iver parishe R S MAGAZINE
Summer 2018 Edition STAGE PRESENCE: Darryl Clement directs another classic
WHEELS ON THE BUS: Dedicated driver rolls for 30 years
Inside look at Louisiana’s best running back
A Special Publication of
L’OBSERVATEUR
www.lobservateur.com RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
B U I L D I N G
YO U R
Home
D R E A M S TO B ECO M E
T O R A N E S D
Building your new home is a family affair, for yours and for ours. A PLUS Construction, LLC believes that quality construction, experience, and attention to detail is what makes your dream home a reality. Our focus always has been and always will be on quality and not quantity as we strive to exceed your expectations for everything you see and those details you don’t.
Starting your plan to build a custom home doesn’t have to be intimidating. A PLUS Construction will guide you through each important step, creating your dream to become reality.
Let A PLUS Construction create a home that reflects your style while respecting your budget, and you’ll fall in love even before you move in.
Bleakley's Fashion Blinds Inc. “For Windows with Beauty and Style” Family owned & operated custom interior window coverings business for 20 years. Blinds • Shades • Plantation Shutters
Gorman Bros - Appliances and Lighting “When Ordinary Won’t Do” Local, family-owned business since 1976 specializing in new construction and remodeling. Gorman Bros carries a full line of appliances, lighting, countertops and home decorating accessories.
1 0 0 C i rc l e Dr. | ( 5 0 4) 3 5 9.0 1 0 9 | a p l u s Free co Consultations n t r u c t i o n l l c . co m | 2 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
257 Annex Drive Reserve, LA 70084 (985) 817.9544 mariab@rtconline.com
17515 Airline Highway Prairieville, LA 70769 (225) 744.3333 gormanbros.net
L
Loca 198 has the en gla show
Table of Contents Theater icon Darryl Clement sets the stage -- 5 Our favorite bus driver: Barbara Lennix ----- 10 Run Pooka Run: All the way to the NFL ----- 12 Atoms in Motion opens for local families -- 16 New flavors over open flames ---------------- 19 Edie Corso is a horseshoe goddess --------- 22 SCENE IT: River Parishes in the news -------- 26 Dining ------------------------------------------- 29
River Parishes Magazine Publisher/Editor ~ Stephen Hemelt Advertising ~ Christine Browning • Candace Hemelt Contributing Writers ~ Brooke Robichaux • Lori Lyons Graphic Designer ~ Christine Browning • Candace Hemelt
Tuxedo Rental & Sales 299 Belle Terre Blvd Ste. C | 985-652-1195 Mon - Fri: 9:30 to 6:00 | Sat: 9:30 to 3:00
116 Newspaper Dr., LaPlace, LA 70068 • 985-652-9545
Citrus Trees | Fruit Trees Annuals | Vegetables Plant Materials
1501 N. AIRLINE HWY, GRAMERCY MONDAY - SATURDAY 8:30 am to 5:00 pm OPEN on SUNDAY: March, April & May 10 am to 4 pm RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Bienvenue!
Welcome: Smoldering temperatures and daily thunderstorms remind us that summertime is upon us. Everyone is encouraged to use caution and protect themselves from extreme heat by staying hydrated, dressing lightly, planning for rest and establishing cool zones. Residents are also encouraged to take advantage of the parish pools and splash parks to beat the heat. Our culture is unique and our community is quaint, and we have a little something for everyone. Our greatest assets are good fun, good friends, and good food. Our diversity, family heritage, and recreational opportunities are integral parts of the parish. Seafood boils, sporting events, and snowball stands are common place, but only a few examples of the communities’ offerings. St. John the Baptist Parish is located on the east and the west banks of the Mississippi River and is home to some 45,000 residents in Edgard, Garyville, Mount Airy, LaPlace, Lucy, Pleasure Bend, Reserve, and Wallace. Serving as home to several major industries sevicing Petrochemicals and grain, St. John the Baptist Parish continues to thrive as the best place along the river to do business. While the low cost of doing business may be attractive, the skilled workforce, enhanced by community college graduates is an added bonus. Young professionals are also key contributors to the region, precisely because St. John is easily accessible from both Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Not to mention, our picturesque scenic by-ways along River Road, swamp tours, antebellum homes, and Historic Riverlands Soul River invite tourists to take a step back in time. Working with our partners, the Port of South Louisiana, the River Parishes Tourist Commission, the River Region Chamber of Commerce, Greater New Orleans, Inc., and our neighboring parishes, we have an abundance of outdoor activities and a “day trip” experience for all ages. Celebrate the Fourth of July with us at our annual Independence Day Fireworks Show on Tuesday, June 3 at 6 p.m. at St. Peters Church on the Eastbank and St. John the Baptist Catholic Church on the Westbank. Fireworks light up the sky each year around 9 p.m. and provide a beautiful tribute to our heroes in red, white and blue. The 2018 Veterans Luncheon featuring veteran Don Pierson of Louisiana Economic development as the guest speaker will be held earlier in the day at 11 a.m. at REGALA Gym in Reserve. All veterans and their families are invited to attend. In closing, St. John Parish offers its residents, and the thousands of tourists who visit annually, a rural and urban lifestyle unmatched by any other suburban community! Come see us for a great time this summer and let our attractive Parish speak for itself! -Natalie Robottom St. John the Baptist Parish President
4 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
All the world’s a stage
W
hen Darryl Clement walked through the doors of St. Peter Catholic School in Reserve and took on the role of a tree in a production of The Wizard of Oz, his entire world changed. A tenth grader at the time, Clement had never been exposed to live theater. Once he faced the live audience from the stage, a jolt of adrenaline ran through his skin. The rush was unlike anything he’d felt before. Years later, he discovered he gets an even greater rush from directing. Overseeing productions allows him to guide people young and old to their own defining moments while bringing a vision to life. Clement is directing his 20th summer production in the River Parishes. Beauty and the Beast is set to enchant audiences July 13-15 and July 18-21 at St. Peter School, and Clement said the familiar fairy tale has garnered a lot of excitement. Clement’s journey to directing began with a friendly push from Jack Snowdy, a director known as the patron saint of performing arts in the River Region. After his initial stage appearance, Clement spent years assisting Snowdy in summer plays, eventually taking on the roles of stage manager and choreographer. Snowdy sensed Clement wanted more. “I was already doing a lot of the staging for the big numbers and the crowd scenes,” Clement said. “He knew that I wanted to direct, but I was kind of afraid.” After hearing Clement mention he’d enjoy directing Nunsense, Snowdy set it as the fall production with an ultimatum; either Clement would step up as director, or they’d both leave it in the hands of another company. “I don’t know if he ever intended to bring in someone else, but that’s what I believed at the time,” Clement said. “He pushed me to it. He knew I wouldn’t let someone else have it.” After Nunsense, Snowdy officially passed the baton to Clement by asking him to direct the summer show. Darryl Clement is seen, right, on the stage of upcoming River Parish Community Theatre summer production “Beauty and the Beast,” which opens for audiences for numerous performances in July at St. Peter Catholic School in Reserve.
RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Beauty and the Beast is Clement’s 20th production with River Parish Community Theatre, but it isn’t his 20th consecutive show. For a few years in the middle, he lived and pursued higher education in Dallas. Even after moving back to Louisiana, Clement regularly flew back to Texas on weekends to serve as set designer for Theatre Britain, which closed its doors earlier this year. In his River Parish productions, Clement is in charge of bringing an entire vision to life. He admits to “winging it” in his first few productions, characterized by mistakes unnoticed by the audience but obvious in hindsight to his trained eyes. Obtaining a degree in theater taught him the method to live performance. Characters must always have a motive to be three
dimensional, Clement said, and there’s a technique to painting large-scale sets to look scenic from afar. He travels to Broadway for a week each year and packs his schedule with as many shows as possible, taking inspiration from each one. Yet, Clement said it’s important to put a personal spin on productions, even when the audience feels well acquainted with what the story should look like. “In a well-known production like Beauty and the Beast, you try to stay true to the characters and the design without disappointing your audiences while still adding things to make it your own,” Clement said. According to Clement, he includes a running joke in his productions about Vacherie. As for last year’s production of Annie, the set design wrapped around the entire room. In another play, he planted an actor
Gaston (Logan Viverito), Belle (Chrissy Cifuentes) and The Beast (Michael Hoover) are preparing to star in “Beauty and the Beast,” directed by Darryl Clement, right, who is also seen at left receiving set design help from Sean Roussel who is playing Cogsworth.
in the audience and had a big plant jump out and eat them. Clement’s favorite performances have been some of the lesser known plays, including Into the Woods and the Strange Case of Dr. Jekkyl and Mr. Hyde. The former was “the best
60th ANNIVERSARY est. 1958
6 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
play that nobody saw,” Clement joked, while Jekkyl and Hyde drew in larger crowds than expected. Clement enjoys a challenge, especially when it comes to set design. One of his favorite aspects of directing is seeing the play come together at the last minute
Belle he Beast paring Beast,” nt, right, ceiving n Roussel, h.
-
against all odds. Sean Roussel plays Cogsworth in the upcoming Beauty and the Beast, and he has spent weeks helping Clement with design. Roussel met Clement seven years ago when a friend reached out to him to audition.
“There is nobody in the River Parishes as dedicated to preserving the arts in our community as [Clement] is,” Roussel said. “There’s certainly nobody with the background from music training to set building, directing and painting. I think it’s something that we
need to embrace more as a community. It’s something that families can take part in, and without his vision and direction, I don’t know where community theater would be in this area.” Roussel said Clement is a leader capable of pulling out the best in his team members, even those who are having the worst of days. “He has his eye on the end result,” Roussel said. “He finds a way to make you want to get better. He has a vision, and you want to be part of it.” According to Clement, a handful of young actors and actresses he’s directed have gone on to pursue careers in performance arts. Courtney Anderson Boe took her talents to Disney to work as Tinkerbell and sing with the Victory Belles. Matt Reher directs, acts and coordinates a children’s camp in Philadelphia, while Matt Reges went on to do
road shows for Broadway despite never taking a lead role at home. Mostly recently, Trey McCoy wrapped up a 2017-18 traveling tour with Motown: The Musical. Clement said theater comments on society and tells an underlying story about belonging. “For a lot of these people, this is the only place where they belong,” Clement said. “I would love to see a world with mandatory performance art in school, because I think it would lead so many more people to discover they love it.” Between directing shows, Clement has also worked with the Sugar Queen pageant in Reserve. He serves as an artistic director for Krewe Du Monde and sponsors Riverside Academy’s band and dance programs. — By Brooke Robichaux
Farmers M a Every Sun rket 12 pm - 4 day pm
OPEN EVERYDAY
10 E. Pine Street, Ponchatoula, LA 70454
(985) 386-9580
www.ponchatoulacountrymarket.org www.facebook.com/PonchatoulaCountryMarket
(985) 308-0983 Like us on
RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
8 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Jazzercise fuses cardio, resistance training, Pilates, yoga, kickboxing and modern dance. A dance workout that consists of modern moves and strength training.
