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F E AT U R E
S W A M P YAYA S
ANDREW LAMAR HOPKINS 2026 GREATER GOOD NORTHSHORE SWAMP YAYAS LUXURIOUS SANCTUARY
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CONTENTS J ULY-AU GU ST 2026
DEPARTMENTS
COVER ARTIST
6
HER WAY, HIS WAY: A CONVERSATION ACROSS TIME
PUB NOTE
16
INSIDE SCOOP
49
FLOURISHES
54
GENEROUS HEARTS Highlighting Philanthropy on the Northshore
59
PEEK Women in Business Brooke It Forward Habitat for Humanity
62
IN DEVELOPMENT Northshore Technical Community College Evolve Coffee + Matcha
65
EAT & DRINK
66
LAST LOOK
Andrew LaMar Hopkins
29
2026 G R E AT E R GOOD NORTHSHORE
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FEATURES 22
DESIGN Luxurious Sanctuary
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FEATURE Swamp Yayas Yarn Shop
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INSIDE NORTHSIDE is published bi-monthly (January, March, May, July, September, November) by Hyrizon Group 29092 Krentel Road, Lacombe, LA 70445 as a means of communication and information for St. Tammany and Tangipahoa Parishes, Louisiana. Bulk Postage paid at Mandeville, LA. Copyright ©2023 by Hyrizon Group. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written consent of publisher. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and artwork.
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE Didn’t it used to be called summer vacation?
I
ask because somewhere along the way, summer became less of a pause and more of a logistics sport. Across the country, summer now means baseball tournaments, swim meets, travel ball, camps, carpools, coolers, uniforms and parents managing schedules like air traffic controllers.
This Thursday-Sunday, our family will be in Baton Rouge for the Louisiana Swimming State Championships, where our 10-year-old is competing in eight events. In the middle of that, we will be shuffling our 12-year-old to GalaxyCon at the Convention Center in New Orleans. A good friend of mine schedules family beach trips around travel basketball tournaments in Florida. A colleague here at Hyrizon has four children, three of which play different sports on different teams (one is a toddler) and has to deploy an army of friends, family members and babysitters to get everyone in the right place at the right time. It is exhausting, of course. But it is also a reminder of how much of life is built around showing up. That same spirit is at the heart of this issue. Inside, you will find our Giving Guide, now part of our new Greater Good Northshore program. The idea behind it is simple: our community is full of people doing meaningful work, and more of us should know how to find them, support them and join them. Giving is often discussed in terms of money, and money absolutely matters. Nonprofits need resources to serve well and to plan well. But giving also looks like time, attention, expertise, encouragement, connections and the simple decision to care about something beyond the edge of our own calendar. Greater Good Northshore exists to help tell those stories more clearly and consistently. It is a way for us to use the platform we have built to connect generosity with real work, and to remind our readers that community is not an abstract idea. It is made, day by day, by people who decide to participate. Because whether we are in the stands, in a convention center, at a board meeting or at a food pantry, the work is the same. We show up. And when enough of us do, the whole community gets stronger.
Inside Northside Publisher
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INSIDE NORTHSIDE JULY-AUG UST | V O L. 42 , NO .4
PUBLISHER DESIREE FORSYTH
EDITORIAL
desiree@insidepub.com
MANAGING EDITOR
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ANDREW LAMAR HOPKINS
J U LY-AU G U ST | VO L . 41, N O. 4
2 02 6 G R E AT E R GOOD NORTHSHORE
DESIGN
LU X U R I O U S SA N CT UA R Y
F E AT U R E
S W A M P YAYA’S
ANDREW LAMAR HOPKINS 2026 GREATER GOOD NORTHSHORE
BUSINESS MANAGER
SWAMP YAYAS
JANE QUILLIN
LUXURIOUS SANCTUARY
PEM M I E SH E A S BY pemmie@insidepub.com
MARGARET RIVERA margaret@insidepub.com
J ULY-AUGUST 2026
SALES DIRECTOR
ARTIST
ANDREW LAMAR HOP KINS Page 10 I NS I DE NORT HS I DE
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
ON THE COVER
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VOLUM E 41, NO. 4
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SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2023 2
CONTACT
CINDY NICHOLS cnichols@hyrizon.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
PHONE 985-626-9684
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ADVERTISING SALES SALES@INSIDEPUB.COM
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CONTRIBUTORS
Our contributors give Inside Northside its voice, its personality and its feel. We are proud to highlight a few of them so that you can put a face with a name and get to know them.
MIMI GREENWO OD KNIGHT
C AY M A N C L E V E N G E R
Mimi blinked and her four kids were grown. She and her husband, David, are emptynesting it on a hobby farm in Folsom where she’s attempting to teach herself gardening, beekeeping, chicken wrangling, foraging, canning, and most recently herbalism. Mimi is blessed to have thousands of articles, essays, and Christian devotionals in national and regional books and magazine.
Cayman Clevenger is a New Orleans-based art broker, certified fine art appraiser, attorney and realtor. Born in Shreveport, Cayman grew up in the small town of Many, Louisiana, outside of Natchitoches. He earned a bachelor’s in history from Tulane University and a juris doctorate from Southern Methodist University’s Dedman School of Law in Dallas. His website is LouisianaArt.com.
EDITORAL CONTRIBUTORS Christine Beavers, Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West, Moeller Media & Photography, Miranda Moore, Northshore Community Foundation, Orleans Gallery, Akasha Rabut, Laura Steffan, and Visit the Northshore
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JULY-AUGUST 2026 9
COVER ARTIS T
Her Way, His Way:
A Conversation Across Time Andrew LaMar Hopkins
By Cayman Clevenger Photos by Akasha Rabut and Orleans Gallery
Two large cameras, a boom operator, producers, and a veritable army of lighting and videography professionals trailed Andrew Hopkins as he walked through St. Mark’s Square in Venice, Italy. He had just finished filming a scene in a gondola. His signature estate jewelry, red cape, and entourage attracted some curious onlookers, when a blonde woman stopped in her tracks. She studied Hopkins for a moment, then smiled. “I can’t believe it, Andrew,” she said.
