Sophisticated Woman Magazine | March 2025

S O P H I S T I C AT E D

WO M A N

March 2025

For more information, go to sophisticatedwoman.com

M AG A Z I N E

W The Northshore’s Best

12

30

M A R C H

2 0 2 5

FEATURES

INSPIRING SENIOR

A Healer’s Heart

James “Jim” Campbell

Ashley Hoffpauir, RN............................................. 12

Fascination with Louisiana’s Treasures Camellias and Azaleas........................................ 30

Budding Artist 11-year-old Giuliana reaching

20

FASHION

for artist dreams.................................................... 20

Mandeville Fashion Show.....................................14

St. Tammany Parish Department

COMMUNITY

of Animal Services.................................................22

Contributors................................................................. 5 Publisher’s Note..........................................................6

Setting the Captives Free

BGR Breakfast Panel.............................................. 24

Free NOLA's Love and Roses

A Smarter Approach to Funding

Totally 80s Bash......................................................25

Our Parish's Future Josh Allison.............................................................. 26

Slidell Joins the Womenship Movement

Planning for Aging

EmpowerHER Life Expands................................... 28

Christie Tournet........................................................ 34 Ribbon Cuttings....................................................... 38

4

22

Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

A Growing Cultural Legacy

Sophisticated Happenings...................................39

in Louisiana’s North Shore

Calendar Of Events................................................40

The Abita Springs International

Weekly Markets........................................................41

Film Festival..............................................................35

Sophisticated Woman Magazine

By Women. For Women.

Inspiring Women.

Publisher Barbara Edwards Doyle Editor Maureen O'Brien Graphic Design Chris Gracia, Emily Haik, Brad Growden, Michelle Plaisance-Billiot Contributing Writers Heidi Heyns, Sandra Scalise Juneau, Lexi St. Laurent Hartmann, Erin M. Cowser, Kim Bergeron Account Executives Michelle Plaisance-Billiot, Maureen O'Brien, Linda Larkin, Katie Chabreck, Daphne Misuraca Contributing Photographers Linda Larkin, Michelle Plaisance-Billiot, Alyssa Arnold Photography, Paige Henderson, Donna Sivori Donahoe, Cherie Naquin, Kim Bergeron Distribution Manager Anthony Figaro Distribution for Rouses Danny Sunseri Cover Photography Chuck Billiot

Sophisticated Woman Magazine 200 Greenleaves Boulevard, Unit 4 Mandeville, LA 70448 Phone: 985-893-7350 e-mail: barbara@sophisticatedwoman.com website: SophisticatedWoman.com ©2025 Sophisticated Woman Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher. Views expressed are not necessarily shared by the publisher or staff of this publication. Please mail comments or submit articles and photographs to the above address.

Distribution— Mailed distribution to targeted affluent homes and delivers to upscale businesses and homes throughout St.Tammany and Tangipahoa Parishes and the southshore. Issues are also available at area Rouses Markets, Barnes & Noble, and local businesses.

Contact us today. You’ll be surprised at how affordable it is to advertise with the Northshore's Best.

If you wish to be mailed a one year subscription for $19.95, please email barbara@Sophisticatedwoman.com.

Look for The Northshore's Best in April.

See who is voted the BEST in St. Tammany and Tangipahoa.

Contributors Sandra Scalise Juneau A native Louisianian and resident of Madisonville, Sandra Scalise Juneau is a journalist focusing on local history, cuisine, and culture. Her book, Celebrating with St. Joseph Altars, published by LSU Press in March 2021 has received nationwide acclaim and is now in second printing.

Erin Cowser is a collaboration, communications, and legislative affairs strategist with experience in the higher education, non-profit and government sectors. She serves on the boards of several organizations and philanthropies.

Writing is the creative escape for this Tangipahoa resident whose most important role will always be mom of Eliza Kate.

Heidi Heyns,a globe-trotting journalist and voice talent, weaves verbal fun from Hong Kong to California. Her writing and radio narratives, rich with emotion and humor, capture life's zest from beneath her signature cowboy hat.

Paige Henderson is a portrait photographer located in Mandeville, Louisiana. She was born in New Orleans but relocated to Indonesia at age 8. Her exposure to different cultures has been a driving force and inspiration in her portraiture. Paige is married to Steve Henderson, and is the mother of 4 now adult humans, Davin, Stevie, Jack and Rex. March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman

5

publisher's note

Here we go guys and gals into some of the most beautiful weather all year! This March we do not just have St. Patrick’s Day parades to look forward to, but we will be having Mardi Gras parades as well. I love when the carnival season goes into March.

It usually makes for warmer temperatures, which makes the parades even that more enjoyable.

March is also the month when we start looking forward to the sprouting of new buds and the expectations of nature’s renewal, but keep in mind that March can be a very fickle month. While March is usually the start of warmer weather, we have had a few of those late (unwelcomed) winter days. In fact, I can remember one year when we were caught completely off guard. My husband and I were out for an evening at the Biloxi Belle Casino, and while we were sitting there playing some Blackjack, someone yelled out, "It is snowing!" What a shock to all there. That night it was a little dicey getting back home. So, I guess the best rule of thumb is to not pack up all the winter coats yet. My hope is, that we will not need them.

Barbara Edwards Doyle 6

Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman

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March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman

9

A Healer’s Heart

Ashley Hoffpauir, RN WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM BERGERON

The Intensive Care Unit on the first floor, which Ashley oversees, includes 12 critical care rooms with a multitude of high-tech features.

