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January President’s Report

STCA January 2023 President’s Report

Hello neighbors!  Here’s hoping that everyone had an enjoyable holiday season. The new year brings with it lots of opportunity. We are excited about continuing to improve our neighborhood and making Old Jefferson the best place to live in Jefferson Parish!  

November 2022 Meeting Recap

We had several speakers from Jefferson Parish at our last meeting. Here is a short recap of the information they presented:

Department of Inspection and Code Enforcement

Tramone Chetta, Assistant Director, represented her department. She explained that her department is responsible for issuing building permits and inspecting for building safety among other duties.

The mission statement for the Department of Inspection and Code Enforcement is:

To ensure compliance with laws pertaining to structural development within Jefferson Parish in an efficient manner, and to abate abandoned and blighted structures for the overall safety of our citizens and visitors. 

In 2022, this department employed 28 inspectors, issued 2500 residential building permits and 1100 commercial permits. To learn even more about what they do, please visit their website at:  https://www.jeffparish.net/departments/inspection—code-enforcement

Property Maintenance/Zoning/Quality of Life 

Liza Caluda, Director, spoke about her department’s responsibilities. 

This department is responsible for property maintenance and zoning such as the disrepair of soffit, facia, roof, siding, as well as high grass, parking on sidewalks and other issues. The department issues violations for these as well as other issues that are detrimental to our quality of life in Jefferson Parish. 

Once a violation is issued the property owner will have 5 days to remedy the issue. After that time, the property will be reinspected. If the violation is not resolved within the 5-day period, a legal process begins. Complaints can be made by phone or online. Please visit their website to learn more: 

https://www.jeffparish.net/departments/property-maintenance-zoning—quality-of-life

Flood Plain Management and Hazard Mitigation

Maggie Talley, Construction and Facilities Management Director spoke for her department. 

The mission statement of the Department of Flood Plain Management and Hazard Mitigation is:

To strive to lessen the risk of flooding and implement long-term actions now to reduce the loss of life and property from the impacts of future disasters in Jefferson Parish. 

They provide the following services: 

• Flood Zone Determinations and Flood Map Inquiries

• Education and Outreach for Natural Hazards

• Guidance on Various Mitigation Methods

• Oversight of Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) Programs

• Coordination of Natural Hazards Resilience Efforts

• Jefferson Parish’s Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

• Community Rating System (CRS) Program for unincorporated Jefferson Parish

• Floodplain Solicitation of Views

• Elevation Certificate and Flood Insurance Declarations Page Analysis

Maggie acknowledged that there will be many changes in our flood rating coming in the next few years. This will result in an increase in our flood insurance premiums. The criteria used for issuing these ratings is not clear. Currently, there is legislation pending on several aspects of this new rating program. 

To check out the latest information, please check the website frequently: 

https://www.jeffparish.net/departments/floodplain-management—hazard-mitigation

Neighborhood News

Angela Callais, Assistant to Councilman Deano Bonano, gave us updates on several projects.

The abandoned carwash on Jefferson Highway and Dodge has been demolished along with the empty frame that previously held its sign. 

The gas station/tire shop at Jefferson Highway and Causeway has been issued a demolition notice. The parish will demolish the building and a lien will be put on the property. Update:  We have since learned that the property owner has filed for his own demolition permit. It remains to be seen if this is yet another stall tactic or if he will follow through. The STCA board continues to monitor this situation. We are grateful to Councilman Bonano’s support on this issue. 

As we continue with the beautification of our neighborhood, Chappie Eppling has informed us that the “Welcome Sign”planned for installation on the median at Jefferson Park Ave. and Jefferson Hwy. was delivered but was damaged. Chappie is working with Bryan Parks on a replacement. Bryan assured us that the replacement is in the works. 

Suzanne Falgout, STCA Advisory Board member, has undertaken a huge project. For years we have talked about the lack of proper sidewalks along our stretch of Jefferson Hwy. Some sidewalks are there, some are not. Some are in good condition, some are not. The ability to safely walk on the highway is of great importance to many of our residents. Suzanne has begun the process of investigating to find out exactly who is responsible for the sidewalks and how we can go about having them installed or repaired. This requires sifting through governmental red tape to identify responsibility. We wish Suzanne luck in her endeavor; we are here to support herand we will keep you updated on her progress.

