TANGI lifestyles TANGI lifestyles
Tangipahoa is the place we all choose to call home, and this magazine is dedicated to celebrating some of the best things about our parish. As we do on our radio stations daily, each issue of Tangi Lifestyles celebrates our local schools, businesses, social organizations, civic groups, and people of interest. In this issue, we’ll introduce you to Tangipahoa Parish’s new Sheriff, Gerald Sticker, highlight local business’ success stories, and celebrate the Columbia Theatre’s Fanfare and new season. We also help kick off the school year and the high school and college football seasons with team previews. We hope you enjoy!
Beginning August 30th, be sure to tune in to or stream Tangi 96.5 and Kajun 107.1 every Friday night to listen to a local High School Game of the Week and tune into Kajun 107.1, Boss 103.7, and Highway 104.7 as we broadcast all of SLU’s football games! LION UP!!
It’s hurricane season. Please take time to review your hurricane checklist and be sure to download the Tangi965 and Kajun107 apps so you can listen anywhere you have internet or cell service. We also recommend investing in a small battery-powered radio so when the power, internet, and cell service are interrupted, you can stay informed in the critical 24-72 hours after an event.
We live in a vibrant, growing community! We encourage our readers to send us pictures to include in our Seen N Heard section, to send us ideas for stories you’d like to read, and to send us your events for our Calendar of Events. Send all to pics@cwdfm.com. We’re proud to call Tangipahoa home. Buy local. Be local. Promote local. We do it EVERY day. We hope you will too!
PUBLISHER
Northshore Media Group
Angela Blake
PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS
Johnny Chauvin
Phillip Colwart
Riyen Helg
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
Erin Bolton
Eloise Cottrell
Charles Dowdy
Nick Gagliano
Debi Menasco
Betsy O'Leary
Brian Shirey
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Erin Bolton
Debi Menasco
Rebecca Blossman-Ferran
Cindy Nichols
Bethany Beougher
ADVERTISING
For advertising rates, call (985) 345-0060 lifestyles@cwdfm.com
CORRESPONDENCE
200 East Thomas St. Hammond, LA 70401
Calendar submissions and “Seen and Heard” pictures may be emailed to pics@cwdfm.com
On the Cover:
985.345.0060
40 years is a long time to invest in a business and in a community. Tangi Electric celebrates this milestone while also looking toward future growth. Learn more about this Tangipahoa business on page 8.
August/September 2024 Volume 18, Issue 4
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.
Cover photo by Riyen Helg
Photo by Randy Bergeron Southeastern Louisiana University
Photo
2024
AUGUST SEPTEMBER
8/2-29 — Hammond Art Guild 62nd Annual Open Judged Exhibition
Hammond Regional Arts Center 5-8 p.m. • hammondarts.org
8/2 — Opening Reception Gallery Show 5:30-7pm • Twin Steeples Creative Arts Center, Ponchatoula • Twinsteeples.org
8/7 — Hammond Art Guild Artist Talk + Gallery Tour
Hammond Regional Arts Center 5 p.m. • hammondarts.org
8/8 — Leads for Lunch – TBD 11:30 – 1 • Tangipahoachamber.org
8/10 — Chillin with the Chamber 6:30 to 9:30 PM • Chappapeela Sports Park Tangipahoachamber.org
8/17 — Cucuzza Day Italian Cultural Museum • Independence Indymuseum.org
8/22— Amite Chamber After Hours TBD • 5-7 • Amitechamber.org
8/22 — Open Mic
Twin Steeples Creative Arts Center, Ponchatoula Twinsteeples.org
8/24 — Back To School STEM Festival 10am • SLU Pennington Center • Northshorestem.org
8/24 — ISO Twin Steeples Twin Steeples Creative Arts Center, Ponchatoula • Twinsteeples.org
8/24 — Cate Street Seafood Station’s 20th Anniversary Mezzanine Event Hal • Hammond • Catestreet308.com
8/29 — Amite Chamber LuncheonSenator Bill Cassidy • 11:30 A – 1 P Florida Parishes Arena • Amite • Amitechamber.org
