Tangi Lifestyles June/July 2023

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TangiLifestyles.com

IT’S SUMMERTIME and keeping with years of tradition, our June/July issue of Tangi Lifestyles features the Tangipahoa Parish Chamber of Commerce’s Annie Award recipients! Also in this issue, we spotlight local business success stories, local economic development success, local high school success stories, local Father’s Day stories, and a really cool local kid making his mark on the sports world! We also debut Northshore Media Group’s new podcast division Northshore Podcasting! We have so many good things happening in our community! Thank you for reading and celebrating a sample of things around us in this wonderful place we call home.

Northshore Media Group will always use our platforms to repeat the importance of shopping locally. As we go out and enjoy activities this summer brings, please remember our local businesses. Summer can be slow for local businesses, and with the growth of giants like Amazon, it can be really easy 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!

Northshore Media Group

200 East Thomas St. Hammond, LA 70401 985.345.0060

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

Betsy O'Leary

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Erin Bolton

Debi Menasco

Rebecca Blossman-Ferran

Stephanie Miller

ADVERTISING

For advertising rates, call (985) 345-0060

info@tangilifestyles.com

CORRESPONDENCE

200 East Thomas St. Hammond LA 70401

Calendar submissions and “Seen and Heard”

pictures may be emailed to events@tangilifestyles.com

June/July 2023

Volume 17, Issue 3

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.

James Barras is owner/operator of Professional Heating & Air, a Hammond-based company serving customers in Tangipahoa, St. Tammany, and Livingston Parishes. You can trust their technicians to show up on time, ready to work, and to leave your home as clean as they found it. Learn more about Professional Heating & Air on page 8.

Cover photo by Johnny Chauvin

Photo by Riyen Helg

2023

JUNE

June 2

Life After 5 Concert Series

Ponchatoula

June 3

GnarFest

Hammond

June 10

Springfield Fireman’s Poker Run Springfield livingstontourism.com

June 12-16

ARTisTRY Summer Art Camp

Hammond Regional Arts Center 10 a.m. to Noon www.hammondarts.org

June 16-17

Juneteenth at TAAHM

Hammond

June 16-17

Tangipahoa Pro Rodeo

Amite

June 19-23

ARTisTRY Young Actors Camp

Hammond Regional Arts Center 10 a.m. to Noon

www.hammondarts.org

June 21

11:30 - 1 — TBD

Monthly Luncheon

Tangipahoa Professional Women's Organization tangipw.org

JULY

July 21

Amite River Christmas On The Bayou Poker Run Maurepas, LA livingstontourism.com

July 26

11:30 - 1 — TBD

Monthly Luncheon

Tangipahoa Professional Women's Organization 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 2 West Thomas St., 8 am-12 pm

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 am - 5 pm • Sat. 10 am - 5 pm

Keeping Tangipahoa Comfortable

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & AIR

Written by Betsy O'Leary | Photos by Johnny Chauvin

J a m e s B a r r a s i s o w n e r / o p e r a t o r o f

P r o f e s s i o n a l H e a t i n g & A i r , a H a m m o n d -

b a s e d c o m p a n y s e r v i n g c u s t o m e r s i n

T a n g i p a h o a , S t T a m m a n y , a n d L i v i n g s t o n

P a r i s h e s T h e N e w I b e r i a n a t i v e m o v e d t o

H a m m o n d a s a c h i l d a n d a t t e n d e d H a m m o n d

p u b l i c s c h o o l s H e g r a d u a t e d f r o m

H a m m o n d H i g h b e f o r e m o v i n g t o T e x a s

S o o n , B a r r a s r e t u r n e d t o L o u i s i a n a t o w o r k

w i t h t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s D e p a r t m e n t o f

A g r i c u l t u r e ( U S D A ) w h i l e l i v i n g i n M e t a i r i e

T h e r e , h e f i r s t m e t h i s f u t u r e w i f e t h r o u g h a w o r k c o n n e c t i o n S h e l i v e d i n H a m m o n d w i t h h e r p a r e n t s a n d w o r k e d a s a p h y s i c a l t h e r a p i s t a t E a s t J e f f e r s o n H o s p i t a l

T h e c o u p l e r e l o c a t e d t o P o n c h a t o u l a a f t e r B a r r a s l e f t t h e U S D A , a n d w o r k e d f o r a h e a t i n g a n d c o o l i n g c o m p a n y o u t o f N e w O r l e a n s W h i l e w o r k i n g t h e r e , h e a l s o o p e n e d a v e n d i n g m a c h i n e b u s i n e s s t o e n s u r e a s t e a d y r e v e n u e s t r e a m f o r h i s f a m i l y

The operation was initially small, and he operated out of his home with a couple of employees and three vans They erected the present building approximately eight years ago The company grew to its present size of 20 employees Barras assembled a carefully curated staff whom he could trust to enter clients’ homes to service their heating and cooling systems. They operate a fleet of professionally-wrapped vans that distinguish them from smaller operations. On-call staff allow Barras to offer 24-hour emergency service. Technicians work from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday at standard rates.

The company’s process for service calls and system maintenance is to examine the client’s entire heating and cooling system when they arrive on the initial service call This allows them to determine the root cause of the present problem and detect potential trouble that can occur later. The skilled technicians will detail any problems and note wear and tear on any system parts. This allows customers to plan for future service repairs. All receive detailed health reports on their heating and cooling system after the initial visit.

Professional Heating & Air goes above and beyond for clients by offering a money-back guarantee if they don’t “get it right ” Because of disruptions to the supply chain over the last few years, Barras now stocks his own equipment so they can complete turnaround service for their heating and air clientele.

Professional Heating & Air operates a two-tier Maintenance Club for customers. Both tiers offer semi-annual maintenance inspections and a “no breakdown guarantee” which states that if they come and perform maintenance on your system and it breaks down, they will credit you the cost of one maintenance visit back towards any repairs that may be necessary As an added bonus, Comfort Plus members also get a 5-year parts warranty on any service repairs

Professional Heating & Air continually strives to go above and beyond when it comes to caring for their customers, such as providing customers with window unit air conditioners to use while a job is being completed at no charge. They simply offer the service to keep their customers comfortable in the scorching summer heat

They set themselves apart from other HVAC companies by offering devoted customer service and providing the finest quality on each job You can trust their technicians to show up on time, ready to work, and to leave your home as clean as they found it. When you need it done right, call a Professional at 985467-0114 or visit airpro.me.

Podcasts have been growing in popularity over the past few years and are now all the rage, with no signs of losing luster! 41% of people in the USA tune into a podcast every month, and 28% do it weekly.

Podcasts can be engaging and powerful through storytelling and debates. The most popular subjects are news, comedy, and true crime. However, in addition to the most popular subjects, listeners can find the most varied content imaginable. The podcast spectrum is immense with everything from model airplane enthusiasts to gardening clubs from local civic organizations to national political forums. With the right topics and content, podcasts are the perfect way to engage loyal followers who have similar interests.

Northshore Media Group has been paying attention as podcasting has evolved, and after a couple years of research and discovery has launched a new podcast division: Northshore Podcasting. This new division provides the Northshore with a high-quality podcast service similar to those found in large metros such as New Orleans, Atlanta and DC. Northshore Podcasting offers individuals, businesses, and public agencies on the Northshore the facilities and equipment to produce professional podcasts with a variety of flexible options. The menu of options includes basic in-studio recording of high-quality raw audio, right up to full creation, production, and distribution of their custom podcast.

“There was a void on the Northshore for this increasingly popular service, so we filled it. Podcasting is so closely related to what we already do with our broadcast stations that this expansion was a nobrainer,” said General Manager Brian Shirey.

As family-owned Northshore Media Group transitions ownership from Wayne Dowdy to a trio of new owners, Brian Shirey, Eloise Cottrell and Charles Dowdy, they plan to continue to invest and expand to enhance services to the Northshore. In addition to their 12 radio properties which remain the backbone of the company, over the past few years they have expanded by adding multiple print publications, direct mail, and digital marketing. Podcasting is the latest expansion. Who knows what’s next!