Among her favorites is the large EPIC digital monitor in each room, which enables the care team to pull up and share patients’ charts and imaging test results. Virtual-assisted care capabilities make it easy for patients and providers to connect and consult electronically as needed. The electronic boards also provide patients with continually-updated details about their ongoing care, including the names For as long as she can remember, Ashley

me so much” she says. “The guidance and

of their physicians and nurses, plus schedules

Hoffpauir has wanted to be a nurse. She fondly

wisdom he provided has had so much impact

for upcoming tests and medications.

recalls visiting her grandparents’ home when

on my career and my personal life, so now I am

her mother provided care for the aging couple.

trying to pay it forward.”

Each of the rooms include negative pressure technology designed to safeguard patients,

As she got older, Ashley assisted her mother,

In December of 2024, Ashley was promoted

their families and staff from airborne viruses,

providing additional TLC. She deeply believed

to the position of ICU Charge Nurse in Slidell

should that need arise. Additionally, every

that caregiving was the ultimate form of love.

Memorial’s new Surgical Services and Patient

patient is equipped with a portable monitor

In 2006, after Hurricane Katrina destroyed

Care Tower. It’s a role she has embraced with

for continuous connections with caregiv-

her home in St. Bernard Parish, Ashley and

a combination of childlike wonder and nursing

ers. Several of the suites feature motorized

her family moved to Slidell. Then the young

expertise, gleefully sharing information about

Hoyer lifts which can safely transport patients

lady who fell in love with caregiving opted to

all that the facility has to offer.

from their beds to their private bathrooms as

pursue her passion at Our Lady of Holy Cross

The $52 million project was funded in part by

needed. Lastly, in-room dialysis capabilities

(now University of Holy Cross) on the West Bank

a $23 million bond renewal overwhelmingly sup-

enable patients to receive treatment in the

of New Orleans. She earned her Bachelor of

ported by voters in 2021, and the new tower wel-

comfort of their suite.

Science degree in nursing in 2010. A year later,

comed its first patients in September of 2024. The

Ashley says that collectively, the ICU

she married Carl Hoffpauir, and the couple now

three-story, 61,028-square-foot facility marks the

unit offers unsurpassed patient care, with

share two children, Addison and “Little Carl.”

largest expansion in the not-for-profit hospital’s

every feature and the overall design careful-

history since it first opened its doors in 1959.

ly planned. Slidell Memorial, alongside its

In April of 2012, Ashley joined the team at Slidell Memorial Hospital, serving as a bedside

“Everything in this facility has been designed

partner, Ochsner Health, masterfully orches-

RN in the intensive care unit. She felt fortu-

and structured to make the patient experience

trated the technology to provide the ultimate

nate to have a registered nurse colleague, Jody

so much better,” she says enthusiastically. “And

patient education, care and comfort.

Campo, take her under his wing.

it also makes our jobs, as caregivers, much

“He became an amazing mentor who taught

12 Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

easier. It’s fantastic.”

“And that’s just the first floor” she exclaims.

“But there’s so much more!”

she’s providing care for people she knows, or people who know someone she knows. It’s the small town, big heart effect.

“Just being able to help people through life’s challenging times is so fulfilling,” she says.

“Sure, at times it can get tough, but then there’s always that moment, sometimes even a little thing, that hits you, and you remember your ‘Why’—why it is you love what you do. And in that moment, you celebrate the blessing of a caregiver’s heart. And it’s really special.”

The second floor is home to seven state-of-

which houses the acclaimed Intuitive da Vinci

the-art operating suites equipped with spe-

5® robotic surgery system. This cutting-edge

cialized air flow and unique sterile instrument

technology offers superior control and ergo-

processing capabilities to minimize the risk of

nomics with immersive 3D imaging, enabling

cross-contamination. The surgical suite gen-

surgeons to perform minimally-invasive proce-

erating the most community buzz is the one

dures with extraordinary precision and control that greatly exceeds the capabilities of traditional surgery. What results are smaller incisions, less stress on surrounding tissue, reduced post-operative pain and quicker recovery time.

Rounding out the new tower is the third floor, which serves as the medical and surgical unit, with 26 private patient care rooms. As is the case with the first floor ICU, all of the rooms are equipped with virtual-assisted care capabilities and negative pressure technology.

“It’s almost unheard of for a small community hospital to be able to offer all of this technology to our patients,” says Ashley. “I am so proud to be part of the team providing this transformative care!”

What she finds most rewarding are the community connections, saying that often times,

March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman 13

Mandeville Fashion Show Photography by Bellus Photography

14 Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman 15

Photography by Alyssa Arnold Photography

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March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman 17

Photography by Donna Sivori Donahoe

18 Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

These fashions and more can be found at these local shops: • Royal Peacock

• Design by D

• Fashion 4 Kids

• Petite and Me

• MSB Fit

• Disco Lemonade

• Blu Magnolia

• Mel’s Crochet

• Apricot Lane

• Designing You

• Jolie and Jax

• Silly Girl Rock

• Dodge City March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman 19

Budding Artist

11-year-old Giuliana reaching for artist dreams WRITTEN BY ERIN M. COWSER

with a private art lesson sleepover),

simply amazing.”

