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030/ IN THE BAG The Season’s Best Bag Trends 56 / THE CONDUCTOR Maestro Clay Couturiaux is This Month’s Bayou Artist 66 / HIGH, LOW AND JUST RIGHT The Guest House of Jolly and Tim Brandon 84 / BAYOU ICON Caleb Seney: A Life of Service 106 / THE UPPERCUT Local Boxer Sparky McDuffie 130/ LET IT SPARKLE Beautiful Baubles from Area Fine Jewelers
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138 / IMPROVING UPON PERFECTION The Home of Kelli and Jim Worthy 158 / THIS IS HER STORY Monroe Native Ashley Elston Pens New Book 172 / FOR HIS TEMPLE FAMILY FOODS Delicious, Organic, Gluten Free Foods in the Heart of Downtown West Monroe 196 / BOTANICAL BEAUTY Floral Fall Frocks 204 / COMFORT CLASSICS Mouth-Watering Southern Favorites from Area Restaurants
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BayouLife
HERE ARE A LOT OF
things I’m thankful for this season. I’m thankful that my children are healthy and that I have a husband and family that loves me. I’m thankful that I get to work alongside amazing people and produce a publication that I’m proud of. I’m thankful for all the people that helped us as we recovered from the flood and moved back into our offices. I’m thankful for the country and the community that we live in. And most importantly, I’m thankful for the spiritual direction that my life has taken me over the last ten years. If you step through the doors of BayouLife, you may notice the sound of a baby crying, or two…or soon to be, three. On October 6th, our second BayouLife baby was born this year, Cully Hedge Hubenthal. We are so happy for Ashley and Andrew and their new little bundle of joy. He, baby Sydney (who is a couple of months older) will soon have another BayouLife play partner when Amanda and Wes Singley have their precious addition this Spring. Something may be in the water on Royal Avenue, after all. This month, I enlisted the help of the über talented, Taylor Bennett, to help style our Comfort Classics food shoot. Local eateries like Thurman’s Food Factory, Trio’s, Vieux Carré Market, Trapp’s, Crumbs’ Catering, Newk’s Eatery and Genusa’s delivered mouth-watering, family-style comfort food. See these Southern staples on page 204. Our fashion shoot sometimes come to us a little too sporadically. After seeing Maré work on a magazine for The Garden
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Study League, I got inspired by some of the botanical art. Maré convinced me that we could make live floral headpieces for our photo shoot this month. We gathered up the supplies, flowers and glue guns and took a chance. With Therese and Sammy Nagem’s gorgeous gardens as the backdrop, our talented photographer, Martin Meyers behind the camera, the beautiful Ellie Jackson modeling and Meka Bennett’s flawless makeup – this has gone down in the books as one of my favorite fashion shoots. See it on page 196. We are so excited about our Holiday Open House on December 8, 2016. Join us as we Mix & Mingle from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. with a Fashion Show starting at 6:30. Tickets are required and must be obtained in advance at the BayouLife office with the donation of an unwrapped toy. Toys will be donated to the Louisiana Methodist Children’s Home. Wish lists are available on bayoulifemag.com, as well as our Facebook page. We hope you enjoy reading this month’s issue of BayouLife Magazine and hope that you and your family have a great Thanksgiving!
Cassie
PUBLISHER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com EDITOR Maré Brennan mare@bayoulifemag.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Moffett melanie@bayoulifemag.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Taylor Collins taylor@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Toni Navarro toni@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Ashley Hubenthal ashley@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Amanda Singley amanda@bayoulifemag.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tara Ambrose Nills Borquist Maré Brennan Dan Chason Kenny Covington Lou Davenport Dr. David Finley Cindy Gist Foust April Honaker Paul Lipe
Erin Love Meredith McKinnie Dr. Timothy Mickel Kay Rector Claire Shepard Delia Simpson P. Allen Smith Beatrice A. Tatem Analeise Thomas Judy Wagoner
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Arender Scarlett Garcia Martin G. Meyers ON THE COVER Vieux Carré Market’s Oyster Dressing. Photography by Martin G Meyers. BayouLife Magazine is published and distributed by Redbird Publishing, LLC. Circulation: 13,000 copies monthly. Postal subscriptions ($20) can be ordered online at www.bayoulifemag. com. BayouLife Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, manuscripts or other materials. Reproduction of contents without express written permission is prohibited.
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Abita Brewing Company A Louisiana Original
BY DELIA SIMPSON, CRAFT, SPECIALTY, AND IMPORT MANAGER, CHOICE BRANDS, INC.
THE BREWERY Abita Brewing Company truly is a shining jewel in the crown of Louisiana. It was originally founded in 1986, just as the American craft brewing movement was beginning. In its first year, the brewery produced 1,500 barrels of beer. By 1994, they outgrew the original site (now a 100-seat brew pub) and moved up the road to a larger facility to keep up with demand. Today, over 151,000 barrels of beer and 9,100 barrels of root beer are brewed in this state-of-the-art brewing facility. Lagers and ales are brewed in small batches, hand-crafted by a team of dedicated workers with only the highest ideals of quality. This pride, along with the brewing process, is what creates Abita’s unique Louisiana brews. To this day, Abita is privately owned and operated by local shareholders, many of whom have been there since day one. Green brewing means that the Abita Brewing Company is committed to preserving the environment through conservation of resources, energy efficiency and corporate social responsibility. Abita works to make great beer every day but they also work to make Abita Springs, Louisiana and the world around them a better place to live by being a good neighbor. The brewery is located in the beautiful, piney woods north of New Orleans. The clean, pure water drawn from natural artesian wells is what makes the beer so unique. Protecting and improving the environment is a responsibility that is taken very seriously. Conserving energy and water, reusing by-products and waste, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, driving greener 8 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
vehicles and using recycled materials are some of the ways Abita is working to keep our part of the world green and clean. THE WATER It all starts with the water. It’s the reason the Abita Brewing Company is located in beautiful Abita Springs, Louisiana. While most other breweries must filter and chemically treat their water for the brewing process, Abita does neither. Abita takes theirs straight from the source. The water is drawn from a deep artesian well in the Southern Hills aquifer system. Over 3,000 feet deep in some areas, it contains fresh water kept pristine in underground structures that are more than five million years old. Abita Springs water has been tested and shown to be free of man-made pollutants, including Tritium, a man-made radioactive isotope that marks all surface waters. With this water as a base, Abita is able to highlight some of the best ingredients Louisiana has to offer. THE HARVEST SERIES Without a doubt, one of the most popular lines that Abita produces is its Harvest Series. Abita Harvest Series incorporates the finest Louisiana-grown ingredients. No artificial flavors, extracts or oils are used, only real fresh ingredients that are Louisiana-grown and Louisiana true. Several new brews have been added to the lineup this year, and to say they have been well received would be an understatement. Blueberry Wheat made its debut this summer, coming after the ever revered Strawberry Lager. Another newbie, Abita Peach Lager, hit shelves in October.
Abundant amounts of ripe, juicy Ruston peaches have made this an instant local favorite. Stay tuned later this month for the arrival of Sweet Orange! THE BOOT This October, as a way of celebrating its thirty year love affair with Louisiana, Abita introduced The Boot, brewed for the way we love to live. The Boot is a crisp, refreshing brew made proudly and sold only within our home state. Brewed with white wheat, oats and barley, hopped with Hallertau Blanc and fermented with German Kolsch yeast, it serves as a thank you to the people of Louisiana, who have been with Abita from the start. To find The Boot near you, visit Abita.com/find_abita. Be sure to like Choice Brands on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram to keep up with local happenings and new product releases. In addition, you’ll find links to beer related articles, fun recipes and much more! As a bonus, we will be posting a trivia question each month for a chance to win cool, beer related prizes. This month’s question is: What is added to Purple Haze after filtration which gives the brew its unique tint and flavor? Go to our Facebook page, post your answer in the comments section (the trivia post will be pinned to the top) and you’ll be entered to win (must be at least 21 years of age)! Find us at facebook.com/choicebrands, twitter. com/choicebrandsinc, and instagram.com/ choicebrands. Good luck!
