Social Northshore | November 2022

SOCIAL

NORTHSHORE

Kids join the fight

and Children’s Hospital New Orleans reimagine the child healthcare experience with first of its kind ‘Walker’s Imaginarium’, a 12,000 sq. ft center that will bring play, learning and fun to children receiving care in the hospital, in loving memory of Walker Beery.

With a shared vision to build a healthier future for children, the two organizations are teaming up to raise funds for the $10M project which will be located on the main campus of Children’s Hospital New Orleans.

Imagine a place where kids can discover, learn, play and just be kids - in a hospital. Children’s Hospital New Orleans and Kids Join the Fight did. The two organizations have announced plans to build a visionary, 12,000 square foot enrichment center located on the hospital’s main campus.

The center is named ‘Walker’s Imaginarium’ in memory of Walker Beery, the brave boy who launched Kids Join The Fight before he passed away following a courageous fight against pediatric brain cancer last September.

Thanks to Walker’s vision to make a difference for other children like him and the generosity of friends and supporters, this inspired project will provide a therapeutic space for patients and families to thrive, find joy, and enjoy time together while in the hospital.

encouragement, including siblings, families, friends, visiting groups and the community.

As Louisiana’s premier children’s hospital, Children’s Hospital New Orleans has delivered expert healthcare

where they are.

“Being in a hospital setting can be scary for any child,” said John R. Nickens IV, President and Chief Executive Officer at Children’s Hospital New Orleans. “We believe that children learn and heal through play, and we must meet them where they are. This project does just that – delivering a playful and energizing environment that will create more positive healthcare experiences. That’s what our partnership with Kids Join The Fight is all about.”

does just that – delivering a playful and energizing environment that will create more positive healthcare experiences.”

This

In addition to offering an innovative environment for kids receiving care in the hospital, Walker’s Imaginarium also provides opportunities to invite the community in, creating a unique opportunity where sick and well children can safely interact, engage, and support one another through empathy and

for children across Louisiana and the Gulf South for more than 65 years. With a recently completed $300 million transformation of its main campus in New Orleans, Children’s Hospital provides the highest level of pediatric care in the state, backed by more than 600 pediatric-trained providers, and partnerships with LSU Health New Orleans and Tulane University School of Medicine. Children’s Hospital also operates ambulatory clinics across Louisiana and the Gulf South including 12 primary care clinics and nine specialty clinics from Lake Charles to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.

Learn more about Walker’s Imaginarium and giving opportunities at www.chnola.org/imagine

“We believe that children learn and heal through play, and we must meet them

project

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

When cooler weather draws near, that can only mean one thing... it’s the holiday season! The beauty of the holidays is that they have the ability to bring people together. So, collectively, let us enjoy giftgiving, family time, and thankfulness for everything around us.

In this issue, we are sharing the Pros to Know in the home service industry. Read along, as we share what makes these businesses industry leaders and how they strive to set themselves apart as innovators. Join us in celebrating local veterans in the SuperDad and Impact and Give Back articles featuring, Brian Jones and the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

This season, we are thankful for our readership and the local businesses supporting Social Northshore. Your support allows us to do what we love: showcase business leaders, highlight local charities, and share events in our community. See you in December!

JEN MEADOWS Editor,

– DR. LAUREN AGNEW Eyewares Optometrist

Social Northshore

On the Cover: Christine Sheffield, Diana Hunter, Elizabeth Mills, Molly Fenton, and Sydney O’Connor

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

PUBLISHER

David Renfro

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Jen Meadows

COPY EDITOR

Lana Cagle SALES

Jen Meadows | 985.687.8980

David Renfro | 731.499.1414 Melissa Calico | 504.339.7326

PHOTOGRAPHY

Casey Varnado Katie Ulmer Leslie Bear Melissa Calico Aaryn Crews Donielle Barnes Kha Tran Sherri Howard Mia Jolie Photography Eugenia Lubrano of NOLA Real Estate Marketing Wedding by Laura Caraway Photography

STAFF WRITER

Liesel Schmidt CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kayla Bertucci Casey Varnado GRAPHIC DESIGN

Kim Mesman & Chris Shenk SOCIAL

VOLUME 3 · ISSUE 3 Stay

Why Restore Health and Wellness

• We are a telemedicine only weight loss/ wellness clinic.

• We offer medically managed weight loss , peptide therapy, and Lipo injections to improve your overall health and subjective well-being.

• We look forward to helping you reach, not only weight loss goals, but a healthier you.

• We will medically manage you through your weight loss journey and help you make long term changes to help you keep the weight off.

FATHER DAUGHTER Tailgate

Elizabeth’s spirit is stronger than cancer.

Elizabeth was blindsided when at only 35 years old, she discovered a lump and found out it was breast cancer. She began treatment immediately, before moving to Madisonville. That’s when she opted to transfer to St. Tammany Cancer Center –

A Campus of Ochsner Medical Center, which not only lowered her mileage to and from treatments, but also her stress levels. Upon completion of her chemotherapy treatments, Elizabeth underwent physical therapy through Ochsner’s integrative oncology services, to regain strength and range of motion in her upper body. We’re helping Elizabeth get stronger every day, so that she can experience the joys of life and motherhood.

Whatever your reasons are for doing the things you do, we’ve only got one. YOU.

ochsner.org/longliveyounorthshore

Elizabeth T.

THE Gala presented by HUB International was held at Tchefuncta Country Club. The cancer center celebrated one year of cancer care on the Northshore with this year’s fundraising event supporting the patientcentric programs and initiatives of St. Tammany Cancer Center, a Campus of Ochsner Medical Center.

