September-October 2013 Issue of Inside Northside Magazine by Inside Publications

450

HARVEST CUP POLO CLASSIC • NORTHSHORE ON TAP • GUILLET QUINTS • CHAPPAPEELA FARMS

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 VOL. 28, NO. 5

September-October 2013

Vol. 28, No. 5

The community magazine of the northshore, serving St. Tammany and Tangipahoa parishes. Publisher Lori Murphy –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Associate Publisher Poki Hampton Editor Jan Murphy Art Director Brad Growden Contributing Editor Amanda M. Westbrooks Editorial Assistant Lauren Smith Contributors are featured on page 12. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Business Manager Jane Quillin Advertising Account Executives Brenda Breck Poki Hampton Candice Laizer Barbara Roscoe Rebecca Schoen Graphic Designer Jennifer Starkey Interns Susan Broadbridge Betsy Eppling Juliette St. Romain Sasha Steinberg –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For advertising information phone (985) 626-9684 fax (985) 674-7721 email sales@insidenorthside.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Please send items for Inside Scoop to scoop@insidenorthside.com. Photos for Inside Peek, with captions, should be sent to peek@insidenorthside.com. Submit items for Inside Input or Dining Guide to editor@insidenorthside.com. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Contact Inside Northside P.O. Box 9148 Mandeville, LA 70470-9148 phone (985) 626-9684 fax (985) 674-7721 website www.insidenorthside.com Subscriptions 1 Year $18 2 Years $30 email subscriptions@insidenorthside.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

On the cover Artist Garland Robinette –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– INSIDE NORTHSIDE MAGAZINE is published bi-monthly (January, March, May, July, September, November) by M and L Publishing, LLC, PO Box 9148, Mandeville, LA 70470-9148 as a means of communication and information for St. Tamm any and Tangipahoa Parishes, Louisiana. Bulk Postage paid at Mandeville, LA. Copyr ight ©2013 by M and L Publishing, LLC. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written consent of publisher. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and artwork. Inside Northside Magazine is created using the Adobe Creative Suite on Apple Macintosh computers.

Inside Northside

page 118

departments 10 Publisher’s Note 12 Contributors 18 INside Scoop 26 IN the Arts The 2013-2014 Cultural Season. 36 Points of INterest 02 IN Better Health 1 Dr. Kelly Burkenstock. 109 Flourishes Treasures for your pleasure. 114 IN Good Company Andrea Kopfler of Bra La Vie!

contents table of

118 INside Look Pink and purple. 158 Book Report Revenge Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger.

page 40

features

160 IN Love and Marriage Notable northshore weddings.

14 Keeping the Life Force Cover artist Garland Robinette.

163 IN the Spotlight Northshore Debutantes.

35 Happy 25th Anniversary, Monster Mash! Event Chair Susan Tullos. page 71

40 The Journey to a Very Happy House The Brupbacher home. 54 Northshore on Tap The craft beer revolution. 62 The Castle by the River Louisiana’s Old State Capitol.

164 INside Peek 169 IN the Spotlight Covington Bicentennial Celebration. 171 IN the Spotlight Duhon Stand Tall Foundation Scholarship Banquet. 74 IN Great Taste 1 Tailgating Time! 175 INside Dining 181 IN Development TerraBella Village. 185 Ad Directory 186 Last Bite Scott Discon and Scott Williams of The Scotts’ Coffee & Tapas Bar.

71 5 of a Kind The Guillet quintuplets. 76 A Labor of Love The Lirettes of Chappapeela Farms. 80 Surviving Breast Cancer Real stories from real women. 04 Putting Her Lips On 1 Our Alzheimer’s journey with Honey. page 62

Harvest Cu p Polo Classic 2013

after page

130.

medical profile

108 Audubon Fertility & Reproductive Medicine

business profiles

157 Northshore Harbor Center 179 Maison Lafitte September-October 2013 9

1988 by Lori Murphy Ronald Reagan was president, and a postage stamp cost 22 cents. It was the first year that CDs outsold vinyl records and the Tom Cruise–Dustin Hoffman classic Rain Man was bested by The Last Emperor for the Oscar. (I don’t even remember that one!) Also among the things I can’t remember are the car I drove, what my favorite song was and if that was the year we got our cat, Gizmo.

But there are many things I will never forget from 1988. The year

was spent celebrating with friends and family in anticipation of our wedding in October. Rick and I selected the date based on the football schedule for LSU. If you know any other rabid Tiger fans that were married that fall, odds are they share the anniversary with us.

When we met Molly and Rick Smith in 1993, there was an

instant connection. Both Ricks liked to play golf and had actually met each other on several occasions before Molly and I arranged a double date for dinner. We were surprised to discover that five years earlier on the same day and time we both said our “I Dos.” The Smiths in her Kentucky hometown, Rick and I in New Orleans.

It is hard to fathom that 20 years of friendship has flown

by. We have laughed and cried together. I am happy to say that despite the bumps along the way, our joys have outweighed our sorrows, and many of the things we feared never came to pass. On October 22, we will celebrate our silver anniversary together with glasses raised in the wine country.

It is a sterling example of friendship. I cannot imagine a better

way to celebrate our milestone. Happy Anniversary, Rick … and Molly and Rick!

Contributors Caroline Armbruster Caroline Armbruster was born in New Orleans and raised in Mandeville. She received her bachelor’s in history from Southeastern Louisiana University in 2010. Currently a graduate student in LSU’s history department, she will receive a master’s degree this fall before beginning the Ph.D. program there. Though her concentration is in British history, Caroline also enjoys learning about the history of her home state. When she isn’t reading or writing, she enjoys traveling, cooking and spending time with her family and friends.

Susan Broadbridge

Betsy Eppling

Going into her junior year at The University of Southern Mississippi, Susan Broadbridge plans to major in photojournalism with a minor in history. She has a passion for photography and enjoys capturing stories through her camera lens. In her free time, Susan enjoys running, watching football games and spending time with her family and friends. While interning at Inside Northside, she has realized just how much work and dedication goes into publishing a magazine.

Intern Betsy Eppling, who graduated from Mandeville High School in 2011, is now a junior marketing major at LSU. An active member of her sorority, Phi Mu, Betsy works at Posh Unique Boutique in Baton Rouge and Covington. After graduation, she wants to travel internationally and hopes to find a job that she loves—something that involves working with people, helping others and that is just plain fun!

Nora McGunnigle

Juliette St. Romain

Nora McGunnigle is a freelance writer, blogger, craft beer aficionado, event planner and regular columnist for Gambit and Southern Brew News. You can follow her blog at nolabeerblog.com, follow her on Twitter at @noradeirdre and read her column every Tuesday on Blog of New Orleans.

Juliette St. Romain is a junior at St. Scholastica Academy in Covington. In her free time, she enjoys tumbling, hanging out with friends and taking pictures with her Polaroid camera. She attended Savannah College of Art and Design this past summer and studied mixed media and fashion illustration. Juliette is very thankful that she was given the opportunity to intern at Inside Northside under amazing mentors and learn what it takes to create a top-notch publication. She hopes that one day she can create her own teen fashion magazine!

Contributors: David Barfield, Johnny Chauvin, Patrick Currey, Linda Trappey Dautreuil, Rita Powers, Alice Riley, Rebecca Schoen, Terri Schlichenmeyer and Sasha Steinberg. 12

Inside Northside

Keeping the Life Force by Linda Trappey Dautreuil

Cover Artist Garland Robinette

EXAMINING THE ROLE of time in artistic development requires a different way of thinking about art and talent. The most interesting possibilities arise when an individual possesses a spectrum of skills and cultivates them over a lifetime. Garland Robinette is a man comfortable with his abilities who has the confidence to engage at a high level in a number of disciplines, including the visual arts. Anyone who remained on the northshore with a battery-powered radio during and after Hurricane Katrina will recognize Robinette’s voice. The sound became a line connecting us to each other on both sides of Lake Pontchartrain and the rest of Louisiana. Most of us do not know how integral sound and line are in the life of this natural communicator. Robinette knew as a boy that the circumstances of his youth were different from friends his age growing up in a rural area west of New Orleans. The watery landscape, settled by descendants of early Acadians who made a living fishing and hunting, was still isolated in 1943. Diagnosed with asthma, he spent long hours inside because of his health, often foregoing activities in the outdoors that his friends enjoyed. 14

Inside Northside

Like any resourceful child, especially one with an aptitude for music, Robinette spent hours in classical lessons at the urging of his mother, a woman who loved music and found a piano teacher for her son. The sounds and structure of the arrangements seemed to connect to his emotions, and this connection encouraged him to practice and actively listen. Once made, such connections are bound to reverberate in other areas for a young person possessing a range of natural skills. For Robinette, it was an ability to draw. The immediacy of drawing lends itself to spontaneous expression innate in all of us to make pictures as an early form of communication. Robinette speaks with ease and thoughtfulness about the significance of the early paintings depicting animals on cave walls and ceilings in Spain and France. “It is not necessary for us to know exactly why ancient people made paintings from minerals in the earth, drawing detailed images on rock surfaces,” he says. “They still connect with us today. That is the magic we engage in making art.” Robinette is continuously aware of the line connecting us to our ancient past and our desire to >>

Meet the Artists! Inside Northside Cover Artist Garland Robinette Harvest Cup Polo Classic Poster Artist Gretchen Armbruster and the artists of Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2013 Christina Brechtel • Gloria Burns • Mary deSilva • Julia Eves • Phil Galatas • John Goodwynne Hank Holland • Stephanie Karno • Lissa Lee • Anna Rita Miller • Payton Radosta • Skarlett Roa Stephen Rue • Lori Sperier • Laura Scrofani Toppeta • Chuck R. Wright

Champagne Beverage Co. One Bud Place, Madisonville, LA

Thursday, September 19 • 5:30-7:00 p.m. For more information, call 985-626-9684 Music by: Rick Samson Project Thanks to our sponsors: Blue Hickory Barbeque • Jubilee Restaurant & Courtyard • K. Gee’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar • The Lakehouse • Maison Lafitte • Mellow Mushroom The Scotts’ Coffee & Tapas Bar • The Oasis Day Spa • And many more...

make marks that reflect not only what we see, but what we feel. His inclination is to treat the visual arts and music as dual forces, powerful tools for expression and connection. While still young, Robinette moved to Boutte, a community closer to New Orleans. During the Vietnam War he served in the Navy. Upon his return, Robinette experienced a transition that many veterans found difficult. Drawing or doodling was a constant grounding mechanism. With little money and few prospects, he was supporting himself as a janitor when he was approached to fill a position on the news broadcast for WWL television. “If I have learned one thing from the isolation and challenges in my life, it was to grab on to opportunity with both hands before it got away,” Robinette says. “I had no experience when I accepted the position as news anchor, a rather formidable challenge, since any failure would be broadcast to a large audience. I knew that I had returned from war halfway around the world and in four months I was sitting behind the news desk of a television station.” Robinette knew success in this forum would lead to financial independence. What he did not anticipate was that drawings he scribbled in the margins of his scripts would lead to an important commission, placing him before the viewing audience in a different light. The commemorative portrait of Pope John Paul II on his visit to New Orleans in the 1980s introduced Robinette as artist as well as broadcast journalist. On advice from a local art store, he chose pastel as the medium for the portrait, which was well-suited to his temperament. Robinette liked the versatility of mark making in achieving layers of rich pigment. (Mark making 16

Inside Northside

photo courtesy: GARLAND ROBINETTE

means the use of different lines, patterns and textures in an artwork.) Today, the portrait hangs in the collection of the New Orleans Museum of Art along with Robinette’s portrait of Rex on his famous ride. A triumvirate of his most public works is completed with the 2011 Jazz and Heritage Festival Poster based on a portrait of Jimmy Buffett. Not bad for a country boy to find himself with a pope, a king and a music icon as subjects for his art. Today, his paintings hang in private and public collections throughout the United States. Robinette notes that he is mainly self-taught, adding that he attended the New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts for a short time. Some characteristics of his style include spontaneity, fully realized connections between the visual arts and music and the ability to communicate emotion viscerally by means of line, shape and color. He eschews efforts to carefully control and build upon circles, squares and ovals, preferring instead to draw directly guided by intuition. Noted for capturing likeness, Robinette concerns himself with keeping a work in progress emotionally alive. “Artwork cannot go cold, or lose its emotional connection. It is the responsibility of the artist to keep the life force. One does not have to recognize the subject in order to sense the emotional content,” he says. Music, the medium that so clearly initiated emotional connections for Robinette early in life, seems forever entwined with the beat of his paintings and drawings. He tends to favor strong hues and feathery strokes in the initial layers of his compositions. His approach is direct, much like his personality. One is reminded of the early 19th century painter, Gustav Klimt, an artist Robinette references for his use of symbolism in his paintings of women. In the period after the storm, Robinette introduced poignant symbolic content into atmospheric paintings of women. The first, titled Katrina, is a fierce compelling portrayal of the female form, both nurturing and seductive. The figure cradles a small shotgun house in the crook of her arm, glancing over her shoulder. Like the force of nature, she advances. Robinette is an entrepreneur who has traveled around the country working with corporations on management restructuring. His work for WWL radio involves not only communication but also a broad view of current issues. “Artists must take advantage of

the technology available to them now, more than any other time in history. It is of great importance if they hope to create an opportunity to find a collector base or to have their work seen by a larger audience. If they cannot do it themselves, then they must employ someone who can,” Robinette says. “One learns how to persist in the face of adversity. There is nothing like having a public presence to toughen the skin. If you are committed to what you do, whether it is in business or art, you persist.” In his studio, easels hold paintings featuring polo ponies, riders and other participants in equine sports. Robinette lived for a time after the storm in Folsom, where polo riders and horse farms are familiar sites.

“I always wanted to paint horses,” says Robinette about the cover piece. “One afternoon, my agent, Doug Hamley, took me to a polo match, and it was very exciting. Cathy Alba, the subject of the painting, was one of the players that day. As she was riding and playing the very rough sport, I was struck with her beauty and her athletic ability. After the match, I asked her if I could paint her portrait. She agreed, and the rest is history.” Robinette is not only a good conversationalist; he is also generous in discussing his techniques, sharing tips on particular mediums and preferred surfaces. His willingness to experiment is ongoing. In his approach to things he has never tried before, he is undaunted. Robinette uses palette knives in one particular painting rather than the preferred tools he pulls from a neat line of standing brushes. “Knife work is a first for me,” he says. This admission is not a surprise. Like paintings, their makers should be experienced in person. Garland Robinette’s work may be seen at robinettestudios.com. September-October 2013 17

31-Nov 2 Sawdust and Splinters. Saw-Axe-Spur Production Company, Inc. Live competitions, spectator activities, food, arts and crafts, live music, chainsaw-art charity auction. Shirard Gray Estates, 1107 Gray

INSIDE

Cemetery Rd., Magnolia, Miss. Thurs, 11 am-5pm; Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat, 8am-5pm. (601) 876-9635 or

the definitive guide to northshore events and entertainment

sdsfest.com.

For a complete listing of events, please check our website, insidenorthside.com.

September 1-30 Arabella Fine Gifts & Home Décor.

St., 10am-2pm; Sat, 609 N. Columbia St.,

Michael Aram place settings trunk show.

8am-noon. Free. covingtonfarmersmarket.org.

640-7112. facebook.com/CamelliaCityMarket. 7, 14, 21, 28 Mandeville Trailhead

Receive a gift with the purchase of $150 and 15% off all place setting orders. 3902 Hwy.

4, 11, 18, 25 Botox Wednesdays. Dr.

Community Market. 675 Lafitte

22, Mandeville. 727-9787.

Kelly Burkenstock’s Skin.Body.Health, 2040

St., Mandeville. 9am-1pm. Free.

N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville. Limited

mandevilletrailhead.org.

1-30 Culinary Kids. Activities and classes

appointments available. $265/area, $655/

for children and adults. Call or visit the

whole face. 727-7676. skinbodyhealth.com.

website for more information and reservations. 727-5553. culinarykidsNS.com.

7, 14, 21, 28 Sports Injury Screening Clinic. Fairway Medical Hospital, 67252 Industry Lane,

5-7 Susan Lange. Lange will showcase her

Covington. 8am. Free. 373-3464.

beautiful scripture blocks and hand-crafted 1-30 Mandeville City Hall Artist of the

frames. All Wrapped Up, 800 Asbury Dr.,

9, 16, 23, 30 Microderm Mondays. Azure

Month. Art by Abby Sands. Mandeville

Mandeville. 778-2041.

Spa, 2040 N. Cuaseway Blvd., Mandeville.

City Hall, 3101 E. Causeway App. Mon-Fri, 9am-4:30pm. Free. Nancy Clark, 626-3144.

Limited appointments available. $69. 7276-22 The 25th Annual Putnam County

7799. theazurespa.com.

Spelling Bee. Playmakers Theater, 19106 1-30 St. Tammany Parish Hospital

Playmakers Rd., Covington. Fri –Sat, 8pm; Sun,

10 Breast Cancer Survivor Support

Parenting Center. Classes for parents

2pm (except the 8th). Adults, $15; Students,

Group. For anyone currently receiving

and children. Call or visit the website for more

$10. 893-1671 or playmakersinc.com.

treatment or who has completed treatment.

information. 898-4435. stph.org.

Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. 7, 14, 21, 28 Camellia City Market. 333

Tammany Parish Hospital, 1203 S. Tyler

4-28 Covington Farmers Market. Wed,

Erlanger, corner of Second St., across from

St., Covington.7-8:30pm. Free. Jane

Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire

post office. Old Town, Slidell. 8am-noon. Free.

Freudenberger, 276-6832.

I n s i d e N o rt h s i d e

11 Cancer Connection Support Group. For individuals, family members and friends challenged by cancer diagnosis. Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1203 S. Tyler St., Covington. 7-9pm. Free. Jane Freudenberger, 276-6832. 12 A Taste of Fall. Presented by FitFoodie with LIFT Training Studios. An evening of delicious, healthy food. The Scotts’ Coffee and Tapas Bar, 201 Carroll St., Mandeville. 6:30pm. $50/person. Reservations, 257-0707. 13 Christian Serpas. Live at K’Gee’s Restaurant, 2534 Florida St., Mandeville. 7-10pm. 626-0530. kgeesrestaurant.com. 13 Northlake Newcomers Meet and Greet Coffee. Various booths on display. Benedict’s Plantation, 1144 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville. 10am. infonewcomers@aol. com or 792-4264. 14 Madisonville Art Market. Water Street. 10am-4pm. Free. 643-5340. madisonvilleartmarket.com. 14 Mandeville Trailhead Concert Series. The Boogiemen. Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St. 6-8pm. Free. 624-3147 or acasborne@cityofmandeville.com. 14, 28 Hammond Farmers Market. W. Thomas St. and S.W. Railroad Ave., Hammond. 9am-3pm. Terry Lynn Smith, 2775680, ext. 2. dddhammond.com. 15-Oct. 15 Sam’s Four-Week Mini Makeover. Includes four workouts a week, weekly health coaching and a healthy meal provided daily. Lift Training Studios, 3960 Florida St., Mandeville. 727-1540. lifttrainingstudios.com. 18 Northshore Rising Professionals. Sponsored by St. Tammany West Chamber. Homewood Suites by Hilton, 101 Holiday Square, Frontage Rd., Covington. 11:30am-1pm. $12/members (before Sept. 11); $14/members; $16/nonmembers. 2733008. sttammanychamber.org.

September-October 2013 19

18 The Clementine Hunter Collection. First time at Hazelnut. Wine and cheese. Hazelnut Mandeville, 2735 Florida St. 4-7pm. 626-8900. 19 Chamber after Hours. Networking, conversation and business. Hancock/Whitney Bank, 545 W. Pine St., Ponchatoula. 5:307pm. 386-2536. 19 Meet the Artist Party. Cover artist Garland Robinette. Live music and food. Champagne Beverage Co., 1 Bud Place, Madisonville. 5:30-7pm. 626-9684. 20 Free Vein Screening. La Bella Vita Laser and Vein Center, 1431 Ochsner Blvd., Ste. B, Covington. 9am-3pm. Call for an appointment, 892-2950. labellavitavein.com. 20 Rick Samson. Live at K’Gee’s Restaurant, 2534 Florida St., Mandeville. 7-10pm. 6260530. kgeesrestaurant.com. 20 Sunset at the Landing Concert. Columbia Street Landing, 102 N. Columbia St., Covington. 6-9pm. Free. 892-1873. covla.com. Gallery of Divine Providence. Art exhibition, auction and sale to raise money for the mission in Oxkutzcab, Mexico. Vintage Court, 75082 Louisiana 25, Covington. 7-10pm. galleryofdivineprovidence.com. 21 Mandeville Trailhead Concert Series. TBA. Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St. 6-8pm. Free. 624-3147 or acasborne@cityofmandeville.com. 21 One Step Painting Class. Class size limited. Rug Chic, 4240 Louisiana 22, Mandeville. 9am-noon. $125. 674-1070. rugchic.com. 26 Closing of the Bicentennial Time Capsule. The New Leviathan Oriental FoxTrot Orchestra; Covington Trailhead Museum’s 12-minute feature film, Covington: Our Little Old Town; and a recap of bicentennial events. Free. 892-1873. 26 Northshore Rising Professionals 20

I n s i d e N o rt h s i d e

Happy Hour. Sponsored by the St. Tammany West Chamber. Location TBA. 5-7pm. 2733008. sttammanychamber.org. 26 Unleashed Silent Auction Fundraiser. Benefitting the St. Tammany Humane Society. Silent auctions, food and fun. Fleur de Lis Center, 1645 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville. 6:30-9:30pm. Individual tickets, $75; sponsorships available. 892-7387 or stHUMANE.org. 27 Columbia Street Block Party. Covington. 6:30-9:30pm. Free. 892-1873. covla.com. 27 Fall Fishing Tournament. St. Tammany Home Builders Association. $5,000 in cash prizes. Rigolets Marina, 52250 U.S. 90, Slidell. Entry fee: adults, $50; kids under 16, $25. sthba.org/fishing/. 28 Mandeville Trailhead Concert Series. Michael â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Soulmanâ&#x20AC;? Baptiste. Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St. 6-8pm. Free. 6243147 or acasborne@cityofmandeville.com. 28 Slidell Past Masters Club Golf Tournament. Four-man scramble with shotgun start. Proceeds benefit the Slidell Learning Center for dyslexic children. Royal Golf Club, 201 Royal Dr., Slidell. 1pm. Jim Watson, 781-1072 or Al Tidwell, 641-1976. 28 Vietri Event. Fall presentation of Vietri tabletop collection. Refreshments. Hazelnut Mandeville, 2735 Florida St. 4-7pm. 626-8900.

October 1-31 Culinary Kids. Activities and classes for children and adults. Call or visit the website for more information and reservations. 727-5553. culinarykidsNS.com. 1-31 Mandeville City Hall Artist of the Month. Art by Mandeville Community Center senior artists. Mandeville City Hall, 3101 E. Causeway App. Mon-Fri, 9am-4:30pm. Free. Nancy Clark, 626-3144. 1-31 St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center. Classes for parents and children. Call or visit the website for more

September-October 2013 21

Inside Scoop 5 Jazz ’N Roll. Fun, food and music, silent

information. 898-4435. stph.org. 4 Andy Breaux. Live at K’Gee’s Restaurant,

and live auctions. Briggs Assembly Center,

2-5 Mandeville’s Marigny October

2534 Florida St., Mandeville. 7-10pm. 626-

St. Paul’s School, 917 S. Jahncke Ave.,

Feast. Clebrating food, wine and art in the

0530. kgeesrestaurant.com.

Covington. 7pm. Tickets $60/person. 892-

community and the birthday of Bernard de

320, ext. 1270. stpauls.com.

Marigny. Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte

4 Mandeville Trailhead Concert Series.

St. Wed-Thurs, wine dinners; Fri, art stroll,

Mykia Jovan. Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte

5, 12, 19, 26 Camellia City Market. Robert

5:30pm, and free concert, 6pm. Sat, birthday

St. 6-8pm. Free. 624-3147 or

and Front Sts., Slidell. 8am-noon. Free. 640-

celebration, 9am-1pm, and grand tasting,

acasborne@cityofmandeville.com.

7112. facebook.com/CamelliaCityMarket.

3-6pm. mandevilleoctoberfeast.com. 4 Name That Tune…Name That ART. By

5, 12, 19, 26 Mandeville Trailhead

2-30 Covington Farmers Market. Wed,

the Slidell Art League. Art from local artists

Community Market. 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville.

Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire

and the opportunity to meet up-and-coming

9am-1pm. Free. mandevilletrailhead.org.

St., 10am-2pm; Sat, 609 N. Columbia St.,

artists. Music by Christy & The Rascals. Christ

8am-noon. Free. covingtonfarmersmarket.org.

Episcopal Church, 1534 7th St., Slidell. 6-9pm.

5, 12, 19, 26 Sports Injury Screening Clinic.

Single tickets, $25; $40 per couple. 643-4531.

Fairway Medical Hospital, 67252 Industry Lane,

2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Botox Wednesdays. Dr.

Covington. 8am. Free. 373-3464.

Kelly Burkenstock’s Skin.Body.Health, 2040

5 2013 Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville. Limited

Ponchatoula Recreation Park, 19030

7, 14, 21, 28 Microderm Mondays. Azure

appointments available. $265/area, $655/

Ponchatoula Parks Dr. 8am. Preston Meche,

Spa, 2040 N. Cuaseway Blvd., Mandeville.

whole face. 727-7676. skinbodyhealth.com.

(504) 648-4076 or alz.org/walk.

Limited appointments available. $69. 727-7799. theazurespa.com.

3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Rockin’ the Rails

5 Art Market. Covington Trailhead, 419 N.

Concerts. Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New

New Hampshire St. 9am-1pm. 892-8650.

Hampshire St. 5-7:30pm. 892-1873.

8 Bras for a Cause. Women’s Council of Realtors. Food, open bar, music, silent auction

and live auction. Northshore Harbor Center,

ABC-TV. The Lakehouse, 2025 Lakeshore

Northshore Harbor Center, 100 Harbor Center

100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell. 6-9pm.

Dr., Mandeville. 10am. Reservations required

Blvd., Slidell. Oct 12, 10am-5pm; Oct 13,

Tickets, $50 in advance; $60 at the door. Tim

by Oct. 4. 792-4926.

11am-4pm. Free. Linda Tate, 641-2021. sella-brationcraftshow.webs.com.

Richard, 502-1961 or Lisa Frazier, 290-4062. 11-13 Louisiana Seafood Festival. Live 8 Breast Cancer Survivor Support Group.

music on two stages, food and drinks, cooking

12, 26 Hammond Farmers Market.

For anyone currently receiving treatment or

demonstrations, a children’s area, arts and

W. Thomas St. and S.W. Railroad Ave.,

who has completed treatment. Mary Bird

crafts, fish market. Woldenberg Park, 1 Canal

Hammond. 9am-3pm. Terry Lynn Smith, 277-

Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish

St., New Orleans. Oct. 11-12, 11am-9pm;

5680, ext. 2. dddhammond.com.

Hospital, 1203 S. Tyler St., Covington.7-

Oct. 13, 11am-7pm. Free. (504) 214-1886. 16 Key to the Cure Kickoff Gala. Kickoff

8:30pm. Free. Jane Freudenberger, 276-6832. 12 Madisonville Art Market. Water Street,

for charity shopping weekend. Saks Fifth

9 Cancer Connection Support Group.

Madisonville. 10am-4pm. Free. 643-5340.

Avenue New Orleans, 301 Canal St. 6-9pm.

For individuals, family members and friends

madisonvilleartmarket.com.

louisianacancercenter.org.

Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish

12 Mandeville Trailhead Concert Series.

16 Northshore Rising Professionals.

Hospital, 1203 S. Tyler St., Covington.7-9pm.

The Meanies. Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte

St. Tammany West Chamber. Homewood

Free. Jane Freudenberger, 276-6832.

St. 6-8pm. Free. 624-3147 or acasborne@

Suites by Hilton, 101 Holiday Square,

cityofmandeville.com.

Frontage Rd., Covington. 11:30am-1pm.

challenged by cancer diagnosis. Mary Bird

11 Christian Serpas. Live at K’Gee’s

$12/members (before Oct. 9); $14/

Restaurant, 2534 Florida St., Mandeville.

12 One Step Painting Class. Class size

members; $16/nonmembers. 273-3008.

7-10pm. 626-0530. kgeesrestaurant.com.

limited. Rug Chic, 4240 Louisiana 22, Mandeville.

sttammanychamber.org.

9am-noon. $125. 674-1070. rugchic.com. 11 Northlake Newcomers Luncheon. Guest speaker Ed Daniels, director of WGNO

17 You Night Breast Cancer Fashion 12-13 Slidell Newcomers Craft Show.

Show. Live music by Cold Shot. Fleur de Lis

Center, 1645 N Causeway Blvd., Mandeville. Welcome reception, 6pm; runway show, 7:20pm; post party, 8:30-10pm. younight-eorg.eventbrite.com/. 17 Chamber after Hours. Networking, conversation and business. Brandon Thompson Funeral Homes, 12012 U.S. 190, Hammond, La. 5:30-7pm. 386-2536. ponchatoulachamber.com. 17-20 Key to the Cure. Charity shopping weekend to benefit the fight against women’s cancers. Two percent of all sales at Saks Fifth Avenue New Orleans will be donated to the cancer research programs of the Louisiana Cancer Research Consortium. Saks Fifth Avenue New Orleans, 301 Canal St. louisianacancercenter.org. 18 Glitz, Glamour & Giving Gala. United Way of Southeast Louisiana’s St. Tammany Regional Office. Benefits local projects for children and youth and St. Tammany Suicide Prevention Support Program. Dinner, dancing, silent auction, fashion show. Northshore Harbor Center, 100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell. 7pm. Tickets, $65 in advance; $75 at the door. 778-0815. 18 Sunset at the Landing Concert. Columbia Street Landing, 102 N. Columbia St., Covington. 6-9pm. Free. 892-1873. covla.com. 19 2013 Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Audubon Park, 6500 Magazine St., New Orleans. 8am. Preston Meche, (504) 648-4076 or alz.org/walk. 19 Monster Mash. 25th anniversary. New layout, exciting activities, entertainment and more. Benefits The Parenting Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital. Bogue Falaya Park, 213 Park Dr., Covington. 10am-3pm. stph.org. 19 Ponchatoula’s Party in the Pits. IBCAcertified State Championship BBQ cookoff event. More than 50 local and national cooking teams. Memorial Park, Ponchatoula. 10am–5pm. (800) 617-4502. 19 Sallie Knox Hall Art Show. Cocktails provided. All Wrapped Up, 800 Asbury Dr., Mandeville. 5-8pm. 778-2041.