Membership News

All memberships are up for renewal!  If you paid in the last few months of 2022, it would carry over to 2023. Please check with our STCA Treasurer, Rhonda Gauthier if you are unsure of your status. Dues are $10.00 for a single person and $20.00 for a household. Dues can now be paid via PayPal, (a $2.00 fee is accessed for online payments), by mail, or in person at the meetings. You can check out these options at our website:  https://suburbanterrace.org/members/

A reminder!  Suburban Terrace Civic Association has a new Facebook page! Please search for us on FB at Suburban Terrace Civic Association (STCA). Ask to join and invite your neighbors. The page will be a great way to keep you up to date on all the happenings in the neighborhood! We thank Charles Jarreau, STCA Vice-President, for monitoring and maintaining the information on the page. 

January 2023 Meeting

Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at the Pink House (Thomas C. Laughlin Building) located at 4518 Jefferson Hwy. We are using this building until further notice. 

The doors open at 6:30 pm and we will start promptly at 7:00 pm.

Our guest speaker will be: 

​Emily Arata with Ochsner Health System 

Emily will speak about the new expansions that Ochsner has planned for 2023 and beyond. 

Word has it that the STCA Hospitality Committee headed by Jeanie Knesel will be serving king cake at this meeting!  Hope to see you all there!

Sincerely, 

Judy Wolf 

STCA Advisory Board

President’s Report

PRESIDENT REPORT March 2022

NEW MEETING LOCATION for March 8, 2022! 

Joe Yenni Building in Elmwood 

Second Floor Council Chambers

Mardi Gras has come and gone. Hopefully, this Lenten season of reflection will bring forth a surge of renewal for everyone.  It looks like the pandemic is on a decline which makes spring even more beautiful. As the wonders and beauty of spring approaches, your Civic Association is looking forward to springing into action to address new neighborhood initiatives.  I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming general membership meeting on March 8, 2022.  

As spring is approaching and the Shamrocks cover our front yards, and we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with revelry and eating corned beef and cabbage, let us not forget the upcoming celebration of Easter which also symbolizes spring and rebirth. Blessings to you in this Lenten Season, Have a Fabulous St Patrick Day and Happy Easter to All! 

Neighborhood News 

Due to sustained hurricane Ida damage, we are unable to use the Golden Age Center for our upcoming meetings. We are also unable to use the room on the second floor in the gym due to air conditioning repairs. The parish is working diligently to repair the buildings. Our meeting location may change as the year progresses. We will keep you updated. 

A “Welcome to our Neighborhood” sign has been installed at the foot of Dodge Ave and Jefferson Hwy.  Drive by and look at this gorgeous sign. This is just the beginning of this beautification project. The next step will be a garden and then we are hoping for lights. This project was funded by Councilman Deano Bonano, so we want to extend our gratitude to him at upcoming meetings.   

On February 22, 2022, the Suburban Terrace Civic Association Board toured the Big Easy Blend site located on St. George Ave.  This proposal met safety requirements and was approved by the planning board. 

Renewable Energy of Jefferson LLC has made fifteen $1,000 college scholarships available to Jefferson Parish high school graduating seniors, choosing to pursue an environmental-related degree at an accredited university or community college. Please contact TNicholson@riverbirchllc.com to request an application. The deadline for turning in an application is Monday May 2, 2022.

January 2022 Meeting 

This meeting was cancelled due to the surge in Covid cases. 

March 2022 Meeting 

Our March 8, 2022 meeting will take place at the Joe Yenni building in Elmwood in the Council Chambers on the second floor. The doors will open at 6:30 pm and the meeting will start promptly at 7:00 pm. Our guest speaker will be Chief Humane Officer Shannon Neal from the Jefferson Protection & Animal Welfare Services. She will share information on animal abuse, bites, nuisances, abandonment as well as the start and end of the legal process regarding animals.  JPSO will be available with the crime Stats and Councilman Deano Bonano will be available to answer questions pertaining to our neighborhood. 

Upcoming Events 

The following dates have been approved for our General Membership Meetings. 

March 8, 2022 @ the Joe Yenni Building in Elmwood on the second floor 

 
May 10, 2022  

July 12, 2022  

September 13, 2022  

October-Night Out Against Crime TBD   

November 15, 2022  

 RENEW OR JOIN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION!!! BECOME A MEMBER TODAY- A SINGLE MEMBERSHIP IS JUST $10 AND A FAMILY MEMBERSHIP IS ONLY $20. JOINING IS EASY ON OUR WEBSITE suburbanterrace.org OR YOU CAN MAIL YOUR MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT TO: STCA Membership Committee, c/o 304 Central Avenue, Jefferson, LA 70121. WE LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT AND TO MEETING NEW MEMBERS. “ALONE, WE CAN DO SO LITTLE; TOGETHER, WE CAN DO SO MUCH”- Helen Keller  
 

If you have a recommendation for a topic of interest for our neighborhood meetings, please let us know because we are here to meet the needs of our association. There will be a comment box available when you walk into the meeting for suggestions and/or feedback. 

