St. Bernard Magazine Winter 2023

WINTER 2023 VOLUME 5, ISSUE 4

Our Gifts Christmas And More At Los Isleños Museum & Cultural Complex P. 26

Tourism Boosts Economy, Community P. 22

CHS Cultural Arts Talented Performers P.40

Hometown Hospital Makes National Impact P.10

Meraux Foundation Coastal Restoration P. 32

Innovative orthopedic care, close to home.

From the injured athlete anxious to get back on the field to the grandmother who fractured her hip to the little boy who broke his arm falling out of a tree, Ochsner St. Bernard Orthopedic providers are here with compassionate, leading-edge care. If you have a bone fracture or are just tired of living with joint or nerve pain, you owe it to yourself to make an appointment with an Ochsner orthopedist.

Ochsner Health Center – St. Bernard 8050 West Judge Perez Dr. Suite 3200 Chalmette, LA 70043 504-493-2200 Madison Alexander, PA-C

Alexander Habashy, MD

To schedule an appointment, scan the code or visit ochsner.org/schedule

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Winter Issue 2023

Catch our Culture 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. december

2023

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CHRISTMAS AT THE COMPLEX

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KNIGHTS OF NEMESIS PARADE

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LOS ISLEÑOS CHRISTMAS BONFIRE

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COOK-OFF FOR THE COAST

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PEARL HARBOR MEMORIAL CEREMONY

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SANTA ON THE BAYOU

january

2024

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BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS EVENTS

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KREWE OF LOURDES BALL

tourist commission

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LOS ISLEÑOS FIESTA LOUISIANA CRAWFISH FESTIVAL AGMAGIC ON THE RIVER AT DOCVILLE

Only 5 miles from the Historic French Quarter Vi s i t S t B e r n a rd.com | (504) 278.4242

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What’s Inside

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Winter Issue 2023

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Publisher’s Pen Key To Success: Your Own Gift St. Bernard Hospital Ranks High in Care Luis' Metal Artworks Must-See Showcase Tourism's Katie Tommaseo Islenos Complex Attracts Crowds Meraux Foundation: Builds Coastal Team

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Cook-Off for the Coast Feb. 24 at Docville

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Restoring Parish's Sportsman's Paradise

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Louisiana Terminal Reports Its Benefits

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CHS Cultural Arts A Showstopper Gifts for Kids Gifts for Her Gifts for Him Recipe: Christmas Tree Cupcakes Ask a Doctor: Mental Health Part 1: History of Arabi Series Shoreline Fishing: Redfish Jubilee Plan A Winter Kitchen Garden Faces of the Parish

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JackDempseys_qtrpg2_12-23.pdf

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10/10/23

6:28 PM

Specializing in Seafood, Steak and Lobster Wednesday and Thursday: Dungeness Crab or Snow Crab Specials

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

Come See Us for All Your Holiday Catering!

Copy Editor Faith Dawson

We Appreciate All Our St. Bernard Customers!

Art Director Brionna Palmer

Hours: Tuesday, 11-2; Wednesday and Thursday, 11-8; Friday, 11-9; Saturday, Noon-9 Closed Sunday and Monday 738 Poland Ave., New Orleans

504-943-9914 jackdempseys.net

Designers Amanda Binder Sharon Hueschen Brionna Palmer

Consultant Herbie Fisher

Cover Photo Farrah Ross Appleman

Contributing Writers

Photographers

Catherine Bridges Bill Hyland Charles Jackson Barry Lemoine Mallory Matute

Farrah Ross Appleman Christy Cusimano Kenny Desselle, Sr. Peter Forest Charles Jackson Barry Lemoine

Myles Munroe Nellie Palmer Mary Rickard Todd Ragusa David Rudlow Anna Timmerman Nina Zelden

Vol. 5, Issue 4 - Winter 2023 St. Bernard Magazine is wholly-owned by Charles D. Jackson, president of JPR Enterprises, LLC, 2429 Octavia Drive, Chalmette, LA 70043. Printed by Fox Press, Hammond, La. Member: New Orleans Press Club, St. Bernard Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis Club of St. Bernard-Arabi, Mount Olive Baptist Church-Goodwill.

JPR Enterprises, LLC, Chalmette, registered with the Louisiana Secretary of State on 2/23/2018, Charter No. 42965547K.

© 2023 All Rights Reserved - JPR Enterprises, LLC St. Bernard Magazine does not endorse any candidates advertising in this issue.

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Winter Issue 2023

Publisher's Pen

by

by Charles Charles D. D. Jackson Jackson

Love For the Parish Reminds Me of Home When I moved to St. Bernard Parish from New Orleans in 2012, I was simply amazed by its natural beauty, culture and historical significance. Born and reared in Sanford, Florida (growing up it was promoted as “The Friendly City”), I came to New Orleans in March 2006, seven months after Hurricane Katrina (God’s calling). Seven days later, I landed a job as national communications coordinator for ACORN – a community group working to help residents return and rebuild, and three years later started working as a case manager for the homeless in permanent supportive housing.

Since living here, I find St. Bernard a lot like Sanford: 1) Historically quaint: Arabi homes display a major part of 19th-century New Orleans architecture. Arabi was home to thriving stockyards, gaming operations, and early industrial and agricultural businesses.

Trapping, shrimping and oystering were profitable Islenos’ occupations, with trains connecting Shell Beach to New Orleans. Sanford features a downtown of turn-of-the-century buildings and historical sites.

Throughout the mid-1800s to early 1900s, the city on the St. John’s River was known as the “Gateway of the South,” where riverboats and railroad cars docked, and a U.S. president came to christen commerce and tourism.

2) Rural in places: Down the Road is where fruit and vegetables were grown that supplied New Orleans restaurants and households for two centuries. Sanford’s founder (Henry Sanford) was first to experiment and grow Valencia oranges. He spurred the citrus industry’s growth until back-to-back freezes killed trees in the late 1800s. Sanford area farmers turned to growing vegetables, and the town became known as the “Celery Capital of the World.”

3) Resting on the edge: St. Bernard sits near a major waterway (the Mississippi) and is flanked by many bayous, just as Sanford sits on the shores of historic St. John’s River (the gateway to South Florida in the 19th century), and is located near several large lakes. And – most importantly – both have great places to dine; here, I thoroughly enjoy the family-style restaurants with great service and nice customers, making me feel

at home. (Since I don’t cook often, I eat out a lot – in Sanford and St. Bernard.)

4) Another parallel: The Battle of New Orleans was fought and won here (ensuring the expansion of the United States westward by controlling the mouth of the Mississippi), just as the Third Seminole War was fought and won near Sanford (formerly named Fort Mellon after the first American soldier killed in the First Seminole War). The name Seminole means “runaway.”

The U.S. won the first and second wars (North Florida, parts of Central Florida), but not the third war, led by legendary Chief Osceola, and a dark-skinned warrior named “John.” This group of Seminoles (Creeks mixed with former slaves) was the only tribe “unconquered,” avoiding the westward Trail of Tears other Native Americans and fellow Seminoles had trekked. (“Unconquered” is the theme of the Seminoles of Florida State University, where I graduated in 1981 from the College of Communications.)

As you can tell, I love history, and people. And what better place to live and bask in history – and the friendly people – than St. Bernard Parish – “New Orleans’ Most Historic Neighbor”?

Coming Soon: Touring St. Bernard – “New Orleans’

Most Historic Neighbor” is a parish-dedicated 12-passenger mini-bus/van operated by JPR Enterprises /dba/ St. Bernard Magazine that offers tours of the parish and its restaurants, and provides shuttle services to special events (sports events, weddings, concerts, day trips, attractions, local bayou cruises, and charter fishing camps.)

Call 504-509-7509 for more information.

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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Key to Success

by Dr. Myles Munroe

'Your Gift Will Make Room' How is the fulfillment of vision meant to work in practical terms? Proverbs 18:16 is a powerful statement that reveals the answer: "A man's gift makes room for him" (New King James Version).

What you were designed to be known for is your gift. God has put

a gift or talent in every person that the world will make room for.

It is this gift that will enable you to fulfill your vision. It will make a way for

you in life. It is in exercising this gift that you will find real fulfillment, purpose, and contentment in your work.

It is interesting to note that the Bible does not say that a man's education makes room for him, but that his gift does. Somehow we have swallowed the

idea that education is the key to success.

Our families and societies have reinforced this idea to us, but we will have to change our perspective if we are to be truly successful.

Education is not the key to success.

Don't misunderstand me. I believe in education. However, if education were the key to success, then everyone who has a Ph.D. would be financially secure and happy. If you are intelligent but are not exercising your gift, you're probably going to be poor. If you're educated but have not developed your talent, you're likely going to be depressed, frustrated, and tired.

You will hate going to work on Monday mornings. Education, in itself, doesn't guarantee anything.

It is your gift that is the key to your success.The second part of Proverbs 18:16

says, "A man's gift…brings him before great men" (NKJV). You don't realize that the gift you're sitting on is loaded. The world won't move over for you just because

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Winter Issue 2023

you're smart. However, when you exercise your gift, not only will the world make room for you, but it will also pay you for it.

Anyone - yourself included - who discovers his or her gift and develops it will become a commodity.