Giuliana is achieving her dream. She

Giuliana’s artistic pursuits and

is a junior intern at Angelle Victoria

visiting galleries introduced her to

Studio

was

painting, clay and resin. A desk is

recently asked to show her artwork

allotted to each in her home studio,

at Fifth World Gallery in Long Beach,

which is her dedicated creative space

Mississippi. She can also be found at

filled with abundant art supplies.

Nothing against nursing. And teaching

The Market Munchkins, which is an

When asked about her favorite, she

is certainly a noble profession. While it is

all-kids craft/farmers market held

points to resin and clay work with

reported that 26% of young women say they

twice a year in Madisonville.

flowers as her preferred medium.

in

Mandeville

and

want to become either nurses or teachers,

“I’m super proud of my little

It was those flower pieces that

Giuliana Mandina isn’t one of them. For her

prodigy,” says Angelle Jeansonne

caught the attention of Nora Childers,

it has always, always been about becoming

of Angelle Victoria Studio. “She is

owner of Fifth World Gallery. You’ll

an artist. Her mom has the 1st Day of School chalkboards to prove it.

“Ever since she’s been old enough to hold a brush in her hand, she’s wanted to be an artist,” says mom, Christy Bacon Mandina.

“She was 3 when she created what I consider her first real piece of artwork. We later submitted it as her sample piece when she was applying for and accepted into the Talented Art program at school.”

Now, at the ripe age of 11 (no surprise that she celebrated her January birthday 20 Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

find lilies, roses, magnolias and bouquets

harden so you can’t use it,” she says. “Resin

“I like to make silly movies with my friends.

among her signature pieces.

has a mind of its own sometimes. You have to

And I just joined the Beta Club at my school,

learn to let it be the resins’ choice.”

too,” says the budding artist who is well on

“I was asked to display and sell my art in October. I submitted my pieces and signed

Giuliana’s artistic outlook is a family

my first contract in November. I sold my

tradition, having great-grandmothers and

first piece the very next month!” says the

grandmas who themselves were artists and

Tchefuncte Middle School fifth grader. “It

painters of ceramics. Christy, an avid crafter

was a piece featuring two 3D magnolias.” She

herself, says she couldn’t wait for her daugh-

has since completed her first commissioned

ter to be old enough to start crafting with her.

work as an artist, too.

Giuliana’s little sister Malia (4 years old) is

Giuliana says she sees things in nature or

Last year, the Mandinas came across a

to re-creating them. In addition to her 3D

Mardi Gras bead dog designed with ball

portfolio of flower pieces she uses resin to

pit balls and decided to create their own

create art with nods to geodes.

version. This called for experimenting with

“I look at what I think will be the most

different types of adhesives and finding the

beautiful, and make it,” she says. “I’m a

perfect finishing touches to put on their

crystal collector and get ideas from their

bead dogs.

color combinations.”

Inspiration is the easy part of the creative

the biggest piece of who I am.”

starting to get into crafting, too.

while out and about shopping and is drawn

movement and patterns, different rings and

her way to achieving. “But most of all, art is

“After promoting them on our neighborhood Facebook page, we sold out in less than a week!” Giuliana says proudly.

process, she adds. It’s the next few steps that

When not creating art for enjoyment or

can be a bit tricky. “You have to combine

enterprise, you’ll find Giuliana in the kitchen

the resin and the hardener exactly in equal

cooking or at the dance studio where she’s

parts. If you don't, it will get sticky, but won’t

taken dance for the past nine years.

March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman 21

Cindy

St. Tammany Parish Department of Animal Services At a shelter in the woods of St. Tammany Parish, there were oodles and poodles of love on Valentine’s Day. Or rather, Palentine’s Day! St. Tammany Parish Department of Animal Services put on an adoption special to help the homeless cats and dogs find their ‘furever’ homes.

Adoption fees were halved from the beginning of February through

Suzanna

Valentine’s Day, hoping to entice animal lovers to visit the shelter and rescue their new loveable pal.

Of those available for adoption, a special few had the privilege of being photographed with ‘Shots By Shelby’ - who is one of the shelter’s own multi-talented staff members. Featured is Pepperoni (A119271), an eleven-month-old Labrador Retriever and Pit Bull mix, who is the longest available canine resident at the shelter. He has been patiently waiting to be adopted since being surrendered last June. Another pup, Oreo (A120534), is only ten months old and was found as a stray last October. His sweet face and personality is complimented by energetic playfulness. Both of these puppies would thrive if they were to get the chance to transition to relaxing home life! Of Animal Service’s cats, there were two Palentine special spotlights: Cindy (A120049) & Suzanna (A121475). Both are about one

Pepperoni

Oreo

year old and are searching for the purr-fect lap for a cat nap! Cindy has been making the most of her stay at the shelter in the cat cabin, being social and snoozing away on the tower. Suzanna requires a caring, loving home, as she is FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) Positive. There is no cure, but cats with this diagnosis can live very normal, healthy lives with proper management. Suzanna is a petite love bug who will steal your heart! All four would be smitten to have someone ‘whisker’ them away as soon as paws-ible!

St. Tammany Parish Department of Animal Services strives to

St. Tammany Parish Department of Animal Services 31078 Highway 36, Lacombe, LA. 70445 p: (985) 871-4513 e: hmbeebe@stpgov.org www.stpgov.org

provide the highest standard of care to all of their animals. Their secret to success is the community that stands behind them. All the animals and staff are grateful for the support they receive each and every day. Thank you, St. Tammany and all supporters!”

