Jefferson Life—May / June 2011

May/June 2011

Grand Isle Beckons Visitors Emergency Operations Center Built to Ensure Continuity of Government Hot Ideas for Summer Entertaining

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Jefferson Life | Summer 2009

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

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Jefferson Life Magazine

2011 www.TheBestofJeff.com JEFFERSON PARISH: It’s time to speak your mind.

We want you, our readers, to decide all that is best in our area as Jefferson Life presents The Best of Jeff. There are seven categories, including people, restaurants and food, nightlife, sports and recreation, services, arts and entertainment and yes, of course, shopping. All votes must be submitted online by May 16, 2011. Results will be featured in our July/August 2011 issue, so vote today.

Atmosphere Bang for the Buck Breakfast Local Coffee Shop French Hole in the Wall Ice Cream Most Romantic New Outdoor Service

Shopping

Bank

Antiques

Car Wash

Bakery

Beer Selection

Childcare

Bargain Shopping

Daiquiri

Hospital

Local Bookstore

Happy Hour

Mechanic Shop

Local Drug Store

Margarita

Hair Salon

Local Garden Center

Place to Go Dancing

Mortgage Lender

Gifts

Place to Listen to Live Music

Mani/Pedi Nail Salon

Local Furniture

Sports Bar

Day Spa

Local Home Decor

Wine List

Photographer

Local Jewelry Store

Pizza

Elementary School (K-8th)

Local Women’s Clothing

Poboys

High School (9th-12th)

Local Men’s Clothing

Power Lunch

Tanning Salon

Local Children’s Clothing

Salads

Wedding Venue

Local Teen Clothing

Seafood

Kid’s Party Venue

Local Shoe Store

Snowball

Florist

Local Sporting Goods

Restaurants/Food Restaurant Overall

Services

Steak Sushi Take Out Thai

Art/Entertainment

Sports/Leisure Bed & Breakfast Place to Run Public Park Camping Spot

People Attorney CPA Chef/Name of Restaurant Chiropractor Dentist Local Artist

Jefferson Life Local Author Place to Buy Fresh Seafood Magazine Local Band Place to Buy Produce Place to Buy Meat

Place to Buy Wine Local Supermarket Place to Buy a King Cake

Local Radio Personality Local TV Personality

2011

Massage Therapist

Sunday Brunch

Small Town Festival

Health Club

Wine List

Parade

Kid’s Summer Camp

Barbecue

Local Theater Group

Tennis Court

Burger

Movie Theater

Place to Picnic

Chinese

Art Gallery

Tourist Attraction

Greek/Lebanese

Charity Event

Swim Club

Italian

Local Radio Station

Golf Course

Bar Overall

Dermatologist

Mexican

Best Public Art Sculpture

Fishing Spot

Bar Food

Cosmetic Surgeon

Local Hardware Store Car Dealership Local Bridal Shop Shopping Center

Nightlife

Personal Trainer Physician Spiritual Leader

Teacher/Name of School Veterinarian Pharmacist/Pharmacy

Photos by Tim Dunford

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Grand Isle Beckons Ensure EOC Building Built to Continuity in Government Hot Summer Trends

ABOUT THE COVER The 400-foot long fishing pier at Grand Isle State Park becons visitors.

Cover photography by Tim Dunford

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Contents

2 Jefferson Life Magazine

2011

May / June 2011

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS

Voices of the Innocent—Court Appointed Special Advocates .................................... 16

COMMUNITY

Ideal Conditions—New Emergency Operations Building Opens in Gretna ......... 6

HEALTH & FITNESS

Ready & Waiting—Grand Isle One Year Later ................................................ 18

Water Falls: Improving the Flood Protection System ...................................... 9

LIFESTYLE & LEISURE Tips for a Safe and Healthy Summer .......... 5

What’s in Your Emergency Bag?............... 17

Best of Jeff Ballot ....................................... 2

Preparation is the Key During Hurricane Season ..................................... 22

Take Note ................................................ 23

Reconnective Healing: Heal Others, Heal Yourself ....................... 20

Sign Up For Emergency Alert System ....... 32

Calendar .................................................. 30 Jefferson Life Magazine

HOME & GARDEN

2011 Advancement Program Expands to Ten Schools.............................................. 32

Even Idols Have Heroes ............................ 21

Roughing It in Style in the Cajun Bahamas Grand Isle Man Camp .............................. 24

Membership Brings Growth to Businesses................................................ 32

Hot Ideas for Summer .............................. 26

Preparing Businesses for Hurricane Season ..................................... 33

CRIME ABATEMENT Logistics Key to the Success of JPSO’s Preparedness Plan .................................... 12 LASER Focus: A look into the JPSO Land, Air Sea Emergency Rescue (LASER) Division ... 14

Summer Salad Odyssey ............................ 29 Assets in Your Own Backyard................... 33

Camp Parapet Helped Defend New Orleans during the Civil War................................. 34 See it All .................................................. 35

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

Summer Camps Appeal to All Interests .... 10

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Live, work

play well in Jefferson

w w w.jefflife.com AMY BOUTON, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Summer Kicks Off It is that time again—time to pick the Best of Jeff. Where’s your favorite place to dine? What about your favorite place to buy meat, or go fishing, or send your children to summer camp? We want to know, so log on to www.jefflife.com for the link to our Best of Jeff nominating ballot and cast your votes. You will be entered to win a prize the minute you do. Voting ends May 16th, so if you have an opinion about the who, what and where in Jefferson Parish, by all means make it known today.

Our calendar is loaded with upcoming events for the whole family in around the parish as school wraps up.

With the end of spring and the start of summer comes the realization that it is also time to prepare ourselves for hurricane

Publisher Joanne Gallinghouse

season. In this issue, we explore the many ways to do it, and the many ways Jefferson Parish and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office have already prepared themselves to serve the citizens should a storm threat arise. Ultimately, it remains up to each and every one of us to make sure our families are ready, whether or not the need arises.

Our calendar is loaded with upcoming events for the whole family in and around the parish as school wraps up. See what is on tap for kids’ recreation in our Summer Camps feature. And bring your Mother’s and Father’s Day soirées to a new level with outdoor decorating and entertaining tips from seasoned professionals.

Here’s to an inactive hurricane season and a safe and active start to summer.

Happy Mother’s Day and Father’s Day to all the parents out there! ◗

Jefferson Life Editorial Board David Andignac, Jefferson Business Council

Jackie Madden, Jefferson Community Foundation

Manuel F. Blanco, Atlantis International, Inc.

Newell Normand, Jefferson Parish Sheriff

Amy Bouton, G&A Publishing

Violet Peters, Jefferson Parish Convention & Visitors Bureau

Kriss Fortunato, Jefferson Parish Public Information Officer

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

Joanne Gallinghouse, G&A Publishing

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Brad Grundmeyer, Jefferson Chamber of Commerce Lucien Gunter, JEDCO Jim Hudson, Omni Bank

Scott Rojas, JEDCO Diane Roussel, Jefferson Parish School Superintendent Stacey Shane-Schott, Jefferson EDGE Jill Willie, G&A Publishing

Associate Publisher Sarah Cottrell Contributing Editor Amy Bouton Associate Editor Jill Willie Art Director Cheryl Feltman Sohn Graphic Designer Holly Watson Web Designer Julie O’Day Account Executive Courtney Romero Administrator Melissa St. André Contributing Writers Donna Betzer, Amy Bouton, Paul Cimino, Mary Curry, Anna Ribbeck, Jill Willie Contributing Photographers Tom Ballantine, Timothy Dunford, Julie O’Day Production Gallinghouse & Associates Inc.

G&A PUBLISHING COMPANY Satellite Office: 3013 20th Street, Ste. A Metairie, LA 70002 Main Office: 409 W. 21st Avenue, Covington, LA 70433 Phone: 800-910-7631, Fax: 985-893-7686 e-mail: editor@jefflife.com www.jefflife.com © 2011 G&A Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher. Views expressed are not necessarily shared by the publisher or staff of this publication.

Please mail comments or submit articles and photographs for Jefferson Lifestyles to the above address. If you wish to be mailed a one year subscription, please send your name and address with $20 for handling.

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Volume 3, Number 3

SUMMERTIME

Tips for a Safe and Healthy Summer

І lifestyle

S

ummer is approaching and the number one health risk during this time for children age 14 and under is unintentional injuries.

90 percent of all injuries can be prevented with proper precautions and supervisions.

The following are some tips for keeping your children safe while they indulge in popular summer activities.

Bicycling and Skating: Make sure your child wears protective gear including a helmet, wrist guards, elbow and kneepads EVERY TIME they bike or skate.

Playground: Choose a playground with mulch, sand or rubber bases to protect from falls.

Swimming: Make sure your child learns how to swim. Never allow children to swim unsupervised.

Home Safety: Keep medicine cabinets locked and cleansers locked or out of reach of young children.

Summer also marks time for family vacations and weekend getaways. Get your children involved in the packing process by putting together a “travel kit” for the car or plane ride. This activity will do more than help keep them busy during the trip; it can also provide them with a project before you even leave the house. You could even have a scavenger hunt where you’d prepare a list of items that can be easily gathered including: Nonfiction and fiction books Paper and crayons Scissors and tape (age appropriate) Deck of cards Water Food and snacks DVD player and movies Car games Maps and guides of your destination The travel kits can be easily adapted into a hurricane kit in the event of an evacuation by adding a few extra sets of clothes and toiletries. ◗

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

Donna Betzer is the President of Healthy Lifestyle Choices (HLC), a non-profit dedicated to empowering youth and their parents with the knowledge and skills to make healthier choices and lead more productive lives.

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І

hurricane preparedness EOC community PARISH GROWTH

Photo by Julie O’Day

І

Written by Jill Willie

Ideal J Conditions

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

New Emergency Operations Building Opens In Gretna

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ust in front of the Jefferson Parish Courthouse and Government Complex sits the parish’s new Emergency Operations and Telecommunications Center. This three-story, raised structure began housing the Emergency Operations Command (EOC) staff in April, and the 911 call center is expected to open in late May. The building was designed and arranged to facilitate operations during a crisis and ensure the continuity of government immediately following. “The lessons learned in the past 10 years—September 11th, Hurricane Katrina and the BP oil spill—helped tremendously in the design of the new building,” said EOC director Raphael, “Ray” Meyers.