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ENJOYING THE LITTLE THINGS Having an “Attitude for Gratitude” This Thanksgiving
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article by Cindy G. Foust
kay, I told a story. You know, like a little white lie kind of story. I promised last month I would be writing my column for November on something light and mildly entertaining (although somewhat boring if you ask me, compared to the last few months), and recommend to my readers the 25 best ways to make hot chocolate. And as usual, I plan to get so far off topic that we will wonder where I ever started. It doesn’t seem possible that we are looking into the eyes of the 2016 holidays, but readers, get those shopping lists ready, because here we are. Praise the Lord, we are finally enjoying a weather reprieve, and it actually feels like November. Of course, by Christmas Eve, it will likely be raining, or we will have our ceiling fans going. Nonetheless, like it or not, the holidays are here. I think I’ve shared with my readers before that my favorite holidays are the ones in the fall, especially after the weather turns cool, I love everything about this season. Don’t get me wrong. I do love hot chocolate and enjoy figuring out different ways to make it (see, I did manage to stay on the promised topic, albeit very briefly), but as I get older, I find myself getting more and more caught up in the season. Any of my other middle-aged readers find themselves doing a lot of reflecting these days? I’ve written in columns past about gratitude and taking some time during the holidays to honor this season with thanksgiving. I’ve also encouraged my readers to create grateful journals with your children. And last year, I even did my best to persuade our BayouLife families to create their very own grateful tree. This year, my column isn’t promoting Thanksgiving memorabilia as much as it is simply promoting gratefulness. How so? I want to ask my readers something, challenge them even. How often do you just take a few minutes and observe life as it is going on around you? (Get that furrowed look off your face. I’m not about to go Billy Graham on you!) I mean, really stop and literally watch life pass you by? In most
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every single column, I write for this magazine that I love so much, I inevitably will reference the busy, manic lives we live. It’s true… most of us stay in a break-neck, full court-press (and in case you are wondering, yes, I can shoot a 3-point shot) hubbub (I have been dying to use that word in my column) all the time. In my own life, I so very much want to sit and smell the coffee, or is it the roses? I want to bake cookies for a sick friend or visit the home for the aging and just read someone a book or hold their hand. It’s such a conflict for me, and I am sure many of you, in wanting to spend more time with my own family and friends, and instead, I find myself working from sunup to sundown to keep the dream alive. Sound familiar? Recently, however, in the most unlikely of places, I had a moment of clarity; a moment that stopped me in my tracks…and that’s the football stadium. My husband and our family have enjoyed the same reserved seats at the local high school, where my son is playing his senior season. For those of you who have also enjoyed your same seats for many years, oftentimes, you will find yourselves sitting beside the same folks year after year. And you probably get to know them. Or do you? I’m as guilty as the next person, I guess, sitting beside the same people year after year after year, and just giving a polite nod, as I let them pass by to get to their seats. This year, however, and perhaps it’s because my son is a senior and I’m experiencing a lot of anxiety and emotion over the fact that he’s “leaving the nest” in a few short months, but I’ve tried to sit in this same seat and simply soak in the experience. In doing so, I found myself drawn to one particular fan, who, for several years, has walked by me time after time, sat in his same seat with his very attentive and wonderful grandfather, but whom I have never engaged in a meaningful conversation with. This same little fan doesn’t miss a home game, and cheers on his team with the same vigor and energy CONTINUED ON PAGE 166
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CREATING A PRODUCTIVE WORKSPACE by Erin Sharplin Love erinlove@panachebyerin.com
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urprisingly, having an inadequate workspace can affect you personally, emotionally and financially. Rather, it should be a place where you enjoy spending your time, and it should be organized and productive. If your workspace doesn’t inspire and motivate you to create the best work in an efficient manner, stay tuned. My tips below should help!
Prevent piles of mail from accumulating. Flat surfaces tend to attract stacks of paper, so don’t let that happen by going vertical! In other words, use some stackable trays or hang baskets vertically on an empty wall to sort through mail. As soon as mail comes into your home, categorize it by the action that needs to be taken, such as bills that need to be paid, invitations that need responses, etc.
Begin by decluttering. In the end, you want your workspace to be clean and clutter free, so always begin by removing anything that doesn’t serve a specific, work-related purpose. Some items will be trash, while other items will simply need to be relocated. The clearer our desks; the clearer our brains.
Keep supplies at your fingertips. Make sure you can find a pencil, pen, eraser, paper clip or any other item in a moment’s notice. There is nothing more frustrating than having to dig through a bottomless and unorganized drawer. Instead, use clear, plastic containers to categorize each item, and keep your drawers neat and organized.
Create smart storage. Take note of all the ways you could possibly store and organize your things. Maybe you could add shelving to the walls surrounding your desk, for instance. I like to keep floors clear, but that doesn’t mean you couldn’t add a stylish filing cube of some sort. I also suggest sticking to one color scheme when purchasing organizing products, such as baskets, bins, filing racks, etc. Although bright colors can promote happiness and alertness, too many colors can distract. Finally, I always utilize labels in a productive workspace.
rangle the myriad of cords! W An office can accumulate an unbelievable array of cords and wires, so take the time to sort through them all and get rid of any cords that you no longer need. Then neatly wrap and label each cord according to use. There are several ways to organize cords, but my favorite (and the least expensive) is to cut a toilet paper tube in half, cover with washi tape and slip the cords inside. You can then use a marker to label each roll or you could use a label maker. Another easy way to wrangle your cords is to wrap them in reusable Velcro ties.
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Finally, you must make your area inviting and beautiful so you will want to spend time there. Below are a few of the ways I style a workspace: 1. Add pictures and art to the surrounding walls and/or desktop. When you are pondering something and staring off into space, it will help to have something positive surrounding you. 2. E mploy a corkboard to serve as an inspiration board! This might be one of the most important things you can add to your workspace. After all, if you can dream it, it can happen! 3. Greenery always livens up an area, and it will help clear the air of toxins. However, if you don’t have a green thumb, a faux plant will suffice. 4. M ake sure your chair is comfortable! Add pillows and a throw blanket for when you get a chill. 5. A dd an alternative light source, such as a lamp or desk light. Not only are they beneficial for completing necessary paperwork, they also add a bit of ambiance to the space. 6. D on’t forget to add your favorite candle to complete the space. Watching the flicker of a flame can be relaxing. Once you complete these tips for creating a productive workspace, I can guarantee that you will work better because of the neatness and functionality. I hope you’ve enjoyed these tips!
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The Best Buys in Wine For Your Thanksgiving Meal from Washingston Wine & Spirits
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HERE IS NOTHING BETTER THAN SHARING A GOOD bottle of wine and a great meal with the best of friends and family. Thanksgiving is the perfect holiday to enjoy that kind of experience, and one of the best wines to suit that home-cooked meal is Beaujolais! Beaujolais is a region in France, specifically southern Burgundy, known for producing what they call Beaujolais wine, which is made from the Gamay grape. Beaujolais nouveau is a sub-type of Beaujolais wine that is specified by its youth. This sub-type is harvested in late August or September, fermented for a few days, and then released to the public on the third Thursday of November, which is an impressive and quick turnaround. For the French, this wine is a celebration of the end of harvest and is a neat parallel to Thanksgiving, which celebrates America’s first harvest. Needless to say, Beaujolais is a wine for any celebration and is a perfect pairing for turkey and cranberry sauce. The wine is very bright and fruity with low tannins and is meant to be drunk young and slightly chilled. Beaujolais is an easy choice to bring to your Thanksgiving dinner, because it is both a crowd-pleaser and easy on the budget. You can find a good bottle of Beaujolais for around $10-$15. Now, if Beaujolais is not your style, check out the list below of ten different wines, all under $20, that you can grab off the shelf at Washington Wine and Spirits. • Slingshot Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 ($18.99)- This Napa Cabernet sitting under $20 is an excellent value. This is the “Sportsman’s Paradise” bottle complete with a bullseye and a bullet hole. This wine will go great with your meal. It is recommended to open the bottle before dinner to let it breathe, so you can get the most out of it. • Racines de la Terre Pinot Noir 2014 ($13.49)- From southern France, this estate-grown Pinot Noir is a great choice for Pinot lovers, as well as someone looking for an easy drinking red. The flavors are a great match with turkey. • Carmenet Chardonnay 2014 ($11.49)- This is a solid, crisp Chardonnay that will hold up to both a lighter meal, as well as more savory dishes. It is full-bodied with notes of citrus, tropical fruits and vanilla to smooth it out.
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• Morgan Unoaked Chardonnay 2014 ($18.49)- This wine is different from your traditional Chardonnay, because it is aged in stainless steel vats instead of oak barrels. This process imparts flavors like minerality and allows for more prominent fruit notes without the oak and butter. It is a perfect wine to enjoy pre-dinner. • Pighin Pinot Grigio 2013 ($19.99)- A great example of a Pinot Grigio, Pighin from Fruili, Italy is fresh and floral. It has a complexity that will keep you involved in your glass and is also a great sipping wine. • Cannonball Merlot 2013 ($13.99)- If you are looking for an entertaining label and a crowd-pleasing wine, the Cannonball Merlot is the perfect choice. The label features a sprightly kid in the cannonball pose, and the wine is very berry with vanilla and spice to round out the flavors. • Torres 5G Garnacha 2014 ($14.99)- Hailing from Spain, this Garnacha is an ode to the five generations who have kept this winery going. The palate is spicy and funky, like your favorite crazy aunt. • Saint-Cosme Red Wine 2014 ($19.99)- Founded in 1416, this French wine is a great icebreaker when you are meeting his/her family for the first time. The wine brings with confidence flavors of smoke, raspberry and black pepper. This red wine will go great with the main meal, and at $19.99, this Cotes du Rhone is a steal! • Kim Crawford Rosé 2015 ($16.49)- Now, if you want to bring a wine that invites laughter and smiles, there is no better way than with Rosé. This New Zealand charmer has notes of berry and watermelon and is characteristically both bright and juicy. • Simonet Blanc de Blanc ($12.49)- If you want to bring some life and bubbles to celebrate, the Simonet Blanc de Blanc is an affordable catch. It has a light and easy taste with hints of melon that is a perfect French sparkling wine for any celebration. All of these wines are great buys at great prices, and if you would like to explore more, the wine shop has plenty to choose from with budget-friendly prices. We carry over 350 different labels and 20% of those are under $20! We would love to help you find a great wine to impress your friends and family. From all of us here at the shop, we wish you a happy turkey day and great memories!
