Sophisticated Woman Magazine August 2013

eN ort h

shor e’s Best

Enterprising Woman

Augus

3| t 201

Fall Home Trends Northshore Cultural Heritage

www.sophisticatedwoman.com

Planet Kids Academy Madisonville

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Sophisticated Woman Magazine

The Northshore’s Top Dentists

Beverly Crews McQuaid President, M.Ed.

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ENTERPRISING WOMAN Setting the Standard in Early Childhood Education— Beverly Crews McQuaid ................................................... 18

THE NORTHSHORE’S TOP DENTISTS Putting the Value on Oral Health ....................................7 History of Your Toothbrush ................................................8

18 Photo by Steve Randon

The Power of a Healthy Smile ...........................................9

contents

Family-Oriented Pediatric Dental Care ....................... 11

August 2013

LEGAL Homestead Exemption and Special Assessment Levels ...................................................................................... 23

On the Cover

HEALTH & FITNESS

COMMUNITY

Fire Your Treadmill Routine!............................................ 13

Behind the Scenes ................................................................4

Will It Leave a Scar? ........................................................... 14

Associate Publisher’s Note .................................................5

Northshore Cultural Heritage ............ 15

Spinal Decompression Therapy .................................... 20

Northshore Cultural Heritage ....................................... 15

Fall Home Trends—Dream Décor ...... 26

Health Reform and Women’s Health ........................... 22

Rachel’s Challenge ............................................................. 30

The Best Way to Treat an Ankle Sprain ....................... 25

August Events ..................................................................... 32

BEAUTY & LIFESTYLE

Artistic Richness in St. Tammany .................................. 33 Spend Money to Make Money ...................................... 34

Celebrity Dish .........................................................................6

Stay Aware This Hurricane Season ............................... 34

Boost Your Confidence .................................................... 12

Chamber Rock ‘n’ Roll Raffle ........................................... 34

Better ...................................................................................... 14

Around Town ...................................................................... 35

Hydrangea’s Secret ............................................................ 28 Book Review: The Light Between Oceans .................... 29 Retail Calendar .................................................................... 29

7 Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

Ah, the Olive, How Olive Thee .........................................6

Dream Décor ....................................................................... 26

The Northshore’s Top Dentists ............ 7

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Behind the Scenes

Getting our August cover girl, Beverly Crews McQuaid to take a break from her daily hectic routine was no easy task. Our cover photographer, Steve Randon, along with the Sophisticated Woman Magazine staff managed to help this Enterprising Woman slow down long enough to enjoy her cover photo shoot completely. Following her photo shoot, Beverly and her family packed up and headed to the beach for vacation.

About the cover: Cover photography:

Steve Randon Photography, steverandon.com

contributors

Publisher Joanne Gallinghouse Associate Publisher Sarah Cottrell Contributing Editor Anna Grundmann Art Director Dianne Waller Graphic Designer/Staff Photographer Claire Thomas Graphic Designer/Web Master Julie Lodato O’Day Senior Account Executive Gwen Anderson Account Executives Anna Grundmann, Laura Zammit Distribution/Circulation Manager Melissa St. André Contributing Writers Kim Bergeron, Dawn SharpeBrackett, Mimi Nothacker, Anna Ribbeck, Dr. Mary Speed, and Jill Willie Contributing Photographers Tom Ballantine, Julie Lodato O’Day, Steve Randon Production Gallinghouse & Associates, Inc.

G&A PUBLISHING COMPANY

Kim Bergeron is a marketing and communications specialist known for her innovative efforts, creative thinking and philanthropic efforts including the Train of Hope for Sandy Relief and Rachel’s Challenge in St. Tammany.

Jill Willie is the public relations director for Gallinghouse & Associates and has over 15 years of experience developing communications strategies for a variety of businesses and organizations.

Dawn Sharpe-Brackett, I.O.M., is the CEO for the East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce. She is a native of Slidell, married to Captain Troy Brackett and has three children.

409 W. 21st Avenue, Covington, LA 70433 Phone: 985-893-7350, Fax: 985-893-7686 e-mail: editor@sophisticatedwoman.com SophisticatedWoman.com © 2013. 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 Around Town to the above address. If you wish to be mailed a one year subscription, please send your name and address with $15 for handling.

DISTRIBUTION—Your advertisement reaches approximately 75,000*

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

Distribution is guaranteed by direct mail plus supplemental pick-up locations.

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Our upscale mailing list includes the most sought after customers in Abita Springs, Covington, Folsom, Hammond, Lacombe, Madisonville, Mandeville, Ponchatoula, Robert and Slidell. Why waste your advertising dollar on “throw away” publications when you could be advertising in Sophisticated Woman Magazine for pennies per mailbox? Call us today. You’ll be surprised at how affordable it is to advertise with the best.

Dianne Waller is the art director of our production department.

With a background in print design, she holds a Bachelor of Arts from Southeastern Louisiana University, is a mother to a one-year-old daughter and enjoys scuba diving.

Claire Thomas is a married mother of two. She is a talented graphic designer and nature photographer.

She dabbles in gardening and has a fondness for plants native to our area.

Melissa St. André is office manager for Sophisticated Woman. In addition to the many hats she wears, Melissa is wife to Joey, the mother of two rowdy boys and an animal lover.

*Figures based on 2.5 readers per issue.

NOTE

І associate publisher

Cuff it Up!

MANDEVILLE 4350 HWY 22, STE. B | 985-624-2880 (NEXT TO ROUSES) COVINGTON 69305 HWY 21 | 985-893-6556

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

IT IS HARD TO BELIEVE that for those of us with children, summer is nearly over. Those carefree days when there are no thoughts of homework or the dreaded school projects are almost history. We are checking the school supply list, buying school uniforms and ensuring that summer reading is complete. As we help our children transition into the new school year, we realize how quickly time passes. I look at my son entering 7th grade and it feels like only a short time ago that I was sending him off to pre-reception (preschool) wearing his first school uniform: corduroy shorts (year-round even in the snow), along with the smallest wax jacket that is produced!

Putting your child on a positive path in preschool sets them up for success in grade school. This month’s Enterprising Woman is Beverly McQuaid who is the brains and passion behind Planet Kids Academy in Madisonville. Beverly has truly found her calling and after reading her story, you will understand why Planet Kids is one of the leading preschools on the Northshore.

In this month’s issue, we also feature our Top Dentists’ section as well as some great decorating tips and trends from various local designers. We look ahead to a full cultural season here on the Northshore with a roundup of what’s ahead. We are lucky to live in an area rich with cultural activities across the Northshore. Enjoy this issue!

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Jill Gibson, MD

Obstetrics & Gynecology

culinary arts І

OLIVES

recipe І FOOD

1/3 Vertical Bleed

Trim Size 3.22 x 10.75” Ah, the Olive, Bleed Size 3.50 x 11” How Olive2.47” Thee (live area) x 10”

Celebrity Dish RECIPE BY DAWN SHARPE-BRACKETT

1/3 Vertical Non-Bleed

OLIVES ARE ONE of the most widely 2.43” x 8.875” enjoyed foods worldwide and have always been so. They are referred to over 30 times in the Bible as well as in the Iliad, the Odyssey and the Quran. There are thousands of olive varieties available, still grown primarily in the Mediterranean Basin.

Many of us hear “olive” and immediately think “olive oil,” but here we focus on the fruit itself. Table olives are generally familiar—green, black, purple, shriveled, plump or

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stuffed. They all come from different countries and taste differently. This depends on the variety of the olive, the soil in which the tree grows, climate, altitude, time of harvest, method of curing etc.

Olives may be grown specifically as table olives, and the grower will strive for a cultivated variety (cultivar) that has a large fleshy fruit and a particular taste. Another grower may want an olive with a large pit to provide space for stuffing. Other growers choose to focus on a particular variety for its oil.

Only recently has the high nutritional value of table olives and their oil become known. Olives are high in fat, but almost 75 percent of that fat is oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat well-known to help decrease blood pressure and reduce risk of cardiovascular disease. Further, few high-fat foods offer such a diverse range of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients, some of which are unique to olives themselves. Olives are also a good source of iron, copper and dietary fiber.

Olives have always been popular, but they are even more so today with new and creative recipes widely available .

Pemmie Sheasby owns Oil & Vinegar, an interactive culinary gift shop. Staff can answer questions, offer tips and suggestions.

Sample, choose and enjoy a world of taste. Pinnacle Shopping Center, 6111 Pinnacle Parkway in Covington, (985) 809-1693, louisiana.oilandvinegarusa.com.

