Tammany schools’ $325M bond issue heads to Saturday ballot
Slidell Memorial’s $51.5M bond issue also up for vote
BY ANDREW CANULETTE Staff writer
St. Tammany Parish voters will decide Saturday on a $325 million bond issue the public school system seeks to fund major renovations at 23 of the district’s 55 schools, upgrade security and technology, expand its bus fleet and build a Discovery Center in Lacombe to expand STEM and robotics education. Six other items are on the ballot in various parts of the parish, but the school initiative is the only one open to all parish voters Each of the parish’s 170 precincts will be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m
The school system’s bond issue would be the largest in the district’s history The proposal involves no tax increases but continues a 13.7-mill property tax that would back the bonds needed to pay for the work. Schools Superintendent Frank Jabbia said if the proposal passes, the district can fast-track capital improvement projects to address critical needs across the system and potentially save millions of taxpayer dollars.
Some $251 million would fund major renovations at schools that haven’t seen substantive upgrades in decades, Jabbia said. A major part of the plan is to eliminate portables classrooms from parish campuses.
Of the remaining bonds that would be issued, approximately $32 million would fund upgrades to school safety, security and computer systems. Another $12 million
BOILIN’ HOT
from da’ pot at the Hospice House Crawfish Cook-Off
consume at the 20th annual Hospice House
Slidell’s Fritchie Park packed for 20th annual fundraiser
BY ANDREW CANULETTE Staff writer
The 20th annual Hospice House Craw-
fish Cook-Off was as big a hit as it’s ever been when thousands of people packed into Slidell’s Fritchie Park on April 26 for the all-you-care-to-eat affair
Turns out, no surprise, that folks in south Louisiana can eat a lot of crawfish. More than 40,000 pounds of mudbugs (that’s 20 tons, y’all) were boiled up for the hungry crowds. Several dozen teams did their own boils, and the secrets in the seasoning, the soaking and all manner of surprises made each batch taste unique. Still, this was a down-home crawfish boil the kind the people of St. Tammany Parish are accustomed to attending and one the teams in the Hospice House cook-off do so well. There were a variety of ice-cold drinks to wash down the spicy crawfish, as well as
Move allows city to make long-awaited improvements
BY ANDREW CANULETTE
Staff writer
Borchert
Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert announced last week that the state recently transferred to the city ownership of almost the entire stretch of La. 1091, better known as Robert Boulevard. The recent acquisition includes the portion of Robert Boulevard from East Pinewood Drive to Gause Boulevard. The state Department of Transportation and Development also gave the city $3.687 million to assume ownership of the
bites for folks with different tastes Throw in good music and good friends and this year’s Hospice House Crawfish Cook-Off was one for the ages. For more information on the Hospice Foundation of the South, its Hospice House, the cook-off and more, go online to thehospicehouse.org.
for
the
BY WILLIE SWETT Staff writer
At a wooded enclosure not far from where he used to jump into the bayou from a cypress tree as a kid, Joe Impastato, now a St. Tammany Parish Council member, joined other parish officials on April 25 in announcing a new 25-acre park along Bayou Lacombe that will be accessible to pedestrians and cyclists via the Tammany Trace recreation trail.
The new park, Impastato said, will ensure the area remains a place for kids to hang out.
“This gives them access to the bayou in a healthy wholesome, safe way,” he said.
The 25-acre, $2 million park is the culmination of two decades of work by the parish. It will include a kayak launch, gardens, boardwalks through wetlands and a historic caboose on a rail spur a relic left over from when the Illinois Central Railroad operated a rail line along what is now the Tammany Trace.
The groundbreaking was a day before the 30th anniversary of the Tammany Trace, a significant driver of tourism for the parish. As Louisiana’s first Rails-to-Trails conversion, the 31-mile Tammany Trace traverses much of the parish from downtown Covington to the edge of Slidell and attracts about 300,000 runners, walkers and cyclists annually, parish officials say
Based on community input, the parish decided to make the park only accessible via the Tammany Trace or the bayou, Cooper said The nearby Bayou Lacombe boat launch off Main Street will remain accessible via car
“This property celebrates the rich history of Lacombe and offers passive recreational activities, while preserving the surrounding natural environment,” Parish President Mike Cooper said at the groundbreaking.
The area was long home to Choctaw Indians, former Parish Councilman Al Hamauei said. Later, in the mid-20th century, the area was used for industrial purposes. Shells dredged from Lake Pontchartrain were placed on barges and brought up the bayou and sold as building material, Hamauei added.
In a nod to that industrial past, the new park will have an Industrial Discovery Zone, as well as three other themed areas, Cooper said.
Impastato said he helped secure a deal for the parish to buy the new park’s property from the previous owner in the early 2000s, when he first served as a council member Then Hamauei, who followed Impastato as the District 7 council member from 2006 to 2012, helped acquire a grant to purchase the property when he was in office.
But it was not until about two years ago that the parish found the money to build the park. Another District 7 council member, Jimmie Davis, who served between 2020 and 2024, said he helped acquire a State Parks matching grant. Lt. Gov Billy Nungesser, who was not at the event, was also involved in acquiring the grant, Davis said. Now, with
Nick Winters sucks da’ head.
PHOTOS BY MATTHEW DOBBINS
Brian Richard, of Team Rotary, pours hot boiled crawfish into a serving boat, ready for the crowds to
Crawfish Cook-Off.
PROVIDED BY ST. TAMMANY PARISH A rendering of the 25-acre nature park the parish has planned
an area abutting
Tammany Trace in Lacombe.
would finance district transportation, including the purchase of new buses for regular education and special-needs populations. The final $30 million would go to create a STEM Discovery Center in Lacombe adjacent to Northshore Technical Community College. Programming there initially would be open to high school juniors and seniors who are interested in jobs in the medical field, though it would eventually provide expanded STEM and robotics education for students in all grades
Other items on the May 3 ballot include:
n A $51.5 million bond issue to fund improvements at Slidell Memorial Hospital, including a new pediatric and primary care outpatient center, upgrades and expansions to the women and infants center cancer care clinic and emergency room, as well as additional parking.
A yes vote for the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Service District No. 2 proposal would reduce the current tax rate from 6.75 mills to 5.99 mills but also push back the tax’s expiration from 2041 to 2045. The annual tax for the owner of a $250,000 home would drop from $118 to $105, hospital officials said. If the issue fails, the tax would continue at its current rate until 2041.
Voters in parish wards 6, 7, 8 and 9, which encompasses Slidell Memorial’s service district, are eligible to vote on the proposition. The district includes the southeastern section of the parish, extending northward to Talisheek and west to Lacombe.
n Voters in the Abita Springs area are being asked to renew three separate property taxes for the parish’s 8th Fire Protection District. They are a 9.75-mill renewal, a 9.80-mill renewal and a 14.63-mill renewal. Each of the taxes would run for 10 years, starting in 2029.
n In the Covington area, a 20-year, $2.4 million bond issue for Recreation District 6 (Lee Road Recreation). The bonds would be paid via property taxes collected in the district with an interest rate not to exceed 7%.
n Residents of the Meadowbrook subdivision near Mandeville will decide whether to impose a $490 annual parcel fee for 20 years to finance drainage improvements for the neighborhood. The fee would replace a $250 fee authorized by voters in 2007.
Reporters Willie Swett and Kim Chatelain contributed to this story
Email Andrew Canulette at acanulette@ sttammanyfarmer.net
SLIDELL
Continued from page 1A
roadway That money can be used on any number or projects in town, but Borchert noted improvements are due on Robert — one of Slidell’s busiest thoroughfares. The funds also can be used, the mayor said, to match federal highway grants that could greatly improve transportation needs in Slidell.
“We can take that money and turn $3.6 million into $18 million,” he said. “And it wouldn’t only have to be used on Robert We can take care of that road’s needs and still have additional federal money to work on other projects around Slidell.”
City officials long have wanted to place a traffic circle on Robert Boulevard between the entrances of John Slidell Park and the Country Club Estates subdivision. DOTD continually said traffic counts on the roadway didn’t warrant building the circle, but the spot is known to snarl traffic during peak driving hours, especially when there is activity at John Slidell Park. And with recent additions of a long-awaited skate park and a bank of pickleball courts at the park, it’s only logical that the number of vehicles moving through that area will increase, Borchert said.
“Two years ago, the city took over the portion of the road from the bottom of the (Interstate 12) overpass to East Pinewood,” he said. “We did that with the intent of building the circle there, but we never could get a project number from the state to do the work.”
Borchert said DOTD requested the city take over the entirety of La. 1091 within city limits if work was to move forward. After balking at an earlier deal he said was not at all favorable to the city, Borchert said he jumped at the chance to assume control of the roadway for good, especially when it came with nearly $4 million in state funds. “It becomes a city street,” he said. “If we want to expand the intersection at Audubon and Robert, we can do it We’re already looking at a handful or projects that will help. There are 13 or 14 sinkholes along Robert that we can repair now Before, when it was a state highway, we couldn’t touch it.”
Borchert said he’s confident the acquisition also will spark construction of the traffic circle at the north end of Robert Boulevard. “We’ll get there, but it needs design plans first, and that’s a process,” he said. “But any way you look at it, this is a win for the city.”
Borchert said state funding is expected to be paid in a lump sum within 30 days.
Sharmine and Andreau Groce made their annual trip from Mobile to volunteer with HancockWhitney and enjoy some crawfish.
Robert and Jennifer Hall are gonna’ eat well.
Logan Schouest, of Team Atmos, grabs a sack of live crawfish from the pile.
Jacob Butler serves up crawfish cooked by the Northlake Mudbug Masters.
Another basket of hot crawfish is scooped and served for one of the many guests at the 20th annual Hospice House Crawfish CookOff on April 26 at Fritchie Park in Slidell.
Members of the Salmen High football team take a quick break from their volunteer support of the event and chow down on some good eats.
Anita Miorana of Team Atmos serves up tasty dishes of hot mudbugs and Tenhen Cushenberry is going in for one.
A member of Team Crawdad Nation dumps live crawfish into the team’s boiling pot.
PHOTOS BY MATTHEW DOBBINS
Chris Pomes and Rocky Hickman of Crawdad Nation scoop boiled crawfish from a giant pot. They were on pace to cook almost 100 sacks of crawfish at the April 26 cook-off.
Slidell weighs 120-day moratorium on
pop-up vendor events
The order would temporarily restrict pop-ups on private property
BY SARA PAGONES Contributing writer
A proposed 120-day moratorium on outdoor pop-up vendor shop events held on private property drew impassioned objections at the April 22 Slidell City Council meeting, with vendors arguing the move would crush entrepreneurial efforts in the city
The Council ultimately decided to leave the matter on its consent calendar and moved it forward for a possible vote on May 12, but not before hearing from several supporters of the pop-up shopping events.
John Grigg, who now owns a storefront business with his wife on Robert Boulevard after getting their start with pop-ups, asked the Council to kill the moratorium rather than have a hearing on the matter May 12.
“This isn’t just about rules and regulations but also about the heart of Slidell, our identity, our values and the people who make this city shine,” Grigg said. “A moratorium would harm our smallest, most vulnerable businesses.”
Vendors include people like single moms making crafts and veterans rebuilding their lives with food trucks, Grigg said. “This doesn’t just block their booths, it crushes their hopes. It sends a chilling message that Slidell has no room for their hustle, their heart.”
He pleaded with the City Council to instead work in partnership with vendors to come up with clear rules and fair enforcement in a 30-day time frame, calling the proposed 120-day moratorium “a blunt, one-sided power play” Brandee Santini, who owns Green Oaks Apothecary in Olde Towne, said that popups help storefronts by bringing in customers. They also serve as a foot in the door for people trying to get started in business, she said. Santini said when she
opened her business in Olde Towne 12 years ago, not much was going on in the area. “How we did it is popups, and how we continue to stay in business is pop-ups,” she said, adding that the moratorium would be in effect during the summer which is the slowest time for business.
While a permitting process exists for pop-ups on public property, City Planning Director Danny McElmurray said there is no process for those on private property Instead, he said, they’ve been occurring without the fire department or police even knowing about them.
An ordinance could be crafted in less than 120 days, he said, but there are many areas that would be involved, including food, vendor and participant safety The city also needs to ensure vendors are collecting sales taxes, he said.
City officials said the moratorium stemmed from complaints about a recent pop-up event on Robert Boulevard that caused some traffic issues for neighbors. But some vendors said the city already is enforcing a moratorium even though it has not been adopted.
After the meeting, Ashley Garrett, owner of Fleur de Lis Bling and Scents, said she received a call from the city earlier in the month threatening fines if a pop-up event she was helping to organize at Kappy’s Daiquiri and Sports on Old Spanish Trail was held. It was canceled as a result, she said.
Some council members sought to assure vendors that the city is not trying to kill their businesses But council member Trey Brownfield said he viewed the proposal as government overreach.
“This is America, and this moratorium is bad for business. It’s bad for our community,” he said. Brownfield asked to head up a committee to work with vendors. Council member David Dunham also asked to serve on the committee, saying that as a business owner he wants to make sure there is a level playing field for businesses of all kinds
The City Council ultimately voted to introduce the moratorium as part of its consent calendar, with 7-1 vote. Member Cindi King voted no.
Speed limit in Folsom likely to drop to 15 mph on most roads
Aldermen will vote on May 12
BY ANDREW CANULETTE Staff writer
The Folsom Board of Aldermen is considering an ordinance that will lower the speed limit to 15 mph on all but a few roadways in the village.
The slower speed limit would apply to all Folsom roads, with the exception of Hay Hollow and Village Farms roads, where the speed limit would remain 25 mph. Speed limits on La 25 and La 40, which intersect in the heart of Folsom, would remain the same, as well.
The Board of Aldermen is expected to vote on the issue at its May 12 meeting.
Mayor Lance Willie said speeding remains one of
Folsom’s most pressing problems. If the ordinance passes as expected, a couple dozen new speed limit signs would be placed in key spots on the affected roads. Som “radar signs” that clock vehicle’s speed would placed around the village, well.
