COVINGTON • FOLSOM • LACOMBE • MADISONVILLE • MANDEVILLE • SLIDELL
ST. TAMMANY
N O L A.C O M
|
W e d n e s d ay, S e p t e m b e r 30, 2026
1AN
Investigation into reporting abuse planned Former Lyon Elementary administrators dismissed, probe to expand districtwide ST. TAMMANY PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
BY JIM DERRY
Staff writer
Facing concerned parents and calls for reform, St. Tammany Parish School Board members plan to launch a districtwide investigation into how schools and administrators are complying with rules for reporting child abuse after two Lyon Elementary administrators pleaded guilty for failing to do so. During a seven-hour special
meeting that started at 6 p.m. on Sept. 21 and ended near 1 a.m. on Sept. 22, the board said it will vote next month to hire a thirdparty firm to probe all 55 schools and the district’s central office for “compliance with administrative processes, communications and mandatory reporting.” The school system confirmed
AJ Bailey’s life intertwines with fair
leave and were being paid, but that period ended the week of Sept. 13. The incident has sparked an outcry among some parents concerned about child safety and how schools are prepared to address it. District Attorney Collin Sims said in a statement earlier this month the charges for Faciane and Barth stemmed from violations of Louisiana’s mandatory reporting laws, and in this case the alleged incidents not reported included
last week that Lauryn Faciane, 50, the former principal of Lyon, and Tonya Barth, 55, who previously served as the school’s assistant principal, are no longer employed by the district. Both were arrested in May and later pleaded guilty to charges of failure to report abuse of a child. Each had been on administrative
“sexual conduct that occurred on campus between students 8-9 years old.” Sims said neither a school resource officer nor any law enforcement were notified of any incident. The Sept. 21 meeting at the Schoen Administrative Complex in Covington was originally scheduled to open with an executive session and then a period of public
ä See PROBE, page 2A
TRAILHEAD TRADITION Phunky Monkeys pull big crowd to a Mandeville Live! show
‘Lifetime Board Member’ continues to serve community BY TAMMY NUNEZ Contributing writer
Tucked back in the freshly snipped flowers, canned jams, jellies, and craft booths of the St. Tammany Parish Fair, ä St. Tammany Parish AJ Bailey is usualFair plans sensory-friendly ly found, apron on and in motion. She’s environment. PAGE 3A cleaning out space, helping St. Tammany residents display their wares, and rounding up judges for the baked goods, crops and Afghans. All the activity is crescendoing now, as St. Tammany prepares to open doors on its 115th parish fair on Wednesday, Sept. 30, at the fairgrounds in Covington. Bailey is, in fact, the big fair’s only “Lifetime Board Member,” and she lives the part, too, on 30 acres in Bush. “I go out every day and feed chickens and cows and rabbits and whatever strange animals pass,” she said. Her daily world is St. Tammany Parish, pouring her free time into the land, the people, a knitting group, a local water board, food pantries and the fair — a year-round activity for her. Perhaps most surprising is what dances in her head. Bailey, a prolific world traveler, carries vivid memories of fruits and vegetables in far-flung towns, visions of botanical gardens from all over, and interactions with all the local people she met, and charmed, through her travels. She has trotted through Lido Di Ostia, a Mediterranean coastal fever dream, wandered through the open air stalls of Munich’s Viktualienmarkt — eye-
The Phunky Monkeys move more than a few people to get up and dance.
PHOTOS BY MATTHEW PAYZANT
New Orleans-based saxophonist and vocalist Reginald Smith cuts loose as the Phunky Monkeys entertain the big crowd gathered for the Mandeville Live! concert on Sept. 25. Adrian Bourgeois and baby Denver enjoy the concert.
Nancy Pearson-Wetzel and John Dericks share the evening.
ä See BAILEY, page 3A
Friday Night Live! concerts are great for all kinds of meet ups. See friends from school or work, your team or your neighborhood bar. Meet up with neighbors, make it a date night or go with your family and count on making some memories.
Halloween events sure to spice up St. Tammany outings for a month
‘Top Gun’ Palmer Arnaud accepts a treat from Jane Alphonse at Monster Mash in Bogue Falaya Park during an earlier Halloween season in St. Tammany. It is one of many favorite events returning in October.
BY JESSICA SAGGIO Contributing writer
FILE PHOTO BY GRANT THERKILDSEN
It’s getting a bit spooky out and about in St. Tammany — and no, not just those gas prices. The
SAVE up $ 78 to 2
SAVE $ 02 4
Halloween season is officially here, and with it comes a host of ghosts and cauldrons of fun. It’s when candy becomes currency, giant yard skeletons are the ultimate flex and the community
SAVE
4 02
$
When You Buy 2
PREFERRED
PARTNER
comes together in their freakiest attire or favorite gear for a month full of special events. The calendar is absolutely
ä See EVENTS, page 2A
SAVE up $ 90 to 2 When You Buy 2
LB
— ONLY —
— ONLY —
5
97 VALUE PACK OR 5 LB ROLL $
Ground Fresh Daily by our In Store Butchers!
93% Lean Ground Beef
LB
5 - 11 OZ SELECTED
Taylor Farms Salads
LIMIT 6
— ONLY —
5 Coke, Sprite, $11 97 Hot
2/$
24 PACK SELECTED FAMILY
4 COUNT PACK
Barq’s or Coke Zero
Pockets
— ONLY —
8
2/$
visit rouses.com for more weekly ad specials!
Prices good at all New Orleans, Gretna, Kenner, Metairie, Marrero, Slidell, Mandeville and Covington stores September 30th - October 7th, 2026.
2A ✦ Wednesday, September 30, 2026 ✦ St. Tammany ✦
lll
PROBE
Continued from page 1A comments. But board members reversed the order and allowed 25 speakers to go first. One by one, concerned residents, parents and one student came to the podium to air their worries, largely over the mandatory reporting issue. Kristin Bourg, who had an 8-year-old nonverbal, autistic student at Lyon but pulled him out before this school year, said she is concerned about how the school operates. “My son started Lyon happy, but today he cannot safely return. He has nightmares about school, he regressed significantly, and his behavior tells us something is seriously wrong,” Bourg said. She said she reported the situation to the school and district but was ignored “for months.” Later, she said she was told by the school system to “put him on the bus and see what happens.” Others had similar stories throughout the 80-minute speaking period that included school board representative Gia Baker, who came down from the dais where board members sit and took her turn at the podium. Coming to tears during her allotted three minutes of speaking time, she said there were a number of people to blame for the alleged incident at Lyon. “A paraeducator at (at Lyon) failed these two children. Two teachers failed these children. A guidance counselor failed these children. The assistant principal failed these children.
STAFF PHOTO BY JIM DERRY
The St. Tammany Parish School Board held an emergency meeting Sept. 21 to discuss the fallout from issues of non-reporting at Lyon Elementary School late last school year. Justin Bleker, who was raped at Abney Elementary School in 2007 by a then-janitor at the school, spoke out against the school system as he and his mother, Rebecca Bleker Hickman, have at multiple previous meetings. “The man who raped me was hired by (now-retired associate superintendent) Pete Jabbia, and Pete Jabbia was over HR and ignored PHOTOS COURTESY ST. TAMMANY PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE the background check,” Bleker said. “His own system, Former Lyon Elementary School principal Lauryn Faciane, this system failed.” left, and assistant principal Tonya Barth pleaded guilty to Later, when they went befailure to report abuse of a child. hind closed doors to discuss what actions they may take, The principal failed these appears to me from the bot- board members spent more children. The (school re- tom up everyone shifted than five hours debating source officer) failed these their burden to report to the what to do next. “We have asked the suchildren,” Baker said. “It next person.”
perintendent (Frank Jabbia) a lot of very necessary questions, hard questions,” Board President Amanda Reed Martin said. Jabbia “And we have decided to initiate an investigation done by an independent firm that has expertise in education to evaluate every single school site, including central office.” One board member, Michelle Hirstius, said that wasn’t enough, and raised the prospect of putting Jabbia on paid leave during a probe. Jabbia did not speak
at the meeting, and a day later, the school system’s communications director, Meredith Mendez, said the superintendent had no comment. Board member Adaline Rutherford, who represents the district that Lyon sits in, said new administrators at the school, Principal Ben Strohl and Assistant Principal Kaci Puglia, are doing “an amazing job.” “They are working hard to make sure our school is going to be strong again,” she said. “They are doing their best. I see it. I am there almost every day.” Jim Derry covers St. Tammany Parish and can
Final days to register to vote in Nov. 3 election approach NEWS ROUNDUP
Staff report The last day to register to vote in-person for the Nov. 3 U.S. Senate general/open election and U.S. Representative primary/open primary is Monday, Oct. 5., according to the St. Tammany Registrar of Voters Office. Anyone interested in registering to vote in person will need identification with a parish address. Office hours on that day will be 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Note that the
Slidell office will be closed for lunch from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. daily. If registering to vote online through Geaux Vote Online Registration, the last day is Tuesday, Oct. 13. The Covington office is located at 601 N. Jefferson Ave., and the Slidell Office is located at 520 Old Spanish Trail, Suite 2F. In addition, all mail registration applications must be received or post marked by Oct. 5.
EVENTS
Continued from page 1A seething with frightful festivities for those who like being scared, with others designed for folks who absolutely do not. Those will delight the pumpkin lovers, trick or treaters and younger spirits who much prefer a sparkly princess, a goodnatured pirate or a caped superhero. So mark those calendars, because here are this season’s can’t-miss celebrations with something for everyone.
Olde Towne Pumpkin Festival, Oct. 3 It’s not the official start of Halloween, but for those in east St. Tammany, it might as well be. The Olde Towne Pumpkin Festival is back for another year of family fun sprinkled with a dose of autumn whimsy — and all for a good cause. This free event is not a scary one and is geared toward those under age 12. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the festival will take place on the grounds of the First United Methodist Church in Slidell. This old-fashioned fall celebration will feature live entertainment, food, a youth entrepreneur market, face painting, inflatables, “pumpkin chunkin,” games, robotics demos and pony rides. The various entertainment stations do require tickets, which can be purchased on-site. This is a cashless event, and proceeds benefit the Rainbow Childcare Center of East St. Tammany and United Way. For more, visit rainbowccc. org/olde-towne-pumpkin-festival.