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HER WAY, HIS WAY: A CONVERSATION ACROSS TIME ANDREW LAMAR HOPKINS
The world renowned curator Alison M. Gingeras had taken an impromptu sojourn to the Venice Biennale from Warsaw, Poland, where she serves as the Curator of the Museum of Modern Art. Just days before, she completed the digital curation of Hopkins’ latest show, Her Way, His Way, at the Orleans Gallery. It was her 4th time curating his work, including his first show at Venus over Manhattan and his seminal showing at the legendary Blum and Poe. Andrew Hopkins was in town, along with eight other artists from the American South, as part of a groundbreaking exhibition and accompanying documentary film. Then destiny stepped in, and in a sea of people, Hopkins found himself face to face with Gingeras, pausing production to speak with his longtime collaborator. Every great exhibition is, in some way, a conversation. Sometimes it is a conversation between an artist and an institution, or an idea, or a memory. In Her Way, His Way, which opened at Orleans Gallery on May 2 and remains on view through the end of July, it is one of those JULY-AUGUST 2026 11
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rare conversations between artists that spans generations. Curated by Alison M. Gingeras, the exhibition places original works by Clementine Hunter side by side with Andrew LaMar Hopkins’ painted interpretations of them, at once paying tribute to Hunter’s legacy and placing it in dialogue with Hopkins’ practice. Across decades, across vastly different circumstances and artistic styles, their works share a devotion to preserving black and Creole histories. It is difficult to overstate the significance of Clementine Hunter. Born in the 1880s into the harsh realities of a sharecropper life at Melrose Plantation in Natchitoches Parish, Hunter became one of the most important self-taught artists in American history. She painted not from imagination but from memory, documenting the lives around her with extraordinary honesty and beauty. Her paintings captured baptisms, cotton picking, weddings, funerals, church gatherings, and daily labor: not as historical records, but as lived experiences. Through her brush, ordinary moments became enduring cultural documents. Today, Clemtine Hunter’s work hangs in museums across the country, including the Smithsonian Institution. Though her story is inspiring, what continues to resonate to most is her humanity. Hunter painted the people she knew because she believed their lives mattered. Andrew LaMar Hopkins arrives at many of the same subjects, but from an entirely different direction. 12 INSIDE NORTHSIDE
HER WAY, HIS WAY: A CONVERSATION ACROSS TIME ANDREW LAMAR HOPKINS
Every great exhibition is, in some way, a conversation. Sometimes it is a conversation between an artist and an institution, or an idea, or a memory. JULY-AUGUST 2026 13
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A celebrated contemporary artist, historian, and antiquarian, Hopkins has devoted much of his career to exploring and preserving Creole culture through paint. Where Hunter documented a world she inhabited, Hopkins reconstructs one he has spent decades studying. His finely detailed paintings of Creole personages and settings emerge from research, oral histories, architectural archives, family traditions, and cultural memory. They are acts of preservation as much as artistic expression. In recent years, Hopkins has become one of the most important voices in Southern art. His paintings have entered the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., and nine of his original works frame the show “A City Rising” in Venice as part of the European Cultural Centre’s Personal Structures exhibition during the Venice Biennale. Yet despite the international recognition, Hopkins remains deeply rooted in Louisiana with the landscapes, architecture, customs, and people of this region continuing to serve as both subject and inspiration. That grounding is what makes Her Way, His Way so compelling. The exhibition is a meditation on the two artists’ similar truths, established through entirely different journeys. Hunter painted from lived memory. Hopkins paints from cultural and historical pursuit. Hunter documented a disappearing world as she witnessed it. Hopkins works to recover and preserve histories that risk being forgotten. And yet both artists are engaged in the same essential act: safeguarding the stories of our region. 14 INSIDE NORTHSIDE
HER WAY, HIS WAY: A CONVERSATION ACROSS TIME ANDREW LAMAR HOPKINS
Walking through the exhibition, viewers will find moments where the parallels become striking. Themes of labor, faith, family, celebration, and community appear again and again. The visual languages differ. The perspectives differ. But, the underlying belief remains consistent: the lives, traditions, and experiences of Louisianians deserve to be remembered and celebrated. At a time when so much contemporary culture is focused on innovation and artificial intelligence, there is profound meaning in art that insists on looking backward in order to move forward. Rather than treating history as something static or complete, Her Way, His Way demonstrates that history is alive. Together, across space and time, two artists create a dialogue that becomes a living testament to the cultural inheritance of Louisiana.
For Orleans Gallery, the exhibition is a fitting way to mark its first anniversary. Since opening in 2025, the gallery has consistently championed the idea that Southern art is essential to America’s cultural landscape and historical legacy. Few exhibitions embody that mission more clearly than this one. Because ultimately, Her Way, His Way is about far more than two celebrated artists. It is about memory, legacy, preservation, reinvention, and how stories survive. And in Louisiana, where culture is often passed from generation to generation by word of mouth and direct participation in our festivities, celebrations, and traditions, there may be no conversation more important. Her Way, His Way will remain on view through the end of July at Orleans Gallery at 603 Julia Street in the heart of New Orleans’ arts district. JULY-AUGUST 2026 15
presen t ed b y
Light Up the Lake Independence Day Celebration Saturday, July 4, 4:00 PM The City of Mandeville celebrates Independence Day with its 11th annual Light Up the Lake Festival & Fireworks Show. Part of the Northshore’s America 250 initiative, the free event features a lakefront parade at 4 p.m., live music by Groovy 7, food trucks, and children’s activities. Enjoy the “Liberty on the Lake” tribute and a brilliant fireworks display over Lake Pontchartrain at 8:45 p.m. Admission: Free. Lakeshore Drive between Coffee and Carroll Streets, Mandeville, (985) 624-3148, ExperienceMandeville.org
JULY
Pearl River Independence Day Celebration Friday, July 3, 6:00 PM
Celebrate Independence Day with small-town charm at the 8th annual Pearl River Independence Day Celebration. Bring lawn chairs and blankets for an evening of family fun, starting with an opening ceremony at 6 p.m. Enjoy lawn games, a pie-eating contest, inflatables, a petting zoo, and free food and drinks for all. As part of the Northshore’s America 250 initiative, the event concludes with a spectacular fireworks show at 9 p.m. 39460 Willis Alley, Pearl River, (985) 863-5800, facebook.com/ townofpearlriverla
Stars, Stripes & Stand-Up, A Comedy Benefit for Veterans Friday, July 3, 6:30 PM
Stars, Stripes & Stand-Up brings an 16 INSIDE NORTHSIDE
all-veteran lineup of comedians for an evening of comedy, camaraderie, and community support. The event benefits Irreverent Warriors and local American Legion and VFW posts, featuring stand-up comedy, a barbecue buffet, and premium seating options. Join fellow military supporters and comedy fans for an atmosphere focused on preventing veteran suicide through humor and connection. General admission: $20; Barbecue buffet and premium seating: $50 (Veteran discounts available). 200 Country Club Dr., Covington, (985) 259-3805, tinyurl.com/ VeteranCharityComedy26
Covington Celebrates America 250 feat. Cypress Creek Friday, July 3, 5:30 PM
Get a jump on your Fourth of July celebrations by bringing lawn chairs and blankets to the Covington Trailhead. Enjoy a free concert featuring the Southern Rock band, Cypress Creek, as they take the
stage for an evening of music and community spirit. It is the perfect way to kick off the holiday weekend with friends and neighbors in a relaxed, outdoor setting. Admission: Free 419 N. New Hampshire St., Covington, (985) 892-1873, covla.com
Olde Towne Slidell 4th of July Celebration Saturday, July 4, 4:00 PM
Put on your Red, White, and Blue and enjoy the 6th annual Olde Towne Slidell 4th of July Celebration. The fun begins at 4 p.m. with live music at three locations, cooling zones, family-friendly activities, and a hot dog eating contest at 6 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy delicious food and beverages from on-site vendors before the spectacular fireworks finale at dusk. Admission: Free 2200 Block of Carey St., Slidell, (985) 285-4415, facebook.com/ OldeTowneSlidell
Madisonville Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration Saturday, July 4, 11:00 AM