1503 W Airline Hwy | Laplace | Classes Offered 7 Days A Week Call Jessica at (504) 220-9207 | E: jbc1083@yahoo.com
Fresh Produce & Plants Local Honey, Jellies, Salsa Free Range Grass Fed Beef & Chicken & Eggs
Seafood, Meals to Go Hot Tamales & Sausage Breads, Pastries & Sweets
Jambalaya, Pastalaya, Kettlecorn Crafts, Soaps, Candles
Crafts and Cultural Entertainment www.germancoastfarmersmarket.org
* Vendor List * Newsletter Sign-Up * Recipes* Events Calendar For more information call 504.782.8517 RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Going the extra mile: St. John Parish bus driver delivers excellence
B
eyond providing transportation, bus drivlast year and had trouble adjusting, Lennix looked out ers should strive to be mothers, protectors for him on the bus. and counselors for the children they serve, “Anything you ask her, she’ll do,” Mitchell said. “Ms. according to Barbara Lennix. B is always there. She goes the extra mile.” Recently recognized as bus driver of the Shondrika Williams rode Lennix’s bus in high school, year by the three St. and her children are John the Baptist Parish now joining the bus schools she serves, route. Lennix has connected “Seeing her pull up with local students for on my son’s first day of more than 30 years. school, I knew I had no The children who rode worries,” Williams said. Lennix’s bus years ago “She’s not just a driver; now walk their own chilshe’s family.” dren to her bus route. Throughout the years, Lennix says she Lennix has received remembers her students, candy, candles, gift past and present. At cards and other tokens LaPlace Elementary of appreciation from stuand John L. Ory, eighth dents. Some of her favorgraders who have rode ites include a school with Lennix since kinbus potted plant and a dergarten sometimes T-shirt with a cross. grow teary eyed when Steve Vales, superviit’s time to say goodbye. sor of transportation for Lennix took up driving St. John Parish Public soon after her mother Schools, said Lennix is suffered a stroke in the a team player, always early 1980s, first at the calm under pressure and Council on Aging and solution-oriented. Barbara Lennix, a bus driver with St. John the Baptist Parish then for St. John the “If I could put Ms. Public Schools, built an amazing reputation safely delivering local children to area schools for more than three decades. Baptist Parish Public Barbara in a copy She was recently recognized as bus driver of the year. Schools. Flexible hours machine and make more attracted her to the field of her, I would,” Vales as she cared for her said. “She’s involved mother. A love for students convinced her to stay. in the school community, and it shows in her recogniWhether driving children to grade school or East St. tions.” John High, Lennix aims to be a positive influence. Lennix said her work is a team effort. “I might be the only person kids can talk to,” Lennix “I can’t do without my co-workers, the administrasaid, adding the children who stir up trouble need the tors, the parents, the schools, the principals and most of most support. “Some of them come back and say ‘thank all, the kids. We all together make one.” you for listening to me and correcting me.’” Barbara Lennix shows Lennix communicates with parents, informing them — By Brooke Robichaux off her bus driver shoes. when their children are misbehaving but also letting them know when their children are good. When she drives by a route and parents aren’t home, she’ll pass the stop and return when she knows the child won’t be left alone. Former classmate Lynette Mitchell said Lennix’s caring personality has shined through her whole life. According to Mitchell, Lennix would bring money to her elementary school so all of her friends could afford to buy snacks. When Mitchell’s 5-year-old grandson started school
10 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Consider Pre-planning…
Funeral pre-planning can save your loved ones the stress of making difficult decisions in their time of grief, as well as alleviate the financial burden of carrying out final arrangements.
Compassionate & Professional
Funeral Planning Services We honor all pre-need insurance policies, including those from other funeral homes. Funeral Services | Cremation Services | Funeral Prearrangements
“We Serve Only Louisiana Seafood”
14386 River Road, Destrehan, LA
TUES-WED: 10am-8pm • THURS-SAT: 10am-9pm
Boiled & Live Seafood, Poboys, Wraps, Daily Lunch Specials & More!
Call in your order today 1870 Cabanose Ave. | Lutcher | 225-869-0000 www.roselynnfuneralhome.com
985-725-0053
RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Run Poo The phrase “calm before the storm” needs a bit of tweaking to accurately sum up what Anthony “Pooka” Williams is experiencing these days. These days represent the calm after, months following the sensational Hahnville High School running back’s Herculean postseason and subsequent collegiate decision. His 3,118 rushing yards through 15 games now stands as Louisiana’s single season all-time rushing record. He scored 40 times. Once the playoffs began, he rushed for at least 300 yards on three occasions and topped 200 in the other two. His 1,384 yards and 15 touchdowns in the playoffs — the Class 5A playoffs, Louisiana’s highest classification mind you — was staggering, before considering postseason opponents Ruston, Covington, Acadiana and Zachary each have strong football
Seafood Luch Plates Fresh Po-Bs Muffalas
12 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
traditions. It added up to Hahnville making its first championship game appearance since 2003. In short, Pooka became the most captivating individual player in high school football. From that postseason through his eventual signing to play at the University of Kansas, he owned the spotlight. “It really was crazy,” said Williams as he reflected on his senior season. “It was nuts. I took a lot on my shoulders and I wanted to pull us to a championship.” Hype around Pooka wasn’t a new thing. Before his sophomore season, Tulane offered Williams a scholarship based on his eye-popping performance at a Green Wave recruiting camp — that came before Williams had ever earned extensive play in a varsity game. It was understood Pooka was next up in a strong lineage of Hahnville stars,
oka Run and he did nothing but meet that hype head on in each of his next two years. But as a senior, he exceeded the hype, and once the playoffs began, he shattered whatever ceiling people imagined for him. “I told Coach Salt after our last game before the playoffs, ‘you’re about to see a whole different person, Coach. You’ll see,’” Williams recounted. It didn’t take long to show he meant it: 26 carries for 305 yards against Denham Springs; 42 carries for 303 yards at Ruston and 27 carries for 353 yards against Covington propelled Hahnville into the state semifinals, where the Tigers would visit Acadiana, which had never lost at home in the playoffs under head coach Ted Davidson and were on a 28-game home playoff win streak.
What followed was Hahnville rallying back from a two-touchdown deficit to force overtime, where the Tigers eventually had the chance to kick an extra point to tie—or go for two points and the win. With Pooka on his side, HHS coach Nick Saltaformaggio didn’t hesitate to seize the night. And what followed was perhaps the signature run of the star rusher’s career: he rushed to the left, saw Acadiana had identified and defended the play, cut back on a dime and to the middle of the field before lunging into the endzone for the conversion, the win and Hahnville’s first ticket to the Superdome in nearly 15 years. “That’s the night I’m gonna remember more than anything,” Williams said. Saltaformaggio said Williams’ legacy will be the program cornerstone
Serving The River Parishes Since 1975
PROFESSIONAL CERAMIC COATINGS Never wax your car again!!
