TANGI lifestyles lifestyles
CHRISTMASTIME IS UPON US and our local businesses are eager to help you celebrate! They’re owned by our neighbors and support local families. We hope you’ll consider purchasing art from one of our many talented local artists, clothes from our unique boutiques, or gift cards from a local restaurant and retailers. Consider season passes for the Columbia Theatre or membership to Twin Steeples, Hammond Regional Arts Center, the Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center or Global Wildlife Center. Our community’s self-supportive habits make us strong. Rather than simply clicking the website of a business in another state or country, see if you can get it here first. “Shop Local” may sound trite, but shopping locally, especially during the holiday season, will continue healthy growth of this wonderful place we all call home. Our Northshore Media Group team hopes you’ll all remember to give one of our many great local businesses the chance to earn your holiday spending.
This issue of Tangi Lifestyles highlights some of our local business’ success stories, inspiring work taking place at SLU, and other fun and entertaining stories, including some of our neighbors’ favorite Christmas memories. Our next issues will feature the winners of our 2024 Tangi Lifestyles Readers’ Choice awards. Please take a minute to vote at tangilifestyles.com. It’s simple and quick. The last day to vote is December 8th.
From all of us at Northshore Media Group, we hope you will join us in GIVING THE GIFT OF LOCAL this year, and most importantly, we wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
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
Bethany Beougher
Rebecca Blossman-Ferran
Cindy Nichols
ADVERTISING
For advertising rates, call (985) 345-0060 lifestyles@cwdfm.com
CORRESPONDENCE
200 East Thomas St. Hammond, LA 70401
Northshore Media Group
200 East Thomas St. Hammond, LA 70401
985.345.0060
Calendar submissions and “Seen and Heard” pictures may be emailed to pics@cwdfm.com
December 2024/January 2025 Volume 18, Issue 6 On the Cover:
Gabriel Building Supply is a family-owned, four generational business here in Tangipahoa Parish that has continuously served the public for nearly a century. Learn more about the Gabriel family legacy on page 8.
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 Johnny Chauvin
Photo by Riyen Helg
Pictured left to right Devin Gabriel, Jasmin Wild, and Bob Gabriel.
What's Inside
2025
DECEMBER
12/1 — Amite Christmas Parade And Tree Lighting Downtown Amite • 6 PM
12/1 - 19 — Fine & Functional Hammond Regional Arts Center Wednesday-Friday, noon -6 • hammondarts.org
12/1, 7, 8 — Louisiana Renaissance Festival 46468 River Rd • larf2023.org
12/1 - 31 — Merriest Mile Christmas Light Drive
6 -10p Su-Th | 6p to Midnight Fr & Sa Livingston Parish Fairgrounds • TheMerriestMile.com
12/2 — Springfield Christmas Parade livingstontourism.com
12/5 — Southeastern's Big Band Christmas Concert Columbia Theatre • Hammond • 7 PM • SELU.edu
12/6 — Sitting With Santa Tree Lighting 6-8 PM • ponchatoulachamber.com
12/6 — The Muppet Christmas Carol 7 PM • columbiatheatre.org
12/7 — ARTisTRY Classes - Kids 10 a.m. to Noon (kids) 1-3 p.m. (teens) • www.hammondarts.org
12/7 — 66th Annual Hammond Christmas Parade • 6 - 9 PM SLU's Strawberry Stadium • hammondrotary.com
12/7 - 8 — Tangi Gun Show 1301 NW Central Ave • 9 - 3 • Amite
12/9 — Albany Christmas Parade livingstontourism.com
12/11 — Tangipahoa Professional Womens Organization Luncheon The Oaks Ponchatoula 11:30-1 PM • tangipwo.org
12/12 — Ponchatoula Chamber After hours ponchatoulachamber.com
12/13 - 15 — The Nutcracker 13 &14 - 7p • 15 - 2p • columbiatheatre.org
12/14 — Ponchatoula Christmas Parade 5 PM • ponchatoulachamber.com
12/14 — Toula's Twilight Makers Market 6-9 PM • downtown Ponchatoula
12/14 — ARTisTRY Classes - Adults Hammond Regional Arts Center Adults 10a-1p hammondarts.org
12/15 — Holiday Tour of Homes 2-5 PM • hammondrotary.com
12/28 — Mystic Cruisin Auto N 6th St. Ponchatoula 8a-12p • ponchatoulachamber.com
JANUARY
1/9 — Ponchatoula Chamber After hours ponchatoulachamber.com
1/17-2/27 Human-Art, Surrealist Portraits by Keith Perelli Opening reception 1/17 • Hammond Regional Arts Center Main Gallery 5-8 PM • hammondarts.org
1/17-2/27 Louisiana Gators & Birds by Jackson Hill and Caroline Marshall-Hill Opening reception 1/17 • Hammond Regional Arts Center Mezzanine Gallery 5-8 PM hammondarts.org
1/22 — Tangipahoa Professional Womens Organization Luncheon 11:30-1:00 PM • tangipwo.org
1/25 — Watson's Bird and Sausage Gumbo Cook-Off livingstontourism.com
1/25 — Mystic Cruisin Auto N 6th St. Ponchatoula 8a-12p • ponchatoulachamber.com
ON-GOING EVENTS
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
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 EVERY WEDNESDAY
A Century of
Story by Betsy O’Leary | Photos by Johnny Chauvin
You would be hard-pressed to find many family-owned and operated businesses here in Tangipahoa Parish that have continuously served the public for nearly a century. However, one that stands out is Gabriel Building Supply Company.