Monster Mash, Oct. 17 Back for its 38th year, the Monster Mash returns to Bogue Falaya Park in Covington from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for another fun and safe Halloween experience. This kid-centric event features a trickor-treat village, cookie-decorating booth,
THE ST. TAMMANY ADVOCATE 321 N. New Hampshire Street Covington, LA 70433 PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY
Online at theneworleansadvocate.com/ community/sttammany
Career and College expos set in Mandeville and Slidell The St. Tammany Parish Public school system will host its Career and College Expo at the Castine Center in Pelican Park near Mandeville on Oct. 12 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and the Harbor Center near Slidell on Oct. 19 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. “The Career and College Expo is an important opportunity for our students and families across St. Tammany Parish to explore
carnival rides, crafts, music and activities. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Advance tickets are $15 for children or $20 at the gate. Adult entry is $5. There is also a VIP experience for $40. Proceeds from the Monster Mash benefit the St. Tammany Health System Parenting Center.
the many pathways available after graduation,” Superintendent Frank Jabbia said. “By connecting students directly with colleges, universities, military branches and industry partners, the Expo helps them plan for their future. We are excited to once again bring together so many partners dedicated to supporting student success.” Students can meet with representatives from all these group and learn more about opportunities available after high school.
Whisperings: A Living Heritage Experience Oct. 25
History will come to life as the Covington Heritage Foundation recreates scenes from days gone by at the Covington Cemetery No. 1 on N. Columbia Street. From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., this spooky, yet educational, experience is a tour Olde Towne Zombie Crawl, Oct. 23 through the cemetery where actors based on real historical figures recount Somebody wake up Rick Grimes, because the walking dead is coming to Slidell. the stories that shaped the foundation of the community. These true stories of Well, perhaps not literally, but it will cercourage, sacrifice and triumph aim to tainly be crawling with “zombies” come leave guests with a new appreciation of Oct. 23. From 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. the streets of Olde Towne Slidell will transform into a the area’s rich culture and traditions. Tickets are $20 and often sell out. Buy giant Halloween-themed block party filled with live music, trick-or-treating, costume them online at covingtonheritagefoundacontests, bounce houses, face painting, tion.com. pumpkin decorating and local art vendors. Spirits in the Park Halloween Festival, Sponsored by the Olde Towne Merchants Association, this free party is suitable for Oct. 30 – Nov. 1 all ages and is a “grassroots celebration dedicated to bringing energy, community, Kicking off for the first time, Spirits in and commerce back to the heart of Olde the Park is a new Halloween weekend fesTowne.” tival that will take place at the Great Lawn inside Coquille Park in Covington. The Nightmare on Columbia, Oct. 24 event features live music, food, vendors and a kid’s zone with face painting, inflataDouble double toil and trouble, fire burn and Champagne bubble at this Covington bles, a STEM robotics showcase and trick street party. Geared toward those age 21 or treating. Live performances include and up, the Nightmare on Columbia stroll The Class of ’98 Band and Kings of Neon offers an evening of cocktails, mocktails on Oct. 30, Beaucoup Boogie, The Boogieand craft beers, costume contests, food men, and The Bucktown Allstars on Oct. 31 trucks and live entertainment from DJ and Paper Chase on Nov. 1. Sketch and The Geaux Geauxs. The stroll The free festival runs from 6 p.m. to takes place from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 11 p.m. Oct. 30, noon to 11:30 p.m. on Halwith check-in beginning at the Covington loween and noon to 10 p.m. Nov. 1. AdjaTrailhead on N. New Hampshire Street. An cent to the event is the Sawmill Haunted after-party takes place at the Trailhead at House, which is based on the “dark folk7:30 p.m. with a costume contest to follow lore and supernatural legends of the north at 8 p.m. Tickets are $45 and includes sam- shore.” Tickets for the haunted house can be purchased online at thesaw.net. Ticket plings of the evening’s spirits — the kind you drink, that is. Proceeds from the event prices start at $25. The Sawmill Haunted House will be open on weekends throughbenefit the Three Rivers Art Festival. Tickets can be purchased at nightmareonout October and during the festival. Exact times and dates can be found online. columbia.org.
EDITOR
Andrew Canulette editor@ sttammanyfarmer. net
SUBMISSIONS
Send your news, photos or letters to the editor by Monday at 5 p.m. to be published 9 days later, as space is available. Original photos will run as space is available and must be high-resolution JPEG attachments, 1MB or larger. First and last names must be included, from left to right. EMAIL: editor@sttammanyfarmer.net MAIL: use address at left ONLINE: www.sttammanyfarmer.net
ADVERTISING
DISPLAY ADS: 504-636-7425 CLASSIFIED ADS: 504-636-7421 M–F, 8 A.M.–5 P.M.
Students may preregister at www. stpsb.org/expo to receive a Strive barcode at the expo. The barcode allows students to easily share their information with participating organizations, keep track of the representatives they meet, and receive additional information about opportunities that interest them. Preregistration is optional but will save time at the event and help students stay organized. More information is available at www.stpsb.org/expo.
ACCESS Boo Fest, Oct. 31 Boo Fest is an annual event designed to create a magical Halloween experience for children of all abilities. The trick-ortreating event takes place on the grounds of the Lakeview Hospital in Covington. It features rows of decorated Halloween houses crafted by area businesses and family sponsors ready to hand out candy along a paved and accessible path. The festival will also have games, arts and crafts, face painting, a photo booth, costume contest and entertainment by the Mandeville Milkshakers and Be Hooper Be Happy. Gates open at 9 a.m. for special needs families and 10 a.m. for the general public. The event runs until 3 p.m. Entry is $3 Looking for a trunk or treat? Here are the big ones: 1. Fontainebleau State Park Trick or Treating: Mandeville, Oct. 14 and 31, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., $3 per person fee. Those under age 3 or over age 62 are free. 2. St. Timothy on the North Shore: Oct. 24, Mandeville, Fall Fest and Trunk or Treat., 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Non-scary costumes requested. Free 3. Town of Pearl River Trunk or Treat: Oct. 24, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Pearl River and Honey Island Swamp Museum. Free. 4. Aldersgate United Methodist Church Trunk or Treat: Slidell, Oct. 24, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Free. 5. Downtown Covington: Final Friday Block Party Trunk or Treat, Oct. 30, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., North New Hampshire Street, Covington. Free. 6. Abita Springs: Oct. 31, Autumn in the Park from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., Trailhead Park, trunk or treating at the Abita Springs Town Hall Parking at 6 p.m. Free. 7. Lacombe Recreation District 4: Boo on the Bayou, Oct. 31, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., John Davis Park, Lacombe. Trick or treating, inflatables, music and activities. Free.
BUY A SUBSCRIPTION
CALL: 504-529-0522 ONLINE: theadvocate. com/subscriptions
QUESTIONS ABOUT DELIVERY? CALL: 504-262-5998 EMAIL: notmc@ theadvocate.com
✦ St. Tammany ✦ Wednesday, September 30, 2026 ✦ 3A
lll
Finding a bit of quiet at the St. Tammany Parish Fair BY KADEE KRIEGER Contributing writer
As a past St. Tammany Parish Fair princess and regular fair attendee, 14-year-old Mila Aduli knows the fun the fair provides for area families. But as the sister of two special needs siblings, she also knows the challenges that the fair presents for families with special needs children. Aduli and her family’s nonprofit organization, Mina’s Mission, collaborated with the St. Tammany Fair Association to help make this year’s fair more inclusive. Through Mina’s Mission, named for Mila’s younger sister, who passed away in 2022 at just 9 years of age, the fair will include a sensory room tucked away from the loud music, bright colors, flashing lights and other exciting aspects of the fair. The room features dimmed lighting, air conditioning, plush sofas and soft music to help create a calming space for those who need to step away from the action and wind down before proceeding with time at fair, Aduli said. She said the sensory room will be close to the Petting Zoo so that children who respond well to animals can take advantage of that space
PROVIDED PHOTO
Mila Adulli, 14, sits with her younger brother, Ari, who has autism. Through her family’s nonprofit organization, Mina’s Mission, she worked to bring a sensory room to the St. Tammany Parish Fair so people like Ari can have a quiet, wind-down space to help them enjoy their visit. either before or after spending time in the room. Aduli said watching Mina and her 10-year-old brother, Ari, who has autism, miss out on enjoying simple things, such as the fair, has made her passionate about being involved in Mina’s Mission. Children with autism need quiet spaces to manage sensory overload, reduce anxiety and reset their nervous system lest they experience
extreme stress or meltdown. Since second grade, she has been involved in the family nonprofit started by her parents, Cherie KellyAduli and Farhad Aduli, before her sister’s death. One of her first major contributions included raising money to inspire Walmart to place shopping carts that would accommodate special needs children in stores throughout the nation. Now, the Christ Episco-
BAILEY
AJ Bailey is a lifetime member of the St. Tammany Parish Fair Association, the group that stages the fair, which has taken place annually in Covington since 1910.