Your Full Service Collision & Repair Facility All Insurance Claims Welcomed 1016 Bert Street • LaPlace Fax: 985-651-2714 After Hrs: 985-817-9613 RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
that propelled Hahnville back to prominence. “He put us back on the map,” Saltaformaggio said. “Next year after spring football, when people write about 2018 contenders, we’re legit in that conversation now. And he made football at Hahnville fun again. He was popular, it was fun for people to go to the games … the fans came out in droves. He made kids in middle school say I want to go to Hahnville, I want to be like Pooka. He jump started our football program.” Hahnville offensive line coach David Baudry has been in the profession for 30 years, and says Williams set a new standard for prep rushers. “He’s the best back I’ve ever seen,” Baudry said. “I’ve seen some really good ones, but he’s as great as anybody who’s played the game in Louisiana. He brings that combo of strength, speed and elusiveness. He’s the whole package.” Williams said that as a freshman, he didn’t know the person he would eventually become, but he knew he had the potential to do some special things on the football field. “I had confidence in my ability,” Williams said. “I knew I had the ability to break records. When I finally put my mind to it and dedicated myself to the grind, that’s when it really came to life.” That goes for off the field as well. Williams had to silence doubters when it came to his recruitment. Some questioned his size of 5’10, 170 lbs and how it would play at the college level. The level of skill he showed on the field did more than enough to entice any coach to see for himself. For others, it was a matter of whether Williams
14 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Anthony “Pooka” Williams signs his le
would qualify academically. He put those doubts to bed, earning the grades and ACT score to qualify; as a senior, Williams earned his way to the Honor Roll. “I wasn’t far off (academically),” Williams said. “Everyone was doubting me. I don’t like doubt and I wanted to prove them wrong. I was grinding in the classroom like I was grinding out on the field. And it paid off.” While many locals hoped he would make his way to LSU, he opted to honor the commitment he made to the University of Kansas as a junior. That brought more questions, as Kansas’ football tradition is not a strong one, particularly when compared to other schools he could have attended. “Some people are still stuck on ‘Why Kansas?’” Williams said. “But I’m happy with my decision. Their coaches told me no lies. They didn’t promise me a starting job or that I’d walk in and be featured. They said I’d have to earn it. They kept it real.” He is most looking forward to competing for a
gns his letter of intent to attend the University of Kansas.
spot and trying to help spur the KU program forward. But the eventual destination he dreams of is loftier than that. And after what he just accomplished at
Hahnville, who could blame him? “My goal is to get to the NFL Draft,” Williams said. “In my head, I have visions of doing it all over again.”
SEAFOOD STEAKS BURGERS LIVE MUSIC
C’S E B UR BOROAK LL YO
T G N E V E ERIN CATDS! NEE FO
GRAB A GIFT CARD
MAKES A GREAT GIFT FOR ANY OCCASION!
105 GARY RD.
•
LA PLACE
(985) 224-8172
WWW.BECSATTHELAKE.COM
RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Family fun opens in St. James Parish
P
Derrick and Nicolle Adams enjoy the ground breaking last year of Atoms in Motion with sons Preston and Peyton.
aulina residents Derrick and Nicolle Adams broke ground July 21, 2017, on a family dream in Gramercy. It wasn’t for their family; it was for families all across the River Parishes. “Being parents of two small children and working full time jobs, we were always looking for things to do,” Nicolle said. “We know how difficult life can sometimes be. Providing the River Parishes with a family entertainment place, close to home, made our decision easy to take on this project.” Their passion project is Atoms in Motion, which is open today at 1735 Deroche Circle in
Gramercy. The facility includes 9,600 square feet of climate-controlled, indoor trampolines, inflatables, interactive games and pretend play options. The family entertainment location can host birthday parties and special events. “After almost three years of planning and many tough challenges, Atoms in Motion is now completed,” Nicolle said. “We are very proud that we’ve made our dream become a reality.” Future plans include a 12,000 square foot addition of trampolines and arcades. Call 225-258-9246 or look up Atoms in Motion on Facebook.
BAILEY’S WORLD FAMOUS ANDOUILLE Look for the Sausage Man
THE PLACE WHERE QUALITY COMES FIRST!
• Sausage • Andouille • Boudin • Tasso • Hog Head Cheese • Smoked Chickens HOURS: Monday thru Friday 8am - 5:30pm
985-652-9090 513 W. Airline Hwy. LaPlace, LA 70068 www.baileysandouille.com
EJ & MARCELLE BAILEY 16 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
At left: Pictured at the Atoms in Motion ground breaking are Betty Cooper, from left, Glenn Waguespack, Rhonda Lee, Parish President Timmy Roussel, Derrick Adams, Craig Calcagno, Nicolle Adams (with sons Preston & Peyton), Sheriff Willie Martin, Gramercy Police Chief Brent Dicharry, Gramercy Mayor Steve Nosacka, Gloria Trahan and state Rep. Clay Schexnayder.
Since 2008
Homeland Investigations
Ethics, Integrity, Experience A+ Rating from BBB
NEED A PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR? • Background Checks • Process Service • Criminal Cases • Workmans Comp • Surveillance for Child Custody, Cheating Spouses & More
Consu
ltation
F REE Le
!
is
t’s dis of yourcuss the nee case to ds day
(855) NOLA-PI1 or (855) 665-2741
www.homeland-investigation.com pi@homeland-investigation.com RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
18 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Explore new flavors over an open flame Just about anything can be cooked over an open flame. No matter the type of grilling they’re using, cooks who prepare meals over an open flame can’t help but notice the distinctive flavor that’s unique to grilled foods. Trying something new this grilling season can open cooks’ eyes to a host of flavors they might not instantly associate with grilling. The following recipe for “Ginger Soy Chicken Breasts” from Eric Treuille and Brigit Erath’s “Grilling” (DK Publishing) is one such meal that can open cooks’ eyes to the many wonderful foods that can be cooked over an open flame.