The building is self-sufficient, housing back up generators, walk-in refrigerator and cooler, commercial kitchen and the like, and can service hundreds of people during

activation. Aside from the reception area in the front of the building, the first floor is a basic, no-frills bunker that can be used to house equipment and supplies. There is also a direct fuel line that will allow transport of fuel straight from gas trucks into the fuel tank located on the roof.

The second floor is the heart of the EOC. In addition to housing offices for its ten staff members, it is also home to the Department of Public Works’ Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system and personnel. This team monitors the water level of parish canals, pumps and lift stations. “Because this information is critical during flood events and hurricanes, it was more logical to have the SCADA team and its equipment in the building on a full-time basis,” Meyers said.

The majority of the second floor space is dedicated to the actual work that will occur in advance of, during and in the

Photos provided by Jefferson Parish

Larger work areas include the Unified Command Room, where the Parish President, Sheriff, mayors, police chiefs, and other elected officials can remain informed while continuing to work with

Evacuees heading towards buses at Alario Center

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laptops, cell phones and other equipment. quadrants so that people can see network and weather feeds from every vantage point. The room also has a promethean board that can access (and broadcast to the monitors) maps and websites, particularly webEOC, the state’s emergency management coordination website.

During activation, a call center is set up across the hall from the Operations Room, where EOC and administrative personnel to take information and direct it to the ap-

Operations Room during Hurricane Gustav

Continued on page 8 PREVIOUS PAGE: The new EOC building is located in Gretna, at one of the highest points in the Parish. ABOVE: A volunteer undergoes CERT training. RIGHT FROM TOP: Images from Hurricane Gustav include the media room that was used to brief reporters from all media. NEXT: Incorporating lessons from Hurrican Katrina, the evacuation for Gustav went smoothly. NEXT: Pictures of Grand Isle show damage caused by Gustav.

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

aftermath of any emergency. There are offices and small conference rooms set aside for parish officials and administrators should the base of operations be moved to the EOC. According to Meyers, the main purpose of these offices is function.

“From this building, we can process payroll, purchase equipment and maintain the files necessary for the day-to-day operations of government.”

Larger work areas include the Unified Command Room, where the Parish President, Sheriff, mayors, police chiefs, and other elected officials can remain informed while continuing to work with laptops, cell phones and other equipment.

The Operations Room is essentially the “war room,” the center of activity during a crisis. Here, appropriate agencies and departments continually assess information and coordinate their responses. A set of three monitors are set up in four

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community

І PARISH GROWTH Photo by Julie O’Day

According to Hudson, the department averages 1,000 calls per day and this number rises substantially during crisis situations.

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

Continued from page 7

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propriate department representative in the Operations Room. The threat level and type of crisis dictates the specific departments that are assigned to the room.

Additional work rooms include a sound booth for WWL AM/FM as it will broadcast continuously from the EOC throughout the duration of a hurricane, and a media room.

There are a total of 484 beds in four dormitories on the EOC floor and shower facilities, along with a cafeteria that will only be open during activation.

EOC assistant director Charles, “Charlie” Hudson is also serving as the interim director for the Telecommunications Department, which will be housed on the third floor. The department handles all 911 emergency calls.

Call takers will be divided into three work

stations in an open configuration. They will input data and forward information on the emergency to the appropriate responder or responders (EMS, Fire Department and Sheriff’s Office) for dispatch. There are also dormitories on this floor to accommodate the telecommunications team.

According to Hudson, the department averages 1,000 calls per day and this number rises substantially during crisis situations.

The building is connected to both the Harvey and Gretna power grids so that if power goes out on one grid, the building will still have electricity. There are also two transformers, both of which are activated the minute one of the power grids goes down. “These redundancies are another layer of protection,” Meyers said. “Only one transformer is needed to provide electricity to the building, but until the system knows it has a live power grid, they both remain in service. It is just another example that double and triple measures have been taken to ensure the building, and the people inside it, remain operational.” ◗

Get Involved In Disaster Response EOC coordinates the management of all hazards, including weather and hurricane preparedness; hazardous materials; chemical, radiological, and biological crises and transportation disasters.

Residents can get involved in disaster response through the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). The program, under the direction of Jimmy Gautreau. Jr., trains citizens to respond to disasters and take care of themselves until professionals arrive on site. CERT classes are held about four times each year and consists of 20 hours of instruction, usually over a five week period.

Once you are CERT certified, you can join the parish’s Citizens’ Corps to work with with emergency responders by utilizing medical triage, light search and rescue, fire suppression, damage assessments, cribbing and leveraging techniques. They also help with the program’s community outreach efforts.

People with medical training, from administrative personnel to doctors and nurses, can join the Medical Reserve Corps to assist during times of crises.

Volunteers must go through the CERT training before becoming eligible for the Medical Reserve Corps.

Karen Daviss of the Medical Reserve Corps stressed that these volunteer opportunities are not solely for weather events. “There may be times when inoculations need to be given following a chemical spill or treatment needed at the site of a transportation disaster where the Medical Reserve Corps would be utilized,” she said.

Information and applications for both volunteer programs can be found at www.jeffparish.net.

FLOOD PROTECTION

І hurricane preparedness

Photos courtesy of US Army Corps of Engineers (Arthur Belala, photographer).

Water Falls: Improving the Flood Protection System W

250 miles per hour winds. These rooms have automated pumps, communications equipment, backup generators, and supplies that will allow operators to last in the safe room for seven to 10 days.

The Harahan Pump to the River will be completed later this year. The pump will alleviate the flooding threat in Harahan and River Ridge. “Currently, this area is last to drain. Water needs to travel six miles to Elmwood Pump Station, taking about 1 1/2 hours,” Alikhani said. “Once complete, it will become the first area to drain because it will go right into Mississippi River. “ Alikhani said the Jefferson leadership is still pushing the Corps to approve Hoey’s Pump to the River (in order to service the area from Severn Avenue to 17th Street and River Road to Metairie Road). Currently the Hoey Basin is pumped by New Orleans Sewage and Water Board’s Station #6. Not

to Harvey Hurricane Protection Project include a new pumping station and fortified levee.

only will this project help relieve flooding on the Eastbank of Jefferson Parish, it will also reduce capacity at the New Orleans station to help there as well.

The parish itself has begun addressing inadequate drainage infrastructure that is contributing to the area’s flood threat. A recently completed parish wide sub-surface drainage study identified about $1 billion in upgrades to the system. With only $100 million in funding, the parish has prioritized projects by need. In all, between 16-18 neighborhoods have been identified for this round of funding. Designs have been completed and construction will begin in late 2011 or early 2012.

“With all of the improvements we have seen in the last five years, the entire system is more robust,” Alikhani said. “We are now protected better than ever before.” ◗

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

ith the US Army Corps of Engineers committed to completing 100-year flood protection this June, Jefferson Parish is better protected than ever before. And, with an additional $100 million allocated to improve the parish’s drainage infrastructure, flood protection will continue to improve in the years to come.

Kazem Alikhani, PE, Public Works Director for Jefferson Parish, said 100-year flood protection focuses on preventing storm surge and any ensuing flooding in the event of a hurricane. This largest component of the effort includes the raising of levees to heights between 16-17 feet. Levee flood walls (also heightened) have been made more efficient with the installation of sluice gates and butterfly valves to stop back flow from entering protected areas.

Completed projects include the construction on 13 safe rooms, all built to withstand

ABOVE: Images of the newly completed Westwego

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І SUMMER CAMPS

Photo provided by Painting with a Twist

leisure

Summer Camps Appeal to All Interests W

hile summer camps allow parents to continue their weekly work routines when children are out of school, they are far from day-care centers. In addition to general sports camps, there are niche camps that provide opportunities for kids to immerse themselves in specific disciplines.

The following information provides an overview of camp offerings in Jefferson Parish. It is not intended to be a complete list. For camp dates, prices and locations, please contact each facility directly.

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

Sports

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Several area camps focus on sports like soccer, baseball and basketball. Jefferson Parish Recreation Department is offering a baseball camp with Bobby Ledoux, Grace King head baseball coach. In addition to instruction in baseball fundamentals, the camp offers video analysis of players. For basketball fans, the New Orleans Hornets will be hosting a day camp the week of

June 7 at Muss Bertolino Gym. Soccer players who want to hone their skills can join sessions being offered by the Louisiana Fire and the New Orleans Jesters. Football buffs will enjoy the “Become a Saint Football Camp” hosted by former Saints players at Lafreniere Park.

Gymnastics will be featured at the Ivanov’s Gymnastics Academy Camp; volleyball at Metairie Park, and tae kwon do at Moon College. Baseball/softball is highlighted at one session at Spartan Sports Camp hosted by Ecole Classique and young golfers can check their swings at the Stonebridge Golf Club Camps in Gretna.

Visual Arts The UNO Metairie campus will be the site for Artistic Adventure: The World is Your Canvas a hands-on drawing course.

At Painting with a Twist, four separate sessions will focus on different painting genres: self portraits, surrealism, American

artists and cubism. Drawing and painting is incorporated at the Center for Creative Arts Camp, along with art history.

The Country Day Creative Arts Program combines the visual arts with performing arts (theater and puppetry), cooking and creative writing.

Theater And Dance From traditional ballet to hip hop, dance studios on both sides of the river are being offered. The Metropolitan School of Dance Camps include pre-ballet for the youngsters and modern dance, jazz and line dancing for juniors. More advanced ballet dancers many want to try the Giacobbe Intensive Ballet Workshop where international master teachers will serve as guest instructors.

All aspects of stage production are covered in theater and drama camps. At the Imagine Theatre for Children: Broadway Junior Rep in Kenner, children will learn the fields of acting, singing and dancing for

Photo provided by Camp Girl Biz

Photo provided by Camp Girl Biz

Niche camps allow kids to focus on one area such as art (opposite page), fashion, soccer, gymnastics, golf or music (this page).

the stage, culminating in the performance of a Broadway show. Acting components including pantomime, improvisation and auditioning are staples of the Steal the Scene camp at the UNO Metairie campus.

And, the Jefferson Performing Arts Society (JPAS) take on both sides of the river with its Musical Theatre Summer Camps.

From vocals to instruments, the Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts Summer Music Camps includes instruction on percussion instruments, guitar and piano.