FIRST FRIDAY OF MONTH
Gospel Music Fest
13101 Hwy, 442 W. • Tickfaw
985.974.0507 • mvmgoodnews.com
EVERY SATURDAY
Hammond Farmers & Artisans Market
8 AM - 12 PM • 106 NW Railroad Ave.
Independence Craft & Farmers’ Market
8:30 am - 1 pm
750 E. Railroad Ave., Independence, Facebook.com/Independence
Denham Springs Farmers’ Market
8 AM - 12 PM • Historical District
TangiLifestyles.com
9/5 — Opening Reception Gallery Show 5:30-7pm • Twin Steeples Creative Arts Center, Ponchatoula • Twinsteeples.org
9/6-26 — Retrospectrum: The Unseen Works by Alex Harvie & TJ Black •5-8 PM Hammond Regional Arts Center • hammondarts.org
9/6 — Live After 5 - Peyton Falgout Band 7-10 PM • Downtown Ponchatoula cityofponchatoula.com
9/7 — ARTisTRY Classes (Kids/Teens)
Hammond Regional Arts Center • hammondarts.org 10 A - Noon - Kids • 1-3 PM Teens
9/10 — Death at a Disco • 7 - 10 PM
Police Union Hall, Hammond • Tangicrimestoppers.com
9/10 — Ponchatoula Chamber Business Expo 6-9 PM • Ponchatoula Lions Club Ponchatoulachamber.com
9/12 — Leads for Lunch
TBD • 11:30A – 1 P • Tangipahoachamber.org
9/13 — Death at a Disco 7-10 • Police Union Hall, Hammond Tangicrimestoppers.com
9/21 — ARTisTRY Classes (Adults)
Hammond Regional Arts Center • hammondarts.org
10 A - Noon - Kids • 1-3 PM Teens
9/21 — Sotto Le Stelle
Italian Cultural Museum, Independence • Indymuseum.org
9/26 — Open Mic
Twin Steeples Creative Arts Center, Ponchatoula Twinsteeples.org
9/26 — Amite Chamber After Hours
TBD • 5-7 • Amitechamber.org
9/27 & 28 — 13th Annual TPSO Mounted Division Rodeo
Florida Parishes Arena • Amite • 985.969.9313
9/28 – Richard Murphy Hospice Gala
7 PM • Chappapeela Sports Park Richardmurphyhospice.com
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
EVERY TUESDAY
WE — Wellness Empowerment
6 PM • 108 S. Pine St. • Hammond 985.634.8313 we@wellness empowerment.org
HONOREE
Melissa Tryniecki Bordelon, President and CEO of the Tangipahoa Chamber of Commerce since 2015, was surprised with an Annie Award at the Annie Luncheon in June. She is a creative thinker, strategic connector, and collaborative problem solver. A “people-first” person, she embraces her life and leadership role with the best interests of others and long-term growth and success in mind.
Growing up in Hammond, “Missy” attended Holy Ghost Catholic School and graduated from Hammond High. She earned a BA in Communications from Southeastern Louisiana University and an MBA from Mississippi State University.
As a Chamber professional, she holds Institute for Organizational Management (IOM) certification and is a Business Leads Fellow with the US Chamber of Commerce. Melissa served as the 2023 Chairman of the Board for the Louisiana Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (LACCE), and through that role, served on the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry Board (LABI). She also served as Director of Programs and Events with the St. Tammany Chamber.
Melissa is a graduate of the New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute (NORLI), Leadership Tangipahoa, and Leadership St. Tammany. She currently serves on the Boards of both Leadership Tangipahoa and NORLI. Melissa enjoys her involvement with the Hammond Northshore Regional Airshow, serving as a Committee Chair since the Airshow’s return.
Melissa is an “Original” New Orleans Saintsation. Her involvement with Southeastern includes past roles as Annual Fund Director, Alumni Board Member, Lionette Alumni Chapter President, and Lionette Dance Team Director.
Melissa credits her parents, Jim and the late Linda Tryniecki, for instilling a strong work ethic and “make it happen” spirit. She and her husband, Nic, have three adult children and two sons-in-law: Kelsey and Jake Kojeski, James Bryce Bordelon, Karley and Nick Fontenot, and granddaughter Serena Rose Fontenot. She cherishes time spent at home with her family, enjoying good food and great music.
TANGI ELECTRIC
GETTING THE JOB DONE FOR 40 YEARS AND COUNTING!
Story by Nick Gagliano | Photos by Riyen Helg
Although the open roads before him and exploring the country on his Harley are on his mind, Vince Roubique is not quite ready to ride off into the sunset.
“After 40 years of servicing the businesses and families in southeast Louisiana, I’m ready to step back a little,” said Roubique. “I am extremely confident and proud that my son-in-law, Cody Cooper, will be able to continue the tradition of Tangi Electric moving forward.”
Vince Roubique and Tangi Electric are truly a local success story that has all the elements of a great story—hard work, great employees, and being at the right place at the right time.
The story began in 1984 when Vince and Donnie Ferrara started working together as electrical contractors. Vince, a native of Independence, had worked in Baker, Louisiana. “My early career was in service work, so I knew I could be successful here.”
In 1989 he ventured out on his own; hence, Tangi Electric and Maintenance Company. His first big break came that same year when he was awarded a service contract with TK Valve in Hammond. It was an 18-month job, and that’s when he realized that his future was in service work, not bid work.
The late Charlie Blackwell had a service contract with Albertsons in Seville Plaza. He asked Vince to handle a small one-hour job at Albertsons. After he was finished, the manager of Walmart, which at the time was located next door to Albertsons, saw the Tangi Electric truck and asked Vince to complete a small one-hour job for him. Following the completion, Vince had secured all of the Hammond Walmart’s service work, and from there, it expanded to the Walmart stores in St. Tammany and in Baton Rouge.
Roubique’s next big break was being at the right place at the right time.
On the day before the new Walmart store was to open in Hammond, they had a serious electrical problem and reached out to Tangi Electric. Vince and his crew worked through the night to get it corrected and they were able to open as scheduled the next day.
When the Walmart Distribution Center was being built, Vince was contacted to provide the entire electrical installation. The job would need 40 to 50 electricians, and at the time, Vince had four guys and two trucks. But not wanting to turn the job down, Vince scrambled to secure the number of electricians needed to complete the job.