Ginger Soy Chicken Breasts (Serves 4) 2 3 2 2 2 1 1⁄2 4 — —
tablespoons grated fresh ginger garlic cloves, crushed tablespoons dark brown sugar teaspoons sesame seeds teaspoons toasted sesame oil tablespoon medium dry sherry cup soy sauce boneless chicken breast halves, slashed Salt Black pepper
Combine ginger, garlic, sugar, sesame seeds, sesame oil, sherry, and soy sauce. Add chicken and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes, turning once. Grill according to instructions below. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Serve hot with Cilantro Coconut Sauce (optional). To slash chicken breasts: With a sharp knife, cut 3 parallel slashes through skin, about 1⁄4-inch deep. Outdoor grill: Grill skin-side down on medium-hot coals until crisp, about 7 minutes. Turn and continue grilling until chicken is opaque with no trace of pink, another 5 minutes. Indoor grill: Preheat broiler. Broil skin-side up until skin is crisp, about 7 minutes. Turn and continue cooking until chicken is opaque with no trace of pink, another 5 minutes.
Cilantro Coconut Sauce 1 1 4 1 1 1⁄2 1 3 1 1⁄2
handful cilantro leaves handful fresh mint leaves garlic cloves, crushed green chile, seeded and chopped avocado, peeled, halved and pitted teaspoon grand cumin teaspoon sugar tablespoons fresh lime juice cups coconut milk Salt Tabasco sauce
(Makes 2 1⁄8 cups)
Place cilantro, mint, garlic, chile, avocado, cumin, sugar, lime juice, and coconut milk in a food processor or blender; pulse to a purée. Add salt and Tabasco sauce to taste. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend. Serve chilled. Cooks note: To avoid discoloration, store in a bowl with plastic wrap, pressing directly on the sauce to prevent contact with air.
RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Women’s Apparel Curvy Apparel Maternity Accessories & Shoes
ueqwuite h q ti u o B n r e d n o m Modern B ohuartim! AA C n r e th u o a S with aat and Instagram , Snapch Follow us on Faceborokn Ch&a otio!ns. prromm s e al th riv ar u st o te la S r ou for all of
ery BODY!
Beautiful fashion for ev
1616 W. Airline Hwy 357 Belle Terre Blvd. Catering Orders
(985) 651-1981 (985) 652-8700 (504) 417-3282
1970 Ormond Blvd Suite C • Destrehan, LA
(985) 725-3224 www.theonyxboutique.com SUMMER HOURS:
Monday Monday--Friday: Friday:10 11AM AM--66PM PM Saturday: Saturday:10 10AM AM--44PM PM
B
20 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
T X E N R U O Y BOOK Y T R A P Y A D H T R BI 4 Party Packages Character Appearances & Photo Opportunities Available
Memberships & Gift Cards Available in Store
Open 7 Days a Week
Tuesdays open to Exceptional Children ONLY!!
2021 W. Airline Hwy.
985-359-2697
Better, HealtHcare Better,Quicker Quicker HealtHcare
NatioNally accredited. NatioNally accredited.
3317 Highway 51 • LaPlace • (985) 233-3317 • www.riversideurgentcare.net 3317 Highway 51 • LaPlace • (985) 233-3317 • www.riversideurgentcare.net Open 7 Days a Week 9am-8pm Open 7 Days a Week 9am-8pm RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Grandm
Destrehan i horseshoe c who is stil When the Corso family gets together for backyard barbecues and picnics, they might play a friendly game of volleyball, maybe kickball or some cabbage ball. But no one ever suggests playing horseshoes at those family gatherings. That’s because everybody knows Grandma is a ringer. Edie Corso of Destrehan is an 82-year-old mother of three, grandmother of eight and great grandmother of seven (with another on the way). The National Horseshoe Pitchers Association also ranks her No. 8 in the nation. “Not bad for an old lady,” the fit, feisty Corso said as she pointed out a dining room wall covered with the awards she has earned over the past 12 years. “I didn’t do anything until I was an old lady,” she said. “I just raised my kids, worked when I felt like it or when we needed the extra money.” About 25 years ago, Corso, who lives within a stone’s throw of two of her children, got involved with the Senior Olympics in St. Charles Parish. At the age of 57, she started with track, throwing the discus, javelin, shot put and the hammer. She promptly won 12 gold medals – the first of many sporting accomplishments. In 1998, when she was 63, Corso was recognized as the Senior Olympian of the Year for the Bayou Region. All the while, her husband, Jim, just shook his head.
22 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
dma’s a Ringer
an is home to one of the best oe competitors in the country still just looking for a game
“He’d say, ‘What you want to go do that for?” Corso said. Corso lost her dear husband to cancer 12 years ago. But, not one to mope around, Corso just increased her activity level. She continued to dance a few times a week, as she and Jim had done. She bowls every week in a competitive league. She paints, has several awards to show for it, and even taught art to her fellow senior citizens.
But her favorite activity is the pitching of the horseshoes. That was a little game she used to play when she was a girl — OK, a tomboy — growing up as the youngest in a family with six brothers and one sister on 160 acres of farmland in Gadsden, Alabama. “I used to play with my brothers a little bit,” she said. “It’s really my favorite.” After Jim died, she became heavily involved, joining the Harahan Horseshoe Pitchers Association and
RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Edie Corso shows off some of her favorite paintings that line her Destrehan home. She has also sold a few.
quickly moving up the ranks for her age groups and in women’s singles, women’s doubles and mixed doubles. And she’s good. As the 2018 season gets underway, Corso’s current ringer percentage (the percent of her pitches that come to rest encircling the stake) is 41.50 (as of June 13). In other words, she doesn’t miss often. “No, I don’t,” she said. “That’s why none of my grand kids want to play me.” She wishes they would come see her in action. Last year Corso finished eighth overall in the Adult National Top 10, finishing with a score of 32.30. Over the years, she and her mixed doubles partner, Larry Pertuit, have won several tournaments as have she and her women’s doubles partner, Linda Dodson.
