VOL. 17, NO. 10 KENNER’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SINCE 1991 OCTOBER 2008

Leased generators keep Kenner gets serious scares from Gustav, Ike Kenner to raise funds Kenner’s lift stations but damage is minimal and cooperation for Gustav, Ike relief working, help city within government is unprecedented in lower Jefferson avoid flooding By ALLAN KATZ ernment are pleased by their response and Concert to benefit Grand Isle By ALLAN KATZ cooperation that linked city government, With fervent prayers that the worst of the Kenner Police Department, the New For years, Councilwoman-at-Large the hurricane season is over, Kenner resi- Kenner Fire Department and the emer- Orleans Soul Jeannie Black has been telling anyone dents are cleaning up after Hurricanes gency medical services technicians Queen and who would listen that Kenner’s chron- Gustav and Ike, glad that East Jefferson together as a single unified team. Grammy win- ic flooding problems could be signifi- has not received any direct hits. “We thought that we really made some ner Irma cantly reduced if the city had genera- At the same time, officials within gov- important advances in governmental Thomas will tors that could keep the 79 lift stations cooperation this hurricane season,” said headline a “Hurricane functioning during period of high Emile Lafourcade, Kenner’s public infor- Survivors winds and heavy rain. mation officer. “For the first time, we had Party” in Irma Thomas During the last two years, everyone together in the police complex. Kenner’s Laketown on Saturday, Councilwoman Black has been joined Police Chief Steve Caraway and his team did a great job of making everyone com- October 18, for the benefit of first by District 3 Councilman Ben Zahn. responders in lower Jefferson Parish fortable. We all worked together well. Black formerly was a district council- who suffered damages from Hurricanes Mayor Muniz and Chief Caraway kept woman for District 3, where much of Gustav and Ike. the city’s flooding occurs. continued on page 27 Sponsored by the non-profit Kenner Prior to the 2008 hurricane season, Convention and Visitors Bureau and in Black and Zahn finally got the agree- partnership with the city of Kenner and ment of Mayor Ed Muniz’s adminis- Hurricanes Gustav and Ike threatened, Jefferson Parish, Kenner Mayor Ed tration and their colleagues on the but East Jefferson levees held firm Muniz said the event has the support of Kenner City Council. residents, businesses and Kenner By ALLAN KATZ and were not a flood threat to homes or “It turned out that the cost of pur- police and firemen. businesses,” she said. chasing generators was more than our The concert will get underway at The executive director of the East Campbell said she was worried when budget could manage, but with the continued on page 27 help and agreement of Public Works Jefferson Levee District says that while the Saturday night Hurricane Gustav Director Prat Reddy we found the Hurricanes Gustav and Ike saturated the forecast predicted high levels of water in Jefferson Parish provides three-year funds to underwrite the lease of gener- levees that protect East Jefferson, the lev- Lake Pontchartrain. “We were very con- ees were not in jeopardy of breaching or cerned that the East Jefferson levees comprehensive storm protection ators so that most of our lift stations update online could have the power to stay on-line overtopping. would be severely impacted. Over night during Hurricanes Gustav and Ike,” Fran Campbell said her agency the hurricane veered to the west and our Jefferson Parish recently published a Jefferson Parish Post said Zahn. “Everyone seems to agree received numerous calls from the city of area was not devastated. However, brochure entitled Katrina Flood Protection Plan Update 3 that the flooding this hurricane season Kenner relaying residents’ concerns Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes and Years Later has been minimized, thank goodness.” regarding water seeping through the West other areas like the West Bank of , which details the progress Emile Lafourcade, Kenner’s public Return Floodwall. “The minor leaks that that various governmental agencies information officer, said that because were reported were normal joint seepage continued on page 26 have accomplished to better protect the of the leased generators, 60 percent of Committee to consider sale of airport to state taking shape parish from storms since Hurricane the city’s 79 lift stations operated by Katrina. Veolia Water continued to operate dur- By ALLAN KATZ “My understanding is that officials in “This brochure provides a progress ing high winds and heavy rains, reduc- Jefferson, St. Charles Parish and the report on projects that are now complet- ing the outflow of waters in Kenner The names of all those who will serve city of Kenner have now submitted their ed, under construction, being designed canals that usually overflow, causing on the nine-member Southeast Regional recommendations to Governor Jindal,” or planned for the future to ensure what in the past has been regarded as Airport Authority that will consider the said Jim Hudson, president of Omni Jefferson Parish is a safe place to live,” inevitable flooding in some neighbor- sale of the Louis Armstrong New Bank and the nominee of Broussard. writes Parish President Aaron Broussard hoods. Veolia Water is a private con- Orleans International Airport to the Among those naming members of the in a letter preceding the report. Topics in tractor for the city that provides day to state will soon be released, says a authority is Kenner Mayor Ed Muniz the brochure include lists of authorized day maintenance of the sewer system, Jefferson Parish bank executive who who has selected engineer Debbie projects that need immediate funding has been named to the panel by Parish Settoon to represent the city. Mayor and the status of projects currently continued on page 26 President Aaron Broussard. Muniz additionally gets to recommend underway. Some projects described three other individuals, of whom directly impact Kenner, such as a new Governor Jindal will pick one. Muniz’ “pump-to-river” station to help drain the list of three includes Jules Corona, CEO Kenner basin and the installation of a of Crown Title Inc., Glenn Hayes, pres- floodgate on Airline Highway at the St. ident of the Jefferson Chamber of Charles Parish line. Commerce and Dominick Impastato III, The report is available for viewing on an attorney. the Jefferson Parish website at www.jeff- Sewerage lift station located on 42nd St. Charles Parish President V.J. St. parish.net/downloads/3753/6386- Street between Janice Avenue and Pierre has named Ama resident Carl KatrinaFloodProtectionUpdate3YearsL Erlanger Road. ater.pdf.★ continued on page 26 2 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R KENNER ST★R OCTOBER 2008 3

“ My first thought

Bobby Lusco when I was CANCER SURVIVOR diagnosed – my grandkids.”

For Bobby Lusco, winning his battle with cancer was all about having more time to spend at his camp in Mississippi with his grandchildren. Accessing quality care without having to travel to Houston meant his friends and family could provide much needed support while he fought the battle of his life. Through affiliation with M. D. Anderson Physician’s Network, East Jefferson General Hospital patients can receive the latest evidence-based treatment protocols from the nation’s leading cancer fighting center. Cancer free, Bobby is looking forward to many years with those who inspired him when he needed it most.

Call 504-456-5000 or visit us online for credentialed physicians and more information. www.ejgh.org/cancercare

Affiliated with

East Jefferson General Hospital

Because no one fights cancer alone. 4 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R

ADMISSION Adults: $6 per show • Children/Seniors: $5 per show • Multi-show packages available Children: 2-14 years • Seniors: 60 and over For group reservations, please contact Pat: 468-7231 SHOW SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE!

Fright Light There are no tricks, but plenty of treats in this “frightfully” enter- A radio announcement... taining laser light show! Back by popular de- an excited phone call... Narrated by Star Trek’s Kate Mulgrew (Captain mand, Fright Light is a “monster” of a show and our sly gumshoe, Janeway). The Planets provides a spectacular tour and promises to thrill audiences of all ages Skye Watcher is on the case! of our Solar System and beyond! Witness the for- with a medley of fun Halloween-themed tunes Join the investigation as Skye discovers mation of our Solar System, explore the planets and laser animations. Musical selections in- what happened to Pluto. Track down clues and their moons, and search the night sky for dis- clude Thriller, Monster Mash, Men in Black, that stretch back hundreds of years as you tant stars, nebulae, and galaxies. Audiences will Purple People Eater and Iron Man look into the changing status of planets in be amazed by the stunning imagery and up close among many others. See com- our Solar System! views of The Planets! plete playlist below.

Running time: 30 minutes Running time: 40 minutes Running time: 50 minutes

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Tuesday - Saturday 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 4:00 PM KENNER ST★R OCTOBER 2008 5 ★ From the Editor Hurricane season cooperation in Kenner is just outstanding By ALLAN KATZ When hurri- in Kenner. The answer is that it wasn’t for every lift station, the budget did stop 120-mile-an-hour winds and a 20- canes are in the that long ago that we had a previous allow them to lease generators to keep foot storm surge. At the same time, Gulf of Mexico, mayor and a previous police chief who the lift stations operating during high Kenner residents who have seen it both no one watches didn’t speak to each other. During winds and water. This year, during ways will surely tell you that the city’s the five-day cones indicating possible Hurricane Katrina, the mayor’s team Gustav, more than 60 percent of the chances are a lot better when the landfalls with more concern or agoniz- operated out of a hotel and the police city’s lift stations were working. The mayor’s team, the police team, the fire- ing than Mayor Ed Muniz. chief’s team operated out of the police Muniz administration says with pride fighting team and the EMS team are all “I was really worried about Hurricane complex. and relief that only three buildings on the same page. Gustav,” he said. “Every time it veered The spirit of cooperation that now flooded in Kenner this time and just one Special kudos go also the Kenner this way or that, my heart was in my exists in Kenner goes beyond the of the three was a residence. police officers who were actually out in throat. There were moments when I mayor’s office and the Police Again in the spirit of cooperation, the weather, along with their City Hall thought it was headed right for us.” Department. For years, Councilwoman- when an emergency plan study group colleagues from Public Works. These But, in the end, both Gustav and Ike at-large Jeannie Black has been saying was formed days after Muniz and are the men and women who are the veered away from Kenner, thank good- that one of the ways to prevent the Caraway took office, they discovered first to put their lives on the line. Those ness. In the wake of the storms – which flooding that has historically been previous funding provided for only two familiar with the excellent work being we might fervently pray mark the effec- chronic in some Kenner neighborhoods floors of the KPD Headquarters on done by the KPD will not be surprised tive end of our hurricane season – what is to provide generators for the city’s 79 Veterans Boulevard to be hooked up to to know that police officers made sev- impressed me the most is the way that lift stations. She is a former District 3 an existing generator. However the gen- eral arrests of individuals who deliber- the Muniz administration and Police councilwoman and she knows at first erator was capable of running all four ately stayed behind when almost every- Chief Steve Caraway virtually melded hand how devastating a flood that puts floors. The mayor and police chief pro- one evacuated so they could burglarize the City Hall and Police Department several feet of water – or even six inch- vided the monies to connect all four and loot. Hopefully, the Jefferson teams to become a single entity during es of water – in someone’s residence floors so more support people in the Parish district courts will level maxi- hurricane season. Also included in the can be. She has been joined in her cru- administration and KPD could be mobi- mum sentences against these individu- team were the Kenner firefighters and sade for generators by the current lized before, during and after storms als whose conduct could be likened to the emergency medical services techni- District 3 Councilman, Ben Zahn. and more equipment could be powered, that of vultures. cians. This time, Mayor Muniz, his Public resulting in a major improvement from No one likes to evacuate but we can They were all together in the KPD Works Administrative Officer Prat the past. all go, if we must, secure in the knowl- complex on Veterans Boulevard, work- Reddy and their colleagues on the City Now, the fact is that if fate had decid- edge that City Hall and the KPD are ing cooperatively side by side. Council all listened to and supported ed that Gustav would come bearing working as one team to keep Kenner So what’s the big deal about that, you Black and Zahn. While the city at this down on Kenner, there are certainly safe.★ might ask if you only recently arrived time could not afford to buy generators limits to what cooperation can do to ★ Political Review McCain and Obama will overlook Louisiana this fall October 2008 Vol. 17 No. 10 By JEFF CROUERE Kenner Star is a monthly newspaper and is distributed by direct mail free to all 20,700 registered voter households Despite the women were disappointed when Hillary enjoys a 50 to 43 percent advantage over in Kenner. An additional 2,000 copies are distributed in over 100 high traffic locations. intense political Clinton was overlooked for the vice pres- Obama in the Pelican State. An earlier Publisher love affair between idential position. Now, at least some Rasmussen poll gave McCain a 17 per- TROY BROUSSARD the national news women may get genuinely excited about cent lead over Obama. Most political ana- Editor media and Democratic presidential nomi- having the second woman in history and lysts now believe that Obama will basi- ALLAN KATZ nee Barack Obama, the race for president the first Republican being added to a cally concede the state’s nine electoral Managing Editor/Marketing Director is extremely close. Polls show a dead heat presidential ticket. votestoMcCain. CANDY LOVITT nationally or Obama with a very slim Despite a good start for Palin, the ini- McCain helped his cause in Louisiana Staff Writer/Editor TROY BROUSSARD lead. Hillary Clinton voters continue to tial hoopla eventually faded once the eco- even more by picking Palin as his run- Contributing Writers show some hesitation to support Obama. nomic crisis took center stage. Polls show ning mate. In particular, most Louisiana When Clinton was not chosen as that American voters are upset about the voters will approve of Palin because she GLENN DOTTOLO JEFF CROUERE LINDA R. MARTIN JIM MELCHERS Obama’s running mate, the anger among problems on Wall Street and are mostly is unabashedly pro-life, supports the KEN TRAHAN LYNNE DIMM some of her supporters only intensified. blaming the Republicans. The poor energy industry and offshore drilling and DAN DORMADY SHARON SOLOMON SEAN HUNTER ED CLANCY By overlooking Clinton and choosing Joe approval rating of President Bush contin- is an avid hunter and member of the RAFAEL E. SADDY SCOTT ZIMMERMAN Biden, Obama gave an opening to John ues to be an anchor weighing down the NRA. Some critics say that Palin does not JOEY CLEVELAND SMITA PATEL McCain to choose Sarah Palin. Biden has GOP ticket. have enough of a political background, KEITH M. DARCEY THOMAS R. LYONS RON HAMPTON STEVE CARAWAY done next to nothing for the Democratic The Republicans need to convince the but as a governor she brings some execu- YVETTE DUSSOUY CRAIG GOODWIN ticket, providing almost no positive American public that Obama and Biden tive experience to the ticket. It is a nice JOHN HELLMERS ED MUNIZ PAOLO ZAMBITO movement in the polls. In fact, Obama’s are out of the political mainstream. It contrast to Barack Obama and Joe Biden, Copy Editors VP pick selection has been mostly should not be an impossible task, for the two U.S. Senators with no executive MELISSA DRAKE panned since the Delaware Senator has National Journal, rated Barack Obama as experience. MONICA ZERINGUE made numerous verbal gaffes. the most liberal member of the U.S. Over the next few weeks, the candi- Account Manager On the Republican side, Palin has ener- Senate and Biden as the third most liber- dates will spend the vast majority of their BARBARA BELLACI gized the previously unenthused conser- al member. Since this ticket is so liberal time in key battleground states like Distribution Manager vative base of the party and given the and the American people are starting to Florida, Michigan and Ohio. Don’t DAVID SPAKO ticket a needed boost of support. focus on the election and the issues, expect to see Obama or McCain in Printing Conservative voters are attracted to Obama and Biden may be vulnerable, Louisiana unless the polls unexpectedly BATON ROUGE PRESS © 2008 Kenner Star, Inc. Palin’s reform credentials. As governor despite the anger voters feel toward Bush tighten. The state has only nine electoral All Rights Reserved of Alaska, Palin has been a fiscal conser- and the Republican Party. votes, so it will not be a big prize on KENNER STAR vative who has not been bashful about One thing is certain; Louisiana is a con- Election Day. P.O. Box 641654 • Kenner, LA 70064 Phone & Fax 468-9125 tangling with lobbyists or special inter- servative state and the Democratic ticket Still it is good news for McCain to be Email: [email protected] ests. will have a very difficult time competing leading in Louisiana, a bellwether state in The content of all theme-based columns, What really distinguishes the Palin in this state. National polls may be close, presidential elections. In White House written by respective professionals in this newspaper, is in no way intended to render advice, suggest a selection is that it will help the GOP tick- but in Louisiana McCain is clearly in the contests, Louisiana voters almost always course of action, or take the place of an individual consultation regarding that subject matter. et appeal to a broad cross section of lead. According to a recent survey by the favor the winning candidate. In fact, in women across the country. Millions of American Research Group, McCain continued on page 27 6 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R ★ Government Command Post worked well in first test By ED MUNIZ, Kenner Mayor Once Hurricane we could face serious damage from wind tive measures to safeguard city buildings town to document areas with and without Gustav entered the and water. and equipment, send heavy equipment to electric power, locations where sewerage Gulf of Mexico, it As Gustav began steadily racing in a staging areas and give essential employees lift stations needed generators and busi- was not immedi- northwesterly direction after passing over enough time to finalize storm preparations nesses that had reopened. This information ately obvious that South Louisiana and Cuba, we knew it was time to activate for their families and homes. At the time was provided on the city website. City Greater New Orleans would be its ultimate Kenner’s unified command post. My exec- the entire area was under an evacuation Hall and KPD headquarters lost electric target. I know that many computer models utive staff and all department heads were order. power and cable communications suggested Gustav would head our way; but called to a meeting at City Hall at 11:00 Our unified plan called for the city Monday, but continued to function with we remained optimistic that it would turn a.m. Saturday, August. 31, at which time it administration to join the Kenner Police generator power until Wednesday at City away from us as it crossed the gulf. was announced the unified command post Department in the fourth-floor auditorium Hall and Friday at KPD. It did, ever so slightly, turn westward would be activated at 6:00 p.m. Sunday. at KPD Headquarters. The room was Even with some systems down, techni- enough to make landfall west of Houma in In the meantime, directors and other divided by built-in movable partitions and cal and public information staff found Terrebonne Parish, but not far enough west essential employees were informed to special computer, radio, television and ways to get around the problems and issue to avoid full evacuation for our residents immediately begin preparations for telephone systems were energized to facil- 30 updates on activities in the city that and businesses or to eliminate concern that Gustav’s arrival, including taking protec- itate communications among city depart- were posted on the city’s web page at ments and among us, KPD, the parish www.kenner.la.us and read by residents EOC, and the outside world. who evacuated as far away as the West We had already been in regular contact Coast. So important were the timely with officials at Entergy, Cox updates that the website registered more Communications, AT&T and Veolia than 701,000 contacts during the nine-day Water, which operates the city sewerage storm period. The typical week has 1,500 system. Representatives from Entergy, visits. What could not be measured was the Veolia, the daily newspaper and WDSU- redistribution of the announcements by TV were imbedded at the Command Post. evacuees who forwarded them to other By nightfall Sunday all the pieces that Kenner family and friends who evacuated % are standard for a unified command post to to other parts of the country. meet the requirements of a FEMA The city also kept in touch with the pub- National Incident Management System lic via appearances on local radio talk 15 off (NIMS) fit together nicely. Everyone set- shows and TV news shows. Any Service • Wednesdays only tled in for continuous shifts of 12 hours on Meanwhile, my executive staff and I New clients only and 12 hours off. It would appear the time continued daily meetings with officials we invested for our emergency planners to from Veolia, Entergy and other utilities in Since 1985 receive training and FEMA certification efforts to assist them in restoring service to Open Tuesday through Friday 10 - 7, Saturday 9 - 4 701 W. Esplanade Avenue • 465-9590 Visit us at www.georgyssalonspa.com over the past two years has paid off. It residents and businesses. However, some would be quite an understatement to say utility restoration had to wait until dam- Gustav treated Kenner very kindly. We are ages to lines and substations were identi- all grateful that he did. fied and safely repaired. Storm passes, recovery begins All these activities proved that a unified However, Gustav provided a serious test command post was a positive benefit for – a “tabletop exercise” in real time – of our the city. Police Chief Steve Caraway said unified plan. As Gustav passed the edge of he was satisfied with the virtually seamless our area on Monday, everyone was con- outcome and was pleased with the smooth nected, all concerned cooperated and were cooperation between the administration ready to move into action once it was safe and his forces. While Gustav was no to go outside when the winds abated. Katrina for Kenner, we can be confident When the threat passed, part of the admin- that a unified command is the way to han- istration contingent was sent to City Hall dle a hurricane. We will work to continue to better handle implementation of street making improvements in the plan. clearing, the start of post-Gustav recovery In the meantime, anyone still dealing and citizen requests for service. City police with post Gustav issues involving city seemed everywhere Monday night and services should call the Kenner “Help Tuesday. Their long patrol shifts were very Line” at 468-4357 (H-E-L-P). effective. As streets became safer to navigate, Mayor Muniz can be reached at 468- administrative personnel fanned out across 7240.★ ★ Community Bernazzani will speak at KPBA luncheon On Tuesday, October 21, 2008, the Kenner Professional Business Association will welcome James Bernazzani, former FBI Agent in Charge, as the featured speaker at its monthly luncheon. Bernazzani will speak about national security. Bernazzani’s career in the FBI centered on leading the efforts to identify, penetrate and neutralize organized criminal groups, notably interna- tional terrorism organizations. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m. with the meeting starting at noon at the Radisson Hotel on Veterans Boulevard in Kenner. Reservations are required and must be made by noon on Friday, October 17 by calling 962-3930.★ Jim Bernazzani KENNER ST★R OCTOBER 2008 7 ★ Government Preventing child abduction By STEVE CARAWAY, Kenner Police Chief Nowadays, offer children gifts, ask them for direc- their clothing, hats, schoolbags or any information online without your permis- abduction is a fear tions, ask them to help look for a lost pet other articles where people can see it. sion. Warn them that posting personal that all parents or ask them to come with them because Children are less likely to fear someone information and pictures online that clue face. No matter their mother or father is hurt, all in an who knows their name, therefore giving others into their whereabouts is not a the age of your children, you always attempt to lure them away. Tell your an abductor the chance to gain their good idea. Predators have been known worry about their safety and their children to run away from these people trust. Establish a secret code word with to track children down using these clues. whereabouts – for good reason. Child and, if a police officer is not around, to your children and teach them not to go Monitor their Internet use and know predators will always be out there, so seek out help from another parent. If with a stranger for any reason, unless what they are doing online and who they it’s important to take precautionary steps your children are old enough to stay they know the secret word. Make sure are talking to should they use chat to ward off the threat. The key to pre- home alone, instruct them not to open your children know their full name, rooms. venting this heinous crime is learning the door for strangers. Have them complete address, home phone number I urge you to share this information what to teach your children about prop- inform unknown callers that their par- and how to dial 9-1-1 in case of an emer- with your children and take heed of er safety practices and taking certain ents are busy and that they’ll take a mes- gency. Should they need to, 911 can be these precautions yourself. Abduction is precautions yourself to ensure their safe- sage. Remind your kids to never play or called from any pay phone free of a serious danger in our society that can ty. take shortcuts in deserted spaces, such charge. It’s also a good idea to have a affect any family, but we can fight back Informing our children of improper as wooded areas and vacant lots. Also, current photo of your child on hand and by putting safety first and educating our adult interaction may make a world of tell your children never to leave the yard to keep track of your child’s current family about proper safety practices.★ difference if they are ever in a compro- of your home without your permission. height and weight for emergency pur- mising situation with a stranger. Tell Very small children should always be poses. Chief Caraway can be reached by your children to never talk to adults they kept in the backyard or in a supervised The Internet is another tool predators email at [email protected]. Visit the do not know, even if they appear to be area when playing outside your home. use to track down children. Instruct your Kenner Police Department website at friendly. Predators have been known to Never put your child’s name on any of children never to give out any personal www.kennerpd.com.

