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CO
MP
LIM
EN
TA
RY
$575,000
$154,900
Sale
Pend
ing
426 SE FLORIDA BLVD
DENHAM SPRINGS
35090 MADISONVILLE DR
DENHAM SPRINGS
3 BA • 12,058 Total Sq. Ft.
3 BR / 2 BA • 1,565 Living Area
Contact Aaron Goolsby
[email protected]
[email protected]
225-571-4149
$199,900
28405 GRAND TURK DR
DENHAM SPRINGS
$175,000
33805 NATURE’S WAY
WALKER
[email protected]
[email protected]
$360,000
$260,000
PEN
DIN
A MO G - AFT
ER
NTH
ON T LESS T
HE M
H
ARK AN
ET
9532 FLORIDA BLVD
4.15 ACRES - Property has
great commercial potential in
fast growing area. City water
and gas available. Two homes
on property at no value.
Contact Robert Perry
[email protected]
27736 LA 16 HIGHWAY
11441 JUBAN PARC AVE
Nice 4 BR/3BA home in Juban Parc featuring
wood floors in family room, master bedrooms,
foyer & hallway with gas fireplace in family room,
slab granite counter tops in kitchen and bathrooms with carpet in upstairs bedrooms. House
has landscaped front yard and fenced backyard.
[email protected]
$300,000
26023 BIG BEN DRIVE
$225,000
Location Paradise! Located just off of
Juban Rd. near major shopping retail
stores, movie theatre, and great restaurants. This cozy two story home features
4 bed/2.5 bath in a great neighborhood.
Laminate wood flooring in Living Room
and Formal Dining Room. Ceramic Tile in
Foyer and Kitchen/breakfast area. Lovely
entertainment area just upstairs with
plenty of room. Rear patio is covered. Fully wood fenced in backyard with 2 storage
sheds. Garage with space for 2.
Do not miss a great opportunity
because this home will not last long.
Contact Chad Dupuy
[email protected]
TBD PLANK RD
High traffic location; corner
lot ideal for convenience store,
fast food, gas station or office
building. In the city of Baker.
[email protected]
ROBERT PERRY
225-803-2855
page 2 • JUNE/JULY 2016 • Livingston Business Journal • livingstonbusiness.com
$1,000,000
Nice tract of land just shy of 15 acres in
great location on Pete’s Hwy near the
city limits of Denham Springs. This tract
offers endless opportunities! Schedule
your viewing appointment today!
Contact Chad Dupuy
[email protected]
13464 MEADOWS CROSSING
YOUR REALTOR
YOUR PROPERTY
MANAGER
(225) 667-3711
1110 S. Range Ave., Denham Springs, LA
LAWSON COVINGTON
Search for your home at
www.covingtonrealestate.net
LIVINGSTON
14216 FLORIDA BLVD
Broker/Owner
(225) 939-4785
DENHAM SPRINGS
7020 GARRISON LN
DENHAM SPRINGS
35274 CANE MARKET
DENHAM SPRINGS
11441 JUBAN PARC AVE
Excellent location, income producing rental property with
approx. 3379 total sq. ft. 876 sq. ft. 2BR apartment with
one year lease at $650 per month and detached 2BR 884
sq ft home with one year lease at $700 per month. Lots
of potential for business opportunities situated on 190/
Florida Blvd. Inventory and Sea Can storage unit do not stay.
This tranquil home is situated on a very quite and private corner lot on 3.4 acres in Denham Springs and just
minutes from Bass Pro. This home was custom built 13 years ago by Alden Holloway it is perfect for those who like
to be a part of everything that in-town living has to offer but still like to have those moments of quiet retreat. The
home features 3 spacious bedrooms and 3 full size bathrooms and a half bath. The home has stunning commercial
grade pecan engineered hardwood floors and porcelain tile throughout, this easy to clean flooring will ensure they
always sparkle. The spectacular kitchen is the perfect area to entertain family and friends as you prepare meals
with beautiful counters, tons of counter/cabinet space, gas cook top, electric oven and a built in refrigerator/
freezer. The master bath features a walk-in shower and separate Jacuzzi tub to unwind in after a long day.
Live Oak Schools Flood Zone X, no
flood insurance required 3BR 2BA
open floor plan on large fenced
yard with covered patio and pool to
enjoy the hot summer days. Hurry
for your showing; it won’t last long!
Nice 4 BR/3BA home in Juban Parc featuring wood floors
in family room, master bedrooms, foyer & hallway with
gas fireplace in family room, slab granite counter tops in
kitchen and bathrooms with carpet in upstairs bedrooms.
House has landscaped front yard and fenced backyard.
SPRINGFIELD
DENHAM SPRINGS
DENHAM SPRINGS
DENHAM SPRINGS
$299,500
Call (225) 667-3711
Lot 26 CARTER TRACE
New construction 3BR/2BA home located in Springfield in Carter Plantation
Golf Community. This home will feature a large open living room with gleaming
hard wood floors. The spacious kitchen will be perfect for hosting holiday events
with a large pantry, stunning granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a
cozy breakfast area and a gas cook top. The master suite will have everything you
could hope for, the master bath will offer a separate shower, whirlpool tub for
sore muscles, dual sinks/vanities, granite countertops and a large walk-in closet.
$274,900
Call (225) 667-3711
WALKER
30409 LAFLEUR RUE
Madison Oaks Subdivision located in Walker just off Corbin Ave and across from the
park which offers walking trails. This home has been updated with new appliances, fresh
paint, and new flooring. The split floor plan allows privacy for all. The master suite offers
a private bath with double sinks, jetted corner tub and a separate shower. The kitchen
area is open to the dining area and the den. The additional bedrooms are spacious. As per
the LSU AgCenter flood maps the property is located in flood zone X and does not require
flood insurance. The large backyard is great for entertaining family or friends. The large
deck and private fence yard are just two of the extras this home offers.
$169,900
Call (225) 667-3711
$575,000
Call (225) 667-3711
1603 WEEPING WILLOW DR
Beautiful 3BR/2BA home located in the heart of Denham Springs. This home features a split
floor plan with a large living room area with a stunning fireplace, gleaming wood floors and
built-ins. The open kitchen will be perfect for entertaining with a beautiful island and an
ample amount of counter and cabinet space. The master bedroom has stunning trey ceilings,
the master bath features dual vanities, separate shower and garden tub. The two additional
bedroom are both large with an ample amount of closet space. The outside of the home has
great curb appeal with low maintenance landscaping. The stunning back yard will be perfect
to host cookouts! Call today for your private tour! No flood insurance required.
$224,900
Call (225) 667-3711
WALKER
13625 HOPEHAVEN
You don’t want to miss out on seeing this 3 bed/2 bath home with beautiful landscaping
and great outdoor space! This home is tucked away in quaint Brightwood Subdivision off
of Walker North. Inside it offers stained cabinets that include built-ins in the living room
that surround the wood burning fireplace. The master bath offers a garden tub, separate
shower, linen closet, and his/her walk-in closets. Lots of closet space throughout the
home. Outside you can relax or entertain under the additional covered patio area. Included is a great workshop for additional storage that is air conditioned and insulated.
$165,365
Call (225) 667-3711
$169,900
Call (225) 667-3711
7076 HUNTERS WAY
Gorgeous New Orleans style 3BR/2BA with office and WORK SHOP near I-12. Wood, ceramic and carpet floors.
Front courtyard with waterfall, high ceilings, spilt floor plan. Huge family room with fireplace and built-in
entertainment center. Kitchen with custom cabinets, jenn air cooktop with grill, granite, built-in desk area
with custom cabinets and drawers, huge pantry. Large dining room, large laundry/craft room with built-in
bins. Large MBR with French doors to courtyard. Master bath, walk-in closets, jet tub and oversized shower.
All bedrooms with walk-in closets. Home office. Home has boat port, shop, sprinkler system, RV Hookups with
electricity, water and sewer. 4 gas Bevolo lanterns. Courtyard with slate flooring. 2 A/C units and 2 hot water
heaters. Surround sound. Close to all shopping. 2 miles from Interstate I-12 in Pirie Landing Subdivision.
$299,900
Call (225) 667-3711
$260,000
Call (225) 667-3711
9567 PRAIRIE DUNES CT
Come and view this gorgeous 4 bedroom, 3 bath brand new construction custom home in prominent Greystone
Country Club! This beauty has it all! With custom features such as high recessed beadboard ceilings, interior
custom brick wall, built-ins, custom cabinetry, beautiful granite counter tops and island, wood flooring, extra
large walk in closet with built-ins, custom shower in master bath, and multi functional split floor plan, you are
sure to impress when entertaining friends family. Greystone Country Club offers many amenities, some of the
following include; swimming pool, tennis courts, playground, golf course, health club, and a fantastic club house.
Call to make your private viewing appointment today! Measurements are not warranted/guaranteed by Seller,
Realtors, nor Brokerage; Buyer to verify true measurements during their due diligence period.
$435,000
Call (225) 667-3711
DENHAM SPRINGS
MAUREPAS
7243 BESSIE DR
21098
DIVERSION CANAL RD
PEACEFUL RETREAT ON THE DIVERSION CANAL! THIS 2 BEDROOM, 2 BATH COTTAGE COMES FULLY
Discover the beautiful craftsmanship P&H Builders
put into their homes once you step foot into this home.
This home has lots of amenities throughout, stainless
appliances and slab granite are just the beginning. Step
out back and enjoy family time on your patio.
$299,900
Call (225) 667-3711
FURNISHED. COMPLETE WITH BULKHEAD AND BOAT SLIP. EASY TO GET TO LAKE MAUREPAS. ADDITIONAL LOFT AREA TO PROVIDE A PLAY AREA FOR THE KIDS OR OVER NIGHT GUEST. FRENCH DOORS
OPEN UP TO A 24.3 x 8 SCREENED PORCH, ALLOWING YOU TO RELAX BUG FREE! IF IT’S SUNSHINE
YOU’RE LOOKING FOR, RELAX ON YOUR 24.3 x 13.5 DECK . . GREAT SPACE FOR BBQ’S! TAKE A DIP IN THE
COMMUNITY SWIMMING POOL & PICNIC AT THE GAZEBO. THIS COTTAGE TRULY HAS IT ALL!! MAKE AN
APPOINTMENT TODAY TO PREVIEW YOUR WEEKEND GETAWAY COTTAGE OR YOUR NEW HOME!
$156,900
Call (225) 667-3711
JUNE/JULY 2016 • Livingston Business Journal • livingstonbusiness.com • page 3
REFLECTIONS from
the publisher
The two major parties
officially have their candidates
now … such as they are
E
ach of the two major political parties now has a candidate who has
enough votes to win their respective party’s nomination for the
presidency this fall.
On the one hand, we have a candidate who is perceived as being dishonest and untrustworthy, is a member of the rich elitist class, is not disclosing all of their records, has little in
common with working people, and has flip flopped on major issues over the last decade. On the other hand
we have a candidate from another party who . . . well, can be described exactly the same way. What a disappointment, and what a sad state of affairs when your vote for president may go to the least objectionable
candidate.
All of my adult life I have hoped I would live long enough to see a woman president but I never meant
ANY woman president; I wanted her to be an exemplary candidate, someone I could support enthusiastically
and vote for proudly. I cannot say that Hillary Clinton fits that description. Among her negatives are the handling of the Benghazi crisis, and she appears to have violated federal laws and endangered national security
by using a personal server for her email while secretary of state, leaving top level emails open to hackers.
I also would be happy to have a candidate who speaks up for the “silent majority” middle class and talk
plainly about what needs to be said without regard for political correctness – which has swung so far left
that it lacks common sense and fairness and is often ridiculous. But I don’t like Donald Trump’s version of
plain speaking which includes insulting prisoners of war, women, Hispanics, the media and anyone else who
dares to question him. That somehow worked for him during the primaries, but to win the general election,
he needs to receive at least a portion of the votes of women, Hispanics, blacks, moderates and Independents
– and he has insulted them all. He didn’t achieve the business success he has by being stupid, so, surely, I
thought, he will see that he needs to think before he speaks, and offer ideas instead of insults. He has shown
some movement towards being more reasonable but is it too little too late? Some people who want to vote for
a Republican are being driven away by his behavior; can he win them over?
Both candidates are disliked by more people that those who like and trust them. Both also have legal
woes hanging over their heads. Trump is having to defend the actions of his Trump University in a civil
suit, and Clinton may very likely be indicted for the numerous laws broken when she used those unsecure
servers. Worse case for Trump, he may lose his civil case and be fined. Worse care for Clinton is a criminal
conviction with jail time.
What I’m wondering about is, what happens to the political process if Clinton is indicted before the election and the Democrats want to substitute another candidate, or someone decides to run as an Independent?
The Democratic and Republican parties make their own rules for nominating a candidate, and if Clinton
should be indicted before their convention which opens July 25, they could easily chose someone else – or
could they? Would Clinton first have to withdraw and release her committed delegates? What if she refuses?
And what if she is indicted after the convention, after she has been named the Democratic candidate? Would
it then be too late to change candidates and get a new candidate on ballots?
Some Republicans are still hinting they may challenge Trump at their July 18 convention, and Ted Cruz’s
name comes up both as a possible convention challenger and an Independent. Just a couple weeks ago he
stated that while he had pledged to support the party’s nominee, Trump is not the nominee until named so
at their convention. I don’t know what, if anything Cruz was hinting at or what he thinks he can do since
Trump has the required delegates; perhaps he thinks Trump may yet do something so egregious that delegates will revolt , and they will have a contested convention. Trump? Do something egregious? Well . . . ?
Now, as far as Cruz running as an Independent, there is a big stumbling block. Texas, a large and important state and Cruz’s home state which he would need to win, is one of only two states which bars a “sore
loser” from running as an Independent after having sought and failed to secure the presidential nomination
of a political party.
As far as any Independent making a third party run, that ship has sailed. The filing deadline for Independents to get on state ballots is as late as Sept. 9 in Rhode Island, Arizona and Mississippi, but has already
passed in Texas, North Carolina, Illinois, Indiana and New Mexico. But the bigger problem is that Independents first have to collect a specified number of signatures, ranging from a mere 800 in New Jersey to
178,039 in California.
So what about Bernie Sanders? His best remaining hope is to have a prominent role at the convention and
influence their party agenda - or maybe slip in as the party candidate if Clinton is indicted. Some mention
him as a possible vice president running mate, but that chance is slim to none; he has been too big a thorn in
Clinton’s side, upstaging her on too many occasions for her to choose him.
So while the main party candidates have seemingly been chosen, this has been such a wild political season that I would not be shocked if one or two more surprises are still around the corner at those conventions
later in this month.
Email your questions, comments, suggestions for stories, constructive criticism, etc. to me,
[email protected]. I’d love to hear from you.
