield High School Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney Congratulations SENIORS I commend you on a job well done. ~ Scott Perrilloux Scott Perrilloux 34 TANGI LIFESTYLES
HAILEY PEYTON Springfield High School AUTUMN
CHELSEA
APRIL/MAY 35
Download Our Free App Today — 113 West Charles St, Hammond • 985-542-8466 • manninos.com
MEGAN CROWE Loranger High School
NILAN J. PINEST W Springfield High School
ANDREW FALCON Ponchatoula High School
MADISON DANIELLE SCO Ponchatoula High School
STARLIN STOETZNER Springfield High School
CAMDAN F ZIER Ponchatoula High School
NOAH MORGAN Independence High School
JACOB QUESADA Ponchatoula High School
CO OR MAGEE Hammond High Magnet School
ASHLEIGH T YLOR Doyle High School
JESSICA CLARK Ponchatoula High School
ALEXIS ADAMS Ponchatoula High School
JUNE/JULY
ZACHARY LAUBER Ponchatoula High School DEVIN SCHWEIBOLD Ponchatoula High School
36 TANGI LIFESTYLES
CO ER G HAM PERRICONE
Ponchatoula High School
LOCHLYN BEAUCHAMP Ponchatoula High School
ALYSSA SUE KYZAR Oak Forest Academy
EMILY PEOPLES
ANDREW MUSACCHIA Springfield Preparatory School
YLA WILLIAMS Ponchatoula High School
JADE DUPUY Ponchatoula High School
AVERY ANDERSON Ponchatoula High School
GABE HESTER
St. Thomas Aquinas High School
HOLLY ELIZABETH BORDELON Hammond High Magnet School
MARLEY NIKOLE VINET St. Thomas Aquinas High School
BRENT SMITH Hammond High Magnet School
JOHN BOURGOYNE IV
Ponchatoula High School
CADYN REED St. Thomas Aquinas High School
SINCERE ENGLISH Amite High Magnet School
MADISON DOWELL Hammond High Magnet School
B NY RICKS Albany High School
SA H GOMEZ
St. Joseph’s Catholic School
COYT DILLON BAILEY
St. Thomas Aquinas High School
ERIN FOSTER Hammond Eastside Magnet School
Congratulations Graduates
JUNE/JULY 37
MADELINE MAURIN Ponchatoula High School
Robby Miller — Tangipahoa Parish President
BLAKE JOSEPH ARCENEAUX Springfield High School
HALEY FACIANE Ponchatoula High School
SA H BAILEY
DA H HAIDET
St. Thomas Aquinas High School
KELTON EMILE BAUGH Ponchatoula High School
COY BAHAM Independence High School
A ALEA GIAMALVA
GABRIELLE THOMAS University View Academy
JULIE E LE Y St. Thomas Aquinas High School
YLA GANGI
St. Thomas Aquinas High School
JACIE LEIGH BELLINA Hammond Eastside Magnet School
SOPHIE DOMINGUE Hammond High Magnet School
JORDAN ANDREW MAZZENO Ponchatoula High School
38 TANGI LIFESTYLES
TALAJAH ROBINSON MADISON MORGAN Ponchatoula High School
ETHAN GIBSON Hammond High Magnet School
JE A DU INGTON Loranger High School
CADE AUSTIN HILL Ponchatoula High School
HUNTER FAYARD Loranger High School
HEATHER HABISREITINGER
MASON RICHARD Ponchatoula High School
WYA WILSON Loranger High School
MORGAN ROBERTSON Ponchatoula High School
CASEY MELANCON JR. Ponchatoula High School
HALLIE KENT Oak Forest Academy
ABBEY WAINWRIGHT Albany High School
LIFESTYLES
G CIE WAINWRIGHT Albany High School TANGI
MALLORIE VACCARO Ponchatoula High School
JORDAN JACKSON Hammond High Magnet School
Congratulations on reaching this milestone and best of luck in all of your future endeavors.
APRIL/MAY 43 We
proud of all the area Seniors.
are
Sherman
Mack 2 2 5 . 5 6 7 . 9 0 6 0 18983 Florida Blvd, Albany
ETHAN WELLS Hammond High Magnet School
ZACK LIUZZA Oak Forest Academy
G CY ROTHWELL Hammond High Magnet School
KYLIE BAUDEAN St. Thomas Aquinas High School
WILKINS DOWDY Hammond High Magnet School
JACKS DOWDY Hammond High Magnet School
LAYLA SUMMERS Hammond Eastside Magnet School
SANYA BRUMFIELD Champ Cooper School
40 TANGI LIFESTYLES
DYLAN CHRISTOPHER JAMES
Paid for by
The Right Choice –The Experienced Choice A Special Salute to all our 2020 Graduates. You persevered and you did it!