“Listen to any of our radio stations or read one of our magazines and you’ll realize that we are all in when it comes to local content. It’s what sets us apart,” Shirey said. “Our podcasts will be the same. Sure, we can produce something for a national audience, but we’re excited to see what local ideas come forward.”

“Our focus is to produce radio and print products which are truly relevant to our local community,” Eloise Cottrell added. “We do that well, and it will remain the biggest part of our business. But many of the same principles we employ in our radio and magazines can be applied to the creation of a podcast. It is an excellent additional service to offer local businesses or individuals who are trying to stand out.”

Northshore Media Group recently launched Northshore Podcasting’s first dedicated studio in their Covington office which was designed by Niche Modern Home. Near-future plans call for at least two more podcast studios to be added at their Hammond location.

“We reached out to the guys at Niche Modern Home,” Charles Dowdy said. “We explained what we wanted and how we would use the space. Steve and Jeff were awesome. We can’t wait for others to see what they created for us.”

Northshore Podcasting offers a variety of options, from basic rental of that new space to a fully-produced podcast that includes guest sourcing, project management, production, audio hosting and promotion. This customized podcast approach will allow a variety of businesses and individuals to deliver engaging content consistently and easily.

Find out more about Northshore Podcasting at northshoremedia.net.

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 70 women who work in excellence and have a true servant’s heart for our community.

Annie Award honorees 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.

The 2023 honorees will be recognized at The Tangipahoa Chamber's Annie Awards luncheon on Friday, June 2, at the Southeastern Louisiana University Student Union Grand Ballroom.

Coach Kim Mulkey

Less than two years after Kim Mulkey returned to Louisiana to do good and be a positive figure in her home state as the head coach for the LSU Women’s Basketball team, the Hall-of-Famer Mulkey delivered the program’s first National Championship to Baton Rouge.

A native of Tickfaw, La., Mulkey came to Baton Rouge as the most accomplished head coaching hire in LSU history. She returned to Louisiana as a six-time national champion and nine-time Hall of Famer who is set for induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in May of 2021.

Mulkey, who also won an Olympic Gold Medal in 1984, is the only person in college basketball history – men’s or women’s – to win national championships as a head coach, assistant coach and a player. She’s one of just three coaches (Bobby Knight and Dean Smith) in college basketball history to win national titles as a player and a coach.

Submitted by Tangipahoa Chamber Annie Photos by Phillip Colwart

Annie Award's Guest Speaker

Brenna Barzenick

B r e n n a B a r z e n i c k i s a l o c a l b u s i n e s s o w n e r , P h y s i c a l T h e r a p i s t , a u t h o r , a n d e d u c a t o r . B r e n n a w o r k s a n d l i v e s i n h e r h o m e t o w n o f H a m m o n d a n d i s c o - f o u n d e r o f D o w n t o w n Y o g a S h e g r a d u a t e d f r o m L S U i n 1 9 9 4 a n d e a r n e d a D o c t o r a t e o f P h y s i c a l T h e r a p y i n 2 0 1 6 B r e n n a t a u g h t A n a t o m y a n d K i n e s i o l o g y a t S L U f o r 3 y e a r s I n 2 0 2 3 , B r e n n a d e v e l o p e d a c o u r s e f o r P h y s i c a l T h e r a p i s t s a n d O c c u p a t i o n a l T h e r a p i s t s t i t l e d , I nt e g r a t i n g Y o g a i n H e a l t h C a r e . T h e c o n t i n u i n g e d u c a t i o n c o u r s e h a s b e e n a p p r o v e d b y t h e g o v e r n i n g b o a r d s o f P T a n d O T i n L o u i s i a n a . I n a d d i t i o n t o h e r p r o f e s s i o n a l c a r e e r , B r e n n a i s a w r i t e r a n d a u t h o r o f t h e b o o k , T s u m o m m y ! R i d i n g t h e W a v e o f M o t h e r h o o d , a h u m o r o u s t a k e o n p a r e n t i n g . B r e n n a i s a c t i v e l y i n v o l v e d i n t h e c o m m u n i t y a t t h e s t a t e a n d l o c a l l e v e l S h e w a s r e c e n t l y a p p o i n t e d t o t h e B o a r d o f t h e La n d T r u s t f o r L o u i s i a n a a n d s p e a r h e a d e d Y o g a i n t h e S u n f l o w e r s , a L T L f u n d r a i s e r B r e n n a w o r k s c l o s e l y w i t h M a r y B i r d P e r k i n s C a n c e r C e n t e r f o r t h e i r a n n u a l f u n d r a i s e r , G e a u x Y o g a B r e n n a h a s b e e n m a r r i e d t o l o c a l b u s i n e s s m a n , J a y B a r z e n i c k , f o r 2 5 y e a r s , a n d t h e y h a v e t w o w o n d e r f u l c h i l d r e n , D r e w ( 2 2 ) a n d J a y ( 1 8 )

B r e n n a s t r o n g l y b e l i e v e s i n t h e p o w e r o f g i v i n g , p a r t i c u l a r l y i n o u r o w n c o m m u n i t i e s w h e r e w e c a n h a v e a d i r e c t i m p a c t .

O n e o f h e r f a v o r i t e s e r v i c e q u o t e s :

“ T e n d t o t h e g a r d e n w h e r e y o u c a n r e a c h ”

- S h a r o n S a l z b e r g

Denise Tullier Holly

D e n i s e T u l l i e r - H o l l y i s a n a c c o m p l i s h e d a r t i s t , a r t e d u c a t o r , a s w e l l a s a p a t r o n o f t h e A r t s . S h e h a s l i v e d i n d o w n t o w n H a m m o n d s i n c e h e r a r r i v a l w i t h h u s b a n d , M i c h a e l H o l l y , a r c h i t e c t , i n 1 9 7 7 . E a r l y i n h e r t i m e h e r e , s h e b e g a n a r e c y c l i n g p r o g r a m b y f o r m i n g R O A R , R e c y c l e O u r A v a i l a b l e R e s o u r c e s .

S h e i s a 1 9 7 5 g r a d u a t e i n f i n e a r t s f r o m t h e U n i v e r s i t y o f M a r y l a n d a n d h a s a M a s t e r s i n E d u c a t i o n f r o m S LU , 2 0 0 1 F o r 2 5 y e a r s , D e n i s e w a s t h e a r t e d u c a t o r a t t h e S L U

L a b o r a t o r y S c h o o l S h e t a u g h t A r t E d u c a t i o n a t

L S U , B R . I n 2 0 0 7 , t h e N a t i o n a l A r t E d u c a t i o n A s s o c i a t i o n n a m e d D e n i s e , t h e N a t i o n a l E l e m e n t a r y A r t E d u c a t o r o f t h e Y e a r i n N Y C

T h r o u g h h e r t r a v e l s t o R o m a n i a , C a m b o d i a ,

F r a n c e , C u b a , a n d m o r e , D e n i s e s h a r e d v i r t u a l f i e l d t r i p s w i t h h e r s t u d e n t s . T h e y r e s p o n d e d w i t h t h e i r o w n c r e a t i o n s S h e b e l i e v e s t h a t t h i s e x p o s u r e b r o a d e n s s t u d e n t p e r s p e c t i v e , b u i l d s e m p a t h y a n d a p p r e c i a t i o n f o r d i v e r s i t y H e r f a v o r i t e c h i l d r e n ’ s b o o k , W h o e v e r Y o u A r e , b y M e m F o x , i l l u s t r a t e d b y

L e s l i e S t a u b e x p r e s s e s t h i s s a m e s e n t i m e n t I t b e g i n s : “ L i t t l e o n e , w h o e v e r y o u a r e , w h e r e v e r y o u a r e , t h e r e a r e l i t t l e o n e s j u s t

l i k e y o u a l l o v e r t h e w o r l d ” I n t h e a r t r o o m ,

“ B e k i n d t o a l l ” w a s a l w a y s o n d i s p l a y .

