By KEVIN CHIRISlidell news bureauSLIDELL – A Slidell businessmanhas again proven the old adage about“oil and a squeaky wheel.”Thanks to the objections raised byBrian Reine, owner of CamelliaSquare Center on Gause Boulevard,officials with the Department of Transportation (DOTD) did something notseen very often—changing their mindabout a traffic barrier that had beenconstructed in the middle of the busyhighway.The barrier was recently removedfollowing Reine’s complaints, as wellas contact from other business ownersin that area.In the past six months, Slidell drivers began to see small yellow or whiteroad barriers put in place at severalbusy intersections, especially onGause Boulevard. The barriers are actually more like speed bumps andwere put in place so drivers could notmake left or right turns at certainbusy intersections.One of those turn barriers in front ofthe Camellia Square shopping stripleft the owner of that business unhappy, stating it was costing the storesbusiness.(See Barriers, Pg. 9A)By KEVIN CHIRISlidell news bureauMANDEVILLE – Library Board ChairmanChuck Branton will have to wait one moremonth to see if he returns to lead theboard, after a surprise nomination for hisreappointment extended the decision foranother 30 days.The Parish Council was ready to deal lastweek with Branton’s appointment, whichcould mean a five-year term. The sometimes controversial leader of the board hasclearly provided strong leadership for thepreviously troubled group, bringing vast library experience to the position that wentfrom starting as a board member, thenbeing elected chairman two consecutivetimes by his fellow board members.However, a few council members haven’tbeen thrilled with some of his decisions ordealings with other board members, or hisrefusal to meet with the liberal Library Alliance organization that has fought to keepsexually explicit books on the shelves—abattle they lost.Regardless of his occasional run-ins on afew issues, Branton was appointed to theboard a year ago and turned things aroundin a big way, providing leadership thatmoved the sexually explicit books to a restricted section, and is now leading themto set new policies and procedures to ensure that problem never shows up again.(See Branton, Pg. 10A)By KEVIN CHIRISlidell news bureauSLIDELL – The wait is over forSlidell police chief and CityCouncil candidates as voters willgo to the polls this Saturday, May16, to cast the final ballots in the2026 election.Slidell Mayor Randy Fandal hasto be the happiest guy to qualifyfor the elections since he didn’thave anyone oppose him whenhe qualified two months ago,sending him straight ahead forhis first, full four-year term.But there are plenty of other interesting races, headed by theelection for police chief and thefive-candidate field seeking oneof the two City Council At-Largeseats.The Slidell police chief raceshapes with longtime SPD officers Brian Nicaud and TommyWilliams both on the ballot, withboth candidates bringing vastexperience in law enforcementfor the voters to choose between.Williams brings extensive police experience to his bid to become chief with over 30 years inlaw enforcement, as well as timehe served in the military with theU.S. Navy.(See Election, Pg. 10A)COVINGTON – What seemed tobe an over-reaction to an incidentone night at North Shore Beach inSlidell is now sending a 32-year-oldPearl River man to prison for therest of his life, District AttorneyCollin Sims reported.Joshua Michael Delaughter wassentenced to life in prison withoutthe possibility of parole, a mandatory sentence handed down by theJudge Richard A. Swartz followingDelaughter's adjudication as a multiple felony offender, as his priorcriminal history involved violentcrimes.The sentencing follows the January 2026 jury conviction of Attempted Second Degree Murderafter a violent incident on August13, 2023, at North Beach on CarrDrive in Slidell.The victim was stabbed eighttimes in the head, neck, and torsoafter a minor verbal dispute regarding a near-vehicular collision.Evidence presented at trial showedthat the victim had merely tappedon Delaughter’s vehicle to alert himof a potential accident before Delaughter exited his car and initiatedthe life-threatening attack.(See Delaughter, Pg. 9A)This yellow road barrier, preventing left turns into Camellia Square on GauseBoulevard, was removed by DOTD after complaints from the owner of theshopping area. (Staff photo)Police chief, City Council spots on the line‘Squeaky’ businessman getsaction on DOTD barriersLife in prison result of violent act50-year Slidell High alums reuniteReappointmentfor Branton hasone month delayCity elections set on SaturdayThursday, May 14, 2026 Vol. 17/No. 20TODAY’S INSPIRATION“Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the wholeduty of man.” —Ecclesiastes 12:13\"ToTcoTomcomELECT TonsistentlyAbneyVoAbneyoAbney is trulently opbney utlrulytutlyruleteyelney i lyyy s u yntleyoyten ybney ut tuln lyy is ult ntly oVoAerTOM ABNEY COVote TransparencyElection MaAbney is truly one of the gtently op rates with h--CCST President honest egrityOUNCIL ATLARGy & Integrityay 16good guys--someone who ty and int ty.\"Rick FranzoGEBrian Nicaud Tommy WilliamsThe Class of 1976 was the newest group of grads who were inducted into the Slidell High School50-Year Club, during the annual gathering of school grads, held at the Municipal Auditorium.Over 400 attendees from dozens of Slidell High classes came from various states to the fun get-together. See more photos on page 6A. (Staff photo by Kevin Chiri.)
