Tangi Lifestyles June/July 2022

June/July 2022 | Volume 16, Issue 3

Favorite Things - Megan Romano | Annie Award Winners | Coach Trey Willie

The Hy Tech name may be new, but we have been serving south Louisiana for several years. Owner Darren Averitt has been in the foundation repair, lifting, and elevation field for over 25 years. Hy Tech Concrete offers exceptional customer service and quality work that is of superior value.

• Patios • Front Porches

• Driveways • Sidewalks

• Parking Lots • Steps

• Pool Decks • Sealing Bulkheads

• Sink Hole Deep Injection and More!

Summer is finally here and if it’s anything like the spring, it’s going to be a nice, hot and BUSY summer! This issue of Tangi Lifestyles features a new era at Ponchatoula High, along with another story about the end of an era at a Holy Ghost Catholic Church. We also honor ladies who have excelled in their fields with the Annie Awards while highlighting area dads for their special day. We have so many good things happening in our community! Thank you for reading and celebrating just some of what is wonderful in the place we call home.

As we get out and enjoy activities this summer brings, please remember our local businesses. Summer can be slow for them and with the growth of giants like Amazon, it does sometimes seem much easier to shop from the comfort of our homes rather than to support small business in the community we’ve all chosen to call home. When we buy local and promote local, our community as a whole benefits. Our Northshore Media Group family looks forward to seeing you in one of our awesome local businesses this summer.

PUBLISHER

Northshore Media Group

Angela Blake

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS

Johnny Chauvin

Phillip Colwart

Riyen Helg

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Erin Bolton

Eloise Cottrell

Charles Dowdy

Nick Gagliano

Brian Shirey

Debi Menasco

Kiyomi Appleton Gaines

Amber Narro

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

June/July 2022

Volume 16, Issue 3

On the Cover:

Northshore Media Group

200 East Thomas St. Hammond, LA 70401

985.345.0060

by Riyen Helg

Tangi Lifestyles is a bi-monthly publication produced by Northshore Broadcasting, 200 East Thomas Street, Hammond, LA 70401. All rights reserved. Tangi Lifestyles is staffproduced 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.

North Cypress Fitness Center owners Dion Grossnickle and Dr. Rick Henry knew Pickleball would be a natural fit for the club and the community. Pickleball is a court sport played on a badminton-sized court and it is played with a perforated plastic ball and composite or wooden paddles about twice the size of ping-pong paddles. Learn more about this hot new sport on page 8.

Cover photo by Johnny Chauvin

Photo

44. Tangi Neighbors Pharmacy 50-Year Club

56. 5 Favorite Things Megan Romano

60. Tangi Social Scene

Photo by Phillip Colwart

JUNE JULY

June

2022

Through June 17, 2022

The Pelican State Goes to War: Louisiana in World War II

On view Wednesdays-Fridays noon to 6 p.m.

Hammond Regional Arts Center www.hammondarts.org

Through June 17, 2022

The Service: A Salute to the U.S. Military On view Wednesdays-Fridays noon to 6 p.m.

Hammond Regional Arts Center www.hammondarts.org

6/10 • 1pm

Food for Thought Pre-Planning Seminar LN Hughes Funeral Services, LLC lnhughes.com

June 27-July 1

ARTisTRY Summer Art Camp 10 AM to Noon

Hammond Regional Arts Center www.hammondarts.org

6/13-17

SMILE Band Camp Ponchatoula twinsteeples.org

6/20-24

Professional Prep: Dance + Theatre Ponchatoula twinsteeples.org

6/22

Tangipahoa Professional Women Luncheon 11:30 - 1 • The Oaks tangipw.org

6/28

Professional Prep: Visual Arts Ponchatoula twinsteeples.org

July

6/18-22

Strike Up the Band Camp Ponchatoula twinsteeples.org

7/8-10, 15-17, 22-24

Oliver the Musical at the Swamplight Theatre Ponchatoula www.swamplight.org

7/10 • 1pm

Food for Thought Pre-Planning Seminar LN Hughes Funeral Services, LLC lnhughes.com

7/16

New Orlean's Mission Run with Purpose Fountainbleu State Park 7-8:30 Registration • 9 AM Race neworleansmission.org

7/27

Tangipahoa Professional Women Luncheon 11:30 - 1 • Location TBD tangipw.org

On-Going

FIRST FRIDAY OF MONTH

Gospel Music Fest

13101 Hwy, 442 W., Tickfaw 985.974.0507, mvmgoodnews.com

EVERY SATURDAY

Hammond Farmers Market

103 E. Robert St. Hammond 8 am-12 pm • Facebook.com/hammondmarket

Independence Craft & Farmers’ Market 750 E. Railroad Ave., Independence, 8.30 am-1 pm • Facebook.com/Independence

Denham Springs Farmers’ Market Historical District, 8 am-12 pm

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

Ponchatoula Farmers’ Arts & Crafts Market 10 E. Pine, Ponchatoula • 985.386.9580 ponchatoulacountrymarket.org • Fri. 9 -5 • Sat.10 - 5

2ND TUESDAY

Grief Support Group

LN Hughes Funeral Services • lnhughes.com Amite Chamber Monthly Luncheon Mike’s Catfish

Because there’s no place like home.

Whether you’re seeking someone to simply help with errands and companionship, or looking for around the clock assistance, we provide in-home care services 24/7.

