November-December 2022 Issue of Inside Northside Magazine

SARCASTIC

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS

MCDONALD

Caring for Our Friends and Neighbors Here on the Northshore!

Our Lady of the Lake Physician Group is dedicated to providing a full range of care right here on the Northshore, with convenient locations in Covington and Slidell. In addition to your annual checkup, our experienced group of providers specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of illnesses and complex medical conditions.

Learn more and schedule an appointment at ololrmc.com/northshore.

Providing pediatric care on the Northshore! Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health is a collaborative, coordinated and child-focused statewide network. We recently added Grant Clinkingbeard, MD, to our growing network of care, with an office conveniently located in Covington. To make an appointment, call us at (985) 400-5566.

Brian Galofaro, MD Family Medicine

Alle Norris, NP Family Medicine

Susan Ovella, MD Internal Medicine & Pediatrics

Brad LeBert, MD Otolaryngology

Timothy Devraj, MD Orthopedic Surgery

Grant Clinkingbeard, MD Pediatrics

Lauren McManus, MD Internal Medicine

Be MERRY in St. Tammany Parish

Holiday Events to Celebrate

Find details on the Three Rivers Art Festival, Abita Fall Fest, Sip n’ Strolls, Holiday of Lights, Winter on the Water, Christmas on the Bayou, Brunch with Santa, Deck The Rails, Community Christmas Parade and more online.

Find Your Niche... at Niche Modern

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from the Inside Northside team

The holiday season means so much more than a few months on the calendar. For many of us, it means family traditions passed on to the next generation. It means holiday card photo shoots and appointments with Santa, gatherings with relatives and friends that may be spread far and wide, and warm kitchens with warm hugs. Maybe it means bumping Christmas music in carline on November 1st (don’t judge) or thoughtfully picking out the perfect gifts for those we love. It definitely means giving thanks for the many blessings we have.

Personally, I am thankful for my team and all our contributors here at Inside Northside who work hard to bring you the magazine you love. I am thankful for the partnership of our business and community leaders across the Northshore, and for the enthusiastic support of our readers. I am thankful for a happy and healthy family, eggnog daiquiris, and the extra lane on I-12 this shopping season.

This issue is full of holiday happiness. Our Scoop calendar has all the Northshore holiday events at your fingertips, ready for your planner. Need a cocktail? We’ve got you covered. Need a gift? We’ve really got you covered! Our Holiday Gift Guide is bursting with great gift ideas from local Northshore businesses.

The Inside Northside team had so much fun putting this issue together for you - we hope you enjoy it! And from all of us, have a merry and magical holiday season.

CONTRIBUTORS

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

MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

Mimi Greenwood Knight is a freelance writer and recent empty nester. She and her husband, David, live on a hobby farm in Folsom. Mimi is blessed to have thousands of articles and essays published in national and regional magazines, as well as anthologies and Christian devotionals. When not writing, she enjoys the “home arts” of cooking, canning, gardening, knitting, chicken wrangling and beekeeping.

SANDRA SCALISE

JUNEAU

A native Louisianian and resident of Madisonville, Sandra Scalise Juneau created the Bonne Bouchee series of culinary features in the mid-1960s and has been a contributing writer for Inside Northside since 1985. Her book, Celebrating with St. Joseph Altars, published by LSU Press in March 2021, has received nationwide acclaim and is now in its second printing.

STEVEN MILLS

Steven grew up in Covington and enjoys writing stories about the people and businesses that make the Northshore a special place to live. After graduating from LSU with a master’s degree in archi tecture, he was hired as a residential designer for LRK Architects. Steven enjoys spending time with his dog, Piper, and riding horses in Folsom. arts” of cooking, canning, gardening, knitting, chicken wrangling and beekeeping.

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Publisher Desiree Forsyth

desiree@insidepub.com

Editor Chelsea Adams chelsea@insidepub.com

Creative Director Ashlan Lehmann ashlan@insidepub.com

Business Manager Jane Quillin jane@insidepub.com

Operations Manager Margaret Rivera margaret@insidepub.com

Jr. Graphic Designer Meghan Healy meghan@insidepub.com Marketing and Melissa Leblanc Communications melissa@insidepub.com

Advertising Account Barbara Roscoe

Executives barbara@insidepub.com

Poki Hampton poki@insidepub.com

Pemmie Sheasby pemmie@insidepub.com

Brenda Breck brenda@insidepub.com

Stacey Paretti Rase Kelly Land kelly@insidepub.com

ON THE COVER

CONTACT

phone (985) 626-9684

Advertising Sales sales@insidepub.com

Subscriptions subscriptions@insidepub.com

INSIDE NORTHSIDE is published bi-monthly (January, March, May, July, September, November) by Working Presses, LLC, 29092 Krentel Road, Lacombe, LA 70445 as a means of communication and information for St. Tammany and Tangipahoa Parishes, Louisiana. Bulk Postage paid at Mandeville, LA. Copyright ©2022 by Working Presses, LLC. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written consent of publisher. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and artwork.

Cover Artist Troy Dugas Find more on page 12.

Editorial Contributors: Susan Bonnett Bourgeois, Hilary Creamer, Kiyomi Appleton Gaines, Poki Hampton, Paige Henderson Photography, Haleigh Jabbia, Yvette Jemison, Joanie Johnston, Coleen Perriloux Landry, Anthony “Chopper” Leone, Mike Smith and Chris Ward

Cover Artist Troy Dugas

Radiating art BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

If Troy Dugas never sold a single piece of artwork, he’d still be compelled to create. A quiet child growing up in Duson, La., he spent hours explor ing colors and shapes and radial form on his Etch-a-Sketch, Light Brite and Spirograph. The hours he devoted to those toys back then still inform his work today. “I don’t think much differently than I did then,” he said. His current work bears that out.

On oversized canvases, Dugas employs simple materials such as vintage prod uct labels, cigar bands, illustrated book pages and vintage textiles to create intricate radial forms, sometimes abstract and sometimes with recognizable shapes of portrait or still life. The work is meticulous and unimaginably detailed. Dugas spends hours (and he admits, often weeks and months) pains takingly cutting, shredding, arranging and reassembling these printed materi als onto paper, canvas or wood, generating patterns that give the appearance of having been woven. Lately, he’s also designing and printing his own

COURTESY OF TROY DUGAS

labels, adding even more steps and time to his creative process.

Traditionally a painter, Dugas often layers his patterns with paint. The colors are vibrant, the vibe playful, the sensitivity primitive, and the overall work is as generous in nature as Dugas himself. The end result calls to mind many things— stained glass windows, mandalas, Persian rugs, collages, quilts, crochet and embroidered samplers—all achieved with such quotidian materials as soup or cereal labels.

Dugas’ latest work takes the woven effect one step further, actually weaving his pieces into tapestries to be hung on the wall. “My latest show at Arthur Roger Gallery in New Orleans I called ‘Rugged,’” Dugas said. “It featured recycled yarn from Brazil that’s course and rough. I fell in love with the mate rial and wanted to explore what I could do with it.” So, he created the designs he wanted and used first a hand tool, then an industrial tufting gun to recreate the design on rugs no one would dare walk upon.

Growing up in Duson, Dugas dreamed of studying fashion. But when he enrolled in University of Louisiana at Lafayette, he found only fashion merchandising in the course list. He gave it his best but was derailed by the accounting portion. Frustrated, Dugas signed up for a drawing class. “I was like a puppy follow ing the teacher around,” he said. “I couldn’t get enough. But when I decided to change my major to art, even he discouraged me.” He changed his major to

painting anyway and took the next six years to graduate.

Dugas realized his dream of working in fashion when a job with Macy’s Department Stores led to him designing children’s clothes, working with Macy’s designers on their in-house brand. “I was designing pajamas with dump trucks and dino saurs and thinking, ‘What is happening here?’” he said with a laugh. “But if you follow your interests, you’ll often find your place.”

After graduate school at ULL, Dugas made his way to New York and a little bayou boy found success in the big city. There for seven years, he ended up working for Nickelodeon Studios, earning his way up to lead designer on the popular Blue’s Clues children’s program. “The work I was making at the time translated well into the show,” Dugas said. “I took the job very seriously, and New York was good to me.”

He was at the top of his game as lead designer for Blue’s Clues, illustrating a book for Simon & Schuster, had a show of his work at a museum in New Jersey, and felt ignited by all he was learning. “I was in my 30s and my brain was still malleable,” Dugas said. “I was just taking it all in.” Then, 9/11 happened and Dugas found himself in the middle of the turmoil.

“I could see the towers from my apartment, then they were just gone,” he said. “We all forced ourselves to get back to living but it was terrifying riding the trains and walking the streets, and I shut down creatively. One day, I was on the train, and it stopped. There was white dust everywhere and this was in the middle of the anthrax panic. I told myself, ‘If I get out of here alive, I’m going home’.”

That’s exactly what he did. He and his partner, Ralph, a fellow artist specializing in ink wash, moved back to Lafayette and

I told myself, ‘If I get out of here alive, I’m going home.’

TROY DUGAS:

PHOTO CREDIT: CHRIS WARD

PHOTO COURTESY OF TROY DUGAS

he continued to create his art while teaching at ULL. Ironically, he found they now have a fashion major, and he was able to teach a fashion class as well as various art classes for seven years.

Since then, he’s worked for the Lafayette Parish school system teaching talented art to students from elementary through high school, although he admits his favorite is middle school. “Kids that age are communicating with you all the time, whether with words or through their art,” he said.

When he began with the talent art program, there were only three teach ers. Now, there are 13 in visual art alone and a total of 25 including dance, theater and music. Dugas introduces his students to a variety of mediums. In a given week, he might be working with elementary kids on paper mache, middle schoolers on sculpture, and high school students on oil pastels. He admits he often poses problems to the kids he’s wrestling with himself. “I was researching radial form while I was teaching a design class at ULL, so that’s what we worked on. We explored the idea together,” he said.

“I like to include a lot of art history too, teaching the kids to appreciate and be influenced by different artists.” The walls of his own home are filled with the work of indigenous folk artists who inspire and influence him. “There’s a sweetness to folk art but also an under lying darkness,” he said. “That’s what

really draws me.” Dugas has been teach ing for 19 years now and has stayed in touch with a lot of his students, often through their parents. “I’m proud of what some of them are doing,” he said.

To date, Dugas has had seven solo shows and been included in group shows and art fairs. His work has been shown at Arthur Roger Gallery in New Orleans, Acadiana Center for the Arts in Lafayette, Art and Science Museum in Baton Rouge, Cooper Cole Gallery in Ontario, Canada, Islip Art Museum’s Carriage House in Long Island, NY, and elsewhere.

