Sophisticated Woman - September 2018

Enterprising Woman Celeste Hart

Creating U Academy Northshore Attorneys & Professional Services Home Feature

The Happiest House

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SophisticatedWoman.com

Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

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Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

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On the Cover: Enterprising Woman Celeste Hart............................................................. 22 Northshore Attorneys and Professional Services

Special Section.......................................................... 6 Home Feature

The Happiest House............................................... 18

The Northshore’s Best

18

SEPTEMBER2018 ENTERPRISING WOMAN

HEALTH

Celeste Hart, Creating U Academy

Too Much Sugar in Kids' Diets

Nurturing Talent with Confidence.......................... 22

The Sweet Truth....................................................... 34 Dr. Charles Schof

22

NORTHSHORE ATTORNEYS AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Kasi Brannan.............................................................. 7 Frank J. D'Amico, Sr................................................... 8 Michelle Demarest Sunseri....................................... 9 Scott G. Discon........................................................ 10 Karla Kleindienst Glynn........................................... 11 Marie Hillman.......................................................... 12 Sheila M. O'Connor................................................. 13 Shandy Arguelles.................................................... 14 Lindsey S. Olsen...................................................... 15

FOOD & ENTERTAINING Foodies and Friends

On Anniversaries..................................................... 26 Spicy Citrus Crab Salad With Avocado................ 27 Cocktails

We've Got Spirits...Yes We Do!............................... 35

BUSINESS Mandeville Coatings

Tony Normand: A Man with a Mission................. 31

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BEAUTY, FASHION & LIFESTYLE

Elise Apffel

The Importance of Branding Your Business.......... 36

Behind the Scenes

Our Enterprising Woman Cover Shoot................... 5 Our Fashion Picks

Transform Your Look................................................ 24 The Sporting Life

Fashion Finds for Fans............................................. 28 Recognizing Distress Signals

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Fearing Dentures? Dental Implants Can Help...... 36

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Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

S.O.S......................................................................... 32

HOME & GARDEN Home Feature

The Happiest House................................................ 18 Gardening

Fall-ing for Your Garden.......................................... 33

COMMUNITY Editor’s Note............................................................. 6

LEGAL

Kids Being Kids....................................................... 37

Christie Tournet

Notes and Noteables............................................. 38

Residential Leases................................................... 16

September Calendar.............................................. 40

Sophisticated Woman Magazine

Behind the Scenes Enterprising Woman Celeste Hart We met with our Enterprising Woman Celeste

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Hart at her home in Covington where she prepared for her cover photo shoot by having

Associate Publisher Laura Tobin

her makeup applied by Natalie Essaied. While

Editor Chelsea Adams

she was getting pampered, we asked Celeste some questions so we could get to know her a

Sales Manager Lorie Hollis

little better.

Art Director Pam Hendrix Graphic Artist Elise Apffel Account Executives Sharon Bilbe, Suzanne Lucido,

SW: What did you want to be when you were a kid?

Stephanie Norman and Stacy Tobin

CH: I wanted to be a plastic surgeon or a heart surgeon.

Contributing Writers Joy Feldman, Cindy Lobert, Ellis V. Lucia, Lisa Ribbeck Lyons, Casey Perrin Robert,

SW: Where would you go on your dream vacation?

Mary Speed and Stacy Tobin

CH: Anywhere tropical.

Contributing Photographers Pam Hendrix, Cameron Payne, Kiki Randon and Steve Randon

SW: What was your favorite subject in school?

Fashion Editor Sharon Bilbe

CH: Math.

Production Gallinghouse Marketing + Creative G & A Publishing 409 W. 21st Avenue, Covington, LA 70433 Phone: 985-893-7350, Fax: 985-893-7686 e-mail: editor@sophisticatedwoman.com www.SophisticatedWoman.com ©2018. 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 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* Distribution is guaranteed by direct mail plus s­upplemental pick-up locations. 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.

*Figures based on 2.5 readers per issue.

Cover Photography: Steve Randon Photography, SteveRandon.com Hair and Makeup: Natalie Essaied, natalie.essaied@gmail.com CORRECTION: In our August 2018 issue on page 27 in the fashion feature, the credited photographer was incorrect.

The photographer for the fashion feature was Cameron Payne. cameronpaynephotography.com

SW: Are you a dog or cat person?

CH: Dog.

Contributors Ellis V. Lucia was born in New Orleans March 3, 1950, and worked as a photojournalist for 33 years. He lives in Covington with his wife, Bevil Knapp, and their two dogs.

Cameron Payne is a portrait and event photographer based in Abita Springs. Her job allows her to create beautiful images and meet some of the sweetest people and learn their stories.

Steve Randon is the official cover photographer for Sophisticated Woman. For more information about Steve Randon Studio, please visit steverandon.com.

Dr. Mary Speed is a licensed professional counselor and therapist. She is the mother of two and is devoted to working with at-risk youth, counseling individuals and families, writing and teaching life lessons.

Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

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editor’s note

IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE A few short weeks ago, students headed back to class. Some parents breathed a sigh of relief. Others may have shed a few tears when they dropped off their kids on the first day.

In my case, it was both. During the summer, I long for the routine school provides. At the beginning of the summer, I envision semi-structured days, filled with educational enrichment activities and handson learning. But we all know what happens with good intentions. By late July, my plans have completely fallen apart. I find myself negotiating screen time limits and trying to coax them out into the summer heat.

While I’m always happy when school starts back, a new grade level also brings the realization that my kids are growing up. My oldest is no longer a little blond three-year-old, tentatively exploring her preschool classroom.

She’s a confident, capable fifth grader teetering on the edge of teen-dom. And my younger daughter’s baby face may have disappeared this summer, but she gained a sarcastic wit that will prove quite problematic as she gets older.

When I see tearful moms at drop off, I don’t think they’re crying because they’ll miss their kids (although I’m sure they will). Instead, moms recognize their kids are growing into thriving adolescents and young adults while simultaneously longing for the babies they once were.

Yes, even though it’s bittersweet, I think most parents are glad to see our kids return to school where talented, dedicated teachers will guide their academic development. I am certainly appreciative of the role educators play in children’s lives as they grow from timid kindergarteners to self-reliant teenagers, poised to enter the world.

So here’s to a great year for everyone: teachers, administrators, students and their parents. Right now, it might seem like May will never come, but the school year will be gone in the blink of an eye.

W The Northshore’s Best

NORTHSHORE ATTORNEYS & PROFESSIONAL SERVICE PROVIDERS An attorney is a service provider you don’t know you need, until you do.

Fortunately, we have an abundance of talented attorneys on the Northshore who stand ready to help when you need assistance.

In our special section this month, we’ve included profiles of attorneys and other service providers who can help manage your legal and financial matters. In the following pages, you’ll discover who to call in times of uncertainty or when you need to plan for the future.

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Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

attorneys

Kasi Brannan

KASI BRANNAN - ATTORNEY AT LAW LLC

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

• Sole Practitioner, Kasi Brannan • Graduate of Loyola University College of Law • Certified Family Law Mediator • Certified Collaborative Law Practitioner • Member of the Louisiana State Bar Association and the 22nd JDC Bar Association, currently serving as chairperson of the Community Outreach Committee • Born in New Orleans; Grew up on the Northshore

AT A GLANCE • Person Most Admired: Jane Addams • Favorite Part of Your Job: The opportunities I have to use my skills and experience in areas outside of the courtroom • Favorite Movie: My Cousin Vinny • Favorite Quote: “If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything”

- Mark Twain

I

have been practicing primarily family law in St. Tammany Parish and Washington Parish for more than 22 years and have been a sole practitioner for most of my legal career. My firm handles litigation in cases of divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, community property division, protective orders, disavowal claims, intrafamily adoption and other family law issues.

Though the majority of my time is focused on litigation, I also offer mediation services, and I hope to see continued growth in the number of mediation cases handled by my firm.

For the past six years, I have also enjoyed teaching the eight-week, high conflict co-parenting course that many parents in litigation are court-ordered to attend.

Notary services are also available by appointment or drop-in during regular business hours.

Kasi Brannan attorney at law

The Law Office Of Kasi Brannan is located at 417 W. 21st Ave. in Covington.

For more information, please call 985-892-8700 or like us on Facebook @KasiBrannanAttorneyAtLaw. This is a paid advertisement.

Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

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attorneys

Frank J. D'Amico, Sr.

FRANK J. D'AMICO, SR. LAW FIRM APLC

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

• Attorney |President |CEO • Graduate of Loyola University College of Law

• Member of the American Bar Association,

Louisiana State Bar Association, Louisiana Association for Justice, American Association for Justice • Benefactor to numerous local community organizations and causes.