Bob Gabriel’s grandfather, Harry J. Gabriel, Sr., founded Gabriel Building Supply in 1926 as a millwork supply store, selling sand and bricks as well as building doors and windows for their customers. In the mid-1950s, Harry Sr.’s son and Bob’s father, Harry J. Gabriel, Jr., took over the day-to-day management of Gabriel Building Supply. Then, in 1973, Bob joined the team, making it a three-generation business.
A TIME FOR EXPANSION
In the early 90s, they realized that the store needed to grow to handle the needs of the public. In 1992, a new storefront was built at 510 West Pine in Ponchatoula. The store includes over four acres of covered storage for lumber and building supplies.
While the Ponchatoula location remains their flagship store, the family sensed a need for a second location in the northern end of the parish. They completed construction on their Amite location at 900 West Oak Street in 2013 to meet that demand. Both locations offer the same full-service care and quality products that their customers have come to expect.
A FOURTH GENERATION
Bob’s two daughters, Jasmin Wild and Devin Gabriel, followed in their father's footsteps by joining the family business. In early 2024, both became part owners, allowing Bob to step back from the day-to-day operations. With a smile and a shrug of his shoulders, Bob commented, “I have been working here for 51 years; it’s time I step back a little and let them do their thing.” To that end, the new generation has turned their focus to the technological end of the business by building a new website for Gabriel’s and rebranding the logo. Bob joked that although they had successfully changed the uniform from blue to grey, he held firm on the fire engine red for the Gabriel trucks!
The family works well by dividing the responsibilities of running the large business. Jasmin prefers to work on IT projects while overseeing the bookkeeping, finances, and accounts payable departments. Devin manages the inventory for both locations and is involved with purchasing, advertising, marketing, and accounts receivable. Bob stays busy buying all the commodities necessary for construction, such as lumber, sheetrock, insulation, and plywood. Bob hopes his daughters will continue to run the family business and eventually pass it along to their children.
ONE BIG FAMILY
The Gabriels stress that they could not have come so far without their crew of longtime employees like Chase Wainwright, who serves as the General Manager of both facilities. When it opened, Chase began running the Amite store and was eventually asked to oversee operations at both locations, which showed successful growth under his leadership. The family credits their dedicated staff with that success, noting that many of their employees retire from Gabriel’s and that most workers wind up there for the long haul.
BUILT ON A STRONG FOUNDATION
For nearly 100 years, Gabriel’s Building Supply has served the community with honesty and integrity. They have remained successful by offering items such as an extensive paint selection, the latest in outdoor cooking, and even expert advice in helping to decide what each project needs. It is safe to say that the Gabriel family knows a thing or two when building a family legacy. Whether you have a weekend DIY project or are a contractor needing lumber for a large build, Gabriels will greet you with a smile when you walk through the door and a heartfelt “thank you” when you leave. The family invites you to stop by and browse today or shop from the convenience of your home at gabrielbuildingsupply.com.
AT ONE THIRTEEN
Join us at one thirteen restaurant for holiday spirits through December 31st and enter a Winter Wonderland like you have never seen in Hammond, America.
Miracle Pop-up is a sensational experience featuring signature holiday cocktails and a bustling Christmas atmosphere. Our team at one thirteen restaurant will be featuring Miracle’s cocktails and merchandise, while presenting holiday delights of our own creation. Not to mention the holiday decor of your dreams!
About our cuisine: New American cuisine blends traditional American ingredients and dishes with complimentary elements of various international cuisines. It is defined by fresh ingredients, creativity, and innovation. Visit us this holiday season for the festive experience of the year!
CONNECT WITH US instagram: @onethirteen.restaurant web: onethirteenrestaurant.com phone: 985-402-3481 address: 113 N Oak Street Hammond, LA
SHOP OUTSIDE THE BOX THIS CHRISTMAS FOR EVERY OCCASION FOR EVERY OCCASION
STYLE STYLE ESSENTIALS ESSENTIALS
ERRY & BRIGH M
The Kent family: Zach, his wife Madeline, Amy, Douglas, Hallie and Collin
Assistant Director for Business Operations and Clery Compliance — Southeastern Louisiana University Police Department
TIFFANY CHAVER EDWARDS
MANDY MAE POCHE Artist and Gallery Owner
JAY PITTMAN Senior Engineer Spangler Engineering, LLC
BRITTANY ELIZABETH HOWES Co-Owner of Ponchatoula’s Strawberry Manor Event Venue
JOEY PIAZZA Agent / Owner
Piazza's Insurance Services
AYLA GUZZARDO Head Coach of Women’s Basketball at Southeastern Louisiana University
— Photos by Joel Treadwell —
NORTHSHORE MEDIA GROUP NM
DR. APRIL KEMP
Interim Department Head of Marketing & Supply Chain Management — College of Business, Southeastern Louisiana University
JEREMY TROULLIET Partner of Pedelahore & Co., LLP
MICHAEL KYLES Principal Hammond High Magnet School
ALLEN WADDELL President of Gateway Ford in Ponchatoula
Gratitude Gratitude A SEASON OF
As the year draws to a close, we would like to take a moment to express our sincere gratitude to our wonderful community. Your support has been key to our success throughout 2024. We are grateful to be part of this vibrant community and we look forward to growing with you in the years to come.
Thank you Tangi for a fantastic year!
Southeastern Louisiana University’s
LIVING LEARNING COMMUNITY
Story by Betsy O’Leary
Enrolling in college is less of a rite of passage to some incoming freshman and more of a personal milestone, as they may be the first ones in their family to enter university. Incoming students face the challenge of the classroom and the stress of acclimating to campus life, which can be overwhelming.
