★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

VOL. 14, NO. 9 KENNER’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SINCE 1991 NOVEMBER 2005

Treasure Chest Casino $4.6 million in rainy day fund saves the day for Kenner suffers only minor By ALLAN KATZ Katrina. we would have been forced to layoff per- “With perfect hindsight, it’s clear that sonnel and limit some of the cleanup damage, re-opens and Kenner Finance Director Duke was a great decision,” said McConnell. efforts that made such a big difference in McConnell says a decision by Mayor Phil “If our ‘rainy day’ fund remained at the clearing the streets of storm debris right enjoys good response Capitano and the city council to raise the low levels of the past, we would have had after Katrina hit.” from customers city’s “rainy day” fund two years ago paid a major fiscal problem during the Shortly after taking office, Mayor major dividends in the wake of Hurricane Hurricane Katrina aftermath. Most likely, Capitano said he thought the “rainy day” By ALLAN KATZ fund was not adequate to fund the cost of emergencies, such as hurricanes, and Hurricane Katrina broke some win- asked to increase it to $7.5 million. That dows at the Treasure Chest Casino, but Job fair $7.5 million was later reduced to $4.6 wasn’t able to budge the securely tied- million due to extra allocations primarily down gaming boat. After prompt repairs, considered to the police department. Those funds the Treasure Chest is back in business. made it possible for Kenner, unlike other “Katrina was the first hurricane where a success South Louisiana cities impacted by we didn’t allow any of our crew to ride out A job fair on October 25 Katrina, to offer a full range of emer- the storm on the boat,” said Rob Stillwell, sponsored by the city of Kenner gency cleanup services while keeping all vice president for Communications at resulted in 75 employers the city employees on the payroll. Boyd Gaming, owners of the Treasure attending with more than 600 “There’s a great lesson in this for all Chest. Reached in Las Vegas, Stillwell would-be employees registering. Companies hiring included of us,” said McConnell. “In the environ- said, “We were very respectful of a Radio Shack, Wal-Mart, ment we live in here in South Louisiana, Category 4 hurricane. As it turned out, we Enterprise Car Rental, Big the danger of a disaster is never far away, were extremely fortunate in suffering only Wheel Novelties, Taco Tico and although we pray it will be many years broken windows. The storm didn’t budge Wing Zone. “The event was before we again see anything like the Treasure Chest, thank goodness.” such a success that we will Hurricane Katrina. We need to be pre- With the damages repaired, the definitely host another soon,” said Mayor Phil Capitano. pared for the worst. Mayor Capitano was Treasure Chest has re-opened for business. right and the city council did the right About half of the gaming vessel’s 1,030 thing in backing his proposal.” ★ employees have returned. The Treasure Chest is open daily from noon to 3:00 a.m. Garbage and debris collection problems addressed Kenner Star enters continued on page 19 The city of Kenner has filed suit lection contract for the city. “In its request fifteenth year by against Waste Management, their con- for proposals, Kenner specifically Kevin Delahoussaye tracted automated garbage collection requested that all bidders incorporate into launching website company, for their continued failure to their proposal a contingency plan for In September, the Kenner Star celebrated announces he’ll run collect garbage following Hurricane ‘Storms and Other Disasters.’ To date, the beginning of its fifteenth year of publica- for District 4 council Katrina. In 1999, Waste Management was we have yet to see this plan. I have tion in Louisiana’s sixth largest city by mak- seat that will be the successful bidder for the garbage col- continued on page 32 ing the jump to cyberspace. The paper’s new site, found at www.kennerstar.com, will fea- vacant in 2006 ture a printable online version of the current month’s edition, digitally archived copies of By ALLAN KATZ back issues, and writer profiles, among other Kenner citizens, business community items of interest. Kevin bounce back from Katrina Newspaper publisher Troy Broussard Delahoussaye, explained that he hopes the new website will an assistant allow even more people to catch up on events vice president in Kenner. at Hibernia “Former city residents, and others who Bank, has live outside of Kenner, often ask me how announced that they can begin receiving the Star or get infor- he will seek mation and stories from past issues. the District 4 Beginning this month, the answer to both City Council questions is simple – all that they have to do seat in the is log on.” Kevin Delahoussaye 2006 elections. Broussard adds that www.kennerstar.com The District 4 Hurricane Katrina more quickly than will also provide a list of over 100 high-traf- By ALLAN KATZ fic locations where non-residents can find seat is currently held by Michele Branigan any other community in the Metro area. hard copies of the paper. who is prevented by term limits from seek- Mayor Phil Capitano says the “I think that many of us who choose Candy Lovitt, managing editor of the ing a fourth term in that office. resilience of Kenner residents and the to live in South Louisiana have an inner Kenner Star, said that she is very pleased Delahoussaye said, “I have always business community has enabled the strength that motivates us and enables with the final product that web designer TCB believed in community service as one of the city to bounce back from the wrath of continued on page 32 Computers and Networking has put together. continued on page 28 continued on page 19 2 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 3

★ Community ★ KTV produces Katrina documentary KTV is currently producing a docu- very eye-opening. We have worked very mentary of Katrina and its impact on hard to write and edit this production in Kenner. At the present time, the channel order to preserve the facts while at the his Thanksgiving, the citizens of the darkest hours of these ferocious is only airing flooding footage, but KTV same time hoping to depict the human T Kenner will give thanks to God storms. We thank God for the doctors recorded the city’s preparation, the storm side of those trying to bring our city for its many blessings. Unlike so many and nurses at Kenner Regional Hospital itself raging through Kenner, the after- back. The documentary will be ready communities devastated by Hurricane who risked their lives to save ours. math, relief efforts, cleanup and more, sometime in November,” explained Katrina and Hurricane Rita, much And, we offer thanks for our clergy and all will be included in the Katrina Karen Boudrie, executive producer, who of Kenner was spared catastrophic who never lost their faith that we damage. Our families are united, might find the healing grace of God. documentary. worked with the crews to document the homes are under repair, schools “We have an incredible accounting in storm, its effects, and the city’s response. and churches have reopened, and This Thanksgiving, as we mourn the pictures and words of just how the city “The mayor believes this will become an businesses are back in commerce. lives and communities taken by this prepared for and responded to the storm, important piece of Kenner’s history and I hurricane season, let us give thanks including actual accounts from Kenner agree.” As we thank God for the blessing that God gave us Kenner. citizens themselves about how they The length of the piece is still unde- of sparing our lives and property, weathered the storm. This documentary termined at this time, but when complet- we offer thanks for the brave men is a very factual look at one city in crisis ed it will air on KTV and will also be and women in our police and fire and how it responded. I think it will be available for purchase. ★ departments who sacrificed their Permit and temporary housing regulations personal safety to protect ours during changed for Kenner home and business owners In light of the fact that many Kenner res- ational vehicle or trailer on the same site as idents are repairing and restoring their their home while repairs are made may do homes, which in some cases are inhabitable, so, however, it must be clear of the sidewalk the city of Kenner has altered and lessened and street. some of its restrictions on temporary hous- Fees for such trailers will be waived but ing and permit requirements. Additionally, a permit is required from the Code Emergency Ordinance 9229 was signed by Enforcement and Inspection Department of the Kenner City Council on October 25 to the city of Kenner, located at 1801 Williams address residents’ needs for temporary hous- Boulevard, Building B. Call 468-4070 for ing. The ordinance can be found at more information. Paid for by the P.J. Hahn Campaign. | www.pjhahn.com | 504.469.2644 www.kenner.la.us/images/temphousing.pdf. “One of our most difficult challenges at Temporary trailers for living or business this time is the code enforcement and per- purposes on commercial or industrial sites mitting process. Our building codes and per- Businesses that need to locate temporary SAMUEL Y. BROWN, M.D. mitting procedures are in place for health trailers on their business property or indus- and safety reasons. The city is in the process trial site may do so provided they in business ACCEPT ALL HMOs and PPOs, of hiring ten private contractors to assist our pre-Katrina. Contact Kenner’s Code OCHSNER & MEDICAID code enforcement inspectors who will work Enforcement Department. nights and weekends to make the permitting New Patients and inspection process move as quickly as Trailer/R.V. safety and possible for residents. Since times are tough, Plumbing: Make sure sewer lines are Newborn Conferences the city has reduced all Katrina-related connected to the sewer line/cleanout at the Welcomed building permit fees by one-half,” said premises and not connected to the sub-sur- Mayor Phil Capitano. face drainage (street storm drains) as this 443-KIDS Before construction, a building permit could be a major health hazard. If you have Se habla Español must be applied for at the Code Enforcement questions, contact a plumber or Kenner’s Monday - Friday 8:30 - 5:00 • Saturday 8:30 - 12:00 office located at 1801 Williams Boulevard in Wastewater Department at 468-7292. 3813 Williams Blvd., Kenner - Between W. Esplanade & The Lake Building B on the first floor. After the appli- Electrical: For the safety of residents, it cation is filed, a building inspector will is required that a Kenner licensed electrician examine the property to determine what is connect any electrical wiring to temporary actually needed and then the building permit housing. will be issued. The reduced rate “storm dam- We listen, we assess age” fee schedule for any repair or renovation Homeowner self repairs your needs, we make it easy for to an existing property begins at $7.50 and Homeowners performing their own increases based on the dollar amount of total repairs must sign an acceptance of responsi- you to make legal decisions. repairs. If electrical and plumbing repairs are bility affidavit from Kenner’s Department of • Wills - Trusts - Successions needed, a Kenner licensed electrician and a Inspection and Code Enforcement. • Real Estate Closings Kenner licensed plumber will need to file the Plumbing: If you are removing plumbing • Business Law job with the city. The minimum filing fees fixtures from your home or business, please for plumbing, electrical and mechanical (air- cap or cover all drain/sewer connections. conditioning/heating/gas) are $30 per trade. Escaping sewer gas is dangerous and poten- MLF In regard to permits and temporary hous- tially fatal. If you are unsure of how to do ing, the city of Kenner has released the fol- this, contact a licensed plumber. Melchers Law Firm lowing information for citizens. Gas: If you smell gas, immediately evac- Estate Planning • Real Estate • Business Law uate the premises. Do not touch any electri- 909 West Esplanade Ave., Suite 206, Kenner Temporary R.Vs or trailers on residential lots cal switches. Do not use a cell phone on the James L. Melchers, Attorney-At-Law Homeowners who need to locate a recre- continued on page 10 Kathy Melchers, Administrator (504) 467-1092 4 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

★ From the Editor ★ There is such a thing as Kenner spirit, and it’s already rebuilding what the hurricane tore down and couldn’t bear to get out of bed. There is a dents, relief workers, the military, business I think a big round of applause is due the deep sense of personal loss that can hardly be leaders and city workers could get together to city workers and the Kenner Police described if it hasn’t happened to you. tell each other their stories. One of their cooks Department. Both performed above and But when I see my neighbors working and at Laketown Grill has produced over 4,000 beyond the call of duty. Many police officers toiling to rebuild their homes, it picks me up. delicious handmade burgers since September literally put their lives on the line when the If they can do it, so can I. 14. floodwaters rose. I was tremendously By ALLAN KATZ I also share the view of Mayor Phil “There is just something inside of all of us impressed when the city’s Public Works crews I am amazed by the sheer speed of Capitano who thinks that those of us who that wouldn’t allow us to lie down and weep and police officers were on the streets Monday Kenner’s recovery and the fortitude that resi- choose to live in South Louisiana have for very long,” says Darwin Martin. “Not that night just hours after Katrina passed, begin- dents and businesses have exemplified in the resilience in our character that sooner or later we don’t have moments of terrible sadness for ning the work of debris removal and tree cut- wake of Hurricane Katrina. kicks in and gets us up on our feet, ready to all the suffering inflicted on so many, but ting. And another big round of applause goes City officials say that more than 60 per- rebuild our homes, our businesses, and our we’re people who look to the future and think to Mayor Capitano for being insightful in hir- cent of Kenner residences suffered extensive lives. that if we work hard and push ourselves, then ing a debris cleaning company two days prior damage from Katrina and virtually every busi- One of the best stories of true grit that I tomorrow is going to be a better day.” to the storm, so they would be on the job ness in the city was impacted by winds or know about happened at Laketown Grill on Give Mayor Capitano credit for being immediately after. Although the federal and water, or both. But Kenner has bounced back Williams Boulevard, owned by Ross and right about Kenner’s “rainy day” fund. state governments are having their problems in with true grit. Wherever the eye turns, you see Darwin Martin. They were fortunate as their Capitano increased the “rainy day” fund, with recovery, our city government is running homeowners repairing their residences and building suffered only minimal damage. Of the approval and support of the Kenner City smoothly. businesses either re-opened or working toward the three of nine employees who were able to Council, to $4.6 million. Of course, the disas- Overall, Katrina was a devastating hurri- re-opening. return home quickly, all lost their homes and ter did come in the form of Hurricane Katrina, cane, but it appears to me that Kenner some- That is certainly not to downplay or make had to find temporary quarters. But the but the $4.6 million “rainy day” fund meant how withstood her toughest punch, and, with light of the awful feelings suffered by those Martins and their employees nevertheless put Kenner had enough money to keep all city the true grit that goes with being South who lost their homes or businesses. Many in their shoulders to the wheel, passed both a employees on duty and was able to finance the Louisianans, is rebuilding the city and re- Kenner have ample reasons to mourn their military and Department of Health inspection early stages of the cleanup until federal dollars starting our lives with the intention of being losses. I know first hand what it is to lose a and was the first restaurant in the metro area came in. And I have to credit the diligence of better than ever. That’s a nice thing to be able home where you’ve lived for 26 years. There to reopen, on September 14. Laketown Grill Capitano’s staff as Kenner to date is the only to say. ★ were days after Katrina when I felt paralyzed became a meeting place where Kenner resi- city to receive FEMA reimbursement money.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Political Review November 2005 Vol. 14 No. 9 Publisher President Bush’s visits are nice, but it’s time for Katrina action TROY BROUSSARD Editor Finally, FEMA has begun to establish federal spending, and others concerned ALLAN KATZ assistance centers closer to devastated about Louisiana political corruption. Managing Editor/Marketing Director areas and the new FEMA Director, R. Others pointed out that the proposal was CANDY LOVITT David Paulison, is vowing to reverse just way too expensive, citing that $62 bil- Staff Writer/Editor TROY BROUSSARD another mistake: no-bid contracts. In the lion had already been allocated in the Sports Writer aftermath of the storm, lucrative no-bid immediate aftermath of Katrina. KEN TRAHAN contracts were given to some politically While Louisiana Senators offered leg- Contributing Writers By JEFF CROUERE connected firms, while local firms only islation, the Bush administration has not JEFF CROUERE JAMES L. MELCHERS received a minuscule percentage of the proposed any specific bills. According to LYNNE DIMM SHARON SOLOMON Since Hurricane Katrina roared work. As FEMA brought in companies White House spokesman Trent Duffy, “I ED CLANCY SCOTT ZIMMERMAN onshore August 29, President Bush has with out-of-state and foreign workers, think there was an expectation the White CARL W. C LEVELAND DAN DORMADY made eight stops in the Gulf Coast region, local firms that have been ravaged by the House would send a big ‘Here’s our recov- EDGAR BERNARD CRAIG GOODWIN including five visits to the greater New hurricane were neglected. ery’ package. I think it’s more like ROY A. WILLIAMS LADEAN RADA GLENN DOTTOLO LINDA R. MARTIN Orleans area. Every community in the During his last trip, President Bush Congress is going to be moving various NICK CONGEMI BOBBY JINDAL nation gets excited when a President of the vowed that Louisiana businesses will no pieces of legislation.” Yet, this strategy is a BUDDY SEELING RAFAELE. SADDY United States stops by for a visit, and longer be overlooked by FEMA, continu- problem for the area’s recovery. The Gulf PHIL CAPITANO KEITH DARCEY Jefferson Parish is no exception. Not only ing a promise that he made to the region Coast region cannot afford for Congress to Account Manager do community leaders welcome the atten- during his nationally televised address of take its time in approving legislation. If BARBARA BELLACI tion from the President and the chance to September 15 from Jackson Square. In the response to the Louisiana proposal is Typography tell him about their concerns and griev- that speech, the President promised to any indication, nothing is going to be PAULA COUGHLIN/TYPOSITION ances, but the President benefits as well. make this region an “opportunity zone.” approved anytime soon. Distribution Manager Every time the President visits the Katrina He pledged financial aid and housing for This is precisely why President Bush MELISSA AND ALLISON DRAKE victims, the lingering anger over the initial displaced families and tax incentives for needs to take charge. If he wants a pack- Printing neglect from the federal government dissi- businesses in the areas hit hard by Katrina. age to pass, in a Republican controlled DIXIE WEB GRAPHICS © 2005 Kenner Star, Inc. All Rights Reserved pates. Since that time, there have been vari- Congress, it will pass. This will not only Kenner Star is published monthly and is Right after the storm, the Bush admin- ous proposals introduced in Congress. be good for the region, it will be good for distributed by direct mail to all istration was blasted for their slow One package, offered by Louisiana his legacy. It will counteract claims that 20,600 registered voter households in Kenner. An additional 2,000 copies are distributed response and for the ineffectual leadership Senators Mary Landrieu and David Vitter, his administration did not care about the in over 100 high traffic locations. of FEMA, the agency which had been was slammed as too greedy and sprinkled victims of the hurricane and it will revive KENNER STAR rightly criticized for the inadequate with too many lobbyist wish lists. The a region in desperate need of the assis- P.O. BOX 641654 • KENNER, LA 70064 resources that it initially provided in the package totaled $250 billion, and included tance of the US government. Phone & Fax 468-9125 Email: [email protected] aftermath of Katrina as well as some bad a laundry list of long shot funding goals, Of course we always enjoy seeing Subscriptions $11.95 Per Year decisions once aid started arriving. In such as giving the Army Corps of President Bush, or any President for that The content of all theme-based columns, written by many hard hit areas, FEMA did not set up Engineers $40 billion, over ten times their matter. However, the time for nice visits is respective professionals in this newspaper, is in no way victim support centers near the devasta- annual budget. The Vitter/Landrieu pro- over, it is now time for serious action and intended to render advice, suggest a course of action, or take the place of an individual consultation regard- tion, instead expecting poor victims to posals met with fierce opposition from funding. Otherwise, businesses and resi- ing that subject matter. travel many miles to receive aid. conservatives upset about out of control continued on page 14 KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 5