• Born and raised in New Orleans

AT A GLANCE • Person Most Admired: Theodore Roosevelt.

He turned U.S. sea power into the manifestation of our nation's outward thrust. More importantly, he felt for the common man.

• Favorite Part of Your Job: Working with my diversified professional staff to achieve the very best results for our clients.

• Favorite Book: I believe that the most important book is The Holy Bible.

• Favorite Quote: “The question is not who is going to let me; it's who is going to stop me.” - Ayn Rand

F

rank J. D’Amico, Sr., APLC, was founded in 1954 when D’Amico returned from the Korean War after serving as judge-advocate general officer in the United States Army. In New Orleans, D’Amico has long been recognized as a paragon in the field of personal injury law. He has successfully tried numerous cases, ranging from those involving severe brain injuries, serious burns, roadway hazards, product liability to motor vehicle wrecks.

D’Amico and his legal team consist of professionals who offer diversified skills, with each member contributing uniquely to the management of each case. The D’Amico team, under the direction of Frank J. D’Amico, Sr., fights for those who need a voice in the legal system. D’Amico and his team focus on the unique needs of each and every client and their families from the inception through resolution of each case.

According to D’Amico, “The collaboration that occurs within our offices, with the knowledge, intelligence and experience of this team, ensures our clients receive the best representation possible.” Frank J. D’Amico, Sr. has long been recognized among his colleagues and clients as a great trial lawyer.

Please contact us regarding matters involving personal injuries. Free consultations are always available.

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Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

Frank J. D'Amico, Sr., APLC is located at 500 Pontchartrain Drive in Slidell.

For more information, please call 985-645-0088, email fdamico@frankdamicolaw.com or visit our website at frankdamicolaw.com.

This is a paid advertisement.

attorneys

Michelle Demarest Sunseri NICAUD & SUNSERI LAW FIRM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

• Attorney, Nicaud & Sunseri Law Firm • Graduate of Louisiana State University and Loyola University College of Law • Member of the Louisiana State Bar Association and the 22nd JDC Bar Association • Instructor for Co-Parenting Class with Conflicts in Resolution • Born in Georgia; raised in New Orleans

AT A GLANCE • Person Most Admired: My father, Attorney Paul Demarest. He was a great mentor and teacher.

• Favorite Part of Your Job: Being able to help people problem solve and walk them through difficult times in their lives.

• Favorite Movie: The Proposal • Favorite Quote: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” - Isaiah 41:10

T

he practice of Michelle Demarest Sunseri and her husband J. Douglas Sunseri focuses on the challenges encompassed in the family/estate law arena including the unique legal challenges of Baby Boomers. This generation has matured, causing profound changes in the economy, housing and health care. Also, many are parents of blended families. Decisions to be addressed in a comprehensive estate plan include: Allocation to spouse and children–yours, mine and ours–administration of assets to the minor children or grandchildren through trusts including special needs trust, designation of beneficiaries of life insurance policies, IRAs and/or annuities, usufructs in favor of a spouse, powers of attorney and living wills or medical directives.

The couple’s extensive courtroom experience is beneficial for litigating contested probate and trust issues. Also, estate and probate matters are often discussed on their Sunday morning radio show on WWL 870AM/105.3FM. Nicaud and Sunseri Law Firm has been providing legal services to businesses and individuals on the Northshore and Southshore for more than 25 years. The firm's areas of practice include: family law, estate/probate, corporate mediation and disaster law.

The offices of Nicaud and Sunseri Law Firm, LLC are located at 7020 Highway 190 West in Covington (985-624-9697) and 3000 18th St. in Metairie (504-837-1304).

For more information, please email michelle@nslawla.com or visit nslawla.com.

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Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

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attorneys

Scott G. Discon DISCON LAW FIRM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

• Attorney/Owner, Discon Law Firm • Graduate of Loyola University New Orleans and the Mississippi College School of Law • Licensed to practice law in both Mississippi and Louisiana • Chairman, City of Mandeville Parks and Parkways Commission; Vice President, Northshore Humane Society • Northshore’s Best Attorney 2013, Sophisticated Woman Magazine • Born in New Orleans; grew up in Metairie and on the Northshore

AT A GLANCE • Person Most Admired: My father, John G. Discon

• Favorite Part of Your Job: Helping the less fortunate.

• Favorite Book: Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand • Favorite Quote: My grandmother Massa would always say, “Hells bells.”

D

iscon Law Firm is a personal injury firm that provides plaintiffs with high quality and responsive legal services with a special emphasis on trial litigation practice in maritime law. In addition, our firm also handles non-maritime personal injury claims, such as auto accident claims, workers’ compensation claims and longshore claims. Discon Law Firm is made up of two generations of attorneys whose mission is to help you with your personal injury claim by providing individualized attention. Our attorneys have extensive knowledge of the law, as well as civil trial experience in Louisiana and across the United States.

If you have been involved in any accident, whether maritime or non-maritime in nature, and you have a question concerning what you should do to protect yourself and your family, be smart and call me immediately for confidential, free, protective and worthwhile advice with no strings attached. Remember that the shipowner and/or your employer will protect their interests by consulting with a defense attorney. Why should you not do the same with an experienced personal injury plaintiff trial attorney?

10 Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

Discon Law Firm Discon Law Firm is located at 424 N. Causeway Blvd., Ste. A in Mandeville.

For more information, please call 985-674-9748 or visit disconlawfirm.com.

This is a paid advertisement.

professional services

Karla Kleindienst Glynn EDWARD JONES INVESTMENTS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

• Financial Advisor, Edward Jones Investments • Southeastern Louisiana University • Business Affiliations: Louisiana Professional Women’s Association, St. Tammany West Chamber of Commerce, American Association of University Women • Awards: 2018 West St. Tammany YMCA Northshore Hero; 2015 Spirit Award Winner, Northshore Walk to End Alzheimer’s • Community Activities: Alzheimer’s Association, St. Tammany Social Services Network, Kelly Kicking Cancer, St. Tammany Art Association • Born in New Orleans

AT A GLANCE • Person Most Admired: My mother. She earned her Masters Degree in psychology while raising six children. She was a clinical social worker, helping those with mental illness.

• Favorite Part of Your Job: Getting to know my clients and working with them to reach their goals and protect their families’ assets.

E

dward Jones investments is a full-service investment firm established in 1922.

In my practice I develop financial strategies tailored to specific goals for retirement, college funding and estate and legacy strategies. I work with individuals and business owners offering IRAs, 401K plans, SIMPLE and SEP IRAs, brokerage services, annuities, stocks, bonds and life insurance.

I am a member of the Regional Advisory Board of the Alzheimer’s Association, regional coordinator of the Alzheimer’s Association/Edward Jones Partnership, public relations coordinator for the Louisiana Professional Women’s Association, administrator for the St. Tammany Social Services Network Group and a member of American Association of University Women, the Covington Business Association and St. Tammany West Chamber of Commerce.

I feel very fortunate to live in a community that is very supportive of non-profit activity. I was recognized as a 2018 West St. Tammany YMCA Northshore Hero and as 2015 Spirit Award winner for the Northshore Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

Edward Jones Investments is located at The Market Place at Chenier, 1901 Highway 190, Suite 29, in Mandeville.

For more information, contact Karla Glynn at 985-626-1946 or email karla.glynn@edwardjones.com Member SIPC Sophisticated Woman | September 2018 11

attorneys

Marie Hillman

HILLMAN LAW OFFICE, LLC

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

• Attorney/Owner, Hillman Law Office, LLC • Graduate of Tulane University and the Loyola University College of Law • Member of Louisiana State Bar Association, 22nd JDC Bar Association and Professional Women of St. Tammany • Bible study facilitator at St. Peter Church • Grew up in Thibodaux, LA

AT A GLANCE • Favorite Part of Your Job: Understanding what is most important to my clients and finding resolutions to help them move forward.

• Favorite Book: Anything written by David Sedaris. He makes me laugh like no other writer.

• Favorite Quote: “In the end only three things matter: how much you loved, how gently you lived, and how gracefully you let go of things not meant for you,” .”

- Buddhist saying

M

y family sets examples for me to follow in my law practice. I most admire my grandfather, Donald Moseley, who was a family court judge in Baton Rouge.

My father, Ralph Hillman, started his own general practice in Thibodaux in 1968, and my amazing mother, Bertha Hillman, still practices today as a criminal defense lawyer for the indigent. They each made the practice of law not only their careers but a lifelong act of service.

My office is located in downtown Covington, and my practice focuses on family law, including divorces, adoptions, wills and successions. I mostly work on a flatfee basis, which allows me to focus on building relationships with my clients, making sure they understand the process. Divorce is not easy. My goal is to move my clients forward with strength, confidence and dignity. I also really enjoy helping my clients create wills that express and put into action their desires for those they leave behind.