Vince assumed he got the job because of his service work reputation with the other stores. However, after completion, the construction manager said he hadn't heard of Tangi Electric, and that they got the job because, of the three companies he called, Vince was the only one who returned his phone call.
“With service work, we sell time and experience. If a job is $100 or $1,000, we’ll show up and get the job done right for your business or your family.”
— Vince Roubique
Tangi Electric also played a huge role in the recovery efforts following Hurricanes Katrina and Ida.
"Katrina taught us a lot. In fact, it was after Katrina that we expanded Tangi Electric to stock, sell, and service Generac generators. "When Hurricane Ida hit our area a few years ago, we were prepared for it and had over 200 generator customers serviced. We knew what needed to be done to get our customers' businesses and homes back up and running as soon as possible."
Tangi Electric understands the importance of your generator running at its best when you need it most. This is why they're not only certified technicians for one of the most popular generators on the market today, but they pride themselves in having one of the best service and maintenance programs around.
“I've been extremely blessed with a great family, a great work team, and great customers. After Ida, I realized it was time for me to step back and let my son-in-law, Cody Cooper, step up and run the company. He has been with me for a number of years and is extremely knowledgeable and capable. Cody knows customers come first while treating the staff like family. I love working, and I’ll still be around, but Cody will be running the ship.”
With Cody at the helm and Tangi Electric running smoothly, Vince and his wife, Patti, are ready to spend more time on his Harley to explore the open roads. “I love being on my Harley and just riding. Now, Patti and I can drive to Nashville to grab lunch and come back, or we can take a few weeks and see our great country.”
Vince Roubique and Tangi Electric are a true success story that good guys who work hard, have a great team, and are at the right place at the right time can finish first. To reach them, you can go to tangielectric.com or call them at 985-542-9124.
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Southeast Louisiana Urology Associates is dedicated to providing the best patient experience possible. The clinic is equipped with comprehensive facilities and resources to diagnose and treat a wide range of urological conditions. Serving the Northshore Since 1985.
The Lions Are on the Hunt to Take the
OUTHLAND CONFERENCE
Written by Blake Esta
After capturing the Southland Conference title in 2022, the hype was real for Southeastern. The community was excited to come out, loud and proud, to support their Lions and give them the nudge they needed to establish themselves as a powerhouse in FCS football. A 0-7 start to the season gave plenty reason to lose faith and find something else to do on a Saturday afternoon. However, to much surprise, Lion fans continued to show up and ROAR!
After many tough losses, the Lions faithful kept showing up, while keeping the same faith Coach Scelfo instills in his players, that "the turning point is right behind the whistle to start the next game."
The Lions won 3 of their last 4 to close the season. Defeating rivals Northwestern State and McNeese, and taking Nicholls down to the final whistle. This showed the team, much like its fans, just doesn’t quit. Were there injuries? Of course. Was the start to the season especially brutal with FBS matchups
on the road? Obviously. Were there excuses made by this coaching staff and players at any point? Absolutely not! 2024 sees a change at the offensive coordinator position as Anthony Scelfo steps in. The unit is looking for revitalization after failing to average 30 points per game for the first time since Frank Scelfo’s first season with the Lions. The nonconference schedule doesn’t get easier as our Lions open the year on the road at Tulane, then head to Hattiesburg for a game against Southern Miss.
The home schedule doesn’t get easier but features two national marquee matchups as Southeastern welcomes in Eastern Washington and back-to-back National Champions South Dakota State. Quite simply as Ric Flair would say, "To be the man, you've got to beat the man!" and that’s what Scelfo’s squad is aiming to do. Be sure to head out for the incredible lineup and cheer on your Lions as they look to re-claim their spot atop the Southland Conference.
ALBANY Hornets
HEAD COACH: John Legoria
A season full of ups and downs saw the Hornets make the playoffs for the second year in a row under Head Coach John Legoria. Winners of 5 of their first 7 games, whether it was injuries or the toll of replacing a true QB from the year prior, the wheels fell off losing their last 3 regular season games and being bounced from the first round of the playoffs. Albany looks to continue to improve as they enter year three bought in to the culture being developed.
2023 RECORD: 5-5*
AMITE WARRIORs
HEAD COACH: Zephaniah Powell
Another year, and yet another playoff run for the Warriors. It’s simply the expectation. Amite made it to the quarterfinals once again before ultimately losing to powerhouse Jena.
FOOTBALL PREVIEW
HAMMOND Tornadoes
HEAD COACH: Dorsett Buckels LISTEN
LISTEN LIVE EVERY
2022 SEASON ARE YOU READY?
As we get ready for the 2024 season, the formula remains the same for Coach Powell and you can pencil the Warriors in to your playoff brackets and see how far they make it.
2023 RECORD: 5-4*
Sometimes a successful season comes down to a handful of plays going the right way. Unfortunately for Hammond a year ago, two losses by a single point each told the tale of the Tornadoes. With a program that was revitalized since Coach Buckels took over in 2020, they’ll look to take that next step as a dangerous team who can beat anyone, to a team who DOES beat anyone and get back into the playoffs.
2023 RECORD: 5-5
FOOTBALL PREVIEW
independence Tigers jewel sumner Cowboys
EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT
HEAD COACH: Travis Mikel
Answer. That’s been coach Mikel’s motto since taking over a year ago, and by season’s end there was no longer a question. Losing their first four games all by double digits, the middle of the season showed a spark as the Tigers ripped off three consecutive victories and showed a lot more fight in their losses to end the season than those at the beginning. A winning program doesn’t happen overnight, but the signs are there from early on.
