Vol. 30, No. 1 Kenner’s Community Newspaper Since 1991 JANUARY 2021

Kenner resident Ice House owner says despite all the problems, has much to be grateful for

input requested By Allan Katz normal. Then, of course, there is the terrible COVID-19 as other essentials. Ricca says what has changed is the pandemic. So many good people have died. Naturally, way folks shop at the Ice House. for revitalization of It has been 38 years since Joe Ricca opened the our business has been hit by this. Yet, I feel we still Instead of coming into the store, many of Ricca’s Rivertown and The first Ice House. And it has been 18 years since he took have much to be grateful for. Most of our customers customers now park in the parking lot and call the store over the Ice House in its current location at 2151 Wil- have stayed with us. We’ve been able to keep our 20 at 469-3503 with their order. In moments, one of Ricca’s Esplanade mall. liams Boulevard in Kenner. And in all that time he has employees on the payroll. Our team is intact, thank good- team members rushes out the door with the order and never seen a year filled with so many difficulties as 2020. ness.” brings it to the vehicle. The employee always wears a January 20 online Zoom meeting “There has never been a year in my lifetime The Ice House is the largest provider of ice, dry mask for safety’s sake. It is contactless service of the details and registration info on where we have so many hurricanes hit the Gulf ice and propane for Kenner and nearby communities. highest order. “We’re a lot faster than the big stores,” Coast,” says Ricca. “I pray to God this is not the new It is also a major seller of beer and soft drinks, as well page 2 & 6. page 11 An update on the Duncan Canal/West Esplanade Super clinic and micro-hospital development at improvements near The Esplanade mall Clearview City Center announced by Ochsner The $13.5 million project to replace the two Health and Clearview timber bridges at the Duncan Canal and other im- provements is about 55 percent completed, accord- On December 3, 2020, Ochsner Health and ing to the contractor, Hard Rock Construction. Clearview leaders announced the development of a The work is now expected to be finished by the comprehensive healthcare destination at Clearview fall of 2021, assuming no unexpected delays. City Center. Known as a “super clinic” because of the Hard Rock has completed building a box cul- breadth of healthcare services offered under one vert in Canal No. 2 and the westbound timber pile roof, the facility will feature primary and specialty bridge has been removed. Westbound traffic on West patience with this project,” Kenner Mayor Ben care clinics, outpatient surgery, physical therapy, a will also feature a 10-bed micro-hospital to accommo- Esplanade is being diverted to the eastbound side Zahn said. “This will be a great improvement for drive-thru pharmacy, endoscopy suites, Medi-Spa date overnight stays and be equipped with technology where there is currently two-way traffic. the city, but there’s no doubt this will involve and more. The 185,000 square foot facility, located for telemedicine. Expected to open in late 2022, the “I want to thank residents for their continued in the space formerly occupied by Sears retail store, page 19 page 18 Ochsner Health announces new multi-specialty Airport achieved GBAC STAR facility accreditation clinic with LSU Health at Ochsner Health Louis Armstrong New Orleans International the gold standard for prepared facilities. Under the Airport (MSY) has recently achieved Global Bior- guidance of GBAC, a division of ISSA, the world- Center-Kenner a great opportunity for both patients and medi- isk Advisory Council (GBAC) STAR accreditation, wide cleaning industry association, MSY has imple- cal residents.” mented the most stringent protocols for cleaning, In December 2020, Ochsner Health expanded Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner will now disinfection and infectious disease prevention in its continued academic partnership with LSU offer access to more providers in seven special- its facility/facilities. Health with the opening of a new multi-specialty ties – allergy, cardiology, infectious disease, ne- To achieve GBAC STAR accreditation, MSY clinic as part of Ochsner Health Center-Kenner, phrology, neurology, orthopedics and pulmonol- was required to demonstrate compliance with that will provide even more access to care and ser- ogy. The clinic will be staffed by full-time, board- the program’s 20 core elements, which range vices to patients in the area. certified LSU physicians for each specialty, as from standard operating procedures and risk as- “With Ochsner’s expertise and LSU’s skilled well as LSU residents and medical students. sessment strategies to personal protective equip- faculty, residents and fellows in highly requested Conveniently located on the campus of ment and emergency preparedness and response specialties, while our patients receive the standard Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner, the facility al- measures. To learn more about GBAC STAR of care they know and expect from an Ochsner clin- ready offers a broad range of specialty services, accreditation visit www.gbac.org. ic,” said OMC-Kenner CEO Stephen Robinson. “It’s page 19 page 19

Kenner Progress See 4-page center pull out section Ben Zahn 2 JANUARY 2021 H KENNER STHR

MASKS AND Required! Join Us For An 2020 Fourth Street • Kenner, LA 70062 CLOSED Experience That’s MASKS12/26 & 1/2 PUBLIC MEETING REQUIRED! OUT OF THIS WORLD! JANUARY 2021 – CLOSED JAN. 2 Big Bird’s Louis J. Roussel, Jr. Laser Planetariumone world one sky: Rivertown Saturdays - 11 a.m. ★ Running time: 27 minutes Adventure OneJoin World, Big Bird, One Elmo,Sky: Big and their friend from China, Hu Hu ZhuRusty as they Rocket’s locate Last the BlastBig Dipper, the Bird’sNorth Adventure Star, and the Moon in the night sky. Take an imaginary trip to the moon and discover how different it is from Earth. Audiences will see that even Rustythough Rocket friends has may one livefinal in different & Join Big Bird, Elmo, and their mission to command: an friendcountries, from China, we all Hu share Hu Zhu the same sky! introductory tour of the solar as they locate the Big Dipper, system for a new class of rocket the North Star, and the Moon rookies. Along the way, Rusty in the night sky. Take an highlights the wide variety of Esplanade Mall Dream toimaginary tripFly to the moon Saturdays and - 12 p.m. & 2 p.m ★environmentsRunning time:in the solar 35 minutes system, Since the beginning ofdiscover history, how people different have it isdreamed of fl ying. Tales of mythicalthe dragon great distances between the fl ights thrilled ancient fromdreamers. Earth. AudiencesStorytellers will wove airy fantasies of magic carpetplanets, rides. and the spacecraft that see that even though friends explore them. Leonardo Presented da Vinci by: stoked the dreams of fl ight with his fantastic drawings and through his Revitalization Plans eyes, we learned to lookmay at live nature in different for the countries, secrets of fl ight. Open your audience’s hearts we all share the same sky! and minds to new ideas about fl ight, and learn how generations of dreamers pursuedRunning the time: 35 minutes ancient impulse that hasRunning taken ustime: from 27 theminutes ground to the stars. Wednesday, January 20, 2021 Rusty Rocket’sDream to Fly Last Blast ★ Since the beginning of history, people have dreamed of flying. Tales of mythical Saturdays - 1 p.m. Runningdragon flights time: thrilled 35 ancientminutes dreamers. Storytellers wove airy fantasies of magic 6:00 PM via ZOOM Rusty Rocket has one fi nal missioncarpet to rides. command: Leonardo an da introductory Vinci stoked the tour dreams of theof flight solar with his fantastic drawings system for a new class of rocketand rookies. through Along his eyes, the we way, learned Rusty to look highlights at nature forthe the wide secrets of flight. Open your variety of environments in thehearts solar and system, minds to newthe ideasgreat about distances flight, and between learn how thegenerations of dreamers planets, and the spacecraft thatpursued explore the them. ancient impulse that has taken us from the ground to the stars. Running time: 35 minutes Register here:

https://bit.ly/3oJboQF SaturdaysDo you love the - 80’s?3 p.m Well,. ★ dust Running off your Moontime: Boots 45 andminutes Parachute Pants and travel back in time to Dowhen you artists love thelike 80’s?Duran Well,Duran, dust Tears off for your Fears, Moon and Bootsthe Eurythmics and Parachute ruled the Pants pop andworld! travel Selections back in time to when artistsinclude like Lunatic Duran Fringe Duran,, Rio Tears, Sweet for DreamsFears, and, and the She Eurythmics Blinded Me ruled With theScience pop amongworld! many Selections others! include Lunatic Fringe, Rio, Sweet Dreams, and SheRunning Blinded time: Me With 45 minutes Science among many others! Admission: Schedule:

E-mail [email protected] or call Appointment Only: Tues-Fri Schools/Camps/Groups 504-468-7231 for informationTuesday and- Friday group rates. by appointment only,Call for 504 -schools/camps/groups468-7231 for reservations. E-mail [email protected] or call 468-7231 for reservations, group rates or info. Adults $6.00 per show ★ Children/Seniors GENERAL$5.00 perPUBLIC show - SATURDAYSGeneral ONLY Public: Box OfficeSaturdays opens Only at 10:45 a.m. Admission: Adults, $6 per show ★ Children/Seniors, $5 perBox show Office opens★ Multi-show at 10:45 am packages available Multi-show packages available www.kenner.la.usOne World, Oneshow Sky: schedule11:00 subject am to change *Children 2-12 years Dream to Fly: 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm *Seniors 60 and over Rusty Rocket’s Last Blast: 1:00 pm SHOW SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE! Laser Retro: 3:00 pm

Kenner Planetarium 2020 Fourth Street Kenner, Louisiana 70062 www.kenner.la.us 504-468-7231 KENNER STHR H JANUARY 2021 3

MSY is a GBAC STAR accredited facility

Enhanced cleaning and sanitization measures that protect passengers and prevent the spread of germs.

The GBAC STAR trademark is owned by GBAC Inc. and licensed to ISSA, and is used with ISSA’s permission. 4 JANUARY 2021 H KENNER STHR

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METAIRIE Open 7 Days • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner OPEN! 111 Veterans Blvd 701 W. Esplanade Ave. 139 Robert E. Lee Blvd. 465-9444 286-1777 M-F Lunch OPEN 7 AM til 8 PM Tues.- Sat Dinner Call Ahead for Drive thru To Go Orders! Best &seafood steaks in town! KENNER STHR H JANUARY 2021 5 from The Editor Goodbye, 2020, you were a miserable year that no one is going to miss