THE FIRST CELEBRITY CHEF NIGHT at Christopher’s On Carey was a great success.

Dawn Sharpe-Brackett, CEO of the East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce, was honored for her dedication to the community and leadership, not only at the Chamber but throughout the many organizations she represents. Dawn provided the recipe for her favorite dish, Chicken Divan, which has been prepared by her Mom since she was a child. The family recipe, cooked by Chef Christopher Case, sold out the night of the event.

Chicken Divan Ingredients: 6 skinless/boneless chicken breasts—(grilled and seasoned with chopped lemon pepper and paprika) 1 medium-sized chopped and sautéed onion 6 medium-sized chopped shiitake mushrooms 1 bunch fresh steamed broccoli chopped 1 can cream of mushroom soup 1 bag of shredded cheese Salt and pepper to taste 3 cups steamed rice Directions: In a casserole dish, mix all ingredients together. Add additional shredded cheese to top and bake at 350 F until cheese is melted.

CHARLES A. SCHOF, JR. DDS

І top dentists

Northshore’s Top Dentists Putting the Value on Oral Health Dr. Charles A. Schof, Jr.— Mandeville Center for Dental Excellence

Photo by Ainsley Piel

Dr. Schof is committed to making sure that his patients’ time and money are invested wisely. For instance, they have the ability to provide same-day crowns. This not only eliminates the need for a temporary crown and the need for an additional appointment, but it also enhances healing. “Because there is no need for a three- to fourweek temporary, we can now prepare teeth less-invasively and avoid the traditional crown,” he said.

For the dental-phobic, Dr. Schof offers nitrous sedation, oral sedation and recently partnered with Preferred Sleep Anesthesia, LLC to provide IV sedation by a certified nurse anesthetist to ensure the comfort and safety of their patients.

The Mandeville Center for Dental Excellence also offers 12-month interest-free financing and low-interest financing options for up to five years for patients who need extensive work that may otherwise be cost prohibitive.

“We work to break down the barriers that prevent people from attaining the level of care they desire,” Dr. Schof continued. “You’d be hard pressed to find a staff that provides the level of accommodation, treatment, acceptance and follow up than here at the Mandeville Center for Dental Excellence. We are the best.”

Dr. Charles A. Schof is a member of the Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, The American Dental Assoc. and has received Mastership Status from the Academy of General Dentistry. Mandeville Center for Dental Excellence, 240 Dalwill Dr., Mandeville, 985-626-4401 or visit charlesschof.com.

As seen in Sophisticated Woman Magazine

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

AS CONSUMERS, we may not immediately differentiate one dentist from another. Dental insurance has transformed a once relationship-based business into a restricted commodity. Unfortunately, most people only frequent the dentist during a dental emergency — Dr. Schof is working to change this mind-set.

“At the Mandeville Center for Dental Excellence, we strive to provide patients with the ability to make healthy choices for their long-term oral health,” he said. “Ultimately, our goals are: comfort, appearance, longevity and health within a framework that meets a patient’s desires, timeline and budget. What patients really want is a voice in their oral health.”

“Our office was one of the first to implement 3D imaging to improve patient treatment for dental implants as well as failing root canals and other pathology,” says Dr. Schof. Technology and training are keys to help detect issues well before patients experience symptoms. By investing in both, Dr. Schof and his team can lay out the most accurate and cost-effective treatment plans for people at all levels of oral health.

“Most patients have never been evaluated in a comprehensive manner. Educating our patients about health instead of focusing on the disease is key. We want to immediately stop deterioration and restore current health before making a plan to move forward.

Too often, people tend to their dental emergencies and stay in the ‘disease model’ repeating the same cycle. A long term plan will help prevent patients from backsliding,” he said.

Dr. Schof recently completed a one-year implant residency course in Birmingham, Alabama to further the services he provides. “It is wonderful that we now have affordable options to treat patients with severely broken down dentitions,” he explained, “Dental implants have opened the doors for not only single tooth replacement but also for long-term denture wearers.” The entire process is now carried out in his office.

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History of Your Toothbrush PEOPLE HAVE ATTEMPTED to keep their teeth clean for thousands of years. Take a look at some fun and interesting facts about the history of your toothbrush: -Around 3000 BC, ancient people rubbed thin twigs with tattered ends known as “chew sticks” against their teeth to clean them.

-Ancient Roman recipes for toothpaste include ingredients such as bones, eggshells, pumice and myrrh, while the Greeks used mint, still common in today’s pastes.

-The Chinese invented a toothbrush similar to one we would recognize today in 1498 using stiff bristles from the back of a hog attached to handles made of bamboo and bone.

-An Englishman named William Addis of Clerkenwald created the first mass-produced toothbrush around 1780. Mass production of toothbrushes in America didn’t begin until 1885.

-Toothbrushes with synthetic bristles were introduced in 1938. The bristles were made of nylon and called “Doctor West’s Miracle Toothbrush.” Before this time, toothbrushes were primarily made of boar bristles.

-In 1960, the first electric toothbrush, the Broxodent, hit the shelves.

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The Power of a Healthy Smile— Jay E. Fagan, DDS WRITTEN BY JILL WILLIE

IT’S ONE OF THE FIRST THINGS people notice about you and one of the last things they forget—a healthy smile. But when a smile is unhealthy, it affects more than how you look. It affects how you feel. Medical conditions such as periodontal disease, gingivitis and tooth decay can be painful as well as unsightly.

Periodontist Jay E. Fagan, DDS treats oral diseases and physical impairments to restore the health, appearance and confidence in one’s smile.

Periodontal disease is a progression of the gum disease gingivitis to the point that patients need intricate, skilled care. With more than three decades of experience, Dr. Fagan is adept at a variety of treatment options for people suffering from periodontal disease. Procedures include deep cleaning of affected gums and bone grafts to promote tooth regeneration to periodontal surgery and Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP).

“Periodontal disease does not only affect the mouth, it can lead to deeper systemic ailments.

Early detection and intervention can produce the

І top dentists

best result. My primary concern is restoring the oral health of my patients via the most painless means possible—whether in our office or in a hospital setting.” Dr. Fagan said.

“The LANAP for instance, requires no sutures and generally has a faster recovery time than more conventional periodontal surgery. We also offer IV sedation for those patients who require it,” he said.

Dr. Fagan also works with orthodontists to help prepare patients for braces. Procedures range from simple extractions, hygiene services, skin regrafting and surgical cuspid exposure techniques.

In addition to medical treatments, Dr. Fagan can improve the appearance of one’s mouth for purely aesthetic reasons. Receding gum lines, otherwise known as “gummy smiles,” can be repaired with crown lengthening and skin grafting. Dr. Fagan can also provide dental implants to replace missing teeth.

Dr. Fagan has practiced on the Northshore for more than 25 of his 30 years in the field of periodontology. In addition to his private practice, Dr. Fagan is a staff member at St. Tammany Parish Hospital.

Dr. Fagan’s office is located at 2301 N. Highway 190 Suite 1 in Covington. To schedule an appointment call 985-892-1113. Visit drjfagan.com for more information.

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

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Slidell Family Dentistry

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Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

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You’ll appreciate our caring staff, gentle treatment, complete dental wellness program, 0% financing, emergency care, and appointments that meet your schedule.”

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KATHERINE VO, DDS

І

top dentists

Family-Oriented Pediatric Dental Care— The Children’s Dental Cottage

Photo by Julie Lodato O’Day

WRITTEN BY JILL WILLIE

Pictured from L to R : Capri Smith, Kelsie Scheuermann, Brandi Yates, Linda Yochim, EDDA, Susan Fallahi, DDS, Katherine Vo, DDS, Gail Griffin, EDDA, Tracy Crenshaw, EDDA, Nicole Schembre, RDH and Mindy Munch, EDDA. healthy attitudes and habits. Children who have positive experiences with their dentists are more likely to become better patients as adults. “We can even offer sedation for anxiety and reduce the fear that comes with visiting the dentist.”

In addition to age-appropriate toys and games in the waiting area, there are televisions mounted in the ceilings above each chair to help occupy the children during procedures. Dr. Vo uses digital X-ray technology that produces lower levels of radiation than conventional X-rays. She also utilizes a digital panoramic X-ray machine that allows her to see all developing teeth and to check for any pathology in the jaws. These digital X-rays allow images to be seen immediately—before the child becomes antsy and frustrated.

Parents are encouraged to accompany their children in the treatment rooms not only because it usually helps make the children more comfortable—but also because it allows them to participate more fully in the appointment. At Children’s Dental Cottage, dental treatment is truly considered a family affair.