24 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
In 2014, Corso competed in the NHPA World Tournament in Buffalo, New York, where she finished third in her age group. “She is a great lady,” said Michelle Higgins, the director of the Retired and Senior Citizens volunteer program in St. Charles Parish. Corso also is on the Board of the Bayou River Division of the Senior Olympics. “She’s very active and she really represents St. Charles Parish well.” While her dining room may be devoted to her skill at horseshoes, much of the rest of Corso’s home is a showcase for her art. One day, her daughter, Mitzi, who was a novice teacher at the time, needed help putting together a classroom bulletin board. She told her mom, “I need somebody to draw this.” Corso asked for a marker, sat down and drew the design freehand. “Mitzi said, ‘Momma, I didn’t know
you could do that,’” Corso said. “I said, ‘Neither did I.’” A few months later, her son, Rusty, arrived with a bag full of art supplies, which promptly went into a closet — not to be seen again until the Flood of 1995. Eventually, Corso found a passion for her newfound talent — despite her husband’s lack of enthusiasm. “He said, ‘You’ll never sell a one,” Corso said. Yes, she did. Several, in fact. Corso also taught herself to sew, even producing a fully tailored suit for her husband. Asked if there’s anything she can’t do, Corso took a minute before replying, “Well, I don’t know. I don’t think so.” — By Lori Lyons
Landcraft Homes can build your dream home with our
“One-Closing Solution:” 1. Choose your floorplan and elevation from our library of plans. 2. Choose your colors, flooring, granite, hardware, lighting and trim. 3. Landcraft BUYS your lot of choice or builds on your lot. 4. Landcraft PAYS for the construction. This saves you THOUSANDS of dollars in interest and closing costs that are normally associated with land acquisition and a construction loan.
For a private presentation contact Sommer Naquin 504-416-9294 Office 985-651-3007 snaquin@LandcraftHomes.com www.LandcraftHomes.com Prices, specifications, and availability are subject to change without notice and at Seller’s sole discretion.
“Providing Expert Medical Care Since 1971”
Board Certified Physicians • Sports Medicine John G. Burvant, MD John Carradine, MD • Joint Replacement Brandon P. Donnelly, MD • Arthroscopic Surgery Joseph L. Finstein, MD Charles G. Haddad Jr., MD • Work Related Injuries Keith P. Melancon, MD Jeffrey J. Sketchler, MD • Neck & Back Pain Michael P. Zeringue, MD Boutte • 14041 Hwy. 90, Boutte, LA • 985-764-3001 Metairie • 3939 Houma Blvd., Suite 21 • 504-885-6464
posm.org
RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
SCENE IT: River Parishes
Kenn Wes Nich Edga
Students at East St. John High greet Lt. Chip Wale during the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. St. John officers joined other law enforcement officers and citizens in carrying the Flame of Hope throughout the state, culminating with lighting of the cauldron to officially open the Special Olympics Louisiana Summer Games at Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond.
26 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
St. R up a book Mora Naqu Caitl nez. to dr from
Kennedra Burke looks on as her daughter Alaney Favorite, a West St. John High School senior, signs her intent to attend Nicholls State University during Academic Signing Day in Edgard.
St. Rose Elementary students dress up as their favorite character from a book, led by, back, from left, Madeleine Morales, first grade teacher Robynn Naquin, Elijah Williams, front, Azul Lazo, Caitlyn Porrazzo and Abraham Martinez. Some first grade students chose to dress as Junie B. Jones, a character from Aloha-ha-ha!
St. Rose Elementary students Carlie Dillon, Lizzie Gautreaux and A’Nyla Paul work together to read and discuss a story in a St. Rose Elementary first grade class.
St. Rose Elementary School second graders Anderson Alvarado-Galvez, Angel Rubio and Anayshia Rose listen as cafeteria manager Sabrina Jordan explains different items used in the school’s cafeteria during a tour of what goes on behind the scenes to feed everyone at the school and learn about the food groups students should eat each day to stay healthy.
RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
421 Belle Terre Blvd | LaPlace
Mon - Fri: 7 am to 6 pm Sat: 8 am to 1 pm 28 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Local Flavor St. John Parish
Baba’s Sports Bar & Grill 509 Main Street., LaPlace 985-359-5555 Bailey’s Andouille 513 W. Airline Hwy., LaPlace 985-652-9090 Bec’s At the Lake 105 Gary Rd., LaPlace 985-224-8172 Belle Terre Country Club 111 Fairway Drive, LaPlace 985-652-5000 Best Wok Chinese Restaurant 530 Belle Terre Blvd., LaPlace 985-652-9989 Buddy B’s 2788 River Road E, Garyville 985-535-3663 Cajun Grill 135 Belle Terre Blvd., LaPlace 985-359-4745 Chili’s Grill & Bar 1820 W. Airline Hwy., LaPlace 985-652-1227
Dragon Garden 140 Belle Terre Blvd., Ste E., LaPlace 985-652-7250