Meanwhile, in his historic home in Lafayette, Troy Dugas is not even close to finished exploring radial form, symmetry, pattern and the folk art aesthetic. He’s on the lookout for mate rials that speak to him. He has a room filled ceiling to floor with recycled yarn and a storage unit full of prod uct labels. Just recently, the father of a former student found rolls of 1970s bread labels in a dumpster and brought them to him. They sit on a shelf wait ing for inspiration to hit. His work room walls are covered with sketches for work he hopes to create. He has collectors around the country await ing those creations. And that little boy from Duson is still watching, listening, experimenting and wondering where his art will take him next.

PHOTO CREDIT: MIKE SMITH COURTESY OF THE ARTHUR ROGER GALLERY

Ozone Songwriter Festival on the Northshore 2022 | November 3–6

The 5th Annual Ozone Songwriter Festival re turns with a free celebration of music featuring local, regional and national songwriters of all styles. The festival highlights the original music by both amateur and professional songwrit ers, giving opportunities to perform, network and grow in their craft. The full schedule of performers and show times, plus festival map with stage locations, is available at ozonemu sic.org. Multiple locations in Mandeville and Slidell.

Animals in Art Exhibit Friday, Nov. 4, 6–9 p.m.

Join the Giddy Up and Far Horizons Collective for an evening filled with live music, local food, artisan booths and a gallery exhibit featuring local artists pieces involving animals. 82286 and 82292 Hwy. 25, Folsom.

Abita Fall Fest 2022 | November 4–5

Abita Brewing Company invites you to a fun family event with live music on two stages, food and drinks and the Kid Zone with lots of activities and entertainment. Chairs and blan kets are welcome. Don’t miss Abita Fall Fest After Dark on Friday night featuring music by Rebirth Brass Band, Flow Tribe and Brass hearts Brass Band. For the complete sched ule and tickets visit abitafallfest.com. Tickets are available as single-day, two-day and VIP

passes. Kids under 10 are free. 22044 Main St.,Abita Springs, 773-8539.

Friday Nites on the Square Concert Se ries: Tyler Kinchen & The Right Pieces Friday, Nov. 4, 5:30–8:30 p.m.

Bring your lawn chairs and dancing shoes, but no ice chests. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from local food trucks and vendors. The concert is free and open to the public. 2022 event proceeds will benefit The Terra Bella Institute and the 2022 partner charity, the Wounded War Heroes. 111 Terra Bella Blvd., Covington, 871-7171. terrabel lavillage.com/news-events

Covington Art Market: Art Under the Oaks Nov. 5 and Dec. 3, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Covington Art Market is a great opportunity for fine artists seeking a venue to sell their artwork. Painters, photographers, mixed me dia artists, illustrators, potters, sculptors and more are all encouraged to participate. STAA Artist Membership is required to participate. Parking is free throughout the walkable dis trict, and admission is free. Old Covington Courthouse, 510 E. Boston St., Covington, 892-8650, sttammany.art/arts-market

Men Who Cook | Sunday, Nov. 6, 4–7 p.m. Local “celebrities” (community leaders) team up with local restaurants to see who can cre ate the best dish, all while raising money for Hope House! Men Who Cook is the primary annual fundraiser for Children’s Advocacy Center –Hope House, a local nonprofit that provides hope, healing and justice for victims of child abuse on the Northshore. Cost: $80 for individuals / $150 for couples. Rooftop of the Justice Center parking garage, Covington, support.cachopehouse.org/event/2022-menwho-cook-tickets/e428050

Festival of the Lake presented by Our Lady of the Lake, Mandeville November 11–13

Founded in 1982, the annual fundraising event features food from local restaurants and Our Lady of the Lake parishioners, live music, rides, games and inflatables, school perfor mances, a car show, a craft beer competi tion, the Festival Race and Fun Run and Battle of the Bands. Admission is free; tickets for games, food and beverages are available in advance or at the gate. Visit the church’s web site for entry information and details on each event at festivalofthelake.com. 312 Lafitte St., Mandeville, 626-3144

presented by

38th Annual Christmas Extravaganza Arts & Crafts Expo | December 2–4, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Some 400 vendors from a multi-state area have anything you will want to fill your Christmas list with unique products made by artists and craftspersons. Mediums include woodwork, original art, jewelry, leather crafts, clothing, metal art, candles, stained glass, floral, furniture, home decor, gifts and more. Enjoy great Louisiana & Southern dishes, including hot homemade fudge, glazed nuts and Emma’s pralines. The children’s village has jumps and rides, and Santa will be there for holiday pictures.Admission at the gate is $5 for persons age 13 and up, free for kids 12 and under. St. Tam many Parish Fairgrounds, 1301 N Columbia St., Covington, 966-7863, steinhauerproductions.com

Covington Three Rivers Art Festival November 12–13, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Stroll the city’s Cultural Arts District and shop at more than 200 artist tents lining both sides of Columbia Street. You’ll find original art works by artists from across the United States who work in all kinds of media: paintings and drawings, photography, ceramics, sculptures and kinetic art as well as functional pottery, fine jewelry, handmade clothing and accesso ries and more. Admission is free. 200 to 600 blocks of Columbia Street, Covington, 7897183, facebook.com/Threeriversart

Dew Drop Jazz Hall Concert: Charlie & The Tropicales Saturday, Nov. 12, 6:30 p.m.

New Orleans-based trombonist Charlie Hal loran brings the sounds of 1950s Trinidad and the French Caribbean to stage with his hot new band, Charlie & The Tropicales. Hear scorching calypsos and West Indies bigu ines, all relevant to New Orleans’ connection to its Caribbean roots. Admission is $10 for adults, free for students and children. A lim ited amount of seating is available inside. Those who prefer to socialize while they listen are welcome to bring a lawn chair and enjoy the show outdoors under live oaks and stars. Beverage and home-cooked food by the First Free Mission Baptist Church will be available for purchase. Doors open at 6 p.m. 430 La marque St., Mandeville, dewdropjazzhall.com

Pelican Park Jeep Jamboree Saturday, Nov. 12, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

There will be Jeep activities, kids’ batterypowered Jeep Obstacle Course--kids pro vide their own battery powered vehicle--Jeep contests, sound contests, food trucks, indoor food court, vendors and awards. If you have a show Jeep and would like to register, Pelican Park has Outdoor Show with paved parking and indoor premier show parking. The event is free to the public to view. Register at pelican park.com. Pelican Park, 63350 Pelican Drive, Mandeville, 626-7997

Unleashed! Rescue Me Gala for Northshore Humane Society Saturday, Nov. 12, 7–11 p.m. You do not want to miss out on this fun, yacht-themed evening benefiting the home less animals of Northshore Humane Society. Guests will revel in a sailing-themed party with an action-packed evening featuring the area’s finest restaurants, cocktails, live music by Four Unplugged, silent and live auctions, wine collectors’ cork pull and more. Sponsor ships and reserved tables are available with advance purchase through Susie Kaznow itz. Individual tickets are $125. Pontchartrain Yacht Club, 140 Jackson Ave., Mandeville, 892-7387, https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ unleashed-rescue-me-gala-2022-northshorehumane-society-tickets-395906074727

A Tribute to Elvis Louisiana Bayou King Festival | November 17–20

Enjoy four days of non-stop entertainment!

Watch eight world-class Elvis Tribute Art ists recreate 11 full Elvis concerts, a Gospel and inspirational performance, a tribute to the movie years, the 1968 “Leather Special”, 1970 Las Vegas concerts, the Louisiana Hay ride, and other productions and recreations of Elvis’ electrifying concerts and performances.

The Elvis Tribute Contest will feature 10 – 20 contestants, all backed by a 16-piece band, The King Creole Orchestra. Ticket prices vary between $25-$400; single-day and multi-day passes are available. Fuhrmann Auditorium , 128 W. 23rd Ave., Covington, 892-1873. loui sianabayoukingfest.com

The Lobby Lounge 2022 Concert Series: Amanda Shaw

Thursday, Nov. 17, 7–9 p.m.

The Harbor Center in Slidell presents the 2022 “Up Close and Musical” concert series with Amanda Shaw at The Lobby Lounge. The Louisiana-raised musician has carved out her place in Cajun culture, becoming one of the most recognizable brands in Louisiana music.

Admission is $20-$100, in advance only at eventbrite.com/e/amanda-shaw-live-at-thelobby-lounge-tickets-244614076287

The Harbor Center, 100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell, 781-3650, harborcenter.org

Honey Island Swamp Fest 2022

November 18–19, Friday 5–11 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

Join the Town of Pearl River and Deep South Entertainment for the Honey Island Swamp Fest. The music festival features a Monster Truck show and rides, mechanical bull and mini bike races, rat ride and a car exhibit and an arts and crafts area. Admission is $20 for ages 13 and up, free for kids 12 and under. This is a rain-or-shine event, so wear your boots and bring your chairs and canopies. 39576 Pump Slough Road, Pearl River, face book.com/honeyislandswampfest/

Just Between Friends Northshore Kids’ Consignment Sale

November 18–19, 9 a.m.–7 p.m.

Just Between Friends Northshore invites moms, dads and expecting parents (or grands!) to a holiday kids’ consignment sale featuring gifts, holiday clothing (Christmas/Ha nukkah and Mardi Gras), toys, books and lots of baby gear and equipment, all at 50-90% of retail prices, both new items and gently used items, all sold by local families. Visit north shore.jbfsale.com for more info or to register to consign or shop. Admission is $3 at the door or free when you register for your admis sion pass. The Castine Center, 63350 Pelican Drive, Mandeville, 377-9872.

Third Sunday Concert at Christ Episcopal Sundays, Nov. 20 & Dec 18, 5 p.m. Now in its 32nd year, the Third Sunday Con cert Series is an outreach of Christ Episcopal Church. The one-hour concerts are free and open to the public and are followed by a wine and hors d’oeuvres reception in the Parish

Hall. Performances begin at 5 p.m. in the main church building. Nov. 20: The Mid-City Aces; Dec. 18: Louisiana Christmas Brass. Christ Episcopal Church, 120 S. New Hampshire St., Covington, 892-3177, christchurch covington.com/concert_series

Tammany Turkey Trot | Thursday, Nov. 24, 8 a.m.

The Tammany Turkey Trot takes to the streets of Covington again on Thanksgiving morning. Ready to experience the history of downtown Covington or show it off to your visiting family and friends? Here’s your chance to #EarnYourTurkey! The 5K Run/Walk, $40. The 5 Mile Run/ Walk, $45. Both races start at 8 a.m. 701 N Columbia St., Covington, (504) 952-2899, tammanyturkeytrot.com

Olde Towne Christmas Market 2022

November 26–27, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Get a jump on your holiday shopping at the 11th Annual Olde Towne Christmas Market! Browse beautiful antique shops on First Street, eat some delicious food, and shop the local art, craft, and retail vendors with unique items ideal for gifting. First and Erlanger Streets in Olde Towne Slidell, 710-8323, facebook.com/events/1014411292557732

Northlake Performing Arts Society Chorus Concerts: “O Won drous Night”

December 2 & 4, Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday 3 p.m.