Charity Bryan, Department Head of Kinesiology and Health Studies, and Lindsay Domiano, Department Head of the School of Nursing, work together to make the transition easier for some incoming freshmen entering the healthcare professions.
Bryan noted that this fall semester marks the fourth year of the cohort-based “LLC” program, which stands for the Living Learning Community, co-sponsored by the College of Nursing and Health Sciences and Southeastern University Housing. The program is designed to meet one of the college's strategic goals regarding Interprofessional Practice and Interprofessional Education.
The Health Professions LLC accepts 26 entering freshmen who have already chosen a major in Health and Human Sciences, Kinesiology and Health Studies, or Nursing. Those selected are housed together on the 4th floor of Twelve Oaks, the newest residence hall on campus. “These students receive an immersive introduction to college with academic and social support enhanced by participation in the LLC,” Domiano stated.
The two department heads agree that participation in the LLC brings together a diverse group of people, allowing them to live together and learn their commonalities. The LLC cohorts share basic classes like Biology and English, regardless of having different majors. This gives them immediate access to both an academic and social support system. It also allows the faculty to quickly identify at-risk students and ensure they get the support they need to succeed.
The students get to know their cohort class well through team-building exercises and events over the year, like the end-of-summer swim party at “Mama Domiano’s” house. LLC students also volunteer at Our Daily Bread, teaching them the practical value of giving back to their communities.
Photos by Johnny Chauvin
STATISTICS BEAR OUT SUCCESS
The initial pilot year of the LLC was more about ensuring the students were supported at each step. However, the project leaders got serious about data collection in the second year. Every semester, the freshman LLC students have academically outperformed their non-LLC classmates and received more academic honors. They also had higher retention rates.
LOOKING AHEAD
Domiano is excited about introducing Nursing’s EDGE program, which stands for Early Decision Guaranteed Entry. Qualifying students are guaranteed acceptance into the nursing program when they enter as freshmen. They can remain in Nursing if they maintain a 3.0 GPA and receive a “C” or better in all courses.
The program incentivizes enrolling at Southeastern Louisiana University; EDGE is designed to attract highachieving students to the School of Nursing.
Southeastern Louisiana University has been producing top-notch graduates for the last 100 years. The College of Nursing and Health Sciences Health Professions LLC is proof positive that proactive intervention and community support profoundly affect student success.
JESSICA JEMISON SLU Graduating Senior
Jessica Jemison is a graduating senior majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She was part of the first CNHS Health Professions LLC in 2021. Jessica was recently accepted into Southeastern Louisiana University's CSD (Communication Sciences and Disorders) Graduate program, which she will begin in 2025.
“Being part of the Nursing and Health Sciences LLC allowed me to meet people who have been with me throughout my college journey. The friendships I built during that first year provided me with a support system, both in and out of the classroom, which has been invaluable. Having a close-knit group of people with the same academic goals helped me navigate the challenges of college. Living in a community that fosters personal and academic growth is a huge advantage for any first-year student.”
Experience the peace of mind that comes from knowing your care is in the hands of professionals who live and work where you do. Trust us to put your health first every time, every touch. Visit northoaks.org
Empowered Women Are Changing The World
Bella Cervantes
Lisa Hughes Kat Parker
CARE
Curious about the ins and outs of the Louisiana foster care system? Ask local foster parents Gary Sandifer, Jr., and his wife, Melanie. The couple have fostered an astonishing 21 children in the five-and-a-half years since they opened their home to babies and toddlers in need.
Already the biological parents of a 19-year-old daughter and a set of twins, 17, the Sandifers adopted a daughter, now five, who was a former foster child. They’re also in the process of adopting another 18-month-old girl they have been fostering since birth. Gary is quick to say that their biological kids, who were just 13 and 11 when the family began their foster odyssey, have always had veto power should fostering no longer work for them.
Filling a Need in Southeast Louisiana
The Sandifer’s foster children out of the Covington Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) office, which covers the five parishes of Tangipahoa, St. Tammany, St. Helena, Livingston, and Washington. The Covington office holds the distinction of carrying the highest number of cases in the state. Sadly, most of the cases are related to parental drug abuse, including in utero exposure to methamphetamine. Babies born addicted spend time in the NICU and are sent directly into the foster care system.
Advocates for the Voiceless
The Sandifers go above and beyond to meet the needs of the children they have taken into their care. Their efforts earned them the regional DCFS “Foster Family of the Year” award, as well as the “Angels in Adoption” award from the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI). The latter is given to those who champion causes for foster children, provide services, and facilitate changes in the system, e.g., extending benefits to age 21 for foster kids enrolled in school.
They have received support on Capitol Hill from Senator Cassidy and Congresswoman Letlow. Locally, Louisiana Senator Beth Mizell has intervened on their behalf in specific cases.
Melanie and Gary are passionate about bringing awareness to how long children remain in the system, which is often far longer than the federally mandated 15 months in which the children should achieve permanency of custody. They use every opportunity to talk with local lawmakers, hoping that resolutions can be found with their support. Unfortunately, In the 21 cases of the kids they fostered, only two wound up successfully reunifying with their biological parents, leaving the rest to endure the drawn-out saga of the foster care system.
How You Can Help
Not everyone is cut out to be foster parents, but there are other ways to help those who are. Foster care families have physical needs that come up quickly and without warning. At those times, they reach out to local groups for help. Community support would greatly benefit three local charities dedicated to assisting foster families. All of them have stepped up to help the Sandifer’s foster children whenever needed. The resources these charities offer are vital, and they depend on community support to continue to serve. Individuals can also help by showing up to support foster families for court, sending meals on court dates, and offering babysitting when necessary.