March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman 23

BGR Breakfast Panel

The Bureau of Governmental Research (BGR), a good government group serving the New Orleans metro area, held a Tuesday discussion on St. Tammany’s economic future. About 100 people attended the panel, which was sponsored by First Horizon Bank and held at Hornbeck Offshore Services in Covington.

BGR President and CEO Rebecca Mowbray led off the discussion between St. Tammany Parish President Michael Cooper, St. Tammany Corporation President Christopher Masingill and public policy researcher Robert Habans.

“St. Tammany has continued to grow its economy in the two decades since Hurricane Katrina,” Mowbray said. “With more businesses and jobs available today, fewer residents need to make the daily commute to work in other parishes.”

Habans, who worked as the chief economist at The Data Center, highlighted the parish’s recent economic and population trends and explained what might happen going forward.

“If you look at the state as a whole, Louisiana basically has added no new jobs since 2014,” Habans said. “A lot of St. Tammany’s economic strengths, a lot of its growth, has come from its population growth.”

Other points of the conversation focused on how the parish could draw in new investment while managing growth impacts on residents.

The full panel discussion is available now on BGR’s website. Please navigate to www.bgr.org/ st-tammany-economic-growth-bgr-february-11breakfast-briefing/

24 Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

Setting the Captives Free "If you missed Free NOLA's Love & Roses Totally 80s fundraising bash on January 18, 2025 at the Fleur de Lis Event Center in Mandeville, you missed an awesome time. Maggie, our guest speaker this year, brought the house down with her testimony about how she remembered for years Free NOLA ministered to her and brought her roses. She is now living a healthy life in the Mississippi Gulf Coast area and is keeping in touch with Diane at Free NOLA. We had many silent and live auction items, including another live auction painting.

To top off the night, there was a regular 80s dance party and plenty of fun mingling!! If you missed this year's event, keep your eyes open for our next event, and plan to join us then!!"

March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman 25

Josh Allison

A Smarter Approach to Funding Our Parish's Future be back out on the street to offend again. These are just some examples of the issues that force our local officials to repeatedly ask for tax hikes to cover essential projects.

This proposition finally puts an end to that cycle. This proposition will afford us long-term financial stability for the things that matter most: Public Safety - Fully funding law enforcement and public safety agencies, so they have the resources to protect our families.

Infrastructure - Directing revenue toward long-term road, traffic, and drainage improvements instead of short-term fixes.

Economic Growth - Providing a stable financial plan that encourages smart development and maintains St. Tammany's reputation as a great place to live and do business.

Let me be clear: this Is not a new tax. It simply locks in the current rate and prevents future increases, so we can meet our community’s needs without burdening taxpayers.

What kind of future do we want for this beautiful parish of ours?

Do we want a future where our roads, drainage and public safety

As a local attorney, business owner, and former chairman of the

agencies get the funding they need - without any new taxes? I'm

Republican Party in St. Tammany, I've spent years fighting for responsible

voting yes because I believe in fiscal responsibility. I believe in funding

governance and fiscal accountability. It's not every day that I see a ballot

what matters most without raising taxes. And I believe in keeping St

measure that truly respects the will of the taxpayers- but this one does.

Tammany strong for generations to come.

I urge you to vote YES, for a safer, more secure St. Tammany.

Join me. Vote YES on March 29.

On March 29, we in St. Tammany Parish will have a chance to secure critical public safety and infrastructure funding without increasing our

Josh Allison

sales tax rate. The upcoming proposition simply renews and extends the

Covington Attorney & Business Owner

current sales tax rate for another 25 years while restructuring how those dollars are allocated. For a long time, we have enjoyed being a safe place to

Joshua D. Allison, A Professional Law Corporation has offices at 207 E.

raise our families, but that is now being threaten. If we are unable to fund

Gibson Street in Covington, 506 Water Street in Madisonville and 1203 Main

our justice system and jail in our parish, we will not be able to bring to

Street in Franklinton. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call

justice the criminals that our law enforcement arrests, and thus they will

985-302-5630 or visit allisonlawcorp.com. LA-24-17730

Josh Allison is a Covington based attorney, licensed to practice law in all state and federal courts in Louisiana including the Federal Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal. He is an active member of the Louisiana State Bar Association and the 22nd JDC Bar Association. His practice areas consist of business litigation, family law litigation, and personal injury litigation.

26 Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman 27

Slidell Joins the Womenship Movement WRITTEN BY LEXI ST. LAURENT HARTMANN PHOTOS BY CHERIE NAQUIN

On February 12, dozens of women

that when one woman embraces her

dressed in their best Mob Wives attire

journey of self-discovery and empow-

filled The Sadie Jane to celebrate the

erment, she lifts everyone around her,"

official launch of EmpowerHER Life's

says Allums. "It's the understanding

newest branch in Slidell. The energy

that we deserve to be number one in

was palpable as attendees mingled,

our own stories."

snapped photos, and danced, all while

This mindset has resonated deeply

connecting over food and drinks from

with women who are ready to put

The Sadie Jane and a delicious cake

in the work required for meaning-

from Dolce Amore Bakery.

ful transformation. EmpowerHER Life

Hosted by life coach and Slidell

attracts those who prioritize self-devel-

Leadership Team member Ashlie Price,

opment, have a growth mindset, and

alongside EmpowerHER Life Founder

understand that investing in them-

and CEO Desi Allums, the evening

selves is the foundation for success in

marked another milestone in the

all areas of life.

organization's rapid expansion across Louisiana.

