September-October 2012 Issue of Inside Northside Magazine by Inside Publications

450

HEART OF FASHION • HARVEST CUP POLO CLASSIC • CODE BREAKER • ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2012 VOL. 27, NO. 5

September-October 2012

Vol. 27, No. 5

The community magazine of the northshore, serving St. Tammany and Tangipahoa parishes. Publisher Lori Murphy –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Associate Publisher Poki Hampton Editor Jan Murphy Art Director Brad Growden Managing Editor Stephen Faure Editorial Assistant Lauren Smith Contributors are featured on page 16. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Business Manager Jane Quillin Advertising Account Executives Brenda Breck Poki Hampton Candice Laizer Barbara Roscoe Interns Susan Broadbridge Sarah Fredericks Paige Weber Amanda Winters –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For advertising information phone (985) 626-9684 fax (985) 674-7721 email sales@insidenorthside.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Please send items for Inside Scoop to scoop@insidenorthside.com. Photos for Inside Peek, with captions, should be sent to peek@insidenorthside.com. Submit items for Inside Input or Dining Guide to editor@insidenorthside.com. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Contact Inside Northside P.O. Box 9148 Mandeville, LA 70470-9148 phone (985) 626-9684 fax (985) 674-7721 website www.insidenorthside.com Subscriptions 1 Year $18 2 Years $30 email subscriptions@insidenorthside.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

On the cover Artist James Michalopolous –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– INSIDE NORTHSIDE MAGAZINE is published bi-monthly (January, March, May, July, September, November) by M and L Publishing, LLC, PO Box 9148, Mandeville, LA 70470-9148 as a means of communication and information for St. Tam many and Tangipahoa Parishes, Louisiana. Bulk Postage paid at Mandeville, LA. Copy r ight ©2012 by M and L Publishing, LLC. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written consent of publisher. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and artwork.

departments 12 Publisher’s Note 14 Inside Input 16 Contributors 22 Inside Scoop 36 IN Better Health Ysonde Strecker. 82 IN the Arts 2012-2013 cultural season. 127 Flourishes Treasures for your pleasure. 32 IN Good Company 1 Walter and Sylvia Berger, Georgian Furnishing/Bergerhome. 136 Inside Look Autumn Leaves.

table of

contents

page 38

page 136

features

18 Adventures in Painting Cover Artist James Michalopoulos. 38 Coastal Chic The Trader home in Lakeshore Estates. 44 Couture for a Cause 46 Heart of Fashion Harvest Cup Po

lo Classic after page 98.

page 46

46 IN Love and Marriage 1 Notable northshore weddings. 151 IN the Spotlight Sonoma wedding. 152 Inside Peek 155 IN the Spotlight Northshore’s Finest.

page 68

61 Code Breaker Marigold McNeely’s secret role in World War II. 68 St. Louis Cathedral The Jewel of the French Quarter. 92 Inspired. Jane Harvey. 97 Getting to Know Polo

profile 124 EMB Interiors

160 IN Development Development update on Slidell. 62 IN Great Taste 1 Criollo Restaurant at the Monteleone Hotel and Simplee Gourmet. 163 Inside Dining 169 Ad Directory 170 Last Bite Chef Duke Locicero of Café Giovanni.

page 61 September-October 2012 9

What I can’t live without. by Lori Murphy

When the auction chairs for the Heart of Fashion benefit asked me to

select (and get donors for) a package filled with things I can’t live without, I took stock of the blessings that mean so much to me. What is it that I really can’t live without?

Since our daughters are off in college, my most precious treasure this

summer was time with them. Looking at pictures from our getaway to North Carolina helped my contribution come together rather easily! Mine is only one of similar packages that will be auctioned. Beginning on page 46, we highlight some of the many items that are included and their donors, such as Will Boudreaux next to his paddleboard, holding his guitar. His package includes lessons for both! Clothier Wally Rosenblum will fit a lucky guy with a custom-made shirt and send him to the Bourbon Orleans for two days, which is one of his favorite things to do.

My auction package features a stay in

a spectacular mountain home at The Preserve in Cashiers, N.C., and flyfishing lessons! A visit to the O Spa gets you in the right frame of mind for the ride and a book on tape will help the drive time fly by.

View the specifics of all of these auction packages online at www.

biddingforgood.com/HOF. Bidding high to benefit the Heart of Fashion will help fund the advancement of pediatric initiatives at St. Tammany Parish Hospital through its foundation. These generous gifts are a real win-win opportunity! I am happy to thank the Heart of Fashion committee, the event attendees, the auction donors and bidders on behalf of northshore children.

photo: PHILLIP COLWART

INput

I was thumbing through the JulyAugust of Inside Northside, as I do on a regular basis. I usually start at the back of a magazine…old habit, I guess. I didn’t this time, though. I started from the front and when I got to page 20, I had a big smile on my face. I of course recognized my town, especially the American flag shining over the crowd. I looked at the bunch of regulars at the Crescent Bar…a landmark in Hammond. Philip Colwart is an outstanding photographer and a good friend of downtown Hammond—good to see his name alongside the great photo. Thank you for liking us. We work very hard to promote our lovely city. We welcome so many folks from the region and for Hot August Night guests from all over the U.S. and the world. We have witnessed old classmates running across the street to greet someone not seen for years. Even old girl- and boyfriends stop for a hug and some conversation. Again, we appreciate showing up in this wonderful magazine. Terry Lynn Smith, Executive Director Downtown Development District Terry Lynn, One of the best parts about our jobs is that we get to highlight the people

of the northshore and their wonderful communities! Another perk is receiving letters such as yours. Thanks for writing. - Jan Dear Inside Northside, I can truly relate to the Publisher’s Note in the last issue, “24 miles is a world away.” It does seem like a vacation trip to some family and friends to come to the northshore. But I can remember in high school taking much longer to get from Metairie to New Orleans and make it in time for classes to start! I guess if you are sitting in traffic as opposed to moving on the bridge, it’s different. I do, however, have a few students who attend my art classes that come over once a week, and after class they take advantage of the northshore’s wonderful restaurants and quaint shops. They say that it’s their favorite day of the week, and they love the peace and quiet of our towns. I am thankful that they enjoy and appreciate it so much. Gretchen Armbruster Armbruster Artworks Studio Gretchen, Happy to know that your students

from the southshore agree with us about the treasures we so often take for granted! - Lori Editor’s Note: The following comment on the July-August Publisher’s Note was made online at insidenorthside.com. This is all so true. What’s even funnier is that, compared to other drives of similar distance, not only is the bridge not a bad drive, it’s actually much easier and safe. Think about driving across most metro areas of NO or through the dark, curvy back roads of North STP. A well-lit, straight shot with police around if you need them is an easy drive, comparatively speaking. A. Gibson

photo: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

We are always gratified when we get feedback, and it is especially exciting to have a reader check us out and respond online. Thank you! - Steve

Contributors Editor’s Note: These interns brought their enthusiasm, energy and expertise to Inside Northside this summer. They worked like pros in sales and editorial, doing everything from helping with ads and compiling Inside Look and Scoop to copy editing and updating the Dining Guide. We will certainly miss them, but we wish them much success as they pursue their studies.

Susan Broadbridge Susan Broadbridge is a sophomore at the University of Southern Mississippi, majoring in photojournalism. Susan has a passion for photography and wishes to capture not just an image, but to tell a story. She cannot wait to see the paths photography will take her in life. Through her internship at Inside Northside, Susan has realized how much work and dedication it takes to publish a magazine. She enjoys running, watching Saints and Hornets games and spending time with her family and friends.

Amanda Winters Mandeville’s Amanda Winters is a northshore native. As a teenager, an internship at the Mandeville Trailhead sparked her interest in advertising and promotion. She is currently a sophomore at Louisiana State University, studying advertising in the mass communications college. In her spare time, she loves to read, cook and go kayaking on the Bogue Falaya River. Contributors: Derric Boudreaux, Karen Gibbs, Megan Hill and Dawn Sharpe-Brackett.

Sarah Fredericks Born and raised in Mandeville, Sarah Fredericks attended Mandeville High School. Now starting her sophomore year at Louisiana State University, Sarah is working toward a bachelor’s degree in mass communication at the Manship School, with a concentration in journalism and a minor in fashion merchandising. With God leading her way, Sarah dreams of moving to New York and working toward becoming a stylist at ELLE Magazine.

Paige Weber Paige Weber is a second-year student at Louisiana State University pursuing a degree in public relations with a minor in business. A copy editor for the LSU student newspaper, The Daily Reveille, Paige learned more about press releases and furthered her editing skills while interning at Inside Northside. When she’s not working or studying, Paige enjoys cooking, reading and trying new things. She hopes to work in either the non-profit or entertainment industry and someday travel the world.

we both sipped coffee, he on his porch overlooking the sunny vineyards of Burgundy on a French afternoon while it rained cats and dogs for us on a Mandeville morning, we talked about his journey toward becoming one of the area’s most respected— and popular—artists. “I came on a lark, and fell in love with the city,” he says. It’s a love that’s lasted; and, as New Orleans is wont to do with its new acquaintances, the city worked her way deep into his soul. Michalopoulos was born in Pittsburgh and lived in the northeast before coming to New Orleans after graduating from Bowdoin College in Maine. “Being from New England, it was such a different world, and it was very, very attractive to me,” he recalls. “I was totally taken by its uniqueness and its beauty, how different and original a city it was. I thought it would be best to stay; I went back and forth for a year or two and then finally settled in.” Michalopoulos spent a lot of time getting to know

Adventures in painting

Cover Artist James Michalopoulos

by Stephen Faure IT’S BEEN ALMOST 10 YEARS since IN last featured James Michalopoulos’ work on our cover. The iconic New Orleans artist and entrepreneur is celebrating his long relationship with the northshore by participating in this year’s Harvest Cup Polo Classic fundraising effort of the Junior League of Greater Covington. As he does with many causes (he particularly supports Habitat for Humanity), Michalopoulos is assisting the JLGC by donating a hand-embellished giclée entitled Scene for 10:15 (above), which will be auctioned off at the polo event on Oct. 21. Michalopoulos is also helping IN celebrate the coming of the fall season with our cover painting, Colour Swim. A little bit of France that he’s sent home to Louisiana, it is one of a series of landscapes he recently painted at his home-away-from-home in Burgundy. IN caught up with Michalopoulos this summer via Skype for our first-ever international interview. As 18

Inside Northside

the city that he’d decided to adopt and would come to represent so well through his art. The great effort he made—and continues to make—to become engaged with New Orleans’ people, music, art and architecture shows in his work. He’s also involved with a couple of other things New Orleans is famous for—food and drink—as a restaurateur and creator of Celebration Distillation and its brand of Old New Orleans Rum. People who don’t know his name probably know his art. Maybe they’ve seen his paintings; he’s wellknown for his large, colorful and playful renderings of New Orleans buildings. Perhaps they know him for his Jazz and Heritage Festival Posters—he’s been chosen as the fest’s poster artist five times, more than any other artist. Or, maybe they’re among the thousands of commuters and shoppers who view the very large manifestation of his exploration into abstract sculpture with his first public installation on Veterans Memorial >>

Meet cover artist

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September-October 2012 19

Boulevard near Lakeside Shopping Center. His paintings are part of numerous private collections and museums, including the New Orleans Museum of Art and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art.

Street-Side Portraits to Dancing Houses Michalopoulos is basically, as he notes, a self-taught artist who has never stopped learning. He also learned from being in the company of other artists. “I started studying people’s work at Jackson Square. At some point, I decided to take courses at the New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts. I studied figure drawing there, as well as at the University of New Orleans. I also studied on my own—and I still do so today.” His start came as a street artist, making quick sketches of captive audiences. “I couldn’t get a license to set up in Jackson Square; they were all taken up. I would hustle people for portraits while they were waiting for taxis at Schwegmann’s, sometimes on the trolley line on Canal Street, too. Two or three dollars would get you a little sketch,” Michalopoulos says. “I’d stand down at St. Charles and Canal because people always had a long wait there and they made for pretty accessible ‘victims.’” Working with the public at these two different sides of the city, the Schwegmann’s supermarket at St. Claude and Elysian Fields and at the CBD streetcar stop, must have provided a crash-course in New Orleans culture. After a time, though, Michalopoulos decided to really take it on the road. “I’d been painting a lot of portraits. At one point, I was kind of tired of it and wanted to move on. I’ve always been a fan of the architecture, so it was a natural choice for me,” he says. He roamed throughout the city,

scouting out architectural subjects in the Ninth Ward, Bywater, Marigny, Mid City, Central City, the Garden District and even the Westbank. “For a long time, I used to travel around on a Vespa scooter with a fold-up easel on the back. I had enough food and wine to keep me going for a night. I’d roll out and set up, and sometimes I’d work all night long— it’s too hot to work in the day.” Michalopoulos has fond memories of these journeys. “I loved doing that. Working late and staying on the spot with my wonderful little scooter.” He never knew in advance exactly what he was looking for and just let the city carry him along, saying, “I feel like I’m lost in a mystery. I move along until something says ‘stop’ and I do it.” It was a prolific time for Michalopoulos, and his work was being shown in different venues throughout town. One early aficionado was the owner of the Louisiana Pizza Kitchen restaurant, which was then located on Esplanade. Diners could enjoy Michalopoulos’ work hanging on the walls, and it was available for purchase—at prices that might have anyone who remembers those days at the restaurant kicking themselves. “I had a lot of fun there, and what I liked about it was that there were always artists there eating. It wasn’t too expensive, it was always fresh and you could get great comments on your work. It was a great place to get criticized, and it was very encouraging and supportive.” Michalopoulos eventually got a license to sell his work in Pirates Alley and sold art on Bourbon Street as well. He says there was a house on Chartres in the area around Dumaine and St. Phillip streets that he passed all the time on his way towards Jackson Square. “It’s in a great area a block or two off the square. I spent a lot of time in the

neighborhood. I have great recollections of that lovely building and all of its higharched windows.” On the same block was a French Quarter hang-out, he recalls, a Chartres Street coffee house named Until Waiting Fills. In those days before PJ’s and CC’s and Starbucks, it was a relatively rare establishment that served up espresso and cappuccino. Michalopoulos remembered the somewhat-Bohemian haunt when talking about the work he’s donated for auction at this year’s Harvest Cup Classic. Scene for 10:15 is a classic Michalopoulos painting of a building on a French Quarter corner, set at night time yet glowing in the moonlight. “Back in the day when artists used to live in the Quarter, that was kind of a down-and-out little area. In the ’80s, Until Waiting Fills was a great coffee house, right across from Irene’s. I spent a lot of time there because they were open all night. Artists hung out; it was a great spot where you could go, grab a cup of coffee, open up your notebook and spend three or four hours reading philosophy, playing chess or debating somebody—it was that kind of oldschool coffee house.”

His Style Michalopoulos’ paintings are instantly recognizable: vibrant with lots of color, textural with lots of paint and often on a grand scale. A great example is this issue’s cover, Colour Swim, which stands 5 feet 6 inches tall. Colour Swim is an example of a shift in subject matter that comes with his time spent in France. He maintains a full studio there and in New Orleans, as well as a metal shop in both locations, so he can continue creating without interruption. His pictorial subject matter shifts while in France, however, with landscapes and animals, such as the cow in Amazing continued on page 144

September-October 2012 21

Madisonville’s Wooden Boat Festival

INSIDE the definitive guide to northshore events and entertainment

September 1 Arrival of new European antiques at Lynn Stirling Antiques. Food and other refreshments will be served. Lynn Stirling Antiques, 4250 Hwy. 22, Mandeville. 10am-5:30pm. 626-7704. Y1 Baby Chat for Siblings. Ages three and up with parent. St. Tammany Parish Hospital, Covington. 10am-noon. 898-4083. 1 Online Shopping “Kick-Off” Party. Get an online discount coupon, treats, prizes and giveaways! The Silver Plum, 2891 Hwy. 190, The Village, Mandeville. 10am-5pm. 674-4313. 1-2 Labor Day Getaway and Sidewalk Sale. Downtown Ponchatoula. 10am-5pm. Liz Anderson, 386-2536. 1-9 Willy Wonka. The Slidell Little Theatre, 2024 Nellie Dr., Slidell. Fri.-Sat., 8pm; Sun., 2pm. slidelllittletheatre.org. 1-22 Optical Illusions: In 3D! Things aren’t always what they seem. Slidell Culture Center, 2055 Second St., Slidell. Wed-Fri, noon-4pm; Sat, 9am-noon. Free. slidell.la.us. 1-29 Camellia City Market. Griffith Park, corner of 2nd and Erlanger Sts., Slidell. Sat., 8am-noon. Free. camelliacitymarket.org. 22

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Oct. 13-14 23rd Annual Wooden Boat Festival presented by Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum. Over 100 classic and wooden boats on display, regional delicacies, and fine wares by artists and marine vendors. Children’s Village, Quick ’n’ Dirty Boat-Building Contest and more. Music Sat: Sound Barrier,

1-29 Covington Farmers Market. Wed, Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St., 10am-2pm; Sat, 609 N. Columbia St., 8amnoon. Free. 892-1873. 1-29 Hammond Farmers Market. W. Thomas St. and S.W. Railroad Ave., Hammond. Sat., 9am-3pm. Terry Lynn Smith, 277-5680. 1-29 Mandeville Trailhead Community Market. 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville. Sat., 9am1pm. Free. mandevilletrailhead.org. 1-30 Audubon’s Dinosaur Adventure. Replicas of moving, roaring dinosaurs in natural habitats. Audubon Zoo, New Orleans. Tue-Fri, 10am-5pm; Sat-Sun, 10am-6pm. Members, $2; non-members, $4. auduboninstitute.org. 1-30 Jax Frey Exhibit. The artist’s figurative and impressionistic works. Ochsner Medical Center, 1514 Jefferson Hwy., New Orleans. Open all hospital hours. Free. artbyjax.com. 1-30 Mandeville City Hall Artist of the Month. Tammy Morris. Mandeville City Hall, 3101 E. Causeway App. Mon-Fri, 9am-4:30pm. Free. Nancy Clark, 626-3144. 1-30 Molten. The newest collection by Michael Aram. Free gift with Aram purchase of $150 while supplies last. Arabella Fine Gifts and Home Décor, 3902 Hwy. 22, Mandeville. 727-9787.

1- Oct 14 Ralston Crawford Jazz. Music, photography, painting, drawing and film intersect in Crawford’s work. New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, New Orleans. (504) 6584100. noma.org. 1- Feb 2013 “Something Old, Something New: Collecting the 21st Century.” Acquisitions since the year 2000 on exhibit. The Historic New Orleans Collection, 533 Royal St., New Orleans. Tue-Sat, 9:30am-4:30pm; Sun, 10:30am-4:30pm. hnoc.com. 3-24 Cooking Class for Kids! Culinary Kids, 3441 E. Causeway App., Mandeville. Mondays, 5:15-7:15pm. Reservations required. 727-5553. 3-24 Mommy and Me Classes. Culinary Kids, 3441 E. Causeway App., Mandeville. Mondays, 10-11am or 1-2pm. Reservations required. 727-5553. Y4, 11 “1, 2, 3, 4 Parents.” Enhancing parenting skills for parents of 0-4 year olds. Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. Members, $25; nonmembers, $35; Additional spouse, $15. 898-4435. 4-28 Hand-painted porcelain. Causeway Branch Library, 3457 Hwy. 190, Mandeville. Mon-Thurs, 9am-8pm; Fri-Sat, 9am-5pm. Christy Lassalle, 863-5364.

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Bottoms Up, Boot Hill and Category 6; Sun: Meanies, 4 Unplugged. Mulberry and Water streets, Madisonville. 10am-6pm. $10/person; $5/over 65; free for children under 12 and uniformed military personnel. For more information, call 845-9200 or go to woodenboatfest.org or lpbmm.org/wbf/. 5 Congressional update with Rep. Steve Scalise. West St. Tammany Chamber. Benedict’s Plantation, 1144 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville. 11am-1pm. Members, $30; non-members, $35. Melissa Bordelon, 273-3008. 5 Culture Collision 4. New Orleans’ cultural organizations’ “happy hour.” Generations Hall, 310 Andrew Higgins Dr., New Orleans. 5:30-10pm. Free. facebook.com/ CultureCollision. Y5 Pizza birthday party. For children with September birthdays. The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. 11:30am-noon. 898-4435. Y5 Positive Discipline ‑ Who’s the Boss? Strategies to deal more effectively with your child (birth-5 years). The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B., Covington. 5:30-7:30pm. 898-4435. Y5, 12, 19, 26 Bereavement Counseling. For those who have suffered loss. Every Wednesday. Hospice of St. Tammany, 725 W. 11th Ave., Covington. 10am. 8715746.

Y6 Breastfeeding Support Group. Breastfeeding your child. The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. First Thursday of every month. 12-1pm. Free. 898-4435. Y6 Helping Patients/Families Journey Through the Final Stages of Life. St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1202 S. Tyler St., Covington. Registration, 7:45am; Sessions, 8am-12:15pm or 1:154:30pm. STPH employees, free; Others, $60. 898-4083. Y6 New Baby Support Group. Information and support. The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. 11:15amnoon. 898-4435. 6 Player’s Night. Silver Slipper Casino & Landlubbers Pub & Club. Free food and live music. Benefits St. Tammany Suicide Prevention Support Program. Landlubbers, 3606 Pontchartrain Drive, Slidell. 8pm-midnight. Jaime Burchfield, 778-0815. 6 Preparing for Childbirth. >> Lakeview Regional Medical Center,

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Inside Scoop Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington. 6:30pm. Free. Registration, 866-4LAKEVIEW. 6-7 Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST). Sponsored by St. Tammany Outreach for the Prevention of Suicide. For mental health professionals, educators or anyone interested in preventing suicide. Pastoral Conference Center, 69090 E. Hwy. 190 Service Rd., Covington. 8:30am-4pm. $250.00. Lynette Savoie, 237-5506. 7 High String Revival. Danny Bond, Shane Willis and William Wilkie. Ruby’s Roadhouse, 840 Lamarque St., Mandeville. 9:30pm. highstringrevival.com. 7 Geaux Over the Edge: The Ultimate S.W.A.T. Experience. Benefits Special Olympics Louisiana. Benson Tower, 201 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans. 7am. $1,000. laso. org. 7-23 The Nerd. Comedy by Larry Shue. Playmakers Theater, 19106 Playmakers Rd., Covington. Fri-Sat, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. Adults, $15; Students, $10. playmakersinc.com. 7- Dec 2 Photography, Sequence, & Time. How photographers have sought to overcome the narrative limitations of the single image. New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, New Orleans. (504) 658-4100. noma.org. 8 Happy Birthday, Louisiana Children’s Museum! Celebrating 26 years. Louisiana Children’s Museum, 420 Julia St., New Orleans. 11am-3pm. Admission, $8; members, free. (504) 523-1357. 8 Madisonville Art Market. Art from local artists. Water St., Madisonville. 10am-4pm. Free. madisonvilleartmarket.com. 8 Saturday Storyquest. Bringing the world of children’s literature to NOMA. 11am. New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, New Orleans. (504) 658-4100. noma.org. Y8-Oct 20 Using Lamaze. Relaxation and pain control for childbirth. St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1202 S. Tyler St., Covington. Weekly on Saturdays. 4-7pm. $50. 898-4083. 8, 22 Hammond Farmers Market. 200 block of S.W. Railroad Ave., Hammond. 9am-2pm. Free. Terry Lynn Smith, 277-5681. 24

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Y10 Infant/Child CPR. Learn skills needed in emergencies. The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. 6:30-8:45pm. Members, $20; Non-members, $25. 898-4435. 10-25 Art Educators as Artists. Exhibit, Hammond Regional Arts Center, 217 East Thomas St., Hammond. Tues-Fri, 1-5pm; Saturdays, 11am-3pm. hammondarts.org. Y1, 18 Baby Care Basics. St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1202 S. Tyler St., Covington. 7-9pm. 898-4083. Y11, 18, 25 Play & Learn. Parents, grandparents or caregivers and their children. Ages 16 mos.-4 yrs. The Parenting Center, 1505 N.. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. 9:25-10:15am. $15. 898-4435. 11, 20 Learning @ Your Library, E-reader Help. Learn about e-readers and using library databases. Tuesday at 310 W. 21st Ave., Covington, 6-7:30pm; Thursday at 79213 Hwy. 40, Lee Rd., 2:30-4:30pm. Free. register.stpl.us/ evanced/lib/eventcalendar.asp. Y12 Homework Help: A Parent’s Survival Guide. The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. 6-7pm. Members, $5; non-members, $10. Registration required. 898-4435. Y12 I Don’t Want to Go to Sleep. Guidelines and tools to facilitate children’s sleep. The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. 10-11:30am. $10. 898-4435. Y12 Spiritual Issues at the End of Life. St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1202 S. Tyler St., Covington. 8am-noon. $30. 898-4038. Y13 Free Child Safety Seat Inspections. Second Thursday of each month. The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. 9am-noon. 898-4435. Y13, 20, 27 Cuddle Buddies. Learning and support for all caregivers; playtime for babies. The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. 10:30-11am. $6. 898-4435. Y14 Children in the Middle - Children’s Version. For children of divorcing parents. The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, >> Covington. 8-9pm. $10. 898-4435. September-October 2012 25

Inside Scoop 6:30pm. Free. cityofmandeville.com. Y14 Look of Fashion. Book any service on this day and 50 percent of the proceeds benefit the advancement of pediatric care at St. Tammany Parish Hospital. H2O Salon, 3908 Hwy. 22, Mandeville. 9am-3pm. Appointments, Phoebe, 951-8166, ext. 103. 14 Northlake Newcomer Coffee. Annual meet and greet coffee. Benedict’s Plantation, 1144 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville. 10am. infonewcomers@aol.com. 14 Parent’s Night Out! For kids ages 4 and up. Culinary Kids, 3441 E. Causeway App., Mandeville. Three hours for $30. Reservations required, 727-5553. 14 Scales and Ales. Benefiting the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, 1 Canal St., New Orleans. VIP Party, 7pm; General admittance 8-11pm. auduboninstitute.org/scalesandales. 14 Speed Dating. West St. Tammany Chamber. Market your business one-on-one with other attendees. Staybridge Suites, 140 Holiday Blvd., Covington. 8-10am. Members only. $10. Melissa Bordelon, 273-3008.

Y15 Boot Camp for New Dads. St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1202 S. Tyler St., Covington. 9am-noon. $10. 898-4083. Y15 Brain Injury Connections. Brain injury support group. St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1202 S. Tyler St., Covington. 9:30am-noon. Ann T. Mejia, 640-0498. Y15 New Family Center Tours. For prospective new parents. New Family Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1202 S. Tyler St., third floor, Covington. 10am-12:05pm. Jan Waddell, 898-4536. 15-16, 22-23 A Year with Frog and Toad. Arnold Lobel story. The Slidell Little Theatre, 2024

Y17, 24 Children in the Middle. A two-part series for divorcing parents. The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. 7-9pm. $35. 898-4435. 18 Headaches and TMJ with Susan Blanchard, PT. Rehab Dynamics, 103 Northpark Blvd., Suite 205, Covington. 12-1pm, lunch provided. Free. Reservations required, 871-7878. 18-22 Latin American Heritage Week & Festival. Louisiana Children’s Museum, 420 Julia St., New Orleans. Heritage Week, 9:30am5pm; Heritage Festival, 11am-3pm. Admission, $8; Members, free. (504) 523-1357.

Nellie Dr., Slidell. 5pm. slidelllittletheatre.org. 16 Don Vappie and the Creole Jazz Serenaders. Third Sunday Concert Series. Christ Episcopal Church, 120 S. New Hampshire St., Covington. 5pm. Free. 892-3177.

19 Business After Hours. Casual networking; food from Voo Doo Barbeque. West St. Tammany Chamber. 2997 Hwy. 190, Mandeville. 5:30-7pm. Members, $5; Non-members, $10. Melissa Bordelon, 273-3008.

16 Sunset Sunday Concert. The Boogiemen. Free concert series. Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville. 4:30-

Y19 Cancer Connection Support Group. St. Tammany Parish Hospital. Charles A Frederick Jr. Medical Office Complex, 1203 S. Tyler St.,

Covington. 7-8pm. Debra Miller, 898-4581. Y19 Living Tobacco-Free. A tobacco cessation support program. St. Tammany Parish Hospital Paul Cordes Outpatient Pavilion, 16300 Hwy. 1085, Covington. 11:30am-12:30pm. 898-4468. 19 Northshore Rising Professionals Luncheon. West St. Tammany Chamber. University of Phoenix, 1001 Ochsner Blvd., Ste. 1000, Covington. 11:30am-1pm. Members, $10; non-members, $15. Melissa Bordelon, 273-3008. Y19 Temper Tantrums. Young childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s temper tantrums and how to handle them. The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. 10-11:30am. $10. 898-4435. 19, Oct 17 Opera on Tap. Casual concert. Abita Brew Pub, 72011 Holly St., Abita Springs. 7pm. Free. neworleansopera.org. 20 Chamber after Hours. Networking, conversation and business. Whitney Bank, 545 W. Pine St., Ponchatoula. 5:30-7pm. Liz Anderson, 386-2536.