More

Jefferson Parish Public School System (JPPSS) and JPRD are both holding camps for the majority of the summer, along with a multitude of private schools and KidCam camps.

Enrollment for JPPSS is limited so contact 504-736-1846 as soon as possible. Additional information for JRPD and KidCam can be found on their websites (jeffparish.net and kidcamcamp.com). ◗

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

Additional camps cover the business of fashion (Camp Girl Biz & Fashion Design), attend Kiddie and Kids’ Colleges (UNO’s Metairie Campus), travel Around the World in 40 Days! (Jefferson Youth Foundation Summer Camp), learn to cook at JPRD Culinary Camp and even train to be a camp ranger at the Barataria Preserve (Junior Ranger Camp).

Because most theme camps span a oneweek period, parents may still need to enroll their children in longer running camps. The

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crime abatement

І HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS

Logistics Key to the Success of JPSO’s Preparedness Plan Written by Jill Willie Photography by Julie O’Day

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

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elevision footage of the days following Hurricane Katrina is replete with images of rescuers plucking people from their rooftops. In many cases, rescue efforts are led by local law enforcement agencies. Because their responsibilities actually increase in the hours and days following a disaster, it is imperative that agencies like the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) have everything in place well before a disaster even strikes.

According to Deputy Chief Paul Rivera, one of the coordinators of the preparedness plan, developing a plan for an organization so large is far from easy. Yet, the plan is exceptional in its simplicity.

The plan calls for the creation of two command posts—one on each side of the Mississippi River—that are both under the direction of Sheriff Newell Normand. Deputy Chief John Thevenot is responsible for all of the forces on the Eastbank of the parish while Deputy Chief Craig Taffaro handles the Westbank. The minute that a storm enters the Gulf of Mexico, the JPSO goes on alert.

The mobilization of forces could begin as early as 50 hours out, depending on the scope of the storm.

In the event of a full-scale evacuation, JPSO officers assist the State Police with contraflow, controlling traffic at key intersections throughout the parish.

“When we activate, our officers begin working 12-hour shifts so that we can take on the added duties of evacuation along with the protection of personal property,” Taffaro said. Even those officers who are not on duty report to predetermined facilities that serve as mini command posts through the storm and its aftermath. Not only are these facilities raised above ground, they also have raised parking structures to accommodate patrol cars, all terrain vehicles (ATVs) and rescue boats. The facilities are also large enough to house cots, bunks and generators that allow officers to be self-sufficient for up to five days.

Is Your Hurricane Evacuation Plan Ready To Be Implemented?

OPPPOSITE PAGE: The newly completed JPSO Second District Station is raised above ground to house officers during times of crisis. THIS PAGE: The Bonnabel Boat House, also raised from the ground, will serve as one of the command posts during a hurricane. Once winds subside to 50 miles per hour, officers begin assessing damage from land and water.

to heed evacuation warnings is so that most of their resources can be spent mitigating damage and protecting property. “Disasters amplify character, both good and bad. If all we have to worry about are the bad guys, we can do that in short order,” he said. “If our residents are safely away from the parish, those left behind are the ones that don’t belong and it is pretty easy at that point to engage them.”

With Hurricane Katrina five years in the past, JPSO has incorporated additional safeguards to protect the public. During both Gustav and Ike, officers worked with pharmacies, pawn shops and gun retailers both in advance of and following the storms to make sure no one could get a hold of controlled substances or illegal weapons.

“Every storm is different and every situation poses a different set of challenges,” Thevenot said. “It is important to note that every disaster situation is a fluid one. Our hurricane preparedness plan provides a strict set of guidelines for us to be able to respond to whatever situation happens.” ◗

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

“We need to make sure our officers are in place and accounted for prior to landfall.

One of the worst things that could happen would be that we would have to rescue our own people,” Thevenot said. “Our officers are here to be part of the solution.”

At 24 hours before landfall, JPSO officers maintain a visible presence by patrolling streets and checking apartment complexes on foot. “Once evacuation is complete and curfew is in effect, we will engage anyone we encounter,” Rivera said.

Offers remain of the streets until conditions deteriorate so much that it is too dangerous to do so. As soon as winds subside to 50 miles per hour after the storm, officers are once again on the streets—assessing damage, assisting with any rescue efforts and maintaining order. JPSO has a variety of assets, including include air boats, small boats, larger boats and high water vehicles that can be mobilized immediately.

Thevenot said that while JPSO is prepared to handle rescue in the aftermath of a storm, the main reason that people are encouraged

At the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, we spend thousands of hours planning our response to a hurricane.

I hope that your hurricane plan, which should include evacuation if necessary, is ready to be implemented. As we all learned during Hurricane Katrina, riding out a storm is not a good idea. If an evacuation order is given for Jefferson Parish, everyone needs to go.

Evacuation plans are an important part of hurricane preparedness—and that entails much more than knowing where you are going. If your evacuation plan calls for staying with friends or relatives, work out the arrangements in detail. If you need special medications for members of your family, keep the list up-to-date and make sure you have enough doses to last a week. Pack copies of important documents in a waterproof container, ready to go with you when you evacuate. Make plans for your pets. There are hundreds of details that are involved.

The more time you have to review your plan, the less likely it will be that you will forget something vital.

Don’t wait until a hurricane is in the Gulf to start planning. Another lesson of Hurricane Katrina is that the sooner you leave, the easier your evacuation will be. The longer you wait to leave, the more traffic you’ll have to contend with.

At the JPSO, we take hurricane preparation, planning and response very seriously.

I’m hoping that you take hurricane planning and evacuation just as seriously as we do. ◗ Sheriff Newell Normand

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crime abatement community

І JPSO LASER DIVISON І PARISH GROWTH

Written by Jill Willie Photography provided by JPSO

LASER Focus: D

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

A look into the JPSO Land, Air Sea Emergency Rescue (LASER) Division

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eactivating bombs, rescuing boaters, capturing fugitives... while these may not all be in a day’s work for the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office LASER team, they are all under its purview. LASER (Land, Air, Sea Emergency Rescue), is one of the most elite forces in the department, with specialized training in search and rescue techniques that utilize a variety of skills and equipment.

As the rescue force for JPSO, LASER officers include helicopter pilots, boat captains, canine handlers and divers—many of whom are trained in more than one area. “A lot of us do double-duty and even triple-duty so that we can most effectively achieve our mission,” said Robert “Bobby” Woods, LASER Commander. “While we don’t always know what our day will bring, we do know we can handle whatever comes our way.”

While the most of us are familiar with the

heroic rescues performed following Hurricane Katrina, there are other more common rescues that receive much less media attention. A few months ago, for instance, LASER officers performed a rescue near the Gulf of Mexico. A man had been fishing with his two young children in the late afternoon when his boat started taking on water. LASER officers were dispatched after he called 911 from his cell phone. Rescuers struggled to find the boat without knowing that it had already capsized. With darkness falling and heat seeking equipment malfunctioning, officers worked with 911 dispatchers and the man’s cell phone company to triangulate their location. Using radar and navigational maps, LASER was able to find the family wearing life vests and floating near a rock jetty.

According to Chief Deputy John Thevenot, who oversees LASER for JPSO, all

These remote controlled techno wizards can travel on both tracks and tires and have the ability to travel into small spaces. They can transmit audio and visual data, manipulate tools, render safe bombs and fire weapons. injured hunters, as well as assist in beach patrols.

The department even has robots that give superheroes a run for their money! These remote controlled techno wizards can travel on both tracks and tires and have the ability to travel into small spaces. They can transmit audio and visual data, manipulate tools, render bombs safe and fire weapons.

“The best thing we can do is minimize danger to our law enforcement personnel.

The robots help in that effort tremendously—especially when it comes to our bomb squad,” Thevenot said. “Ninety-five percent of the time, the robots can go about anywhere. But our officers are ready to step up, knowing the risks and accepting them. I would much rather lose a robot than a person.”

The robots are especially important given that the JPSO is in charge of law enforcement at the Louis Armstrong International Airport. Whenever and wherever a suspicious package is identified, LASER is deployed with its robots in order to detect and disable it. The robots have the ability to work on concourses, jetways and can even go aboard an aircraft and pick through the luggage racks.

LASER officers on the bomb squad perform 16 hours of training per month

with the robots and all of the members of the LASER team perform regular drills to hone their search and rescue techniques.

Similarly, each and every piece of equipment is tested on a weekly basis to ensure maximum performance. “With hurricanes, we have a little bit of notice to make sure things are up and running. But with most of our search and rescue missions, that is not the case. That is why we emphasize running and testing our equipment so that repairs are made at the very moment a problem is identified,” Thevenot said. “When it comes to what we do, time is of the essence.” ◗

OPPOSITE PAGE: JPSO’s LASER division has both a shallow water and deep water fleet that can be used in patrols and rescues in Lake Pontchartrain (pictured).

THIS PAGE: Helicopters (TOP LEFT) and all terrain vehicles (TOP RIGHT) are employed for a variety of uses. BOTTOM: The department’s robot is mainly used as part of LASER’s bomb squad.

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

of the officers involved (including the 911 dispatchers) used a variety of skill sets to identify and rescue the family. “We probably would have been able to find them the next morning in the light of day,” he said. “But, with smart thinking, we were able to save the family from spending an entire night in the water.”

Another recent mission required the use of LASER canine unit to assist the NOPD with capturing a robbery suspect who was hiding in a dense wooded area. (There are seven dual purpose dogs that handle track and secure missions as well as narcotics, while three canines are exclusive to the detection of explosives.)

From highly trained personnel (including dogs) to high tech equipment, everything within LASER serves multiple functions.

Helicopters, which are outfitted with hoists for rescues, conduct patrols, bring firefighters to secluded locations, and transport public officials in the event of a disaster (like during the BP oil spill). There is shallow water fleet for rescues in shallow water, marsh and flooded streets while the deep water fleet patrols waters off Grand Isle, Lafitte and Lake Pontchartrain for people who have fallen overboard and impaired and reckless boaters. All terrain vehicles (ATVs) track through marsh for stranded and

15

crime abatement

І CASA

Voices of the Innocent

Court Appointed Special Advocates

Written By Amy Bouton

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

L

16

ast year, there were 45 children in Louisiana who died as a result of abuse and neglect while in the care of their parents or caregivers, according to Jefferson Parish Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Director, Cynthia Chauvin. “If you see child abuse, CASA is probably the main way to become an agent of change,” she says.