Page 2A Thursday, May 14, 2026 THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENTSLIDELL -- Theskeletal remainsfound near Slidell lastmonth have been positively identified, St.Tammany ParishCoroner Dr. Christopher Tape has said.On April 20, fishersdiscovered what appeared to be piecesof a human skeletonin a body of waternear Slidell. TheSheriff’s Office responded and theCoroner’s Office dispatched investigators, as well. Theremains were collected, examined atthe STPCO, and sentto the Forensic Anthropology and Computer EnhancementServices (FACES) labat LSU.As all three entitiesinvestigated, evidence includingclothing and surgicalimplants pointed toMaurice A. Appleton,who was born in 1959and last resided inSlidell. He had beenmissing for severalmonths. Dr. Tape’sstaff has notified Appleton’s next of kin.The case remainsopen as investigatorswork to establishtime, cause, and manner of death. Foul playis not suspected, buthas not been completely ruled out.Anyone with information is asked to callthe Sheriff’s Office at985-898-2338, SlidellPolice Department at985-643-3131, or theCoroner’s Office at985-781-1150.Coroner identifies remainsfound near SlidellElection: May 16Vote for Tom Abney--City Council At-LargeDr. Andy BensonBrian Glorioso, State Rep.Pat Canulette, Former St Tammany SheriffStephanie Berault, State Rep.Pastor Donald Bryan, 1st PentecostalRepublican Parish Executive CommitteeChaplain David ZieglerAtty. Brice JonesAttorney Tom ThornhillRichard Franzo, Concerned Citizens of St TammanyAG Crowe, Former State SenatorKevin Pearson, Former State Rep.Freddy Drennan, Former Slidell MayorWyatt Williams, Former City MarshallPastor Doug McAllister, Journey ChurchPatrick Burke, Parish Council MemberDavid Cougle, Parish Council MemberDr. Ira PitfieldTom, Fefe andTim Abney“Tom is a Slidell native who truly loves this community and will always do what’s right for our city.” -- Mayor Randy Fandal“We have a unique opportunity to place into office a devoted public servant. We owe it to ourselves, our families and our community to elect Tom Abney to Councilman At-Large for the city of Slidell.”--Slidell Attorney Brice Jones“Tom Abney is a man of integrity who will listen and work tirelessly for a better Slidell.”--Chaplain David ZieglerAs your next city council member, I promise to bring the fix-it mindset that I have acted out my entire life. I have worked in the Slidell business community for over 45 years. My deep connections and love for Slidell is why I am running.--Tom AbneyLocal EndorsementsElection: May 16Early Voting: May 2-9We inst ll vrepaSK FOR TONY jakesrAWASK FOR TONY: airllc.com 228 493 08 228-493-08repair rep•If it's in an RVree Roof.Maintenanc aintenance•We install F or place anythV we can hing!e SLIDELL -- The Hermadel EstatesCarolyn Park-Bayou Cache’ Residents'Association will feature a meet andgreet with candidates for the City ofSlidell on Thursday, May 14, at theAmerican Legion Post, 1680 St. AnnPlace. There will be a potluck dinnerat 6 p.m., followed by the meetingstarting at 6:30 p.m.Attendees will have the opportunityto hear directly from those runningfor Chief of Police and Council Members at Large as they share their plansand priorities if elected. Bring a dish if you can, but no alcohol, please. For questions, call President, Jill Dalier at 504-307-7715.Neighborhood meeting set for May 14
Page 3A THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENT Thursday, May 14, 2026can continue the imhumbly ask for youropportunity to advoa privilege to represeserving as your Distr In 2022, you enand represented. nd ensuring that every resident safety, encouraging smart ngthening our infrastructure, will continue building on this ng-overdue replacement of the te representatives to secure nvestment in Slidell, and worked ve economic development, ncements. A y, I have ife, such as new crosswalks and while investing in projects that y approving a balanced city ined committed to responsible e best in public safety. r our police officers to ensure we ntenance of the W14 Canal, and ugh the strategic acquisition of supported critical drainage o prioritize safer neighborhoods sident of the Council. I have l members to serve as both Vice rm, I was honored to be elected mportant work we have begun r support for a second term so I cate for our community. Today, I ent you, and I am grateful for the rict C Councilwoman. It has been trusted me with the honor of T ydditionallyyimprovements throufor our families, worked diligently toPresident and Presby my fellow council During my first tetogether. can continue the imi lit f libudget each y r, wfiscal leadership by I have also remaattract and retain thebacked pay raises forland to enhance maiimprovements throuearIf l t d IHighway 11 bridge. funding for the lonalongside our statincluding Textron’s insupported positivinfrastructure enhanimprove quality of liT ’oespof District C is heard economic growth, ansupporting public progress by stren If re-elected, I w
I had a most interesting interview last week with a 91-year-old “young” man. Yes, I did say that Joe Songy is still a young man. Well, at least when it comes to his wit, intellect and incredible memory. Thanks to my good friend Audrey Baker at Summerfield I was connected to Joe for my feature story which will appear next Thursday, May 21, in our annual Memorial Day special section. Our newspaper has always published a special edition for both major holidays to honor our veterans, of course with Veteran’s Day being the second one. I usually reach out to the assisted living centers in Slidell to find a veteran with a good story and between Audrey, Erin Krumm at Azalea and Michelle Croas at Summerfield, all have provided some of the best stories ever for our sections. For that, I thank them. Back to Joe—I had a specific request this year when sending out the word I needed a Memorial Day story. When the U.S. started its attack two months ago against Iran, I’m sure you all heard the story of the two pilots who went down in Iran. It has to be the most terrifying thing ever to be flying in the air space of an enemy country, then suddenly realize your plane has been hit and you are going to land in foreign territory. We can all guess what kind of treatment these soldiers might get, especially from terrorists like those in that country. When I heard about the incredible rescue by American soldiers in Iran, to bring back both of those pilots safely, I was so impressed to hear about the training that led to their safe return. Because of that, I was hoping to hear from earlier pilots who had flown into enemy territory, just to find out what kind of training and preparation they had if they had gone down. While Joe gave me a few details concerning that, what I got was a much more fascinating