20 Abita Springs Water Festival. Bicycle/ wagon parade, art displays, food, children’s games and music. Abita Springs Trailhead Park, 22049 Main St. Free. Noon-6pm. abitapark.com. 24 Free Vein Screening. La Bella Vita Laser and Vein Center, 1431 Ochsner Blvd., Ste. B, Covington. 9am-3pm. Call for an appointment, 892-2950. labellavitavein.com. 24 Northshore Rising Professionals Happy Hour. St. Tammany West Chamber. Location TBA. 273-3008. sttammanychamber.org. 25 Columbia Street Block Party. Covington. 6:30-9:30pm. Free. 892-1873. covla.com. 26 Boo Fest. Benefitting ACCESS. Children’s trick-or-treating. Lakeview Regional Medical Center, 95 Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington. 10am-3pm. $1/person. 867-3800. lakeviewregional.com. 26 Buddy Walk 2013. Down Syndrome Association of Greater New Orleans. Food, entertainment by the Topcats, games booth. Zephyr’s Stadium parking lot, 6100 Airline Hwy., Metairie, La. 11am-3pm. Registration, 9:30-10:45am. Register at dsagno.org or call Ken, (504) 250-0170. 26 Deo Gratias Benefit for Catholic Seminarians. Hosted by St. Joseph’s Abbey. Dining, entertainment and auction. 6pm. Tickets, $75. Sharon Carraway, 867-2234. sjasc.edu. 26 Trick or Treatin’. Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St. 10am-noon. 892-1873. 27 Sunset Symphony on the Lake: An Evening with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. Live music. Mandeville lakefront. 5pm. 29 Slidell Women’s Health Alliance Luncheon. Free health screenings and lunch. Speaker: Sally Ann Roberts. Northshore Harbor Center, 100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell. Health screenings, 10-11am; lunch, 11:30am. Tickets, $35. Hannah Rucker, 201-1525. September-October 2013 25

by Sasha Steinberg and Amanda M. Westbrooks

INthe Arts The 2013-2014 Cultural Season LPO Conductor Carlos Miguel Prieto

After eight seasons with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, internationally noted Mexican maestro Carlos Miguel Prieto returns to the podium and the northshore this fall—with a new five-year contract in his pocket. Charismatic and much in demand, the 46-yearold conductor has had the opportunity to conduct prestigious orchestras around the globe, but New Orleans holds a special place in his heart. “Of all the places I’ve traveled to, I find that the New Orleans area has such a unique culture,” Prieto explains. “I feel privileged to conduct in an area steeped in diversity— certainly unlike any other place in the world—that has helped shaped music in a significant way.” The northshore has left its own impression on Prieto. He says, “I find that the audience on the northshore is extremely engaged in learning and absorbing as much about the music as possible. This goes beyond just attending the concerts to coming to pre-concert lectures. I constantly receive feedback from northshore patrons that they like to hear the background of the music we play, giving them more context to what they are about to listen to. 26 Inside Northside

“One of the best parts of my job is getting to know patrons in different areas,” Prieto continues. “I’ve had the great opportunity to interact with northshore LPO supporters such as Dick Knight, Scott Chotin and Jan Robert, all of whom serve on our LPO Northshore Advisory Board. These folks, among many others, share a great love for both the LPO and the northshore and are committed to seeing the LPO flourish in that area.” The LPO is expanding its schedule on the northshore this season, with three additional concerts in Hammond and Slidell. “These concerts are part of our Beethoven in Blue Jeans series,” explains Prieto. “It features lighter classics and a casual atmosphere that can be a fun and informative way to interact with the LPO.” A busy family man, Prieto’s home is in Mexico City, but his wife and daughters often travel with him to New Orleans for the cultural season. “We have been coming here for a few years now, so we’ve had the opportunity to see many of the things this great state offers,” he says. “We love going to unique restaurants and trying different cuisine. I’m also a cyclist, so I enjoy biking around the area, especially around Audubon Park. I can’t wait to try the Tammany Trace on the northshore—something I haven’t had the opportunity to do yet, but would like to very soon.” When asked how he feels in front of the orchestra, baton in hand, Prieto is clearly a man in love. “What can I say—I love my job. I have one of the most exhilarating jobs where I can bring my interpretation of music to audiences around the world. There is no greater reward than to hear how the music has touched someone or to hear about how music has transported the listener, sparking emotions like none other—that is the true reward for me.”

THE 2013-2014 CULTURAL SEASON It’s that time of year again! Many cultural organizations begin their season this fall. Use this article as a guide, and be sure to mark your calendar—the sooner, the better!

Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra’s 20132014 northshore season begins Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m. with Don Quixote at First Baptist Church in Covington.

The following performances will also take place at 7:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Covington: Nov. 1, All Saints – Tchaikovsky ‘Pathétique;’ Jan. 10, Gluzman and Sibelius; Feb. 7, Boléro; March 28, Evening at the Opera; and May 23, Beethoven Symphony No. 9. The LPO will present the following three concerts in the Beethoven in Blue Jeans series at Southeastern’s Columbia Theatre in Hammond: Beethoven’s Fifth, Oct. 19 at 7:30 p.m.; Yuletide Celebration, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m.; and Appalachian Spring, March 8 at 7:30 p.m. The same three concerts will be presented at the Slidell Municipal Auditorium Sunday, Oct. 20 at 2:30 p.m.; Dec. 8 at 2:30 p.m.; and March 9 at 2:30 p.m., respectively. For up-to-date information, call (504) 523-6530 or visit lpomusic.com.

New Orleans Ballet Association The New Orleans Ballet Association kicks off its 20132014 season with the North American premiere of Scottish Ballet’s adaptation of Tennessee Williams’ Pulitzer Prize-winning A Streetcar Named Desire, which is recommended for mature audiences and will be performed Oct. 4 at 8 p.m. at the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts. Co-presented with The NOCCA Institute, India Jazz Suites, featuring India’s foremost Kathak dance master Pandit Chitresh Das and Emmy-award winning tap star Jason Samuels Smith, will be performed Nov. 8-9 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 10 at 2 p.m. in the Freda Lupin Memorial Hall at NOCCA. In conjunction with the LPO, Diavolo Dance Theater will perform at the Mahalia Jackson Theater on Jan. 25 at 8 p.m. The Joffrey Ballet will return to the Mahalia on March 29 at 8 p.m. Closing the main-stage season will be Parsons Dance at the Mahalia on May 10 at 8 p.m. for a special NOBAcommissioned world premiere performance that will feature live accompaniment provided by New Orleans jazz musicians. For more information, call (504) 522-099, ext. 201, or visit nobadance.com. >>

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Southern Rep Theatre In partnership with MESA Production Company, Southern Rep Theatre will open its 2013-2014 season at the Contemporary Arts Center of New Orleans with Moisés Kaufman’s 33 Variations, which will run Sept. 11-29. In the play, a music scholar is driven to solve one of classical music’s enduring riddles about Ludwig van Beethoven in a race against time and Lou Gehrig’s disease. Musical accompaniment by a concert pianist. This production is being used as an Educational & Awareness Campaign for The ALS Association of Louisiana/Mississippi Chapter and Team Gleason. Other productions include Pride & Prejudice (dates and locations TBA); the National New Play Network Rolling World Premiere of The Totalitarians Jan. 26-Feb. 23 at the Mid-City Theatre; and The Night of the Iguana March 12-April 6 at Michalopoulos Studio. Southern Rep will also perform Pride & Prejudice April 4-6 and April 11-13 in Fuhrmann Auditorium at the Greater Covington Center. To find out more, call (504) 522-6545 or visit southernrep.com.

New Orleans Opera The New Orleans Opera begins its 2013-2014 season with Marschner’s The Vampire (Der Vampyr) at the Mahalia Jackson Theater on Oct. 11 and 13. Britten’s Noah’s Flood (Noye’s Fludde) will be performed Nov. 15-17 at Trinity Episcopal Church. Audiences of all ages are invited to spend Valentine’s Day and Feb. 16 with Massenet’s Cinderella (Cendrillon) at the Mahalia Jackson Theater. Puccini’s La bohème will close out its 2013-2014 season at the Mahalia Jackson Theater on April 4 and 6. For more information, call (504) 529-3000 or (800) 881-4459 or visit neworleansopera.org. 28

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New Orleans Museum of Art On display through Sept. 15, the Rashaad Newsome: King of Arms exhibit at the New Orleans Museum of Art features the work of renowned video, performance and collage artist Rashaad Newsome in the first solo exhibition in Louisiana of the New Orleans native and Tulane University graduate. NOMA’s Saturday Storyquest presents Edgar Degas! on Sept. 7 at 11:30 a.m. and Music! on Sept. 21 at 11:30 a.m. Family activities are offered after each Storyquest event to encourage museum exploration. On Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., children ages 5-12 can put their creativity to the test by participating in a “Legendary Places!” Studio KIDS! art class. For more information or to register your child, call or email Elise Solomon at (504) 658-4128 or education@noma.org. NOMA’s ninth annual LOVE in the Garden celebration includes dining and dancing under the stars and oaks in the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden on Sept. 27, 7-11 p.m. As part of a partnership between NOMA and the Contemporary Arts

Center of New Orleans, the Edward Burtynsky: Water exhibit of 60, largeformat color photographs will be on view Oct. 5 -Jan. 19 in the CAC’s Lupin Foundation Gallery. For up-to-date information, call (504) 658-4100 or visit to noma.org.

Saenger Theatre For the first time in more than eight years, the newly renovated and restored Saenger Theatre will open its doors to the public this fall. Comedian Jerry Seinfeld kicks off the theatre’s 2013-2014 season on Sept. 27 at 7.p.m. and Sept. 28 at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. A grand opening gala and concert on Oct. 5 stars actress Kristin Chenoweth and the LPO. Other performances include Men of Soul with Jeffrey Osborne, Peabo Bryson, Freddie >> Wynton Marsalis.

September-October 2013 29

Jackson and Howard Hewett on Sept. 29 at 7 p.m.; Band Together: A free community concert with the LPO on Oct. 2 at 10 a.m.; D.L. Hughley and Eddie Griffin on Oct. 4 at 8 p.m.; Brian Regan on Oct. 10 at 7:30 p.m.; A Prairie Home Companion, starring Garrison Keillor and presented by WWNO on Oct. 12 at 5 p.m.; Wynton Marsalis & The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, performing the Abyssinian Mass on Oct. 13 at 7 p.m.; 1964 The Tribute (Beatles tribute) on Nov. 9 at 8 p.m.; Bill Maher on Nov. 16 at 8 p.m; Celtic Thunder on Nov. 17 at 7 p.m.; Joe Bonamassa on Nov. 26 at 8 p.m.; The Irish Tenors Christmas on Dec. 3 at 8 p.m.; Bonnie Raitt on Dec. 6 at 8 p.m.; Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker on Dec. 26 at 8 p.m.; and The Fresh Beat Band on Jan. 10, 2014 at 7 p.m. For performance and ticket information, visit saengernola.com.

Joy Theater The historic Joy Theater will host the following productions as part of its Fall 2013 Theatrical Subscription Series: Beatlemania Now (Sept. 12-15, 19-22, 26-29 and Oct. 3-6), One Funny Mother: I’m

30 Inside Northside

Not Crazy! (Oct. 11-13, 17-20 and 24-27), Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding (Oct. 29-31 and Nov. 1-3), Valentine’s Burlesque (Nov. 7-10, 14-17, 21-24, 28-30 and Dec. 1) and Lightwire: A Very Electric Christmas (Dec. 12-15 and 19-22). For more information about tickets, call (504) 5289569 or visit thejoytheater.com.

Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré opens its 20132014 season Sept. 6-8, 11-15 and 18-21 with Eric Simonson’s Lombardi, based on Pulitzer Prize-winning author David Maraniss’s book, When Pride Still Mattered: A Life of Vince Lombardi. Other productions include Gerome Ragni, James Rado and Galt MacDermot’s electrifying musical, Hair, Nov. 8-10, 13-17 and 20-23; William Gibson’s, Golda’s Balcony, Jan. 24-26, 29-31 and Feb. 1-2, 5-8; Arthur Miller’s masterpiece, Death of a Salesman, May 9-11, 14-18 and 21-24; and Andrew Lloyd Weber’s musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, on July 11-13, 16-20 and 23-26. For more information about upcoming performances or tickets, call (504) 522-2081 or visit lepetittheatre.com.

Fanfare and the Columbia Theatre Now entering its 28th season, Southeastern Louisiana University’s annual October celebration of the arts, humanities and social sciences known as Fanfare will once again showcase music, theater, lectures, films, children’s events, art exhibits and more. On Sept. 19 and 20, Southeastern Opera/Theatre Workshop will provide a sneak peek into this season with It’s Only Life, which was assembled from 20 years’ worth of songs by musical theater songwriter, John Bucchino. Southeastern Theatre’s presentation of Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll House will be in the Vonnie Borden Theatre on Oct. 15-18. Additional Fanfare highlights include the annual Then and Now Lecture Series, art exhibits at Southeastern’s Contemporary Art Gallery and the Art Station in Ponchatoula, the annual Foreign Film Series and a variety of musical recitals, including performances by Southeastern’s Chamber Orchestra and Wind Symphony. The 2013-2014 season of Southeastern’s Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts offers everything from brass bands to a musical comedy

troupe. The season opens Sept. 28 with The Ronnie Kole Trio. Other performances include a Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day concert by the National WWII Museum’s vocal trio, The Victory Belles; The Unexpected Boys, one of the top Four Seasons tribute acts on Nov. 21; Hammond Ballet Company’s The Nutcracker on Dec. 13 and 14; The Hot 8 Brass Band on Jan. 21; Koresh Dance Company on Feb. 16; and musical comedy troupe, Five by Design, on April 10. >>

September-October 2013 31

The LPO will present the following three concerts in the Beethoven in Blue Jeans series at the Columbia Theatre: Beethoven’s Fifth, Oct. 19 at 7:30 p.m.; Yuletide Celebration, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m.; and Appalachian Spring, March 8 at 7:30 p.m. Columbia returns to its movie theater legacy with a series of cinema screenings. The series includes the Opera Series in HD, the Ballet Series in HD, the Film Festival Series and the Concert Film Series. For up-to-date information, contact the administrative office at 543-4366 and southeastern.edu/fanfare for the complete Fanfare schedule.

For more information, call 892-3216, ext. 4, or visit sttammanychamber.org.

Dew Drop Jazz & Social Hall The Dew Drop Jazz & Social Hall’s fall season begins Sept. 13 with a concert by Charmaine Neville and her band from 6:30-9 p.m. Other performances include Deacon John on Sept. 27, 6-9 p.m.; Luther Kent with Trickbag on Oct. 11, 6:30-9 p.m.; on Oct. 25, Tom McDermott with Aurora Nealand, 6:30-7:30 p.m; and New Orleans Jazz Vipers, 8-9:30 p.m.; Sunpie and the LA Sunspots on Nov. 8, 6:30-9 p.m.; John Boutte on Nov. 15, 6:30-9 p.m.; and a Christmas Show from David Torkanowsky on Dec. 13, 6:30-9 p.m. For more information, visit dewdropjazzhall.com.

City of Slidell Cultural Events

Actor Brian Batt.

St. Tammany West Chamber of Commerce Cultural Economy Committee The St. Tammany West Chamber Cultural Economy Committee annual Cultural Economy Luncheon will be Friday, Sept. 20 at the Clarion Inn & Suites Conference Center, 501 N. Hwy. 190 in Covington. This year’s red carpet-themed event will spotlight the film and television industry in our area and feature special guest, Bryan Batt. Attendees will also enjoy music, art and dance performances at the luncheon, which is sponsored this year by the Louisiana Heart Hospital.

Art Exhibits: The Slidell Photography Club exhibit is on display through Sept. 21. Other exhibits include the Mary Christopher exhibit from Oct. 4-Nov. 2 and the Slidell Art League exhibit from Nov. 15-Dec. 20. All exhibits will be in the Slidell Cultural Center at City Hall. Gallery hours are Wednesday – Friday from noon-4 p.m. and Sat., Nov. 2, 9 a.m.-noon. Admission is free. Concerts: This year, Slidell’s popular Bayou Jam Concert Series in Heritage Park will feature Swingaroux on Sept. 29; Witness on Oct. 6; and a Halloween Bash with Vince Vance & the Valiants on Oct. 27. The spring schedule includes Boogie Men on March 30; and Big Al and the Heavyweights on April 27. Also in Heritage Park is the 12th annual Some Enchanted Evening with the LPO on April 5 and April 13. Admission is free. The LPO will also present the following three concerts in the Beethoven in Blue Jeans series at the Slidell

Municipal Auditorium: Beethoven’s Fifth, Oct. 20 at 2:30 p.m.; Yuletide Celebration, Dec. 8 at 2:30 p.m.; and Appalachian Spring, March 9 at 2:30 p.m. Festivals: Slidell’s Christmas Under the Stars festival will take place in Old Towne’s Griffith Park on Dec. 6-8 from 6-9 p.m. The Arts Evening cultural festival in Old Towne Slidell will be held from 5-9 p.m. on March 22. Arts-in-Education: The LPO will present its Early Explorers program at the Slidell Municipal Auditorium on Oct. 10 at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m; Rhythm/Soul NBA (No Bullies Allowed) for students at area schools in November; and The Orchestra Moves, LPO Style on Jan. 15. at the Slidell Municipal Auditorium. For up-to-date information on any of the above events, call the City of Slidell’s Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at 6464375 or visit slidell.la.us.

Slidell Little Theatre The Slidell Little Theatre presentation of Seussical continues Sept. 1 and 6-8. The season also includes Mitch Albom’s Duck Hunter Shoots Angel on Oct. 4-6, 11-13 and 18-20; The Gifts of the Magi on Nov. 29-30, Dec.1, 6-8 and 13-15; Arsenic and Old Lace on Jan. 17-19, 24-26, 31 and Feb. 1-2; Radium Girls March 7-9, 14-16 and 21-23; and Kiss Me, Kate on April 25-27, May 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18. For more information, call 641-0324 or visit slidelllittletheatre.org.

Cutting Edge Theater The Cutting Edge Theater, inside Attractions Salon, will present the rock musical, Rent, on Aug. 30-31, Sept. 6-7 and 13-14. Comedy-drama Steel Magnolias on Sept. 27-28 and Oct. 4-5, 11-12 and 18-19; and The Rocky Horror Picture Show on Oct. 24-26, 31 and Nov. 1-2. >> September-October 2013 33

For more information, call 649-3727 or visit cuttingedgetheater.com.

Fall for Art/St. Tammany Art Association The annual Fall for Art event in downtown Covington will be Saturday, Oct. 12, 6-9 p.m. The free outdoor event features an art stroll, live music, good food and dancing. The Art Association has collaborated with the New Orleans Museum of Art to bring the exhibition Bookmarks, A Selection of Works from the New Orleans Museum of Art to the northshore from Sept. 14-Oct. 26. For more information or to become a sponsor or volunteer, call 892-8650 or email info@sttammanyartassociation.org.

Playmakers Theatre Playmakers, Inc., in Covington will open its 2013-2014 season with The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee from Sept. 6-22. Other performances include Veronicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Room, Nov. 1-17; The Best Little Christmas Pageant Ever, Dec. 13-15; I Hate Hamlet, March 14-30; Almost, Maine, May 9-25; and The King and I, July 11-27. For more information, call 893-1671 or visit playmakersinc.com.

Northlake Performing Arts Society The Northlake Performing Arts Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2013-2014 season opens with The Music of Cole Porter and George Gershwin on Oct. 11-13. Other productions include Celebrating the Art of the Christmas Carol with John Rutter, Dec. 18-22; Starry Night: A Spring Solstice Concert, March 21-23; and Movies in Concert in June. All performances will be held in the Fuhrmann Auditorium at the Greater Covington Center. For more information, call 792-1392, email tickets@npas.info or visit npassingers.org. 34

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by Lauren Smith

“Monster Mash is great!” says second-year Monster Mash chair Susan Tullos. Susan became involved with the event after attending classes at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center in Covington. “I’ve always been involved in activities my kids were doing in and outside of school, so this was just natural,” she says. “It’s such a rewarding project to be involved in.” An annual fundraiser, Monster Mash benefits the Parenting Center, which provides classes for children and parents. Last year, it raised nearly $100,000 for the Center. That’s a big deal for an event that began in the halls of the hospital! This large, festival-style event gives families, friends and children of all ages from the northshore and the greater New Orleans community a unique opportunity to enjoy wholesome holiday fun and a safe alternative to trick-or-treating. Monster Mash has plenty in the way of all-day family activities—the popular Trick-or-Treat Village, live music, games, prizes, arts and crafts, a scavenger hunt and even an inflatable human hamster ball for running around in! Local area restaurants and vendors serve refreshments, snacks and treats for purchase. Nicole Suhre of the St. Tammany Hospital Foundation, says, “It is amazing to think that Monster Mash has been around for 25 years. You know an event has that ‘special something’ for it to flourish the way it has in a small community for this long. It truly has become a beloved community staple on the northshore, and it has been our privilege to provide a safe and fun Halloween event to our guests. Here’s to the next 25 years!” We can’t wait!

photo: THOM AS B. GROW DEN

Don’t miss the 2013 Monster Mash on Oct. 19 at Bogue Falaya Park in Covington. Gates open at 10 a.m.

MASH sy: MONSTER photos courte

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Happy 25th Anniversary, Monster Mash!

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Points of INterest

Women Build Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West will host its 11th annual Women Build event Friday, Sept. 27 through Thursday, Oct. 31 to help three more families achieve their dream of home ownership. Since its inception in 2002, Women Build volunteers and donors have helped build 18 new homes. “Women Build is a program that seeks to encourage women volunteers, without excluding men, to further the home-building mission of Habitat for Humanity STW and positively impact the lives of children by making home ownership a present reality for families,” says Jennifer Messina, development director of Habitat for Humanity STW.

Christopher Brannon, Hammond Chamber Christopher Brannon, president and CEO of the Hammond Chamber of Commerce, recently completed his first year at the Institute for Organization Management, a four-year non-profit leadership training program at the University of Georgia in Athens, Ga. The program educates non-profit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates.

Northshore Academy of Dance Earns World Honors Covington’s Northshore Academy of Dance 36 Inside Northside

traveled to Las Vegas in July for West Coast Dance Explosion’s weeklong competition, which included dance schools from the United States, Canada and Australia. NAD placed 5th worldwide in the Teen Division with The Build Up and 3rd worldwide in the Senior Division with Twice. Five of NAD’s dancers were selected to participate in the Elite Dancer Solo Division, where Shelby Rase placed in the top 15 senior dancers worldwide.

St. Tammany Parish Educators Recognized Principal Leslie Martin of Marigny Elementary School in Mandeville was selected as a regional winner and state finalist in the 2013-2014 Principal of the Year recognition program held by the Louisiana State Department of Education. She was named District Principal of the Year in the Elementary Division earlier this year by the St. Tammany Parish Public School System. The other two district winners were Amy DiCarlo of Little Oak Middle School in Slidell in the Middle School/Junior High Division and Bruce Bundy of Mandeville High School in the High School Division. Teachers of the Year for the coming school year were Kristi Tanguis of Mandeville Elementary School, Laura Gerald of St. Tammany Junior High School, and Diane Shay of Pearl River High School.

Girl Scout Awards Allison Ducote of Covington, along with Hannah Gaudet and Caitlin Moroney of Mandeville, were honored at a ceremony on June 13 at the Governor’s Mansion for earning the Girl Scout Gold Award. The highest award a Girl Scout ages 14 to 17 can

earn, it is received by only a few select Girl Scouts nationwide who plan and execute a community service project that involves a minimum of 80 hours of work. Congratulations to the following individuals who received special recognition from the Girl Scouts Louisiana East: Volunteer Susie O’Mahoney of Mandeville, the Volunteer of Excellence Award; Mary Jane Smith, principal at Honey Island Elementary School in Slidell, the Outstanding Principal Award; and Mandeville volunteer Buddy Anderson, a 30 Years of Service pin.

Southeastern Louisiana University Honored Southeastern Louisiana University’s undergraduate secondary program, which earned three-anda-half out of four possible stars, was named to the Teacher Prep Review’s Honor Roll by the National Council on Teacher Quality. Across the country, NCTQ identified 21 elementary programs (4 percent of those rated) and 84 secondary >> September-October 2013 37

programs (14 percent of those rated) for the honor roll.

Pelicans on Parade Pelicans on Parade was a public art exhibit featuring more than 140 fiberglass pelicans hand-painted by artists from Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi and Florida placed in

key locations throughout Slidell. In addition to the 4-foot pelican sculptures, some of which are still on display around the city, miniature table-top size pelicans are available for $150. If you would like to purchase and paint your own miniature pelican, call 645-WISH to order yours today! Proceeds from the pelican sponsorships are being donated to the Children’s Wish Endowment, which grants wishes to St. Tammany children who have chronic or terminal illnesses. For more information, go to the Pelicans on Parade Facebook page.

Blue Cross/Blue Shield Award Nominees Covington’s Judith Verges (the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeast Louisiana) and Nathan Young (Upward Community Services) and Folsom’s Judy Loyde (Regina Coeli Child Development Center) were nominated for the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation’s 2013 Angel Award. 38

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Northshore Technical Community College Northshore Technical Community College plans to build a new campus in Lacombe that will provide state-ofthe-art science, technology, engineering and math programming. “The new facility will allow us to better meet industry needs,” says Dr. William Wainwright, chancellor of NTCC. “High-demand education and program offerings will provide relevant career opportunities for residents throughout the northshore, strengthening local and regional economies.”

Maura Donahue Receives Award Maura Donahue received the Corporate Leadership Award from the Louisiana Center for Women in Government and Business at its fifth annual National Women’s Leadership Summit held in New Orleans. Donahue is past chairwoman of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee of the United States Chamber of Commerce, and currently chairs the Nominating Committee and serves on the Senior Council and the Executive Committee. She is partner and executive vice president of DonahueFavret Contractors, Inc.

Alexis Gennusa Congratulations to former Inside Northside intern Alexis Gennusa for making the 2013 Spring Semester Dean’s List at the University of Southern Mississippi!

Stone Creek Club & Spa “Stars & Stripes Salute” After six weeks of fundraising efforts for the Wounded Warrior Project, the staff at Stone Creek Club & Spa in Covington concluded its “Stars

& Stripes Salute” by dedicating a new American flag to American soldiers, past and present. The dedication took place at Stone Creek on July 3. Members of the 215th MPAD, U.S. Army Reserves raised the flag for the first time as Stone Creek staff, local firefighters, Covington Mayor Mike Cooper and others gathered for the ceremony. The “Stars & Stripes Salute” raised $15,000 for the Wounded Warrior Project through member donations, public donations and corporate sponsorships. Over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, 500 tribute American flags lined Stone Creek’s property on Ochsner Boulevard in tribute to all those who have served to protect our freedom.

John Smith Named New Slidell Economic Development Director Slidell Mayor Freddy Drennan recently appointed John Smith as the city’s new economic development director. Smith says he will seek out new businesses, but also wants to make Slidell’s climate better for existing businesses, especially small businesses. Smith’s appointment comes five months after the St. Tammany Parish government appointed Don Shea as its first-ever economic director.

The Journey to a Very Happy House

The Brupbacher home

Above: Exterior of the renovated house. Opposite: This portrait of the family, taken just before Katrina, hangs in the window of Brian’s office. 40

IT HAS BEEN EIGHT YEARS since the rushing waters and fierce winds of Hurricane Katrina hit the Louisiana and Mississippi Gulf Coast, almost destroying everything in its path and forever changing the lives of those who lived there. Dami and Brian Brupbacher’s home on a tranquil golf course in Ocean Springs, Miss., was flooded with 11 feet of water. Two containers of architectural salvage in the yard were soaked. They held stained glass windows, doors and other treasures that Dami had collected for years to use in the renovation of their home. Just days before the storm, the family moved to a rental house, only a mile away, so that the renovation could begin. Then, Katrina struck. Everything the family owned was in the old house. “When I opened the doors and saw the soggy mess, I wanted to cry,” says Dami, “but there wasn’t time for that.” As the water filled the home, it shuffled everything within; as it receded slowly, everything gently resettled. At its highest, the water reached the roof of the house. Chairs eerily hung from chandeliers; china cabinets full of china and other breakables lay facedown, but with their contents intact. “Surprisingly, very little was broken,” says Dami. “It was just wet. We removed everything from

Inside Northside

the two containers of salvage, re-measuring and re-cataloguing each item while it dried out.”

Dami’s House Hunt Brian and Dami decided to move to higher ground in Louisiana. Dami estimates she looked at 100 houses between Baton Rouge and Slidell. She never found the “right house” until while looking at one house in Covington, she fell in love with the house next door. “I looked out of the third-story window and saw this house. I told the Realtor that I wanted it. She said it was not for sale, so I left a note on the door telling the homeowners I wanted to buy their house and to please call me.” Dami describes what happened next: That same day, Brian and I were going to see a house in Baton Rouge that I had found online. It was near my sister’s house, and it had some original stained glass—I love stained glass. Brian and I went to the showing in separate cars because he was headed back to Mississippi. He was getting tired of the house-looking thing. He said, “Look, here’s the plan: If I don’t like the outside of the house, I will just keep driving >>

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

by Poki Hampton

September-October 2013 41

and go to the coast. You and your mother can wait and see it.” My mother and I drove over there, and I saw oak trees and a sign down this beautiful road of beautiful shadiness and loveliness. Brian looped through the driveway and said, “Don’t like it; see you later.” I spotted a “for sale by owner” house nearby; it was a cute Acadian. As I watched Brian, he tapped his tail lights and drove on! I called him and said, “This is the cutest house; you have to come back and see it!” He went for lunch, and said he would come back after we finished with the Realtor at the first house. I called the name on the sign for the Acadian and the woman let us look at it right away. I loved the house, and it was like the owner was my long-lost sister. The house was so cute, with a pond and oak trees. (This was all of 12 hours after I left a note on the door of the house in Covington.) The woman said she was putting the house Top: The walls of the niche are covered in hand-stenciled wallpaper created by Dami’s mother, Sylvia Garrett. Middle: A salvaged piece of antique stained glass hangs outside a nook in the hallway. Bottom: Stained glass lodged in a tree.

on the Internet the next day. I told Brian I wanted to put a contract on the house. He said he didn’t like it and wanted to keep looking. I started arguing with him. He said he wasn’t going to argue; he wanted to keep looking. I called Mama, crying my eyes out because he didn’t like it. Mama told me 42

Inside Northside

thought it was a Realtor. The person on the other end said, “Hello, this is Sweetie Cross. You left a note on my door.” I held my breath. All I could get out of my mouth without crying was, “I know, Mrs. Cross, you probably think that is the craziest thing in the world. I can’t imagine what got into me.” “Oh no, I don’t think it is crazy at all,” she said. “We have lived in the house for 50 years. We are in our 80s ...” At the same time, I was thinking: “What was I praying for? I was praying to stop crying—and what would make me stop crying would be if this lady called to say I could buy her house.” She said, “The funny thing is that our

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

to compose myself before I got to Ocean Springs. “Go in, be reasonable. Brian will think about it, and you will probably get the house,” she said. I knew I had to compose myself, because Brian will not listen to me while I am crying, crying and crying! I know I have to talk to him fast because the pictures of the cute house are hitting the Internet the next day. I was in the car praying, “God, You know Brian will not listen to me if I am crying. Please help me stop crying.” About that time, my phone rang. I

kids have been after us to sell and move closer to them in Augusta, Ga. We have not found the strength to do it.” I could not talk because I felt that God had answered my exact prayer. Not what I thought I was praying for, but my exact prayer. The emotion overtook me. I said, “Mrs. Cross, I am crying right now. I can’t really explain it. I can’t talk. It’s a long story, and I know you don’t have time to hear it.” “Oh, dear,” she said. “I have all the time in the world.” So I start telling her in a rush, “Well, it all starts with Katrina. And my house filled up with water.” I went through the whole story. Then, I told her I was praying to

Top: “Hello, my name is Sweetie Cross. You left a note on my door,” hand-embroidered by Sylvia Garrett on fabric for original side door. Middle: New back porch.

Bottom: Master bath with re-created >>

stained-glass cabinet.

September-October 2013 43

Right: Salvaged stained-glass doors leading from the powder room into the hallway. Below: The large St. Joe brick fireplace is the focal point of the great room.

Opposite: A chess set and two

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

chairs in the central hallway.

Inside Northside

stop crying so I could talk my husband into buying a house. “The thing that would make me stop crying the most would be if you called to say I could buy your house. I know you think I am weird.” “Oh no, honey,” Sweetie said. “We probably have a little more in common than you know. You haven’t even seen the inside of the house; you don’t know if you want it.” When I got home, I could tell that Brian had expected me to be all to pieces, so he went to bed early. He gave me an odd look, because I was not what he expected. My two sons were still awake, so I told them the whole story. My oldest son said, “I have a prediction: you will go see the house. You will fall in love with the house. You will buy it— and you will tell this 45-minute story to everyone who will listen for the rest of our lives.” The next day, we went to see the house, met the Crosses and fell in love with the house. I told Brian if he liked the house he needed to make an offer right away. He made the offer, and the Crosses said to let them think about it. In a very short time, they accepted our offer. Mama and I would go over and help them pack. We would bring a casserole and stay for a few hours. George, who was president of the Military Road Historical Society, told us great old stories about

Military Road. One time, my sister, Amber, and I dressed up in costumes and performed a skit for George and Sweetie. I was Little Orphan Annie with a red curly wig. I sang the whole song, The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow. Then, Amber came in singing Hey Big Spender. George had a ball and was singing with her. He was 87 at the time. Sweetie’s phone rang, and she said “Hello? Well, you won’t believe it. They are in full costume and one of them is making the moves on George.” After several such delightful days together, Sweetie and George were gone, and the house was ours.

