SOCIAL Norhthshore | November 2020

SOCIAL NOVEMBER 2020

NoRTHSHORE

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FROM THE EDITOR With so many adversities this year, we are so thankful to share many inspiring stories throughout this November issue. Our community is full of uncounted inspiring stories and our goal is to continue to share more of these with you throughout the holiday season.

In this issue, you will learn more about Community Leader, Beth Brewster, and how she is taking her love for animals and making a big impact in the local animal shelters. With Veterans Day in just a few days, we are honored to share the Bring It Home Northshore charity with you. Another feature you are definitely going to want to see if the Mid-Century Modern home in Mandeville that was previously an aircraft landing runway.

VOLUME 1 · ISSUE 3 PUBLISHER David Renfro

We began to have a glimmer of hope with being able to cover a few community events during the month of October. Seeing so many new faces and many familiar ones gave us a sense of “normal”. Social Northshore has some innovative things coming your way very soon, like WE Social. I know you are all ready as this month kicks off holiday season and so are we! Be sure to be on the lookout for our top picks in our Mistletoe Marketplace, the top guide for local gifts and services.

Our goal is always to highlight and serve our community the best way we can which is by showcasing local businesses, leaders in the community and the charities that so many of us love so much. Thank you all so much for helping us grow into the best resource for all things Social.

JEN MEADOWS

Editor, Social Northshore

SOCIAL NOVEMBER 2020

NoRTHSHORE

EDITOR Jen Meadows COPY EDITOR Lana Cagle SALES David Renfro | 731.499.1414 Jen Meadows | 985.687.8980 PHOTOGRAPHY Casey Varnado Ashley George Eugenia Lubrano of NOLA Real Estate Marketing CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Liesel Schmidt Kayla Bertucci GRAPHIC DESIGN Corning Publishing Company

ON THE COVER:

SOCIAL NORTHSHORE MAGAZINE www.socialnorthshore.com

Stay Connected:

@SocialNorthshore

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HORSEPOWER HAPPY HOUR MONSTER MASH BEAU CHENE WINE TASTING

Ryan, Marci, Lucy, and Hudson Schneider

GET SOCIAL WITH US!

Find Social Northshore on your phone, tablet, or computer!

Make sure to subscribe at www.socialnorthshore.com 4

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8080 Westshore Drive Covington, LA 70433 | 985-900-1212

MBofCovington.com

CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2020 FEATURES

10

Supermom:

14

Bridal:

23

Community Leader:

27

Inspiration:

33

Inspiration:

35

Impact & Give Back:

42

Inspiration:

45

Influencer:

49

Inspiration:

55

La Belle Maison:

68

Supermom:

Olivia Sampey

Leah + Nick Zimmerman

10

14

23

27

45

55

Beth Brewster

Zachary Cresson

Dawson Cochran

Bring It Home Northshore Giovanni

Life of Erin Elizabeth Sundy Dewald Mid-Mod Life

Nicole Allison

THE VIEWS AND COMMENTS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHORS ARE NOT ALWAYS THAT OF OUR EDITORS OR PUBLISHERS. WHILE EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION IN THE PUBLICATION, SOCIAL NORTHSHORE ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS, OMISSIONS OR RESULTANT CONSEQUENCES, INCLUDING ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE ARISING FROM THE RELIANCE ON INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION. ALL IMAGES CONTAINED IN SOCIAL NORTHSHORE MAGAZINE ARE SUBJECT TO THE COPYRIGHT OF SOCIAL NORTHSHORE, BUT NOT LIMITED THERETO. REPRODUCTION OF ANY PART OF THIS MAGAZINE WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED.

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CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2020 71 72 74

Inspiration: Willow Fagot

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Inspiration: Cruz Lee

People You Should Know: Sophie Gammon

46

EVENTS 20 29 38 46 50 53 66

Swinging for Scholarships Golf Tournament Horsepower Happy Hour Fall For Art

29

Beau Chene: Trunk or Treat Wine Tasting at Beau Chene Money Hill Member-Guest Extravaganza Monster Mash

MAINSTAYS 80 New & Noteworthy

66

74

THE VIEWS AND COMMENTS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHORS ARE NOT ALWAYS THAT OF OUR EDITORS OR PUBLISHERS. WHILE EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION IN THE PUBLICATION, SOCIAL NORTHSHORE ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS, OMISSIONS OR RESULTANT CONSEQUENCES, INCLUDING ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE ARISING FROM THE RELIANCE ON INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION. ALL IMAGES CONTAINED IN SOCIAL NORTHSHORE MAGAZINE ARE SUBJECT TO THE COPYRIGHT OF SOCIAL NORTHSHORE, BUT NOT LIMITED THERETO. REPRODUCTION OF ANY PART OF THIS MAGAZINE WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED.

Coming in

DECEMBER ISSUE 8

SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

MISTLETOE MARKETPLACE NEW YEAR & NEW YOU FAMILY TRADITIONS

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One of our passions at the annex is helping people feel more like themselves.

That’s why we offer treatments as unique as the people we serve. Our treatments include specialty facials, makeup services, and other oncology spa services.

Book an appointment with our oncology-trained aesthetician today.

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Safe for any stage of treatment, this tailored facial uses only the gentlest products and is designed to calm, soothe, nourish, and hydrate the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Includes hand and arm massage.

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This service is designed to intensely hydrate the skin prior to radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

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A perfect way to say “thank you” to the people in your life that have been there for you when you need them most. Take a look at our services brochure at the annex and choose the ideal treatment for that special person.

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Celebrate these strong individuals going through treatment for cancer. Open your heart to give oncology spa services to someone who needs pampering. If you would like to donate a service, please just speak with one of our staff members.

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MARY NAPOLI, AESTHETICIAN

BETH ADAMS, ANNEX COORDINATOR

Mary is a licensed aesthetician with almost 20 years of experience and has worked in some of the most upscale spas on the north and south shores.

Mary customizes services for clients who have cancer and are undergoing treatment.

Beth Adams has been in the medical field for over 15 years. As a medical assistant, she cared for patients in an oncology unit in Nebraska and, with her move to Louisiana, has continued to work in various clinic settings. She looks forward to assisting our oncology clients.

4070 Lonesome Rd. Mandeville, LA 70448 | (985) 727-7701 drmarthastewart.com

Olivia SAMPEY SUPERMOM

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

T

hese days, being a stay-at-home mom doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t work—it may just mean that you work from home. For Etsy entrepreneur and Instagram influencer Olivia Sampey, home is where the creativity happens...it just has to be worked in during nap time.

The mother of a toddler, Sampey has learned the art of juggling it all, scheduling her work around naps, feedings, playtime, and bedtime so that she can still do what she loves. While it can sometimes be a complicated balancing act, she’s made

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SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

her job dovetail with her role as a mother and include the tiny person who’s watching her every move. “I kind of just fell into being a social media influencer about a year ago,” says Sampey, who previously owned a boutique but decided to become a stay-at-home mom when she became pregnant. Now the owner of an Etsy shop called AllShineDesigns and the content creator of “Life with Liv and Viv,” she uses her creativity to make whimsical play accessories and posts the daily happenings in life with a toddler. “It was a perfect fit, showing how I try to make each and every day magical, no matter where we are,” she explains. “Being able to make my own schedule and create for my Etsy shop after Vivian is in bed or during nap time (fingers

crossed) is a total blessing, and I’m totally thankful that people love to follow along on our mother-daughter journey on Facebook and Instagram.”

Naturally, the polished picture presented online isn’t the full story; but even the chaos is something that Sampey treasures. “Being a working mom is unpredictable,” admits the 32 year-old social media maven. “I might look like I have it all together, but I’m just a magical mess with a lot of coffee, sequins, and snacks! I’ve learned that it’s okay to take a break and to step away and not take a picture, share a story, or be the first to post your seasonal content. It’s such a fast-paced world, and social media can really make it seem even faster and smaller,”

she says. “I’ve also learned not to play the comparison game. We spend time taking pictures and editing and all that jazz in the perfect outfits, with the perfect settings and lighting; but I can promise you that, as I’m posting, I’m chilling on the sofa in a lounge suit drinking a Diet Coke and probably watching Disney+.”

Clearly, Sampey doesn’t shy away from candor—and it is her real, down-to-Earth personality that she most wants her daughter to see and remember her for. “I want her to remember the fun, the happy moments, and the love,” says Sampey, who credits her husband for helping her keep it all together. “I want her to look back on the magic and the seasonal sprinkles I put on her pancakes. I also hope that she remembers the lows as well as all of the highs; that, no matter what, we are all together, and that’s what matters. I’m so proud of Vivian and the sweet soul that she is. She makes me want to be a better mother each and every day. She’s my reason, and everything my husband and I do is for her.”

As a working mom, Sampey hopes that her daughter sees her example and is inspired to always follow her own passions. While her job may be a bit unconventional, it’s one that has given her precious time with the little girl who will one day grow up. “Most of what we do for ‘Life with Liv and Viv’ is what I would do in a normal day, anyway—I just probably take way more pictures than the average person!” she says with a laugh.

“If we play dress up, have a fun snack board, or a fry-day lunch date (on Fridays, we have French fry lunch dates—usually at the Rusty Pelican), I document just as I would if I wasn’t a creator.”

Naturally creative, Sampey is also a natural when it comes to loving her little girl.

Every post and picture is a clear display of that love—and that’s something that will long outlast any trends on social media.