Y20 Heart of Fashion. Saks Fifth Avenue luncheon and fashion show benefitting pediatric advancement at St. Tammany Parish Hospital. Tchefuncta Country Club, 2 Country Club Park, Covington. 11am. $150. Nicole Suhre, 8984171. Y20 Night of Fashion. Saks Fifth Avenue dinner and fashion show benefitting pediatric advancement at St. Tammany Parish Hospital. Tchefuncta Country Club, 2 Country Club Park, Covington. 6:30pm. Nicole Suhre, 898-4171. 20-Oct 11 Lamaze Class. Lakeview Regional Medical Center, Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington. 6:30pm. Free. lakeviewregional.com. 21 Christian Serpas Acoustic Show. K. Geeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant, 2534 Florida St., Mandeville. 6-9pm. kgeesrestaurant.com. 21 Concerts in the Courtyard. Paul Soniat. Historic New Orleans Collection. 533 Royal St., New Orleans. Doors open, 5:30pm; music, 6-8pm. $10; members, free. Includes three drinks. hnoc.org.

21 Corks & Cooking for Adults! Culinary Kids, 3441 E. Causeway App., Mandeville. Reservations required; call for menu and details, 727-5553. 21 Sunset at the Landing Concert. Bring a picnic! Columbia Street Landing, 100 N. Columbia St., Covington. 6-9pm. Free. 8921873. 21, 22 BugFest. Crosby Arboretum, 370 Ridge Rd., Picayune, Miss. Fri, 10am-10pm; Sat, 10am-5pm. Adults, $5; Children and students, $2. crosbyarboretum.msstate.edu. Y22 Fall Health Fair. Diagnostic screenings and health information. St. Tammany Parish Hospital Paul D. Cordes Outpatient Pavilion, 16300 Hwy. 1085, Covington. 8-11:30am. 8716080. 22 First Annual EPIK 5K Run for the Children of St. Jude. Cate St. Park, 200 W. Charles St., Hammond. 1 mile fun run, 8am; 5K after. $5 off for pre-registration ending Sept. 15. Registration 6:45-7:45am. Adults, $30; 12 and under $15. Blaine Ehrlich, 507-4586. >>

September-October 2012 27

Inside Scoop 23 Sunset Sunday Concert. Wanda Rouzan. Free concert series. Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville. 4:30-6:30pm. Free. cityofmandeville.com. 25, 26, 28 Resource Bank Customer Appreciation BBQs. 11am-1pm. 9/25, Bogalusa Branch, 402 Ave. B, Bogalusa; 9/26, Franklinton Branch, 10th Ave., Franklinton; 9/28, Slidell Branch, 2283 Gause Blvd. East, Slidell. bankonresource.com. Y26 Alzheimer’s Support Group. For caregivers. St. Tammany Parish Hospital Paul D. Cordes Outpatient Pavilion, 16300 Hwy. 1085, Covington. Noon-1:30pm. 871-5746. 26 Cultural Economy Luncheon. Guest speaker: Chef Susan Spicer. West St. Tammany Chamber. Tchefuncta Country Club, 2 Country Club Dr., Covington. 11:30am-1pm. Members, $40; non-members $45; Reserved table for eight, $400. Melissa Bordelon, 237-3008. 26 Estate Planning Seminar. Estate Planning Law Center, a division of Moody & Johnson. Homewood Suites, 100 Holiday Square Frontage Road, Covington. 10am and 5:30pm. Free. Reservations, 542-1351. 27-28 Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST). Sponsored by St. Tammany Outreach for the Prevention of Suicide. 12.5 CEUs. For mental health professionals, educators or anyone interested in preventing suicide. Pastoral Conference Center, 69090 E. Hwy. 190 Service Rd., Covington. 8:30am-4pm. $250. Lynette Savoie, 985-237-5506. 27-28 The Light in the Piazza. Fanfare performance. Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts, 220 E. Thomas St., Hammond. 7:30pm. columbiatheatre.org. 28 Columbia Street Block Party. Street festival and classic car display. 200-500 blocks of Columbia St., Covington. 6:30-9:30pm. Free. 892-1873. 28 Ida Kohlmeyer’s 100th Anniversary. The artist’s word from NOMA’s permanent collection. New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, New Orleans. (504) 658-4100. noma.org. 28 LOVE in the Garden. Held in NOMA’s Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll

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Circle, New Orleans. (504) 658-4100. noma.org. 28 Mahler’s Symphony No. 5, Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. First Baptist Church in Covington. 7:30pm. LPOmusic.com. 28 Member Orientation. West St. Tammany Chamber. Chamber office, 610 Hollycrest Blvd., Covington. 8-9am. Free. Melissa Bordelon, 2733008. 28 Parents’ Night Out! Kids ages 4 and up. Feature film: The Princess and the Frog. Culinary Kids, 3441 E. Causeway App., Mandeville. Three hours for $30. Reservations required, 727-5553. 28 Volunteer Auxiliary Semi-Annual Book Sale. Lakeview Regional Medical Center, Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington. 8am-4pm. Free. lakeviewregional.com. 28 Women Build Kickoff Event. Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West. Women build homes for families. The Grove at Mile Branch, 424 Purslane Dr., Covington. Minimum $30 donation. Habitatstw.org. 28, 29 Oktoberfest. Beer, food and music hosted by Heiner Brau Microbrewery. Covington Trailhead, 226 E. Lockwood St., Covington. Friday, 5-9pm; Sat, noon-9pm. covingtonbrewhouse.com. 28, 29 PIG Golf Tournament and Party. Benefits disadvantaged children and seniors. Four Unplugged, drinks, food raffle and silent auction. Beau Chêne Country Club, Mandeville. Registration, 11am-12:30pm; shotgun start, 12:30pm; awards, 5:30pm; Party, 7-10pm. Melanie Roth, 845-4220. 29 Family Dinner Night! Culinary Kids, 3441 E. Causeway App., Mandeville. 5-6:30pm. $12 per person; bring your own beverages. Call for menu and to make a reservation, 727-5553. 29 Newborn Care Class. Lakeview Regional Medical Center, Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington. 10am-noon. Free. lakeviewregional.com. 29 Smithsonian Museum Day Live! Free admission and special offers from local museums for Smithsonian Museum Day ticket holders. For venue and ticket information visit Smithsonianmag.com/museumday. 29 Swamp Stomp Dance. Rocky Denny

September-October 2012 29

Inside Scoop Band. Ponchatoula Chamber. Knights of Columbus Hall, 1700 N. Oak St., Hammond. 8pm-midnight. $10. BYOL-Setups Provided. Cathy Allen, 370-4027. 30 Envision Our Library. Informal social for St. Tammany Library Foundation’s Charter Membership drive. Jeannette Fischer’s home, 275 Shaunell Dr., Mandeville. 6pm. Individual membership, $25. sttammanylibraryfoundation.org. 30 - Oct 14, 28 Bayou Jam Concerts. Redline, Sept 30; Mike “Soulman” Baptiste and Real Soul, Oct 14; and Vince Vance & the Valiants, Oct. 28. Heritage Park, Slidell. 6pm. Free. slidell.la.us.

October 1 32nd Annual Golf Classic. Methodist Home for Children of Greater New Orleans. Beau Chêne Country Club, 602 N. Beau Chêne Dr., Mandeville. 11:30am. Megan Male, 626-6649. 1-15 Soles for Souls. Donate a gently worn

pair of children’s shoes and receive 20% off of a new pair. The Silver Plum, 2891 Hwy. 190, Mandeville. 674-4343. 1-29 Cooking Class for Kids! Culinary Kids, 3441 E. Causeway App., Mandeville. Mondays, 5:15-7:15pm. Reservations required, 727-5553. 1-29 Mommy and Me Classes. Culinary Kids, 3441 E. Causeway App., Mandeville. Mondays, 10-11am or 1-2pm. Reservations required, 727-5553. 1-31 Mandeville City Hall Artist of the Month. Mandeville Community Center Senior Artists. Mandeville City Hall, 3101 E. Causeway App. Mon-Fri, 9am-4:30pm. Free. Nancy Clark, 626-3144. 2 MatheMagic. Entertaining show promoting math skills and problem solving. Columbia Theatre, 220 E. Thomas St., Hammond. 5434366. southeastern.edu/fanfare. 2, 3, 5, 11, 12 Resource Bank Customer Appreciation BBQs. 11am-1pm. 10/2, Hwy. 21 Branch, 70533 Louisiana 21, Covington;

10/3, Metairie Branch, 111 Veterans Memorial Boulevard #804, Metairie; 10/5, W. Causeway Branch, 1695 W. Causeway App., Mandeville; 10/11, Village Walk Branch, 5100 Village Walk, Ste. 102, Covington; 10/12, Hwy. 59 Branch, 68177 Highway 59, Mandeville. bankonresource. com. Y2, 9 Art of Breastfeeding. Establishing breastfeeding skills. St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1202 S. Tyler St., Covington. 7-9pm. 898-4083. Y3 Bereavement Counseling. For those who have suffered loss. Hospice of St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 725 W. 11th Ave., Covington. 10am. 871-5746. 3-31 Covington Farmers Market. Wed, Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St., 10am-2pm; Sat, 609 N. Columbia St., 8amnoon. Free. 892-1873. Y4 New Baby Support Group. The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. 11:15am-noon. 898-4435. 4, 11, 18, 25 Rockin’ the Rails at the

Covington Trailhead. Free concert series. Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St., Covington. Free. 892-1873. 5 Legends of Rock and Roll Gala. 1950s-era music and cocktails; live auction. La. State Museum Foundation. Old U.S. Mint, 400 Esplanade Ave., New Orleans. Patron Party, 6:308pm; Main Party, 8-11pm. thelmf.org. 5-Dec 1 The Accidental Artist. Slidell Cultural Center at City Hall, 2055 Second St., Slidell. Wed-Fri, noon-4pm; Sat, 9am-1pm. Free. slidell.la.us. 6 Art Stroll & Antique Appraisal Fair. Arts and crafts from local artisans; appraisals $5 for one item, $10 for three. Downtown Ponchatoula. 9am-5pm; Appraisal 9am-2pm. cityofponchatoula.com. 6 Lynn Stirling Grand Opening. Refreshments by The Lakehouse. 10am-5:30pm. Lynn Stirling Antiques, 4250 Hwy. 22, Mandeville. lynnstirling.com. 6 Mellow Fest. Benefits the Hospice

Foundation of the South. Micro Beer Tasting contest; Hotties for Hospice menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion show. Mellow Mushroom, 1645 N. Hwy. 190, Covington. 5pm-midnight. 327-5407. 6-27 Camellia City Market. Griffith Park, corner of 2nd and Erlanger Sts., Slidell. Sat., 8am-noon. Free. camelliacitymarket.org. 6-27 Mandeville Trailhead Community Market. 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville. Sat., 9am1pm. Free. mandevilletrailhead.org.

Children, $1; Adults, $5. lwccg.org. 9 Bras for a Cause. Men model decorated bras for auction to benefit breast cancer care at Slidell Memorial Hospital Foundation and the St. Tammany Hospital Foundation. Northshore Harbor Center, 100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell. 7pm-10pm. Tina Richard, 502-1961. 9-12 Murderous Innocent. Presented by Southeastern Theatre. Vonnie Borden Theatre, D Vickers Bodg-Sga Dr. SLU Campus, Hammond. southeastern.edu/fanfare.

Y 6, 20 New Family Center Tours. For prospective new parents. New Family Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1202 S. Tyler St., 3rd floor, Covington. 10am-12:05pm. Jan Waddell, 898-4536.

9-31 Stroller Safari. For children 18-36 months. Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St., New Orleans. Tue and Wed, 9:15-10:30am. $20; members, $10. auduboninstitute.org.

7 Sunset Sunday Concert. Michael White Quartet. Free concert series. Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville. 4:30-6:30pm. Free. cityofmandeville.com.

10 Capitol Steps. Former Senate staffers perform satirical political comedy. Columbia Theatre, 220 E. Thomas St., Hammond. 5434366. southeastern.edu/fanfare.

8-9 34th Annual Louisiana Wildfowl Festival. The Castine Center, 63350 Pelican Dr., Mandeville. Sat, 8am-6pm; Sun, 9am-4pm.

10, 24 Learning @ Your Library, E-reader Help. Learn about e-readers and using library databases. Oct. 10: 555 Robert Blvd., Slidell, >>

September-October 2012 31

Inside Scoop 5-7pm; Oct. 24: 310 W. 21st Ave., Covington, 2-4pm. Free. sttammany.lib.la.us. Y11 Free Child Safety Seat Inspections. The Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Ste. B, Covington. 9am-noon. 898-4435. 12 Maritime Mania Party. Kick-off party for the Madisonville Wooden Boat Festival. 7:3010:30pm. Advance tickets, call 845-9200. 12 Northlake Newcomers Luncheon. Guest speaker Ronda Gabb. Abita Quail Farm. 10am. 792-4926. 12 Parents’ Night Out. Kids ages 4 and up. Feature film: Casper’s Scare School. Culinary Kids, 3441 E. Causeway App., Mandeville. Three hours for $30. Reservations required, 727-5553. 12 Plácido Domingo. Gala performance benefitting the New Orleans Opera Association. Mahalia Jackson Theater, 1419 Basin St., New Orleans. neworleansopera.org. 12-13, 19-21, 26-28 Pippin. Musical about a young prince and heir to Charlemagne. Fri.-Sat., 8pm; Sun., 2pm. slidelllittletheatre.org. 13 Fetch! Super Science Saturday: Chemistry. Louisiana Children’s Museum, 420 Julia St., New Orleans. 11am-3pm. General admission, $8; Members, free. (504) 523-1357. 13 Madisonville Art Market. Art from local artists. Water St., Madisonville. 10am-4pm. Free. madisonvilleartmarket.com. 13 Northshore Roller Derby. Benefits St. Tammany Humane Society. Castine Center, 63350 Pelican Dr., Mandeville. 6pm. Advance tickets, $10; door, $12; 7 and under free. northshorerollerderby.com. 13-14 Madisonville Wooden Boat Festival. Mulberry St. and Water St., Madisonville. 10am6pm. Day of festival $10/person; $5 for seniors over 65; children under 12 and uniformed military personnel, free. Museum admission with festival wristband. woodboatfest.org. 13-Nov 3 Specters, Saints and Spirits: Discoveries from the New Orleans Museum of Art. Cemetery-themed artwork. St. Tammany Art Association, 320 N. Columbia St., Covington. 892-8650. info@ sttammanyartassociation.org. 32

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13, 27 Hammond Farmers Market. 200 block of S.W. Railroad Ave., Hammond. 9am2pm. Free. Terry Lynn Smith, 277-5681. 14 Culture Splash featuring the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville. 5pm. 624-3147. 14 Fairy Photo Shoot. The Silver Plum, 2891 Hwy. 190, Mandeville. 9am-2pm. $50. 674-4343. 4 Parents’ Night Out! Kids ages 4 and up. Feature film: Hocus Pocus. Culinary Kids, 3441 E. Causeway App., Mandeville. Three hours for $30. Reservations required, 727-5553. 14 Southeastern Wind Symphony: Planet Earth. Johan de Meij, composer and guest conductor. Columbia Theatre, 220 E. Thomas, Hammond. 2pm and 6pm. Reserved seats: $22 orchestra, $25 loge, $20 balcony; students, $7 with ID. columbiatheatre.org. 17 Business After Hours. West St. Tammany Chamber. Fidelity Homestead Savings Bank, 2201 N. Hwy. 190, Covington. 5:30-7pm. Members, $5; non-members, $10. Melissa Bordelon, 273-3008. Y17 Cancer Connection Support Group. St. Tammany Parish Hospital. Charles A Frederick Jr. Medical Office Complex, 1203 S. Tyler St., Covington. 7-8pm. 898-4581. 17 Northshore Rising Professionals Luncheon. West St. Tammany Chamber. University of Phoenix, 1001 Ochsner Blvd., Ste. 1000, Covington. 11:30am-1pm. $15; members, $10. Melissa Bordelon, 273-3008. 17 Opera on Tap. Casual concert. Abita Brew Pub, 72011 Holly St., Abita Springs. 7pm. Free. neworleansopera.org. 18 Newborn Care Class. Lakeview Regional Medical Center, Covington. 7-9pm. Free. lakeviewregional.com. 18 Lymphedema with Kelly Villars.. Rehab Dynamics, 103 Northpark Blvd., Suite 205, Covington. 12-1pm, lunch provided. Free. Reservations required, 871-7878. 18-21 Key to the Cure. Saks Fifth Avenue’s shopping weekend to benefit the fight against women’s cancers. Saks Fifth Avenue stores and online at saks.com. Katie Alisberg, (212) 940September-October 2012 33

Inside Scoop 5109. 19 Concerts in the Courtyard. The Palmetto Bug Stompers. The Historic New Orleans Collection, 533 Royal St., New Orleans. 6-8pm. $10; Members, free. hnoc.org. 19 Corks & Cooking for Adults! Bring your own beverages. Culinary Kids, 3441 E. Causeway App., Mandeville. Reservations required. 7275553. 19 Pasta & Puccini. Benefits JPAS. Hosted by InterContinental New Orleans. 444 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans. 6:30pm. (504) 885-2000. jpas.org. 19 Sunset at the Landing Concert. Covington Street Landing, 100 N. Columbia St., Covington. 6-9pm. Free. 892-1873. 19-21, 26-28 Driving Miss Daisy. JPAS performance.19-21, North Star Theatre, 347 Girod St., Mandeville. 26-28, Columbia Theatre, 220 E. Thomas St., Hammond. Fri.-Sat., 7:30pm; Sun., 2pm. Child (12 and under), $15; Student (with valid ID), $20; Senior (65+), $27; Adult, $30. jpas.org.

Y20 Brain Injury Connections. Brain injury support group. St. Tammany Parish Hospital, 1202 S. Tyler St., Covington. 9:30am-noon. Ann T. Mejia, 640-0498. 20 Exhibit and Sale of hand-painted and fire porcelain. DuBuisson Gallery, 300 Robert St., Slidell. 10am-5pm. Free. Christy Lassalle, 863-5364. 20 Fall for Art. Art, music, entertainment, food, drinks and shopping. Downtown Covington. 6-9pm. 892-8650. 20 Family Dinner Night! Culinary Kids, 3441 E. Causeway App., Mandeville. 5-6:30pm. $12 per person, bring your own beverages. Call for menu and to make a reservation, 727-5553. 20 First Annual Old Towne Pumpkin Fest. Hosted by the Leadership Northshore Class of 2012 to benefit East St. Tammany Rainbow Child Care Center. First United Methodist Church, 433 Erlanger, Slidell. 11am-3pm. Barbara Doyle, 290-6939. 20 Japan Fest. Martial arts, performances,

exhibits and activities. 10am. New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, New Orleans. (504) 658-4100. noma.org. Y20 Monster Mash. Benefits STPH Parenting Center. All day, fun family festival featuring music, food, games, prizes, auction, trick-or-treating, inflatables and much more! Bogue Falaya Park, Covington. 10am-3pm. $15 per child in advance; $20 per child at the gate; $10 per adult. stph.org/ monstermash. 20 Pilobus. New Orleans Ballet Association. Mahalia Jackson Theater, 1419 Basin St., New Orleans. 8pm. NOBA, (504) 522-0996, ext. 201. nobadance.com. 20 Ponchatoula’s Party in the Pits. IBCAcertified “State Championship” BBQ cook-off event. Memorial Park, Hammond. 10am-5pm. (800) 617-4502. 21 Amy Thiaville and Yui Asano. Third Sunday Concert Series. Christ Episcopal Church, 120 S. New Hampshire St., Covington. 5pm. Free. 892-3177. 21 Harvest Club Polo Classic 2012. Junior

League of Greater Covington fundraiser. Leah Farms, Folsom. General admission, $100 each; reserved table for six, $750; VIP lounge access, $25. jlcg.net. 21 Jazz ’N Roll. 22nd annual concert and raffle. St. Paul’s School, 917 S. Jahncke Ave., Covington. 5-9pm. $60/person. stpauls.com.

26 B2B. St. Tammany West Chamber. Networking opportunity to pitch your business. Chamber office, 610 Hollycrest Blvd., Covington. 8-9am. Free. Melissa Bordelon, 273-3008. 26 Columbia Street Block Party. Street festival and classic car display. 200-500 blocks of Columbia St., Covington. 6:30-9:30pm. Free. 892-1873.

and family fun. 1007 Pine St., Madisonville. 10am-3pm. Free. mandevillerotary.org. 27 TerraBella Pumpkins-In-The-Park. Free family event. Pumpkin patch, hay rides and more. TerraBella Village, Hwy. 1085, Covington. 11am3pm. terrabellavillage.com.

26 St. Stanislaus Open House. 304 S. Beach Blvd., Bay St. Louis, Miss. Ststan.com.

27 Third Annual Boo Fest. Trick-or-treating, games, pumpkin decorating, face painting, entertainment, Halloween costume contest, chili cook off. Lakeview Regional Medical Center, 95 Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington. 10am-3pm. Free. 788-6335.

24-27 OctoberFeast. Celebration of Bernard de Marigny. Wine dinners, music, Saturday morning Fun Run and a Grand Food and Wine Tasting. Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville. 624-3147.

27 Deo Gratias. Saint Joseph Abbey, 75376 River Rd., Covington. Vespers, 6pm; dining with John Folse at 7pm; party at 8pm. $75. saintjosephabbey.com.

27-28 Olde Towne Slidell Fall Antique Street Fair. Live music, antiques, arts, crafts, food and drink. First, Second and Erlanger Streets. 10am-5pm. 641-6316.

25 Chamber after Hours. Brandon Thompson Funeral Homes, 1190 Hwy 51 North, Ponchatoula. 5:30-7pm. cityofponchatoula.com.

27 Lethal Ladies play Mississippi Brawl Stars. Columbus Fairgrounds, Hwy. 69, Columbus, Miss. info@northshorerollerderby.com.

28 Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5. First Baptist Church, Covington. 7:30pm. LPOmusic.com.

25 Ken Waldman. Alaska’s fiddling poet, joined by Cajun musicians for a literary and musical performance. Slidell Municipal Auditorium. 8am. slidell.la.us.

27 Northlake-Mandeville Rotary Club’s Chili Cook-off and Family Fair. Benefits Safe Harbor, Support Our War Heroes and New Heights Therapy Center. Food, music

Y31 Alzheimer’s Support Group. For caregivers. St. Tammany Parish Hospital Paul D. Cordes Outpatient Pavilion, 16300 Hwy. 1085, Covington. Noon-1:30pm. 898-4468.

23-27 Spooky Week. Louisiana Children’s Museum, 420 Julia St., New Orleans. 9:30am5pm. General admission, $8; Members, free. (504) 523-1357.

with Ysonde Strecker AS A MOTHER OF FOUR YOUNG children, Ysonde Strecker never imagined she would be diagnosed with breast cancer at age 36. While breastfeeding her 13-month-old baby, she noticed a red, inflamed bump in her right breast. After a trip to the doctor and a diagnosis of mastitis, Ysonde was sent home and continued to nurse. When the bump in her breast didn’t go away, she assumed it was a clogged milk duct. At her next annual appointment, a mammogram and ultrasound revealed the lump in her breast was indeed cancer. “When I heard the results, I was in shock,” says Ysonde. Although both of her grandmothers had breast cancer, she never thought she would inherit it, especially at such a young age. 36 Inside Northside

by Kaley Boudreaux Ysonde’s OBGYN referred her to Dr. Celeste Lagarde in Covington for treatment. “Ysonde’s situation is unique because she was young, not overweight and healthy,” Dr. Lagarde states. Despite the family history, Ysonde tested negative for the breast cancer gene. The tumor in her breast appeared to be noninvasive and could be removed Health Concern: with surgery. To Breast Cancer ensure that it would Treatment: Surgery, not return later in chemotherapy and life, she decided radiation. to have a double mastectomy and full reconstruction. Feeling optimistic, Ysonde went in for surgery on June 28, 2011. Dr. Lagarde tested one of Ysonde’s lymph nodes during surgery to determine if the cancer was spreading. Unfortunately, the lymph node came back positive. After stopping the procedure to speak with Ysonde’s husband, Dr. Lagarde removed a total of 16 cancerous lymph nodes. Waking up from surgery and learning the news that her cancer had spread, Ysonde’s first thoughts were, “It wasn’t supposed to be like this. It was supposed to be very easy.” She had expected a cure from the surgery alone, but instead was now faced with chemotherapy and radiation. She made the decision not to feel defeated and to “take charge” of the cancer. “Everything happens for a reason.,” Ysonde says. “I have very strong faith and a great support group from family and friends. I knew we could get through this,” Ysonde says. Dr. Lagarde referred Ysonde to the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Covington, where she began her first round of chemotherapy. Although Ysonde handled the treatments well, the nausea that accompanied the chemotherapy was a struggle. “Luckily, I was nauseated during all my pregnancies, so I treated it as pregnancy nausea. This pulled me through a little bit easier,” she says. Ysonde relied on the help of her friends and family, especially her husband, mother and motherin-law. They would help with the children and even sit with her during chemotherapy, which sometimes lasted six hours. She says, “Throughout the process, my husband and I were most concerned about our

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

IN Better Health

kids. I didn’t want them to be scared about all of this. We kept them informed and answered any questions with the truth.” To help her children feel more comfortable in an uncomfortable situation, Ysonde invited them to shave her head when her hair started falling out. “I ended up losing my hair in September. My husband and I let our children shave both of our heads to make it a family fun activity. I told my kids to grab a pair of scissors, and we even video-taped it. They had a party cutting mom’s hair. Not once were they ever scared or afraid of what was happening to mom.” After chemo ended, Ysonde started her 30 treatments of radiation. She claims that this was much easier than chemo. She went five days a week and could drive herself. Ysonde kept a positive attitude throughout her treatment. “My friends told me if it wasn’t for me being bald, nobody would have known I was sick. I’ve become a much stronger person, and I’ve learned not to take things for granted and enjoy everything you have and the people around you. My husband was my strongest support during all of this. I can’t thank him enough.” Ysonde prides herself on setting a good example for her children. “This was a wonderful learning experience for them. They learned that material and petty things don’t matter. I don’t think were they concerned about me even once.” Ysonde has returned to her normal routine of working part-time as a dental hygienist and chauffeuring the children to school and extra-curricular activities. On June 28, 2012, she celebrated her oneyear anniversary of being cancer-free. September-October 2012 37

Coastal Chic

by Poki Hampton

Caribbean ceiling fans provide a soft breeze in the second living room. A large linen slipcovered sectional and chaise make for a comfortable gathering place for the family.

