St Bernard Magazine Summer 2022

SUMMER 2022 H E A LT H & G R O W T H VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2

Stronger St. Bernard Parish Hospital’s Partnership with Ochsner Health – P. 10 Population Surge – P. 24 Remembering St. Bernard – P. 28 “Classic” Runner – P. 36 Drug Court to College – P. 40 Eye Doctor – P. 22

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St. Bernard is my home.

Let’s make it yours too!

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Summer Issue 2022

Savor your Soul in Historic St. Bernard Parish

Celebrate our rich history while you explore Spanish St. Bernard at Los Isleños Museum Complex and historic village during our Isleños Festival. Connect with our coastal communities in Eastern St. Bernard, and experience world class fishing. For a natural encounter, the St. Bernard State Park is an ideal spot for camping and hiking located along the Mississippi River. Take a road trip down the San Bernardo Scenic By-way, and enjoy local restaurants, shopping and culture.

Live like a local and Stay in St. Bernard Parish.

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What’s Inside

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18 36 40 4

Summer Issue 2022

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Publisher’s Pen: Amazing People

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Newcomer Finds

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Readers Write

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Runner Finishes

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SBPH Stronger With Ochsner

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Family Resource

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Arabi Growing After Tornado

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Drug Court

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Parish Partners

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Praying Helps

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Staying Upbeat

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Manage Kids'

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Eye Doctor's

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Gardening:

24

Diversity Drives

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Penny's Cafe

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Population Chart

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Faces Of

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Remembering St. Bernard

Relief Fund

in Daily Storms

40-Year View

Parish Growth

Covers 300 Years

Kindness Here

32 CCC Events

For Addictions

To College

Mental Health

Screen Time

Smart Strategies

A Family Affair

The Parish

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Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Charles D. Jackson, President JPR (Jackson Public Relations) Enterprises, LLC Office - 2429 Octavia Drive, Chalmette, LA Mail - P.O. Box 57801, New Orleans, LA 70157 Email - stbernardmagazine@yahoo.com Website - stbernardmagazine.com Phone - (504) 609-7509

Copy Editor

Ads Designer

Faith Dawson

Sharon Hueschen

Art Director

Cover Photo

Charles Jackson

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Summer Issue 2022

Contributing Writers

Photographers

Karen Boudrie

Charles Jackson

Ron Chapman

Farrah Ross Appleman

Cisco Gonzales, Jr.

Devin Theobold

Charles Jackson Glenn Jordan Brandy Kellum Barry Lemoine Pamela Musacchia, M.D. Allison Plyer, Sc.D. Anna Timmerman

Vol. 4, Issue 2 - Summer 2022 St. Bernard Magazine, a subsidiary of JPR EnterprisesChalmette, is printed by Fox Press in Mandeville, LA. JPR Enterprises, LLC, Chalmette, registered with the Louisiana Secretary of State on 2/23/18, Charter No. 42965547K. Member, New Orleans Press Club; St. Bernard Chamber of Commerce Publisher Charles D. Jackson, (504) 609-7509 jacksonprnola@yahoo.com 2429 Octavia Drive, Chalmette, LA 70043 © 2022 JPR Enterprises, LLC, New Orleans, LA. All rights reserved.

Printed in the USA. The information contained in St. Bernard Magazine is intended for educational purposes only. JPR Enterprises, LLC, publisher of St. Bernard Magazine, does not endorse or promote any of the products or services described in the pages of St. Bernard Magazine, and the publisher does not verify the accuracy of any claims made in advertisements contained.

Publisher's Pen

by Charles D. Jackson

St. Bernard Strong “Amazing People”

Minutes or perhaps seconds after the most powerful tornado to ever hit Greater New Orleans ripped through Arabi on Tuesday, March 22, at 7:33 p.m., St. Bernard residents jumped into action. Neighbors checked on each other.

Members of the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office and Fire Department went door-to-door (twice) in search and rescue.

But we still have a long way to go.

“These guys were jumping over telephone poles, transformers, live lines checking on people,” said Louis Pomes, supervisor of field operations for St. Bernard Parish Government, speaking to the Kiwanis Club of St. Bernard-Arabi exactly one week after the tornado.

Sadly, we lost a beloved resident, 25-year-old Connor Lambert, whose amazing life was celebrated by hundreds at the Chalmette High School stadium a week later.

Once again, the community’s resilience kicked in. “The people of St. Bernard Parish have been amazing,” Pomes said. “There wasn’t one person who lost a home who didn’t have a place to go that night.”

Since the disaster, countless residents, community organizations and non-residents have volunteered to remove debris, clean, repair homes, and pass out food, water, gift cards and other necessities. “There were even little kids with wagons in neighborhoods passing out water,” Pomes said.

Many families need housing assistance. Of nearly 500 homes affected, 162 received minor structural damage, 93 had major damage, and 41 were totally destroyed. St. Bernard Parish President Guy McInnis said people who want to help can go to the government’s website (sbpg. net) to make monetary donations.

In this issue, read about a New Orleans couple

moving to Arabi after the tornado, how a longtime Old Arabi resident is coping, and the hospital’s strong five-year partnership with Ochsner. You'll also enjoy features on optometrist Dr. Dennis Muller, a 79-year-old runner who's participated in 32 Crescent City Classics, and a 41-year-old mother who got a new lease on life through Drug Court.

Nothing can stop us – not Hurricane Katrina nor a powerful EF3 tornado. We’re too resilient.

We are St. Bernard Strong!

By The Grace Of God, We Get It Done The magazine highlights the rich history, people, progress, traditions, culture, resilience, diversity, civics, small business, schools, organizers, and the extraordinarily welcoming community atmosphere of St. Bernard Parish. This mixture makes ‘Da Parish “The Most Unique County (Parish) in the Country.”

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Learning Something New From the first time I saw St. Bernard Magazine, I was very impressed and surprised. I just never expected to see such a professionally and well done magazine produced in and about our parish! I look forward to and eagerly read each issue from cover to cover.

I wasn't brought up in St. Bernard Parish but have lived here for 46 years. Despite this fact, I learn something new about 'da Parish in each issue of the magazine.

I look forward to each new issue. Thank you and your staff for doing a great job.

- Charlotte Hendricks Email comments to stbernardmagazine@yahoo.com

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Summer Issue 2022

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SBPH Celebrates Ochsner Partnership

Stronger Together (Sponsored Content)

S

t. Bernard Parish Hospital (SBPH) has a rich history of serving and caring for the people of St. Bernard Parish. While weathering hurricanes, storms, a global pandemic, and tornadoes, SBPH remains a strong community partner, having cared for more than 140,000 patients since 2017.

The partnership between SBPH and Ochsner Health has allowed for growth and increased access to high-quality healthcare. This year marks five years since the partnership was instituted in 2017.

Under the agreement, Ochsner runs the hospital's day-to-day operations while the SBPH Board provides oversight.

We now offer more care options and treatment right here in our own community than ever before.

– Kim Keene, Chief Executive Officer

Before the partnership, SBPH faced closure in 2015 due to accumulated long-term debt and negative cash flow. Since partnering with Ochsner, SBPH has opened a new healthcare center at the SBPH Medical Office Building with a multi-specialty clinic and women’s services.

