The Sanctuary Living

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For Subscription Email ReneeINOLA@gmail.com SEPTEMBER

Bodin Family

For more information see Page 10

Cover by Katie Ulmer Photography

The Sanctuary Living is published bi-monthly (March, May, July, August, October, December) by JBL Publishing, LLC, PO Box 7603, Metairie, LA 70010-7603 as a means of communication and information for greater New Orleans, Louisiana. Bulk Postage paid - New Orleans, LA. Copyright ©2023 by JBL Publishing, LLC. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written consent of publisher. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and artwork. Inside New Orleans Magazine is created using the Adobe Creative Suite on Apple Macintosh computers.

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October 12th

November 8th

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is everything a school should be!”

Kim Morrison

Expires October 31, 2023

BODIN FAMILY

By Greta Honsberger

In 2017, Jennifer and Ryan Bodin, seeking respite from the bustling streets of New Orleans, moved to embrace Mandeville’s idyllic suburb and The Sanctuary’s tranquility on Orchid Lane. Choosing The Sanctuary was easy because, as Jennifer recalls, “We were attracted to how quaint and safe the neighborhood was.” The Bodins loved their Orchid Lane home, but as their family grew to five, thoughts of needing more space couldn’t be ignored. Three years later, Ryan discovered a larger property on the market right around the corner. Oleander Court was an expansive residence featuring distinct areas and a sizable upstairs space tailored to their three children’s needs. It was the perfect match for this family of five that now included Jennifer, Ryan and Owen, Gray, and Reese. The Bodins’ residence on Oleander Court would provide a space where they could savor the moments of watching their three children mature, embark on their high school journey, and more. Since moving to Oleander Court in 2020, the Bodins have undertaken minor projects, including constructing a gym with a sauna, applying wallpaper, painting, and enclosing the porch to create a screened area. They also employed Forshag Construction for minor modifications, like adding a

hood to their outdoor grill. These little improvements have been scattered throughout the process. Very soon, however, Jennifer and Ryan are taking on a more in-depth project as their backyard will undergo an extensive renovation. WillowGrove Landscape will oversee a comprehensive renovation to the Bodin’s backyard space, while Oasis Pool and Spa has been entrusted with installing their pool. Once the transformation is complete, their backyard will undoubtedly be a lush paradise where family memories will be created.

In curating their home’s interior, Jennifer contributed significantly to the overall design cohesion by leveraging her graphic design and art background. She also enlisted Erin from Eros expertise for some of their furniture and décor selections. Among Erin’s selections, Jennifer’s most cherished piece is an antique mirror adorned with angels, elegantly positioned above the fireplace in her bedroom. Further enriching the bedroom space are exquisite Oushak rugs and a meticulously sourced glass acrylic coffee table that adds a touch of modernity to the room.

Jennifer Pacione from Shading Places was instrumental in crafting custom drapes, pillows, and wallpapers, bringing

an artistic depth to the Bodin family’s interiors. The pink grasscloth wallpaper adorning her closet and bathroom is a standout favorite for Jennifer. The color and texture give these spaces a soft, captivating ambiance.

A particularly cherished aspect of the decor in the Bodin home is a collaborative piece of art by Abigail Reller. This unique creation was borne out of the whole family’s creative teamwork. To lend an inviting botanical touch, towering Birds of Paradise in sizable planters are placed within the foyer, creating a vibrant and welcoming entrance. Every element in the Bodin home is thoughtfully and harmoniously integrated, making it unique.

Jennifer’s favorite space is her bedroom suite because of the calm, cozy, and relaxing escape it offers when she needs a little downtime. This apportioned space has a bed and sitting area on one side, but separated by a fireplace is a lounge area, complete with amenities. The lounge area underscores the notion of a calm and relaxing escape. Jennifer also loves the wine room, which offers a warm and comfortable space with grey velvet chairs and gold accents flanked on one side by a large window and, on the other side, a built-in wooden diamond shaped wine rack that fills

the wall. The Bodins also appreciate their workout room. “It is more of a wellness room,” explains Jennifer about this space. This relaxing room boasts a sauna, massage chair, and crystal sound bowls for meditation. Incidentally, their garage has a cold plunge to relieve muscle aches, workout soreness, immunity benefits, and mental clarity. Ryan swears by his cold plunge immersions.