Ponchatoula High School
the Pat Farris for Marshal Campaign
ALEXIS BAILEY
Ponchatoula High School
LAUREN DROUET
Ponchatoula High School
LAINIE BUTE
Ponchatoula High School
B DY NUNEZ
Ponchatoula High School
ALEXA O St. Thomas Aquinas High School
GABRIELLE SPARNECHT Ponchatoula High School
CHEYA E HARTMAN Ponchatoula High School
DESTINY GREEN
Ponchatoula High School
E’SHA HOGAN Ponchatoula High School
HEATH JOSEPH JENKINS
Ponchatoula High School
RICHARDSON Ponchatoula High
MASON MARK PERRIN Ponchatoula High School 40 TANGI LIFESTYLES
ZEPH
MAJOR
Oak Forest Academy
CANDICE
School
JUNE/JULY 41 NORTHSHOREMEDIA.NET Does your business have over 28,000 LIKES? Tangi Lifestyles is mailed directly to over 28,000 homes and businesses. tangilifestyles.com
CHASE TIPPI Champ Cooper Elementary — now open— WALK-IN No Appointment Needed! (In Medical Office Building on Cypress Pointe Hospital campus) 19065 John Lambert Drive • Suite 1100 • 985.222.5577 www.CypressPointeUrgentCare.com M-F 8AM - 8PM • Sat & Sun 10AM - 6PM GARRE REASON Holy Ghost Catholic School LUKE & LOGAN LOGARBO Champ Cooper Elementary
ENGLADE Holy Ghost Catholic School BRODIE GOMEZ Holy Ghost Catholic School CAMILLE G CE SCAFIDEL Courtney Christian School KYLE SYLVE Perrin Early Learning Center LANCE CAMBRE JR. Holy Ghost Catholic School TENLEY WADDELL Holy Ghost Catholic School JE IE GAY Holy Ghost Catholic School HARLEY WHITE Perrin Early Learning Center KOREY PRITCHARD Champ Cooper Elementary AVERY PRITCHARD Champ Cooper Elementary 42 TANGI LIFESTYLES
KINSLEY
LILLY LANDRY
Holy Ghost Catholic Schooll
Judge Rick Swartz has handled several thousand criminal and civil cases during his tenure on the bench.
• District Court Judge – 22nd Judicial District – 2009-Present
• Chief Judge – 22nd Judicial District Court – 2016-2018
• Supervisor – 22nd Judicial District DWI/Sobriety Court Program October 2011-Present
LOGAN FOY
Champ Cooper Elementary
Paid for by the Committee to Elect Judge Richard A “Rick” Swartz Election Day: Saturday, July 11 • Early Voting: June 20 – July 4 www swartz4judge com
PURVIS
CAMPO
CRU
Champ Cooper Elementary MABEL
Oak Forest Academy BARRE TOMPKINS Perrin Early Learning Center
EMILY ABBESS
Champ Cooper Elementary
COOPER GOMEZ Holy Ghost Catholic School
LAINEY SUE CERVANTES Holy Ghost Catholic School
HARRIS HORGAN Holy Ghost Catholic School
CHLOE STUTES
Holy Ghost Catholic School
DU
LAINEY
Holy Ghost Catholic School
VANDER ZYDALLAS
Champ Cooper Elementary
ELI BYERS Champ Cooper Elementary JACOB LUKE ROGERS Oak Forest Academy JUNE/JULY 51 JUNE/JULY 43
VALLEN TYNE ZYDALLAS Champ Cooper Elementary
Saint Thomas Aquinas Catholic High School
44 TANGI LIFESTYLES
Blake Estes Kayla Gangi
Bobbie Griggs
Charles Harrison Gabe Hester
Jade Hurst
Jyrion Dangerfield Lani DiBenedetto
Cameron Doody
Connor Doody Austin Dupré Dustin Dyson
Brooke Bell John Blanchard
Briona Bonaccorso Coreyanna Butler Patrick Cody Claire Cyrus
Kate Graziano Valedictorian
Caroline Casey Salutatorian
Ethan Mixon Darah Haidet
Juliette LeRay
Tyler Domiano
Rebekah Johnson
Laken Neal
Kylie Baudean
Paige Bankston
of o
The Class of 2020 has received more than $3.27 million in scholarship offers from nationwide colleges and universities. Southeastern Louisiana University, Louisiana State University, Belhaven University, Loyola University, University of Louisiana Monroe, Southern University, Arizona State University, University of Alabama, University of Southern Mississippi, Spring Hill College, University of Louisiana Lafayette, Dodge City Community College, and Paris Parker-Aveda. Saint Thomas Aquinas
Completed 1,647.5 hours of service to our community. Places of service: Holy Ghost Church and School, St. Joseph School, Our Lady of Pompeii Church, First United Methodist Church, CASA, Tangipahoa Parish Library, Rosaryville Spirit Life Center, Our Daily Bread, Tangi Food Pantry, Regina Coeli Child Development Center, Hammond Kiwanis, Hammond Nursing Home, St. Vincent DePaul, Trafton Academy, Woodland Park Elementary, North Oaks Medical Center, Fuller Center, Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church, and Mater Dolorosa School.