The hospital recruited more than 20 providers during the first year of the agreement, which resulted in expanded offerings on campus in primary and specialty care areas. Throughout the last five years, specialty services in pain management, pulmonology, hepatology, podiatry, gastroenterology, general surgery, and pediatrics have all increased.

Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards celebrates the state’s Medicaid Expansion anniversary at SBPH.

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Summer Issue 2022

Fighting the Pandemic COVID-19 has been challenging for all facets of healthcare over the past two years. With a dedicated workforce on the frontlines, SBPH was able to assist in the fight against the global pandemic by administering more than 18,500 vaccines in the community. About 14,000 in-hospital COVID-19 tests have been administered. SBPH was also a monoclonal antibody treatment site and treated more than 400 patients under its Emergency Use Authorization.

Dr. Pamela Musacchia takes care of Ochsner Children’s Health Center, providing services to St. Bernard’s smallest patients.

Improving for Best Care “Ochsner and SBPH’s partnership has been essential to expanding the vital services we offer to our local residents,” said Kim Keene, chief executive officer of St. Bernard Parish Hospital. “We now offer more care options and treatment right here in our own community than ever before.”

The hospital has received numerous accolades throughout the years. SBPH is the recipient of an ‘A’ Fall 2021 Hospital Safety Grade by The Leapfrog Group, 2020-2021 Louisiana Medical Mutual Insurance Company (LAMMICO) Patient Safety Award and Grant, and the CareChex award for top 10 percent in the state for Medical Excellence in General Surgery and Orthopedic Care. The St. Bernard Chamber of Commerce has honored SBPH as the Healthcare Hero of the Community.

Through the Ochsner partnership, SBPH is poised to continue providing high-quality care for years and generations to come, achieving operational excellence, financial stability and continual growth.

The hospital has made $10 million in capital improvements and purchased new equipment to ensure the best care for patients. New equipment updates have included a high-resolution CT scanner, mobile X-ray units, Respironics V60 hospital ventilators, portable ultrasound system, portable echocardiography machine, hospital-wide cardiac monitoring system and the Xenex LightStrike Germ-Zapping Robots to reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections.

“The key to continued growth and ensuring the hospital’s mission are the physicians, medical staff and employees of SBPH,” Keene said. “The partnership with Ochsner has given way for a strong and engaged workforce with access to professional development opportunities to advance careers.

SBPH employees live the hospital’s values of putting patients first, compassion, integrity, excellence and teamwork.”

SBPH leaders and staff participate in the annual Skills Fair.

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How We've Grown The hospital recruited more than 20 providers during the first year of the agreement, expanding offerings on campus in primary and specialty care.

New Equipment High-resolution CT scanner Mobile X-ray units Respironics V60 hospital ventilators Portable ultrasound system Portable echocardiography machine Hospital-wide cardiac monitoring system Ochsner Specialty Health Center’s Cardiology Department celebrates heart month with Dr. Greg Vorhoff.

Expanded Services Primary Care Women's Services Pain Management Pulmonology Hepatology Podiatry General Surgery Pediatrics

Xenex LightStrike Germ-Zapping Robots to reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections

Awards for Care Rated "A" Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 Hospital Safety Grade by The Leapfrog Group 2020-2021 Louisiana Medical Mutual Insurance Company Patient Safety Award The CareChex Award for Top 10 percent in the state for Medical Excellence in General Surgery and Orthopedic Care The St. Bernard Chamber of Commerce Healthcare Hero of the Community

CEO Kim Keene (above) accepts the LAMMICO Safety grant award, celebrating quality achievements that were highest in the tri-state region of Louisiana, Mississippi and Arkansas.

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Summer Issue 2022

Hospital Responds & Serves After Storms

CEO Kim Keene and Assistant Vice President/Associate Administrator Lani Fast greet St. Bernard Parish President Guy McInnis and Sheriff James Pohlmann on the SBPH heliport the morning after the tornado hit.

St. Bernard Parish Hospital employees volunteer at the Community Center of St. Bernard on April 22.

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‘Best-Kept Secret’ Arabi Still Growing After Tornado

By Karen Boudrie Photo by Devin Theobold First-time homebuyers Anthony Sears and Donald Tran purchased new digs on Center Street.

W

hen Anthony Sears and his fiancé Donald Tran told friends that they wanted to move to Arabi, most people simply said, “Where?” Even their Realtor was in unfamiliar territory. But these first-time homebuyers weren’t fazed. They had stumbled upon what Sears called, “a best-kept secret close to the Quarter but away from the insanity.” It was a random search on Realtor.com at the start of the pandemic that led them to St. Bernard Parish. When they plugged in their criteria, Sears said, “What popped up was a brand new, super modern home that was a crazy-large, fantastic house!”

The couple came to Arabi and fell in love with the open-concept, new construction homes on streets alive with rebirth and friendly neighbors. But their dream of moving to this burgeoning slice of Americana kept getting snatched away.

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Summer Issue 2022

“We were losing home after home by being outbid,” Sears said. They were caught in the whirlwind of growth spurred by the Sold on St. Bernard Builder Bundle program, which contributed to St. Bernard’s status as the fastest-growing parish in the state.

But Sears and Tran kept looking. Even after the tornado landed in Arabi on March 22, they got fearful for all of a minute. “We saw crazy resilience. We saw a community that wasn’t waiting for anyone to come help. 'We’re a community, we’re going to help each other,' ” Sears said.

Tran saw it too – on TV news and in person visiting the devastated area. “For me it’s really the sense of community here. Orleans Parish is not getting any better with high crime, not enough police. My car got broken into several times. It’s time for a change,” he said.

Photo by Farrah Ross Appleman

We saw crazy resilience. We saw a community that wasn’t waiting for anyone to come help. We’re a community; we’re going to help each other.

— Anthony Sears, New Orleans transplant

The Community “Wow” Factor Their patience finally paid off. They found a home on Center Street in Arabi and knew immediately after meeting the neighbors, some of whom tried to feed them hamburgers, that this was exactly where they needed to be. This time, they made sure their bid was strong and their offer was accepted.

It was an eye-opening experience for their Realtor, too.

Ginger Ellis of Latter & Blum says the Sears and Tran purchase was her first transaction ever in Arabi.

“When I got there for the first time I was like, ‘Wow, I didn’t realize it was like this.’ It’s really nice with all the new construction and there’s a real sense of community,” Ellis said. “Absolutely I would encourage people to look into Arabi, especially if they have not even considered it before. It’s not what you think. It’s really close to the French Quarter and the Bywater – it’s right on the other side.”

A very dedicated group of buyers see real value in St. Bernard, despite the devastation of almost an entire neighborhood by the tornado.

— Lara Schultz, Realtor One of St. Bernard’s top Realtors, Lara Schultz, said the recent uptick in interest rates is “producing a very dedicated group of buyers who see real value in St. Bernard, despite the devastation of almost an entire neighborhood by the tornado.”

“We’re seeing a very robust market with a lower-than-normal inventory with only about 16 newly constructed homes for sale in Arabi right now,” Schultz said. “That means these new construction homes are usually under contract within weeks, if not days.”