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BRIDE

14

Nick and Leah SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

HeartBeats

By Liesel Schmidt

T

hey say that the musicians always get the girl, and it couldn’t have been truer for Nick Zimmerman when Leah Hale saw him play the drums one Sunday while she was visiting his church. Intrigued by the guy whose sticks seemed to create magic, the college sophomore asked her best friend to set her up with the drummer boy…and the rest, as they say, is…music. With a really great drum solo.

Two and a half years of dating later, their song had reached its hook; and Nick had the perfect words waiting. “Nick and I both live in Baton Rouge; and one Saturday when we were trying to figure out what to do, he came up with the idea to take a trip to New Orleans and go to City Park for the day and then to dinner afterwards,” recalls Leah, who now works as a digital coordinator at Lamar Advertising. “These plans weren’t out of the ordinary, so I didn’t think much of it. When we got to the park, he walked me down a path that led to an open field where he had set up a display of a bunch of pictures of us throughout our time dating. The rest was a little fuzzy because I was so shocked and excited, but it was definitely a sweet surprise and something I’ll remember forever.”

NOVEMBER 2020

15

Naturally, the next part came with a ring, and their best friends were on hand—hiding in a bush—to take more pictures to add to their collection.

Just over a year later, on July 18, 2020, there were even more memorable moments to capture of film…and more words to add to their love song.

Wearing a beautiful vintage-inspired gown with lace detailing on the bodice and an A-line skirt, Leah walked down the aisle at Maison Lafitte to meet Nick at the altar. In the company of their closest friends and family, the couple exchanged their vows in an intimate ceremony and were pronounced man and wife, having promised their love forever. “Like many others getting married during this time, we decided three months before the day to have a smaller wedding with only our close family and our bridal party,” Leah explains of the celebration that had to be completely re-worked after the pandemic turned their original plan for a large wedding on its head. “We wanted everyone who attended our wedding to feel safe; and while we would have loved to have all of our guests attend the way we had previously planned, it still ended up being the most perfect day.”

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SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

BRIDE

Part of that perfect day came a bit unconventionally, but it was something that Leah will never forget. “Our photographer, Emily Songer, asked if we wanted to do a first touch instead of a first look; so before the wedding, we held hands without seeing each other and talked before the wedding.

It was so special to be able to talk to each other and share how excited we were to get married,” Leah says. “We hadn’t spoken to one another that whole day before the first touch, so it made us feel a little less nervous before walking down the aisle.”

Having been announced as Mr. and Mrs. Zimmerman, Leah and Nick joined their guests for an on-sight reception at the breathtakingly beautiful historic antebellumstyle home. After dining on a seated meal catered by the Lakehouse in Mandeville, the newlyweds cut into a three-tiered confection of traditional wedding cake flavored crumb with vanilla buttercream frosting and adorned in gold and greenery.

All danced out, they were sent off to their honeymoon in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, where they spent their days relaxing and looking forward to writing the next words in a new song that’s just getting started.

NOVEMBER 2020

17

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OAK HARBOR GOLF CLUB | GOLF TOURNAMENT

Grayling Richard, Susan Johannnsen, Nick Richard

Robert Condon, Kirstie Leland, Renee Warren, Louis Ochoa

Elizabeth Sconzert, Mimi Dossett, Rhonda & Hugh Bagby

SWINGING for SCHOLARSHIPS

GOLF TOURNAMENT Photos by Ashley George Jessica Hester, Jen Messina, Lacey Osborne, Rosie Knop

The St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce’s Swinging for Scholarships Golf Tournament at Oak Harbor Golf Club in Slidell was a success! Proceeds from the tournament fund scholarships for St. Tammany students planning to attend a Louisiana college or university and major in business.

Players enjoyed, Putting for Proof, Closest to the Hole and Longest Drive contests as well as business networking opportunities, food from Middendorf ’s Seafood Restaurant and Patton’s Caterers, and knowing that proceeds will benefit local scholars.

Barbara & Michael Greer

David Schneider, Loy Ernst, Aaron Rushin, Bubba Mingus

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SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

Ric Poirier, Rick Legnon

Craig Mullet, Jon Nelson, Mike Gambrell, Mark Toranto

GRACIOUS

LIVING NEVER GOES

OUT OF STYLE

Eric Calvin, Sam Wheeler, Teresa Krentel

Terre Stewart, Kelsey Parker

Jess Rainey, Christie Garner

The Northshore’s premier full-service retirement community Christwood offers a choice of cottages and apartment homes for independent living, with all maintenance services and membership in our Community Center included.

Residents choose from gourmet dining options, a host of amenities, and an array of activities, entertainment, special interest clubs, and more.

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THE BEST CARE FOR YOUR BEST FRIEND Jeanne Beck, DVM

Catherine Mauberret, DVM

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NORTHLAKEVETERINARYHOSPITAL.COM

COMMUNITY Leader

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

THE ANIMAL LOVER BETH BREWSTER

D

esigner pet leashes; dog strollers; gourmet pet food made with fresh, organic, all natural ingredients.

It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that people are extremely dedicated to their pets, giving them all the love and care they would a member of the family. But what about the millions of dogs and cats who don’t have that kind of love in their lives?

In St. Tammany Parish alone, the number of animals who come through the shelter system is staggering, and it takes someone with vision and a clear plan of action to really make a difference. Fortunately, the St. Tammany Parish Department of Animal Services found just that person in Beth Brewster. Taking on the role as the new Director, Brewster is turning things around in big ways, putting new things in place to move animals through the shelter system more quickly and building on some initiatives that had been previously implemented but needed reworking to make them more effective. At the heart of whatever she’s doing, however, is her deep and abiding love for animals.

“I love all animals, and for as long as I can remember, I’ve always brought home strays,” says Brewster, who shares her home with her husband and a menagerie that includes four dogs and four cats.

NOVEMBER 2020

23

It is precisely that dedication to animals that gives Brewster a passion for her job—and fuels her to make a lasting impact. Over the past few months of her tenure, Brewster has increased play and exercise for animals at the shelter, changed hours of operation, and re-affirmed partnerships with credible rescue groups and animal welfare non-profits.

The shelter also participated in an extremely successful nationwide adopt-and-donate event in August fittingly called “Clear the Shelters,” during which all fees were waived for the entire month. 72 animals found their forever homes through the event, and an additional 200-plus animals have been transported through Wings of Rescue flights so far in 2020.

Adoptions, fosters, and transports have all contributed to a marked decrease in the number of shelter animals; and a more manageable number has given Brewster the ability to begin implementing a canine enrichment program designed to increase play, socialize dogs in groups as well as individually, increase dog walking, and provide positive reinforcement training methods with treats. Additional pens are currently being constructed for added exercise resources. Naturally, the feline population is being given equal attention, and the shelter has purchased toys for the kittens, added scratching posts to the adoption room, and purchased feral cat dens for the isolation room.

“I have so many goals here,” says Brewster, who was previously the interim director at St. Bernard Parish Animal Control Center.

“I want to increase our live release rate; implement a parish-wide Trap, Neuter, and Return program for cats; and develop community programs that educate and help keep pets in their homes.”

Other plans she has in her sights include increasing the number of shelter volunteers; expanding the foundation of credible, compassionate rescue programs already in

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SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

place; purchasing new beds for all shelter animals; educating and more effectively utilizing fosters; and acquiring new caging for the isolation room to increase the prevention of disease transfer between animals.

In partnership with Mardi Paws and Wings of Rescue, a recent fundraising initiative called “Let the Fur Fly” secured $25,000 in funding for a late-September flight for the St. Tammany Parish Department of

COMMUNITY LEADER

Animal Services as well as other high-intake shelters in neighboring parishes. With such success fueling them, a new goal was set to fund a second flight during the month of October and secure funding for the purchase of necessities for the shelter.

“The work that we do is important,” says Brewster. “We not only protect the public from dangerous animals but also provide a safe haven for animals that are being mistreated, are unwanted, or have been running loose.”

In all that she does, it’s clear that Brewster is deeply dedicated to the animals that depend on her. She’s making St. Tammany Parish a safer haven for its four-legged members and giving them a greater hope of finding a forever home where they’ll be loved—and that’s a job well done.

“

We not only protect the public from dangerous animals but also provide a safe haven for animals that are being mistreated, are unwanted, or have been running loose.”

Join the SOCIAL Team Social Northshore is looking to add excited new members to our team! We have immediate openings for Event Photographers and Sales Representatives.

CONTACT US:

E-mail Jen@socialnorthshore.com for more info!

NOVEMBER 2020

25

COMING JAN 2021 SOCIAL

MAGAZINE

We are LEADERS We are CREATORS We are INNOVATORS We are WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS

Join SOCIAL NORTHSHORE as we celebrate Women in Business.

Reach out to see how you and your business can be featured.

Jen@socialnorthshore.com or David@socialnorthshore.com

Cresson

Inspiration

ZACHARY

BY KAYLA BERTUCCI The pediatric specialists at Children’s Hospital New Orleans are not only experts at healing sick children, they are experts at giving families hope during times of uncertainty. Take eight-year-old Zachary Cresson, for example.

This little boy embodies the personality of a fun-loving, and outgoing child. He enjoys what many typical children love like being outside, going on nature walks, games, and swimming.

But just last year, Zachary’s parents Lisa and Mike started to notice something unusual about their son’s health. There were sporadic days when Zachary experienced bad headaches and even some vomiting. After a few weeks with the same symptoms, Zachary was diagnosed with a brain tumor and was immediately taken to Children’s Hospital.