If you're a young person in high school or college who is planning your career,

don't do what people say will make you a lot of money. Do what you were born to do, because that is where you will make your money. No matter how big the world is, there's a place for you in it when you discover and manifest your gift. Alexander Graham Bell believed that sound could be converted into electrical impulses and transmitted by wire. No one remembers those who thought he was crazy.

We remember only the man who had the vision and created the telephone. If

you do things in a halfway manner, you can always find a job somewhere. Yet if you do just enough to get by, you are going to remain simply an employee.

However, if you decide that you're going to find something that is truly yours, then you will fulfill your vision, and you will be remembered by others.

Dr. Myles Munroe, pastor of Bahamas Faith Ministries International Fellowship, was an internationally renowned bestselling author, lecturer, teacher, life coach, government consultant, and leadership mentor. He traveled around the world training leaders in business, government, education, sports, media, and religion. He died Nov. 9, 2014 in a plane crash.

clementsins.com

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St. Bernard Parish Hospital

Giving the Gift of Health

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•

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SBPH received a “High Performing” in Procedure and Condition Award from U.S. News & World Report and inclusion in the 2023 edition of the “Great Community Hospitals” and “Top Hospitals for Patient Experience” lists by Becker's Hospital Review, a leading healthcare publication The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit watchdog that sets the standard of excellence in patient care, has awarded SBPH an “A” Hospital Safety Grade for Fall 2023

Winter Issue 2023

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The 2023-2024 academic year marked the start of a partnership between Ochsner Andrews Sports Medicine Institute and Chalmette High School

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New MRI technology, Siemens Sola MRI, is now available to patients for imaging services

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Ochsner Health is the first and only provider in Louisiana with a fully integrated cancer program based on the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center’s standards and treatment plans.

By Ochsner Health (Sponsored Content)

S

t. Bernard Parish Hospital (SBPH) proudly serves the St. Bernard community, continually evolving to meet the needs of its patients and making the community a healthier place. The best gift we can give to ourselves and our loved ones, not only this holiday season but year-round, is to take care of our physical and mental health.

“St. Bernard Parish Hospital takes great pride in caring for our community. It is a gift to provide our community members with the best resources and care to keep patients healthy and have fulfilling lives. The hospital’s investment decisions, programs and services are always made with our patients as our number one priority,” said Lani Fast, chief executive officer, St. Bernard Parish Hospital.

New imaging equipment, comprehensive care programs and new services are among Cath Lab team members the care offerings and Raymond Lubrano, improvements made Amanda Angelo, Mindy at SBPH in 2023. The Torres, and Heidi Serigne hospital maintains an open medical staff with community clinicians and has more than 40 Ochsner Health physicians and advanced care providers, and 22 specialties. SBPH provides an array of care services from cardiac catheterization, cardiopulmonary services, endoscopy, and medical imaging to surgery, speech therapy and wellness – just to name a few.

Proceeds from The Sixth Annual Red Tie Affair benefit the patients and programs of the John Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute.

SBPH Psychologist Kim Zweifler, Ph.D, Dr. Richard Zweifler, Lani Fast, and Brian Fast.

Complex Conditions Need Comprehensive Services Cardiology services, encompassing a full complement of physicians and providers, include clinic and outpatient testing, inpatient consults and cath lab procedures. To care for patients actively experiencing a heart attack, the hospital also offers emergency acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) care.

Behavioral health is essential in care delivery to the community. Available to adults and adolescents, behavioral health at SBPH is integrated and embedded in primary care. Management of chronic diseases such as diabetes is also crucial.

To properly serve diabetes patients, the care team, made up of a diabetes management nurse practitioner, certified diabetes education specialist and nutritionist and podiatrist, offers diabetes education, medication management, glucose monitoring, insulin education and nutrition consultations. Also, digital medicine enrollment is available. Patients can access health coaching for an A1C goal, support groups and foot care.

New MRI technology, Siemens Sola MRI, is now available to patients for imaging services. The MRI scanner allows for faster imaging capabilities, enhancing the ability to perform a broad range of exams. Preventative care is essential for health or treatment of serious diseases. Diagnostic services are open to the public with convenient hours even on the weekend.

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Community Partners Quality Care You Count On

Leaders from SBPH, St. Bernard Parish Emergency Management and the Fire District come together for Hurricane Preparedness meeting.

SBPH is managed by Ochsner Health, which

allows patients access to innovative care offerings through notable partnerships.

The 2023-2024 academic year marked the start of a partnership between Ochsner Andrews Sports Medicine Institute and Chalmette High School.

Ochsner provides athletic training services to Chalmette High School’s 500 student-athletes.

Students have access to orthopedics and sports medicine care, rehabilitation and therapy services at SBPH. Students requiring more advanced care have access to Ochsner Hospital for Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.

In 2022, Ochsner Health and internationally renowned orthopedic surgeon James Andrews announced a partnership to create Ochsner Andrews Chairman Ray Lauga with Sports Medicine School Board leaders.

Institute. Dr. Andrews brings his expertise and education platform, Andrews Medicine, to enhance and strengthen Ochsner’s award-winning sports medicine program and provide best-in-class care for patients and athletes across Louisiana and Mississippi. Its Athletic Training Outreach Program boasts more than 200 certified athletic trainers who work with athletes of all ages — from middle and high schools to college and professional sports teams, including athletes in the NBA and NFL.

Ochsner Health is the first and only provider in Louisiana with a fully integrated cancer program based on the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center’s standards and treatment plans. The newly created Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center provides patients in the region access to cancer treatments that are among the most advanced in the nation. Patients at SBPH have access to seven Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer facilities throughout Southeast St. Bernard Parish School Board meeting announcing partnership with Louisiana for care.

The Ochsner Andrews Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute.

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Winter Issue 2023

Community Involvement, Accolades For Employee Culture, Patient Safety At SBPH, investing back into the community

is a necessity. Many employees have given back by volunteering through service organizations including League of Angels, The Community Center, the high school mentorship program through the Women’s Professional Network, The JBStar Program for STEM experiences, and more.

The care teams and staff at SBPH are what make the hospital such a great place to grow a career.

In 2022, SBPH received the Greater New Orleans Top Workplaces award by The Times-Picayune and The New Orleans Advocate. Continually putting patients first, SBPH has received numerous accolades for its dedication to patient care and safety. SBPH received a “High Performing” in Procedure and Condition Award from U.S. News & World Report and inclusion to the 2023 edition of the “Great Community Hospitals” and “Top Hospitals for Patient Experience” lists by Becker's Hospital Review, a leading healthcare publication.

Celebrating SBPH inpatient employees for their recent national recognition for quality and patient experience.

The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit watchdog that sets the standard of excellence in patient care, has awarded SBPH with an “A” Hospital Safety Grade for Fall 2023. Receiving an “A” Safety Grade means hospitals have demonstrated a commitment to putting patients first. It is the nation’s most prestigious honor for patient safety.

This is the third consecutive year SBPH is the recipient of an “A” Hospital Safety Grade.

“It is a wonderful gift for our community that St. Bernard Parish Hospital is delivering high-quality

care at a national level while performing extremely well close to home. To work alongside my fellow administrators, physicians, and staff is also a gift, but to do so while caring for St. Bernard Parish is a privilege,” Fast said.

Tina Andrews, left, being recognized by LosIsenos_qtrpg2023.pdf 1 10/30/23 8:57 PM Ochsner Health Senior Leadership team.

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Winter Issue 2023

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Luis' Metal-Art

Masterpieces Photos by Charles Jackson

Apart from sculpting, Luis Colmenares has painted canvases and murals, welded trophies, chandeliers and wall hangings, and designed the interiors of several local restaurants. His awards include the WYES Patron Artist Auction, Contemporary Arts Center Patron of the Year, New Orleans Mayor’s Art Award, New Orleans Hispanic Heritage Foundation’s Galvez Cup and the St. Bernard Art Guild.

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Luis Colmenares sketches each sculpture before work begins.

By Mary Rickard

I

t’s typical that artist Luis Colmenares would have come up with the idea of a floral bouquet to thank healthcare workers who helped our region survive the pandemic. Over the course of a year, he and his welding crew created a 24-foottall, stainless steel and aluminum “Bouquet of Hope” that now stands on the neutral ground near East Jefferson General Hospital in Metairie.

Blooms — up to 4 feet in diameter — were painted by several collaborating artists inside his Chalmette metalwork studio.

“A lot of love went into it,” says Colmenares, whose patron Henry Shane, a real estate developer, underwrote the project. Although Shane has commissioned numerous sculptures, he calls the bouquet his “masterpiece.”

‘Very Unique’ Multimedia

Henry Shane, left, commissioned the "Bouquet of Hope" structure. At the dedication, he's joined by Jefferson Parish Councilmember-At-Large Jennifer Van Vrancken and Colmenares.

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Winter Issue 2023

Photo by Charles Jackson

Cook-off trophy displayed at Docville Farm.

Colmenares is a multimedia artist born and reared in New Orleans. His mother was a Colombian artist who learned how to make lace by observing the handiwork of Catholic nuns.

As a boy, he imitated her airbrushing artworks.

Apart from sculpting, Colmenares has painted canvases and murals, welded trophies, chandeliers and wall hangings, and designed the interiors of several local restaurants. His awards include the WYES Patron Artist Auction, Contemporary Arts Center Patron of the Year, New Orleans Mayor’s Art Award, New Orleans Hispanic

He’s just so passionate. I’ve never seen him let up. He sparks that same enthusiasm in his co-workers — although it is difficult for them to keep up with him.