 
 

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT.

Stacey Spies PhD

Vice President STCA

President’s Report


MEETING CANCELED

JANUARY 2022

Due to the recent surge in omicron and so many of our board and guest speakers are either on quantine or have it. We decided for the safety of our members to cancel tonight’s meeting and see you in March. PLEASE STAY SAFE AND KNOW WE ARE ALWAYS WORKING TO KEEP OUR NEIGHBORHOOD THE BEST PLACE TO LIVE IN JEFFERSON PARISH.

PLEASE JOIN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION TODAY!! BECOME A MEMBER TODAY- A SINGLE MEMBERSHIP IS JUST $10 AND A FAMILY MEMBERSHIP IS ONLY $20. JOINING IS EASY ON OUR WEBSITE suburbanterrace.org, AT MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS, OR YOU CAN MAIL YOUR MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT TO: c/o 304 CENTRAL AVE. JEFFERSON, LA 70121

Stacey Spies, Ph.D.
Vice President ST

President’s Report

President’s Report November 2021  

Hoping everyone is moving toward some normalcy after Hurricane IDA. I know I’ve been working on getting repairs to my house and have been going through some challenging times. Contractor fraud is prevalent during disasters. Be leery if you are asked to pay the total cost of a repair upfront. It’s a best practice to get several quotes on a repair. Always check for licenses, insurance, and references. It’s easy to Google a contractor/repair person to get background information on their business practices. The Better Business Bureau is also a great source of information.  

I’ve seen first-hand neighbors helping neighbors during this difficult time. It’s a good feeling knowing that our neighbors care about each other and are willing to help strangers. I would like to recognize Representative Cameron Henry and Representative Laurie Schlegel for their supports during Hurricane Ida. Representative Cameron Henry donated tarps and Representative Laurie Schlegel donated gas. These supplies were distributed to our neighbors in need.  If a member of our association needs assistance, please leave this information at the membership registration desk. 

“Bad things do happen in the world, like war, natural disasters, and disease. But out of those situations always arise stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.” Daryn Kagan 

September Meeting 

Our September meeting was cancelled due to the hurricane and we were not able to have our annual Night Out Against Crime celebration due to sustained damage at the Jefferson Playground Golden Age Center and the gym due to Hurricane Ida. 

Neighborhood News  

We lost a beautiful Live Oak tree next to our newly planted one from our first beautification project on Dodge Ave. due to Hurricane Ida.  The neighborhood association will work with Councilman Deano Bonano and the Parkway Division to replace this tree.  A “Welcome to our Neighborhood” sign is in the development phase.  This project is being funded by Councilman Deano Bonano, so we want to extend our gratitude to him at upcoming meetings.  

November 9, 2021 Meeting  

The meeting will be held at Jefferson Playground Gym ROOM 2. 

Senator Cameron Henry and Representative Laurie Schlegel will attend the November 9, 2021 meeting to discuss the recovery efforts in Jefferson Parish and our state. They will also share infrastructure projects that will improve the quality of our lives. Representatives from Big Easy Blends is seeking a zonal change and will share all their safety information so we can vote on the changes. We will also have JPSO represented to report on crime stats and to answer questions. We are very grateful to all our members for wearing masks during the meetings.  We are asking members to continue to wear masks during the meeting except when eating and drinking to promote a safe environment for all members.   

Upcoming Events  

The following dates have been approved for our General Membership Meetings.  

January 11, 2022 

March 8, 2022 

May 10, 2022 

July 12, 2022 

September 13, 2022 

October-Night Out Against Crime TBD  

November 15, 2022 

If you have a recommendation for a topic of interest for our neighborhood meetings, please let us know because we are here to meet the needs of our association. There will be a comment box available when you walk into the meeting for suggestions and/or feedback.  

THERE IS STILL TIME TO RENEW OR JOIN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION!!! BECOME A MEMBER TODAY- A SINGLE MEMBERSHIP IS JUST $10 AND A FAMILY MEMBERSHIP IS ONLY $20. JOINING IS EASY ON OUR WEBSITE suburbanterrace.org, AT MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS, OR YOU CAN MAIL YOUR MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT TO: STCA Membership Committee, c/o 304 Central Avenue, Jefferson, LA 70121. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT.   