Jacob’s Andouille 505 W. Airline Hwy., LaPlace 985-652-9080
Dunkin Donuts 1334 W. Airline Hwy, LaPlace 985-359-9244
The Jambalaya Shoppe 150 Belle Terre Blvd., LaPlace 985-359-5747
Donut Hole 421 W. Airline Hwy, LaPlace 985-651-4001
Kobe Japanese Steak and Sushi 506 Belle Terre Blvd., LaPlace 985-652-8880/652-8853
El Mexicano 1036 W. Airline Hwy # 123, LaPlace, LA 70068 (985) 652-4250 El Paso 1900 US-51 Ste D, LaPlace 985-618-3313 Fatty’s 186 Museum St., Garyville
Mabile’s Restaurant
“Home of the Best Roast Beef in Town!” • Fresh Po-Boys • Seafood Muffaletta • Finger Sandwiches • Vegetable Trays • Plate Lunches • Italian Muffaletta
985-651-2893
1124 W. Airline Hwy. • LaPlace, LA 70068
Frenier Landing 113 Dottie Lane, LaPlace 985-224-2178
Ming’s Akari 1400 W. Airline Hwy, LaPlace 985-359-3335
Frisco Deli 1113 W. Airline Hwy, LaPlace, LA 70068 (985) 651-7745
Momma Jo’s 2917 Hwy 51, Ste A., LaPlace 985-224-2666
LaPlace Frostop 411 Airline Hwy., LaPlace 985-652-6361
Chinese King 1036 W. Airline Hwy., LaPlace 985-651-7888
Gator’s Den Old Highway 51 South, Manchac 985-386-7902
Church’s Chicken 1601 W. Airline Hwy, LaPlace 985-652-2089
Guidry Goody’s 3595 W. Airline Hwy., Reserve 504-606-1185
Chung’s Heavenly Sweets 607 Belle Terre Blvd., LaPlace 985-359-7987
Hibachi Supreme Grill 1721 W. Airline Hwy, LaPlace 985-652-5233
Connie’s Grill 1462 LA-44, Reserve 985-536-3256
Huddle House 4325 Hwy. 51, LaPlace 985-651-1800
Clay’s Cafe 975 B Cambridge, LaPlace 985-359-6848
IHop 220 Belle Terre Blvd., LaPlace 985-652-4468
McDonalds •4297 U.S. Hwy. 51, LaPlace 985-652-5171 •1608 W. Airline Hwy, LaPlace 985-652-2600 •5387 W. Airline, Hwy, Garyville Petra’s 10363 W. Airline Hwy, LaPlace 985-359-8888 Pier 51 Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar 3017 U.S. 51, LaPlace 985-651-0300
Raising Cane’s 123 West Airline Hwy, LaPlace 985-652-4701 Rotolo’s Pizzera 3503 W. Airline Hwy., Ste. B, Reserve 985-536-3503 Ruby Garden Chinese Restaurant 3101 U.S. 51, LaPlace 985-653-8700 Sam’s Southern Eatery 1173 E. Airline Hwy., LaPlace 985-359-1677 Sicily’s 214 Belle Terre Blvd., LaPlace 985-652-7010 Subway •357 Belle Terre Blvd., LaPlace 985-652-8700 •1616 W. Airline Hwy., LaPlace 985-652-4822 •2701 W. Airline Hwy., LaPlace •1900 Hwy. 51, Ste. B, LaPlace 985-479-7827 985-652-9699 Tavern 61 1421 W. Airline Hwy., LaPlace 985-359-6161 TNT Seafood 405 Belle Terre Blvd., LaPlace 985-359-6312 Turn Arounds 1107 E. Airline Hwy., LaPlace 985-224-2818 Waffle House 4304 Hwy. 51, LaPlace 985-651-6111 Wayne Jacob’s Restaurant 769 W. 5th St., LaPlace 985-652-9990
Pirouge’s Cafe 719 W. 10th St., Reserve 985-479-7800 PJ’s Coffee 1808 W. Airline Hwy., LaPlace 985-764-7573 Popeye’s Fried Chicken 1603 W. Airline Hwy., LaPlace 985-652-3030
Zaman Mediterranean Cafe 1502 W. Airline Hwy, LaPlace 985-359-5566 Zora Christina 2003 W. Airline Hwy, LaPlace 985-359-3673
RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
St. James Parish
Bonnie’s 2827 Hwy 20, Vacherie 225-624-0402
Pizza Hut 1665 La. Hwy. 3125, Gramercy 225-869-6151
Boulevard Bistro, 1950 Ormond, Ste. B, Destrehan
Popeye’s 982 La. Hwy. 3125, Gramercy 225-869-6060
Buster’s Grill 10405 Airline Hwy., St. Rose 504-472-0771
Grumpy’s 14984 U.S. 90, Paradis 985-785-2083 Happy Gardens II 15264 U.S. 90, Paradis 985-785-3888
Sandwich World Hwy. 3125, Gramercy 225-869-6060
Cafe Ormond 1974 Ormond Blvd., Destrehan 985-725-0741
Hong Kong 3001 Ormond Blvd., Ste. D, Destrehan 985-725-9099
Cajun Kitchen 13322 U.S. 90, Boutte, Ste. Q 985-785-2405
The Howling Pepper 109 St. Rose Ave., St. Rose 504-466-1944
Cashio’s Food Villa and Deli 13572 River Road, Destrehan 985-764-9389
IHOP 14099 Hwy. 90, Boutte 985-308-0013
Chow’s Garden 1974 Ormond Blvd., Ste. I, Destrehan 985-725-2469
Iron Gate 13299 U.S. 90, Boutte 985-308-0013
Subway 10850 Hwy. 3125, Gramercy
Cucina Bon Creole At Cypress Lakes Country Club 10 Villere Dr., Destrehan 985-764-6868
Jas Café 307 Paul Maillard Rd., Luling 985-785-0200
Taylor’s Express Truck Stop 964 La. Hwy. 3125, Gramercy 225-869-1734
Daddy’s Fried Chicken 15683 River Road, Hahnville 985-783-6743
Tod’s Catering 2180 S. Albert St., Lutcher 225-869-7000
Destrehan Donuts 1974 Ormond, Ste. D, Destrehan 985-764-0050
Café Perique 234 East Main St., Gramercy 225-869-1774 China King 849 N. Pine St., Gramercy 225-869-2000 Chuck Lee’s Chinese Kitchen 10560 Hwy. 70 W., St. James 225-473-3050 Creole House Cafe 3409 Hwy 3125, Paulina 225-859-3333 DJ’s Grille 21060 La. Hwy. 20, Vacherie 225-265-7600 Golden Grove Restaurant 935 La. Hwy. 641, Gramercy 225-869-1212 Grand Point Truck Stop Casino 3415 La. Hwy. 3125, Paulina 225-869-6960 Hymel’s Seafood Restaurant 8740 La. Hwy. 44, Convent 225-562-7031 Jenny’s Overstuffed Poboy & Chicken Shop 114 N. Airline Hwy., Gramercy 225-869-0899 Nobile’s Restaurant & Bar 2082 W. Main St., Lutcher 225-869-8900
Spectacular Tubers 1665 Hwy. 3125, Gramercy 225-869-5600
St. Charles Parish Anita’s Smokin’ Steak Burgers 13145 U.S. 90 Ste. B, Boutte 985-785-2220 Bamboo Garden 13491 U.S. 90, Ste. 6, Boutte 985-785-9929 Bei Jing 12895 U.S. 90, Ste. D, Boutte 985-331-8885