JUNE/JULY 2016
Volume 9 Number 12
Margot T. May
Publisher/Creative Director
Helen Wale Turner
Publisher/Managing Editor
Christine Arceneaux
Casey Belgard
Kellee Hennessy Dickerson
Contributing Writers
Bryan May
Sales/Distribution Manager
Teresa Steele
Business Manager
Judy Foreman
Cheryl Jeane
Scott Landry
Theresa Mullins Lowe
Kathy Pickerell
Stuart Salassi
Kenny Sharpe
Columnists
Cynthia Scott
Graphic Designer
Pierce Creative Marketing Services
Web Master
Linda May
Ed May
Distribution
Livingston Business Journal is a monthly publication
published by Inspired Media, LLC. Reproduction of
any content is prohibited without written permission
of the associate publishers. The publishers of Livingston Business Journal reserves the right to refuse
any advertising which is deemed unsuitable for the
publication.
Livingston Business Journal
1810 South Range Ave., Suite 4
Denham Springs, LA
(225) 773-6600
[email protected]
www.LivingstonBusiness.com
ON THE COVER
Integrity Insurance provides clients with
information, options and tips on how
to “weather the storm,” whether the
“storm” is a hurricane, an accident or
other bump in the road of life. Consult
one of their insurance professionals at
their Livingston or Albany office.
INSIDE this
Publisher’s Note
4
Chamber Dateline
6
Looking Forward
8
Library Happenings
9
Around Town
12
Newsmakers
14
Have You Heard
15
Community
16
Community
17
Business Update
18
Business Update
19
New Business News
20
Two major candidates…now what
Livingston Parish Chamber news and events
Issue
16
Transgender bathrooms at schools is going too far
Events at the parish libraries
Upcoming community events
Noteworthy Achievements
17
20
Noteworthy business & community news
Splash, Roll & Run with PARDS
Visit Jerusalem Marketplace at New Covenant
Dr. Bobby Leach passes his practice to son
Gainey’s Concrete Products wins national award
Tea Time combines clothes, toys, party venue and fun
Hurricane Special Disaster
Preparation Feature 2016
Are you ready?
Hurricane categories
Naming hurricanes
Hurricane tracking chart
Disaster preparation checklist
Keeping your business
in business
After the storm
Letter to the Editor
28
28
29
COVER STORY
30
Business Profile
34
Business Spotlight
36
Websites of the Month
38
All That Glitters
40
Spiritual Outlook
Crossing the barrier to blessings
Money Matters
41
Unearth your root
43
Picture Perfect
44
Get It Growing
45
Travel Time
46
Personal Wellness
47
Business Skills
48
Computer Savvy
When it’s time to call the IT guy
Financial Goals
49
Graves says FEMA model is broken
24
24
24
26
27
28
Integrity Insurance helps you weather the storms
30
Fashion from head to toe at Glam Boutique
Southern Pipe & Supply thriving at new location
Resources to help prepare for and respond to disasters
Design your own jewelry … with help from Salassi
You can achieve financial independence
Clerk of Court shares genealogy tool
42
34
Capturing animals at the zoo takes attention
Grow blueberries for your health
These tips can make your trip go smoothly
Referrals no longer needed to see physical therapist
Tough times requires a tough leader
36
50
You can make building a house easier with knowledge
CHAMBER Dateline
LEADERSHIP LIVINGSTON
Class of 2016 graduates, new class signs up
The 4th successful year of the Leadership program concluded with the
Graduation & Project Presentation June 21 at Ferrara Fire Apparatus in Holden. This year’s graduating class of 23 tackled four community projects.
Teams and Project Presentations Included: Killian Helipad & Shoes for
Students by Team Heart & Sole, Denham Springs Antique District Lights by
Team Lighting the Night, and J&N Albany Community Park by Team Vision.
Lori Steele of the Sheriff’s Office was named Outstanding Graduate.
Overall, the total impact was cash and in-kind contributions totaling
$120,652, and at least 1600 volunteer hours which impacted thousands of
residents.
The application deadline for the 2016/2017 Leadership Livingston program is July 22. Lifelong residents and newcomers alike praise Leadership
Livingston. Be a part of the program that is changing the way you see your
community.
Caruso named to Chamber Board
The Livingston Parish Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors welcomes Todd Caruso, Attorney
at Law, as the newest Board Member. Todd will be
filling an unexpired term.
“Todd brings an expertise in labor law, employment, and business law, and insight that is valuable
to the Chamber Membership,” explained Chairman
Brian Abels.
“I am honored to be selected for the Livingston Parish Chamber Board of
Directors,” Caruso says. “As a Livingston Parish business owner and lifelong
resident, I look forward to being a part of the work of the Chamber and its
positive promotion of both the business community and parish as a whole.”
Appointed as the Magistrate Judge for the city of Walker in 2014, Caruso
also has a general civil law practice and is a frequent author and lecturer on
issues involving employment law, the Fair Labor Standards Act and Louisiana’s wage-related laws.
Google Street View coming back to town
The Google Street View Team will return to the area July 13 to bring the
Street View imaging technology inside more of our member business establishments. The cost is $199 to get Street View inside your business.
Fill out and submit the online form on the Chamber’s web page. Members may also sign up for the additional benefit, the Virtual Business & Area
Guide to Livingston Parish. All member businesses that have had the Google
Street View photographer come inside their establishment are showcased on
this new mobile, multi-platform-designed guide.
Find your fit as a Chamber committee member
Chamber Committees are open to participation by Chamber
Members and their authorized representatives. The actions of the Chamber
are carried out at the committee level, making chamber committees a vital
resource to the Chamber’s work of strengthening the business community.
Each committee allows for different levels of participation.
FIND YOUR FIT:
Education Committee - Carry out education programs and initiatives of
the Chamber organization in line with overall goals through meaningful
programs. (Meets 2nd Friday of the Month)
Small Business Council - Communicate with Chamber leadership and
other businesses to express experiences. Also tasked with keeping Livingston Parish businesses informed and aware.
Events Committees - Provide members with professional
and well managed events offering opportunities for sponsorships, showcasing their businesses, connecting with other
businesses all while enjoying fun and fellowship. Assure the
success of the following Chamber events. Golf is our next big
event! Other events are the Gala and Expo.
Livingston Young Professionals - Create opportunities for
young professionals (21-40) to build relationships, expand
skills, advance careers and promote economic development in
the parish. Get in on the ground floor for tremendous opportunities.
See the Chamber website for more information
on committees.
Save the Date
July 7- Addiction Boutique ribbon
cutting
July 13 – Young Professionals gen
eral meeting
July 13 – Google Street View
July 19 – Leadership alumni annual
meeting
July 20 – Third Cast Realty Group
ribbon cutting
July 22 – Deadline for applications
for 2016-17 Leadership Liv
ingston
Livingston Parish Chamber of Commerce
248 Veterans Blvd.• Denham Springs
225-665-8155 • Fax: 225-665-2411
[email protected]
www.livingstonparishchamber.org
CHAMBER Dateline
Join Livingston Young Professionals (LYP)
over lunch at Walk-On’s
The Young Professionals will have their first ever General Meeting July 13. This
session will feature networking time and guest speakers focusing on leadership/entrepreneurship and community service projects.
The speaker will be Jack Fridge, President of Livingston Waste, Livingston Parish
Current Entrepreneur of the Year.
Pay Your Own Way over lunch, but an RSVP is required by July 11.
Best Western hotel has ribbon cutting in Walker
The Livingston Parish Chamber of Commerce alongside City of Walker cut the ribbon
at the new Best Western Plus Regency Park on Friday, June 17 with Walker Mayor Rick
Ramsey; Anand Patel, Best Western Plus Regency Park General Manager; Neil Patel,
owner; Walker Councilwoman Scarlett Major. The hotel is located at 13600 Hartman
Lane in Walker.
Welcome New
Mem
The Church in Liv
ing
bers
ston
Movie Tavern
Berkshire Hathaway
Home
Services/Bobby Tallo
Realty
Olinde’s Mattress
Superstore
Thompson Booth
LOOKING FORWARD
with President Ricks
Transgender bathrooms in schools
violates children’s right to privacy
I
am writing this column both as
Livingston Parish President and
as a citizen concerned about the
law pertaining to transgender bathroom
privileges in schools. I believe our president has once again crossed all moral
and Christian boundaries by passing
legislation dictating transgender bathroom crossover into our children and grandchildren’s lives.
I’m furious and appalled by this and yet, at the same time,
amazed that it has come to this. I cannot imagine how this can be
accepted, let alone tolerated. This violates all Christian values in
so many ways.
I’m not judging transgenders but, regardless of race, gender
or political affiliation, there is no way on God’s green earth this
is okay. I am, however, judging the actions of President Barack
Obama and the ridiculous position of his attorney general for discounting the rights of our children and grandchildren to be able
to use school restrooms in comfort and with the confidence that
their privacy as male or female will not be compromised. He has
seemingly lost all respect for what our military men and women
fought for in World Wars and what we, as a nation, stand for in
our moral and religious beliefs.
We are on a path of internal destruction if we allow this president to act in such a way as to destroy our core values and beliefs.
I just do not understand how the rights of one or two percent
outweigh the rights of ninety-eight to ninety-nine percent. We
are still living in a democratic nation are we not? Certainly,
trans-genders have rights, but not at the expense of the rights
of others. This decision by President Obama further divides the
country. I’m convinced that is his plan.
I do not like to talk negatively about anyone, including our
president, but we cannot continue to let all decency and moral
rights be flushed down the toilet (no pun intended). We have to be
responsible citizens as well as loving and caring Christians for all
people, but we do not have to accept wrongdoing by anyone when
it jeopardizes the well being of all others. This decision to force
this upon our schools or face losing federal funding just polarizes and divides us. It does not make us accept transgenderism.
I do not believe the president has the legal right to dictate or
supersede state law and school policy. We all need to pray about
this issue and seek ways to help Louisiana’s attorney general and
other leaders oppose this violation of all decency. According to
the Bible (Genesis), all persons are created in God’s image and
made to glorify Him, and by His design He created man and
then woman. He ordained both male and female with distinct
differences biologically and physically. In my opinion, transgenderism is a psychological issue, and I’m sure very real to those
who are transgenders. I do not pretend to understand the depth of
this nor do I judge them.
As a Christian, I know we are to love and pray for all people.
I do not, however, believe that we have to embrace and accept
this into our lives by imposing this on our schools. I oppose any
and all efforts by President Obama to force us to validate this as
morally praiseworthy.
I believe people have the right to choose who and what they
believe and who they want to be, but they do not have the right to
force it on me or my children and grandchildren.
Think of all the important issues this president has to face
in our country. Yet his biggest concern seems to be bathroom
privileges for transgenders. That is just appalling to me. The
president, in my opinion, is leading this country to hell in a hand
basket as the saying goes.
May God be with us and watch over us as we enter into one of
the most important elections in the history of our country. Do we
want to continue down this path of moral decay? Or do we want
to change the direction of our Nation and regain our moral and
Christian way of life? You decide.
God bless you and may God bless America.
This column by Parish President Layton Ricks is a regular feature in the Journal. Contact the president’s office at 225-686-4400.
or email comments or questions to him at info@livingstonparishla.
gov. See the official parish government website www.livingstonparishla.gov for information on all parish offices and departments.
AT the
Library Happenings
For more information or to register when required, call the appropriate
branch or go to www.mylpl.info and click on the online calendar.
Library branches: Main (Livingston) 225.686.2436; Albany-Springfield
225.567.1441; Denham Springs-Walker 225.665.8118; South 225698.3015; Watson 225.664.3963.
All library activities are free.
HARRY AND THE STRUMMERS - Ages 12-18 beginners learn to play the ukulele. Ukuleles provided. July 6, 13, & 20 - Main 3:30pm. RSVP required.
LPL IMPROV GROUP - Ages 12+ learn and develop improvisational/sketch skills. July
28 - Main 6pm. RSVP required.
WINGS OF HOPE - Ages 3+ are introduced to birds from Louisiana’s native wildlife.
July 5 - Alb/Sp 10am, South 2pm, & Main 6pm. July 6 - DS/Wlk & Watson 6pm.
RSVP required.
LP Library Events
F E A T U R E D
library
SMALL BUSINESS CONSULTING - Ages 18+ receive private, one-hour
consulting sessions in areas including business plans, advertising plans,
inventory control, financial projections, and more. July 13 – Main branch
9am. RSVP required. To register: 225.664.6638.
AUTHOR JULIE CANTRELL (AGES 10-18) Visits The Young Writers Club
Julie Cantrell New York Times-bestselling author of this year’s Livingston
Parish Reads Together title, The Feathered Bone will speak to young writers.
This event is open to all young writers, whether or not you are a member of
the club. DS-Wlkr branch July 7, 5 pm.
TRI PARISH BALLET - All ages. The dance troupe brings stories to life. July
19 - Main 10am & Alb/Sp 2pm. July 20 - DS/Wlkr branch 10am & Watson
2pm. July 21 - South 10am.
MUSIC CLUB (AGES 18 AND UP) - Bring your own instruments or use our guitars,
bass, ukulele, accordion, or drum set and learn one song a month. Main, July 7, 6 pm.
COMPUTER CODING FOR BEGINNERS (AGES 18 AND UP) - Get started coding with
help from Code.org. and make a Star Wars game. July 7, Alb/Spfki , 6 pm.
ANGRY BIRDS XXL (AGES 6-11) - Play the EXTRA EXTRA LARGE edition of this
popular game. Test your skill at launching a catault and knocking things over. July 7,
Watson, 5:30 p.m.
OCEAN GAMES & PUPPET SHOW - Ages 0-8 dig for treasures in the sand, feed the
hungry shark, and find out what happens when a seahorse challenges a shark to
race. July 19 - South 2pm. RSVP required.
MURDER MYSTERY ACTING CLASS - Ages 18+ create and perform in a Murder
Mystery show. July 6, 13 & 20 - Main 1pm. RSVP required.
OWL PELLET WORKSHOP - Ages 7-11 work with a partner to dissect an owl pellet,
identify the bones & try to determine what the owl ate for dinner. July 5 - Alb/Spf
11:30am. July 6 - Watson 4pm.RSVP required.
DIY PARTY - 18+ learn simple crafts of mirror art, tin can soy candles, bleach stenciled
t-shirts, & hand-stamped linen. Bring a clean tin can with labels removed & a dark-colored t-shirt. All other materials provided. July 5 - DS/Wlk 6pm. RSVP required.
PRINTMAKING FOR KIDS - Ages 5-11 create art pieces using printmaking techniques.
RSVP required. July 6 - Alb/Sp 2pm. July 11 - Main 2pm. RSVP required.
GIANT GAMEs - Ages 3-11 enjoy favorite games but GIANT! July 7 - DS/W 10am.
July 12 - Wat 2pm. July 21 - Alb/Sp 2pm. RSVP required. Then, ages 12-18 enjoy their
favorite super-sized games, July 7 - DS/Wlk 2pm. July 12 - Watson 5:30pm. July 21 Alb/Sp 3:30pm. RSVP required.
YOGA AND MEDITATION - Ages 18+ relax mind & body for free. Bring a yoga mat
or towel and wear comfortable clothes. July 9 - Main 11am. July 17 - DS/Wlk 3pm.