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed people can change the world. It is the only thing that ever has…”  

Stacey Spies, Ph.D.
Vice President STCA

President’s Report

PRESIDENT REPORT JULY 2021

Hoping everyone had a happy Fourth of July celebration. We are very grateful for those that have fought for our freedom. Independence Day is one of the best holidays both for what we celebrate and how we celebrate it. “America is hope. It is compassion. It is excellent. It is valor. “– Paul Tsongas

The heat is upon us and my best advice in dealing with the heat is to take it slow when working outdoors. Drink plenty of fluids before you venture out and take multiple breaks to cool your body temperature down. Remember if you become dizzy, nauseous, lightheaded or your heart is pounding get out of the heat immediately and seek medical attention if needed. Heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration can be life-threatening. Please be safe and if you see a neighbor in need please get involved and offered to help. We have many fragile residence in our area and helping them to bring the garbage can to the curb and back or assisting with moving landscaping debris to the curb for pick up is a great help.

Neighborhood News

“To be a good neighbor is one of life’s richest joys.” The Daily Quibble

“It’s all about being good neighbors.” Ron Pistoresi

STCA is fortunate to have Chappy Eppling spearheading beautification projects in the neighborhood. Dodge Street at Jefferson Highway is the location of the first project. The neighborhood association is working with Councilman Deano Bonano and Jefferson Parish Parkway Division Director, Bryan Parks. Trees have been trimmed and a new Live Oak was planted. A “Welcome to our Neighborhood “ sign is in the development phase. This project is being funded by Councilman Deano Bonano, so we want to extend our gratitude to him at the upcoming meetings. We want all areas of our neighborhood to be appealing. These beautification projects are essential in attracting new families and businesses. If you have recommendations on beautification projects, please submit this information at the membership table.

STCA is also discussing the possibility of fencing in a small area at Jefferson Playground for a dog park. Jefferson Highway is being resurfaced so be mindful of road construction. There is a zoning change proposal for Big Easy Blends located on Saint George Avenue. There will be a representative at the July 13, 2021 General Membership Meeting.

May 2021 Meeting Recap

The General Membership Meeting was held on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at Jefferson Playground Golden Age Center (4100 South Dr.). This meeting address the “The State of the Parish.” Our guess speakers were Scott Walker Council at Large and Deano Bonano, our Council District 2 Representative. It was very interesting to hear about the progress Jeferson Parish is making and specifically projects that impact our neighborhood.

July 13, 2021 Meeting

The Meeting will be held at Jefferson Playground Golden Age Center, (4100 South Dr.). Doors will open at 6:30 PM and the meeting will begin promptly at 7 PM. Allen Dyess the Coordinator of Emergency Preparedness for Jefferson Parish government will be presenting on Hurricane Preparedness. There will also be a presentation by Mr. Sal LaMartina representing Big Easy Blends located on Saint George Avenue adjacent to Pecan Grove. The company is proposing a zoning change from M1 to M2. This shift would go from light manufacturing to Industrial. It is important that you come to the meeting to hear about the proposal, ask questions, and to voice your opinion because any zoning change impacts the neighborhood. We will also have JPSO represented to report on crime stats and to answer questions and propose ideas on how to help keep our neighborhood safe.

We are very grateful to all our members for wearing masks during the meetings. It is evident that we care for each other. We are asking members to continue to wear masks during the meeting except when eating and drinking to promote a safe environment for all members.

Upcoming Events

The following dates have been approved for our General Membership Meetings.

September 14, 2021.

Guest speakers: House of Representative Laurie Schlegel, and Senator Cameron Henry

October – Night Out Against Crime Party TBD

November 9, 2021

If you have a recommendation for a topic of interest for our neighborhood meetings, please let us know because we are here to meet the needs of our association. There will be a comment box available when you walk into the meeting for suggestions and/or feedback.

THERE IS STILL TIME TO RENEW OR JOIN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION!!!! BECOME A MEMBER TODAY – A SINGLE MEMBERSHIP IS JUST $10.00 AND A FAMILY MEMBERSHIP IS ONLY $20.00. JOINING IS EASY ON OUR WEBSITE suburbanterrace.org, AT MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS, OR YOU CAN MAIL YOUR MEMBERSHIP PAYMENTS TO:

STCA MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE,

304 CENTRAL AVENUE

JEFFERSON, LA 70121

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed people can change the world. It is the only thing that ever has…..”

Stacey Spies PhD

Vice President STCA

President’s Report

Presidents Report May 2021

There is still time to renew or join your neighborhood association!!! Become a member today – a single membership is just $10 and a family membership is only $20. Joining is easy on our website at suburbanterrace.org, at membership meetings, or you can mail your membership payments to: STCA Membership Committee,

C/O 304 Central Ave., Jefferson, Louisiana 70121. Thank you for your continued support.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed people can change the world. It is the only thing that ever has…”

STCA has been identified as the strongest civic association in the surrounding areas. It’s not because we are an affluent neighborhood; it’s because of hard work and dedication from our board members and from a membership participation. In order for us to continue our work, we need your participation. Please renew your membership even if you are unable to attend meetings.

