Slidell magazine 44th ed: March 2014 by Slidell Magazine

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF SLIDELL

Arts Evening • March 22, 2014 • Olde Towne

magazin magazine Vol 44 March 2014

ARTSth EVENING 20 Anniversary

Showcasing Slidell’s Amazing Artists WE KEEP IT FRESH

SAY KEEP IT POSITIVE

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NOW THE OFFICIAL RETAILER FOR

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Green Oaks Apothecary

Handmade Aromatherapy & Herbal Remedies for Body & Home

Slidell Museum

Relive History! Featuring one-of-a-kind Civil War Displays

Terry Lynn’s Café

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Editor’sLetter In addition to being our main writer, Lee is often the public face of Slidell Magazine. He’s the inventor of the “Sli-Ku” (it’s so neat that we have a haiku in the mag each month!). He’s a former stand-up comedian and it shows!

Since the beginning, Alan is the behind-the-scenes backbone of Slidell Magazine. Every word, picture, color, and page number in our publication is designed by him.

Alan Lossett

Lee Kreil

Graphic Artist/ Photographer

Kendra with Louis Ochoa, owner of NOLA Southern Grill On Thursday March 27, Slidell Magazine and NOLA Southern Grill will be hosting a Business After Hours social. The party is from 5-7pm and promises to be ﬁlled with food, drinks, friends and fun. JOIN US! At the party, you’ll meet all of the writers, photographers and staff of the Slidell Magazine family. If you’re reading this now, you already know each of them. It is because of this wonderful collection of people and personalities that our publication is a success.

magazine PO Box 4147 • Slidell, LA 70459

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John Case

Mike Rich

Lori Gomez

Tempting the Palette

John Maracich

Crimi-Mommly Insane

Owner of Veterinarian Medical Center on Robert Road, Jeff has cared for my pets (about 200+) for the past 15 years. He makes complex pet problems easy to understand, with a doctor’s dose of humor.

magazine

MikeRich@mypontchartrain.com Rose@RoseMarieSand.com

Anyone who reads Leslie’s stories can relate to them. Whether you have your own children or just put up with the neighbor’s brats, Leslie will have you laughing at the realities of family life.

Leslie Gates

Slidell 20/20

www.LoriGomezArt.com

Mike Rich Rose Marie Sand

What a phenomenal talent! Lori is the BEST cook I know (I gorge myself at her home as often as I can), an amazing artist, and my best friend.

As the owner of Expo Signs, John knows well the business climate of Slidell. He’s a full-time business owner, husband and father by day... and heavy metal rocker by night!

Contributing Writers:

Charlotte Lowry Collins

Rose Marie Sand Go Beyond

Making Sense of Your Money

Lee Kreil - Staff Writer

The Storyteller, John Case Jockularity, Corey Hogue Pet Points, Jeff Perret, DVM Slidell 20/20, John Maracich, III Crimi-mommly Insane, Leslie Gates Dan Crowley

Rose is an artist in the truest sense - she sees beauty in all things. Readers are welcomed on her travels each month, exploring the world and their own imaginations.

Mike has been with Slidell Magazine from the start. His passion for helping people shows in his ﬁnancial advice, as well as his community activism.

Alan Lossett - Graphic Design

Lori Gomez

A modern day William Faulkner, John is a historian and storyteller with talent that humbles me. I am captivated by his tales each month and our readers are too! John’s stories always get the biggest reader response.

The Storyteller

Kendra Maness - Editor/Publisher Editor@SlidellMag.com

Donna Bush EFOP / Sli-Ku, Lee Kreil

Staff Writer (Sli-Ku, EFOP, Leadership Northshore)

Dr. Jeff Perret Pet Points

Donna’s ethereal photography and writing sweeps us up every month as she brings us closer to the beautiful things to be found in nature, and ourselves.

Donna Bush Nature Writer/ Photographer

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Story by Lee Kreil

ef o

Extraordinarily Fascinating “Ordinary” Person of the Month Sponsored by:

Arriollia “Bonnie” Vanney

Lawn Care

March 2014

Laissez Les “Bonnie” Temps Roulez “If History were taught in the form of stories…it would never be forgotten.” ~ Rudyard Kipling Over 40 years ago, the city of Slidell had no idea what it was getting when Arriollia “Bonnie” Vanney crossed Lake Pontchartrain with her husband, Val, and settled down into the south side of town. She is a woman of infinite stature with an equally colorful vocabulary to match. Bonnie is the kind of Southern woman that you definitely want on your side; and bless you if you have to go up against her after she’s made up her mind that she needs or wants something. Imagine Scarlett O’Hara from Gone with the Wind and add 40 years of getting what she wants to that! Tenacity and passion - thy name is Bonnie. Lucky for us and the City of Slidell, March’s EFOP is on our side. What she usually wants is the “stuff” of history; in this case, pictures, Mardi Gras throws and gowns, and family stories. But not for herself she wants it for us. Bonnie is collecting HISTORY so she can give it back to the people. Spend any amount of time at all with Bonnie and I promise you will feel like you just attended the

coolest history lecture ever! A simple question asked or comment made to this author and historian quickly turns into an educational moment. While leaving the Slidell Mardi Gras Museum with Bonnie, a passing remark about street names, which ones were changed and why, triggered a lively response. Bonnie was like a 1900’s version of OnStar or Google Maps rifling off street names of the past, but actually guiding me from Pontchartrain Blvd. down Front Street and into Olde Towne via First Street, then to Carey. She just used the original street names and told me when they changed, where they stopped before continuing under another name (or as the familiar names we know today). It was like second nature to her. No wonder Bonnie can rattle off stuff like that; it is who she is. Our EFOP has been many things over the years: a wife, mother, business owner, commercial fisherman, award-winning cook,

political advisor; but it is her role as author, researcher, and historian that keeps her going. As Bonnie energetically explains, “I see something and I want to know all about it so I’ll research the crap out of it. I’ll research anything! I know more damn stuff about things just because I got curious about it.” Oh, and I might have forgotten to mention that your history lecture comes with a PG-13 rating for colorful language! This love of research and her natural curiosity resulted in not one, but THREE books, with a fourth one in the works. She has a great story for how the books came about… “At the time, I was entering all kinds of cooking contests and I was winning them, so everyone kept saying, ‘When are you gonna write a cookbook?’ So I said ‘Ok, I’m gonna write a freakin’ cookbook!’ But then I got to thinking about it, and every mother and her brother in Southeast Louisiana writes a freakin’ cookbook. It’s the truth! So I got all the recipes and wrote the book, but it needed

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something. I had to have a niche. My mother-in-law grew up down there between the Chef and the Rigolets and she had a lot of old pictures. So I thought - I’m gonna write a history of that area too. I began digging and digging through pictures and talking to the old people and going through their old pictures and decided to do the book.” After nearly five years of research, she got all she needed to write the book, “An Island Between the Chef and Rigolets.” This and the companion book, “The Lost & Forgotten Communities of Chef Menteur-Rigolets & Lake St. Catherine In Orleans Parish” took a total of eight years to complete. It was a great honor and validation of her hard work and excellent research when both books were recognized by the State of Louisiana as THE source books for the histories of the Chef Menteur, Rigolets, and Lake St. Catherine areas. The information Bonnie took years to collect and document on paper is now regarded as historical fact! Both books also are included in the Louisiana Collection, the New Orleans Historic Collection, and the Library of Congress. Fearing Bonnie’s first book was going to be an exposé, many of the locals in the area weren’t going to talk to Bonnie because there was a lot of, in her words, “hanky-panky” going on… “When the book came out, I was at the book signing in a bar down there and I signed 150 books in two hours. I saw people sitting there wide-eyed, flipping through the pages, making sure I hadn’t divulged something that I wasn’t supposed to say!” she said, making us both laugh. “I uncovered a lot of stuff but I wasn’t interested in all the goings-on. I was focused on telling the historical record. Needless to say, the book was a big hit, even if some people were buying it just to see if they WEREN’T in the book! I had to self-publish the book because people told me there wouldn’t be any interest in it. Boy, were they wrong! I’ve sold over 6,000 copies since it came out.” The second book started out primarily focusing on Lake St. Catherine and the barriers, the development along the L&N Railroad line and the community of 745 people that called this area home. It wound up being somewhat of a before-and-after record of Katrina; what the storm actually did and what happened to the area. “It was just all gone. To see the pictures and then look at the devastation and see that nothing was left. The entire town was wiped clean off. I still have nightmares of the images to this day.” Bonnie and her husband, Val, would know much of what it was like when Hurricane Katrina went through this area. She and Val spent seven hours in a canoe during the storm with their 20 year old dog because their house was 6-8ft under water. They anchored their canoe by the porch under the eave on the side away from the blowing wind and rain and just watched the storm. That’s all they could do. She remembers taking in so much while watching the storm first hand. Two things that really stood out in her memory: the water was the coldest she had ever felt it in all here years of living by the water and she’ll never forget the sight of huge pine trees just bending over completely and snapping right back up between each gust of wind. Nothing can keep Bonnie down; not even Hurricane Katrina. As she told me with resolve in her voice, “You gotta move on. What else can you do? You can’t just quit! We were lucky when all was said and done. Our house was flooded but we had plenty of food and water. Our couch stayed floating for some reason so we put the dog on the couch so she could be comfortable. As the water slowly dropped and the cleanup started, I realized that I had all my Mardi Gras stuff and didn’t know what the hell to do with it all. I had a huge display in the house. And, I still had tons of it in boxes.” Her solution came to her when she was visiting the Slidell Museum one day... “I came in and looked around and didn’t see anything about Mardi Gras. So I went to the library. You know what? They didn’t have a single book on Slidell’s Mardi Gras! They do now - because of course I wrote the thing! When I went back to the museum, there were a few Mardi Gras beads in the corner in one of the display cases in the front. I said, ‘Is that all you got to show for our Mardi Gras?’ So I decided to do a Mardi Gras display there.” Our EFOP was told there was an empty jail cell in the back (the Slidell Museum is housed in the former Slidell City Jail) and if she wanted that space to use for her display it would be alright. Bonnie started out in that empty jail cell in 2009. The single cell wasn’t even close to big enough so she started looking around and found the building right behind the museum. This is where Bonnie’s tenacity and fire came in handy. She had to fight for the building and, of course, she got what she wanted. She had

