Sophisticated Woman Magazine | June-July 2026

Sophisticated Woman Magazine

By Women. For Women. Inspiring Women.

Publisher Barbara Edwards Doyle

Editor Lisa Murphy

Graphic Design Thomas Morgan, Michelle Plaisance-Billiot

Contributing Writers Jan Windhorst, Heidi Heyns, Erin Cowser, Kim Bergeron, Julie Dixon, Dr. Farhad X. Aduli, Sandra Scalise Juneau, Jarett Froeba

Account Executives Michelle Plaisance-Billiot, Linda Larkin

Contributing Photographers

Linda Larkin, Paige Henderson, Chuck Billiot, Michael Montgomery, Zach Boyle, Michelle Plaisance-Billiot, Anthony Billiot, Adrianna Crawford

Distribution Manager Anthony Figaro

Distribution for Rouses Danny Sunseri

Cover Photography

Paige Henderson

Fashion Contributors Michelle Plaisance- Billiot

Behind the Scenes

Our Enterprising Man Photo Shoot With Matthew Knick

The Sophisticated Woman team coordinated the photo shoot for this issue’s Enterprising Man, Matthew Knick. The photo shoot took place at one of their customer's beautiful homes in Terra Bella, Covington. Stylist and Makeup artist was Savanna Walker at Air Salon & Blow Dry Bar in Mandeville. Read more about Matthew on page 20.

Contributors

Sophisticated Woman Magazine

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Phone: 985-893-7350

e-mail: barbara@sophisticatedwoman.com website: SophisticatedWoman.com

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

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©2026 Sophisticated Woman Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher. Views expressed are not necessarily shared by the publisher or staff of this publication. Please mail comments or submit articles and photographs to the above address.

Distribution — Our publications are strategically mailed directly to high-value homeowners in affluent communities throughout St. Tammany and Tangipahoa Parishes. Additional distribution includes more than 300 upscale businesses, as well as multiple pickup locations, including Rouses Markets, Barnes & Noble, and Acquistapace’s Supermarkets, across both the Northshore and select Southshore locations.

Jan Windhorst is a Contributing Writer for Sophisticated Woman Magazine. She has a Master of Journalism from Louisiana State University and is a marketing consultant and freelance business writer. She also enjoys performing and playing keyboards in the band Four Unplugged.

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

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

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

Attention all Sophisticated Women, it is time to focus on the men in our lives and thank God for those who support and protect their families.

This Father’s Day will be the second one without my dad. It is not only a sad holiday for me because he is gone, but it is also a reminder that we were estranged most of my life. In 2008, we reconnected and attempted to make up for lost time. Now, that season has passed, and I miss him dearly.

I hope everyone who is blessed to still have their father or a father figure in their lives will not take the time that they still have for granted. Life is too short. May you have the opportunity to enjoy some quality family time with your dad and celebrate.

This issue, we will be sharing stories about some good men in our community. We also have a couple of articles about some amazing kids in our area. From creating robots to excelling in school, several organizations have awarded these bright and driven young men and women with scholarships to help them in their future endeavors.

It is June and school is out! From all of us at Sophisticated Woman Magazine, we wish you and your family a joyful Summer and Happy Father’s Day!!

Barbara Edwards Doyle

WALL ABOUT MEN

Every June, in honor of Father’s Day, Sophisticated Woman shines the light on the men in our lives. This year we are featuring prominent men in the community from legal, to medical professionals, music makers and service professionals.

Featured on this month’s cover, our Enterprising Man, Matthew Knick. He is the owner of WillowGrove Landscape and is a self-made entrepreneur, who tells about his rocky start, but how he overcame the challenges of his youth and became the successful business and family man he is today.

In this man-centered issue, we have a refreshing summer drink with a grilling recipe dad will enjoy on his special day. So, here's to all the fathers and father figures who work so hard at making our lives richer in every way!!

Joshua D. Allison A Professional Law Corporation is located at 207 E. Gibson Street in Covington, LA 70433. For more information, call: 985-302-5630, visit: allisonlawcorp.com LSBA filing #LA-26-20626

Joshua “Josh”

D.

Allison

Joshua D. Allison, A Professional Law Corporation

Trust is transactional. It must be earned and is not merely given. Such is the fundamental tenet of Northshore attorney Josh Allison's work ethic.

“Trust is imperative in the practice of law,” he says. “It’s not about slick advertising. It’s about relationships where individuals can trust me to use fact-based knowledge and legal expertise on their behalf.”

He favors board service because it fosters trust with the public and creates opportunities to connect with people beyond legal matters. This is why you’re apt to find him out and about in the community almost as often as in the courtroom.

No matter where you find him or what he’s doing, you can rest assured he’ll be doing it with a heaping helping of passion. He considers his passionate approach a reciprocal relationship with the community he loves.

“Clients who are passionate about their cases are what motivate me,” says the 38-year-old attorney with an impressive bevvy of accolades and awards lining his law office library shelves. “It’s working with people who are excited to start up their businesses. It’s people who are passionate about getting the outcomes for their businesses that will positively impact the communities and employees they serve. When we handle children and family cases, it’s the passion that moms and dads bring to the plate when stepping up as parents. We want to help those who are passionate about their health and recovery, not those who just want to sit back and wait for a check.”

His passion throughout the judicial process is equally applicable in the community. Serving on the Board of Directors for the Old Mandeville Business Association (OMBA), Tchefuncta Club Estates, and the New Heights, as well as a member of the St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce, Madisonville Chamber of Commerce and Covington Business Association are just a few ways he’s able to contribute.

Allison was also elected to a seat of the Republican Parish Executive Committee of St. Tammany, on which he currently serves as Chair, representing ideals he says are absolutely worth fighting for. The conservative principles of transparency, fiscal accountability and preservation of the moral character of the Northshore community are facets he brings to his volunteer roles in Board leadership.

“It’s more than just giving back to the community,” he says. “It’s

about making sure the community we enjoy now is the same or even better 20 years from now.”

Having arrived in Hammond in the fall of 2005 (yes, that semester!) to attend Southeastern Louisiana University, he has been a resident of the Northshore ever since he “met a girl from Covington.” Allison’s family belongs to First Baptist Church where he and his wife Nicole are raising their three children with a sincere and genuine faith in God.

He’s active with the SLU Alumni Association and supports his alma mater through advertising donations and involvement.

“The Northshore is more than just where I live,” Allison says. “It’s where I hold relationships built on trust with my clients and the community at large.”

Being engaged with community organizations affords him the opportunity to hear fresh ideas and help formulate new business ventures. He says networking is a vital building block for the legal profession.

“I like entrepreneurial people and ideas,” he adds. “I’ve been blessed to be part of business ventures that stemmed from relationships gained through my community involvement.”

However, his investment in the Northshore extends beyond investing his time and talent to participate in activities and events such as the OMBA’s two annual Sip & Stroll events and the upcoming Wide Water Festival (the Northshore’s much cooler version of Jazz Fest) on Nov. 1, all of which he highly recommends.

He has personally invested in local business ventures and local real estate. He takes particular pride in renovations to historic properties such as his downtown Covington office, which is listed on National Register of Historic Places.

“I’m definitely passionate about preserving the historic charm of buildings,” he says while pointing out the grain of the thin red oak floor planks intended to match the building’s original floors. “We had the chair rail bevels cut to match the traditional architecture and design

features of a home constructed in the early 1900s.”

His attraction to preserving the positive elements of the past applies to the Northshore political scene, too, especially the judicial bench.