“The cut-through traffi of people passing through and trying to dodge the lights has been a major sue,” Willie said. “We’ added a fourth full-time offi cer to our police department. That, along with reducing speeding in town, will have major impact and make su kids are safe on our streets, especially with summer coming up.”
Aldermen changed one the Folsom Police Depart ment’s part-time positions to a full-time job at their April meeting.
Kids disappointed?
It was an emotional drive home, as the tears flowed from my daughter’s eyes. It was another disappointing day at the ball field. Yet again, she was playing a position she didn’t want. Yet again, she had to sit an inning. Yet again, I didn’t have a great answer as to why
She’s been playing her absolute best this season, putting in the work and keeping a positive attitude, performing well. And still, yet another disappointment.
I fumbled with my pep talk, knowing that this particular chat would revolve around “sometimes life isn’t fair.” It’s a hard lesson, but a very relevant one when it comes to life’s challenges.
Playing youth sports has been such a blessing in many ways, but even with all the good, there are times when we must have difficult conversations. This was one of them.
I did my best to encourage her and patiently waited for the emotions to come. She was frustrated. Discouraged. I could feel her confidence waning, and I was tempted to sulk right there with her
But as a parent, I had to take a step back and really think about this one. As our kids get older, we can’t always save them from disappointment, and this was one of those moments. But it is in these moments where character is built.
The ultimate message had to be, “keep going.” Keep persisting. Get better Be better Work hard. Be your own cheerleader and never miss an opportunity to do your best. Be undeniable. And that’s not just advice for sports. It’s advice for life. There will be times many of them where our kids will be dealt what feels like an unfair hand. We can’t shelter them from the realities of life’s disappoint-
ments.
It’s our job as parents to teach our kids that you can’t wallow in selfpity forever Eventually, you make the decision to get back up and work through it or learn a lesson and move on. In this case, my heart knew she wanted to keep going — and she did. And she is. And I couldn’t be more proud. I’m not just proud of her skills as a player Those are great, but I’m proud of her perseverance. It’s a skill you can’t learn from reading a book or sitting through a lecture. It’s one you can only learn through experience. And this doesn’t just come from sports. Kids will be disappointed; it’s part of life. Maybe they didn’t get a part in the school play or didn’t make the dance team or the honor choir Maybe they have to work harder for passing grades than other kids. Maybe they feel slighted at the end of the year when other kids are getting awards. Disappointment is part of the human experience, and it’s not a matter of “if” but rather “when” it will happen.
We as parents, however, have to be ready for that because how we coach them through these situations becomes part of how they grow and ultimately the person they become.
How do we do that? I dove through several studies and academic papers and here’s what I gathered.
n Identify and validate their feelings. Yeah. It really stinks. Let it all out.
n Listen. Sometimes they just need to vent.
n Encourage them. Pull out the positives.
n Lead by example. What we show them oftentimes is more important than what we tell them.
n Emphasize resiliency when it’s appropriate. So many of us are ready to battle for our kids and sometimes we should. But more often than not, I think we as parents are coddling them, always taking their side and trying to prevent them from having any type of negative experience. However, this isn’t helping them in the long run.
Letting our kids work through their own disappointments is one of the most unsatisfying gifts we can ever give them, but we have to do it. Our kids can’t let life, nor the emotions that come with it, swallow them. They can sink or they can swim. So, let’s teach them to swim.
An adult prom to help veterans
Staff report
The fourth annual Vision Is Everything Adult Prom fundraiser takes place May 3 to raise money for transitional housing provided by the Project Blessings All Year Round organization to aid veterans and others experiencing temporary homelessness in St. Tammany and Tangipahoa parishes
The event promises to be a night of glitz, glamour and good times at American Legion Post 16 at 7 p.m. in Covington.
Dust off the old prom dresses or suits and relive your prom night with a twist. Dance the night away by helping change lives, one bed at a time. The night will also honor Queen Ariyal Fabre Lewis and King Paul Lewis Jr The wine begins to flow at 7 p.m.; the presentation at 7:30 p.m.; and the catered meal at 8 p.m. Bar tickets presale and at the door; individual tickets $40; a couple, $75; and tables starting at $300. Get them at www.eventbrite.com.
PHOTO BY JESSICA SAGGIO
in life is a difficult task for parents,
learn resiliency as they age into adulthood.
Jessica Saggio
Summer reading programs begin at St. Tammany libraries
Each year, the St. Tammany Parish Library holds its Summer Reading Challenge, designed to promote reading and literacy skills for people of all ages.
Participants in the challenge can earn points, virtual badges and real prizes for reading and completing fun activities held by the library.
In addition to the reading challenge, area libraries will host events for all ages throughout the summer, creating an exciting and enriching experience for the whole family
The Summer Reading Challenge aims to encourage reluctant readers to build a lifelong habit of reading by helping build literacy skills. This year’s theme is called “Color Our World” and the program will begin May 22 and run through July 31.
The library system will hold two parties to kick off the challenge: one on May 22 at the Slidell Branch; and the other on May 23 at the Madisonville Branch Families are encouraged to join the art-themed activities, meet special guests, partake in crafts and more to celebrate the summer program.
Kids can participate in two ways The first option is to read for 15 minutes a day, aiming for a total of 720 minutes. The second option is to complete bingo activities. Participants can undertake both challenges this summer, if they choose.
Upon registration, kids will receive a prize, an SRC guide and a calendar for their library branch. Additional prizes will be awarded when they reach 720 minutes of reading, complete five bingo activities in a row or achieve a blackout on their activities bingo card.
Both options are open to teens and adults, as well, with prizes offered for both registration and for the completion of challenges.
Participants can read anything they want and have it count toward the challenge, including books, graphic novels, ebooks, audiobooks and magazines.
Participants in the challenge will use Beanstack, a free online reading-challenge program, to log reading progress, submit book reviews and receive book recommendations. With Beanstack, participants can complete challenges, earn badges and receive prizes. To get started with Beanstack, visit: sttammanylibrary.beanstack.com/ reader365.
Individuals do not need a library card to participate in the Summer Reading Challenge The process of getting a first library card
Roman
or replacing a lost one, is simple and can be done online or at any library branch For more information on area library location, go online to sttammanylibrary.org/branches.
To receive updates on the St. Tammany Parish Library’s 2025 SRC, go to sttammanylibrary.org/ summer-reading-updates/.
Other Events
n The 2025 Garden Fest will take place at the Covington Branch on May 3 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It’s part of the Louisiana Master Gardeners’ 2025 Garden Festival. The fest features plant sales, guest speakers and interactive activities for all ages. No registration is required for this event
n Armchair Travel A Journey to King Arthur’s Court: Learn about King Arthur at the Slidell Branch on May 5 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m Attendees will examine the origins of the King Arthur mythos, how it evolved over time, regional variations of the tale, and the places connected to the legend Register at: https:// loom.ly/Rd2VT-o.
n Virtual Chair Yoga: On May 8 from 1 to 2 p m , patrons can follow along on Zoom as an instructor leads participants through a sequence of stretches from a chair Have a chair without arms or wheels to participate, as well as water to stay hydrated. Register at: https://loom.ly/vqDoqJk.
Several events are upcoming for the Friends of the Slidell Library group. They include:
n A silent auction of pre-owned books related to Louisiana and the South which ends May 5 at 6 p.m. More than 70 books about history, biography, culture, plants, the New Orleans Saints, LSU sports, architecture, St. Tammany Parish (including Lacombe, Slidell, and Folsom), and more are up for bid Many of the books are signed by their authors. Bids are placed in person and high bidders do not have to be present to win The auction items are on view in display cases inside the Slidell Branch Library, 555 Robert Blvd. Important silent auction guidelines and detailed descriptions of each auction item are included in the
one of multiple
bid book which is available from the Slidell Branch circulation desk. There is a minimum bid for each item and all subsequent bids require a minimum $1 bid increment. High bidders have seven days after they receive notification from FSL to pick up their items from the Slidell Branch.
n An SSSSale (Second Saturday Special Sale) of books related to World War II will be held May 10 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Slidell library
These themed sales feature specially selected books in good or better condition. This sale will include books about battles, the various theaters of the war leaders, campaigns, weapons, reference books, and more related to World War II. Sale items will have standard prices generally ranging from $1 to $3. Cash and checks accepted for purchases.
n A used book sale in the Slidell library meeting room, 555 Robert Blvd., on May 16-17. On May 16, the members-only preview sale will take place from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Only members may select and purchase books that day, but as always, memberships are available for sale or renewal at the door Annual memberships cost $5 for individuals and $8 for families. New and renewing members receive one annual membership premium to be used during any FSL sale event in 2025. Cash and checks only for sale and dues.
The sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 17. Books typically sell for $1 or less.
This sale will feature specially priced sets of books (for children, teens and adults), a selection of vintage books, large print titles and mystery bags of books sorted by themes. There will also be several thousand books for all ages and interests, both fiction and non-fiction. Proceeds from all events benefit the Slidell, Pearl River, South Slidell and Lacombe libraries. For more information about the Friends of the Slidell Library group, its activities and membership, email fsl70458@yahoo.com.
Northshore Community Foundation honors Sylvia Bush
BY DARREN COOPER Contributing writer
Sylvia Bush never forgot Michael, a disabled boy she befriended as a child at St. Dominic’s.
Motivated by that memory, Bush dedicated her life to helping people with disabilities find ways to interact with their community, work, grow and prosper The number of people she has assisted directly and indirectly over the last 46 years is incalculable through the Options Inc. program in Hammond.
She was honored recently by the Northshore Community Foundation with its prestigious Dick Knight Award, named for the beloved founding board member of the St. Tammanybased philanthropic organization.
“I’m extremely humbled and was very surprised (to be honored with this award,)” said Bush, a longtime resident of Hammond who now lives in Natalbany “I feel honored and I’m just so grateful that God gave me what was needed and that NCF has recognized Options and been supporting us since their inception.”
Bush grew up in Lakeview and attended Mount Carmel Academy and Loyola University, where she earned a degree in sociology She started working for Catholic Charities not long after graduation, and in 1979 became the CEO/president of Options, which provides special-needs persons with a range of services, from transportation to educational programs and job placement opportunities.
“People with disabilities weren’t seen in the community a lot, and it was a learning thing for me,” Bush said. “They have always touched my heart. My husband (Ernie) and I don’t have children, so I feel like people with disabilities are my children.”
Bush now serves as president emeritus of Options and laughs that she has an office and still does whatever needs to be done, mainly working on fundraising.
“She truly lives the mission at Options and works tirelessly to remove barriers to full community inclusion for people with disabilities and their families,” said current Options President/CEO Carrie Mercke. “If something needs to happen, then she will find a way forward no matter how difficult it is. She has served as a mentor for countless other professionals across the state, including me, and she is well known as a fierce advocate for systems and policies at the state and federal level that make life better for people with disabilities.”
Now 71, Bush is as engaged as she’s ever been.
She volunteers at St. Margaret, Queen of Scotland Catholic Church in Albany, helping distribute food to the needy, and she’s also worked for a Baton Rouge food bank.
“The entirety of Options is her legacy,” Mercke said.
“There was really nothing here when she started. This was a true “ground up” situation. A very small group of parents hired her to change the world for their children. She did exactly that, then proceeded to do it for an entire community.”
The Dick Knight Award honors nonprofit professionals in the four-parish region served by the Northshore Community Foundation. The winner is chosen by the current board of directors as someone who has demonstrated continuous dedication to service and shown significant achievement through that work.
“Sylvia has spent her life doing exactly what this award represents quietly leading with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every person,” said Leslie Landry, CEO of the Northshore Community Foundation, in a news release.
“Her remarkable commitment to the mission of Options, Inc beautifully embodies the spirit in which Dick (Knight) lived his life.” Bush is the eighth winner of the Dick Knight Award. Previous recipients include Dorothy Garcia, Ola Magee, the Rev Stephen Holzhalb III, Kakki Taliancich, Rob Carlisle, Dianne Baham, and Myrna Jordan. For more information on the Northshore Community Foundation and its own programs, including the Dick Knight Award, go online to northshorefoundation.org.
“I am thrilled that Options has a wonderful staff and wonderful leadership and they are carrying on the mission and intentions of the parents, many who have passed on, to help their loved ones,” Bush said. “I love staying connected with our donors. It’s my passion and Ernie and I want to make sure Options remains viable for another 50 years.”
FILE PHOTO BY GRANT THERKILDSEN
Garriga tries the boat simulator,
activities provided during the Summer Reading Challenge party at the Madisonville Branch Library back in 2022.
Eva Saladino
PROVIDED PHOTO BY CHUCK BILLIOT
From left are Carrie Merke, CEO of Options Inc., Casey Rudolph, Development Director of Options Inc., Sylvia Bush, president emeritus of Options Inc., and husband Ernie Bush.
St. Tammany public schools boast 11 National Merit Finalists
Staff report
Eleven St. Tammany Parish Public School students representing five high schools have been named 2025 National Merit Finalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation This year’s finalists are Octavio Combellas-Jaimes, Addison Mahony and David Zhong of Fontainebleau High; Peyton Lerille of Lakeshore High; Lindsey Daigre, Isabelle Haley, Olivia Rogge and Elijah Wirtz of Mandeville High; Andrew Rodriguez and Rocky Valencia of Northshore High; and Camden Pichon of Slidell High
“To be named a finalist in the National Merit competition is an incredible honor and no small feat. This recognition is a direct reflection of the years of hard work to which these students have dedicated themselves,” said Superintendent Frank Jabbia “The fact that all 11 of our semifinalists have been named finalists also speaks volumes about the constant encouragement and guidance from our teachers and staff
We are so grateful for the entire St. Tammany community for providing the support that helps our students succeed, and we cannot wait to see what the future holds for these young scholars.”
These high school seniors, who are ranked
among the highest performing high school students in the state and the top 1% in the U.S., have an opportunity to continue in the competition for a National Merit Scholarship that will be offered this spring About half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title.