to explain that this building wasn’t just for her but that it was “for the people of Slidell and those that participated in the darn thing for years!” A history lesson followed... “The building housed the Juvenile Division of the Slidell Police Department before they moved everything over to the new building down the road. The Civil Defense called it home for a while as did the Sheriff’s Department. The building was in the process of being renovated when Katrina hit. Originally, it was the pump house so it’s a historic building and can’t be torn down. The city didn’t have the money to finish refurbishing it, so it went unused. I asked Mayor Drennan if I could have the building for the museum and he gave it to me for that use. It needed a lot of work and finishing to do.”

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There was a lot of work to be done; both on the building and for all the displays that would fill the museum. It was also at this time in 2009 that Bonnie got diagnosed with cancer. Have I mentioned yet that you can’t keep this woman down? It definitely bears repeating! As she would tell me, it took something as big as cancer to slow her down just enough to spend the next three years to organize and finish all the books that are in the new Mardi Gras Museum. “I started working on the books the same year I got my diagnosis. We were traveling back and forth from MD Anderson in Houston all the time so it was a long drive. Once we got there and I did my tests, we would have to wait an entire day for the results, then I’d do a treatment, and we’d stay in a hotel and then drive back. We repeated this routine over and over and over. I had a lot of time to work on the books - in the car and at the hotel room. I had a lot of time to organize everything and get all the books finished.”

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And finish it she did. The books are the most complete record of every Krewe and parade that has rolled through the streets of Slidell. Many of the books are scanned onto disc now for posterity; no more lost or ruined pictures as a result of flooding and storms again. Bonnie also has many of the negatives of the original pictures so if someone wants a picture, it can be redeveloped. Over 800 items make up the displays within Slidell’s Mardi Gras Museum. She also searched for and obtained many of the ornate costumes that are the focus of the Krewe’s royalty and iconic to every parade. “What are you gonna do with a dress like that after the Ball and parade? You can’t wear it around the house? So I started asking for them. When you’re riding on a float, people cannot see how much work goes into these costumes. You’re talkin’ about a lot of nickels here! Some of these have to be around $1,200 or more. A lot of work goes into making these gowns. I wore the black one to the City’s 125th birthday bash at City Hall because we wanted to dress in period clothing. Let me tell you, it’s heavy and plenty warm too! It was a cool night but I was plenty warm. They are actually quite comfortable for how heavy they are.” She went on and on about many of the dresses and gowns. Story after story, as only Bonnie can do. It’s easy to remember them all because she isn’t giving a lecture. She is telling stories with passion - as only a true historian can. Visiting the Mardi Gras Museum is like stepping back in time in Slidell. It is one of the most colorful rooms you’ll ever visit. And, as Bonnie is proud to boast, you can take pictures of everything and feel the costumes and touch things unlike most other museums. Stop in and take a tour to see all the hard work Bonnie has done in putting the museum together. So what is next for my EFOP? She has a new book coming out sometime during the summer. It is the story of us - Slidell. It is part of the Images of America series covering a lot of the smaller towns across the region. “The book is gonna be called “Slidell”. Mayor Drennan told me they wanted a history written about the city and he thought it sounded like something I would want to do. He also said, ‘This is gonna look great on your resume’. I said, ‘Freddy, I’m 67 years old! It might look good on my obituary! I’m trying to stop! Why the hell would I wanna go to work?” Because research and history are in her blood, that’s why. Bonnie is ahead of her deadline and has already received approval on the cover. She has just mailed off the book to be edited and formatted. Her history of Slidell will join the other three books she has written and, like those books, I’m sure this one will be used by others for many years to come as a primary source of information about Slidell. If you have any information, pictures, stories, or articles to donate or lend to the Sidell Mardi Gras Museum, Bonnie Vanney would be more than happy to oblige. And, if your lucky, she just might tell you a story...

Music by: Ronnie Kole Trio Bobby Ohler & The Harbor Band The Storyville Stompers

LIVE MUSIC • DANCING • SILENT & LIVE AUCTIONS

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An annual two day event beneﬁting Easter Seals Louisiana and STARC

Chateau Kole on Bayou Liberty

Sat urday & Sunday March 22 & 23 3 pm – 7 pm

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$100/person. Tables for 10 people are $1,000 with the table reserved in your name.

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TICKETS:

Wines, Champagne and Budweiser Products compliments of Champagne Beverages

• Paul Prudhomme’s K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen Executive Chef, Paul Miller • John Besh’s La Provence • Drago’s Seafood Restaurant • Pinewood Country Club • Patton’s Salmen-Fritchie House • Andrea Apuzzo, Andrea’s • Tommy & Frank Wong, Trey Yuen • Desserts by Royal Sonesta Hotel • Le Foret • John Besh’s Lüke • Michael’s Restaurant • LA Pines • Ann Sergie’s Assunta’s • The Original Italian Pie • Café Lynn • Nathan’s • Copeland’s • Starbuck’s • Southside Café • Chesterﬁeld’s • Blue Bell Ice Creameries • Chateau Bleu • Sapphire Restaurant • Sweet Cheeks Cakes • Silver Slipper Casino • Zea’s • Christopher’s on Carey • Bonnie C’s • NOLA Southern Grill • Sunrise on Second • Fox’s Pizza Den

2014 INVITED CHEFS & RESTAURANTS

Bubbly on the Bayou Patton’s • 11am-3pm

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Olde Towne • 1pm

Grand Opening Sculpt Fitness 3 - 5pm

Free Business Counseling Chamber Boardroom BY RSV. ONLY • 9am

April

Hard Hat Party New Chamber Building 5-7pm

Grand Opening Diagnostic Imaging Services 3 - 5pm

Grand Opening Bazelle’s Bakery 3 - 5pm

Restaurant Roundtable Chamber Boardroom • 9am

KREWE OF CHAHTA-IMA KREWE OF SKUNKS Lacombe • 1pm

TUE

Chamber Anniversary Luncheon Trinity’s Banquet Hall 11:30am-1:30pm

Chamber 101 Chamber Boardroom 9am

Networking at the Nest Pelicans Game Meet at Chamber: 4:30pm

WED

Business After Hours Wingate by Wyndham 5-7pm

Business After Hours CiCi’s Pizza • 5-7pm

Grand Opening Massage Envy Spa 3 - 5pm

Communications Committee Olde Towne Soda Shop • Noon Thursday Evening Bass Tournament from 3/13 - 7/24 Lock One Canal • Pearl River

YOU’RE INVITED! Business After Hours Slidell Magazine and NOLA Southern Grill 5-7pm

Communications Committee Olde Towne Soda Shop Noon

LABI Legislative Issues Conference Pinewood Country Club • 11:30am

THU

Luau Party from 8 - 11pm following Golf Event All are Welcome - $20/person

Registration 5pm • Tee Time 6:15pm

Pinewood Golf Course

Fragniappe Harbor Center 10am - 6pm

City Council Forum Pinewood Country Club 8-9:30am

Jr Auxiliary & SMH A Day for Girl’s Health SMH Cancer Center 1-5pm

Gumbo Cookoff 8th St/Gause • 11am-3pm Jazz on the Bayou Chateau Kole • 3-7pm Jag Fest Pope John Paul • 7pm

Radium Girls • Slidell Little Theatre 8pm

Die Mommy Die • Cutting Edge Theater 8pm

Arts Evening Olde Towne 5pm

Radium Girls • Slidell Little Theatre 8pm

Die Mommy Die • Cutting Edge Theater 8pm

Radium Girls • Slidell Little Theatre 8pm

Liars & Lunkers Bass Tournament Lock One Canal Pearl River

VOTE TODAY!!

SPONSORSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE!

Annie • Cutting Edge Theater 8pm

EYP Twilight Golf LUAU Pinewood Golf Course • 5-11pm

“A Fair to Remember” 1984 World’s Fair Photos show runs March 22 - April 26 Slidell Cultural Center The Maltese Falcon Reading Slidell Little Theatre • 7pm

SAT

Die Mommy Die • Cutting Edge Theater 8pm

FRI

Grand Opening Fremaux Town Center • 10am

EYP Twi light Golf Tournament & Luau March 28, 2014

Ambassador Meeting TBD • Noon

985-643-5678

Bayou Jam Boogie Men Heritage Park 5:30pm

HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY!