2023 RECORD: 3-7
HEAD COACH: Ross Currier
After an 0-2 start on the road, a 4-1 mark in consecutive home games helped turn the season for the Cowboys and cemented it with a road victory over Amite in the final week of the regular season. Things turned sour in the rematch in the playoffs, but Sumner has shown they’re no pushover as 3A’s District 8 continues to make the case as being arguably the toughest in the state.
HEAD COACH: Cornelius Blount
As Amite does in Non-select Division 3, so do the Kangaroos in Division 4. A team that has proven time and time again their prowess, Kentwood made a run to the semi-finals where they lost to eventual state champion Oak Grove. However, the landscape has changed under The Big Tank. Having served as Offensive Coordinator for long time Head Coach Jonathan Foster for 10 years, Blount steps into his new role as Head Coach looking to keep alive Kentwood’s 49-year streak of making it to the playoffs.
RECORD: 8-2*
loranger Wolves oak forest Yellow Jackets
HEAD COACH: Sammy Messina
Things have slowly been building for Loranger in the past few seasons, and the final three weeks looked like the corner may have started to turn. Lighting up the score board for 152 points, the Wolves seemed to have truly taken the offense to that next level they’ve been searching for and come into this season with the hope of picking up where they left off. Loranger looks on the verge of capturing their first winning season since going 10-0 in 2019.
HEAD COACH: Drew Misita
FOOTBALL PREVIEW
LISTEN LIVE EVERY
HEAD COACH: Timothy Walters
There’s no sugar coating the disappointment for the Yellow Jackets last year. A .500 record and making it to the second round of the playoffs is good, but not as sweet when you’re the defending state champion. Make no mistake about it, that’s just reality of the expectations Coach Drew Misita has set for this program, and they’re working hard to make another run at the title.
Trey Willie did a commendable job when he replaced longtime Greenwave Coach Hank Tierney. Now, Timothy Walters gets his crack at coming in to re-establish Ponchatoula as one of the premier teams in the state. Having been with Ponchatoula since Tierney came to town in 2011 and Defensive Coordinator of the Green Wave since 2014, don’t expect wholesale changes as Walters has familiarity with the team, staff, and community around him.
FOOTBALL PREVIEW
springfield Bulldogs
St. Helena Hawks
ST. Thomas Aquinas Falcons
EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT
HEAD COACH: Ryan Serpas
HEAD COACH: Christopher Gordon
HEAD COACH: Tino Fletcher
Winners of four of their first five games, the 2023 season turned sour quickly as the Bulldogs were unable to snatch a victory the rest of the year. The start was strong enough to earn Springfield a spot in the playoffs where they lost in the opening round. It’s about continued improvement for Serpas’ squad, returning to the playoffs was a nice start, but fairing better in district play is critical for 2024.
2023 RECORD: 4-6*
Christopher Gordon enters year three as signal caller for the Hawks having been tested on and off the field. Last season, was tumultuous having to deal with tragedy on campus cancelling two of their scheduled games as the school and community recovered. Overall finishing 4-4 and getting into the playoffs was impressive with the adversity thrust upon them, and this season they’ll look to enter the year with extra motivation in hopes of getting back to the Superdome for the first time since 2017.
St. Thomas started over from the bottom with first year head coach Shane Mulhern a year ago, but personal matters has left the Falcons starting over again with Tino Fletcher. Coach Fletcher has spent time with St. Thomas in the past and moved back to Hammond for the opportunity to bring them back to the top. Look for the Falcons to try to re-claim their spot atop 2A District 9.
2023 RECORD: 4-4* 2023 RECORD: 5-5*
STILL FANFARE After All These Years
By Donna Gay Anderson and Jim Winter
IN1985, Harriet Vogt was teaching vocal performance in the Music Department at Southeastern Louisiana University. Out of fiscal urgency, the university was discontinuing its football program and
the semester seemed quieter with less excitement in the air. Ms. Vogt and some of her colleagues pontificated that without football, there would be an absence of excitement that came with a semester filled with games.
Considering that, Vogt and her colleagues, Karen White and Roy Blackwood, pondered what they could do to enhance the academic and cultural landscape at Southeastern in the fall. Together, they proposed to the administration that an annual arts festival be developed; one that would stimulate creativity, curiosity, and engagement while instilling fresh pride in Southeastern. They took the idea to University President G. Warren Smith along with a budget proposal and examples of other similar festivals.
by university ensembles and notable international artists.
Many of these artists would also participate in education outreach events for students from Southeastern and the surrounding region. Initially, Vogt, White, and Blackwood collectively administered Fanfare along with faculty member Larry Gray. Then, Ms. Vogt was named as the first Artistic Director. For just under 15 years, she led the charge to bring a plethora of artistic and intellectual offerings to the area. Any given October might bring over 100 presentations. Excitement was again in the air.