The staff at The Children’s Dental Cottage is also like family, emphasizing the importance of continued education and strong work relations. This past May, Dr. Vo took her staff to the AAPD Annual Session in Orlando. “We not only learned about the latest in pediatric dentistry, but also enjoyed our time together outside the office setting,” said Dr. Vo. This family-oriented mindset is what compelled Dr. Vo to recently add a pediatric dentist, Dr. Susan Fallahi on staff. Dr. Vo wanted to maintain a full time practice and still have time for her husband and children, a 17 year old stepson, a preschooler, and an infant. She and Dr. Fallahi work opposite schedules to provide seamless care to patients every day of the workweek. They also take emergency appointments for established patients and for dental referrals.

Dr. Katherine Vo is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. The Children’s Dental Cottage is located in Madisonville at 704 Main Street, 985-845-3211, childrensdentalcottage.com.

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

PEDIATRIC DENTIST Katherine Vo, DDS has been working with children her entire life.

The daughter of Vietnamese immigrants, she and her nine siblings learned the importance of family and education at an early age. Not only did these values lead to her choice of career, they are also the leading forces behind the way she conducts her practice.

The Children’s Dental Cottage in Madisonville is an environment where children, along with their parents, can learn the importance of practicing good oral hygiene.

Every aspect of the office, from the décor to the technology, is designed to put children at ease. “We want to show our patients that they are important and let them know that their voices are heard,” Dr. Vo said.

Dr. Vo specializes in children, infants, children with special needs, and is even an Official Real Tooth Fairy® dentist. The office participates in an interactive program that allows children to pick out and play computer games with their very own tooth fairy.

According to Dr. Vo, providing a great experience is a key part in establishing

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IF YOU GET BUTTERFLIES when you speak 5.05” x 2.12” in front of a group of people, or are nervous making a phone call to someone you don’t know, you could benefit from a boost in confidence. The more you present yourself, the easier it is to greet new people, hold conversations and increase public speaking ability during times it would normally feel frightening.

By building self-awareness through learning your personal strengths and weaknesses, you can improve both. Acting and modeling classes are great ways to boost your confidence. Professional instructors can teach you techniques to build your self-awareness and become a more effective speaker, actor or model.

1/2 Vertical Acting classes allow you to perform tech5.05” x 6.56” niques in front of peers without any pressure, while modeling classes help you feel more confident in your walk, stance and overall appearance. You will build friendships as you continue to feel more secure and ready to take on any challenge in school, on the job or for your next audition.

Acting classes are great for building communication skills. In acting, when taking on a role of a character, you must relate to another viewpoint by thinking and performing outside the box. A successful actor must also “listen” to his or her partner in order to have the most natural reactions. Understanding a character’s feelings and motivation can help you empathize with others. Similarly, recognizing others’ emotions, and listening to their input will teach you how to listen, express yourself more effectively and become a better communicator in all areas.

Both children and adults can benefit from acting and modeling classes to boost confidence and grow both professionally and personally!

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Celeste Marcussen Hart is a former actress and model, and owner of Creating U in Covington. Creating U provides professional training in acting, modeling and filmmaking, and is located at 69154 Hwy 190 E. Service Rd., Covington, 985-796-1818, creatingu.com.

CARDIO TIME

І fitness

Fire Your Treadmill Routine!

SO, YOU’RE TRUDGING on the treadmill again, somewhere between mild dread and intense loathing. You’re listlessly channel surfing for anything distracting enough to keep you engaged for the next half hour.

This is cardio time. Today you’ll increase the pace to 3.6 miles per hour from yesterday’s 3.4—groundbreaking progress.

If this is you, gently unhand the remote. I have good news and a bit of bad news, too.

First the good: you can get better results in half the time it will take you to “power walk” through the reality episode du jour... and you don’t have to run. The bad news? I said it would be shorter, not easier. In fact, if you have a nonnegotiable sweat aversion the only timesaving tip I can offer is to stop reading this column.

Otherwise, ask your doctor about High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). Unlike traditional cardio, which calls for you to hang out in the aerobic zone, HIIT trains both the aerobic and the anaerobic energy systems.

It does this by interspersing short bursts of maximum effort activity with longer recovery intervals of low to moderate intensity activity. For example, a 30-second steep incline hike would precede the aforementioned 3.6 mph walk. Then, after 90 seconds of walking, you’d be right back to hiking or even sprinting.

Why bother with the extra exertion? Aside from cutting cardio time in half, studies indicate that HIIT can increase calorie burn and fat loss while preventing muscle loss associated with distance cardio. Sometimes a good long walk or jog is what’s in order. For all the other days, take encouragement, because science offers a short cut.

Debbie Denova-Baker, former Beverly Hills celebrity trainer, is a certified fitness and wellness consultant, and co-founder of Louisiana FitLife magazine. She is co-owner of Koko FitClub in Mandeville, Baton Rouge, Houma and Thibodaux. 3441 E. Causeway Approach, 985-746-4161, KokoFitClub.com.

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Will It Leave a Scar?

Better

WHAT KEY FACTORS are considered by dermatologic surgeons to minimize scarring when an unwanted or cancerous growth requires removal?

First, the location on the skin is of prime importance. Generally, facial skin is extremely forgiving and allows us to incise, stretch and re-position large areas that heal with remarkable results. Doing the same procedure on less forgiving areas, such as the upper back or chest, presupposes an easily visible scar because the skin in these areas simply heals with much more scar tissue formation. Since facial skin heals more quickly due to its prolific blood supply,

WRITTEN BY DR. MARY W. SPEED

sutures are typically removed within a week — whereas other areas usually require two weeks. Likewise, blisters produced by liquid nitrogen freezing of pre-cancerous lesions or warts heal in half the time on the face compared to other areas.

Scars are also minimized when the surgical wound edges are sewn together with a minimum of tension at the surface. For this reason, subsurface tissues are joined with deep, dissolvable sutures invisible from the surface. This allows delicate, tension-free thread to be used for closure with multiple, tiny sutures on the surface which leave no imprint after removal.

Knowing which type of removal and repair to employ depends upon the physician’s training and experience. For instance, certain areas on the face, such as those near the inside corner of the eye or on the flatter portion of the ear, can heal with virtually no scar at all whether excised and left open to heal naturally or covered with a skin graft taken from a distant site.

Finally, tiny growths need tiny excisions so get your spots checked when they are small!

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

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Call Benson Dermatology or visit www.BensonDerm.com.

I USED TO THINK…hope that when things got better they stayed better. Life, however, is not only lived from lofty peaks but also experienced in valleys and plateaus. Many clients in session express that they want to do better and are disappointed in themselves for missing the mark. They discover that recovering from less-than-stellar choices and isolation may involve a series of stops and starts and beginning again.

Many clients in session express that they want to do better and are disappointed in themselves for missing the mark.

Over the years I’ve found that there are 11 steps to recovery: First, give up the quest for perfection in yourself and others. Second, accept that the next moment is a unique place of optimum potential. Next, when an unflattering image of yourself comes to mind, say, “I can’t see myself doing that.”

Visualize yourself making healthy changes like holding a glass of ice water and being aware of your smile. Begin to excel in expressing gratitude. Connect with healthy friends and fun activities. Be your own best friend. Focus on what is working in your life; repeat. Respect your body. Read Blessed Are the Addicts: The Spiritual Side of Alcoholism, Addiction and Recovery written by Father John Martin. The final step is to practice integrity.

Integrity is like when we drive across the Causeway. We want the bridge to hold and that is what personal integrity does; it holds.

You may not be what you want to be, but you are better than you were. Hold on to that.

NORTHSHORE CULTURAL HERITAGE

Northshore Cultural Heritage WRITTEN BY ANNA GRUNDMANN

arts provide,” said Alex Carollo, director of Slidell’s Department of Cultural & Public Affairs. Slidell’s upcoming cultural season includes art exhibits at the Slidell Cultural Center, the Bayou Jam concert series in Heritage Park, Some Enchanted Evening with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Arts Evening Cultural Festival in Olde Town Slidell.

Photo by the City of Slidell

THE NORTHSHORE COMMUNITY boasts a unique and vibrant cultural heritage stemming in part from the enthusiasm of its residents and partially from its proximity to the bustling epicenter of culture in New Orleans.

A true representation of South Louisiana, the Northshore prides itself on the quality of its food, music, art, history and most importantly—its people. From the trailhead concerts in Covington and Mandeville, to the quaint shops and restaurants in Olde Town Slidell, to the lively theater scene in Hammond, the Northshore’s physical surroundings and dedicated cultural committees contribute to a rich cultural heritage that is unparalleled.