Inside Northside

EVA TRADER BOLDLY RANG the doorbell of a house she loved. After years of admiring the house, she wanted to buy it. “It’s funny,” says Eva, “but the unusual coppery color of the roof tiles is what first attracted me.” She caught the seller in just the right mood, and soon the beautiful Mediterranean-style home in Slidell’s Lakeshore Estates was hers. With the addition of two bedrooms and a new bath, the now-10,000square-foot home was ready for Eva’s family of eight to move in. Her sophisticated style, paired with coastal elements, can be found in each room. A subdued palette of sand, cream and taupe runs throughout and lends a peaceful ambience to the house. With six children coming and going, the two-story entrance is in a constant whirlwind of activities. The grand space is punctuated at the front by tall arched windows fitted with iron scrollwork, an accent repeated in other spaces. The black high-gloss player piano is nestled in the curve of the main staircase, highlighted by three oversized cream-colored candlesticks. The primary hues of the jazz painting above the piano add a splash of color to the otherwise subtle palette. An iron-and-wood balustrade ascends the tile staircase to the second floor. On the opposite wall, two white upholstered chairs and a small threelegged table sit in front of a marble fireplace. A 36-inch plaster angel is in a niche above the fireplace in front of an arched mirror. From the foyer, one has a view of the pool, patio and boat dock beyond. Huge bronze sliding doors framed by copper-colored silk draperies open onto the pool area, allowing gentle breezes to blow off >>

September-October 2012 39

The two-story entrance holds a high-gloss babygrand player piano, which plays as the family comes and goes throughout their busy day.

the water. The 18-inch-square porcelain tile runs throughout the house. An antique Oushak rug in copper, sage and cream anchors the floor. The kitchen is large and well-placed in the home, with a spacious linear island for seating and serving on the front edge. Six barstools in a Louis

XVI style are painted in a distressed white finish. An octagonal-shaped island on the interior is very functional, as well. Black Emerald Pearl granite tops maple cabinets with antique brass hardware. Three petit white chandeliers with tiny crystals hang over the center island. A mocha wire epergne holds fresh fruit for the many guests to help themselves. The main living room is just off the kitchen and holds an oversized white slipcovered sofa and four slipcovered chairs, two in Above: A white white linen and two in a taupe-with-white crewel linen slipcovered fabric. Faced with the same black granite, the fireplace chair and ottoman has a multitude of smaller cubbies and antique-cypress sit restfully under a cabinet doors, making an interesting fireplace surround Gretchen Armbruster that holds family pictures and other objets dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;art. In painting. Left: Two front of the fireplace, a huge wooden candelabrum white upholstered holds pillar candles. The cocktail table is carved and French-style chairs sit distressed gold-leafed wood with a travertine top. A in front of a fireplace white hewn wooden angel, standing over 8 feet tall, is niche, complete with in one corner; the angel theme is repeated in a painting an arched mirror and by Covington artist Gretchen Armbruster. >> a large plaster angel. September-October 2012 41

Top: The master bedroom has a large Louis XV-style armoire that holds Eva’s collection of fashion accessories. Left: Eva Michelle Trader. Right: A little girl’s sanctuary. 42

The scroll iron window inserts are custom made. Two Caribbean Palm ceiling fans cool the large room. Eva’s desk is a carved and distressed mirrored piece from Tara Shaw; the desk chair is upholstered in burnished glazed alligator. A distressed driftwoodcolored trumeau mirror hangs above a creamy white iron-and-concrete sideboard. On the console is a glass-and-gilt relic box dating back to the 18th century. Beside it, a large vase holds driftwood-colored curly willow. The second living room is also spacious, with a slipcovered sectional and chairs and matching Caribbean fans. A corner bar with a granite countertop provides a place to entertain guests. The cocktail table holds an oversized clam shell, adding to the oceanic theme. A 4-foot-tall Betty Boop statue anchors a corner and catches the eye. “The children bought that for me for Christmas a couple

Inside Northside

of years ago,” says Eva. “They hid it under the palm trees outside with a camouflage blanket for weeks. I never saw it.” A mottled white trunk is embellished with silver studs and used as a table in front of another small slipcovered sofa. With six children and their friends hanging out watching television, seating is very important. “One of the things I love most is that these slipcovers are very washable,” says Eva knowingly. A large china cabinet in distressed white holds her collection of cream-colored Italian stoneware. The master bedroom is a study in tranquility. The walls are painted a deep sand color. The king-sized bed, with its highly carved and gilded headboard, is dressed in Bella Notte linens. A

nude by Phil Galatas hangs on the far wall next to a Louis XV-style armoire from British Traditions, which holds Eva’s handbags and accessories. Under the Galatas painting sit two contemporary chairs, also upholstered in white linen. The Louis XV settee at the end of the bed is upholstered in white linen to match the round ottoman. The end tables are painted Louis XV-style and hold tall carved wooden lamps with burlap shades. The rug is another antique Oushak. The guest room is high fashion with a black-and-cream color palette that creates a very sophisticated look. Black-and-white portraits of Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn hang above mirrored bedside tables, while a black contemporary lamp adds drama. An antique mirrored headboard with a carved shell motif brings a bit of the coastal element to this room. The contemporary custom-made makeup dresser with a Louis XV fauteuil upholstered in white ostrich completes the very refined look. Eva’s 9-year-old daughter helped to create her own special sanctuary. Pink and white with a touch of chartreuse make it a little girl’s dream. The fabric canopy crown piped in hot pink and gauze curtains frame the ornate white carved headboard. The bed covers include a pin-tucked hot pink throw, a duvet and bed skirt in gauzy white linen and pink-monogrammed white Euro pillows. Off-white mirrored end tables flank the bed and are topped with contemporary lamps with hot pink shades. An antique dressing table and mirror are painted white. A tiny pink and white chandelier hangs in the corner. An antique dress form complete with a pink tutu says “little princess.” Although this house is grand in scale, Eva’s touch and sense of family make it feel intimate and cozy. September-October 2012 43

Couture for a Cause

For individual tickets to the fashion show luncheon, contact Nicole Suhre at 898-4171. Tickets are $150 each. 44

A STYLISH AFTERNOON AND EVENING of Couture for a Cause in support of St. Tammany Parish Hospital’s pediatric initiative await 500 expected guests on Thursday, Sept. 20, at Tchefuncta Country Club in Covington. For the fourth year, the St. Tammany Hospital Foundation, Saks Fifth Avenue and Inside Northside have teamed up to present the 2012 Heart of Fashion and Night of Fashion, which highlight

Inside Northside

the northshore’s only true New York-style runway show at a cocktail luncheon and dinner. This year, in addition to surprise giveaways and fabulous gifts for every guest, the Heart of Fashion plays host to a unique online silent auction of the favorite items selected by well-known northshore residents (see details on the following pages) and the Night of Fashion features an exciting live auction. Over the past three years, Couture for a Cause has raised over $500,000 for the St. Tammany Hospital Foundation. Since 2010, the events have supported the advancement of pediatrics at the hospital. The 2012 chairs, Lendon Noel and Jeanine Riecke, are both parents of young children—and both are passionate about this cause. “St. Tammany offers such stellar care to the children of our community with their dedicated pediatric unit and neonatal intensive care unit,” says Lendon. “Jeanine and I are so excited to be part of this effort to fund a future plan for expanded and specialized care.”

photos: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Heart of Fashion • Night of Fashion

Opposite: (standing) Heart of Fashion committee members Elizabeth Stokes, Brenda Breck, Lori Murphy and STPH president and CEO Patti Ellish; (seated) committee members Jeté Crosby, Allyson Sanderson, Lisa Goux, Melissa Paretti, Jeanine Riecke, Lendon Noel, Debra Ethridge, Saks Fifth Avenue general manager Carolyn Elder, committee member Annette Dowdle and Jennifer Rice. Opposite below: Heart of Fashion co-chairs Jeanine Riecke and Lendon Noel with Saks Fifth Avenue general manger Carolyn Elder and director of marketing and public relations Steven Putt.

Ten Favorite Things Ever dream of walking in someone else’s shoes just for a day or two? Now you can! The “10 Favorite Things” silent auction concept developed by committee members Jeté Crosby and Annette Dowdle brings a fresh new component to the Heart of Fashion event this fall. Best of all, everyone can participate! The auction features packages designed by some of the northshore’s most notable people, including Chef John Besh, professional golfer Kelly Gibson, Parish President Pat Brister and many others. Play it cool as you bid to enjoy the things they can’t live

And they’re not the only ones. David and Carolyn Briggs of Madisonville have been the Haute Couture title sponsor of Heart of Fashion since its inception. “St. Tammany Hospital is committed to delivering the highest level of professional care and state-of-the-art physical facilities,” David says. “My wife and I feel our support for the hospital is helping make possible Carolyn and David Briggs. critical services that every member of the community must have and can access close to home.” Laurie McCants has been a member of the Foundation’s board for many years. She and her husband, Wayne, are this year’s Haute Couture title sponsor of Night of Fashion through her dealership, Laurie and Wayne McCants. Honda of Covington. “The title sponsorship allows me the opportunity to give back to the new pediatric advancement initiative, and I am happy to be involved as this amazing new project evolves,” Laurie says. “I cannot imagine another project that would benefit all of the families here in St. Tammany Parish more.”

without. The packages include items from each of the featured donor’s “must-have” list. The next few pages give some highlights, but online you can see the complete details. Favorite things include dreams such as flying lessons with Fly By Knight in Hammond from Jennifer Rice or a personal training package and six-month Franco’s membership, courtesy of Sandy Franco, to keep you looking your absolute best. All 10 items are included in the package and cannot be bid on separately. Keep all 10 treasures to yourself, or if you can, share with friends and family! Maybe next year they’ll outbid YOU and return the favor. The Heart of Fashion and Night of Fashion events benefit the advancement of pediatric initiatives at St. Tammany Parish Hospital. Together, we are providing for a better future for the children of our community. To bid, visit www.biddingforgood.com/HOF to view items and to place your online bid. Online bidding ends on Monday, Sept. 17. Bidders do not need to be guests of the Heart of Fashion and Night of Fashion in order to bid.

Good luck!

September-October 2012 45

These generous hearts offer auction packages of the ten things they can’t live without.

John Besh

After many years of enjoying wines from the Northern Rhone, John Besh knows that Etienne and Marcel Guigal’s La Turque embodies all the elegance of the famed region. While enjoying a glass of this delicious wine, cut up vegetables with a set of Shun knives and cook up something wonderful from your signed copies of My New Orleans or My Family Table (both signed by John) in a large Le Creuset French Oven like the one John used in his national PBS series. Stir it all up with a great wooden spoon from OXO. John enjoys all that the local area has to offer, including wearing a pair of Le Chameau boots

from George Bass that fit just right to hunt like a king and have dinner with seven of your best friends at Covey Rise Farm in Husser, La. Swap your boots for a jersey, because nothing beats sitting courtside to cheer on our New Orleans Hornets. Follow the game with dinner at John’s newest restaurant, Borgne. Stay for two nights at the Hyatt and enjoy meals at Besh Restaurant Group restaurants. After the hustle and bustle of the city, enjoy a peaceful sunrise while catching speckled trout on a fishing trip for two with Captain Dudley Vandenborre, aka “Deadly Dudley.”

Package value: $7,000. Place your bids online at biddingforgood.com/HOF by September 17. 46

Inside Northside

photos: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Bid online at biddingforgood.com/HOF

Want to get away from it all? Included in Jennifer’s package is a seven-night cruise for two, on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines to a destination of your choice…Caribbean, Alaska or Europe. Say bon voyage with a magnum of Veuve Cliquot Champagne to celebrate. While you’re gone, send the pooches to WonderDog Farms for a five-day training session. Pretend you are Amelia Earhart while taking flying lessons from Fly By Knight in Hammond, looking ever so chic in your luxurious Hermes silk scarf. You’ll never have a better view of a game than on the Lower Club Level at the 50-yard line with the two Saints tickets included in the package. No need to worry about parking as a pass is also included. When you get home, an olive jar from Antiques des Provence in the Vieux Carre will dress up your front porch. Jennifer supports the Benedictine monks at St. Joseph Abbey by offering a handcrafted casket as a donation. She and her husband, Tim, have been playing polo as long as they have been married. Learn to play with four lessons from pro Manuel Diaz de Vivar, and be Jennifer’s guest at the Harvest Cup Polo Match in October. Be among the first guests at the newly renovated Southern Hotel in Covington.

Package value: $15,000.

The Look of Fashion Friday, September 14 9a.m. - 3p.m. Book any service at the H2O Salon in Mandeville and 50 percent of the proceeds will benefit the advancement of pediatric care at St. Tammany Hospital. Call Phoebe at 951-8166 x103 to book your appointment.

photo: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

Jennifer Rice

Heather Mahoney Heather Mahoney, owner of H20 Salon in Mandeville, starts each day with the word of God and a cup of PJ’s Columbia Supremo. Her strategy for living well starts with the basics. A visit to Dr. Barbara Bopp helps you to look younger and glowing. Master your makeup with a professional makeup lesson with Chris Lombardo. To practice what you have learned, head to Saks Fifth Avenue to score an eye makeup bundle, including the perfect new shimmer shade. Let Angelique dress you from head to toe before you have lunch with friends at Commander’s Palace. Show off your new jewelry from Friend & Company. And while you are still looking like a rock star, have a photo shoot with Cynthia Kehoe. Spend three nights at the Cal A Vie health spa in Vista, Calif., basking in the beautiful scenery and pampering. Home designer Trudy Hurley works toward approachable beauty with classic elements and a gift card from her will help you refine your style. Get healthy and happy with a visit to Dr. Kashi Rai to obtain a complete level of healing while promoting self-awareness and self-empowerment.

Package value: $5,700.

September-October 2012 47

Wally Rosenblum What lucky man will be dressed by Wally Rosenblum? Wally’s exceptional taste will outfit you with a custom hand-crafted sport or dress shirt that has been made by artisans in the United States. Pair it with a custom seven-fold luxurious Italian silk tie. Wally will also fit you into a pair of broken-in jeans coordinated with a buttery-soft pima cotton polo, a dry-fit t-shirt and a soft baseball cap, all from Craberdashery. Complete the look with a belt of American alligator, full-quill South African ostrich or hornback crocodile made in the U.S., of course. Be in line at the Hive with tickets in hand for opening night of the Hornets season. Enjoy a two-night stay, with breakfast, at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel. Take along the ultimate classic bottle of Oban 14-year old single-malt scotch and a signed copy of head coach Sean Payton’s book to read after you have two melting, relaxing massages at the Spa Aria at the Hotel Monteleone on Royal Street. Package value: $2,800.

Christmas is Patti Ellish’s favorite time of year. During the holidays, take your family to New Orleans, stay at the Loews Hotel for two nights and enjoy the zoo with an Audubon Experience Package for four. Enjoy Christmas Tea in Le Salon in the Windsor Court Hotel. Nestled back at home, create a special Christmas tradition with Elf on a Shelf, a special hide-and-seek tradition that is perfect for children and families. Scents always remind us of the holidays, and a diffuser is just the way to make your home smell great. Decorate your tree with a Mark Roberts Christmas fairy collectible figure and of course, the German “pickle” ornament. According to German tradition, the pickle brings good luck and was the last ornament to be placed on the tree. The first child to find the pickle was rewarded with a special gift. Proudly hang an original Christmas painting by Suzy Capitelli on your wall while listening to Michael Buble’s Christmas CD. Serve your favorite holiday goodies on Lenox’s Twelve Days of Christmas platter.

Package value: $1,200.

Place your bids online at biddingforgood.com/HOF by September 17. 48

Inside Northside

photos: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Patti Ellish

Sandy Franco Sandy Franco’s life is a whirlwind of activity. Her family is her lifeline—and what better way to keep them with you than a family portrait by Fannie St. Cyr. Sandy starts her day with quiet time, reading her Touch Point Bible from Simple Goodness. Getting ready for the day, where every minute counts, requires an unbelievable hair dryer; the Bio-Ionic Conditioning Hair Dryer from Kent Jacob fills the bill. The Red Carpet Treatment from OSpa and Kent Jacob Hair Salon will make you look and feel great. Sandy believes having a personal trainer for an awesome workout is the way to get fit. A personal training package and a six-month Franco’s membership are included in her package. Re-create that spa feeling at home with bamboo sheets and duvet cover from the Lifestyle Store at Franco’s, and slip into a PJ Harlow sleepwear set for a restful night’s sleep while the scents of Archipelago’s Kashmir candle fill the room. Now that you are refreshed, head to the city for a two-night stay at the Windsor Court Hotel and catch a Saints game before heading home.

Package value: $5,200.

Matt Voelkel Matt Voelkel begins each day with a flair pen in one hand and an iced coffee from Coffee Rani in the other, sketching away his designs. Inspiration comes to Matt in many forms, but reading Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson and listening to December by George Winston are two of them. The clean, fresh scent of a Beach House Candle completes his sensory experience. Clean interior space is what Matt is all about. Enjoy reading Contemporary Architecture and Interiors. Matt likes to incorporate hand-made items, such as the included custom iron candelabra, in his interiors. Wear your St. Paul’s football cap to a cocktail party given by Matt and his wife, Mimi, for 20 guests of your choice in their home, complete with Gray Goose martinis with anchovy stuffed olives.

Package value: $4,100.

September-October 2012 49

Vikki Leftwich Because girls just want to have fun, Vikki Leftwich wants you to take your friends out for the evening on a three-hour limo ride in High Maintenance’s hot pink H-2 Hummer limo. A case of Ridge 2009 Three Valleys Zinfandel from Martin Wine Cellar will go a long way toward entertaining your friends. You can look like a movie star wearing your fabulous pair of limited edition Fendi sunglasses from Eyewares. Traveling is a favorite pastime of Vikki’s, and she cannot leave home without her silk trench coat. Buy yours with a Fleurt gift certificate and look great in your new, perfectly-fitted jeans from T. on Magazine Street. Vikki’s feet love her most comfortable running shoes that were fitted to her feet at Massey’s in Covington. Get yours with a gift certificate, or relax in Haviana flip-flops from Laurier in Covington that never leave blisters and are great for getting through airport security quickly. A new bracelet from Laurier completes your look. Bra Genie is the place to find comfortable Cosa Bella boycut lace undies. Last, but certainly not least, what could be better than a shopping spree from Vikki’s own and favorite shop, Villla Vici. A generous gift certificate goes a long way to re-decorating a room.

Package value: $4,900.

Rhonda Baldone M.D. and Rachel Reina M.D. Doctors Rhonda Baldone and Rachel Reina have spent their professional lives making people more beautiful. Botox relaxes the skin while Derma fillers plump the skin to smooth lines. They believe a Clairsonic Pro Brush is essential for everyone. TNS Essential Serum is their “go-to” product, and Jane Iredale Makeup with Elta MD Aero Sunsreen, along with Jouorné anti-aging cream, are a must for day-time use. While looking good, take off for Baton Rouge and a Tigers game this fall. A piece of Saints or LSU jewelry will be a great addition to any outfit on game day. And when you get home, cuddle up with the family in a Saints Snuggie.

Package value: $3,000. 50

Inside Northside

Pat Brister As Parish President, Pat Brister loves all things St. Tammany. Each year, Pat’s daughter gives her a photograph of her grandchildren by Katherine Bentz. Let Bentz help you create memories with your own family photoshoot. Using your year-long family pass, have the picture taken on the new St. Tammany Fishing Pier on Lake Pontchartrain south of Slidell. Then have lunch at Palmetto’s on Bayou Bonfouca. After a guided tour on horseback at Splendor Farms in Bush, you will have a huge appetite! Head to Coffee Rani in Covington. Later in the evening, dance barefoot in the grass by the light of the moon with three friends at Pontchartrain Vineyards during a Jazz ’N the Vines concert. After whirling around St. Tammany, relax with a massage, manicure and facial at the OSpa at Franco’s Athletic Club in Mandeville. Finish your day watching the boats go by at lunch at Friend’s restaurant overlooking the historic Tchefuncte River. And next spring, enjoy more of St. Tammany’s finest cuisine at Chef’s Soirée, one of the parish’s premier events, which supports the Youth Services Bureau.

photos: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Package value: $1,500.

Place your bids online at biddingforgood.com/HOF by September 17.

September-October 2012 51

Alice McNeely Artist Alice McNeely loves to give back to the northshore community through her original artwork. Let Alice start your collection with one of her pieces. One of her favorite artists is Craig McMillin, whose fabulous French-blue cracked and glazed platter will grace your wall. If you love to paint, Mo’s Art Supply in Covington will help with supplies. Listen to music on your “George” desktop iPod docking station from MobileOne. Be creative and enjoy a bottle of handselected wine from Adam Aquistapace. Alice gets a lot of painting done when her girls are away at Camp Riverview for Girls for the summer. Your daughter can make lifetime friends and memories at a one-week session in 2013. Re-design a room in your house with style guru Jeffery McNeely and a gift certificate from Home and Garden in Covington. Before heading across the lake for dinner at Mr. B’s Bistro, go for a day at the Spa at Stone Creek Club and Spa. Have Heather Mahoney at H2O Salon create a new you with color, cut, style and make-up. You will look amazing!

Package value: $7,500.

Beverly McQuaid begins and ends each day in prayer. A cross from Simply Southern gives her daily peace, and then a cup of fresh, crisp coffee from PJ’s gets her going! Enjoy coffee from PJ’s donated by the Richards family. Keep your skin beautiful with Skin Medica TNS Essential Face Serum and a Derma-brasion Face Peel from Skin Solutions. Keep you hair perfectly silky and soft with a Kerastase Elixer Kultime treatment and blowout from H2O Salon and Spa in Metairie. Store your Escala Sunglasses from Ban Soliel in your new Elaine Turner bag from Brenchley’s while packing for your four-day cruise for two to Cozumel, Mexico, which was donated by Wendelstedt Umpire School. A quick trip to Laurier in Covington is a must for those lastminute items. A seascape by artist Emery Clark will be a constant reminder of your trip. Back home, work off the trip with an individual training session at Lift Training Studio. Package value: $2,000. Place your bids online at biddingforgood.com/HOF 52

Inside Northside

photos: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Beverly McQuaid

Place your bids online at biddingforgood.com/HOF

Renee Maloney and Cathy Deano Renee Maloney and Cathy Deano invite you for a wine dinner for four at the Lakehouse in Mandeville. Wear a comfortable, artistic and stylish outfit from California Drawstings. Accessorize with a special piece of jewelry created by Cheryl Finegan of Virgin, Saints and Angels in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Add to your collection of John Hodge pottery and have Francie Rich paint a fun creative painting of your favorite pooch. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave out the family. Ryan Perea will paint a family portrait for posterity. Everyone loves a trip to the beach. Pack a luxurious gift basket from Earthsavers, some new books from Barnes and Noble and a bottle of Dom Perignon, and you are ready for a fiveday stay in a two-bedroom condo in Destin. Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a beach!

Package value: $4,500.

photos: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Kelly Gibson Doing what you love is everyone’s lifelong dream. Pro golfer Kelly Gibson wants to share his dream with you by treating you to a round of golf for four at TPC Louisiana. Crack open a bottle of Crystal Head Vodka and a bottle of Zaya Gran Reserve Rum to help you play 18 holes. If you’re a little rusty and are in need of a lesson, Kelly will teach you and two friends at Tchefuncta Country Club. He will even play a round with the three of you. Your new Taylor Made Rossa Tour Custom Putter will surely help your game. Kelly will help your youngster, ages 7-18, learn golf with a spot in the Kelly Gibson 2013 Junior Golf Camp at TPC Louisiana. If watching is your style, enjoy two weekly passes to the Zurich Classic in New Orleans. Dance the night away with your special someone, at the Kelly Gibson Foundation “Night of Jazz” event. To avoid the drive home after a wonderful evening, enjoy a one-night stay at Harrah’s Hotel New Orleans. When the Saints are away, Kelly and his wife, Elizabeth, would like to entertain you and eight guests at their home with a tailgate party, including food and drink. Wear one of your two autographed Saints jerseys, signed by Marques Colston and Saints Hall of Famer and all-time great, Morton Anderson.

Package value: $4,900.

Angele and Laurie Sica Sisters Angele and Laurie Sica want you to start each morning with a cup of Starbucks coffee and classes at Pure Barre. A quick styling at Air Blow Dry salon makes you look great in record time. Wear the perfect wrap dress from ReElle in Mandeville. Accessorize with a necklace from local artist P S Designs and a handbag from DVF. One rainy day, head to the Oasis Spa for a day of beauty. Be sure to wear your Hunter rain boots from Electra. Later that evening, relax with a bottle of Prosecco and the scents of a Hazelnut Signature Candle from Sweet Berries.

Package value: $2,000.

Holli Gaspard also suggests starting your day with a large mug of Starbuck’s coffee and assorted goodies. You will look stunning when you head off for lunch at Vega, wearing your Gucci sunglasses and bright white T-shirt from EM’s on Metairie Road. Your Brenchley’s handbag will get everyone’s attention. Pick up a few things on your way home to make your day even better—fresh flowers from Federico’s, a movie and book from Barnes and Noble, a quote plaque from Donna Hilton Art and an art box from Little Miss Mufffin. At home, give your face a treat by washing with your lavender scrub and Clarisonic from H2O Salon and Spa on Metairie Road. Before retiring for the night, read a few passages of scripture from your new black leather-bound Bible. Tomorrow—lunch at Byblos. Ahhhh!

Package value: $1,700. Place your bids online at biddingforgood.com/HOF by September 17. 56

Inside Northside

photos: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Holli Gaspard

Will Boudreaux

Christian Louboutin’s Red Soles

you can stand. Wine has become a passion for the Boudreauxs because of the wonderful memories they created while honeymooning in Sonoma Valley. He would like to give you a bottle of his favorite wine, Quintessa, and a gift certificate to Martin Wine Cellar. Will was part of the winning national tennis team from Franco’s. Franco’s Head Pro, Ray Shahag, would love to teach you to play like a pro with a Personal Tennis Lesson/Clinic Combo Pack. Will likes to shop at Rosenblum’s, which always has the latest “must-have” items. Shop there with a gift certificate. Will’s business, Netchex, is offering a whole suite of solutions to your business payroll. He has bled purple and gold since the early ’80s, and he wants you to have the same experience with two tickets to the Stadium Club for the Sept. 29 Towson game in Death Valley.

The iconic red soles say the same thing in any language: Louboutin. But more than their sole color and unique details, it’s the passion behind each design that makes his shoes a favorite of stylish women around the world. Born in Paris in 1963, the youngest of four children, Christian Louboutin had three older sisters who helped him develop an appreciation for fashion and femininity. His obsession with shoes, however, began when he was 13 years old. Wanting to create something unique that would make women feel confident and empowered, he began sketching shoes and was drawn into the fashion world. After traveling to Egypt and India to explore other cultures, during the 1980s Louboutin was associated with some of Paris’ top couture houses. In November 1991, he opened his first boutique under the Louboutin name. Louboutin’s mission has always been to create luxury footwear for women that make them look sexy and beautiful and make their legs look as long as possible. He now has 40 stores around the world and sells more than 60,000 pairs of shoes a year—definitely “Mission Accomplished.”

Package value: $9,500.

Christian Louboutin presents his current and Resort 2013 footwear collections exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue in New Orleans. Friday, October 19, 2012 2:00 – 4:00 pm

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Place your bids online at biddingforgood.com/HOF by September 17.

Will Boudreaux starts each day with a workout at Franco’s Athletic Club, followed by a cup of coffee with his buddies. Join him for a 90-day membership to Franco’s and use a gift card to the grill for your morning coffee. Will’s great love of the beach prompted him and his wife, Shelly, to buy a home and carriage house in Rosemary Beach that sleeps 10-12. A oneweek stay, complete with amenities, is part of his package. Before you go, learn to paddle board with a three-hour private paddle board tour of Lake Pontchartrain with Will and his friend Tommy Crosby. Top off the day with a champagne lunch at the end of the ride. Want to improve your musical skills? Four guitar or piano lessons taught by no other than Jim Payne of Better Than Ezra can be yours. Will and his friend Will Trist love to cook and entertain and invite you to join them and 50 of your closest friends to feast on jambalaya or gumbo along with all the jokes

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE The Shops at Canal Place Designer Shoe Salon on Two 301 Canal Street For more information, call Steven Putt at (504) 4320077 or Denise Trahant at (504) 524-2200, ext 5228. September-October 2012 59

Inside Northside

e d Co ker a e Br Marigold McNeely’s secret role in World War II

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

inset imgage: COURTESY OF MARIGOLD MCNEELY

by Megan Hill

WHEN MARIGOLD MCNEELY WAS JUST 13 years old, World War II broke out in Europe. Just a few years later, McNeely would play a role in the war that was critically important— and remained top secret—for decades. Even in her quiet hometown of Somerset, England, McNeely heard bombs drop and saw their destruction. “Only when the German planes were jettisoning their bombs to get back to Germany were we sometimes targeted,” the soft-spoken Covington resident says. “I can remember coming home from school and seeing great big bomb craters and pieces of furniture hanging up in the trees.” At 17, McNeely joined the Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRNS, pronounced “Wrens”). “During the war, all the girls and boys were called up when they were 18 if you hadn’t volunteered,” she says. “And I didn’t want to go in a factory, which was one of the options. So I volunteered for the navy.” The navy interviewed and tested all the new

recruits extensively in order to place them at various posts. Though she’s not sure what their requirements were, something about her stood out. “You had to be able to keep secrets. I know they gave us some psychological tests, but I don’t know what they were looking for,” she says. “I didn’t know where I was going, or what I was going to do.” McNeely was eventually placed at Bletchley Park, code-named Station X, the site of Britain’s top-secret codebreaking operations. The Germans encrypted transmissions on troop and supply movement using a sort of high-tech typewriter called an Enigma machine. The Enigma >> September-October 2012 61

nce upon a time there was a little girl named Chrissie Faust. Chrissie was excited about learning new things. When she was three, Chrissie started her education at Cedarwood School, where she took advantage of every opportunity presented to her, from art and academics to athletics. She continued at Cedarwood all the way through the 7th grade. Chrissie went on to high school at Saint Scholastica Academy, where she excelled in academics. Chrissie, who had become quite an artist, was accepted to NOCCA and attended on Saturdays. Chrissie graduated from SSA with high honors and received a scholarship to Millsaps College. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Biology. Millsaps selected her as a Ford Teaching Fellow, which gave her the opportunity to teach a college level course. Chrissie was offered acceptance into multiple PhD programs and selected Tulane University for her continued studies. As a student-scientist, Chrissie won first place for her breakthrough scientific discovery relating to learning and memory. Chrissie will receive her PhD in Neuroscience in 2013, is newly married (taking the name of Christine Witty), and is living happily ever after.

