May-June 2019 Issue of Inside Northside Magazine

495

$

INSIDEPUB.com

GAYLE BENSON •

SLIDELL PD ... LIVE! • RAISING THE ROOF • MORE THAN FOOTBALL

MAY-JUNE 2019 VOL. 34, NO. 3

May-June 2019

Vol. 34, No. 3

Publisher Lori Murphy –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Editor-in-Chief Anne Honeywell

Senior Editor

Managing Editor

Jan Murphy Leah Draffen

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Señor Art Director

Brad Growden

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Business Manager

Senior Account Executives

Check us out online at insidepub.com.

Barbara Bossier

Jane Quillin

Jonée Daigle-Ferrand

Poki Hampton

Candice Laizer

Barbara Roscoe

Account Executives

Candy Maness

Amy Taylor

Margaret Rivera

Advertising Coordinator

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Advertise phone

(985) 626-9684

fax (985) 674-7721 email sales@insidepub.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Contribute Please send items for Inside Scoop to scoop@insidepub.com.

Photos for Inside Peek, with captions, should be sent to peek@insidepub.com. Submit items for editorial consideration to editor@insidepub.com.

On the cover

Contact

mail P.O. Box 9148

Mandeville, LA 70470 phone

(985) 626-9684

fax (985) 674-7721 Cover Artist Catherine Camp.

Find more on page 18.

website insidepub.com

Subscriptions 1 Year $18 2 Years $30 email subscriptions@insidepub.com

INSIDE NORTHSIDE 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. Tammany and Tangipahoa Parishes, Louisiana. Bulk Postage paid at Mandeville, LA. Copy­right ©2019 by M & 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.

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Inside Northside

contents table of

page 28

Features 18 A Healing Journey Cover Artist Catherine Camp 28 A Forever Home page 60

64 Gayle Benson 76 Slidell PD...LIVE! 82 Raising the Roof for Charity 2019

page XX

86 More than Football

The Bayou Lacombe Cardinals 91 Why Heart Walk?

page 86

Women IN Business 2019 Begins on page 35

Departments 12 Publisher’s Note 14 Editor’s Note 16 Contributors

57 Flourishes Extraordinary gifts and home accents 60 INside Look

101 Haute Plates

74 Traces DogHouse Design

103 Inside Dining

26 IN Other Words Love is in the Air

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Inside Northside

92 IN Love & Marriage 94 Inside Peek Featuring Garden Party Spring for Art at the JLGC Chef Soirée Meet the Artists Party Business After Hours

22 INside Scoop

page 76

84 Generous Hearts Baptist Community Ministries

106 Last Bite Salty Joe’s BBQ

From Willie, with love

by Lori Murphy From Willie with love...

There are numerous examples of Willie Paretti’s love for our community. Organizations and endeavors she poured her heart and soul into spanned her lifetime. She was a mother, a wife, a partner, an instigator, a cheerleader, a dancer, a coach and a problem solver.

She was witty and generous, open-hearted and sincere. To me, and to many, she was a great friend.

In addition to her role as a successful business woman, Willie Paretti served as Chairman of the Board for Lakeview Regional Medical Center for 35 years and was recognized with the St. Tammany West Chamber’s 2013 Community Leadership Award and as a YMCA Hero. Active with the Children’s Advocacy Center and Hope House, STARC and so many others, her influence in projects and programs across the northshore are far too many to name. As a founding member of the Northshore Community Foundation, she helped guide our region into philanthropy—but she also championed the very individual needs of young adults who needed a place to stay or a way to get to work. No job was too big or too small to merit her attention. And it came so naturally to her.

It was said that “Willie always got what she wanted.” The most remarkable thing about Willie getting what she wanted is that her wants were very seldom for herself. She saw the world around her with a great deal of clarity, and where she saw need, she looked for solutions. She would encourage, enlist and lead by example those whose support the current project required. And she almost always got the results she wanted.

When the pride and joy of her life, her seven grandchildren, stood to speak at the service celebrating her life, it was clear that as much as we benefited from her love and leadership, her most valuable gift was in sharing her grace and character with her family. They are the legacy she leaves. Not a dry eye in the house.

Thank you, Willie, for everything.

Editor’s Note

by Anne Honeywell Spring has sprung!

April showers have brought May flowers and another celebration of sorts—our fabulous Women IN Business issue.

Each spring, Inside Northside celebrates local business women by showcasing them in a different light. We try to get them talking about themselves and their passions to help our readers understand more about the person behind the title or logo. And every spring, as editor, I see the copy rolling through, reading the interviews and understanding the stories of these stand-out business women. I feel like I learn something new every day. And meet someone new.

One particular woman in business I think you will enjoy learning more about is Gayle Benson, who was gracious enough to sit down with Leslie Cardé for an in-depth interview. You may be impressed with her now, but wait until you read Leslie’s story!

Another highlight of this issue is on the participation of the Slidell police department in A&E’s show, Live PD. Also, enjoy Poki Hampton’s article about a beautiful forever home designed by Jennifer Dicerbo and French Mix. And don’t miss Karen Gibbs’ article on a surprising local men’s football team. (No, not THAT one.)

Of course, you’ll find our regular departments, from Scoop’s jam-packed calendar of events to Becky Slatten’s latest IN Other Words and my article on cover artist Catherine Camp. Check out spring and summer fashion and home accessories in INside Look and Flourishes, and pick out a new place for dinner out from Haute Plates and our INside Dining guide.

I hope you find time to relax with a glass of your favorite cool beverage and enjoy this issue!

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Inside Northside

Contributors Our contributors give Inside Northside its voice, its personality and its feel. Here we are proud to highlight a couple of them so that you can put a face with a name and get to know them.

Danielle Dietze

Danielle is a new contributing writer for Inside Publications. She owns and operates The White Roach, a record and clothing store on Magazine Street in New Orleans. She’s worked in many outlets of the music industry, including the House of Blues, WWOZ and the Johnny Cash Museum in Nashville. This month, she explores Fontainebleau High School’s exciting new business venture, DogHouse Productions, on page 74.

Leslie Cardé Veteran journalist Leslie Cardé began her career reporting for NPR in Los Angeles. From there, she landed in New Orleans as an anchor/health and science editor before moving on to anchor three hours of daily financial news and host an entertainment show for CNBC. She’s reported from the Middle East for CNN, worked as a producer and narrator for E! Entertainment and wrote, directed and produced the award-winning documentary America Betrayed. Leslie currently writes for The New Orleans Advocate and Los Angeles Magazine. She is also a producer/reporter for CBS Newspath. See Leslie’s article about Gayle Benson on page 64 and also Live PD on page 76.

Other Voices: Sara Essex Bradley, Susan Bonnett Bourgeois, Leah Draffen, Candra George, Thomas B. Growden, Poki Hampton, Paige Henderson and Anne Honeywell.

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Inside Northside

A Healing Journey Cover Artist Catherine Camp

LOCAL ARTIST CATHERINE CAMP took a renewed interest in painting about 15 years ago while recovering and rebuilding herself after a bout with cancer. In 2004, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatments. At the time, Catherine and her husband had an eight-year-old daughter and twin five-year-old girls. She says, “It was a long, hard eight months that took an emotional toll on me and my family.”

Once on the other side of the treatments and proclaimed “cancer free,” she decided to make some changes in her life. “Life is too short not to do what you love,” says Camp. A full-time mom at the time of her diagnosis, she had put her career as an architect on hold to raise their three girls. After her cancer treatment, Catherine decided to get back into the part of architecture she enjoyed the most—the “art” side of it. >> 18

Inside Northside

“I always loved the renderings and the creative side of being an architect. It’s the reason I took watercolor courses throughout my studies in college.”

Camp is a graduate of Louisiana Tech University, with a degree in architecture. That degree has always influenced her love of the arts. She explains, “My interest for art seems to have transformed into a passion for painting, and it has continued to grow over the years. I have been cancer-free for sixteen years. I used the dark time in my life to recognize the light and beauty all around me. To find my passion for living.

My passion for life.” This passion is what has allowed Camp to express her joy for life in her paintings.

“I looked up art classes offered through the St. Tammany Art Association and took some oil painting classes, which I had never done before.” Those classes soon evolved into several workshops and led her to >>

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

by Anne Honeywell

Meet Artist Catherine Camp at Mélange by kp 1814 N. Causeway Blvd.

Next to Joe’s Shoes

Thursday, May 16 5:30-7:30 Everyone’s invited!

working with Gretchen Armbruster. “I discovered that painting was just the creative outlet I needed; it was just what the doctor ordered!

Though Camp has a dedicated studio at her home in Covington, she still enjoys going to Armbruster Artworks to paint. “I enjoy getting Gretchen’s input as well as that of my fellow artists. We are a tight-knit group that gets together once a week to paint.

It is a designated time for me to do what I love.”

Camp is known for her tranquil Louisiana-themed landscapes and wildlife paintings. She draws inspiration from the natural world around her. “We are 20

Inside Northside

fortunate enough have some acreage on our property here in Covington, with ponds and wildlife all around. Egrets often visit, and ducks; I am constantly inspired every time I look out of my window.“ Camp’s loose, bold, impressionistic style continues to develop. While she still primarily paints with oils, her use of the pallet knife and broad brush strokes help to create texture and interest while keeping her work very fluid. “With my architecture background, I used to have a hard time accepting the fact that everything did not have to look realistic.

I think that’s why I enjoy painting landscapes; they don’t have to look as exact as buildings do.

“Recently, while I was cleaning out my studio, I found some of my older pieces and realized how far I have come in the past ten years. I am definitely changing. It has been a journey.”

Besides landscapes, Catherine often chooses horses as her subjects. Her daughters used to ride horses in Folsom, which gave her plenty of time to study them. “My daughters were my equestrian consultants,” she laughs. “Now, I think I’ve got it.” In fact, one of her favorite earlier paintings she has kept is of her daughter’s horse, Northern Lights. Camp adds to this thought: “I also love to paint cows! Cows have wonderful expressions.”

Camp’s paintings have served

photos: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

For more information, call 985.626.9684.

to benefit others through the Junior League of Greater Covington (Harvest Cup Polo Artist 2016) and the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Foundation.

The hospital experience really hit home with Camp. “I was a featured artist in a Healing Arts exhibit at the hospital. The exhibit was titled Healing Journey, and oh, how that resonated with me. The entire initiative of arts as a culture that can lighten the burden of illness did as well—it gave me pause for reflection on my own healing journey and how much art had been part of my healing.”

Thank you, Catherine Camp, for taking us on your beautiful healing journey.

May-June 2019 21

INSIDE the definitive guide to northshore events and entertainment

Columbia Street Block Party

May children’s books read for story time, lead

Theatre, 880 Lafayette St, Mandeville.

Festival. Chris Stapleton, Gary Clark Jr.,

craft projects and interact with the children

30byNinety.com.

Dianna Ross, Aaron Neville and hundreds

and their parents. St. Francisville. (225) 245-

more. nojazzfest.com.

5025. facebook.com/WFCBF.

1-31 EMB Interiors Annual May Sale.

New location: 1685 N Causeway Blvd, Mandeville. 626-1522.

2, 9, 16, 23 Lamaze Childbirth Class.

4-31 Rolland Golden Solo Show. Opening

Lakeview Regional Medical Center, Magnolia

reception, May 4, 6-9pm. MacGryder

Room, 95 Judge Tanner Blvd, Covington.

Gallery, 615 Julia St, New Orleans.

200 Years of American Art. M.S. Rau

6:30-9:30pm. Limited to 20 participants.

MacGryderGallery.com.

Antiques, 630 Royal St, New Orleans. Mon-

867-3900. lakeviewregional.com.

1- June 8 From Sea to Shining Sea:

Sat, 9am-5pm. Free. rauantiques.com.

1-Oct 6 Art of the City: Postmodern to Post-Katrina. New Orleans artist Jan Gilbert assembles works of artists during

3 B Street Benny at Mandeville Live.

Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St. 6:30pm. cityofmandeville.com.

4 Covington Art Market. Covington

5 Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. All-day party, food and fun. All La Carreta locations. carretarestaurant.com.

8 Cotillion Parents’ Reception. For parents to learn more and sign up for the 5th

three decades. The Historic New Orleans

Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St.

through 8th grade Junior Cotillion and 9th

Collection, 520 Royal St, New Orleans.

9am-1pm. covla.com.

through 12th grade High School Cotillion.

Tues-Sat,9:30am-4:30pm; Sun, 10:30 am-4:30 pm. hnoc.org.

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2-5 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage

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

4 West Feliciana Children’s Book Festival. Authors and illustrators of

Tchefuncta Country Club, 2 Pinecrest Dr, Covington. 7pm. (504) 884-6575.

photo: THOMAS B GROWDEN

1-12 The Great Big Doorstep. 30 by Ninety

May 24, June 28 Columbia Street Block Party. Classic car show, block party, music, street vendors, food, drinks and more. Downtown Covington. 6:309:30pm. Free. covla.com.

9 Poki-Dynamic Jewelry Trunk Show.

Cdn Clothing, 221 Lee Lane, Covington.

4-7pm. 327-7300.

10 Cocktails & Cotton Candy. Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Louisiana Covington Fundraiser. Covington Boys & Girls Club, 919 N Columbia St, Covington. 6:30-9pm. bgcsela.org.

10 Leadercast St. Tammany. Oneday leadership event broadcasted live.

Tickets include program, lunch and snacks. Movie Tavern Northshore, 201 N Hwy 190, Covington. 8am-2:30pm. sttammanychamber.org.

10 Mary Queen of Peace Golf Tournament. Beau Chêne Golf and Country Club, 602 N Beau Chêne Dr, Mandeville. 10am. mqpcs19.golfgenius. com.

10 Northlake Newcomers Club May Luncheon. Father Bill from Christ Episcopal Church will speak. Benedict’s Plantation, 1144 N Causeway Blvd, Mandeville.

10am. Members, $26.50; guests, $29.50. northlakenewcomers.com.

11 Northshore Picnic with a Purpose.

Seafood and live music by Four Unplugged to benefit the construction of the new Family Promise Day Center on the Safe Haven Campus. Fontainebleau Sate Park, 62883 Louisiana 1089, Mandeville. 1-5pm. Adults, $25; children 6-18 years old, $15; under 6, free. bit.ly/2YMazKL. 11-12, 18-19 Northshore Parade of Homes. Various home locations. 12-5pm. northshorehba.org.

12 Mother’s Day Home Tour. Private homes in the historic district. Sponsored by the Old Mandeville Historic Association. 2-5pm. $20.>> May-June 2019 23

Inside Scoop oldmandevillehistoricassociation.org.

17 Wine 101 Beverage Academy at the Grand Hotel. One Grand Blvd, Point Clear, Alabama. 5:30pm. (251) 928-9201. grandhotelpointclearal.eventbrite.com.

18 Cooking Essentials V: EntrĂŠes-SautĂŠ, Culinary Academy at the Grand. One Grand Blvd, Point Clear, Alabama. 10am.

(251) 928-9201. grandhotelpointclearal. eventbrite.com.

18 NAMIWalks St. Tammany. Walk for mental health by registering your team of family, friends and co-workers. Mandeville Lakefront. 8am; start, 9am. namiwalks.org/ sttammany.

19 Raising the Roof for Charity $5,000 Cash Drawing. northshorehba.org.

20 Free Weight Loss Seminar. North Oaks Clinic Building 4th Floor, 15813 Paul Vega, M.D., Dr, Hammond. 5:30-6:30pm. northoaks.org/weightloss.

24 Columbia Street Block Party. Downtown Covington. 6:30-9:30pm. covla.com.

24, 26 Billy Joel and Elton John Hits.

Presented by the Northlake Performing Arts Society. Fuhrmann Auditorium, Covington. npassingers.org.

24-27 Memorial Day Weekend Promo.

Gift with Purchase. Palm Village, A Signature Lilly Pulitzer Store, 2735 US 190, Mandeville.

778-2547.

25-26 Bayou Country Superfest. Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, Florida George Line, Dan + Shay, Cassadee Pope and more. LSU Tiger Stadium, Baton Rouge. bayoucountrysuperfest.com.

31-June 2 Walker Percy Weekend. St. Francisville featuring books, discussions and conversation. (225) 635-6330, (800) 7894221. walkerpercyweekend.org.

June 1 Covington Art Market. Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St. 9am-1pm. covla.com.

1 Kokomo Stroll. Downtown Covington.

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

5-9pm. gocovington.org.

1 Northshore Heart Walk. Fontainebleau State Park, 62883 Hwy 1089, Mandeville.

8am. northshoreheartwalk.org.

1 Raising the Roof for Charity Grand Drawing. northshorehba.org.

1-2 Walker Percy Weekend. Literary festival in St. Francisville featuring books, ideas, discussions, bourbon, crawfish and conversation. (225) 635-6330, (800) 7894221. walkerpercyweekend.org.

1-8 From Sea to Shining Sea: 200 Years of American Art. M.S. Rau Antiques, 630 Royal St, New Orleans. Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm.

Free. rauantiques.com.

3-7 Fit As A Firefighter Summer Camp.

Presented by Slidell Memorial Hospital, Ochsner and St. Tammany Fire Protection District 1 for children ages 8-13. Held at Camp Villere, 34845 Grantham College Dr, Slidell. 280-8529. slidellmemorial.org.

14 Scotch: The Gentleman’s Delight. One Grand Blvd, Point Clear, Alabama. 5:30pm.

(251) 928-9201. grandhotelpointclearal. eventbrite.com.

15 Travel Through Spain, Culinary Academy at the Grand Hotel. One Grand Blvd, Point Clear, Alabama. 10am.

(251) 928-9201. grandhotelpointclearal. eventbrite.com.

15-30 A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. 30 by Ninety Theatre, 880 Lafayette St, Mandeville. 30byNinety.com.

28 Columbia Street Block Party. Downtown Covington. 6:30-9:30pm. covla.com.

29 Slidell Heritage Festival. Live music, food, games and firework display benefitting local charities. Slidell Heritage Park, 1701 Bayou Ln. 4-11pm. slidellheritagefest.org.

30 Lilly Pulitzer Anniversary Event. Palm Village, A Signature Lilly Pulitzer Store, 2735 US 190, Mandeville. 778-2547.

Send your event information to scoop@insidepub.com to have it featured in an upcoming issue of Inside Northside.

May-June 2019 25

IN Other Words

by Becky Slatten

Love is in the Air IT’S WEDDING SEASON, Y’ALL, and everybody just needs to calm down.

I myself was a June bride 5 years ago, and I wasn’t stressed out about our wedding plans in the least—but that’s just because my husband is a party planning genius. He pulled it together with one arm tied behind his back, and I mostly just sat back in awe and watched him work. It was amazing!

For some, planning a wedding can lead to commitment papers; everything has to, of course, be perfect, and yet it never is. It’s not always easy to let go of all the things that don’t go according to plan in order to enjoy a day that’s been in the works for 8 months. I have two nieces getting married two weeks apart this spring, and I’m living it in real time.

Brides today have a lot of competition when it comes to reserving churches and venues and florists and photographers. I would be very surprised if, these days, the new brides-to-be weren’t on the phone with the wedding planner mere seconds after getting the ring. Sometimes though, no matter how meticulously all the little boxes are checked, the best laid plans go horribly awry. I heard a story about a lady who threw a “picture party” after her 26 Inside Northside

daughter’s wedding because the photographer failed to show up, and they didn’t even realize it until after the ceremony. Everyone wore the same clothes they wore at the wedding, and they had cocktails and took a bunch of photos; not only did they have a good time, they also had an awesome story and, most importantly, no one had a nervous breakdown.

