Tangi Lifestyles Oct/Nov 2020

Throughout my 18 years of experience practicing both civil and criminal law in the courtrooms of the 21st JDC, I’ve handled just about every type of case that would come before a district court judge. If elected, I will use the knowledge and skills I’ve obtained to treat every case and each individual with respect, dignity, and fairness”.”

~ William Dykes

MOST EXPERIENCED CANDIDATE

18 Years of Actual Courtroom Experience

ONLY CANDIDATE with extensive experience practicing both CIVIL & CRIMINAL law.

ONLY CANDIDATE who resides in Tangipahoa Parish.

A HARD-WORKING, DOWN-TO-EARTH

FAMILY MAN with CHRISTIAN and CONSERVATIVE values.

VOTE NOV 3RD

Early Voting Oct. 16 - 27 TUESDAY

WHY SHOULD YOU VOTE FOR WILLIAM?

William is a Conservative Republican. He grew up in Montpelier working on his family’s farm and for their business known as Dykes Feed & Fertilizer. William now lives in Hammond with his wife, Heather, and their two daughters.

William has owned and operated a law practice for the past 18 years where he has represented thousands of clients for all types of civil matters. As an Assistant Public Defender in the 21st JDC for the past 13 years, William has handled thousands of felony cases and has chosen 12-member juries for criminal trials. In addition to working for his practice and as a public defender, William is the magistrate for Springfield and the town attorney for Killian.

Due to William’s upbringing and his extensive experience practicing both civil and criminal law in the courtrooms of the 21st JDC, he has what it takes to be the type of judge that our district needs and deserves.

OPTIMISM! We have finally reached Fall of 2020! This year has been one for the record books and we are happy to see hints of normalcy begin to return. Schools are opening, high school football will begin this month, retail stores and restaurants are allowed to operate at increased capacity, Southeastern students have returned and there’s optimism about the return of fall events such as Ren Fest. All of these happenings give us hope that we’re approaching the end of the trying tunnel we’ve traveled for months now.

We at Northshore Media will continue encourage our listeners and readers to support our local businesses. Please remember as we enter Fall and the holiday season that our local businesses have suffered greatly this year. Having a stronger than normal holiday shopping season could make the difference in their survival. Before you take the easy path of ordering on-line, we hope that you’ll give a local merchant the chance to earn your business.

In closing, we at Northshore Media promise to continue to work to earn your trust. Our radio stations have always and will continue to provide news, weather and sports that impact our local community. This magazine is dedicated to this community and will continue to evolve and improve. This is your magazine, published by folks in your community, for your pleasure. We always welcome ideas for stories and we encourage everyone to send pictures for our Seen and Heard. Let us know how we’re doing by visiting tangilifestyles.com. Let’s have a great Fall.

Shop local and often and stay safe.

985.345.0060

October/November 2020

Volume 14, Issue 5

PUBLISHER

Northshore Broadcasting

MANAGING EDITOR

Angela Blake

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Erin Bolton

Eloise Cottrell

Gabby Cox

Nick Gagliano

Blake Esta

Debi Menasco

Lorraine Weiskopf

Amber Narro

Brian Shirey

D. Emile Stretcher Jr.

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS

Johnny Chauvin

Phillip Colwart

ADVERTISING (985) 345-0060

CORRESPONDENCE

200 East Thomas St. Hammond LA 70401

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

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

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

Photo by Johnny Chauvin

Photo by Phillip Colwart

Artwork by Terrance Osborne

OCT SEPT 2020TANGI events

NOVEMBER

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

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

Ponchatoula Farmers’ Arts & Crafts

Outdoor Market 10 E. Pine, Ponchatoula • 985.386.9580 Ponchatoulacountrymarket.org Fri. 9 am - 5 pm • Sat. 10 am - 5 pm

OCTOBER

OCT 2 - 6 - TANGIPAHOA FAIR

400 Reid Ave., Amite, LA 985.474.5424 • www.tangifair.org

OCT 8 - PONCHATOULA BUSINESS EXPO

Le Fleur de Lis Reception Hall, Ponchatoula, LA 6 - 8 PM • 985.386.2536 www.ponchatoulachamber.com

OCT 19- 24 -SLU HOMECOMING AT HOME Paint the Town Green & Gold Downtown Hammond www.dddhammond.com

OCT 22 - WOMEN MEAN BUSINESS VIRTUAL CONFERENCE

Tangipahoa Professional Women's Organization www.tangipw.org

OCT 23 - HAMMOND DDD'S HALLOWEEN PICNIC IN THE PARK Cate Square Park

5 - 7:30 PM • Hammond www.dddhammond.com

OCT 26 -LIVINGSTON PARISH CHAMBER GOLF TOURNAMENT Carter Plantation www.livingstonparishchamber.org

OCT 31 - DAYTIME TRICK-OR-TREAT Holy Ghost Catholic School hgsschool.org 985.345.0977

NOV. 1 - ALL SAINTS DAY FUN RUN

Holy Ghost Catholic School hgsschool.org 985.345.0977

NOV. 6 - 8 - ANTIQUE TRADE DAYS & ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR

Downtown Commuter Parking Lot, SE

Railroad Ave., • Fri – Sun 9 AM – 5 PM

Billie Laird 985.386.2536 www.ponchatoulachamber.com

NOV 13- LIV2LEAD

Movie Tavern, Juban Crossing 8 am - Noon www.livingstonparishchamber.org

NOV 13-14 - JOLLY JINGLES MARKET SLU Pennington Center 9 am - 4 pm

D’Ann Davis 985.789.7586 join@jaofhammond.com

NOV 13- LIV2LEAD

Movie Tavern, Juban Crossing 3 pm - 7 pm

www.livingstonparishchamber.org

NOV. 20 - PICNIC IN THE PARK Cate Square Park 5 - 7:30 PM • Hammond www.dddhammond.com

NOV 28 - SHOP SMALL SATURDAY 2 W Thomas St, Hammond Chelsea Tallo 985.277.568 www.dddHammond.com

NOV 28 - SHOP SMALL SATURDAY

Downtown Ponchatoula Ponchatoula Chamber of Commerce 985.386.2536 • www. ponchatoulachamber.com

AC/Heating

Apartment Complex

Attorney

Auto Dealer

Auto Service/Mechanic

Bakery

Bank

Bar

Bar Food

Bartender

Best Place to Work

Boutique

Building Materials

Car Wash

Charity Event

Coffee Shop

Consignment Store

Contractor - Commercial

Construction

Contractor - Remodeling

Contractor - Residential

Construction

Credit Union

Dance Studio

Donuts

Drinks - Bloody Mary

Drinks - Cold Beer

Drinks - Margarita

Dry Cleaner

Event Planner/Coordinator

Event Venue

Festival

Financial Advisor

Fitness Center

Florist

Furniture

Gift Shop

Hair Salon

Hair Stylist

Hardware Store

Insurance Agent

Jewelry Store

Kids’ Party Venue

Landscape Service

Live Entertainment Venue

Local Artist

Local Band

Local Newspaper

Local Radio Station

Massage Therapist

Meat Market/Butcher Shop

Medical - Chiropractor

Medical - Clinic

Medical - Doctor

Medical - Dentist

Medical - Dermatologist

Medical - Pediatrician

Medical - Pharmacist

Medical - Pharmacy

Medical - Physical Therapy

Medical - Skilled Nursing Facility

Mortgage Lender

Pet Groomer

Photographer

Paint Supply

Plumber

Pool Store

Print Service

Radio Personality

Real Estate Agency

Real Estate Agent

Reception Hall/Catering

Restaurant - Asian

Restaurant - BBQ

Restaurant - Breakfast/Brunch

Restaurant - Burger

Restaurant - Date Night

Restaurant - Fine Dining

Restaurant - Healthy Options

Restaurant - Kid-Friendly

Restaurant - Ice Cream

Restaurant - Lunch

Restaurant - Mexican

Restaurant - Pizza

Restaurant - Po-Boy

Restaurant - Salad

Restaurant - Seafood

Restaurant - Steak

Restaurant - Takeout

Restaurant - Wings

Roofing Company

SnoBall Stand

Spa

Tire Service

Title Company

Veteraniarian

Supermarket/Grocery Store

• Instituted

• Fully supports the Second

• Never asked for a tax to fund courtroom operations.

• Created offices in Ponchatoula and Hammond for easier court-services access.

the Judge Grace Bennett Gasaway Campaign Committee. Andrew Gasaway, Chairman and Donna Fugarino Smith, Treasurer

For the LOVE ITALY

It all started with a trip to the museum.

Written by Nick Gagliano

In the 1980’s the Little Italy Festival was a must-see festival with great Italian food, Sicilian music and visiting with friends I grew up with on the Red Hill in Independence. Every time I attended the festival, I always made it a point to visit the Sicilian Museum in the old Mater Dolorosa Church. As a third generation Sicilian, I craved to learn more about our Sicilian culture and our family’s history.

Fast forward 20 years to the 2000’s.

After another trip to the museum, I was meeting with then Tangipahoa Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Executive Director Betty Stewart. We were talking about the potential of the Sicilian Museum and the many photos and exhibits that were on display. However, the old church building was not climate controlled and many repairs were needed. She felt the passionate volunteers needed some help with the museum to get it in shape. She asked me to help.

A meeting was arranged with Fr. Paul McDuffie, the pastor of Mater Dolorosa Church, and the late Independence Mayor Philip Domiano. I proposed Mater Dolorosa enter into a long-term lease with the Town of Independence for the use of the old church building as the permanent home for the Sicilian Museum.

Independence Italian Cultural Museum

“I thought this was a win-win proposition,” said Fr. McDuffie. “The church parish was not in a financial position to spend money on the necessary repairs of the old church and Mayor Domiano committed to do the best he could to help with the renovations.”

A long-term lease was signed with the stipulation that the building could only be used for a Sicilian-Italian museum. If the museum ever ceased to exist, then the building would revert back to the control of Mater Dolorosa Parish.

Since then, all the mayors of Independence, Mayors Domiano, Michael Ragusa, Angelo Mannino and current Mayor Jim Paine have all taken a special interest in the continuing improvement of the Independence Italian Cultural Museum.

Today, the museum is a showcase for local Sicilian history and visitors can spend hours examining local Sicilian artifacts, family photos and authentic Sicilian traditions. The museum is climate controlled which also helps preserve the materials on display.