Renovation Begins After the Crosses moved to Augusta, Dami and Brian began adding on to and remodeling the original house. The footprint was doubled in size, creating a new side entrance, kitchen, great room and breakfast room. “We used every door, window and fixture from the original house in the renovation, as well as my containers of architectural salvage,” says Dami. >> September-October 2013 45

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

The original house, which was built in the 1920s, had a side entrance. Dami created a new side entrance that has a sight line through the entire house. As you enter, there is a nook filled with an antique trunk, silk pillows and bird décor. Hand-painted sconces and an aviary painting hang on hand-stenciled wallpaper. Dami’s “Mama,” Sylvia Garret, an artist whose touch can be seen throughout the house, created the wallpaper for the entrance. Two diminutive chairs in aqua velvet flank a French wall-mounted table. A hand-painted cabinet and a chest hold various treasures. The doors to the powder room are reclaimed stained glass that Covington artist Gordon Binder repaired. “Gordon worked on most of the stained glass in the house, either fixing it or creating new pieces where needed,” says Dami. There are approximately 45 pieces of art glass throughout the home. A St. Joe-brick archway leads into the great room. Cypress trusses and beams dominate the space. A large fireplace, also in St. Joe brick, is the focal point. An oversized entertainment center, constructed from reclaimed furniture with new stained glass doors, is painted a cool gray. Hand-blown glass chandeliers in the Tiffany style give extra light. Comfortable, customupholstered sofas in seven different fabrics paired with worn rugs make the room cozy. The kitchen is open to the great room and breakfast room. Dami worked with Chris Huval of Folsom to get just the right look. “We wanted a big kitchen that was good for entertaining and cooking for a crowd,” she says. They painted the cabinets the color of freshly churned butter, and Dami added antique amber glass pulls and knobs. The cabinets open from both sides, a feature Dami loves, because it allows her to fill the cabinets from one side and set the table from the other. The dark gray granite counter tops provide Above: View contrast to the cabinets. Above the from the central commercial stove is an antique iron hallway toward the planter repurposed into a pot rack. new back porch. Having salvaged a four-panel Left: Double iron decorative screen, Dami had doors hiding adult contractor Bill Keller’s carpenters beverages are set make two sets of French doors for into the brick wall in the pantry and the coffee stand. >> the butler’s pantry. September-October 2013 47

Top: Formal living room with new heart-pine stairs and iron banister.

cellar under construction. Far

right: Wine cellar with bottles that survived Katrina.

Inside Northside

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

Inset above: Formal living room during construction. Right: Wine

The new farm sink with its embossed apron and the antique-style faucet complete the look. The breakfast room holds a thick, oversized rough-hewn wooden trestle table surrounded by eight antique English chairs upholstered in cranberry velvet with Bergamo fabric seats and large nail-head trim. The long plate rack holds a collection of copper mugs and plates that Sylvia found on one of her many trips to Mexico. The china cabinet is one that survived the storm. “When we got into the soggy house in Ocean Springs, everyone was rushing to clean up the mess. The boys just wanted to get it out of the muck. This china cabinet was on its side, but nothing was broken inside,” says Dami. A hand-painted carved mirror hangs above a small table. “When Sweetie showed us what was then the laundry room, it cinched the deal,” says Dami. “Brian and I had always wanted a wine cellar!” The laundry room has been moved, and now a large gothic cathedral-arched door in faded, distressed green at the back of the breakfast room serves as the entrance to the wine cellar. The door opens onto a brick stairway illuminated by a wrought iron chandelier. “To me, the best part of the house is the wine cellar,” says Bill. “It was such a challenging and unique project.” Original to the house, the cellar would flood during a heavy rain. Bill and his crew created brick walls with a 1.5-inch of air space in between to allow the water to run down and collect underneath the floor, where it is removed via sump pump. A large weathered trunk and a wine press from the Black Forest of Germany occupy the space, along with 300 bottles of wine and a variety of wine accessories. Both pieces were put into place just in the nick of time while the bricklayers were finishing their work; they are now >> September-October 2013 49

permanent fixtures, as they are too large to fit through the new stairwell. Off the breakfast room is a captivating butlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pantry. Queen Anne-style stained glass windows filter the light from the front of the house through the pantry into the stairwell of the wine cellar. A bank of cabinets painted a soft gray-green and fitted with antique ceramic and iron pulls holds everything needed for entertaining. The countertops are grey ceramic tile with a scalloped edge. A brick arched wall with a green salvaged window gives a peek down into the wine cellar stairwell. An antique cheese cutter sits atop an English oak table. Another of Damiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finds, a heavy iron door that looks as though it came off a kiln or furnace, is recessed into the brick wall and serves as the door to the liquor cabinet. While the renovation continued around her, Sylvia began painting a mural on the dining room walls that captures the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s journey to their new home. First, she depicts the family living happily

Arched cathedral door leads to the wine cellar. 50

Inside Northside

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

in their beloved Ocean Springs, with all of the trees and animals that abounded on their property, including a 14-foot alligator the boys were always trying to catch. As the mural wraps around the room, it shows the fury of Katrina’s wind and water, Dami’s search for a new home and the note left on the screen door. The words “The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow,” painted in bright colors, lead to a tranquil Louisiana scene with a black bear to denote strength, and finally, their new home. The formal living room, in the original part of the house, is filled with furnishings that show “beauty marks” from Katrina. The sofa was found on the side of the road and reupholstered. Two club chairs were done in coordinating fabric. The blown glass light fixture set the tone for the rest of the house. Because of structural problems, the staircase had to be rebuilt. “We used heart pine to match the new floor throughout the house,” says Dami. The graceful, deep treads were rebuilt to the original size. The wooden spindles in the railing were replaced with custom wrought iron. Above the stairs is what remains of the >>

Above: A four-paneled screen was used to make two sets of double doors for the pantry and coffee bar.

Below: Upholstered English chairs around a thick, oversized rough-hewn table in the breakfast room.

September-October 2013 51

The formal dining room with the beginning of the mural, handpainted by Sylvia Garrett, that depicts the family’s journey from Ocean Springs to Covington.

many family photos Dami collected over the years, as most did not fare well in the storm. “We salvaged what we could and then borrowed albums from other family members to copy,” says Sylvia. Downstairs, the master bedroom is dominated by a hand-carved mahogany bed, which Dami had made in California. The carving features a “B” in both the headboard and footboard, which Sylvia designed. Painted chests flank the bed and two armoires, an antique settee and chairs fill the room. The bedcovers are in tones of cranberry with appliqués of gray silk in designs reminiscent of sea urchins. Sylvia hand stenciled the walls in a soft aqua with silver leaf overlay. The master bath is the combination of two bathrooms from the original house. Brian and Dami each have a separate side with a sink and storage; the tub and shower are shared. The tub is tiled in soft sage green with cream accents; a small chandelier hangs above. A custom wall cabinet was created by Bill’s carpenters to feature a reclaimed stained-andleaded glass window from Dami’s collection. Opposite the staircase is a set of restored French doors leading to what was formerly a sunroom but now serves as Brian’s home office. Sylvia refurbished

Above: Soggy stained-glass windows drying out after Katrina.

Right: Queen Anne-style stained-

pantry. Opposite: “Bunt” Percy visits Dami and Sylvia while the house was under construction.

Inside Northside

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

glass cabinet doors in the butler’s

the French doors herself by using several coats of tung oil to remove the water damage. New built-in bookshelves hold Brian’s books and treasures. While the brick floor is original, the old paneling and acoustic tile ceiling were removed, replaced with stately cypress beams and iron-reinforced trusses. Cypress tongueand-groove ceiling panels were added, and the finish fairly sparkles in the abundant sunlight. The room is flanked by large windows on three sides; in one hangs a family portrait taken at the beach in Ocean Springs just days before Katrina.

The Walker Percy Connection The office windows provide a view of the backyard and an oak tree planted in the 1950s and ’60s by the previous owner, Walker Percy, who sold the house to the Crosses. The author of the award-winning novel The Moviegoer and one of the most prominent American writers of the 20th century, Walker lived there with his wife, who was affectionately known as “Bunt.” She visited Dami and Sylvia at the home while it was still under construction. “There’s the oak tree that Walker planted,” Bunt said, gesturing to the tree; she remarked how it had grown over the past 50 years. The renovation is complete, and everything is in its place in the house on Military Road. “This is such a happy house,” says Dami. “If you love this house, it will love you back.” September-October 2013 53

by Nora D. McGunnigle

Inside Northside

SINCE 1986, when Abita Brewing Company began producing beer from its namesake springs, the northshore has served as the epicenter of Louisiana craft brewing. However, with seven operational commercial craft breweries, two locally owned brewpubs and at least another half a dozen on the way over the next two years, the path Abita blazed is now more heavily traveled, extending into Covington, Mandeville, Madisonville and Hammond. The craft beer revolution is also spreading to local

barrels of beer a year. Abita’s beer offerings have grown and changed to respond to the evolving palate of the craft beer consumer. This year, the company replaced two longtime seasonal beers with new recipes: Red Ale was replaced by a new Spring IPA, and Abita’s summer seasonal Wheat has changed to a similar but more sophisticated Lemon Wheat. With the goal of improving resources for all brewers in the state, Abita contributed seed money to create the

photo: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

The selection of craft beers on tap at The Barley Oak on the Mandeville lakefront is impressive.

bars and restaurants as more owners and proprietors realize the increasing popularity of craft beer, especially locally brewed craft beer. “Craft beer,” as defined by the Brewers Association, is beer from a small, independent and traditional brewery that produces no more than six million barrels (a barrel is equivalent to 31 gallons) per year. By comparison, the largest domestic breweries produce upward of fifteen million barrels per year.

The northshore’s craft breweries Covington native David Blossman invested in the fledgling Abita Brewery back in 1986. “We weren’t ‘craft beer’ in 1986,” says Blossman. “We were just the local beer. The craft beer category didn’t even exist back then.” Today, as president of Abita, Blossman oversees production of more than 150,000

Louisiana Craft Brewers Guild to support its members. The newest member of the Guild is Chafunkta Brewing, a 1.5-barrel production brewery in Mandeville that began distributing in February 2013. Josh and Jamie Erickson have worked hard to open their brewery while raising their four sons. According to Jamie, Josh’s passions are “brewing beer and providing for his family.” The couple has collaborated from the start, and their two flagship beers, Voo Ka Ray Imperial IPA and Old 504 Coffee-Infused Vanilla Porter, reflect that partnership. “With these two beers,” Josh says, “you’re getting both Jamie and me, as we both personally love these two brews—and more importantly, we love sharing them with others.” Brewing between 16 and 32 kegs a week, Chafunkta currently supplies 16 locations, mostly on the northshore in Mandeville, Covington, Slidell >> September-October 2013 55

and Hammond. They don’t plan on staying small for long, however; plans are underway to secure a location and equipment to expand their capacity 20 times by mid-2014. They will also install a canning line and begin distributing canned beer as soon as possible. Fully entrenched in the familyfriendly community, they plan to stay on the northshore. The third fully operational commercial brewery in the area is Covington Brewhouse, located across the street from the Covington Trailhead and established by Henryk Orlik in 2005 to focus on German-style beers. Brian Broussard, the current brewmaster, has expanded that focus over the past year to experiment with other styles like porter and IPA. Situated at the start of the 31-mile long Tammany Trace, the Brewhouse connects with the community by sponsoring events like the Rockin’ the Rails Concert series between October and April; hosting tours and open houses during Trailhead events; and sponsoring local bike club races. “Now that the beer scene up here is growing,” Broussard says, “we want to show our appreciation by focusing on events on the northshore rather than across the lake.” Zac and Cari Caramonta say Covington Brewhouse has been a great support to them as they work toward opening their 30-barrel brewery, Gnarly Barley, in Hammond. “I’m on the phone with Zac almost every day,” laughs Broussard. He’s providing advice about everything from beer recipes to plumbing solutions, as the Caramontas build their brewery in anticipation of an early 2014 opening. “Everybody takes care of each other here,” says Zac. “For me, Louisiana is the best place to be in the beer industry.” Gnarly Barley has been the couple’s dream since they served their beer to the public

at a non-profit event in New Orleans in fall 2011. Originally brewing in their home in Ponchatoula, they are pleased with their relocation to Hammond, given its central location and access to Baton Rouge, New Orleans and the rest of the northshore. The Caramontas had originally planned to start much smaller than 30 barrels, but once they created a business plan and began to seek financing, they realized it made more sense for them to invest

immediately in a larger system, start brewing and sell a higher volume of beer. Their path has taken a bit longer than they anticipated, says Cari, â&#x20AC;&#x153;because of all the things you have to learn first along the way.â&#x20AC;? Nick Powers, owner of the Old Rail Brewing Company brewpub in Old Mandeville, knows very well the delays that come from learning how to navigate the complex system of permits and licenses. Although the brewpub he built on the site of an old train depot has been finished and outfitted with a state-of-the-art brewing system, the federal permitting process delayed its opening for more than a year. However, with its opening this summer, the community can finally partake of the beer and food provided by Brewmaster Matt Horney and Chef de Cuisine Brett Monteleone. The beer styles range from a light lager to a hoppy IPA to a smooth milk chocolate stout, and the menu has been created to complement the beer, often using it as a key ingredient. Powers also owns The Barley Oak Old World Draught Haus, a beer bar on Lake Pontchartrain that has been widely credited for helping to change the craft beer culture of the northshore. When the Barley Oak opened in early 2009, customers would come in and expect to see mass-market lagers on tap. But by introducing their palates to easy-drinking craft beer and offering new and interesting beer styles, Powers and his staff were able to guide his clientele to appreciate

Large chilled holding tanks are hooked directly to the taps at The Old Rail Brewing Company at the Mandeville Trace Trailhead.

September-October 2013 57

a variety of beers. With the opening of the Old Rail, Powers says, “It’s the local market’s time.” He believes that the northshore community desires and deserves the opportunity to enjoy local beer at local businesses.

Getting local beer into the market For years, Vanessa Gomes worked alongside Powers to spread the word of delicious craft beer to the community as the marketing and events director of the Barley Oak. Her dedication

and extensive knowledge of the beer they served caught the attention of Joel Champagne, owner and president of Champagne Beverage Company in Madisonville. Although Champagne Beverages has been an Anheuser-Busch (Budweiser) distribution company since 1957, Champagne decided to add craft beer to the portfolio of products in 2007 when he saw the growing craft beer market. By 2013, he had created the position of Craft Brand Manager and knew that Gomes was perfect for the job. Since then, she’s been working closely with brewers and local businesses to discuss the current beers on the market, conduct employee training, and help determine craft beer business strategy. She’s highly regarded for her beer knowledge and excellent people skills on both sides of the lake and her work continues to increase awareness of craft beer, especially local craft beer, all over the northshore. When Champagne Beverage Company began distributing craft beer, the focus on local beer became a top priority. “Every brewery has a story to tell,” Champagne says, and it’s his job to make sure that the market hears the story. “I love helping out the local people and businesses from Louisiana,” Champagne continues. “It’s a two-way street: without the support of the community, we wouldn’t be where we are today.” Vince Magliolo, sales vice president, echoes this sentiment: “We decided that every local craft opportunity that we could get, we would be involved in. The community embraces that. We have grown with our local crafts tremendously.” Distributors like Champagne Beverage Company are important because they are the middle tier of the threetier system. They sell, market and deliver the product from the first tier, the supplier/brewer, to the third tier, the retailer, and ensure through careful quality control that the customer will experience the product exactly as the supplier wants to bring it to market.

Where to find craft beers Retailers are divided into two categories: on-premises (bars and restaurants) and off-premises (bottle shops and grocery stores). Several local bars and restaurants have emerged as leaders in the craft beer scene on the northshore. In Covington, The Chimes, Mellow Mushroom and the Columbia Street 58

Inside Northside

Tap Room have been working over the past few years to provide more craft and local beers to their customers. In the case of The Chimes, craft beer has been a driving force since the original Chimes bar and restaurant opened in Baton Rouge in 1983. The Covington location has 75 taps dominated by American craft beer. Shane Waller, bar and beverage manager for all three Chimes locations, says, “We’re witnessing a revolution” in craft beer. He is implementing a beer training program similar to Cicerone’s or the Brewers Association’s for every bartender and food server in all locations and planning more beerpairing events at The Chimes. Another Covington establishment, the Columbia Street Tap Room, has been slowly turning draft lines over to American craft beer over the past few years under the management of Jonathan James. He still has some domestic lagers on draft as well as in the bottle. “If it wasn’t for the big beer companies, we wouldn’t have the money to serve American craft beer,” James says. “You have to pay homage where homage is due.” The Tap Room feature events with local brewers like Covington Brewhouse and NOLA Brewing. Covington’s Mellow Mushroom has been hosting events such as the Mystic Krew of Brew’s annual Larry Hartzog Twisted Homebrew Contest and Party as well as their monthly meetings since 2010. This dedication to beer drinkers and brewers has translated into much loyalty for the establishment by the local beer community, who enjoy 20 different beers on tap to go along with the pizzeria’s food. Venturing out of Covington, beer aficionados can find eight craft beers selected specifically to pair with the food September-October 2013 59

at Slidell’s Palmetto’s on the Bayou. They have been serving craft beer for the last few months, since New Belgium came on draft and, as Vinnie La Donne, general manager, says, “brought a whole new energy to the market.” The staff, long accustomed to selling wine to pair with Palmetto’s menu, is now learning how to talk about and sell beer in the same fashion. Palmetto’s plans to include suggested pairings on the menu, host beer dinners and tastings and have beer-focused Happy Hours in their Cypress Bar that sits right on the edge of the bayou out back. For bottles to consume off-premises, Acquistapace’s Supermarket in Covington has one of the best bottle selections in the state. A dozen cold cases line the back of the wine, beer and spirits department, and two-thirds of that is craft beer and international imports from Belgium, Germany and the United Kingdom. For an unusual combination of on- and off-premise selection, Red White & Brew in Hammond is a beer, wine and spirits store with an in-store bar. All beer is priced for chilling and enjoying on site, but if you simply take it home with you, you enjoy a 10 percent discount. Todd Delaune, owner of the store since June 2012, installed the taps this summer, which have significantly raised the profile of his beer program. He’s been adding craft beer and import products steadily and holds beer tastings once a quarter. It’s an unusual craft beer niche that has served Delaune and the surrounding community well.

Brew your own Ron Guzman, owner of the northshore’s only homebrew supply store, Main Grain Homebrew Supplies in Abita Springs, was a homebrewer for 18 years before opening his store in early 2012. Main Grain offers the ingredients and supplies for crafting beer, wine, spirits and cheeses, and Guzman plans to move it to Mandeville in November. He is an enthusiastic member of the local homebrew club, the Mystic Krewe of Brew, often encouraging his customers to join. 60

Inside Northside

Charles Weatherly, the current club president, says that membership in the northshore’s only homebrew club has gone from 25 people in 2010 to more than 60 people in 2013. The club does much more than homebrew, according to Weatherly. Members get together to taste learn about beer styles, host beer and food pairings, and plan to dabble with a beer and cigar event this year. “The club members are ambassadors of craft beer,” he says. They are also responsible for putting together the Larry Hartzog Twisted Homebrew Contest and Party, which, in 2014, will be an official Beer Judge Certificationsanctioned homebrew competition event. They also participate in local and regional beer events like the WYES International Beer Tasting held every June in New Orleans, and the Emerald Coast Beer Festival in Pensacola held in September. From homebrew clubs to fine-food restaurants to breweries of all sizes, the northshore is home to one of the most concentrated and fertile craft beer communities in the state. Through their passion for providing delicious beer, these businesses and enthusiasts hope to engage even more palates and continue the northshore’s craft beer revolution.

Upcoming Events Barley Oak Oktoberfest September 28-29 2101 Lakeshore Dr., Mandeville 985-727-7420 Covington Brewhouse Tours Saturday: 10:00 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m. (except major holiday weekends) 226 East Lockwood St., Covington 1-888-910-2337 Abita Tasting Room and Brewery Tour Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 2 p.m. Saturday: 11:00 a.m., noon, 1:00 p.m., 2 p.m. 21084 Louisiana 36, Abita Springs

The Mystic Krewe of Brew is the oldest home brew club on the Northshore.

Mystic Krewe of Brew meetings Third Thursday of every month mkob.com

September-October 2013 61

The Castle by the River Louisiana’s Old State Capitol by Caroline Armbruster

THE STORY OF LOUISIANA’S OLD STATE CAPITOL is one of struggle and survival. In Baton Rouge’s colorful history, the Gothic-style castle has remained a familiar site since its construction in 1850. Built in a city that no one (save for the residents of Baton Rouge) favored, and in an architectural fashion that many considered unseemly, the Old State Capitol was the center of Louisiana’s tumultuous politics for nearly a century before its abandonment in 1932. The building, which sits on a picturesque hill overlooking the Mississippi River, represents the beginning of Baton Rouge’s growth into the thriving city that it is today.

A year later, they succeeded in making their city the seat of state government. James Harrison Dakin, an architect working in New Orleans, submitted a unique design for the State Capitol. Rather than the typical Greek or Roman (or neoclassical) design used in Washington, D.C., and in state capitals throughout the country, he envisioned a distinctive, Gothic-style castle. Dakin’s decision was in keeping with the popularity of Gothic revival architecture, which became particularly fashionable in the 19th century. His design was completed only five

Above: The Old State Capitol as it is today. Right: The Gothic-style staircase ascends from the black-andwhite marble floor. 62

In 1845, a new state constitution commanded the Louisiana Legislature to “designate and fix the seat of government at some place not less than 60 miles from the city of New Orleans.” New Orleans had been Louisiana’s capital since the state’s creation in 1812, but the city’s thriving business economy and alluring amusements kept the legislators from performing their jobs satisfactorily. Many also became concerned that the power and wealth of the state would forever be concentrated in “the Big Easy.” The 1845 constitution fixed this problem, however, and the government began looking for a new capital. Prominent citizens in Baton Rouge offered to donate both the land and funds to construct a new State Capitol.

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photos courtesy: LIBRARY OF CONGRESS PHOTOGRAPHY COLLECTION

Building the castle

years after the 1845 constitution had ordered the change of cities. The people of Baton Rouge were pleased with their new State Capitol, and the legislators settled into their new location.

Troubled times It was not long before the people of New Orleans began to fight for the capital’s removal from Baton Rouge. Throughout the 1850s, newspapers from both cities slandered one another mercilessly. The Delta, a New Orleans newspaper, called the newly built State Capitol a “Semi-Barbaric Castle of ‘olden times.’” The dignified Gothic castle evoked memories of the medieval period—of kings and queens, knights and lords—not necessarily the best image for a democratic government to project. New Orleans itself was not free from accusations of corruption. The Baton Rouge Gazette declared that by moving the capital away from New Orleans, the legislature was finally “beyond the influence of rich corporations, fine dinners, excelling wines, and other stimulants.” According to the Gazette, these stimulants “allowed certain moneyed individuals … to have pretty much their own way in the legislation of the State.” The debate with New Orleans was not the only concern for the people of Baton Rouge. When the Civil War came to the city in 1862, Union troops used the State Capitol as a barracks and as a prison for Confederate soldiers. The final hardship of this period came in December 1862 when a fire almost completely destroyed the building’s interior. It was not long before the inevitable came to pass. The capital returned to New Orleans—the center of Union occupation in Louisiana. >> September-October 2013 63

The turn of the century All was not lost for the State Capitol. The issues that plagued the New Orleans government in the 1840s had not gone away. Decadence and idleness once again kept legislators from doing their jobs properly. Matters became even worse after the war, as New Orleans had become the center for Reconstruction in Louisiana. Southern resentment boiled over and fueled the efforts to remove the legislature from New Orleans. In 1879, another state constitution required the capital to return to Baton Rouge. William Alfred Freret became the new architect for the State Capitol’s restoration. His design was ambitious, and many of the elegant features he chose for the building can still be seen today. Freret’s design, completed in 1882, included a number of changes and additions to the original structure—an expansion of the interior’s decorative ironwork, stained glass windows, black and white marble floors, more towers on the roof and an exterior painted a dark, brick red. Not everyone appreciated Freret’s work. Mark Twain glimpsed the State Capitol from the Mississippi River on his way to New Orleans. In his memoir, Life on the Mississippi, Twain expressed his astonishment that a “castle, with turrets and things” had been built in an “otherwise honorable place,” and believed it would have been “charitable to let dynamite finish what fire began.” Though many scorned the additional towers and dark red exterior, the people of Baton Rouge were pleased to have their State Capitol in use again. In 1885, the body of former Gov. Henry Watkins Allen was brought to Louisiana and interred on the northwest corner of the State Capitol’s grounds. Allen, a beloved governor of Louisiana 64

Inside Northside

photo courtesy: LOUISIANA’S OLD STATE CAPITOL

Above and inset:

Huey Long The State Capitol did, however, survive into the 20th century and the outbreak of World War I.

photo courtesy: LOUISIANA’S OLD STATE CAPITOL

Inset photo courtesy: LIBRARY OF CONGRESS PHOTOGRAPHY COLLECTION

and Confederate general, had died in exile not long after the Civil War. His return to Baton Rouge boosted the morale of many Louisianians. The monument that rests over his burial site remains on the grounds to this day. As the turn of the century neared, many believed the State Capitol needed modern comforts. Throughout the early 1900s, electricity, washrooms and an elevator were installed. Despite the technological innovations, the immense building was in need of constant repair. In 1906, another fire severely damaged the Senate Chamber. That same year, the elevator broke down and legislators were forced to use the staircase. The people of New Orleans used this opportunity to undertake another campaign for the capital’s return. Those in Baton Rouge realized they were fighting an uphill battle, and some blamed the condition of the State Capitol. They began to see it as too old and too small for Louisiana’s growing government.

The stained-glass rotunda then and now. Left: Decorative iron work and blackand-white marble floors can still be seen today. September-October 2013 65

photo courtesy: LOUISIANA’S OLD STATE CAPITOL

Above: A night view of the Old State Capitol. Right:

Citizens held a benefit dance on the grounds for the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Service Club, and planted crops there to help with the war effort. In the 1920s, the castle witnessed a number of women’s suffrage rallies just outside its doors. Then, in 1928, Huey Pierce Long became governor of Louisiana. His inauguration took place on the grounds of the State Capitol in front of a large crowd. The old Gothic castle was cleaned and made more presentable for the occasion. (The exterior had been painted its original white in 1902, to the delight of many.) Initially, Long had planned another restoration of the building. In 1929, however, the governor was impeached on charges of bribery, misuse of state funds and other abuses of power. The impeachment trial took place in the State Capitol that April. The House of Representatives voted for impeachment, but a majority of senators refused to convict Long. Long remained in office, but he retained a hatred of the State Capitol as the scene of his impeachment. He was determined to abandon it, and three years later, he had the New State Capitol built. The new structure was a modern skyscraper, and many welcomed the symbol of modernity. With the creation of the New State Capitol building, the complaints of New Orleans and other cities in Louisiana regarding the placement of the capital disappeared. The Old State Capitol was forced to retreat from the center stage of state politics.

William Freret’s

Neglect and restoration

restoration of the Old Capitol includes beautiful stainedglass windows. 66

The Old State Capitol, abandoned and disregarded, endured the Great Depression and World War II along with the rest of Louisiana. In 1946, the state Legislature dedicated it as a memorial

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to the Louisianans who lost their lives in the war. In 1949, France sent the “Merci Train” to the United States as a symbol of alliance and friendship. Each state received a boxcar from the train, and Louisiana’s was displayed on the grounds of the Old State Capitol. It remains there to this day.

In 1976, the Old State Capitol found a new identity. The building, deemed to hold “significance for all Americans in commemorating the nation’s past,” became a National Historic Landmark. In the early 1980s, the building fell under the Louisiana State Museum system, which was based in New Orleans. The old feud between Baton Rouge and its rival city returned once again. In 1990, Rep. Raymond Jetson accused those in charge of funding in New Orleans of treating the Old State Capitol as a “stepchild,” only throwing it “the rotting crusts of decaying appropriations.” He suggested that the Baton Rouge landmark, soon to become a political museum, fall under a legislative commission rather than remain in the state museum system. Jetson and his supporters were successful. In 1994, the Center for Political and Governmental History of Louisiana opened under the administration of the Secretary of State’s office.

The Old State Capitol today A final renovation was undertaken in the 1990s in order to recover as much of the castle’s history as possible and to strip away almost all traces of modernization. Most of the Old State Capitol’s interior was restored to William Freret’s 1882 design. For example, the breathtaking stained glass throughout the rotunda and in the Senate and House Chambers is a combination of his original work and modern reproductions. The exterior, however, remains white— as it was in Dakin’s original 1850 design. Walking into the Old State Capitol today is very much like taking a step back in time. In spite of the 1990s restoration, some modern enhancements remain. The many exhibits throughout the Museum of Political History, as >> September-October 2013 67

Sunset view of the New State Capitol.

the museum is now referred to, are enhanced through the work of BRC Imagination Arts, a design firm based in California. In “The Ghost of the Castle” exhibit, the ghost of Sarah Morgan (see Sidebar) gives visitors an immersive account of the Old State Capitol’s history. While touring the governor’s office, you can view videos of the speeches of Long, Jimmie Davis and many other Louisiana governors. According to Charlotte Wall, the museum’s education coordinator, visitors are particularly anxious to find out the “real story” of Huey Long. His exhibit allows you to decide whether he was a hero or a villain by presenting a room divided. By looking through evidence that presents Long as both admirable and depraved, you are able to decide for yourself what sort of man and politician he was. Visitors can also learn about Long’s assassination in 1935 (ironically, in the New State Capitol he had built), view the pistol that allegedly killed him, and listen to the music Castro Carazo composed for his funeral. 68

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The House and Senate Chambers are excellent examples of the building’s political history. Though the House Chamber is much more elaborate (Freret believed the House was the more important legislative body), both contain some of the unique stained glass that also sits above the magnificent rotunda. Weddings, which now occur nearly every weekend in the Old State Capitol, take place in both chambers. Though it is now mostly a museum, the Old State Capitol has not retired from politics. It helps pave the way for new generations of dutiful Louisianans. Just outside the Huey Long exhibit, visitors can learn how to best serve their country. Various stations discuss how to be a good citizen—volunteering in the community, contributing to the restoration of historical buildings, running for office and registering to vote (Registration forms are provided.). Visitors are also encouraged to write and share a personal pledge, encouraging them to “do something for [their] state

and share it with everyone.” Louisiana’s Old State Capitol survived decades of political drama, war and abuse, only to be abandoned in 1932. Today, it has a different purpose, one not envisioned by its creators in 1850, but which still serves the people of Louisiana. While Mark Twain may have despised the Old State Capitol as an offensive piece of medieval architecture, one is more inclined to agree with the “ghost” of Sarah Morgan. At the end of her exhibit, she declares the castle to be “a monument to the soul, spirit and resilience of the people of Louisiana.” Bold, unique and resilient—the Old State Capitol is certainly an accurate representation of its state’s people. For information on visiting the Old State Capitol in Baton Rouge, go to louisianaoldstatecapitol.org or contact Charlotte Wall at 225-342-0500. For further reading: Louisiana’s Old State Capitol by Carol K. Haase.

The Castle’s Ghost Sarah Morgan Dawson (1842-1909) was the daughter of Judge Thomas Gibbes Morgan. In 1850, not long after the Morgan family had moved from New Orleans, Judge Morgan donated his lands overlooking the Mississippi River in Baton Rouge so that the Old State Capitol could be constructed in the new capital city. Sarah and her family lived through the Civil War in Baton Rouge, during which time she penned a diary (subsequently published in 1913 as A

Confederate Girl’s Diary). After the war, the Morgan family moved to Charleston, S.C., and Sarah married newspaper editor Francis Warrington Dawson. When her husband died, Sarah and her son, Warrington, moved to Paris, where she wrote various short stories and translations. She died in Paris on May 5, 1909. Sarah wrote about the Old State Capitol in her Civil War diary. Along with the “Ghost of the Castle” exhibit, visitors can view a portrait of Sarah and pages from her original diary.