Christian Maloney, Paula Day, and Bailey Maloney Rosenberg

Christine Sheffield, Diana Hunter, Elizabeth Mills, Molly Fenton, and Sydney O’Connor

Khaliah and Fabian Franklin

Stephen and Joan Coffman

Angela Avant and Katelyn Bouey

Lauren Agnew, Jonee Daigle Ferrand, and Sarah Daigle

Katelyn Dowdle and Annette Dowdle

Sami Mosrie and Valerie Vickers

Catherine Cooper and Parish President Mike Cooper

Michelle Davis and Emmett Dupas

Photos by Sherri Howard & Tiffany Chabert

PRESENTED BY

Melissa Vucinovich, Laura Bonura, Katie Santangelo, Bri Wale, and Jessica Hornsby Rudolph Cambre and Teresa Clark Krutzfeldt

Darci Senner, Jim Walthe, Beth Walthe, and Rene Pellisier

Vincent Cangiamilla, Nat Parks, Becky Parks, and Meaghan Crain

Arlyn and Scott Arseneaux

Kim and Hugh Hamilton

Lindsay Gomez, Michael Dardant & Rene’e Christman Meagan and John Dubreuil

Jared Papania, Danielle Papania, Erin Strain, and John Strain

Emily Revere, Melanie Rudolph, Nicole Suhre, and Doug Walker

Rich and Katie Fielding, Kathy Fielding Smith, Allison Panter, Kathy and Benji Fielding

20+ YEARS of experience collaborating with employers on their benefits programs

In the past few years, employee benefits have changed drastically to accommodate a more digital world. Our goal is not only to create and drive a long-term strategy that allows businesses to offer competitive benefits and control costs, but to join their vision and be an extension of their team.

As one of the largest brokers in the United States, HUB International’s resources and consulting options include voluntary benefits; data analytics; health; performance; program design; implementation; and much more.

RHU, CCWC, CHRS Senior Vice President

Annette Dowdle

Coming in the December Issue

Hottest Ticket in Town

Charity Gala

Presented by MERCEDES-BENZ OF COVINGTON 2022 HOST COMMITTEE

Emily Compagno

Justin Melnick & Dita

Reagan Charleston Jack Carr

Lance Moore

Jennifer Hale

Kyle Morgan

Will Chesney & Cairo Max Martini

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

BEYOND AND ABOVE

Two World Wars, the Cold War, Korea, Vietnam, and what seems like an endless war in the Middle East. In the last century, we as a nation have endured our share of conflict. Through all that time, countless men and women have braved the unthinkable to come home battle scarred—and many others never came home. To honor those who came back bearing the physical reminders of war as well as those who returned under the shroud of the flag, the Purple Heart was instituted in 1932, 150 years after George Washington awarded the first “Merit Badges” to reward service above and beyond the call of duty. Originally given exclusively to the combat wounded of the US Army, the attack on Pearl Harbor forever changed the qualifications for receiving a Purple Heart because of the staggering number of "Killed in Action" men and women during WWII. The medal was also authorized to be given to any member of any branch—not just the Army—who met the guidelines of being KIA or injured in combat.

Consequently, the number of Purple Heart recipients has not been small over the past 90 years. There have been too many wars, too many conflicts. To meet the needs of those Purple Heart recipients, the Military Order of the Purple Heart was chartered by Congress in 1932. Comprised exclusively of combat wounded veterans and service members who received a Purple Heart, with the Ladies' Auxiliary of the Military Order of the Purple Heart composed of female counterparts of the Purple Heart recipient who would rally and raise money and awareness for activities and support. The Ladies' Auxiliary was founded with the mission of promoting Americanism, supporting social welfare and volunteering in VA hospitals, communities, events and anywhere there was a need.

Thirty-odd years later, the Ladies' Auxiliary - Northshore Unit 741 began meeting unofficially, with its legal incorporation beginning in the 1990s. Then, in 2017, the Ladies' Auxiliary of the Military Order of the Purple Heart was renamed to the Military Order of the Purple Heart Auxiliary in order to encourage males to join, since the number of female Purple Heart recipients demanded that the bylaws change.

“Although our name changed, the mission of volunteerism is still at the heart of our organization,” says Colleen Orfanello, Unit 741 president. “Each of our active members have a special skill or talent that they bring to the group. Some are legal or medical professionals that donate their time by hosting speaking engagements, some are crafters that share their talents such as quilting, soap making or even photography skills, some members are chefs and share their ‘famous’ Louisiana-based recipes with our national members.”

As numerous as Purple Heart recipients may be, MOPHA’s greatest challenge is keeping the organization thriving and keeping membership numbers stable. “Because membership is so exclusive, it’s hard to recruit,” explains Orfanello, who retired seven years ago from her job to focus on serving the Purple Heart on a national level—first, as national historian, then as a regional president, then in national leadership. “Because Purple Heart recipients are awarded the medal due to medical injuries, we cannot request ‘lists’ of recent recipients due to HIPAA laws, so it’s up to the recipient to seek us out. And when they do, it's like a weight off the shoulders of the recipient and their family members. Our members are diverse in every sense of the word, but we are family, nonetheless. It’s hard for someone to share intimate details about issues to anyone who has not walked in his or her shoes, and it’s especially hard for someone to share the trauma of war with someone who hasn't experienced it. We still have a few WWII era members who are active. In fact, one of our WWII members is 107 years old. But the majority of our members are from Vietnam and the Gulf War. What we are seeing is a resurgence in membership numbers of the children of the Vietnam veterans and spouses and recipients of the Gulf War. We are certainly smaller than the American Legion or VFWs out there who have a million members. All MOPH members or patriots must have received a Purple Heart, and the Auxiliary must be lineal descendants within two degrees. Basically, membership is offered to the recipient themselves, their grandparents, parents, spouses, siblings, children, and grandchildren.

“We also have associate members that are non-blood relations or nieces, nephews, or in-laws,” Orfanello goes on. “In the St. Tammany area, we have less than 200 members, but our active membership has decreased since the beginning of the pandemic. Our monthly meetings that focus on a specific topic and activity decreased to only two meetings a year, but we still host monthly Zoom calls. Because one of our main goals was volunteerism and outlets for that very important aspect of our work were closed or off-limits to non-essential personnel, we learned to make crafts, write buddy-letters, and make compassionate-care calls instead. This was important work as well, but it didn't compare to the happiness that physical volunteerism does for the soul. Still, we’ve learned wonderful information such as how to cope with compassion fatigue, ways to help Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) survivors live a better life, how to spot cries for help, and ways to recognize simple acts of gratitude.”