Hillman Law Office, LLC is located at 222 N. Vermont St.. in Covington.

For more information, please call 985-302-0813, visit hillmanplc.com or look for @hillmanlawoffice on Facebook.

This is a paid advertisement.

12 Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

attorneys

Sheila M. O'Connor O'CONNOR LAW FIRM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

• Owner, O'Connor Law Firm • Graduate of Northwestern State University of Louisiana and Loyola University College of Law • Certified Master Life Coach • Animal activist/rescuer • Enjoys acting, traveling and snow skiing • Born and raised in New York

AT A GLANCE • Person Most Admired: My mother for her work ethic, zest for life, and love and dedication to her family.

• Favorite Part of Your Job: Helping people resolve their legal problems, especially those involving children.

• Favorite Book: Everything Happens for a Reason by Kate Bower • Favorite Quote: “Life isn’t about finding yourself, it’s about creating yourself.”

- George Bernard Shaw

I

have been practicing law for about 25 years. O’Connor Law Firm was established in Covington in 1998 and continues to thrive. The primary legal genre practiced by our law firm is domestic/family law, which encompasses issues dealing with divorce, property, custody, visitation, monetary and support issues, and any other family law matters.

I am a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association and the St. Tammany Bar Association.

I am a recipient of the Who’s Who, Top Lawyers of Louisiana Client Satisfaction Award and voted one of the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys Top Lawyers in Louisiana. I am a former Court Appointed Special Advocate and former Special Assistant District Attorney of St. Tammany Parish and a former High Conflict Parenting Course instructor.

Our firm currently has five employees, all of whom have been with us for many years.

We provide a casual, calm and inviting office atmosphere for our clients and prospective clients. Family law matters usually create strong, emotional responses by the parties. We are dedicated to the aggressive protection of your legal rights; however, it is our goal to help diffuse the stress in order to acheive the best outcome. O’Connor Law Firm offers free consultations, and we invite anyone who may need information or guidance to come in and meet with our staff.

O'CONNOR LAW FIRM

O’Connor Law Firm is located at 302 W. 26th Ave. in Covington For more information, please call 985-867-1575, visit oconnor-law-firm.net or look for @oconnorlawfirmla on Facebook.

This is a paid advertisement.

Sophisticated Woman | September 2018 13

attorneys attorneys

Shandy Arguelles DE ST. GERMAIN LAW OFFICE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

• Attorney, De St. Germain Law Office (DSG) • Graduate of Louisiana State University and Loyola University College of Law • Member of Louisiana State Bar Association and the 22nd JDC Bar Association • Certified Family Law Mediator • Louisiana Notary • Born in New Orleans; lives in Slidell

AT A GLANCE • Favorite Part of Your Job: : I am honored to be an attorney. I love researching issues and breaking the law down to the unique facts of each case. I especially love family law because it deals with real life issues that affect almost everyone.

• Favorite Book: The Secret. I keep a copy of the book on hand as a reference and use it to remind myself to stay positive, be grateful and to keep striving.

• Favorite Motto: “Helping one person might not change the whole world but it could change the world for one person.”

W

hen I hung out my shingle over 10 years ago, I had no idea what was in store.

I quickly gravitated to family law matters and was lucky to find my niche so early in my career.

I jokingly referred to myself as a “divorce magnet” and found that I enjoyed the work.

I built a hardworking support staff that genuinely cares about our clients. Their sincerity resonates with our clients and has been a key component in helping our firm grow. We strive to promote a positive, healthy and balanced lifestyle in our firm.

In 2016, attorney Lindsey Olsen joined our team, and our firm expanded from family law matters to estate planning and successions. We pride ourselves on helping individuals and families through challenging times—divorce, custody or the death of a loved one— by offering sound legal advice, experienced guidance and support. We specialize in all family law matters including divorce, custody, support, property partitions, modifications, contempt, and adoptions as well as successions. DSG also takes pride in supporting the community and participates in fundraisers by sponsoring local businesses and events.

DSG is located at 118 West Hall Ave. in Slidell.

For more information, please visit dsglawoffice.com or call 985-649-6390 to schedule a free consultation.

This is a paid advertisement.

14 Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

attorneys

Lindsey S. Olsen

DE ST. GERMAIN LAW OFFICE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

• Attorney, De St. Germain Law Office (DSG) • Graduate of Louisiana State University and Loyola University College of Law • Member of Louisiana State Bar Association and the 22nd JDC Bar Association • Northshore Zeta Tau Alpha Alumnae Chapter, Vice President of Programming • Louisiana Notary • Born in Lacombe; lives in Mandeville

AT A GLANCE • Person Most Admired: Professor Cheryl P. Buchert, Family Law Clinic Professor at Loyola University College of Law. • Favorite Part of Your Job: I like the challenge of figuring out how to get to the end result. It is a humbling experience to take clients from a difficult time in their lives to finding some sort of peace.

• Favorite Book: Safe Haven • Favorite Motto: “You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.”

W

hile still in law school, I developed my first passion in the legal field – family law. In 2016, I joined Shandy Arguelles at DSG Law Office where I was given the opportunity to expand my services beyond family law to include successions and estate planning, areas of the law that I have grown to consider my true niche.

At DSG Law Office, we specialize in all family law matters including divorce, custody, support, property partitions, modifications, contempt, and adoptions as well as successions. I accept Pro Bono legal cases from the Southeast Louisiana Legal Clinic (SLLC) and volunteer at events for the Justice and Accountability Center of Louisiana as often as I can.

DSG is located at 118 West Hall Ave. in Slidell.

For more information, please visit dsglawoffice.com or call 985-649-6390 to schedule a free consultation.

This is a paid advertisement.

Sophisticated Woman | September 2018 15

legal

T h e P l a c e To F i n d S o m e t h i n g S p e c i a l

Residential Leases: Read the Terms; Leases Are Contracts Too WRITTEN BY CHRISTIE TOURNET

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16 Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

TYPICALLY, WE RECOGNIZE that a real estate sale involves a myriad of legal considerations.

However, owners and tenants often fail to carefully consider important, legal terms prior to signing a lease. Similar to a purchase agreement, a lease likewise requires careful consideration.

For example, some customary provisions that require time, attention, and likely, negotiation, include: Rent. Generally, we know the rental fee to pay each month. However, is the rent actually due on the first day of the month? Or, is there a grace period? And, is there a per diem late fee?

Also of importance, can you be considered in immediate default for late payment, or is written notice required?

Security Deposit. What are the terms relative to your deposit? Return property with normal wear and tear expected? By the way, does “wear and tear” have the same meaning for both parties?

We recommend that the owner and tenants do a walk through prior to occupancy and again at termination to formally document the premises’ condition and to clarify nuances. If you are the landlord, do you return the deposit or a damages statement within 30 days of vacancy?

Sublease. If your circumstances change, are you permitted to sublet?

Hold Harmless and Indemnity. Depending on whether you are the owner or the tenant, it is important to consider which warranties are afforded and which are waived.

While most of us have entered into a lease at some point in our lives, we have likely also neglected to fully consider all these terms.

But, a lease can have important consequences that catapult parties into litigation. Thus, we recommend carefully reviewing the entirety of your lease for these provisions, among others, and ask questions prior to signing.

Christie Tournet & Associates, LLC, provides estate planning, estate administration and commercial law services. The practice is located at 1795 W. Causeway Approach, Suite 103A in Mandeville.

985-951-2177, tournetlaw.com.

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Sophisticated Woman | September 2018 17

home

the

Happiest House WRITTEN BY CASEY PERRIN ROBERT PHOTOS BY KIKI RANDON

18 Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

home

ON A TIDY corner lot in downtown Covington,

lot to the side. Jimmy and Dody added a

the

a

sparkling pool area, and the need for a

19th-century home into a 21st-century jewel.

changing space led to the creation of a

Even the grass sparkles like an emerald in

delightful guest house. Tongue and groove

front of this snow-white, classic beauty.

walls, a cast iron sink and brass hardware

Redmen

family

has

transformed

Dody and Jimmy Redmen bought this

produce a cozy cottage effect in this new

home in 2015 after a long search for

building, and a fully concealed Murphy bed

Dody’s dream house turned up nothing but

allows for overnight company. Flowers and

disappointments. A self-proclaimed lover of

arrangements are one of Dody’s passions,

old houses, it was always her dream to live in

and this space is perfect for her fresh

a neighborhood that seemed to be something

garden-cut stems.

out of a television show from the 1950s where

Inside the original house, things are

she could raise her family and watch her

somewhat different. During an extensive

son, William, grow up. “I quit searching on a

remodel, the house was basically gutted,

Monday, and I felt peace about stopping the

except for the original fireplaces. They

hunt for the perfect house. I got a call on

restored what they could. Working with

Wednesday that a family was outgrowing

an architect, they created a floor plan that

their house downtown, and here we are.”

kept the exact footprint of the house intact,

Here they are, indeed. The home, first built

with one addition: a new back porch. The

in the 1890s, is storied to be one of the first

heart pine floors throughout the home

in the Covington area. Legend has it that it

are salvaged wood from a Chicago crayon

was built as a wedding gift for the daughter

factory, of all places, but the Redmens

of a wealthy plantation owner, whose former

learned that the wood had originally been

home sits across a modern-day street from

milled in Bogalusa; it was a homecoming

this one. Two lots make up the property;

of sorts to have the floors installed in

this home on the corner and the second

Louisiana.