“Being invested in the community as a local attorney also calls for being invested in judicial campaigns,” says Allison. “I am very proud of the proactive, pro-business and ethical judges who serve St. Tammany. It’s important to maintain the great caliber of bench membership we have.

That’s why political elections are also part of my passion.”

A graduate of SLU and Loyola Law School, Allison is licensed to practice in all state courts of Louisiana, including all appellate courts and the Louisiana Supreme Court. He is also licensed to practice in the United States District Courts for the Eastern, Middle, and Western districts of Louisiana as well as the United States Court of Appeal for the Fifth Circuit.  He is a current and active member of the Louisiana State Bar Association, 22nd JDC Bar Association, 21st JDC Bar Association, the 24th JDC Bar Association, the Federal Bar Association, and Louisiana Association for Justice.

While you can commonly find him at his law firm or with his family, he's just as likely to be out at community events, activities and fundraisers, building and strengthening relationships.

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Triple board-certified in phlebology, general surgery, and cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, vein specialist Dr. Randall Juleff leads La Bella Vita Laser and Vein Center, located in Mandeville and Metairie, Louisiana. Committed to providing personalized attention and customized treatments in a comfortable environment, Dr. Juleff and his team offer personalized diagnosis and treatment for the full range of vascular conditions, including venous insufficiency, spider veins, and varicose veins, and associated symptoms like leg swelling, muscle cramping, and restless leg syndrome.

La Bella Vita Laser and Vein Center offers a wide array of contemporary vein treatment options to patients. Dr. Juleff is extensively experienced in the latest vein care modalities for improving outward appearance and treating the root cause of annoying and sometimes debilitating vein issues. Vein care is a technology-driven field, so Dr. Juleff invests in continuous education and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure he can provide the best possible treatments to address his patients’ needs and improve their vascular health.

Treatment includes both minimally invasive procedures and conservative therapies, either alone or in combination, to suit each patient’s unique needs. While you can practice conservative treatments, highly effective outpatient procedures are performed in our vein treatment center under local anesthesia, ensuring utmost comfort and care.

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Our vein clinic specializes in treating the full spectrum of vein disease. From the tiniest case of spider veins to the most debilitating complications of chronic venous insufficiency, our highly educated and experienced staff can provide the assistance needed. We are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality care possible. Our level of patient satisfaction is unsurpassed.

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DJ Dizzi

DIzzi’s always belonged to the hours most people waste.. the after midnight pulse, the 5AM stillness. That overlap where nightlife and sunrise kiss. While most people pick a lane, Dizzi lives on the median. He can DJ a packed room until bodies drip with sweat, then chase a solitary sunrise with a camera as if the night never happened. Sleep is optional. Curiosity isn’t.

Before followers and algorithms, there was a 14 year old kid, two turntables, and a best friend who tagged “DIZZI D” on a coffin case like a prophecy. No blueprint. Just instinct.

Dizzi came up during a different era of southern Louisiana nightlife.. Rock n Blues Cafe, Urban Hustle, Republic in its prime. From the 985 to the 504 and almost everywhere in between, he watched scenes evolve and learned that culture survives through reinvention.

Photography never competed with music. It completed it. Behind the camera, he trades attention for observation, finding peace where it’s empty. Quiet.

I call his current chapter The Come Back. Not because he disappeared, but because every reinvention has brought him closer to himself.

Shelby Hampton

Shelby’s DryClean Delivery Service

I have always been taught that service to others is the correct way to approach life. What we do to make life easier and more accessible for the folks we live with will always be applauded and rewarded. I started my delivery service in 2010 with this mindset. My delivery service has grown into a successful business. It allows me to meet my neighbors, preform a service for them, and make their lives easier and more productive in other areas of their lives. It’s an honest way to support my family without the grind that retail business requires. I am the best option for many busy families who need to dress well in order to succeed. I save them time, the most valuable thing in a busy family household. Please call me if I can make your life easier and more enjoyable, thanks, Shelby

“You Can Take on the World”

How Kyle Roberts Found That for Himself First

WRITTEN BY HEIDI HEYNS

He was 19 years old, a kid working fulltime and going to LSU, when his boss told him to take a day off. So, he called his buddy, and they drove to Biloxi just to hang out. A group of strangers saw their LSU gear, struck up a conversation, and invited them back to a family fishing camp in Bay St. Louis. Kyle had been there maybe 15 minutes when he stepped onto the upstairs porch and leaned against the railing.

The railing was nailed into rotten wood. It immediately gave way. Suddenly, Kyle saw the ground coming at him and thought — just for a split second — “it’s not that far. I’ll be ok." He landed on St. Augustine grass in a tight V-shape. His T10 vertebrae exploded, crushing his spinal cord. Kyle Roberts had become a

complete paraplegic at 19 years old.

He was so combative at the hospital that doctors had to artificially induce a coma. He was comatose for two weeks. His body endured more than seventeen hours of surgery and seven blood transfusions. When Kyle finally awoke, tubes still in his throat, his dad leaned in close and said he had something to tell him. Kyle just stopped him with a hand gesture. He pointed at his legs and made a negative swipe. His dad asked, "How do you know?" Kyle asked for a pen and paper. He wrote: “I know. And now I'll never be as good a dad as you." His father lost it! "You think my legs make me a good father?!," he flashed. And there it was. That was the moment. It was not the accident, nor the surgery, but that exchange in a hospital

room with tubes in his throat is where Kyle Roberts' life began.

His mother spent the next two years by his side, she was there eighteen hours a day. His dad coped the only way he knew how — by working, preparing, and worrying about the financial unknown ahead. His mom just showed up every single day. Once Kyle got steady in the wheelchair, he enrolled at Southeastern Louisiana University and found the recreation center. He was a gym rat before the accident and needed somewhere to put his aggression and process everything he was holding inside. He did not have a mentor. Social media did not exist yet. So, he would sit in the recreation center and watch other people move. He sought to figure out how to

adapt what he saw.

A man named Brad Borland, the Administration Manager, noticed Kyle sitting there, not doing much. He walked over and said, “just ask me, I'll help you." Brad was a bodybuilder. He started working with Kyle, and as Kyle's body began to change, Brad told him about wheelchair bodybuilding. Kyle said no. He said he came to the gym to train ladies. But, Brad pushed. Kyle went with him to watch a show. He saw three guys on stage and was stunned by how they looked. He wheeled himself over to them afterward and said: “Next time you get on that stage, I'm going to beat you.”

And Kyle won his first show — novice, open lightweight, and the overall. The bug caught him hard. He spent eight years chasing a pro card. In 2012, he turned professional.

These days Kyle Roberts has retired from competition and runs Krewe Fitness in Covington, a gym he had been quietly preparing for his entire adult life. While he was traveling the country as a contracted coaching consultant, he was also filling three storage units with equipment. His wife knew. Nobody else did. His wife and his dad called him a chicken for not pulling the trigger on opening his own place. The day they said that he got in his car, drove around

Covington, found a former Ford dealership showroom on Main Street, and signed the lease. He had two months and three storage units full of equipment. He opened Krewe Fitness on August 29, 2022, the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.

It felt to him like Covington had chosen him as much as he had chosen it. "It felt like home," he says. And he noticed that, unlike Mandeville and Madisonville, "The people here did not have access to really good coaching."  He wanted to change that.