Dr. Jerome Volk, who specializes in pediatric neurosurgery, helped put worried patients Lisa and Mike at ease by caring for young Zachary.

He explained that Zachary’s tumor was very large and was causing significant pressure in his head. The family was worried about the serious diagnosis but stayed optimistic. Zachary underwent surgery, and preliminary tests of the tumor suggested that it was a low grade/less aggressive lesion.

“Due to this finding, we knew that the best possible outcome for Zachary would be dependent on the amount of surgical resection

(or how much of the tumor we could remove).

Because of this, the surgery lasted 11 hours so that we could ensure we got a complete resection.

The final test confirmed the low grade/less aggressive diagnosis. The tumor was benign, and there was no need for chemotherapy or radiation,” explained Dr. Volk.

That’s when Zachary went on to face his second battle. Because of the size and location of the tumor, Zachary experienced significant weakness on the right side of his body after surgery. He required a stay in Children’s inpatient rehabilitation program where he thrived. “The nurses soon got Zachary started in physical therapy so he could get back to his normal, fun-loving, and crazy self !” said Zachary’s mom, Lisa.

“He looked forward to going down to the rehab center every day and bonded with his fellow patients, especially the ones with similar diagnoses,” recalled Dr. Volk. “He would always enter the gym by announcing his presence, “Zachary is here.”

evidence of recurrence of the tumor. Through it all his family was always at his side providing the strength and support that he needed.”

Zachary also got to enjoy the many events that took place within the walls of Children’s Hospital New Orleans. He lit up at Christmas as he was able to visit with Santa Claus in the Lauricella Pavilion and make a delicious gingerbread house.

He practiced throwing in a game of bean bag toss as the Baylor Bears football team came for a visit before competing in the 2020 New Orleans Sugar Bowl. Every event that was held, Zachary was present and eager to do what he did best, which is being a kid!

“Zachary has received amazing care from all of his doctors and nurses. The staff at the hospital definitely makes everyone feel like family,” said Lisa. “Everyone there made our stay enjoyable even though our circumstances weren’t what we ever imagined. We couldn’t have asked for a better place to be!”

“While most children look forward to the weekend, Zachary was the opposite because weekend days meant the gym was closed. He continued to improve and progressed from being in a wheelchair to walking and even dancing.

His dance moves soon became legendary.

His follow up imaging continued to show no

NOVEMBER 2020

27

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HORSEPOWER HAPPY HOUR | COVINGTON

Shelley and Guy Winstead, with Phoebe Whealdon

Laurie McCants and Chris Masingill

Lynn Abide, JK Khamiss, and Sherry Blades

Tracy and Barbara Napolitano

Tiffany McCarthy, Ally Byrd, and Timothy Byrd

Photos by Casey Varnado

The Mercedes-Benz of Covington and Junior League of Greater Covington hosted Horsepower Happy Hour at Mercedes Benz in Covington. It was an opportunity to meet The New Orleans Polo Club players and few of their horses.

Patrons of the event enjoyed food and beverages as they gazed upon the new vehicles and mingled with the wonderful staff of Mercedes-Benz of Covington.

Marcos Alberdi and Valentino Echezarreta

Elsie Saunders and Christian Martin

NOVEMBER 2020

29

Amy Cuneo, Tika Marriot, and Ally Byrd

Jane and Scott Quillin

Kyle Miller, Camille Walther, and Brent Sanders

Abby Dumatrait, Caroline France, and Kimberly Darr

Krista Eleew and Tiffany McCarthy

Gary Ellish, Wayne and Laurie McCants, and Patti Ellish

Jan Lugenbuhl and Courtney Jenkins

Sean Rackley and Dr. Sebastian Koga

8080 WESTSHORE DR | COVINGTON, LA | 985-900-1212 | MBOFCOVINGTON.COM

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SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

HORSEPOWER HAPPY HOUR | COVINGTON

Paige and Michael Reine

Joe and Tammie Mills

Valentino Echezarreta and Marcos Alberdi

Judge Page McClendon and Cathy Rackley

Brandon Black and Logan O’Leary

Doug Parsons and David Fennelly

Elliot Goorley, Judy Eberts, and Kathy Lorio

Brian and Kimberly Darr

Alan Snow and Preston Valois

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31

k c a B inool h c S

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Cochran

Inspiration

DAWSON

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

T

he words “brain tumor” are scary for anyone to hear; but for a child, those words are the stuff nightmares are made of. On October 21, 2019, that nightmare became all too real for then 11 year-old, Dawson Cochran.

Diagnosed with a large astrocytoma located on the cerebellum of his brain after an emergency CT scan showed the mass, Dawson was transferred from Our Lady of the Angels Hospital to Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital, where they were better equipped for his care. “Knowing that OLOL Children’s was a Franciscan Missionaries hospital, there was no doubt that that was where I wanted my child to be cared for,” says his mother, Emily Cochran, who works as a healthcare administrator. “Their values and mission for serving the community in a Christian-based environment made it an easy choice for us. One of the hospital’s slogans when they opened was ‘We built amazing,’ and they really did. ” Dawson’s transfer was only the first step of a hard road ahead, one that involved multiple surgeries and a great deal of time spent waiting for favorable outcomes that often

seemed elusive, despite the level of care he All of that would be a lot to deal with for was receiving. Following a craniotomy to anyone, but Dawson’s spirit is unbroken. remove the tumor, the dura of his brain did “He has endured more physical pain in the not heal properly and resulted in a massive past year than most people do in a lifetime,” pseudomeningocele, which was caused by Cochran says of her son, who wants to be the leakage of spinal fluid from his brain a high school teacher and coach baseball into the soft tissue around the base of his when he grows up. “Even in the midst of brain. A second surgery attempted to repair everything, he never got upset or cried a the hole in his dura with a “patch” and single tear when we told him about his placed an external ventricular shunt to drain tumor, and he was laughing and joking as leaking spinal fluid to the outside of his body they rolled him off to all three brain surgeries. through a closed drainage system.

When he could see the worry on our faces, he told us that everything was going to be Then 14 days were spent in the ICU fine. He is so full of love, kindness, and to observe whether the patch would be genuine concern for everyone around him effective enough for the removal of the that his spirit gives me hope for the future external drain. When it wasn’t, Dawson of this world.” underwent a third surgery to place a permanent ventriculoperitoneal shunt in his brain, which drains spinal fluid from his brain to his abdomen. Dawson, now 12, currently undergoes MRIs every six months to ensure that the drain continues to function properly and that there is no evidence of tumor regeneration. He will continue to have frequent MRIs for at least 10 years to monitor his brain, and the function of his VP shunt will continue to be monitored for the rest of his life.

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L KIDS IN UNIFORM

IMPACT & GIVE BACK BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

iving in this post-9/11 world, we seem to have a more keen appreciation for the hard work and sacrifices made by our veterans. We respect them and marvel at their selfless bravery, thankful that they stand in defense of our freedoms and protect us from the threat of terrorism that has so shaken this nation—and the world—to its very core. But even in as many ways as we try to express our gratitude, far too often we fall short of giving them the honor and appreciation they truly deserve. We go about our daily lives without realizing that our freedom to do those ordinary things is due to the sacrifices made by the men and women in uniform who serve or have served our country in military service.

NOVEMBER 2020

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IMPACT & GIVE BACK

Unfortunately, it sometimes takes the prompting of national holidays to offer us a reminder to formally stand up and say thank you to our service members. But for those who live in the midst of military life—on the fringes of bases and posts, as members of a military family, as friends of those who serve —the costs and the trials are witnessed on a daily basis.

“

Even in our shortcomings, however, we try our best as a nation to make their lives better, to honor them and reward their efforts. But what about their children? For the children of deployed military personnel, life is often turned on its head.

One or sometimes both parents are absent from special occasions, missing birthdays and holidays, their seats empty at school plays and sports events. But more than that, they are gone from the everyday—a missing piece in the puzzle of life.

It was with these children in mind that Jackelyn Gallo, Victoria Langlinais, Jean Hoover, and Kevin O’Neill founded Bring It Home Northshore in 2013, recognizing the need to provide

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SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

Since its inception, BIHNS has helped more than 100 children through over

40 deployments, with a recreational support program that provides grants

to children of deployed personnel.

support for these, the youngest members of the military. For even as they do not wear the uniform themselves, they are the heart of our men and women in service, often the very reason they fight for freedom. Over the past seven years, BIHNS has made it their mission to be there for these children when their parents are unable to be. “Military families sacrifice so much in support of their service member and our country,” says Board President Joanne Moreno. “This is why we are so passionate about supporting these resilient families and children.”

Since its inception, BIHNS has helped more than 100 children through over 40 deployments, with a recreational support program that provides grants to children of deployed personnel. Using the funding they raise through donations as well as two annual fundraising events, the organization has paid for a wide range of activities that help the children of deployed parents create a memory and have fun in the midst of what is often a difficult time.

They are given unique experiences and have the opportunity to do many things that would otherwise be an impossibility with a parent gone. Rock climbing memberships, recreational soccer league dues, movie theater tickets, Audubon Institute annual memberships, tickets for Disney on Ice and Teddy Bear Tea, hunting trips, and fishing trips are just some of the activities that BIHNS offers, keenly aware of what may give a child reason to smile and take their mind off of the empty seat at the dinner table—even if just for awhile.

Additionally, they host a “Family Day” event for all currently enrolled families to enjoy together. “The goal is to help the families connect with other families in similar situations and expand their support system,” says Moreno.