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The Guillet Quintuplets QUINTUPLETS Allison, Brett, Brooke, Christopher and Emily Guillet not only enjoyed receiving their high school diplomas together this past springâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;they were also a >> part of history.

by Sasha Steinberg

, Guillet quintuplets Allison

er and Emily. Brett, Brooke, Christoph

photo: PATRICK CURREY

September-October 2013 71

Above: The Guillet quintuplets with their father and mother, Jimmy and Linda, and older brother,

“We were the 100th class to graduate from Covington High. It was pretty cool for us, and we were glad to be part of that class. I’m just happy we all made it together,” says Christopher. “All the teachers know us, so when we were walking out to go to our seats, they were waving to us and saying congratulations,” says Allison. “When we went up to get our diplomas and they said our last names one by one, everyone pretty much knew: that’s the Guillets; that’s the quints.” “It was amazing—and tearful,” recalls mom Linda Guillet about seeing the five 19-year-old siblings graduate together. She says that Emily was senior class president, and traditionally, the senior class president

gets their diploma first. “I said, ‘Oh no, I am going to hear all of those names called out in a row,’ and they made special arrangements so Emily’s name would be called out with her siblings.” “The day of graduation, we made our mom and dad cry. We had posted stuff on Facebook like ‘I’m so proud of my siblings’ and ‘I’m so proud of my parents. They’re such good parents.’ We made them read it out loud,” says Brooke. Having lived the majority of their lives in Bush, the quints are looking forward to being able to experience a sense of independence and change of scenery while in college, but they know it will take some adjusting. “It’s going to be interesting to

photos: PATRICK CURREY

Andrew. Below: Guillet quintuplets Brooke, Christopher, Allison, Emily and Brett.

see where all five of us end up in the future. It’s definitely going to be weird, finally separating from the group and not seeing them as much as I normally do, but I’m looking forward to it,” says Christopher, who will attend Southeastern Louisiana University in the fall, where he will major in general studies; he is leaning toward marine biology. Emily says, “I’m excited to be by myself and that I’ll be living in a dorm room, but it will definitely be a new thing. I’m sure I’m going to miss my siblings, but I’ll probably end up being the one that comes home a lot on the weekends.” At Louisiana State University, Emily plans to major in mass communications and go into either broadcasting or advertising. Brooke adds, “It’s going to be a big change. Now when we try to tell people that we’re quintuplets, they’re definitely not going to believe us!” Brooke will attend Southeastern, major in general studies and is leaning toward either fashion or business. Allison and Brett will also attend Southeastern. Allison will major in childhood education and participate in Southeastern’s Color Guard. Brett plans to transfer to LSU after his freshman year to major in communications/journalism and possibly minor in marketing. When describing their childhood, the quints and their older brother, Andrew, all seem to agree: life was never boring. Like most siblings, they say they like to joke around and have fun, and have played their fair share of pranks on each other. “My sisters blame their fear of the dark on Christopher and me,” says Brett. “One time, the lights were off, and I crawled into my sisters’ room acting like a cat. Emily thought I was actually the cat >> September-October 2013 73

nce upon a time, there was a little girl named Elizabeth Braud. Elizabeth loved to draw and write. When she was 3, Elizabeth began preschool at Cedarwood, a school that could satisfy her thirst for creativity and love for learning. Elizabeth was able to develop her passion through language arts, drama, art and student council. Upon graduating from Cedarwood, she went on to St. Scholastica Academy where she excelled in academics, art and leadership, and served as Student Council President. Elizabeth was awarded nearly $450,000 in scholarships to nine universities. Elizabeth received her Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications: Advertising from LSU. She also studied PR and Journalism in England, France, Scotland and Ireland. Elizabeth is fulfilling her creative dreams working as Senior Project Manager at Parallax Branding & Interactive Creative Agency in San Diego, Calif., and is living happily ever after!

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because I was meowing. When I got to her bed, I grabbed her leg and scared her real bad,” he laughs. “Another time, Christopher hung a cape and a mask on a hanger,” adds Andrew. “We turned the hallway lights off so the girls would have to creep to the end of the hallway to turn them on. My room’s in the middle of the hallway. When they went past it and saw the mask, they screamed to high heaven!” “After Katrina, the house was being re-built and the walls were knocked out. We would walk through the house, and since the power didn’t work, the lights were off. Our brothers used to hide and jump out at us,” says Emily. The boys often play tricks on the girls, but Brooke says they sometimes manage to get them back. When asked whether his younger siblings were a handful at times, Andrew quips: “Well, I did move out two years ago!” He says the idea of not seeing his siblings every day took some getting used to when he first went away to school in Baton Rouge. “I had had Chris and Brett to go out and do stuff like fishing and camping. When you go from a house full of people to absolutely no one, it gets boring really quickly. I do come home every now and then.” “In general, we’re all pretty close. We’re used to having so many people around the house. On a normal day, there’s always something going on,” Christopher says, adding that he and his siblings have always liked being competitive with one another. “We have a spot on our refrigerator where if one of us makes a 100 on a test, we’ll put it there and somebody will put theirs on top of it. We compete to see who can get better grades.” “We have a lot of family movie

nights,” says Emily. “It’s fun being with your family instead of just being with a small group or one person. We’re very social people. Both of our parents are very outgoing, so growing up around them, we picked up on that.” “Everything was structured when they were babies,” says Linda. “My husband and I are both very organized. You have to be with that many people living in the same house.” (The quints have an older brother, Andrew.) “We played with them and treated them like babies when the situation called for it, but we always treated them as adults. We did not stay home; we took them out plenty. They learned by going out and doing things.” “Our parents were definitely busy,” Brooke says. “With Allison on the flag team, our parents would go to football games; when Emily and Brett had something for student council, they would go to that; they also went to my soccer games and Chris’s swim meets.” Linda says, “I think their being so involved has helped them grow into the people that they are today. Their birthday is late in the year, so they’re a little older than their peer group, and it gave them a different maturity level.” As for what she and her husband, Jimmy, are most proud of in regards to the quintuplets, Linda says it would be how close they are. “They have their squabbles like normal siblings do, but they are good kids, and we feel very blessed and proud of them. They respect the family as a whole, and they look out for each other. Now, they’re all starting a new adventure.” But no matter where their individual paths may take them, these siblings know they will always have each other. Brett says, “It’s time to grow up and fly the coop, but at the end of the day, we’re all still family.” September-October 2013 75

by Sasha Steinberg

Inside Northside

FOR HUSBAND AND WIFE Louis and Rebecca Lirette, raising farm animals has always been more than a way of life—it’s a labor of love. “We grew up as farm kids in 4-H and FFA clubs, and we always wanted to run a farm. I grew up on a farm in South Louisiana, where we had 2,400 acres of crop land and raised cattle and hogs. I got my first hog when I was 9 years old. My husband grew up in a rural community, and he always had cattle, hogs and chickens. He got his first hog when he was 11. The part of

your heart that’s connected to the dirt and the ground—it never leaves you,” says Rebecca. After having spent the majority of their adult careers working at the LSU AgCenter, Rebecca, a research associate and farm manager of the LSU Swine Unit and instructor of swine production at the LSU School of Animal Science, and Louis, a county agent, received some upsetting news. “With the budget cuts at LSU, things just got really frightening. They shut down the swine program. We had to find other career paths,” Rebecca says.

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

The Lirettes of Chappapeela Farms

The Lirettes opened Chappapeela Farms to raise hogs in February 2012 after learning of a demand for pork from New Orleans chefs. “One of the difficult things for a young family (the Lirettes’ have two boys, Luke, 9, and Garrett Eli, 7) that wants to farm is the initial capital. We owe a great deal to Sandy Sharp, our majority shareholder in Chappapeela Farms, and his partners at Covey Rise Farms for giving us that backing and supporting all the hard work and experience that my husband and I had in agriculture.” >>

Inset: Louis and Rebecca Lirette, owners of Chappapeela Farms.

September-October 2013 77

Above: Louis and Linda with two free-range ducks. 78

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species and to adapt good management practices to fit the ducks, the local climate and their clientele. “We deal with Grimaud Pekin duck, which is originally from France and was bred specifically for whitetablecloth restaurants. If it’s given what it needs to grow, it grows at a uniform rate. When we harvest them, they weigh about 7 and a half pounds, so they are a big, fat, pretty duck.”

photos: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Though the porkers are their lifelong passion, the Lirettes needed another source of income to help support the farm. At the suggestion of restaurateur Dickie Brennan, the couple decided to give free-range ducks a try. “There are very few resources as far as scientific data or best-production practices on how to raise a duck in open fields in the South,” says Rebecca. She adds that it has been exciting to learn about a new

But in order to get good out, you have to put good in, and the friendly, hard-working folks at Chappapeela Farms strive to do just that. “We are free range on our ducks and hogs. Until they are two to three weeks old, our little ducks are kept warm and dry on shavings in a brooder barn, where they have free choice of food and water,” says Rebecca. “Then, they are put in a pasture and they spend the rest of their life out in the weather. Our animals receive a grain-based diet and also forage on managed vegetation. We plant certain crops based on the season; when they eat those, it enhances their diet and to some degree their flavor profile. “Getting an animal processed for the consumer under the guidelines of food safety can be very, very challenging for small farmers like ourselves,” notes Rebecca. “In conjunction with Chris Meredith, we were able to help facilitate the opening of the first poultry processing plant in Louisiana under state inspection in more than 40 years.” The plant is located in Robert, La. Chappapeela Farms works with a variety of clients in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette and Covington, including Tchefuncta Country Club, Del Porto, Winos and Tacos, Jubilee Restaurant, Courtyard Mandeville and Rouses Supermarkets. “There’s a lot of value in knowing how to dedicate yourself to something,” says Rebecca. “My husband and I take a great deal of pride in doing the right thing by an animal, watching it grow and thrive, and in knowing that we did everything in our power to make its beginning and end right. Our biggest goal is securing a stronghold within the culinary community and ensuring there will always be a demand for our hogs and our fresh, local, pasture-raised ducks. If there is a demand, we will be there with the supply to meet it.”

Surviving

Breast Cancer

Real Stories from Real Women

Inside Northside

by Amanda M. Westbrooks

THERE IS ENCOURAGING NEWS about breast cancer. Deaths from breast cancer have been declining since about 1989, with larger decreases in women younger than 50. Although about 1 in 8 American women will develop invasive breast cancer, there are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. This includes women still being treated and those who have completed treatment. The reason? Earlier detection through screening, improved treatment and increased awareness. That’s why it’s critical for survivors to share their stories. They help the rest of us gain the strength to be proactive. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’ve asked eight local survivors to share their experiences of the most personal battleground imaginable—their own bodies. >>

Top: Patti McHugh, Pat Brister, Angelle Albright, Patrice Senac, Kerry Milton and Susan Bopp.

Inset: Pat Mathias and Rica Fontenette. September-October 2013 81

Pat Brister Diagnosed December 2009 at age 64 No evidence of disease since July 2010 “When you’re first diagnosed, you don’t think anything good can come from it,” says St. Tammany Parish President Pat Brister. “I wish everyone knew that cancer today is not the cancer that your mother knew. It’s nothing like that now. There are treatments to get you through it less painfully than when your parents or grandparents had cancer.” Just before Christmas in 2009, Pat felt a small lump in her breast. Her regular annual check-up was already scheduled, and she asked her gynecologist, Dr. Kathleen Posey, to examine what she’d found. An ultrasound and needle biopsy later, Pat got the call no one wants: positive for Stage II breast cancer. “It’s total confusion at first,” Pat admits. “And to try and think what to do tomorrow? Now? Six months from now? All the questions come into your mind, and you’re so unsure of everything.” Pat was preparing to begin her campaign for office, and while she didn’t want to limit herself, she didn’t want to jump in over her head, either. “I put things on hold, because I wanted to get as much information as I could before deciding to run or not. I didn’t want to commit to it until I found out a lot more than I did that day. And,” she says firmly, “I was NOT going to keep it a secret.” Nor did she. A mother of an adult daughter and a grandmother, Pat went ahead with her plans to run for office and waged a public battle that inspired support from even the most unexpected sources. “What really touched me, and was so very special, was the help from my daughter’s friends,” Pat explains 82

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photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

in a voice heavy with emotion. “They’re a different generation, and yet, there they were, taking care of all the practical things for us, like cooking meals and making sure I ate the right food. It was a wonderful experience and I learned so much from it. “Joe, my husband, was a rock. And our friends—I’m still emotional,” she says on a choked laugh. “I learned what the depth of friendship really is. I thought I knew it, but the true depth of it, I’ve learned, and it’s been with me since.” At Dr. Posey’s recommendation, Pat and her husband traveled to the renowned cancer center, MD Anderson in Houston, where the initial diagnosis was confirmed and they discussed different treatment protocols. The doctors gave Pat a choice: stay there, or receive the same care and treatment at St. Tammany Parish Hospital and the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. “I wanted to have the treatment here because we have wonderful doctors, like Dr. Jay Saux, my oncologist,” she laughs. “He’s a treat! After talking with him, we knew he was the right choice for us.” For Pat, it was a no-brainer to pursue the most aggressive treatment possible—six rounds of chemotherapy from February through June 2010. The following month, she underwent a double mastectomy and reconstruction on the same day, in the hands of Dr. Scott Sullivan and the Center for Restorative Breast Surgery in New Orleans. “I’m married, didn’t have any kids at home, and I had a part-time position that wasn’t too stressful. The decision was easier for me than, say, a young mother or single woman,” Pat explains. “And my friend Kerry Milton was terrific. She was very open and told me everything she went through with her cancer.” To this day, breast cancer patients and survivors continue to reach out to Pat. “I’m so amazed at how many women are touched by the disease. To me, it’s almost epidemic. I think of friends who’ve called me since ...” she trails off in thought. “It’s amazing to me—it may be that the detection is so early, but it’s shocking to me that this many have gone through this. It is almost like a sisterhood, once you go through breast cancer. All your friends who’ve had it, they really rally around you. They’ll always be a part of you.” The bright spot in the whole experience

was when Pat tested negative for the abnormal BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. “I have a daughter and granddaughter and didn’t even want to think about having passed a cancer gene on to them.” To new patients and those currently facing the battlefield, she offers this advice: “You’re gonna be OK. It’s very important to hear it, whether you believe it at

Pat Brister.

the moment or not. Look at your life one year from now. Don’t think about this year. Think about how in one year you’re going to be just fine. You just have to make it through this year, and you fight. It’s your job until it’s over. Do it! And do it as aggressively as you can, because at the end you’re back to normal.” When Pat looks back on her experiences of three years ago, and who she was before cancer, she knows it’s definitely made her stronger. “When I think about

September-October 2013 83

things getting tough, or how to handle something difficult, I just think back and remember what I did handle. You can get through anything.”

Kerry Milton Diagnosed January 2009 at age 50 No evidence of disease since May 2009 No stranger to hospitals and medical procedures, Kerry Milton was still unprepared when a small mass appeared in her routine mammogram in January 2009. “And thank goodness I had them,” says the senior vice president and chief nursing officer at St. Tammany Parish Hospital. “Had I skipped a year, it would have been a much more progressed cancer. It was 12 months exactly from my last test. I had an ultrasound and then a breast MRI that confirmed the diagnosis.” 84

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photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Kerry Milton.

When the biopsy results came in, the diagnosis was positive: invasive lobular breast cancer. But, it wasn’t all bad news; the cancer was still in its early stages, and highly treatable. With no family history of cancer, much less breast cancer, Kerry did what any normal person would: she questioned her traitorous body. “Talk about shock!” she says. “You ask yourself all kinds of questions to try and make sense of what’s happening. ‘Why on earth did I get this? Did I drink the wrong water? Too much wine? Eat something crazy? What could have possibly led to this cancer growing within me?’” Thankfully, Kerry’s oncologist, Dr. Jay Saux, is a perfect blend of scientific and caring. “He’s disarming, very bright, supportive of his patients and he provides a lot of optimism,” says Kerry. With long-practiced medical meticulousness, the first thing Kerry did was call Chryl Corizzo, the department head of cancer services at Mary Bird Perkins. “I said, ‘Give it to me. Direct me to anything I can read or get my hands on.’ She sent me to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, which has cancer guidelines for both patients and physicians. I could see what was happening to me, what science dictated for the physician and what the treatment regimens looked like.” Kerry insists that it’s very important for cancer patients to really explore their options. “You have a tendency to want to have surgery and just get rid of the cancer, but there are different types of surgery and different options for doing both breasts. Mastectomy, lumpectomy, whether or not to spare the nipples—the more you expose yourself to multiple opinions, the better decisions you can make in the end instead of double-guessing yourself.” She spoke with her breast radiologist, Dr. Daniel Rupley, at length, heard opinions from three different

surgeons and tried to plan ahead. “I’d already decided to have both breasts removed, but I made a plan to remove one, have the chemo, and give some time to thinking about what the options were for the other and reconstruction. I’m glad I did it that way,” says Kerry. In February 2009, general surgeon Dr. William Ordoyne at St. Tammany Parish Hospital performed a mastectomy on Kerry’s right breast and inserted an implant. She started chemotherapy the following month. Her four rounds of treatment ended in May, and Kerry’s surgeries were performed at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, which included removal of the right implant, a mastectomy on the left breast and reconstruction on both sides. Among those rallying to Kerry’s side were Danny, her husband of 32 years, and their two young-adult children. Also Kim Bart, a friend who was diagnosed with a different cancer within a week of Kerry. “She lives in another state, but we were frequently texting and talking with each other throughout our treatments. It demonstrated to me the importance of being able to talk with someone who’s going through something similar.” At the encouragement of both her sister and assistant, Kerry started an online journal on CaringBridge. org to document her journey and gave the address to her family, friends and acquaintances so they could track her progress. “It feels good having so many people caring about you, and you want them to know what’s going on, but it can be tiring. I was very open and put postings up about my treatment and chemotherapy; the system sent updates and messages to everyone instantly. “Every comment on the site, getwell card or offering of a meal was >> September-October 2013 85

Pat Mathias Diagnosed January 2012 at age 61 No evidence of disease since September 2012 When Slidell-resident Pat Mathias’ annual mammogram came back with questionable results in December 2011, her doctor sent her to Ochsner Medical Center – North Shore for another look. “That had happened to me before, in 2009, so I didn’t worry too much about it. They did another mammogram and an ultrasound. Then, the radiologist walked in,” says Pat with a sigh, “so I 86

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knew something was wrong. And they sent me to have a biopsy at Slidell Memorial Hospital.” One week later, Pat received word that it looked like cancer, but they wanted another opinion. “So, there was another wait,” she says. “And I’ll never forget when that final call came in. I was in my office

Pat Mathias.

around 5:30 in the evening and they said it was confirmed: cancer. “It’s such a shock; that’s all of it in a nutshell,” Pat says of her reaction to the diagnosis—Stage II invasive ductal carcinoma, a type of cancer that begins growing in the mammary duct and invades the fatty tissue of the breast. IDC is the most common form of breast cancer, representing 80 percent of all breast cancer diagnoses. “To tell you the truth, I didn’t know what to think; the whole thing was unsettling. I went for my exam every year, and I guess this makes me a big cliché, because I was in shock—I just didn’t believe it. I ended up getting a second opinion.” Pat made an appointment with now-retired >> photo: SUSAN BROADBRIDGE

extremely helpful to my mood and emotions. It was very uplifting to know how many people cared about me,” she says. For anyone newly diagnosed with cancer, Kerry’s first piece of advice is to talk to someone who’s already gone through it. “Talk to somebody you trust and don’t hesitate. Find a buddy, a support group, people who are willing to talk. I’m available to anybody who wants to talk about diagnosis or treatment. I let my surgeon and Chryl know that if anybody needs to talk to someone, I’m here for them. It’s very important to have someone you can talk to about your questions and concerns.” Today, the only issue Kerry has is with her hair. “There’s always a threat of recurrence, but the chances for me are only 3 to 5 percent. But, oh,” she laments with humor, “I have terrible hair! It came back dry and kinky. The meds inhibit estrogen, so you end up with hormonal changes in your body. I’m going to have dry, gross hair until the end of time. I struggle with it, but it’s OK. As far as side effects go, that’s nothing at all.”

Rica Fontenette.

questions. There are some really amazing options out there now—it’s phenomenal what they can do.” First, Pat needed to explore her surgical options. She had hoped to avoid a mastectomy. When one surgeon told her she wouldn’t be happy with the results of a lumpectomy because of the size of her tumor, she sought the opinion of another. Pat scheduled consultations on the northshore as well as 88

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in New Orleans, visiting a handful of surgeons before finding the right match. “I ended up going to Ochsner Baptist in New Orleans and the Lieselotte Tansey Breast Center,” she explains. “I was so comfortable after meeting with all of the staff. I can still remember when I first met Dr. Ralph Corsetti on a consultation about my lumpectomy, and him saying, ‘It sounds like you want to conserve your breasts. Let’s take a look and see.’” Dr. Corsetti reviewed Pat’s films and ordered a breast MRI to get a better look. “In the meantime, I saw a plastic surgeon he referred me to—Dr. Matthew Wise—regarding tissue reconstruction and another plastic surgeon concerning implants,” she says. Tissue reconstruction utilizes muscle, skin and fat from another part of the body to reshape the breasts, and can be performed at the same time as a mastectomy, or later. When the results of Pat’s MRI came back, they were not good. The tumor appeared larger than originally expected, and there was something in the other breast that was definitely cause for concern. “It wasn’t breast cancer or precancerous,” she explains. “But it was definitely an indication that there’d be a future issue. That was all I needed! I said: ‘That’s it—I’m getting both sides done, because I’m doing this ONCE and that’s it.’ Learning more about the tissue reconstruction and meeting with Dr. Wise and his team made me decide to go that route.” After her mastectomy and reconstruction in midMarch, Pat hoped and prayed that the cancer hadn’t spread to her lymph nodes. She had a consultation with an oncologist at Ochsner in New Orleans, as well as Dr. James Carinder, who practices at both Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center and the Slidell Cancer Center. “I didn’t want to have to have chemo and radiation,” Pat says. “But, even though the cancer hadn’t spread, because of the size of the tumor, Dr. Carinder highly recommended, and even insisted, that I have chemo and radiation. Which I did.” Pat’s son and sisters were a big help after her surgery and throughout her chemotherapy treatments. She visited the Slidell Cancer Center every two weeks for four months for her chemotherapy, followed by 28 days of daily radiation treatments before a final estrogen test, which indicated Pat was

photo: SUSAN BROADBRIDGE

oncologist, Dr. Agustin Suarez, at the Slidell Cancer Center after her biopsy. “It was really premature; they don’t normally do that,” she says. “He was kind enough to meet with me and explain things to me. He even ordered a test to see if I was estrogen or HER2 positive.” Pat made a concerted effort to explore every option available to her along every stage of her diagnosis, surgery and treatment. “You have to be your own advocate,” she says. “It’s overwhelming, but you’ve got to read and educate yourself. You’ve got to be an active participant in the process and ask the

disease-free in September 2012. “I think we’re very lucky here with the doctors and staff that we have—not just in Slidell, but in the greater New Orleans area—that are experts in all of this. For me, that was so comforting! Here, you can have the best of the best when it comes to surgery, reconstruction and treatment,” explains Pat. “I can remember all the staff was very patient, straightforward and matter-of-fact, which I appreciate, and they were able to tell me what all my options were and explore them with me. It made it easier to make decisions.” Post-cancer, after six months on short-term disability, Pat decided to retire from her 27-year career with MetLife. “I’d worked even back in high school and started right after college. It was time for me to do things a little differently and take more time for me,” she says. “I’ve done a little in-state travel to visit family, volunteered with my church and I want to do something with breast cancer, but I’m not sure what. “After cancer, your attitude about a lot of things just changes. A lot of women had it a lot harder than I did,” says Pat. “I’m really grateful for everything, and I was so very lucky.”

Rica Fontenette Diagnosed March 2012 at age 57 No evidence of disease since March 2013 “It’s amazing, the number of friends you make when you have cancer,” says Rica Fontenette with a laugh. Another Slidell resident, she first met Pat Mathias at a patient orientation at Slidell Cancer Center. They met again later at an on-site “Look Good Feel Better” seminar designed to help cancer patients handle the changes in their physical appearance and bolster their courage, and the two became fast friends. “Her story is really similar to mine,” says Rica. “We even >> September-October 2013 89

had the same type of cancer.” In February 2012, Rica received a call after her annual mammogram to return and do additional views. “So I did, and a couple of days after that, they wanted me to do an ultrasound,” she says. “I did the ultrasound, and a few days after that, I was told I needed a biopsy.” An appointment was scheduled after the biopsy for Rica and Terry, her husband of 35 years, to hear the results. “On March 6, 2012, my husband and I went, and they told us I had breast cancer,” she says. “It was horrible. My sister was really upset, because our mother had breast cancer. But she’s deceased now, so we didn’t know what kind she had.” The mother of two sons, Rica had a pair of granddaughters to think about, so she had the BRCA test. “Most insurance won’t cover it, but thankfully, my husband’s does,” she says. “I tested negative.” Her next step was surgery, and Rica chose to have her mastectomy and reconstruction done at the Center for Restorative Breast Surgery in New Orleans with Dr. Alan Stolier and Dr. Frank DellaCroce. “I had a tummy tuck and got new breasts on the same day,” she says with a grin. They also removed 16 lymph nodes; post-operative tests revealed five were malignant. “I chose to do both breasts, even though I only needed to do the right one,” Rica explains. That was a fortuitous decision, because those same tests uncovered a pea-shaped mass in the left breast that had escaped detection in the ultrasounds and MRI. “It was even a different type of cancer,” she says. “I had eight rounds of chemo; the first four were every two weeks, then the last four were every three weeks,” Rica says. “Then I had 28 rounds of radiation. I was so thankful to have the Cancer Center here in Slidell so we didn’t have 90

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to drive all the way to New Orleans for my treatments.” For a short period of time, Rica and her new friend Pat Mathias had their chemotherapy treatments on the same day. “In the beginning, we were on the same schedule, so we’d go to our chemo, then go out to lunch after,” she says. Rica also had Dr. James Carinder as her oncologist, and she wanted to treat her cancer as aggressively as possible. “I told him, ‘Do whatever it takes.’ I didn’t care if the treatment was horrible or whatever, I just wanted to be cancer-free. That was my ultimate goal.” When speaking about the positive experiences she had throughout her postoperative treatments, Rica gets emotional. “It’s amazing. You really get a lot of support from your friends and family. I can’t even tell you how many cards I got in the mail. I had friends that would come and sit with me through my treatments. My husband helped me cope and gave me strength, and one of my sons came in from Baton Rouge after my surgery. But I have to say, everyone at the Slidell Cancer Center has been just unbelievably wonderful. I wanted to get all this done, and get it all behind me so I could move on. And I did. And they deserve a lot of credit for that.”

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Patti McHugh Diagnosed December 2011 at age 59 No evidence of disease since June 2012 One December night in 2011, Patti McHugh, group exercise director at Franco’s Athletic Club, was kicked back in bed with her laptop, tapping away at the instructor schedules for work. She scratched an “itch” on her breast. “I noticed there was something there, something that wasn’t on the other side. Something that shouldn’t be there,” she says. “It was like God led me to discover it.” Married with two sons and three grandsons, Patti had regular mammograms, the last one only eight months prior to her discovery. She wasted no time in calling her gynecologist, Dr. Johnny Swiger at St. Tammany Parrish Hospital. “I told him I had a lump, and he said, ‘Be here at nine.’ He examined me, and

Patti McHugh.

when I lay down, he said he could plainly see it. Two hours later, I was having an ultrasound. The next morning, a biopsy.” Patti kept her momentum going, looking ahead and not getting mired in details and “what ifs.” “I called Pat Brister, and she gave me a list of all her doctors. Then I turned around and called the oncology department at Mary Bird Perkins. They asked me if I wanted Saux or Carinder and I said, ‘Whoever can see me first.’ Dr. James Carinder saw me at 5 o’clock the same day. “He sent me to every test you can imagine: X-ray, PET scan, CAT scan, breast CAT scan, MRI. Once the test results were in and his diagnosis was confirmed, he had me in there the next day for Dr. Celeste LaGarde to insert my port and get me started on chemotherapy right away.” (A chemotherapy port, also known as a port-a-cath, is a small device that is surgically implanted under the skin to allow easy access to the bloodstream. A port is doubly convenient; it can be used to draw blood as well as infuse chemotherapy drugs.) “The tests showed my cancer was already Stage III and systemic. When I asked Dr. Carinder how long I’d had the tumor, he said, ‘No longer than >> September-October 2013 91

two months.’ I was sure that couldn’t be right, so I questioned him, and he said, ‘If you had that tumor longer than that, you would not be here right now.’” With a shaking voice, Patti admits, “He also said, ‘Five years ago, before Herceptin, you would be considered Stage IV right now.’ I didn’t realize how bad it was, and I was so very lucky. “My husband was a rock. He’s the half-empty and I’m the half-full type,” she says with a chuckle. “I told him, ‘Hey! I’m going to get perky new breasts!’ After he realized I really was OK, he was able to admit I was OK, if that makes sense. ‘Plus,’ I told him, ‘I don’t think Dr. Carinder would say I was OK if I wasn’t.’” Wasting no time, Patti began an aggressive Taxotere-Carboplatin-Herceptin regimen in January and underwent infusions once a week for six months. Then, she had a double mastectomy and reconstruction in June. Patti says that the process was easier than she thought it would be. “They have newer, better antinausea drugs. And the radiation wasn’t bad until the last week. I had a great surgical team for my

mastectomy. I thought losing my hair would be hard, but once it starts falling out in your hands, you can’t wait to shave it,” she laughs. Through it all, Patti’s employer was very understanding. “Franco’s told me ‘Whatever you need to do—do it.’ I’d put my chemo on the calendar, and about two days afterward, I’d crash from the treatment. They’d work with me if I had a doctor’s appointment, and even held a fundraiser for Mary Bird Perkins in my honor. My boss, the owners and my team were great. Twice a week, they cooked meals for me. My support network was ‘friends, family, faith and Franco’s.’” Patti doesn’t feel as though she’s changed much since her cancer, but she has definitely reset her priorities. “I was a workaholic, and that’s changed. Before, when my husband wanted to go on vacation, I wanted to work. Now, when he says it, I pretty much leave!” They recently visited France and went on a family trip to the beach with their kids and grandkids. “Normally, I would have never left,” Patti says. “That’s really different for me! I place so much

more value now on leaving work on time and being home with my husband. I always took it for granted before.” For someone who was previously leading strenuous body pump circuits, the slow physical recovery is understandably frustrating. “The roughest time for me is right now. I’ve gained weight, and they say breast cancer patients do. I’m not obese, but I’m not fit, and that really bothers me,” she says, in a voice rough with emotion. “I had to spend time in physical therapy after the radiation because it tightens everything up.” She is making progress, though, and recently returned to Yoga Stretch at Franco’s. When asked what helped her cope and gave her strength throughout her treatment, Patti slows down, and fights rising emotion to explain. “I felt like God had led me there, and He was keeping me here for a purpose. And in my heart, I believe it’s because I work with so many women, and we touch each other’s lives. I feel almost like it was a gift that he was giving me; like he was saying: ‘This is what I want you to do for me.’ “Honestly, I’m here right now through the grace

of God and Dr. James Carinder.”