SophisticatedWoman Woman| |September September 2018 19 Sophisticated

home

20 Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

home Meticulous work on the original wooden windows preserved them for another generation, a true victory in a home of this age. The doors all boast solid brass, period-correct hardware, which Dody adores. She self-managed the project, making every decision with her family in mind. Usability was a key factor and organization a high priority: even Jimmy’s ties have their own compartments in the sleek inset cabinetry of the custom closet. “I love looking at all the fabrics in their own little squares,” she laughs. “And the inset style just makes everything look so neat all the time.” Modernizing areas like the kitchen and bathrooms was a priority, but classic material selections like Carrara marble and panel-style shutters keep the look from becoming overly contemporary.

The front door and its sidelights were also restored, letting light flood freely into the wide center hall and the library that sits at the front corner of the home. The view of crepe myrtles through the bay window makes this spot a favorite for the couple, who both love to read. “It’s such a happy room. We spend as much time in there as we can,” says Dody, and Jimmy agrees. The home has four fireplaces, but only three chimneys; as was somewhat common in the old days, two rooms shared one chimney.

Now, the center hall fireplace has been re-lined for use as a true woodburning fireplace, adding a touch of old Southern charm that is visible from multiple rooms of the house.

The neighborhood itself adds to the delight of the property. Streets here are drivable, but are more often filled with residents walking dogs and visiting with their neighbors. Jimmy laughs about trying to teach four-yearold William about safety on the road, and having the boy ask, “What cars, Daddy?” Dody, herself from a closeknit community in central Louisiana, loves the charisma of these few blocks where the water is close, but the

The home, first BUILT IN THE 1890s, is storied to be

ONE OF THE FIRST in the COVINGTON area. Legend has it that it was BUILT AS A WEDDING GIFT for the daughter of a wealthy plantation owner.

people are closer. Combine a couple who counts their blessings daily with a precious young son and a beautiful historic property, and here stands the happiest house in town.

Sophisticated Woman | September 2018 21

cover story

Nurturing Talent with Confidence WRITTEN BY CINDY LOBERT PHOTOS BY STEVE RANDON

GROWING UP AS a self-proclaimed tomboy

ENTERPRISING WOMAN

CELESTE HART 22 Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

in Slidell, the last thing Celeste Marcussen Hart thought she’d do was go to acting and modeling school, let alone own one. But when the fishing and sports enthusiast turned 18, her mom said a little “polishing” couldn’t hurt.

So in her first year at college, Hart found herself learning how to work the runway and pose for the camera at an acting and modeling school. “I didn’t even wear makeup and here I was learning to model,” she laughs.

The school didn’t come through on their promise of making her a star, but Hart found the experience invaluable. It raised her selfconfidence, increased her poise and taught her how to speak in front of an audience.

Upon graduating with a degree in drama and communications, she signed with a local agency where she booked runway, promotional modeling and acting jobs. She did so well that she was able to pay for college, a car and living expenses.

While Hart enjoyed the work, she set her sights on something higher. She often thought about her time in acting and modeling school and the ways the experience could be improved. She had that blueprint in mind seven years ago when she started Creating U, an acting and modeling academy in Covington. She wanted Creating U to offer smaller classes, more individualized attention and no overblown promises.

“My reputation means a lot to me,” she said. “We’re not a fly-by-night company that takes your money, promises you the moon and doesn’t deliver. We’re very serious about what we do and the skills our students develop.” When the business first opened, Hart’s students started with small roles and bookings. As her reputation grew, so did her business. The local bookings became national, the acting roles became bigger and now some 80-90 students have agents and managers both here in the South and in California.

From the outside, Creating U looks like any other tenant in a strip shopping mall. But inside it’s a whole different story. The vibe is distinctly “Hollywood Northshore,” with plush purple furniture, gold walls and funky chandeliers. Large movie posters featuring the work of former students line the walls. Down

the hall, there are rooms for the would-be actors and models that resemble miniature movie sets, complete with lighting, cameras and backdrops. There’s even a runway for modeling students.

Hart says she’s ecstatic for her models who go on to bigger things. She’s thrilled when one of her actors lands a role with a blockbuster movie. But Hart most treasures the one thing she is able to provide to her young students: the gift of self-confidence.

“Kids who start the classes feeling shy and insecure leave with the feeling that they can conquer anything,” she said. “Parents tell me it’s like they have a whole different child. God gave me the skill to work with people and give them confidence, and it’s so gratifying to watch the transformation.”

And it’s not just kids who are benefiting.

Creating U also caters to professional adults looking to improve their sales technique, be a more effective presenter on and off camera or simply increase their poise. “Modeling and acting school isn’t just for models and actors,” Hart said. “While we do have students whose focus is just that, many teens and adults come to us for help achieving their personal and professional goals.” To that end, Creating U offers an eight-week course called “Life Etiquette” that covers such subjects as body

language, making and continuing conversation, interviewing, first impressions, social skills, public speaking, life skills, dining and more.

It’s become so popular that the academy has expanded into onsite corporate training, combining Life Etiquette and another course called Improv. “Improv helps business people become better listeners, which is crucial in business settings,” Hart said. “It helps people get out of their own heads so they can genuinely relate to and focus on the other person.”

Like many business owners, Hart struggles with work and life balance. But Creating U has also become a family affair, with all three of her children involved in acting, in major movie productions, no less. Hart and her daughter have had roles in the same movie (Hot Pursuit with Reese Witherspoon and Sofia Vergara), which was partially filmed at her home in Folsom. “Who gets to do that?” she marvels.

As for the future of Creating U, Hart is thinking about franchising — one day. For now she’s happy guiding and motivating her students to be the best they can be. “It’s truly inspirational to watch shy children blossom in just eight short weeks,” she says. “They make the sacrifices worthwhile.”

Creating U is located at 69154 Highway 190 E. Service Road in Covington. For more information, please call 985-893-2218 or visit creatingu.com.

Sophisticated Woman | September 2018 23

fashion

From casual

to cocktails take a basic piece or a theme color and build a wardrobe to transform from day into night.

Casual Chic

Ladies WhoLunch

Black sleeveless tunic, $12; White fishnet cardi, $56 – Columbia Street Mercantile

Rose open-front cardi, $22; Black sleeveless tunic, $12;

Silver circle & drop earrings, $19 – Shoeffle’

Rose drop earrings, $80; Printed silk scarf, $28 – Suella

Professional Polish

Dine-n-Dazzle

Camel faux-suede coat, $69; Black sleeveless tunic, $12; Gold metal & druzy earrings, $16 & Necklace, $32 – Columbia Street Mercantile

Sleeveless black tunic, $12; Silver hoop earrings with rhinestone drop, $10; Silver pearl & tassel necklace, $34; Sky blue sheer scarf $5

24Hermes Sophisticated Woman 2018 vintage scarf,| September $598 – Covet

Rose gold sunglasses, $10 – Columbia Street Mercantile

– Columbia Street Mercantile

Whether at

fashion

home or at work, it's easy to transition with a quick change of hair, makeup and accessories!

Casual Chic

Ladies WhoLunch

Washed gray graphic tee, $98; Gold exaggerated chain-link earrings, $70 & bracelet, $85;

Black sleeveless tunic, $12 – Columbia Street Mercantile

White sunglasses, $178 – Covet

Gold exaggerated chain-link necklace, $125 – Covet

Floral and tiger print kimono, $172 – Suella Feather drop earrings, $29 – Shoeffle’ Boutique Contact Information:

Columbia Street Mercantile - 985-809-1690 Covet - 985-888-1999 Shoeffle’ - 985-898-6465 Suella - 985-302-5000 Model: Lauren Arguelles Photographer: Cameron Payne Hair and Makeup: Alys Cucinello Location: Air Salon & Blow Dry Bar Covington

Professional Polish

Dine-n-Dazzle

Cherry tomato Italian blazer, $598; Washed gray graphic tee, $98; Gold disc earrings, $65; Gold exaggerated chain-link necklace, $125; White sunglasses, $178; Vintage hand bag with custom details, $1595 – Covet

Platinum satin Italian blazer, $625; Pastel snake-skin print midi dress, $448; Gold multi stone hoop earrings, $42 – Covet Sophisticated Woman | September 2018 25

foodies

On Anniversaries WRITTEN BY ELLIS V. LUCIA

AS JOURNALISTS, THOSE were our darkest days.