Interested in fostering?
The process begins online at the DCFS website, where you can find an application and information on the program. DCFS has requirements, including an extensive background check and 36 classroom hours.
Above all, Gary and Melanie thank God and their community for their help in fostering needy children. Their journey has made a profound impact on the lives of the children and families that have been in their care. Moving forward, the family is planning to transition to emergency and respite placements as they navigate the change in family dynamics with the adoption of the girls.
Moving Mountain Ministries: Ellen Burford • 985-969-0855 • movingmountainsla.com
Family Village: Shayna Landry • 225-283-6297 • tfvwalker.org
James Samaritan: Kim Bigler • 985-888-9750 • jamessamaritan.org
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Written by Betsy O’Leary | Photos by Johnny Chauvin
Brie Trapani realizes the value of communication. She owns Little Ones, a pediatric speech therapy clinic in Hammond at 2007 Anita Blvd. The new almost 3000-square-foot clinic has been intricately designed for children. From the calming decor to the hands-on play areas, Little Ones specializes in evaluating and treating pediatric speech and language disorders for children as young as 15 months through the high school years.
What Little Ones Does for the Children They Serve Children can be evaluated at Little Ones through a referral from their pediatrician or by their parents, who have concerns about their youngsters not hitting their speech and language milestones.
Speech therapy can benefit a broad spectrum of disorders that include, but are not limited to, the accurate production of speech sounds, the ability to understand spoken language, and the use of vocalizations and gestures to express wants and needs. The therapists at Little Ones also work on fluency-enhancing skills, abnormalities in voice and resonance, social use of language, and implementation of augmentative and alternative communication.
Multiple Ways to Communicate
Trapani, who has a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Southeastern Louisiana University in Communication Sciences and Disorders, explained that speech therapy aims to give a child a functional way to communicate. Although many learn to communicate verbally, others use different forms of expressive language like signing, nonverbal gestures (pointing), and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices like iPads or choice boards. Little Ones’ therapy tailors each treatment plan to the individual child's needs.
What would life be like without the ability to communicate your needs to others?
Trapani acknowledges that early intervention is crucial and that starting therapy when a child is young is the best route to communication success. The therapists at Little Ones can also meet older children's challenges, including higher-level language and literacy difficulties.
How It All Began
Brie grew up in Hammond, where she attended Holy Ghost Catholic School and Saint Thomas Aquinas Catholic High School. She and her husband, Jacob, have been married for nearly ten years. Together, they have a five-year-old daughter, Jacie, and a six-year-old son, Beau. She admits that her love and interest in speech therapy peaked early.
As an early teen, Brie established a relationship with her nextdoor neighbor, who had a young, medically fragile child. His mother often allowed her to assist in daily living activities, including suctioning his tracheostomy tube and assisting in feedings via feeding tube.
Brie states it was an emotional, full-circle moment when she later began working in the Tangipahoa Parish School System and wound up with her former neighbor, now a teenager, on her caseload. She said watching him grow from a nonverbal toddler to a teen communicating through vocalizations, gestures, and use of his AAC device was one of the highlights of her career.
If you have concerns for one of your little ones, Brie encourages you to give her office a call at 985-318-7506. Her best advice is to “evaluate, don’t wait.” Therapy sessions can be handled through insurance or via private pay. Trapani stated that she is always willing to sit down and talk with parents to assist in navigating the evaluation and treatment process. She emphasizes creating rapport with the families she cares for and forming lifelong relationships.
Merry Christmas
WISHING OUR CHERISHED FAMILY A CHRISTMAS FILLED WITH LOVE, LAUGHTER, AND UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS.
When Kelly Wells walked into the Florida Parishes Arena 20 years ago as the new Director, he knew many people saw the just completed facility as just a cow barn. He saw it quite differently.
“My vision from Day One was to assemble a team, build community partners and make the Florida Parishes Arena a major covered outdoor facility that would be the best in the Florida Parishes and one of the best in Louisiana,” said Wells. “Now that I’m retiring, I can look back and say mission accomplished!”
Wells was hired by the late Parish President Gordon Burgess with a simple directive to hit the ground running and make the Arena a successful economic generator for north Tangipahoa Parish and be a destination for events for the agriculture, equestrian, and livestock industry.
“Mr. Burgess said if you want to throw in a Monster Truck Show, that would be okay as well.”
Over the years the footprint of the original structure has grown with more area for horses, cows and campers. Including a multi-purpose Florida Parishes Event Center which was constructed for special events such as banquets, receptions, reunions and so much more.
Today the Arena and Event Center are operational almost 365 days per year. The arena is now recognized on regional and national levels with a reputation of first-class facilities and first-class service.
“During my tenure as Director, I have been blessed to work with two great parish presidents. Mr. Burgess was a joy to work with since his focus was on the agriculture and livestock shows. Our current Parish President Robby Miller is great to work with since he gives me the freedom to run the facility while keeping in mind his vision for the Arena is to serve the community and be an economic impact generator.”
Wells also gives credit to his relationship with the Tangipahoa Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau.
“Then Executive Director Betty Stewart was a tremendous help from the beginning and was always willing and ready to help me market the arena and avoid any political landmines. Today, my dear friend, the TPCVB Executive Director Carla Tate, is always ready to help with marketing ideas and event advice to keep the Arena’s reputation and utilization at full capacity.”