Here's what surprises people: 88% of Kyle's members are women. He is a retired professional wheelchair bodybuilder, and his gym

is filled almost entirely with women some of whom come in insecure and leave feeling unstoppable. "The gym carries over into everyday life," he says. "You feel the confidence to ask for a promotion. To tell your husband or wife how you really feel. To make the first move. To get a new job. "He talks about the gym as the one place where different religions, different politics, different everything — all walk through the same door for the exact same reason. To be better. “And the weights," he says, “never change. Never judge. Never leave. It's the only thing in your life that you can truly beat the sh*t out of, and it'll look at you and say, 'I'll see you tomorrow'."

When I asked Kyle what he wants men specifically to take away from his story, he did not hesitate. "Let their ego and guard down. Men carry insecurity like it's a freaking cancer. It’s okay to be defeated. It's okay to fail. Coming back and trying again — that's not failure. That's success."

And what's the hardest thing about his life right now — not 2004, but right now? "Letting go of control."

And what's the part of the dream he’s still chasing? He smiled. "This one was easy! Kids."

Krewe Fitness is located in Covington, Louisiana. Find them at krewefitnesscovington.

Outstanding Veterinarians

In our upcoming summer issue we will be feature some of the outstanding veterinarians that are available here in our community. Along with information and tips on caring for your four-legged friends. So be sure to pick up a Sophisticated Woman Magazine to see all the great stories and ideas that it has to offer.

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The St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2026 National Civics Bee’s Regional Competition in Covington on May 4, 2026, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the National Civics Bee is an annual nonpartisan civics competition for middle school students.

“Each year, the National Civics Bee reminds us how much promise and talent exists in communities across the country. Students step up with thoughtful solutions, bold ideas and a willingness to participate—exactly the qualities our democracy and workforce need. We are proud to support a program that strengthens civic knowledge and skills for all young people and helps build the foundation for a stronger future.” said Hilary Crow, Vice President, Civics, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

Students across the Northshore submitted essays on issues in their communities with the top students selected to compete in this Regional Competition, a live event featuring two rounds of civics quiz questions followed by a Q&A in which students discussed their proposals for improving their communities. Henry Schneidau from St. Margaret Mary Catholic School in Slidell took first place, followed by Carolyn McCormick from Monteleone Junior High School in Mandeville and Kaysen Barlow from St. Tammany Junior High School in Slidell for second and third places, respectively. The judges for this year’s competition were Rick Dennie, Agent with New York Life Insurance; Lauren Navarre, COO/CFO with Arena Collective; and Bob Warren, Reporter and Editor with The Times-Picayune and Nola.com.

The first-place winner received a $500 cash prize, tablet and trophy and will advance—along with the other top finalists—to the state competition. The second and third-place winners received $250 and $125 in cash prices, respectively, along with a tablet and trophy. All participants received a certificate. The top state winners will receive various prizes, up to $1,000.

National Civics Bee

REGIONAL COMPETITION HOSTED BY THE ST. TAMMANY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The state’s first-place winner will earn a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Championship in the Fall of 2026, where they can win a grand prize of a $100,000 contribution to an education savings plan. The second-place finalist will receive $25,000, and the third-place National finalist will receive $15,000.

The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry will host the National Civics Bee Louisiana State Finals on June 27, 2026, in Shreveport.

For more information on the National Civics Bee, visit StTammanyChamber.org/civicsbee. The student essay application portal for the 2027 National Civics Bee competition opens in September 2026.

WRITTEN BY JAN WINDHORST

“I never expected to be in a war zone.” When Dr. Michael Sprague recounts his recent travel adventure, he is not speaking figuratively of a messy area of town or an unexpected altercation with locals. He is describing a life-threatening journey through war-torn Israel as explosions erupted overhead for days on end as the tour group, he was leading sought to escape to safety. Michael, as he prefers to be called, served as a pastor in the Washington DC area for fifteen years before beginning his eleven-year tenure as Senior Pastor at Trinity Church in Covington. Today, he serves as the Louisiana State Chaplain with the Capitol Commission and leads regular pilgrimages to the Holy Land. “I’ve had to postpone a few trips due to Covid and war in the past, but I’m

committed to sharing the life-changing experience of visiting the Holy Land.”

For this trip, Michael had assembled a group of 44, almost all of whom had military backgrounds – an attribute that would prove fortuitous in navigating the trials ahead. On February 22nd, looking forward to leading an unparalleled spiritual experience, Michael shared his excitement via a Facebook post, “Lord willing, our team is flying to Israel at 11:30 pm tonight. There is no other place on Planet Earth quite like it. I invite you to travel along with me here on Facebook. I will post daily the sights, sounds and experiences of walking in the footsteps of Jesus and gleaning practical application to living out biblical truth in our times . . . Our goal is not only to go to the Holy Land but to know

God.” Little did the enthusiastic group know the lessons learned would be more profound than they could ever imagine.

Michael recalls the first few days of the trip went as planned, traveling around the Mediterranean Sea visiting towns and then traveling up to Galilee. He was able to preach and teach throughout, all the more meaningful as done on hallowed ground. Sharing photos and thoughts in his online diary, one can feel the depth of his experience, “Israel Day 3. Boat ride on the Sea of Galilee was spectacular and very moving. NO STORM . . . Wow! Twelve Jordan River baptisms, dinner out with a Jewish family, and the Sermon on the Mount. We walked where Jesus walked in the hills and valleys. Such a small country, but with snowcapped mountains, desert, wilderness, lakes, rivers, the Dead Sea, rolling hills, fertile soil and the Mediterranean Sea. It seems like the fingerprints of God are everywhere. Very grateful to spend this time with 44 friends.”

But the experience of peace in Galilee would be the calm before the storm brewing for the second half of the trip. Michael recalls the turn of events that began early on the morning of February 28, “The sirens sounded, our phones

blew up with emergency alerts, roosters cried out, the winds came, and the missiles zeroed in. We went from typical American sight-seeing tourists to witnesses of war shuffling to the bomb shelter under our Jerusalem hotel. It’s telling of what the people of Israel must endure that they need this kind of protection system. When a missile leaves Iran, it takes 10 minutes to get to Israel. You have that time to get to shelter, and then a minute before, you’re

alerted if it’s going to hit close to you. After 10 minutes, if you’re not dead, they’ve either taken the missile out, or it hit somewhere else. Then everyone goes back to what they were doing. We did that six times the first night and 20 times over the next three and a half days. But for the people who live there, this is their life. Both men and women must serve in the military, and everyone pulls together to do what must be done. Our group was awed by

their perseverance and fortitude, but they’re still human. Our tour guide shared that when she takes her seven-year-old to restaurants, his first question is, ‘Where’s the bomb shelter.’ She said sometimes she can’t help but cry out, ‘Why does the whole world hate us?’ When we offered our love and prayers to her and others we met, they wholeheartedly thanked us for being there and caring.”

The next few days were a stressful series of maneuvers to escape the ongoing assault of missiles, but throughout, Michael stayed true

“I’ll

Along with his faith, Michael understood they were in real danger that demanded wisdom and assistance. “Amidst being in the missile strike zone, air space shut downs and rampant terrorism, we had an incredible tour company that put together their own war room to devise an evacuation plan with armed security, shadow vehicles, and access to bomb shelters. It took a few days to get checkpoint passes and plane tickets with everybody in the area wanting to leave, but the plan was to drive to Cairo, then fly out. Easier said than done, but worship is a weapon. I’ve been in special churches with rehearsed music and fancy electronics but being in a bomb shelter with everyone singing How Great Thou Art is the greatest sound I’ve ever heard. I’ll never forget it. Our group turned into disciples. The curriculum was the war, and the lesson we needed to learn was to walk in faith. People from many nations were scared to death in the shelters with us. Over and over our group displayed courage that was contagious. As we prayed and sang, people would gravitate to us, and we chose to share love and gratitude over fear and complaining.”