When the Bodins gather, says Jennifer, “We mostly hang out in the den/kitchen area. My kids will bring their scooters into the house and race around the kitchen island. We play board games, do art projects/homework, eat together and watch movies. It’s really an all-purpose community space where everyone comes together.” The open den/kitchen space is perfect for laughter and memories.

As much as this family enjoys their togetherness, still, everyone loves having their own space. Given their lives’ bustling and often chaotic nature, Jennifer’s objective as a mom is to fashion their home into a place of grounding, tranquility, and relaxation. “ I think everyone appreciates how calm our house feels after a long day,” observes Jennifer.

Speaking of their busy and sometimes chaotic lives, the Bodin family comprises three vibrant and dynamic children: Owen is seven years old, Gray is five, and Reese is four. Owen’s uniqueness shines through as he was born on leap day and possesses the gift of being left-handed. His passions are science, art, constructing intricate structures with Legos, and swim team, and he loves beach adventures. Conversely, Gray emerges as the family’s budding athlete, embracing her fourth year of dance and securing her spot in the Elite Dance Studio’s mini-company team. While her love for the swim team parallels her athleticism, she is also the essence of a true girly girl, having a love for fashion, hairstyling, makeup, nails, and the allure of dressing up. Reese, the baby, is a wild spirit and adds playful and mischievous energy to the household. With an affinity for dance classes and gymnastics, her ultimate joy is indulging in snacks while cuddled up and engrossed in a TV show. Owen, Gray, and Reese attend Northlake Christian School.

Ryan and Jennifer are enthusiastic about health and wellness and are an active couple who love the beach and traveling with their family. Their individual interests are a k

bit different. Ryan seeks adventure, including a love of spearfishing. One of the oldest fishing techniques in the world, today, it can be enjoyed while scuba diving, which Ryan prefers. It is a unique experience that allows him to combine several recreational aspects simultaneously. As a successful and busy real estate investor, there is little doubt that Ryan embraces the tranquility of the underwater experience as a way to relax and reset from real life.

Jennifer puts her family first. Former owner of three Pure Barre locations, she sold them five years ago to focus on raising Owen, Gray, and Reese. She likes being available to her children and volunteers at their school. She also stays busy planning and hosting social functions and decorating. Jennifer also has an affinity for English bulldogs. Sadie, their family dog, is a one-and-a-half-year-old English bulldog and Jennifer’s fourth English bulldog baby.

As a family, the Bodins enjoy gathering “cone shells,” an endeavor that spans seven years and is aimed at filling an expansive jar—a goal that remains quite distant. Their fondness for all things outdoors and the joy of beach days align with relaxing evenings featuring popcorn, family, and a good movie.

Travel is essential for this busy family. They have a house in Navarre Beach, Florida, which they often frequent due to its close proximity to Mandeville. They love taking the kids skiing in Colorado and Utah. Another family favorite is a trip to Disney. A visit to Disney is a bonus because Jennifer’s brother lives near Orlando, giving the Bodin kids Disney fun time with their cousins.

For local dining, Carretta’s and Fat Boys Pizza are firm favorite amongst the Bodin kids, and the added convenience of getting to these restaurants by golf cart is a delightful bonus. Regarding treasured date nights, Ryan and Jennifer love Desi Vega Steakhouse in Covington. In addition, 527, Pat’s Rest A While, and Rusty Pelican in Mandeville are on their favorite go-to dining spots list.

Shopping locally, Gray and Reese love Blossom Girl, and Owen is a fan of Learning Express. Jennifer appreciates local boutiques, including Au Darling, Paisley, Bora Bora, and Stella Dallas. She also enjoys her friend’s local online boutique, Phoenix Shop. Ryan likes Denim Bar and any local health/wellness boutiques.