By Allan Katz hands. We kiss cheeks. We put our heads together should find solace in those who demonstrated hero- in Kenner. They put their lives on the line every day to laugh and joke. We love to fill our plates with deli- ism, love and compassion during the worst of 2020. taking care of COVID patients along with those who So long, 2020. cious food and sit elbow to elbow exchanging stories, I was especially impressed by the active leader- needed critical non-COVID care. You were a miserable anecdotes, theories, arguments and wild predictions ship of Kenner Mayor Ben Zahn, the Kenner Council, So, my friend Joe Ricca is right – even in the horrible year filled about what the future holds. the staff at City Hall and Kenner Police Chief Michael worst of times there is much in the human spirit to with a seemingly end- The decision to cancel Mardi Gras 2021 is the Glaser and his whole force. I think they all did a great be grateful for. Hopefully, 2021 will bring a plentiful less procession of hurricanes and terrible COVID-19 right one. We love Mardi Gras, but we love each other job of pushing programs to be sure that even in the abundance of a safe vaccine that will provide us long- onslaught that has killed more than 300,000 Ameri- more. worst of times, no one went hungry in Kenner. The term protection and bring an end to the COVID-19 cans and more than 7,000 Louisianians. Actually, I think that our friend, Joe Ricca, the work of the Kenner Food Bank was and continues monstrosity. Let us all pray that Kenner will be able What an awful year you gave us. You turned long-time owner of the Ice House located in the 2100 to be outstanding. Many Kenner churches collected to return to the normalcy that we all treasure and our beloved Mardi Gras into a super-spreader event block of Williams Boulevard, has it right. Joe says he’s food for the hungry. Numerous corporations such as love. Goodbye, 2020. You will not be missed. We hope and you sent storm after storm rolling over the Gulf grateful that 2020 wasn’t even worse. He’s grateful CRC Global Solutions and volunteers contributed that 2021 will be a better year for you and for all of us, Coasts of Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana those damned hurricanes didn’t blow his store apart greatly to the food need. It is an integral part of Ken- wherever we live. and Texas. or flood his house. He’s grateful that neither his fam- ner’s culture that we don’t want anyone – senior Where did all those hurricanes come from? We ily, friends nor staff have been infected by COVID-19. citizens, families, the homeless or children – to go Allan Katz can be reached at allanlkatz@bell- used to think our hurricane season ended in early And what do we say to the families of the more hungry. south.net. September. Has it now been extended to Novem- than 7,000 Louisianians who have died of COVID-19? As is true every year, I was deeply moved by ber? Is this our new normal? Is it related to climate Our hearts go out to them. They are in our prayers. the courage and resolve of City Hall employees who change? Is there anything we can do to return to our So many of them died almost alone, with no one to risked their lives by going out into the worst storms. old normal? hold their hand but a doctor or a nurse. There are They are truly heroic. And how did the coronavirus sneak up on us? no words that fully express the sorrow that we share The same is true of the doctors, nurses and COVID-19 is the anti-Louisiana plague. We are a with them. support staff at Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner, as touchy-feely culture. We hug each other. We shake Even as we mourn those who have been lost, we well as the doctors and nurses at offices everywhere Political JANUARY 2021 Vol. 30 No. 1 Crime surging as New Orleans rings in new year Kenner Star is a tabloid newspaper published monthly and is distributed by direct mail free to all registered voter households in Kenner, numbering almost 20,000 By Jeff Crouere the pandemic, many public schools are closed to in- has created a new Violent Crime Abatement Team households. An additional 2,000 copies are also distributed each month in high traffic locations in Kenner. person learning, and millions of Americans are un- (VCAT) which will partner with the state police and After a very safe employed, a lethal combination which undoubtedly FBI to tackle this problem. Scharf hopes this new Publisher Kenner Star, Inc. 2019 with a histori- leads to higher crime rates. team “will work” because the alternative is unac- cally low murder rate, The plague of violent crime has beset New Or- ceptable, an ever-rising rate of violent crime. Editor Allan Katz this year has been a leans for decades and the answers are complex and Immediate and effective action is needed from much more violent one for New Orleans residents. multi-faceted. Broken families and inferior public not only the NOPD, but also the entire criminal Managing Editor/Marketing Director Candy Lovitt The upward trend in crime could not have come at schools are certainly part of the problem, along with justice system. One major player will be the newly a worse time for the people of New Orleans. The im- the poor economy and the understaffed New Orleans elected Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Wil- Contributing Writers Sidney Bullard pact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been especially Police Department. liams, who will have to address funding problems Jeff Crouere devastating for the major sectors of the local econo- Due to budget problems, cities are having dif- exacerbated by the pandemic, along with the usual Michael Glaser my, especially tourism and hospitality. ficulty fully staffing police departments, leading to challenges of dealing with violent crime in a city with Alexandra Goodwin While the number of tourists visiting New Or- shortages. In New Orleans, the Police Department a high unemployment rate and a myriad of other is- Craig Goodwin leans has sharply declined, the number of criminals (NOPD) has been understaffed for years and is cur- sues. James Gray, Ph.D. roaming the streets has increased significantly. The rently about 450 officers short of the optimum level Williams has a different philosophy than out- Norman Vince Hill, M.D. rates for murder and armed robbery are up 75% over of manpower. going District Attorney Leon Cannizzaro, who was Allan Katz Michelle Lovitt last year, while car jackings have increased by an This crisis became severe in the early stages known for his no-nonsense law and order approach. Rodney Miller astounding 150% in 2020. Through mid-December, of former New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu’s first In his successful campaign for district attorney, Wil- Dennis E. Rinck, Jr. there have been an incredible number of car burglar- term when he canceled police recruitment classes liams was funded by organizations allied with liberal Bob Ross ies, over 5,100 in New Orleans. due to budgetary reasons. It led to a significant de- benefactor George Soros and promoted a progressive Rafael E. Saddy All areas of New Orleans have been negatively crease in NOPD manpower levels that has negatively “criminal justice reform” approach to the office. Ken Trahan impacted. For example, just in one area, Algiers, impacted the city ever since. In 2021, the residents of New Orleans will soon Guy Williams there have been 25 murders, 28 armed robberies and With too few police officers on the streets, citi- discover whether the new strategies of the police Christina Sulli Wilson Ben Zahn 33 shootings in the past year. In Algiers and other ar- zens become hostages to the large criminal element chief and the new tactics of the district attorney will eas, residents face a tough decision. Do they stay and in violent neighborhoods. While this has been a work. A turnaround is desperately needed, but the Copy Editors Melissa Drake fight back against crime with home security and per- long-term problem for New Orleans, it has been com- other extreme seems just as likely, it could actually Monica Zeringue sonal safety measures or join the masses who have pounded in 2020. With the financial shortfall facing get worse. Distribution Manager left New Orleans in the past few decades? Since the New Orleans in 2020, there have been a significant Bryan Dormady 1960s, the population of New Orleans has declined by number of NOPD furloughs, and 90 officers have per- Jeff Crouere is a native New Orleanian and Graphic Design over 237,000 people. manently left the force. his award-winning program, “Ringside Politics” Trevor Sprague This massive surge in violence will only make According to the president of the Police As- airs locally at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and at 10:00 Printing the city’s economic woes more severe and will en- sociation of New Orleans (PANO), Michael Glasser, p.m. Sundays on PBS affiliate WLAE-TV, Channel Baton Rouge Press © 2021 Kenner Star, Inc. courage not only productive citizens, but also busi- even more officers will be leaving in the next few 32, and from 7:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. weekdays All Rights Reserved nesses to leave New Orleans. Fighting this issue must months to take positions in other departments. He on radio station WGSO 990 AM and www.Wgso. KENNER STAR be a top priority for every city official. said, ‘I think you’re going to see a significant amount com. Crouere, a political columnist, is the author of P.O. Box 641654 • Kenner, LA 70064 According to LSU criminologist Dr. Peter of attrition occurring after the first of the year as “America’s Last Chance” and provides regular com- Phone 468-9125 Scharf, with the current murder rate, New Orleans these applications to other departments are being mentaries on the Jeff Crouere YouTube channel and Email: [email protected] ranks about “third or fourth in the country.” He said processed.” Glasser notes that one reason for the on www.JeffCrouere.com. For more information, The content of all theme-based columns, the real question is “how did we go from 119 murders stampede to leave the NOPD is a “10%” pay cut and email Crouere at [email protected]. written by respective professionals in this newspaper, is in no way intended to render advice, suggest a last year, projected to somewhere between 190 and the fact that “we have been essentially defunded course of action, or take the place of an individual 200 murders this year, that’s back to 2011?” even though they might not call it that.” consultation regarding that subject matter. This year, leaders in many of the nation’s larg- To combat the problem, NOPD Superinten- est cities are dealing with similar problems. With dent Shaun Ferguson is taking proactive action and 6 JANUARY 2021 H KENNER STHR Government Residents urged to participate in Zoom meeting in January on important revitalization plans The contract was awarded to TSW Architects & and will also provide details on ongoing online Planners in Atlanta, whose team included local real- engagement with the public through a Social Pin- By Ben Zahn – Kenner Mayor tor Lynda Nugent Smith and her staff. Point webpage. The consultants have already interviewed Ri- I urge everyone in the city as well as anyone On January 20, agreed that Rivertown and The Esplanade mall vertown merchants, Rivertown Main Street Board interested in Rivertown and the mall to take part in Kenner residents were both areas of the city that offered some very members, the Friends of Rivertown organization, the meeting on January 20. will have the opportunity to give their input to a unique opportunities for redevelopment. the Rivertown Arts Council and Esplanade manage- The members of the TSW team have said national consultant hired to develop plans to re- The first step was a Retail Study and Hotel/Mo- ment. The city’s Economic Development Advisory they are excited about the possibilities both in vitalize both the Rivertown Historic District and tel Study commissioned by the department to get re- Board members and key community business lead- Rivertown and at the The Esplanade – not only The Esplanade mall. search and market intelligence on the possibilities ers, developers and property owners will be inter- as economic engines for the city but as important This is an important step in my administra- at both locations. Armed with that information, the viewed in early January. community gathering spaces. We will keep resi- tion’s goal of maximizing economic development department then successfully applied for a $180,000 The effort to get public input begins with the dents informed once TSW completes its work and in the city, and it would not have been possible grant from the Louisiana Office of Community De- kick off meeting on January 20. This Zoom meet- presents its recommendations. without the efforts of the city’s Department of velopment – Disaster Recovery Unit. ing will be held online, and members of the public Economic Development. With the grant money in hand, we put out Re- can register to attend the meeting at https://bit. Kenner Mayor Ben Zahn can be reached at Shortly after creating the department in July quests for Proposals in March 2020 and received 21 ly/3oJboQF. The TSW firm will listen to all com- 468-7240 or by email at kennermayor@kenner. 2019, Program Director Candace Watkins and I proposals from consultants throughout the country. ments and suggestions at this online meeting la.us. Police

What expenses are eligible “Louisiana Crime Victims Reparations Fund Program” details Reimbursement for property damage or loss is not an eligible expense. Approved claims may be By Michael Glaser – Kenner Police Chief must involve a Louisiana resident who becomes a vic- awarded compensation for the following only if they tim in another state that does not have a crime victim are related to the crime: Victims of The fund is administered by the Crime Victims Repa- compensation program for which the victim would be Reasonable medical and prescription expenses violence and their rations Board under the jurisdiction of the Louisiana eligible. Dental expenses families must deal Commission on Law Enforcement. The funds to oper- Reporting the crime Mental health counseling with emotional, physi- ate the program come from fines and files paid by The crime must be reported to a law enforce- Funeral expenses cal and financial aftermath of crime. The Louisiana people who break the law. ment agency within 72 hours after the incident unless Loss of earnings or support Crime Victims Reparations Fund helps innocent Basic qualification requirements there is a good reason why the crime was not reported Childcare or dependent victims and their families pay for the financial cost Residency within this time period. Crime scene cleanup (effective 8/15/2010) of crime when they have no other means of paying. The crime must occur in Louisiana or the crime Filing for compensation Reasonable replacement costs for item or items The application must be filed within a year of the taken as evidence or made unusable as a result of the crime unless there is a good reason why the application criminal investigation was not submitted within this time period. Forensic medical exams Cooperation What expenses are not eligible? The victim and/or claimant must cooperate fully Expenses which may not be reimbursed for any with law enforcement officials in the investigation and reason include: prosecution of the case. Property losses except for a catastrophic prop- Who may qualify? erty loss which is limited to the loss of your current An innocent victim of a violent crime who suf- residence provided it is owned and occupied by the fers physical and/or emotional harm or death or cata- victim/claimant. strophic property loss. Pain and suffering A person who legally assumes the obligations or Property repair voluntarily pays certain expenses related to the crime Attorney fees except when they are part of an or- on behalf of the victim. der from a hearing or award by a court of law Immediate family members needing counseling Limits on awards as a result of the consequence of death of the victim. Total recovery may not exceed $ 10,000 unless the Who is not eligible? victim suffered total and permanent disability. Victims A victim whose own behavior contributed to the who suffer total permanent disability as a result of their crime (in those cases, benefits may be reduced or de- victimization may qualify for up to $25,000. Take control of nied). Recoveries from other sources A victim or claimant who was engaged in illegal The Crime Victims Reparations Fund is regarded activity at the time of crime. as the your debit card An offender or an accomplice of the offender. “payer of last resort.” It is a secondary source that Anyone who was incarcerated in a penal institu- pays for certain out-of-pocket expenses related to the tion when the crime occurred. crime that the victim has no other way to pay. Other Victims of motor vehicle accidents except those sources that have to pay first include: listed below. HMO/health insurance What crimes are covered? Disability insurance/life insurance Crimes that involve the use of force or the threat Vacation time, sick leave or other types of leave of the use of force and result in personal injury, death paid by an employer or catastrophic property loss, and those victims of hu- Worker’s compensation benefits man trafficking. Social Security Only these motor vehicle-related crimes are eli- Medicare or Medicaid gible: The staff of the Crime Victims Reparations Pro- DWI gram will work with victims and claimants to make Hit and run sure all available resources, including the fund, work Victim of a driver who is fleeing apprehension by in best interest of victims. GULFBANK.COM law enforcement Victims/claimants of a sexual-related offense may Victim whose injuries were intentionally inflicted or may not file with their insurance. Message and data rates may apply. with a vehicle If, as a part of a criminal sentence, the court page 18 KENNER STHR H JANUARY 2021 7

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4713 DREYFOUS AVENUE IN METAIRIE WWW.AUDUBONCAREHOMES.COM VIEW A 360 DEGREE [email protected] VIRTUAL TOUR: 8 JANUARY 2021 H KENNER STHR Banking Is your employer retirement plan Choose a starting point changing? Have questions? Let's talk. By Guy Williams The way to do this is to create two lists, a list of what you own and a list of what you owe. To start Christina S Wilson Katina Summers I had a flash- a list of what you own begin by identifying all your Financial Advisor Financial Advisor back of a memory this financial assets such as cash, checking account, sav- month when I rented ings account, investments, etc. Then, list items that 909 W Esplanade Ave 2400 Veterans Blvd a Hertz car and the you own, such as cars, boats, furniture, art, equip-