RSVP required.
STIKBOT ANIMATION STUDIO - Ages 12-18 create & share stop-motion animation
videos. July 9 - DS/Wlk 2:30pm. RSVP required.
CREATE A SELF-WATERING TERRARIUM - Ages 18+ make a self-contained terrarium
in a mason jar. Terrarium materials & moss provided. Bring your own plants to fit in a
16 oz jar & any small figurines you want. July 11 - Watson 6pm. RSVP required.
so
HARVEY RABBIT AND FRIENDS - All ages watch a variety show with songs, magic,
games, & more. July 12 - Main 10am & Alb/Sp 2pm. July 13 - DS/Wlk 10am & Watson, 2pm. July 14 - South 10am.
FAMILY FEUD - Ages 8-11 are contestants in the library version of the popular TV game
show. July 13 - Alb/Sp 2pm. July 16 - Main 10am. July 21 - DS/Wlk 6:30pm. July 28 Main 2pm. RSVP required.
AT THE Library
GAMING POP ART! (AGES 8-11) - Follow-the-instructor to create a Mario-inspired
canvas painting. July 14, Alb/Spf, 2pm. RSVP required.
SILK SCREENING - 18+ create a custom screen & practice the printing process on
paper. The process also works on fabric and other materials. July 14 – DS/Wlk 10am.
RSVP required.
MURDER MYSTERY CAFE’ - Ages 18+ enjoy performance by Livingston Parish Library
Mystery Players & figure out “whodunit.” July 21 - South 5:30pm & July 25 - Watson
6pm. July 28 - Alb/Sp 6pm. RSVP required.
DEWEY DECIBELS DANCE PARTY! - All Ages get down & be silly at this end of summer
reading dance party. July 26 - Main 10am, Alb/Sp 2pm, South 5:30pm. July 27 Watson 2pm. July 28 - DS/W 6pm.
END OF SUMMER TEEN PARTY - Ages 12 - 18 celebrate end of the summer at the
library. July 26 - Watson 5:30pm & Main 6pm. July 28 - Alb/Sp 2pm. RSVP required.
INTRO TO 3D - Ages 18+ learn the basics of 3D design with simple, free online software. This class is for adults with basic technology skills. July 27 - DS/Wlk 6:30pm.
PERCY JACKSON: CAPTURE THE FLAG
Welcome to Camp Half Blood! Ages 12-18 armor up and engage in training exercises before you test your skills playing Capture the Flag, July 22, 6 pm at the Denham
Springs-Walker Branch, Registration required; opens two weeks before the event.
COLORING AND COFFEE - Ages 18+ to color, listen to music, & socialize. Materials
supplied. July 7 - Main 10am. RSVP required. Circle Doodle Art
Art Galleries
Each month, the Livingston Parish Library offers a variety of art exhibits and displays
featuring works of local and regional artists. Check mylpl.info for more info.
RECURRING EVENTS; CHECK YOUR BRANCH OR ONLINE
AT MYLPL.INFO FOR BRANCHES, DATES AND TIMES.
Yoga Class for Adults & Teens
Exercise for Seniors
Book Clubs
Bring a yoga mat & water bottle.
Workout led by a certified physical therapist
Clubs for various ages and interests
Quilting Guild
Ages 18 and up have a day of quilting and sewing. Bring all your sewing supplies and a project.
Writers Circle
Forum for sharing and learning more about writing craft and publishing.
Adult Coloring Adults color, listen to music & socialize. Supplies furnished.
• Antique Shops
• Gift Shops
• Pottery
• Home Decor
• Restaruants
• Multiple Dealer
• Art & Photography
• Women’s Specialty Shops
• Children’s Specialty
• Jewelry & Fine Gifts Shop
• Bookstore
Antique Stores
Shops
• Consignment Stores
with GIA Diamond Graduate
FREE PARKING
Treasure Hunting At Its’ Finest
25 Discover?
Shop at Over
What Will You
STORES!
From I-12, take exit #10 North for 2 miles.
Turn left at Centerville St. and then left on
Ranger Ave. and you’re there!
www.denhamspringsantiquedistict.com
Spend a day with us- And we’ll take you back in time”
AROUND Town
Local musician James Linden Hogg
will perform at Manship Theater
J
ames Linden Hogg will perform and have
a CD release party July 9, 8pm, at the
Hartley/Vey Theater at the Manship Theater
complex in Baton Rouge.
He is a fifteen-year-old musician, singer,
songwriter and historical actor who plays multiple
instruments including banjo, bagpipes, piano, fife,
and pennywhistle and specializes in colonial mu-
sic. But it was his 230-year-old Italian-made violin
that he took to Natchitoches last July when he won
the NSU Folklife Festival’s 2015 Louisiana State
Fiddle Championship.
He has worked in three films, been on national
television, played in Europe and has a brand new
CD entitled “College Fund volume 1.” Tickets are
$12 at http://manshiptheatre.org/events.asp
Tri-Parish Ballet performs at local libraries
The Tri-Parish Ballet will present the free performance La Boutique
Fantastique at area libraries. Come watch as toy dolls, tigers, and poodles
come to life when a toy store closes. All is fantastic iuntil a tourist comes
in and wants to buy one of the toys, and the other toys must devise a plan
to prevent the tourist from taking their friend.
Local performances will be: July 19, 10am at the Main Branch of the
Livingston Parish Library in Livingston; July 20, 10am at the Denham
Springs/Walker Library and 2pm at the Watson Library; and July 21, 10am
at the South Library. 225-665-3414 or 225-933-4811.
VETS Rockin’ on the River
Come out and spend the day July 9 on the Tickfaw river and enjoy free
food, live music, a silent auction and so much more! Tickfaw Boopalu’s is
once again hosting this event to support Quad Area’s VETS Program &
the Winnie Sibley Veterans Village, our homeless veterans’ transitional
house. Raffle tickets are on sale now for $5 each for a chance to win this
year’s prizes: a custom-painted 4 wheeler, a custom-painted golf cart and a
shotgun. Proceeds go to Quad Area C.A.A. See www.quadarea.org or www.
facebook.com/QUADAREA
July Photography exhibit at Arts Council
The Arts Council of Livingston Parish will have a photography exhibit
and sale at its gallery during the month of July. The public is invited to attend
a free reception for the artists July 9, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featured photographers are Earl Arboneaux Jr., John Gallagher, Kathleen “Kitty” Kuhnert,
Pierce Rainey, Kathy Reeves, Steve Uffman and Ken Wilson. The gallery is
at 133 Hummell St., Denham Springs. artslivingston.org; 225-664-1168.
Children create “Circle Art” at the Arts Council
The circle is a symbol that represents unity and the universe all over the
world. Instructor Kerry Curtin will teach “circle art” July 16, 10-11:15am, to
ages 8-14. No fee, and all supplies are provided. Registration required. Call
225-664-1168 or email [email protected].
Also see www.artslivingston.org.
BBB’s Business to business networking luncheon
Colonel Michael Edmonson, Supt. of the Louisiana State
Police, will be the speaker for the Better Business Bureau
luncheon July 12 at Oak Lodge Reception and Conference
Center, 2834 South Sherwood Forest Blvd., Baton Rouge. He
will discuss public safety; threat assessment to Louisiana;
Crime in the state; and thoughts about our capital city being
the second most dangerous city in the United States. Check
in 11:30 a.m., program 12-1 p.m. Register at https://www.bbb.
org/baton-rouge/for-businesses/b2b-event-flyers/; email bjm@
batonrouge.bbb.org or call 225-346-8343.
Don’t miss V. Watts Trade Days!
July 9, and the second Saturday of every month, will bring
a day of browsing, buying and fun at V. Watts Trade Days! For
info, visit their FB page www.facebook.com/VWattsTradeMart
DSHS Jackettes present a concert by
The Molly Ringwalds
The fundraiser by the
Denham Springs High School
Jackettes dance team is a
performance by The Molly
Ringwalds, a musical touring
group billed as The World’s
Greatest 80s Experience!
Travel back in time and
experience the 80s like never before. July 29, 9:30-11:30 pm
at North Park gym. Get tickets from any Jackette or Jackette
parent or email jackettefundraiser@ gmail.com.
AROUND Town
Cosmic Con performance to benefit
Livingston Parish Children’s Choir
T
ickets are now on sale for the LPCC
Dinner Theatre’s Cosmic Con to
be held July 14 - 16. Cost is $30 per
seat, sold only as tables of 8 - 10. Individual
tables available at $35 per seat beginning
June 1. G-rated cosplay welcome. Doors open
at Central High School at 5:30 p.m. with buffet dinner at 6:30 p.m. Purchase tickets online
at www.LPCCsing.org.Picking and Singing
Shop the Denham Springs
Farmers’ Market every Saturday
Livingston Parish Farmer’s Market
is located at 215 Florida Avenue SE
in the New Covenant Church parking,
near the Denham Springs Antique Village. It is open on Saturday mornings
from 7 AM to 12 PM. At the market,
you will find a wide assortment of
produce. The available produce varies
by the week depending on what is
in season. In addition, the farmer’s
market is an outstanding place to find
foods made from locally grown produce such as jams and baked goods.
Grand Country Junction is
“Your Hometown Branson Show”
The newest Branson-style show is
right here in the heart of Livingston
Parish just north of Interstate 12 at exit
19 in Satsuma Louisiana at the Suma
Crossing Theatre. Grand Country
Junction is presented every the Saturday of each month. (225) 567-3516 or
(985) 507-9432.
Old South Jamboree
The Original Old South Jamboree
in Walker is one of Louisiana’s longest
running family country and gospel
shows. It features “Carlton Jones and
His Red Hot Country Band” on the
first and third Saturday each month..
Submit events for our “Around
Town” column to newsandevents@
inspiredmedia-LA.com by the 5th
of each month for publication that
month. Published at no charge as
space allows and at discretion of the
editor.
NEWS Makers
Rick Wentzel is chosen as new superintendent
T
he Livingston Parish School Board has named Rick Wentzel
as the new superintendent of Livingston Parish Schools.
Wentzel replaces retiring Supt. John Watson effective July 1.
Wentzel has served as a teacher at Live Oak High and Bellaire
High School; as an assistant principal at Southside Junior High and
principal at Springfield High and Walker Junior High. He has also
served as human resources director for the school system and, for the
past three years, as assistant superintendent.
Local man pushes for better water in Satsuma
Satsuma resident Robert Beard is spearheading a movement to gain public
support for his quest to persuade the Corps of Engineers to allow the installation of a water line along Milton Lane to Spring Ranch Road which would
provide clean water to homes currently relying on water wells producing
poor-quality water unfit to drink. The water line would also permit a new water
tower and sewer plant in the area to begin operation. He is asking other residents of Livingston Parish to contact the Corps, Parish President Layton Ricks,
parish council members and elected representatives and ask for their help.
North Oaks names student athletes of the year
The North Oaks Sports Medicine team and North Oaks Physician Group
orthopaedic surgeons announce that Emily Waddell and Jebadiah Kraft of Ponchatoula High School, along with Hannah Vicknair and Cheyenne Labruzza of
Rick Wentzel
Albany High School, have received 2015-16 Student-Athletes of the Year honors.
Recipients were selected from all Student-Athletes of the Month for both Tangipahoa and Livingston parishes based on the number of votes received via an online
poll conducted at www.northoaks.org.
Hannah Vicknair completed her junior year at Albany High School, where she
is a member of the girls basketball and track teams, with a 4.0 GPA. She served
as Student Government Junior Representative, Fellowship of Christian Students
President and a Football Student Trainer/Manager. She is the daughter of Scott
and Jennifer Vicknair, and is an active member of Bethlehem Baptist Church in
Albany.
Cheyenne Labruzza rounded out his junior year at Albany High School with a
4.1 GPA. He served as captain of the football team and has already committed to
play football for the University of Tennessee upon graduation in 2017. He is the son
of Tracy Parker and Paula Suarez and also belongs to the Fellowship of Christian
Athletes and Beta Club.
To learn more about North Oaks Sports Medicine or the Student-Athlete of the
Month/Year program, call North Oaks Public Relations at 985-230-6647 or visit
www.northoaks.org/sportsmedicine.
Investar Bank celebrates 10 year anniversary
“We would like to thank our customers who have been loyal to us over the
years and welcomed us into their amazing communities,” said John D’Angelo,
president and CEO, Investar Bank. “I founded this bank 10 years ago to help make
life better for people and businesses in Southeast Louisiana. Investar Bank has
grown to 10 locations with over $1 billion in assets.”
Investar Bank has many milestones to celebrate, such as organic growth, mergers & acquisitions and going public on the NASDAQ in 2014, but serving people
has been the most gratifying of all.
Submit notices of a person’s or group’s newsworthy events for this “Newsmakers” column to [email protected]. Submissions
are due by the 5th of each month for publication that month. There is no
charge. Items are published as space allows.
get fit anytime!
HAVE
You HEARD
Beyond the Badge to award “Heart of Law Enforcement”
E
ach year, Beyond the Badge
will select Louisiana law enforcement officers who have
been nominated by their agencies or
the public to receive a “Heart of Law
Enforcement” award in recognition
of acts of kindness they performed
during the previous calendar year.
Nominees must have performed
acts of kindness that were not required of them in their regular duties
as law enforcement officers. Nomi-
Bridal exhibit at Old City Hall
The new exhibit at old city hall features gowns, accessories, photography
and more of local brides, going back half a century or more. See the contrast
between modern and vintage wedding dresses, bridal portraits and more.
The items are on exhibit that Old City Hall, 115 Mattie St. , in the heart of
the Denham Springs Antiques Village.
nees will be considered for acts they
performed while on duty or off, and
whether or not they were in uniform
at the time.
To nominate a Louisiana law
enforcement officer or to learn more
about Beyond the Badge, visit the web
site, www.beyondthebadgelouisiana.
org, or on Facebook.
Beyond the Badge is a 501 (c)(3)
non-profit organization that is operated entirely by volunteers.
the spotlight on local food, people and happenings through personal
interaction and experiences.
Everyone who signs up for blog updates at pelicanstateofmind.com
will receive the free eBook 40 Ways to Save When You’re Terrible at
Saving from Pelican. For more information email blog@pelicanstatecu.
com or call 225-408-6339.
LP Children’s Choir Camp in July
The LPCC Camp will be held July 25 - 28 from
2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Denham Springs First Baptist Church for kindergarten through fifth grade.
Cost is $60 and includes T-shirt and daily snack.
Register online at www.LPCCsing.org. For more
information, e-mail BarbaraWalker@LPCCsing.
org or call 225-247-8555.
Arts Council Beading Group
creates bead art monthly
Share and learn about jewelry designing with
beads and beading. Bring a jewelry project (with
supplies) you are working on or one that you may
need a little help with. Some supplies may be
available.
Meetings are held monthly on the first Tuesday
of each month at 6:30 p.m. at The Arts Council
of Livingston Parish, located at 133 Hummell St.,
Denham Springs. $5 fee for each meeting to cover
classroom rental and is open to the public. Call
664-1168 to reserve a space.
