VOL. 18, NO. 12 KENNER’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SINCE 1991 dECEMBER 2009

Gregory Carroll, Mayor Muniz asks for additional funds now, members of Kenner District 1 Kenner City Council more inclined to wait Councilman elected. By ALLAN KATZ the $650,000 we lost when the millage was SPEECH HIGHLIGHTS rolled back. Several other agencies realized the In a state of the city speech to members of See page 28. problem and rolled their millages forward to the Kenner Professional and Business keep them revenue neutral. Among them were Association on November 17, 2009, Mayor the Jefferson Parish Sheriff and Coronor’s Ed Muniz insisted that with the nation in the erty tax millage adjustment a few months ago, Offices, the East Jefferson Levee Board, the worst recession in 70 years and with Kenner our governing authority – the City Council – Jefferson Parish School Board and the city of facing a major revenue crisis, the City made an inncoent mistake by rolling back the Harahan. While several government agencies Council should step forward in this crisis tax millage to 18.13 mills. I am now asking the rolled their tax millages forward, Kenner did and heed his proposals. city council to roll that millage forward by 1.4 not. Kenner rolled them back in an effort to See story on page 19. In his speech Muniz said, “During the prop - mills to make it revenue neutral and recapture continued on page 27 Santa Claus is at Kenner’s Christmas Can Rivertown be a money maker? Village, just waiting to greet all the good Mayor Muniz re-opens Heritage Hall as a reception and meeting hall boys and girls By ALLAN KATZ By ALLAN KATZ Mayor Ed Muniz has said for three years Kenner’s Christmas Village is once that Kenner needs to move Rivertown again a huge holiday success, filled from a venue that consumes revenues to with music, food and fun. Families are one that produces revenues. flocking to Christmas Village to get in His administration took a step in that the holiday mood and Santa Claus is at direction recently with the re-opening of the former Wildlife and Fisheries Museum as his jovial best, laughing it up and pos - Heritage Hall, an historic facility that is ing for pictures with boys and girls. available to be rented for weddings, busi - “Christmas Village is one of ness meetings, catered luncheons and din - Kenner’s best and most special holiday ners, musical venues and other events. Built traditions,” says Mary-Sharon in 1907, the two-story brick and masonry Howland, director of community serv - building is considered a preservationist ices for the city. treasure, having been admitted to the “We opened Christmas Village on National Register of Hi storic Places. December 4 and it will remain open Located at 303 Williams Boulevard, the building was a key lo cation in the old continued on page 8 Heritage Hall is available for weddings. continued on page 20 Photo by Barry Sprague Muniz administration installs fleet management Generous Kenner residents donate more than department for Kenner’s eight tons of edibles to city’s food bank vehicles By ALLAN KATZ By ALLAN KATZ City officials and Kenner Food Bank officials expressed gratitude to generous Kenner residents who donated more The administration of Mayor Ed than eight tons of food for those in need. Muniz has implemented a fleet man - “It is just amazing how, in this time of recession and anx - agement program that includes preven - iety, that Kenner residents dug so deeply to give help to the tive maintenance for every one of food bank,” said Mary-Sharon Howland, director of com - Kenner’s 322 pieces of equipment. munity services for the city. She also expressed the gratitude Ronnie Vitellaro, who heads the fleet of the entire city to the Local 4342 Branch of the National management department, said, “We Association of Letter Carriers who picked up the donations estimate that by assigning vehicle in bags distributed by the Kenner Star and the postal offi - maintenance to a group that really cials who endorsed and encouraged the entire effort. understands vehicle maintenance, the Along with the postal carriers who donated their time, city is saving hundreds of thousands of Local postmen Sal Candilora, John Brehm, Ryan dollars. The added benefit is we’ve Stuprich and Adam Ronquillo, members of the Local Howland also acknowledged the food drive’s generous Branch 4342 of the National Association of Letter sponsors, the Kenner Professional Business Association, extended the life of every vehicle in the Carriers, helped collect food during the 20 th annual November food drive for the Kenner Food Bank. Kenner District 3 Councilman Ben Zahn, Kenner Central continued on page 30 continued on page 8 2 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R KENNER ST H R KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 3 4 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 5 H From the Editor Is there a consensus in the making as Kenner ponders its serious financial crisis? By ALLAN KATZ

As I make my way through Kenner’s How did that happen? ern police department and develop a Lakeside Shopping Mall, which cut political, business and civic leaders – As he intended, Mayor Muniz has recreation department that offered some sales volume drastically at the store in along with a lot of just plain folks met at stirred up quite a storm in Kenner. From of the best organized sports of any city Kenner. The city’s sales tax revenues for restaurants and the supermarket – it the time he took office over three years of Kenner’s size in the nation. The city’s the past 17 months have been at a short - appears to me that among those who pay ago, Muniz – who has a deserved repu - financial situation seemed so good that fall and below projections. It is almost attention to the news there is a growing tation for being a very smart guy when it the Kenner City Council rolled back certain the city will not be receiving the consensus that Mayor Ed Muniz is right comes to money – has contended that property tax millages because they said kind of income it has in the past, from when he says the city is facing its worst the city was too dependent on fluctuat - they weren’t needed at that time. And no any of its sources, at any time in the financial crisis since the days of the ing sales taxes and was collecting a property owner was going to turn that foreseeable future, maybe never. great Depression some 80 years ago. lower amount of property taxes due to tax decrease down. As if that weren’t enough, a national At the same time, folks are still think - rolled back millages, providing no safe - But, then, some things happened that, recession hit Kenner and the entire ing this thing through. Lots of smart, ty net in case sales tax revenues fell unfortunately, made Muniz more of a southeastern u.S. That has meant that well-informed people in Kenner are still through the floor. prophet than he wanted to be. First of all, hundreds – perhaps more – jobs have trying to sort the city’s fiscal situation If you studied the last 15 years of of course, there was Hurricane Katrina been lost. understandably, we’re all out. How, after all, could Kenner be in Kenner history, you would have to con - smashing and bashing. The results of the watching our spending, which further financial trouble? What about the clude that Muniz is wrong. Sales tax rev - storm included the facts that the cuts city sales tax revenues from retail income from the Treasure Chest gaming enues, along with monies from the Treasure Chest has had fewer patrons, sales. casino? What about all the money the Treasure Chest and the airport, made the airport had fewer flights and passen - Mayor Muniz is hoping that a politi - city used to get from the Armstrong Kenner the envy of municipalities gers and The Esplanade still hasn’t cal-civic-business consensus will International Airport? And isn’t it a throughout the gulf South. There was recovered. Macy’s came back, but other emerge that will make it possible for shame that the number of stores at The money in Kenner’s coffers, enough to mall stores were lost and the Macy’s Kenner to revamp the city’s revenue Esplanade shopping mall has decreased? fill all the potholes, build a strong, mod - organization built a bigger store at continued on page 8 H Political Review New Orleans mayor’s race taking shape dECEMBER 2009 Vol. 18 No. 12 By JEFF CROUERE Kenner Star is a monthly newspaper and is distributed by direct mail free to all 20,700 registered voter households After a very the second biggest campaign war chest in scheduled over the next few months. If in Kenner. An additional 2,000 copies are distributed in over 100 high traffic locations. slow start the race the race, next to Democrat businessman she can convince voters that she can han - Publisher for mayor of New John georges. dle all of the major issues facing New TROy BROuSSARD Orleans is finally taking shape. Because she is making such a large Orleans, not just education, then Jacobs Editor Currently, there are six serious candi - personal investment in the race, Jacobs will in the top tier of candidates with a ALLAN KATZ dates: businessman John georges, busi - will not have to spend as much time and fighting chance to make the run-off and Managing Editor/Marketing Director CANDy LOVITT nessman Troy Henry, former Orleans effort as the other candidates fundraising. possibly become the next mayor of New Staff Writer/Editor Parish School Board Member Leslie This will give her more time to campaign Orleans. TROy BROuSSARD Jacobs, state Senator Ed Murray, non- and build the type of coalitions that are Will there be any surprise candidates? Contributing Writers profit housing executive James Perry and essential to victory in New Orleans. As a Certainly, there will be more candidates former Judge Nadine Ramsey. white female Democrat, Jacobs is in sync entering the race, including some uncon - STEVE CARAWAy JAMES L. M ELCHERS ED CLANCy ED MuNIZ Last week, Jacobs decided to enter the politically with the majority of voters in ventional ones. For example, comedian JEFF CROuERE CHARLES P. M uRPHy field of candidates, after poll results indi - New Orleans. She also has experience and actor Manny Chevrolet Bruno will KEITH M. D ARCEy JOHN PREVOST cated that the race was winnable. Jacobs working on educational issues with for - almost certainly run again on the slogan, LyNNE DIMM RAFAEL E. S ADDy DAN DORMADy SHARON SOLOMON is well known to New Orleans voters mer governor Mike Foster, a “A troubled man for troubled times.” yVETTE DuSSOuy KEN TRAHAN because of her efforts on behalf of edu - Republican. Her message of public There are also three other potential can - CRAIg gOODWIN DOug TuRNER MARy -S HARON HOWLAND guy WILLIAMS cation reform. For years, Jacobs has been school reform and charter schools will didates who could make a significant PATRICIA MALONE PAOLO ZAMBITO at the forefront of the campaign to reform appeal to Republican voters as well. impact on the race: musician Irvin LINDA R. M ARTIN SCOTT ZIMMERMAN the public school system in New In New Orleans, females comprise Mayfield, attorney Rob Couhig and for - Orleans. She has worked for years as an more than half of the voting electorate. mer judge and councilman, Eddie Sapir. Copy Editors insurance executive and served on the Although no female has ever been elect - Mayfield is a close friend of Mayor MELISSA DRAKE MONICA ZERINguE Board of Elementary and Secondary ed mayor, there is no reason to believe Ray Nagin and has a large following in Education (BESE). In recent years, that it cannot happen. Jackie Clarkson New Orleans. He is not only a trumpet Account Manager BARBARA BELLACI Jacobs has been a strong advocate of and Peggy Wilson have been elected to player, but also a cultural ambassador for charter schools in Louisiana. With New citywide council at-large positions and in New Orleans and the owner of a popular Distribution Manager DAVID SPAKO Orleans witnessing significant improve - 2002 then state Senator Paulette Irons jazz club in the French Quarter. He ment in the local public education sys - was on the threshold of making the may - would be an unconventional candidate Printing BATON ROugE PRESS © 2009 Kenner Star, Inc. tem, Jacobs can claim at least partial oral run-off before a series of campaign that might appeal to a cross section of All Rights Reserved credit for pushing for the serious changes missteps doomed her chances. young voters and those interested in pro - that were needed. The challenge for Jacobs will be to moting the arts. KENNER STAR It is clear that Jacobs will be a serious make inroads in the African American Couhig could become the only P.O. Box 641654 • Kenner, LA 70064 Phone & Fax 468-9125 contender in this campaign. For many community, but her longstanding efforts Republican in the race. He is a well- Email: [email protected] candidates, the most important hurdle is on behalf of public education should known figure who has been a successful

The content of all theme-based columns, campaign funding, but Jacobs will not make her pitch easier. Jacobs is regarded attorney and radio talk show host. He fin - written by respective professionals in this newspaper, is in no way intended to render advice, suggest a have that problem. She announced that as a tough fighter and will not shy away ished fourth in the 2006 mayoral primary course of action, or take the place of an individual she would spend at least $1 million of her from debating the issues with her oppo - election. He eventually endorsed Ray consultation regarding that subject matter. own money on the campaign, giving her nents in the many forums which will be continued on page 30 6 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R H Government Sewerage threat is real By Ed MUNIZ , Kenner Mayor I have spent and selection of a contractor. DEQ up a program to repay the loan and adver - Also, the threat of draconian fines is three years trying approved Kenner’s request for $18 mil - tising for contractors are all that’s left. eliminated. In the parlance of modern to resolve this lion in low interest loans and another It appears we can meet the loan vernacular, this is a no brainer and a city’s serious $4 million a few weeks later, for a total requirements with a $3-a-month win-win situation. sewerage problems – problems that $22 million at less than one percent increase in the sewerage service fee. Now that EPA is watching over all of have resulted from some 40 years of interest. While some may view this as a major this, Kenner must act swiftly and put inattention. Virtually the same day of the original increase, from the current $3.27 a the improvements in place. There As early as May of 2004 Kenner has loan announcement, DEQ sent Kenner month for the first 4,000 gallons to appear to be no impediments if the city been on notice from the state that its a compliance order saying the city $6.27 a month, Kenner ends up with a council is willing to levy the fee sewerage system did not meet federal must improve its sewerage system or fully renovated system for years to increase. Environmental Protection Agency stan - the system can be cut off from dis - come, the expectation of no sewage Thirty-six dollars a year is a minis - dards and was no longer acceptable as charging its treated effluent to any state backups in people’s homes and busi - cule amount to pay considering the a basic sewage collection and treatment water body And be fined $27,500 a day nesses and subsurface sewage collec - benefits sewerage system users will get system. each day that it does not comply. tion lines sealed off from the intrusion and the attendant improvements to It appears that few persons in a posi - On the one hand DEQ offered the of rainwater. health safety. tion of authority in Kenner took the city an olive branch – a large amount of The new monthly fee will still be in I hope that everyone enjoyed a happy state seriously. State officials reported - money to rehabilitate the sewerage sys - the ball park with Harahan at $5.25 a Thanksgiving and I wish all of you a ly were put off, given lip service or tem at low interest – and an enormous month for the first 4,000 gallons and merry Christmas and a happy and pros - worse. threat that if the plans did not proceed $1.20 for each 1,000 above that. Let’s perous new year. god bless. When I became mayor, I asked Prat as promised, and soon, Kenner would not forget that in recent years Harahan Mayor Muniz can be r ea ched at 468- Reddy, public works director at the be in dire financial trouble. did major renovations of its sewerage 7240 or contacted by email at time, to contact the Louisiana Do the math. In just one month, the system and treatment plant. [email protected]. H Department of Environmental Quality city could rack up $825,000 in fines. In and find out what Kenner needed to do. 90 days the fines could quickly reach We found out that many at DEQ didn’t $2,475,000. This is serious stuff. There want to have much to do with Kenner. is another difference between now and KENNER ST H R We wound up meeting several times a few years ago, and it is that EPA is with DEQ and they became convinced doing a tougher job of policing the of our sincerity and offered their help. states. There is no latitude for lip serv - WEBSITE We hired engineering firms to design a ice or putting things off. system that DEQ now considers a Kenner and DEQ have come up with a www.kennerstar.com model for the state. Several projects are solution. DEQ has approved the loan. now shovel ready, awaiting funding Many of the projects are designed. Setting