Parish Partners To Manage Relief Fund The EF-3 tornado that ripped through Arabi was the strongest-ever in New Orleans history, peaking at 160 mph. It destroyed 50 homes and damaged more than 450.

Within a week and a half afterward, several hundred thousand dollars were raised to help the victims. Some homeowners had no insurance while others were left with huge deductibles or even worse: no potential insurance payments because their companies went bankrupt after the disaster.

“It’s overwhelming,” Parish President Guy McInnis said.

Still, he is heartened. “People from all over have been donating money and supplies.

The outpouring of support has been amazing.”

St. Bernard Parish Government has partnered with the Greater New Orleans Foundation to manage a growing tornado relief fund.

Arabi native Ronnie Lamarque and his wife, Natasha, donated $100,000. Ronnie Lamarque, Jr. and his family donated $50,000. Another $100,000 was gifted by Louie and Sally Roussel. Countless other smaller donations have been pouring in and McInnis hopes that there will be more than $400,000 available to help the victims with housing assistance, replacing vehicles, and insurance deductibles.

Ultimately the goal is to ensure that everyone can rebuild.

And Anthony Sears and Donald Tran will be there to offer their new neighbors support during the process and maybe a hamburger or two.

—----------------------------------------------------To contribute to the St. Bernard Tornado Relief Fund, visit www.sbpg.net.

And again, there’s that resiliency. Many people in St. Bernard would simply say, “It’s just what we do.”

Because whether a person lives here or used to, “community” knows no parish lines.

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Parish Pride

by Barry Lemoine

Staying Upbeat Arabi Resident Makes The Best Out of Life’s Storms Photos by Devin Theobold

W

orking as a delivery driver for two years during the pandemic, dealing with hurricanes and a devastating tornado in your neighborhood, and caring for a mom with dementia would zap the life out of a lot of people, but John Jackson is not like most people. His relentless positivity and the joy he brings to others are inspirational and contagious gifts.

J

ackson, 49, is a St. Bernard native and an Arabi resident, but said his positive outlook can be traced to his mother’s homeland in Vera Cruz, Mexico. Jackson said his mom came to the country “with nothing and not knowing the language” but that she instilled in the family the importance of faith and gratitude.

“Growing up I always heard my mom thanking God,” Jackson said. “She would tell us to be grateful when we woke up and be thankful before going to sleep. So, that’s what I do daily!”

This familial love has continued over the years.

Jackson has been married to “sweetheart” Christina for 26 years, and they have three children and one grandchild. He said the best word he has ever been called in his life is Dad. Because their jobs – he’s a UPS driver and she’s a mail carrier – and family life are fast paced, Jackson said spending time together is critical. “Time is the most valuable thing on Earth. Once it’s gone, we can never get it back.’’

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Summer Issue 2022

Delivering Joy He said he also derives daily joy from his time on the job. For someone so upbeat, it should be no surprise that Jackson works for UPS. He said he loves the constant stimulation that each day on the road brings. “It’s never the same day to day. It’s challenging, and I love interacting with my customers.”

Christina and John Jackson have lived on Terry Drive for 21 years.

He said those warm exchanges were missing during the height of the Covid outbreak. “During the pandemic, I was not seeing my customers. It made me sad at times not having the interaction, but I knew I was helping the public.”

Now that things have returned to some sense of normalcy, Jackson is back to what feels right to him.

“I see them, and I hug them,” he said with a laugh.

Jackson always has a quick smile, a funny story, or a joke to share. In fact, his social media posts are full of his signature, creative silliness. He said it’s all trying to make the best of each day. If his life had a theme song, Jackson said it would be “Three Little Birds’’ by Bob Marley, whose lyrics really resonate with him: Don’t worry about a thing - ‘Cause every little thing gonna be alright “I don’t let things out of my control worry me,” Jackson said. “No matter what I have going on in my life, if I wake up, it’s a great day. It’s hard to believe, but our burdens would be someone else’s blessings.”

He said it’s all part of his philosophy of living his best life each day. “I want people to remember me as someone who loved his family and didn’t take life so seriously. I wake up every day glad to be alive.’’

His advice to others? “We don’t get a do-over in this life. It’s not a rehearsal. No one in life is getting out alive, so be kind and be a person people talk good about.’’

Well, John Jackson, mission accomplished. You are indeed a man who positively impacts the people in your path, and we notice. Thanks for living a life worth emulating and for the daily smile you deliver each day. You truly are a testament to Parish Pride.

Barry Lemoine is an award-winning writer and educator. His commitment to and passion for the Parish and its performing arts have earned him the moniker of “The Bard of St. Bernard.”

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Part of his personality is also rooted in the childlike glee he takes from some of his favorite activities. “I love to run, bike, skateboard, kayak, paddle board, work out and spend time with my family.”

Spirit of Community He said the number of storms the parish has faced recently has created some additional stress, but he said the outpouring of love has been amazing. “It just makes me wonder why it takes a tragedy for everyone to come together. Why can’t they just be like that all the time?”

Jackson said the tornado that hit Arabi – damaging his roof, patio and fence – left him in shock. “It was just another reminder of how fast life can change.’’

The damage was devastating and heartbreaking, but he said the outpouring of love and compassion that followed was inspiring.

That spirit of community has also helped Jackson deal with his own challenges, especially in caring for his aging mom. “She’s 82 and has dementia, so I try to do as much as I can, but sometimes I feel like I’m not doing enough. I’m trying to make as many memories with her as I can before she forgets who I am.’’

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Eye Care

Doctor Practices 40 Years in Parish

By Charles D. Jackson Photos by Farrah Ross Appleman

F

or 40 years, Dr. Dennis Muller has been gazing into the eyes of St. Bernard Parish residents.

He sees the love of his life – correcting their vision.

Muller was a 25-year-old fresh out of medical school, holding a doctorate in optometry from the University of Houston, when he began flirting with St. Bernard. In 1981, through a mutual friend, he met eye-care specialist Dr. Allan Cooper, who had a thriving practice in Chalmette.

“He had just expanded his office and needed someone to take his overflow,” Muller said. “I saw that as an opportunity to start and build a practice.

I started a few days a week. After six years, I started working full-time in his office.’’

The New Orleans native, with a young family in tow, immersed himself in the community, coaching Little League in Meraux. He had played baseball, basketball and wrestled at Jesuit, so athletics was a natural part of his life.

It’s such a sense of community. You can see from this tornado: people out there helping everybody – you don’t see that everywhere.

– Dr. Dennis Muller

A Love for St. Bernard In 2004, he bought out Cooper, and a year later Katrina hit. “I was sidelined out of St. Bernard Parish for two years, and a friend of mine said, ‘We’re getting people back, why don’t you open?’

“I couldn’t wait to get back,” said Muller, who now lives in Lakeview. “I love my patients down here.

Seeing patients in other parts of the city, I felt like a fish out of water. There’s a different feeling here.

St. Bernard is in my blood. It’s such a sense of community. You can see from this tornado: people out there helping everybody – you don’t see that everywhere.”

In March 2020, he doubled the size of his office on West Judge Perez Drive in Chalmette, where he has a partnership with eyeglass specialist Dave Munn. “He handles the optical, and I have the medical side of the practice.’’