There were no lights, no phones, no power—anarchy ruled the streets. Flames floated on water from broken submerged natural gas lines. Tall, black columns of smoke rose from burning, flooded buildings. Citizens roamed the elevated highways pushing shopping carts of children and possessions. It was eerie, dystopian.

But our job was news coverage, and for three weeks, we worked the Katrina story in a cyclone of activity.

My wife, a magazine photographer on contract, hopscotched New Orleans and coastal Louisiana chasing stories for national publication. My photo assignments were specific to the flooded New Orleans area and a regional audience. Each day, we were challenged finding a way into and out of a highly restricted city and its environs. I recall navigating debris in the lawless landscape, mindful of flashpoints for possible trouble. How could a city be so empty and quiet yet feel so ominous? With despair and destruction documented, we returned to a temporary home base in Baton Rouge to report. Each night, we would sit in driveways with fellow journalists to communal dinners fixed by kind neighbors, hungry for news. Eat, work, talk, sleep, get up and repeat. All the while, we hustled to secure our home and pets and find contractors to repair the damage. We were emotionally, mentally and physically drained.

And just 24 days after Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans, the winds of another storm grew into the most powerful Cat 5 hurricane in the history of the Gulf of Mexico. Hurricane Rita’s winds revved to 180 miles per hour, pushing 14 feet of surge as it ballooned in size and rumbled north toward the Sabine Pass.

26 Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

Having been fed a steady diet of Katrina catastrophe coverage, anxious residents in coastal western Louisiana and eastern Texas evacuated into a stalled northbound nightmare of traffic and gas shortages.

Evacuation routes were jammed, tensions rose. The story built as exponentially as the storm itself.

Rita loomed. News crew logistics were reevaluated.

My wife and I, again working for different agencies, were reassigned to imbed with first responders. We drove to Fort Polk the day before landfall to ride out the storm in Quonset huts with the National Guard.

By midnight, the eye of the storm had passed. At dawn, it was safe to board a Blackhawk helicopter and head south to the coast. The crew latched the doors open to make it easier to get unobstructed camera views. We were accustomed to flying in much smaller, slower helicopters for aerial photos, but this flight was a challenge. The pilot was in a hurry. I was seated next to an open door, and a constant blast of 170 mph wind made it almost impossible to lift my camera. We slowed as we flew over Cameron and a sad scene of complete ruin.

As we flew off to another location, my mind wandered to an imagined view. I suddenly remembered hastily cancelled reservations to Italy and a thought came to mind. I leaned forward, looked up at my wife seated facing me, reached for her hand and wished her a happy anniversary. Later that morning, we landed on the tarmac at the airport in Lafayette where we shared a MRE and a long embrace.

My recipe for Spicy Citrus Crab Salad with Avocado that follows is as far from an MRE meal as I could possibly imagine.

foodies

Spicy Citrus Crab Salad With Avocado Ingredients: 2 large Hass avocados, chilled and cut in half ½ pound lump crabmeat

Dressing for Crab Salad: 3 tablespoons olive oil

I tablespoon serrano, Hatch or jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped fine

3 tablespoons canola oil

½ teaspoon garlic minced

3 tablespoons lemon juice

3 tablespoons French shallots, finely chopped

3 tablespoons lime juice

Pinch of white pepper

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

Pinch of cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Splash of hot sauce

½ tablespoon honey

Sea salt and black pepper to taste

Directions: 1. Cut avocados in half. Brush each cut with lemon juice. You can choose to peel each half or serve in the skin and eat with a spoon.

2. Whisk the lemon, lime, mayo, mustard and honey together. Slowly whisk in the olive and canola oils to make an emulsion.

3. Add the garlic, chili pepper, shallots and spices.

5. Stir and set aside for 30 minutes or make beforehand and refrigerate.

6. Season the avocado lightly with salt and pepper.

7. Spoon half of the dressing on the avocado halves.

8. Add as much dressing to the crabmeat as you’d like and toss gently.

9. Spoon crab salad into avocado halves and serve with your favorite crackers.

Sophisticated Woman | September 2018 27

fashion

Tailgating Togs!

Left: Isabella LSU paw-print smocked dress $54 – Olive Patch Purple and gold sandals, $34 - $42 – Joe’s Family Shoe Store Sarah Purple picot knit dress, $39, yellow fringe drop necklace, $12 – Columbia Street Mercantile Clear, game-day crossbody, $20 – Mike's Den Taupe perforated open-toe booties, $112 – Cameo Boutique Nolan White paw-print tee & shorts set, $54 – Olive Patch Saddle Brown sandals, $34-$44 – Joe’s Family Shoe Store

Right: Addy Purple & gold stripped rugby dress, $50 – Fashions for Kids, Purple tie-die necklace, $14 – Olive Patch Gray quilted sneakers, $40 - $55 – Joe’s Family Shoe Store William LSU long-sleeve fishing shirt, $65 – Mike’s Den Gray men’s running shoes, $85 – Joe’s Family Shoe Store Austin LSU T-Shirt, $24 – Olive Patch Boys’ jeans, $32 – Fashions for Kids Gray boys running shoes, $40-$55 – Joe’s Family Shoe Store

28 Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

fashion

Game Day Gear!

Left: Nolan Black & gold fleur de lis smocked romper $52 – Fashions for Kids, Saddle brown boys’ sandals, $34-$44 – Joe’s Family Shoe Store Sarah Women’s Saints lace-up neckline shirt, $44 – Mike’s Den Dark-rinse skinny jeans, $188 – Cameo Boutique Tan western mules, $140 – Cameo Boutique Isabella Black & gold fleur-de-lis smocked dress, $52 – Fashions for Kids Black & gold grosgrain ribbon bow, $16 – Fashions for Kids White leather sneakers, $34 – Joe’s Family Shoe Store

Right: Austin Black & gold rugby, $34 – Fashions for Kids Boys jeans, $32 – Fashions for Kids Gray boy’s running shoes, $40-$55 – Joe’s Family Shoe Store Addy Gold velvet dress with pockets, $120 – Olive Patch Black & gold grosgrain ribbon bow, $16 – Olive Patch Quilted black ballet shoes, $65 – Olive Patch William Black & gray tonal tropical Saints shirt, $145 – Mike’s Den Saints baseball cap, $25 – Mike’s Den

Boutique Contact Information:

Cameo Boutique985-231-1332 Columbia Street Mercantile - 985-809-1789 Fashions for Kids - 985-626-4848 Joe’s Family Shoe Store - 985-626-5633 Mike’s Den - 985-626-9668 Olive Patch - 985-327-5772 e Location: Times Grill in Mandeville Sophisticated Woman | September 2018 29

sophisticated shopper

WITH A NOD to our original name and purpose, Sophisticated Woman’s retail program offers local businesses maximum exposure.

Contact us to reserve your ad space today!

email: lorie@sophisticatedwoman.com

Sophisticated The

Shopper

Program For Retailers 30 Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

Tony Normand - A Man With A Mission A LOUISIANA NATIVE, Tony Normand is the man behind the magic at Mandeville Coatings. Through his business, his expertise and his years of experience, he has found a passion and a purpose in empowering single mothers of St. Tammany.

A painter by trade, Normand knows the value of having specialized skills in particular areas of construction and renovation.

He also knows that women tend to pay close attention to detail.

Why then, he wondered, are there not more women on job sites doing the intricate, detail-oriented work? Normand is out to change this, and with a heart-warming purpose. He is breaking barriers with a new concept he is calling Painting Ladies Creating Legacies.

Normand’s mission is to empower single mothers who want to support themselves. One of five children raised by a single mother, Normand knows just how hard some women struggle to raise a family alone. He has made it his mission to hire women who just need a break. He teaches them very specialized skills in a way that does not require extensive training and allows them to begin making money immediately.

Normand notes that he is on every jobsite to oversee every aspect, every step of the way. He stands behind his Painting Ladies 100 percent.

He adds that while some are skeptical, many clients in fact prefer that his crews are predominantly female. He does strive to play fair

though and does not exclusively employ women. He finds that having men around to do the heavy lifting is usually beneficial.

In addition to on-the-job training, Normand seeks to promote continued growth for his employees. His project manager, Christina Knight, is his original Painting Lady. A single mother who once struggled to keep a roof over her babies’ heads, Knight is now a selfsufficient woman running her own crew. Normand knows that all his employees have the potential to flourish this way, and his goal is to give them the resources.