D e n i s e i s a f o u n d e r a n d l i f e t i m e b o a r d

m e m b e r o f t h e H a m m o n d R e g i o n a l A r t s

C e n t e r a n d t o d a y s e r v e s o n t h e G a l l e r y

c o m m i t t e e . S h e ’ s n o w w o r k i n g o n N o r t h s h o r e

A r t s i n B l o o m b r i n g i n g f l o r a l d e s i g n a n d

a r t t o g e t h e r i n D o w n t o w n H a m m o n d .

Patricia Hebert Landaiche

P a t r i c i a ( T r i c i a ) H e b e r t L a n d a i c h e i s a 3 5 - y e a r v e t e r a n e d u c a t o r w h o h a s d e d i c a t e d h e r l a s t 2 8 y e a r s a t

P o n c h a t o u l a H i g h S c h o o l s e r v i n g 2 6 y e a r s a s a S p e c i a l

E d u c a t i o n t e a c h e r .

A f t e r g r a d u a t i n g f r o m S o u t h e a s t e r n L o u i s i a n a U n i v e r s i t y i n

1 9 8 8 , T r i c i a l a n d e d i n P o n c h a t o u l a t o s e r v e t h e c o m m u n i t y

t h a t h a d s h a p e d h e r c h i l d h o o d B e c a u s e h e r b a c k g r o u n d w a s

c e n t e r e d i n g i v i n g t o o t h e r s a n d a t h l e t i c s , T r i c i a ’ s he a r t d e s i r e d t o p r o v i d e f o r t h e s p e c i a l n e e d s a n d a t h l e t i c c o m m u n i t i e s o f P o n c h a t o u l a T r i c i a h a s u s e d h e r o w n

e x p e r i e n c e s t o b e c o m e a b e a c o n o f l i g h t f o r o t h e r s I n 2 0 0 6 , s h e s t a r t e d t h e B r i t t a n y L a n d a i c h e M e m o r i a l F o u n d a t i o n i n m e m o r y o f h e r d a u g h t e r T h e f o u n d a t i o n r a i s e s m o n e y t o p r o v i d e g r a d u a t i n g s e n i o r s o f P o n c h a t o u l a H i g h S c h o o l w i t h f i n a n c i a l s c h o l a r s h i p s t o f u r t h e r t h e i r e d u c a t i o n

A s a v o l u n t e er f o r A A U B a s k e t b a l l , S t . J o s e p h C a t h o l i c S c h o o l b a s k e t b a l l p r o g r a m , a n d P o n c h a t o u l a Y o u t h B a s k e t b a l l ,

B a s e b a l l , & S o f t b a l l , T r i c i a h a s t o u c h e d t h e l i v e s o f m a n y a s p i r i n g a t h l e t e s i n h e r c o m m u n i t y . A s a l e a d e r a t P o n c h a t o u l a H i g h , T r i c i a i s a c t i v e l y i n v o l v e d i n t h e S p e c i a l O l y m p i c s f o r t h e s t u d e n t s a t P H S S h e t e a c h e s s p e c i a l n e e d s c h i l d r e n o n c e a w e e k i n p h y s i c a l e d u c a t i o n t o p r o v i d e i n t e r a c t i o n w i t h h er c h a m p i o n s h i p c a l i b e r a t h l e t e s T h r o u g h h e r a c t i v e p a r t i c i p a t i o n i n t h i s w o r t h y p r o g r a m , s h e i s m o d e l i n g t o h e r h i g h s c h o o l s t u d e n t s h o w t o l o v e a n d c a r e f o r o t h e r s A d d i t i o n a l l y , T r i c i a h a s g u i d e d h e r t e a m t h r o u g h l o c a l v o l u n t e e r o p p o r t u n i t i e s i n c l u d i n g t h e T a n g i p a h o a

P a r i s h L i t e r a c y I n i t i a t i v e , t h e T r i n i t y B a p t i s t C h u r c h ’ s

s p e c i a l n e e d s c a m p 4 H i s K i d s a n d t h e L o u i s i a n a S p e c i a l O l y m p i c s A s a t w o t i me S t a t e C h a m p i o n s h i p G i r l s B a s k e t b a l l

C o a c h , s h e a l s o r e s e r v e s s p o t s o n h e r t e a m f o r s t u d e n t s w i t h s p e c i a l n e e d s t o b e c o m e m a n a g e r s

T r i c i a i s c u r r e n t l y a t e a c h e r a n d t h e L a d y W a v e B a s k e t b a l l c o a c h a t P o n c h a t o u l a H i g h S h e h a s b e e n s e l e c t e d a s D i s t r i c t

6 - 5 A C o a c h o f t h e y e a r e i g h t t i m e s a n d i n 2 0 1 5 , C l a s s 5 A

C o a c h o f t h e y e a r . T r i c i a w a s a l s o s e l e c t e d a s t h e h e a d

c o a c h o f t h e A l l - S t a r g a m e f o r t h e E a s t i n 2 0 2 1 S h e i s a

m e m b e r o f t h e L o u i s i a n a H i g h S c h o o l B a s k e t b a l l C o a c h e s

A s s o c i a t i o n a n d h a s s e r v e d o n t h e P o n c h a t o u l a A r e a

R e c r e a t i o n a l D e p a r t m e n t B o a r d s i n c e A p r i l o f 2 0 2 1

Donna Distefano Miller

F o r D o n n a M i l l e r , a s u c c e s s f u l b u s i n e s s h i n g e s o n o n e g o a l : s e r v i n g o t h e r s T h e o w n e r o f f o u r P J ’ s C o f f e e s h o p s i n T a n g i p a h o a P a r i s h , D o n n a M i l l e r s t r i v e s f o r t h e h i g h e s t q u a l i t y o f c u s t o m e r s e r v i c e , a n d i t ’ s a p a s s i o n s h e i n s t i l l s i n h e r t e a m t h e y o u n g p e o p l e s h e r e f e r s t o l o v i n g l y a s “ h e r k i d s . ” H e r d e d i c a t i o n t o t r e a t i n g e v e r y o n e l i k e f a m i l y e m p l o y e e s a n d c u s t o m e r s a l i k e h a s w o n h e r a c c o l a d e s S h e w en t f r o m R o o k i e o f t h e Y e a r t o B r a n d A m b a s s a d o r f o r t w o w h o l e y e a r s , a n d s h e h o l d s m u l t i p l e a w a r d s f o r s u c c e s s f u l l y t a k i n g P J ’ s o f H a m m o n d t o t h e # 3 s p o t i n t h e c h a i n O f c o u r s e , t h e a w a r d t h a t s h e s a y s m a k e s h e r m o s t p r o u d i s b e i n g r e p e a t e d l y v o t e d “ T a n g i ’ s B e s t ” b y t h e p e o p l e o f o u r c o m m u n i t y

D o n n a ’ s p a s s i o n f o r s e r v i c e e x t e n d s f a r b e y o n d t h e w a l l s o f h e r b u s i n e s s S h e h a s b e e n a c h a m p i o n f o r a n u m b e r o f l o c a l n o n - p r o f i t s , f r o m T A R C t o O P T I O N S , R e s t o r a t i o n H o u s e , t h e R i c h a r d M u r p h y H o s p i c e H o u s e , O u r D a i l y B r e a d , a n d s o m a n y o t h e r s . S h e v o l u n t e e r s w i t h t h e O u r L a d y o f

H o p e R e t r e a t C e n t e r , a n d s h e r e c e n t l y j o i n e d t h e G i a n n a N e l l B o n f i g l i o F o u n d a t i o n , f o c u s e d o n b a b i e s b o r n p r e m a t u r e l y a n d t h e i r f a m i l i e s D o n n a i s a p a s t - p r e s i d e n t a n d l o n g t i m e b o a r d m e m b e r o f t h e L o u i s i a n a C h i l d r e n ’ s

D i s c o v e r y C e n t e r , an d s h e h e l p e d w i t h t h e s u m m e r f e e d i n g p r o g r a m f o r T a n g i p a h o a s c h o o l c h i l d r e n A s o u r p a r i s h ’ s