Join the Town of Madisonville and Keep Madisonville Beautiful for their annual Old-Fashioned 4th of July Celebration on the banks of the Tchefuncte River. This family-friendly event features kids’ games, cornhole and horseshoe tournaments, a Veterans’ Salute, and fun contests like watermelon eating and rooster crowing. Bring chairs and picnic baskets to enjoy the festivities, which conclude with fireworks at dusk. Admission: Free. Water Street, Madisonville, facebook.com/ madisonvilleoldfashioned4thofjuly
4 on the 4th Fun Run Saturday, July 4, 7:30 AM Celebrating 27 years, this family fun run/walk sponsored by the 15th Street Flyers running club supports local nonprofits and community organizations. The event includes a four-mile adults’ race and a half-mile kids’ race (12 and under). Plus, there is a 21+ Beer Mile post-race favorite. Wear your best red, white, and blue attire for awards, door prizes, and music. Admission: Free for spectators; fees for participants. 1000 W. 15th Ave., Covington, (504) 460-2991, run4onthe4th.com
Sparks in the Park
Saturday, July 4, 5:30 PM Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to Covington’s Bogue Falaya Park for the annual “Sparks in the Park,” a free festival featuring loads of food, music, and fun for all ages as part of the Northshore’s America 250 Independence Day celebrations. The evening includes activities for kids, vendor booths, and a variety of local food trucks. The celebration concludes with a spectacular fireworks display at dusk. Admission: Free 213 Park Drive, Covington, (985) 892-1873, covla.com
Abita Springs 4th of July Celebration Saturday, July 4, 5:00 PM
Celebrate Independence Day at Abita Springs Trailhead Park with the town’s America 250 festival. Enjoy live music, craft vendors, and delicious food from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with a spectacular fireworks display around 9 p.m. Please note that no outside food or drinks are allowed. Parking is limited, so carpooling or using the St. Tammany Trace is highly recommended. Bring chairs and blankets for comfort. Admission: Free. 22044 Main St., Abita Springs, (985) 892-0711, townofabitasprings.com
North Star Theatre presents “The Pirates of Penzance”
July 10–19, Fridays & Saturdays, 7:00 PM; Sundays, 2:00 PM JULY-AUGUST 2026 17
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Moonlight Productions and North Star Theatre present the Gilbert and Sullivan classic, “The Pirates of Penzance,” in old Mandeville. This beloved comedic opera tells the story of Frederic, a pirate apprentice, and his adventures. Performances take place at the intimate North Star Theatre. It is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy community-focused live theater in a unique and welcoming environment. Admission: $25–$30 (plus fees). 347 Girod St., Mandeville, (985) 778-8671, northstartheatre.org
Opening Reception featuring Ryan Perea and Students Saturday, July 11, 4:30-6:30 PM
The Atrium Gallery at Christwood presents an exhibition of artwork by Ryan Perea and his students from the Columbia Street Academy and Gallery in downtown Covington, on view July 11 through August 28, 2026. This exhibition showcases a diverse collection of paintings and drawings created by emerging and established artists working side by side in the studio. Perea, a classically trained fine artist and educator, guides students of all skill levels in developing their artistic abilities through traditional techniques. Admission: Free. 100 Christwood Blvd., Covington, (985) 892-0711, christwoodrc.com/ atrium-gallery
STAA Presents The Summer Show
July 11–September 12, Wednesdays-Fridays, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM, Saturdays 11:00 AM-4:00 PM The St. Tammany Art Association presents its 56th Annual National Juried Exhibition, “The Summer Show,” at the Art House. This prestigious event showcases original works by artists from across the country, selected by distinguished juror MaPó Kinnord. Visitors can explore a diverse collection of paintings and drawings while supporting the local arts community. 18 INSIDE NORTHSIDE
Don’t miss the opening reception on July 12. Admission: Free.
relaxed, community-focused evening of fun for everyone. Admission: Free.
320 N. Columbia St., Covington, (985) 892-8650, sttammany.art
1809 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, (985) 276-9335, npassingers.org
Playmakers Theater presents “Gilligan’s Island: The Musical”
The Lobby Lounge Listening Room Concert: Katie Boeck
July 11–26, Friday & Saturdays, 7:30 PM; Sundays, 2:00 PM
Playmakers Theater of Covington presents this wacky, family-friendly musical adventure based on the 1960s television classic. Join the castaways as they navigate their remote island, featuring 18 original songs, romances, and comic misadventures. Founded in 1955, Playmakers Theater is one of the longestcontinuously operating community theaters in the U.S., offering a nostalgic and fun experience for all ages. Admission: $20–$30 (plus fees). 19106 Playmakers Rd., Covington, (985) 263-0055, bontempstix.com/ organizations/playmakers-theater-ofcovington
Kokomo Stroll
Saturday, July 11, 6:00 PM Get into a summer state of mind at the 9th annual Kokomo Stroll in downtown Covington. Sip summer cocktails, craft beers, and dance to live music while browsing local shops along Columbia Street. Tropical attire is strongly encouraged for this 21+ only event. It runs rain or shine from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Admission: Free to stroll, $45 for tasting cup. Historic Downtown Covington, (504) 439-2543, kokomostroll.com
Monday, July 13, 7:00 PM
The Harbor Center in Slidell hosts singer, songwriter, and storyteller Katie Boeck for an evening of emotionally resonant music. This “Up Close and Musical” concert series features acoustic or lightly amplified performances in an intimate, 124-seat listening room venue. Enjoy folk, Americana, and soul music in this Bohemian-style, smoke-free environment perfect for music lovers. Admission: $22–$116 (+ tax/fees). 100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell, (985) 781-3650, eventbrite.com/e/ katie-boeck-live-at-the-lobby-loungetickets-1720702319959
Cruisin’ for Kicks
Tuesday, July 14, 6:00 PM Abita Brewing Company and the Mande Milkshakers host a fun, family-friendly evening of classic cars, live music, and local food. Guests who donate a new pair of school-appropriate shoes will receive a token for a free pint, with all proceeds benefiting the Bayou Lacombe Cardinals’ Back-to-School program. It is a fantastic way to support local students. Admission: One pair of new school shoes. 21084 Hwy. 36, Covington (985) 705-0955, facebook.com/ MandeMilkshakers
Running of the Fools
Saturday, July 18, 10:00 AM
NPAS Karaoke Night
Saturday, July 11, 4:30 PM Join the Northlake Performing Arts Society for a casual karaoke night at Coscino’s in Mandeville. This open-to-the-public event is the perfect opportunity to sing your favorite songs while enjoying delicious food and drinks from the restaurant. It is a
Run, walk, or stumble through downtown Covington at this race, where participants are chased by the St. John Fools of Misrule’s “Bulls.” Held on the third Saturday in July, attendees should wear all white with red, purple, green, or gold accents. The event includes a pre-party from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., the race at 11 a.m., and an after-party featuring food, drinks,
PRESENTED BY: VISIT THE NORTHSHORE and live music. Admission: Free for Fools & Jewels, $10 for general public. 434 N. Columbia St., Covington, FoolsofMisrule.com
Back to School Bash Saturday, August 1, 11:00 AM
This family-friendly celebration offers a fun-filled afternoon for students before heading back to the classroom. Attendees can enjoy free food and drinks, refreshing water slides to beat the heat, and various engaging crafts. Grab your towels, bring the kids, and enjoy this fantastic end-ofsummer event with the community. Admission: Free. 82378 June St., Folsom, (985) 630-0715, villageoffolsom.com
Southern Nights Soirée Friday, August 7, 7:00 PM
Join the St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce for an elegant evening celebrating Southern hospitality, community, and connection at the Fleur De Lis Event Center. Guests are encouraged to don their finest seersucker suits and linen sundresses for this premier social event. Enjoy live music by Four Unplugged, exceptional local cuisine, premium cocktails, and exciting raffles and auctions in a festive atmosphere designed for networking and celebration. Admission: $150 Single, $250 Couple. 1645 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, (985) 273-3007, business. sttammanychamber.org
White Linen & Lagniappe Saturday, August 8, 6:00 PM
Don your cool summer whites for Slidell’s 9th annual White Linen & Lagniappe in Olde Towne. This family-friendly event features after-hours shopping, fine art, delicious food, and signature cocktails. Be sure to stroll along Antique Umbrella Alley, a permanent art installation of 80 brightlyJULY-AUGUST 2026 19
INSIDE SCOOP colored umbrellas suspended above First Street, which offers great photo opportunities. Enjoy live music and entertainment throughout this festive evening. Admission: Free.