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BOUTIQUE SPOTLIGHT I often write about fashion trends and celebrity street style, but this month I wanted to highlight the local boutiques that keep us all on trend. There are so many wonderful shops around us, and we all should support them and SHOP LOCAL. Specifically, I’m detailing where you can find the brands I represent in the Southwest and Southeast right here in Northeast Louisiana. Visit the below boutiques this month for amazing Fall deals, and don’t forget to tell them I sent you! And please mark your calendars on November 19 for the Caudalie event at Hopkins Dermatology. I’ll be there as spokesmodel for the Fotona Laser treatment I received last month. It’s beyond fabulous and has done wonders for my skin!
THE FASHION OF RUSTON I loved attending Ruston Fashion Week last month, and The Fashion’s runway show was beyond amazing. The models were great, and the looks Kelly styled were outstanding. It was especially fun to go with my grandmother, Linda, and to run into dear friends, like Niven Morgan. While looking around the boutique, I was pleasantly surprised to find that most of my brands were sold out (they of course reorder regularly). You can find my favorite KUT from the Kloth jeans, the “Mia” toothpick skinny here, as well as our beloved Ciao Milano anoraks. Other Reeves & Company brands sold at The Fashion are L.A. based brand Billy T, Cullen cashmere sweaters, Israeli made Simon Sebbag jewelry, Sisters sweaters and wraps and much more!
THE TOGGERY
A. ALDEN’S MEMO
Atlanta and Dallas based fashion sales representative for Reeves & Company, Analeise Thomas, highlights local area boutiques and the Reeves & Company brands they carry.
The owners of HerringStone’s, Debbie and Cindy, have been long friends of our family, and we have so loved doing business with them through the years. They’re always on top of the current trends and have amazing brands at every price point. They also have a second location in Lafayette, which is great if you’re visiting the Cajun City and need to pick up a fun top or two. Two of our most popular brands across our 17 state territory, B Collection by Bobeau and Nally & Millie, can be found here. One brand that we’re super excited about, Sheila Fajl, is sold at Herringstone’s. The jewelry line is known for it’s light-weight large hoops that look amazing on everyone! Our best-selling Lyssé leggings are also found here - my favorites are the camel faux suede and the black moto leather!
HERRINGSTONE’S
Another longtime and dear friend of our family, Tom Baker, has really developed the women’s collection at The Toggery. We love The Toggery for their elegant and classic pieces and the impeccable customer service. You won’t find a nicer and more knowledgable sales team anywhere. We’re so excited that they will be carrying brands that are new to our showroom for Fall 2016 - Acrobat sweaters and Metric furs. Acrobat’s styling is contemporary and sophisticated and Metric’s fur vests are flattering and not boxy. You can also find our Ciao Milano anoraks here- my favorite color is Avocado and I never leave my house without it!
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THE NUDE NOMAD The Nude Nomad is a new boutique to our area, located on Antique Alley in West Monroe. Their aesthetic is boho meets edgy meets sexy and trendy. They’ll be carrying our brands starting Spring 2017. Australian brand, Ruby Yaya, has amazing embroidered beachy pieces- offthe-shoulder tops, bikini coverups and bohemian caftans. My favorite denim button-up shirt, hands down, is by Side Stitch. They’re known for their classic shirts, plaids and shirt dresses. If you’re looking for something sexy yet classy, look no further than Nouvelle. The silk camisole and jogger pant make the perfect pulled-together look for a cocktail party or girls’ night out.
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Your Trusted Hearing Center Audibel Hearing Center Is Committed To Patients
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N NORTH LOUISIANA, FALL MEANS ONE THING hunting. For months leading up to Opening Day, hunters prepare by working on hunting leases, setting up cameras, putting out corn and stocking up on camouflage, but often they forget an important essential – hearing protection. When shooting without the proper hearing protection, any type of firearm can result in severe damage to your hearing. A recent study found that men ages 48 to 92 that hunted regularly were more likely to experience high-frequency hearing loss. Surprisingly, 83% of the hunters reported that they never wore hearing protection while shooting in the last year. Let’s take a look at even more surprising facts about hunting and hearing loss – JUST ONE SHOT CAN CAUSE DAMAGE According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, people who don’t wear hearing protection can suffer significant hearing loss with even one shot, if the conditions are right. HUNTERS ARE AT HIGH RISK Many hunters blow off hearing protection, because they say it gets in the way or that they can’t hear game coming with plugs or muffs. However, the truth is that there are electronic hearing protection devices on the market that can allow you to hear the soft sounds, but also protect your ears when a loud sound occurs. ONLY HALF OF TARGET SHOOTERS WEAR HEARING PROTECTION Target shooting is one of the most important times to protect your hearing, since there is repeat or rapid fire. We recommend that you may even want to double up on your protection when practicing, by wearing earplugs under ear muffs. While the sounds of shooting can always be damaging, if you are practicing at an indoor range, the noise will be amplified. HEARING LOSS FROM SHOOTING CAN BE PERMANENT Hunters can develop something known as high-frequency hearing loss, making certain sounds unclear and the speech of others sound like mumbling. You can also develop tinnitus, or ringing in the
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ears. Both of these issues can be permanent. If you have a history of recreational/hunting noise exposure, ringing in your ears (tinnitus) and/or hearing loss, please schedule an appointment with us. Let’s monitor your hearing stability and discuss hearing protection options that will protect your ears, but will benefit you by enhancing your ability to carry on conversations, detect game and hearing your surroundings, all while protecting your ears! Local hunter and Audibel customer, David Rawls, had this to say, “When I went to Audibel, I hadn’t heard a deer walking through the woods in over 30 years. I’d see them walk through a stream and know I should hear the sound of the water underneath their hooves and I’d hear nothing. I started to think they’d developed some kind of stealth-mode over the years. With the encouragement of my family, I went to Audibel. What I came away from that appointment with was a whole new lease on life. I could hear deer walking through the woods again, birds chirping, the sound of leaves rustling in the forest and squirrels barking in the trees. I could hear what my wife and grandkids were saying. I could turn my TV down from 50 decimals to 20 decimals and hear voices. The purchase of my hearing aid – handsdown – was the best money I’ve ever spent.” If you’ve been missing out on hunting, maybe it’s not your aim, it could be your ears. At Audibel The Hearing Center, Cherry Phillips “The Hearing Lady” has been serving this area for over 28 years. “When I got my hearing aids, I went back every week for about a month for them to make adjustments. They worked with me until everything was perfect and until I was completely satisfied. Their staff is top-notch, they are some of the friendliest people I’ve met, and they can even take a joke. I look forward to my return visits,” says Rawls. ABOUT US Audibel The Hearing Center offers free hearing screening, free second opinions, extended warranties and repairs on all makes and brands of hearing aids. You can find out more by visiting their website www.AudibelMonroe.com, and you can see more and like us on Facebook.com/AudibelMonroe.
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What’s Your Vision of Beauty? Haik Humble Eye Center Wants You to Imagine the Possibilities
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AIK HUMBLE EYE CENTER offers advanced cosmetic and medical aesthetic services to our practice offerings. Our services are provided in a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere utilizing the latest technology and highly qualified professionals to deliver great results. Our goal is to help you achieve healthier and younger-looking skin. We’ve focused our advanced technology on treatments for improving skin’s health and appearance, as well as cosmetic procedures for the eyes and surrounding area. Whatever your vision of beauty, Haik Humble Eye Center makes it remarkably affordable. PHOTOFACIALS Most people seeking skin rejuvenation to restore a smoother, more youthful appearance or to correct certain skin issues will be ideal candidates for photofacials. Photofacial treatment uses intense pulsed light (IPL) to remove skin imperfections and stimulate collagen and elastic fiber production, thus creating healthier and smoother skin. The gentle, non-ablative treatments use broad spectrum light to treat the face, chest, neck and hands—virtually anywhere that sun damage shows. The process is ideal for anyone with active lifestyles because the procedure requires no downtime and has a low risk of side effects. Photofacials can improve the signs of sun damage, rosacea and brown spots on the face, hands and body. It has also been used to reduce the appearance of mild acne scars, dark circles around the eyes and fine lines around the eyes and mouth. At Haik Humble Eye Center, we utilize the Lumenis M22 laser
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for IPL Photofacial treatments, which is the gold standard platform for cosmetic skin treatments. PATIENT SATISFACTION Photofacials have a very high measure of patient satisfaction. Patients are very pleased with treatment results, because the process treats the full face, neck, chest or hands, rather than addressing a single isolated area or imperfection. With a series of treatments, IPL technology can help restore a more youthful appearance with no downtime or a prolonged recovery necessary after other types of treatments Several appealing qualities of IPL Photofacials which result in very high levels of patient satisfaction: • IPL treatments are quick, gentle and noninvasive. There is no interruption of routine activities. • By helping to remove the age spots (suninduced freckles) and broken capillaries, the result is overall more even, luminous, younger looking skin. • Patients can see dramatic results within a very short time. WHAT TO EXPECT Each pulse of the laser lasts less than one second and may produce a slight tingling feeling. In particularly sensitive areas, such as the upper lip, it may feel like a quick pinch. After the treatment, a moisturizer is applied with sunscreen. If there is any mild swelling, a cold pack may be applied for five or ten minutes. Commonly, patients can reapply foundation or concealer immediately after treatment.