Jennifer, Ryan, Owen, Gray, and Reese appreciate all The Sanctuary offers. The three Bodin children like golf cart rides and making new friends their age. They also enjoy nature hikes and love seeing turtles and other wildlife. As for Jennifer and Ryan, they appreciate living on a tranquil street tucked away in a cul-de-sac. It is nice that the kids can freely explore their surroundings by riding bikes, go-karts, and scooters, all within the safety of their front yard.

This enriching blend of family dynamics and the nurturing environment of their neighborhood makes The Sanctuary the perfect home for the Bodin family.

Reba Weymouth, FNP-C

Candice Wild, FNP-C

Michele Accardo, FNP-C

Shannon Faulkner, LME

Cameron Sparacio, LME

Madison Skinner, Director of Operations

Photo Credits to Katie Ulmer Photography

James Samaritan non profit

Foster parents since 2003, John and Julie Wondergem have an unwavering dedication to children in foster care. Over the past several years, their boundless compassion and love for foster children motivated them to welcome five foster children as their own through adoption. Their commitment to foster care, however, goes beyond adoption. Since 2015, the couple has been involved with James Samaritan, an organization supporting foster care children. Julie, a former special education teacher and mother of seven, stepped into the role of executive director in July. Simultaneously, her husband, John, who teaches at Madisonville Junior High, assumed the volunteer role of media and marketing director, all while expertly managing the demands of fatherhood.

While James Samaritan assists foster children and their families through various avenues, its core focus is on four major programs: Resources, Mentoring, Community Outreach, and Collaboration. These cornerstone initiatives collectively offer many resources and services that support every facet of the foster care system.

Through community outreach efforts, foster families can look to James Samaritan for assistance with needed and basic resources. When school returns after the summer, school supplies and services such as sports and school physicals, and haircuts are provided. In the winter, wellness physicals, coats, hats, and gloves are provided, and James Samaritan gives Christmas gifts to the children in the mentoring program and their families.

Working with foster care caseworkers, James Samaritan also provides resources for young adults in the extended foster program. This important program is for those young adults transitioning out of foster family homes and into independent living. This includes providing basic items needed to set up their own home.

The cornerstone of James Samaritan’s efforts lies within its mentoring program, which is the most vital aspect of the organization. John, with emphasis, says it best. “Mentor relationships are key.” With this in mind, James Samaritan’s objective centers on ensuring mentors are available for every foster child, starting as early as age six.

The basis of the mentor program is to give foster children one adult in their life that they know will love and support them. Growing up from age six into young adulthood with the same mentor makes all the difference for these children. Statistically, with the guidance and love of a mentor, young adults in foster care are less likely to drop out of high school and become involved in illegal activities. One caring and supportive adult can change a child’s life trajectory.

The mentorship program begins with Royal Family Kids Camp and Club for ages six to twelve, which is sponsored directly by funding from James Samaritan. This week-long camp is where mentors, mentees, and counselors come together for a week of simple fun, and after the week, they continue to meet regularly to build on their connection. The next mentorship phase is for ages twelve to fifteen; it is called Teen Reach Adventure Camp and TRAC Life. This phase continues to build on the mentor support that began with Royal Family Kids. Later on, ages fifteen to twenty-one participate in Life Network. Life Network solidifies the bond between mentor and mentee, which is crucial as young adults transition into independent life. Mentors are there to offer support and advice as these young people face adulthood.

Finally, James Samaritan collaborates with other non-profits serving foster care children. This collaboration includes donating space at their Covington facility for staff meetings, therapy sessions, training events, and other uses for the non-profits that are invested in foster families. This cohesion is not only a convenience for the foster families and caseworkers but also builds a foundation of support that allows the children to witness a support team they know they can count on.

James Samaritan is tailored to support foster families and is pivotal in fulfilling their mission. The many resources James Samaritan provides for local foster families are greatly needed and deeply appreciated by those who benefit from them. Through dedication and comprehensive support, James Samaritan serves as a beacon of hope enriching the lives of foster children and families and forging a path towards brighter futures.