The Northlake Performing Arts Society was founded in 1995 to estab lish a venue for fine choral arts performance. Over the years, the NPAS Chorus has developed into an organization known for musical excellence and a high level of professionalism by singers from a wide range of pro fessions, experience, musical training and ages, which blend together in a singular passion for beautiful music. Visit npassingers.org for tickets. Christ Episicopal School, 80 Christwood Blvd., Covington, 792-1392.

Christmas Under the Stars | December 2, 3, 9 & 10, 6–9 p.m. A celebration of twinkling lights, festive decorations, life-size Christmas cottages and other family fun. Admission to all displays and activities is free. Griffith Park, 333 Erlanger St., Slidell, 646-4375, myslidell.com

Sips of the Season Stroll 2022 | Friday, Dec. 2, 5–9 p.m. Grab your friends and join in the Christmas merriment as you stroll Girod Street at dusk, stopping into the brightly decorated shops and restau rants. Strollers purchase mugs for $25* (cash or check only), which is your admission and souvenir to keep, to be filled at each stop, along with a card listing businesses dispensing the holiday-themed libations. Only 1,450 mugs will be sold. Mugs available for purchase at three locations in Old Mandeville only (no online sales): Das Schulerhaus Gift Gallery & Christmas Boutique, Cameo Boutique and The Book and the Bean, 235 Girod St. Old Mandeville, 727-7778, oldmandevillebusiness.org

Deck the Rails at Covington Trailhead Saturday, Dec. 3, starting at 5 p.m.

Enjoy Christmas Caroling by the Northlake Performing Arts Society cho rale, Christmas craft activities, a visit from Santa Claus and individually wrapped holiday treats, courtesy of the Kiwanis Club. All activities are free and open to the public. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and be sure to bring your camera for pictures with Santa! Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St., Covington, 892-1873, covla.com

Merry Madisonville 2022 | Saturday, Dec. 3, 1 p.m. Ring in the holiday season with the 14th-annual Merry Madisonville at Madisonville’s ballpark and playground. A parade kicks off a day of fun for the entire family, including light displays, entertainment by local schools, hot cocoa and more! Bring your camera for pictures with Santa. 1007 Pine St., Madison ville, 845-7311, townofmadisonville.org.

Winter on the Water Santa Street & Boat Parade Saturday, Dec. 3, 4 p.m.

Kick off the holidays with a celebration of winter and Christmas on the Mandeville lakefront, beginning with the Santa Street Parade at 4 p.m. The parade starts at Pontchartrain Yacht Club and rolls to the gazebo. A boat parade follows at 5:30 p.m. There will be live music, face painting, a bell chorus, Santa Claus, and lighting of the beautiful live oaks. Admission is free. 2623 Lakeshore Dr., Mandeville, 624-3147, cityofmandeville.com >>

HOURS OF

History and Holly 2022 Tour of Homes | Sunday, Dec. 4, 2–5 p.m. Walk the pedestrian-friendly route, touring festively adorned homes, sip ping wine (provided) and enjoying the sounds of the season from the strolling carolers. Tickets are limited. Buy your wristbands at Southern Hotel or Braswell Drugs, then simply start at any home on the tour. On event day, exchange your online ticket for a required wristband at Fuhrmann Auditorium. 317 N. Jefferson Ave., Covington, 892-1873, Cov ingtonHeritageFoundation.com

Santa on Trails 5K Run/Walk | Sunday, Dec. 4, 9 a.m. Run/walk this 5K in a Santa suit and bring a toy for the children of the New Orleans Mission shelter. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m. All ages welcome, and all participants will get a Santa beard, a hat and a cool tshirt, food and refreshments from the New Orleans Mission, a handmade medal and lots of hugs and smiles. Runners must bring their own water bottles. Participants must bring a new, unwrapped toy for the children at the shelter. Free for spectators (+$3 park entry fee); $40 entry fee ($45 after Nov. 14). Fontainebleau State Park, 62883 Hwy. 1089, Mandev ille, (504) 390-8807, q50races.com/2018/12/02/q50-races-santa-ontrails-12142019/

Covington’s 12 Days of Christmas Lighted Displays 2022 Dec. 9–Jan. 6

From a partridge in a pear tree to 12 drummers drumming, downtown Covington will be aglow with holiday images this December. Twelve light ed silhouettes depicting larger-than-life images from the traditional Old English Christmas carol, 12 Days of Christmas, are exhibited at various locales in the downtown historic district. The public can stroll through the city to view familiar images from the well-known Christmas carol. The images will be illuminated seven days a week from dusk to dawn. Down town Covington, 892-1873, covla.com

Breakfast with Santa | Saturday, Dec. 10, 9–11 a.m. Pelican Park invites you to make this holiday season special for your child (ages 2-10 years old) by participating in their Breakfast with Santa. Each child will be served breakfast by Liz’s Where Y’at Diner’s fun elves. Chil dren can also visit multiple craft and game stations, write and decorate a letter to Santa, take a picture with Santa and tell him their wishes! Children must be registered to attend; chairs fill up fast so make sure to register early. Free for registered children ages 2-10, $5 per adult.. The Castine Center, 63350 Pelican Blvd., Mandeville, 626-7997, pelicanpark.com

Christmas Past Festival | Saturday, Dec. 10, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. As one of the Northshore’s most popular holiday events, the Christmas Past Festival is a fantastic way to get the whole family in the holiday spirit while supporting local businesses. The event features 75 artists, crafts people and merchants from across the Greater New Orleans area, as well as a children’s arts and crafts area, local food vendors and singing/roam ing holiday characters. Admission is free, and attendees are encouraged to get in the holiday spirit – costumes and holiday attire add to the festive atmosphere! Old Mandeville, 373-5271, oldmandevillebusiness.org

Folsom Horse & Wagon Christmas Parade Saturday, Dec. 10, 1 p.m. Bring the entire family to the heart of St. Tammany’s horse country as Santa arrives in a horse-drawn wagon. Parade-goers will enjoy the An tique Tractor Exhibit and contests for Most Original Wagon, Best Dressed Horse & Rider, caroling and, of course, Santa Claus! Folsom, 237-5608, facebook.com/folsomchristmasparade

SantaPaws Pics | Saturday, Dec. 10, 1 p.m.

Santa will visit with your furry family member and take a picture with your whole family, too. Find more info about the free event at pelicanpark. com. Pelican Park’s Landing Pavillion, 63350 Pelican Blvd., Mandeville, 626-7997

Sugar Plum Holiday Market

Saturday, Dec. 10, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

More than 300 shoppers are expected to at tend and peruse 20 Northshore small busi ness vendors with unique gifts and treasures. The popular “Storytime and Cookies with Mrs. Claus” will return to entertain children as fami lies shop. Tickets are $10 for VIP and $5 for general admission. The Castine Center, 63350 Pelican Dr., Mandeville, 237-4067, jlgc.net/ sugar-plum-market

Enchanted Brunch at La Carreta Sunday, Dec. 11, 11 a.m.

Come to La Carreta in Mandeville for a magical brunch with the Frozen sisters & their snowy friend. Children will receive a drink and meal of their choosing from the kid’s menu and can participate in an interactive meet and greet with Elsa, Anna and Olaf. Adults will receive a drink and the choice of a taco, enchilada or flauta dinner. Service gratuity will be included. Purchase tickets at shop1200west.com/ enchanted-brunch 1200 West Causeway Ap proach, Mandeville, (504) 885-0202

Holiday Concert with Northshore Community Orchestra Saturday, Dec. 17, 6 p.m.

Seating is available on a first-come, firstseated basis. Admission is free, but dona tions to support the Northshore Community Orchestra are appreciated.The Northshore Community Orchestra (formerly the Slidell Youth & Community Orchestra) is the only symphony orchestra in St. Tammany Parish in which both youths and adults can make learn ing and performing music a lifelong endeavor. Slidell Municipal Auditorium, 2056 Second St., Slidell, 646-4375, northshoreorchestra.org Be Like Ashlie Gala Saturday, Sept. 24, 7-10pm. Please join us at the Cohesive Unit’s Inaugural Fundraising evet, in partnership with the Black Tie Foundation, to raise funds for the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center by attending the “Be Like Ashlie” Gala! Tickets are $100 per person and must be purchased in advance. They in clude a night of delicious food, open bar, and music! There will also be a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, and other fun games. Cocktail at tire is encouraged. The Fleur De Lis Event Cen ter, Mandeville, us.givergy.com/BeLikeAshlie

Mandeville Trailhead Holiday Market

Saturday, Dec. 17, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

The Mandeville Trailhead Community Market, the weekly market offering produce, prepared goods, artisan crafts and live music, expands for the holidays to give shoppers extra time to find that perfect handmade gift. The event will include face painting, pictures with Santa Claus and live music. Free and open to the public. Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville, 624-3147, experiencemandeville.org

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La Toussaint Lighting of the Graves

BY SANDRA SCALISE JUNEAU

bscured within wind ing bayous, sheltered by moss-laden pines and nestled with palmetto fronds, centuries-old cemeteries enlace Lake Pontchartrain’s northern shores. Within these cherished places of remembrance, families gather on All Saints Day for La Toussaint, les Lumieres du Morte or the Lighting of the Graves.

For centuries, Nov. 1 has served as a special day of prayer and remembrance for families in our Northshore commu nities. The observance’s origins are

shrouded in mystery, but La Toussaint stands as a testament to the timelessness of our region’s earliest traditions.

La Toussaint is a blending of cultures. It combines the ancient Mayan prac tice of Les Lumieres des Mort—Lights of the Dead—with the French-Catholic custom of honoring ancestors on All Saints Day when families offer flowers, candles and prayers in reverent homage to their deceased.

Edolia Barros, who lives in Slidell near Bayou Lacombe, has family members interred in both the Dubisson and Morgan Cemeteries, “going back, at

least 7 or 8 generations.”

“In our family, the men begin cleaning the gardens and the graves during the second week in October. On the day of the Lighting, families bring flowers and candles as we gather for the Blessing in remembrance of our deceased loved ones,” she said. “This is how we teach our younger generations to honor our deceased ancestors. The annual Blessing of the Graves continues, always as a joyful celebration of their lives.”

Some scholars believe the tradition had been celebrated in Lacombe by Native American dwellers centuries before

French settlers arrived in the early 18th century. Tom Aicklen, a histori an, author and lecturer who has stud ied First American cultures, tells of an ancient migration that may have brought the tradition to our shores.

“Legend tells of a migration 1,200 years ago of the followers of the Mayan Rain God Cha’ac from Yucatan to Louisiana, bringing with them the advanced culture and religious traditions of the Maya Yucatan. Tribesmen would gather in the dark forest on a certain night to light ritual bonfires to guide the spirits of departed ancestors back to earth,” he said.

PHOTO CREDITS: JOANIE JOHNSTON

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Aicklen says archaeological and scientific evidence confirm the theory and these tribal people ultimately became the Southeastern temple mound builders and the Chacta (Choctaw).