Started in the 1970s by a judge in Seattle, WA who saw a need for children in his courts to have a voice, the CASA program today has nearly 1,000 chapters throughout the United States with approximately 70,000 volunteers.

CASA volunteers are assigned through the judicial system to a child who has been removed from his or her home or is in transition within the system, most often due to abuse or neglect. Their primary goal is to facilitate an expeditious end to the child’s transitional status. CASA’s only focus is on what is in the best interest of the child. CASA volunteers learn everything there is to know about the child, and then craft a plan with specific steps to reunite the child with family or another permanent home. Their recommendations are then presented in court through written reports

and fact-based testimony in front of a judge. “This is possibly the most unique volunteer opportunity in the community because it gives people a window into the child welfare system,” Chauvin says. “The recommended federal timeline for the placement of a child is two years. Because of CASA volunteers, children are more likely to have a permanent home quicker.”

In 2010, children in Jefferson Parish spent on average, 639 days in foster care—almost 100 days below the federal guideline.

“Many times, over the course of these cases, the CASA is the only consistent person in the child’s life.

“When we get recommendations from CASA, we know that it based solely on what is in the best interest of the child,” says Judge Andrea Price Janzen, the Chief Judge of Juvenile Court in Jefferson Parish.

“Many times, over the course of these cases, the CASA is the only consistent person in the child’s life. Foster homes come and go,

case workers come and go, but the CASA remains consistent throughout the entire case.” Chief Judge Janzen adds that the training in Jefferson Parish is second to none. She notes that they are the only CASA in the state run by and with the full backing of the court system.

Dianne Lepree-Williams, CASA Jefferson’s advocate of the year for 2011, has helped place eight children during her three years as a volunteer. “Since I was very young, I have always fought for the plight of the weaker person,” she says. “I decided to work with CASA because there is always a child out there who needs someone to be his voice.” Dianne says some of these children just need someone to listen to them and the time spent each month can be easily integrated into an average person’s schedule. “You might save one child from ending up on the street and bringing harm to others, all because you decided to step up and show them that someone cares.”

“The volunteers are giving of their time, and it is only about the kids and stopping generations of abuse,” Chauvin says.

To become a CASA volunteer, call 504-263-0330. ◗

EMERGENCY SUPPLIES

І health

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SAVE 20% Date _________________________________________ Many people pack an “emergency bag” to on dental services with our dental keep in their car or to take with them on program exclusively for Seniors!! vacation—which is quite smart. I frequently Approved AS IS Approved WITH CHANGES Fax corrections to 985-893-7686 Please Change SEND NEW P get asked by patients and friends as to what or email back to your account executive. contents they should pack in their emerSenior Program gency kit. This is a difficult question to fully answer because so many items are depenCall Kenner location fees.

Requested proofs beyond three will be our subject to production dent on where someone is vacationing.

2400 Veterans Blvd.

However, there are some basic essentials 504-833-3200 which should be a part of everyone’s kit.

This Discount Program is NOT health insurance and does not Coordinate with Other Dental Plans ( 52 53 ) • Bandages with various sizes, steristrips, gauze and gauze roll bandages, gloves and tape, scissors and tweezers Approved AS IS • Hand sanitizer and antiseptic wipes • Instant cold pack • Thermometer Approved WITH CHANGES • Over-the-counter medications such as chewable aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, antacid, Imodium®, Benadryl®, Please Change SEND NEW PROOF Prilosec®, Azo® • Antibacterial ointment and peroxide • After-bite to treat insect stings, hydroColors represented on this proof are anSignature approximation of Colors actual represented printed material. on this proof are an approximation of actual printed material. _____________________________________________ cortisone and This adcream may not be lip usedbalm. without permission from G&A This Publishing. ad mayFailure not be to used acknowledge without permission or return from this proof G&A will Publishing. not alterFailure contract to acknowledge obligations. or return this proof will not For beach vacations or cruises, make sure you have insect repellant, sunscreen, sunDate ________________________________________________ burn treatment, and motion sickness medication. Also bring swimmer’s ear drops.

There are pre-packaged first-aid kits which are available for purchase on-line and at drug stores which contain lots, but not all of the above essentials Another tip: when traveling—don’t forget to pack your health insurance card!

Have a safe and healthy summer! ◗

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May 2011

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Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

East Jefferson After Hours Urgent Care is located at 2215 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie and 708 W. Esplanade Ave. in Kenner.

Call 504-838-3524 or 504-461-9660 or visit www.eastjeffersonafterhours.com.

17

community

І GRAND ISLE

Ready & Waiting—

Written by Amy Bouton

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

Grand Isle One Year Later W

18

ith the first year anniversary of the Deep Water Horizon oil spill now in the past, the community of Grand Isle still remembers the depth of the initial despondency felt by all. But despondent memories will not stop them from preserving this coastal jewel they call home. “After last summer with the devastating oil spill that happened in April 2010, the residents, business owners and fishermen have shown that they are resilient and determined to get our island back to normal,” says Mayor David Camerdelle.

Josie Cheramie, Grand Isle Tourist Commissioner, encourages people to come out and see for themselves. “I am happy to say that the beaches are open and the fishing is great! All of the waters have been reopened by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries,” she notes.

Grand Isle State Park is a place many return to year after year for beachside camping, discoveries of native flora and fauna, and an up close view of the wetlands habitat.

While beachside camping remains closed, park officials urge visitors to take in other natural attractions the park has to offer. The nature trails, campgrounds and the 400-foot long fishing pier with a fish cleaning station are open. According to state officials, you can expect to find nearly 300 species of fish near the pier. The nature trails offer a hands-on exercise in ornithological, dendrological and botanical studies.

Park manager Tamara Augustine hopes to see the beaches open up for camping soon.

“People are really interested in beachside camping,” she says. “We have the last wild beach here on the island. We do not even have swimming back there because of the current. In fact, you have to drive through the wetlands to even get to it. That area was mainly impacted by outside factors. Lots of vegetation was destroyed because of the increased traffic during the cleanup.”

Tamara says restoration efforts on that stretch of secluded beach will begin in earnest sometime in mid-May. The park is looking for volunteers skilled in wetlands work to replace the vegetation that was lost during the oil spill cleanup. She notes that Photos by Tim Dunford

OPPOSITE PAGE: Grand Isle State Park provides a great view of the beaches. THIS PAGE RIGHT: Grand Isle inlet canal is an ideal spot to fish under cold, windy conditions. BELOW: Grand Isle beaches are open for visitors to get an up close view of nature.

nesting birds and other wildlife inhabit the wild beach, so the goal is to leave them undisturbed while planting is underway.

For volunteers without a specialty, there is always a need for beach planting. “This is a great volunteer opportunity, even for children,” Tamara says. “Volunteers simply follow the person guiding the planting and place plants in the ground.”

According to The Nature Conservancy, Grand Isle is the resting place for hundreds and sometimes thousands of migratory birds. When birds experience exhaustion or rough weather conditions during long migrations, the Chenier forest in Grand Isle is a welcome respite as well as a bastion of nourishment for nearly 100 species. A birdwatcher’s paradise, you can expect to see the American white and the brown pelican, several species of herons and egrets, hawks, wrens, sparrows and warblers among many others. Such a breathing space would not be possible without the maritime forest—96 acres of live oak, mulberry and hackberry forest.

The southernmost tip of Jefferson Parish, Grand Isle is the best of both worlds for the avid angler. Whether you prefer to stay nearby in the inlet canal, or head out to the

“I am happy to say that the beaches are open and the fishing is great! All of the waters have been reopened by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.”

Charter Captain Bobby Chouest owner of Bon Chance Charters since 1990, anticipates a great summer for fishing. He notes that last summer, so many of the waterways were closed to fishing—both recreational and commercial, and so the fish population felt no real pressure. He has some bookings already and he is sure people will come back this year. “There are no outside environmental factors right now. Everyone should come on down and enjoy it, because it’s back.”

For nearly three decades Dean Blanchard has owned Dean Blanchard’s Seafood on Grand Isle, and before that he worked with his father and grandfather when they owned the business. Dean admits that this last year has been anything but easy, and that they are still picking up the pieces. “BP really took the wind out of our sails, but we will not let them sink our ship. Perception is the main problem we are having as far as the seafood Continued on page 20

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

Gulf of Mexico where you can fish in depths of up to 90 feet, Grand Isle offers easy access to both. Fishing enthusiasts venturing out in their own vessels as well as those relying on the skills of a seasoned charter boat captain can find bait shops, equipment store and charter fishing services open for business.

Eddie Rispone, owner of three residences on Grand Isle, says he is a so enamored with the island because it is easy to pack up and go there for a getaway. “When you come to Grand Isle, you do not need to pack up all of your groceries and bait and incidentals.

There is a supermarket on the island, and place to buy bait. We don’t even have to cut our days short to rush back for church, because there is a Catholic Church here.”

In addition to the convenience, Eddie also loves the atmosphere, the people and, of course, the fishing. “It is a great place for families with the beach. The people are good here. And any time of the year you come here, you can fish,” he says. “If it is windy or cold you can stay in the inlet canal. During warmer, calmer weather you can go out to the pass, or you can go offshore. Everything is easy here.” He notes that because of last year’s oil spill, he and his wife spread their visits out a little more. “There were so many workers on the beach,” he says. “The business owners were okay, but on occasion they would tell me that they missed having all of the families visit.”

19

LEFT: Visitors and locals alike enjoy sunsets on the horizon.

Continued from page 19 goes, but the seafood is good. I eat shrimp from every catch that comes in here. I test a pound or◗two of every one,” Dean says.

Residents, frequent visitors and the Mayor of Grand Isle are determined to see this barrier island survive, no matter the threat. Infrastructure improvements are currently underway in several places on the island, according to Camerdelle. “LA Hwy 1 is now resurfaced with asphalt and drainage

The Reconnection:

project is now being completed. The town has applied for several grants to beautify our playgrounds both in Chenier and Grand Isle.

The Grand Isle Independent Levee District has received permits to place rocks on the north side of Grand Isle. The levee district was granted federal money for these projects.”

Not so long ago, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office had special beach patrols in place on Grand Isle as part of a unified command with the Jefferson Parish Department

of Homeland Security and Grand Isle officials in response to the oil spill. They completed their duty in January of this year.