AMG Contractors

Kenneth Adams of AMG Contractors is no stranger to the building industry. His experience and education in the industry were gleaned from twenty years in his family’s construction business. In those twenty years, he learned the ins and outs of the business from doing everything. “I did all the work that no one else wanted to do: the grunt work. I even dug ditches,” recalls Kenneth. Even when assigned a mundane task, he consistently gave his utmost effort, reflecting his fundamental work ethic and character. When Kenneth started AMG Contractors, he naturally built the foundation of his construction company on these essential principles, as well as the enduring advice from his father: “Take pride in everything you do.”

Because of the housing market collapse and the subsequent economic struggles that the U.S. faced, Kenneth left his parents’ business in 2008. He opted to work on largescale commercial buildings to stay in the construction business and did this type of construction for a few years.

In 2015, Kenneth decided to return to the residential building business and started AMG Contractors.

Aptly named after his three daughters, Alexis, Mia, and Gabrielle, Kenneth enjoys those days on the job when he sees projects come to fruition. Watching the progress is rewarding, but he finds the truest satisfaction in the final outcome.

An integral part of constructing a home is budget allocation. This can be tricky because it involves determining which features merit additional expenses and where reductions can be made in the budget. Kenneth enjoys advising his clients on this aspect of the home-building process. Because of his vast experience in the business, he can share his insight and knowledge to ensure that his clients get the important features they want and stay within their budget.

AMG Contractors has a simple objective when building residential homes: build the best homes with

the best materials. Kenneth and his crew use quality, energy-efficient materials that are second to none. AMG distinguishes itself from other builders by combining high-quality materials with meticulous attention to detail, elevating interior and exterior craftsmanship standards, and placing them in a superior category within the industry. For instance, while many residential contractors select conventional ceilings due to their straightforward installation process and cost-effectiveness, AMG stands out by making coffered ceilings a standard feature. This is a deliberate inclusion in Kenneth’s budgeting strategy, showcasing how AMG Contractors differentiates itself from other contractors in its commitment to elevated design and attention to detail.

Kenneth and AMG Contractors achievement in the residential construction industry stem from his dedication to excellence, enhanced by his father’s sage advice to “Take pride in everything you do.” These principles, coupled with his focus on faith and family, allow for Kenneth’s success and serve as the cornerstone of AMG Construction’s approach to creating exceptional homes.

WHY CAN’T WE BE FIRST IN EDUCATION?

EDUCATION is key to our future. As parents we want the best for our children. We want them to succeed and find a career. Our children are our legacy and we as parents want better for them than we had. Our children should be reading at their grade level, they should be in school, they should be prepared for the future, whether that is college or the trades. Your tax money should follow your student! You should have the tools to best choose the method of education that is best for your child. Scott has been married to a teacher for 28 years. Scott himself taught business classes at the university level. Together they understand education and support teachers

Amanda Colceriu-Dandu

HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT REAL ESTATE AGENT

Buying or selling a property can be a complex and emotional process. Choosing the right real estate professional to sell your home is one of your most important decisions and can be the difference between your home sitting on the market for months or selling quickly.

Your home is a very personal, important, and valuable asset, and it can be an emotional and complicated endeavor to sell it. Numerous questions and concerns will need to be addressed, and the advice and consultation that you receive can make a tremendous difference in the results.

There are a multitude of nuances and subtleties that make the difference between failure and success in selling your property. These essential elements include marketing and advertising, remodeling or upgrading, photography, internet exposure, staging, design, floor-plan measurements, videography, timing and presentation, inspections, pre-market exposure, agent outreach and relationships, open houses, and pricing. Each can be vital in successfully selling a home. For these reasons, when choosing a real estate

professional, it is important to select one that prioritizes communication and transparency and works closely with each client to ensure they are informed in all aspects of the process. A great agent will empower their client and give them confidence through every transaction stage. Additionally, look for an agent who stays up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the industry and utilizes cutting-edge marketing strategies to showcase your property to the widest audience possible.