It may seem simple, but the impact is great. Fortunately, the importance of their mission is being recognized; and in 2019, the organization experienced record growth. Last year, their annual Warrior Wing Cook-off was recognized as the Best Charity Event in East St. Tammany, and more than $50,000 was raised through donations, grants, and annual sponsors. Even with the cancellation of their scheduled fundraisers in the wake of COVID-19, they soldier

on, never losing sight of their purpose. As 2021 approaches, in fact, the board is looking to expand their recreational support program into other areas such as education to provide even more support to the local military community. When it comes to kids, they’ve got boots on the ground.

If you know of a family with an upcoming deployment or would like more information on Bring It Home Northshore, Inc., call (985) 205-8770 or visit bihns.org.

NOVEMBER 2020

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COVINGTON | FALL FOR ART

Kristine, Quinn & David Murray

Abby Sembera (artist), Wendy Sembera, Mary & John Brocato

Tiffini Helg, Monica Gallardo, Liz Bragdon, &Ryan Helg (Artist)

for

FALL ART Photos by Casey Varnado

Sally & David Buquoi

Rachel, Jennifer, & Ed Gaudet

Judge Page McClendon & Nancy Smith

Rock Whittington & Marianne Angeli Rodriguez (artist)

The Fall for Art, hosted by the St. Tammany Art Association & Covington businesses, in Downtown Covington was a free event open to the public to showcase the local artist.

The local artist and business greeted the community as they strolled along Columbia Street enjoying the evening.

Festive music echoed from a local restaurant filling the air, reminding the people to have fun and enjoy the arts.

Jeannie & Brian Dwyer

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SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

Josh, Stephanie, Allison, & Charles Farr

John T., John & Sandy Barry, Mary Jane Parker (artist), Payton & Tom Barry

NO JOINING FEE, NO CONTRACT GOOD THROUGH 11/30/20 Take it from Randy Becnel, Wellness Director at the Community Center at Christwood, regular exercise plays a tremendous role in positively impacting the health of older adults. Public health organizations also emphasize the importance of following a fitness regime to maintain good health and stamina. For that purpose, the Community Center at Christwood serves adult members from the greater Northshore Community age 55+ as well as Christwood residents.

More than a health club, The Community Center is a complete health and wellness center that encourages active aging. Offering an indoor heated pool with six 25-yard lanes ideal for lap swimming and a wide range of aquatic classes, spacious exercise rooms with state of the art specialty equipment including cyber cycles, bikes that exercise your brain and body at the same time.

COMING SOON

Yoga, tai chi and line dancing are among the classes offered, along with inspiring programs and social events. Our member’s goals set the agenda in a soothing environment with the help our professional staff.

The Lotus Spa is conveniently located at the Community Center offering hair and skin care services along with therapeutic massage and facials using Eminence organic spa products.

O2 Physical Therapy is also located within the Community Center and offers both land based and aquatic therapies. Their physical therapists specialize in Orthopedic and Manual Therapy, Occupational/Industrial Rehabilitation, Pain Management, Aquatic Rehabilitation, and Women’s Health. (

)

Call us at 985-292-1234 to learn how we can support you and your fitness goals.

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Giovanni

Inspiration

“I’m blown away by how thorough these surgeons have been explaining my child’s conditions and what types of procedures he will have to face and why.”

BY KAYLA BERTUCCI

S

avanna Lewis has a lot to be thankful for this blood flow. In order to maintain adequate blood November, as she’s celebrating the life and flow to the lungs, Giovanni underwent a catheter growth of her baby boy, Giovanni. Born intervention where two stents were placed in the at Slidell Memorial Hospital, Giovanni seemed patent ductus arteriosus or PDA, a vessel that to be a picturesque, healthy child until a nurse was required to be kept open for him to receive noticed his breathing was a little off. That’s when blood flow to the lungs for the first few months of he made his way to Children’s Hospital New his life, followed by an open-heart surgery at four Orleans by helicopter to the Neonatal Intensive months of age.

Care Unit, followed by a stay in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit.

“He is the ultimate fighter. Doctors and nurses were amazed at how quickly he recovered from his “It was a major shock,” explains Savanna. “This open-heart surgery. We were sent home just three is my first child and during my entire pregnancy days later, and life felt normal. Besides his daily everything was checking out just fine. My husband medications, Giovanni really is a happy and smiley and I have no family history of any type of heart little boy who loves Mickey Mouse,” Savannah says. condition, but after EKG and Echocardiogram tests, we learned our baby has Heterotaxy Syndrome.”

Giovanni continues to grow and develop much like other babies.

Heterotaxy Syndrome is a rare birth defect involving the heart and other organs. Organs “He sees a specialist with Children’s Hospital’s such as the liver, spleen, intestines, stomach, and Early Steps Program, and they are happy lungs may appear in abnormal places in the with how he’s progressing with his condition,” chest and abdomen. Giovanni’s heart most likely explains Savanna. “We can’t really put him on formed abnormally during the first trimester of his stomach for tummy time and things like that pregnancy. The right side of his heart formed because of his surgery. Our healthcare providers and mimicked the left side of his heart. This told us to let him do that naturally, and all of the unique arrangement has caused Giovanni to live sudden, he’s been rolling on his stomach and with a serious congenital heart defect. playing for the first time!”

The heart defect was comprised of a small left ventricle, with large holes between the upper and lower chambers of the heart, and a narrow outflow to the lungs that resulted in decreased 42

SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

As Children’s Hospital New Orleans specialists continue to monitor Giovanni’s condition, Savanna is grateful for the dedication and care her baby boy has been given.

“I’m blown away by how thorough these surgeons have been explaining my child’s conditions and what types of procedures he will have to face and why,” says Savanna. “Even the nurses who look after Giovanni in the CICU and post-surgery have been so comforting and accommodating.

We’ve just been very pleased with everything and everyone.”

Giovanni will require another final surgery when he is 3 to 4 years of age. Doctors are hopeful that this surgery will be uneventful and that he will make a quick recovery.

“At Children’s Hospital, we offer highly specialized care for children that enables infants like Giovanni with complex congenital heart disease, to grow and develop into children and young adults. As a result, this has been very powerful in transforming the lives of families in Louisiana.” Dr. Mallula says.

Light Up The Season

for kids like Jonathan Jonathan spent the first 100 days of his life in the Children’s Hospital New Orleans NICU. Born with Treacher Collins syndrome, a genetic condition that affects the bones and tissues in his face, Jonathan has endured multiple surgeries. His mom, Briana, says he always comes out of surgery with a smile on his face. This resilient twoyear-old loves to play outside and be around other kids!

Help us help kids like Jonathan get the extraordinary care they need.

Donate to Children’s Hospital New Orleans Nov 1 - Dec 31 Online at chnola.org/lights At your local PJ’s Coffee at the register

Influencer HI

@LifeofErinElizabeth

I’m Erin! I am a wife to my amazing Marine Corp Veteran husband, Josh, and mother to my adventurous Irish twins, Sloan and Dash. Currently residing in beautiful Mandeville, LA. I am a retired NFL cheerleader for the New Orleans Saints turned mommy and influencer. I share everything motherhood, home décor, fashion, beauty, fitness and lifestyle with a dash of comedy! So grab a glass of wine and join me in the adventure called “lifeoferinelizabeth” I hope you stay for a while!

 @LIFEOFERINELIZABETH 724 POSTS

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NOVEMBER 2020

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BEAU CHENE | TRUNK OR TREAT

Lyndi, Brian, Jillian, Evelyn and Myles Smith

Laura, Vincent, Riley, Landon and Drew Cangiamilla

Trunk orTreat

Donna Dauterive, Frances Forrette

Sawyer Donegan, Patti Kindl

Photos by Casey Varnado

Beau Chene Country Club hosted their 1st annual Trunk or Treat like no other, as the adults and children alike were dressed in their favorite costume trying to score the next haul of candy. Laughter could be heard as families strolled through the outside arena of cars, trucks, and SUV’s.

Catherine Deroche, Lynse and Zoey Montero

Ryan, Marci, Lucy, and Hudson Schneider

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Autumn Maggart and children

Courtney, Kyle, Nora and Alex Gulledge

Tracy and Christopher Deroche

Alex Ceulemans, Stacey Scheib, Steven Ceulemans

Mikaela , T. C., Thomas, Libby, Oscar and Topher Ford

SOCIAL

Courtney and Jason Briggs, and children

NoRTHSHORE

Elise Muller, Annelle Clinton, Betsey Muller

& NORAH TEXADA

DAN, ERIN, PALMER, MILLER Edward and Weeks Dauterive

Pete Steffens, Lori Raspino Steffens, Louis and Carol Butler

Danielle Standridge

Brian and Alexa Rotolo with children

NOVEMBER 2020

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BEAU CHENE | TRUNK OR TREAT “We love working with the team at VIP New Orleans & Social Northshore. They make the process so easy for us, and truly care about our success!”

Dash, Twyla, Meredith, Jason and Millie Oke

– KRISTEN CALLAHAN Owner of Kiki & Lolli’s

Judy Pemberton, Peyton, Bethany, Brad, Henry, Ellie and Cole Lerille

NORTHSHORE

CONTACT US TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS!

info@socialnorthshore.com

Hope, Blake and Richard Wilson

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SOCIAL NORTHSHORE

Dewald

Inspiration

SUNDY

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

E

ven in an age of incredible medical advancements, there is no way to prepare for some of the complications of development during pregnancy; but despite those complications, Sundy Dewald’s introduction to the world was one of the happiest days of her parents’ lives.