22 Summer Issue 2022

Talking “Sugar” To Patients Muller sees between 10 and 15 patients a day who suffer from diabetes – sometimes referred to as “sugar” (which affects how the body uses blood sugar). The disease can damage the small blood vessels in the retina, causing leakage. “I make sure they don’t have problems in the back of their eyes.

If they do, I have a retina professional I refer for treatment. They do an injection of a drug that was originally developed to treat cancer.’’

The doctor often performs laser surgery, which he says is extremely safe, to treat glaucoma, cataracts and other conditions.

According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes is more common in non-Hispanic Blacks, 11.7 percent, than non-Hispanic whites, 7.5 percent.

Its prevalence in the South is directly related to our culture, Muller said. “We like good food and it’s hard to resist.”

Throughout the years, Muller has developed trust with patients to help them control the disease, which can lead to blindness. “A lot of time people 5/2/22 PM ask me AlanAbadie_hlfpg.pdf things they won’t1 ask their7:49 regular doctor.

For years, Dr. Muller advertised his practice using this photo of him and his son.

We do a lot of off-the-cuff education. I tell my patients to take care of themselves.”

At 65, Muller has no plans to retire soon. He has an endless love for St. Bernard.

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2020 Census Report

Diversity Driving Growth Population Reaches

44,000 After Katrina

By Dr. Allison Plyer New home sold by Jacques Alfonso, St. Bernard Realty

N

ew 2020 Census numbers are out, and they confirm what we’ve all seen with our own eyes – tremendous growth in St. Bernard since 2010.

The parish gained 7,867 residents since 2010, after losing 31,332 between 2000 and 2010, because of Hurricane Katrina and the failure of the federal levees.

The parish now has about 44,000 residents. That’s 65% of the pre-Katrina 2000 population. But unlike the decade before 2000, when the population was essentially stagnant, since 2010 St. Bernard’s population has grown 22% – the fastest-growing rate in Louisiana.

The Jenkins family (Andre Jr., Jack, Andre Sr. and Sumer) moved to Chalmette from Metairie 8 years ago.

St. Bernard is becoming an increasingly diverse place. From 2010 to 2020, the parish gained 5,098 Black residents, 2,701 Hispanic residents, 1,046 multiracial people, and roughly 300 Asian residents.

The white population of St. Bernard declined from 24,607 in 2010 to 23,165 in 2020, but the white population still remains the majority of the parish at 53%. Even so, had it not been for the increase in people of color from 2010 to 2020, St. Bernard would have lost population overall.

More People Identify Multiracial Particularly interesting is the large jump in the number of people identifying as two or more races.

The 2020 Census form made it easier to claim more than one race, and nationwide the multiracial population increased from 9 million in 2010 to 33.8 million in 2020 – far outstripping the 2.3 million multiracial children who were born over those 10 years.

What this tells us is that a large number of adults who previously selected only one race, selected more than one race in the 2020 Census.

The Nelson family of Meraux and Chalmette moved to St. Bernard Parish 15 years ago.

24 Summer Issue 2022

The decrease in the white population in St. Bernard could be partially attributed to people who previously identified as white on the 2010 Census, now identifying as multiracial. All those DNA tests we’ve taken might have something to do with this phenomenon.

Population Race and Ethnicity, 2010 - 2020: St. Bernard Parish

(which encompasses Meraux) where there were 109 closings in 2021.

Overall, the average number of days that residential properties in St. Bernard were on the market dropped from 2020 to 2021, suggesting a strengthening of the housing market. In 2021 homes in ZIP codes 70075 and 70092 were on the market for only 34 days.

The median sales price for homes in St. Bernard increased 18% in ZIP code 70032 and 34% in ZIP code 70092.

The Bioc and Cagandahan families moved from the Philippines to Chalmette.

By December 2021, the median sales price was highest for homes in ZIP code 70032 at $296,500, followed by ZIP code 70075 at $275,750.

Real Estate Market Strong Since 2020, the real estate market in St. Bernard continues to be very strong, suggesting possible additional population growth. The number of residential property closings increased from 529 in 2020 to 610 in 2021.

ZIP code 70043 (which encompasses Chalmette) had the largest number of closings in 2021 at 276, followed by 70032 (which encompasses Arabi) where there were 133 closings, and then 70075

Allison Plyer, Doctorate of Science, is chief demographer of The Data Center, an independent research institution based in New Orleans. She was selected to serve as chair of the U.S. Census Bureau’s Scientific Advisory Committee in 2018. Plyer is recognized as an international expert in demographics and disaster recovery trends.

25

St. Bernard Total Population

By Charles D. Jackson YEAR

POP.

GROWTH

GROWTH RATE

EXPLANATION

1721

Part of Orleans Parish; French Government Rule; Henri Le Blanc de La Croix receives land grant from (Arabi) Mehle Avenue to the Chalmette Slip.

1779

Spanish Government Rule

1801

700

Islenos, Runaway Slaves, Filipinos, Amerindians reside in lower parts.

St. Bernard Catholic Church serves Los Islenos St. Bernard Village along Bayou Road. In 1799, Pierre Denis de La Ronde purchases property for plantation built in 1805.

1803

Louisiana Territory Purchased by the United States On March 31 of this year, St. Bernard Parish (county) seat created at St. Bernard Catholic Church, in the heart of Los Islenos San Bernardo Village.

1807 1810

1,020

First U.S. Census

1817

Riverfront from Poydras to Aycock St. (Arabi) annexed into St. Bernard Parish

1820

2,635

1,615

158.33%

Immigrants settle here: French, Spanish, British and Acadian, along with Americans who buy Islenos land for sugar plantations. Many Islenos families move near Lake Borgne for thriving fishing industry, others remain in St. Bernard Village. In 1816, Hilaire and Michel St. Amand (Free People of Color) purchase Chalmette Plantation where Battle of New Orleans was fought.

1830

3.356

721

27.36%

Slave-driven economy, Versailles Plantation, land speculators and sugar industry boom.

1840

3,237

-119

-3.55%

Depression panic of 1837

1850

3,802

565

17.45%

Sugar industry rebounds, Irish and German immigrants, growing numbers of Islenos/Filipino fishermen, and trappers, timber industry

1860

4,076

274

7.21%

Elite families move into Creole architecture homes and plantations along river to Plaquemines Parish.

1870

3,553

-523

-12.83%

Coupled with sugar economy collapse, yellow fever epidemic and “St. Bernard Massacre of 1868,” it’s the largest percentage drop.

23.98%

Small village of Arabi, originally named Stock Landing, evolves alongside slaughterhouse industry. Sicilian farmers arrive, and growth of African American communities of Fazendeville, Verretville, Walker’s Lane, Goodwill and Violet.

1880

4,405

852

26 Summer Issue 2022

The Past 300 Years YEAR

POP.

GROWTH

GROWTH RATE

EXPLANATION

1890

4,326

-79

-1.79%

In the 1890 Census, 55% “Negroes” lived in St. Bernard Parish.

African Americans move to New Orleans (highest increase of black population than any Louisiana city). Former slaves also migrate to agricultural and industrial states for jobs.

1900

5,031

705

16.30%

Arabi, Irish, Sicilian and African American communities grow.