“Our museum board and volunteers make the museum work and they have brought the museum to a higher level,” said volunteer Donnie Orlando. “We are always adding exhibits and more photos as families from the community want to share their history with others.”

Orlando also said renovations are constantly happening in and around the museum. “We are always working to improve the museum building itself, but we also have a number of skilled craftsmen, like Larry Calames, who work on old, donated pieces of equipment and bring them back of life.”

Their handywork can be seen in the renovations of an original Sicilian fruit cart, a clay oven and the statue of St. Joseph, who is the patron saint of Sicily.

Fast Forward to 2012.

Knowing I always would visit the Sicilian Heritage Museum and wanting to one day visit Sicily, my wife, Dana, surprised me with a 50th birthday cruise to Greece, Italy, Malta and Sicily. The whole trip was centered around our visit to Sicily. We were only to be in Palermo, Sicily for one day, so she arranged for a driver/ interpreter to pick us up at the dock and travel to Villa Franca, Sicily.

In the museum, there is a booklet with each page featuring many of the original Sicilian settlers in Independence and their family’s background. The Gagliano page featured my grandfather, my great grandfather, my great grandmother, and my grandfather’s brother and sisters. My grandfather said we were from Balla Franca Sicily. Dana could not find this village, so we took a chance by going to Villa Franca.

The mayor, police chief, registrar, interpreter, Dana and myself all hugged like we were family. Which, in a crazy way, we were.

We left Palermo on a Saturday morning for the 127 kilometers (78 mile) two-hour trip. Basically, you head south from Palermo, when you get to the Mediterranean Sea you take a left and then go up the hillside to Villa Franca.

When we arrived, we walked in the Municipal Building with our driver/interpreter who was now on the mission with us. The three of us met a man who was doing some paperwork and our driver explained who we were, and we wanted to search their town records for Gagliano birth certificates. The man said come back Monday since they were closed. In a heated Sicilian conversation, we could not understand since we did not speak the language, our driver told the man we were from the United States and our whole trip was to find our family roots in Villa Franca. The man’s entire disposition changed, and he introduced himself as Villa Franca Mayor Domenico Balsamo. Mayor Balsamo called the village registrar and told him to come immediately to the Municipal Building.

As we were waiting, the Mayor invited us to join him across the street at the Bar Del Corso. It was 10:00 am so I told Dana we are either going to have a coffee or a morning cocktail. It was coffee.

The village registrar arrived as well as the Villa Franca Police Chief Mariano D’Angelo. We

searched the records for forty-five minutes and then we found it. My great-grandfather’s birth certificate, Nicolo Gagliano, and my great-great grandfather’s birth certificate and his marriage license, Michael Gagliano.

The mayor, police chief, registrar, interpreter, Dana and myself all hugged like we were family. Which, in a crazy way, we were.

Chief D’Angelo hopped in our car and gave us a tour and history of Villa Franca. It is an olive and citrus producing region. We stopped at a local olive oil pressing plant and were offered a five-liter bottle of olive oil and visited the street where some Gagliano’s lived but no one was home.

We finally had to say our Arrivederci and leave the land where my family lived a century ago with the invitation to visit Villa Franca Sicily again.

Fast Forward to 2020.

The Independence Sicilian Heritage Museum continues to grow and expand. Everyone who has Sicilian family members should take the time to visit the museum in Independence. There are a number of interesting, educational and entertaining exhibits and photographs for you and your family to enjoy. And who knows…you may be able to fast forward and visit the land of your ancestors.

Villa Franca, Sicily

Dana Gagliano, Mayor D'Angelo, Nick Gagliano

Vicknair,

Steve Lee, MD

Ann Con, MD

Barrett Johnston, MD

Mohamed Elkersh, MD

Alan Kaye, MD

Hammond Regional Arts Center, in the historic Levy Building, will host Sand Reliefs & Other Works from Oct. 16 - Nov 11. Barbara Tardo’s exhibition will include sand relief sculptures, abstract paintings, and other sculptures as well. These will include never-before-seen works and some which the Regional Arts Center has held in storage.

Guests will view a timeline of Tardo through her works. These works start with her days at Southeastern in the 50s, where she would sing in the residence halls, and continue through her days of travel shaping sand reliefs from river sand. And finally, guests will see her artwork of today, a collection of amazing abstracts created despite her diminishing eyesight.

The Hammond Regional Arts Center exhibit will celebrate details of Tardo’s works and the love and care that goes into each piece. It will mimic her inner personality of love and kindness for those around her and the world of art. Tardo says, “Art you make for you is not something you sell.” Therefore, she doesn't often sell art for a profit, but instead gives her creations away. Sales from this collection will benefit the Hammond Regional Arts Center.

SEEING THROUGH THE ABSTRACT

By D. Emile Stretcher Jr.

Tardo graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University and later returned as a professor at her beloved university. She retired from the art department in 2002. The Hammond Regional Arts Center has featured her work at many shows since 1958. She also has been featured in many different galleries around Louisiana, including the Folsom Art Association.

This exhibition will demonstrate Tardo’s love for the outdoors as she is best known for her abstract works of nature. She often creates a naturalistic piece and then changes it to create an abstract work.

