Check It Out: St. Tammany Parish Library Podcast: Recent Episodes
St. Tammany Parish Library
Join host Benny Bruce on this entertaining podcast for St. Tammany Parish Library news, discussion, special guests, local history, and coverage of library events that you might have missed. Have fun with library staff on this family friendly podcast and explore the many tools that the library provides to you. For over a decade, the St. Tammany Parish Library Podcast has offered information and entertainment for all age groups in our Louisiana community. Learn more at http://sttammanylibrary.org
Join Us for a Conversation with Joy E. Rancatore
Get ready to be inspired by the incredible Joy E. Rancatore! A renowned author, editor, and mentor, Joy shares her wisdom and experiences with our hosts, Jackie Riecke and Eva Saladino.
In this episode, we delve into the world of writing, publishing, and creativity. Discover how Joy balances her passion for writing with the demands of running her own publishing house. Learn valuable tips on finding time to write and navigating the publishing industry.
Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, this episode is for you. Tune in to gain insights and motivation to fuel your creative journey. (Runtime 41:39)
Three library staff members from three different generations discuss library memories and library services and resources. Featuring Jackie Riecke and Eva Saladino. (Runtime 25:12)
Find out how to access Udemy with just your library card. Udemy is an online learning platform with updated, on-demand video courses across 75 categories in business, technology, design, and more. Learn anytime, anywhere. (Runtime 13:18)
2nd Class Petty Officer Radio Technician Bertram Groene participated in the latter part of the Tunisian campaign and in the invasion of Sicily during World War II.
In this oral history interview, his daughter, Ms. Beatrice Groene, shares her own memories of her father as well as his own recollections of his service time from his personal journals.
Slidell Branch Manager Hilari Melerine joins host Amy Bouton as we continue our branch spotlight with our busiest library in the system, the Slidell Branch. Hear about plans for a future expansion as well as the plethora of services available at this branch. (Runtime 11:12)
Reference librarian Evan Kramer joins host Amy Bouton to discuss a couple of ongoing oral history projects at the St. Tammany Parish Library. The Veterans History Project and the Covid-19 Memory Project. Find out how you can participate and contribute to these projects that will provide valuable information for generations to come. (Runtime 23:27)
On this episode, Susan Badon, Children's Librarian at the Madisonville Branch, talks with host Amy Bouton about the return of storytimes, both in-person and virtually online. Plus, the latest library news. (Runtime 17:19)
On this episode, host Amy Bouton introduces you to Children's Librarian Jessica Aucoin and Reference Librarian Evan Kramer. They'll tell you all about the 2022 Back to School Bash, Saturday, August 6, from 1p.m. – 4p.m. at the Slidell Branch, 555 Robert Boulevard. Bring the entire family to ease back into the school year with your Library by your side!
Special guests include St. Tammany Fire District #1, Slidell Fire — with a real fire truck; professional organizer and library presenter Sherrol "Kay" Schewe from Make My Space, who will offer ideas for making the back-to-school morning routine streamlined and organized; The PopRocks musical duo who will usher in the school year with their upbeat music and fun; Hey Now Productions with a Bubble Party; and Sherri Hansen with Culinary Kids who will demonstrate how to make healthy snacks including energy - boosting granola.
STPL Reference Librarians will help parents and students explore available library databases that make school life easier, and teens will take part in a panel discussion by the Teen Volunteer Council that will include a combination lock tutorial.
For the first-time bus riders, Touch a School Bus with Mrs. Patricia and Mr. Nick. Their two school buses will be available to board and explore, to give the littles a feel for what the first bus ride might be like, also enjoy the Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus StoryWalk®. The Lake 94.7 radio station will broadcast live for the entire party.