PICKLEBALL PICKLEBALL

The Hottest Sport Now has a Home at North Cypress Fitness Center

Here’s your end of the school year pop quiz:

1. What is the fastest growing, multi-generational sport in the country?

2. What sport attracts young players through the various social media platforms?

3. What sport allows all family members, regardless of age, to play together?

4. What sport provides exercise in a family-friendly environment?

5. What premier sports fitness center has constructed a brand-new, LED-lit, state-of-the-art facility to provide playing space?

The answers please:

1A. Pickleball .... 2A. Pickleball ... 3A. Pickleball ... 4A. Pickleball ... 5A. North Cypress Fitness Center

When it comes to keeping up with the latest sports and fitness trends, North Cypress Fitness Center owners Dion Grossnickle and Dr. Rick Henry have their pulse on what’s hot.

“Last year, Dr. Rick and I were planning what new program or project were we going to introduce at North Cypress,” said Grossnickle. “We heard about Pickleball and as we learned more about the sport, we knew it would be a natural fit for our club and our community.”

Written

Pickleball is a court sport played on a badminton-sized court and it is played with a perforated plastic ball and composite or wooden paddles about twice the size of ping-pong paddles.

According to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association, Pickleball grew in 2021 to 4.8 million players in the US, an incredible two-year growth rate of 39.3%. The average age for all players is 38.1 years old and 79% of ccasual players are 54 or younger.

“What makes Pickleball so much fun is that it is easy for beginners to learn, but can develop into a fast-paced, competitive game for experienced players,” said Grossnickle. “Plus, the game has developed a passionate following due to its friendly, social nature, and its multi-generational appeal.”

Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles, and new players can learn the basic rules quickly in a single session. No special apparel is needed – just something comfortable and appropriate for a court sport.

North Cypress Fitness Center opened their new Pickleball courts in April 2022. The four new courts are professionally built with all the lines, nets, and court surface to make it a premier facility in southeast Louisiana.

“The response has been tremendous, and we see families of all ages enjoying themselves on the court. Seeing their enjoyment just strengthens our resolve to expand the game for our club members and our community.”

Pickleball attracts players of all ages and skill level. It is very

easy to grasp the concept and players can be very successful on the court in a short amount of time.

Grossnickle has employed a Pickleball instructor who will give free clinics and teach the rules for both club members and non-club members. Additionally, North Cypress Fitness Center has free-play where non-club members can schedule playtime during the designated free-play block of time.

“Since Tangipahoa Parish is centrally located, we have players from New Orleans, the Mississippi Gulf and Zachary meeting in Hammond to play Pickleball on our courts. Now that is exciting and keeps us wanting to expand the sport.”

2022 marks the 57th anniversary of Pickleball, as it was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, a short ferry ride from Seattle, by three enterprising dads – Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum. Their children were bored with their usual summertime activities. It evolved from the original handmade equipment and simple rules into a popular sport throughout North America and is now taking off in other parts of the world.

“We are just beginning to scratch the surface of the sport’s potential. Since it is so inexpensive to start a team, I would love to see all our local schools introduce Pickleball to their students. It’s a great way for our young people to exercise, experience a new sport, and build friendships on and off the court.”

Now for the Bonus Question worth double the points: When are you going to start playing Pickleball?

by Nick Gagliano | Photos by Johnny Chauvin

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Annie Award Honorees

2022 Annie Award Winners

Written by Amber Narro |

The Tangipahoa Chamber of Commerce Annie Awards, established in 1998 in honor of the late Southeastern Louisiana Administrator Dr. Anne Ferguson, honor women who excel in their respective realms of expertise and are setting the pace for our region’s future. Since the inception of the Annie Awards, the Tangipahoa Chamber has honored over 65 women who work in excellence and have a true servant’s heart for our community.

The 2022 honorees will be recognized at a luncheon sponsored by Tangi Lifestyles on Friday, June 3, at the Southeastern Louisiana University Student Union Grand Ballroom.

Annie Award honorees are not only givers who work on teams, boards, and committees, these women are leaders and challenge the status quo. They are appreciative of those who have contributed to their success and cherish the footprints that have defined their paths. They have formed strong relationships in our community and use their voices as instruments of encouragement and strength.

Call the Tangipahoa Chamber at 985-345-4457 for more information on ticket availability.

Presented by

Photos by Phillip Colwart

Brigette Delatte Hyde

A true representative of her area, Brigette takes action to help solve local challenges. She is the District 9 representative on the Tangipahoa Parish Council and is in her second consecutive term as council Chairwoman.

Involved in a variety of volunteer efforts for decades spanning church youth programs with Bedico Baptist Church, 4-H, and community projects, Brigette actively seeks opportunities to participate in beautifying the parish and implementing smart growth efforts.

Brigette is paving the way for her daughter Irma to follow in her footsteps. She has modeled volunteerism through organizing school activities at St. Joseph's School and Ponchatoula High School, non-profit committee work and participation in countless fundraising activities. She is helping coordinate Ponchatoula High School’s Project Graduation to help seniors stay safe on commencement night. As a member former ten year member of the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival Board and current Leadership Tangipahoa Board, Brigette shows her love for community involvement. In 1998, she even helped reorganize the Ponchatoula Jaycees and build a foundation for the club that exists today.

As a small business owner since 1997, Brigette and her husband Jesse have remained lifelong residents of the Robert/Ponchatoula area.

Ashley Edwards Bass

Ashley Edwards Bass wants her children and grandchildren to engage in their community as she has. Her service spans education, health initiatives, and youth services.

Ashley has been a respected member of the Louisiana Bar Association for 24 years and is a full partner at Cashe, Coudrain & Bass. As counsel for the Tangipahoa School System, Ashley sees Tangipahoa’s potential firsthand and credits community efforts and current leadership for steering parish growth in the right direction.