Unlike

traditional

EmpowerHER

Life

events—

women's

like public speaking, goal-setting, and

groups that focus on networking,

revenue generation, or in-person gath-

EmpowerHER Life stands firmly in its

erings like the Slidell launch—the

own category as a personal and pro-

emphasis remains consistent: do the

fessional development company. The

internal work first, and the external

distinction is intentional and founda-

connections will naturally follow.

tional to its mission.

As the evening at The Sadie Jane

"We are not a networking organiza-

wound down, many attendees lin-

tion," Allums states definitively. "While

gered, exchanging cell phone numbers

connections naturally form, our focus

instead of business cards, and making

begins with creating a space where

plans to attend upcoming events. The

women can genuinely invest in them-

scene perfectly illustrated what makes

selves and their growth."

the

This

28 Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

At

whether virtual sessions on topics

philosophy—that

organization

unique—women

person-

forming authentic bonds based on a

al growth serves as the foundation

shared commitment to showing up for

for everything else—has propelled

themselves in pursuit of growth.

EmpowerHER Life from a fledgling idea

With branches now in Houma, Slidell,

to the region's fastest-growing women's

and the Louisiana Northshore—and

organization in less than two years.

New Orleans and Baton Rouge slated

The Slidell launch represents more

for 2025—EmpowerHER Life continues

than just geographic expansion; it's

to create spaces where women can pri-

another chapter in what Allums

oritize their personal transformation

calls “The Womenship Movement,” a

first and foremost.

concept that has taken root throughout

As members invest in their own

the Louisiana Northshore and beyond.

development, they experience the

"Womenship is about recognizing

ripple effects that naturally follow:

EmpowerHER Life Expands business growth accelerates, community forms organically, and connections deepen in ways that traditional networking could never facilitate.

This inside-out approach is what distinguishes EmpowerHER Life in a landscape of women's organizations.

“True empowerment isn’t given—it’s claimed.

It starts with self-love and owning your worth” Allums reminds us. “When you fully embrace that journey, you don’t just change your own life—you ignite a ripple effect that transforms everyone around you.”

For women in Slidell and the surrounding areas, that journey now has a home base. And if the launch party was any indication, the Womenship Movement is just getting started.

For more information on EmpowerHER Life, visit https://empowerherlife.network

Growing up during the 1940s, his world was colored by the lush landscapes along

S e n i o r

New Orleans’ bayous and boulevards abloom

James “Jim” Campbell F A S C I N A T I O N W I T H L O U I S I A N A ’ S T R E A S U R E S C A M E L L I A S A N D A Z A L E A S

with each season’s spectacle. But it was during his ninth year on a family holiday visit that James “Jim” Campbell was first introduced to a Louisiana treasure, one that piqued his curiosity into a lifelong passion for our native flora. At the home of his Uncle Henry Vasterling, he became fascinated by an arrangement in a glass bowl of exotic looking purple blossoms. His uncle, a member of the New Orleans Men’s Camellia Society, said that the Camellia Japonica, known as the “Purple Dawn” was his favorite, and he had cultivated that particular variety in the hopes of entering it as a winning competitor in camellia shows. According to Campbell, “I wasn’t even a teenager when he would

I n s p i r i n g

take me outside to show me his camellias.”

There Campbell was introduced to the intricacies of grafting camellias, and continues, “The thing is, he had dozens of bushes but just one kind of camellia, the Purple Dawn.

His goal was to have the biggest, best, most beautiful Purple Dawn blooms anywhere.”

It

was

Jim’s

education

at

Tulane

University’s School of Architecture, through his work with the U.S. Historical American Building Society, where his appreciation for historical preservation introduced him not only to a superb local collection of ageless architectural gems - both residences and commercial sites, but also to the treasure trove of exquisite gardens that surrounded those properties. In many cases, years of inattention had left those gardens fallow.

Yet Jim noticed that despite neglect those ancient bushes and trees were sustained, and their hardiness had kept them alive.

'Martha Hitchcock' evergreen azalea

Through his designs of residences, schools and hospitals, examples of Campbell’s archiWRITTEN BY SANDRA SCALISE JUNEAU

30 Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

tectural works abound across Louisiana.

Throughout his career, his appreciation for

camellias and azaleas continued to flourish.

But it was after the 2004 retirement of his practice of architecture that his true avocation began. He then traveled the world, seeking out specific varieties of camellias in exquisitely designed Asian gardens in China and Japan, and in Italy, Switzerland and Germany.

For over fifty years Campbell propagated camellias through the artistry of his grafting techniques on his home property in Covington. “My property consists of 17 acres with frontage on the Bogue Falaya River.” He further explains, “I have 1,200 varieties on my land. Thanks in part to the friendship I formed with the late Hody Wilson, former Director of the Hammond Research Station. He showed me how to grow them when I first moved to this side of the lake in the 1960s.”

A

Louisiana

Master

Gardener,

Jim

Campbell is a Life Member of the American Camellia Society, has served as President,

as the President. He is proud to report that

answer any of their questions.”

Vice President, Board Member and as the

the club now numbers over 100 members.