– Art Collector Sidney Torres III

St. Bernard Resilience Colmenares relocated to Chalmette after Hurricane Katrina when his art studio in the Central Business District flooded.

He was able to secure a 14,000 square-foot space near the river on the outskirts of Chalmette to get started again. “This community welcomes artists with open arms,” he remembers.

“Everyone knew Luis pre-Katrina,” says art Raiza Pitre, Chef Edgar Caro, and Mayra Pineda at the Hispanic Chamber collector Sidney Torres III. ceremony with artwork by Luis Colmenares.

“He was a mentor as well as generous, providing Heritage Foundation’s Galvez Cup and the St. a space to other artists.”

Bernard Art Guild.

Torres underwrote a stainless steel sculpture depicting a vortex with a glass flower at its center The trophies Colmenares created for the 2023 that was erected at Will Power Park. The sculpture, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana Gala representing the reliance of St. Bernard, has a depict a map of Latin American nations made plaque that reads: “The wind blew, the water from cold-rolled steel. Each of the 33-inch-tall surged, will power emerged.” trophies was fashioned out of 33 pieces of steel.

After discussing the concept with Mayra Pineda, Sidney Showcases president and CEO of the chamber, Colmenares Torres exhibits several of Colmenares’ works at his came up with visual images, symbolizing each home and at Crevasse 22/River House sculpture country, then added toucans, palm trees, insects, park in Poydras. At its entrance is an 81.6 mileparrots, Incan sundials, Mayan pyramids and marker river buoy that floated ashore. Colmenares other elements. He sketched each one and used found the buoy and rolled it a mile to his studio. a plasma cutter to outline before hammering and “Luis made it a work of art,” Torres says. Now the welding the pieces onto the edges of the map.

LBD Mile 81.6 is a conversation starter for visitors to “His work is very unique,” says Pineda. These the River House. awards are something people will cherish forever.”

Torres also breeds and shows Spanish Paso Last year, Colmenares held a New York gallery Fino horses, renowned for their gait and even exhibition of imaginary insects crafted from scrap temperament. So, Colmenares was inspired metal debris left in the wake of Hurricane Ida. The to build a metal alligator-shaped bench out of show was titled: “Hurricane FOUNDations.” horseshoes.

Photo by Peter G. Forest, Forest Photography, LLC

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Top of the Chart “Luis has been a real player in conceiving the River House,” his art patron says.

Torres remembers watching Colmenares 20 years ago, sitting with his two young daughters while sketching on his art pad. Now, the elder daughter, Zoe, is a professional artist in her own right.

“I don’t think I have ever seen him lose an ounce of enthusiasm,” Torres says.

A mile marker river buoy at Torres’ River House.

“Luis is at the top of the chart.”

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Winter Issue 2023

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Happy Holidays from the Rocky & Carlo’s Family

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ST. BERNARD TRANSPORTATION CORRIDOR The Port of New Orleans is working with local, state, and federal transportation partners to support the design and construction of the St. Bernard Transportation Corridor.

Envisioned as an elevated roadway located outside the levees along the 40 Arpent Canal, the new roadway would connect Lower St. Bernard Parish to the interstate system.

This project is separate but parallel to the Louisiana International Terminal project.

The Port supports the Regional Planning Commission and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development in their efforts.

The Port is coordinating with these agencies on the early steps of the project in an effort to mitigate future potential traffic impacts and address historical needs of St. Bernard Parish residents.

Local officials and community members have envisioned a third roadway for years. The Louisiana International Terminal can help catalyze this muchneeded infrastructure.

CONCEPTUAL RENDERING

Traffic flow is key to the success of the Louisiana International Terminal and to the quality of life in St. Bernard Parish. Port NOLA is working with regional and state agencies to deliver transportation improvements when or before they are needed.

THE NEW ROADWAY WILL

HELP TO RELIEVE TRAFFIC CONGESTION THAT WOULD HAPPEN WITH OR WITHOUT THE TERMINAL

OFFER A ROUTE FOR TRUCKS

REDUCE SAFETY CONCERNS ON LOCAL ROADWAYS

SERVE AS ANOTHER HURRICANE EVACUATION ROUTE FOR RESIDENTS OF THE PARISH

ATTRACT AND KEEP NEW ECONOMIC INVESTMENTS AND INDUSTRIES

$50M ALREADY COMMITTED The Louisiana Legislature has committed $50 million for analysis, planning, and design phases.

In June of this year, the RPC awarded a contract for a study that will formally document the need for the roadway (along with other transportation improvements in St. Bernard Parish) and determine its alignment.

The road will likely be financed through a toll on cargo trucks paid to a private partner that provides up-front construction funding.

Visit our Community Connection office located at 6201 East St. Bernard Hwy. 504-528-3227

20 Winter Issue 2023

LITinfo@portnola.com

www.louisianainternationalterminal.com

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Parish Pride

Photo by Charles D. Jackson

by Barry Lemoine

Katie Tommaseo welcomes locals and visitors to the tourism office at the Aycock Barn in Old Arabi.

Katie Tommaseo

A True Tourism Ambassador W

hen she was a teenager, Katie Tommaseo was named as the “best dressed female” at Chalmette High School. Since that time, this talented, hard-working, and stylish woman has worn many hats - literally and figuratively.

Currently, she serves as executive director of Tourism & Film for St. Bernard Parish Government.

“I work diligently with community and statewide partners in promoting St. Bernard Parish and the great State of Louisiana,” she said. “Our team at the St. Bernard Office of Tourism & Film stimulates economic growth, creates job opportunities, and promotes our vibrant community.”

The history, the fishing, the food, and the fun to be had in St. Bernard Parish “make our parish a worldclass destination,” she said.

Katie said the growth of ecotourism and ongoing quality of life initiatives such as new bike paths and improved recreational facilities have aided efforts to promote the parish. Under her leadership,

22 Winter Issue 2023

there has been an increase in tourist visitations, tax revenues, and spending. She also credits St. Bernard’s local tax incentive as a catalyst for growth in the film industry here in St. Bernard.

“Since 2016, tourism has contributed $22.82 million to our local economy,” she said.

Athlete & Queen She said much of her drive can be traced to her time as a studentathlete, instilling in her the importance of teamwork and dedication. A proud graduate of Chalmette High School Class of 1995, Katie was an All-State volleyball player, a three-sport athlete, and a member of the homecoming

court. Her career as a student athlete continued at Nicholls State University where she graduated with honors, and was named as a member of the Southland Conference All-Academic Volleyball Team.

After graduating, Katie returned home, working in sales, marketing and the judicial system before finding her true passion – serving in her beloved hometown community. She has reigned as the Queen of the Irish, Italian, Islenos Parade, the Krewe of Lourdes, and the Los Islenos Fiesta. She was also a royal court member, chosen as the Goddess of Nemesis. Most recently, she was voted by the Business Professional Women’s Club as a Model Working Woman.

Samantha Meyer, left, Office of Tourism & Film, Abbey Bigner, former Miss Louisiana Crawfish Festival Queen, and Jessica Reab, St. Bernard Tourist Commission, showcase St. Bernard as part of the Louisiana tourism crew at “Float Fest” of the Rose Parade on New Year’s Day in Pasadena, CA.

Promoting the Parish

And while she’s humbled and honored and has loved each of those experiences, she said there are two other titles she holds most dear – wife and mother. Katie is married to Rocco “Rocky” Tommaseo, the family that owns and operates one of the most iconic restaurants in the metro area - Rocky and Carlo’s. The Tommaseos also are the proud parents of Nicco Tommaseo, who like his mom, is a standout athlete.

Katie is a true ambassador to St. Bernard Parish, giving of herself tirelessly. She serves as a board member for a number of organizations including the St. Bernard Tourist Commission, the Nunez Community College Foundation, the Louisiana Film & Entertainment Association, the Louisiana Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus, the St. Bernard Chamber of Commerce, and St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation.

To attract visitors nationally and regionally to St. Bernard Parish, Katie sent a staffer and the tourism commission’s chairperson to California’s Rose Parade to join Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser’s Louisiana campaign; she also runs TV spots promoting local restaurants, fishermen and festivals during sporting events.

Katie is also instrumental in planning, coordinating and supporting an array of big events and celebrations such as St. Bernard Day at the Capitol, the Battle of New Orleans, the St. Bernard Veterans Day Parade & Ceremony, the Pearl Harbor Commemoration, the Juneteenth Celebration, and Los Islenos Fiesta.

Katie poses with President Guy McInnis and festival queens, who promote the parish and their organizations around the state.

“I am proud that the Office of Tourism and Film and Tourist Commission members work together with community organizations to promote St. Bernard Parish as a destination for all people to enjoy,” she said.

23

Looking Forward Her vision is to continue bringing economic prosperity to the community that enhances the quality of life for residents and the unique experience for visitors. She also would like to see more hotels built in St. Bernard as well as a new Welcome Center on one of the parish’s main thoroughfares. “And of course, the athlete in me would love to see Nunez Community College have a sports center, a baseball field and some oncampus housing.”

Katie said she looks forward to working with a new administration and despite whatever changes or challenges lie ahead, she knows one thing will always motivate her – the people of the parish.