Chief Deputy John Thevenot, director of the JPSO command on Grand Isle, says he hopes the next time they return, it will be simply to go fishing.

Many people feel the same way. “This summer we intend to go there (Grand Isle),” says Eddie. “We intend to go to the beach, go fishing and just enjoy ourselves.” The people of Grand Isle are ready and waiting.

“Beaches are open, clean and beautiful, just waiting for our beach goers to come and enjoy. All business owners are strong and eager to get the summer started,” Camerdelle said.

To volunteer for planting in Grand Isle State Park, call 985-787-2559. Visit their facebook page for upcoming planting events. For more information on attractions on Grand Isle, visit www.grand-isle.com ◗

Heal Others, Heal Yourself

Reconnective Healing: ‘Information Medicine’ in the 21st Century

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

Written by Jackie Lapin

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Dr. Eric Pearl has identified a revolutionary healing method so effective that many chronic health conditions and emotional traumas are eliminated, in many cases, virtually immediately. Known internationally as Reconnective Healing, this transformative paradigm in healing has been taught to more than 60,000 people around the world.

It’s the cutting edge of what researchers are calling “Information Medicine,” where scientifically documented frequencies (comprised of energy, light and information) can help restore health and wellbeing. Today, world-renowned scientists William Tiller, PhD, Gary Schwartz, PhD, and Konstantin Korotkov, PhD, are measuring and quantifying why these frequencies are having such an astounding impact.

Dr. Pearl identified the power of Reconnective Healing after his chiropractic patients began reporting that they felt his hands on them—even though he hadn’t physically touched them. They soon reported receiving healings from physical,

emotional and mental conditions that had been crippling their lives. But moreover, he realized that this was a skill he could teach others, regardless of background or professional experience.

Dr. Pearl now travels the world teaching people Reconnective Healing, opening a new avenue for those who have yearned for a career in healthcare or simply desire to help others.

Dr. Pearl’s book, The Reconnection: Heal Others, Heal Yourself, is now published in over 36 languages, and he will offer a Level I/II Reconnective Healing seminar in New Orleans June 3-5.

For Animal and Yoga Enthusiasts, complimentary presentations will be offered on June 2. Introduction to Reconnective Animals at 5:30 p.m. and Reconnective Yoga Workshop at 7:00 p.m. Register for additional Reconnective Yoga Classes June 5, 6 and 7 at 7:00 am.

For more information and to register visit TheReconnection.com or call 323.960.0012.

All seminars and workshops to be held at: Hilton Doubletree, 300 Canal Street, New Orleans LA Special Room Rates Apply To Register call 323-960-0012 or visit www.TheReconnection.com

JOVANY BARETTO

І lifestyle

Even Idols Have Heroes Written by Amy Bouton

S

Prompt Succor School in Westwego. This is where he sang in the school choir and where he met Sister Rita Fantin. “She was very much into the creative mind.”

Jovany admits that he let many opportunities in his youth pass him by. “The music director wanted to teach me to play guitar. I made the bone-headed decision not to take his offer.” He says there were other offers of free lessons—from piano to guitar—and he regrets not taking advantage of them all.

His wish for kids like him, with an artistic gift, is that they take every opportunity that comes their way to hone their gifts, and even create their own.

“Put your foot in every possible avenue.

Join the Glee Club at school. If there isn’t one, start one. If you close yourself off, you will miss things. Try everything. Singing, writing, painting. If we get to these kids early, they will find something they like.”

With a loving family in his corner, Jovany has a core group of people to keep him “level.” His mother encourages thoughtful discernment, while his father prods him to reach for the stars. But when it comes down to it, his younger sister Nancy is his sounding board. “She’s got a wicked ear and a super style. And at the end of the day, she has great decision-making ability.”

Jovany is grateful to all his fans and wants them to know he did his best to represent Harvey, Jefferson Parish, and the Gulf Coast region. His post-Idol life has been full of new ventures, including stints on television, co-writing songs with fellow Idolists and working on an upcoming album with a “Spanglish” twist. He is grateful to American Idol for the experience. “After Idol, I am no longer just a singer. With the experience I gained, I can now say that I am an aspiring artist.” ◗

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

elf-assured humility is a fitting description for Jovany Baretto, the 23-year-old Harvey native who had all of the Gulf region pulling for him in season 10 of American Idol. The young man who literally sang for his college tuition in a traveling ensemble, let his light shine on the national stage.

First, with his New Orleans audition (where he gave J.Lo a peek at his six pack abs) and then on the stages of Hollywood (where he considered himself one of the least experienced). He survived cut after cut in round after round, and sailed past hundreds of hopefuls—all the way into the top 16.

It started when he was merely six years old. Jovany’s mother heard him singing in the shower and she knew instantly that he had a gift. “I had already been singing at school for the girls, and they liked it,” he says. As an elementary school student, he recalls fondly his time at Our Lady of

21

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Change(s) and/or Direct at 504-456-5858 today to ask corrections should be faxed Fax corrections to 985-893-7686 or email backSource to your account executive. about our this FREE SOLAR HOT WATER 985-893-7686, email proof backSYSTEM. to your account executive.PATIO DRUGS Requestedtoproofs beyond threeor will be subject to production fees.

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Replaces your All first proof changes and/or correctionsAdds are free of charge.

Additional changes other than publisher’s are Preparation is theerror Key old hot water heater. subject to a $40 fee. If we don’t hear from you within 48 hours of the date sent, adHurricane will run “as is.”Season Top line of headline www.directsourceweb.com during

rests on this line. Copy box is .2 aligh from botHurricane threats are a stressful time for Account Executive _____________________________________ Authorized Signature _______________________________________________ tom of head box. everyone. With proper preparation, we can Date ________________________________________________lessen the impact that these stressors have our health. As anotherProof hurricane Date ____________________________ Proof #1 Proofon#2 #3season approaches, we should be reminded of Approved AS IS Approved WITH CHANGES Please Change SEND NEW PROOF some helpful hints to ensure our medication therapy will not be interrupted.

Some prescription refills occasionally take more time than others. Be mindful to order prescriptions in a timely manner. This will allow adequate time for doctors’ offices to respond to prescription refill requests, as well as allow pharmacies to properly prepare medication orders.

It is also important to properly store your medications during the entire evacuation process. For medicines that require Colors represented this proof approximation of actual printed material.

Thisonmay leadare toanpotentially refrigeration, purchase a cooler with an This ad may not be used without permission from G&A Publishing. to acknowledge ice obligations. pack to store them en route. A locked dangerous bloodFailure levels of drugs or return this proof will not alter contract storage box is a good idea to store other within the body. medications as the box may serve as a deterrent for criminals looking to illegally Flood Protection obtain prescription medications. Remove the box once you arrive at your destination, so it 28-30 Height of Pump will not be exposed to extreme temperature Station safe rooms changes. And, of course, make sure all your in feet medications are safely stored out of the reach of children.

Other considerations are to have an 54 Pump Stations in updated list of current medications in case a Jefferson Parish doctor visit is necessary during evacuation.

Colors represented on this proof are an approximation of actual printed material.

Also, some doctors may provide an additional 200,000 Cubic Feet Per Second This ad may not be used without permission from G&A Publishing. Failure to acknowledge or return this proof will not alter contract obligations. prescription that may need to be filled in pumping capacity the event of an extended evacuation period. at Western Doser Hurricanes not only affect our homes, they Complex also affect our lives. By including prescription medicines in your home security and 105.7 Miles of Levees evacuation plan, you can lessen the negative impact they can have on both. ◗

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Count on it

2010

22

Patio Drugs is located at 5208 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie. Call 504-889-7070 or visit them on the web at www.patiodrugs.com.

Take Note Gulf Coast Communities Join in Environmental Effort The America’s WETLAND Foundation launched the “Blue Ribbon Resilient Communities: Envisioning the Future of America’s Energy

Robotics Bayou Regional Held at Alario Center

Coast” (BRRC) initiative to help communities from Texas to Florida prepare for

school teams were given six weeks to build

resiliency against storm threats, rising sea

seven states competed at the 2011 FIRST

robots that could perform assigned tasks.

levels, and disasters like the BP oil spill.

(For Inspiration and Recognition of Science

NASA and the John C. Stennis Space Center

The group will conduct public forums in 12

and Technology) Robotics Bayou Regional

are supporters of the event through direct

communities along the region in an effort

event last month. The FIRST competition is

monetary support and the work of judges,

to sustain the ecological, economic and

designed to encourage students to pursue

volunteers and team members.

cultural values of the Gulf Coast communi-

Students from 38 high school teams from

engineering and technology careers. High

ties; reduce risks associated with natural and man-made disasters and vulnerabilities; provide communities the tools to make decisions and plans based on realistic timelines; and empower them to take decisive actions to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future.

Laptops Now Available for Use at Public Libraries Jefferson Parish resi-

Funds Available for Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

dents with valid library cards are able to check out laptop computers for in-house use. The free service can be used for up to two hours for

nity Action Programs (JeffCAP) help people

Centers are located in Avondale, Bridge City,

use in the library. The laptops allow greater

with lower incomes pay their heating/en-

Metairie, Marrero, Gretna, Harvey and Jef-

flexibility for users regarding both comput-

ergy bills. Citizens are encouraged to make

ferson. Contact information is available at

er preference and location. The addition

an appointment with staff at the com-

www.jeffparish.net.

of these 23 new laptops brings the total

munity center in their area for application

number of computers to 342 system-wide.

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

information. Jefferson Parish Community

LIHEAP and the Jefferson Parish Commu-

23

home

І FEATURED HOME

Roughing It in Style in the Cajun Bahamas

Grand Isle Man Camp Written by Amy Bouton Photography by Tim Dunford

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

F

24

or Eddie and Linda Rispone, some of their fondest memories will always be the times spent with family and friends on Grand Isle. This will mark their third summer of hosting friends in their camp Making Memories, set on the bank of the inlet canal. “For me, it is just so much fun to watch people enjoy themselves,” says Eddie. “Especially people who don’t get to do it very often. It is really fun to watch them catch a big fish.”

As “dual citizens” of Baton Rouge and

Grand Isle, Eddie and Linda spend nearly every weekend during the summer on Grand Isle. In the cooler weather, they average just about every other weekend and after fishing, they throw in watching football.