story overall about his life, his time flying into Vietnam—181 total missions—and an unexpected bonus, his love story with Claudette, a woman he was married to for 68 years before she passed away only two months ago. However, the most amazing thing to me about Joe, besides an awesome story I will print about him and Claudette, was the fact this guy was as sharp mentally, and as active, as anyone I know today. Short of going to work every day, Joe may be living at Park Provence, but he is far from someone who is slowly waiting for his final days. When I walked into his apartment, we sat down at a card table in a back room. Turns out, Joe teaches bridge lessons. He called it the “Rolls Royce of card games.” Not only does Joe teach other residents there how to play what is a pretty complicated game to learn, but he had typed up a fourpage instructional manual on every detail about how to play, something he hands out to each new “student.” Later, he took me into another room where he had computers he was working on, cameras he was fixing and more. The guy is a marvel of an individual and proof that God gives many of us the genetics to still be fully functional mentally, even at the age of 91. Thank you Lord! When I stopped by a few days later to ask a few more questions, he was sitting on his sofa with papers all over the place, an open computer, and planning a fantastic memorial service for Claudette. Please make sure to read Joe’s story next Thursday in The Slidell Independent. It will include a sidebar about Joe and Claudette’s love story, which is very heartwarming. The Memorial Day special will also have an additional story this year that was sent to me from former La. Sen. A.G. Crowe, which came from his wife Linda, in reference to her father, Robert Benton McCoin. He also served, but back in World War I in a specially trained ski troop that was a unit which operated in harsh winter conditions and in mountainous terrain. Linda recently came upon a collection of poems her father had written, which focuses on his deep love and loyalty for his country. We have some really cool pictures from that era of service, and will print some of the poems. Remember that if you don’t manage to pick up a copy of our paper, it is free every week on our Facebook site and our website: slidell-independent.com Kevin Chiri can be reached by e-mail at [email protected]. Voters will head to the polls again this Saturday when an array of issues and candidates will be on the ballot, both locally, statewide and for a couple of congressional seats. There are also 13 constitutional amendments to be voted on. The question, however, is how many people will take the time to head for the ballot box? Low voter turnout is a serious problem in the United States, and there isn’t one state, or one community compared to others, that can brag about how different they are. It’s been an ongoing problem for years and continues to remain a mystery about why Americans are so unwilling to take the small amount of time it takes to go vote. Especially here in St. Tammany, the voting process only takes a matter of minutes since we don’t have thousands of people lining up outside the voting sites to do so. The St. Tammany Chamber, to their credit, has been doing their best in recent years to change the situation by running all kinds of ads and public service notices to urge people to vote. Good for them, but unfortunately, very little seems to be having a drastic effect on this situation. It has been said that the key to democracy is participation of the people, yet we are watching as far less than half of the residents in any community are going out to vote, short of the presidential decision every four years. Even the presidential elections, which certainly draw far more interest than local decisions, have only drawn 50 to 60 percent of the registered voters to the polls. And unfortunately, the problem appears to be getting worse as our younger generations are showing less interest in politics, but plenty of interest in video games and Social Media. In St. Tammany Parish we have frequently seen voter turnout around the 20 percent mark—and that means 20 percent of registered voters, which works out to 12 to 15 percent of the overall population. It’s mind boggling to think that so few residents of a community care so little about having a voice in who runs their government. President Trump is the first president in nearly 50 years to have taken on the growing nuclear bomb capabilities of Iran—a threat that is far more real than some would like to believe. The leadership of that country has proven, without a doubt, that they care little about their own people, or their own lives, as long as they can kill Americans. And if anyone remembers 9/11 and several thousand people killed from the Twin Towers attack, then you must realize Iran would not think twice about sending a nuclear bomb to the U.S., if they had the opportunity. You almost think it would take something that serious for Americans to realize our democracy should be taken more seriously, and the leaders of our government—from local to the national level—need to be carefully chosen. We can only hope we never see something so terrible happen to our country to change the minds of Americans about getting involved in the democratic process. But judging from all the efforts to get out the vote, with so little change in the numbers, it appears nothing short of a dramatic event will change what is clearly becoming a more-and-more uninspired electorate when it comes to doing something so easy as going to the ballot box. Page 4A Thursday, May 14, 2026 THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENTSlidell Independent Submission GuidelinesThe Slidell Independent is interested in publishing your information and need pictures and/or stories submitted to the newspaper through e-mail. We run any newsworthy information for free, and generally have it in the paper within two weeks of the time it is submitted. Here is how you can have your information published in our paper: E-mail: [email protected] Please make your story a text file of some kind, preferably a Word file, then attach it to the email. Pictures should be saved as jpg files and also attached. Please try to minimize your pictures to one or two with each special event you send, unless it is something that requires more than a couple of pictures. If you do have multiple pictures to send, you might find it works better to send the pictures in two or three separate e-mails, so the file is not so large to overload the e-mail system. If you have a special event you would like reporter coverage for, please e-mail that in also, and we will consider it for our staff. We assign reporters to local schools for special events. If you have any further questions, call Publisher Kevin Chiri at 985-607-8852 or email him at [email protected] Slidell OpinionsEDITORIALDon’t miss our special Memorial Day editionBY KEVIN CHIRI The Slidell Independent Acuity[ә-KYOO-ә-dee]\"Jonah’s natural acuity made him a model student.