The ministry of Catholic Priest Père Adrien Rouquette likely served to combine these traditions. A child of Creole-French heritage, Rouquette visited family in Lacombe and became familiar with the Choctaw language and customs. After study ing law in France, Rouquette returned to Louisiana in 1859 as an ordained priest, the first native-born Louisiana Creole to do so. He spent 27 years living among the Choctaw as a mission ary and became known affectionately as Chahta-Ima, which means “like a Choctaw.”

Many believe Rouquette was the first white man allowed to view the Choctaw’s secret ceremony for the Feast of the Dead. According to the book Pere Rouquette Day Lacombe, during the Feast for the Dead, Choctaw would disperse into the woods at sunset and build small fires. Special lamenta tions and chanting continued until midnight. Then, the group returned from the woods for a banquet and ritual dances.

Rouquette incorporated Choctaw traditions into his faith, and along the way, the Feast of the Dead became known as Les Toussaints les Lumieres du Morte. The bonfires became candles, and the chanting became Catholic prayers.

“It was always a beautiful thing,” said Laura Balancier Narcisse. “The priest came to bless the graves. I remember that we would sing songs, and the gathering would go on into the night. We

decorated the graves with paper flow ers. My grandmother would make wreaths and crosses with silk and paper flowers. She would melt a pot of wax on the stove and dip in the flowers to coat them. If you went to the cemetery months later, those flowers still looked real with all their colors still showing!”

In years past, gatherings usually includ ed hampers of food to sustain fami lies through a full day of prayer and remembrance. In recent years, Narcisse said families gather after the Blessings in nearby homes, and everyone brings food to share.

As a child, Narcisse remembers hear ing about traveling to the cemeteries by boat. “Before there were motorized vehicles or even reliable roads, the funeral processions traveled by skiffs and pirogues through the bayous to the cemeteries. Losing your loved ones, there was the sacred comfort of always having a priest there to lead the prayers. Our cemeteries are truly Holy Ground,” she said.

Achieve Your Health Goals with Ochsner 65 Plus

In Ochsner’s ongoing effort to inspire healthier lives and stronger communities, as well as further support an aging patient population, Ochsner Health opened its first of many Ochsner 65 Plus Clinics in Covington in May.

In order to provide customized healthcare options for patients 65 and older, this premier healthcare resource is uniquely designed with this population in mind. It includes a primary care clinic, strength, agility and balance training area as well as a community center for socializing, all in a comfortable, safe and caring environment.

Along with specialized physicians, each patient has a team around them that provides customized care based on their personal goals and preferences. The team includes a primary care doctor, social worker, dietitian, health coach, fit ness instructor and more.

Dr. Kerry-Ann Miller is a geriatric fellowship-trained physician at the Ochsner 65 Plus clinic located on Hwy. 190 in Covington. She brings her passion for this patient population into the work she does every day in Covington and under stands their unique needs.

“I find it to be an honor and privilege to care for the aging population, especially when I’m able to do a great job at managing their chronic health issues, and thereby allowing them to age well, and enjoy their golden years,” said Dr. KerryAnn Miller, geriatric fellowship-trained Ochsner 65 Plus physician.

At Ochsner 65 Plus, visits are typically longer than traditional primary care visits, allowing patients to schedule physician appointments for up to an hour. Pa tients and their care teams get to know one another, and family or caregivers are welcome.

The 65 Plus model offers comprehensive primary care including immunizations, lab work, infusions, balance services and screenings along with mental health, cognitive behavioral therapy and emotional support, health coaching, nutrition support and medication education and management.

Dr. Miller explains the importance of this care model and why she is so passion

ate about this population, “This type of care requires time and special care, and a few other specialties and experts. From the longer appointment times to pouring over each medical issue and getting to know the patients, to the specialists such as the nutritionist, our wonderful physi cal therapist and health coach, the pharmacist and social worker – this practice model allows me to do just that. All these specialists offer unique and invaluable input to help address every aspect of the areas that will allow our patients to continue to age well and in excellent health.”

The 65 Plus physicians have a smaller panel of patients so they can devote extra time and attention to address ing all issues, while helping to keep people as happy and healthy as possible. The clinic also has a licensed clinic so cial worker trained in behavioral therapy, because mental health and physical health go hand in hand.

Patients can also take advantage of wellness classes and social events that take place in the community room at the clinic. Patients can engage in social activities like arts and crafts, card games, chair yoga, tai chi, healthy cook ing demonstrations, and continuing education. All of which help to combat the problem of social isolation and loneli ness, while fostering an active and rich social life; such interactions are even more important as we continue to make progress against the trauma imposed by the Co vid-19 pandemic.

Ochsner 65 Plus is a piece of a larger initiative to improve the health of Louisiana’s citizens by 2030. The needs of patients change across the different stages of their lives, and Ochsner is dedicated to adapting to meet those changing needs.

Ochsner 65 Plus accepts traditional Medicare, along with Medicare Advantage plans offered by Ochsner Health Plan, Humana, Peoples Health and Blue Cross. Guided tours are available. Call 504-703-7587 to schedule an appointment or go to ochsner.org/65plus to learn more.

HOLIDAY DECOR & DESIGN

HOMEPLACE

BY POKI HAMPTON

When Dona and Kevin Kiesel moved their family to Beau Chene 28 years ago, the couple immediately began remodeling their new home.

“That year, we only put up a tree with white lights, nothing else,” Kiesel said.

Since then, a lot has changed. The family looks for ways to incorporate their faiths into their holiday decor and observances.

“We are a blended family with relatives who are of the Jewish faith, and we love the holidays. Over the years, our holiday decorations have morphed into a combination of both Hanukkah and Christmas,” Kiesel said.

The Kiesel’s decor this year is courtesy of Dona’s friend Leslie Boudreaux, whose out-of-the-box approach borrows heav ily from nature.

“The great thing about Leslie is that she gathered plants, twigs and branches from the sides of the road and from my backyard and made them into something wonderful,” Kiesel’s said.

On the front porch, Boudreaux filled large antique urns with birch logs, pine boughs, metal spheres and large sugar pine cones. Smaller white urns filled with white poinsettias, holi day greenery and more sugar pine cones sit nearby.

“I use sugar pine cones because they are large enough to show up in big arrangements, and they are plentiful,” Boudreaux said. >>

The antique, four-paned door is embellished with a holiday wreath, greenery, iridescent French blue bows and more pine cones. The Bevolo Gas and Electric gas lanterns are also adorned with greenery and the same blue bows.

In the entrance hall, an antique Florentine chest is topped with a sunburst mirror wrapped in greenery. One of Leslie’s original landscape acrylic paintings and mounted Black Forest Roe deer antlers hang over the chest. The stair rail is decorated with a fresh pineapple, variegated pittosporum, greenery and lemons. More greenery, sugar pine cones and blue ribbon lead up to the second floor.

In the dining room, an antique mirror is decorated with pine boughs and a wreath while the painted buffet is topped with an antique French bowl filled with Christmas balls, pine cones and greenery. The table is set with the family’s heirloom china and crystal. Greenery and bows adorn two antique candelabra stands and a vintage chandelier.

The neutral tones of the living room are accented by the blue spruce tree decorated with mercury glass and crystal ornaments, white doves, glass icicles, blue leaves, iced branches and iridescent ribbon.

“I love how Leslie carried the blue decorations and greenery throughout the downstairs,” Dona said. “She was able to use what nature has given us along with our family’s collection of antiques and heirlooms to create a truly beautiful holiday environment for our family to enjoy.”

There’s an old adage that says, “Choose a job you love and you will never work a day in your life.”

While the authorship of the quote continues to spark debate, the advice remains sound. A food lover might consider becoming a chef. A music lover might pursue a career as a musician. But what happens when the two great loves in your life are an obsessive compulsion for lettering and, well…being sarcastic?

For Lisa Pevey, the answer was simple. You become Hammond’s first and only sarcastic lettering artist.

WERE YOU ALWAYS A DOODLER? IS THAT THE CORRECT TERMINOLOGY*?

I used to doodle a lot, but most of the stuff on my Instagram page (@ nolalettering) started off as calligraphy or hand lettering. It’s mostly just hand lettering now.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN LETTERING?

About three years ago is when I really started focusing on hand lettering. I was doing mostly pointed pen calligraphy or brush calligraphy before I transitioned almost completely into hand lettering.

AND THE SARCASM? WHEN DID THAT BECOME A PART OF ALL THIS? (Laughing) When I first started out, I didn’t know what to letter. A lot of people were doing motivational quotes – ‘you got this’ or ‘you can do this’ - and it really just wasn’t me. So I was look ing around Instagram and there were these great lettering challenges that people put together every month. One

of them was called ‘Sassy and Classy Lettering.’ It’s all sarcastic quotes and funny quotes. So I started practicing with those. And people really seemed to like it because my following started to grow. From there I created my own challenge called the ‘Sarcastic Lettering Challenge’ that I do with a co-host on Instagram. So that’s kind of what we do every month now.

IS THE SARCASM MORE OF A NATURE OR NURTURE THING?

Normally, when I’m talking to people, I’m not that sarcastic. But in my mind, I’m pretty sarcastic. So lettering was a good way to get that out of my head and onto paper (laughing). I also bounce a lot of ideas off my husband, Seth (Pevey). He writes Louisianabased mystery novels, so he helps me out when I’m trying to be creative with words and phrasings. I’m much more of an academic writer, which tends to get a little boring. So it’s really a good partnership.

YOU’VE JUST PASSED 69,000 FOLLOW ERS ON INSTAGRAM. ARE YOU SURPRISED BY THE REACTION YOU’RE GETTING?

Yeah, it’s pretty crazy. Mostly because it had been growing slowly but consistent ly for years. And I was stuck in the 20K’s for quite a while. Then I started doing this hand lettering series on the alpha bet. I was doing a letter a week, and it just took off. It was very unexpected. I don’t really know what happened. There was one post that I guess the Instagram algorithm just really liked and so it kept getting shared and it just grew into its current crazy.

*Lettering Terminology

DOODLING: Often considered an act of scrawling or sketch ing aimlessly, doodling possibly derives from the word dawdle, meaning to waste time.

POINTED PEN CALLIGRAPHY: Pointed pen refers to the tool or pen used to write. It consists of a holder with a nib attached and is used to create delicate, fine lines you cannot get using a brush or traditional calligraphy pen.

BRUSH PEN CALLIGRAPHY: A pen that’s equipped with a flex ible brush tip instead of the more common flat, chiseled tip found on regular calligraphy pens. The calligrapher can adjust the size of the lettering strokes by the amount of force applied or by the angle used when writing.

HAND LETTERING: A style that focuses on the hand drawing or illus tration of each specific letter and how it fits into an overall composition.

“There was one post that I guess the Instagram algorithm just really liked and so it kept getting shared and it just grew into its current crazy.”

WHAT’S BEEN THE MOST SURPRISING THING ABOUT THE JOURNEY SO FAR?