F i r s t L a d y , D o n n a s p e a r h e a d e d a n e f f o r t t o r e d u c e t r a f f i c a c c i d e n t s w i t h i n e x p e r i e n c e d d r i v e r s S i n c e i t s i n c e p t i o n , t h e “ S t o p t h e K n o c k ” c a m p a i g n r e s u l t e d a g r a n t f o r a d d i t i o n a l t r a f f i c b e a c o n s o n T a n g i r o a d w a y s a n d a a s i g n i f i c a n t d e c r e a s e i n t h e n u m b e r o f d e a d l y a c c i d e n t s i n v o l v i n g y o u t h i n o u r p a r i s h

D o n n a i s a T a n g i p a h o a P a r i s h n a t i v e . S h e i s m a r r i e d t o h e r c o l l e g e s w e e t h e a r t , o u r P a r i s h P r e s i d e n t R o b b y M i l l e r T h e y a r e t h e p a r e n t s o f f o u r a d u l t c h i l d r e n , a n d t h e M i l l e r s a r e e a g e r l y a w a i t i n g t h e a r r i v a l o f t h e i r f i r s t g r a n d c h i l d l a t e r t h i s y e a r D o n n a a n d h e r f a m i l y a r e m e m b e r s o f H o l y G h o s t

C a t h o l i c C h u r c h , w h e r e s h e i s a m e m b e r o f t h e R o s a r y A l t a r

S o c i e t y a n d h a s h e l p e d t e a c h V a c a t i o n B i b l e S c h o o l a n d

Pa r i s h S c h o o l o f R e l i g i o n c l a s s e s .

“ D o s m a l l t h i n g s w i t h g r e a t l o v e a n d s t a r t w i t h i n y o u r o w n f a m i l y ” M o t h e r T h e r e s a

Sarah Mitchell

S a r a h E . M i t c h e l l , a l i f e l o n g T a n g i p a h o a P a r i s h r e s i d e n t , b e l i e v e s t h a t c o m m u n i t i e s a r e s t r e n g t h e n e d w h e n w e h e l p e a c h o t h e r r e a c h o u r f u l l p o t e n t i a l . T h i s w a s i n s t i l l e d i n S a r a h f r o m a n e a r l y a g e b y h e r l a t e p a r e n t s , M a c a n d S a r a h M i t c h e l l o f P o n c h a t o u l a , a n d c o n s i s t e n t l y e v i d e n t i n h e r e f f o r t s t o a d v o c a t e f o r t h e q u a l i t y o f l i f e o f o t h e r s a n d t h e c o m m u n i t y - a t - l a r g e .

A 2 5 - y e a r e m p l o y e e o f N o r t h O a k s H e a lt h S y s t e m , S a r a h b e g a n h e r c a r e e r a s a p h y s i c a l t h e r a p i s t S h e h a s r i s e n t h r o u g h t h e r a n k s t o

b e c o m e s u r g i c a l s e r v i c e l i n e v i c e p r e s i d e n t w h i l e s u s t a i n i n g c o m m i t m e n t s t o n u m e r o u s p h i l a n t h r o p i c e n d e a v o r s n e a r a n d d e a r t o h e r

C u r r e n t l y , s h e i s a c t i v e l y e n g a g e d i n s e r v i c e t o

O p t i o n s , I n c . , t h e L o u i s i a n a c h a p t e r o f t h e

A m e r i c a n C o l l e g e o f H e a l t h C a r e E x e c u t i v e s a n d

P o n c h a t o u l a R o t a r y C l u b T h r o u g h h e r

l e a d e r sh i p a n d i n v o l v e m e n t , s h e a l s o h a s

c o n t r i b u t e d t o i n i t i a t i v e s o f t h e A m e r i c a n C a n c e r

S o c i e t y ’ s S o u t h T a n g i p a h o a C h a p t e r , L o u i s i a n a

P h y s i c a l T h e r a p y A s s o c i a t i o n , t h e R i c h a r d

M u r p h y H o s p i c e F o u n d a t i o n a n d J u n i o r A u x i l i a r y

o f T a n g i p a h o a

A d d i t i o n a l l y , s h e w a s a l o n g t i m e m e n t o r f o r t h e

S o u t h e a s t e r n L o u i s i a n a U n i v e r s i t y L a d y L i o n s

b a s k e t b a l l t e a m a n d a l i f e t i m e

m e m b e r o f t h e F i r s t U n i t e d M e t h o d i s t

C h u r c h i n P o nc h a t o u l a

A L i b e r a l A r t s g r a d u a t e o f M i s s i s s i p p i S t a t e

U n i v e r s i t y i n S t a r k v i l l e , S a r a h w e n t o n t o

a c h i e v e M a s t e r ’ s d e g r e e s i n M a s s

C o m m u n i c a t i o n s f r o m L o u i s i a n a S t a t e U n i v e r s i t y

(

L S U ) i n B a t o n R o u g e a n d P h y s i c a l T h e r a p y f r o m

L S U ’ s S c h o o l o f A l l i e d H e a l t h P r o f e s s i o n s i n N e w

O r l e a n s . S h e a l s o i s a 2 0 2 0 g r a d u a t e o f

L e a d e r s h i p T a n g i p a h o a

F o r S a r a h , s u c c e s s i s d i r e c t l y r e l a t e d t o w h a t a

p e r s o n g i v e s b a c k t o t h e w o r l d

Jessica Shirey

B o r n a n d r a i s e d i n H a m m o n d , J e s s i c a S h i r e y i s a c o m m u n i t y - m i n d e d a n d d r i v e n b u s i n e s s w o m a n . S h e i s a p r o u d a l u m n a o f H a m m o n d H i g h S c h o o l , S o u t h e a s t e r n L o u i s i a n a U n i v e r s i t y a n d L o u i s i a n a S t a t e U n i v e r s i t y S c h o o l o f D e n t i s t r y I n 2 0 1 5 , J e s s i c a s t e p p e d a w a y f r o m p r a c t i c e a s a d e n t a l h y g i e n i s t t o j o i n f o r c e s w i t h h e r d y n a m i c h u s b a n d , N o l a n d S t e w a r t , t o g r o w t h e i r b u s i n e s s i n D o w n t o w n H a m m o n d . F o r 8 y e a r s J e s si c a h a s s e r v e d a s a c o m m i s s i o n e r f o r t h e H a m m o n d H i s t o r i c D i s t r i c t . S h e h a s p e r s o n a l l y h e l p e d w i t h t h e p r e s e r v a t i o n a n d r e v i t a l i z a t i o n o f t h e d i s t r i c t b y p u r c h a s i n g a n d r e n o v a t i n g a h i s t o r i c b u i l d i n g i n t h e d i s t r i c t w h i c h h o u s e s t h e i r b u s i n e s s , N o l a n d S t e w a r t S a l o n

S h e d e v o t e s h e r s e l f t i r e l e s s l y t o v a r i o u s c o m m u n i t y , b u s i n e s s , a n d c h a r i t y o r g a n i z a t i o n s . F o r t h e l a s t 7 y e a r s s h e h a s b e e n a k e y o r g a n i z in g m e m b e r o f t h e H a m m o n d S m o k i n ’ B B Q C h a l l e n g e w h i c h r a i s e s f u n d s f o r m a n y l o c a l c h a r i t i e s J e s s i c a s e r v e d o n t h e b o a r d o f d i r e c t o r s f o r t h e T a n g i p a h o a C h a m b e r o f

C o m m e r c e , d u r i n g w h i c h t i m e s h e w a s n a m e d B o a r d

M e m b e r o f t h e Y e a r f o r 2 0 1 9 a n d a l s o r e c e i v e d t h e d i s t i n g u i s h e d F r a n c e s C h a u v i n V o l u n t e e r o f t h e Y e a r

a w a r d i n 2 0 2 0 A s a g r a d u a t e o f L e a d e r s h i p

T a n g i p a h o a C l a s s o f 2 0 2 2 , J e s s i c a s t a y s i n t o u c h

w i t h t h e e c o n o m i c , c u l t u r a l a n d s e r v i c e n e e d s a n d i m p a c t s o f o u r c o m m u n i t y H e r l a t e s t , a n d m o s t

r e w a r d i n g , e n d e a v o r i s a s a C o u r t A p p o i n t e d S p e c i a l