Ultimately, choose a real estate expert with a profound comprehension of the regional property market. This expert should be well-versed in property valuations, adept at handling offer negotiations, and capable of linking clients with reliable vendors and service providers. This will aid clients in making well-informed choices that match their requirements and preferences.

In the complex real estate landscape, selecting the right professional can be the pivotal factor that transforms property transactions into successful endeavors for all parties.

The Sanctuary Living Collection

Jason Thompson with Grass Inc landscaping TIPS BY SANCTUARY RESIDENT

“Nurturing Your Landscape: Fall Watering Essentials for Year-Round Vitality”

The summer of 2023 secured its place among the top 10 hottest summers on record, so if your lawn survived that, don’t blow it now! As we head into fall, there are still plenty of hot and dry days ahead that your landscape will need to be watered to have that lush look you maintained during the hot summer. Here are a few tips on managing watering and maintaining your landscape until at least this year’s first freeze.

• In terms of grass, water it longer. Grass takes a lot of water to keep it in pristine condition, so if you have a timed sprinkler system, modify the timer to water just a little longer. Technically, your lawn needs 30 minutes to 1 hour of watering daily during hot and dry periods.

• Although your plants don’t require as much water as your lawn, they need a good soaking in those hot, dry spells. Give them an extra 10-15 minutes of water, but only every other day because plant beds should dry out before the next watering. This promotes the plant roots to grow faster and deeper as they are looking for water, thus making a stronger plant.

~ When watering your gardens, do so very early in the day. Pay attention that you are also watering the leaves and blooms, but only if it is not overcast. You don’t want the water to sit on the leaf too long; otherwise, the petals and blooms might get diseased.

~ If your sprinkler heads are low to the ground and are not getting water on the whole plant, consider raising them until the entire plant benefits from the shower.

• The best time to water your lawn and gardens is early morning, before dawn, or in the evening close to sun

down. Because the sun is low and the temperatures are cooler at these times, the water will not immediately evaporate in the day’s heat.

• If you don’t have an irrigation system, buying a regular sprinkler and a timer will do the trick. Both of these are easily found at the local hardware store.

You can keep that beautiful landscape that you babied all those hot and dry summer days as long as possible by not discounting that our fall days are also hot and dry and your green, lush landscape still needs water!

What can we do in Louisiana about rising Homeowners Insurance costs? While we cannot control the risk of hurricanes, we can reduce the severity of damage by strengthening Louisiana homes. Programs by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS), like the Fortified Home Program, can strengthen our roofs, structures, windows, and doors. Several states around us have implemented programs to assist homeowners in strengthening their homes and increasing their residents’ safety during storms. These programs follow the Fortified Home Program — Roof, Silver, or Gold certification and allow for grants and loans paid directly to certified contractors. By implementing these programs and strengthening our building codes, we can reduce the pain and damage our citizens experience following storms. Scott has 18 years of property & casualty experience and will help move Louisiana Forward!

VOTE DISTRICT #89

Notes

SAVE THE DATE

Sunday, October 29th-FALL FEST

TBD WINE TASTING

SANCTUARY PICKLEBALL

Every Thursday Evening

Where: Sanctuary Tennis Court #3 Time: 6:00 to 8:00 PM

For more info contact: Julie Johnson at julie@jajcommunications.net

Please make sure to REGISTER YOUR GOLF CARTS with the DMV. The Sanctuary residents must follow the Mandeville city laws to operate a golf cart.

2022 HOA OFFICERS

President - Jack Jensen

Vice-President - Satya Reddy

Treasurer - Michael Gagliardi

Secretary - Donna Canalizo

Board Members - Jeff Gernon, Marissa Giglio and Shelby LaSalle

The Board sends emails out to the Association Members monthly. If you are not receiving emails, please contact: mailadmin@SanctuaryHOA.org

Website - SanctuaryHoa.org

entertaining tips by Sanctuary resident

Angelina Valuri

With the dog days of summer and scorching hot temperatures (hopefully) behind us, SNACX Entertaining Tips are back - just in time for all of us to relax with close family and friends.