Each treatment session takes about 20 to 45 minutes to perform, depending on the size and location of the targeted area. Usually four to six treatment sessions are recommended to produce optimal results. After the photofacial treatment, patients can return to work and other regular activities the same day. The skin may appear slightly flushed and capillaries may appear more visible, but these changes are often unnoticeable to others. It is important to protect the skin from sun exposure for the first few months after treatment to promote proper healing and long-term results. EXCELLENT RESULTS Most people will experience a disappearance or significant reduction in skin irregularities after a series of treatment sessions spaced several weeks apart, although results depend on the type and severity of the condition being treated. Sun spots and other forms of sun damage tend to darken after treatment and then shed from the skin after one to two weeks. People with rosacea often notice a decrease in redness and a return to a more normal skin tone within a week after treatment. Those with spider veins may experience a full or partial fading of affected vessels after 10 to 14 days. Achieving smoother, more beautiful skin is now easier and more comfortable than ever before. The professionals at Haik Humble Eye Center will develop a customized treatment plan in order to achieve the desired results for each patient’s individual condition. Call us today at (318) 325-2610 to schedule a FREE consultation.=.
WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 21
Paying it Forward The Psychology of Random Kindness BY BEATRICE TATEM, PH.D., LPC-S, NCC, ACS
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T A DRIVE-THRU ONE MORNING, I placed an order for two sausage burritos and a large HI-C and was directed to drive to the first window. When I drove to the first window, I was immediately told by the cashier to drive to the next window, at which time I was informed, “You don’t owe anything. The car in front of you has paid for your bill.“ As they drove off I attempted to identify the driver, the car or the car tag. It was at this point I realized I was the beneficiary of random kindness; kindness bestowed upon me not because of any particular circumstance or anything about me; an unconditional act of caring. My spirit was deeply impacted, it set the tone for my having an unbelievably great day. “Paying it Forward” is an expression referring to the random act of kindness, whereby the beneficiary of a good deed repays it to others instead of to the original benefactor. At a time when so many actions in society are being questioned, this age old concept, now a movement, has experienced a rebirth, a resurgence, a momentum. This random act of kindness prompted my “therapist mind” to wonder how doing good deeds impacts the lives of the benefactor as well as the recipient. What happens for us mentally and emotionally when we randomly help others? Social Psychological Research reveals if someone does something nice for you, you are more likely to do something nice for someone else. Researchers found doing nice things for people led to people having an increase in positive moods and relationship satisfaction. 22 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
Studies indicate people who engage in kind acts become happier over time. “When you are kind to others, you feel good as a person. Happy people make other people happy, and when you make someone happy, ultimately you are happier. It has been said there is no happiness like the happiness that comes from doing something nice for someone else without expecting anything in return. Random acts of kindness come in all sizes, under different circumstances, in various ways, done by all types of people. They can happen on small and large scales between individuals, amongst group members or with large establishments. For some, paying it forward means a monetary gift, for others it is a kind deed executed with little or no money. Sometimes we pay it forward, out of the goodness of our hearts. I was reminded of this when the daughter of a client over hearing her mother’s plans to clean out the garage asked her mother if she could donate all of her toys stored in the garage to “Ms. Beatrice” so that other kids like herself waiting for their parents could play. In her innocence, she was paying it forward from the heart. As we enter the season of Thanksgiving, identify ways you can pay it forward. Support the movement, host a pay it forward event. Be an everyday philanthropist by giving of your self, emotion, time, energy and interest. Offer unsolicited, genuine and sincere compliments. Welcome a newcomer to your
apartment complex. Leave a sticky note of encouragement for a colleague. Provide an opening in traffic for someone to merge into the lane. Pump someone’s gas in need of assistance. Offer to escort a colleague who has worked late to their car. Provide a respite for someone in need of rest. If possible, donate blood. One pint of blood can save up to three people. Every time you buy something for yourself donate something. Chivalry is alive. Hold the door open for the person behind you. Share your umbrella with the person caught in the rain without an umbrella. Mow the lawn or do chores for an elderly or sick neighbor. Write a random note of love to a friend. Kind people are the best kind of people. Be kind just because. To all of those individuals who have made me and others the benefactor of your paying it forward through actions, thoughts and kind deeds… you know who you are, I thank you. Hopefully, you recognize how you have touched my life. You are my inspiration for writing this article and a reminder to always pay it forward. There is a saying if you have much, give your wealth; if you have little, give your heart. We can make this world a better place, one good deed at a time. For more information about counseling services and outreach programming contact Dr. Tatem at Wellness Initiatives, LLC. 1900 North 18 th Street, Suite 414, Monroe, La 71201, 318-410-1555 or at btatem.bt@gmail.com.
WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 23
BAYOUBUZZWORTHY TOP GOLFERS
Top prize at the 2016 LGA Senior Four-Ball Championship at Lake Charles Country Club went to Monroe natives Bob Cooper and Stan Humphries. Cooper and Humphries are members of Bayou DeSiard Country Club. This is Cooper’s fourth LGA Championship. He won the Senior Amateur in 2007 and 2010, and he captured the 2013 LGA Senior Four-Ball with partner Eddie Lyons of Shreveport. This is Humphries first LGA Championship, but he is no stranger to competition, and he thrived under the pressure this weekend. Humphries is a former NFL quarterback, having played for the Washington Redskins and San Diego Chargers from 1988-1997. His golf game has really developed in the last five years, and he has been a mainstay in the top 20 at the LGA MidAmateur and Senior Amateur Championships.
NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
The University of Louisiana Monroe Water Ski Team travelled to Imperial Lakes in El Centro, Calif. to compete in the 37th national championship of the National Collegiate Water Ski Association (NCWSA) on Oct. 13-15. The ULM ski team was ranked third going into the final day of the tournament, but Martin Kolman’s last jump propelled the team into first place. ULM waterski coach Joey McNamara said, “Never has it been more imperative for everyone to ski their best. In the past, skiers might only have to train and ski two of the three events, but this year everyone had to focus and ski well at all three. Congrats, Warhawks!
HEADS UP
Taylor Collins, BayouLife Graphic Designer, has recently launched a line of modern headwear, Taylor Sue Co. Designed and handmade in Ruston, headbands and head wraps are perfect for infants, children and women of all ages. Made from the softest knits, these headbands are effortless, stylish and comfortable. Keep up with her new brand on instagram @taylorsue_co.
FULL STEAM AHEAD
After many months of planning and construction, Railway Coffee opened its doors on Thursday, October 13. Nestled in the heart of historic Downtown Ruston, Railway Coffee is a third-wave specialty coffee shop that proudly serves locally roasted coffees. For freshly roasted coffee, espresso beverages, teas, breakfast items and more, be sure to check out this new Ruston hot spot!
FOOD FOR THE SOUL
Slated to open in November, Bayou Roux is a purveyor of fine Southern dining from Chef Logan Parker. Chef Parker will be serving quality interpretations of classic dishes and an extensive drink selection. Whether you want pimento cheese like your grandma made or avocado hummus - like your grandma NEVER made, they’ve got you covered. We can’t wait!
24 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
SAINTSATIONAL
While you’re cheering on the Saints this season, keep an eye out for our favorite Saintsation, West Monroe native Taylor Hines! This is her first year on the team, and we couldn’t be prouder! Taylor is the daughter of Tashia and Dakin Hines. She is a graduate of West Monroe High School and LSU and is a former member of Twin City Ballet Company.
WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 25
GOOD GARDEN BONES ADD HOLIDAY SPLENDOR article by P. Allen Smith
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s winter arrives, we may find ourselves longing for the greener grass of spring and summer. And though it may be awhile before those verdant days return, we can rely on evergreen stand-bys to save the day. They provide a deep green canvas that’s as beautiful in November as it is in May. Aside from dependable, vibrant color, evergreens are useful in other ways. Large trees can create a screen to provide privacy that won’t wane with the seasons. Additionally, these trees and shrubs can create a buffer or noise barrier between your garden or home and busy streets or loud neighbors. Whatever your reasons for adding evergreens to your living areas, here are a few of my favorite shrubs and trees to plant. Yaupon Holly This evergreen shrub is beloved for the red berries it produces in the fall and winter, which makes it a lovely addition to wreaths and garlands during the holiday season. Only female hollies will produce berries, so keep that in mind when you’re purchasing plants. The dwarf shrub variety, not grown for its berries, is very popular, and I have rows of them outside my offices in Little Rock. Yaupon holly can be used as a hedge, screen or even a topiary! They grow quickly and have small leaves, which makes these shrubs ideal for shaping. Boxwood My garden would not be complete without boxwoods. I use them to create living walls, punctuate entries, and as focal points. Their bright green foliage pops against the gray winter landscape. You’ll want to plant these workhorse shrubs in full sun to partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Even though they are shrubs, they can grow up to five feet tall and four feet wide, depending on variety. Trust me when I say, you will not be disappointed with the green foliage these timeless classic beauties bring to your lawn, and, on my Moss Mountain Farm in Arkansas, I plant the ‘Green Velvet’ variety. Keep in mind some boxwoods will “brown out” in the winter, so choose a variety that retains its green color. 26 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
Sweetbay Magnolia While you may think of the large, white blossoms these trees typically produce in the summer, their foliage is equally beautiful. Magnolias, like the Sweetbay — which grows well in Tennessee—will have leaves with shiny green tops in the winter. I use them frequently in my holiday décor, as do many Southerners who prefer to enjoy their beauty year-round. You may recall seeing magnolia trees that have spread as wide as they have grown tall in height; keep this in mind when planting and make certain you have the space to accommodate them. Kumquat Home garderners who favor practical selections for the yard will enjoy the kumquat tree for its evergreen foliage and citrus fruit production. Compared to other citrus trees, the kumquat is ideal for those residing in colder climes. In zones 9 and 10, the kumquat tree will survive the winter in the garden bed, whereas a lemon tree or other citrus varieties will need to winter indoors. They like full sun and tolerate most any soil pH, as long as it’s well drained. American Holly A native plant across the South, there are literally hundreds of different cultivars of American Holly. Most
3 Ways to Bring the Green Indoors The beautiful color of evergreens doesn’t have to be enjoyed in the garden only; you can bring it inside with easy-to-create displays. The holiday season is an especially popular time to employ clippings from your favorite evergreens. Try these ideas or use them as inspiration for your own evergreen décor scheme.