1910

5,227

246

4.89%

St. Bernard Bank led by Joseph Maumus founded in 1905. Meraux community established. Chalmette Refinery opens.

1920

4,968

-309

-5.86%

Spanish influenza of 1918, migration of African Americans to west coast and northern/midwestern industrial cities.

1930

6,512

1,544

31.08%

Sinclair Oil Refinery and American Sugar Refinery open.

1940

7,280

768

11.79%

Boom in industrial, manufacturing, farming and service-related jobs.

1950

11,087

3,807

52.29%

Arabi & Chalmette growing suburbs.

1960

32,186

21,099

190.30%

Kaiser Aluminum opens and “white flight” moves from NOLA 9th and 7th Wards (Largest % increase in New Orleans vicinity since city’s “American, Jewish & West Indies influx” of 1830–1840, 121.8% in “booming” mid-1800s).

1970

51,185

18,999

59.0%

Black township of Fazendeville seized by Parish and U.S. government in 1963 to expand Chalmette Battlefield site.

1980

64,097

12,912

25.23%

21,453 housing units in St. Bernard Parish, 73.47% owner occupied.

1990

66,631

2,534

3.95%

Kaiser Plant closes

2000

67,229

598

0.89%

2005

Hurricane Katrina: floodwaters swamp nearly all homes. Parish declared only county in U.S. history “Completely Destroyed by Natural Disaster”

2010

35,897

2020

43,764

-29,807

7,867

-44.73%

Despite drop in percentage, St. Bernard had highest five-year population increase since Katrina, rising from roughly 1,500 people in October 2005.

22%

St. Bernard is the fastest-growing parish in Louisiana. The growth is attributed to longtime residents returning after Katrina, newcomers from surrounding parishes moving here, as well as the St. Bernard Parish Government’s marketing initiative, Sold on St. Bernard.

The program created a surge of interest in the parish by working with builders to create beautiful, affordable new construction homes. These former ‘Road Home’ properties were put back into commerce by offering bundles of properties to builders to redevelop entire neighborhoods.

SOURCES: U.S. Census Archives, St. Bernard Parish Historian Bill Hyland, Researcher Charles D. Jackson

27

Remembering St. Bernard

28 Summer Issue 2022

Narrow Roads, Nature, Mosquitoes.

All Worth The Drive 50 Years Ago

By Ron Chapman Photo by Farrah Ross Appleman

I

am a New Orleans boy, born and raised in the proximity of the University of New Orleans, known as LSUNO back then. I began my travels to St. Bernard while attending Holy Cross High School because so many of my friends lived here… I also had a car!

Ron Chapman at Bayou Bienvenue on Paris Road.

29

I

n the late 1960s, I began to date my lovely wife Margaret, who lived close to the end of Paris Road. It was a two-lane blacktop road back then.

Judge Perez Drive did not exist. Coming from the city one had to take Claiborne Avenue to Rowley Boulevard, turn right to St. Bernard Highway, then left onto the highway, then left again at Paris Road.

There were no traffic signals then – there was little traffic!

When Judge Perez Opened In The Early 1970s I clearly remember driving along the new highway.

It had been carved through a cypress swamp. The drive was stunning as you traveled through the swamps with the bright moonlight highlighting the cypress trees. The experience resembled a trip through a national park. The drive was that enchanting.

One could also enter St. Bernard from the east – which I preferred for reasons I am about to disclose. There was no I-10 then, only a two-lane blacktopped, unlighted Morrison Road. From there you turned onto Paris Road, which was just as narrow, carving its way through a wooded area.

After you crossed Highway 90, you came to a train crossing with long trains. One must recall that few cars had air-conditioning, so windows were always down in warm weather. The prodigious number of mosquitoes fully appreciated the feast trains provided.

Photo by The Times-Picayune

Paris Road Pontoon Bridge

“Anchored to the north pontoon section of the Paris Road bridge, the south pontoon was damaged when a ship hit it in early Sunday morning,” The Times-Picayune reported Sept. 14, 1964. “The structure is heavily used as a connection between St. Bernard Parish and Chef Menteur Highway.”

Your Next Adventure Was a Pontoon Bridge Before the “Green Bridge '' was constructed, the only way to cross the MRGO was by a floating pontoon bridge that was tied on both sides. When a vessel approached, they untied it on one side and let it float downstream. Once the boat passed, the bridge was retrieved and retied. An interesting ride, especially when a truck passed on the other lane. It bounced up and down.

You then drove down Paris Road with the marsh to

All that remains is the foundation of the Bayou Bienvenue bridge on Old Paris Road.

30 Summer Issue 2022

your right, and the elevated landfill for the planned new highway about eight feet above your head to the left. That old Paris Road is now underwater.

When you see people “white bucket fishing” they have no idea that their bait lies resting on the blacktop.

The Bayou Bienvenue bridge became the next challenge. It was very narrow and caused increased stress especially with oncoming traffic. Large trucks often swiped side mirrors when passing each other. It was that narrow. All that remains today is the foundation.

Burning Dump Provided The Last Scenic Overlook A massive landfill lay to the right as you entered the parish, producing a lovely orange glow. This was always on fire, which yielded prodigious smoke and a unique aroma. Local boys used to visit the dump to shoot rats with their .22s for recreation.

I have to say, when I came into St. Bernard I often chose to take “the back way,” so my friends wondered, “Where in God’s name does this girl live?” Narrow roads in wooded areas, swamps, trains, pontoon bridges, burning dumps, then the destination. It was glorious. Cherished memories of years gone by. Margaret would always question, “Why do you come that way!” A loss of too much fun not to.

In just 50 years, St. Bernard has grown from a nearly isolated semi-rural community to a thriving urban society. Highways and interstates now allow easy access. Businesses thrive on Judge Perez Drive, where once cypress trees dominated the landscape. What was once the elevated “new interstate” is now I-510, which sometimes goes underwater. Old Paris Road is now totally submerged. Thankfully, we now have an elevated highway over the tracks and air-conditioned cars.

Mosquitoes are no longer a torment.

So much has changed in so few years.

Ron Chapman, professor of history at Nunez Community College, is author of "The Battle of New Orleans: But for a Piece of Wood." He’s also an award-winning amateur artist, and longtime columnist for The St. Bernard Voice. He has been president of Ron Chapman-Shipwright, Inc. for 45 years.

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32 Summer Issue 2022

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33

Newcomer Writes

by Glenn Jordan

Kindness Surprisingly Common

S

t. Bernard is a place I didn’t give enough appreciation to as a child. I moved here three years after Katrina, coming from a rapidly growing town in Georgia with beautiful spacious houses and luscious greenery everywhere you looked. Coming here, I was met with washed-out and abandoned houses with overgrown lots of bristly grass.

I couldn’t understand the local accent, and I was asked if I lived “up the road” or “down the road” by my classmates. We all grew frustrated when I didn’t know what street they were talking about.

It was a culture shock. Being judgmental, I was unable to see what St. Bernard offered in the beginning.

The first thing that stood out to me, even as a child, was the people in St. Bernard are the friendliest.

When I first moved here, there wasn’t much to do for fun, or even a nearby Walmart, but the people were friendly, giving, and enthusiastic just to meet

34 Summer Issue 2022

Sometimes I wonder if people in the parish have ever known a stranger.

