Social Northshore | February 2023

FONTAINEBLEAU STATEPARK

LOUISIANA STATE PARKS

“Whether you’re glamping it up at one of our camp sites or cruising along our premier bike trails, there is something for everyone at one of our Northshore state parks. There’s fishing, tubing, canoeing and horseback riding, too! Come join us at any one of our Northshore state parks.”

-Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser

BOGUE STATECHITTOPARK

BOGUE STATECHITTOPARK

TURN THE PAGE ON YOUR NEXT

ADVENTURE

FROM THE EDITOR

Hello, 2023! We have been busy over here working on the exciting features we will share throughout the year for our business leaders and readers. Make sure you are on the lookout for our Social photographers at the upcoming parades across the Northshore.

In this issue, we are going RED and sharing heart-filled stories. Maura and Lauren, the mother and daughter duo, share how they served as co-chairs of the American Heart Association’s Go Red Campaign on the Northshore. SuperMom, Danielle Papania, tells us about her son who had three holes in his heart, and their family’s two-year heart journey. We encourage you to flip to our Impact and Give Back to learn more about HeartGift which is a partner with Children’s Hospital New Orleans to provide surgeries at no cost to the families of children with congenital heart defects (CHD). The strength of all of these families in inspiring.

Now, turn the page to find out who is leading the way in business as Social’s Dynamic Duos, Power Couples, and the Triple Threat. These teams are sharing their story of what led them to their success, and we are thrilled to be able to share with you.

As always, thank you for allowing Social to be a resource for business leaders, local charities and events throughout the Northshore. We are ramping up our parade coverage so be sure to come back in March for our Mardi Gras Review issue!

JEN MEADOWS Editor, Social Northshore

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On the Cover: Samantha Capdeboscq, Candice Sledge, Rachel Rebouche, and Bailey Martin-PWST President

JOIN US IN THE ARENA

PUBLISHER

David Renfro

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Jen Meadows

COPY EDITOR

Lana Cagle

SALES

Jen Meadows | 985.687.8980

David Renfro | 731.499.1414

Trish Trahan | 985.773.4280

PHOTOGRAPHY

Casey Varnado | Katie Ulmer

Kha Tran | Sherri Howard

Leslie Bear | Melissa Calico

Aaryn Crews | Donielle Barnes

John Starrett | Mia Jolie Photography

Home by Summer Davis Photography Wedding by The Crawfords

Photography and Film

STAFF WRITER

Liesel Schmidt

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kayla Bertucci

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Kim Mesman & Chris Shenk

SOCIAL NORTHSHORE MAGAZINE

www.socialnorthshore.com

Stay Connected:

@SocialNorthshore @SocialNorthshore

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

COLOR ME RED

As mother and daughter, Maura Donahue and Lauren Andrews have a close relationship, but the two also work together at DonahueFavret Contractors, Inc., where Maura is partner and EVP of the commercial construction company and Lauren the Business Development Coordinator as well as a partner. While they may see a great deal of each other at work, the mother and daughter duo also served as co-chairs of the American Heart Association’s Go Red Campaign on the Northshore.

“In 2020 when the American Heart Association brought the Go Red for Women luncheon to the Northshore, Mom and I attended it,” says Andrews. “We have been supporters of the organization for many years and have always had a great deal of respect for the work that the non-profit does. I was truly impressed by the number of women that came together to show their support for the Go Red message. Fast forward to a year later, around April of 2021, and Mom and I had a meeting with Brittany Gay and Tricia Otis. They were wondering if the two of us would be interested in co-chairing the 2022 campaign. Honestly, there was not much for us to think about—we were in!”

Both women have personal reasons for advocating heart health, making them all the more passionate about spreading the message of Go Red’s annual campaign. “Heredity and lifestyle are huge factors in our heart health during our lifetime,” says Donahue. “You can’t alter your heredity, but you can be aware of the risks you face because of your family history. Lifestyle is one we can do something about, and being aware of the factors that cause heart issues is critical to our lifespan and the quality of that lifespan. I lost my grandfather when he was 48 years old to a massive heart attack, and I later lost my father to the same—probably a combination of heredity but also unhealthy life choices. My sweet husband, Jack, had open heart surgery 25 years ago for double bypass. So this is all very personal to me. I want to make sure my children know their heredity and can make good choices. Looking forward, I fear for our grandchildren. I guess it all comes down to educating ourselves, our children and our grandchildren on the importance of their heart health.”

Adds Andrews, “One of my best friends growing up and my roommate at LSU, Meredith Harmon, suffered an ischemic stroke when we were in our early 30s. I will never forget how it felt getting that phone call. She showed an exceptional amount of courage and strength during her recovery, and I am even more grateful for her today knowing everything that she has endured. The Go Red message is intended to be heard by

all women, in all communities, across the globe. The number one killer of women is cardiovascular disease, but instead of just accepting that statistic, there is a lot that we can do about it. Eighty percent of cardiac events can be prevented by education and lifestyle changes. It starts with eating right and exercising more. The Go Red for Women mission is to end heart disease and stroke in women. It is also working to increase the number of women in STEM careers and increasing access to health care for all.”

The women’s roles as co-chairs meant a year of raising awareness and much-needed funds for the Go Red campaign, as well as planning, coordinating, and hosting the luncheon in addition to meeting on a regular basis with the team at the American Heart Association. “The time we served as co-chairs was special,” says Andrews. “First and foremost, while I am used to working with my mom, for us to have the opportunity to volunteer together was memorable. We worked hard together, we laughed together, and hopefully ended up making a difference together. It was a blessing, and it was humbling to be asked to lead the efforts of a campaign like this. It was also an opportunity to meet a lot of incredible ladies in the community that I would not have known otherwise. We heard stories from survivors of strokes that would not leave a dry eye in the room.