H Community TWO GREAT LOCATIONS IN KENNER Christmas remembrance service 3501 Chateau Blvd. • 465-9444 701 W. Esplanade • 461-9819 or Cele Ahead f brating Call s! 15 in Kenner to honor deceased o Order years To G The tenth annual “Christmas Service The keynote speaker is JoAnn of Remembrance” will be held at 7:00 Baldwin. Baldwin is a funeral director p.m. on Tuesday, December 8, 2009, in and certified funeral celebrant who has HOLIDAY CATERING the Pontchartrain Center’s Belle grove received bereavement training at the Plantation ballroom, located on Center for Loss and Life Transition in Williams Boulevard at the lake. This is Fort Collins, Colorado. She will speak a free event sponsored by family and on the “gift of memory.” staff of L. A. Muhleisen and Son At the conclusion, participants will Funeral Homes and Millet-guidry be presented with an angel of remem - Funeral Home. brance, taken from a Christmas tree, in “We know that the holidays are not memory of their loved one. Finger Sandwiches Crawfish, Chicken or festive for everyone, especially those To register the name or names of Chicken Tenders Shrimp Fettuccini families who have experienced a recent those you would like to remember or to Wraps Chicken Alfredo Pasta death. Those in attendance will find learn more about this holiday program Shrimp Cocktail Jambalaya this to be a very comforting and mean - call L. A. Muhleisen and Son at 466- Shrimp Remoulade Dessert Trays ingful program that will provide them 8577 or Millet-guidry at 985-536-7700 Cocktail Meatballs And more Call today! with a source of strength and inspira - by Friday, December 4, 2009. Come tion throughout the holiday season,” and enjoy this special program, as well said Louis A. Muhleisen, Jr., a fourth as the warmth of people who care. generation funeral director. Reservations to attend are not required. We will honor, by remembering by L. A. Muhleisen and Son and Millet- name, the deceased loved ones of those guidry are family owned, independent families present. This program, inter - funeral homes with locations in Open 7 Days • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner laced with a delightful array of music, Metairie, Kenner and LaPlace. “We are will serve as a wellspring of comfort, dedicated to providing personal service Hours everyday 6:00 a.m. until 10:00 pm consolation and encouragement,” says and offering programs beyond what Muhleisen. would be expected,” said Muhleisen. H KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 7 H Government Travel safety By STEVE CARAWAY, Kenner Police Chief With the holidays approach - quart-sized, clear zipped-top bag. Airline passengers jostle you, ask you for directions or the time, or dis - ing, many of us will soon be are only allowed to carry on as many of these con - tract you by creating a disturbance, all in an effort to traveling out of town to visit tainers as they can fit into one of these plastic bags. help their partner swindle you. Instead of using a with family and friends. We should all take time to Of course, exceptions do apply for the well being of handbag or fanny pack when carrying money and relax and enjoy ourselves, but we should also plan certain passengers. Medications, baby formula and credit cards, you may consider carrying these valu - ahead to prevent possible complications and mishaps food and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quan - ables in a money belt or shoulder bag with the strap during our trip. Although we cannot always foresee tities exceeding three ounces and are not required to worn across your chest. Also, avoid wearing expen - problems we may encounter along the way, we can be in the zip-top bag. you will need to declare these sive-looking jewelry while in route to and from your take preventative measures in an attempt to ward off items for inspection at the checkpoint. For a complete destination. This may attract thieves. threats of theft or injury. Please sit down with your list of exceptions, check the Transportation Security If your travel plans include staying at a hotel, try to family before departing for holiday trips this season Administration’s website at www.tsa.gov. If in doubt, request hotel rooms anywhere from the second to sev - to discuss these and other safety measures. put your liquids, gels and/or aerosols in your checked enth floors. Staying on these floors ensures that Before you set off on your trip, leave detailed con - luggage. you’re high enough to deter easy entry of an intruder tact and itinerary information with family or friends If you’ll be traveling with gifts, you’re asked to from the outside, but low enough for fire equipment at home in case an emergency should arise and they leave these unwrapped. Security officers may have to to reach should there be a fire. Familiarize yourself need to get in touch with you. Leave your social secu - unwrap gifts if they need to take a closer look at the with the hotel’s safety information, including fire exit rity card and any unnecessary credit cards at home. contents. Consider shipping wrapped gifts ahead of locations. While in your hotel room, keep the door Instead of cash, consider bringing travelers checks time or wait until your destination to wrap them. you locked at all times and insist on meeting unknown and one or two major credit cards with you. Also, it’s can bring pies and cakes through the security check - visitors in the lobby. Also, never leave personal doc - a good idea to make two photocopies of any personal point, but please be aware that these are subject to uments, money or other valuables in your room while identification, airline tickets, driver’s licenses and additional screening. If you plan to bring along a lap - away, unless you secure them in the hotel safe. credit cards you intend to bring along. Leave one top computer, camera with film, undeveloped film, I urge you to take heed of these safety precautions photocopy with family or friends and pack the other lithium batteries or electronic devices, you’ll need to and not to take unnecessary risks while traveling. I, separate from the originals. If any of these items put these with your carry-on baggage. Checked bag - along with the Kenner Police Department, wish you become lost of stolen during your trip, you’ll have a gage screening equipment can damage film and elec - and your loved ones a safe and happy holiday season. record when you make a report. tronic devices. you will be required to remove these If you have any safety concerns that you would like When packing toiletries for a flight, keep in mind items from your carry-on bag and submit them sepa - me to address or any questions, please feel free to that carry-on guidelines stipulate that all liquids, gels rately for x-ray screening. contact me at [email protected] .H and aerosols must be in 3.4 ounce or smaller contain - When traveling on public transportation routes, be ers. Larger containers that are half-full or toothpaste wary of your surroundings. Pickpockets are notorious Chief Caraway can be reached by email at tubes that are rolled up are not allowed in your carry- for targeting travelers in crowded terminals. They [email protected] . Visit the Kenner Police on luggage. Place all of your containers in a single, will often enlist the help of an accomplice who may Department website at www.kennerpd.com . Holiday events in Kenner for whole family this December By MARY-ShARON hOWLANd, Kenner Community Service director The joy of the you there! Mary-Sharon Howland is Kenner’s located at 624 Williams Boulevard. Christmas season The Kenner Planetarium and Community Services Director. The Howland can be reached at 468-7293 or abounds in the Megadome Cinema is presenting two Community Services Department is [email protected]. spirit of Kenner’s holiday movie specials, “Laser Holiday” citizens. I invite and “Tis the Season.” Bring the whole everyone to attend the grand opening of family and experience the beauty of this The disease no Kenner’s Magical Christmas Village on theater. Having a hemorrhoid can one wants to Friday, December 4. The park will open Breakfast with Santa takes place in talk about at 5:30 p.m. and we will greet Santa Rivertown on Saturday, December 12. when he arrives at 6:00 p.m. Holiday Admission to the Children’s Castle as feel a lot like this. You don't have music will fill the air as Mayor Ed well as breakfast is included in the $10 to live with Muniz ceremoniously turns on the holi - admission. Call 468-7231 for a reserva - hemorrhoids day lights at Veterans Park next to City tion or information. anymore Hall. Finally, I want to express my deepest The Christmas Village will be open on gratitude on behalf of the Kenner Food Non-surgical Friday and Saturday nights from 5:30 Bank to the KPBA, Councilman Ben and painless p.m. to 8:30 p.m. through December 19. Zahn, Kenner Central Lions, Aparacio, treatment of Food will be served by area non-profit Walker and Seeling, Inc. and BFM hemorrhoids in two minutes organizations, so come hungry and enjoy Corporation for sponsoring the gumbo, hamburgers, jambalaya, hot November food drive. The dedication of Living with it when you chocolate and more. Photo opportunities the Local 4342 letter carriers and the don’t have to, feels worse with Santa will be available and local generosity of the citizens of Kenner school groups will perform nightly for made this drive a huge success. This your entertainment. The Bonnabel dance year’s drive netted eight tons of food team, the Debby Dillehay dance troupe, over a three day period. If you would • Gold Standard Dr. Wagih Mando, FACS • Office Procedure Schneckenburger School and the John like to assist the Kenner Food Bank, Certified by American Board of Surgery • No Anesthesia Quincy Adams concert wind band are your help is still needed. Donations are • Highly Effective Over 20 years in practice • Covered by most just a few of the groups that will light up accepted at 315 Wirth Street. 200 W. Esplanade Ave., Suite 410, OMC-Kennheera Olthff iicnes Buruailndcieng the village stage. There is no charge for If I can answer any questions or be of Tel. 504-464-8619 plans parking or admission and I hope to see assistance, please call me at 468-7293. H www.DrMando.com • email: [email protected] 8 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R

Katz (continued from page 5) formula by getting the City Council to isn’t quite ready to do yet what the mayor ment, who can fine the city if not in com - they say. Muniz says the waste is gone, approve putting a referendum on the says needs to be done. But the citizens pliance, into financial ruin? the budget has been cut to the bone, so March 27, 2010 ballot that asks the vot - who have a stake in the future of the city My guess is that the mayor is hopeful far every city expenditure has been scru - ers to choose to add 5.5 mills to their and who care about their property values that at some point soon there will be tinized and cost savings have been real - property taxes. He wants to get the coun - have been listening to the mayor and are enough of a consensus that a coalition of ized without service cutbacks and cil to approve a sewerage surcharge cost - considering where they’re going to stand Kenner leaders and council members employee layoffs. But, Muniz said, if the ing most property owners about $3 a on this important issue. Will property will decide to stand up and advocate for community doesn’t tell the council that month which will pay for long-delayed owners be all right with seeing a small the mayor’s proposed additional 5.5 mill - they must act now to on his proposals, urgent repairs to the sewerage system. increase on property taxes which will age increase on property taxes, the mill - then the city will have a hard time paying Muniz also is proposing the City Council mostly go to the city’s police and fire age reinstatement and the sewerage sur - to update its failing sewage system and members unite to reinstate the 1.4 mill in departments with a small portion going charge. service cutbacks and employee layoffs property taxes that were rolled back. to the general fund? Will Kenner citizens Of course, Mayor Muniz hasn’t said will be virtually inevitable. And soon. The millage increase will have to get realize these moves will prevent city yet whether he’s going to run for reelec - Stay tuned to this story. It’s important. the approval of the council before voters services from being cut and prevent tion in 2010. Does he want a second will see it on the ballot and the sewerage employees from being laid off? Will citi - four-year term in the light of the troubles Kenner Food Bank drive surcharge and millage reinstatement zens accept a minimal surcharge to help that he perceives? Here’s another of my another success must pass by a vote of the council. Based overhaul the outdated sewerage system guesses – I think the response of the City on what I’m hearing, the City Council in trouble with the state’s DEQ depart - Council and civic and business leaders – Many thanks to the citizens who gave whatever it may be – will help Muniz over eight tons of food in this year’s food make up his mind. If his health continues drive for the Kenner Food Bank in a year to be good and if he gets the kind of where donations are especially needed. backing that he thinks is necessary, Thanks are extended as well to the 24-HOUR ELECTRICAL SERVICEy s 7 Da Muniz will probably run for reelection. donors of the food bag, the Kenner eek A W Still, even if he’s right about all of this, Professional Business Association, BELLCO ELECTRIC and if he wins reelection, the next four Kenner District 3 Councilman Ben Zahn, Residential • Commercial years aren’t likely to be much fun in Kenner Central Lions Club, Aparicio, • A/C Circuits • Vacancy Permits Kenner for government leaders and for Walker and Seeling, Inc. and BFM • Troubleshooting • Attic Ventilators citizens. There will be a lot of cutting Corporation, which facilitated collection • Remodeling • Bidwork Welcome back in government and on the private by the letter carriers. The Local 4342 • Additions • Service Upgrades side as well. City services to residents Branch of the National Association of • New Construction • Home Repairs • Same Day Service • Security Lighting will have to be reduced. That never Letter Carriers, your local postmen, We install Over makes for happy citizens. deserve a big round of applause for vol - Automatic Standby 30 Years Of course, there are those who think unteering their time and hard work to GENERATORS Experience Muniz is wrong on all counts. There are collect the donated food over the three 455-2355 some who say that there are cuts that can days. Their efforts caused the food bank NO JOB TOO SMALL - WE DO ALL! be made in the costs of government that to be stocked during the holiday

L will cure everything. get rid of the waste, season. H

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2 through December 19,” she said. Christmas Village is located in 8

6 “Christmas Village is open on Fridays Veterans Park, next to Kenner City 1 3 and Saturdays at 5:30 p.m. The place is Hall. just filled with Christmas cheer and “There’s plenty of parking, a lot of Santa Claus looks great, sounds great food vendors and performances by and is making sure that all the children local groups that will give just the lift have a wonderful time. Christmas that we all need to have a great holiday Village is a family event and we love to season,” said Howland. “Many families see family groups that include grand - visit Christmas Village more than once parents, parents and children.” just because it’s so much fun.” H Food bank (continued from page 1) Lions Club, Aparicio, Walker and the food bank with an adequate supply Seeling, Inc. and BFM Corporation, of food for all those who can’t afford to who paid the costs of the donation go shopping is constant and ongoing.” bags. She said that as the economy has Howland said the food collected in struggled, more breadwinners in the drive will feed hundreds of hungry Kenner have lost their jobs and turned Kenner families until Christmas. But, to the food bank for help. Equally then, she said, it will be gone. “Eight caught up in the recession, she said, are tons sounds like an incredible amount single mothers and senior citizens, both of food and it is,” said Howland. “But of whom often find their meager what is even more amazing is that in incomes needed to cover the costs of Kenner, a community of less than shelter, clothing and medicine. “I can’t 80,000, we have so many hundreds of emphasize enough how grateful all of needy families, often including small us in city government and the food children, that eight tons of food will bank are for the generosity of Kenner have been given out and consumed in residents,” said Howland. “I wish that I less that eight weeks time. It gives you could tell you that the battle has been an idea of the need and also why we’ll won, but, in fact, it’s a continuing be asking for further donations in a struggle that could go on for quite a very short time. The struggle to provide while.” H KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 9 H Community Kenner resident plans Christmas show featuring 60,000 lights and talking snowmen By ALLAN KATZ Kenner residents Steve and Konnie Boudreaux and Marie. An added feature visit. “We love Christmas and we love 60,000 lights – which dance to the Higginbottom love to put on a of the snowmen is that when walked up the joy of the season. It’s a special thing music – and the Boudreaux and Marie Christmas show and this year’s spectac - to, Boudreaux and Marie speak. To add in our lives and we love sharing the joy, snowmen. ular will be their biggest ever. to the magic, Santa was on hand to especially with little kids. In a way, I “While we get special joy from creat - The Higginbottoms, who reside at place magic hats on Boudreaux and guess we see Christmas through their ing a spectacle for kids, it also means a 4032 Lake Trail Drive near Vintage Marie that gave them the ability to eyes, even though we’re grandparents.” lot to us when senior citizens come out Drive, have for several years put dis - speak. The Higginbottoms say their neigh - to see our display,” says Higginbottom. plays of Christmas lights on their lawn. ”Our children are grown and our bors on Lake Trail Drive have been “We’d like to think that we are helping But this year, on November 27, at 7:00 grandchildren have just moved back cooperative and encouraging. “All our them return to a time when they had p.m., they hit the switch and more than here, but I’ve been working on this neighbors ask is that you not park in Christmas with their young children.” 60,000 lights came on. For many, how - because of the kick it gives me when a their driveways,” said Steve The Higginbottoms turn off the music ever, the real big treat is that Steve seven or eight-year-old touches Higginbottom. “That definitely causes a and the display promptly at 10:30 p.m. Higginbottom, who is in the air condi - Boudreaux or Marie and they speak to problem.” The Higginbottom’s show every evening out of courtesy for his tioning business, has used his expertise him,” says Higginbottom who also features Christmas music with 14 dif - neighbors. The display runs until to create two snowmen named gives out free candy canes to all who ferent songs as well as the more than January 1. H H Fitness Avoid holiday weight gain – Trim the turkey fat By YVETTE dUSSOUY It’s holiday table and enjoy each bite of your little Stick to your rules this holiday season awarded Pacesetter Elite status by time! That means indulgence. and you won’t have to use your same old Jazzercise, Inc. for the past ten years. family gatherings, Shop ‘til you drop. It’s seemingly new year’s resolution. H Dussouy can be reached at 464-4600 or football games, impossible to walk through the mall [email protected]. The Kenner Jazzercise and hours logged at the dining room table without a half-dozen fattening foods call - Yvette Dussouy, for over 15 years has Center has classes early morning, morn - eating. ing your name. Sidestep these landmines owned and operated the Kenner ing, afternoon, evenings and weekends – The average Thanksgiving dinner by shopping early in the morning, when Jazzercise Fitness Center, which has some include childcare. This class sched - packs a whopping 3,000 calories. It fast food fries are less appealing. When recently moved to a new location, 4228 ule includes classes for the overweight would take almost five hours of jogging you check-off the items on your holiday Williams Boulevard. A certified instruc - through the very fit. For the complete to burn-off all those calories! And that’s list, reward yourself with a pedicure or a tor for over 18 years, Dussouy has been schedule visit www.jazzercise.com. just the start! The real problem is that the chair massage instead of a cinnamon roll. mashed potatoes, gravy and pecan pie Take the stairs, two at a time. you’ve served at Thanksgiving are just the heard it before. Whenever possible, take beginning of a long season of temptation. the stairs instead of the elevator to burn- As you rush Carohunrdi wsitthm thae s Here are a few suggestions for keeping off a few more calories. This holiday sea - business of the season, your weight in check during the holiday son step-up your stair practice with a lit - Please remember it’s all about Jesus season. Take a look at the tips and see if tle more vigor. Take stairs two at a time. his birth, his love, his free gift of you can incorporate one or two of them you’ll use a different part of your leg forgiveness, salvation and eternal life. into your daily routine. muscles and you’ll reach your destina - May you always remember, christ is the reason for christmas The early bird catches the worm . tion a little faster. According to a study at the Mollen Maximize your time. If you’re too Clinic, 75 percent of people who exercise busy during the holidays to attend a fit - Merry Christmas in the morning hours stick to their regu - ness class, then use your morning com - om lar regimen, whereas only 50 percent of mute or your lunch hour. Park far away afternoon exercisers and 25 percent of and walk the rest of the way to work. Hair StyleUs nlimited evening exercisers do the same. During Talk your office pals into a lunchtime 464-5949 • 3635 Florida Ave. the busy holiday months, try working out power walk. Infuse 10-minute chunks of www.hairstylesunlimitedinc.com • Thinning hair experts since 1977 first thing in the morning. No matter exercise throughout your day, attempting Specializing in hair restoration, extensions and alternative hair. what else happens in your day, it won’t to reach a total of 30 to 60 minutes each interfere with your fitness regimen. day. Plan ahead. There’s nothing worse Set workplace rules. your co-worker Wills Trusts than setting aside time for your workout, brings in a platter of fudge. your boss only to realize that you’ve forgotten your orders donuts for the entire office. How Successions sneakers when you arrive at class. So, can you possibly avoid the temptation of prepare your next day’s workout bag office binges when they’re around you Business Law before going to bed each night. Pack from Halloween through Thanksgiving Personal Injury your sneakers, sports bra and whatever and into Christmas? Try the five-minute else you possibly need, so that you’re not rule. Decide that you can have a little Over 30 years experience rushing around in the morning. taste of the sweet treats in the office Indulge just a little . As your stress break room after waiting for five min - MLF level increases with party planning, utes. Chances are that your craving will shopping and family gatherings, don’t be gone by the time five minutes passes Melchers Law Firm deny yourself all things sweet. you’ll or maybe the treats will be gone! only end up binging later on. Instead, Last but not least. Refuse to wear 909 West Esplanade Ave., Suite 206, Kenner, LA 70065 measure out a reasonable portion of the your comfortable clothes. you know, the (504) 467-1092 foods that you regularly crave. Sit at your ones with the expandable waist! www.melcherslawfirm.com James L. Melchers, Attorney-At-Law 10 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R