\" \"The optician noticed a decline in the acuity of Martha’s sight in recent years.\"“Acuity” shares the same Latin root word as “acute,” a word that, depending on context, can have a similar meaning to the former term. “Acute” can mean “having or showing a perceptive insight,” but it can also mean “experienced to a severe or intense degree.” It has a third meaning as well; in geometry, “acute” refers to an angle of less than 90 degrees.“Acuity” comes from the Latin “acuere,” meaning “sharpen.” The word “acuere” is found in Medieval Latin as “acuitas,” and in Old French as “acuite.”Latin, 16th century — Part of Speech: NounSharpness or keenness of thought, vision, or hearing.What it meansAbout AcuityExamples of Acuity in a sentenceDid you Know?Origin:Voter turnout is embarrassing for Americans THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENT STAFFTHE SLIDELL INDEPENDENTP.O. BOX 3130 Slidell, La. 70459 985-607-8852 [email protected] Slidell Independent is a locally owned and operated newspaper that serves the eastern St. Tammany Parish area, including Slidell, Lacombe and Pearl River. It is distributed through free circulation in the eastern St. Tammany region, while also available for purchase at local stores. The Slidell Independent is published once a week on Thursday, distributed as an A.M. publication. Reproduction of any portion of the paper is not permitted without authorization of The Slidell Independent.‘Your Community, Your Slidell Newspaper’The Slidell IndependentKEVIN CHIRI: Editor and Publisher [email protected] JENNY WEISHEIT: News Editor [email protected]
THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENT Thursday, May 14, 2026SLIDELL -- The St.Tammany Chamber ofCommerce hosted the2026 National CivicsBee’s Regional Competition in Covington onMay 4, 2026, an initiativeaimed at encouragingmore young Americansto engage in civics andcontribute to their communities. Organized bythe U.S. Chamber ofCommerce Foundation,the National Civics Beeis an annual nonpartisancivics competition formiddle school studentsthat increases civicknowledge, skills anddisposition amongyoung Americans, theirfamilies and communities.“Each year, the National Civics Bee reminds us how muchpromise and talent exists in communitiesacross the country. Students step up withthoughtful solutions,bold ideas and a willingness to participate—exactly the qualities ourdemocracy and workforce need. We areproud to support a program that strengthenscivic knowledge andskills for all young people and helps build thefoundation for astronger future.” said Hilary Crow, Vice President, Civics, U.S.Chamber of CommerceFoundation.Students across theNorthshore submittedessays on issues in theircommunities with thetop students selected tocompete in this Regional Competition, alive event featuring tworounds of civics quizquestions followed by aQ&A in which studentsdiscussed their proposals for improving theircommunities. HenrySchneidau from St. Margaret Mary CatholicSchool in Slidell tookfirst place, followed byCarolyn McCormickfrom Monteleone JuniorHigh School in Mandeville and Kaysen Barlowfrom St. Tammany JuniorHigh School in Slidellfor second and thirdplaces, respectively. Thejudges for this year’scompetition were RickDennie, Agent with NewYork Life Insurance; Lauren Navarre, COO/CFOwith Arena Collective;and Bob Warren, Reporter and Editor withThe Times-Picayuneand Nola.com.“We were incrediblyproud to see these students confidently sharetheir ideas and demonstrate such strong civicknowledge,” saidMichelle Biggs, VicePresident of the St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce. “The enthusiasmin the room—from families, schools and communitysupporters—showedjust how important it isto invest in the next generation of leaders.These students gave usa lot of hope for the future.”The first-place winnerreceived a $500 cashprize, tablet and trophyand will advance—along with the other topfinalists—to the statecompetition. The second and third-placewinners received $250and $125 in cash prices,respectively, along witha tablet and trophy. Allparticipants received acertificate. The top statewinners will receivevarious prizes, up to$1,000. The state’s firstplace winner will earn atrip to Washington, D.C.to compete in the National Championship inthe Fall of 2026, wherethey can win a grandprize of a $100,000 contribution to an education savings plan. Thesecond-place finalistwill receive $25,000,and the third-place National finalist will receive $15,000.Henry Schneidau,who earned first placein the Regional Competition, said participatingin the event was bothexciting and rewarding.“It was amazing. I neverwould have thought Iwould have won first,but yeah, it was a greatexperience,” he said. Healso shared that thecompetition helped himgrow personally andbuild confidence inpublic speaking. “I thinkit was good for me toexperience.”The St. TammanyChamber of Commercewould like to thank thesponsors and supporters who helped makethe Regional Competition possible, includingCommunity SponsorsArena Collective andVelocity Digital MediaCompany. Additionalsupport was providedby in-kind donors Acquistapace’s, RainbowChild Care East St. Tammany, Red River Bank,Resource Bank, SweetP’s Treats and UnitedWay of SoutheastLouisiana.The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry will host theNational Civics BeeLouisiana State Finals onJune 27, 2026, in Shreveport. For more informationon the National CivicsBee, visit StTammanyChamber.org/civicsbee. The student essayapplication portal forthe 2027 National CivicsBee competition opensin September 2026.Henry Schneidau from St. Margaret Mary Catholic School in Slidell took first place and received a$500 cash prize, tablet and trophy (center), followed by Carolyn McCormick from Monteleone Junior High School in Mandeville (left) and Kaysen Barlow from St. Tammany Junior High Schoolin Slidell (right) for second and third places, respectively. McCormick and Barlow received $250and $125 in cash prices, respectively, along with a tablet and trophy. All participants received acertificate and SWAG bag with a t-shirt and other goodies. Middle school finalistsadvance to state ffi fl ffl ffi ff fi ff 2054 Gause Blv &%$ffi # \" ! ' \" 2054 G' fi vd. East S lidell | 98 \" # $ffi ($ ' & # &ffi & # ' v ffi on| L \" 85 445 1042 ffi )*# # \" # $ffi ! 85-445-1042 | L ngogroup.net &ffi \" # $ffi \" &ffi - ,&+'#ngoSLIDELL BUSINESS News and NotesPage 5AChamber hosts National Civics Bee Regional CompetitionPLEASEVOTEDAVIDDUNHAMCOUNCIL AT LARGE> Family owned business - Gulf States Marble> United States Army Veteran> Lifelong resident of Sidell> Married 35 years to Thomasina Castillo Dunham - 3 children and 2 grandchildren> District B City Councilman 2018 - presentABOUT DAVID DUNHAM:PLATFORM:I will keep public safety my #1 priority by always supporting the Police DepartmentContinue with drainage projectsAddress blighted propertiesContinue to support local businessesHelp to preserve quality of life for Slidell residentsGET OUT AND VOTEElection Day is May 16, 2026Early voting starts May 2nd-9th 2026