While also working at the law firm, Ashley represented victims of domestic violence in her role with the 21st Judicial District Attorney’s Office. She has served as Tangipahoa Chamber of Commerce Education Committee Vice-Chair, Board Vice-Chair for the Diocesan School Board for Baton Rouge, and was chosen to serve on the Board of Trustees for LSU Law.

Ashley has volunteered for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, Child Advocacy Services, and Holy Ghost School. She was the 2008 Hammond Junior Auxiliary Woman of the Year, Holy Ghost School Distinguished Graduate in 2014, and received the 2018 Mother Seton of St. Thomas Award. In 2020, Ashley was honored as Tangi Lifestyles Best Attorney.

Ashley and her husband, Chris, have a blended family and live in Hammond. She is focused on continuing her efforts for children in the area and inspiring others to get involved in making Tangipahoa an even better place to live.

For over 10 years, Salad Station has been bringing healthier communities to the Southeast. In 2012, Co-Founder & President, Scott Henderson, envisioned the concept of a salad restaurant providing fresh local produce combined with fast and friendly service. Mother and business partner, Cindy Henderson, offered her full support as she felt the concept was a perfect continuation of the family’s passion of the farming industry. With store #1 opening on Fagan Drive in Hammond, LA much more than a restaurant was brought to life.

With over 26 locations and growing, Salad Station is expanding. New stores coming in 2022: Tampa, FL, Jonesboro, AR; Irving, TX; Prairieville, LA; Oxford, MS; and Clarksville, TN. Salad Station is viewed as an up-and-coming franchise in the fast casual dining industry. With family-oriented concept, lower investment, low staffing requirements, proven systems, and friendly hours (closed on Sundays.) With the unique pay by the pound concept, guests are able to pay for exactly what they create. If interested in learning more, please contact us at saladstationfranchise.com or call D’Ann Davis at (985) 789-7586.

Faye Ivanyisky's volunteerism began alongside her career. But this dedication to her community traces back to her childhood when she watched her mother give countless hours to organizations — some contributions that Faye didn’t even realize until after her mother died as friends recounted stories.

She carried on this legacy of giving with work on the original Hammond Northshore Regional Airshow. After its 25-year hiatus, she has not skipped a beat and serves on its current committee. As a charter member of the LHSAA Top 28 Girls Basketball Tournament committee, Faye recruited volunteers and ensured several years of smooth operation for this event that has now welcomed tens of thousands of people to Hammond.

Hammond BBQ, the Santa Bear project, FeLions Champagne Bingo and Southeastern’s Rock N’ Roar Festival have all benefited from Faye’s contributions. She has also served as a volunteer for Southeastern’s Alumni Association, the United Way and the annual Back to School Bash.

Faye has been a member of the Board of Directors for both Options and the Richard Murphy Hospice Foundation, taking leadership roles in events for both organizations. She was awarded the Southeastern Louisiana University Alumni Directors Diamond Award for outstanding volunteer service to the university in 2007.

Now looking toward retirement, Faye is not about to slow down. She already has commitments to work on other community projects and activities. However” sentence. “She is certainly looking forward to spending time with BJ, daughter Sarah, son-in-law Tray, grandson Lane and the entire family.

SUMMER PROMO VIBES!

Jenni O’Neil

Jenni O’Neil is a Hammond native and life-long resident of Tangipahoa Parish. She is a graduate of Southeastern and has worked for the Tangipahoa Chamber of Commerce, Options and Southeastern Alumni Association. She also owned her own business and helped area nonprofits increase fundraising revenue.

Jenni is a breast cancer survivor who was originally diagnosed at only 33 years old. After winning her battle, she went on to advocate for early detection and screening as well as serving as a confidante for those also fighting the disease. Additionally, she now helps raise money for Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center where she received her treatment. The funds help provide transportation, nutritional supplements, and mammograms to local women.

Jenni is a 2016 participant of Leadership Tangipahoa, has volunteered with Holy Ghost School on various committees and as event chair, and worked as public relations chair for the Tangipahoa Professional Women’s Organization. She was the 2021 Holy Ghost Catholic School Alumni of the Year.

Jenni and her husband, John, live in Ponchatoula with their two children, Jonathan and Joleigh.

Sign up online for our free Summer Reading Program! www.TangiLibrar y.com READ MORE!

MAY 31–JUNE 2 Yuck Show

JUNE 7– 9 JoJo the Magician

JUNE 14 –16 Johnette Downing

Tangipahoa Parish Librar y is bringing you an ocean of fun activities! Enjoy weekly programs for all ages, in branches and online, while reading to reach your goals and earn prizes. Visit www.tangilibrar y.com for a complete program listing.

RE A D TO ME AGES BIRTH –Read to your child or have your child read to reach goals, receive prizes and earn raffle tickets to win special prizes.

CHILDREN

Read to reach goals, receive prizes and earn raffle tickets to win special prizes.

JUNE 21–23 Dinosaur Experience

JUNE 28 –30 Sheryl Faye

JULY 5 – 7 Wow O’Clock

JULY 12–14 Shana Banana

JULY 19 –21 Lady Chops

JULY 26 –28 Animal Tales

Saturdays in JUNE and JULY Kim’s Pony Carousel

TEEN

Read to reach goals and receive prizes. Earn raffle tickets to win special prizes.

A DULT +

Submit book reviews for raffle tickets to win a

Track yo u r m i n utes!

Track your minutes read, from anywhere! Go to our website and follow the link to the Summer Reading Program or download the Beanstack App!