H Automotive Take the gas-saving quiz By SCOTT ZIMMERMAN How much do jackrabbit starts do not affect fuel A. False. Approximately 17 percent choke off the air and create a “rich” you know about economy. of vehicles on the road have loose, mixture that wastes gas and causes the getting the best A. False. Aggressive driving and damaged or missing gas caps, causing engine to lose power. Replacing a gas mileage? rapid acceleration can reduce gas 147 million gallons of gas to vaporize clogged air filter can improve gas The following true or false quiz is a mileage as much as 33 percent on the every year. mileage by as much as 10 percent. The reminder to all motorists that the num - highway and five percent on city Q. Extra weight in the car causes air filter should be inspected at each ber of miles per gallon a car gets is streets. When a vehicle is left idling it an increase in gas usage. oil change. H directly related to driving behavior wastes gas and gets zero miles per gal - A. True. Items that are not needed and vehicle maintenance. lon. weigh down a vehicle, causing an Scott Zimmerman is the owner of Q. Properly inflated tires improve Q. Speeding has little effect on gas increase in gas usage and unnecessary Scotty’s Tire and Automotive, Inc., a gas mileage. mileage. wear and tear on the car. get the stuff family-owned and operated full-serv - A. True. When tires are not properly A. False. In speeds above 60 miles out of the car and trunk but remember ice tire and automotive shop, located inflated, fuel costs can be as much as per hour gas mileage usually decreas - to keep important emergency items, at 4200 Williams Boulevard in three to five cents higher per gallon. es rapidly. For maximum fuel econo - such as a spare tire, flares and a first- Kenner. Store hours are 7:30 a.m.- Tire pressure should be checked at my stay below 60 miles per hour. aid kit. 5:00 p.m. on Monday through Friday. least monthly, including the spare. Q. It’s no big deal if the gas cap In addition, air filters can become Scotty’s website is www.scottystireau - Q. Aggressive driving and gets lost or cracked. clogged with dirt, dust or bugs, which to.com . 2010 Chevy Camaro is a winner By dOUg TURNER It was 1965 from a business trip to Jackson and as screamer! It could peel rubber for a controls including the premium Boston and I was 16 he walked in the door he threw a set of half a block and was the fastest set of nine-speaker, 245 watt audio system years old living keys to me and said, “Check out what’s wheels I had ever driven, and being 16 with XM radio. Speed and sound – two on the coast in under the carport.” There sat a brand you know what I did. yeah, I raced it of my favorites! Biloxi. My dad new 1965 Mustang 2+2, red, with the every chance I got and shut down the As you would expect, Chevy offers had returned just introduced 289-V-8. It was a competition. That’s when it started – all the new technology with this baby, my love of speed and in general, cars. including Bluetooth, uSB connectors, Today Chevy has revamped the 2010 “six” airbags and of course Onstar, plus Camaro so I’ve decided to compare navigation. this new muscle car to the one that Bottom line is if you compare the started it all. Camaro “SS,” at a manufacturer’s sug - Thanks to the help of our local gested retail price at $30,700, with the Chevrolet dealer I was able to drive the other two American-made sports cars 2010 “SS” Camaro model which was in a similar class, the Chevy delivers a equipped with a six-speed manual vehicle that is very competitive and a transmission. While walking up to the blast to drive. car I was impressed with the look of The new 2010 Chevy Camaro the car with its wide stance and the brought back nostalgic memories of design of the rear quarter panel and times past and what fun I had in ’65. H long hood. As I inserted the key into the 6.2/378 V8 engine, the 426 horses Doug Turner is president of Deal’n came to life and I was ready to roll. Off Doug’s Autoplex, which stocks all types the line she felt powerful and respon - of vehicles, cars, trucks, SUVs and sive and as I shifted into second I knew vans priced from $5,000 to $25,000, this car was special. As I entered the located at 6900 Veterans Boulevard in first curve, the four-wheel independent Metairie. Turner, in the automobile suspension stuck to the road and with business for over 30 years and an the variable-rate power steering had a eleven year member of the Better good feel and I felt in control. Make no Business Bureau, was recently appoint - mistake, I wasn’t driving a Porsche ed by Governor Bobby Jindal to the Carrera, but for one-half the price I was board of the Louisiana Used Vehicle impressed. Commission, which licenses and over - The interior of the Camaro is well- sees the used vehicle industry in equipped. The full set of gauges Louisiana. Turner can be reached at mounted under the dash looks very 887-3131 or online at retro and there is easy access to all the [email protected].

SAY YOU SAW IT IN THE KENNER ST H R KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 11

H Community State Representative Tony Ligi blasts U.S. Corps of Engineers for flawed Kenner levee, demands to know who is responsible By ALLAN KATZ State Representative Tony Ligi, R- yards of the levee Herr, Army Corps of Engineers Section did not occur under his watch. I believe a Metairie, is furious over failures by the will be removed Chief, seems very capable and under - full public explanation will be out short - u.S. Army Corps of Engineers to proper - and replaced with stands the effect of this incident, which ly.” H ly maintain a Kenner levee. Even worse, new clay. he says, is the continued failure of the Representative Corps to recognize the effects such inci - Ligi says doing Madison/Avery Jewelry • Fleur de Lis Gifts • Baby Gifts • Circle E Candles dents have on the confidence in protec - the work over is Coupon not valid with sale items tion being provided. certainly the right “I can’t begin to tell you how angry I thing to do, but he am over this,” said Ligi, whose district says that u.S. includes much of north Kenner. “Isn’t Senators Mary State Representative anyone accountable for their work any - Landrieu, D-La. Tony Ligi OFF OFF more? Who signed off on this work that and David Vitter, $ a purchase $ a purchase could have endangered the entire East R-La. and u.S. Representative Steve of $25 of $50 Bank of Jefferson Parish if the condition Scalise, R-La. should not rest until it is had not been caught?” he asked. known why the Corps did not comply In a written demand letter dated with its on standards and what Corps offi - 5 10 November 17, 2009 faxed to the Corps, cial declared the work acceptable.

Ligi asked for the following information “If there is any lesson that Hurricane Present at time of purchase Does not apply to any to be made public immediately: Katrina taught us, it is that we must be Limit one per customer consignment gifts. Expires 12/24/09 The identity of the contractor or con - diligent about the condition of our lev - tractors who did the work on Reach 2, ees,” said Representative Ligi. “The toll 701 W. Esplanade, Suite B, Kenner • 469-4118 which is the levee section that runs that an unsound levee can have on a com - munity is well known to all of us. I ask between the Duncan and Elmwood pump Unique Gifts • Free Gift Wrapping • Saints & LSU Gifts • Wall Paintings stations . my constituents in District 79 to write and call on Senator Landrieu, Senator Vitter The names of all corps employees who and Representative Scalise. The Corps supervised or inspected the work. and its responsible personnel must pro - vide answers as to why this could happen A complete explanation of the process so that we can feel comfortable that it will used by the corps to accept the work. not happen again. The problem in the past FIND US IN THE MALL!!! is that too many of us were passive and The Esplanade mall’s best kept hidden secret! Whether any action will be taken accepting of inadequate levees. But there against corps employees or the contrac - is no excuse today for accepting substan - The Frame Shoppe tor. dard work. It would be a shame if we, as Esplanade Mall • 464-4662 The controversy swirls around the community leaders, allow this travesty to be summarily pushed aside.” Kenner levee between the Duncan Canal Celebrating 25 years! pumping station and Williams Boulevard. At its November 19, 2009 meeting, the CHRISTMAS GIFTS! Kenner City Council adopted a resolution Prints, posters, A contractor hired to do new work on the custom framing, levee found so much construction debris that supports Representative Ligi’s action. % During a follow up email sent on pre-framed art, buried in the top two to 2.5 feet of the OFF anything in the store expires 12/31/09 levee that about 5,000 to 7,000 cubic November 24, 2009, Ligi said, “Brett 25 Highway Park civic association looking for more members Dianne garrett, president of Kenner’s interest in creating this group, which like Highway Park North civic association, is many others in my district and the city, are inviting new neighborhood members to coming together and unifying. I believe join its group. garrett said the civic associ - when citizens get involved in their neigh - ation was formed in order to make the borhoods it will produce protection, beau - neighborhood a safer and stronger place to tification and fellowship – all good live. “At our meetings we have had Mayor effects.” Muniz, District 3 Councilman Ben Zahn Membership dues are $25 per year said and Kenner Police Chief Steve Caraway garrett. “Even if you can’t attend the speak to us on different topics such as safe - meetings, your dues will help us continue ty, beautification and budget concerns for to grow as a neighborhood and your name the city of Kenner. They have all been very will be included in the membership roster. supportive of our new organization. We We are still in the organizational stages are trying to sign up as many members as and would really like more households to we can to make this association as strong become interested and to come see what as possible. With less than 250 homes in we are doing.” The next meeting is our area we are one of the smaller neigh - December 1, 2009, at 6:30 p.m. Chief borhoods as most have between 500 and Caraway and Officer guggenheim will 1200 households,” said garrett. help the association get started with a Ben Zahn, Kenner’s District 3 Neighborhood Watch Program. Councilman for that area, said, “I am truly For more information call Dianne excited that the president, the board and georgy garrett at 214-2694 or email dgar - the neighborhood have shown such a great [email protected] .H 12 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R

H Home Many wood flooring choices By dAN dORMAdY The richness of expensive but the job will take much density base with a very thin wood Solid or engineered hardwood floors wood flooring can longer because of site sanding, staining veneer which are cheaper than the other do tend to dent and scratch more than add elegance to and finishing. In new home construc - types but still more expensive than lam - laminate floors. On the plus side, tradi - any room. However, trying to figure out tion all other trades must be finished inate. you get what you pay for, and tional hardwood and most engineered what type of wood flooring to use can their work, allowing enough time to these cheaper versions are less durable flooring can be refinished. A well-main - be confusing with so many types complete the job so the finishes can than other engineered wood. tained hardwood floor can last a life - offered. Solid wood, engineered wood, cure properly. If you have less time Laminate wood flooring is melamine- time, engineered hardwood floors last or wood laminate? First, consider some there are a variety of prefinished hard - infused paper on top with a wood chip between 40 and 80 years while a lami - basic facts including the cost, durabili - woods available in many price points. composite, called MDF on the bottom. nate floor is estimated to last up to 20 ty, the volume of traffic and the poten - Engineered wood is made by attach - Not exactly what you would call real years. tial for moisture problems before decid - ing a layer of hardwood to a softwood wood. It is a man-made material that ultimately, you must consider your ing. you need to think about what this base, often with a plywood bottom. has the appearance of wood, but is real - budget and long-term needs when investment means to your home’s unlike with solid wood boards, you’re ly plastic. The finish is like a Formica deciding between these popular floor - value. High end luxury home buyers not getting pure hardwood. This isn’t countertop, but it is more durable and ing choices. Hardwood costs more to will prefer solid wood floors over lami - necessarily a bad thing, however, thicker. Laminate floors are impact, purchase and install, but lasts longer nate flooring. because the plywood base improves scratch, sunlight fade and stain resist - and offers greater resale value to a Solid wood boards are cut from trees moisture resistance and stability. The ant. The finish never needs to be waxed home. Laminate is cheaper, easier to as a solid piece of wood that come in hardwood layer on the top is made from or refinished. Laminate flooring comes install and provides considerable dura - random lengths with tongue-and- three to nine wood plies glued and lam - in various thicknesses from six millime - bility. Look for a flooring product that groove edges for nailing or gluing. The inated together. Plank thicknesses vary ters to 12 millimeters. The thicker the offers a warranty that is at least 15 cost varies depending on wood species. from 3/8 inches to about 9/16 inches material the longer it will last and the years. Be sure to follow the installation Before installing wood on concrete and widths vary from 2-1/4 inches to more it will simulate real solid wood instructions. Wood needs to be accli - foundations a moisture test needs to be about seven inches. Be sure that the floors, not just in appearance but also in mated 72 hours in the house before performed. The concrete slab must be veneer layer is equal to or less than the sound when walking on it. installing. Check the warranty to see flat and level and free of grease, oil, plywood base to prevent cupping and Installation is do-it-yourself friendly what it actually covers and what you stains and dust. It is important that a crowning issues. as most laminate floors are glue-less have to do to use the warranty to fix moisture barrier and plywood subfloor Engineered wood boards come pre- floating “click” types. The flooring can potential flooring problems. H be used to protect the hardwood from finished and can be laid floating, glued, be installed over a level floor without moisture damage. Then the hardwood is stapled or nailed down in all grade lev - removing old flooring. Laminate floor - nailed to the plywood. Some manufac - els. They usually come with tongue- ing can be used in most areas of the Dan Dormady, P.E. is a licensed pro - tures have recommended a and-grove edges that are fitted together home even in wet areas. Excessive fessional engineer and licensed home polyurethane moisture barrier and glue like puzzle pieces as you lay them. you moisture can damage laminate just like inspector and the president of that can be used directly on concrete. glue along the edge of the board that’s solid and engineered wood. Criterium-Dormady Engineers, a local - Check with your installer to see which already down then ease the other board Laminate flooring is cheaper than ly owned consulting engineering firm application is best for your flooring. into place along the side of it. Some of hardwood. Because laminate is an specializing in residential and commer - Solid wood boards often come unfin - today’s engineered boards also have image of wood, to some people the aes - cial building inspection services. ished or prefinished with plank widths edges that click together, much like thetic value is less than that of real Dormady can be reached at 456-6999, varying from 2-1/4 inches to about 12 laminate flooring, and don’t require wood. With real wood, there are P.O. Box 113565 Metairie, LA 70011- inches and plank thickness varying glue. tremendous variations in the wood 3565, or at [email protected]. from 7/17 inches to about ¾ inches. There is more than one kind of engi - grain, whereas the same pattern is Criterium-Dormady Engineers’ website unfinished wood is generally less neered wood. Some types have a high- repeated in a laminate floor. is www.criterium-dormady.com. H Community Kenner Code Enforcement Department sweeps appear to be working In October 2009, Kenner Code area of four-unit apartment buildings. area and the 4100, 4200 and 4300 this area keeps the violations down and Enforcement Department performed a The 3500, 3600, 3900 and 4100 blocks blocks of Florida Avenue in the I’m happy to see that. With the reduc - code violations sweep of a seven block of Delaware Avenue in the greenlawn Beachview area were inspected by the tion in violations it appears the sweeps enforcement officers. are working by making violators take Rates As DEAL N DOUG’S Collectively, 68 violations were care of their properties the way they are Low As issued with 30 violations for electrical supposed to.” % Autoplex 3.99 6900 Veterans Blvd., Metairie “I’m Dealin” issues. The largest number of violations Zahn said action by the Kenner City was issued for missing light fixture cov - Council and Mayor Muniz to enlarge ers and fixtures hanging from buildings. the Kenner’s Code Enforcement Kenner District 3 Councilman Ben Department have definitely made an Zahn, who represents the area, said the impact on those who ignore the codes number of violations were low for such of the city of Kenner. “Our determina - 887- 3131 a large area when compared to other tion on ridding Kenner of blight has HUGE CHOPPER SALE sweeps, such as a recent Martinique been taken seriously by absentee land - the chopper man is chopping prices all month long Avenue sweep which produced 65 vio - lords and those who have arrogantly Save big on cars, trucks, SUVʼs and vans lations in only a two-block area. Zahn abused the system in the past. I think Great selection of “Highline Vehicles” priced from said, “I’m pleased the violations are low they are getting the message that I $499000 to $25,99000 11 Year when we address problem apartment despise blight and will not tolerate it FREE “Shop us or you’ll pay too much for your next vehicle!!” Member complexes like these. I believe the con - and the city will enforce its laws to 1 Year sistent effort of the code inspector for improve the quality of life for all.” H CHEC Warranty K US www.dealndougs.com OUT O NLINE KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 13