Octavio Combellas-Jaimes, from Fontainebleau High, is the vice-president of his senior class and is also a four-year member of the Fontainebleau Crimson Band, Jazz Band, and Key Club. After graduation, Combellas-Jaimes plans to attend either the Georgia Institute of Technology or the University of Texas-Austin where he will major in mechanical engineering.
Addison Mahony from Fontainebleau High, has been an active member of the Fontainebleau Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Key Club for two years, and she is currently training to become a ballet instructor Mahony’s plans following high school are to attend the University of Southern Mississippi and study accounting.
David Zhong, from Fontainebleau High, has been a member of the school’s tennis team for four years and is also an accomplished pianist and violinist. Zhong is looking forward to attending Louisiana State University and majoring in a STEM field.
Peyton Lerille, from Lakeshore High, is a
Quartet of Mandeville youths win Girl Scouts Gold Award
Each honored for exemplary work to a community cause
BY DARREN COOPER Contributing writer
Four Mandeville Girl Scouts have gone gold. Addison Altland, Susannah Donoghue, Riley Kinler and Emily Simmons, all of Mandeville, each recently earned the Gold Award, the highest honor in Girl Scouts Each of the four completed more than 80 hours of work toward a communitybased cause or specific need they wanted to address “Only 5.4% of eligible Girl Scouts earn the award,” said Rebecca Pennington, CEO of Girl Scouts Louisiana East. “Locally, we average eight to 10 girls a year earning this award. Many colleges and universities offer scholarships for Gold Award earners. Recipients of the Gold Award who enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces may receive an advance rank in recognition of their achievement.”
Altland wanted to address the issue where residents with special needs could enjoy live music events like anyone else. Her Gold Award project, “Music Without Limits,” involved contacting local music venues and finding ways they could better accommodate
those needs. Nine venues now provide headphones to attendees with acute sensory needs Donoghue focused on writers for her Gold Award. Her project “Let’s Get Lit(erary)” allowed writers at her school to share and critique one another’s work in the form of a literary magazine. She then opened her ideas up to the public to follow and create their own literary spaces Kinler saw a need at the Children’s Advocacy Center’s Hope House. She noticed that family members of children receiving counseling there didn’t have a suitable space while waiting for their loved ones. Her project, “Swing of Hope,” designed a rock platform and swing on a nearby lawn, providing a comforting and comfortable space for family members
Simmons sought to educate the public about scoliosis; an abnormal curvature of the spine typically diagnosed in children between ages 10 to 15 Her project, “Scoliosis: Raising Awareness and Providing Support” created care packages for recently diagnosed patients at Children’s Hospital New
Orleans. She also created a Facebook support group for Louisiana teens.
“Girls submit their proposal for the project to our Gold Award Committee of adults and former Gold Award earners who review the project plan and give suggestions for improvement of the plan. Then, when the project meets the required guideline for a Gold Award, they give approval for the girl to move forward with her project,” Pennington said.
“Girl Scout Gold Award earners are recognized by colleges and employers for the significance of this achievement, knowing that those who earn the Gold Award bring an unparalleled level of leadership, discipline, and impact-driven mindset.”
Girl Scouts Louisiana East honored their 2025 Girl Scout Gold Award class April 15 in Gonzales.
The other 2025 Girl Scout Gold Award earners were Alexa Chandler from New Orleans; Natalye Hilliard, from St. Gabriel; Reese Napolitano, from Destrehan; Eliana Slocum ,from New Orleans; and Alyssa Vought, from Belle Chase.
Mandeville honors the Rev. Leo P. Edgerson with street name
BY MARGARET ALBERT
Contributing writer
It’s a joyful experience when a person is honored for a life of contributions, but that’s especially true when the celebration is shared throughout the community
That was the case recently when Mandeville’s Avenue C was renamed Rev Leo P. Edgerson Drive. A street sign proclaiming the renaming was unveiled on the morning of April 5 at the corner of Kleber Street and what was Avenue C. Attendees then second-lined to the Spitzfaden Community Center, where friends and loved ones remembered Rev Edgerson and his contributions to his congregation and the city Edgerson was born in 1926 in New Orleans, but moved to the northshore as a child, graduating from St. Tammany High School He achieved the rank of sergeant in the U.S Army and was stationed in the Philippines during World War II He and his wife Julia settled in Mandeville, where they raised seven children. Edgerson succeeded his father in the ministry, serving as pastor of First Free Mission Baptist Church from 1977 until his death in 2012. His father, Charles Edgerson, preceded his son as minister of the same church for 44 years. The younger Edgerson’s life is testament that there are no limits to service. He helped organize the Samaritan Center in Mandeville
and was chosen by the Mandeville Ministerial Alliance to serve on the city’s Municipal Police Employees and Municipal Employees Board. Former Mandeville Mayor Edward Lyons proclaimed Dec. 11, 2009 to be “Rev Leo Phillip Edgerson Day,” recognizing the man’s achievements, his dedication to his church and his faithful service to the city of Mandeville.
The Edgersons were married for 58 years. Julia died in 2011 and her husband followed a year later Mandeville Council member Jill Lane said it was special to attend the renaming ceremony on April 5.
“From oldest to youngest, family members were all dressed in matching T-shirts,” Lane said. “The family had done a wonderful job of organizing the festivities. All of the street residents supporting and celebrating the renaming were in attendance, too.”
In Mandeville, the City Council must approve any suggested changes to street names. The vote approving the renaming Avenue C for Edgerson took place in July of 2024, but the family asked to delay the renaming so more loved ones could attend a public ceremony “I think it’s great that the community and the City Council supported this so that Rev Edgerson will always be honored here in Mandeville,” said Mayor Clay Madden.
member of Mu Alpha Theta and stays active with his church through volunteering. As a freshman, Lerille won first place in the Louisiana State Literary Rally for World Geography He is currently an engineering intern and plans to attend the Georgia Institute of Technology to major in computer engineering before pursuing a master’s degree.
Lindsey Daigre, from Mandeville High, is a member of the National Honor Society and is active in her youth group at Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Mandeville. She intends to study pediatric medicine to become either a registered nurse or a physician assistant.
Isabella Haley, from Mandeville High, also attends the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA) for musical theater and she is a member of the NOCCA student advisory board. Haley wants to study neuroscience and aspires to be a research scientist specializing in pharmacology
Olivia Rogge, from Mandeville High, is a member of the National Honor Society and has previously been a member of the school’s tennis and soccer teams She works as a manager at Flying Dolly’s and is also an intern at Keystone Engineering, Inc. Rogge plans to attend college and study engineering.
Elijah Wirtz, from Mandeville High, is a
three-year varsity letterman for the Mandeville High swim team. He also is a member of the Historical Film Society and the robotics team. Wirtz is looking forward to attending Georgia Tech after graduating high school.
Andrew Rodriguez, from Northshore High, is a member of his school’s football and track teams, and also of Beta Club. He has gone on two mission trips with his church youth group, and was recognized as a 2024 AP Scholar with Honors. Rocky Valencia, from Northshore High, is a member of his school’s Beta Club, Honor Society, Underwater Robotics Club, Key Club, and Mu Alpha Theta. He achieved a perfect score of 36 on his ACT Valencia has been recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction, received the National Hispanic Recognition Award, National First-Generation Recognition Award, and competed in the International Seaperch Competition. He plans to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering after graduating high school.
Camden Pichon, from Slidell High, is a member of the school band and tennis team. He is a member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta and is a student ambassador Pichon plans to attend Louisiana State University and study business and engineering.
Folsom man gets life in prison in death of son
BY WILLIE SWETT Staff writer
A state judge sentenced a Folsom man to life in prison earlier this month in the death of his 7-month-old son.
Judge William H Burris, of the 22nd Judicial District Court, handed down the life sentence to Corey Nauck, 32, on April 16 in connection with the 2018 death of his son, Carter Nauck, the Northshore District Attorney’s office said in a news release Nauck was facing the mandatory life sentence after a St. Tammany jury convicted him of first-degree murder in March following a four-day trial in Covington.
On Feb. 26, 2018, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office was notified that a baby had been brought to St. Tammany Parish Hospi-
tal with suspicious head injuries, the news release said. Two days later, after being airlifted to a New Orleans hospital and found to have no brain activity, the baby was declared dead.
After being arrested at a family member’s home in Mississippi in connection with the killing, Nauck said he “lost it” after his son wouldn’t stop crying, the news release said. His wife had gone to work earlier in the morning, and he was at home with the baby He told investigators he aggressively shook Carter in a back-and-forth motion and caused the baby’s head to strike the floor multiple times. Nauck did not call 911 to seek medical attention, the news release said. Nauck’s attorney said he was responsible for the infant’s death, but it was not his intention to kill him.
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Pichon Valencia Rodriguez Rogge Daigre
Haley Wirtz Lerille CombellasJaimes Zhong Mahony
Simmons Kinler Donaghue Altland
Edgerson
25 years ago
Federal and state environmental
officials have completed the cleanup of the old Madisonville wood preserving plant on La.22 west of town and St. Tammany officials expect it will ultimately be used as a recreational facility
“The thermal operation is complete and the site currently is undergoing final grading,” said Steven Tzhone, of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Dallas district office.
Tzhone said the EPA will perform a pre-final inspection on the site and the state will give it a final inspection next month.
“We expect to have a ribbon cutting sometime in July,” Tzhone said, to commemorate the completion of a job that has taken more than four years to study analyze and complete.
Madisonville Mayor Peter Gitz said parish and town officials have been working together to formulate a plan to put the more than 30-acre site to good use, but said much red tape must be cut before a clear title to the land can be executed. There are a number of state and federal liens against the property that must be cleared.
amount of crabs or fish returned to the lake, as the only marine life which survived this rush of fresh water were catfish and garfish,” Glockner stated.
Previous to the 1950s opening, people could see the bottom of the lake to a depth of 6 feet, he noted, saying that today, one can’t see his hand 3 inches below the surface because of the Mississippi River silt. Glockner blamed the silt for the drastic decrease in the number of shrimp in the lake.
“It’s time for some serious interest and investigations to take place before this lake becomes devoid of all marine life,” he remarked.
75 years ago
Dr Franz Polgar, the man of whom Life Magazine says he has hypnotized a million people, will appear in Mandeville on Sunday, May 14 under the auspices of the Mandeville Lions Club, according to president J.E. Sheane.
“The town has a $50,000 lien against it,” Gitz said. That came about because of the former owner’s inability to pay last month’s gas bill.
The mayor said the old wood preserving plant ran up gas bills between $20,000 and $30,000 a month.
“They always paid just like other people and they tried to pay the last month’s bill,” he said.
Paul Lea, a member of the board of directors that oversees the Madisonville area recreation district, said three people have attempted to purchase the property through tax sales. After they found out they had a Superfund cleanup site they might have to share in the cost of cleaning, they did not want to pay, “And who can blame them?” Lea said.
50 years ago
Men who work daily fishing in Lake Pontchartrain are seriously questioning the use of Bonnet Carre Spillway and its possibly adverse effects on the health of the lake. They are asking why the Morganza Spillway is not used first since it is larger, even further upriver Cliff Glockner, of Mandeville, contacted the Corps of Engineers about the worsening situation but he said that he could get no satisfaction from their views.
“In the 1950s, when the Bonnet Carre Spillway was opened,” he said, “it killed everything in Lake Pontchartrain — plants, fish, crabs by the thousands. I personally made several trips to New Orleans at that time to bring dead fish and crabs to show the federal officials what was happening to the marine life in the lake.” Glockner said that officials told him they would wait for an official complaint from the Louisiana Conservation Department before taking any action in the matter He never knew if the conservation department ever registered a complaint or not “It took eight years after this opening before any
Artists and patrons gather for En Plein Air
Demonstra -
tions of Dr. Polgar’s remarkable feats of posthypnotic suggestion, memory and mental telepathy will be given in both afternoon and evening at Duvalle’s Showboat.
The Saturday Evening Post, in an article about the mental wizard, reports that the Stage Door Canteen in Philadelphia called him back five times because he was a bigger hit than Hedy Lamarr or Lana Turner Polgar is well known to television audiences, having appeared on the Milton Berle and Arthur Godfrey shows, among others. A recent Life Magazine picture series illustrated a Polgar experiment in which five hypnotized college students were directed to drink glasses of water described to them as Champagne. All became quickly and utterly intoxicated, the happy aftermath of the episode being no hangovers!
Sheane said advance admission prices are $1 for adults and 50 cents for children.
100 years ago
It is suggested that part of the nonsense connected with the new arms conference will be talk about reducing or forbidding the use of aircraft in war. You might as well talk about eliminating railroad trains or gunpowder from war The first thing for the United States to do is to build up an aircraft force superior to that of any nation on Earth. The best time to talk to a burglar about not using firearms is when you have your own gun pointed at his chest.
125 years ago
The serio-comic drama“A Husband to Order” was presented by local talent last Saturday night at Castle Hall for the benefit of Covington Fire Company No. 1. The effort was a success from beginning to end, and the manner in which it was enacted reflected great credit upon the young ladies and gentlemen who participated, and was another evidence of the fact that Covington can boast of as fine local talent as any town in the state. Where all were so perfect in their parts, it would be superfluous to make special mention. After the performance, dancing and refreshments were enjoyed till a late hour The net receipts amounted to $52.45.
More than two dozen of the area’s finest artists displayed their works at the 16th En Plein Air art exhibit, held April 1113 at the Abita Springs Trailhead.
Each of the works was created outdoors (or “en plein air”) and 30% of profits of all sales benefited the Trailhead Museum. It’s the only fundraiser held on the museum’s behalf each year
A special reception for artists and sponsors was held the afternoon and evening of April 11 and the public was invited, to see the art, at no charge, on April 12-13.
For more information on En Plein Air or the museum, go online to www trailheadmuseum.org.