The city of Slidell promotes the importance of the arts in their community through the Department of Cultural Affairs and their use of the Slidell Cultural Center. “There is always something to do in Slidell. With concerts in scenic Heritage Park, art exhibitions in the Slidell Cultural Center at City Hall, street fairs in Olde Towne and a plethora of festivals and community events, our citizens enjoy a high quality of life that the

І community

TOP: The Three Rivers Art Festival will celebrate its 16th anniversary this year. BOTTOM: Some Enchanted Evening with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra brought crowds to Slidell’s Heritage Park.

The Hammond Regional Arts Center, whose mission is to enrich lives through quality arts education, develop an appreciation of the arts within individuals, and introduce the public to professional exhibitions, performances and literature, recently won the 2013 Outstanding Arts Organization Award during the Louisiana Culture Awards in Baton Rouge. Melissa Griffin, executive

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The City of Slidell and the Commission on the Arts would like to thank the 2012-2013 Cultural Season Sponsors for their support.

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Expressionist • $1,500 Sponsors: Ronnie Kole Foundation Van Geffen Wealth Strategies, LLC Neoclassical • $1,000 Sponsors: Chateau Bleu Lowry-Dunham, Case & Vivien Insurance Agency Northshore Harbor Center The Slidell Independent

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

Impressionism • $500 Sponsors: A Touch of Italy Café Bargains Plus!/Postal Plus!

Baskin Robbins/ Coy & Donna Faucheux Copeland’s of New Orleans Councilman Bill & Laura Borchert State Representative Greg Cromer Chris and Babs Des Marteau Northlake Oral & Facial Surgery Palmettos on the Bayou Pontchartrain Investment Management Rotary Club of Slidell Northshore Silver Slipper Casino • Signs Now Sunrise on Second Street Terry Lynn’s Cafe & Creative Catering Textron Marine & Land Systems Tanya Witchen, RE/Max Real Estate Partners The 2012-2013 Cultural Season was supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts as administered by the St. Tammany Commission on Cultural Affairs.

Sponsorships for the 2013-2014 Cultural Season are now available. Please call (985) 646-4375 for more information.

www.slidell.la.us • Follow us on

16

ABOVE: Kermit Ruffins entertains concertgoers at the Covington Trailhead with his famous jazz trumpeting BELOW LEFT: Children join the Topcats live performance at the Bayou Jam Concert Series at Heritage Park in Slidell. BELOW RIGHT: Christian Serpas at the Bayou Jam Concert Series. director of the Hammond Regional Arts Center, says that she is “proud to be part of the building momentum” of the Hammond arts scene. Hammond’s exciting cultural season will include the 16th Annual Culinary Arts Series, which features dinners and demonstrations from restaurants such as The Red White and Brew and Tope Là Restaurant.

The Culinary Arts Series begins August 12 and runs through September 9.

The Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts, owned and operated by Southeastern Louisiana University, also contributes to Hammond’s flourishing cultural scene.

Fanfare, the Columbia Theatre’s October celebration of the arts, humanities and social sciences, will celebrate its 27th season this year. Coupled with the theater’s yearlong schedule of cultural events, the Columbia Theatre provides Northshore residents a premier location for the enjoyment of performing and visual arts.

Photos by the City of Slidell

Mandeville’s director of cultural and economic development, Alia Casborné, explains the value of an excellent cultural community: “Every city has a personality that reflects its history, heritage, diversity and quality of life of its residents. Many things contribute to how we experience our community, but one thing that we believe is essential in shaping Mandeville’s personality is how people see, feel and connect with its cultural life. The Cultural and Economic Development Department was created to celebrate and promote the unique experience of living in Mandeville.” Mandeville’s noteworthy event this fall is their second Annual OctoberFeast, taking place October 2-5. The four-day gastronomical festival celebrates the birthday of Mandeville founder Bernard de Marigny, and features food and wine dinners, an art stroll, a free concert and a “Grand Food and Wine Tasting” from Mandeville’s premier restaurants at the Trailhead.

NORTHSHORE CULTURAL HERITAGE

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Art Festival hosted this year on November 9-10, is one of the most anticipated art exhibitions of the year. “Since its inception in 1997, the Three Rivers Art Festival has grown immensely, yet has maintained its focus on high-quality, original fine arts and crafts. As part of our mission to improve arts education in schools, the children’s activities have evolved in particular. The Children’s Discovery venue currently includes interactive hands-on activities, live music, performing arts, entertainment and a student-art competition and exhibit. You’re sure to find something enjoyable for everyone at this festival,” says Joanne Gallinghouse, member of the festival’s board of directors and one of the original founders. With over 200 juriedartists, a student-art exhibition, 5k race, food, music and fun for the whole family— this admission-free art festival is sure to impress.

With festivals like these taking place on the Northshore throughout the year, it is no wonder that our cultural community is incomparable. The cities of Slidell, Hammond, Mandeville, Covington and surrounding communities take great pride in upholding the cultural heritage of our area and work continuously to promote the unique experience that makes up the Northshore.

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Founded by John Wharton Collins in 1813, Covington marked its bicentennial anniversary this year. The city of Covington, like most South Louisiana cities, celebrates its history and heritage through food, music and the arts. Sarah Chambless, the city’s cultural arts and events coordinator, sums up Covington’s allure saying, “Spend one day in Covington, and you’re sure to find its southern charm palpable. From scenic rivers, parks and walking trails to world-class music, art, dining and shopping, there is something to suit just about every taste and interest here.”

Covington’s monthly block parties, weekly farmers markets and seasonal “Sunset at the Landing” concert series epitomize the cultural community that is Covington.

Covington also plays host to a variety of nationally renowned art festivals including the St. Tammany Art Association’s 48th Annual Juried Artists Exhibition, and the Three Rivers Art Festival. Cindy Pulling, executive director of the St. Tammany Art Association (STAA), says she is “proud to be a part of Covington and the surrounding communities, providing a resource for local artists, continuing arts education and cultural events year round.” This year’s juried art exhibit, going on now through August 10, features visual artists from across the United States, and is one of the most diverse exhibitions in Louisiana. The Three Rivers

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enterprising woman

І BEVERLY CREWS MCQUAID Setting the Standard in Early Childhood Education— Beverly Crews McQuaid Planet Kids Academy WRITTEN BY MARA BEEBE PHOTOS BY STEVE RANDON

BEVERLY CREWS MCQUAID spent much of her childhood teaching her younger brother on a chalkboard and had always dreamed of being a teacher, “except for the brief phase of wanting to be a rock star, but my voice can truly bring people to tears,” laughs Beverly. Her mother, Joyce Lafaye Crews, now 81-years-old, taught first graders at St. Pius and coached at Ursuline Academy in New Orleans.

Beverly’s parents always encouraged her to be her very best and taught her that everything in life is manageable with hard work and a strong faith in God. Beverly knew that she loved children and felt that she needed to run her own early childhood program where children are free to explore in a “guided-learning and unconditional loving environment.” She opened Planet Kids Academy in 1996. Seventeen years later, Planet Kids remains a top-rated early childhood center for 12 months through pre-K and has been voted the Northshore’s Best Early Childhood Program for the seventh year in a row.

“Opening Planet Kids was probably one of the craziest things I have ever done but I jumped right in. In the beginning, I was the owner, director, teacher, cook and diaper changer. I knew I didn’t want Planet Kids to be just a daycare. I wanted a program where children are validated.

I have learned a lot over the years and find it crucial to stay on the cutting edge of the industry, but, what I always come back to and believe strongly in, is going back to the basics,” says Beverly.

“Going back to the basics—only better,” as Beverly terms it, means that everything is about the whole child, the use of the five senses, knowing the child’s family and the child’s developmental needs and levels, and when to adjust to meet their needs as they grow and learn. With one of the lowest teacher to child ratios in the state, Planet Kids incorporates a strong connection to each child, utilizing the Montessori Method of learning by play and understanding that each child learns differently from the other.