Give Me Summer, Give Me Books
reading rewards program
Play “Reading Bingo” at Cavalier House Books
in The Denham Springs Antiques Village to win
buttons posers, stickers and prizes. Plus, each
bingo wins an entry into a grand prize drawing
for a $25 gift certificate to the store. There is also
a reading program for adults. See details at http://
www.cavalierhousebooks.com/give-me-summergive-me-books-bingo or call Cavalier House.
Pelican launches blog
Pelican State of Mind
Pelican State Credit Union announces the July
1 launch of its new blog, Pelican State of Mind,
which presents Louisiana family fun and finance
information. The family and fun sections of the
blog will spotlight local communities, businesses,
events and credit union members. Pelican’s team
members across the state will contribute to putting
COMMUNITY
The triathlon is a family community event
Register now for annual PARDS triathlon
P
ARDS’ annual mini triathlon, SPLASH,
ROLL, AND RUN, is coming back August
13 for competitors ages 15 and up. This
year’s competition will also include a children’s Aquathon for ages 5 to 14 years old.
The Adult competition consists of a 150-yard
swim in the Fitness and Aquatics Center’s indoor
pool, a 12-mile bike route through Livingston Parish,
and a 2-mile run through North Park. The children’s
Aquathon consists of a 50- or 100-yard swim,
followed by a 1/2-mile, or 1- mile, or 1.5-mile run,
depending on the age bracket.
Fees are: adult individual: $65; adult relay team
$85; and children $45 (no children’s relay teams).
Splash, Roll, and Run is considered a sprint triathlon. Although it is not a USAT-sanctioned race, it‘s a
great race to get your season started for tri-athletes,
or a fun “bucketlist” event for those who have never
participated in a triathlon.
The triathlon is a family community event that
includes many local sponsors providing booths, food,
music, prizes and a fun time for all. Awards and
placement will be announced in the basketball gym.
For more information including the competition
route map and to print a registration form, download
the official brochure at www.pardsla.com. You may
also register online at www.CajunTiming.com. 225664-8099.
r e g idownload
s t e r thea official
t w wbrochure
w . Catawww.pardsla.com
j u nT i m i n g . c o m
COMMUNITY
Want to take a family vacation … without leaving town?
Visit Jerusalem Marketplace: Where Jesus walked to the cross
B
ring your entire family to Jerusalem Marketplace: Where Jesus Walked to the Cross. You’ll
travel back into Biblical times—without setting
foot outside our community. This fun, hands-on village
will be set up at New Covenant Baptist Church in Denham
Springs.
Your family can become part of history as they see,
hear, touch, and even taste what it was like to live in
ancient Jerusalem! You’ll explore authentic marketplace
shops, become students in synagogue school, take part in
games, dance to lively Bible songs and sample tasty tidbits
as you discover more about life when Jesus walked the
earth.
These experiences make God’s Word come alive with
new meaning for all who participate! You’ll want to invite
friends, neighbors and others in your family to join you.
Families will band together to form small tribal units
. . . one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Small family tribes
ensure that every participant is welcomed, encouraged to
participate and affirmed. You may even want to come in a
simple robe or tunic so you’ll fit right into the setting!
Jerusalem Marketplace is great fun for children of
all ages and their families. So mark these dates on your
calendar: Sunday, July 17 through Thursday, July 21. The
adventure starts at 6:00 pm and will end at 8:15 pm each
evening.
To register your family for this awesome Bible adventure, complete the registration form on the website; then
plan to attend Jerusalem Marketplace!
Details: New Covenant Baptist Church, 215 Florida Avenue SE, Denham Springs.
Phone 225-664-0858 or email [email protected] if you have any
question or concerns. http://newcovenantds.com/fme2016 or www.ilovevbsorg
www.iLoveVBS.org to register
BUSINESS Update
Dr. Bobby Leach retiring after 40 years in dentistry
“The Bible says there is a season for all
things,” Dr. Bobby Leach said, “and after 40
years of serving people, it seems that the season of my work will soon be over.”
Dr. Bobby Leach is eyeing the end of his
long career as a dentist in Denham Springs,
with plans to retire somewhere near the end of
2016.
He came to Denham Springs from Shreveport and was hired by Dr. Milton Hughes.
After working with Dr. Hughes for almost 23
years he opened his own practice.
“In the beginning of my practice, I brought
in three or four new graduates over the years
to help with my practice and for me to help
them get started,” Dr. Leach said.
And then his son Tim Leach became a
dentist in 2007 and joined him.
“I was happy to go into practice with my
dad. He wasn’t pushing me to do it at all; it
was okay if did, and okay if didn’t,” Dr. Tim
Leach said. “I decided in high school that
dentistry was what I wanted to do – it felt like
it was what I was supposed to do. It was good
to join him and have him show me the ropes.
I learned dentistry in school, but he taught me
the real world part of running an office and
managing the business aspect. It’s been nice to
have had the opportunity to work with him.”
As far as his retirement plans go, Dr. Bobby
Leach said, “I don’t have a lot of hobbies,
but my wife Janet and I like to travel and do
mission work.”
He has previously worked at missions in
Yemen, Haiti, Columbia and Paraguay, and
Janet has gone to Nicaragua and Ecuador. And
“I just want to thank my staff; they have been a wonderful help to me,
and I thank all our patients for being part of our practice, I hope I served
you well. May God bless you.”
Dr. Bobby Leach
Dr. Bobby Leach, right, will soon be retiring after 40 years in dentistry and passing the practice to his son, Dr. Tim Leach, left.
then, of course, they will enjoy having more time
with their grandchildren.
“I just want to thank my staff; they have been
a wonderful help to me, and I thank all our patients for being part of our practice,” Dr. Bobby
Leach said. “I hope I served you well. May God
bless you.”
Dr. Tim Leach will continue the practice at
277 E. Railroad Ave # B, Denham Springs, 225791-0777, and he is accepting new patients.
BUSINESS Update
“This project showcases the creative and innovative uses
precast concrete can offer for marine construction projects.”
Ty Gable,
president of National Precast Concrete Association
Greg and Lisa Roache
accept the 3rd place
award for creative use
of precast concrete.
The Breasting Dolphin
precast concrete project
for which Gainey’s
Concrete Products won
a national award.
Local Company earns 3rd place in national competition
G
ainey’s Concrete Products of Holden earned a third place award in the
annual Creative Use of Precast Awards competition sponsored by the
National Precast Concrete Association for its work for a Mississippi
River port. The award was presented to the company at The Precast Show 2016 in
Nashville, Tenn.
When Gainey’s Concrete Products took on the project of creating custom
“breasting dolphins” for a Mississippi River port, they knew it would be a challenge – but they were up for it.
A breasting dolphin is a man-made marine structure embedded in the bedrock
which extends above the water level near the shore, enabling the berthing of a ship.
From setup to mold removal, it took three days to complete each deck. One of
the biggest challenges was casting an 8-foot, 2-inch-thick steel plate into the deck.
The company welded Nelson studs into the plate and pipe in a specified 9-inch
pattern. The pipe had to be cast flush with the top of the concrete. The pattern was
rotated in a specific angle with reference to the deck.
“This project embodied all that we love about custom projects, particularly the
way all departments team up from engineering to fabrication team leaders to solve
the challenges each new design brings. And what was even better than shipping out
this structure we were so proud of, was having our customer send us the installation photos so we could see our hard work standing tall on the river,” said Cyndi
Glascock, Senior Design Manager, Gainey’s Concrete Products.
The design changed multiple times throughout the project, causing the precaster
to alter drawings and rethink methods for each change. In the end, the project was
accurately fabricated and delivered on time.
“This project showcases the creative and innovative uses precast concrete can
offer for marine construction projects,” said Ty Gable, president of National Precast
Concrete Association.
The National Precast Concrete Association (precast.org) represents more than
600 manufacturing firms and nearly 300 supplier companies operating in the
precast concrete sector of the construction industry in North America. Based in
Indianapolis, NPCA provides technical services, educational programs, safety
expertise and certification programs for the industry.
NEW BUSINESS News
Tea Time Couture’s lines,
include a wide variety
of ready-made and
custom-made clothing
for girls and boys.
Above, children enjoy
one of the art classes
offered at the boutique.
Tea Time Couture combines
children’s clothing, toys and a party venue
By Kellee Hennessy Dickerson
T
ea Time Couture Children’s Boutique and Play
Venue is one of the most
innovative shops of its kind, and it’s
now open in Walker with clothing,
gifts, toys, and accessories – as well
Melanie Kreamer, owner of Tea Time Boutique,
can create custom-made
holiday clothing,
costumes and almost
anything a customer
can dream up.
as space available for birthdays and
other events. They offer unique hassle-free birthday parties for children
with photography sessions and the
option of a custom outfit for your
child – all at one place.
Owner Melanie Kreamer has
more than 12 years’ experience in
graphic design, advertising, marketing and photography.
“I am a mom of three, and I
wanted to create a one-stop shop for
Tea Time, 22
Home Loans With Great Rates
NEW HOME • REFINANCE • HOME EQUITY
Nicole Gautreau
Mortgage Lending Manager
CELL: 225-445-4778
EMAIL: [email protected]
NMLS# 419445
lacapfcu.org • 225.342.5055
We make loans to qualified
creditworthy members.
FEDERALLY INSURED BY NCUA
OBJ0416-05
Tea Time, p20
all moms to get custom children’s clothes as well as
ready-made clothing, unique gifts and educational
toys, and offer party rooms for birthdays, showers, meetings, painting and craft classes, summer
camps and more. And, the best part is parents can
drop off their children or come with them and not
have to worry about clean-up,” Kreamer said.
Tea Time Couture carries ready-made clothing
for girls from newborn to size 16, and for boys,
newborn to a size 6. They have an extensive jewelry line for children and girls’ hair bows.
Their unique toy line caters to both girls and
boys,
“We carry one of the best toy lines in the country, which is Melissa and Doug, the largest carrier
of educational toys. Wooden toys in this line are
so durable they are passed down from generation
to generation. Every child and parent falls in love
with these toys.”Kreamer said.
She has a play area inside the store so kids can
test out the toys while mom shops.
As far as the custom clothing, Kreamer creates
birthday and holiday outfits, elaborate costumes,
pageant casual and basically anything you dream
up.
“You simply come in, and I’ll design the outfit.
You choose the fabric from a vast assortment on
hand, and I will do all the work in-house,” Kreamer explained.
For special occasions, she has created everything from Peter Pan to Snow White to Frozen, and
everything in-between. She also creates Disney-inspired outfits for family trips and cruises. And get
this, she is self-taught!
“I started with the pillowcase dresses, which
were too expensive to buy, bought myself a sewing
machine, and I have been sewing, embroidering
and monogramming for the past 13 years.” Kreamer added.
Tea’s Times offers a
large venue and party
rooms which can be
rented and dressed
up for formal teas or
showers, or decorated
in the theme or a child’s
birthday party.
How about those in-house party rooms?
“We have a 1600-square-foot facility with two
extra party rooms, and parents can rent the room
and host their own party and bring their own food,
or they can pick the theme and we’ll do the rest.
Most parents really love it.” Kreamer said.
They are also holding a series of summer activities through July; check their Facebook page for
more details.
“We offer a unique shopping and party experience for our customers. Tea Time Couture is a fun
one-stop shop for clothes, gifts, toys and parties of
all types. We offer lots of different products, many
from local vendors, and we can ship anywhere, and
we support many local charities,” Kreamer said.
Details: Tea Time Couture, 9790 Florida
Boulevard, Walker, about 2/3 mile from
Walker North Road. 225.361.9084. Hours:
10-6 Tuesday-Saturday. Facebook: www.
facebook.com/Teatimecoutureboutique.
SPECIAL Feature
Average hurricane season with about 16 named
storms is predicted ... but then we’ve already had 3, a record for this early
By Helen Wale Turner
H
urricane season each year begins June 1 and ends November 30,
although the formation of a hurricane is possible at any time if
conditions are right. Hurricane Alex, a rarity, struck the Azores
in January 2016. Tropical storm Bonnie dumped almost 14 inches of rain
on the Carolinas just a few weeks ago at the end of May. We’ve already had
our third tropical storm of the season, Colin, which made landfall June 6
near Tampa, Florida. This sets a record for the earliest in the season to have
three named storms.
Peak activity usually occurs later in the season, from August through
October, with the greatest activity occurring usually in early to mid-September. Destructive hurricanes which made landfall in Louisiana in
August or later months from 1957-2012, include Audrey 1957, Ethel 1960,
Carla 1961, Hilda 1964, Betsy 1965, Camille 1969, Andrew 1992, Katrina
2005, Rita 2005, Gustav 2008, Ike 2008 and Isaac 2012.
Weather forecasters believe 2016 will be an average season for tropical
storms, with Colorado State University calling for a total of 12 named
storms, five hurricanes and two major hurricanes. Years 2010, 2011 and
2012 all had 19 named storms; the prediction for 2013 is 16 named storms.
A major factor which goes into predicting hurricane activity include
water temperatures throughout the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
The variable that could change that prediction is how quickly water temperatures start increasing; the faster the waters warm and the warmer they
get, the more conducive they are to storm formation.
Hurricane categories
The National Hurricane Center defines five hurricane categories according to the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale. The
scale gives an estimate of the storm’s danger but is not definitive. Hurricane Katrina in 2005 peaked as a category 5 while
still in the Gulf of Mexico but weakened to a category 3 by
landfall. However, even as a 3, Katrina became the costliest
natural disaster, as well as one of the five deadliest hurricanes,
in the history of the United States. The storm is currently
ranked as the third most intense United States landfalling
tropical cyclone, behind only the 1935 Labor Day hurricane
and Hurricane Camille in 1969. Overall, at least 1,245 people
died in the hurricane and subsequent floods, making it the
deadliest United States hurricane since the 1928 Okeechobee
hurricane. Total property damage was estimated at $108
billion, roughly four times the damage wrought by Hurricane
Andrew in 1992. Hurricane Sandy in 2012, also a 3, is the
second-costliest hurricane in the U.S., and at least 233 people
were killed along the path of the storm in eight countries.
• Category 1 Hurricanes are the lowest intensity storms
with winds between 74-95 miles per hour and a storm surge
of 4-5 feet. The official damage estimate is: No real damage
to building structures. Damage primarily to unanchored
mobile homes, shrubbery, and trees. Some damage to poorly
constructed signs. Also, some coastal road flooding and minor
pier damage.
• Category 2 Hurricanes have wind speeds between 96110 miles per hour and a storm surge of 6-8 feet. The National
SPECIAL Feature
Naming hurricanes
Storms first go through a tropical
depression stage and are given a name if
they are upgraded to a tropical depression.
With Alex, Bonnie and Colin already used,
the Danielle, Earl, Fiona, Gaston, Hermine,
Igor, Julia, Karl, Lisa, Matthew, Nicole, Otto,
Paula, Richard, Shary, Tobias, Virginie and
Walter.