“What makes St. Bernard so special is the spirit of our citizens, and our citizens are what makes St. Bernard strong.”

For relentless efforts in showcasing St Bernard and for her positive energy and enthusiasm, we say thank you, Katie. Your passion and love for your community and family truly evoke Parish Pride.

Tourism Attracting Local Tax Dollars Since 2016, tourism has contributed $22.82 million to St. Bernard’s local economy, according to the Louisiana Office of Tourism and UNO Hospitality Research Center.

Since 2017, the film incentive program issued $3.3 million in qualified rebates, which were based on local expenditures totaling $9.9 million.

The St. Bernard Tourist Commission administers the 2% hotel/motel tax, and the Office of Tourism & Film administers the day-to-day operations of the tourism and film industries.

Commission members are appointed by the St. Bernard Parish Government Council. The commission supports the St. Bernard Office of

Tourism Revenue If it were not for the state and local taxes paid by tourists visiting St. Bernard Parish in 2022, each household would pay $604 MORE in taxes.

Tourism & Film in planning, personnel, advertising, sponsoring events, and promotional campaigns.

The office also manages the St. Bernard Film Incentive Program, which was created to encourage filming and economic growth by offering a 3.5% rebate on qualifying local expenses for lodging, staffing, and other production spending in the local community. A six-person panel, the Film Incentive Review Board, appointed by the council assists the office in approving rebates.

Hotel/Motel Tax Receipts The hotel tax revenue is used for advertising and marketing, promotional items, sponsoring events, participation in travel and trade shows, and supporting recreational opportunities.

2022

$4.32

2022

$203,214.45

2021

$3.77

2021

$134,420.18

2020

$2.40

2020

$77,269.96

2019

$3.19

2019

$125,272.91

2018

$3.13

2018

$112,476.58

2017

$2.83

2017

$94,290.21

2016

$3.18

2016

$62,746.64

Total: $22.82 Million Source: University of New Orleans Hospitality Research Center for the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism.

24 Winter Issue 2023

Source: St. Bernard Sheriff’s Department

Supporting Local Events The Office of Tourism & Film and the St. Bernard Tourist Commission sponsored and awarded funds to following organizations: •

Elaine P. Nunez Community College Foundation

•

St. Bernard School Board

•

St. Bernard Economic Foundation

•

Start Up St. Bernard

•

St. Bernard Chamber of Commerce

•

Tour Da Parish

•

The Battle of New Orleans

•

Friends of the Battle of New Orleans

•

Knights of Nemesis Hook a Kid Fishing Rodeo & Mardi Gras Parade

•

Los Islenos Fiesta

•

Louisiana Crawfish Festival & Pageant

•

Our Lady of Prompt Succor Tomato Festival & Pageant

•

Irish, Italian, Islenos Parade

•

Bird Festival

•

Blues, Brews & BBQ, Community Center of St. Bernard

•

Sugar Festival, Old Arabi Neighborhood Association

Photo by Barry Lemoine Parish Historian Bill Hyland, Gulf Coast Bank Branch Manager Dawn Russell, trolley driver Sylvester Daniel and Katie Tommaseo offer tours of Old Arabi every year at the Sugar Fest.

•

Battle for the Bayou

•

Italian American Fishing Rodeo

•

LFEA Film Day at the Capitol

•

Power Pole Pro Redfish Series

•

Daughters of the British Empire

•

Daughters of 1812

•

LSU AG Magic

•

Society of 1812

•

St. Bernard Day at the Capitol

•

New Orleans Track Club

•

The National Park Service

•

St. Bernard Sheriff’s Department

•

Hurricane Katrina Ceremony

•

Juneteenth Celebration

•

Los Islenos Museum Days

•

The First Lady Easter Egg Hunt

•

Christmas at the Complex

•

Los Islenos Christmas Bonfire

•

Pearl Harbor Commemoration

•

Veterans Day Parade & Ceremony

•

St. Bernard Sports Hall of Fame

•

St. Bernard Seafood Market

•

Battle of Lake Borgne Ceremony

•

St. Bernard Salutes America

to and passion for the Parish and its

•

Tournament of Roses Parade

performing arts have earned him the

•

Cook-Off for the Coast

•

USAW Louisiana State Meet

Katie Tommaseo with Congressman Troy Carter at Film Day at the Louisiana Capitol.

Barry Lemoine is an award-winning writer and educator. His commitment

moniker of “The Bard of St. Bernard.”

25

History Impacts Tourism

St. Bernard Parish Government

Los Isleños Museum Complex

N

estled among live oaks on Bayou Road sits the cultural and historical gem of St. Bernard Parish – Los Isleños Museum Complex, 1345-1357 Bayou Road, St. Bernard, which draws thousands to its grounds each year.

the history and cultural diversity of St. Bernard.

St. Bernard Parish Historian Bill Hyland, site He works with educators throughout the manager for the complex, is dedicated to region, highlighting the diverse heritage and preserving, interpreting and disseminating the cultural legacies of this history of St. Bernard community. Hyland Parish through Parish Historian/Museum Complex advises St. Bernard documenting the residents on local Canary Islanders who Use/Visitation Report 2016-2023 history research, as founded St. Bernard • 2020 19,499 visitors • 2016: 45,000 visitors well as oversees the and the evolution of Fiesta 15,000 Fiesta 15,000 management and the Canary Islanders’ • 2021 19,254 visitors • 2017 46,000 visitors development of Los descendants’ No Fiesta Fiesta 13,000 Isleños Museum Complex, community through • 2022 30,115 visitors • 2018 42,000 visitors Fiesta 11,000 Fiesta 15,000 including maintenance their interaction with • 2023 38,100 visitors • 2019 45,000 visitors issues and restoration/ Native Americans, other Fiesta 15,000 Fiesta 11,000 repairs. He’s responsible western European for interpretive programs colonists, enslaved Total In Eight Years: 284,968 visitors presenting the history of Africans, free people of St. Bernard Parish and color, Filipinos and later coordinates efforts of Los Isleños Heritage and immigrants such as Sicilian Italians who populated Cultural Society in its mission of supporting the St. Bernard Parish. museum complex, which is owned by the Hyland is responsible for researching, preserving, St. Bernard Parish government. interpreting and disseminating to the public

26 Winter Issue 2023

Museum & Historian Projects, Progress Maintenance and Improvements Coordination of maintenance on 11 permanent structures, a nature trail and 22 acres of property.

Resources are provided by the parish government, Los Isleños Society and the 34th Judicial District Community Service Program.

Public Presentations Since 2016, the parish historian has addressed more than 100 A group from the Canary Islands performs at Los Isleños Fiesta. meetings and participated in symposiums throughout the Interpretive/Educational region. Presentations were made Programs to the Surveyors Historical Los Isleños Fiesta, conducted Society’s annually in March; Museum Days, international exposing St. Bernard Parish’s conference in students to the cultural heritage New Orleans of the community; weekly (2018); the quilting classes that are free of Battle of charge for parish residents; St. 18th-century cottages and other structures at the New Orleans Bernard Parish Birding Festival museum complex.

Historical in May; Philippine Heritage Symposium, Month in October; Tasso Time, Public Outreach Programs 2016 to present, with additional the Houma/Choctaw Native effort in helping to organize the Los Isleños Christmas; Santa American elders’ program symposium and history lecture on the Bayou; Tour da Parish in March or April. Since 2019, series; the Louisiana Historical (in support of the St. Bernard the parish historian has Chamber of Commerce); grounds and Genealogical Society, participated in coordinating the available 365 days for self-touring history of the Canary Islanders Nunez Community College’s in Louisiana (Baton Rouge, and family photography; public History Lecture Series and the 2018); Villere 300, a conference walking, jogging and bicycling; annual Battle of New Orleans about the quintessential colonial other programs as suggested Symposium.

French Villere family (Villere by community organizations, reviewed and approved by parish Foundation; Historic New Orleans Collection, 2018); Sociedad government and the Los Isleños Espanola, 2016 to present, Heritage and Cultural Society; multiple presentations about town hall meetings for eastern Spanish Colonial Louisiana; tours St. Bernard Parish; meetings to of historic sites and communities benefit commercial fisheries for The Historic New Orleans interests and sports fishing Collection during its annual tourism interests; periodic Antiques Forum, 2016 – 2019 (the meetings of the LSU Cooperative forum was suspended in 2020 Extension Service. because of COVID-19 and but has Tony Fernandez directs returned in a different form since the Santa on the Bayou toy 2022); dozens of presentations giveaway planned for Dec. 9 in St. Bernard Parish schools, this year.