A resilient Louisiana By BOBBY JINDAL, Louisiana Governor On Monday, critical needy were evacuated to safety. resilient state and we live in a generous come back stronger than ever, because September 1 at By Saturday night, out-of-state ambu- country. We will help each other heal, we that is who we are and that is what we 9:30 a.m., lances still had not arrived. After a sleep- will help each other rebuild, and we will do.★ Hurricane Gustav less night of phone calls and planning, crashed into the Texas sent us six C130s at daybreak, and town of Cocodrie and marched its way aircraft from around the country began Did you know your car’s transmission north through Baton Rouge and airlifting medical patients to safety. should be serviced once a year? Alexandria, uprooting trees, knocking Sorties flew every 30 minutes, and out electricity, destroying homes and before tropical winds could ground the Extend the life of your transmission with an annual service. flooding neighborhoods from operation that evening, every medical Plaquemines Parish in the southeast all patient was safely evacuated, ending the $ the way to Monroe in the north. Ten days largest medical evacuation in our Most vehicles only 98 later Hurricane Ike traversed the Gulf nation’s history. headed for Texas. It was a Category 2 Gustav’s winds left power outages that storm, but Ike’s size was so immense that stranded citizens with no gas, food or AutomaticAutomatic Transmission,Transmission, Inc.Inc. it drove a storm surge for two straight water. When Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) 2220 Airline Drive days onto our coast flooding homes from and other commodities did not arrive to Kenner, LA 70062 St. Bernard to Cameron. Louisiana in time, we organized the Oldest shop in (504) 466-1381 Every storm brings wind and water but faith-based community, restaurants and the greater each storm also presents unique chal- some of Louisiana’s world famous chefs New Orleans FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED area lenges. Katrina broke our levees. Rita to provide hundreds of thousands of hot NATIONWIDE WARRANTY razed whole communities. Gustav rav- meals to the hungry. aged our electrical power grid, knocking As power outages persisted, I author- out electricity to over two-thirds of the ized my Secretary of Natural Resources “Proudly Serving Kenner and the Metro Area Since 1976!” state. And Ike flooded an entire coast, to buy generators for gas stations, phar- thousands of homes in towns like macies and grocery stores, so communi- Houma, Lake Charles, Erath and ties without power could buy food, Franklin. Each storm brought destruction water, medication and gas for their vehi- Sinc e 1979 Master Groomer Of All Breeds and devastation and each storm revealed cles. the courage, compassion and resiliency In the coming weeks, you will hear the of our people. Neighbors cared for neigh- stories of heroes who built levees while bors, and strangers reached out a hand to storm waters rose, evacuated patients in Paw-Fection help those in need. the middle of the night and risked safety In & Out In 1 Hour Although the national media praised to rescue the stranded. You will hear sto- “Grooming By Ken” Louisiana’s preparation and unprece- ries about first responders, members of $ dented evacuation for Gustav, it did not the National Guard, pastors and everyday BEST PRICE IN KENNER - Most pets 35 happen without unexpected challenges. Louisianans who saved lives and cared On Wednesday before Gustav’s land- for the hurting. Where the pets are Happy To Return fall, I executed a contract for 700 buses You will hear these stories and you will Tues.-Sat. • 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. to evacuate those with critical needs. be proud of our state and proud of our Two days later the buses had not arrived. people. 4228 Williams Blvd. • I ordered my staff to find school buses These storms hit us hard but when the 469-9100 and I mobilized the National Guard to water subsides and the debris is cleared, provide bus drivers. Within 48 hours the we will come back. Louisiana is a 8 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R ★ Fitness Water – How eight glasses a day keep fat away By YVETTE DUSSOUY Incredible as it Diuretics offer a temporary solution at Water helps rid the body of waste. to function optimally, its fluids are per- may seem, water best. They force out stored water along During weight loss, the body has a lot fectly balanced. When this happens, you is quite possibly with some essential nutrients. Again, the more waste to get rid of – all of that have reached the “breakthrough point.” the single most body perceives a threat and will replace metabolized fat must be shed. Again, What does this mean? important catalyst the lost water at the first opportunity. adequate water helps flush out the waste. Endocrine gland function improves. in losing weight and keeping it off. Thus, the condition quickly returns. Water can help relieve constipation. Fluid retention is alleviated as stored Although most of us take it for granted, The best way to overcome the problem When the body gets too little water, it water is lost. water may be the only true “magic of water retention is to give your body siphons what it needs from internal More fat is used as fuel because the potion” for permanent weight loss. what it needs – plenty of water. Only then sources. The colon is one primary source. liver is free to metabolize stored fat. Water suppresses the appetite naturally will the stored water be released. The result? Constipation. But, when a Natural thirst returns. and helps the body metabolize stored fat. If you have a constant problem with person drinks enough water, normal There is a loss of hunger almost Studies have shown that a decrease in water retention, excess salt may be to bowel function usually returns. overnight. water intake will cause fat deposits to blame. Your body will tolerate sodium So far, we’ve discovered some remark- If you stop drinking enough water, increase, while an increase in water only in a certain concentration. The more able truths about water and weight loss: your body fluids will be thrown out of intake can actually reduce fat deposits. salt you eat, the more water your system The body will not function properly balance again, and you may experience Here’s why: The kidneys can’t func- retains to dilute it. without enough water and can’t metabo- fluid retention, unexplained weight gain tion properly without enough water. But getting rid of the unneeded salt is lize stored fat efficiently. and loss of thirst. To remedy the situa- When they don’t work to capacity, some easy – just drink more water. As it’s Retained water shows up as excess tion, you’ll have to go back and force of their load is dumped onto the liver. forced through the kidneys, it takes away weight. another “breakthrough.” One of the liver’s primary functions is excess sodium. To get rid of excess water you must Bottom line: Drink water for optimum to metabolize stored fat into usable ener- The overweight person needs more drink more water. health and weight loss!★ gy for the body. But, if the liver has to do water than the thin one. Larger people Drinking water is essential to weight some of the kidney’s work, it can’t oper- have larger metabolic loads. Since we loss. Yvette Dussouy, for over 15 years has ate at full throttle. As a result, it metabo- know that water is the key to fat metabo- How much water is enough? On aver- owned and operated the Kenner lizes less fat, more fat remains stored in lism, it follows that the overweight per- age, a person should drink eight eight- Jazzercise Fitness Center, which has the body, and weight loss stops. son needs more water. ounce glasses every day. That’s about recently moved to a new location, 4228 Drinking enough water is the best Water helps to maintain proper two quarts. However, the overweight Williams Boulevard. A certified instruc- treatment for fluid retention. When the muscle tone by giving the muscles their person needs one additional glass for tor for over 18 years, Dussouy has been body gets less water, it perceives this as a natural ability to contract and by prevent- every 25 pounds of excess weight. The awarded Pacesetter Elite status by threat to survival and begins to hold on to ing dehydration; it also helps to prevent amount you drink also should be Jazzercise, Inc. for the past ten years. every drop. Water is stored in extra-cel- the sagging skin that usually follows increased if you exercise briskly or if the Dussouy can be reached at 464-4600 or lular spaces (outside the cells). This weight loss – shrinking cells are buoyed weather is hot and dry. [email protected]. The Kenner Jazzercise shows up as swollen feet, legs, and by water, which plums the skin and Water should preferably be cold – it’s Center has classes early morning, morn- hands. leaves it clear, healthy and resilient. absorbed into the system more quickly ing, afternoon, evenings and weekends – than warm water. And some evidence some include childcare. This class sched- suggests that drinking cold water can ule includes classes for the overweight actually help burn calories. through the very fit. For the complete TWO GREAT LOCATIONS IN KENNER When the body gets the water it needs schedule visit www.jazzercise.com. ★ Drive Thru Community Now Open Yenni to serve as asthma walk co-chairman