The fact that there are people who want to see my work is still pretty surprising to me. It started as just me doing my own thing and wanting to learn how to letter. That’s actually the reason I started the Instagram account -- it was a way of tracking my progress. I never really expected anything to come of it. The fact that it took off was very unexpected.

YOU’VE STARTED OFFERING ONLINE CLASSES IN HAND LETTERING. HOW IS THAT GOING?

I do it with my co-host. Her name is Helen, and she’s based in the UK. Together, we do the ‘Lessons in Lettering’ course. We are going into our third season now, and next year we are planning to revamp it to make it even better.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE OR 10 YEARS?

IS THIS SOMETHING YOU THINK YOU WILL STILL BE DOING?

I hope so. I do have a day job in data analysis, so this is a very different thing from that. I originally started lettering because I was doing my dissertation (on Sexual Health Promotion Among International Students at Tulane), and I really didn’t want to be

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doing my dissertation at all. So I was just trying to find some productive way to procrastinate, and I stumbled across letter ing. It’s really fun for me. It’s such a great stress relief and good for my mental health. So I’m hoping to still be doing this in 10 years. But I would like to transition it from more than just a hobby into being a full-fledged business…doing murals, commissioned pieces, logos, local projects...those kinds of things. A lot of my current following is international, so I’m really just trying to get more involved in the local scene.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THE NOVICE DOODLER WHO WANTS TO BRUSH UP ON THEIR LETTERING SKILLS?

OR THE AMATEUR SARCASTIC LETTERING ARTIST GETTING READY TO TACKLE THEIR ANNUAL HOLIDAY GREETING CARD LIST?

Practice and patience. I get a lot of people asking me what’s the fastest way to become a great letterer, and there really is no shortcut to it. It’s just daily practice. When I started off, I did lettering every day. It was a challenge to myself, and it forced me to practice. It took two years before I really started to get any kind of a following. So it is definitely a lot of patience, practice and perseverance. And really, you just need to enjoy lettering for what it is. If you like making letters and compositions, then everything will come naturally. So don’t give up. And look online for inspiration. It doesn’t all have to come from your own head. There are plenty of good ideas out there to borrow from. It will make your life a little easier.

AND WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR THOSE THAT JUST WANT TO BRUSH UP ON THEIR SARCASM SKILLS?

(Laughing) There are a lot of great sarcastic Instagram accounts out there too, so definitely search around and check some out. You won’t regret it.

Find Support to Exceed Your Limits at Krewe Fitness Covington

by Kiyomi Appleton Gaines

Krewe Fitness Covington focuses as much on the “krewe” aspect of its name as on the “fitness.” Owner Kyle Roberts stresses that building a sup portive community to help people do hard things and gain confidence is at the core of why he started the gym. It’s also what continues to motivate him as a trainer. “A gym that thrives is a gym people want,” he said. “When you see somebody doing something they were afraid to try, you let your guard down. When you come in here, we all come to the same point of trying to make our selves better.”

Roberts has always been active and knows firsthand the transformative effects moving the body has on the mind. As a small child with a speech impediment, he was shy and often felt he didn’t fit in. He first found his place through sports, particularly football, and the drive to become a better ath lete propelled him into the gym. “It was my brother and his high school best friend that first brought me to a gym. When I walked in, I still remember the color, that pale teal upholstery on the bench. The sound of the cast iron plates hitting together. I still remember the smell. I remember the sounds, and I fell in love with it. I knew this is what I had to do. I didn’t know I was going to have a career in it. [But] I wanted to be part of it.”

He laughs, recalling, “I was a little

creepy kid in the gym. I stood there and watched [people] train. I was very ner vous about asking questions or trying to jump into something. I didn’t have a lot of friends. I didn’t know how to talk to people. I was still learning [to do that] even though I was 12 or 13 years old. I watched and would try to draw the machines; I would try to draw what they were doing. Finally, these two gentlemen were like, ‘What are you doing?’ I was nervous. They looked at my book and said, ‘You’ve been here for a month, and you haven’t touched anything.’ I said, ‘Yes, I don’t know what I’m doing. I don’t want to mess anything up.’ They took me under their wing, allowed me to walk with them, watch them, do a few exercises. They let me train with them.”

When an injury left him paralyzed, football was no longer an option. But he knew staying active was the best way to manage the stress of adjusting both to using a wheelchair and being a young college student. “Football was

PHOTO CREDITS: PAIGE HENDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY

THE MORE YOU ARE INVOLVED; THE MORE WE CAN EVOLVE.

always my outlet for things because I internalized everything. Losing things that made me who I was, my legs made me who I was, and not having that, I needed that outlet. So, I went to the gym,” he said. “Again, I was nervous. I didn’t know what to do. Because I didn’t know anybody who was in a wheelchair and working out. I started paying attention to when there weren’t a lot of people in the gym. That’s when I would go. I would transfer on benches, try to do the movement, try to do the workout, and try to figure out how can I do it being in a wheelchair and not hav ing balance.”

Roberts has been training and learning about fitness for almost 20 years. En couraged by a Southeastern University rec center administrator, he became a professional weightlifter. Soon, other gym-goers were asking him for training advice. That led him to become a certi fied trainer. “A couple of trainers were like, ‘Hey, man, you want to train me?’ That was crazy. Trainers wanted me to train them. I said I’m gonna have my own gym someday. I never forgot it, but always put it on the back burner. I wanted to focus on developing my style or go after bodybuilding. It was an afterthought. I turned pro in body building, and I never went full-time with training, coaching and consulting. [But] I wanted to see where this could go... I kept talking about it. I’d hear stories about gyms, what was going on with the members, how the owners didn’t care anymore. It irritated me, and I’d talk about it with my wife or my dad. They both in the same week were like, ‘You need to stop talking about it be cause you’re never gonna do it if you don’t,’” he said.

Roberts achieved his dream of having his own gym this summer. “I started buying equipment and putting it in stor age. I did this for three years. I took my time. I didn’t tell anybody. Then on Aug. 29, opened the doors,” he said.

When people come in, “I’m wheeling over with open arms. If you want to walk around, walk around. You want to jump on a few machines, jump on a few machines. Here’s the thing though, I’m gonna be right there with you. I’m

gonna tell you the story about why this gym was created, about every piece of equipment, where I found it, so what you experience is me. If somebody has physical limitations or they’re nervous or scared, they are accepted, the way those two guys accepted me when I didn’t know anything,” he said.

Roberts’ enthusiasm makes it im mediately obvious what makes him such a successful trainer. “Krewe just happened. My last day of competing, I was like, I’m gonna go full-time with coaching, training and consulting. I’ve never advertised, that’s the weird thing, I’m old school. Word started spread ing, ‘He’s taking on more clients,’ and then I’d get these calls or messages. Who am I to say no to somebody who reached out to me? It got crazy that so many people wanted somebody who was honest, loyal, and accountable, and I said, ‘Okay, I guess I’m gonna do my gym.’”

Roberts encourages anyone curious about fitness to stop by and talk to him or his team. “I know what it’s like to overcome limitations because some body was there to say you could do it. When you come in, and you don’t know anything about what we do, you don’t have to. I’m here. I will teach you,” he said.

Krewe Fitness Covington is located at 1037 Ronald Reagan Highway in Covington and online at www. KreweFitnessCovington.com.

Krewe Fitness | 1037 Ronald Reagan Highway, Covington, LA | krewefitnesscovington.com

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1.16 CT PEAR RUBY WITH 2.37 CT DIAMONDS NECKLACE, $8,900, $6,995 SALE PRICE.

1.75 CT TOTAL WEIGHT PEAR RUBY WITH 1.22 CT TOTAL WEIGHT DIAMOND EARRINGS, $6,900, $5,495 SALE PRICE. DELUCA’S FINE JEWELRY AND GIFTS, 892-2317.

2.33 CT CENTER PEAR DIAMOND SURROUNDED BY 2 CT WHITE DIAMONDS SET IN 14K WHITE GOLD. JOHNSON DIAMOND JEWELERS, 951-2089.

DOUBLE STRAND DIAMOND RIVERÉ NECKLACE, CAN BE WORN AS SINGLE STRAND, $55,000. BOUDREAUX’S JEWELERS, 626-1666.

14K WHITE GOLD ROUND AND BAGUETTE DIAMOND ETERNITY BAND, $9,750. LEE MICHAELS FINE JEWELRY, 504-832-0000.

DIAMOND CROSS PENDANT, $2,395. BOUDREAUX’S JEWELERS, 626-1666.

DAVID YURMAN THOROUGHBRED LOOP BRACELET WITH DIAMONDS, $1,750. LEE MICHAELS FINE JEWELRY, 504-832-0000.

Women’sJewelry

Complimenting THE HOSTESS

3 WICK GOLD DOME CANDLE IN SIBERIAN FIR. CORRINN FISHER INTERIORS, 888-1229.

LARGE BREAD CUTTING BOARD SET. THE LIFESTYLE STORE AT FRANCO’S, 792-0270.

6” MERCURY GLASS URN WITH LID, $27. DAPHNE BUTTERFLY HOME, 7780082.

BLITZEN SERVING BOARD. DECOEUR, 809-3244.

B’S KNEES NATURAL REEDS DIFFUSER WITH ESSENTIAL OIL- BASED FRAGRANCES IN MULTIPLE SCENTS, $45. REDOUX HOME & MARKET, 674-8811.

Holiday Market Sip & Shop FRANCO’S

to the Public Gifts, Home and Holiday Decor, Apparel, Children’s & Men’s Gifts

LEASH, $15.99.

VETERINARY

Streetside market

come true for

FURSACE HANDBAG DOG TOY, $16. NICHE

Men’s Gifts

OMEGA SEAMASTER DIVER 300M 007 NO TIME TO DIE EDITION IN TITANIUM. BOUDREAUX’S JEWELERS, 626-1666.

EXPERIENCE THE STRESSLESS COMFORT ZONE WITH GREAT LUMBAR SUPPORT, NECK SUPPORT AND BACK SUPPORT. DOERR FURNITURE, 900-2425.

WILLIAM HENRY KNIFE, $350. LEE MICHAELS FINE JEWELRY, 504-832-0000.

“SATURDAYS ARE FOR THE BOYS” FLAG. THE CHIFFAROBE, 710-2677.

PRE-LOVED LOUIS VUITTON BACKPACK. JOHNSON DIAMOND JEWELERS, 951-2089.

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER PROFESSIONAL IN 18K MOONSHINE GOLD. BOUDREAUX’S JEWELERS, 626-1666.

NOLA HIGHBALL GLASS. DECOEUR, 809-3244.

CALL ME OLD FASHIONED HAND TOWEL. DECOEUR, 809-3244.

LORELL 15”

CLASSIC BANKER’S LAMP, $98. THE OFFICE MARKET, 674-1875.

SERVICES:

Botox | Filler

Threads Chemical Peels

| PRF

Hair Removal & Skin Resurfacing

RICH BROWN VEGAN LEATHER WINE AND CHEESE TOTE. THE LIFESTYLE STORE AT FRANCO’S, 792-0270.