MON

www.estchamber.com

Jazz on the Bayou Chateau Kole • 3-7pm

Radium Girls Slidell Little Theatre • 2pm

Radium Girls Slidell Little Theatre • 2pm Chef Soiree Bogue Falaya Park Covington • 5-9pm

LPO Concert Slidell Auditorium 2:30-4:30pm

Radium Girls Slidell Little Theatre • 2pm

LAST CHANCE! Salad Days Juried Exhibition of Student Art Slidell Cultural Center show runs through March 8

SUN

www.estchamber.com

Look for the RED Fleur de Lis For more info: 643-5678

Chamber Events!

2 0 1 4

M A R C H

JOE

First in a Series

About twelve years ago I wrote a book. For the next seven years I rewrote it many times. It was a decent story, but not well written. I lack the discipline to edit a 300 page book so that is why I now right short stories and magazine pieces.

passed by on the path, glancing in our direction as if to say, “Is it ok?” He had on a dirty red cap, raggedy blue jeans, a torn tee shirt and he was barefooted. Later that day, he came back and under his arm was a loaf of bread. The day was hot and he looked tired so I ran to the path and asked if he wanted some water. If the truth be known, I wanted someone to play with. I pointed to the house.

The book was named The Goat Tree Odyssey. It dealt with the civil rights struggles of the 1960’s, solving a forty year old murder case and the narrator’s teenage infatuation with an older girl. It was once written in the first person, then changed to the third person and finally back to the first person. After that, it was shelved and there it has remained for the last five years or so. Unless my children dig out the manuscript, it will never be published, but I thought some of the characters were worthy of a short story at least. This is the first in what may become a series. Joe was probably my favorite character so I will start with him. I first met Joe when I was about twelve years old. He, his mother and at that time two sisters, lived in an old house that had once been a plantation home before the Civil War. Now, don’t conjure up any imagination of ornate columns or chandeliers. It was never that kind of home, but it was much nicer then than it was when Joe’s family lived there. When they lived there, it was less than a shack. Rooms had been torn off one by one so the wood could be used for other purposes. There were no

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There are so many things about Louisiana that make us unique. One of my favorites is the abundance of seafood. Especially during this time of year, Lent. As a young girl growing up in Kenner, I remember my dad, mom and two older brothers packing up the truck with crab/crawfish nets, turkey necks and fishing poles and driving over the Spillway. We would go off the beaten trail down a dirt road to get to a clearing by a railroad bridge that led to the Lake. It was a pretty isolated area. (Every now and then, we would come across some interesting characters that l could only describe at first glance as people that you would see in a Steven King movie. In the end, they would turn out to be good old folks living off the land.) We would tie the turkey necks to the nets and hang them off of the railroad trestles. Every so often, we would have to run and lift them out of the way for fishing boats heading out to the Lake. We would wait for the trains to pass, then go pull up the nets in hopes that there would be some fat crabs snacking on the turkey necks. I’m not really sure what my parents were thinking bringing us in the middle of nowhere

Story and Art by Lori Gomez

Palette

and letting us play on the railroad tracks. Oh yeah… they were thinking it was worth it to get those tasty crabs! The fact is, we never really caught that many. In the evenings, the returning fisherman would feel sorry for us and give us some of their crabs. One year, we had relatives visiting from California. We took them with us and ended up with enough crabs to have a crab boil. As the mouthwatering smell of hot boiled crabs filled the air, we could hardly wait to dig in. But first, we needed to show the outof-towners how to crack them open and pick them. One of our guests was so eager that he grabbed a hand full of lungs and popped them into his mouth. The expression on his face was priceless. For the life of him, he couldn’t figure out why we would go through so much trouble for that. I bet that many of you have witnessed this from people that are not from here. Another adventure my parents would take us on to get seafood was night fishing off of an old bridge. I was probably 4 or 5 years old, so I don’t know which bridge it was.

Evidently, it was a popular spot because there were a lot of people there. I remember that we would have to grab our fold-up chairs and fishing gear and run to the foot of the bridge as it would raise up to let the big boats pass. This would happen quite a bit. I also remember that you never knew what was on the end of your hook when you reeled it in. We used to catch a lot of little stingrays (when they were on your line, they felt like a huge fish). One time, my parents bet each other who would catch the biggest fish. Now the details of the bet I did not know, but I can only imagine. I do remember everyone around us cracking up laughing when my mother pulled up a huge eel. So, it just goes to show that we love our seafood and will go to great lengths to get it. A Louisiana favorite is Shrimp and Grits. For March, Creole Bagelry, sponsor of this column, will be serving this recipe for the whole month. Be sure to stop by there and try it along with some of their other amazing food. They will also be serving delicious Muffalettas on sesame seed bagels. Yummmm!

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Shrimp and Grits

Crawﬁsh Topping

1 lb. peeled and deveined shrimp 1 stick of butter ¾ cup of green onions chopped ¾ cup of celery chopped 2 cloves garlic chopped 2 cans Cream of Mushroom soup 1 cup chicken stock Hot sauce to taste Salt and pepper to taste (or Tony Chachere‘s) Your favorite prepared grits

1lb crawﬁsh tails, drained 1 stick butter ¾ cup green onions chopped ¾ cup celery chopped 2 cloves garlic chopped 2 cans Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken soup 1 cup chicken stock 1 tbsp. hot wing sauce or hot sauce to taste Season to taste with salt and pepper (or Tony’s)

1. Melt butter in a medium size pan 2. Sauté celery and green onion till tender, about 5 minutes 3. Add garlic and sauté till fragrant but not brown, about 1 minute 4. Add Cream of Mushroom soup 5. Add chicken stock and blend till smooth 6. Add hot sauce to taste or 1 tbs. hot wing sauce and seasonings (see notes below) 7. Let simmer for 10 minutes till ﬂavors are all combined. Taste to check seasoning 8. Add shrimp and let simmer till shrimp turn pink, about 5 minutes. Do not overcook or they will become very tough 9. Serve over hot grits NOTES: - This is a very basic Shrimp Etouffee recipe. It can also be served over rice or pasta. - As for the hot sauce in this recipe, I do keep it on hand but I don’t generally use it in my recipes. I feel it sometimes overpowers the other ingredients. - Years ago, I discovered “Louisiana Supreme” Chicken Wing Sauce. (This is one of my big secrets I’m sharing here...) I have an addiction to this stuff and tend to put it in everything in place of traditional hot sauce. It has a little more subtle ﬂavor. I only use this brand. You can get it at Dollar Tree, Big Lots and most groceries for a buck.

1. Melt butter in pan 2. Add green onions and celery. Cook till tender, about 5 minutes 3. Add garlic and cook till fragrant, about one minute 4. Add soup and combine till creamy 5. Add chicken stock and mix well 6. Add seasoning and hot wing sauce. Simmer about 10 minutes to let flavors all come together 7. The crawfish are already cooked, so add them last and simmer for a minute 8. Put 2 slices of fried eggplant on a plate and spoon about ¼ cup of crawfish mixture on top NOTES: - The Shrimp recipe and Crawfish topping are basically the same. Again they are very basic Etouffee recipes, without bell pepper. - The Crawfish topping can also be served over rice or toasted garlic bread. I welcome your feedback! If you have any recipe requests, please feel free to email me at: LoriGomezArt@charter.net

- Here’s a bonus for you - mix equal parts melted butter and hot wing sauce. Then dip your popcorn in it. It’s one of my favorite snacks.

These two paintings are great representations of south Louisiana's abundant water wildlife. From the local bayous, to the world's largest swamp, our beautiful Lake Pontchartrain and on to the Gulf, the vibrant and delicious bounties of our water ways makes Louisiana the seafood capital of the nation.

The next recipe, “Fried Eggplant and Crawﬁsh”, I had when I was participating in an art show at The Swamp Festival at Audubon Zoo several years ago. It was so good that I felt I needed to ﬁgure it out so that I could make it whenever I had a craving for it.

Fried Eggplant with Crawfish 1 large eggplant 4 eggs beaten 2 tbsp. water 1 tbsp. hot wing sauce or hot sauce to taste 2 cups All-Purpose flour Salt and Pepper 2 cups of Italian Bread Crumbs or Panko Bread Crumbs 3 shallow bowls Peanut oil for frying 1. In the first bowl, mix flour and seasoning 2. In the second bowl, whisk together eggs, water and hot wing sauce 3. In the third bowl, put your bread crumbs 4. Peel and slice the eggplant into ¼ inch slices 5. Heat oil to 350 degrees 6. Dip eggplant into flour, then egg, then into bread crumbs. This technique ensures a crispy coating 7. Fry about 1 minute on each side or until golden brown. You may need to lower the heat a little as you go if you see it getting too hot 8. Set fried eggplant on a rack till ready to serve

You can enjoy more of Lori’s art on facebook or by visiting: www.LoriGomezArt.com

Making ₵ents

of your money

When you need a money lifeline, wi ll it be there? If you are a long-time reader of this magazine, you might recall that the original version of the article you are about to read appeared in this column several years ago, but I hope you’ll read it again. In fact, I frequently reread the original article myself, because it reminds me about the importance of the work that Andy, Chris, Steve, Robin, and I do here at Pontchartrain Investment Management, and how we add real and lasting value to the lives of our clients and their families.