A d v o c a t e ( C A S A ) t o s e r v e a s a v o i c e f o r c h i l d r e n i n n e e d o f c a r e i n o u r c o m m u n i t y

T h e a c h i e v e m e n t J e s s i c a i s m o s t p r o u d o f a r e h e r

c h i l d r e n . H e r s o n , D a n i e l , i s a n a c t i v e s a i l o r i n t h e

U n i t e d S t a t e s N a v y a n d h e r d a u g h t e r , C a l l i e , i s a n u p - a n d - c o m i n g c o s m e t o l o gi s t S h e i s a l s o a l o v i n g

s t e p m o t h e r t o E m m a , a n d h e r “ b o n u s s o n ” A u s t i n

W h e n J e s s i c a i s n ’ t b u s y s e r v i n g h e r c o m m u n i t y , s h e

e n j o y s s p e n d i n g t i m e w i t h f a m i l y , t r a v e l i n g , a n d o f c o u r s e , c o o k i n g

THE EARLY YEARS

“ A f t e r l e a v i n g M e x i c o , I w o r k e d i n

c o n s t r u c t i o n f o r a n u m b e r o f y e a r s

b e f o r e s t a r t i n g m y r e s t a u r a n t

c a r e e r i n M i l t o n , F l o r i d a a t a

M e x i c a n r e s t a u r a n t I s t a r t e d a t t h e

b o t t o m , w o r k e d m y w a y u p t o a

m a n a g e m e n t p o s i t i o n a n d k e p t

s a v i n g m y m o n e y t o b e a b l e t o

o p e n m y o w n r e s t a u r a n t ”

For 25 Years!

p p p p 25th Anniversary in September. 25th Anniversary in September.

FINDING HAMMOND

“ I w a s t r a v e l i n g f r o m F l o r i d a t o T e x a s a n d h e a r d a b o u t H a m m o n d . O n m y w a y t o T e x a s , I g o t o f f t h e i n t e r s t a t e a n d m a d e i t o n l y t o w h e r e t h e S o n i c R e s t a u r a n t i s t o d a y . I t h o u g h t … W h e r e a r e t h e p e o p l e a n d t h e b u s i n e s s e s ? I l e f t , b u t o n t h e r e t u r n t r i p , I g o t o f f a t t h e s a m e e x i t a n d d r o v e t o d o w n t o w n H a m m o n d . T h a t ’ s w h e n I t h o u g h t t h e r e m a y b e p o t e n t i a l I s t o p p e d a t t h e C h a m b e r o f C o m m e r c e o f f i c e i n H a m m o n d a n d s p o k e t o E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r J a m e n e D a h m e r S h e c o n t a c t e d M r . J o h n W o n g a n d t h a t ' s h o w I g o t s t a r t e d i n H a m m o n d ”

WORKING WITH MR. JOHN WONG

“ M r J o h n W o n g h a s b e e n a g o o d f r i e n d a n d w a s a l w a y s r e a d y t o g i v e m e s u g g e s t i o n s a n d a d v i c e H e o w n e d t h e b u i l d i n g w h e r e w e s t a r t e d a n d I w a s f o r t u n a t e t o b u y i t f r o m h i m y e a r s a g o . T h e W o n g f a m i l y i s a l o c a l t r e a s u r e , a n d p a r t o f m y s u c c e s s , I k n o w , c o m e s f r o m o u r a s s o c i a t i o n ”

STARTING OUT

“ W e w e r e t h e f i r s t r e s t a u r a n t t o o f f e r o u t d o o r s e a t i n g i n d o w n t o w n H a m m o n d I r e m e m b e r N i c k y M u s c a r e l l o , S r , T o n y L i c c i a r d i , a n d B r u c e O ’ K r e p k i w o u l d s t o p b y a n d a s k m e t o b r i n g s o m e t a b l e s o u t s i d e f o r t h e m t o e a t O t h e r p e o p l e s a w i t , a n d i t c a u g h t o n . N o w , o u t d o o r s e a t i n g i s a m a j o r p a r t o f a l l o f o u r r e s t a u r a n t s ”

A LEGACY BEYOND HAMMOND

“ W h i l e w e s t a r t e d i n H a m m o n d , L a C a r r e t a i s k n o w n t h r o u g h o u t s o u t h e a s t L o u i s i a n a w i t h t w e l v e l o c a t i o n s . E a c h o f m y m a n a g i n g p a r t n e r s s t a r t e d i n o u r H a m m o n d r e s t a u r a n t , a n d I a m p r o u d t o h a v e h e l p e d t h e m b e c o m e s u c c e s s f u l ”

Managing owner Ashley Radcliffe Gilless started at La Carreta in Hammond, and she has been in Ponchatoula since Day 1.

“La Carreta is like a family to me I am able to make decisions for staffing, events, and interior designs with the full support of Saul Rubio. As an artist, he even allowed me to use my talent for many of the interior artwork in the restaurant. It has been a great 10 years, and I’m looking forward to many more.”

HARD WORK PAYS OFF

“

I a m v e r y f o r t u n a t e , a n d I a m a l w a y s w i l l i n g t o h e l p o t h e r s a n d s h a r e a d v i c e I h a d a g o a l a n d w o r k e d h a r d t o m a k e t h a t g o a l a r e a l i t y T h e r e s t a u r a n t b u s i n e s s i s h a r d , a n d i t t a k e s w o r k B u t i f y o u a r e w i l l i n g t o w o r k h a r d , b e s m a r t a n d t a k e c a r e o f y o u r s t a f f a n d g u e s t s , y o u w i l l h a v e a r e c i p e f o r s u c c e s s ”

“ I a m v e r y u p b e a t a b o u t o u r f u t u r e I l o v e H a m m o n d a n d h a v e m a d e i t m y h o m e I l o v e o u r g u e s t s a n d o u r s t a f f W e w i l l c o n t i n u e t o p r o v i d e g r e a t s e r v i c e , o u t s t a n d i n g f o o d , a n d d e l i c i o u s d r i n k s

H e r e ’ s t o 2 5 y e a r s i n H a m m o n d ”

TANGIPAHOA PARISH LIBRARY PRESENTS THE

Tangipahoa Parish Library is bringing our community together for a summer of fun activities! Enjoy weekly programs for all ages, while reading to reach your goals and earn prizes. Visit www.tangilibrary.com for a complete program listing.

Sign up for the Read-to-Me, Children, Teen or Adult Summer Reading Program. There’s a program for everyone!

Special performerS ALL PROGRAMS ARE FREE TO THE PUBLIC

ANIMAL TALES MAY 30– JUNE 1

Enjoy a live animal show with Animal Tales! Get up close and personal with animals from all over the world in this interactive, educational event.

MISS KIM’S PETTING ZOO SATURDAYS ALL SUMMER

Join us for a fun morning of petting goats, sheep, llama, rabbits, mini donkey, mini pony and other farm animals.

THE POPROCKS JUNE 6–8

This pop/rock guitar duo uses storytelling, comedy and audience interaction to celebrate the joy of music and friendship! Get ready to sing, dance and ROCK!

THE TMM PROJECT JUNE 13–15

(The True Mission Matters Project) This interactive program features step-dancing, street dance, a live saxophonist and drums. Showcasing the positive impact of coming together to work hard to accomplish goals while teaching fun dance moves.

Tra ck your minu TeS!

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

WINK DANENBERG JUNE 20–22

Standing at 6 foot 4, Wink Danenberg’s comedy, juggling and uni-cycling keep audiences entertained and enthralled with high energy and raw antics!

WOW O’CLOCK JUNE 27–29

We are all INside this Together — Come on an adventure with Professor Universe through the human body, with wacky, scientific performances and storytelling.

CREATIVE ARTS OF ST. TAMMANY JULY 11–13

Theater with Ms. Jen offers the ORIGINAL Cajun Shakespeare for kids, Fairytales and Fables, the Imaginationeer’s I CAN show, the Magic If shows, and more!

X-TREME TALENT JULY 18–20

Tim Spinosa, an internationally-acclaimed inventor and performer, fills his magic show with family-friendly comedy and hilarious audience participation!