As a non-profit, Unit 741 receives a small grant each year averaging $2,500 from their National Service Foundation. Those funds are used for a veteran service project such as purchasing cookies and beverages for events such as Wreaths Across America at the South East Veterans Cemetery in Slidell, meals for home-bound veterans, or “Holiday Heart Happys”—little trinkets during the holidays for veterans without families. “This year, Unit 741 partnered with Max Home and granted a WWII veteran from Covington a walk-in shower and elevated vanity,” says Orfanello. “Max Home is a huge supporter of America's combat wounded heroes, and we are proud to partner with them. Last year, we were able to help dozens of hurricane-stricken veterans from the many storms that plagued Louisiana.”

Over the past year, unit fundraising has become even more focused, as the need to offer support in a new way has emerged. “We want to give our members and their families the tools they need to reduce stress and anxiety and strengthen peer-to peer support for mental health issues like PTSD,” says Orfanello. “The result is our campaign, ‘Healing the HeART’ with an emphasis on the letters A-R-T. The 2023 National Convention will be hosted in Louisiana, with nearly 400 Purple Heart family members participating in the ‘Healing the HeART Summit.’ We need to provide tools that attendees can leave with in order to make their lives, and the lives of fellow veterans better. It's going to be an informative and necessary meeting that will help the combat wounded to focus on a holistic, artistic way of coping with the trauma of war and for family members to reconnect with their loved one and understand their experience and recognize signs of distress. These tools aren't just for the new members; it's for all war-era members from WWII to members that received their medal recently. Attendees can also take these tools and share them with fellow Purple Heart families and members back in their respective groups. Some interactive sessions such as journal writing, art and music therapy, mediation, yoga and verbal communication skills are being planned. The more money we raise, the more we can offer. Our fundraising goal is $90,000, and we plan to use every penny we raise over the next few months exclusively for the Healing the HeART summit.”

As the need for their work continues, MOPHA will continue to be there, with a heart for those who have given theirs in service.

BOGALUSA BLUES & HERITAGE COMMITTEE WOULD LIKE TO SAY

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

Varnado

All eyes and ears were centered in on the Bogalusa Blues and Heritage Festival. This annual event draws in crowds from all over Louisiana. The festival highlights local and national musicians and the music is outstanding. The attendees braved the sun and the heat, and they were rewarded with great food, fun, and some of the best blues music in the country.

Rowan, Josh, and Megan Herndon

Photos by Casey

Katie Rose Norman and Parker McConnell

Baby doll London and Baby doll Kit

Tiago Civile and Renee Gros

Brook Hanemann and John Webb

Tristan Stacia and Emerson Brandenburg

Clinton and Darnell Stacker

Brooke Tims and Donna Guidry

Portia and John Lipani

Nikki Guidry and Carroll Chauvin

TEACHER CHRISSY GATES

FIRST GRADE CEDARWOOD TEACHER

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

Although my mom was never a teacher in a classroom, she has been the most influential teacher in my life and wholeheartedly supported my decision to become a teacher. Her father, my grandfather, was a principal and all three of my mom’s sisters were teachers so I believe teaching came naturally to her as well. She’s taught my sister and me life’s most valuable lessons and I’ve loved watching her natural talents impact my sons’ lives.

What is your biggest challenge as a teacher?

I think one of the most challenging parts of teaching is making sure you reach students at their individual levels so that everyone remains fully engaged and reaches their full potential. While it’s challenging it is also one of the most fun parts of teaching!

What do you feel is the biggest reward?

While there are many rewarding moments, I think watching a student’s growth from the beginning to the end of the school year is most rewarding.

How do you make learning fun for your students?

I try to make learning fun by tapping into students’ interests and incorporating hands on learning experiences as frequently as possible. I’ve loved having these opportunities at Cedarwood!

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

Be confident! You got this.

In celebration of Money Hill County Club’s golf course renovation, we are offering a limited Membership Initiative to our members and their friends.

Invite a friend to be a part of our club during this exciting time in our history.

As a current member, you can sponsor a prospective member and both of you will receive $75 off the current dues rate for 24 months

Your new member will also receive 75% off the INITIATION FEE to join - they pay only $1,750! (Original cost is $7,000)

DOVE Classic

GOLF TOURNAMENT

Joshua Dutruch, Lyndi Smith, Rhonda Meral Lane and Steven Johnson, Dan Voelkel, Craige Smith

David Burk and Ryan Hurst

Wayne Morris and Jordan Lambert

Doyle Gerald, Becker Andrew, Shane Showalter, Gerard Doyle Jocelyn Baker, Bonnie Kate Kitchen, Mike Gassen and Elizabeth Gibson

Rebecca Rich and Japonica Cruise

Larry Perrin and Thomas Daniel

Chris and Bob Pool, Jason Aucoin

Photos by Kha Tran

St. Scholastica Academy held its 25th annual Dove Classic Golf Tournament at the newly renovated Money Hill Golf Course. At this tournament, a golf cart was auctioned off as a fundraiser for the SSA Athletic Booster Club.

Jake Palmer, Bob Neal and Jason Aucaon

Jocelyn Baker, Jeannette Landers, Bonnie Kate Kitchen

Chris Kobrock, Ronald Pierson, Larry Oggs, and Cort St. Paul

Yvette Cardinale, Brenda Ehrhardt, Marcy Donham and Katie Rose Norman

Celest Wilson and Taylor Capouch

Hudson Harris and Joe Miller

Emily Ceravolo, Erin LeCorgne and Suzy Ortiz

Billy Stroud, George Thibodeaux, Tom Amedee, and Lennie Crawford

Kirk Michel, Steve Berger, Travis Jore, and Daniel Netterville

Photos by Leslie Bear

The Trailhead went German! A traditional style, family friendly Oktoberfest, hosted by and helping the Bile Duct Cancer fund and A Rhea of Hope Fund, was in full swing with live German music, raffles, games, activities, as well as an interactive children’s section. There were plenty of German foods, drinks a plenty (both Beerfest style and family friendly), and food trucks to go around as festival goers enjoyed the event dressed in a mix of Trachts, Dirndls, and Lederhosen, as well as modern festival clothes.