We have experienced tumultuous storms over the past month and an increase in total rainfall this April compared to previous months. It’s been a perfect time for us to examine our yard drainage needs and to assess the status of our roof. If you are experiencing roof leaks, this would be a good time to make those repairs before hurricane season starts on June 1, 2021. If you are able, let’s support our local businesses for our needs. The STCA will be reaching out to our local businesses to update the business membership and will identify those businesses that are supporting our neighborhood association. If you know of any local businesses that may be interested in becoming a business member, please submit the names at the membership table.

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Good neighbors make a huge difference in your quality of life. “I always thought I had good neighbors. It turns out I have the best neighbors in the world.” Jim Casey

We welcome a new business in our community on Jefferson Highway and Jefferson Park Avenue., Los Olanchanos, which is across the street from Subway. The restaurant serves hot Honduran food with some Mexican dishes. The owner is warm and friendly and the food has received good reviews on the Next-Door Neighbor app. We love diversity in the neighborhood and look forward to other new businesses.

STCA has begun beautification projects in the neighborhood. Dodge Street at Jefferson Highway is the location of the first project. The neighborhood association is working with Councilman Deano Bonano and the Parkway Division to trim trees, put new signage, and a garden bed with Lighting at the entrance. A 45 gallon Live Oak tree will be planted in the 2nd Median. This project is being funded by Councilman Deano Bonano, so we want to extend our gratitude to him at the May 11, 2021 meeting. Our second project involved purchasing mulch for a garden at Jefferson Playground. We thank those individuals that are tending to this garden. We want all areas of our neighborhood to be appealing. These beautification projects are essential in attracting new families and businesses. If you have recommendations on beautification projects,

please submit this information at the membership table.

MARCH 2021 MEETING RECAP

On March 9, 2021 General Membership Meeting was held at Jefferson Playground Golden age Center (4100 South Drive). Brooke Burmaster, Director of the Streets Department, was in attendance to provide an update and address concerns regarding drainage and street projects.

We were also very fortunate to have the opportunity to meet the candidates that ran for the vacant State Representative position. This vacant position was filled by Laurie Schlegel. JPSO was also present with the neighborhood crime stats from 1st and 4th district for us and answered all concerning questions from our members.

MAY 2021 MEETING

The General Membership Meeting Will be held on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at Jefferson PlaygroundGolden Age Center (4100 South Drive). The doors open at 6:30 PM and we will start promptly at 7 PM. Prepackaged refreshments will be provided. We are very grateful to all of our members for wearing masks during the meetings. It is evident that we care for each other. We are asking members to continue to wear masks during the meeting except when eating and drinking to promote a safe environment for all members. Further guidance will be provided as restrictions continue to be lifted.

This meeting will address the “State of the Parish”. Our guest speaker will be At Large Councilman, Scott Walker and Deano Bonano, our Council District 2 Representative. We especially want to address vacant buildings in our area. One in particular is Jefferson Elementary school and Ochsner’s plan for the building. It is a challenge to minimize vacant buildings on Jefferson Highway; however, we must continue to hold public officials and business owners responsible for maintaining vacant buildings.

We will also have JPSO represented with our finest men in blue to report on crime stats and to answer questions and propose ideas on how to help keep our neighborhood safe.

UPCOMING EVENTS

The following dates have been approved for our General Membership Meetings.

July 13, 2021

September 14, 2021

October – Night Out Against Crime Event TBD

November 9, 2021

If you have a recommendation for a topic of interest for our neighborhood meetings, please let us know because we are here to meet the needs of our association. There will be a comment box available when you walk into the meeting for suggestions and/or feedback.

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Happy Mother’s Day!

Happy Father’s Day!

Happy Fourth of July!

Stacey Spies PhD

Vice President STCA

President’s Report

January 2021

President’s Report

January 2021

JANUARY IS A MEMBERSHIP DRIVE MONTH. THERE IS STILL TIME TO RENEW OR JOIN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION!!! BECOME A MEMBER TODAY- A SINGLE MEMBERSHIP IS JUST $10 AND A FAMILY MEMBERSHIP IS ONLY $20. JOINING IS EASY ON OUR WEBSITE suburbanterrace.org OR YOU CAN MAIL YOUR MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT TO: STCA Membership Committee, c/o 304 Central Avenue, Jefferson, LA 70121. WE LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT AND TO MEETING NEW MEMBERS. “ALONE, WE CAN DO SO LITTLE; TOGETHER,WE CAN DO SO MUCH”- Helen Keller