A very good friend of mine (and publisher) had a breathtaking wedding for her daughter at their home; it rained for a solid week before, during and after. The guests, bride and bridal party all wore their favorite rain boots, and it was one of the best parties I’ve ever been to. It’s just a good reminder—when life gives you rain, add a little ice and some good bourbon.

And don’t you love the epic stories about bridezillas? I wish I could get away with that kind of bad behavior; if I threw a hissy fit like some of these girls, my husband and family would just ignore me and chalk it up to menopause or low blood sugar. I once saw a video of a bride (taken by one of her own bridesmaids no less) who, after getting her hair and makeup done, apparently didn’t care for her hair style, so she had a psychotic meltdown and chopped off all her hair with scissors. Her

MONEY DOCTOR

Big Money

W. Mike Stewart AIF, RFC

Mistakes to Avoid…

Q mascara was running down her face and she looked like a homicidal lunatic; meanwhile, her bridesmaids were laughing hysterically. I watched it about 10 times, it never got old.

But enough about the bride; it’s the Mother Of The Bride who r​ eally ​matters.

(I should just pause here and give the Father Of The Bride his due. If you’re reading this, dad, they didn’t take you up on your offer of a down payment on a house if they’ll elope, so thank you for wearing the tuxedo and writing the check, we love you.)

Of course, the bride will be stunning, and everyone will fawn all over her, but it’s the 50-something-year-old mother who deserves the tiara. She’s dealt with her daughter’s meltdowns for 6 months, along with making magic happen on a budget, while juggling everything that could go wrong, and then did - all while trying to lose 10 pounds AND find something suitable to wear. If anyone is entitled to a psychotic meltdown, it’s mom, and she doesn’t get to have one. I have another friend who had her mother-of-the-bride dress custom made in London. It finally arrived just a few short weeks before the wedding, and IT DIDN’T FIT. AT ALL. So she just found another beautiful dress to wear and kept on going, because that’s what the mothers of brides do.

Though I have two daughters, I don’t know if I’ll ever get to shop for a mother-of-the-bride dress. My eldest will probably get married barefoot in a field of daisies with flowers in her hair, and my youngest just might tie the knot at The BuKu Music Experience in a concert t-shirt—crowd surfing at the reception is optional. I could be the mother of the groom one day; he’s into bowling lately, so I guess I can shop for some custom bowling shoes—maybe I’ll get a strike.

Ok, yes, I might be exaggerating, but one thing is true: I’m the last one qualified to offer advice to brides or their parents. All I know is this. As long as there’s a lot of love and an open bar, everyone will remember it as a great occasion.

Just don’t forget to call the photographer.

A

Lori from Slidell asks: What are some of the most damaging financial mistakes you see people make?

Personal finance is mainly common sense. Advice like “don’t spend more than you make; start investing while you’re young;

don’t loan money to friends with the expectation of getting it back,” have been around for generations. Money mistakes that are corrected early enough will have little impact on your wealth going forward, but you should avoid these money mistakes that can really impact your financial future.

• Making financial decisions emotionally. Fear and greed are the two most prominent emotions we humans deal with everyday. Unfortunately, those emotions have no place in investing or money matters.

• Buying more house than you can afford. Yes, your house is where you spend the most time, but having too much house for your budget can snowball your financial picture because expenses like property tax, insurance, and repairs can drain your resources exponentially.

• Not planning for retirement. Unless you die prematurely, you will get old. Your ability to earn usually wains with age and your need for money may grow.

• Living on your credit cards. Credit card interest is like borrowing money from a loan shark. The sky high interest and small minimum payments create a vortex that will suck all your money away.

• Listening to the wrong people for financial advice. Your friend (or coworker) tells you about a great stock that he/she just invested in. Your uncle has a real estate project he would love you to buy into. Most of the time, these tidbits of advice lead to disaster.

You have financial questions? Call or email Mike today.

W. Mike Stewart AIF, RFC • Wealth Management Services 985-809-0530 • wmsgroup@advisormike.com Check out Research Materials and Video Library at: www.advisormike.com May-June 2019 27

by Poki Hampton

28

Home

KRISTY AND THOMAS CHERRY spent a year with architect John Chrestia of Chrestia, Staub and Pierce planning their new home in Natchez Trace. “We knew what we wanted in our forever home,” says Kristy. “While building the house, I saw the bed for the master bedroom in an ad for The French Mix by Jennifer Dicerbo in Inside Northside and was certain that she was the right interior designer for us. There was something about the bed that encapsulated the look I wanted for the whole house—not traditional, but transitional with a contemporary edge.”

Entering the home you are immediately drawn to the outdoor courtyard. “The courtyard is one thing we knew we wanted,” says Kristy. “It is so tranquil to sit out there on a warm afternoon.” The two-tier wall fountain has a grey and blue patterned cement tile backdrop. It is the perfect place for overflow entertaining.

Inside Northside

In the foyer, a contemporary painting by a local artist hangs above a French reproduction threedrawer chest that is carved and textured with a honed marble top. A white cowhide sits on the whitewashed French oak floor, which runs throughout the house. The stairway vestibule has a custom built-in bookcase, which Jennifer backed with a blue-grey grass cloth and decorated with art objects and books.

In the living area, the crowning touches are the coffered ceiling and the bold feather motif crystal chandelier, finished in brass. Two exquisite custom sideboards with oversized solid brass handmade fleur pulls flank the fireplace. Contemporary paintings in soft pastels hang over the sideboards, while crystal lamps with textured brass accents and linen shades sit atop the chests. The elegant sofa, upholstered in a fresh Crypton performance fabric with banding decoration on the skirt, holds pillows >>

photo: SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

A

r e v e r o F

May-June 2019 29

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Inside Northside

photos: SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

in geometric embroidered linen, embossed faux croc and channeled Tibetan fur. The glass and solid iron cocktail table in a champagne finish holds books and a marble box. Two French Louis chairs with handapplied, nickel-finished frames and brass nail head trim are upholstered in oyster silk velvet; they rest on the hand-knotted wool and silk rug from Nepal in an azure blue color mixed with soft grey and cream. A round acrylic drink table and plumage pillows on the chairs complete the look.

In this open concept home, the kitchen flows seamlessly into the dining and living areas. The custom cabinets are a simple Shaker style with oversized brushed nickel hardware. White quartz countertops and integrated appliances make for an upscale look, complemented by the backsplash in a glossy grey, polygon-framed ceramic tile. The cabinets and walls, like those throughout the house, are painted in Benjamin Moore’s White Dove, while the large island is Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter.

Recessed lighting and two gold-tone, open-cage pendants give plenty of light to the island. Adding the perfect mix of texture and light in this space are >>

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Inside Northside

photos: SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

stunning premium Lucite counter stools, which have seats covered in a beautiful and durable light grey faux shagreen.

“Jennifer wanted to add a different medium for the counter stools because of the close proximity to the dining chairs in this open room,” says Kristy.

Classic dining chairs, upholstered in a sky blue leopard animal print, surround the custom clean-lined table, finished in a crisp ecru color.

The master bedroom holds the king-size bed with a rich metallic charcoal frame that started Kristy on her quest. Coconut-tone bouclé rayon linen upholstery is complemented by the custom duvet cover and Euro shams in buttery satin; the shams have a Greek key trim. Solid iron nightstands in a brass finish with floating glass tops hold alabaster lamps with brass pulls and silk shades. Oyster silk draperies flow from hand-finished iron rods that are painted

a soft gold. Featured in a prominent place in the room is a beautiful large antique armoire that had been Kristy’s grandmother’s and has been lovingly restored by Kristy’s father. A seating area defined by a silk and wool Nepalese rug in rich saturated tones of grey and cream offers two upholstered swivel-glider chairs in pewter velvet with luxurious alpaca lumbar pillows; the round ottomans have the same pewter velvet

tops and white Tibetan hair sides. “The seating area is one of my favorite spots; it’s where I spend a lot of time,” says Kristy. “I love to curl up in front of the fire with a good book.” A contemporary abstract painting pulls the colors of the bedroom into a calming sanctuary.

“Working with Jennifer was a wonderful experience,” says Kristy. “She was able to take our ideas and really make them come alive in our forever home.”

table of contents

37

Fidelity Bank P.O.W.E.R.

38

Lisa Swords Bliss Clothing + Home

39

Dr. Christie McHughes Crosspoint Veterinary Hospital

40

Jennifer DiCerbo The French Mix by Jennifer DiCerbo Interiors

41

Rebecca Pennington, 51 Ph.D., CFRE Girl Scouts Louisiana East 51

The Greige Home Interiors Design Team 52

Melissa R. Henry St. Tammany Parish 52 Clerk of Court

The Maison Lafitte Team

Joan M. Coffman, FACHE St. Tammany Parish Hospital

Laurie Panzeca SMH Foundation

42 43

44

45

49

Camilla Q. Davis Edward Jones

50

Jennifer Rodriguez, Crystal Cavanaugh, Ambris Northern, Andrea Erwin Potter, Kristi West Geaux Tax Resolution

50

Ellen Bajon EMB Interiors

53

48

Leigh Smith Flattmann, DDS 53 Weimer Family Dentistry

Women of the Northshore Home Builders Association 54

Elizabeth Sconzert

Blue Williams, L.L.P. 54 The Jennifer Rice Team

49

Christine Diggs Christine Diggs Interior Design

46 48

Lizby Eustis KW Commercial Ingrid Rinck Sensible Meals Candra George The OWEL Project

Iris Blundell and Julie Portmann St. Anthony’s Gardens Dr. Lori Summers Summers Spine & Neurosurgery Cindy St. Romain St. Romain Interiors

Women IN Business 2019 Presenting Sponsor Fidelity Bank’s P.O.W.E.R. of Women Event Patrons Palm Village: A Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store Girl Scouts Louisiana East

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The Fidelity Bank Northshore P.O.W.E.R Partners are your local women in business experts.

Fidelity Bank P.O.W.E.R. Fidelity Bank is a full-service community bank that believes in

organizations; P.O.W.E.R. Vision, which is our weekly live Facebook video that

the P.O.W.E.R. of woman in business. The bank’s P.O. W.E.R. program,

promotes a different member each week; and monthly podcasts that allow

which stands for the Potential of Women Entrepreneurs Realized,

the women to share their expertise. Also, all our print advertising features

provides educational resources, networking opportunities and facilitated

our members. P.O.W.E.R. is a great way to connect with other powerful

connections combined with a wide array of financial products exclusively

women, promote your business and support other women in business.”

for entrepreneurial women. Fidelity launched P.O.W.E.R. a little more than

Fidelity Bank P.O.W.E.R hosts monthly meet ups, which take place

a year ago to provide women business owners with tools needed to help

at either a Fidelity bank branch or a business associated with a P.O.W.E.R.

them grow their businesses.

participant. Meet ups allow guests to learn more about their P.O.W.E.R.

Women business owners are one of fastest-growing sectors in

benefits and to collaborate with one another. All guests have the

the economy. “Our mission at Fidelity Bank is to be HERE FOR GOOD;

opportunity to talk about themselves and their business. Select Fidelity

providing opportunities for likeminded women to connect, learn and

Bankers are present at each meet up to answer financial-related questions

grow is just one more way we live our mission,” says P.O.W.E.R Director Liz

and to learn from the group.

Broekman.” Membership in P.O.W.E.R. is offered to all women business

owners who bank with Fidelity Bank. P.O.W.E.R. has more than 450 members who have access to the online members-only directory posted on the custom website fidelitybankpower.com.

“Our members know the importance of making connections with fellow business owners,” says Broekman. “In addition to our P.O.W.E.R. directory, we provide a closed social media group; an event calendar that lists both P.O.W.E.R. events and beneficial events hosted by other local

To learn more about P.O.W.E.R., contact Liz Broekman at 504-739-9284, lizbroekman@bankwithfidelity.com or visit fidelitybankpower.com.

May-June 2019 37

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Lisa Swords

Need a chic update for your wardrobe? Or maybe a fresh look in your home? Owner Lisa Swords of Bliss Clothing + Home can help with both.

Bliss Clothing + Home has been open since 2017. However, Lisa

making women feel great about themselves and love to help my clients find the perfect outfit,” she says. “I also enjoy helping them jump outside the box to try something they may not have tried on their own.”

has a long history in retail. After graduating from college, she joined

Jumping outside of the box can also happen in the Home

the family business. She says, “My family has been in retail as long

counterpart of Bliss. “The expansion has been so fun. We have home

as I can remember. We owned Strawberry Patch in Mandeville, which

furnishings including furniture, slipcovered sofas and chairs, linens,

opened in 1981, and Town & Country Bridal, which we sold in 2016.”

mirrors, custom draperies, local art by Louisiana and Mississippi artists

When a newly constructed space opened on Highway 22 in Mandeville, Lisa leaped at the opportunity to begin an exciting retail

and even custom-ordered outdoor furniture.”

Among the beautiful home furnishings, there are also gifts for the

venture—Bliss Clothing + Home. “It has been wonderful being back in a

home and special occasions. In addition to the Bliss Home’s offerings,

retail setting meeting new faces and hugging old ones. I’m thoroughly

Lisa and her experienced staff can help create a bridal registry for soon-

enjoying the ladies clothing industry again and also our home section,

to-be newlyweds, as well as provide interior design work to clients who

which opened in July of 2018.”

need a little help and expertise.

Bliss Clothing carries ladies casual and evening wear, including

Thrilled with Bliss Clothing + Home’s success so far, Lisa says:

cocktail dresses, day dresses, denim, tops and pants. An array of

“We are meeting so many new people who come in to shop with us

shoes and sandals, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, clutches and bags

in our home section and end up finding the perfect dress in clothing.

showcases the large selection of accessories. Prepared for spring and

We’re blessed to help clients find what they need for themselves, their

summer, Lisa says: “The shop is ready for the warm weather and your

home and gifts.”

next vacation. The colors of spring are so beautiful this year! From

pastels to brights, we have lots of dresses and tops to choose from, as well as many on-trend styles like flare jeans, denim shorts and adorable solid and print thin leather belts for an added touch.”

While Lisa enjoys offering an elegant wardrobe of options for her clients, it’s the personal relationship that she loves most. “I adore 38

Inside Northside

Bliss Clothing + Home is located at 4450 Hwy. 22 in Mandeville. 985-778-2252.

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While veterinary assistance often comes in the form of treating illnesses and injuries, her practice offers much more. Services at Crosspoint include but are not limited to grooming, bathing, boarding, vaccinations, surgery, dental cleanings and emergency and routine care.

“A good veterinarian must be a good listener, trust the client and listen to what they’re telling you. They’ll know their pet better than you do,” she says. “Maybe there’s nothing that shows up on the physical exam, so we have to dig deeper, and you have to be the animal advocate.”

When should you take a pet in for medical intervention? “The time is right if a pet is acting differently for any reason—like coughing or vomiting,” says Dr. McHughes. “If they’re not following their routine,

Dr. Christie McHughes When talking about caring for animals, Dr. Christie McHughes’ enthusiasm is obvious. Her passion for animals began in her childhood

something is wrong. But it’s not enough to seek medical attention only when your pet is sick.” Having six-month checkups for your dog or cat, feeding them proper diets and keeping up with their vaccines and routine bloodwork are important measures.

Crosspoint offers wellness programs, as well as the latest in

on a farm where her family had to do much of the animals’ veterinary care

diagnostic equipment. Among services available are dental care and

themselves. She says, “I was their caretaker, and I loved that.”

radiology, in-house bloodwork, alternative medicine and therapeutic laser

Her passion for animals continued into her career years later. Dr.

therapy—a painless, noninvasive technique that promotes increased blood

McHughes graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University in biology

flow to the affected area. “This might be used for healing wounds, chronic

before attending Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine.

ear infections or anything causing inflammation,” she adds.

Her concentration was mixed-animal veterinary care, including small

Striving to provide comprehensive health care for pets, Dr.

animals and equine. Following graduation in 2004, she began practicing

McHughes stresses the importance of disease prevention and of

small-animal care in St. Tammany Parish before opening Crosspoint

educating their owners. “Vaccinating is something we’re always studying.

Veterinary Hospital in September 2015.

Animals have different immune systems from ours, and they stick their

Dr. McHughes’ love of comprehensive pet healthcare has led to the hospital’s accreditation by the American Animal Hospital Association, a distinction shared with only about 12 percent of clinics in the United

noses where they shouldn’t. Scientists have proven our animals are living longer because of proper vaccinating protocols specific to each pet.”

“I have patients coming in that are 18 and 20 years old,” Dr.

States and Canada. Accreditation requires adherence to over 900 quality

McHughes smiles. “And I believe that’s because of very good, preventative

standards in everything from pain management and patient care to team

medicine.”

training and medical recordkeeping.

“We have fear-free certified professionals in the clinic to cause the least amount of stress when visiting,” Dr. McHughes says. “We use different tactics and approaches to make the pet and owner’s veterinary experience a better one.” With a staff of 13, including an associate veterinarian, Dr. McHughes is proud of the standards they maintain. She also serves on the board of the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association as a member at large and is the immediate past president for 2019-2020.

Crosspoint Veterinary Hospital is located at 70323 LA-1077 in Covington.

888-1566. crosspointveterinaryhospital.com.

May-June 2019 39

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and tell them I wouldn’t do that. I’m a perfectionist and want to make it the best it can be.” On the other hand, she says, “When clients have a special piece they absolutely want to include, I say, if you love it, it works.

“It helps immensely that we have a retail design showroom where clients can have their imagination stimulated as they see furnishings and accessories up close, touch fabrics or sit on a chair or couch to get a feel for what they like,” says Jennifer. “We can also take pieces to clients’ homes to show them in their space.”

The showroom is a 4,000-square-foot house on Lee Lane in downtown Covington. Charming and bathed in comfortable elegance, the two-story building contains an array of furnishings, window treatments, lighting, accessories, hand-knotted rugs from Nepal and original art by the Northshore or Greater New Orleans area artists. The second floor holds an intriguing hall of mirrors.

“We’re not an ordinary store,” says Jennifer. Neither, apparently, is the customer service she and her staff offer. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to make clients’ experiences amazing.”

Jennifer attributes the success of The French Mix to her partnership with her husband, Thom

Jennifer DiCerbo If what studies show is true—that beauty in our surroundings can positively affect our moods—then you could say Jennifer DiCerbo’s The French Mix is a mood-changing business.

With a wealth of expertise in the various aspects of design, style, furnishings and materials at her

DiCerbo, who handles business operations; to her love for her work; and to her accessibility to her clients. She says, “Everything we deal with is something that can make a space beautiful. It affects the feel of the home and clients’ day-to-day

command, Jennifer is a talented professional who pays close attention to detail. She pays even more

lives. People should feel happy and love to come

attention to her clients and their wishes, in order to accomplish her goal of creating an environment that

home to everything they’ve worked hard for. I

expresses who they are. She takes the time to get to know them, which calls for another kind of talent—

want them to love it.”

the ability to listen.

“It’s also about asking the right questions,” says Jennifer. “My first question is ‘How do you want your space to feel?’” Whether comfortable, welcoming, relaxing or refined, “It’s not always what I expect.”

She questions her clients about their lifestyle, how they entertain and about their children, grandchildren or pets. “This gives me the insight to be able to design the space to be, for example, kid friendly or pet friendly.”

Jennifer and the design team of her full-service, mid-to-high-end interior design company work within the client’s budget. When clients don’t know their style they want or can describe, Jennifer helps

The French Mix by Jennifer DiCerbo Interiors

them to create one, consulting various photo resources and listening for what they like and don’t like.

is located at 228 Lee Lane in Covington.

She also gently guides clients whose choices include pieces that she knows won’t work. “I’m very honest

985-809-3152. frenchmixinteriors.com.