Jose, Anabel and Joselyn Polanco

Erin Whitely and Peggy Murphy

Kailyn Oneil and Mary Chatelain

Colin and Colleen Reilly

Stewart Eastman and Melba Lormand

Fallon Laundry and Mel Beaut

Julia Spielhofer, Lea Schmiedeskamp, and Annika Veider

SPONSORED BY A RHEA OF HOPE

Leslie Arcana, Mary Gardner, John Arcana, Lane Arcana, Janae Arcana, and Kevin Gardner

Gary Lacoste, Melissa Lacoste, Elsa Jerez, and Ellen Sweetman

WHO’S GOT TALENT Gala

Kelly Kicking Cancer held its 8th annual gala event at Benedict’s in Mandeville. Kelly Kicking Cancer is committed to honoring the life and spirit of Kelly O’Mahoney by funding research to eradicate brain cancer. Attendees enjoyed dinner, libations and live entertainment from our Who’s Got Talent contestants, and a live auction.

Photos by Kha Tran

Morris Neel and Jane Neel

Susie O’Mahoney, Danielle Phillips

Lee Rhodes, Michelle là honey, Wendy Guichard, Racheal Aiken, Kelly Hess, Cher Nungesser, Judy Rhodes, Hilda Montecino, Holly and Jason Wolf

Gary Ellish, Laura Copeland, Page McClendon, Laurie McCants, Wayne McCants, Lillie Accardo, Patti Ellish

Elsa Herrera, Katie Brupbacher, Jannie Markey, Gina Pausina Cherry, Kelly Lauro Tami, Barber Sue Ellen Stewart, Julie Taglauer, Janet McGovern

Dominick Latino, Sharon Latino, Jim Benson, Yvette Benson, Lauren Benson, Micah Roper

Sandy Barnes, David Barnes

Leslie Spoon

“We are all limited with advertising dollars, especially with inventory challenges these past two years so I truly appreciate the enthusiasm and integrity of the Social magazine team. Dave works with my hectic schedule and does so much of the work for me. Marketing is not my background so I appreciate their professionalism, input, and expertise. I am happy to work with Social and they make it so easy.”

– Laurie McCants Mercedes-Benz of Covington

Catherine Cooper, Susie O’Mahoney, Parish President Mike Cooper

Joni Scoot, Usner Scoot

Judy Bridges, Jamie Simon, Carol Nunez, Diana Hernandez

Karen Bradshaw, Evan Phillips, Keely LeCompte, Madison Tripp, Eva Cuccia, Annabelle Bertucci

Lyndi Smith Brian Smith

THISMODERN SPACE

With its geometric design and clean lines, the white stucco home owned by Miguel and Yvonne Edwards follows the aesthetic of so many European homes, giving it a unique appeal against the contrasting designs of the other homes in its Mandeville neighborhood. Designed by Matthew Voelkel, the house offers dramatic curb appeal created by its deceptively simple exterior, comprised of geometric shapes accentuated by a complex arrangement of substructures linked by architectural corridors.

Story:LieselSchmidt//Photos:Eugenia Lubrano-GangiofNOLAREMarketing

At 4000 square feet, the two-story home is a spacious one, boasting four bedrooms and four baths, with an incredibly open floor plan made even more airy by dramatically high ceilings and multitudinous windows. The modern aesthetic is continued throughout with a mix of fashionforward colors and materials, though despite its visual appeal and stylishness, there is nothing about the home that isn’t functional to living or too precious to be lived in—which, with a household that includes three boys, is crucial. “With a bustling home of five, our interior design had to be both elegant and functional,” notes Yvonne, who is a stay-at-home mom and an R.N., while Miguel is the Chief Information Officer for (PALIG) Pan-American Life Insurance Group.

Unifying the entire home engineered hardwood floors run throughout, accented by bold, oversized blue slate tiling in the entryways. Just to the left of the front entry, a space originally intended as the formal dining was transformed into an intimate music recital space for the Edwardses’ three young musicians, featuring a baby grand piano and lush seating. To the right is a formal living area, the two rooms divided by a hall with exposed beams overhead and gold geometric chandeliers, adding warmth to an otherwise stark space. In an alcove between the formal dining room and the open plan kitchen, a bar expands the length of the wall, with custom storage cabinetry and a wine cooler. Just steps away, the U-shaped kitchen centers around a massive island whose dark gray cabinetry stands out in stark contrast against the white cabinets of the perimeter.

“The kitchen is definitely a focal point of the home,” says Yvonne. “Given the openness of the floorplan, from nearly any work surface within the kitchen, you can seamlessly participate with family members in the eating area or living room.” The stainless-steel range is complimented by a beautiful white tile backsplash with ornate gold inlay, an echo of other gold design elements throughout the home that provides a stark contrast against the largely white colorways of the home. The oversized center island provides ample prep space as well as a gathering point for the family and their guests.

New Showroom NOW OPEN in Mandeville

The space flows seamlessly into a dining area and then a living area whose focal point is a fireplace flanked by two floor-to-ceiling windows. “With the open layout of our principal living area, whether cooking, eating, or enjoying TV, the entire family can be together,” Yvonne notes.

Whatever the room, there is a cohesive thread within the design elements, marrying the architectural details to décor and materials— including the paint selections as well as the art chosen for the walls. “The artwork throughout our home is very personal to us,” says Yvonne. “Our collection features works from renowned artists from Panama. In staying consistent with the modern exterior, the interior leverages a bright white base, with bold accents throughout.”

“With the open layout of our principal living area, whether cooking, eating, or enjoying TV, the entire family can be together.”

Crucial to the home’s appeal and feel is, of course, the many windows that flood it with natural light. With so many windows, the Edwardses naturally needed window treatments. “The team at Southern Windows Accents were instrumental in the selection of our window treatments, which added critical bold accents to the overall décor,” Yvonne says.