We also heard the touching words of those who have lost loved ones too young due to cardiovascular disease. Knowing that those stories can happen to anyone, in any community, anywhere is what motivated us to spread the Go Red message. I honestly love the process of trying to make a difference, regardless how big or small it is. Volunteering and fundraising for non-profits is something that I genuinely enjoy.”

“It’s been such a joy to work with the AHA staff and the Executive Leadership Team we recruited in 2021,” agrees Donahue. “We are so blessed on the Northshore to have such a talented and philanthropic group of ladies who are not afraid to share their time or talent.”

In the time that Donahue and Andrews co-chaired the Go Red for Women campaign, they collectively raised over $200,000. “We were able to raise money to be used for educating people about their own heart health, and if anyone left that luncheon and told their children about the dangers of vaping or questioned their own lifestyle choices or shared what they learned with someone they love,” Donahue says, “I’d say the event was a tremendous success.”

“We hope that women continue to support other women to live healthier, longer lives—because we are all worth it!” says Andrews.

At LN Hughes Funeral Services, we are dedicated to making a difficult time easier. As a family owned and operated funeral home, we will work with you to create a memorable service that honors your loved one and affordably meets your needs.

DESIGNS

Holiday Market

It was a busy and fun day at The Southern Hotel with it’s annual Sip & Shop Holiday Market. Plenty of people showed up to shop local and see what all of the vendors had to offer. All while getting to enjoy the beautiful hotel Christmas decor. What a great way to start the Christmas season!

Jessica Gilmore, Lana Cagle, and Stephanie Milner

Lindsay Carnegie and Olivia Cangiamilla

Jerry Kern and Christopher Walker

Amy Palmer and deSha Gernon

Erin Bourgeois, Lincoln Bourgeois, Shelby Coleman, and Sherry Bourgeois Christina Reed, Amy Donald, Tammie LeBert, and Jeri Firmin

Rachel Crawford and Tia Cronin

Lindsey and Beth Owens

Tabitha Ledbetter Amber Littlejohn, and Caley Wilson

Brandi McAndrew and Cayla Ohler

Photos by Melissa Calico

Meradith Browne and Lauren Rich Laura Zambiasi and Trollie Estes

Caroline d’Hemecourt, Andrea Oser, and Jane d’Hemecourt

Leah Gentile, Kim Kelly, Dale Catalinotto, and Diane Vervaeke

Bentley Boldt, Lana Cagle, and Danielle Papania

Amy Bethke and Karen Cutrell

Cheryl Murphy and Laurel Crosby Charmaine and Michael Coyle

Rikki Heacock, Dana Hines, Lindsay Amato, and Sarah Villardo

Eileen Schwegmann and Robin Jordan

Yvette Jemison, Stephanie Rush, and Kelly Blum

Angie Daughdrill and Julie Enstice

Lexi Mixon and Katie Foret Lauren Read and Nancy Jean Read Shannon Davis and Kristi Indovina

TRIPLE Threat

SCOTT, GRACE &SCOTT, II

STORY BY LIESEL SCHMIDT // PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEN MEADOWS

They say that diamonds are forever, and for the owners of Johnson Diamond Jewelers, that statement is the perfect analogy for their family business, which has become a legacy…like a lasting heirloom.

Married 32 years, Grace and Scott met in Santa Monica, CA, in 1989, while attending college to receive their Graduate Gemologist degrees from the world-renowned Gemological Institute of America (GIA). As the son of a jeweler, Scott is a natural in the diamond and jewelry industry and watched his father grow the business to become a supplier for corporate and independent jewelry stores. With the same drive, Scott and Grace continued to keep the Johnson name a polished one in the jewelry industry. Now a third-generation diamond wholesale jeweler, Johnson Diamond Jewelers is still a family affair, with each of Scott and Grace’s four children playing a role in the company.

Each playing to their respective strengths, Scott and Grace define the word “partner” in their work. “Scott has many

long-time connections in the industry and is able to source diamonds and offer wholesale prices to our clients,” says Grace, whose forte is colored stones and bringing the latest in trend-setting jewelry as well as sourcing luxury handbags.

“Grace has her degree in jewelry design and estate jewelry, so she can assist clients with their vision and find that perfect piece of jewelry for any occasion,” says Scott.

Their eldest son, Scott II, is also proving to be a great asset to the team. “He’s a people person and all about the customer experience,” says Grace . “His passion for Rolex helps when educating a client on the purchase of a certified pre-owned Rolex or luxury timepiece.” Scott II is a registered nurse and continuing his education to follow in his parents' footsteps in obtaining his graduate gemologist degree.

STORY BY LIESEL SCHMIDT // PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEN MEADOWS

When Jennifer and Kenny Adams met, Jennifer was the owner of her own business, Boston Street Food & Spirits, while Kenny was working for his parents at Integrity Builders. Now partners in life as well as in business, the couple co-owns AMG Contractors, utilizing Kenny’s expertise in residential and commercial construction and Jennifer’s skilled navigation of the customer service aspect of owning a business as well as her administrative savvy and eye for interior design. “We specialize in residential new construction and stay on top of new trends while incorporating traditional touches so that homes and remodels never go out of style,” says Jennifer.

Named for their daughters Alexis, Mia and Gabby, the business is a labor of love for the Adamses— and their shared work is a connection that strengthens them. “Kenny formed the company, and as it grew, it made sense for us to combine our talents for the different aspects of the business,” Jennifer explains. “We love the process of creation and building something from the ground up and being able to physically see and share the reward of having our clients love their new home. Our children being able to watch us working as a team and see the time and effort it takes to make it happen has also been incredibly important to us.”