Mardi Gras is upon us and although the parades have been cancelled, we can still celebrate in spirit. It is a good time to reflect upon the symbolism of Mardi Gras. Everyone knows the colors of Mardi Gras.  Purple represents justice. Green represents faith and gold represents power. During this Mardi Gras season, let’s all draw upon our faith for a happier and healthier new year. Historically, the colors of Mardi Gras were traced back to the first Rex parade in 1872.  Purple was chosen because it is the color of royality, gold was chosen because it is a metal fitting for a king, and green was chosen because it was an acceptable color for a coat of arms. Flags have three colors and so the flag that flew over Carnival was purple, green, and gold. According to legend, Mardi Gras colors influenced the choice of colors for archrivals LSU and Tulane. 

The practice of throwing beads at Mardi Gras was inspired by Renaissance festivals prior to Lent. Revelers tossed things into the air in celebration of the coming fast.  Hopefully this Lenten season of reflection will help faciliatate healing, kindness, and understanding toward others in our community.  I am looking forward to the wonders and beauty of Spring but appreciate this time of reflection. As our community continues to grow and change, I look forward to another year of working with everyone. 

Neighborhood News

JPSO continues to give us encouraging news about our low crime rates in Old Jefferson. Please keep up the great work we do by reporting any suspicious activities and/or suspicious persons. State Representative Charles Henry resigned. There will be an election on March 20, 2021 to fill this vacancy. There are also two important millage renewals for water and sewerage: Consolidated Waterworks District No. 2 and Consolidated Sewerage District No. 1

Accomplishments by STCA in 2020:

  1. Continued with our safe streets initiative to address speeding.
  2. Hosted a successful night out against crime event.
  3. Identified areas of concern in our neighborhood and presented these concerns to our new Councilman.
  4. Have assisted JPSO in reducing crime in our area by promoting awareness and encouraging residents to report any suspicious activities/persons.
  5. Worked with code enforcement to reduce business and residential violations.
  6. Continuing efforts to maintain zoning restrictions are ongoing. We worked in collaboartion with Councilman Deano Bonano regarding rezoning a piece of property in the neighborhood. 
  7. Have encouraged and supported Jefferson Parish for maintaining the trees on Jefferson Highway and have established a committee to spearhead beautification projects within our neighborhood.
  8. Continue to assist and support the individual needs of our association members with regards to neighborhood nusiances.
  9. Added new board members to keep a fresh perspective of our neighborhood needs

November 2019 Meeting Recap

Drainage Director Mitch Theriot spoke about upgrades to the canals and pump stations. The phase I Central Ave Project was completed. The Parish has plans to update waterlines and drainage for the rest of Central Ave. 

There was also discussion about the proposed Mesa development on Cross and St. George. Through negotiations, the project was coverted from a multifamily complex to six houses thanks to Councilman Deano Bonano!

As usual, JPSO was present to discuss neighborhood incidents. Reports indicated juveniles attempting to break into cars and a car jacking in Audobon Trace on Halloween. 

We had a wonderful turkey raffle. A TREMENDOUS THANK YOU to Kim Catalano Realestate, for Donating 10 Turkeys for the giveaway. She brightened up your Thanksgiving and remind us all that this was the season to give from the heart.

January 2020 Meeting

Due to the increase in Covid-19 cases in Jefferson Parish, this meeting was cancelled to help promote the safety of our members. The STCA board continues to meet to plan for 2021. We are looking at a “plant a tree” campaign to beautify the neighborhood and to assist with drainage as the trees mature. We are also identifying other beautification projects that will add lighting and freshen-up entrance points. If you have a recommendation for an area that needs some maintenance/beautification, please send me the information.

Upcoming Events

The following dates have been approved for our General Membership Meetings.

March 9, 2021

May 11, 2021

July 13, 2021

September 14, 2021

October-Night Out Against Crime TBD

November 9, 2021

On March 9, 2021, we have Brook Burmaster Director of the Streets Department scheduled to provide an update and address concerns. We will have 2 candidates speaking for the State Representative seat: Edwin “Eddie” Connick and Laurie Schlegel. We will also reach out to see if there are other candidates for the vacant State Representative position and offer them an opportunity to speak at our meeting. 

If you have a topic that you would like addressed in the future, please let me know. This is your association and we are here to help provide the information you would like to hear about. We will keep you posted regarding the status of having in-person meetings. Safety of our membership is priority. 

Happy Mardi Gras and a Blessed Lenten Season!

Stacey Spies, Ph.D.