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In her current role, Dr. Pennington sees the need for a Chief Development Officer to assist in generating additional funds at GSLE. She says: “A lot of people ask about the cookie program revenue. After the baker is paid, the revenue stays local to maintain the three camp properties and train and recruit volunteers, among other necessities.

While the cookie program is successful, we cannot solely rely on its funding. A fundraiser professional is an investment that will be beneficial to us.”

Dr. Pennington earned a Bachelor’s in Communication Arts from

Rebecca Pennington, Ph.D., CFRE

Growing up in Baton Rouge, Dr. Rebecca Pennington loved being a

Nicholls State University, a Master of Journalism from Louisiana State University and a Doctor of Philosophy in Mass Communication with a concentration in Public Relations and minor in Higher Education

Girl Scout. “I still have my Brownie and Girl Scout handbooks and patches

Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi. She worked

from camp,” she reflects. “When I saw the CEO position available, I could

in higher education for more than 22 years, managing capital campaigns

not pass it up. I love this organization and what it gives to young girls.”

for Nicholls State University, Southeastern Louisiana University and

Since becoming the Girl Scouts Louisiana East CEO in December

Nunez Community College, as well as implementing and coordinating

2018, Dr. Pennington has been listening and learning from the staff,

institutional and athletic brand images for Nicholls State. She has

volunteers and girls. She says, “It has been great learning more about our

taught master’s level public relations classes as an adjunct professor at

organization and the 23 parishes we serve.

Southeastern and mass communications classes as an associate professor

“Every single day has been different! Between our headquarters in

at Nicholls State. She holds the designation of Certified Fund Raising

New Orleans and our regional office in Baton Rouge, I spend my days out

Executive (CFRE) and has also served on numerous not-for-profit boards

and about meeting our troop leaders, donors and supporters. Of course,

of directors. When not furthering the Girl Scouts’ mission, Dr. Pennington

I have also made a trip to Camp Marydale to see the horses—one of my

enjoys cooking and eating, fishing, camping and hiking with her family.

fondest memories of being a Girl Scout,” she smiles.

Prior to joining GSLE, Dr. Pennington served as the Senior Director

“As a woman, I think it’s still a little more difficult for women in leadership roles,” she adds. “To be able to lead an organization that

of Walk MS for the South Central Region of the National Multiple

solely focuses on girls and building a pipeline of future female leaders

Sclerosis Society, where she also served as Vice President of Walk

is very rewarding.”

MS and Emerging Events and Vice-President of Development for its

Louisiana office. She has a consistent record of increasing revenue while serving in senior fundraising positions, with extensive experience in all areas of fundraising and public relations, particularly capital campaigns, the cultivation and solicitation of major gifts, annual and planned giving and brand management.

To volunteer, give or learn more, visit gsle.org.

May-June 2019 41

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B U S I N E S S exquisite accessory and fabric selections for her clients. She says, “The extensive collection of fabrics and finishes available allows us to help you create your vision.”

As a Registered Designer, Kathleen Hall McCullough has been building a rapport with clients for 18 years. She says, “Installation day is of course my favorite part of the process. I love seeing it all come together. But the time I spend with my clients selecting finishes, paint, window treatments, custom furniture fabrics and lighting is truly exciting. I always tell them to have fun and enjoy the process!”

Designer Micháel Burns enjoys gathering her clients’ input to start a project. “People often know what they like and don’t like, but need the expertise and vision to pull the final look together,” says Micháel. “I like to see their inspiration, learn their wants and needs, and then interpret their ideas into a design plan. Whether beginning with one special piece or a blank canvas, we can assist with the process from start to finish. We provide the most comprehensive approach to reflect your personal taste and personality within your surroundings.”

Last year, Greige Home Interiors had the privilege of staging the Northshore Home Builders Association Raising the Roof for Charity Home, which benefits local charities of the community. The staff enjoyed selecting the perfect pieces to stage the stunning home, from luxury home furnishings

From top: Kathleen Hall McCullough,

to fine art by artists of the Southeast region.

Corrinn Fisher and Micháel Burns.

The Greige Home Interiors Design Team The showroom at Greige Home Interiors

When stepping into the showroom, you’re

One satisfied Greige client says: “I took advantage of their services to help me design my master bedroom. I love the way it came out and get so many compliments. I could not be happier

is not your typical home accents and furniture

greeted by friendly faces that are ready to help

and would recommend them for your design

store, it’s a source of inspiration. From custom

you design all of your home interior needs—from

needs!” The team provides design services to

furniture to rare antiques, the showroom also

lighting to flooring to window treatments. The

clients on both the north and south shores, as well

features original art from the Greater New Orleans

designers at Greige are here to assist with the

as the Gulf Coast to Baton Rouge.

and Gulf Coast regions. Designer Corrinn Fisher

entire design process. Whether remodeling,

says, “With styled room vignettes, our retail space

freshening up or starting new construction,

enables the client to visualize how something

they have the expertise and 40 years design

may look in their home. We are able to provide

experience.

clients more than just a storyboard. It’s something

Encompassing a unique interpretation of

tangible so that they’re more comfortable moving

color, Corrinn uses her keen sense of design to

forward with projects.”

create custom home furnishings and choose

42

Inside Northside

Greige Home Interiors is located at 2033 N. Hwy. 190, Ste. 10, in Covington. 985-875-7576. greigehome.com.

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Under Melissa’s direction, the Clerk’s office is on sound financial footing— the 2018 fiscal audit offered no changes or recommended actions to the current practices. Improved internal controls provide better transparency and consistency.

Because the Clerk’s office receives no taxpayer funds, all revenue generated is fee for service. Since Melissa cannot control the revenue that comes in, it’s all important that she control what is spent. To control costs, Melissa has made Requests for Proposals for commercial insurance, payroll processing, staffing agencies, credit card processing services, benefits and uniforms which has resulted in savings of thousands of dollars.

While there have been vast improvements in technology, budget and overall cooperation with the 22nd Judicial District Court, Melissa has also sought a better workplace for the 150 on staff offering live motivational speakers and seminars, health fairs, financial planners and access to online professional training.

The Clerk’s staff is invested in making the community a better place through involvement with chambers and other service organizations. Plus, the monthly “dress down day” contributions are donated to an annual charity of their choice. Past

Melissa R. Henry Clerk of Court

Since taking office on July 1, 2016, St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court

recipients have been STARC, James Storehouse and this year’s Truth in Nature.

The St. Tammany Clerk of Court office is a nationally recognized passport acceptance facility, having received an award for exceptional customer service in 2017 from the U.S. State Department—one of only six issued out

Melissa R. Henry says, “My record speaks for itself. I made campaign promises

of 7,000 facilities nationally. Melissa and her staff pride themselves on

and I have kept them all. I have kept faith with the citizens of St. Tammany. I knew

prompt, courteous and efficient service—and the passport office is convenient,

that I could improve things not only for the public, but for our deputy clerks.”

comfortable and kid-friendly!

Melissa was confident that her experience in the Clerk’s office, coupled with her private sector ownership of a mortgage company, made her uniquely

As the Chief Elections Officer for St. Tammany Parish and chair of the Board of Elections Supervisors, Melissa is always striving to engage citizens in the

qualified for the job. The public agreed. She smiles, saying, “It was a natural fit.” elections process. She seeks to recruit Election Commissioners, who set up voting With passion and determination, Melissa has brought 21st century

precincts, assist voters, enforce election laws and help maintain accurate voting

technology to the Clerk’s office. “The technology changes and upgrades we

records. Passionate about fair and accurate elections, Melissa personally trains all

have made in the past couple of years are nothing short of revolutionary. It

1,149 commissioners with live seminars in Covington, Mandeville and Slidell.

is exhilarating.”

The most important technology upgrade is the new case management software “Odyssey,” the first in Louisiana. The new system for the criminal

“We are here to serve the public. I wake up every day thinking about how to improve the Clerk’s office and its ability to provide the much-needed services to the public. I keep my promises.”

and civil divisions works hand-in-hand with other agencies, transmitting time, the judges will access files from the bench, review, e-sign and upload documents into our system automatically. Attorneys will walk out of the courtroom and access court documents—saving time and paper,” says Melissa.

Other technology improvements include e-filing and e-recording for attorneys and the public; back-scanning of court records and documents; redesigned website; new computer systems for the staff; and acceptance of credit card payments.

The St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court office is located at 701 N. Columbia St. in Covington. 985-809-8700. sttammanyclerk.org.

May-June 2019 43

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

data digitally. “Our Minute Clerks will take minutes in the courtroom in real-

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successful partnership with Ochsner Health System to enhance strategic innovation going forward.”

In that vein, Joan is excited about the northshore’s growth and how STPH will support it. She notes: “We’re really examining our footprint to ensure we’re in the most advantageous locations to serve our community as it develops. We want to keep pace with the population just ahead of the curve, expanding to meet our patients’ growing needs.

“Right now, we are underway in Phase II of our strategic growth plan that broke ground in November of last year. The phase includes the development of a four-story patient care expansion on the south end of our building. Ultimately, this will be the expansion project that completes our long-term goal of providing all private rooms for patient privacy.”

Joan M. Coffman, FACHE Joan Coffman’s career has come full circle. As St. Tammany Parish

In addition to the four-story addition, summer brings the opening of a post-acute services facility in the former heart hospital in Lacombe. “The east and west sides of the parish, partnered with

Hospital President and CEO, she shares: “I trained as a radiologic

Ochsner, have come together to make this happen. We are going to be

technologist at Ochsner Health System in New Orleans, and my very

transitioning our rehab unit and opening a long-term acute care facility

first position was here at St. Tammany Parish Hospital. I never imagined

and skilled nursing unit in that location. The beauty of the location is

that I would come back one day as President and CEO— it is honestly a

that it’s centrally located in the parish and easily accessible. This will

dream come true!”

allow our patients to get the right care in the highest quality post-acute

A Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, Joan came to STPH after serving as President and CEO of HSHS St. Mary’s, a campus of Hospital Sisters Health System, which is a multi-facility

environment, which opens more beds in our current hospital structure.

It’s a real win for the parish.”

Joan is proud of the role STPH plays in the northshore economy.

healthcare system serving Illinois and Wisconsin.When asked about

“If you reflect on our role as a service district hospital and the many

her return to STPH, she says, “It has been fantastic being back—such a

services our medical staff offers locally, we are a part of the very fabric of

warm, hospitable welcome! We have extraordinary, high-performing

this community,” she smiles. “We are a significant economic driver, and

colleagues and a talented medical staff.”

people look to us to lead innovations in healthcare. That to me is a pretty

As she spent the first few months evaluating the organization, Joan

profound responsibility, and one we are proud to live out each day.

quickly learned of STPH’s local, regional and national excellence for quality,

“We have a dedicated culture of caring here at St. Tammany

safety and service. Recognitions and accreditations include a Leapfrog Grade

Parish Hospital, and our exceptional colleagues are really the ones who

A in Patient Safety for six consecutive periods; Healthgrades Outstanding

make a difference in the lives of those we serve.”

Patient Experience recognition every year since 2009; CareChex rank of top 100 hospitals nationally for Overall Hospital, Medical and Surgical Care;

Certified Stroke Center and Accredited Chest Pain Center; Women’s Choice Award for Outstanding Patient Experience for nine consecutive years; and Baby-Friendly Designation.

“Foundationally, we are hardwired in terms of performance,” Joan adds. “I want to continue building on our solid foundation and 44

Inside Northside

St. Tammany Parish Hospital is located at 1202 S. Tyler St. in Covington. To learn more, visit stph.org.

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State University School of Dentistry. She finished first in her 2006 class— often referred to as the Class of Katrina because of its arrival in August of their senior year. “We were scattered throughout the state, but still managed to finish out on schedule!” Since graduating, she has practiced general and family dentistry. Dr. Flattmann is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, American Dental Association, Louisiana Dental Association, Northlake Dental Association and serves on the Louisiana Dental Association Council on Dental Education.

As a general and family dentist, Dr. Flattmann treats patients of all ages from toddlers through adults. “I love seeing the littles! It’s

Leigh Smith Flattmann, DDS

so rewarding for me to be able to have a child experience a favorable

Since 1997, Weimer Family Dentistry has taken pride in creating

visits help determine the child’s future outlook on visiting the dentist,

a comfortable atmosphere that puts patients at ease and makes them feel like part of the family. Furthering Dr. Patrick Weimer’s commitment

dental visit, especially if it’s their first one,” she says. “These early dental and can have a long-term effect, even into adulthood.”

Throughout her 13 years in practice, her goals as a dentist stay

to his patients, he is happy to add Dr. Leigh Smith Flattmann to the

true: “I treat each of my patients just as I would wish to be treated,

practice. He says, “We are excited to have Dr. Flattmann join us here at

with the utmost in kindness, compassion, respect and patience. I strive

Weimer Family Dentistry.”

to provide each of my patients with treatment that well exceeds the

Dr. Flattmann’s love for dentistry and family fit hand in hand. She

standard of care. I believe in thorough and comprehensive examinations

always knew that she wanted to do something in health care, but also

and open communication so as to allow patients to freely and willingly

wanted a profession that would allow flexibility to spend time with her

make informed decisions regarding their dental health and treatments.”

then-future children and family. “Dentistry turned out to be the perfect

As for Dr. Flattmann’s family, she married her high school

fit,” she says. “I have enjoyed being able to help people develop and

sweetheart. Together, they live in Covington with their two children.

maintain healthy smiles, while also being able to enjoy family time.”

“They are growing fast and keep us busy,” she says. “We spend lots of

Born and raised in Covington in a family that owns H.J. Smith’s Sons in downtown Covington, Dr. Flattmann is carrying on her love for local,

time in gyms, on the baseball field and at gymnastics!”

family-oriented roots. She is thrilled to have joined the Weimer Family Dentistry team, saying, “I feel at home here and love the small-town feel.”

She is happy to continue giving people “the confidence to smile.”

She adds: “This could mean helping to maintain a beautiful, healthy smile, or creating a whole new smile. A single tooth transformation, such as repairing a chipped or discolored tooth, or a change that involves multiple teeth, can have a significant effect on a patient’s life. I’m sure we

Weimer Family Dentistry offers a full range of family dental services,

have all seen how sharing a smile can turn a person’s day around!”

including family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, implants, dentures and

Dr. Flattmann received her bachelor’s in biology, graduating

bridges, and even biologic dentistry. Weimer Family Dentistry is located

summa cum laude from Millsaps College, before attending the Louisiana

at 807 Asbury Dr. in Mandeville. 985-727-1800. weimerfamilydentistry.com.

May-June 2019 45

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Women of the Northshore Home Builders Association The merger of the Tangipahoa and St. Tammany Home Builders Association in 2015 resulted in the third-largest HBA in Louisiana. The 750+ members are builders, trade contractors, suppliers, mortgage lenders and realtors. Many are accomplished women in the residential construction industry. They help fulfill the NHBA mission to support legislative, economic and educational initiatives that promote and protect the American dream of homeownership.

The NHBA works closely with the Louisiana Home Builders Association and the National Association of Home Builders. One of the women featured here, Dodie Adams, will serve as LHBA president next year. The groups work together to monitor legislation at local, state, and federal levels to keep housing issues a priority with local regulators and policymakers. Home builders in 2019 are seeing significant value as a result of key NAHB advocacy victories from 2018.

The NHBA is a non-profit organization which employs a professional staff to provide day-to-day management. At this time of year, Executive Officer Amy Ybarzabal and her staff are focused on two of the association’s main undertakings. During the Northshore Parade of Homes on May 11-12 and 18-19, NHBA builders showcase their work in 41 homes, offering visitors the opportunity to see a range of architectural styles, innovative and exciting technology and the latest in decorating and design.

Dodie Adams

Dodie Adams of Integrity Builders, a premier Northshore Home Builder, strives to make customer expectations a top priority, which has proven to be one of their best assets. Dodie is an active member in the construction industry at the local, state and national levels, serves as First Vice President of the LA HBA, and is a member of many community organizations. Integrity Builders 985-626-3479. homesbyintegrity.com.

Peggy Benit

As a second-generation operator, Peggy Benit works alongside her brother, Paul Gement, at Pine Grove Lighting and Electrical Supply offering the largest lighting showroom in the Gulf South. For the best interior and exterior lighting selections for any building budget, Pine Grove stocks fixtures of every variety and style including a large display and stock of gas lanterns, lamps, mirrors, and accessories. Pine Grove 985-893-4003. pine-grove-electric.com.

Boasting over $5 million in donations from the Raising the Roof for Charity Homes, the NHBA stands as one of the largest contributors to local charities in the area. Each year, NHBA members build a home of exceptional quality to benefit deserving charities, which this year are Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West, New Orleans Mission and North Oaks Foundation. The winner will be selected at the June 1 raffle.

To learn more about the Northshore Home Builders Association visit NorthshoreHBA.org or call 985-882-5002.

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Inside Northside

Shanna Cole

Shanna Cole of Integrity Builders offers her expertise in interior and exterior color selections as well as design decisions throughout the building process. She says, “Our focus is to provide the homeowner with important features and quality construction with the latest materials available while striving to adhere to budgets.” Shanna serves on the Board of Directors for the NHBA. Integrity Builders 985-966-1903. homesbyintegrity.com.

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Jessica Cox

Cindy Cusimano

Jessica is a Market Representative in the South Louisiana

Cindy attributes 15 years of success in the building industry

region for Cambria—an industry-leading producer of luxury

to attention to detail and cultivating relationships. As a

natural stone surfaces. Crafted in America and family-

sales professional, she regularly attends appliance and

owned, Cambria offers unmatched superior performance

plumbing training seminars and enjoys helping builders and

backed by first-class service. In her role with Cambria, Jessica

homeowners create the kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor living

is responsible for working with builders, designers, fabricators, and kitchen and bath

spaces of their dreams. Cindy currently serves on both the local and state board of directors for

showrooms on residential projects. Cambria 678-427-8627. CambriaUSA.com.

Home Builders. Southern Bath & Kitchen 985-624-5260. southernbathandkitchen.com.

Crystal Eaves

Jenny Goodrow

Kay-Ray Construction owner Crystal Eaves builds high-quality,

With over 40 years of experience in the loan industry,

turn-key homes on your lot. Choose from 1200 to 2500 sq ft

Jenny Goodrow’s passion, honesty and integrity keeps

plans, or she will gladly bid and build your dream home plan.

her customers happy and returning. Jenny now serves

Crystal manages projects from start to finish, while keeping

third and fourth generations of families she has helped in

overhead low to pass those savings on to you. Homes are

the past. She says, “I can truly say that the love I have for

stacked with standard features that others call upgrades. She has move-in ready homes that are priced to sell. Kay-Ray Construction 985-969-7749. kayrayconstruction.net.

Brandi Lala Heath

my customers is what drives me to stay in this business.” Goldwater Bank 985-3738073. goldwaterbank.com.

Nancy Lee

Brandi Lala Heath, owner of L&H Homes LLC, grew up with

For over 28 years, Nancy Lee has worked alongside her

a family history of building houses and has continued

husband at Ron Lee Homes to build quality custom

carrying on the family tradition. Originally from Hammond,

homes in St. Tammany. Communication, honesty, integrity

Brandi moved to the northshore six years ago to be a part

and professionalism are the fundamentals of their success

of the St. Tammany community. She is a licensed general

in being your “Builder of Choice.” You can view Ron Lee

contractor and interior designer who thrives on being creative and professional while

Homes’ inventory online or let Ron and Nancy custom design and build the home of

building quality homes in the northshore region. L&H Homes 985-974-1187.

your dreams. Ron Lee Homes 985-626-7619. ronleehomes.com.