As residents of the Northshore, the Adamses love playing an active role in growing their community. “Doing business with local vendors and subcontractors and adding these new homes that bring new families to the area is so special for us,” says Jennifer. “We love the Northshore and are thankful to be here.”

JENNIFER &KENNY

POWER Couple

“Our children being able to watch us working as a team and see the time and effort it takes to make it happen has also been incredibly important to us.”

CEDARWOOD: SANTA CLAWS IS COMING TO TOWN

STORY BY LIESEL SCHMIDT // PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY MCHANEY

s two people who ran in the same professional circles for decades, Mike and Cathy Saucier knew of each other for years before they ever really met. After multiple occasions of crossing paths, the two began dating long distance, became best friends, and later married in October 2021 at their home in Covington.

Now working together at Gulf States Real Estate, the Sauciers have proven the power of teamwork. “Coming together later in life, we are fortunate to both have had many life experiences and successes,”says Cathy. “When you think of a dynamic couple, what might come to mind are the many professional achievements that they have had, but more important than that, I believe our many life passions and incredible friendships are what really define us as a couple and give us true joy in life. And while Mike and I are both in the real estate space, our expertise is in different segments of that industry. My professional career has evolved over time from owning a commercial real estate brokerage and property

management company to now investing and redeveloping mostly commercial properties. Mike’s development career of envisioning and creating new projects spans decades, and it is so exciting to see his visions take shape!”

Adds Mike, “I would say we are both determined individuals that ascribe to excellence in our work and satisfaction for our clients, while still having fun and enjoying our many common hobbies. We’re generally very social people, which one must be to successfully sell yourself and your product. Our industry is ever-changing and sensitive to many factors—some controllable but most not. Like interest rates. But it is highly rewarding to be the catalyst of Ground Breaking and Grand Opening ceremonies, while we Turn ideas into Reality”

CATHY &MIKE

GABI + NIC

Both born and raised in Mandeville, Gabi Cerise and Nic Yeager met at Fontainebleau Junior High School in 2010. The friendship that they formed there was one that naturally—almost unwittingly—turned into love over time. “Nic and I were always in the same friend group, and all of our friends would joke and tell us that we were literally like the same person,” Gabi explains of how their relationship began. “People would say, ‘Gabi is the girl version of Nic, and Nic is the guy version of Gabi.’ We’ve been best friends for as long as I can remember, but it wasn’t until senior year at LSU that we actually started dating.”

Story by Liesel Schmidt

Photos by The Crawfords Photography and Film

“If you could marry your best friend, the rest of your life will be an adventure.”

After Nic formally asked her to be his girlfriend, the two became inseparable and deepened their relationship even further. After graduation in 2019, they moved to Corpus Christi, Texas, and began their adult lives and careers, sure that they wanted to forge into the future together. Two years later, Nic asked Gabi another question that would change their relationship forever when he asked her to marry him during a family trip to Miramar Beach, Florida, in June of 2021.

“Gabi and I took a walk on the beach at sunset, and there were two weddings going on that we had to walk around,” says Nic, describing how the carefully planned and meticulously orchestrated day played out. “At that point, we were facing towards the hotels where both sets of our parents were all hiding until I got down on one knee. Once we passed all of the weddings, I was finally able to ask Gabi to marry me. With all of the emotions going on inside of my head, I literally forgot to put the ring on her finger!”

Fortunately, Nic remembered to put the ring on her finger sixteen months later on October 15, 2022, as she stood before him wearing a satin strapless fit-and-flare wedding gown. Having shared a first look and reading their personal vows together in an intimate pre-ceremony moment, the couple exchanged vows publicly satin fitto-at the outdoor altar of Milicevic Farm & Vineyard Venue in Abita Springs, Louisiana. “It was such an intimate moment, and we were so happy that we took time to be with just one another before the ceremony,” Gabi says. “It helped calm our nerves, and we got beautiful pictures, too.”

After being pronounced married, the newlyweds joined their guests for a reception with delicious food served on-site—but not before they shared another special moment alone. “We did a champagne tower pour at sunset and shared our first dinner together as Mr. and Mrs. Yeager privately in the bridal suite before the start of the reception while the guests enjoyed a cocktail half hour,” Gabi says.

After a celebration that included a late-night snack of beignets catered by Café Du Monde, plenty of dancing and high spirits because the LSU Tigers beat the Florida Gators, the happy couple was sent off to start their honeymoon in St. Lucia. “We hiked waterfalls, ziplined through the jungle, enjoyed a couples massage, went on a sunset cruise, toured Hotel Chocolat, and went on a jeep safari tour,” Gabi says. “It was a beautiful and relaxing week.” Now back home in Baton Rouge, the Yeagers are looking forward to the next phase of their relationship: as best friends, lovers, and husband and wife.

PHOTOGRAPHER/ VIDEOGRAPHER: The Crawfords Photography and Film

VENUE: Milicevic Farm & Vineyard Venue

FLORALS: Crystal Vase Flowers & Gifts

RINGS: Anne Dale Jewelers

DJ & PHOTOBOOTH: Rock-It Productions

LIGHTING & SPARKS: Rock-It Productions

CAKES: Maple Street Bakery

LATE SNACK: Cafe Du Monde

HAIR & MAKEUP: Glam on Location, LLC

BRIDE H&M: @glambynicolechantelle

CEREMONY HARPIST: Wesley Daniels

INVITATION

CALLIGRAPHY: @ew_designs

DRESS & VEIL: Olivier Couture Bridal Boutique

BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids

ALTERATIONS: Sew Custom, LLC

TRANSPORTATION: RedLine Limousine/Angel Classics/ My Royal Coach

“The first time I met David, I felt as if I had known him forever. He is very personable and you can tell he genuinely loves his career, which makes it even more enjoyable working with him. David, Jen, and the entire team at Social make marketing in all forms easy and fun!”