Judy Newman, David Blackwell and Helen Valenti
Ron Blitch, Sabrina Schmidt, Dick Hastings
Ben Bensen III, Jo Ann Adams, George Long
Mary Monk, Claude Ellender, Martha Gruning
PHOTOS BY GRANT THERKILDSEN
Stephen Saussy, Courtney Blitch, David Blitch, Margaret Blitch
Phil Sandusky, Hal Wilke and Sadie McMillan
Peg Usner, Niki Mendow and Louis Morales
People from all walks of life who love to sing join their voices as the Northlake Performing Arts Society
FILE PHOTO BY
GRANT THERKILDSEN
Northlake Performing Arts Society to celebrate 30 years
Staff report
The Northlake Performing Arts Society will celebrate 30 seasons of choral music in May with a new concert (performed on two days) that spans the decades with several genres of music, the selections chosen to reflect some favorites of choir members over the years. A 30th anniversary party is also planned for that memorial weekend, all in the historic Abita Springs Town Hall. A Friday evening concert takes place on May 23 at 7:30 p.m. and a May 25 mati-
nee at 3 p.m. the following Sunday After the Sunday concert performance, the 70-member chorus will hold a party from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. that is open to everyone who buys a $35 ticket before midnight on May 11. The $15 concert tickets for those 13 years and older will be sold until the concerts begin; younger guests get in free. The nonprofit music group, composed largely of St. Tammany musicians, is calling its celebratory weekend “Pearls of the Past” to symbolize 30 years of togetherness. Concert tickets or the
separate party ticket can be purchased online at https:// npassingers.org or in person at Downtown Drugs, 338 N. Vermont St., in Covington, or C&C Drugs at 2803 La. 59 in Mandeville. Concert tickets will also be sold at the door in Abita Springs at the Town Hall venue, 72077 Live Oak St Party tickets will not be available after the deadline. For anyone interested in seeing videos or hearing earlier choir performances, including its March concerts honoring local first responders, visit npassingers. org/gallery/.
AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOODS
SHOWS
LIVE: Mandeville Live! Free Fridays concerts continue May 2 when the party band Typically Booked plays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bring a chair/blanket for seating at the city’s trailhead, 675 Lafitte St., but no outside food, drinks or ice chests allowed. Concessions sold on-site.
SOUL: The next free Bayou Jam Sunday concerts featuring Big Al and the Heavyweights is scheduled from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on May 4 in Heritage Park, 1701 Bayou Lane, in Slidell. Concertgoers can bring their chairs and blankets for seating; food and beverages available for purchase on site. Park regulations say no pets, skateboards, scooters, barbecue grills or glass. In case of bad weather, check city website or Facebook page for cancellation info by noon day of event.
GROOVE: The TerraBella Village community in Covington will host a free public concert in their square on May 23 featuring the party band Groovy 7. The 5:30 p.m.8:30 p.m. event will also include food trucks, beverage vendors, and lots of green space at 111 Terra Bella Blvd. No outside food, drinks or ice chests permitted. For more, see terrabellavillage.com/ events ELVIS: Adults 55 and up are invited to join the Young at Heart group at First Baptist Church in Covington for a performance by Elvis impersonator Brandon Bennett on May 20. The program begins at 10:30 a.m., lunch at noon Cost is $15 by cash or check at the door for those who register online at fbccov.org/ adults-55 by noon on May 15. FREE JAMS: A free Traditional Jazz Jam with Ben Redwine takes place May 3 from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. at St. John’s Coffee House, 535 E. Boston St. in Covington. Another free nonprofit Northshore Traditional Music Society event, Beginner’s Bluegrass Slow Jam, takes place from 3 p.m.-5 p.m. on May 12 at the Abita Springs Trailhead 22049 Main St. Review or download the music for both groups or get more info at nstms.org.
EVERYTHING IRISH: Northshore Traditional Music Society holds its second annual Shamrock Soiree in the Abita Town Hall on May 31. A night of Irish culture: Irish music by local players and international artists; a traditional Irish community celebration with jamming and dancing; Irish food and drink. Starts at 5 p.m. Visit NSTMS.org for ticket information and event details.
THEATER
WHAT: Playmakers Theater in Covington will host the Louisiana premiere of “The Sugar Bean Sisters,” a Southern gothic comedy of romance, murder and alien abduction produced by the Evangeline Theater Co. Written by Nathan Sanders and directed by Gordon Carmadelle, see how the Nettle Sisters try to escape spinsterhood in unusual ways. Get ready for some sugar cane, an Eva Gabor wig, a swamp shack, some space aliens and plenty of laughs. Shows ThursdaySunday, May 8-11 Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.; all others at 7:30 p.m. Get tickets online at Evangelinetheater.ludus. com/index.php. (Previously purchased tickets and season tickets for the now canceled “Corpse!” will be
Now through June 15 is peak period for migration
Staff report
An estimated 1 billion migratory birds die each year in North America because of collisions with homes, commercial buildings, and other structures, contributing to a 29% drop in the overall bird population over the last 50 years. Many species are in decline in part because of these collisions including the wood thrush, which used to be a prevalent species in Louisiana, but is now a species of “conservation concern.”
“In addition to habitat loss, much of the decline of the wood thrush population is likely due to collisions with buildings,” said Van Remsen, LSU professor emeritus of natural sciences. “In fact, there are more than 100 species of migratory birds that are seeing significant decreases in population likely due in part to collisions.”
The Louisiana Wildlife Federation is calling on residents and businesses to help stem the problem by turning off bright or excess indoor and outdoor lighting from 11 p.m. until 6 a.m. through June 15 as millions of migratory birds fly through the night skies as they return north for summer months.
honored for “The Sugar Bean Sisters.”)
JUDAS: The 30 by Ninety Theatre is presenting the R-rated production “The Last Days of Judas Iscariot” for mature audiences only The play by Pulitzer Prizewinning dramatist Stephen Adley Guirgis reexamines the plight and fate of Judas; it explores deep themes of faith, justice and the human condition; it contains explicit language and questions religious perspectives that may provoke or unsettle some Directed by DeJuan “DJ” James. Shows May 2-4 and May 9-11 at 880 Lafayette St. in Mandeville; evenings and matinees. Visit 30byninety. com for more show details or to get tickets.
COMMUNITY GUMBO
FISH: Registration is open for beginning or experienced fishers ages 4 to 15 to sign up for the Youth Fishing Rodeo at Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge on June 7. A morning of fishing at the Jim Schmidt Boardwalk Trailhead/fishing access site at Exit 11 on I-59 North near Pearl River — as well as lunch for the angler’s family — is only $10 per child, but registration is required no later than May 31 or earlier if all spots are filled. Register early and pay online at www. flwr.org; phone registrations not accepted, but to request that a registration form be mailed; to ask about financial aide; or get more general info, reach rode sponsor U.S Fish & Wildlife Service and Friends of Louisiana Wildlife Refuges, call (985) 882-2025 or email lwrfriends@gmail. com or call (985) 882-2025. RUN: The West St. Tammany YMCA in Covington to host Healthy Kids Day 5K and 1-mile Fun Run at 8 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. on May 10, respectively. Immediately after, Healthy Kids Day activities begin, to include pool and waterslide (so bring swimwear), games, crafts and more. Register at RunSignUp (search YMCA HKD5K). Events start and end at YMCA, 71256 Francis Road. Proceeds help the Y give financial help to those who cannot otherwise afford services. Go online to get more information or sign up for Kids Day activities at https:// runsignup.com/Race/LA/ Covington/YMCAHKD5K. WALK: NAMIWalks, a National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Southeast Louisiana fundraiser, to host its Northshore Walk on May 17 at 9 a.m. on the Safe Haven Campus in Mandeville. Registration free for this event to also increase awareness and decrease stigma mental health issues. Participants can walk as an individual or create a team of friends, family and
co-workers to help reach $150,000 goal. Register online at www.namiwalks.org/selanorthshore. HELP: St. Tammany Health System’s Palliative Medicine program will present its next free Advance Care Planning and Education event in Covington at 10 a.m. on May 6 in conjunction with the Cinco de Mammo event at Avanti Senior Living Center, 2235 Watercross Parkway, in Covington. Public invited to this free event. For more, call (985) 871-5975.
MUSTANGS: A Local First Responders show of cars, trucks, bikes and Jeeps is planned noon to 4 p.m. May 3 in Fritchie Park in Slidell; proceeds benefit St. Tammany Firefighters’ Benevolent Association. Judging starts at noon, awards at 3 p.m. Free vehicle registrations 8 a.m.-11 a.m. or until lot is full at the 905 W. Howze Beach Road park. Also door prizes, music, 50-50 raffle, auctions and food for purchase or donation. Hosted by Northshore Mustang Club and St. Tammany fire chiefs. For more, see their websites or Facebook pages.
PEOPLE WHO MEET
SUPPORT: The Northshore Parkinson’s Support Group will meet May 7 at Lamb of God Lutheran Church, 57210 Allen Road, near Slidell; social hour at 6 p.m.; meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. The speaker will be Meredith Sharpe, a board certified neurologic music therapist with the Ochsner Neurosciences Institute. She will talk about how this type of therapy works with patients diagnosed with a neurological disorder to address sensorimotor, speech, language and cognitive training. As always, the meetings are open to everyone who has Parkinson’s Disease, as well as their care partners, family and friends, medical professionals, and anyone else interested in learning more about living well with Parkinson’s Disease.
FEDS: The Slidell Chapter of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association next meets at 1 p.m. at the Cornelius Community Center (the second white house past First Christian Church), 102 Christian Lanea. St. Tammany Clerk of Court Jessica Brewster will update members on keeping property safe from electronic theft. Before the meeting, the Lunch Bunch will meet and eat at El Paso Mexican Grill, 1100 Robert Blvd. For additional info, contact the chapter president, Elroy Noel at (985) 290-0757 or email elroynoel@bellsouth.net. All active and retired federal employees and spouses are welcome.
Louisiana is smack in the center of the Mississippi Flyway migratory path, and the state’s wetlands, forests, and coastline are critical stops for birds flying north after wintering in warmer climes. Twice a year, 325 different bird species travel the Mississippi Flyway, and during the 2024 fall migration alone, an estimated 500 million birds migrated through Louisiana. The majority of those birds fly at night and typically start their migration about 30 to 45 minutes post-sunset, with peak flights between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
While the dark skies allow migratory birds to avoid predators, take advantage of calmer air and use the moon and stars for navigation, it also brings with it dangers such as bright artificial lights and the skyglow from larger cities, which can confuse the birds, often causing them to fatally collide with buildings or windows.
“Our city lights can misguide birds, diverting them off course with often dire consequences. This initiative is an easy yet impactful step in helping these birds continue their incredible journey,” said Rebecca Triche, LWF executive director “Louisiana is well-known for the populations of migratory birds at different times of the year, and people care about keeping wildlife sustainable. By supporting the Lights Out initiative, businesses and individuals can take a practical step to protect the birds that briefly call Louisiana home.”
Individuals and organizations wanting to join others in the Lights Out initiative can fol-
Native plants and a source of water go a long way to attracting migrating birds such as this indigo bunting Wildlife conservation groups are asking people to take steps to prevent ground lighting from disrupting the return north of millions of migratory birds this spring
low these guidelines:
n Turn off nonessential lights nightly from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. during the migration period.
n Avoid using landscape lighting on trees or gardens where birds may be resting.
n For essential security and safety lighting, use dark skies-friendly lighting adjustments, including aiming lights downward, using light shields to direct light downwards and prevent an upward glare, use motion detectors and sensors so lights turn on when needed, and close blinds at night to limit the amount of light seen through windows.
For building owners and managers, they can:
n Adjust custodial schedules so they are completed by 11 p.m.
n Ensure lights are turned off after custodial cleaning.
n In buildings taller than three stories, dim or turn off exterior/decorative lighting, lobby and atrium lights, perimeter room lights on all levels, floodlights, lighting on interior plants and fountains, lights on vacant floors, lights with blue-rich white light emissions (more than 3000K in color temperature). Instead, use desk lamps or task lights rather than overhead lights, and also use “warmwhite” or filtered LEDs outdoors (less than 3000K in color temperature).
Individuals can monitor bird migration by using BirdCast, a migration dashboard provided by The Cornell Lab of Ornithology The Louisiana dashboard can be found online at https://dashboard.birdcast.info/region/USLA.
For more information about migrating birds and how to help protect them, research the Louisiana Wildlife Federation, National Audubon Society, and the American Bird Conservancy
PROVIDED PHOTO
The Typically Booked band is seet to play Mandeville Live! on May 2.
FILE PHOTO BY LIZETTE WROTEN
GETTING IT DONE
PHOTO BY MATT DOBBINS
Smith tosses a
no-hitter
in
the
deciding game of the Northshore-Walker series
PJP II baseball dominates in second-round sweep
BY DAVE WOODALL Contributing writer
Pope John Paul II wanted to make a statement as the third-seeded Jaguars opened the playoffs against 14th-seeded Houma Christian after a first-round bye.
The Jaguars did just that, scoring six runs in the first inning of each of their games en route to a Division III select second-round sweep.
In the series opener on April 24, PJP II pounded out nine hits and 11 runs to cruise to an 11-1 victory in six innings. The Jaguars actually fell behind 1-0 as Houma Christian scored in the top half of the first inning, but PJP II responded with a six-run outburst and scored in five of the game’s six innings.
Junior lefty Caden Amie got the win, allowing one run on two hits and three walks in four innings.
He struck out five. Coen Cure tossed two scoreless innings of relief
The Jaguars put an exclamation point on the series sweep with a 7-0 victory on April 25 in a game that was halted several times by lightning.
The delays didn’t affect PJP II starter Nathan Babin, who took a no-hitter into the seventh inning. He finished with a complete-game onehitter with one walk and nine strikeouts in 99 pitches.
BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer
Northshore baseball coach Jay Hodg-
es had a simple message for his team after the Panthers fell 11-0 to Walker, forcing a third game during the Division I nonselect second-round playoff series at Ned Eades Field on April 26
“I told them to go get dressed, put on your powder blues, and I’m putting all my money on you guys,” Hodges said. “They just go out and get it done. Connor Smith goes out and throws a
no-hitter in a deciding game When he is on early, he’s tough. I never doubted these guys.”