Born with a rare congenital condition called Goldenhar syndrome that is characterized by the incomplete development of the ear, nose, soft palate, lip, and mandible generally on one side of the body as well as growing issues with internal organs, Sundy spent the first two weeks of her life in the NICU at Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge. From there, she was lined up with a pediatric surgeon, neurosurgeon, urologist, cardiologist, and nephrologist. The course of action needed to enable the new baby’s development was a lengthy road, requiring multiple procedures and a great deal of trust in her doctors’ abilities—among them, Dr. Faith Hansbrough, Chief of Pediatric Surgery at Our Lady of the Lake.

Each day, Sundy underwent dilatation of a fistula until she was big enough to

her airway. She also has spina bifida occulta with a tethered spinal cord and an overactive bladder with urine retention, which requires intermittent catheterization five times a day.

have surgery to repair her imperforate anus. “Dr. Hansbrough saw Sundy at birth and performed the surgery, and we were very pleased with the care she received. Dr. Hansbrough did an excellent job, and everything that we needed to do was always very well explained when we went for clinic appointments,” says Sundy’s father, Derek Dewald.

A megaobstructive ureter required ureter reimplantation surgery, and diuretic renal scans and bladder pressure tests monitored the function of a single kidney that is swollen and compromised. An additional procedure removed ear tags from her face.

A dermoid on Sundy’s right eye causes astigmatism, requiring the intervention of an ophthalmologist; and her tonsils and adenoids have been removed to clear her

So many things for one tiny person to handle, but Sundy’s happy spirit is a constant inspiration to her parents. “She amazes me every day,” says Dewald. “She is learning to read, she runs, and she plays. To look at her, you wouldn’t know she has all of these health issues. I am so proud of the young lady she is growing up to be. Even with all the stress and unknowns, I wouldn’t change one thing about her.”

At seven years old, Sundy’s kidney function is currently still adequate to allay the need for a transplant, though one will likely be necessary in the future. She may also one day need surgery for her tethered spinal cord. Even so, the little girl has an incredible love for life and dreams of one day doing the very thing that has made such a difference for her: helping people by becoming a doctor.

NOVEMBER 2020

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BEAU CHENE | WINE DINNER

Dr. Wes Alden, Beth Lachin, Vinn Venable & Michael Lachin

Glen Durham & Chef Hoise Bourgeois

Alan Sheen, Sharon Lamy, Kenneth Lamy & Joan Sheen

Gourmet Dinner and Wine Tasting

Morgan & JJ Dore

Photos by Ashley George

The Prisoner Wine Company hosted a wine dinner at Beau Chene Country Club for their members. It was a night filled with Wine and gourmet food selections from Executive Chef Hosie Bourgeois and his team.

Rachel Entzel and Kenleigh Almedia

Joe Pavlovich & Glen Durham

Leon Benoit III, Erin Benoit, Stephanie McKeough & Matthew Wollenweber

Don Beaver, Ashley Mayfield & Matt Campagne

SOCIAL

MAGAZINE

COMING JAN 2021

Email Jen@socialnorthshore.com or David@socialnorthshore.com for more info!

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To be the exception, I need exceptional care.

Exceptional care rises beyond one city, one hospital, one clinic. Exceptional care reaches for something groundbreaking, life-changing. Our Lake of the Lake Children’s Health believes connected healthcare across Louisiana helps build a stronger, healthier generation. Now is the time to be exceptional for Louisiana’s exceptional kids. Visit ololchildrens.org/believe for more.

Believe in me.

FLIP. CLICK. TAP. The Best of the Northshore at Your Fingertips

NORTHSHORE

@SocialNorthshore

@SocialNorthshore

@SocialNSMag

MEMBER-GUEST EXTRAVAGANZA | MONEY HILL

Mike & Mae Robichaux, Wanda & Louie Brazan

Jack Branch, Matt Greene, Gavin Vegas

Ashley Pabst, Jennifer Brasuell, Toni Patterson, Erin Patterson, Paula Achord

MEMBER-GUEST E X T R AVA G A N Z A

Mark Maricelli, Elroy Pabst

Photos by Kathy Prokasy

Money Hill hosted their 22nd annual Member-Guest Extravaganza event at their Country Club. Guest were greeted with cocktails, amazing food, and were treated to the sounds of the Escalade band to add to the festivities!

Aaron Brasuell, Jay Meral, Elroy Pabst, FJ Eastman

Jerry & MeMe Leonard, Andrea & Mike Cosse

Mackenna Richardson, Conner Smith, Erin & Keith Patterson, Jeff Patterson.

Jude & Stephanie Guidry, Michael Chappetta, Michelle Chappetta, Louis Cannizzaro, John Chappetta

COMING JAN 2021 SOCIAL

MAGAZINE Email Jen@socialnorthshore.com or David@socialnorthshore.com for more info!

NOVEMBER 2020

53

THE

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

MID-MOD

W

ith its butterfly roof and sharp, linear design, the house that sits at

179 Judge Tanner Lane in Mandeville could easily be taken for one

of the mid-century homes of Palm Springs, its black and brown stack-bond

laid brick and transom windows offering homage to the architectural details so iconic to the style. While it may have only been completed in January, its

LIFE

signature look belies its young age, giving the impression that it could very well be a treasure plucked from an age gone by and given new life.

NOVEMBER 2020

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I

I

t was precisely that feeling that was at the soul of Mitchell Guillot’s design for his home. His deep love for all things mid-century modern is the thread that tied it all together to create an updated take on the style that took its best aspects and married them to a modernized aesthetic. It all starts outside, with that inverted gable roof that was popularized in the 1950s by architect William Krisel. Eye-catching on its own, the roofline is but a prelude to what lies inside the home, just beyond the bright turquoise doors—and it does not disappoint. As anyone with knowledge of the era would hope, there are bright pops of color everywhere…and Shag at every turn.

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Loved for his quirky art, Josh Agle—better known as Shag—has become somewhat of an icon in the mid-century design world, and Guillot’s collection of his pieces shows just what makes them so special. Imbued with unique personality and humor, the artwork offers a sense of whimsy that is perfect for the home, bringing with them color that seems to pop off the walls and serve as the foundation for all points of color around them. “I had a vision of a bold contrast to today’s new construction, and incorporating Shag’s fun, bright art brought in a fictional 1950’s theme that was perfect for the overall design,” says Guillot.

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It is the continuity of that design—the “all in” aspect— that makes his home such a treasure. Anchoring it all, walnut-look luxury vinyl planking laid in a herringbone pattern offers the feel of wood with a durability level to withstand the wear and tear of two miniature Schnauzers.

The flooring flows continuously throughout, joining the open-plan living room to a kitchen that is every bit as distinctive as one would hope in a home where every detail is meticulously matched to an era of uniqueness.

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Creating the dividing line between the two spaces, an eight-foot waterfall island wrapped in titanium granite offers the perfect amount of space for food prep, with an under-mounted stainless steel deep single sink. Set against an entire wall of black and white tiles with brass inlays, the wall mounted flat-front cabinetry offers a darker contrast to the flooring, with “whale tail” satin-finish brass hardware that distracts minimally from the sleek lines. It’s a design that uses space to its greatest advantage and highlights the kitchen as a stylish accent—which makes Guillot’s choice of appliances all the more fitting. “My appliances are the gem of my kitchen,” says the 34 year-old, who works as the operations manager for his family’s trucking company and owns his own residential design firm on the side. Trimmed in satin brass accents and painted in a pastel turquoise with salmon colored knobs, the appliances are one-of-akind and custom ordered from Blue Star.

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Serving St. Tammany Parish since 2002!

Home never looked so good.

I have moved around a lot, and this was my fourth new home all in the same price range. This is the best home I have ever had because of the detail & care that went into building it! KPM has been great to work with, and they truly care about the homeowners they build for.� - DR

Currently providing residential construction in Guste Island, Grand Oaks, Bedico Creek, Abita Ridge, Coquille, Brentwood, and Brookestone subdivisions.

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Naturally, the fun doesn’t stop there—not with 1,827 square feet to work with. Boasting three bedrooms and two bathrooms, the home has no shortage of space for Guillot’s delightful take on mid-century design to come out and play, and he does so with the perfect amount of restraint. Adding touches that nod to the iconic period in most rooms rather than overwhelm with it, he has created a haven whose light-filled rooms and bright colors emote happiness.

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Naturally, the master bath is fit for the king of this mid-mod castle, with a single vessel sink whose faucet and X-shaped knobs are the perfect retro touch. Ideal for soaking away the stresses of the day, the free-standing soaking tub is centered under a rainshower head and encircled with a hospital curtain track to create a full 360-degree shower curtain rod mounted to the ten-foot ceilings.

It is details such as these that make the home stand out, its quirkiness the very essence of an owner determined to live out loud. Even in his home gym, his personality is given room to speak—and speak, it does, using a one-off wallpaper imported from Belgium of the first generation Porsche 911, with the car’s specs written “auf Deutsch.”

Just one factor in a room filled with color, it is little wonder that this is one of Guillot’s favorite spaces. Clearly, there is an identity here that loves life—and this is a great place to live it.

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NOVEMBER 2020

65

India, Jordan, and Marc Hilton

Nichole Suhre and Hannah Billiot

Rachel and Josh Sharp and kids

MONSTER MASH Photos by Casey Varnado Penny Hill and Alexis Dill

The show must go on is an understatement as the 32nd annual Monster Mash, hosted by St. Tammany Health System Parenting Center, was one to remember.