Suite 109 Suite 484 agent asked, “Would you like a GPS with that?” I re- ment, etc. Finally, list your real estate holdings, such Kenner Kenner sponded, “No, I have one on my phone.” This mem- as a home or rental property. When you add all these 467-3995 375-2149 ory made me realize how ubiquitous GPS-enabled things up you will have a total asset number. navigation apps are now. Next list all the amounts of money you owe When you select a destination on your GPS, which includes credit card balances, payday loans, the next required field is to choose a starting point. mortgage or car loans, and any other amount of edwardjones.com Choosing a starting point is essential, especially if money that you owe to anyone. This list when to- you want to start off the new year with a good finan- taled is your amount of liabilities. Member SIPC cial plan. Your financial destination may be a secure Once you complete these two lists, it is time retirement fund, a home purchase, college savings, to calculate your net worth. Your net worth is cal- ABSOLUTE REAL ESTATE BROKERS, LLC cash to start a business or any other financial goals. culated by subtracting what you owe, your liabilities, For instance, one of our bank customers planned to from what you own, your assets. There is no need COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE SALES & LEASING move onto a boat and travel down the intracoastal to panic if the number is negative. Many people, CONSTRUCTION AND TENANT BUILD OUT waterway. Another wanted to start a business in the including me, will have negative net worth at some tropics. I am happy to say that both achieved their point in their lives. The point is to know your start- goals and I was happy to attend their going away ing point. SID BULLARD, Broker parties. If you are indeed in the hole, meaning that you Sidney Bullard, Agent After this very challenging year, you should owe more than you own, the first step is to quit dig- think about where you would like to be financially ging. In other words, start spending only the amount 512-5664 Cell in the next year and in the years to come. This plan- of money you make or less going forward. Once you ning process is an important stage in reaching your quit losing ground, you can begin the process of 305-0023 Offi ce financial goal. Unfortunately, many folks drift from making progress towards your goal. year to year and wonder why they are not better off. Ultimately, we encourage you to spend some [email protected] The suggestion, based upon years of actual time over the holidays to think about where your experience working with people from all income starting point is so that you may begin the steps to levels, is to pick a financial destination and then get to your financial destination. determine what your starting point is. This might seem self-evident, but many people do not know Guy Williams is president and chief execu- what their financial situation actually is. If you do tive officer of Gulf Coast Bank and Trust Company. not know where you are starting from, it is hard to Their Kenner branch office is located at 3410 Wil- Family Owned, We Shop For You! know how to get where you want to go. Besides, we liams Boulevard. Marcel Gonzalez, vice-president would not want to be like the tourist who pulled and branch manager can be contacted at 565-3656. Protection you need, service you deserve. Since over in Shell Beach and asked a local how to get to Brian Behlar, vice president and commercial lend- 1984, family owned Guffey Insurance Services Carencro. After a lot of thought, the response was er, can be contacted at 565-3661. Visit Gulf Coast has provided local families and businesses trusted service and protection “If I were going there, I wouldn’t start here.” Well, in Bank and Trust’s website at www.gulfbank.com. the financial world, you have to start where you are. CALL 467-0800 OR TEXT 338-2504 FOR A FREE QUOTE. Auto Cycle Homeowners Boat Condo Flood Government Renters Business & more Social Security information about recent www.GuffeyInsurance.net scams call. Anyone doing business with the Social Secu- [email protected] rity Administration must remember that they will 3409 Williams Blvd., Kenner, LA The most effective way to defeat scammers never threaten anyone with benefit suspension, is to know how to identify scams. It’s best to just arrest or other legal action unless a fine or fee is hang up on any uncertain call and ignore suspi- paid and will never promise a benefit increase or cious emails. Scammers are always finding new other assistance in exchange for payment or nev- ways to steal money and personal information by er require payment by retail gift card, cash, wire exploiting fears. transfer, internet currency or prepaid debit card. One common tactic scammers use is pos- Social Security will also never demand secrecy ing as federal agents and other law enforcement. from anyone in handling a Social Security-related They may claim someone’s Social Security num- problem and will never send official letters or re- ber is linked to a crime. They may even threaten ports containing personally identifiable informa- an arrest if their instructions are not complied tion via email. with. It’s best to just hang up. If someone is not having ongoing business As a reminder, continue to remain vigilant of with the agency, it is unlikely they will contact phone calls when someone says there’s a problem them. Anyone getting a suspicious call claiming to with someone’s Social Security number or ben- be from Social Security should hang up and report efits. If money is owed to Social Security, they will it to Social Security Administration’s Office of the mail a letter explaining rights, payment options Inspector General’s office at https://oig.ssa.gov. and information about appealing. The Social Security’s website is www.so- There are a few ways to identify a scam cialsecurity.gov. KENNER STHR H JANUARY 2021 9 Entertainment “Happy New Year” from Treasure Chest Casino! theicehousekenner.com By Rodney Miller have fun doing it! Just play using your new B Con- 2151 Williams Blvd. – RIGHT BEHIND CAR WASH – 469-3503 • theicehousekenner.com nected card to fill up your bronze, silver and gold Monday - Thursday - 7 am - 6 pm Friday and Saturday - 7 am - 7 pm Sunday • 8 am - 5 pm They say that meters on your game displays to earn $10 B Re- hindsight is 20/20. wards for each meter you fill! We now carry Here at Treasure Chest Casino we’re just happy that I know what you’re thinking now. You’re think- the year 2020 is soon to be hindsight. We’re ready to ing, “Sorry to interrupt, Rodney. But you covered the put 2020 safely in the rearview mirror and start 2021 ‘fun’ that you mentioned. But you also mentioned RANDAZZO’S the best way we know how: With food and fun in a food, did you not?” I did. Café Pontchartrain is serv- Camellia City/Caywood Bakery safe environment! ing up some delectable specials for New Year’s Eve Small & medium We know that just because the calendar flips and Day. New Year’s Eve, ring in the new year with a to a new year, the risk of COVID-19 doesn’t magi- delicious dinner featuring turkey, mashed potatoes, Special orders available for cally stop. That’s why, in addition to precautions green beans, cornbread and pumpkin pie for just large or any fi lling required by state, our “Boyd Clean” initiatives are $16.99! Then on New Year’s Day, celebrate the end (cream cheese, pecan praline, still in full effect. That means high touch surfaces of 2020 with a traditional corned beef dinner featur- and high traffic areas will be cleaned and sanitized ing cabbage, black-eyed peas, rice and a corn muffin, strawberry & lemon) even more frequently. That means even greater ac- also for just $16.99! Visit our website for café hours! cessibility to hand sanitizer. That means seating in Hindsight may be 20/20, but the future has Also available at: all areas are configured and limited to adhere to never been clearer for food and fun here at Treasure social distancing guidelines. That means COVID-19 Chest! We’re proud to be in your neighborhood and, Ice Cold training, health screenings and masks are provided as always, we’ll see you on the lake! to all team members! Times are rough, but we’re do- Treasure Chest Casino guests must be 21 ing our part to not make them even rougher for you, or older to enter the casino and become a B Con- KEG so come on in! nected member. Membership is free and rules and If you’re reading this column for the first time, restrictions apply. BEERTo Go! let me start by saying, “Greetings!” And if this is your first time reading this column...I bet you’re not a B Rodney Miller is the Treasure Chest Casino Connected member yet. Ouch! You’ve been missing Marketing Director. Treasure Chest Casino is located 20 Pack out. The good news is that there’s never been a bet- at 5050 Williams Boulevard in Kenner on Lake Pon- Long Neck Bottles ter time to join! In addition to all the great rewards tchartrain. Visit the website at www.treasurechestca- bud, bud light, miller lite, and coors lite 2215 Hickory, Harahan and benefits that come from being a member, new sino.com or call 443-8000. 99 7 am - 6 pm - 7 days a week members can also earn up to $30 in B Rewards and 18 . 305-5564

NOW ACCEPTING K-12 APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2021-2022 SCHOOL YEAR

New state-of-the-art high school campus featuring 9 science labs, teaching kitchen, music studios, art studios, and more. Visit our website to view our virtual open house video to learn about the Discovery difference!

DEADLINE TO APPLY: FEBRUARY 5 AT 10 AM All Jefferson Parish residents eligible to apply.

APPLY ONLINE AT DISCOVERYAPPLICATION.COM

3837 Loyola Drive, Kenner, LA 70065 504-233-4720 www.discoveryhsf.org 10 JANUARY 2021 H KENNER STHR Health Commercial and Residential Contractor A “New Year” perspective on New Construction • Remodeling fitness By Craig Goodwin JOGA DEVELOPMENT, LLC utes, you are walking at a three mile per hour pace. As our fitness improves, we can set goals I hope everyone toward walking that same mile within a 15-to- had a most wonder- 18-minute pace. Knowing how far you walk and ful holiday season and are now ready for the New how fast you walk allows for setting improved Year...As most New Year’s, I try to bring to light goals during the year. the importance of maintaining good health, both The next most important aspect of a fitness in the form of diet and exercise that will allow program for the new year is beginning a daily us to live a healthy lifestyle, pain-free from aches stretching routine that will cover all parts of the YOUR HOME SPECIALISTS and soreness helping us to be more energetic in body. Maintaining good flexibility is a great way to Roofi ng • Fencing • Kitchens • Bathrooms our daily activities. help us avoid injury during work and daily activity. We all need to review last year’s successes Adding a strengthening program for our core (ab- and downfalls and put forth an effort to maintain dominal and hip) muscles will allow us to keep a a good exercise regimen and follow a good dietary healthy back for those lifting activities we find our- FREE ESTIMATES program. Only by review we can come to focus on selves doing on a daily basis. improvement for this new year. To begin this new Walking, stretching and strengthening are year, we should set goals that will include build- the key components to maintain a healthy life- ing on the successes of last year as well as setting style this year. new standards that will bring us to a higher level of health this year. Craig Goodwin, physical therapist, is presi- One of the main goals for exercise in the new dent of Kenner Orthopedic and Sports Therapy year should include a walking program that will located at 3921 Williams Boulevard in Kenner improve our endurance, maintain good muscular and at two other locations in Metairie and on the John Hollander Gary Hollander strength and help us maintain a good body weight. West Bank. Goodwin graduated from LSU Medical A walking program should begin by laying out a con- School Department of Allied Health Department sistent walking track that will allow you to know how of Physical Therapy in 1987. The professionals at JOGA DEVELOPMENT, LLC far you are going and be able to keep a consistent Kenner Orthopedic and Sports Therapy can be con- 3405 Williams Blvd #3 pace during your walk. From this, we can set goals tacted via email at [email protected] or by that will help us improve our pace within a certain visiting www.orthosportstherapy.com. Alexandra distance over time. Goodwin is co-author and contributing writer to 292-8251 For example, if you walk one mile in 20 min- the Kenner Orthopedic column. Locally owned • Family owned • State licensed & insured e All trees should be trimmed for safety! No job too big or too small! Tree trimming & removal Fencing Stump grinding Construction Hedging All landscape needs Dirt spreading 30+ years experience Z Arborist • General Contractor License • Military & Family Owned • Fully Insured 432-3548 Kenner Progress

City of Kenner - Mayor’s Report 20 City of Kenner - Mayor’s Report - 2020

Ben Zahn: Mayor’s Report for 2020 I am very proud to detail in this report how Kenner met each and every challenge in one of the most unusu- al and challenging years ever in the city due to the combination of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact from Hurricane Zeta. We never closed and never stopped providing any essential services – thanks to an incred- ible and dedicated team of employees. At the same time, we made the safety of residents and city workers a top priority. This is my yearly report updating residents on the past year in Kenner.

BEFORE COVID – JANUARY FINANCES - MARCH 13, 2020 Boosted by the excellent start from new businesses and new construction, the fi nances of the city were ex- tremely strong for the fi rst quarter of the year. A total of NEW BUSINESS AND $1.52 million in sales taxes was collected – an increase of CONSTRUCTION 6.7 percent from the year before. Total revenues for the New business and new construction were both very city were up about $1.9 million. strong in the city before the pandemic arrived. There were 41 new business licenses issued, 2,032 business license COVID – MARCH 14 renewals and nine ribbons cuttings – all in just nine weeks. crowds on a 4.2-mile route that ended at the Pontchar- Also in that time period, there were 16 new homes, 1 new train Center. THROUGH THE END OF hotel, 5 new cell towers and 3 additional commercial proj- THE YEAR ects – with a total value of more than $16 million. LUNDI GRAS The 22nd meeting of the courts of the Krewe of Argus KENNER NEVER CLOSED and the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club on Feb. 24 in- FUNDED CAPITAL PROJECTS Essential services for residents were never interrupt- cluded a second-line parade and a free concert from the The total amount of funded capital projects included ed. Employees worked either on-site or remotely, and ear- Topcats in Rivertown. $43 million for road projects, $20 million for sewer, $17.3 ly in the pandemic, the on-site work was briefl y located at million for drainage, $8.2 million for recreation and $3.9 the Pontchartrain Center. We quickly installed an All-City million for fi re. That includes funding obtained by Mayor OPERATIONS Access line for residents that employees could answer Zahn and the City Council from Jefferson Parish - $17.7 On March 5, the City Council approved a 10-year remotely. In May, we opened three city buildings to the million to rebuild Bainbridge, $12 million to connect West garbage contract with IV Waste. The technology and public – Buildings A, C & D. Napoleon to the airport access road and $6 million for a equipment that IV Waste brought to the city made an breakwater project. immediate difference, both on daily collection of garbage BRAKE TAGS and curbside recycling and during the cleanups that were Inspections resumed on Sept. 25 CULTURE AND TOURISM necessary following storms during the year. at six different satellite locations in the city. About 1,000 tags have been is- The fi rst nine weeks of the year also included im- CLASS 6 FLOOD RATING pressive tourism statistics with a total of 295,157 room sued weekly since that time. Auto repair nights for the city’s 2,420 existing hotel rooms for a 74.1 FROM FEMA shops and gas stations are eligible to occupancy rate. At the Pontchartrain Center, there were Kenner received the notifi cation in March that the apply to become a satellite brake tag lo- 30 events for a total of 63 days booked. In that period, we city had joined just 220 others in the entire country with cation. All businesses are required to meet the proper cer- had 39,304 visitors to the Pontchartrain Center, which in- a Class 6 fl ood rating. This exceptional rating qualifi ed tifi cation. The satellite system reduces overhead for the city cluded more than 10,000 people who attended the Lego residents and businesses for fl ood insurance discounts. while also encouraging economic development. The city’s Universe convention. The tourism income for the fi rst Brake Tag Station remains closed, but all employees who worked at the station were reassigned to open positions. quarter of the year was more than $250,000. KREWE OF ISIS PUBLIC OUTREACH Communication with residents was a top priority The Krewe of Isis, one of the oldest and most estab- during the pandemic, and more than 240 posts with lished of all Jefferson Parish carnival organizations, chose COVID-19 related information, including 76 video pub- to return to Kenner where the organization started 40 lic service announcements, were posted on Kenner’s years ago. The parade on Feb. 22 started in the parking social media platforms from March 14 through the end lot of The Esplanade mall and moved north, attracting big of the year. FOOD BANK DONATIONS The amount of the discount depended on the individual The demand for food increased signifi cantly once the insurance company, but savings of up to 20 percent were pandemic began, as many people were laid off or lost their available in the AE Flood Zone and up to 10 percent in the jobs. The Kenner Food Bank remained open to give out X Flood Zone. food to existing clients and to accept applications from new clients. The city was able to meet that demand with CITYWIDE CLEANUP the help of generous donations from businesses and in- Keeping the city green and clean has been an ongo- dividuals. We’d like to thank Jahida Lewis-Crawford Law ing focus since this administration took offi ce in January Firm, Classic Insurance, the Kenner Business Association, 2017. Field crews were out during the fi rst nine weeks of Crescent City Retirement Group, the Kenner Rotary Club, the year beautifying the gardens and medians throughout Metairie Bank, the late Marie Clesi, Sid Bullard and many the city as well as picking up trash and trimming trees. other individuals and businesses.. Kenner Progress