Patrice Senac Diagnosed March 2012 at age 49 No evidence of breast cancer; currently battling thyroid cancer Not every lump is cancerous, as Patrice Senac will tell you. For her, it was the mass she couldn’t feel that caused the problem. “I have a benign cyst that was biopsied more than 10 years ago,” says the owner of Arabella Fine Gifts & Home Décor. “That one benign mass I could always feel, but it was when Dr. Rupley discovered something else in a diagnostic mammogram and ultrasound in March of last year, that he turned around and scheduled a same-day biopsy.” According to Patrice, same-day biopsies aren’t the norm, but she was a special case. “I am a baby! I’m terrified of needles,” she laughs shamelessly. “If you say ‘blood test,’ I flip out! I’m pretty much the worst patient in the world. That’s why I really have to credit Dr. Rupley. He did my first biopsy 10 years ago and knew me too well. He said, ‘If we schedule it, I’m >>

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scared you’re not going to come back and take care of this. In fact, I know you’re not going to come back.’” When Patrice returned to the hospital a few days later for the results, she had an entourage in tow, and they learned together that her worst fears were realized—it was definitely cancer. “I had more support and friends and family who humored me! I had a friend visiting from Tampa; my partner, Steve; and one of my closest friends, Janice van Meerveld—a three-time breast cancer survivor.” Janice also took Patrice on a pretreatment getaway. “‘We’re going to New York for fun,’ she told me. ‘The doctor said you can go before you start all this, so that’s what we’re going to do.’ “She’s also really, really smart,” Patrice says. “She would go to all my meetings with me, take notes and type them up. My head was just swimming; I really wasn’t hearing anything. She made sure to ask all the right questions. Janice had a good, strong knowledge base and did so much for me. So now, I have my whole history in a file.” When it comes to a family history of cancer diagnosis, though, Patrice has little to go on. “My grandmother on my mom’s side had breast cancer, which did metastasize to her brain in her 70s. My mom died around 50, but not from cancer, so I had no access to her history. I did do the genetic test, and it came back negative.” After receiving her diagnosis, Patrice and her cousin Beverly attended a one-on-one meeting with a navigation nurse, who mapped out every aspect of the treatment protocol laid out by her oncologist, Dr. Jay Saux, in a clear, understandable format. “I lost it,” she admits with a sob. “I was just hysterical. I still don’t even know how I got over it—you just 94

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photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

do, you don’t have a choice. I think what made it possible was having so many people there supporting me and helping with whatever they could. Even my gynecologist, Dr. Mary Cherry, kept track of everything, and I could call her any time. She had copies of all my notes, and it was a comfort having additional medical people looking out for me.” Patrice started her chemotherapy in May 2012, every 15 days for three months, and Beverly took her to every single appointment. “Once I got into the routine of chemo, I got better at it,” she says. “I knew when to rest and when I could work. Brittany, who manages my shop and bookkeeping and helps with the design projects, would come to the house when I couldn’t go to the office. I just kept going. “In a weird way, it was a really positive experience. The staff at the treatment center was remarkable—they made a point to learn everybody’s name and always addressed them by it. My radiation oncologist, Dr. Bermudez, was just wonderful. He was so thorough, involved and caring and always looking at the big picture. “ With the chemotherapy behind her, Patrice opted for a lumpectomy versus a mastectomy. “That was a huge decision,” she admits. “I just couldn’t face that whole surgery and reconstruction. Dr. Saux made it clear to me that it was not going to jeopardize my health in any way to have a lumpectomy. He really had to explain to me over and over that it was not going to affect whether I had a relapse. That it did not increase my chances of a recurrence.” In August, post-chemotherapy, Patrice had 30 lymph nodes removed, but 20 still showed positive for cancer. “I panicked a bit, I’ll be honest,” she says. “But they reminded me I still needed to finish up with the radiation. They were right. After the radiation ended in November, the PET scans showed negative results.” Unexpectedly, though, Patrice’s battle is still unfinished. Her initial PET scan showed thyroid cancer, and while she’s had her thyroid removed, she’ll still need to undergo radioactive iodine treatment and a full hysterectomy. “All through the chemo and radiation, you expect to feel bad,” she says. “When you feel like you can rally on and get work done, you feel better than expected. The part that was shocking was that I was

really frustrated and discouraged this year, after my cancer was gone,” she explains. “I struggle more with fatigue, and it’s very frustrating. I haven’t bounced back yet; it’s a much slower process. It’s been the harder pill for me to swallow, for lack of a better expression. “ Patrice Senac.

On top of eating healthy and trying to stay active, Patrice suggests to any cancer patient that they hold onto their sense of humor. “We always made light of things, and made fun of things. But for me, that was the best way to cope in some of those really undignified situations! It doesn’t mean you’re not taking it seriously, but humans, you have to admit, we’re funny. We’re goofy.”

Angelle Albright Diagnosed August 2005 at age 38 No evidence of disease since February 2007 “I have an irregular heartbeat,” says Angelle Albright. “So, out of habit, I was thinking about something that prompted me to put my hand on my chest, and there was something under my finger.

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Angelle Albright.

She faced a total of six months of chemotherapy, and that was only the beginning. Her oncologist, Dr.Jay Saux, recommended that the treatment include 35 days of radiation therapy and two years on Herceptin, then a new gene-therapy drug, specifically tailored to HER2-positive cancers. Because of the rapid spread of the disease, Angelle had numerous lymph nodes removed and a double 96

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mastectomy. “Cancer treatment is not a secret. I stayed here. I didn’t run off to MD Anderson or Sloan-Kettering. I didn’t need to go to Houston and be away from my husband and kids; I got the same treatment at home. Mary Bird Perkins is state-of-the-art,” Angelle says. “When you have a dire or rare case, that’s when you go out of state. There are no ‘trade secrets’ in cancer treatment. It’s all shared. When I found a study showing Herceptin was more effective when administered with Taxol, Dr. Saux and I called MD Anderson together to get the details.” It’s been eight years since then, and while Angelle says her particular cancer has a plausible chance of recurring, she’s not worried about it. “A couple of years afterward, I’d think about it, but I don’t live in fear anymore. My husband said something very wise: ‘Don’t worry until you’re told to worry;’ If it comes back, I’ll deal with it on that day.” When her older sister, Danielle, was also diagnosed with breast cancer five years later, Angelle started asking questions about their family history and uncovered some surprising answers. Among the women in their family, Angelle and her sister are not alone. Her maternal grandmother died from the disease in her 50s. Her daughter, Angelle’s mother, had a radical mastectomy at age 37 in the 1980s. And another sister has recently had several benign cysts removed. Aunts, cousins, even a niece were affected by what one would assume to be a genetic issue—but they’ve tested negative for the BRCA gene. And so far, it’s only women affected. Purely by accident, Angelle stumbled across a research study for families with cancer histories that tested negative for the notorious gene earlier this year, and her family was invited to register as possible research participants. >>

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

A pea-sized lump that was moving around. My husband, the doctor, said, ‘That’s not right. We’re getting it checked out tomorrow.’” In 2005, Angelle was a 38-year-old mother of three active children, ages 9, 7 and 4, and diagnosed with an aggressive Stage III, HER2-positive breast cancer—not a hereditary cancer, but one that is linked to a specific gene—just weeks before Hurricane Katrina. “The storm hit the day of my second chemo session, but I didn’t miss a single one,” Angelle says triumphantly. “It was a big distraction, which was a good and bad thing. Katrina was good for me mentally; I was suffering, but everyone was suffering.”

Chemo Beanies When Danielle Fournier was diagnosed with Stage III breast cancer in October 2010, the selection of headwear for cancer patients was minimal. “I didn’t want to wear a wig or a turban,” she says. “I didn’t want to look like a cancer patient.” Her younger sister, Angelle Albright, had also gone through cancer five years previously. With the help of their niece, Adrienne Metz, the sisters started Chemo Beanies. Chemo Beanies are soft, comfortable head coverings for cancer patients that are an alternative to hats or wigs. Available in a variety of styles and simple, fun or feisty fabric patterns, they “take the burden out of baldness,” as Angelle says. “I wore all the prototypes,” Danielle says proudly. “I got so many compliments that we decided to go into business. Now we’re in 400 stores across the country and every major cancer center.” They’ve even done a few special beanies for cancer brides. “I think we’ve done four of those,” says Danielle. “Angelle creates them personally.” The positive response from other cancer patients has been overwhelming. “I’m just in awe about how much it’s taken off in the past three years,” says Danielle. “Some of the emails we get from women make me cry. I hate to sell ’em, to tell you the truth. There are so many women with cancer out there.” “After my own cancer, I didn’t want to deal with it again,” admits Angelle. “Once my sister was diagnosed, I felt called by God to help others with cancer. I feel blessed that Chemo Beanies can help women while they’re suffering; that it’s part of their lives.”

Chemo Beanies is located at 109 Revuelta Court; San Clemente, CA 92672. Phone: (866) 526-2001; Fax: (949) 315-3354. contact@ chemobeanies.com. ChemoBeanies.com. September-October 2013 97

“You have to become your own advocate,” Angelle says. “You have to become a doctor of whatever cancer you have. Visit the right places on the Internet; get the books. Your oncologist is treating numerous cancers and knows about thousands more, but they can’t be your sole doctor 24/7. Dr. Saux did a great job, a perfect job. But you always have to be on top of your medical care. Let the doctor be a doctor, but make sure you’re getting the right treatment and care. “Looking back on it, the hardest part wasn’t the multiple surgeries, chemo and medical stuff—the hardest part was afterward,” Angelle says. “You have post-traumatic stress disorder, and you can’t even imagine what life was like before cancer. You are a different person post-cancer whether you want to be or not. You have to deal with the emotional aspects and ask yourself, ‘How am I gonna center my life now that cancer is out of the picture?’” Angelle found her center at her kids’ track meets. “When I was told I had a 34 percent chance of living, I told God, ‘If you let me live, and my kids get older, I’ll do what you lead me to do.’ I had this great still

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motion camera that captured movement,” she says. “I felt I needed to take photos of every kid out on the track, and I posted them online where parents and kids could see them. I thought if I had to sit there anyway, I might as well do something for everybody.” Angelle was approached by Louisiana MileSplit, an affiliate of U.S. MileSplit, which covers track and field sports worldwide, to provide photos and videos of the events she attends for their website. The relationship has grown, and she now works for them, as well as on freelance shoots, such as a paid spot on the photography crew for the New Balance Outdoor Nationals. With fierce pride, Angelle says, “My crazy mom photography kindness has turned into me potentially shooting at the Olympics. I feel like I was blessed with cancer. Cancer was the best thing that ever happened to me. In the end, it did turn out to be a life-changing experience in good ways. Looking at and living life differently and appreciating things, learning things and meeting different people—a lot of good comes out of suffering.” Angelle and her sister Danielle are also reaching

Susan Bopp.

out to cancer patients throughout the country with Chemo Beanies, which provides soft and stylish head coverings for cancer patients. (See page 97.)

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Susan Bopp Diagnosed August 2006 at age 40 No evidence of disease since February 2009 “How often do close friends have backto-back cancer?” asks Susan Bopp, who was diagnosed with HER2-positive cancer in August 2006—just one year after her dear friend Angelle Albright. “She was the first person I’d ever walked through cancer with,” Susan explains. “Our kids were together almost every day.” While her father’s sister had breast cancer, there are no other known occurrences in Susan’s family history, a situation that made Susan responsible about her exams, but not overly concerned. “I was overdue for a mammogram, but I was busy working on Fleur de Lis Tees, our Hurricane Katrina >>

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victims fundraising program, so I didn’t really want to go. My husband said, ‘You cancelled it before; you have to go.’” Thankfully, Susan listened, because the mammogram provided troubling results. Told she’d have to wait and go under anesthesia for a full biopsy, Susan asked for a more immediate option. “I had Dr. Celeste Lagarde do the biopsy right there in her office and asked if I could see the tumor afterward. I’d never really been sick before, but next thing I know, there I am, sitting in the surgeon’s office, holding my tumor in my fingers.” The biopsy results came back positive, and with concerns that it might be a rare form of cancer, Susan and her husband traveled to Sloan-Kettering in New York. There, they learned they had everything necessary to treat her cancer in Louisiana, and returned home, where Dr. Stolier at Omega Hospital in Metairie performed a mastectomy on Susan’s right breast. Unfortunately, they discovered the cancer had spread further than initially believed, forcing her to have a second mastectomy on the left side. “There were complications after the second surgery,” says Susan, “and I went through a total of five surgeries in three years, plus six months of chemo and two years of Herceptin. I postponed my final reconstruction, which I don’t recommend. At the time, I thought, ‘I cannot do any more surgery.’ It wasn’t until far too much later I had two more surgeries. It just lengthened the mental process. “To face cancer, you find yourself fighting for your life and feeling vulnerable on every front,” Susan explains. “While many of us are fortunate to have great doctors and family supporting us, the fight is inevitably a singular one. No one can do it for you.

“The science behind everything was really confusing,” Susan says, with a lingering tone of frustration. “You get to a point where you want one answer and one thing to do, and there just isn’t one way. Handling the spiritual and mental challenges felt easier and safer. I tried to learn from my doctors and gathered lots of information and research to make the best decisions, but it always felt like a gamble with my own body, because there is no one right answer.” Her advice to new cancer patients? “Just surrender to the fact that you’re not going to get all the answers. There’s going to be a lot of unknowns; get comfortable with the uncomfortable.” Susan also strongly encourages making treatment decisions to protect your mind and body, and staying as active as possible on both fronts. “Chemo brain really exists. It’s been one of the most difficult things to work with,” she says. “I faced my cancer with a really deep resolve. I knew that whatever I focused on the most, I was going to get more of, so I really focused on life.” She also found strength by reading stories from the Bible. “You could see other people’s challenges and how they faced them. They were a real model for me. Managing life’s typical responsibilities and trying to conquer a battle for your life is an interesting conquest to pursue. Finding the strength to overcome such a threat is nothing short of divine. “Mentally, though, you grow. It’s an opportunity for growth. It can be a real defining experience for a woman to step back and decide, ‘Who am I and what do I want my life to be about?’ And if you’ve been casual about that until now, cancer spurs you to be more purposeful and to really consider the deeper parts of life and how you impact others.”

IN Better Health

by Kaley Boudreaux

with Dr. Kelly Burkenstock AFTER THE BIRTH of her three children, Dr. Kelly Burkenstock elected to have a breast lift and augmentation. Many years later, her implants became firm and asymmetrical, a condition known as capsular contracture. After consulting with her plastic surgeon and discussing the age and type (saline) of her current implants, she decided that a replacement surgery with silicone implants would be a good option. Six months after the replacement surgery, Dr. Burkenstock was alarmed as the new silicone implants also developed contracture, becoming asymmetrical, firmer and misshapen. After several appointments with her plastic surgeon and not wanting to undergo another surgery, she began a search for an alternative. Dr. Burkenstock’s research led her to Tim Weyant, physical therapist and developer of the 102

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Aspen Rehabilitation Treatment, as well as to Dr. Hilton Becker, an advocate of the Aspen Method. (Dr. Becker, a recognized expert in breast reconstructive surgery, is best known as the inventor of the adjustable breast implant.) She learned that the Aspen treatment of capsular contracture uses a nonsurgical painless technique featuring external ultrasound that introduces painless waves of energy to the surface of the hardening implant. The treatment continues with physical therapy, breast manipulation exercises and medication. Impressed with the Aspen Method, Dr. Burkenstock became one of only nine providers nationwide that are trained and licensed to offer the treatment. Under her direction, the protocol was used by her staff to treat her. “I was a successful patient. My breasts are now soft, supple and symmetrical— and no further surgery is required,” she says. As a result of her positive experience, Dr. Burkenstock wants women who are affected by capsular contracture—even if mild—to be aware of the nonsurgical option. “My mission is to educate and help women,” she says. “I believe there is a genuine need for this treatment. Mild capsular contracture rates are thought by some to be as high as 50 percent. The Aspen Method can improve capsular contracture in more than 80 percent of patients without further surgery.” One of Dr. Burkenstock’s patients—we’ll call her Ann—had capsular contracture of her implants and, in addition, a lump of scar tissue from an injury that was at least the size of a half dollar. The implant was getting harder, so the scar tissue was more noticeable, and Ann thought she might need surgery to remove it. Dr. Burkenstock determined that she was a good candidate for the Aspen treatment. After researching the procedure, Ann went for treatment three times a week for three weeks. She says, “It takes time, but it was worth it to me. Each session took about an hour, and I did exercises at home on the in-between days. There is nothing

photo: RITA POWERS

Health Concern: Capsular contracture of breast implants Treatment: Aspen Rehabilitation Treatment

uncomfortable about the ultrasound machine, which was used for 30 minutes on each breast during a visit. At home, I got into the hot tub and massaged even more.” Dr. Burkenstock told Ann that she really responded well to the treatment, which helped the hardening of the implants and also got rid of the scar tissue. Ann says, “The procedure really does work. It kept me from going into surgery for the scar tissue. The main thing is that my implants feel healthy; they feel natural, and there is no discomfort. They are so soft, and they don’t look round and hard anymore. My significant other says, ‘Wow! I can’t tell you even have implants.’ I am extremely pleased!” Two different patients, with the same diagnosis, the same treatment and the same successful results. Dr. Burkenstock continues to use her own experience to help other women, saying, “Because we are so worth it!” And as for Ann, she says, “It will be interesting when I go for my mammogram in October, because that hard lump is not there anymore. Or at least I can’t find it.” Capsular contracture is a situation that can happen to breast augmentation patients. When a breast implant is inserted, the patient’s body responds by forming a lining around the implant, referred to as a capsule. This is a normal response. In certain patients, that lining can harden and constrict the implant. When this occurs, it is referred to as capsular contracture. In the most severe cases, the constricted capsule around the implant can become painful, as well as distort the shape, texture and placement of the implant. The cause of capsular contraction is believed to be multi-factorial and not triggered by any single aspect. Plastic surgery researchers are actively engaged in trying to recognize the causes in greater detail. September-October 2013 103

Right: Heather Mahoney, Honey, and Holli Gaspard. Below: Join Heather and Holli in their fight against Alzheimer’s by

photo courtesy: HEATHER MAHONEY AND HOLLI GASPARD

adding a purple hair extension, available at H2O Salon, to your hair during the month of September. Purple ties are available at H. W. Rosenblum in Mandeville.

Putting Her Lips On by Heather Mahoney and Holli Gaspard

Our Alzheimer’s journey with Honey

“POWDER AND PAINT make a girl what she ain’t.” Our mother, Honey, signed up for Metairie Beauty School when she was 35. She was a loving mom who always knew the meaning of hard work and was determined to make a better life for her five kids. Honey always said, “The difference between a good haircut and a bad haircut is two weeks.” Well, the difference between your world before someone you love is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and after is everything. Your whole life changes in an instant. Honey was 72 when we first started seeing signs of dementia. We watched this vivacious, sparkling, beautiful woman, whose conversations were filled with “Honeyisms” about life and beauty, gradually become fearful, confused, apprehensive and withdrawn. We knew something was wrong, but we didn’t know what until the diagnosis in November 2007. Our mom was in denial after the diagnosis, and so were we. We couldn’t even say the word Alzheimer’s. When she 104

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was forgetful, we covered for her. When she needed a wheelchair, we played it off, saying, “Oh, you’re so lucky. You get to ride around all day.” “Plan your work and work your plan.” We really did believe she could overcome this. We went to a local research doctor and spent a year travelling the country looking for help, from California to Florida. We did experimental treatments with a local doctor, and even met with Dr. Daniel Amen, who wrote Change Your Brain, Change Your Life. Eventually, we settled into the routine we have now. Honey lives at home with our dad and receives excellent private care. For years, she still put on her lipstick every morning. “Let me put my lips on.” But now she doesn’t walk, talk or even put her lips on. But we still put them on for her. We’re a family of doers. In this past year or so, as things have gotten worse, it’s become more and more frustrating that we can’t do anything but keep our mom comfortable. If Honey could talk, >>

Fighting Alzheimer’s Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. Ultimately, Alzheimer’s is fatal, and currently, there is no cure. A neuroscience research effort is underway to develop a new generation of more effective treatments. Because new drugs take years to produce from concept to market—and because drugs that seem promising in early-stage studies may not work as hoped in large-scale trials—it is critical that research on Alzheimer’s and related dementias continues to accelerate. Currently, there are five FDA-approved Alzheimer’s drugs that treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, temporarily helping memory and thinking problems in about half of the people who take them. But these medications do not treat the underlying causes of Alzheimer’s. In contrast, many of the new drugs in development aim to modify the disease process itself by impacting one or more of the many wide-ranging brain changes that Alzheimer’s causes. These changes offer potential targets for new drugs to stop or slow the progress of the disease. Many researchers believe successful treatment will eventually involve a “cocktail” of medications aimed at several targets, similar to current state-of-the-art treatments for many cancers and AIDS. Dr. Robert Clark, a molecular biologist in Chapel Hill, N.C., conducting Alzheimer’s research, notes there is great progress being made in its prevention and cure. He asks that you help by raising money for research, writing your local politicians to have them provide funds and finally, by donating your affected loved one’s body to science. There is still so much to be learned.

For more information on Alzheimer’s, visit alz.org. September-October 2013 105

she would tell us to help others to not get this disease. We have become even more determined to make a difference in other people’s lives out of respect to our mom. We invite you to join with us to stop Alzheimer’s. With one-in-three expected to have Alzheimer’s by 2050, it’s time we got serious about finding a cure.

Color for the Cure—Go Purple! Just as pink is for breast cancer and red is for aids, the color for Alzheimer’s is purple. We came up with Color for the Cure, a month-long fundraising effort for September, which is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. H.W. Rosenblum will feature a purple tie and

Charlotte’s Journey As the wife of a doctor, Charlotte Overton brought a different perspective to her Alzheimer’s journey with him. In most respects, however, their experience was similar to countless others. Over the course of their many happy years together, life took them all the way from New Orleans to California and back. Clayton enjoyed a successful career as an orthopedic surgeon, Charlotte taught first grade, they raised two sons and traveled to different parts of the world. When subtle changes were diagnosed as early symptoms of Alzheimer’s, Charlotte began to prepare for a new future. “Clayton was not always the calm man I knew. He was frustrated and frightened, so he 106

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H2O salons will offer a $20 purple hair extension that can last for weeks, or be easily removed. Think LSU games! And on Sept. 20, all retail proceeds at H2O will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association.

2013 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Last year, our Walk to End Alzheimer’s raised $40,000. Our clients, our friends, everyone supported Honey’s Bunch, our walking team. We were a Top 15 fundraiser nationwide. This year, we’re doing the walks on the northshore and southshore, and we’re going for Top 10. Register for one or more of these walks. PONCHATOULA/HAMMOND: Sat., Oct. 5, Ponchatoula Recreation Park, 8 a.m. NEW ORLEANS: Sat., Oct. 19, Audubon Park, 8 a.m.

Fontainebleau State Park, 8 a.m. To register and for more information, visit alz.org/walk or contact Preston Meche at (504) 648-4076.

would get angry. He could not learn anything new and was forgetting as well,” she says, adding, “But a person with Alzheimer’s can be taught a habit, such as going to the dining hall at the same time every day to eat.” With both her husband and a son doctors, Charlotte appreciated the need for ongoing research into Alzheimer’s, so after Clayton died, she donated his body to Tulane,

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

NORTHSHORE: Sat., Nov. 16,

where he attended medical school. She encourages others to do so, emphasizing the respectful and caring way his ashes were returned to her for burial. Charlotte advises anyone with a relative or friend with Alzheimer’s to get all the information you can—educate yourself. She recommends the book, The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for Persons with Alzheimer Disease, Related Dementing Illnesses, and Memory Loss in Later Life, which is available in paperback from amazon. com. Charlotte also suggests joining a support group. She attended the Alzheimer’s Support Group at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Paul D. Cordes Outpatient Pavilion in Covington. The group meets the last Wednesday of every month at noon. For more information, call (985)871-6095. And lastly, advocate for funds and research to be dedicated to eradicating Alzheimer’s.

Above: Heather Mahoney and Holli Gaspard. Inset: Charlotte and Clayton Overton.

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M E D I C A L

Dr. Lindsay Wells

Audubon Fertility & Reproductive Medicine Because she herself experienced infertility, Dr. Lindsay Wells is uniquely able to provide meaningful insight and compassionate perspectives to couples struggling with infertility. The New Orleans native and fertility specialist at Audubon Fertility & Reproductive Medicine has always been extremely passionate about infertility. She knew from a young age that her ultimate goal was to help people fulfill their dreams of having a family. But before she completed her advanced medical training, Lindsay was shocked to find that there was a serious concern about her own reproductive potential. Her ovarian reserve (the quantity and quality of the eggs she had left) was similar to that of a woman in her mid-40s. “Diminished ovarian reserve, particularly when it’s premature, can be one of the toughest diagnoses to explain to patients because unfortunately there are no treatments that can reverse that process. In vitro fertilization (IVF) with donor eggs can be a highly effective treatment option

P R O F I L E

for patients with this condition; however, I wanted to at least try IVF with my own eggs first.” Lindsay’s first cycle on maximum doses of medications was unsuccessful. She tried again, and ended up with only one follicle, so the process was converted into an intrauterine insemination cycle, which is much less involved than IVF. This time it worked! “I was sure that was the last egg I would ever make. Then one day, it dawned on me why I was feeling so exhausted—baby number two was a very welcomed surprise for us!” Lindsay began her study of medicine by studying biology and neurochemistry—which has a tie-in to endocrinology—at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She then returned to New Orleans to attend medical school at Louisiana State University before completing a residency in Obstetrics & Gynecology at Ochsner Health Systems. From there, Lindsay was accepted into the University of Iowa’s fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility—one of the top singleembryo transfer training programs in the nation. After completing her fellowship, Lindsay returned to New Orleans to open a practice. “Keeping in mind that I wanted to serve New Orleanians and the surrounding community with the best possible fertility care, I partnered with Vivere Health, a national healthcare organization, to build a state-of-the-art surgical facility and IVF lab locally to ensure the best possible pregnancy rates—utilizing single embryo transfers whenever possible. “I know firsthand how infertility can take over people’s lives and put a major strain on a couple’s relationship, so I try to make my patient’s experiences as stress-free as possible,” says Lindsay. “It’s also very important for me to take the time to answer all of my patient’s questions, so they don’t feel the need to read things on the internet.” As a fertility specialist, the ultimate reward for Lindsay has been fulfilling the goal she set for herself as a young girl—to help people fulfill their dreams of having a family.

To contact Dr. Wells at Audubon Fertility & Reproductive Medicine, call (504) 891-1390; info@audubonfertility.com.

Vivere Health partners with local physician specialists across the United States to create integrated, multi-specialty Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) and laboratories. Vivere–Audubon, a state-of-the-art surgery center, will serve New Orleans and surrounding communities beginning September 2013. For more information about Vivere, visit viverehealth.com. 108

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1. Louisiana-inspired. Pelican tray designed by Connie

Mickle, $95. Accents & Things, Slidell, 649-4273. 2. Go wild! Handcrafted zebra-print purse with beaded embellishment, $58.

Bea Connick Linen Apparel, Bay St. Louis, Miss., (228) 467-2800.

3. Ice cold. Longneck beer bottle chiller, $30. Niche Modern Home, Mandeville, 624-4045. 4. Frog Heaven. 30x24 oil on canvas by Peggy Hesse, $500. Three Rivers Gallery, Covington, 892-2811. 5. Great for fall. Ginko leaf plate, $28.50. Silverplated glass. Infusé, Mandeville, 778-0903. 6. Heartwarming. Homemade cards for all occasions, including breast cancer survivor cards, survivor kits and awareness gifts. Cards, $3.50 each. Artisan Home Décor, Mandeville, 7782113. 7. Crab claws. Decorative crab that can be used as a bookend or wine holder, $25. Purple Armadillo Again, Slidell, 6432004. 8. St. Peregrine, the patron saint of cancer patients, sculpted by John Hodge, $40. Rug Chic, Mandeville, 674-1070. 9. Sip in style. Antique English tea caddy and sterling silver cream-and-sugar set

decorated with repousé wreath. Caddy, $135; cream and sugar, $325. History Antiques & Interiors, Covington, 892-0010.

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1. Exotic décor. Tang Dynasty-style decorative horse, $144. Berger Home, Mandeville, 624-3433. 2. Glittery

goodness. Witch’s Spell bottles accented by green and purple glitter

with bells, $36 each. Arabella Fine Gifts & Home Décor, Mandeville, 727-9787. 3. A piece of history. Architectural fragment. St. Romain Interiors, Madisonville, 845-7411. 4. Go faux! Faux botanical arrangement, $65.

Florist of Covington, Covington 8927701. 5. Center of attention. Beverage tub made of solid pewter, $185. the french mix, Covington, 809-3152. 6. Travel in style. Cosmetic bag by Eufora, $42. Includes Beautifying Serum, Elevate Finishing Spray and your favorite shampoo and conditioner. Studio 311 Salon, Covington, 327-7775. 7. Final touch. Hand-painted textured ceramic 6

serving pieces featuring the artwork of Clementine Hunter, $115-$168. Hazelnut, Mandeville, 626-8900. 8. French flair. French Jacquard François linen towels, $24 each. Hestia Linens, Covington, 893-0490.

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1. Spicy! Traditional Egyptian recipes for Dukkah Spice Blends, $10.95 each. Oil & Vinegar, Covington, 809-1693. 2. Oink, oink! Metal and cloth decorative pig, $45. mélange by KP, Mandeville, 807-7652. 3. Eye-catching. Antique-glazed blue and white handled vase, $259. EMB Interiors, Mandeville, 626-1522. 4. It’s huge! Colorful, 4

oversized Serendipity tote, $38.99. All Wrapped Up, Mandeville, 778-2041. 5. Get wild. Wooden

giraffe, $58. deCoeur Gifts & Home Accessories, Covington, 809-3244. 6. Geaux Tigers. Tailgating ice bucket, $30. The Grapevine, Covington, 893-2766. 7. Illuminating style. Handmade “Nancy” sconces, $900 per pair. Chris Wynne Designs. chriswynnedesigns.tumblr. com. 8. T-I-G-E-R-S! White ice chest accented with purple background and LSU tiger logo by Igloo; LSU thermos with handle by Igloo. Ice chest, large, $66.50; thermos, large, $14.95. Poole Lumber Company, Covington, 892-4500. 9. Tailgating made easy. Folding chair with fold-out side table, side pockets and carry 6

strap, $79. Outdoor Living Center, Covington, 893-8008.

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Andrea Kopfler of Bra La Vie! WHEN ANDREA KOPFLER OPENED Bra La Vie! in February 2012, she had a unique vision in mind—to own a bra salon that not only sold lingerie and undergarments, but also prostheses and mastectomy bras for breast cancer survivors. Walking by the French-inspired lingerie shop in downtown Hammond, you might be surprised to know that Bra La Vie! is actually a certified Medicare breast prosthesis provider. Andrea spent 16 years as a registered nurse working in oncology, surgical services and postoperative recovery before going into the retail lingerie business. Seeing so many women in recovery from mastectomies, she noticed a problem that she knew she could solve. The only way women could 114

Inside Northside

by Kaley Boudreaux

buy mastectomy products was through medical equipment companies—supply stores that sell items such as oxygen tanks, wheelchairs and crutches. “People talk about breast cancer awareness, but nobody talks about what these ladies have to do after they have surgery. They are left to figure things out for themselves and have nowhere comfortable to go for help,” says Andrea. “I came up with the idea that if I opened a lingerie shop, I could create a pleasant environment for everyone to buy bras. There was no reason breast cancer survivors couldn’t shop in the same environment and have that same experience.” Helping post-surgical breast cancer patients avoid medical supply stores for something as personal and intimate as prosthesis fitting is a beautiful goal! And thus began Andrea’s journey to opening Bra La Vie! With an idea in mind, she and her husband, Bill, booked a trip to New York to research the industry. “With appointments at every bra salon I could find, I looked at the way they were set up and let them fit me for a bra. It was important for me to research the bra-fitting experience—to find out what I liked and didn’t like.” Andrea returned to Louisiana, formed a business plan, hired a consultant, purchased inventory and opened the store in early 2012. Although neither she nor her husband had any retail experience, opening the store was the easy part. Becoming a certified breast prosthesis provider? That was not so easy. The entire process took approximately 16 months. “It has been quite an extensive, long-drawn-out process to become a provider for Medicare. Although Bill was incredibly supportive throughout the whole process, at first he didn’t get it. Then he came with me on a trip where he attended a mastectomy fitting class that was part of getting my accreditation. When we got on the plane that evening, I felt very overwhelmed and I said, ‘I don’t know if I can do this. And he said, ‘You have got to do this.’ For the first time, he really got it; he knew why I felt it was important. Seeing the products and talking to the people made it start to

photo: JOHNNY CHAUVIN PHOTOGRAPHY

IN Good Company

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sink in for him that this was something that was important to these women— and it needed to be done. At that point, I really knew he was behind me.” Andrea received her accreditation from Medicare just a few months ago. She can now apply to other insurance companies to become a provider. As of now, she accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Humana and hopes to partner with more insurance companies in the future. Although her days are spent in the store working with clients, Andrea still maintains her registered nursing license. When a woman comes into her shop feeling nervous or embarrassed about a fitting, Andrea hopes her nursing experience puts the customer at ease. “I tell them I am a nurse and I have seen it all. I hope that makes them comfortable. They are sharing personal things with me, and I work very hard to make the experience pleasant. It is such an intimate thing,” she says. Andrea notes that there are many different types of prostheses, and they are not solely for women who have chosen to forego reconstructive surgery. Bra La Vie! has silicone and non-silicone prostheses, full prostheses, partial prostheses, postoperative camisoles that have pouches for surgical drains, and even prostheses that are meant for swimming and exercising. All are covered by Medicare and most insurance providers. While these mastectomy products are what Andrea is most passionate about and got her started in the business, the store is helping all women feel more beautiful. In addition to bras, Bra La Vie! carries an extensive selection of lingerie, panties, shapewear and pajamas. “A lot of people are not familiar with bra fitting salons. We measure you for size and fit the bras specifically to you,” says Andrea. “We can perfectly fit the very tiny, petiteframed women all the way up to a size 116

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photos: JOHNNY CHAUVIN PHOTOGRAPHY

50 band and N bra cup, and everything in between. Even though you may pay a little more up front, the bras will last longer. You are getting a better quality product, so the bra holds up and gives you the support you need.” Andrea recommends that all women get a bra fitting. “There are so many women out there wearing the wrongsize bra. I was over age 40 and had four children and had never had a fitting. I wore the wrong-size bra for years. I don’t even know where I got that bra size from,” she jokes. “I think I made it up in my head and it sounded good to me.” Andrea now has two certified bra fitters to help her run the store, Linda Bonaccorso and Catherine Monica. “They are absolutely wonderful. I just feel so fortunate and so lucky to have them. I always know that if I need to leave the shop, they are going to take good care of the customers,” she says.