Michael describes the evacuation as grueling, but says he lead by focusing on the group’s safety over comfort. “To avoid terror

attacks, we took a zig-zag route miles and miles out of the way resulting in a 19-hour bus ride in the same area of the wilderness where the Children of Israel wandered. On the way out, we stopped for a minute to see the Dome of the Rock and the walls of Jerusalem, but sirens had us hightailing it to a hotel shelter on the Mount of Olives looking down at the Garden of Gethsemane. We waited 10 minutes, got the all clear, moved back to the bus and the sirens went off again. This time, all 44 of us sheltered in nearby underground restrooms. The missiles came right over us and exploded in the air – that was our closest call. What followed was a scary, dangerous ride through the middle of nowhere with no food, few bathroom breaks and a having to stop to fix a flat tire, but we made it to the airport. Several hours later after security checks and waiting, we boarded the plane for home.”  Despite it all, the group’s military experience and faith transformed a life-threatening ordeal into ten life-affirming lessons that Michael feels called to share. “One: Let faith allow you to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Two: Courage is contagious. Share it. Three: Love is our weapon. It can protect us and others. Four: You never know Jesus is all you need, until Jesus is all you’ve

got, and then you find out experientially, Jesus is all you need. Five: The size of your faith is determined by the size of your God. Big God - big faith. Small God - small faith. Without faith we are sunk because without faith it is impossible to please Him. Six: God’s plan is usually not a straight line but a zigzag. You have a choice to complain or not when wandering in the wilderness. We won’t always get great circumstances, but the key is choosing gratitude. Seven: There is strength in community. No one should stand alone. Eight: Practice and build your spirituality. Our Inner World doesn’t make us crisis proof but crisis ready. The question is not whether we’ll face a crisis but whether we have developed the inner resources to navigate it with grace and wisdom when it arrives. Nine: Worship is a weapon. It has the power to slay worry and be the antidote for anxiety. Ten: Wisdom complements courage. When real danger is present, appropriate concern is demanded. Rely on your community to inform your decisions and actions.”

Michael reports that everyone in the group valued the experience, wants to go back, and that plans are already in the making for his next Holy Land tour. “Our perspective will never be the same. To experience war at

ground zero – it was a different kind of lesson where we learned about trust, faith, and caring about people who must endure things beyond what we can imagine. In the midst of the danger, one of the group posted that everyone was thankful to be there for the experience and to get a better understanding of what the people there go through. Most people in the West have no idea what it is like to live in

those conditions. But you don’t have to be in a war zone to have life throw curve balls at you. Whether it’s health, relationships, finances, everyone has challenging times. I hope the lessons learned in Israel will be transferable to people in their everyday lives. I pray that we keep our eyes on the Lord and can depend on each other for courage and love and maintain faith, even in fear and the worst of times.”

Matthew Knick plays in the dirt for a living. He spends most of his time trying to stay out of the way of his talented team that has created a white-gloved landscaping firm with a reputation for its community impact as much as precision plant placement and incomparable curb appeal.

Knick is open about the challenges and lessons that shaped his early years. He is 15 years sober today. Those experiences helped form the values that guide him today and stand in contrast to the life he now shares with his wife Lauren, their three sons, Carter (12), Tanner (10), and Hunter (8), as well as the many foster children they have welcomed into their home over the years. Together, they are committed to creating a family-centered life rooted in faith, service, and community. He also credits the extended WillowGrove team for helping build a culture focused on caring for people and making a positive impact.

Before he got his start transforming the lawns and landscapes of St. Tammany, he faced a difficult season marked by addiction while living in Minneapolis, Minnesota. That chapter of his life became a profound turning point, leading him to reflect on the path he was on and the person he wanted to become.

“Up until then I was living for me and only me,” he said. “I was completely selfish with the gifts God had given me. I decided I wanted to give up the masks I had been wearing my entire life and embrace my true identity –one in which I have the privilege of living, empowered daily by God and his gifts.”

That period of self-reflection ultimately inspired a new direction in his life, one grounded in faith, purpose, and a desire to use his talents to serve others.

Knick’s story is impressive not only for its overcoming addiction life lesson, but also for the business model it inspired. After learning the rigors of landscaping literally from the ground up and having worked his way up within several successful companies in the Midwest where he

met his future wife, he and Lauren opted to return to St. Tammany to raise their growing family.

Although an opportunity in Florida offered financial security, the Knicks felt called to return to St. Tammany and build something different. The decision was not about chasing more money; it was about creating a company culture that aligned with their faith, their family, and the kind of team they hoped to lead. With Lauren’s support and belief in the vision, they stepped away from security and began WillowGrove with no guarantee other than faith, hard work, and a desire to serve people well.

Within two years, WillowGrove had reached $1 million in revenue, a feat only achieved by less than 1 percent of landscaping companies at the time. The team of five initial workers now consists of 50. With several on 9-month work visas, Knick inspires them to work for all the right reasons; so they can be positive role models for their families, so they can provide for themselves and so they can contribute to the communities in which they hope to one day permanently reside.

WillowGrove’s business philosophy goes beyond numbers in the bank account. Knick prefers to count satisfied clients and community impact instead. He and his team are intentional about putting the “service” into their “service industry” profession.

“Profit is a by-product of our impact,” he said. “The work outcomes matter, but how the work is done matters even more.”

Giving back is a hallmark of the WillowGrove business philosophy. In fact, the first monthly payment of every new maintenance client goes into a charitable giving account to be used for community support initiatives.

“Generosity is the foundation of our business

Matthew Knick

MAKING A CLEAN LIVING 'PLAYING IN THE DIRT'

WRITTEN BY ERIN MOORE COWSER PHOTOS BY PAIGE HENDERSON/BELLUS PHOTOGRAPHY

model: Not leftovers once the bills are paid,” he states matter-of-factly. “I spent a lot of time taking from the community. Now I am passionate about giving back to it.”

This people over profits mentality applies across-the-board to WillowGrove’s corporate culture. Benefits for employees include medical insurance, retirement options, paid time off and a 40-hour work week that stays 40 hours.

Back when he was learning the ropes of the

landscaping business, there were more than a few companies that demanded 60-70-hour work weeks from their crews. It’s important to Knick that he can be up front with his team members, so they know exactly what is expected of them when on the clock.

“You don’t have to sell your soul to the ‘hamster wheel’ of work in order to succeed,” he said. “It’s just as important to have a giving heart.”

“When we agree to serve a client, we want it to feel like a true partnership,” Knick added. “We ask our clients to value their landscape as much as we do, because the best results come from shared trust, clear expectations, and mutual care for the property.”

So what’s next for the Knick family and WillowGrove Landscape?

Continued emphasis on intentionality and integrity.

Matthew said, “We want people to see that a business can be successful while still putting people first, giving generously, creating opportunity for team members, and making a meaningful impact in the community.”

Citrus Berry Sour

2 oz vodka or gin

1 oz cranberry juice

3/4 oz fresh lemon juice

1/2 oz simple syrup

1 egg white (or 1 tbsp aquafaba for a vegan option)

Ice cubes

Orange peel, for garnish

Add the vodka, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white to a cocktail shaker. Shake without ice for 15 seconds to create a smooth foam, then add ice and shake again until well chilled. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a curled orange peel.