2. Mantel Décor Rather than heading to the store to purchase a garland for your mantel, use clippings from the evergreens in your landscape. Magnolia branches, which can be wired together, are a popular Southern take on this idea; however, cedar, fir and juniper clippers can create an equally beautiful statement.
1. Set a Natural Table No need to call the florist for your next dinner party. Shop your garden for greenery that can be clipped and bunched together in vases of any size. For a different take, snip longer branches and create a runner down the center of your table.
3. Dress Up a Package Looking ahead to the Christmas season, sprigs of cypress, small clippings of holly berries and greenery or a snippet of a boxwood can make a pretty presentation piece to add to your holiday packages.
of these can be planted in sun or shade environments. They are particularly prized, because they remain free of pests and diseases. If you are looking to grow holly for its berries, remember that only the females produce these berries; however, male plants are required for pollination. Alongside the bright red berries, the shiny, pointed green leaves make excellent decoration. Note that these berries are also poisonous for humans and dogs, and therefore should be handled with care and not ingested. Camellia sasanqua Beautiful evergreen foliage and blooms from late fall through early spring make camellias a staple in any home garden. They grow easily in zones 7 to 10 and are drought-tolerant. They’re also available in many sizes and shapes, so double-check the height on any plants you purchase, especially if you’re placing them near your home. However, camellias also work well in containers and define spaces in the backyard or near decks and patios. ‘Yuletide’ is a favorite of mine with its cheerful red petals and crownlike golden stamens.
WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 27
Fishing With Kenny
Questions and Answers Lead to More Questions article by Kenny Covington
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ishermen are a curious bunch. They love to ask questions. Quite frequently, I am asked about different fishing techniques or other fishing related topics. Usually one question will lead to even more questions which spills over into much debate and even more conversation. Fishermen love to talk! Over the years, I have heard about every question there is about bass fishing, and I am sure I have heard every answer as well. Because I hear them just as much today as I did 25 years ago, they have stood the test of time. Here are some of my favorites……
“What lure color would you throw?
Fisherman have always been in love with their lures. We are addicted to past successes, and there’s always room in your tackle box for one more of your favorite crankbait or a pack of your secret soft plastics. As anglers, we believe that as long as we have our favorite color, lure, worm or topwater tied on, the fish are going to bite! Oh, if only fishing were that simple. There are times we have poor outings on the water because we want the fish to bite the things we like to throw instead of throwing what the fish want to bite. It is very easy to fish past memories and try to pattern the bite by “what the fish should be doing.” In tournament competition or even on a weekend outing, that is a recipe for disaster. In clearer bodies of water, such as Caney or Claiborne, I need to use more natural looking colors. Clearer topwater lures seem to work well, as well as natural colors such as shades of watermelon in soft plastics, are good starting points. Always keep in mind that these fish tend to feed on sight so size, color and presentation can be critical to your success. 28 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
If I am fishing more stained waters such as what I would find in the Ouachita River or in the many small bayous in our area, I am more inclined to fish brighter or darker color schemes. It is an interesting contrast, because I have found that fluorescent chartreuse is a killer color in dark stained or muddy water but I have also found that black is equally as effective. You may notice I didn’t mention the color white. I have found that white works very well in all water situations but for whatever reason works even better as part of a tandem color combination such as black/ white, chartreuse/white and so forth.
“What is your favorite technique?”
My favorite technique is whatever the one I can use to catch a fish. That is the honest truth. While I do have methods I prefer, I try to stay as open minded as possible. I have been burned before, because I didn’t want to use a particular technique. Such stubbornness is another recipe for disaster! Seasoned fishermen tend to become set in their ways. They prefer to fish the way they have most of their lives, and at times they can be just as successful. However, fish today are more pressured due to the amount of anglers on the water now, and the fish have become used to seeing the older techniques. Believe it or not, fish have become smarter. The fish you once caught on a Carolina rig might now bite a shakey head or a drop shot rig even better. Or the fish you used to catch on a spinnerbait might eagerly strike a well-placed squarebilled crankbait. It’s all about making adjustments and tweaking the things you like to do so that you create a new presentation.
“How do I develop my own style of fishing?”
With all of the new gadgets and fishing technology that is available, I am seeing less and less of the younger generation becoming specialists when it comes to specific techniques or styles of fishing. If you want to flip and pitch down a bank, they can do it. Do you need to work a drop shot around docks; that’s not a problem. What about throwing an Alabama rig in 25 feet of water? Yes, they have mastered that, too. More experienced fishermen like to rely on a few tried and true techniques, whereas these kids are smart, talented and can do it all. Their style of fishing is that they have no style, they just catch them. Invariably all of the “What would you use” questions lead to conversations, ranging from time of year to water conditions all the way to areas of the lake that fish better than others. Fishing is a game of trial and error, as well as on the water adjustments. I believe because of this very reason, the thirst for information, from old down to the new, is never ending. I always try to learn something new each time I am on the water. My desire to become a better angler is ongoing and with the development of the Internet, I can learn doing my own research, while never leaving my home. During the late fall and winter, the weather can make going fishing more about wishful thinking than an actual activity, so that is one advantage of technology that I have openly embraced. And if leads me right back to having more questions. To all of our readers, we appreciate you! Please be careful in the woods and on the water, see you next month!
WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 29
In The BAG
If you’re looking for this season’s best tote trends, we’ve got you covered. From fringed clutches to quilted crossbody’s, our boutiques have the latest styles to help you bag it up! Photography by Martin G Meyers
CROSWELL’S BOUTIQUE 139 SERENDIPITY
BEEHIVE
THE FLEURTY GINGER BOUTIQUE FREE BIRDS BOUTIQUE
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HEMLINE K&K’S GIVING TREE 30 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
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Apple Dental Dr. Dennis Warner Joins the Team
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R. MATT SANDERSON AND DR. KEVIN HAYNES ARE proud to announce the addition of Dr. Dennis Warner to the team at Apple Dental. Apple Dental is located in the growing healthcare community along 165 North in Monroe, which includes Shell Chiropractic, Turpin Orthodontics, Monroe Animal Health Center and Moss Eyecare. Apple Dental is a family dental practice offering a full range of dental services. They have a team of four hygienists that provide dental cleaning and check-up services. The hours are Monday-Thursday 7 a.m.-7 p.m. and Friday 8-12. DR. DENNIS WARNER Dr. Dennis Warner is originally from Caldwell Parish. He grew up in Monroe, where he attended Ouachita Parish Junior High School and graduated from Ouachita Parish High School in 1962. He then attended Northeast Louisiana University (ULM) and Loyola Dental School in New Orleans. Dr. Warner served as a lieutenant in the United States Navy from 1969-1971. Dr. Warner has been in practice for 47 years. He is married to the former Jill Law of Florien, LA and has three children and five grandchildren. Dr. Warner is a member of North Monroe Baptist Church. He enjoys playing golf, hunting and fishing. DR. KEVIN HAYNES Dr. Kevin Haynes was born and raised in Monroe, LA. He attended Sallie Humble Elementary, Lee Junior High and Neville High School. After graduation from high school in 1982, Dr. Haynes attended Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge for four years. In 1986, he began dental school at Louisiana State University in New Orleans and graduated in 1990. Dr. Haynes married his wife, Ashley, of 26 years in 1990. They have five wonderful children together, Patrick (24), Rachael (22), Christopher (19), Michael (16) and Laura (14). In his spare time, Dr. Haynes loves to hunt, play golf, read and spend time watching his children play sports, cheer and dance. Dr. Haynes attends St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, where he is involved with the St. Paul’s Men’s Retreat Ministry. Dr. Haynes coached Monroe Youth Baseball for twelve years. 32 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
Dr. Haynes served on the Jesus the Good Shepherd School Board and is a past President of the Northeast Louisiana Dental Association. He has been a member of the American Dental Association for 26 years. DR. MATT SANDERSON Dr. Matt Sanderson is a lifelong resident of Ouachita Parish. He attended Swartz Elementary, Claiborne Elementary and West Monroe Junior High and High Schools, and graduated from Calhoun High School. After graduating from Northeast Louisiana University (ULM), he attended Louisiana State University School of Dentistry, graduating in 1988. Dr. Sanderson is married to Merion Spence Sanderson, and they have four children: Ladd (23), Ty (21), McKenna (19) and Sophee (17). Dr. Sanderson is often heard saying, “I love being a Dentist.” He has been in practice for 28 years. Dr. Sanderson has been an active member of the community. He has served as a Monroe Youth Baseball Board Member and Coach, Northeast Louisiana Soccer Association Coach, Boy Scout Chairman, Greater Ouachita Port Commission member and past president of the Northeast Louisiana Dental Association. He is a member of the Louisiana and American Dental Association. Dr. Sanderson also participates in several Downtown Monroe Development Organizations. Apple Dental provides a variety of dental services for families. We offer periodontal therapy and routine cleanings by our four highly qualified hygienists. Our full range of services includes cosmetic dentistry, crowns, tooth colored fillings, root canals, fixed bridges, implant restoration, teeth whitening, extractions and dentures. We are a family dental office, so we see patients of all ages. We Love to Make Your Smile! Apple Dental 3301 Sterlington Rd, Monroe, LA 71203 318-325-3254 www.appledentalmonroe.com
WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 33
MOMS MATTER Single Mother Reminds Others How Much “Moms Matter” article by Kay Rector | photos by Martin G. Meyers
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aurie Payne grew up in a traditional family. Her parents were married. Her father worked and provided for their family, while her mother stayed home and cared for Payne and her two brothers. She was a cheerleader and ran track at West Monroe High School, then attended the University of Louisiana at Monroe, where she earned a degree in Marketing and Business Administration. While her childhood and early adult life may have been idyllic, Payne says that in her mid-twenties she began to make some questionable choices and was traveling the “wrong path.” She became involved with a young man and eventually became pregnant. Her child’s father, whom she never married, had issues that prevented him from being the kind of husband and father that she had grown up with and always expected she would find. She instead found herself single, with the enormous responsibility of raising a child on her own. 34 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
“When I thought my world was falling down around me, God was actually lifting me up,” Payne says. Today, she is a single mom to a wonderful eight-year old boy, Kendall Beck Ford. “My little boy is my life,” says Payne. “In some ways, he also saved my life.” While she is lucky to have a supportive family, Payne is very much a single mom, providing for and taking care of a child all by herself.