★ Health ★ East Jefferson General Hospital weathers the storm By ALLAN KATZ streets but our patients got excellent care. saw the JPSO officers and National of our employees. They wrote a great We were powered by generators. Food Guard soldiers on duty, there was every chapter in East Jefferson Hospital histo- The streets around East Jefferson ran a little short. We got an emergency reason to be confident we would not be ry.” General Hospital flooded during supply of fuel from a U.S. Navy ship. It threatened, and we weren’t.” Now, the community is returning and Hurricane Katrina, but the hospital itself wasn’t the most comfortable of settings, Both Peters and Kishner were espe- there are close to 400 in-patients and remained high and dry. Now, with the but our doctors and our employees were cially grateful to the hospital’s employees more than 3,000 employees caring for community slowly getting back to nor- just magnificent. They really rose to the who stayed on duty, even while knowing them. “We wouldn’t want to ever do it mal, the future looks bright although occasion.” many of them had lost their homes and, again, but we’ll also never forget all the there are long-term fiscal concerns for Dr. Mark Peters, President and CEO in many instances, their families were people who responded heroically to a the area’s healthcare providers since so of EJGH, said the hospital staff was displaced out of Louisiana. “It wasn’t very dangerous and threatening situa- many people are unemployed and unin- especially grateful for the security pro- easy for anyone,” said Peters. “We’ll tion,” said Kishner. ★ sured. Janice Kishner, Chief Operating vided by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s always be grateful for the superb service Officer and Chief Nurse Executive at Office and the National Guard. “In the EJGH, said 25 of the 27 buildings owned immediate aftermath of the hurricane, by the hospital suffered roof damage dur- there were a hundred rumors about loot- ing Katrina. “During the four days after ing and gunfire. Many people at the hos- Katrina, we were surrounded by flooded pital were very concerned. But when you KRMC open and offers 60 hospital beds Hot Breakfast • Po-Boys • Wraps • Salads Soups • Homemade Desserts • Laits By ALLAN KATZ back at work. Remediation crews are at work in the medical staff building while Cappuccinos • Teas • Frozen Coffees During Hurricane Katrina, more than most of the rain damage to the hospital has 1,000 persons sought refuge from the storm been repaired. The KRMC Emergency Call In or Fax Orders For Take Out at Kenner Regional Medical Center. While Room is also open. 504-443-2299 there was rain damage to KRMC’s medical “We evacuated 150 patients after the staff building, the hospital suffered no storm made landfall,” said Khashou. “That 4041 Williams Blvd. at Vintage major damage or flooding. went very well. All arrived safely. During in Winn Dixie Shopping Center “All of our services except for psychia- the storm, we lost our air conditioning and try and obstetrics are fully operational and ran short of food. We had some rationing, that is progressing,” said Jack Khashou, but nothing serious. It’s fair to say that we Hair Loss Director of Business Development at came through Hurricane Katrina in rela- Barely noticeable, excessive thinning, or complete- KRMC. “We re-opened on September 24 tively good shape and will hopefully enter ly gone. Whether it is caused by a medical condi- with 20 beds and now have 60 beds avail- the New Year with few if any signs that a tion, hereditary or stress…WE CAN HELP. able. Our patients and medical staff have hurricane swept through here in late been very responsive.” August.” ★ More than 280 KRMC employees are Call today and discuss with our experts your many options for beautiful hair. Tulane-Lakeside Hospital offers expanded services Hair Styles Unlimited Tulane-Lakeside Hospital, located at Hospital will now offer many of the servic- Keeping the fashion conscious of Kenner beautiful for 28 years. 4700 I-10 Service Road in Metairie, is in es that were provided at the Tulane excellent operating condition and is now University Hospital & Clinic downtown 464-5949 open with expanded services. The 119 bed campus,” said CEO Jim Montgomery. “Our 3635 Florida Avenue • Open Mon. - Sat. facility had no structural damage or flood- physicians and staff are excited to continue ing from Hurricane Katrina. providing the highest level of care to In addition to its traditional obstetric patients at Tulane-Lakeside Hospital.” and gynecology services, Tulane-Lakeside On October 24 Tulane-Lakeside Hospital now offers 24 hour Urgent Care, Hospital further expanded its service line to Family Practice, Urology, Breast Cancer include pediatric care. The pediatric unit is Surgery, General Surgery, ENT, staffed by the same nurses and doctors who Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, non- have provided expert care at Tulane invasive Cardiology, Orthopaedics and University Hospital & Clinic's downtown Ophthalmology. It also continues to provide location. Your One Stop Shop For diagnostic imaging, mammography, state- “Our team will continue to provide the ALL Your Automotive Needs of-the art labor and delivery with post par- same level of healthcare excellence that we tum recovery suites, maternal/fetal surveil- have always provided at Tulane Hospital for lance systems, Newborn ICU’s, around the Children,” says Dr. Bill Gill, neonatologist STEREO INSTALLATION • KEYLESS ENTRY clock neonatal care, breastfeeding support and interim chairman of pediatrics at ALARM SYSTEMS • WINDOW TINTING and fertility services. Tulane-Lakeside Hospital. “To meet the needs of the residents of Tulane-Lakeside Hospital is a campus greater New Orleans as we recover and of Tulane University Hospital & Clinic, and Wesley Cato • 2500 Delaware Avenue • 461-0442 rebuild our communities, Tulane-Lakeside can be contacted at 780-8282. ★ 6 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

★ Government ★ Katrina challenges the help of an outside contractor hired the site. Even though we had all the nec- I would like to thank Kenner resi- by my administration to assist, are catch- essary permits and studies, I requested dents for their resilience and patience ing up. However, I am in no way satis- an additional air quality sample in an during this cleanup effort. I would like fied with WM’s job performance to date. abundance of caution. And I am pleased to also thank the many residents who The city has since filed a lawsuit against to report that this sample shows the site have shown support with their phone By PHIL CAPITANO Waste Management, Inc. for their con- poses no immediate health or environ- calls, emails and letters. It means a lot Kenner Mayor tinuing failure to collect garbage follow- mental threat to the area. In fact, city during a time like this to have those kind ing Hurricane Katrina. The company crews spray the entire location with words. And I’d like to thank those of you All of the training in the world can’t promised it could deal with a major dis- water and special non-hazardous chemi- who voiced your criticism and not – so- possibly prepare for the biggest natural aster and has yet to live up to that prom- cals every day to prevent dust and odors. kind words. Constructive criticism can disaster our country has ever experi- ise. In addition, Waste Management has This is not a garbage site. Some illegal benefit all of us, and I assure you that enced. It is heart wrenching to see what never produced the required $5 million garbage dumping has occurred, but this was just as important to me in Katrina left in her wake. We were lucky dollar performance bond and unfortu- those incidents were isolated and in no addressing the many issues facing us at here in Kenner. But for a few miniscule nately, the previous administration never way contributed to a health hazard. this time. We have taken all of this input degrees on the map, we could have been pressed the issue. The purpose of this What’s important to remember is that into consideration as we work to St. Bernard Parish, or the lower Ninth suit is to force WM to do what they are a storm with 140 mile per hour winds improve our readiness and our emer- Ward. But it wasn’t just that fateful last contracted to do and to recoup the costs blew through our city and left thousands gency response plan. minute turn east, but careful planning of having to hire outside replacements. of tons of debris. We made a decision If there is anything I can do for you, and execution that is moving Kenner As for tree and construction debris that was basically the lesser of two evils please contact me at kennermayor@ken- forward faster than our neighbors. We such as sheetrock and carpeting, Hard – create a temporary site so that resi- ner.la.us or 468-7240. ★ had a plan. We made adjustments as Rock Construction has worked tirelessly dents could have debris removed quick- needed and we are bringing Kenner since the storm removing this debris ly, or have our trucks make individual Kenner City Council meetings are back. But one job has perhaps been a from the curbside to the temporary site trips to the landfill in Waggaman, result- broadcast on KTV’s channel 76 every bigger challenge than most others in this across from the airport. You may have ing in debris remaining curbside for Friday at 7:00 p.m. and on Saturdays post-Katrina world…garbage. heard from uninformed sources that the months longer. We know we’ve made at 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Check the Even before September, garbage site posed a health and safety hazard, the right decision, and have already city of Kenner’s website, service was in no way up to the stan- with problems ranging from rampant taken steps to reduce the size of this site. www.kenner.la.us, for air times of dards set forth by our contract with rats and horrific odors to birds flying We will close the temporary site as soon Mayor Capitano’s KTV show, “On The Waste Management. But we all know into jet engines. as possible without slowing down the Front Porch With Phil.” that the situation deteriorated further The Environmental Protection overall progress citywide. after the storm. Still, WM crews, with Agency gave us the green light to use New Jersey town adopts Kenner

SINCE 1985 OPEN WITH FULL STAFF Tuesday thru Saturday • Walk-ins welcomed HAIRCUTTING & STYLING, HAIRCOLORING, UPDOS MAKEUP APPLICATION, SPA MANICURE, SPA PEDICURE, MASSAGE AND FACIALS 3535 Chateau Blvd. Suite 5 465-9590 Landscaping as usual… Our place has been leveled by Katrina but we will be doing landscaping as usual until we can rebuild. Mayor Phil Capitano accepts storm donations in Landscapers and regular customers for yard work September from Hoboken, and planting can call us at 888-7517 or 468-5467 New Jersey Mayor Dave Roberts. In September Hoboken raised money and CALL LYNN DIMM FOR AN ESTIMATE delivered a truckload of sup- PERSONAL SERVICE - SATISFACTION GUARANTEED plies to Kenner and a portion was received by St. Elizabeth 888-7517 or 468-5467 Ann Seton School. St. Elizabeth students are shown with both mayors holding LYNN DIMM’S NURSERY banners sent by Hoboken 27 W. 27th Street • Kenner, LA students offering their sup- port and hope for recovery. KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 7

★ Government ★ Acts of selflessness hidden by red tape to link up those in need with those who care. helicopter to rescue their stranded employ- accountability structure to the effort. Evacuation centers were flooded with vol- ees and we could not identify which agency However, that only further highlighted how unteers and supplies, and first responders had authority to approve the mission. With broken and helpless the initial response had worked around the clock despite concern for only a three-hour window for a rescue been. their safety or possessions. before rising waters made the mission This is not about assigning blame or By BOBBY JINDAL Many police and first responders, who impossible, they were anxious to get the go pointing fingers, as there is still too much United States Congressman themselves were victims of Katrina, did not ahead. We finally told the company to avoid work to be done on the ground in Louisiana. leave their post for days. Health care staff interfering with Coast Guard missions, but Hopefully, however, we will learn from the Louisiana’s 1st Congressional hand ventilated patients, rescuers worked lit- to proceed with their own rescue operation. shortcomings of the bureaucracy in those District erally without respite, and law enforcement Sometimes, asking for forgiveness is indeed first few days and the successes of the pri- Over the weeks since Hurricane Katrina officials braved high waters and violence. better than asking for permission. vate sector over the same time period. Our devastated Louisiana, we have seen first- People from all over the nation are contact- One sheriff, when he called to request goal cannot be to make sure that all the hand the best and worst that our nation has ing me, especially people in areas recently needed supplies for his parish, was told that forms are filled out in triplicate, but instead to offer. devastated by their own tragedies, to offer he would have to email his request. That should be to quickly bring the relief to those I have spent countless hours in shelters assistance. would have been a simple enough task, if his in need. and witnessed both heart breaking and heart Unfortunately, the many acts of heroism parish was not underwater and without elec- Hopefully, once again, the human spirit warming stories. I saw a grandfather taking and selflessness have all too often been tricity! and compassion for our fellow man can win care of two children who received news that overshadowed by government bureaucracy Some of the stories border on the absurd out over bureaucracy in the long run. his missing daughter, a nurse working at a and red tape. As impressive and heartwarm- and would be funny if they were not so tragic. New Orleans nursing home, was found and ing as the tales I just related are, there are In the end, the private sector, both indi- Congressman Bobby Jindal’s 1st rescued. I heard accounts of a man paddling stories that boggle the mind. viduals and organizations, moved with Congressional District covers Jefferson, a small boat with a two-by-four, rescuing One mayor in a parish hit directly by the speed and compassion to provide the kind of Orleans, St. Charles, St. Tammany, stranded disaster victims in flooded neigh- hurricane was frustrated that he could not support and services that were so desperate- Tangipahoa and Washington Parishes. borhoods despite the encroachment of night- get supplies for his constituents. When he ly needed by those who had their lives Congressman Jindal has offices locally and fall. called FEMA for help, he was on hold for upended. The state and federal bureaucra- in Washington, D.C. and can be reached via Churches throughout Louisiana opened forty-five minutes refusing to hang up with- cies, in whom we had put our trust to protect his Southshore office at 3525 North their doors to take in evacuees and organized out talking to someone in charge who could us in these times of crisis, often moved as Causeway Boulevard, Suite 1020, Metairie, a statewide and national network to coordi- help him. He was finally told by the only quickly (or as slowly) as their paperwork Louisiana, 70002 or 837-1259. Constituents nate their efforts. Private individuals organ- person he could get on the phone that he could be filled out. The situation improved can also write to Congressman Jindal ized a network to open their homes to needed to write a memo to his supervisor. some, as the military increased its presence, directly at www.Jindal.house.gov. ★ strangers, using phone trees and the internet A company called my office to send a bringing its unified chain of command and

Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine Physical Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery

Charles P. Murphy, M.D. Thomas R. Lyons, M.D. Luis M. Espinoza M.D. Amy H. Phelan, M.D. Orthopedic Surgeon Orthopedic Surgeon Orthopedic Surgeon Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Director, Orthopedic Center for Fellowship Training Sports Medicine Fellowship Training Sports Medicine Fellowship Training Advanced Spinal Injections Sports Medicine Drs. Murphy,Drs. Lyons Murphy, and Espinoza Lyons, Espinozaare Orthopedic and PhelanSurgeons/Sports are Spo rtsSpecialists. Medicine They specialists serve as theprac- Orthopedic Consultantsticing for the at Washington the Orthopedic Nationals Center AAA/New for Sports Orleans Medicine, Zephyrs. located Dr. Phelan at 671 is a W. Physicial Esplanade Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist with advanced training in spinal injections and non-surgical spine care. The Orthopedic Avenue in Kenner. The Orthopedic Center is well recognized as a multispecialty Center is well recognized as a multi-specialty center of excellence dedicated to complete musculosketal care with center of excellence dedicated to complete musculoskeletal care with focused focused expertise in shoulder, knee and non-surgical spine care. expertise in shoulder, knee and nonsurgical spine care. 671 W. Esplanade Avenue, Kenner 467-5900 4921671 Airline W. EsplanadeDrive, Metairie Avenue, Kenner 504-467-5900 889-2663 8 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R Kenner Star’s family of advertisers open for business

It’s a sign that Katrina is on the way to becoming less a part of our lives, as well as a testament to the resiliency of our community. The Kenner Star is very pleased to provide this good news update about its family of advertisers who have opened their doors to provide vital services to the city and metro New Orleans.

Chops Bistro and Martini Bar Anthony V. Ligi, Jr., Attorney at Law “We are presently putting together our staff to re-open Hair Styles Unlimited “Our office sustained cosmetic damage, but has been one of the finest restaurants in town on November 5 at “We’re open for business with full services – complete hair, back in operation since October 3.” 111 Veterans Boulevard in Heritage Plaza in Metairie. nail and wig care and hair restoration. Our salon experi- Tony Ligi, Jr., attorney We are looking forward to hosting Christmas and holi- enced no damage from the storm. Our hours are 9:00 a.m. day parties, and dinners in our three large private rooms. until 6:00 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday and from 8:00 a.m. We will be open seven days a week. Please call 218- until 5:00 p.m. on Thursday through Saturday. We welcome Anything Car Audio 8967 for reservations and more information.” new clients. Please call 464-5949 for an appointment.” “There were a lot of vehicles damaged in Katrina. We George Messina and Nancy Hihar, owner are open and can install stereo systems, alarms, win- Scott Korndorffer, co-owners dow tinting and almost any kind of auto accessory. We are open from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Call 461-0442 Ice House for more information.” D’Aquila, Volk, Mullins & Contreras – APLC “We hope all of our customers and friends are OK and Republic Land Title Corporation Wesley Cato, owner spared from major damage from Hurricane Katrina. “Fortunately our offices sustained no hurricane damage We are open for business and welcome everyone and we re-opened on September 12. Our hearts and home. We have ice, propane, beer, and dry ice. If we Aparicio, Walker and Seeling, Inc. prayers go out to all of our clients and friends who suf- can help you in any way please call us at 469-3503. We “Our office was heavily damaged but we have relocat- fered losses as a result of this unprecedented event. We sell retail and also deliver to commercial businesses.” ed next door at 4521 W. Napoleon Avenue with nor- are fully staffed and are available to all existing and new Joe Ricca, owner mal business hours. We can assist you with all your clients needing hurricane related legal representation or insurance policy needs. Please call us at 883-4111 or assistance with insurance claims, SBA loan applications, Jazz Seafood and Steak House email [email protected] so we can help you.” contract disputes, and real estate closings. Contact us at “We opened up on September 15 and have been very Buddy Seeling, vice-president 469-6699.” busy. We’re open seven days a week and are ready to Roy M. D’Aquila, managing partner serve at 11:00 a.m. and are one of the latest places to Bellco Electric, Inc. close at 11:00 p.m. We offer freshly cut steak, fresh “We are taking service calls daily. We are locally Drs. Bradford & Catchings fish, fried shrimp & catfish, pasta and some old-style owned and operated and have served Kenner and the “We would like to welcome Dr. Ron Britsch from Chalmette Messina specials. Reservations are not necessary. We metro area for over 30 years. No job is too big or too to our dental practice located in Suite 204 on 4420 Conlin are hiring all positions. Call us at 468-3237.” small. We are state licensed and insured and we are Street. Please call 456-0964 for an appointment.” George Messina and offering free estimates. Please call 455-2355 to set up Dr. H. “Brad” Bradford III Scott Korndorffer, co-owners an appointment.” Dr. Sandra J. Catchings Ronnie and Barbara Bellaci, owners Kenner Convention & Visitors Bureau DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen “The Kenner Convention & Visitors Bureau is alive “We are licensed general contractors and have been and well. In October, after Katrina, we traveled to Café D’Cappuccino doing business in Kenner for over 26 years. We are cur- Detroit, Michigan and were successful in obtaining an “Everyone in my family lost their homes and Café rently providing written estimates for flood and hurri- AAU Girls Basketball National Championship for July D’Cappuccino was looted but we haven’t lost hope. cane damage at $295 which will be applied to the total of 2007. We were also triumphant in securing an AAU We have been in business thirteen years and we came estimate. Please call us at 466-3625.” Spring Sports Festival for May 2006 in the back on October 11 serving your old favorites and Kathy & Sal Faia, owners Pontchartrain Center. In November we will be attend- more opening Monday through Saturday from 7:00 ing a Teams Sports Convention in Ft. Lauderdale, a.m. until 7:00 p.m. We sincerely thank you for your Florida where we will have the opportunity to land business.” Georgy’s Hair Studio additional sporting events in Kenner for the future.” Tanya Virgadamo, owner “We opened up the second week after Katrina with regu- lar salon hours, full services and full staff. Walk-ins are Tim Rada, executive director welcomed. We are glad to be up and running and con- Century Title tributing to the recovery in our community. If you want Kenner Orthopedic & Sports Therapy “Century Title, Inc. is back in its permanent facility at to make an appointment, please call 465-9590.” “Kenner Orthopedic & Sports Therapy at 3921 3900 N. Causeway Boulevard, Suite 605 in Metairie Pam Georgy, owner Williams Boulevard came through Katrina well with after temporarily relocating to Baton Rouge. All our minimal damage. We have been up and operating for staff has returned and we are closing real estate trans- Gulf Coast Bank & Trust seven weeks now with full staff in place. All patients actions in all parishes except St. Bernard. We can be “We are open regular hours from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 in need of physical therapy services are invited to call reached at 830-7979, our regular telephone number.” p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:00 a.m. until noon the clinic at 443-5152 for an appointment. We are Randy Lovitt, owner on Saturday. We will continue to serve all of our cus- ready to see the city of Kenner return even stronger tomer’s personal and business needs. We can help home- over the next few months.” Chateau Café owners recover with home equity loans which can put Craig Goodwin, owner “We are open for hot breakfast, lunch and dinner at cash in their hands while they are waiting for insurance 7:00 a.m. closing at 10:00 p.m. seven days a week. settlements. Likewise, we have a similar program for Laketown Grill Come enjoy some of the finest coffee and greatest businesses where we can offer low interest loans up to “Due to great luck, hard work and minimal damage to selection of pastries in town. Our location at 139 $25,000 for six months to help them continue in busi- Laketown Grill, we were able to quickly open on September Robert E. Lee Boulevard which took on seven feet of ness until their insurance claim is settled. We are com- 14. The opportunity to serve our Laketown burger to old water is under construction and will re-open in the mitted to rebuilding our community and we are here to and new friends made our lives get back on a “normal” hec- future. Our West Napoleon café will also be opening serve the entire metro region.” tic fast track with the return of three great former employ- soon. Look for our second drive-thru location in Glenn Dottolo, vice-president and ees – Denny, Ellen and the “burger maker” Aldon. Thanks Kenner which will open in 2006.” branch manager for allowing us to be your shelter after the storm.” Scott Korndorffer, owner Ross and Darwin Martin, owners KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 9