The Atlantic basin has a six year supply
of names with 21 names for each year
for each letter of the alphabet – with the
exceptions of the letters Q, U, X, Y and Z
that are not used because names beginning
with those letters are in short supply. The
six lists are used in rotation, and names are
retired if a storm is particularly destructive
Hurricane Center describes the expected damage
as: Some roofing material, door, and window
damage of buildings. Considerable damage to
shrubbery and trees with some trees blown down.
Considerable damage to mobile homes, poorly
constructed signs, and piers. Coastal and low-lying escape routes flood 2-4 hours before arrival of
the hurricane center. Small craft in unprotected
anchorages break moorings.
• Category 3 Hurricanes exhibit wind speeds
between 111-130 miles per hour and a storm surge
of 9-12 feet. The expected damage from a category three storm is: Some structural damage to
small residences and utility buildings with a minor
amount of curtainwall failures. Damage to shrubbery and trees with foliage blown off trees and
large trees blown down. Mobile homes and poorly
constructed signs are destroyed. Low-lying escape
routes are cut by rising water 3-5 hours before
arrival of the center of the hurricane. Flooding near
the coast destroys smaller structures with larger
structures damaged by battering from floating
debris.
• Category 4 Hurricanes have winds between
131-155 miles per hour and an associated storm
surge between 13 and 18 feet. The hurricane
center’s damage estimate is that these storms
will cause some complete roof structure failures
on small residences. Shrubs, trees, and all signs
are blown down. Complete destruction of mobile
homes. Extensive damage to doors and windows.
Low-lying escape routes may be cut by rising
water 3-5 hours before arrival of the center of the
hurricane. Terrain lower than 10 ft above sea level
may be flooded requiring massive evacuation of
residential areas as far inland as 6 miles (10 km).
• Category 5 Hurricanes are the top of the
scale. They are characterized by winds in excess
of 155 miles per hour and a storm surge of over 18
feet. Only three storms in recorded history have
made landfall with category five status, including
the infamous Hurricane Andrew in 1992. The
forecast is grim: Complete roof failure on many
residences and industrial buildings. Some complete
building failures with small utility buildings blown
over or away. All shrubs, trees, and signs blown
down. Complete destruction of mobile homes.
Severe and extensive window and door damage.
Low-lying escape routes are cut by rising water 3-5 hours before arrival of the center of the
hurricane. Major damage to lower floors of all
structures located less than 15 ft above sea level
or causes many deaths.
If there are more than 21storms in one
year, then the Greek alphabet is used; thus
we could see Hurricane Alpha, Tropical
Storm Beta, etc. In 2005, there were so
many named storms that the last named
storm of that season was Tropical Storm
Zeta.
and within 500 yards of the shoreline. Massive
evacuation of residential areas on low ground
within 5-10 miles (8-16 km) of the shoreline may
be required.
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Before disaster strikes . . .
The time to prepare for an emergency is NOW
When the weather turns hot, rainy and muggy, you know south Louisiana summer has arrived – along
with hurricane season. And that’s added to the year-round possibility of severe thunderstorms that sometimes
spin off tornadoes and cause flooding and power outages.
Follow these precautions and be prepared for disaster now, before it strikes.
Prepare a family disaster plan:

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


Make a plan for dealing with a tornado, hurricane or flood, and discuss it with all family members.
Plan where you will go if you need to evacuate, and identify primary and alternate routes.
Coordinate an out-of-area emergency contact person (phone and email) for extended family members
and close friends to call to check in after a storm.
Keep a contact list of “pet friendly” evacuate shelters that will accept pets if you one.
If you are advised to evacuate, do so immediately, and take your emergency evacuation box with you (see separate checklist below).
Preparations to make BEFORE a disaster occurs:






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
Have clean-up supplies on hand: a bucket, mop, broom, soap, bleach, etc., as well as a rake, wheel
barrow, large trash bags, etc. for outdoor cleanup. (If there are widespread power outages, most stores
will be closed.)
In anticipation of possible damage to your home, know where to turn off the water main that supplies
water to your house and where the main electrical breaker is for your home.
Have a working fire extinguisher on the premises, plus supplies to make quick home repairs.
If you have a generator, service it now as the manufacturer recommends, then start it up and let it run
several minutes.
If you have a land-line phone at home, keep an inexpensive traditional plug-in phone on hand because
cordless land-line phones won’t work during electrical outages.
Have a supply of water, plus food that does not require refrigeration or cooking. And don’t forget a
manual can opener.
Have charcoal and lighter or an outdoor butane burner ready for cooking.
Check out the emergency mobile apps at the redcross.org website.
Assemble an emergency evacuation box:
Besides having food on hand for your home consumption, gather food, water and important document
copies in a sturdy, waterproof container that can be grabbed and placed in the trunk of a car in a hurry should
you need to leave home quickly due to a hurricane, tornado, flood or other emergency. A large plastic storage
bin is ideal for this. If you gathered supplies for an emergency kit last year, it’s time to replace your batteries,
bottled water and canned goods with fresh items. Suggested items for your emergency kit are:
 Copies of important documents in a large plastic zippered bag, including birth certificates, health
insurance cards and policies for homeowners, flood, auto and life insurance. (Original documents
should be in a safe-deposit box).
 Essential health records for family members and pets, including lists of prescriptions and doctors’
names and phone numbers. Again, place in a plastic zippered bag.
 Use a jump-drive or cloud storage for backup copies of your most precious photos and important docu
ments.
 Bottled water and food (ready-to-eat non-perishable items) for three days and a manual can opener.
 Toiletries, including hand sanitizer, soap, toothpaste and toohbrushes, etc., and a first-aid kit.
 Any special items needed for infants, elderly or disabled family members.
 At least one change of clothes for everyone, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, rain gear and
sturdy footwear.
 A hand-crank or battery-powered radio and flashlight with extra batteries.
 An extra car charger for your cell phone and a converter that allows you to charge devices in your car.
 An extra set of your home and car keys.
 A few books or magazines and simple toys and games (with few pieces) for children.
 Plastic utensils, paper towels, paper plates, toilet paper and moist wipes.
 A blanket or sleeping bag and pillow per person.
Do this when a hurricane or flood warning is issued for your area:
 Fill up your vehicle’s gas tank and a gas can for a generator if you have one.
 Get cash, with small bills; banks and ATMs will not be accessible when there are electrical outages.
 Fully charge your cell phone and a laptop or tablet, and take them and their chargers with you if you
evacuate.
 Refill all prescription medicines and place in a plastic zip bag you can grab in a hurry.
 Ice may be in short supply, so purchase a few bags of ice for a cooler, and if you have freezer space
available, freeze water in plastic bowls, tubs, buckets, etc., since solid ice stays frozen longer and will
help keep food cold if power is out.
 Stow away lawn chairs and other outdoor items that could float or be blown away.
 If you evacuate, turn off the water supply to the house and turn off air conditioners and other electrical
devices.
 Once a hurricane, tornado or flood warning is issued, place your fully-stocked emergency bin in the
trunk of your car and be ready to leave quickly if it becomes necessary.
 Remind family and close friends of your emergency evacuation and contact plans.
SPECIAL Feature
Can you function as a business in
the aftermath of a natural disaster?
Keeping your business in business following a disaster
L
imiting the amount of time
your business is closed after
an emergency situation is
crucial. Businesses should prepare a
comprehensive business continuation
plan ahead of time to outline how they
will continue to function in the aftermath
of a natural disaster.
After you’ve made plans to ensure
the safety of your employees, devise a
plan to help keep your business open if
your building is damaged or loses electricity for days or weeks:
• Consider the different types of
disasters—fire, flood, tornado, hurricane,
etc.—that can occur and how your business would respond to each if displaced
for a week or month and possibly losing
inventory or work equipment.
• Determine locations where
your business could operate if you are
displaced from your current building.
This could mean enabling employees to
work from home or finding an alternate
building for your operations.
• Decide under what conditions
your business will close and how you
will notify customers and employees of
your closure.
• Update contact information for
all employees including home and cell
phones, personal email, and at least one
emergency contact person in the event
the employee cannot be reached through
their own phone.
• Devise an emergency communications plan that outlines how your
business will communicate with employees, customers, vendors and other key
external contacts in the days following a
disaster. Consider having all employees
contact a specified phone number each
day following a hurricane or other severe
storm to find out if the business will be
open that day and for the employee to
report their whereabouts. A company
Facebook page could be helpful for this.
• Establish a succession of management for the company. Determine who
will manage the company if key leaders
are unavailable.
• Identify core staff who are essential to the operations of the business and
would need to be present, or a substitute
provided for them, for your business to
reopen.
• Contact vendors/suppliers to
confirm their emergency response
plan procedures. Be prepared to use
alternate vendors for essential supplies
and equipment if necessary. Have your
back-up equipment kept in good working
condition.
• Have an up-to-date inventory
of your assets. Review your insurance
policies to ensure that you have adequate
coverage for items you cannot afford to
lose. A standard policy may not cover
business interruption losses.
• Keep duplicates of personnel, payroll, payables and receivables and other
essential records at an off-site location.
Make daily back-up copies of computer
files and store offsite or in the cloud.
• Consider purchasing a generator if
the consequences of the loss of electricity for more than a couple days would
outweigh the cost of a generator system
that could support your business.
After the storm passes
Even though the hurricane or other storm has passed
and the winds have subsided, many dangers can still exist,
so observe these precautions:
• Stay away from downed power lines or poles and
report them to the power company.
• Use caution when cleaning up debris. Tree limbs
and other debris can conduct electricity making your yard
or damaged home a very unsafe area.
• Keep freezer and refrigerator doors closed while
you are without electricity. Food should stay good in a full
freezer for about two days and for about six hours in the
refrigerator.
• Do not enter flooded buildings until the water
recedes.
• When using a generator, follow all manufacturers’
guidelines for personal use. Never use a generator indoors
as carbon monoxide from the exhaust can be deadly. Main
breakers should be open to avoid feeding power back into
the main lines and creating a hazard to our electric company crews while they work to restore your power.
• Check your power company, cable and other
utilities’ websites, Facebook pages and apps to report
outages, check outage maps and find restoration estimates.
Websites may be accessible when phone lines are down
or jammed and will probably be more comprehensive and
updated more frequently.
• If storm damage makes your home uninhabitable
evacuate to a shelter or relative’s home. Let your extended
family and employer know where you are and that you are
safe.
LETTER TO THE Editor
Federal model for disaster management is stuck on stupid
Bill requires FEMA to recommend ways to reduce losses and produce savings
J
une is upon us, bringing with
it the things we love about
summer in South Louisiana:
longer days, snowballs, cicadas buzzing in the background and maybe a
family trip to the beach. It’s also the
time of year to keep a watchful eye
on the Gulf of Mexico as we’re making plans to beat the heat – June is the
official start of the Atlantic Hurricane
Season. Despite the unusual, 9 year
drought of Category 3 storms making
US landfall, Louisiana natives know
that the run of luck can’t hold forever.
The Congressional Budget Office
recently released a report predicting
that federal costs associated with
hurricane damage could rise 39%
in coming decades, attributing the
increase to climate conditions and
development trends along our nation’s
coast. Regardless what the exact figures turn out to be, we know it won’t
get cheaper - that’s why I’ve been
outspoken about shifting the federal
model for disaster management and
community resilience.
We’ve spent hundreds of billions
of dollars on disaster response as a
country, but a fraction of that could
have been spent to prevent damages.
Multiple government and independent
reports show that every one dollar
invested in prevention and resiliency saves as much as four dollars in
disaster response costs. But our government is stuck on stupid: instead
of making these investments on the
front end, it’s dead-set on this broken
process of coming in after a disaster
and spending exponentially more
dollars. We have to break this cycle
and redesign policies around resiliency to stop hemorrhaging billions of
dollars after the fact - that approach is
wasteful and leaves our communities,
economies and ecosystems just as
susceptible as they were before the
event.
Earlier this year, I supported
House passage of a bill reauthorizing
the programs and activities of the
Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA), and we worked
hard to ensure that it included language to lay the groundwork for a
paradigm shift. The bill commissions
an assessment of trends in disaster
losses—their causes and amounts—
and requires the agency to submit
finally set to
recommenbe authodations to
Congress
rized.
on how to
Despite
reduce losses
advanceand produce
ments in
savings for
the world
taxpayers.
around them,
Last month,
agencies like
we advanced
FEMA and
legislation
the Corps of
authorizing
Engineers
US Army
largely
Corps of
operate today
Engineers
the same way
programs
they have
and included
since their
provisions
inception.
U.S. Rep. Garret Graves
to accelerFor example,
ate completion timelines for water
FEMA was established at the end
resources development projects
of the 1970’s to coordinate response
critical to the structural resiliency of
efforts in the wake of disasters and
our communities. The bill also emmostly applies the same, decades-old
mentality in 2016. But static solutions
powers local entities and cuts costly
will never fix dynamic problems –
bureaucratic barriers that impede the
like the rapidly changing conditions
progress of these projects – like the
44-year study of the West Shore Lake along Louisiana’s coast. Coordinating
relief efforts is absolutely important,
Pontchartrain Project, which is now
but it’s only one component of how
we ought to be thinking about disaster management and should not be the
core mission of our federal disaster
agency. Its core mission should be
prevention, i.e., “how can we best
invest today to prepare for and reduce
the severity and expense of inevitable
natural occurrences?”
Why is changing the approach so
difficult? You know the answer: government is change averse. Self-preservation and bureaucratic complacency have a vice grip on the status
quo. But the status quo is preventing
better service for taxpayers who want
and should demand better – and it’s
putting people in harm’s way.
Unlike what’s brewing in the Gulf,
a disturbance in Washington is exactly what we need, and being an agent
of that change gets me out of bed in
the morning. We’re going to untangle
this bureaucracy and make government work - one agency at a time.
Garret Graves
Member of Congress
PURCHASE | REFINANCE | NEW CONSTRUCTION
Jackie Dykes
Senior Mortgage Banker
178 Del Orleans Ave. Ste. D
Denham Springs, LA 70726
225.405.6964
[email protected]
gmfslending.com/jackie.dykes
NMLS #121882
#1
GMFS LLC is an Equal Housing Lender. All mortgages are originated by GMFS LLC at 7389 Florida Blvd. Suite 200A Baton Rouge, LA 70806.
NMLS #64997. LA License 619. Branch is located at 178 Del Orleans Ave. Ste D, Denham Springs, LA. Branch NMLS #307667.
A+ Rating
COVER Story
Integrity Insurance provides
protection, information, guidance
Ashley Ouber, Christy Caldwell, Megan Koles Granthan, Sarah Louise Quezada Davis, Marie Labello and Randy Koles
Over 30 years’ experience
as locally-owned independent insurance agency
W
ith hurricane season upon us, Integrity Insurance reminds everyone that a little preparation
now can be invaluable when another storm
hits Louisiana.