Carrie Sanders

Ellie Schroder

Purchasing a home is one of life’s milestones. Carrie

Ellie Schroder has had a passion for building since she was a

Sanders has been working with home buyers for over

young girl. After building several personal homes, she began

25 years, and she will assist you in tailoring a loan that

her second career as a residential contractor in 2005. Her

will meet your needs. As the largest volume mortgage

company, Maison de Reve, is committed to quality construction

company in the state, GMFS takes pride in knowing

and customer satisfaction. She adds: “When working on

that you will have the best customer service available. Carrie is currently serving as

houses, I try to focus on building someone’s home, not duplicating a plan. Each house is

Treasurer of the NHBA. GMFS Mortgage 985-231-1648. carriesanders.com.

unique.” Maison de Reve Builders 985-373-7019. maisonderevebuilders.com.

Ann Wise

Amy Ybarzabal

Ann Wise is co-owner of Louisiana Custom Closets along

Since appointment as NHBA Executive Officer

with her husband Don Wise. Since the company’s start

in 2016, Amy has successfully overseen the

in 2003, Ann has overseen the daily operations

750-member organization. “I am honored to be

of the business. She assists in ensuring that their

part of an organization with such a positive impact

work continually goes above and beyond customer

on the quality of life on the northshore. Our

expectations in the realm of closets, pantries and garages. Louisiana Custom Closets 985-807-0810. louisianacustomclosets.com.

members take pride in being trustworthy professionals in the home building industry.” Northshore HBA 985-882-5002. northshorehba.org.

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The Jennifer Rice Team

Whether a small condo in the city or a large estate, Jennifer Rice believes luxury comes at all levels.

Because of Jennifer’s standing as a perennially top agent in the Greater

Elizabeth Sconzert

Mental wellbeing may seem an unlikely focus for an attorney. For Elizabeth Sconzert, however, it is her passion.

Elizabeth has been a partner in the Blue Williams Mandeville office since

New Orleans area and her tireless philanthropic work through local and national organizations, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services selected her as a potential owner in 2018. “I was thrilled and leaped at the opportunity to join the Berkshire Hathaway franchise’s ownership team that equally serves the north- and southshores,” she says. “We have a close association with our

2013 and with the firm since 2009. She practices medical malpractice defense,

New Orleans office to help the many transitioning from New Orleans to the

insurance defense, healthcare law and commercial litigation. Her concern for mental

northshore. We’re able to promote our listings so that people can see them

health and wellbeing fits hand-in-hand with her career. She says, “My dad is a

before they even start looking here!”

physician, and I grew up in a science-minded family. I naturally gravitated toward

The vibrant northshore real estate market and her new position as Owner-

healthcare law.” Elizabeth received both her undergraduate degree in English and

Agent has led Jennifer to expand her team to include licensed realtors Lauren

her juris doctorate from Loyola University and was admitted to the bar in 2005.

Mendheim, Krista Carpenter, Mandy Fraher, Diana Stanley and intern and

In addition to providing counsel for a myriad of legal concerns that

rising agent Emily Elwell. With the addition of agents, the team has ventured

healthcare providers and facilities can face, Elizabeth assists Lakeview Regional

into new areas of real estate. “We are expanding to all areas, price points and

Medical Center with unique behavioral health issues, helping the hospital to

aspects of real estate—our latest addition being commercial real estate and

protect its patients. She also volunteers her legal assistance to underprivileged

approachable investment properties,” Jennifer says.

families with children who have mental illness or disability.

“Every case is different, and there’s always a human element that drives me to do more,” Elizabeth says. She volunteers time to the Safe Haven project

“We’re by no means a traditional real estate team, but our primary goal is to always provide good service to our clients. Our roles change as the need arises.”

Jennifer’s position as Owner-Agent allows her to work with agents

and serves on the NAMI board. This year, she received the Women’s Choice

within the franchise while also specializing in the Berkshire Hathaway

Award from Professional Women of St. Tammany and the Citizen Lawyer Award

Luxury Collection. Jennifer’s expertise on unique northshore properties is an

from the Louisiana State Bar Association.

outgrowth of her own experiences developing the Rice’s Innisfree Farm. Her

Furthering her mental-wellbeing focus, Elizabeth co-owns Bayou Yoga, a Mandeville Power yoga studio, where she inspires the community to “empower your being.” She uses her knowledge of mental health law and involvement

longtime participation in hunter-jumper competition, polo and thoroughbred racing equip her to offer valuable counsel on equestrian estates.

As an international company, Berkshire Hathaway’s technology,

with the Northshore Specialty Courts to introduce yoga to sectors of the

marketing and client-relationship management support is superior in the

community that can most benefit from it.

industry. “The support our agents have through the Berkshire Resource Center

At Blue Williams, Elizabeth’s focus on wellbeing serves her well as a

is truly remarkable,” Jennifer adds. “It’s the best in the business.”

member of Blue Williams’ Diversity and Community Action Community. She says, “I am passionate about women empowering women. As women, we don’t build ourselves up enough—we want to change that, and we will.”

729 East Boston | Covington | 985.966.1321 | jenniferrice.net To learn more about Blue Williams, L.L.P., visit bluewilliams.com.

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Inside Northside

BHHS Preferred Realtors | 1321 Causeway Approach | Mandeville | 985.951.2324

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Christine Diggs It’s all about the details for

designer Christine Diggs. With a background in fine art, Christine enjoyed the transition from creating art to creating livable spaces. “Each project is different, but it’s always the details that customize the design to the client,” she says.

After receiving a Bachelor of Interior Design from Louisiana State University, Christine worked under Mandeville designer Connie Seitz for seven

Camilla Q. Davis Camilla Davis loves helping people, businesses and nonprofits achieve

years on residential and commercial projects, including two Louisiana homes

their goals as their Financial Advisor with Edward Jones. She says, “Different

featured in Southern Home magazine. Connie says, “After seven years, Christine

people are dreaming of different things for their future. It truly varies family

was the logical and most qualified designer to succeed the business at the

by family and entity by entity. I love learning what is most important to each

beginning of 2018.”

client and then using an established process to develop a personalized

Christine adds, “Connie taught me a wealth of knowledge, from antiques and fine fabrics to how to run a successful design firm. We still work together on a large new residential project in Arizona.”

Christine spends her days working with clients on high-end residential

strategy with advice, tools and resources to partner with them to reach their financial goals and stay on track throughout their lifetime.”

Camilla joined Edward Jones (Member SPIC) in 2018 after much research and a 20-year career in corporate management. Through

and commercial projects from Florida to Arizona. “I enjoy how challenging

Edward Jones, Camilla offers estate and trust services, retirement,

design can be—and I love the problem solving and creativity needed to

education, 401k, investments, life insurance, long-term care insurance,

complete a project!” she adds. Christine also designs custom furniture and

annuities and more.

lighting, using a network of local artisans to bring her designs to life.

For an existing room that may need an update or simply a new sofa,

Professionally and personally, Camilla’s life experiences drive her compassionate approach. “Growing up with a mom with multiple sclerosis

Christine likes to see her client’s inspiration and then pull details that tie

and recently losing my sister, I understand the financial needs a family has

it together. “Often, clients have trouble incorporating what they want from

when experiencing disabilities or loss. I feel that my life experiences assist

Pinterest or TV. It’s really fun to help them realize their dream.”

me in helping my clients who are planning for their retirement and caring

If visualizing the finished project proves difficult, Christine can create computer renderings and floor plans. “I’m currently creating a 3D model of

for parents as they grow older.” Furthering her ability, Camilla is active in St. Timothy on the Northshore’s Stephen Ministry.

an 8,000SF new construction project so the clients can see themselves in

In addition to serving her clients, Camilla values connecting with

their future home. It’s great to work with the client and architect from the

people and their passion. She serves as Leadership St. Tammany chairperson

preliminary stages to final touches.”

and has been on the board since 2010. “I enjoy connecting people with

Christine is NCIDQ Certified and is a Louisiana Registered Interior

resources, information and other individuals who share their desire to make

Designer and LEED Green Associate. “I believe it’s important for designers to

our community a better place to live and work,” she says. Camilla is also on

have national and state certifications in order to protect their clients. We’re

the West 30s Redemption Company Board and a member of Habitat for

taught building and fire codes, technical drawing and other skillsets that

Humanity’s W. A. T. C. H., the Women Accepting The Challenge of Housing

ensure the project is done safely and efficiently.”

group. At home in Mandeville, Camilla is the mother of a Mandeville High

senior, an LSU senior and an adorable pup, Daisy.

Visit Christine’s studio by appointment only at 403 N. Columbia St, Ste 11,

Visit Camilla Q. Davis at Edward Jones, 255 West Florida St. in Mandeville.

in Covington. (504) 235-1193. christinediggs.com.

985-674-0888, Camilla.Davis@EdwardJones.com or edwardjones.com.

May-June 2019 49

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Jennifer Rodriguez Crystal Cavanaugh Ambris Northern Andrea Erwin Potter Kristi West

Solving tax problems has always been the focus at Geaux Tax Resolution. Bryon Garrety, Kristi West and Andrea Erwin Potter

B U S I N E S S

Ellen Bajon

Housed in a new location, EMB Interiors is excited to help you plan, design and create your next home project. Whether freshening a space, looking for the perfect sofa or building from the ground up, the new EMB Interiors location has plenty to inspire with two dedicated showrooms—EMB Interiors Fine Home Furnishings and EMB Interiors Build by Design.

Owner Ellen Bajon’s experienced staff works closely with clients and retail

opened Geaux Tax Resolution, LLC in Mandeville, Louisiana,

customers to understand their individual wants, needs and style, whether for

after establishing offices in Baton Rouge and Lafayette. These

one room or an entire home. For final touches and custom furniture, EMB’s

professionals recognized the community’s need for assistance with

Fine Home Furnishings retail space offers carefully selected furniture, artwork

tax d isputes. As the business expanded, Crystal Cavanaugh, Ambris

and accessories. Furnishings can also be custom designed and ordered. “If you

Northern and Jennifer Rodriguez joined the team. This created a

don’t see something on the sales floor that suits your needs, we take special

predominately female business with professional working moms.

care in designing a custom piece,” says Ellen.

Bryon Garrety and Kristi West are both Certified Public

“If it’s a sofa you’re looking for, we go further than furniture stores, asking

Accountants with 53 years of combined experience. Before opening

questions like ‘how are you going to live on that piece from day to day? Is extra

this business, both were employed by the IRS. Andrea Erwin

back support needed?’ These details help us to properly order the sofa and

Potter is an established attorney in Mandeville who has served

customize the perfect fit.”

this community for the past 5 years. Crystal Cavanaugh brings 13

Ellen and her team gather for daily meetings to discuss their client

years of tax preparation experience to the team. Ambris Northern’s

projects, using the talents and strengths of each woman to guarantee a

background includes 10 years in tax with 5 focused on resolution

well-rounded design experience. They can also assist in the design and

work. Jennifer Rodriguez earned a degree in Business Administration

implementation of new construction and home renovations.

with a focus on accounting.

These women help those who owe the State of Louisiana,

With new construction clients, the staff works with all aspects of the project, such as refining plans, recommending sub-contractors and, of course,

Parish of St. Tammany or Internal Revenue Service. The goal is

the aesthetic design of the new home. If clients are interested in renovating,

to negotiate on behalf of the client to resolve the tax dilemma.

the team schedules an in-home consultation. A new layout is designed to

Specifically, the team has settled wage garnishments, back taxes,

maximize use and functionality of the available square footage, and materials

wage levy’s, lien releases and innocent spouse relief.

are hand-selected by the designer and the client through a collaborative effort.

“In our new Build by Design showroom, clients can now get inspired while browsing our large selection of stone, tile, carpet, flooring, hardware and more for all of their custom home design needs,” says Ellen. “From cabinets to fireplace surrounds to flooring options, they can see it all!”

50

Our team is ready to assist with all tax concerns. Contact

Build by Design • Fine Home Furnishings

us at (985) 722-1040. Visit our website at geauxtaxresolution.com.

Visit EMB’s new location at 1685 N. Causeway Blvd in Mandeville, 985-626-1522.

Inside Northside

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The Maison Lafitte Team Celebrating six years in business under the Sinclair family ownership,

B U S I N E S S

Lizby Eustis

For Lizby Eustis, being a woman in business is genetic. She says, “My grandmother owned the Suella dress shop in Covington from the 1960s to

Maison Lafitte’s historic late-1800s building and a team with expertise in

1978. She worked, my mother worked, and I grew up in the retail business. For

the event industry offers the perfect place for timeless events. “With a nod to

me, it has always been about sales.”

tradition, a touch of fun and a good ole glass of champagne, we make magic happen at Maison Lafitte,” says Director of Marketing Sara A. Sinclair.

Helming the team with Sara are other female managers Director of Sales

A Covington native, Lizby graduated from St. Scholastica Academy and Louisiana State University before starting her career in the real estate industry in 1993. “For 12 years, I spent my time as a residential real estate agent, but

Chloe Henderson, Event Manager Angelle Hebert, Catering Manager Stefani

after Katrina, I wanted to make a change,” she says. Using the knowledge

Sollberger and Co-Directors of Event Operations Ashley Knapp and Natasha

and skills she had already built, Lizby transitioned to commercial real estate

McBryde. Each has more than 10 years in the field, all are mothers—and all

in December 2005. Following the completion of her Certified Commercial

work together to create a culture of connectivity.

Investment Management designation in 2009, Lizby was recruited by Keller

“We believe in creating an experience for our clients that allows them to trust our expertise in honoring the roots of what it means to truly entertain in

Williams to direct the commercial division of the Mandeville office.

“I enjoy meeting new people and those people becoming acquaintances

the South,” Sara smiles. “As an all-inclusive venue, we want our clients to know

and friends,” says Lizby. “It’s a lot of fun to be with my coworkers here at Keller

that they have our full attention. From timeline execution to upgraded décor

Williams working together to make real estate happen.”

packages to in-house catering provided by our sister venue, The Lakehouse, we take care of it all so that you can enjoy your event from the start.”

Maison Lafitte gives back to the community by partnering with important

Lizby’s passion for her work is displayed in the numerous awards she has received including a GOLD AWARD in Commercial Real Estate Sales from the Northshore Area Board of Realtors, 2007 Realtor of the Year by the Northshore

local organizations such as the Junior League of Greater Covington, Northshore

Area Board of Realtors and the NABOR Board B.F. Breeding Award.In addition

Humane Society, OWEL Project and the Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany

to her time spent at Keller Williams, Lizby serves on the board of directors for

West. In August 2018, Maison Lafitte hosted the first annual Hammers & Heels

Heritage Bank and the St. Tammany West Habitat for Humanity, at which she

Fashion Show to benefit Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West’s Women

volunteers a lot of her time. Looking ahead, Lizby alongside associate Brent

Build campaign, raising nearly $9,000 in just two hours.

Cordell, are working to form the Cordell Eustis Group in the near future.

“We are honored to be a part of this community and to celebrate any occasion that life may bring your way,” says Sara.

When not building relationships with new clients, Lizby spends time with Randy, her husband of 39 years; their three successful and married children; and six gorgeous grandchildren.

Maison Lafitte is located at 402 Lafitte St. in Mandeville.

Visit Lizby at 1522 West Causeway Approach in Mandeville.

985-778-2045. maison-lafitte.com.

727-7000. lizbyeustis.com.

May-June 2019 51

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Candra George Candra George is a

champion, an advocate, a mentor and a coach. She’s also a storyteller.

Ingrid Rinck

“As a documentary photographer, I

Passionate is the best way

tell the stories of strong women to

to describe Sensible Meals creator

empower girls to be them.”

Ingrid Rinck. After working for over

With a keen photographer’s

20 years in the health and fitness

eye and a camera, Candra George

industries, she embarked on a

began The OWEL Project—Ordinary

new journey as an entrepreneur.

Women, Extraordinary Lives—an all-

Like many women, the impetus for her new direction was family.

When her son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune

volunteer organization focused on educating young women on life skills geared toward personal, professional and emotional growth. She says, “Our mission is

disease, Rinck learned everything she could about nutrition and controlling his

to be the source for role models, mentorship and money—to showcase to girls all

health through food. She altered her family’s diet in keeping with that research

of the opportunities and careers available. We aim to equip them with real-life

and lost weight herself. Her portion-controlled meals led to the creation of

applications and the guidance needed to have a solid foundation in life.”

Sensible Meals, which now employs over 1,200 people locally in Mandeville

OWEL supports young women in ways that middle and high schools

and helps tens of thousands across the country lose weight, regain confidence

often miss. Experts (the OWELs) teach, mentor and coach on topics like career

and reach optimal health.

exploration, study habits, health and wellness, conflict resolution, résumé

Sensible Meals has helped clients face challenges such as diabetes, PCOS

writing, how to interview for a job, how to get internships and money for

and heart disease. Many had tried every diet in the market before Sensible

college, among others. Candra’s motivation for OWEL stemmed from being

Meals gave them the results they were looking for. All diets succeed through

surrounded and impacted by strong, amazing women over the years. She

the same fundamental calorie deficit, but this program provides built-in

also wanted to show her nieces all the options they had—and broaden their

indulgence meals to keep them on track, reaching goals before they quit. “We

perspectives. “I want them—and all girls—to understand that no matter where

focus on moderation, not deprivation,” she states. The program is affordable

they come from, what their childhood looks like, what celebrities, or even their

and the company offers live assistance 12 hours a day.

families, they can accomplish greatness.”

Sensible Meals and Rinck have received numerous awards over the years,

Today, The OWEL Project offers private, one-on-one consultations to high

including Top Meal Prep, Top Weight-loss Company, Inside New Orleans and

school and college students and workshops for girls ages 12-22. The highlight

Inside Northside’s Women IN Business, “Northshore’s Best,” Enterprising Woman

of the workshops are the group discussion panels where community leaders

of the Year, St. Tammany Professional Women’s Woman of the Year, Face of

answer questions submitted by attendees. Parents get resources and attend

Weight Loss and Top Health Food this year alone! Her passion for helping people

classes on communicating with teens. The OWEL Project also has a heart for

is the driving force behind the success of her business. Rinck is a generous

girls aging out of foster care, providing support and resources.

sponsor to many charities with a special focus on juvenile diabetes including

Candra credits much of OWEL’s success to her phenomenal team. “These

funding for research, summer camps and medical supplies. She is also the

women are engineers, educators, therapists, doctors, entrepreneurs, soldiers,

founder of the Leading Ladies League, a charity organization that gathers ladies

artists, even a political oceanographer and a submarine designer! They have

for festive themed lunches to raise funds for local women in need.

experience overcoming poverty, addiction, abuse and disease and include

Because of Rinck’s leadership, business savvy and philanthropic spirit, Sensible Meals continues to thrive—keeping customers and our local economy healthy.

caretakers, cancer survivors and single moms. They are world changers.”

Changing the world for girls, one at a time.

Find out more at EatSensibleMeals.com @sensiblemeals and @ingridrinck 52

Inside Northside

For more information, visit theowelproject.com.

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Laurie Panzeca

The SMH Foundation is changing the lives of community members and helping Slidell Memorial Hospital to save lives. “Our only purpose is to support the mission of Slidell Memorial Hospital, which is to improve the quality of life in our community,” says SMH Foundation Executive Director Laurie Panzeca. “We’re here to make sure patients have what they need.”