"We are so excited to invite everyone to the opening reception of Barbara Tardo's "Sand Reliefs and Other Works" on Friday, October 16th from 4 - 8 PM. I'm looking forward to celebrating her long career as an artist, alongside friends and community members who admire her, as well as her work, as much as I do. She's been a wonderful friend to the Arts Center for many years, and we are grateful for that. As always, admission to the Hammond Regional Arts Center is free and open to the public."

~ Executive Director, Melissa Griffin

Tardo enjoys the aspect of regrowth. When she creates art, her love of nature gives her a great determination to capture scenes, no matter the circumstances.

Tardo said she was inspired by everyday activities. “In the car, I was basically hanging out the window taking pictures,” she said. She made art from photographs she took in her travels and recreated them in an abstract way. Despite her hardships with failing eyesight that began in her 30s, Tardo has been able to produce stunning works. She jokingly credits her ability to create abstract art to her failing eyesight.

Tardo’s favorite sculpture at the gallery is a mold of two anthills. This is her favorite because she was asked not to show it at the Southeastern gallery because they could be mistaken for breasts. Her spirited, generous, loving, and youthful attitude can be seen through all her works, and over the years, she is thankful to have been featured so many times in the Hammond Regional Arts Center.

Photo (L toR): HRAC Board Member Denise Holly, HRAC Executive Director Melissa Griffin, Artist Barbara Tardo

2

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Hammond Florist 115 W. Thomas St. Downtown Hammond 985.345.1313

3

HOME DECOR

Bayou Booksellers 201 W. Thomas St. # A Downtown Hammond 985.542.1124

With 40 children between them, they’ve truly worked to make the world a better place. Friends Liz and Jan have helped provide advocacy for children, pointed them in the direction of success and nurtured them to safety. They have helped guide children through the process of embracing foster families, and they embrace them as part of their own lives.

Court Appointed Special Advocates ensure children have a new foundation, a safe environment and simply – a chance. Like parents. For some of those children, maybe even better than parents. And CASAs commit to only three hours per month, just 180 minutes that change a life.

Jan and Liz started working as Court Appointed Special Advocates almost a decade ago. Now serving as go-to volunteers, they have become integral parts of the Child Advocacy Services team. They have watched some children return home to healthier situations and even helped with transitions to new forever homes. In all cases, they made an impact far more measurable than seconds ticking away as they clocked volunteer hours.

Jan says when her children grew up, Child Advocacy Services gave her a place to spend her time and make a mark on the world. “I love the children, that’s why I do it,” she said. “I was with “Trish” for seven years until she was adopted by her wonderful family.”

Patricia, a 16-year-old who was 6 when CASA came to her, says Jan was indeed beside her at every step. “It was a really good experience to have as a kid,” she says. Now a junior at Hammond High, Patricia is looking forward to college and majoring in criminal justice.

Patricia and 10-year-old Cassidy share similar stories. Now with her forever family, Cassidy says “only good things” about her CASA Liz. Her new mom and dad can’t echo her appreciation enough.

CASA’s NEW LOCATION – BUILT ON THE FOUNDATION OF LOVE

Written by Amber Narro

Cassidy just experienced her “Gotcha Day,” adopted by Christina and Kevin. Her new dad says that after they adopted their now 16-yearold son as a baby, they worked to adopt another child. It just didn’t work out, and they gave up. But Kevin said God didn’t give up on them, and He led them to Child Advocacy Services … and Cassidy.

Kevin says Cassidy’s CASA Liz is a part of their family now. “Liz told me that during the adoption process that if we had problems, I could call her,” he said. And that he did. Morning or night, he called her during anxious times in the process, and Liz was ready to assist. “She went to bat for us,” he said.

Oftentimes would-be volunteers are nervous to get involved with Child Advocacy Services due to the emotional commitment, but CEO Rob Carlisle says that emotion is the driving force behind volunteers’ success and that training and support are always available.

“What makes Child Advocacy Services so unique is that we have

a full time recruiter and a full time trainer,” says Executive Director Rob Carlisle. “These individuals hold the hands of our volunteers at every step. Every scenario looks different, and volunteers need to be prepared for every hypothetical scenario. We help with that.”

Now in their new location, Carlisle knows the building is beautiful, but the real beauty is what happens within its walls. Carlisle says that CASAs often follow “their children” long after the case is closed. “They ask me how long they will volunteer, and I tell them that’s a great question. It’s really up to the volunteers and the cases.”

Child Advocacy Services now has two buildings under its Hammond umbrella. The new building looks like a home, and it was constructed through a long-term partnership and lease with a local family. It is handicap accessible, and the offices are warm and friendly. With 4,000 square feet, there is plenty of room for training, a full kitchen, and conference and meeting space. There is also a special area for the CASA volunteers. The former main location houses the Children's Advocacy Center and is now remodeled with a child-friendly, age-appropriate and enhanced sensory setting for children disclosing sexual abuse.

“Not only is this building used for children who are victims of abuse, but it also is for children who may have witnessed crimes,” Carlisle said.

Building the new facility was a partnership with the community. “The organization has less than $1,500 invested in the entire project,” Carlisle says. “Grants purchased technology, equipment, furniture and supplies for the new space, and our lease partnership helped protect our future.”

While he knows this building will serve the community for decades to come, Carlisle nods in the way of the volunteers for helping the organization grow and serve.