Kenner Chief chronic lung disease – usually associated Administrative with asthma, emphysema and chronic 3501 Chateau Blvd. • 465-9444 701 W. Esplanade • 461-9819 Officer Mike bronchitis – remains the third deadliest Yenni will again affliction, Vitale said. She said in TryTry oneone ofof ourour serve as co-chair- Jefferson Parish alone, more than 19,000 Call Ahead for man of the 2008 adults also suffer from asthma; 14,500 Asthma and Lung residents from chronic bronchitis; 6,600 To Go Orders! healthyhealthy salads!salads! 5K Walk on people from emphysema and nearly 400 Southwestern Chicken Salad - 8.95 October 18 at people from lung cancer. Grilled chicken, corn, salsa, balck beans, cheddar jack cheese, cucumbers, Audubon Park in Dr. Nereida Parada, a pulmonologist at tomatoes, & tortilla strips. Served with Southwest ranch dressing. New Orleans. Tulane and association board member, Smoked Turkey Salad - 8.50 Smoked turkey, baby swiss, chopped walnuts and sliced apple. The American Mike Yenni said the 2008 Walk will again bring much Cobb Salad - 9.25 Lung Association needed funding for education and Rows of grilled chicken, crumbled blue cheese, carrots, boiled egg, of Louisiana asked Yenni to rejoin research into the disease. “Asthma affects cheddar jack cheese, bacon and smoked turkey. Jefferson Parish President Aaron about 30,000 children in the New Orleans Grilled Chicken Spinach Salad -8.25 Broussard in the annual fundraiser to ben- area,” Parada said. “We know a lot about Fresh spinach, grilled chicken, feta cheese, black olives, tomatoes and cucumbers. efit cutting-edge asthma research at the asthma with allergies, but we’re still try- Chef Salad - 9.25 Grilled chicken, smoked ham, cheddar jack cheese, boiled egg, fresh tomatoes, LSU Health Sciences Center and the ing to find more of the answers.” bacon and alfalfa sprouts. Tulane University Medical Center. Join the American Lung Association of All salads served on romaine lettuce with wheat crackers and your choice of dressing. “It’s a worthy cause. Besides, who Louisiana’s “Blow the Whistle on Asthma Rasberry Walnut, Caesar, Lite Ranch, Honey Mustard, Fat Free Italian, Hot Bacon, doesn’t know someone who suffers from Walk” and solicit pledges or make a per- Blue Cheese, Balsmic Basil Vinaigrette. Extra dressing .50. asthma?” said Yenni, 32, whose relative sonal donation. Registration for the 5K had asthma as a child. Walk at Audubon Park is accepted online In fact, nearly 10,000 children in at www.LouisianaLung.org or the walk Jefferson Parish alone are affected from day beginning at 8:00 a.m. The walk starts the condition, which is the leading cause at 9:00 a.m. Food and entertainment will of missing school, according to Aline be available afterward. For more informa- Open 7 Days • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Vitale, deputy executive director of the tion call 828-5864 or email aline@bell- Louisiana branch of the Lung Association. south.net.★ Throughout the New Orleans area, KENNER ST★R OCTOBER 2008 9 ★ Government Fire prevention week held in October By JOHN HELLMERS, Kenner Fire Chief October 5 Maintain heating equipment and chimneys Each October our firefighters visit on wheels equipped with smoke alarms through 11, 2008 by having them cleaned and inspected schools, businesses and retirement homes and theater smoke for realism. By starting is “Fire every year by a qualified professional. to practice their fire drills and teach fire with early education and practicing the Prevention” week. Keep all things that can burn, such as prevention techniques. We use our importance of an escape plan, good habits The National Fire Protection Association paper, bedding or furniture, at least three “Smoke House” and “Sparky the Fire will be formed and lives will be saved.★ theme this year is “It’s Fire Prevention feet away from heating equipment. Turn Dog” costume to try to deliver our mes- Week: Prevent Home Fires!” In 2007, portable space heaters off when you go to sage to our younger audiences. Our Smoke Kenner Fire Chief John Hellmers can be there were an estimated 399,000 reported bed or leave the room. An oven should not House is a scaled down two-story house reached at 468-7266 or [email protected]. home structure fires resulting in 2,865 be used to heat a home. Generators should civilian deaths and 12,500 civilian injuries not be used indoors or near your house. and $6.8 billion in direct damage in the The exhaust can infiltrate living spaces United States. Home fires caused 84 per- and incapacitate occupants. Remember cent of civilian deaths and 77 percent of that you cannot see or smell carbon injuries. With just a little extra caution, our monoxide. community can prevent the leading causes If you smoke, choose fire-safe ciga- of home fires – cooking, heating, electrical rettes. If you smoke, smoke outside. and smoking-materials. Wherever you smoke, use deep, sturdy Here are a few simple things you can do ashtrays. Never smoke in a home where to prevent fires in you home when cook- oxygen is used. When materials become ing. Stay in the kitchen when you are fry- saturated with oxygen, they burn at a ing, grilling or broiling food. If you leave greatly accelerated pace. Even flame retar- the kitchen for even a short time period, dant clothing can burn when the oxygen turn off the stove. Keep anything that can content increases. Keep matches and catch fire such as potholders, oven mitts, lighters up high in a locked cabinet, out of wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags the reach of children. away from your stovetop. Wear short, Keep candles at least 12 inches from close fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when anything that can burn. Use sturdy, safe cooking. Loose clothing can dangle onto candleholders. Never leave a burning can- stove burners and catch fire. Always keep dle unattended. Blow out candles when FREE general inspection upon request an oven mitt and lid handy. If a small fire you leave a room. Avoid using candles in starts in a pan on the stove, put on the oven bedrooms and sleeping areas. Use flash- mitt and smother the flames by carefully lights for emergency lighting. sliding the lid over the pan. Turn off the Install smoke detectors in every bed- Full service, oil & filter change burner. Don’t remove the lid until it is room, outside of each sleeping area and on completely cool. every level of the home. For the best pro- 9595 Reg. $29 A few tips regarding electrical safety tection, interconnect all smoke detectors include keeping lamps, light fixtures and throughout the home. When one sounds, $19 light bulbs away from anything that can they all sound. Test smoke detectors at burn, such as lampshades, bedding, cur- least once a month by using the test button. FLEET ACCOUNTS WELCOME tains and clothing. Inspect the cords on Replace smoke detectors every 10 years. www.gtautorpmo.com your appliances and, if found to be cracked Make sure everyone can hear the sound of for or damaged, have them replaced by a qual- the smoke detectors. Have a home fire ified electrician. Use extension cords for escape plan. Know at least two ways out COUPONS AND temporary wiring only. Homes with young of every room, if possible, and have a PRICES OF OUR SERVICES 3247 Chetta Dr. (across Vets from K-Mart) • 885-6495 children should have tamper-resistant meeting place outside. Practice your electrical receptacles. Call a qualified elec- escape plan twice a year. When the smoke trician if you have recurring problems with detectors sound, get out and stay out. If blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers, you are building or remodeling your discolored or warm wall outlets, flickering home, consider a residential fire sprinkler lights or a burning or rubbery smell com- system. ing from an appliance. Never go back into a burning building To ensure you are not exposed to carbon for personal belongings. Most of your monoxide (CO) poisoning, install and property can be replaced and is not worth maintain carbon monoxide alarms. losing your life trying to save it. Kenner Police to participate in plane pull to benefit Special Olympics

On Saturday, October 25, 2008, the pull a Fed Ex plane, which weighs Kenner Police Department along with 150,000 lbs., a total of 15 feet. Teams other agencies and organizations will be will compete for the fastest team, worst participating in a plane pull at Louis team and best dressed team titles. The Armstrong International Airport to bene- entry fee for a team is $1,000. fit Special Olympics Louisiana. For more information on this event, Registration will take place at 9:00 a.m. log on to www.laso.org. To register your that day and the pull will begin at 10:00 team, contact Tiffany King with Special a.m. Olympics Louisiana at 1-800-345-6644 Teams comprised of 20 members will or [email protected].★ 10 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R ★ Sports Just do it By KEN TRAHAN I always want- the clothing you buy, the music you whether he or she is buying what you were going. To the winner’s circle. To a ed to be in mar- purchase, the concert you attend, the are selling. championship. To real satisfaction. keting. For those game you attend. In sports, the premise is the same. “Just Win, Baby.” It works. “Just Do that are, congrat- Good marketing is important and Every year, the Saints, Hornets, It.” It works. When we look at the New ulations and Godspeed in your efforts. breeds success. Still, it is a remarkable Zephyrs VooDoo, Tulane, UNO and Orleans Saints and their early season A good marketing campaign can dra- thought to know that someone is will- others roll out their marketing cam- exploits, there is the real existence of an matically increase visibility and viabil- ing to pay you to come up with a slogan paigns and slogans. From “Vote unfortunate, lengthy list of key injuries. ity with a respective product. You can or an idea that could spawn a phenome- Boudreaux,” to “Earn It,” to “Get Your From Deuce McAllister to Mike always tell when marketing has been non. Beauty is in the eye of the behold- Stinger in a Seat,” to “The Home McKenzie. From Hollis Thomas to effective. There is a catch-slogan that er. One man (or woman’s) treasure is Team,” the slogans have been plentiful. Randall Gay. From Mark Simoneau to you cannot get out of your mind. There another man (or woman’s) trash. It is Some have been memorable. Some Usama Young. From Aaron Glenn to is a jingle that you inexplicably and apple and oranges. Ultimately, it is were never memorized. Marques Colston. From Scott Fujita to involuntarily hum all day long. There is completely up to the consumer as to By exposing a product with great fre- Roman Harper. The Saints have had an quency to the potential buyer, an image amazing rash of injuries for an NFL is affixed in minds either subliminally team so early in its season. or overtly. Sports compete for the enter- Without a doubt, the injuries have Join Us For An Event— tainment dollar in aggressive fashion. largely contributed to a disappointing We Invite Your Membership. All area sports entities have to market start. This is undeniable. In the final themselves, to get the word out. In analysis, no one will look at the land- THE KENNER PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS some cases, it is necessary to remind scape or the reasons. No one will ask ASSOCIATION’S (KPBA) folks that they exist. On other fronts, it why or how. There will be one simple, KENNER MEETING WILL BE HELD is simply window dressing. It truly basic fact. There will be one simple, Professional Business depends on the product. basic question. Did you win? There is TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2008 When I think of sports and marketing, no gray area. This is black and white, as Speaker: James Bernazzani, Association former FBI Agent in Charge I think of two simple phrases. First, in the black and white print in the Founded in 1985 speaking on national security there is “Just Do It.” This was not the standings every week. marketing slogan of a sports team but In the media business, many have a A Community Based Call 962-3930 to make luncheon reservations of a mega sports franchise. Nike coined penchant to make statements like, Networking Organization Networking begins at 11:30 a.m. • Lunch at noon. the phrase around the time that Michael “that’s not a one and two team,” as if to For Men and Women Jordan was dominating the world of insinuate that the team is better than RADISSON HOTEL www.kpba.biz 2150 Veterans Boulevard in Kenner professional basketball. It resonated. It your record. Former Saints coach Jim Info: 962-3930 had a long shelf-life. Mora once said that, “You are what you The reason that it worked is that it cut are.” Bill Parcells has made a similar to the very heart of who we are, where statement. I concur. Despite ability, we live and what we strive to achieve. despite potential, despite promise, you We listen, we assess “Just Do It.” No frills. No window are what you are. Your record is what it your needs, we make it easy for dressing. No subterfuge. Just Do it. It is. sounds like the perfect message for a “Just Win Baby.” Did you win or did you to make legal decisions. coach’s pep talk. Instead of searching you lose? “Just Do It.” There are no • Wills - Trusts - Successions for every inspirational, motivational excuses. No one wants to hear them. No • Real Estate Closings ounce of creative lingo that you could one wants to hear about your problems. ever conjure up, why not just call upon We all have problems, our own crosses • Business Law those three words – “Just Do It.” to bear, of sorts. In the world of sports, F Another slogan along these lines the best elixir to cure all ills is to win. ML came from controversial Oakland That is, and will always be the best Raiders owner Al Davis. Again, it was marketing campaign there will ever be. simple. Again, it consisted of just three Borrowing a phrase from your New Melchers Law Firm words: “Just Win, Baby!” Winning is Orleans Saints, “Earn it.” No one is Estate Planning • Real Estate • Business Law what it is all about. It is what we com- going to give you anything. I don’t need 909 West Esplanade Ave., Suite 206, Kenner pete for. It is the goal every time we a marketing firm to provide these words James L. Melchers, Attorney-At-Law (504) 467-1092 participate in any team or individual of wisdom..★ Kathy Melchers, Administrator sport. No one enters a competition with the desire or intent to lose. Ken Trahan serves as sports director “Just Win, Baby.: The mercurial, of WGSO 990 AM/WGSO.com and is volatile Raiders’ owner was not inter- president and general manager of ested in character off of the playing neworleans.com Sports. Trahan is the field. He was not interested in how you also the general manager and chairman got it done. He didn’t care how you of the board of the Saints Hall of Fame looked. He had no concerns about Museum in the Louisiana Superdome, where you have been. He simply want- and runs the Life Resources Sports Attention Business Owners ed to provide a guidepost for where you Ministry. Be An Achiever!

• Generate Solid Leads • Learn Leadership Skills • Be A Confident Public Speaker • Improve Profitability Children’s Castle The Executive Achievers Association meets bi-weekly for breakfast 501 Williams Blvd. Thursday, October 9 & 23 at 7:00 a.m. at Messina’s Catering, 2717 Williams Blvd. Performances on Saturdays