TUDOR BLACK BAY GMT, $4,175. LEE MICHAELS FINE JEWELRY, 504-832-0000.

SPECIAL OFFERS:

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WANT TO GIVE THE GIFT OF BEAUTY THIS CHRISTMAS? Join us at Franco's Holiday Market.

Gift Cards, Grab & Go Gift Bags, Exclusive Package Savings, Gift with Purchases

MEN’S CUBAN DIAMOND CHAIN NECKLACE & DIAMOND BRACELET. JOHNSON DIAMOND JEWELERS, 951-2089.

LARGE STONE HORSE HEAD SCULPTURE ON BRONZE STAND. GREIGE HOME INTERIORS, 875-7576.

For the Kids

MR. OKRA SELLS FRUITS AND VEGETABLES. PONTCHARTRAIN CONSERVANCY, HTTPS://SCIENCEFO ROURCOAST.ORG/ LIGHTHOUSE/GIFTSHOP/.

LULLABY SET NUTCRACKER CLARA DRESS, AVAILABLE IN SIZES 3M-6.

LULLABY SET NUTCRACKER BUBBLE, AVAILABLE IN SIZES 3M-3T. KIKI AND LOLLI, 900-2410.

SUGARBEE CHRISTMAS PAJAMAS AVAILABLE IN MULTIPLE STYLES AND SIZES. REDOUX HOME & MARKET, 674-8811.

GIVE THE GIFT OF EXPLORATION. CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ST.TAMMANY, 888-1555.

LORELL HIGH-BACK GAMING CHAIR, $259. THE OFFICE MARKET, 674-1875.

Dining Destination

Treat Yourself

A-TEAM DUO KIT - IMPROVE SKIN-TONE AND LUMINOSITY. NORTHSHORE REJUVENATION, 265-4544.

THE GETTING SKIN READY® PROGRAM TO HELP CLEANSE, EXFOLIATE AND TONE YOUR SKIN. REDISCOVER AESTHETICS, 322-3005.

NATURA BISSÉ’S OXYGEN COLLECTION FOR POWERFUL HYDRATION AND REMINERALIZATION. ROYAL RETREAT DAY SPA, 231-7329.

LUXURY

ON

GRAY

GRAHAM,

THE NEW YEAR STRESS

WITH THE O SPA, 792-0200.

SEASONAL ARRANGEMENTS, STARTING AT $65. FLORIST OF COVINGTON, 892-7701.

ART DECO STYLE DANCING LADY LAMP. OTHER STYLES AVAILABLE. DOERR FURNITURE, 900-2425.

ANTIQUE CARVED AND GILDED FRENCH FLOOR CANDLESTICKS. GREIGE HOME INTERIORS, 875-7576.

Home

OFF WHITE DISTRESSED LARGE CENTERPIECE BOWL WITH BIRDS. GREIGE HOME INTERIORS, 875-7576.

HO -HO

HOLY FAMILY WOODEN BLOCK ART. DECOEUR, 809-3244.

CHUNKY KNIT THROW BLANKET. THE LIFESTYLE STORE AT FRANCO’S, 792-0270.

CHRISTMAS LONDON PHONE BOOTH WATERGLOBE OPERATED BY USB/BATTERY/TIMER. DELUCA’S FINE JEWELRY AND GIFTS, 892-2317.

MONEO LIGHT FIXTURE AVAILABLE IN 3 SIZES, 4 FINISHES, AND GAS OR ELECTRIC STARTING $722. GULF COAST LANTERNS, 800-910-3275.

HAND-PAINTED DEW DROP BOTANICA HUMMINGBIRD FEEDER, $49. OUTDOOR LIVING CENTER, 893-8008.

BEATRIZ BALL WHITE AND GOLD BOWLS IN ASSORTED SIZES. CORRINN FISHER INTERIORS, 888-1229.

HAND CARVED AND HAND PAINTED TURKEY DECORATION. GREIGE HOME INTERIORS, 875-7576.

COBALT BLUE AND WHITE GINGER JARS WITH GOLD TRIM. DELUCA’S FINE JEWELRY AND GIFTS, 892-2317.

LILAH CHANDELIER. SOUTHLAND PLUMBING, 893-8883

GALAHAD BLUE CHANDELIER. SOUTHLAND PLUMBING, 893-8883 WINE-A-RITA. THE CHIFFAROBE, 710-2677.

VINTAGE BRASS SCALE, $74. DAPHNE BUTTERFLY HOME, 778-0082.

QUEEN BEE JEWELRY COLLECTION. V HOME & INTERIORS, 231-7411.

Women’s Gifts

14K YELLOW GOLD OVAL AND ROUND PAPERCLIP NECKLACE, $1,300. LEE MICHAELS FINE JEWELRY, 504-832-0000.

DIAMOND FLEUR DE LIS, $1,295. BOUDREAUX’S JEWELERS, 626-1666.

CREAM FUR JACKET. COLUMBIA STREET MERCANTILE, 809-1690 OR 809-1789.

TEAL VELVET SUIT WITH 3/4 SLEEVE JACKET AND WIDE LEG PANT. LOTUS CROSS KRISTAL PENDANT ON 18” CLIP NECKLACE. THE LIFESTYLE STORE AT FRANCO’S, 792-0270.

HAMMITT CLASSIC CROSSBODY WITH AN ADJUSTABLE STRAP, EASYTO-ACCESS POCKET. SHOEFFLE, 898-6465.

THEIA JEWELRY MADE WITH SWAVORSKI CRYSTALS, $249. THE CHIFFAROBE, 710-2677.

14K YELLOW GOLD RIBBED DIAMOND BANGLE, $2,450. LEE MICHAELS FINE JEWELRY, 504-832-0000

KENDRA JEWELRY BOX, $189. NICHE MODERN HOME, 624-4045.

JUDE FRANCES BRACELET COLLECTION, STARTING AT $490. BOUDREAUX’S JEWELERS, 626-1666.

For more information about Fidelity

contact Liz Broekman, Director: lizbroekman@bankwithfidelity.com

H e r e f o r

O W E R f u l b u s i n e s s

This iconic Kool Kombi beverage cooler is fully insulated, it will keep your drinks cooler longer and comes with handy gas struts attached to the lid as standard. The working wheels allow you to maneuver the Kombi around your guests when it is time to re fill drinks. A large 40” long! $809.00

LET THE BEGIN!

Gift Cards Available

The Big Green Egg offers more cooking options than all other conventional cookers combined. With an EGG there is simply no need for a separate grill, smoker, pizza oven or rotisserie device...the EGG does all of this and more...to perfection! We also have EGGcessories and lump hardwood charcoal to get your barbeque started!

Officially licensed snack helmet. A great gift item for watching the big game. $69.00

Sunrise heron, hand painted metal wall art. $109.00

Carolina Hammocks in a variety of fabrics and rope colors. $239.99. Tri Beam® hammock stand $289.99.

Four piece swing set. Includes swing, tote, back printed pillow and bottom stripe pillow. Assorted designs. $159.00

Corinthian Bells wind chimes, visually and acoustically exceptional chimes. Starting at $79.00

Cast iron fire bowl with stand, Three sizes. Starting at $409.00

48” round cast aluminum fire table.

Propane tank stores underneath and the full lid makes it a table when not in use. Includes stainless steel burner and fire glass. $2669.00

Open

Lee Michaels

In 1978, Brenda and Lee Berg risked everything they owned to open the first location of Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry in Baton Rouge. Since then, the familyowned business has grown to include nine locations and is in its second generation of ownership and manage ment led by Brenda and Lee’s three sons, Ryan, Scott and Chad Berg.

This year, Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry moved from a location inside Lakeside Mall to a new, freestanding showroom with twice the amount of merchandise on Causeway Boulevard in Metairie. One of the store’s entrances offers a selection of fine jewelry while the other focuses on timepieces.

“We have been working on this new location for over five years,” said Chad Berg, co-president. “We are so excited to finally bring our customers and friends in the New Orleans metro area a new level of luxury. We have been a part of this community for over 25 years and with this expansion, our commitment to this city is greater than ever.”

The 10,400-square-foot showroom offers an elevated shopping experience and features shop-in-shops for high-end brands such as Rolex, David Yurman, Tudor, Roberto Coin, Tag Heuer and Mikimoto. There’s also a greater selec tion from designer favorites including Marco Bicego, Temple St. Clair, Lagos, John Hardy and Ippolita.

That’s not all the new location offers. An expanded bridal counter is framed by unique, hand-painted butterfly wall paper. A state-of-the-art watchmaker shop is visible from the showroom floor.

Customers also enjoy complimentary beverages while resting in a modern seating area.

“Our philosophy of providing each customer with extraordinary jewelry and service will continue,” Chad said. “Personal service has been the corner stone of our growth and the foundation we build upon. This store expansion will be another opportunity to intro duce more people in the New Orleans region to the level of quality and service for which Lee Michaels is known.”

The Berg family and their buyers search the world for the highest quality gems, diamonds, timepieces and giftware, only choosing those that offer expert craftmanship and value to display in their jewelry cases.

Each member of the Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry consultant team is educated through the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), an elite, internation ally recognized organization of jewelers and manufacturers who adhere to the highest standards of ethical conduct in professional expertise, merchandising and advertising. Many of Lee Michaels consultants continue their studies, earning the title of Registered Jeweler and Graduate Gemologists, which allows them to provide expert advice on new jewelry purchases, custom jewelry designs or tender care in the repair of special jewelry pieces passed down through generations.

“We are constantly looking to inno vate and grow. We have enjoyed our Lakeside location for the last 25 years, but it was time to enhance our custom er experience and the environment in which they shop. We are excited not only for our customers to see the new store, but also for our sales associates who are our greatest asset. This is just as exciting for many of them who have been with us for 20-plus years,” said Lee Michael Berg, founder and chairman of Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry.

CA VI AR C O LL E CT IO N S

M Y L A G O S M Y W A Y

FROM THE DESK OF

STEVEN LAGOS

LAGOS Creative Director and Master Jeweler

PROFESSION

PROFESSION Founder and Designer of LAGOS, Master Jeweler, Creative Director.

LOCATION New York, Philadelphia, Bangkok.

MANTRA

“Jewelry is one of the most personal forms of art.”

LAGOS: 45 YEARS OF FINE JEWELRY

It’s an exciting time for LAGOS, as the brand celebrates 45 years of fine jewelry innovation. When I started LAGOS in 1977, I envisioned a collection of diverse styles, sizes, and proportions - where everything works together. A woman could create her own look to suit her personal style. That was important to me 45 years ago and still is today.

This fall season, our Caviar collections play with size and scale, mixing timeless LAGOS designs with modern Caviar textures. Warm gold with diamonds and cool silver with gemstones are among the options offered, so that every woman can express her personal style. It begs the question: Are you fire? Or are you ice?

“Are you fire? Or are you ice?”