On the main floor separated from the main living area by a corridor with grand windows, the master suite provides a hotel-inspired escape from the everyday bustle of life. Boasting ceilings that soar overhead, the large master bedroom connects to an equally impressive master bath through his-and-her closets. The master bath features a zero-entry, floor-to-ceiling glass shower enclosure surrounded by oversized polished Italian marble tile, and a freestanding slipper tub offers the perfect place to soak away the stresses of the day.

Outside, a resort-inspired pool and hot tub built by Joe Crowton provides year-round enjoyment, set amidst a tropically landscaped backyard. The automated screened enclosure installed by Southern Window Accents allows the family to stay outside even during the late nights of summer when mosquito season is in full swing. Backed up against a nature preserve, the property is a calm escape for the Edwards family, the perfect place to call home.

THERE'S NO ROOF LEAK WE CAN'T FIX

Our expert has the skills needed to fix leaks caused by...

• Insufficient ventilation

• Poor maintenance

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You may not think about your gutters very often, but they're an important part of your property. Top-notch gutters can...

• Increase the value of your home

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REFRESH YOUR HOME WITH NEW PAINT

Turn to Causeway Roofing & General Contractors for interior painting services in Lafayette, LA or the surrounding area. You can rely on our expert to paint your...

• Cabinets

• Ceiling

• Garage

• Trim

• Basement walls

• Bathroom walls

Need to restore the exterior of your commercial building? We also offer commercial exterior painting services. Discuss your color options with our expert today.

Causeway Roofing & General Contractors, LLC is a sister company of Lafayette Roofing & General Contractors, LLC with the same two owners Darren Domingue and Billy Savely Jr. Causeway Roofing is a locally owned and family operated company. Darren Domingue grew up in Mandeville and has family still living on the Northshore & Southshore. It has always been their dream to open a brick-andmortar roofing company that can service these areas. “We are not fly by night roofers!” With the recent hurricanes and storm damage over the last few years, we have seen an increase of storm chasers that come in and do a bad job then disappear, leaving homeowners to pick up the pieces. Causeway Roofing knows the importance of having someone you can trust, and if there is a problem they can be found.

Causeway Roofing and Lafayette Roofing have done over 10,000 residential & commercial roof replacements since 2014. They have also been voted #1 in Acadiana for Roofing & Home Improvement every year since conception. Owner, Darren Domingue, is an Executive Board Director for the Better Business Bureau and both companies have an A+ rating with the BBB as well. Owners, Darren & Billy, have been chosen by Marquis Who’s Who 2020 Top Business Owners in Industry in the Nation and have been awarded 2020 Top Businesses in Industry in the Nation. If you need a roof replacement or roof repair, call 985-373-9171. At Causeway Roofing “We are proud to protect, what you protect!

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

THE HOMEMAKER

Statistically speaking, most people spend their days in jobs that don’t truly fulfill them. That was never more evident than in the height of the pandemic, when we all had time to stop and reassess our priorities and what we were really doing with our lives. Millions of people made drastic changes—to their careers, to their home life, to their location—all to find what they feel they’ve been missing. To find fulfilment and purpose. But as the Development Director of Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West, Leighanne Weeks hasn’t had to go in search of fulfillment. She already has it.

“I grew up in Mandeville, so I have a deep love for the Northshore,” says Weeks, who joined the organization in 2014 as the Marketing and Development Coordinator. “I have always wanted to work for a non-profit and to work for the benefit of others, not just have a job that benefits my life and my needs. I wanted to be a part of the community and build a career that was in service to the people around me who make this area so wonderful. I’d done volunteer work with Habitat in college, and that’s where I was first introduced to Habitat for Humanity.”

Naturally, her current role demands a great deal more than her work as a volunteer did. “My position as development director entails donor relations,

community outreach, marketing, fundraising and events,” explains Weeks, who took the position more than four years ago. “The best part of my position is that I can be a part of this community. I try and give back to organizations and clubs that give to us, like Leadership St. Tammany, Rotary, Junior League of Greater Covington and Northshore Homebuilder Association. In the midst of that, I also get to meet so many new people.”

People. They’re the heartbeat of everything that Habitat does, and, in fact, the part of her work that Weeks loves the most. “These are individuals who strive every day to make our parish a wonderful place to live and to raise a family,” she says of the people she meets in the course of her work. “It’s also incredible to see the absolute joy on the faces of the children we impact. There is nothing like attending a home dedication ceremony or wall raising where a child shows you where their room will be and how they want to decorate it. You can see the excitement of how this home will change their life. We have so many stories about how moving into Habitat homes has had such a positive influence on the children’s grades, health and confidence. They are our future. To see them happy and thriving in their new home is the best.”

Challenges are a natural consequence to any endeavor, and Weeks certainly faces them in her work. “One of our greatest issues is the wide misconception that we give away homes for free,” Weeks notes, explaining the steps and the amount of “sweat equity” that their families must put in to become homeowners.

The passion she has for her work is evident—and that passion is a strong driving force in affecting change and making a real difference. Still, she claims none of the credit for what she has accomplished in her work over the past four years as solely her doing. “None of my achievements has been solely of my own accord,” she says. “Our Habitat family has all worked passionately to provide homes for those who are in need and have built almost 300 homes. Whether it’s from the leadership of our board, the expertise of our construction crew and ReStore staff, our ReStore volunteers or from those on our construction sites literally building the homes, each one of us have played such a vital role in the successes. The homeowner’s themselves deserve so much credit for their efforts and dedication in working towards their goal of homeownership. I’m just so grateful to be a part of their journey and story. The reward for me is being there to celebrate the homeowners when they get to turn the key to their new home.”

Looking to the future, Weeks hopes to continue working with Habitat. “I want to set an example for my children that it is important to give back to your community and serve those around you,” she says. A Mandeville native who returned home after a few years in Nashville, Weeks is a wife and the mother of two young children she’s happy to be raising in the community she loves. “I have amazing parents that are also very active in volunteering their time and energy in our community,” she notes. “It’s the greatest thing knowing we have three generations living in this wonderful town.”