Smith struck out 11, and Northshore scored three runs in the fourth inning en route to a 4-0 victory to clinch a trip to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2019. “After the first game, we all went back to the locker room and just got over it,” Smith said. “We all had that mentality of they bleed, we bleed. They can’t beat us twice. We felt like we were better than them. I set the tone
on the mound early and just cruised with it.” Smith struck out the side in the first and retired the first 13 batters he faced before a pair of walks in the fourth. The only other Wildcat to reach base came with two outs in the sixth as Brody Singleton hit a ball back up the middle, which Hodges ruled was an error on a challenging play for the shortstop. Smith threw 108 pitches in the seveninning gem and faced just two batters
“We knew coming in how they were going to pitch us and what we needed to do to get the job done,” said Babin. “We jumped on them early with six runs, and we were prepared for what they were going to come in with. We’ve been working hard since the beginning of the year, and it’s fun to play with a group of guys that love to be out here and love to make each other better.”
Babin also excelled at the plate, blasting a tworun home run in the six-run first inning. LSU-Eunice commitment Kade Lacoste and Southwest CC commitment Andrew Hoff also doubled in the opening frame as the Jaguars took a 6-0 lead and never looked back.
“It was awesome tonight,” said Hoff. “We came out early with a bunch of energy and set the tone and put up some runs. (Babin’s)
BY MIKE PERVEL Contributing
writer
Game one of
ä See NORTHSHORE, page 2B ä See HANNAN, page 3B ä See PJP II, page 3B
Calamari hits two grand slams as Slidell advances to quarterfinals
JOSEPH HALM Staff writer
need him,” Slidell coach Cameron Lewis said “He just delivers time and time again. He’s not an emotional guy He’s like a 50 year old in his soul, so it’s funny because he hits a walk-off grand slam and looks like he’s not really celebrating as he rounds the bases. That’s just who he is. He’s a guy that we trust a lot, and he continues to come through.” Calamari’s heroics combined with a 5-1 victory on April 25 led Slidell to another Division I nonselect playoff series upset. The Tigers (27-9) will travel to 11th-seeded Sam Houston in the quarterfinals. It will be the Tigers’ first quarterfinals appearance since 2007.
See SLIDELL, page 3B
PHOTOS BY ANDI PANKS
PJP II’s Kade Lacoste celebrates a two-run double against Houma Christian on April 25.
PJP II’s Nathan Babin blasts a two-run home run against Houma Christian on April 25.
PROVIDED PHOTO
Slidell senior Brayden Calamari hit two grand slams during a 8-4 win at Northwood-Shreveport on April 26.
Pisciotta excited to lead alma mater
BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer
Pope John Paul II’s new boys basketball coach is no stranger to the program
In fact, he knows exactly how it works as a player and a coach.
A day after legendary coach Jay Carlin retired, PJP II administration elevated assistant coach Zachary Pisciotta to the head position on April 10.
A 2017 PJP II graduate, Pisciotta has spent the last five years as an assistant for the Jaguars. Pisciotta said he has always felt a call to coaching and is excited for this next chapter of his career.
“As great of a coach as Coach (Jay) Carlin is, he is an even better person Being around him these past two years has been invaluable — an experience I will never take for granted and lessons I will carry with me wherever God leads me.”
ZACHARY PISCIOTTA, Pope
John Paul II basketball coach
Chetta gave me my first coaching opportunity, and I will always be extremely grateful to him for allowing me to pursue my passion for coaching.”
Pisciotta said serving as an assistant under Carlin was special.
PJP II Athletic Director Richard Dieudonne said Pisciotta was the perfect fit to take over for Carlin
“The first time I met Coach Pisciotta, he told me how much he loved his time at PJP as a student and after he graduated from college, he always wanted to return as a teacher and a coach at his alma mater I know these past two years with Coach Carlin were very meaningful for him to have the opportunity to be mentored under someone like Coach Jay Carlin is something that is
“I am beyond grateful and extremely blessed to have been given the opportunity to lead my alma mater as its next head coach,” Pisciotta said. “I want to thank Coach Chetta Coach Green, and Coach Carlin — three incredible mentors who have guided me as a young coach, always exhibiting the proper ways a high school basketball program should be run.”
Parker Greene, left, and Wayne Kabrich, of Mandeville, stand for a photo after an LHSAA district tournament at Chateau Country Club in Kenner on April 21.
Mandeville freshmen golfers step up at district tournament
BY CHRISTOPHER DABE Staff writer
Mandeville freshmen
Parker Greene and Wayne Kabrich did not need to travel far when they each carded a 2-under 70 to help the Skippers win a district golf tournament on April 21 at Chateau Country Club in Kenner Their commutes will be far shorter when Mandeville competes on its home course when it tries to qualify for the state tournament while at the Division I Region 2 tournament at Beau Chene in Mandeville.
To call that a familiar course for these two players would be quite an understatement
“We both live there,” Greene said. “Going out there every day and practicing. Sunup to sundown.”
Their low rounds at the district tournament helped Mandeville win with a fourplayer cumulative score of 293 Mandeville along with Jesuit (306), Brother Martin (308) and St. Paul’s (308) also qualified for the regional tournament. Mandeville won with Bradley Wall (74) and Matt Yeung (79) posting the two other scores that were included in the team total. Greene came into the tournament “knowing this course was going to be really easy,” he said. “Just got to keep it on the fairway and I guess that’s what I did today.”
Greene posted his low score with the help of an eagle when his approach from about 60 yards at
priceless,” Dieudonne said.
“I feel like Coach Pisciotta has what it takes to step into his new role. He has been a constant student of the game, and his time at PJP as an assistant has prepared him for this day Coach Pisciotta loves PJP, loves basketball and knows what it takes to be successful at this school.”
Pisciotta credited his coaches during his time at PJP II for his growth as a player and coach.
“Coach Green was the epitome of what any high school athlete could ask for someone who helped players reach their full potential,” Pisicotta said. “Coach
“As great of a coach as Coach Carlin is, he is an even better person. Being around him these past two years has been invaluable — an experience I will never take for granted and lessons I will carry with me wherever God leads me,” Pisciotta said.
The Jaguars are coming off a 15-13 season, including a last-second playoff victory over Northlake Christian in the first round. Pisciotta said he plans to keep the momentum of back-to-back first-round playoff victories going.
“We will push ourselves beyond our limits, lift each other up and win or lose together,” he said. “We will
the par-4, 284-yard No. 17 bounced into the hole, he said.
As for Kabrich his improved putting on the bogey-free back nine helped him post his score.
“I missed a few putts on the front nine that cost me a few strokes,” he said
First-year Mandeville coach Allison Radtke described the two freshmen as “good rescue players.”
“They’re just competitors,” Radtke said. “They don’t let a bad shot stop them They actually play stroke by stroke. They could have a terrible shot, and they follow that up (with a good shot). They could be behind a tree, and they just play it really smart. It’s like course management — and they’re freshmen.”
Radtke noted how Kabrich’s father, Richie, is the reigning course champion at Beau Chene, providing a good foundation for the younger player
“He’s a great coach,” Kabrich said. “I love having him as a dad. It’s really special.”
Jesuit sophomore Duke Nitcher carded a 2-under 70 that matched the two Mandeville freshmen
The low-round scorers for the other team qualifiers were Gavin McDermott and Sawyer Bernard (both 74) from Brother Martin, and Parker Church and Bennett LaNasa (both 75) from St. Paul’s.
The four top teams at the regional will advance to the state championships, set for May 5-6 at The Wetlands in Lafayette.
over the minimum. He also recorded a save in the series opener
“They went into that locker room, and they flushed the first game,” Hodges said. “I wanted them to stay in there a little bit, but they were dressed and ready to go. I was excited to see them come back out that quickly It shows how tough they are.”
Northshore (31-6) took the lead in the second as Derek Weilbaecher opened the inning with a walk and scored on Jayden Hellmers’ two-out RBI single. The Panthers put the game away in the fourth by scoring three runs on four hits.
Weilbaecher singled with one out, followed by a Carson Malasovich double. Kole Brackman drove in Weilbaecher with an RBI single Aviel Johnson blasted a two-run, two-out double to the left field wall to put the game away
The Panthers have now won 16 of their last 18 games and eclipsed the 30win mark for the first time since 2018.
“We have confidence, but it’s more of the fact that we believe in each other,” Smith said. “If someone fails, the next person is going to pick them up. It’s that kind of thing with his group. It’s special. It’s really special.”
Northshore will travel to top-seeded Live Oak in the quarterfinals.
The happy ending was a stark contrast to the opening game Saturday. Trailing 1-0 in the series, Walker (27-13) pounded out eight hits and took advantage of 10 walks to earn an 11-0 victory in six innings. Singleton’s two-run
home run in the sixth inning ended the game early
That offensive explosion was unique for both teams as the Panthers took Game 1 on Thursday by a 3-1 margin.
Northshore’s D avid
Cantrelle blasted a threerun home run in the third, and that was all senior Carson Malasovich needed.
The Wildcats took a 1-0 lead in the first as Jordan Ard’s two-out RBI double scored Braylen Montgomery who was hit by a pitch to open the game
The Panthers answered with two outs in the third. Gavin Powell walked with one out before Brody Dukes’ two-out single started the
rally Cantrelle blasted a 2-1 pitch off the left field wall to clear the bases and set the final score. Malasovich (11-0) allowed one run on two hits and
and struck out the
PROVIDED PHOTO
PROVIDED PHOTO
PJP II alum and assistant coach Zachary Pisciotta was named the new boys basketball coach on April 10.
Lakeshore falls in three games to Rayne
Pearl River, St. Paul’s swept
BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer
Lakeshore forced a third game against sixth-seeded Rayne, but the Wolves rallied to earn a 3-2 walk-off win and clinched a Division II nonselect second-round series victory on April 26.
The Titans were down to their final three outs before forcing extra innings with a tworun seventh in the third and deciding game
Senior Reese Sanzone started the rally with a double and later scored on Mason Prinzo’s RBI single. Greg Cusimano belted a double before Prinzo scored on an error to tie the game.
The Wolves scored the game-winner on Kainon Suiter’s RBI single in the eighth in-
ning to advance to the quarterfinals.
In the second game of the series, Lakeshore (16-15) scored 14 runs on seven hits to force the Saturday doubleheader
Prinzo had three RBIs, while Sanzone, Cusimano, Grant Boullion and Kaleb Hayes drove in two runs each. Boullion and Prinzo also blasted a home run as the Titans took advantage of eight walks and stole seven bases.
Amari Woods got the win, allowing one run on four hits and two walks in five innings.
In the opening game, the Titans also fell in walk-off fashion as Rylan Fontenot drew a one-out bases-loaded walk in the seventh to secure a 2-1 victory on April 25. Sanzone pitched well in the loss, allowing two runs (one earned) on five hits and three walks in 6.1 innings He struck out six. Lakeshore scored its lone run in the fifth as Sanzone opened the inning with a double. Courtesy runner Garreth Hernandez scored on a
passed ball with two outs to tie the game.
IOWA SWEEPS PEARL RIVER: The 12th-seeded Rebels were held to five runs in two games as the fifth-seeded Yellow Jackets earned a Division II nonselect second-round series sweep. In the opening game on April 25, the Yellow Jackets used a seven-run fifth inning to turn a two-run game into an 11-4 victory
Junior Xan Harwell took the loss allowing nine runs on seven hits and six walks with six strikeouts in 4.1 innings. Harwell went 3 for 3 with a double, while Dalton Sabathe belted a two-run home run and had three RBIs. Jake Clifton drove in the other run for the Rebels (14-14).
In the second game, Iowa scored three runs in the top of the first and never looked back en route to a 6-1 victory Clifton took the loss, allowing six runs (three earned) on five hits and one walk with nine strikeouts in six innings. Noah Long drove in the lone run
PJP II
Continued
through 5.1 innings before giving up a hit. He finished before reaching the mandatory 115-pitch count limit, throwing 114 pitches with 63 strikes.
“Owen was sharp, with good pitch location,” said Hannan sophomore catcher Carson Massey
“He missed just low with some of his pitches, but that didn’t bother him. He worked ahead in the pitch count, and that helped him control things in key situations. He never rushed, staying focused It’s so much fun catching (Stempel) because he never seems to get rattled.
With the score tied at 1-1, Hannan’s Cooper Fletcher drew a leadoff walk to open the sixth. Third baseman Reed Long pushed a bunt just past a diving Holton, beating it out for an infield single. Holton struck out the next Hannan batter before Nate Tardo reached to load the bases.
Junior right fielder Colt Manning, starting only his second varsity game, blasted an RBI single to right. On the throw, the ball bounded away from the Wolves’ catcher, allowing Long to score as well.
“It doesn’t get much better than this,” Manning said. “I stepped in looking for a fastball on the outside edge, and that’s what I got. Their pitcher had nasty stuff with a great slider and a big curveball.” Hannan fourth-year coach Chris Garrett, who is stepping down after this season due to family considerations, was proud of how his team battled in a tight playoff atmosphere
“We’ve never made it past the second round, so this is special for our 11 seniors. I’ve been with them since their freshman year, and they continue to make me proud. Those guys continue to make a difference,” Garrett said.
Scoreless through four and a half innings, Hannan scored the game’s first run without the benefit of a hit in the fifth.
Manning and Brody Smith both walked and advanced to second and third via Patrick Kennedy’s sacrifice bunt Manning scored on a wild pitch.
on a fielder’s choice grounder that scored Aiden Ward in the second inning. HOLY CROSS SWEEPS ST PAUL’S: The 15th-seeded Wolves could only manage three runs in two games as second-seeded Holy Cross earned a Division I select second-round series sweep. In the series opener on April 24, Holy Cross used a three-run first inning to secure a 3-1 victory St. Paul’s Jude Roberts pitched well in defeat, allowing three runs (two earned) on four hits and four walks with seven strikeouts in six innings. Cameron Caime drove in the lone Wolves’ run with a sixth-inning sac fly that scored courtesy runner Carter Stephens. In the second game on April 25, Holy Cross scored the first seven runs en route to a 7-2 series-clinching victory Easton Springmann and Jude Roberts both recorded an RBI for the Wolves (10-20). Easton Leblanc took the loss, allowing five runs on six hits and two walks with four strikeouts in two innings.
pitching and hitting were great for us. We’ve had a very good season so far and we will continue to prepare for some tough competition in the next round.”