“I shall pass through this way but once. If therefore there be any kindness I can show or any good I can do my fellow men, let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”

-William Penn

Photo by Katharine Bentz Photography

TOP LEFT: McQuaid Family, Beverly’s husband Andrew, and their children Patrick and Catherine Shea TOP RIGHT: Beverly with her two children Patrick and Catherine Shea

Married to Andrew McQuaid, a man who she says is quick to listen, slow to speak, and always supportive, they have two children, Patrick, age 11 and Catherine Shea, age 10. “My children have taught me that putting others needs before your own is gratifying. I tell them to be kind to kind people, be even kinder to unkind people, and to pray,” she says. Always striving to improve the quality and service of Planet Kids, Beverly stays on the go, whether she is working out, researching educational materials or cooking a mouth-watering roast with vegetables on a Sunday afternoon, “Albeit cooking is rare in my house,” she laughs honestly.

Her mission is to continue to raise the bar of early childhood education and bases everything she does in life on a William Penn quote that she learned from her grandfather, Edward A. Lafaye. Written in family journals and on a sticky note that hung in her family’s home, the philosophy is one that is a “real way of life” for her and her family: “I shall pass through this way but once. If therefore there be any kindness I can show or any good I can do my fellow men, let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”

Always learning but, most importantly, remembering the basics, this trailblazer will ensure that each child is able to become a lifelong learner in a safe and loving atmosphere. “I know in my heart that when teachers, parents and the child work as a team, it is a success for the child. Above all, I am grateful for Planet Kids’ success, knowing that God is working through us—it’s His plan.”

Planet Kids Academy is located at 317 Highway 21 in Madisonville, 985-845-0377, planetkidsacademy.com.

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

Beverly stresses that you can create a strong program, but you are only as good as your team. “We create successful and happy children with the tremendous experience, talent and effort that my staff maintains,” she raves. Her executive director, Darlene Pevoto, joined Planet Kids 16 years ago and ensures that the staff and program maintain relevance to be at the top of the game. “It’s the staff that enables the school to run smoothly—greeting each child with a loving smile, making every learning opportunity come alive and communicating daily with the parents,” she says.

Hands-on learning is encouraged in rooms with calming colors, children’s artwork and abundant natural light. “The architect sat on the floor for days watching the classroom interaction and came up with plans based on what the teachers and especially, the children needed. I wanted the environment to be beautiful and to promote learning in a tranquil space. One of my favorite areas is the entryway, which we refer to as our sanctuary. My cousin, artist Emery Clark, painted it to look like Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel,” says Beverly.

Continually reinvesting into the school, she recently commissioned a $15,000 renovation to the playground and Splash Pad. This past spring, students created a butterfly garden by cultivating larvae that produced butterflies for the entire school to admire in the art and science lab. Constantly researching, she has also added a computer area, yoga studio and Spanish classes. “From the time Planet Kids was conceived, I wanted it to be the leader in our industry,” she says.

She uses social media to keep parents informed and engaged in their child’s day and even installed cameras in the center so that parents can view what their little ones are doing from one moment to the next.

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health І

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All of these conditions may be the result of compressive forces on your vertebrae, which can cause spinal misalignment and compressed discs.

Compressed discs can lead to herniation or bulging of the discs, and consequently, pressure on the nerves. In addition to the pressure and compression, the nerve itself may not be able to receive the nutrients Vertical it needs to heal 1/2 and work properly. Often, surgery is used to decompress 5.05” x 6.56”the spine, which is invasive, painful, and carries significant risks. Medications to reduce pain are also often used. However, these do not treat the source of the pain, but only mask it.

Spinal decompression therapy is a noninvasive, non-surgical alternative that offers gentle spinal decompression using specially designed, FDA-approved equipment. Prior to treatment, patients are thoroughly examined both manually and through the use of imaging technology in order to determine which spinal discs are compressed, if the treatment is suitable and if it has a high likelihood of success.

Not everyone is a good candidate for spinal decompression therapy. Research has shown it to be very effective for some patients but not for others. It is also not entirely clear which people it will work best on. Therefore, it is important to allow a qualified chiropractic physician to examine and speak with you to ensure you have a good chance of successful treatment.

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

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Dr. Miller is a chiropractic physician at Integrated Spine & Disc. He educates patients to live a healthy lifestyle by combining chiropractic care, corrective exercises and nutrition counseling. 3441 E. Causeway Appr., Ste. D in Mandeville, 985-626-0999, chiropractormandeville.com.

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CANCER CARE close to family.

You need your family like never before. Combined with the Northshore’s most trusted names in cancer care, your loved ones are the heart of your care team.

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For world-class diagnosis and treatment, choose the comprehensive cancer center led by a collaborating team of leading specialists and professionals.

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THERE IS STILL much debate about the merits of healthcare reform, however there is no doubt that there are many benefits, specifically, regarding women’s health.

We are already seeing coverage of health screening, contraceptive services and breastfeeding support. Once the health insurance exchange is implemented, more affordable coverage will become available statewide.

A hallmark of women’s health, annual exams previously required copays on many insurance plans. Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), most insurance plans are now required to cover health maintenance visits without a copay. That includes not only the doctor’s visit, but also cervical cancer screening, mammograms and other testing.

Effective January 1, 2013, all new and renewed insurance plans cover birth control expenses without a copay. This includes contraceptive counseling as well as the cost of the medication. Not all insurance plans include all birth control on their formulary, so ask your doctor to check if your plan covers the prescribed medication.

While breastfeeding is undoubtedly good for newborns, many women must stop breastfeeding long before they would like. For anyone who has shopped for a breast pump (myself included!) you know how expensive they can be. While not all models are covered, insurance policies are required to cover a breast pump and the necessary supplies.

Keep in mind that the pump must be purchased from a Durable Medical Equipment supplier and often requires a prescription.

Many changes loom on the horizon for healthcare. Ensure you achieve the maximum benefit from those changes by staying abreast of new regulations and utilizing services available to you.

Dr. Gary Agena is a board-certified OB/GYN, and a certified da Vinci® gynecologic surgeon and instructor.

He provides family-friendly, longterm, comprehensive, customized care in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

His office is located at 393 Highway 21, Suite 525 in Arbor Walk Plaza in Madisonville, 985-845-7121.

ESTATE PLANNING

І legal

Homestead Exemption and Special Assessment Levels

WRITTEN BY RONDA M. GABB

SINCE OCTOBER 2011, St. Tammany Parish has allowed veterans who have been rated 100 percent disabled by the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to double their homestead exemption amount. The disability has to be service connected, but not necessarily incurred as a result of combat; this fact is often misunderstood. There is no income requirement to be met as with the special assessment levels (SALs) below. This means that now, the first $150,000 value of your primary home is exempt from parish property taxes.

Also, don’t forget about who qualifies for the special assessment levels (SAL), one of which is known as the “Senior Freeze”. Obviously this applies to seniors, as long as an owner of the property is age 65 or older (or the surviving spouse is 55 or older, or surviving spouse of any age if they have minor children). It also applies to veterans of any age who have a service connected disability rating of 50 percent or greater (also POWs, KIAs, and MIAs); and non-veterans (or veterans with a 49 percent or less disability rating) who have been deemed permanently and totally disabled by a governmental agency (state or

federal) or the Court.

In addition to the above requirements, you must also pass an income test. For 2013, the Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) on the applicant’s tax return may not exceed $69,463 (this applies to a single person or a married couple). If you are age 65 or older (or the qualifying surviving spouse), you do NOT need to meet the income test every year, only once upon your initial qualification. However, as to all the other SALs (except the 100% disabled veteran), you must meet the income requirement every year.

Remember that once your assessment is “frozen”, your property will never be reassessed at a higher value again, as long as you remain living there and make no significant home improvements. However, your millage rate may change, so your taxes may go up or down slightly.

All of these forms are available online at www.stassessor.org.

Ronda M. Gabb & Associates LLC, “A Louisiana Estate Planning & Elder Law Practice.” She is a member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and is a Board Certified Estate Planning and Administration Specialist certified by the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization. Her office is located at 40 Louis Prima Drive in Covington.

Call 985-892-0942 or visit her on the web at www.RondaMGabb.com.

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ANKLE SPRAIN

І health

The Best Way to Treat an Ankle Sprain ANKLE SPRAINS OFTEN occur when running, playing sports, walking on uneven ground or jumping.

Usually, people are told to rest, elevate the foot, apply ice and use an elastic wrap to reduce swelling. This treatment is typically followed by exercises that can be performed at home. However, more than 70 percent of people who sprain their ankles continue to have problems with them, and up to 80 percent will sprain their ankles again. This suggests that there may be a better way to treat ankle sprains.

We believe that a combination of manual therapy, progressive exercises, home exercises and testing to ensure that recovery has been reached is a better protocol.

A research report published in the July 2013 issue of the Journal of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy examines and compares the outcomes of a home exercise program to a more involved treatment program that includes manual therapy and supervised exercises.