Sign up for the Summer Reading Program at any library branch or online at www .TangiLibrar y. com

S T I C K E R

for Sheriff

From a very young age, Gerald Sticker knew he would build a career in public service After graduating from Ponchatoula High School in 1986, he enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserves, serving for six years that included a 12-month deployment to the Middle East during Operation Desert Storm.

“War isn’t all about excitement and heroism like you see in the movies, but sometimes it’s necessary,” Sticker says about that time in his life. “I was honored to serve our country and to represent the brave character of Louisiana, and I made lasting friendships while building my own leadership skills.”

When he was honorably discharged from the USMC, Gerald knew that he wasn’t done serving .

Photos by Riyen Helg

In 1992, he started as a Reserve Police Officer in Mandeville, just a few miles east of where he grew up here in Tangipahoa Parish. For three years, he volunteered his time in service to the people of Mandeville, while working as a welder to make a living In 1995, he became a full-time officer at the Mandeville Police Department.

“Some might think of Mandeville as a small, safe town, and in some ways it is,” Sticker says. “But Mandeville is also the gateway to the Northshore, and it doesn’t stay safe by accident. The Causeway ends there, and if that Police Department isn’t vigilant, crime seeps in and spreads.”

During his career with MPD, Sticker advanced and excelled, being named Chief of Police in 2016 He retired five years later and returned to Tangipahoa, living in Hammond with his wife, Tonia

Last year, Sticker felt called to run for Tangipahoa Sheriff, seeking to replace long-time Sheriff Daniel Edwards, who is retiring next year

“Sheriff Edwards has done a good job for many years, and I’d be very honored to continue improving public safety in my home parish,” Sticker says. “I’ve been working hard, meeting folks all over Tangipahoa, and feeling great momentum I keep hearing that people want change, and I have to say, I’m the only announced candidate who doesn’t come from inside the Sheriff’s Office ”

Some naysayers have said Sticker is too much of an “outsider” to win the election or lead the agency, but Sticker knows that’s not true

“Some people talk about Mandeville like it’s the other side of the world,” Sticker said “It’s only 15 miles from our parish line, and we all know crime doesn’t respect those boundaries. I’ve been across the globe to fight for freedom, but I’ve spent my law enforcement career keeping people safe right here in southeast Louisiana Tangipahoa Parish has always been home, and I’m going to spend the rest of my days here finding ways to serve our community.”

“We worked very hard in Mandeville. Through incredible population growth, we managed to keep the crime rate very low,” Sticker says. “We had our share of challenges, for sure, but we rose to meet them as a team.”

Paid for by the committee to elect Gerald Sticker.

Slidell | Hammond | Mandeville | Metairie

Father's Day Father's Day

Father's Day is June 18th. Father's Day is June 18th.

In celebration some community members have shared In celebration some community members have shared their favorite thing they have done with their Dad. their favorite thing they have done with their Dad.

My favorite thing to do with my daddy is rodeo! He helps me in and out of the arena on a daily basis, and I wouldn’t have it any other way! Happy Father’s Day, Daddy! — Marley

Wildey

"We share a love of architecture, design and theatre. We‘re the two in the family that enjoy watching the Saints and can chat with one another for hours." —

Lizzie Nichols

"One of my favorite things to do with my dad is to watch movies with him. Another thing I like to do with him is talk about books we have both read since we have similar interests. I love hanging out with my dad even though I don’t get to do it often. I love him very much and wish him a Happy Father’s Day! " — Joleigh

O’Neil

"We love it when our Dad takes us fishing. We also love to play fight and go on bike rides with him. He’s the best! "

— Stevie & Maxine Caramonta

Dad loves SLU baseball, so enjoying games at the park was always a favorite growing up. Today, we enjoy summer days by the pool and family vacations watching our kids make memories with their pawpaw! We also have a blast making our Italian cookies, which is carrying on his mother's (our grandma Lena) tradition.

— Amber Babin & Andrea Dunn

My favorite core memories of my dad used to consist of him cheering me on at my basketball games, with my shorts pulled up so high you could barely see my number! Now, my favorites are seeing him be an amazing grandfather to my three kids. Their bond sure is special. Happy Father's Day! — Dayne Gill-Commander

"I love working with my dad everyday. He has taught me so much plus I get to spend time with him. My dad raised lots of things. A fool wasn't one of them." — Charlie

Ciolino

We went fishing at our camp every summer and that was great. But the most memorable was when he took me to Las Vegas to see Elvis for my graduation. — Johnny Chauvin

"My favorite time spent with my dad is working cows and going to rodeos. Happy Father’s Day!" — Mylee Howes

"Love enjoying bourbon and the Derby with my dad." — Amanda Adams

Batter up!

Written by Betsy O’Leary

Lathan is the son of Hammond residents Joshua and Kristin Williams. The 8-year-old will start third grade at Hammond Eastside next fall. But he doesn’t just love to play the game like most of his peers. Lathan is a seasoned umpire, as well as a football and basketball referee, having officiated more than 100 games.

He first called a game at age 5 after dressing up as a referee that Halloween. Then, he asked Santa for some umpire gear for Christmas. The Big Guy delivered, and soon the 5-year-old was on his way to an early career as a sports official.

How He Got His Early Start

As his father, Josh, tells it, “He just shows up.” It all began with Lathan standing outside the Hammond America Sportsplex watching a baseball game and the umpire calling it. Eventually, the umpire noticed the little boy watching intently while copying his every move. When he invited him onto the field, a legend was born.

Since that fateful day three years ago, Lathan cut his teeth officiating local games in Hammond at the Sportsplex, Chappapeela Sports Park, some Ponchatoula football games, and Ascension Parish Little League baseball games.

It’s baseball season, but don’t be surprised if the umpire on the field looks a little young. It might just be Lathan Williams, or #LathanTheKidUmpire, as he is known to his more than 600,000 social media followers.

Photos by Riyen Helg

World Record-Setter

On March 6, Lathan became the placeholder for the Guinness Book of World Records as the youngest umpire to officiate a baseball game. Lathan was the double-header umpire for the Ascension Parish ball team playing at Stevens Park in Gonzales.

Guiness record-keepers are still proving his claim of youngest umpire. Once his evidence is accepted, Lathan will move from placeholder to title owner in the Guiness Book of Records.

Just a Boy with Big Dreams

When asked about future plans, Lathan has lofty goals. He wants to go on to umpire MLB games and hopes that he can also referee NBA and NFL games. He’s off to a good start, having already attended the famous Harry Wendelstedt Umpire School near Daytona Beach, Florida. The umpire school has graduated more MLB umpires than any other school in the country.

Impressed by Lathan’s talent and drive, school officials already awarded him a full scholarship once he turns 18.

For now, Lathan enjoys his time on the sports fields officiating games whenever he can. He’s been on the field with the Savannah Bananas, a minor league exhibition team full of hijinks akin to the Harlem Globetrotters on the basketball court.

Lathan’s parents manage his social media presence on TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. The couple’s other son, Logan, also is a sports fan who has competed in sporting games throughout the south in both basketball and baseball. The family appreciates the support they’ve received from the local sporting community for Lathan’s endeavors.

Follow Lathan’s adventures by liking and subscribing to #LathanTheKidUmpire on all your favorite social media sites and at lathanthekidumpire.com.

CRYSTAL BONEY

Lead Pastor

The Mission Church

This year the Lord softly spoke the word “abide” to me. As I began to meditate and process on this word, in just a short time I realized this small word makes a massive impact. Abiding in Christ isn’t a feeling or a belief. It’s not an occasional visit or once in a while conversation, it has a continual hour by hour nature to it. It means to remain or stay. It’s a constant looking to Jesus through His word and entails far more than one may realize. The depths and riches of the love of Christ that can never be fully comprehended, can only begin to be grasped through our act of abiding.

I believe with my whole heart, God is longing for greater moments of intimacy with each of us. David said it best, “Earnestly I seek You; my soul thirsts for You, Lord.” May the Holy Spirit spark in us a want for more of Christ, causing us to avoid complacency, realizing that we can’t stand a moment absent from His presence.

themission.org

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

The Mission Church

41347 W I-55 Service Rd

Hammond, LA 70403

I want to challenge you to lean into Jesus in a greater way. Choose to eliminate distractions and be intentional in your pursuit of Him. The measure you choose to engage with God, will be the measure in which you receive from Him. I believe as you engage with Him you will find a love and fulfillment that your heart has never known before.