L.A. Muhleisen & Son TeCoRo’s Restaurant “Each of our funeral home locations, 2607 Williams Prudential Gardner Realtors “We are very proud of the fact that Katrina caused no Boulevard and 2929 Metairie Road, sustained only minor “Our agents are back in full swing. We have a boom- changes in the way we prepare our food at TeCoRo’s. We damage as a result of Katrina, but following the storm nei- ing market – we have listings and they are selling. We have always prepared our dishes fresh every day and that ther had power or running water for over two weeks. But have moved to a new location at 4140 Williams has not changed. All of our sauces including marinara, because of our staff’s commitment to our community, we Boulevard that was planned before the storm. Please Alfredo, and seafood are made from scratch. And they managed to remain operational throughout this period. Today, call us at 443-6464 so we can help you with all your always will be. This is a family owned business and we both of our funeral homes are fully operational, most of our real estate needs.” strive to treat all of our guests as family. Since Katrina, staff has returned, and we continue to help families care for Linda Martin, branch manager we have been open for lunch on Tuesday through Friday their loved ones. Many challenges remain and at times we are from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. and for dinner from 5:00 overwhelmed, but each day is better than the day before.” p.m. until 9:00 p.m. On Saturday we serve dinner from Quality Tree Service Louis Muhleisen, owner 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and on Sunday dinner is served “We offer crane removal of large dangerous trees, from 1:00 until 9:00 p.m. We offer live entertainment on complete tree trimming and tree and stump removal Friday and Saturday from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Lynne Dimm’s Nursery along with hurricane preventive maintenance. We pro- on Sunday from 1:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Please come in “Our greenhouses and plants took a severe beating and vide services 24 hours a day and are locally owned and join our family for our delicious homemade dishes.” were declared a total loss, but, we have rented a trailer and operated. Please call 466-8011 so we can help Ter rie Mannina, Corliss Artus and and have set up a greenhouse. We feel like pioneers try- you.” Rose Vicari, sisters and owners ing to get our life back together, but we love Kenner and Ricky Spindel, owner will rebuild. We are ready to landscape now. Call us at 468-5467 to help you get your garden beautiful again.” The UPS Store Lynne Dimm, owner Retirement Planning Associates “Our office in the Executive Towers Building was “The UPS Store of Kenner, located at 4041 Williams Boulevard, continues to serve its customers in the after- Melchers Law Firm water damaged but all files are safe. We are operating from temporary space and can be contacted at 1-800- math of Katrina with its established services of packing, “Melchers Law Firm survived! Current clients can be assured shipping, copying and a new service designed to help their files are undamaged. We are accepting new clients and 569-2902.” Ron Hampton, principal storm victims. If your home suffered any damage that are available to answer questions, help with insurance issues will require demolition work and you want your valu- and meet your legal needs. We can be reached at 236-1933, ables protected, please call us at 443-2115 and we will 388-2680 and 225-757-5270. Call for an appointment.” Samuel Y. Brown, M.D. come to your home and pack them for you. Remember Kathy Melchers, firm administrator “Our office is as beautiful as ever. No damage from we are the packing and shipping experts and are locally the storm. We are open Monday through Friday and owned and operated.” Messina’s Restaurant Saturday morning seeing new and existing pediatric Raul Martin, Jr., owner “We suffered flood and roof damage and are waiting on patients. For an appointment please call 443-5437.” our insurance company to decide if we will repair or Linda Brown, C.E.O. rebuild the restaurant. But, we will be back in business Triple BBB Construction Company sometime next year. You can count on it!” “My company is up and running and we are very lucky George Messina, owner Scotty’s Tire and Automotive to have a full crew of employees. At this time we are “We offer full services, including new tires, flat repair, only serving Kenner and the Metairie area. We are local- Mike’s Train Shop & Hobby Center brake work, and scheduled maintenance for vehicles. ly owned and have been located in Kenner since I started “We are fully stocked for the holidays. I want to do my We are open on Monday through Friday from 7:30 the company in 1965. Please call 467-6998 for a free part to help the community by having a great sale with a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Call 465-1312 to check schedul- estimate on your home improvement needs such as roof- between 15% and 25% off most items. We are also ing.” ing, patios, pool enclosure, carports, screen roooms, equipped and have the supplies to help students with Scott Zimmerman, owner window screens and siding. We will return your call as school projects. In addition, we offer a Christmas lay- soon as possible. We are a state licensed home away plan. I am a Kenner native and have owned and Southeast Telecom improvement contractor, insured and a member of the operated Mike’s Train Shop & Hobby Center for over 22 “We never closed. We serviced our customers through Better Business Bureau. Visit our website at years. Our hours are 10 a.m. til-6 p.m. on Monday and immediately after Katrina. Anyone needing com- [email protected]. We wish all of you the through Saturday. We are located at 2000 Williams mercial telephone systems, voice and data cabling or best in recovering and getting your home together. We Boulevard. Please call 466-8531 for more information.” security cameras can call our office at 466-4243 and are all in this together. Let’s make the New Orleans area Mike Sciavicco, owner speak to Patricia Bordelon.” better than ever.” Wayne Johnson, president James H. Ball, Sr., owner Muller’s Flooring Solutions “Our home was destroyed but, amazingly, just four blocks away our business and warehouse were Susan M. Felder, D.D.S Wells Fargo Home Mortgage untouched by the storm. The welcome mat was still out “I will begin seeing patients again on Friday, “Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is open and running at front so we truly feel blessed and fortunate. We immedi- November 11. My office sustained minimal damage full speed and we are here to service your needs. Our ately re-opened and hit the ground running with all of from the storm. I welcome back all existing patients as hours at the present are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. our installers back at work. For people with immediate well as new patients. Please call 469-6333 now to Monday thru Friday. Please call 468-4163 and we can needs for flooring, we have been able to complete their schedule appointments.” assist you. Together we will build a greater Kenner, jobs within a week. Come in now to get on our installa- Dr. Susan Felder, dentist Metairie and New Orleans area.” tion schedule and minimize your wait. We want to give Mickey King, branch manager back to the community so we are committed to main- Swamp Room taining the price structure we had prior to the storm. “We are open until 2:00 a.m. on weekends and until World Class Collision Center Call us now at 469-9500. We are located at 3712 midnight during the week serving food until 10:30 on “We had no water damage. We are up and running. Our Williams Boulevard next to Helm Paint.” weekdays and until midnight on weekends.” regular hours are Monday through Friday from 8 to 5 Vicki Muller, owner Lance Latour, owner and we work with all insurance agencies.” Keith Bellaci, manager Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine and Edward Nickolaus, Jr. Reconstructive Surgery “The Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine and TCB Computers and Networking, LLC Zea Restaurant Reconstructive Surgery is proud to report our doctors “TCB Computers is open and operational. We have “In November we will be re-open in Esplanade Mall are currently treating patients at our 4921 Airline Drive regular business hours, 8 to 5 on Monday through with a limited menu and hours. As we get our staff back location while we reconstruct our Kenner office on West Friday. Business is back as usual. We have been help- we will expand the menu and the hours of operation. Esplanade. For appointments please call 889-2663.” ing local businesses during the recovery a week after Zea at Clearview Mall and the original Zea in Harahan Drs. Espinoza, Murphy, Lyons the storm. We can help you. Please call 616-8030.” are open now.” and the entire OCSM staff Ted Bowden, owner Greg Reggio, owner 10 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

★ Health ★ Patellofemoral problems: How do you manage creaky knees? when the uneven surfaces of the patella cosamine, have also been reported to help minimally invasive procedure that allows and the femoral groove rub against one decrease the amount of pain and stiffness for a complete assessment of the entire another. Typical complaints include pain in many people. Physical therapy can help joint. The surface of the patella and when walking down stairs or with any in the early stages by decreasing pain and femoral groove can be visualized to deter- excessive bending. Keeping the knee bent inflammation. As symptoms become con- mine the extent of wear and damage. for long periods of time such as on long trolled, your physical therapist can pro- Loose areas of cartilage are removed, By LUIS M. ESPINOZA, M.D. drives or sitting through a movie can also vide several treatment choices to correct leaving only stable fragments in place. result in varying degrees of stiffness, problems with flexibility, strength, align- This procedure is called a chondroplasty. A common source of pain in the knee soreness, and pain. The knee may feel as ment, and muscle balance. In addition, arthroscopy assesses is the knee cap, otherwise known as the though it gives out on occasion, but this is If symptoms fail to improve despite whether the patella is properly tracking patella. The patella is the moveable bone thought to be a reflex response to the pain these traditional methods of treatment, within the femoral groove. In the pres- on the front of the knee that acts as a ful- and not an indication of knee instability. surgical intervention may be indicated. ence of any mal-tracking disorder, an crum to allow the large thigh muscles to Gentle motion can help the knee by circu- Arthroscopic surgery of the knee is a continued on page 20 power the knee joint. The under surface of lating synovial fluid, which provides the patella is normally covered with a nutrition for the cartilage. All plumbers, electricians, mechanical thick, smooth material known as articular The diagnosis begins with a complete PERMIT AND TEMPORARY HOUSING (continued from page 1) and gas license holders will need to file for cartilage. This cartilage allows the patella history followed by an examination of the to glide in a special groove of the leg knee. Clinically, chondromalacia can be permits as usual. If they do not hold a premises. Immediately call Atmos Energy at bone (femur). mistaken for other knee problems because Kenner license, they will have to get licensed 849-4300. Problems develop when the patella the symptoms are often vague. X-rays are by the city in order to do work in Kenner. begins to wear out and the smooth carti- obtained on the initial consultation to All businesses that do not hold a lage begins to soften and breakdown. This determine the extent of wear in the knee City of Kenner to simplify process and Louisiana Occupational License and do softening, known as chondromalacia, may cap and to confirm proper positioning of reduce fees work in Kenner must get an occupational be the result of genetic predisposition or the patella within the femoral groove. To protect Kenner property owners, the license. from traumatic overuse. Problems can Often an MRI scan can be ordered to help regulations are designed to ensure that those All roofing and siding contractors have also arise from excessive tightness of the rule out other conditions such as torn car- performing the work are qualified. For a gen- to be licensed by the state of Louisiana. They muscles that control the motion of the tilage or ligament damage. eral contractor to do work in Kenner, the con- do not need permits but they do need to show patella. Small fissures form in the carti- The initial treatment for a patellar tractor must have a Louisiana state contrac- proof that they have a Louisiana State Board lage. Over time, these fissures become problem begins by decreasing inflamma- tor’s license. To check the status of a contrac- of Contractor’s License. larger cracks and the cartilage tissue can tion in the knee. Rest and anti-inflamma- tor, call the Louisiana State Board at (225) For more information visit the city of be completely worn away. tory medication, such as Ibuprofen, can 765-2301. Contractors must file for a permit Kenner’s website at www.kenner.la.us or Often people will experience a noisy help decrease the pain and swelling. Oral with the city, but that fee will be reduced to contact Kenner Code Enforcement or “creaky” sensation within the knee nutritional supplements, like glu- half the normal charge at this time. Department at 468-4070. ★

KTV-76 November 2005 Schedule KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 11

★ Banking ★ What’s next? By GLENN DOTTOLO don’t think that you have been treated fair- ly, move up the chain of command at the Whatever responsible agency and, if necessary, hire a RADIO CONTROLLED HOBBIES circumstances private adjustor to help. Don’t take “no” you found for an answer. yourself in Once you have maximized your recov- during and ery from insurance and government pro- immediately grams, you need to decide on the future after direction for you, personally, and for your Hurricane business if you are a business owner. If you Katrina, the are interested in a new career, this is the fact is that we time to consider a move. Almost everyone are all facing a is hiring, and the prospects are good for new reality. motivated individuals that want to be part Even if your personal losses were small, of the rebuilding process. If you don’t like we, as a parish and a state, now find our- your job, quit being miserable, look selves in a much different situation than we around. There are more companies looking were in before the storm. for workers now than there ever were The first step in this process is to real- before. istically appraise your situation. Have you If you own a business, this is the time maximized your recovery from whatever to see how you can benefit from the recon- losses may have occurred? This means struction of our state and parish. There is a making sure that you received all the lot of business out there and a lot of money money that you were entitled to from your to be made. You may however have to insurance company, FEMA and SBA pro- approach the market in a new way. grams. One of the most obvious opportunities In addition to any insurance money, is that patterns have been disrupted and 466-8531 residents displaced from their homes people are looking for new ways to get should have received $2,000 from FEMA. things done. If you can be part of the solu- You are also eligible for low interest SBA tion, the opportunities are endless. loans to cover uninsured personal property As you consider new ways to make and SBA disaster loans to rebuild your money, remember that your local com- business. These loans are direct loans, and munity banks are vitally interested in you can apply online at www.SBA.gov or at helping you. After all, we live here too. If the SBA disaster assistance center at the we can help you succeed, we will all be Westbank Shopping Center, #15 West better off. ★ Bank Expressway. Businesses only may apply at 5210 West Esplanade Avenue or in Glenn Dottolo, manager of Gulf Coast New Orleans at 365 Canal Street, Suite Bank & Trust’s Kenner Branch Office on 1050. Williams Boulevard, offers twenty-two Unfortunately, some federal employees years of full service banking to his cus- seem to think that a quick “no” will get you tomers. Dottolo can be contacted at 565- off their backs, and insurance companies 3656. Visit Gulf Coast Bank & Trust’s web- KatrinaKatrina inin KennerKenner VideoVideo occasionally try the same thing. If you site at www.gulfbank.com. NowNow Available!Available! ★ ★ Copies of Katrina in Kenner video Government now airing on KTV 76 are available for purchase at: Kenner extends amnesty Kenner Clerk of Court’s Office program until December 31 1801 Williams Blvd, Bldg. A Court Cashier window Mayor Phil Capitano and the Clerk of To f ind out if you have an outstanding Court’s office are extending the city’s attachment, visit the city website at DVD/VHS tapes are available for $20 amnesty program for outstanding attach- www.kenner.la.us and click on the amnesty Cash or Money Order only ments until December 31, 2005. The pro- link. gram, originally to continue only through Under the guidelines of the program, August, has brought in tens of thousands of traffic tickets only can be paid online, dollars to the city coffers prior to Hurricane attachments will be recalled, contempt fees Katrina. “Unfortunately, the storm has pret- will be waived, prosecutors and clerk staff ty much put a halt on people taking advan- will work with offenders to resolve their tage of the offer,” says Kenner Clerk of cases quickly, and a court appearance is not Court Keith Conley. “We want to continue required in most cases. the program to give those who may not Court hours are Monday through Friday have had the chance the opportunity to from noon to 4:00 p.m. For more informa- resolve their outstanding warrants. It also tion, call 468-7277. ★ gives a much-needed cash flow to the city.” $15 per video sold goes to the Kenner Relief Fund 12 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R ★ Personal Touch… ★ Government PricesCan’t BeBeat ! Post-Katrina FREE ESTIMATES Rivertown update Carpet • Wood By EDGAR BERNARD MegaDome Cinema is the box-office smash Dolphins, from Oscar nominee MacGillivray Ceramic • Granite Kenner Community Services OFF Director Freeman Films. This film is so popular, in Marble • Laminate $ Purchase of fact, that it has broken attendance records in $750 or more practically every city it plays. “Mars Quest” is Guaranteed Installation We’re up Installation Required and running the new planetarium show taking you closer to 50MENTION THIS AD again… finally. the red planet than you’d ever dreamed you’d The Rivertown be, and “Laser Holiday” is our Christmas- Historic themed laser show, a must-see for the family District took opening this holiday season. quite a hit from Speaking of holidays, our annual Katrina, but Christmas Village will kick off the holly, thanks to the jolly season with an opening night celebra- hard work of tion on Saturday, November 26 beginning at our city 5:30 p.m. in Veterans Park adjacent to City employees, the Hall. Mark your calendars to join us as Planetarium and MegaDome Cinema and Mayor Capitano, Santa and other holiday many of the museums are now operational. characters switch on the thousands of lights The attractions that were hit the hardest in our beautiful Christmas Village. On week- and are still under repair are the Space ends through December 20, the Village Station, Mardi Gras, Toy Train and Wildlife Cottages are open with food, drinks, hot and Fisheries museums. Due to hard work, chocolate, funnel cakes and pictures with the Science Center, Saints Hall of Fame, Santa. And don’t forget to take the family for Muller’s Flooring Solutions Mardi Gras Museum gift shop, Fine Arts a ride on the Village Train! Family owned and operated Gallery and Cannes Brulee Native American We want to make this holiday season Village are fully repaired and open to guests. extra special for all of our residents, both 3712 Williams Blvd. • Next to Helm Paint Now here’s the exciting news – the Kenner young and old. So come on out to Rivertown Planetarium and MegaDome Cinema is re- and the Christmas Village and enjoy every- 469-9500 opening with three new shows. Now at the thing our great city still has to offer. ★ KRD takes a licking, but keeps on ticking The wrath of Hurricane Katrina tried its forced so many families to leave Kenner for best to level the Kenner Recreation long periods just made it impossible to Department’s fields and facilities, but the resume the 2005 season,” said Bettencourt. KRD came through with flying colors and “We’ll put an asterisk by it and Kenner has resumed athletic leagues citywide. football fans will argue for years over “Some light poles were knocked over which teams probably would have won, had and there was roof damage to several gym- Katrina not hit the city.” OpenDaily nasiums but these have been repaired by Registration for basketball is available city workers and we’re going full speed at Muss Bertolino Monday through Friday ahead into basketball season for boys and from 5:00 p.m. to 8 p.m. The program is LUNCH AND DINNER girls,” said Larry Bettencourt, Director of open to boys and girls, ages 5 to 16. For KRD. “Registration is now underway at more information, call 468-7211. Muss Bertolino Playground and we are get- Also resuming are the KRD’s leisure Saturday - Thursday ting a good response, although it was a lit- programs, including dance (starts October tle slow at first. It appears we’ll field teams 17), ceramics (starts October 17), Creepy, 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. from every playground in Kenner, for boys Crawly, Slimy Bugs (one day only October • and girls.” 29), Karate (November 1), Total Body Among the players will be boys and Workout (November 2), Line Dancing Friday & Saturday girls from Harahan. Their gymnasium was (November 4) and Holiday Cookie badly damaged by Hurricane Katrina and Blossom (December 3). 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. Mayor Phil Capitano, at the request of Bettencourt paid special tribute to KRD Harahan Mayor Paul Johnson, invited the employees, three-quarters of whom were Harahan children to play basketball in displaced from their homes. “Our employ- Kenner this winter. ees did a great job during the storm, during FRESH DAILY SPECIALS Bettencourt said one of the casualties in its aftermath and now,” said Bettencourt. Kenner of Hurricane Katrina was the play- “They have endured great personal hard- ground football season, which was winding ship but they did a great job for the city. 2722 WILLIAMS BLVD. • KENNER, LA 70065 down into October playoffs. “It’s a shame, Now, besides doing their work, they’re 468-3237 but Katrina’s disruptive influence that rebuilding their homes and their lives.” ★ KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 13

★ Automotive ★ Coolant advice for today’s vehicles reservoir to do this. Half-fill the reservoir again, but this time, fill the radiator care of today’s vehicles. ★ with clean water and shake it to dislodge extremely slowly, as engine damage may any sludge. Dispose of it in the fashion occur otherwise. Continue with this run- Scott Zimmerman is the owner of described on your coolant container. in procedure until the heater functions Scotty’s Tire and Automotive, Inc., a family- Check the radiator cap for seal damage normally, the radiator cooling fans (if so owned and operated full-service tire and and sludge in the spring area. You may equipped) operate normally and the automotive shop, located at 4200 Williams By SCOTT ZIMMERMAN have to replace it. coolant level remains full in the radiator Boulevard in Kenner. Store hours are 7:30 In the early days of ethylene glycol and reservoir. This painstaking fill proce- a.m.-5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and coolant/antifreeze, draining and filling Thermostats dure is not as easy as it was in the old 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. on Saturday. Scotty’s your cooling system used to be a lot sim- When changing the thermostat it is days but it is what is necessary to take website is www.scottystireauto.com. pler. You just reached for the drain pet- very important to try to use the exact orig- cock at the bottom of the all-metal radia- inal replacement part. If you can’t get the tor and let it all drain out into the drain exact original replacement part, the one pan. Next you filled the radiator with a CARNIVAL CRUISES you use should exactly resemble the orig- FALL PRICES NOW AVAILABLE • GROUPS WELCOME 50/50 mix of coolant and water until it inal, especially in the number of “stages” reached the full line marked on the radia- it has, either one or two in the center area SKI TRIP HEADQUARTERS tor tank. You then tightened down the radi- and in other features like the “jiggle TAUCK AND GLOBUS FALL FOLIAGE TOURS…HURRY! ator cap and were done. If you did it that valve.” way on your vehicle today, you would PERILLO HAWAII AND ITALY probably end up with a ruined engine. Determining which coolant to use HEADQUARTERS…BOOK NOW! In recent years, many changes have Many types of coolant are commonly been made to vehicle cooling and heating used today so make sure to use the type of DISNEY AND UNIVERSAL PACKAGES systems. A new reverse flow system from coolant that is recommended for your PLAN NOW FOR HOLIDAY TRIPS AND the bottom to top of the radiator allows for vehicle. Check your owner’s manual or more even cylinder block/head tempera- the label found under the hood for speci- EUROPE FALL GETAWAYS tures and faster warm-up, which reduces fications. You will be using a 50/50 Stop in our shop or email us at [email protected] or exhaust emissions and gets the chill out of coolant/water concentration. If you call OUR EXPERIENCED AGENTS TODAY!!! your car faster. Aluminum radiator and removed the lower radiator hose when heater cores, more efficient than the old draining and it is unusable replace it with Rada’s World of Travel copper ones, promote increased engine a factory “spring-type” clamp. Be careful 903 Williams Blvd. • 467-9450 durability and are more compact and if you use a “worm-gear” type clamp, as lighter. Computer designs along with ther- over-tightening can cause the tank fitting moplastic technology have allowed engi- to crack and you will then have to replace neers to make vast improvements. your radiator! In minivans and larger SUVs, rear Shop early, heater units are becoming standard. Dual- Refilling stage thermostats for tighter temperature Follow the refill instructions printed Ship early control, electric fans actuated by the on the under hood label. You should slow- ™ engine management computer and not a ly pour the coolant mixture into the radia- with the UPS Store dedicated fan switch circuit, complex cli- tor and, as the tank fills up, squeeze the mate controls, and long-life coolants are lower radiator hose to activate the “jiggle new innovations. valve.” Finish filling until the coolant Some of the newer technologies have comes out of the dislodged heater/bypass not always been positive for serviceability. hose, its companion fitting or the bleeder Radiator drain plugs are not as accessible screw or screws or until it reaches the top and “air locks” inhibit easy draining and of the filler neck and stays there. Now filling of the system. It is harder to visual- reinstall the hose, tighten the bleeder ly inspect critical components and access screws, and replace the radiator cap. Next, to parts such as thermostats and hoses is fill the reservoir to the full mark. more difficult. But if you take the time, these negatives can be overcome. Run-in In dealing with your new-age cooling Turn your vehicle’s interior temperature system, here are some hints to help you: controls to “hot,” and start the engine. In less than a minute the heater/bypass hoses Drain the system should warm up. After about two minutes, All drain plugs are different. Check to noticeable heat should be coming from the see what type you have. Some require you heater air outlets with the fan set to its slow- to remove the lower radiator hose, a est speed. Make sure the temperature gauge process made easier since the use of plas- does not go past its halfway point without tic radiator tanks. Let the coolant drain heat present at the heater outlets. If no heat into a container with at least a two-gallon is present, shut the engine off and wait ten capacity. Remove the uppermost heater or minutes. Turn the ignition key on and check bypass hose to get maximum drainage. the temperature gauge again. If it has Also, loosen any “bleeder screws.” dropped significantly, slowly and carefully, Check for sludge wearing hand protection, unscrew the radia- The reservoir or overflow bottle needs tor cap to relieve any built up pressure to be drained. Check for sludge deposits before you gingerly remove the cap. You will in the bottom. You may have to remove the have to perform the refill procedure 14 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