The line of vehicles glistened in the sun like waves as the young passengers waited breathlessly for their opportunity to see the sights that awaited them. The cast of characters set up a vehicle trick or treat extravaganza, with witches, superhero’s, and even dinosaurs. Nothing was going to slow down the joy and excitement that Monster Mash brings to the community, and this year was one of the best.

Ashley Eusea and Madison Landrum

Paul Myers, Anna Spring, and Jessica Domiano

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Kimmi Duncan and Jason Houidobre

Kylie Vareles and Amy Cuneo

Terri Johnston, Robert Schoendorf, Carmen Fouquet, and Donna Mayeux

Bonny Barry, Santana-lin Lewis, and Heidi Bowlsbey

MONSTER MASH | BOGUE FALAYA PARK

Laurie Blasini, Rebecca Birkett, and Jonathan Kelchner

Zoey and Zachary Prattini

Megan, Mike, and Rohonda Bierman

Daniel Carter, Stacey Rusich, Jennifer Bergeron, and Teresa Delaneuville

We are so excited to work with VIP SOCIAL MAGAZINES! We love that their issues depict the lives and stories of those who do good in our community, who live colorfully, and who inspire the rest of us.

We look forward to seeing in these pages all the wonderful things our friends and community members are doing to breathe life into our community�

- Ken Friend, Owner - Friend & Co.

NOVEMBER 2020

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Nicole ALLISON

SUPERMOM

T

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

here are a lot of corporations and even small businesses that offer statements of being truly dedicated to the needs of their employees, but as the Health & Wellness Director at Bergeron Automotive, Nicole Allison is making that dedication a reality.

The former Vice President of Operations, Nicole took on a less stressful role at her family’s dealership after the COVID-19 pandemic and she needed to be home for her children. While she could have seen the new position as a step back, she’s used it to better the lives of the staff and has been given more time to be with the people who mean the most

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to her: Josh, her husband of ten years and their three beautiful children, Liberty, William, and Joshua Jr. “Last year, I was running a dealership and juggling so many plates; and then COVID hit,” Nicole says.

“Now, I still work for our company but in a much smaller role. I’m able to do things with my family that I have never been able to before, and I feel truly blessed to do what I do.”

What she does is truly transformative to the employees of Bergeron Automotive, giving them guidelines that have helped them look and feel better and have a greater quality of life—both at work and at home. “I’ve always been passionate about health, and I’m proud of maintaining my own personal health as well as encouraging that in my family. As the Health and Wellness Director at the dealership, I’m incredibly proud of the wellness contributions I’ve been able to make there,” says Nicole, whose grandfather started the company in 1966. “We have had

many employees begin or restart a healthy lifestyle through our corporate wellness program, Be-Well, which I started back in 2015. Some have lost weight to come off of prescription drugs, some to fit into their favorite pair of jeans or just to feel better.”

She practices what she preaches, instilling healthful practices in her children, as well.

“I believe that wellness is a lifestyle and a priceless gift I can give to my kids. I educate them on foods and exercise; and I already see healthy habits forming in them, which makes me so proud,” she explains. “I feel like other than their spiritual health with God, their physical and mental health— which go hand-in-hand—are so important.”

As a working mother, she also knows the importance of balancing the different facets of her life and showing her kids that there really is a way to do it all. “It’s been such a blessing to be able to contribute to my family’s business and have my kids see

Mommy get up, get dressed, and head to work. It’s given me a great sense of fulfillment,” says the 36 year-old, who also supported her husband’s dream of starting his own civil litigation law firm, Joshua D. Allison A Professional Law Corporation.

“Still, there’s the ‘Mom Guilt.’ I feel like all mothers feel it whether they work outside of the home or not. I think it’s a product of our society and all of the social media that portrays ‘perfect moms’ who read to their kids every night and never raise their voices and just seem to have it all together,” she goes on. “Fortunately, I’ve realized that nothing is as it seems and that God placed my children with me for a reason. He will give me the wisdom, temperance, and guidance I need to be a good parent.”

For Nicole, part of being a good parent is instilling values in her children that will stay with them as they become adults. “I’ve tried to teach my kids to be grateful for the things that they have,” she says.

“God has really blessed us and will continue to do so—but there will also be times in life when things seem unfair. There will be times when someone gets something that you might have worked for and thought you deserved, and it’s hard. Heartbreak and disappointment are part of living; but if you work hard and trust God, you will be blessed.”

From waking her three little ones to “Celebration” by Kool and the Gang and changing the lyrics to match the day of the week to the sweet words she whispers to them as she tucks them at night in with a hug and as kiss, Nicole’s heart is always filled with love for her family—and that’s her greatest source of health and wellness.

(985) 900-2410 70515 LA-21 Suite D | Covington, LA NOVEMBER 2020

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Fagot

Inspiration

WILLOW

BY KAYLA BERTUCCI PICTURE THIS: A beautiful home settled on a green pasture filled with cows, chickens, and horses. That’s where 7-year-old Willow Fagot lives in Franklinton, Louisiana. Home is a major comfort to Willow, and that’s exactly what she clung to after being diagnosed with Leukemia in 2019.

“I noticed my daughter was extra tired and her pediatricians kept saying she was catching a lot of viruses,” explains Willow’s mom, Paige Liberto. “I have a medical background, so I knew there had to be something more. That’s when our pediatrician decided to run some blood tests and sent us to Children’s Hospital’s emergency department. Willow was diagnosed with Leukemia shortly after.”

With a mother’s intuition never wrong, Paige says the initial shock of the diagnosis wore off quickly.

The family met their oncologist, Dr. Maria Velez, and was soon put at ease. Paige knew Willow was going to receive the best treatment possible at Children’s Hospital New Orleans. Her instincts were correct once again.

“What’s so great about Children’s Hospital is that it’s a one stop shop,” says Paige. “Willow can see her neurologist, urologist, gastroenterologist, oncologist, and even her pediatrician right here all within one building.”

When the pandemic first hit and Willow was hospitalized with the coronavirus, Paige says

that even a psychologist was on hand to care for her daughter through such an unprecedented time. With Children’s Hospital’s new Behavioral Health Center on campus, there are more and more specialists available for any inpatient needs.

“I must say, another perk of Children’s Hospital are the Child Life specialists who always try to make Willow’s stay as normal as possible,” says Paige. “For example, they learned she loved her farm animals, so they would bring her little gifts like little horses so she could feel at home. She also loves art, so even the Children’s Hospital arts and medicine coordinator would create art with Willow and made sure she always had enough supplies.”

Paige says the memory that stands out the most from her daughter’s fight against Leukemia came on Christmas Day, 2019.

COVID-19 hit back in the spring, the rules changed where only one family member could be in the room. I was so impressed with the structure and restrictions put into place by the hospital to keep everyone safe during this time. I was also impressed that our cancer team kept Sullivan in mind. They would give Willow stickers she could take home to her brother to include him in the process and to make it as special a time as they could even though everything had changed. That’s what sets Children’s Hospital apart from the rest. Everything is such a personal experience,” says Paige.

Now, 7-year-old Willow is going through physical therapy, play therapy, and has 18 more months of chemotherapy treatment. In all, she’s happy her trips from her physical home to this home away from home can still feel comforting, thanks to the experts at Children’s Hospital New Orleans.

“I get a call on Christmas Day and it’s from one of the oncology fellows, Dr. Maria Espanol Mendez, and she tells us that Willow is officially in remission. That personal touch meant everything to me and my family,” Paige shares.

Her son, 3-year-old Sullivan, has also been along for his sister’s fight against cancer.

“Sullivan used to come and be in the room with Willow during her stays on the 4 West Hematology Oncology Unit. Obviously, when NOVEMBER 2020

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Lee

Inspiration

CRUZ

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

B

abies are a blessing, a tiny little reminder of the wonder of life, and the embodiment of love. When Jordan “Cruz” Lee was born on August 3, 2018, his parents felt that love in every inch of him— ten fingers, ten toes, and a beating heart that they soon learned had a murmur. Initially unworried by a condition so common in infants, the gravity of the situation was made clear to them when the little boy was three days old.

“I will never forget the nine people who walked into my hospital room to give us the news that our baby had a heart condition, confirmed from a echocardiogram earlier that day, and that he would need to be airlifted as soon as possible,” recalls Kristina Lee of the day she realized her son’s life was in danger. Diagnosed with Pulmonary Valve Stenosis (PVS), which narrows the pulmonary valve opening and slows blood flow, baby Cruz was quickly airlifted from Our Lady Of the Angels Hospital in Bogalusa to the Oschner Medical Center PICU unit in New Orleans for his emergency procedure, a ballon valvuloplasty to widen a narrowed valve in his heart.

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hospital has been phenomenal, and I could never fully express my gratitude. They have become like family over the past two years.”

Three days later, Cruz was discharged from the hospital and on his way to recovery. Over the past two years, his mother has taken him every six months to at Our Lady Of The Lake in Baton Rouge for check-ups with his pediatric cardiologist, Dr. Hixon.

Each time, he undergoes and EKG and echocardiogram; and each time, he handles it “like a champ.”

Through it all, Cruz’s parents have credited the attending medical personnel for his exceptional care. “Rene Ragus, the CEO of OLOAH, assisted us with getting in touch with Dr. Hixon at OLOH as well as the staff at Oschner,” says Lee. “The staff at each

For now, Cruz continues his regular visits to OLOL, where his condition is closely monitored and has shown great signs of improvement. The situation will be reassessed after his third birthday, when his doctor will be able to determine if further surgery is necessary. Whatever the outcome, there is one thing that will never change: how very much this lively little boy who loves the outdoors inspires his parents. “He is the most lovable, energetic, and happy child anyone could ask for; and we thank God every day for allowing us to be his parents,” says Lee. With dreams of being either a dinosaur or Marshall from Paw Patrol when he grows up, Cruz is clearly a little boy with a big imagination—and a big heart.