Additionally, Campbell is a member of

Louisiana State Director. He is currently a

His goal is to engage young members, men-

the Azalea Society of America, is President

Member of the ACS Trust, which oversees

toring them, while showing them, step-by-

of the Louisiana Chapter and serves on the

the assets of over $12 Million.

step, “How easy it is to grow camellias.” And

National Board of Directors. As a Founding

The Northshore Camellia Club was

adds, “I have many tips for grafting, and I

Member of the Wild Ones Pontchartrain

founded in 2006 and Jim Campbell serves

will gladly teach anyone my method and

Basin Society, he has served on their Board of Directors. Having competed in numerous Camellia Shows and having been an accredited judge for over twenty years, Campbell states, “I have won many awards at Camellia Shows. But my proudest moment was at my first Camellia Show when I entered my first bloom and won for the Best Pink Perfection. (You could have not bought me for a Million Dollars)” Through the years of his growing camellias and azaleas, Campbell has assisted countless gardeners, both novice and accomplished in propagating native and

Japanese Magnolia

other species of both flowering plants. He explains, “I have been growing Camellias for over 56 years. The Oldest plant is Big March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman 31

Beauty, a japonica planted 54 years ago, with a total of over 1500 varieties in my collection.” For several years, Campbell provided many of those varieties through his nursery, called Riverside Camellias, which was closed in 2005. He further explains, “You can propagate camellias by rooting cuttings and grafting. But when they grow from seed, you really don’t know what you’re going to get. Every now and then, one of the plants puts

'Snow' evergreen azalea

out a beautiful bloom.”

Campbell is most proud of his work on behalf of our Louisiana flora, and assisted in the restoration of the gardens at the Hammond Research Station, planted by former Director, Hoda Wilson, who cultivated a spectacular camellia garden at the station.

“We had worked in teams to restore those magnificent gardens, but after destruction by Hurricanes

'Nuccio's Bella Rossa' camellia japonica

Katrina and Ida, the flowering gardens were repurposed for growing vegetables.”

For the past ten years, Campbell has worked with the Jungle Gardens at Avery Island to re-identify the thousands of camellias within the 175 acre site. He explains, “Those gardens were planted over seven decades ago by Edward Avery “Ned” McIlhenny to showcase our Louisiana

Higo camellia japonica

Souvenir de Bahuad Litou' camellia japonica

treasures, including many exquisite varieties of camellia plants.” Each variety was identified with a marker. Several generations later, a member of the McIlhenny family, in order to discourage vandalism (individuals were helping themselves to cuttings from those camellia bushes), she decided to remove all of the identifying markers. As Campbell states, “It is an ongoing, almost endless process to re-identify those venerable camellias.”

Excited about the future, Campbell pointed out that, through agricultural research by the British company, Camellia Agricultural Research Services Ltd., studies are underway to produce camellias which will have a summertime bloom, can be genetically engineered to produce blooms in shades of yellow, and with ongoing experimentation for producing various camellia fragrances. And, Jim

'Radiant Red' deciduous azalea Aromi Hybrid 32 Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

Campbell says, “With our Louisiana treasures, there is always something new.”

Planning for Aging As we age, we face a unique set of legal, health, and financial challenges in Louisiana.

Elder law

planning addresses the specific needs of seniors including estate planning, Medicaid planning, long-term care, guardianship, and elder abuse prevention. For example, estate planning most often involves Last Wills or Trusts with Powers of attorney to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes and to help your heirs and beneficiaries avoid long delays caused by probate and legal challenges, such as a guardianship proceeding. Proper powers of attorney are instrumental in making sure your medical preferences are respected, and that a trusted agent can continue to handle your financial and legal affairs in the event of physical or mental incapacity.

Seniors should also begin to plan for long-term care needs by developing strategies to qualify for necessary medical benefits while preserving assets for loved ones. Families can also begin to consider all long-term care options, including nursing home care, assisted living, and home care to facilitate this transition process when the time comes. In some cases, where prior planning was not accomplished, and seniors become unable to make decisions for themselves, a guardianship or conservatorship might be necessary to protect your loved one’s interests.

Failure to obtain this guidance and create a comprehensive plan to effectively addresses these challenges means your wishes may not be fulfilled at the time you most need them. But, planning for the aging process can instead empower you to receive the care and protection your deserve during your golden years.

Christie Tournet Christie Tournet & Associates, LLC 985-951-2177 • christie@tournetlaw.com

34 Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

A Growing Cultural Legacy in Louisiana’s North Shore The Abita Springs International Film Festival

WRITTEN BY HEIDI HEYNS

“Stealing Partners Dance.” The presence of storyteller Greyhawk Perkins, a respected voice in Louisiana’s Native American communities, reinforced the festival’s mission of preserving cultural history through film and performance.

Award-Winning Films and Notable Moments With over 40 film submissions from eight countries, ASIFF continues to expand its reach. This year’s Best of the Fest honor went to “Dirty Dogs,” a documentary chronicling the fall of the Lucky Dog monopoly in New Orleans’ French Quarter.