“People ask us how they do what they do,” Carlisle said. “What these people do is all about love, and we don’t want COVID-19 to change this. We are focusing on safety and access to services. The new building is beautiful, but the true beauty is the work that takes place inside.”

Court Appointed Special Advocates with 16 programs statewide. Training programs are now face-to-face, hybrid and online. Training is thorough and approximately 35 total hours. The time investment is minimal.

The CASA is the consistent person in a child’s life when everything else is in turmoil. Patricia had only one foster family, and Cassidy was with four families before she found her forever home. Case workers also may come and go, but the CASA is the constant force – allowing “their children” to see there is light in the world. They are wanted. They are special. They are protected.

“The system is overwhelmed right now,” Jan says. “We need fosters; we need CASAs. We need everybody right now. Children are very important. Think of the child who is going to bed tonight, and they don’t know what they’ll wake up to. You have three hours a month. Everyone has three hours a month.”

Carlisle says the system can’t work without all its parts moving together. With COVID-19, the system is especially vulnerable to operating without all the necessary parts. Child Advocacy Services is in need of new volunteers.

“Seeing the emotional impact Liz has had on Cassidy, it’s incredible,” says her new adoptive mom Christina. Liz has truly been Cassidy’s rock – the constant that allowed her the consistency and confidence that someone would be there for her.

Liz admits that the court system is challenging and that sometimes, things don’t move as fast or in the direction the CASA thinks is best. But in the long run, everyone works together for the child. And the child needs his or her CASA for support.

“Children are God’s gift, and they are precious,” Jan says. “And every single one of them needs someone out there to advocate for them. We have kids who are waiting …”

When a child visits Child Advocacy Services (CAS), they select a button from a jar. This is a very personal selection because this button represent them. It tells their story. These stories are raw, emotional, and heart wrenching. The button selection may take a long time. They are asked to leave a button to help other children see they are not alone. Like buttons, children come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. And they all need a secure thread to hold them tightly and let them know there is hope.

Rev. Drew Sutton is in his second year at FUMC Hammond after serving in campus ministry at LSU, FUMC Lafayette, and West View UMC in Pittsburgh,Pa. He loves riding bikes, running with his children Willow and Gregory and dreaming up adventures with his wife, Elizabeth.

“Papa, are you tired yet?”

This is one of the many questions my daughter Willow asks me, often, as we run around Southeastern’s campus.

We moved to Hammond, my daughter Willow, wife Elizabeth and not yet born son Gregory, a little over a year ago so that I can serve as pastor of First United Methodist Church.

One aspect, and there are many, of this community that we have fallen in love with is running or biking around campus and downtown.

Since the pandemic, almost every evening, we have been intentional about going for a run or ride for exercise, to see the many folks out doing the same and having a healthy practice of getting away from all the challenges our world has faced even if it’s just for a few minutes.

Willow, as we run, typically peppers me with questions between her bites of grapes or cheerios. In contrast, Gregory just babbles at his age, for which I’m immensely grateful.

“Is that a new road?” she asks seeing the fresh black top on either N. Oak or W. Dakota Street as we make our way around. I have to say ‘yes’ and I immediately know the next question. “How’s it made?”

This then becomes a long form answer detailing the trucks, heavy machinery, the sweepers, and all the workers who removed the old road and laid down a new one. She remembers this process as a

ARE YOU TIRED YET?

Reverend Drew Sutton

First United Methodist Church

number of our runs were paused to watch the work up close several months ago.

What I also remember, and I don’t share with Willow in-between strides is the disruption it caused in our community. These important routes to move around campus to get through town were significantly affected. Waiting in traffic for a single lane to open up. A sole worker with a rotating stop/slow sign granting freedom to those in a hurry.

Each day, we didn’t know how long it might take to get to our destinations.

The new roads, critical to the movement of people around our community, went through a disruptive process for the road to be renewed.

I’ve talked with many in my congregation and in our community, who’ve known not just the disruption of a road resurfacing but of a pandemic, job loss, uncertain futures, fear of health, isolation, and lack of connection. These fears, confusions, and frustrations in a world full of disruptions are amplified with the uncertainty that we’ve known day-to-day, week-to-week, month-to-month.

If only it was as simple as paving a road.

In this time, the passage from 2 Timothy comes to mind. In the first chapter, the Apostle Paul reminds people that within us is the Spirit of God and with this Spirit we have not “a spirit of fear, but of power, of love and of self-discipline.” Other translations will shift self-discipline to self-control, good judgement, or sound mind. In a sense, in the midst of disruptions, we aren’t captured by fear but instead live out faithful lives with good judgement and a sound mind with love at the heart of who we are. A love that has the power to restore roads, restore lives, restore communities amidst great disruptions.

At some point towards the end of our run, Willow always asks me again, “Papa, are you tired yet?” Which inevitably I say, “Yes, I’m getting tired, Willow.” She softly asks another question that I know is coming. “What are we going to do then?”

“We are going to keep going,” I softly respond between strides, breaths, and beads of sweat.

We are all tired of these disruptions. How might we keep going with a spirit of power, of love and sound minds?

QUESTIONS ABOUT Medicare?