When Vogt retired in 1999, Donna Gay Anderson was hired to fill her position. During Anderson’s tenure, the university acquired and refurbished Hammond’s Historic Downtown Columbia Theatre so that vibrant arts presentations could grow and thrive perpetually, even when Fanfare had concluded for the year. Thanks to the perseverance of University President Sally Clausen, Ms. Vogt, and Downtown Development Director Marguerite Walter, Senator John Hainkel’s support was secured. Hainkel obtained state funding to launch the endeavor.
The Fanfare staff of three soon evolved into the Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts staff of five plus supplemental positions.
A year-round main stage season was enhanced with performances by local talent of all ages. The Columbia regularly presented shows by a variety of notable ensembles and individuals such as Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Lou Rawls, Greg Allman, The Pointer Sisters, and The Aquila Theatre. The Columbia Theatre became the jewel in the crown of Southeastern, and Downtown Hammond flourished with it as a cultural and economic anchor.
After almost eleven years in the position of Artistic Director, Anderson departed and Dr. Ken Bolton briefly served as Interim Director before Roy Blackwood took the Director’s chair, operating the Columbia Theatre and Fanfare in the tradition of excellence.
Reduced funding, the pandemic, Hurricane Ida, and budget cuts have impacted what Fanfare is presently compared to what it once was. Current Artistic Director, Jim Winter, has been working very closely with Southeastern Louisiana University President Dr. William Wainwright to keep Fanfare’s spotlight shining brightly.
Fanfare 2024 promises to be truly spectacular as Southeastern Louisiana University begins a year-long Centennial celebration. This fall’s Fanfare highlights at the Columbia Theatre include, Hey! Ho! Let’s Go: 50 Years of CBGB, a concert celebrating one of the most famous music clubs in the history of New York City; the Jefferson Performing Arts Society’s touring production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s School of Rock, and local radio favorites Johnny Chauvin and TJ Maggio heading up an all-star cast that will recreate the historic 1938 War of the Worlds radio broadcast live from the Columbia’s Hainkel Hall. On Southeastern’s campus, Dr. William Robison and Dr. Joseph Burns will headline Fanfare’s annual lecture series.
The 2024 Fanfare events will extend beyond Southeastern’s campus and the Columbia Theatre’s walls. At Reimer’s Auditorium in Downtown Hammond, Southeastern Theatre will present Clybourne Park, winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Play. With new events being added daily, Fanfare 2024 promises to be an incredible celebration of the arts! Visit columbiatheatre.org or call (985) 549-ARTS for the most up-to-date Fanfare listings and to purchase tickets.
Northshore Media Group has grown with the northshore, evolving from its beginnings as local radio stations into a complete media company, that’s dedicated to serving southeast Louisiana and southwest Mississippi. Over the past three decades, the northshore has undergone a remarkable transformation, transitioning from a sleepy collection of separate communities to an expanding and very connected, metropolitan area. Three decades ago, the trip from Hammond to Slidell featured a lot of pine trees and little traffic. Not so much today, as these cities have grown toward one another, with residents freely moving between them, sharing in the region’s resources and contributing to the northshore’s culture, which is distinct from nearby New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
Northshore Media Group has mirrored this evolution, expanding beyond its origins as a radio-only operation. Locally owned by Eloise Cottrell, Charles Dowdy and Brian Shirey, the company operates 13 broadcast and streaming radio stations, 5 print publications, a suite of podcast services, and a range of digital advertising products. This comprehensive approach ensures that residents stay engaged and informed through local content while providing businesses with effective tools to connect with their target audiences.
“It is satisfying and humbling serving our community of loyal listeners, readers, and fellow business owners,” says Eloise Cottrell.
Radio and Print: Time-Tested Channels
Of course, the heart of Northshore Media Group’s local presence lies in its radio and print offerings. Their radio stations feature popular local morning shows and on-air personalities who provide not just entertainment but crucial local news updates and interviews. These stations serve as platforms for local businesses to reach large numbers of potential customers effectively. Similarly, their print publications emphasize community events and lifestyle features offering advertisers tangible connections with readers.
“Every day we are energized by the feedback we get from listeners and readers across the parishes we serve,” says Charles Dowdy, “The diversity of the people we connect with is amazing!”
Podcasts: On-Demand Engagement
Recognizing the growing popularity of podcasts, Northshore Media Group has expanded into this medium, enabling businesses to engage niche audiences through on-demand audio content. Whether creating branded podcasts or leveraging existing shows for advertising, the company facilitates strategic planning, production, and distribution to maximize engagement
Introducing the New Suite of Digital Products
And finally, in response to the evolving digital landscape, Northshore Media Group has introduced a suite of digital products. These include responsive website design and management, s earch engine optimization (SEO), digital display marketing, and social media management. These tools empower local businesses to enhance their online presence and engage with customers in innovative ways, ensuring they remain competitive in the digital world.
Brian Shirey, General Manager of Northshore Media Group underscores their commitment to community and business success.
“Our platforms serve to inform, entertain, and connect our neighbors, while also providing effective solutions for local businesses to reach their clientele. We simplify the complex marketing process for northshore businesses.”
Through its integrated approach spanning radio, print, podcasts, and digital media, Northshore Media Group remains steadfast in its mission to support local businesses and enrich community life. Their evolution reflects a deep-rooted dedication to authenticity, community engagement, and innovation, ensuring they continue to play a pivotal role in the northshore’s ongoing growth and development.