Hammond is a great place to live, work and play for EVERY GENERATION.

Let’s keep our community moving forward...

Voting Day — November 8, 2022

This is my calling. Trey Willie —

Written by Nick Gagliano | Photos by Riyen Helg

Coach Trey Willie is more than ready to make waves at Ponchatoula High School.

“Coach Hank was my mentor,” Trey Willie says. “He still is. He’s a great, great mentor in the way he taught me how to prepare for practice, prepare for games, you know, what makes you a successful coach. If you’re not organized, it’s mass chaos.”

Trey Willie worked as an assistant coach under Hank Tierney for nearly a decade. With Tierney’s retirement, Willie has now been named Head Coach for Ponchatoula High School’s football team.

“Coach Hank laid the blueprint out there,” he continues. “I mean, if it’s not broken, don’t fix it. I know I have big shoes to fill because he’s won three hundred games and is a great coach. But the good thing is, I can always call him -- he’s one phone call away.”

A native of Loranger, it’s been a winding journey for Willie to return to Ponchatoula. After pursuing a degree in kinesiology and health studies, he gained experience in coaching and in life, “I left and went to Amite for two years. And then I went to Texas for a year and then I came back here. I feel like this is my calling. You go through things in life, I didn’t get a couple of head coaching jobs and I felt frustrated [and thought] let me try something else. And then it just called me back. I missed it. Then I was like, Ah, this is what I’m supposed to be doing.”

Willie says he always played football but was a small kid when he started high school. He was a walk-on baseball player when he started at Southeastern Louisiana University. When they brought football back in 2003, he took advantage of the opportunity to try out. “ I actually made the team as a tight end and then was switched to quarterback in 2005,” he says. “They switched me to tight end after my first year. In my junior year, I was a backup quarterback. The starting quarterback, a talented guy, got hurt and he switched to receiver, and I played quarterback.”

But simple knowledge of the game isn’t enough to make a successful head coach. “You know, a lot of people think because I played college football and played quarterback that makes me a good coach. But what makes a good coach, in my opinion, is just my relationship with our kids. It’s being able to communicate with them. It doesn’t matter what I know if they can’t pick it up. So, I have to break it down for them, whatever it may be, organization or a practice plan or the game plan, the verbiage that we use to call plays. They have to be able to understand.”

“I was the head coach for softball here for three or four years and you deal with a lot of things,” he says. “But it allowed me to realize there’s more to coaching than X’s and O’s. [In coaching,] you’re a counselor, you’re a parent, a father figure, big brother, whatever it may be. You have to be out there for these kids.”

Learn more about the Green Wave team schedule and events and follow the team on social media.

ROGER GILL

CHARLES DOWDY

BLAKE ESTA

Father's Day • June 19

"I quit working on the road and being gone all the time to enjoy my family! This is how H5 Fence Co. got started. No more missing out on family life! I adore being a dad."- Cody Howes

"Being a Father is a Privilege and a Blessing. The Love felt and shared between a Father and his Children is hard to describe with words. It is so unique and special you can only understand it by living it." -Brandon Schanzbach

"To be a Father/Grandfather is simply the greatest accomplishment of my life. Although their younger years are irraplacable, watching them grow and become productive, active, loving adults is truly amazing. A perfect pay-off." - Roger Gill

a father is a wonderful experience!

"To me fatherhood means that I was my son's first hero and my daughter's first love. It means being able to show my kids how to catch butterflies and face paint, using non-toxic paint of course, and have sing-a-longs and make smores. I also like sewing patches on their clothes. They are my world." - Judge Britain Sledge

"Being a boy dad means never having a dull moment. Each day I strie to set the best example I can for my three boys. We love sports, building things, the outdoors, and Cub Scout adventures! We are always on the go and I'm ready to experience what is out there through the eyes of my boys. I love my crew!" - Danny Caillouet

"Being

Every day is a new adventure with many surprises."- Marquinn Duke

In honor of Father’s Day we asked local residents what being a father means to them.

"The greatest gift a man has is his family. Happy Father's Day." - Ryan Barker

"Being a father has been my greatest achievement. Fatherhood has taught me unconditional love, patience, and how to be a better person." - Jason Wilson

"A father is someone your children can rely on, someone who is a role model, and someone who is obligated to do the best they can for his family. " -Tom Dawsey

"Being a DAD is all about the little things. We have quality time, laughs and learning but most of all LOVE. It’s the little things that make being a dad priceless." - Marcus McMillian

"My favorite thing about being a dad is that all of the girls depend on me to come to through for them when they need me."

- Jason Hood

I grew up in a house full of boys, but I love being a girl dad. I get to teach them about all the biking, hiking and four-wheeling we did as kids, and the girls teach me about their ballet, princesses, volleyball and all the other things they like. With an 8th grader and a preschooler, it gets a little crazy sometimes, but it’s so much fun watching them grow up!”- Matthew Alford

"Being a father, to me, means unlimited amounts of love and joy, given and received-" Casey Potts

"The Joy of being a father is learning “Deep True Love” right at birth! Then watching Madi and Chloe dance and perform while taking pictures of them constantly! Then watching them grow into amazing students and now adulthood! It happens way too fast!!" - Johnny Chauvin

"Noah is now 14. In one of my favorite pictures of the two of us, Noah was having a rough day, and I am reminding him to smile and not take life so seriously. This picture reminds me that I am obligated to try to bring him out of the dark places when he gets stuck, and to be the best man I can be for my family. I am obligated to use wisdom when finding a way, even when a path is not marked for him. And one of the hardest obligations is the daily demonstration of God's grace to myself, Noah and others. Noah, you AMAZE ME!!!"- TJ Maggio

“Kids put life into perspective. Life happens and you may get bad news sometimes or things don’t go your way at work, etc., but that doesn’t affect my mood from day to day. I love going home and seeing the smiles on my sons’ faces being happy to see me and that makes everything alright.” - Marc Young

"Before I became a dad myself, I never fully understood what drove my own father. I took for granted the humble sacrifices he made. Now that I'm the father of two boys, I just want to adequately teach them to become self-sufficient, good men. So far, it's been incredibly fun and challenging."- Jim Kofoed

"Being a Father is the most wonderful privilege in the world. They are lifes blessings from our heavenly Father."