While parish and tourism leadership have been two important cogs in the success of the Arena, Kelly Wells
gives a tremendous amount of credit and admiration to his staff. Wells said they are truly the backbone of the operations.
“I don’t call them my Arena Team. I call them my Arena Family. Prior to coming to the Arena, I worked at a number of quality educational institutions with many fine people, but our people take pride in making each event a unique and memorable experience for the show participants, organizers and spectators. We always receive rave reviews.”
As Kelly Wells begins the transition, he knows the Arena and Event Center will be left in very good hands. Wells said the new director, Lane Taillon, is very familiar with the Arena and Event Center. He said Lane has been working on the campus since he was fifteen years old.
Taillon is also ready for the challenge.
“I am looking forward to continuing to keep our current high standards for the shows we host while still delivering outstanding personal service,” said Taillon. “There are some really big shows and events already planned for 2025 and beyond.
Now that his twenty-year term is coming to end on December 31, Kelly Wells is ready for the next chapter in his life.
“I am going to take a few months to travel with my parents, Carl and Sandra Wells. After that, everyone knows I love Tangipahoa Parish and can’t sit still and do nothing. I’ll see what the future brings and see what kind of mischief I can get into!”
Kelly Wells and staff on cover of Tangi Lifestyles February, 2011.
this season of giving ... We’d like to encourage everyone in Tangipahoa Parish to donate some time to making our community litter-free!
4th Saturday Cleanup Pledge
The fourth Saturday of every month in 2025 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/
JULA OFFICERMeet
Story by Betsy O’Leary
There’s a new member of the Southeastern Louisiana University Police Department — and this one has four legs, or rather, paws, and loves attention.
Southeastern President William S. Wainwright and University Police Chief Michael Beckner recently announced the addition of the first K-9 officer to the university’s police force. Jula, a two-year-old German Shepherd from Poland, is trained to detect explosive devices. She was chosen because of her high drive to perform and non-aggressive personality, which makes her a highly prized asset on campus. Interestingly, Jula’s commands are given and understood in Czech, a language handler, Sgt. Michelle Blanchard was unfamiliar with it before attending a three-week Liberty Hills, Texas training course.
Handler, K-9 Receive Certification
While in Texas, Sgt. Blanchard and Jula trained daily to detect odors associated with military, commercial, or homemade explosives, allowing them to become certified in explosives detection. The trained duo are available to parish agencies that need help, like responding to threats at local high schools. Jula is also routinely used at Louisiana State University to clear the stadium the night before Tigers’ games.
| Photos by Riyen Helg
Strong Bond Between Handler and K-9
To strengthen the existing bond between Sgt. Blanchard and Jula, the pair, not only work together, but they also live together. No other officer can give her commands or treats while on duty. As German Shepherds are working breeds, they are happiest when given jobs to do. Sgt. Blanchard reinforces Jula’s training by putting her through her paces in demonstrations at the university. A working K-9 officer dedicates seven to nine years of their life to the job. After that, they are officially retired and will live the rest of their lives with their beloved handlers.
Benefits Outweigh the Costs of K-9 Officer
Buying and training an explosive-detecting dog is expensive. While Chief Beckner states that grants are available, the waiting list is quite long. Last year, the university earmarked funds in its budget to acquire its new four-legged officer. Jula is present at all SLU events and is the most in-demand officer on the university police force. When she is working, Jula’s full attention is focused on Sgt. Blanchard and the commands she’s given. But in her downtime, Jula can interact with students and other visitors. She basks in the attention she attracts and loves being petted when not on the job. Jula also helps calm highstress situations simply by being highly socialized and approachable.
Working dogs require special high-protein diets and regular vet exams to keep them in tip-top shape and ready to react to any threats at the university or within the community. Both Chief Beckner and Sgt. Blanchard would like to thank everyone who gave monetary donations for food and veterinary care for Jula at the recent Giving Day at SLU.
The next time you find yourself on campus, be on the lookout for the lovable ball of fur with her toothy grin and incredible nose. Jula may lack opposable thumbs, making it difficult for her to make the “Lion Up” sign, but she certainly makes up for it in SLU spirit!
Air Products is making investments through the Air Products Lake Maurepas Community Fund and other charitable giving that has impacts far beyond the shores of Lake Maurepas and its recreational and commercial fishing and boating communities.
“We are investing in communities along the Northshore, because it’s a critical location where part of the Louisiana Clean Energy Complex will operate. These investments improve the lives of the larger community as well,” said Danna LeBlanc, Commercial Executive Director of the Louisiana Clean Energy Complex. “For example, when we provide funds to a local fire department to purchase additional equipment to support emergency response on the lake, that investment benefits all who live on or use the lake.
For anglers out there, Air Products has made two investments in fish stocking this year: a fish stocking program through Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation for Largemouth Bass, White Crappie and Catfish and one through Recreational Fisheries Research Institute for a Redfish breeding and stocking program.
Air Products recently made a grant to the Southeastern Louisiana University Foundation to fund the Southeastern STEM Scholars program to provide high school students from under served populations around the Lake Maurepas area with meaningful STEM learning experiences. This program has two primary goals: to increase the number of students ready to pursue STEM degrees and to enhance the STEM literacy of the regional population.
“These young people are the future of our great state,” Leblanc said. “And investments in our young people don’t stop there.”
Air Products recently provided grants in the healthcare space to Louisiana Friends Against Childhood Cancer, Ochsner Foundation for the pediatric emergency room, and Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. The Air Products Foundation also contributed to two events at TARC (Teach, Assist, Reach, and Connect) of Hammond: the Very Special Miss Louisiana Pageant and the TARC Tickfaw River Regatta.