The patients who received the manual therapy and supervised exercise program experienced 15 percent less pain at six months and 19 percent more function at four weeks than those using only the home program.

The researchers concluded that the combination of manual therapy and a supervised exercise program was superior to a home exercise program alone in the treatment of ankle sprains. This was because the combined program provided better pain relief and improved function.

We feel that it is essential to thoroughly evaluate everyone before they return to full activity after an ankle sprain. We know that if ankle strength returns to normal, the chances of another injury are far less likely.

Physical Therapist Matt Slimming, owner of 2 0 11 STAR Physical Therapy and STAR Fitness Center has practiced on the Northshore in Covington, Folsom and Slidell for 20 years. Contact Matt at 985-893-2845, StarFitnessCenter.com, StarPTClinics.com.

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Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

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Your bedroom should be a respite from the chaos and commotion of your everyday life. Learn how to turn your place of rest into a peaceful haven using these tips from local interior designers.

“Keeping a natural tone-on-tone palette gives a tranquil uncomplicated design.”

Billie Comeaux-American Factory Direct

“ Washable velvet and fabrics like bamboo that are cool, soft and environmentally friendly are trending for fall.”

Jenny Mutter-Hestia Luxury in Linens “Romance meets luxury with this sumptuous linen bedding.”

Jennifer DiCerbo-The French Mix

“Mixing different patterns together with decorative trim can really add that wow factor to your bedding.”

Stephanie Story-Stephanie Story Interiors

Photo by Steve Randon

“ When designing a room, soften the space by adding organic shapes like these lamps to offset the geometric shapes in the bedroom.”

Bethany McCulla-Bmac Interiors at Terrabella

“ With Fall approaching, light blues and turquoise colors, mix with various shades of cream, gray and tan for a clean transitional look.”

Eva Trader-Izabella’s Villa “Beautiful and classic in every way, iron beds are an element of design that add a layer of elegance to the bedroom. For an even more customized look, choose an upholstered headboard.”

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WHY ARE MY neighbor’s hydrangeas pink, but mine are blue? Yes, Hydrangea has a secret! Hydrangeas have beautiful, showy leaves that last until fall. They grow 3-4 feet high and can spread that much in diameter.

They like good light but prefer indirect sun in the hot summer months to avoid wilting.

Hydrangea really enjoys a good soaking and well-drained soil.

Now, back to the reason most people have hydrangeas — those gorgeous bouquets. No other plant in your garden is quite as showy as a hydrangea in full bloom. Whether you see pink, blue or white, those blooms will last a long time. When they start turning brown or green hang them upside down in a cool, dry place and save them for the Thanksgiving table arrangement. You could also spray paint them gold and use them to adorn Christmas wreaths.

Anyway, back to unraveling the secret of Hydrangea’s color. White blooms will always stay white or have a hint of green — no secret there! Pink hydrangeas cannot absorb aluminum from the soil. But I don’t throw out the aluminum foil and my blooms still turn blue. What have I done? Nothing, in general! The soil may contain aluminum in its natural state or the PH may be off.

Adding some dolomitic lime several times a year may help. Also use a fertilizer with high levels of phosphorus to keep aluminum

from creeping into the hydrangea’s system.

Fertilizers with a 25-10-10 ratio would be best to keep pink blooms. If all else fails, consider planting your pink hydrangeas in large pots with soil-less potting mixtures. This will help keep the pink color in your blooms.

Blue hydrangeas are easier — we all have blue days, don’t we? Aluminum must be present in the soil for the blue to appear.

Add aluminum sulfate to the soil. Using a solution of 1 teaspoon aluminum sulfate to 1 gallon of water. Do this monthly throughout the growing season, preferably following a good rain. Too much of this could burn the roots. Lower the phosphorus in your fertilizer and raise the potassium, 25-5-30 is a good fertilizer ratio for this. Also test your PH numbers — blue plants tend to like basic soil and pinks prefer acidic. Coffee grinds or lemon peels can add acid to the soil naturally.

Sometimes hydrangeas will change color on their own and you may get different colors on the same bush. Now, whatever happens with the color isn’t a secret anymore. You can fully enjoy those blooms when they appear and long for them to return again when summer reigns supreme. Don’t forget to dry a few for the holidays! Spread the word about Hydrangea’s secret—after all a little gossip does help sometimes!

BOOK REVIEW

І leisure

The Light Between Oceans WRITTEN BY MIMI NOTHACKER

THE LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS by M.L. Stedman is a compelling novel, which depicts the agonizing result of one decision.

When a boat is washed ashore with a dead man and a live baby, a lonely lighthouse keeper and his wife take action, resulting in tragic consequences. Their decision, made in good faith, reverberates throughout their lives and those of the neighboring community, causing both the innocent and the guilty to suffer.

The lighthouse image perfectly illuminates the theme of isolation, which permeates the story. As a lighthouse is battered during every storm, so are the novel’s characters. It is ironic that even when the characters do not intend to isolate themselves, it happens nonetheless.

The title, The Light Between Oceans, hints at the conflicted emotional state of the husband and wife. The light symbolizes consistent moral standards, and the oceans, the ceaseless and turbulent fluctuations in life.

The title was recently awarded the prize of “Historical Novel of the Year 2012.” If you enjoyed reading Jodi Picoult’s novels dealing with ethical dilemmas, you will want to read this, also.

The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman is available as a hardcover book and large print edition at the St. Tammany Parish Library or in area bookstores.

Mandeville Party Company has just received a large array of sorority gifts and back to school items. 985-674-1605, mandevillepartyco.com.

Azure Spa by Dr. Burkenstock is offering complimentary teeth whitening with every Luscious Lip Filler. 985-237-1999, theazurespa.com.

Each Saturday Oil & Vinegar features “Saturday Cooking” from 1–3 P.M., sharing ways to use and experience the many flavors of Oil & Vinegar.

985-809-1693, louisiana.oilandvinegar.com.

Dr. Burkenstock’s Skin•Body•Health has special pricing on Swarovski sandals. Buy one pair and receive the second pair at half price, perfect timing for the summer. 985-727-7676, skinbodyhealth.com.

Experience the exotic spices of Indian chai looseleaf tea selections or any prepackaged blend at The English Tea Room. Receive a 10% discount on all chai teas during August. 985-898-3988, englishtearoom.com.

Bombshell Waxing is offering a $99 special including a Bombshell Brazilian, underarm wax and full-body airbrush tan when you mention Sophisticated Woman Magazine. 985-633-1950, bombshellwaxing.com.

Inspire culinary creativity in your kids with a kid-friendly kitchen tool package that includes a child-safe cutter, 5-in-1 measuring spoon, jar opener and kid’s cotton apron from Culinary Kids. 985-727-5553, culinarykidsns.com.

Free Vein Screening August 23, 9 A.M - 2 P.M at La Bella Vita Laser and Vein Center.

985-892-2950, labellavitavein.com.

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Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

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RACHEL’S CHALLENGE

Helping to Combat School Bullying in St. Tammany— Rachel’s Challenge

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

WRITTEN BY KIM BERGERON

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EVERY DAY IN AMERICA, 160,000 students do not go to school because they are bullied, teased and harassed. It’s an epidemic that has been magnified by social media platforms, which provide more immediate and widespread tools through which such efforts are spread.

With increasing concerns about the rising rates of bullying and suicides in St. Tammany Parish, a group of community business leaders are working together to help combat the situation with a very successful program known as “Rachel’s Challenge.” The program is designed to empower students and provide them with strategies to combat bullying by creating cultures of kindness and compassion.

Rachel’s Challenge teachings are based on the writings and life of 17-year-old Rachel Scott, the first student killed at Columbine High School in 1999. The young student was known for her compassion toward others, often reaching out to those who were different, picked on by others or were new at her school.

The statistics of this program’s successes are staggering. To date, Rachel’s Challenge has served over 17 million students, with documented success of as much as a 60 percent reduction in disciplinary problems and prevention of over 500 suicides in the last three years as a direct result of this program.

It’s that effective. It’s that important.

While the program has been presented in a handful of schools throughout the area, the Rachel’s Challenge team in St. Tammany is working in partnership with the St. Tammany Parish School Board and PTA, Rotary Club of Slidell and Rotary Club of Slidell Northshore to bring the program to every school in the parish. This will be made possible through corporate and private sponsorships, which fund half of the program’s

ABOVE : Rachel Joy Scott, inspiration for Rachel’s Challenge. LEFT: Craig Scott, Rachel’s brother, presenting Rachel’s Challenge sponsorships provided by Slidell Memorial Hospital and Ochsner Medical Center.