Of course, there will be crafts, games, and prizes for the kids! Come ready to have some fun as we gear up for the 2022-2023 school year! This event is free and open to the public. (Runtime 26:05)
Our very special guest on this episode is the award-winning and bestselling author of over 30 books for children: Rebecca Elliott. Her works include Just Because, a book about her daughter Clementine who had severe special needs and her ongoing series Owl Diaries which has sold 6 million copies worldwide. Her new YA novel, 'Pretty Funny' is available now (Published by Penguin Random House). Children's Librarian Ms. Morgan talks to the author about her upcoming Virtual Author Visits at some St. Tammany Parish Library branches as one of our Special Guests for our Summer Reading Challenge "Oceans of Possibilities." Rebecca has prepared a program just for St. Tammany Parish Library patrons that cannot be seen anywhere else. She will welcome you into her home in England and discuss her inspirations, characters, and other fun surprises. Listen for dates, times, and locations. (Runtime 32:01)
Listen to have all of your Summer Reading questions answered. Our Adult, Teen, and Children's Department Heads tell you about sign-up, prizes, events, the Community Kickoff Celebration, and how to log your minutes and win prizes. Sign-up begins May 20th. (Runtime 23:17)
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and NAMI St. Tammany has partnered with St. Tammany Parish Library to share resources and raise awareness. Amy Bouton speaks with Nick Richard from NAMI St. Tammany. Look for displays throughout our branch locations during the month of May, where you'll find resources we have in the Library branches, as well as information from NAMI St. Tammany. (Runtime 16:05)
In this episode, we continue our series of Branch Spotlights with the Pearl River Branch. The branch manager, Ms. Adele Salzer, speaks with Amy Bouton, our Public Relations and Community Coordinator about the history, atmosphere, and available services of this quaint branch that reflects the personality of the small town it serves. Also, in the Music Spotlight, we rewind more than 50 years to revisit what has been called the greatest album of all time: Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On." (Runtime 24:42)
Want to know how to get started downloading eBooks or Audiobooks to your mobile device? How about music, movies, and magazines? Well this is the show for you. Robert Barnes, Reference Librarian at the Madisonville Branch, talks with host Amy Bouton to discuss what is available for you to download and stream on your portable devices as well as laptop and desktop computers. Plus, catch up on the latest Library News. (Runtime: 14:55)
In this episode, we continue a series of segments that spotlight each of the branches of the St. Tammany Parish Library. The Bush Branch is spotlighted in this episode. The branch manager, Ms. Susan Taggert, speaks with Amy Bouton, our Public Relations and Community Coordinator about the history and available services of this rural branch that serves a large area in our parish. Also, in the Music Spotlight, we showcase a genre that is always near the top of our most circulated content: classical music. (Runtime 22:12)
On this episode, we begin a series of segments that spotlight each of our branches of the St. Tammany Parish Library, starting with the Abita Springs Branch. The branch manager, Ms. Kay Redd, speaks with Amy Bouton, our Public Relations and Community Coordinator about the history, atmosphere, and available services. Also, in the Music Spotlight, a Cold War throwback that seems as timely today as it did in 1984. Frankie Goes to Hollywood with "Two Tribes." (Runtime 16:37)
Our guest on this episode is Lynn Bardell, Reference Librarian at the Covington Branch of St. Tammany Parish Library. She joins Public Relations and Community Coordinator Amy Bouton to discuss some of the new library resources aimed at streamlining the process of finding funding, donations, and grants for organizations as well as individuals.
Also in this episode, we continue celebrating Black History Month with the music of the legendary Etta James. (Runtime 18:24)
"Black Life In America", "Ethnic Diversity Source", and "The Wall Street Journal" are new databases the library has added. Head of Reference, Noelle Williams joins Amy Bouton to discuss how to access these great new sources. Also, we feature Bessie Smith in the Music Spotlight. (Runtime 21:45)
Local Author and Historian Bonnie Vanney discusses her book "The Lost & Forgotten Communities of Chef Menteur-Rigolets and Lake St. Catherine in Orleans Parish" in this encore presentation podcast. (Runtime 11:29)
Meet two of our Children's Librarians and hear about upcoming Storytimes and programs for kids at the library. Also, poet Amanda Gorman shares her latest verse of hope for the new year "New Day's Lyric." (Runtime 20:15)
Crafting, Painting, Yoga, Scrapbooking...Hear all about the wide range of programs for Adults at your library. (Runtime 25:48)
Enjoy the retelling of a holiday classic, "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henri. It's the story of Jim and Della, a poor, young married couple who don't have enough money to buy each other Christmas gifts. (Runtime 21:20)
Best selling Children's Author Eric Litwin talks with our own Ms. Morgan from the Mandeville Branch about his books, songs, and the importance of Early Literacy. (Runtime 23:10)
Hear the famous "War of the Worlds" 1938 radio broadcast that sent the nation into a panic. (Runtime 1:06:10)
Hear all about our best resources and databases for students of all ages. Our Public Relations and Community Coordinator Amy Bouton introduces you to the Reference Department Head Noelle Williams. Also, music from Sweet Crude. (Runtime 29:25)
Amy Bouton (Public Relations and Community Coordinator for St. Tammany Parish Library) talks to our Teen Librarians about TEEN-TOBER, our month-long celebration for teens. Also, Jon Batiste is our Music Spotlight. (Runtime 22:36)
Hear all about the new STPL Mobile App for iPhone. Also, find out how to view video tutorials for ALL of our research databases. Plus, find out our current operating hours for all branches and a music spotlight. (Runtime: 19:20)
Warrant Officer William Bode was born in St. Joseph, Missouri in 1923. After high school, he worked as a salesman for a surgical supply company, which made him a perfect candidate as a medic when he was drafted in the US Army. He was assigned to the 311th medical battalion as part of the 86th Infantry, the Blackhawks. The Medical Battalion always accompanied a Division in the field, with its primary mission to care for the Allied casualties. The medics found themselves caring for German prisoners as well as our own soldiers. Bill’s battery of medics also vaccinated children in a local village for measles which had reached epidemic proportions.