Continued from page 1A ing a Bavarian version of the booths she staffs at the St. Tammany Parish Fair. She’s giggled and marveled over Brussels’ Manneken Pis — a tiny bronze statue in Belgium of a little boy in various outfits peeing. The young marvel is known for his elaborate array of outfits. He has more than 1,000 looks. Her late husband, Jim, was a pilot for the now defunct Continental Airlines — affording the couple the ability to fly for free to destinations around the world. “We’re just adventurers,” she said. “Civita di Bagnoregio in Italy is a ‘dying city’ (located on a big volcanic tuff rock) and the garden of my dreams is there,” she added. The adventures were put on hold when Jim died suddenly a little over a year ago. Good friend Melinda Mizell said it took Bailey a few months to grieve — and though she still has trying days — her attention and focus is back on the people around her. The community she’s long nurtured has loved her back. “She’s always such a strong person, wanting to help people, but she did accept our support,” Mizell said. “She still has days that are kind of rough. But she’s getting stronger.” And she’s back, full force at the fair, something she’s been a part of since 2000. Bailey delights in the details — and loves to see the bespoke twists on common
pal School freshman has started her own companion nonprofit to Mina’s Mission called Kindness Corner and is working with Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser to bring more sensory rooms to events throughout the state. “I want to make the world more inclusive for people like Mina and Ari,” she said. She said the St. Tammany Parish Fair is a great place to start. “My favorite thing about the fair is eating candy apples, petting the animals, winning prizes at the booths and just spending time with family. It is a wonderful community event where you see so many people you know while meeting new people,” she said. “My whole life I’ve seen the struggle my siblings go through. It opened my eyes to the fact that they should have more opportunities, like going on the swings at the playground or attending the fair.” She said she used her brother, Ari, as the inspiration for the Fair’s sensory room and equipped the space based on his severe needs. “We asked ourselves, ‘What would we need to be able to bring him here,’ knowing that because of his severity of autism that (space designed for him) would cover most kids.”
PROVIDED PHOTO fair goods. “I love the more interesting combinations like peach habanero jelly and kumquat marmalade, things that are readily available in the parish that are fresh, that can be made into jams and jellies,” she said. “Those are the things that I look forward to seeing. ... We all make strawberry jelly, but we all don’t get to see elderberry or peach habanero. So, we look for the unique creations.” Will Afton, the county agent for the LSU AgCenter, says that Bailey’s love of agriculture and the people who contribute to it sets her apart. “She’s got a very bubbly personality,” said Afton, who met her 13 years ago. “She had been helping out with the fair for a long time. She is always sharing information with people and making sure everyone has what they need.” In addition to all the master gardening programs Bailey has been a part of and all the volunteer work she does re-
lated to plants, she received a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture at LSU in the 1970s. Bailey, who grew up in New Orleans, riding horses on the levee, at first dreamed of being a veterinarian. But she switched within the College of Agriculture — and said she even knows how to fix a tractor after taking an engineering class in the college. All the knowledge would be nothing without the heart she pours into the event, fair Vice President Melissa Dottolo said. “She’s someone who has committed years of service to the fair and (has the) heart and exemplifies what the fair association is trying to do for the community,” Dottolo said. For all the places she’s visited, Mizell said the fair is home to her. “She’s a fantastic community person,” Mizell said. “She’s one-of-a-kind. She’s there if you need anything. All you have to say is, ‘Hey AJ,’ and she’s there.”
She enlisted the help of St. Scholastica Academy’s Dove Cares Club and Christ Episcopal School’s Beta Club to create wall decorations to bring to life an Under the Sea theme. The wheelchairaccessible room will also feature dark blue accent lights, glowing jellyfish, sensory bins, 3D-printed fidget toys, water and snacks. “It will be a great place to chill out,” she said. “Even for the moms of those with special needs. Their job is never-ending, and they deserve a break, too.” St. Tammany Parish Fair Association Vice President Melissa Dottolo said she was delighted when Aduli first approached the association about the sensory room. “We
were so impressed that she came to us, and of course, it is something that we were happy to incorporate into the fair,” she said. Aduli said the association immediately found a space for the room, which will be under the grandstands of the horse show. “They have been the best team to work with, and I’m so happy they were willing to bring this dream to life.” The St. Tammany Parish Fair will be held Sept. 30 to Oct. 4 at the fairgrounds in Covington, 1304 N. Columbia St. For a full schedule of events including exhibits, livestock shows, midway rides, rodeo and entertainment, visit sttammanyparishfair.info.
3 PUBLIC AUCTIONS Live & Online Bidding
THURSDAY | OCT 8TH | STARTS AT 10AM City of Bogalusa & Bogalusa Police Dept. 214 Arkansas Ave | Bogalusa, LA
Preview: Wed 10/7 from 9A-3P | Cars, Trucks, Dump Trucks, Fire Truck, Transit Buses, Motor Grader, Lawncare Equipment, Electronics & More!
THURSDAY | OCT 15TH | STARTS AT 10AM
St. Bernard Parish Government 120 W. Agriculture St. | Chalmette, LA Preview: Wed 10/14 from 9A-3P | Trucks, Vac Trucks, Fire Truck, Trailers, Dump Truck, Excavator Buckets, Generators, Lawncare Equipment, Animal Medical Equipment & More!
THURSDAY | OCT 22ND | STARTS AT 9AM
City of Slidell & Covington, STP Sheriff, STP Hospital, STP Coroner, STP School Board, Town of Madisonville, US Bankruptcy Assets & Others 101 Magnolia St. | Slidell, LA
Preview: Wed 10/21 from 9A-3P | Cars, Trucks, SUV’s, Dump Trucks, Fuel Truck, Wrecker, Van, Box Truck, Trailers, Backhoes, School Buses, Golf Carts, Tractor & Bobcat Attachments, Woodchippers, Tractor, Welding Machines, Tools, Comm. Kitchen Equipment, Electronics, Various Jewelry & Much More! Buyer’s Premium: 10% onsite & 16% online. $25 notary fee applies. Visit slidellauction.com for more details, terms & conditions. For online bidding visit: https://www.proxibid.com/servcorp
Government surplus assets will not be sold for a price less than allowed by law. The sellers & auctioneer reserve the right to reject any & all bids & remove any property from auction. Some items will be subject to reserve. All items are sold “AS IS” without warranty & with all faults/defects. ServCorp Int’l, Inc. • 101 Magnolia St. • Slidell, LA 70460 (800) 340-2185 • slidellauction.com • Bradley Mutz, LA-1467
PUBLIC NOTICE
The full text of the Acts from the 2026 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature may be viewed on the website of the Official Journal of the State at www.theadvocate.com. Prepared by Secretary of State Nancy Landry pursuant to Act 802 of the 2010 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature.
4A ✦ Wednesday, September 30, 2026 ✦ St. Tammany ✦
lll
H H
H H
H H
H H
ELECTION
H H
H H
H H
H H
Meet the candidates for St. Tammany Parish School Board, Part 2 BY JIM DERRY Staff writer
Editor’s note: This is a continuation of a story that began in the Sept. 23 edition of the St. Tammany Farmer, which included profiles of St. Tammany Parish School Board candidates in District 1, 7, 11 and 12. In this edition, we focus on candidates from districts 5, 6 and 9. A total of seven of the School Board’s 15 seats are on the Nov. 3 ballot. Winners of these elections, along with the eight candidates who were elected without opposition, will serve a unique five-year term beginning in January 2027, instead of the normal four years The current board recently voted for a one-time change in the length of the upcoming term so they can get in line with other larger elections across the state and parish. That includes 2031, when a governor’s race is scheduled to be held along with another election for St. Tammany Parish president. Of the 15 seats, a minimum of five will be held by new members, and it could be as many as nine, as four of the seven races involve incumbents.
MIRANDA BURAS
PERSONAL: 39. Born in Dallas; lives in Abita Springs. EDUCATION: Graduated from high school in Dallas and earned a bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy at LoyolaNew Orleans with a minor in psychology. Earned teacher’s certificate from Southeastern Louisiana. PROFESSIONAL: Spent 10 years working with specialneeds children in St. Tammany Parish. Long-time substitute teacher for 11 schools locally. Spent 13 years as an itinerant teacher in 12 different schools and is an education coordinator for the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. DISTRICT 5 The district includes Abita POLITICAL: Democrat
Springs, Sun and other areas in the northern part of the parish. Miranda Buras Buras, 39, is a board-certified music therapist with a degree from the University of Loyola-New Orleans, who has spent much of the past decade and a half as an itinerant teacher for 12 schools in St. Tammany. She now serves as an education coordinator for the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. She says that during her nearly 15 years in the local school system, she “witnessed significant strain on teachers and students” — with a wear and tear on them emotionally without enough support from administration and the board. Buras, a Democrat, said she left the school system and seeks to drive change from the outside and “fresh from the trenches.” “It is hard to be a teacher — the struggles with the arts programs, the gifted programs and with discipline,” Buras said. “One of the classrooms I taught in this past year had mold in
it, and I was told there was no mold even though it was clearly visible.” She stresses younger children are spending too much time using screens, and there’s a need for more hands-on learning. “Why do kindergarteners need to use a computer?” she asks. Buras also thinks there should be more time for lunch, and teachers should have more autonomy, “rather than having to follow a script.” (I) C. Brandon Harrell Note: Harrell did not respond to several requests to be interviewed for this story. Harrell, 45, is a Republican running for a third term — a seat that either he or his father, Charles Harrell, has held for the past 36 years. Both in 2018 and 2022, Harrell defeated former teacher and current assistant for the St. Tammany Federation of Teachers, Lee Barrios. Tammy Harwell Penton Harwell Penton, 58, is a retired disabled Air Force veteran with multiple degrees, including a Masters
Slidell City Council sends 2% hotel tax to voters in April 2027 special election BY JIM DERRY Staff writer
The Slidell City Council passed a 2% hotel-occupancy tax for a period of 20 years, pending a vote of residents of the city during a special election to be held next spring. Resolution R26-28 says the tax will be used for the purpose of “construction, operation and maintenance of recreational facilities in the city or other tourismrelated initiatives.” Former city councilman Kenny Tamborella was one of the leaders for the change of the tax and said before the 8-0 vote of approval at the Sept. 22 meeting “this was about three years’ worth of work.” He added that Slidell is one of only three municipalities in Louisiana that does not have the authority to legislate its own hotel/motel tax — with Opelousas and Natchitoches being the others. “Why did this take three years? A lot had to be changed legislatively,” Tamborella said. “We tried to get this passed over a year ago, but (Gov. Jeff Landry) would not sign local bills that year. So, I went up to the Capitol and
provided some testimony in Senate committee hearings. And believe it or not, even some of the senators in that hearing didn’t realize…we didn’t have the ability to do our own hotel tax.” A special election is now set for April 17 of next year, and the tax proposal is the only measure currently scheduled to be on the ballot. The council also passed an ordinance to allow garage and estate sales up to four times per year, subject to the resident being granted a no-cost permit. The item had been postponed from the Aug. 11 meeting to add time for discussion among the council. In the end, they upped the original ordinance from three garage or estate sales per year to four. Mayor Randy Fandal said the no-cost permit was kept “to keep professional garage sales from opening up in neighborhoods and selling all year.” Jim Derry covers St. Tammany Parish, and has been part of The TimesPicayune staff for much of the past 36 years. Jim can be reached via email at jderry@theadvocate.com.