Success begins in preschool! Come and see for yourself at our Open House! October 18th at 9:00 p.m.

Inside Northside

produces highly complex codes with virtually endless translation possibilities. It was thought to be unbreakable. Unbreakable, that is, until eccentric Cambridge mathematician Alan Turing broke the code. Turing developed an electromechanical machine called the bombe, which could reveal the daily settings for the Germans’ encrypted messages. The large code-breaking effort at Bletchley was divided among various huts at the Bletchley complex, where workers would intercept encoded German naval messages, decode the messages, and finally translate them into English. McNeely was assigned to program the code-breaking machines. The Bletchley Park efforts, according to some historians, may have shortened World War II by up to four years and was a significant part of the Allied victory. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill once described the workers at Bletchley as “the geese that laid the golden egg but never cackled” because they stayed tight-lipped about their important contributions. McNeely and her fellow Wrens worked eight-hour shifts, 24 hours a day, programming the enormous machines that Turing had invented to decipher the encrypted messages. At the start of each shift, they were presented with a menu that showed them how to align the settings on the bombe machines with the code corresponding to each encrypted message. Then they would run the message through the machine. After the machine decoded the message, it would be sent to another hut to be translated into English. “Once it got started, the machine went on until it suddenly stopped. And everyone let out a cheer because we had broken that code for the day,” McNeely says. “All this had to be done

imgages: COURTESY OF MARIGOLD MCNEELY

24 hours a day. The machines made an awful noise clicking as they got to each position. And the variations of the combinations of the numbers and letters were unbelievable.” Because the work was intelligencerelated and extremely important to the war effort, everyone at Bletchley Park was sworn to secrecy. Britain’s Official Secrets Act dictated that they couldn’t speak to anyone—including their families—about their work. Nor could they discuss it with their fellow Bletchley workers. So while McNeely knew what she was doing was important, she had no idea what the decoded messages said or the larger

significance of her work. “All we knew was that we were doing a very important job, and we did know when the machine stopped, we had broken a code. We knew we were code breakers. Everybody clapped, but we had no idea what it was all about,” she says. “We just knew it was good, and then we’d go on with the next menu. We had all these friends, but we couldn’t talk about what we were doing.” There was an ongoing fear that Germany might invade England and discover the code-breaking operations at Bletchley. “We always had the idea that we might be invaded and the Germans might come and torture us. That’s why >>

September-October 2012 63

imgages: COURTESY OF MARIGOLD MCNEELY

it was important for each person not to know what the next person did—so you couldn’t really help [the Germans] too much,” McNeely says. Though England was far from the front lines of the war, McNeely remembers being aware of the danger around her. She admits, though, that she was also probably a bit too young to fully understand the realities of the war. “That’s the funny part about it. Looking back on it, we were all into ‘Oh, we’re going to win the war,’ and we were all so enthusiastic. It was the older people who were worried to death about what was going to happen. Now, as a grandmother, I can certainly understand how my mother felt,” she says. The stress of the war and keeping secrets eventually took its toll on some of McNeely’s fellow Wrens. “Our work and not being able to discuss it with anyone—even our friends we worked with—was quite stressful,” she says. “So some [people] kind of went off the deep end. Instead of being discharged, [they were put into mental hospitals so they could not] divulge what they knew.” Other aspects of life at Bletchley Park were strict, too. Punishment for

arriving late to a shift or breaking minor rules involved either peeling potatoes or sitting on the roof of a hut and manning a stirrup pump to extinguish any incendiary bombs that might fall in the area. McNeely says that because it was an undiscovered secret, Bletchley wasn’t a target, but the fire bombs would still occasionally fall nearby. Her punishment of choice? Bomb duty. She remembers once having to extinguish a fire bomb that dropped on her shift. Though the broken codes aided the effort, the Allies did not always act on their knowledge. “As we found out later, the sad thing about it was that they couldn’t act on some of the codes we broke; if they did, the Germans would know that we had broken the code,” McNeely says. “Some ships and different battles had to be sacrificed. Although >>

they knew what was happening, they couldn’t act on it.” McNeely worked at Bletchley until the war ended. Still in the navy, she was sent to the HMS Royal Arthur, a navy shore establishment. There, she transitioned out of her code-breaking duties and worked as an interviewer, administering psychological tests to new naval recruits. Prince Philip, who was a first lieutenant in the navy, was also stationed at Royal Arthur. McNeely remembers Philip as an aggressive field hockey player and a frequenter of London. “He was always dashing up to London to see Elizabeth; we didn’t realize there was this big romance going on,” she says. Years after the war had ended, McNeely came across an intriguing coincidence regarding her work. She eventually learned that her work included breaking code involving German submarines, which were attempting to sink supply ships delivering rations to England. McNeely met a German man who served as a captain on a submarine in the Atlantic at the same time she was breaking code about the submarines’ positions. To add to the coincidence, Richard McNeely, the man McNeely would later fall in love with, marry and start a family with, was one of the Merchant Marines running supplies back and forth across the Atlantic. McNeely’s post-war chance meeting with her future husband is the stuff of fairy tales. She was invited to stay with an American family in Houston after her tour with the navy ended. Six months into her visit, she received a call that her mother was very sick in England. McNeely quickly obtained a spot aboard a freighter traveling from Houston to England. On board was Richard, the ship’s chief officer and a native New Orleanian. As the ship’s 12 passengers 66

Inside Northside

were boarding, McNeely caught Richard’s eye. “That’s mine,” Richard said to his cousin, the ship’s second officer. He pursued McNeely, and before the 12-day journey was over, they had decided to marry. It was a quick courtship. Richard’s orders took him to Singapore after the ship docked in England. They kept in touch while McNeely cared for her mother and were later married in New Orleans, where they raised their four children. Now retired, McNeely and her husband, who worked as a Crescent River Port pilot on the Mississippi River, have been married for 63 years and recently welcomed a great-grandchild into their family. All this time, though, McNeely has kept her secret. The Official Secrets Act was finally lifted in 1974 as the Cold War dwindled to a close, but McNeely didn’t find out about it right away. “This was a terrible shock to us because no one had told us it was lifted. All of a sudden, we saw the movies and articles coming out about Enigma,” she says. McNeely heard the news when a fellow Wren from Bletchley called her. After decades of keeping quiet about her important role in World War II, McNeely could finally speak out. And that meant she could also receive recognition for her work. The British government awarded the Bletchley Park workers badges and certificates of appreciation. Hollywood caught on to the story, releasing the movie Enigma, starring Kate Winslet in 2001. McNeely says that even decades after the war, fellow Brits are still showing their appreciation. “If you wear these badges in England, they give you free cups of tea—still!; get on a bus and it’s free, go into a museum and it’s free,” she says. “It’s unbelievable. They’re still appreciating what you did.” September-October 2012 67

St. Louis Cathedral The Jewel of the French Quarter by Stephen Faure

Inside Northside

WHETHER IT WAS A WISE CHOICE, geographically speaking, for explorer Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne, Sieur de Bienville, to establish a capital for France’s newest colonial endeavor on this particular crescent bend in the Mississippi River in 1718 remains a matter of debate. (For example, he thought the location would be safe from hurricanes.) But one thing we do know is that once made, his choice stuck. As the area right in the middle of the bend that became New Orleans was cleared, fortune-seeking colonists of all professions arrived. Back then, being French meant being Catholic, and the Catholic Mass was first celebrated outdoors or in tents and then in a warehouse on Toulouse Street near the river. In 1720, the parish of St. Louis was established, and in 1724, construction began on the first church building erected where the Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis, King of France, now stands as the jewel of the French Quarter.

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

A Famous Face Nearly three centuries after Bienville, Mass is still being said in St. Louis Cathedral, now one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. “It is the only cathedral in the world that is a symbol of a city. Almost everything you see, even in abstract, relating to the city of New Orleans, has the triple spires,” says Monsignor Crosby Kern of the church’s familiar silhouette. Kern is the Cathedral’s rector; he jokingly wishes its image would generate licensing revenue. “I wish I had a penny for every time they use it in advertisements. Just a penny!” Although he can speak with a light-hearted air, Kern takes his job very seriously and conveys the sense that he is very aware of the weight of the church’s history and of his responsibilities. “When you’re rector here, you’re not only pastor of a parish, but you’re sort of a curator of a living museum,” observes Kern. “The old Ursuline Convent a few blocks away, part of the complex of this parish, is the oldest building in the Mississippi Valley. You have to take care of these things; you live and work with the history.” There are probably only a few, if any, people who have a deeper connection to the Cathedral than Kern. “My own ancestors have >>

Left: The CathedralBasilica of St. Louis, King of France stands at the heart of New Orleans. Inset: A mural on the ceiling depicts St. Peter receiving the staff of authority from Jesus Christ.

September-October 2012 69

A view of the Cathedral’s flagbedecked interior. The large fresco above

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

the altar depicts St.

been here since the beginning of the city. In the marriage records from the 1720s, my 10-times-greatgrandparents were married here in 1728. Later on, other ancestors were married by Père Antoine in the Cathedral. Here I am, the rector looking at that, and it’s really humbling,” Kern says, as he launches into a brief history of the church. “The present building is the third rendition on the site, but it incorporates parts of all the other buildings. Remember, the city was founded in 1718.

St. Louis was made a parish in 1720. We know there Louis announcing the was Mass going on before that, but in 1720, it was Seventh Crusade. firmly established as a parish.” Inset: The Baroque Kern notes that the first church was completed centerpiece of the by 1727. He says it was “a rather substantial building main altar dates that lasted until the great fire of 1788, when it back to 1852. The burned to the ground. Rebuilding took until 1793, inscription Ecce Panis when it reopened as a cathedral, and it was a larger Angelorum means building.” Don Andres Almonester y Roxas, who “behold the bread of financed the building of the Cabildo, also donated the >> the Angels.” September-October 2012 71

THE HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION ( 1957.39)

Top: Ancienne Cathedrale, an illustration depicting Almonester’s church built in 1793 and its environs on the Place d’Armes (ca. 1850, by lithographer Louis Xavier Magny) after an earlier sketch by Almonester’s grandson, Gaston Pontalba).

Cathedral today. overlooks the former Place d’Armes, now Jackson Square. 72

Inside Northside

photo: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

Bottom: The

funds to rebuild the Cathedral and the Presbytere. The monsignor explains that the church was designated a cathedral upon reopening because it had become the seat of the newly created Diocese of Louisiana and the Floridas, and its first bishop, named Peñelvar, was installed. (That it is home of the bishop’s chair, the cathedra in Latin, makes a church a cathedral, not its size). “The foundations of part of the first building were part of the foundation of the new Cathedral, which [later] went through some variations,” Kern continues. “There were originally two steeples, then a third was added and they were rounded, more in the Spanish style.” The iconic face of the Cathedral today is a design that has lasted since 1851. Kern says that by the 1840s, the 1793 building was in disrepair and was too small to hold a still-growing congregation. Another consideration for remodeling the Cathedral was aesthetic; the Cabildo and Presbytere had been increased in height with the additions of their third floors and mansard roofs, and the Cathedral appeared shorter and no longer to scale in comparison. French architect J.N.B. de Pouilly designed the new building with its three spires, a lengthened nave and a taller façade that incorporates the lower part of the 1793 building. The new Cathedral was consecrated in December 1851. Kern says that de Pouilly’s first plan called for a radical departure that would have changed the city forever. “What they were going to do was tear the whole thing down and build back at the other end of Orleans Street where the Municipal Auditorium is. Orleans was the street in those days, so the Cathedral would have been there with a grand avenue leading to the river. But >> September-October 2012 73

the people wanted their church and wanted to add on and rebuild where we are now.” Luckily, the city planners prevailed and nixed de Pouilly’s plan. The iconic view from the river toward the Cathedral, flanked by the Presbytere, Cabildo and Pontalba buildings, has been unchanged ever since the addition of Andrew Jackson’s statue to the public square in 1855.

A Neighborhood Church

photo: STEPHEN FAURE

“This is a wonderful neighborhood,” notes Kern. “Besides the tourist attractions, people live here in the French Quarter, people who contribute greatly to the community.” Although he likens himself to a curator of a museum, Kern is leader of a parish populated by what may be one of the most eclectic flocks anywhere in the world. “It’s a living house of prayer,” he

Inside Northside

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

says. “We celebrate the sacraments here. I say we are a living museum, in the sense that it’s a witness to history, but primarily it’s a house of prayer. People of all faiths come here. People are here at Mass; they’re here to worship. That’s always been part of this place. Since 1718, when the city was founded, Mass has been said on this site. People were coming here as men and women of faith. It humbles a person to sit there and understand that.” As a working church in the middle of what seems, at times, a Disney-esque setting, St. Louis Cathedral has seen a regular procession of weddings over the centuries. As mother church of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, which covers the entire state, Kern says every Catholic in Louisiana has the right to be married in the Cathedral. How many people have exercised that right? He doesn’t care to guess. “We have two or three weddings a weekend, every week. That’s been going on for ever and ever and ever, which is important,” he says. Baptisms are another rite of passage in the life of Catholics. The baptismal font at the Cathedral, one of its oldest artifacts, is believed to date back to >>

Opposite: A prayer room dedicated to and featuring a stained-glass window of Mother Henriette DeLille is located off of the vestibule and was once the Cathedral’s baptistry. Above: Stained-glass windows along the Cathedral’s walls feature scenes from the life of St. Louis, King of France. Below: Almonester’s tomb, as well as those of many other of the city’s civic and religious leaders, is located in the Cathedral.

September-October 2012 75

Above: First used in 1819, the large bell called Victoire, in honor of the victory at the Battle of New Orleans, rings each hour; the smaller bells, from 1851, ring the quarter-hours. The steeple was

in 1850 with a design that was open to the elements. Some of its decorative ironwork remained after the steeple was enclosed in 1859 and is visible in the photograph. Right: The Cathedral’s sturdy construction has stood the test of time. Opposite: The doublebarred cross signifies that the Cathedral is the home of an archdiocese. 76

Almonester’s cathedral, which was dedicated in 1793. Thousands of babies have been christened in it, from slaves and mayors to saints and voodoo queens. Of course, thousands of funerals have been performed in the Cathedral as well, with many of the city’s earliest leaders buried beneath the church, including Almonester and Pierre Marigny, the father of Mandeville’s Bernard Marigny. (Bernard is buried in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.) Twelve bishops and archbishops have their resting place in the Cathedral around the altar. Most recently, the very beloved Archbishop Phillip Hannan, who retired to the northshore and died in 2011, was laid to rest at the side of the altar. Marble tablets installed along the walls of the church memorialize the bishops who have served and are interred there. The port city of New Orleans’ phenomenal

Inside Northside

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

originally constructed

growth in the early 1800s is reflected in the Cathedral’s baptismal and funeral registries from 1820. In addition to natives of New Orleans, the registries list persons from 35 different countries, 12 states and Washington, D.C., who came to New Orleans and either died or gave birth there. While the Cathedral’s image was worked into the New Orleans Saints championship ring design, real saints— not the NFL variety, but those who have been venerated or beatified by the Roman Catholic Church—have worshiped here, Kern says. “St. Francis Cabrini, Blessed Seelos, St. Catherine Drexel, Mother Henriette DeLille (whose cause is up before the Church) and Blessed John Paul II have been here. So it’s been a place of saints.” Saints have worshiped in the Cathedral, but sinners, too, seek out the church, two blocks from infamous Bourbon Street. “We come here as sinners to seek God’s love and forgiveness and to live his forgiveness >>

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September-October 2012 77

as part of our faith. It’s a marvelous and wonderful paradox, almost,” says Kern.

The Cathedral’s Symbolism St. Louis Cathedral is an important symbol of an entire city. As the center of faith for a neighborhood and mother church of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, it has its own symbols that signify various tenets of the Catholic faith. Immediately noticeable are the double-barred crosses on the steeples’ roofs, which indicate that the Cathedral is a metropolitan church. “Well, yes, it’s a big city,” one might think. However, the term “metropolitan” has a specific meaning in the Church; it is the home of an archdiocese. The double-barred cross is found inside the Cathedral as well, over the bishop’s chair, and, as Kern points out, “The processional cross on the left side of the altar as you are looking at it is a double-barred cross. It belonged to the first archbishop, Antoine Blanc, and has been used by every archbishop here since 1850.” Inside, the Cathedral’s display of flags catches the eye, as do the stainedglass windows and the murals covering the ceiling and walls above the choir loft and altar. All carry their own religious messages. The large mural above the altar, painted by Erasme Humbrecht in 1872, shows King Louis IX announcing the Seventh Crusade. While the murals draw the eye skyward, the stained-glass windows in the outer walls dominate the Cathedral during the day. The panels depict scenes from the life of St. Louis, King of France, the only French monarch beatified by the Church. Louis IX reigned from 1226 to 1270 and was canonized in 1297. St. Louis is the patron saint of architects; one of the windows depicts him working on plans for La Sainte-Chapelle, 78

Inside Northside

Above: The Cathedral’s baptismal font may be the oldest object in the church.

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

Below: Paintings of the apostles decorate the spaces between the vaults underneath the ceiling.

a major Parisian landmark that he built to house his collection of relics. One of those relics is a portion of the crown of thorns, and his statue standing in the rear of St. Louis Cathedral, like many statues of St. Louis, depicts him bearing a crown of thorns atop a pillow. Other window panels show his coronation; his role as crusader (he led two crusades); his work as a healer, administering to lepers; his death; and, in the final panel, the pope discussing his canonization. In 1964, Pope Paul VI elevated St. Louis Cathedral to the status of Minor Basilica. An honorary title, it comes with its own symbolism. The designation recognizes a church’s importance in history and to the region where it’s located. Kern explains, “It becomes, in a sense, a papal church attached to one of the major basilicas in Rome. Ours is attached to St. Mary Major. Certain privileges that are attached to the major basilica are attached to this as well. You

might notice there are symbols on either side of the Cathedral, two glass display cases, one with an umbrella and one with a bell on the end of a pole. Those go back to antiquity as well, symbolizing the pope when he comes.” Of the papal visit by John Paul II in 1987, Kern says, “He’s been by far >>

the most important visitor ever to the Cathedral—and we’ve had kings and emperors, prime ministers and presidents. You name it, the high and the low.”

New Orleans’ Center Physically and spiritually, the Cathedral has always been at the center of New Orleans. As Kern says, “In triumph and in tragedy, people from the beginning have come to the Cathedral. It is a point of faith. After the Battle of New Orleans, Andrew Jackson brought everyone here to sing a praise of thanksgiving. Zachary Taylor, after the Battle of Buena Vista in the Mexican War, came to the Cathedral in New Orleans. After hurricanes, this was a rallying point. After Katrina, the city was devastated. One of the first things that happened was a public Mass about a month after Katrina, as soon as we could get everything together.” Citizens of all faiths come to the Cathedral during the Christmas 80

Inside Northside

holidays with caroling in the church and in Jackson Square. Each year the Cathedral also serves as the venue for a free concert held by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra and the Historic New Orleans Collection. Kern reflects further on his tenure as rector at the jewel in the center of New Orleans. “It’s been the neatest thing to be part of it all during my time here,” he says. “I’ve hosted a president, a prime minister, Prince Charles, the inauguration of mayors, the installation of new archbishops, the death of an old archbishop—all of these things happened—so it’s been a privilege to be able to be here to witness these expressions of faith and realize that you are looking at history as it happens.” The Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis, King of France, has stood for generations—a tourist attraction, a neighborhood church, a gathering place, a living museum and a

Left: Votive candles in the Cathedral’s vestibule. Above: The Cathedral’s clock is ringed by small glass windows that provide a unique view of Jackson Square.

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

burial ground; a place of joy and sadness, a place to give thanks, seek solace and above all, to find redemption. As to its future, Monsignor Kern says, “So we stay here, despite all of the problems, despite some of the seedier things. We are going to stay, as we always have been, as an anchor of faith, the anchor of hope, life and the fulfillment of life. It’s much more than what you get from Bourbon Street, and we hope we’re the symbol of that.” To learn more about the Cathedral, visit stlouiscathedral.org. The books Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis, King of France, by Charles E. Nolan (available in the Cathedral gift shop) and The Basilica on Jackson Square: the history of the St. Louis Cathedral by Leonard V. Huber and Samuel Wilson, Jr. (available at online booksellers) were invaluable resources in producing this article. September-October 2012 81

INthe Arts

Asche, Kenny Bridges, Keith Dellsperger, Kelly Landrum Hammell and Milo Stephens. One of the most popular events of seasons past has been moved to January. Salad Days Juried Exhibition of Student Art spotlights talented young artists, presenting awards to students in four different age groups. The students’ work will be displayed Jan. 11 through Feb. 15, 2013. The annual Mixed Media Juried Art Exhibit also moves from its original January slot to April 26 through June 14, 2013. All exhibits will be in the Slidell Cultural Center at City Hall. Admission is free.

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN. Many cultural organizations begin their season in the fall. Use this article as a guide, and be sure to mark your calendar—the sooner, the better!

SLIDELL CULTURAL EVENTS This year’s main attraction is artwork by Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró and Henri Matisse, which will be displayed in the Slidell Cultural Center at City Hall March 2 to April 12, 2013. The world-class exhibit includes ceramics by Picasso and works on paper by Miró and Matisse. Don’t miss your chance to see these world-famous pieces of art!

Art Exhibits

Slidell’s Bayou Jam concert series. 82

The first event of Slidell’s cultural season is Optical Illusions: In 3D!. Designed by local artists, the exhibit, to be experienced while wearing 3D glasses, runs through Sept. 22. From Oct. 5 through Nov. 30, The Accident Artist features the works of Mickey

Inside Northside

Concerts Slidell’s popular Bayou Jam Concert Series enters its 11th season with a fall 2012 lineup featuring Redline on Sept. 30, Mike “Soulman” Baptiste and Real Soul on Oct. 14, and Vince Vance & the Valiants on Oct. 28. The spring schedule includes The Topcats on March 17, Four Unplugged on March 24 and Christian Serpas and Ghost Town on April 7. All concerts are held in Heritage Park, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Also in Heritage Park is the return of the 11th annual Some Enchanted Evening with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra on April 20, 2013, with the Enchanted Art Walk at 5 p.m. and the concert

photo courtesy of: CITY OF SLIDELL DEPARTMENT OF CULTURAL AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS

The 2012-2013 Cultural Season

at 6 p.m. All of the concerts offer free admission.

Festivals The city’s Christmas Under the Stars festival makes it way back to its original home in Old Towne’s Griffith Park from its temporary location in Heritage Park. The festival takes place on two weekends, Dec. 7-8 and 14-15, and features live entertainment, a parade of Christmas trees decorated by local organizations, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a miniature train and village, and holiday decorations. This year’s Arts Evening festival on March 2, 2013, will include live entertainment and showcases the district’s many restaurants, antique stores, boutiques and family-owned businesses. For the second year, the free Kids Fest will be celebrated in the Slidell Municipal Auditorium on Friday, June 14, from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

Arts-in-Education A diverse array of Arts-inEducation offerings is slated for the upcoming cultural season. Students will have an opportunity to enjoy in-school performances by Rhythm/ Soul’s Think Positive hip-hop theatre, Spencer’s Theatre of Illusion/Hocus Focus, and Ken Waldman, Alaska’s fiddling poet. Young audiences will also enjoy an opportunity to see the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra performing in the Slidell Municipal Auditorium. Arts-in-Education opportunities are coordinated through the approval of the St. Tammany Parish School Board.

Special Events Only a few events in Slidell’s cultural season require a ticket. On Oct. 25, Ken Waldman, Alaska’s fiddling poet, will be joined by some of Louisiana’s >>

favorite Cajun musicians for a dynamic literary and musical performance in the Slidell Municipal Auditorium. The critically acclaimed Spencer’s Theatre of Illusion, which will be held in the Slidell Municipal Auditorium on Saturday, March 23, 2013, is a high-tech stage show with dazzling special effects. For more information on any of the above events, call the City of Slidell’s Department of

Cultural & Public Affairs at 646-4375 or visit the city’s website at slidell.la.us.

SLIDELL Little Theater In September, the Slidell Little Theatre presents Willy Wonka Sept. 1-9 and A Year with Frog and Toad Sept. 15-16 and 22-23. The timeless story of the candy man and his quest to find an heir is sure to delight the

photos courtesy of: LOUISIANA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.

Pepe Romero.

kid in everyone. Arnold Lobel’s story follows best friends Frog and Toad through four fun-filled seasons. The theatre’s October feature is Pippin, a musical about a young prince and heir to Charlemagne who must come to terms with all that life throws his way. It features an energetic, pop-influenced score and infectious dance numbers. Pippin is Oct. 12-13, 19-21 and 26-28. To reserve tickets, call 641-0324. For more information, visit SlidellLittleTheatre.org.

LOUISIANA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra’s 2012-2013 northshore season begins on Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m. with Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 at First Baptist Church in Covington. On Nov. 9 at 7:30 p.m., enjoy Symphonic Brass at the same venue. The orchestra’s holiday offering, A Baroque Christmas, on Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. will be at St. Timothy United Methodist >> September-October 2012 85

Church in Mandeville. The New Year brings several events, including a Spanish Evening with Pepe Romero on Jan. 11, Beethoven’s Eroica Symphony on Feb. 22, Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 on March 8, French Masters on May 10 and Swing in the Pines on May 11. The LPO’s Some Enchanted Evening concert in Slidell will be held April 20. For more information, call (504)523-6530 or visit lpo.org.

Culture Splash This year’s Culture Splash features the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra on Sunday, Oct. 14, at 5 p.m. In case of rain, the event will be moved to Oct. 21. Culture Splash is at Lakeshore Drive and Coffee Street. Call 624-3147 or visit cityofmandeville.com.

NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART On Sept. 8 at 11 a.m., the New Orleans Museum of Art presents Saturday Storyquest, a new family program in which professional authors, actors and artists bring the world of children’s literature to NOMA. Ralston Crawford Jazz is an exhibit that considers the relationships between music, photography, painting, drawing and film as they intersect in Crawford’s work in New Orleans. The exhibition is on view until Oct. 14. From Sept. 7 through Dec. 2, the exhibit Photography, Sequence, & Time will explore how photographers throughout time have sought to overcome the narrative limitations of the single photographic image through photographic sequences that create meaning through a succession of images. NOMA will celebrate Ida Kohlmeyer’s 100th Anniversary Sept. 28 through December with a display of works in the permanent collection that highlight the arch of her artistic career. The museum’s Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture 86

Inside Northside

photo courtesy of: NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART

LOVE in the Garden.

Garden is sure to provide an undeniably romantic setting during the eighth annual LOVE in the Garden celebration on Friday, Sept. 28. Japan Fest will take place on Saturday, Oct. 20. Starting at 10 a.m., visitors can experience a day full of martial arts demonstrations, performances, exhibits and hands-on activities. From Nov. 11 through Jan. 27, NOMA is proud to present the exhibit Lifelike, which is organized by the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, Minn. This exhibition showcases works from the 1960s to the present by more than 35 artists who use scale, unusual materials and sly contextual devices to probe the “authenticity” of commonplace objects. For up-to-date information, please go to noma.org or call (504) 658-4100.

Jackson Theater with Pilobolus on Oct. 20 at 8 p.m. The 2012-2013 season also features Ballet Hispanico and the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra at the Mahalia Jackson Theatre on Dec. 8 at 8 p.m. and Jessica Lang Dance on Jan. 18-19 and Jan. 20 at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts’ Freda Lupin Memorial Hall. On Feb. 23 at 8 p.m., NOBA welcomes the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, which is dedicated to commissioning new work from top international choreographers. The season concludes with the Martha Graham Dance Company on March 23 at 8 p.m. at the Mahalia Jackson Theater. For more information or to purchase season tickets, call NOBA at (504) 522-0996, Ext. 201, or visit nobadance.com.

NEW ORLEANS BALLET ASSOCIATION

FANFARE AND THE COLUMBIA THEATER

The New Orleans Ballet Association kicks off its season at the Mahalia

As Fanfare, Southeastern Louisiana University’s annual October celebration >>

the Piazza.