occasions with fl owers as a special way of thanking these line, an arrangement we are anxious to continue once the important front line workers. pandemic is over. We promoted a very popular Bear Hunt and Easter Egg Hunt on social media and were chosen to FACE MASK ORDER AND MASK host a number of fun events – including Concert in Your UP KENNER SOCIAL MEDIA Car, the Cruisin Da Lake fundraiser and a Custom Cruis- ers fundraiser in The Esplanade mall parking lot. CAMPAIGN In City Court, with the help of CRC Global Solutions, we created a kiosk that allows defendants to safely come to court and interact with prosecutors and judges without any health risk to themselves or court employees. SUPPORTING MEALS ON WHEELS COVID-19 ECONOMIC IMPACT When the Jefferson Council on Aging Meals on Wheels The impact from COVID-19 was signifi cant, but so was our response. Declines were recorded in sales taxes, Program lost drivers during the pandemic due to positive A mandatory face mask order went into effect on July property taxes and revenue from licenses and permits. COVID-19 tests, we stepped in to make sure the 220 seniors 2, and at the same time, we started the Mask Up Kenner For the 2020-21 fi scal year, total revenue that had been in our area who rely on this important service – including social media campaign. Mask Up Kenner was a creative estimated at $65.4 million was down 9.2 percent. Sales 150 Kenner residents – did not miss a day of meals. City way to emphasize the importance of wearing face masks. taxes were down $9.2 million and licenses and permits employees and volunteers handled the daily meal delivery A number of well-known individuals, all residents or with were down $1.6 million. We did record increases in ser- for seven weeks. Thanks to the Vineyards Church, Kenner strong Kenner connections, agreed to appear in public vice charges, property taxes and the $3.6 million we re- Rotary Club and service announcements that were posted on social me- ceived due to CARES Act funding. many Kenner city dia over a fi ve-week period. Thanks to John Curtis head- employees for vol- Due to our normal conservative budgeting, as well as master J.T. Curtis Jr., Sidney Torres, owner of IV Waste, unteering and mak- very immediate and prudent fi scal measures, including Al Copeland Jr., owner of Copelands restaurant, Lauren ing a difference for a hiring freeze, a zero dollar purchase review threshold LeBlanc Haydel, owner of Fleurty Girl, entertainer Rockin seniors in need. and money from the CARES Act funding, we were able Dopsie Jr., Jahida Lewis-Crawford, owner of Lewis-Craw- to continue to provide all essential services without lay- ford Law Offi ce, Miguel Elias, owner of Miguel A. Elias law MEALS ON WHEELS PLUS offs or furloughs of our city employees. Thanks to the ap- fi rm and many others. We created the Meals on Wheels PLUS program in proval by the federal government of a COVID-19 vaccine, April to supplement the food received by Kenner resi- CITYWIDE CLEANUP we look forward to a much improved fi nancial picture dents through the Jefferson Council on Aging’s Meals on throughout this year. Wheels Program. By providing additional nutritional food CONTINUES items once a week for a total of seven weeks, including COVID-19 and several of the storms that threatened HURRICANE ZETA baskets delivered for Easter and Mother’s Day, seniors the city limited our efforts to continue the citywide clean- at high risk for serious complications from COVID-19 up that was started earlier in the year. But we refocused could limit the number of trips outside their homes to the on the cleanup efforts beginning in August and through grocery story. This important assistance to our seniors the end of the year. Thanks to the hard-working members would not have been possible without the generosity of of Kenner’s fi eld crews for their dedication to the city. The Ronnie and Jenny Mains of CRC Global Solutions, along cleanup targeted medians, trees to be trimmed, high grass with Gulf Coast Bank and McMyne Enterprises. and trash on major thoroughfares. The work also includ- ed street light repairs for the poles maintained by the city. FOOD AND City crews worked alongside Risk Tree Service, the city’s FACE MASK tree contractor. More than 2,400 trees were trimmed and 42 trees were removed as part of the cleanup. GIVEAWAYS Hurricane Zeta hit Kenner late in the afternoon on Oct. A total of 11 drive-th- HANDLING THE PANDEMIC 28, with the eye passing directly over much of our area. ru giveaways of food or WITH INNOVATION AND Zeta made landfall with winds just 1 mph short of Cate- face masks, and in some gory 3 status, knocked out power to more than 26,000 instances both, were held CREATIVITY Entergy customers in the city and downed hundreds of in locations throughout the city. Thanks to donations As we continued to provide essential services trees, light poles and power lines throughout Kenner. from several businesses and individuals, we were able to throughout the pandemic, we also came up with new The practice provide this important assistance to residents. and different ways to offer programs to give families an from responding important diversion and a bit of normalcy during a very to six other storms RECOGNIZING FRONT LINE diffi cult time – all at no cost. These programs included during the season WORKERS Zumba and martial arts classes online – which normally paid off in both our Healthcare workers at Ochsner-Kenner were hon- are offered in person through the Recreation Department. preparation and ored during a special ceremony in April that included my- We entered into a relationship with the Louisiana Parti- response to Zeta. self and members of my administration, as well as fi rst mento Conservatory to provide free music lessons on- We kept residents responders from the city and throughout the area. It was informed, even as an honor to recognize the healthcare workers who risk so Zeta was moving through the city, with a total of 46 social much and provide invaluable assistance to residents. media posts and 24 public service announcement videos In addition, members of the City Council and I held in just one week. With the help of Public Service Commis- Appreciation Luncheons for city fi eld crew workers. We’d sioner Eric Skrmetta, who spent a great deal of time in the like to thank a number of local businesses for donations, city, as well as an excellent response from Entergy, more including IV Waste, CADA Insurance and Mr. Pigglesworth than 92 percent of residents had their power restored in BBQ, making the drive-thru lunches possible. We also just four days. According to Entergy, work to restore pow- recognized workers at the city’s senior facilities on several er due to an outage caused by a Category 2 storm takes City of Kenner - Mayor’s Report - 2020

– on average - about THREE MILLAGE RENEWALS The hospital received the American Heart Association/ two weeks or longer to American Stroke Association Gold Plus Quality Achieve- complete. PLACED ON APRIL 2021 ment Award and Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll Award. Members of the BALLOT BY CITY COUNCIL Ochsner also is an active supporter of the commu- city’s Municipal Emer- The millages approved were: A 7.4-mill renewal for nity and we utilized the hospital’s medical expertise on gency Response Team the Fire Department, with an annual increase of $313,000. COVID-19 to make decisions to protect the health of city quickly hit the streets A 1.61-mill renewal for garbage services with an increase workers and Kenner residents. during the early eve- of $71,000 and a 1.14-mill renewal for sewer services ning of Oct. 28 to with an increase of $48,000. Each of the millages is at the TREASURE CHEST CASINO assess damage and target storm debris blocking major levels originally approved by voters. The increases are due Money from the casino funds Police Department op- thoroughfares. The debris estimate from the storm was to recent property reassessments by the Jefferson Parish erations, as well as citywide capital improvements. The as much as 150,000 cubic yards – the equivalent of about Assessor’s Offi ce. The election is scheduled for April 24. Treasure Chest Casino, which opened in September of 5,000 roll off dumpsters. The debris cleanup involved 1994, is a fl agship supporter of a number of community both Risk Tree Service and IV Waste, along with city RIVERTOWN REVITALIZATION events and is currently exploring land based operations. crews, and was completed in a matter of weeks. AND ESPLANADE MALL HOLLYWOOD SOUTH IN DRIVE-THRU TRUNK OR REDEVELOPMENT PLANS KENNER The city’s Department of Economic Development TREAT RESCHEDULED AND The city continued to attract major television and received a grant award of $180,000 from the Louisiana movie fi lming, despite the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of MOVED TO PONTCHARTRAIN Offi ce of Community Development Disaster Recovery nine productions, including “Unhinged,” the major mo- CENTER Unit to pay for two plans – a Rivertown Revitalization tion picture featuring Russell Crowe, “NCIS: New Orleans” Plan and an Esplanade Mall Redevelopment Plan. We and “Queen Sugar,” among others were fi lmed in the city. issued a Request for Proposals and received 21 pro- In all, the fi lming brought in $67,000 in fees and permits. posals from consultants across the country. The con- tract was awarded to TSW Architects & Planners in At- lanta, whose team includes local realtor Lynda Nugent ALLUVIA APARTMENTS Smith. As part of the information gathering process, This $220 million upscale project from Kenner resi- the planners scheduled a Jan. 20 Zoom meeting with dent Henry Shane of Favrot & Shane Companies features businesses, residents and anyone interested in offer- 928 units that will be built in three phases and located ing input to assist with the development and revitaliza- on 30 acres on Loyola Drive, across from the Lakes of tion of Rivertown and The Esplanade mall. Chateau Apartments. ECONOMIC ENGINES ATLANTIS LAKETOWN While the city was not yet in a position to safely hold the drive-thru Trunk or Treat that had been planned for OCHSNER HOSPITAL – City Park on Halloween, the event was rescheduled for KENNER Nov. 6 in the parking lot of the Pontchartrain Center and The hospital includes about 150 doctors, nurse attracted a line of cars that at one point was lined up down practitioners and advanced medical providers who of- Williams Boulevard all the way to West Esplanade Avenue. fer expert care in nearly 80 specialties. Ochsner was KENNER’S EMERGENCY on the frontlines for COVID-19 response, including a COVID treatment trial sponsored by the National Insti- RESPONDERS tutes of Health. An exciting $450 million proposal to develop Six new KPD offi cers graduated from the Kenner Po- Laketown was received during the year from Atlantis lice Academy which was held during the year. Partners LLC. The proposal includes two condo hotels, The Kenner Fire Department hired six new fi refi ghters a boardwalk, retail shopping, an outdoor stage, meeting and ended the year with a $3.8 million budget shortfall. space and walking paths. This development will change The Fire Department’s Urban Search and Rescue team Laketown and Williams Boulevard and provide an helped storm victims following three of the strongest hur- incredible economic stimulus for our city. ricanes to affect the state. The KFD sent fi refi ghters and equipment to assist in recovery efforts in Calcasieu Parish CONCLUSION after Hurricane Sally, Vernon Parish after Hurricane Laura We are extremely fortunate to have an incredible team and Orleans and St. Bernard parishes after Hurricane Zeta. at both the city, parish and state levels that is dedicated to moving Kenner forward. It is because of this impressive team and our ability to work so well together that I am confi dent that 2021 will be a year of recovery, a year in A new, state-of-the-art 16-bed ICU was opened and which we begin to rebound from the fi nancial downturn the hospital began using a special robotic surgery device, brought on by COVID-19, making us all KENNER PROUD. the DaVinci X System, for general, urologic and gyneco- logical surgeries. This system allows for less pain and quicker recoveries. Ochsner-Kenner earned an “A” Spring 2020 Hospi- tal safety grade. In addition, Brandi K. Jones, MD, was named Physician of the Year and Victoria Smith, MD, was named an inaugural recipient of Ochsner’s Diversity and Kenner Progress Inclusion Award. KENNER STHR H JANUARY 2021 11 Living COVID-safe wintertime activities for seniors to enjoy Innovative heart care,