H Business Tokyo Hibachi Sushi offers fine dining, Asian delicacies on Williams Boulevard By ALLAN KATZ If your taste buds are craving for fresh sushi or delicious hibachi and you are wondering where to go, there is now a restaurant in the neighborhood to satisfy your cravings. Tokyo Hibachi Sushi Restaurant and Bar at 3525 Williams Boulevard, located at the site of the for - mer TeCoRo’s Restaurant, offers a wide variety of delicious sushi, sashimi, tem - pura, teriyaki and hibachi. The prices are right, with lunch starting at $7.95 and dinner starting at $16.95. On the hibachi side, chicken, steak, filet mignon, shrimp, scallops, salmon filet or lobster is freshly prepared and very spacious with uniquely designed cooked in front of your very own eyes. hibachi tables and sushi on one side and Each entrée is served with a tasty clear a dining room with a full bar on the other soup, a fresh garden salad with ginger side. Each pair of hibachi tables can join dressing, fried rice and vegetables. you together to host up to 18 people. The din - can also order either single items or com - ing room has a capacity of up to 50 and binations. While preparing your meal, is available for special events such as your chef entertains you and your party birthday parties or company functions. with a very entertaining cooking show. Charles Lin, the host, said the restau - Kid’s menus are available. rant offers suggestions for people who If you like sushi, the chef’s specialties are in a hurry for lunch, which is served are very popular. The “Volcano Roll,” every day, including weekends. To save snow crab roll deep fried with spicy tuna, time, call ahead and order lunch, order snow crab meat and masago on top, is take out or take advantage of their deliv - served with the chef’s special mengo ery service. sauce. The “Angry Dragon Roll” is made Catering is available, said Lin, and for with soft shell crab tempura, snow crab, the sports fan he suggests coming to avocado wrapped with tuna, and has cheer on the Saints while watching sev - salmon and yellow tail on top. It is served eral television sets overlooking the bar, with the chef’s sweet and spicy sauce. the sushi bar and the floor of the restau - Tokyo Hibachi Sushi Restaurant and rant, while enjoying specialty exotic Bar has been completely renovated and is drinks. Lin said, “The restaurant has been open for almost two months and we already have a very good repeat customer base. We love this location and the neigh - borhood and hopefully we can be here for a long time and offer Kenner a great place for excellent dining and entertain - ment. Tokyo Hibachi is open for lunch every day from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Dinner is served on weekdays and Sundays from 4:30 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 4:30 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. The phone number is 464-8989. H

Look for the Kenner Parks & Recreation Department Winter/Spring 2010 Brochure In your January 2010 Kenner Star 14 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R H Real Estate Owning a home has its benefits By LINdA R. MARTIN Opportunity is isfaction with your living environment. knocking for those Financial predictability The Ice House considering home - When you buy a home with a fixed- ownership for the first time. Historically rate mortgage, you have more pre - 2151 WILLIAMS BLVD. (RIGHT BEHIND CAR WASH) low interest rates, lower home prices in dictability over future housing costs. 469-3503 Monday - Thursday – 7 am - 6 pm • Friday and Saturday – 7 am - 7 pm most markets and the first-time home - Because your interest rate never Sunday – 8 am - 5 pm buyer tax credit – part of the American changes, the amount of your payment Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 never changes. Financial planning and Please accept our appreciation and sincere thanks for letting us serve you. – brought first-timers to the market in credit are more easily managed with a Sometimes in the rush of business life, OP droves during the first half of the year. fixed-rate mortgage compared to rent - EN we fail to say thanks loud enough to hear. T In fact, these consumers represented ing. NO IL But you can be sure your patronage is CH O about half of home sales logged during Building equity RI N never taken for granted. STM much of 2009’s first two quarters, When you own your own home, you D A Our aim is to please and satisfy you. AY S according to the National Association of pay rent to yourself instead of a land - TO ALL OUR VALUED CUSTOMERS Realtors, a significant increase from his - lord. Most homeowners pay for their FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS, toric levels. And the favorable condi - purchase by obtaining a mortgage. As Merry Christmas and Happy New Year tions that prompted many of these buy - you pay off that mortgage, your equity ers are likely to continue. Even the first- builds and you gain an increasingly THE RICCA FAMILY time homebuyer tax credit of up to larger share in a valuable asset. Over $8,000 – which was set to expire time, that asset can work for you in December 1 – got a second wind in early many ways, such as home equity lines of November as Congress passed legisla - credit. And of course, a home is a won - tion to extend the deadline for closing derful asset to pass along in an estate. on a home to June 30, 2010. Congress Investment appreciation even added a tax credit of up to $6,500 There are certainly no guarantees of for purchasers that have been home property value appreciation. In the long- owners for the last five years and want term, however, real estate valuations to move up. almost always increase. This means that Today’s opportunities aside, here are when you decide to sell your home, its eight time-honored reasons why those value may be significantly higher than considering homeownership for the first when you purchased it. The difference in time should make their move. value is called appreciation. You can Pride of ownership reinvest that appreciation in other real Owning your own home adds to your estate or you may wish to downsize and own sense of self-esteem and personal keep the value of that appreciation for pride. The satisfaction that comes from retirement or other purposes. feeling connected to the land you occu - Tax benefits py and the home in which you live is In the United States, the cost of home ages-old. mortgage interest and property taxes are Security of tenancy usually tax-deductible. Depending on With homeownership comes stability. your circumstances, thousands of dol - When renting, you never know when you lars in taxes can be saved each year. may have to move because of new own - These tax savings are not limited to fed - ership, rent increases or other changes. eral taxes either. Many states and local - As a homeowner, you decide when and if ities either base their tax system on the you want to move. federal system or offer similar incen - Privacy tives to homeownership. Some addition - While there are usually some limits on al benefits are designed specifically for the access landlords have to property, first-time homebuyers. See your tax almost all landlords can access your advisor for additional information. property for necessary inspections and If you still have doubts, contact a real maintenance. For many renters, this estate professional in your community. lack of privacy is a significant discom - He or she can answer questions you may fort. Homeowners, on the other hand, have about homeownership and explain generally have much stronger property the buying process to you. H rights and experience an increase in perceived and actual privacy. Linda R. Martin, who is licensed in Decorating Louisiana, can be reached at 443-6464 Homeowners are free to decorate, or at her office located at 4140 Williams remodel and accessorize a home any Boulevard in Kenner, LA, USA. 4041 Williams Blvd, A-9 way they want. Not only do you have the Prudential Gardner Realtors is an inde - $ OFF SHIPPING KENNER, LA 70065 1when you ship 1 package right to make improvements, but the pendently owned and operated member $ OFF SHIPPING value of those improvements becomes of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., Visit our Website @ 2when you ship 2 packages $ OFF SHIPPING yours as well. Having your living space a Prudential Financial company. Visit theupsstorelocal.com/2976 3when you ship 3 packages and exteriors just the way you want the Prudential website at www.pruden - Ph 504.443.2115 them can significantly increase your sat - tialgardner.com . Fx 504.443.1022 KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 15 H Law Home sweet home By JAMES L. MELChERS The largest remarriage of the surviving spouse or out by the court. James L. Melchers is the senior asset of most death, whichever occurs first. In conclusion, everyone needs to attorney at Melchers Law Firm, locat - estates is the When there are multiple marriages, a decide what will happen to the home ed at 909 West Esplanade Avenue in home, and it is important to decide couple really needs to discuss their before the first spouse passes and for - Kenner and the firm’s primary areas of who will get the house. Our lives are various options, come to some agree - malize their decision in their will. It is practice are estate planning, wills, more complicated than in past times ment about the house in particular and important to have well seasoned pro - trusts, successions, corporate law, and due in part to multiple marriages and formalize that in their wills. Questions fessionals prepare your documents to personal injury. Melchers can be blended families. Lawsuits frequently to consider are: Who really owns the avoid language that is open to interpre - reached at 467-1092 or visit the web - arise over the ownership of the family house? Do both parties own it or did tation. H site at www.melcherslawfirm.com . home. Will the stepparent get it, will one move into the other one’s home? Melchers Law Firm is open one the stepparent be kicked out, will the Were some of the children raised in Saturday morning each month. children of the deceased spouse get it, this house? Is there a mortgage on the will there be a battle between his chil - house? Do you want your current dren, her children or their children? spouse to stay in the house for life, HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Another home issue arises when one until going into a nursing home, or Saturday, Dec. 12 • 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. • 15% to 40% off

child either takes care of an elderly upon remarriage? Do you want to pre - • everything in the spa

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parent or is less successful in life and serve some ownership for the chil - I C U R needs a place to live after the death of dren? Answering these questions will E • Door Prizes S

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wishes of the deceased are carried out. not want to leave the house in full E R V I C

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A Open Tuesday through Friday 10 - 7, Saturday 9 - 4 T E Visit us at www.georgyssalonspa.com on the age of the children, you can give or remarriage, whichever occurs first. S full ownership to another, you can uti - If the situation warrants the language, lize the numerous variations of the this provision can be broadened to usufruct or you can give another the include termination of the usufruct if right of use and habitation. the surviving spouse lives with or John and Mary have three adult chil - maintains a common household with a dren, none of whom are permanently member of the opposite sex in the disabled. All assets are community sense that there is continuing relation - property inclusive of the home. They ship similar to that of husband and have been married only once. In their wife even though such persons are not wills, they can give each other the legally married. Wills can also provide house in full ownership. The children that the usufruct of the surviving Holiday Catering Entrées will have no ownership in the home. spouse shall terminate five, ten and fif - Let Messina’s handle all of your holiday catering needs! This makes it much easier for the sur - teen years after the death of the viving spouse to do whatever is neces - deceased spouse. Serves 10-12 Serves 20-25 sary for him or herself. They may need Another option is utilization of the Half pan Whole pan to sell the home to have the money for “Right of use and Habitation” which a nursing home, etc. is not ownership but is the right to Creamed Spinach $45 $70 Furthermore, they can also have a reside in the home. Husband and wife Corn Bread Dressing$35$65 secondary provision in the will, that if can give each the right of use and habi - Oyster Dressing$55$85 they are the last spouse to die, the chil - tation in the family home in which dren will get the house, in equal por - they are living at the time of death, Sweet Potato Casserole $45 $70 tions, in the event it is still owned by including the house, grounds and Shrimp & Mirliton Casserole $55 $85 the second spouse. improvements. Normally, this right of String Bean and Artichoke Casserole $45 $70 When there is only one marriage and use and habitation shall last for so long Artichoke Casserole $45 $70 all the children are from that marriage, as the surviving spouse may live, but Turkey Roast with Brown Gravy (per turkey) $75 old wills with usufruct provisions his time can be limited by a specific **Turkey averages 10 lbs. of all meat cause unnecessary problems and event or provision detailed in the will. expense. Everyone with only one mar - Some parents wish to favor one child riage who has an old usufruct will over the others as a reward for care Full menus should have a new will executed. Once giving to the parents or because that to compliment all the children are grown and gone, child just needs more help than the our entrées! and none are permanently disabled, others. This can be done through the spouses can leave everything to each use of the right of use and habitation 2717 Williams Blvd. other. However, if you have no will, and through the use of the usufruct. Kenner, LA the surviving spouse has a usufruct and However, if the will is improperly or the children are the naked owners. The vaguely worded, the usufruct or right 469-7373 usufruct will terminate upon the of use and habitation can be thrown www.messinascatering.com 16 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R

H Banking Christmas challenge By gUY WILLIAMS Are you ready row money for Christmas – this particu - in the basket. Think of those 10 feet you for Christmas caroling, to see a for a challenge? larly means don’t use your charge card. around the register as a “no buy” zone Christmas music program at a church or Can you step up gifts are quickly broken and forgotten, and just “say no.” If a new product has on a trip to see the bonfires on the river. and change your behavior? The pressure debt lasts forever. Never forget, just been introduced and is on all the TV We live in a wonderful state with a mul - is on. Stores are decorated for Christmas, Christmas is not about spending money. channels, don’t buy it. If the product is titude of free entertainment options, par - catalogs are arriving daily and marketers It is about spending time. The god of all really good, it will be there next year and ticularly at Christmas. are flooding the airways with the sights creation left the glories and comfort of will probably be better and cheaper. It is also a great idea to budget your and sounds of Christmas. heaven to live with us. He chose to live Resist the catalogs. If you can, just throw time, including down time, to just relax. For many of us the pressure is self- simply and spent time with his friends. them in the garbage and don’t even let One of the best decisions my wife and I induced. We desire to please our families Over-spending and over-indulging have them in the house. They are designed to made as a young couple was to alternate and friends, get all the decorations just less than nothing to do with the baby in make everything look better than it is and Christmas at our two families’ homes. right, serve the top chef meal just the the manger. when you buy from them you deprive The children enjoyed traveling to way grandma did – while the snow falls, Once you decide not to spend money our local merchants of much needed rev - Pittsburgh on alternate years to see their the fire burns, carolers sing and the that you don’t have, here are some sur - enue. grandparents and they also enjoyed the angelic children look on with beaming vival tips to help you have a wonderful Finally, and this may seem odd, go years here in New Orleans. By not rush - faces. Christmas season. Remember and repeat Christmas shopping twice. The first time ing around and trying to do it all, we got It can’t be done. This is nostalgia for a as often as necessary, “It is not my job to go without a charge card and without any to settle in and really enjoy the people time that never was. unrealizable expec - fulfill the deepest desires and heartfelt cash. Make a list of everything that you that we were with. tations collide with pressures of time, longings of those on my gift list.” This is intend to buy, including the price, loca - So are you up for the challenge? Plan resulting in exhaustion, over-spending, the antidote to “I have to find the perfect tion and the intended recipient. Take this for a relaxed Christmas – spend time, not overeating and overdrinking. The pre - gift”. you don’t. I am not saying to have list home and total it up. Don’t forget money – and you will avoid the hang - dictable result is disappointment, debt nothing under the tree, but have fewer sales tax. Then sleep on it. The next day overs. Merry Christmas! H and sometimes a food and alcohol hang - things that are more likely to last. If you or next week go back with just the over. really want to help your children, teach money that you need and buy only what Guy Williams is president and chief The good news is that it doesn’t have them financial responsibility. This is love you have decided you really want. Then executive officer of Gulf Coast Bank and to be this way. you can take the challenge that lasts and will help their whole lives. stop. The best part about this plan is no Trust Company. Their Kenner branch and make it better this year. you can have Focus on these key indicators when more trips to the mall or to the store. you office is located at 3410 Williams a happy, indeed a merry Christmas, with - you are being presented with an unneces - are finished, so relax. Boulevard. Brian Behlar, branch manag - out the hangover. sary impulse purchase. Anything within With the time and money that you have er, can be contacted at 565-3661. Visit Here’s how. First, resolve not to spend 10 feet of the cash register is designed to saved, begin to think of ways to really Gulf Coast Bank and Trust’s website at money that you don’t have. Do not bor - make you stick just this one more thing enjoy the season. Invite friends to join www.gulfbank.com. KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 17

H Airport Traveling during the holidays When Santa hits the skies for the holidays he doesn’t have to worry By PATRICIA MALONE Interim director of Aviation about his transmission breaking down. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport BUT YOU DO!