– SHELLEY HODDINOTT RICHARDSON Senior Financial Advisor Merrill Lynch

COVID VACCINES

We

STORY BY LIESEL SCHMIDT // PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEN MEADOWS

Growing up with a physician for a father, Lizette Alvarado had her path towards a career in some kind of medical field laid out early. “My dad was my idol,” Lizette says. While her dad, Dr. Luis Alvarado, may have a more traditional career in internal medicine, Lizette shares his desire to improve the lives of others.

Through her work as the owner of Syn Skin Aesthetics and Wellness, Lizette offers medical weight loss programs, holistic weight loss, medical and aesthetic Botox, fillers, microneedling, PRP, vampire facials, PCP, BHRT, sexual health therapies, VI peels, skincare, and Skinmedica. “Aesthetic medicine and wellness is a holistic approach to medicine that allows a patient to focus on their inner and outer wellness,” she explains. “We specialize in beauty and wellness, and we love making people smile, making them beautiful, and helping them achieve their health goals.”

As father and daughter both share the desire to help people, they became business partners in March of 2022. The pair bring their respective accomplishments and various associations to the table: Dr. Alvarado was LSMS president, served as AMA president delegate and currently sits on the Louisiana compensation board. Lizette is a board member of ACCESS and is active in End ALZ, Mi Esperanza, NAMI and You Night.

As a team, they also share some very important character strengths of caring, humility and going the extra mile in patient care. Their work has seen great support from the community, and that support has meant success in their business. “The Northshore is like a family, and we appreciate how supportive and kind the community has been,” says Lizette.

“We specialize in beauty and wellness, and we love making people smile, making them beautiful, and helping them achieve their health goals.”

& DR. ALVARADO

DYNAMIC Duo LIZETTE, FNP-C

INGREDIENTS:

1 pound French bread, cut into cubes

8 large eggs

1 cup granulated sugar

1 tbsp vanilla extract

1 tbsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp salt

3 cups milk (whole)

2 cups heavy cream

Icing:

2 cups confectioners’ sugar

2 tbsp lemon juice

1/4 cup condensed milk

KING CAKE BREAD PUDDING

I love King cake season. It might not love me, but woo, that stuff is good y’all. I find them pretty difficult to make, so I wanted to make something easy not only for myself but for you guys to enjoy too! This is so close to a king cake but is crazy easy to make!

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 350

In a large bowl, mix all ingredients, except the bread

Cube up the bread into 2 inch chunks

Place the bread into the egg mixture and let it sit for 10 minutes, pressing down any pieces that are on top so they all soak up the mixture

Spray a 11x13 baking pan

Pour into the pan

Bake for 60 minutes

In a bowl mix the confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice and condensed milk

You may need to adjust the measurements to get the consistency/taste you want for the icing

When the bread pudding is finished cooking, allow it to cool completely

Pour the icing and spread all over the top

Decorate it to your liking!

Enjoy :)

Recipe courtesy of Bayou Belle

“Victoria has created a large network over social media and the local community for the past decade that has shown immense support.”

STORY BY LIESEL SCHMIDT // PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEN MEADOWS

Believe it or not, there’s a psychology to scent. It can attract us or repel us, evoke emotional responses and elicit memories. Knowing that power, Victoria Masters and Devin McKinley launched 11th Haus, an e-commerce brand offering a pheromone line as well as crystal-based wellness products. “We would consider ourselves modern alchemists who create products around connection. Early on in dating, I shared that I wanted to create a pheromone line because I saw success using them in dating after my divorce and knew they would be helpful in my sales job—but I didn't want them to be filled with artificial fragrances,” says Victoria, who met Devin on Bumble. “Devin supported me, but knew he wanted to be a part of it after helping me develop and test pheromones while working with manufacturers. Luckily, my weak points in business are his strengths. As fate would have it, a temporary government layoff is really what catapulted us to finally launch.”

What makes this couple such a great business team is the way they complement one another. “Devin is a master at the administrative tasks that keep our back end thriving,” says Victoria. Meanwhile, Devin notes that, “Victoria has created a large network over social media and the local community for the past decade that has shown immense support.”

The couple is deeply connected to the Northshore community that has been such a support to helping grow their business. “We are so excited about STARTUP NORTHSHORE!” says Victoria. “Our program director, Cenzo Caronna, and the IDEAINSTITUTE were and still are both integral parts of our growth and scaling. We are also so excited about Helping Hearts Foundation and hope to collaborate to give back through our business soon.”

“Devin is a master at the administrative tasks that keep our back end thriving.”

VICTORIA &DEVIN

POWER Couple

Holiday Luncheon

PWST hosted it’s annual holiday luncheon at the beautiful Beau Chene Country Club. Celebrating the season with donations for Toys for Tots, a holiday lunch, libations, and fun! They also had a guest speaker, Zed Williamson.