THE EXECUTIVE ACHIEVERS ASSOCIATION 11:30 a.m Call Randy Lovitt at 504-836-7136 for more information on becoming a member. KENNER ST★R OCTOBER 2008 11 12 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R ★ Airport Surviving the storms By SEAN C. HUNTER, Director of Aviation Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport As I write this prior to Hurricane Gustav. After the final column, there are scheduled flight left New Orleans, TSA no named storms and FAA staff departed on chartered air- in the Gulf of craft, thereby ceasing all airport opera- Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean and for that tions until the storm passed. I am extremely grateful. I hope you suc- A contingent of airport management cessfully weathered the impacts of and operations staff remained with me at Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. The prepara- the airport with a security detail of law tion for the arrival of these storms was an enforcement and firemen. Immediately opportunity for Louis Armstrong New after the storm passed, airport personnel Orleans International Airport to put into cleared the runways and did an initial practice plans, procedures and processes damage assessment. Since damage was that had been revamped and rehearsed minimal, the only hindrance to resuming since Hurricane Katrina. I want to thank flight operations was a lack of electricity our staff, our tenants, the airlines and the to operate runway lighting and TSA various government agencies at the air- screening equipment. Generators played port for their cooperation and attention to a key role until Entergy could restore the needs of our passengers before and commercial power, but they were quite after the storms. Teamwork was the key limited in their capacity. Fortunately, to success. electricity was restored late in the day Fortunately, the hurricane evacuation after Gustav passed, allowing for the plan adopted by the parishes in our testing of equipment and resumption of region was adhered to by most of the cit- services. izenry and the move to “get out of Hurricane Ike caused no interruptions Dodge” was executed very well by local, in air service at Armstrong International, parish and state officials. Nearly two mil- except for the cancellation of numerous lion people left the Gulf Coast, including flights to Houston and Dallas, Texas. residents with special needs, such as Due to our good fortune, we had the nursing home residents and hospital opportunity to help our neighboring patients. state. After Hurricane Katrina, a number Prior to the arrival of Gustav, FEMA of airports dispatched their employees to began evacuation of people who did not help Armstrong International Airport have the means to evacuate on their own. recover and become operational. This We Fit ... Every Body Their term for those folks is Critical time we were able to send members of Transportation Needs (CTN) individuals our Operations Department to airports in and they were taken out of town via Texas to help them get back on their feet. Jazzercise busses, trains and air. At Armstrong The Houston Airport System (HAS) was Every 60-minute class includes a warm up, minimum 30-minute aerobic International, a processing center for the dealt a severe blow by Hurricane Ike. workout, muscle toning and strengthening segment with weights, and CTNs was established in the former Fortunately, they reported zero injuries to stretching. For the beginner to the very fit! Postal Facility adjacent to the airport ter- their 500 workers who stayed on the job minal. Additional Transportation as the hurricane hit. Their airfields, Jazzercise Lite Security Administration (TSA) officers including 125 miles of runways and taxi- Whether youʼre a senior, newcomer, pregnant, very overweight or prefer were summoned through the Washington ways, were spared. Most of their damage no impact, you canʼt go wrong with this light version of the original Jazzer- office to provide security screening for was structural. cise program. the CTNs and FEMA facilitated move- We have already begun analyzing our ment to the assigned aircraft. Planes from performance before, during and after the Jazzercise Circuit various airlines, charter services and mil- hurricanes of 2008. We can always Interval training class in which strength training is intermingled within the itary transport were utilized in the evacu- improve the way we react to emergen- aerobic segment. This cross-training class is available to improve your fit- ation of nearly 5,000 people. Medical cies. Again, I want to commend our air- ness level. needs individuals who FEMA evacuated port team and federal, state and local Jazzercise Personal Touch by air were taken out of Lakefront agencies for a job well done. Once again, These small group weight training sessions are designed to improve Airport. their professionalism was able to shine ★ strength and tone muscles. The personalized approach encourages exer- On the commercial side, all airlines through in a big way. cise consistency and the attainment of fitness goals. added extra flights or larger aircraft to accommodate the many citizens choos- Sean Hunter can be reached at Jazzercise Step ing to depart the area by plane as well as www.flymsy.com. Check your local list- Jazzercise's trademark choreography is specially adapted to create an visitors heading home. A total of 28,000 ings for the air time of the Armstrong original step aerobic class that's anything but routine. ticketed passengers departed Armstrong International Airport 30 minute televi- International on Saturday and Sunday sion program, “Airport Alive.” JR Jazzercise Ages 5 – 12 Non competitive kidʼs workout with nutrition and health tips and games. Call for Advertising InfoTODAY! KENNER JAZZERCISE CENTER 4228 Williams Blvd. 464.4600 For special offers and schedule of classes www.jazzercise.com Kenner St★r • 468-9125 KENNER ST★R OCTOBER 2008 13 ★ Law Necessary documentation By JAMES L. MELCHERS SAVE MONEY ON GAS!!!!!!!!!! As you were power of attorney. The general procura- evacuating for tion is a durable power of attorney that Increase Fuel Economy! Gustav or Ike, did allows the person you appoint to handle you remember to your business and personal affairs. The with the “Revolutionary” bring your wills special limited medical power of attor- Motor Vac Carbon Clean System! and powers of attorney along with your ney, also a durable power of attorney, insurance policies? Unfortunately, most gives your agent the right to make med- Process guaranteed to make engines run cleaner injuries and deaths due to a hurricane ical decisions for you if you are unable and smoother and get better gas mileage! occur during the evacuation or after the to do so. You should make sure you still storm had passed. That is why your want the person or persons you have Clean your fuel system, including injectors and remove estate planning documents should be appointed to remain as stated in the doc- harmful carbon deposits that rob your car of fuel economy taken with you during an evacuation or, uments. Have the people moved to a dif- utilizing a unique cleaning solution with no damage to at the very least, a copy of them with a ferent city or state? Are they easily avail- vehicles’ sophisticated components. note as to the location of the originals. able to assist you if you need them? Do You’ll feel the difference! We were spared the horrible flooding you have “back up” people named? with Gustav, but Katrina destroyed Additionally, review your living dec- MOTOR VAC FUEL INJECTION SERVICE many original wills that were located in laration and its date to make sure it con- bank boxes, because the banks flooded forms with the new format that was along with everything else. adopted in 2005 as a result of the highly $ 99 There are four basic estate planning publicized Terri Shivo case. 125 documents that everyone should have For those individuals who have not regular price $140.99 and should have stored in water tight established wills, powers of attorney or containers, preferably within fire proof living declarations, it would be very • Increase fuel economy boxes. These documents are your last wise to move quickly and get your • Improve performance will and testament, general power of affairs in order. • Improve acceleration attorney, special limited medical power As to life insurance policies, retire- • Improve drivability problems related to carbon of attorney and your declaration. The ment benefits and other non-probate or other contamination declaration states your choice as to assets, make sure your primary and sec- whether or not you want to be hooked up ondary named beneficiaries are exactly Rings Injectors Valves Pistons to life support if you’re certified brain as you currently want them. A deceased dead by two physicians. spouse or child should be removed as a It is recommended that you review the named beneficiary. If a beneficiary estate planning documents listed above needs to be changed, call the appropriate every three years or after any major life entity (insurance company, financial changes. Major life changes include institution) and ask for a beneficiary marriage or divorce, retirement, death of change form. Remember to complete the a parent or spouse, change in your finan- form and return it immediately. All too cial situation, a move to a different often, “I got the form, and just never sent house, loss of your original documents, it back” is the excuse people use. Why is change in employment, birth of a child this important? Because a non-probate Combustion Chamber or grandchild and your last child turning asset can become a probate asset if the 24 (no longer a forced heir). named beneficiaries are no longer alive. You should review your will to make Even though we are still in hurricane sure the distribution of your estate is season, hopefully, we will not see any- exactly how you want it to be now. It is more storms move into the Gulf of appropriate to change the distribution at Mexico. Once a storm is in the Gulf, it Tires • Alignments • Balancing • Oil Changes thedeathofalovedoneorsomeother may be too late to get your estate plan- Shocks • Air Conditioner Work • Struts event such as a change in a relationship. ning documents in order.★ Brake Service • Batteries • Belts • Hoses You will want to decide if the people you have selected to administer the estate, James L. Melchers is the senior attor- Tune-Ups CV Joints • Fuel Injection Cleaning raise your minor children or act as ney at Melchers Law Firm, located at trustee of a trust should remain the same 909 West Esplanade Avenue in Kenner or be changed. Also, look at the date of and the firm’s primary areas of practice your will to make sure you have taken are estate planning, wills, trusts, succes- advantage of the dramatic changes in the sions, corporate law, and personal probate laws which began in the late injury. Melchers can be reached at 467- 1990s. 1092 or visit the website at www.melch- You should have two distinct powers erslawfirm.com. Melchers Law Firm is of attorney, which are the general procu- now open one Saturday morning each ration and the special limited medical month. 4200 Williams Blvd. 465-1312 Remember to vote 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday SATURDAY, www.scottystireauto.com OCTOBER 4 14 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R ★ Health Preventive care for teen reproductive health, making the first visit to an OB/GYN By PAOLO ZAMBITO While many parents are still to get answers to questions that they may be too Establishing trust and confidentiality at any under the assumption that embarrassed or afraid to raise with parents and health care visit is extremely important. The first young girls don’t need to visit friends. visit provides an opportunity for parents or an obstetrician/gynecologist Physicians can discuss normal development, men- guardians to meet the physician, alleviate fears and (OB/GYN) until age 18, the American College of struation, sexuality, healthy eating habits, safety develop trust. Together, parents and teens can be Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) actually and injury prevention with teens, in addition to tak- given a thorough explanation of the visit and confi- recommends that teenage girls first visit an ing a menstrual, reproductive and family history. dentiality issues by the OB/GYN, and then the OB/GYN between the ages of 13 and 15. Why so “An initial visit also gives OB/GYNs an opportuni- exam and discussion can continue alone with the much sooner than previously recommended? ty to address problems that may require early inter- teen to hear any private concerns. Dr. Truitt “Preventive care and education are paramount,” vention such as eating disorders and weight issues, explains, “The visit is about making sure the teen says Dr. Amy Truitt, OB/GYN who practices at blood pressure problems and other issues such as feels comfortable and letting her parents know we Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner. “Due to the preva- anxiety, depression and abuse,” says Dr. Truitt. all have the same goals: to ensure their daughter is lence of early involvement in sexual intercourse, Many teens worry about visiting an OB/GYN healthy, stays healthy and is acting responsibly.”★ alcohol and drug abuse, cigarette smoking and poor because they think they will need to undergo a dietary habits, it is important to form a strong pre- pelvic exam. However, ACOG recommends that Paolo Zambito, R.N., is chief executive officer at ventive foundation with girls at the onset of puber- young women have their first Pap test approximate- Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner and has served in ty.” ly three years after vaginal intercourse but before this role for three years. Zambito has been at the Early visits with an OB/GYN will help teens age 21, so many teens will visit an OB/GYN sever- Kenner facility for over 16 years. For more infor- develop a relationship with their doctor before they al times before a pelvic exam is necessary. mation, contact OMC-Kenner at the corner of West need to seek care for a specific health issue. However, a pelvic exam may be recommended if Esplanade and Loyola Avenue in Kenner, call 468- Interaction with an OB/GYN they trust allows teens any pain or abnormalities are present. 8600 or visit www.ochsner.org. October is “National Physical Therapy” month By CRAIG GOODWIN Physical therapists around the their body. When injury or disability occurs, it is through 1980 to 13.9 percent during 2003 and 2004. country are commemorating often times the physical therapist that people turn to During the same period, the prevalence increased “National Physical Therapy” in order to overcome their pain and loss of mobility. from 6.5 percent to 18.8 percent among young people month in October. “National A physical therapist is a licensed health care profes- aged six to 11 years and five percent to 17.4 percent Physical Therapy” month cele- sional who evaluates a patient’s physical status, among those aged 12 to 19 years. brates the health and well being establishes goals and a plan of care, and administers People who are obese are at increased risk for heart of any person’s single most valuable possession – treatments to promote optimal health. Each year disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis-relat- American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) ed disabilities and some cancers. The estimated total identifies a theme with this year’s being, “Physical cost of obesity in the United States in 2000 was about therapy: it’s all about movement.” $117 billion. Physical therapists are healthcare professionals Regular physical activity and healthy eating are who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, from essential components of addressing the obesity prob- newborns to the elderly, who have medical problems lem. Physical therapists support the U.S. Surgeon or other health-related conditions that limit their abil- General’s recommendation that children get 60 min- ity to move and perform functional activities in their utes of moderate physical activity and that adults get daily lives. Physical therapists examine each individ- 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of ual and develop a plan of care using treatment tech- the week. For people who are overweight or obese, niques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, starting with even small amounts of physical activity restore function, and prevent disability. Physical ther- can help improve fitness and lower heath risks. apists also work with individuals to prevent the loss Movement and exercise are essential to our everyday of mobility by developing fitness and wellness-ori- lives.★ ented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles. Craig Goodwin, physical therapist, is president of One of our major concerns is in helping to prevent Kenner Orthopedic and Sports Therapy, located at and manage being overweight and obese in both chil- 3921 Williams Boulevard with two other locations in dren and adults. In the past 30 years, the prevalence Metairie and on the West Bank. Goodwin graduated of both has increased sharply for both adults and chil- from LSU Medical School Department of Allied dren. Since 1976 through 1980, the prevalence of Health, Department of Physical Therapy, in 1987. obesity among U.S. adults has approximately dou- Anyone who has experienced an injury and would like We are a locally owned, independently operated, bled. In 2005 through 2006, more than 34 percent of to find out why it happened and what can be done to family funeral home continuing a tradition that has adults aged 20 years or older were obese. The preva- help restore normal function in that area, can email endured for 119 years! And we believe that makes a lence of being overweight among children aged two the professionals at [email protected] or great difference in the care, service and value your to five years increased from five percent during 1976 visit the website at orthosportstherapy.com. family receives. If you ever have a question or would like more information feel free to call or stop by. ★ Community Lost luggage for publicly assisted evacuees can be claimed

Publicly assisted evacuees who still have lost luggage remain open until further notice. The hours are Monday may go to New Orleans City Hall, 1300 Perdido Street, through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and visit the 311 Center office located on the first floor. For more information call 658-2299 or 1-877-286- Enter through the Poydras Street entrance. 6431. Hearing Impaired, Vietnamese or Spanish should The center opened on September 26, 2008 and will call 1-800-981-6652.★ "
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 4 Election Special Kenner St★r

Jim Harlan for Congress For Louisiana 1st

Hurricane protection: with flood gates to keep storm surges out of the entire Lake Pontchartrain basin, restoration of the Louisiana wetlands, and strong levees. Jim will fight to get the funds and support this region deserves, so we can build our communities with confidence. Lowering gas prices: by requiring oil companies to help develop alternative fuels, and by increasing domestic oil drilling. Get the economy back on track: by strengthening the housing market, making quality health care affordable and accessible for all, and creating more good-paying jobs in Louisiana. Vote for Jim Harlan on Oct. 4th in the Primary and on Nov. 4th in the General

Authorized & Paid for by Jim Harlan for Congress. KENNER ST★R OCTOBER 2008 15 ★ Health EJGH launches Diamondback 360, gives new hope to those suffering from peripheral arterial disease By KEITH M. DARCEY East Jefferson slowly deteriorate. Severe cases can even “I would say about one-third of our dia- Keith M. Darcey is a communications General Hospital lead to amputation of the limb. Warning betic population has PAD,” says Dr. specialist with East Jefferson General pledges to always signs of constricted blood flow may Chantal Lorio, medical director of the Hospital located at 4200 Houma seek the latest technology and surgical pro- include wounds on the foot that heal slow- EJGH Wound and Diabetes Management Boulevard in Metairie. Darcey can be cedures and bring them home to our com- ly, muscle fatigue or numbness in the legs, Center. “I have patients who could not reached at 889-7110 or at munity. Delivering on that pledge again, or foot and toe pain that occurs while at have undergone bypass surgery but have [email protected]. East Jefferson General EJGH is the first in our area to introduce rest. had this new procedure successfully. Hospital, Louisiana’s first Nurse Magnet the Diamondback 360 Orbital Until now, there were limited treatment Overall, I think this procedure has already hospital, is a publicly owned, not-for-prof- Atherectomy System. This breakthrough options for the calcification, particularly in saved some of my diabetic patients from it community hospital, providing care to technology is giving hope to those suffer- the legs. The Diamondback 360 now having an extremity amputated.”★ theresidentsoftheEastBankofJefferson ing from calcification in arteries, a com- allows physicians to insert a catheter into Parish and surrounding communities. mon problem facing those with diabetes the leg, and with a rotating diamond tipped and other chronic conditions. crown, sand the hardened plaque out of the “This technology allows us to intervene vessel. This opens the vessel to increase We have solutions for earlier than before and in cases we simply bloodflowandleavesthevesselwall did not have effective means to treat cal- intact. The plaque is broken into tiny your hair challenges. cific disease,” says Dr. Henry Pretus, pieces that can be safely absorbed into the EJGH vascular surgeon. “The body’s circulatory system. Call today for a free Diamondback can now be considered a “In the patients we have treated using first line of treatment and is suited to target this technology, they all had stenosis, or private consultation. our very toughest cases.” narrowing, of the vessel prior to the proce- Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is dure, and we were able to restore blood estimated to affect over 12 million people flow,” says Dr. Pretus. “The results have in the United States and occurs when been quite impressive.” plaque builds up in the arteries, constrict- This is great news for patients in gener- Before After ing or even preventing blood flow from the al, but in particular, those with diabetes. heart to the legs and arms. When the Diabetics are especially at risk for circula- Hair StylesUnlimited plaque calcifies, or hardens, the narrowing tory problems and heart disease. In the limits the amount of blood needed to cir- past, the only possible option was a vessel 464-5949 • 3635 Florida Ave. culate to the extremities to keep them bypass surgery, but because of related www.hairstylesunlimitedinc.com • Thinning hair experts since 1977 healthy and functioning. heart problems, they may not have been a Specializing in hair restoration, extensions and alternative hair. Without proper blood flow, tissues can candidate for this major surgery. ORTHOPEDIC CENTER FOR SPORTS MEDICINE Luis M. Espinoza, M.D., Charles P. Murphy, M.D., Thomas R. Lyons, M.D.

ZA, M.D. LUIS M. ESPINO

Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine is a multispecialty center of excellence dedi- facilitate recovery following injury or surgery. We are pleased to announce the addi- cated to providing the highest quality care for patients with injury or disease of the tion of an extremity MRI at our Metairie office for added patient convenience. musculoskeletal system. Charles P. Murphy, M.D., Thomas R. Lyons, M.D. and Luis Drs. Espinoza, Murphy, and Lyons are pleased to announce their association as or- M. Espinoza, M.D. are fellowship trained and board certified orthopedic surgeons. thopedic consultants to the New York Mets AAA affiliate New Orleans Zephyrs. Their practice encompasses sports medicine, arthroscopy, joint replacement surgery, fracture care, and occupational injuries with focused expertise in surgery of the 671 W. Esplanade Avenue, Suite 100, Kenner 467-5900 shoulder and knee. The Orthopedic Center utilizes in house physical therapists to 4921 Airline Drive, Metairie 889-2663 16 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R ★ Home Fire prevention in the home By DAN DORMADY October marks vention and practice. Here is where to from the top down. It’s also good habit Make sure you know how to use your the anniversary of begin. to sleep with bedroom doors closed. extinguishers before the need arises. If one of the most Draw a floor plan of your home. Meet This slows or prevents the spread of a there is a larger fire, don’t bother trying famous fires in with everyone who lives in your home fire as well as toxic gasses and smoke. to put it out. Evacuate the structure American history – the Great Chicago and talk about how you might get out if The NFPA reports that roughly 70 immediately and call the fire depart- Fire that began on October 8, 1871. the fire was in different places. “Move” percent of home fire deaths result from ment. According to the National Fire the fire around and plan alternate escape fires in homes without smoke alarms or Finally, be safe when it comes to the Protection Association (NFPA), October routes on the paper. Go to each room, working smoke alarms. Since one-quar- use of fireplaces, furnaces, heaters, and is still considered the start of the “fire close your eyes and find the exit, then ter of all fires start during typical sleep- other electrical hazards. Here are a few season” and it is also a perfect time for find a second one in case the first is not ing hours of 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. and safety reminders. Use a fireplace screen everyone to perform a complete home available. Imagine what you would feel more than one-half of all fire related to prevent sparks from flying onto the fire safety check. As heating systems are along the escape routes to determine if deaths occur during this period, a work- carpet or furniture. When using a gas activated and fireplaces are used, the you were going the right direction to get ing smoking detector might be the only fireplace always light your flame source risk of having a fire increases. out during a fire and couldn’t see. thing that averts tragedy. before turning on the gas. If you use a Each year there are over 375,000 Smoke is deadly – and it not only makes Smoke detectors do wear out and after space heater, make sure that you never reported home fires in the U.S. resulting it difficult to breathe, but to see. about five years need to be replaced. leave it unattended and keep all objects in death, injury and property damage. Remind everyone in the family that in Newer models also have updated fea- at least three feet away from it. Candles Cooking is the number one cause of fire case of fire, do not stay in the house, get tures that you may want to consider, left unattended can cause house fires, and fire related injuries. Leaving some- out of the house and call 911 from a such as photoelectric sensors that are especially during the holiday season. thing unattended that is cooking on the neighbor’s home or cell phone. Be sure more sensitive to slow, smoldering fires. Put a cover on a small grease fire to stove, failing to clean heating equip- that younger children know what to do For about $35, a dual sensor detector is smother the flames, turn off the burner ment and placing combustibles too close in an emergency by giving them an also available that can “see” the fire and let it cool. Don’t overload a wall to heating sources are the most common assigned meeting place. Remember it’s with a photoelectric sensor, which pro- socket or extension cord with too many causes of house fires. also critical to stay low when escaping a vides the greatest protection. devices. Lastly, never leave your home The key to preventing home fires and fire. Standing up can be deadly as heat Another convenient feature for a when your clothes dryer or dishwasher injuries comes down to planning, pre- and toxic gasses fill a burning room smoke detector to have in the kitchen is running. These devices have heating area is a reset or “silencer” button. This elements that can fail and start a fire in allows you to temporarily shut down the an instant. Join us for the detector for several minutes during a Preparing, planning and practicing for nuisance alarm, like burned toast, then a fire ahead of time can mean the differ- Domestic Violence goes back to full alert. Resetting your ence between serious injury or death detector is a much better idea than and surviving one of life’s most com- Candlelight Vigil removing the battery, which you may mon tragedies.★ then forget to replace. Hardwired detec- in honor of tors, those wired directly to the home’s Dan Dormady, P.E. is a licensed pro- electrical system, can also wear out and fessional engineer and licensed home Victims and Sur vivor s need to be regularly checked. Check inspector and the president of that the red light status light is flashing Criterium-Dormady Engineers, a local- of Domestic Violence at regular intervals and use the “test” ly owned consulting engineering firm button to make sure the unit is still specializing in residential and commer- Sponsored by working. cial building inspection services. Every home should have fire extin- Dormady can be reached at 456-6999, guishers. Keep them in areas such as the P.O. Box 113565 Metairie, LA 70011- garage, shed and kitchen. Make sure the 3565, or at [email protected]. fire extinguishers you purchase are Criterium-Dormady Engineers’ website Women and Children capable of putting out all types of fires. is www.criterium-dormady.com. & The city of Kenner ★ Community "Big Book Sale" semi-annual sale announced