November began the busy holiday for liquid products, you will have an travel season across the country and opportunity to pack your purchases and especially at airports. For the past few avoid the liquid carry-on restrictions. decades, millions of travelers have set While you await the departure of your out on their annual trek via air to spend flight, take advantage of our free Wi- time with friends and family during the Fi. holidays. With all of the financial chal - Next, all persons traveling by air lenges affecting consumers, many outside of the united States are Before you get on the road for the holidays, get your transmission would-be travelers may have wondered required to present a passport or a valid serviced, so you and your family won’t be stranded for the holidays! whether or not they could afford the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative expense of a holiday airline ticket this (WHTI) travel document to enter or re- year. Fortunately, a number of airlines enter the united States. This includes Most cars serviced for $99 have been running special discount travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda promotions since September making it and the 17 nations in the Caribbean easier for many to travel during the region. The passport requirement does holiday period. If you will be traveling not apply to u.S. citizens traveling to from Louis Armstrong New Orleans or returning directly from a u.S. terri - International Airport on an airline dur - tory. If you don’t have a passport and ing the holiday season, you might need one to travel, allow sufficient appreciate some traveling tips to make time to make application and receive Automatic Transmission, Inc. your travel easier. Here are a few. your document prior to the departure Dennis Automotive First, our airport is now served by 10 date. airlines: AeroMéxico, American If you are picking up holiday guests Airlines, Air Tran Airways, traveling through Armstrong 2220 Airline Drive, Kenner Continental Airlines, Delta Air Lines, International Airport to visit you, I sug - JetBlue Airways, Northwest Airlines, gest you take advantage of our cell 466-1381 Southwest Airlines, united Airlines phone lot. This parking lot is available Family owned and operated since 1976 and u.S. Airways. Before you depart year round. It is free, has security pres - for the airport, be sure to verify that ent and is located across Airline Drive your flight is on time by checking with from the airport in a fenced area FAMILY LAW your airline via their website. Flight marked with a huge brown sign. Here schedules and information regarding is how it works. When your arriving ESTATE PLANNING travel to and from Armstrong party is in baggage claim and have SOCIAL SECURITY CLAIMS International Airport are available on received their luggage, they simply call our website, www.flymsy.com . you on your cell phone to let you know PERSONAL INJURY Before you travel, visit the they are ready to go. In minutes, you Transportation Security Administration will be able to pick them up outside (TSA) website at www.tsa.gov to baggage claim on the lower roadway. It review what can and cannot be carried is important to note that the lower bag - on-board aircraft. For example, during gage claim area is not a waiting area. If the holidays there may be a restriction you park there, the police will ask you on the carry-on of wrapped packages. to move so please use the cell phone • Mother In addition, the restriction on the lot. It is easy to use, safe and conven - amount of liquids you can carry on- ient. • Wife board still applies. This policy is As you travel this holiday season, • Community Leader known as 3-1-1 for carry-ons. It says 3- please know that the New Orleans 1-1 for carry-ons = 3 ounce bottle or Aviation Board and the staff of • Business Owner less (by volume); 1 quart-sized, clear, Armstrong International Airport are plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passen - working hard to provide you with qual - ger placed in screening bin. One-quart ity service and safe facilities. We want bag per person limits the total liquid to make your time spent in our airport volume each traveler can bring. The 3 as pleasant as possible. Happy holidays Arita M. L. Bohannan ounce container size is a security meas - to you and yours! H ure. Attorney at Law On the day of your departure, give Pat Malone may be reached at direc - yourself plenty of time to park, check- [email protected] . Check your local in and process through security. During listings for the air time of the “Hard Working People Deserve a the holidays, we are suggesting you Armstrong International Airport 30 allow two hours prior to departure. minute television program, “Airport Hard Working Attorney” Also, allow some time to visit our Alive” or view it on the airport website shops before you check luggage. By by clicking on the “Airport Alive” link 1201 Williams Blvd. Kenner, La • 468.1100 shopping before check-in, particularly on the homepage, www.flymsy.com . www.nolalawyer.com 18 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R H Health A time to say thank you By KEITh M. dARCEY The month of Archbishop Chapelle High School. It could even strike a teacher or some - goals. December is a These three schools, during the month one else they love. When our Cancer There are so many great examples great time to say of October, used “Breast Cancer Care Navigator addressed the student such as this throughout our community. “thank you.” Awareness” as a rallying point to raise bodies, she explained how it could hap - As we celebrate the holidays and have a Whether it is for a gift we have money in support of cancer treatment at pen to them, despite their young age. more heightened sense of family, we received, the support someone has given East Jefferson general Hospital. The girls from each school wanted to thank everyone who is out there making us throughout the year or the impact All three schools set aside their tradi - make sure when someone in our com - a difference. It is because of these altru - someone has made on our lives, all us tional school colors and unified around munity develops breast cancer, or any istic and philanthropic minded individu - should take a moment to show gratitude. the color pink. They competed in pink other type of cancer, the best treatments als that East Jefferson can thrive. Once As your community hospital, East volley games and transformed the home are available. This was a collective again, thank you for allowing us to be Jefferson would like to thank everyone gym into a sea of pink. They sold pink t- effort that should not go unnoticed. your community hospital. H who plays a role in making sure quality shirts, had class fundraising competi - First, the money that was raised tremen - healthcare is available. Our leadership, tions, bake sales, raffles and even a con - dously benefits patients who are in the Keith M. Darcey is a communications physicians, nurses and staff can concen - test to guess the number of pink M&Ms fight of their lives, and they should be specialist with East Jefferson General trate on providing the necessary medical in the jar. In addition, the jazz band at extremely proud of that. Hospital located at 4200 Houma care to the populations we serve in large Dominican donated the proceeds from Secondly, and equally important, is Boulevard in Metairie. Darcey can be part because of the donations of time their Pinktober concert at the Hard Rock that their efforts show the future of our reached at 889-7110 or at and money from individuals and corpo - Cafe. area is in good hands. It is a compliment [email protected]. East Jefferson rations throughout the area. In total, these three schools donated to this generation’s understanding that General Hospital, Louisiana’s first As an example, one such thank you $16,800 to the East Jefferson they have a sense of community and Nurse Magnet hospital, is a publicly we would like to say is to the faculty, Foundation for the treatment of cancer they know they can make a difference. owned, not-for-profit community hospi - staff, students and families at Mt. patients. They realized that when it It is to their credit that they see a need tal, providing care to the residents of the Carmel Academy, St. Mary’s comes to breast cancer it could strike and have the dedication and follow East Bank of Jefferson Parish and sur - Dominican High School and their mothers, grandmothers or sisters. through necessary to accomplish their rounding communities. For those in mourning, the good “cheer” from Thanksgiving through Christmas can be a nightmare By ALLAN KATZ For most of us, the period between friendly salutations. But, for those bear - seem to mock their grief and make their a physician, a member of the clergy or a Thanksgiving and Christmas is a time of ing the burden of losses – either recent anguish even worse. social worker. good cheer, holiday music, gifts and or long ago – the holiday season can Very often, the physicians who first “We’ve really learned to customize the recognize the symptoms of depression treatment for those suffering the are primary care/family practice special - advanced symptoms of deep depres - ists like Dr. Mehul Sheth, a native of sion,” said Dr. Sheth. “Every case of the Metairie who recently joined the staff of ‘holiday blues’ does not require medical Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner. attention. It’s only natural to feel grief “Depression can occur any time of the for those we love who have passed on. year but, in my own experience, the joy But when the sense of grief becomes all- 1F00a% Amll Aomeuricasn BBeef u• NrEVgERe FRrOs ZEN No Additives, Fillers or Preservatives of the holidays can have a crushing consuming, it might well be wise to seek effect on patients suffering anguish over help. It’s an understatement to say that spouses, children, friends and relatives no two cases of depression are exactly Super Dawgs Sun. - Thurs. FREE TOPPINGS 10:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. who have died. For those who are alike. But depression is manageable, mourning their losses, every celebration even when it’s deep-seated and rooted in FREE FRIES Fri. & Sat. Fresh Cut Fries with burger purchase 10:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. of the holidays seems to be mocking mourning for a loved one who is gone.” 2009 Williams Blvd. their sadness. The holiday blues can lead Dr. Sheth says that as the 2009 holiday Kenner, LA Fresh Squeezed Lemonade (Between W. Napoleon & W. Metaire) to a deep depression that threatens a per - season nears, primary care/family prac - Phone in orders son’s mental balance, their health and tice physicians are already receiving Hand Dipped Shakes even their ability to sustain their lives.” calls from patients and patient’s families 305-2427 A graduate of Ecole Classique, Loyola concerned about holiday anxieties. “No university and Tulane university one who is feeling pangs of anxiety or Medical School, Dr. Sheth first encoun - anguish during the holidays should think tered this kind of depression when he that they’re alone or that no one under - treated patients during his residency fol - stands,” said Dr. Sheth. “These troubling lowing Hurricane Katrina. feelings are more common that you “While the Thanksgiving and might imagine and can be helped, both Christmas after Katrina was for many a by medical therapy and counseling. No time of thanksgiving that they were still one should allow themselves to sit in a Lunch & Dinner alive and had their homes, for those who corner and feel miserable while others (closed Sundays) had suffered terrible losses it was often a celebrate the holidays. There is plenty of time of deep depression for people who help available and eager to serve.” asked, `What is there to celebrate?’” said Dr. Sheth is impressed by Ochsner’s new orLeAns’ home CooKing! Dr. Sheth. For many of these patients, facilities in Kenner. “I’m impressed by Two Convenient locations... the answer was in medical therapy that the determination of the Ochsner admin - one great menu!!! included anti-depressants that helped istration to build a great hospital here,” relieve the tensions and anguish that so said Dr. Sheth. “The facilities are very KENNER METAIRIE many suffered. But, for others, the best good, the staff is excellent and the qual - 910 W. ESPLANADE 1001 LIVE OAK @ Chateau next to Burger King between Bonnabel & Lake Ave. therapy was simply an opportunity to ity of patient care is really outstand - 463-3030 838-0022 vent their frustrations, fears and tears to ing.” H www.mredsno.com KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 19

H Community The key to a successful 2009 Laketown Festival was lowering ticket prices By ALLAN KATZ The 2009 Laketown Festival will clear between $100,000 and $110,000 for the Kenner Recreation Department and the key to its success was lowering the price of adult tickets from $18 to $7. That’s the opinion of Mayor Ed Muniz, who came up with the idea of an annual Laketown Festival, and is pleased with the financial success of this year’s one-day A large early Laketown Festival crowd Holiday event. The sponsors of the Laketown gets ready for day long band perform - Festival are the Kenner Convention and ances capped by musician Eddie Visitors Bureau, a non-profit entity, and the Money. Photo by Barry Sprague city of Kenner. around 8:00 p.m.,” said Mayor Muniz. “We’re still waiting for a couple of bills “The arts and crafts vendors were also sell - Gift to come in, but the final tabulation will ing out their inventories. This year, we show between $100,000 and $110,000 charged the vendors a percentage of their being raised for the Kenner Recreation proceeds rather than a flat fee and that also Department,” said the mayor. seemed to work out well.” Certificates! Besides being a financial success, the Mayor Muniz said he thinks the success 2009 Laketown Festival was also a great of the festival demonstrates that despite a success with audiences, says Mary-Sharon recession and economic hard times, fami - Howland, the city’s director of community lies nevertheless budget for entertainment • Tires services who worked at the gate of the events that they feel are affordable and event which went on from noon to 10:30 offer good value in terms of entertainment, • Wheels p.m. and featured a performance by singer food and drinks. Eddie Money that drew cheers and “Our goals all along ha -ve been to create • Automotive applause from the more than 8,000 festival an annual event that will benefit the Kenner goers. Recreation Department while also showing Services “The crowd was in a great mood,” said off Kenner’s lakefront venue and attracting Howland. “They were laughing and skip - a big crowd to the shores of Lake ping when they came in through the gate, Pontchartrain for fun, music and good cui - and laughing and skipping when they left to sine,” said Mayor Muniz. “I think that this go home. We were fortunate that the weath - year, we’ve done a good job of achieving er was great, the performers were outstand - those goals. But, for the whole thing to ing and we had excellent vendors this work, we had come up with a good price year.” point that would attract families and offer Muniz said that besides cutting ticket attractions, like singer Eddie Money and prices, another key was reducing the num - the Cowboy Mouth band, which people ber of vendors so that those who participat - really want to see and hear. I think we cre - ed at the festival had a good chance to have ated a model this year that we can success - a profitable day. fully follow in the years to come for the “Most of our vendors ran out of food benefit of KRD and Laketown.” H Tires • Alignments • Balancing • Oil Changes Shocks • Air Conditioner Work • Struts Gregory Carroll wins Kenner Brake Service • Batteries • Belts • Hoses Tune-Ups CV Joints • Fuel Injection Cleaning District 1 council race runoff On November 14, 2009, voters chose want to continue what Marc Johnson had non-profit manager gregory W. Carroll to started but I intend to come in with my fill the unexpired term for Kenner’s own ideas and get involved first-hand in District 1 council seat, formerly held by working on the challenges the city is fac - Marc Johnson, who was elected to the ing. There are tough times ahead for Louisiana Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal Kenner and I promise I will give my best in April. Carroll, 48, received 694 votes, effort to work for my district and also 58 percent of the total cast, and Robert alongside my fellow council members to Dawson received 501 votes in the runoff. improve the quality of life in District 1 The seat had been occupied by Sharon T. and the entire city of Kenner. 4200 Williams Blvd. Augillard, who was appointed by the Carroll, who will be sworn in at a pri - council as the interim council member. vate ceremony on November 30 and 465-1312 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday This election represented a grassroots again at his first council meeting on www.scottystireauto.com effort of the people and I want to thank December 3, will finish Johnson’s term them for their participation. I look for - which ends June 30, 2010. The election ward to working with the mayor and the for a new four year term will be held on other city council district members. I March 27, 2010. H 20 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R

H Tourism Join the KCVB to help your business and your community By ShARON SOLOMON “Synergy”...a very interesting by an event planner, the KCVB can provide a wide vari - meeting planner guide and website plus have access to word. The Kenner Convention ety of services to conventions...including hotels, restau - confidential event listings from the Pontchartrain and Visitors Bureau and its rants, transportation, florists, photographers and a myr - Center. Two updates are provided annually of events members create an environment iad of other goods and services. planned for the next six months. This level of member - of synergy by joining together different businesses for you can be a part of the future of your community by ship would be for a company who could obtain a direct the benefit of the whole community. The combined joining us in our endeavors. For as little as $75 a year benefit from attendees coming to Kenner. effect of the common effort is greater than the sum of you can become a member of the KCVB with a civic Do you want more information about becoming a individual efforts. By hotels, restaurants, gas stations, membership, which is for individuals and businesses member of the KCVB and being part of our future? museums, car rentals, printers, florists, etc., banding who do not wish to contact clients directly, but will ben - Contact me at 464-9494. together and participating in securing meetings, con - efit from the visitors coming to our areas. Civic mem - Have a wonderful and safe holiday and a happy new ventions, sporting events and the like, we create an eco - bers receive invitations to annual KCVB events and year! H nomic growth in our community. That is the goal of the receive bureau communications. KCVB, an affiliation of numerous businesses working For as little as $175 a year you can receive lead and Sharon Solomon is the marketing director for the together to increase the number of conventions and vis - contact information of the planners who are bringing Kenner Convention and Visitors Bureau, located at itors to our area. their meetings, conventions, trade shows and sporting 2100 Third Street in Rivertown. Sharon Solomon can be Kenner offers everything New Orleans does...and events to the Pontchartrain Center. This membership is reached at 464-9494, via email at [email protected] more! Both before and after the site selection process for businesses who want to advertise in the KCVB’s or at www.kennercvb.com .

Heritage Hall (continued from page 1) Kenner, having served at one time or of $400 for a three-hour event. Seating is dant and everything about the building viable. “I’m certainly not against the another as a general mercantile store, available for 150 and the building can speaks to its history and special place in concept of Rivertown as a historic drug store, doctor’s office, post office and hold 225 people. Tables and black chairs Kenner’s annals. Anyone who is inter - neighborhood that reminds us of motorcycle dealership before becoming a are provided with white chairs at an addi - ested in renting this great facility can Kenner’s special history,” said the Wildlife and Fisheries Museum. tional charge. Linens and cateri ng are not call me at 468-7293.” mayor. “But, to make sense from a fis - Mary-Sharon Howland, Kenner’s provided. “We have already hosted a Mayor Muniz said the conversion of cal point of view, we have to find Director of Community Services, says number of very successful events,” said Heritage Hall into a possible money- ways to make profitable uses of some that rental fees will vary depending on Howland. “Everyone who has used the maker is a first step in the effort to of Rivertown’s historic properties. I the event and the special needs of the building has been very pleased. It’s eas - turn Rivertown into a place that is not think it can be done and this is a first renter but will generally be in the range ily accessible, nearby parking is abun - only historic but also commercially effort in that direction.” H

The capacity of Heritage Hall is 225 people. Heritage Hall is now available for booking.