Photos by Melissa Calico

Caroline Theriot, Ashley Bagley, and Wensel Conroy Jess Steelman, Angela Owen, and Braelyn Leggett

Sarah DiLeo and Ashley Broyard

Cara Herrin and Erin Strain

Cynthia Widlitze and Marie Rudd-Gregory

Mandy Gonzales, Lauren Carbo, and Skylar Lindsey

Mary Cheramie and Julia FitzPatrick

Adam Bartlett and Lisa Farrell

Aimee Dodds, Michelle Schellinger, and Jennifer Taranto

Shelby Forsyth and Bailey Martin

Angela Owen, Robin Leckbee Perkins, Charlene Mediamolle, and Julia FitzPatrick

Michelle Krebs, Cara Herrin, Tara Monjure, and Pemmie Sheasby

Elizabeth Garland, Diana Matherne, and Shelley Pettus

Jennifer Taranto, Shelley Pettus, Patsy Yates, and Lynnette Boudet

SUPER MOM Danielle Papania

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

In her work as the Director of Sales and Marketing at The Southern Hotel, being extremely organized is the order of the day for Danielle Papania. Working on the event side where the hotel hosts a wide range of events ranging from social events like weddings, birthdays and showers to corporate meetings, holiday or retirement parties, Papania is tasked with booking groups, negotiating contracts and working with the host to determine floor plans, menus and logistics before passing it to the operations team to oversee the execution on event day.

At home, she manages a family with her husband of eight years—and the two have faced some incredible challenges together. “When we married, I owned a wedding planning business specializing in luxury destination weddings in New Orleans,” she notes. “When my oldest son, Brock, was a newborn, we found out he had three holes in his heart. That started us on a two-year heart journey which included countless doctors’ appointments, living in a bubble, and the fear of a possible heart surgery lingering. I ultimately decided to give up the wedding planning business and shift to a company, which would allow me to still do what I loved but without the pressure of being a one-person company. I needed the flexibility to be available to Brock at a moment's notice, should he need it. When the opportunity opened at the Southern, I felt it was a perfect fit and that I could bring a lot to the position.”

Naturally, she faces the same trials that all working mothers do. “It can be challenging and overwhelming at times, but each time I step back and see how far we have come as a family and what my kids are learning by having working parents, I'm proud,” Papania says. “I hope that growing up in a house with a working mom instills the value of hard work in my boys. Teaching them to set goals and go after them, even if you must restart by shifting careers when life throws curve balls. I hope they also learn that it takes a village to ‘do it all,’ and that's okay—ask for help, surround yourself with people who celebrate your wins and help you through the losses.”

Papania has had to learn that for herself and give herself grace for not being able to carry everything alone. “I cannot do it all, all the time,” she says. “I have had to work through the struggles of ‘balance’ and

desperately wanting to freeze time and be there for every moment of the boys' adolescence but also wanting just as badly to do bigger things at work. Sometimes those two things collide, and finding the balance of both can be tricky.”

“I am certainly not a perfect mom, but we strive for grace over perfection,” she continues. “I hope that my boys always remember that they are loved fiercely and that they are enough, just as they are. I also hope they remember to have fun and enjoy life. Being in the creative party space means that we are never without a good theme for a birthday or costume party, so we have fun with it—which I hope I teaches them to enjoy life and truly embrace any opportunity to throw a good party, even if it's a random dance party on a Tuesday night!”

“I hope that my boys always remember that they are loved fiercely and that they are enough, just as they are. ”

Dance parties on a Tuesday night, baking, and doing puzzles together— Papania and her husband do truly embrace the opportunities to have fun as a family. “I've also dressed them up as a version of their name for Halloween each year,” she says. “It's unintentionally become a favorite thing we do—Brock has been Broccoli and Brocky Balboa; Teddy has been a teddy bear, Ted Lasso, Theodore from The Chipmunks. They will likely really hate me for that when they’re older, but it makes for a good laugh.”

In watching her two boys grow, Papania has learned something incredibly important: Resilience. “Watching Brock through his heart journey was truly a remarkable thing to witness,” she says. “Watching your child struggle is a very hard thing. But watching them overcome those struggles and truly thrive...it's something special. I look back to the times when we were in the thick of that journey, and I wonder how we ever made it out in one piece. Without us knowing, it was making us all stronger and more resilient, day by day.”

Diamond Rose Massage

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TEACHER MRS. KELLY MASSA

feature

SECOND GRADE WOODLAKE ELEMENTARY TEACHER

Who, specifically, in your life influenced your decision to become a teacher?

Growing up, my little brother had ADHD and Dysgraphia which caused him to struggle a lot in school. I spent a lot of my time helping him get by, working with him one on one in the library, and making sure he wasn’t just passed along in the system. I vowed then that I would help all different kinds of children, and I have stayed true to that commitment for the past 8 years.

What do you feel is the biggest reward?

The biggest reward in teaching is making connections with your students. Sometimes it’s the ah-ha moments in class. Other times it’s the extra hugs a student gives you, or a sweet note telling you that your kindness matters and that they are thankful for a teacher like you. Teachers certainly aren’t in the profession for the money, and I would say for me, it is because I genuinely love helping children learn and grow.

If you could leave your students with one message, what would it be?

If I could leave my students with one message, it would be to never give up. I struggled with math all through school, and now it is one of my favorite things to teach. As a teacher, I always say progress, not perfection. I hope my students believe in themselves enough to have the confidence to take on anything they set their minds to.

The Professional Women of St. Tammany held it’s monthly luncheon at the beautiful Beau Chene Country Club. This included speed networking for these ladies to make new connections for the organization, lunch, and some raffle items. It was a great way to meet new people and learn about their business.