T H N T I E T W E

Because we are ﬁnancial advisors, people mainly come to us to build wealth, but we don’t stop there. Our job – in fact, what sets us apart from other advisors – is to also help our clients make a realistic and honest assessment of their readiness to withstand the unexpected events that most families will face sooner or later. A disability – a time when no money from a paycheck is coming through your door – is one of them. The ability to earn an income is what drives survival, let alone wealth accumulation,

Arts Evening 2014

Y S A R V E R A N I

Join Us for

OPEN HOUSE TOW N E C OLD E

SLID ELL

ges. ny Brid y ” by Ken eum of Art.” “Har mon ans Mus Artw ork: New Orle Affa irs. from the Pub lic ographs, ural & of Cult Fair Phot artm ent t’s 1984 World’s ll’s Dep of Slide Mann Paile ua City the er: Josh uce d by to Rememb nt is prod “A Fair This eve junction with con Held in

M ARCH

22, 2014

HI STO RI

SATURDAY MARCH 22 5PM - 9PM Food and Refreshments! Come Join the FUN!!!

INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT 2242 Carey St. Olde Towne, Slidell, LA

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Investment Services • Annuities • Retirement Planning

Life, Disability, and Long Term Care Insurance

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC.

by Mike Rich

for most of us. If that ability goes away – and you’ll read below how it almost happened to my family when I was growing up – all the wealth-building in the world could go up in smoke, and might never be recovered. I don’t ever want that to happen to our clients. Now for my story: For most of his working life, my dad was a self-employed housepainter. A child of the Great Depression, he never had the chance to attend high school, but he wasn’t afraid to work, and I never knew him to not have a job. Oftentimes, he worked seven days a week. I remember seeing him go off to work early many mornings in his white painter’s pants. For several years, he worked on jobs in the Chicago Loop and rode the Illinois Central commuter train from our suburban home. He used to joke that he sat with “the big executives” and carried a brief case just like they did, except he called it his “grip”, the leather satchel in which he stored his brushes, rollers, and other tools. We didn’t think his job was particularly dangerous but, when I was about nine years old, my dad was injured on a job. A scaffold he and another painter were working on collapsed because it wasn’t anchored properly. My dad fell ten feet to the ground and broke the fourth lumbar vertebra in his back. It was during the summer, and I remember like it was yesterday when the call came from the hospital. He ended up in a full upper-body cast, and needed six months of recovery time. My mom didn’t work outside the home, so my dad’s disability could have meant six months of no income for our family. Fortunately, he owned a disability income policy that his “insurance man” (that’s what we called the guy) had sold him years before. It paid $50 dollars a week. That might not sound like much today, but this was 1960. Gasoline was 31 cents a gallon, a pound of hamburger was 45 cents, and the monthly note on our house was $54. Be that as it may, my dad’s house painting income had disappeared, so that $50 disability check became our lifeline.

VOTE! SAT. APRIL 5TH

I recall that the check came in the mail like clockwork every Friday morning. Then my mom, who didn’t drive, would get a ride to the bank from a neighbor or my grandfather and deposit the money in her checking account. The system worked, and our little family – my dad, my mom, my brother and sister, and I – rode out those six months with the luxury of a regular, albeit small, paycheck.

Early Voting March 22 - 29

Councilman D istri

RE-ELECT

Except, one Friday, the check didn’t come. That hadn’t happened before, so my mom called the insurance company to find out where our check was. “Don’t worry,” the customer service rep said, “we mailed the check on time. You’ll probably get it on Saturday.” I was only nine years old, but old enough to notice the concern between my parents. “The lady said it’ll come on Saturday,” my dad reassured my mom. “We’ll be fine.” But, my dad was wrong. The check didn’t come on Saturday, and even a little kid like me could feel their sense of panic. We didn’t have any money, and our family was in trouble. I don’t remember much else about that weekend, but I do remember Monday, when the check finally arrived. The look of relief on the faces of my mom and dad is something I’ll never forget.

I don’t care if you’re a doctor, lawyer, Indian chief, or housepainter, no one is immune to the nightmare of not having money when it’s needed. Every family needs ﬁnancial security to get though unexpected life events, whether it’s a disability, a premature death, or some other disaster. I’m glad – and proud – that my dad was prepared, and I’ll never forget the money on which our family pinned its every hope for six, long months – our $50 a week lifeline. Unless you have rich (and generous) relatives, no one is likely to throw you a ﬁnancial rope when you need it most, and they’re probably not going to give you retirement money, either. You have to make a lifeline for yourself. If you don’t have one, or aren’t sure yours will work when you need it, call us, and we’ll help.

lican

SLIDELL CITY COUNCILMAN District F

My dad’s disability check was never late again, and we survived that difﬁcult time. He made a full recovery, went back to work, and retired at age 65. Despite never earning more than a housepainter’s wages, he and my mom paid off their home, put three kids through college, and enjoyed a comfortable and healthy retirement of dinners out, travel, ten Mardi Gras down here to escape those bitter Chicago winters, and the blessings of six grandchildren. My parents are both gone now, but they gave three kids a very good life, and I am forever grateful for their love and care.

sy of oto Cour te

PERSONAL

raphy

Married to Peggy Fuller Newcomb for 26 years. 3 children, all raised in Slidell and District F. Employed at Slidell High as a Math teacher & Coach.

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Michael Ca

An experienced and energetic leader, Jay remains committed to working with administration, council members, and constituents to do his best to help achieve your goals.

EDUCATION

BS - Math Education - LA Tech. University, 1988.

Do you have an emergency fund, life and disability insurance to protect your family, and a realistic investment plan to get you to a comfortable and digniﬁed ﬁnancial future? My dad did, even though he lacked a high school education and never made more than $19,000 a year. Are you building a plan for a guaranteed income stream that will last as long as you do? Do you have a will, power of attorney, and living will to ensure that your family members don’t have to make potentially heart-wrenching decisions for you? Have you made plans for your care when you’re old and can’t take care of yourself? Do you know how you’ll pay for it? Or, have you left everything to chance? If you have, does your family know it, and do they know what misery the future might hold for them because you haven’t “gotten around to it”?

ct F Repub

ACCOMPLISHMENTS Communications

Built e-mail group open to anyone to recieve agendas, storm updates, federal & state government info., etc.

Capital Outlay

Reconstruction of Audubon Dr., lift stations rehabbed, prompt diagnosis and solutions of infrastrucure issues.

Neighborhoods

Facilitated home owners with FEMA/GOHSEP home elevation grants.

Budget

Rolled back property taxes working positively with Mayor & Council. Voted against reducing funding to SPD.

985-605-5066

INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT

2242 Carey St. Olde Towne, Slidell, LA

CONTACT

985-649-9468 (Home) 985-960-7988 (Work) reelectjaynewcomb@bellsouth.net 139 Melody Lane Slidell, LA 70458

Securities and Advisory Services are offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor. Member FINRA, SIPC. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide speciﬁc advice or recommendations for any individual.

Editor’s Note: On April 5, 2014, Slidell voters will have their voices heard when we head to the polls for the Slidell City Council and Parish Coroner elections. The recent expansion of the Freamaux area has made us all realize the important role our council has in the growth and prosperity of our city. Contrasting this positive impact on our community was the black eye our parish received after the year-long investigation, and eventual conviction, of our Coroner. Because we strive to maintain an unbiased and entertaining format, Slidell Magazine has done a good job of steering away from politics. (We dipped our toe in the political pool in our first year and found the water wayyy too hot.) Our magazine’s motto is “Keep it Fresh, Keep it Positive”. Oftentimes, however, politics and ‘positive’ can be dichotomous.

AT-LARGE LANDON CUSIMANO I have represented Slidell as a Councilman At Large since 2007 and would like to continue to do so, therefore I am seeking another term. Prior to that, I represented council District C from 1998-2006. I am currently serving as the Council President and have also served as Vice President of the Council. I developed my interest in serving the community from my grandfather, Frank Cusimano, Sr. who was Mayor of Slidell from 1962-1978. He instilled in me to be both honest and keep my integrity as I serve the people of Slidell. I have served on the City Council in both prosperous and challenging economic times. I have had to make some difﬁcult decisions that affect many people. With my past experience and leadership, I will continue to make those tough decisions to ensure that the City of Slidell is ﬁscally sound for years to come. My wife Sheila and I choose to raise our two daughters, Rachel and Brittney, in the same Brugier neighborhood where I was born and raised. I am a sales representative for Momar, Inc. I am a member of Guardians of Slidell History, Order Sons of Italy, Brugier Homeowners Association and Knights of Columbus.

The importance of these elections has caused us to take a fresh and positive look at the candidates. As a city-wide publication, we chose to focus on our city elections, specifically the Council race. In the following pages, you will learn more about the 18 candidates seeking Council seats. Each one was given an opportunity through Slidell Magazine to speak to the Slidell voters, unedited. The only rules we set were: 1. No negative talk about other candidates, and 2. It cannot be more than 200 words. I would like to thank each candidate for their commitment to our beautiful city! Good luck to all of you! Kendra Maness Editor/Publisher

AT-LARGE KIM HARBISON The responsibility of serving as your City’s Councilwoman at Large is a commitment that Kim Harbison takes very seriously. It is reﬂected in her approachability, as she remains accessible to address her constituents’ needs. It’s demonstrated in her responsiveness, as she acts quickly to respond to those needs. And it’s evident in her involvement, as she continues to be an active part of the community, both as a representative of Slidell and as a long time resident. Kim believes in the importance of teamwork and ensuring that the many voices of those she represents are heard, both through her actions and through her dedication. Kim is the recipient of the 2013 Athena Award, given by the East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce, honoring her as “Woman of the Year” for her service and dedication to Slidell. She has also been recognized for her work with many community organizations and has been honored with the Pearl Award for Community Stewardship, Leadership Slidell’s Community Steward Award, and the City of Slidell’s Katrina Angel Award. Kim is humbled and honored to serve her constituents and looks forward to continuing to serve the City of Slidell.