Along with having a plan for protecting your home and
family in the event of hurricanes, severe thunderstorms,
floods and other events, people need to be informed about
what their insurance does – and does not – cover. Integrity
Insurance includes education on all aspects of insurance as
part of their mission when servicing clients.
In their seasonal emails and newsletters, Integrity recommends using the renewal date of your homeowner’s policy
each year as the best time to call them to schedule a review
of your needs. Of course, a review can be requested at any
time – and the sooner the better. Any changes must be made
before a tropical storm is threatening.
COVER Story
Review it!
“Our professionals at Integrity Insurance can advise
you on the optimum amount of insurance needed,
your deductible options, and various riders to cover
your other needs. Since we are an independent agency,
we can check coverages and premiums with different
insurance companies to find the best fit for you.
“If you have made any additions
or improvements to your home,
inside or out, your insurance policy
should be reviewed to make sure
you have adequate coverage.”
Sarah Louise Quezada Davis,
owner of Integrity Insurance
Remember, flooding can
happen everywhere...
Hurricane season
IS HERE
Even if 2016 is a relatively quiet Atlantic hurricane season, it only takes one
storm to devastate a large area. Weather
can be unpredictable, and tropical storms
can form quickly. Once a storm enters the
Gulf of Mexico, most insurance companies
suspend writing homeowners’ insurance
policies until the storm threat is over. Also,
it may take 30 days after purchase for
some policies to take effect, so it’s important to get your insurance or increase your
coverage now.
“If you have made any additions or
improvements to your home, inside or out,
your insurance policy should be reviewed
to make sure you have adequate coverage,”
said Sarah Louise Quezada Davis, owner
of Integrity Insurance.
“Our professionals at Integrity Insurance can advise you on the optimum
amount of insurance needed, your deductible options, and various riders to cover
your other needs. Since we are an independent agency, we can check coverages and
premiums with different insurance companies to find the best fit for you.
Danger of flooding after storms
“Hurricanes and even prolonged heavy thunderstorms can bring heavy rains, flash
flooding, and rising bayous and rivers. Homeowners insurance does not cover flooding; you
must have a separate flood insurance policy,” Davis advised. “Remember, flooding can happen everywhere; just because you may not have experienced a flood before, it doesn’t mean
that you’re not at risk for flooding in the future.”
COVER Story
As a property owner, what can you do
to lower your flood insurance costs?
• Obtain an elevation certificate
to determine your true risk premium
and to make informed decisions about
flood mitigation and rebuilding.
• Consider changing to higher
deductibles which might lower your
premium.
• Consider incorporating flood
mitigation measures into your remodeling or rebuilding such as elevating
or rebuilding higher to possibly lower
your flood risk and reduce premiums.
• Schedule an appointment to talk
to an Integrity professional to discuss
your options.
Integr ity continues
TO
SERVE
Livingston Par ish
“In addition to homeowners and auto insurance, we
also offer complete insurance
coverage for everything from
builder’s risk insurance to
vacation travel insurance, to
boats, camps, ATVs and more,”
Davis said.
“We care about people’s
individual needs and want to
give them the necessary information for making wise decisions regarding their insurances. Whether it’s clients or those
just in search of information,
our doors are open, and we look
forward to visits from anyone
who would like to stop by either
of our hometown offices.”
In 2015, Integrity added
a second business location in
Albany which allows them
to make their services more
convenient for the residents
of Albany and other people in
the eastern part of Livingston
Parish.
Both offices offer full lines
of coverage for both personal
and commercial customers
Get an Insurance Checkup
from more than 30 different
providers with whom they partner. Integrity offers discounts
for packaging home and auto
insurance through their agency with discounts of 10-15%
off premiums when purchased
together.
During 2016, Integrity
Insurance continues to successfully expand their business and
to serve the people of Livingston Parish.
Call for an appointment to
get an insurance checkup at no
cost or obligation.
Details: Integrity Insurance,
20185 Iowa St., Livingston,
225.686.1217, or 29887
South Montpelier Ave., Albany,
225.567.5700. Website: www.
integrityins.org and
Facebook: Integrity Insurance.
COVER Story
Warm weather and
swimming go hand in hand
Swim with a Buddy
Secure it!
Swimming is a great recreational sport that can be enjoyed by people of all
ages. But it’s important to know how to be safe while you’re in the water. Integrity
Insurance advises you to follow the American Red Cross swimming safety tips at the
pool, beach or river:
• Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone.
• Never leave a young child unattended near water.
• Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear U.S. Coast
Guard-approved life jackets around water.
• If a child goes missing, check the water first. Seconds count in preventing death
or disability.
• Make sure everyone in your family learns to swim.
• If you have a pool, secure it with appropriate barriers. Keep life preservers or
pool noodles nearby in case someone begins to struggle.
• Protect your skin. Limit the amount of direct sunlight you receive between
10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. and wear sunscreen with a protection factor of at least 15.
Giving back to the children of Livingston Parish
Integrity Insurance staged a successful fundraiser in 2015 for the Mighty Moms Organization
that helps feed hungry children in Livingston Parish. Integrity’s owner, Sarah Louise Quezada Davis
and her staff put together an event called “Fill A
Tummy 5K” that will now become an annual event
in the fall to help provide food for the less fortunate
children in this parish. They also earned an additional $5,000 for Mighty Moms from the SAFECO
Make More Happen Award Program.
The Integrity Award
They also started a student scholarship program and awarded scholarships to a
graduating senior from every high school in Livingston Parish, giving out $3,000.
According to Davis, “Integrity wants to continue to look for ways to make a difference for our young people. We have been blessed, and it is just how we operate our
business. Giving back is simply the right thing to do.”
2016 Winners
Allie Dorsey
Springfield High
Holly Garland
Maurepas High
Other recipients
not pictures are:
Keri Disedare,
Albany High and
Kayla Lewis, French
Settlement
2016 Runner Ups
Karen Mix - Doyle High
Brailie Gautreau - Maurepas High
Jacqueline Cooper - Maurepas High
Matt Arnett - Holden High
Connor Long - Walker High
Kelsie Whittington - French Settlement High
Mary Scardina - French Settlement High
Logan Mayers
Walker High
Sydney McCreary
Doyle High School
Michael Neal Starkey ll
Holden High
BUSINESS Profile
Glam Boutique
dresses
women
of all sizes in
fashion
By Kellee Hennessy Dickerson
A
few months ago, Erica
Whiddon opened a full
scale ladies boutique,
Glam Boutique, in the Broadway
Place Shopping Center. No stranger
to the business world, Whiddon
opened First Choice Mortgage in
Denham Springs in 2005.
She chose the site for her boutique based on a previous retail
spot that was already built-out with
shelves, fixtures and counter space
(and even had a similar name).
“It was an easy move-in, and
it’s a convenient location next to a
nail salon and some really popular
restaurants and fast food eateries,”
Whiddon explained.
Whiddon opened with a full
inventory of dresses, jeans, tops,
rompers, shorts, tanks, shirts, pants,
purses, jewelry, accessories, and tons
of shoes to die for! The store carries
small to plus sizes.
“My plus line makes up about 30
percent of my store,” Whiddon said.
“But some of my smaller sizes offer
a generous cut, so you can’t always
look just at the size; you have to
try it on. Customers are loving the
fashionable new plus shorts, and our
plus size jeans in many colors.“
Some of her most popular clothing items are staples like kimonos
and Pikos tops. “We have so many
varieties in florals, prints and a large
solid color variety to choose from,”
she added.
“I am not so much into name
brands, but I look for style and for
quality, and my price points range
from about $30 to $60 on average.
We also offer free shipping on most
items that we have in stock.” Whiddon said.
“Opening a new business is always challenging and demanding, but I love this community,
I have great customers and a great sales team
and I look forward to bringing in new items
and new styles that look great on all ages, and
that makes my customers happy.”
Erica Whiddon, owner of Glam Boutique
Some of the trendy items at Glam
Boutique are the popular “bracelet
bars” which are a set of stackable
bracelets made up of natural stones.
“The ones we have are a little more
expensive, but I do have a line coming in for LSU colors that is very
affordable.” Whiddon explained.
They also carry the longer necklaces with the natural gemstones that
are great ways to dress up an outfit
and popular with folks of all ages.
“Anyone who wants to dress stylish
and fun and the young at heart all
shop with us,” Whiddon said.
Other popular items at Glam
Boutique are the “S’well Bottles”
that come in a variety of colors
and patterns. They are beautifully
crafted stainless steel water bottles
which keep drinks cold for 24
hours and hot for 12, while giving
back to those in need.
“Opening a new business is
always challenging and demanding,
but I love this community, I have
great customers and a great sales
team and I look forward to bringing in new items and new styles
that look great on all ages, and that
makes my customers happy,” she
added.
There are four employees on staff
at Glam Boutique who are happy to
help customers with choices or let
them browse on their own. Customers
can also shop selected merchandise
and see new arrivals on Glam Boutique’s Facebook page.
Details: Glam Boutique, 7755
Magnolia Beach Road, Suite J, in the
Broadway Place Shopping Center
at Lockhart Crossing in Denham
Springs; 225.304.6441. Like them on
Facebook: www.facebook.com/glamboutiqueds. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 11-7
p.m.; Sat. 10-6.; and Sun. 1-5 p.m.
$20 off $50 in purchases
with this coupon
BUSINESS Spotlight
The new showroom at Southern Pipe & Supply nets
from $30,000 to $40,000 monthly. The showroom
features tubs, sinks and other plumbing fixtures.
Southern Pipe & Supply’s new showroom on
Hatchell Lane increases visibility and sales
By Christine Morgan Arceneaux
outhern Pipe & Supply, a popular
plumbing wholesaler in Livingston
Parish, is settling into its new home,
a 24,000-sqaure-foot building. The Livingston
Parish branch, one of 110 stores owned and
S
operated by the company, relocated to 101 Hatchell
Lane, in the former Dodge City Feed Store, in February. Prior to its move, the business was located
on Rushing Road in Denham Springs.
“Southern Pipe & Supply has become a house-
hold name for both residential and commercial
customers,” branch manager Duane Debetaz stated.
“We are 100 percent devoted to plumbing merchandise in the residential and commercial fields.”
The business caters to plumbing contractors,
building contractors and plumbers, as well as serving homeowners. Southern Pipe offers everything
that is needed “from below the earth to the top of the
roof,” said Debetaz.
The company spent seven months renovating the
former Dodge City Feed Store, a building located
in a high-traffic area just off Florida Boulevard.
Their new showroom nets an additional $30,000 to
$40,000 per month, according to Debetaz.
Southern Pipe employs 14 people, many of whom
are licensed plumbers who are qualified to answer
customer’s questions and, Debataz said, do so honestly.
Their main employees are trained to treat customers with respect and professionalism. Mamie
Lafleur of Lafleur’s Plumbing said the service she
receives from Southern Pipe & Supply is top notch.
“They’re like family,” Lafleur said. “They go out
of their way to help. Employees of Southern Pipe &
Supply have even assisted me on a Saturday or after
hours, times they are generally closed.”
“They are easy to work with,” she added, “and
are extremely straightforward and honest.”
As the industry changes, Southern Pipe & Supply
adapts as well, offering its customers the most
advanced plumbing supplies available in today’s
market, Debetaz said.
According to its website, “Southern Pipe & Sup-
BUSINESS Spotlight
Brandon Comeaux, a driver with Southern Pipe &
Supply, ties down plumbing supplies before heading
to deliver them to Baton Rouge. Left: These aren’t
your grandma’s toilets.Toilets’ design and technology
continue to change and improve, and Southern Pipe
& Supply has many advanced styles to choose from.
Bottom: Grandma’s tub has also been redesigned and
this modern version of the antique claw-foot tub is
much in demand.
distribution center with
a multi-million dollar
inventory that supports
its branches.
Their experts will
spend all the time you
need to make sure you
get the perfect premium
cabinetry, countertops,
appliances, showers,
tubs, faucets and sinks.
Whether you are a contractor working on a big
building project or a homeowner planning your
dream kitchen, Southern Pipe can show you
what it’s like to experience personal customer
service.
Details: Southern Pipe & Supply, 101
Hatchell Lane, Denham Springs, LA 70726;
225-664-9650. Website: southernpipe.com;
email [email protected].
ply serves both trade professionals and homeowners
with the very best of brand name plumbing, heating,
air-conditioning, industrial, mechanical, and waterworks supplies.”
They can help with everything from large commercial projects to residential kitchens and baths.
They also do some plumbing work for the City of
Denham Springs.
The company is headquartered in Meridian,
Miss., and was founded in 1901 by Louis Davidson,
a 20-year-old Russian immigrant.
“We’re now on our fourth generation of family
ownership, still building our business on a firm
foundation of integrity, commitment and trust,” their
website states. “Southern Pipe has grown tremendously and is now one of the largest privately held,
independent distributors of brand name plumbing,
heating, air-conditioning (HVAC), industrial, mechanical, and water works materials in the Southeast, with over 90 locations in Mississippi, Alabama,
Louisiana, Georgia, Arkansas, Florida and Tennessee. We’re big enough to provide a wide selection
and competitive prices, but small enough to be
flexible and respond quickly to customer needs.”
Today, the company operates over 90 locations in
Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia, Arkansas, Florida and Tennessee, including a central
WEBSITE of
the MONTH
Department of Homeland Security Active Shooter Preparedness
https://www.dhs.gov/active-shooter-preparedness?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
I
t is a sad and sobering fact
that we have to acknowledge
the existing risk of someone,
whether a terrorist, disgruntled employee or mentally unstable person
becoming a shooter in public areas,
schools, government offices, private
businesses and even churches in our
community.
Active shooter incidents, in
many cases, have no pattern or
method to the selection of victims,
which results in an unpredictable
and evolving situation. In the midst
of the chaos, anyone can play an integral role in mitigating the impacts
of an active shooter incident if they
know what to do.
These situations are, by their very
nature, unpredictable and evolve
quickly. The goal of the Department
of Homeland Security (DHS) is to
ensure awareness of actions that can
be taken before, during, and after an
Livingston
Parish Office
of Homeland
Security and
Emergency
Preparedness
www.lpoep.org
incident.
The DHS provides a variety of
no-cost resources to the public and
private sector to enhance preparedness and response to an active
shooter incident. These FREE
courses, materials, workshops and
online training can better prepare
you to deal with an active shooter
situation and to raise awareness of
behaviors that represent pre-inci-
dent indicators and characteristics of
active shooters.
Among the materials are a security assessment guide for schools
and houses of worship, and well as
materials for businesses to help identify potential workplace violence
and resources for law enforcement
and trainers, and more.
Take a few minutes to checkout
this extensive website and all it
offers to help you be prepared.
Hazardous conditions and
situations exist in all communities, and Livingston Parish is no
exception. They range from such
natural hazards as hurricanes and
flooding, to man-made hazards
such as chemical spills and nuclear accidents, to the ultimate threat
of a terrorist event.