Photos by Farrah Ross Appleman and Charles Jackson

27

Videos About St. Bernard Parish History

Hyland shares his research with Albert J. Robichaux, Jr., a distinguished genealogist/historian and prolific writer who has conducted primary resource research in local, national and international archives about the German colonists of the German Coast, the Acadians and Islenos.

and Sacred Heart Academy; Jefferson Parish public and parochial schools; St. Tammany Parish schools; Holy Cross High School; the Congregation of First Baptist Church in Verrettville, 2018, 2020, 2022; the Francois Delery Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution; the Chalmette Chapter of the Daughters of 1812; the Vieux Carre Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution; the Tour Guides Association of Greater New Orleans; Beauregard Camp Sons of Confederate Veterans; annual field trips to New Orleans for Chalmette High School students; driving tours of Old Arabi during the Arabi Sugar Fest, 2016 – present except during COVID-19.

research contributed by Tony Fernandez and the parish historian; Fazendeville, 2021, state of Louisiana historical marker funded by the St. Bernard Parish Tourist Commission; St. Bernard Catholic Cemetery marker, 2018, designed by Tony Fernandez and subsidized partially by the St. Bernard Parish Tourist Commission; Spanish Influenza Mass Burial Marker, 2020, designed by Tony Fernandez with research by Fernandez and the parish historian, subsidized by the St. Bernard Parish Tourist Commission; First Baptist Church of Verrettville’s Founders’ Cemetery, 2022, researched by Fernandez and the parish historian subsidized with funding from the St. Bernard Historical Markers Parish Tourist Commission; Researched St. Malo, 2019, state historic First Baptist Church of Verrettville, marker funded by the Philippine 2017, state of Louisiana historical Louisiana Historical Society with marker funded by the St. Bernard research by Randy Gonzalez, Parish Tourist Commission with PhD, and assistance/support from the parish historian; monument to Canary Islander founders of St. Bernard Parish, 2019, gift of the Government of the Canary Islands made of Canarian volcanic stone, approximately 18 feet high, carved in Gran Canaria at the request of Fernandez, the Isleño Society and the Parish Hhistorian.

28 Winter Issue 2023

Driving tour of Old Arabi, 2018; The Denis de La Ronde Historic Site, 2019; Louis A. Ducros, MD, 2020; The St. Bernard Church and Catholic Cemetery, 2020, with Tony Fernandez; The First Baptist Church of Verrettville, cemetery and community, with the Rev. Raymond Smith and Fernandez, 2020; Ignace Francois Delino de Chalmette, namesake of the Chalmette Community, currently in production.

Touring Museum Exhibitions Outreach In 2018-19, the first-ever exhibition about Canary Islanders to tour Louisiana museums was funded by the St. Bernard Parish Tourist Commission, and the Friends of the Cabildo. The exhibition opened in the New Orleans Cabildo in December 2018, and moved to Baton Rouge’s Capitol Park Museum in September 2019. Both museums are part of the Louisiana State Museum System. More than 50,000 visitors viewed the exhibitions in New Orleans and in Baton Rouge.

Parish Historian/Museum Site Manager Bill Hyland explains St. Bernard’s Islenos heritage and culture to a visitor on Great Delta Tours.

Parish Historian Awards

St. Bernard Middle School band performs at Los Islenos Christmas Celebration. This year’s event starts at 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, with a crowd-favorite bonfire closing the show at sunset.

2016 – Chalmette High School Band, for support 2007 – 2016; 2017 – 2018 Outstanding School Volunteer for Chalmette High School, St. Bernard Parish School Board; 2018 – Sociedad Espanola – honorary life member; 2019 – Golden Tele Award, Denis de La Ronde Historic Site, an international award; 2022 – Honorary Citizen of the Republic of the Philippines, awarded by the Honorary Consulate of the Republic of the Philippines, New Orleans; 2023 – People to Watch, New Orleans Magazine; 2023 – Nunez Community Spirit of Nunez Award.

Tours to Los Isleños Museum Complex, The Don Robin Wharf in Yscloskey Since 2019, Great Delta Tours has brought more than 70 regular tour groups from The American Queen, a luxury vessel that tours the Mississippi River corridor from New Orleans to Memphis, Tennessee. Tour attendance ranged from 15 to 42 people. The parish historian guides each group through three of the historic structures in the complex, then the tour of the museum complex concludes with lunch catered by St. Bernard-based restaurants. After leaving Los Isleños Museum Complex, Don Robin meets the group at his family oyster processing plant, serves prepared oysters and explains oyster fisheries and commercial fishing in general. Robin’s family helped to found Los Isleños Museum Complex and the Isleño Society. Barbara Johnson, owner of Great Delta Tours, is the first tour company owner to bring tours into St. Bernard beyond the Chalmette Battlefield. From 1967 to 2019, St. Bernard officials tried numerous times to bring regular tours to this parish unsuccessfully. Very recently, The American Countess has begun to tour the museum complex with lunch and a tour at the Robin family's Yscloskey facility. Johnson and Robin have proven to be excellent partners and deserve recognition for finally realizing this previously elusive objective.

Officers of Los Islenos Heritage and Cultural Society of St. Bernard during installation dinner in October.

BayouUrgentCare_Dec2023.pdf

1

11/2/23

6:40 PM

From Our Family to Yours Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Press Interviews, Publications Since 2016, the parish historian has given interviews on local and regional television shows and in newspapers, international newspapers and journals about the history and diverse cultural heritage of St. Bernard Parish. He is a regular contributor to St. Bernard Magazine with articles about St. Bernard history.

Drs. Kerissa and Greg Fernandez & Children

Community, Compassion, Convenience

901 W. Judge Perez Dr. • Chalmette 504-309-9805 • www.bayouurgentcare.com 29

Set the Stage

in Historic Saint Bernard Parish

Book your next event in Historic St. Bernard Parish. Venues include the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center, the Historic St. Bernard Parish Courthouse, Val Riess Sports Hall of Fame Complex, and the Aycock Barn.

Call Maurine Liuzza at 504-278-1506 or email at Mliuzza@sbpg.net to book your event today.

tourist commission

For information on accommodations, attractions or other details go to www.sbpg.net or www.visitstbernard.com 30 Winter Issue 2023

31

Meraux Foundation Fostering Collaboration, Creating Coastal Resilience

In the face of the monumental challenge of coastal land loss, it is vital that we come together to address this issue.

- Rita Gue, Meraux Foundation President

By Meraux Foundation

I

n the fragile embrace of Louisiana's receding coastline, the Meraux Foundation is helping lead the charge against one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

The nonprofit board’s unwavering dedication to preserving and restoring our coast is a testament to their vision for a sustainable future. Through a broad network of partnerships and innovative programs, the Meraux Foundation is building land, and with it, a more resilient St. Bernard Parish.

The coastal crisis in Louisiana is undeniable, with the ever-shrinking wetlands posing a serious threat to both our environment and the area’s cultural heritage and economic stability. Rita Gue, president of the Meraux Foundation, underscores the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the

need for collective action. "In the face of the monumental challenge of coastal land loss, it is vital that we come together to address this issue,” she said.

Meraux Foundation Coastal and Environmental Program Manager Blaise Pezold, right, and Max Haines plant native trees as part of an effort to reforest the Central Wetlands in St. Bernard Parish.

Coastal Content Presented by the Meraux Foundation

32 Winter Issue 2023

Reforesting the Central Wetlands From a meeting of like-minded organizations convened by the Meraux Foundation a couple of years back emerged the Central Wetlands Reforestation Collective. The group comprises a network of partners, including the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL), Common Ground Relief, the Lower 9th Ward Center for Sustainable Engagement & Development, the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, Pontchartrain Conservancy, and the Meraux Foundation. This was inspired by the foundational work of the St. Bernard Wetlands Foundation The collective is focused on reforesting the Central Wetlands, which stretches from the 9th Ward to Verret. Much land in this area has disappeared over decades due largely to the Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet (MR-GO) and a web of canals that upset the natural balance that kept the ecosystem alive and flourishing. With the MR-GO now closed and to undo the damage, collective members are strategically building islands, planting native trees and grasses, and creating barriers to stop erosion.

This restoration not only revitalizes critical habitats but also mitigates storm surge impact and enhances water quality.

The Meraux Foundation's dedication extends beyond the Central Wetlands. It is also involved in multiple projects under the Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection, and Restoration Act of 1990 (CWPPRA) that have been designed to rejuvenate Louisiana's coastal ecosystems. These projects address erosion, habitat deterioration, and the urgent need for reforestation.

Additionally, the foundation has been hosting the CWPPRA stakeholder meetings for Breton and Pontchartrain basins for six years.

Diverse Partners in ‘Big Tent’ At the heart of the Meraux Foundation's coastal conservation is collaboration. As a convener of various coastal and environmental organizations, the foundation adopts a "big tent" approach, uniting diverse partners who share common goals and interests.

Blaise Pezold, the foundation's coastal and environmental program director, explains, "We believe that coastal restoration is a collective effort, and by partnering with other organizations, we

A group led by the Meraux Foundation, Delacroix Corp., Common Ground Relief, and CSED planting Giant Cutgrass on 40 Arpent Wetland terraces.

can achieve much more than acting alone. Our 'big tent' approach involves bringing together a diverse range of partners, from environmental organizations to local businesses, schools, and government agencies. This collective effort amplifies the impact of each organization, making a tangible difference in the fight to safeguard the precious Louisiana coastline."

The Meraux Foundation has also channeled its efforts into innovative programs aimed at educating and empowering the local community to actively participate in coastal restoration. From planting marsh grass to participating in cleanup initiatives, the foundation cultivates a sense of stewardship among residents, fostering a more resilient and united community.

Cook-Off for the Coast A signature way the Meraux Foundation and its partners are helping engage the community in coastal protection is through the annual "CookOff for the Coast" at Docville Farm; the next one is on February 24, 2024. It is hosted by the Meraux Foundation, Vanishing Paradise, and Restore the Mississippi Delta in partnership with St. Bernard Parish Coastal Division, St. Bernard Parish Tourism, and Nunez Community College.