100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell, (985) 781-3650, eventbrite.com/e/goldpinelive-at-the-lobby-loungetickets-1720704626859
Old Towne, Slidell, (985) 646-4375, myslidell.com
July 13–August 31, Varies
Covington White Linen for Public Art Saturday, August 15, 6:00 PM
Celebrate the close of summer with this 11th annual free soirée in downtown Covington. The event showcases the Northshore’s vast array of artists, restaurants, and shops in the name of public art. Pedestrians are invited to shop, stroll, eat, and imbibe while enjoying local vendors, live music, and art demonstrations throughout the Cultural Arts District. Admission: Free. 409 E. Boston St., Covington, (504) 236-8827, covingtonpublicart.org
The Lobby Lounge Listening Room Concert: Goldpine Thursday, August 27, 7:00 PM
Join The Harbor Center in Slidell for the “Up Close and Musical” concert featuring Goldpine, a folksy Americana duo with innovative, eclectic musical arrangements. The Lobby Lounge is a Bohemianstyle, smoke-free, 124-seat listening room venue that hosts nationally touring acts from indie rock, folk, country, jazz, and blues. Admission: General Admission: $20; Table for 2: $58; Table for 4: $116 (+ tax/fees). 20 INSIDE NORTHSIDE
PRESENTED BY: VISIT THE NORTHSHORE
Tammany Taste of Summer
St. Tammany Parish businesses turn up the heat for the 9th annual Tammany Taste of Summer, delivering delicious deals on dining, hotel stays, and attractions. Explore great dining deals across The Northshore throughout the month of August. It is the perfect opportunity to experience the region’s culinary scene at a fraction of the cost. Admission: Varies. Location Varies, (985) 892-0520, tammanytaste.com
SLT Presents “Seussical, The Musical”
August 28–September 13, 7:30 PM (Fri/Sat), 2:00 PM (Sat/Sun) Slidell Little Theatre presents the whimsical “Seussical, The Musical.” Guided by the Cat in the Hat, the story follows Horton the Elephant as he protects the tiny Whos on a speck of dust and guards an abandoned egg. This family-friendly tale weaves together beloved Dr. Seuss characters in a playful story about friendship, loyalty, and the power of believing. Admission: Adults $35, Students and Seniors $25. 2024 Nellie Dr., Slidell, (985) 643-0556, slidelllittletheatre.org/tickets
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DESIGN
luxurious
sanctuary By Miranda Moore Photos by Laura Steffan
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n Mandeville’s Sanctuary neighborhood, a newly constructed home offers a polished interpretation of traditional design.
For Ciji Lassus, principal designer and owner of CH Design Studio, the work begins well before the first finish is selected. Her process starts with the clients themselves: how they live, how they entertain, what they need from each room and how they want the house to feel at the end of the day. Design, in her view, is not an exercise in imposing a look. It is a process of translation. Lassus places a high value on natural materials and what she describes as timeless design. It is a phrase often used loosely, but here it has a clear meaning. Timelessness comes from references with history, materials with integrity and rooms that do not depend too heavily on a single
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DESIGN
trend. Neutral tones create the foundation, allowing mixed metals, varied finishes and pieces from different periods to work together with ease. The goal is not a room frozen in one style, but a home with enough depth to age well. The tone is established at the entry, where a glass-beaded chandelier catches the light and introduces the home’s broader vocabulary: graceful materials, tailored details and a preference for classic forms. The kitchen became one of the clearest expressions of that approach. Working from blueprints provided by Jonathan Walther of Premier Custom Homes, Lassus brought the plans into AutoCAD to refine the details. The room features Taj Mahal stone, transitional cabinetry and acrylic brass hardware, a combination that gives the kitchen a finished look without making it feel overly decorated. The island was enlarged to improve proportion and function, while traditional wood posts add warmth and a sense of permanence. Nearby, the bar area carries the same material language in a more intimate way. A waterfall stone edge gives it a crisp architectural finish, while a built-in wine fridge and floating shelves make the space practical for entertaining. Cantilevered wall sconces add atmosphere without overwhelming the composition. It is a working space, but it has the poise of a room designed to be seen. 24 INSIDE NORTHSIDE
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In the living room, the design challenge stemmed from the clients’ previous experience. Their former home did not have enough seating, which made entertaining difficult. Lassus answered that problem directly, building the room around comfort, conversation and flexibility. Two oversized tailored sofas anchor the main seating area, while swivel lounge chairs allow the room to adapt as people gather and move. A large blue velvet ottoman gives the children a soft place to land and brings a measured note of color into the palette. An arched glass door connects the entryway to the living room, drawing in natural light and giving the transition between spaces a sense of ceremony. Along one wall, custom millwork holds books, family photographs and collected objects. These details prevent the room from reading as purely finished or formal. Instead, the living room feels ready for actual use, whether the occasion is a Sunday football game or cocktails with friends. In the primary suite, the design becomes softer and more private. Venetian mirrors hang above the nightstands. The hand-carved canopy bed, finished in gray-toned wood, anchors the space against European white oak flooring. A textured Oushak rug brings the palette together and adds warmth underfoot. Traditional nightstands provide practical storage, while lounge seating gives the room a sense of retreat. MAY-JUNE 2026 25
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The primary bathroom continues that lighter mood. An oversized soaking tub, marble tile and stone countertops create a calm, open atmosphere. Glass hardware, brass accents and polished-nickel details add interest without competing for attention. Long LED-backlit mirrors bring even light to the vanities, while handblown glass sconces repeat the glass detailing found elsewhere in the home. When asked why she chose interior design as a career, Lassus said “Interior design is the most impactful way we as humans experience 26 INSIDE NORTHSIDE
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space. Being creative and shaping how someone feels when they walk into a room is extremely powerful.” That belief is visible throughout this Sanctuary home. Its rooms are carefully finished, but not treated as static displays. They are designed around movement, gathering, privacy and daily use. That balance is what gives the house its strength: elegance with purpose, and beauty that understands how to live.