FIRE

The warm luxury of gold is at the forefront for fall, with the new Signature Caviar styles delivering expert craftsmanship and design in 18K gold.

SIGNATURE CAVIAR SUPERFINE has a youthful, luxe aesthetic that stays true to classic LAGOS designs. Ideal for layering, these pieces can be worn alone for an understated look or stacked for a bold statement. It’s delicate and light in scale, with superfine Caviar beads that offer a lot of movement. Certain styles feature brilliant diamonds that further elevate the look.

SIGNATURE CAVIAR LINKS return with an updated look and feel. This modern silhouette with toggle closure is available in sterling silver, two-tone, and 18K gold, an excellent addition to any collection. The smooth, polished links are a distinct contrast to Caviar beading.

ICE

The iced opulence of diamonds and gemstones make an impact this fall, with the expansion of our best-selling Caviar Spark collection and the vibrant Signature Caviar Sapphire & Diamond. Diamonds also shine in new luxe versions of the popular Smart Caviar bracelet for the Apple Watch ®.

CAVIAR SPARK expands to include circular and linear styles that highlight brilliant diamonds nestled in sterling silver Caviar beading. From everyday looks to statement pieces, these silhouettes deliver a fresh, modern collection. There is truly something for every woman and every occasion.

In honor of the brand’s 45th anniversary, LAGOS introduces the celebratory SIGNATURE CAVIAR SAPPHIRE & DIAMOND bracelets with colorful sapphires and classic diamonds. From velvety blue and warm pink to sunny yellow and brilliant white, these styles make a statement.

SMART CAVIAR, the fine jewelry bracelet for the Apple Watch®, continues its evolution with new styles just in time for the holidays. Diamonds set in 18K gold and sterling silver elevate the sporty look of the watch to a piece of fine jewelry, offering women options to stay connected in style. Wearable tech is the future and LAGOS is leading the way.

CAROLS & COCKTAILS

WHAT SANTA REALLY WANTS

Nothing says holly and jolly like a holiday cocktail. You can’t go wrong with classic eggnog, but why not treat yourself and your guests to something unexpected? Whether you want to unwind by the fireplace after a long evening of wrapping gifts or kick off a festive party with friends, these cocktails are guaranteed to put some extra cheer into your holiday season!

Merry

Apple Cider Bourbon

1. The spiced apple cider is made by adding the ingredients to a small saucepan and heating over medium heat.

2. Allow the cider to cool once it reaches a simmer.

3. After the cider has cooled, strain out the spices and set the cider aside for cocktail hour.

4. To make the cocktail, mix the chai-spiced apple cider with bourbon.

5. Add ice to your shaker, combine the cider and bourbon, and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.

6. Wet the rim of your glass and dip into a small plate of brown sugar to coat the rim.

7. Strain into your rocks glass with ice.

8. Garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks.

Chocolate & Cinnamon Martini

1 OUNCE GODIVA CHOCOLATE LIQUEUR

1 OUNCE OF LAISSEZ VERSEZ FLAMBEAUX

CINNAMON LIQUEUR

1 OUNCE CREME DE COCOA

4 CARDAMOM PODS

1 OUNCE LOUISIANA RICE VODKA

1 OUNCE HEAVY CREAM

1 DASH OF VANILLA EXTRACT

BROWN SUGAR AND 2 CINNAMON STICKS FOR GARNISH

1. Fill a martini glass with ice and water to chill the glass.

2. Add some ice to a cocktail shaker.

3. Add all the ingredients for the martini into the cocktail shaker with ice and shake vigorously.

4. Dump the water and ice out of your martini glass.

5. Dip the wet rim into a small plate of brown sugar to coat the martini glass rim.

6. Pour the shaken chocolate martini into the prepared glass.

7. Garnish with 2 cinnamon sticks.

Clementine

1

OUNCES

BOURBON

½ OUNCE PIERRE FERRAND DRY CURACAO

OUNCE SPICED BROWN SUGAR SYRUP DEHYDRATED CLEMENTINE SLICE

EGG WHITE

½ TEASPOON AMARETTO SOUR (ENOUGH TO RINSE INSIDE OF COUPE GLASS)

DASHES OF EL GUAPO CHICORY PECAN

1 ROSEMARY SPRIG FOR GARNISH

Sour

1. In a shaker filled with ice, combine the bourbon,

2. curacao, brown sugar syrup, clementine juice and egg white.

3. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.

4. In a chilled coupe glass, swirl enough amaretto to coat the inside.

5. Strain shaken drink into coupe and top with the bitters.

6. Garnish with dehydrated clementine slice, rosemary sprig and dash of cinnamon.

White Russian Mocktail Traditional Eggnog

The joy of creating something new

DON’T TO YOUR

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The House That Love Built

Ronald McDonald House Expansion

Will Double Capacity

WRITTEN BY HILARY CREAMER

Nothing hits life’s pause button as quickly as a seri ous illness or injury. But when it’s a child who is sick, parents must carefully balance the needs of the entire family while doing all they can for their child.

It’s not an easy task, but one the Lopinto family of Covington knows all too well. Aimee and Steve Lopinto excitedly welcomed their second child, Anthony, in 2015. Since then, Anthony has had 14 surgeries and countless other medi cal procedures—all by the tender age of seven.

Anthony was born with lymphatic malformation, a rare disorder that occurs when lymph vessels do not form as they should early in pregnancy. There is no medical consensus on what causes the condition; it is believed to happen at random.

Lymphatic malformation causes Anthony to develop benign masses, or overgrowths, in his body, primarily

in his neck and mouth. The masses are pain ful and can put pressure on near by body parts. Larger masses have been surgi cally removed, but he has hundreds of microcysts that will require treatment throughout his life.

“We think Anthony is one in a million, but he is actually one in 4,000 births. Those of us that love him know that he is one of a kind,” Aimee said.

The Lopinto family has managed to navigate Anthony’s multiple hospi tal stays with the help of the Ronald McDonald House.

“I thought I knew what happened there, but I didn’t really know until we were there ourselves,” Aimee said. “We’ve had food and a comfortable place to shower and rest. And we’ve been in the company of other families on a journey similar to our own. With every surgery, we knew we had a little less to worry about. With their help, we’ve been able to focus on Anthony while staying close

to him through all of his procedures. The employees, volunteers, and other families create a special bond. Anthony calls it Mac’s house, but we call it home.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities has helped families like the Lopintos since 1974. RMHC programs are based on the simple idea that a family should be able to focus, without impediment, on the health of their child. RMHC doesn’t charge families to stay in a Ronald McDonald House, but families can make donations if they choose.

RMHC has 380 programs worldwide that have covered more than 1.5 million overnight stays, ranging from one night to several months. The economic benefits for families staying at a Ronald McDonald House can be significant for families facing multiple, extended hospital stays.

Since 1983, the local chapter, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southeast Louisiana, has carried out this mission in a yellow brick house on Canal Street in New Orleans. With a dedicated staff, caring volunteers and generous community benefactors, RMHC-SLA served as a haven of compassion and comfort for families who must travel far from home to access medical care for their child. RMHC-SLA has hosted families from as far away as Japan.

Staying at a Ronald McDonald House with other families in similar circumstances helps families feel supported and less isoated. Many of the volunteers at RMHC-SLA are parents who have stayed in a Ronald McDonald House with their own chil dren, like the Lopintos who volunteer regularly.

Along with emotional support, a Ronald McDonald House serves as a home-away-from-home, where families can rest in private bedrooms, receive home-cooked meals and relieve stress in the play areas. The House staff provides sibling support, art therapy and music programs, and educational and recreational activities.

Anthony calls it Mac’s house, but we call it home.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE & THE LOPINTO FAMILY

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RMHC also attempts to relieve financial and logistical burdens for guests. Staff and volunteers assume day-to-day tasks and remove concerns over transporta tion, food shopping, cooking, cleaning and other chores. Families’ saved energy can be spent communicating with medi cal teams, keeping up with complicated treatments and procedures, and, most importantly, being present to comfort their child.

Now, after nearly 40 years of operation in the “house that love built” on Canal Street, RMHC-SLA is set to double in size, thanks to a partnership with Children’s Hospital New Orleans.

the joint effort with Children’s Hospital will allow us to provide on-campus housing while nearly doubling our impact for families traveling to our area for pediatric medical care.”

The increase in community spaces will allow for more volunteer-led activities, family meet and greets, supervised child activities, and family support services. This larger space will also allow for more social distancing, which is critical for immunocompromised patients.

“This is a true turning point for us in how we are able to deliver on our mission,” said Grace McIntosh, RMHCSLA executive director.

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This December, RMHC-SLA will move into two renovated buildings on the Children’s Hospital campus. The guest room capacity will expand 47% to 22 rooms, each with a private bathroom. Other amenities include a larger kitchen, game room, library, two laundry rooms, outdoor barbecue area, ample parking and a dining area able to accommodate 64 people.

“For a sick child, having family nearby is critical to the healing process,” said Cheryl Egan, president of RMHC-SLA board of directors. “We are thrilled that

The importance of proximity to the hospital cannot be overstated.

“Our goal is to alleviate some of the stress and to be a resource for families,” said John R. Nickens IV, president and CEO of Children’s Hospital New Orleans.

“The partnership with RMHC-SLA will create expanded access to housing for those in need, providing peace of mind and respite for families on our park-like campus that is specially designed for children and families.”

More donations are needed to round out

the capital campaign. The total project cost is about $6.3 million, with nearly $1.7 million left to be secured. Naming opportunities and legacy gifts are avail able to support the new RMHC-SLA House.

“People often donate from their heart but never meet the families,” Aimee said. “Here we are! Through 14 surgeries and 14 stays, we are not sure we could have progressed with Anthony’s medi cal plan without the Ronald McDonald House. We do whatever we can to raise awareness to how much a donation of money or time means to the families staying at RMHC because we know that firsthand.”

To learn how to support the new Ronald McDonald House, please visit rmhc-sla. org/capital-campaign.

NATURE TRACES

QUERCUS VIRGINIANA

It is impossible to capture the majesty of a Southern live oak in a photograph, but that doesn’t stop me from trying. Being in the presence of these great sentinels can only clearly register in real-time.

The Southern live oak, or Quercus virginiana, is iconic to the coastal South, conjuring images of its impossibly long limbs swooping to the ground and up again, covered in Spanish moss, swaying in a summer breeze.

Like some gigantic arboreal octopus, a Southern live oak’s expanse can be aweinspiring with wide, far-reaching branches that beg to be climbed. On average, the tree’s crown spread is 80 feet and its height is about 50 feet. Some have recorded crown spreads up to 150 feet!

These trees stand as bastions of time, strong, durable and able to outlive us by many (human) lifetimes. That connection to our past is part of their allure. One could stand in the shade of a Southern live oak, touch its trunk and know it has stood in the same location for hundreds of years—through wars, hurricanes, development and more. Maybe that’s why we Southerners feel such great sorrow when one of these long-time friends is felled by a storm. They represent so much more than just a tree.