Set in a scenic paradise, their camp (one of three homes they own on the island) was built mostly for friends and family to use and enjoy. The expansive porch extends the length of the home and in the evening, near sunset, it is the ideal shady spot to relax and have a cocktail. And after

a long day of fishing on one of the three boats Eddie docks at the camp year-round, relaxation is usually the order of the day.

The two bay boats are mainly for fishing close by in the bay for “specs” (speckled trout), while the 47-foot Cabo boat will take you offshore into the Gulf of Mexico, where you can snag a blue marlin, like the one hanging over the sofa in the cozy den in the guest quarters. (Eddie’s brother caught that one.)

The camp is divided into a guest quarters,

LEFT: The Making Memories camp sits on Grand Isle’s inlet canal. ABOVE: The Rispones can enjoy an unfettered view of the canal from their full-length back porch. TOP RIGHT: The open floor plan allows for easy entertaining.

BOTTOM RIGHT: The 47-foot Cabo boat can take family and friends offshore.

“There is plenty of room to stretch out here. We built it so that when our children join us they each have their own private space and their kids have their own space.”

the den, utilizing the open floor plan where fish tales of the day are no doubt discussed well into the evening.

But the ambiance and nuances of Grand Isle make it all the more special to the Rispones. “We also have a house on the beach here and another camp as well.

Sometimes, on our way down, we will call Chris Camerdelle (a local) and he will have our order of boiled seafood ready for us to pick up. That way when our guests arrive, they can enjoy fresh local seafood for dinner,” Eddie says.

“One of the finest things about Grand Isle is the Catholic Church. You do not have to leave the island to attend mass,” Eddie says.

“In fact, on our last trip down, Father Mark Tran from Our Lady of the Isles Catholic Church came along on a fishing expedition.

He caught amberjack and wahoo and that night we had fresh sashimi.”

Now that’s living! ◗

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

equipped with three bedrooms, three and one half baths, a kitchen and living area; and a captain’s quarters, housing a bunk room, two full baths and a tackle room. The design allows friends and family to socialize in the open, airy common areas during the day while offering secluded tranquility in the evenings. “There is plenty of room to stretch out here. We built it so that when our children join us they each have their own private space and their kids have their own space. We spend so much wonderful time with our families here, and our friends absolutely love it.”

A fisherman’s fantasy, the camp is outfitted with a 50-foot dock, 450-gallon live well tanks, a cleaning area housing a 900-pound ice machine, a nine-foot cleaning table and even a vacuum food sealer (in case you want to take your catch “to go”). The ample kitchen and the dining area with the family-style dining table flow directly into

25

leisure

І SUMMERTIME

Hot Ideas for Summer Written by Jill Willie

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

T

26

he development of a hurricane preparedness plan is serious business.

However, there is a secondary, unintended benefit to having a plan in place by the start of hurricane season—more time to relax and enjoy the great early summer weather.

From outdoor brunches to casual evening get-togethers by the pool, summer offers an opportunity to spend relaxing, carefree time with family and friends.

Just as fashion changes from season to season and year to year, the same holds true for entertaining. With tips from professional event planners, chefs, decorators and landscapers, we’ve compiled a list of some of the hottest trends for summer.

“Basic” is the buzzword for outdoor gatherings, both in design and menu.

According to the 2011American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Residential Trends Survey, most people are investing in items that create an atmosphere of comfort.

Exterior lighting is the most popular, followed by fire pits and fireplaces.

Bruce Aronson, owner of The Pool & Patio Center in Metairie says he is noticing customers choosing deep seating sofas and club chairs to complete their outdoor living spaces. “The less formal chat (seating) groups, as opposed to dining groups, are becoming more popular. The patio is now called an outdoor room with outdoor carpets and lighting. People enjoy sipping their coffee in the morning and having drinks in the evening in their outdoor room.”

Interestingly, outdoor grills did not make

the top three in the ASLA list, coming in fourth behind dining and seating. That is not to say that cuisine is unimportant—the trend is more toward food “bars” (taco or hot dog bars) where people can customize their own menu selections. According to Rex & Regina, an event planning and social entertaining firm in Washington, DC, hosts are choosing to scale down their menus, focusing instead on offering select gourmet items.

As one of the top five entertaining trends, the company’s website notes that the back-to-basics meals have as much to do with entertaining as with the economy, “As we crawl out of this recession, we find ourselves still wary of anything that screams luxury too loudly. That applies to at-home entertaining as well.” Rex & Regina recom-

they are great as a part of a cocktail bar or as a hostess gift.

Cedric Martin, of Martin Wine Cellar says they see a lot of lighter wines purchased in the summer. “Dry Rosé and Sauvignon Blanc are very popular wines for summertime entertaining. Wines from California, Portugal and France are arriving now and are usually under $15 per bottle.”

While cupcakes have enjoyed a great ride as the dessert of choice for informal gatherings and parties because of the easy to serve nature, they are being replaced by what Rex & Regina dubs the ultimate comfort food— pie. Another hot trend is to apply ease of use to pies by baking a variety of flavors in single-serve pans.

Once you decide what you’ll be serving, you should decide the atmosphere in which you will be serving it. Event decorations can range from colorful outdoor lighting (through the use of tinted flood lights or strings of holiday lights) to colorful tablecloths and hand-made centerpieces. Popular colors for summer include any tone of blue (navy, slate, periwinkle) or orange (apricot and coral). Metal tones such as gold and pewter and neutrals like khaki and eggshell make great accent colors. Do-it-yourself centerpieces can consist of fresh cut flowers from your very own garden or a mix of shells, pebbles and river stones. ◗

The patio is now called an outdoor room with outdoor carpets and lighting. mends incorporating a gourmet hot dog bar into any summer event, offering a variety of beef, pork and turkey hot dogs. Corn relish and feta cheese are several gourmet fixings that can accompany the hot dogs along with down-home favorites like chili and sauerkraut.

Dips, drinks and desserts are also reflecting the move toward a more simplistic entertaining menu. Jim Gordon, president and CEO of Robert Rothschild Farm said, “One of the big trends in entertaining at home right now is a bit of a retro feel.

Consumers are looking for a bit of that classic, back-in-the-day feel when it comes to the products they serve at home.” Toward that end the company is introducing five new dips for summer: Anna Mae’s Wing Dip, Bloody Mary Dip, Blue Cheese & Chive Dip, Mediterranean Dip and Smoky Caesar Dip. While alcoholic beverages are still a part of most adult gatherings, trend spotters are noting that many events are being held in the late afternoon or early evenings in order to cut down on alcohol consumption.

Another option is sangria, which according to Brian Powell, co-founder of Powell & Mahoney beverage company, exhibits a retro feel while offering refreshment on a hot summer day. Powell also notes that gourmet “fixins” are not only popular for menus,

BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF LOUISIANA

In its 2011 National Diabetes Fact Sheet, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 8 percent of the U.S. population is affected by this devastating illness. Diabetes takes such a high toll in both medical costs and human suffering that the team at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana is taking note.

“In the past, the emphasis of insurance has been on great service following the claim,” says Mike Reitz, President and CEO of Blue Cross. “We realized years ago the focus needs to be on prevention. So we’ve become health partners with our members.”

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

Wellness resources to help avoid a DEVASTATING diagnosis

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Founded in 1934 in New Orleans, Blue Cross is the state’s oldest and largest health insurer, providing group and individual health insurance plans, life and disability insurance and group voluntary products to more than 1.3 million Louisianians.

“Whether it is offering assistance to our individual members or companies that want programs to help employees improve their health, we’re here,” Reitz says.

To provide the latest resources directly to policyholders, Blue Cross launched the wellness initiative My Health, My Way. Blue Cross members who visit www.bcbsla.com can take a confidential, 15-minute online Personal Health Assessment (PHA) that helps identify areas of improvement and potential health risks.

“The PHA is one of the cornerstones of our program,” Reitz says. Each member who takes the PHA gets detailed recommendations and priorities for areas to work on first.

The website also offers educational videos, online wellness tools and links to resources.

“People in a prediabetic stage can potentially change their path with appropriate behavior,” Reitz notes. “With 79 million Americans considered prediabetic according to the CDC, that could mean avoiding type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke for millions.”

Almost every Blue Cross policy includes preventive services such as annual physicals, prostate exams or mammograms. Following a physical or doctor’s visit, data such as height, weight and blood pressure can be entered into the PHA for a more accurate assessment.

In addition to My Health, My Way, Blue Cross continues to offer Louisiana 2 Step, a free community health program offering fitness advice, healthy eating tips and a personal virtual coach to encourage people to eat right and move more.

“There is a clear and critical link between wellness and the skyrocketing costs of healthcare in this country,” Reitz says. “We’re here to empower businesses and individuals to know their health status and strive to improve it.”

Blue Cross has implemented a workplace wellness program at its offices and experienced decreased turnover and increased employee satisfaction. In addition, there was a decline in workers’ compensation and disability costs.

One employee discovered she had dangerously high blood pressure during a workplace screening, and her doctor later told her she was days away from having a stroke, which she avoided through proper treatment.

“A good part of My Health, My Way is flexibility. An employer can coordinate programs for their staff, or they can direct them to the website,” Reitz says. “It’s customizable to what the organization can offer and provide.”

He adds, “Over the next few years there is uncertainty as the nation is deliberating updated healthcare regulations. We’ve been here more than 75 years improving the lives of Louisianians. We are trusted advisers to our membership, and we’ll continue to provide appropriate guidance and options as needed.”

President and CEO Mike Reitz

AT A GLANCE Primary product/service: Health insurance Top local executive:

Mike Reitz

No. of local employees:

1,858

Year founded:

1934

Phone: Website:

225.295.3307 www.bcbsla.com

A version of this article originally appeared in the Greater Baton Rouge Business Report’s 2011 Annual Report.

COOKING

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409 W. 21 st Avenue, Covington, LA 70433 985-893-7350 | Fax 985-893-7686

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Proof #1 Proof #2 Summer Salad Odyssey

FINAL

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2 ribs celery, diced For a great meal, follow one of the entrée 2 green onions, diced salads with a fresh fruit and cheese dessert.

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May 2011

Mark changes/corrections clearly. Colors of this proof may

CALENDAR

Every Saturday, rain or shine Gretna Farmer’s Market 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., 301 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna.