When the weather gets cooler, the kids are back in school, the days get shorter, and there is a new pumpkin spice flavored item available around every corner, our mood starts to change! Sprucing up our homes with seasonal décor and autumn scents is just what we seem to crave.

But even though there seems to be so much to do during this time of year, fall entertaining is nothing you should get stressed about. In fact, SNACX has put together just a few simple and easy-to-follow tips to kick off the season right.

Whether your style is fun and festive, easy and elegant, or lavish and luxurious – following these suggestions will have you hosting your next gathering flawlessly.

• MAKE THE EVENT THEMED – A good theme can easily become the backdrop of your event. Making the evening themed can add excitement and encourage everyone to step outside their comfort zone and get a little creative. All food, drinks, and activities should be incorporated into whatever theme you choose – i.e. Bonfire Bash, Oktoberfest, Tailgate Cook-off, Pumpkin Patch, Outdoor Movie Night, and Wine & Dine are some of our favorites.

• CREATE A SIGNATURE COCKTAIL – There’s no bad season for a cocktail! It’s simple to craft a seasonal sip for every taste and budget –and you certainly don’t have to be a world class bartender to create a fun and unique drink for your guests that showcases your personality. There’s just something about a signature autumnal drink that adds to the specialness of your event. (I personally also love to come up with a clever name to go along with it!). Whether it is a Pumpkin White Russian, a Hot Toddy, a Fireside, or a Cranberry Collins – make sure you never run short on libations to keep everyone relaxed and in a good mood.

• CELEBRATE FALL FLAVORS - The flavors of fall can best be highlighted with a harvest-style feast. We all eat with our eyes first, and a colorful spread can delight all of the senses, not just our tastebuds. Creamy squash, fresh tomato bisque, meats smoked or roasted to perfection, earthy mushroom macaroni and cheese, and crisp fruit heavy salads are just a few examples of dishes that come to mind and will keep everyone well fed.

• ASK FOR HELP – Whether it is your décor, your menu, the guest list, or the aftermath of clean-up, I’ve found that one of the best parts about the season is friendship and fellowship. Although you may take pride in being the host with the most, none of us can do it all by ourselves. Allowing others to assist with event tasks can not only take the pressure off of your event, but it can allow you to loosen up a bit and live in the moment. Entertaining is meant to be enjoyed – and you’ll be surprised how many helping hands you can easily find if you just ask.

The Best Charcuterie Boards & Grazing Tables

Business Spotlight

Mullin started with an old Jeep and a borrowed trailer in 2007. With a focus on high touch, white-glove service, and exceptional quality, Mullin was quickly propelled to the top of the residential landscape market in the greater New Orleans area. Over the last several years, Mullin expanded its presence on the Northshore by delivering the best value design and installation services.

Mullin’s two-hundred hand-picked landscape professionals ensure that whatever the job may be, their clients will receive the most creative, innovative designs, top-quality construction, and on-staff professionals dedicated to quality. Promising the best in landscape architects, horticulturists, chemical applicators, and turf specialists, Mullin’s commitment to the work quality and performance of its professionals is second to none.

Passionate about their work, Mullin’s landscape architects enjoy advising and giving information to anyone interested in improving their landscape. As such, the folks at Mullin encourage their clients to take their time when planning their spaces. Their design teams will happily put in extra time to ensure their clients are completely satisfied with their projects.

Mullin is presently engaged in restoring the State Capitol Formal Garden. At the same time, they have also recently completed projects such as the Carrollton Courthouse, the Amazon Forest at the Audubon Aquarium under the Audubon Institute, and the Birdhouse at the Audubon Zoo.

In 2023, Mullin achieved notable recognitions and awards, including being named among Lawn & Landscape’s Best Places to Work, securing the title of Best Landscape Company Top Winner in City Business Readers Rankings for the 7th consecutive year (2017-2023), attaining the position of Top 150 Largest Landscape Company in the US at #130 for the third year in a row, and earning accolades in the 2023 NALP Awards of Excellence — a GOLD Award for the Amazon Rainforest at Audubon Aquarium, a SILVER Award for Hubbs residential property, a SILVER Award for the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at NOMA, and a BRONZE Award for the Carrollton Courthouse.