Since July 2012, Laurie has been furthering that mission. However, her

Iris Blundell and Julie Portmann

Managing Director Iris Blundell and Marketing and Sales Director Julie

Portmann are two faces that have been with St. Anthony’s Gardens since the community opened in 2016. Iris and Julie both share the vision of the

passion for helping others began much earlier. She says, “As a child, I always

Archdiocese of New Orleans: to provide a beautiful senior living community

wanted a career that helped people. While I was in college, my mother was

where seniors are thriving and reaching goals they had not thought possible.

diagnosed with breast cancer, and our family found resources through local

When asked about her favorite part of her day, Iris says, “It’s seeing the

nonprofit organizations to help her treatment and recovery and also to help us

residents building relationships with one another and staff and caring for one

as caregivers. We were the beneficiaries of someone else’s generosity. Those

another. Being part of this senior living ministry and touching lives on a daily

organizations were able to provide services because someone cared enough to

basis has been one of the most truly joyous times of my life. I look forward every

donate to them.” Because of Laurie’s personal experience, the health-related

day to watching my ‘extended family’ enjoying life in this new and fun chapter!”

fundraising industry was a natural fit.

Through annual fundraisers and direct donations, SMH Foundation

Working in senior living most of her career, Julie expresses her joy in assisting families when the time arises for a transition to a supported environment. Changes

depends on the community’s generosity to raise funds for life-saving

are often difficult, but Julie says her favorite part is sharing the many gifts and

equipment, community education and health screenings. “Being able to work

talents of St. Anthony’s Gardens with families and providing solutions for their loved

alongside our community members to connect them to the mission of the

ones. “St. Anthony’s Gardens offers more than an Independent Living, Assisted

foundation and the hospital has been very rewarding,” she smiles. “I’m grateful

Living and Memory Care Community. We offer a supported environment with as

that I have the ability to raise funds that will make a difference in the treatment

much or as little help as our residents would like. And, families have the assurance

and recovery of so many patients.” The foundation funds much-needed

that St. Anthony’s Gardens has the most compassionate and caring staff to assist

technology such as neonatal specialty beds, patient support programs and

their loved ones as needed, every day,” says Julie.

transportation funding, and health education programs, including the Fit as a

Julie and Iris love sharing St. Anthony’s Gardens with the local

Firefighter camp that will be held on June 3-7 for local children ages 8-12.

community. “We have hosted many organizations and meetings and love

When not serving as Executive Director, Laurie is involved further in the

giving back to our community by sharing a leading role in the Alzheimer’s

community. She is a member and past president of the Rotary Club of Slidell

Association and hosting support groups for memory care and Parkinson’s,”

Northshore, a member of the North Shore Wealth and Business Planning

Julie says. “We are always looking at new ways to share St. Anthony’s Gardens

Professionals and is a graduate of Leadership St. Tammany and Leadership

with the surrounding area.”

Northshore. A wife and mother of three, Laurie and her family are parishioners at Our Lady of the Lake Church and are active members of the Prayer Shawl Ministry.

Iris adds, “St. Anthony’s Gardens’ strength is our strong teamwork, and at the Gardens, we never stop enjoying life!”

SMH Foundation is located at 1111 Gause Blvd in Slidell.

St. Anthony’s Gardens, A Senior Living Ministry of the Archdiocese of

985-280-8820. smhfdn.org.

New Orleans, is located at 601 Holy Trinity Dr. in Covington. 985-605-5950.

May-June 2019 53

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Dr. Lori Summers Dr. Lori Summers has two passions—injured horses and injured people.

And her work for both is impressive.

Since 1998, Dr. Summers has been in the south Louisiana area. She earned her medical degree from the University of Missouri School of Medicine, completed

Cindy St. Romain

a surgical internship at Northwestern University and a neurological surgery residency at Tulane University. She then completed a complex spine fellowship

“It’s my love of fabrics and antiques that really made me want to start my

at the University of Florida. “Women make up about 8 percent of the practicing

business,” says Cindy St. Romain. For over 20 years, Cindy has offered antiques,

neurosurgeons in the US, and I am proud to be one of them,” she states.

fabrics and more from her full-service design studio and shop, St. Romain

As a board-certified neurosurgeon with interest in trauma and spine surgery, Dr. Summers also works with the North Oaks Level II Trauma Center,

Interiors.

Early in Cindy’s career, she apprenticed under a designer developing

Cypress Pointe Surgical Hospital and Lakeview Regional Medical Center. She

a specialty in draperies. “Fabrics have been and are a big part of what I enjoy

belongs to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Congress of

about design. I love using beautiful fabrics of different colors and textures for

Neurological Surgeons, Louisiana State Medical Society, St. Tammany Parish

chairs, pillows and draperies.”

Medical Society, and the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society—the only national medical society in the world.

Following her love of horses, she is active in the rescue of injured or abandoned

Her appreciation for beautiful antiques birthed from Cindy’s time living abroad, which developed her design style of combining elegance with comfort and new with old. “I like to create an eclectic mix of vintage and antiques with

horses throughout the area. “I have five rescues of my own and love working with

new pieces. It’s an interesting combination that gives warmth and importance

the many horse rescue efforts within our community,” she adds. While caring for her

to a room,” she says.

own horses, she is a supporter of the Louisiana Horse Rescue Association, Southern Eventing and Dressage Association and New Orleans Polo Club.

Ever-serving those around her, Dr. Summers is a Commander in the United States Navy Reserve and earned the Army Achievement award during her deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring

Cindy enjoys traveling to Europe to locate the finest antiques for her clients and is committed to providing unique pieces at affordable prices. Her design services range from new construction and renovation to any need a client may have. She adds, “I love helping people make their home beautiful.”

Slated for early June, Cindy is excited to be opening St. John Gallery

Freedom. She has volunteered in medical missions in West Africa and South

next door. “Throughout my 20 years, I have sold art, but now will have it all in

America.

one place. St. John will have antique, traditional and contemporary art from Southern artists and others that will complement the offerings of St. Romain Interiors.”

When not at the shop, Cindy can be found on the tennis court or enjoying time with her husband and three children.

Summers Spine & Neurosurgery is located at

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1200 Derek Dr., Ste 400, in Hammond, and 648 Crestwood Dr.,

St. Romain Interiors and soon-to-be St. John Gallery are located at

in Covington. 985-419-7767. summersneurosurgery.com.

207-209 St. John St. in Madisonville. 845-7411. stromaininteriors.com.

Inside Northside

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Inside Northside

Flourishes 1

2

3

4

5 6

1. Driftwood interior lamp with round cream shade.

7

Pine Grove Lighting and Electrical Supply, Mandeville, 893-4003. 2. Currey & Company Elegance Chandelier, 34� h x 29� dia. Southland Plumbing, Mandeville, 893-8883. 3. Honeycomb Mosaic in Statuary Mist Marble, complemented by etched Greek key border in Thassos Marble. Stone Source, Covington, 892-0695. 4. Sunnylife Beach 9

Sounds portable speaker with tuner, volume dial and bass control, 3.5mm jack for portable media player,

8

weatherproof speaker box, $50. Olive Patch, Covington, 327-5772. 5. Hickory Chair Suzanne Kasler Campaign Desk made to order. Greige Interiors, Covington, 875-7576.

6. Creamy blister glazed bowl with teal drip center, $205. EMB Interiors, Mandeville, 626-1522. 7. Southern Hotel Vignettes slate tile coasters, $12 each. Southern Hotel, Covington, 400-5657. 8. Churchill Copper Lantern in gas or electric; prices start at $538; as shown with exclusive Farm House Hooks, $695. Available in 3 sizes with fast shipping. Gulf Coast Lanterns, Covington, 800-910-3275 or gulfcoastlanterns.com. 9. Complete picnic basket for two, $125. Niche Modern Home, Mandeville, 624-4045. 10. 19th Century French altar 10

candle sticks, starting at $525. St. Romain Interiors, Madisonville, 845-7411.

May-June 2019 57

Flourishes 2 1

3

1. Square Hanging Lantern, architectural neutral design. $325$425. Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights, Mandeville, 249-6040.

2. Original painting by Becky Fos. Gallery B Fos, New Orleans, 504-444-2967. 3. Four-piece swing set includes swing, tote, back printed pillow and bottom stripe pillow. Assorted designs available, $159. Outdoor Living Center, Covington, 893-8008. 4. My Saint My Hero bracelet and necklaces, $38.50 to $60. Auraluz, Metairie, 504-8883313 or shopauraluz.com. 5. Seasonal arrangements starting at $65. Florist of 4

Covington, 892-7701. 6. Dream White Rose

5

luxury porcelain diffuser, $78. mĂŠlange by kp, Mandeville, 8077652. 7. Mr. & Mrs. Marble serving board set with metal spreader, $39. DeCoeur Gifts & Home Accessories, 809-3244.

6

7

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Inside Northside

May-June 2019 59

INside Look

1 2

3

4

5 6

1. Colorful cotton Japanese-style blouse, $114. cdn clothing, Covington, 327-7300. 2. Linen makeup bag with zipper and gold glitter embossed XOXO, $146. Bliss Clothing + Home, Mandeville, 778-2252. 3. Jane Leslie sterling silver and rose gold plated pink opal and enamel fan earrings, $250. Jane Leslie sterling silver and rose gold plated pink opal and enamel fan pendant necklace, $350. Lee Michaels, Metairie, 504-8327

0000. 4. Blue Topaz My Favorite Gem Ronaldo Bracelet, $269. DeLuca’s Fine Jewelry & Gifts, Covington, 8

892-2317. 5. Coolibar Sun protection guaranteed UPF 50+ rated, $49.50. The Annex, Mandeville, 727-7701. 6. Rachel Riley smocked-back, onepiece swim suit with ruffled trim. Kiki & Lolli, Covington, 900-2410. 7. Off-the-shoulder, high-low scuba fabric dress, $86. Columbia Street Mercantile, Covington, 809-1789 or 809-1690. 8. Snakeskin flatform sandals, $49.

ShoefflĂŠ, Covington, 898-6465.

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Inside Northside

May-June 2019 61

62

Inside Northside

INside Look

4

3

1 2

6 5

7

1. Rectangular woven cross body bag with woven handles, $45. The Villa, Mandeville, 626-9797. 2. Short sleeve sashimi print casual shirt, $135. H.W. Rosenblum, Mandeville, 727-9955. 3. Handmade cocoon cover-up with tassels, $136. Ballin’s LTD. Covington, 892-0025.

4. Elan top with deep V-neck, $72, and matching

8

smock pants, $69. The Lifestyle store at Franco’s, Mandeville, 792-0270. 5. Coral polo shirt under a Tailored Fit 1905 sportcoat in tan Brrr Comfort fabric that offers cooling and airflow. Jos. A. Bank, Mandeville, 624-4067; Metairie, 504-620-2265;

9

New Orleans, 504-528-9491. 6. Sponge coral necklace with antique copper accents, $129.

PoKi - Dynamic Jewelry, Covington, 373-6488.

7. Open-toe mule with color-blocked embroidery and lucite detail, $248. Ballin’s LTD, Covington, 892-0025.

8. Jude Frances Spring 2019 Bracelet Stack, starting at $1,790 in 18K gold. Boudreaux’s Jewelers, Mandeville, 6261666. 9. Marla Romper in Sun Drenched, $178. Palm Village, a Lilly Pulitzer signature store, Mandeville, 778-2547.

May-June 2019 63

e l y Ga n o s n e B

IT’S BEEN A LITTLE OVER A YEAR since the beloved Tom Benson passed away at the age of 90, leaving control of both his NFL team, the Saints, and his NBA team, the Pelicans, to his wife of 14 years, Gayle Marie Benson—or GMB, as she’s known affectionately to those close to her within the executive ranks of the organizations.

This past year for the now solitary owner has been anything but dull. Drew Brees scored an all-time NFL passing record, Michael Thomas hit an all-time receiving record for the Saints, the acrobatic Alvin Kamara became just the second player in NFL history to total 1,500 rushing yards and 1,500 receiving yards in his first two seasons in the league, and kicker Wil Lutz set a franchise record for consecutive field goals, just for starters. And, of course, they roared through other contenders to make it to the championship game leading to the Super Bowl. But who can forget the game-changing no-call in that championship match against the Rams, which still has coaches and players alike calling for rule changes regarding reviews and challenges? And that is just a tiny snapshot of her NFL team over the last year.

The Pelicans have had their fair share of drama

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Inside Northside

as well, most notably when their finest player and one of the best in the league, Anthony Davis, asked the powers-that-be in February to trade him. The Pelicans couldn’t put together a trade deal that was beneficial for them, leaving “The Brow” with nowhere to land immediately when the trade deadline expired.

He was limited roughly to 20 minutes per game until the season was over. Benson says they will now trade him when they are ready, and when it makes sense for the team. Subsequent to that tumult, Gayle Benson had the unenviable job of firing Pelicans’ GM Dell Demps, and later hiring a new Executive Vice President for the Pelicans in a move that many believe will redefine the entire franchise going forward.

So, just who is Gayle Marie LaJaunie Benson, the first woman to be in the distinct position as a majority shareholder in both an NFL and NBA franchise? She’s a local girl who grew up in Old Algiers.

“This was before it was trendy,” explained Benson from inside the former interior decorator’s immaculately tailored office at Saints Camp. “It was a working-class section of New Orleans back then. My mother was very religious and put me in Catholic schools for elementary and middle school, but when I got to be around 14 >>

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

by Leslie Cardé

May-June 2019 65

got pregnant and then took care of a husband and children led Benson to fulfill the goals that had been inculcated in her since she was very young.

But marrying a man down the street whom she had known for years did not have a fairy tale ending. Her husband, from an Italian family, had an expectation of “a house full of kids,” so Benson’s failure to get pregnant had rocky repercussions. The marriage of one year ended, was later annulled, and Benson was back living with her parents.

“I was 20 by this time,” Benson recalled, “and I went to work as a secretary. Then later, I took a job in a dental office, but I needed to make more money, so I found a jewelry company based out of New York that needed representatives. I reported to my bosses in Dallas but

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Inside Northside

had trips in and out of New York, eventually becoming a regional director with 30 girls working for me.”

Living at home and saving her money, her impetus for the next marriage was a bit different.

At 29, she met a little girl and boy who were in a difficult situation. With an absent mother, they were being raised by their father, who worked for former DA Harry Connick.

“I was waiting for God to show me what to do with my life. I figured He hadn’t sent me children, but I knew I could help these kids,” recounted Benson.

“I was getting closer to their father, and I figured the children needed a more stable home life. Against advice from those around me, and some looming red flags, we got married—not in the church, but on a barge in South Pass, Louisiana. After the wedding, he got in his boat and went fishing.”

It was a prophetic sign of the disharmony to come, but Benson hung in there for the children. Ten years after the “I Do’s,” she filed for divorce, vowing at the age of 39 she would never marry again. Already in business for herself at this point, heading up her own interior design firm while renovating and flipping properties as well, Benson’s entrepreneurial spirit had served her well. Meeting Tom Benson 18 years later was unexpected and totally serendipitous.

“I had a number of renovation projects going on, and I had purchased the old Kung’s Dynasty in the 1900 block of St. Charles Avenue, where I had a trailer set up on the property so I could oversee everything,” she recounted. “I would go to Mass early every morning at St. Louis Cathedral, and on this particular morning, I was the reader. After Mass, the Monsignor asked me if I had noticed Tom Benson in the congregation. I hadn’t.

But the church had been soliciting donations to repair the roof, and the Monsignor thought that perhaps I could get him to make a donation to the cathedral, so he introduced us.”

Closely on the heels of that meeting, Tom invited her to an Arena Football game, and a dinner to follow, which she described as feeling like an interview, while the getting-to-know-you evening had still not elicited any donation to the church. Meanwhile, Mr. Benson seemed eager to impress her with his team and other worldly goods—and then informed her he would be

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

(when you think you know everything), I decided I wanted to go to public school. I was at war with my mother over this, but I was strong-willed, and at 15, I landed at Behrman High School.”

To hear Benson tell it, culture shock ensued.

Having been insulated her entire life to this point with strict rules of behavior, witnessing the goings-on at her new school was shocking. “People were in the halls making out and in the bathrooms smoking and cursing, and I was like ‘whoa—what is this?’”

With an abundance of class credits from her previous parochial school, her junior and senior year required only half-day attendance, allowing her to work the other half, a fact she was thrilled about. But soon after graduation, the reality of the ’60s set in, and her family’s credo that good girls got married,

leaving town for a number of weeks.

Upon his return, however, the dinners continued for many months with increased frequency, and Gayle Benson came to know his heart.

“He was ever the gentleman, and completely respectful,” said Benson. “He used to blow me kisses at the end of our dates. When I finally asked one of the priests if he was a nice man, I was told he was an honorary Oblate, an order of priests. I thought, ‘He’s got potential!’ I later learned he often went to Manresa (a Jesuit Retreat Center in Convent, Louisiana), and realized we had our faith in common as well as our love of business.”

Four months later, Tom Benson proposed and requested that the wedding take place on a Saints bye week. After an elaborate party at the New Orleans Museum of Art, the couple was then married in a religious ceremony at The Immaculate Conception Church in San Antonio, Texas. Their honeymoon was in California immediately thereafter, as the Saints had a game there. It was a whirlwind courtship leading to a 14-year marriage—one in which she attended every business meeting, learning the sports business with the same gusto she had previously employed to learn the jewelry business, interior design business and real estate.

“Mr. Benson wanted her to understand most of the aspects of the football operation,” said Mickey Loomis, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Saints. “She was very willing and patient to learn many of the top issues facing our team—the salary cap and rules and various deadlines. I was very impressed with her questions and her understanding of it all. Keep in mind that while Mr. Benson was alive, she attended every owners meeting and >>

May-June 2019 67

every draft meeting here in the building.

So, once she became a sole owner, it was a very seamless transition.”

And, while digesting all of that information, she was simultaneously learning about the banking business, the car business and the various real estate holdings of her husband. Of course, this was before the advent of NBA ownership beginning in 2012, the GMB Racing Stables in 2014 or the more recent acquisition of Dixie Beer.

The Pelicans acquisition came about in what can best be characterized as a collision of chance and a checkbook.

Following the exit of the New Orleans Jazz to Utah in 1979, the Crescent City was without an NBA franchise until 2002, when then-owner of the Charlotte Hornets George Shinn relocated his franchise to New Orleans. He sold the franchise in 2010 back to the league, and by 2012, the team was in dire straits. For the Benson duo, who seemed to have a propensity and an affinity for turning around fading properties and floundering franchises, à la the 1985 New Orleans Saints, it was a match made in heaven.

“I encouraged Tom to buy the Pelicans,” recalled Gayle Benson. “I was an entrepreneur at heart, and owning a team was fun. Eventually, when the deal was done, the league said they would have taken less, and Tom said he would have paid more. We renamed the team the Pelicans, because Tom owned the rights to that name, which formerly belonged to an old minor league baseball team that played its final game in New Orleans in 1959.”

The name resonated with New Orleanians who were watching real-life pelicans struggling for their very survival off the Gulf Coast in the wake of the

BP oil spill two years earlier, with the slicks of petroleum still present in the water. Turning lemons into lemonade, and getting good PR in the process, the Bensons gave money for coastal restoration and took their Pelican teammates down to the Gulf of Mexico to clean off saturated sea birds. It was a sight!

With the purchase of the Pelicans, the team secured the top pick in the draft. It was used to acquire Anthony Davis, a freshman center at Kentucky who had just led his school to an NCAA championship. A perennial all-star, albeit plagued with injuries, Davis was later joined on court by DeMarcus Cousins in 2017. Even though Cousins tore his Achilles’ tendon and missed the playoffs, the Pelicans still swept the Portland Trailblazers before eventually losing to the juggernaut Golden State Warriors in the conference semifinals; ironically, the injured Cousins became a free agent and was picked up by the Warriors in 2018 for a song. But in February 2019, in a move straight out of the Chris Paul playbook of 2011-2012, Davis asked to be traded. The entire debacle turned into a public spectacle, with disappointed fans—and Davis exiting one particular game halfway through.