In June of 2014, Payne and her son were on a beach trip with members of their local church. One of the nights during the trip was designated as a “couples’ night out,” with child care provided, so that couples could enjoy an adult outing. Because Payne was not part of a couple, she was not included in this event. Rather jokingly, she commented to one of the church leaders that “moms matter, too, you know.” Payne realized that there were a few other single mothers on the trip, so she organized a “single moms” outing that night. “We all went out to eat, and we talked about the fact that we needed and deserved a night out, and that we also needed to be recognized,” remembers Payne. After returning from the trip, Payne kept thinking about that experience and about how often single mothers like herself feel excluded. She thought about the fact that so many of her friends were either married couples with children or single women with no children. “There’s nowhere for us to fit in,” she laments.
The more she considered this, the more she thought about how that needed to change. A month later, Payne invited the moms from the church trip to a gathering at her house, and they had the first meeting of what would become “Moms Matter.” The women connected and made a commitment to keep meeting and supporting each other. They invited other women to join their group. They met at Payne’s house once a month and brought their children, who also got to know each other. The group eventually grew too large for Payne’s house, so they moved their gatherings to Family Church in West Monroe, where they continue to meet once a month. At their Moms Matter meetings, food is served, and there are activities for the kids to do while the mothers have an opportunity to share concerns and encourage and motivate each other. The group is made up of mothers who are divorced, have never been married or are widowed, with ages ranging from 20s to 40s. “I love the friendships that are formed through Moms Matter. We do things together, we go places together and we raise our children together,” says Payne. “We have a bond that others who aren’t doing this alone can’t really understand.” Payne points out that although the group meets at her church, Moms Matter is not formally affiliated with Family Church or any specific church or religious organization. It is a Christian faith-based group with a Biblical foundation. The group has adopted a scripture that, Payne says, speaks to who they are and what they are about. “But You, O Lord, are a shield for me, my glory and the One who lifts up my head.” Psalm 3:3 (NKJV). Payne says this scripture serves as a reminder that they are daughters of the King and that He is with them as they do the important work of raising His children. Doing it alone can be frustrating and discouraging at times, and her goal is for women to leave
Moms Matter each month feeling strong and motivated. “We have to keep our heads up, and keep going,” Payne says. Mr. P’s Tees designed a shirt that members of Moms Matter proudly wear, with the slogan “Hold your head up, Princess. If not, the crown falls.” “It may sound silly,” Payne laughs, “but it is just a reminder that we use to
Payne says her late father, Robert Charles Payne, always encouraged her to “use her story” and her interests and passion to help others. Her father was a great motivator, and Payne says that he still motivates her by the things that he taught her while he was alive. She also draws strength and motivation from life of her late grandmother, Dr. Delores Beck Payne. Known to Laurie as “Mimi,” Dr. Payne became the first woman to receive a doctorate degree from what is now Northwestern State University. She was the wife of football coach Howard Devone Payne, Sr. who died in 1958, leaving her with four sons to care for on her own. The last Christmas present Laurie Payne received from her father before he died was her grandmother’s Bible. It is a gift that she cherishes. “Whenever I wonder how I am going to do this alone,” Payne says, “I just think ‘If Mimi could raise four boys alone, I can raise one.’” That is the just the kind of motivation that Moms Matter is all about. Whitney Walker Foster of Family Solutions Counseling Center in Monroe says she has seen the positive effect of Moms Matter on women who are affiliated with the group. “Moms Matter is a supportive and encouraging environment for single moms. They can connect with people who face similar joys and challenges and who know the schedule of long days and nights short on sleep because all of the responsibility is on one person. I think it’s a group that gives dignity and respect to the role of single moms.” Foster also recommends Moms Matter to mothers looking to “form faith-based relationships with other people and with God” as they travel the road of a single mom. For more information or to get involved with Moms Matter, contact Laurie Payne at paynelaurie@yahoo.com or visit their Facebook page: Moms Matter.
“ it’s a group that gives dignity and respect to the role of single moms
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lift and support each other.” “This group is so encouraging,” says Payne. The older women mentor the younger ones, giving advice and sharing what they feel they did wrong or right in looking back over their own experiences. Payne adds that “It has also been an accountability group for me. I can’t give up when others are counting on me.”
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Affinity Health Group Affinity Welcomes Dr. Joseph Dean, Jr., Urologist
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IKE MOST LOCAL BUSINESSES, the idea for Affinity Health Group (Affinity) started out small. In 2007, some area primary care physicians joined together to offer their services to patients in northeast Louisiana. Recognizing an ever-growing need for local urological services in our area, Affinity expanded to offer those services. In 2013, Dr. Lee Humble relocated to our area after practicing urology in Vicksburg for over 20 years. He is now joined by Dr. Joseph Dean, Jr. of New Orleans and our region’s newest urologist. Dr. Joseph Dean, Jr., received his Bachelor of Science in Physics from Howard University in Washington D.C. and his Medical Degree from the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. He subsequently completed his Urology residency at Tulane University with a fellowship in kidney transplantation. Dr. Dean has over 30 years of experience and is a member of the American Urological Association, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and board certified by the American Board of Urology. Dr. Dean comes from a medical family with both his mom and dad practicing medicine. He says his interest in urology came from the opportunity to treat all patients – men, women and children, and truly wishes to help people, something that impacted him during his time at Charity Hospital in New Orleans. He explains that treating urological issues can help improve other health complications, improving a patient’s overall quality of life. Dr. Dean and Dr. Humble, along with Drs. Brad Johnson and Arthur Liles, provide services at Affinity Urology, located at 2516 Broadmoor Blvd. in Monroe. Together, Affinity’s Urologists treat the following comprehensive conditions: • Prostate Health - Our urologists offer the most effective prostate cancer screenings as well as the latest surgical and non-surgical 36 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
treatments for prostate disease. • I ncontinence - Our urologists employ effective and efficient medical and surgical treatment modalities to control this condition. • Kidney Stones - The most modern treatments available, including lasers and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, are used to remove stones. • Impotence - Our urologists offer complete evaluation, accurate diagnosis and a variety of treatment options. Affinity’s urology team is specially trained to provide treatments that can include medications, injections, counseling or surgery. • Vasectomy and Vasectomy Reversal Permanent sterilization or microscopic reversal of a previous vasectomy can be performed quickly and efficiently by our urologists. • Pediatric Urology - Children with urologic problems, such as undescended testes, hernias and congenital anomalies, are treated with special care and sensitivity. Affinity Urology is only one of many specialties located inside the Affinity Specialty Clinics. This three-story facility is divided into 15 separate clinics, each with one or more physicians, as well as administrative and conference room spaces. Approximately 50 medical professionals fill the new addition with concentrations in cardiology, general surgery, otolaryngology, urology and orthopedics. In addition to medical offices, the Affinity Specialty Clinics location also houses on-site CT scan and X-ray, a casting room, a nuclear suite, stress machine, blood drawing areas, nurses and physician stations and a lab with the Beckman Coulter Access II (which is able to provide same-day testing for PSA, Free PSA and a Prostate Health Index).
With the opening of the newest facility, Affinity providers and their staff now serve over 20 clinics in north Louisiana while employing 500+ medical and administrative professionals. Affinity is committed to helping ensure that patients of all ages have access to quality health care by bringing additional practitioners, as needed, to our area. This goal is important to Affinity, because the general public in our area needs to know and understand the benefits of practicing healthy lifestyle habits in order to prevent more serious and costly complications. Many in northeast Louisiana have not had access to the basic services that relate to primary or preventive medical care. Affinity staff is working hard to help ensure that the medical needs of our underserved market are met and will continue to be met in the future. At Affinity Health Group, our mission is to proactively seek opportunities to improve the quality of healthcare, while balancing the cost of that care. Affinity is committed to service, patient satisfaction, healthy solutions and overall wellness of patients. For more information about Affinity Health Group, visit www.myaffinityhealth.com or call 318-807-7875. Affinity complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex. ATTENTION: If you have limited English proficiency, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-888-823-1910 (TTY: 1-866-5245144). ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-888-823-1910 (TTY: 1-866-524-5144). ATTENTION: Si vous parlez français, des services d’aide linguistique vous sont proposes gratuitement. Appelez le 1-888823-1910 (ATS: 1-866-524-5144).