Additional schools will be added as they confirm their commitments to participate as sponsorship funds become available.

Rachel’s Challenge is a non-profit, nonpolitical, non-religious organization based in Littleton, Colorado. Additional information and program videos are available at the organization’s website: rachelschallenge.org. The St. Tammany team includes co-chairs Kim Bergeron and Debbie Crouch, plus Jane Alford, Cherie Carter, Ron Davis, Sharron Newton and Wynn Williams. For local sponsorship information and updates, contact Bergeron, 985-640-0169 or Crouch, 504-451-2333, or visit facebook.com/RachelsChallengeStTammany.

costs, with schools responsible for providing the other half. The program includes sustainability elements that help ensure its continued effectiveness.

Salmen High School, Northshore High School and Slidell High School are already onboard for upcoming presentations with

The program is designed to empower students and provide them with strategies to combat bullying by creating cultures of kindness and compassion.

start a chain reaction

in St. Tammany

Each day 160,000 students do not go to school because they are bullied, teased and harassed.

By turning the story of a tragic death at Columbine High School into a mission for change, Rachel’s Challenge is helping create safer and more productive learning environments and making a world-wide impact.

Rachel’s Challenge is a series of student empowering programs and strategies that equip students and adults to combat bullying and allay feelings of isolation and despair by creating a culture of kindness and compassion. The programs are based on the writings and life of 17 year-old Rachel Scott who killed at Columbine High School in 1999.

To date, Rachel’s Challenge has been presented to over 19 million students, produced up to 60% reduction in school disciplinary problems and has prevented over 500 suicides. Now a group of community business leaders is working in partnership with St. Tammany Parish School Board, Rotary Club of Slidell, Rotary Club of Slidell Northshore, to help bring this program to schools throughout the Parish. In order to make this happen, we will need community support.

For information about becoming a Rachel’s Challenge partner, contact co-chairs Kim Bergeron, 985.640.0169, or Debbie Crouch, 504.451.2333, visit www.facebook.com/RachelsChallengeStTammany, or scan the QR Code with your smart phone.

Rachel’s Challenge is a non-profit, non-political, non-religious organization based in Littleton, Colorado. www.rachelschallenge.org. 1.877.895.7060

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

Together, we can help our children and teachers by transforming our schools and communities.

The statistics are staggering. The results are life changing.

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І AUGUST EVENTS

Every Wednesday

August 1–30

August 9

Covington Farmers Market. 10 A.M.–2 P.M., Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St., Covington, covingtonfarmersmarket.org.

Art Exhibit at Oak Street Gallery. Mon–Fri: 8 A.M.–5 P.M., 111 N. Oak St., Hammond, 985-386-2536, theoakstreetgallery.com.

St. Tammany West Chamber of Commerce B2B. 8–9 A.M., Chamber Office, 610 Hollycrest Blvd., Covington, 985-273-3008, melissa.bordelon@sttammanychamber.org.

Every Saturday

August 2

Camellia City Market. 8 A.M.–1 P.M., City parking lot at the corner of Robert and Front Streets, Olde Town Slidell, camelliacitymarket.org.

Folsom First Friday Block Party. 6–10 P.M., Camp St. to Railroad Ave. to Hwy. 25, Folsom, 985-773-3390.

Covington Brewhouse Saturday Morning Brewery Tours. 10 A.M., 10:45 A.M., 11:30 A.M., Covington Brewhouse, 226 E. Lockwood St., Covington, 888-910-2337, covingtonbrewhouse.com.

Mandeville Trailhead Community Market.

9–1 P.M., Mandeville Trailhead Cultural Interpretive Center, 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville, 985-624-3147, mandevillemarket@gmail.com.

August 2–30 Under 40 Exhibition at the Hammond Regional Arts Center. Tues–Fri: 1–5 P.M., Sat: 11 A.M.–3 P.M., 217 E. Thomas St., Hammond, 985-542-7113, hammondarts.org.

August 3 Northshore Roller Derby Mashup Green vs. Blue.

6 P.M., Castine Center, 63550 Pelican Dr., Mandeville, northshorerollerderby.com.

August 3 6th Annual Run for the Pearl Barrel Race.

7:30 P.M., Florida Parishes Arena, 1301 N.W. Central Ave., Amite, 985-748-5914, fparena.com.

August 5

Every 2nd and 4th Thursday St. Tammany Outreach for the Prevention of Suicide—SOS Survivors of Suicide Support Group Meetings. 6:30–8 P.M., St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 4477 Sharp Rd., Mandeville, 985-264-4244.

9th Annual East St. Tammany Red Beans ‘N Rice Cook-Off hosted by St. Tammany Fire Protection District #1, St. Tammany Department of Fire Services and Slidell Police Department. 11 A.M.–2 P.M., Knights of Columbus Hall, 1578 West Hall Ave., Slidell, 985-778-0815, jaimeb@unitedwaysela.org.

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

Madisonville Art Market. 10 A.M.–4 P.M., Water St., Madisonville, 985-643-5340, madisonvilleartmarket.com.

August 12 16th Annual Culinary Arts Series presented by The Hammond Regional Arts Center, featuring The Red, White & Brew with a series of its finest wines paired with a three course meal prepared by Kevin Cote. 6 P.M., 17420 Hwy 190, Hammond, 985-542-7113, tickets available at hammondarts.org.

Every 2nd and 4th Saturday

August 13

Hammond Farmer’s and Craft Market.

9 A.M.–3 P.M., corner of W. Thomas St. and S.W. Railroad Ave., downtown Hammond, 985-277-5680, dddhammond.com.

Ponchatoula Chamber of Commerce 17th Annual Business Expo. 5 P.M., Chesterton Square, 143 N.W. Railroad Ave., Ponchatoula, 985-386-2536, ponchatoulachamber.com.

Folsom Village Market. 9 A.M.–1 P.M., behind Folsom City Hall, 13401 June St., Folsom, 985-796-3533, villageoffolsom.com.

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August 10

August 1–10 48th National Artists Exhibition at the St. Tammany Art Association. Tues–Fri: 10 A.M.–4 P.M., Sat: 11 A.M.–4 P.M., 320 N. Columbia St., Covington, 985-892-8650, info@sttammanyartassociation.org.

August 15

August 8 East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours. 5–7 P.M., Live Oak Village, 2200 East Gause Blvd., Slidell, 985-643-5678, info@estchamber.com.

Ponchatoula Chamber of Commerce Chamber After Hours. 5:30 P.M., Florida Parishes Bank, 490 Barringer Dr., Ponchatoula, 985-386-2536, ponchatoulachamber.com.

August 16 18th Annual Hot August Nights.

6–10 P.M., downtown Hammond. 985-277-5681, dddhammond.com.

August 17

August 17

August 22

3rd Annual Ultimate Tailgate Party presented by the Exchange Club of West St. Tammany. Money raised will go towards the prevention of child abuse in St. Tammany. 7-11 P.M., Tchefuncta Country Club, 2 Pinecrest Dr., Covington, 985-377-3711, wstec.weebly.com

St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce Rock ‘n’ Roll Raffle Party featuring the Bucktown All-Stars. 7–11 P.M., Castine Center, 63550 Pelican Dr., Mandeville, 985-273-3008, melissa.bordelon@sttammanychamber.org.

Summer Lecture and Dinner Series of the British Empire—India. 7 P.M., The English Tea Room, 734 E. Rutland St., Covington, reservations recommended, 985-898-3988, englishtearoom.com.

August 29

August 20

East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce Fan Up! Pep Rally! 5–8 P.M., Slidell Municipal Auditorium, 2056 Second St., Slidell, 985-643-5678, jobeth@estchamber.com.

Ponchatoula Chamber of Commerce Summer Series Brown Bag Luncheon with guest speakers Congressman Steve Scalise and Representative Steve Pugh. 12 P.M. in the Rotary Hut at Memorial Park, 301 N. Sixth St., Ponchatoula, 985-386-2536, ponchatoulachamber.com.

August 31 Labor Day Getaway. Spend your holiday weekend visiting antique, collectable and specialty shops in historic downtown Ponchatoula. 985-386-2536, ponchatoulachamber.com.

August 22 Benefits of Home benefiting Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at St. Tammany Parish Hospital.

6:30–10 P.M., Franco’s Athletic Club, 100 Bon Temps Roule, Mandeville, marybird.org.