Since 1945, Bevolo has been manufacturing traditional, antique and custom designed, open flame and electric lanterns. Bevolo is known world-wide for high quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. No other company can compare to the handcrafted, hand riveted fixture we create every day. Bevolo uses the highest-grade material, the most efficient patented burners, the finest industry-standard techniques and highly skilled craftsmen. Bevolo provides customers with high quality lanterns that will last for generations to come.

Today, Bevolo’s designs have expanded to over 500 lantern and bracket combinations of both open-flame and electric lanterns. Visit the Bevolo lighting museum in the heart of French Quarter on Exchange Alley and see live craftsmen making lights.

SIMPLY PUT...

Bevolo holds true to the belief that old world craftsmanship is what truly makes our fixtures last a lifetime. In fact, lanterns that were built over 75 years ago, are still burning in the French Quarter! Bevolo Lights are manufactured in New Orleans and Covington, Louisiana, supporting local economies for generations.

WHY BEVOLO?

• Design – The Lighting Design team at Bevolo will guide you into selecting the appropriate style and size lantern to complement your architecture.

• Quality – Bevolo Lanterns have proven to last a lifetime, these are the last fixtures you will ever buy.

• Beauty – Our copper is oxidized using a time tested method to make the lights look like they have been on your home for years, and they will continue to age gracefully with your home.

• Continuity – We never discontinue a style of light.

• Craftsmanship – Bevolo’s local craftsman use aviation technology by riveting each one of our lanterns together giving them the strength an flexibility to hold up to all elements.

• Sustainable – Using only the purest American mined and milled copper, Bevolo lanterns will last centuries.

• Efficiency – Our Patented gas jet and flame is the most efficient in the world.

• Local – We are proud to be not only American-made, but Louisiana made! Our workshops are in Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Tammany parishes.

BRIAN JONES SUPERDAD

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

As a financial advisor at Jones Bazile Wealth Advisors with Northwestern Mutual, Brian Jones’s job is to help individuals, families, and businesses understand who they are, what their dreams are for the future and guide them in developing a strategic financial plan to make those dreams a reality. “Our goal with clients is to reduce anxiety around finances, investing and retirement for the everyday American,” he says.

When he clocks out at the end of the day, Jones goes home to his wife of ten years and their three kids, ages five, three and one. As rewarding as his paying job may be, it’s the one that comes without a paycheck that really holds his heart. “Being a dad is, hands down, the most rewarding thing I've ever done—and by far the most challenging,” says 33-year-old Jones. “Watching my kids grow and learn and interact with the world around them gives me tremendous pride. The challenging part is navigating their emotions and making sure I don’t overreact to situations but instead offer the kind of guidance and correction that will teach them how to handle various life situations appropriately. I’ve found that the best way to offer proper guidance to my kids is to share information directly from the Bible instead of relying on my own wisdom or experiences.”

Despite having a time intensive job, Jones enjoys tremendous flexibility in his work—giving him the ability to be an extremely present father. “I am very fortunate to be where I need—or want—to be for my family,” he observes. Being as financially savvy as he is, his kids will benefit from the wisdom he can impart. “Money management is not something taught to most people,” Jones notes. “I feel very confident that my children will have an exposure to money, investing and business that will help them sift through all the information available to them in the world to make smarter decisions and live a life by design, not by default.”

A military vet, Jones has seen many different sides of life—and the world—and all of that has greatly impacted his approach to fatherhood and his work. “I have always been very proud of my military service,” he says. “Through the military, I learned many valuable lessons on leadership, overcoming adversity and personal responsibility. I feel these lessons learned are in direct correlation to running a successful business, giving me confidence in approaching various situations and different client interactions. I know that no matter what situation I may face, it will be handled with integrity and a well-developed plan on how to attack the mission at hand. Over the years, I’ve learned not to focus on the results but to focus instead on the work you're putting in. With many things in life, we are not in control of the outcome. What we are in control of is

our own effort; if we’ve done what we can to the best of our ability. Many times, the desired result takes a long time to come to fruition, which causes people to become very discouraged and maybe even give up on what they're trying to accomplish. When we focus on the input and working diligently, the outcome often takes care of itself. Knowing all of this has been incredibly important to being a father. The effort I put into my children and my relationship with them, in raising them right, will show in the end.”

As he watches his children grow into the people they will become, Jones’s greatest hope is simple. “If I get to the end of this life and the only things my children say about me is that their daddy taught them who Jesus is and lived his life accordingly, that will truly be the greatest accomplishment I could seek in this world,” he says.

Young as they still may be, Jones’s three little ones have taught him a few very unforgettable—and very important—lessons. “They’ve taught me greater patience and the fact that I don't have all the answers,” he says. “Contrary to what I used to believe, we can never have all the answers, and that's okay. We're not meant to know everything as humans. Luckily, we have a resource in the Bible that gives us guidance on how to navigate any situation or circumstance in life and how to view those in the proper light.”

Zito's AC & Heating uses industry-leading practices to maintain an optimal temperature within your home at all times. From installation to repairs, our experienced technicians are just one call away.

At Zito's AC & Heating, we provide an extensive range of services to ensure you and your family stays comfortable throughout the year. Our team of seasoned technicians have the technical expertise and experience to keep you and your family cool on the hottest summer days, and warm during the coldest of days.

FAMILY OWNED

SERVICE AREAS

In 1976, Ronnie Allen founded Aquarius Pools in Mandeville. Over the last 46 years, Aquarius has led the Northshore in quality pool design and construction. Family owned and operated; Ronnie was proud to work side by side with his son Michael over the past 10 years. From an early age, it was instilled in Michael to always be directly involved with every project and to give the customer the best quality pool that can be constructed.

Michael has led Aquarius into the future by implementing in-office 3D presentations for every project which gives the customer a hands-on experience in designing your backyard paradise. Recently named Northshore’s Best Pool Designer, his vision and continuing education in design gives the customer a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else. Along with design education, Michael also implements yearly the newest and most innovative products in the pool industry.

GOLF TOURNAMENT

The Al Copeland Foundation hosted their Annual Golf Tournament at Beau Chene Country Club. The weather was perfect as Al Copeland, Jr greeted all the golfers on their way to tee off. The annual event supports the foundation’s efforts through local partnerships to assist cancer patients with treatment and the ultimate goal of bringing an end to cancer!