The Friends of the Jefferson For this sale, there is an exception- Public Library will hold their semi- al collection of military, history annual “Big Book Sale,” on and holiday books and VCR tapes Thursday, October 30 through for both adults and children. Sunday, November 2, 2008, at the Cash, checks and major credit Pontchartrain Center, located at and debit cards will be accepted. Williams Boulevard near Lake There is free admission and plenty Wednesday, October 15, 2008 Pontchartrain in Kenner. Hours are of free parking. For more informa- Ceremony starts at 5:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday from tion, call the Friends of the Library 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and at 455-2665 or email Kenner Heritage Park, Rivertown Sunday from noon to 5:00 p.m. [email protected]. All pro- 2015 4th St. Over 80,000 gently used books, ceeds from the sale benefit the (Williams Blvd. at the river) DVDs, CDs, video tapes, music Jefferson Parish Libraries in their tapes and records will be offered continuing effort to recover from For more information call 837-5400 for sale at very reasonable prices. Hurricane Katrina.★ KENNER ST★R OCTOBER 2008 17 ★ Real Estate Getting your home ready for the market By LINDA R. MARTIN As a seller, visit the American Society of Home your number one Inspectors website at www.ashi.com or goal is to sell ask your real estate professional for your home as recommendations.) A standard report quickly as possible at or near the listing will review the condition of the home’s price. In today’s market, where there is heating system, central air condition- much more competition for buyers, it is ing, plumbing and electrical systems, important to put your best foot, or in the roof, attic, walls, ceilings, floors, this case, home forward because first windows and doors, the foundation and impressions are vital. visible structures. Many of today’s prospective home- If there are recommendations for buyers have busy lifestyles and are improvement, consult with your real looking for properties that don’t estate professional in prioritizing the require a lot of work. Therefore a home list of repairs. in move-in condition is much more Depending on your goals and budget, attractive. Before placing your home you may want to repair only items that on the market, you may want to invest could cause significant deterioration to in making needed repairs. the home, such as a leak. In addition, To get started, inspect both the inside your local market conditions may dic- and outside of the home. Take invento- tate how extensive your repairs need to ry of practical and aesthetic repairs. be. Let your budget and your real estate You may want to apply a fresh coat of professional guide you. paint on the walls, doors and shutters. However, be careful about major Clean the carpet and buff and polish repairs. Sellers rarely recoup money on wooden floors. Tighten and polish major remodeling projects and you hardware. Repair cracks in sidewalks may want to save funds for your new and driveways, and clean any stains on home. them. Replace missing or warped roof- A home in good condition demon- ing. Clean or re-grout kitchen and bath- strates pride of ownership. Taking the rooms. Repair dripping faucets and time to make small repairs to your drains or plumbing fixtures that aren’t home can go a long way in making sure operating. that your home is presented to potential Fix sticking doors and replace old buyers in its best possible light. They locks and doorknobs. Replace old also just might make the sale.★ bulbs and broken electrical sockets. Replace cracked windows and torn Linda R. Martin can be reached at screens. Repair broken fencing and 443-6464. Prudential Gardner The Ice House reseal the deck. Clean up stains on the Realtors is an independently owned tiles and countertops. and operated member of Prudential 2151 WILLIAMS BLVD. Some experts also recommend hiring Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a (RIGHT BEHIND CAR WASH) Game a certified home inspector to thorough- Prudential Financial company. Visit Monday - Thursday • 7 am - 6 pm Time ly and impartially evaluate the proper- the Prudential website at www.pruden- Friday and Saturday • 7 am - 7 pm/Sunday • 8 am - 5 pm is here! ty. (For a list of inspectors in your area, tialgardner.com. 469-3503 ★ Health Hot Specials! Ochsner Medical Center-expands OB services 24 PACK 12 OZ. CANS TOP OFF YOUR TANK Following an extensive remodeling of Jordan, M.D., Amy Truitt, M.D., SUITCASE PROPANE SOLD BY THE GALLON its labor and delivery unit in November Michael Wiedemann, M.D. and Alfred Bud Coors Lite 2007, Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner Wiedemann, M.D. Bud Lite Miller Lite ★ (OMC-K) recently welcomed seven With the addition of these physicians, ICE COLD new OB/GYN physicians. The group, OMC-K expects 120 deliveries per Only formerly established at East Jefferson month, three times as many deliveries 49 KEG General Hospital, now increases the than the pre-Katrina average of 40 per 17 . Kenner OB/GYN services to 29 physi- month, with an overall increase of 600 BEER cians. deliveries, 800 surgeries each year and ★ “This established and well-respected 350 clinic visits each week. To Go group is a great addition to our Ochsner Zambito said these physicians and ★ Kenner team and their expertise will their patients will also benefit from 20 PACK allow for expanded access of OB/GYN Ochsner’s comprehensive sub-specialty Longneck CAJUNLAND services to the Kenner community,” medical resources such as the Pediatric said OMC-K chief executive officer Intensive Care Unit (PICU), OMC- Bottles COMPLETE Bud Coors Lite Paolo Zambito, RN. Kenner’s Level 1 NICU and an Bud Lite Miller Lite The new clinic opened August 1, increased level of support from special- BOIL 2008, at 180 West Esplanade Avenue. ists in oncology, transplant, and pedi- Only .49 The clinic’s physicians are W. Ryckman atric cardiology and neurology. 15 Only 5.99 Caplan, M.D., Michael Cohen, M.D., To schedule an appointment call 464- Vincent Culotta, M.D., Christine 8506.★ 18 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R ★ Faithwalk Radical forgiveness By JOEY CLEVELAND Forgiveness is effects of long-term stress have taken a Globally and historically, there have dow, and the baby’s cries could be heard one of toll on me and my family, and we have been countless instances of holocausts all night. By morning, the cries were Christianity’s paid the price both physically and psy- and genocides that demonstrate the evil reduced to whimpers and then silence. most difficult chologically. Forgiving those responsible of which humanity is capable. One such Next, Immaculee heard starving dogs challenges, but as I have said before, it is for this injustice has taken me years and account in modern times is the incredible growl as they devoured the baby. for our own spiritual and mental health will probably always be a work in story by Immaculee Ilibagiza, a survivor Immaculee prayed for God to receive the and peace of mind that we are exhorted progress for me, but I know that I want to of the 1994 Rwandan holocaust. Her child’s innocent soul, and then asked to strive for it. It’s also one of the most forgive them, and that it’s in my best family was brutally murdered during a Him, “How can I forgive people who challenging topics to write about, which interest to do so. killing spree that lasted three months and would do such a thing to an infant?” is why I’ve devoted three consecutive There are other tragedies much more claimed the lives of nearly one million In her heart she heard God’s reply, columns to the subject; however, this profound than what my family has Rwandans. “You are all my children…and the baby final installment will focus on the kind of endured. Any abuse of children is partic- Miraculously, Immaculee survived the is with Me now.” She understood that forgiveness wherein only divine inter- ularly heinous to most of us, but there are slaughter. For ninety-one days she and “the killers were God’s children as well. vention can be credited, and for that rea- dependent, defenseless people of all ages seven other women huddled silently They were barbaric creatures who would son I am calling it “radical forgiveness.” who are also at the mercy of others. And together in the cramped bathroom of a have to be punished severely for their In my own life, most of you know that what about the senseless loss of life at the local pastor’s home while hundreds of actions, but they were still God’s chil- my husband, Carl Cleveland, was falsely hands of criminals in our own city or machete-wielding rapists and killers dren. They were cruel, vicious and dan- accused, tried and convicted of white accidental, random death due to the care- hunted and verbally taunted them outside gerous as kids sometimes can be, but collar crimes he did not commit. The lessness and recklessness of others? their secret, hidden 3’x4’ room. they were still God’s children. They’d Initially, Immaculee survived by hurt others, they’d hurt God, and they immersing herself in prayer for twenty didn’t understand how badly they were KENNER ORTHOPEDIC & SPORTS THERAPY hours a day. In her book, Left to Tell,she hurting themselves. Their minds were describes the mental and spiritual strug- evil, but their souls weren’t. Despite their 3921 WILLIAMS BLVD. gles she endured while thoughts of atrocities, they were children of God, and KENNER, LA 70065 hatred, revenge, defeat, fear, self-pity I could forgive a child although it would 504-443-5152 and doubt tormented her. When she was not be easy.” not in prayer, negative energy increased Immaculee knew she couldn’t ask God and rushed in; and when she prayed, she to love her if she couldn’t love His chil- immediately felt God’s love surround dren, and that was her breakthrough. For her, easing her anxiety and fears. the first time she was able to earnestly As the killing increased and persisted pray that the killers would recognize for weeks, she feared for her family’s their sins and beg for forgiveness them- safety and gradually realized that they selves before they died. Then she heard had probably been massacred. The justi- the Lord’s voice say, “Forgive them; they fiable anger and hatred she felt for the know not what they do.” She slept peace- killers began a war in her soul and she fully that night for the first time since could no longer pray to a God of love entering the bathroom. with a heart full of hatred. As she said, “I It’s highly unlikely that you or I will KENNER’S ONLY CHOICE FOR ORTHOPEDIC PHYSICAL THERAPY tried to pray for them myself, but I felt ever have to face a situation as desperate THERE IS A DIFFERENCE!!!! like I was praying for the devil. ‘Please as Immaculee’s; however, if she could open my heart, Lord, and show me how attain forgiveness and peace of mind in to forgive. I’m not strong enough to her situation, then you and I can do no Se habla Español METAIRIE & WESTBANK LOCATIONS squash my hatred – they’ve wronged us less in ours. I am grateful for her amaz- all so much…my hatred is so heavy that ing and inspiring example, and I encour- it could crush me. Touch my heart, Lord, age you to read her story. It’s changed my and show me how to forgive.’” life, and I pray it does the same for you.★ Immaculee was lost in prayer for days as she struggled with the crisis in her Joey Cleveland is the widow of Carl soul, but God broke through and Cleveland, the Kenner Star Faithwalk answered her prayer in an unusual way. columnist from 1998 until his death July An infant was left to die outside in the 2006. Joey Cleveland can be reached via street near Immaculee’s bathroom win- email at [email protected]. ★ Community SEAS fair set for October