Inside Northside

photo courtesy of: COLUMBIA THEATER

The Light in

of the arts, humanities and social sciences, enters its 27th season, it will once again showcase music, theater, lectures, films, children’s events, art exhibits and more. First on tap is Southeastern Opera/ Theatre Workshop’s presentation of The Light in the Piazza Sept. 27- 28 in Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts at 7:30 pm. Also in the theater category is Southeastern Theatre’s presentation of Murderous Innocent by Tommy Jamerson on Oct. 9-12 in Vonnie Borden Theatre. The 2012-13 regular season of Columbia Theatre offers something for everyone with everything from acrobats to math magic to musical twins. The season opens Oct. 2 with MatheMagic, a show that promotes math skills and problem solving through visuals, history, language and worldclass entertainment. Back on Oct. 10 by popular demand is the always-funny Capitol Steps, a group of former Senate staffers who set out to satirize the very people and places that employed them. For more information on the Columbia Theatre season, contact the administrative office at 543-4366, and check southeastern.edu/fanfare for the Fanfare schedule.

JEFFERSON PERFORMING ARTS SOCIETY The Jefferson Performing Arts Society’s northshore season begins Friday, Oct. 19, with the Pasta & Puccini fundraiser and performances of Driving Miss Daisy at the North Star Theatre in Mandeville on Oct. 19-21 and at Columbia Theatre in Hammond on Oct. 26-28. Other events on this year’s schedule include Frost v. Nixon on Nov. 9-18 and Avenue Q on Feb. 22-24 and March 1-3, both at the North Star Theatre. For detailed information, call (504) 885-2000 or visit jpas.org.

FALL FOR ART On Saturday, Oct. 20, downtown Covington comes to life with the 22nd Annual Fall for Art. New work by dozens of artists from around the Southeast Region will be showcased during this outdoor event, which includes family-friendly activities, live music, gallery openings, art demonstrations and fine dining. The St. Tammany Art Association has collaborated with the New Orleans Museum of Art

to bring the featured exhibition, Specters, Saints and Spirits: Discoveries from the New Orleans Museum of Art, to the northshore Oct. 13 through Nov. 3. The exhibition will feature cemetery-themed artwork from NOMA’s permanent collection. All events are free and open to the public. For more information, or to become a sponsor or volunteer, contact the St. Tammany Art Association at 892-8650 or email info@ sttammanyartassociation.org.

SOUTHERN REP THEATER As New Orleans’ only year-round professional theatre, Southern Rep offers new plays and the best of Broadway and off-Broadway. The theatre’s 20122013 schedule includes A Christmas Carol by Doris Baizely Nov. 23 through Dec. 16; Pride & Prejudice, Jan. 9-25; The Fifth Kingdom by John Biguenet March 23 through April 14; Next to Normal, May 15 through June 9; and the world premier of Freedom July 10-28. To find out more, visit southernrep.com.

NEW ORLEANS OPERA Plácido Domingo is featured in the New Orleans

September-October 2012 89

photo: S_BUKLEY / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Placido Domingo.

Opera’s gala performance for one night only on Oct. 12 at the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts. Other performances include Rossini’s The Barber of Seville on Nov. 16 and 18, Saint-Saën’s Samson and Delilah on March 15 and 17 and Puccini’s Madame Butterfly on April 12 and 14. Opera on Tap has performances in New Orleans, but your thirst can be quenched on the northshore at the Abita Brew Pub on Sept. 19, Oct. 17, Nov. 7, Feb. 20 and March 20. The concert is free, casual and lasts about 90 minutes. For more information, call (504) 529-2278 or (800) 881-4459 or visit neworleansopera.org. To make reservations with Abita Brew Pub, call 892-5837. John Giraud of Opera on Tap.

photo courtesy of: NEW ORLEANS OPERA

September-October 2012 91

by Karen B. Gibbs

MADISONVILLE RESIDENT JANE HARVEY has written four inspirational books and just completed her fifth. She is quick to dispel any idea that she is exceptional, however. “Oh my goodness, I’m a very ordinary person!” Jane exclaims. “I’m a wife (for 33 years), mother of four and a grandmother. When the kids were growing up, I did all the mom things, like volunteering at school and working with non-profits.” So how does this ordinary woman—who’d never written anything in her life—pen five books? It all started with an e-mail and a desire to offer comfort. 92

Inside Northside

In 2002, Jane’s sister, Mary, told her of a very close friend whose mom had suffered a stroke. Overwhelmed with compassion, Jane e-mailed a message of encouragement. “I wrote that she should tell her mom to ask God for help. I went on to list all the things she should ask him for. As I was writing, something extraordinary happened. I felt overwhelmed by God’s presence.” Closing the e-mail, Jane opened a blank document. For the next hour, her fingers flew across the keyboard as the idea, the words and even the ending for Ask Him for Encouragement, her first book, flowed. Jane’s sister, Sally, read what she’d written and told her it should be published. On fire to get her message out to others who were hurting, Jane and her sister looked into self-publishing, something

photos: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Inspired

Jane Harvey’s books offer comfort through faith

that Mele’s Printing in Covington made a reality. Jane marketed the book through local retailers and soon had a fan base. One such admirer, Lou Babin, asked Jane to write another book, one that would help him as he battled end-stage cancer. Jane optimistically thought this second book would flow just as easily as the first. “I kept waiting to be whammed, but nothing happened. Frustrated, I asked God for help. He answered me on a day when my schedule was entirely booked. All of a sudden, everyone started cancelling.” Once her day was free from appointments, Jane experienced a welling up within her, the same feeling that prompted her to write her first book. “I now recognize this as the Holy Spirit moving me.” Jane drove to the grounds of St. Joseph Abbey, where she wrote nonstop. By the time she finished, Ask Him for Hope, her second book, was nearly complete. She wasted no time making a copy for Lou, to whom she dedicated the book. “I felt blessed that he was able to read it before he died. That’s the kind of thing that happens when we let God direct our lives. His timing is always perfect.” Soon followed Thank Him—Living Life with an Attitude of Gratitude and Saints Alive, a compilation of wisdom from the saints. Her most recent work, Ask Him for Courage with Cancer, is especially dear to her heart. Having lost both parents to the killer disease, Jane is passionate about helping people cope with cancer. In preparation for this book, she read everything she could about it. “I wanted to understand what people had to go through.” Despite extensive research, when she received the final draft from the publisher, Jane had an overwhelming >> September-October 2012 93

feeling that it wasn’t finished. She prayed for guidance. After three months, she felt directed to put devotionals for reflection at the end of each thought. “The minute I started writing, I knew this was right.” Ask Him for Courage has 52 meditations that help cancer patients find a higher purpose in their experiences—from hair loss to chemo. Also included is a personal journal that provides cathartic writing opportunities. Of all the questions cancer patients have, the last devotional Jane wrote addresses the “elephant in the room:” If God can do anything, why did he let me have cancer? Using wisdom garnered from years of yielding to God’s will, Jane responds that we cannot see the big picture, so we have to trust—even when it doesn’t make sense. Jane learned to rely on God years ago. A new member of a local Christian women’s club, she saw something different in the ladies there—and she wanted it, too. They didn’t just have religion—they had a relationship with God. As Jane grew closer to God, she became filled with peace, introduced family prayer time into her home and started making church a priority with her husband and children. Nearly 20 years later, Jane still immerses herself daily in conversation with God, feeling his presence. “I passionately desire to be the best person God created me to be. That’s all he wants from us. Yield to God, and you’ll do what you never dreamed you could. Jane’s books can be found at Café Rani, Braswell’s, Simple Goodness, Angels of Peace and Mule’s Religious. Watch Jump Start with Jane, her 90-second inspirational message, on weekdays at 8:00 a.m. on WLAE-TV, or at TheDailyMass.com. For speaking engagements, e-mail Jane at info@askhimbooks.com. 94

Inside Northside

September-October 2012 95

Inside Northside

Getting to Know Polo

photo courtesy of: JLGC

by Derric Boudreaux

Until recently (like many of you, I’m sure), I’d never seen a game of polo and didn’t know it was played in this area. That changed after I paid a visit to Innisfree Farm in Folsom and watched the Innisfree Polo Tournament. Finding my way there was made more difficult by a GPS that seems to have a mind of its own. After I saw the championship stage being hauled behind a pickup truck, I knew I was on the right track. To my surprise, I was greeted with a spectacular view of a massive 10-acre field and gorgeous green grass in all directions. I was welcomed by the sound of nine massive horses galloping across the field. The closest thing I can compare it to is the sound of a thunderstorm rumbling in the distance and slowly growing louder. Needless to say, I was already impressed. I was relieved to discover that polo really isn’t a particularly complicated game. What helped me was having other people ask questions and also having an announcer who was more than happy to answer them on the speakers. The polo field can become quite worn during a match. Luckily for the players, the audience shares the responsibility for the field. During half time, it’s traditional for the audience to perform what is known as “divot stomping.” Music kicks on, and the audience takes to the field to stomp the divots back into place. The only trick is to watch out for the occasional “steamer,” as our announcer put it. More than anything though, stomping the divots helps keep the field safe to

play on. Polo is renowned for being one of the most dangerous games played today. When I asked player Kristin Watson about the dangers, she only smiled. Despite the dangers, Kristin encourages her children to play, as it provides good outdoor fun for her family. During her three years of playing polo, Kristin has played at numerous locations, but the northshore is one of her favorites. “The northshore is more family oriented, and everyone is very friendly.” After the tournament, I had a chance to speak with Jennifer Rice. Owner (with husband Tim) of Innisfree Farm, she is also one of the leaders of the New Orleans Polo Club. “It’s the best place in the South to learn how to play,” says Jennifer. I was curious about playing an organized sport from the back of a horse. How do you handle playing with a creature that has a mind of its own? Jennifer introduced me to David Fennelly of Summergrove Farms, who had the perfect answer. “When you play long enough with a pony, they learn to play with you. If you hit a ball the same way 96 times, they begin to learn how you want them to turn.” In a sense, you are no longer playing on a pony, but rather playing with the pony.

If you would like to try playing polo, the New Orleans Polo Club is always open to new members. But if you’re looking for an exciting spectator experience, don’t miss the Junior League of Greater Covington’s Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2012 on Oct. 21. September-October 2012 97

Inside Northside

October 21, 2012

the heart of the forest

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discover the outdoors build a home on the lot of your choice

design a raised garden

observe wildlife create a personal space

take riding lessons Conveniently located 10 miles north of I-12 at Goodbee/Madisonville Ext.

plant an orchard enjoy the seasons

www.lapolofarms.com

easy access to all areas of the Northshore and New Orleans

for a personal tour of the properties

Phone: 985.796.9130

Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2012 Dear Friends, The Junior League of Greater Covington is delighted to announce our 16th Annual Harvest Cup Polo Classic, which will be held on October 21, 2012, at Leah Farm in Folsom. Polo is our major fundraiser, providing crucial funds to support our community projects. Our members have responded to the call to move our mission forward by providing valuable services through our numerous endeavors. Proceeds from Polo allow JLGC to continue our good works. Our members continue to touch lives by promoting childhood literacy though our participation in the nationwide Read for the Record event each October, providing community assistance grants and volunteers to New Heights Therapeutic Riding Center, and focusing on health issues with our Annual Spring Stomp 5K and Fun Run. Our Career Corner committee provides essential services by assisting women in difficult economic circumstances to transition into the workforce by offering wardrobe consultation, outfits, accessories, job-interviewing skills and guidance. Career Corner’s Project Prom helps junior and senior year high school girls in financial need enjoy an evening at prom by supplying these young ladies with dresses, shoes and other accessories. Plans are in the works for our signature project, the future Children’s Museum of St. Tammany. JLGC is pleased to be a community partner with Children’s Museum, which promises a facility with permanent and national traveling exhibits,

contents 3 Letter from the President

an outdoor theater and a Children’s Village. A compliment to the anticipated Children’s Museum of St. Tammany is JLGC’s Museum Without Walls, an outreach where league members visit area schools and attend community events to spread the word about the Children’s Museum with hands-on learning experiences. Through the continued support of our sponsors, patrons and dedicated league members, JLGC is able to accomplish our mission of promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving our community through leadership of our trained volunteers. We achieve these successes with the help of our community partners – Dunavant Wealth Services, Inside Northside, Champagne Beverage, Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry and United Way, and through our Polo Advisory Council – who supports us, the “Women Building Better Communities.” We are grateful for the JLGC Polo Committee; our Polo Committee Coordinators, Stephanie Dupepe, Jennifer Fandal and Brandi Bellina; and all of our members who unselfishly dedicate many hours of service to our league and to making Polo the magnificent and elegant event it is. We welcome you to join us for our exciting Polo match coupled with a day of

4 Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2012 Committees 6 Every Man a King New Orleans Polo Club president David Fennely. 10 Polo Artists 14 Event Sponsors 15 The Nuts and Bolts of Polo 16 Polo INsider Dr. Lori Summers. 18 Polo Flourishes Selected from the Silent Auction Tent.

culinary delights, divot stomping, the Pretty Woman Hat Contest, and visiting with friends old and new. The members of the Junior League of Greater Covington are grateful for your support of our 2012 Harvest Cup Polo Classic.

22 One Special Horse Bonny Barry’s Valentino.

Sincerely, Cindy Petry President, 2012-2013 Junior League of Greater Covington Harvest C up Polo Classic 2012 3

Leonard, Mary Culpepper, Chad Berg (Lee Michaels), Marie Growden, Cheryl Haspel, John Johnson (Lee Michaels), Cindy

Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2012 Committee and Polo Advisory Counci

Petry, Jennifer Fandal, Eric Dunavant

The Five-Timers’ Club.

(Polo Committee members

(Dunavant Wealth Management). Middle

row: Carrie Bardwell, Jaime Burchfield

who have served for

(United Way), Beth VanDeldon, Vee Pigg,

five or more years.) Back row (left to right):

Leslie Robinson, Crystal Cook, Ashly Guillot, Jennifer Rice (Innisfree Farm), Stephanie Dupepe. Front row: Celia Palazzo, Fonda Brennan, Janice Perkins.

Stephanie Dupepe, Marie Growden, Kelly Wollfarth, Ashly Guillot. Front: Janice Perkins.

Get Your Harvest Cup Polo Classic Tickets Now! October 21, 11:30am-5:30pm

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

Junior League of Greater Covington

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

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF GREATER COVINGTON

Women building better communities ®

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

Back row (left to right): Susan

Every Man a King

New Orleans Polo Club president David Fennelly

by Stephen Faure

CALLED “THE SPORT OF KINGS,” polo isn’t just for royalty.

stars just aligned for us, and John continues to play polo for

That’s the good news that the New Orleans Polo Club and its

us and is involved in New Heights.”

president, David Fennelly, want everyone to know. of the sponsors of the Junior League of Greater Covington’s

Polo for Life It was Melton, in fact, who introduced Fennelly to the sport

Harvest Cup Polo Classic, but he and his partner, Carlos

several years ago. “I never thought polo was for me. Initially, I

Sanchez, are the new owners of Leah Farms, the venue for

thought it was something you either grew up in or that it was a

the event.

very affluent sport,” Fennelly recalls. “John Melton convinced

David and Carlos purchased Leah Farms earlier this

me one Saturday morning to get on a polo pony. I played, fell

year from John Melton. Melton’s hospitality has benefited

in love with it and the next weekend bought a helmet and the

many over the years, not only by hosting the Harvest Cup

mallets. So I’ve been playing for seven years.”

Polo Classic, but by also providing facilities at Leah Farms

Fennelly was no stranger to horses, though. He came to

for New Heights Therapeutic Riding and through many other

the United States from Ireland (he speaks with a slight hint of

fundraising activities. Carlos and David are committed to

a brogue, which, he jokes, becomes much more noticeable

continuing Leah Farms’ support of these worthy causes.

as the wine flows) to work in the thoroughbred horse industry.

“John and I have been friends for 10 years, and it was good timing for all involved—John, New Heights, Carlos and me, and the New Orleans Polo Club,” says Fennelly. “The

“Horses have always been part of my life,” he says. Once out of high school, Fennelly began working in Ireland at Summergrove Farm. When he was able to start

A Stroll Through Polo

Enjoy the Food Tent filled with a sumptuous buffet.

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

Event festivities kick off at 11:30am.

Junior League of Greater Covington

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

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Fennelly not only heads up the polo club, which is one

his own farm in Folsom, which he and Sanchez call home

“The great news is that Prince Charles plays polo. The

now, Fennelly passed the name along to it. But it’s every

unfortunate thing is the message that polo is for princes

European’s dream, at least in the horsey set, to be part of

that one gets subliminally—that it’s not for you or me,” says

the Lexington, Ky., thoroughbred scene. Fennelly got his

Fennelly. The New Orleans Polo Club now has 70 members

opportunity and landed at Spendthrift Farm, one of the most

on its roster from all sorts of professional, economic and

prestigious operations in horse racing.

equine-related backgrounds.

“In the thoroughbred magazines I read back in Ireland,

“We have people who never rode but loved the idea

if you open the centerfold pages, the pictures were all from

of polo. They come and learn to ride and then learn to play

farms in Lexington,” he says. “I found a great opportunity

polo,” Fennelly says. “Vice-versa, people who were quite

after all the years in Ireland looking at all the glossy

good riders but had never picked up a mallet have taken to

magazines. I was lucky enough to get a job at Spendthrift

the game. Anybody can play polo.”

Farm. I started at age 21 mucking out stalls, which is the only way you get started at a farm like that.”

Parsons says, “We’ve gotten involved with some of the hunter-jumper and dressage ladies in this area. They’ve started

Fennelly was, as he says, “5-foot-4 and a skinny little

playing polo and have introduced their friends to it. We probably

kid, and everyone thought I had to be a jockey.” But that

have almost as many women playing as we do men. It’s not just

was not the case; although he galloped horses, Fennelly

here—there’s a lot more women involved with polo nationwide.”

never rode in a race. “I was greatly interested in the breeding side. That’s what I did.”

Owning everything you need by way of horses (poloplaying horses are affectionately called “ponies,” although

A horse-owning client who was involved in exporting

they are full-sized animals) and equipment may be an

coal on the Mississippi River offered Fennelly a job in New

investment a player can make down the road but, Parsons

Orleans. He came down to Louisiana and worked hard

notes, that is not a requirement to start riding and learning the

with great success. Fennelly went on to become founder

game. “Initially, it’s very doable. The polo club will provide you

and director of Associated Terminals, which specializes in

with a pony; you can start and can take a lesson.”

transloading bulk cargo (to and from barges and ocean-

“It’s similar to boating,” adds Fennelly. “You don’t have

going vessels, for example), such as coal and grain, on the

to own a big boat and sail every weekend. You can sail

river. He is also a founder and director of Turn Services, a

occasionally with friends.”

barge fleeting and cleaning operation.

The New Orleans Polo Club season runs when the weather is cooler and drier around the northshore. “We start early- to

The New Orleans Polo Club While Fennelly and Sanchez do maintain an interest

mid-March and play through the last weekend in June. We take off July and August and play September through the end of

in breeding, selling and racing thoroughbreds as part

November,” says Parsons. Tournaments and matches are held

of Summergrove Farm’s operation, it’s the playing and

on weekends, and there is a practice session on Wednesdays

promoting polo that Fennelly finds most worthwhile. The

for any members who are able to attend.

New Orleans Polo Club’s phenomenal growth over the past

Just as most clubs have golf and tennis pros to help

few years reflects his infectious enthusiasm for the sport. He

people develop their game, the New Orleans Polo Club

and club manager Doug Parsons have been working hard

counts several professional players from Argentina as

to make polo as inclusive a sport as possible.

members. Summergrove Farm has pro Fernando Ayala

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

Dance to the music of Karma!

Patrons stomp the divots to preserve the playing field.

Harvest C up Polo Classic 2012 7

on staff. “Some of the best players in the world are from Argentina,” says Fennelly. “In Argentina, polo is something that’s part of many people’s lives. There’s a lot of land and a lot of horses, and they start playing polo early in life.” Fennelly explains that professional polo players are hired to boost the level of the game. “We usually anchor the teams around them. They’re there to open up the game and hit the ball to you, to give you an opportunity to develop your play.” Polo handicaps indicate how good a player is. A beginner is a -2, the best in the world is a 10. “The pros here are 2, 3 and 4

We’re featured in magazines. Quality players and high-level

handicaps. They’re very good players,” Fennelly notes.

professionals are now coming here to play and teach polo. It’s really a first for Folsom.”

Fields of Folsom Here’s a fun fact: the northshore area boasts six times more polo fields than all of Los Angeles. Six to one, to be exact.

Live to Ride Fennelly has been involved with New Heights

While L.A. once had 25 fields back in the Hollywood heydays

Therapeutic Riding Center for many years and is pleased

of the 1930s and ’40s, real estate developments gobbled them

to continue supporting it as an owner of Leah Farms by

all up, leaving only one, the legacy of Will Rogers at his former

providing a home for it for the future. It’s all about giving

Pacific Palisades ranch, now a state park.

everyone an opportunity to ride.

Northshore-area polo grounds are gaining a reputation

“Spending time with friends and family and other riders

as some of the best in the country. The right combination

is one of our visions for Leah Farms,” he says. “Everybody

of sun, rain and soil makes for great turf, as players visiting

has the opportunity to ride, whether you’re a polo player or

from out of state learn quickly.

somebody who’s dealing with a disability.” Leah Farms also

The New Orleans club owns no fields itself, but plays at Leah Farms and an adjacent field recently developed, which has been christened Summergrove Field by its owners, an

began hosting a polo event in 2011 to raise funds for the LSU AgCenter’s equine extension programs. Likewise, the New Orleans Polo Club is thrilled to support

homage to their Summergrove Farm a few miles up the

the Junior League of Greater Covington in making its biggest

road. Club members Jennifer and Tim Rice, who have been

fundraising event possible. “The partnership between the New

leaders in promoting the sport of polo on the northshore for

Orleans Polo Club and the Junior League is crucially important

years, Fennelly says, host matches at nearby Innisfree Farm.

to both organizations, and it’s greatly appreciated by the New

Matches are also held at Dr. Buddy Terrel’s farm on Military

Orleans Polo Club., Fennelly says. W”e’re delighted to be

Road. Renowned equine veterinarian Dr. Jay Addison (and

teamed up with the Junior League. They have helped in making

longest-playing member of the club—since 1977) hosts play

so many people in the community aware that polo is here, it’s

at Pine Knoll Farm in Independence. The club also plays in

enjoyable, it’s colorful and it’s accessible.”

Columbia, Miss., at the farm of member Bill Simmons. “It’s very exciting,” Fennelly says. “We’re getting national attention for Folsom polo that we’ve never had before.

To learn more about the New Orleans Polo Club and opportunities to learn how to play polo, go to NewOrleansPoloClub.com or visit the club’s Facebook page. There is spirited competition in the Pretty Woman Fancy Hat Contest.

Cocktails and specialty drinks flow all afternoon.

A visit to the VIP Lounge and a fine cigar might be in order!

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

Harvest C up Polo Classic 2012 9

EACH YEAR, the JLGC Harvest Cup Polo Classic gives art-loving polo aficionados the chance to bid on and own works of art from some of the northshore’s best artists. This year, Mary deSilva’s Harvest Cup Polo poster piece and works donated by 14 other artists will be up for auction. Here’s the scoop on the

talented, and generous, donors.

Poster artist Mary deSilva Self-taught Louisiana artist Mary deSilva resides in Mandeville. She is a freelance acrylic-painting teacher who stresses “art as therapy” in her classes. Mary uses art as a way

Polo Artists 11

of relieving stress and celebrating the whimsy and beauty of family, Louisiana, architecture and wildlife. marydesilva.weebly.com.

Rhonda Alleman 9

Rhonda Alleman always knew she would

one day pick up a paintbrush. Now able to explore her artistic longing, she sees things 14

in a fresh context, as if for the first time. Using layers of glazed acrylics and other elements, Rhonda conveys the sublime aspects of simple life experiences. Her art can be found at Rug

Chic in Mandeville.

Gretchen Armbruster

Gretchen Armbruster employs many media to create everything from portraits 15

to abstract art. Her projects include three Crescent City Classic posters, illustrations for the Bacchus organization and art seen

in the movie He Said, She Said. Gretchen’s work can be found in Mandeville, New 9

Orleans and Park City, Utah. She is also represented by Taylor Clark Gallery in Baton Rouge and Southern Breeze in Jackson, Miss. armbrusterartworks.com.

Junior League of Greater Covington

Jenna Lee Baker Covington resident Jenna Lee Baker is an art

Sally expanded her photography to include digital paintings this past year. This new medium gives

major at Southeastern Louisiana University, where

her the opportunity to take her photographic

she explores the many facets of her artistic ability.

images and digitally paint them, giving the client a

With a strong interest in competition and a love of

large-format canvas print that has the look and feel

natural dynamics, Jenna is attempting to master all

of a painting. vennorman.com.

aspects of her true passion—sculpting. She also

Jax Frey

plans to pursue welding professionally and hopes to further her understanding of painting and drawing.

Jax Frey is an award-winning self-taught artist, life coach and author. She creates bold, highly

Dr. Bob Dr. Bob’s Slidell upbringing shines through

textured and inspirational acrylic paintings. Jax’s work is available at several New Orleans area

in his often humorous folk art. Visitors to his

locations, including Arabella Fine Gifts & Accents.

Bywater studio are welcomed by the likenesses

artbyjax.com.

of the Honey Island Swamp Monster and Onion Head, the Boogie Man of Bayou Bonfuca. While well known for his bottle cap-bedecked signs

John Goodwynne Although he started painting in 1960 and kept

commanding “Be Nice Or Leave!” Dr. Bob’s art

at it for 10 years, John Goodwynne put his art on

encompasses all manner of swamp creatures,

hold while he pursued a career as a homebuilder

hoodoo and gris-gris. For the full Dr. Bob

for over 30 years. While he paints a variety of

experience, visit drbobart.net.

subjects in different media, John’s best known for his nautical-themed watercolors executed in a self-described “realistic impressionism” style.

Susan Brechtel

He actively supports community causes through

Susan Brechtel holds a degree in fine arts

donations of his paintings; his work was chosen

and design. An exhibiting impressionist landscape

for the Madisonville Wooden Boat Festival poster

artist for 30 years, she produces beautiful

in 2007. His paintings can be seen at the Harbor

atmospheric landscapes of the Tchefuncte River.

Shop in Fairhope, Ala.

Susan has worked as a home designer for 20 years and as a kitchen and bath designer at Bella Cucina for the past seven years. Her paintings can be seen at 227 Lee Lane in Covington.

Marcia Holmes Well-known Mandeville abstract impressionist

Opposite page:

artist Marcia Holmes has been actively engaged

1. Mary DeSilva

in equestrian art for more than 10 years. Whether

2. Christy Hughes

Nicole M. Dorignac

large oils on canvas or colorful pastels, her

3. Jenna Lee Baker

Nicole M. Dorignac has painted on and off

energetic paintings have been exhibited in

4. Sally Dunn

her entire life. In 2006, she went back to school

museums, galleries and private collections

5. Dr. Bob

to pursue fine arts. Nicole has spent more than

across the country and in Europe. Her work can

6. Susan Brechtel

200 hours in the studio studying oil painting under

be found at the Garden District Gallery in New

7. John Goodwyne

Fredrick Guess. Now a full-time artist, Nicole

Orleans and Rue du Pont Gallery in Breaux Bridge.

8. Gretchen Armbruster

feels that art is vital to the mind and helpful in

MarciaHolmes.com.

9. Marcia Holmes

processing emotions that sometimes cannot be expressed any other way. nmdorignacart.com.

10. Susan Morgan

Christie Hughes

11. Lori Seals

New Orleans native Christie Hughes has been

Sally Dunn

12. Jim Sietz

painting since 1986 and specializes in abstract

13. Lissa Lee

paintings. Her work has been in movies, galleries,

14. Nicole Dorgniac

documentary photography and portraiture, is

offices, homes and private collections throughout

15. James Michalopolos

celebrating her 20th anniversary in business.

the world. Christie is inspired by Claude Monet,

16. Elizabeth Impastato

Sally Dunn, known for black-and-white

Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2012 11

Peter Max, Picasso and Van Gogh. In addition to

lives at the Blue Plate Artist Lofts. Her current works

having paintings available for purchase, she also

are cityscapes that randomly juxtapose aspects of

accepts commissions. artbychristie.me.

nature and recognizable objects. She also creates unique wire-wrapped jewelry with vintage beads.