Page 6A Thursday, May 14, 2026 THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENTKeith Green with June HowardGreen (1972) and Dan Ruffin.Staff photos by Kevin ChiriThe Slidell High 50-Year Club added the newest member to theirgroup as the Class of 1976 was inducted at the Slidell MunicipalAuditorium, with a crowd of over 400 total graduates there, coming from many states and a host of different graduatingclasses through the 117-year history of the school. EmceeJohnny Crowe, from the Class of 1968, led the proceedingsalong with 50-Year Club President Ellen Nunez Lamarque, withan appreciative room of grads enjoying a chance to get togetheragain. Lamarque talked about several memorable stories fromthe past when \"cows were chased down the halls, motorcyclesrode down the halls and all of us remember climbing the brickfence around the Slidell Junior High football field, which was tobe the original Slidell High School.\" She thanked God for helpingthe new board and steering committee rebuild the club, whichhad seen reduced attendance for recent years, but had morethan double the previous year with the 400-plus turnout.400 attend SHS 50-year reunionThe oldest grad at theevent was 99-year-oldYvonne Teral Parks,from the Class of 1945.Seen here (seated fromleft) was Dawn ParksPekorik, Parks, and Lillian LeatherburgWilliams (1960). (Standing from left)Jackie Carr (1961) andJanice Warren SwartzJanice Warren Swartz (1961), Joe Ponson (1961).(1961), Paula Nuber and Barbara Ponson.Brenda Case (1967), Karen Hilker Labatut (1975) and John Case.Barbara Mitchell, Don Stripling, Mark Gomez, George MichaelOverby, Helen Warden, Barbara Spence Fleming and JeffFleming, all Class of 1972.Helping to revive the SHS 50-Year Club is this group of organization officers.(From left) Corresponding Secretary John Slinker (1967), Secretary ArleneTaylor (1972), Luncheon Director Kathy Pichon Cancienne (1972), Vice President Kathy Blackstock Long (1972) President Ellen Nunez Lamarque(1972), and Treasurer Glen Gilmore (1972).Gran and Billie Semmes, and Tony Hanson, allClass of 1971.Barbara Cook Ruffin (1967), Michelle Faciane Steinforth (1975), Mark Wolcott(1966), Mackie Wolcott (1975), Tim Wolcott (1976) and Richie Wolcott (1970). OPEN TO A ALL AGESSCLES MMERMORE AAN C THE OEARNQRSU REA ODE TOABOUTDING STTAMMANYLI IBRARY.ORG/SUMM MERREADING
THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENT Thursday, May 14, 2026 Page 7AStaff photos by Kevin ChiriKathy Townsend, Brice Jones and Blair Edwards.The campaigns for judge seats, both in St. Tammany and statewide, are heating up rapidly, especially with the election this Saturday, May 16, that not only has Slidell voters going to the polls for city decisions, but also one position on the LouisianaSupreme Court, between Blair Downing Edwards and Billy Burris. The Slidell meet-and-greet was hosted by Division ‘C’ candidatefor the 22nd Judicial Court, Blair Alford, with a packed house showing up. That election is not until November, but there has already been a flurry of events held parishwide as candidates vie for those seats.Judge candidates prep for upcoming electionsJohn Gallaher, candidate for Slidell Marshall thisNovember, with Blair Edwards and Shawn Torres. Blair Edwards with Fanci and Reed Ingram.Brice Jones with Blair Alford andRachel Catalanotto.District Attorney Collin Simswith Blair Alford.BridgetteBennett,president ofthe East St.TammanyRepublicanWomen,with Blair Alford.Blair Alford with LaurenNavarre Kaufmann.JasonNavarre, Blair Alford, andCharles andKristin Champagne.James Franklin,Parish CouncilmanJimmy Strickland, BlairAlford, BruceJavery and PamFrankllin.
Page 8A Thursday, May 14, 2026 THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENTAmong the packed house at the Southern Hotel were (from left) RonBlitch, Paul Myers, Vanessa Schneider, Parish Chief Administrative Officer Gina Hayes, Monica Williams and Kyera-Marie Lucas.Louisiana Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser was the guestspeaker for the St. Tammany Chamber monthly luncheon, held this time at Southern Hotel in Covington,where he gave an interesting talk about the tourism department that he is heading. Nungesser said thetourism industry in Louisiana brought in 45 million visitors in 2025 and continues to look for ways to utilizethe department to boost business here. He is currentlylooking for a company that would build a tourist convention center at Fontainebleau State Park, while he also highlighted the decision four years ago to have a Louisiana float in the Rose Parade, which willcontinue this year. There were 130,000 roses on the float that promoted New Orleans in particular and Louisiana seafood.LA Lt. Gov. speaks at Chamber luncheon- Kenny is a US NAVY veteran who served his Country honorably, continued his education at Louisiana State University and has been employed with Northrop Grumman Information Technology for 26+ years.- Experience - As the District E Councilman, Kenny turned blight into commerce, funded multiple drainage projects, fostered future economic growth.- Leadership - Kenny was elected by his peers as council President twice. Chairman of contractual oversight and financial oversight committees.- Kenny worked on and helped develop both the municipal and the police pay plan which has led to sustainable job growth, annual salary increases, career advancement opportunities and saved tax payers more than $16M.- Kenny is leading our youth recreation revitalization effort. His plan is transforming our youth recreational spaces into economic growth opportunities, while creating world class amenities for our residents to enjoy.'' ' ''' ' '' ' ' ''' ' ' '' 'fi fifi fi fifi fifi fi fi' ',+*)ffl'' ' ''' ' '' ' ' ''' ' ' '' 'fi fifi fi fifi fifi fi fi' '( +& %$#\" !#\"\"#&ff\" ffi( fl#&ff \"$'' ' ''' ' '' ' ' ''' ' ' '' 'fi fifi fi fifi fifi fi fi' '\" fi( !+(\"$ (\"'' ' ''' ' '' ' ' ''' ' ' '' 'fi fifi fi fifi fifi fi fi' '% fl fl%, fl% % ffi'' ' ''' ' '' ' ' ''' ' ' '' 'fi fifi fi fifi fifi fi fi' '\" &\" &\" fi '' ' ''' ' '' ' ' ''' ' ' '' 'fi fifi fi fifi fifi fi fi' 'fi#&(+fi +)fi &\" &\" #\"\" ##&( fi fi +& &\"+& \"! fffflffiflfflflffi ! ! ! \" fl ! fflffifl ffi ffl !
THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENT Page 9ADELAUGHTER: Man gets life in prisonBARRIERS: Businessowner gets problem resolvedPEARL RIVER – This may only be thesecond year for Pearl River HighSchool to have revived their underwater robotics program that was competing years ago, but the trio ofstudents who are now in charge havecertainly made up for lost time.Coach Mike Hudmon reported thatthe Pearl River “Robo Rebels” teamrecently returned from theNorthshore STEM competition atSoutheastern Louisiana Universityand stunned the 25-team field by taking the grand championship.The victory qualified the team forthe SeaPerch International Challengethat is set for Saturday and Sunday,May 30 and 31, at the University ofMaryland. While the kids have plentyof talent to compete against what isexpected to be 300 teams fromaround the world, they need to raiseseveral thousand dollars to afford thetrip there.Anyone who would like to contribute to these young STEM stars cancontact Pearl River High School at985-863-2591, or e-mail Hudmon at:[email protected] is an underwater roboticsprogram where students build a remotely operated vehicle (ROV). Students learn about basic science andengineering concepts, tool safety,technical applications, problem-solving and teamwork.Hudmon said the challenge atSoutheastern entailed two divisions.First is an obstacle course, where theunderwater robot must go through aseries of procedures, like movingthrough hoops, coming to the surface,then going down again and managingthrough more hoops.That is followed by the MissionsChallenge, which has their robotgoing through a simulation of a majorstorm like a hurricane, then having togo underwater to clean up debris andother items.“The kids were amazing and we’rereally so proud of them,” Hudmonsaid. “Now, we hope the communitywill support them so we can make thetrip to the international competition.”The underwater robot is designedonline by the students, using a 3Dmodel that is then printed out andbuilt.Among the team members, DaytonMoore is a sophomore who wants toserve his country in the military andhas been named the PT Commanderto the school Navy ROTC. He is headdesigner and tethers the RebelMarines ROV.Team Captain Elijah Kreemer is asenior who will be attendingNorthshore Technical and CommunityCollege in Lacombe and will bestudying advanced manufacturingtechnology. He is also overall vicepresident for this school year.Ariya Leger is a freshman who wasthe driver for the obstacle course anddid some 3D modeling later implemented into the robot. Ariya will bethe future head coder for VEX andplans on going to either Southeasternor LSU for engineering, mainly videogame design.Pearl RiverHigh “RoboRebels” teamincludes (fromleft) DaytonMoore, TeamCaptain ElijahKreemer andAriya Leger. PRHS underwater robotics team #1 inLA, raising funds for competitionThursday, May 14, 2026(From Pg. 1A)Reine wrote to state officials earlierthis year after the barriers wereerected, making it clear it was keeping customers away from almost 10businesses in that area.Initially, it appeared unlikely thebarriers would be removed orchanged, although DOTD SpokesmanDaniel Gitlin said that DOTD doesmonitor the effects of their roadchanges to see if there is a reason tochange them.Gitlin said the barriers were put inplace after state officials saw statisticsindicating there was a high number of“correctable crashes” that were occurring there, and the barriers shouldreduce that number.“We conduct research before making any changes to ensure driversafety, which is our top priority,” hesaid. “Any changes are closely monitored for several months after implementation. If issues arise, they will beaddressed.”The newly-installed barrier onGause, near Interstate 10, was leadingto a different kind of road hazard asdrivers who cannot turn left intoCamellia Square, which has tworestaurants facing Gause and severalother businesses, are now going halfway to the traffic light in front ofOchsner hospital, past the barriers,and making an illegal U-turn.Gitlin didn’t comment about that situation other than to reiterate thatDOTD would monitor the effects ofthe road barriers.He said that DOTD statistics showedthere were 21 correctable crashes ina four-year period at that location.When asked what DOTD did beforemaking the decision to install the barriers Gitlin said they held two publicmeetings, but since this DOTD districtincludes St. Tammany and Tangipahoa parishes, the meetings were heldin Hammond and Mandeville.However, the “squeaky wheel” theory proved to be true once again—surprisingly for a big time stateagency—as the barrier was removed.While Slidell has another similarbarrier at the intersection of GauseBoulevard and Pearl Street, half-wayto Military Road, no complaints havebeen publicized about that barrier.Gitlin said the main reason DOTDinstalled the barrier in front of Camellia Square is that heavy traffic at different times of the day had vehiclesbacked up past the entrance to theshopping strip. When the traffic lightwas red and cars were at a standstillin front of the shopping area, it led toa high number of accidents from drivers trying to turn left off Gause intothe parking lot.Gitlin said DOTD has installed similar barriers at many other areasaround the state.(From Pg. 1A)Under Louisiana’s Habitual Offender Statute,the state establishedDelaughter’s status as atriple offender, whichnecessitated themandatory life sentence.Sims praised the finality of the sentence, emphasizing the office'sstance on recidivismand violent crime.“Today’s sentence ensures that a dangerous,repeat offender willnever again have theopportunity to victimizeour community,” Simssaid. “The victim in thiscase nearly lost his lifeover a trivial parking lotdisagreement. This typeof senseless violence,especially from someone with a documentedhistory of felony behavior, warrants the maximum penalty allowedby law. We remainsteadfast in our missionto hold violent criminalsfully accountable.”The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys ChristinaFisher and ShelbyStoop. At trial, Fishersuccessfully argued thatthe sheer number andlocation of the stabwounds - eight in total—demonstrated a clearintent to kill that far exceeded any claim ofself-defense. 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Page 10A THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENTELECTION: Parish to hit the polls this weekendSLIDELL -- Training provided by thenonprofit National Association of Junior Auxiliaries is helping members ofthe Junior Auxiliary of Slidell achieveexcellence in hands-on communityservice.Two members of JA of Slidell attended the Association’s 85th AnnualEducation Conference, May 1-3, at theSonesta Nashville Airport Hotel inNashville, TN. They took part in workshops that focus on service to children and families, fulfilling theorganization’s mission and slogan of“Caring Hearts. Helping Hands.Changing Lives.”Members took part in workshopson leadership, conflict resolution,service projects, chapter finances,use of social media and more. Anawards banquet celebrated chapterachievements and recognized manywho display excellence, creativityand passion in carrying out service tochildren and families. The Junior Auxiliary of Slidell earned the EfficiencyAward. Attendees heard from Annie F.Downs, a New York Times bestsellingauthor and podcast host based inNashville. From May 2025 to April 30, 2026, theJunior Auxiliary of Slidell performeda total of 2120 hours of service, impacting over 3000 people. Its signature projects include Hearts United,which is dedicated to child welfare byproviding school supplies to 9 areaschools, an in-school career fair for7th and 8th grade students at SlidellJunior High, crafting hair bows distributed to local elementary schools,and supporting foster families in St.Tammany Parish.For more information, go tojaslidell.org. d f f tAssisting you to \"\"!