As the Meraux Foundation continues to forge new partnerships and implement innovative programs, its pivotal role in combating coastal land loss and nurturing a united community cannot be overstated. With a vision for a resilient and vibrant Louisiana coast, the Meraux Foundation is authoring a compelling story of hope and determination, one that promises a brighter future for all.

Coastal Content Presented by the Meraux Foundation

33

Cook-Off for the Coast: A Flavorful Festival with a Purpose

E

very year, St. Bernard plays host to a remarkable culinary and musical spectacle that is as delicious as it is essential. The CookOff for the Coast is a celebration of the region’s vibrant culture, showcasing a rich culinary tradition while raising awareness about the pressing issue of coastal land loss - and it’s free to attend! This year, mark your calendars for Feb. 24, 2024, and make your way to the Meraux Foundation’s Docville Farm in Violet for an unforgettable experience.

Cook-Off for the Coast is hosted by the Meraux Foundation, Vanishing Paradise, and Restore the Mississippi Delta in partnership with St. Bernard Parish Coastal Division, St. Bernard Parish Tourism, and Nunez Community College.

The Cook-Off for the Coast is more than a festival; it's a call to action. Join us on Feb. 24, 2024, at Docville Farm and savor the flavors of Louisiana while making a difference in the fight for our coastal future.

Try out tasty dishes prepared by local cooking teams, each serving up their best recipes for cooking up the bounty our wetlands provides.

They’ll be competing for a chance to be crowned cook-off winner. You can be a part of the action by voting for your favorite dishes. And if you're in the mood for a drink, quench your thirst at the cash bar.

You'll groove to the beats of local bands that'll keep you dancing all day long. In February, enjoy the tunes of the Michot’s Melody Makers, meet local organizations working on coastal restoration projects, and enjoy various kids' activities.

The Who, What, When, and Where:

The heart of this event lies in its mission to restore Louisiana’s vanishing coast. The Cook-Off for the Coast raised over $16,000 for restoration initiatives in 2023. This year’s event will support Nunez Community College’s Coastal Studies and GIS Technology program and the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana’s Oyster Shell Recycling Program.

Date: February 24, 2024 Location: Docville Farm, 5124 E. Saint Bernard Hwy, Violet, LA Admission: Free – it's a familyfriendly event you won't want to miss!

Coastal Content Presented by the Meraux Foundation

34 Winter Issue 2023

Shuck Yeah!

Oyster Recycling Creates Habitat

The reefs grow new oysters, slow the rate of erosion by up to 50%, create habitat for numerous other species and help minimize storm surge during hurricanes.

By Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana

W

e love our oysters in south Louisiana, but did you know that much of the shells pulled from the water is squandered in landfills? That’s a shame, because returning shells to the water has numerous benefits, including supporting the oyster industry by creating habitat for new oysters to grow.

The Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana seeks to correct that problem with its Oyster Shells Recycling Program. Through the program, restaurants in the New Orleans area collect their shell and a contractor delivers it to CRCL’s Restoration Headquarters in Violet. The shell cures in the sun for a few months and then is returned to the water by volunteers and community partners who build oyster reefs. The reefs grow new oysters, slow the rate of erosion by up to 50%, create habitat for numerous other species and help minimize storm surge during hurricanes.

CRCL’s Oyster Shell Recycling Program is one of the largest in the nation. It has recycled more than

14 million pounds of oyster shells since 2014. The program partners with more than 30 restaurants and has three shell drop-off locations, but it’s always looking to add more restaurant partners. (A tax credit for restaurants that recycle their shells takes effect Jan. 1.)

CRCL partners with the Meraux Foundation on both its Oyster Shell Recycling Program and its Native Plants Program. The programs offer numerous ways for residents to get involved in helping to restore Louisiana’s coast. You can volunteer to prepare shells to be returned to the water; to travel by boat to an oyster reef site and then participate in a reef build; and to plant bald cypress trees in the Central Wetlands to rebuild the forest that once stood there.

CRCL was the first statewide nonprofit dedicated to fighting coastal land loss in Louisiana. Its mission is to unite people in action to achieve a thriving, sustainable Louisiana coast for all. You can find out more at crcl.org.

Coastal Content Presented by the Meraux Foundation

35

Restoring St. Bernard's

Sportsman's Paradise St. Bernard is a key part of our state’s identity as a Sportsman’s Paradise. We must continue to make coastal restoration a priority to ensure that future generations can enjoy all that ’Da Parish has to offer, too.

Matthew Waguespack, sportsman outreach coordinator for National Wildlife Federation’s Vanishing Paradise, and Jared Serigné, St. Bernard native and producer for Outside the Levees, on a recent hunt in St. Bernard.

By Vanishing Paradise/National Wildlife Federation

The area between Chalmette and the Chandeleur Islands is well-known for its abundant wildlife, including some favorite species of local sportsmen. This extensive landscape in St. Bernard is connected by a rich cultural heritage that continues to attract sportsmen from near and far, labeling it as a true Sportsman's Paradise.

Like many other places on Louisiana’s coast, this area continues to face a land loss crisis head on.

Disappearing coastal wetlands decrease vital storm protection for local communities, who depend on the wetlands not just for food and recreation, but as a storm surge buffer. And as this land vanishes, so does crucial fish and wildlife habitat, leading to population decline.

Making Restoration a Reality Vanishing Paradise, a program of the National Wildlife Federation, works to ensure the long-term survival of Louisiana as a sportsman’s paradise. We collaborate with local and national organizations to make restoration a reality. In St. Bernard, that includes working with Ducks Unlimited, the Meraux Foundation, and other partners on the construction of marsh terraces in the Central Wetlands. The once-thriving habitat has faced many challenges over the decades, especially due to the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet, which impacted more than one million acres of coastal habitat in the greater New Orleans area, including habitat many migratory waterfowl depend on for wintering or stopover ground.

The Central Wetlands terraces, coupled with volunteer plantings in the area, are already resulting in new vegetation, creating a food source and nursery ground for many species sportsmen love.

St. Bernard is a key part of our state’s identity as a Sportsman’s Paradise. We must continue to make coastal restoration a priority to ensure that future generations can enjoy all that ’Da Parish has to offer, too.

Coastal Content Presented by the Meraux Foundation

36 Winter Issue 2023

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1

10/26/23

6:37 PM

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DTS Direct Appliance Showroom

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Open Monday-Friday 9 AM – 4 PM

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Call for an Appointment 37

Louisiana International Terminal: Delivering Opportunity Sponsored Content The proposed Louisiana International Terminal

The project is anticipated to create 4,339

in Violet will serve the newest and most modern

direct and indirect jobs in St. Bernard Parish

vessels in international trade, providing the goods

by 2050,according to projections in a recently

that support Louisiana's residents and businesses.

updatedeconomic study completed by a Louisiana

It is also expected to add significant economic

State University researcher. These are family-

opportunity for St. Bernard Parish. With the

supporting jobs, ranging from skilled labor to

terminal and its related businesses, St. Bernard

engineers, from longshoremen to welders, and

Parish stands to gain thousands of jobs and

many more positions.

millions of tax dollars each year.

Workforce Development St. Bernard residents will need time and training to be ready for many of the careers that come along with the terminal. That's why we are working with organizations like the International Longshoreman's Association (ILA), as well as industry, vocational, and educational partners to prepare pathways for the construction, logistics, and maritime sectors.

In search of a job now? Scan the QR code for our hiring resources.

38 Winter Issue 2023

Business Opportunity In addition to a strong workforce, local and small businesses are a critical part of creating economic vitality in the region. Port NOLA aims to increase our spend with local and small businesses in construction, professional services, and for goods and general services.

Our Small Business Contracting Program builds relationships with local and small businesses, including minority-owned businesses, women-owned businesses, disadvantaged firms and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses. Last year, Port

Looking for procurement

NOLA spent $20 million with SBE/DBE-owned

opportunities?

businesses.

Scan the QR code.

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39

Celebrating Each Other CHS Cultural Arts Center

Photos by Christy Cusimano

The Chalmette High School Voices in the closing act of “Anything Goes’’ at Chalmette High School last spring. Performances often draw a full house.

This group of young people with deep talent and complex skills, have formed a spiritual family that is emerging into a long-term and powerful performance ensemble.

– Charles Cassar, Cultural Arts Director

By Mary Rickard

B

esides being one of the most ambitious cultural arts programs in Louisiana, from training in music, dance and acting, to skills in staging and tech, Chalmette Cultural Arts Center nurtures and supports local students in myriad ways. Charles Cassar, the parish schools’ cultural arts director, says his mission is to give young people opportunities to be celebrated and to have fun.

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The Cultural Arts Center provides numerous programs in elementary, middle and high schools for that to happen. In the past year, the center has mounted three musical theater productions, “Anastasia,” “Anything Goes” and “1776.” It held two dance recitals, choral and instrumental concerts, and a three-hour holiday show, bringing all the performing arts together. Chalmette’s first annual Christmas variety show more than 30 years ago — “Celebrating Community Christmas” — was an “extravaganza,” he recalled.