- Dougie Lagroue

Here’s a few pool safety tips:

• Always have an adult in the pool with children.

• Have children use approved oatation devices.

• Don’t drink and swim in unknown rivers or lakes.

• Don’t dive if you can’t see the bottom.

tpso.org

• Sewage Infrastructure Overhaul

• Downtown Parking Garage

• Airport Improvements

• Completion of Bike Path

• Hammond Beautification Projects

•

— Water Park & Amusement Center

CRYSTAL BONEY

Lead Pastor

The Mission Church

themission.org

Sundays 8:00 | 9:30 | 11:00

The Mission Church

41347 W I-55 Service Rd

Hammond, LA 70403

Remember Your Way

“But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you My power and that My name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” Exodus 9:16

Jesus is our mission. On the good days and the bad days. In the enjoyable moments and in the difficult moments. In public and in private. Through the chaos and the calm. Our mission, our purpose, is to advance the kingdom of God and continuously point people to Jesus.

Sometimes we can be so busy about our lives that we forget the purpose behind it. We are driven by the demands of life, never realizing that God has a greater purpose. A purpose that not only encompasses our lives, but the lives of those around us - at home, in the workplace, in our schools, and throughout our community.

God wants to use us to make a difference in the lives of those around us, but we have to slow down enough to listen to what He is saying. We must be willing to allow our lives to be interrupted. Every interruption allows for an opportunity to impact those who are hurting, lost, or in need. When we choose with purpose to see these moments not as distractions in our lives, but as an opportunity to live a life on purpose, we begin to lead and live more meaningfully in each and every moment. Life can feel very full at times for everyone, but we all choose to make time for what is important to us. Seasons come and seasons go, but our purpose will always remain the same. We aren’t perfect and will miss the mark, but everyday we get to choose to live our lives on purpose for a purpose: loving God and loving people.

Farewell to our DominicansOrder of Preachers

A 110 year tradition will end in June at Holy Ghost Catholic Church when the Dominican Priests leave the church parish and there is a feeling of sadness throughout Holy Ghost Parish.

“It certainly is a sad time as the Dominicans are leaving Hammond,” said Nick Gagliano. “Everyone who attends Holy Ghost Church today has celebrated Mass with a Dominican Priest and many of us who attended Holy Ghost School or St. Thomas Aquinas High School had Dominican Sisters as their principal or teacher.”

In the Catholic Church, priests are either a member of a religious order or a diocesan priest. A religious order is a community of consecrated life with members that profess solemn vows. Some of the more well-known religious orders are Jesuits, Benedictines, Franciscans and of course, Dominicans. These religious orders tend to live in communities with several priests and deacons under one roof where they eat, pray, and live together. They answer

Story by Nick Gagliano

to both the Bishop of the Diocese and their order’s Provincial.

For Diocesan priests, they only answer to the Bishop and they typically serve as pastors in parishes throughout a diocese.

As for the history of the religious orders at Holy Ghost Parish, the Benedictines were charged with the spiritual care of Hammond in 1890. Records show that Fr. Leander Roth said the first Mass that year. They provided the spiritual care for the next 22 years.

In the early 1900's, the Spanish Dominicans came to work in the Archdiocese of New Orleans and in 1912, Archbishop James Blenk assigned the Spanish Dominicans to Tangipahoa Parish and moved the Benedictines to St. Tammany Parish.

This was the beginning of the Dominican Order in Tangipahoa Parish. The Spanish Dominicans served the parish until 1938. According to a quote in Ginger Romero’s book: The Catholic Story in the Hammond Area, A Century of Action 1890 – 1990, the late Jack Bahm who was an active member of Holy Ghost Church said: “Spanish Dominicans were active until some immigration laws interfered with the movements of their priests and students. This forced them to sell their properties to the American Dominicans.”

On August 1, 1938, Fr. Vitalis Feuyo, O.P., the last pastor to represent the Spanish Dominicans at Holy Ghost and Fr. Harry Burke, O.P, the first pastor to represent the American Dominicans, co-signed a “List of Immovable Property” and the transfer from the Spanish to the American Dominicans was complete.

Since that day, the American Dominicans have overseen the spiritual care for Holy Ghost in Hammond. The Dominicans were also placed at St. Joseph’s in Ponchatoula, Our Lady of Pompeii in Tickfaw, Mater Dolorosa in Independence, St. Helena in Amite, St. Dominick’s in Husser and later on as the priests and chaplains at St. Albert the Great on the Southeastern Louisiana University campus.

Today, only Holy Ghost and St. Albert the Great are manned by Dominican Priests. While they still live in a community, Fr. Robert Merced, O.P. is the Pastor; Fr. Cayet Mangiaracina, O.P. is the Associate Pastor; and Brother Mauricio Salazar, O.P. is the permanent deacon at Holy Ghost Parish. Fr. Mike O’Rourke, O.P. is the director and chaplain at St. Albert the Great.