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COMMUNITY CHAMPION
ST. TAMMANY HEALTH SYSTEM In 1954, St. Tammany Health System (STHS) was founded to serve the community. That objective has not changed in the 70-plus years since. “Our mission statement begins by stating that we are the heartbeat of the community,” said Kerry Milton, chief nursing officer. “It goes on to state that we will care for our patients and their families with excellence, compassion and teamwork. Our purpose and focus are based on the community we serve.” She is rightly proud of the culture of care that STHS has intentionally crafted and maintained over the past seven decades. All STHS employees are encouraged to engage with the community both professionally and personally. Milton can personally attest to the depth and breadth of community involvement within the 900-member nursing team. The St. Tammany Council on Aging, Louisiana Heart Association, Hope House and Northshore Food Bank are just a few of the organizations that come to mind when asked how team members contribute their personal time and energy to local nonprofits. A complete list would likely fill every page of a magazine, she added. Of course, there are countless community outreach and engagement activities sponsored by the hospital, too. The Be Well Bus, which travels throughout the region offering services such as mammograms and cancer screenings, is one example. The annual Monster Mash, a fall family festival for the Northshore community for more than 35 years, is another. “To isolate one specific example of how STHS and our employees engage with the community would be irresponsible,” Milton said. “It would fall short of expressing how entwined with the community we truly are.” As she looks toward retirement after 44 years of service as leader of the nursing team, Milton said the entirety of her career at STHS reflects that service-first philosophy. “My career has been an opportunity to give back to the people of this community,” she said. “Service for the community is who we are and what we do at St. Tammany Health System.”
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1202 S. Tyler St, Covington, LA 70433 985.898.4000
COMMUNITY CHAMPION
COMMUNITY CHAMPION
NORTHSHORE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
COVINGTON TRACE ER & HOSPITAL
At Northshore Technical Community College, commitment has a name: Gators Give. The internal giving campaign is funded by the people who work closest to the mission, the faculty and staff who see up close what a scholarship can achieve. By keeping financial stress at bay, students can stay focused on their classes, adding extra stability to their education and their future. Gators Give is here to provide that vital support right when it matters most.
With more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Matthew Bernard, chief medical officer of Covington Trace ER & Hospital, has built a career that includes military service, clinical leadership and community service. He also bakes a delicious loaf of bread, according to his employees, who are often the beneficiaries of his baking skills.
Over the past 10 years, the campaign has helped award scholarships to 68 students, while also supporting professional development and the college’s highest needs. Behind every dollar is a story of care, of someone choosing to invest in a student’s future and in the continued growth of their workplace. “Because of you, students like me are able to continue our education, focus on our goals, and step into opportunities we may not have otherwise had. Your generosity does not just fund tuition — it funds dreams. It funds confidence. It funds possibility,” said Pamela Williams, a Gators Give Scholarship recipient, NTCC Student Government Association executive president and Class of 2026 Development of Young Children student. Donations to support NTCC can be made to the Northshore College Enhancement Foundation at northshorecollege.edu/advancement.
northshorecollege.edu
“Dr. Bernard’s commitment to service extends beyond medicine,” said Katie Palazzo, marketing and business development director for Covington Trace. “He is a visionary who is equally as passionate about his profession as he is about giving back to the community and his employees.” His example sets the tone for Covington Trace’s approach to community engagement. Dr. Bernard is a repeat celebrity chef in the Heroes Who Cook contest benefiting Hope House. In partnership with Walk-On’s, he and the Covington Trace team have raised thousands of dollars through their “Pours with a Purpose” whiskey, beer and wine tasting fundraiser. His commitment to the community recently earned him recognition as one of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Northshore’s Finest honorees. “We are blessed to live and work where we do,” Palazzo added. “It’s important to all of us that Covington Trace give back to the community we have the honor to serve.”
4107 LA-59 | Mandeville, LA 70471 | (985) 951-3650 | covingtonhospital.com JULY-AUGUST 2026 31
The nonprofit organizations featured in this guide are at the heart of what makes the Northshore community stronger and healthier. By supporting children and families, advancing education and healthcare, and addressing other critical needs, these organizations work every day to improve the quality of life across our region. As a community foundation, the Northshore Community Foundation serves as a connector bringing together the people and organizations that make lasting impact possible. Through nonprofit membership, training opportunities, and collaborative partnerships, the Foundation helps strengthen the organizations working to meet our community's greatest needs. This guide is designed to help you discover organizations whose missions align with your values and passions. However you choose to get involved, every act of support helps expand the reach and effectiveness of local nonprofits. The Foundation is also expanding the conversation around philanthropy through impact investing initiatives that align financial resources with measurable community outcomes. This year, the Foundation launched its first impact fund focused on supporting at-risk youth - investing in solutions that create stronger families, safer communities, and greater opportunities for the next generation. By supporting the organizations in this guide, you are not only giving back - you are investing in the future of the Northshore region. Scan the QR code to start making an impact.
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Northlake Behavioral Health System is a 501c3 not for profit providing collaborative mental health services to improve and restore patients’ mental health and quality of life. We accomplish our mission by providing continuous quality improvement and progress through our values of compassion, integrity, respect and teamwork.
23455 Sparrow Rd. Mandeville, LA 70448 (985) 626-6300 northlakebh.org
SCAN TO DONATE
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FLOURISHES
SUMMER LOVIN’
Double Row Diamond Bezel Necklace, 18k gold. Price available upon request. Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, (504) 832-0000.
Blossom Bird Sanctuary Bowl, 14” diameter. Niche Modern Home, (985) 626-4045. The Gibbons Dress is a more tailored shirt dress and is the perfect style for when you want to look effortlessly put-together. Mackenzie and Me, (985) 888-1588.
Pure clover honey bottled in corked glass jars reproduced from an 1800s honey jar. Food Lovers Marketplace, (985) 231-7181.
Pebble Hill with Top Scroll by The CopperSmith. Available in 3 sizes and 4 finishes in gas or electric. Gulf Coast Lanterns, (800) 910-3275, gulfcoastlanterns.com.
The Althea short-sleeve performance shirt offers 4-way stretch, is moisturewicking, and remains wrinkle-resistant. Fairly Local, (985) 635-5705.
Thomas O’Brien Monique 20” Table Lamp. V Home Interiors, (985) 231-7411. Easy to wear, the Helen Dress is adjustable at the shoulders and features a slightly longer hem at the back. Olive Patch, (985) 327-5772. JULY-AUGUST 2026 49
F E AT U R E
If You Build It, They Will Come Local Knitters Find Community By Mimi Greenwood Knight Photos by Raegan Moeller
Y
ou never know where you’ll find community. In a tiny strip mall behind a fast-food restaurant in Mandeville, for instance, is an unassuming storefront. Inside, on any given day, you’ll find men and women gathered around a common interest. Over the past year and a half, these knitters and crocheters have formed a tiny village of support and camaraderie. The store is Swamp Yayas Yarn Shoppe, and the hub of this unlikely wheel is a gregarious German American named Kat Holmgren. For Holmgren, needlework has been a way of life for decades. “My grandmother back in Germany taught me to crochet first, then to knit, when I was five,” she said. “She was strict, too. I’m lefthanded, but she insisted I learn to knit righthanded. And if I made a mistake, she’d rip it out and make me start again.” Five was not actually all that young to pick up the needles. “In Germany, every child learned cross-stitch, then weaving, then crocheting in first grade,” Holmgren said. “By fourth grade, we all learned to knit. My dad, brother, nephew, husband, and sons all knit.” These days, she admits, the men in her family only pick up the needles when they need a new pair of socks. For her, it is a way of life. When Holmgren and her family relocated to Louisiana from Washington state, there were a lot of adjustments to make. Her boys missed their school, friends and neighborhood. But for Holmgren, it was the knit shop she missed. “They had open seating where I could go on Saturday mornings, just sit with others, knit, and visit,” she said. “Somebody brought coffee and somebody else brought Danishes. Often my husband would join us. There was nothing like that for me here.” Once in Louisiana, she did find a lovely knit shop. “But you’d go in, buy your yarn, visit a minute, and leave,” she said. “There wasn’t the social element I was missing.” So, in February 2025, with the encouragement of her husband, she took a giant leap of faith. She left a stable, well-paying job and opened Swamp Yayas Yarn Shoppe at 2201 11th St., Suite 2, in Mandeville. From the beginning, she wanted the shop to offer the kind of social connection she had been missing.