What does Andrea want most for people to know about the store? “I can’t make this work by myself. We all have to make it work. The mastectomy products cannot support the store alone. The store has to make it so those ladies with mastectomies will have a place to shop.” What a wonderful way for all of us to do our part! Bra La Vie! is located at 221 W. Thomas St. in Hammond. (985) 662-5065. bralavie.com. Facebook. Editor’s Note: Bra la Vie! has received the 2013 Best of Intima European Flair Award, which is given to a boutique with a continental feel and large selection of imported brands. The Best of Intima Awards honor North America’s best independent retailers in lingerie, swimwear and loungewear. September-October 2013 117

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PURPLE AND PINK 1. Pink and fuchsia purse with glitter and rhinestone metallic accents, $72. Azure Spa, Mandeville, 727-7799. 2. Dinner ring with 4.66cttw amethyst and 1.6cttw diamond in 14kt white gold, $2,900. Boudreaux’s Fine Jewelers, Mandeville, 626-1666. 3. Purple v-neck silk shirt accented with mother-of5

pearl buttons on sleeve, $42. brown eyed girl, Mandeville, 626-0100. 4. LSU infant gown, $25.99; booties, $8.99. Available in pink or purple. Anne’s Boutique, Mandeville, 635-1496. 5. Sleeveless gold and purple dress with scoop neck by Joy Joy, $112. Paisley Boutique, Mandeville, 727-7880. 6. 100% cotton purple and gold collared shirts by Thomas Dean, $115 each. Bastille’s Clothing Company, Mandeville, 626-4220.

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PURPLE AND PINK 1. 18kt yellow-and-white gold ring with 1.85ct pink tourmaline accented with .22cttw diamonds, $1,759. Loweâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jewelers, Mandeville, 845-6453. 2. Swarovski double-oval purple crystal earrings, $298. Fleurt, Covington, 809-8844. 3. Purple and red Alice Trixie maxi dress, $260. The Mix, Mandeville, 727-7649. 4. Purple leather push-lock clutch accented by gold-tone hardware and optional gold chain shortening strap, $49. Laurier, Covington, 875-0823. 5. 100% cotton lavender Tailored Fit sport shirt, $87.50; 100% silk executive collection pink tie, $79.50. JoS. A. Bank, Mandeville, 624-4067. 6. Glossy violet short rain boots with authentic original buckle by Hunter, $130. Emmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shoes and Accessories, Mandeville, 778-2200.

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PURPLE AND PINK 1. Slim silhouette halter gown in Mardi Gras purple from Jolene. $319. Columbia Street Mercantile, Covington, 809-1789 & 809-1690. 2. Pink tourmaline and diamond pendant in rose gold, $525. DeLucaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Expressions in Gold, Covington, 892-2317. 3. 1.72cttw pink sapphire and .57cttw diamond double-halo fashion ring in 18kt white gold, $5,075. De Boscq Jewelry, Mandeville, 892-2317. 4. URU Country Shirt and Mary Frances hand-beaded silk scarf. Scarf available in a variety of colors. Shirt, $155; scarf, $120. California Drawstrings Northshore, Covington, 3277300. 5. Light-purple jeans by DL1961, $178. Eros Home & Clothing, Mandeville, 727-0037. 6. Professional flower power. Shoes by Dansko, $135. Earthsavers, Mandeville, 674-1133. 5

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PURPLE AND PINK 1. Fitted fuchsia chevron dress with low back, $34. JuJuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Boutique, Mandeville, 624-3600. 2. Pink knit dress, $38. Posh Boutique,

Covington, 898-2639. 3. Yoana Baraschi color-blocked dress, $302. The Villa, Mandeville, 6269797. 4. Cameo rose and Sunkist coral lace bra and panties from Elle Macpherson Intimates. Bra, $62; panties, $30. Bra la Vie!, Hammond, 662-5065. 5. Gabriel & Co. sterling silver bracelet with 4.28ct amethyst and 1.29ct garnet, $1,260. Thomas Franks Fine Jewelers, Mandeville, 626-5098. 6. Bejeweled flip flops by Grazie, $67. You-Tique, Mandeville, 327-7102.

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PURPLE AND PINK 1 3 2

1. Purple-and-gold tone asymmetric earrings, $15.99. Private Beach, Mandeville, 727-4007. 2. Hippie chic! Purple and turquoise tie-dye tunic by BILA and white linen pants by ELAN. Tunic, $77; pants, $44. Three Sisters

Boutique, Ponchatoula, 386-8680. 3. Manolo Blahnik purple Hangisi jewel pumps, $965. Saks Fifth Avenue, New Orleans, (504) 524-2200. 4. Chevron pink

and purple knit maxi dress, $58. O Spa, Mandeville, 792-0270. 5. Venice lace and satin sheath gown with scalloped cap sleeves, hand-beaded illusion bateau neckline, open-back bodice and pleated satin empire waist, $836. Southern Bridal, Mandeville, 727-2993. 6. Pink and purple nail polish by OPI, $8.50 each. Dark pink, Strawberry Margarita; purple, Vant to Bite my Neck?; light pink, Pink Galore. Oasis Day Spa, Mandeville, 624-6772.

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Inside Northside

September-October 2013 127

PURPLE AND PINK 2

1. Lady’s 14kt white-gold fashion ring with a cushioncut amethyst stone surrounded by 20 round pink sapphires, $750. Champagne Jewelers, Slidell, 643-2599. 2. Dimmi shoes, $69. Shoefflé, Covington, 8986465. 3. Super-soft pajamas made in the USA, $80. George’s Girls, Bay St. Louis, Miss., (228) 216-0558.

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Inside Northside

September-October 2013 129

November 3, 2013

Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2013 The Harvest Cup Polo Classic is the Junior League of Greater Covington’s largest fundraiser event of the year. The only sophisticated polo event in Louisiana, it is a big draw for the polo and horse industries. This year’s polo chair is Melody Hinojosa. Melody has a background in hotel and restaurant event planning and was in “chair training” last year. “I was used to paying everyone for participating in events, and now the challenge is to get donations. The community has been great—so helpful and so supportive.” Proceeds from the Harvest Cup Polo Classic

contents

sustain the league throughout the year and help fund its many projects, including Read for the Record, Northlake Behavioral Hospital, Career Corner, Project Prom, Museum Without Walls, Kids in the Kitchen, New Heights and the Children’s Museum of St. Tammany.

4 Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2013 Committee and Advisory Council 6 Hats Off to Yvonne LeFleur

The league also assists other charities with start-up before they operate independently, trains volunteers for the league and other groups and supplies event staffing.

save the date! The Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2013 is Sunday, Nov. 3 at Leah Farms of Louisiana in Folsom. For more information, visit jlgc.net or call 892-5258.

10 Schedule of Events; Polo Nuts and Bolts 12 Polo Artists 17 JLGC Community Programs 21 Silent Auction Items 22 The Sport of Kings Played by everyone. Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2013 3

Back row (left to right): Chad Berg, Nikki Plunkett, Jaime Burchfield and Sharon Lo Drucker. Front row (left to right): Theresa Heraty, Cindy Petry, Cheryl Haspel, Melody Hinojosa, Sheila Dugger, Janice Perkins and Shawna Hunt. Not pictured: Fonda Brennan, Katie Brooks, Mary Culepper, Eric

Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2013 Committee and Polo Advisory Council

Dunavant, Stephanie Dupepe, Jonee Ferrand, Crystal Cook Ferris, Tonya Hansel, Lexa McDaniel, Daphne Meyer, Bailey Morse, Stacey Page, Celia Palazzo, Doug Parsons, Vee Pigg, Jennifer Rice, Leslie Robinson, Cynthia Schaefer, Annie Spell, Tina Taylor, Beth Van Delden, and Leigh Ann Wall.

November 3, 11:30am-5:30pm

General Admission Ticket $100 VIP Lounge Access Ticket $25 Reserved Table for 6 $750 Go to www.jlgc.net to purchase tickets.

Junior League of Greater Covington

Mission Statement The Junior League of Greater Covington is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

速

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF GREATER COVINGTON

Women building better communities 速

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Get Your Harvest Cup Polo Classic Tickets Now!

by Becky Schoen

Hats Off to Yvonne LaFleur “A hat is a flag, a shield, a bit of armor, and the badge of femininity. A hat is the difference between wearing clothes and wearing a costume; it’s the difference between being dressed and being dressed up; it’s the difference between looking adequate and looking your best. A hat is to be stylish in, to glow under, to flirt beneath, to make all others seem jealous over, and to make all men feel masculine about. A piece of magic is a hat.”

WHILE THE HEYDAY of the hat may have passed us by, the

events like the northshore’s Harvest Cup Polo Classic are

hat is by no means passé. Certain occasions require nothing

just a few such occasions. Oddly enough, the love affair

less than a fabulous creation of felt, ribbons and feathers to

between hats and horses is entirely due to inclement

speak for us: “I can carry this off.”

weather. Umbrellas were not permitted at the races (a rule

High tea, royal weddings and many horse-related

still in effect today), and a hat not only served as protection

A Stroll Through Polo

Enjoy the Food Tent filled with a sumptuous buffet.

Get an up-close look at champions in the Parade of Breeds.

Event festivities kick off at 11:30am.

Junior League of Greater Covington

Food, drinks and fun are staples of the Harvest Cup.

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

-- Martha Sliter

from the rain but made a fashion statement as well. For generations, ladies have gone to New Orleans icon

but she blames a different culprit. “In the ’60s, the whole world became enamored with the ‘California girl.’ She was

Yvonne LaFleur for that perfect piece of millinery. She’s

carefree; she had long hair, with maybe just a plain hat

been designing and creating hats for them and her loyal

thrown on her head, nothing fancy. The hat-and-glove thing

following of out-of-town clients for more than four decades.

was gone after that.” Hats did make a modest comeback in

Yvonne fashioned 10 hats for the wedding of Prince William

the ’70s, but they would never recover their former status.

and Kate Middleton and has supplied hats worn for the

New Orleans is something of an exception, in that its

Royal Ascot race at the famous English racecourse as well

deep Southern traditions are slower to fade. Many of the city’s

as for U.S. polo matches with a royal prince on the field.

time-honored social occasions, such as the Easter Parade and

Yvonne was born in California but moved to New

certain Mardi Gras festivities, still call for the perfect hat. And

Orleans as a young girl. Growing up, she lived with her

though the ladies of the city continue to go to Yvonne for that

mother and three aunts, all of whom worked in retail on

perfect hat, it’s by no means the wardrobe staple it once was.

Canal Street and taught her everything they knew about fashion and sewing. Raised in an era without television,

The millinery industry that once occupied eight square blocks in New York City is now reduced to one block, on one

Yvonne found creative ways to entertain herself. Instead of making doll clothes, she learned to alter her mother’s and aunts’ clothes to fit herself; by the age of 11, she could create and sew a complete garment without a pattern. As a young woman, Yvonne worked for the three great downtown department stores, Godchaux’s, D.H. Holmes and Maison Blanche, earning about $50 a week. In 1969, she decided it was time for a change. With some borrowed seed money, Yvonne opened her first shop, a tiny space within a 10,000-square-foot structure. When she opened her doors, she specialized in blue jeans! She did the alterations herself and advertised to the mothers of New Orleans that she could clothe their daughters in custom-fit jeans and a t-shirt for $13.78—a far cry from the exquisite hats, haute couture and one-of-a-kind gowns she sells today. By 1972, Yvonne owned the entire building. Ironically, hats were on their way out of vogue just as she started a career selling them. “When the

street. Many of the manufacturers have gone overseas to

Catholic Church told the ladies they no longer had to cover

India and China. “It was really kind of wonderful. The beat

their heads, that eliminated a lot of the millinery support

of the garment industry was there in the ’70s, and it’s gone

industries. There was no longer a need for the ribbons,

forever,” laments Yvonne.

the flowers, the feathers, the netting,” says Yvonne. Many

Married 32 years, Yvonne and her husband met

in the business also point a finger at the bouffant hairdo,

commuting from New Orleans to New York. He has a law

From the sidelines you’ll feel the power of the game. Visit the Art Gallery Tent.

Dance to the music of Karma!

Patrons stomp the divots to preserve the playing field.

Harvest C up Polo Classic 2012 7

Pretty Woman Fancy Hat Contestants 2012 office there and, at the time, she had a factory on 36th Street in Manhattan. With seven children to manage, Yvonne chose to stay closer to home and raise them in New Orleans, “It’s a gentle lifestyle,” she says. And living a mile from the boutique makes for a very easy commute—sometimes she even walks to work. These days, Yvonne travels to Europe to source her materials and boasts one of the finest selections of millinery accoutrement in existence. “My aunt really taught me how to select everything and what to request,” she explains. Her daughter, Stella, works with her at the shop, and Yvonne’s wish is to have her grandchildren carrying the torch in the years to come. For now, though, she is definitely the driving force of fashion at Yvonne LaFleur Boutique. Yvonne says that when buying the trims and forms, “It’s very important to know the textile business.” Armed with her vast knowledge of fabrics, design and fashion, she knows where to buy the best. Her collection of ribbons comes from all around the world; the finest feathers are found in Germany; the netting, flowers and felt forms are purchased in France. She shapes the forms using her aunt’s old hat blocks and then trims them. She also creates unique bridal headpieces to enhance her extensive collection of wedding gowns.

flatter her face. The face is not symmetrical; the left and right

“Millinery is a quick little bit of art,” says Yvonne. When

sides are completely different, so you have to address that

training others to trim her hats, she stresses the importance of a comprehension of art. “You have to see colors put together on

with the balance of the hat.” Yvonne also shares a little secret from the British girls: “Let

canvas, and then you can put those colors together on a hat.”

the presence of your hair show beneath your hat.” Hair, eye color

When buying a hat, the choices are endless, but two

and skin tone balance the face. “Americans think they have to

things are important: is it appropriate for the occasion, and

shove all of their hair under the hat, but then they lose a third of

is it flattering? Duchess of Cambridge Kate has made the

their coloring. Without that balance of coloring, a lady doesn’t

fascinator all the rage, but if you’ve secured an invitation to

look like herself.” And one more thing, “A confident woman is a

sit with the royals at Royal Ascot, protocol demands a wide-

very sexy woman, so you have to have a little bit of confidence

brimmed hat. And the notion, “less is more,” certainly has no

to wear a hat,” says Yvonne. She adds, “And you have to wear

place at the Kentucky Derby, where the horses are forced to

make-up, because all the attention is on your face.”

share the limelight with the headwear.

Perhaps the most important piece of advice Yvonne has

When a lady comes to her boutique in search of the right

to offer on the subject of hats is: “Flirt. It’s a great way to flirt.”

hat, Yvonne has a somewhat scientific approach. She says, “I

She laughs. “Men love ladies in hats, because they look a little

sell her a hat to go with her face and position it on her head to

bit fragile. Whatever else, you’ll get the door opened for you!

There is spirited competition in the Pretty Woman Fancy Hat Contest.

Cocktails and specialty drinks flow all afternoon.

Try your luck at the Lee Michaels Hay Pull.

Excellent silent and live auctions raise funds for outreach projects of the Junior League.

Harvest C up Polo Classic 2012 9

Harvest Cup Polo Classic

2013 Schedule of Events 10:00 – 11:00 Patron Party at the Summergrove practice field 11:30 – 12:00 Parade of Breeds

Polo

Nuts and Bolts New Orleans Polo Club manager Doug Parsons explains the game in a nutshell.

12:00 – 12:10 Call to Post, Color Guard by

Our whole polo world is first and foremost about safety

Covington High School ROTC, National Anthem

for the players and the horses. You have eight guys running 30

sung by Margarita Warren

mph on horses, and a player or horse can get hurt. Enjoyment

comes second.

12:10 – 1:30 Player Introductions, Exhibition Game

The field is 300 yards long by 160 yards wide. The play

(round robin, 6 chukkers)

periods are called chukkers. We play four-chukker polo—four

seven-and-a-half-minute periods with four minutes in between,

1:30 – 2:45 Player Introductions, Feature Game

except between chukkers two and three, which is 10 minutes.

(4 chukkers, divot stomp at half time)

It normally takes an hour to an hour and 15 minutes to play

each match.

2:45 – 3:30 Hat Contest and Live Auction

There are four players on a team. The numbers on the

with Auctioneer Mark Romig

players are one to four. Number one is the most offensive

position and plays upfront. Three is most like the quarterback;

3:30 – 3:45 Awards Ceremony with all teams/stage

he’s the play maker. Four is called the “back,” and his job is to

stay to the back; if the other team gets the ball, he defends the

3:45 – 5:15 Band “Karma”

goal. He’s very mobile, though—he’s not sitting in the middle of the goal posts like a soccer or hockey goalie. The Harvest Cup and a number of our other games have an announcer who explains the game to the audience so it’s not just watching a bunch of horses chasing a ball around a field. The general theory is that you “make a train.” If the number one has the ball and misses, he should continue to go up and let the number two hit to him. Normally, the three or the four will hit up and pass to the player in front of them. The clock is stopped for penalties. Penalties are normally called for someone crossing what’s called the line of the ball, which is the direction the ball is travelling. You have to be on that line to have a play on the ball. It’s not safe to cut across the field at a 90-degree angle and take the ball away. It’s like the interstate. You can be in one of two lanes, but you better be parallel to each other and not cut across the median. It’s not a free-for-all. It’s all about safety.

Junior League of Greater Covington

ART-LOVING POLO AFICIONADOS at the Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2013 will have the chance to bid on original works of art donated by 16 local artists. This year, the highlight of the auction is Gretchen Armbruster’s painting for the official 2013 poster. The Junior League is indebted to all of the artists for their generosity.

Gretchen Armbruster The Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2013 cover artist is Gretchen Armbruster. “It’s such an honor to be chosen as the poster artist!” Gretchen says. “I’ve enjoyed waiting for the poster to come out each year, to see how each artist, such as Susan Sharp and Anne Cicero, creates their representation of this great event. I’m in the company of so many talented St. Tammany Parish artists!” Since opening her fine art school studio in Covington more than a year ago, Gretchen has seen her classes become so popular that she had to add classes and expand her curriculum. She says, “I could never have imagined loving a job so much. Teaching such talented and wonderful 2

people is truly a great thing to wake up and do every day!”

Polo Artists

Well-known as a portrait and landscape artist, Gretchen

works in oils, watercolor and pencil. “I love to paint horses,” she says. “Although I paint many subjects, the movement and beauty of the horse is one of my favorites.” Gretchen paints 8

for galleries across the country, such as Southern Breeze in Jackson, Miss; Taylor Clark Gallery in Baton Rouge; and the 7

Pineapple Gallery and Arabella Fine Gifts and Home Decor in Mandeville. Gretchen’s notable work includes painting the 2004-2006 Crescent City Classic posters, 12 years of elaborate Bacchus designs and extensive murals in the historic French Quarter Old Absinthe House. Her paintings can also be found in St. Tammany Parish Hospital, West Jefferson Hospital, Ochsner

1. Gretchen Armbruster 4. Phil Galatas

7. Chuck R. Wright

Hospital and many restaurants and homes in the area.

2. Hank Holland

5. Christina Brechtel

8. Lissa Lee

Gretchen’s work was seen on the big screen in the movie He

3. Mary deSilva

6. Julia Eves

9. Laura Scrofani Toppeta

Said, She Said. Gretchen studied with area artists such as David Robert

Junior League of Greater Covington

Rosbach, Alan Flattman, David Jinks and at LSU and

capturing the unique culture of Southeast Louisiana on

John McCrady Art College.

canvas and wood.

“I have attended many polo events, and have

John Goodwynne

donated paintings to the Harvest Cup Polo Classic in the past, but this year will be extra special! I look forward

Although he started painting in 1960 and kept at it

to a fantastic day,” Gretchen says. armbrusterartworks.

for 10 years, John Goodwynne put his art on hold while

com.

he pursued a career as a homebuilder for more than 30 years. While he paints a variety of subjects in different

Christina Brechtel Christina Brechtel is a nationally published

media, John’s best known for his nautical-themed watercolors executed in a self-described “realistic

kitchen and bath designer who owns Bella Cucina

impressionism” style. He actively supports community

in Covington. She is married to Beau Fontenot and

causes through donations of his paintings; his work was

has an 18-month-old son, Weston. Christina paints

chosen for the Madisonville Wooden Boat Festival poster

gilded sunset landscapes of Lake Pontchartrain and the

in 2007. His paintings can be seen at the Harbor Shop in

Tchefuncte River as a hobby. Her work can be seen in

Fairhope, Ala.

Bella Cucina’s showroom.

Hank Holland

Gloria Burns Gloria Burns has been a painter all her life. She has

As a young boy, Lockport, La., native Hank Holland enjoyed swimming and fishing in Bayou Lafourche and

a bachelor’s degree in social work and psychology from

anything else a young boy could find or do to get into

Florida State University and a master’s degree in social

mischief. Born with cerebral palsy, Hank never let his

work. Gloria lives in Covington, but her travels to many

disability hold him back. He continues to prove that with

parts of the United States influence her paintings; she

the right mindset and attitude you can accomplish your

paints what is around her.

goals and dreams. Hank’s original art hangs in homes and businesses in all 50 states, 107 countries and the

Mary deSilva Mary deSilva, a self-taught Louisiana artist, resides

private Vatican collection. He resides in Lockport with his wife, Maria, and son, Christian. hankhollandfolkart.com.

in Mandeville. She is a freelance acrylic-painting teacher

Stephanie Karno

who stresses “art as therapy” in her classes. Mary uses art as a way of relieving stress and celebrating the

Self-taught artist and Louisiana resident Stephanie

whimsy and beauty of family, Louisiana, architecture and

Karno has a unique obsession with color. Passionate

wildlife. marydesilva.weebly.com.

about showing the hidden beauty in common things, she uses the vibrant colors she views the world in to

Julia Eves Julia Eves, a native to rural St. Tammany Parish, is

reveal the beauty she sees every day. Show Facebook: S.KarnoART.

a self-taught contemporary folk artist. Working primarily with acrylic, her mixed-media works combine bright

Lissa Lee

bold colors with layers of papers and paint. Julia is a

Lissa Lee’s first love is classical portraiture, but

successful Etsy artist, and she contributes much of her

anything can be a subject for her canvas. She explores

inspiration to growing up in the rural South.

all types of mediums and loves time in her studio. Lissa

etsy.com/shop/evesjulia12.

has been juried into numerous local shows and won “People’s Choice” at the 2012 St. Michael’s Fall Show.

Phil Galatas

lissaleeart.net.

Slidell native Phil Galatas has been painting and sculpting for 33 years. He is a three-time world champion

Anna Rita Miller

bird sculptor and is currently working on murals and

New Orleans native Anna Rita Miller started

canvas with oils and acrylics. Phil is also focusing on

dabbling in art more seriously once her children were Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2013 13

art can be found on Facebook. Show Facebook: Skarlett Roa Fine Art.

Stephen Rue New Orleans attorney and artist, Stephen Rue, is best known for his “Roux’sters,” which are sculpted on canvas and sold around the country. Rue has been the official artist of the 13

Bayou Boogaloo Festival, the Jefferson Parish Family Gras poster, the official Louisiana SPCA poster and the official WYES print. rouxsterart.com.

Lori Sperier Lori Sperier, from Mandeville, majored in graphic design and minored in painting at LSU. She is inspired by the masters such as Gaugin and Klimt. Her work ranges from figures to abstract landscapes. Lori uses gold or silver leafing to create richness and often incorporates drawing into her grown. Her favorite medium is acrylic, though she

paintings with compressed charcoal or pencil on

first began her art career with pastels and oils.

dry paint for more detailing. Lori currently lives

She has taken classes at Delgado, New Orleans

and works in Covington.

Art Academy, and with well-known artists like Terry Madden and Susan Hotard. She is very active with different art guilds, and her work has

Laura Scrofani Toppeta A first-generation American with Sicilian and

been shown at the World Trade Center in New

Greek roots, Laura Scrofani Toppeta recently

Orleans, the Jefferson Parish courthouse and

moved to Covington from South Carolina. She is

local restaurants.

a graduate of The University of North Carolina – Asheville, with a BA in psychology and art. Laura

Payton Radosta Payton Radosta has been painting for the

10. Skarlett Roa

and her ethnic background to influence her creative

published. His favorite medium to paint on is

process. Laura enjoys many mediums, such as

canvas. For Payton, painting is a way of expressing

mosaic tile, sculptural ceramics and pottery.

himself and seeing his ideas come to life.

Chuck R. Wright Skarlett Roa

12. Anna Rita Miller

Mandeville resident Skarlett Roa is a self-

Chuck R. Wright paints on different types of wooden surfaces with acrylics and oils. His

14. Payton Radosta

taught artist. She is a graduate of Southeastern

paintings are energetic, stylistic and figurative in

15. Stephanie Karno

Louisiana University, active in the community and

abstract settings and usually include text. Chuck

has been a business professional for 15 years.

paints eight to 10 hours a day, and can produce

Skarlett is a mother to Madison and Brooke. Her

a piece of art almost every day.

16. Lori Sperier 17. John Goodwyne 14

United States. She uses her experiences in travel

last nine years. His work has previously been

11. Stephen Rue 13. Gloria Burns

has traveled to Paris, Italy, Dubai and throughout the

Junior League of Greater Covington

JLGC Community Programs THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF GREATER COVINGTON works to identify local needs in St. Tammany Parish

millions of others worldwide on Oct. 4, 2012. Junior League of Greater Covington’s 7th Annual

and develops programs to meet those needs.

Jump Start Read for the Record will take place Oct.

Because JLGC focuses on targeted programming

3, 2013. The 2013 Read for the Record book is Otis by

specific to our community, JLGC can be credited with

Loren Long.

implementing changes and improving conditions in almost every sector of our society locally.

Museum Without Walls Museum Without Walls is a traveling

Read for the Record Jumpstart’s Read for the Record brings national

educational program, developed and implemented by JLGC. It brings creative learning to the

attention to the importance of preparing our children

preschoolers of St. Tammany Parish Schools.

to read at an early age by organizing the world’s

JLGC volunteers have been visiting area schools

largest shared-reading experience. It is an intense,

to spread the word about the future Children’s

early-education program that puts books in the

Museum of St. Tammany Parish. Museum Without

homes of the children who need them the most. The

Walls brings the vision of the museum to students

focus is on helping children make gains in crucial

with activities and arts and crafts projects that

language and literacy skills.

focus on Louisiana’s nature, culture, flora and

JLGC is privileged to partner with Jumpstart in promoting childhood literacy at its annual Read for the

fauna. Funding by JLGC is used for supplies, training and informational seminars.

Record event. JLGC has hosted RFTR for the last six years and was proud to help to reach the new record in

Children’s Museum of St. Tammany

2012 for the world’s largest shared-reading experience.

In partnership with the St. Tammany Parish

More than 12,500 children in St. Tammany Parish joined

government, JLGC continues its steadfast work on Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2013 17

the Children’s Museum of St. Tammany. The vision

Following a community survey, JLGC has

of CMST is a community where play is encouraged,

decided to address concerns regarding social media

creativity is nurtured and learning is enjoyed.

and cyber bullying in the 2013 program.

Exhibits and educational programs are being designed to encourage children to make new and surprising discoveries, explore the wonders

Kids in the Kitchen JLGC’s Kids in the Kitchen program is designed

of the local environment and planet, stimulate

to address the growing issues surrounding childhood

creativity and expression and nurture the desire

obesity and nutrition by providing accurate

for life-long learning.

information and fun learning activities on health and

We anticipate the opening of CMST in

fitness that focus on nutrition. JLGC implemented the

approximately three to five years. This is a project

project in 2006 as a Done in a Day event. JLGC is

of enormous magnitude and one that will bring

now expanding this project by hosting several events

equal value of imagination, discovery, exploration,

throughout the year featuring local chefs creating

creativity and a love of learning to our children in St.

nutritious, easy-to-prepare snacks and fitness

Tammany.

experts demonstrating ways to get active. JLGC is working on grants to implement a newly

Career Corner

created Kids in the Kitchen project, Color Me Blue.

By identifying needs through local community

It would use a different approach to introduce kids

agencies and churches and working with them,

to eating healthy. Color Me Blue would empower

JLGC Career Corner helps prepare women in

children to impact their own health and well-being by

difficult economic circumstances to transition into

engaging them in the planting, growing and eating

the workforce. Wardrobe consultations, outfits and

their own blueberries.

accessories, job interviewing skills and guidance to create a professional appearance are all part of the program. JLGC collects appropriate clothing and

Project Prom Project Prom is a Career Corner program that

then works with clients. Workshops train participants

helps junior and senior high school girls enjoy an

in resume writing, interviewing skills and proper

evening at their prom. Local high school counselors

business attire.

identify candidates having special economic needs. JLGC collects donated dresses, shoes and

Girls’ Health Day The JLGC Career Corner also sponsors Girls’ Health Day. This workshop for pre-teen and teenage girls educates them about drug and

accessories. The girls are then invited to Dogwood Cottage Boutique for a “shopping day,” where they are free to choose an entire prom wardrobe at no charge. In spring of 2013, Project Prom helped 18 girls

alcohol abuse prevention, female health issues, self-

enjoy their prom with dresses and/or other items. In

esteem building techniques, grooming and health

the upcoming year, Project Prom is looking forward

maintenance. One workshop is held each year.

to serving more young women.

Junior League of Greater Covington

select items from the

silent auction tent 1

1. The Layla fascinator with black and white ostrich feathers and Mauboussin flowers de France, $189. Yvonne La Fleur, New Orleans, (504) 866-9666. 2. 100% silk sleeveless rose top by Theyskens’ Theory, $240. Weinstein’s, New Orleans, (504) 895-6278. 3. Bevolo farmhouse pendant, $325. Available in electric. Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights, Mandeville, 249-6040. 4. Four-light old New Orleans window-mirror, $400. Northshore Millworks, Mandeville, 867-1813. 5. Tara Shaw 28 x 28 pillow sham with down-blend inserts,

pair, $400. BMAC Interiors at TerraBella, Covington, 635-4540. 6. 10” nickel-plated Dualite vase with 24kt gold by L’Objet, $350. Arabella Fine Gifts & Home Décor, Mandeville, 727-9787. 7. Jonathan Adler candles in sugar, grapefruit and bubblegum, group of three, $114. BMAC 7

Interiors at TerraBella, Covington, 635-4540.

Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2013 21

The Sport of Kings

Played by Everybody

POLO MAY BE CALLED “the sport of kings,” but its

no plans to stop anytime soon. “The bond with the

athletes come from every background and begin

horse and having this incredibly powerful 1,100-pound

playing with varying levels of expertise.

animal between your legs is like nothing else,” he

Dr. Jay Addison has been involved in the local

explains. “You and the horse are actively engaged in

Jesse Wimberly III,

polo scene for more than 36 years. A practicing large-

the game. It’s a four-man team sport, but you’re also

Kristin Castro and

animal veterinarian, he actually started out training

a two-man team. I recently had hip surgery so I can

Left to right:

horses to help pay his way through school. “I started

continue to play for another 30 or so years—however

in polo uniforms

out in rodeo in high school,” says Dr. Addison. “Before

long my body will let me play.

outside the barn

I started vet school, I was handed a polo mallet and

at Leah Farms in

some horses to ride, and the rest is history.”