Elizabeth Impastato St. Tammany resident Elizabeth Impastato

Stephanie’s artwork and jewelry are available at Welcome Home and garden in Covington and Blue

uniquely manipulates variations of color and textures

Plate Gallery in New Orleans. Facebook: Stephanie

on canvas. Her work has been said to show a

Aline Schoen.

child’s perspective. Elizabeth is most recognized

Lori Seals

for her Street Car paintings. Her work appears in restaurants, businesses and private collections. impastatogallery.com.

Mandeville resident Lori Seals truly appreciates Southern art and architecture. An LSU graduate in design and fine art, Lori works in watercolor, pastels

Lissa Lee Lissa Lee was sketching elaborate stick figures

and oils, painting the essence of New Orleans, Old Mandeville and the Florida panhandle areas. As a

at age 2, but it wasn’t until 2012 that she finally began

professional photographer, she captures nature’s

to seriously master her talent under the guidance of

beauty and later transforms these images into

Larry Casso. She was chosen to display her work

works of art. Lori’s work is available at Arabella Fine

in the 2012 Brush with Burden Art Show and Sale

Gifts & Accents and Welcome Home and Garden.

in Baton Rouge and was mentioned in a Times-

Facebook: Lori Seals Art; lorisealsart.com.

Picayune article featuring the Lacombe Art Guild’s

Jim Sietz

Spring Show. Facebook: Lissa Lee 75.

Jim Seitz is a self-taught, tonal, contemporary

Susan Morgan Susan Tullos Morgan has always had a passion

landscape artist living in the New Orleans area. He uses acrylic glazing techniques (15 to 20 layers) over

for art and design. Her creativity is inspired by

gold- or silver-leaf foregrounds on textured canvas.

Covington’s creative community and the Louisiana

Sietz’s colors are blended on the canvas, not the

surroundings. She enjoys working with mixed media

pallet. He has been a featured landscape artist in

and incorporating finishes with metal leafing, acid

American Art Collector, Western Art Collector and

washes and waxing techniques. Susan’s work

American Artist magazines. He was selected for

can be found at Brunner Gallery in Covington

the fourth edition of the International Contemporary

and in public, corporate and private collections.

Artists hard-bound book. Jim is represented by

susantullosmorgan.com.

galleries in Santa Fe, La Jolla, Atlanta and Houston. jimseitz.com.

Stephen Rue Well-known as a New Orleans attorney and artist, Stephen Rue is also director of the New

Susan Sharp Susan Sharp studied at the University of New

Orleans Art Festival, which debuts in 2013. Rue’s

Orleans and the New Orleans Art Institute and was

work is available at Bonjour Marketplace in

in the last class graduated from the John McCrady

Covington, Le Boulevard Marketplace in Metairie,

Art School. The Polo poster artist for 2009, Susan

Windsor Fine Art and Forever New Orleans and at

uses many different media, including oil, watercolor,

Stephen Rue’s Fine Art Gallery, 4209 Canal St. in

acrylic and pencil, to add a local flair to her

New Orleans. rouxsterart.com.

paintings, which feature a range of subjects from still life to jazz. In addition to local galleries, her work

Stephanie Schoen Artist and jewelry designer Stephanie Schoen, the Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2010 poster artist, 12

Junior League of Greater Covington

can be found in private residences and businesses, including the Galleria in Metairie, as murals and other installations of commercial art.

Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2012 Event Sponsors 2012 COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Food & Beverage 2012

Fine Jewelers & Distinctive Gifts

ACME Oyster Annadele’s Plantation

Cash Sponsors

Beau Chêne Country Club Bistro Byronz

Ten Goal

Bosco s Italian Café

Dunavant Wealth Group

Café Lynn Carmelo Ristorante

Player

Cat’s Meow

Maldonado Dynasty; The Beverly Hills Cigar Brand

Champagne Beverage Coca Cola Refreshments

Chukker

The Cocoa Bean Bakery & Café

Latter & Blum Inc. /Realtors • Capital One Bank

Copelands of New Orleans

The Truitt Law Firm, LLC • Summergrove Farms

Covington Brewhouse

Innisfree Farm • Bevolo Gas and Electric Lights

Don’s Seafood Hut

The Heart of the Forest.com • The NORTH Institute

Friend’s Coastal Restaurant

Integrated Insurance Solutions

Honey Baked Ham

Lisa Bossier, Realtor Coldwell Banker TEC

K Gee’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar Ketel One Vodka

Stirrup

La Provence

Summers Neurosurgery • Mercedes-Benz of New Orleans

Longhorn Steakhouse

Capt. Martin W. Gould Jr. and NOBRA PILOTS

McAlister’s Deli

NOLA Lending Group, LLC

Mellow Mushroom

Saddle

N’Tini’s New Orleans Steak & Martinis

First Bank and Trust • Bmac Interiors

Pinkberry Frozen Yogurt

Menchies Frozen Yogurt

Old New Orleans Rum

Divot

Stone Creek Club & Spa

Louisiana Lottery

T Rivers Bar and Grill

Citizens Bank and Trust

Voo Doo BBQ & Grill

Lakeview Regional Medical Center

Zea’s Rotisserie & Grill

Special Thanks to Our In-Kind Donors David Fennelly for providing the polo field and patron party location. Maldonado Dynasty; The Beverly Hills Cigar Brand for VIP Lounge cigars. Fresh Market for the beautiful arrangements for the reserved tables. Zondra White Jones of Soul Revival for singing the National Anthem. Northshore Satellites For VIP Lounge audio/visual. • Brenda Sison Photography for event photos. Omni Storage for storage of silent auction items. • H2O for VIP Lounge services. NorthshoreLinks.com; GNOLinks.com and BatonRougeLinks.com for internet advertising. MPress and Brennan’s for the printing services. Hammond High School for the Color Guard. 14

Junior League of Greater Covington

Polo

Nuts and Bolts New Orleans Polo Club manager Doug Parsons

explains the game in a nutshell. Our whole polo world is first and foremost about safety for the players and the horses. You have eight guys running 30 mph on horses, and a player or horse can get hurt. Enjoyment comes second. The field is 300 yards long by 160 yards wide. The play periods are called chukkers. We play four-chukker polo— four seven-and-a-half-minute periods with four minutes in between, except between chukkers two and three, which is 10 minutes. It normally takes an hour to an hour and 15 minutes to play each match. There are four players on a team. The numbers on the players are one to four. Number one is the most offensive position and plays upfront. Three is most like the quarterback; he’s the play maker. Four is called the “back,” and his job is to stay to the back; if the other team gets the ball, he defends the goal. He’s very mobile, though—he’s not sitting in the middle of the goal posts like a soccer or hockey goalie. The Harvest Cup and a number of our other games have an announcer who explains the game to the audience so it’s not just watching a bunch of horses chasing a ball around a field. The general theory is that you “make a train.” If the number one has the ball and misses, he should continue to go up and let the number two hit to him. Normally, the three or the four will hit up and pass to the player in front of them. The clock is stopped for penalties. Penalties are normally called for someone crossing what’s called the line of the ball, which is the direction the ball is travelling. You have to be on that line to have a play on the ball. It’s not safe to cut across the field at a 90-degree angle and take the ball away. It’s like the interstate. You can be in one of two lanes, but you better be parallel to each other and not cut across the median. It’s not a free-for-all. It’s all about safety. Harvest Cup Polo Classic 2012 15

Polo INsider by Stephen Faure

Dr. Lori Summers, by Sean Keogh Neurosurgeon and Polo Player DR. LORI SUMMERS SPLITS her neurosurgery practice between Hammond and Covington, and sometimes, the world. As a commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve, she returned home in 2010 after being deployed overseas to treat soldiers as part of Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom. The Kansas City, Mo., native found her way to Louisiana and the horse country of the northshore via her residency in New Orleans. Raised on a ranch, Dr. Summers has been around horses all of her life and says she “always did rodeo stuff—trick riding, barrel racing; that was what we did.” In Louisiana, she started supporting the Louisiana Horse Rescue Association by adopting a racehorse and training it to participate in jumping and trials. She’s since adopted two more thoroughbreds through the association and has had success in training one to take part in her new-found equine passion, polo. Dr. Summers’ involvement with polo began with a friend’s invitation to try it out, but she says she “thought I’d never do that—I’m not that type!” Joining a growing number of women with a background in jumping and dressage, she quickly learned that polo’s reputation as “the sport of kings” is not so true anymore; many people from diverse backgrounds enjoy playing. “It was like any sport. Once I learned to hit the ball, it started becoming fun, and I started getting into it.” Dr. Summers says that although she’s more of a solo competitor by nature, she’s adapted well to the team aspect of polo. “It’s camaraderie. You have to take care of your teammates. You also have to take care of your horse, and your horse takes care of you.” She’s played polo all over the country now, and also in far-off, polo-crazy Argentina. What she her life-long love of horses. “For me, the most rewarding thing since I’ve started was the idea of adopting a horse and then training it to help others to do the sport. You’re giving back; you’re providing a job to an animal that will probably be discarded rather than buying a horse that somebody trained and wants a lot of money for. That’s more rewarding for me.”

Junior League of Greater Covington

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

appreciates most about the sport is that it helps her maintain

select items from the

silent auction tent

1. Tacori sterling silver crescent link necklace features pendant in sterling silver 5

and 18kt rose-gold with 17.75ct smoky quartz accented by .30cttw round brilliant-cut diamonds: chain, $850; pendant, $2,280. Boudreaux’s Fine Jewelers, Mandeville, 6261666. 2. Custom monogrammed children’s clothing, gift certificate. Styling Stitches, stylingstitches.com. 3. Hand-painted Borboleta Wine Cabinet, $499. Pier 1 Imports, Covington, 898-0728. 4. Autographed Stable to Table Menu Cookbook, Recipes from

around the Equestrian World by Dawn Harris Brown, Christy Sanantonio, $35. Rug Chic, Mandeville, 674-1070. 5. Authentic handmade Italian pottery; Wyoming pitcher, $450. Rug Chic, Mandeville, 647-1070. 6. Large hurricane glass set on a Tara Shaw antique reproduction of a sunburst mirror, and two down-filled linen pillows (not shown), $560. Bmac Interiors, LLC, Covington, 635-4540. 7. Jewelry box handmade from sinker cypress, inlaid with Kingman Turquoise, $125. Marek Woodworks, marekwoodworks.com.

not pictured •

Custom 35” x 43” mirror

made from a New Orleans reclaimed window sash with antique cream-colored crackle finish, $400. Northshore Millwork, LLC, Mandeville, 867-1813. 6

• Custom handmade Lazy Susan fabricated from reclaimed wood, banded in beautifully oxidized copper, $300. Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights, Mandeville, 249-6040. • 24” x 13” green landscape on wood by artist Lori Sperier. • Northshore Millwork; a $750 value.

Inside Northside

1. Hammered silver horseshoe necklace, $40. Simply Southern, Covington, 871-1466. 2. Lexington slipcover chair, $1,050. Bmac Interiors, LLC, Covington, 635-4540. 3. Women’s

Myka recreational mountain bike, $525. The Spokesman, Mandeville, 727-7211. 4. Inglesina

not pictured •

Zuma high chair in black,

Smart System, $249. Pool Corp,

$249.99. All About Baby,

Covington, 801-5151. • Laser-

Covington, 898-2222. 5.

cut steel 3D fleur de lis, $75. Elliot

Nina casserole dish with

Bowser, L-E-it.com, 788-0424. •

three interchangeable

Handmade business card holder

party ornaments, $90.

made of sinker cypress inlaid with

Simplee Gourmet,

amethyst, $25. Marek Woodworks,

Covington, 892-8335.

marekwoodworks.com.

Junior League of Greater Covington

ePool

by Kaley Boudreaux

FOR BONNY BARRY, the coming of October means

types of horses are represented, including hunters,

the Parade of Breeds is right around the corner.

jumpers, draft horses, both English and Western style

Barry, owner of Carousel Farms in Folsom, looks

horses and even miniature horses. “The owners have

forward to showing off her prize-winning horse,

a tremendous love for these animals, and we are

Valentino, every year.

proud to let people enjoy our horses,” says Barry.

“Valentino is a beautiful, rare Georgian Grande with jet-black hair, snow-white stockings and mane,

lesson, trains trick and liberty horses and even hosts

and a black-and-white tail,” says Barry. “He is a trick

children’s birthday parties. Some of her horses

horse and entertains children with disabilities across

are a part of New Heights Therapeutic Riding, an

Louisiana.”

organization that uses horses to help individuals

The Junior League of Greater Covington hosts the

overcome emotional, learning or physical disabilities

Parade of Breeds during its annual Harvest Cup Polo

through therapeutic riding. For individuals involved

Classic—this year on Sunday, October 21, at Leah

in the program who cannot ride the horses,

Farms in Folsom.

simply petting and spending time with them help

Barry has been involved with the Parade of

tremendously. “The children really benefit from the

Breeds since it began almost 20 years ago. “The horse

magic of these horses,” says Barry. “The horses are so

industry in Louisiana is so dynamic. The Parade of

intelligent; they understand commands just by using

Breeds gives horse lovers an opportunity to show off

body language.”

the beauty of their horses,” she says. Approximately 15 of Louisiana’s best champion

At her farm in Folsom, Barry gives riding

For Barry, training and showing horses is more than just a hobby; her passion for horses is truly

horses and their owners travel from all over the state to

inspiring. “The emotional bond I have with my horses

participate in the event. Each horse is presented in a

is magical. I trust them. My grandmother put me on my

30-60 second demo during which the announcer reads

first horse when I was in diapers. I never quit and don’t

a description of the horse and identifies its owner. All

plan to quit until the day I die.”

Junior League of Greater Covington

photo courtesy of: JLGC

One Special Horse

Harvest C up Polo Classic 2012 123

B U S I N E S S

P R O F I L E

Comfort and Style EMB Interiors

final selections are made. Because of the vast quantity of selections available in every facet of the home building process, it is very important to begin narrowing choices down in the planning stage to make sure the finished product is both comfortable and pleasing to the homeowner. While working with a client on space planning and creating places for existing furniture, future purchases are taken into consideration so old and new will blend together. “As we work with clients, we get a real sense of how they live, what is important to them and how they want their home to “Creating a comfortable home for our clients is always our main

function,” says Bajon. Linda Mire, who has been working

goal,” says EMB Interiors owner

with the EMB Interiors team for nine years

Ellen Bajon. “Whether we are helping

on various projects, is using them on her

them plan from the ground up or

new home construction. “EMB helped me

re-designing one room, we are there

put everything together from start to finish.

to help every step of the way. We start

Ellen re-designed the master bath to

by creating or evaluating the plans

make it more spacious and lighter. She

long before construction begins.”

helped me to visualize each room and

The EMB Interiors team likes to

took the stress away from me by making

work alongside the architect and/

the whole process enjoyable. EMB

or builder at the start of a project to

Interiors has saved me money on this and

ensure a cohesive and comfortable

other projects. They are a very good team

end product. By working with a client

to work with,” says Mire.

from the beginning, they are able to recommend and obtain bids from

EMB Interiors is located at

sub-contractors as well as identify

4510 Hwy. 22 in Mandeville,

potential costly mistakes before

985-626-1522. embinteriors.com.

124

Inside Northside

126

Inside Northside

1. A motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love. Madonna and child indoor statue, $49.95. Florist of Covington, 892-7701. 2. Put your drink here. Botticino marble coasters, which, when combined, are a map of Lake Pontchartrain, $50. Niche, Mandeville, 624-

4045. 3. Music of the night. 4 ft.-11in. polished ebony classic grand piano, $5,995. Broussardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Piano Gallery, Slidell, 503-5038. 4. Luxe lighting. Crackle-finished table lamp with gold leaf-and-cream striped shade by Flambeau, $359. American Factory Direct, Mandeville, 871-0300. 5. Boogie the night away. The Boogie Monster Dance Kit for ages 3-8: book, leggings and CD, $40. The Silver Plum and 1, 2, Buckle My Shoe, Mandeville, 674-4343. 6. The ultimate party trick. LSU-branded wooden wine bottle holder, $20. Simply Southern, Covington, 871-1466. 7. Hammer it out! Large hammered stainless steel bowl with hammered gold-tone interior, $145. EMB Interiors, Mandeville, 626-1522.

September-October 2012 127

1 2

1. Whooo Whooo. Owl vases, starting at $28. deCoeur Gifts & Home Accessories, Covington, 809-3244. 2. Ghosts, goblins and witches! Set of three festive stackable cake plates, $150. Arabella, Mandeville, 727-9787. 3. Poolside glow. Governor 6

pool house lights in handcrafted copper and brass; prices starting at $350. Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights, Mandeville, 249-6040. 4. It’s beginning to look a lot like fall. 15” orange-flame candle and glass vase with berry candle ring, $50. Rug Chic, Mandeville, 674-1070. 5. Have a cold

one. The Yeti Tundra LSU cooler holds 50 gallons of drinks on ice; available in other team colors; $359.99. Simplee Gourmet, Covington, 892-8335. 6. Chill out! Tote home your frozen yogurt in this striped Chilly Bliss insulated bag, $9.99. Pinkberry, Mandeville, 612-7306. 7. Life’s a beach. Locally handmade turquoise limpet shell treasure box, $275. Welcome Home and garden, Covington, 893-3933.

128

Inside Northside

September-October 2012 129

130

Inside Northside

1. Candle power. Distressed three-arm candelabra, $95. Melange by KP, Mandeville, 807-7652. 2. A fan for a fan. Fleur de lis decorative fan, $99.99. Mandeville Party Company, 674-1605. 3. Bottoms up! Bottle tree, available in three sizes, starting at $270. Outdoor Living Center, Covington, 893-8008. 4. Object of the earth. Large handcarved teak bowl, available in various sizes, starting at $54. the french mix, Covington, 809-3152. 5. Hidden surprises. In Reason 48 in. x 72 in. signed and numbered giclĂŠe by artist A. Pyne, $1,140. Georgian Furnishings/Berger Home, Mandeville, 624-3433. 6. Time-tested. 1920s Belgium oak overseerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chair with hand-woven cane seat panel, $325. Lynn Stirling Antiques, Mandeville, 626-7704. 7. The lap of luxury. Bowron single longwooled natural sheepskin area rug; prices starting at $110. Hestia Luxury in Linens, Covington, 893-0490.

September-October 2012 131

with Sylvia and Walter Berger Georgian Furnishing/Bergerhome Success in business and success in marriage were somewhat foretold at an early age for Walter and Sylvia Berger. Owners of Georgian Furnishing/Bergerhome for the past 18 years, Sylvia and Walter are the type of couple that when you meet them, you’re not surprised to find them finishing each other’s sentences. The pair met while in high school, where they became sweethearts after being together in the Junior 132

Inside Northside

by Stephen Faure

Achievement program. Sylvia lived in Chalmette; Walter was a student at Holy Cross High School. Forty-six years of marriage followed. “We had a Junior Achievement company; he was vice president of production, and I was vice president of sales. We were sponsored by Kaiser Aluminum,” Slyvia says. Kaiser was one of the area’s biggest industries at the time. “We distributed Christmas wrapping foil and made squeegees and tile ashtrays,” remembers Walter. “When people still used ashtrays!” chimes in Sylvia. She notes that their company made a profit, the best of any JA group up to that time. “It’s really an amazing thing. My dad was blue collar; my mother was a school teacher. I had never actually known

photos: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

IN Good Company

anybody who was in an individual business. It was intriguing to learn how it all worked.” “It felt good. We learned how to work together and how much fun we were having together. Lo and behold, that led to a relationship that’s 46 years old,” says Walter. “At least the marriage is 46 years old,” adds Sylvia. Walter’s first career was as a CPA. “I worked for some electronics companies, doing mostly mergers and acquisitions of small pieces we could either put together or break apart.” Sylvia went back to school later in life, commuting to and from Baton Rouge to earn a degree in interior design from LSU at age 40. The Bergers not new to the northshore. They’ve lived in Mandeville, first in Beau Chêne and now in The Sanctuary, for over 20 years. The Mandeville location of Bergerhome is, however, their first business venture on this side of the lake. Walter explains how the family— their son Jay, also a former CPA, is part owner—got into the furniture business. “After I finished my work as a CPA 18 years ago, we started looking for a business I could buy for myself. We saw a lot that met some criteria we had, but mostly, we wanted something we could enjoy.” Sylvia adds, “Something we could look forward to doing every day, something that we had a passion for.” Rather than start from scratch, they tried to find an ongoing business and undertook a deliberate search “below the Mason-Dixon line,” Sylvia says, laughing. They were okay with moving if they had to, but not out of the South. As luck would have it, Georgian Home Furnishings on Jefferson Highway in New Orleans came up for sale. Walter says, “I wanted something >> September-October 2012 133

that was not a startup, that had some mass—a going concern with some momentum that I could understand or knew something about. Suddenly, there was a company that came on the market in our backyard. I didn’t know about the furniture business. I thought I understood it, but I had Sylvia here …” “I had sold furniture before going back to school, but I never thought I’d be in the retail business again,” Sylvia remembers. Walter says he also wanted a business that would require some energy. “I decided it just might work for us if I could orchestrate the design talent, the energy and my business acumen so that we could be successful.” During her design career, Sylvia had been a customer of Georgian Home Furnishings. “My feeling was it was a diamond in the rough. It was rough. It was—and still is—a warehouse, but we’ve done a lot with it. It was paneled walls with fluorescent lighting and some nice furniture, but a lot of ugly furniture, too. So we changed it.” The Bergers were successful in turning the business around. “It was a lot of hard work. People say that business sometimes takes a little luck. But the harder you work, the luckier you are,” says Walter. Sylvia notes that some luck was involved in being in the right place at the right time. In any event, Walter says, “We worked hard over the years to establish a business that has a good reputation in the marketplace. We’re selling to some third-generation customers. Their mother bought from us, their grandmother bought from us …” “And the grandmothers are buying furniture for the kids now,” laughs Sylvia, again in perfect sync with her husband. A licensed interior designer and ASID member, she brings the 134

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benefit of her years of experience to each Georgian Furnishing/Bergerhome customer. “We run this company like a big design company, but we don’t charge for the services. The biggest thing keeping people from buying furniture is fear about whether it’s going to fit in a space and work in their house. Our going into the homes and putting things together is complimentary, but it’s a necessary part of selling something that’s really an investment,” she says. After years of thinking about expanding, another year looking for the perfect location and six more months of build-out, the Bergers opened a northshore store in Mandeville this past spring. They’re carrying the same quality manufacturers that they’ve been so successful with on the southshore: Henredon, Hancock and Moore, Hickory Chair and Hickory White, and more. Sylvia says their Northlake Shopping Center location is ideal. “The traffic pattern is great. The landlord was very accommodating and re-did the façade, gutted the building and polished the floor to this beautiful-looking concrete. I designed the floor plan, and we did everything in an energy-efficient way with LED lights.” The Bergers couldn’t be happier— one reason is that their customers are thrilled, too. “They tell us, ‘We love your [first] store, but it’s on the other side of the lake. We’re glad you’re here,’” Sylvia says. “The most amazing thing to me, and to all of us here, is that three out of four people who walk through the door say ‘thank you.’ It’s touching. It makes me cry sometimes.” Georgian Furnishing/Bergerhome is located on the northshore in the Northlake Shopping Center, 1828 N. Causeway, Mandeville; 624-3433; georgianfurnishing.com. September-October 2012 135

1. Gold-tone chain necklace accented with a single white pearl and gold-tone cross, $50. The Lifestyle Store at Franco’s,

Mandeville, 792-0200. 2. Wideleg brown-and-cream snake-

2 4

print jumper with drawstring waist, $92. POSH Boutique, Covington, 898-2639.

3. Mocha georgette A-line gown by Kathy Ireland features ruched bodice with crisscross pleating, lace cap sleeves and deep-v lace neckline, $478. Olivier Couture, Mandeville, 674-6994. 4. Necklace featuring recycled paper beads, handmade in Kenya, $10. All sales directly benefit beaders and artists in two countries. The Grapevine, Covington, 893-2766. 5. Silk v-neck printed top in taupe, $235. The Mix, Mandeville, 727-7649. 6. Ladies 18k white-gold ring; 3.10 carat oval brilliant-cut natural green sapphire accented by 1.25cttw round brilliant-cut diamonds, $5,775. De Boscq, Mandeville, 674-0007. 7. Donald J Pliner ‘LEE’ brown suede elastic sling-back sandal with snakestamped wedge, $225. Saint Germain, New Orleans, (504) 5221720. 8. MICHAEL by Michael Kors jet set travel bag, $278; matching jet set wallet, $128. Dillard’s at North Shore Square Mall, Slidell, 646-0664.

AUTUMN LEAVES

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AUTUMN LEAVES 5

1. Carnelian, smoky quartz and labradorite genuine stone necklace, $279. Loweâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jewelers, Mandeville, 845-4653. 2. Black-and-brown leather messenger bag with adjustable strap and side fringe accent by Brighton, $210. Accents & Things, Slidell, 649-

4273. 3. Segmented art nouveau-style necklace in the new alloy of platinum silver by New Orleans jewelry designer Tom Mathis, $1,250. Symmetry Jewelers, New Orleans, (504) 861-9925. 4. 100% cotton vintage charcoal heart tee by Alternative, $25. Pure Barre, Mandeville, 674-7577. 5. Chiffon-overlay knee-length dress in sunset tangerine with beaded waistline by Trina Turk, $338. Fleurt, Covington, 8098844. 6. Two-tone dress features sleeveless, deep-v coral top with multi-brown granite-patterned skirt, $186. The Villa, Mandeville, 626-9797. 7. Create this Halloween cutie with fabric and lessons. Precision Sewing, Covington, 249-6156. 8. Christian Louboutin Valonana calf/lame multicolor heels, $1,195. Saks Fifth Avenue, New Orleans, (504) 524-2200.

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AUTUMN LEAVES 1. Trollbeads jewelry clasp and bracelet design in sterling silver with handcrafted charm stones, prices starting at $28. Purple Armadillo Again, Slidell, 643-2004. 2. Art and Soul burlap shoulder bag accented with pink pompoms, $25. Blossom Girl, Mandeville, 662-5065. 3. Silver-tone necklace accented by beaded stone fringe, $50. Private Beach, Mandeville, 237-6040. 4. Aztec printed long-sleeve, hooded, knee-length cardi by Free People, 8

$168. All About Me, Mandeville, 845-2424. 5. Two-button, silk-andcamelhair imperial-blend sports coat with 100% silk rust geometric tie and matching 100% silk rust pocket square: sports coat, $695; tie, $79.50; pocket square, $18. Jos. A. Bank, Mandeville, 624-4067. 6. CC Skye Love 82 Python-embossed oversized Italian cowhide hobo, $595. Emmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shoes, Mandeville, 778-2200. 7. Ladies wideband fashion ring with 0.72cttw of round brilliant diamonds set in 14kt yellow gold, $4,500. Champagne Jewelers, Slidell, 643-2599. 8. Genuine leather 1960 Marley Clutch in Cigar Croco with black rhinestone-studded jaguar clasp and detachable chain shoulder strap by The House of Harlow, $189. Izabellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Villa, Slidell, 649-5060.

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AUTUMN LEAVES 1. Silver “Believe” pendent necklace with fleur de lis charm by local designer Kitzi, $39.99. Perino’s Garden Center, Metairie, (504) 834-7888. 2. Ladies 14k white-gold fashion ring with large pear-shaped garnet accented by 0.25cttw diamonds, $695. Moseley’s Fine Jewelers, Mandeville, 626-5098. 3. Wine-colored drape-neck top with flutter sleeves and kimono belt by Arc & Co., $49. Columbia Street Mercantile, Covington, 809-1789. 4. Sleeveless terra cotta cocktail dress featuring a peplum detail, bateau neckline and matching belt by Alfred Sung; also available in floor length; starting at $224.

Southern Bridal, Mandeville, 727-2993. 5. Silver chain bracelet with interchangeable stone faces by

Kameleon; prices starting at $34. DeLuca’s Expressions in Gold, Covington, 982-2317. 6. Prima Donna’s Naboo bra and panty set in Red Boudoir; breathable fabrics: bra top,

$140; panties, $60. Bra la Vie!, Hammond, 662-5065. 7. Certified vegan Moonstruck handbag in ginger with metal accents by Urban Expressions, $86. Paisley, Mandeville, 727-7880. 8. Steve Madden ELISSAA cognac leather sling-back sandal with tribal print wedge, $129. Shoeffle, Covington, 8986465; Baton Rouge, (225) 761-1105. September-October 2012 143

Cover Artist

from page 21

Graze, providing inspiration. Visitors to Michalopoulos’ gallery and website can get a better idea of his scope, as his portraits, nudes and cemetery-scapes make for very pleasing subjects for his palette. For many, though, his vibrant architectural paintings are most familiar. He talks about how his style developed. “I can remember feeling that I wanted to include the spirit as well as the look of the city. So, for me to do that, I needed to step out of the ordinary. Probably because I was influenced by music, especially listening to music a lot while I worked, I ended up doing a musical interpretation of the buildings. In a sense, people often say my buildings move and dance, and I think that’s where I took my inspiration.” His houses have also been described as “swaying” and “melting,” which, when one thinks about it, is quite the visual accomplishment to achieve when what he’s made “move” on canvas has been, in real life, standing still for two hundred years. It’s almost like the cartoons where the lights go out, the people leave the room and every inanimate object springs to life.