C. BRANDON HARRELL
TAMMY HARWELL PENTON
AMANDA REED MARTIN
NOTE: Harrell did not respond to requests to be interviewed. PERSONAL: 45. Lives in Abita Springs. POLITICAL: Republican. Currently serving second term on St. Tammany Parish School Board, having been elected in 2018 and 2022.
PERSONAL: 58. Born in New Orleans and grew up in Bush; lives in Covington. EDUCATION: Multiple bachelor’s and associate degrees, along with a master’s in Curriculum and Administration from Southeastern Louisiana University. PROFESSIONAL: Retired disabled veteran, who works part-time as a substitute teacher. She previously taught 15 years IN Arizona, Idaho, New Mexico, and locally in Bogalusa and St. Tammany Parish. POLITICAL: Republican
PERSONAL: 46. Born in New Orleans, but has lived most of her life in Mandeville. EDUCATION: Graduated from Mandeville High in 1998. Earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Microbiology at LSU. PROFESSIONAL: A former stockbroker, she now is a stay-at-home mom with four children at home and another in college. Reed Martin is an incumbent who currently serves as the school board president. POLITICAL: Republican. Elected to School Board in 2022.
an area just east of Causeway Blvd. and south of I-12. Amanda Reed Martin Reed Martin, 46, is a stayat-home mom of five children ranging in age from fourth grade to college. She is a former stockbroker and she earned a Masters in Microbiology from LSU. She’s nearing the end of her first term on the School Board, currently serving as its president. Reed Martin the “frustrations we are up against with state mandates” from the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education are the greatest struggles of her nearly four years on the School Board. “While we’re up against things we cannot control, we have worked well with legislators and our northshore delegation” in state government, Reed Martin said. When 10 new faces were elected to the 15-person School Board in 2022, she said it took quite some time to develop a trust between DISTRICT 6 the board and administraThe coverage area in- tion — and it’s still a work in cludes Old Mandeville and progress, she said.
Reed Martin, a Republican, said the issues throughout the upcoming five-year term will be some of the toughest the School Board will face in quite some time. She said additional scrutiny from the public means board members and administrators all have to do a better job of working together. “Things have to get better. I will always fight for the kids in this parish, because I have four kids who will be in this school system for the next nine years,” she said. “I was a student in this school system, and so was my husband. My oldest started in the school system and graduated from (Mandeville High). I have seen all the wonderful things this school system has done.” Erin Oramous Oramous, 67, spent 30 years in the school system’s central office as its health insurance coordinator and later headed employees’ retirement plans. “If someone needed to know something about insurance, they’d say, ‘Call Erin.’ ” Oramous has worked as an assistant in the
in Curriculum and Administration from Southeastern Louisiana. She previously taught for 15 years across five states and locally in St. Tammany Parish and in Bogalusa and spent time in Arizona as a full-time police officer. Harwell Penton, a Republican, says she has numerous reasons for running, and among her top priorities are “ensuring school safety” for students and teachers. She wants the school system to implement a “back-to-basics” approach with more hands-on learning and textbooks over screens. She wants to reinstitute practices such as cursive handwriting and math-fact memorization. She also says teachers need more support, she wants greater transparency from top administrators and the school board to classroom teachers across the parish. “I felt like I could no longer just talk about the challenges I was seeing; I wanted to address them,” Harwell Penton said. “I was encouraged by many people to run, and I believe our school system is worth fighting for. Our school system used to be first, second or third in the state. There has been a horrific drop, particularly since 2020.”
ERIN ORAMOUS PERSONAL: 67. Born Covington; lives in Mandeville. EDUCATION: Graduated from Covington High. Studied at Southeastern Louisiana University. PROFESSIONAL: Retired eight years ago following 30-plus year career at Central Office of St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, where she worked as the health insurance coordinator and later was in charge of employee retirement plans. Has worked in front office of Archbishop Hannan High School since retirement from the public school district. POLITICAL: Republican office at Archbishop Hannan High School since retiring eight years ago. Oramous has spent nearly all of her life in Covington and was born at St. Tammany Hospital. She contemplated running for school board upon retirement, but said this time is the right time because “prayer led me to go for it.” A Republican, Oramous said one of her main goals is to lessen workloads for teachers. She insists the St. Tammany Parish School Board must work with the state to “cut down on the red tape” and streamline mandates. “I didn’t treat anyone differently — any teacher, employee, custodian or principal —and they could come to me with their problems when I was there, and I would help them get their issues resolved,” Oramous said. “Sometimes it might not be the answer they wanted, but I was kind enough to explain why it couldn’t happen that way. And they were OK when they left.”
ä See BOARD, page 6A
✦ St. Tammany ✦ Wednesday, September 30, 2026 ✦ 5A
lll
2026 St. Tammany Parish Fair Schedule
985-892-8421- 1304 N Columbia St. Drive in entrance West Magee Street
Wednesday, September 30 7:30 am – 9:30 am – Cut Flowers Exhibits Accepted 7:30 am – 1:30 pm – Crop Exhibits Accepted 8:00 am - till Commercial Vendors Set Up 9:00 am – Judging of Jr and Adult Home Economics Exhibit, 4H Booths and Educational Exhibits 10:30 am – Judging of Floral Exhibits Begin 2:00 pm – Crop Exhibits Judging Begins 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm – Poultry and Rabbit Exhibits Accepted 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm Midway Rides $1 each Ride 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm – Mini Farm Open (Lee Road Jr./Boyet Jr FFA) 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm – Weigh Animals and turn in Livestock forms
JOIN THE PARADE! FRIDAY 10 AM
Thursday, October 1 8:00 am - 9:00 am - Commercial Vendors Set Up 9:00 am - 2:00 pm - KIDS Day 9:00 am – 12:00 pm – Mini Farm Open (Pearl River High FFA) 9:30 am - 1:30 pm JoJo the MagiClown, Main Stage area 10:00 am – 8:00 pm – Exhibits Open for Viewing 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm - Mini Farm Open (Fontainebleau High/ Lakeshore High FFA) 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm - Mini Farm Open (Monteleone/Fontainebleau Jr High FFA) 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Midway Rides Open $27 Pay One Price 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Gospel Night, Stage Friday, October 2 Entrance Fee $5 Adults, $3 for children under 12 after 1:00pm 9:00 am – Parade Line Up, Jefferson Ave 10:00 am – Parade Begins on Jefferson Ave 10:00 am – 9:00 pm – Exhibits Open for Viewing 10:00 am – 3:00 pm – Midway Rides Open $27 Pay One Price 11:00 am – 12:00 pm - Opening Ceremony, Stage 12:00 pm - 12:15 pm - JFK Martial Arts Demo Team 1:00 pm - Entrance Fee at Gates $5 Adults, $3 children under 12 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Mini Farm Open (Fifth Ward/Creekside Jr High FFA) 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Cheer & Dance Team Competition, Stage 2:00 pm - Action Youth and Community Resources, Stage 2:45 pm - 3:45 pm Harvest Gold Band, Stage 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm – Midway Rides $32 Pay One Price 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm JAEE Band, Stage 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm - Mini Farm Open (Northshore High School FFA) 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm Hwy 190 Band, Main Stage 7:00 pm– Rodeo Queen Crowning - Rodeo Arena 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm–Twisted H Ranch Rodeo, Rodeo Arena $15 Adults $10 Children 12 years and under 11:00 pm - 12:00 am - Midway Rides Individual Ride Tickets $1.00 each; Rides take 3 - 7 tickets
Parade Line Up:
9 am on Jefferson Ave. Parade Entries
e-mail: stpfparade@gmail.com Pageants Commercial booths Parade Entries Floral Division Home Economics Poultry & Rabbits Crops 4H and Jr. Home Ec Livestock St. Tammany Fair Office website
Melissa: 985-249-1079 • melissapdottolo@yahoo.com Dennis: 985-796-3165 Keitisha: 985-201-4748 Arleen: 504-578-6582 AJ: 985-892-8421 Tommy: 985-264-2820 William Alton: County Agent • 985-875-2635 Aimee: 985-875-2635 st.tammanyparishfair@yahoo.com 985-892-8421 stpf.squarespace.com
Saturday, October 3 Entrance Fee $5 Adults, $3 for children under 12 9:00 am - 10:00 pm 8:00 am – Dairy Cattle Show 9:00 am - Beef Cattle Show, Old Barn 9:00 am – 9:00 pm – Exhibits Open for Viewing 10:00 am – 11:00 pm - Midway Rides $32 Pay One Price 10:00 am - 1:00 pm - JoJo the Magician, Main Stage 12:00 pm – Swine, Sheep & Goat Show (Swine Barn) 1:00 pm - 3:45 pm - BIRD Band, Main Stage 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm - Gracie Marie Band, Main Stage 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm - Mini Farm Open (Slidell/Folsom Jr. High FFA) 7:30 pm to 10:00 p.m. – Twisted H Ranch Rodeo, Rodeo Arena $15 Adults $10 Children 12 years and under 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Nola Groove Band, Stage 11:00 pm - 12:00 am - Midway Rides Individual Ride Tickets $1.00 each; Rides take 3 - 7 tickets Sunday, October 4 12:00 am – 10:00 am – Livestock Released 8:00 am – 9:00 am – Poultry & Rabbit Release 9:00 am - 12:00 pm - Mini Farm dismantled (Lee Road/Boyet Jr High FFA) 11:00 am – 6:00 pm - Midway Rides $32 Pay One Price 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm. - Education Booths dismantled
THANK YOU
TO OUR FAIR SPONSORS
Guidelines Policy Clear tote bags/clear backpacks. No pets allowed. No knives or weapons of any kind. **for a full list of prohibited or allowed items, please go to our Website **
AND OUR RODEO SPONSORS
6A ✦ Wednesday, September 30, 2026 ✦ St. Tammany ✦
Jeanell Landwehr, ‘the jury lady,’ is Safe Harbor Superhero
BY JOLIE LINDLEY Contributing writer
Safe Harbor Northshore’s newest superhero, Jeanell Landwehr, said she didn’t think she had a chance to win the designation at the organization’s recent gala and was focused only on only helping to raise funds to support Safe Harbor’s work. “I really and truly thought I’d do what I could to raise money, but I thought I didn’t stand a chance to win. It was such an honor when they announced me as the winner, and I was so excited,” she said. For 14 years, the Real Superheroes of Safe Harbor Gala has nominated exemplary community members who then compete with each other to raise funds for the organization that has been dedicated to ending domestic violence in St. Tammany Parish since 1991.