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton (SEAS) will will be open from 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 hold its 19th annual fair, “St. Elizabeth p.m. An LSU football party with a big Ann Seton Remembers,” on October 10 screen television and football pool will and October 11, 2008. Food, wine, beer, take place from 7:00 p.m. until 10:00 Happy games, booths, a $1000 raffle, silent auc- p.m. while the band, Flash Back tion and inflatables will be featured. Chameleon, plays music. On Friday, October 10, SEAS will St. Elizabeth Ann Seton is located in sponsor a seafood fest with beer from Kenner at 4119 St. Elizabeth Drive off of 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. while the band, Platt Drive between Vintage and Joe Halloween! Bobby Cure and the Summertime Blues Yenni Drives. For more details call the ★ plays. On Saturday, October 11, the fair parish office at 468-1441. KENNER ST★R OCTOBER 2008 19 ★ Banking Freddie and Fannie Career Opportunities with the By GLENN DOTTOLO City of Kenner If you got into this situation. As the Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. think leading buyers in the U.S. sec- Ultimately the losses over- The City of Kenner is NOW HIRING!!!! Numerous Freddie ondary mortgage market, both whelmed the two financial oper- opportunities available, including: and Fannie sound like two old companies are mandated to buy ations and the Feds had to step timers who operate a café on good quality mortgage loans in to bail them out. • Accounting Clerk • Assistant Recreation Supervisor Airline Highway, you aren’t too from private banks so that the There were three losers when • Engineer – In – Training far from being wrong. lenders can then re-lend money this happened – the manage- • Plan Reviewer I Freddie Mac, a creative to other homebuyers. Freddie ment who lost their jobs, the acronym for the Federal Home Mac and Fannie Mae were get- investors who lost their invest- For more information on these vacancies or others, please Loan Mortgage Association ting funded by issuing bonds on ments and the taxpayers who visit us online at www.csjobs.kenner.la.us or in person at 1801 Williams Blvd., Bldg C, 2nd Floor, Kenner, LA 70062 which was created in 1970, and Wall Street just like any private will have to pay more taxes You may also reach us by phone at 504-466-5477. Fannie Mae, a creative acronym company. Until the past several because of the rescue by our Equal Opportunity Employer for the Federal National years, an “agency quality loan” government. Mortgage Association which was the gold standard, whereby Unfortunately the politicians was created in 1938, are inde- lending requirements were and lobbyists who helped to cre- pendent government “spon- based on the borrower having a ate the problem moved on to Will the assets you’ve accumulated sored” enterprises (GSEs) that good credit score and a mini- other things and are now think- last through retirement? conduct mortgage financial mum down payment along with ing about how to raise our taxes operations. What this means has the necessary income level to be to pay the bill. Retirement Planning Associates introduces never been very clear since they able to repay the loan. These So what does this mean? If 5% guaranteed for 5 years! Income Edge Plus are private companies, not fed- types of loans were underwrit- you owned stock in one of the eral agencies, but there was an ten to agency standards and sold companies you lost money. If IMMEDIATE Bonus on Deposits AND implicit guarantee in place from to Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae you hold bonds issued by the 10% the U.S. government that it and these classic, plain vanilla two companies you are fine as GUARANTEED 7.2% Income Account Growth would not allow these two insti- loans were not what got the two they will continue to pay you. If tutions to fail. entities in trouble. What hap- you want a mortgage, those Your Income Account Value will double in the first 10 years & quadruple in the first 20 years Guaranteed. On Sunday September 7, pened is that our elected offi- loans will still be available to 2008, that implied guarantee cials, in an attempt to increase borrowers. Call today for details, became real. The United States homeownership and support the But, the Freddie Mac and Retirement Planning Associates government seized both compa- real estate market, decreased the Fannie Mae situation is yet 800-569-2902 nies, which held over three- down payment requirements another reminder that our gov- A participant of the Better Business Bureau CARE program. quarters of the U.S. mortgage and relaxed loan underwriting, ernment can’t give anything industry, and placed both into which led to more loans and away until it first takes it from conservatorship, a type of bank- also much larger loans – espe- someone else.★ GUTTERS – New & Repairs ruptcy that doesn’t involve the cially in California, which has court system. Americans awoke some of the highest real estate Glenn Dottolo, manager of STORM DAMAGE REPAIR that day to find out that as tax- values in the country. Gulf Coast Bank & Trust’s roofing • gutters • siding • fence payers they are now on the hook Unfortunately, that was the Kenner Branch Office on for an additional trillion dollars wrong thing to do and the wrong Williams Boulevard, offers FREE quotes • CALL today in debt. That is real money even place to do it. When California twenty-five years of full service Locally owned & operated to the government. real estate prices were the first banking to his customers. Fully licensed & insured How did this happen and what to tumble, a domino effect Dottolo can be contacted at does it mean to us? To under- occurred causing rising numbers 565-3655. Visit Gulf Coast Bank SAY NO TO DRUGS! stand this you need to under- of loan defaults everywhere and & Trust’s website at www.gulf- Al Home Improvement stand how Freddie and Fannie thereby massive losses by bank.com. of New Orleans ★ 1904 Mississippi Ave., Kenner Government 467-6400 Jouandot appointed to Kenner Housing Authority Jeff Hudgins 512-2196 In September, Kenner Mayor is an administrative consultant Prior to starting his own firm Ed Muniz appointed Charles G. and a partner in the Metairie in 1988, Jouandot was president Jouandot to a post on the firm of Jouandot and and director of Bankers Trust of Kenner Housing Authority Associates. The firm provides Louisiana in Kenner and served Board of Directors. Jouandot consulting services to business- as executive vice-president and replaces Patricia Thomas, es including financial analysis, other vice-presidencies at whose term ended August 15 as personnel management and Jefferson Guaranty Bank. part of a federal court ruling in budget and expense control. A graduate of the University a case that had contested past Jouandot has extensive expe- of New Orleans and Brother appoint- rience in providing financial Martin High School, Jouandot COMPLETE ments to the and technical assistance to pub- is a member of the American PEST & TERMITE CONTROL board by lic agencies, ranging from grant Cancer Society, United Way, Muniz. applications for community the YMCA board of directors, Thomas had programs and receiving and Jefferson Economic served on monitoring grant monies for Development Board and the board for drug prevention, law enforce- Kenner Cares Inc. He lives in 4400 Wabash Street, Metairie, LA 70001 a decade. ment and community develop- the Seton Park subdivision in (504) 888-4941 ★ Charles Jouandot Jouandot ment programs. northwest Kenner. Fax (504) 888-8120 20 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R ★ Retirement & Investing Again! The market’s up!...The market’s down!...What’s a person to do? By RONALD HAMPTON For anyone who ited upside potential but no guarantee to where you claim 100 percent of the event of death or disability. has their savings principal and no limit to losses. gains but also suffer 100 percent of the Bonuses up to ten percent vested in stocks or mutu- We might want to look at where the decreases, in an index annuity your immediately. al funds, every chairman of the Federal Reserve, Ben money can only go up; it cannot go A word of caution: All annuities are day seems to hold another unhappy sur- Bernanke, places his money. According down...If you do not want to take any not the same. There are many different prise. In August it was Freddie and to an article dated July 21, 2008 in risks but still want to play the stock mar- features and liquidity options. Be sure to Fanny and now we see such giants as Investment News, the leading news ket, a good index annuity may be right contact an agent with experience and a Merrill Lynch and Lehman Bros. going source for financial advisors, Mr. for you” (Orman 511-513). good reputation to find the annuity that down the drain. AIG, a giant insurance Bernanke’s largest assets were two Some index annuities offer not only a best suits your needs. Whether you are company, was doing fine until they got annuities, each valued at between guarantee of principal but also unlimited already retired or still accumulating into the sub-prime mortgage business $500,000 and $1 million. We can almost upside gain. This is an excellent option retirement funds, an index annuity may and they are now at risk. The FDIC assume that if there were a better place in any financial climate but even more be just the thing for you.★ recently said that it had some ninety to protect and grow his money the chair- so today. A recent option in some annu- banks on its list for possible failure. man of the Fed would know about it. ities is the addition of a retirement rider Ronald Hampton is the principal of Financially speaking, these are frighten- Many readers will be familiar with guaranteeing an annual gain of at least Retirement Planning Associates located ing times. Suze Orman, the highly regarded finan- seven percent plus significant initial first at 3500 North Causeway Boulevard in So what does a retiree or investor who cial author who also hosts a television year bonuses. Many annuities also fea- Metairie. Hampton is a Certified wants safety and potential growth with show discussing money matters. Her ture some or all of these additional ben- Retirement Financial Advisor™ and reasonable access to his or her money best selling new book, The Road to efits. author of “Retirement Land Mines and do? On one extreme we can invest in Wealth, offers some interesting reading Tax deferral until withdrawal. How to Avoid Them”©. He can be bank CDs, treasury notes or bonds that regarding annuities. She states: “...for 10 percent penalty free annual with- reached at 1-800-569-2902 or have very little risk but very low return. those who do not want to take any down- drawal. [email protected]. Hampton’s At the other extreme we can invest in side risk, the index annuity can be a No annual fees. firm is a participant in the Better stocks or mutual funds that have unlim- good option unlike regular index funds, Waiver of surrender charges in the Business Bureau CARE program. ★ Gardening October horticulture hints By LYNNE DIMM In our area freeze and has the longest blooming October is period during fall, spring and winter, absolutely the best should be planted now. All camellias and month for outdoor sasanquas should be budded now but activities, especially gardening. The take precautions, even though they are cooler temperatures make it an enjoy- not tender plants, as they will be ruined able time to rebuild garden beds. Every during a freeze. year new organic material, peat moss is Citrus fruit will ripen this month, so my favorite, needs to be added to garden local favorite satsumas and navel beds. Use two six-cubic foot bales twice oranges will be plentiful. a year to keep the soil very loose. Add a Most people think spring is the best cup of 15-5 fertilizer every ten feet to time to plant trees and shrubs, but now is the beds, then turn the soil and mix it all actually the time to do landscaping work together. For additional weight in the because plants are not actively growing soil add one bag of compost for every on top and roots will take better. September six feet. In the case of a predicted freeze, out- Because they do not need pre-chilling door tropical plants need to be protected. and display repeated blooming, daffodils It’s a good idea to water plants well and irises are good bulbs to plant. Tulips when a freeze is expected to keep them and hyacinth bulbs, which do not repeat from drying out. bloom, can be purchased now but need Winter vegetables to plant include to be pre-chilled before planting during broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, onions, SUPERVISOR OF THE QUARTER the week between Christmas and New carrots, beets and radishes. A great thing Thuy Tran Binh Nguyen Melissa Knight Year. Along with bulbs, other annuals to is that in Louisiana you can plant some Surveillance Table Games plant in October are snapdragons, kind of vegetable every month of the Tables dianthus, calendulas and alyssum. year. If you have Christmas cactus plants Have a happy Halloween!★ from previous years, put them in a cool place now so they will set buds for holi- Lynne Dimm, owner of Lynne Dimm’s day blooming. Christmas cactuses are Nursery, LLC, located at 27 West 27th available in various colors, last from Street, is a registered and licensed year to year and also grow from cuttings Louisiana horticulturist and landscape if you want to give them to friends. If contractor, is a wholesale grower of bed- you have any old poinsettias, see that ding plants and has over 30 years expe- Call for Advertising InfoTODAY! they receive eight hours of darkness rience in the industry. Lynne Dimm can every night and heavy light in the day- be reached via email at ★ time. [email protected] or by calling Kenner St r • 468-9125 Petunias, the annual that doesn’t 468-5467. KENNER ST★R OCTOBER 2008 21 ★ Health Frozen shoulder: A common cause of shoulder pain By THOMAS R. LYONS, M.D. Frozen shoulder represents a can also be caused by trauma or surgery, with or Surgical treatment options include closed manip- group of conditions which all without a fracture present. Postsurgical and post- ulation, arthroscopic release and open release. In share in common a loss of both traumatic shoulder stiffness often occur with a peri- general, surgical treatment is reserved for patients active and passive shoulder od of immobilization. with continued shoulder pain and stiffness despite range of motion. Motion loss Treatment of frozen shoulder includes both surgi- an adequate trial of nonsurgical treatment. An eval- is due to mechanical restric- cal and nonsurgical options. For shoulder stiffness uation by an orthopedic surgeon is necessary to tion caused by soft tissue contracture or scar tissue of unknown cause or primary adhesive capsulitis, a properly diagnose and treat frozen shoulder.★ formation around the glenohumeral or shoulder supervised physical therapy program for shoulder joint. The causes of frozen shoulder can be related stretching will usually be helpful. The natural histo- Thomas R. Lyons M.D. is a board certified ortho- to injury, surgery or unknown origin. ry of primary adhesive capsulitis is resolution of pedic surgeon practicing at the Orthopedic Center Loss of shoulder motion of unknown origin is pain and stiffness over the course of one to three for Sports Medicine located at 671 West Esplanade called primary adhesive capsulitis. Capsulitis is years. Despite the favorable prognosis, many Avenue in Kenner and in Metairie at 4921 Airline characterized by contracture and thickening of the patients are not willing to suffer the painful restric- Drive. The Orthopedic Center is a multi-specialty shoulder joint capsule which results in restriction in tion of motion for this length of time. Unlike pri- center dedicated to complete musculoskeletal care all planes of motion. People with diabetes are at mary adhesive capsulitis, postsurgical and posttrau- with focused expertise in shoulder and knee care. increased risk for development of adhesive capsuli- matic shoulder stiffness are less likely to respond to For additional information call 467-5900. tis. Adhesive capsulitis in diabetics can be severe, nonsurgical treatment. An initial course of physical often involving both shoulders, and frequently is therapy may be tried but surgical treatment may resistant to all forms of treatment. Frozen shoulder ultimately be necessary. SABELLA’S Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner offers hyperbaric PLUMBING chamber for treatment of wounds SMALL JOBS By ALLAN KATZ Repairs • Drain Cleaning Hyperbaric chambers for treatment of slow-heal- wounds.” Hot Water Heaters ing chronic wounds are still a rarity in the region She said treatments in the hyperbaric chamber • but Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner has one and it typically usually can take anywhere from four to Residential Repairs has proven invaluable in the treatment of a wide fourteen weeks. Servicing Metairie & Kenner variety of ailments, including diabetic foot “We work very closely with our doctors,” wounds, wounds caused by injuries and wounds Laurendine said. “Doctors are always present when 818-0007 caused by severe burns. patients receive treatment in the hyperbaric cham- Sammy Sabella Owner/Operated Clinical Director Lisa Laurendine, RN, CW, says ber. Most of us feel that the hyperbaric chamber is Licensed Master Plumber Over 25 Years Ochsner-Kenner is proud that its facilities include a the gold standard for treatment of carbon monoxide hyperbaric chamber. poisoning, which is always a concern during hurri- Ochsner Home Health “We have an acrylic enclosed chamber that cane season because many people who ride out receives 100 percent oxygen,” she says. “It storms aren’t aware of the precautions that have to Was recently rated in the top 25% of home health agencies enhances the bloodstream of patients who have be taken for safe use of generators in those situa- nationally for excellence in quality patient care. wounds, helps with bone infections and decreases tions.” Is also ranked number 1 in the state and number 13 edema. We see a wide range of patients from Laurendine said patients in the region who suffer in the country for their re-hospitalization rates. Metairie, Kenner, the River Parishes and the entire from chronic wounds and may wish to consider Is accredited by The Joint Commission. region. We see younger patients who have suffered being treated at Ochsner-Kenner should consult Has recently moved to the Ochsner Medical Center-Kenner injuries or burns and geriatric patients who have a their physicians, or they can call her for more infor- building and provides nurses, physical, occupational wide variety of wounds, including diabetic foot mation at 464-8686.★ and speechtherapists as well as social workers and aides covering a 50 mile radius. Ochsner hosts family fundraiser to benefit pediatrics Is bringing Ochsner’s Excellence HOME. 200 West Esplanade Avenue On Saturday, October 18, 2008, from 4:00 p.m. other expenses regarding our smallest patients,” Suite 601 until 7:00 p.m. Ochsner will host an event for local explains Dr. Douglas Moodie, pediatric cardiologist Kenner, LA 70065 842-5585 families as it transforms its Children’s Health Center and chairman of Ochsner’s Department of Pediatrics. at 1315 Jefferson Highway into a fun-filled, family “Now is your child’s chance to return the ‘favor’ fundraiser for Ochsner Pediatrics and the Ochsner for those eventful office visits with a doctor dunking Window Screens Made & Installed Pediatric Family Assistance Fund. booth,” says Dr. Moodie. Physicians up to the chal- The action-packed party includes entertainment by lenge include Dr. Vincent Adolph, Dr. Daniel PATIO COVERS • ROOFING • GLASS-ENCLOSED ROOMS Radio Disney, refreshments by local restaurants, and Bronfin, Dr. Robert Cunningham, Dr. Robert entertainment including large inflatable play stations, Gensure, Dr. Lindhe Guarisco, Dr. Charles Kantrow, • Pool Enclosures • Patio Covers stilt walkers, clowns and magicians, paint-the-pottery Dr. Victor “Sam” Lucas, Dr. Christopher Snyder, Dr. • Carports • Glass Rooms • Insulated Rooms • Room Additions activities, t-shirt art and jewelry making. For adults, Barry Starr, Dr. Fernando Urrego and Dr. Thomas • Replacement • Screened Rooms there will be a silent auction featuring weekend get- Young. Windows • Vinyl Siding a-ways, dining gift certificates and more. Chairing this year’s event are Jennifer Correa and • Gutters “Having a child in the hospital can create a terrible Brandy Whisnant. Tickets are $50 per adult (18 and LICENSED & FULLY INSURED financial burden as well as an emotional burden on over) and $20 per child (toddlers and babies under OVER 35-YEARS EXPERIENCE IN THE NEW ORLEANS AREA families and that’s why we’ve selected the Ochsner two years are free). Patron level tickets for four chil- Pediatric Family Assistance Fund as the primary ben- dren, two adults and a patron gift are available for TRIPLE BBB CONSTRUCTION eficiary of this event; it helps families of hospitalized $250. Call 842-7113 or visit www.ochsner.org for 2158 Kenner Ave. EE TES FR A children by enabling Ochsner help with travel and more information or to purchase tickets. 504-467-6998 IM EST 22 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R ★ Latin American News Celebración Hispana By RAFAEL SADDY The president of Hurricane Gustav and Ike started on the United States September 21. For information in English annually proclaims or Spanish call 762-2321. September 15 Hablemos Claro KTV-76: Hispanic TV through October program with topics of interest to the com- 15 “Hispanic Heritage” month. As in pre- munity, every Wednesday at 9:00 p.m. and vious years, the city of Kenner has once Sunday at 8:00 p.m. again approved a resolution to proclaim Kenner Hispanic Resource Center: 4312 that same time period as “Kenner Hispanic Florida Avenue, September 1-30, numer- Heritage” month. ous events are being offered such as The Celebración Hispana de Kenner and the Pro Bono Project, free legal consultation Latin American Civic Association of for the Hispanic community on civil mat- Louisiana (LACAL) will hold a festival to ters, on Saturday, October 4. For informa- promote and celebrate “Hispanic Heritage” tion call 469-2571. month at the Kenner Heritage Park in Louisiana Breast and Cervical Health Rivertown on October 11 from 3:00 p.m. Program of the LSUHSC School of Public until 10:00 p.m. Events for the whole fam- Health (LBCHP): Monday-Saturday from ily will be available including Latin food, 8:00 a.m.-noon and Monday-Friday from live music, dances and crafts. Admission is 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Mammogram exams free and open to the general public. for women over 40, no need to make an Celebración Hispana de Kenner and appointment. Free exam if you do not have Latin American Civic Association of medical insurance. St. Thomas Louisiana (LACAL), both non-profit Community Health Center, 1020 St. organizations, are proud once more to play Andrew St, New Orleans. Hispanic assis- a key role in “Hispanic Heritage” month tance available. For more information call- and will continue to contribute so that this 529-5560 or 529-5558, extension 213. year’s “Hispanic Heritage” month will be a The Latino Forum: October 17 general memorable experience for all those who meeting, venue to be announced. For infor- participate. This event is possible because mation call 310-6880. of the hard work of members who donate Unidad Hispanoamericana: Everyone their time and talents in the spirit of shar- invited to their party commemorating ing the rich Hispanic culture with their “Hispanic Heritage” month on Saturday, community. April 4 from 8:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m. Four Don’t miss this opportunity to experi- Points by Sheraton Hotel, 6401 Veterans ence first-hand the culture, food, music, Blvd. in Kenner, music by Rumba Buena sights and sounds of the Latin American and D J Pantera. Donation $25. For infor- community. For information call 466- mation call 780-6041 or 834-2020. 1483, 361-3976 or 464-4619. I leave you with this thought: “Make all Community announcements and events you can, save all you can, give all you Asociación Nicaragüense de Louisiana can!” God Bless.★ (ANDELA): September TBA, general meeting and planning for Miss Nicaragua Rafael E. Saddy is president of the Latin event November 15. For information call American Civic Association of Louisiana 466-1483 or 464-4619. (LACAL). Email Saddy at lacal1234@bell- FEMA: Recovery operations have south.net. Correspondence for LACAL can resumed for Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. be sent to P.O. Box 640284, Kenner, LA Additional recovery operations for 70064-0284. ★ Health 39 Ochsner nurses named in “100 Great Nurses of Louisiana” Once a year, 100 of Louisiana’s bright- ing staff,” said Nancy Davis, RN, senior est registered nurses are singled out by vice president and chief nursing officer at Nurseweek Magazine for their outstand- Ochsner. “Nursing can be a demanding ing contributions to the profession at the yet rewarding job and we appreciate the “Great 100 Nurses Celebration.” This dedication and hard work our staff puts year, a record number of Ochsner Health into their profession.” System nurses are named as 39 of the 100 The Ochsner nurses recognized were “Great Nurses”. In 2007, Ochsner had 33 Jennifer Annino, Renee Baggett, Bonnie nurses chosen for the list and in 2006 had Baker, Delana Buquoi, Stephanie Bush, 25. Cindy Cassidy, Beverly Castillo, Janine “This prestigious award is a significant Chapman, Lauren Collins, Jill Donegan, accomplishment for our nursing staff and Mary Dupre, Janie Folse, Jarrett Fuselier, an honor for the institution,” says Dr. Carolyn Gassiot, Stephanie Graci, Esther Patrick Quinlan, M.D., chief executive Guttman, Mae Frances Hitt, Arolyn officer at Ochsner Health System. Honor, Shan Huling, Candice Juneau, The 100 Great Nurses of Louisiana was Edna Klein, Jenna Kleinpeter, John founded in 1986 as a way to recognize MacMahon, Lynn Martin, Lynn outstanding nurses and their accomplish- Mathews, Tammy Mayer, Whitney ments and successes. The honorees are Millet, Latwunya Randall, Donna Rivera, selected by their peers and patients, based Vallerie Rodgers, Karen Sanford, on their humanity, as well as their contri- Michelle Sapp, Brianna Savoie, Barbara bution to the community and the nursing Terrell, Allyson Vedros, Deborah profession. Wadsworth, Elmira Walker, Leslie “We are very proud of our entire nurs- Wingerter and Deborah Wyatt.★ KENNER ST★R OCTOBER 2008 23 ★ Automotive Fall car care tips to prepare your vehicle for the cooler months ahead By SCOTT ZIMMERMAN Milder fall grinding, pulling or a pulsating brake pedal. weather is fast Wipers and Lighting. Begin a routine to approaching, and check wiper blades for cracks and wear, as the seasons change, so do your vehicle’s and replace them immediately if streaking, needs. Heat, humidity and heavy traffic skipping or smearing occurs. It is also may have taken their toll during the sum- imperative that hazard lights, headlights, mer months, but now is the perfect time to brake lights and turn signals are working take advantage of the cooler temperatures properly, for your benefit as well as the by giving your car some attention before safety of others. the first cold snap hits. Whether you’re Belts and Hoses. Check and replace heading back to school, tailgating at the sta- belts that appear to be frayed, glazed or dium or just taking a leisurely drive to cracked and check hoses that are leaking, enjoy the changing leaves, it is recom- brittle, rusted, swollen or restricted. If you mended you tackle a few simple fall car suspect that the belt is loose, press down on care maintenance tasks before setting out, it with your thumb; if it gives more than in order to keep your car running smoothly half an inch, it needs to be tightened. as the mercury begins to drop. Fluid Levels. Check all fluids regularly, Shocks and Struts. Check annually and including brake, power steering, transmis- CHILDREN’S CASTLE • CANNES BRULEE NATIVE AMERICAN MUSEUM replace them if you experience bouncing, sion and antifreeze. These fluids help to MARDI GRAS MUSEUM • SCIENCE CENTER • HERITAGE PARK nose dives or excessive body sway when neutralize internal corrosion, remove debris PLANETARIUM AND MEGADOME CINEMA • THE TRAIN MUSEUM cornering. If worn, they could jeopardize that may have accumulated and keep the MUSEUM HOURS: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. – Tuesday - Saturday your ability to stop, steer and maintain sta- vehicle’s temperature within normal range. bility. The crisp days of fall offer an excellent Children’s Castle Oil and Filter. Check the oil level at opportunity to focus on preventive mainte- every fill-up and change it, along with the nance for your vehicle. These seasonal 501 Williams Blvd. • 468-7231 oil filter, as specified in your owner’s man- service recommendations will help to pre- All performances are on Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. ual. Consider a synthetic for your next oil pare your car for the months ahead, so add change, as it has been proven to last longer, a few minutes to your fall car care routine provide superior cold-temperature per- and make sure it’s ready before the cold October Fun Fest!!! formance and remove more deposits than sets in. Doing so will help it run better, last conventional motor oil. longer and retain its value, while providing OCTOBER 4 – PORTA PUPPET PLAYERS Battery. Battery efficiency drops off safe and reliable transportation for you and present drastically in cold weather and there are your family.★ rarely any signs before failures occur. “IF THE SHOE FITS...” Avoid getting stranded and the high cost of Scott Zimmerman is the owner of Scotty’s The Cinderella Story with super-talented Courtney Anderson towing by having your battery checked to Tire and Automotive, Inc., a family-owned ensure optimum performance. and operated full-service tire and automo- Brakes. Because they are a normal wear tive shop, located at 4200 Williams OCTOBER 11 – GLEN GHIRARDI item for any vehicle, plan ahead and antic- Boulevard in Kenner. Store hours are 7:30 ipate a replacement before they become an a.m.-5:00 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Magical Entertainer expensive problem. Have the system Scotty’s website is “OKTOBERFEST MAGIC” checked by a qualified technician immedi- www.scottystireauto.com. ately if you notice dragging, squealing, OCTOBER 18 – PORTA PUPPET PLAYERS ★ Tourism present Family events scheduled this fall “WIZARD IN A DITHER” come see the puppets – a bat, a skeleton, a black cat & more – at the Pontchartrain Center in a briskly paced Halloween show By SHARON SOLOMON With October 30. This is always a Thanksgiving treat. comes fall and once The Friends of the Jefferson Parish Public OCTOBER 25 – IRWIN ROYES again we start look- Library will hold their annual “Big Book The World’s Smallest Magician ing forward to the Sale” on Thursday, October 30 through upcoming holiday season. This is the time Sunday, November 2. There will be tons of “HALLOWEEN MAGIC” of year that we start to count our blessings, books, records, CDs and tapes for sale that Wear Your Costume!! Candy Treats!! Door Prizes!! and one blessing we all have in common is will be of interest to all members of a fami- our city of Kenner. We live and work in a ly. • safe environment with excellent police pro- The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra tection, a visionary mayor and caring and will perform their Christmas show on Cannes Brulee Native American Museum effective council members. A bright shining December 4. The renowned Myra Mire will 415 Williams Blvd. • 468-7231 star in our city is the Pontchartrain Center. present the Jefferson Ballet in The Our multi-purpose venue can host a myriad Nutcracker on Sunday, December 7. 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. – Tuesday-Saturday of events which families can enjoy this hol- These events are all shows the entire fam- iday season. ily can enjoy. The Pontchartrain Center is OCTOBER 25 - MARJORIE BATTISE, COUSHATTA The Steinhaurer Arts and Crafts Show also host to many, many Christmas parties. Long-leaf Pine Needle Basketry will fill the Pontchartrain Center with all If you are in need of a gorgeous venue for kinds of goodies on Saturday, November 1 the holidays, please give them a call at 465- Marjorie will demonstrate how she creates exquisite baskets in the traditional and Sunday, November 2. 9985 and get more details. Coushatta style. The women of the Coushatta tribe have been making The Louisiana High School Athletic Have a safe and fun Halloween.★ baskets for hundreds of years. With early baskets being constructed from Association is having their annual state vol- cane and then grass, the style of baskets that Marjorie creates of long-leaf leyball tournament on November 12 Sharon Solomon is the marketing director pine needles have been woven since the 1920s. Marjorie was taught to through 15 at the Pontchartrain Center. for the Kenner Convention and Visitors Come and cheer your favorite high school Bureau, located at 2100 Third Street in make these baskets when she was eight years old by her mother or alma mater. Rivertown. Sharon Solomon can be reached Nora Williams Abbey, who was taught by her mother. Don’t forget to mark your calendar for the at 464-9494, via email at annual Jerusalem Shrine Circus held Friday, [email protected] or at www.kenner- Schedule subject to change without notice. November 28 through Sunday, November cvb.com. www.rivertownkenner.com 24 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R ★ Health Be gentle and respect your gut – It is working hard for you By SMITA PATEL, M.D. Do you ever culty concentrating. Unfortunately, more Using Probiotic and Prebiotic Foods and is high in meat intake and low in vegeta- think about how serious diseases such as stomach, colon Supplements. bles and fruits. This type of diet usually hard your diges- and rectal cancer can also develop. According to Huffnagle, trillions of lacks soluble fiber and an unhealthy tive system needs Since the digestive system struggles microorganisms live in the digestive area intake of high refined carbs and sugar to work in order to process your daily and slows down after many years of from the stomach to the colon where the which results in an overgrowth of the consumption of food? Most people start “over working” it develops difficulty in immune system is based. The immune harmful bacteria. This harmful bacteria eating shortly after rising and may have absorbing the right nutrients which can system helps defend the body against ill- leads to the aforementioned problems of their last bite late at night. Considering be also compounded by eating foods with ness. When the body detects an over- constipation, abdominal pain, tiredness, how long people live today, digestive unhealthy additives. “Bad bacteria” growth of harmful bacteria it generates depression, bowel inflammation and systems process what we eat and drink grows and “good bacteria” diminishes. A an immune response that makes people even increased risk of cancer. The United on a daily basis for up to 70 to 80 years. healthful bacterial balance achieved feel sick. An imbalance occurs in the gas- States of America is one of the leading Since most of us are guilty of eating through eating a proper diet is very tro tract essentially when bad bacteria countries for incidence of colon cancer. unhealthy food, it is easy to understand important. A healthy diet should include overcrowds the good bacteria. Probiotic- Good digestion is the key to health. how after many years the “gut” can start plenty of fruits, vegetables, probiotics rich foods or supplements can help cor- Probiotics help with this process. You to have problems, usually a direct effect foods, prebiotic foods and whole grain rect this imbalance and reduce or prevent may be pleasantly surprised how your of all the years of unhealthy and detri- foods, limiting and reducing meat, deep bodily illness. When good bacteria is mental and physical health can improve mental habits which can be linked to gas- fried foods and high carb snacks. present in the gut it helps the immune with probiotics, good diet, exercise and trointestinal (stomach-intestine) prob- Exercising at least three times a week for response not only in that area but all over relaxation.★ lems and other diseases in the body. If at least 30 minutes is very important. the body thus making people healthier. you add the effects of smoking and alco- Foods rich in probiotics, or beneficial Presently the National Institute of Smita Patel, M.D. is the section head hol, common sense tells us that sooner or bacteria, support good digestion and pos- Health is funding research to see if there of Northshore Hospital Medicine at later the “gut” is going to start working sibly help prevent a range of diseases. is a direct correlation of improving the Ochsner Health System. Dr. Patel also slower (constipation), get over stimulat- Prebiotics, or nondigestible foods such as immune system with probiotics. serves as a medical director of Ochsner ed (diarrhea) or a combination of both soluble fiber, stimulate the growth and Probiotic rich foods include aged cheese, Home Health which provides highly spe- (today diagnosed as irritable bowel sys- activity of healthy bacteria in the colon, fermented vegetables, yogurt and kefir cialized medical care to patients on the tem.) Furthermore, since the digestive according to researcher Gary B. because they contain the good bacteria. Southshore and Northshore. Ochsner system is linked to other bodily systems Huffnagle, M.D., a professor of internal However, supplements such as tablets, Home Health is a component of people with “gut problems” also can medicine, microbiology and immunolo- capsules, powders, liquids and sachets Ochsner’s integrated healthcare delivery develop insomnia (trouble sleeping), gy at the University of Michigan Medical containing the bacteria in form are also system dedicated to patient care and edu- intermittent stomach pain, depression, School and the co-author of The available. cation. For more information, call 842- sluggish physical endurance, asthma, Probiotics Revolution: The Definitive The overgrowth of bad bacteria in the 5585 or email [email protected]. mood disorders, panic attacks and diffi- Guide to Safe, Natural Health Solutions colon is typical in the Western diet which