At the conclusion of the War in Europe, Bill’s unit was redeployed to Luzon. Subsequently, Bill joined the reserves and married Margaret Clark. After completing his college years, he returned to sell medical supplies in the south, making Louisiana their home in 1945, where they raised their 5 children. Bill passed away in Mandeville on March 31, 2019.
US AIR FORCE, 11th Combat Cargo Squadron, 3rd Combat Cargo Group, ASIATIC/PACIFIC THEATER. LEO BURTIS HOOVER was born in Independence, Louisiana on August 23, 1923. He was drafted in his sophomore year, January 1943. He began with the Army. After basic training, he went to Iowa, where he trained in engineering, and how to camouflage tanks and artillery with backdrops…However, he transferred to the Air Force, where he learned to shoot a gun from the back seat of a 2 seater plane, as well as training to be a radio operator. He joined a crew of C-47, the ‘workhorse of the Air Force’, where he would later deliver to the troops' fuel, ammunition, food…all over the world, The Japanese were getting a stronghold in Burma and China, so he and the crew took cargo and medical supplies to the allied troops there, and traveled over the Himalayas.
Private First Class Sebastian John Guzzardo was drafted in the US Army and served as a military police officer from 1943 until 1945. Born in Louisiana, Guzzardo participated in operations in Naples, Rome-Arno, Southern France, Rhineland, and Central Europe with Company B, 759th Military Police Battalion, 5th Army; 295th Engineer Combat Battalion, 7th Army; SS Argentina.
A Louisiana native, Lee Bubrig was born in Boothville in 1926. His grandparents had migrated from Croatia and Yugoslavia, and with hard work became successful. Growing up near the river, hunting and fishing was a major part of Lee’s life, and his natural love of the terrain prepared him for the Army’s training in communications, where he immediately went into the wire squad as a private. Battery B, the 749th field artillery battalion. He served in Okinawa where he was promoted to Corporal. After the War had ended, Lee helped in the criminal investigation squad of Japanese prisoners in South Korea. When he returned home, Lee started a successful business, using his skills with electricity and communications. Today, Lee is married to Nina Bubrig, and they reside in Covington. Lee has published his biography, and is donating a copy to the St. Tammany Library.
(Posted 6/9/2020) Listen to this episode for the latest information on the Phase 2 re-opening of the St. Tammany Parish Library. Further information can be found on our website at sttammanylibrary.org
Born in 1926, Emmet Charles Guderian, Jr. was raised in the heart of New Orleans, carrying a legacy of early Louisiana history with his ancestors arriving from Alsace-Lorraine in 1751. Emmet was one of nine children and attended the local Catholic schools through his high school years.
Upon learning that Pearl Harbor had been attacked, Emmet, at seventeen years of age, signed up with the Navy. Through Basic Training, he was assigned to be a Radar Operator, with the Controlled Information Center, on the USS Independence. They were involved in several battles in the Asian Theater, including the Battle of Leyte and in Okinawa, where many American lives were lost by the Japanese Kamikaze pilots. Emmet left the service having achieved the title of Petty Officer, Third Class, Radar Man
After the War, Emmet married Gwendolyn Marie Bourg, returned to Louisiana and had successful business experience in oil and gas. Emmet has lived on the Northshore for many years with his wife, now deceased.
The library is now open for curbside service at six branches. Listen to this episode for complete details. (Runtime 6:01)
Library News: As of 5/4/2020, Library closure information, Online Services, Summer Reading information and more. (Runtime 15:01)
Due to the COVID-19 national emergency, all St. Tammany Parish Library branches will remain closed to slow the spread of the virus. We will reopen when we can serve our patrons safely.
Library fines will not be charged for the next 30 days. During the time that the library is closed, we ask that patrons do not return any library items that are checked out.
Our staff will be available between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday to help you.
On this episode, we pay tribute to the late Frank Levy who brought joy and laughter to the children of St. Tammany Parish though his frequent "Stories in Motion" programs.