“This organization is helping children and adults with disabilities realize their full potential,” she said.
Finally, because everyone likes having fun, Air Products sponsored the Hammond Air Show and the Tangipahoa Parish Fair. “We all have to let our hair down once in a while and enjoy these amazing events in our backyard,” LeBlanc said.
“Whether we are bringing a STEM demonstration into a classroom, connecting a future STEM professional with a new educational opportunity, or investing in welfare, healthcare, and emergency response, we are investing in these communities,” LeBlanc said.
“We’re proud to be able to see the positive impacts we are making across the Northshore.”
Air Products is the only American-owned major industrial gas company in the world, operating in over 50 countries with 23,000 employees. There are 18 operating facilities in Louisiana and 330 employees. The new Louisiana Clean Energy complex will increase the workforce by 50%, adding at least 170 new high-paying jobs with an average salary of $93,000 and creating more than 2,000 construction jobs.
Air Products employees join leadership from Southeastern Louisiana University to present a $260,000 grant to support the SLU STEM Scholars program. Pictured from left to right are SLU STEM Scholars Program Director Dr. Troy Williams; Air Products Government Relations Manager Stanley Bienemy; Air Products Commercial Executive Director Danna LeBlanc; Southeastern Louisiana University President Dr. William S. Wainwright. and Dean of the SLU College of Science and Technology Dr. Daniel McCarthy.
To learn more about the Air Products Lake Maurepas Community Fund and the company’s community giving and volunteer efforts, please visit community.cleanenergylouisiana.com.
Air Products Commercial Executive Director Danna LeBlanc joins the Recreational Fisheries Research Institute (RFRI) team to present a $50,000 check from the Lake Maurepas Community Fund at the group’s RFRI Redfish Brood Stock collection.
Endless Opportunities
Hammond Veterinary Services
As our parish continues to grow, we are looking forward to continuing to serve the veterinary needs for the families in our community.
Tangipahoa Parish is a good place for small business, and we are excited to be part of a vibrant parish. Just as we were made to feel welcome when we opened Hammond Veterinary Services, we extend that same feeling to the families who are new to our area.
We are excited for the future of our business and our parish. We thank Ginger Cangelosi and her team for supporting small businesses.
Dr. Randy Toney, DVM
Dr. Jody Bondurant, DVM
Attorney Rebecca Davis Lee has spent more than a decade working in the Juvenile Court System with Judge Blair Edwards, who was recently elected to the First Circuit Court of Appeal. The appointment has resulted in the need for a special election on March 29, 2025, to elect a District Court Judge in the Juvenile Court for Livingston, St. Helena, and Tangipahoa Parishes.
"As a mother, I know the challenges that families and youth in our community face. I also know that absent intervention, abused and neglected children often become adult criminals or abusers. An experienced judge is crucial to helping children and their families navigate difficult times and emerge stronger through the process."
Rebecca Davis Lee, a resident of Hammond, is the daughter of William "Bill" Davis, the widow of longterm Northshore native David Lee, and the mother of three. Rebecca’s childhood is filled with not only memories of her father Bill’s candy business “Dixie Candy Company,” based out of Hammond but also spending weekends on the Natalbany River at the family camp in Pumpkin Center. Rebecca is excited to recreate her childhood memories of her father throwing full-sized candy bars in the Hammond Christmas Parade with her children by having them participate in the campaign parade trail with her this season.
Rebecca received her law degree from Loyola University College of Law in 2009 and has served for 14 years in Juvenile court, initially with the Office of the Governor and then as a public defender. She utilizes her personal and professional experiences as an in-demand speaker at conferences nationwide.
Throughout her career, she has represented children in need of care and those accused of crimes. "A vast majority of my legal career has centered on family and juvenile law," said Lee, who has handled over 5,000 cases involving juvenile issues and a score of other cases involving family law, complex litigation, and other matters."
Rebecca is a genuine conservative Republican, and she believes that the scourge of multi-generation child abuse and neglect, which ultimately results in high crime and incarceration rates, can be broken by effective leadership on the Juvenile Court bench.
Rebecca currently serves as the defense attorney for the town court in French Settlement and is an Assistant Public Defender for the 21st JDC Juvenile Division. She also maintains a thriving private law practice. As a testament to her commitment to the area's youth, Rebecca's peers have recognized her as a leader in juvenile and family law, and she is a member of the National Association of Counsel for Children (NACC) with a specialty in child welfare.