Normand explains that he has always felt compelled to give back and help others. He says that though his family had very little, it was always a priority to give to the needy. As an adult, Normand has felt especially heartbroken by homelessness yet found himself unfulfilled by his work with local food banks. He says they opened his eyes to a broken system that was easily abused. He searched and prayed for a genuine way to give back and ultimately found that this was his calling.

Normand knows that most people would rather be given the tools to support themselves than lean on a system that doesn't work, and he has found his purpose in doing just that. “I just want to help good people make an honest living,” he says.

For more information, please contact us at 985-242-0588 (cell) or 985-242-0588 (office), or contact project manager Christina Knight at 985-807-1140.

Sophisticated Woman | September 2018 31

lifestyle

S.O.S. WRITTEN BY DR. MARY SPEED

SOS IS THE MORSE

NOW OPEN! 2130 Monroe Street in Old Mandeville 985-629-4075 | Like us on Facebook

Paige Massey, DVM Alissa Whitney, DVM 32 Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

code statement for distress. The letters have been defined by some people to mean SAVE OUR SOULS. The letters are not an acronym but an international signal of distress. Yes, this morse code signal from a ship might mean the ship is sinking, or it could mean that someone on board needs medical attention. In everyday life, lights don’t emit from people alerting others of distress. Clues, however, may be noticeable.

The clues can be blatant and difficult to ignore. Some of us can recall television episodes of Lassie when the dog would “hound” a human to get help in rescuing another human. Our own pets can let us know too when they are in distress. Knowing their usual behavior is what lets us know when something is not right. When your pet refuses his favorite snack or shies away from greeting you or hides behind you, you know something is off. The key is knowing the pet.

I believe one of the reasons a person's distress can go unnoticed is that no one knows them.

Consequently, a behavior usually present can go absent, and no one witnesses that the person has quit changing clothes or eating. Unless you know the person, other signs of distress like running in circles and talking to oneself can be overlooked, too.

Another reason that people in distress go unnoticed is that no one can imagine they are having trouble. The Titanic sent numerous SOS signals which were not taken seriously until it was too late. Who could imagine that a ship with so much going for it could have hit something so huge that its integrity was compromised?

If your SOS is going undetected, go to the nearest emergency room, dial 211 or the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Other resources include suicidepreventionlifeline.org, imalive.org and veteranscrisisline.net.

gardening

Fall-ing for Your Garden WRITTEN BY LISA RIBBECK LYONS

FINALLY, AN END to the long, hot summer is in sight! Leaves will start falling and the garden will soon transition into a sleepy mode. Now is the time for raking, mulching and enjoying the last blooms of summer. Before you spread the mulch, take a minute to spread some coffee grounds around your camellia and azalea bushes. Use a shovel with a long spade to turn the grounds into the soil. This will provide a touch of acid to the soil that watering and summer rains have washed away. If any of your summer bloomers have gone to seed, shaking the seeds over that same plant area may encourage them to reoccur next year. After these chores, deadhead and trim finished plantings. Now, spread an inch or so of winter mulch.

If you planted herbs this summer, trim and pot them for a trip to an indoor kitchen window.

It’s nice to have some fresh basil, thyme or rosemary to add to your salad. This is also a great time to plant bulbs for the spring—daffodils, tulips or hyacinths. Split lilies and monkey grass and replant where needed in the garden.

Clean and repair your bird feeders and bird baths. Soon, the feathered friends will be visiting your garden as they make their way even further south. Some will decide to stay if winter promises to be mild here and your garden is well stocked with berries and seed. Don’t forget the hummingbirds! A plastic feeder will cost under $10, and it’s very easy to keep a sugar solution mixed and ready to fill the feeder. Mix four parts water to one part sugar, heat to dissolve the sugar, stir well and you are ready to put a treat out for the little dynamos!

Enjoy nature’s fall treats, and don’t forget the same breezes that send the multi-colored leaves down to decorate the lawn are the perfect way to air out the multi-colored sweaters you have hanging in the closet. Fall-ing with nature is certainly the only way to fall! Happy gardening!

Sophisticated Woman | September 2018 33

gift guides

1

GiftGuides 2

health

The Sweet Truth WRITTEN BY JOY FELDMAN, NC JD

TODAY, MORE THAN BABY BALLERINA BUNDLES starting at $75. Includes: fashion leotard, tap shoes, ballet shoes and tights, $115 with bow and bag added.

Kindred Couture, 647 E I-10 Service Road, Slidell, 985-445-1252

34 Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

HANDMADE LEATHER FEATHER EARRINGS Made in NOLA, price ranges from $26-$30 Simply Chic Boutique, 1357 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, 985-778-2010 simplychicusa.com

18 percent of schoolaged children are obese. The leading cause of this national epidemic is the overconsumption of sugar. The World Health Organization issued a recommendation in 2015 that everyone, regardless of age, should restrict his or her sugar intake to less than 10 percent of all calories consumed daily. For young children, that’s fewer than 45 grams each day.

Few children can monitor their own sugar intake, nor are they responsible for their own diets. This responsibility falls to the parents. Most of us are not adept at estimating how much sugar is found in foods, so let’s try to think of sugar content in terms of sugar cubes (1 teaspoon sugar equals 1 sugar cube). Educate yourself and learn how much sugar is in fruits and yogurts, and think of these items in terms of cubes. Four ounces of apple juice contains three teaspoons of sugar, which equates to three cubes.

A study conducted at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development discovered that 75 percent of parents underestimated the amount of sugar in foods. Sugars found in yogurt were grossly miscalculated by about seven sugar cubes or 60 percent of total sugar in a serving. The study also showed that these miscalculations significantly correlated to the child’s body weight.

Children with the highest body-mass index (BMI) had parents who tended to underestimate sugar content. Most noteworthy was that this study found that a “health halo” surrounding foods like fruit juice and yogurts caused parents to misjudge sugar contents.

Parents, please take note to help your children achieve optimal health by learning sugar servings in those presumably “healthful” foods.

Here’s to your health!

entertaining

We've Got Spirits...Yes We Do! SEPTEMBER MEANS SPORTS! And sports means gatherings with friends and family...and tailgating before the game!

Try some of our favorite gametime drinks that are sure to score big points before, during and after festivities.

Quarterback Sneak

Down By Contact

2 large tea bags for iced tea ½ cup boiling water 8 fresh mint sprigs 4 cups lemonade ½ cup vodka Lemon slices

2 ounces bourbon ¾ ounce simple syrup 3 ounces orange juice 1 ½ ounces lemon juice Mint

Add tea bags and boiling water to a medium bowl. Steep about five minutes.

Place mint sprigs in large pitcher and muddle until slightly bruised. Pour in tea, lemonade and vodka. Cover and chill. Serve in ice-filled highball glasses garnished with lemon slices.

Muddle three orange wheels and three lemon wheels in a rocks glass. Fill the glass to the top with crushed ice. Add simple syrup and bourbon. Stir. Top with crushed ice and garnish with a sprig of mint.

Incomplete Passout

Icing the Kicker

Salt 3 ounces tequila 3 ounces lime juice 8 ounces blue sports drink

4 fresh or frozen blackberries, thawed 5 fresh mint leaves 1 lime wedge ¼ cup club soda, chilled 1½ ounces light rum

Dampen the rim of the glass, and roll it in salt. Fill glass with ice. Mix tequila, lime juice and sports drink. Pour into glass.

Muddle the blackberries and mint. Squeeze lime wedge into the glass.

Stir in club soda and rum. Strain into a chilled glass and add ice.

Sophisticated Woman | September 2018 35

health

business

Fearing Dentures?

Dental Implants Can Help WRITTEN BY DR. CHARLES SCHOF

CONVENTIONAL

The Importance of Branding Your Business WRITTEN BY ELISE APFFEL

YOU MAY HAVE heard CEOs talk about their businesses' brands, and how the brand is "going in a new direction." Or an employee may say an action or statement was "off brand."

But what exactly does that mean? What is a business’s brand? And is branding even needed for a company to succeed?

Let’s start with the first question: what is a business’s brand? A business’s brand is the allencompassing feeling or tone the business projects. This is achieved by the product or service offered along with the logo design, font style, colors, imagery and message they project. I would argue that it is vital for a business to be well branded in order to stand out in our overly saturated, visual world. Branding helps differentiate the product or service from competitors in the market. And over time, a company’s brand becomes associated with a certain level of credibility, quality and value. A strong brand will help potential customers make decisions based on prior feelings or emotions connected to the business's product or service.

Now that we know what branding is, how does one choose how to brand his or her business?