The Jaguars (24-8) picked up another run in the second inning on a walk to Amie and singles by Hoff and Babin. Logan Cooper followed with a fielder’s choice RBI grounder to score Amie and set the final score.
“We came into the game exactly how we wanted by jumping on them early,” said PJP II coach Brian Babin.
“Nate threw the ball well tonight and has done well all season. We will see what happens in the next round against whoever we face. If we come
Holton pitched well in the loss, surrendering just three hits and four walks with 11 strikeouts in six innings.
SLIDELL
Continued from page 1B
Calamari (6.1 IP, 6 H, 2 R, 5 BB, 7 K) finished with eight RBIs at the plate, and the right-hander pitched six scoreless innings before a double and a walk in the seventh chased him from the game. The Falcons scored four runs in the frame to tie the game. The Tigers were unfazed as
Slidell calmly loaded the bases before Calamari blasted the first pitch he saw over the left field fence. Lewis said Calamari’s heroics were set up by several quality at-bats for the Tigers. Xavier Paul was hit by a pitch to open the seventh. Austin Buell singled as he pulled back on a sacrifice bunt attempt and slashed a single past the infield Junior Burdett drew a six-pitch walk to load the bases for the dramatic finish. In the opening game on April 25,
Loranger coach Derek Sims said both clubs figured it would be a
Slidell senior Troy Green struck out 12 over 6.2 innings as the Tigers opened the series with a 5-1 win. Green allowed just one unearned run on three hits and two walks. Burdett recorded the final out via a strikeout to seal the
great pitching matchup.
“We were throwing our No. 1 dude against their No. 1 dude. It was a great high school baseball playoff game. Give Hannan credit for getting those late runs They had a tremendous push bunt for a hit, and we made a couple of mistakes,” Sims said.
The Hawks closed out the series with a 5-0 victory on April 26 in
a game that was postposed a day by heavy rains on Friday evening. Hannan senior Patrick Kennedy tossed a complete-game three-hitter to earn the victory He struck out five in 71 pitches.
Offensively Reed Long had three RBIs while Cooper Fletcher and Sam Loeb also each drove in a run. Stempel added two hits and two runs scored.
“It’s exciting,” said Garrett about advancing to the quarterfinals. “We were looking the other night, and it’s been 15 years since Hannan has made it past the second round. It was a goal before the season, so we checked that off the list. But what was most encouraging was that the players were excited, but their attitude was basically, ‘we did our job, and now what’s next?’ They are focused on making a run.” The Hawks (21-14) will travel to third-seeded Loyola Prep in the quarterfinals.
GAME 2 LINESCORE HANNAN — 000
PHOTO BY ANDI PANKS
Hannan baseball coach Chris Garrett
Hannan second baseman Patrick Kennedy reacts to making an out against Loranger
PHOTOS BY MATT DOBBINS
Hannan second baseman Patrick Kennedy corrals the throw to tag out Loranger’s Tanner Matherne on his attempted steal of second base on April 24
Hannan’s Owen Stempel earned a complete-game victory during a 4-1 second-round win over Loranger
Hannan falls in extra innings to St. Charles
BY MIKE GEGENHEIMER
Contributing writer
Both Hannan and St. Charles Catholic had opportunities to win their Division II select softball quarterfinals game on April 26
St. Charles made the most of those opportunities. Hannan was less fortunate.
The third-seeded Hawks fought to force extra innings, tying the game at 1-1 with one out in the bottom of the seventh. But ultimately that was not enough as they suffered a 4-2 upset at the hands of the sixth-seeded Comets in eight innings.
“We do this a lot,” Hannan senior second baseman Makenzie Jackson said. “We start behind, and we always come back I had faith that we would (come back). But it just didn’t work out in our favor
It took some late dramatics, but the game was even through seven innings.
St. Charles took the lead in the fourth on an RBI double by pitcher Riley Perilloux. And it appeared that might be enough for the win with Perilloux pitching a four-hit, shutout going into the final inning.
But with the season on the line, Hannan scored the game-tying run on a fielder’s choice by first baseman Grace Furlow, who legged out a potential season-ending double play With the defense focused on Furlow, Jackson, the team’s only senior, sprinted home where she slid under the tag for the run.
Hannan coach Becky Lambert said it was a play the Hawks practiced all season sending Jackson home with two outs, and this time it gave Hannan one final chance in extra innings.
“Run hard and slide,” Jackson said of her mindset running home. “I knew she was throwing at me, but we’ve been working on don’t stop. If you know you can score, then don’t stop.”
It didn’t take the Comets long to rally for the victory in the eighth after a pair of singles and a walk loaded the bases with no outs
That’s when Perilloux stepped to the plate to launch a 3-run double just out of reach of the Hannan left fielder The junior went 2 for 4 with four RBIs on top of allowing only two runs on eight hits and striking out two in a complete-game performance.
“I was telling myself to breathe and that it was OK,” Perilloux said. “And I knew if I didn’t get it done, then my teammates behind me would pick me up and get it done.” Hannan managed to add one run in the bottom of the eighth on an RBI single by catcher Riley Williams, but that’s where the comeback effort ended.
Hannan sophomore pitcher Ava Kulivan gave up four runs on six hits and had six strikeouts.
“We had a good season. Overall, I think they learned a lot and they did well,” Lambert said. “But we have to get better If we’re going to advance, we have to deal with pressure better and make adjustments at the plate.”
LINESCORE
A freshman stepped up in PJP II’s quarterfinal run
BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer
Trailing 7-3 after three innings against seventh-seeded St. Louis, the Pope John Paul II bats came alive, and the 10th-seeded Jaguars softball team is headed to the quarterfinals for the third straight season.
PJP II scored eight runs in the fourth and fifth innings to hold on for an 11-10 Division III select second-round playoff win on April 22.
“We turned it on in the fourth and fifth innings,” said Jaguars’ interim coach Shane Rodriguez. “Those two innings, we just hit. We’d have a big hit and then a big walk Everybody was just so excited. This felt like a state championship game with the way we were in the dugout and the energy we had on the field. It just felt really good.”
The Jaguars also had to overcome the absence of starting pitcher Ella Babin. The junior tossed a two-hitter in the opening round but missed the second round due to an illness. Freshman Frankie Thompson stepped in for her second start of the season.
“She did great,” Rodriguez said.
“She was nervous as can be, but I told her that she was made for this. Frankie is a fighter and she showed it. She came through for us. We had to change up some pitching in the middle of the game, and she adjusted well. She threw a great game.” Thompson got the completegame victory, allowing 10 runs on 13 hits and four walks with a strikeout in 115 pitches.
At the plate, the Jaguars pounded out nine hits and drew six walks. In the fourth inning, Kam Rodriguez belted a three-run double to cut the lead to 7-6 The
Jaguars’ bats were just getting started. In the fifth inning, Thompson opened the inning with a walk and later scored on an error to tie the game Two runs scored on Isabella Gonzales’ one-out single to give PJP II the lead for good. Mallory Whitten and Kam Rodriguez added RBI singles to build an 11-7 lead. Kam Rodriguez finished 2 for 5 with four RBIs and a run scored, while Kasia Rodriguez went 2 for 4 with a walk and two runs scored. Catcher Marly Geissler also went 2 for 4 with an RBI. PJP II (15-10) lost 17-1 in four innings to second-seeded D’Arbonne Woods Charter in the quarterfinals on April 26. The Jaguars scored first on Thompson’s RBI single to scored Kam Rodriguez. The Timberwolves reeled off 17 unanswered run to close out the victory
Hannan’s Josie Pathoumthong laces a double against St. Charles Catholic.
Hannan’s Ava Kulivan winds up.
Hannan catcher Riley Williams camps under a pop-up.
Hannan third baseman Alya Taylor picks a sharp grounder against St Charles Catholic.
Hannan’s Josie Pathoumthong makes a diving catch in centerfield.
PHOTOS BY HERB GOMEZ
Hannan’s Makenzie Jackson scores in the bottom of the seventh against St. Charles Catholic on April 26.
PHOTO BY MATT DOBBINS
Pope John Paul II freshman Frankie Thompson made her second start of the season during a second-round playoff game on April 22.
Pearl River, SSA fall in second round SOFTBALL ROUNDUP
Staff report
The ending was tough, but Pearl River softball coach Courtney Labourdette had nothing but positive memories of her team.
The 19th-seeded Rebels pushed third-seeded Assumption for the entire game before the Mustangs earned a 2-0 walk-off victory on Ella Mabile’s two-run home run during a Division II nonselect second-round game on April 22.
Pearl River freshman Riley Falcon pitched well in the loss, allowing two runs (one earned) on seven hits and three walks in 6.1 innings. The Rebels (12-13) managed just four hits as
LSU-Eunice signee Mylie Elsensohn and freshman Mackenzie Blappert had two doubles each. Sophomore Rockie Graves, freshman Bralyn Kelly and senior Hallie White each drew a walk.
“We really did have a great season,” Labourdette said. “I am extremely proud of our team. Assumption is a great team. Our pitcher did a great job of keeping them off balance, and our defense played a great game, one of the best all season. We have a great group of young players, and our senior experience and leadership is unmatched. We will miss this group of seniors not only for their
skill set but for their character and love of the game. I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds for this young group of players.”
JOHN CURTIS 10, ST. SCHOLASTI-
CA 0: The 20th-seeded Doves fell to the defending Division I select state runnersup in five innings on April 22 The Patriots scored in each inning while holding the Doves (9-14) hitless. SSA only managed three baserunners in the game. The first two came in the fourth inning when Karsen Boyet reached on an error, and Ava Gassen worked an eight-pitch walk. Juliette DuPont reached on an error in the fifth.
a 15-0
Northlake Christian softball embraces adversity during gritty quarterfinals
BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer
Northlake Christian coach Clint Willie
could tell that his junior pitcher had a little extra grit as the 11th-seeded Wolverines took on sixth-seeded Houma Christian on April 23.
Junior Abigail Willie struck out seven of the first nine batters she faced, and Northlake scored three runs in the third inning en route to a 3-1 Division III select second-round playoff victory
“I am so proud of our team for bringing it all together,” Clint Willie said. “We have faced plenty of adversity this season, but the girls are fighters and want to play some more softball.” That might be an understatement. The victory sent Northlake (12-13) to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2019 and marked the first time the team has won two playoff games in the season since 2007
“We play our best when we have fun together and play for each other,” said Abigail Willie, who allowed one run on three hits and two walks with 11 strikeouts. “We had some great plays in the field, which pushes me as a pitcher to keep working. I am so proud of our team and what we have accomplished.” Sophomore Harper Boren opened the third inning with a walk, followed by Abigail Willie’s double to put two on with no outs. Boren later scored on a passed ball, and Willie scored on an error Sophomore Maitland Popham belted an RBI single to score junior Samantha Raimondi, who
reached on a walk.
Leroy Joseph “Buddy” Cossé, age 88, peacefully passed on April 16, 2025 He was born in Port Sul‐phur, Louisiana on April 14, 1937, where he lived most of his life until he retired to Slidell to be near his son and grandsons. He was the beloved husband for 53 years of the late Patsy Pi‐chon Cossé He is also pre‐ceded in death by his par‐ents, George Cossé Sr. and Evelyn Rouselle Cossé his brother George Cossé Jr and his sister Eileen Cossé Edgecombe. He is survived by his son, Michael Joseph Cossé (Andrea), grandsons Andrew Cossé and Mitchell Cossé (Ashley), great grandchildren; Grace, Ava and Dustin, and his broth‐ers Gilbert Cossé and Rene Cossé He is also survived by and preceded in death by a host of in-laws, many nephews and nieces, and dear friends. Buddy gradu‐ated from Port Sulphur High School in 1955 and graduated with a B.S. from Northwestern State Univer‐sity in Natchitoches, Louisiana He was an ac‐complished athlete in high school, semi-pro 3rd base‐man for the Port Sulphur Merchants and Regional Badminton Champion for Northwestern State Univer‐sity. “Coach” was loved by many as a teacher, coach, and principal at Delta Her‐itage Academy in Buras, Louisiana He later became recreation director of Plaquemines Parish and re‐tired in 2003. Buddy and Patsy were well known owners of the Melody Lounge in Port Sulphur for 9 years He also enjoyed many years as a substitute teacher in the St Tammany Parish schools. Buddy was an avid fisherman and duck hunter He was the chairman of the Plaquem‐ines Parish Chapter of Ducks Unlimited for 10 years and founding mem‐ber of the re-established Delta Duck Hunting Club His friends and family have many fond memories with him and the iconic house‐boat; the Delta Duck Arrangements by Honaker Funeral Home, Inc., Slidell, LA
adored. Her nurturing and steady support left an in‐delible mark on their and their children’s lives A de‐voted lover of nature and animals, Glenda opened her heart and home to countless dogs and cats over the years, each one becoming a treasured member of her family and filling her life with wagging tails and muddy paws. Her love for animals extended beyond her home as she also took great joy in car‐ing for and appreciating the wildlife that visited her backyard Birds, deer, squirrels, and even rac‐coons were welcome guests in the sanctuary she created. Those who knew Glenda will remem‐ber her for her sense of humor, affable nature, gen‐erous spirit and loving heart She leaves a legacy of compassion kindness and unwavering love for her friends and family She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Terry Cunningham, her parents, Donald and Eleanor Fausterman Gillen, her brother-in-law, Joey Hefler, and her dear son, Vic Cun‐ningham, all of whom she held close in her heart throughout her life. She is survived by her daughters Valerie Semmes (Paul), Lisa LeBlanc (Dennis), and her son Garry Cunningham (Shelly), her granddaugh‐ters André Cooper St Pierre (Steve), Gabrielle LeBlanc and Jillian Cun‐ningham, and her greatgrandchildren Brianna St Pierre, Kaleb St. Pierre, and Grayson St. Pierre. She is also survived by her older brother Jerry Gillen (Phil) her younger sister Patsy Hefler her longtime friend Dottie Davis, her nieces Shannon Gillen Frugé (Bobby) Elayne Gillen Mes‐man (Glenn), and her pre‐cious dog, Odie. She will be missed dearly, but her beautiful spirit lives on in every rustling tree, every bird’s song in the memory of every animal that found a home because she cared and most of all in the hearts of the family and friends she cherished so deeply The family would like to extend their deep‐est gratitude to the com‐passionate staff at PAM Health Specialty and Reha‐bilitation Hospital of Cov‐ington and Dr Tran for the exceptional care and sup‐port provided during Glenda’s final days E. J Fielding Funeral Home were honored to be en‐trusted with Mrs Cunning‐ham’s funeral arrange‐ments.
run
“It’s fun watching the girls step up and seize opportunities,” Clint Willie said.