LET'S SIT DOWN AND TALK ABOUT IT

By Lorraine Weiskopf

Located in downtown Hammond you’ll find Vantage Health Plan, the only health insurance company in town with an office location where members can visit. The friendly Vantage staff in Hammond is always available to take your call or meet with you personally. In Tangipahoa Parish, the insurance business is largely Medicare-aged members. While there are other options for Medicare in Tangipahoa, Vantage is the most accessible.

Vantage Health Plan’s office in Hammond is staffed by Cherish Daughdrill, business service representative, Lindsey Lloyd, business service representative, and Nikki Smith, office administration. The entire team in the Hammond office is committed to building a positive future for healthcare in Louisiana. They’re working to make healthcare work in Southeast Louisiana, one member at a time.

Cherish Daughdrill optimizes the Vantage experience for local Vantage members and providers. She works to create relationships and shares Vantage’s story with her community. Cherish is originally from Lutcher, Louisiana, but has lived in Tangipahoa Parish for the past eleven years. Her hope for Vantage is that it becomes a household name for her neighbors here, just like it is in its hometown of Monroe.

Lindsey Lloyd works for Vantage as a business service representative in Hammond and Houma, networking and building relationships. Lindsey was born and raised in Hammond and helps community members with specific questions about choosing the health insurance plan that is perfect for them.

Nikki Smith assists with office administration. Nikki coordinates and schedules provider appointments and meetings. If you need assistance or have questions about Vantage, she’s happy to help. Her favorite part of working with the Vantage team is the family atmosphere that applies to both members and coworkers.

All three of these Vantage employees are committed to adding value and growth to Hammond and the surrounding areas.

Vantage offers quality healthcare coverage for individual members through the Health Insurance Marketplace, short-term plans for individuals, and small and large employer groups. Vantage also offers Medicare Advantage plans which include zero-dollar monthly premiums, dental and vision benefits, as well as extra benefits like hearing aids, glasses, and transportation.

No need to worry about a ride to your next wellness visit! Vantage’s transportation benefit program allows members to utilize Vantage-approved one-way nonemergent trips to get to your scheduled medical appointments and exams. Vantage members Odell and Virginia Baugh have used the transportation services and said, “Transportation has been a life saver for us. Neither of us can drive due to our eyesight and transportation is able to get us to all our medical appointments. Vantage has been good to us over the years making sure that all of our needs are met.” Transportation service trips are scheduled at least two business days prior to an appointment date. This service covers up to 50 miles one-way to see a primary care provider and up to 100 miles one-way to see a specialist provider.

Over the next few years, Vantage hopes to increase its presence in the underserved parishes and metro areas around New Orleans to provide trustworthy plans for those seeking high-quality health insurance options. Vantage thanks the Hammond community for allowing them the great honor of working with and getting to know the wonderful people of Southeast Louisiana. For more information, visit VantageMedicare. com or call 985-402-7000.

Nikki Smith, Office Administration

Cherish Daughdrill, Business Service Representative

Lindsey Lloyd, Business Service Representative

CLEANING THE PARISH AND

KICKING BUTTS ALONG THE WAY

By Gabby Cox

As people realize the consequences of their actions, those actions change, and Ginger Tastet is working to reverse some of those consequences in Tangipahoa Parish. As Executive Director of Keep Tangipahoa Beautiful, she’s got some work to do.

“When we talk about curbing litter, it takes two things to make that happen—education and example. Our office goes above and beyond to provide that awareness, and we put our words into action by doing

clean-up events throughout the year. We still have a lot of work to do in this area, but I’m encouraged by the progress we are making.” said Robbie Miller, Parish President.

“There was a time when you could smoke everywhere, and you can no longer do that. There was a time where you didn’t wear seatbelts. So here’s the time that we’re no longer going to litter,” said Tastet.

Tastet leads the Fourth Grade Litter Project in the Tangipahoa School System. Recently halted due to Covid-19, the project will pick back up after schools are allowed guests. Tastet said she will continue to educate children about the importance of keeping the environment clean.

Tastet said, “With my program, I wanted them to learn what recycling is, fourth graders are at the perfect age to absorb an abundance of information before they start to make habits." She explained that stopping litter has to start with young children before anyone else.

The Litter Project is a 10-week lesson that involves teaching children where trash begins and where it is supposed to, ultimately, end up. Tastet explained that she provides numerous activities to enrich young minds concerning how litter affects wildlife and the environment as a whole.

Although the parish funds Tastet’s program, she must work to get further funding in order to provide necessary services. Keep Tangipahoa Parish Beautiful and Keep Louisiana Beautiful provide grant funding for Tastet's projects. In particular, the latest grant will help fund efforts to keep cigarette butts off of the ground. Tastet said that a cigarette butt cleanup will be in the works soon, but in the meantime, she is offering pocket ashtrays as well as ashtrays for businesses upon request.

With the Litter Project and the numerous parish cleanups, there is far more work ahead to keep the parish clean. To schedule a cleanup or volunteer, email Ginger Tastet at gtastet@tangipahoa.org.

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Burns Estate Planning & Wealth Advisors Moving Toward the Future

By Lorraine Weiskopf

Retirement planning requires objectivity and a candid conversation about goals and wishes. The objectivity comes from a trusted advisor, and those at Burns Estate Planning and Wealth Advisors strive to fulfill clients' requests by exploring their personal goals and objectives..