First, consider the type of product or service you are offering. Determine the appropriate voice for that service or product and who your competitors are. You’ll want to stand out from the crowd. Then, research your target demographic and learn about the things they are drawn to.

Create your brand based on these factors. The logo of your business is a great place to start. Use the colors, type treatments and style from your logo to expand your brand. You’ll want to stay close to the style originally chosen based on your targeted demographics. Is the voice or tone of your service a match with the audience you want to capture? Consistency is key in the beginning! Stick to a certain set of colors, fonts and visuals to establish the look of your brand.

Elise Apffel is a graphic artist for Gallinghouse Marketing + Creative.

Gallinghouse is located at 409 W. 21st Ave., Covington. For more information, call 985-893-7631 or visit gallinghouse.com.

36 Sophisticated Woman | September 2018

DENTURES

HAVE

always presented an affordable option for those struggling with missing or unhealthy teeth. At minimum, a denture should deliver optimal position, shape and color of what a patient would have with natural, healthy teeth. Even with wellmade dentures, however, it’s not uncommon to deal with inconvenient functional limitations that cause trouble with tough foods like breads and meats or leafy salads.

Professionals and seniors who saw their parents struggle with ill-fitting dentures may be fearful of the impact dentures could have on their lifestyle and confidence. The advancement of dental implant technology provides healthy alternatives, allowing patients leave the dental adhesive behind.

The ADVANCEMENT of dental implant TECHNOLOGY provides healthy ALTERNATIVES, allowing patients LEAVE THE DENTAL ADHESIVE behind.

Dental implants provide the necessary stimulation for bone health, helping patients to combat bone loss caused by the absence of teeth. Bone loss can contribute to a sunken facial appearance in long-time denture wearers.

Since dental implants do not sit on the gum line, patients can also eliminate irritating sore spots.

Just two dental implants, with an implantsupported restoration called an overdenture, can improve a denture’s functionality. A full mouth restoration, supported on five or six dental implants, can efficiently replace a whole arch of teeth with an uncovered palate.

With today’s dental technology, you don’t need to struggle with ill-fitting dentures. Dental implants can help patients to enjoy the foods they love and the quality of life they deserve.

Dr. Charles Schof practices at the Mandeville Center for Dental Excellence located at 240 Dalwill Drive in Mandeville. Call 985-626-4401 or visit charlesschof.com for information.

community

KIDS BEING KIDS FHS Cheerleaders Hold Camp, Donation Drive Fontainebleau High School cheerleaders held their annual "Kiddie Camp" fundraiser clinic this summer at the school. Some 200 children learned cheerleading skills such as cheers, chants, dances and stunting. The cheerleaders held a donation drive in conjunction with the camp. The team collected seven boxes of hygiene items for Our Friend’s Closet, a nonprofit that assists homeless and low-income students. Pictured in the front row are Megan Astugue, Cierra Bradberry, Caroline Whalley, Emma Flucke, Ashlyn Martinez, Emma Oalmann and Avery Sharp. In the middle row are Bailey Singleton, Alyssa Battistella, Phoebe Madona, Callie Dufrene, Callie Varnado, Carley Pizzuto, Tammy Rallis, Kaitlin Gagnon and Deaven Hathcox. In the back row are Michael Cartner, Kylie Kieff, Haley Martin, Bailey Dugas, Jesalyn Garcia, Hope von Eberstein, Chandler Dalton, Josi Howe and Dalvin Brown.

Girl Scouts Earn Scholarships Seven graduating Girl Scouts received the Girl Scouts Louisiana East’s Cookies to College Scholarship. Scholarship recipients include: Bridget Adam, Kenner; Shelby Blache, Mandeville; Ceci Falkenstein, Mandeville; Heather O’Mahoney, Mandeville; Desiree Poche, Gretna; Morgan Ruoss, New Orleans; and Caitlin Weid, Covington. The $1,000 scholarships are awarded each year to outstanding college bound Girl Scout Ambassadors whose participation in Girl Scouts, along with the Cookie Program, has led them to success and leadership. “All of our scholarship recipients have left a mark on their troops and our council as a whole with their hard work and dedication to Girl Scouts,” said Alisha Moore, Chief Customer Experience Officer. “The hard and soft skills they have learned with us will lead them to success and greatness.”

Lakeview Regional Honors Junior Volunteers Lakeview Regional Medical Center honored 24 junior volunteers’ 675 hours of service at an appreciation party in August. The junior volunteers amassed the hours during June and July. The junior volunteers assisted in many areas of the hospital including admitting, radiology, emergency room, outpatient surgery, cath lab, labor and delivery and outpatient rehab. Each volunteer received a gift from Lakeview in appreciation for their dedication and commitment. The 2018 junior volunteers are: Precious Amiewalan, Madison Cacioppo, Gunnar Colwell, Elizabeth Coyne, Kaylee Drucker, Kennedy Flauss, Mary Claire Gianoli, Jayda Harrell, Noelle Hudson, Christian Kennedy, Kylie Kieff, Nicole Kieff, Ethan Leggio, Thomas Maitre, Meya McMillen, Megan Moore, Ethan Ovella, Maggie Pierson, Emory Powell, Zoe Schuster, Rachael Stapleton, Nicole Talamo, Caera Taylor and Mia Treeby.

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NOTES & NOTEABLES COAST Honors Six Seniors at Gala Six St. Tammany Parish seniors were recognized for their contributions to their communities by the St. Tammany Council on Aging (COAST) at its inaugural Every Moment Counts awards in August. Recipients were Elizabeth Dupuy, a dedicated volunteer at the Lacombe senior center; Houston Anthony, who grows food to sell at local farmers markets, despite hearing and vision challenges; Gene Bellisario, a parish councilman and active community volunteer; John Carver, an AARP Driver Safety instructor; Ella Mae Selmon, a volunteer with myriad Northshore organizations; and Becky Gilly, a volunteer at Lakeview Regional Medical Center who uses STAR transit to get back and forth from the hospital each day. The winners are pictured with Julie Agan, COAST’s executive director.

49th Class Graduates from North Oaks School of Radiologic Technology The 49th class of the North Oaks School of Radiologic Technology graduated in June. Graduates include Nicolai Cannizzaro, Cardell Dudley, Kaylee Gough, Elizabeth Hennington, Korey Hymel, Megan Jacob, Ansley Jarreau, Kelsey Lee, Brittany Moore, Hunter Moran and Chelsea Rogers. The two-year program includes 2,000 clinical hours, 1,200 classroom hours and 400 exams and quizzes.

Moran received the Academic Achievement Award for obtaining the highest overall scholastic average, and Jacob received the Performance and Attitude Award for exceptional performance in the clinical setting.

Cannizzaro, Gough, Jacob, Jarreau and Moran were recognized as members of Lambda Nu, a national honor society for the Radiologic and Imaging Sciences.

Weeks Marine Donates to Northshore Technical Community College Weeks Marine, a marine construction and dredging company based in New Jersey, has donated $500,000 to Northshore Technical Community College’s maritime training program and scholarship fund. Richard “Dick” Weeks, chairman of Weeks Marine, visited the campus to view progress on the construction of NTCC’s second building at its Lacombe Campus. A longtime supporter of higher education and workforce training, Weeks announced a personal contribution of $250,000 to support local maritime efforts and to secure state-of-the-art training equipment for students. Also in attendance were members of Weeks Marine’s senior leadership team, Richard S. Weeks, Eric Ellefsen and Patrick Whelan, who announced a corporate match of $250,000 to establish a scholarship endowment to support students seeking maritime-related career fields. “Northshore Technical Community College is humbled by the generosity of Mr. Weeks and Weeks Marine for making this investment in our community and students,” NTCC Chancellor William Wainwright said.

This is the second donation Weeks Marine has made NTCC since 2016, for a total investment of $750,000.

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NOTES & NOTEABLES Clearwood Welcomes Community Leaders Clearwood Junior High embraces the 2018-2019 St. Tammany Parish Public School’s theme “We will…

Connect” by inviting local community leaders to help welcome their students and staff back to school. Pictured in the back row are Sgt. Gonzales, Sheriff Randy Smith, Sgt. Matthews, Laci Cartwright, Superintendent Trey Folse, Associate Superintendent Regina Sanford, School Board President Robin Mullet, Public Information Officer Jason Gaubert, Assistant Principal Jessica Venezia, Deputy Madison Barbin, Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer and Principal Brian Hirstius. In the front row are McKenzie Daigle, Rocky the Cougar and Hunter Roby.

Trauma Surgeon Joins North Oaks Medical Center

Charity Raises Money for Homeless Students Our Friend’s Closet hosted a Bunco fundraiser in July at Fat Jacks in Slidell to raise money to provide free hygiene products to homeless and low income junior high and high school students. To learn more about the organization, search for @ourfriendscloset01 on Facebook.