★ Home ★ How to handle a structural problem of the framing cannot be seen. Cracks, bulges and portions of the building, identification of any wood other evidence of distress or deterioration are looked deterioration, and any signs of insect and/or rot dam- for to help evaluate the condition of the structure. As age will be observed. Signs of a problem include with any limited inspection, it is possible that there cracked or bowing framing members and soft or are structural deficiencies that cannot be known. deteriorated wood. Any evidence of structural defi- By DAN DORMADY A structural or engineering inspection is above ciencies, and where appropriate, the approximate all, an opinion as to the structural condition or scope of repairs required will be provided. In the aftermath of Hurricana Katrina, homeowners may integrity of the building or home. That is, in the wonder if they have a structural problem with their home, and opinion of the engineer: 1) were the structural ele- Interior/Exterior: The interior and exterior of what they should do about it. Typically, they see cracks in the ments, i.e., foundation, framing, etc., designed and the building will be examined for evidence of dis- foundation slab or settlement of the foundation slab. They might built to accept the anticipated loads or forces placed tress, deterioration, and weather tightness that might see cracks in the drywall or brick veneer and then get concerned upon them, and; 2) are they continuing to perform indicate adverse conditions affecting the structural that there may be a serious problem with their home. Many their intended function? integrity of the building. These conditions include times these conditions are not serious. However, these are all The ability to render such an opinion is funda- cracks in the drywall and/or brick veneer where conditions where a structural inspection by a licensed engineer mental to this definition. By law in most states, only diagonal cracks over windows and doors may indi- may be warranted. Homeowners should recognize the signs of a licensed professional engineer is permitted to ren- cate differential settlement of the foundation. potential structural problems, understand the engineer’s role to der an opinion as to the structural integrity of a build- Evidence of distressed or deteriorated conditions help the homeowner resolve these problems, and what to expect ing. Certainly others may observe and report defects, and their significance, as well as suggested should they hire an engineer to perform a structural inspection i.e., broken members, cracks in a slab, etc., but an approaches to the repair will be provided. of their home. opinion as to their significance can only be rendered Depending on the type of construction, a structural inspec- by an engineer (or in some cases an architect). General: Other items related to the main struc- tion is a visual examination of the foundation (i.e., slab or pier The inspection should evaluate the following ture will be examined, and these may include decks, and beam), the framing, the interior and exterior, and other aspects of the structure, and provide a determination porches, and garages, etc. In addition, engineers related structures, e.g., garage or deck. The evaluation of the of the condition of each: have an ethical duty to report any significant safety structure is based on many indirect observations, however. Most hazards observed during an inspection. Foundation: All accessible/visible portions of the foundation (i.e., slab on grade or piers) will be Limitations: There are some limitations to this examined for evidence of distress and deterioration. type of inspection. A structural or engineering The differential elevation of the foundation should inspection should not be construed as a code inspec- be measured. Signs of distress include cracks in the tion, an inspection for hazardous materials, an slab or piers, leaning piers, and differential slab set- inspection of the heating, cooling, plumbing, or tlement. The significance of any of these conditions electrical systems, a fire safety inspection, or a observed, and where appropriate, suggested repair design plan. ★ approaches to any repairs required will be provided. Dan Dormady, P.E. is a licensed professional Crawl Space Water: Surface drainage conditions engineer and licensed home inspector (LSBHI around the building, evidence of accumulation in the #10273), and the president of Criterium-Dormady crawl space, and the presence of any drainage systems Engineers, a locally owned consulting engineering will be evaluated. A description of any water related firm specializing in residential and commercial condition, the adequacy of drainage, limitation of the building inspection services. Dormady can be inspection, potential risks of water entry, and the reached at 456-6999, P.O. Box 113565 Metairie, LA approximate scope of repairs will be provided. 70011-3565, or at [email protected]. Criterium-Dormady Engineers’ website is www.cri- Framing: Examination of all accessible/visible terium-dormady.com.

REACH YOUR POLITICAL REVIEW TARGET MARKET? (continued from page 4) KENNER CITIZENS? dents will not return to Louisiana, insuring that some We are a locally owned, independently operated, parishes will face certain bankruptcy if not extinction. family funeral home continuing a tradition that has Here in Louisiana, we do not have the luxury of time endured for 119 years! And we believe that makes a THE KENNER because thousands of families need to make speedy great difference in the care, service and value your ★ decisions about their future. Unfortunately, govern- family receives. If you ever have a question or would ST R ment operates at a snail’s pace and unless the like more information feel free to call or stop by. President makes this recovery package a major prior- REACHES ity, it could languish in Congress for months, an out- come that is unacceptable to anyone who survived 20,600 Katrina. ★ Jeff Crouere is a native of New Orleans. Crouere HOUSEHOLDS hosts two local television shows, “ Louisiana Business Spotlight,” on the city of Kenner’s KTV, cable channel IN KENNER 76, and Louisiana-based “Ringside Politics,” which airs at 8:30 p.m. on Friday and 10:30 p.m. on Sunday CALL 468-9125 on WLAE-TV Channel 32, cable channel 14. Visit FOR AD RATES Crouere’s website at www.ringsidepolitics.com and e- mail Crouere at [email protected]. KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 15

★ Police ★ Kenner’s finest shine during Katrina reside outside of the city lost everything. debris. Using backhoes and chainsaws, Missouri National Guard, the New Jersey But through their selfless dedication, they they worked tirelessly to make sure repair Highway Patrol, the New York Police continued to protect our community while crews and relief workers were able to enter Department, Sheriff Greg Champagne and providing the highest level of service. They areas that would have otherwise been inac- the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, are committed to the safety of your family, cessible. Sheriff Wayne Jones and the St. John Parish By NICK CONGEMI your home, and your property. I cannot It is not surprising to see people pull Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Jerry Larpenter Kenner Police Chief express to you how proud I am of these fine together during a tragedy of this magni- and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, men and women. tude, as Louisiana is home to some of the Sheriff Harry Lee and the Jefferson Parish As a lifetime resident of Kenner, I have When the streets of Kenner flooded, it kindest and most thoughtful people you Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Army 82nd seen our city go through many changes created a challenge, but it was one the KPD will ever find. We are also resilient. Here in Airborne Division. over the years. It has grown from some- was prepared to overcome. Through the use Kenner, businesses are re-opening, rebuild- I would also like to thank the many thing small to what it is today – a modern, of the KPD’s deuce-and-a-half trucks, ing efforts are underway, and our quality of businesses that were there to help – progressive city and a great place to call police officers were able to patrol through life is returning. Although the effects of Anheuser-Busch, Domino’s Pizza, Doodie home. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, flooded areas, as they rescued stranded res- Hurricane Katrina were devastating, we are Calls, Inc., DuPont, Fairchild Co. Disposal, however, we were left with a new set of idents and brought them to shelters and already beginning to conquer the chal- Great & Best Produce, Home Depot, challenges many of us have never faced medical facilities. These vehicles were lenges it left behind. Together, we are Humphries Transports, JRS Rentals, Jack’s before. acquired for this very reason – to respond becoming a symbol of hope and progress Bobcat Service, J. Calderera & Co., Metal But during these difficult times, it is to emergencies in the event of a disaster for the entire Gulf Coast region. Fusion, Inc., Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, important to remember what makes Kenner such as Hurricane Katrina. No matter what There are so many wonderful folks I LaBella’s, Langenstein’s, LA Fish, special – the people who live and work disaster befalls us, your police department want to thank who helped make the KPD’s Louisiana Spring Water, McDonald here. We are reminded of this by the caring will always be here to serve and protect mission a success – the American Red Sanitation Services, Mr. Mudbug, Inc., spirit of everyone involved in the recovery you. Cross, the Arkansas Chapter of the Motiva, Rite Aid, Sam’s Club, Sav-A- efforts. I was moved after seeing residents The KPD is committed to keeping the Southern Baptist State Convention Disaster Center, Scott Construction Equipment, who had experienced tremendous losses city safe, and sometimes that means taking Relief Team, Chief Pat Boudreaux and the Stingray’s, Sunshine Equipment, Wal-Mart, help their neighbors before addressing their on additional tasks you may not expect Houma Police Department, the city of Wingfoot Commercial Tire Systems, and own concerns. police officers to perform. For example, Huntsville, Texas and the Huntsville Police Winn-Dixie. These organizations and busi- Many of our police officers and Kenner when Hurricane Katrina’s floodwaters Department, Lieutenant Ken Curlee and the nesses will always be friends of the KPD Police Department employees suffered receded, several groups of police officers Louisiana State Police, East St. John High and we will never forget their generosity. ★ damage to their homes, and some who cleared the roadways of fallen trees and School, the Louisiana National Guard, the Sunshine Equipment donates all terrain vehicle to KPD HuHurricanerricane HelpHelp Money!Money!

COUPON EXPIRES 11-30-05 COUPON EXPIRES 11-30-05

Tires • Alignments • Balancing • Oil Changes Air Conditioner Work • Shocks • Struts • Brake Service • Batteries Belts • Hoses • Tune-Ups • CV Joints • Fuel Injecion Cleaning

Kenner Police Chief Nick Congemi announced a new addition to the Kenner Police Department’s fleet – a Trail Buck 650 Utility All Terrain Vehicle, donated under a special police program by Sunshine Equipment Company of LaPlace. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, store manager Gene Richard contacted Chief 4200 Williams Blvd. Congemi and offered his assistance. “I would like to thank Mr. Richard and Sunshine Equipment for their generous dona- 465-1312 tion,” said Congemi. “This vehicle is another resource the KPD will utilize to serve the 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday people of Kenner.” 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Saturday The KPD will use the vehicle to patrol levees, to maneuver around debris, and to ven- ture into remote areas where police cars may not be able to go. The Trail Buck 650 model www.scottystireauto.com is valued at $7500. ★ 16 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

★ Insurance ★ Children going to college? Make sure they’re protected By BUDDY SEELING were to borrow someone else’s vehicle. amount of protection for his or her personal Buddy Seeling, C.I.C., is vice president of possessions. But, if your child lives off-cam- Aparicio, Walker and Seeling, Inc., an inde- Personal Property pus, you’ll need to purchase a renter’s policy pendent insurance agency located at 4501 It’s that Many college students bring expensive to cover his or her belongings. A renter’s pol- West Napoleon Avenue in Metairie. Seeling time of year items such as a personal computer, printer, icy may also provide liability coverage if can be reached at 883-4111 or via email at again for some and stereo to school. If your child lives in a your child injures someone or causes proper- [email protected]. Visit the company’s of us to send dormitory, or other college housing, your ty damage. ★ website at www.awsinc.com. our children off homeowners insurance should provide an to college. For some time you’ve shielded them from injury and dan- ger, but now they are on their own. However, you can still take steps to be certain that appropriate insurance cover- age will be following them. Let’s talk about three areas of coverage concern: Health, Automobile, and Personal Property. Health Insurance Health coverage is just as important for your college child as it was when he or she lived at home. Accidents, sickness, and rou- tine emergencies may require expensive med- ical treatment. In most cases, you can continue insur- ance for your child using your own family health insurance plan. Most plans will con- tinue to cover full-time students who meet the age requirements of the policy (not over 24 years old). If your plan is a HMO with cover- age restricted to local doctors and hospitals, you may need a separate plan for your child if he or she is attending school out of state. Another option is to buy health insurance from your child’s college. Since plans vary, pay close attention to the cost and coverages provided such as: Amount of deductible and co-payment; extent of coverage; exclusions and limitations, especially if pre-existing conditions are involved; maximum benefit amount provided, and; flexibility regarding healthcare providers. Automobile Insurance When your child goes off to college, it’s also time to review your auto coverage. Your agent can inform you as to how your cover- age and premiums may be affected. If your child owns a car, or you are providing one for them, you probably want to be sure to list him or her on your insurance policy as either a principal or occasional driver. You also want to be sure that coverage will apply if he or she BATTLE FOR THE PADDLE UNITED WAY JAMBALAYA & GUMBO COOK-0FF/KICK-OFF November 10th, 3 - 6 PM, Westbank Bridge Park, Luling $5 per person - all the gumbo & jambalaya you can taste Music & Mingling - Other Refreshments The whole community is invited to help us celebrate

United Way Campaign 2005-06, funding services from July 1, 2006 - June 30, 2007 KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 17 18 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

★ Health ★ ALL DISHES FRESHLY MADE! I TALIAN, How do you thank a country? SEAFOOD, By KEITH M. DARCEY If we can help just a little, it means a lot.” Donations came in 24 hours a day. & STEAKS East School children from Woodland Middle Jefferson School included notes reading “Thinking SERVING HOURS General of you” in their boxes. In the end, they TUESDAY - FRIDAY: Hospital could barely fit everything in two eight- 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. remained een-wheel trucks. There are many examples of support SATURDAY: 3:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. operational throughout from companies, hospitals, and civic SUNDAY: 1:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Hurricane groups. We appreciate them all. Finding a MONDAY: Temporarily Closed Katrina. Even way to thank all these individuals from through the different parts of the country almost roughest seems impossible. moments of So how do we thank them? We found the storm and the uncertainty of the after- the answer in Chief Halpin’s words – our math, our physicians, nurses, and employ- job is to serve the citizens. By dedicating ees were here. ourselves to do the best job we can on a Surviving a storm of this magnitude is daily basis, we will honor each and every the result of yearlong planning and intense donor. We will be here to re-build our preparations. Living through it takes a lit- community. We will be here when you and tle help. Actually, it takes a lot of help. your family need us the most. We will be The images of desperation and despair here to provide the best medical care pos- in our community elicited acts of compas- sible. We will continue to be guided by our sion and kindness from all parts of our core values of quality health care, com- VIDEO POKER Live Entertainment country. Our staff is usually on the giving passion, collaboration, integrity, steward- Wayne Busby end for those who are in need. Being on ship and continual improvement. 3525 Williams Blvd. Fri. & Sat. the receiving end has been truly humbling The citizens of Taylor Mill said that (1 block North of West Esplanade) 5:00 - 9:00 and overwhelming. they knew sending aid to the caregivers in 466-5550 Sun. 1:00 - 9:00 Much like our community, hundreds our hospital was a way to benefit the of EJGH employees have been impacted entire region. We here at East Jefferson with varying degrees of loss. Recognizing General Hospital pledge to make sure they that our employees were in need, help were right. ★ came in by the truckload from all over the country. One town in particular, Taylor Keith M. Darcey is a Communications Mill, Kentucky, adopted our staff. Specialist with East Jefferson General A drive was organized by the Taylor Hospital located at 4200 Houma Mill Fire Department. They hoped the Boulevard in Metairie. Darcey can be town would rally enough support to fill an reached at 889-7110 or at eighteen-wheel truck with clothing, food [email protected]. East Jefferson and cleaning supplies. General Hospital, Louisiana’s first Nurse “I preach it to all the staff and Magnet hospital, is a publicly owned, not- recruits,” said Chief Dennis Halpin of the for-profit community hospital, providing Taylor Mill Fire Department. “Our job is care to the residents of the East Bank of to serve the citizens. From battling fires Jefferson Parish and surrounding commu- The Ice House you know that when they lose it, it’s gone. nities. 2151 WILLIAMS BLVD. (RIGHT BEHIND CAR WASH) ★ Community ★ Monday - Thursday ¥ 7 am - 6 pm/Friday and Saturday ¥ 7 am - 7 pm/Sunday ¥ 8 am - 5 pm 469-3503 24 pk SUITCASE Three candidates qualify for vacant To Go District 2 seat, primary postponed BUD•BUD LIGHT ICE COLD MILLER LITE By ALLAN KATZ owner of two businesses, including COORS LITE KEG BEER Renewed Homes Inc. and Bill & Jerry’s Three candidates have qualified for the Investments Inc. Stagni, a chiropractor, only vacant District 2 Kenner City Council seat served as a co-chairman of Mayor Phil .99 currently filled by interim Councilman Capitano’s Transition Team. 15 PACKAGE Michael McMyne. The primary, however, The Governor’s order suspends gener- 12 pk LONGNECK which had been set for October 15, was al elections both in Jefferson and Orleans BEER postponed by an Executive Order from Parishes “until such time as may be BUD•BUD LIGHT Governor Kathleen Blanco issued on rescheduled.” The Jefferson Parish Clerk MILLER LITE d by Gallon! September 14. The three candidates who of Court’s office reported to the secretary Sol qualified for the race are David Lavarine, of state’s office that having an election on COORS LITE 35, Bill Schwertz, 58, and Joseph Stagni, December 10 was feasible but no date was PROPANE 41. All three candidates are Republicans. set at press time. only 99 Lavarine is a former schoolteacher For more information on the upcoming 8. WE DELIVER who currently owns Creative Graphics & elections, visit the Louisiana Secretary of Imaging. Schwertz is the semi-retired State website at www.sec.state.la.us. ★ KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 19

★ Entertainment ★ Kenner Planetarium and MegaDome Cinema re-open with blockbuster Dolphins After experiencing minor exterior charts Mars from mythology to the histo- opened on October 25, including Cannes Mardi Gras Museum and the Toy Train damage and projector problems due to ry and future of the red planet. The laser Brûlée Native American Village, Science Museum, which will be closed until fur- humidity after Hurricane Katrina, show “Fright Light” features Halloween- Center, Saints Hall of Fame, Fine Arts ther notice. Kenner’s Planetarium and MegaDome themed songs including Thriller, Devil Gallery and the Mardi Gras Museum Gift The Planetarium and MegaDome Cinema officially re-opened on October Went Down to Georgia and Monster Shop. Children’s Castle has also opened Cinema and the Rivertown Museums will 25. Mash, choreographed to dazzling laser offering their typical Saturday shows. be open Tuesdays-Saturday from 9:00 The Department of Community configurations. Repairs continue at three museums, a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information Services, which oversees the facility, pur- Several Rivertown museums re- Space Station Kenner, Treasure Chest and show times, call 468-7231. ★ chased the rights for and fully expected to open MacGillivray Freeman’s Dolphins prior to the storm. Now, after a seven week delay, the MegaDome Cinema will begin daily showings of the spectacular film. “We are so excited to be opening the Planetarium. Fortunately, the damage was minimal, so we can now offer our residents an opportunity to get out and do something fun. The best part is that Dolphins is a movie the whole family will certainly enjoy,” says Mayor Phil Capitano. Arenewed Narrated by Pierce Brosnan with music by Sting, Dolphins takes audiences on an underwater frolic with nature’s most beloved sea creatures through daz- zling coral reefs of the Bahamas to the wind-swept seas of Patagonia. From rarely seen fish-herding behavior to a commitment to close-up look at complex communication activities, Dolphins give audiences a fas- cinating new perspective on the lives of dolphins and their remarkable intelli- gence. Also opening are two news shows: your health. the planetarium sky show “Mars Quest” and the incredible “Fright Light” laser show. “Mars Quest,” narrated by Patrick Stuart, is an amazing sky show that

TREASURE CHEST (continued from page 1)

“Our customers have really welcomed our speedy return,” says Stillwell. “In the wake of 504.468.8600 all that has happened, I think they’re glad for the return of some entertainment and fun. Our goal is to have all our employees return to www.kennerregional.com their jobs and ramp up to our previous levels of business. We really appreciate the special relationship we enjoy with the city of Kenner and share the belief that Kenner will come back better than it has ever been.” ★

KENNER STAR WEBSITE (continued from page 1)

“We wanted a site that would look great and would be easy for our readers to navi- gate,” Lovitt said. “Not only was TCB able to accomplish those goals, but owner Ted Bowden was a pleasure to work with as well.” The Kenner Star is direct mailed free-of- charge to all 20,600 registered voter house- holds in the city of Kenner, with an almost Part of the NOLA Regional Health Network 2,000 additional copies circulated throughout different city locations. For advertising rates and information, call 468-9125. ★ 20 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