This family-oriented firm is run by locals Ernie Burns and his wife, former Ms. Louisiana, Erin Berglund-Burns. Both are working together to help tailor clients’ retirement plan to their specific

needs. Whether an individual walks into Burns Estate Planning with humble savings or substantial wealth, the firm will build a plan to make retirement as comfortable as possible.

Burns Estate Planning also builds a strong relationship with its clients through estate planning services, where professionals explore each family's specific situation. Annuity & Life Insurance Agent and Certified Estate Planner Erin Berglund-Burns said, “Estate planning is personal. I get to know them and their family's situation personally –the good, the bad, and everything between –when I talk to their family and children, I already have the base of knowing what they're dealing with.”

Ernie Burns has over 25 years of experience in the retirement income planning industry. He started his career in an apartment, making phone calls from Baton Rouge. Burns later moved back to Hammond and was faced with major hardship after the passing of his first wife. Burns said, “I asked God to help me build my company and keep me busy.”

While parenting his son, he also raised his firm, experienced consistent growth in the business, and moved to different locations around Hammond as he needed more space for his growing staff, not to mention more parking spots. He attributes the firm's substantial growth to his television show “Total Retirement” as well as his appearances in many publications and sponsorships with LSU and Southeastern. Ernie Burns makes every effort to provide sound advice to readers, listeners and viewers. He has worked hard to gain the trust of his clients and takes a personal approach to each one.

Burns Estate Planning and Wealth Advisors is located in Hammond on Railroad Avenue. Ernie Burns has no intention of moving the home-based firm anytime soon, and has offices in Baton Rouge, Metairie, Mandeville and Slidell, but he is open to the possibility of expanding to other cities as well as other states.

Consultations are Complimentary. For more information, call 985.345.7114 to sit down and talk about your retirement. Whether the ideal retirement is hunting or fishing in Sportsman’s Paradise or traveling the world, Ernie Burns says his professional staff can help develop a plan for it.

maintaining beauty

During Hectic Times

As a busy mom, wife, and dermatologist, I recognize the challenge of balancing daily life and taking care of one’s self at the same time. Patients frequently ask me about my skincare regimen. My advice is keep it simple! You do not need an elaborate routine to have beautiful skin.

I am a firm believer of the “skincare trinity,” which includes a high quality mineral-based sunscreen, an antioxidant serum, and a retinoid. Here are a few of my current favorites from the wide array offered at QnA Medical Spa.

Dr. Brianna McDaniel American Board Certified Dermatologist

EltaMD UV Elements Tinted SPF 44. This sunscreen contains zinc oxide (a mineral sunscreen that is also a physical UVB blocker) and also has a very flattering universal tint. I use it daily on my face either as my makeup primer or as my tinted moisturizer.

Revision Skincare C+ Correcting Complex 30%. I apply this every morning to help reduce dark spots. Vitamin C is a great antioxidant to absorb the free radicals our skin creates due to UV exposure, which contribute to the aging process.

SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream. Although most retinoids are very irritating to my sensitive skin, AlphaRet is a must have for me! This moisturizing cream combines a retinoid and lactic acid to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and skin tone. The addition of glycolic acid also helps to brighten skin.

There are a variety of quality “skincare trinity” products at QnA which can address your specific skin type and needs. Contact us today for your consultation!

Instant Rejuvenation

MILLAGE RENEWAL

PROVIDES SHERIFF’S OFFICE WITH CRITICAL FUNDING

By Victoria Rocquin

Every ten years, voters have an opportunity to vote to renew the property millage to help fund the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office. The 10 mil property millage is not a new tax, nor is it an increase in taxes. The millage is a renewal of what citizens are currently paying to fund the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office.

The ZERO-TAX-RATE-INCREASE operating millage renewal accounts for 60% of the TPSO Operating Budget. Voters will be able to vote on the renewal on Election Day, which is Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020. Early voting is Oct. 16 – Oct. 27 from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm at the Tangipahoa Parish Registrar of Voters Office in Hammond and Amite. The office will not be open on Sundays.

“The millage pays officers’ salaries. It provides crucial training so officers are prepared to keep our community safe. It also provides specialized equipment for our

deputies to save lives and solve crimes,” Sheriff Daniel Edwards said. “It’s not going for anything frivolous or unnecessary. One of my goals when I took office was to ensure we use all funding we have to the best of our abilities.”

The operating millage also helps secure state and federal grants when matching funds are required.

The TPSO actively makes strides to protect families and engage citizens. One of the many ways they do this is by constantly exploring programs to protect the youngest and most vulnerable members of our community. The TPSO started the Internet Crimes Against Children/Sex Offender Compliance Unit, which has made many arrests and safeguarded our children from predators. They also expanded the Neighborhood Watch Program to over 70 active groups and expanded the D.A.R.E. Program to include 2 certified D.A.R.E. Officers.

The search for improvement isn’t limited to one area, Sheriff Edwards said that crime has gone down in every major category in recent years, and he is always looking to boost efficiency and effectiveness within the Sheriff’s Office.

“We are constantly looking for ways to improve. We have reduced crime in every major category and we have initiated programs

to help get drugs off the streets. I am very proud to have received our re-accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). We’re only the fourth Sheriff’s Office in the state to receive this accreditation.”