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SWAMP YAYAS Arranged around the walls of Swamp Yayas are lines of yarn from local Louisiana companies, companies from her home country of Germany, and other makers she knows to be of superior quality. But the main attraction is the collection of comfy chairs that, on most days, are occupied by knitters and crocheters chatting, laughing, sharing treats and sometimes advice while the shop’s angora rabbits, Cecil and Hazel, hop around their feet. Holmgren makes a point of handling her administrative work before opening or after closing so she can be available to her guests throughout the day. “I’m never alone,” she said. “I open at noon and go home at 6:00 or 8:00 or whenever everyone is ready to go. And there’s never a dull moment.” Wednesday and Friday nights usually bring a younger crowd for BYOB sip-and-knit events. Saturday mornings are busy with knitters who work 9 to 5 during the week and are eager to fit in some knitting and socializing. “One gentleman comes every day on his lunch hour,” Holmgren said. “I’m not sure when he eats, but when he’s here, he knits.” There are several men, in fact, of varying ages who are regulars, along with married couples who come together. “They all just roll in and roll out, coming and going, and they all get to know each other,” Holmgren said. “We have two elderly women who come quite a lot.” In fact, Miss Peggy, 90, and Miss Mary, 93, drive themselves to the shop, and Holmgren reports that both are sharp as a tack.
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F E AT U R E
It has long been understood that needlework can support brain health by stimulating memory, attention and fine motor skills while encouraging the formation of new neural pathways. Social connection can also stimulate memory, strengthen neural networks and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. If you question the experts’ findings, just pop into Swamp Yayas for some anecdotal proof. There are movie nights where crafters work on their latest projects while enjoying a Miss Marple mystery or a rom-com such as “You’ve Got Mail” or “The First Wives Club.” “Why sit at home alone watching a movie and knitting when we can enjoy it together?” Holmgren said. On the rare occasion someone comes in without a project, there is a community project tucked inside a basket they can pick up and work on. It is a blanket that will be raffled off, with proceeds going to a local hospice-care facility. There is plenty of teaching going on as well. Holmgren offers a variety of paid options for help with projects. “You’re welcome to pay for the day or even the hour, if you need help with something you’re working on,” she said. “You can come in any time you want and we’ll help you pick up stitches or work stitches for you, unravel your mistakes or help with blocking, sewing, or reading a pattern.” There are also packages for those who want help with a project from beginning to end. 52 INSIDE NORTHSIDE
SWAMP YAYAS
Drunken Sheep Yarn Co. of Abita Springs At the heart of Drunken Sheep are lifelong knitters and twin sisters Heather and Heidi, along with their simple belief that life is better with more color. What started as a hobby with dye pots and yarn in Heather’s kitchen grew into something more. When Swamp Yayas gave them an outlet for their yarn, they were able to turn their passion into purpose. Their mission is simple. Through every skein they dye and every stitch they knit, they want to spread warmth, creativity and a little laughter to their community. They hope to sell their hand-dyed, smallbatch yarn across the Southeast and keep spreading the joy.
Holmgren makes no bones about charging for her help. “If you went to a yoga class, you’d pay the yogi,” she said. “If you work with a personal trainer, you’ll pay them for their expertise. But my goal is to teach you to knit. Then, you can knit without my help for the rest of your life.” Holmgren is interested in helping local yarn makers as well. One of those is Drunken Sheep Yarn Co., a small indie dye company out of Abita Springs. “I met Heidi and her twin sister, Heather, at McNeedle’s in Lacombe,” Holmgren said. “When McNeedle’s closed, we had to go all the way to Lafayette to find what we’d had there.” One night over several bottles of wine at the Myrtles Plantation, they came up with the idea for Drunken Sheep and Swamp Yayas Yarn Shoppe. They have been big supporters of each other ever since. Swamp Yayas sponsors workshops as well. They recently finished one on spinning yarn and are planning another on spinning fleece. They are also organizing a fashion show at the end of the year, where YaYaites can strut their stuff and show off their creations. Miss Alma and Miss Heather will display their knitted and crocheted toys. “Knitting is my passion,” Holmgren said. “If I couldn’t do it anymore, we would have a big problem. I feel really lucky to be able to connect with others and give them a place to do what they love as well.”
Olympic Knitters If you’re a fan of the Olympics, you may have noticed an upswing in needlework on the sidelines and in the Olympic Village. A few fiber-art enthusiasts have helped bring knitting into the spotlight. Canadian biathlete Adam Runnalls went viral while documenting the progress of his custom Olympic-themed sweater. British diver Tom Daley endeared himself to fellow athletes by knitting handmade medal holders. Team USA cross-country skiers Ben Ogden and Jessie Diggins both took up knitting to manage downtime, bringing supplies and even shipping yarn to Italy. Finnish snowboard coach Antti Koskinen and American snowboarder Maddie Mastro were both seen knitting around the Olympic Village. JULY-AUGUST 2026 53
GENEROUS HEARTS
Highlighting Philanthropy on the Northshore Our partners at the Northshore Community Foundation exist to make it easy for each of us to make a difference in our own backyard. Now in their 18th year, the Foundation has touched over 103 million dollars in philanthropic fuel, focusing on simplifying, organizing and magnifying philanthropy at every turn. The Foundation has reached those remarkable numbers in three primary ways. First, they engage hundreds of individuals, families, companies and nonprofits in a membership model that promotes active connections and charitable work. Second, they take the paperwork out of “doing good” by administering funds that act as charitable checkbooks for any purpose. Last, they step into big roles when the need is great — especially in times of disaster. Through these three unique and critical roles, the Foundation uses its expertise and resources to magnify the incredible charitable work so prevalent in our region.