Sara Sinclair, Paris Candies, Michelle Carlson, and Jenna Richard Jennifer Taranto and Shelley Pettus

Valerie Mascorro and Lesley Burke Samantha Capdeboscq, Candice Sledge, Rachel Rebouche, and Bailey Martin- PWST President

Erin Strain and Aimee Dodds

Nadine McCoy and Megan Helwick

Ashley Broyard and Sarah DiLeo

Cynthia Davidson and Michelle Krebs

Rachel Porche and Braelyn Leggett

Abbie Schaffer and Laurie Serpas

Photos by Melissa Calico

Alex Lentz, Nancy Stuben, and Shelby Forsyth

Melissa R Henry, Mary Byrd, and Linda Larkin

Barbara Rabion, Tiffany King, and Megan Helwick

Charlene Mediamolle, Angela Owen, and Corey Keller

“Social takes your business’s exposure to the next level, and I love their personal touch on creativity and media content.”

– DR. LAUREN AGNEW Eyewares Optometrist

All Heart

By Liesel Schmidt

Heart disease is a diagnosis that’s devastating at any age, but even more so when that diagnosis is being given to a baby or a child. These years are a time that should be filled with hope and joy, with laughter and innocence, with learning and exploring and discovering, as the whole world is new and big and limitless with possibility. It’s a time when the future is boundless and an entire lifetime has yet to be lived, and the biggest worry is monsters under the bed. But this condition has a huge impact on everything, turning the monsters under the bed real and robbing these tiny ones of what their childhood should be.

For the families of children with congenital heart defects (CHD), sometimes hope seems so far out of reach, due to lack of access to specialized medical care, either financially or logistically. In 2000, Dr. Chip Oswalt and Ray Wilkerson took the burden upon themselves to do something to address that need and founded HeartGift in Austin, Texas. “Dr. Oswalt met two children who needed heart surgery while he was on a trip to Kosovo,” explains Executive Director of HeartGift Louisiana Stephanie Berault. “He found a way to get them to the U.S. for surgery, but he knew after that experience that he could do much more to help other children so desperately in need. For the first several years, all surgeries were performed at Dell Children's Hospital in Austin. What Chip and Ray soon realized, however, was that the only way to help more children was to expand to other cities.”

To widen their reach, HeartGift started a chapter in San Antonio in 2008, and both Houston and Louisiana were established in 2010. In Louisiana, HeartGift partners with Children's Hospital New Orleans to provide the surgeries at no cost to the child's family. Patients are screened by a medical selection committee at the hospital to determine which children can be helped with one surgery. In addition to providing medical care, HeartGift coordinates travel and recruits local volunteers to provide housing, transportation, translation, meals and companionship during the four to five week period required for the child and one parent or caregiver to stay in the U.S.

“Every year, over one million children in the world are born with a congenital heart disease—the most common of all birth defects— and sadly, 93 percent of them will lack access to adequate medical care,” says Berault. “HeartGift was founded to address this inequity,

“Every year, over one million children in the world are born with a congenital heart disease— the most common of all birth defects—and sadly, 93 percent of them will lack access to adequate medical care.”

as we provide life-saving heart surgery to children living in parts of the world without access to specialized medical care. Since it was founded in 2000, HeartGift has served over 600 children from 34 countries in Africa, Asia, Central and South America. The 76th child to receive surgery in Louisiana is recovering and preparing to return home to the Philippines by the end of the year.”

Despite the incredibly important work that it does, HeartGift does not receive any government funding. All funds are received from grants, events, individual and corporate donations, and that generosity is relied upon to continue their work. “The money we receive from our donors allows local supporters to make a global impact,” says Berault.

Furthering that global impact has necessitated expanding international partnerships, and during the global shut-down of COVID-19, HeartGift used the time to facilitate expansion of their international partnerships and find ways to treat more children closer to where they live. “This year, we were able to help 200 children throughout the world,” says Berault. “Next year, we plan to double that number, and 400 children will receive care through HeartGift in the US, Asia, Africa, Central and South America.”

The Northshore Home Builders Golf Tournament at Beau Chene Country Club was a great success. Many people came out to play the 4-person golf scramble for a good cause. Participants enjoyed some food, drinks, contests and prizes, along with a chance to donate to the Toy Drive.

Elesia Savannah, Emily Tickner, and Jenny Dufrene

Chris VanPelt and Beth Jenkins

Chandler LeGrange and Wyatt Shepherd

Louis Fitzmorris and Matt Faust

Michael Ferrer and Scott Hebert

Joey Donaldson and Jason Reibert

Casey Munson and Billy Coile

Amanda Cusimano and Charlie Cusimano

Angie Daughdrill, Sean Brown, and Brandi Heath

Cory Felger and Jonathan Moore

Photos by Melissa Calico

Kitt Kaufman and Angelica Castilleja

Chuck Crabtree, Mary Slazer, and Jim Carlson

Gregg Jr, Gregg, and Cory Felger

Eric Pohlmann, Caroline Martin, and Brandi Heath

Cathy Williams and Julie Matte

Camille Ybarzabal and Angie Daughdrill

Babette Bonura and Patrick McCourtney

Amanda Cusimano and Leigh Harrison

Kristi Doran and Lindsey Richard

Charlie Cusimano, Andrew DeLuca, and Casey Munson

Charlie Rowbatham, Steve Rowbatham, Joe Jean Marie, and Eddie Beau

The

premier full-service retirement community

Christwood offers a choice of cottages and apartment homes for independent living, with all maintenance services and membership in our Community Fitness Center included. Residents choose from delicious dining options, a host of amenities, and an array of activities, entertainment, special interest clubs, and more.

Cam Cole, Todd Cole, and Lindsay VanAs

Bailey Blossman and Cindy Cusimano

Rhonda Guthrie, Megan Magee, and Judy Crain

Joey Donaldson and Matt Faust

Clay Heath and Donny Abshire

100 Christwood Blvd., Covington (Entrance on Brewster Rd.)

–Elsie deWolfe

Photos:

Much like the American actress turned interior designer and author Elsie de Wolfe, Melanie Martin has built her life on making things beautiful. She loves to live among beautiful things herself, and that sensibility has made her a well-known interior designer throughout the Gulf South over the past three decades. A career that has seen her mark left on some very prestigious projects. But none is more personal, of course, than her own home on Ono Island.