Name Dropping in Tangipahoa Parish

Written by Nick Gagliano

the world of economic development, it’s okay to name drop, and when it comes to name-dropping in recruiting new businesses to move here or expand here, Tangipahoa Parish Economic Development Director Ginger Cangelosi has an impressive list of names to drop.

“We are proud of the many global, national, regional and local businesses and industries that call Tangipahoa home,” said Cangelosi. “Our two latest companies to have a significant footprint in Tangipahoa Parish are Medline and Niagara Bottling Company.”

Medline recently held the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at their new $72 million dollar, 650,000 square foot distribution center east of the Hammond Regional Airport. Their medical supply distribution center will serve the healthcare community along the I-12, I-10, I-55, and I-49 corridors.

They plan to employ 400 plus full-time and part-time employees as they handle the distribution of tens of thousands of individual products and devices. Medline ships to healthcare providers across the continuum of care, such as hospitals, nursing homes, ambulatory surgery centers, hospices and physicians’ offices.

“Medline is an important piece of our economic development plan for Tangipahoa Parish,” said Robby Miller, president of Tangipahoa Parish. “This type of global

company makes other companies ask, ‘What makes Tangipahoa Parish special and why did Medline choose to build their distribution center there.’”

Ginger Cangelosi said the reason many companies look to move here and expand here is simple.

“We are here to help them find their way to a 'yes' and lend support as they explore the endless opportunities our parish has to offer.”

Niagara Bottling, one of the nation’s leading beverage manufacturers, is investing $160 million dollars to establish a 600,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art production facility in the Robert area. The company will create 70 plus new direct jobs with an average annual salary of $55,000.

The new, highly-automated facility will contain advanced equipment and technology that will increase production efficiency to allow the company to meet growing demand. Louisiana was chosen over competing states and the Tangipahoa Parish facility will be Niagara’s first location in the state.

“We work hard to grow our advanced manufacturing industry,” Robby Miller said. “We know this project will enhance Tangipahoa’s economic landscape and in turn, benefit everyone in this region.”

Ginger Cangelosi says it is the commitment from our Parish President and every department in the parish to find solutions rather than roadblocks. This is what gives Tangipahoa Parish an advantageous edge in recruiting businesses here.

“Our work with Niagara Bottling Company is an example of our typical approach to bring every arm of parish government to get the job done. Our Tangipahoa Parish Team’s mission is evaluating the needs of a new or expanding business, and then working with them to devise a plan that exceeds their expectations.”

Medline and Niagara Bottling Company are recent additions to the parish’s list of manufacturing and distribution companies such as Elmer’s Candy Company, Intralox, S & W Wholesale Foods, Wal-Mart Distribution, Wayfair Furniture, Ragan & Massey, Southland Structures, Smitty’s Fuels, and many other outstanding companies.

Ginger Cangelosi and her Economic Development Team continue to be a driving force in attracting other industries to Tangipahoa Parish. It is their goal to demonstrate the endless opportunities available by moving to or expanding in Tangipahoa Parish.

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/

T I N Y B U T

written By: North Oaks Health Systems

Bringing Healthcare

to Your Doorstep

Individuals struggle to access healthcare for many reasons, including transportation barriers, lack of insurance and geographic distance from healthcare facilities. North Oaks Health System is overcoming these obstacles with an innovative solution: North Oaks Mobile Care.

A 40-foot vehicle designed to bring healthcare services into the community where people gather, North Oaks Mobile Care was made possible thanks to the North Oaks Foundation and its major donor, First Guaranty Bank. The bank’s $200,000 contribution is the largest gift received to date by North Oaks Foundation and catapulted funds raised by the 501 (c)(3) organization beyond the $1 million mark, according to its director, Staci Arceneaux.

“When presented with the opportunity to assist North Oaks with the ability to give our community an easier, quicker means to primary care, health screenings and other much needed medical services, we jumped at it,” affirms First Guaranty Bank President and Chief Executive Officer Alton Lewis. “We understand that a healthy community thrives when our residents are healthy.”

“We are pleased to partner with the North Oaks Foundation and First Guaranty Bank to expand health care access beyond the brick and mortar of our facilities,” notes North Oaks President and Chief Executive Officer Michele Kidd Sutton, FACHE. “Their gift will help us care for people where they are, out in the community.”

A game-changer for local healthcare, North Oaks Mobile Care functions as a fully equipped clinic-on-wheels staffed by skilled providers and support staff bringing quality medical services to those who need it. The vehicle is specially designed with two exam rooms, a waiting area, restroom, wheelchair lift, blood drawing station and telehealth capabilities to name only a few features.

A wide range of healthcare services can be provided, from primary care and diagnostic services to immunizations, risk

Photos by johnny chauvin

40-Foot Mobile Clinic-On-Wheels

Staffed by North Oaks’ Skilled Providers Serving Tangipahoa & Livingston

Outfitted to conduct virtual visits with off-site providers

Exam Room 01

Wheelchair-Accessible

assessments and health screenings for cancer, heart health, diabetes/pre-diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol.

When necessary, North Oaks Mobile Care also can be activated for use in conjunction with occupational health partnerships and for emergency response and disaster recovery as needed.

“With North Oaks Mobile Care, we are aiming to drive healthy changes in our community by identifying and targeting specific health needs and bridging the gap between patients and healthcare providers,” asserts North Oaks Population Health Director Jesse Donahue. “Our goal is to build relationships and establish trust within the community.”

The North Oaks Mobile Care team plans to prioritize offering healthcare services to those who may have difficulty accessing healthcare facilities due to resources, distance or mobility issues.

“Many barriers prevent people from getting the healthcare they need. North Oaks Health System is aiming to make healthcare more accessible and attainable regardless of where you live or your circumstances with this new mobile care vehicle,” explains Service Line Vice President Saleta Costanza.

North Oaks Mobile Care made its official community debut at the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival in April. In its first months of operation, the North Oaks Mobile Care team also has performed outreach at the Southeastern Louisiana University baseball game versus Louisiana State University, Greater Mount Vernon Missionary Baptist Church, Grace Quarters Community Celebration and grocery stores in Hammond, Loranger, Robert and Ponchatoula. Screening events with First Guaranty Bank branches, the Second Saturday Breakfast Organization and locations in Livingston Parish are in the works.

To request North Oaks Mobile Care for your organization’s event, call (985) 230-CARE [2273] or complete an online request form at www.northoaks.org/mobilecare.

Northshore Regional STEM Center strives to bring opportunities to local students and community members because involvement with STEM is a pathway to prosperity for children and adults. Community engagement opens doors to jobs in health care, robotics, and environmental and computer science.

—

Science — Technology — Engineering

Math

We caught up with the movers and shakers of the parish STEM community to learn about their new projects. Present from Northshore Regional STEM Center were Wendy Conarro, Director; Dan Scheer, Education Manager; and Catie Mackey, Americorps VISTA Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator.

Tina Roper, Director of Geaux Jobs (Louisiana Workforce Area 20) and Board president involved with the Northshore STEM Coalition also joined the group, along with George Corkern, a robotics instructor from the Bogalusa YMCA who serves on the board of the Northshore STEM Coalition.

Other leaders in the STEM community include the following board members for the non-profit Northshore STEM Coalition: Collin Whitcombe, Northshore Regional STEM Center project coordinator, Dr. George Anthon, Anthon Chiropractic, Dr. Deborah Dardis, SLU Biology Department, Darnell Whitington, Explore & Learn, LLC, and Betty Lee, City of Hammond Recreation Department.