Dr. Shahrzad Talebinejad has joined the North Oaks Medical Center Shock Trauma team. Talebinejad graduated from the the University of Maryland and earned a medical degree from the Medical University of the Americas in Nevis, West Indies. She then completed a general surgery residency at Ochsner Medical Center, followed by a trauma and critical care surgery fellowship through University Medical Center, both in New Orleans.

Talebinejad volunteered in the emergency department of Shady Grove Hospital in Rockville, Maryland. She also worked as an emergency medical technician with the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department in Maryland.

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SEPTEMBER CALENDAR 1–9 “Annie,” presented by Slidell Little Theatre. 2024 Nellie Drive, Slidell, 985-641-0324, slidelllittletheatre.org.

1–29 Small Group Wine Tasting, presented by Barrel Wine Bar. 6–7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights, $25, 69305 Highway 21, Covington, 985-272-8485.

7 Northshore Food Truck Roundup, 5:30–8:30 p.m., Abita Brewing Company, 166 Barbee Road, Covington, abita.com.

7–22 “Murder Among Friends,” presented by Cutting Edge Theater.

767 Robert Blvd., Slidell, 985-649-3727, cuttingedgetheater.com.

8 One Step at a Time, St. Tammany Outreach for the Prevention of Suicide 5th Annual 5K. 8 a.m., Abita Springs Trailhead, getmeregistered.com/stops.

Hoops for Kids Tournament, presented by The Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Louisiana Covington Clubhouse. 7 a.m.–3 p.m., $20 per team of four, Atkins Park, W. 28th Ave., Covington, facebook.com/hoopsforkidscovington.

12 Opera on Tap, 7 p.m., free, reservations recommended, Abita Brew Pub, 72011 Holly St., Abita Springs, 985-892-5837.

Wines by the Class: Wine Tasting 101, 6–8 p.m., free, Avanti Senior Living of Covington, 2234 Watercross Parkway, Covington.

Rerservations required, 985-590-3454 or avantievents.com.

13 Mike Super, presented by OnSTAGE at the Furhmann.

7 p.m., Fuhrmann Auditorium, 317 wN. Jefferson St., Covington, 985-892-1873.

13–14 Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, offered by St. Tammany Outreach for the Prevention of Suicide. $50, stops-la.com.

14 Northlake Newcomers Club Coffee and Social. 10 a.m., Benedict’s Plantation, 1144 North Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, northlakenewcomers.com.

Showcase of Ballroom Dancing, presented by Mandeville Ballroom Dance Studio, 7 p.m., $35, Bogue Falaya Hall, 317 N Jefferson Ave., Covington, 985-966-0178.

Beethoven's Ninth, presented by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. 7:30 p.m., $20-55, First Baptist Church, 16333 Highway 1085, Covington, lpomusic.org.

Pontchartrain Film Festival featuring “Bayou Maharajah,” $10, Dew Drop Jazz and Social Hall, 430 Lamarque St., Mandeville, pontchartrainfilmfestival.com.

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Standing Events EVERY 2ND & 4TH MONDAY SOS Survivors of Suicide Support Group. 6:30–8 p.m., First Baptist Church, 1895 Highway 190, Mandeville, 985-237-5506, stops-la.org.

EVERY TUESDAY, THURSDAY AND SATURDAY Northshore Table Tennis Club, 6:30–9:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. on Saturdays, 22519 Highway 36, Abita Springs.

EVERY WEDNESDAY Covington Farmers Market. 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire St., covingtonfarmersmarket.org.

EVERY 3RD TUESDAY LIFE Lab Lecture Series, presented by Avanti Senior Living. 6 p.m., free, 2234 Watercross Parkway, Covington, avanti-sl.com/events.

EVERY 3RD THURSDAY Women of Infinite Possibilities. 10 a.m.– noon, St. Anthony’s Gardens, 601 Holy Trinity Dr., Covington, 985-867-5234, womenofwip.org.

EVERY THURSDAY AND SATURDAY Lafitte Street Market. 4–8 p.m. on Thursdays; 9 a.m.–1 p.m. on Saturdays, 698 Lafitte St., Mandeville.

EVERY FRIDAY “Legacies for All” Estate Planning. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $500 per basic estate plan that includes a will, power of attorney and living will, Christie Tournet & Associates, 1795 W. Causeway Approach, Suite 103A, Mandeville, 985-951-2177.

Free Wine Tastings at Martin Wine Cellar, 4:30–6:30 p.m. 2895 Highway 190, Mandeville, 985- 951-8081.

EVERY SATURDAY Covington Farmers Market. 8 a.m.–noon, 609 N. Columbia St. on side lawn of the Covington Police Department, covingtonfarmersmarket.org.

Hammond Farmers Market. 8 a.m.–noon, corner of W. Thomas St. and S.W. Railroad Ave., downtown Hammond, 985-277-5680, dddhammond.com.

Camellia City Market. 8 a.m.–noon., 1808 Front St., Slidell, camelliacitymarket.org.

Mandeville Trailhead Community Market. 9 a.m.–1 p.m., Mandeville Trailhead Cultural Interpretive Center, 985-624-3147, mandevilletrailheadmarket.com.

Pearl River’s Honey Island Art and Farmers Market. 10 a.m.–2 p.m., 64378 Highway 41, Pearl River, 985-807-4447.

Covington Brewhouse Tours, 11:30 and 12:30, free, 226 E. Lockwood St., Covington.

EVERY SUNDAY Abita Springs Farmers Market. Noon–4 p.m., Abita Trailhead, 985-807-4447, mrnmedic@gmail.com.

Ponchatoula Farmers Market. Noon–4 p.m., 10 E. Pine St., 504-390-5769.

community 14–29 “Mid-Life, the Crisis Musical,” presented by Cafe Luke Dinner Theater. 153 Robert St., Slidell, 985-707-1597, cafeluke.com.

15 Abita Opry Concert. 6–9 p.m., $18, Abita Springs Town Hall, abitaorpy.org.

15–16 St. Tammany Crab Festival. Event starts at noon with concerts, food, car show and more through evening, $20 per day, kids under 12 free, Heritage Park, Slidell, sttammanycrabfest.com.

16 Third Sunday Concert Series with jazz pianist Tom McDermmott. 5–6 p.m., free, Atrium Gallery at Christwood Retirement Community, 100 Christwood Blvd., Covington.

20–22 Scrap Dat Scrapbooking Event. 8 a.m., prices vary, Castine Center, 63350 Pelican Drive, Mandeville, scrapdatproductions.com.

21 Dew Drop Jazz Hall Fall Concert Series.

6:30–9 p.m., $10 at the door, 430 Lamarque St., Mandeville, dewdropjazzhall.com, 985-624-9604.

Sunset at the Landing Concert. 6–9 p.m., free, Columbia Street Landing, Covington, sunsetatthelanding.org.

22 Work/Play Day at Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. Help clear trails and perform general gardening work, then enjoy lunch and a canoe outing.

9 a.m.–1:30 p.m., free, Big Branch Marsh NWR, 61389 Highway 434, Lacombe, 985-882-2025.

Pearl River Clean Sweep and Wildlife Festival.

9 a.m.–4 p.m., Honey Island Fish House, 65583 Pump Slough Rd., Pearl River, pearlriverkeeper.com.

Spice of Life Women’s Expo. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., $12, Clarion Inn and Suites, 501 N. Highway 190, Covington, spiceoflifewomensexpo.com.

Real Men of St. Tammany, benefiting Safe Harbor.

7 p.m., $125, Northshore Harbor Center 100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell, safeharbornorthshore.org.

Northshore Cajun Dance at Abita Town Hall.

Dance lessons at 7 p.m., live music at 8 p.m., $10 nonmembers/$8 members, Abita Springs Town Hall, 22161 Level St., northshorecajundancers.com.

28 Columbia Street Block Party. 6:30–9:30 p.m., 200500 block of Columbia Street in downtown Covington.

29 Emery Clark Retrospective Opening Reception.

4:30–6:30, free, exhibit continues until Oct. 27, Christwood Atrium Gallery, 100 Christwood Blvd., Covington.

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Kelly Kicking Cancer’s

2018 Gala

Friday,October 5 7-10pm PROCEEDS GO TO ADVANCED BRAIN CANCER RESEARCH

Fleur deLis Event Center

1645 North Causeway Boulevard, Mandeville

Wine Pull Silent Auction Louisiana Cuisine Music Open Bar

Entertainment by

Cocktail Attire Tickets $55 Couple $100 Exclusive table of 8 $500

Tickets available at kellykickingcancer.org or call 844-200-KICK (5425) Untitled-4 1

8/15/18 10:27 PM