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Rayville Recovery A New Beginning
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UBSTANCE USE AND DEPENDENCE is a huge problem for families and communities throughout the nation and appears to be expanding at an alarming rate. At Rayville Recovery, we are committed to providing quality inpatient treatment for individuals with serious drug and alcohol problems. While there are outpatient programs available, sometimes the intensity of inpatient care is necessary to enable persons with addictions to modify their behaviors and work toward long-term sobriety when they complete treatment. WHY RAYVILLE RECOVERY? The decision to enter treatment is a difficult one to make. One factor in making that decision is your readiness for treatment; it is hoped that you are coming into treatment to work on your particular problem and not just trying to meet the demands of relatives, the court or others. The other important factor is to choose a facility in which you can receive competent care; we believe that the information below will show our levels of competence and caring. Rayville Recovery has been in operation for over eight years, providing inpatient care for persons with addiction. We are licensed by the Department of Health and Hospitals and are required to meet the standards established by that body. Additionally, we are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), which provides further standards to ensure that individuals will receive quality care. Rayville Recovery has an experienced and dedicated staff. Our treatment team is composed of physicians, nurses and counselors that provide the care and treatment
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for persons with addictions. Our Medical Director has over 30 years of medical practice. Our Director of Nursing has over five years experience in working in a substance abuse setting, and the Program Director has over 30 years in the behavioral health field. Almost all the counselors have a Master’s Degree and many are independently licensed. PROGRAMS AT RAYVILLE RECOVERY Detoxification - the use of some substances require that individuals receive extra monitoring to ensure that no serious physical health consequencesdevelop. When individuals have been dependent on opiates (Lortab, roxycontin, oxycontin), benzodiazepines (Xanax, valium, klonopin), or alcohol they may be placed in the detoxification program. Rayville Recovery has a medically supported detoxification program. Therefore, no replacement drugs (suboxone, methadone) are used. The typical course for detoxification is five days. Residential Rehabilitation - This is typically a four-week program. Persons in the rehabilitation program are assigned a counselor and develop with the counselor an individualized treatment plan to address the individual’s addiction problem, discharge plans and other important life areas. The great majority of the treatment and therapy is conducted in a group setting. This is important because a great deal of what one learns in the treatment setting is derived from interaction among peers. Rayville Recovery uses the 12Step model for recovery. While a person will not be able to complete more than the first two steps during the course of treatment, this will provide the basis for further participation in 12-Step programs when discharged to a
community setting. Co-occurring disorders - Sometimes individuals will have a substance use disorder and will have been diagnosed and treated for a serious mental disorder. These individuals will participate in the Residential Rehabilitation program, plus receive some additional assessment and individual sessions from licensed clinicians. OTHER SERVICES Discharge Planning - Rayville Recovery has a staff member whose main task is to ensure that individuals that complete treatment are discharged into a setting that will be conducive to their continued recovery. This may include discharging to a half-way house, a three-quart er house or outpatient treatment. Intake Services - our intake staff works hard to ensure that every person that needs and wants treatment will receive it. Once a person has made the difficult decision to receive treatment, Intake staff will work to eliminate barriers to admission. In the event that we are not able to admit a person into our program, we will provide referrals to other programs or resources that will be able to provide help. ADVANTAGES OF OUR PROGRAM Our program is based on principals that have been shown to be successful for decades. Because our Residential Rehabilitation program takes about four weeks to complete, persons that are employed can transition back to their jobs better, and lose less pay and benefits compared to six week or 90 day programs. For residents of North Louisiana, the participants in our program are closer to family and other supportive systems.
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Ross Lynn Foundation Main Street Exchange Vendors Give Back
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RAVERSING A PRECARIOUS MOUNTAIN RIDGE WITH ease high above Montana’s Paradise Valley. Serenading friends with song around a backyard campfire. Or total immersion of the soul into a new sculpture, photography essay or poem. This is how family and friends remember Ross Lynn — always seeking new adventures through travel, climbing, art and spiritual exploration. His life selflessly inspired and challenged others to do the same. The Ross Lynn Foundation’s mission is to carry on his legacy by providing financial support and programs to those who seek to cultivate compassion, nurture the creative spirit and live with hope of the greater good. Ross was born and raised on the family farm in Louisiana, and shaped as a young man by the sweeping mountain ranges of the West. It was in Montana, where he learned to climb and found a passion for world travel. He shared a rope with many of the top mountaineers in the world on climbing trips that took him to six continents and the highest peaks in South America and the Himalayas. He volunteered his time at the Alex Lowe Charitable Foundation’s Khumbu Climbing Center in Phortse, Nepal. Ross spent countless hours in the workshop chiseling his hands as a blossoming artist and craftsman. His artistry transcended various mediums and styles, from abstract iron sculptures, to photography, writing and music. Yoga and meditation guided Ross in his spiritual journey later in life. As a contemplative student of Richard Rohr and Thomas Merton, Ross lived out of a deepening faith with gratitude and presence. His rhythm of life was grounded in peace and profound love, and he found expression through a quiet responsiveness of serving the underserved. Travel a short way to Ruston, Louisiana and through the doors of Main Street Exchange, and there you will find Ross’ mother, Jane. She and the rest of his family are responsible for carrying out this legacy of love, both through the outreach of the retail space and through the life of the foundation. She says, “Ross’ life called those who knew him to examine their own lives daily and be more present to all of life with passion.” Through this legacy of respect and reciprocity, The Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation was created. The foundation supports endeavors of altruism through three different channels: humanitarian travel, the arts and spiritual development. The foundation fosters those exploring inwardly and 40 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
living fearlessly for the greater good by supporting partnership of the Alex Lowe Charitable Foundation, through personal and cultural expeditions and by a supporting partnership of One Great River’s Health Trekker Challenge. They also nurture those creating passionately through art, craftsmanship and music by providing an artist in residence grant, a supporting partnership of the Renzi Center for Education and Art, curating local artists works at the Main Street Gallery Shop and offering creative writing workshop like the one that will be held on April 18-24, 2017 in Belcher, Louisiana. This workshop will be led by Robert Benson and is limited to a maximum of 10 persons. The instructors fees are underwritten by The Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation and a charge of $500 includes lodging and meals for the length of the workshop. Another arm of the foundation is to foster spiritual development by embracing those living soulfully with respect to all life. The Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation offers sabbatical grants for spiritual leaders, assists in pilgrimages and has a supporting partnership of Journey Partners, a training in Spiritual Direction program. One of the main fundraising efforts of The Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation is through the Main Street Exchange Vendors who join the FriendsGiving efforts. FriendsGiving is fundraising through individual action through art and work. Several artisans, locally and regionally, give a portion of proceeds from the items sold within the shop directly to benefit the foundation. There is also a special label coffee for RLCF produced by Bonfire Coffee called Backroads and Bayous Blend, roasted exclusively for Main Street Exchange by a close friend of Ross Lynn. Another way to support RLCF is by participating in the annual Back Roads & Bayous Cross Country Trail Run and Day in the Country. This event is held every May at Lynn Farms in Gilliam, LA. Participants enjoy a scenic, twisting trail run in the country with a 10 mile, 3 mile or a 1/2 mile fun run. There is art, games and activities for the whole family, a post-race recovery with Breathe Yoga and food sourced from Mahaffey Farms and beer by Red River Brewing Company. The event is managed by Sports Spectrum, and proceeds raised by the Foundation’s run benefit the Renzi Education and Art Center and One Great River Health Trekker Challenge. For a complete list of upcoming events, more information on The Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation including contact information, Main Street Exchange store information and a link to donate, please visit their website at rosslynnfoundation.org
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Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School JGS Gives Thanks
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ESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD CATHOLIC SCHOOL has much to be thankful for this year. Recently, we celebrated the culmination of our 2nd JGS Annual Fund campaign. The success of the JGS Annual Fund campaign, as well as the fall festival celebration afterwards, was not only overwhelming but humbling. The love and generosity of our school families, friends and church parishioners proved what a special place Jesus the Good Shepherd has become over the years. We will publicize more photographs and “thank you’s” next month when everything has been finalized, but for now we just want to say that we are truly thankful for the students, families, friends, church parishioners and supporters who donated their time, talents, treasures and prayers to make our 2nd JGS Annual Fund campaign and fall festival an enormous success. A huge part of that success can be attributed to our 2016 Top Ram competitors, who worked tirelessly during this campaign to raise much needed funds for our school. We thank each of you for the love and dedication you have shown to all of us here at Jesus the Good Shepherd School! The strength of Jesus the Good Shepherd is not only demonstrated by the love of our families and parishioners, but it also serves as a tribute to all of the teachers, staff, principals and pastors who have served our school families since 1960. Over the years, many things have changed not only in American culture, but also in the landscape and lifestyles of the people of Northeast Louisiana, but one thing has stayed constant: the mission of Jesus the Good Shepherd. Our mission will always be to instill in each child a love of learning, a love of God, self and others. On September 11, 1960, Bishop Greco dedicated and blessed the school, while the religious sisters of the Daughters of the Cross of St. Matthew School and St. Vincent Academy in Shreveport graciously provided the original staff. Sr. Maria Smith, D.C., who served as a teacher for seven years and subsequently principal from 1980-1997, remembers when she was first driven to Monroe to see Jesus the Good Shepherd and witnessing the “beautiful buildings” of the church and school in the midst of acres and acres of cotton plants. 42 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
She remembered the love that parents and grandparents had for the Sisters and how the students of JGS School considered their school a wonderful place, because they always felt welcomed, loved, secure and respected. Those attributes have certainly stayed constant over the years, and they remain true to this day. One of the unique aspects of a JGS education for which we are very thankful is our enrichment classes and activities. Religion, computer, art and music are only some of the additions to the exceptional academic curriculum at JGS. A popular enrichment activity, especially during this time of the year, is tending the school’s organic vegetable garden. Each grade is responsible for a plot, and the entire school benefits from the fresh vegetables that are prepared and served in the cafeteria during each harvest. Learning and observing firsthand the amazing works of God’s creation in the garden is something that will stay with the students throughout their lives, and for that we are truly thankful! At Jesus the Good Shepherd, we are thankful for our faithful, certified teachers who nurture and educate our children with Christian compassion in a Christ-centered atmosphere of academic excellence. We are thankful that we are able to offer tuition assistance to families who otherwise may not be able to send their children to our school and become such vital parts of our school family. We are most especially thankful for the vision, generosity and hard work of our parishioners and school families over the years, because of their dedication, Jesus the Good Shepherd has been a thriving school and parish for more than fifty years. God has truly blessed us, and we pray that He will continue to do so for many more years to come. If you are interested in learning more about Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School, please call the school office at (318) 3258569 to schedule your school tour with our principal, Mrs. Lisa Patrick, or visit our website at www.jesusgoodshepherd.org. School tours are offered every Tuesday at 9 a.m. or by appointment.