Northlake’s playoff run has been a perfect example of that mentality The Wolverines lost their sophomore leadoff hitter Sydney Fraher in the first round when she suffered a broken leg during a play at second.
“That was a gut punch for our team,” Clint Willie said. “That same game, we got our catcher Maitland Popham, back in the lineup. She went 2 for 3 yesterday at the plate. It seems like every day someone new steps up and embraces the challenge.”
Popham had been out six weeks rehabbing a shoulder injury but when she returned, she didn’t miss a beat. The other key to the victory was that the Wolverines didn’t commit an error for the second straight game.
“This game truly was a collective team win, and I couldn’t be prouder of my teammates,” Popham said. “Abigail Willie pitched an incredible game, and everyone stepped up defensively This win is a testament to the determination our team has to overcome adversity, and I am excited to move on to the quarterfinals.”
Northlake lost 11-1 in five innings to third-seeded Notre Dame (31-2) in the quarterfinals. The Pios scored 10 unanswered run to break open a 1-1 tie in the second inning. Maddie Henderson’s RBI single drove in Popham for the Wolverines’ lone run.
Contact Joseph Halm at jhalm@ sttammanyfarmer.net.
bird’s song, in the memory of every animal that found a home because she cared, and most of all in the hearts of the family and friends she cherished so deeply The family would like to extend their deep‐est gratitude to the com‐passionate staff at PAM Health Specialty and Reha‐bilitation Hospital of Cov‐ington and Dr. Tran for the exceptional care and sup‐port provided during Glenda’s final days E.
and loved
Funeral Home was en‐trusted with funeral arrangements.
Glenda Eleanor Gillen Cunningham 78, a beloved wife, sister, mother, and friend, passed away peace‐fully on April 13, 2025, fol‐lowing a short illness. Born June 12, 1946, to Donald and Eleanor Gillen in New Orleans, and a longtime resident of Covington and Madisonville Glenda en‐joyed life to the fullest She grew up in Jefferson Parish, playing with and surrounded by friends and cousins, forming bonds that would last a lifetime She married Terry Cunning‐ham, her husband of 32 years, and was a proud and loving stepmother to their children, whom she adored Her nurturing and steady support left an in‐delible mark on their and their children’s lives. A de‐voted lover of nature and animals, Glenda opened her heart and home to countless dogs and cats over the years, each one becoming a treasured member of her family and filling her life with wagging tails and muddy paws. Her love for animals extended beyond her home as she also took great joy in car‐ing for and appreciating the wildlife that visited her backyard. Birds deer squirrels, and even rac‐coons were welcome guests in the sanctuary she created Those
Northlake Christian starter Abigail Willie allowed one hit during
first-round win over Episcopal on April 17.
Cossé, Leroy Joseph 'Buddy'
Glover Jr., John Armand
Deacon John Armand Glover, Jr. passed away on Saturday, April 12, 2025. He was born in New Orleans LA on June 27, 1952. He is survived by his children John Glover III (Amanda), Kate Bilbo (Allen) and Julie Woodard (David); grand‐children, John Glover IV, Annabelle Glover, Leo Woodard, Maggie Bilbo and Samuel Bilbo. He is also survived by his brother, Hammon Mynders Glover (Deb LaQua) He was pre‐ceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Kathleen Debo‐rah Brown Glover; his par‐ents Julie Mynders Glover and John Armand Glover, Sr. Deacon Jack was a na‐tive of New Orleans and was ordained in 1987 as a Permanent Deacon He was
Cunningham, Glenda
/s/C.MATTHEW
President /s/FRANKJ. JABBIA, Superintendent 135045AP23-30-2T $59.86
PUBLICNOTICE
REQUESTFOR PROPOSALS
Each proposal shall besealedinanenve‐lope clearly marked on the outside, "REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)#200-ON COPYING EQUIPMENT/ SERVICE FOR GRAPHIC ARTS –JUNE2,2025." The St Tammany ParishSchoolBoard reserves the right to adjust quantities by increasing or de‐creasing and to re‐ject any and all pro‐ posals ST TAMMANY PARISHSCHOOL BOARD /s/ MATTHEW E. GREENE,President /s/FRANKJ. JABBIA, Superintendent 138280AP30‐MAY7-2T $59.86
I,
(225)342-5421 137427 - APR 23-30 MAY 7 3T $310
Proposals will be re‐ceived by the St Tammany Parish School Board, 321 N. Theard Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433, until 3:00 p.m., Monday, June 2, 2025, to provide Copying Equip‐ment/Service for the St Tammany Parish School Board Graphic Arts De‐partment. Additional informa‐tion and specifica‐ tions will be fur‐nished upon request at the School Board Office. Proposal documents can also be found on www stpsb.org and www centralbidding.com. Each proposal shall besealedinanenve‐lope clearly marke on the outside, "REQUEST FO PROPOSAL (RFP)#200-ON COPYING EQUIPMENT/ SERVICE FOR GRAPHIC ARTS –JUNE2 2025." The St
PUBLICNOTICE 22ndJUDICIAL DISTRICT COURTFOR THEPARISHOF STTAMMANY STATEOF LOUISIANA DOCKETNO. DIVISION“___”
INRE:MARLEY JANELANDRY ANDRYLEIGH MICHAEL LANDRY MINOR CHILDRENOF TRAVIS JEROME LANDRY FILED DEPUTYCLERK
NOTICEOF APPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT ASLEGAL TUTRIX
Chagnard, legal guardian of minors Marley Jane Landry and Ryleigh Michael Landry has pursuant to the pro‐ visions of the La C.C.P. Article 3281 and La CCP Article 3443 petitioned this Honorable Court to appoint her as Legal Tutrix: NOW, THERE‐FORE, in accor‐dance with law, no‐tice is hereby given thatMidge Chagnard, legal guardian of minors minors Marley Jane Landry and Ryleigh Michael Landry, be appointed as Legal Tutrix so that she may assert the minor’s rights as beneficiaries of the Succession of Travis Jerome Landry in the Mis‐sissippi probate court, and heirs, legatees and credi‐tors are required to make opposition, if any they have or can,tosuchappoint‐ment, within ten (10) days, including Sundays and holi‐days from date whereon the last publication of this noticeappears.
PUBLICNOTICE
“Anyone having in‐formation or know‐ing the whereabouts of Krystal Lynne Noaker a/k/a Krys‐ tal L. Noaker a/k/a Krystal Noaker or any heirs, succes‐sors, administrators or assigns of Krystal Lynne Noaker a/k/a Krystal L Noaker a/k/a Krystal Noaker, please con‐tact Ana Lopez, at‐torney, at (985) 8452227 or 403 W. 21st Avenue Covington, LA 70433. Court proceedings in‐volved.” 138084AP30-1T $113.24
PUBLICNOTICE
or any succes‐sors, administrators or assigns of Stephanie Elaine Kennedy a/k/a Stephanie Elaine Kennedy Maurice, please contact Ana Lopez, attorney at (985) 845-2227 or 403W. 21stAvenue, Covington, LA 70433. Court pro‐ceedingsinvolved 138119AP30-1T $113.24
PUBLICNOTICE
Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Corey J Migliore contact Cynthia Petry, Atty, (985) 871-1110, 301 N. Columbia St, Cov‐ington,LA70433 137977AP30-1T $65.85
PUBLICNOTICE
PUBLICNOTICE Anyone knowing the whereabouts of KennethE Franzen the heirs, adminis‐trators, or assigns, please contact Wayne M Aufrecht, Attorney at Law (985)893-3361 137976AP30‐MAY7-2T $121.26
PUBLICNOTICE
Anyone knowing the whereabouts of or having any infor‐mation regarding Victoria C Hughes, please contact David P. Sirera at‐torney, at 2113 Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville LA 70448, (985) 8074854. 137854AP30‐MAY7-2T $143.16
PUBLICNOTICE Lost Promissory note:Anyone know‐ing the whereabouts or having posses‐ sion of one (1) cer‐tainpromissorynote executed by Tiffany Nicole Yates and David Edward Nor‐ris, Jr.; dated 09/18/2020, in the principal sum of $138,383.00; please contact Dean Mor‐ris, L.L.C.,
/s/ MATTHEW E GREENE,President /s/FRANKJ. JABBIA, Superintendent 138280AP30‐MAY7-2T $59.86
Anyone knowing the whereabouts of KennethE Franzen, the heirs, adminis‐trators, or assigns, please contact Wayne M Aufrecht, Attorney at Law (985)893-3361 137976AP30‐MAY7-2T $121.26
ATTORNEYSUSPENDED
ATTORNEYSUSPENDED
John Michael Mezaraups, Mandeville, (2024-OB-01398) Transferred to disability inactive status by
TimothyMathison,ofSlidell,hasbeensuspended fromthe practiceoflaw fora period of ninety days,fully deferred, subject to respondent’s
NOTICE IS GIVEN that Midge Chagnard, legal guardian of minors Marley Jane Landry and Ryleigh Michael Landry has pursuant to the pro‐ isions of the La .C.P Article 3281 d La CCP Article 443 petitioned this Honorable Court to appoint her as Legal Tutrix: NOW, THERE‐FORE in accor‐dance with law, no‐tice is hereby given thatMidge Chagnard, legal guardian of minors minors Marley Jane Landry and Ryleigh Michael Landry, be appointed as Legal Tutrix so that she may assert the minor’s rights as beneficiaries of the Succession of Travis Jerome Landry in the Mis‐sissippi probate court, and heirs, legatees and credi‐tors are required to make opposition, if any they have or can,tosuchappoint‐ment, within ten (10) days, including Sundays and holi‐days, from date whereon the last publication of this noticeappears.
CLERKOF COURT
“Anyone having in‐formation or know‐ing the whereabouts of Stephanie Elaine Kennedy a/k/a Stephanie Elaine Kennedy Maurice or any heirs, succes‐sors administrators or assigns of Stephanie Elaine Kennedy a/k/a Stephanie Elaine Kennedy Maurice, please contact Ana Lopez, attorney at (985) 845-2227 or 403W. 21stAvenue, Covington, LA 70433. Court pro‐ceedingsinvolved 138119AP30-1T $113.24
OF ST.TAMMANY
List of the Central Jury Pool forthe Central Jury Term of Court to be held beginning on Monday, May12, 2025 and drawnonWednesday, April 2, 2025
Mandeville signing class includes a D-I kicker, three cheerleaders
BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer
Mandeville celebrated its seven-person Spring signing class with three football players, three cheerleaders and a baseball player on April 24.
Skippers’ kicker Creighton Wilbanks picked Southern Miss, his mother’s alma mater, over Virginia Tech.
“We’re big Southern Miss fans, and I’ve been one since I was a little kid,” Wilbanks said. “I had the opportunity to choose between Virginia Tech and Southern Miss. Personally, I like the warmer weather and being a little bit closer to home. It’s been weird with some of the coaching changes, but they have been great. It was just the perfect fit for me.”
The 5-foot-10, 170-pound senior averaged 42.5 yards per punt with a long of 63 last season. He also handled kickoff and field goal duties with 63 touchbacks in 68 attempts while converting on 7 of 9 field goal tries, including a long of 53 yards. He was a perfect 58 of 58 on extra points.
“Creighton was a huge, huge weapon for us on special teams,”
Mandeville coach Craig Jones
said. “He’s a phenomenal athlete. I tried forever to talk him into being a wide receiver, but he just wanted to stay as a kicker, and it paid off.
He’s just a great all-around player, so we’re extremely proud of his accomplishment.”
Wilbanks didn’t start kicking until eighth grade, but now, he plans to compete for a Division I starting spot.
“When I was a freshman, I didn’t think Division I was an option,”
Wilbanks said. “Once I got to junior year, it felt like I could go Division I. It’s always been a goal of mine, so to make it official is pretty cool. It’s pretty surreal.”
The signing ceremony also included a trio of cheerleaders.
Madison Piel is headed to Southern Miss, while Lane Hite and Paige Cochran picked Southeastern.
Piel, a four-year member of the cheer team and two-time captain, said Southern Miss was a perfect fit.
“It’s a wonderful school, and I love the campus,” Piel said. “The people there are so great. I really wanted to go to school there, so to be able to cheer there is a bonus.
I’m really grateful.”
Hite and Cochran lauded South-
Seven Mandeville athletes signed to play in college on April 24. The signees included, seated from left, Madison Piel (Southern Miss, cheerleading), Paige Cochran (Southeastern, cheerleading); standing from left, Michael White (Coffeyville Community College, football), Lane Hite (Southeastern, cheerleading), Reagan Touchstone (Millsaps, football), Mason Hickman (East Central Community College, baseball) and Creighton Wilbanks (Southern Miss, football).
eastern’s close connections to Mandeville as a plus.
PUBLICNOTICE
“It’s close to home, and Coach Brandon was one of the coaches at Mandeville, so that was a big influence,” Hite said.