The millage renewal will help to continue to provide crucial programs for the Tangipahoa Parish community. These programs includes Car Seat Safety checks to ensure children are safely secured in vehicles, Rape Aggression Defense classes (RAD) which equips women with the knowledge and skills to defend themselves, and training Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE). It also supports programs like the long-running Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) Program which enables youth to make wise decisions about illegal substances and peer pressure, and Operation Angel, a program to help individuals with substance abuse disorder receive help when they’re ready to start a new journey. All of these programs, and many other Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Office’s sponsored programs, operate with the funds from this ten year millage without any increase in taxes for community members.

“This is an important election and I encourage you to get the facts when you are making your decision for the ZERO Tax Rate Increase operating millage renewal,” Sheriff Edwards said.

“Then I know you will see we are using these funds to protect the families and businesses in Tangipahoa Parish.”

ZAC CARAMONTA'S 5 FAVORITE THINGS

Zac and his wife Cari are known locally as the founders of Gnarly Barley Brewing Company. In addition to being a local treasure, this successful brewery has received numerous awards and recognition in the industry since its establishment in 2014. While beer is obviously his favorite thing, we were curious what was behind this passion for brewing. The answer became apparent as Zac shared his 5 favorite things…

Being at Home with Family

Zac’s absolute favorite thing is being at home with Cari and their daughters Stevie (5) and Max (9 mos). “I am happiest when I’m at my home surrounded by my favorite stuff and my favorite people.”

Cooking

Zac cooks for family and friends five to six nights of the week. Just as he experiments to create new beers for the public, he experiments to create culinary delights for family and friends.

Whether it’s learning to cold smoke pastrami or perfecting smoked salmon on his custom “frankenpit”, cooking is among his favorite interests.

Skateboarding

Throughout high school Zac was a starter for Fontainebleau baseball and football teams and he went on to play college baseball. However, a freshman injury forced him to abandon college ball. To fill the void, he found skateboarding. After years of “aggressive” skating and MULTIPLE “slam” injuries, Zac has reluctantly hung up his board. Skateboard culture remains a huge part of his life but he now tries to avoid the stopping at the skate park because he’s found that when he does, he just can’t help pressing limits that he just shouldn’t be pressing anymore.

Fishing

Doesn’t matter if it’s a pond, a river or offshore, Zac loves to wet a line. He doesn’t own a boat, but he considers himself a 'fishing opportunist'. So, when opportunities are presented, he tries his best to partake. Fly fishing, his most recent endeavor, provides a full experience of beautiful mountain hiking and fishing. His daughter Stevie likes to visit with and name the fish when they catch and release.

Designing/Fabricating

Zac started designing things as a child with Legos. That evolved into fabricating via woodwork and welding. Then he began home-brewing beer. This lethal combination of talents and passion led to what we know as Gnarly Barley Brewing Company. Zac not only designed his company’s brewing equipment, he designed a custom home brewery for a local, world class beer judge. That home brewery system was featured in Brew Your Own Magazine as “Drool System of the Month.”

“Not only was I impressed with the striking colors and lively scenes of Terrance’s paintings, but I also found him to be down to earth and humble.” ~ John Exnicios

Exnicios HOT AUGUST NIGHT

Southern charm and elegance recently echoed through the historic Cate House when John Exnicios opened his home for a one-man art show of the works of Terrance Osborne. After many years the amazing 1900s house was once again filled with the sights and sounds of Hammond hospitality.

The very special Hot August Night Art Show came about when John, CEO of the top selling Exnicios Group of Keller Williams Realty Services, along with team agents Allison

Oglesbee and Merri Schneider, were brainstorming ideas to thank their friends and clients. It had been a long, difficult summer. The question was what might bring a smile to people’s faces. John immediately thought of the work of Terrance Osborne. “I felt sure the New Orleans vibes and vibrant colors of Terrance’s work would make people happy,” said John.

John, an art enthusiast, had met Terrance at his New Orleans gallery after he purchased an Osborne painting.

“Not only was I impressed with the striking colors and lively scenes of Terrance’s paintings,” said John, “I also found him to be so down to earth and humble.”

Terrance, a nationally acclaimed artist whose work has been exhibited at various well known venues, visited Hammond as John’s guest and after a day of lunch and sightseeing agreed to stage a show at the Cate House. Once invitations went out there was a buzz of excitment in the air.

“I think people were ready to have a place to get dressed up and go and feel normal,” John said. “Exnicios Hot August Night was our way of saying thank you to our friends and clients for being a part of our group’s success story.”

The bright striking colors of the many New Orleans scenes enchanted the Exnicios guests as they mingled on the wraparound porch, lawn and gathering rooms of the century old Cate House. It was a return to a social scene that many had not enjoyed in previous months. Soft notes of the keyboard played by Andre Nguyen drifted in the air as friends visited and enjoyed food from The Rind and Cookie Bizzness while sipping wine from The Crescent Bar. But it was the artwork that was catching everyone’s attention. J.J. and Jenni O’Neil were so impressed with Terrance’s painting Goddess Within that they immediately purchased it to hang in their own home.

He has hopes of bringing a more permanent art scene to beautiful downtown Hammond. Until then, John and the Exnicios Group will continue to interact with the community through special events. “We truly appreciate the people that we do business with over the course of years, months and days. If Allison Oglesbee, Merri Schneider or myself can help you successfully buy or sell a home or property, please contact us at 985-402-1322.”

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