Some of the oldest, most well-known specimens receive monikers in the custom of boats and great houses. These respected landmarks are dotted across the South. In South Carolina, you can find the Angel Oak, whose trunk measures nearly 30 feet in circumference. And there’s the Friendship Oak in Long Beach, Miss. It’s believed to date to the year 1487 and has a massive crown spread of 155 feet.

A little closer to home there’s the Etienne de Boré Oak in Audubon Park, with its 160-foot-wide crown spread. The Evangeline Oak on the banks of Bayou Teche in St. Martinville is rooted in Cajun folklore and a famous connection with the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

Our Northshore community is home to the Seven Sisters Oak. Located in Lewisburg, it is estimated to be 1,200 years old, has a girth of more than 38 feet and a crown spread of 150 feet. The Seven Sisters Oak has served as president of the Live Oak Society since 1968. The organization has worked to promote

WRITTEN BY HILARY CREAMER

PHOTO CREDIT: COLEEN PERILLOUX LANDRY

the preservation and appreciation of live oak trees since 1934, but only allows trees to become official members—save one human chairman.

Some 500 St. Tammany live oaks are registered with the society, including the Abbot Paul Schaeuble Oak. This massive tree is located on the ceme tery grounds of St. Joseph Abbey near Covington and has a 21-foot girth and crown spread of 95 feet.

We are fortunate to have so many beautiful Southern live oaks on the Northshore. They are in parks, along the streets and in neighborhoods. Some are big, some are enormous, and some are still bedecked with Mardi Gras beads months after the parades have ended. They were here long before I was, and I fervently hope they will be here long after I am gone.

My favorite place to admire these pillars of nature is the Mandeville lakefront on a foggy morning. Where’s yours?

For more information on the Live Oak Society and to see a list of St. Tammany’s registered live oaks, visit lgcfinc.org/ live-oak-society.html.

Smith-Clary

MELANIE JO SMITH & KYLE CHRISTOPHER CLARY

9, 2022

Haleigh Jabbia

THE Gala

THE Gala presented by HUB International was held Oct. 13 at Tchefuncta Country Club in support of patients and families at St. Tammany Cancer Center – A Campus of Ochsner Medical Center. This year’s Step Into Your Imagination-themed soiree raised more than $212,000 to support the programs of the cancer center.

Fidelity Bank American Heart Association

Officials from Fidelity Bank presented the Louisi ana Hospitality Foundation (LHF) with a check for $21,000 after their July P.O.W.E.R Program that celebrated women in the hospitality industry.

Northshore Rejuvenation celebrating one year in business!

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West kicked off its 20th annual Women Build, fundraiser, fueled by Chevron, with a wall raising and blessing of two new habitat homes in Covington.

The 2022 Northshore Go Red for Women® Luncheon for the American Heart Association returned to the Tchefuncta Country Club on Sept. 23.

C.J. Lander celebrating her 40th anniversary with Jake from State Farm.

HAUTE PLATES

527

527 N CAUSEWAY BLVD., MANDEVILLE (985) 778-2820

GALLAGHERS527.COM

Relaxed restaurant & bar that is home to the finest in steaks, Louisiana seafood, and southern cooking. Reservations required for dinner and strongly recommended for lunch. Takeout available.

CHIVOS MEXICAN BISTRO & CANTINA

2999 HWY. 190, MANDEVILLE (985) 778-2298

CHIVOSMEXICANBISTRO.COM

Making Mexican Food Great Again. Enjoy everything from burritos to fajitas to tacos and more, all made from scratch. Stop by to enjoy our daily lunch specials. Happy Hour every day from 2-6pm. Be sure to try one of our signature margaritas. Food can be ordered online and delivered.

GALLAGHER’S GRILL

2306 FRONT ST, SLIDELL (985) 326-8350

509 S. TYLER ST, COVINGTON (985) 892-9992

GALLAGHERSGRILL.COM

Award-winning entrées featuring sizzling steaks, pork chops, and the best seafood Louisiana has to offer. Whether you’re looking for fine dining in a comfortable setting, or a lunch that’s a cut above the rest, we specialize in creating the perfect experience for your needs.

HALF SHELL

70367 LA 21, COVINGTON (985) 276-4500

HALFSHELLOYSTERHOUSE. COM

Local Gulf oysters and a variety of Gulf Coast seafood with a New Orleans flair and influence that extends throughout our ambience and menu. Steaks, chicken, pasta and so much more. Lunch, dinner, daily happy hour, Sunday brunch.

NOTHING

BUNDT CAKES

1111 GREENGATE DR. #D, COVINGTON (985) 888-6555

NOTHINGBUNDTCAKES.COM

Our goal is to bake a cake that not only reminds you of home but also opens you to a new world. And while that’s no easy request, the handcrafted recipes are more than up to the task. Each recipe uses the finest ingredients to bring you Bundt Cake perfection.

ONE THIRTEEN

113 N. OAK ST., HAMMOND (985) 402-3481

ONETHIRTEEN RESTAURANT.COM

one thirteen seeks to enliven the senses through an inspired mid-century modern setting, graceful service and new American cuisine that simply tastes delicious. Menu items include chicken, beef, seafood, wood-fired flat bread, and house-made desserts.

PEACE, LOVE, & LITTLE DONUTS

70493 LA-21, STE. 100 COVINGTON (985) 400-9780

PEACELOVEANDLITTLE DONUTS.COM

Great place for friends or family to gather in the morning or afternoon. Enjoy over 60 flavors of donuts, coffee, juice and a variety of other drink choices. The atmosphere will leave you feeling like a hippie in the ‘70s.

SALTY JOE’S

43344 S. RANGE RD. HAMMOND (985) 956-7099

SALTYJOESBBQ.COM

At our one-of-a-kind dining destination, dishes are made with the best local ingredients from the land to the sea.

Pecan wood in the smoker gives slow-smoked meats the intricate flavors of BBQ that you love. If it’s fire-touched flavors you crave, enjoy our grilled meats, burgers, and fresh seafood.

A SELECTION OF RESTAURANTS AND HAUTE DISHES FOUND AROUND THE NORTHSHORE AND BEYOND.

LA CARRETA

MANDEVILLE, COVINGTON, HAMMOND, AND PONCHATOULA CARRETARESTAURANT.COM

Exuding a tropical, exotic atmosphere, La Carreta is the perfect place to wind down with friends, sample internationally-inspired Mexican cuisine, and sip on margaritas. Daily lunch specials, fiesta time daily and family friendly.

Holiday Sangria

BY YVETTE JEMISON | YDELICACIES.COM

The holidays are upon us, and no gathering is complete without a crowd-pleasing sangria. This big batch drink is fruit-filled, festive, and can be made ahead of time. The fruit is the real star here, and the secret ingredient is just a touch of cinnamon tea.

You can tweak the recipe to your taste preferences by substituting the cabernet sauvignon with your favorite dry red wine, pears for the apples or blood orange juice for traditional OJ. Swap out honey for agave or simple syrup, and if you like your sangria a little sweeter, feel free to add a touch more.

Dust off your punch bowl or pitcher and add this flavorful libation to your holiday table. And be sure to show us your creations! Tag us on Instagram @ insidenorthside and @y_ delicacies.

2 cups water 2 cinnamon sticks

1 bottle cabernet sauvignon

Tchefuncte’s chef Ryan Gall specializes in Louisiana and American cuisine highlight ing the local area’s fresh est ingredients. The scenic view of the Tchefuncte River provides the perfect setting for date night, parties and events, or a special week night dinner. Make reserva tions on OpenTable.com.

1 cup fresh lime juice

1 cup fresh orange juice

¼ cup honey

1 green apple, diced

1 gala apple, diced

1 orange thinly sliced

1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen

1. In a small saucepan bring the water and cinnamon sticks to a boil. Let boil for 3 minutes uncovered. Remove from the heat, cover and let steep for 1 hour.

2. Discard the cinnamon sticks. You should have 1 ½ cups of tea. Pour the tea into a large pitcher.

3. Pour the wine, lime juice, orange juice and honey into the pitcher and stir until well combined. Add the apples, orange and cranberries, and stir well. Refrigerate until chilled, about 3 hours and up to 8 hours. Serve over ice.

GENEROUS HEARTS

Haven’t we all felt this way at some point?

BONNETT BOURGEOIS

“Last year I hit a wall. I was depressed, exhaust ed and felt completely alone. Isolated and lacking the motivation to reach out to friends or family made it worse, but I didn’t want to burden anyone and tried to just get over it on my own. Then Hurricane Ida hit, and my mental health plummeted. I disconnected even more and found myself in a really dark place. I did not know where to turn.”—A.W., from Slidell

Does this sound familiar? A study monitor ing residents’ mental health within the first three months after Hurricane Ida found a significant peak in substance abuse, thoughts of suicide, stress and anxiety. At the same time, Louisiana consistently ranks as one of the states with the most limited access to mental health services. Suicide rates also top the national average, accord ing to an annual report by the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office.

Louisiana’s suicide rate is 13.78 per 100,000 people; the national rate is 13.48 per 100,000 people.

“The stigma of therapy remains a major barrier to obtaining help, especially in St. Tammany where residents may fear wind ing up with a therapist they know,” said Nick Richard, executive director of NAMI St. Tammany. “That’s where WellConnected comes in.”

“In June, I knew I needed to make a change and reached out to NAMI St. Tammany where I discovered WellConnected. I just completed my free, three-month subscription, and I am floored by the difference it has made in my mental health. Registering was quick and easy, and after the Intake Assessment, I was surprised by the severity of my depression and scored very high for anxiety as well.”—A.W.

WellConnected, a collaboration between the Northshore Community Foundation and NAMI St. Tammany, offers free online therapy sessions to 500 Northshore residents.

The online therapy sessions could fill some of the gaps in the area’s mental health services and introduce people who may not have traditionally sought out coun seling to the benefits of therapy. For three months, people can message their therapists daily and engage in two virtual sessions per month at absolutely no cost.

“I am happy to report that as of September, these same scores are down dramatically for anxiety and depression! Just having someone to talk to and help guide me to recovery has made a big difference in my outlook in life. I would recom mend WellConnected to anyone who is feeling a little overwhelmed, withdrawn, or just plain anxious. I plan to continue therapy, even after my subscription is done.”—A.W.

Any of this sound familiar? Symptoms that you could use a little help:

• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns

• Feeling of disconnection or withdrawal

• Inability to cope with problems or daily activities

• No energy, drive or interest in things that once made you happy

• Substance misuse

(Source: Mayo Clinic)

WINNER OF 10 WOMEN’S CHOICE AWARDS

St. Tammany Health System is empowering women like never before. Throughout our system, fellowship-trained specialists and subspecialists work with the highest level of technology available to provide more accurate diagnostics, less invasive care, and faster recoveries for everything from general surgery to specialty care. Together with our partner Ochsner Health, we’re giving women on the Northshore many ways to live stronger and better.