– Glenn Jordan, resident since 2008

you. There is always someone ready to offer a helping hand when you need it, even if they don’t know you very well.

Due to money constraints, I wasn’t going to walk for my high school graduation. I didn’t talk about this openly, but a fellow student I only knew in passing overheard a school official asking me about it. Unexpectedly, he spoke to his family and not only did they help pay for me to walk at graduation, but paid for me to attend prom and

St. Bernard sits in the perfect location between having everything you need close by, while being far enough from major tourist destinations that it never feels crowded.

travel in style. I’d never experienced kindness like that in the past. In St. Bernard, it is surprisingly common.

The acts of kindness may not always be so extreme, but it’s not uncommon to be invited to crawfish boils or other gatherings by acquaintances you barely know. Sometimes I wonder if people in the parish have ever known a stranger.

There are many delicious and diverse restaurants to choose from. There’s everything from sushi and Thai, to pizza and po’boys. More than just food, there are frequent events in the parish as well. My two personal favorites are the Irish-Italian parade and the crawfish festival. The only reason to ever be bored in St. Bernard is by choosing to be bored.

As an adult, after living in the bustling city of downtown San Diego, California, and middle of nowhere North Carolina — where it took a 45-minute drive just to find a Walmart — I can say with full confidence that St. Bernard sits in the perfect location between having everything you need close by, while being far enough from major tourist destinations that it never feels crowded.

Glenn Jordan, a graduate of Chalmette High School and a Marine Corps veteran, earned his B.A. in creative writing from Chowan University. He moved to St. Bernard Parish from Douglasville, Georgia, in 2008 and, despite moving away three separate times, has always gladly found his way back.

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35

Better Health

Running A Lifestyle

By Charles D. Jackson

• Photo by Farrah Ross Appleman

At 79, He’s Finished 32 Crescent City Classics

A

t 180 pounds, then-34-year-old Mickey Michalik considered himself overweight.

He knocked off 40 pounds but gradually gained it back. Looking to regain his athletic shape from when he played football and basketball and ran track at St. Bernard High School, he started running again on Jan. 15, 1988. “Then, I saw an ad about the Crescent City Classic. I didn’t know anything about metric systems, and didn’t know what a 10K was, but I signed up anyway.”

Since 1988, Michalik has run in every Crescent City Classic long-distance running competition (2020-21 canceled). On April 16, the 79-year-old completed his 32nd CCC race. “This one was the best one ever.

I had my daughter and son running with me. So we took it easy and chitchatted the whole way.”

Michalik, who lives in Chalmette, reflects on his early days of joining the event.

“For me, participating in the classic started a significant change of lifestyle. I was still smoking cigarettes. After the run, the times I wanted a cigarette were getting longer and longer. One day, I was having a beer with a friend and puffing on a cigarette, but not inhaling. So I said that’s it, I’m going to quit.”

A few years ago, Michalik challenged his son, Mickey Jr., to participate in a Chalmette 5K race.

“He was starting to have physical problems gaining weight. I said, ’Come run with me; you’ll feel better.’

Now he’s beginning to see the light.”

36 Summer Issue 2022

Michalik's son, Mickey, Jr., enjoys meeting WWL-TV news anchor Sheba Turk at the start of the Crescent City Classic.

Michalik gets up at 6:30 a.m., checks his weight, and downs two cups of coffee. Four days a week, he runs 3 miles. “I look at myself today. My target weight is 143 pounds. Since 1988, I haven’t gained more than 3 pounds over that. Every day I get on the scale. This morning it was 144. I’ll now slack up on chocolate, eat a little more salad and maybe eat smaller portions.

“I feel great,” Michalik said. “I have the normal aches and pains of a 79-year-old man. I have an underperforming thyroid gland, and that’s the only medication I take. Anybody can do what I did. You just need motivation. For me, it was basically better health.”

37

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Beat Addiction A

Sheriff’s Connections Can Help

ddiction is a complex disease, often chronic in nature, which affects the functioning of the brain and body. It also causes serious damage to families, relationships, schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods.

The most common symptoms of addiction are severe loss of control, continued use of habit-forming substances despite serious consequences, preoccupation with using, failed attempts to quit, tolerance and withdrawal. Addiction can be effectively prevented, treated and managed by healthcare professionals with family or peer support.

One goal of the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office is to connect people suffering from addiction with the appropriate resources. Concerned family members can also reach out for help. No strings, no meddling, strictly confidential.

“The program is designed to help residents struggling with an addiction, whether it be substance

abuse, or even gambling related, find the resources they need to better cope with their situation,” Sheriff Jimmy Pohlmann said. “We are pleased with the number of individuals our program director Stanley Simeon has been able to reach out to since the program's inception, but the need to get help to those who are struggling continues to be so great.

“If you want to get rid of the crime problem, you have to start with the drug problem,” Sheriff Pohlmann said. “We spend a lot of money on incarceration, on people who have drug problems that commit crimes to support their drug problems and they're sitting in jail. They don't need to be in jail, they need to be in treatment."

To learn about the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office Addiction Resource Program, call (504) 517-2944.

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Drug Court To College

Photo by Devin Theobold

T

he mission of the St. Bernard Parish Adult/Juvenile Drug Court is to reduce crime and drug use through therapeutic interventions and intensive judicial supervision, thereby improving adult and family functioning, and community safety. The Drug Court program is a 12-to-18-month commitment (12-month minimum).

The length of time in the program is based on the individual’s success. Once in the program, participants undergo random drug screens, weekly court appearances, and weekly treatment groups. As they promote to higher phases in the program, the number of weekly drug screens, court appearances, and meetings are reduced. Several participants have graduated from the program and continue to live a successful healthy life, including Brandy Kellum.

40 Summer Issue 2022

Drug Court made me see I’m much more than an addict.

– Brandy Kellum, 41, started using drugs at 14.

Her Story My name is Brandy Kellum. I am 41 years old with two amazing children, Gavin, 17, and Ashley, 15. I have been a resident of St. Bernard Parish for over 30 years. I started using drugs when I was 14 years old. I graduated high school in 1999 and went to college, where my use progressed.

In 2001, I was in an automobile accident and prescribed pain medication. When the pain medicine stopped working, I started using heroin. I knew I had to do something, if not for myself, for my children. On October 13, 2010, I checked myself into rehab. I was clean for five years and went out one night and did MDMA (ecstasy or Molly). Before I knew it, I was doing that and cocaine every day.

To make a long story short, on February 3, 2019, I found myself sitting in jail. After 101 days, I was offered Drug Court. I was nervous because in jail I heard a lot of bad things about the program, but I wanted to go home.

When I started the program, it was a lot because I was not used to structure. As time went on, I adjusted. I’m not going to say that it was a breeze, and that I didn’t have any issues because I did, but I graduated from the program on November 9, 2020. Since finishing the program, my life has been totally different. I decided that I want to help others still struggling with addiction. Today, I am a junior at Southern University at New Orleans, majoring in Addictive Behaviors Counseling and Prevention. I should graduate in 2023, and I would like to open a sober living house for women with children. As a mother in recovery, I know how hard being a mom is when you get sober.