By Michelle Lovitt stay connected, start a new relationship and partake in the joy of writing and receiving. close to home. While the pan- Dig into nature’s delights demic wages on and If you have a green thumb or fancy yourself a gar- Our team of cardiologists work closely with we edge closer to one full year of the often-overwhelm- den enthusiast, you don’t have to let the chilly weather each patient to develop a customized healthcare ing threat of COVID-19, some things remain steady as put a damper on your endeavors. As a matter of fact, plan that is both targeted and effective. ever –like the clockwork transition from one season to there are certain vegetables that actually taste better From routine diagnostics to specialized procedures, the next. As the onset of blustery, cold weather kicks after being exposed to frost. These include varieties like into high gear, many seniors and their loved ones are kale, Brussel sprouts and cabbage. Ochsner heart specialists are equipped to provide challenged to maintain a strong focus on safety and Winter is also a great time to perform any neces- optimum care in cardiovascular medicine. social distancing, all without succumbing to the poten- sary pruning of fruit trees, vines, deciduous shrubs and tially harmful effects of social isolation, cabin fever and ornamental trees. And it’s the perfect opportunity to be- boredom. gin planning the new year’s blooms and harvests. Con- In truth, the carefulness warranted to counteract sider plotting out your garden spaces, ordering seeds the dangers of the virus have left many seniors feeling and summer bulbs and building your garden design. the monotony of daily life during a pandemic. And win- Stretch it out ter’s sometimes gloomy outlook can bring fresh concern The practice of yoga has long been known to help from older adults and their loved ones. But even though people manage stress and anxiety, improve flexibil- things look quite a bit different than they used to, there ity and coordination, support mental clarity, increase is still plenty of opportunity for seniors to engage their strength and promote overall physical health. Often, spirits and enjoy the season. when we think of yoga activities, we envision young, So, let’s get a little creative and spark some win- able bodies stretching and contorting in difficult posi- tertime fun. Check out the following COVID-safe winter tions. The truth, however, is that yoga can be practiced activities to help foster enthusiasm and engagement for by people of all ages and abilities and has become quite yourself or the senior in your life. popular among the senior population in the form of Put a pot on chair yoga. Our Providers Balance your outdoor excitement with a cozy Ultimately, staying engaged this winter is all about indoor experience that’s sure to bring new meaning finding joy in new activities all while practicing them to the term “comfort food.” Winter is a great time to safely. Particularly amidst the challenge of a global pan- experiment with new recipes for satisfying soups and demic, many seniors and their families are finding that stews. From traditional options like chicken noodle perhaps a senior living home that offers this type of on- soup and beef stew, to more adventurous selections like going engagement in a warm, home-like environment is white bean, butternut squash, split pea or carrot ginger, the best option to meet their changing needs from one there’s an array of choices to try out especially given our season to the next. Cajun roots! Jonathan Bonilla, M.D. Mark Gonzalez, M.D. Barbara Hubbell, NP Put pen to paper Michelle Lovitt is the owner of Audubon Care This winter consider engaging with a pen pal (or a Homes, located at 4713 Dreyfous Avenue in Metairie. few) to keep the lines of communication open and have For more information and to schedule a personal tour something to look forward to. It’s been said that the very of Metairie’s newest residential assisted living home, act of writing can help improve memory function, de- call 252-2640 or email [email protected]. crease the symptoms of certain medical conditions and Visit the Audubon Care Homes’ website at www.audu- evoke greater feelings of happiness. This is a fun way to boncarehomes.com.

Ice House some seven decades. Ricki Linarello, NP Daniel Morin, M.D. Zola N’Dandu, M.D. Paul Rogers, M.D. from page 1 Ricca’s father owned a grocery and was one of the first in the nation to offer a self-service meat department, proudly says Ricca. which helped lead to the big-box grocery stores of today An area of the Ice House’s business that has flour- with their commitment to self-service. ished despite all of 2020’s many problems is their ability While offering a large selection of beer and bev- to sell novelty Blue Bunny ice cream to a fleet of inde- erages, Ice House also has keg rentals, seafood boiling pendent ice cream trucks. In charge of the ice cream products, propane filling, a refilling water vending sta- operation is Ricca’s daughter, Paige. “Distributing to the tion and also runs a self-service car wash. New items re- ice cream trucks has proven to be a big success. An ice cently added for sale are cases of paint balls, Co2 tanks Saira Samani, M.D. Gregory Vorhoff, M.D. George Yousef, M.D. cream treat provides a nice break for both the kids and and filling of HPA tanks for those who enjoy paint ball. their parents,” said Ricca. During Mardi Gras season, Ice Houses adds Randazzo’s “We’ve always been pretty innovative,” says Ricca. Camelia City Bakery King Cakes. “Keep an eye on my daughter Paige. She is very smart Ice House is open seven days a week on Monday and inventive. Who knows? She might turn out to be the through Thursday from 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Fri- smartest of all the Riccas.” day and Saturday from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. and from The success of the Ice House operation is 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. Visit ochsner.org/schedule or call 504-608-1069 part of a Ricca family tradition that goes back Their website is www.theicehousekenner.com. 180 W. Esplanade Ave. | Kenner, LA 70065 Happy New year from the staff of the Kenner Star 12 JANUARY 2021 H KENNER STHR Law Make sure your automotive Happy New Year! insurance policy includes from AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION uninsured motorist coverage and DENNIS AUTOMOTIVE By Dennis E. Rinck, Jr. The beginning of the new year is a great time are the victim of a “hit and run” by an unknown driver. to talk with your insurance company or agent about Under certain circumstances, UM coverage can even your policies, discounts, rates and coverages, espe- cover damages caused by a “miss and run.” If an un- 2 0 cially your automotive insurance policy. Most people known driver causes an accident without physical con- just pay their premiums every month without any tact to your vehicle, such as running you off the road certainty of what coverages they have. Although or dropping something in the roadway, your damages 2 0 many people may think they have “full coverage,” may still be covered by UM insurance if you can prove what they usually have is just state-required liability by an independent and disinterested witness that the 2 1 coverage or “minimum coverage.” What they don’t injury and other damages were the result of the ac- realize is that liability coverage only covers the other tions of the driver of another vehicle whose identity is Working from home? person in an accident. Given that many people on the unknown or who is uninsured or underinsured. road don’t have insurance at all and still more don’t UM coverage can also extend to your passen- have enough insurance, what coverage do you have gers at the time of the accident, covering any dam- ssion • D smi e nn May be time to to cover yourself in an accident? That’s where Unin- ages they may suffer. UM coverage will also extend n is ra A T u t sured Motorist, or UM, coverage comes in. Uninsured to cover you as a passenger in another vehicle. UM ic o t m a motorist coverage is often overlooked, but extremely coverage can also cover you if you are injured by an o have your m

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A vehicle updated! When you purchase auto liability insurance, you you are not in a vehicle, but rather as a pedestrian, F a d m te are given the option to also purchase UM insurance at cyclist or otherwise. ily era Owned and Op your liability limits, lower than your liability limits (if All of these benefits of UM coverage can also AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION your liability limits are more than $15,000) or to reject extend to cover spouses, children and other relatives Expect the Best! UM coverage entirely. Depending on the insurance who are members of the same household as the in- DENNIS AUTOMOTIVE company, there may be another limited option called sured. “Economic Only” or UMEO. While UM covers medical UM coverage is also relatively cheap compared costs, accident-related expenses, lost wages, pain and to liability and other insurance coverages, and the 504-466-1381 • www.dennisauto1.com suffering, and other general damages, UMEO limits extent of what it covers makes it worth the extra cost 2220 Airline Drive • Kenner coverage to only those damages that can be measured to have. in specific monetary terms such as medical expenses Although UM coverage is governed by legal and lost wages but does not provide coverage for gen- statute, insurance companies write their own poli- eral damages like pain and suffering. cies. Therefore, what one insurance company covers As the name says, UM coverage can cover your in UM may be different than another company’s UM damages if you are hit by an uninsured driver. Many policy. Also, some exclusionary clauses in UM cover- people don’t know the other benefits of having UM age may be against Louisiana law or public policy coverage. UM coverage can also cover any damages and, thus void. Accordingly, an experienced attorney caused by an underinsured driver. The minimum lia- should review UM coverages and exclusions in your bility limits of $15,000 that most people carry in Loui- insurance policy to make sure that you are getting all siana do not cover much once you take into consider- the great benefits of having UM coverage. ation medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering This information has been provided for informa- GOT GOLD from injuries caused by an automobile accident. UM tional purposes only and is not intended and should coverage can cover your damages that exceed the not be construed to constitute legal advice. or SILVER? other driver’s liability limits. Too often we see people in serious accidents that have no way to cover the Dennis E. Rinck, Jr., a member of the Louisi- damages. The person causing the damage can’t pay ana State Bar, is a lifelong Kenner resident, prac- and doesn’t have enough insurance to cover the full ticing attorney and owner of Rivertown Law Center, WE PAY amount of the damages. Having UM insurance in this L.L.C., located at 1824 Williams Boulevard, Suite situation can cover the costs and expenses from be- C in Kenner. Motor vehicle accidents, personal in- CASH!! ing injured and make sure you get fully compensated juries, maritime and traffic violations are Rinck’s for your losses. primary areas of practice. Rinck can be reached at UM coverage can also cover your damages if you 704-1194 or [email protected]. PAWN • Jewelry • Instruments • Electronics • And More! Education SELL • Collectibles St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School hosts January Loans from $100 - $10,000 Open House Interested parents are asked to visit the CONFIDENTIAL APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE school’s website at www.seasschool.org to register St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School will host an for a specific tour time and to indicate what grade “The friendliest pawn shop in town!” “Open House” for prospective parents of students or grades they are interested in. Private tours are in pre-kindergarten 1 through seventh grades on also available. Parents interested in a private tour Wednesday, January 20, 2021. should call the school office at 468-3524. 3405 Williams Blvd. - Suite 3 • 305-1616 www.fastcashpawnla.com KENNER STHR H JANUARY 2021 13 Health Community Make your resolutions stick 14th annual Toys for Tots giveaway held as By Norman Vince Hill, M.D. drive-thru event due to COVID

With the start of Drink more water. Hydration has a big impact On December 16, 2020, the 14th annual United School for the Arts, G.T. Woods and Walter G. Schneck- 2021, “new year, new on your energy level and alertness. It’s recommended States Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots huge toy giveaway enburger. The event included a station to give away me” is a common that adults drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of wa- was held as a drive-thru event at the Pontchartrain cookies and punch to the kids. mantra. From losing ter a day. Next time, instead of reaching for a carbon- Center in Kenner. The event was sponsored and or- “This is a great event for the community and is weight to eating better, ated beverage or another cup of coffee, pause and se- ganized by iBarnes, a non-profit organization that is growing every year,” Kenner Mayor Zahn said, “We’d many common New Year’s resolutions are focused on lect a water instead. Need help keeping track? There dedicated to providing child and family services to like to thank iBarnes founder Makeisha Barnes, along improving your health. Making conscious, smart, food are many great apps that can help you log your daily people who are faced with adversity. Kenner Mayor with the United States Marine Corps and the other and fitness choices every day is not easy. It’s impor- water fluid intake. Ben Zahn and other city officials participated and sponsors who make this possible.” tant to remember that beginning and maintaining a Remove temptation. Clear off those countertops helped distribute toys. Barnes said she and a group of friends wanted healthy lifestyle is a marathon, not a sprint. Follow- of any unhealthy snacks that may tempt you. Put fruit Makeisha D. Barnes, founder of iBarnes, said to give back to their community following Hurricane ing a few simple tips can help you to get – and stay out, instead! If you see it, you may want to eat it. If hid- the program has grown significantly in the past few Katrina and decided in 2006 to organize a toy distribu- – healthy in the new year. ing unhealthy snacks away doesn’t stop the munching, years and now focuses on kids from newborn to the tion program to give toys to kids. The program became First, start small. Make manageable and throw them out and don’t replace them the next time age of 16. The four elementary schools in Kenner that successful and the Marines joined the picture soon af- achievable personal goals for yourself so you don’t you go to the grocery store. participated were Chateau Estates, Clancy-Maggiore ter as a major supplier. get overwhelmed and give up on them. Instead of There will be times when you fail, but that’s OK. treating the new year as a “once a year” goal-setting Give yourself a little grace to make a better health- time, try to think of each new month as a fresh start. focused decision the next time and go from there. Re- Choose one to two items you’d like to focus on each member: it takes time to build good habits into your month. Then, you can turn your resolutions into daily routine, but the benefits are worth it! reality by putting together specific steps or “to-do” items. This will lead you in the right direction to- Dr. Norman Vince Hill is a double board-certi- ward meeting your broader goals. fied pediatrician and adult internal medicine physi- Be specific about your goals.Make detailed cian. As a child with a chronic illness, he developed resolutions that will help you to achieve them and give an appreciation for pediatrics which drove him to you a visible goal you can plan toward. pursue a career in medicine. Dr. Hill attended medi- Reward yourself. Celebrate your successes in cal school at the University of Maryland in Baltimore achieving your resolutions and steps along the way. and completed a dual internal medicine and pedi- If improving your overall health is at the top of atrics residency at Georgetown University. During the list, it’s important to be conscious of what you’re residency he gained exposure to adult and pediatric putting into your body. These three strategies can help: primary care and specialized training in pediatric Go on a sugar strike! Sugar contains a lot of calo- transplant and neonatal intensive care. To schedule ries with no essential nutrients. Consuming too much your next pediatrics or internal medicine appoint- sugar or sweets can lead to diabetes, heart disease, ment with Dr. Hill at Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner liver problems and premature aging. Make a habit of or Ochsner Health Center-Driftwood, call 443-9500 or checking food product labels and try to opt for prod- schedule online at www.ochsner.org. ucts with less sugar.

Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner initiates COVID-19 vaccinations of frontline healthcare workers • Motor Vehicle Accidents In mid-December 2020, • Personal Injury Ochsner Medical Center- Kenner began vaccinating • Admiralty & its frontline healthcare Maritime workers against • Traffic Tickets COVID-19. Vaccinations Dennis E. Rinck, Jr. - Attorney, Tiffany Callaghan - Office Manager/Paralegal, are voluntary and in this • Notary Public Bianca Rios - Legal Assistant, first phase as outlined Jose Martinez - Legal Assistant by the state and the CDC, only those employees Free Consultation with direct COVID-19 Let us help you! exposure are eligible. The 1824 Williams Blvd., Ste. C • Kenner, LA 70062 vaccines are by Pfizer and Corner of Williams & W. Metairie across from Kenner City Hall will require a second dose 21 days following the first shot for full protection. 14 JANUARY 2021 H KENNER STHR Education Jefferson Parish committed to ensuring COVID safety in schools By James Gray, Ed.D. – Jefferson Parish Schools Superintendent. quarantines continue to be one of our most effective precautionary tactics to keep schools open and reduce As we begin the I am proud of the high-quality teaching and learning very best teachers, support staff and administrators in the risk of spread. new year, it’s important that is taking place, the relationships teachers and Jefferson Parish, and their love and care for each of Utilizing the strategies above, we are doing every- we take time to re- administrators have built with their students and the their students is evident every time I visit a classroom. thing within our abilities to protect the well-being of ev- flect on the year prior. rich educational opportunities. We have some of the It’s undeniable that 2020 has been a tough year eryone on campus. Our top priority continues to be stu- for everyone, and we had many challenges to overcome dent learning, and we know from student assessments while remaining committed to delivering the best out- and conversations with parents and teachers that the FOR SALE SALE PENDING comes for our students. But through it all, each and majority of our students learn best from in-person in- every one of our educators have gone above and beyond struction. As long as it is safe to do so, we want to keep to adapt and deliver the best outcomes for the students in-person learning as an option for students. Our educa- of Jefferson Parish. While everyone is feeling a sense of tors continue to work tirelessly to ensure a safe, healthy optimism and positivity as we embrace the new year, we and positive teaching and learning environment. $299,000 must continue to adhere to our health and safety proto- As we begin 2021, I am excited about what the 406 Genet Drive, Arabi $319,000 2201 Onzaga Street • New Orleans cols. Unfortunately, COVID-19 is not yet behind us. future holds for Jefferson Parish Schools. The past year Therefore, I’d like to take a moment to reaffirm has shown us that we can handle anything when we SOLD the health and safety practices in our schools. As out- work together towards a common goal. As long as we FOR LEASE lined in Start Strong Jefferson, we are diligent in follow- keep students at the center of every decision we make, ing safety protocols including temperature checks, face we will continue to advance to be a top school district $290,000 masks and social distancing to the maximum extent in the state. 4333 Illinois Avenue, Kenner possible, as well as increased hand washing and disin- SALE PENDING fecting of high-touch surfaces. According to the Centers Dr. James Gray is superintendent of Jefferson K for Disease Control, the risk of spread is decreased Parish Schools, the largest and most diverse district REALTOR when these mitigation strategies are in place. in Louisiana, serving around 51,000 students. Dr. Residential • Commercial When principals are made aware of a COVID-19 Gray is a 25-year veteran of public education and $800 4829 WABASH Street #106 • Metairie positive case within our schools, they notify all employ- most recently served as Jefferson Parish Chief of 3540 S I-10 Service Rd. W, Ste. 300 $289,900 ees and families from that school of potential exposure Schools. Follow JP Schools on Instagram and Twit- 4828 Rye Street • Metairie Metairie, LA 70001 and require all close contacts to quarantine. As a result, ter at @jpschools. LOT FOR SALE LOT FOR SALE Office 504.883.5252 Fax 504.883.5172 [email protected] Quarantine protocols for Jefferson Parish

$298,000 $293,000 Schools updated based on Louisiana Department 532 Soraparu Street • New Orleans 538 Soraparu Street • New Orleans The new guidance issued from the Louisiana of Health guidance Department of Health gave school districts the choice Following updated quarantine guidance released to maintain the current 14-day quarantine period, re- Kenner School Spotlight: by the Louisiana Department of Health and Centers for duce the quarantine period to 10 days without testing Disease Control, Jefferson Parish Schools has revised or reduce the quarantine period to seven days with a G.T. WOODS ELEMENTARY its quarantine protocols. Effective December 21, 2020, negative COVID test. The new 10-day protocol is only ap- any student or employee determined to have had close plicable when the student or employee is asymptomatic. At G.T. Woods Elementary, we believe it is vital to prepare contact exposure to a COVID-19 positive individual will Daily symptom monitoring must continue for 14 days our students to be successful learners as well as active be required to quarantine for 10 days. This is a decrease after exposure. In addition, students and employees contributors in the 21st century. Our stakeholders are from the previous quarantine requirement of 14 days should continue to adhere to mitigation strategies such committed to work together to achieve our shared and is based on the professional recommendations of lo- as wearing a face covering, distancing and hand wash- vision, mission, and goals. All of our students will excel cal healthcare officials and input from key stakeholders. ing. If symptoms develop, students or employees should as critical thinkers and problem solvers with the skills “The updated quarantine guidance allows us to isolate and contact their healthcare provider and im- return students and employees to campus sooner to mediate supervisor. needed to compete in a global society. resume teaching and learning while adhering to the For more information on JP Schools and its Start Our mission is to provide opportunities for students most up-to-date health guidance to ensure everyone’s Strong Jefferson health and safety plan, visit www.jp- to learn through quality, differentiated instruction. We safety,” said Dr. James Gray, Jefferson Parish Schools schools.org/startstrong. Superintendent. share the responsibility to ensure that all students soar to their highest potential in a safe, welcoming learning environment. Students have opportunities to participate Jefferson Parish Schools receive 4,000 windowed in extracurricular activities like football, soccer, and band with our Hub school. Parents and community members face masks to aid communication between are also encouraged to participate in activities like family literacy night, fall fest, and our annual Mardi Gras ball. teachers and students On December 7, 2020, Jefferson Parish Schools teachers and employees with priority given to those who (JP Schools) was the recipient of 4,000 clear windowed work with the hearing impaired and youngest students. G.T. Woods Elementary is located at 1037 31st Street face masks from Ochsner Health to help teachers and While seeing someone’s lips while communicating can in Kenner. For more information, call (504) 466-6252 students better communicate while adhering to health benefit all individuals, those who rely on phonics and or visit jpschools.org/woods. Wesley Taylor, Jr. is the and safety protocols. Developed by the Ochsner iO team facial expressions will receive the greatest benefit. principal of G.T. Woods Elementary. The school is in collaboration with speech pathologists, the win- Jefferson Parish Schools continues to follow its represented on the Jefferson Parish School Board by dowed masks will enable students to see the instruc- Start Strong Jefferson plan, which was developed us- District 5 member Simeon Dickerson. tor’s lips and remove a potential communication barrier. ing evidence-based guidance from Ochsner Health, the “Our priority continues to be delivering the best Louisiana Department of Education and the Louisiana education and learning environment possible for our Department of Health for health and safety. Start Strong KENNER PUBLIC SCHOOLS students while keeping everyone safe,” said Jefferson Jefferson requires all Jefferson Parish students and em- Alexander Elementary, John James Audubon, Bonnabel High, Chateau Estates Parish Schools Superintendent Dr. James Gray. “Thank ployees to wear face coverings while on campus, in addi- Elementary, Clancy-Maggiore Elementary, Greenlawn Terrace Elementary, you to Ochsner Health for this innovative solution and tion to social distancing, symptom monitoring, increased Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy, Schneckenburger Elementary, Tom Benson School, Washington Elementary STEM School, G. T. Woods Elementary donation. The windowed face masks will greatly sup- hand washing and disinfecting of high-touch surfaces. port teaching and learning while complying with our For more information on JP Schools and its This public service announcement is sponsored by the Shane Family Foundation. health and safety protocols.” health and safety protocols visit www.jpschools.org/ The masks will be distributed to Jefferson Parish startstrong. KENNER STHR H JANUARY 2021 15 Real Estate Five tips for homebuyers who want to make a competitive offer By Sidney Bullard Be ready to move quickly with a contract on a house you can’t afford to fix.” Sidney Bullard, a lifelong Kenner resident working Today’s real es- According to the Realtors Confidence Index, The bottom line is today’s competitive market with Absolute Real Estate alongside her father, Sid Bull- tate market has high published monthly by the National Association of Re- makes it more important than ever to make a strong ard, a Realtor and real estate broker, is working to serve buyer interest and altors (NAR), the average property being sold today offer on a home and a trusted expert can help you rise the community with any and all residential and com- low housing inventory. is receiving more than three offers and is only on the to the top along the way. mercial real estate needs. Bullard can be reached at 512 With so many buyers competing for a limited number market for a few weeks. As soon as you find the right 5664 or by email at [email protected]. of homes. Here are five keys to success for this impor- home for your needs, be prepared to work with your tant stage in the homebuying process. agent to submit an offer as quickly as possible. Listen to your real estate agent Make a fair offer A recent article from Freddie Mac points out Freddie Mac warns that submitting an offer how emotional this can be for buyers and why trusted that’s too low can lead sellers to doubt how serious professionals can help you stay focused on the most you are as a buyer. Don’t submit an offer that will Century Title, Inc. important things. The article said “Remember to let be tossed out as soon as it’s received. The expertise We lose Real Estate Transations For ou your homebuying team guide you on your journey, not your agent brings to this part of the process will help your emotions. Their support and expertise will keep you stay competitive. Freddie Mac advises that “Your you from compromising on your must-haves and fu- agent will work with you to make an informed offer ture financial stability.” based on the market value of the home, the condition Real Estate Your real estate professional should be your of the home and recent home sale prices in the area.” primary source for answers to the questions you have Be a flexible negotiator when you’re ready to make an offer. Your position can be strengthened with an offer Title Transfers Understand your finances that includes flexible move-in dates, a higher price or Having a complete understanding of your bud- minimal contingencies (conditions you set that the Refi nances get and how much house you can afford is essential. seller must meet for the purchase to be finalized). The best way to know this is to reach out to your There are, however, certain contingencies you don’t lender to get pre-approved for a loan early in the want to forego. Freddie Mac explains to “Resist the Real Estate Sales | Mortgages homebuying process. Only 44% of today’s prospective temptation to waive the inspection contingency, es- homebuyers are planning to apply for pre-approval. It pecially in a hot market or if the home is being sold Donations | 1031 Tax Free Exchanges shows sellers you’re a serious, qualified buyer and can ‘as-is’, which means the seller won’t pay for repairs. Expert closing assistance – In operation over 24 years In-house problem solving real estate title attorneys – You’ll need this give you a competitive edge if you enter a bidding war. Without an inspection contingency, you could be stuck We keep you informed – We return your calls Our costs are competitive – Our work is accurate

Finance 3925 N. I-10 Service Road, Suite 230, Metairie • 83099 • FA 8312609 Investment lessons from 2020 Give your family By Christina Sulli Wilson Peace Of Mind Today As the year draws For example, in the current environment, when to a close, it’s fair to say many people have been forced to work and shop from Pre-planning your funeral should be a natural part of life, because that we’ve all learned home, and get their entertainment online, it’s probably it provides you with time to make end-of-life decisions in a something about the not surprising that some parts of the technology sector social, political, physical and environmental forces that have seen their economic activity grow, along with their calm and rational atmosphere have affected everyone. And, in some ways, our lives will stock prices. Here is the key point – investment opportu- be changed, perhaps permanently. But as an investor, nities always exist, especially in times of market stress – Call Today: 466-8577 what lessons can you learn from 2020? and smart investors will find them and incorporate them Here are some to consider into their portfolios in a way that’s appropriate for their The markets look ahead. Here’s something many goals and risk tolerance. investors discovered in 2020 – investment prices don’t al- Patience and discipline can pay dividends. As men- ways move in the same direction as the overall economy. tioned above, the stock market dropped sharply in the This might not have seemed apparent right after the CO- weeks immediately following the pandemic, but then VID-19 pandemic struck in mid-February, as the overall gained steadily for months afterward. Investors who economy and the stock market took big hits. But just tried to “cut losses” and exited the market likely did so about five weeks later, the markets began a rally that last- at the wrong time and missed out on the beginning of the ed several months. During this time, the economy also upturn. Unfortunately, this is not uncommon – investors recovered somewhat, but still remains on weak footing. who overreact to market declines often find themselves What can explain this discrepancy between the on the investment sidelines just when a new rally begins. markets and economic activity? Essentially, economic Rather than being reactive in this way, you may be bet- numbers, such as the unemployment rate and gross do- ter off sticking with a long-term investment strategy and mestic product (GDP), reflect what’s happening today, buying and selling investments only when it makes sense but the markets are always looking toward tomorrow, for your situation, such as when you need to diversify your which means they are anticipating a stronger economic portfolio. For many reasons, it’s unlikely that we’ll see recovery and the results that come with it, such as great- anything exactly like 2020 again. But some of the invest- er corporate earnings in 2021. No one can say for sure ment lessons we learned are applicable in every year – so what the future holds, but you can usually know the mar- keep them in mind for 2021 and beyond. ket’s opinion by its performance. Opportunities will always exist for investors. Al- Christina Sulli Wilson is a financial advisor with Ed- though the coronavirus seems unprecedented, the eq- ward Jones. Wilson’s office is located at 909 West Esplanade, uity markets have rebounded from many crises before it. Suite 109 in Kenner. Wilson can be reached at 467-3995 or at From war to global financial meltdowns, the market has [email protected]. Edward Jones, its em- seen it all. But even at the height of these events, when ployees and financial advisors are not estate planners and cannot provide tax or legal advice. Consult an attorney or the markets might be most affected, individual segments qualified tax advisor regarding your situation. or industries can do well. 16 JANUARY 2021 H KENNER STHR Government New year 2021 preparations and changes By Rafael E. Saddy