★ Community ★ Insurance disputes and other legal issues–when should you consider consulting an attorney? By TROY BROUSSARD (DRC) throughout the state. The types of issues addressed in these free sessions In recent weeks, many in metro New through DRC include: assistance with “ONE OF THE AREA’S FINEST RESTAURANTS” Orleans have learned more than they ever insurance claims (life, medical, property, wanted to know about the inner workings of etc.); counseling on landlord-tenant and the insurance industry and their procedures other housing problems; assistance with for handling claims. Although some insur- home repair contacts; consumer protection ers have actively worked with home and matters; counseling on mortgage foreclo- business owners toward a resolution that sure problems; replacement of wills and Re-Opening November 9 will allow them to rebuild their lives and other important legal documents destroyed livelihoods, for other Katrina survivors the by Katrina; drafting powers of attorney, whole process has left them feeling frus- and; referring individuals to local or state 111 Veterans Blvd. in Heritage Plaza Building trated in the least. agencies which might be of further assis- Open 7 days a week at 4 p.m. for Happy Hour and Dinner While the Louisiana Department of tance. For information, call 1-800-310- Insurance (www.ldi.state.la.us; 1-800-259- 7029, seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Large selection of wine 5300 or 1-800-259-5301) can provide lim- ited relief to insurance policy holders by Should you decide to retain legal coun- enforcing Louisiana’s insurance laws and sel for your post-Katrina concerns, the 3 Large Rooms for Special Occasions, investigating complaints, they can not and Louisiana State Bar Association offers a Holiday Parties and Banquets will not provide you with legal advice lawyer referral service, along with “Helpful regarding your potential claim. So, the hints for working with a lawyer,” on their ■ question remains: at what point does it website http://www.lsba.org/committees/ make sense to involve the services of a lawyer_referral_and_informatio.asp. As Owned by Scott Korndorffer of Chateau Coffee Cafe and lawyer to help you resolve an insurance dis- their top concern, the LSBA recommends George Messina of Messina's Restaurant, pute? Two attorneys from Kenner offer the that you establish up front and in advance Co-owners of Jazz Seafood and Steak House following suggestions. with any attorney what their fee for servic- “An insurance policy is a contract es will be. between you and your insurance company,” If you do ultimately decide to handle said Jim Melchers, senior attorney at things on your own, one lawyer advises to Melchers Law Firm. “Locate and read your remember that good old fashioned patience entire policy, not just the declarations page. and self-control on your part can be a fac- Pay close attention to what is covered and tor in your ultimate success. what is excluded. Call an attorney when “Remember that cordiality is important you do not understand the language of the for the first contacts that you deal with in policy, when the adjuster is refusing to pay any claims process. If you get into a ballis- for covered damages, or when the company tic situation with them, then the whole is unresponsive to your calls.” process can be confounded,” Jerome Volk Jerome M. Volk, Jr., a partner at said. “There’s a certain degree of finesse D’Aquila, Volk, Mullins & Contreras, says that you have to use with the front-line peo- that people should also look for inconsis- ple in order to get to the next stage of where tencies between the way that others are you need to be.” ★ being treated by their insurers and the way Gulf Coast Bank & Trust is dedicated to rebuilding the that their own insurer is handling the claim. communities that suffered the devastating effects of “For example,” Volk said, “if your PATELLOFEMORAL PROBLEMS neighbor across the street is not only get- (continued from page 10) Katrina. You need to look no further than Gulf Coast ting the cost of replacing a refrigerator Bank & Trust for your mortgage needs. from their insurer, but is also getting reim- arthroscopic lateral release can be done to bursed for contents, but your insurer offers release some of the pressure on the patel- TALK TO OUR MORTGAGE LENDERS TODAY AT nothing for your own unusable refrigerator, la and help restore the mechanics of the a flag should go up that signals a need for normal knee joint. ★ 504.599.5720 OR 504.841.7350. further investigation. Sometimes, it’s a mat- ter of taking a harder look at your policy to Luis M. Espinoza M.D. is a Board 100% FINANCING AVAILABLE determine if coverage exists. However, if Certified Orthopedic Surgeon practicing you feel uneasy that you’re getting conflict- at the Orthopedic Center for Sports RENOVATION LOANS ing information from different sources, it Medicine, Physical Medicine and may be time to consult with your attorney Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Espinoza CONSTRUCTION LOANS to help guide you through the process.” serves as a consultant for the Washington Insurance issues, however, form only a Nationals AAA affiliate New Orleans part of the landscape facing those recover- Zephyrs baseball team. The Orthopedic ing from Katrina. For those who have ques- Center is a multi-specialty center dedicat- tions regarding their legal rights on a num- ed to complete musculoskeletal care with Contact us at 1-866-312-9016 ber of storm related topics, the Louisiana focused expertise in shoulder, knee, and For 24/7 access to your accounts, State Bar Association (LSBA), through an non-surgical spine care. Offices are locat- 504-561-6123 or gulfbank.com American Bar Association/Young Lawyers ed in Kenner and Metairie. For additional Division contract with FEMA, has staffed information call 467-5900 or log on to more than 30 Disaster Recovery Centers www.orthodoc.aaos.org/lespinozamd. KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 21

★ Tourism ★ Tourism update after Katrina By SHARON SOLOMON be a totally new hotel at their re-opening in either February or March. New Orleans The Kenner Suites on Veterans Boulevard sustained Convention and major damage and it is unknown at this time Visitors Bureau when they will re-open to the public. is open, work- LaQuinta on Williams Boulevard near ing, and book- Veterans Boulevard is undergoing a major ing new con- renovation and a re-opening is expected in ventions, sport- April 2006 as a new hotel. The Wingate Inn ing tourna- on Veterans Boulevard near the airport run- ments and way sustained very minimal damage and is meetings for housing relief workers. They anticipate 2006 and 2007. opening back up to the public on November It is encourag- 1. Days Inn on Veterans is under renovation ing to note that event coordinators, who had at this time but some rooms are being uti- QUALITYQUALITY planned to visit Kenner with the purpose of lized by relief workers. It is unknown right viewing our facilities to book future events, now when they will re-open to the public are still coming to visit, in spite of Katrina. totally refurbished. New Orleans Airport TREETREE SERVICE,SERVICE,LLCLLC And we also have conventions on the books Hilton across from the airport sustained that are standing by their commitments. minor damage and is under renovation. They As far as our facilities are concerned, I are housing relief workers, and the date of • Tree & Stump Removal want to provide an update on their condi- opening to the public is unknown. Of course, tions. they will open totally refurbished and brand First of all, the Pontchartrain Center sus- new. • Complete Tree Trimming tained major roof damage. After the storm, Best Western Airport next to the Airport Entergy was using it as a staging center but Hilton had minor damage and is housing • Excellence In Large & Dangerous Trees moved out in late October, which allowed relief workers. Motel 6 on Loyola Drive near construction to begin. We anticipate opening the I-10 exit sustained some flooding and • Crane Removal the Center in December to host limited roof damage. They are housing relief work- events, but, by January 2006 the ers and do not anticipate opening to the pub- • Licensed Arborist Pontchartrain Center should be operating lic until the middle of 2006. normally. As you can see, Kenner is moving right Most of the Kenner hotels will be back in along at a fast pace. • Workman’s Comp & Liability Insurance service by January. The Hilton Garden Inn, The Louis J. Roussel Planetarium and located next to the Pontchartrain Center, sus- Megadome Cinema is now open and the • Deep Root Fertilizing tained roof damage and will be like new other museums are coming along well. Some when they re-open. The Fairfield Inn on sustained minor rain damage and repairs are • Termite Control & Eradication 32nd Street also incurred roof damage. going quite smoothly. Our restaurants are Construction started immediately on both also opening quickly. Never before have the hotels. The Radisson Hotel at the corner of words, “Kenner, Everything is Right Here,” • Fungus & Disease Treatment Williams and Veterans Boulevard took on been such a wonderful thing to hear! minor flooding damage. All rooms are Please call me at 464-9494 if you need • 24 Hr. Emergency/ presently being utilized by recovery teams further information, and especially if you Rick Spindel from out of town. The Radisson was totally need a place to host a meeting, trade show or Storm Service (Owner) refurbished before Katrina and will be brand sporting event. We are here! ★ new once again. The Travelodge on Veterans Boulevard sustained flood damage, is hous- Sharon Solomon is the Marketing ing relief teams, and will re-open fresh and Director for the Kenner Convention and clean. Comfort Suites on Idaho Street near Visitors Bureau, located at 2100 Third Street Veterans Boulevard had minimal damage in Rivertown. The KCVB is a non-profit cor- and is housing relief workers. The Holiday poration funded by private membership dues Inn Select on the corner of Williams and and funds from the city of Kenner. Sharon Veterans Boulevard sustained flood damage, Solomon can be reached via email at ken- is aggressively under construction, and will [email protected] or at www.kennercvb.com. Pontchartrain Center Post-Katrina Damage

(504) 466-8011 22 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

KATRINA IN KENNER KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 23

★ Airport ★ It’s finished! Thank you for your patience meeting, Al Naomi of the U.S. Corps of deputies on duty at the airport, with the concourses are open. The New Orleans Engineers was quoted as saying “a deep assistance of special military police Aviation Board pledges to continue to gratitude of thanks is due the airport for forces, did an excellent job in maintain- provide a safe, secure and pleasant facil- this neighborly gesture.” ing order. ity, with a choice of low cost and tradi- The work was part of a $64 million As we look back on the last few tional air carriers. We intend to continue east-west runway rehabilitation project weeks, our lives have been changed for- the development of a strategic master By ROY A. WILLIAMS headed by Boh Brothers Construction ever. Before Katrina, Armstrong plan, defining our role in the rebuilding Director of Aviation Co. Work began in February 2005 and we International Airport was on its way to of the New Orleans Metro area and the Louis Armstrong New Orleans re-opened the runway for relief opera- setting a record 10 million passenger Gulf South. Even after Katrina, a world International Airport tions following Hurricane Katrina, more mark. That has now changed. After class destination still needs a world class than two months ahead of schedule. Katrina, despite millions of dollars of airport. ★ I am happy to announce that the reha- Immediately after the reopening of the damage to our facility and with the hard bilitation of our East-West runway is fin- runway, Boh Brothers resumed work on work of our airport staff, we are rebuild- Roy A. Williams can be reached at ished. As I consider the work that has the floodgate portion of the project to ing service to our community. Most of www.flymsy.com. been done, it is satisfying to know that expedite its completion. Proper planning our airlines have returned and all of our this was more than just the refurbishing and professional site management deliv- of a runway and that the finished product ered a successful, safe project. has benefited our surrounding communi- Armstrong International Airport now ties in so many significant ways. has two refurbished runways that should For example, to enhance flood con- last for the next 25 years (our North- trol, we overfilled the levee at the west South runway was refurbished in 2003). KENNER ORTHOPEDIC & SPORTS THERAPY end of the East-West runway beyond the The local jobs and revenue generated 3921 WILLIAMS BLVD. elevation necessary for current flood pro- from this $64 million dollar project have tection requirements. In 2003, the airport been a benefit to the area economy. We KENNER, LA 70065 and East Jefferson Levee District cooper- celebrate the conclusion of this major 504-443-5152 ated in a temporary lift to the levee to project, on budget and ahead of schedule; protect Kenner during the 2003 and 2004 I want to thank everyone who had a role. hurricane season. The overfill means it Most of all, I want to extend a sincere will be many years before natural subsi- thank you to our neighbors and friends dence requires more work on this portion who have cooperated with us and who of the levee. understand the importance of maintain- Next, the concrete rubble from demo- ing a safe airport facility in our commu- lition of the East-West runway pavement, nity. valued at $3 million dollars, has been Concerning the airport’s vital role provided to the East Jefferson Levee after Hurricane Katrina, I want to com- District for use in levee protection. This mend the staff of Armstrong will allow the East Jefferson Levee International who rode out the storm at District to concentrate their funds on crit- the airport for their heroic efforts in evac- KENNER’S ONLY CHOICE FOR ORTHOPEDIC PHYSICAL THERAPY ical maintenance issues. uating 30,000 stranded residents from the A benefit to Kenner included an metro area. Even though the airport was THERE IS A DIFFERENCE!!!! improvement in drainage through the air- not a designated shelter, it functioned as Se habla Español METAIRIE & WESTBANK LOCATIONS field by increasing the size of the conduit one as well as an evacuation center. for Canal 17 under the runway and two When the 17th Street Canal flooding taxiways. We offered certain fill material began, higher ground was sought by to recent construction projects in the thousands and in the metro area; for area. One such project that needed fill many the airport was the highest eleva- material from the airfield was St. tion. During an early point following the WELLS HOME Elizabeth Ann Seton Church of Kenner. storm’s passing, at the airport, helicop- FARGO MORTGAGE Church Building Committee member ters began dropping off evacuees rescued and parishioner Kenny Meyn, who is from rooftops and flooded streets. As the president of Delta Testing & Inspection rescued crowd grew into the thousands, said, “The 41,418 cubic yards of fill the small airport staff with limited sup- There is a Reason Wells Fargo material obtained from the airport saved plies tirelessly administered aid and com- the church $200,000.” The church paid fort to the sick and the well until suffi- Home Mortgage is one of the Nation’s the trucking costs to move the materials cient federal assistance arrived days later. Leading Retail Mortgage Lenders to their construction site. Things became even more critical when The airport has also purchased and hospitals and nursing care facilities • Wide Selection of Conventional & Government Loans installed a $5 million dollar Flood Gate began transporting their patients to the • Full Range of Affordable Home Loan Programs at the Canadian National Railroad tracks airport for safety. As hundreds of heli- • New Construction & Renovation Programs where they cross the St. Charles Parish copters began to descend on the over- • Quick Loan Decisions Hurricane Protection Levee. Residents of whelmed airport, action was taken to • Responsive Service and Professional Expertise St. Charles Parish should feel the benefit transport the evacuees by plane and bus 1900 W. Esplanade, Suite 203, Kenner, LA 70065 of this unprecedented Aviation Board to adequately staffed areas of refuge. At expenditure by next hurricane season, if one point, Armstrong International Mickey King Donna Nold Lynn Hines Susan Vrbaskovich not before. With the Flood Gate operable, Airport was the busiest airport in the Branch Manager Home Mtg. Consultant Home Mtg. Consultant Reverse Mortgage temporary sand bag dikes should not be world with 3,800 operations in a day (by 504-468-4163 504-468-4161 504-468-4164 504-468-4165 required for flood protection along comparison Hartsfield/Jackson Airport Airline Drive. The Flood Gate provides in Atlanta has 2,600 a day). I am pleased the last link in the protection of St. to report that the problems of crime and Charles Parish residents and their proper- terror that were reported at other loca- ty in the areas along Airline Drive. At a tions, did not take place at the airport. recent Regional Planning Committee The small number of Jefferson Parish 24 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

★ Law ★ The role of interdiction in Louisiana severe head injuries. The doctors are not sure business affairs. There are two types of inter- inappropriate must be addressed. The peti- that he will come out of the coma. Johnny diction, full and limited. A full interdiction is tion must include the names and addresses of has not executed a General Procuration or a a procedure wherein a person is deprived of the spouse and of all adult children, or if Special Limited Medical Power of Attorney his right to make any and all decisions rela- there are none, the names and addresses of designating someone as his agent. What can tive to his person and his property (busi- his parents and siblings or, if there are none, we do for Johnny? Is an interdiction neces- ness). A limited interdiction is a procedure the name and address of his nearest adult rel- By JAMES L. MELCHERS sary? What exactly is “interdiction?” wherein a person is deprived of his right to ative. Interdiction is a court decree by which a make decisions relative to his person or his Also notices must be mailed to those per- Johnny is a 20 year old student at LSU person is deprived of the exercise of his civil property. This may seem like the same thing, sons with a “possible” interest in the defen- who was gravely injured in a car accident rights because the court has determined that but the key word is “or.” The full interdiction dant’s interdiction. All persons named in the and has been in a coma for 90 days with he is unable to handle his personal and/or his takes away all rights, and the limited inter- petition must receive a copy of the order fix- diction is one or the other, meaning that cer- ing a hearing or trial by first class mail, tain personal rights can be taken away or cer- postage prepaid, to the last known address at tain business rights, but not both. least ten days prior to the hearing or trial. Deep South Enterprises Grandpa Jones is in the beginning stage of Interdiction proceedings are heard 2835 Virginia St., Kenner, LA 70062 Alzheimer’s disease or early dementia, or per- promptly and by preference. However, if the haps he has had a stroke or been in an acci- court finds that immediate and irreparable José Buezo 504-416-2113 • Vinnie Buezo 504-382-2160 dent, resulting in certain limited brain func- injury, loss, or damage will result to the per- Fax 504-441-7999 tions. Grandpa has not executed powers of son or property of the potential interdict attorney to anyone. Grandpa can currently before a hearing can be held, the court can Specializing in Labor Workers, Sheet Rockers, Asbestos Workers take care of himself, but he cannot make rea- order a temporary interdiction without Do Demolition, Construction and Mold Remediation soned decisions or communicate such deci- notice and without an adversarial hearing. In sions concerning his business affairs. A limit- that order, the court will schedule a prelimi- Have projects all over the country ed interdiction may be appropriate for a few nary interdiction hearing which must be Parent Company Bayou Abatement, Inc. years. In the case of an accident or a stroke, held within ten days. The preliminary Grandpa may never get any worse and may injunction is for a ten day period, which the Bi-lingual Owners • 10 Years in Business always be able to care for himself personally. courts can extend for one additional period Projects from 5 workers to 1,000 plus Likewise, someone with a severe physical dis- not to exceed ten days. ability may have a sharp mind and be able to All individuals should consider execut- CAN DO PAYROLL IF NEEDED ON ANY JOB communicate, but may not be able to take care ing a General Procuration wherein the indi- INSURED AND BONDED of his person. Therefore, a limited interdiction vidual gives another person the right to han- of both of these persons is appropriate. dle his business and personal affairs should The preference under the law and with he become disabled and unable to do so him- judges is to impose the least restrictive self, as well as a Special Limited Medical means when dealing with the civil rights of Power of Attorney and a Living Declaration. the potential interdict. Interdiction is In conclusion, a full interdiction is seen defined in terms of the person being able to as a last resort. The order for the limited make reasoned decisions regarding the care interdiction will detail the interests being of his person and/or property and communi- taken away from the interdict and conferred cating those decisions. Chronic substance upon the curator. To the extent that the order abuse can be a reason to institute interdic- does not cover an interest of the interdict, the tion proceeding, but advanced age alone is interdict retains the capacity of a person who not a reason. is not interdicted. Upon a full interdiction the court must Post-Katrina note: We have all been appoint a curator, who acts on behalf of the through such a traumatic experience. In the interdict to represent him on all matters con- course of a few hours our lives changed dra- 3632 Florida Ave. • Kenner cerning the care of his person and his prop- matically. I hope you are all on a road to erty. The curator must not only exercise rea- recovery even though it appears to be a 466-3625 sonable care, diligence, and prudence, but rather long path for many of us. I know that shall act in the best interest of the interdict. none of this caught God by surprise and that The curator will consider the interdict’s pre- He is watching over His children. There will interdiction expressions, such as wills or be many blessings through this struggle even powers of attorney. The curator will consid- though we may not recognize them until a er the interdict’s preferences as to his reli- later time. $100 Professional gious beliefs and his values as to the extent It is extremely important that you docu- Need Something to Tray Tooth Whitening that they are known. At the same time that ment all of your losses through a written the curator is appointed, the court appoints inventory and pictures with a date, if possi- Smile About? A healthy White Smile is a Beautiful Smile an undercurator who acts as a “checks and ble. This will be important in dealing with Special offer includes: New Patient balance” on the curator in that if he dis- your insurance companies. Examination, Necessary x-rays, Consultation, agrees with the actions of the curator, there My office sustained structural damage, Whitening Trays and Products will be a special hearing with the judge but will re-open as soon as possible. In the assigned to the case to discuss the issues. meantime, I can be reached at 236-1933, Make it a Healthy White Smile Procedurally, there are certain guidelines 388-2680 or 225-757-5270. ★ Call Today 456-0964 which must be adhered to in an interdiction proceeding. Each detail will not be listed James L. Melchers is the senior attorney Family Dentistry here, but it is significant to note several of at Melchers Law Firm, located at 909 West Dr. H. “Brad” Bradford III importance. In the petition for interdiction, Esplanade Avenue in Kenner and the firm’s Dr. Sandra J. Catchings the petitioner must state the reasons why primary areas of practice are estate plan- 4420 Conlin St., Suite 204 interdiction is necessary, including a descrip- ning, wills, trusts, successions, real estate, Metairie, LA 70006 tion of the nature and extent of the alleged corporate law, and personal injury. Melchers infirmities. If a full interdiction is sought, can be reached at 467-1092 or visit the web- Expires November 30, 2005 OFFER LIMITED TO FIRST 50 PATIENTS the reasons why a limited interdiction is site at www.melcherslawfirm.com. KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 25