The Livingston Parish Office
of Homeland Security and
Emergency Preparedness has
the responsibility of identifying
potential hazards and preparing,
mitigating, responding and recovering from events resulting from
these hazards.
Quick Links on the OEP
homepage are easily accessible
go-to sources for information.
Just click on the icons for weather
warnings, river stages, road closures, and emergency preparedness information resources.
An announcement section
provides up-to-date information
during emergency or cautionary
periods of time.
Also the homepage, select
“Links” from the menu to bring
up the links you need for State
Emergency Sites (evacuation
routes, Red Cross, DOTD road
closures, etc.); Weather Advisories (National Hurricane Center,
weather service, etc.); Sheriff’s
Office; local fire departments;
and parish offices.
n
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by Rice Sutton
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th
a Smile”
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ALL THAT Glitters
STUART SALASSI
You can design your own custom jewelry
F
or many,
jewelry is
an impulse
buy, sparked by
certain timing and
emotions. When one
is “in the moment,”
it’s difficult to pass
up a glowing design
of precious metal
accentuated by stunning gems. However, for some, the moment is even
more meaningful and eventful by engaging in the
process of designing and building their own jewelry.
Many people fail to understand the many
upsides of the design and build process. There are
many preconditioned ideas of design that shy us
away from the thought of building jewelry. Price
and timing top the concerns, with convenience
playing a role as well.
With today’s high tech programing, the leading
jewelry manufactures can produce more product
a lot faster, which can actually lower costs due to
reduced time on design and production.
Companies like Stuller (stuller.com) have thousands of designs on file and can pour molds several
times a week. Stuller is the largest jewelry manufacturing company in the USA and their home office
and plant is located in Lafayette, Louisiana. Stuller
also has its own custom studio. Their production
building is over a third of a mile long!
They can manufacture as necessary which
allows them not to have to stock as much, which
reduces overhead for them and keeps prices down
as well. Many times people browse through their
online designs and find a match of what they had in
mind, or close to it.
This is a great system because the preliminary
design and production costs are absorbed on the
manufacturer’s side allowing consumers to build
and design at a much lower cost.
It’s a super easy process and everything including a huge selection of gemstones is readily available. The finished product can be produced in two
to five days in most cases. The benefits of building
and designing jewelry generally are that the process
becomes a lot more personal, and the resulting end
product is even that more special to both the builder
and recipient of the jewelry.
Salassi Jewelry can provide design, plating,
redesigning or building almost any type of jewelry.
They can start from scratch, or anywhere in the
process of designing or building, to help customers
produce just about anything they desire. Customers
are invited to bring their old jewelry and/or an idea
for them to help produce a custom piece. Trades and
scrap jewelry will be considered.
Information was provided by Stuart Salassi of
Salassi Jewelry & Fine Gifts, 111 N. Range Ave.,
Denham Springs, La 70726; 225-271- 8641; email
any questions to salassijewelry@gmail. com.
This and all other columns and articles,
including archives of past issues, are available
online at livingstonbusiness.com.
SPIRITUAL Outlook
KEITH ZACHARY
Canaanite woman models path to blessings
I
n the Gospel of Matthew, chapter fifteen,
verses 21 to 28, readers are given an account of
a certain Canaanite woman
who approached Jesus
requesting that he heal her
daughter. The fact that she
was Canaanite presented
an issue, and being female
amplified the complexity of
the situation.
In the cultural practices of
that day, Jews had no dealings with Gentiles, and Jewish
men did not talk to strange women in public, especially
Gentile women. However there was one other issue at
hand. Jesus had come to minister primarily to the Jews;
only after his resurrection would his ministry to the
Gentiles begin to flourish.
So, the text reveals racial, cultural, and religious diversity deeply entrenched in the society Jesus navigated
during in his earthly ministry. For some, the same issues
are sources of entrenched division today. Jesus recognized the woman for possessing certain traits necessary
to cross barriers to blessings.
One thing that will cause individuals to cross the
barriers to blessings is need. The woman in this case had
a child in great need and she knew only Jesus could help
her. Therefore, no longer caring about racial or cultural
rules, she brought her need to Christ.
Today Jesus is still the only one who can deal with
the deep needs of our world. He is the only one who
can forgive sin and grant the holiness required to have a
relationship with God. People who begin to personally
sense the greatness of this need will no longer worry
about what others think, they will cross all barriers to
come to Christ.
The second thing we would see in the woman who
came to Jesus was her faith. People of faith will let go
of hatred and find themselves loving individuals with
whom they once had differences. The woman admired
and respected Jesus. There was no room in her heart for
racial prejudice. She conversed with Christ even while
others of his group asked Jesus to send her away. Her
faith remained strong enough to maintain fellowship
where faith was respected.
Can your faith pass the fellowship test?
Third we would see in this woman a persistence that
Jesus acknowledged as “great faith.” I find this interesting because Jesus told his disciples that little faith could
move mountains. Maybe only “great faith” can cross
barriers, remain persistent, and claim blessings that will
bring peace to our troubled divided world.
Like the woman of the text we must be certain that
confidence in Christ can bring the healing we so desperately need in our lives and our nation. We must learn
to live with a heart of love for all and refuse to accept
the idea that people who are unlike us are not worthy of
our compassion or company. It is time for true believers
to exercise great faith -,the kind that crosses barriers,
remains steadfast, and obtains the needed blessings of
God.
225-664-0858.
Keith A. Zachary, is pastor of New Covenant Church, 215 Florida Ave., Denham
Springs. You may contact Rev. Zachary at
TREAT
PROBLEM VEINS
WITHOUT SURGERY!
Varicose and spider veins can be unsightly.
In the past, surgery was the only treatment.
Today there are non-surgical options like
Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) and
Sclerotherapy to treat problem veins.
Who may benefit from EVLT
or Sclerotherapy?
Men or women who may be experiencing
the following symptoms in their legs:
• Aching pain
• Burning or tingling sensations
• Cramping
• Heaviness
• Swelling
• Tiredness
• Throbbing pain
• Tenderness around veins.
Benefits
• No surgery
• No general anesthesia
• Performed in-office in about 1 hour
• Minimal to no pain or scarring
• Return to work/activities in 24 hours
• Successfully improves symptoms
and leg appearance
Call North Oaks Ultrasound at (225) 686-4826
to request a venous ultrasound
and consult with a vein specialist.
17199 Spring Ranch Road (I-12 @ Satsuma)
Livingston, LA • www.northoaks.org/legs
MONEY Matters
SCOTT LANDRY
How can you declare your financial independence?
W
e observed
the 4th
of July with sparklers, picnics and parades. And living in
a country that offers
so much freedom,
we always have a lot
to celebrate. But on
a more personal level, you may still be working
toward another type of independence – financial
independence. What can you do to speed your
progress toward this goal?
Here are some ideas to think about:
• Free yourself from excessive fear. As an
investor, it’s not hard to find something to fear.
Oil prices, interest rates, political squabbles,
even natural disasters – at any given time, each
of these factors (and many more) might be
blamed for volatility in the financial markets. In
response, many people take a “time out” from
investing. Don’t let fear hold you back. It takes
discipline and some mental toughness to stay
invested in all economic environments, but if
you’re constantly jumping in and out of the market, you’re almost guaranteed to miss out on the
kind of continuity and opportunities you need to
move toward your financial freedom.
• Liberate your investments’ growth potential.
Many investors avoid investing too aggressively, wishing to lower their risk level. And that’s
certainly not a bad idea. On the other hand, you
can easily slip into investing too “safely” by
keeping the bulk of your portfolio in investments
that protect your principal but offer so little in
the way of return that they may not even keep up
with inflation. So, try to always maintain a reasonable percentage of growth-oriented vehicles
in your portfolio. The exact amount may depend
on your age and tolerance for risk, but at virtually
every stage of your life, you need some growth
potential.
• Avoid the tyranny of debt. It’s not easy to
stay out of debt. But carrying a heavy debt load is
truly a burden – you’re not only concerned about
making the payments, but you’re also depriving
yourself of dollars that could be used to invest
for your future. Try to do everything you can
to live within your means and avoid racking up
more debt than is necessary. And when you do
whittle down your debts, put that “found” money
to work. The more you put in your investment
portfolio, the more opportunities you have to
reach your objectives.
• Free your thinking about the future. Here’s
another roadblock on your journey toward financial independence: short-term thinking. Instead
of seeking quick gains (which are notoriously
hard to achieve), strive for steady growth. Instead
of reacting to the news of the day by making impulsive moves, chart a long-term strategy that’s
appropriate for your needs, and stick to it. Instead
of focusing on the losses you might see on one
month’s investment statement, look back over
the progress you’ve made over the last five or 10
years. In short, worry less about today – and plan
for tomorrow.
It will take a lot of time, effort and patience to
ultimately achieve your own Financial Independence Day. But once you do, you’ll have reason to
rejoice – and you won’t even need the fireworks!
For information on investment strategies at
every age, contact Scott Landry, an investment
representative and branch manager administrator with Edward Jones. 225-664-9798 or toll-free
at 800-256-6664; 179 Del Orleans, Denham
Springs, LA 70726. www.edwardjones.com.
online at our website, livingstonbusiness.com.
UNEARTH your ROOTS
CLARK FORREST
Clerk of Court Remote Access aids genealogy research
Denham Springs. Ms. Erin, ebbcupcake19@aol.
com, would like a copy. If you have a picture,
please contact her.
Reprinting the Livingston Parish
History Book
The third proof copy is being reviewed and
ELHA treasurer David Wall is compiling a list
of prospective purchasers. If you want a copy,
please email him at [email protected] or complete the attached order form and send money to
assure that you’ll have a copy.
Parish history book and next meeting
Orders are still being accepted for the reprinting of the big history book of Livingston
Parish. The price is $70 if picked up or $80 if
mailed. To reserve a copy, email David Wall at
[email protected] .
We look forward to seeing you in Livingston
at the Main Library on Thur., July 21, 6 p.m.
Our guest will be Dr. Sarah Hyde speaking on
the History of Education in the Florida Parishes.
H
on. Tom
Sullivan and
his assistant,
Jason Harris, gave a
relaxed, informative and
humorous presentation
at our last meeting. They
gave updates on the Clerk
of Court’s Office and
discussed new programs, one of which is the Louisiana Clerk of Courts Remote Access Authority.
It’s a FREE site at http://www.laclerksportal.org/
. If you have any questions or problem setting up
your account, just email Jason at jason.harris@
livclerk.org . He will let us know when Livingston
Parish marriage records are added to the site.
The rest of the story on
Dr. Stephen Lennox Powlett:
While our Livingston Parish history book contains three brief references to Dr. Powlett, MD,
1833, England – 1914, our historian/friend, Jim
Perrin has provided the “Rest of the Story” on
him in an article in the Hammond Daily Star. An
excerpt: “In April 1892, Dr. Powlett was elected
coroner of Livingston Parish. While practicing
general medicine and surgery, Dr. Powlett also
operated a pharmacy. Usually physicians in small
towns were well-respected and often beloved, but
Dr. Powlett seems not to have reached that level
of admiration in Springfield for reasons that have
not been documented. After some previous problems, a gang of men went to Powlett’s drug store
in Springfield in the fall of 1894 and destroyed
the store windows and display cases. The outlaws
posted a note on the door threatening to kill Dr.
Powlett if he did not leave the community.”
Dr. Powlett moved, eventually to Hammond,
where he was elected mayor.” What a turnaround! (See Perrin’s article in the Hammond
Daily Star archives, May 28, 2016.)
Dr. Powlett’s wife Sophie Estelle Walker
was born in Springfield in 1858. Both are buried in the Greenlawn Cemetery in Hammond.
Query: Need Picture of
the Durant House
The Durant House was located south of
This column about Livingston Parish genealogy presents excerpts from the monthly
newsletter of the Edward Livingston Historical
Association (ELHA), courtesy of the association
and the newsletter editor, Clark Forrest, [email protected]. Annual membership dues are
$10 person/$15 family. Members receive ELHA’s
quarterly printed ELHAgram and the monthly
e-newsletter.
online at our website, livingstonbusiness.com.
PICTURE Perfect
THERESA MULLINS-LOW
Successful nature photography takes planning
I
t’s summer, and
our landscapes
are beautiful
and amazingly green!
I love that about our
Louisiana! Photographers can enjoy getting
their image by going
either early morning
and staying out until
10:00 am, or from about 4:00 pm into the late evening. This is a photographer’s best time to photograph
under any conditions, and this is when our weather is
the best in the summer. The early morning light gives
a soft golden color while nighttime gets into the blue
light. Midday brings excellent black and white. Look
for the light. The dew could be your best friend.
I find myself usually visiting a zoo sometime
during the summer. In zoos, there are usually many
obstacles to work around for good photographs.
There is tricky lighting, the foliage, the glass cage,
or the cage bars that all may obstruct your view. Just
the mere fact that animals are always moving is an
enormous challenge; or, not moving and in the wrong
place. But the action of the animals is what makes zoo
photography so fun and interesting.
Either a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera with a long zoom lens or a point and shoot with
a 10 - 12x zoom allows you to take those great zoo
photographs.
A monopod is preferred at the zoo because of the
crowds. A tripod or monopod can be very useful for
stability and will allow for sharper images in low
light conditions. If no tripod or monopod, open your
aperture near f/4 and increase your ISO and be sure
you have a higher shutter speed to stop the action.
When shooting nature photography, focus on the
face of the animal. The eyes should be the focal point.
Capturing the intimacy of the animal and the details
in the face will get viewers’ attention. The up-close
and personal shots reveal facts and features of the
animal that one doesn’t usually see. This will also
eliminate distracting backgrounds.
Remember to get down low when necessary so
that you will be on the same level as the animal but
keep your distance using that zoom lens.
To eliminate those cage bars, get close to the bars,
use the largest possible aperture f5.6 or f/4 etc. on
your camera, or look for a larger opening in the bars.
If you are shooting a point and shoot, try using the
portrait mode which uses a wider aperture. After all,
what you are actually trying to capture is a portrait of
the animal that shows emotion.
Theresa Mullins Low is a member of the Louisiana Photographic Society. Meetings are open to the
public and are held on the third Thursday of each
month. Their next meeting is July 21 at 7:00 p.m. at
the Goodwood Library, 1st floor conference room,
Baton Rouge. The guest speaker will be Zack Smith,
www.zacksmith.com, who is an award-winning photographer from New Orleans. His presentation will
be Five Types of Portraits from sunlight to strobe. See
updates at www.laphotosociety.com. Visit Theresa
Mullins Low’s website at www.theresamullinslow.
zenfolio.com.
This and all other columns and articles, including archives of past issues, are available online at:
livingstonbusiness.com.
GET IT Growing
KENNY SHARPE
Blueberries are easy to grow and good for you
L
ocal blueberries are in season through
June and can last into
the first two weeks in
July. They make great
snacks, are good in
pancakes, oatmeal and
cereal, and they make tasty desserts.
I eat them because I like blueberries but I am also
glad to know that they are full of antioxidants, increase
our immunity and slow the aging process. They are
also reported to increase vision and improve memory all the things a baby boomer would like.