PUBLICNOTICE J & E Properties, LLCvs. UlyssesBarrett,III (52)202317056 Sheriff's Civil Divi‐sion Parish of St Tammany State of Louisiana
Sheriff's Civil Divi‐sion Parish of St Tammany State of Louisiana
and to
directed, I, Randy Smith, Sher‐iff, have taken pos‐ session of and will offer for sale at pub‐ lic auction to the highest bidder in the courthouse located at St. Tammany Parish Courthouse, 701 N Columbia St, Covington, LA 70433, beginning at 10:00 am Wednes‐day May 14, 2025, the following prop‐erty:
Property Descrip‐
tion: 2013 Cavalier Buc‐caneer 16x82 Mo‐bile Home CBC044378AL
Storage Location: Micah C. Hathorne 30027 CARTER RD BUSH,LA70431
Municipal Address: 30027 CARTER RD, BUSH, LA 70431 Writ Amount:
TermsofSale:With‐out appraisal, 10% at adjudication and balance within 30 days
RANDY SMITH, SHERIFF $63.02
Address: 70459 1ST ST, COVINGTON, LA 70433 Writ Amount: $142,212.11 Plaintiff Attorney: Law Offices of Her‐schelAdcock,Jr P.O BOX87379 BATON ROUGE LA70879
Terms of Sale: With appraisal, 10% at adjudication and balance within 30 days
Notice is hereby given that by virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 22nd Judicial Dis‐trict Court for the Parish of St Tam‐many in the above entitled and num‐bered cause dated January 29, 2024 and to me directed, I, Randy Smith, Sheriff, have taken possession of and will offer for sale at public auction to the highest bidder in the courthouse located at St. Tammany Parish Courthouse, 701 N Columbia St, Covington, LA 70433, beginning at 10:00 am Wednes‐day, May 14, 2025, the following prop‐erty:
Property Descrip‐ tion: Lot 16, Square 14, Slidell Manor Sub‐division as refer‐enced in the Mort‐gage recorded at in‐strument number 2347236
Municipal Address: 1604 BEECH ST, SLIDELL, LA 70460-8808
Writ Amount: $90,675.31
Plaintiff Attorney: Sidney J. Abdalla Jr 1501GAUSEBL SUITE1 SLIDELL, LA 70458
TermsofSale:With‐out appraisal, 10% at adjudication and balance within 30 days
RANDY SMITH, SHERIFF 138559 $62.63
PUBLICNOTICE
Notice is hereby given that by virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 22nd Judicial Dis‐trict Court for the Parish of St Tam‐many in the above entitled and num‐bered cause dated May16,2024 andto me directed I, Randy Smith Sher‐iff, have taken pos‐ session of and will offer for sale at pub‐ lic auction to the highest bidder in the courthouse located at St. Tammany Parish Courthouse, 701 N Columbia St, Covington, LA 70433, beginning at 10:00 am Wednes‐day, May 14, 2025, the following prop‐erty:
Property Descrip‐ tion: Lot numbers 12, 13, 14and15square20A, Abita Springs Terrace, formerlyPonchitolawa Sub‐division No 4 as referenced in the Mortgage recorded at instrument num‐ber2032968 Municipal Address: 22007 HOFFMAN RD MANDEV‐ILLE,LA70471 Writ Amount: $101,566.89
special.
“Paige and I have been cheering together for as long as I can remember,” Piel said “It’s been so long, so now that we’re going different places, it’s bittersweet. But I’m so proud of her, and I’m so proud of Lane because we’ve all been friends for so long.”
Mandeville offensive lineman
PUBLICNOTICE
SunRealty LLC vs Edward Boyd and The Unopened Suc‐cession of Jeanette HowardBoyd
(52)202316220
PUBLICNOTICE
Summit Funding, Inc.vs. BrennaHansen (52)202415227 Sheriff's Civil Divi‐sion Parish of St Tammany State of Louisiana
Sheriff's Civil Divi‐sion Parish of St Tammany State of Louisiana
Reagan Touchstone signed with Division III Millsaps College. The 6-foot-3, 250-pound lineman was a three-year starter at every position on the offensive line and also played long and short snapper Mandeville defensive back Michael White signed with Coffeyville Community College in Coffeyville, Kansas. The 6-foot, 170-pound athlete was a three-year starter as a returner and defensive back. He set the school record with 10 interceptions this past season and also played some wide receiver this past season.
PUBLICNOTICE
J & E Properties, LLCvs UlyssesBarrett,III
(52)202317056 Sheriff's Civil Divi‐sion Parish of St Tammany State of Louisiana
Notice is hereby given that by virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 22nd Judicial Dis‐trict Court for the Parish of St. Tam‐many in the above entitled and num‐bered cause dated January 29, 2024 and to me directed, I, Randy Smith, Sheriff, have taken possession of and will offer for sale at public auction to the highest bidder in the courthouse located at St Tammany Parish Courthouse, 701 N Columbia St Covington, LA 70433, beginning at 10:00 am Wednes‐day May 14, 2025, the following prop‐erty:
Lakeview Loan Ser‐vicing,LLCvs. RaymondMatos
(52)202412355
Sheriff's Civil Divi‐sion Parish of St Tammany State of Louisiana
Notice is hereby given that by virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 22nd Judicial Dis‐trict Court for the Parish of St. Tam‐many in the above entitled and num‐bered cause dated May16,2024 andto me directed I, Randy Smith Sher‐iff, have taken pos‐ session of and will offer for sale at pub‐ lic auction to the highest bidder in the courthouse located at St Tammany Parish Courthouse, 701 N Columbia St, Covington, LA 70433, beginning at 10:00 am Wednes‐day, May 14, 2025, the following prop‐erty:
Property Descrip‐ tion: Lot numbers 12, 13, 14and15square20A, Abita Springs Terrace, formerlyPonchitolawa Sub‐division No 4 as referenced in the Mortgage recorded at instrument num‐ber2032968 Municipal Address: 22007 HOFFMAN
Plaintiff Attorney: Law Offices of Her‐schelAdcock,Jr P.O BOX87379 BATON ROUGE, LA70879
TermsofSale:With‐out appraisal, 10% at adjudication and balance within 30 days RANDY SMITH, SHERIFF $62.06
PUBLICNOTICE
M&TBankvs Isamar Muhammad and James Muham‐mad (52)202413616
Sheriff's Civil Divi‐sion Parish of St Tammany State of Louisiana
Notice is hereby given that by virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 22nd Judicial Dis‐trict Court for the Parish of St. Tam‐many in the above entitled and num‐bered cause dated July 19, 2024 and to me directed I, Randy Smith, Sher‐iff, have taken pos‐ session of and will offer for sale at pub‐ lic auction to the highest bidder in the courthouse located at St Tammany Parish Courthouse, 701 N Columbia St, Covington, LA 70433, beginning at 10:00 am Wednes‐day, May 14, 2025, the following prop‐erty: Property Descrip‐ tion: Lot 6, Dellwood Subdivision, as ref‐erenced in the Mort‐gage recorded at in‐strument number 2212203
Municipal Address: 3744 BROOK‐WOOD DR, SLIDELL, LA 70458-4713 Writ Amount: $114,955.94
Plaintiff Attorney:
Cochran agreed: “It’s close to home, and they’ll have an all-girl team this year so I’m excited to compete with them.”
Sheriff's Civil Divi‐sion Parish of St Tammany State of Louisiana
Piel said sharing the day with her teammates one last time was
Notice is hereby
Notice is hereby given that by virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 22nd Judicial Dis‐trict Court for the Parish of St Tam‐many in the above entitled and num‐bered cause dated October 1, 2024 and to me directed I, Randy Smith Sher‐iff, have taken
Notice is hereby given that by virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 22nd Judicial Dis‐trict Court for the Parish of St Tam‐many in the above entitled and num‐bered cause dated October 23, 2023 and to me directed I, Randy Smith Sheriff, have taken possession of and will offer for sale at public auction to the highest bidder in the courthouse located at St. Tammany Parish Courthouse, 701 N Columbia St, Covington, LA 70433, beginning at 10:00 am Wednes‐day, May 14, 2025, the following prop‐erty: Property Descrip‐ tion: ACERTAIN PIECE OR PORTION OF GROUND, together with all the build‐ings and improve‐ments thereon, and all the rights ways, privileges, servi‐tudes, advantages and appurtenances
Infielder Mason Hickman signed with East Central Community College in Decatur, Miss. As a junior, he hit 420 and was a first-team AllState selection. This past season, he was the District 6-5A Offensive Player of the Year for the second straight season.
said property is de‐scribed as follows, to-wit:
Plaintiff Attorney: Law Offices of Her‐schelAdcock,Jr P.O BOX87379 BATON ROUGE, LA70879 Terms of Sale: With appraisal, 10% at adjudication and balance within 30 days RANDY SMITH, SHERIFF $60.71-138455
PUBLICNOTICE
Summit Funding, Inc.vs BrennaHansen (52)202415227
Sheriff's Civil Divi‐sion Parish of St Tammany State of Louisiana
RANDY SMITH, SHERIFF 138568AP30-1T $62.15 PUBLICNOTICE M&TBankvs Isamar Muhammad and James Muham‐mad (52)202413616
Notice is hereby given that by virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 22nd Judicial Dis‐trict Court for the Parish of St. Tam‐many in the above entitled and num‐bered cause dated October 1 2024 and to me directed I, Randy Smith Sher‐iff, have taken pos‐ session of and will offer for sale at pub‐ lic auction to the highest bidder in the courthouse located at St Tammany Parish Courthouse, 701 N Columbia St, Covington, LA 70433, beginning at 10:00 am Wednes‐day, May 14, 2025, the following prop‐erty:
Property Descrip‐ tion: Portion of Lot 3 of Square 3 in Pineview Heights Farms as referenced in the Mortgage recorded at Instru‐ment#2023673.
Municipal Address: 65570 MUL‐BERRY ST, MAN‐DEVILLE, LA 70448-8441 Writ Amount: $86,717.27 Plaintiff Attorney: Law Offices of Her‐schelAdcock,Jr P.O BOX87379 BATON ROUGE, LA70879 TermsofSale:With‐out appraisal, 10% at adjudication and balance within 30 days
PUBLICNOTICE
SunRealty LLC vs Edward Boyd and The Unopened Suc‐cession of Jeanette HowardBoyd (52)202316220 Sheriff's Civil Divi‐sion Parish of St Tammany State of Louisiana Notice is hereby given that by virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 22nd Judicial Dis‐trict Court for the Parish of St. Tam‐many in the above entitled and num‐bered cause dated October 23, 2023 and to me directed I, Randy Smith Sheriff, have taken possession of and will offer for sale at public auction to the highest bidder in the courthouse located at St Tammany Parish Courthouse, 701 N Columbia St, Covington, LA 70433, beginning at 10:00 am Wednes‐day, May 14, 2025, the following prop‐erty:
Property Descrip‐ tion: ACERTAIN PIECE OR PORTION OF GROUND, together with all the build‐ings and improve‐ments thereon, and all the rights ways privileges, servi‐tudes, advantages and appurtenancesthereunto belonging or in anywise apper‐ taining, situated in the Parish of St Tammany, State of Louisiana, and ac‐cording to a plat of survey by Albert A. Lovell & Associ‐ates, Inc., Consult‐ing Engineers, dated June 17, 1982, said property is de‐scribed as follows to-wit: 0.331 acre parcel of land being the N.E. 1/4 of Square 56 of the TOWN OF MAILLEVILLE, located in Section
0.331 acre parcel of land being the N.E. 1/4 of Square 56 of the TOWN OF MAILLEVILLE, located in Section 42, Township 7 South, Range 11 East, G.L.D., near the City of Coving‐ton, St Tammany Parish, Louisiana. Said property mea‐sures 120' front on 6th Street, by a depth and front of 120' on Rubey Street, (aka Ruby Street), and forms thecornerof6thand RubyStreets.
Being the same property previouslydescribed as lying in Section 42, Town‐ship 6 South, Range 11 East St Tam‐many Parish Known as "MAILLEVILLE, " more fully de‐scribedastheNE.
Municipal Address: 71349 RUBY ST, COVINGTON, LA 70433-8812
Writ Amount: $48,023.73
Plaintiff Attorney: Title Management Group,Inc. 3421 N. Causeway Blvd. Suite300 Metairie LA70002 TermsofSale:With‐out appraisal 10% at adjudication and balance within 30 days RANDY SMITH, SHERIFF 138563AP30-1T $89.01
Berard and Estate of JolieEddyNichols (52)202313256 Sheriff's Civil Divi‐sion Parish of St Tammany State of Louisiana Notice is hereby given that by virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 22nd Judicial Dis‐trict Court for the Parish of St. Tam‐many in the above entitled and num‐bered cause dated July 10, 2023 and to me directed, I, Randy Smith, Sher‐iff, have taken pos‐ session of and will offer for sale at pub‐ lic auction to the highest bidder in the courthouse located at St Tammany Parish Courthouse, 701 N Columbia St Covington, LA 70433, beginning at 10:00 am Wednes‐day, May 14, 2025, the following prop‐erty: Property Descrip‐ tion: Mandeville Annex Subdivision, Lot No 29-A (formerly Lots 29 & 31), Square 18 as refer‐enced in the Mort‐gage recorded at In‐strument number 1377684.
Municipal Address: 1318 CLOVER ST MANDEVILLE, LA70448-8327 Writ Amount: $43,105.89
Plaintiff Attorney: Jackson & Mcpher‐son 935 GRAVIER STREET SUITE1400 NEW ORLEANS, LA70112
TermsofSale:With‐out appraisal, 10% at adjudication and balance within 30 days RANDY SMITH, SHERIFF 138567AP30-1T $66.00
STAFF PHOTO BY JOSEPH HALM
PROVIDED PHOTO
Pearl River centerfielder Mylie Elsensohn is headed to LSU-Eunice to continue her softball career. A four-year starter Elsensohn hit over