The film’s victory came with valuable industry support, including equipment rental packages Springs

and grassroots efforts. The festival’s founders,

totaling over $12,000 from Magnolia Studios (for-

International Film Festival (ASIFF) has already

In

its

two

years,

the

Abita

Sheridan Philipp, Evette Randolph, and Fiona

merly Quixote Studios) and Keslow Cameras.

emerged as a promising cultural event, offering

McQuinn, envisioned a space where local,

a platform for filmmakers to share diverse and

national, and international filmmakers could

impactful stories. While still in its early stages,

connect with audiences in a setting that values

ASIFF has already drawn films with inter-

storytelling, creativity, and culture.

national recognition, including entries from

This year’s theme, “Indigenous Voices,” was

Sundance, i-Fest International Film Festival

a powerful example of the festival’s com-

(Italy), and the 36 Girona Film Festival (Spain).

mitment to showcasing underrepresented

And, like any young festival, its future

narratives. The festival opened with Mariah

depends on community engagement and

Hernandez-Fitch’s film, “Ekbeh”, an offi-

support. As ASIFF works to establish itself, the

cial selection of Sundance 2024, which tells

festival board and organizers are grappling

the story of a chef reconnecting with her

with the growing pains of building an event

Houma Nation heritage through food. Another

that can endure for years to come.

standout was “ISHAK,” directed by Maaliyah Papillion, exploring the journey of rediscover-

A Festival Rooted in

ing and preserving sacred traditions.

Community and Storytelling

In addition to screenings, the festival fea-

Unlike major film festivals backed by hefty

tured live performances from the Mississippi

corporate sponsorships and large production

Band of Choctaw Indians, drawing audienc-

companies, ASIFF was born out of passion

es into their social dances, including the March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman 35

• Best Screenplay: “The Great Davini” • Best Cinematography: “Claimant” • Best Director: Jannet Lopez & Carlos Jimenez for “Emma’s Social Battery” • Best Actor: Lance Nichols for “A Touch of Magic” • Best Actress: Ann Mahoney for “Pretty Bird”

Honorable Mentions: • “The Book Club” • “Pretty Bird” • “Memories of Tomorrow” • “The Esteemed Priority”

A Space for Filmmakers and the Future of ASIFF ASIFF’s commitment to fostering local talent and industry connections was evident in its actors’ panel, featuring Billy Slaughter, Ann Mahoney, Britton Webb, and Greyhawk Perkins, who shared their experiences navigating the film industry. The filmmakers’ panel explored the future of filmmaking in Louisiana, with discussions on AI’s role in

Additional Award Winners: • Best Documentary Short: “Unleashed: A Love Letter to Survivors” • Best Documentary Feature: “Dirty Dogs” • Best Narrative Short: “A Touch of Magic”

storytelling and the state’s evolving film landscape.

The festival’s 7in7 Film Competition, which challenges local filmmakers to create a seven-minute film in seven days, produced this year’s winner, “Man

• Best Experimental Film: “Broad”

From Bandera,” a Western set against the backdrop of the Abita Springs

• Best Louisiana Film: “Wasted: Over-tourism in the French Quarter”

Trailhead Park.

36 Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

Why ASIFF Needs Community Support to Grow For ASIFF to continue thriving, the North Shore community must recognize its value beyond a weekend event. Film festivals are economic drivers, attracting tourism, generating revenue for local businesses, and putting small towns on the cultural map. The festival has already made strides in increasing its attendance and online following, but volunteer support, funding, and local engagement remain crucial.

Unlike film festivals in large metropolitan areas, ASIFF relies on the commitment of local artists, businesses, and film lovers to sustain its vision. The North Shore has the opportunity to grow ASIFF into a signature cultural event, elevating Louisiana filmmakers while also bringing international storytelling to the region.

If ASIFF continues to gain momentum, it could become the film festival for Louisiana, much like how Sundance transformed Park City, Utah into an essential film destination. The North Shore community now has a choice—embrace this festival and help it flourish, or risk letting an incredible artistic and cultural opportunity slip away.

How to Get Involved Those interested in supporting ASIFF can visit www. abitafilmfest.org to learn more about attending, volunteering, or contributing to next year’s festival on January 17-18, 2026.

I want to quickly interject here a note of gratitude and appreciation for the new owners of Oliver & Cecile Lodging & Lounge, (formerly the Blue Willow Bed & Breakfast) in downtown Covington.

They offered sophisticated Woman magazine a beautifully appointed room for the duration of the festival.

Lucky for me! I’m sure that without their incomparable personal service, attention to detail and customer care, I would likely not have been able to complete the coverage of the Festival.

I developed a terrible flu on the first night and had to leave early. They brought homemade chicken noodle soup up to my room. They made soothing hot tea available.

I say that had it not been for Ryan Scontrino and his partner Derek of the incredible Oliver & Cecile Lodging and Lounge, this story would be nonexistent.

March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman 37

H A P P E N I N G S

Ribbon Cuttings

St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce

S O P H I S T I C A T E D

Children’s Museum of St. Tammany

38 Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

Tangipahoa Chamber

Cox Accounting Services, LLC

Historic Harbor Field

Councilman Jason Zuckerman, Councilwoman Cynthia StrongThompson, Mayor Madden and Councilman Scott Discon

Scholarship Winner

The 7th Annual Dr. Billy Michal Scholarship Award winner Reese Arledge with Dr. Todd Brasuell.

H A P P E N I N G S

Krewe of Selene

Patrice Volante and Amy Donarski

Krewe of Antheia

Queen Rosemary Clement of the Krewe of Antheia.

S O P H I S T I C A T E D

Krewe of Selene

Queen Taylor Caywood, Oakland Caywood and Captain Traci Plaisance.

Rotary Club of Slidell

Guest speaker Billy Nungesser at the Rotary Club of Slidell.