Mullin is all about top-quality service. They’re dedicated to making outdoor spaces beautiful and functional, which they’ve proven with their impressive achievements. Their high-touch white glove service sets a high standard in the industry. With their commitment to excellence, the Greater New Orleans area can expect more amazing landscapes from Mullin in the future.

We need safe streets and neighborhoods! Violent criminals should not be free to repeat crimes. Funding our police, probation, and parole officers will allow our law enforcement to have adequate staffing, the best training, and create a partnership with the community that we all can be proud of! Scott has “Funded the Police” in a “Defund the Police” environment and staffed police policies, such as Use of Force, De-Escalation, Code of Conduct, and many others. He has the experience as a former Reserve Deputy and later as a Police Commissioner to work with law enforcement and our community to make our streets and neighborhoods safer.

SAFER STREETS & NEIGHBORHOODS FOR LOUISIANA The Sanctuary Subdivision

JUST FOR TEENS

Trace Dorris

Trace Dorris is a young man whose passion for soccer knows no bounds. This summer was significant for the kid whose favorite soccer move is the side tackle. He and fellow Lakers not only won the USYS Southern Regional Champions title and advanced to the USYS National Championship in Orlando but traveled to Spain to play in the Donosti Cup.

Although he started playing soccer at age four, at eight, he began to realize that soccer was a game that he enjoyed and was good at. Trace finds inspiration from Argentina’s great Lionel Messi because “He has made everything look possible.” With these possibilities in mind, Trace has succeeded on the soccer field.

Being outdoors is exactly where this young man wants to be. Whether fishing at the pond near his family’s condo or participating in PE at school, he thrives being outside. And Trace loves to play soccer, which is the future he sees for himself. With a genuine appreciation for the game and the life lessons he has gained, he reflects on some things he has learned, including patience, perseverance, and how to be a good teammate. Without a doubt, these lessons were paramount this summer when things got very exciting in Trace’s soccer world.

Dedication, hard work, and unwavering enthusiasm were pivotal as Trace and his team beat Cajun Rush in their final game after tying in double overtime. “In the end,” explained Trace, “we won on the second round (6th) penalty kick.” The victory from this momentous kick led to Regional playoffs, where Trace and his team went up against teams from Alabama, Florida, North Carolina,

of the boys. Explains Trace, “It showed me and my team that we had a lot left to learn.” Without question, winning the USYS Southern Regional Championship and going on to play in the USYS National Championship in Orlando was an experience that these U13 teammates will remember forever.

Another incredible experience that Trace was a part of this summer was playing soccer in Spain. Mandeville Soccer Club offered the boys from the 2009 and 2010 teams the opportunity to play in an international tournament in San Sebastián, Spain, called the Donosti Cup. The tournament included 865 teams, 15,000 participants, 2,300 coaches, and 2,150 matches. On July 2nd, Trace and ten of his Laker teammates and their families flew to Spain for the opportunity of a lifetime. Over the next seven days, they met players from over 800 clubs from 70 countries.

The eleven MSC teammates played four teams from all over Europe who were older than the U13 Lakers. Essentially, Trace and his team went up against teams with 14-15-year-old boys. They lost two games by one point and tied the other two, which was incredible considering they were playing up and had little to no practice time since they had just completed their win at Southern Regionals. Regardless, the MSC U13 Lakers gave the European teams they played a good fight. Their European competitors, thinking they would score numerous goals against a team from the US, were proven wrong by Trace and his team. Beyond the goals, wins, and losses, this group of young passionate soccer enthusiasts had a remarkable experience they will never forget.

Dallas, and Florida in the finals. Not being the first team to score and finding themselves down in every game, Trace and his team dug deep, didn’t give up, and walked away with the win for the USYS Southern Regional Championship.