Everyone is a philanthropist. To Learn how you can do more in your own backyard, reach out to the Foundation at northshorefoundation.org
Connecting Communities: The Power of the Chevron Community Fellows By Christine Beavers
As a lifelong resident of St. Tammany, I thought I knew this community well. But when I first stepped into the nonprofit world, and into my very first Chevron Community Fellows session, I realized how much more there was to learn. I still remember walking into that room for the first time and recognizing very few faces. People from different organizations, industries and backgrounds were already deep in conversation, and I honestly wasn’t quite sure what to expect or where the experience would lead. At the time, I wasn’t working at the Northshore Community Foundation. I was simply one of the Fellows, curious about what could happen when leaders from across the Northshore came together with different experiences, perspectives and ideas. What I quickly learned was this: the Chevron Community Fellows program wasn’t designed like a typical leadership program. There was no set formula for what the year would become. No rigid roadmap. Instead, the experience evolved around the people in the room, the conversations we were having, and the needs our community was facing at that moment. That’s exactly what made it work. The Chevron Community Fellows program is an initiative of the Northshore Community Foundation made possible through the support of Chevron. Since launching in 2021, the program has brought together
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1st Row (left to right): Nicole Davis, Michelle Gall, Brittny Soteropulos, Vivian Ely, Melanie Rudolph 2nd Row (left to right): Chris Brown, Gladys Campbell, Patrick Mauti, JC Flick, Sarah Pechon, Lana Stevens, Lauren Heisser, Adele Bates, and Connie Landrum
leaders from across the Northshore representing nonprofits, schools, health care systems, businesses, chambers of commerce and grassroots organizations. Now celebrating its sixth cohort, the program continues to evolve based on the people in the room and the challenges facing our community. Each year, conversations take shape around what matters most in that moment, whether that’s mental health, workforce development, healthcare access, education, or disaster response. Participants engage in discussions, site visits, collaborative workshops and professional development opportunities, but often the most meaningful moments happen in between: the conversations over coffee, the unexpected partnerships and the relationships that continue long after the program ends. That flexibility reflects the role community foundations are uniquely positioned to play: bringing together the right voices, perspectives and partners to strengthen the region. “The strength of this program isn’t just in the training — it’s in the relationships that form,” said Leslie Landry, president and CEO of the Northshore Community Foundation. “When leaders from across sectors come together, they create a network capable of creating lasting impact. Every cohort brings a different perspective, and that’s what makes this experience so meaningful. We’re building connections that continue far beyond the program itself.”
The 2026 cohort includes leaders from organizations such as St. Tammany Health System, Visit the Northshore, LOPA, Mauti Cancer Fund, NAMI and the YMCA, among others, each bringing their own experiences, challenges and ideas to the table. For Chevron, investing in leadership development is part of investing in the long-term strength of the community. “At Chevron, we believe strong communities are built through collaboration and leadership,” said Jeremy Haken, Chevron Public Affairs Manager. “The Chevron Community Fellows program brings together individuals who are committed to making the Northshore stronger, and we are proud to support an initiative that continues to invest in tomorrow’s problem solvers.” Looking back now, what stands out most to me isn’t just what I learned, it’s the reminder that meaningful change rarely happens alone. It happens when people are willing to listen, show up, share ideas and work together toward something bigger than themselves. And sometimes, it starts simply by walking into a room full of unfamiliar faces, not knowing yet how much they’ll shape the way you see your community. If you were helping shape the future of our community, what issue or opportunity would you want leaders to focus on most — and why? Scan the QR code and let us know. JULY-AUGUST 2026 55
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PEEK
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Habitat for Humanity STW Honors Dronet Family in 2025 Women Build Home Dedication Ceremony On June 4, 2026, Habitat for Humanity STW celebrated the 2025 Women Build home dedication for the Dronet family, marking the realization of their homeownership dream through community support. The event, led by President and CEO Terri Gage, featured emotional reflections and a key message from Chevron’s Caitlin Hunter on the importance of stable housing. Attendees toured the new home, witnessing the impact of their contributions to Habitat’s ongoing mission of building affordable housing and generational wealth. To learn more about Women Build and how you can make a difference, please visit habitatstw.org/womenbuild. For more information about our homeownership program, visit habitatstw.org/own-home.
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WB 2026
LUNCHEON SPONSORS
WOMEN IN BUSINESS
Thank You
PRESENTING SPONSOR
The St. Tammany Parish Tourist and Convention Commission dba Visit The Northshore is a public, quasi-governmental agency created on Nov. 18, 1976. We are creating an easy and accessible escape for leisure travelers, business travelers, and local residents alike. Visit The Northshore delivers
world-class culinary flavors, thriving downtowns, aspirational adventures, and plenty of outdoor recreation for one or many to enjoy. With a network of unified communities to explore and water always within reach, Visit The Northshore is committed to cultivating the vacation mindset.
Anntoine Marketing + Design is a full-service Creative Design Agency in Hammond, Louisiana. They offer a strategic approach utilizing cuttingedge technology for long-term success. From stunning websites and strategic social media to bold branding, SEO, and video production, we bring everything your business needs under one roof. Recognized on the 2025 Inc. 5000 as the 45th fastest-growing company in Louisiana, their focus is client success. Ready to grow? Visit us at anntoine.com or call (985) 602-0600.
Based in Mandeville, About You In Home Care and Vital Medical Staffing are two locally owned and operated companies proudly serving the Northshore and surrounding communities. About You In Home Care delivers compassionate, personalized support that enables individuals to remain safe, comfortable, and independent in their own homes. Vital Medical Staffing partners with healthcare facilities to provide reliable, high-quality clinical professionals to meet evolving staffing needs. Together, their mission is rooted in putting people first, supporting families, and strengthening the level of care across their community through trusted relationships and dependable service. vitalmedicalstaffing.com
PUSH Design Group helps small to midsized and emerging brands grow with intention. Combining traditional, digital, and AI-focused strategies, their proven method turns marketing chaos into clarity and actionable next steps. Headquartered in Louisiana and serving brands nationwide, PUSH operates as a true growth partner with a scalable team built to meet demand, giving ambitious businesses the strategy, structure, and momentum to grow confidently. pushdesigngroup.com
PEEK
WOMEN IN BU SINESS
2026 WIB Luncheon Sponsored by Visit the Northshore Photography by Moeller Media & Photography Inside Northside’s highly popular annual event was sponsored this year by Visit the Northshore, Anntoine Marketing + Design, Vital Medical Staffing, About You Home Care, Push Design Group, United Community Bank, Abby Photo, and Covington Country Club. The program featured several significant highlights, including a dynamic panel discussion on AI Implementation featuring Lexi Hartman, Lauren Navarre, Desiree Forsyth, and moderated by Tiffany King. We want to thank all the attendees for making it an afternoon of community and connection.
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PEEK
Brooke It Forward Birthdays & All That Jazz Fundraiser Photography by Moeller Media & Photography The Brooke It Forward Foundation hosted its inaugural Birthdays & All That Jazz fundraiser on Friday, June 12, 2026, at the Covington Country Club. Presented bt Penny and Quentin Dastugue and emceed by Daniel Munn, the sold-out event celebrated seven years of providing birthday magic to children facing adversity. Key figures included Founder and Board President Marie Rudd-Gregory, Executive Director Jessica Valladares, and Event Chair Heather Rietschel. Guests enjoyed live music by the Felonious Monks Jazz Trio, a delicious Southern brunch, elevated BINGO, a silent auction, and the crowd-favorite Mini Masterpiece Machine, showcasing artwork by local artist Marianne Angeli Rodriguez. The fundraiser successfully raised over $55,000 to support the Foundation’s mission of celebrating children in foster care, homelessness, or food insecurity across 20 Louisiana parishes through its signature Birthday Box Program. To learn more about Brooke It Forward, volunteer, donate, or become a Birthday Buddy, visit brookeitforward.org and follow Brooke It Forward Foundation on Facebook and Instagram.