Fr. Robert and Brother Maurcio are being assigned to a Dominican Parish in New Orleans and Fr. Cayet has been assigned to a parish in Memphis, Tennessee.

The other church parishes in Tangipahoa Parish have Diocesan Priests and Diocesan priests will be named to manage the spiritual care of Holy Ghost and St. Albert.

The reason for the departure can be found throughout other orders and dioceses in the United States. The number of priests who are retiring are more than the young men entering the priesthood.

“While we will certainly miss the Dominican presence and tradition at Holy Ghost, we are a thriving and growing church parish. We have seen our friends at St. Joseph, Our Lady of Pompeii, Mater Dolorosa and St. Helena go through the transition from Dominican to Diocesan Priests, and I’m confident our parish will continue to be a strong and vibrant faith community.”

Tangipahoa Economic Development Director Ginger Cangelosi embodies these traits.

“I understand economic development and I love Tangipahoa Parish,” said Cangelosi. “It’s easy to promote your home parish to attract commercial investment when you absolutely love where you live.  Tangipahoa has incredible attributes that extend far beyond our infrastructure and location.  It’s our people that are our greatest asset.”

Ginger Cangelosi brings an extensive business background to Tangipahoa Economic Development.

“I firmly believe: ‘All Roads Lead to Where You Are.’”

Ginger’s roadmap has provided the background, knowledge, and experience needed to sit at a boardroom table with Fortune 500 companies or sit at the dinner table of a locally owned, multi-generational business.  The goal is always the same.  Help them find their way to a YES.

Here’s her story. After graduating from Southeastern Louisiana University with a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Communication Management,

GINGER CANGELOSI

Creating A Better Future for ALL of Tangipahoa

Written by Nick Gagliano

The most successful Economic Development Directors have two common traits:

1. They are passionate about the people and communities they represent.

2. They have an intense desire to bring investment to their region by helping to create quality jobs for their citizens, support existing business and improve the quality of life for all.

Ginger spent over a decade working in the insurance industry. She worked as an adjuster and focused on investigative liability determination and settlement of bodily injury claims.

Post-Katrina, she left the insurance industry to work with her husband, Mike, in his business, Cangelosi Glassworks. It’s there she learned first-hand about the opportunities, achievements, and challenges of small business owners. She also experienced how small businesses can be positively or negatively influenced by economic development projects in the community.

Three years later, she started work at the Southeastern Louisiana University Small Business Development Center and was soon working one on one with small businesses helping create and direct their customized business continuity and emergency preparedness plans.

“Working at the SBDC allowed me to be involved with the SBA, Louisiana Economic Development, and other financial institutions and government programs used for financing and contracting and employment tax credits.”

Having a desire to collaborate with the community in other arenas, Ginger then moved to the Children’s Advocacy Center as the Director of Community Outreach for their eight offices serving ten parishes in southeast Louisiana. It was during this time that Ginger increased her knowledge of non-profit organization operations while making valuable contacts with businesses and government officials across the region.

In 2017, her roadmap led Ginger to her present position as Tangipahoa Economic Development Director. Under direct leadership of our Parish President Robby Miller, Ginger has been non-stop in her efforts to promote Tangipahoa Parish and attract additional industry investment resulting in good jobs, and a thriving economic landscape for existing Tangipahoa Parish businesses.

She has shared, “Economic Development has been a top priority for Parish President Robby Miller even before taking office. We are extremely fortunate to have a leader who supports and understands the positive effect smart growth and a vibrant economic development landscape has on families in our parish.”

Ginger firmly believes that with an active and successful economic development program, it is the citizens that will reap the most benefit. She says as more people and more quality companies move here and invest in Tangipahoa Parish, everyone wins.

“When we do it right, more money moves into our parish. Our roads improve, our schools improve and most importantly, our families benefit as they live, shop, work, and play here.

Cangelosi continues to credit the success of our current economy to the relationships that have been built and maintained by our previous economic development leaders and by our parish leadership.

Tangipahoa Parish Government and their commitment to making it “easy to do business here” has been recognized by regional, state, and national site selectors inquiring about Tangipahoa Parish on behalf of many businesses wishing to locate here or expand here.

Knowing all businesses are equally important in the role they play, Cangelosi acknowledges our existing businesses for their contributions and commitments to their employees and the community.

“We are definitely trending in the right direction and the future looks very bright for Tangipahoa Parish.”

Tangipahoa Economic Development continues to actively recruit distribution and logistics companies as well as advanced manufacturing companies. But, realizing the need for continued sales tax revenue for all the municipalities and the parish, Tangipahoa Economic Development has created a focus on recruiting and retaining retail, restaurants, and recreation businesses.

“Tangipahoa Parish has a number of advantages. Our intersecting interstates, the cross-country rail system, and our relationships with city governments and regional stakeholders are only part of the plan.  It’s also our partnerships and support of our public school system, as well as Southeastern Louisiana University and Northshore Technical Community College System, and our outstanding parish workforce development programs that make companies consider Tangipahoa Parish. We will continue to work hard to ensure our citizens succeed and prosper and we’re doing it through economic development.”

4th Saturday Cleanup Pledge

The fourth Saturday of every month in 2022 is “Love the Boot. Don’t Pollute Day.” Pledge to participate on a monthly basis and clean up your neighborhood. After each cleanup, please submit a Cleanup Pledge Report so we can track your progress. For more info and to register visit keeplouisianabeautiful.org/love-the-boot/

50 YEAR CLUB

Our

Local Pharmacists

with over 50 Years of Serving our Community –Sharing their stories.