“The Anthony Davis situation has been difficult,” Benson told me. “Amidst all of the trade talk, he hurt his shoulder in February and walked off the court midgame with his agent. We didn’t feel the trade deals we were offered meanwhile were in the best interest of the team. The Lakers put together a trade package, but the Pelicans would have gotten a not-sogreat deal. We couldn’t come to terms, and eventually the trade deadline lapsed.

We have had Anthony through the end of the season, so he’s been playing. But, we need to get the best deal for the fans

in terms of draft picks. He’s young and he wants to win, and he doesn’t have the patience to hang on. All athletes live with the danger of getting hurt, and then you have no career. I felt that if we could have continued to recruit and get some great people, we could have a championship team—but it’s going to take some time. I explained to Anthony by way of an analogy to the Saints that we only have one Super Bowl win (and very nearly went to another), but we now have a great team together, and that took many years.”

Now, in the off-season, more teams will be in a position to orchestrate a better trade deal for all parties concerned, as the franchise looks forward. And, perhaps in an effort to infuse new life into a demoralized team and fan base, in mid-February, Benson fired the general manager of the Pelicans, Dell Demps, who had held that position since 2010, pre-dating the Bensons.

Clearly the natives had been restless, as Benson recounted that the front office was receiving three letters a day from the bleacher pundits (my words, not hers) with suggestions as to who the next GM should be. On April 12, all speculation came to an end when it was announced that David Griffin would become the Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations for the New Orleans Pelicans. Griffin was the GM of the Cleveland Cavaliers between 2014 and 2017, when the Cavs went to four straight NBA Finals and won the NBA championship in 2016. Griffin will be to the Pelicans what Mickey Loomis is to the Saints, and of course, Griffin will be navigating the muchballyhooed trade of Anthony Davis, unless, of course, he can talk him into staying. As we went to press, Griffin had held a news conference stating he believed Anthony Davis was open to staying in New Orleans, after speaking with Davis’ agent, Rich Paul. At this point, it’s all conjecture.

With the courtside drama over at the Pelicans now that the season has ended, and with new management in place on the basketball side of the equation, I asked Mrs. Benson to look in her rear-view mirror and comment on unarguably the worst no-call in NFL history at this year’s championship game. Who can forget when seven separate referees seemed blind not only to a pass interference penalty but to a helmet-to-helmet call as well, defying logic and sending the Who Dat Nation into a tailspin?

“Of course, I was disappointed,” Benson recalled, “and we had planned on addressing this at the NFL’s annual meeting that took place at the end of March. We certainly wanted to be able to challenge calls like this in the future. Frankly, I think Roger (NFL Commissioner Goodell) was embarrassed. The >>

May-June 2019 69

Owner Gayle Benson meets with Coach Sean Payton and Executive V.P. and General Manager of the Saints, Mickey Loomis.

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“Certainly I believed a lot of people supported change,” said Coach Payton. “But there needed to be a clear methodology in place before implementing any alteration to how the league utilizes replay. Look, the fans are seeing everything now in real time. The fans are getting access to great shots on the television screen. So, how do we improve those opportunities for the officials? We had discussed an eighth official up in the box who would have access to the same kind of video a fan would have—but as an official.

We’ve discussed replay, and we had discussed all of those other topics at the preliminary meeting.”

When it was actually put to a vote of the owners on March 26 in Phoenix, few expected to get the required 24 of the 32 owners to vote in favor of

Inside Northside

changing the rules. But the extraordinary happened when 31 of the 32 owners voted for the new challenges. The lone dissenting vote was from the Cincinnati Bengals.

“Credit Sean (Payton) for his work within the competition committee and with the rest of the head coaches to get behind presenting a change to ownership,” said Benson. “NFL ownership listened and accepted the change.”

Now, in the upcoming season, a called or uncalled pass interference infraction can be challenged by coaches during the game before the two-minute mark at the end of each half. In the final two minutes, the process will go to booth reviews, just as other reviewable calls have been in the past.

For the detractors of rule changes relative to call reviews, the biggest concern initially seemed to be delaying the game. However, the Canadian Football League has been reviewing pass interference calls since 2014 without any problems.

Stepping back and looking at the overall ownership picture nationally in both football and basketball as it stands in 2019, there are only eight women who have majority shares in NFL teams—and most of those franchises do not have sole ownership, as does Benson. As for the NBA, Gayle Benson and Gail Miller of the Utah Jazz stand alone as female owners. The Los Angeles Lakers are run by multiple family members within the Jerry Buss family trust.

So, does a female perspective have any bearing on decisions to be made regarding the team’s choices? Or is it more about the personal character of those in the front office, regardless of gender, as it pertains to morals and standards? I asked Mrs. Benson about the recent signing of former Chiefs star running back Kareem Hunt to the Cleveland Browns just months after he was released by the Kansas City Chiefs for his involvement in a violent physical altercation with a woman in a Cleveland hotel that was caught in its entirety on security footage.

Considering there were other documented instances of violence in Hunt’s case, could there be justification for re-hiring a player such as this?

“The Saints would not have hired him,” said Benson, without missing a beat. “We have higher standards, and I feel if you hire someone like that,

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

no-call was clearly a mistake, and although we’ll never be able to rectify what happened on the field that day, we wanted to make sure it never happened again—to any team.”

Roger Goodell had called Mrs. Benson personally after the incident and was apologetic, but felt like there wasn’t anything he could do considering the constraints of the rules.

“Look, you have 32 owners who all saw that, who knew it wasn’t right,” said Benson, “but again, based on the rules, there wasn’t much that could have been done. It was over!”

For Coach Sean Payton, a member of the league’s competition committee (one component of the rulemaking body), hope had sprung eternal in the wake of such an egregiously blown call.

you’ve not only created a public relations nightmare, but you’ve completely sent the wrong message. And I’m not alone in that sentiment. Before we draft anyone, Sean (Payton) will get on the phone with them and explain the “rules of the road,” if you will. He’ll ask about their family life and if they can come to work without issues. He’ll ask if they’re drinking or doing drugs. And, in addition to background checks by the organization, he wants them to know we’re all over it.

We have a great group of players on our teams, who give back to the community, unselfishly give of their time at local hospitals and are men of character. That’s the sort of integrity-driven individual we want as part of our family.”

“We certainly place a high priority on bringing the right type of people into our organization, and that will continue to be important to all of us,” echoed Coach Payton.

As far as stylistic differences between Mr. and Mrs. Benson, I posed that question to Saints and Pelicans President Dennis Lauscha, who’s been an integral part of the Bensons’ recent acquisitions as well as overseeing all major decisions within both franchises. He now works with Mrs. Benson on a daily basis.

“There are obvious differences in style, but the core questions, values and beliefs are the same,” believes Lauscha.

“Her questions typically relate to how any decision will impact either team’s having the best product and delivering the greatest value. Her concerns are about what’s best for the fans, the community and other stakeholders.

There’s a lot of attention paid to an investment having multiple bottom lines—not just good financially, but good for others. The Dixie Brewery investment is a good example. Although a great >>

May-June 2019 71

location for Dixie, we’re investing in an area of town that needs attention in both capital investment and employment. So, there are multiple bottom lines. That decision was very important to both Mr. and Mrs. Benson.”

Continuing on with her investment in the city, in April, Gayle Benson, with partners Darryl Berger (co-owner of the Windsor Court and other hotel properties) and Fulcrum Hospitality, purchased the 1,193-room Hyatt Regency Hotel—the third largest hotel in the city.

It’s part of the philosophy that investing in the community with local ownership makes the city a better place.

And with the proximity of the hotel to the Superdome and the Smoothie King Center where the Saints and Pelicans play, the adjacent position to Champions Square and the Benson Tower, the logistics of this deal enhance the entire sports entertainment complex of the upper Poydras Street corridor.

And for the woman who is steeped in faith, her actions reflect a page taken straight out of the Bible—to whom much is given, much will be required.

Whether she’s paying off over 400 holiday layaway orders at Walmart to the tune of $100,000 last Christmas, making a $5 million donation to Jesuit High School, the largest in the school’s history, or on the one-year anniversary of her husband’s passing in March, a $3.5 million donation to Second Harvest Food Bank, many believe it was her giving spirit which propelled her husband into the world of philanthropy—whether it was funding medical research, building a stadium or contributing to the arts and beyond.

To those inside the organizations who know her, it’s her familial style which endears her to everyone. She is

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more than a boss. She’s the godmother to Saints quarterback Drew Brees’ daughter, Rylen, as well as to former special teams hero Steve Gleason’s daughter, Gray.

She has invited Saints players and their families to the Kentucky ranch, home of GMB Racing. The sprawling 600-acre horse farm nestled amidst undulating hills is known for the thoroughbreds it grooms for racing and breeding. And, she’s been known to give up her firstclass seat for the team’s away-games to the team’s players. She is also adored for her personal handwritten notes and cards, sometimes accompanied by press clippings. Coach Sean Payton has a drawerful.

“It’s almost like she’s saying, your mom’s not alive anymore to collect these, but I am,” Payton said. “I think the players, coaches and all of us involved have seen a bright light within her.”

There may be a flip side to generosity in that there will always be those who take advantage of kindness, but her team does its best to keep her insulated from those who might be out to exploit her. One may detect a sense of protectiveness around the club toward Mrs. Benson, but according to Greg Bensel, Senior Vice President of Communications and Broadcasting for the Saints and Pelicans, she’s a savvy businesswoman who is very perceptive of anything that could be considered untoward.

“She is very strong minded in her conviction, so being protective is not really the right term,” said Bensel. “She is much like Mr. Benson in making sure that our values and core beliefs are paramount when we are dealing with any of our constituents. I don’t think anyone can question her integrity, honesty and grace. We got lucky when Mr. Benson married Mrs. Benson.”

May-June 2019 73

Traces

DogHouse Design Fontainebleau Students Print New Paths for the Future

Trey Ryals.

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WHAT DOES IT TAKE to run and operate a small, creative business? Students at Fontainebleau High School now have the opportunity to find out for themselves. Meet the latest branch of the Graphic Arts program, DogHouse Design. The impressive student-operated print shop teaches hands-on skills, shaping young entrepreneurs for a future in the workplace environment.

Reformed math teacher turned Graphic Arts director Trey Ryals envisions a way for students to learn valuable workforce experience while unleashing their creative side. He believes strongly in the value of tangible skills outside of traditional classroom education. “These students are graduating high school with a better understanding of what it means to communicate well, to adapt to change, to solve problems—and the importance of punctuality and attention to detail,” says Ryals.

At DogHouse, the students run their own small business, designing, creating and fulfilling orders for screen-printing. The profits from their creations go directly back into the Graphic Arts program, supplementing the cost of education and keeping the team financially independent. The students are not only trained in Adobe Illustrator but learn the time and customer operational skills it takes to produce a quality product within a deadline. With one pull of ink at a time, they are learning competitive creative and managerial Inside Northside

skills for their futures.

Another rewarding aspect of the business is its active involvement with other programs on campus.

The school’s robotics team provides building equipment, while the carpentry program builds the store. As for the accounting? Well, the business department takes care of that. Ryals says, “Too often, students are taught individual subjects within a box, and they can fail to see the connections between different subjects.” This community integration brings school lessons into real-world scenarios.

The reaction of the student base could not be more thrilling. Ryals says some of the students “want to plan and organize, some want to print shirts and some would love nothing more than to do design work every day. I think all of my students would agree that one of the biggest perks of our program is the sense of pride they feel when they see a student walking around campus wearing a shirt that they had a hand in making.”

In addition to t-shirts, the young, hard-working team can design and produce posters and stickers. Beyond the Fontainebleau community, DogHouse has also completed work for local businesses, including Chompers BBQ, Donut King and the Wrestling Academy of Louisiana. With a soldout program and a group of interns, DogHouse looks to expand its capacity for next year.

Engaging high schoolers in a way not found in a traditional classroom setting, DogHouse Design provides an opportunity to create not just a t-shirt, but a skill set that will prepare these students for a prosperous future.

photo: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

by Danielle Dietze

by Leslie Cardé

Live PD Host Dan Abrams inside Master Control

IT’S CABLE TELEVISION’S NUMBER ONE SHOW on Fridays and Saturdays and has pushed the A & E network to the top of the heap along with it.

Live PD is a documentary series showcasing police departments across America—in real time. Amongst the 34 different police and sheriff’s departments who have participated in the show since its inception in 2016, one city that’s become a fan favorite is right on the northshore—Slidell. When the Slidell PD springs into action for three hours each Friday and Saturday night, it’s part of a national television phenomenon that involves home viewers in the action via Facebook and Instagram posts and constant tweeting throughout the course of the night’s episodes.

When the show was first proposed to the Slidell police chief, the prospect of having live cameras

photo courtesy: A & E

in NYC.

Live!

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following his police officers around was less than tantalizing. “My first response was not no, but hell no,” said Slidell Chief of Police Randy Fandal. “This is law enforcement, and if you put yourself out there on live national TV, you’re really leaving yourself wide open because there’s just so much that can happen. But I was convinced by our Public Information Officer, Detective Daniel Seuzeneau, who had done the show in season one with the St. Tammany Sheriff’s Department, that letting the community in on what we do could be a very good thing.”

The show, produced by Big Fish Entertainment, emanates from its hub in New York City where master control resembles a war room of sorts, with monitors covering the walls all broadcasting live the goings-on within each city’s streets, as cops in cruisers patrol their respective neighborhoods. The ringleader and host of this law enforcement marathon and the glue that holds the show together is Dan Abrams, who also serves as an executive producer on the show while simultaneously maintaining his role as chief legal analyst for ABC News along with his third gig as host of The Dan Abrams Show on Sirius XM Radio.

He’s joined on Live PD by two analysts, Tom Morris Jr., a crime reporter and long-time correspondent for America’s Most Wanted as well as a special police officer in Washington, D.C.; and Sergeant Sean “Sticks” Larkin, of the Tulsa PD Gang Unit.

photos: LESLIE CARDE

Slidell PD…

“When the producers first came to me,” remembered Abrams, “I knew that the challenge would be getting into the right police departments and maintaining a level of journalistic standards.

My job is to keep the flow going. I don’t do a ton of legal analysis because the laws differ from state to state. Marijuana may be legal in Colorado, but it’s not in Texas. But, as a lawyer, I can certainly explain overriding principles of the law, like probable cause, and the legalities involved in pulling someone over, for example.”

The areas of the country involved in the show are a literal drive-by across the United States.

From Arizona to Connecticut, Utah to Oklahoma, California to Indiana, Missouri to Florida, Rhode Island to Oklahoma, and a host of other states that participate in the weekly arrest fest. If it sounds like a bit of a three-ring circus, with the director in New York calling for different cameras to go live from different cities, depending upon what’s happening at any given time, it is. It’s been compared in the TV world to directing the Super Bowl, making sure to get all of the action as it occurs. Of course, the Super Bowl is still essentially one location, and this has eight different cities going live simultaneously in each

show. It’s the unpredictability of the show that fans seem to love, no matter who they are.

“The unique thing about this show is that it reaches people from every walk of life—from children to senior citizens,” said Seuzeneau. “It’s become a Friday and Saturday night routine for many people here. It’s like a soap opera on the weekends, with >>

Left: Sgt. Dan Seuzeneau, Officer Clint McCall, Officer Jake Morris, Police Chief Randy Fandal, with Live PD Supervising Producer Tom Cunningham.

Top: Slidell PD Officer Jake Morris being mic’d

by Show Producer Ben Logan. Above: Live PD Cameraman Ben Swinehart wearing his bullet-proof vest.

May-June 2019 77

audience participation.”

For the officers in the field who are used to uncertainty, night patrols can alternate between mundane traffic stops and heart-pounding pursuits. “We were just in a high-speed chase last night with a motorcycle going over 100 miles per hour,” recounted Slidell police officer Jake Morris, who rides with his trained K-9, Kano. “The suspect took us on a wild ride heading to New Orleans, then doubled back, and suddenly bailed from the car. Then, he took us on a chase through the woods that seemed to last forever. We eventually found him hiding underneath a house.”

While being interviewed for this story, the officers in Slidell were still very scratched up from running through thorn-ridden thickets at top speeds.

And that means the camera crews are right behind them. Live PD Supervising Producer Tom Cunningham, who’s based in L.A. but is a permanent fixture with the Slidell crew, has done a number of law enforcement shows and is ex-military himself. So, keeping up with the cops, according to the officers he works with, isn’t a problem.

“The viewers want to feel like they’re on a ride-along, so we give them the view from the passenger seat, or as we’re chasing people down the street, so they can see just what the police deal with on a routine basis.”

In the over two and half years that Live PD has aired, no one has been killed, but there are always those situations that can keep the police and the viewers on the edges of their seats. One such incident happened in July 2017, when a senior deputy was called to a fight in progress at a large house party in South Carolina. As the deputy arrived, a car flew by him in the opposite direction, going about 90 miles per hour. As the police officer in

hot pursuit attempted to pull the vehicle over, the speeding driver turned a corner, jumped a curb and proceeded to hit a power pole’s support wire, flipping the car over. “As we’re watching this from the studio on live TV, we see the man crawl through the window, pulling a two-year old child out by her hair,” remembered host Dan Abrams. “Then, he proceeds to use her as a shield, while the officer is screaming at him ‘put down the child!’”

Fortunately, the man eventually released the toddler, who was taken away by a Live PD field producer while the suspect was subdued by a team of officers who had arrived on the scene.

The child escaped with a broken arm from the incident, but it’s touch and go for the police in this sort of encounter, knowing these incidents can go sideways very quickly. “Look, every incident on the street is an unknown situation,” said Officer Clint McCall, who rides with his K-9, Quest. “We try to give everyone the benefit of the doubt, and I’m nice to people who are nice to me. I try not to let people provoke me even when it’s evident that’s their goal.”

Along those lines, Officer McCall was recently called to a bar in Slidell, where it was reported a patron was throwing things at the bartender and was drunk and disorderly. At the scene, the female suspect was screaming in McCall’s face and was resisting getting in the squad car after being handcuffed. With other officers on the scene, she was placed in the back of the cruiser, but as McCall reached in to place her in a seatbelt, she spit in his face. Even with a 7-second delay, the officer was recorded on camera in an impulsive moment as he walked into the bar to clean himself up, calling the suspect a “stupid b….” before a number of bleeps occurred. Twitter nation erupted, and while some were critical, >> May-June 2019 79

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many more believed that Officer McCall might have said much worse, considering he’d just been spit on very close to his eye, a situation which could have posed an entirely separate medical issue. “Look,” said Abrams, “police aren’t always treated well. When someone urinates in the back of a squad car, it’s often the cops who have to deal with the clean-up.”

But, there it is—unvarnished, uncensored and just the way the 2.5 million viewers who tune in to each episode seem to like it.

“It’s been one of the best moves we’ve made in terms of community policing,” said Chief Fandal. “On Monday mornings, we get e-mails from people all across the country who’ve seen the show. We’ve been asked for autographed photos of our officers on a daily basis. People can really relate to the job these police officers are doing.”

For both the cops and the TV crew, it’s always safety first. Everyone wears bullet-proof vests. For the crew, the job is to get the story, without becoming a part of the story. Perhaps the popularity of the show can be chalked up to the total transparency of everything that happens, a first in a society which often relies on bodycams to figure out what happened at the scene of a crime after the fact. For police in general, who are often maligned, many of these cops have become local celebrities.

“We get borderline overwhelmed with fan mail and Facebook messages,” explained Detective Seuzeneau. “But, we have our own way of policing here in Slidell. I like to say it’s our Southern charm that people love.”