Westwego Farmer’s and Fisheries Market 8:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m., 484 Sala Ave., Westwego.

May May 1 Zurich Classic, TPC Louisiana, Avondale, 866-NOLA-TPC, www.zurichgolfclassic.com.

May 1–5 New Orleans Zephyrs vs. Oklahoma City RedHawks Zephyr Field, 6000 Airline Dr., Metairie, 504-734-5155, www.zephyrsbaseball.com.

May 5–7 Scholastic Book Fair, The Pontchartrain Center, Meeting Room 5, 4545 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 504-465-9985, www.pontchartraincenter.com.

May 6–7 Jean Lafitte-America Welders Society Rodeo, Team Lafitte Harbor/C&M Dock and Marina, 4932 Kenal Rd., Lafitte, 504-689-2013, www.teamlafitteharbor.com.

May 7

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MAY/JUNE

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

German May Fest Celebration, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., 301 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna.

May 7

May 13 Festival Fridays featuring Gina Brown, 6:30 p.m.– 10:30 p.m., 1901 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey, 504-348-1747, www.fountainparkcentre.com.

May 13 Jefferson Chamber of Commerce 14th Annual Crawfish Boil, 5:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m., Jefferson Chamber Office Parking Garage, 3421 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, 504-835-3880, www.jeffersonchamber.org.

May 13–15, 20–22, 27–29

Arts & Crafts Festival at May Fest, 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m., 301 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna.

A Chorus Line, 8:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m., Rivertown Repertory Theatre, 325 Minor St., Kenner, 504-468-7231, www.rivertownkenner.com.

May 7

May 14–17

New Orleans Comedy Show at Royal Palm, 7:30 p.m., Royal Palm Restaurant, 1901 Manhattan Blvd., Bldg E, Harvey, 504-644-4100, racheal@5starfpc.com.

New Orleans Zephyrs vs. Tacoma Rainiers, Zephyr Field, 6000 Airline Dr., Metairie, 504-734-5155, www.zephyrsbaseball.com.

May 7

May 17

Concealed Gun Permit class, 8:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m., Four Points by Sheraton, Serendipity III Room, 6401 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 504-835-3880, www.jeffersonchamber.org.

Heath Evans Softball Showdown, Zephyr Field, 6000 Airline Dr., Metairie

May 17

St. Philip Neri Parish May Fair Festival, 10:00 a.m.– 11:00 p.m., 6600 Kawanee Ave., Metairie, 504-887-5535, www.stphilipneri.org.

Jefferson Chamber Business Development and Growth Committee Meeting, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., LSBDC Conference Room, UNO Jefferson Center, 4th Floor, 3330 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, 504-835-3880, www.jeffersonchamber.org.

May 10–13

May 18

New Orleans Zephyrs vs. Salt Lake Bees, Zephyr Field, 6000 Airline Dr., Metairie, 504-734-5155, www.zephyrsbaseball.com.

Jefferson Chamber Membership Committee Meeting, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Atmos Energy, 3616 South I-10 Service Rd., Suite 200, 504-835-3880 or www.jeffersonchamber.org.

May 7

May 13 Jefferson Chamber of Commerce Toastmasters Club Meeting, 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m., The LOPA Building, 3445 N. I-10 Service Rd. W., Suite 300, Metairie, 504-846-6706, claudia.r.smith@xerox.com.

May 25 Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra Lafreniere Park Concert, 6:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m., Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie, 504-838-4389.

May 27 Jefferson Chamber of Commerce Toastmasters Club Meeting, 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m., The LOPA Building, 3445 N. I-10 Service Rd. W., Suite 300, Metairie, 504-846-6706, claudia.r.smith@xerox.com.

May 27–30 New Orleans Zephyrs vs. Albuquerque Isotopes Zephyr Field, 6000 Airline Dr., Metairie, 504-734-5155, www.zephyrsbaseball.com.

June June 2–7 Reconnective Healing Seminars, Reconnective Animal Presentation, Reconnective Yoga Workshop and Yoga classes, Hilton Doubletree, 300 Canal St., New Orleans, 323-960-0012, www.TheReconnection.com.

June 3 14th Annual Save Our Lake & Coast Fishing Rodeo (A part of Back to the Beach Fest), call for times and details, 504-836-2205.

June 3–5 Back to the Beach Festival, 5050 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 504-836-2205, www.saveourlake.org.

June 3–4 Lafitte-Shaw Rodeo, 4932 Kenal Rd., Lafitte, 504-689-2013, www.teamlafitteharbor.com.

June 3–4 OMSA 11th Annual Cajun Tropic Fishing Rodeo Invitational, 2757 LA Hwy 1, Grand Isle, 985-787-2997, www.grand-isle.com.

June 18 New Orleans Comedy Show at Royal Palm, 7:30 p.m., Royal Palm Restaurant, 1901 Manhattan Blvd., Bldg E, Harvey, 504-644-4100, racheal@5starfpc.com.

June 21 Jefferson Chamber Business Development and Growth Committee Meeting, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., LSBDC Conference Room, UNO Jefferson Center, 4th Floor, 3330 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, 504-835-3880, www.jeffersonchamber.org.

June 21–24 New Orleans Zephyrs vs. Round Rock Express, Zephyr Field, 6000 Airline Dr., Metairie, 504-734-5155, www.zephyrsbaseball.com.

June 24

New Orleans Zephyrs vs. Nashville Sounds, Zephyr Field, 6000 Airline Dr., Metairie, 504-734-5155, www.zephyrsbaseball.com.

Jefferson Chamber of Commerce Toastmasters Club Meeting, 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m., The LOPA Building, 3445 N. I-10 Service Rd. W., Suite 300, Metairie, 504-846-6706, claudia.r.smith@xerox.com.

June 9–12

June 25–26

June 4–7

New Orleans Zephyrs vs. Memphis Redbirds, Zephyr Field, 6000 Airline Dr., Metairie, 504-734-5155, www.zephyrsbaseball.com.

Great Southern Gun & Knife Show, The Pontchartrain Center, Pontchartrain Hall A & B, 4545 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 504-465-9985, www.pontchartraincenter.com.

June 10

June 26

Jefferson Chamber of Commerce Toastmasters Club Meeting, 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m., The LOPA Building, 3445 N. I-10 Service Rd. W., Suite 300, Metairie, 504-846-6706, claudia.r.smith@xerox.com.

Have a Jefferson Parish event to promote? Go to www.JeffLife.com and submit your listings and photos online.

Red Stick Fly Fishing Rodeo, LA Hwy. 1, Grand Isle, 985-787-2997, www.grand-isle.com.

June 15

June 17 Festival Fridays featuring Waylon Thibodeaux, 6:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m., 1901 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey, 504-348-1747, www.fountainparkcentre.com.

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

Jefferson Chamber Membership Committee Meeting, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Atmos Energy, 3616 South I-10 Service Rd., Suite 200, 504-835-3880 or www.jeffersonchamber.org.

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community

І

І

community community TECHNOLOGY

ShopJeffersonNow.com is a one-stop shopping and services information website.

JOHN YOUNG, PARISH PRESIDENT

І

DIANE ROUSSEL, JEFFERSON PARISH PUBLIC SCHOOLS 409 W. SUPERINTENDENT

BRAD GRUNDMEYER JEFFERSON CHAMBER OF LACOMMERCE 70433 409 W. 21 st

21 st Avenue, Covington, 985-893-7350 | Fax 985-893-7686

Avenue, Coving 985-893-7350 | Fax 98

TheUp springfor season brings new life and Sign Emergency Advancement Program Membership Brings growth for many Jefferson businesses. As an Your Ad will run AS Your IS Top line of headline Top line of headline Alert System Expands to Ten Schools Growth to Businesses organization built on enhancing the busi-

Ad will r

rests on this line. Copy rests on this line. Copy unless your respond to your Account unless Executive your respond to your ness community, the Chamber provides is .2 align from bot- School is .2 aligh from botAs box hurricane season approaches, I Thebox Jefferson Parish Public with corrections by The spring season brings new life and with correction its members with tools to successfully and tom of add headseven box. schools to its tom ofyou head box. encourage to subscribe to JPAlert, the System will growth for many Jefferson businesses.

As an continually grow their business. parish emergency alert system, that allows Teacher Advancement Program (TAP) organization built on enhancing the busiWe understand the importance of the our citizens to immediately receive inforSystem for the 2011-2012 school year, ness community, the Chamber provides tangible results members get from using the mation regarding emergencies. The alert bringing its total of TAP schools to ten. its members with tools to successfully Chamber’s products and services. These Fax corrections to 985-893-7686 Fax and corrections to 98 system is capable of contacting subscribers The TAP System is designed to strengthcontinually grow their business. results are considered the Chamber’s Value or email back to your account executive. or email back to your acc via an email account, home phone, cell en teachers’ instructional abilities with the We understand the importance of the Proposition. phone, pager, smartphone or handheld goal of increasing student achievement and tangible results members get from using the The Jefferson Chamber’s Value devices. continued school growth through profesRequested proofs beyond three will be subject to production fees.

Requested proofs beyond three will be Chamber’s products and services.

These Proposition to its members is the following: When we have urgent situations whether sional development, teacher assessments results are considered the Chamber’s Value Be the leading advocate for business in it is threatening weather, road closures, and pay for performance.

Proposition. the community and region evacuation or shelter information, or other During Year One of the TAP System, The Jefferson Chamber’s Value Proposition Be a trusted representative for membertypes of emergencies, we can provide mentor and master teachers lead the facto its members is the following: ship and the business community citizens immediate access to this informaulty through research-based instructional • Be the leading advocate for business in the Be actively engaged with members and tion. This is another way we are working strategies as well as provide in-classroom community and region the community to promote and transform Approved AS IS Approved AS IS to ensure our residents are safe and fully support. In order to earn their TAP com• Be a trusted representative for membership education and raise the quality of life informed. pensation, teachers must pass four rigorand the business community Be an innovative and indispensable The system acts in real-time and will proous evaluations looking at their classroom • Be actively engaged with members and the Approved WITH CHANGES Approved WITH CH resource geared to find solutions to help vide subscribers with continuous updates performance, the students’ classroom level community to promote and transform edumembers grow their business and instructions on where to go, what to achievement and school level achievement. cation and raise the quality of life Be a leader in fostering collaboration and do, or what not to do, and who to contact Jefferson has participated in TAP since Please Change SEND NEW • Be an innovative and PROOF indispensable Please Change SEN planning in Jefferson and the region an emergency. Notifications will be 2003 with its first school, Hazel Park, folfirst time since during Hurricane resource geared to find solutions to help Our membership is also increasing value sent to cell phones via text messages. lowed by Hart and Woodland West. In members grow their business 2005 that the statethrough their outstanding accomplishBecause additional instructions may folorder to increase TAP, the district applied Signature _____________________________________________ Signature ________________________ • Be a leader in fostering collaboration and ments in business. In fact, Chamber nomied the recognized or low throughout the emergency situation, we for a Teacher Incentive Fund (TIF) grant planning in Jefferson and the region nated business won all eight state-wide growth banners. encourage our citizens to keep their phone from the US Department of Education and Our membership is also increasing value Small Business Administration Champion or mobile device near them during any criwas awarded a five-year, million grant.