lll
The one who raises the most wins the title. “There were eight of us nominated this year. I’m not sure who nominated me, but there were so many incredible people among the nominees,” Landwehr said. Landwehr has been a fixture in the community for 64 years, first spending 36 years working for The St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court’s Office, then after a one-year hiatus, working the last 27 years as the jury coordinator for the 22nd Judicial District Court. The parish proclaimed June 26 of this year as the first-ever Jeanell Landwehr Appreciation Day to recognize her commitment to her work. “I never plan to retire. I love what I do, and I get to meet incredible people every Monday morning. Hopefully by the time they leave at the end of the week, I’m their new best friend,” she said.
Landwehr said her association with Safe Harbor came through her friendships with several of the organization’s board members. “I know what an incredible organization they are. Through my many years working in the court system, I see cases involving domestic violence come up, and I can see first-hand how incredible the work is that Safe Harbor does. I know how much our judges appreciate the work they do. For some of our judges, it’s probably their favorite charity,” Landwehr said. Superhero nominees encouraged community members to pay $1 per vote for them to win the title, with all the funds going to support Safe Harbor’s efforts to support women and children impacted by domestic violence. Landwehr said she had no idea how much she raised in total but having a lot of people knowing her in the community
helped her win. She sees her role as jury coordinator as someone who helps put people at ease with the process. “I get to see between 125-150 people every Monday morning, and some of those people are anxious or frightened, and some are angry. My job is to let them know we couldn’t do it without them. I remind them that they are so important to the success of the judicial system,” Landwehr said. “At the event the other night, the emcee introduced each of us, and when he got to me, he said he had been on jury duty, and he enjoyed meeting me then and that I was funny. When he said that, I got a lot of applause because people in the room started saying, ‘Oh, it’s the jury lady!’ ” Landwehr said she may have been chosen as the night’s superhero, but the honor should go to ev-
PROVIDED PHOTO
Jeanell Landwehr was named the Real Superhero of Safe Harbor at the agency’s recent gala.
eryone working with Safe Harbor throughout the year. She said, “I appreciate everyone who voted for me and made the night so special, but the real superhero here is Safe Harbor — the board members, the staff, and all the volunteers who give hours of time. They work hard at it and are so good at it.”
New name, same mission for Habitat for Humanity group BY SUZIE HUNT
Contributing writer Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West celebrated its 45th anniversary last month with cake, a secondline, the proclamation of big changes for the organization and even a new name. The affiliate’s leadership announced its service area now includes all of Wash- Gage ington Parish, and as a result, the expanded nonprofit has adopted the new name of Habitat for Humanity Northshore West to embrace its new geography. The consolidation of the two chapters has been in the works for about a year, said Terri Gage, Habitat for Humanity Northshore West president and CEO. “Our two affiliates have been old friends. The environment has changed, and they were down to one person. Their executive director reached out to us, and we worked on a plan where
the two could merge and still meet the needs of both areas,” Gage said. Under the new arrangement, prospective new homeowners will be able to work with the larger organization, and Washington Parish homeowners will also have access to the larger affiliate’s Critical Repairs Program for immediate assistance, according to Gage. “There are a lot of older homes in Washington Parish, and this program will help homeowners in need of assistance to make their homes safer,” she said of the repair program that deals with leaking roofs or plumbing and other issues that need more immediate assistance. The two Habitat groups have been fixtures in their respective communities for decades. Washington Parish’s affiliate had operated since 1986. Joining the two groups under one roof was a good move, according to
Gage. “One of the things that struck me is how warmly we were welcomed into the Washington Parish community. We recently went to a community outreach event in Bogalusa, and people were excited about us being there,” she said. She was especially excited to see people from different organizations make connections and see the possibilities that the new Habitat office could facilitate. Many groups came forward to offer their help, according to Gage. “Michael Williamson with United Way of Southeast Louisiana was one of the participants in that meeting, and he’s excited about the merger. We’re looking forward to working with the United Way to be of assistance in the community.” To serve both areas, an information office will be located in Washington Parish, in addition to the affiliate’s homeownership office at the Habitat Resale store in Mandeville.
The new Northshore West affiliate has assumed the 20 active mortgages from the Washington Parish office and will service those loans. As Habitat homeowners make their mortgage payments, proceeds from those loans go to support new build projects. According to Gage, the plans to merge the two entities took some time due to making sure combining their resources and procedures met with compliance by the international organization. To help make this a seamless process, Brenda Williams, the former executive director of the Washington Parish affiliate, has agreed to work as a consultant for the Northshore West affiliate for the first year.
“Having Brenda’s knowledge will be a good bridge to help us serve the new, expanded area,” Gage said. “We are excited to offer our services to the people in Washington Parish. We have the structure, the procedures and the people to make things happen there. We are thrilled to embark on this new chapter as Habitat for Humanity Northshore West.” While homeowners in Washington Parish will now have access to the Critical Repairs Program to meet immediate needs, plans are underway for fundraising projects to support the building of new homes. Gage expects the first new home to be started within the year. This is the second time
Parent ing Cen ter
in the St. Tammany affiliate’s history that it has had a name change. When starting in 1981, it was known as Covington Habitat for Humanity. In 1994, the organization expanded its service area to the western portion of the parish and became Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West. (East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity serves the areas in and around Slidell.) As Gage has said in the past, the organization’s focus is clear. “Yes, we now have a bigger area to serve but our mission remains the same. We want to make a lasting impact on the lives of families in the Northshore West region by building simple, decent and affordable housing,” Gage said.
38th Annual Presented by
BOARD
Continued from page 4A
DISTRICT 9 The district includes an area in the west and southwest part of the parish, including Madisonville and part of Covington. Reid Mahne Mahne, 41, has lived in Mandeville since 1992, and is a director of procurement for a local marine company. He says his experience of “managing multiple budgets and operational challenges” have helped ready him for a seat on the school board. And the school system’s financial issues are item No. 1 on his platform. Mahne, a Republican, highlights a $20 million deficit the board faced and had to deal with by exhausting some of their emergency savings. He expects “reductions in the workforce by attrition,” and while that might not be a popular position, Mahne says “I’m willing to do it.” His wife is a teacher at Madisonville Elementary, and he has a daughter at Lancaster Elementary and another at Mandeville High. He says he began to think about a run for school board six or seven months ago and has been interested in community service. “My brothers are in the military, and my dad always preached about giving back,” Mahne said. “My family is big into education in public schools, and this would give me a chance to have an impact on all that. … The taxpayers pay more than half of their property taxes toward the school system, and we’re 17th in the state. We have to do better.” Samantha Ronquille Ronquille, 50, lives in Beau Chene and has spent
A nual 38th An
Saturday, October 17th Bogue Falaya Park | 10am - 2pm
A fall family festival benefiting St. Tammany Parenting Center
REID MAHNE PERSONAL: 41. Born New Orleans; has lived in Mandeville since 1992. EDUCATION: Graduated from LSU in 2008. PROFESSIONAL: Director of procurement at Blessey Marine services in Harahan. POLITICAL: Republican. 28 years in the insurance field —as a field adjustor, claims manager and now a vice president, and she emphasizes her skills in budgeting and policy analysis, which she says are “relevant to school board governance and fiscal oversight.” Ronquille, a Republican, said watching school board meetings the past four years made her want to lead “constructive change,” which she said starts with spending. If elected, Ronquille said her first order of business would be to push for a thorough budget review to identify how to increase funds for teachers and faculty without increasing spending. Ronquille highlights how much work a teacher has to do that goes unrecognized — from working car lines before classes begin
SAMANTHA RONQUILLE
Tickets
Jim Derry covers St. Tammany Parish, and has been part of The TimesPicayune staff for much of the past 36 years. Jim can be reached via email at jderry@theadvocate.com.
Children under 2 admitted free
Adult: $5 CHILD VIP= $40
PERSONAL: 50. Born in New Orleans and raised on the Westbank; lives in Madisonville. EDUCATION: Graduated from Ursuline High School. Earned a bachelor’s in English at Southwestern Louisiana (now the University of LouisianaLafayette). PROFESSIONAL: Has worked in the insurance field for 28 years. POLITICAL: Republican to grading papers late into the night. “A teacher may start the day at 5 a.m. and end it at 10 at night, and they’re not being compensated for that,” Ronquille said. “I am not running for a political move — I don’t want to be a politician. If you’re in it for that, you’re in it for the wrong reasons. This is about helping people.”
Children: $15 in advance I $20 at gate
m - 2pm
Tickets available online only
dothemash.org
Sponsors
St. Tammany Parenting center thanks these community partners
in-kind sponso
rs
✦ St. Tammany ✦ Wednesday, September 30, 2026 ✦ 7A
lll
Preston
Tour bus operator
“The future’s happening here in Richland Parish.” Kaycie
Coffee shop owner
Lindsay
Food truck owner
$1.6 billion for Louisiana businesses. Catering for 40 people used to be a good week. Now they hit 400. And that’s just the tacos. From coffee shops to bus tours, Meta’s Richland Parish investment is already paying off for businesses across Louisiana.