Story: Liesel Schmidt

Summer Davis Photography

With an architectural style that she describes as “edgy,” the four bedroom, five bath home is a juxtaposition of modern and traditional, with elements that marry the two polar opposites with ease as well as a deft understanding of how to make them work in concert, rather than seeming to clash. The two-story home is a study of light and angles, with a multitude of windows inset into the cream stucco façade, which, barring Martin’s own description of the architecture, might otherwise be classified as transitional. It follows her ethos of bringing in elements of both old and new, which can be seen in high relief throughout the interior of spaces—which, naturally, bear her finger prints in every single element.

Built by Loper Construction with architecture by McCollough Architecture, the construction was completed in 2020. The home is set right on Old River and offers a spectacular view of the Gulf of Mexico and Perdido Key across the water—something which the banks of windows at the back of the home capitalize on. Lush and almost tropical in feel, the surrounding landscape offers the perfect canvas for the home itself as well as the glittering pool that seems almost dropped into a carpet of grass—which is actually artificial turf. “I wanted to avoid the typical concrete or stone surrounding the pool, which gets extremely hot in the sun,” explains Martin, who, along with architect Stead McCollough and builder Chad Loper, is part of what has become known as the Dream Team because of the many high-end projects on which they have collaborated. “Artificial turf is much easier to walk on, and there is none of the maintenance required of a natural lawn.”

Inside, a neutral palette of creams and whites offer a blank canvas that allows color to stand out and give space for details to shine. Overhead, massive wooden beams run along the ceiling and break up the otherwise unremarkable expanse of white. Facing out toward a wall of telescoping glass doors that open out onto the patio, the kitchen that “doesn’t look like a kitchen,” is set unobtrusively into the open concept living spaces. Created to look more like part of the furniture, the dark custom cabinetry seamlessly hides a refrigerator and the other appliances common to a kitchen, only hinting at its purpose through a range top and, inset into a sprawling quartz island, a sink with brushed gold fixtures that echo the gold tones of the duo of abstract pendant lamps that seem to hover overhead. A bank of white cabinetry matches that of the center island, giving the space that juxtaposition of light and dark that Martin so loves to explore.

There are touches—a massive tortoise shell, an antique door made into a table and set on a Lucite base that gives it the look of floating in the air, chandeliers sourced from her travels—that all have a personal story for Martin. They lend to the layering of the spaces, giving it a depth and dimension that cannot be found in anything picked off a showroom floor. “When I design a space, I use pieces that are collected, mixing styles and textures and finishes so that it’s completely unique and unlike anything you would find in a typical furniture store,” says Martin. Part of that also comes from the art, which Martin features with great pride throughout her home, pieces painted and created by her late son, Mikall.

The bedrooms are equally attended to, of course, with a room for her three granddaughters that holds three queen-sized beds and special photos that have been enlarged and printed on canvas above them. “The girls absolutely love their room,” says Martin, whose affection is obvious in her voice.

The master suite is fit for the queen of the house and takes absolute advantage of the home’s location. A completely open space, the bedroom flows into the ensuite, which opens out onto a second-story deck, courtesy of a wall of telescoping glass doors that match those on the floor below. “It’s almost like bathing outside,” Martin explains of the absolute openness of the space. Luxurious detailing and finishes give this a sanctuary feel, an escape from the everyday that make it all the more appealing. Closets flanking the space provide capacious storage, and a morning bar offers the perfect way to wake up and face the day.

With its dream-worthy locale and a design that is every bit as livable as it is worthy of a glossy magazine spread, Martin’s Ono Island home is just that: home. It’s beauty filled with beauty— Martin’s happy place.

HOLIDAY TEA

Merry Mande

The Mande Milkshakers gathered for their annual Merry Mande Holiday Tea at the Mandeville Trailhead. The three course tea featured pictures with Santa, performances by the Mande Milkshakers, a Holiday Market with handmade gifts by local artists, and yummy treats for the whole family to enjoy.

Photos by Kha Tran

Erin Vicari and Tara Brouillette

Melissa Serpas, Nancy Gervais, and Jackie Netherton

Donna Doyle and Emma Dejean

Olga Bushch and Hayedn Bushch

Leah Senette and Kevin Marino

Carley Chase, Stephanie Maggie, Gracie Maggio, and Pamela Lopez

Tana DeJean and Cecilia Vinterella

Amber DeJean and Jessica Vinterella

Kirk Hunley and Aimee Myers

Elizabeth Harville and Hannah Harville

Jordan Motahari, Riley Bridges, and Judy Bridges

Richard W Rice, Steven Stein, Jim Berube, and Clay Kruse

Andy Mclain and Beth Mclain

Connie White and Becky Kruse

Saylor Martino, Brooke Bonura & Baylor Parsons

Amanda Marino and Isabella Marino

OKTOBERFEST

The Dirndl dresses and Lederhosen were on full display as St. Paul’s school hosted its annual Oktoberfest. Stein’s were hoisted in the air as “oom-pah’s” rang out and the Chicken dance was led by the band for the night. Ax throwing and silent auctions were only complimented by the authentic Bavarian foods.