Vice President STCA

President’s Report

MARCH GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
March 9, 2021
7 pm – 9pm Jefferson Playground
Room 2
4100 South Dr, Jefferson, LA 70121

Presidents Report

March 2021

There is still time to renew or join your neighborhood association!!! Become a member today – a single membership is just $10 and a family membership is only $20. Joining is easy on our website at suburbanterrace.org or you can mail your membership payments to: STCA membership committee, c/o 304 Central Ave., Jefferson, LA 70121. We look forward to your continued support and to meeting new members. “alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much” – Helen Keller

Mardi Gras has come and gone. Hopefully this Lenten season of reflection will bring forth a surge of renewal for everyone. It looks like the pandemic is on the decline which makes spring even more beautiful. As the wonders and beauty of spring approaches, your civic association is looking forward to springing into action to address new neighborhood initiatives. I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming general membership meeting on March 9, 2021.

Interesting tidbits about the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day
* The Shamrock was considered a sacred plant -The Shamrock, a three-leaf clover, has been associated with Ireland for centuries. It was called “sea Roy” by the Celts and was considered a sacred plant that symbolized the arrival of spring. According to the legend, Saint Patrick used the plant as a visual guide when explaining the Holy Trinity.
* The first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held in America-while people of Ireland had celebrated Saint Patrick, record show that the tradition of a parade began on March 17, 1601 in a Spanish colony in what is now Saint Augustine, Florida.
* Corn beef and cabbage was an American innovation – while Ham and Cabbage were eating in Ireland, corn beef was substituted for ham because it was a cheaper substitute for impoverished immigrants.

As spring is approaching and the shamrocks cover our front yards, and we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with ravelry and eating corn beef and cabbage, let us not forget the upcoming celebration of Easter which also symbolizes the spring and rebirth. Blessings to you in this Lenten season, have a fabulous St. Patrick’s Day and a Happy Easter to all!

Neighborhood News

Our community is growing and changing daily with new businesses, renovation of residential and new construction. In someways it is exciting and in other ways it can be scary. Change always comes at a cost and we have to decide who will pay. Our neighborhood tranquility thrives on the mature trees throughout our area. I have witnessed many healthy mature trees removed from my neighborhood in the name of progress. We as a community must realize the importance of mature trees and expressed our concern for their removal. We should encourage the protection of these mature trees and encourage neighbors to replant reforestation quality trees on their properties. It takes 30 to 50 years for these new trees to give us back what we have removed. Planting trees in the neighborhood is a big initiative for the association this year.

January 2021 Meeting

​Due to The increase in Covid – 19 cases in Jeferson Parish, this meeting was canceled to help promote the safety of our members. The STCA board continues to meet to plan for 2021. We are looking at a “Plant a Tree” campaign to beautify the neighborhood and to assist with drainage as the trees mature. We are also identifying other beautification projects that will add lighting and freshen up entrance points. If you have a recommendation for any area that needs a maintenance/beautification, please send me the information.

March 2021 Meeting

Our March 9, 2021 meeting will take place at Jefferson playground Golden Age Center, (4100 South Dr.). The doors will open at 6:30 PM and the meeting will start promptly at 7 PM.

Brooke Burmaster, Director of the streets department for Jeferson Parish, will provide an update and address concerns.

We are also very fortunate to have the opportunity to meet the following candidates for the vacant state representative position.

Edwin (Eddie) Connick
Laurie Schlegel
Ramen Delaney Jr.

JPSO will also be available with the crime stats and to answer your questions.

Upcoming events

The following dates have been approved for a general membership meetings.

March 9, 2021
May 11, 2021
July 13, 2021
September 14, 2021
October – Night Out Against Crime TBA
November 9, 2021

If you have a recommendation for a topic of interest for a neighborhood meetings, please let us know because we are here to meet the needs of our association. There will be a comment box available when you walk into the meeting for suggestions and/or feedback.

MASKS AND SOCIAL DISTANCING REQUIRED

Stacey Spies, Ph.D.
Vice President  STCA

 

President’s Report

January 2021

President’s Report

January 2021

JANUARY IS A MEMBERSHIP DRIVE MONTH. THERE IS STILL TIME TO RENEW OR JOIN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION!!! BECOME A MEMBER TODAY- A SINGLE MEMBERSHIP IS JUST $10 AND A FAMILY MEMBERSHIP IS ONLY $20. JOINING IS EASY ON OUR WEBSITE suburbanterrace.org OR YOU CAN MAIL YOUR MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT TO: STCA Membership Committee, c/o 304 Central Avenue, Jefferson, LA 70121. WE LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT AND TO MEETING NEW MEMBERS. “ALONE, WE CAN DO SO LITTLE; TOGETHER,WE CAN DO SO MUCH”- Helen Keller