Chalmette High School’s $28.7 million, 420-seat auditorium with proscenium stage and orchestra pit has enabled multiple activities to flourish, with two dance studios, a choral room, two practice rooms, soundproof instrumental ensemble room with recording system and some of the best sound and lighting equipment in Louisiana.

Devin Cruice portrays the governor of South Carolina in "1776."

Last summer's “1776,” underwritten by the Meraux Foundation, was particularly ambitious, requiring 35 actors to not only memorize and passionately deliver their lines onstage, but to grasp the complex revolutionary ideals that led to writing the Declaration of Independence.

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Now a Loyola University senior studying journalism, Cruice credits performing for developing his selfconfidence. “It puts a certain amount of grit in me that contributes to every aspect of my life,” he said. As one example, Cruice interviewed residents of Arabi whose homes were destroyed by the tornadoes. His college news reports earned recognition in the Hearst Student Journalism Awards.

Daniel Barber, a.k.a, Benjamin Franklin in “1776”, has performed in 10 productions.

Performing Boosts Confidence Devin Cruice, 20, who portrayed the character Edward Rutledge, governor of South Carolina, said: “I felt it was like a piece of history I was performing.” In history classes, students studied the founding fathers, learning about their individual political positions through culturally and historically significant research and extensive discussion. Actors would sit in a circle, imitating the delegates to the Continental Congress, debating disagreements and drawing comparisons to current events.

“Everybody in the program wants this to be good, not only for St. Bernard, but for each other,” said Cruice, who counts cast members as his closest friends. Daniel Barber, a.k.a. Benjamin Franklin, has participated in 10 shows.

Students of All Ages The center has an unofficial mentorship routine so veteran high schoolers routinely take younger children under their wings. Many performers have literally grown up in the program. Acting and singing the role of Abigail Adams, Abigail Coker was first cast in “Shrek The Musical,” as a fourthgrader. Zaylee Wolfe, playing Martha Jefferson, had her stage debut in “The Little Mermaid” in second grade.

41

Tedesco. Overall artistic direction is led by her sister Arianna Cassar-Cruice.

“This group of young people with deep talent and complex skills have formed a spiritual family that is emerging into a long-term and powerful performance ensemble,” Cassar said.

Although Cruice is on his way to a career in broadcasting, he said he will never stop doing theater. “It’s about looking inward, not outward.

That is what theater gave me.”

Ava Volante with Emma Jo Tassin in "Anastasia."

A volunteer set construction crew, including master carpenter Keith “Leonardo” Black, Rudy Abadie, David Cox, and Christine Delaune, generally come together a month ahead to design and build the sets with the help of students from the high school’s tech program.

Even more students get involved by designing costumes and scenery, attending wigs and makeup, staging choreography, as well as tuning up in a full orchestra conducted by Annelise Cassar

“Everybody in the program wants this to be good, not only for St. Bernard, but for each other.”

- Devin Cruice

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44 Gifts for Kids 46 Gifts for Her 48 Gifts for Him 50 Christmas Tree Cupcakes

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Gifts

FOR KIDS

By Dina Zelden

Check out our list of gifts that are sure to please all the kids on your list!

Crazy Forts provides endless creative play for all ages. Simply connect the balls and sticks to create anything from castles, to spaceships, and more. There’s even a glow-in-the-dark version.

The Moon Lamp comes with a rechargeable remote control, 16 different light colors, as well as a wooden base. A timer and brightness settings make this the perfect start to a great night’s sleep.

Crayola Light Up Tracing Pad comes with 100 mix-and-match images which are easy to trace, thanks to back lighting. It comes with a graphite pencil, 12 colored pencils, 10 tracing sheets and 10 blank sheets.

44 Winter Issue 2023

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Let her chill out with this VOCHILL WINE GLASS CHILLER. It will keep her wine cold for over an hour indoors and fits glasses in a variety

46 Winter Issue 2023

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48 Winter Issue 2023

Any coffee lover on your list will appreciate this WACACO MINIPRESSO PORTABLE ESPRESSO MACHINE. Sleek, lightweight and easy to use, this gift will provide the perfect cup of coffee at the office or on-the-go.

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50 Winter Issue 2023

Ask a Doctor

by Catherine Bridges, DNP

Taking Care Of Your Mental Health According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 12.5% of adults 18 years and older have regular feelings of worry, nervousness or anxiety, and about 1 in 25 U.S. adults live with a serious mental illness including depression.

By practicing mental health wellness strategies and self-care, symptoms can be managed.

Physical activity helps your body, brain and emotions. Exercise can be as simple as a daily walk.

Social time with family and friends can also help.

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Identify Signs Keeping a daily routine can help regulate emotions. Try to identify signals that help determine when you are feeling sad, angry or even stressed. Reframing negative thoughts may bring a sense of calm and perspective.

It is always okay to reach out for help. If you are feeling overwhelmed, contact your physician.

Reaching out for help is a strength.

Catherine Bridges, DNP, specializes in psychiatry at Ochsner Health Center – St. Bernard. To schedule an appointment with Catherine Bridges, DNP, visit www. ochsner.org or call 504-304-2800.

51

Old Arabi History 1st of 3-Part Series

By William de Marigny Hyland, St. Bernard Parish Historian Photos by Charles D. Jackson

Former St. Bernard Voice newspaper building on Mehle Avenue is site of the Parish’s first business district, Stock Landing.

52 Winter Issue 2023

Slaughterhouses Beefed Up Small Village Marie Marthe Chauvin de Vince in 1800. Antoine Bienvenu and Marie Marthe Chauvin de Vince were the progenitors of a large family of sugar planters, elected officials and leaders who spread throughout southern Louisiana in the 19th century.

Shortly after the Civil War, several property owners in that section of New Orleans situated between Jackson Barracks and Fishermen’s Canal (the 1817 boundary of St. Bernard and New Orleans), roughly present-day Aycock Street, subdivided large tracts of land for residential and commercial development.

Landmark Case

A monument in the neutral ground of St. Bernard Highway in Arabi proclaims Sebastien Roy “Father of the Good Roads in St. Bernard Parish.” The Roy family patriarch, Frederick Sr., founded what is today’s oldest business in the parish, St. Bernard Voice Newspaper.

The Crescent City Live-Stock Landing and Slaughterhouse Company state-created monopoly, based in Arabi, became the principal object in the U.S. Supreme Court 1873 “Slaughterhouse Cases,” which figured in legally defining monopolies.

French Founding In 1721, Henri Le Blanc de La Croix received a land grant from the French government extending from Mehle Avenue to the Chalmette Slip. He was appointed Keeper of the Royal Warehouses of the King in Louisiana.

Le Blanc was an absentee land holder who appears never to have been domiciled on this parcel of land. Pierre Rigaud de Vaudreuil, a later governor of French colonial Louisiana, acquired the tract and developed it as an indigo plantation, growing purple dye, the state’s first large-scale economic crop.

The Marquis de Vaudreuil sold the property to Antoine Bienvenu in 1749 and the Bienvenu heirs subdivided the tract after the death of his widow,

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In 1869, the Louisiana Stock Dealers and Butchers Association of New Orleans located

its plant on a parcel of property bisected by the Orleans-St. Bernard parish boundary line. Because health ordinances adopted by the City of New Orleans prohibited slaughterhouses within the corporate limits of Orleans Parish, the Louisiana Legislature adopted legislation which moved the western boundary of St. Bernard to the downriver property line of Jackson Barracks in 1875. The western boundary line designated in the 1875 legislation still remains intact.

The Naming of Arabi

Italianate architecture on Angela Street in Old Arabi.

Current Arabi Post Office on Mehle Avenue.

A small village —Stockyard Landing— evolved around the slaughterhouse in the 1870s and 1880s which derived its unpretentious place name from the livestock landing associated with the slaughterhouse. In 1882, the Arabi Post Office was established on North Peters Street in a building owned by the Slaughterhouse Company. A public contest in the area to be served by the facility was held to select a name for the post office. The 1882 revolt of Arabi Pasha in Egypt was highly publicized throughout Europe and the United States during that time. Because of the antiBritish sentiment still prevalent in St. Bernard, the winning name in the contest was Arabi, replacing Stock Landing as the name of the village sometime in the very early 1900s. The name Stock Landing appears to have been completely discarded in the 1920s. Many quaint Eastlake, Italianate and other style buildings line the streets of Arabi today.

The Crescent City Live-Stock Landing and Slaughterhouse Company purchased a complex of wooden buildings as its first east bank facility in 1871 from the Louisiana Stock Dealers and Butchers Association of New Orleans. In 1896,

54 Winter Issue 2023

these structures were largely replaced with a brick masonry multi-storied buttressed Gothic Revival building facing Esteban Street and visible from North Peters Street.

‘Stench is Economic Lifeblood’ The Slaughterhouse Company infused money and brought about development to St. Bernard, which was still reeling from the Civil War and Reconstruction. The “Blood Canal” was an unpleasant, stinking result of the slaughterhouse in St. Bernard. The canal ran toward the wetlands from the slaughtering floor and drained away the blood of butchered animals. Marion Roy Ducros once remarked to her father, William Frederick Roy, that the stench from the canal was unbearable.

His response was “that stench is the economic lifeblood of this community” and nothing more was uttered.