AT-LARGE LIONEL HICKS • Married, Mary Ann Hicks • 2 Children, Sandy Hicks, Lionel J. Hicks, Jr. (deceased) • 3 Grandchildren Education: • Chata Ima High School • Attended Delgado Community College, Tulane University & Loyola University Work History: • Military Veteran • U.S. Coast Guard - 1966-1970 • Proctor & Gamble (Folgers) • Cement Contractor (Self Employed) • Slidell Police Department - 30+ Years Numerous assignments, including, but not limited to: Police Ofﬁcer, School Crossing Guard Supervisor, Records Division Supervisor, Detective Division, Crime Prevention (Neighborhood Watch Coordinator) etc. Began career as a Patrol Ofﬁcer, then Sergeant, Lieutenant, retired as Captain. Served as Patrol Division Commander. • Elected to Slidell City Council - 2006-2014 - District A - 2 terms • Served as Council President • Served as Council Vice-President Accomplishments in District A: • Rebuilt Rufus Viner Center - CDBG Funding (After Katrina) • Sidewalk Project • Street Repairs, Park Place, Lincoln Park, Roosevelt Park & Olde Towne, etc. • Working with Mayor Drennan Administration , Veterans Groups & Slidell Garden Club to improve Veterans Park & Tennis Courts at Sgt. Alfred & Cleveland St.

AT-LARGE BRAD RUMMEL Brad Rummel was taught to give back. His parents taught him the importance of integrity, honesty, and putting others first. It was no surprise that Brad and his brother both went into law enforcement. And it’s no surprise that Brad is running for City Council now, to continue serving. With nearly 30,000 residents, Slidell is Louisiana’s 12th largest city – but its potential for excellence isn’t yet fulfilled. We need better flood protection, better streets, and solutions for the crumbling infrastructure that lies beneath them. We need a Police Department that can continue a tradition of excellence only with proper funding from the City Council. Brad’s commitment has been proven. After leaving full-time law enforcement, he remained a reserve deputy, volunteering to keep our community safe. An officer in the Krewe of Dionysus, he donates his time to promote charitable causes and make Slidell an enjoyable place to live and work. A husband and a father, he knows the value of family. On April 5, 2014, you will vote to choose our leaders. Consider Brad’s dedication, his commitment, and his promise to you. He hasn’t let you down yet, and he’s not about to start.

DISTRICT B SAM ABNEY Citizens of Slidell, It is been my honor to represent you, the people of Slidell and District.B. I would like to be given the opportunity to continue serving you in making Slidell a great place to live. As I prepare for the next four years, if given the opportunity, I will continue to do my best to represent and serve the citizens of Slidell and to achieve my projected goals for the future. Sincerely, Councilman District B Sam W. Abney

DISTRICT A JONATHAN JOHNSON District A is the most historic, most racially diverse, and on the verge of returning to its roots as the most important economic part of Slidell. And, it would be my honor to serve as District A’s Council Member. I am a Slidell native, born at Slidell Memorial in 1973 and I have been married to Jenny Minton Johnson, whose family has been in Slidell for the past 84 years, since 1996. Jenny and I have 3 children: Jordan, Emma and Carson. We have lived most of our lives in District A. I spent my early years with my school-teacher father at Brock Elementary, attended First Baptist Church on Carey Street, rode my bike to the White Kitchen for donuts and then through Greenwood Cemetery to play tennis at the city courts and played most of my Slidell Youth Soccer games at Possum Hollow Park. The heartbeat of Slidell runs through District A and the heartbeat of District A runs through my soul. I have a lifetime’s worth of connection points woven throughout this district and I dearly love this community. I look forward to working with the community of District A through our challenges and on our great opportunities.

DISTRICT C WARREN CROCKETT “Slidell is important to me and has been my home for over 63 years. I have raised my family here and plan to retire here”, said Warren Crockett, a candidate for District C Council. “By being involved in City Government, I can help this community continue to prosper and be what the citizens of Slidell need and expect. This is an opportunity for me to give back to my community the quality of life it has provided my friends and family.” Having previously served on the City Council, I am already familiar with the local governmental processes. Should I be elected, I pledge to have an accessible ofﬁce to ensure that any and all issues for my constituents are answered in a timely fashion. I will continue to be a ﬁscal conservative and promote new economic growth to our area. I ask for your vote and support on April 5.

DISTRICT A GLYNN PICHON I love Slidell! From our inspirational churches and beautiful parks and neighborhoods, to our ﬁrst-class city services and great schools, we have a lot to be proud of. But the thing I love most about this town is the people – strong, resilient people who have invested so much in Slidell. It’s time for leadership to make a bigger investment in its citizens, our greatest asset. As your city councilman, I will be committed to serving you, addressing your needs with diligence, respect and privacy. My experience serving our city as a planning and zoning commissioner and as a community volunteer has prepared me for the role of city councilman. I understand the needs of our citizens and can identify the resources to address those needs. I will work tirelessly with the city administration and you, the public, to develop long term plans that focus on the issues, like ﬂood protection, public safety, economic development, and workforce training and job creation. I will support responsible growth while defending our strong culture of faith, family, and community. I am entering this race to work to bring relief and results to our citizens, and I am asking for your support. Thank you.

DISTRICT C BUDDY LLOYD When I ran for office four years ago, I pledged that I would work to bring back recycling. Recycling returned to the City of Slidell in January 2011 and continues to this day. I consider that to be one of my major accomplishments. I pledged to curb commercial encroachment into residential areas. Through months of negotiations with Slidell Memorial Hospital, a deal was crafted that transferred ownership of 12th Street to the hospital so a new emergency department could be built on a portion of the street. In return, the hospital constructed a fitness park to be used by the residents of the city on property adjacent to residences in Brugier. The park will be around for twenty five years and be maintained by the hospital. Several properties around the hospital were rezoned with restrictions to allow for surface parking and landscaping requirements that exceed code. This provided a buffer between the hospital and the residents allowing expansion for the hospital while affording protection to the residents. While the financial future of Slidell is uncertain, the administration and council have made difficult decisions to put the city in position to weather the storm and continue to provide necessary services.

DISTRICT D

KRISTIE FRAUGHT My goal in running for the City Council is to give back to the community I call home and be a good steward of the citizens’ tax dollars. I have a master’s degree in Community Health and Environmental Science. I graduated from Slidell High School. I have been a resident of Slidell for over 30 years. I am working as a substitute teacher for St. Tammany Parish while getting my teaching certificate. Community Involvement: Graduate 2013 Citizen Community Police Academy A member of the Hermadel/Carolynn Park Resident Association. Executive Director of Northshore Wellness & Swim Foundation Working with Special Needs Children. Wolfhsholf Equestrian Center: I developed an Equestrian Studies course for Slidell High School Slidell 4-H Horse Club Instructor. Co-vice president of Our Lady of Lourdes PTC. Senior Health Educator, worked with State and County officials, lobbied for State programs, worked with City Council and Legislators, taught and designed Health Education related actives for children, designed the Business Plans and Health Promotions for the Health Department, worked as a Public Information officer, worked with the Quality Improvement Facilitators, created the Volunteer Program and implemented training course for new recruits, Hurricane Preparedness, and Grant Writing

DISTRICT E SAM CARUSO To the People of District E: I have been blessed by the people of Slidell by your trust and support in allowing me to serve you in public ofﬁce. I have honored that trust and support by serving you well. And, I am asking the people of District E to allow me to continue my public service by electing me to my second term as your Councilman. While we will talk together about many issues before Election Day, for now, please consider these critical qualities that anyone must have to serve you well in elective ofﬁce: Intelligence, Integrity, Knowledge, Relevant knowledge, Experience, Relevant experience, Competence, Caring, Creativity, Connection with the values of the community, Courage to stand alone when necessary, Willingness to compromise when possible, Industriousness, Vision, A sense of balance, A sense of humor, Wisdom No one has all of those qualities in full measure, including me. But I think my years of successful service to the people of Slidell clearly show God has given me enough of all of them to serve you very well. Please vote for me on April 5, 2014. Salvatore A. Caruso, Sr. (Sam) Councilman, District E

SUSIE MORRIS Slidell became my family’s home in 1976. We spent many hours on soccer ﬁelds, dance teams, swim teams, and cheerleading squads. My four children graduated from Slidell High, and so I feel a deep dedication and love for the City of Slidell. I have contributed in numerous ways to my community from PTA to Junior Auxiliary, and various other volunteer organizations. Now I want to be involved in our city government because I see policies that could be improved for businesses and homeowners. I don’t want to just complain about the budget, I want to be a part of positive action in my district and in my city. I have enjoyed talking with my neighbors and hearing their concerns. And yes--I am the other half of the Morris you already know! I am an open-minded, outspoken, free-thinker and I will always have time for my constituents. I have been a proud homeowner in our District D for over 23 years. I recognize our challenges and will listen, take the appropriate action, and get RESULTS for you. I am proud to call Slidell HOME, and I would be honored to have your vote on April 5th. Susie Morris 985-640-3491

DISTRICT E PETE O’CONNELL A business owner in Slidell for many years, Pete O’Connell knows what it takes to build success and what the City needs to do to help it along. Neither a Republican nor a Democrat, Pete isn’t driven by either party or any political machine. His loyalty as a Councilman will be to you, applying conservative principles to give you the same opportunities he has had. Pete wants to continue giving back to the City where he found success – a success built with long hours, dedication, and the determination to overcome obstacles. Pete has the ﬁrst-hand experience to understand both commerce and the dangers of bureaucracy. A business owner for nearly a decade, he knows how damaging over-regulation can be to what Slidell needs most – jobs and commerce. Slidell needs a City Government that works with business, one that makes plans to attract commerce, and one that gives people the independence they need to let families thrive. Slidell needs a clean environment, safe streets, no new taxes, and a Council with independent minds that think ahead. It’s time for a change. It’s time for independence. It’s time for Pete O’Connell to serve you on the City Council.