October 2008 For more information call Leisure Service - 468-7268 or 468-7284 CITY HALL ...... 468-7200 ENNER KALENDAR Brake Tag ...... 468-4075 or visit City of Kenner Website: www.kenner.la.us K Children’s Castle ...... 468-7231 Zoning Adjustment Meeting in HALLOWEEN BOO BASH IN KENNER’S RIVERTOWN City Park Pavillion ...... 468-6638 The Council Chamber for 6:00 p.m. 12City of Kenner Council 3 4 Friday, October 31, 2008-6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Meeting in the Council Chamber Civil Service ...... 468-7219 “Bottom Line Luncheon” Piccadilly Cafeteria of City Hall for 5:00 p.m. Clerk of Court ...... 468-7277 Admission will be $5.00 for Adults and Children(Under 2 Years Old-FREE). Fun 12:00 Noon(For info. Barry Haindel 450-8198) Children’s Castle: Porta Puppet Players Code Enforcement ...... 468-6607 games, food booths and a costume contest with prizes will be at this event. University Park Lions Club Meeting at Kenner City Kenner Rotary Meeting @ present “If The Shoe Fits” Also, all laser shows at the Kenner Planetarium and Megadome Cinema will be only Park Pavillion Corner of Vintage & Loyola for Trauth’s (For info. 466-6785) (For info. 468-7231 Ext. 220) Community Development ...... 468-7588 7:15 p.m.(For info. 466-2033) $2.00 Visitors will be treated to a condensed 20 minute “Fright Light” show packed Kiwanis Club of N. Kenner Community Services ...... 468-7293 with Halloween themed music and laser graphics. Pontchartrain Center: The Wedding Expo at the Lake Radisson Hotel @ Williams & Vets. Complaints ...... 468-4040 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. $4.00/Advance Tickets @ 7:00 a.m.(For info. 469-5352) Call 468-7231 for more information $8.00/At the Door (For info. 465-9985) Council on Aging ...... 468-7513 Council Office ...... 468-7245 5 6 7 8 Kiwanis Club of N. Kenner9 10 11 Cultural/Theatre ...... 468-7221 “Bottom Line Luncheon” at Radisson Hotel @ Food Bank ...... 468-7220 Rotary Club of New Orleans Piccadilly Cafeteria-12:00 Noon Williams & Vets. 7:00 a.m. International Airport (For info. Barry Haindel 450-8198) (For info. 469-5352) Children’s Castle:Glen Ghirardi Freeport Science Center ...... 468-7231 the Magical Entertainer 12:00 Noon @ Treasure Chest Finance ...... 468-4052 Casino Glass Room (For info. Kenner Central Lions Club Kenner Rotary Meeting @ presents “Octoberfest Magic” Charles Bryan 468-5413) Meeting for 8:00 p.m. @ Trauth’s (For info. 466-6785) (For info. 468-7231 Ext. 220) Fine Art Gallery ...... 468-7231 2114 Kenner Ave Handicap Services ...... 468-7204 (For info. John Maher 466-8730) KPRD Let’s Sing Program Begins(For more Info. 468- Humane Department ...... 468-7503 7268) Insurance Department ...... 468-7233 City of Kenner Council Leisure Services ...... 468-7268 Meeting in the Council Louisiana Wildlife Museum ...... 468-7231 12 13 14 15Chamber of City Hall 5:00 p.m. 16 17Children’s Castle: 18 University Park Lions Club Meeting at Pontchartrain Center: Porta Puppet Players present Mardi Gras Museum ...... 468-7231 Rotary Club of New Kenner City Park Pavillion Corner of Kenner Rotary Meeting International Gem & Jewelry “Wizard in a Dither” Mayor’s Office ...... 468-7240 Orleans International Airport Vintage & Loyola for 7:15 p.m. @Trauth’s (For info. 466-6785) Show 12:00 Noon-6:00 p.m. (For info. 468-7231 Ext. 220) 12:00 Noon @ Treasure Chest (For info. 466-2033) $7.00 and Museum Welcome Center ...... 468-7231 Casino Glass Room(For info. Kiwanis Club of N. Kenner 16 & Under with paid Adult Free Pontchartrain Center: Interna- Museum Administration ...... 468-7231 Charles Bryan 468-5413) “Bottom Line Luncheon” Radisson Hotel @ Williams & Vets. (For info. 465-9985) tional Gem & Jewelry Show Piccadilly Cafeteria-12:00 Noon 7:00 a.m.(For info. 469-5352) 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Native American Village ...... 468-7231 (For info. Barry Haindel $7.00 and 16 & Under with paid Personnel Department ...... 468-7207 450-8198) Kenner VFW Post #7732 at 2114 Kenner Adult Free(For info. 465-9985) Ave. for 7:00 p.m.(For info. 466-0368) Planning Department ...... 468-7280 Police Department ...... 712-2200 Planning & Zoning Meeting Children’s Castle:Irwin Royes The World’s Smallest Magician Pontchartrain Center ...... 465-9985 19 20 21 in the Council Chamber of 22 23 24 presents “Halloween Magic” 25 KPBA Meeting & Luncheon City Hall for 6:00 p.m. (For info. 468-7231 Ext. 220) Public Works Department ...... 468-7515 Pontchartrain Center: at Radisson N.O. Hotel in Kenner Rotary Meeting Rotary Club of New “Bottom Line Luncheon” Piccadilly @Trauth’s (For info. 466-6785) Cannes Brulee Native American Village: Purchasing Department ...... 468-7261 International Gem & Jewelry Orleans International Kenner at 2150 Veterans Marjorie Batise’s Long-Leaf Needle Basketry Show 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Blvd.(For info. & Reservations Cafeteria-12:00 Noon (For info. 468-7231) Recreation Department ...... 468-7211 Airport 12:00 Noon (For info. Barry Haindel Kiwanis Club of N. Kenner $7.00 and @ Treasure Chest Casino Glass 962-3930) Saints Hall of Fame Museum ... 468-7231 16 & Under with 450-8198) Radisson Hotel @ Williams & Pontchartrain Center: Great Southern Room(For info. Charles Bryan paid Adult Free Kenner Lions Club Meeting for Vets. at 7:00 a.m. Gun & Knife Show-9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Science Complex ...... 468-7231 468-5413) Kenner Central Lions Club Meeting (For info. 469-5352) $8.00 Adults/$2.00 Ages 6-11 (For info. 465-9985) 7:00 p.m. at 2001 18th St. Ages 5 & Under Free(For info. 465-9985) Space Station Kenner ...... 468-7231 ( For info. & Reservations for 8:00 p.m. @ 2114 Kenner 464-1511) Ave.(For info. John Maher KPRD Spooktacular begins Times Picayune ...... 467-1726 466-8730) (For more information 468-7268) Toy Train Museum ...... 468-7231 Rotary Club of New Orleans 29 Kenner Rotary Meeting HAPPY Traffic & Engineering ...... 468-4007 26 International Airport 12:00 Noon 27 28 @Trauth’s (For info. 466-6785)30HALLOWEEN 31 @ Treasure Chest Casino Wastewater Operations ...... 468-7292 Pontchartrain Center: Glass Room Kiwanis Club of N. Kenner Great Southern Gun & Knife Show (For info. Charles Bryan “Bottom Line Luncheon” Radisson Hotel @ Williams & Vets. at 7:00 For FIRE 467-2211 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. 468-5413) Piccadilly Cafeteria-12:00 Noon a.m.(For info. 469-5352) $8.00 Adults/$2.00 Ages 6-11 (For info. Barry Haindel Pontchartrain Center: Friends of Jefferson Parish Public Library Ages 5 & Under Free KPRD Body Workout in the P.M., 450-8198) Pontchartrain Center: Friends of Jefferson Police and Emergencies (For info. 465-9985) Used Book Sale Stretching & Toning, Line dancing, Line Parish Public Library 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. FREE Dial 911 or 712-2222 Dance Advanced and Used Book Sale (For info. 465-9985) Couple Dancing Session 2 Begins 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. FREE (For more info. 4687268) (For info. 465-9985) Red Cross 833-8565 KENNER ST★R OCTOBER 2008 25 ★ People To flush or not to flush (and other Gustav stories) By ED CLANCY As I write this, she went through middle and high The winds died down and Ike passed to back a few days to a news conference Hurricane Ike has school with, Jodi Kanter. It seems our south, heading for Texas and south- during which New Orleans Mayor Ray just “clobbers- Jodi’s parents had moved to west Louisiana. We had settled down to Nagin mentioned he had received a macked” Texas. (You may remember Birmingham after Katrina and were liv- watch TV coverage of the storm that message of support to all of south that original word from my “Katrina ing in a lovely Tudor style home. That’s was going to make a mess of Galveston Louisiana from Prince Charles of Great Guilt” column.) However, this column where we wound up for four days, at the and Houston, when, quite unexpectedly, Britain. As I absorbed the government is about Gustav, because the city of home of David and Sheree Kanter. The came this announcement from the TV official’s latest request, I longed for the Kenner was more affected by that storm three cats stayed in the spacious garage anchor. “Kenner officials have request- day when the people of Kenner would than by Ike. Just about everyone read- and we lived in luxury while Gustav ed that residents once again reduce be allowed to do a “Royal Flush!”★ ing this Kenner Star has an evacuation headed for Louisiana. As it happened, their use of water due to power outages story to tell. This is my story. Sheree and David had been featured on at the sewer lift stations.” Ed Clancy can be reached via email My daughter Alex, 22, piled every- the local NBC station when they moved I don’t know why, but my mind went at [email protected]. thing, including Ozzie (the Siamese), for good to Birmingham, so Sheree Wendy (the gray stripe), Lola (the thought we needed to be on TV, too. GENERAL CONTRACTOR orange and black), and Sofie (the white Hence, Monday night, comes a- parakeet), into the ancient Mercury knockin’ Jen Hale of NBC13, and sud- Sheetrock • Cabinets • Granite Marquis and headed for my friend Guy denly Alex and I, along with fellow King’s estate in Dallas, Georgia, just 30 refugees Linda and Hal Becker of Trim • Carpentry miles this side of Atlanta. Since Alex Mandeville, are TV stars in B-ham on had her trusty GPS with her, we knew the 10 o’clock news. Wood Flooring • Ceramic Tile no fear. We did, however, know traffic – Wednesday night we get the word the No job too big, no job too small! lots of it. power is back on at my house in We didn’t do badly in the beginning, Kenner, so Thursday morning we hit the leaving Sunday around 12:30 p.m., road back home, expecting “Reverse Locally Owned Family Business shrewdly taking Airline Highway. Contraflow Hell.” But, as it turned out, Licensed & Insured We made it clean and green to things were pretty clean and green on I- LaPlace, and ran into a parking lot lead- 59 and I-10 all the way home. When we SES ENTERPRISES, LLC 259-2493 ing to the I-10/I-55 junction (also arrived, all was well except one thing. www.sesenterprisesllc.com known as “Contraflow Hell”). It was We had power, A/C and cable, but gov- about that same time that Ozzie threw ernment officials were beseeching the up in his carrier. We took advantage of residents of Jefferson Parish not to take the bumper to bumper traffic to pull a bath or shower, or do the dishes, or do into the La Quinta parking lot and clean the wash or flush the toilet! up the carrier. I decided to let Ozzie It took a great effort but – for the roam the car while we drove to see if most part – we did as requested. I say that would calm him down. He finally for the most part. I think you can guess settled on my knee (yes, I was driving) which part was the least part. After a and fell asleep. Minutes later he stood couple of days of this, we finally got the up and I noticed he was foaming at the word from all the TV stations: Jefferson mouth. (Yes, foaming at the mouth!) Parish can now flush! I’m certain I Just as my brain wrapped around that heard the sound of ten thousand toilets Family Owned & Operated fact, Ozzie threw up all over my shirt. flushing at the same time, sort of like He was one sick kitty cat. Alex and I during the half-time of any close Super thought he was seriously ill, perhaps Bowl. We took showers, and we washed BREAKFAST, LUNCH & CATERING even dying. After we finally got on the clothes and we cranked up the dish- COFFEES & PASTRIES I-55 heading toward Atlanta, we made a washer and we flushed. Then, about pit stop to allow me to change shirts. three hours later, an anchor on TV says See menu at www.caffelatteda.com Ozzie, now back in his carrier, seemed something like, “By the way, Kenner Call ahead for takeout! to be doing better, but none of the cats reports there are sewer lift stations still would eat anything. We were worried without power, and the people of Mon-Sat 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM • Sunday 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM enough about Ozzie to call my friend Kenner are asked to continue to refrain Nancy Nolan, the cat expert. She reas- from putting water down the drain.” (Kitchen closes at 3:00 p.m. daily) sured me that it was the car trip that was That meant no showers, no dishwash- spooking the cats and Ozzie should be ing, no laundry and no flushing! It was, 5860 CITRUS BLVD. (corner Dickory) HARAHAN alright. however, in my opinion, too late. The 818-0051 818-0053 (Fax) Traffic seemed to pick up quite a bit city of Kenner was already flush with until we got to Brookhaven, flushing. But, good citizen that I am, I Mississippi. It took us two hours to go triedtorefrain. from there to McComb, which is nor- I guess the all-clear came the next mally a half-hour drive. We got off I-55 day, but I heard nothing official. We and somehow found our way to I-20 simply resumed our regular water con- heading for Meridien, Mississippi. sumption, and let the devil take the SAY YOU SAW IT IN THE Suffice it to say it was almost midnight hindmost. when we got to Birmingham, and I Then, along came Ike. Flood prone thought it too late to bother my friend parts of Louisiana didn’t make it Guy and his wife, Susan, in Atlanta. So, through so well, especially having been ★ we started calling around to motels in drenched by Gustav, but in Kenner we KENNER ST R the Tuscaloosa-Birmingham area. didn’t evacuate, we didn’t lose power Nada. No room at the Inns. Then, Alex and we made it through what turned out got a fortuitous text message from a girl to be a mini-tropical storm in Kenner. 26 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R