People can confer with an attorney who has experience and tip on social media. The Identity Protection PIN venues call 503-1040 or visit www.elcentrola.org. sometimes feel a knowledge in working in this area of the law. program will soon be available to taxpayers na- HCCL Foundation – Located at 2200 Veter- high adrenaline rush One major IRS change for 2021 is with the tionwide. Visit https://go.usa.gov/x7M5H for more ans Boulevard in Suite 200 in Kenner, the organi- because of new prep- Identity Protection PIN program. This January, information. zation offers various programs. For more informa- arations, changes and opportunities that are avail- the IRS Identity Protection PIN Opt-In Program The COVID-19 vaccine is now available. tion and info about other upcoming events call able in the beginning of a new year. A preparation will be expanded to all taxpayers who can properly The World Health Organization believes that 305-5901. that affects many is preparing for the immigration verify their identity. An identity protection PIN is everyone, everywhere who could benefit from Hablemos Claro – Kenner TV (Cox Cable “Temporary Protected Status” or TPS. a six-digit number assigned to eligible taxpayers these vaccines should have access as quickly as channel 76 or U-verse channel 99) Hispanic TV Anyone under the TPS status should make to help prevent their Social Security number from possible, starting with those at the highest risk. programs air every day at 8:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 5:00 sure required documentation, forms and employ- being used to file fraudulent federal income tax The question is for some is should they take or not p.m. and 9:00 p.m. For more information and pro- ment authorizations are in order and updated as returns. This number helps the IRS verify a tax- get the vaccine. Consider the benefits of the vac- gram schedule, go to www.kenner.la.us and click requested by the United States Citizenship and payer’s identity and accepts their tax return. The cine recommended by health care professionals on the Kenner TV logo or go to the Kenner TV Immigration Services (CIS No. 2676-20; DHS online “Get An IP PIN” tool immediately displays and the Center of Disease Control. Based on what Facebook/YouTube page. Docket No. USCIS-2019-2020). The Department the taxpayer’s assigned number. This tool uses we know about vaccines for other diseases, ex- I leave you with this thought. “May the ‘New of Homeland Security is automatically extend- secure access authentication to verify a person’s perts believe that getting a COVID-19 vaccine may Year 2021’ bring you happiness, peace and pros- ing the validity of TPS-related documentation for identity. Taxpayers should review the secure ac- help keep people from getting seriously ill even if perity.” beneficiaries under the TPS designations for El cess requirements before they try to use the “Get you do get COVID-19. Getting vaccinated may also “Happy New Year” and stay positive by testing Salvador, Haiti, Nicaragua, Sudan, Honduras and An IP PIN” tool. protect people around you, particularly people at negative. Nepal from the current expiration date of Janu- There are other ways to get an IP PIN if increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19. ary 4, 2021 for nine months through October 4, someone is unable to pass the secure access au- Rafael E. Saddy is Kenner’s Cultural Di- 2021. For further information on TPS, please visit thentication. Taxpayers with an income of $72,000 Community announcements versity Coordinator, public relations officer for the USCIS TPS web page at www.uscis.gov/tps or or less should complete Form 15227 and mail or Kenner Hispanic Resource Center – The Rafael E. Saddy is Kenner’s Cultural Diversity call 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833). Applicants fax it to the IRS. Taxpayers who cannot verify their center is located at 4312 Florida Avenue and of- Coordinator, public relations officer for the Latin seeking information about the status of their in- identities remotely or who are ineligible to file fers various programs as well as access to informa- American Civic Association of Louisiana (LA- dividual cases may check their case status online, Form 15277 should make an appointment to visit tion and referrals for all sorts of issues. For infor- CAL) and serves on the governing board of direc- available on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov. an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center bringing two mation call 469-2570. tors of Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner. Email If not sure of your status, seek advice from a le- forms of picture identification. This is an in-per- Kenner City webpage – For information Saddy at [email protected]. Correspon- gal professional with experience in immigration. son identity verification. After the taxpayer passes about city resources in Spanish go to www.kenne- dence should be sent to P.O. Box 640284, Kenner, Not getting the proper legal assistance may cause authentication, an IP PIN will be mailed. remergencyresponse.com/resources. LA 70064-0284. more harm than good and create permanent bars For further assistance visit the IRS Taxpayer El Centro Inc. – Offers various business semi- to immigration relief. It is especially important to Assistance Center. Please feel free to share this nars and workshops. For information on events and

Government Jefferson Parish received distinguished budget presentation award for 27th consecutive year

On December 9, 2020, the Jefferson Parish financial plan, an operations guide and a commu- Finance Department became the recipient of the nications device. Budget documents must be rated Catholic Elementary School Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) “proficient” in all four ranking categories and the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the 14 mandatory criteria within those categories to 27th consecutive year. This award is the highest receive the award. form of recognition in governmental budgeting. GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation According to Jefferson Parish President Cyn- Award Program is the only national awards pro- thia Lee Sheng, “This award represents a signifi- gram in governmental budgeting. According to cant achievement by our Jefferson Parish Budget GFOA, award recipients have proven to pioneer Department. I am so proud of our staff, led by JP efforts to improve the quality of budgeting and pro- Finance Director Timothy Palmatier and Budget vide an excellent example for other governments Director Victor J. LaRocca, III, for meeting the throughout North America. highest principles of governmental budgeting year GFOA advances excellence in government after year and receiving this honor.” finance by providing best practices, professional The GFOA of the United States and Canada development, resources and practical research for has recognized the Jefferson Parish Budget Depart- more than 20,500 members and the communities ment for the budget preparation and presentation they serve. There are over 1,600 participants in the for the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2020. In or- budget awards program. The most recent budget ★★★★ ★★★★ der to receive the budget award, Jefferson Parish award recipients, along with their corresponding NEW CAMPUS had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for budget documents, are posted quarterly on GFOA’s effective budget presentation, including how well website –www.GFOA.org. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2021 an entity’s budget serves as a policy document, a Please visit the school website to register for a tour. — www.seasschool.org — PK-1 through 7th Grade KENNER POLICE DEPARTMENT 4335 Sal Lentini Pkwy. • Kenner, Louisiana 70065 • 504.468.3524 • [email protected] Drug Tip Hotline 466-3073 KENNER STHR H JANUARY 2021 17 Sports Optimism reigns as Pelicans start 2020-2021 season

By Ken Trahan space the floor, keep defenses honest and to cre- who, when called upon, can give you valuable Sacramento and Minnesota have some as- ate space for Williamson to work on the baseline minutes through his hard style of play, providing sets but the Pelicans look to have a better roster The words opti- and in the paint. maximum effort. than both. mism and 2020 do not The addition of Steven Adams gives New Or- Subtracting Jrue Holiday, E’Twaun Moore, Memphis has a brilliant young guard but you mix, do they? leans an upgrade at the center spot. Derrick Favors, Frank Jackson, Kahlil Okafor have to like the New Orleans roster better. How can they, Adams is a tough dude, willing to bang with and Kenrich Williams while adding Adams, Lewis, What is the prognosis for New Orleans? based on what 2020 has brought us? anyone, with length, with offensive rebounding Bledsoe looks to be even, if not a favorable devel- In a tough conference, the goal has to be Optimists always talk about how the sun will ability, defensive rebounding ability and he is a opment. to post a winning record and to simply make the always rise tomorrow. rugged defender. The one real loss is obviously Holiday, an playoffs. Sometimes it does. Adams does not need the ball to be a good elite defender and a competent to solid offensive That will require at least 43 wins, likely as Sometimes, the cloud cover hovers. player and that is a good thing on a team with player. many as 45, to have a chance. Where the 2020-21 New Orleans Pelicans are Williamson and Ingram dominating the offense, Everyone liked Holiday and everyone would New Orleans has the roster, the ability to concerned, there is genuine reason for optimism. along with point guard Lonzo Ball. like to see him fare well but this team needs to achieve it. With a new, proven head coach who has As for Ball, this is his decision year. become more of Zion’s team moving forward. Much will depend on staying healthy and skins on the wall and will command the attention Opinions on Ball are split dynamically. The Western Conference is once again tough. on a young roster blending well in “The Blender,” of a young roster, there is a stronger feeling of Some view him as a star or future star. To be sure, you can pencil in the Lakers, Clip- where few fans will occupy seats this season. someone at the controls who will control his play- Others view him as overrated, not able to pers, Nuggets and Mavericks. They simply have ers, the style of play and the message conveyed. finish at the rim and not able to shoot the ball better rosters than the Pelicans, at this stage. Ken Trahan serves as owner and chief ex- Stan Van Gundy has not won in recent years consistently enough to impact a defense. Utah remains good and perhaps ahead of ecutive officer ofCrescentCitySports.com and but he has won previously. Van Gundy has said nothing but good things New Orleans as well. as sports director of NASH ICON FM 106.1. Tra- Were the Pelicans a veteran team, Van Gun- about Ball, who could be in a contract year. It is Then comes a mix of Portland, with superb han hosts sports talk shows nightly as well as dy might not be the right fit. put up or shut up time for a talented but inconsis- guard play, along with vastly improving Phoenix “Ken Trahan’s Original Prep Report” on Friday Given the fact that New Orleans is a young tent player who just may emerge to become the and what should be a rejuvenated Golden State nights during the football season and “The Three team, Van Gundy, on the surface, appears to be a star that many think he can be. squad with Steph Curry back. Tailgaters Show” with Ed Daniels Saturday good fit, like a glove. If he does not, the Pelicans will not hesitate The Pelicans will also have to deal with mornings from 10:00 a.m. until noon. Trahan is As the new year arrives and a new season is to give minutes to and give the offense to one of always tough San Antonio, Houston, Memphis, the general manager of the Saints Hall of Fame underway, the optimism begins with the roster two young players in second-year pro Nickeil Al- Oklahoma City, Minnesota and Sacramento. Museum in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome and David Griffin has assembled. exander-Walker or first-round pick Kira Lewis Jr. Is there really a bad team in the conference? does morning sports for all four Cumulus ra- Zion Williamson is in better shape, has a new Alexander-Walker has to make better deci- Houston may fall under the weight of the dio stations in the New Orleans area. Trahan coach, understands what is required of an NBA sions with the ball and has to continue to show James Harden predicament, with a star player serves as the president of Joyful Noise Ministries, player and what it will take to be a star player in that his shot has improved but he is long and in- who does not want to be there. works with Life Resources Ministries and is the league, as he is widely expected to be. There triguing. The Spurs are not the same team. president and emcee of the Greater New Orleans are no “minutes” restrictions. Lewis is flat out fast, quick, with the ability Oklahoma City lost too much to be consid- Quarterback Club. Williamson, at least early on, seems deter- to break down defenders and get to the paint and ered a contender. mined to improve his rebounding and defense, either finish or dish to open shooters and he has a elements of his game which must improve and promising outside shot. elements which Van Gundy has stressed to the Josh Hart remains the “Energizer Bunny,” a young phenom to work on. player who slashes hard to the rim, can shoot the Williamson, by all accounts, has bought in corner 3-pointer, runs the floor and plays hard on to Van Gundy and has bought in to New Orleans, the defensive end. Hart is a really good rebounder & perhaps more importantly. for his size as well. Bar  i Of course, a similar stage of his career, we Redick remains a consummate pro who said the same about Anthony Davis and Chris understands his role and, more importantly, un- &  ive  ru Service Paul, for that matter. Neither hung around long derstands his strengths and limitations. Redick Dine In term. can still stroke the 3-ball with the best and he is Call orders in & pick up at Will that be the case for Zion? a natural leader, a very important element for a The recent long-term commitment made by very young roster. our drive up window two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo to Eric Bledsoe is a veteran player whose num- small market Milwaukee was a surprising, pleas- bers have gone down most recently but he is still Best Burgers in Town! ant development. very capable offensively of putting up numbers. In a league where the star players run the Perhaps the change of venue will help Bledsoe, show, the biggest star outside of LeBron James despite not playing as well overall for Milwaukee OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK opted to stay with the Bucks, rather than to seek last season as he had previously, still averaged a big market team and to partner with another 14.9 points per game, 5.4 assists and 4.9 rebounds CHECK OUT OUR DAILY SPECIALS AND FULL star or two, as is the rage in the league these days. on an excellent team. He is a decent 3-point MENU ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE burgers, wings The latter is perfectly legal and acceptable. shooter. It just isn’t good for the league or for com- Nicoli Melli remains a nice option as a DAIQUIRI RUN ON 61 poboys & more petitive balance. stretch forward who can step in at center in a If Griffin and Van Gundy can build a roster pinch. Sunday Gallon Dining Room Open! which can compete for a championship, William- Melli’s value is to stretch a defense with his -- Food Delivery -- son will not have to depart to find a better situa- 3-point shooting ability. Melli is also an under- Specials $20 tion. rated defender who works hard on that end of the Uber Eats DoorDash Waitr Then, there is Brandon Ingram. floor. Not valid holidays or special events One of the most improved players in the Jaxson Hayes enters his second year in the league last season, Ingram made the All-Star league. His athletic ability is elite. MONDAY, TUESDAY team and earned it. Hayes can jump out of the building and can His wingspan serves him amazingly well as run the floor as well as any big man in the game. & WEDNESDAY he plays bigger than his height. Has he gotten stronger physically as he can Ingram has the ability to get his shot off on get pushed around. $ 6 LARGE DAIQUIRIS virtually anyone. Has he developed any go-to move in the low Incidentally, that shot has improved vastly, post? and it will be needed. It will be interesting to see how much prog- Daiquiri Run on 61 The Pelicans need another perimeter shoot- ress Hayes has made from his rookie season. 266-2472 4337 Airline Drive Metairie er aside from J.J. Redick to allow the team to Sindarius Thornwell is a working class hero, • • 18 JANUARY 2021 H KENNER STHR