Photos by Casey Varnado

Jeff and Rochelle Redmond

Melissa Buckel and Michelle Livaccari

Tara and John Palmer

Jim Rather and Keith Krebs

Emily and Bryan Achee’

Elizabeth Cureington and Elysia Lenahan

Leslie and Dave Hadsky

Eugenia Gangi, Kim Dupre’, and Tiffany Lueg

Jim Benson, Yvette Benson, Sharon Latino, and Dominick Latino

KATIE ROSE NORMAN

 @PAPERROSEDESIGNS PRINTS AVAILABLE AT PAPERROSEDESIGNS.COM

I grew up in Abita Springs, LA, a small town famous for its healing waters. The natural springs and gently winding river inspired my own artistic flow and instilled a deep love of nature and community. I learned to paint with oils and acrylics on canvas, spending weeks in critical deliberation over every brush stroke. Learning to work with watercolors was a true awakening for me. I spent many years coloring inside the lines, sticking to the plan and palette, but now I embrace the unknown, trust my instincts and take more chances.

I continue to find inspiration working with oils and acrylics on canvas, wood and walls but watercolor invites a lighter, more whimsical stroke. The spontaneity of flowing water dismantles my inherent desire to control every detail, and encourages me to forget expectations and delight in the magic that flows between bristles, pigment and water. It's a love story unfolding on the paper: rich color dancing with divine elements. I've learned that with patience and an open heart, the masterpiece will reveal itself. It always does.

Since launching Paper Rose Designs in 2011, I have painted hundreds of watercolor portraits of brides, puppies, families, homes, hotels, logos and landscapes. Bringing people together is what matters most to me and art is how I do it.

Fun Fact: KatieworkedfortheAmericanHeartAssociation foryearsinNOLAandChicago.

Water on the Winter

SANTA STREET & BOAT PARADE

Winter on the Water was a celebration of winter and Christmas on the Mandeville lakefront. The parade started at Pontchartrain Yacht Club and rolled to the Gazebo with a program on the lakefront. Attendees lined up Lakeshore Drive to welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus! At the gazebo, festivities included the Lighting of the Oaks by Mayor Madden, live music, face painting, the Mandeville Elementary School Bell Ensemble, pictures with Santa, and the Pontchartrain Yacht Club’s Lighted Boat Parade.

Photos by Jacob Morgan

Gabe Nath, Eleanor Quinn, Caroline Quinn, and Candace Quinn Cecilia, Steven, and Gabby Ogden

Lou and Manny D’Elia

Christine Buras and Al Dodd

Joelle Chandler, Angela Chandler, Lana Baird, and Ryan Baird Tammy Lynn, Leann Cuttrer, Stephanie Rodgers, and Risa Chatelain

Lyla Solomon and Alyssa Howell

Ronshele Armour and Zaheerah Clark

Gabriel, Alex, and Roxanne Blappert

Our 400+ pediatric specialists are here for your little one.

Since 1955, Children’s Hospital New Orleans has provided extraordinary care for children and families across Louisiana, including on the Northshore. With our all new, expanded pediatrics, specialty care and outpatient therapy location in Covington, choosing specialized care for your little one close to home has never been easier! To schedule an appointment today call 504.896.2888.

Schedule today on the Northshore. chnola.org/northshore

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SMH Breaks Ground on Hospital Expansion

Patients in Slidell and surrounding areas will soon benefit from new facilities and services coming to Slidell Memorial Hospital. The hospital broke ground on its Surgical Services and Patient Care Tower, a 3-story building addition, during an afternoon ceremony celebrated by hospital staff, community members and dignitaries. The tower is scheduled to be complete in 2024.

The groundbreaking ceremony was held in the gravel lot on Florida Avenue and 11th Street behind the main hospital campus. Speakers included SMH senior leaders, Board of Commissioners Chairman Joseph DiGiovanni Jr. and Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser.

The $50 million project will expand the main campus of the hospital with the construction of a new building that will house a brand-new set of operating suites, an additional Intensive Care Unit and an additional inpatient care unit with private rooms that can be switched to negative pressure to aid in the treatment of airborne viruses. The project also includes demolition of

existing structures and renovating the current operating rooms, built in the 1970s, to create a surgical experience that is completely private for patients, without the need to be wheeled along public corridors to and from surgery.

Chief Executive Officer Sandy Badinger noted the past two years of the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the world’s dependence on healthcare, stating, “We promised last year when we proposed a new building that would offer advanced surgical options, new ICU beds and more negative pressure rooms, that we would do our part to always care for our community – no matter what crisis comes our way. As your community hospital, we cannot say thank you enough for supporting us in our efforts to keep care local.”

“This is truly the largest construction project for Slidell Memorial in the hospital’s history, which makes this groundbreaking especially exciting,” said SMH Chief Operating Officer Holly Sanchez, who is leading the project. “The three stories of the Surgical Services and Patient Care Tower will expand the hospital’s footprint by approximately 61,000 square-feet. Because of [the community’s] support, this project is able to come to fruition.”

SMH Board Chairman DiGiovanni explained the funding through the tax millage partially funds the construction of these facilities, allowing Slidell Memorial to expand services available to patients, bring new technology and programs, perform innovative surgeries and deliver care in new ways. This new facility will also provide a better working environment for team members, allow the hospital to recruit top talent, and ultimately, keep care local, he said.

“I can sincerely say that Slidell Memorial and our partner Ochsner hold our responsibility to our community at the forefront of every decision we make,” said DiGiovanni. “Our mission is to improve the quality of life in our community, and that includes planning for the future of healthcare in Slidell.”

Slidell Memorial Groundbreaking: Slidell Memorial Hospital and Ochsner leaders and staff, alongside community members and project contractors, take part in a groundbreaking ceremony for its Surgical Services and Patient Care Tower on Nov. 14, 2022.

Exterior Rendering: Exterior Rendering by Sizeler Thompson Brown Architects of Slidell Memorial Hospital’s 3-story building addition.

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