Dr. Jay Addison

Folsom, where the annual Harvest Cup Polo Classic will be held. 22

Well, almost. To this day, Dr. Addison rescues

“There’s no age, gender or demographic separation between people who play,” says Dr. Addison. “It doesn’t matter if you’re a billionaire or a

Thoroughbreds from the racing world and rehabilitates

groom or whatever your financial status or gender.

them for polo and other equestrian sports. Soon to be

When you’re out on that field, there’s a unique

58, the good doctor is still playing the sport and has

camaraderie that goes along with it.”

Junior League of Greater Covington

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGPRAHY

by Amanda M. Westbrooks

Everyone plays on the same team together at some point, professionals and novices alike. “In the beginning, I just tried to stay out of everybody’s way,” explains Kristin Castro, president and owner of Ad House. “As a novice, you don’t want to make mistakes or hurt anyone. You have to have an eye for what’s happening on the field. Everything moves very fast.” Castro started riding as a little girl, and was sucked into polo just six years ago. “I used to ride hunter/jumpers,” she says. “I stable my horse at Leah Farms, where one of the polo fields is located. The owner, David Fennelly, invited me to give the game a try. I was hooked!” “You don’t even have to have a horse of your own. You can lease or rent one or two and come play,” says Jesse Wimberly III, a local lawyer who admits he’d never ridden a horse before deciding to attend a polo clinic with friends Biff Jones and Charlie Schroeder in 1990. “I didn’t even start messing with horses until I was 40. It’s the only horse sport I’ve ever played, and now all I do is play polo, as my wife will tell you,” Wimberly says with a chuckle. “Once your mallet connects with the ball a couple times, it gets in your blood.” And he’s not the only one—Wimberly says his youngest son, Jay, is addicted as well. “He’s very good. At 28, he’s young, so he really has the ability to go somewhere with the sport.” Fortunately, Jay has access to his father’s equipment, property and horses. “Truck, trailer, horses, tack, dues—all that’s kinda tough for a kid right out of college unless you’re in with someone who has those assets. Very tough,” notes Wimberly. A busy mother of two, Castro brings her kids to the games with her. “Don’t be afraid of the sport. It’s not high falutin’,” she says. “We just go out there and hang out every weekend. We welcome people to come watch us, bring their kids and bring a picnic! It’s free entertainment.” The Harvest Cup Polo Classic is the largest and most exciting event in the local polo season, and the players are eager to showcase all the heart-stopping play, full pageantry, gorgeous hats and, yes, divot stomping to be found with their beloved sport. “This event provides an opportunity for people who may not normally have the time to spend in the outdoors and engage in the beautiful settings to do so,” says Dr. Addison. “They’ll also experience the connection between people and their animals and livestock. And that’s something that’s so important as we transition away from an agrarian society to a more urban society. There’s a growing disconnect. “Most of all, it’s a great opportunity to bring in people from the cities to enjoy the game and remember all the great things that the Junior League supports in our community.” Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2013 23

B U S I N E S S

P R O F I L E

Event Planning Made Easy Northshore Harbor Center

FROM THE MOMENT you walk through the doors, it’s easy

Simple elegance. When it comes to decorating,

to see why the Northshore Harbor Center has become the

sometimes less is more. Don’t be tempted to overdo in an

location of choice for events. Knowledgeable event planners at

effort to create a “wow,” which might result in a disaster

the full service facility help their clients create successful events

instead. Rather, a better approach is to focus on the overall

from start to finish. From floorplans to décor and everything in

ambiance of the room. Create a “wow” in a different way by

between, no detail is overlooked. “I don’t use the Northshore

adding a unique element, such as an ice sculpture, a martini

Harbor Center for Slidell Newcomer’s Craft Show because it’s a

bar, a ceiling swag, or a grand entrance.

beautiful facility - although it truly is! I use it every year because of the people who work there. From before I sign the contract until well after the event, I’m greeted with smiling faces, great attitudes and helpful people,” said Linda Tate, show organizer. Here are a few simple tips from the experts: Location, location, location. Choosing the right location is critical in the success of any event. A venue should be centrally located and easily accessible to your target audience. Ample, free parking at a full service location that includes in-house event management, set-up staff, custodial services, event décor and clean-up staff will make planning your event much less stressful. Timing is everything. It is impossible to have a

Utilizing some of these tips can help lower your stress

successful function with an empty room. Consider these

and contribute to the success of your event. “We’re not just

factors when selecting your date: Are people on vacation?

renting a building, we’re setting the standard for service,”

Are there other major events competing with your potential

said Kathy Lowrey, general manager. “Our versatile,

date? Will the date conflict with any major holidays?

45,000 square foot facility features flexible room sizes and

Sponsorships can make or break an event. Securing

configurations to accommodate groups of all sizes. The

sponsors to help with financial support, product donations

building, which offers plenty of free parking, is centrally

or advertising can help tremendously in offsetting costs. In

located near Interstates 10, 12 and 59. I’d like to personally

exchange, sponsors receive top advertising in your marketing

invite you to experience what our clients are talking about.”

materials, free admission, prime seating and VIP treatment. Marketing is key. People can’t come to an event that they don’t know about. Provide a “Save the Date” six months in advance. Thirty days before the date, send out press releases with event details and then ramp up radio, television, print, and social media two weeks out. A person has to see, hear or read your message at least three times before it is remembered.

985.781.3650 • NorthshoreHarborCenter.com September-October 2013 157

Book Report

by Terri Schlichenmeyer

Revenge Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger

IN THE ANNALS OF JOB-QUITTING, the quit you executed was fabulous. Everybody thought you were a lifer at work. Nobody thought you’d ever leave. But you’d been quietly job-hunting for months, and on the day you got the call you were waiting for (and the new position), you shocked them all. You quit–quit! And you couldn’t stop smiling. Ten years ago, Andy Sachs famously quit her job at Runway magazine with a big, Parisian f-bomb. But in the new book Revenge Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger, she should’ve known that you can’t escape The Devil that easily. Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome. Andy Sachs was sure she had that once, thanks to her assistant’s job with Miranda Priestly at Runway. Now, it had been a full decade since she’d escaped, 10 years since Miranda’s ring-tone made Andy cringe. Ten years since Andy quit in a blaze of dubious glory. Things sure had changed in that decade. Right after she left Runway, Andy found work as a wedding blogger. Her

best friend, Lily, moved to Colorado, and Alex, Andy’s first love, broke up with her in a most pathetic way. Not long after that, Andy and her former-enemy-turnedbestie, Emily, started The Plunge, a fabulous celeb-and-picture-filled wedding magazine, the cover on which every bride wanted to be. Best of all, Emily introduced Andy to Max Harrison, and now Andy was a newlywed. But, of course, life never runs smoothly. On the morning of her wedding, Andy accidentally found a letter from Max’s mother, and it turned out that Barbara hated Andy. That undermined Andy’s self-confidence, despite the fact that Max was loving, handsome and supportive. He was also good with investments; he was one of The Plunge’s earliest backers, after all. Yep, The Plunge was good. It was Andy’s baby, and it made her happy. Everybody loved that magazine, including Elias-Clark, the firm that wanted to acquire it—Elias-Clark also happened to be the firm that owned Runway. Runway, with Miranda Priestly at the helm …

Oh, my, there’s a lot going on in Revenge Wears Prada. And you’re going to love every single page of it. It’s always nice to reconnect with old friends, especially when they’re as sweet and smart as Andy Sachs. Weisberger let her character mature, but she otherwise hasn’t altered those aspects of Andy’s personality. Even though it’s been 10 years since we first met her, Andy’s just as endearing as she was in Weisberger’s first book. What’s different here is that Miranda Priestly is even more evil. Honestly, there’s one passage in this book that made my skin crawl. It’s deliciously scary, like almost out of a horror novel, and that couldn’t be more perfect. I really don’t think you need to have read Weisberger’s first novel to understand this one; it might help, but you can get a sense of what happened pretty much anywhere. I can tell you this, though: whether you’re new to this story, or you’re an old fan from way back, once you start reading Revenge Wears Prada, you won’t be able to quit. September-October 2013 159

M A R R I A G E

Diebold-Lanaux

I N

L O V E

A N D

High school sweethearts and best friends for nine years, Angela Diebold and Merrick Lanaux celebrated their marriage at Carter Plantation Country Club in Springfield, La. The bride wore a vintage ivory fit-and-flare Lyon lace silhouette over silk organza gown with a sweetheart neckline. Complementing the dress, her ivory cathedral-style veil was edged with lace and personalized with her new initials. After the ceremony, the couple enjoyed delicious food and fun music with close friends and family in the ballroom. They honeymooned in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Torrey-Douglass Alexandra Shea Torrey and Brian Austin Douglass were joined in marriage in the garden columns at Benedictâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Plantation. Pastor Chris Christopher of Hosanna Lutheran Church presided over the union. The bride wore an ivory gown with a sweetheart neckline accented with a beaded sash and lace veil. The groomsmen were attired in grey tuxedos and royal blue vests. The bridesmaids wore one-shoulder royal blue dresses, which were accented by orange and pink gerbera daisy bouquets. The couple resides in Mandeville. 160

Inside Northside

September-October 2013 161

IN the Spotlight Northshore Debutantes The deb season was in full swing this summer with two northshore girls being feted by friends and family. 1. The Summer Soireé for Blakely Brennan, hosted by her aunts and uncles, took place at Commander’s Palace in the Garden Room and the adjoining patio. 2. Blakely Brennan and Sara Field. 3. Stephen Parker, Ellie Davis, Eddie Davis, Cooper Brennan, Susan Brennan and Ralph Brennan. 4. Nicholas Trist and Micah Cressy. 5. The Harper family gathered at the Attic at Lucy’s for Sipping into the Sunset with Ellie. 6. Savanna Cole, Lizzie Trosclair, honoree Ellie Harper and Betsy Eppling. 7. Greg Seiner and Courtney Braud. 8. Jenny Chunn, deb mom Ann Harper and Jean Frey. 9. Kitty Jackson and deb dad Grady Harper.

7 9

September-October 2013 163

INside Peek

1. Keith and C J Ladner, Randy and Yvonne Kinchen, John Poole, Jim Elzy, and Dr. Mark and Shelly Berry celebrate John and Jimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s return to Mandeville after many

years of living in different countries. 2. Cohen Kale Crawford, son

of Kandyl Koike and Charles Crawford Jr. of Covington, was born at 12:34 a.m. on July 4, 2013, making him the official Bicentennial Baby, the first baby born at STPH on the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 200th birthday. 3. Tony Walley, Rebecca Estain, Paulena Gross, Gary Dragon and Chuck Anger at Times Grill Slidell for the Emerging Young Professionals July Social. 4. Participants in the two-day Lakeview Regional Medical Center Safe Sitter Course.

164

Inside Northside

5. Jenni and John Hindman with Charmaine Reeves at the Emerging Young Professionals After Hours Social at the Wine Market in Slidell. 6. Susan Falls, Linda Larkin and Chrissy Smith. 7. Kristen Wallace, Brian Wallace, Susan Falls, Gary Dragon and Chuck Anger. 8. Jenni Hindman of Fidelity

and Judy Malone of JuJuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bakery at the Fidelity Chamber After Hours event in Slidell. 8

9. Members of the Fidelity team. 10. Lacey Toledano, Jan Robert, Patti Ellish, Brett Kolman, Polly Davenport, Steve Blades,

Steve Gorman and Carrie McAdams were panelists at the West St. Tammany Chamber Luncheon sponsored by Charter Business. 10

Send your submissions to peek@insidenorthside.com.

INside Peek

1. Kay Deluca, Lynda Murrah, Joan Kelker, Kay Taylor, Melanie 6

Lishman and Dottie Davis at the Le Cotillion luncheon at La Provence. 2. Le Cotillion new members Hillary Toups, Gwendolyn Albers and Judy Ramirez.

3. Leslie Paulsen, outgoing Le Cotillion president, passes the gavel to incoming president Nancy Jones. 4. Christine Owen and her daughter-in-law, Cindy Owen. 5. Ladies for Liberty volunteers Linda Larkin, Wendy Harpster, Donna Reeves, Annette Hall and Libby Guidry at the 2013 Southside CafĂŠ Bushwacker Classic at Oak Harbor Golf Course in Slidell. 6. Sen. A.G. Crowe supports his wife, volunteer Linda Crowe, at the Ladies for Liberty fundraiser at Texas Roadhouse in Slidell. 7. Executive chef Tory Stewart and members of the staff at the grand opening of Jubilee Restaurant & Courtyard in Mandeville. 8. Amanda Hover, Scott Standifer and Jordan Olsen at the Emerging Young Professionals luau party at Pinewood Country Club in Slidell. 9. Anita and Nicky Bruno. 10. Pam Rogers and Kim Bearden. 9

166

Inside Northside

Send your submissions to peek@insidenorthside.com.

September-October 2013 167

INside Peek 1 2

Inside Northside held itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s July/August Meet the Artist Party at Tchefuncta 3

Country Club in Covington. 1. Greg Klemp, general manager of Tchefuncta Country Club, IN cover artist Ray Rouyer and Michael Rase of Peretti Jaguar. 2. Erin Naquin, Katherine

Hamby, Renee Chauvin, Destiny Dishon and Jessica Howell of Oasis Day Spa. 3. Dr. Gary and Dee Agena. 4. Kenny and Dody Adams of Integrity Builders. 5. George Neyrey and Christian Serpas.

Send your submissions to peek@insidenorthside.com.

IN the Spotlight Covington Bicentennial Celebration

photos: DAVID BARFIELD

The city of Covington celebrated its 200th birthday on July 4 when a year-long series of events culminated in a Bicentennial Celebration at Bogue Falaya Park. Those in attendance enjoyed a variety of activities, food and beverages. Highlights were a musical presentation of an original score created for the bicentennial by Brian Hanson, and a spectacular fireworks show. One final commemoration— the closing of the bicentennial time capsule—will take place on Sept. 26 during a free concert event at the Covington Trailhead; the capsule will not be opened until the city’s cestercentennial in 2063.

September-October 2013 169

170

Inside Northside

IN the Spotlight Duhon Stand Tall Foundation Scholarship Banquet

Current and past scholarship winners mingled with Chris Duhon and guests at the Duhon Stand Tall Foundation Scholarship Banquet at the Northshore Harbor Center in Slidell. Following a “meet and greet” and dinner, all enjoyed a surprise performance by the Triple Threat dancers from the dance camp program designed by Chris Duhon’s wife, Andrea Duhon. Winners of the scholarships were chosen based on academic achievement and community service. The recipients were Leslie Malcolm Blades of Lakeshore High School, Giselle Callahan of Covington High School, Jacob Daniel McKay of Mandeville High School, Christopher Michael Milligan of Slidell High School, and Desiree’ Nicole Williams of Covington High School. Each recipient received a $5,000 scholarship to the fouryear college or university of their choice. Other projects Chris has initiated include a basketball camp, the Feed the Children program and a fundraiser golf tournament. A graduate of Salmen High School, Chris played in the NBA for the Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks, Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers. He says, “This is home. I would not be in the position I am in today without the school system people who helped me achieve my goals. We just want to be sure to give the young people of this generation the same opportunities to achieve their goals as well.”

September-October 2013 171

INside Peek

1. Participants in the Resource Bank Junior Achievement Bowl-a-Thon at Tiffany Lanes in Mandeville. 2. The St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Golden Blues Dance Team

received third place for their home routine, the Superior Award, the Overall Spirit Award, and the Highest Overall Points in Drill Downs Award at the Universal Dance Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2

convention camp in Baton Rouge. 3. The SSA Class of 1973 celebrates its reunion with a gathering at Seiler Bar & Courtyard in Covington.

4. Event chairwomen Allyson

MacMahon and Betty Motichek Bruce of the Reading Writing

Rhythm Rendezvous held at

the Lakehouse, sponsored by the Professional Women of St. Tammany Parish. 5. Professional Women of St. Tammany 2012 Scholarship Winners Jill Maloy, Gabrielle Burns and Kelsey Bordelon. 6. Helena Mollo, Barbara Bieber, Mary Nell Poole, Rita Bieber and Karen Roussell at Ritaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 89th birthday celebration. 7. Kelly Villars, DPT, Crystal Cook-Ferris, DPT, Devin Nolan, DPT and Mary Ellen Kanode of Rehab Dynamics at the LIFT Training Studios Straight Up Fitness event. 7. Tristan Martin, Jessie Wolz, Samantha Prestenbach, Harold Prestenbach and Tim Goyette at the LIFT event. Send your submissions to peek@insidenorthside.com.

September-October 2013 173

IN Great Taste Blue Hickory Barbeque 5 Tips for Smoking Pork Shoulder 1. Brine the meat for 24 hours before smoking. 2. Use a mustard slather to help dry rub adhere and to create a nice crust. 3. Keep the heat in the smoker as close to 225 degrees as possible—consistent heat is important. 4. Smoke the meat for 10 to 12 hours. 5. It’s done when you can pull the shoulder bone out or the meat thermometer reads 190 degrees. Heat pulled pork together with BBQ sauce and serve with a layer of coleslaw on toasted King’s Hawaiian rolls. These pulled pork sliders are especially delicious on LSU-ARKANSAS game days.

Tailgating Time! Old Rail Brewing Company Buffalo Mac ’n Cheese

1 lb cooked spiral pasta 4 grilled chicken breasts, diced 6 oz hot sauce

4 oz blond roux (2 oz butter, 2 oz flour)

1 cup Cow Catcher Chocolate Milk Stout (or any stout) 1 tsp salt

Mornay Sauce

1/2 tsp white pepper

1/2 oz butter

1/2 tsp nutmeg

1/2 oz yellow onion, small dice

3 oz cheddar cheese, shredded

3 cups milk

Crumbled blue cheese

Cook onions in butter over medium heat until translucent. Add roux, stirring, and whisk in milk. Add salt, pepper and nutmeg. Bring to a simmer, hold for 30 minutes, remove from heat and add cheddar. Combine cooked chicken with enough hot sauce to coat. Separately toss cooked pasta with Mornay sauce. Add over chicken. Crumble blue cheese over top and broil for two minutes. Makes 6-8 servings.

Mellow Mushroom Deli Tray A combination of the Mushroom Club, the Italian, the Jerk Chicken and Portobello Hoagies. Mushroom Club: mayo, lettuce, tomato, ham, button mushrooms, bacon and provolone. Italian: mayo, spring mix, tomato, fresh basil, fresh mozzarella, salami, pepperoni and ham. Jerk Chicken: mayo, lettuce, tomato, pineapple, onions and green peppers, jerk chicken and provolone. Portobello Hoagies: spinach, sun-dried tomato, feta, mozzarella, Portobello mushrooms and mayo. 174

Inside Northside

INside Dining MCC: Major credit cards accepted ME: Menu Express delivery RR: Reservations recommended

ABITA SPRINGS Abita Barbecue, 69399 Hwy. 59, 8920205. Ribs, brisket, chicken, pulled pork and boudin. MCC. Abita Brew Pub, 72011 Holly St., 8925837. On the Trace. Good food, great beer. Lunch, dinner. abitabrewpub.com. MCC. Abita Springs Café, 22132 Level St., 867-9950. Southern cooking for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Tues-Sun. MCC. Breakaway Cafe, 71667 Leveson St., 809-8998. Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm. Camellia Café, 69455 Hwy. 59, 8096313. Traditional seafood and New Orleans cuisine. thecamelliacafe.com. MCC. Mama D’s Pizza & More, 22054 Hwy. 59, 809-0308. Great pizza, sandwiches, pasta, fresh homemade bread. Lunch, dinner. mamadspizza.com. COVINGTON Acme Oyster House, 1202 Hwy. 190, 246-6155. Established 1910 in New Orleans, 1995 on northshore. Seafood, sandwiches, local favorites. Lunch, dinner. mamdspizza.com. MCC. Albasha, 1958 Hwy. 190, 867-8292. Mediterranean cuisine. albashabr.com. MCC. Annadele’s Plantation, 71518 Chestnut St., 809-7669. Yellow fin tuna, domestic lamb & much more. annadeles.com. MCC, checks. Bear’s Restaurant, 128 W. 21st St., 892-2373. Best po-boys in the world. Blue Hickory BBQ, 570380 Hwy. 21, Ste. 9, 871-4216. Meats smoked on site, handmade sausage; brisket, ribs, chicken, seafood and salads. Drive-thru. Open 7 days a week. bluehickorybbq. com. MCC. Buster’s Place, 519 E. Boston St., 809-3880. Seafood, po-boys, steaks. Lunch, dinner. MCC. Carreta’s Grill, 70380 Hwy. 21, 8716674. Great Mexican cuisine and margaritas served in a family-friendly atmosphere for lunch and dinner. Kids eat free every Wednesday! Private events and catering also provided. carretasgrill.com. MCC. The Cheesesteak Bistro, 528 N.

Columbia St., Covington, 875-9793. Original cheesesteak sandwiches, soups, salads, gumbo and super spuds. Breakfast, lunch. All under $10. MCC, checks. The Chimes, 19130 W. Front St., 892-5396. Lunch and dinner. thechimes.com. MCC. Coffee Rani, 234-A Lee Ln., 8936158. Soup and salad specialists. coffeerani.com. Columbia St. Seafood, 1123 N. Columbia St., 893-4312. Seafood platters and po-boys. columbiastreetseafood.com. Columbia St. Tap Room & Grill, 434 N. Columbia St., 898-0899. Daily specials, appetizers, sandwiches, salads, soups and burgers. Live music Thurs-Sat nights. Lunch, dinner. covingtontaproom.com. MCC, ME. Copeland’s, 680 N. Hwy. 190, 809-9659. Authentic New Orleans cuisine. Lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Online takeout orders at copelandsofneworleans.com. MCC, ME, RR. Dakota Restaurant, 629 N. Hwy. 190, 892-3712. Contemporary Louisiana cuisine using local and seasonal ingredients. thedakotarestaurant.com. MCC, RR. Del Porto Restaurant, 501 E. Boston St., 875-1006. Northern Italian cuisine. delportoristorante.com. MCC, RR. Di Martino’s, 700 S. Tyler St., 2766460. Great food and reasonable prices. Lunch, dinner. dimartinos.com. MCC. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, 69292 Hwy. 21, 871-2225. Locally-owned and -operated franchise. Kids eat free on Sundays. MCC. DiCristina’s Restaurant, 810 N. Columbia St., Ste. C, 875-0160. Conveniently located next to the new Covington Courthouse. Italian and seafood. dicristinas.com. MCC. Don’s Seafood Hut, 126 Lake Dr., 327-7111. Lunch and dinner. donsseafoodonline.com. MCC. Downtown Deli, 400 N. Thread St., 234-9086. Chicken salad, burgers and poboys. Mon-Fri, 10:30am-2:30pm. MCC. El Portal, 1200 Business 190, 867-5367. The English Tea Room, 734 Rutland St., 898-3988. Authentic English cream

teas. Special event teas, English scones, crumpets and cakes. Serving breakfast and lunch. Mon-Sat, 7:30am-6pm. englishtearoom.com. MCC, RR. Four Seasons Chinese Buffet, 600 N. Hwy. 190, 893-3866. MCC. Gallagher’s Grill, 509 S. Tyler St., 892-9992. Lunch and dinner, Tues-Sat. gallaghersgrill.com. MCC, RR. Garcia’s Famous Mexican Food, 200 River Highlands Blvd., 327-7420. Isabella’s Pizzeria, 70452 Hwy. 21, Ste. 500, 875-7620; 1331 Hwy. 190, 809-1900. Salads, gourmet pizza, sandwiches, paninis, calzones and pasta. isabellaspizzeria.net. Italian Pie, 70488 Hwy. 21, 871-5252. Pizza, salads, pasta, sandwiches. Dine in or carry out. italianpie.com. MCC, checks. Jerk’s Island Grill & Daiquiri Bar, 70437 Hwy. 21, 893-1380. jerksIslandgrill.com. Lola, 517 N. New Hampshire St., 892-4992. Lunch, Mon-Fri; Dinner, Fri-Sat. Closed Sundays. Daily lunch specials, local produce, Louisiana seafood, everything housemade. lolacovington.com. Mattina Bella, 421 E. Gibson St., 8920708. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. MCC, checks. McAlister’s Deli, 206 Lake Dr., Ste. 15, 898-2800. Great sandwiches, salads, overstuffed potatoes. mcalistersdeli. com. MCC, checks. Megumi of Covington, 1211 Village Walk, 893-0406. megumirestaurant.net. Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers, 1645 Hwy. 190, 327-5407. Salads, pizzas, calzones. 20 craft beers on tap. Open 7 days a week. Lunch and dinner. MCC. mellowmushroom.com. Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt, 104 Lake Dr. #1, 898-6362. menchies.com.

7am. nonnaskingcakes.com. MCC. North Island Chinese, 842 N. Collins Blvd., 867-8289. Northshore Empress, 31 Louis Prima Dr., 871-6975. northshoreempress.com. Osaka 21 Japanese Restaurant, 70340 Hwy. 21, 809-2640. Osaka West Japanese Restaurant, 804 N. Hwy. 190, 871-8199. osakawest.com Pardos, 69305 Hwy. 21, 893-3603. An American bistro with a blend of multi-cultural cuisine with local flair. Frutta del mar pasta, rosemary-grilled shrimp, roasted chicken. Lunch, TuesFri; Dinner, Tues-Sun; Happy hour, Tues-Fri, 4-7pm. Private parties and catering. pardosbistro.com. MCC. Pat’s Seafood Market and Cajun Deli, 1248 N. Collins Blvd., 892-7287. Jambalaya, gumbo, stuffed artichokes. MCC, checks, ME. Peck’s Seafood & Grill, 70457 Hwy. 21, Ste. 108, 892-2121. Po-boys, seafood, burgers and lunch specials. MCC. PJ’s Coffee & Tea Co., 70456 Hwy. 21, 875-7894. Catch your morning buzz at this convenient drive-thru! Catering. MCC. Pizza Man of Covington, 1248 N. Collins Blvd., 892-9874. Checks, ME. Renaissance Antiques & Gifts with the Original Soda Fountain & Café Cabaret, 322 N. Florida St., 892-7220. Nostalgic soda fountain for lunch and after school, six days a week. Sala Thai, 315 N. Vermont St., 2496990. Special salads, spring rolls, soups, noodle and curry dishes. Sun-Thurs, 11am-9pm; Fri-Sat, 11am-10pm. Lunch buffet weekdays, 11am-3pm. salathaibysu.com. MCC. Schwing’s Restaurant, 1204 W. 21st Ave., 893-1899. Fresh seafood and home cooking. schwingsrestaurant.com. MCC.

New Orleans Food and Spirits, 208 Lee Ln., 875-0432. Grilled fish, smothered rabbit and voodoo crawfish rolls. Family owned and operated. neworleansfoodspirits.com. MCC.

Sweet Daddy’s, 420 S. Tyler St., 8982166. Pulled pork, brisket and ribs. sweetdaddysbarbq.com. MCC, ME.

Nonna Randazzo’s Italian Bakery and Caffè, 2033 N. Hwy. 190, Ste. 5, 893-1488. Full service, year-round bakery. Luncheon salads, panini, catering, donuts, kingcakes, cupcakes and wedding cakes. Tues-Sun, open at

Thai Spice, 1581 N. Hwy. 190, 8096483.

Thai Chili, 1102 N. Hwy. 190, 809-0180.

Thai Taste, 1005 N. Collins Blvd., 809-7886. >>

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Tony Bosco’s at TerraBella, 141 TerraBella Blvd., 612-7250. Authentic Italian cuisine. Lunch, dinner, private meeting room, catering. tonyboscos.com. Vasquez Seafood & Po-Boys, 515 E. Boston St., 893-9336. Cuban sandwiches and more. vazquezpoboy. com. MCC, checks, ME. WOW Café & Wingery, 501 N. Hwy. 190, 892-9691. Wings, burgers, wraps and more. MCC. Yujin Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar, 323 N. New Hampshire St., 809-3840. Japanese cuisine and sushi in a casual atmosphere. MCC. Zea Rotisserie & Grill, 110 Lake Dr., 327-0520. Inspired American food. zearestaurants.com. MCC. HAMMOND Adobe Cantina & Salsa, 1905 W. Thomas St., 419-0027. Fine Mexican cuisine, good spirits, great friends and fun. Ceviche (marinated fish) and Mexican pasta. Live band. adoberestaurant.com. MCC. Brady’s, 110 SW Railroad Ave., 5426333. bradysdowntown.com. Cocoa Bean Bakery and Cafe, 910 E. Main St., 345-2002. Specialty cakes, pastries. Serving breakfast and light lunch. Specials. thecocoabeanbakery.com. MCC. Don’s Seafood & Steak House, 1915 S. Morrison Blvd., 345-8550. donsseafoodonline.com. MCC. Jacmel Inn, 903 E. Morris St., 542-0043. Casual fine dining including Creole, Italian, Caribbean and Southern cuisines. Handtrimmed steaks, seafood and specialties. Dinner, Tues-Sun; Lunch, Wed-Fri; Sunday Brunch; Closed Mondays. jacmelinn.com. MCC, checks. Kirin Sushi, 221 E. Cate St., 5428888. First Japanese sushi restaurant in Hammond! Dragon roll, Kirin roll, sake. kirinjapanesecuisine.com. MCC. La Carreta Authentic Mexican Cuisine, 108 N.W Railroad Ave., 419-9990. Festive Mexican atmosphere, fresh food from traditional recipes, outstanding service and value. Live music. Lunch and dinner seven days a week. carretarestaurant.com. MCC. Old MacDonald’s Smokehouse, 1601 N. Morrison Blvd., 542-7529. BBQ brisket, ribs, chicken and

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sausage. oldmacdonaldsmokehouse. com. MCC, checks. Tommy’s on Thomas, 216 W. Thomas St., 350-6100. Pizza, pastas. Lunch, dinner. tommysonthomas.com. MCC, checks. Tope là, 104 N. Cate St., 542-7600. Contemporary delights. topela.com. MCC. Trey Yuen Cuisine of China, 2100 N. Morrison Blvd., 345-6789. Innovative quality Chinese food served in Imperial surroundings. treyyuen.com. MCC, checks. VooDoo BBQ & Grill, 2108 W. Thomas St., 345-1131. “Taste our Magic.” voodoobbq.com. MCC. Yellow Bird Café, 222 E. Charles St., 345-1112. A great place to start your day. Breakfast, lunch. MCC, checks. LACOMBE Janie Brown’s Restaurant, 27207 Hwy. 190, 882-7201. Casual dining with a great atmosphere. MCC, checks. La Provence Restaurant, 25020 Hwy. 190, 626-7662. Owner John Besh combines hospitality with French cuisine and welcoming hearths. Dinner, Sunday brunch. laprovencerestaurant.com. MCC, checks. RR. Sal & Judy’s, 27491 Hwy. 190, 882-9443. Great food and line of retail products. Family-owned for 27 years. Veal is the house specialty. salandjudys.com. MCC, RR. MADISONVILLE Cafe Madisonville, 410 Covington Hwy., 792-4506. Soups, salads, sandwiches and lunch specials.  Frog’s Pizzeria, 302 Hwy. 22, 8459500. frogspizza.com. Hook’d Up Riverside Bar and Grill, 100 Marina Del Ray Dr., 845-8119. Burgers, wings, hot dogs and specials. Keith Young’s Steakhouse, 165 Hwy. 21, 845-9940. Steak, crab cakes. Lunch, dinner, Tues-Fri. keithyoungs.net. MCC. Morton’s Boiled Seafood & Bar, 702 Water St., 845-4970. Relaxed atmosphere, seafood, daily specials. Lunch, dinner. MCC, checks. Water St. Bistro, 804 Water St., 845-3855. Casual ambiance on the Tchefuncte. Lunch and dinner, WedSun. mortonsseafood.com. MCC.

i MANDEVILLE The Barley Oak, 2101 Lakeshore Dr., 727-7420. Serving 130 styles of beer, call and premium liquors. Lunch and dinner. thebarleyoak.com. MCC.

Gio’s Villa Vancheri, 2890 E. Causeway App., 624-2597. Sicilian specialties by 5-star chef Gio Vancheri. Lunch and dinner, Mon-Sat. giosvillavancheri.com. MCC. RR.

Benedict’s Plantation, 1144 Lovers Ln., 626-4557. Traditional New Orleans cuisine. Dinner, Sunday brunch. benedictsplantation.net. MCC.