Ochsner Clearview Attention Business Owners from page 1

super clinic will create approximately 300 new health- Be An Achiever! care jobs, as well as construction jobs, as the center is being built. GENERATE The Executive “Ochsner is excited to create a patient-centered SOLID LEADS Achievers Association meets healthcare destination that brings a multitude of ser- LEARN for breakfast bi-weekly at 7 a.m. vices, amenities and wellness offerings into one conve- LEADERSHIP SKILLS nient location,” said Warner L. Thomas, president and multiple locations. This creates a seamless experience Jan. 14 & Jan. 28 chief executive officer, Ochsner Health. “Healthcare and incorporates technology to extend care and col- BE A CONFIDENT and retail are two industries that have greatly evolved laboration beyond the facility’s walls.” PUBLIC SPEAKER Copeland Towers Suite & Conference Center and this super clinic concept and the Clearview City “We are so grateful to Ochsner Health for develop- IMPROVE 2601 Severn Ave, Metairie Center redevelopment are both designed to meet the ing a comprehensive healthcare destination at Clear- needs of today’s consumers. By bringing technology, view City Center,” said Jefferson Parish President Cyn- PROFITABILITY https://eaanola.org specialties and services together, patients will have a thia Lee Sheng. “Creating a modern and convenient THE EXECUTIVE ACHIEVERS ASSOCIATION comprehensive healthcare experience in one location destination for health and wellness will make access- to meet their healthcare needs.” ing resources easier than ever before for our residents Call Randy Lovitt at 836-7136 for more information on becoming a member Starting with 42 physicians, nurse practitioners and businesses. I want to thank Ochsner for their and physician assistants, the super clinic will expand strong partnership, especially during this past year as to more than 70 providers by 2027. Additional features we continue to deal with COVID-19 in our community.” include an outpatient surgery unit with eight operating Clearview City Center’s owners announced plans rooms, an outpatient cath lab, an endoscopy area and in December 2019 to reimagine the shopping center a comprehensive pain management center. Patients into a dynamic and adaptive mixed-use development can also receive outpatient infusion treatments for mi- that includes upscale residential, retail and commer- graines and other conditions. cial office space. The development’s first phase of con- The super clinic will feature a variety of clini- struction began in September 2020. cal programs as well as health and wellness offerings, “We’re thrilled to announce the addition of Och- including women’s services, men’s health, behavioral sner’s innovative super clinic concept to Clearview health, gastroenterology and endoscopy suites, neu- City Center,” said Thomas Richards, Clearview City rology and brain health, comprehensive pain man- Center Managing Partner. “When we shared our plans agement center, cardiology and cath lab, sinus center, to fully redevelop the Clearview footprint just one year sports medicine and physical therapy, ophthalmology ago, these are the type of tenants and services we en- and vision services, outpatient infusion, diagnostic im- visioned would be integral to Clearview City Center be- aging, drive-thru pharmacy, medi-spa and cosmetic coming one of our region’s preeminent live, work and treatments and O Bar, offering the latest cutting-edge, play destinations. Ochsner is the premier healthcare interactive health technology to help patients manage provider in this region, and the level of commitment their health and wellness. they are making reinforces the quality, caliber and “Ochsner’s investment in Metairie not only enhanc- credibility of this entire redevelopment. We look for- es access to care, but creates a more consumer-focused, ward to more announcements like this soon that simi- collaborative and convenient health and wellness expe- larly align with our vision and excitement we have for rience,” said Andrew Wisdom, Ochsner Health Board of the present and future of Clearview City Center.” Directors Chair. “This super clinic will offer a multitude For more information about Ochsner, visit och- of services and resources in one location. Previously, sner.org. For more information on Clearview City Cen- patients may have had to seek care with specialists in ter, visit clearviewcitycenter.com.

information. A decision about whether the victim or Glaser claimant is eligible is usually made within 30 to 45 days. from page 6 The sheriff’s office works with the victim or claimant to COMPLETE orders an offender to make restitution to the victim for review expenses incurred as a result of the crime and an expense which the Crime Victims Compensation determine which ones are eligible for reimbursement has already paid, the victim may be required to reim- or payment. PEST & TERMITE CONTROL burse the fund. If the victim or claimant recovers mon- The right to appeal a decision ey as a settlement in a civil suit against the offender or If the Crime Victims Reparations Board makes a 4400 Wabash Street, Metairie, LA 70001 a third party, the victim or claimant may have to reim- decision with which the victim or claimant disagrees, burse the fund for expenses already paid by the fund. the victim or the claimant has a right under the law (504) 888-4941 • fax (504) 888-8120 Application and claim forms to ask that the decision be reconsidered. The victim Applications are also available from all Louisiana or claimant must notify the Crime Victims Reparations sheriffs’ offices and here at the Kenner Police Depart- Board of the reason for their dissatisfaction and provide ment. The Victim Reparations or Crime Victim Coordi- additional information in this reconsideration process. 24-hour electricAl service nators provide assistance to victims who ask for help in If the outcome of the reconsideration process is not sat- 7 Days filling out application forms. To obtain an application isfactory, an appeal may be made to district court. A W from the Kenner Police Department, contact our crime For more information bELLCO ELECTRiC eek victim coordinator, Dwane Babin, by phone at 712-2270 Call the Crime Victims Reparations Board at (225) 342- Residential • Commercial or by email at [email protected]. Victims may 1749 or write to: also get an application directly from the Crime Victims Crime Victims Reparations Board FREE ESTIMATES Reparations Office at 1-888-6-VICTIM (nationwide). Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement How the application is reviewed? Box 3133 REPLACE FIRE HAZARD FUSE After receiving an application and related docu- Baton Rouge, LA 70821 BOXES WITH CIRCUIT BREAKERS mentation including a complete offense report, the SAVE 20% ON INSURANCE sheriff s office in the parish where the crime occurred Kenner Police Chief Glaser can be reached by reviews the information to see if the crime, the victim email at [email protected]. Visit the Kenner Police De- We install over and/or claimant are eligible for the program. This pro- partment website at www.kennerpd.com. Download Automatic Standby 30 Years cess involves verifying all the information presented in the free Kenner Police Department mobile app for GENERATORS experience the application. Witnesses to the crime, law enforce- both Apple and Android devices and access the Ken- 455-2355 ment officers and prosecutors involved in investigating ner Police Department Facebook and Twitter pages L i c e n s # 2 8 6 1 3 No Job Too Small - We Do all! METAiRiE KENNER N.O. AREA and prosecuting the crime, physicians, counselors, hos- for the latest updated crime, traffic and other law L A LICENSEDLICENSED •¥ BONDEDBONDED ¥ • INSURED INSURED OWNEROWNER RONNIERONNIE BELLACIBELLACI pitals and employers may be contacted for additional enforcement-related information. KENNER STHR H JANUARY 2021 19

Duncan/West Esplanade improvements from page 1 some inconvenience as well during the construc- tion period. Please be sure that you drive carefully through the work area.” Once work is finished in the northeast quad- rant of Canal No. 2, traffic will be diverted to the box culvert that has recently been built and the 4971 West Napoleon Ave. Metairie • 889-9856 traffic detour will be reversed – with eastbound motorists diverted to the westbound side for two- Beer bucket specials way traffic. ****** and great food. WIFI. ****** The project calls for drainage and pedestrian OPEN FOR Every Day improvements. Landscaping and art installation LUNCH Burger Day are future improvements planned in the area. 11 AM Wed. & Sat. ****** Steak Nite ****** OPEN 11 AM - 4 AM

Landscaping & Design, Lawn Cutting, Mulching, Spruce Ups, 1 Shrub Trimming, Fertilizing, Seasonal Color, Lighting, Fountains, Irrigation Systems, Fountains, Grading, Gates, Pavers and more! FREE ESTIMATES Ochsner Kenner Suite 701 of the Ochsner Kenner Medical Office Residential • Commercial from page 1 Building located at 200 West Esplanade Avenue in Kenner, is open from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., including primary care, women’s services, diabe- Monday through Friday. For more information or tes management and more. to book an appointment, call 412-1705. Daren J. Dillenkoffer • 390-8598 or 985-725-0184 • Licensed & Insured The new multi-specialty clinic, located in

0313_First Class Lawn Service.indd 1 2/22/13 9:36 PM Airport from page 1 GBAC STAR is the gold standard of prepared facilities. This GBAC STAR accreditation means that a facility has established and maintained a clean- Recipe Corner ing, disinfection and infectious disease prevention Salmon Sushi Bowl program to minimize risks associated with infectious agents like the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). The By foodieforone.com airport has the proper cleaning protocols, disinfec- Sushi bowl that tastes like a sushi roll! This fun dish is something different, something healthy tion techniques and work practices in place to com- and fun to construct. May this new year be better than the last. bat biohazards and infectious disease and has highly INGREDIENTS 1 teaspoon olive oil 2 6 oz. salmon fi lets teaspoon salt teaspoon pepper teaspoon chili powder informed cleaning professionals who are trained for Toppings outbreak and infectious disease. 1large cucumber, sliced in chunks 1avocado, sliced in chunks 2 teaspoons eel sauce, plus more for drizzling MSY remains committed to providing a safe and Steamed edamame healthy travel journey for its passengers through facil- Marinated Carrots ity cleaning and sanitization, requiring face coverings 1large carrot, julienned cup rice vinegar cup sugar tsp salt inside the terminal, increasing hand sanitizer sta- Sushi Rice tions, adding signage that encourages proper physical 1cup uncooked white rice 1teaspoon toasted sesame seeds distancing and changing procedures to meet recom- Spicy Mayo mended health and safety guidelines. These measures cup mayonnaise 1tbsp sriracha sauce tsp sesame oil keep MSY “Travel Ready” and protects passengers and Building Deconstructed Sushi employees against the spread of COVID-19 and other Make the sushi rice I always start by rinsing off my rice which helps the rice from getting gummy and clumping up. Boil according to the package instructions. After rice is cooked spread onto a parchment-lined baking sheet lined. Allow to germs during their time at the airport. cool. Use reserved liquid from marinated carrots to drizzle on top of rice. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Pickled carrots In medium bowl whisk together rice vinegar, sugar and salt. Add carrots and soak for 1 minutes or while you are preparing the rest of the dish. Cook salmon Grill, bake or broil it with oil and seasonings. I always bake at 400. Spicy mayo In small bowl whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha and sesame oil. Set aside until serving time. 19,405 Assembly Divide rice between two bowls. Top with marinated carrots, sliced cucumbers, avocado, steamed edamame THAT’S THE NUMBER OF REGISTERED VOTER and salmon. Drizzle with spicy mayo, eel sauce and sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds. Serve and enjoy! Seared Tuna can be subbed for salmon. HOUSEHOLDS IN KENNER THAT RECEIVE THE KENNER STAR FREE IN THE MAIL EACH MONTH! The website foodieforone.com is a food blog dedicated to the enjoyment of food with gusto by Joy Fontenelle Hirdes and Gustavo Gonzalez. Comments and questions are welcomed and can be sent to [email protected]. For detailed recipe WANT TO REACH THOSE PEOPLE? directions and step by step photos visit foodieforone.com. Call us to advertise! 468-9125 20 JANUARY 2021 H KENNER STHR

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