\"\"RetirementAnnuitiesLife Insurance\"ture.oday, $#\"! fiff ffl\"ffi!fl ffiffi% R% A% L% Planning% Investment StrategiesOUR SERVICES:and for your fut \"\"!\"\" Jay Badeaux, FinanciaAmbey , al Advisor; Megan Otillioer Andre, Financial Adviso; g o, Office Manager;org ; ff ffSouthern ffiliated.11/2025 Member FINRA/SIPC. www.lincolninvestment.com Investment ffered through Lincoln Investment, Broker r,Advisory services offered through Capital Analysts or Lincoln Investment, Registered Advisers. Securities of -DealerAnchor Financial Group and the above firms are independent and non-afTom Fitzmorris rated 5-Star Restaurant11 9Tues-Sat11am - 9pmTrina Slaughter-Gibson (left), President of Junior Auxiliary ofSlidell, 2026-2027 and Rachel Neal,President of Junior Auxiliary ofSlidell, 2025-2026.JAS attends special conferenceThursday, May 14, 2026(From Pg. 1A)Along with many years with theSlidell Police Department, Williamsworked for a time with the Kenesaw,Georgia Police Department, and alsoworked in the oil and gas industry forfive years.Nicaud started with the SPD in 1990and has worked virtually every jobthey have there, retiring in 2016 before continuing to currently serve asa reserve officer and school resourceofficer in a part-time capacity. Thatgives him over 30 years of servicehere in Slidell.Elections for City Council positionswill bring some new faces to theSlidell governmental body, with fivecurrent members term limited out.However, three of those officials aregoing to try and continue serving byrunning for an At-Large seat. Theelection will not end with a runoff asthe top two finishes will automaticallywin the spots.Five names qualified for the two AtLarge seats, with Councilman Jeff Burgoyne in that number after onlyserving At-Large one term, and having the chance to win another term.Kenny Tamborella from District ‘E,’Leslie Denham from District ‘A,’ andDavid Dunham from District ‘B’ are alltermed out of their current positions,but the trio has all qualified for one ofthe two At-Large positions.Adding a fifth name to the race forAt-Large is Tom Abney, who unsuccessfully ran for the District ‘A’ seatfour years ago.A newcomer will take the council inseveral seats, including District ‘A’where Rene Arcemont and LandonWashington have qualified for the vacant seat; while the same will be thecase in District ‘B’ where newcomersSean Fadely and Fabian Hartley havequalified.District ‘E’ will have a new face asShawn Jones and Nick Spadoni havequalified for that vacant seat; and afourth newcomer will hold the District‘G’ seat, where Suzanne King wasterm limited out and is not running forAt-Large. The two qualifiers in District‘G’ are John Grigg and Tim Rogers.The May 16 election has severalstate and U.S. congressional positionswhich will be on the ballot.The U.S. Senate race has incumbentBill Cassidy being challenged by current Louisiana Treasurer John Flemingin the primary election that now hasseparate Democratic and Republicanprimaries. The new state law allowsIndependents to vote in whicheverparty they want.A vacant spot for the LouisianaSupreme Court has current 22nd District Judge Billy Burris qualifyingagainst Blair Downing Edwards fromHammond, while there will be otherstate elections that include the PublicService Commission and the stateBESE Board.BRANTON: Reappointment is delayed(From Pg. 1A)Through it all, Branton had a fewpublic disagreements with ParishCouncil Jeff Corbin, who was appointed to sit on the board manytimes in place of Parish PresidentMike Cooper. While Corbin acknowledged Branton has done “a decentjob,” he refused to say he would support him for reappointment, whichmeans his one-year term would thenbecome a five-year term. And clearly,not every councilman believes Branton’s work deserved an unchallengedreturn to serve.Rumors had surfaced that even withBranton most likely having enoughvotes to be reappointed due to thestrong work he has put in, there mightbe another name nominated to forcehim to wait another month for theParish Council vote. Had Brantonbeen the only name nominated at lastweek’s meeting, the council couldhave voted him straight in that night.However, Councilwoman MarthaCazaubon proved to be a surprise official who nominated Col. Jason Trewfor the position, meaning the vote willnot take place until the June 4 meeting, even with Trew citing support forthe liberal American Library Association (ALA).Trew had applied last year for theLibrary Director job, and noted on hiscover letter to the board that he would“rely heavily on ALA-accredited professional librarians.” That is the groupwhich was heavily criticized the pastthree years in St. Tammany for openlysaying their intent is to keep sexuallyexplicit books available to “minorswith no restrictions.” The group isheaded by an openly-stated Marxistlesbian.Branton, a lawyer by profession,brought a Master’s Degree in LibraryScience to the board a year ago, afterthe entire group was being re-appointed two years ago. He has a longlist of accomplishments to move theboard forward without the controversy of the past, and said he hasmore he wants to get done.Among his past accomplishments inonly one year was to get the controversial books moved to a restrictedarea, hiring a highly-qualified new library director, getting various newpolicies and procedures passed toensure community standards wouldbe adhered to in ordering new books,and overseeing three major construction projects.Branton noted that over 75 percentof the new policies or resolutions heproposed for the Library Board in hisyear serving have been passed unanimously by the rest of the board. Healso pointed out that when it cametime to hire a new director, he led theway to reject an effort by Parish President Mike Cooper to spend $25,000for a consultant to lead the search,which led to the board hiring a veryqualified new director by spending“less than $5,000.”“I absolutely want to be back on theboard,” Branton said. “I still have a lotI want to get done. We’ve alreadycleaned up the policies to protectkids, and now I want our libraries tocreate policies to help our veteranshave resources to ensure they get allthe benefits they qualify for.”As for his refusal to meet with the Library Alliance, Branton said the organization slandered him and hisfamily during the past book controversy “and threatened my family. I’mopen to meet with almost anyone andlisten to them, even if I disagree withtheir views, but I’m not going to giveany time to people who have threatened my family.”