Northshore Media Group’s journey from a radio company to a multi-faceted media enterprise mirrors the northshore’s own transformation. As both have grown and adapted, this media group has reinforced their commitment to serving and enhancing the vibrant communities they call home. northshoremedia.net
We offer a variety of sizes and profiles to fit every need From K-style & Half-Round to custom commercial, we have the solutions for you!
GUTTER CLEANING
Stay off the ladder this year and allow SGS Gutters to clean, re-align and re-seal your existing gutters to ensure proper function for the rainy season *Includes a free gutter inspection
LEAF PROTECTION
Looking for a permanent solution to gutter cleaning? We offer a variety of Leaf Filtering Guards to ensure a maintenance free gutter system
GUTTER INSTALLATION FREE ESTIMATES
Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa
AT THE presents
Disco Disco
Imagine a scenario where a series of burglaries have occurred in your neighborhood. The police have limited leads and no suspects. A resident who witnessed suspicious behavior but fears retaliation calls the Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s tip line anonymously. They provide detailed information about a vehicle seen at the crime scenes. The tip leads police to investigate and eventually arrest a suspect, recovering stolen property and solving the case.
In this example, the anonymity and reward provided by Crime Stoppers motivated the resident to share crucial information, directly contributing to solving the crimes and enhancing community safety.
Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa (CST) is a partnership of the public, law enforcement, and media which provides the community with a proactive program for people to report anonymous tips and assist law enforcement in solving crimes. CST offers cash rewards to anyone
furnishing anonymous information that leads to the arrest of criminals, including those committing serious felony crimes and fugitives. Tips are received through the 800 number, website, or the P3 App. Each tipster is assigned a code number for the purpose of ensuring anonymity.
Since 2008, Crime Stoppers has received over 11,219 tips, assisted in 2,193 arrests, cleared 2,780 cases, and paid over $254,825 in rewards.
How does it work?
Submit tips by calling 800.554.5245 or visit tangicrimestoppers.com and click Submit a Tip or download the P3 APP.
EVIDENCE
Law Enforcement investigates the tip, and if the tip leads to an arrest, or provides information on a case, a cash reward is offered to the tipster anonymously.
Crime Stoppers is hard at work in Tangipahoa by providing crime prevention programs, Safe School Initiative - Student Anonymous Hotline, offering female self-defense classes instructed by Sensi Frank DiBenedetto, and instructing neighborhood watch programs, and hosting free community events. CST is in partnership with SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions), TADAC (Tangipahoa Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council) and TRACC (Tangipahoa Reshaping Attitudes for Community Change).
Although Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa receives allocated funding from parish court fees to pay rewards to tipsters, Crime Stoppers is a 501©3 nonprofit corporation primarily funded by individual donations, civil nonprofit organizations, and fundraisers.
With the support of many sponsors, Crime Stoppers will host the third murder mystery fundraiser, Death at a Disco. There will be a lineup of six suspects wanted for questioning. Death at a Disco will keep those guessing "who done it" while guests are entertained with music, food and a groovy cocktail. Participants will have a chance to win door prizes if they can shake down the suspects for clues. Come solve the murder and help Crime Stoppers continue crime prevention in Tangipahoa and St. Helena parishes by purchasing a ticket, $75 for singles and $125 for couples. For more information, contact Michelle Gallo at 985.662.5557 or email tangicrimestoppers@gmail.com . Check out our website at www.tangimurdermystery.com
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As a family-owned and operated business, a st rong local economy is important to us.
Our local business depends on local families spending the income they earned at good paying jobs in Tangipahoa Parish.
For the past 21 years, Brandon’s in Amite has supplied our community with propane, appliances, outdoor cooking and hunting supplies. We know our customers and when they do well, we do well.
We are excited about the future of Tangipahoa Parish. Tangipahoa Economic Development Director Ginger Cangelosi and her team provide support to all existing local businesses while attracting new businesses and investments here.”
Brandon Voight
Southeastern is in Zoology, and Tim is a state-registered beekeeper with a degree in Forestry from LSU. The husband-and-wife duo manage more than 100 honeybee hives in Tangipahoa Parish.
Angie and Tim began beekeeping as a hobby. But their bees produced such sweet and clear honey that friends’ and family members’ requests for more jars induced her to kick production up a notch. In 2018, the couple incorporated their business and began selling on their Facebook page and Etsy sites. They also began renting booths at local farmers’ markets and festivals.
And They Were Off!
The increased demand caused them to expand their hives and quadrupled their apiary, which is a collection of separate hives. People just loved the taste of their honey, and Tim thinks that has to do with the Tangipahoa River running right behind their property. Tim believes the diversity of flora in that area gives their honey a unique woodsy taste that’s sweet and mild. But if you want a little bit of heat in your honey, Angie has you covered there too. A bumper crop of jalapeños one year got her wheels turning, and she created a “hot honey” recipe packed with flavor to delight taste buds.
Tim To The Rescue!
While bees are vital to the planet’s ecosystem, nuisance hives can spring up in homes. “People don’t realize for quite a while that they have an active hive in their home,” said Tim. “By the time they call us, the hive is usually well established.”
Attics and underneath the eaves are popular spots for feral bees to take up residency, but they have also been known to settle in the subflooring and other tight spots. Tim goes onsite to safely rescue the bees and relocates the hive. He will then set them up in an isolation area until he is sure the hive is healthy and free of diseases. Once he determines it is a healthy hive, the bees are introduced to other apiaries on the farm.