Dad's Perfect Kebobs

Serves 4

1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin or steak, cut into cubes

2 bell peppers (red and yellow), cut into chunks

1 small red onion, cut into wedges

8–10 mushrooms

2 tbsp olive oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and black pepper, to taste Wooden or metal skewers

In a bowl, toss the beef with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Thread the beef and vegetables alternately onto skewers. Grill or cook on a hot grill pan for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beef is browned and the vegetables are lightly charred. Serve hot with rice, salad, or flatbread.

Having a Ball

THE WINNING ATTITUDE OF COACH DANNY TULLIS

For some people, volleyball is a game to be enjoyed on a sunny beach amongst friends. In junior highs, high schools and universities around the world, it Is a team sport, celebrated with championship games and, for the best of the best, Olympic competitions. But, for Coach Danny Tullis, it is much more than a game or a competitive sport. Volleyball is in his DNA.

The Louisiana native’s commitment to the game is infectious. He met his wife of 25 years, Diana, when he was refereeing an adult volleyball league game in which she was one of the players. The couple’s children also share the passion, with each having played on teams that he has coached. And their limited spare time is family time, spent

WRITTEN BY KIM BERGERON

“coaching, playing or watching volleyball.”

Clearly, for this family, volleyball is life. The family creed is “God, family and volleyball.”

Danny’s love for volleyball was ignited when he was in junior high school when he recognized that he was “abnormally good at the sport.” He says it was fun to play the game with his friends knowing that he had that competitive edge. His junior high school English teacher, Fred Cooper, recognized Danny’s gifts and encouraged him to consider a career in teaching. Cooper also happened to be the school’s volleyball coach and undoubtedly saw the potential for a great coach when he made that recommendation to his student. While a sophomore in high school,

Danny returned to his junior high school to assist Coach Cooper with the volleyball team. He then began refereeing and started coaching. Neither the teacher nor the student anticipated that the seeds planted in those junior high years would sprout into an extraordinary and remarkably fulfilling career. Danny started club volleyball and assisted one year at Northshore High, then moved on to coaching at Salmen. He has served as head coach ever since, leading teams at Fontainebleau High School in Mandeville Pope John Paul II, and Slidell High.

It was at Fontainebleau that he embraced victory at the state championship game in 2011, a first for both the coach and team. He would go

on to win an additional five state titles at Pope John Paul II and back-to-back state titles at Slidell High, for a total of eight, with an impressive lifetime record of 796 wins to 177 losses. He’ll soon be heading to Mandeville High School to serve as head coach of the Skippers volleyball team, joining his daughter, Ansley, who is the team’s assistant coach. This will mark the first time that the two collaborate as coaches.

Though he had coached his daughters at Pope John Paul II, Ansley says that the opportunity to work with her father is an incredible privilege, and she remains in awe of all that he has achieved. Her sister Ali, a student at SLU, has previously coached with her father for two seasons when he was at Slidell High School. She says the father/daughter coaching dynamic was a bit different than the girls’ experiences when their father was their coach, as he was tough on the girls, pushing them to work harder and be better.

Brothers Collin and Christian have won a club national championship game, carrying on the family tradition of winning. Under his father coaching, Collin also won two AAU14 national championships. Now sixteen, he is a high-level volleyball player participating with USA

Volleyball’s National Team Development Program, an elite training and competition program which is often considered a preparatory gateway to the Olympics. He has his sights set on college in California. Sadly, in 2022, the family mourned the tragic loss of Christian in a car accident when he was only sixteen years old. At the time, he was in talks with Penn State, exploring the possibilities of joining the university’s volleyball team.

“Christian was our peacemaker, such a sweet kid,” says Danny. “He was the best of us, and he was loved by everyone he met. I can’t believe how much I miss him.”

Danny credits Diana’s faith as the anchor that brought the family though that most difficult time, a period in which he said simply existing was a difficult task. Though the accident rocked his family to the core and changed the way they viewed everything in life, Diana never faltered, remaining steadfast in her faith and her belief that God would

guide them through the challenges.

Shortly after their son’s passing, Diana created the Christian Tullis Memorial Foundation which now provides annual scholarships and sponsorships to students who share Christian’s values and love of sports and faith. The scholarships are

funded in part, quite appropriately, by an annual volleyball tournament.

Through all the trials and tribulations, losses, and victories, Danny has not only taught his children and his students, but he has also learned many lessons, and he credits his success with all of those who enhanced his life with wisdom and invaluable insights. He says his mother always told him that he could be anything he wanted to be and that kindness defined the person. His wife taught him that with God, all things are possible. His team players have taught him that everyone has something different going on in life and that as a coach, the more empathetic he can be toward his players, the more they will respond to him and respect the things that he tells them, even with issues that are not related to the sport or the team. Collectively, all the moments his mother, his wife, his children and his players have taught him toward being a better human being have made him a better husband, father, and coach.

Danny states that the most rewarding part of his career has been watching a lot of the children

that he coached getting involved in coaching themselves, and many have acquired scholarships that enabled them to go to college for free. He remains grateful to have played a part in his students’ journeys.

“In my opinion, coaching is so much about the relationships you build with the young people with whom you work,” he emphasizes. “The most valuable advice I have received as a coach is to pay attention to each person as an individual, not just as a member of the team and what they can do on the court. I’ve also learned that it’s important to encourage the kids to celebrate their victories, but that as their coach, I am ultimately the person responsible for the defeats. My goal remains to teach all of them to be better teammates and for each of them to be a better person for the person next to them.”

In the end, he says, the ultimate goal is so much bigger than winning on the volleyball court. It’s about winning at life. He’s honored to help lead the way, one victory, one loss, one lesson at a time.

On Friday, May 15th, we proudly celebrated 27 years of Enterprising Women, a milestone rooted in a vision started by Joanne Gallinghouse, founder of Sophisticated Woman Magazine. In 1993, Joanne purchased The Sophisticated Shopper, a newspaper-style publication in business since 1985. By 1999, she transformed it into the glossy magazine we know today, and in 2004, she launched the Northshore’s Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

Our very first Enterprising Women cover featured Ann Jameson & Angele Darling of Coffee Rani. Today, more than two decades

later, we continue honoring Joanne’s mission: to uplift and celebrate the achievements of extraordinary women across St. Tammany and Tangipahoa parishes.

A heartfelt thank you to our emcee, Brittany Picolo-Ramos, a native New Orleanian and the leader of the Picolo Group at Keller Williams Realty New Orleans, and star of HGTV’s “Selling the Big Easy”, we thank her so much for her wonderful support making this an enjoyable event for all.

Our keynote speaker, Katie Moore of WWL-TV Channel 4, shared a few life stories

and one investigative story that really helped bring some closure and justice for a grieving mother. We also recognized Gina Cherry founder of The Bionic Babes Dancers of Hope, as our 2026 Hats Off Luncheon beneficiary. Thanks to your generosity, we raised $4,000 to support women on their cancer recovery journey with a sisterhood of giving back.

We were proud to honor this year’s Enterprising Women cover stars and cap off the celebration by naming Brandi Gill McAndrew Owner of Aesthetic Haus our 2025 Enterprising Woman of the Year.

2025 Enterprising Women Covers:

January/February 2025

Brandi Gill McAndrew, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

May 2025 - Maryanna Leonard

May 2025 - Jamie Cure

June 2025 - Blaze Burkenstock, PA-C

July/August 2025 - Lisa Hughes

September/October 2025

Lizette Alvarado, FNP-C

November/December 2025 - Jennifer Carter

When Joanne began this journey, some doubted it would last. They thought we’d run out of inspiring women to feature. But 27 years later, we know better—our community is full of powerful stories still unfolding.