COMING

soon!

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW STORY BY KAYLA BERTUCCI

When life hands you lemons, make lemonade and give back to the community.

Sweet, homemade lemonade.

Nothing sounds better to a Louisianian on a hot, muggy day than that tangy, sugary, ice-cold beverage. Now imagine walking up to a lemonade stand and ordering a glass, knowing your money is going to a great cause.

Ten-year-old Sophie Gammon is the mastermind behind turning an after-school hobby into a way of serving the community.

Two years ago, she raised money at her very own lemonade stand and gave the proceeds to the Autism Society of Greater New Orleans. This idea stemmed from her already charitable family, and Sophie says she has a friend with autism who is the happiest person she knows. This special donation went to help provide resources & programs for families affected by autism.

Sophie Gammon

“I love doing this for other people,” young Sophie explains, “because I know not everyone has what I have.”

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PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

SOPHIE HAS RAISED A TOTAL OF $1395.

The generosity doesn’t stop there.

What do we love in Louisiana more than fall football? I’m talking about those good ole boys in black and gold, the New Orleans Saints, and of course, the LSU Tigers. Sophie’s next bright idea was creating a football pool where she raised over $600 for Make a Wish Foundation Texas Gulf Coast & Louisiana and the Northshore Humane Society.

The pandemic seemed to throw a wrench in Sophie’s plans for another lemonade stand this summer, so she decided to raise money in a different way.

Virtually.

In July, she raised $100 by doing a virtual walk in her neighborhood to benefit the

Special Olympics. Because of young Sophie and other supporters of the Special Olympics, over $17,000 was raised for the athletes in the Louisiana chapter.

“I put them in a Ziplock bag with their name on it and a thank you sticker,” Sophie explains, “so they know that I appreciate their business and their donation to these charities.”

To continue the momentum, this young fundraising superstar has started her newest and craftiest endeavor to raise funds. It’s all about the stylish lanyard!

No matter if you’re big or small, old or young, having a servant’s heart and giving back to your community is never too far out of reach. As we approach the holiday season, Sophie encourages everyone to think of others.

Sophie creates this accessory by using special beads and elastic string. Putting her little hands to work, she enjoys crafting each lanyard, designing the unique styles, and raising money with each sale. A portion of her lanyard sells are going to different types charities. One of those charities being the Louisiana Humane Society in hopes of helping misplaced pets in Lake Charles following the devastating hurricane season.

Do you have the time, energy, and resources to help someone out? Put that kind heart into practice and be thankful for what you do have.

BE A SOPHIE. NOVEMBER 2020

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Interventional Radiology Biplane Suite at North Oaks First in Gulf South Purchase Funded in Part

by North Oaks Foundation

Advertorial

[HAMMOND, LA.] — North Oaks Medical Center’s new, highly specialized Interventional Radiology Biplane Suite is the first of its kind in the Gulf South to offer advanced technology to streamline care for stroke, heart, trauma and cancer patients.

Strategically located near the hospital’s Emergency Department, the $2.5 million, 1500-square-foot suite took 10 months to construct and is powered by the Siemens Artis Q biplane unit.

North Oaks Interventional Radiologists Sean Gipson, M.D., Laura Leonards, M.D., and Zachary Liner, M.D., harness the biplane’s imaging capabilities to guide minimally invasive procedures designed to diagnose, treat and cure a variety of conditions.

The Artis Q’s two rotating cameras are positioned on each side of the patient making it possible to capture highly detailed 2D and 3D images of blood vessels, tissue and blood flow in the brain, arteries and spine from multiple angles at once with one single injection of contrast dye.

“These real-time images combine diagnosis and treatment into one procedure with unprecedented precision,” explains Liner. “This saves precious minutes in time-sensitive situations, lessens patient risk, radiation exposure and pain, involves smaller incisions than surgery, reduces the visibility of scarring, and supports quicker recovery.

“Using the unparalleled imaging detail provided by our biplane, we can detect and treat stroke, aneurysms, hardening of the arteries and other vascular and neurological conditions without antiquated, invasive surgical techniques. This technology further enhances the care we already deliver as a Primary Stroke and Level II Trauma Center,” Liner asserts.

SEAN GIPSON, M.D.

LAURA LEONARDS, M.D.

In 2018, North Oaks Medical Center became the only facility on the Northshore performing intracranial mechanical thrombectomy, a procedure to pull blood clots from blocked vessels inside the brain using image-guided catheters and a wire cage device, called a stent retriever. The catheter

Time is brain, which means that the faster we can restore blood flow to the brain, the more likely a person is to regain motor and cognitive functions after a stroke or onset of other neurological situations,” asserts Liner. is threaded through an artery in the groin up to the blockage in the brain. The stent retriever is then deployed through the clot and removed with the captured clot through the catheter that was placed in the artery.

“Time is brain, which means that the faster we can restore blood flow to the brain, the more likely a person is to regain motor and cognitive functions after a stroke or onset of other neurological situations,” asserts Liner. “Before the acquisition of the biplane, we were using a single plane unit. We’ve been able to achieve excellent outcomes with the single plane unit, but having the biplane introduces technology that supports the highest and most efficient level of care. It also enables us to offer even more ways to care for our patients in minimally invasive ways.”

ZACHARY LINER, M.D.

Aneurysm coiling is another neurological procedure that will be enhanced by the comprehensive brain imagery that the biplane provides. Like thrombectomy, a steerable catheter is inserted into the bloodstream from the groin and guided to the brain. Using this technique, tiny coils are deployed to fill the aneurysm and activate clotting to seal it off, prevent rupture and save lives.

“In addition to stroke and neurological treatment, the biplane unit will be utilized for cancer staging and therapies here at North Oaks,” Liner adds.

“Our advanced targeted approach to cancer treatment is unparalleled as seen in our approach to chemotherapy, which is now delivered directly to tumors, as opposed to an oral pill or IV therapies.”

The biplane’s purchase was funded in part by a North Oaks Foundation Giving Campaign launched in September 2018. Nearly $200,000 was raised by the foundation toward the purchase of the $1.8 million biplane.

Major gifts were received from First Guaranty Bank, who committed the first $100,000 to the biplane’s purchase, as well as the Northshore Home Builders Association through its Raising the Roof for Charity Foundation, Alton and Terri Lewis and Bracy’s Nursery, LLC. “We are grateful to the North Oaks Foundation and its board of directors for taking a leadership role in helping to raise the funds necessary to purchase the biplane,” asserts North Oaks Health System President/Chief Executive Officer Michele Sutton, FACHE. “We thank everyone, including our employees and volunteers, who donated and invested in the health of Tangipahoa Parish.

Supporting Local Businesses.

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We all know that supporting local businesses is essential to a thriving community but following the spring’s COVID-19 closures, it’s more important than ever to support the stores, restaurants, services and people that make the Northshore the culturally unique community that it is.

Buy a Gift Card for Yourself

Tip Generously

If you want to support a local business that you can’t visit right away, consider purchasing a gift card. This helps show the small business owners that you’re backing them right now, even if you won’t be stopping in right away.

Dollars spent now will go a long way to replenishing stock and recouping losses.

Restaurant and service workers took a real hit when everyone was self-quarantined. Help them recoup by adding a little lagniappe on the tip line. Plus, you will feel good doing it.

Buy a Gift Card for Someone Else Want to spread the love? Buy a gift card for a friend, colleague or loved one and you very well might make a customer for life. According to the business wire, 90% of consumers who receive a gift card from a business they’ve never visited say they will shop at that business and will return there in the future.

Get Social

Donate Those Cleaning Supplies Went a little overboard buying up Lysol wipes like a doomsday prepper? Donate them to a business or nonprofit that will put them to good use.

Return To Your Faves If you haven’t visited or supported one of your favorite local businesses in a long time, consider this your cue.

They miss you!

Find Some New Faves

Follow your favorite businesses on social media and let them know you are rallying behind them. If they have It’s great to support businesses you already love, but part an email newsletter, sign up. Share posts from local busi- of the fun of living in the Northshore area is getting to nesses that you think your friends will want to see. Post explore hidden treasures. There are some truly wonderful your haul on social media, and tag the business or use the gems out there waiting! To get you started on your jourappropriate hashtag. You could even snap a selfie while ney, take a look at some of the businesses here in this issue. you’re getting your curbside order.

Book That Appointment If you had to cancel an appointment due to coronavirus – reschedule it now! Just knowing that business is coming in is a great gift to any small business owner whose books may feel empty.

Leave Reviews If you’ve never left reviews for businesses that you love, now is the time. Include specific information about what you love about the business and how it’s unique. Positive reviews have a lasting impact on influencing potential customers.

Ask How You Can Help Many business owners, retail workers and service industry professionals are feeling mental and emotional strain, even as things improve. Ask them how you can help.

Everyone needs a little kindness right now, and every kind act makes an enormous impact.

Keep It Going Once everything is back to “business as usual,” the community will feel less urgency to support local stores and services.

It’s important to help keep the momentum rolling!