Dr. Jerry Ballanco, A Louisiana Master Gardener, poses the questions: "What is the scientific evidence? Should we worry? Do we need to do anything?" during this presentation recorded recently at the Folsom Branch Libray. (Runtime 1:03:14)
Calling fans of all fandoms and interests. Find out all the details of this annual library event for all ages. Also, hear about upcoming programs all over the parish including a 4 part series called "America in World War II". (Runtime 18:09)
Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing with this countdown of "10 Things You May Not Know About the Apollo Program" including actual audio of when lightning struck a rocket during liftoff! (Runtime 24:06)
Find out everything you need to know to participate in this 2019's Summer Reading Challenge "A Universe of Stories". Kids, Teens and Adults can all join in with events, prizes, special guests and more. Adult Services Cooordinator Jillian Boudreaux answers your summer reading questions. (Runtime 19:39)
This episode features highlights from the Veterans History Project, an oral history collection featuring interviews with veterans that call St. Tammany Parish home.
Yeoman Second Class Sherman Elfert was born in New Orleans. He enlisted in the Navy for World War II and remained in service for the Korean War. He served aboard the USS Holton in both the European and North African theatres and was present for the Surrender of Japan. He was awarded several medals that were lost in Katrina but some have since been replaced thanks to his VFW hall. He lives in Lacombe.
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Staff Sgt. Francis Drake was born in Chestertown, NY. He enlisted with the US Marines and then the US Navy. He switched because he wanted to travel more. He was stationed in Florida, Virginia, Maryland, Bermuda, and Italy. He worked as an aircraft mechanic and test cell supervisor, which later helped him land jobs with Ford Aerospace and Martin Marietta Space Systems once he retired from military life. He was a member of the US Navy Rifle Team, and received commendations for the Cuban Missile Crisis and Good Conduct. He currently lives in Lacombe.
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Sgt. Theodore Penton was born in Picayune, Mississippi but grew up in Pearl River. He enlisted in the Army and served three tours in Vietnam. He took part in Tet 68 and Tet 69 and was awarded the combat infantry badge, the Bronze Star with Valor, and the Purple Heart for his service with the 101st Airborne and the 82nd Airborne Divisions. He was a machine gunner and a sniper team leader during his time in Vietnam. He still resides in Pearl River.
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Staff Sgt. Joseph Foto was also born in New Orleans. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps for World War II and was an aerial gunner on B-24s as a member of the 15th Air Force, 459th Bomb Group, 479th Squadron, stationed in Fogia, Italy. On his 13th mission, his plane went down and he was stranded in Italy for 50 days. He received a bronze star and an air medal with 2 oak leaf clusters for his service. He lives in Mandeville.
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Sgt. Leroy James was born in Washington Parish. He was drafted into the Army for World War II and became a Tech 4th Grade with the 350th Anti-Aircraft Battalion. He worked as a radio operator using Morse code to send and receive messages. He served in New Guinea and the Philippines and received campaign medals for service in the Asiatic Pacific and good conduct, as well as World War II Victory and Philippine Liberation. He currently lives in Covington.
Sgt. John Corrigan was born in Baltimore, MD. He enlisted into the Marine Corps when he was 18 years old and served with the 1st Mar Air Wing at the K1 & K18 Air Bases on the east coast of South Korea. He participated in the Battle of Chosin Reservoir, aka the Frozen Chosin and worked as a courier for the communications hut. He received 3 Bronze stars and several Presidential citations for his service. He is a resident of Covington.
Sgt. James “Gus” Davis was born in Hinds County, Mississippi, but moved to Covington at a young age. He enlisted in the US Marine Corps and served with the 1st Division, 1st Battalion, in Vietnam. He received three Purple Hearts, a National Defense medal, a Vietnam Service Medal with Star, and several other medals for his work as an ONTOS tank operator. He currently lives in Covington.
Sgt. Cultus Pearson was born in Caesar, MS. He was drafted into the Army for World War II and served with the 41st Division, 162nd Battalion Infantry in New Guinea, Biak Island, and the Philippines. He carried the Browning Automatic Rifle in the Mindanao Campaign in the Philippines and became an expert rifleman. He was awarded the Bronze Star as well as the Army Good Conduct and Philippine Presidential Unit Citation for his service. He is a resident of Lacombe.
Sergeant First Class Ernest Chauvin was born in Houma. He was drafted into the Army Infantry and served in both World War II and Korea with the 69th Infantry Division, and later in the 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division in Korea. While in World War II, he served in the Rhineland and Middle Europe and received 2 combat infantry badges and 2 bronze stars for his service. At the end of World War II, he became the company supply sergeant. He lives in Mandeville.