To all who have supported us along the way—thank you. We are just getting started. Let’s keep celebrating, uplifting, and inspiring women for years to come.

With gratitude and blessings to all who joined us,

Thank you to Our Sponsors!

Fedora Sponsor

Derby Sponsors

Cloche Sponsors

Arena Collective

Voelkel McWilliams Construction

State Rep. Brian Glorioso

Renasant Bank

Egan Wellness

Scientifically Natural

Strong Thompson Wealth Management

Speedway Printing

State Rep. Stephanie Berault

State Rep. Kim Carver

Tammy Nick Attorney at Law

Fascinator Sponsors

Villere Florist

ChacuTori

Ellie Shroder

Ritual Spa and Salon

Weiler Plastic Surgery

Michele Echols

Tracy Powell

Michael Cochran

Luke Lancaster

Giuliana Mandina’s Art

Leblon Boutique

The Mandeville Republican Women’s Club sponsored an America 250 Poster Contest to increase student awareness and engagement in celebrating 250 years of American history. Schools throughout Mandeville were invited to participate. Students were asked to create posters highlighting the events, individuals, and ideals from 250 years of American history that have inspired and influenced them the most. The following are the winners from the three divisions.

3rd – 5th Grade Division

Miles Moeller 1st Place

Pontchartrain Elementary

6th – 8th Grade Division

Evangeline Roberts 1st Place

Fontainebleau Jr. High

9th – 12th Division

Anner Santos 1st Place

Fontainebleau High School

Team 2992: Building More Than Robots on the Northshore

How Mandeville’s Robotics Team is Inspiring the Next Generation — Especially Girls in STEM

WRITTEN BY JULIE DIXON

In a workshop filled with tools, wires, laptops, and late-night determination, students on Mandeville’s Robotics Team 2992 are doing far more than building robots. They are building confidence, leadership, teamwork, and a future where more young women see themselves in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Known as the S.S. Prometheus, Team 2992 has become a respected force in Louisiana robotics, combining technical excellence with a strong commitment to community outreach and student development. While competitions showcase engineering skill and strategy, the real story behind the team is about opportunity — creating a space where students discover

talents they never knew they had.

One of the team’s most impactful contributions to the region is the annual Northshore Knockout sponsored by Chevron, an offseason robotics competition that brings together teams from across the Gulf South. What began

as a robotics event has evolved into something much larger: a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and STEM education on the Northshore.

The event’s growing impact on the community was further recognized when St. Tammany Parish officially proclaimed the third Saturday in July as Robotics and STEM Awareness Day, highlighting the importance of programs that inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The proclamation reflects how deeply robotics education has become woven into the future vision of the Northshore community.

Unlike traditional athletic competitions, robotics events blend engineering with creativity and teamwork. Students design, build, wire, program, troubleshoot, and drive robots under intense time constraints. They also manage branding, fundraising, media, logistics, and public outreach. At Northshore Knockout, spectators quickly realize these students are not just learning robotics. They are learning how to lead.

Beyond competitions, Team 2992 is also investing in the next generation through its robotics and STEM summer camp programs. These camps introduce younger students to engineering, coding, problem-solving, and teamwork in an exciting and approachable environment. Campers gain hands-on

experience building and programming, while learning that STEM can be creative, collaborative, and fun.

The camps have become especially meaningful for young girls who may not yet see themselves represented in technical spaces. By creating an encouraging atmosphere led by older student mentors, Team 2992 helps younger students build confidence early. For many campers, it is their first experience realizing they are capable of designing, building, and solving complex challenges themselves.

For the young women on Team 2992, the experience is equally transformative. Girls in STEM fields still face challenges, including underrepresentation and lingering stereotypes about who “belongs” in engineering and technology spaces. Team 2992 is actively changing that narrative. Female students on the team take on roles as programmers, mechanical designers, electrical specialists, strategists, media leaders, and team captains. They are visible, capable, and respected contributors in every area of the organization.

The impact reaches beyond competition trophies.

When younger girls walk into Northshore Knockout or attend a Team 2992 summer camp and see young women confidently running pit operations, repairing robots, speaking with judges, teaching campers, or leading alliance strategy discussions, it changes perceptions.

Representation matters. Seeing someone who looks like you succeeding in a technical environment can make intimidating career paths suddenly feel possible.

Mentors and volunteers within Team 2992 emphasize that robotics is not just for students who already consider themselves “tech kids.” The program welcomes artists, writers, public speakers, organizers, and problem-solvers of every kind. Robotics teaches students how to think critically, adapt under pressure, and work collaboratively, which are skills that extend far beyond engineering careers.

The team’s commitment to STEM outreach also strengthens the local community. Events like Northshore Knockout and the team’s summer camps bring together schools, families, businesses, sponsors, and educators who share a common goal: investing in the future of young people. Local partnerships help provide

students access to real-world experiences and mentorship opportunities that many may not otherwise encounter.

In an era where industries increasingly depend on innovation and technology, programs like Team 2992 are helping prepare students for the future while keeping that future rooted in community values. The team reflects the spirit of the Northshore itself: hardworking, collaborative, resilient, and deeply invested in supporting the next generation.

For the students of Team 2992, success is measured in more than banners or awards. It is found in the shy freshman who discovers confidence behind a toolbox, the student who learns leadership under pressure, and the young girl who realizes engineering might be a place where she belongs.

Every robot built by Team 2992 tells a story of perseverance and teamwork. But perhaps the team’s greatest creation is something less visible: a growing culture where students — especially girls in STEM — are empowered to dream bigger than they ever thought possible.

Follow the team on Facebook Mandeville Robotics Team 2992.  www.mandevillerobotics.org

The Northlake Mandeville Rotary Club

Scholarship Banquet

The Northlake Mandeville Rotary Club has awarded a group of St. Tammany high school seniors scholarships that provide both a financial boost and ongoing support and encouragement throughout their college careers.

In addition to four $12,000 scholarships given last month, something the club does annually, they also awarded three $1,000 memorial scholarships.

Rotarians honored the students and distributed the scholarships during the Sunday with Scholarships banquet on April 26th at the Beau

$12,000 Scholars

Aubree Authur - Mandeville High SchoolArchitectural Studies - ULL. She is the Wilson and Jean Sexton Rotary Scholar.

Mia Adams - Mandeville High SchoolMass Communications/Advertising

Elizabeth Tissue - Fountainebleu  High School - Biomedical EngineeringMissississippi State

Annie Kate Simms - Mandeville High School - Business Management - Mississippi State

$1,000 Scholars

Alyssa Barr - Lakeshore High SchoolBiology/Pre-Med - Tulane. She is the Anthony and Hope Martin Memorial Scholar.

Ellie Pennison - Hannan High SchoolArchitecture - LSU. She is the Rudy Viener Memorial Scholar.

Jack Griffith - Mandeville High SchoolChemical Engineering - Rice University. He is the Grant Candies Memorial Scholar.

Chene Country Club in Mandeville.

Rotarian Doug Place said that what makes the Rotary scholarship stand out is that club members forge relationships with the recipients, who return to the banquet each year to report academic progress, personal milestones, or special activities and accomplishments. This year's Sunday with Scholars was a resounding success!! Thank you to all who worked hard to make the day so special. Thanks to each of you who sponsored and made the award of the scholarships possible.