LEADERS

І community

Artistic Richness in St. Tammany

WRITTEN BY PAT BRISTER, ST. TAMMANY PARISH PRESIDENT

While still in the visionary phase, the Arts District will offer a place where every person within the Parish, can experience the richness of the arts in many forms.

Emphasis on the arts is nurtured within six Cultural Districts here in St. Tammany, designated by the State of Louisiana, which span from Slidell to Covington.

Original, locally produced artwork is offered for sale, tax-free to the public. Local participating businesses within these districts display the State of Louisiana “Cultural Districts” sign. You can also visit stpgov.org/arts to find maps of these districts and a list of participating businesses.

The arts not only enrich our lives with visual, tactile and auditory beauty, they create a snapshot of our current times, which is passed on to future generations.

“The Arts District will offer a place where every person within the Parish can experience the richness of the arts in many forms.”

Continued on page 34

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

ST. TAMMANY PARISH has long been known for its earthy, creative culture. We live in a place where a Saturday morning market is, in its own right, a gallery of artistic expression and agricultural richness. Musical and theatrical talents span our parish through venues that have weathered time, generated long-standing traditions, and produced rising stars. Couple these attributes with the abundance of natural, navigable resources we enjoy, and it is safe to say that our Parish is a cultural paradise.

My administration recently announced the proposal of an Arts District south of Covington, near the Louisiana Highway 21/Interstate 12 interchange and the Tchefuncte River, which would encompass an amphitheater, a performing arts facility, a Children’s Museum and outdoor nature trails and walkways.

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І LEADERS

Continued from page 33

Spend Money to Make Money

WRITTEN BY LIZ ANDERSON, PONCHATOULA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

TITUS MACCIUS PLAUTUS, a Roman philosopher who lived from 254 BC to 184 BC knew even then that, “You have to spend money to make money.” Yet, even 2000 years later one of the most common mistakes of inexperienced entrepreneurs is not to include capital for grand openings, advertising and promotion. As part of your own business plan, you may have identified your target audience, researched your competition and determined your own competitive edge, but if the public does not know you’ve opened or where you’re located, you have a major problem! By joining your chamber of commerce, you are putting yourself on the map in your community. Your chamber can help with grand openings and ribbon cuttings. By becoming a member, you will also have networking

and promotional opportunities and be invited to participate in local and regional business expos giving you the opportunity to introduce your business to the public. The Ponchatoula Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its annual Business Expo on Tuesday, August 13 at Chesterton Square. Over 60 forward-thinking businesses embrace this opportunity to meet prospective customers. They recognize business expos as promotional venues designed to showcase their goods and services to the community, and thus invest in their company’s health and growth. One out of three new businesses will fail in the first five years, sometimes because they do not spend money to make money.

Invest in your business; advertising and promotion are essential to assure success.

Stay Aware This Hurricane Season

WRITTEN BY DONALD VILLERE, MAYOR OF MANDEVILLE

I HOPE THAT EVERYONE has had an enjoyable summer and want to remind you that schools will be opening Friday, August 9. Please drive safely as school zones will be in effect.

The City is currently in the final phases of the 2014 budget process. There will be a budget session meeting at City Hall on August 5 at 6 p.m. in the council chambers. I encourage input from our citizens and welcome you to attend. The budget is on the front page of our website for public viewing under Finance Department updates. If you have any questions or comments feel free to call me in my office at 985-626-1082. The final budget will be adopted at our council meeting on Thursday, August 22, 2013.

We are still in the midst of hurricane season and are most vulnerable during the month of August. Please remember to keep prepared and stay tuned to our website and local media for any updates. Signing up for E-Briefs, Alert St. Tammany and Nixle will keep you in touch, even if you are on the road or out of town.

Finally, there is a lot of home remodeling and construction going on at this time. Please make sure all projects are secure before evacuating, including tying down any lumber and bringing any loose items under cover to prevent projectiles from harming someone or causing further destruction to your neighbor’s home and property. In the meantime, let’s hope for a bright and sunny August!

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

Chamber Rock ‘n’ Roll Raffle

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WRITTEN BY LACEY TOLEDANO, WEST ST. TAMMANY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT

BEING A MEMBER of our Chamber is an investment in the future. When the term “the Chamber” is used, it actually means our members. With their collective investments, those active on committees or our board, together with our staff of six, work to maintain a positive business climate, encourage growth and preserve the quality of life we have all come to enjoy.

If you are a business owner or employee of one of our large businesses, and are not a Chamber member, consider becoming an investor.

While dues investments are our lifeblood, they are not our sole source of funding. Make plans now for our Rock ‘n’ Roll Raffle fundraiser, featuring the popular Bucktown All-Stars! This year’s event will be held on

Saturday, August 17 and as always, is sure to be the end-of-summer-blowout! One $125 ticket admits two and includes free beer and wine, food from over 20 local restaurants, a silent auction, a costume contest and much more. Oh, and it gives one chance to win $10,000! Led by Raffle Chair Phoebe Whealdon of Coldwell Banker TEC, we invite you to come enjoy your favorite rock ‘n’ roll music all while helping support your Chamber and your community!

For information on membership, party tickets or any of our programs or events, call our office at 985-892-3216, visit our website at sttammanychamber. org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.

AROUND TOWN

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І community

1 | Riverside Elementary School recently held its Annual Louisiana Day. Pictured are RES students holding a baby alligator brought by St. Tammany Sheriff’s Office Hunter Safety Instructor and Wildlife Specialist Dep. Howard McCrea.

6 | Several students from Lancaster Elementary were recognized as finalists for this year’s Superintendent’s Award for Character and Citizenship. The students held a lemonade stand, LemonAid, to benefit the St. Tammany Humane Society.

2 | Crimestoppers of Tangipahoa recently held their 5th Annual End of School Summer Safety Bash at Mooney Park in Hammond.

7 | Students in Janice Perkins’ second grade class at Abita Springs Elementary School enjoyed viewing artifacts from the African exhibit at the New Orleans Museum of Art as a culminating activity to wrap up their last reading story of the year, Babu’s Song.

3 | St. Scholastica Academy Physics teacher, David Arbo, was presented with the 2012–2013 Scholastica Teaching Award. This award is given annually at the end of each school year to a teacher nominated by the senior class. L-R: Mr. David Arbo and senior Lauren Naquin.

4 | Congratulations to Kelo McKay, Lakeview Regional Hospital director of quality risk and infection control.

She is now a certified professional in patient safety by the Certification Board for Professionals in Patient Safety.

5 | At its recent honors convocation, Southeastern Louisiana University’s College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences honored several faculty members for excellence. L–R: Bev Marshall, Marc Riedel, Alissa Rowe, and Joseph Burns.

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8 | St. Tammany Parish Hospital honored St. Tammany Hospital Guild, Meals at Home and other volunteers. The top five honorees for Most Hours Volunteered in 2012 were David Brumfield, Jewell Lorio, Ruth Anthon, Phyllis Peralta and Elliott Peralta.

9 | Earlyn Pickering Jaster, chapter president of Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.) presented Mary-Brent Brown with a prestigious $2,500 STAR Scholarship. The P.E.O. Sisterhood provides loans, grants and scholarships for women to achieve their educational goals.

10 | After 6 weeks of fundraising, Stone Creek Club and Spa concluded its Stars & Stripes Salute by dedicating a new American Flag to American soldiers.

The “Stars & Stripes Salute” raised $15,000 for the Wounded Warrior Project.

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Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

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Ladies of St. Tammany

Heather Braiwick

Mortgage Loan Officer

504.430.0028

Randi Selby Barrett

Mortgage Loan Officer

504.296.8454

Stephanie Weeks

Mortgage Loan Officer

985.966.0700

Raynah Cullen

Mortgage Loan Officer

985.237.9253

hb@nolalending.com

rs@nolalending.com

saw@nolalending.com

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rc@nolalending.com

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Suzy Ortiz

Danielle Tonagel Thiel

Mortgage Loan Officer

504.236.6679

so@nolalending.com

NMLS - 413802

Mortgage Loan Officer

985.807.2123

det@nolalending.com

NMLS - 327345

Dianne Keeler

Mortgage Loan Officer

985-768-9075

dkeeler@nolalending.com

NMLS - 132154

Tiffany Bruno

Mortgage Loan Officer

985-246-9110

tb@nolalending.com

NMLS -881348

Kelley Wheeler

Mortgage Loan Officer

985.630.8201

kw@nolalending.com

NMLS - 973166

Nicole Smith

Mortgage Loan Officer

504-858-5081

nsmith@nolalending.com

NMLS - 1028291

Sophisticated Woman | August 2013

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