Trace’s soccer journey would continue, and after claiming the victory at Regionals, this group of thirteen-year-old soccer champions and their coaches headed to Orlando to compete in the Nationals, where they played at the ESPN Worldwide Sports Complex. Although they did not win the USYS National Championship, being a part of it was an unforgettable learning experience for all

For Trace, playing in the Donosti Cup only underscored his passion for the game and his goal to one day play for Spain. With a complete devotion to the sport that permeates his life, and an unyielding determination to overcome every challenge, Trace Dorris embodies what it means to truly live and breath soccer.

Luau the sanctuary

Luau the sanctuary

Sanctuary Residents enjoyed the The Sanctuary neighborhood Luau by hanging out poolside and spending time with neighbors.

Pets CASTRINOS FAMILY

Introducing five-year-old Siberian Husky Hope and her brother Beau, a ten-week-old Border Collie who, without a doubt complete the Castrinos family!

How did the Castrinos’ love affair with these two begin? To answer that, it is important to rewind a bit. The Castrinos became interested in Siberian Huskies after a family vacation where they had the opportunity to dog sled and fell in absolute love with the breed. Not long after, Hope joined their family. After a few years, they felt that Hope needed a companion. They knew Border Collies were loving, smart, and great family dogs because they had a special one before. The Castrinos family excitedly welcomed a new member into their home, a lively Border Collie puppy they affectionately named Beau. Picking Beau was not by accident because he came from the same bloodline as their beloved Border Collie that had passed.

While both Castrinos pups are described as playful, loving, and sweet, they each have their own unique personalities. Hope likes to take her naps with her head up and tongue out, totally embracing her safe, comfortable home. Still quite the baby, Beau shows his comfort in the Castrinos home with his hijinks! He likes to watch his family fill the water bowl, then sneaks up, flips it, and runs away, bowl in tow. A puppy, to be sure, but also a rascal!

Their physical features are even more different than their respective personalities. Hope is a real beauty. With her striking contrast of black and white coloring and blue eyes, she embodies grace. Brother Beau is quite handsome himself, sporting a tan and white coat and hazel eyes. Though very different, both are perfectly adorable. Watch for these two siblings trotting around the neighborhood with their people when the weather gets cooler because Hope and Beau are quite the duo.

EXCEPTIONAL FULL-SERVICE MEDICAL CARE FOR YOUR EXCEPTIONAL PETS. WE ARE NOT JUST AHEAD OF THE CURVE - WE ARE DEFINING IT.

G. is a Sanctuary Resident and Strives to make Pet Care Luxurious for You and Your Pet

VetNaturally’s Mobile Pet Van

VetNaturally has always been dedicated to the highest level of healthcare for pets and their parents. VetNaturally is introducing a mobile van for your pet’s transport.

To have your pet chauffeured to and from their veterinarian appointment, call the VetNaturally office with 24-hour notice, visit our website at vetnaturally. com, or text our Canine Concierge line 985-718-9991. Your Sanctuary pets can be picked up, dropped off, or have a round trip to their appointment.

ASHLEY C. GEOGHEGAN DVM, CVA, CVFT, CVCH, CCRT, CCRV

Dr.

Dr. G. with VetNaturally pet TIPS BY sanctuary RESIDENT

What is an underwater treadmill, and how can it help my dog?

Many dogs don’t walk outside very long in this Louisiana summer heat. This can lead to loss of muscle mass, stiffness, decreased strength, and endurance.

• Underwater treadmills can increase muscle relaxation, improve joint range of motion, build muscle strength, increase endurance, and decrease pain. It’s also great to help geriatric patients with proprioception (the ability to place and position a body part)

• If you have an overweight or geriatric dog, they often feel difficulty walking on land. When placed in the underwater treadmill, your pet’s walking experience is much more pleasant. The buoyancy of the water reduces the stress placed on the joints and allows for increased functional use of the limb without pain or discomfort

• You can use the underwater treadmill for simple exercise or as part of a controlled canine rehabilitation program.

Incorporating underwater treadmills for your dog can greatly enhance their physical rehabilitation and overall fitness, offering a low-impact and effective solution for maintaining their health and well-being. And the best part….dogs have so much fun in the water.

Building foundations that last