Generators (continued from page 1) operates the sewerage treatment plant and the status of flooding in every Kenner Kenner residents for decades.” top capacity during storm periods,” she also operated the portable generators. neighborhood. Councilwoman Black said she and Zahn said. “I want to thank Councilman Zahn, Lafourcade said another factor in the “In terms of technology, I think we have are now turning their attention to budget- Mayor Muniz, Mr. Reddy and my col- minimized flooding was a new telemetry moved forward the equivalent of 25 or 30 ary moves that might make it possible for leagues on the Council for their support. system called Supervised Control and years in the last 12 months,” said Kenner to start buying permanent genera- This is a major breakthrough in the long Data Acquisition that monitors the lift sta- Lafourcade. “We are finally developing tors for its lift stations. fight to significantly reduce flooding in tion, allowing city officials in the com- systems and responses that will hopefully “The goal that we all share is having Kenner neighborhoods all across the mand center at the KPD complex to see eliminate some problems that frustrated 100 percent of the lift stations operating at city.★

Sale of airport (continued from page 1) Cantrelle, Jr. to one seat. The St. The Southeast Regional Airport modate 15 million or more passengers a According to law, all members on the Charles Parish Council submitted three Authority grows from an effort by the year. board must be named by September 30 names, of which Governor Jindal will New Orleans Business Council and That presents a problem for both the with the authority meeting prior to select one. Recommended were Daniel Baton Rouge business leaders to con- city of Kenner and St. Charles Parish November 15. Schexnaydre of Destrehan, Daniel vince Governor Bobby Jindal and leg- that have historically opposed a parallel Most political observers say the Songy of St. Rose and Glenn Singleton islative leaders that Louisiana’s eco- runway that would go through the wet- authority will have one of the toughest of Ama. nomic progress depends in large part on lands and increase the capacity of the assignments to be found in current Mayor Nagin controls two seats. He the sale of the Armstrong International existing airport to about 15 million pas- Louisiana politics – how to balance the named Arnold Baker and will recom- Airport to the state, to be followed by sengers a year. Over the years, Kenner’s state’s need for a modern airport that mend three other names, of which the expansion of the airport. The author- leaders have protested the noise and can attract and accommodate more than Governor Jindal will select one. ity will have the power to borrow congestion that the airport has brought 15 million passengers a year while Governor Jindal has yet to name his money and expropriate property in to the city. being fair to the residents of Kenner, two appointees, one of which is required Orleans, Jefferson and St. Charles In a legislative compromise, it was Jefferson Parish and St. Charles Parish to be a resident of New Orleans. parishes. agreed that the authority that would who will have to endure the inconven- Armstrong Airport has historically Hudson, who has taken no official consider the sale of the airport would iences and hazards that come with been highly controversial in Kenner in position on either the sale of the airport include five members from adjacent increased flights over their homes and large part because it is owned by the city or its expansion, noted that, in its pres- parishes and Kenner with three coming businesses, as well as added traffic con- of New Orleans, which has been reluc- ent form, the airport has never achieved from the city of New Orleans. gestion in all three areas. tant to share governance responsibili- the level of 10 million passengers a “I assume when all nine of us have State law requires a two-thirds ties. The airport’s east-west runway year. Many economic experts say that been confirmed that we’ll have a meet- approval of the New Orleans City extends into St. Charles Parish and a for South Louisiana to grow economi- ing with Governor Jindal at which time Council and a New Orleans referendum proposed parallel runway would also cally to its full potential, the region he’ll share his vision with us and give us majority approval before any sale or extend into that parish. needs an airport that can easily accom- our marching orders,” said Hudson. transfer of the airport could occur.★

Levees held through storms MAKE YOUR (continued from page 1) Jefferson Parish were not as fortunate. Williams and Bonnabel boat launch We were blessed to be in the position of parking lots and they were both filled HOME AND GARDEN helping. East Jefferson Levee District with debris,” said Campbell. “We kept employees worked long hours filling and the gates at Bonnabel and Williams A PLACE OF BEAUTY! delivering sandbags to the Lake Borgne closed until the water went down enough Levee District, Lafitte and St. Charles to clearly see the boat launch down and Plaquemines parishes,” said ramps. It was a matter of safety.” LET US DO THE DESIGN WORK! Campbell. “The cooperation among levee dis- LANDSCAPING BY Campbell says the storms left the East tricts, the state, the Corps and the various Jefferson levees saturated with water and municipalities was outstanding. That LYNNE DIMM’S NURSERY, LLC coveredwithdebris.Atleast40treesfell cooperation was facilitated by the new HOURS: M-F 8-3 • SAT 9-12 • SUN By Appt. during the storm and need to be removed post-Katrina inter-operable radio system, 27 West 27th Street • Kenner, LA • 468-5467 Vets to Crestview to West 27th St. from the levee system. “We can’t remove which improved communication among LICENSED MAKING KENNER PRETTY SINCE 1974 INSURED the trees and debris immediately because agencies.” the heavy equipment required for the job Campbell said, “East Jefferson resi- will damage the levees. We need a few dents are concerned because the 100- sunny, dry days to help the levees dry year protection system will not be com- out,”shesays.“Someresidentshave pleted until 2011; however, interim pro- called to complain that we’re behind in tection measures have been put in place our grass-cutting; but again, the saturated since Katrina. The closure structures at levees are making it difficult to keep up the London Avenue, Orleans and 17th Edward Nikolaus, Jr. with our normal grass cutting schedule.” Street canals, and the armoring of the Owner She said the Williams and Bonnabel transitions between floodwalls and earth- flood gates were closed prior to the storm en levees are just two examples of these due to the predicted water elevations for improvements. The current levee protec- Lake Pontchartrain. In addition, the U.S. tion system has improved significantly Army Corps of Engineers closed the since Katrina. Certainly, we should not gates on the 17th Street Canal Interim become too complacent, but it does Closure Structure at Lake Pontchartrain reflect that a vital, intense effort is under- Over 25 Years Experience • Works With Any Insurance Company • Lifetime Warranty to prevent the high water levels experi- way to build a hurricane protection sys- WORLD CLASS COLLISION AND DETAIL CENTER enced during Katrina in the canal that tem that will give us reason to be opti- ★ 2835 Virginia Street • Kenner • 467-7775 divides Orleans and Jefferson parishes. mistic about our future.” “There was over two feet of water in the KENNER ST★R OCTOBER 2008 27

Minimal damage (continued from page 1) tweaking the layout of the main planning pany.” patrols intensively, looking for looters trees and thousands of branches were area so that city officials, police officers, Chief Caraway said there was no and burglars.” down, along with power lines, but the firefighters and EMS technicians could wholesale looting or burglarizing in Lafourcade said city officials feared the damage that was feared did not occur. literally be next to one another, sharing Kenner during the period when most of worst when Gustav loomed in the Gulf of Both Lafourcade and Chief Caraway information and planning their response the city evacuated during Gustav, but Mexico but now regard the storm as a said the city, the KPD, the firefighters and together.” there were incidents and arrests. “We did close call. the EMS technicians will all continue to Chief Caraway was equally pleased. have some looting and burglarizing but “We don’t wish anyone bad luck and tweak their response plans but feel that “We actually changed our deployment of we think we caught most of the perpetra- our hearts go out to the people of Crown they’re on the right track. our patrol cars somewhat so that we could tors,” said Chief Caraway. “As it turned Point, Barataria and Lafitte, as well as the “There have been times in the past get better coverage of the entire city,” said out, some individuals deliberately chose residents of Terrebonne and Lafourche when previous mayors and police chiefs Chief Caraway. “Our officers on the street not to evacuate, thinking they would stay Parishes,” said Lafourcade. “But there were not on the same page during hurri- were the eyes and ears for the command behind and rob the stores and the homes were some moments when we definitely cane season,” said Lafourcade. “That is center. They were the ones who reported of their neighbors. But the good coverage feared that Kenner might have suffered a definitely not the case now. The men and trees down or live wires on the sidewalk. we had allowed us to arrest some looters more major impact than what turned out.” women who serve the city of Kenner are By working so closely together, we got in the act and others after an investiga- Lafourcade said that this time, only three a single team, sharing information, work- great response from the city, from the tion. I think the word is out on the street buildings in Kenner – and just one resi- ing together and backing each other utility company and the telephone com- that when the city evacuates, the KPD dence – suffered major flooding. He said up.”★

Laketown concert Overlook Louisiana (continued from page 1) (continued from page 5) 3:00 p.m. on the Laketown every presidential election since 1972, and his Louisiana based television pro- Meadow just west of the Kenner the winning presidential candidate has gram, “Ringside Politics,” airs at 7:30 boat launch at the north end of carried Louisiana. p.m. on Fridays and at 10:00 p.m. Williams Boulevard. By choosing Sarah Palin as his running Sundays on PBS television station Irma Thomas, the “Soul Queen mate, McCain has not only removed WLAE-TV, Channel 32, and from 7:00 of New Orleans,” will headline much doubt about whether he will win a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on radio station the show along with the leg- Louisiana in November, but he has also WGSO 990 AM in New Orleans and the endary Rebirth Brass Band, the significantly increased his chances of north shore. Crouere is a political analyst zany Chee Weez and the popular overall victory. At least in presidential for WGNO-TV ABC26 and is the political Chee Weez Bag of Donuts. elections, as Louisiana goes, so goes the editor for neworleans.com. Visit Mayor Muniz said the event nation.★ Crouere’s website at www.ringsidepoli- will be a fun way for individuals tics.com or email Crouere at and families to help first respon- ders in Grand Isle who suffered Jeff Crouere is a native of New Orleans [email protected]. heavy damages from Hurricanes Gustav and Ike earlier this month and to say a loud “good riddance to the 2008 hurricane season.” Muniz said the entrance fee for adults is $5 and kids will be admitted free. He said the “Survivors Party” offers a good Rebirth Brass Band time for families and he encour- aged attendees to bring their lawn chairs and blankets. Soft drinks, and beer will be for sale and popular foods from LaBella’s Catering, Smitty’s Seafood and Messina’s Catering in Kenner will also be available. No outside food or drink will be allowed on the concert site.★ Bag of Donuts ★ Community Religious events in October On October 25, at 7:00 p.m. at Loyola can be purchased at Mule’s Religious University, the United Catholic Music Gifts, 2627 David Drive in Metairie, or and Video Association (UCMVA) will by visiting www.unityawards08.com. present the Unity Awards, known as the On October 30, the MIR Group will “Catholic Grammys.” The event honors present an evening with Fr. Petar the achievements and excellence of Ljubicic, O.F.M., from Medjugorje, at St. Catholic artists and musicians from Edward the Confessor Church, 4921 W. around the world in various categories of Metairie Avenue in Metairie. The event music and video production. Scheduled will be preceded by a 6:30 p.m. rosary to perform are Ronnie Kole, John and7:00p.m.Mass.Fr.Ljubicicwillalso Michael Talbot and Tony Melendez, make an appearance at noon on joined by Louisiana artists Trish Foti Wednesday, October 29 at the “Men Of Genco, Kara Klien and Kenner native MIR Prayer Group” held at 3900 Kitty Cleveland, who has also two songs Veterans Highway in Metairie. All men nominated for song of the year. are invited to attend. For more informa- Tickets, which range from $25 to $50, tion call 849-2570. 28 OCTOBER 2008 KENNER ST★R

PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Kenner’s Monthly Community Newspaper KENNER, LA P.O. Box 641654 • Kenner, Louisiana 70064 PERMIT NO. 49 October 2008