The group and its local sponsors have worked together for nearly a decade in various collaborations with present and former area politicians and community leaders. One such project is the annual Back-to-School STEM Fest at Southeastern held the last Saturday of August (26th this year) at SLU’s Pennington Student Activity Center. Last year, almost 2,000 school children and their families attended and interacted with 40+ organizations both inside and outside, like the Black Hawk helicopters on display. southeastern.edu/stemfest

A major hurdle here is rural isolation. The signature project, the Brain Food Truck (sponsored in part by the United Way and other local and groups), combats this by bringing mobile resources designed for hands-on, mindson STEM activities. Projects target kids in 3rd-8th grades on the Northshore by getting them involved in fun, reallife projects. The Brain Food Truck is available to use for both public and private events. brainfoodtruck.org

Written by Betsy O’Leary | Photos by Phillip Colwart

Conarro said parents seek year-round opportunities for eager kids with interests in STEM. To answer this need, the STEM Café project was born. Up to 200 kids attended each café held in five Northshore parish schools and community centers. northshorestem.org/stemcafes.

STEM’s connection to gaming, e-sports, and robotics have enhanced its popularity for kids eager to design games and write code for them. They realize well-paying game development and coding careers now begin with the skills developed in STEM.

When it comes to the big picture, the Northshore STEM Coalition is the think-tank and the community’s action arm tasked with strategizing and making the most of resources. There’s a need for quality STEM mentoring, and the Coalition uses a network of coaches to discover potential robotics mentors. The annual Robotics Mentoring Extravaganza by Mentorforrobotics.org builds relationships with industry insiders while leveraging resources to fund immersive STEM environments. Students need mentoring by faculty or community members who can share their expertise in business, marketing, and fundraising.

Investigating opportunities linked to STEM can change a family’s economic trajectory. Adults can take classes and get certified by completing either Northshore Technical Community College’s two-year program or a four-year degree from Southeastern. Highdemand STEM jobs can bring in competitive, six-figure salaries.

The interactive site STEMExchange.org was launched this year to connect people with industry resources. Anyone can create an account and check off interests. The Exchange will then notify the user via email with upcoming events and information on volunteer opportunities, and activities such as field trips and summer camps that fall into the selected catagories.

Hammond Airshow Challenge Winners

This past school year, the Hammond Airshow Challenge engaged hundreds of teachers and students, families and community members across southeast Louisiana to design, test and compete in four aviation challenges.

Registered students in 3rd grade through college chose one of four challenges to try their hand and engage their mind with the math and physics of flight. All of the challenges were designed to be done at school, home, or in the community. The Challenges were designed by the NASA STEM Engagement Astro Camp Team and administered by Northshore STEM.

Four teams comprised of 14 youth were selected as winners:

X-Plane Glider Challenge Winners: 1st Place - Blue Diamonds - Madison Ray, Brianna Dupart, Aubrey Narcisst, Faith Davis

2nd Place - Lemon Squad Beach - Ezekiel Montgomery, Da’Nae Magee, Jadon Sterling, Brian Dupart

3rd Place - Team Save the World - Laila Davis, Jamila Davis

Honorable Mention - HARD SuperStars - Elisa Johnson, Charvalis Travis, Nicholas Sturdevant

UAV Propeller Challenge Winner: 1st Place - Solo Voyager - Isabella Crosby

Each member of the winning teams will receive family ticket packages to the Hammond Airshow happening October 20-21 and additional prizes based on their winning placement.

“It is estimated that 60-80% of youth who play computer games get into STEM technology.

Lance Faust's

5 5 Favorite Favorite Things Things

Nathan “Lance” Faust is a successful Tangipahoa

Parish licensed contractor. He is a native of Loranger, La, and an alumnus of Loranger High School. In 1995, he was the Louisiana High School Bull Riding Champion. After graduating high school, Lance began working in construction, and married his wife, Kathy Bates Faust. Lance started his career working for Husky Builders and Hebert Construction.

He continued his career in construction by working for himself and he opened his own business in 2001. Lance is now a licensed contractor with the state of Louisiana and owner of Just-Rite Construction. He is a devoted husband and father to his children Kasie Faust, Troy Faust, and bonus child Bailey Oliphant.

Fishing

In the warmer months, you can find Lance on his boat fishing.   Being on the water and fishing allows him to decompress from the hustle and bustle that goes with being a contractor. It is a relaxing time for him to just enjoy nature and reconnect with his family.

Hunting

Lance loves hunting with his hounds. Whether it be for deer or rabbits, you can catch him in the woods. He grew up having beagles and has had hunting dogs his entire adult life.

Building Houses

Building houses is not just a job for Lance. Construction is his passion.  He loves to see the masterpieces that begin with a pile of lumber.  He takes pride in his work and it is a fulfilling to Lance when clients are pleased.

Cooking

From BBQ to boiling seafood and all of the in-between, you are sure to enjoy some good food when Lance whips it up. He enjoys cooking BBQ on his pit, tossing up some hibachi on the blackstone, or boiling up seafood in a pot. His cooking skills are on point, but like most men, his cleaning skills are not! He competes in the Hammond BBQ Challenge, cooking for Gulf Coast Bank. Lance has placed in many divisions.

1 2 3 4 5

Dancing

Anyone who knows Lance knows that he loves to dance. Whether its enjoying a night out, attending a wedding, or enjoying a family/friend gathering, you can catch him on the dance floor cutting a rug. He is always the life of the party, and the dance floor allows him to let loose and have a good time.

TRACC COALITION

Tangipahoa- Reshaping Attitudes for Community Change

TRACC's Mission is to create healthy attitudes for community wellness by addressing alcohol, tobacco and other drug use as a serious safety concern, public health issue and social problem in Tangipahoa Parish.

Summerishere! Enjoy the water and leave the alcohol athome. Louisiana State Law statesthatyou can get a DUI while operating any typeofmotorized vehicle,including water crafts, boats,and jet skis.

Besafeand responsible thisSummerseason!

June 16 - 12:00 PM - Clausen Building Large Conference Room - Hammond, LA

July 21 - 12:00 PM - Clausen Building Large Conference Room - Hammond, LA

Join KEYS Alliance!

KEYS stands for Keeping Every Youth Safe, and is the youth component to the TRACC Coalition. KEYS Alliance is comprised of 6-12 graders in Tangipahoa Parish looking to make a difference in their community!

For more information, scan the QR code and view the KEYS application!

Be Part of the Solution! Scan the QR Code to learn more about us, follow our social media, and more!

For more information, contact us at: 985-542-7138 • Email: tracc@tangipahoa.org 15485 West Club Deluxe Road Hammond, LA (Clausen Building)

HHMS Torbotics

Torbotics competed in four intense, non-stop days of competition against 620 teams from around the World April 19 - 22.

With this year’s competition season officially drawing to a close, it is humbling to reflect on just how successful it has been. Torbotics represented their team and community well, placing 9th in the world for Impact, inspiring them to continue to uphold their mission to #putSTEMFIRST. They are committed more than ever to fan the flame of interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math throughout our region and in doing so, systemically alter the importance placed on such pursuits.

In this unprecedented year, Torbotics earned this opportunity as the winner of the FIRST Impact Award at the Central Illinois Regional and then the overall event winner and Engineering Inspiration winner at the Bayou Regional, making them a “team to watch” by other teams and commentators.

The Torbotics staff and students would like to say thank you. Acknowledging they would not be able to do any of it without the continued support of the sponsors, families, and community.

TAKE ON THE WORLD

HAMMOND HIGH MAGNET SCHOOL ROBOTICS TEAM COMPETES AT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

The students worked extremely hard to earn this opportunity, with only the top 10% of FIRST Robotics Competition teams having the chance to compete on the World stage each year.

2023 Hammond BBQ Challenge

Chefs' Evening 2023

ARD ARD

Tangipahoa Professional Women's Women Mean Business Conference

Our

• Work together to provide every patient and their family with individualized goals of care

• Establish and implement a discharge plan

• Assist patient with obtaining community resources needed upon discharge

To

Meet our Case Managers at PAM Health Specialty Hospital of Hammond. From Left to right; Lindy Bourlet, RN, Alicia Sharp, RN/Director, Precious Oglesby, RN & Jeanie Lieser, RN Not Pictured; Annette Baudoin, RN, Janet Becnel, RN & Jocelyn Robinson, RN

Postmaster: Please deliver between June 1-5, 2023