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NEW & noteworthy

Audubon Aquarium’s Backstage Penguin Pass Returns: Revamped to Meet New Social Distancing Guidelines and Safety Procedures Audubon Aquarium of the Americas’ highly popular Backstage Penguin Pass experience, that offers guests a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for an up-close encounter with an endangered African penguin, has returned. This revamped experience has been adapted to meet social distancing guidelines and procedures.

“We are so excited to safely bring this educational experience back to our visitors,” said Vice President and Managing Director of Audubon Aquarium of the Americas Rich Toth. “Our African penguins at the Aquarium serve as ambassadors, inspiring guests to take action to conserve our oceans.”

As an aspect of COVID-19 procedures, this 45-minute program is formulated for family units and household members. Encounters are limited to six participants, six years of age and older.

All participants will have temperatures checked upon entry and social distancing guidelines will be followed.

Flu Shots Essential to Reducing Impact of Respiratory Illnesses during COVID-19 Pandemic: Vaccine Offered

by North Oaks Protects Against Four Strains Predicted Most Prevalent [HAMMOND, La.] – As influenza season approaches in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the flu vaccine is expected to play an essential role in protecting your health and reducing the impact of respiratory illnesses within the community and strain on the nation’s health care system, according to North Oaks Infectious Disease Physician Stacy Newman, MD. “Southeast Louisiana’s flu season usually peaks between October and March, and getting vaccinated every year remains the single best way to protect against the flu,” Newman explains.

“Due to COVID-19, we are encouraging everyone, six months of age and older, to get vaccinated against the flu. Acquiring either COVID-19 or influenza could negatively impact your overall respiratory health. The combination of both infections in a short timespan would significantly impact your ability to fully recover. Why take the risk?”

No appointments are necessary to receive flu shots at North Oaks Walk-In Clinics in Hammond and Walker and North Oaks Primary Care & After Hours Clinic in Ponchatoula. Flu shots are offered for adults and children, age 6 months and older, including a specific vaccine for those 65 and older. Select North Oaks primary and specialty clinics in Hammond, Livingston and Independence also are providing both types of flu shots. To locate the clinic convenient to you, call North Oaks Physician Group at (985) 230-APPT [2778] or toll-free at (844) APPT-NOW [277-8669]. You also may visit www.northoaks.org/flu.

North Oaks is offering the preservative-free, quadrivalent vaccine. It offers protection against the four strains of the flu virus projected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to be most prevalent for the 2020-2021 season: an influenza A (H1N1) virus, an influenza A (H3N2) virus and two influenza B viruses.

Most health insurance plans are accepted, and many may cover the vaccine as a preventive service at no cost to you and covered family members. To verify acceptance of your plan and preventive service coverage, contact your insurance provider. Self-pay options also are available by request.

All North Oaks facilities are taking extra precautions to keep patients and health care professionals safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. All outpatients and staff are required to wear masks, and temperature checks are done at all entry points. Providers are equipped with all of the necessary personal protective equipment recommended for individual patient care, and physical distancing is observed.

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The Backstage Penguin Pass ticket also includes admission to Audubon Aquarium of the Americas before or after the scheduled Wild Encounter. Currently two times are available to book on Saturdays at 10:30 AM and 2:00 PM. Advance tickets are recommended. For reservations call 1-800-774-7394 at least two weeks prior to visiting the Aquarium.

The Gala —Presented by HUB International

In 2010, HUB International committed to the care of cancer patients in our community as the producing partner and lead sponsor of Benefits of Home. Over the next ten years, this fundraiser grew and evolved into what is now THE Gala, a stunning signature fundraising event raising nearly $200,000 each year to support the patients and families of St. Tammany Cancer Center. Along with HUB, many other incredible businesses and individuals will be celebrating 10 unbelievable years of cancer program philanthropy at THE Gala.

During this challenging time in our community, the patients and families at St. Tammany Cancer Center need our support now more than ever. Many patients are facing barriers to care, including access to adequate nutrition, transportation to and from their treatments, safe activities to maintain a clear mind and limit stress and more.

A special thank you to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana, Humana, Ochsner Health, St. Tammany Health System and United Healthcare who have made their commitment to our cancer center and our community as Featured Sponsors of this year’s 10th anniversary!

This year’s 10th anniversary of supporting world-class cancer care on the Northshore raised more than $155,000 in support of the patients and families who need us in the community.

Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Covington Hosts Successful Free Cancer Screening Event

Rogers Promoted to Facilities Director of Hood Memorial Hospital

(Covington, La.) – More than 130 Northshore residents safely took proactive measures to protect their health by participating in Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center’s third annual Live Well Northshore event at the Covington Trailhead. Funded by the Ben Blanchard Memorial Foundation, Northshore residents received screenings for four different types of cancers at no cost at the Oct. 3 event.

[Amite, La.]—Jake Rogers of Amite has been promoted to Facilities Director of Hood Memorial Hospital.

Live Well cancer screenings included breast, colorectal, prostate and skin. Any participants who received an abnormal finding are being assisted by a patient navigator to ensure necessary follow-up care is promptly accessed.

“Nationally, we are seeing a lack of access to healthcare, especially cancer prevention, education and early detection services in local communities due to time Photo caption: Pictured at the Live Well Northshore constraints or other commitments, and event are front row (l-r): Brittny Costella, Erica Kelt, unfortunately, this can result in cancers Caroline Blanchard and John Alford. Second row going undetected,” said Brittny Costella, (l-r): Johnnay Benjamin, Chris Blanchard, Susan early detection specialist for Mary Bird Blanchard, Danielle Mack and Mark Blanchard.

Perkins Cancer Center in Covington.

“Events like Live Well Northshore provide us the opportunity to offer education and early detection on the weekend for the local community in a safe and accessible environment.”

Due to COVID-19, the Cancer Center took extra steps to ensure the safety of both participants and staff. A number of practices were put in place to ensure the safety of everyone, such as increased frequency of cleaning and disinfecting practices for high-touch areas and appointments for all screenings were required to ensure social distancing. All screening participants and staff were required to wear masks.

The Cancer Center offers screenings throughout the year. For more information, call (985) 276-6810 or visit marybird.org/covington.

“Jake has worked diligently to advance his knowledge of facilities management,” asserts Hood Memorial Hospital’s Chief Executive Officer Mike Whittington.

“His sense of ownership and commitment to the organization make him a natural fit for the job and an integral part of our leadership team.”

Rogers, who has more than five years of experience working in plant operations at Hood, has served as the hospital’s facilities manager since 2019. He is certified as a health care physical environment worker through the American Society for Healthcare Engineering. Rogers also has completed professional trainings in the areas of leadership, water treatment, hazardous materials and disaster preparedness, life safety and environment of care standards of The Joint Commission, and health care facilities code training through the National Fire Protection Agency.

As Hood’s facilities director, Rogers will lead the activities of plant operations personnel, as well as the maintenance and upkeep of equipment and facilities to include the hospital and its full-service health care practice, Amite Rural Health Clinic. He also will serve as chairman of the Safety/Environment of Care Committee and oversee all emergency preparedness efforts.

Visit www.hoodmemorial.com/careers to learn more about and apply for employment opportunities with Hood Memorial Hospital and Amite Rural Health Clinic. You also may call (985) 748-9485.

Rouses Markets Partners with Audubon Nature Institute to Feed the Animals Rouses Markets has partnered with Audubon Nature Institute to provide nutritious meals for the animals of Audubon Zoo and Audubon Aquarium of the Americas for a month and is inviting the community to also help feed their favorite animals.

Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center to Provide Free Breast and Audubon Nature Institute is facing a financial crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic and needs assistance from the community to help care for more than 15,000 animals and aquatic species.

Colorectal Cancer Screenings to Northshore Community During November “We provide some of the highest quality, nutritious diets for the animals in our care including a

wide variety of fresh produce, quality meats, and sustainably harvested seafood,” said Audubon Nature Institute President and CEO Ron Forman. “Feeding animals such giraffe, sea otters, lions, and gorillas is a significant cost-nearly $70,000 a month.”

Rouses Market understands the importance of healthy eating and is not only committed to feeding the people of the community, but also animals in need.

(Covington, La.) – Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Covington is committed to providing free, convenient access to a host of cancer screenings through its Prevention on the Go program.

Discovering cancers in their earliest stage through screenings can help lead to better outcomes, making it extremely important for the community to get screened for appropriate cancers.

The Cancer Center is providing free breast and colorectal cancer screenings on Wednesday, November 4 from 9-11 a.m. and 12-2 p.m. at the Walgreens located at 71041 Highway 21, Covington, LA 70433.

Families can help feed the animals by visiting their neighborhood Rouses Market and purchasing a $1, $5, or $10 or can support feeding the animals by visiting www.youranimalsneedyou.org to make an online contribution.

Audubon is one of a handful of the nation’s top nonprofit zoos and aquariums that are ineligible to benefit from any of the forgivable COVID-19 relief packages because of its pre-COVID number of employees and annual revenue.

All screenings are available to those who have not been screened for cancer in the past 12 months.

Appointments are required for all screenings. To make an appointment, please call (985) 276-6810.

During COVID-19, the Cancer Center has taken steps to ensure the safety of both screening participants and staff. A number of practices are in place to ensure the safety of everyone, such as increased frequency of our cleaning and disinfecting practices for high-touch areas and appointments for all screenings to ensure social distancing. To learn more about the precautions the Cancer Center is taking or to learn more about our community screening program, please visit marybird.org/services/get-screened.

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“Art is Life”

Art, Pottery & Framing

829 ASbury Dr. Mandeville

985-626-0028

pineapplegallery.com