RPWST Scholarship Awards

Outstanding Doctors

In our upcoming summer issue we will feature some of the outstanding doctors that are available here in our community. Our Outstanding Doctor section maybe the ideal venue to tell our audience what you offer that could help better their lives and longevity. If you would like to learn more information about being highlighted in this upcoming section, please call 985-893-7350 or email barbara@sophisticatedwoman.com.

Barbie’s Dream, LLC

200 Greenleaves Blvd., Mandeville, LA 70448

985-893-7350 or email barbara@sophisticatedwoman.com

This year’s scholarship banquet was a spectacular celebration of achievement, community spirit, and generosity. With 134 tickets sold and tremendous support from sponsors and attendees, the event once again demonstrated the community’s commitment to empowering young leaders. Thanks to this generosity, the organization will proudly award three $2,000 scholarships again next year.

The scholarship committee received 20 exceptional applications, each filled with impressive academic accomplishments, service records, and inspiring personal stories. Choosing only three recipients proved to be a difficult task, reflecting the remarkable talent of this year’s applicants. Ultimately, the organization was honored to present the Joy Sutton Scholarship to Anna Hamann of Northlake Christian, the Charlotte Hayes Scholarship to Jenna Sturdevant of Mandeville High School, and the Ann Barnes Scholarship to Lily Ronquillo of Lakeshore High School.

These outstanding young women have excelled academically while making meaningful contributions to their schools and communities. Their leadership, dedication, and passion for service embody the values at the heart of the scholarship program and honor the legacies of the trailblazing women for whom the awards are named. Guests were moved by the recipients’ stories and ambitions, each one demonstrating maturity, purpose, and a commitment to making a difference.

Adding depth to the evening, Susan Strain, Kristie Thomas, and Pat Farris shared the histories of Joy Sutton, Charlotte Hayes, and Ann Barnes. Their heartfelt presentations brought these pioneering women to life, connecting past accomplishments with the bright futures of today’s scholarship recipients.

The success of the banquet was made possible by the dedication of many individuals including Chair Kimberly Lambert, CoChair Mary Smith, Sponsorship Chair Daphne Misuraca, and judges Susan Willie, Caroline Theriot, Ellen O’Connell, Tracy Kreiger, and Amanda Martin. Their hard work ensured a meaningful and memorable celebration.

Thank you, again, to all of the outstanding supporters who make the scholarship program possible.

Al Aparicio

A LEGACY OF SERVICE

BY SANDRA SCALISE JUNEAU

For Albert “Al” Aparicio, his path to success is marked by both an unquenchable quest for excellence and the rewards of a giving spirit.

It was at Loyola University in New Orleans that his parents met.

His father, a native of Guatemala City, while studying Dentistry was introduced to New Orleanian, Alicia O’Rourke. They were married and returned to Guatemala. where in 1939, their son, Albert, Jr. was born.

When they returned to New Orleans for Dr. Aparicio to establish his Dental Practice, Albert, Jr. was just five years old, which afforded him the privilege of growing up in the easygoing ambiance of New Orleans in the 1940’s. There, grounded in Catholic education at St. Rita Grammer School near his uptown home, and later at Jesuit High School, Al was introduced to the Ignatian principles of “Serving God and neighbor with compassion, justice, and leadership.”

After his Honorable Discharge from the

U.S. Army, continuing his education at LSU and the University of New Orleans, Al began his business career in 1960 as a Teller at Hibernia National Bank. In 1962, he became Branch Manager for General Finance at Hibernia, a position he held until 1967.

In those busy years, during which his marriage in 1960 to Susan Ducasse brought them two daughters and one son, Al continued his Business Education at Tulane University. His entre into the insurance industry was through the Ducasse Insurance Agency, where he was Agency President until 1987. He then created the partnership firm, Aparicio, Walker and Selling, Inc., where he served as President until his retirement in 2010.

Despite the challenges of agency management, Al’s focus was always on family, using his business expertise in support of the schools his children attended. He has served the school boards of: Our Lady of Divine Providence; Archbishop Chapelle High School; Ursuline Academy; and Holy Rosary

School. At St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton Parish, he was Finance Committee Chairman and Annual Fair Committee Chairman and, in 1997, was selected to be Awarded by the Archdiocese of New Orleans with the prestigious,” Order of Saint Louis.”

Through the ministry of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Al was Board President of the “People Program of New Orleans,” which since its founding in 1974, serves the city’s senior population with enrichment programs for wellness and well-being. As President, Board of Directors, of the non-profit Nursing Home, Maison Hospitliere, he steered its development path until the facility’s closure following Hurricane Katrina.

Al Aparicio’s leadership in the insurance industry is marked by the many national and Louisiana positions he has held and the professional designations he has earned. During the 1980’s, he served on the educational training staff of both the Independent Insurance Agents and Professional Insurance Agents of Louisiana and served as Director and Past President of the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents.

As a practicing Property and Casualty Insurance Agent for over forty-four years, he served as a consultant to the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, the Ursuline Academy, and Columbia Property Management.  Mr. Aparicio was enlisted as an

Above: Susan Ducasse and Al Aparicio- Prom Night, 1959.

Below: Al Aparicio,2025 King, Mardi Gras Krewe of Harmony.

Below, left: Al Aparicio, US Army Specialist 4th Class (E-4).

expert witness in cases of insurance litigation and currently holds the professional designations of CIC - Certified Insurance Counselor and CRM - Certified Risk Manager.

For his generosity of spirit, Mr. Aparicio was recognized for his many projects and commitments to community. Having served the North Kenner Kiwanis as Board Member and Chairman of their Annual Golf Tournament, he was named

both “Rookie of the Year” and “Kiwanian of the Year” and was given the North Kenner Kiwanis “Hickson Award.” After several terms on the Board of the Kenner YMCA, he was conferred by the New Orleans Area YMCA as “Volunteer of the Year.”

Combining financial expertise with community service, Mr. Aparicio led the emerging Children’s Museum of St. Tammany Parish on its Board of Trustees and has served as Chief Financial Officer of both The Children’s Museum and the Northshore Food Bank.

After raising their three children, and following his retirement from the Insurance Industry, Susan and Al became residents in 2023 at St. Anthony’s Gardens in Covington. With Susan’s passing in 2024, it was from their sixty-oneyear, blessed-filled marriage that Al found graces of inner strength to continue his commitments to community.

In 2024, Al Aparicio was awarded by Governor Jeff Landry, the Louisiana Veterans Honor Medal, in appreciation for his Meritorious Service to our Nation.

At St. Anthony’s Gardens, Al is now President of the Resident Council, assists in planning life enrichment events as a Member of the Men’s Fellowship Club, was elected King of their 2025 Mardi Gras Ball, and serves as a volunteer bartender at weekly Happy Hour events.

For his granddaughters and great-grandchildren, what is most rewarding for Al Aparicio, despite recognition and awards, is the joy of knowing that his legacy of leadership and service has paved a path of compassion and justice for the world they will inherit.

Celebrating The Best!

This year was our 22nd year of Northshore’ Best!! Our readers take this very seriously and so do we, as they vote for the Best of… in many different categories, and we have some awesome winners!! Some have won over many years! This program was started by editor at the time, Francie Unger and Publisher Joanne Gallinghouse to recognize and honor local businesses. And we still do that today.

This year we added a few events to give even more recognition to our winners. We had 3 events between the two parishes to award the certificates for Northshore’s Best

to the winners.

The first was held at Whiskey Tavern in Covington for the West St. Tammany winners, the next one was in Tangipahoa at the Lighthouse Coastal Brasserie and last but not least, we held one at the Brass Monkey in Slidell for the East St. Tammany winners.