Written by Nick Gagliano | Photos by Phillip Colwart

Today, it’s not uncommon to see three national chain drugstores, like CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid, across the street from each other.

Very few people know that fifty years ago in downtown Hammond there were four or five drug stores within a few blocks of each other, and all the other cities in the parish had at least two or three pharmacies in the area.

“Oh, that’s a fact,” said Paul Cucchiara at a recent gathering of retired and soon-to-be retired Tangipahoa pharmacists.

These pharmacists gathered at a recent lunch sponsored by Northshore Media Group to share their stories and renew friendships formed by a drive to serve our community through their pharmacies in Tangipahoa Parish. It was Mike Shirey who came up with the idea of the gathering and spearheaded the luncheon.

Mike Shirey: “My years serving the community as a pharmacist gave me a great appreciation for the other pharmacists in the area. Even though we worked at different drugstores, we never felt we were in competition. I think everyone felt they were playing their role in caring for our community. I also felt we should honor the registered pharmacists who are now retired or working less hours. This comradery was apparent as soon as

everyone walked in the door for our luncheon.”

Between the laughing and catching up, they were happy to share their stories of life behind the counter at their pharmacy.

Paul Cucchiara: “Many of our pharmacists lived above their pharmacy or very close by so they would be available 24 hours a day. It was very common to receive a call in the middle of the night or on the weekend to fill a prescription from a panicked parent or a policeman coming off his shift. The pharmacists always showed up without thinking twice. It was part of helping the community.”

Many times, the citizens saw their pharmacist as an extension of their medical team.

Paul Durnin: “It was more than putting pills in a bottle. We counseled our customers to the importance of taking their medication to helping their health improve. And it seemed we were always prepared for the unexpected. One day a customer burst in the pharmacy frantically screaming ‘my baby can’t

breathe.’

We started mouth to mouth while we took the baby and mom to the hospital where the baby fully recovered. That was a crazy day.”

Paul Durnin continued: “We had a parent bring a child to the pharmacy. She showed me a red streak the child had running from his foot to his knee. I told her to go immediately to the Emergency Room. A few weeks later the parent stopped by the pharmacy and told me if that child was not rushed to the hospital, the child would have died.”

Working in pharmacies in downtown areas, many saw crazy events.

Don Fellows: “I grew up in the pharmacy business. When I was nine years old, I was making home deliveries for Central Rexall Drugs. We were closing one night when we heard a number of gunshots on the street in front of the drugstore. It seems a group of men set out to assassinate a local dentist by the name of Dr. Newsome. Word was Dr. Newsome was caught by the husband of one of his lady friends. The husband and his brothers tarred and feathered Dr. Newsome. He sued the group and won his case. The same group was out for revenge, but the police were tipped off about the assassination plot and they were waiting for the group. Thirty-eight rounds were fired in downtown Hammond which added to the Bloody Tangipahoa myth.”

Paul Cucchiara: “Our pharmacies were also a place for social gathering. Almost all of them had the traditional soda fountains and ice cream. It’s where the teenagers hung out and parents brought their children. This was way before anyone had heard of Baskin Robbins.”

Not all the stories were as dangerous. Many focused on customer service.

Jimmy Williams: “I loved being a pharmacist. I retired after 34 years behind the counter only to go back to work after a six-month retirement. I enjoyed seeing my customers and I missed them. Today, I work at Lallie Kemp Hospital as a staff pharmacist.”

Then there’s the story of Bud Glasgow. While he was pouring a new parking lot in front of his pharmacy, Bud would bring prescriptions through the mud to his waiting customers. His customers relied on him, and he couldn’t close for the few days needed for the parking lot.

While the retired pharmacists laughed and enjoyed their lunch, there were two current pharmacists present to thank them for the groundwork they laid for the next generation of pharmacists in Tangipahoa Parish.

Both local pharmacists Ricky Mannino and Anthony Mercante currently serve on the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy, and they appreciate the hard work, commitment, and dedication of this now-retired group.

“Without a doubt, this generation of pharmacists set a high bar for professionalism and family care,” said Mercante. “Those of us who followed them have used them as an example of how to treat our customers like family.”

Mannino added: “It’s an honor to be here celebrating with them today. These guys have saved so many lives, but they did it humbly, professionally, and they earned the respect of the community they served.”

PAUL CUCCHIARA

Served — Hammond

1970 Northeast graduate

BUD GLASGOW

Served — Hammond

1969 Northeast graduate

MICHAEL MCCRORY

Served — Ponchatoula

1972 Northeast graduate

MICHAEL SHIREY

Served — All of Tangi

1972 Northeast graduate

PAUL DURNIN]

Served — Independence

1972 Northeast graduate

HERMAN BLANCHARD

Served — Hammond

1957 Loyola graduate

DON FELLOWS

Served — Hammond

1969 University of Mississippi

JIM WILLIAMS

Served — Amite

1972 Northeast graduate

BOB MIANO

Served — Hammond/Ponchatoula

1969 Northeast graduate

HAROLD FUSSELL

Served — Kentwood

1972 Northeast graduate

UNABLE TO ATTEND:

JOHN ORY

Served — Ponchatoula

PETER ARMATO

Served — Independence

BOARD MEMBERS:

ANTHONY MERCANTE

Serving — Ponchatoula

1990 Xavier graduate

RICKY MANNINO

Serving — Hammond

1979 Northeast graduate

• A comprehensive, holistic program directed by a Pulmonologist. This individualized plan is implemented by experienced, specially-trained professionals who evaluate and treat both acute and chronic conditions in medically complex patients.