Thursday, May 14, 2026 Page 11ASoutheastern Louisiana University students from St. Tammany Parish whowere honored recently at theCollege of Arts, Humanitiesand Social Sciences’ honors convocation were, from left,Sophia Maranto and LilyMcKean of Slidell. Marantoreceived the Martina BuckAward in History, while McKean received the Excellence in TheatreAward.Recognized by Southeastern Louisiana University’s College of Business at the college’s honors convocation held May 5 were MilesChase (left) of Mandeville, who received the Outstanding AcademicAward in Economics; Tyler McCoy of Slidell, recognized as the Distinguished MBA Graduate; and Christian Buras of Covington, honored as the Distinguished Graduate in Marketing.THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENT'&%$#&&\"!\" #fiff\"fflffi$\"flff%ffi210/.-,+*)-('&-%$#&\"!' fiffffl-ffifl 2fl) '-fl . !!'&%$#&&\"!\"fi#\"flff%ffi/1.-fl*+-%$#&-(\"!' fiffffl-ffifl ffifl) '-fl . !!' #$&#\" \" %fi%ff\"$fl'-)+--!&+\"\"\"'fffi\"#ff#$ffffl'flff- flffl'fi$ -fi+#+ff -! -!$&!ff+- ff!fl) -(flff-+*)* -fl*+* -*+**+*ffflffl'* -fifffl)ff+*fl*+fl -)!fl- flffl' \"\"\"#&%ffi\"#ffiff\"#,fl$ '*-,+$!+0-+fl+ff-)fl'-(+fl$+**-++fffffl$*+**-)!-( --\"flff) ff+fl)-+*-/-fl'&-\"!*)-'*fffl'+*-+)+&Get an auto insurance quote fromBUSINESS OF HELPINWORKMAN INSURANf A oruto oTired of P TOOor Truck InyTPa in O MUCHsu a ce?m our agency and you mayNG PEOPLE...NCE GROUP IS IN THEM t l ITV InsuranceBoat InsuranceAuto Insuranceminutes to find save thousandsAout how much we can save you!s of dollars a year. It only takes a few e InsuranceUmbrella CoverCommercial InsRV InsuranceHomeowner InsMotorcycle InsuLifragesurancesuranceuranceRenters InsuranGeneral LiabilityFlood InsuranceWorkers CompLife Insurancenceyemanins.comnformation:workmanins.com (98Sli3rd2285) 732-410470461d Floor250 Gause Blvdidell, LAEagentry@workmFor more inast,SLU honors top local students
Page 12A Thursday, May 14, 2026 THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENTsignature sidesspecialties thatexquisite steakScarlet’s SteaksEAKS & S elegant dessertst are paired with and seafoodood offersSTs & SeafSEAFOODMississippi Gulfmost memorabMake your reseand high-class ture sidesY-SPC or viFor reservations plesigna888-PLAf Coast.ble experience on theervation today for the customer service.serts,sit OPENTABLE.COM, elegant desease call9380 Central Avenue • D’IbervillMust be 21 or older. Scarlet Pearl Cae, MS 39540 • 888–752–9772 • ScarletPasino Resort reserves all rights. Gambling proPearlCasino.com •oblem? Call 1-800-522-4700.CLASSICDISHES. DISHESMANYWITHARECLASSICFUNIQUE985-288-4634Slidell, LA 70458348 Robert Blvd.7 D YS A WEEKOpen 6am to 3pm AORITE?DISHES.ARTY HEREwith all your specialty drinks.Fully stocked COFFEE BARBOOK YOUR SPECIAL PWHAT’S YOUR FAVO2 0 2 2R E A DERS’ C HOI C E A W A R D SINTEGHONESTfor over 40 Our comm Our commfor over 40 HONESTINTEGRITYTY ANDyears...mitmentyears...TY ANDRITYAFTER in all we in all weDon’t waMARKET AND EXTENDEWE ACCEPTe do.ait:ED WARRANTIES!Faster, Better S ,Don t waService!ait:SLIDELL — Northshore HighSchool JROTC competed at the2026 Raider National Challenge atFort Knox, Kentucky on Friday,April 17 and Saturday, April 18,one of the nation’s premier events,bringing together over 3,000cadets from across the U.S. and international programs in Germany,Puerto Rico, and Japan. Competingin a highly competitive mixed division of 66 teams, the team set outto break into the top 10 onceagain, with sights set on a top fivefinish.The team is made up of 14cadets, nine males and five females, with three returning national competitors. The remaining11 made their national debut, gaining invaluable experience on thisstage. With a strong foundation offour freshmen, five sophomores,three juniors, and two seniors, theprogram is built for continued success, as all but two graduating seniors will return next year.Northshore High’s JROTC RaiderTeam delivered an outstandingperformance, earning 3rd placefinishes in both the Gauntlet andthe Physical Team Test (PTT), andsecuring an impressive 5th placeoverall out of 66 teams in the entirecompetition, firmly placing themamong the top five teams in the nation and exceeding their originalgoal.Back row from left, Sutton Ladner, Michael Molinary, Nathan Helfer, Avery Bowden, Landon Scott, Madison Brower, Cayden Horvath;(front row) Bryce Buras, Israel Nelson, Daniel Britain, Gloria Chawki, Kayden Smith, Meidys Barrosocruz and Mia Alford.Northshore JROTC earns top placements in competition
THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENT Page 13Affiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl $\"$ #\"! !\"fiffffl ff#\" flfffflffl fi!# !$ fflff# ##fi!! fflffl ! !ff!ffl! ff#\" # ff! fiffffl!ffifl!ffl ffl!ffl! fflffl! !! fflfflffi ffl ffl !fl !fl fl!fl ff fflfflffl ff !ffl! ffi ff ! !!ffl !! ff ff ff ffl !ff ff ffiff fflfflffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl # fflff##!# flff !# fflff# $#fiff# !flfl! !ffffl ffl ff fl !ff fl !ffffl ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl ! fiff ffifl fffifffflffiflflfi ffififlfiffififfiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl ff fi ffff fifi flffi fiffiflfffi fiffifi ffiffl flfifi flffi fififfi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffi ffi ffi ffiffl fflffl ffl flfffl Featuring our greFROM THE S LVA FAFOR OVER 30 YESERVING SLIDELL’S BEST SEALV GGIO F1194 HarboTuesday 11 a.mFriday &11 a.m.Su11 a.mClosed985.64 eatAMILYEARSEAFOODLor Dr. - Slidell- Thursday:m. - 9 p.m.& Saturday:. - 10 p.m.ndaym. - 9 p.m.d Monday41.0464 Featu uring our gre eat Pearl Makers Market offeringvendors, unique findsThursday, May 14, 2026A Farmer’s Market that used to be held in Pearl River has been reborn in a new location and under new leadership after the PearlMakers Market kicked off two months ago in the Jubilee parking lot inPearl River. Started by Wendy Rankin, who is a pop-up vendor herself with her business, WenRays Dill Pickle, Chips & More, thefirst event held in March was “amazing,” she said, with over 40 vendors setting up to sell their products. The next market will be heldagain in the Jubilee shopping center area behind McDonald’s, set forthis Saturday, May 16, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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