Jazz Fest Favorite For many people in the New Orleans area, the first artwork they collected may have been one of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival’s limited edition posters, five of which were done by Michalopoulos. “I love music, first of all,” he says. “It’s a great opportunity for an artist to contribute something to the city and the festival; it’s a big production effort and it’s a great thing to get engaged in.” Michalopoulos’ first poster, for the 1998 festival, featured Dr. John. “I went to visit with Dr. John in New York, to spend 144

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some time with him, take some photographs and talk about life a bit. Then I set about doing studies of him; I did about 10 or 12,” he says of the production process. “Then I made three or four alternatives. We chose the one that was coming along the best, and I stayed on that one until I brought it home.” He followed up the Dr. John poster with a poster of Louis Armstrong in 2001; in 2003, Mahalia Jackson; Fats Domino (titled Fats Domino Rockin’ to New Orleans) in 2006; and Tousanctified, Michalopoulos’ 2009 poster featuring Allen Toussaint playing the keyboard in the French Quarter.

Creative Living Being out and about making art for so many years in a very eclectic city and producing hundreds of paintings doesn’t mean Michalopoulos takes it all for granted. When he talks about painting, it’s almost surprising to hear all of the cares and concerns that accompany the creative process coming from a very seasoned and very successful artist. In the end, for Michalopoulos, however, perseverance pays off. “As a painter, it’s not as poignant as it used to be. I used to always feel that every one was a piece of crap and that I didn’t have any talent and it would never work out. But at some point, you just go, ‘Well, the hell with it. I’m going to continue away and just do it.’ “And somehow, you manage by virtue of your willingness to stay with it, to come out with something that is hopefully worth looking at. It’s a very interesting game of trust, a delicate balance of allowing expression as opposed to controlling it. You rein herd on it a little bit, you guide it; guide the energy. Somehow, by staying with it, you get into a flow and you get lost in the work toward a relatively free-flowing expression.” He concludes, “Then you’ve got something.” Michalopoulos will complete a painting in two or three days, but lets his work sit in the studio for a few weeks while he continues to evaluate it. Over that period of time, he may re-work it substantially or just touch it up before it goes off to the gallery. To the discomfort of many a gallery owner, he says he’s been known to bring in his palette before a show and correct what he thinks needs correction. It’s all over for Michalopoulos when someone takes a painting home, though. And that, as they say,

is a good thing. “It makes me feel happy. First of all, because it pleases someone. I’m thrilled that someone takes pleasure in it. I’m also happy because it will help me eat, help buy a new motorcycle, all of those things. But the bottom line is really that you make it so that it contributes something to the world.” It shouldn’t be a mystery, then, how Michalopoulos keeps mastering new subject matter and new media after so many years and so many paintings while keeping it all fresh and interesting to buyers. It’s his remaining so emotionally invested in and caring so deeply about creating each piece of his art. In the end, though, the adventure is not all in zipping around New Orleans or in exploring France or feeding people or making rum. For Michalopoulos, “Every day is an adventure in painting. It’s like a triumph every day—of integrity, of engagement and, in a sense, what shows up.” The Michalopoulos Gallery is located at 617 Bienville St. in New Orleans; also visit michalopoulos.com.

Amazing Graze by Michalopoulos.

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photo: SALLY DUNN

L O V E

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M A R R I A G E

The wedding of Megan Gorney and Justin Evans was held in the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at the New Orleans Museum of Art. The Honorable Jim Cunningham officiated the ceremony, and the Faubourg Quartet provided music. The bride’s dress was an ivory silk sheath with a handcrafted vintage-inspired belt. At the reception held inside the museum, guests dined on food from The Lakehouse and danced the night away to music by Crescent City Soul. The museum was adorned with hydrangeas and garden roses in white and pink tones. The couple honeymooned at Parrot Cay in Turks and Caicos and currently resides in Mandeville.

photo: TIM O’ROURKE

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Laddin-Mollere The wedding of Ronda Laddin and Philip Mollere was officiated by Justice of the Peace Susan Leonard at the Secret Garden in downtown Covington. The bride wore a sweeping, princess-style gown of ivory silk; her bouquet included pink and white roses with baby’s breath. All bouquets and arrangements were the creation of the bride, owner of The Secret Garden. Following the intimate ceremony, the couple secondlined down Boston and Columbia streets to the Seiler Bar and Patio for a reception. The couple resides in Mandeville; the groom is scheduled to deploy to Afghanistan in October.

Katie Lacorte and Dominick Teen exchanged vows on the beach in Seaside, Fla. Attending the bride were her sisters, matrons of honor Jennifer Marsiglia and Heather Johnson, and sister of the groom, Noel Teen. Matthew Teen, brother of the groom, served as best man, and Billy Lacorte, brother of the bride, also stood for the groom. Kerry Clanton and Steven and David Peranio were ushers. A host of nephews and a niece of the bride joined the wedding party as ring bearers and flower girl. A lively reception followed on the Lyceum Lawn with an after-party continuing through the night at Bud and Ally’s. 146

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photo: LAUREN KINSEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Lacorte-Teen

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The wedding of Kristen Stoner and Blake Acquistapace took place at Southern Oaks Plantation and was officiated by the brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s uncle, Rev. Randall Stoner. The bride entered in a white horse-drawn carriage. Her vintage gown of Chantilly lace covering antique-colored silk chiffon by Marisa was accented by jewelry from Southern Bridal. The brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s veil was waltz-length, and her bouquet was cream-colored roses, tulips, miniature calla lilies and freesia. Guests enjoyed the wedding cake, which was from the Cocoa Bean. The couple honeymooned in Montego Bay, Jamaica, and resides in Covington.

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photo: KRISLIZ PHOTOGRAPHY

Stoner-Aquistapace

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Pia Gilberti and Dr. Jude Bordelon exchanged vows at St. Anselm Catholic Church in Madisonville. The bride wore her grandmotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 58-year-old lace wedding gown. The bridesmaidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; smoky-blue dresses by Lynn Lugo were from Olivier Couture. The flowers were handmade from tapioca wood peels, tallow berries and raw cotton wrapped in burlap. The bride and groom celebrated with family and friends to the sounds of the 3rd Generation Band at The Lakehouse. After the festivities, the newlyweds made their way through sparklers and well wishes to their getaway car for a honeymoon in Stowe, Vt. They currently reside in Mandeville.

I N

photo: BRITTANY DUFRENE

Gilberti-Bordelon

IN the Spotlight Sonoma Wedding When Mary Cuny and Charlie Barnett began to discuss wedding possibilities, everyone had a romantic setting or ideal location in mind. Friends and family clamored for details and were elated to hear that Sonoma was the wedding destination. However, revealing his romantic nature, Charlie declared the actual ceremony location a secret. In anticipation, 40 people converged on the New Orleans airport for an early morning departure to San Francisco. After an overnight stay, the entire wedding party boarded a chartered bus and headed for wine/ wedding country. At each stop (Francis Coppola, Silver Oak, Ferrarii-Carano), guests were in awe of the beautiful views, incredible weather, fabulous food and, of course, the wine! On the wedding day, excitement was high as the bus rolled into Simi Winery, the surprise destination. Standing on the bridge, with the region’s oldest winery providing a romantic backdrop, Mary and Charlie surprised guests again as good friend Dean Lacy stepped up to officiate the ceremony. The bride was radiant in creme-colored lace. For the evening finale, Zichichi Winery was the destination, where friends were able to take in the sunset while enjoying good food and the company of the former Mandeville resident-turned-vintner. All in all, it was a perfect destination wedding! Friends were thrilled to share in the adventure and honored to be present as Mary and Charlie exchanged vows in the presence of their children.

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INside Peek the Slidell ke a donation to mma Lambda ma Ga er Fund Xi nt of Ce rs er be nc em Ca l M dationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Regiona un Fo l ita tionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sp da Ho un Memorial om left) The Fo cilia Drennan. (Fr Lambda a mm Ga Xi ; in memory of Ce r Sam Caruso, Jr. to rec Di ll Mayor ive de ut Sli ec Acting Ex Betty Hooper; nya Witchen and y Miller, Ka ive tat en representatives Ta res da rep Xi Gamma Lamb a Lambda Freddy Drennan; l Davis; Xi Gamm Bil er fic Of ive ut tty Lostetter. Be d an ll SMH Chief Exec atkins, Nancy Be W n lia Lil s ive tat represen

The St. Scholastic a Academy Class of 1997 celebrated the ir reunion with a picnic and an even ing party.

ber CEOs est Cham W d an st er of any Ea an Chamb St. Tamm the Americ nce g re n fe o n o am were Annual C Executives cky. In tu ce en er K m , m ville Co ts in Louis ience, they participan ning exper ar le e th to Churchill n at io it ty d ar ad tour and p a d y Derby. ye ck jo en f the Kentu o e m o h Downs,

Yvette Monjue e with hosts Elmor d and Jim Inscoe an . ten als W k Chuc

Jennifer Rice and honore e Maggie Murphy with hostess Prisci lla Morse at a riverside margarita pa rty.

Rattlesnake Bill and Raul Gonzales kept the libations flo wing!

Ann and Mag gie Stewart.

with enny Taylor Claire and D . es Barbara Barn

Send your submissions to peek@insidenorthside.com.

INside Peek Rachae l Couvil lion and Cin dy Caru , Sherri Hanse n so.

ke.

Dr. Gary and Dee Agena w ith friends C and Louie H indy oerner at th e July/Augus the Cover A t Meet rtist party he ld at the Lake in Mandeville house .

Adams-Lu and Terry Phil Luke

Katie, C arla and Paul Gag liano.

Lori Rase , Kathy W illia Masson, Dr. and M ms, Robert and Jenny rs. Micha el Hill. a Amand dman, t. d it e R W y ictoria , Dod Barrois als and Dr. V ly r e b Kim ori Se artist L Seals, r vey with he Trufant Har y ve ar H en Author Jane ur arvey III, La H y or bb yl Bo Ta Jr., family bby Harvey Cothran, Bo vey Icamina. ar H h et ab Eliz Harvey and

ulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cheer camp, St. Pa n tio ia e Pom oc ss Divison Hom al Cheer A the Varsity At a Univers r cheer in ei e th ac r pl fo st e ed fir of excellenc ns Team receiv bo n. rib ine evaluatio n and blue treme rout competitio for their ex d an n tio evalua

St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ch eer Team mem bers Hadley Rase, Chrissy Pfister , Becca Magee and El izabeth Lyon received All American recognition at a Universal Ch eer Associatio n camp.

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The SSA R oyalettes p erformed Morning fr their jazz ro om Singin utine, Goo g in the Rai d n, for fam ily and frie nds.

IN the Spotlight Northshoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Finest

The 2012 class of Northshoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Finest, along with their families and friends, celebrated a successful fundraising campaign at the third annual Cystic Fibrosis Leadership Luncheon held at Tchefuncta Country Club. CF Ambassador Families (northshore families living with CF) and sponsors, including Barefoot Wines, The Coudrain Group, Eric Suhre Photography, White Car Marketing, Inside Northside and Hornbeck Offshore Services, toasted the 17 young professionals who raised over $50,000 in support of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Honorees Bob Hancock, Kristen Prestenbach and Mickey Gallagher were the top fundraisers, each exceeding their goal well before the luncheon! A new addition to the luncheon was a video produced by 2011 Honoree Lauren Coudrain. The 2012 Honorees answered questions ranging from what super hero they would like to be and what they wanted to be when they grew up to what they have learned about CF over the course of the campaign and what volunteerism means to them.

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se ren’s College po teachers of Child hre Do di The children and an Br ey rn urt Staff Atto with Slidell City Co made and how on how laws are ion tat en es pr r pies of the after he co ng ldi children are ho courts work. The . urt coloring book new Slidell City Co

Dannielle Halb ert, of Pearl Ri ver, La., shows off the brand new Apple iPad she won as part of North Shore Sq uare’s Give & Spin back-to-sc hool promotio n.

ra O’Krepki, SSA Cheerleaders Sa st Improved who received the Mo ies, who nd Ca e Award, and Elis Award, te ma am Te the d earne s. ard aw ir stand with the

Members of the SSA varsity track team receive awards: Mary Grace Gitz, Field Most Valuable Player; Carly Boyce, Track Most Valuable Player; Lauren Despeaux, Field Coach’s Award; and Monica Guillot, Track Most Improved. Send your submissions to peek@insidenorthside.com.

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her balloons celebrates at Alaina Laizer sh. ba st birthday and bubbles fir

Summer cam pers at Culinary Kids experiment with creative colored volcanoes in the kitchen!

(From left to right) Trish Craddo ck, LFT President Steve Monaghan, St .TFT/ SE President Elsie Burkhalter an d Lizette Pechon attend the 2012 Louisia na Federation of Teachers Unio n Leadership In stitute in Baton Roug e.

sional eir annual Profes Elementary at th ke dla er. oo nt W Ce e of Faculty on Conferenc treat at the Solom Development Re

September-October 2012 157

Young fisherm en Jake Lain caught a 42 in., 30 lb. blac k drum at th e St. Tamman Fishing Pier on y Lake Pontchar train.

INside Peek

(center) Jennifer Thomas e year on celebrates her at the ff sta r he anniversary with rre. re tion of Pu Ba Mandeville loca

The Istrouma Area Co uncil of the Boy Scouts of America rec ently recognized Medical Explorer Pos t 940, chartered by North Oaks Health System, for outstanding service to youth and as the largest post in the Council. (From left) Guy Recott a Jr., chairman, North Oaks Board of Commissioners; Malissa Gonzalez, No rth Oaks Volunteer Coordinator and Medical Explorer Post Adviso r; and Stan Dameron, Friends of Scouting Steering Committee Chairman.

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the plorers for s Medical Ex presented North Oak re school year 2011-2012 -parish area from a five ls o o h iversity. high sc ia uis na Un eastern Lo th u So d an

dd aron Toups, To Kerry Milton, Sh y Bird ar M e Chryl Corizzo, th at ll i Ha Duffin and Vick use. Stevens, Renea Perkins Open Ho

yrssa Brown, School senior M Pearl River High rsity, receives a Southern Unive who will attend holarship from Sc hie Memorial $1,000 Pat Fritc iary of Slidell. the Junior Auxil Kay Schewe of a celebration of Friends gathered for th birthday. Kenny Lacosteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 50

Junior Au xiliary of S lidell President Laurie Jug an presents a Pat Fritch ie Memorial Scholarsh ip in the amou nt of $1,0 00 to Northsho re High S chool sen Kristen M ior arie Van d e Voorde who will , attend th e Univers of Southe ity rn Mississ ippi.

Technology ol of Radiologic North Oaks Scho ogram pr e th m fro s dent graduated 12 stu che fre Du t the E. Bren in ceremonies at d. on mm Ha er in Conference Cent

Hannah Palm er, Elizabeth Wilson, Leah Oaks Nutritio B. Dubret, No nal Services Di rth rector Ann M Yarborough cDaniel-Hall, West, Alexan Kristin dra M. Joffrio North Oaks Di n, Lindsay Fa etetic Internsh ulk, ip Director Vi North Oaks Ed rginia Pelegrin ucation Direct and or Nicole Barn 2012 North O um celebrated aks Dietetic In the ternship Prog ram.

Send your submissions to peek@insidenorthside.com.

IN Development

by Dawn Sharpe-Brackett

EACH MONTH, THE EAST ST. TAMMANY Chamber of Commerce hosts a Public Policy meeting. At a recent meeting, Mayor Freddy Drennan gave an intensive update on the state of the City of Slidell. One of the questions Mayor Drennan receives frequently is, “When are we going to see development at the Fremaux Exchange?” This issue is always on his agenda—sometimes daily. He recognizes this project as a link to growth in

Boating Infrastructure Grant Program, which awarded the City of Slidell $1.5 million to improve the existing bulkhead at Heritage Park and advance a marina facility at the park. The Public Policy Committee recommended and the Board of Directors supported this infrastructure grant because of the possible economic impact it will have on local businesses. This could be the beginning of the Bayou Project that has been promoted by Mayor Drennan. The completion

A Development Update on

Slidell our region. Mayor Drennan has made many trips to Birmingham to meet with the partners on the Summit project. In exchange, he has insisted on their presence at City Council meetings and the provision of updates to the community. With the new leases that have been signed and the most recent development of a portion of the Levis land being designated as a Certified Technical Site, we should be seeing progress soon. We are often reminded that Slidell still faces the lingering effects of Hurriance Katrina today. The storm damage to the sewerage and drainage system is another high priority for the mayor. Working with FEMA for funding and experts in this field, it is the hope of the city administration that the infrastructure issues can be corrected. The East St. Tammany Chamber recently supported the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

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of the Tammany Trace to Heritage Park and the rehabilitation and expansion of the marina will produce an avenue for entrepreneurial ideas that can enhance the quality of life and promote economic development. The East and West St. Tammany chambers are listening to and collaborating with public officials and businesses to be a voice for local businesses. It is the chambers’ intent to promote economic development and prosperity within the region. Governmental affairs task forces within each chamber bring information to the membership and promote actions on specific issues when necessary. Join your local chamber today to join in the voice of business. Dawn Sharpe-Brackett is the CEO of the East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce.

September-October 2012 161

IN Great Taste

Criollo Restaurant and Lounge at the Monteleone Hotel Appetizer: Gulf Shrimp, Blue Crab and Avocado – Jumbo lump crab layered with fresh diced avocado and local tomato. Finished with a spicy tomato coulis. Entrée: Sugarcane Skewered Swordfish – Eye-cut swordfish skewered with sugarcane. Served over a tropical quinoa salad with a delicate coconut curry sauce. Dessert: Warm Chocolate Savarin – Warm chocolate génoise filled with stone-ground chocolate ganache. Accompanied by caramelized Bing cherries and vanilla gelato.

Simplee Gourmet The Emile Henry Grilling Stone makes grilling kabobs easy. Thanks to the barbeque ceramic, your kabobs are protected from the flames and are cooked evenly. The stone keeps food hot longer and delicate foods can be cooked directly on the stone. Chicken Kebobs 4 chicken breasts, cut into 1” pieces 2 springs thyme 1 large zucchini, cut into 1” pieces 2 tsps curry powder 12 cherry tomatoes 1 tbsp sesame oil 12 dried apricots 2 tbsps olive oil

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Prepare kabobs by alternating chicken, apricots, zucchini and cherry tomatoes on skewers. Mix together thyme, curry, sesame and olive oil. Brush mixture over kabobs. Place kabobs onto grill stone on the grill until the chicken is cooked.

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

ABITA SPRINGS Abita Barbecue, 69399 Hwy. 59, 8920205. Ribs, brisket, chicken, pulled pork and boudin. MCC. Abita Brew Pub, 72011 Holly St., 8925837. On the Trace. Good food, great beer. Lunch, dinner. abitabrewpub.com. MCC. Abita Springs Café, 22132 Level St., 867-9950. Southern cooking for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Tues-Sun. MCC. Breakaway Cafe, 71667 Leveson St., 809-8998. Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm. Camellia Café, 69455 Hwy. 59, 8096313. Traditional seafood and New Orleans cuisine. thecamelliacafe.com. MCC. Mama D’s Pizza & More, 22054 Hwy. 59, 809-0308. Great pizza, sandwiches, pasta, fresh homemade bread. Lunch, dinner. mamadspizza.com.

Del Porto Restaurant, 501 E. Boston St., 875-1006. Northern Italian cuisine. delportoristorante.com. MCC, RR. Di Martino’s, 700 S. Tyler St., 2766460. Great food and reasonable prices. Lunch, dinner. dimartinos.com. MCC.

Annadele’s Plantation, 71518 Chestnut St., 809-7669. Yellow fin tuna, domestic lamb & much more. annadeles.com. MCC, checks.

El Portal, 1200 Business 190, 867-5367. The English Tea Room, 734 Rutland St., 898-3988. Authentic English cream teas. Special event teas, English scones, crumpets and cakes. Serving breakfast and lunch. Mon-Sat, 7:30am-6pm. englishtearoom.com. MCC, RR. Four Seasons Chinese Buffet, 600 N. Hwy. 190, 893-3866. MCC. Gallagher’s Grill, 509 S. Tyler St., 892-9992. Lunch and dinner, Tues-Sat. gallaghersgrill.com. MCC, RR. Isabella’s Pizzeria, 70452 Hwy. 21, Ste. 500, 875-7620; 1331 Hwy. 190, 809-1900. Salads, gourmet pizza, sandwiches, paninis, calzones and pasta. isabellaspizzeria.net. Italian Pie, 70488 Hwy. 21, 871-5252. Pizza, salads, pasta, sandwiches. Dine in or carry out. italianpie.com. MCC, checks.

The Chimes, 19130 W. Front St., 8925396. Lunch and dinner. thechimes.com. MCC.

Jerk’s Island Grill & Daiquiri Bar, 70437 Hwy. 21, 893-1380. jerksIslandgrill.com.

Coffee Rani, 234-A Lee Ln., 8936158. Soup and salad specialists. coffeerani.com.

Lola, 517 N. New Hampshire St., 892-4992. Lunch, Mon-Fri; Dinner, Fri-Sat. Closed Sundays. Daily lunch specials, local produce, Louisiana seafood, everything housemade. lolacovington.com. >>

Columbia St. Seafood, 1123 N. Columbia St., 893-4312.

Dakota Restaurant, 629 N. Hwy. 190, 892-3712. Contemporary Louisiana cuisine using local and seasonal ingredients. thedakotarestaurant.com. MCC, RR.

Don’s Seafood Hut, 126 Lake Dr., 327-7111. Lunch and dinner. donsseafoodonline.com. MCC.

The Cheesesteak Bistro, 528 N. Columbia St., Covington, 875-9793. Original cheesesteak sandwiches, soups, salads, gumbo and super spuds. Breakfast, lunch. All under $10. MCC, checks.

Copeland’s, 680 N. Hwy. 190, 809-9659. Authentic New Orleans cuisine. Lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Online take-out orders at copelandsofneworleans.com. MCC, ME, RR.

Albasha, 1958 Hwy. 190, 867-8292. Mediterranean cuisine. albashabr.com. MCC.

Carreta’s Grill, 70380 Hwy. 21, 8716674. Great Mexican cuisine and margaritas served in a family-friendly atmosphere for lunch and dinner. Kids eat free every Wednesday! Private events and catering also provided. carretasgrill.com. MCC.

Columbia St. Tap Room & Grill, 434 N. Columbia St., 898-0899. Daily specials, appetizers, sandwiches, salads, soups and burgers. Live music Thurs-Sat nights. Lunch, dinner. covingtontaproom.com. MCC, ME.

DiCristina’s Restaurant, 810 N. Columbia St., Ste. C, 875-0160. Conveniently located next to the new Covington Courthouse. Italian and seafood. dicristinas.com. MCC.

Buster’s Place, 519 E. Boston St., 809-3880. Seafood, po-boys, steaks. Lunch, dinner. MCC.

Seafood platters and po-boys. columbiastreetseafood.com.

COVINGTON Acme Oyster House, 1202 Hwy. 190, 246-6155. Established 1910 in New Orleans, 1995 on northshore. Seafood, sandwiches, local favorites. Lunch, dinner. mamdspizza.com. MCC.

Bear’s Restaurant, 128 W. 21st St., 892-2373. Best po-boys in the world.

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Mattina Bella, 421 E. Gibson St., 8920708. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. MCC, checks. McAlister’s Deli, 206 Lake Dr., Ste. 15, 898-2800. Great sandwiches, salads, overstuffed potatoes. mcalistersdeli.com. MCC, checks. Megumi of Covington, 1211 Village Walk, 893-0406. megumirestaurant.net. Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers, 1645 Hwy. 190, 327-5407. Salads, pizzas, calzones. MCC. mellowmushroom.com. Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt, 104 Lake Dr. #1, 898-6362. menchies.com. New Orleans Food and Spirits, 208 Lee Ln., 875-0432. Grilled fish, smothered rabbit and voodoo crawfish rolls. Family owned and operated. neworleansfoodspirits.com. MCC. Nonna Randazzo’s Italian Bakery and Caffè, 2033 N. Hwy. 190, Ste. 5, 893-1488. Full service, year-round bakery. Luncheon salads, panini, catering, donuts, kingcakes, cupcakes and wedding cakes. Tues-Sun, open at 7am. nonnaskingcakes.com. MCC. North Island Chinese, 842 N. Collins Blvd., 867-8289. Northshore Empress, 31 Louis Prima Dr., 871-6975. northshoreempress.com. Osaka 21 Japanese Restaurant, 70340 Hwy. 21, 809-2640. Osaka West Japanese Restaurant, 804 N. Hwy. 190, 871-8199. osakawest.com Pardos, 69305 Hwy. 21, 893-3603. An American bistro with a blend of multi-cultural cuisine with local flair. Frutta del mar pasta, rosemary-grilled shrimp, roasted chicken. Lunch, TuesFri; Dinner, Tues-Sun; Happy hour, Tues-Fri, 4-7pm. Private parties and catering. pardosbistro.com. MCC. Pat’s Seafood Market and Cajun Deli, 1248 N. Collins Blvd., 892-7287. Jambalaya, gumbo, stuffed artichokes. MCC, checks, ME. PJ’s Coffee & Tea Co., 70456 Hwy. 21, 875-7894. Catch your morning buzz at this convenient drive-thru! Catering. MCC. Pizza Man of Covington, 1248 N. Collins Blvd., 892-9874. Checks, ME. Renaissance Antiques & Gifts with the Original Soda Fountain & Café Cabaret, 322 N. Florida St., 892-7220. Nostalgic soda fountain for lunch and after school, six days a week. Sage Café, 501 N. Hwy. 190, 8010092. Breakfast, lunch and dinner prepared from scratch with attention to detail. Drink specials. MCC.