Joe Mese, Liz Copeland, Al Copeland, Jr, Kathleen Thomas, and Nick Thomas

Photos by Katie Ulmer

Jim Schoen, Lisa Taglauer, and John Borner

Tammy O’Shea, Brian Cook, Jim Schoen, and Jerry Schoen

Don McMaster and Marty Donovan

Tommy Buckel and Jason Richoux

Glenn Jackson and Jerry Alexander

Bill Goudey and Nara Jones

McLean Bergeron and Chris Ostendorf

McLean Bergeron, Denis Bergeron, and Joe Mese

Melissa McKenzie and Bentley Boldt

WOMEN BUILD WALL RAISING

What an incredible day celebrating new homes and new beginnings! Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build is celebrating their 20th anniversary, and wall raising for Rodneisha Chatman and her children. The Women Build is an annual project that makes home ownership a reality.

Photos by Melissa Calico

Leighanne Weeks, Rodneisha Chatman, Terri Gage, Raniyah & Ra’sean Jennifer Gitz, Pemmie Sheasby, and Rebecca Ferran

Candice Ardoin and Sarah Ertz

Candice Landers Davis and Noble-Bates Young

Lainie Theobold and Kayla Willie

Jennifer Messina and Caitlin Hunter

Shevelle McCrary, Renada Brown, and Kevin Zamjahn

Patti McKenzie, Tori Simmons, Maine Williams, and Shawanda Wilson

Daina Short, Caitlin Hunter, Alia Casborne, and Kacey Zillner

The idea for Garden Spot of Mandeville began decades ago when Judy King started growing ferns in greenhouses on her property, in Bush, Louisiana. Ferns take a while to grow to a size in which they are sellable and so Tommy, King’s husband, started growing vegetables to sell since they are faster and smaller. It was at this time he realized the potential of growing annuals and perennials and selling them to friends.

Word began to spread and people from all over started coming to the greenhouses in search of beautiful plants. They eventually had the idea to open The Garden Spot of Franklinton, an outdoor store created to sell locally grown, quality plants. The store became very popular, enticing people from all over and so the King’s decided to open a store in Mandeville to reach a larger audience.

Thus Garden Spot of Mandeville was born and today both locations are run by Tommy and Judy’s daughter, Sandy, and her husband Tony. Just as they started, annuals and perennials are still grown at the local greenhouses and both locations continue to serve their communities well with high quality, locally grown plant materials and expert customer service.

Garden Spot of Mandeville is a family-owned retail garden center, offering customers a wide selection of high-quality products. Our annuals and perennials are grown at our nursery located in Bush, Louisiana, and our shrubs and trees are sourced from local nurseries so you can rest assured that your plants are coming directly from the grower to you.

“Erika’s attention to detail and drive is sure to keep her ahead of the field. Hearing Erika explain in detail the job in question, is very rewarding knowing she gives 100% of herself to making sure the clients are satisfied and better yet understands the process in detail. We’re going to use Erika to build our dream home in Carter very soon.” –Customer

Barktober Fest

2022

Stone Creek Club & Spa held their First Annual Barktober Fest with donations going to help St. Tammany Parish Dept. of Animal Services, a no kill shelter! Families came out with their pets to enjoy the fall festivities, food, drinks, and the outdoor walking trail.

Marvin Gresse, Lindsey Rich, Hope Riccobono, Ally Goings, Delainey Graham, Amy Booth, Fez, and Dobby

Photos by Katie Ulmer

MeMe Leonard, Samantha Leonard, River

Madeline Moore and Paige Kollatt

Stefanie Serpas, Sadie

Mila and Ellie Boudreaux, Kona

DJ Appe and Sam Yelnick , Winston

Clay And Kim Prather, Jax, Buttercup

Tori Wilson, Leslie Morgan, Brady, Romeo

Tawni, Brandon, Kaeden and Jaelen Murray

Erica Banegas and Nash

my name is Savannah Sunshine Brown and I am a full-time content creator, influencer, and social media manager! On my Instagram, @followingsunshine you’ll find creative photoshoots, street style looks, affordable fashion, social media tips, and social media coaching! On my TikTok, followingsushine you’ll find unboxing videos, try-on videos, and lots of Amazon finds! Be sure to follow along with me on both platforms for a fun, colorful, and fashionable time!

 @ABIGAILRELLERART 

ABIGAIL RELLER ART

ABIGAILRELLERART.COM

ABIGAIL Q. RELLER

Founder & Owner | Abigail Reller Art Founder & Owner | The Grey Collaborative

Abigail (Quitzau) Reller is a New Orleans native who, with her husband Aaron, have two children—Anna Frances and Benjamin. My daughter and I started painting at home while my son was napping. I was amazed at how perceptive she was to the notion of painting. Gradually, I realized that the process of creating art with her was just as beautiful as the finished product. I wanted to find a way to merge my two passions together, art and children. From this idea came “The Grey Collaborative.”

Photos by: Casey McMurray

Powerfully Pink Retreat

Photos by Melissa Calico

The Professional Women of St. Tammany held their 2022 Powerfully Pink Retreat. It was a beautiful day of networking, empowerment, and relaxation. Women enjoyed lunch while listening to some dynamic & empowering speakers.

Melissa Ruddick, Pemmie Sheasby, and Kelly Balser

Rachel Porche, Rani Kliebert, and Michelle Krebs

Mandy Gonzales and Sarah DiLeo

Shelby Clement and Audrey Gitz DeAgano

Brandi McAndrew, Lauren Carbo, Cayla Ohler, and Stella Harman

Blaire Stroemple and Kat Parker

Cynthia Davidson and Melissa Montero

Paige Henderson, Niki Strahan, and Tina Meilleur

Rio Rodgers, Cynthia Widlitze, Angela Owen, Patsy Yates, Lynnette Boudet, and Mary Byrd

Caroline Theriot, Amy Moisant, Wensel Conroy, and Ashley Bagley

Lee Ann Cosgrove, Cynthia S. Thompson- Strong, and Carley Nelson

Shannon Capouch and Stephanie Best

Emily Purvis and Megan Helwick

Jenna Richard, Nancy Pratt Stuben, Shelby Forsyth, and Bailey Martin

MADELYN + AUSTIN

SAVE THE LAST DANCE

Some people still meet the old-fashioned way, without the help of apps or websites. That was the case for Madelyn Light and Austin Brannon, who were introduced during their senior year at Louisiana Tech by a mutual friend in 2017—no swipe rights or lefts, no match algorithms telling them they were a good fit or weren’t. The next three years of dating only deepened the compatibility they already knew they had, and on October 24 of 2020, their match became a forever thing.