Oak Alley Restaurant 3645 La. Hwy. 18, Vacherie 225-265-2151
Breeze Cafe 124 Longview Drive, Destrehan 985-764-8800
30 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Dot’s Diner 12179 U.S. Hwy. 90, Luling 985-785-6836 El Mexicano 12715 U.S. Hwy. 90, Ste. 140, Luling 985-785-7694 El Paso Mexican Grill 12895 U.S. Hwy. 90, Ste. A, Luling 985-331-1984 Fatty Shack 13527 River Road, Luling 985-308-0983 Frostop 3001 Ormond Blvd., Ste. H, Destrehan 985-725-1116 Grand Café 500 Willowdale Blvd., Luling 985-308-1640
Julie’s Restaurant 15805 River Road, Hahnville 985-783-6349 Little Tokyo 13371 U.S. 90, Ste. A, Boutte 985-331-0887 Lovecchio’s Deli 29 Apple St., Norco 985-725-5683 Mariano’s Italian Eatery 12371 Highway 90, Ste. A, Luling 985-785-7777 McDonalds 3009 Ormond Blvd., Destrehan 985-725-1021 Mizu Japanese Restaurant 12715 Hwy. 90, Ste. 190, Luling 985-785-8168 Mrs. Snowman 110A Lakewood Dr., Luling 985-331-1411 Ormond Plantation Restaurant 13786 River Road, Destrehan 985-764-8544
Palmetto’s Restaurant 10405 Airline Hwy, St. Rose 504-472-0771
Rotolo’s Pizzeria 150 Ormond Center Court, Destrehan 985-725-2411
St. Rose Tavern 14466 River Road, Destrehan 504-469-8864 /985-725-3133
Pam and Dale’s 14620 River Road, Destrehan 985-764-3112
Sailfish Food and Spirits 12287 U.S. 90, Luling 985-308-0712
Sub Express 26 Apple St., Norco 985-764-9922
Pizza Hut 12439 Hwy. 90, Luling 985-331-8380 P.J.’s Coffee of New Orleans 150 Ormond Center Court, Ste. T, Destrehan 985-764-7573
Seafood Pot 14386 River Rd., Destrehan 985-725-0053
Popeye’s Famous Fried Chicken •116 Longivew Drive, Destrehan 985-764-1231 •13210 U.S. 90, Boutte 985-785-1377
Sonic Drive In 12557 U.S. 90, Luling 985-331-0099
Subway •613 Paul Maillard Road, Ste. 200, Luling 985-331-2257 •14130 U.S. 90, Boutte 985-785-9818 (located inside Walmart) •13001 U.S. 90, Boutte 985-331-1786 •12715 U.S. 90, Ste. 120, Luling 985-785-3999 •12609 Airline Drive, Destrehan 985-725-1108 •1955 Ormond Blvd., Destrehan 985-725-9444 •15632 River Rd., Norco 504-469-8864
Portside Restaurant 11698 River Road, St. Rose 504-546-93111 Rico’s Cafe 124 Longview Dr., Destrehan 985-725-3170
Southern Latte Cafe 50 Wade St., Ste. 1, Luling 985-308-1472
Sports Pub & Grill 3001 Ormond Blvd., #B Destrehan 985-331-0099 St. Rose Driving Range & Sports Bar 10362 Airline Dr., St. Rose 504-466-0411
Sushi Cafe 13899 River Road, Ste. A, Luling 985-308-1003
Taste of Tokyo 1972 Ormond Blvd., Ste. E-2, Destrehan 985-764-1818 Trey Wah (Chinese) 124 Longview Drive, Destrehan 985-764-1147 Two Sisters Bakery 100 Melonie St., Ste. E, Boutte 985-308-0280 Voodoo Grill 100 James Drive East, St. Rose 504-464-1880 Waffle House 14173 U.S. 90, Boutte 985-758-6499 Waffle House 10384 E. Airline Hwy., St. Rose 504-467-1522 Wingzzz 613 Paul Maillard Road, Ste. 400, Luling 985-308-0743
Take Away Donuts 13441 Hwy. 90, Boutte 985-785-6499
River parisheS River parisheS River parisheS River parisheS MAGAZINE
Winter 2017 Edition
Medical Mission To Uganda
Dean Supreme: Freeman works for her students
MAGAZINE
MAGAZINE
MAGAZINE
Fall 2017 Edition
Spring 2018 Edition Local Builder leading national industry collective
TRUE HERO: Area grad, 9/11 victim gave life for others
Remembering Herbert Smith: Educator of a lifetime
Summer 2018 Edition STAGE PRESENCE: Darryl Clement directs another classic
WHEELS ON THE BUS : Dedicated driver rolls for 30 years
Advocate provides hope & resources for domestic abuse victims
Fun In The Sun Turns To Poolside Lifesaving Action
Inside look at Louisiana’s best running back.
A Special Publication of
L’Observateur www.lobservateur.com
A Special Publication of
L’Observateur
www.lobservateur.com
A Special Publication of
A Special Publication of
www.lobservateur.com
www.lobservateur.com
L’OBSERVATEUR
L’OBSERVATEUR
RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE
Follow Us on Facebook
athlete /ˈaTHˌlēt/
noun COMPETITOR, CHAMPION, SPORTSMAN To an athlete, sports and physical fitness are not hobbies, but a way of life.
We get it.
ATHLETE-TAILORED THERAPY
St. James Parish Hospital’s Therapy Team understands the specialized needs of athletes. We are trained to offer the latest, evidence-based treatment plans and work to obtain advanced certifications that can help athletes get stronger, faster and more competitive after an injury or surgery. We offer a personalized, multidisciplinary approach that not only treats the original injury, but also addresses possible issues to prevent reinjury. From chronic overuse injuries to acute sprains, strains, tears and fractures, we take pride in the being a part of the journey that helps our local competitors get back to competing.
Call 225.258.5934 to schedule an appointment
Outpatient Therapy Services are provided from 8 AM to 4:30 PM M–F + Extended hours—7 AM to 7 PM—are available by appointment
1645 Lutcher Avenue, Lutcher, LA
This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
32 ~ RIVER PARISHES MAGAZINE