SCAN TO VIEW WISH LIST
READERS ' CHOICE 20 2 4 C AT EGORIES
A/C & Heating
Accountant
Aesthetician
Apartment Complex
Art Gallery
Attorney/ Law Office
Auto Collision Repair
Auto Dealer — New
Auto Dealer — Used
Auto Parts Store
Auto Service/ Mechanic
Bakery
Bank
Bar (Hangout)
Bar (Sports)
Bar Food
Barber Bartender
Bed & Breakfast
Behavioral Health Service
Best Place To Work
Blinds/Window Treatments
Building Supply/Materials
Campground
Car Wash
CBD Shop
Charity Event
Charity Organization
Childcare/Daycare
Church
Church Pastor/Priest
Cleaning/Custodial Services
Clothing Boutique
Coffee Shop
Computer / IT Service
Consignment/Thrift Store
Contractor – Commercial
Contractor — Electrical
Contractor — Fencing
Contractor — Plumber
Contractor —
Remodeling /Handyman
Contractor — Residential
Contractor — Roofing
Credit Union
Dance Studio
Donuts
Drinks — Bloody Mary
Drinks — Coldest Beer
Drinks — Craft Cocktails
Drinks — Daiquiri
Drinks — Happy Hour
Drinks — Margarita
Drinks — Martini
Dry Cleaner
Event Catering
Event Planner/ Coordinator
Event Venue
Finance Company
Financial Advisor
Fitness Center
Fitness Trainer
Flooring Sales
Florist
Formal Wear
Funeral Home
Furniture Store
Garden Supply
Gift Shop
Golf Cart Sales
Golf Course
Hair Salon
Hair Stylist (Color)
Hair Stylist (Cut)
Hardware Store
High School Coach
High School Teacher
Hotel
Insurance Agent / Agency
Interior Design
Jewelry Store
Kids’ Party Venue
King Cakes
Landscape / Garden Supplies
Lawn / Landscape Service
Lawn Equipment
Sales / Service
Live Entertainment Venue
Local Artist
Local Band
Local News Source
Local Newspaper
Local Radio Personality
Local Radio Station
Manufactured/Modular Homes
Massage Therapist
Meat Market/ Butcher Shop
Medical — Allergist
Medical — Assisted Living/ Nursing
Medical — Audiologist
Medical — Cardiologist
Medical — Chiropractor
Medical — Clinic
Medical — Counselor
Medical — Dentist
Medical — Dermatologist
Medical — Doctor
Medical — Home Health
Medical — Hospice
Medical — Hospital
Medical — Nurse
Medical — Ob/Gyn
Medical — Optometrist
Medical — Orthodontist
Medical — Pain
Management Clinic
Medical — Pediatrician
Medical — Pharmacy
Medical — Physical Therapy
Medical — Skilled Nursing Facility
Medical — Walk In /Urgent Care
Mortgage Lender
Nail Salon
Nail Tech
Notary Service
Paint Supply
Pawn Shop
Pest Control
Pet Boarding Service
Pet Grooming
Photographer
Pool Construction
Pool Sales / Supply
Print Services
Promotional Products
Real Estate Agency
Real Estate Agent
Rental Equipment/Tools
Rental — Party Inflatables
Rental — Party/Tent
Restaurant — Asian
Restaurant — BBQ
Restaurant — Breakfast/ Brunch
Restaurant — Burger
Restaurant — Date Night
Restaurant — Fine Dining
Restaurant —
Healthy Options
Restaurant — Ice Cream
Restaurant — Italian
Restaurant — Kid Friendly
Restaurant — Lunch
Restaurant — Mexican
Restaurant — Patio / Outdoor Dining
Restaurant — Pizza
Restaurant — Po-Boy
Restaurant — Salad
Restaurant — Seafood
Restaurant — Steak
Restaurant — Sushi
Restaurant — Takeout
Restaurant — Wings
Rv Sales/Service
Screenprint/T-Shirts
Seafood Market
Snowball Stand
Spa
Supermarket/Grocery Store
Tangipahoa Festival
Tanning Salon
Tire Service
Title Service — Motor Vehicle
Title Service — Real Estate
Tourist Attraction
Towing Service
Veterinary Service/ Veterinarian
Wine Selection
Yoga Instructor
Yoga Studio
2024 READERS CHOICE AWARDS
The voting is now open for the 2024 Readers Choice Award and votes can be cast by visiting tangilifestyles.com
The deadline to vote is Dec 8.
Each morning across the country and especially in Tangipahoa Parish, small businesses are opening their doors to provide services and goods for the community they serve. They truly are the backbone of the economy and Northshore Media and Tangipahoa Parish Economic Development salute, promote and congratulate the small business owners in the parish.
“Being a small business ourselves, we know the value of serving the community,” said Northshore Media General Manager Brian Shirey. “Our Readers’ Choice Award is a great way to recognize our businesses while letting our readers choose who they feel is the best.”
Last year Northshore Media partnered with Tangipahoa Parish Economic Development for the Readers’ Choice Award.
"This is a natural for us,” said Tangipahoa Economic Development Director Ginger Cangelosi. “We know the importance of supporting, retaining, and helping our businesses prosper in Tangipahoa.
Partnering with the Readers’ Choice Awards is just another way we can show support and help recognize our hardworking business community."
For the businesses that receive the Readers’ Choice award, another reception will be planned in early 2025 in Railroad Park to honor and recognize the Recipients.
“We are excited as our Readers Choice Award continues to grow in popularity. It has been a pleasure to work with Ginger Cangelosi and her team on this project as well as other projects for economic development in Tangipahoa Parish,” said Shirey.
Best of luck to all the small businesses in Tangipahoa Parish as Northshore Media and Tangipahoa Economic Development is ready to assist each business in making 2025 a successful and prosperous year for everyone.
Treasures TASTES &
1
SHOP LOCAL AND CRUSH IT THIS CHRISTMAS!
Hammond Florist 115 W. Thomas St. Downtown Hammond 985.345.1313
2 TOAST THE SEASON Crescent Bar 110 W. Thomas St.
Downtown Hammond 985.345.7636
3 STAY HEALTHY THIS SEASON! 445 Nutrition 44354 LA-445 Ste. D Robert (985) 348-1345
4
hiking, hunting, and all things nature was his forte. With 24 years of military background, 8 of which were actively served with the National Guard, Josh traveled quite a bit. It wasn’t until September of 2010 that Josh had made the long term move to the south, when he was offered a job at NASA’s Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. Starting out in Diamondhead, MS, Josh met his wife Felicia, a Springfield native. The couple settled in Ponchatoula in 2011, where they still reside today. The Burns have three children; Emily Johnson, Jonathan Johnson, and Aiden Burns.