All the events were great, and the winners were able to enjoy a little food and spirits, while they mingled with other professionals and business winners. They were all nice events and I thank all these hosts for creating welcoming venues for our winners!!

Ribbon Cuttings

June Calendar

6th

Peelin for a Purpose Crawfish Cookoff Benefit

In Support of Ace Fabre, as he fights Childhood Cancer

11am-4pm Cash @ the gate or Venmo $20 for 12 &under, $35 Adults

Location: Memorial Park, 301 N. 6th St. Ponchatoula. All are invited to this Community family friendly cookoff event.

6th

Northshore Robotics: STEM Festival

9am-3pm Free Location: Reverend Peter Atkins’ Park, 701 N. Tyler St., Covington

The event is hosted by NorthShore Robotics and is designed to bring together students and families to celebrate STEM and showcase robotics. Join us for a high-energy, family-friendly event bringing hands-on robotics, engineering, and real-world learning to Covington. This isn’t just an event…It’s access. It’s opportunity. It’s a spark for the next generation.

6th

WYES Antiques Showcase

Flea Market Score, or Antique Gem? You might be sitting on a Treasure!

10am-1pm at WYES located at 916 Navarre Avenue in New Orleans.

General admission $20 Friend of (don’t have an item, but want to join in the fun & refreshments)

$45 General admission (2 items evaluated by an expert) $100 VIP (front of line access with 2 items)

7th

Piroque Races Bayou Liberty

Event by Foggy Waters Marina and Bayou Liberty Heritage Foundation

12- 7pm Launching from the banks of St. Genevieve Church Landing, 58025 Hwy 433Featuring live music, food trucks, beer, daiquiris, and one heck of a good time! Please stay tuned for this traditional family event back here on the bayou!

7th

Live After 5 Presents: New Orleans

Quarter Note

7-10pm Strawberry Parking lot 170 W. Hickory St., Ponchatoula

It is a free, family-friendly event where guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, support local restaurants/bars for food and drinks, and avoid glass containers.

12th, 13th

Tangipahoa Pro Rodeo & Music Fest Gates open at 5:33 Rodeo begins at 7:30 pm, Kids under 6 are Free. Advanced ticket $15 can be purchased at www. TangipahoaParishProRodeo.net, at the gate for $20. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance as box seats often sell out.

13th

Louisiana Deaf Festival 2026

Hosted by council of Organizations Serving the Deaf

9am-5pm At Deaf Performers, DJ, M.C (Names to be announced, later) on stage, Exhibitors, Vendors/Booths, Concession Stands/Kitchen: Foods & Drinks, Backdrop-Self-Photos, Socialize & more... Castine Center in Pelican Park, 63350 Pelican Dr. Mandeville.

14th

Some Enchanted Evening with Northshore Community Orchestra

Presented by the City of Slidell 5-7pm Originally planned for Heritage Park and postponed due to rain, the free concert will now take place indoors at the Slidell Municipal Auditorium. Northshore Community Orchestra is the only symphony orchestra in St. Tammany Parish where both youth and adult musicians perform together. Under the direction of longtime conductor Susan Messina, the orchestra presents a wide-ranging repertoire that spans classical, jazz, pop, folk, movie themes and Broadway favorites. Slidell Municipal Auditorium 2056 2nd St., Ole Towne Slidell

15th

The Covington Country Club: Father’s Day Grill & Chill

11am-7pm Join us for a Father’s Day Grill & Chill at the CCC! FREE Beer for Dads!

19th

Sunset at the Landing Concert Series 6-8pm Free The series features regional and touring artists performing jazz, bluegrass, folk, blues and more. All are encouraged to bring refreshments and chairs or blankets for lawn seating. Some bench seating is also available. 100 N. Columbia St., Covington

26th

Columbia Street Block Party

Hosted by The Covington Business Association.  The Last Friday of the month through Oct. 6-9pm Along Columbia Street, usually between Boston and Rutland streets. The party is a free event open to the community, featuring Classic Cars, Car Clubs, and CBA member businesses

27th

Slidell Heritage Festival

Hosted by the Rotary Club of Slidell in conjunction with the city of Slidell. 5pm - 11pm Free for children under 12, with tons of fun things to do! $15 Ages 13 and up.All Proceeds from this event go right back into the community ! Come join us for lots of good food, music,

games, and inflatables for the kids, arts and crafts booths, specialty vendors, and fireworks display at 9 pm. Heritage Park Amphitheater 1707 Bayou Ln. Slidell. For more info. visit: www. SlidellHeritageFest.Org

27th

Louisiana Cat Fest

Come have a meow-nificent time! Fleur de Lis Center in Mandeville.

10am-5pm Tickets: Under 7 Free Child $10 Adult $20 Family Pack $75

Experience a day filled with feline fun, engaging activities, and the opportunity to connect with fellow cat enthusiasts. Louisiana Cat Fest is a celebration of all thing’s cats!

Weekly Markets

Every Wednesday

Covington Farmers Market. 10am–2pm Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire Street, Covington CovingtonFarmersMarket.net

First & Third Saturday

Pearl River’s Honey Island Art & Farmers Market. 2pm–6pm Year round, open air market 64378 Highway 41, Pearl River. Call: 985-640-5482 LouisianaLandCan.com

Every Saturday

The Paddock Farmers Market. 9am–1pm (weather permitting)

Live Music from 10am-1pm 82292 LA-25, Folsom. Call: 985-705-1091, GiddyUpGrounds.com/paddock-market/

Camellia City Farmers Market. 8am–Noon 2055 2nd St. Slidell City Hall Complex Parking Garage Facebook.com/CamelliaCityMarket

Covington Farmers Market. 8am–Noon, rain or shine. 609 N. Columbia St. on side lawn of the Covington Police Department, CovingtonFarmersMarket.net

Hammond Farmers & Artisans Market. 8am–Noon, year round. Corner of #2 W. Thomas Street and 213 SW Railroad Avenue, Downtown Hammond, at the Pavilion Call: 985-277-5686 dddhammond.com

Lafitte Street Farmers Market. 9 am–1pm In door/Out door Open rain or Shine 725 Lafitte Street, Mandeville, Call: 504-491-9243

E-mail: MaryPuderer24@gmail.com

Every Sunday

Abita Springs Art & Farmers Market. 10am–2pm 22049 Main Street, Abita Springs, Abita Trailhead. Call: 985-892-0711 market@ abitaspringsla.gov

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

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

The Simple Test That Could Help Save Your Life

You eat healthy. You stay active. You feel fine. But heart disease can still be silently developing— without symptoms and even without showing up on routine stress tests.

At Louisiana Heart & Vascular Institute, we use one of the most powerful tools available to uncover hidden heart disease before it becomes a serious problem: the Coronary Calcium Score. This quick, painless CT scan looks directly at the arteries of your heart to detect calcified plaque—often years before symptoms appear. Think of it this way: while a stress test checks how your heart performs under pressure, a calcium scan actually looks “under the hood.”

For many, this simple test provides peace of mind. For others, it offers an early warning that allows time to take preventive action through lifestyle changes, medications, or further evaluation.

The scan takes only minutes, requires no needles or downtime, and is available at most local hospitals or outpatient testing centers for approximately $100.

A score of zero—the best possible result—can mean an extremely low risk of a heart event in the next several years.

Your heart health deserves more than guesswork. Take a proactive step today!

can be reached at Louisiana Heart and Vascular, located at 20 Starbrush Cir. in Covington. Call 985-777-7000.