The two-story masonry building which stood at the corner of North Peters and Esteban Streets was originally two one-story structures. These buildings became the home of the first locally owned bank in St. Bernard Parish, the St. Bernard Bank, founded in 1905 by a group of local businessmen led by Joseph Maumus. A small one-story structure

implemented. The deterioration of the complex continued until 1992, when a water spout from the Mississippi River touched down on Esteban Street and obliterated the ruins of the slaughterhouse complex. The site remains largely undeveloped today.

The Crescent City Live-Stock Landing and Slaughterhouse Company obtained a monopoly on all slaughtered beef and swine from the Louisiana Legislature during Reconstruction and became the principal object in the U.S. Supreme Court “Slaughterhouse Cases,” which figured in legally defining monopolies.

Series Part 2: Spring 2024 Remnants of the "Blood Canal" on Royal Street between Esteban and Aycock streets.

Old Arabi Historic Districts

facing North Peters Street, also masonry, adjoining the bank building, served as the first Arabi Post Office.

William de Marigny Hyland is the

This complex of buildings was purchased by a developer in the 1980s planning to restore the entire complex. A fire ravaged the structures in 1983 and restoration plans were never

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55

Paddling the Parish

by David Rudlow

Shoreline Fishing

Cold Snap Can Spark A Redfish Jubilee

L

ouisiana's mild winters have most anglers from northern states green with envy, but the coldest parts of winter are when many local anglers get fishing fever; it’s time for a redfish jubilee. A redfish jubilee is when large schools of redfish congregate in deeper water due to cold weather. Let’s take look at why this happens, and what you’ll need to know to get in on the action.

Extreme cold snaps make redfish uncomfortable and they move to the deepest water they can find, grouping up to stay warm. This can lead to massive schools of redfish that are readily accessible from the banks throughout St. Bernard. This generally takes place when air temperatures drop into the 30s for more than two nights, coinciding with below average tides. When locating the fish, look for water that’s 10 feet or deeper.

Areas around the bridge leading to Shell Beach, and the deeper waters farther down the road into Delacroix are generally the most productive, as well as the most crowded. The redfish jubilee is well known, and often draws large crowds. There aren’t many times you can pull up to the bank and have a limit of redfish in an hour. You need to be prepared for shoulder-to-shoulder fishing unless you have a kayak or boat and can escape the crowds.

How To Catch Now that you know when and where the jubilee will take place, let’s take a quick look at how to catch them. You’ll want medium light to medium heavy spinning gear, spooled with 20-30-pound braid. Casting jigs or other lures can be effective, but is more likely to lead to tangles if you’re fishing in a crowd. In this situation, I lean toward soaking bait like shrimp or smaller crabs. A Carolina rig using *just* enough weight to hold the bottom and a 1/0 circle hook are ideal.

56 Winter Issue 2023

Don’t forget, Photo by circle hooks Kenny are designed Desselle to prevent Sr. gut hooking, and need to be fished differently than J-hooks. Circle hooks slide through the fish's mouth and get caught in the corner, rather than sticking in on the hook set.

When baiting, it’s imperative to leave space between your Kenny Desselle, Jr. caught a redfish bait and the on Oct. 18 in Halfmoon Bay. gap of the hook so it can slide into the corner of the fish's mouth, especially with harder baits like crabs.

Bring Lots of Tackle When you get a bite while using circle hooks, don’t set the hook. Simply close your bail and allow the fish to come tight. Setting the hook on a circle hook is going to pull the hook straight out of its mouth, leaving one unhappy angler and a fish that’s one meal richer. If you don’t feel like tying or buying rigs, fear not. The bite is usually so hot during the jubilee you can get away with simply threading a headless shrimp onto a jig and slowly bouncing it along the bottom.

Get More Tackle However you plan on fishing, bring lots of tackle.

There are tons of snags in the canals, and if you aren’t losing gear you likely aren’t in the right area.

When fishing the jubilee, make sure to stay on public property unless you have permission to fish somewhere private. Many of our local watermen work out of where the jubilee takes place, and it’s important to stay respectful and within the law to ensure everyone has a fun, safe time and can continue to enjoy the jubilee for years to come.

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Diggin in the Garden

by Anna Timmerman

Broccoli underplanted with romaine lettuce.

Designing a Cool Season Kitchen Garden

W

intertime is really the best time to grow abundant, colorful vegetables and herbs in our area. This can be done in traditional, in-ground gardens, raised beds, containers, or any combination of those planting strategies. Most kitchen garden crops appreciate full sun in the winter months when the light is less intense than in the summer months. Some greens and brassica crops like cauliflower, broccoli, and napa cabbage can handle partial shade, but production will always be best with sunlight.

incredibly productive, and add big flavors to your meals. Most cool season vegetables and herbs enjoy soils rich in organic matter that drain excess water readily, yet remain evenly moist.

The closer your kitchen garden is to the kitchen in your home, the better. This makes the gardenercook more likely to notice when something is at peak ripeness. Traditionally, kitchen gardens are small and compact, densely, and diversely planted.

Even in a small footprint, kitchen gardens can be

Check Guide for Spacing

Bok Choy

58 Winter Issue 2023

Some cool season vegetables require good levels of nitrogen to produce abundantly. The LSU AgCenter Vegetable Planting Guide has tables of general fertilizer rates for the various crops listed. This publication is available free on the website and is easily found by using a search engine to look up “LSU AgCenter Vegetable Planting Guide.”

It is a good idea to mulch any pathways or spaces between plants in the garden to aid in regulating soil moisture, prevent dirt from splashing up into crops (especially greens!) and to add an insulation effect for the root zone in the event of a freeze.

Pine straw works well, as does untreated hay, straw, and pine bark. A good layer of 2-3 inches of mulch boosts soil health, and by extension, plant health, working to prevent stress and disease or pest pressure.

When planning what to plant where, it is a good idea to consider plant height and width at maturity.

Overcrowding plants can stunt growth and invite more pest pressure or diseases spreading. The LSU plant guide lists the recommended spacing for crops in a helpful table. To save space, you can employ a technique called “underplanting.”

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Taller crops such as Brussels sprouts, kale, English and snow peas, broccoli, cauliflower, collards, and mustard greens can be underplanted with shorter crops, like lettuces, tatsoi, arugula, mizuna, radishes, and cress.

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Rotation and Interplanting Succession planting is another technique for getting the most out of a kitchen garden. Rather than planting a large area or patch of any one crop, plant ¼ of the crop each week in a rotation so that there is always a batch ready to harvest. This way, the season and harvesting of that crop is extended and there won’t be large quantities of something to scramble and cook all at once.

Interplanting kitchen herbs with vegetables is also a good use of space. Many herbs work to attract beneficial predatory insects to the garden that will then help to control cool season pests like aphids and caterpillars. Parsley, fennel, dill, celery, chives, oregano, garlic chives, cilantro, and borage are all great winter herbs. Cottage flowers also add charm, beauty, and even edible blooms to a kitchen garden. Nasturtiums, violas, pansies, dianthus, calendula, alyssum, and bachelor’s buttons are all great choices.

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Faces of the Parish

Newcomers and Longtime Residents

1

1.

James McGinnis, left, Layton Greene, Alvaro Hernandez, Daniel Marchiafava, and Ahmad Lowe hang out at Tag’s Deli after school. They are members of the Chalmette High School Voices.

2.

Knights of Nemesis past goddesses Pamela Bennett, left, (No. XV), and Rhonda A. Miller (No. XVI) are lifelong residents.

3.

Leslie Williams, originally from Jamaica, moved to St. Bernard Parish in 2019 from New Orleans.

What does he like about living in the parish? “It’s more smooth,” he said.

4. Nikaya Wright, left, and Misty Colson enjoy a girls’ day painting party at Julie’s Tavern. Both are natives of the parish.

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4

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5

5.

Paula Wilson met Tank Solano while he was living in Kansas City. Solano grew up in the parish, and lived in KC for 24 years. The couple moved to Chalmette four years ago. “I love it here. I love the mild winters, and the people here are so nice,” she said.

6. In December 2022, Gina and Jean-Louis Baron-Hyppolite, with granddaughter Anna Meyers, shopped in Old Arabi, celebrating their one-year anniversary of buying a house in Meraux.

Faces of the Parish

Newcomers and Longtime Residents

7.

Betty Showalter and Eddie Maher dance almost every Sunday night at Buffalos Billiards 3, formerly Lacy’s Cue. The longtime residents have dated for 21 years.

8. Twins Hudson, Bennett and dad Tommy Benge,Jr., return from hunting in the parish for lunch at Penny’s Cafe. Tommy is the grandson of Dorothy and Donald Benge, who donated the Molero House to Los Islenos Museum Complex.

9.

7

Johniece Evans lives in Violet. She moved from Indianapolis six years ago. “It’s more friendly here, and there are a lot of places to eat. Good food, good people.”

8

10. Longtime residents Mary Fernandez, left, and Belva Leger grew up next door to each other in Toca.

11. Demi Deblonde, 8, celebrates her first Holy Communion with mom Crystal, brother Britt,Jr., and father Britt.

9

12. Craig Melerine and wife Brenda (left), Raul Vallecillo, with Robin and her husband Eddie Asevado enjoyed dinner at Family Cajun Kitchen. They are descendants of early Islenos families.

13. Newcomer Sidney P. Nunez relocated to St Bernard Parish in April 2022 from Kenner. “I moved here to be closer to my daughter and grandchildren.”

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