Heritage Hall is located in Rivertown. Photos by Barry Sprague. KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 21

H Health "We do Honey Dos!" e! what's brok New system to improve stroke care adjust & fix • Mount flat screen at Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner wall bracket We • Hang ceiling fan rep Gift air, Cer han tific • Hang light fixture By PAOLO ZANBITO g, in at sta es ll, r • Remove & recaulk epla When it comes to a stroke, time is of the utmost delivers easy, efficient consultations, centralized data ce, tub surround importance. During a stroke, 1.9 million brain cells collection for reporting and analysis, and network- • Patch drywall will die in one minute. Every second counts from the building expertise for strong referral networks,” says • Install dishwasher time the first symptom appears until you receive Dr. gaines. Currently, more than 65 spoke hospitals • Replace shower head medical attention. Time lost is brain lost. And yet and 14 hub hospitals in eight states are using $ • Install interior door fewer than one in five Americans can identify even REACH. Call for complete list! one stroke symptom. The American Heart Association recommends that Knowing just how crucial time is to each and every you be aware of the following symptoms so that you FR stroke patient, Ochsner has implemented a new sys - are able to identify the warning signs of stroke: EE [email protected] TES MAJO 65 R CREDIT Amodern Upgrade LLC CARDS A tem called REACH. This system will allow neurolo - Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or • Lloyd Schoen III • 45CC1-E3PT0E9D7 gists at Ochsner Medical Center-Jefferson Highway, leg, especially on one side of the body. “The Hub,” to provide consults to its smaller “spoke” Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understand - hospitals, including Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner, ing. for remote stroke evaluation. “This telestroke service Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes. will enable patients to receive immediate evaluation Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance when every minute counts,” says Jim House, director or coordination. of emergency services at OMC-Kenner. Sudden, severe headache with no known cause. Dr. Kenneth gaines, chairman of Ochsner’s For more information, please contact OMC- Neurology Department, explains the great need for Kenner Emergency Department at 464-8015. H this service in urban hospitals, where there are often unmet stroke care needs. “REACH provides a way to Paolo Zambito, R.N., is chief executive officer at link our hospitals that do not have neurologists on Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner and has served in call to our main campus, where multiple stroke neu - this role for four years. Zambito has been at the rologists will manage the telemedicine system on a Kenner facility for over 18 years. Zambito, who rotating basis.” serves on the boards of the National Kidney The REACH system began in 2003 to quickly and Foundation of Louisiana and the Louisiana Extended remotely evaluate stroke patients, who often can be Care Hospital of Kenner is also a member of the treated with the IV drug tPA within three hours to Jefferson Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic minimize long-term effects. “The REACH solution Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana. H Community SABELLA’S Holiday arts and crafts fair to be held in Rivertown PLUMBING SMALL JOBS Kenner’s Community Service Department is be sold. sponsoring another free to the public arts and Community Services Director Mary-Sharon Repairs • Drain Cleaning crafts fair at Heritage Hall on Saturday, Howland said city officials have high hopes for December 5, in Rivertown. The event will be another successful event in December. Hot Water Heaters held from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Among the Shortly after Heritage Hall opened this sum - • items local vendors will be selling are home- mer, her department sponsored a very successful Residential Repairs made jewelry, embroidery handbags, totes, arts and crafts fair on August 1 that not only Servicing Metairie & Kenner engraved paintings, sandblasted items, candles, included Heritage Hall, but saw additional craft floral wreaths, etched glass and fleur-de-lis jew - booths spread to Kenner’s Exhibition Hall. 81 8-0007 elry. Hamburgers, hot dogs and soft drinks will For more information call 468-7293. H Sammy Sabella Owner/Operated Free throw contest for children ages eight to 13 Licensed Master Plumber Over 25 Years The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, tions paid by the Elks organization. New Orleans Lodge 30, a charitable, non-profit The “Hoop Shoot” free throw program is sched - organization is sponsoring the local Elks national uled for Saturday January 9, 2010 at the Mike “Hoop Shoot” free throw competition for all young - Miley gym, located at 6717 West Metairie Avenue sters in the contest age brackets regardless of ath - in Metairie, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Anyone letic abilities. The event, in existence for 37 years, ages eight to 13 is welcome to attend and partici - is America’s largest non-commercial coeducational pate in the event. There is no charge to enter the sports program for children regardless of race, color contest and food and refreshments will be provided. COMPLETE or creed. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. at the Mike The organization’s goal is to give children a Miley gymnasium. Children ages eight and nine are PEST & TERMITE CONTROL chance to participate and compete without letting scheduled to shoot at 9:00 a.m. with the 10 and 11 the constraints of time, personnel and facilities keep age group starting at approximately 10:15 a.m. The them from realizing their dreams. The winners of 12 to 13 age group will begin at approximately the local contest will advance to the state contest 11:30 a.m. 4400 Wabash Street, Metairie, LA 70001 with opportunities to move on to the regional com - Contact Elks Lodge 30 “Hoop Shoot” chairman petition in Dallas, Texas, and the nationals in John LaCombe at 468-2299 for more information. H (504) 888-4941 Springfield, Maine, with travel and accommoda - Fax (504) 888-8120 22 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R H Sports Saints going for it all By KEN TRAhAN In Pro Bowler Chris McAlister Saints have been a clear and Zach Strief has been solid. anyone. In particular, it years and former Saints star Mike present danger to reach and This is by far the biggest and would help the Saints in past, McKenzie. When all of the possibly win the Super most physical line the Saints dealing with the pass rush of New injured players return, one Bowl. In 2006, they were have ever had. Payton got Jared Allen of the Vikings. Orleans Saints owner has or two players will have to more of a surprise team, rid - the message loud and clear At home, defensive line - been accused of being go. The Saints will be well- ing the wave of an emotion - about running the ball to men have a tremendous thrifty, not opening his armed in the secondary at al crest upon returning to become a better team and to advantage over their offen - pocket book to secure the that point. New Orleans, carrying an be a championship threat. sive counterparts in dealing best talent available via free Earlier, when Billy Miller entire community to higher He addressed it, along with with snap counts, getting agency. On most occasions, went down, the Saints went heights in a time of need. general Manager Mickey good jumps and pressuring the charge was unjust. It is out and got David Thomas, Sean Payton’s schemes and Loomis. The results are the quarterback. Ask Rickey most certainly not the case who has been a great find for the team’s performance obvious. Through 10 games, Jackson and Pat Swilling in 2009. Tom Benson and the Saints offense. When caught many off-guard. That the Saints had thrown the how much they benefited the New Orleans Saints are garrett Hartley was sus - is not the case in 2009. football 320 times and run it from the crowd noise in get - going for it all. pended for four games, John Once the Saints started 3-0 324 times, rushing for a ting jumps and recording The evidence is clear. In Carney was signed. When this season, they have not robust average of 4.8 yards sacks in the “Dome Patrol” the face of mounting injuries Hartley was reinstated, the caught anyone off-guard. In per carry. years from 1987 to 1992. It’s to the team’s secondary, Saints kept both, paying two fact, they have been the tar - The key to winning a a totally different story on with Tracy Porter, Jabari salaries. Hartley is most get of all opponents, with a championship is to have bal - the road. greer, Randall gay and likely the future in the bulls-eye on their chests. It ance on offense, to be able Of course, if the Saints Darren Sharper all going Saints’ kicking game while has not mattered. to run the ball to play keep- were forced to head to down at one point or anoth - Carney is the present. That’s The defense of gregg away from opposing offens - Minnesota, they would do so er, Benson did not simply sit a move you make when you Williams has been oppor - es and to control the football indoors, their preferred back and allow reserves to feel strongly about your tunistic, creating the most in tough elements. Of mode of operation with their absorb the full responsibility ability to win a champi - turnovers in the NFL, scor - course, if you are at home, high-powered offense. Still, of dealing with opposing onship. ing points and setting up the elements will be perfect the raucous, hostile crowd NFL passing games. He Of course, this is the first points for the offense. in the Superdome. would make it difficult. spent money to sign former time that the New Orleans Darren Sharper has been Earning home-field advan - Injuries are a huge part of the league’s MVP on tage throughout the NFC the game. The Saints have defense. Will Smith is hav - playoffs is a very important had their share in 2009 and ing a Pro Bowl season. goal for the Saints down the have overcome them to Jabari greer has played at an stretch. Realistically, it will become an elite team. given extremely high level. Roman come down to New Orleans the track record of Tom Harper is being used cor - and Minnesota. Benson in 2009, this fran - rectly and is an excellent The Vikings were a one- chise will spare no expense tackler and blitzer. loss team at press time while at taking its best shot at win - Speaking of offense, Drew the Saints were unbeaten ning a championship this Brees has had an MVP-type heading into the Monday season, spending what needs of season. Robert Meachem night showdown with the to be spent to acquire the has become a big-play man. Patriots. Should both teams best talent necessary to win. Devery Henderson is catch - finish with the same record, That’s a comforting feel - ing the ball quite well. it would go to a tie-breaker. ing for Saints fans, who find Marques Colston remains a The first criteria is head- their beloved black and gold marquee player. Jeremy to-head. The two teams did in rare air, thanks to an Shockey has played well and not play each other. The sec - owner who has been willing has stayed healthy. David ond is record in-conference to pay the fare in an effort to Thomas has emerged as a record. Minnesota’s loss was wear the crown, giving loy - fine player. to Pittsburgh, an AFC team. alists an even greater reason The running back-by-com - Should both the Saints and to care. That’s a far cry from mittee approach with Pierre Vikings have the same the days of going nowhere – We are a locally owned, independently operated, Thomas, Mike Bell and record overall and the same slowly, but surely. In 2009, family funeral home continuing a tradition that has Reggie Bush has worked record in the NFC, it would they are going somewhere– endured for 119 years! And we believe that makes a very well. For the first time come down to strength-of- fast, as in the speed of the great difference in the care, service and value your during the Payton regime, schedule. team. H the Saints are running the That goes according to the family receives. If you ever have a question or would football and running it records of your opponents. like more information feel free to call or stop by. Ken Trahan serves as extremely well. Of course, At press time, the opponents sports director of WGSO that is largely due to the of the Vikings had a better 990 AM/WGSO.com and is physical run-blocking of an overall record than the president and general man - outstanding offensive line. opponents of the Saints. Of ager of neworleans.com guards Jahri Evans and course, that can change over Sports . Trahan is the also Carl Nicks are as good a tan - the final few weeks. the general manager and dem as there is in the league. As a result, the goal has to chairman of the board of the Jon Stinchcomb has been be to finish one game clear Saints Hall of Fame Museum excellent at tackle. On the of Minnesota to earn home in the Louisiana Superdome, opposite side, the combina - field. Playing at home would and runs the Life Resources tion of Jermon Bushrod and be a huge advantage against Sports Ministry. KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 23 H Investing The ins and outs of employer-granted stock options – Part I By JOhN L. PREVOST Many companies offer their the option has been granted before it can be exercised. John L. Prevost is a financial advisor and first vice employees benefit programs Most often the schedule will either be on a graduat - president of investments with Wells Fargo Advisors. that include everything from ed or cliff-vesting format. If it is a graduated vesting This column was written by Wells Fargo Advisors and medical insurance to a 401(k) schedule, some percentage of the options become provided courtesy of John Prevost whose office is retirement plan. But, if you belong to a select group exercisable at regular intervals over a certain period. located at 111 Veterans Boulevard, Suite 1800, in of leaders in your company, you may also have anoth - For example, a common vesting schedule requires Metairie. Prevost can be contacted at 849-6649. The er benefit that could prove to be extremely valuable. that employees wait one year from the grant date accuracy and completeness of this article are not For the first time in your career, you could have before any of the options are exercisable. On the first guaranteed. The material is distributed solely for access to employer-granted stock options. anniversary of the grant date, 20 percent of the information purposes and is not a solicitation or an A stock option is the right to purchase a company’s options can be exercised. under this type of schedule, offer to buy any security or instrument or to partici - stock in the future at a fixed price. When you exercise the remaining options will continue to vest at the rate pate in any trading strategy. Wells Fargo Advisors, an option, you purchase shares of the company’s of 20 percent per year for the next four years until all LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and stock directly from the company at the grant price, a of the options are fully vested. a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo and price set by the company at the time the stock option The cliff vesting schedule stipulates that the options Company. Investments and insurance products are grant is made. The timing and strategy used when will all become available at some future time. A com - not FDIC-insured, not bank-guaranteed and may lose exercising stock options is tied to four primary vari - mon cliff-vesting schedule provides that none of the value. ables: vesting, expiration, taxes and stock price. options granted can be exercised within the first three While you may be able to make big profits on your years following the grant date. On the third anniver - options if the stock price appreciates substantially sary of the grant date, all of the options are immedi - WROUGHT IRON WORK beyond the grant price you will pay, there are other ately available for exercise. Custom built fences, gates, burglar bars, dumpster enclosures, things like vesting schedules, expiration dates and the Expiration dates: Expiration dates refer to the end handrails, A/C cages, minor repairs rules guiding the various types of options you may of the option’s life. Stock options are usually granted 30 years experience Roger Blount want to consider before taking any leaps. Below, we for a specific period and must be exercised within that 813-5870 will explore the specific rules regarding vesting period. A common option term is 10 years, after schedules and expiration dates. which, the option expires. you should be aware of the Vesting schedules: Most options are granted sub - terms of your stock option plan with respect to any ject to a vesting schedule, which refers to the dates on changes in these dates. which options can be exercised. This schedule may Employer-granted stock options can be a very valu - significantly affect the timing of your option exercis - able addition to your compensation package and your es so you should be well versed on your company’s portfolio. Just remember to remain well-versed in the rules. By instituting a vesting schedule, an employer rules of your company’s plan so you can continue to may require you to complete a period of service after benefit for many years to come. H H Health Meniscus tears: A common cause of knee pain By ChARLES P. MURPhY, M.d. Meniscus tears of the knee cus tear. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan are a very common knee condition seen in patients of is often useful in diagnosing a meniscus tear. all ages. The meniscus is a fibrocartilage crescent- Treatment of meniscus tears depends on many fac - shaped structure within the knee that functions as a tors including patient age, patient activity level, shock absorber as well as provides stability to the severity and type of symptoms, and presence of knee. The knee contains two menisci, the medial coexisting conditions. In active individuals with a meniscus (inside aspect of knee) and the lateral symptomatic meniscus tear and without significant meniscus (outside aspect of knee). The medial arthritic disease, knee arthroscopy can provide excel - meniscus is torn much more commonly than the lat - lent relief of complaints. In more sedentary individ - eral meniscus. Meniscus tears as a result of trauma or uals with degenerative meniscus tears other treat - injury are common in younger patients involved in ments such as medication or joint injections may be sports. Meniscus tears can also occur without trauma considered. Older patients with advanced Window Screens Made & Installed as a result of degenerative changes in older individ - osteoarthritis and meniscus tears may consider joint uals; these degenerative meniscus tears often coexist replacement surgery. An evaluation by an orthopedic PATIO COVERS • ROOFING • GLASS-ENCLOSED ROOMS with osteoarthritis. surgeon is necessary to properly diagnose and treat a Patients with a meniscus tear may present with a knee meniscus tear. H • Pool Enclosures • Patio Covers history of twisting injury to the knee or with atrau - • Carports • Glass Rooms matic gradual onset of symptoms localized to one Charles P. Murphy, M.D. is a board certified • Insulated Rooms • Room Additions • Replacement • Screened Rooms side of the knee. Patients may complain of sharp pain orthopedic surgeon with over 20 years experience. Windows • Vinyl Siding with walking, kneeling, squatting or other activity. Dr. Murphy is the founding partner of the • Gutters Patients may report knee swelling and note mechan - Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine. The LICENSED & FULLY INSURED ical knee catching, locking or giving way. Physical Orthopedic Center is a multi-specialty center dedi - OVER 35-YEARS EXPERIENCE IN THE NEW ORLEANS AREA examination of the knee may show an effusion cated to complete musculoskeletal care with focused (swelling) and usually demonstrates joint line ten - expertise in shoulder and knee injuries. Offices are TRIPLE BBB CONSTRUCTION derness in the area of the meniscus tear. Plain X-rays located in Kenner and Metairie. For additional 2158 Kenner Ave. FR of the knee may be normal in patients with a menis - information call 467-5900. 504-467-6998 E E E ST IM A T ES 24 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R H Health Knowing your limits when hitting the slopes By CRAIg gOOdWIN In the next strains with the most common injury rounded ski conditioning program. together and hands over your skis. few months, being sprains of various joints. Reducing body fat will reduce the Most ski injuries occur toward the many of us will If a skiing vacation is planned it is stresses placed upon your legs while end of the day when fatigue begins to be packing our time to begin getting our bodies in skiing and staying hydrated while on set in so make sure that you take rest bags and heading toward the white shape. By beginning an exercise rou - the slopes will help keep you mental - periods throughout the day to be able powder of the Rocky Mountains. tine now you will be physically fit ly alert, avoiding situations that may to enjoy a full day on the slopes Time should be set aside to get in the first day. Lower body strength cause injury. injury free. H shape for the long hours, day after and endurance is critical to be able to When first hitting the slopes, take a day, spent on the ski slopes. A ski trip sustain a full day of skiing because couple of slow runs to warm-up and Craig Goodwin, physical therapist, is a very enjoyable vacation but we as our bodies fatigue, we increase the get acquainted with the surround - is president of Kenner Orthopedic must know our limits on the slopes to chance of injury. Another critical ings. If possible you should ski with and Sports Therapy, located at 3921 help prevent injury. There were an component in skiing is core strength. partners and stay in sight of each Williams Boulevard and two other estimated 275,000 injuries related to To avoid lower back injury, core other. Skiers should watch out for locations in Metairie and on the West snow skiing in 2001, as reported by strength should be maintained in the rocks and patches of ice on the ski Bank. Goodwin graduated from LSU the American Academy of abdominal and low back areas. trails and should make adjustments Medical School Department of Allied Orthopedic Surgeons, and the injury Cardiovascular endurance exercise for icy conditions, deep snow pow - Health, Department of Physical total has continued to rise each year. along with a good strengthening pro - der, wet snow and adverse weather Therapy in 1987. The professionals These injuries range from minor to gram can insure a more enjoyable conditions. at Kenner Orthopedic and Sports severe and include lacerations, con - vacation. Nutrition and hydration are Last, but not least, if you start to Therapy can be contacted via email tusions, fractures, dislocations and also important components to a well fall, keep your arms forward, feet at [email protected].