DISTRICT D VAL VANNEY Retired businessman and resident of Dellwood Subdivision for 48 years. Married to Bonnie Vanney, we have a son Val Vanney, III, married to Dianna and two granddaughters, Victoria and Alexandra. Former member of St. Tammany Homebuilders Association, National and State Homebuilders Association, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Reserve from 1967-1980, Ducks Unlimited, Slidell Chamber of Commerce, Krewe of Perseus and Troy, King of Flora 2000. Member, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Vice-President of Dellwood-Lakeshore Village-Yester Oaks Residents Association, member of Palm Lake Homeowners Association, Committee member of Community Christian Concern’s Annual Wild Game Cook-Off. Former owner of Val Vanney’s Marine, Vanney’s Seafood, and V&A Homes, LLC. Served in the National Guard, received an Honorable Discharge. My main concerns are ﬂood protection in order that we can reduce ﬂood insurance premiums. Economic Development to bring new industry and business to Slidell that residents may work here and earn above minimum wages. Infrastructure assessment of streets and drainage. Transparency in city government that will make it easier for citizens to work with and understand the workings. Most of all, I’m available 24/7. I respectfully ask for your vote, you will not regret it.

DISTRICT E KEITH SEHON • Served as Hospital Corpsman, U.S.N., Honorable discharge, 1975 • Graduated Southern College of Optometry, 1979 • Instructor, Department of Ophthalmology, L.S.U. Eye Center • Director, Sight for Life Program, Eye Surgery Center of Louisiana • Served on Board of Directors, Pinewood Country Club • Past President, Lakewood Lake Owners Association • Two time Reserve Police Officer of the Year, Slidell Police Department (23 years of service) • Private Optometry Practice With difficult times facing our citizens and city, it is important that our elected officials listen to the voters. Today’s elected officials listen only to respond. I will listen so that I may understand. The voters want smaller government. They demand no new or increased taxes. They expect the infrastructure to be maintained, and they want the Police Department to be funded properly in order to continue to provide a safe environment for our families and businesses. Voters on April 5, 2014 have a choice. You can elect Keith Sehon, a fresh new candidate who will listen to you, the voter. It is a privilege to serve, not a career. Vote on April 5, 2014 and let your voice be heard. Keith Sehon Slidell City Council District E Ksehoncampaign2014@att.net

DISTRICT F JAY NEWCOMB

The last four years have been the most fulﬁlling of all my years in this wonderful city. I have had the opportunity to serve the residents of District F as their representative on the Slidell City Council. This has allowed me the ability to give back to the city that has given so much to me and my family. Like all candidates for elected ofﬁce, we make promises and pledges. Reconstructing Audubon Drive, building an email communication group, and rolling back millage rates are a few proud achievements. I ask for your support to serve another term.

Thank you

DISTRICT G BILL BORCHERT, JR.

IRMA RUSSELL

I have lived in Slidell since August of 1991. I have lived here longer than any place else in my 53 years and consider this city my home. It has returned that feeling to me many times over in the last 23 years. I teach math at Slidell High and coached there for many years, which is what brought me to Slidell initially. My wife, Peggy, is a retired Slidell Jr. High teacher and a local realtor. All three of my children were raised in Slidell and are Slidell High graduates.

Vote, Saturday, April 5th.

DISTRICT F

I’m originally from New Orleans. At eighteen, I registered to Vote, and voted for what is best for my community. My law enforcement background includes nine years spent on the streets of the City of New Orleans ﬁghting crime and enhancing the safety of the City. My assignments included District and undercover assignments. I am currently employed as a Code Enforcement Ofﬁcer in the unincorporated areas of St Tammany Parish, enforcing Parish Ordinances and assisting residents with concerns involving Quality of Life standards. I moved to Slidell in 2002. I have been a member of the Slidell Republican Women’s Club, the Slidell Women’s Civic Club and a CASA volunteer. I am an animal enthusiast and have volunteered with different local animal organizations. I consider myself a blessed person and I trust in the Lord. As a Slidell City Councilwoman, I pledge to serve humbly and lead by example, staying focused on the City and the Quality of Life for all of us. I will be easily accessible to the Public, their concerns, and apply their wishes when conducting Council business. Being a Public Servant will be my honor. I will be an employee and a voice of the people who elect me.

Local Christian businessman, Bill Borchert, has been reelected to Slidell City Council to represent District G, which includes the neighborhoods of Country Club, Brookwood, north of I-12, and now with the redistricting, Tanglewood Crossing. Councilman Borchert has been a proven voice of leadership and reason on the City Council for the past several years. His Engineering Degree from La Tech, his business experience and his ability to make decisions that are intelligent and responsible, make him an outstanding representative on our city council. Councilman Borchert has worked with Mayor Drennan’s administration to move Slidell forward, together making the tough decisions needed to keep Slidell safe & ﬁscally sound. He has shown initiative and leadership. He authored the $1.5 million federal grant for the Heritage Park bulkhead repairs and marina project. He was instrumental in making changes to employee retirement healthcare beneﬁts, saving the taxpayers an estimated $40 million in future expenditures. He has led the charge in getting drainage and street projects completed within his district. Bill & his beautiful wife, Laura, have been instrumental in the hugely successful “Pelicans on Parade” project around town. We need more leaders like Bill Borchert on the Slidell City Council.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve the city again. I am honored and proud.

Mayor Freddy Drennan

Dear Citizens, I have been blessed to represent the City of Slidell as Mayor and Chief of Police, and it is an honor to serve you and our great City. Over the years, I have travelled around the country representing this great city. And over the course of traveling, I always meet people who ask me where I’m from. Here’s what I tell them. I live in a city with a strong sense of community. People live together and work together. And we are a great city. We live in a city that has some of the best schools in the state of Louisiana. We have a very low crime rate, thanks to our great, nationally accredited police department. We live in a city that when businesses close for the night, they don’t pull down chain link gates across their doors or have bars across their windows. We live in a city that has a great quality. Slidell provides all the amenities of a great metropolitan area, with the shopping, entertainment and beneﬁts that a big city provides. We live in a city where cultural activities thrive. On any given weekend, there is an abundance of things to do, from free concerts in Heritage Park, art exhibits in area galleries, to festivals in Olde Towne. There is always something to do in Slidell.

We live in a city that has some of the best food in the world. You want it, we have it. We live in a city that has 31 beautiful parks and playgrounds, and it’s not unusual to see children playing or ladies out walking and jogging late at night or early in the morning. We live in a city that’s only 40 minutes away from an international airport, where anyone can fly anywhere around the world. And if aviation is your hobby, Slidell has a full service airport to suit your needs. We live in a city that’s only 40 minutes away from professional sports teams. Who Dat! We live in a city that’s 40 minutes away from the beautiful beaches of the Mississippi Gulf Coast where you can find numerous casinos and the great food and entertainment they provide. We live in a city that has five fresh water rivers and plenty of bayous in our parish. We have access to one of the largest salt water lakes in the United States, and that lake flows into the Gulf of Mexico, which has some of the best fishing in the country. Louisiana is a sportsman’s paradise, and Slidell is no exception. What more could you ask for? I am proud to call Slidell my home. Your mayor,

Freddy Drennan 29

go beyond

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You don’t have to go big, you just have to GO! Touristy, crowded cities too much to deal with? Just go camping. You’ll be removed from ordinary life in ways that airline travel and hotel stays can’t offer. You’re in nature, not just observing it from a window.

camping gear you’ll need, and over night spots in many state parks can cost only about $12 - $15 per night for hookups.

the immediate gratiﬁcation of technology. But most of the time, WIFI connections are a short jaunt from your camp site.

But opportunities to “go big” with a big open road RV, or in campground cabins, can afford luxuries for road warriors with a bigger budget.

Camping trips have always been one of my favorite weekend destinations. Campgrounds and state parks in Louisiana and Mississippi hold memories I’ll never forget.

Camping is only as intense as you want it to be.

Although your site itself may be close quarters, just steps away from the tent ﬂap or camper doorway is the great expanse of nature. Taking those steps from the conﬁnes of the small camper is pretty much what you’re there for.

I remember walking up to a fellow camper’s site in St. Bernard State Park one February day and seeing hundreds of Mardi Gras beads hanging everywhere. Used to seeing beads in trees on parade routes, but not in nature, I asked the campers about their décor. “We’re from Maine,” they explained. “We collect the beads at parades, clean them in the campground washing machine and hang them up to dry. The kids around our neighborhood love getting them when they trick or treat at Halloween.”