Whatever it is, the show is a hit all across the country. So, would Slidell be interested in doing this again for another season?

“Why not?” said the Chief. “It’s been a home run!”

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Raising the Roof for Charity 2019

by Poki Hampton SINCE 1994, the Northshore Home Builders Association has given away $5 million in its Raising the Roof campaign, supporting three different charities each year. The 2019 recipients are The North Oaks Foundation, Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West and New Orleans Mission – Lynhaven Retreat.

This year’s home was built by Keith West of West Custom Homes in Madisonville’s Southern Oaks subdivision. He says, “I am very honored and excited that West Custom Homes was chosen to build this year’s Raising the Roof for Charity Home. It has been a rewarding experience collaborating with our generous industry professionals to be part of an event that has given so much back to local

Many vendors, such as Pine Grove Lighting & Electrical Supply, Triton Stone, Southern Bath & Supply, Bevolo Gas & Electric Lanterns and Pro Source have generously donated their time and materials to make this project a success.

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charities over the years. I’m humbled when I think that the work we are doing has the opportunity to positively affect so many lives in our local community.”

The Southern Louisiana Coastal-style home is graciously appealing in its design; with four bedrooms and three baths, it is perfect for a growing family or retirees.

Greige Interiors designer Corrinn Fisher was instrumental in decorating the new Raffle House. She used a combination of comfortable, durable fabrics and livable styles to showcase the home. The living room sofa is slipcovered in an oystercolored performance fabric; its cushions have a flanged edge for interest, and multiple throw pillows are in tones of oyster with a pop of dark blue velvet. The painting above the sofa is by Jackson, Mississippi, artist Jackie Ellens. The 8-foottall obelisks have a custom whitewash finish. An adaptation of a classic wingback design, the steam-bent wood chair is in a driftwood finish, cushioned in light gray textured fabric; the club/rocking chair is slipcovered in an oatmeal linen. Solid

bronze with beveled glass shelves and top, the cocktail table sits on two rugs for more textural interest. The cowhide is in a fawn color atop the one-of-a-kind striped tapestry rug. Mustard colored accents such as the large jars on the cocktail table and the ceramic lamp are foils to the neutral color scheme. The hand-forged black iron lamp is by Ralph Lauren.

The North Oaks Foundation was established in 2015 to improve the region’s health through philanthropic efforts. The monies from Raising the Roof will provide funding for purchases of equipment that might not otherwise be possible. This year, the foundation has committed to raising $500,000 toward the purchase of a biplane machine that is specifically designed for the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders such as stroke and brain aneurysms. “The foundation recognizes the value and importance of the work that Dr. Zachary Liner and the North Oaks Intervention Radiology Department are performing and has committed to raise funds to help with the purchase of the biplane,” states Executive Director Staci Arceneaux.

Since its beginning in 1981, Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West has built and sold 269 homes and currently has 27 homeowners who have paid off their 30-year mortgages. This year’s proceeds from Raising the Roof will go toward the building of the Bickham family home. Courtney Bickham and her two children are excited to be getting a home of their own with a backyard to play in. “To me, a home is a place that’s just for me and my kids.

It’s what we’ve been dreaming of. Thank you so much to all the volunteers and donors. You are truly putting a smile on our faces and making a difference in our lives,” says Courtney.

The new New Orleans Mission – Lynhaven Retreat 18-acre facility near Hammond is a safe, secure place that serves hundreds of women in need each year. Women enrolled in the 12-month recovery program can enjoy a beautiful peaceful environment without the distraction of the city, affording them the best opportunity for healing and a transformed life.

The program promotes a strong mind, body, soul connection that helps to balance all aspects of life, leading to forgiveness, a healed heart and a sustainable recovery. Funds from the Raising the Roof donation will go toward the continued operation of Lynhaven.

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Generous Hearts

by Susan Bonnett Bourgeois

Serving the Northshore “WHERE’D YOU GO TO SCHOOL?” If you have lived in the New Orleans area for any length of time, you know instinctively that this question is about high school, and it is invariably the beginning of a name game of connect the social and family dots.

Similarly, when you learn someone was born in New Orleans, the follow up question is always “what hospital?” Very often, the one-word answer will be “Baptist,” and we will think fondly, it ain’t dere no more. But we would only be thinking of the physical structure itself.

Dere Some More What you might not know, however, is what is there, and in a substantial way, is Baptist Community Ministries, a faith-based Christian organization that is as robust, impactful and important as the structure originally built as Southern Baptist Hospital in 1926. Nearly 70 years later in 1995, the hospital was sold in response to an increasingly challenging health care environment, and with that sale, the $153 million foundation now known as BCM was born. Ironically, that birth actually proved to be one of the most important in Baptist’s history. Much like the facility that stood for decades, BCM’s mission is to improve the physical, mental and spiritual health of the individuals they serve in the Greater New Orleans region.

Unlike most foundations, BCM carries out its mission by grant-making to local nonprofits and providing unique direct services in its five-parish 84

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service area. Since 1996, BCM has given over $188 million in grants, employs 13 chaplains that do much-needed work in five hospitals, two nursing homes, and runs services in concert with local law enforcement to minister to individuals and families in crisis. Additionally, BCM trains and supports volunteers (registered nurses and laypeople) who lead wellness ministries in over 130 congregations throughout the region.

Today, BCM has investments valued at $311 million and is governed by 15 volunteer trustees, a third of whom live in St. Tammany Parish. Their goal has always been to ‘Heal Humanity’s Hurts’ – yesterday, today and tomorrow.

With St. Tammany being one of its five focus areas, BCM has a long history of partnering with organizations on the northshore. Its work here largely focuses on health, education and public safety and currently, grants to local organizations such as James Storehouse Louisiana, NAMI St. Tammany, Savannah Smiles and Youth Service Bureau in an effort to bolster the tight-knit fabric of the northshore.

“It’s such a privilege to be part of organizations that impact lives in our region in such diverse and meaningful ways. The relationship between BCM and the NCF is an incredibly valuable partnership, and together we are changing lives,” says BCM Trustee Drew Jardine.

In addition to immense support for critical nonprofits, BCM also provides direct services through its Congregational Wellness division. BCM staff train volunteers in churches to equip them to

photos courtesy: NORTHSHORE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Baptist Community Ministries

lead wellness ministries for the benefit of their fellow congregants and others in the community. Wellness ministry leaders are either registered nurses (Church Nurse Education Program) or laypersons (Congregational Health Promoter Program). This incredibly effective method of directly training people who already live in the community to take care of their neighbors is brilliant in its simplicity and creates a web of wellness throughout the parish.

BCM currently partners with 16 churches of various faiths in St. Tammany and has plans to increase this number in the coming years. The first church BCM partnered with on the northshore was Starlight Missionary Baptist church in Slidell in 2002.

Dere Much More Our Northshore Community Foundation thrives with the BCM partnership as it is a major figure in the generosity and service to our community. And, just as the physical presence of Baptist Hospital was a part of the fabric of Greater New Orleans for almost a century, the impact of BCM on the northshore will live on through the health and wellness of our people and will be ‘dere’ much more.

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by Karen B. Gibbs

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HEY, ST. TAMMANY! Are you ready for some football?

No, not the Saints. We’re talking about the Bayou Lacombe Cardinals, an Xtreme South Football minor league team that’s in its third season and scoring big— on the field and off. With a 13-3 overall record for the first two years and undefeated so far this year, the team is good, really good. Plus, it’s making a positive impact on the community and in the lives of its players.

Yes indeed, theirs is a Cinderella story, and it all started with Blaine Bond. He loved playing football in high school and missed the sport after graduating. There was a void in his life—a void he filled with the wrong people and the wrong things.

“I left Lacombe because all of my friends were either dead or in jail,” says Bond.

Then football came into his life again. “While I was working on a house in Slidell, I saw this guy with his football gear heading to practice. He told me he was playing on a minor league team in town. I tried out for the team and ended up playing free safety for the Slidell Steel Sharks from 2002-2007.” From there, Bond played and coached for fifteen years for various different teams in Louisiana.

His years of playing minor league ball had sparked his discipline, re-directed his life and

Inside Northside

introduced him to good friends. “Football saved my life,” says Bond. It was this “new” Bond that returned to Lacombe fifteen years later. One of the first things he did was pay a nostalgic visit to Chahta Ima elementary school, where the Bayou Lacombe Junior High teams used to play.

“I was looking over the grounds and saw the football field, and it was like God slapped me and said, ‘This is where you need to be.’” Following this directive, Bond made it his mission to start a minor league football team in Lacombe and offer young men a wholesome alternative to drugs and crime. “Between 18 and 25 is when kids make crucial mistakes,” Bond explains. “A minor league team would offer a buffer between high school and manhood, an introduction to the world.”

Bond’s Facebook post about starting the team caught the eye of Gerrin Narcisse of Lacombe.

Coincidentally, that same day, Narcisse had been relieved of his defensive coordinating duties at a high school due to a head coaching change, and he was scrolling through Facebook. “The first thing I thought of when I saw the post was that this could be something great,” says Narcisse. “My whole adult life, I’ve strived to put my community on the map for something positive.” This was definitely in line with his dreams to improve his community and the lives of

photos: PAIGE HENDERSON STUDIO

More than Football The Bayou Lacombe Cardinals

people around him.

Narcisse contacted Bond and discovered that not only did both men share the same vision, but they also wanted it for all the right reasons. Although neither of the two men had ever run a minor league team, they forged ahead, with Bond investing his own money to finance the team’s start-up. Drawing from his experience in the minor leagues, he set about getting good coaches and trainers, handling the details of traveling and finding players. “I knew we needed 40-50 players at tryouts to get the men excited about being part of the team,” says Bond.

“So I Googled the rosters of all the high school football teams in the past five years in St. Tammany, Tangipahoa and beyond. Then I searched for each player on Facebook, individually emailing them an invitation to try out for the team. We ended up with alums from all eight area high schools and beyond, attracting those who didn’t get a chance to play college ball and those who played in college but still wanted to play as adults.”

Meanwhile, Narcisse scoured Lacombe and surrounding towns for quality prospects, too. “We were looking for more than talent,” he says. “We wanted players with character, potential, drive, humility and a desire to improve themselves and help others. If they needed a job, we helped them find one.”

One Cardinals player who’s been with the team since day one is Lawrence Robinson, who plays safety and running back and is one of the team’s captains. “I love playing football,” he says. “With the Cardinals, we’re more than a team. There’s a chemistry between the coaches and the players. We’re like a brotherhood.” Plus, there’s magic between players and fans when a celebrity like Robinson takes time to talk and pose for pictures with young fans on game night.

Another player who values being on the team is Howard Travis, 22. He was living in Hammond when a high school friend told him about the Cardinals.

“I played high school football in New Orleans,” says Travis. “It kept me on a positive track.” After high school, however, he made some bad choices, choices

that alienated him from his family and made it almost impossible for him to forgive himself, even years later.

While playing with the Cardinals, however, Travis seemed to put that all behind him. “He volunteered for everything, was at every event and interacted with everyone on the team,” remarks Narcisse. “But once the public arrived, he sat in the background.” Narcisse asked why. Travis’ explanation shed light on his behavior.

“When I was 16, I was robbing people. I paid my debt, but I can’t look people in the eye because of that,” said Travis. Narcisse told him that God’s forgiven him, and he needed to forgive himself. Then he advised Travis to get a job so he could provide for his kids.

A week later, Travis was transformed. “I took a lot of time forgiving myself,” he says. “Now I’m back with my family and helping my sister in her business when I can.” Travis also applied to truck driving school and now is a professional truck driver. “Coach told me not to do long distance driving, though, because of my kids,” he adds.

Narcisse is grateful that football put him in a position to help Travis. No doubt, this meant more >> May-June 2019 87

than the talented player’s 72-yard touchdown run last year.

Another highly qualified player, Lance Foster, 46, is the team’s kicker.

Hailing from the Gulf Coast, Foster is a regional economic development director and an ex-military man who loves staying in shape. “I plan to play football until I can’t go anymore,” he says. Having played on four other minor league teams, Foster says Bond and Narcisse are rewriting the standard for running an organization. “They have a coach for each section of the team. I have two kicking coaches to mentor me; I’ve never had that before. They also select players that represent the team brand and don’t bring in riff raff for the sake of getting talent. Also, there’s also a level of communication between players and staff that breeds transparency.

Finally, I can’t say enough about our provisions. From uniforms to water to care, we always have enough.”

From the get-go, the goal of Bond and Narcisse was to help their players win in football and in life. So they set their standards high—for players and coaches, too. “We use football as the tool to elevate men,” says Narcisse. Indeed, both men were willing to help a player 88

Inside Northside

photos: PAIGE HENDERSON STUDIO

Gerrin Narcisse.

rise to these standards, but they were quick to cut any coaches who didn’t live by them. “We’ve actually cut more coaches than players,” he adds.

The team’s first year, 2016, was one of learning and growing.

With fifty players on the roster, ten coaches and a home field at Lakeshore High School in Mandeville, the Cardinals were ready to spread their wings. And their loyal fans were right there with them. In the first game, Cardinals fans outnumbered those of the home team. To everyone’s surprise but their own, the Cardinals won that first game 22-0. From then on, the league knew they were legitimate. The Birds only lost to the #1 and #2 teams in the league by a combined total of two points. Both of those teams were ranked in the top 15 in the nation.

By their second year, Narcisse had found sponsors to help defray the $750-$1,350 expenses for home and away games.

Jim Quakenbush of Gators Quick Stop on Hwy. 434 was one of the earliest to show support. “I buy into this team for two reasons. My wife is from Lacombe, and Gerrin is a dedicated man who wants to help the community, its families and kids.

Idle hands get into trouble; the Cardinals keep many idle hands busy,” he adds. “Plus, the team gives back to the community”— just like Quakenbush, who redeems Cardinals ticket stubs for a free hot dog and an entry into a raffle for a free tank of gas.

In year three, Narcisse spent the offseason solidifying the Cardinal’s non-profit status, marketing the team to businesses and promoting partnerships. One such community partner, Northshore Technical Community College, offers grants to players to further their education and transition to life after football.

Brandon Dolliole is one of seven players currently enrolled in the college. “I was working as a waiter but wanted to do better for my family,” he says. “On Coach Narcisse’s recommendation, I enrolled in a two-year welding course at Northshore Tech.” With graduation only a year away, Brandon’s already had two job offers.

“I wish I had done this eight years earlier,” he says.

Today, the Cardinals are in their third year and flying high with a 4-0 record. As word spreads about the fun, familyoriented games, the halftime entertainment, mini-cheerleaders and great concessions, attendance is swelling. (There were about >> May-June 2019 89

photo: PAIGE HENDERSON STUDIO

250-300 at a contest against the Tri-County Bengals). Fan loyalty extends even to away games. “We continue to have more fans at our away games in Alabama and Florida than the home teams do,” boasts Narcisse. The team’s regular season runs March to June each year with four home games and four away. The team plays at home on May 4 against the Walker Warriors.

The community is also getting involved. Fidelity Bank employees, such as Lindsey Chevalier and Jessica Carter, take turns selling tickets on game night, Pat Authement offers his school bus to transport players to away games, and the Mandeville Milkshakers ladies marching group provided entertainment at halftime. One enthusiastic fan, Sheila Rosario, fell in love with the mission of the Cardinals and told Narcisse she wanted to help.

She’s now the team’s community relations director.

“These guys love football and want to give back to their community,” says Rosario. Capitalizing on that sentiment, the Cardinals offer players the option to perform 10 hours of community service or pay $50 (instead of the usual $250 other teams charge) to play. As a result, through the Cardinals Care Outreach, players volunteer at activities such as Abita Springs Middle School’s field day and Pope John Paul II’s power-lifting tournament. They also help with the Lacombe Easter egg hunt, Halloween festivities, Santa on the Bayou, Wild Thing canoe rides, blood drives, the Crab Fest and STPHelps Blessing Box Build. “I just want to say thank you to our current fans, sponsors and partners because without them this organization could not touch the lives of so many people,” says Rosario.

From a divine inspiration to a winning operation, the Bayou Lacombe Cardinals have come a long way in three short years. In the words of Coach Narcisse, “Make sure to say we’re here to stay—and that we’re more than football.”

No doubt about it, Coach. More than winning in football, the Cardinals are about winning in life.

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Why Heart Walk?

AUBREY IS NOW a thriving 5-year-old, but she entered this world a fighter. When she was born, her parents quickly learned that Aubrey had a Tetralogy of Fallot, a common birth defect that features four problems in the heart. Her blood was pumped from a hole in the heart to the body instead of through the lungs.

Aubrey’s story is not uncommon, as heart defects are the number one birth defect of babies—1 in 100 babies will experience a heart defect at birth, just like Aubrey did.

Aubrey’s mother struggled to wrap her mind around Aubrey’s condition and the heart journey that was ahead of her. Heather quickly learned that Aubrey would overcome this diagnosis and grow to be a spunky little girl full of energy and love. Aubrey has one successful surgery behind her and at least one more in her future.

“Aubrey and her family embody the American Heart Association’s mission, and heart disease and stroke have personally affected my own family. Both of these reasons are near to my heart and inspired me to chair the 2019 Northshore Heart Walk,” says Dennis Pasentine, Chair, 2019 Northshore Heart Walk and President of Florida Marine Transporters. “In the past, Aubrey’s diagnosis could have been a death sentence. But through research conducted by the American Heart Association, which is funded by events like the Heart Walk, we can advance medical knowledge and help save lives like hers.”

Although the rate of congenital heart defects has not decreased over time, more infants with heart defects are surviving to adulthood because of advancements made through research and technology. The American Heart

photo courtesy: AHA

Association works hard to fund research right here on the northshore that helps save lives through advanced systems of care, medicines, treatment and prevention.

Heart disease takes more lives than all cancers combined. Together we can show our support and take a stand to raise awareness.

Join Aubrey’s family and Florida Marine Transporters at the 2019 Northshore Heart Walk on June 1. Festivities begin at 8 a.m.; walk begins at 9 for the 3.2 mile route at Fontainebleau State Park. Register at NorthshoreHeartWalk.org.

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M A R R I A G E A N D L O V E I N

Armbruster-Reich Caroline Elizabeth Armbruster and Andrew Everett Reich exchanged their vows at the home of an old family friend. Surrounded by family and friends, the bride graced the aisle in an ivory pleated ball gown while River by Leon Bridges played. She carried a bouquet of mixed white flowers and overflowing greenery

by Florist of Covington. The blooms were wrapped in her mother’s wedding veil as her “something old.” Her maids dressed in mismatched neutrals carrying complementing bouquets of white flowers and greenery. The couple’s pup, Rupert, served as ringbearer, and the bride’s 1-year-old goddaughter as flower girl.

Following the ceremony, guests reconvened under the lighted tent for dinner provided by Dakota Restaurant. The tables were dressed in greenery, florals and wedding photos of family and friends. For the reception, Caroline donned a light tulle gown with a wraparound sash and low back to celebrate.

The bride and her father danced to the Beauty and the Beast theme song, a favorite movie of the two, and the groom and his mother to Van Morrison’s Days Like This. Beaucoup Boogie provided tunes from wedding classics to New to experience their very first second line as well as king cake from the dessert table. The almond wedding cake with raspberry and chocolate filling was accompanied by mini hand pies, mini cannolis and macarons. The newlyweds, who will honeymoon to Spain in June, reside in Richmond, Virginia.

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photo: EMILY SONGER

Orleans brass to keep everyone dancing. Many out-of-town guests were able

INside Peek photo: PAT SEVART photo: NANCY WILSON

photo: PAT SEVART

Over 600 guests celebrated 20 years of the healing power of the horse at New Heights’ 16th Annual Garden Party held at Summergrove Polo Farm and the adjoining New Heights Therapeutic Riding Center.