The future is for everyone. meta.com/BuildingLouisiana
8A ✦ Wednesday, September 30, 2026 ✦ St. Tammany ✦
lll
Montford Point Marine celebrates 100th year in Slidell
BY MARGARET ALBERT
Contributing writer
On Sept. 17, a special 100th birthday celebration for a most interesting man was the order of the day at Slidell Fire Training Academy. A few weeks earlier, Capt. Rick Kelly, of St. Tammany Fire District 1, had learned that World War II veteran Pfc. Adrian J. Doucette, USMC, was approaching his 100th year. After a few strategic phone calls, plans unfolded, a cake was ordered and invitations went out. That Thursday afternoon, the centennial soldier ar-
rived at the academy and was greeted by the applause and cheers of family, friends and local dignitaries gathered to celebrate and honor him. A lifelong resident of Slidell, Doucette is also a proud member of the Tchefuncte Nation, Chahta Tribe of Bonfouca, whose community and heritage are interwoven with St. Tammany. But what many may not know is that his military service was as an original Montford Point Marine who trained at Montford Point Camp, N.C., with other brave Black Americans and were the first soldiers to break the color barrier
Slidell Mayor Randy Fandal presents lifelong Slidell resident Adrian J. Doucette with a proclamation in honor of his 100th birthday.
in the U.S. Marine Corps since the American Revolution. In November 2023, Doucette’s distinguished service earned him a Congressional Gold Medal, the nation’s oldest and highest civilian award. At the gathering in Slidell, Mayor Randy Fandal presented Doucette with a proclamation in his honor, as well as awarding him a Certificate of Honor and Recognition from Sgt. Chris Kaufmann, of St. Tammany Fire District No. 1. A reception followed the honors ceremony.
PHOTO BY MARGARET ALBERT
WOODEN BOAT FEST POSTER $10,000 awarded to beautify SPEAKS TO UNITY OF THE WATER Slidell-area roundabout
BY LISA VON EBERSTEIN Contributing writer
Staff report
New Orleans artist Abby Cantrell spends much of her free time on the Tchefuncte River in Madisonville and at the Mandeville lakefront, inspiring the acrylic painting she created as the poster for the 35th Annual Wooden Boat Festival. Cantrell’s artwork was unveiled during a reception Sept. 17 at Maritime Museum Louisiana in Madisonville. Reflecting this year’s festival theme, “United by the Waters,” the painting features a boat named Unity, along with the Madisonville bridge and lighthouse in the background. “Two things immediately stood out and took center stage in Abby’s painting — the beautiful water and the boat, fittingly named Unity. By placing Unity on the water, she cleverly captured the idea that there truly is unity in the water, beautifully aligning with this year’s theme,” MMLA special events coordinator Andrea Moses said. For Cantrell, being selected to create the festival poster brought together her connection to the northshore, her love of the water and her work as an artist. She has attended the Wooden Boat Festival many times, but this was the first year she saw the museum’s call to artists on Facebook for the festival poster. Her aunt sent her the announcement. “I had just added ‘create a festival poster’ to my bucket list so this was perfect timing,” Cantrell said. She began painting a vision that came to mind when she thought about the festival. “I had seen the past years’ beautiful posters but wanted this one to bring a new energy that reflected the energy of the festival, like with the use of bright colors and expressive brush strokes. I wanted to appeal to the new generations of young families coming to the fest, along with honoring those who have been around for the past 35 years,” she said. Cantrell said she has loved creating art for as long as she can remember. She earned a degree in studio arts, concentrating on painting and sculpture, and has two public sculptures in Metairie. She opened a studio gallery in Kenner’s Rivertown, taught art classes and helped with efforts to revitalize the area. She also has designed craft projects for Hobby Lobby stores across the country, and created art while traveling as a flight attendant. “I’ve been doing that ever since,” Cantrell said. “I mainly fly to Europe and I’m constantly inspired. Being an artist is truly just a part of who I am.” Cantrell primarily paints in acrylic and watercolor. She describes her acrylic work as colorful and expressive representational art, while her watercolor work has more of an illustration style. “I’m so excited and honored to get to share my artwork with the festival and this community,” she said. “I love being on or around the water and hoped my art would reflect that feeling, along with the spirit of Madisonville.” Jim MacPherson, executive director of Maritime Museum Louisiana, said the artwork is symbolic of the region’s relationship with its waterways. “It shows our unity with the water, and the
The nonprofit Lakeshore Beautification Corp. has been awarded a $10,000 Healthy Communities grant to beautify a roundabout near the I-10/Oak Harbor Boulevard interchange exit, where the group plan to install a large stainless steel pelican structure. Construction of the sculpture starts in October, and the nonprofit expects its project to be finished during the first quarter of 2027. The nonprofit, formed by a group of Slidell residents, is soliciting donations from local businesses and residents, but already, the group reports reaching about 90% of its goal. The 2026-27 Healthy Communities Grant was awarded by the state’s nonprofit Keep Louisiana Beautiful to support local efforts that improve the environment through litter prevention, waste reduction, recycling, education and other community beautification initiatives. This year, Keep Louisiana Beautiful awarded 22 Healthy Communities Grants totaling more than $177,735 to eligible organizations across the state, including parishes, municipalities, schools, universities, nonprofit organizations, state agencies and KLB Affiliate organizations. The funding to Keep Louisiana Beautiful came down from the Office of Lt. Gov. Billy
PROVIDED PHOTO
New Orleans artist Abby Cantrell created this year’s official Wooden Boat Festival poster.
WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL WHAT: Celebrate the 35th annual Wooden Boat Festival on the banks of the Tchefuncte River, featuring more than 100 classic boats, hundreds of spectator boats, live music, food and drink, vendors, “Quick & Dirty Regatta,” children’s village and more. WHEN: Oct. 17-18 | 10 a.m. — 6 p.m. WHERE: 133 Mabel Drive, Madisonville HOW MUCH: Tickets: $15 per person, per day for ages 13 and older. Children 12 and under free.
MARITIME MANIA GALA
WHEN: Oct. 16 | 7:30 p.m. — 10:30 p.m. WHERE: Maritime Museum Louisiana, 133 Mabel Drive, Madisonville WHAT IS THIS: Sponsor and patron party the night before the festival for ages 21 and up; live music, food, drinks, a pirate costume contest, silent auction and more. HOW MUCH: Tickets: $75 single; $125 couple WHERE: Get tickets and more info at maritimemuseumlouisiana.org/products importance of water in southeast Louisiana,” he said. This year’s Wooden Boat Festival will be the 35th edition of the popular party on the banks of the Tchefuncte River. The two-day festival attracts more than 100 classic boats, hundreds of spectator boats and wooden boat and music enthusiasts. The festival is open to the public Oct. 17-18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cantrell’s poster and festival merchandise featuring her artwork will be available for purchase. Festival tickets are $15 each or $20 for a two-day pass. Children 12 and under are free. For more information, log on to maritimemuseumlouisiana.org.
Corkern Air Conditioning, Heating and Electric celebrating 50 years in business!!
6!)/+" :$=35 !=5 :832!,35 0/=93 7<.(4 #3 032%/93 !++ ;2!=50 !=5 $3 !+0: 9!= ,!-3 9!23 :& *++ ":'2 3+39,2/9!+ =335011
"$#&!#%
"$1 &6!*$/$6!$!-+ 0)./$!, 3#)2/1$2 7('%(74%(75'
PROVIDED PHOTO
The stainless steel sculpture that will be placed at the roundabout in front of the Lakeshore Villages development near Slidell. Nungesser and the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism that he heads. It promotes a personal, corporate and community responsibility for a clean and beautiful Louisiana. KLB supports local communities through programs and resources for litter education, prevention, removal, enforcement, beautification, recycling, waste reduction and sustainability initiatives. KLB is affiliated with the national organization Keep America Beauti-
ful and is supported by a robust statewide network of Community Affiliates and University Affiliates. Learn more at KeepLouisianaBeautiful.org. The nonprofit board in Slidell includes St. Tammany Parish Council member Jeff Corbin; Cheree Sens, president of Lakeshore Beautification Corporation; Wendy Tynes; Shawndell Falgout; and David Zimmer. If interested in donating, reach out to Zimmer at Zim1104@Yahoo.com/.
✦ St. Tammany ✦ Wednesday, September 30, 2026 ✦ 9A
lll
WHERE LOCAL BUSINESS GETS LOCAL DECISIONS. LOAN & DEPOSIT PRODUCTION OFFICE 424 N Causeway Blvd, Suite B
10A ✦ Wednesday, September 30, 2026 ✦ St. Tammany ✦
lll
ST. TAMMANY PARISH LIBRARY
PROVIDED RENDERING
Renovations are about to begin on the Mandeville branch library.
Renovations about to start on Mandeville library branch BY JACKIE RIECKE Contributing writer
The St. Tammany Parish Library is preparing to start one of several major construction projects this fall. Renovations are planned to begin Oct. 12 at the Mandeville branch at 844 Girod St., with an estimated completion date of mid-to-late February. The library will remain open during the renovations; however, patrons will need to use the side parking lot entrance starting Oct. 5. Several features will be improved, including the front entrance atrium, updated bathrooms, new carpet, a furniture refresh and a tech upgrade to the current internet service. The most noticeable change will be the front entrance, which will also address a previous water intrusion issue. K. Vaughan Sollberger, Jr. and his team at KVS Architecture have worked closely with the library to design the updated space. Meanwhile, E.C.O. Builders Inc., of Slidell, will lead the construction of the project. While patrons will still be able to use the branch, they will see some modifications to what is available at any given time based on what part of the project is underway. This project is funded by previously collected funds from the prior tax millage, where funds for operations and capital outlay were included. Planned capital outlay projects include the Mandeville branch renovation, the Slidell branch renovation, and a new building for the Lacombe branch. The Slidell and Lacombe projects are still in the planning phase.