If you would have asked me three years ago if I could see myself in college, a present mother/ daughter/sister, happy, healthy, and drug free, I would have laughed. I truly believe that none of this would have been possible if I hadn't been offered Drug Court, which opened my eyes and made me see that I am so much more than a drug addict.

How Drug Court Works Must fill out an application packet Application reviewed by Drug Court Administration and District Attorney If accepted, has the option to enter a plea under RS:5304 Must attend counseling sessions, pass urinalysis, pass hair test(s), and avoid socialization with other convicted felons. Regular employment or enrollment in educational program strongly advised Sentence is suspended pending Drug Court participation Upon successful completion of the program, a motion is filed to vacate and dismiss the plea If unsuccessful, the original sentence will be imposed.

41

St. Bernard Parish Hospital Chief Executive Officer Kim Keene to Retire

Thank you, Kim Keene!

St. Bernard Parish Hospital (SBPH) Chief Executive Officer and local healthcare champion Kim Keene has announced her retirement. Keene will remain in her current role until July 31, 2022, when she will cap off six years as CEO of SBPH and more than 30 years of healthcare leadership experience.

“We are incredibly grateful for Kim’s leadership as she leaves a legacy of which to be proud. Kim’s experience as a nurse and passion for healthcare was evident throughout her service. Kim always put our patients first, which ultimately created a healthier community in St. Bernard,” said Robert Wolterman, chief executive officer, South Shore Region, Ochsner Health.

As CEO, Kim’s leadership was instrumental in achieving many milestones within the community. In 2017, SBPH and Ochsner Health entered a partnership agreement expanding healthcare offerings in St. Bernard Parish.

The partnership led to an initial $10 million investment

in capital improvements, additional specialties, physicians and providers, and new technology and equipment. SBPH has an extremely strong and engaged workforce who are encouraged to pursue development opportunities and advanced certifications or degrees.

“The St. Bernard Parish Hospital Service District thanks Kim for her service and commitment to the hospital.

Kim’s work in establishing the partnership with Ochsner Health resulted in a financially stable institution that led to an expansion of healthcare in St. Bernard Parish,” said Ray Lauga, Jr., St. Bernard Parish Hospital Service District chairperson.

Mary Hand, former chairwoman of the St. Bernard Parish Hospital Service District, worked closely with Keene during her seven-year tenure and echoed the same sentiments.

“Kim’s dedication to St. Bernard Parish Hospital, the employees and the patients is second to none. She has worked diligently to ensure the hospital is a place that community members can rely on for high quality care,” said Hand.

Keene has been honored by various organizations for her commitment to healthcare over the years. Recognition includes New Orleans CityBusiness Woman of the Year honoree (2018), Healthcare Hero honoree (2019), Nunez Community College Chancellor’s Vision Award (2020) and New Orleans Biz Top 500 leader (2021). Keene was also named to the list 100 Great Nurses of Louisiana.

She is a member and past president of the Women’s Healthcare Executive Network, board member of Nunez College Foundation, board member of St. Bernard Parish Chamber and executive committee board member of the St. Bernard Parish Economic Development Foundation.

“Kim has been an advocate for St. Bernard Parish and a fearless leader during some of the most trying times, including a global pandemic and natural disasters.

On behalf of St. Bernard Parish, I thank Kim for her relentless dedication to St. Bernard Parish Hospital and the community,” said Guy McInnis, St. Bernard Parish President.

42 Summer Issue 2022

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Your mental health is important and studies show that healthy prayer is a great way to increase your mental and physical health. How does prayer influence your life? Spiritually? Physically? Mentally? Socially? Still feel stuck even after prayer? Seek help!

Overcoming Grief “When he rose from prayer and returned to his disciples, He found them sleeping from grief.” - Luke 22:45.

1207 E. Judge Perez Dr. Chalmette, LA 70043

Hoghead Cheese

How many times have we been struck by grief? Do we tend to shut down? Do we find ourselves sleeping or restless? Angry? In denial? Depressed? Having regrets?

Grief is one of those complicated emotions. One thing is certain. We have to experience it in order to get through it.

Just like the apostles were grieving what was to happen to Jesus – death. The uncertainties. The questions.

The hopelessness. We are allowed that space as well.

There’s hope in grieving. Contact a counselor. Connect with a pastor. Find peace. Because you deserve it!

Homemade Sausage Custom Cut Meats Mickey & Debbie Michalik 504-277-6594 • 504-277-6595 44 Summer Issue 2022

Cisco Gonzales, Jr. is a provisional licensed professional counselor. Born and reared in St. Bernard Parish, Cisco has experienced many adversities that helped him recognize the value of mental health.

His current interest is the connection between one's faith and spirituality with their mental health.

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Ask a Doctor

by Pamela Musacchia, MD

Manage Kids' Screen Time According to recent research, 98 percent of households with children 8 years old and under – of all incomes – have access to a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet. Mental health professionals have not yet determined whether screen use can be a real “addiction,” but research is underway to investigate the relationship between screen time and children’s general well-being.

Due to the sedentary nature and lack of physical activity that accompanies increased screen time, conditions like obesity and Type 2 diabetes are on the rise. Several studies have investigated the relationship between screen time and obesity. Researchers reported in the Journal of Pediatrics that heavy screen use leads to a 43 percent greater risk of the condition.

Child development is also being impacted. Too much screen time has the potential to impair a child’s ability to understand expressions, social skills, empathy, concentration level, fine motor skills, communication, problem-solving and more. When kids are in front of screens for too long, they miss out on opportunities to learn real-world, hands-on development skills.

Ultimately consider these rules to help maintain a healthy balance of screen time: 1. Enjoy screens. Screen devices serve as tools for creation and discovery. Children learn more by playing and engaging, and not just passive watching.

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2. Not too much. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends less than 2 hours of screen time total per day. Too much screen time can contribute to poor sleep, obesity, and a risk of negative mental, social, and emotional outcomes. Shut down screens well before bedtime and put them away while eating. Make sure your kids get outside to play every day and avoid using screen time as a reward.

Because It Matters!

3. Mostly together. Kids often need help understanding what they see. Ask your children to explain what they see or ask them to enjoy what they’re doing with you.

Dr. Pamela Musacchia earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine and completed a pediatric residency at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Musacchia at Ochsner Health Center – St. Bernard, call 504-3543116 or visit Ochsner.org.

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45

Diggin’ in The Garden

by Anna Timmerman

Smart Moves To Beat The Heat

S

ummer heat can be brutal in our area, but the gardens and landscaping around our homes still need some care and monitoring in the challenging summer months. Plants need to be watered, weeds grow seemingly overnight, and pests can pop up unannounced. Gardeners also need to take care of themselves when tending the plants in the summer heat.

Heat stroke, dehydration, and sunburn are all afflictions that can make gardening a less than pleasant chore in the summertime. With some smart strategies, these unpleasant things don’t have to happen.

Work in Early Morning Working outdoors in the heat puts extra stress on our bodies. Try to complete garden tasks in the cooler hours of the early morning. This is the best time to water plants as well, as the water will be utilized before the heat of the day and leaves will dry so that fungal pathogens don’t take hold.