Bee Farm products can be found at the Channell Group Pharmacy stores, and on the shelves of 25 retail shops in our parish, St. Tammany Parish, and in Metairie. Honey sells well during both the spring and fall allergy seasons because of the belief that it can relieve allergy symptoms.
Sweet Future!
Angie is also excited about partnering with local businesses to make one-of-a-kind gift items for special events such as weddings. Her passion is evident when she shared, “We even created a special lion mold to add unique “Roomie” lotion bars to gift baskets given to special guests of Southeastern.”
Although the farm is a business, it is also used to educate the public. Angie enjoys sharing her knowledge with local children at area libraries. The Lacostes take a glassencased working hive for demonstrations and teach children and adults about the important role of bees.
superior produce. “Without the bees doing
Although honey is a sweet bonus to running
bees is beeswax. Each year in mid summer, the couple begins to collect the beeswax into 40 lb. blocks which they will use throughout the year to craft lip balms, artisanal beeswax
What started out as a hobby has developed into a self-sustaining business that helps the local community to thrive. The Lacostes and Red Hill Bee Farm are headed for a sweet future.
If you want to connect with Angie and Tim,you can find them on Etsy, follow them on Faceboook or call them at (985) 247-5146. You may also, of course, choose the sweetest option and visit the farm in Independence by appointment.
LANCE VICKNAIR OWNER
Michelle Starkey
Making a profound difference in the community she loves.
Story by Betsy O’Leary | Photography by Johnny Chauvin
"It is comforting to know you are not alone and tha t others can relate to what you're going through. For that p urpose, group therapy is indispensable." — Michelle Starkey
Michelle Starkey is passionate about helping to improve the mental health of the local community. She has spent most of the last 10 years pushing herself to earn a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She received her degree from Southeastern Louisiana University in 2019 and completed a year-long certification in addiction from Louisiana Association of Substance Abuse Counselors and Trainers (LASACT) in 2020. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based treatment that has proven to be very effective in treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. Since January 2021, Starkey has been working on a Ph.D. in Behavioral Health from Holy Cross University and is presently finishing her dissertation and will be graduating with her doctorate in December 2024.
After working as a psychotherapist for several years, Michelle decided it was time to launch a private practice and Imagine Healing Therapy(IHT) was born. IHT is located in downtown Hammond at 406 W. Morris Avenue, Suite C.
IHT provides a safe, confidential space for individuals to explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences through a holistic approach that integrates various therapeutic techniques tailored to individual’s needs. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, or addiction, IHT can help. Due to Michelle’s own path and personal struggles, she has found that teenagers and addiction are her personal wheelhouse. Michelle doesn’t stop there, she also serves individuals suffering from a wide array of mental health concerns as well as couples who struggle with communication.
Whether you’re seeking individual therapy or group therapy, Michelle offers both. Unlike individual talk therapy,
GroupWorkx is for those individuals who could benefit from the opportunity to share and discuss common concerns and explore solutions under the guidance of a trained psychotherapist in a group setting. GroupWorkx offers an innovative, collaborative approach for individuals with likeminded struggles in a supportive, non-judgmental space. For those who are unable to afford individual therapy, group therapy can be the perfect fit.
Michelle states, “It is comforting to know you are not alone and that others can relate to what you’re going through. For that purpose, group therapy is indispensable.”
GroupWorkx offers the following focus groups:
1. Strength in Numbers: Family & Friends of Those Struggling with Addiction
2. Freedom Fighters: For those Struggling with Addiction
3. Stronger Together: For Those with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, and Grief
4. Breaking Codependency: Healing Negative Relationship Patterns
5. Self-Care Construction: The Empowerment of Self-Love
6. Surviving Teenagers: Parents/Guardians Discuss the Difficulties of Raising Teens
7. Struggles and Solutions: ADHD and Bipolar all-encompassing support and strategies
8. Helping the Helpers: Supporting Those Caring for Others
9. Coaching Couples:
Building Strong and Healthy Relationships Together
10. Fusion: Women Only
11. Ignition: Men Only
12. Not In A Box: A Healthy Space for Transgender and Gender Nonconforming
Insurance Accepted
Michelle accepts most major insurances at $120/hr. and also offers a cash option at a $1/minute rate for individual therapy. Group rates are $25 per person, per session.
SHE RUNS A NONPROFIT
As a way to give back to that community and provide a space for those who either do not fit into any of the 12-step boxes or seek an alternative, Michelle founded the 501c3 nonprofit group Wellness Empowerment (WE). WE is a free community-based support group designed to provide an interactive venue for health and wellness to help improve individual quality of life and the opportunity to connect with others seeking the same. WE meets every Tuesday evening at 6:00 in the old Hammond Library (108 S. Pine.)
HOW TO FIND HER
Those seeking to transform their lives can join Michelle through WE, Imagine Healing Therapy, or GroupWorkx.
For more information, call (985) 205-8822, email starkey@dr.com, or go online to imaginehealingtherapy.com, groupworkx.com, or wellnessempowerment.org.