H Gardening Join Us For An Event. We Invite Your Membership. Horticultural hints for Kenner The Kenner Pofessional Business December Association’s (KPBA) By LYNNE dIMM Professional Business meeting will be held Association TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2009 It is not too late to add color to your It’s that time of the year to purchase Founded in 1985 garden for the holidays. Try planting poinsettias, some of the prettiest plants Call 962-3930 to make luncheon reservations pansies, dianthus, petunias, alyssum, around with their red leaves and yellow A Community Based Networking begins at 11:30 a.m. • Lunch at 11:45. calendulas and kale. In the first row of centers. They provide indoor joy and Networking Organization Crowne Plaza Hotel your garden I suggest planting dwarf color. The Christmas cactus, similar to For Men and Women snaps, alyssum and tiny petunias. In an orchid, is also pretty to display at 2829 Williams Blvd. • Kenner the second row plant pansies, petunias, this time of year and always makes a www.kpba.biz medium snaps, calendulas or kale. very welcome gift. Info: 962-3930 Pansies now come in beautiful vari - When deciding on presents this year, eties of color that are outstanding. The why not give the gift of life, colorful new matrix series is short with flowers plants. Live plants come in many beau - that do not bend over and hang down. tiful shapes, colors and sizes and are a In the winter plants tend to grow bet - symbol of the renewal of faith. While ter when dry, so do not over water. But shopping for gifts, take a look at the CENTURY since we have had less rain recently, do useful gardening books and tools that water trees deeply. Fertilize trees, are plentiful. shrubs and lawns with winterizer to In the new year, let us praise the TITLE feed the roots of the plants all winter wonderful maker of all things. Have a long and to produce a vigorous spring peaceful, happy holiday season. H “WE CLOSE REAL ESTATE growth. Spruce up your garden by adding new mulch t o keep the roots of Lynne Dimm, owner of Lynne Dimm’s TRANSACTIONS FORYOU” your plants warmer. you can use pine Nursery, LLC, located at 27 West 27th RANDY LOVITT needles, pine needle mulch, cypress Street, is a registered and licensed Notary Public mulch or rocks. Plastic or ground Louisiana horticulturist and landscape con - cloth under the mulch can also be used tractor, is a wholesale grower of bedding REAL ESTATE to control weeds. At one time newspa - plants and has over 30 years experience in TITLE TRANSFERS per was used under mulch but the the industry. Lynne Dimm can be reached paper attracted termites so it is no via email at [email protected] or by Real Estate Sales, Mortgages, longe r recommended. calling 468-5467. Donations, 1031 Tax Free Exchanges •ExpertClosingAssistance—InOperationover15years • In-House Problem Solving Real Estate Title Attorneys — You’ll need this •WekeepyouInformed—WereturnyourCalls •OurCostsareCompetitive—OurWorkisAccurate 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 360 • Metairie, Louisiana 70005 830-7979 FAX 831-2609 From the staff of the KENNER STAR! KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 25 H People First down and Heaven to go By Ed CLANCY At the Saints Philip Hannan. grapes to Syracuse.” acknowledge that Jerry Romig was not Hall of Fame But, his greatest love, next to Janice, When the Saints had to move, tem - the top-of-the-bill at the luncheon. That induction lunch - is football. So, it’s no surprise that porarily, to San Antonio for the 2005- honor went to kicker Morten Andersen eon last month, another one of Jerry’s hats was as pres - 2006 season after Katrina, the players – The great Dane – the only inductee longtime Saints stadium announcer ident of the Sugar Bowl for 1987-1988. said they felt more at home when they this year into the Saints Hall of Fame. Jerry Romig got a little emotional. As president, he was the lucky person heard Jerry Romig’s voice booming out The luncheon, the Saints Museum, “If I had my choice…” Jerry paused who got to present the trophy to the of the press box with his familiar, “First (now located at the Dome), and all of here, as the words wouldn’t come, and winning team after the game in the down Saints!,” and TOuCHdownnnn the other activities connected with the he choked back the tears “…I would be Superdome on January 1, 1988. He Saints!” These were home games, so induction, are organized under the the Saints’ announcer ‘till the day I became the poster boy for the phrase, the “Voice of the Saints,” was up in the watchful eye of the Kenner Star’s own die .” “Be careful what you wish for.” The booth in San Antonio. Ken Trahan. That would probably be the only way game, between Auburn and Syracuse, Jerry suffers from the number one ail - So what can you say about a man Jerry would ever be kept from the ended in a 16-16 tie, (the infamous “tie- ment inflicted upon team public who stands up in public and says, in announcer’s booth in the Louisiana Dye” game when Auburn coach Pat address announcers: he’s a home team effect, he wants to die with his boots Superdome, because he’s certainly got Dye went for a 30 yard field goal fan, but he has to be impartial on the on? I guess we’d have as much chance the tenure: 40 years behind the mike, instead of trying to win the game). mike at all times. He struggles with of getting that microphone out of from the first kickoff at Tulane Stadium “I was excitedly standing in the end that, but sometimes he loses the strug - Jerry’s hands as we would getting the in 1969. At the luncheon, Jerry was zone with the trophy,” he remembers. gle. A few years back, Jerry was the rifle away from Charlton Heston. Jerry given the “Joe gemelli Fleur de lis “They kicked the field goal for the tie, focus of a new dictum from the didn’t go that far but I wish he had. And Award,” for, as the citation reads, “giv - and the only happy guy in the whole National Football League for team sta - I predict that some day he will. Did I ing tirelessly of his time, love and place was Pat Dye. First, I went to his dium announcers. mention that Jerry Romig is one of the devotion for the betterment of the New locker room to congratulate him and I “The one official complaint that was funnier people on this planet? I used to Orleans Saints Football Club.” told him I was going to give the trophy made about me,” he says, “was that I serve on his script committee for the In November, Jerry reached out and to the Syracuse team because they had would wait until the opposing team New Orleans gridiron shows, and he grabbed 80 years old and celebrated 56 come the farthest distance. I told him broke the huddle on third down and I always came up with the funniest lines. years of forever together with the for - we would get a duplicate trophy for would pointedly say, with great empha - His best line, however, he spoke at the mer Janice Collins. Auburn, which we did. sis that it was third and four, or whatev - luncheon and it wasn’t funny, but it was “We knew each other as babies and “Then, I went to the Syracuse locker er the yardage, and it would, as I knew certainly memorable: he wants to be the all through our childhood,” says Jerry. room and they wouldn’t let me in. The it would, incite the crowd to make more Saints’ announcer “‘Till the day I die .” “When I was 19, I finally asked her for team was really angry and one of them noise. I had done that for years, but Jerry, we wish you “First downs” for a date because I wanted to make sure said, ‘We didn’t come here to play a tie, Tampa Bay head coach John gruden the rest of your life. First down and she liked football.” we came here to win or lose.’ I was made a specific complaint in writing, heaven to go. H In New Orleans, nobody doesn’t finally allowed in to give them their and the NFL sent a letter to the Saints know Jerry Romig. He’s a former trophy. A Syracuse radio station later citing that one instance. I was told that Ed Clancy is host of “Jefferson newspaper reporter, vice president and asked fans to send Dye the ugliest tie once the team breaks the huddle I was Journal” seen each week on Cox Cable program director of WDSu-TV, and the they could find, and he wound up get - not to say anything at all.” channel 6 in Jefferson Parish. Clancy founding president and general manag - ting more than 2,000 ties in the mail. Jerry the Scamp . can be reached via email at er of WLAE-TV under Archbishop The Auburn fans sent bunches of sour At this point, I suppose, I should [email protected] . H Community Kenner Citizen’s Police Academy class begins in February Class 23 of the Kenner Citizens’ Police quarters and the jail and participate in a the community in improving safety and tunity to volunteer and assist the KPD in Academy will begin on Tuesday, ride along with a police officer. A gradu - promoting confidence in and support for its mission. February 23 at 6:30 p.m. at the Kenner ation ceremony is held for students upon the Kenner Police Department. Alumni To fill out an application visit the Police Complex located at 500 Veterans completion of the program. members can also volunteer their assis - Kenner Police Department website at Boulevard. Kenner Police Chief Steve graduates of the program receive the tance at various department events. www.kennerpd.com . For more informa - Caraway and the Kenner Police opportunity to join the Kenner Citizens’ graduates may also apply for entry into tion contact the KPD Community Department encourage citizens to partic - Academy Alumni Association the KPD Community Police Corps. This Relations Division at 712-2294 or email ipate in this unique opportunity to learn (KCPAAA), through which they can lead great program gives members the oppor - [email protected]. H more about police operations. Students attend free classes one night per week for 13 weeks, taught by trained police officers certified in their fields. The academy provides detailed coverage about how the police department works in the areas of: patrol division functions, crime prevention, criminal investiga - tions, computer forensics, K-9 unit, crime scene procedures, criminal and domestic violence laws, court proce - dures, narcotics investigations, traffic enforcement, physical fitness, use of police force and self-defense, gang awareness and S.W.A.T. Students receive a tour of police head - 26 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R

H Latin American News Medicare Part D By RAFAEL E. SAddY Changes in the While all Medicare beneficiaries can plan the “open season” runs from Security at 1-800-772-1213 to apply over law could make participate in the prescription drug pro - November 15 to December 31 of each the phone or request an application or more people eligi - gram, some people with limited income year. apply in person at your local Social ble for extra help and resources also are eligible for “extra To figure out whether you are eligible Security office. The Spanish language in 2010. The Medicare Part D prescription help” to pay for monthly premiums, annu - for the extra help, Social Security needs to website is www.ssa.gov/espanol . There drug program is available to all Medicare al deductibles and prescription co-pay - know your income and the value of any you will see the SSA homepage where beneficiaries to help with the costs of med - ments. The extra help is worth an average savings, investments and real estate (other you can click in a green box which ications. Joining a Medicare prescription of $3,900 per year. than the home you live in). To qualify in explains all about the benefit. drug plan is voluntary and participants pay For newly eligible Medicare beneficiar - 2009 you must be receiving Medicare and Community announcements an additional monthly premium for the ies and current beneficiaries who are con - also have income limited to $16,245 for an Comite Emergencia El Salvador coverage. sidering changes to their Medicare Part D individual or $21,855 for a married couple (CESAL): Last October 27, 2009, living together. Even if your annual Hurricane Ida created devastation in El income is higher you still may be able to Salvador. More than 160 people died and DON’T THINK DIGGING IN get some help with monthly premiums, over 300 homes were destroyed, leaving annual deductibles and prescription co- more than 14,000 people without homes THE DIRT IS RIGHT FOR YOU? payments. Effective January 1, 2010, and in refuge camps. There is an immedi - Medicare will no longer count as income ate need for medications, non-perishable LET US AT what you receive regularly from someone food, sleeping mats and building materials LYNNE DIMM’S NURSERY, LLC to help pay for household expenses such to help the victims in the reconstruction give your house a face lift. as food, mortgage, rent, electricity/gas, process. Monetary donations can be water or property taxes. In 2009, you must deposited at Chase Bank in account num - Renovate your curb appeal using, colorful flowers, leafy green trees, natural mulches and sweet smelling shrubs. also have resources limited to $12,510 for ber 855713434. Donations of bulk or non- an individual or $25,010 for a married perishable food, medicine and construc - Call Lynne at 468-5467 today! couple living together. Resources include tion materials can be made through such things as bank accounts, stocks and Freddy Rivas, the committee’s president. 34 years experience – licensed & insured bonds. Medicare does not count your For more information please call 834- We do weeding, trimming and colorful bedding plants. house or your car, and beginning January 2020. 27 West 27th Street • Kenner, LA 1, 2010, Medicare will not count any life I leave you with this thought: “Real gen - HOURS: M-F 8-3 • SAT 9-12 • SUN By Appt. insurance policies as a resource. erosity is doing something nice for some - If the changes regarding household one who’ll never find out!” H financial help and life insurance will help Regular retirement you become eligible, you have to wait Rafael E. Saddy is president of the Latin until January 1 to apply for “Extra Help.” American Civic Association of Louisiana income – guaranteed It is easy to apply for “Extra Help.” There (LACAL). Email Saddy at Variable annuities feature guaranteed minimum income payments are three methods. Complete the online [email protected]. and are great for padding your retirement portfolio with a reliable the Social Security’s Application for Extra Correspondence for LACAL can be sent to income stream without missing out on potential investment returns. Help with Medicare Prescription Drug P.O. Box 640284, Kenner, LA 70064- Call today to find out more about variable annuities or to discuss any Plan Costs (SSA-1020), call the Social 0284. aspect of your retirement and investment strategies. Variable annuities are long-term investments suitable for retirement funding and are subject to market fluctuations and investment risk. H Community Guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Guarantees apply to minimum income from an annuity; they do not guarantee an investment return or the safety of the underlying funds. The late Al Copeland’s famous John Prevost • First Vice President – Investments Christmas display called “Holiday 111 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 1800 • Metairie, LA 70005 504-834-2663 • [email protected] in the Park” to illuminate Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Members SIPC. ©2009 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved. 0909-1925 [80873-v1] 9/09 Lafreniere Park After 35 years of displaying Al To further culminate this holiday, the Copeland’s Christmas lights at his Copeland family will be hosting a Metairie home, the Copeland family “Christmas Happily Ever After” gala would like to invite the community to on Saturday, December 12, 2009. join them as they unveil Al Copeland’s Admission is $100 and all proceeds go famous Christmas lights at Lafreniere to The Al Copeland Foundation for Edward Nikolaus, Jr. Park on Friday, December 4, 2009 at Cancer Research. To purchase tickets, Owner 5:30 p.m. In addition to the symbolic call 620-3727 or visit www.alcopeland - lighting ceremony, there will be foundation.org. Christmas carols and performances Lafreniere Park is located at 3000 from local dance teams. Admission is Downs Boulevard in Metairie. free. Al Copeland Sr. passed away in 2008 For the duration of the display, to Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare and December 4, 2009 until January 6, deadly form of cancer. To honor his Over 25 Years Experience • Works With Any Insurance Company • Lifetime Warranty 2020, Downs Boulevard, from the legacy, his family created the Al WORLD CLASS COLLISION AND DETAIL CENTER entrance to the exit of Lafreniere Park, Copeland Foundation, a non-profit will be renamed Al Copeland organization dedicated to cancer 2835 Virginia Street • Kenner • 467-7775 Boulevard in his honor. research. H KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 27