Date$15 ________________________________________________ Dateaccomplishments ___________________________ through their outstanding Awards. One member went on to win the sis situation.

The TIF funds support programs designed in business. In fact, Chamber nominated busiSBA’s National Family-Owned Business JPAlert is a free service, however, wireto develop and implement performanceness won all eight state-wide Small Business of the Year, and yet another won the U.S. less carriers may charge fees to receive based teacher and principal compensation Administration Champion Awards. One Chamber’s National Community Excellence these messages. Subscribers may add systems in high-need schools. These funds member went on to win the SBA’s National Award. two devices and two email addresses to a allowed the district to select the first seven Family-Owned Business of the Year, and yet The Chamber is proud to support the JPAlert account and alerts can be sent to all high-need schools to participate in this another won the U.S. Chamber’s National exceptional businesses of our community. devices listed. pre-TAP year.

Community Excellence Award.

Founded in 1997, the Chamber’s mission You can register for this service at www.

The seven Year One TAP schools are Founded in 1997, the Chamber’s mishas remained constant—to work for the jpalert.com. If you encounter any problems, Clancy, Homedale, McDonough 26, Pitre, sion has remained constant—to work for the advancement of the business community; please contact Jefferson Parish Emergency Thibodeaux, Woodmere and Worley. advancement of the business community; to enhance the economic, civic and culManagement at 504-349-5360 or via email There are also seven pre-TAP schools: to enhance the economic, civic and cultural tural environment; and to improve the at jpeoc@jeffparish.net. ◗ Bonnabel, Ellis, Harahan, Janet, King, environment; and to improve the quality of quality of life in our community. Chamber Riverdale High and Roosevelt. ◗ life in our community. Chamber Membership Membership means business! means business! ◗

5:00 pm | Friday, April 5:0015pm | Monda

Proof #1

Proof #2

FINAL Proof #1

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

May2011 2011 May

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Proof #2

bbeck

PREPAREDNESS

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community community

GARDENING

І home

MANUEL F. BLANCO, JEDCO CHAIRMAN

Preparing Businesses for Hurricane Season

Assets in Your Own Backyard Some of the greatest assets in our communities are our trees. Trees not only produce beautiful foliage and flowers, they also bear fruit for the delight of all in the animal world (that includes you and me).

Taking care of our trees is essential to their preservation—this is especially true when hurricane season is bearing down on us.

Here are some tips that may just help all your beautiful, leafy friends weather the next storm: Keep them pruned! Remove dead timber, but also remove branches that are too long or make the tree loose its symmetry.

Fertilize at least once a year. Check with your local nursery for information on the proper type of fertilizer for the species you have.

Trees are also a great way to celebrate a birth or commemorate a life.

Water, water, water! A tree will send roots to the surface if watered improperly.

Watering must be done slowly and deeply to promote the growth of deep-seated roots.

Shallow rooted trees are often the ones you see down after a storm.

Plan before planting. Stay away from utility lines, do not block traffic sign visibility, leave ample room around transformers and

do not block the view from a window with a tree.

Trees do not “play well” near flower gardens. Leave ample room between the two.

Be cognizant. Plan for how large the tree will eventually become—do not encroach upon a neighbor’s yard.

Planting trees shows that you care about your environment and your future. Not only do trees absorb surface water, they also are the greatest filters of air pollution. Through their process of photosynthesis, trees take in atmospheric carbon dioxide and replace it with oxygen. Doesn’t that make you breathe easier and want to run outside and plant a new tree? Information about trees or any answers to your questions are always available at www.lsuagcenter.com.

Trees are also a great way to celebrate a birth or commemorate a life. Creating an asset has never been so quick and so easy. By investing a little time each day, you will be overly rewarded with beauty, fresh air and maybe even some fresh-squeezed orange juice. Happy arboring! ◗

Anna Ribbeck has a love for all things green. She is also a certified Louisiana Master Gardener.

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

As part of our mission to help our businesses thrive, JEDCO will be hosting a Hurricane Preparedness Workshop on Tuesday, May 24. The workshop will provide practical information to help businesses prepare for and recover from hurricanes and other disasters.

Businesses can learn about exit and reentry procedures in order to help develop specific evacuation timelines for their staff.

They will also be able to receive assistance for registering for re-entry placards through Jefferson Parish Emergency Management.

Moreover, we will provide helpful information to create business continuity during a crisis and throughout the entire disaster recovery process. A disaster for a business could be as simple as a power outage or as complex as major building damage. No matter the problem, JEDCO is here to assist organizations in getting their business running quicker with fewer interruptions.

The workshop will be held from 3:00–5:00 p.m. at the East Jefferson Regional Library.

Additional information and registration forms are available at www.jedco.org.

Businesses and visitors alike also will be able to learn how to prepare their homes, families and businesses for an approaching hurricane and how to prepare for evacuation at the Hurricane Prep Rally, May 21st from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at Lafreniere Park. Visitors will see first-hand the dangers of a downed live power line, interactive demonstrations, and get information on accessing relief services in the event of a disaster.

These events are free and open to the public and will provide you with up-todate information to help with your own preparedness plan--both professionally and personally. ◗

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community

І HISTORY

Metairie Served as Stronghold During Civil War Camp Parapet Helped Defend City of New Orleans

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

A

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t the beginning of the Civil War in 1861, Jefferson Parish possessed strategic importance as the logical location for the northern defense of the City of New Orleans. Therefore, the Confederacy built an extensive military fortification to include a line of earthworks extending from the Mississippi River, north along present-day Causeway Boulevard, ending near 45th Street in Metairie. It was used

by Confederate forces until New Orleans surrendered to the Federals in April 1862.

Four months later, following the Battle of Baton Rouge, “yankee” troops converged on Camp Parapet where they remained at the site until the war ended in 1865.

The camp consisted of a main redoubt, a blacksmith shop, a grocery, headquarters, contrabands quarters, campgrounds, a camp cemetery, and a camp of heavy artillery.

Unfortunately, all that remains of the extensive site today is the small powder magazine where supplies of ammunition were once stored. The existing little brick structure, camouflaged by a thick earthen embankment, is located at the end of Arlington Way, just east of Causeway Boulevard, between Jefferson Highway and the Mississippi River.

The Camp Parapet Powder Magazine was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977 and restored by the Jefferson Parish Historical Commission in 1982. That same year, a highway marker identifying the southernmost segment of the fortification was erected near the extant powder magazine. The marker is currently located in front of the McDonald’s on Jefferson Highway near its intersection with Causeway Boulevard.

After being closed for more than 25 years, the powder magazine reopened in

2007—but for one day only. Each fall, the powder magazine opens for one half-day.

It is scheduled to open again this year on November 12, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. ◗

After being closed for more than 25 years, the powder magazine reopened in 2007—but for one day only.

Dr. Mary G. Curry is the chair of the Jefferson Parish Historical Commission, vice president and archivist of the Jefferson Historical Society of Louisiana, and the past president and current historian for the Gretna Historical Society.

Southeast Louisiana native Brad Alphonso has gone from Hurricane Katrina to the runways of Paris. Pictured is Brad from his latest runway show in Paris with Jean Paul Gaultier.

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(From Left) Lauren Rodriguez as Jean and Kara Larson as Stranger in a scene from Dead Man’s Cell Phone at the Actor’s Theatre of New Orleans.

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See It All

➤ Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Jefferson, held its ninth annual “Light of Hope Event” on the grounds of the Jefferson Parish Juvenile Court Annex in Gretna. Three CASA volunteers were awarded certificates of merit. Pictured are (L to R) CASA Jefferson Director, Cynthia Chauvin, Advocate of the Year, Dianne LePree-Williams, Jefferson Parish President John Young, Department of Children and Family Services Worker of the Year, Tiffany Nelson and Outstanding Community Professional, Barron Burmaster.

Millennium Healthcare Management has secured funding for rapid expansion of urgent care centers by obtaining growth capital from Dallas-based private equity group, Elm Creek Partners and its coinvestors.

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

➤ Fidelity Homestead Savings Bank’s new president and CEO Alton K. McRee (second from left) mingles with chairman emeritus Allain C. Andry, III, (far left) and chairman of the board Katherine Andry Crosby (second from right), while greeting a guest at the cocktail reception in his honor.

The Jade Buddha for Universal Peace, the largest Buddha carved from gemstone quality jade in the world, has been on a worldwide tour of major cities since March 2009. The Jade Buddha arrived in Gretna on April 2 for a week-long exhibition.

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Desiree Rogers, a New Orleans ➤ native and current CEO of Johnson Publishing, hosted a cocktail reception in honor of Eunice W. Johnson and Black History Month at Macy’s Lakeside.

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Louisiana Artist Association’s, Artist for the First Quarter First Place winner is Polly Johnson. Polly’s oil painting, Storm Brewing was selected by attending guild members at their recent meeting.

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Take a good look, Jefferson

Things are really flourishing.

Everywhere you look there’s fresh landscaping and local art. Blighted neighborhoods are being revitalized. Bold new business developments are creating more opportunities. The levees passed a huge test and keep getting stronger. Our hospitals rank as some of the best in the nation. The police are better equipped to prevent crime. The list goes on.

Jefferson Parish is a great place to call home. Always has been and always will be. Now

Jefferson Life | May / June 2011

there’s a new energy here. You can feel it. And if you take a good look, you can see it.

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