★ Health ★ Overuse injuries in the young athlete lent in recent years. The magnitude of youth trauma that leads to inflammation and/or can be avoided by recognizing and under- sports participation in the United States is local tissue damage. The tissue damage can standing the factors that contribute to these overwhelming. There are approximately 35 result in tendonitis, stress fracture, synovitis, injuries. Proper pre-season training to million children and young adults between entrapment syndromes, and ligament strains. improve flexibility, conditioning, and the ages of six and 21 participating in sports. These injuries are most likely to occur when strength is vital to help avoid injury. Having Training for these sports has become more the athlete changes their intensity or duration the proper coaching available is also critical By CRAIG GOODWIN sport-specific and nearly continuous, while of training, and when the athlete is not well to avoid repetitive stress injury and injury overuse injuries are now common among conditioned or instructed in the proper from improper mechanics in sport-specific When looking at the sports world for the young athletes. A recent study has shown that mechanics of performing their sport. There activities. young male or female athlete, our society in 30 percent to 50 percent of all pediatric are many factors, both intrinsic and extrinsic, As parents, we must protect our young regard to training has become one of “more is sports injuries are due to overuse and occur that contribute to overuse injury. Some intrin- athletes and, most of all, we must allow them better.” Isolating a young athlete in one sport twice as often as acute injuries. sic factors include: growth of the athlete in to mature in their sport while not pushing with year-round training has become preva- Overuse injuries result from repetitive which their growth cartilage becomes sus- them to become superstars at too young an ceptible to repetitive stress, inflexibility, mus- age. Pushing our children too hard at a young cle imbalance/weakness, prior injury, and age while expecting too much success early ★ ★ inadequate conditioning. Some extrinsic fac- can not only lead to overuse injuries during the Community tors include: too-rapid training progression year, but cause that young athlete to “burn- and/or inadequate rest, inappropriate equip- out” and lose motivation to participate at all. ★ ment, incorrect sport technique/mechanics, Household hazardous waste training on hard or uneven surfaces, and adult Craig Goodwin, Physical Therapist, is or peer pressure to succeed. president of Kenner Orthopedic and Sports to be collected separately Some of the most common overuse Therapy, located at 3921 Williams Boulevard injuries seen in young athletes are “little and two other locations in Metairie and on In conjunction with the city of gases or other health hazards. If a con- league elbow” or injury to the medial com- the West Bank. Goodwin graduated from LSU Kenner, the EPA, the Louisiana tainer is leaking, place it in a bag sepa- partment of the throwing elbow in the over- Medical School Department of Allied Health, Department of Environmental Quality rately as shown in the white bag as indi- hand thrower, shin splints in the running ath- Department of Physical Therapy in 1987. The and local officials will be picking up cated in the picture (to the left of the lete, shoulder tendonitis in the swimmer, professionals at Kenner Orthopedic & Sports household hazardous waste (HHW) in HHW materials). knee pain in the female athlete, and low back Therapy can be contacted via email at Kenner over the next few weeks. HHW The EPA will be working in Kenner should not be placed in garbage or debris throughout the next few weeks. An exact pain in the gymnast. Most of these injuries [email protected]. piles. schedule of the pick-ups is not available. EPA officials stress that this type of Residents are simply asked to put their waste, which has been contaminated by HHW out now and it will be picked up as floodwater or has otherwise been dam- soon as possible. Most of all, EPA asks aged and needs disposal, must be collect- for your patience. HHW collection is a ed separately. Therefore, residents are monumental task. urged to place it curbside adjacent to Examples of materials to be collected other garbage piles so that it is easily include: batteries, paint and workshop spotted by EPA teams. supplies, cleaning and pool supplies, Edward Nikolaus, Jr. In addition, residents are encouraged lawn and garden products, indoor pesti- Owner to clearly mark the hazardous waste by cides and thermometers, automotive placing a sign on the materials with the products and other household chemicals. letters “HHW” (see photo) to indicate To prevent further environmental damages, that it is household hazardous waste. Do please do not dump these materials down not mix materials in bags or boxes. drains or into streets. For more information, Simply place them side by side on the call 1-800-401-1327 or visit www.deq. curb. This will ensure that chemicals do louisiana.gov/assistance/recyclingor not mix and produce potential harmful www.epa.gov. ★ Over 25 Years Experience • Works With Any Insurance Company • Lifetime Warranty WORLD CLASS COLLISION AND DETAIL CENTER 2835 Virginia Street • Kenner • 467-7775

Join Us For An Event— We Invite Your Membership. THE KENNER PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION’S (KPWA) MEETINGS WILL BE HELD AT THE GRAND BALLROOM – THE RADISSON NEW ORLEANS AIRPORT HOTEL 2150 Veterans Boulevard in Kenner

Call 962-3930 to make luncheon reservations Networking begins at 11:30 a.m. Lunch at noon. Info: 962-3930 26 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

★ Sports ★ Of character and integrity courtship of San Antonio should embarrass another city from the age of three until she majeure” clause, allowing the team to leave if him. Make no mistake about it. Benson wants went to college at Texas A&M. That would be the Superdome were not available due to an to relocate his NFL franchise. He wants to San Antonio, Texas. “act of God,” kicked in after Katrina. The depart his hometown, the town in which he The NFL is a business. It is big business. subsequent bogus lawsuit filed by Benson was educated, the town in which he was In addressing the issue at the Saints-Dolphins claiming that the Saints training facility, fully raised, the town in which he made his mil- game at Tiger Stadium, Paul Tagliabue allud- subsidized by the state (the Saints pay $1 per By KEN TRAHAN lions, the town and state which he received ed to the fact that the NFL has been a well- year to lease the property) was too damaged millions upon millions of dollars from con- run business for nearly a century and would to utilize, providing yet another out in the Like so many of you, I have countless cessions and the business that he has operat- continue to be responsible in that mission. All deal with New Orleans and the state of stories to share about my experience with ed for 21 years, the New Orleans Saints. Mr. businesses exist to survive and thrive, but you Louisiana. A thorough investigation by trust- Katrina. From being displaced due to a dam- Benson’s actions have spoken clearly – from already knew that. Will our area recover suf- worthy Superdome Commission Chairman aged home to staying at five different loca- filing suit concerning a bogus claim of hav- ficiently in three to five years to support an Tim Coulon, accompanied by state and feder- tions, the experience has provided enormous ing an unsuitable practice facility to forego- NFL franchise in appropriate fashion? That is al officials, revealed that the facility received perspective in the growth of my faith-based ing NFL rules to discuss and negotiate with the question league officials and owners want very minimal damage from Hurricane existence. It has steeled my resolve to endure San Antonio officials about relocating, to to have answered, but, unlike Benson, they Katrina and occupation by federal officials and prosper by remaining steadfast in my keeping his team out of Metairie, and to appear poised to give us a chance while pro- following the storm. They deemed the train- beliefs. In the process, though I have not offending media and fans from New Orleans, viding funding to assist the process of help- ing facility and offices available for immedi- always succeeded, I have attempted to pro- there is telling evidence of his intentions. ing the Saints. New Orleans was the forty- ate use. Considering that the Saints do not vide a strong tower for my children, filled Of course, none of this should come as a third ranked television market in the United play another game in San Antonio until with character and integrity. surprise to those of us who have paid atten- States prior to Hurricane Katrina, consistent- Christmas Eve, late October would have been Character and integrity are revealed in tion to what has occurred over the past few ly one of the bottom three rated markets for a perfect time to return home, train and work tough times. Characters and intolerables are years. Systematically, he has divested himself an NFL team. In post-Katrina New Orleans, at the inhabitable headquarters, and allow unmasked. Many have provided countless of all other business ties, including his auto- that number has dropped significantly. So, players to return to their respective homes. items in an outpouring of love, caring, and mobile empire. Sources tell me that he has too, have ticket sales, both pre and post- That made too much sense. Benson’s true Christian giving. I will be forever grateful to been unhappy with New Orleans since not Katrina. Is this revelation due to market size motives should be fairly obvious through the my brother Craig, who has housed my fami- receiving further subsidization from and a lack of Fortune 500 companies? team’s absence in Metairie. ly, and to my best friends, Ed and Robin Louisiana in the form of a new stadium. The Consider the fact that under the masterful Meanwhile, sickened residents of a Daniels, who continue to feed us like pigs. proverbial sword of Damocles has been hang- guide of Arnold Fielkow and with the assis- stricken area are left to sift through the rubble Williams Boulevard Baptist Church has been ing over the franchise’s future in New tance of Connie Kowal, the Saints sold out 36 of their homes, businesses, jobs, and lives. wonderful, providing access to FEMA and Orleans for quite some time now. First, there consecutive games. They did so despite hav- Benson has done everything imaginable to Red Cross monetary assistance as well as was the flirtation with the Gulf Coast of ing an alleged pitiful stadium to play in, alienate fans and potential fans from buying with Blue Roof instructions. There are so Mississippi. In recent times, even prior to the despite having only one Fortune 500 compa- into his product. Some whom I’ve spoken to many other wonderful people, but I don’t hurricane, there was the leverage of threaten- ny, and despite being one of the lowest rated tell me they found the process of exchanging want this to be an Academy Awards accept- ing a move to San Antonio, where he has markets in the NFL. Then there’s the fact that their season tickets for tickets in Baton ance speech. This is supposed to be a sports family and business ties that have spanned over the past four and a half seasons, the Rouge virtually an impossible task. Others column. decades. Saints were a less-than-mediocre 34-37 on found it almost impossible just to buy tickets. With this as a backdrop, the character and Let us not forget that Mr. Benson is a 77- the field, without a playoff appearance since I wonder if that was the case in the two games integrity of Tom Benson has been exposed. year-old man. For the past couple of years, he the magical 2000 season. in San Antonio thus far? Over 61,000 fans Despite damage control, in the form of has been preparing to abdicate his throne, Immediately after Katrina and the levee (we are told) attended the game against donating monies to the Hurricane Katrina turning it over to his granddaughter, 28-year- breaches submerged New Orleans into a Miami in Baton Rouge. An estimated 1,000- relief fund and for providing tickets for dis- old Rita Benson LeBlanc. When considering soiled quagmire, Benson made it known that 2,000 more left the stadium frustrated, unable placed New Orleanians, the damage has the future of the Saints, consider this. Though he wanted to abandon his hometown for the to wait in lines for up to two hours to redeem already been done. Benson’s shameless born in Houma, Louisiana, LeBlanc lived in greener pastures of San Antonio. He has done tickets THAT THEY HAD ALREADY PAID absolutely nothing to quell this conclusion, FOR. New Orleans city councilman Oliver with the exception of a vaguely worded lame Thomas was among those waiting in line. To full-page ad in the form of a letter placed in say the least, considering Benson’s desire to The Times-Picayune and similarly vaguely depart New Orleans, this calamity of not worded TV ads. Fielkow protested in strong being prepared to or able to handle the situa- fashion and was strong-armed out the door tion is curious at best. CENTURY despite the millions that he made for Benson. Fortunately, Tagliabue did provide great Kowal was undeservingly forced to resign. hope for New Orleans and Louisiana. After Benson and LeBlanc now serve as marketing an encouraging meeting with Benson, TITLE directors for the franchise, no doubt saving Governor Kathleen Blanco, New Orleans money. The preponderance of their marketing Mayor Ray Nagin, Lieutenant Governor efforts have yet to reach Baton Rouge. Mitch Landrieu, Coulon, Senator Ken Hollis “WE CLOSE REAL ESTATE San Antonio Mayor Phil Hardberger has and others, Tagliabue met the media just prior TRANSACTIONS FOR YOU” served as a mouthpiece, a virtual spokesper- to the start of the football game. When asked RANDY LOVITT son for Benson in recent weeks. Hardberger how strong the NFL’s commitment to New Notary Public has voiced Benson’s desire to relocate his Orleans was, Tagliabue’s response was imme- Real Estate Sales, Mortgages, team and his own confidence in the deed to diate: “Very strong.” Among other things, Donations, 1031 Tax Free Exchanges be done. Unfortunately for New Orleans, a Tagliabue took Benson to task for courting deal signed during the administration of for- San Antonio on a permanent basis: “Teams ¥ Expert Closing Assistance — In Operation over 11 years mer Governor Mike Foster has blown up big- don’t operate as free agents so they can run ¥ In-House Problem Solving Real Estate Title Attorneys — You’ll need this time on us. Gaudy payments by the state to around the country and play where they want ¥ We keep you Informed — We return your Calls Benson were difficult to make even prior to to play,” said Tagliabue. “The Saints are ¥ Convenient Locations — Free validated Parking the storm. Now, they are impossible to meet, Louisiana’s team. We’re dealing with a • Our Costs are Competitive — Our Work is Accurate allowing an escape clause for a price of $81 rebuilding here, and we’re going to make METAIRIE NORTHSHORE million dollars for Benson to leave prior to every effort to keep the New Orleans Saints the 2006 season. Of course, it was Fielkow as Louisiana’s team.” The concept of expand- One Lakeway Center 830-7979 209 Highway 22 West, Suite G 3900 N. Causeway Blvd., Suite 605 FAX Madisonville, Louisiana 70447 who presided over this one-sided deal for ing to become a more regional franchise with Metairie, Louisiana 70002 831-2609 Benson, who displayed his appreciation by a different name was raised by the sacking Fielkow. In addition, a “force continued on page 33 KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 27

★ Entertainment ★ Carpentry Plumbing Painting Sheetrock Repair Rivertown Repertory Theatre Robert Bellaci’s announces 2005/2006 season General Maintenance, Inc. The Rivertown Repertory Theatre will launch its The Jungle Book Residential - Commercial 2005/2006 theatrical season on Friday, December 2, 2005. Season Tickets for the Family Series are $24 for adults Insured The new season, revised after Hurricane Katrina, includes and $15 for children. Full season tickets for the Main five productions including three musicals and two plays Stage Productions and the Family Series are $119 for Locally Owned & Operated for 21 Years on the main stage. adults and $100 for seniors and students. Individual ticket Dec 2-18, 2005 prices for the short version of Cinderella on weekday per- Cinderella formances are $15 for adults, seniors and students and $10 Robert Bellaci Jan. 13-29, 2006 for children ages three through 12. Tickets for The Jungle Certified Electrician 468-2444 Nunsense II Book are $12 for adults, seniors and Students and $8 for Jeff Parish Licensed contractor 559-9225 March 10-26, 2006 children ages three through 12. The Odd Couple “The Rivertown Repertory Theatre complex was for- March 3-Apr 9, 2006 tunate to survive Hurricane Katrina and our family of Home Computer Slow? Greater Tuna employees, artists, actors and volunteers are now prepar- May 12-28, 2006 ing to open the season on December 2, 2005,” said Charles South Pacific Ward, executive director and producer. “As all of us focus Season ticket prices are now on sale at $95 for adults our thoughts on each of our individual families, our fami- WE CAN HELP! and $85 for seniors and students (discounted from ticket ly of friends, communities and businesses and family of We specialize In Onsite Computer Service. sale prices at the door) and include an option to purchase artists and actors, we thought best to focus the energy of a pre-performance dinner. Seating for dinner is limited the theatre re-opening with a family production. Toward VIRUS PROTECTION & REMOVAL and season ticket holders have first option to purchase din- this end, we will open with a family musical, Disney’s SPYWARE REMOVAL ¥ FIREWALLS ner tickets. Rivertown Repertory Theatre has contracted Cinderella, a full version of the beloved tale that has HOME & OFFICE INTERNET SHARING with Messina’s Restaurant and Catering, an establishment delighted generations, with all the enchanting music and NETWORKS ¥ WIRELESS of over 38 years, to provide cuisine and service. Season lyrics from the Disney film, starring Courtney Andersen SERVER & WORKSTATION ¥ REPAIR & UPGRADES subscribers are provided a $2 discount on dinner tickets as Cinderella, Gary Rucker as Anastasia, Sean Patterson DSL and SPRINT WIRELESS INTERNET priced at $16, while the normal price is $18 per dinner. as Drizella and Ann Porter as The Fairy Godmother. Tickets for Cinderella, Nunsense II and South Pacific are Because we were one of few theatres to remain intact and $25 for adults, $22 for seniors and students, and $12 for have the ability to launch our season, we feel compelled to children ages six through 12. Tickets for The Odd Couple fulfill this mission to enhance the recovery of the theatre and Greater Tuna are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors and industry for all in the metropolitan area.” 616-8030 students and $10 for children ages six through 12. Ward also announced an effort to support the New Tickets can be obtained by calling the Box Office at Orleans arts community as well. “A fundraiser is now 468-7221 between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Tuesday ongoing to assist actors, artists and other theatres and arts through Friday, and may be charged by phone with Visa organizations in need,” Ward said. “As you join our fami- and Mastercard. ly of patrons at our first production in December, we ask TAKE A DUMP, LLC On December 1, 2005, Rivertown Repertory Theatre that if you are able, please consider helping our family of opens the Family Series with Imagine Theatre For Children, artists who have lost so much in this disaster. We will have with two musicals from Music Theatre International’s a Holiday tree with angels that contain the names of “We Haul Your Loads” Disney Collection, complete with all the beloved characters artists, theatres in need and the Arts Council of New and treasured songs from the classic Disney films, directed Orleans. If you can fulfill their need for supplies, materi- 504-443-5505 by “Uncle Wayne“ Daigrepont. als or funds, feel free to take that angel home with you and Dec 1-18, 2005 help that artist, theatre or organization. If you are aware of Cinderella an artist, theatre or organization in need and would like to Refuse Container Leasing, A shorter version for our young patrons have their name on our tree, please have them contact us Delivery & Pickup March 29-April 1, 2006 at our email address, [email protected].” ★ Locally Owned & Operated Live theatre returns to Metairie www.takeadumpllc.com Actor’s Theatre of New Orleans, the city’s newest decided on All In The Timing because it is a laugh-until- theatre, reopens this November with David Ives’ hilari- you-cry kind of play where you can sit back and just ous comedy All In The Timing. The play, which was an enjoy it. We’re saving the dramas for later next year.” Off-Broadway hit, is a series of four comic sketches. The cast includes Stacy Taliancich, Vicki Lovelace, Window Screens Made & Installed Artistic Director Rene Piazza met with his commit- Michael Sullivan and Leon Contavesprie. Performances tee to decide the fate of the theatre after Hurricane are at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday through Saturday from PATIO COVERS ¥ ROOFING ¥ GLASS-ENCLOSED ROOMS Katrina. The theatre sustained damage, but has since November 3 until November 19 with a Sunday matinee been repaired. “I think what made us want to reopen the on November 6 at 2:00 p.m. The theatre is located on most was the dozens of phone calls from our audience the second floor of the WTIX-FM building at 4539 N. ¥ Pool Enclosures ¥ Patio Covers members asking when we would be back. They are des- I-10 Service Road behind the Target store in Clearview ¥ Carports ¥ Glass Rooms perate for something to do at night,” says Piazza. “We Mall. For ticket information call 456-4111. ★ ¥ Insulated Rooms ¥ Room Additions ¥ Replacement ¥ Screened Rooms Windows ¥ Vinyl Siding Kenner Christmas Village opens November 26 ¥ Gutters The city of Kenner kicks-off the holiday season on organizations who will offer hamburgers, nachos, hot LICENSED & FULLY INSURED Saturday, November 26 at 5:30 p.m. with an opening dogs, funnel cakes, hot chocolate, face painting, and OVER 35-YEARS EXPERIENCE IN THE NEW ORLEANS AREA night celebration for the annual Christmas Village in pictures with Santa, plus train rides. Veteran’s Park adjacent to City Hall. Mayor Capitano, The park is open nightly, with the cottages, train TRIPLE BBB CONSTRUCTION along with Santa and other holiday characters, will rides, and Santa every Friday through Sunday from 2158 Kenner Ave. FREE “switch on” the thousands of lights throughout the 5:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. through Christmas. 504-467-6998 park. The village cottages are run by local non-profit For more information, call 468-7293. ★ ESTIMATES 28 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