Hong Kong Restaurant, 2890 E. Causeway App., 626-8222. MCC.

Broken Egg Café, 200 Gerard St., 624-3388. Excellent choice for brunch! Pasta, specialty salads, sandwiches. anotherbrokenegg.com. MCC. Café Lynn Restaurant and Catering, 3051 E. Causeway App., 624-9007. Casual fine dining for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch by Chef Joey Najolia. Catfish remoulade, pasta du jour. TuesFri, lunch: 11am-3pm. Dinner, 5pm. Catering provided. cafelynn.com. MCC. Causeway Café, 527 N. Causeway Blvd., 626-9997. MCC. Chili’s Bar & Grill, 3420 Hwy. 190, 7272771. Fajitas and the Awesome Blossom. Lunch, dinner. chilis.com. MCC, ME.

K. Gee’s, 2534 Florida St., 626-0530. Featuring Louisiana seafood with raw oysters 1/2 price on Tuesdays. Express lunch and daily lunch specials under $10. Mon-Thurs, 11am-9pm; Fri-Sat, 11am-10pm. kgeesrestaurant.com. MCC.

La Madeleine French Cafe, 3434 Hwy. 190, 626-7004. lamadeleine.com.

Fat Spoon Café, 68480 Hwy. 59., 809-2929. Breakfast, lunch, TuesSun. 7am-2pm. Breakfast served until 10:30am on weekdays and all day Saturday and Sunday. Reserve Fat Spoon Cafe for your next party. fatspooncafe.com. MCC.

The Lakehouse, 2025 Lakeshore Dr., 626-3006, events 807-5014. Special events venue open 7 days for private events. Call for reservations. lakehousecuisine.com. MCC.

George’s Mexican Restaurant, 1461

Jubilee Restaurant and Courtyard, 301 Lafitte St., 778-2552. Contemporary Louisisna cuisine by award-winning chef Tory Stewart, formerly of Broussard’s Restaurant. Reservations encouraged.

Country Kitchen, 2109 Florida St., 6265375. countrykitchenrestaurants.com.

Franco’s Grill,100 Bon Temps Roule, 792-0200. Fresh organic foods for breakfast, lunch and takeout. myfrancos. com/dining. MCC.

Italian Pie, 4350 Hwy. 22, 626-5252. Pizza, salads, pasta, sandwiches. Dine in or carry out. italianpie.com. MCC, checks.

Coscino’s Pizza, 1817 N. Causeway Blvd., 727-4984. New York hand-tossed pizza and Italian foods cooked on stone using the finest ingredients. MCC.

Fazzio’s Seafood & Steakhouse, 1841 N. Causeway Blvd., 624-9704. Fresh fish daily, aged beef, traditional Italian. Lunch, dinner. fazziosrestaurant. com. MCC, ME, RR.

Isabella’s Pizzeria, 2660 Florida St. (in the Florida Street Market), 674-5700. Salads, gourmet pizza, sandwiches, paninis, calzones and pasta. isabellapizzeria.net.

La Carreta Authentic Mexican Cuisine, 1200 W. Causeway App., 624-2990. Festive Mexican atmosphere, fresh food from traditional recipes, outstanding service and value. Live music. Lunch and dinner seven days a week. carretasrestaurant.com. MCC.

Coffee Rani, 3517 Hwy. 190, 6740560. Soup and salad specialists.

N. Causeway Blvd., 626-4342. Family owned. Fajitas, George’s nachos, Carne al la Parrilla. Best top-shelf margaritas in town. georgesmexicanrestaurant.com. MCC, ME.

Bear’s Grill & Spirits, 4700 Hwy. 22, 674-9090. Bear’s po-boys and more. bearsgrillandspirits.com. MCC.

Bosco’s Italian Café, 2040 Hwy. 59, 624-5066. boscositalian.com.

Little Tokyo, 590 Asbury Dr., 727-1532. littletokyosushi.com. Louie & The Redhead Lady, 1851 Florida St., 626-8101. louieandtheredheadlady.com. Macaroni Grill, 3410 Hwy. 190, 7271998. Penne rustica, pasta Milano, other Italian favorites. Lunch, dinner. macaronigrill.com. MCC, ME. Mande’s, 340 N. Causeway App., 626-9047. Serving breakfast and

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lunch, daily specials. Mandina’s, 4240 Hwy. 22 in Azalea Square Shopping Center, 674-9883. Seafood, Creole and Italian. Lunch and dinner, Mon-Sat. mandinasrestaurant.com. Maw Maw’s, 1461 N. Causeway Blvd., Ste. 11, 727-7727. Soups, salads, stuffed potatoes, sandwiches, po-boys. Megumi Japanese Cuisine, 4700 Hwy. 22, Suites 11 and 12, 845-1644. Yakimono and sushi bar. Lunch, dinner. megumirestaurant.com. MiMamacita’s New Mexican Cuisine, 2345 Florida St., 674-1400. Great food and margaritas. Lunch, dinner, catering. MCC.

Italian cuisine. Lunch and dinner. MCC. Rusty Pelican, 500 Girod St., 778-0364. Lunch, dinner. rustypelicanbythelake.com. MCC. Sake Gardens Japanese Restaurant, 1705 Hwy. 190, 624-8955. Sesame Inn, 408 N. Causeway Blvd., 951-8888. Finest Chinese cuisine. The Scotts’ Coffee Bar, 201 Carroll St., 231-7632. Open seven days. Gourmet coffee & tea. Breakfast and lunch items available. Evening tapas menu - Fri and Sat, 6-10. thescottscoffeebar.com. Shuck & Jive, 643 Lotus Dr., 6261534. shucknjivemandeville.com. MCC

Monster Po-Boys, 1814 N. Causeway App., 626-9183. Lunch, dinner.

Smoothie King, 1830 W. Causeway App., 626-9159. Smoothies. smoothieking.com. MCC, checks.

N’Tini’s, 2891 N. Hwy. 190, 626-5566. Steaks, martinis. Lunch specials. Mon.Sat. ntinis.com. MCC.

Subway, 1665 Hwy. 190, 674-0733. Sandwiches, salads. Low-fat available. subway.com. MCC.

Nuvolari’s, 246 Girod St., 626-5619. In Old Mandeville. Gnocchi, escargot, filet mignon, linguini fruta di mare. Dinner. Open seven nights a week. MCC. nuvolaris.com.

Taqueria Noria, 1931 Hwy. 59, 7277917. Lunch, dinner.

Old Mandeville Café (formerly Kickstand Café and Bike Rental), 690 Lafitte St., 626-9300. kickstand.bz. The Old Rail Brewing Company, 639 Girod St., 612-1828. Homemade American cuisine with fresh, local ingredients. Family-friendly atmosphere. Lunch and dinner. Closed Tuesdays. Pal’s Ice Cream and Yogurt Shop, 2201 Eleventh St., 626-0293. “Only 8” all-natural no-fat yogurt, banana splits, smoothies. Soups, sandwiches. MCC. Petunia’s Place, 2020 Hwy. 59, 6743436. petuniasplace.com. Pinkberry, 3460 Hwy. 190, 612-7306. Pinkberry is the original tart frozen yogurt that is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy paired with high quality, fresh cut fruit and premium dry toppings. pinkberry.com. PJ’s Coffee & Tea Co., 2963 Hwy. 190, 674-1565. Catch your morning buzz at the convenient drive-thru! Catering. pjscoffee.com. MCC. Rip’s on the Lake, 1917 Lakeshore Dr., 727-2829. Ristorante Carmelo & Pizzaria, 1901 Hwy. 190, 624-4844. Family-oriented

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Taste of Bavaria Restaurant & Bakery, 14476 Hwy. 22, 3863634. Charming Bavarian bungalow, European-style breakfast, German-style lunch. tasteofbavariastaurant.com. MCC, checks. SLIDELL A Touch of Italy Café, 134 Pennsylvania Ave., 639-0600. Seafood, veal, steaks, daily specials. Lunch, dinner. kathrynandcompany.com. MCC, checks. Assunta’s, 2631 Hwy. 190 W., 6499768. Italian food, extensive wine selection. Dinner. assuntas.com. MCC, checks. Bear’s Grill & Spirits, 550 Gause Blvd., 201-8905. Po-boys and more. bearsgrillandspirits.com. MCC.  Bistro de la Reine, 2306 Front St., 288-4166. Sunday brunch, live entertainment, fine wines and spirits. Open seven days a week. bistrodelareine.com. MCC. Bonnie C’s, 1768 Front St., 2885061. Home-style Italian, seafood, and barbecue.

Times Bar & Grill, 1896 N. Causeway Blvd., 626-1161. Famous hamburgers, starters, steaks and more. Lunch, dinner. timesgrill.com. ME, MCC.

Camellia Cafe, 525 Hwy. 190, 649-6211. Traditional seafood and New Orleans cuisine. thecamelliacafe.com. MCC.

Trey Yuen Cuisine of China, 600 N. Causeway Blvd., 626-4476. Quality China cuisine with Louisiana flair. Lunch, dinner. treyyuen.com. MCC, checks.

Carreta’s Grill, 137 Taos St., 847-0020. Great Mexican cuisine and margaritas served in a family-friendly atmosphere for lunch and dinner. carretasgrill.com. MCC.

Vianne’s Tea House, 544 Girod St., 624-5683. A full café menu with over 120 loose leaf and speciality teas. Breakfast, lunch. viannes.com. MCC.

Eddie D’s, 39510 Hwy. 190 E., 847-1000.

VooDoo BBQ & Grill, 2999 Hwy. 190 E., 629-2021. “Taste our Magic.” voodoobbq.com. MCC. PONCHATOULA Middendorf’s Seafood Restaurant, 30160 Hwy. 51, 386-6666. middendorfsrestaurant.com. La Carreta Authentic Mexican Cuisine, 147 N.W. Railroad Ave., 370-0930. Festive Mexican atmosphere, fresh food from traditional recipes, outstanding service and value. Live music. Lunch and dinner seven days a week. carretarestaurant.com. MCC. Sister’s Coffeehouse & Cafe, 18440 Hwy. 22 E., 370-9424. Warm, friendly atmosphere, unique food, gourmet coffees, teas. MCC, checks.

KY’s Olde Towne Bicycle Shop, 2267 Carey St., 641-1911. Casual dining in former bicycle shop. Kids’ menu. Lunch, dinner. kysoldetowne. com. MCC, checks. La. Pines, 1061 Robert St., 641-6196. Meet under the water tower for Ahhhfullwaffles, Sugar Watcher specials. Breakfast, lunch. lapinescafe.com. MCC, checks. Michael’s, 4820 Pontchartrain Dr., 6498055. Steaks, seafood, veal, duck, eggplant au gratin. Extensive wine selection. Dinner. Nathan’s Restaurant, 36440 Old Bayou Liberty Rd., 643-0443. Waterfront dining featuring seafood, steaks and pasta. MCC. Nola Southern Grill, 1375 Gause Blvd., 201-8200. Burgers, ribs, steaks, pasta, sandwiches and seafood. MCC.

Palmettos on the Bayou, 1901 Bayou Ln., 643-0050. palmettosrestaurantslidell.com. Peck’s Seafood Restaurant, 2315 Gause Blvd. E., 781-7272. Po-boys, seafood, burgers and lunch specials. MCC. Phil’s Marina Café, 1194 Harbor Dr., 641-0464. philsmarinacafe.net. Shenanigans Irish Pub & Restaurant, 2165 W. Gause Blvd., 288-5286. Authentic Irish food, drink and entertainment in a traditional pub atmosphere. Smoothie King, 150 Northshore Blvd., 781-3456. Low-fat health drinks. smoothieking.com. MCC, checks. Steak Out, 1325 Gause Blvd., 6458646. Eat in or delivered to you. steakout.com. MCC. Tacos and Beer, 2142 Front St., 6414969. Lunch, dinner and late-night. Times Bar & Grill, Front St., 641-4969. Famous hamburgers, starters, steaks and more. Lunch, dinner. timesgrill.com. ME, MCC. The Wine Market, 2051 E. Gause Blvd., 781-1177. Deli restaurant, lunch, 11am-3pm. Sandwiches, soups, salads, wraps. MCC and checks. WOW Café & Wingery, 2170 Gause Blvd. W., 661-9692. Wings, burgers, wraps and more. MCC. Young’s Restaurant, 850 Robert Blvd., 643-9331. Steaks, seafood, nice wine selection. Dinner. youngssteakhouse.com. MCC, checks. NEW ORLEANS/SOUTHSHORE Café Giovanni, 117 Rue Decatur, (504)-529-2154. Chef Duke’s New World Italian Cuisine. Dinner, SunThurs, 5:30-10pm. Fri-Sat, 5:30-11pm. Live Entertainment Wed, Thurs, and Friday Evenings. Perfect Catering for next social or business event. Cafegiovanni.com. RR. Criollo Resturant and Lounge at Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal St., (504)-523-3340. hotelmonteleone. com/criollo/. MCC, RR Restaurant R’evolution, 777 Bienville St., (504)-553-2277. Located at the Royal Sonesta Hotel. Offering modern, imaginative reinterpretations of classic Cajun and Creole Cuisine. Triptych of Quail and Oysterman’s spaghettini. Revolutionnola.com. RR.

B U S I N E S S

P R O F I L E l to r: Current day Maison Lafitte event venue and as the historic home appeared in the early 1900s. Owners Danny Sinclair and Cayman Sinclair.

Located under the oaks in Old Mandeville, Maison Lafitte is the epitome of romantic Southern charm. A private residence until its sale around 2002, it is listed on the National Historic Registry. Recently purchased by Danny and Cayman Sinclair, the graceful Eastlake-style home is now available for events and parties. The Sinclair brothers grew up in Mandeville and have a particular fondness for the property. “As a child, I used to attend Our Lady of the Lake and would pass by the house every Sunday. To now own this, such an historic piece of Old Mandeville, I feel an even more rooted connection with the community,” says Cayman. With 30 years in the hospitality industry, Cayman and his brother Danny have a special vision for Maison Lafitte. Recent renovations have transformed the space into a venue perfectly suited for weddings, receptions, parties and meetings. The addition of a permanent covered gazebo increases the capacity for events and allows guests to enjoy the beautiful, lush landscaping. The modifications to the historic building were carefully thought out to ensure the charming original touches were preserved; the wrap-around front porch, floor-to-ceiling windows, marble-top fireplace and beautiful millwork make Maison Lafitte a unique venue. Brides are provided a private suite and sitting area with a beautiful view of the garden and grounds, and the proximity to the church makes the location perfect for weddings. Depending on the occasion, the property, including the outdoor spaces, can accommodate between 100-300 guests; it has an on-site commercial kitchen.

Maison Lafitte

The Sinclairs have a reputation on the northshore for providing outstanding food and service; they owned and operated LA Grill for over 10 years. Cayman acquired The Lakehouse Restaurant almost 4 years ago and hosts events, on a smaller scale, there as well. Between the innovative and delicious catering menu and the beautiful house and grounds, event planning is designed to be effortless, and with the refurbishments complete, Maison Lafitte is ready to entertain. This beautiful historic landmark promises to be a very sought-after venue. Events coordinator Sara Adams already has bookings from November into the spring. To book your “Celebration with Southern Sophistication,” contact Sara at 985-807-5014. Maison Lafitte is located at 402 Lafitte St. in Mandeville. September-October 2013 179

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IN Development by Lauren Smith

photo: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

TerraBella Village

NEW URBANISM has taken root on the northshore. TerraBella Village in Covington is a Traditional Neighborhood Development seeking a different way of life, one of yesteryear. But don’t mistake this backward-focused way of looking toward the future as antiquated or outdated—it’s anything but. Influenced by the River Ranch, a successful TND near Lafayette, La., TerraBella encompasses all that was, and is, great about small towns and smaller neighborhoods. “It’s the only one of its kind on the northshore,” says Jeff Sonnenberg, marketing and sales director. “About nine years ago, we heard about River Ranch and met the architect and town planner, Steve Oubre. The River Ranch property was almost identical in size to ours. We invited Steve up, he came with his crew and they created TerraBella.”

TerraBella is a true village, offering tree-lined streets, sidewalks perfect for a stroll, a Village Square, restaurants, shopping, professional services, a 140acre nature preserve with hiking trails, parks and a fiber-optic network to homes. Oubre was motivated by New Urbanism in his design of TerraBella. New Urbanism dates back to the early 1980s in the United States. It promotes walkable neighborhoods that contain a variety of housing types and jobs. Over the years, as automobiles became more popular and interstates expanded, distances grew between where people worked and where they lived and shopped, giving rise to the now-familiar suburban subdivisions and shopping centers that are automobile dependent. Oubre’s vision is an accessible way of life that takes cars out of the equation, keeps >> September-October 2013 181

them in back lanes and garages and puts charming Southern architecture front and center. He created guidelines to ensure that every home in TerraBella, big or small, upholds the integrity and value of the neighborhood. In an effort to maintain a high level of quality and expertise in the construction of the village’s homes, TerraBella has brought together a select group of builders to form its Builders Guild. including Martin & Malkemus, LLC, Conbeth, Inc., and Ron Lee Homes. Members of the guild have been carefully selected for their solid reputations and passion for the village. Each builder has been educated about the unique community and brings a different perspective and years of experience to the project. “We have to control everything that is built,” says Sonnenberg. “You cannot build a house here unless it is architecturally approved by Steve Oubre. We don’t allow any vinyl; all materials have great durability. What’s appealing to the buyer is the diversity of the product. This is not a cookie-cutter look.” TerraBella received national recognition when one of its homes was selected as the Southern Living 2010 Idea House. A beautiful portrait of traditional Southern architecture, the house has an open floor plan and a vibrant interior fit for the modern family. Currently in Phase 1, TerraBella is truly in development, but it already boasts an impressive list of amenities, including a man-made lake for canoeing and row boating, and Tony Bosco’s at 182

Inside Northside

TerraBella restaurant. There is more on the way. TerraBella is zoned both commercial and residential. “One day, there will be a school, a grocery, a bakery, dry cleaners,” says Sonnenberg. “All of these are meant to be at TerraBella. The key is to have enough people physically living in the village to support the commercial businesses.” When finished, roughly 750 families will live in the village’s luxury apartments, condominiums, townhouses and single-family homes. TerraBella’s access to Highway 1085, which intersects Highway 21, keeps the village “open to the world,” says Sonnenberg. “TerraBella happens to be in what we call the ‘path of progress.’ This end of St. Tammany Parish has had a phenomenal increase in the last 10 years. Five years ago, we started with a trailer on this property, and now we have 45 families living here, 15 houses under construction and another 20 houses in design.” Sonnenberg says many people come to TerraBella because they are ready to downsize. “Their kids have gone off to college, they want a smaller yard and they don’t need 4,000 square feet anymore. They want something more manageable, and they want it to be nice. They’re used to nice.” By building a small village around a town center and green space, TerraBella fosters a sense of community long lost in modern times. These simple things make TerraBella not just a better place to live, but a better way to live. To find out more about TerraBella, visit terrabellavillage.com.

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

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Inside Northside

Directory of Advertisers ADVERTISER...........................CONTACT INFO PAGE 10/12 Properties.................... 985-626-8200 103, 183 Accents & Things.................... 985-649-4273 112 Agena, Dr. Gary M. - OBGYN... 985-845-7121 73 Air Blow Dry Bar & Salon........ 985-626-1402 Polo-8 All Wrapped Up...................... 985-778-2041 159 Al’s Plumbing Co.................... 985-845-9390 50 American Factory Direct.......... 985-871-0300 46 Anne’s Boutique..................... 985-626-3099 127 Arabella Fine Gifts.................. 985-727-9787 111 Armbruster Artworks Studio.... 985-630-6295 Polo-20 Artisan Home Décor............... 985-778-2113 112 Artistry of Light...................... 225-247-8963 8 Asset One.............................. 985-727-2834 38 Barley Oak, The...................... 985-727-7420 60 Bastille’s Clothing Company... 985-626-4220 123 Bea Connick Linen Apparel..... 228-467-2800 119 Bedico Creek Preserve............ 985-845-4200 167 Bella Cucina........................... 985-626-7886 155 Berger Home.......................... 985-624-3433 50 Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights... 985-249-6040 Polo-5 Blue Hickory Barbeque........... 985-871-4216 176 Boudreaux’s Fine Jewelers...... 985-626-1666 Polo-16 Bra la Vie!.............................. 985-662-5065 85 Bras for a Cause.............brasforacausela.com 89 brown eyed girl...................... 985-626-0100 129 Brown Family Orthodontics..... 985-626-8297 75 California Drawstrings Northshore.... 985-327-7300 129 Capital One............................capitalone.com Polo-20 Carreta’s Grill........ 985-871-6674, 847-0020 23 Cedarwood School................. 985-845-7111 74 Center for Women’s Health..... 985-249-7022 97 Champagne Beverage Co.............................. ............................. champagnebeverage.com Polo-19 Champagne Jewelers............. 985-643-2599 85 Chris Wynne Designs..................................... ......................chriswynnedesigns.tumblr.com 184 Christwood Retirement Community............... ......................................... christwoodrc.com 64 Church of the King................. 985-727-7017 20 Columbia Street Mercantile.... 985-809-1789 127 Columbia Theatre .......... columbiatheatre.org 28 Computer Troubleshooters...... 985-624-2302 184 Covington Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Clinic................... 985-892-5117 165 Culinary Kids.......................... 985-727-5553 184 Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.....louisiana.cff.org 116 De Boscq Jewelry................... 985-674-0007 4 deCoeur...................................... decoeur.net Polo-20 DeLuca’s Expressions in Gold.... 985-892-2317 161 Designs in Windows............... 985-209-1689 111 Dickey’s Barbecue Pit.............. 985-871-2225 184 DivorceCare........................... 985-727-9200 38 Dr. Burkenstock, Skin Body Health.................. ............................................. 985-727-7676 158 Dr. Richie Roth....................... 888-600-2393 69 Earthsavers............................ 985-674-1133 119 EMB Interiors......................... 985-626-1522 34 Emma’s Shoes and Accessories... 985-778-2200 168 Eros Home & Clothing............ 985-727-0034 124 Etan Enterprises..................... 985-966-7042 37 Fairway Medical Surgical Hospital.................. ......................................fairwaymedical.com 75 Fazzio’s Restaurant & Bar....... 985-624-9704 176 Fertility Institute..............fertilityinstitute.com 169 Fielding Photography.............. 985-626-7549 70 Fitness Expo........................... 504-887-0880 59 Fleurt..................................... 985-809-8844 155 Florist of Covington................ 985-892-7701 67 Fostering Angels..................... 985-373-8223 123 Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter.......... ............................................. 504-524-7611 25

ADVERTISER...........................CONTACT INFO PAGE Franco’s Athletic Club............. 985-792-0200 BC french mix, the....................... 985-809-3152 25 Genesis Pure - Pete Taggard... 985-373-6487 106 George’s Girls........................ 228-216-0558 119 George’s Mexican Restaurant. 985-626-4342 180 GNL Contractors.................... 985-288-5112 33 GNO Property Management... 504-528-7028 183 Grapevine, The.... grapevinegiftsandgallery.com 111 Grieshaber Dermatology......... 985-893-1035 53 H2O Salon............................. 985-951-8166 103 Hazelnut................................ 985-626-8900 92 Hestia Luxury in Linens........... 985-893-0490 112 History Antiques & Interiors.... 985-892-0010 115 Holly’s Cakes & Confections.... 985-966-1067 184 Home Bank....................... home24bank.com 167 Honda of Covington............... 985-892-0001 2 Huntington Learning Center... 985-727-0000 19 Hurley Homes......................... 985-966-5280 49 Infusé Oils & Vinegars............ 985-778-0903 16 Integrated Spine & Disc.......... 985-626-0999 79 Integrity Builders, Inc.............. 985-626-3479 34 Istre Hearing Care.................. 985-845-3509 67 Jennifer Rice Realty Group...... 985-892-1478 183 Jill Gibson, MD, LLC................ 985-898-5990 39 Jim Stone Co.......................... 985-882-5907 115 Jos. A. Bank............................ 985-624-4067 116 Joy Productions LLC............thejoytheater.com 33 Ju Ju’s Boutique..................... 985-624-3600 127 Jubilee Restaurant & Courtyard.... 985-778-2552 177 K. Gee’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar... 985-626-0530 180 KentJacob Color Salon............ 985-845-8011 172 Key to the Cure...................... 800-429-0996 156 Koko Fit Club......................... 985-746-4161 120 La Bella Vita Laser & Vein....... 985-892-2950 82 Lafargue Pianos..................... 504-831-3008 31 Lake After Hours..................... 985-375-9979 53 Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation............. ............................................. 504-836-2205 117 Lakehouse, The....................... 985-626-3006 177 Lakeview Regional Medical Center................. ............................................. 985-867-3800 IBC Laurier................................... 985-875-0823 123 LCI Workers Comp.................. 985-612-1230 173 Lift Training Studios................ 985-727-1540 6 Louisiana Custom Closets....... 985-871-0810 99 Louisiana Heart Hospital... louisianaheart.com 3, 21 Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra... 504-523-6530 27 Louisiana Polo Farms, Inc........ 985-796-9130 Polo-2 Lowe’s Jewelers..................... 985-845-4653 89 M. Celeste Lagarde, MD......... 985-898-0589 94 Maison Lafitte........................ 985-807-5014 179 Mandeville Center for Dental Excellence........ ............................................. 985-626-4401 5 Mandeville’s Octoberfeast............................. ......................... mandevilleoctoberfeast.com 128 Martin & Malkemus................ 985-635-4421 170 Mary Bird Perkins...............marybird.org/stph 93 Medical Center Diagnostics LLC.... 985-809-0000 98 mélange by KP....................... 985-807-7652 112 Mellow Mushroom................. 985-327-5407 59 Men Who Cook/ The Hope House.................. ................................ menwhocookevent.com 180 Michalopoulos Gallery............ 504-558-0505 20 Mix, The................................. 985-727-7649 Polo-15 Monster Mash........................ 985-898-4435 162 Moody Law Firm.................... 985-542-1351 105 MoreSmiles-Dr. Jim Moreau ... 985-809-7645 70 New Orleans Ballet Association...504-522-0996 30 New Orleans Opera Association... 504-529-3000 31 Niche Modern Home.............. 985-624-4045 29

ADVERTISER...........................CONTACT INFO PAGE NOMA........................................... noma.org 27 North American Insurance Agency.. 985-871-5480 45 NORTH Institute, The.............. 985-871-4114 56 North Oaks Health System........northoaks.org 16 North Shore Square Mall........ 985-646-0661 130 Northshore Harbor Center...... 985-781-3650 157 Northshore Window Works..... 985-893-5010 37 Oasis Day Spa, The................. 985-624-6772 161 Oil & Vinegar.......................... 985-809-1693 111 Oktoberfest - Mwana Mission Project............ ............................................. 985-727-1417 63 Old Rail Brewing Company, The... 985-612-1828 60 Outdoor Living Center............ 985-893-8008 49 Paisley................................... 985-727-7880 123 Palatial Stone & Tile................ 504-340-2229 15 Pan American Power............... 985-893-1271 11 Paretti Jaguar......................... 504-455-2101 68 Pine Grove Lighting & Electrical Supply.......... ............................................. 985-893-4003 170 Poole Lumber Company.......... 985-892-4500 46 POSH Boutique...................... 985-898-2639 120 Private Beach......................... 985-674-2326 124 Profit on Hold........................ 800-569-4653 68 Purple Armadillo Again.... purplearmadillo.net 127 Rapid Urgent Care................. 985-674-4464 90 Real Results Weight Loss Clinic....985-590-4061 24 Rehab Dynamics LLC.............. 985-871-7878 82 Resource Bank...............bankonresource.com 73 Richard C. Dalton LLC............. 985-778-2215 164 Rick’s Professional Painting Service.... 985-845-0533 184 Rug Chic................................ 985-674-1070 106 St. Joseph Abbey......... saintjosephabbey.com 19 St. Paul’s School..................... 985-892-3200 170 St. Romain Interiors................ 985-845-7411 115 St. Scholastica Academy......... 985-892-2540 90 St. Tammany Parish Hospital... 985-898-4000 87 Saks Fifth Avenue................... 504-524-2200 7 Schneider, MD, Ellen............... 985-781-7531 32 Scotts’ Coffee & Tapas Bar, The... 985-231-7632 180 Shoefflé.....................................shoeffle.com 124 Slidell Memorial Hospital........ 985-643-2200 101 Southeast Louisiana Urology Associates......... ............................................. 985-542-1226 105 Southern Brain & Spine......504-454-0141 x1 Polo-11 Southern Bridal...................... 985-727-2993 161 Southern Pain Center............. 985-727-7275 120 Southern Rep Theatre.......... southernrep.com 30 State Farm Insurance, C J Ladner... 985-892-5030 129 Stone Source.......................... 985-892-0695 129 Studio 311............................. 985-327-7775 161 Studio MV.............................. 985-867-5601 117 Summers Neurosurgery LLC.... 985-419-7767 Polo-24 Surgical Specialists................whyweight.com 63 Tchefuncta Club Estates.........tchefuncta.com 13 TerraBella............................... 985-871-7171 45 Thomas Franks Fine Jewelers... 985-626-5098 10 Three Rivers Gallery................ 985-892-2811 115 Three Sisters Boutique............ 985-386-8680 124 Town & Country Travel, Inc...... 504-838-8702 82 Tran, Dr. David..........................985-400-LIVE 98 Truitt Law Firm, The................ 985-327-5266 Polo-23 Vantage Point........................ 985-259-7774 72 Villa, The................................ 985-626-9797 119 Village Executive Office Suites,The... 985-727-6700 170 Vivere Audubon..................... 504-891-1390 22, 108 Wax’d.................................... 985-778-2005 120 Windsor Senior Living Community, The........... ............................................. 985-624-8040 28 You Night........................younightevents.com 100 Youth Service Bureau.............. 985-893-2570 184 You-Tique............................... 985-327-7102 119 September-October 2013 185

Scott Discon and Scott Williams The Scotts’ Coffee & Tapas Bar

The siren’s song of waterfront living called Scott Discon and Scott Williams to Old Mandeville. Hurricane Katrina irrevocably tied them to the community. And a trip to Greece inspired their restaurant: The Scotts’ Coffee & Tapas Bar. “Scott and I met in Atlanta,” explains Discon, who is a lawyer by day and moonlights as the restaurant’s marketing director. “We wanted to move to a coastal town.” Originally from New Orleans, Discon spent many childhood summers on the northshore. He and Williams moved to Old Mandeville just months before Katrina and fought to help their new community rebuild. When the two discussed opening a restaurant, they knew it had to be in Old Mandeville, near the water, dog friendly and allow for al fresco dining. They jumped at the chance to open a café in the historic St. Tammany Bank building on the corner of Carroll and Claiborne streets and opened the doors in June 2012. Williams, with a background in food service, manages the day-to-day operations of the business. His charming presence and contagious smile are key to the restaurant’s success.

“The espresso machine is the jewel of our shop,” says Williams. “People like seeing real espresso come out of a real espresso machine.” A comprehensive coffee menu includes a mix of organic and fair-trade blends. Breakfast features house-made baked goods, breakfast sandwiches and bagels. Lunch offers a variety of salads and sandwiches. Williams was instrumental in bringing Chef 186

Inside Northside

by Amanda M. Westbrooks

Robert Vasquez in to develop a creative evening dining experience. On Friday and Saturday nights, The Scotts’ Coffee & Tapas Bar shifts into a full-service restaurant serving shareable tapas and a full beverage menu. “The menu changes every week. I rarely cook the same thing twice,” says Vasquez. His dedication to seasonal local products plays a big part in his menu design. “I’m not trying to recreate the wheel—I just like to work with food.” “His deviled eggs are his signature dish,” says Lindsey Jo Vasquez, Scotts’ event planner and Rob’s wife. “He always comes up with a new way to prepare them every week” There’s also a brunch on Sundays. “It’s unbelievable, what that man can do with grits,” says Discon. Having passed their one-year anniversary, the Scotts love their niche in the community. “I feel like we’re a little dark horse,” says Williams. “People always tell us, ‘I love your place; I hope you’re doing well!’ Well, we’re doing great; we’re doing wonderful!”

(left to right): Lindsey Jo and Chef Robert Vasquez, Scott Williams and Scott Discon.

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

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