What started out as a “kitchen table hobby” for Josh has turned into his full-fledged business as Apocalypse Sports and Indoor Gun Range. Josh’s passion for shooting as well as gun education and training is what drives him to continue expanding the limits of Apocalypse Sports. Now you can’t have all work and no play, check out Josh’s 5 favorite things….
The Great Outdoors:
From a young age, Josh always enjoyed hiking, hunting, and fishing with his dad and brother in Montana’s environment. While he still enjoys all of these in our wonderful Louisiana habitat, making his way back home to backpack the same woods he once “lived” in still brings him joy.
Boating Down the River:
Being on the water brings in the peace, provides a sanity reset, and is simply pure bliss.
His Own Gun Range:
The indoor range at Apocalypse Sports' most popular customer is Josh himself! He admits that he utilizes the range at least 2-3 times a week!
Traveling and Diving Adventures:
Traveling with the family is something Josh looks forward to. His favorite spot is Roatan Island where the family takes in the beauty of the island as well as the opportunity to dive into the surrounding ocean and explore!
FOOOOOOOD:
Foodie alert here! Josh admits that the thing he looks forward to the most is eating GOOD food! His go to place is Tope La in Downtown Hammond, and his go to meals are steak or pasta!
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.
ChristmasMEMORIES
What is your favorite Childhood Gift or Memory?
My best Christmas was when my family traveled to New York City for the first time. The city was beautifully decorated, and despite the cold, we enjoyed exploring spots like Rockefeller Center, Central Park and 911. Being together in such a lively place made it an unforgettable holiday.
— Pamela White
My favorite Christmas present was an orange Kitchen Aid mixer from my aunt! I love baking and still use it to this day!
— Jessica Wong
My favorite part of Christmas is getting to spend extra time with our family. We enjoy going to church and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. We also like to get together and cook good food and watch National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation! — Nick Mendez
When I made Santa's footprints all around the tree with snow boots and baking flour. The look on my children's faces was priceless when they woke up the next morning. The only bad part was the fact that my wife, a.k.a. Mrs. Claus, made me clean up the mess that I made. — Mike Conlin
My most memorable moments with Christmas as a kid has to be sneaking around my mom's video camera trying to peak in the gifts. It wasn’t until later I realized it wasn’t on until Christmas morning! — Ayla Guzzardo
The Christmas when I got my first PlayStation with Crash Badaqout! I think I got a Mongoose Huffy bike with pegs that year too!
— Rae Wheat
My favorite Christmas was when my mom was living, and all my family came over to play games and have fun! We really enjoyed this!
— Pete Clark
One of my most cherished childhood memories was when my family from Mexico came to visit for the first time when I was 10. We celebrated Christmas with a huge family party at my uncle David Delgado's house, who always made Christmas special for us.
—Denisse Delgado
(1943 – 2024)
A LOUISIANA COACHING LEGEND WHO LEFT HIS MARK…
Written by Northshore Media Team
If you knew him, you loved him. One of the most successful high school football coaches in Louisiana, Charles Baglio, better known as Coach Bags, was a devout Catholic and living proof of what it takes to be successful in the game of football and life. His favorites were spending time with family, playing golf, going to the casino, and attending sporting events. His wife of 40 years, five children, nine grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren were his pride and joy.
Coach Bags was a 1967 Southeastern grad who spent 34 years on the sideline at Independence High School, 22 as head coach. His success on the sidelines earned him a place in the LHSAA and the NHSACA Halls of Fame. He co-founded the LFCA, played an integral part in shaping the LHSCA, and served as LHSCA President on the LHSAA Executive Committee.
In 2002, he joined the LSU Football staff under Coach Nick Saban to serve as the university’s high school liaison and was part of three national championship teams under Saban, Les Miles, and Ed Orgeron.
“Some knew him as Charles; others Charlie. His players and students knew him as Coach Bags, and his colleagues and other coaches knew him as Bags and Brim,” shared long-time friend B.J. Guzzardo. “He taught me the game of football and about life. From coaching me in the 7th and 8th grades to giving me my first coaching job, he was my confidante and always listened and offered honest advice. Besides my dad, Brim was my life's single most important man.”
Eldest granddaughter Candice Carona Sledge, better known as “Sis” to him, shared this about her grandfather. “Although his 205-69 was indeed impressive, it was the life lessons he taught so many along the way that are so priceless. He treated everyone equally and would literally give you the shirt off of his back if he needed to. And I don’t know if we could ever tally up all the rides he gave his players to and from practice in the back of his old blue F150 truck through the years.”
“He coached with passion and expected 100% from everyone, but his legacy went beyond the field. He wrote in all capital letters and spoke that way, too,” she continued. “He taught us always to be proud of who we are.” Candice also recalls him telling her that he could get more done in one phone call than most could get done in a 40-hour workweek. And she said, “You know what? He could.”
Independence alum Robin Abrams stated, “I was humbled to be the Chairman of the 2024 Sicilian Festival, where we celebrated Coach Bags as the Grand Marshal. As a former student, I can attest to his dedication to all he taught and interacted with. His positive attitude and influence have had a lasting impact on my life and so many others.”
“I will miss our daily conversations ending with him telling me, ‘Call me later,’” says long-time friend and colleague Coach Greg Marten. “It’s a painful loss for our family, but his legacy will live forever.”
Coach, like Sis said, you were a gift. We’re all better for knowing you and learning from the lessons you taught us. You truly made a difference.
Rest in Peace, Coach Bags.
Continued on next page
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“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given ... and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Isaiah 9:6
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