★ People ★ On the road again minds off what was happening back home. that we had very little damage at all. While “I’m so sorry.” I pulled into John And, of course, like all trips to see the god- we were laboring to clean out the mess in Henderson’s State Farm to ask for direc- parents, we ate well, and on the house. the fridge, a good Samaritan came along, tions, and related to Mr. Henderson what It took me a while to realize that I was handed us a bag of ice and a shiny leaflet had just happened. He apologized profuse- an “evacuee.” Outside of a Wal-Mart I that said “vote for me” for Kenner city ly and gave me a job lead if I needed it. I By ED CLANCY noticed a girl with a glass fishbowl con- council. didn’t, but that was even better than “I’m taining money. Not thinking, I pulled out a Come the 6:00 p.m. curfew, Alex drove sorry.” I was not surprised that Fats Domino dollar and put it in, asking “What’s this to Jackson, Mississippi to enroll in Milsaps Georgia was an unexpected delight, and decided to ride out Katrina at his house. He for?” Then I saw the sign about Katrina College. I headed northeast. Around three I spent a lot of time walking in the piney loved that house. He grew up in the Ninth donations. in the morning, I found a Motel 6 with a woods in a mold-free environment. The Ward, and rarely left his home for extended “Oh, I just gave a dollar to myself,” I vacancy in Tuscaloosa. I went to breakfast kindness of strangers was just as evident as periods except for road gigs. Fats was res- said to the girl. She leaned over to her at the Waffle House, and, after enjoying my in Texas. Mike Ward and Tim Yonkers, who cued from the rising waters by boat from friend and whispered, “Oh, he’s from bacon and eggs and large orange juice, I worked for a company called In Concert, the third story of his home, and wound up there.” Then to me, she said, “Oh, we’re so inquired about a free refill. did about $200 dollars worth of audio pro- in Baton Rouge at the apartment of LSU very sorry.” “Not on the orange juice,” said my duction work for me, and, when I pulled out quarterback JaMarcus Russell. At the Bank One, I mentioned to the crusty waitress. Employing my best puppy my cash, insisted that it was “on the house.” I like my house, but not that much, and teller I was from New Orleans and he said, dog look, I said (shamelessly), “Not even I realize my hurricane adventure does- since I had two teenage daughters and a cat “Oh, cool!” Then he caught himself. “Oh for an evacuee?” She smiled and I got my n’t have the drama of being rescued from a to look out for, I caught the contra-flow to I’m sorry.” orange juice. rooftop, or riding a pirogue down North San Antonio, where we stayed with the Although he didn’t realize it, he was Then it was on to suburban Atlanta to Claiborne, but it was heartening just the girls’ godparents, Kathy and Robert actually commenting on New Orleans stay with my friend, Guy King, and his wife same. Rodriguez. We watched the tube over the “before,” and “after.” Susan. More good food, more entertain- For a lot of my friends the homecoming next few days as the “City That Care Finally, it was time to go back to ment, (this time at a bar called Hiram was tragic, as it may well have been for Forgot” was washed away. Kenner to see what had happened to our Station where the patty melts are leg- you. Robert decided to play entertainment neighborhood. I put my daughter, Liz, a endary), and more much needed consola- I know just how lucky we were. director and took me and the girls to see junior at Grace King, and Ozzie the cat, on tion from good friends. To pay for my keep, It’s good to be home in Kenner, and, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not museums, and a plane for Norfolk, Virginia where they I volunteered to house-sit and feed the dogs one of these days, I hope Fats Domino will the Alamo. Those were probably the last stayed with Liz’s mom. Her sister Alex, and the cats while Guy and Susan took a be back in a recording studio “Walkin’ to places we should have been using for diver- who would have been a sophomore at couple of weeks off. New Orleans.” ★ sion, but they actually helped take our Loyola, and I, drove back to Kenner to see One day I drove into the nearby town of Dallas, Georgia. A guy in a pickup behind Ed Clancy is the host of “Kenner, me was trying to drive into my trunk, Everything’s Right Here,” on KTV, Channel apparently. When we reached the stoplight 76 on Cox Cable/Jefferson Parish. Clancy in town, he turned off, but before he did he can be reached via email at yelled, “Go Home!” [email protected]. Gee, that sounded a lot different than

KEVIN DELAHOUSSAYE Kenner as well as helping to draw in our (continued from page 1) share of new businesses that can grow in our area and provide jobs and opportunity. I best uses of a person’s time and energy. My combine the experience of one who works commitment to community service began with those who wish to invest in our com- the moment that I decided to raise my fam- munity with the solid intention of protect- ily here.” ing the integrity of our neighborhoods,” He currently serves as president-elect said Delahoussaye. “I am also committed to of the Chateau Estates Lakefront Civic work side by side with every member of the Association. Delahoussaye, a Republican, 2006 City Council and the city administra- is also a member of the Pelican Pachyderm tion to achieve the goal of helping Kenner Club and the Louisiana Notary Association. prosper.” ★ He is past president of the Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Home and School Association, current secretary of the Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton School Board and has been a volun- “Hurricane Relief teer basketball, baseball and volleyball coach at Muss Bertolino Playground. Fraud Hotline” Delahoussaye currently serves on the Jefferson Parish Lafreniere Park Advisory Board, the Jefferson Parish Film and Digital Residents and business Media Presidential Advisory Committee owners who have knowl- and the Jefferson Parish Economic Development Committee. He also serves as edge of fraud can call !" a notary for the parishes of Jefferson, 1-866-720-5721 or send #"$%#$ Orleans and St. Bernard. a fax to 1-703-604-8567, $#$'"""# He and his wife, Robin, have an 11- $()*))*)) year-old daughter, Taylor. or email the hotline at
   “It is of great importance that our city [email protected] Williams Office 4140 Williams Blvd., Kenner, LA 70065 contribute to the region’s recovery by both '                      maintaining our existing business base in KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 29

★ Latin American News ★ Retirement Planning Associates Certified Retirement Financial Advisors™ Hurricane Katrina - learning “We repair broken retirement accounts.” in the wake of destruction Specializing in: ¥ 401(k) and 403(b) rollovers National Flood Insurance Program. Flood insurance is available for up to $250,000 for the building itself and ¥IRA to Roth IRA conversions $100,000 for its contents. ¥ CD alternatives By RAFAEL E. SADDY 3. You can buy flood insurance no matter what ¥Market Index Annuities your flood risk is. It doesn’t matter whether your flood As we prepared for evacuation away from the path risk is high or low, you can buy flood insurance as long of Hurricane Katrina, little did we know that we were as your community participates in the National Flood Call Ron Hampton going to be displaced from our homes for as long as we Insurance Program, and ours does. And it’s a good idea were. We also never imagined that our lives would be to buy even in low or moderate risk areas as between 20 504-466-7392 changed forever. On August 29 the reality hit as and 25 percent of all flood insurance claims come from Hurricane Katrina struck the New Orleans area, leaving low-to-moderate-risk areas. SINCE 1978 a path of destruction, uncertainty, and thousands of peo- 4. The low-cost Preferred Risk Policy is ideal for ple in need of help who also hold a fear of what will homes and businesses in low-to-moderate-risk areas. happen tomorrow. Homeowners may be able to insure buildings and con- Stress and anxiety builds as you start to move for- tents for as little as $112 per year. Business owners may ward after witnessing one of the most horrific chapters be able to insure building and contents for as little as in a lifetime. Some lost their homes, others lost loved $500 per year. Residential renters may be able to insure 450-1753 ones, and almost everyone lost the type of existence contents for as little as $39 per year. they had prior to Katrina. 5. Flood insurance is affordable. The average The Hispanic community, just like all other com- flood insurance policy costs a little more than $400 a munities, has great needs at this time. We must all work year for about $100,000 of coverage. In comparison, a collectively with the various government agencies and $50,000 disaster home loan can cost you about $240 a Carpet Cleaning & Restoration charitable organizations, and seek the assistance of month at four percent interest over 20 years. churches and non-profit organizations for immediate 6. Flood insurance is easy to get. You can buy Mold Remediation assistance. Listen to your local radio station for infor- NFIP flood insurance from private insurance companies Slab, ceramic, tile & grout cleaning and mation. Katrina buckled all of us to our knees, but we and agents. So call yours today. You may be able to pur- disinfecting prior to floor installation all will rise, one way or another, to the challenge of chase flood insurance with a credit card. cleaning up and rebuilding our lives and our city. It will 7. Contents coverage is separate, so renters can FREE ESTIMATES take time, courage, commitment, and, most of all, insure their belongings. Up to $100,000 contents cov- patience. erage is available for homeowners and renters. Whether One lesson in particular that should be learned from you rent or own your home or business, make sure to Katrina is that we all need to purchase flood insurance. ask your insurance agent about contents coverage. It is It’s All About You! Here are some facts to know about the National Flood not automatically included with the building coverage Insurance Program (NFIP) as reported by FEMA. except under the Preferred Risk Policy. The Chic…Boutique 1. Everyone lives in a potential flood zone. Yo u 8. Up to a total of $1 million of flood insurance don’t need to live near water in order for flooding to coverage is available for non-residential buildings occur. Floods are caused by storms, melting snow, hur- and contents. Up to $500,000 of coverage is available ricanes, and water backup due to inadequate or over- for non-residential buildings. Up to $500,000 of cover- loaded drainage systems, dam or levee failures. age is available for the contents of non-residential Now Open 2. Flood damage is not covered by homeowner buildings. Monday 11-6 policies. You can protect your home, business, and 9. There is usually a 30-day waiting period before belongings by purchasing flood insurance from the the coverage goes into effect. Plan ahead so you’re not Tuesday & Saturday 10-6 caught without flood insurance when a flood threatens Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 10-7 your home or business. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 10. Federal disaster assistance is not the answer. Federal disaster assistance is only available if the 4041 Williams Boulevard • Suite 6A Winn-Dixie Shopping Center • 467-2558 President declares a disaster. Flood insurance pays even Hours: T, Sat. 10-6 • W, Th, F 10-7 if a disaster is not declared. Getting our lives back to normal is going to take Veterans Day some time. We must be aware of potential post-disaster scams. Look out for flood damaged cars, disaster clean up crews or teams that are unscrupulous, offers to move Service and store your belongings, roof and home repairs by workmen who won’t be able to be found later, and bogus charitable organizations or individuals. Thursday, November 10, 2005 In closing I would like to leave the following words 10:00 a.m. of encouragement. Your “attitude” is the wind beneath COMPLETE your wings. Transform your attitude from negative to positive, and you will finally realize your full potential. PEST & TERMITE CONTROL Veterans Century of Sentries Park God Bless. ★ (adjacent) to Kenner City Hall Rafael E. Saddy is an active community leader and president of the Latin American Civic Association of Features 4400 Wabash Street, Metairie, LA 70001 Bonnabel High School Color Guard Louisiana (LACAL). Email Saddy at sadd3143@bell- south.net. Correspondence for LACAL can be sent to P. (504) 888-4941 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ O. Box 640604, Kenner, LA, 70064-0604. Fax (504) 888-8120 30 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

★ Gardening ★ November horticultural hints together. For some who will undertake the mission material for sale that is brought in from other areas of restoring the beauty of a home landscape or gar- but may not grow as well here. You will be safe den, however, I would like to help by offering some buying abelia, pittosporum, nandina, Indian post-Katrina suggestions. Hawthorne, azaleas, sasanquas, camellias, holly, iris, lilies, lorapetulum and some palms such as By LYNNE DIMM Flooded Yards lorapetulum. After your yard has dried out, pick up all trash If you contract with a company for landscaping, My guess is that not many people will be thinking about and debris, then cut and edge the lawn. Do not it is a good idea to do business with a local compa- their yards this fall, that is if they are lucky enough to still water the lawn for a long, long time. At the end of ny that will be there for you down the road. Be leery have a yard. After a September we will never forget, we folks the month, feed the lawn with winterizer fertilizer. of people out there trying to capitalize on your in Kenner are facing various stages of putting our lives back Pray for cool, dry weather. Pull out the last of your needs. Try to do business with stable businesses summer annuals and trim shrubs. Do not plant win- that were here before the storm, not businesses that ter annuals for four weeks until the water-logged are here today and gone tomorrow. Put your trust in ground dries and the water table goes down. local companies who know what plants are best for this area. Yards That Did Not Flood Next month I will tell you more about adding Weed the garden, trim shrubs and replace mulch color to your garden for the holidays. This month I • 23 years experience counseling as you do every fall. Put winterizer fertilizer on am thankful for being able to write this column and small businesses lawn and garden. Plant fall color such as petunias, I know my readers are ready to replant their gardens ★ • Real Estate Law cabbage, kale, dianthus, calendulas, stock, mums and their feet in our great city of Kenner. and, later, pansies and violas. •Successions, Wills, and Family Law Lynne Dimm, owner of Lynne Dimm’s Nursery, ANTHONY V. LIGI, Jr. Landscape LLC, located at 27 West 27th Street, is a registered ATTORNEY AT LAW Many of you will be reworking your landscap- and licensed Louisiana horticulturist and land- ing. If you do-it-yourself, take time to seek advice scape contractor, is a wholesale grower of bedding 4425 Clearview Parkway from professionals and/or refer to landscape books plants and has over 30 years experience in the Metairie, Louisiana 70006 for ideas. Use plants that are suited for our climate. industry. Lynne Dimm can be reached via email at (504) 455-7974 Since many growers in Louisiana, Florida, [email protected], 468-5467or visit Dimm’s Mississippi and Texas have lost their plants due to website at www.lynnedimmsnursery.com. COMMITTED TO THE RENEWAL OF JEFFERSON PARISH Hurricane Katrina, you will start finding plant

Cannes Brûlee Native American Village Children’s Castle TUESDAY - SATURDAY 9:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. • NOVEMBER 2005 All performances are on Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. NOVEMBER 5 Lora Chaisson, United Houma Nation NOVEMBER 5 MACHEAUX CORN ROSCOE REDDIX This dish was named after the method from which the corn is removed from the husk. NOVEMBER 12 MAGICIAN IRWIN ROYES NOVEMBER 12 Rose Behan, Eastern Band of Cherokee NOVEMBER 19 CHEROKEE CAMP STEW Storyteller Frank Levy It’s getting cold outside, so come try a hot bowl BEAUTY AND THE BEAST of this Native Village stew.

NOVEMBER 19 Castle shows are suggested for children five and older. These programs are supported ADMISSION - $3.50 per person (ages 2 & older) Margo Rosas, Choctaw/Mexican by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Culture, Recreation BEAN BREAD and Tourism, in cooperation with the Call 468-7231 ext. 220 Tues.-Sat. 9am - 5pm or contact the Louisiana State Arts Council Traditional bean bread goes back as far as creation. as administered by the Castle directly at 712-9861 9am - 2pm for reservations and information. Arts Council of New Orleans. The Castle is located at 501 Williams Blvd. in Kenner’s Rivertown. NATIVE AMERICAN VILLAGE AT THE WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES MUSEUM KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 31

★ Faithwalk ★ God’s love in unexpected places I was no exception. haps he didn’t need me to tell him what our strengthen our faith and make it come alive. I had been sheltered most of my life, and need was, but his head remained bowed, so This gifted priest, understandably, attracts this ordeal was a great trial for me. Most of I lowered mine and waited. the curious; but he points us to God, the our six daughters had grown up and gone In a little while, he smiled; and his first giver of the gift, not himself. We are all gift- off to college and beyond. With Carl’s words let me know that he was “tuned in” to ed in different ways, and God expects us to departure, our home seemed abysmally our family’s situation. He said, “You know, use those gifts to honor Him. By CARL CLEVELAND empty with only Caitlin, then eight years they thought Jesus was a criminal, too.” He When Carl's cancer recently came out old, and me living in a home that seemed blew me away! After inspired “directives” of remission, another daughter sent Carl a In early August, as my wife, Joey, and I much too big. Our two Labrador retrievers for my two daughters, he then said, “Do you card which pictured two black Labrador prepared for a wonderful trip to visit my old missed Carl terribly because he was the have a dog?” We were surprised at the Retrievers on the front. Under the picture college roommate in Colorado, we had an “dog person” in the family, not me. Now question and laughed, and then he said, she had written, "God is dog spelled back- unexpected problem. Our 13 ?-year-old that Carl was gone, I felt they helped to fill putting his hand at mid-thigh, “About this wards." When the Supreme Court unani- black Labrador retriever, Annie, seemed to up empty space, but that they were just two size? Follows you wherever you go?” I mously reversed Carl's conviction, Annie, decline rapidly. After becoming incontinent more mouths to feed. One day, that all responded, “Yes. That’s Annie.” His our personal symbol of God's love was there a year ago, she became persona non grata in changed. response prompted this story and will forev- to celebrate with us.” the house. She became weaker and weaker, In the spring of 2000 we received the er be a blessing to me and to perhaps some Obviously, Joey loved Annie as much as gradually losing most of the strength in her news that the U.S. Supreme Court had of you. It was, “God is closer to you than I did. As I think about those events, I can’t hind quarters. At the same time, she became agreed to hear Carl’s case. We were in that dog.” help wondering who or what God has used, more and more reluctant to stay quietly in shock. Nothing had gone our way legally Immediately, I had a flashback to a day or maybe will use, to comfort and reassure the dog kennel. since the ordeal had begun. I was afraid to when Carl had been away for about six each of us as we come to grips with the Eventually, I gave her free run of the have hope, only to have it dashed again as it months. I had bottomed out, both mentally havoc wreaked in our lives by Hurricane yard after she chewed her way through the had so many times before. At this bleak time and emotionally. My coping mechanisms Katrina. I am certain that just when we feel chain link kennel gate, cracking her teeth in in our family’s history, hope seemed cruel. had deserted me, and I was alone. Really all is lost, God is up to something wonder- the process. I do have to apologize to my I had been told by a daughter of a alone. I started crying, and I could not stop. ful and unexpected. How have you experi- neighbors, who Annie barked at aggressive- remarkable priest who would be giving a I let my guard down with nothing and no enced His boundless love in the stench and ly as they passed, although she never hurt Lenten Mission at a nearby church. I had one to inhibit or stop me. I don’t know if I’d rubble of Katrina? Be alert for His surpris- anyone. Eventually, she barked at them heard of his spiritual gifts. One was the gift ever cried that hard in my life. I was sitting es. You won’t be disappointed. from a seated or prone position. She soon of knowledge, to guide and direct individu- on the side of my bed at the time, and from For many of us, our love for our pets and became unhappy with the yard and began to als who went to him for counseling. the living room, ninety-pound-plus Annie their love for us is a powerful double destroy our front, patio and garage doors in Two of my daughters and I went to the came running. She jumped on the bed and metaphor for God’s unconditional love for a frantic effort to get into the air-condi- service. My mind was so focused on my pur- started pawing me and licking my face as if each of us. There are many other ways he tioned house. Her stubborn persistence pose for being there that I don’t remember to say, “Please stop! I love you! God loves makes his presence felt in our lives when we became more and more of a problem. Her much of what he said. When the meeting was you, too! You’re not alone, and I’m here for are most in despair. Next month I will share physical decline and offensive behavior led over, the three of us waited until everyone Him.” (This still makes me cry). Of course, with you some of the remarkable experi- Joey to suggest, and eventually demand, had left the church. I then approached this I had to stop crying because she didn’t give ences I have had since Katrina. I hope you that Annie be put down by our vet. I was anointed priest, who had never met us, and me a choice. She eventually made me laugh, will think of your own experiences and heart-broken and embarrassed by my asked him if he would pray for our family. and after that experience, we affectionately share them with me. Your story might be uncontrollable tears. I joked that this could He smiled gently, and said that he would. called Annie “The Dog from God.” just the spark of encouragement needed by be setting a dangerous precedent for me if The four of us stood in a circle. He, My reaction to this priest’s message, ini- someone else in Kenner who is at rock bot- my cancer worsens appreciably. No one holding my hands, stood across from me. He tially, was to ask myself how in the world tom. ★ thought that was funny, and my struggles to closed his eyes and lowered his head, and could he have known that had happened, care for Annie were largely unsuccessful. we followed his lead. After what seemed like but I have come to believe that God is real Carl Cleveland can be reached via email As I thought about my exaggerated an eternity, I looked up at him to see if per- and that His spiritual gifts are given to at [email protected]. affection for Annie, I realized that my love for this old, smelly, unruly, fading dog ran very deep. I have often thought that dog lovers’ affection for their pets is a good metaphor for God’s love for us. Likewise, our dog’s unconditional love and enthusias- tic acceptance of us makes a great metaphor in itself. Before leaving on the trip, the problem had to be resolved. I had a quiet talk with my old dog, explaining that there was no alternative to one last trip to the vet’s office. She fixed me with an understanding gaze and willingly accepted my decision. I dropped her off sobbing softly, giving her one last affectionate hug and feeling some resentment of my wife’s ultimatum. When I told Joey of my feelings, she reminded me of her affection for Annie. Her story fol- lows: “As most of you readers already know, my husband, Carl, was incarcerated for almost 2 ? years in Federal Prison, begin- ning immediately after Christmas in 1997. The entire family was engulfed in grief, and 32 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