“Camping is nature’s way of promoting the motel business.” ~Dave Barry I’m usually a good hotel-room-service, clean-bathroom, ﬁne-restaurant kind of person, but many of my best vacation memories are “roughing it” on camping trips. Camping is a relatively cheap get away – you can borrow or rent most of the 30

by Rose Marie Sand

“Whatever form it takes, camping is earthy, soul enriching and character building, and there can be few such satisfying moments as having your tent pitched and the smoke rising from your campfire as the golden sun sets on the horizon--even if it’s just for a fleeting moment before the rain spoils everything.” ~Pippa Middleton Camping helps keep your feet on the ground in more ways than one. Count on mishaps, rain, equipment malfunctions – and the self confidence you’ll gain from handling all those things! With just a little pioneering spirit you’ll explore, hike and discover hidden gems in small towns you might otherwise miss.

“You have to leave the city of your comfort, and go out into the wilderness of your intuition.” ~Alan Alda Family camping trips necessitate planning and often rethinking what it means to be on vacation. Cell phones often don’t work in nature – but the trade off of hiking and wildlife spotting can more than make up for

I’ve met many people who are full timers – people who chuck it all and take to the road full time. Retired folks do it all the time, but there are also a growing number of young families who live, work and learn on the road. With the advent of online banking, entrepreneurial opportunities to run a web based business, as well as more traditional jobs like teaching or crafting, the idea of calling the road your home is more attractive than ever. Many RV parks hire full time RV’ers to handle reservations or park maintenance, or exchange camping fees for a few hours of service per month.

“Mom, camping is not a date; it’s an endurance test. If you can survive camping with someone, you should marry them on the way home.” ~Yvonne Prinz In all honesty, more than once I’ve been tempted to “vote someone off the island” after spending a few days in conﬁned quarters on a camping trip. But when the inevitable mishaps happen, however, fellow campers can reinforce your faith in human nature.

On our ﬁrst canoe trip, my husband and I struggled to keep the small craft containing food, water, clothing and camera, from overturning in a small rapid. We lost the battle - and the supplies. I remember thinking - if you really want to know if the person you’re dating is the right one, see if you can paddle a canoe together. The rest of our party chipped in with sandwiches, we laughed it off, and actually carried the canoe back to the starting point to go over the rapid again. It was that much fun, and we all passed the test.

“You don’t have to say everything to be a light. Sometimes a fire built on a hill will bring interested people to your campfire.” ~Shannon L. Alder In truth, friendships are often made and solidified at a campground. On a trip to Jellystone Campground in Robert, La when my children were little, we formed a long lasting friendship with nearby campers. We shared dirt bikes and ingredients for ever-loving s’mores. Who wouldn’t make friends over chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers? Somehow it’s true that food always tastes better when it’s cooked outdoors. And that doesn’t always mean grilling burgers. Breads, veggies, cakes – anything you can cook indoors can be cooked in foil packets on a fire. But my best memory of a campground meal has to be the time my Mom brought Hamburger Helper Lasagna, and the tantalizing smell of Italian food greeted me after a hike. Now, that’s living. I must admit I’ve turned out some pretty impressive meals myself in a closet-sized camper kitchen, including a time when I scored free squash and made a stuffed zucchini dish…more about that later.

“Some state and national parks have long waiting lists for camping reservations. When you have to wait a year to sleep next to a tree, something is wrong.” ~George Carlin While “get up and go” spontaneity is the hallmark of daily activities when camping, some preparation is necessary. Most parks do require reservations during peak seasons and a check for current conditions in all rural parks is a must. Get to know the camping in the area by looking on the state park websites – there are great ones in Louisiana and Mississippi. Many have cabins as well as camp sites, and all are short drives from Slidell.

“Travel is the only thing you have that makes you richer.” ~Anonymous Perhaps there’s nowhere more perfect to reﬂect on your place in the world than when in the natural world. Staring into God’s perfect canvas of stars may be a look into the past, but one look at an open road is a look into the future. In 2006, I had the chance to go on the “mother of all camping trips” when I traveled in a 37 foot RV with a group of seven actors and educators ranging in age from 20-56 for a 15 week road tour of a production called “The Voices of Louisiana.” When I left the comfort of my own bed for the rigors of the road and the tight quarters of the crowded RV, I ﬁgured it would either be a recipe for disaster or the trip of a lifetime. It turned out to be both. Our fearless leader, Barry Lemoine, wrote an original production we called “The Voices of Louisiana,” and the plan was to perform 31

in as many venues as we could book, and then make it to the mouth of the Mississippi River in Lake Itasca, Minnesota and drive the Great River Road home, taking time to reflect on the lives we would rebuild when we returned. We called ourselves The Evacuation Theatre Troupe. Four men – Barry Lemoine, Tom Hassinger, Will Schneider and Christian Bordelon – and three women – Katie Betz, Shannon Gildea and myself - set out with a plan to visit most of the states of the Louisiana Purchase, and to put a face to the images of the storm people around the country had only seen on television. The show told the rich history, beauty and culture of our home. We booked shows on the ﬂy, and set up and performed in locations we’d never heard of, much less seen. And then we’d move on to the next town, ﬁnding campgrounds and performance spaces as we traveled.

Some ground rules were established. Sleeping space consisted of air mattresses on the floor, a sofa bed, a table top and bench seats that converted into a bed, and one spacious (seemingly) bedroom. Everyone was assigned a personal space for their stuff and sleeping arrangements were fluid. Each cast member would be responsible for a dinner one night per week and on the night you cooked, you also got to sleep in the bedroom, rotating both the bed and cooking chores. Boy, did we look forward to that night! There began a journey of discovery, both in the real world of state parks, performance spaces and a crowded camper, as well as the internal one of each of us. Along the way, we kept a road journal to let folks back home know of our adventures. Through those road journals, with excerpts from the voices of my troupe mates, I’d like to tell you about some of those places along the journey... COCHETTA, LOUISIANA The first night in a campground was spent in Cochetta, Louisiana, just past Nachitoches, fittingly the oldest city in the Louisiana Purchase territory. The men proudly set up the electricity and water, created a relaxing spot under the awning and began an earnest horseshoe game. But before you could say Grey Water, the awning apparatus fell down and the sewage backed up in the bathroom. So much for planning.

The manual for our rented 37 foot RV we called “Queen Isabella” claimed to sleep six adults comfortably, and detailed the ﬁner points of how to dump “grey water.” I drove, using my Ford truck as the support vehicle (called “The Big Ass Black Truck”), and two pugs named Sachi and Sushi were our ofﬁcial mascots. There’s nothing sweeter than loving on a pug during a long road trip. We booked 17 shows along the way, starting in Abbeyville, Louisiana and ending in St. Paul, Minnesota. Productions in New Orleans and Lacombe helped raised money to get us on our way; our excitement – and our hopes – were high. Yet, so was our apprehension. How would we be up to the task? This entry in Oklahoma by troupe member Christian Bordelon from September 9, 2006, says it all…

“A strange phenomenon has taken place here at Lake Thunderbird. For the past two nights, the ETT has seen…the moon. Not just any moon, ooohh no, a full moon resting in a clear night sky. I see it as sort of an omen, illuminating the darkness surround it for miles and turning the sky into a work of art. I’m surrounded by my friends and we have laughter, respect, creativity, talent, needs and help. We are a work of art. Do I have enough light to see all the things that will be available to me on this tour? How much will I learn? How much will I be able to take back? How much will I miss home? How much will I be missed?” ~ Christian Bordelon

We jerry-rigged the awning quickly with duct tape, and found the sewerage dump place at the campground before night fall…and from then on, we watched the grey water indicators religiously. That night I made a nest on the table-top bed, and fell asleep wondering what would happen next. When I awoke, I realized that I had no idea where I’d left my shoes when I took them off, and that finding them would mean digging under sleeping bodies on the floor. So I gingerly stepped around everyone, and promptly scraped my foot getting out of the camper. Tom greeted me outside with a towel for my now bloody scrape – he’d wisely brought a small tent and slept outside for most of the trip. Tom and I were the elders of the troupe. We realized we needed coffee and the only way to get it was to jump in the truck and find a coffee shop in the nearest city. GPS to the rescue. That’s when I realized that things like shoes aren’t really important; I walked into a café barefoot for the first time since I was a kid. I was young again! That morning established a pattern: Tom and I would rise before the rest of the troupe and head somewhere to find coffee. And I would

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put my shoes, glasses and wallet under the mattress when I went to bed each night.

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“First time on the open road today, making our way to Oklahoma City for our ﬁrst show….only to have to pull over on I-35 for a second round of the awning challenge. Chris and Will climbed on top, secured the awning with duct tape. There’s no end to the team spirit and mutual respect – whether it’s setting up camp, ﬁguring out the intricacies of unfamiliar equipment, or making the most of a meal, everyone pitches in and makes it happen.” ~Barry Lemoine

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McPherson, Kansas welcomed the Evacuation Theatre Troupe with open arms as we had one of their own, Will Schneider. Will and his brother attended McPherson College for the semester after Katrina, and when we walked on campus with him, we felt the love. It was one of the most emotional shows we performed. Our campground in McPherson was actually an RV park/horse farm called Stepaulauki. One dark night, winds and lightening raged outside of the RV as a big storm swept the Kansas plains. The conversations turned to talk of tornado shelters and hurricane shelters and the unspoken conclusion…we live where we live because we choose to, with whatever dangers and devils dwell there. This road, this unkempt little family of ours, is what we chose for the next few weeks. The future lies in its unasked questions, just around the next turn.