APRIL/MAY 45
Regional Catholic High School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, or athletic and other school-administered programs
Jordan Hurst Kayla Keller Aidan Koren Matthew Linn Jesse Littell Madison Loria
Lillian Maggio Sean McCabe DaVaria McClain Lauren McNeal Angelina Mesa Taylor Mushtare
Myles Naquin Alexa Ott
Victoria Perez
Madeline Pistorius Isabella Rayborn Cadyn Reed
Jyra Richard Douglas Robinson Chalah Rock Emma Smith Parker Stewart Mason Thompson
stafalcons.org JUNE/JULY 45
Tim Tran Mason Turner Marley Vinet Chloe Williams Devon Wilson
Lynn
Maria Vincenza
Emilee Isabella Casanova MaKenna Janae Cassel Robert Joseph Chadwick
Wesley Corkern Laney Rene Courtney Trent Thomas Harold Cox Benjamin Howard Dees Brody Aaron DeSouge Noah Seay Easley
David Falcone Alexis Chaille Genovese Tori Paige Gillies Braeden Scott Hallmark Jordan Scott Hawkins Cameron Charles Heck William Russell Henderson Preston Patrick Hennington Shelly Paige Hoffstadt Carson Ambrose Hoover Clayton Shaun
Jacob
Oak Forest ACADEMY 600 WALNUT ST, AMITE, LA • (985) 748-4321 • WWW.OFAJACKETS.ORG VALEDICTORIAN SALUTATORIAN TOP STUDENT TOP STUDENT TOP STUDENT TOP STUDENT 46 TANGI LIFESTYLES
Jace Richard Angelette Tristan Slade Anthony Laila Renee’ Baham Nathan Clayton Battles Anna Lynn Blanchard Koby Heath Bradley Christopher Vincent Brown Shaya
Brumfield
Campo
Toye
Joshua
Houeye
Stirling Junkins
SALUTES OUR CLASS OF 2020
Dalton Travis Kennedy Hallie Elizabeth Kent Madison Cierra King Alyssa Sue Kyzar Hunter Dane Lambert Jaden Blair Lambert
Thomas Edward Lee Zack Joseph Liuzza Zeph Hunter Major Robert Esco McDaniel Braxten Anthony McGovern Keaten David McGraw
Emma Caroline McNabb Alehtse Damar Mendoza Joshmar Saul Mendoza Nathalia Nicole Mendoza Drake Scott Milton Kaylyn Denise Murphy
Jonathan David Neal Sidney Allen Perez
Samuel Michael Perise Steven Thomas Pray Gabrielle Nicole Ragusa Kailey Elizabeth Shakerin
Chase Anthony Sider Kate Lynn Simmons Slade Loyd Smith Alec Jason Sparks Logan Watkins Sparks
Austin Reed Stafford
Aley Blake Stewart Alaina Louise Strong
Brody Dale Tate Samantha JoAnn Thompson Kayla Jean Watts Trevor Shane Whittington
TOP STUDENT TOP STUDENT TOP STUDENT TOP STUDENT TOP STUDENT TOP STUDENT TOP STUDENT TOP STUDENT TOP STUDENT TOP STUDENT TOP STUDENT JUNE/JULY 51
985.429.8588 johnnychauvinphotography.com SEEN & SEEN & 48 TANGI LIFESTYLES
Continued on next page & HE HE ARD ARD BAYOU PAIN & SPINE ARTEMUS FLAGG II, MD, MPH Committed to our Nation. Committed to You! 985.288.5088 | bayoupainandspine.com SOUTHERN RAISED MILITARY STRENGTHENED JOHNS HOPKINS TRAINED 15739 Professional Plaza Hammond, LA 70403 JUNE/JULY 49
A
www.indysicilianfest.com 50 TANGI LIFESTYLES
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