GARBAGE immediately after the storm passed they BOUNCE BACK reside outside of the city lost everything,” (continued from page 1) began cleaning up and clearing major thor- (continued from page 1) said Kenner Chief of Police, Nick Congemi. oughfares. Since then, the Metairie-based “But through their selfless dedication, they personally asked for it numerous times. company has made numerous passes us to rebuild, even in the wake of a disaster,” continued to protect our streets while pro- This is unacceptable,” says Kenner Chief of throughout the entire city and will continue said Mayor Capitano. “Every home in viding the highest level of service. They are Staff Phil Ramon. until all debris is picked up. “This has been Kenner was adversely affected in some way committed to the safety of your family, your In the law suit, filed October 24 in 24th a monumental task. In Kenner to date, by Katrina, with 60 percent suffering severe home, and your property. I cannot express Judicial District Court, Kenner alleges that twenty-five crews and 100 trucks have been damage. Hundreds of businesses received to you how proud I am of these fine men it relied on promises of a storm plan in on the job working seven days a week, devastating flood and wind damage. But, and women.” Mayor Capitano also recog- awarding the contract to Waste sometimes working fifteen hours a day wherever you look today, Kenner is rebuild- nizes a job well done. “Although we had Management. The lawsuit also charges that removing 460,000 cubic yards of debris ing. Stores are open. Gas stations are open. communication problems with the police “the citizens of Kenner, though not party to from Kenner streets. They took their first Restaurants are open. We took Katrina’s department, I commend the KPD officers this lawsuit in name, have also suffered sig- day off on October 30,” said Ramon. Due to best shot and got up off the floor.” on the street who performed admirably dur- nificantly due to Waste Management’s fail- environmental restrictions, crews specializ- Mayor Capitano also praised Kenner’s ing a trying time,” said Mayor Capitano. ure to perform under the agreement.” The ing in picking up only refrigerators and hurricane response plan and the efforts of Mayor Capitano also noted that his lawsuit seeks a court order that Waste freezers will now be utilized. city workers, many of whom were on the efforts to increase Kenner’s “rainy day” Management resume the appropriate In another trash-related issue, Ramon streets Monday, just hours after the hurri- fund proved to be providential for the city. garbage collection activities, that it produce said the city is also taking the necessary cane passed, clearing away storm debris. With the approval of the Kenner City the so-called ‘storm plan’ and seeks dam- steps to reduce dumping at a temporary Kenner residents and business leaders Council, Mayor Capitano, early in his ages for the cost of hiring other contractors debris and reduction site in South Kenner. praised the individual efforts of the men and to collect garbage. “While we recognize that this site is an administration, increased the “rainy day” women of the Kenner Police Department, “The city has worked daily trying to inconvenience to some of our residents, we fund to $4.6 million. The mayor actually who placed their lives at risk in the after- improve the garbage situation and over- believe it was the lesser of two evils in our wanted to increase the fund to $7.5 million, math of the storm. By using the KPD’s come problems caused by Waste effort to quickly remove debris from all of however that figure was reduced to $4.6 deuce-and-a-half trucks, officers were able Management’s failure to perform, including our neighborhoods,” says Ramon. million due to additional allocations prima- opening temporary drop-off sites for resi- “Because of the time it takes for a roundtrip to patrol through flooded areas, perform rily to the police department over the past dents. In order to get better service to our to the Westbank landfill and how quickly rescue operations and bring those rescued 18 months. residents,” said Ramon, “Mayor Capitano trucks were filling up, this site was to shelters and medical facilities. And when The existence of the $4.6 million “rainy signed a contract on September 29 with a absolutely necessary for the short term,” Hurricane Katrina’s floodwaters receded, day” fund enabled the city to continue full second garbage company to augment Waste adds Ramon. “We now have additional several groups of police officers cleared the operations after Katrina, without a single Management.” trucks hauling from this site to the roadways of fallen trees and debris with layoff. Other cities and parishes in the Storm debris cleanup began the day of Westbank landfill and will eliminate the chainsaws, in order to ensure that repair metro area have all been forced to layoff the storm because two days before the temporary site as soon as possible.” ★ crews and relief workers were able to enter employees because of budgetary considera- storm hit Kenner Mayor Capitano signed a areas that would have otherwise been inac- tions. contract with Hard Rock Construction, a cessible. “We still have a tough way to go in debris removal company. Because the con- “Many of our police officers and Kenner,” said Mayor Capitano, “but we’re tract stipulated that Hard Rock bring their Kenner Police Department employees suf- equipment in prior to Katrina’s landfall, fered damage to their homes, and some who continued on next page

November 2005 ENNER KALENDAR For more information call Leisure Service - 468-7268 or 468-7284 CITY HALL ...... 468-7200 K Brake Tag ...... 468-4075 or visit City of Kenner Website: www.kenner.la.us Children’s Castle ...... 468-7231 Civil Service ...... 468-7219 1 2 Kenner Rotary Meeting 3 45 HAPPY K.P.R.D. Total Body Workout at Trauth’s (For info. 466-6785) Clerk of Court ...... 468-7277 in the P.M. (For info. 468-7268) Code Enforcement ...... 468-6607 K.P.R.D. Karate Classes Begin Kiwanis Club of N. Kenner (For info. 468-7268) Bottom Line Luncheon (For info. New Orleans Plaza Hotel @ 7:00 p.m. K.P.R.D. Line Dancing, and Community Development ...... 468-7588 Barry Haindel 450-8198) Couple Dancing Begin (For info. 468-7268) Community Services ...... 468-7293 Kenner City Council Meeting Zoning Adjustment Meeting in the Council Chamber of Complaints ...... 468-4040 in the Council Chamber of THANKSGIVING City Hall for 7:00 p.m. City Hall for 6:00 p.m. Council on Aging ...... 468-7513 Council Office ...... 468-7245 Cultural/Theatre ...... 468-7221 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Food Bank ...... 468-7220 “Veterans Day Celebration” 10:00 a.m. Veterans Century of Freeport Science Center ...... 468-7231 Rotary Club of New Orleans Sentries Park-1901 Williams Children’s Castle: Finance ...... 468-4052 “Bottom Line Luncheon” Irwin Royes Magician International Airport 12:00 Noon Blvd.(For info. 468-7240) Fine Art Gallery ...... 468-7231 @ Four Points Sheraton (For info. Barry Haindel 450-8198) (For info. 468-7231 Ext. 220) (For info. Charles Bryan Kenner Rotary Meeting Handicap Services ...... 468-7204 at Trauth’s (For info. 466-6785) Rivertown Heritage Plaza 468-5413) Zoo Mobile-1:00 p.m. Humane Department ...... 468-7503 Kiwanis Club of N. Kenner (For info. 468-7231) Insurance Department ...... 468-7233 N.O. Plaza Hotel @ 7:00 p.m. Leisure Services ...... 468-7268 Louisiana Wildlife Museum ...... 468-7231 13 City of Kenner Seminar14 15 16 Kenner Rotary Meeting @17 18 19 Mardi Gras Museum ...... 468-7231 “Coping With The Aftermath Trauth’s (For info. 466-6785) Mayor’s Office ...... 468-7240 of Hurricane Katrina” “Bottom Line Luncheon” Henry Mannheimer, MSW, (For info. Barry Haindel 450-8198) Kiwanis Club of N. Kenner Children’s Castle:Frank Levy Museum Welcome Center ...... 468-7231 LCSC, will conduct seminar. New Orleans Plaza Hotel “Beauty and the Beast” Museum Administration ...... 468-7231 Kenner City Park Pavillion Planning and Zoning Meeting @ 7:00 p.m. (For info. 468-7231 Ext. 220) 7:00 p.m.(For info. 468-7207) in the Council Chamber of Native American Village ...... 468-7231 City Hall for 7:00 p.m. Kenner City Council Meeting in Personnel Department ...... 468-7207 Rotary Club of New Orleans the Council Chamber of City Hall International Airport 12:00 Noon @ Four for 6:00 p.m. Planning Department ...... 468-7280 Points Sheraton(For info. Charles Bryan 468-5413) Police Department ...... 712-2200 HAPPY THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY Pontchartrain Center ...... 465-9985 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Public Works Department ...... 468-7515 Purchasing Department ...... 468-7261 Opening of City of Kenner’s Rotary Club of New Orleans Recreation Department ...... 468-7211 “Bottom Line Luncheon” Christmas Village International Airport 12:00 Noon Veterans Century of Saints Hall of Fame Museum ... 468-7231 @ Four Points Sheraton (For info. Barry Haindel 450-8198) Sentries Park Science Complex ...... 468-7231 (For info. Charles Bryan 1901 Williams Blvd. 468-5413) 5:30 p.m. Space Station Kenner ...... 468-7231 Times Picayune ...... 467-1726 All City of Kenner Offices Closed All City of Kenner Offices Closed Toy Train Museum ...... 468-7231 Traffic & Engineering ...... 468-4007 CITY OF KENNER PLANETARIUM-MEGADOME CINEMA 27 28 29 30 Visitor’s Information Center ..... 468-7527 The Planetarium Megadome Cinema is open every Tuesday through Saturday. A new show is Wastewater Operations ...... 468-7292 shown every hour from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rotary Club of New Orleans “Bottom Line Luncheon” For FIRE 467-2211 International Airport 12:00 Noon (For info. Barry Haindel @ Four Points Sheraton 2005 November Schedule (For info. Charles Bryan 450-8198) Police and Emergencies 468-5413) 10:00 a.m. PLANETARIUM-Mars Quest 1:00 p.m. MEGADOME CINEMA-Dolphins Dial 911 or 712-2222 11:00 a.m. MEGADOME CINEMA-Dolphins 2:00 p.m. PLANETARIUM-Mars Quest 12:00 Noon PLANETARIUM-Frite Lite 3:00 p.m. PLANETARIUM-Frite Lite Red Cross 833-8565 KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 33

BOUNCE BACK SPORTS (continued from previous page) (continued from page 26) The Way Business the only city that has actually received commissioner and appears to have legs. The money from FEMA to date. So far we have name “Louisiana Saints” or “Gulf Coast Communicates been helped by the initial $5.4 million pay- Saints” could emerge from the discussions. ment from FEMA with another payment On the topic of Los Angeles, Tagliabue called on the way. We may very well be able to get relocating the Saints to that city “nonsensi- cal.” Having said this, it is clear that the Formerly Gage Telephone System of New Orleans through the hurricane aftermath without league wants a team in Los Angeles as soon Sales - Service - Maintenance any layoffs. That is our goal and it would as possible. www.southeasttel.com be good for the city employees and the Benson’s own actions continue to poison Voice Data Cabling ¥ Voice Mail quality of city services we are able to deliv- the water in South Louisiana. He has still Local & Long Distance Service er.” failed to deliver any promises or real encour- Auto Attendant ¥ Unified Messaging The mayor said another key factor that agement to us. When approached by media, DSL & Internet Service worked in Kenner’s favor was the adminis- he shoves cameras away and curses a ticket- tration’s decision to turn to a Metairie-based paying fan. Hurricane Rita followed Katrina company called Hard Rock to pick up storm into parts of Louisiana. Fortunately, we were 466-4243 debris immediately after the hurricane, spared. Rita Benson-LeBlanc will follow 2005 3rd St., Kenner rather than Waste Management, which is Tom Benson to the throne of the New Orleans responsible for garbage pickup in Kenner. Saints. Will we be spared further devastation – the devastation of losing OUR beloved NFL “We used Waste Management for debris franchise, woebegone as it is? Times are removal after Tropical Storm Cindy and that tough. Tough people persevere in tough didn’t work out very well,” the mayor said. times. It is all about the character and integri- “We decided to go with Hard Rock, rather ty of the individual. If Benson lacks in these than allowing the Corps of Engineers to most revealing areas, perhaps NFL select our debris removal team. Hard Rock Commissioner Paul Tagliabue will not. He has done an excellent job. It was a very needs to ride in on his white horse, save the good choice.” franchise, at least in the short-term for New Capitano is also proud that his adminis- Orleans, eschewing his voracious appetite to FOOD HOURS BAR HOURS tration team got on the phone immediately place a team in Los Angeles. Los Angeles is Sunday - Thursday Sunday - Thursday after Hurricane Katrina and urged major known as the “City of Angels.” San Antonio 11:00 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. 11:00 a.m. - midnight Kenner businesses like Dillard’s, Wal-Mart, has the missions. New Orleans needs the Saints for its business, psychological, and Sam’s and Home Depot to open quickly in Friday & Saturday Friday & Saturday motivational merits as the area moves for- the wake of the storm. “We told them that ward toward new horizons. What New 11:00 a.m. - midnight 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. the streets would be cleared and people Orleans needs is a “force majeure.” For those would need supplies and materials,” Mayor of faith, it can happen. Remember – you’ve 5216 Veterans Blvd., Metairie Capitano said. “Most of them complied, GOT TO HAVE FAITH! Seems I’ve heard along with three gas stations and Laketown and seen that somewhere recently. ★ Grill, the first restaurant to be cleared for reopening in the Metro area.” Ken Trahan serves as Assistant Athletic “We also worked closely with BellSouth Director for Media Services, Broadcasting, and Entergy to get power and communica- Campus and Community Relations and tions restored,” the mayor said. “I’m very Group Sales at UNO and as sports director at proud of the fact that city workers provided Biz Radio 990, WGSO-AM. Trahan is also the the infrastructure and opportunity for general manager and chairman of the board Kenner residents and business people to get of the Saints Hall of Fame in Rivertown, our city back on its feet in the fastest possi- Kenner, and maintains a prep football web- ble time frame.” ★ site at www.neworleans.com.

★ Community ★ Halloween in Rivertown a huge success

First place costume winner was the Café du Monde, and the other winner was the MRE. 34 NOVEMBER 2005 KENNER ST★R

“This grilled burger (8 oz. chuck) had a GREAT SMOKY FLAVOR that honestly rivaled ★ ★ some of the better burger joints in town.” Real Estate The “Unknown Food Critic”, WWL-TV Review of Laketown Grill OPEN DAILY 11:30 AM - 6:00 AM FOOD SERVICE NOON - 7:00 PM Protect your home OPEN 24 HOURS against weather disasters By LINDA R. MARTIN Of course there may be times when no amount of prepping can protect your home. Over 25,000 Burgers Sold! The recent However, homeowners insurance can help “Everthing IS Right in Kenner!” Thanks, Kenner destruction protect you financially in case something — Ross & Darwin Martin, owners caused by happens to your property or its contents. Most standard homeowners insurance poli- 4041 Williams Blvd. • Kenner Winn Dixie Marketplace Hurricanes cies include structural coverage and per- Corner Vintage and Williams Blvd. Katrina and 461-0433 Wireless Internet Rita serves as sonal property coverage. Depending on a reminder of your location, you may also need addition- the type of al coverage against earthquake, hurricane havoc Mother and fire. 24-HOUR ELECTRICAL SERVICE Nature can Be aware that flood damage is not cov- cause. Water, ered under the traditional homeowners wind, fire and insurance policy. Flood insurance needs to BELLCO ELECTRIC earth movement can be hazardous to your be purchased separately through the Residential ¥ Commercial home, which is perhaps your most cher- National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), ished and largest investment. There are a federal program. It is available in our area ¥ A/C Circuits ¥ Vacancy Permits ¥ Troubleshooting ¥ Attic Ventilators actions you can take now to protect your and also to nearly 20,000 communities ¥ Remodeling ¥ Bidwork Welcome property and prevent major damage should across the U.S. who participate in the NFIP. ¥ Additions ¥ Service Upgrades one of these elements strike. Depending on Although you may be in a low to moderate ¥ New Construction ¥ Home Repairs s the age of your home and the building risk area, or may not be required by your 7 Day ¥ Same Day Service ¥ Security Lighting codes in your area, some of these improve- lender to purchase flood insurance, you ek A We Over ments may already be in place. may still want to consider this coverage. 30 Years Periodically review your homeowners Experience 455-2355 Water and flood insurance policies to make sure NO JOB TOO SMALL - WE DO ALL! Apart from major flooding, most dam- that you are adequately covered to rebuild METAIRIE KENNER N.O. AREA age occurs when water seeps in through your home and replace your contents. Beware of your insurance deductible BWD 1204-594 LICENSED ¥ BONDED ¥ INSURED OWNER RONNIE BELLACI cracks and leaks. Make sure that windows and doors are well sealed. Seal any cracks amounts. and holes in the foundation and exterior If there is ever damage to your person- walls. Repair or replace roof shingles al property, having a home inventory can around any area that allows water to pene- make it easier when filing an insurance trate the roof sheathing. Check for holes or claim. Start with a sheet a paper for each air leaks in the attic. Install or make sure room in the house. Go around the room and that the flashing, a thin metal strip around list every item. Don’t forget the attic, base- the doors, windows, thresholds, chimney, ment or other storage places. For each item, and roof are intact. write the original cost, purchase date, replacement cost, model number, brand Wind name, where purchased, and a general Minimize the damage by keeping the description. In addition, take photos or 3501 Chateau Blvd. wind from getting inside your home. video of each room for visual documenta- Windows and glass doors should be fitted tion. It is also a good idea to arrange valu- 465-9444 with impact-resistant laminated glass or able collections, silver, jewelry, etc. and covered with impact-resistant shutters. take close up photos. Make sure you update Consider solid wood or hollow metal doors, your home inventory photos and list at least which are more likely to resist wind pres- once a year. sure and flying debris. There are also roof- When weather-related disasters strike, Open ing products with high wind resistance what’s most important is your safety and available. that of your family. However, by taking pre- cautions to protect your home, you can pos- 7:00 A.M. - 10:00 P.M. Fire sibly help keep damage to a minimum; or in BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER Some inexpensive home improvements the case of severe damage, make sure that that you can make include installing a spark you have the financial means to rebuild. arrestor on your chimney, eliminating For more information visit brush and debris from around your proper- www.ibhs.org or www.fema.gov. ★ We can take care of ty, and modifying your attic and sub-floor. More expensive improvements include Linda R. Martin is the branch manager Your Catering Needs for replacing single-pane glass windows, doors of the Prudential Gardner Realtors’ or skylights with tempered glass, recover- Williams Boulevard branch and can be Special Occasions and Holiday Parties ing your exterior walls with a more fire- reached at 443-6464 or lmartin@pruden- resistant material, and re-roofing your tialgardner.com. Prudential Gardner’s Chateau Café Breakfast home with a Class A roof covering. website is www.prudentialgardner.com. “A Kenner Tradition” SAY YOU SAW IT IN THE KENNER ST★R KENNER ST★RNOVEMBER 2005 35

★ Travel ★ Anaheim … a city for the young and young at heart Rainforest Cafe, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz travel agency today and plan a “cool” vaca- Rada’s World of Travel, located at 903 Kitchen, and more. It’s “the place” for up- tion with even cooler temperatures. ★ Williams Blvd. LaDean Rada can be tempo, uptown fun – day or night! reached at 467-9450, by fax at 465-9822 or Orange County’s beach towns stretch LaDean Rada is owner of and agent for via email at [email protected]. 42 miles along California’s golden coast- By LaDEAN RADA line. The towns, though close in proximity, are sometimes worlds apart in their charac- We are back and Attention At this time of year everyone is looking ter, each offering different adventures and better than ever… for a cooler place to be. Why not go west environments. Park & Ride and visit Anaheim, California? This is truly Mission San Juan Capistrano, the birth- beginning Saturday November 19 and vacation headquarters for kids of all ages. place of Orange County, was founded more thereafter every Saturday!!! Participants The activities are endless, from teeing-off than two hundred years ago. Today it is a German Coast Farmers’ Market on first-class golf courses with a view of monument to California’s multi-cultural The city of Kenner needs the Pacific, to relaxing on the beaches that history, embracing its Native American, 8 AM—Noon to hear from you! Spanish, Mexican and European heritage. are just a quick trip away from Anaheim. Of Ormond Plantation In order to re-establish course, if you are looking for the excite- Originally built as a self sufficient commu- 13786 River Road, Destrehan the Park & Ride Bus Service ment that theme parks bring, Disneyland nity by Spanish Padres and Indians, the to downtown New Orleans, and the scream-inducing roller coasters at mission was a center for agriculture, indus- Everything you will need for that perfect the city needs to determine if there Knott’s Theme Park will be more than try, education, and religion. THANKSGIVING DINNER!!! happy to fulfill that dream. Check out some of Southwest Airlines is a true demand at this time and There is so much activity in this area, as reasonable fares to Los Angeles or directly Creole Tomatoes, Freshly Grown Produce, whether it is financially feasible. Anaheim truly allows parents and kids into Orange County. Customize your Creole Cream Cheese & Dairy Products, If you are interested in this service, alike to celebrate the magic and adventure Anaheim vacation with a rental car, or Homemade Jams, Jellies, & Honey, Breads & please contact Pastries, Cut Flowers & Growing Plants, around every corner. Right in the heart of choose transfers and take advantage of the Seafood, Sausage, Andouille & More!!! Dorothy Pendergast the Disneyland Resort lays Southern economical bus transportation to all points of interest. Save enough time for Universal in the California’s most eclectic and unique mix Info: Wayne Andrus Studios and take a tour of Los Angeles and Mayor’s office of restaurants, entertainment venues, and Telephone:985-758-2593 shops at Downtown Disney. It features hot Hollywood. This is a great destination, and Email: [email protected] at 468-7240. spots like the ESPN Zone, House of Blues, your options are endless. Visit your favorite Now Playing in the Planetarium and MegaDome Cinema

2020 4th Street in Kenner’s Historic Rivertown • 468-7231 Showtimes: Tuesday - Saturday at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. …and…and don’tdon’t missmiss MARSMARS QUESTQUEST inin tthehe PlanetariumPlanetarium andand thethe incredibleincredible FRIGHTFRIGHT LIGHTLIGHT LASERLASER SHOW!SHOW!

★ ★ ★ PRESORTED ★ ★ STANDARD ★ ★ ★ U.S. POSTAGE PAID KENNER, LA Kenner’s Monthly Community Newspaper PERMIT NO. 49 P.O. Box 641654 • Kenner, Louisiana 70064

November 2005