Cost savings Cutting the cord became a popular movement a decade ago. Ditching traditional cable and satellite services seemed like a good option to reduce bills until the cost of individual subscriptions surpassed what people were paying before. It doesn’t take an economist to know
things have gotten more expensive. Thankfully, the library offers more than books, more than just a resource for research papers, but also various avenues of entertainment. For those who prefer streaming content, Hoopla is a great option for movies, TV shows and music. There is a cap of eight borrows per patron per month, so the library also offers a wide selection of physical media in branches. CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays and video games are easily found by using the library’s online catalog. A title may not be at one particular branch, but patrons can easily place the item on hold through their online account to have it delivered to their local branch for pickup. The library keeps up to date with the most in-demand items and regularly adds new releases to its massive catalog. If an item is not available, patrons can always suggest a purchase on the website. Visit sttammanylibrary. org to discover what the library has to offer.
A Friends’ sale The Friends of the Slidell Library will hold its Second Saturday Special Sale on Oct. 10 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Slidell branch, 555 Robert Blvd. This sale will include items that are related to Louisiana and the South. Cash and checks are accepted for all purchases, and all funds raised are used to help support the Lacombe, Pearl River, Slidell and South Slidell branches.
Other events Pearler Beads: Teens can get creative with pearler beads at the Mandeville branch on Oct. 5 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Visit bit. ly/3TkwrxY to register. Laminated Bookmarks: Kids ages 6 to 9 can make a laminated bookmark using fun materials at the Pearl River branch on Oct. 5 from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. No registration is needed.
PHOTO BY GRANT THERKILDSEN
Officer Dylan Thomas, Dana Keith and others enjoy a bit of line dancing at an earlier Greater Mandeville Police Foundation-hosted National Night Out at the city’s trailhead.
Time for neighbors to get out and meet police
BY DARREN COOPER Contributing writer
The St. Tammany Parish Sherriff’s Office is partnering with towns across the northshore for National Night Out events Tuesday, Oct. 6. National Night Out is billed as a chance for community members to interact with multiple local law enforcement agencies and service organizations. There will be plenty of free food and drinks offered and the chance to meet with community leaders. In addition to the three larger events listed below, there will also be an event at the 4th District Station, 81651 La. 21 in Bush, from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. “National Night Out strengthens the relationships between our residents and law enforcement while also highlighting the strong partnerships we have with our municipal police departments,” said Sheriff Bert Ibert in a press release. “Criminals don’t pay attention to jurisdictional lines, and neither do we when it comes to working together to keep St. Tammany Parish safe.” Neighborhoods hosting their own National Night Out celebrations are asked to register the event with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office so deputies can join in the activities. Registered them on the STPSO website at www.STPSO.com. Here are major National Night Out events aready planned.
Mandeville When & Where: 5 p.m.-8 p.m. at the Trailhead There will be music along with the local dance troops Mande Milkshakers and Bad Moms That Dance. The Mandeville High School and Junior High dance teams will also perform. Members of the Sheriff’s Office, State Police, Probation and Parole offices will be on hand, plus other
community organizations, including Hope House and Safe Harbor. Various restaurants will be serving food. For the kids, there will be a gaming truck and plenty of Halloween goodies. “It will definitely be a good experience,” said Mandeville Police Information Officer Dominic Falati. “Come and hang out with everyone, talk with the different agencies and meet the different officers. It’s a great chance to connect with your community partners.”
Covington When & Where: 5 p.m.-8 p.m. at the Trailhead The service organization In Jesus’ Name is donating food. Multiple community groups, including NAMI, the Clerk of Court, Special Olympics and the Covington Library will have representatives. Animal services will also be there with possible pet adoption opportunities. The What We Sow Foundation will have activities for kids. The Sheriff’s Office is providing snowballs. Councilman Joey Roberts will deejay, and the St. Paul’s Jazz Band will play. Various law enforcement vehicles will also be on display.
Slidell When & Where: 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at Heritage Park A state police helicopter will be on site, along with other pieces of law enforcement equipment, and the fire department will bring a Smoke House. The Slidell Police Association will cook jambalaya and hot dogs, and there will be pizza. Other local companies are donating food. Look for the “Trick or Treat” alley where kids can collect candy and treats from local families and community groups.
Rotary Club of Slidell readies Purple4Polio campaign BY SUZIE HUNT
Contributing writer Purple was the color of the day on Sept. 6 when the Rotary Club of Slidell kicked off its Purple4Polio fundraising campaign at Pizza Platoon. “We packed the house for hours. It was a wonderful day and a great start for this year’s campaign,” said Rotary Club President Pam Breaux. She is also this year’s Rotary District 6840 Polio Plus Society chair. Rotary chapters worldwide have worked for more than 45 years to eradicate polio through supporting childhood vaccination programs. All but two of the world’s countries are considered free of the disease. “As long as polio exists anywhere in the world, it remains a threat to children and communities everywhere,” Breaux said. The color purple is symbolic of the polio eradication campaign because children in remote locations routinely have their pinkie finger dipped in purple dye
to signify they have been vaccinated, according to Breaux. Along with proceeds from pizza and purple bling sales, attendees were also able to sample a special purple craft beer brewed by Camellia City Brewery. The day’s event was a precursor to a bigger celebration scheduled for Oct. 23 when the Rotary Club of Slidell, joined by several other organizations, plan to “Paint Slidell Purple” through a variety of projects city-wide. The festivities will include changing the City of Slidell fountain behind city hall purple and a second line through the Antique Umbrella Alley, according to Breaux. “Our final stop will be at Triangle Square for fellowship, and a specialty drink will be on the menu. Of course, it will be purple,” Breaux said. For more information about upcoming Purple4Polio events, contact Breaux at plbreaux@gmail.com or on the Rotary Club of Slidell Facebook page.
PROVIDED PHOTO
Championing Rotary’s Purple4Polio fundraiser are, front row, Rotary Club of Slidell’s Pam and Kenny Breaux and Pizza Platoon’s Donna Bach; and back row, Rotarians Ron Davis, Stacie Chitwood and her children Logan and Mackenzie Chitwood.
✦ St. Tammany ✦ Wednesday, September 30, 2026 ✦ 11A
lll
AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOODS ON STAGE
HORROR: The 1960s-style scifi horror musical “Little Shop Of Horrors” has devoured the hearts of theatergoers for decades, and it will be back beginning Oct. 2 to gobble up some more when the show starts another Halloween season run at the Cutting Edge Center of the Performing Arts, 767 Robert Blvd., in Slidell. Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, visionaries behind Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty And The Beast,” and “Aladdin,” were also the creative geniuses behind this show. The campy “Little Shop” is scheduled to run at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays through Oct. 17 at Cutting Edge. Led locally by director-choreographer Emma Daigrepont and Music Director Earl Poole, all the weird stars we love will take center stage again. See meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn discover a mysterious plant that he names “Audrey II” in honor of his sweet coworker, on whom he is crushing. But his plant turns out to be a foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore that feeds only on blood, and she leads Krelborn down a nightmare path he never wanted to stumble along. How does Krelborn balance the carnage he and his insane plant are creating with his love for his sweet, unsuspecting coworker? And how to stop it? See it for the first time, or see it again, but whatever you do, don’t feed the plants! Get tickets at www.cuttingedgetheater.com. HEAVENLY: “Xanadu, the Musical” is another campy piece, this one filled with lovely colors and music by Olivia Newton-John and the Electric Light Orchestra. It runs one more weekend through Oct. 4 at the Evangeline Theater in Mandeville. The Greek Muse Kira descends from Mount Olympus to Venice Beach, California, to inspire the struggling artist, Sonny, to create the first roller disco. But, natch, she falls in love with the guy, prompting her jealous sisters to create chaos. Based on the 1980 movie by the same name. Directed by Emily and Gordon Carmadelle; music direction by Brandi Lopez; and costume design by Jayna Young. Friday and Saturday shows at 7:30 p.m.; Sundays at 2 p.m., at 2635 N. Causeway Blvd. Reserved seats, $32, at www. evangelinetheater.com. FAMILY: Playmakers Theater
Amanda Shaw performs with The Cute Guys on the Festival Stage during the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival this year.
PROVIDED PHOTO
Ezra Astarion, as Seymour Krelborn, got in over his head with Audrey II. But she looked like just a plant, didn’t she?
opened its 72nd season with “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” a Tony Awardwinning comedy by Christopher Durang that mixes character names and themes from Anton Chekhov plays with modern family comedy about middle-aged sibling rivalry, regret and aging. The play explores these issues of family dynamics and growing old while riffing on Russian literature. Co-directed by Anna and Von Turner; general admission tickets, $28.29; seniors and military, $22.94; and children, $17.59, all inclusive, at 19106 Playmakers Road near Covington.