Mardi Gras is upon us and although the parades have been cancelled, we can still celebrate in spirit. It is a good time to reflect upon the symbolism of Mardi Gras. Everyone knows the colors of Mardi Gras.  Purple represents justice. Green represents faith and gold represents power. During this Mardi Gras season, let’s all draw upon our faith for a happier and healthier new year. Historically, the colors of Mardi Gras were traced back to the first Rex parade in 1872.  Purple was chosen because it is the color of royality, gold was chosen because it is a metal fitting for a king, and green was chosen because it was an acceptable color for a coat of arms. Flags have three colors and so the flag that flew over Carnival was purple, green, and gold. According to legend, Mardi Gras colors influenced the choice of colors for archrivals LSU and Tulane. 

The practice of throwing beads at Mardi Gras was inspired by Renaissance festivals prior to Lent. Revelers tossed things into the air in celebration of the coming fast.  Hopefully this Lenten season of reflection will help faciliatate healing, kindness, and understanding toward others in our community.  I am looking forward to the wonders and beauty of Spring but appreciate this time of reflection. As our community continues to grow and change, I look forward to another year of working with everyone. 

Neighborhood News

JPSO continues to give us encouraging news about our low crime rates in Old Jefferson. Please keep up the great work we do by reporting any suspicious activities and/or suspicious persons. State Representative Charles Henry resigned. There will be an election on March 20, 2021 to fill this vacancy. There are also two important millage renewals for water and sewerage: Consolidated Waterworks District No. 2 and Consolidated Sewerage District No. 1

Accomplishments by STCA in 2020:

  1. Continued with our safe streets initiative to address speeding.
  2. Hosted a successful night out against crime event.
  3. Identified areas of concern in our neighborhood and presented these concerns to our new Councilman.
  4. Have assisted JPSO in reducing crime in our area by promoting awareness and encouraging residents to report any suspicious activities/persons.
  5. Worked with code enforcement to reduce business and residential violations.
  6. Continuing efforts to maintain zoning restrictions are ongoing. We worked in collaboartion with Councilman Deano Bonano regarding rezoning a piece of property in the neighborhood. 
  7. Have encouraged and supported Jefferson Parish for maintaining the trees on Jefferson Highway and have established a committee to spearhead beautification projects within our neighborhood.
  8. Continue to assist and support the individual needs of our association members with regards to neighborhood nusiances.
  9. Added new board members to keep a fresh perspective of our neighborhood needs

November 2019 Meeting Recap

Drainage Director Mitch Theriot spoke about upgrades to the canals and pump stations. The phase I Central Ave Project was completed. The Parish has plans to update waterlines and drainage for the rest of Central Ave. 

There was also discussion about the proposed Mesa development on Cross and St. George. Through negotiations, the project was coverted from a multifamily complex to six houses thanks to Councilman Deano Bonano!

As usual, JPSO was present to discuss neighborhood incidents. Reports indicated juveniles attempting to break into cars and a car jacking in Audobon Trace on Halloween. 

We had a wonderful turkey raffle. A TREMENDOUS THANK YOU to Kim Catalano Realestate, for Donating 10 Turkeys for the giveaway. She brightened up your Thanksgiving and remind us all that this was the season to give from the heart.

January 2020 Meeting

Due to the increase in Covid-19 cases in Jefferson Parish, this meeting was cancelled to help promote the safety of our members. The STCA board continues to meet to plan for 2021. We are looking at a “plant a tree” campaign to beautify the neighborhood and to assist with drainage as the trees mature. We are also identifying other beautification projects that will add lighting and freshen-up entrance points. If you have a recommendation for an area that needs some maintenance/beautification, please send me the information.

Upcoming Events

The following dates have been approved for our General Membership Meetings.

March 9, 2021

May 11, 2021

July 13, 2021

September 14, 2021

October-Night Out Against Crime TBD

November 9, 2021

On March 9, 2021, we have Brook Burmaster Director of the Streets Department scheduled to provide an update and address concerns. We will have 2 candidates speaking for the State Representative seat: Edwin “Eddie” Connick and Laurie Schlegel. We will also reach out to see if there are other candidates for the vacant State Representative position and offer them an opportunity to speak at our meeting. 

If you have a topic that you would like addressed in the future, please let me know. This is your association and we are here to help provide the information you would like to hear about. We will keep you posted regarding the status of having in-person meetings. Safety of our membership is priority. 

Happy Mardi Gras and a Blessed Lenten Season!

Stacey Spies, Ph.D.

Vice President STCA