• Continuous assessment of respiratory status with highly-trained Respiratory Therapists on site, 24/7, for all patients with an artificial airway for breathing.

• Weaning protocols that range from full ventilator settings for breathing through decannulation, with the goal of getting the patients back to their pre-hospitalization oxygen dependency.

• Physician rounding with the treatment team. With the patient and family, we set goals to wean per evidence-based standards, individualizing plans based on patient progress.

George C Lanaux, SR ca 1850, (Royal Globe Insurance)

George C Lanaux, JR ca 1900, (New Orleans Insurance Association) Gaston L Lanaux, ca 1920, (Royal Insurance Company)

Charles A Lanaux, ca 1950, (George S Kausler, LTD)

Left: Hynson Lanaux, ca 2020, North American Insurance Agency Center: Robert W Lanaux, ca 2020, North American Insurance Agency Right: Merrick Lanaux, ca 2020, North American Insurance Agency

FUNERAL HOMES & CREMATORY

HOLLY YOUNG

Funny Bunny

“Expert” is a word used so much in every aspect of our lives today that it has become almost meaningless, leading to skepticism rather than trust. A common definition is “a person who knows more and more about less and less, until he knows absolutely everything about nothing.”

When looking for a medical provider, is there a reliable indicator to decipher a true expert in a given field from one who simply calls oneself a specialist? The answer is called “board certification.” Contained within these two words are three to eight years of intense, full-time academic and clinical training beyond a four year M.D. or D.O. degree followed by days-long testing by an accredited national specialist board. The testing is comprehensive, from basic science at the molecular and cellular level to the complexities of clinical medicine and surgery.

Robert Benson, MD

American Board

Certified Dermatologist Dermatological Surgeon and Cosmetic Surgeon

“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

The great Michael Jordan left basketball to become a professional baseball player. Despite his athletic talent, work ethic, and desire, he stayed in the minor leagues because he could not master the sport at a major league level. Think of residency training as long years in the minor leagues as a doctor tries to master the finer points of a specialty. Board certification is making it to the “Big Leagues” as a proven master of a medical specialty. At Benson Dermatology and QnA Cosmetic Surgery, all of our providers are board certified because specialty training truly does matter!

Results by Aesthetic Management – Agnes

by Beals, MD – Agnes

Chefs Evening March 27, 2022

Treasures

TangI

FAVORITE THINGS 5 Megan Romano's

Megan Romano is a successful Tangipahoa small business owner. After coming to Tangi in ’02 to attend Southeastern, she met and married the love of her life, Chad Romano. After working with him for a brief time, Megan expanded their business to include what is Romano Promo which provides promotional products and branded apparel for businesses and organizations. She is often seen at events across the parish and is a huge champion for local Tangipahoa businesses. Aside from her husband, her business and her passion for supporting local, we were curious about her 5 Favorite Things…

Plan-Free Weekends

It’s simple, but rare. As a small business owner, it’s often hard to “be off work”. Megan has learned to appreciate the importance of self-care and appreciates a weekend with no plans.

Dogs

Megan is an animal lover and proud mom to 3 rescue dogsVinny (10) , Frankie (7), and   Stella (3). She makes it a point to pet and love on every dog she meets. They make life better.

Music

Although not gifted with any musical ability, Megan has a deep love for music and concerts. All music! She loves the nostalgia of music and its ability to change your mood. Music is medicine. It’s impossible to choose a favorite type, but some of the best music came from the 60’s & 70’s.

The Mountains

Megan grew up skiing Copper Mountain, and recently rekindled a love for Colorado. It’s where she’s most at peace. Megan and Chad make it a point to head West twice a year to unplug and recharge.

Local Cuisine

Megan appreciates living in an area with such diverse and amazing culinary talent and truly enjoys indulging in all that Tangi cuisine has to offer. “We have the best people and the best food!”

John Exnicios’

GATSBY GALA NIGHT

Written by Nick Gagliano | Photos by Cole Frechou

What started as a “thank you” party three years ago for clients, family, and friends has now turned into one of the most anticipated social events of the year in Tangipahoa Parish.

“I have a fantastic team who work closely with clients, and we are supported by amazing family and friends. So I wanted to have a spectacular party to celebrate,” said John Exnicios, owner of the Exnicios Group of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Preferred Realtors. “My party makes that statement each year.”

John’s first party was an art exhibition featuring Terrance Osborne followed the second year by a Mardi Gras Ball which showcased the talents of New Orlean’s Grammy-winning Rebirth Brass Band. This year’s party has topped them all with John’s 40th Birthday Great Gatsby-themed Gala sponsored by Fleur De Lis Title, Carrie Sanders with GMFS and 360 Home Inspection Services. The celebration included the popular Swinging G’s Jazz Band as

well as Lindy Hop dance performers that livened up the evening. Guests were greeted at the door by a beautiful “Trixy Minx Productions” performer who served a steady supply of champagne and set the stage for a memorable night.

“It was a blast. Everyone wore their finest 1920’s attire at this black tie event.”

Clients, family, and friends from Tangipahoa Parish, St. Tammany Parish, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans were treated to a fabulous night of outstanding food, drinks, and music while they danced the night away under the stars in a clear-top tent.

Just like John keeps his real estate business moving forward, he also wants each year’s party to top the previous year’s event. In fact, plans are underway for next spring’s social event of the year.

“I am honored to host such an anticipated event. Next year’s party will be even more spectacular.”

& HE ARD ARD

Continued on next page

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