MUSIC
ROCKIN’:Celebrated homegirl and extraordinary Cajuncountry fiddler Amanda Shaw will play the fall season’s first free-admission Rockin’ the Rails concert at the Covington Trailhead on Oct. 1 at 5:30 p.m. The Rockin’ season opener came last weekend in the Rev. Peter Atkins Park, but the series venue now shifts to the Trailhead and its bandstand to continue the next five two-hour concerts on successive Thursdays. And what better way to start those than with Shaw, always an audience favorite wherever she plays a show with The Cute Guys, her longtime band. The singer-songwriter blends her Louisiana roots (Rockin Dopsie Jr. is her godfather) with rock and pop energy. Shaw describes her music this way: “It’s modern life mixed with some of the traditional sounds that raised me.” Her latest, full-length studio album, “Rhythm of my Roots,” was produced last year by Kent Wells, the longtime collaborator and bandleader for Dolly Parton. It
The New Orleans band Flow Tribe. links traditional Cajun music with modern American twists that is distinctly Amanda Shaw-flavored. You’ll know it when you hear it. Don’t forget to bring a fest or lawn chair to the Trailhead in case you think you’ll ever sit down during Shaw’s rockin’ show at 419 N. New Hampshire. JAM SESSION:The 24th annual Bayou Jam Concert Series opens with the first of four, free-admission concerts in Heritage Park this fall starting Oct. 4 with the color, light, sound, energy and music of Flow Tribe. This colorful, hardworking band prides itself on getting “backbones cracking and feet moving.” What does that tell you? They promise to bring the soul, funk, fire and energy to every show they do by performing multiple genres of music. New Orleans is a melting pot of musical influences, and Flow Tribe is determined to represent them all each time they step on a stage. Judge for yourself from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the park at 1701 Bayou Lane in Slidell. Don’t forget your foldable chairs or blankets for seating. Bring coolers and picnics from home if you choose; there will also be concessions available. ABITA: The Abita Springs Fall Fest is going back to the basics with a one-day festival packed with local art and food, cold Abita beer, and a full slate of live music on multiple stages at the town Trailhead. The gates open at 4 p.m. and the music starts right away with Electric Ramble at 4:30 p.m.; Flow Tribe, 7 p.m.; Bonerama, 8:15 p.m. and Dumpstaphunk at 9:45 p.m. On a separate songwriter stage, see Laine Bleau at 5 p.m.; John West at 6 p.m.; Paul Faith at 7 p.m.;
FILE STAFF PHOTO BY ENAN CHEDIAK
PROVIDED PHOTO
Beach Bums at 8 p.m.; and Todd Lemoine at 9 p.m. Kids 10 and under are free; all others are $25; get tickets at abitafallfest.com/. One ticket gets you all the music on four stages at 22049 Main St. GLOW & GO: A free oneof-a-kind black light show performance experience by Category 6 in Pelican Park near Mandeville on Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m. The Glow Show will blend multiple genres of music into a high-energy show guaranteed to keep the audience engaged. It’s a visually dynamic atmosphere that appeals to music lovers of all ages, with pop, rock and dance favorites. See the two-hour show at the 63350 Pelican Drive park at the Groves Bandstand. SOUL TIME: Mandeville Live! continues its admission-free Friday concerts on Oct. 2 with Soul Revival, an energizing seven-piece dance band known for its classic Motown, rhythm & blues, New Orleansflavored funk and favorite Top 40 hits that make the audience want to dance and sing along. Founded and fronted by musician sisters Fadra White and Zondra Jones, a pair who often add some big laughs to their shows. Don’t forget to bring lightweight chairs and blankets for seating, but no coolers, food or drinks. Concessions will be sold on site. FREE JAZZ: Jazzmen Ben Redwine and Don Vappie will lead the free NSTMS Jazz Jammers open jam session Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. until noon at the Covington Farmer’s Market, 609 N. Columbia St. The Jammers include student, amateur and professional musicians, all striving for camaraderie and pursuing together a deeper
understanding of North America’s only indigenous art form — traditional jazz. Sessions open to all musicians and listeners who want to come by. Monthly lead sheets available at https://www. redwinejazz.com/education. html. Email questions to redwinejazz@gmail.com. THE BAND: The Covington Concert Band will perform “A Symphonic Celebration” in honor of America’s 250th birthday on Oct. 8 at the Castine Center in Pelican Park near Mandeville. The 7:30 p.m. concert will be led by composer-trumpeter-conductor Erik Morales. This nonprofit group includes more than 60 active musicians from all corners of southeast Louisiana. The group practices weekly in Covington. THE VOICES: The Northlake Performing Arts Society will present its first concerts of the 2026-27 season on Oct. 9 at 7:30 p.m. and again Oct. 11 at 3 p.m. Both will showcase great American music from the 1930s, ‘40s, ‘50s and beyond. Favorites from the amazing Duke Ellington, some Broadway hits and music sung by famous American crooners will be featured in “The Great American Songbook” on the Covington High School Performing Arts Center stage, 73030 Lion Drive in Covington. Tickets for the NPAS performances are $20 for those 13 years and up; get them online at NPASsingers. org or in person at Downtown Drugs in Covington or C&C Drugs in Mandeville.
PEOPLE WHO MEET
FED WORKERS: The Slidell Chapter of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association next meets
Get Paid for Good Grades
With a Pelican Youth Account
Your child can build money skills that’ll last a lifetime—all while earning cash back for every report card A.* • Team Pelican Members Earn $5 per A • Teen Checking Members Earn $10 per A
• No Monthly Service Fee • Guardian Listed as Joint Account Holder
Psst…It’s More Than Savings!
Youth members are also eligible to apply for a $1,000 Team Pelican Scholarship as high school seniors. *Restrictions apply. See website for full disclosure. Federally Insured by NCUA.
R E A DY F O R M O R E ?
J O I N T O DAY O N L I N E !
Oct. 9 at noon at Aldersgate Church, 360 Robert Blvd. in the Genesis Hall. It will be the annual potluck with an auction to raise money for Alzheimer’s research. Please bring an item to auction and a food item to share. For more info, contact Lynn Brooks at (504) 495-9764, or chapter President Cindy Arsenaux at (985) 646-2296 or by emailing carsen01@hotmail.com.
COMMUNITY GUMBO SEE THE NIGHT: Pelican Park Nature Center is sponsoring a Community Night Hike at Northlake Nature Center, 23135 US 190, on Oct. 16 at 7 p.m. near Mandeville. Participants will explore a designated section of the Nature Center at their own pace, but in a contained hiking area that allows for independent exploration without the worry of getting lost in the woods. Experienced naturalists will also be walking along the route to help spot, identify and interpret the wildlife encountered along the way. Because everyone explores at their preferred pace, the experience becomes a collective effort. Participants should download iNaturalist to their devices before attending so volunteers can help them learn how to use the app. There will be limited flashlights and headlamps available for loan. Bring water. Children 6 and older may attend but must remain with parents at all times. Get tickets at pelicanpark.recdesk. com/community/program/ detail.
12A ✦ Wednesday, September 30, 2026 ✦ St. Tammany ✦
lll
OCTOBER 2 - 4
new orleans lakefront
SAINTS PLAY THE FALCONS THIS MONDAY
GET TICKETS friedchickenfestival.com
OCTOBER 5TH • 7:15PM • NEW ORLEANS
SAVE $ 00 2
SAVE $ 02 4
4 02
$
When You Buy 2
Ground Fresh Daily by our In Store Butchers!
5
SAVE
SAVE up $ 78 to 2
LB
LB
O F F I C I A L G R O C E RY P A R T N E R
5
5
$ 49 $ 97 Taylor Farms 2/$ 93% Lean LB LB
100% PREMIUM USDA ANGUS CHOICE BEEF
Boneless Shoulder Roast
SAVE up $ 90 to 2
VALUE PACK
OR 5 LB ROLL
Ground Beef
5 - 11 OZ SELECTED
Salads
SAVE up $ 18 to 2
When You Buy 2
8
2/$
Hot Pockets
14.5 - 15 OZ CAN SELECTED
10
10/$
Libby’s Vegetables
Green Beans, Corn or Sweet Peas
PARTNER
11
$ Coke, Sprite, 24 PACK
SELECTED FAMILY
97
Barq’s or Coke Zero
LIMIT 6
SAVE up $ 98 to 5
PREFERRED
PARTNER
When You Buy 2
When You Buy 2
4 COUNT PACK
PREFERRED
5
2/$
10.1 - 14 OZ
Kraft Deluxe or Velveeta Shells Mac & Cheese
4 COUNT PACK
Chobani Yogurt
7
2/$
largest selection & lowest prices on wine, spirits & beer
SAVE $ 00 1
SAVE $ 00 4
30 PACK 12 OZ CANS
Busch or Busch Light
22
$
99
90+ POINTS
750 ML SELECTED
Decoy Red Wine
17
$
99
750 ML SELECTED
Octopoda Wine
10
$
99
9
$ 99
750 ML
Schmitt Sohne Riesling
35 99
$
750 ML
Hennessy VS Cognac OR 1.75 LITER
Ketel One Vodka
10oz Rouses Bourbon Infused Cocktail Cherries
THC
4
$ 99
19
$
750 ML
Sazerac Rye
99
1.75 LITER
Benchmark Egg Nog
17
$
99
12 PACK 12 OZ BOTTLES
Samuel Adams Octoberfest
19
$
Pick up a premade donation bag or drop non-perishable food items into the red barrel near the exit.
Help fight hunger in our community!
Louisiana Local
49
Parish Oktoberfest
— ONLY —
FROZEN
88
Chicken Drumsticks or Chicken Thighs
¢
LB
5 LB BAG
SAVE UP TO $499
Rouses (MUST BUY 2) Red or Gold Potatoes
GALLON SELECTED SAVE Mini Chocolate Chip, Luzianne ¢ Oatmeal Raisin or 50 Tea
Shortbread Cookies
4
r in ou RY E BAKartment dep
THUR FRI
1
2
SAT SUN
3
4
SAVE up $ 87 to 5 When You Buy 3
— ONLY —
24 COUNT
$ 99
october 1st - 4th
SAVE $ 00 4
LB
PREVIOUSLY
FOOD DONATION BAG
5
2/$$ 2/
16 OZ BAG WILD-CAUGHT
40/50 Count Peeled Louisiana Shrimp
SAVE 14.5 - 24 OZ JAR up $ 98 Prego to 2 Pasta Sauce When You Buy 2
6
$ 99
1
$ 77
9
$ 99
Cheech & Chong’s THC Seltzer
LOW SODIUM
FOOD DONATION BAG
SALE
4 PACK 12 OZ CANS
OR
OR
4 DAY
SAVE up $ 11 to 2
9
$ 99
6 PACK 12 OZ CANS
Every donation helps support your local food bank!
ACCEPTED IN-STORE AND ONLINE!
PREFERRED
PARTNER
— ONLY —
5 - 9.625 OZ BAG
Lay’s Potato Chips
SAVE 16BenOZ & Jerry’s up $ 18 Ice Cream to 1
7
2/$$ 2/
7
3/$
SAVE up $ 98 up to 3 to
When You Buy 2
Louisiana Local
Prices good at New Orleans, Gretna, Kenner, Metairie, Marrero, Slidell, Mandeville and Covington locations September 30th thru October 7th, 2026.