Machinist 2nd Class Leon Faure was born in Hopeville, LA. He enlisted in the US Navy and served in Vietnam on the USS Magoffin and the Point Defiance. He participated in the Que Nam Landing and also served in Japan, Thailand, and the Philippines. He worked in the evaporator room, making distilled and drinking water for the ship. He received two good conduct medals, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Frank Knox Award. He is a resident of Mandeville.
Lt. Leon Toups, Jr. was born in New Orleans and was commissioned into the Army for the Vietnam War. His career started with Advanced ROTC training in Baton Rouge, and 6 weeks of basic training at Fort Sill, OK, between his junior and senior years at LSU. He worked in Intelligence and was with the 18th ARVN Division and served in Vietnam, teaching at the Army Intel School and taught English to Vietnamese soldiers. He received a Vietnam Service Medal, a US Air Medal, and a Meritorious Service Award. He is currently a resident of Mandeville.
Lt. Col. Champ Vinet was born in New Orleans. He was commissioned into the Army Air Force for World War II. He was a B-24 bomber pilot for the 779th Squadron, 664th Group, 55th Wing of the 15th Air Force. He was based in Pantanela, Italy, and flew campaigns over the Balkans, Austria, and Southern Germany. He also served with the Air Force Reserve and received an air medal with 4 oak leaf clusters for his service. He is currently a resident of Mandeville.
Electronics Technician Terry Charrier was born in Lafitte, LA. He enlisted in the US Navy and served on the USS Kearsarge, with a homeport in Long Beach, CA. His ship visited Hong Kong, Japan, the Philippines and Malaysia. He worked with old fashioned electronics and kept the radios running throughout his service. He lives in Covington.
Airman First Class Roy Rogge was born in Baton Rouge. He enlisted in the US Air Force and served in the United Nations Operations in the Congo with the 1607 Flightline Maintenance Squadron, 1607 Air Transport Wing out of Dover, DE. He maintained the aircraft that transported UN troops in and out of the Congo and was a member of the Quick Reaction Force which resulted in several deployments worldwide, including Greenland and Niger. He received medals for National Defense Service, Good Conduct, Armed Expeditionary and the Air Force Longevity Ribbon. He currently lives in Abita Springs.
Major Joseph Cassanova, born in New Orleans, served in the Louisiana Air National Guard from 1959 to 1990. His 31-year career with the 159th Tactical Fighter Group included service in Alaska, the Arctic, Europe, Washington, DC and many other areas. He was involved in operations for the Cuban Missile Crisis and Desert Storm and has received various medals for his service. He is currently a resident of Mandeville.
Edward Haslam, author of "Dr. Mary's Monkey", gives a presentation about his book and the related book "Me & Lee: How I Came to Know, Love, and Lose Lee Harvey Oswald by Judyth Vary Baker. (Runtime 2:13:57)
Hear an exclusive live performance by the Grammy nominated Cajun band The Lost Bayou Ramblers. Also included is a lecture by band member Louis Michot on CRIA (Cultural Research Institute of Acadiana Seed Bank). (Runtime: 27:46)
Covington author Christian Garcia discusses his book that contains love letters between his grandparents from over a hundred years ago. (Runtime 47:18)
Learn all about "Purchased Lives: The American Slave Trade" exhibit from our Adult Programming Coordinator, Jillian Garner Boudreaux. You'll hear about what to expect and how you can view the exhibition and attend related programs. Also on this episode, historian Eva Semien Baham, PhD presents a lecture on African Americans in our parish. The lecture covers from the early origins to the present and how critical and important events shaped our community. (Runtime 1:28:33)
New York Times Best Selling Author/Illustrator George O'Connor is interviewed by members of the Slidell Branch's Middle School Book Club.
Author John Lee reads an excerpt from his book Our Sleepless Nights: Surviving Katrina and Burying Miss Vera. The story of neighbors helping neighbors in their time of need in the aftermath of 2005's devastating Hurricane Katrina.
Dr. Sam Hyde, Director at the Center for Southeast La. Studies, presents a lecture on the Reconstruction of Louisiana and the Florida Parishes after the Civil War in this encore presentation from 2007. (Runtime 35:58)
This episode features the latest presentation by History Professor and Historian Dr. Eva Semien Baham. This program is titled "Marching to Zion: Faith in Forging Legacies and Lessons" and it focuses on African American religious history. It draws from local church history and places them in the context of both regional and national experiences of African Americans and the work of religious groups which left strong and abiding legacies and lessons. (Runtime 56:14)