Everlasting Glow:
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(Q-N-A patient - Results after 1 Microneedling trea tment)
One Louisiana man and his family have grown their interest in preserving a threatened species of alligator snapping turtles into a foundation that cares for and releases hundreds of young turtles back into the wild each year.
Now, thanks to a donation from the Air Products Lake Maurepas Community Fund, the Louisiana Alligator Snapping Turtle Foundation is able to expand the habitat where it hatches and grows these young turtles before they return to Louisiana’s waterways.
Air Products, through its Lake Maurepas Community Fund, has donated $10,000 to the Louisiana Alligator Snapping Turtle Foundation to support efforts to increase the population of the alligator snapping turtle, which is a threatened species.
The Louisiana Alligator Snapping Turtle Foundation breeds alligator snapping turtles and raises them for two years before releasing them into the wild, including the waterways that lead to Lake Maurepas, in hope that they reproduce.
OH,
Preserving Louisiana’s threatened wildlife
Air Products Lake Maurepas Community Fund supports the preservation of the Louisiana Alligator Snapping Turtle.
“Air Products is excited to support the great work of the Louisiana Alligator Snapping Turtle Foundation, which has become a labor of love for Ben Naquin and his family and supporters,” said Danna Leblanc, Commercial Executive Director of Air Products’ Louisiana Clean Energy Complex.
“This donation will help expand the Louisiana Alligator Snapping Turtle Foundation’s work to increase the population and provide the hatchling turtles a larger environment in which to grow before being released into the waterways.”
The donation supports Naquin’s efforts to build a free-flowing system that will pump water from a canal into large pools in a climatecontrolled facility, which will be a friendlier environment for hatchling turtles, increasing their chances of long-term survival by promoting growth before they are released.
“This donation will allow us to greatly expand the work that we are doing to preserve the alligator snapping turtle in Louisiana, and we greatly appreciate Air Products’ support of our conservation efforts,” said Ben Naquin, Executive Director of the Louisiana Alligator Snapping Turtle Foundation.
Air Products supports the communities where it operates through community giving and employee volunteer efforts. In addition to grants through the Air Products Foundation in 2023, the company launched the Air Products Lake Maurepas Community Fund, which plans to contribute $1 million per year to community projects that meet its intended mission during the duration of the operation of the Louisiana Clean Energy Complex, which is expected to be at least 25 years.
The Fund supports parishes bordering Lake Maurepas by supporting needed educational, ecological, and recreational projects, with a focus on Livingston, St. John the Baptist, and Tangipahoa Parishes.
Looking forward, Air Products strives to continue its more than five-decade history of safe and responsible operations in Louisiana, both through its proposed Louisiana Clean Energy Complex currently under development and in future investments. To learn more, visit: Community.CleanEnergyLouisiana.com.
Saturday, Aug. 17
Independence
Treasures TASTES &
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/
David. He and his siblings, Amy and Jason, grew up in a strawberry-farming family.
Gerald graduated from Ponchatoula High School (’86) and earned his BA in Criminal Justice. He served as a Marine Corps Reservist with a one-year deployment overseas during Desert Shield. After 5 years as a shipyard welder and working as a reserve officer with Mandeville Police Department, Gerald began working fulltime with MPD and ultimately rose to become the Mandeville Chief of Police.
When he retired in 2021, Gerald returned to Tangipahoa and was elected Sheriff in November of 2023. He and his wife, Tonia Delatte Sticker, now live in Hammond.
Gerald is the proud father of Justin and Joshua and stepfather of Larilyn, Emma, and Jennie. He has one granddaughter, three grandsons, and a new grandson coming in November. Aside from his family, these are his 5 favorite things…
1
3
Service
Gerald considers service his spiritual gift. From serving his church community as youth leader, to serving his larger community through law enforcement to serving his country as a Marine, his call to service tops the list.
Faith
Raised by a Catholic mother and a Baptist Father, the importance of strong Christian faith has been constant and utterly important in his life. Now a member of Cornerstone Church in Amite, his faith is vital in his life and ranks at the top of his favorite and cherished things.
Festivals
2
As the son of strawberry farmers, he remembers the Strawberry Festival when is was in its infancy and always enjoyed how it brought the community together to celebrate its resources. He now enjoys and has a deep appreciation for all the festivals our diverse parish celebrates.
Outdoor Activities
Golf and fishing are activities Gerald truly enjoys when he can find the time. He admits that it’s hard to be really good at either without dedicating enough time, so he’s resigned to being just “ok” at both, as his new role as Sheriff will take up most of his free time.
4 5
The Beach
Everyone needs down time to relax and decompress. Gerald’s favorite place to do that is operating on island time, on a beach with a book. Alabama and Florida are the typical destinations he tries to visit once or twice each year.
Southern Magnolia Landscape of LA
ARD ARD
Continued
NORTHSHORE MEDIA GROUP NM
We are looking for local business and professional leaders who have achieved success and excellence in their field or shown amazing potential at an early stage of their career. Nominees must be under 40 when nominated and live and work on the Northshore. Beginning on August 1st, Northshore Media Group will be accepting nominations for our 2024 Forty under 40 awards. To nominate someone go to northshoremedia.net and fill out the nomination form. Nominations end September 1st. Winners will be notified in early October and the winners will be featured in our December/January issue of EDGE of the Lake magazine.