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BROOKE IT FORWARD
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IN DEVELOPMENT Northshore Technical Community College Celebrates Largest Graduating Class in College History
Northshore Technical Community College (NTCC) reached a historic milestone at its 2026 Commencement Ceremony, celebrating its largest graduating class in history with 987 graduates. This achievement marks the third consecutive year of record-breaking growth, with an increase of more than 25% in a single year. Held at the Southeastern Louisiana University’s University Center, the event brought together families, faculty, and community supporters to honor students from across the college’s five-parish service area. Graduates earned credentials across high-demand fields, including nursing, welding, information technology, and advanced manufacturing. Louisiana Community and Technical College System President Dr. Richard Nelson served as the keynote speaker, encouraging graduates to continue learning and make meaningful impacts in their careers. Dr. Jim Carlson, Chancellor of NTCC, emphasized the significance of the accomplishment: “Tonight was a celebration of perseverance, achievement, and the power of opportunity. To graduate 987 students—and to break our own record for the third year in a row— is an extraordinary milestone for our college. More importantly, these graduates represent lives transformed, families uplifted, and communities strengthened through education”. Acknowledging the personal dedication required, Carlson added: “Many of our students balanced work, family responsibilities, and life’s many demands while pursuing their education. Their resilience and determination are inspiring. Tonight’s ceremony was not just about celebrating academic achievement—it was about celebrating grit, sacrifice, and new beginnings”. NTCC continues to focus on providing accessible, workforce-relevant education to students across St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Washington, St. Helena, and Livingston parishes.
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IN DEVELOPMENT
Evolve Coffee + Matcha Now Open in Mandeville Evolve Coffee + Matcha, a locally owned café known for its ceremonial-grade matcha and craft coffee, is now open at 2891 Highway 190, Unit B-3 in The Village Shopping Center, bringing its first Northshore location to Mandeville. Located within Mandeville’s growing wellness corridor, near Genesis Health Clubs and just minutes from new boutique fitness studio Good Moves, the new café is designed to serve as a daily destination for both routine and connection. Founded by New Orleans native Yvonne Pichoff, Evolve has built a loyal following for its elevated take on matcha and coffee, with a focus on quality and community. “We’re so excited to officially open our doors in Mandeville and become part of the Northshore community,” said Yvonne Pichoff, founder of Evolve Coffee + Matcha. “Our goal has always been to create a true ‘third place,” somewhere you can grab your morning coffee, meet a friend, go on a date, or settle in and get work done. We’ve put a lot of heart into this space, and we’re especially excited
to continue introducing more people to matcha in a way that feels approachable, elevated, and something they come to crave.” Evolve is known for its ceremonial-grade matcha, and is a go-to destination for matcha lovers and newcomers alike. In addition to its core menu, the café offers a rotating lineup of seasonal drinks, including fan favorites like a Mango Matcha available during the summer months. The Mandeville menu features favorites from Evolve’s existing locations, including: • The Rose Matcha Latte – made with real rose extrac • The White Chocolate Matcha – a creamy twist on the classic • The Evolution – a signature blend of ceremonial matcha and espresso with milk, also available frozen Guests can also enjoy locally roasted coffee from Mojo Coffee Roasters, along with classic espresso drinks, matcha lattes, herbal and traditional teas, and a curated selection of sweet and savory pastries. Light breakfast and lunch options will also be available, making it
an easy stop for both grab-and-go visits and longer stays. The space itself reflects Evolve’s signature open, natural, and calming aesthetic, created in collaboration with AGL Commercial Interiors. Designed to feel both welcoming and intentional, the café encourages guests to slow down, connect, and make it part of their daily routine. For updates and more information, visit evolvecoffeenola.com or follow @evolvecoffeenola on Instagram. About Evolve Coffee + Matcha Evolve Coffee + Matcha is a New Orleansborn café rooted in quality, mindfulness, and community. Founded in 2020 by Yvonne Pichoff, Evolve specializes in sustainably sourced espresso and ceremonial-grade matcha imported from Japan, paired with thoughtfully designed spaces that encourage guests to pause and connect. With multiple locations across Southeast Louisiana and continued growth, Evolve continues to set the standard for matcha in the region while building community one cup at a time. JULY-AUGUST 2026 63
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EAT & DRINK
TCHEFUNCTE’S
DESI VEGA'S STEAKHOUSE
MADISONVILLE
At Desi Vega's Steakhouse Northshore, our expertly seared, aged steaks promise indulgence in every bite. Alongside our signature steaks, we offer house-crafted desserts, specialty appetizers, and seafood options like jumbo lump scallops, market fish, and broiled lobster tail. For the best experience, reserve your table on OpenTable or call us. For large parties, email EVENTS@DESIVEGASNORTHSHORE.COM. We look forward to welcoming you to an elevated dining experience.
Indulge in a culinary journey at Tchefuncte’s, where our chefs masterfully craft Louisiana and American cuisine with the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. The upscale atmosphere, paired with the breathtaking scenic view of the Tchefuncte River, sets the perfect stage whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a long, leisurely meal, we’ve got you covered. To ensure that you have the best experience possible, we recommend making a reservation. For large parties and events, email us at EVENTS@TCHEFUNCTES.COM.
THE ANCHOR MADISONVILLE Tuesday 11am-7pm Wednesday-Thursday 11am-8pm Friday-Saturday 11am-8:30pm Sunday 11am-8pm
407 SAINT TAMMANY ST., MADISONVILLE (985) 323-4800 THEANCHORLA.COM
COVINGTON 1950 N. Highway 190, Covington, LA, (985) 276-4994
PARDOS AN AMERICAN BISTRO
COURTYARD BISTRO MANDEVILLE Serving traditional breakfast and lunch made fresh each day, specializing in Dutch babies, sandwiches, and seasonal dishes. A small gourmet market nearby carries many of the same ingredients used in the kitchen, making it easy to enjoy them again at home.
MANDEVILLE
Pardo's Fine Dining offers European and American Cuisine in a flavorful and relaxing atmosphere with a variety of foods from handmade pasta to Prime steaks, from specialty beers to artfully hand-crafted cocktails; there is surely something to please every palate.
1291 N. CAUSEWAY BLVD (985) 231-7181 THECOURTYARDBISTRO.COM
COMPAGNO’S
GALLAGHER’S
MANDEVILLE
SLIDELL AND COVINGTON
Fresh Seafood and Italian Cuisine. Opening in July 1600 W. CAUSEWAY APPROACH MANDEVILLE, LA (985) 629-4045
5280 HIGHWAY 22 MANDEVILLE LA 70471 (985) 893-3603 WWW.PARDOSRESTAURANT.COM PARDOSCATERING@GMAIL.COM
Award-winning entrées featuring sizzling steaks, pork chops, and the best seafood Louisiana has to offer. Whether you’re looking for fine dining in a comfortable setting, or a lunch that’s a cut above the rest, we specialize in creating the perfect experience for your needs. GALLAGHERSGRILL.COM
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