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Sala Thai, 315 N. Vermont St., 2496990. Special salads, spring rolls, soups, noodle and curry dishes. SunThurs, 11am-9pm; Fri-Sat, 11am-10pm. Lunch buffet weekdays, 11am-3pm. salathaibysu.com. MCC. Schwing’s Restaurant, 1204 W. 21st Ave., 893-1899. Fresh seafood and home cooking. schwingsrestaurant.com. MCC. Sicily’s Pizza, 301 N. Hwy. 190, 8930005. Pizza, lasagna, salad bar, dessert pizzas. MCC, ME. Sweet Daddy’s, 420 S. Tyler St., 898-2166. Pulled pork, brisket and ribs. sweetdaddysbarbq.com. MCC, ME. Thai Chili, 1102 N. Hwy. 190, 8090180. Thai Spice, 1581 N. Hwy. 190, 8096483. Thai Taste, 1005 N. Collins Blvd., 809-7886. Thai Thai, 1536 N. Hwy. 190, 809-8905. Tony Bosco’s at TerraBella, 141 TerraBella Blvd., 612-7250. Authentic Italian cuisine. Lunch, dinner, private meeting room, catering. tonyboscos.com. Vasquez Seafood & Po-Boys, 515 E. Boston St., 893-9336. Cuban sandwiches and more. vazquezpoboy. com. MCC, checks, ME. Yujin Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar, 323 N. New Hampshire St., 809-3840. Japanese cuisine and sushi in a casual atmosphere. MCC. Zea Rotisserie & Grill, 110 Lake Dr., 327-0520. Inspired American food. zearestaurants.com. MCC. HAMMOND Adobe Cantina & Salsa, 1905 W. Thomas St., 419-0027. Fine Mexican cuisine, good spirits, great friends and fun. Ceviche (marinated fish) and Mexican pasta. Live band. adoberestaurant.com. MCC. Brady’s, 110 SW Railroad Ave., 5426333. bradysdowntown.com. Cocoa Bean Bakery and Cafe, 910 E. Main St., 345-2002. Specialty cakes, pastries. Serving breakfast and light lunch. Specials. thecocoabeanbakery.com. MCC. Don’s Seafood & Steak House, 1915 S. Morrison Blvd., 345-8550. donsseafoodonline.com. MCC. Jacmel Inn, 903 E. Morris St., 542-0043. Casual fine dining including Creole, Italian, Caribbean and Southern cuisines. Handtrimmed steaks, seafood and specialties. Dinner, Tues-Sun; Lunch, Wed-Fri; Sunday Brunch; Closed Mondays. jacmelinn.com. MCC, checks. Kirin Sushi, 221 E. Cate St., 5428888. First Japanese sushi restaurant in

i Hammond! Dragon roll, Kirin roll, sake. kirinjapanesecuisine.com. MCC. La Carreta Authentic Mexican Cuisine, 108 N.W Railroad Ave., 4199990. Festive Mexican atmosphere, fresh food from traditional recipes, outstanding service and value. Live music. Lunch and dinner seven days a week. carretarestaurant.com. MCC. Old MacDonald’s Smokehouse, 1601 N. Morrison Blvd., 542-7529. BBQ brisket, ribs, chicken and sausage. oldmacdonaldsmokehouse.com. MCC, checks. Tommy’s on Thomas, 216 W. Thomas St., 350-6100. Pizza, pastas. Lunch, dinner. tommysonthomas.com. MCC, checks. Tope là, 104 N. Cate St., 542-7600. Contemporary delights. topela.com. MCC. Trey Yuen Cuisine of China, 2100 N. Morrison Blvd., 345-6789. Innovative quality Chinese food served in Imperial surroundings. treyyuen.com. MCC, checks. VooDoo BBQ & Grill, 2108 W. Thomas St., 345-1131. “Taste our Magic.” voodoobbq.com. MCC. Yellow Bird Café, 222 E. Charles St., 345-1112. A great place to start your day. Breakfast, lunch. MCC, checks. LACOMBE Janie Brown’s Restaurant, 27207 Hwy. 190, 882-7201. Casual dining with a great atmosphere. MCC, checks. La Provence Restaurant, 25020 Hwy. 190, 626-7662. Owner John Besh combines hospitality with French cuisine and welcoming hearths. Dinner, Sunday brunch. laprovencerestaurant.com. MCC, checks. RR. Sal & Judy’s, 27491 Hwy. 190, 882-9443. Great food and line of retail products. Family-owned for 27 years. Veal is the house specialty. salandjudys.com. MCC, RR. MADISONVILLE Cafe Madisonville, 410 Covington Hwy., 792-4506. Soups, salads, sandwiches and lunch specials.  Coffee’s Boilin’ Pot, 305 Old Covington Hwy., 845-2348. Boiled seafood in a family atmosphere. coffeesboilingpot.com. Friends Coastal Restaurant, 407 St. Tammany St., 845-7303. Key West meets New Orleans in this island casual dining atmosphere. Lunch, dinner. friendscoastal.com. MCC. RR. Frog’s Pizzeria, 302 Hwy. 22, 8459500. frogspizza.com. Keith Young’s Steakhouse, 165 Hwy. 21, 845-9940. Steak, crab cakes. Lunch, dinner, Tues-Fri. keithyoungs.net. MCC. Morton’s Boiled Seafood & Bar,

702 Water St., 845-4970. Relaxed atmosphere, seafood, daily specials. Lunch, dinner. MCC, checks. Water St. Bistro, 804 Water St., 845-3855. Casual ambiance on the Tchefuncte. Lunch and dinner, WedSun. mortonsseafood.com. MCC. MANDEVILLE The Barley Oak, 2101 Lakeshore Dr., 727-7420. Serving 130 styles of beer, call and premium liquors. Lunch and dinner. thebarleyoak.com. MCC. Bear’s Grill & Spirits, 1809 N. Causeway Blvd., 674-9090. Bear’s po-boys and more. bearsgrillandspirits.com. MCC. Benedict’s Plantation, 1144 Lovers Ln., 626-4557. Traditional New Orleans cuisine. Dinner, Sunday brunch. benedictsplantation.net. MCC. Bosco’s Italian Café, 2040 Hwy. 59, 624-5066. boscositalian.com. Broken Egg Café, 200 Gerard St., 624-3388. Excellent choice for brunch! Pasta, specialty salads, sandwiches. anotherbrokenegg.com. MCC. Café Lynn Restaurant and Catering, 3051 E. Causeway App., 624-9007. Casual fine dining for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch by Chef Joey Najolia. Catfish remoulade, pasta du jour. TuesFri, lunch: 11am-3pm. Dinner, 5pm. Catering provided. cafelynn.com. MCC. Casa Garcia, 800 N. Causeway Blvd., 951-8226. Redefining Mexican food one meal at a time. MCC. Causeway Café, 527 N. Causeway Blvd., 626-9997. MCC. Chili’s Bar & Grill, 3420 Hwy. 190, 727-2771. Fajitas and the Awesome Blossom. Lunch, dinner. chilis.com. MCC, ME. Coffee Rani, 3517 Hwy. 190, 6740560. Soup and salad specialists. Coscino’s Pizza, 1817 N. Causeway Blvd., 727-4984. New York hand-tossed pizza and Italian foods cooked on stone using the finest ingredients. MCC. Country Kitchen, 2109 Florida St., 6265375. countrykitchenrestaurants.com. Fat Spoon Café, 68480 Hwy. 59., 809-2929. Breakfast, lunch, TuesSun. 7am-2pm. Breakfast served until 10:30am on weekdays and all day Saturday and Sunday. Reserve Fat Spoon Cafe for your next party. fatspooncafe.com. MCC. Fazzio’s Seafood & Steakhouse, 1841 N. Causeway Blvd., 624-9704. Fresh fish daily, aged beef, traditional Italian. Lunch, dinner. fazziosrestaurant. com. MCC, ME, RR. Franco’s Grill,100 Bon Temps Roule, 792-0200. Fresh organic foods >> for breakfast, lunch and takeout.

September-October 2012 165

myfrancos.com/dining. MCC. George’s Mexican Restaurant, 1461 N. Causeway Blvd., 626-4342. Family owned. Fajitas, George’s nachos, Carne al la Parrilla. Best top-shelf margaritas in town. georgesmexicanrestaurant.com. MCC, ME. Gio’s Villa Vancheri, 2890 E. Causeway App., 624-2597. Sicilian specialties by 5-star chef Gio Vancheri. Lunch and dinner, Mon-Sat. giosvillavancheri.com. MCC. RR. Hong Kong Restaurant, 2890 E. Causeway App., 626-8222. MCC. Isabella’s Pizzeria, 2660 Florida St. (in the Florida Street Market), 674-5700. Salads, gourmet pizza, sandwiches, paninis, calzones and pasta. isabellapizzeria.net. Italian Pie, 4350 Hwy. 22, 626-5252. Pizza, salads, pasta, sandwiches. Dine in or carry out. italianpie.com. MCC, checks. Izumi, 2660 Florida St., 624-8664. Sushi, Japanese specialties. izumi.com. MCC. Juniper, 301 Lafitte St., 370-8713. Progressive Creole cuisine. Lunch, dinner, brunch. juniperrestaurant.net. MCC, checks. K. Gee’s, 2534 Florida St., 626-0530. Featuring Louisiana seafood with raw oysters 1/2 price on Tuesdays. Express lunch and daily lunch specials under $10. Mon-Thurs, 11am-9pm; Fri-Sat,

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11am-10pm. kgeesrestaurant.com. MCC.

Italian. Lunch and dinner, Mon-Sat. mandinasrestaurant.com.

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

Maw Maw’s, 1461 N. Causeway Blvd., Ste. 11, 727-7727. Soups, salads, stuffed potatoes, sandwiches, po-boys.

La Madeleine French Cafe, 3434 Hwy. 190, 626-7004. lamadeleine.com. The Lakehouse, 2025 Lakeshore Dr., 626-3006, events 807-5014. Restaurant and special events venue open 7 days for private events. Dinner, Fri-Sat. Sunday brunch. lakehousecuisine.com. MCC. Little Tokyo, 590 Asbury Dr., 7271532. littletokyosushi.com. Louie & The Redhead Lady, 1851 Florida St., 626-8101. louieandtheredheadlady.com. Macaroni Grill, 3410 Hwy. 190, 7271998. Penne rustica, pasta Milano, other Italian favorites. Lunch, dinner. macaronigrill.com. MCC, ME. Mande’s, 340 N. Causeway App., 6269047. Serving breakfast and lunch, daily specials. Mandina’s, 4240 Hwy. 22 in Azalea Square Shopping Center, 674-9883. Seafood, Creole and

Megumi Japanese Cuisine, 4700 Hwy. 22, Suites 11 and 12, 845-1644. Yakimono and sushi bar. Lunch, dinner. megumirestaurant.com. MiMamacita’s New Mexican Cuisine, 2345 Florida St., 674-1400. Great food and margaritas. Lunch, dinner, catering. MCC. Monster Po-Boys, 1814 N. Causeway App., 626-9183. Lunch, dinner. N’Tini’s, 2891 N. Hwy. 190, 626-5566. Steaks, martinis. Lunch specials. Mon.Sat. ntinis.com. MCC. Nuvolari’s, 246 Girod St., 626-5619. In Old Mandeville. Gnocchi, escargot, filet mignon, linguini fruta di mare. Dinner. Open seven nights a week. MCC. nuvolaris.com. Old Mandeville Café (formerly Kickstand Café and Bike Rental), 690 Lafitte St., 626-9300. kickstand.bz.

3436. petuniasplace.com. Pinkberry, 3460 Hwy. 190, 612-7306. Sun-Thurs, 11am-10pm. Fri-Sat, 11am-11pm. Pinkberry is the original tart frozen yogurt that is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy paired with high quality, fresh cut fruit and premium dry toppings. pinkberry.com. PJ’s Coffee & Tea Co., 2963 Hwy. 190, 674-1565. Catch your morning buzz at the convenient drive-thru! Catering. pjscoffee.com. MCC. Rip’s on the Lake, 1917 Lakeshore Dr., 727-2829. Ristorante Carmelo & Pizzaria, 1901 Hwy. 190, 624-4844. Family-oriented Italian cuisine. Lunch and dinner. MCC. Rusty Pelican, 500 Girod St., 778-0364. Lunch, dinner. rustypelicanbythelake.com. MCC. Sake Gardens Japanese Restaurant, 1705 Hwy. 190, 624-8955. Sesame Inn, 408 N. Causeway Blvd., 951-8888. Finest Chinese cuisine. Shuck & Jive, 643 Lotus Drive, 6261534. shucknjivemandeville.com. MCC

Pal’s Ice Cream and Yogurt Shop, 2201 Eleventh St., 626-0293. “Only 8” all-natural no-fat yogurt, banana splits, smoothies. Soups, sandwiches. MCC.

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

Petunia’s Place, 2020 Hwy. 59, 674-

Subway, 1665 Hwy. 190, 674-0733.

i Sandwiches, salads. Low-fat available. subway.com. MCC. Taqueria Noria, 1931 Hwy. 59, 7277917. Lunch, dinner. Times Bar & Grill, 1896 N. Causeway Blvd., 626-1161. Famous hamburgers, starters, steaks and more. Lunch, dinner. timesgrill.com. ME, MCC.

Taste of Bavaria Restaurant & Bakery, 14476 Hwy. 22, 3863634. Charming Bavarian bungalow, European-style breakfast, German-style lunch. tasteofbavariastaurant.com. MCC, checks.

Trey Yuen Cuisine of China, 600 N. Causeway Blvd., 626-4476. Quality China cuisine with Louisiana flair. Lunch, dinner. treyyuen.com. MCC, checks. Vianne’s Tea House, 544 Girod St., 624-5683. A full café menu with over 120 loose leaf and speciality teas. Breakfast, lunch. viannes.com. MCC.

Assunta’s, 2631 Hwy. 190 W., 6499768. Italian food, extensive wine selection. Dinner. assuntas.com. MCC, checks.

Vigroux Po-Boys, 2625 Florida St., 231-7314. Lunch, dinner.

Bear’s Grill & Spirits, 550 Gause Blvd., 201-8905. Po-boys and more. bearsgrillandspirits.com. MCC.

PONCHATOULA Middendorf’s Seafood Restaurant, 30160 Hwy. 51, 386-6666. middendorfsrestaurant.com. Rockefeller’s, 147 N.W. Railroad Ave., 370-0930. Fresh, global, vibrant cuisine. Open 7 days a week. rockefellersrestaurant.com. MCC. Sister’s Coffeehouse & Cafe, 18440 Hwy. 22 E., 370-9424. Warm, friendly atmosphere, unique food, gourmet

coffees, teas. MCC, checks.

SLIDELL A Touch of Italy Café, 134 Pennsylvania Ave., 639-0600. Seafood, veal, steaks, daily specials. Lunch, dinner. kathrynandcompany.com. MCC, checks.

VooDoo BBQ & Grill, 2999 Hwy. 190 E., 629-2021. “Taste our Magic.” voodoobbq.com. MCC.

Bistro de la Reine, 2306 Front St., 288-4166. Sunday brunch, live entertainment, fine wines and spirits. Open seven days a week. bistrodelareine.com. MCC. Camellia Cafe, 525 Hwy. 190, 649-6211. Traditional seafood and New Orleans cuisine. thecamelliacafe.com. MCC. Carreta’s Grill, 137 Taos St., 847-0020. Great Mexican cuisine and margaritas served in a family-friendly atmosphere for lunch and dinner. carretasgrill.com. MCC. Eddie D’s, 39510 Hwy. 190 E., 847-1000.

KY’s Olde Towne Bicycle Shop, 2267 Carey St., 641-1911. Casual dining in former bicycle shop. Kids’ menu. Lunch, dinner. kysoldetowne. com. MCC, checks. La. Pines, 1061 Robert St., 641-6196. Meet under the water tower for Ahhhfullwaffles, Sugar Watcher specials. Breakfast, lunch. lapinescafe.com. MCC, checks. Michael’s, 4820 Pontchartrain Dr., 649-8055. Steaks, seafood, veal, duck, eggplant au gratin. Extensive wine selection. Dinner. Palmettos on the Bayou, 1901 Bayou Ln., 643-0050. palmettosrestaurantslidell.com. Phil’s Marina Café, 1194 Harbor Dr., 641-0464. philsmarinacafe.net. Shenanigans Irish Pub & Fare, 2165 W. Gause Blvd., 288-5286. Authentic Irish food, drink and entertainment in a traditional pub atmosphere. Smoothie King, 150 Northshore Blvd., 781-3456. Low-fat health drinks. smoothieking.com. MCC, checks. Steak Out, 1325 Gause Blvd., 6458646. Eat in or delivered to you. steakout.com. MCC. Tacos and Beer, 2142 Front St., 6414969. Lunch, dinner and late-night.

Times Bar & Grill, Front St., 641-4969. Famous hamburgers, starters, steaks and more. Lunch, dinner. timesgrill.com. ME, MCC. The Wine Market, 2051 E. Gause Blvd., 781-1177. Deli restaurant, lunch, 11am-3pm. Sandwiches, soups, salads, wraps. MCC and checks. Young’s Restaurant, 850 Robert Blvd., 643-9331. Steaks, seafood, nice wine selection. Dinner. youngssteakhouse.com. MCC, checks. NEW ORLEANS/SOUTHSHORE Café Giovanni, 117 Rue Decatur, (504)529-2154. Chef Duke’s New World Italian Cuisine. Dinner, Sun-Thurs, 5:30-10pm. Fri-Sat, 5:30-11pm. Live Entertainment Wed, Thurs, and Friday Evenings. Perfect Catering for next social or business event. Cafegiovanni.com. RR. Criollo Resturant and Lounge at Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal St., (504)523-3340. hotelmonteleone.com/criollo/. MCC, RR R’evolution, 777 Bienville St., (504)553-2277. Located at the Royal Sonesta Hotel. Offering modern, imaginative reinterpretations of classic Cajun and Creole Cuisine. Triptych of Quail, Gulf Shrimp, Grits “Villages de L’est and Oysterman’s spaghettini. Revolutionnola.com. RR.

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Inside Northside

Directory of Advertisers ADVERTISER...........................CONTACT INFO PAGE 10/12 Properties.................... 985-626-8200 148 Accents & Things.................... 985-649-4273 130 Advanced Hand Specialists..... 985-674-4170 32 Agena, Dr. Gary M. - OBGYN.... 985-845-7121 94 Air Blow Dry Bar & Salon........ 985-626-1402 54 Al’s Plumbing Co.................... 985-845-9390 74 All About Me.......................... 985-845-2424 126 American Factory Direct.......... 985-871-0300 19 Arabella Fine Gifts.................. 985-727-9787 129 Armbruster Artworks Studio.... 985-630-6295 78 Artistry of Light...................... 225-247-8963 23 Askhimbooks.com..............askhimbooks.com 85 Asset One.............................. 985-727-2834 77 Bamboo Gardens....... bamboogardensla.com 95 Beau Chêne Country Club...... 985-845-3571 25 Bedico Creek Preserve............ 985-845-4200 156 Bella Cucina........................... 985-626-7886 147 Benchmark Investment Group.985-635-0770 86 Berger Home.......................... 985-624-3433 37 Berry, Dr. C.M......................... 985-345-2555 7 Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights... 985-249-6040 P-5 Blossom Girl........................... 985-626-6280 141 Boudreaux’s Fine Jewelers...... 985-626-1666 11 Bra la Vie .............................. 985-662-5065 138 Broussards Pianos.................. 504-621-1749 86 Brown Family Orthodontics..... 985-626-8297 67 Café Giovanni........................ 504-529-2164 164 Café Lynn Restaurant............. 985-624-9007 166 Capital One............................capitalone.com P-20 Cardio Vascular Associates...... 985-871-0735 144 Carreta’s Grill........ 985-871-6674, 847-0020 30 Cedarwood School................. 985-845-7111 62 Champagne Jewelers............. 985-643-2599 29, 80 Chris Whitty Construction....... 985-847-9417 161 Christwood Retirement Community............... ......................................... christwoodrc.com 28 Columbia Street Mercantile.... 985-809-1789 137 Compounding Corner............. 985-792-5041 87 Covington Brewhouse...champagnebeverage.com P-20 Creating U............................. 985-796-1818 24 Culinary Kids.......................... 985-727-5553 43 De Boscq Jewelry................... 985-674-0007 90 deCoeur...................................... decoeur.net 137 DeLuca’s Expressions in Gold.... 985-892-2317 142 Designs in Windows............... 985-209-1689 168 D.R. Horton............................ 225-270-1078 10 Dunavent Wealth Management... 985-727-0770 P-IBC EMB Interiors......................... 985-626-1522 124 Emma’s Shoes and Accessories... 985-778-2200 142 English Tea Room, The............ 985-898-3988 147 Etan Enterprises..................... 985-966-7042 34 Eye Care Surgery Center......... 985-892-4858 6 Fairway Medical Surgical Hospital.................. ......................................fairwaymedical.com 133 Fielding Photography.............. 985-626-7549 96 Fitness Expo........................... 985-624-9990 67 Fleurt..................................... 985-809-8844 138 Florist of Covington................ 985-892-7701 24 Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter.......... ............................................. 800-535-7891 32 Franco’s Athletic Club............. 985-792-0200 BC French Mix, The...................... 985-809-3152 16 Galerie d’Art Francais............. 504-581-6920 26 George’s Mexican Restaurant..... 985-626-4342 165 GNO Property Management... 504-525-2985 161 Grand Hotel........................... 800-544-9933 43

ADVERTISER...........................CONTACT INFO PAGE Grapevine.........grapevinegiftsandgallery.com 126 Gulf States Real Estate Services.... 985-792-4385 81 H2O....................................... 985-951-8166 8 Henderson Park Inn................ 866-398-4432 35 Hestia Luxury in Linens........... 985-893-0490 129 Historic New Orleans Collection... 504-598-7170 135 Holly’s Sweets and Treats........ 985-966-1067 168 Home Bank....................... home24bank.com 31 Honda of Covington............... 985-892-0001 IFC Honey Hive............................ 985-662-6029 168 Hotel Monteleone.................. 800-619-2577 98 Huntington Learning Center... 985-727-0000 133 Integrity Builders Inc............... 985-626-3479 73 Istre Hearing Care.................. 985-845-3509 134 Izabella’s Villa........................ 985-649-5060 3, P-BC Jed Malitz V2 Art Gallery........ 985-773-0458 123 Jim Seitz................................ 985-789-2262 98 Jim Stone Co.......................... 985-882-5907 123 jn design, llc........................... 504-231-6917 168 Jos. A. Bank............................ 985-624-4067 135 K. Gee’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar... 985-626-0530 164 KentJacob Color Salon............ 985-845-8011 152 Kevin M. Plaisance, MD.......... 985-893-3777 25 Key to the Cure...................... saks.com/KTTC 64 La Pavers............................... 504-731-8755 129 Lake After Hours..................... 985-375-9979 77 Lakehouse, The....................... 985-626-3006 165 Lakeside Shopping Center...... 504-835-8000 40 Lakeview Regional Medical Center................. ............................................. 985-867-3800 83, IBC Latter & Blum, Jennifer Rice.... 985-892-1478 161 L’auberge Casino & Hotel.... lbatonrouge.com 21 Laurier................................... 985-875-0823 137 LCI Workers Comp.................. 985-612-1230 89 Louisiana Heart Center........... 985-649-2700 33 Louisiana Heart Hospital................................ ............................ louisianahearhospital.com 13, 15 Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.504-523-6530 91 Louisiana Polo Farms, Inc........ 985-796-9130 P-IFC Lowe’s Jewelers..................... 985-845-6453 60 Lynn Stirling Antiques............. 985-626-7704 4 M. Celeste Lagarde, MD......... 985-898-0589 66 Mandeville Party Co................ 985-674-1605 147 Martin Wine Cellar................martinwine.com 27 Mary Bird Perkins...............marybird.org/stph 60 Mélange by KP....................... 985-807-7652 141 Mix, The................................. 985-727-7649 P-13 Money Hill Golf and Country Club................. ............................................. 985-871-6963 159 Monster Mash........................ 985-898-4435 144 Moody & Johnson.................. 985-542-1351 94 MoreSmiles-Dr. Jim Moreau ... 985-809-7645 157 Moseley’s Fine Jewelers.......... 985-626-5098 85 Nancy Robbins......................... 985-727-4565 123 New Orleans Ballet Association... 504-522-0996 88 New Orleans Opera Association... 504-529-3000 88 Niche Modern Home.............. 985-624-4045 84 NOLA Lending Group, LLC...... 985-951-8479 70 Nonna Randazzo’s Bakery...... 985-893-1488 166 North American Insurance Agency.................. ............................................. 985-871-5480 79 NORTH Institute, The.............. 985-871-4114 P-19 North Oaks Health System........northoaks.org 78 North Shore Square Mall........ 985-646-0664 17 Northshore Dermatology ....... 985-792-5959 93 N’Tini’s................................... 985-626-5566 P-17

ADVERTISER...........................CONTACT INFO PAGE Ochsner Medical Center - Northshore............ .................................................. ochsner.org 150 Olivier Couture, A Bridal Boutique.. 985-674-6994 142 Outdoor Living Center............ 985-893-8008 93 Paisley................................... 985-727-7880 138 Pan American Power............... 985-893-1271 66 Pardos................................... 985-893-3603 20 Paretti Jaguar... 866-751-0237, 504-456-7558 73 Perino’s Garden Center........... 504-834-7888 37 Pine Grove Lighting & Electrical Supply.......... ............................................. 985-893-4003 161 Pinkberry.................................pinkberry.com 81 Pinnacle Mortgage Group, LLC... 985-727-0755 P-21 Play and Learn Northshore Academy.............. ............................................. 985-674-7744 168 Posh Boutique........................ 985-898-2639 141 Precision Sewing Machines..... 985-249-6156 130 Preserve at RockCreek... preserveatrockcreek.com 53 Private Beach......................... 985-237-6040 138 Pure Barre.............................. 985-674-7577 95 Purple Armadillo Again.... purplearmadillo.net 153 Rab, Dr. Tahseen..................... 985-340-7868 96 Rehab Dynamics .................... 985-871-7878 21 Resource Bank...............bankonresource.com 134 Rodan & Fields Dermatologists... 985-966-6475 168 Ruffino Custom Closets.......... 985-809-7623 50 Rug Chic................................ 985-674-1070 29 Saia’s..................................... 985-626-9724 163 Saint Germain........................ 504-522-1720 130 St. Joseph Abbey......... saintjosephabbey.com 50 St. Paul’s School..................... 985-892-3200 63 St. Stanislaus College............. 228-467-9057 74 St. Tammany Parish Hospital... 985-898-4000 57 Saks Fifth Ave......................... 504-524-2200 5 Sala Thai................................ 985-249-6990 163 Save Our Lake....................... saveourlake.org 63 Scott Sandage Homes............. 985-542-2724 14 Shoefflé.....................................shoeffle.com 137 Shofstahl Law Firm................. 985-674-1801 168 Silver Plum, The and 1, 2, Buckle My Shoe...... ............................................. 985-674-4343 126 Simplee Gourmet................... 985-892-8370 19 Simply Southern..................... 985-871-1466 130 Slidell Memorial Hospital........ 985-643-2200 125 Southern Brain & Spine......504-454-0141 x1 58 Southern Bridal...................... 985-727-2993 147 Southern Pain Center............. 985-727-7275 95 Southern Rep. Theatre............ 800-628-3711 91 Southland Plumbing Supply, Inc..... 985-893-8883 149 State Farm Insurance, CJ Ladner... 985-892-5030 123 Stone Source.......................... 985-892-0695 95 Studio MV.............................. 985-867-5601 80 Summers Neurosurgery, LLC... 985-419-7767 P-8 Symmetry Jewelers................. 504-861-9925 126 Terebella................................ 985-871-7171 85 Tiger Tuff................................ 985-445-5707 158 Tim Prator Services................. 985-839-5931 168 Tran, Dr. David........................ 985-893-1070 12 Truitt Law Firm, The................ 985-327-5266 P-15 Villa Vici......................................villavici.com 55 Villa, The................................ 985-626-9797 141 Village Executive Office Suites... 985-727-6700 129 Welcome Home and garden... 985-893-3933 96 Witt, Dr. Victoria..................... 985-643-5145 65 Zea Rotisserie & Grill........ZeaRestaurant.com 167 September-October 2012 169

Chef Duke Locicero of Cafe Giovanni

HONORS CAN’T GET MUCH HIGHER than being named “Executive Chef of the Who Dat Nation” by super-Saint Bobby Hebert; but Chef Duke Locicero, longtime Mandeville resident and owner of Cafe Giovanni in the French Quarter, has won numerous awards for his cuisine and community involvement. Chef Duke is host of the city’s longest-running restaurant music program, where professional opera singers roam about the room three nights a week, crooning everything from classic opera to show tunes. It’s been 21 years since Chef Duke opened Cafe Giovanni in a historic building on Decatur Street. The opera singers perform throughout the spacious main dining room, which seats 100 people and opens onto the Patio Room, a classic French Quarter courtyard. Complete with a galleried garçonnière that was once part of one of the oldest homes in the city, it is now enclosed so diners can soak up the courtyard atmosphere without getting soaked. Chef Duke is proud of the fact that he’s helped transform this once-seedy block of Decatur, which, for many years, was home to rooming houses and bars catering to merchant seamen, into respectable restaurants and condominiums. Adjacent to the dining room is Cafe Giovanni’s Bella Bacci Lounge. Realizing the French Quarter, whether cleaned up or not, is not for everyone, Chef Duke is bringing his restaurant’s experience to the northshore— or any shore for that matter—with his latest venture, Cafe Giovanni on the Go. “If you don’t want to come to the French Quarter, we’ll bring the whole dining experience to you. We’ll bring the singers, the food— everything,” he says. “We cater the whole atmosphere to you!” Cafe Giovanni offers what Chef Duke calls New World Italian cuisine. “It’s Italian food with our own twist on it. It’s all fresh local ingredients, with a lot of fresh Louisiana seafood, of course,” he says. Chef Duke, whose first restaurant job came at age 12 at the House of Lee, graduated from the Culinary Institute of America. His wife, Kelly, is a nurse and together they started Chef Duke’s Foundation for Kids 20 years ago. “We raise money and bring toys to sick kids at Christmas; we bring Santa to Children’s Hospital,” says Chef Duke. After being chef and front man for the busy restaurant for so many years, Chef Duke is looking forward to some help soon. “My two kids,” he says. “One is going to be graduating from Loyola in business, and she’ll be coming into the catering side. My son, who’s at Mandeville High, will be going to culinary school next year. We’re keeping it in the family!”

170

Inside Northside

by Stephen Faure

photo: FIELDING PHOTOGRAPHY

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