Additional funds (continued from page 1) keep property taxes revenue neutral and department. He is comparing our fees and can save money and bringing in other ed, aging sewerage system, require an wound up rolling them back too far, by fines with those of other cities and parish - operations in-house – again, where sav - immediate “infusion of cash – especially if 1.4 mills. Now I am asking the council es to see if they are comparable or can be ings and greater efficiency were realized. we expect to continue city services at their to reinstate the 1.4 mills.” adjusted. We also should think about possi - The savings have been many. Thank god current levels and minimize employee lay - The mayor contends that Kenner bly reinstating some of the fees that have we were able to save that money, because offs.” depends too much on fluctuating sales been reduced in past years, such as the I would hate to think where the national Muniz said the difficult times that beset taxes and he is proposing that the Council brake tag fee.” recession would have left us if we had not Kenner are not unique in the economic approve a referendum which would give After the mayor’s speech economized,” said Muniz. slowdown. He said that the cities of voters the opportunity to choose adding 5.5 Councilwoman Maria DeFrancesch said, Continued Muniz, “My administration Harahan, Westwego and gretna, along mills to their property tax formula of which “Before making a decision, we need to looked for and has found many ways to with the Jefferson Parish Council, all face 3 mills will be used to fund the police, 2 determine exactly what revenue the city cut costs since July, 2006. (See accompa - economic shortfalls that could cause mills would be dedicated to the fire depart - needs to survive the sales tax downturn. I nying box.) We continue to seek ways to severe cuts in government and layoffs. ment and one-half mill will go into the am doing my h omework to determine that operate this city more efficiently, but for a Muniz said that is why he is calling on city’s general fund. Muniz is also propos - and also insure that the police and fire city that depends so much on sales taxes the City Council to take action. “For those ing the council approve a sewer surcharge departments remain adequately funded for which have been falling for the last 17 who own homes and businesses in that will cost approximately $3 per proper - the safety of our citizens.” months, we have to find a more stable rev - Kenner, we owe it to them to help protect ty owner and will be used to pay for a Councilwoman-at-Large Jeannie Black enue source. Here’s the reality. Sales taxes their investments. The point here is that rebuilding of the city’s sewerage system explained, “Our two life-saving entities, amounted to $3,006,984 in July, 2007. A Kenner needs strong support from its peo - that is in serious trouble and could cost the Kenner Police and Fire Departments year later, sales tax revenues dropped to ple and its business community to not only more than $50 million. need to be funded in a more stabilized $2,817,225 (down 6.3 percent). By July, carry the city through these hard times but Muniz explaining the sewerage situation manner. We really need to find a way to 2009, sales tax revenues decreased to to help put in place a dedicated tax plan saying, “In the last two years this adminis - correct this as soon as possible. My mind $2,526,564 (down 10.32 percent). Since that will protect police and fire services in tration, with the help of the Louisiana is not closed about exploring any options property values fluctuate much less than the future, cure 40 years of neglect in our Department of Environmental Quality, for - that could work to help the city’s financial retail sales, dedicated revenues based on sewerage system, free ourselves from the mulated a package to renovate Kenner’s situation. There is still a lot of discussion property taxes offer far greater stability state’s administrative order and provide sewerage system of 79 lift stations and 391 that will occur before such time as we and a higher degree of manageability for for continued maintenance of our streets, miles of sewerage mains with a $22 mil - need to make any decision and I will keep local governments.” medians and quality of life services. We lion loan at an interest rate of less than one an open mind.” The mayor said that Kenner’s safety cannot be like the Roman emperor Nero percent. Paying this loan back will require Currently there is no property tax mill - services, like the police department and and fiddle while Kenner is burning,” said an increase in sewerage fees. The choice age dedicated and collected to fund the the fire department and the long-neglect - Muniz. H DEQ gave us is to fix a system that was Kenner Police Department. Of the 5.5 ignored for 40 years or incur federal and mills that the mayor has said he will pro - state fines that could amount to the cost of pose for the council to put in the form of a repairs. And then we would still have to do referendum for voters to approve or disap - the fix. According to DEQ’s compliance prove, three mills would go to the police order, Kenner can be ordered to begin the department, two to fire department and fix immediately or cease discharging its one-half mill to the general fund. Each sewerage effluent into any state waterway. mill is about $480,000, so $1,440,000 If Kenner does nothing, the city can be would be generated and dedicated for the Attention Business Owners fined $27,500 a day for every day the vio - police department, $960,000 for the fire lations continue. Sewerage charges were department and $240,000 for the general Be An Achiever! last increased in the early 1980s – what fund. If a referendum is approved by the • Generate Solid Leads • Learn Leadership Skills have you been able to buy today at prices council, Kenner voters would face the • Be A Confident Public Speaker • Improve Profitability that were in effect 25 years ago?” option to add the 5.5 mills in the March Said Muniz, “When I became mayor in 27, 2010 election, which is also the same The Executive Achievers Association meets bi-weekly for breakfast 2006, I realized that as a foundation for day they will vote for all citywide seats, Thursday, December 3 and 17, at 7:00 a.m. dependable city revenues, sales taxes are which includes mayor, police chief and all at Messina’s Catering, 2717 Williams Blvd ., Kenner too volatile. I said Kenner needed a mix of seven council seats. Time constraints for dedicated property tax millages that can be getting the referendum on the ballot, and, THE EXECUTIVE ACHIEVERS ASSOCIATION a cushion against the volatility of sales if passed, putting it into action, require Call Randy Lovitt at 504-836-7136 for more information on becoming a member. taxes, and service charges linked to the immediate action by the City Council. actual use of services by citizens.” Property tax bills are paid at the end of the The mayor’s speech was greeted with year, so if the millage Muniz is saying he doubts by a majority of the four members will propose is passed by voters in March KENNER ORTHOPEDIC & SPORTS THERAPY of the City Council who were present at the 2010, the money still won’t be collected Crown Plaza Hotel. Councilwoman-at- until the end of 2010. And that is the best- 3921 WILLIAMS BLVD. Large Jeannie Black, District 2 case time scenario for this revenue infu - KENNER, LA 70065 Councilman Joe Stagni, District 3 sion which will still cause serious financial 504-443-5152 Councilman Ben Zahn and District 4 problems in the interim. If the referendum Councilwoman Maria DeFrancesch all had is not passed by the council and voters, the questions about moving forward on mayor then asks, “Can Kenner afford to increasing costs to Kenner residents now. hang on another year?” Said Councilman Stagni. “Our citizens In his speech, Mayor Muniz also talked are already struggling in this terrible econ - about some of the good things that are omy, and if they have to figure how to happening in the Kenner economy, includ - make ends meet our government should do ing renovation work on A-1 Appliances, a the same. It is premature to ask for new Days Inn motel, three new restaurants in property taxes without having explored all the city, a large new self-service storage the alternatives. This may be the perfect firm as well as two new pharmacies open - opportunity to change our budgetary ings in the city. Muniz also noted that the process to a more priority-based system.” Jefferson Parish School Board is propos - Councilman Zahn said, “I think we need ing to build a large state-of-the-art magnet KENNER’S ONLY CHOICE FOR ORTHOPEDIC PHYSICAL THERAPY to tighten our belt more. And before we school in the city. THERE IS A DIFFERENCE!!!! take any further action we should wait for Muniz said, “We have streamlined gov - the return of an in-house study that is cur - ernment by consolidation and reorganiza - rently underway by Department Director tion the city’s departments, out-sourcing Se habla Español METAIRIE & WESTBANK LOCATIONS Keith Chiro in our code enforcement services to private contractors where we 28 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R

Kenner Mayor Muniz KPBA November 17, 2009 state-of-the-city speech highlights on changes his administration has instituted.

FINANCIAL City’s computer system was upgraded Working with the Jefferson Parish Community development mounted an and fiber optic lines are in place that Chamber of Commerce and JEDCO extremely successful first-time home Cut $200,000 from the cost of legal for the first time will link all the city’s to enhance economic development, buyers program using $687,000 in services by eliminating legal retainer computers for faster and more reliable including the hiring of a fulltime federal HOME funds to help put 14 fees and bringing the city attorney communications. associate to represent Kenner at families in homes of their own. operation in-house. All the legal JEDCO. department lawyers now work for the Creation of Heritage Hall reception city 24/7 and are available whenever center in Rivertown. needed. Renegotiated the city’s contract with Rivertown Repertory Theatre resulted Creation of an economic development in savings of $60,000 to $70,000 a committee to advise the mayor and year. recommend economic projects for Successful Music in the Park free The Public Information Office was implementation. concerts in Rivertown during the also moved in-house at an annual sav - spring – drawing its largest crowd ings of $180,000. ever on June 6. IMPROVEMENTS Cooperation with The Esplanade mall A new digital two-way radio commu - for the return of Macy’s and develop - Eliminating 70 jobs from the budget nication system linking Kenner, ment of theaters, restaurants and a Improvements at the Kenner Pavilion by focusing on doing more with the Jefferson Parish, the state and other new anchor store. Macy’s is back and and lagoon in Kenner City Park and resources on hand. 40 jobs are already government agencies in times of dis - the other projects are in various stages the addition of a new terrace and gar - gone. Remaining 30 are being phased aster. of development. den behind the pavilion. out of the current fiscal budget.

A unified 9-1-1 dispatch center for Created the position of an in-house Achieved a cooperative relationship Park ‘n Ride service had become a fire and police. grant administrator whose efforts have with Louis Armstrong International burden on the city and it was phased so far generated $836,000 in addition - Airport and the New Orleans Aviation out more than a year ago at an annual al revenues for the city. Board and worked with them to estab - savings of $85,000. lish a four-lane access to the airport’s A computerized SCADA system that north side via Aberdeen Street. When monitors all the city’s sewerage sta - completed, Aberdeen will link to I-10 tions and treatment plant around the Finance department began performing via a widened portion of Veterans The welcome center on Loyola Drive clock. annual audit prep work in-house for a Boulevard in the near future and and I-10, over a year ago, was elimi - savings of $100,000 a year. result in renewed development of the nated and the salaries saved in that area between the airport and I-10. move allowed the hiring of three A fully operational emergency plan more code enforcement inspectors to covering hurricanes, tornados, freeze conduct the sweeps which greatly Adoption of the Pattern for Progress, and snow events, nuclear accidents at reduced the litter and blight problems a citywide land use plan, the Third ground was broken for a new, high Waterford III and (in cooperation with in Kenner neighborhoods. Street corridor improvement plan and tech fire station at the airport, the first Jefferson Parish) medical pandemics. the Laketown development plan. of $350 million worth of improve - ments at the airport over the next four years to benefit the air traveler. For New city-owned phone system link - Hundreds of new trees planted Kenner, it will mean 6,800 good new ing all city government buildings was Implemented civil service system for throughout the city. jobs to build and staff a modern car installed and maintained in-house, city employees and completed a first- rental facility, an on-campus hotel, a saving $50,000 a year from the cost ever professional survey that codified new airline concourse and other proj - of a leased system. and modernized the employee pay plan. ects.

H Community

KPD to hold annual “Doll and Toy Fund” giveaway

The Kenner Police Department and to help fulfill the Christmas will hold their annual “Doll and Toy wishes of deserving children. To Fund” giveaway on December 16. register underprivileged children Each year, the Kenner Police living in Kenner, ages eight and Department presents Christmas under, contact the KPD Community gifts to underprivileged children. Relations Division at 712-2294 or The Doll and Toy Fund was 712-2300 no later than December designed to support such gift-giving 11, 2009. H KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 29 Laketown Village

Williams Boulevard between Vintage Drive and Joe Yenni Boulevard

26 Years Experience

By Appointment 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Mon. – Sat. INFANTS TO TEENS • SPECIAL KIDS WELCOME 4232 Williams Blvd. Suite 102 • 464-0624 Victoria A.M. Smith, M.D.

NOW IN ACK Think Jazzercise was the B ER KENN workout of the 80s?

– Cheryl Burke Think again. Two-time Champion Family Practice Dancin with the Stars Men • Women • Children % Female Care • Pap Smears Valid5 at pa0 rticipating loOcations.F JoinFing fee aAnd otheLr restLriction s mFay aEpply. ExpiresS 12/31/09 Se habla español Contraception fala-se português

Kenner Jazzercise Center Office Hours by Appointment 4228 Williams Blvd., Ste. 205 • (Between Vintage and the Lake) 4228 Williams Blvd., Suite 203 • 496-0138 or 889-4011 464 -4600 • www.jazzercise.com 30 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R

Fleet management department (continued from page 1) fleet.” Vitellero said the city is trying outstanding mechanics under program for each category of tric generators, the city’s fuel Vitellaro said Kenner’s fleet to keep costs down by more the command of a director who vehicles, from our lawnmow - depot and fuel management, includes lawnmowers, tractors, creative use of motor vehicles. was also an expert in vehicle ers to our heavy trucks. As it’s and established a “wet fleet” of truck and automobiles. For example, workers are sent maintenance would be a signif - turned out, they’re one of our specially adapted motor vehi - More than 190 of them are into the field aboard trucks icant improvement over past departments with the highest- cles the city can use to quickly four years or older. Vitellaro with crew cabs instead of sepa - practices. morale and I think it’s because respond during flood events acknowledged that during the rate vehicles. “Ronnie has a team of seven they are guys who love what resulting from hurricanes, hard economic times it is very But Chief Administrative who live and breathe vehicle they do and they happen to do extremely heavy rains and the costly trying to maintain an Officer Mike yenni said Mayor maintenance,” said yenni. it very well.” like. aging fleet. In the past, each Muniz concluded after talking “They keep tabs on each vehi - More recently, fleet manage - Vitellaro says that’s why department was responsible for to experts that a fleet manage - cle’s mileage and have devel - ment has also taken over the fleet maintenance programs the vehicles assigned to it. ment program which included oped a preventive maintenance maintenance and repair of elec - work so well in both the public and private sectors. “For guys who love to work on a wide range of vehicles and keep them in peak condition, this is really a great job,” he says. “Of course, it’s nice lagniappe that in doing our work, we also save Kenner thousands of dol - lars each year.” H

Crouere (continued from page 5) Nagin in the run-off and was a major factor in helping Nagin achieve victory. Couhig is con - sidered a long shot because of Unlimited calling to any 10 numbers. Anywhere in America. Anytime. his connection to the gOP and lingering resentment over his controversial endorsement of Get the best value in wireless. Nagin. In contrast, Eddie Sapir could be a major player in the numbers to share on any Nationwide Family Choose 1 0 SharePlan® with 1400 Anytime Minutes or more. race with a real chance to win. Sapir is a white Democrat who numbers on any Nationwide Single Line Plan Choose 5 with 900 Anytime Minutes or more. is well liked in the African Activation fees, taxes & other charges apply.* American community. He has CChoosehoose anyany numbersnumbers onon anyany network.network. EvenEven landlines.landlines. won citywide races before and ChangeChange youryour numbersnumbers onlineonline anytime!anytime! is a skilled politician. His major problem might be fundraising, although he has been traveling across the country in recent weeks raising money for the race. Sapir has high name recog - nition and does not need to enter the campaign early, as he is already an established political figure. At this point, the chances are that he will enter the race during qualifying and make an already interesting race that Exclusive BlackBerry® Offer! Our best Samsung phones. much more exciting to watch. H Buy a BlackBerry Storm™, get any Samsung Sway™ BlackBerry Smartphone FREE! after mail-in Jeff Crouere is a native of $99.99 2-year retail price - $100.00 mail-in rebate debit card $19.99 rebate d ebit card With new 2-yr activation on a voice plan with email BlackBerry Pearl™ New Orleans and his Louisiana feature, or email plan. BlackBerry 8830 $69.99 2-year retail price - $50.00 mail-in rebate debit card BlackBerry Curve™ based television program, BlackBerry Storm With new 2 year activation. “Ringside Politics,” airs at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and at 10:00 p.m. Sundays on PBS television 4041 Williams Blvd B7 1201 Je# erson Hwy B 517 Metairie Rd. Suite station WLAE-TV, Channel 32, Kenner,LA 70065 Je# erson, LA 70121 200 (504)-466-8488 (504)267-0501 Metairie, LA 70005 and from 7:00 a.m. until 11:00 (504)302-1464 a.m. weekedays on radio station 900 WGSO 990 AM in New Orleans and the north shore. Crouere is AMERICA’S LARGEST AND MOST RELIABLE WIRELESS NETWORK a political analyst for WGNO- TV ABC26. Visit Crouere’s web - *Our Surcharges (incl. Fed. Univ. Svc. of 12.9% of interstate & int’l telecom charges (varies quarterly), 7¢ Regulatory & 92¢ A dministrative/line/mo. & others by area) are not taxes (details: 1-888-684-1888); gov’t taxes & our surcharges could add 5%–37% to your bill. Activation fee/line: $35 ($25 for secondary Family SharePlan lines w/ 2-yr. Agmts). IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: Subject to Customer Agmt, Callin g Plan & credit approval. Up to $175 early termination fee, up to 40¢/min after allowance & add’l charges apply for data sent o r received (incl. Mobile site at www.ringsidepolitics.com Web ads). Friends & Family: Only domestic landline or wireless numbers (other than directory assistance, 900 numbers or custome r’s own wireless or Voice Mail access numbers) may be added; all qualifying lines on an account share the same Friends & Family numbers, up to account’s eligibility limits; My Verizon required to set up and manage Friends & Family numbers. BlackBerry, RIM, Research In Motion, Sur eType® and related trademarks, names and logos are the property of Research In Motion Limited and are registered and/or used in the U.S. and countries or email Crouere at around the world. Device capabilities: Add’l charges & conditions apply. Offers & coverage, varying by service, not available e verywhere. Network details & coverage maps at verizonwireless.com. Rebate debit card takes up to 6 weeks & expires in 12 months . © 2009 Verizon Wireless. [email protected]. KENNER ST H R dECEMBER 2009 31

2020 Fourth Street • Kenner, LA 70062 Join us on a 3,000 mile journey in search of the Big Five… the elephant, the Cape buffalo, the rhino, the leopard and the lion! Never before has wildlife been seen with such Sat. December 5th realism on the giant screen! 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM TUES-SAT. • 11:00 A.M., 1:00 P.M. & 4:00 P.M.

303 Williams Blvd LASER HOLIDAYS Indoor/Outdoor Booths Children and adults alike will surely find the holiday spirit in this spectacular laser- filled presentation of seasonal holiday music! Selections range from the classics of Nat King Cole to the modern melodies of Mariah Carey! TUES-SAT. • NOON AND 3:00 P.M. Kenner’s Christmas Village Veterans Park, 1801 Williams Blvd., next to City Hall

501 Williams Blvd., Rivertown • Kenner, LA 70062 Performances by local school groups, dancers, bands & choirs December 2009 • Happy Holidays! Storytelling, Food Vendors, December 5 December 19 Porta Puppet Players present THE FAIRY GODMOTHER Santa Pictures, Holiday Characters “THE TOYMAKER’S HELPER” presents “MRS. CLAUS’ NORTH POLE MAGIC” OPEN: FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. December 12 December 26 & January 2 through December 19 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA CASTLE CLOSED KENNER COMMUNITY SERVICE 468-7293 SATURDAYS ONLY • 11:30 A.M. • $5.00 PER PERSON

 HHEERREE CCOOMMEESS SSAANNTTAA CCLLAAUUSS!!

He’s making a list and checking it twice; have you been

naughty or have you been nice?

Chat with Santa over breakfast; make memories, and more in Kenner’s Rivertown! x Donuts and Beverages x Photos with Santa (bring your own camera) x Visit with Santa and Mrs .Claus

x Children s Castle Show ’ Ǥ Calliope Puppets present

… TEDDY BEAR TALES

th Special Event Admission: Saturday, December 12

Rivertown Exhibition Hall $10.00 per person (2yearsandup)

415 Williams Boulevard

10:00 am $5.00 per child (Under2years)

Sponsored by The City of Kenner & The Friends of Rivertown

For reservations: (504) 468-7231  

For More Information on any Rivertown Event, please call 504-468-7231 or visit: www.rivertownkenner.com 32 dECEMBER 2009 KENNER ST H R

P.O. Box 641654 • Kenner, Louisiana 70064 PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID KENNER, LA PERMIT NO. 49

Kenner’s Monthly Community Newspaper December 2009