The other best time to do some weeding or spraying of pesticides is the early evening and twilight hours. After the sun loses some intensity, get out in the garden. Bees, butterflies and other pollinators will no longer be foraging at this time also, so pesticides can be applied.

46 Summer Issue 2022

Photos by Devin Theobold

Warren Chambon always wears a hat, long sleeves and sunscreen for protection. He’s been gardening for 30 years at his home on Pelitere Drive in Chalmette. “Any true gardener is never happy with their garden. They are always changing something.”

Roy Glapion (above) waters his plants and lawn on Pelitere Drive daily, and applies fertilizer three times a year. Wife Tiffani (right) selects the plants and provides moral support.

Drink Lots of Water Avoid dehydration by drinking water before, during, and after working outdoors. It’s good to drink some cool water before starting outside chores so that your body has plenty of fluids before you begin to sweat. Keep a cup or bottle of water handy in the yard, and be sure to drink up once you complete your work as well.

Drinks that contain sugar are less effective at hydrating, so try to avoid sodas, sweet teas, and other such beverages. Alcohol and caffeine should be avoided as they can exacerbate the loss of water from the body. Gardeners working in the heat can lose up to 2 quarts of water per hour, so try to keep up with drinking!

Mosquitoes not only make for an annoyance when trying to work in the landscape, but they can also vector diseases such as West Nile Virus. Products containing DEET are available as well as more natural repellents that use botanical oils such as lemongrass and rosemary oil.

Avoid the Elements

Stay on Task

Use sunscreen on your exposed skin and wear loose, comfortable clothing. A big hat helps to keep the sun off your head and cools the body.

Hats that cover the back of the neck as well as your face are especially effective. Mosquito repellent is a good idea if working in the early evening hours.

Keep up with small problems in the summer; it will not take them long to become big problems.

It’s easier to pull a few small weeds every few days than it is to do a large-scale, full-on clean up after avoiding the garden for a month.

Things grow quickly in the heat and weeds can get out of hand fast. With these tips, summer can still be an enjoyable gardening season.

Anna Timmerman is an LSU AgCenter horticulture agent working in the Greater New Orleans area. Reach out to her with any insect or pest issues, general horticulture questions, or to share what you are growing at atimmerman@

Springtime in Warren Chambon’s backyard.

agcenter.lsu.edu.

47

Small Business Profile

by Charles D. Jackson

Celebrating 25 Years

Penny’s Cafe A Family Affair

Penny Lepine and granddaughter Alyssa Lepine

F

or 18 years, Penny Lepine served as a short-order cook at three food stores in St. Bernard Parish. But when it came to opening her own restaurant – cooking meals for 30 or more people – she “got scared.”

“I had never cooked for that amount of people,” Lepine said. “Luckily, my father-in-law taught me how to cook larger portions.” Those larger portions – coupled with her homemade sandwiches – helped grow Penny’s Cafe. In July, the Violet restaurant celebrates 25 years.

“We had our ups and downs over the years,” said the 60-year-old. “But after Katrina, we’ve been slammed busy.” Husband David started preparing hog’s head cheese. The diverse menu – which features such weekly specials as fried chicken, seafood, liver and onions, and spaghetti and meatballs – seems to satisfy many palates.

“We have people coming from all over – Arabi, Metairie, New Orleans,” Lepine said. “A lot of charter fishermen bring people here. Even the guy who played the sheriff for the ‘Dukes of Hazzard’ TV show ate here.”

48 Summer Issue 2022

(That’s “Sheriff Roscoe P. Coltrane,”Mrs. Penny.)

“I heard a lot of people say it’s good to see the owner busting her butt working,” Lepine said. “We love our customers. We're really family-oriented.”

All of my grandbabies were raised right here in their playpens.

— Penny Lepine One of those grandbabies, born a year after the restaurant opened, started washing dishes at age 10. Now 24 and pursuing a pharmacy degree at Xavier University, Alyssa Lepine has been a waitress since 17. “I’m making money to pay for college,” she said.

That’s a family working together.

Fundraising for St. Jude’s Research Hospital

Photos by Charles D. Jackson

Lacoste Serves Lemonade To Aid Kids Christian Booker and Ethan Faurie join members of the Lacoste Elementary School Kiwanis K-Kids Club selling lemonade and pastries on April 30 outside Gerald’s Donuts in Chalmette. Proceeds benefit the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

To support the cause, contact the club’s moderator, Shana Powers at spowers@sbpsb.org.

49

Faces of the Parish

Newcomers and Longtime Residents

1

1.

The Crowe Boys Band (Ocie, Jacob and Wes) perform at J’s Tavern’s benefit for tornado victims. The brothers moved from Franklinton, LA, to St. Bernard four years ago.

2.

Amanda and Derek Campo with son Derek Jr. are lifelong residents.

Historically, the Campo family is associated with fishing, although Amanda is making a name for herself selling real estate.

3.

Lifelong resident Taylor Serigne of Toca has deep roots in Delacroix. He waits for the parade with Brenne Tank and Holly Allen.

4.

Philip Jackson is a lifelong resident of Violet. Retired after 32 years as a longshoreman, he now frequents the Green Store in Poydras and Chalmette Bicycles and Lawn Mowers in Chalmette.

5.

Lifelong residents the Gomez family wait for the Knights of Nemesis Parade.

6.

Newcomers Dalia and Dylan Davis (with baby) moved to Chalmette from Kentucky in January. Patricia and Jose Vigil have lived here 15 years.

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5 50 Summer Issue 2022

6

Faces of the Parish

Newcomers and Longtime Residents

1.

Lifelong residents Aimee Sandrock and Jay Bertheaud are first cousins. Mark Chenevert, left, has lived here 30 years.

2.

Miley Nation, 3, enjoys watching Llama Llama while waiting for dinner with parents who are lifelong residents.

3.

DeMariRae Perry, a third-grader at W. Smith Elementary, has been on the honor roll since first grade. She proudly reports: “I have the highest ARP (accelerated reading program) scores in the school.” Her family has lived here for generations.

4.

Lifelong resident Jeffrey Trudeau shows off his steampunk costume at the Knights of Nemesis parade.

5.

Cherie Silcio, second from right, celebrates her 46th birthday at Crave! with family members who are lifelong residents. Her father, Norman Landry, third left, served in the Marine Corps in Vietnam.

6.

Kerisher Verrett and daughter Tia moved to Meraux from Uptown New Orleans in July 2021. “It’s more peaceful here,” she said.

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52 Summer Issue 2022

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54 Summer Issue 2022

Diagnostic services close to home

St. Bernard Parish Hospital meets your diagnostic needs at one convenient location. Our highly trained staff guarantees a smooth transition between detection, diagnosis and treatment. We send your test results directly to your doctor to make sure you get the care you need without delay.

We gladly accept orders from any provider.

Weekend appointments are available: ✔ X-ray: 8am – 12pm, Saturday and Sunday ✔ CT Scan: 8am – 12pm, Saturday and Sunday ✔ MRI: 8am – 12pm, Sunday ✔ Lab: 7am - 12pm, Saturday and Sunday

To schedule an appointment, call 504-493-2200 or visit ochsner.org/schedule

St. Bernard Parish Hospital 8050 West Judge Perez Drive Chalmette, LA 70043

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