Generously hosted by David Fennelly and Carlos Sanchez, the premier fundraiser generates greatly needed funds to provide financial assistance to adults and children who can benefit from adaptive riding and hippotherapy. Twenty-two restaurants showcased delectable dishes and libations in the arena. In the center of the arena, David Fennelly began the Live Auction and introduced the new Helping Horses Help People program, which gave guests the first opportunity to underwrite the costs of caring for one of New Heights’ twelve special therapy horses for $2,500 for one year.

photo: SANDY BUCKMAN

Garden Party

Spring for Art at the JLGC

photos courtesy: JLGC

The Junior League of Greater Covington hosted an open house during Spring for Art in downtown Covington.

The party included food, drinks and a raffle of a $500 Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry gift card and four wine tastings at Barrel Wine. The JLGC would like to thank Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, Mercedes-Benz of Covington, NOLA Lending Group and Stella Artois for their generosity.

INside Peek Chef Soirée The 35th anniversary of the Youth Service Bureau’s Chef Soirée was a scrumptious success.

Hungry patrons gathered at the Covington Trailhead for an array of food, drinks and entertainment.

On three stages, partygoers danced and listened to Boogie Falaya, Christian Serpas & Ghost Town, Peace of Cake, Crispin Schroeder Trio and Supercharger. Proceeds from the event help YSB provide advocacy, counseling, education and intervention for at-risk youth and families in St. Tammany and Washington Parishes.

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Inside Northside

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

Meet the Artists Party Inside Northside MarchApril cover artists Cynthia Webb and Robert Labranche displayed some of their favorite collaborative works at Armbruster Artworks in Covington. Fans, friends and other Inside Northside readers joined the two artists for small bites and libations. The fun continued afterwards as guests hit the downtown streets for the Columbia Street Block Party.

May-June 2019 97

INside Peek 1. Mardi Paws 2019 Celebrity Monarch actor Matthew Davis stealing puppy kisses at the photo: BACH IMAGERY

parade on the lakefront. 2. Tim Kennedy and Keith Patterson celebrating as the 2019 Money Hill MGA Member Champions. 3. Girl Scouts who sold over 500 boxes of cookies were inducted into the Cookie Hall of Fame and celebrated with

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a trip to a Pelicans’ game. 4. Joshua Bonnett, Katie Garraway, Macy Migliore and Miles Gensler headed to St. Paul’s Junior-Senior Prom.

5. Volunteers joined Keep Madisonville Beautiful for the first ever Leaders Against Litter event in Madisonville. 6. Keith, Maggie and Peggy Benit before SSA’s Senior Prom. 7. Gurney Game team members posing at the fun and festive St. Tammany Hospital Foundation Gurney Games.

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8. The Melissa R. Henry 4th Golf Tournament gathered golfers and more to the Royal Golf Club in Slidell. 9. Lindsey LaJack with Mallory Goorley

10. Allie Matte, Lillie Parrie, Laurie McCants, Kayla Tolar, Elizabeth Westervelt and Shelley Winstead recovering the Harvest Cup Polo Classic’s bourbon bury from 2018.

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photos: CHOPPER IMAGES

of Suella at the Galentine’s day pop-up shop.

Business After Hours

photos courtesy: CEDARWOOD SCHOOL/STWC

Cedarwood School hosted and sponsored the St. Tammany West Chamber’s March Business After Hours where Cedarwood School cheerleaders happily greeted guests. Chamber members and future members met and mingled while enjoying appetizers, beverages and more in the school’s gymnasium.

Haute Plates

A selection of restaurants and haute dishes found around the northshore and beyond.

Antoine’s

Bayside Grill

NEW ORLEANS

POINT CLEAR, ALABAMA

408 N. CAUSEWAY BLVD.

ANTOINES.COM

GRAND1847.COM

951-2626

713 ST. LOUIS ST. (504) 581-4422

Established in 1840, Antoine’s

1 GRAND BLVD. 251-928-9201

Whether enjoying a stay at The Grand Hotel or visiting for the day,

Ceasar’s Ristorante

Half Shell Oyster House

MANDEVILLE

COVINGTON • 276-4500

CEASARSRISTORANTE.NET

HALFSHELLOYSTERHOUSE.COM Local Gulf oysters and a variety

is the oldest French-Creole fine

catch local fare at Bayside Grill. Gulf

dining restaurant in New Orleans.

grouper topped with rock shrimp

innovative authentic Italian food

Orleans flair and influence that

Come see what it is all about and

over wild rice jambalaya garnished

made from scratch sourcing fresh

extends throughout our ambience

enjoy great food along with a

with a smoked pepper vinaigrette

local ingredients in their season.

and menu. Steaks, chicken, pasta and

memorable experience! Make your

chili oil. For menu and live music

Come enjoy the good food, Italian

so much more. Lunch, dinner, daily

reservation today.

schedule, visit Grand1847.com.

wine, and elegant atmosphere.

happy hour, Sunday brunch.

La Carreta

Pat’s Seafood

MANDEVILLE,

1248 N. COLLINS BLVD.

HAMMOND

892-7287

COVINGTON,

AND PONCHATOULA

CARRETARESTAURANT.COM

COVINGTON

Fresh local seafood and a large

Offering traditional and

70367 HWY 21

Salty Joe’s

43344 S. RANGE RD.

HAMMOND 956-7099 SALTYJOESBBQ.COM As a one-of-a-kind dining

of Gulf Coast seafood with a New

WOW American Eats

13130 LA HWY 1085, STE. 103 COVINGTON

WOW American Eats opening

offering of deli to-go items such as

destination, dishes are made with

in Covington this May with patio

boiled crawfish, gumbo, crawfish pie,

the best local ingredients from the

seating, kiosk ordering and an

food in a fun and festive atmosphere, La

corn and crab bisque, crabmeat au

land to the sea. Pecan-wood in the

iPourIT Draft Beer wall. Serving

Carreta offers authentic Mexican cuisine

gratin and po-boys. On-site catering

smoker gives slow-smoked meats

breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days a

at several locations across Southeast

available.

Celebrating over 20 years of fresh

the intricate flavors of BBQ that

week! Located next to Rouses in the

Louisiana. Daily lunch specials, fiesta

you love. If it’s fire-touched flavors

Copperstill Marketplace, across from

time daily and family friendly.

you crave, enjoy our grilled meats,

Hannan High School.

burgers, and fresh seafood.

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Del Porto Restaurant, 501 E. Boston St., 875-1006. Northern Italian cuisine. delportoristorante.com. MCC, RR.

MCC: Major credit cards accepted ME: Menu Express delivery

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, 69292 Hwy.

RR: Reservations recommended

21, 871-2225. Locally-owned and -operated franchise. Kids eat free on

COVINGTON

Sundays. MCC.

Abita Roasting Company, 1011 Village Walk, 246-3345.

DiCristina’s Restaurant, 810 N.

abitaroasting.com.

Columbia St., Ste. C, 875-0160. Italian and seafood. dicristinas.com. MCC.

Acme Oyster House, 1202 Hwy. 190, 246-6155. Lunch, dinner.

DiMartino’s, 700 S. Tyler St., 276-

mamdspizza.com. MCC.

6460. Great food and reasonable prices. Lunch, dinner. dimartinos.com.

bacobar, 70437 LA-21, 893-2450.

MCC.

International street food with South Louisiana soul. bacobarnola.com.

Don’s Seafood Hut, 126 Lake

MCC.

Dr., 327-7111. Lunch and dinner. donsseafoodonline.com. MCC.

Barrel Wine Bar, 69305 LA 21, Ste. E, 272-8485. Wine, small plates

The English Tea Room, 734

and more. Live music Tuesdays and

Rutland St., 898-3988. Breakfast,

Thursdays. MCC.

lunch, high tea. Mon-Sat, 9am-6pm. englishtearoom.com. MCC, RR.

Carreta’s Grill, 70380 Hwy. 21, 871-6674. Great Mexican cuisine and

Gallagher’s Grill, 509 S. Tyler

margaritas served in a family-friendly

St., 892-9992. Tues-Sat: Lunch,

atmosphere for lunch and dinner. Kids

11am-2pm. Dinner, 5-9pm. Closed

eat free every Wednesday! Private

Sunday and Monday. gallaghersgrill.

events and catering also provided.

com. MCC, RR.

carretasgrill.com. MCC. The Green House Salad Co, 104 CC’s Coffee House, 1331 N Hwy

Lake Dr, 898-6380. Signature salads

190., 900-2241. Catering, coffee,

made to order. MCC.

pastries and more. Open 7 days a week. Easy drive thru. ccscoffee.com.

Habanero’s, 69305 Highway 21,

MCC.

Ste. 600, 871-9760. Daily specials, happy hour 2-6. habaneroscuisine.

The Chimes, 19130 W. Front St.,

com. MCC.

892-5396. Catering, Sunday brunch, daily lunch specials, 72 beers on tap.

Half Shell Oyster House, 70367

Lunch and dinner. chimesbeeru.com.

Hwy 21, Ste 100, 276-4500. Local

MCC.

Gulf oysters and a variety of Gulf Coast seafood with a New Orleans

Coffee Rani, 234-A Lee Ln., 893-

flare. halfshelloysterhouse.com. MCC.

6158. Soup and salad specialists. coffeerani.com. MCC.

La Carreta Authentic Mexican Cuisine, 812 Hwy. 190, 624-2990.

Columbia St. Tap Room & Grill, 434

Festive Mexican atmosphere, fresh

N. Columbia St., 898-0899. Lunch,

food from traditional recipes. Lunch

dinner. covingtontaproom.com. MCC,

and dinner seven days a week.

ME.

carretasrestaurant.com. MCC.

Dakota Restaurant, 629 N. Hwy.

La Casa de Sabores, 324 East

190, 892-3712. Contemporary

Boston St, 900-2297. Authentic

Louisiana cuisine using local

family recipes, patio dining & private

and seasonal ingredients.

room options with full service bar.

thedakotarestaurant.com. MCC, RR.

lacasaonboston.com.

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May-June 2019 103

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Salty Joe’s BBQ, 43344 S. Range Rd,

4992. Lunch, Mon-Fri; Dinner, Fri-Sat.

956-7099. New southern BBQ.,daily

Closed Sundays. lolacovington.com.

specials, lunch and dinner. MCC.

Mattina Bella, 421 E. Gibson St.,

MANDEVILLE

892-0708. Breakfast, lunch, dinner.

The Barley Oak, 2101 Lakeshore Dr.,

MCC, checks.

727-7420. Serving 130 styles of beer, call and premium liquors. Lunch and

Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers,

dinner. thebarleyoak.com. MCC.

1645 Hwy. 190, 327-5407. Salads, pizzas, calzones. 20 craft beers on

Beach House, 124 Girod, 985-

tap. Open 7 days a week. Lunch and

624-9331. Neighborhood Cafe.

dinner. MCC. mellowmushroom.com.

beachhousemandeville.com. MCC.

Mugshots Grill & Bar, 300

Bistro Byronz, 1901 Highway 190,

River Highlands Blvd., 893-2422.

985-951-7595. American. MCC.

mugshotsgrillandbar.com.

Café Lynn Restaurant and New Orleans Food and Spirits, 208

Catering, 2600 Florida St., 624-9007.

Lee Ln., 875-0432. Family owned and

Tues-Fri, lunch: 11am-3pm. Dinner,

operated. neworleansfoodspirits.com.

5pm. Catering provided. cafelynn.com.

MCC.

MCC.

Nonna Randazzo’s Italian Bakery

Ceasar’s Ristorante, 408 N

and Cafè, 2033 N. Hwy. 190, Ste.

Causeway Blvd, 951-2626. Authenic

5, 893-1488. Full service, year-round

Italian cuisine. ceasarsristorante.net.

bakery. nonnarandazzo.com. MCC.

MCC.

Outback Steakhouse, 60 Park Place

Coffee Rani, 3517 Hwy. 190, 674-

Dr., 893-0505. Australian-themed

0560. Soup and salad specialists.

cuisine. outback.com. MCC. Coscino’s Pizza, 1809 N. Causeway Ox Lot 9, 428 E Boston St., 400-

Blvd., 727-4984. Italian. MCC.

5663. Inside the Southern Hotel.

Tues-Sat, 5-10pm; Sunday brunch,

Creole Tomateaux, 1851 Florida

10am-2pm. oxlot9.com. MCC.

St., 951-2650. Authentic Creole Cuisine, family-friendly atmosphere.

Pat’s Seafood, 1248 N. Collins Blvd.,

Food Truck available for your events.

892-7287. Jambalaya, gumbo, stuffed

creoletomateaux.com.

artichokes. MCC, checks, ME. Daisey Dukes, 1200 W. Causeway Zea Rotisserie & Grill, 110 Lake Dr.,

Approach, Ste 13, 951-2140. MCC.

327-0520. Inspired American food. zearestaurants.com. MCC.

El Paso Mexican Grill, 3410 US 190, 624-2345. Daily specials, happy hour,

HAMMOND

2-7pm. elpasomex.com. MCC.

Don’s Seafood & Steak House, 1915 S. Morrison Blvd., 345-8550.

Fat Spoon Café, 68480 Hwy. 59.,

donsseafoodonline.com. MCC.

809-2929. Breakfast served until 10:30am on weekdays and all day

La Carreta Authentic Mexican

Saturday and Sunday. fatspooncafe.

Cuisine, 108 N.W Railroad Ave., 419-

com. MCC.

9990. Festive Mexican atmosphere, fresh food from traditional recipes.

Fazzio’s Seafood & Steakhouse,

Lunch and dinner seven days a week.

1841 N. Causeway Blvd., 624-9704.

carretarestaurant.com. MCC.

Fresh fish daily, aged beef, traditional Italian. Lunch, dinner. fazziosrestaurant.

One Thirteen Restaurant, 113 N Oak

com. MCC, ME, RR.

St, 402-3481. onethirteenrestaurant. com. MCC.

Franco’s Grill,100 Bon Temps Roule, 792-0200. Fresh organic foods

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Inside Northside

i for breakfast, lunch and takeout.

Dr., 985-626-8188. Sandwiches.

myfrancos.com/dining. MCC.

MCC.

George’s Mexican Restaurant,

Raising Canes, 3801 Hwy. 22, 674-

1461 N. Causeway Blvd., 626-

2042. Dine-in, to-go and catering.

4342. Family owned. Fajitas,

MCC.

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George’s nachos, Carne al la Parrilla. georgesmexicanrestaurant.com. MCC,

Rob’s Rockin’ Dogs, 2890 E.

ME.

Causeway Appr, 231-7688. Gourmet hotdogs. robsrockindogs.com. MCC.

K. Gee’s, 2534 Florida St., 626-0530.

Featuring Louisiana seafood, express

Rip’s on the Lake, 1917 Lakeshore

lunch and daily lunch specials under

Dr., 727-2829.

$10. Mon-Thurs, 11am-9pm; Fri-Sat, 11am-10pm. kgeesrestaurant.com.

Rusty Pelican, 500 Girod

MCC.

St., 778-0364. Lunch, dinner. rustypelicanbythelake.com. MCC.

La Carreta Authentic Mexican Cuisine, 1200 W. Causeway

SWEGS Kitchen, 4350 Hwy 22, Ste

App., 624-2990. Festive Mexican

H, Mandeville, 951-2064. Healthy pre-

atmosphere, fresh food from traditional

made comfort food. SwegsKitchen.

recipes. Lunch and dinner seven days

com. MCC.

a week. carretasrestaurant.com. MCC. Times Grill, 1896 N. Causeway Blvd., The Lakehouse, 2025 Lakeshore Dr.,

626-1161. Lunch, dinner. timesgrill.

626-3006, events 778-2045. “Culinary

com. ME, MCC.

revival” and breaktaking views of Lake SLIDELL

Pontchartrain. lakehousecuisine.com.

MCC, RR.

A Touch of Italy Café, 134 Pennsylvania Ave., 326-8987.

Lama’s St. Roch, 1814 N. Causeway

Breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner.

Blvd, Mandeville, 951-2135. Seafood

touchofitalyslidell.com. MCC, checks.

and Cajun style entrees. MCC. Cafe Luke, 153 Robert St., 707Nuvolari’s, 246 Girod St., 626-5619.

1597. Breakfast and brunch favorites

In Old Mandeville. Italian cuisine for

plus Dinner Theatre. MCC.

fine dining daily for dinner or special events. MCC. nuvolaris.com.

Carreta’s Grill, 137 Taos St., 847-0020.

Great Mexican cuisine and margaritas

The Old Rail Brewing Company,

served in a family-friendly atmosphere

639 Girod St., 612-1828. Homemade

for lunch and dinner. carretasgrill.com.

American cuisine with fresh,

MCC.

local ingredients. Family-friendly atmosphere. Lunch and dinner. Closed

El Paso Mexican Grill, 1100 Robert

Mondays. MCC.

Blvd, 445-1450. Daily specials, happy hour. elpasomex.com. MCC.

Pat Gallagher’s 527 Restaurant and Bar, 527 N. Causeway Blvd, 778-2820.

Gallagher’s on Front Street, 2306

Lunch, Tues-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm.

Front St., 326-8350. Tues-Thurs,

Dinner, Tues-Sat 5-9:30pm.

5-9:30 pm; Friday & Saturday, 5-10:30

gallaghers527restaurant.com.

pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.

MCC.

PJ’s Coffee & Tea Co., 2963 Hwy. 190, 674-1565. Catering. pjscoffee.

Peck’s Seafood Restaurant, 2315

com. MCC.

Gause Blvd. E., 781-7272. Po-boys, seafood, burgers and lunch specials.

Poke Loa, 1810 N Causeway Blvd,

MCC.

778-0444. Louisiana’s freshest poke bowls. eatpokeloa.com. MCC.

Times Grill, 1827 Front St., 6393335. Lunch, dinner. timesgrill.com.

Pontchartrain Po-Boys, 318 Dalwill

ME, MCC.

May-June 2019 105

Salty Joe’s BBQ

BBQ IS ALWAYS GOOD, but BBQ at Salty Joes is a one-of-a-kind experience. With a music stage and rustic décor, like a full-size school bus outdoors and wooden boat inside, every turn is an adventure at Salty Joe’s.

Positioned on Range Road in Hammond, the fun and eclectic restaurant offers a full menu of slowsmoked BBQ, southern-style seafood, steaks, pasta, sandwiches, soups, salads and more. Kick off your meal with an appetizer of smoked pork belly and sausage or fresh street corn slathered in mayo, tajin spices and cotija cheese.

For your meal, Salty Joe’s slowsmoked meats have the intricate flavors of pecan wood, and grilled meats are fire-touched. Choose from smoked pulled pork, brisket, St. Louis-style ribs or the half-chicken with your choice of two sides. Or, if you can’t decide, there’s a smoked platter for that! Farm sides include all of the BBQ classics like mac and cheese, coleslaw, baked beans, potato salad and corn pudding, plus more.

If a sweet tooth survives your salty and savory meal, try the bread pudding, brownie à la mode, turtle cheesecake, key lime pie or Abita Root Beer float! For happy hour Monday through Friday from 3-6 p.m., enjoy $3 domestic draft beers and half-price strawberry, mango, lime and raspberry margaritas.

Cheers!

by Leah Draffen

Above: Smoked pork belly and sausage.

Right: Salty Joe’s bartender, Bethany, shaking up a refreshing cocktail.

Salty Joe’s BBQ is located at 43344 .S Range Rd. in Hammond. 985-9567099. saltyjoesbbq.com.

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Inside Northside

photos courtesy: WAITR

Last Bite