March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman 39

community

4th The Krewe of Chahta

March Calendar

Parade Rolls at 1pm. Starts near Oaklawn Dr. and follows US 190 in Lacombe.

4th The Krewe of Bogue Falaya and Krewe of Covington Lions Club

Parade begins at 10am Starting at St.TammanyParish Justice Center, at the corner of Columbia and Jefferson.

4th Carnival In Covington Mardi Gras After Party

Covington keeps the party going with dancing, food and drink truck on site.Located at:Trailhead Museum and Visitors Center Free1-4pm Free 419 N.New Hampshire St.

6th,7th,8th Ponchatoula Antique Trade Days & Craft Fair Sponsored by the Ponchtoula Chamber of Commerce Reoccuring event the first week of the month.

Nov. 9am-5pm 100 W Pine at the downtown commuter parking lot.

7th,8th,9th Ozone Layers Quilt Guild Presents: Life’s a Stitch

There will be over a 100 quilts made by our members. Admission is free, but donations will be accepted. 11am-4pm Abita Springs Town Hall, 22161Level St.

8th The Rotary Club of Slidell Brings: The Magic of Reading Enjoy free drinks, snacks and entertainment featuring “Magician Mike.” 11am-2pm at Aldersgsate Methodist Church, John Wesley Center, 360 Robert Blvd., Slidell

9th Rotary Club of Hommond Presents: Bill Evens Jazz Brunch

1106 South Holly St.,Hammond 1pm-3pm, doors open at noon, Individual tickets 25$ For more information visit: HammondRotary.com or call: 985-634-6273

9th Mardi Paws Parade

Laissez les bons temps rouler! Parade rolls at 2-5pm, Registration at 12:30pm registration fee $25 per dog. Free to the public. Line up on N.Columbia and E. Kirkland in Covington for more information visit: MardiPaws.com

9th St. Patrick’s Parade Slidell

1-5 pm. 49th anual Slidell Olde Towne Merchant Association invites all to join in the fun.

The parade starts and ends city hall, traveling to Fremaux.

14th,15th,16th Amite Oyster Festival

Join us fro three days of food, music, rides and much more! Friday 5pm-Midnight.

Saturday10am-11pm. Sunday 10am-6pm N.E. Central Ave. & E.Mulberry St.

15th The Krewe Du Pooch

Free, furry family members are welcome!

Festivities begin10:30am-3pm Parade typically starts around noon at Mandeville Lakefront, Lakeshore Dr. For more information visit: KreweDuPooch.Com

15th Covington Celtic Club

St. Patrick’s Parade 12pm Parade stats at The Columbia TapRoom, Covington

8th The 41st St. Patrick’s Parade Ponchatula Krewe of Erin

The Northshores oldest wolking parade. This year's theme: Celtic Myths and Legends.

10:30am The parade starts at 8th & Oak St. Ending at Pine & 5th

40 Sophisticated Woman | March 2025

Please Note: All calendar events are subject to change. Call or visit websites for any updated information.

community

29th,30th The 44th Annual Olde Towne Slidell Spring Street Fair 10am- 5pm First, Second & Erlanger St. in Olde Towne Slidell.

For more information visit: SlidellStreetFair.com

29th The 15th Annunal “A Crawfish Cookin’ for a Cause

1545 Lakeshore Dr. Mandeville Fundraising event by, The Northshore Community Foundation for Local Charities. Enjoy loads of tasty crawfish and all the fixin’s as teams compete for bragging rights.11am-5pm $40 advance tickets $45-$50 at the gate, kids 10 and under free. For more information & advanced tickets visit: CrawfishCookinForACause.com or Call 985-893-8757

Weekly Markets Every Wednesday Covington Farmers Market 10am–

2pm, Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire Street, Covington, CovingtonFarmersMarket.net

Every Thursday & Saturday Lafitte Street Market 4–8pm Thursdays, 8am–Noon Saturdays, 698 Lafitte Street, Mandeville, facebook.com/LafitteStreetMarket

First & Third Saturday Pearl River’s Honey Island Art & Farmers Market 2–6pm, year round. 64378

Highway 41, Pearl River, 985-640-5482 LouisianaLandCan.com

Every Saturday The Giddy Up Market 9am–1pm (weather

permitting) Giddy Up Folsom, Live Music from 10am-1pm 82292 LA-25, Folsom, 985- 7051091, GiddyUpGrounds.com

Covington Farmers Market

8am–Noon, 609 N. Columbia Street on side lawn of the Covington Police Department, CovingtonFarmersMarket.net Hammond Farmers Market 8am– Noon, corner of #2 W. Thomas Street and 106 N.W. Railroad Avenue, Downtown Hammond, 985-277-5683, dddhammond.com Mandeville Trailhead Community Market

9am–1pm, Mandeville Trailhead 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville, 985-624-3147, CityofMandeville.com

Every Sunday Abita Springs Art & Farmers Market

10am–2pm, Abita Trailhead, Drive-thru and pedestrian service, 985-892-0711 ext. 7, market@abitaspringsla.gov Claiborne Place Makers Market

10am–2pm, Claiborne Place, 1000 US-190, Covington, facebook.com/ ClaibornePlaceMakersMarket

Camellia City Market 8am–Noon, rain or

shine. 1808 Front Street, Slidell, 985-6407112, facebook.com/CamelliaCityMarket

March 2025 | Sophisticated Woman 41

W ’ H      