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From a book aptly named “1000 Places to Go Before You Die” we learned that you had to try the lamb fries at the Cattleman’s Steakhouse in Oklahoma City – so we did. Once is enough.

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HOME

The campground we found in Norman, Oklahoma was a spacious and achingly beautiful setting. We performed in a cafeteria of Bishop John Carroll K-8 school for 100 students and toured the Oklahoma City Bombing Memorial. Everyone felt a bond with this city and its history of recovery. I have to admit, the memorial displays were a bit much for me to handle so soon after the rubble of Katrina, but a kind museum docent helped me ﬁnd a peaceful place that day.

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This Mother’s Day, bring us your mementos. We’ll frame those precious memories to preserve forever.

Everywhere we could, we found ways to follow the Saints eventful 2006 season, going so far as to rearrange our schedule to find sports bars. We saw the pinnacle of the season – the reopening of the Superdome and the Black & Gold’s return from exile – in Chicago. When Steve Gleason blocked that punt, we were delirious. Tears flowed. And beers. And Kamakazis. And more beers. There was a drink special for everything that happened on the field – the QB loses his helmet - so for the next five minutes, $1 draft! We were rowdy and we passed a good time, mon cher! Sometimes you feel close to home no matter where you are. RED CLOUD, NEBRASKA The little Nebraska town of Red Cloud is the home of author Willa Cather and the Red Cloud Opera House, our next performance space. When we pulled Queen Isabella up to the Sleepy Valley RV park, we knew we’d found a charming home in Red Cloud.

“In a revealing and charming insight into the part of the world, across the street from our campsite a farmer has a wagon full of hundreds of different types of squash. On the wagon is a note that says “Self Serve 10 cents. Put Money in Jar.’ So, the high roller that I am, I dropped a Washington into the jar and Rose

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and I chose two handfuls of fresh veggies that she, with McGyver-like ability, made into a wonderful side dish.” ~ Barry Lemoine STARVED ROCK, ILLINOIS On our morning jaunt to ﬁnd coffee, Tom and I ventured out of the Starved Rock State Park campground on Lake McBride, and followed “Free Coffee” signs to a garage with lots of camping supplies displayed out front. We were greeted by a local in a bathrobe, offering what looked to be cold coffee served in pre-used mugs. Ah, thank you, we’re not coffee drinkers – how much is that bug spray?

place next to Mystic Lake Casino. Although we have come to prefer state parks for their natural beauty, you can’t beat a good casino RV park for amenities like laundry and heated bathrooms. A cool camper next door even gave us firewood and helped us start a fire. This guy was in shirtsleeves while we were bundled up with gloves and hats and layers of clothing. Go figure! LAKE ITASKA, MINNESOTA – The Headwaters of the Mississippi

The sign read “Here 1475 feet above the ocean, the mighty Mississippi begins to ﬂow on its winding way 2552 miles from the Gulf of Mexico.”

But the campground and the lodge are gorgeous, and we found we’d arrived just in time for Octoberfest! Yeah, more beer!

“Late in the evening, a nasty thunderstorm moved into the area. A tree just two camp sites away was toppled, nearby canyons ﬁlled with water, and we awoke to local TV news reports of street ﬂooding, power outages, and school closings. It reminded us of home.” ~Tom Hassinger We worked hard when shows were booked – it takes the whole troupe to set up our scenery, costumes and tech for each show, and then to set up and take down camp on each stop. But we played hard, too. Entertaining both the audiences and ourselves on the road was, perhaps, what we were best at. Thanks to the GPS, we found the Women’s Pioneer Museum in Ponca City, Oklahoma and the Cowboy and Heritage Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City – both great places for these southern actors to have fun. Horseshoe games became a favorite pastime at campgrounds, until the game was left behind somewhere along the road. A horseshoe is simply a type of shoe, right? So we used our own sandals and tennis shoes to toss and the game of “shoe shoe” was invented. Card games, especially Texas Hold ‘Em, was the mainstay of evening entertainment in the camper. One night when we were in a campground with TV reception, Christian rigged up a white sheet and showed “Fargo.” As we were headed to Minnesota, it seemed appropriate. We found Karoke bars and sports bars and all manner of indoor fun. But what I’ll always remember is the scenery, the big sky and the places I hope to return to someday.

“One of the blessings of this trip has been the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty that exists in mid-America. It’s easy to wax poetic about the Rocky Mountains, but there’s abundant beauty as well in the rolling farmlands of Iowa, the cornfields of Nebraska, and the flat plains of Kansas. As for the people we’ve encountered along the way, they’ve been unfailingly friendly and welcoming. Here’s to the goodness of the American heartland!” ~Tom Hassinger ST PAUL, MINNESOTA Here’s what happens when you go day to day, making decisions on the fly about where to stay and when to go…sometimes you see the dregs and then you move on. That was the story today as we made our way to perform at the Great History Theatre in St. Paul, Minnesota. We heard of an RV park a short distance from the state line which turned out to be a funky motel with a few small trailers in the rear parking lot. Our Queen Isabella would never have even fit in the lot, so we moved on and found Dakota Meadows – a pretty cool 34

“There it was! Shallow enough and short enough to cross either by stepping on stones, crossing a wooden plank, or braving the cold water. It was so inspiring to see the quiet, clear and cool headwaters of the Mississipppi and once again be reminded of the connection we all share through this mighty river. The sun shown brightly, and we felt at home again.” ~Shannon Gildea THE GREAT RIVER ROAD It is said that a raindrop falling at the headwaters takes three months to get to the mouth of the Mississippi River at the Gulf of Mexico. We took a little less time than that, but The Evacuation Theatre Troupe meandered home through the Great River Road, visiting Mark Twain and Paul Bunyan territory. We hiked in Perrot State Park in Trempleau, Wisconsin, in frigid temperatures, following a small path with deer tracks. As if the deer knew we would need direction. As we traveled south, we rejoiced at seeing grits on grocery shelves. We remembered the people we met on our travels, looked forward to seeing those we’d left behind, and reflected on the interconnectedness of us all. You don’t have to go big. You just have to go.

We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the ﬁrst time. ~ T. S. Eliott

Sli-Ku Slidell actually had a winter this year…how not-normal was that? Closures, ice, even a little snow; if Sochi can host the Winter Olympics - as warm as it was - then why can’t we host the Iditarod Race here in Slidell? For a large portion of the US, this third month ushers in the promise of spring and warmer weather. I guess that’s why March is Optimism Month. They say to ask a farmer for a favor in March, because the warmer weather gives him optimism for a bumper crop. On the other hand, I have a friend that would advise you to borrow money from a pessimist, because they don’t expect you to pay them back. And speaking of borrowing, the first full week this month is Return Borrowed Books Week. I guess that’s why it is also Read an E-Book Week; saves you the trouble of waiting a whole year for the grace period of returning it to roll around again. The beginning of March sees the end of another Mardi Gras season. If it ends as well as it started this year, it will have been another fantastic year of parades, parties, and fun. It never gets old. But one thing that does get old quick - being put on hold by the IRS hotline every time I call about a tax question. It figures that March is National On-hold Month. Well, I’m sure I will be an unwilling participant once again in this observance. One day I’ll throw in the hat and get my taxes done by a professional. National Procrastination Week takes place March 8-14. The fact that it actually occurs is ironic, right? Well, unless it was supposed to fall in April…of the previous year. The only good thing about procrastination is that it pays dividends immediately. American Crossword Puzzle Weekend will be March 7-9 and I really do love me some crossword puzzles! I do them in pen because that’s how I roll. If you’re jealous, I have a crossword puzzle clue for you as my answer: ACROSS: four letters, ends with “E”: Go fly a _ _ _ _! March winds begin to blow as this month kicks off a 3-month observance, National Kite Months!

I love opposing observances. Dr. Seuss Day happendy-tappendy falls slappendy-exactendy on the 2nd while Grammar Day is on the 4th. Do you think there are some English teachers out there that aren’t fans of a certain cat in a hat? People call author Theodore Geisel a genius just as often as they do Shakespeare. Just so happens that BOTH men have been credited with creating hundreds of words that are now part of the English language lexicon. I think both were a little limited with their vocabulary and just made words up instead. But, I will give Dr. Seuss credit for the colorful artwork. I also love observances that allow me to pander to my readers. Lips Appreciation Day is Sunday, March 16. Anyone wanting to “celebrate” just call me at 1-800-KISS-LEE. To off-set this day, the 18th has been set aside as Awkward Moments Day. Kissing a stranger is one thing, but having to see that co-worker you exchanged an ill-advised kiss with again on Tuesday (after managing to avoid each other all day Monday) is quite another. Either way…CALL ME!! I like to think I am open and fair to groups with beliefs that differ from mine. I’m ok with the 20th being Atheist Pride Day. They deserve a day like everyone else; besides, they do have one thing in common with other religious groups, from a pun point of view. Atheism is a non-prophet organization. I also hear that Atheists are horrible at Algebra because they don’t believe in higher powers. I have an Atheist friend who thought this was funny and wasn’t offended at all. She’s a hairdresser and informed me that Atheists were the most successful stylists during the 80’s because they only believed in Big Bangs.

Hold on to your hat A cross wind blows down the cat Ma’s dog will get that

Until next time…

Lee Kreil