Blueberries are easy to grow. They have no major
pests and love our acid soils. The biggest concern is
planting them up on a well-drained row to keep them
out of the water. It would be easy to incorporate a few
plants in your yard and have them blend into your landscape.
I would space blueberry plants out at least 6 feet
apart. You will need at least 2 varieties to get good
cross pollination and you can extend your harvest
season with good variety selection. Recommended
varieties include Tifblue, Brightwell, Premier, Climax
and Powderblue.
Premier and Climax both get ripe in late May. Climax is the leading variety used as a pollinator and will
produce medium sized dark blue fruit, and about 80%
of the fruit get ripe at one time. Premier has large, high
quality berries that have good storage qualities.
Brightwell is ready to harvest in early June with
large, firm fruit. Tifblue is the most widely grown
variety. The berries are high quality and large, ready to
harvest in mid-June and the bushes will stay medium
in size and require less pruning.
If you want to extend your season into late June,
plant Powderblue. It is a good pollinator for Tifblue
and also produces high quality large fruit.
I see a lot of blueberry bushes that through years of
neglect have turned into blueberry trees. If you have
been harvesting blueberries from the top of a ladder, it
is definitely time to prune. You should prune blueberries when you need height reduction or they have
become unproductive and need rejuvenation.
The best time to prune blueberries is right after
your fruit harvest in late June or early July. All of the
fruit that will be produced next year will be produced
on this year’s growth, so you do not want to just shear
the tops.
The best way to prune blueberries is to take out
your largest and oldest canes. Cut those canes out
right at ground level. I would take the number of canes
down to about 10 canes per plant. Remove those canes
that are larger than one inch in diameter and you will
remove a lot of height. Let the new smaller canes grow
and you will keep the plant productive and vigorous.
Blackberries can be another good addition. If you
do not mind snakes and chiggers, you can harvest all
the blackberries that you want along highway ditches
and fences. Most of us prefer a less hostile environment to work and play, especially in the summer.
You can even avoid thorns by planting thornless
varieties such as Arapaho and Ouachita. Arapaho
produces medium sized fruit and is the earliest
ripening of the thornless varieties. Ouachita has
an erect plant with large fruit that has good storage
and handling qualities and a 5 week production
period.
Thorned varieties to consider include Cheyenne
and Shawnee. Cheyenne has large sweet fruit with
a slight raspberry taste. Shawnee is a week later
than Cheyenne and has softer berries that need to
be eaten fresh but has an extended harvest season
of several weeks.
Blackberries produce new canes from the
ground, primocanes, in the spring and summer.
The next year, those new canes will flower and
produce fruit and then die. They are called floricanes and will be replaced by new primocanes.
Once floricanes die they should be pruned out at
the end of the harvest which will be around July.
For more information on these or related topics contact Kenny Sharpe, LSU AgCenter County
Agent, at 225-686-3020 or visit the website at
www.lsuagcenter.com/livingston.
TRAVEL Time
K ATHY PICKERELL
“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” --anonymous
Tips to make your traveling more enjoyable
A
re you
planning to
travel this summer?
Whether it’s a quick
trip to the beach or a
longer, more detailed,
involved vacation, there are several things you
should consider.
Proper Documentation - If you’re traveling to
ANYWHERE that is not a U.S. state or territory, and
you are flying, you will need a passport, and in most
cases, your passport cannot expire within six months
of your travel dates. Make two copies of it and leave
one at home where someone can access it, and take
one with you and store it in a different place than your
original passport.
Money - Defensively guard your money. Nothing
can ruin a vacation like pickpockets.
Take lots of small bills. They’re easier to break
and are good for tips. Avoid $100 bills and old, worn
bills. Avoid Travelers Checks since they are becoming more of a thing of the past.
If you’re traveling to a foreign country, it’s a good
idea to get their currency from your bank ahead of
time. Exchange fees in other countries can be steep.
A good ATM card is important.
Make sure that you contact your credit card
company before leaving home to alert them of your
travel plans so they don’t block your card for unusual
out-of-town, -state or -country activity.
Leave valuables at home, particularly jewelry.
Health - As in most places, the major health risk
is caused by eating contaminated fruits and vegetables or drinking contaminated water. It’s advisable
to drink bottled water and eat only cooked fruits and
vegetables, or ones that you can peel.
If you’re traveling to an exotic destination, ask a
health care professional what vaccines are advisable.
Bring your medications in properly labeled
bottles.
Voltage - If the country you are visiting has a
different electric currency than 110, you’ll need
a converter. Those are available in stores such as
Walmart and Target.
Packing - Take half the clothes you think you’ll
need and twice the money!
Pack light! Unless you’re attending New York
Fashion Week, you won’t need 50 pounds of heels,
make-up and designer clothes. It’s advisable to bring
a light jacket and layer clothing. Ladies, a large scarf
can serve as a blanket on a plane, an accessory to
dress up an outfit, or a cover for shoulders or knees
when going into temples or holy sites.
Take a small portable first aid kit with you and include items like band-aids, antibiotic cream, antacids
and pain relievers because, in some places, pharmacies aren’t as readily accessible.
Pack hand sanitizer and wipes. If you’re flying,
wipe your tray table, your arm rests and your seat
belt.
Take your documents and any trip insurance
information, your camera, batteries, chargers, guide
books, snacks, an umbrella or rain jacket, and if
going someplace sunny, sunscreen and a hat.
Remember that any liquid carry-on items must be
no more than 3 ounces, and must be in a plastic bag.
If you are flying, double check your seat assignments and check in online for your flight 24
hours prior to travel. Print your boarding passes, if
possible.
Check with the air carrier to see what its baggage
policy is, their weight limit and cost for bags. If
you’re going to lock your bags, the locks need to be
Travel Time, p47
PERSONAL Wellness
CHERYL JEANE
New physical therapy laws!
A
s of
June
6,
direct access to
physical therapy was signed
into law by Gov.
John Bel Edwards. Previously, to receive
physical therapy services, a patient
would have to get a referral from a doctor, podiatrist, or a chiropractor. Under
the new law, you can come directly to
physical therapy without any specific
referral. However, some insurances
still require a referral, so, ask when you
schedule your evaluation.
To protect the public, a physical ther-
apist must possess a doctorate degree
in physical therapy or have five years
of licensed clinical practice in order to
qualify for the new law.
So, when would you want to go to
a physical therapist? Are you having
pain in your neck when turning it as
you are driving, or have you noticed
it has been more difficult to reach for
something on the ground, or back seat?
Numbness/tingling in your hands, down
your arms? Pain in your feet, difficulty
walking in the mornings? Shin splints?
Headaches? Pain in your back or neck?
A physical therapist can help with
all of those types of problems. In fact,
physical therapists can treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction in the
arms, legs, and spine.
Physical therapy still works in
conjunction with physicians, so if no
measurable or functional improvement
is made in 30 days, or a patient initially
shows up with “red flags” (subjective
and objective findings suggesting something acute medically is going on), the
therapist will refer you to an appropriate
healthcare provider.
Dr. Cheryl Jeane is a physical therapist with 21 years of experience and
treats patients at Triton Health Care on
Florida Blvd. in Denham Springs.
This and all other columns and
articles, including archives of past
issues, are available online at livingstonbusiness.com.
Travel Time, p46
TSA approved.
For long flights, pack a small pillow,
headphones and reading material, and
don’t forget to stay hydrated. Compression socks work wonders to help reduce
swelling in ankles and legs.
Be at the airport at least 2 hours prior to your flight, and if you are traveling
over a holiday or flying internationally,
give yourself an additional hour.
Miscellaneous - Sign up for frequent flyer, hotel, car rental, and any
other reward program there is. Those
points and miles add up!
When renting a vehicle, take
pictures of the car and document any
scratches or dents prior to driving it
off the lot. Read the fine print in rental
agreements and take extra care to find
out what type of insurance is best.
Some credit cards may cover rental
vehicles, as well as might your own car
insurance company.
Watch your cell phone usage if
traveling internationally. There are
ways to call for free as long as you have
Wi-Fi, but do your homework before
leaving home. Contact your carrier for
your best options for staying in touch
and ask for advice on how to use your
phone to avoid expensive surprises on
your next bill.
Last, but not least, travel smart,
and when in doubt, call your travel
consultant.
Kathy Rainey Pickerell is the owner
of World Travels, 225-279-0135, has
been a travel consultant for 21 years,
and is a native of Denham Springs.
Besides being an avid traveler who has
been to 6 continents, 46 states and 59
countries, she’s a mother and grandmother, a voracious reader, scuba
diver, gardener, cook, and she keeps
a bucket list for the places she has yet
to see.
This and all other columns and articles, including archives of past issues
of The Journal, are available online at
BUSINESS Skills
LINDA CALLENDER
Leadership tips for tough times in business
T
he phrase “changing times”
conjures up a wide assortment
of meanings in today’s world.
Whether you are facing tight cash issues,
adverse government regulations, loss of a
key staff member or losing a top client, you
need to take a step back and look at what
can be done to overcome issues like these.
To help you lead during tough times, we have compiled four leadership tips to help you focus on the key issues that are important to
successful managers.
Leadership Tip #1: Learn how to navigate - Anyone can maintain course in calm waters; however, the biggest and most noticeable
difference is how a leader performs during tough times as opposed
to calm times. Take a step back and develop a vision by seeing what
could be done to change things or what could be looming around the
corner. This will help you to be better prepared should something bad
happen.
Leadership Tip #2: Avoid being just a manager - The difference
between leaders and managers is that leaders are able to motivate
everyone in their organization whereas managers tend to manage the
“status quo” or the current process. Should you find that the “status
quo” is the norm in your organization, don’t just follow along. We
suggest looking into some type of leadership course, buying books or
visiting the local library for books on leadership. It would also be to
your advantage to see what other leaders are doing by joining network groups or industry associations.
Leadership Tip #3: Work on creating a positive change - If you
truly lead, you will, by default, cause positive changes in your
organization. And this change is important, because it breathes life
back into an organization. To help you create a positive change in
your organization, look for some high-profile leaders and professional coaches in your area or industry, and see what they are doing. To
help you get a new perspective on things, you should also consider a
subscription to business magazines, like Harvard Business Review,
Entrepreneur or SUCCESS Magazine.
Leadership Tip #4: Talk with your team regularly - Picture yourself on an airplane that is hitting a lot of turbulence. Wouldn’t you
want to know what is going on and how long it will last? Better yet,
what is the captain doing to find a smoother altitude? The same goes
for your employees when your business starts to hit tough times.
Summary: While you cannot predict all of the events that will
affect your business, you can employ the above four strategies to
navigate your way through tough times. Leaders who invest time in
communicating with their staff, reviewing alternate strategies and
staying close to key clients are implementing some of the best practices for leading in both good and bad times.
Summary: A written warning can be useful in getting an employee to
realize the severity of their behavior. It also can provide legal protection
from a wrongful termination lawsuit, should the situation escalate.
This and all other columns and articles, including archives
of all past issues, are available online at The Journal website,
COMPUTER Savvy
STEVE BERNARD
Dealing with information technology problems
S
everal years
ago, if a
company
had a major computer issue, it wasn’t a
big deal to be down
for a day or more.
Now, with more and
more of a company’s
daily workload requiring technology, when
your system is down, all that may be left for you
and your staff to do is paper filing, cleaning,
errands, etc. until the computer or your system is
back online.
Larger companies have IT (information
technology) staff to deal with a problem like this
immediately. But what about the smaller companies who don’t have IT departments or staff?
Questions that get asked frequently are, “What
am I going to do to fix the problem?” and “Should
I let everyone go home?” in anticipation that the
down time may be lengthy.
The two best suggestions that I can give for
such situations are to have a disaster plan in place
and to build a relationship with a local IT company. A disaster plan should include a contingency
plan to use in the event that something happens
when a computer or your entire system is down
and you are not able to perform your daily work,
whether for a few hours, a few days or longer.
Once you find an IT company you like, using
them consistently to provide services for you allows them to learn your system and how you use
it, and they can help you prepare your disaster
plan.
Now, how do you know when to call IT to
come? A couple of things that you can try yourself first:
1. Restart the computer. Over 90% of most
computers issues are solved simply by restarting.
2. If the problem only occurs in a particular
software program, call the software’s technical
support line.
3. Perform an anti-virus scan.
When you should call for help:
1. When it is a hardware issue (i.e., making a
noise, no lights, hardware errors on the screen,
etc.)
2. When there are data issues or if you need to
recover from a backup.
3. When similar issues are happening on more
than one computer.
4. When you don’t have the time or don’t want
to troubleshoot the issue yourself.
All computers and networks are different
because they are unique to the users. What may
solve an issue for one computer, may not fix the
same issue on another computer.
Outsourcing, or the strategic use of outside
resources to perform activities traditionally han-
dled by internal staff and resources, is a great
way to stay ahead of the technology curve.
Keeping up with technology required to run
your business is expensive and time consuming. Because professional IT providers work
with multiple clients and keep up-to-date
on industry best practices, they typically
know what is the right thing to do and what
is not. Moreover, they have the experience
and resources to get you back up and working
quickly.
Note: beware of a person who calls you
and says they are calling you from Windows
tech support and that your computer has
alerted them that it has a virus … and then
they ask you to pay a fee for them to fix the
problem. That is a common scam and another
reason to have a relationship with a trusted
local IT company to advise you.
All columns and articles including archives available at livingstonbusiness.com.
Financial Goals
JUDY FOREMAN
Take the stress out of building a house
I
nvesting in home ownership is the
single largest financial transaction
most of us will ever participate in.
Building your next home can be both
a challenging and rewarding experience. It can also be stressful and time
consuming. Below are several tips to
consider when preparing to build your
next home:
1) Finance = Schedule a meeting
with your lender early in the process and get pre-approved. Many
lenders can help with both your construction loan and your permanent mortgage. Your lender works for you and should serve
as a trusted advisor before, during and after your construction
project.
2) Locate = Remember to consider development costs such
as removing trees and stumps, running utilities and building up
your elevation when comparing land options that fit your budget.
Other factors to evaluate may include zoning, school districts,
building restrictions and whether or not the property is in a flood
zone.
3) Design = Many designers and architects have existing
house plans for sale and may offer to customize to those plans
for a fee. Custom house plans can be a rewarding way to influence the design of your next home. Be patient during this process
and always ask for feedback when designing your plans.
4) Build = Working with a turn-key builder, partnering
with a flat-fee contractor or subcontracting the project yourself
are three common methods for building a new home. Consider the
level of expertise and involvement required of you and do not hesitate to talk with several builders and contractors before making a
final decision.
Planning and preparation are critical to your success. Expect
the project to cost more and take longer than you originally estimated. Seeking advice early and often from others such as your
mortgage lender and your builder can be a great best-practice
throughout the process.
Judy Foreman is a Senior Vice President and head of mortgage lending at the Bank of Zachary. She can be reached at
(225) 654-2701.
BUT are you doing it right?
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