Story by Liesel Schmidt // Photos by Laura Caraway

We’d gone to my family farm in Shreveport that day, and Austin had tricked me into thinking there was a party out that way,” says Madelyn, who works as a marketing manager at Northshore Dermatology, while Austin is an Occupational Hand Therapist at AVALA. “We drove to the farm, but what was really going on was that he was proposing! My brother and sister-in-law were hiding behind a barn taking photos of the whole thing. I said yes, of course. Afterwards, we went back to my parents’ house, where a huge engagement party with our closest family and friends was waiting for us!”

A year and a half later, on June 25, 2022, their closest family and friends waited again as Madelyn walked down the aisle at Trinity Heights Baptist Church, the same church where her parents were married 33 years before. Wearing an ivory satin sleeveless v-neck gown with spaghetti straps and a mermaid silhouette, she met Austin at the altar. “It was timeless and simple—exactly the look I was going for,” says Madelyn, who found her dream dress at Town and Country Bridal in New Orleans.

After exchanging vows and being pronounced married, the newlyweds joined their guests for a reception at the Scottish Rite Temple in Shreveport—and their entrance was nothing short of epic. “The entire wedding party entered the reception with a trumpet player and the band playing a New Orleans second line song,” Madelyn says. “Then we all passed out custom medallion beads with a picture of Austin, me, and our cat, Peanut to all of our guests at the reception.”

With 300 guests, it was, indeed, a party. Dining on an array of food including heavy hors d’oeuvres from Savoie’s Catering as well as a buffet style dinner of favorites such as chicken alfredo, mozzarella sticks, chicken quesadillas, pulled pork sliders and kabobs, the couple and their nearest and dearest were well fueled to celebrate. When it came time for the cake cutting, the newly married Brannons sliced into a five-tier strawberry and vanilla bridal cake adorned with white florals and topped with their duogram. In honor of Austin’s love for the Saints, the chocolate flavored groom’s cake was shaped like the Superdome.

Before setting off on their honeymoon, the couple took a few moments to do something very special. As their guests gathered outside in preparation to send them off, Madelyn and Austin had a private last dance in the space, just the two of them dancing alone as husband and wife. “It was our favorite part of the entire day,” says Madelyn.

Finally ready to make their escape, the Brannons honeymooned in Riviera Maya at the Excellence Resort. Now back home on the North Shore, they’ve settled into life as a married couple… with plenty of dances alone, just the two of them.

The 34th Annual Monster Mash was held at the Bogue Falaya Park in Covington. This well-loved and highly anticipated event continues to expand and had more families than in years past enjoy the festivities. This family-friendly Halloween experience is complete with trick-or-treating, music, cookie decorating, crafts, carnival rides and so much more.

Marie, Maelys, and Celestine Hebert

Kandyl Crawford and Cohen

Gina Welch and Charleigh Welch

Chip Gaillot and Parker

Divina and Arianne Dixon

Ebony, Brandon, II, Brandon, and Addison Demerson

Adam and Melissa Darby

Rikki Mares and Mason

Alex, Anna, and Andrew Wolfson

Ivanna and Anton Martynenko

Photos by Katie Ulmer

Brett, Valerie, Elisabeth, and Emilyn Willman

Sybil Casso, Cheryl Corizzo, Preston, and Owen

Margaret, Jay Crockett, 2Jay, Layla, Kalix, and Dalton Warren

Laura, Mark, Grace, Cooper, and Emma Lucas

Zachary and Zoey Prattini Mindy, Adam, and Quinn Joiner

Michele Grantham, Luke, Logan, and Presley

Brooke Maitrejean, Scott Maitrejean, and Maddox

Ellie, Abby, Josh, and Anthony

Jeff Loose, Barbora Krcmarova, Magdalena Vedralova, Daniela Loose, Aleks Loose, and Arienne Loose

Alexis Jenkins, Taylor Gottschalck, and Charlie Gottschalck

Krystal

Donna Martin, Grace Leblanc, and Faith Leblanc

Halloween costumes and revelry filled the streets at the 2nd Annual Nightmare on Columbia. Strollers enjoyed over 20 craft cocktails and beer served by local businesses, with a costume contest and a free concert by Deja Vu Band to end their night.

Samuel Bordes, Sr, Mary Pellegrin, Mindy Pellegrin, Ashley Pregeant, Teresa Cooper

Drake Cross, Hannah Despointes, Ashleigh Milligan, Ross Regard

Photos by Katie Ulmer

Kris and Cecile Albarado

Steve White, Michelle Pflueger, Oksana Novak

Emma Burgess and Maddie Burgess

Steve and Sara Watrus

Taylor Smith and Alix Harris

Erin Caronna, Lindsay Bagur

Nancy and Ron Lilly

Jason Gutierrez, Kim Langone, Jonathan Allen

Cheryl and Sydney Dobson

Juston Baker, Margaux Hoglind, Jonathan Gommel, Jordan Martin

Shafer Mendoza, Hannah Mendoza, Rachel Stafford, Grant Stafford, Brigitte Olin and Joe Olin

Ashley and Evan Gilbert Haylee and Jay Blair

Melissa Kase and Christine Hall Kelly and Tracie Richards

Eddie, Jennifer Allemore and Katie Rabb

Lloyd Thomas, Donna Yawn, Rachelle Triay, Paul Glahn, Mary Shea Burke, David Pixberg

Chris Schwaiger, Alissa Dennis, Evan Labat, Sydney Hemeter, Sean Bruhn