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Marsala Beverage Company Welcomes SweetWater Brewery to the Family
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WEETWATER’S ROOTS BEGAN BACK IN BOULDER, CO in the early 90s, while Freddy Bensch and Kevin McNerney were roommates at the University of Colorado, Boulder. During their time out west, they realized they had more of a hankering for beer than books. Their first step into the profession was washing kegs on the loading docks of a local brewery for free beer. Not a bad job when you’re in college! With all this free beer, their grades went up, their cars got fixed, friends were plentiful and the sun shined a little brighter. Once they were finished with school, it was time to either find a real job, or get serious in the brewing business. Easy choice, right? Freddy and Kevin headed off to the American Brewers Guild in California aka Brewing School to sharpen up their knowledge of “Fermentation Science!” After that, they were off and running, brewing beer for other breweries around the West Coast, learning their craft while keeping the dream of their own place alive. In the summer of 1996, the energy and action of the Olympics brought Freddy to Atlanta. He found the town in need of a West Coast style brewery and knew that he and Kevin were just the guys to turn the local brewing scene on its ear with the hoppy, aggressive ales they had been brewing for years. The boys scraped together (with the help of generous friends, family and loans) just enough money to get started, and the first brewery for SweetWater was off of Fulton Industrial Boulevard, on Atlanta’s west side. As they were building their very own brewery, Freddy sought a little cool relief by kayaking down Sweetwater Creek, in a state park just west of the brewery. The name of the brewery became obvious, and the motto “Don’t Float the Mainstream” became the guide. February 17, 1997 marked the official beginning of SweetWater Brewery, and a new style of brewing and selling beer in Atlanta, as the boys wandered around Atlanta in an old van with Freddy’s dog, Badger. After ending up on the wrong side of the tracks a few times, they were finally pointed in the direction of Virginia-Highlands and found a few bars willing to take a chance on them. “We’ll give you a shot as long as your dog stops begging for leftovers on our patio” was the cautious approval they needed to get the brand rolling. SweetWater’s second and current location is in Midtown Atlanta. The boys saved all of their pennies to buy the 25,000 square feet of brewing goodness and smack in the middle of all the action. Since the company began, they have wanted to be closer to their homes, the
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bars and stores that sell their beer, and all the good folks that drink it. Fortunately, seven years of great growth gave the company that opportunity. They have learned a lot from that location and left all their mistakes behind as they built their new home. SweetWater Brewing Company has been around since 2004, and it feels good to them to be settled in. Their new home has enough capacity to brew 400,000 barrels of beer a year (A few more years at this rate). “Marsala Beverage is thrilled to introduce the SweetWater portfolio to Northeast Louisiana. SweetWater is a successful regional brewery that will fit right in with our current portfolio. They’re a unique brewery that loves to sell beer, and they have a lot of fun doing it. Be on the look-out for the SweetWater brand very soon,” says Tyler Flemister, VP of Marketing for Marsala Beverage. SweetWater IPA - The Beer You’ve Been Training For! This mammoth IPA is defined by generous quantities of premium hops. Extensive dry hopping contributes to its intense hop character. This beer is unfiltered to leave all the natural flavors intact and is a favorite of the brewery staff. Best enjoyed within 90 days. SweetWater Hash Session IPA Gist of the grist is mellow at 4.20% ABV, laying down the base to showcase the blazin’ Amarillo hop hash sunset. Hook set - tip up! SweetWater Blue - Ain’t Just for Breakfast Anymore A unique light bodied Wheat Ale, enhanced with a hint of fresh blueberries! The euphoric experience begins with an appealing blueberry aroma. Take a good whiff, and you’ll know. The taste though is extremely subtle and finishes extra clean. This ain’t no fruit beer, but it is our breakfast beer and so delicious with pancakes! One of the first two beers to come out of our brewery back in 1997, Blue is part of our year round lineup and is line priced with SweetWater’s other lip smackin’ core styles. SweetWater 420 Extra Pale Ale - Drink ‘Em if Ya Got Em! Our most popular brew! A tasty West Coast style extra pale ale accentuated with a stimulating hop character. Brewed with 2 row, Munich and 40L malt and a heady dose of cascade and centennial hops. First conceived in our bat cave on 4-20, 1997 this kind beer keeps the wheels on the bus going round and round. 420 is part of our year round lineup and is line priced with SweetWater’s other lip smackin’ core styles.
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I REMEMBER article by PAUL LIPE
I REMEMBER our whole-family,
February gathering out in Dallas for the purpose of celebrating the 9th birthday of Anna Kathryn. Anna Kathryn is the second child of our son Jonathan and his wife, Mary Linda, and is a sister to Sarah, Jon Paul and Lilly (who, at that time, had not yet been born). In addition to Jon’s family, the celebrants included my wife, Linda, and me, and my daughter, Mary Linda, from Jackson, Mississippi, her husband, and her children Trey and Mary Hastings. We enjoyed the special occasion at an indoor water park at Great Wolf Lodge just north and west of Dallas. Following a fun-filled day, the ladies remained overnight at the lodge, while the guys (there were 5 of us) returned to Jon’s house to spend the night. The girls in the family spent the whole of the next day doing what they do best – shopping! In fact, they had so much fun in that endeavor that, when they finally returned home, it was too late for them to prepare dinner. So, they ordered take-out from what they thought was one of Anna Kathryn’s favorite restaurants – Pei Wei, a place that specializes in Oriental cuisine. One of the dishes was Honey-Seared Chicken, again, a choice that they thought would please “AK.” As the result of his business responsibilities, Jon missed out on the dinner, but when he reached home that evening, he asked “AK” how she had liked her birthday “doings.” She replied that everything had
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been great except for the take-out dinner. “But,” she added, “I don’t like Honey-Seared Chicken, and I don’t like Pei Wei.” Her Dad’s response to this was, “Kat Kat, honey, can’t you be a little more positive?” She broke us up with her reply: “O. K., I’m POSITIVE that I don’t like Honey-Seared Chicken, and I am POSITIVE that I don’t like Pei Wei!” This young lady taught us an important lesson that evening – it is possible to be positive about a negative! I am persuaded that it is as important to refrain from wrong conduct and behavior as it is to engage in doing what is good and right. Examine, for instance, the Ten Commandments, which are the basis for Judeo-Christian ethic. Over half of these commandments are concerned with things we are to avoid, things we are told NOT to do. Do you think God may have realized that the temptation to do wrong was stronger than the inducement to follow right paths! At any rate, when He tells us not to steal and not to murder, He is very positive about those negatives. As parents, and as grandparents, we want the best for our children. Therefore, we try to implant in their developing minds the principle that doing good things is a good thing! We encourage them to be kind, thoughtful, honest, pure, trustworthy, disciplined, dependable, loving…the list could go on and on. What an encouragement it is to see this kind of character being formed in our offspring! Observing
these positive traits in those we love is a source of incredible joy. Almost as important to us, however, is being confident that those dearest to our hearts are learning NOT to practice habits that are harmful. We want them to be as committed to refraining from wrong thoughts and actions as they are to pursuing those good qualities which are so critical to us. I like a phrase from Nancy Reagan, wife of one of our greatest Presidents, who, in reference to drugs, said, “Just say no.” It should be evident to us all that as doing “right” things pays a good dividend, so does doing inappropriate things have its negative consequences. Therefore, let us be positive that we will NOT engage in activities that are not virtuous and admirable. We should be devoted to doing what is noble, but also as committed to avoiding what is unworthy. May we all, then, operate under a strong conviction, a positive conviction that we will not be guilty of doing those things that will have negative, bad consequences. And let us have the courage to promote our positions that involve a positive negative. If something does not have God’s approval, shun it – and encourage others to do the same. I hope we can agree that it is O.K., even commendable to have a positive negative, because, when it comes to the approaching Presidential election, I am POSITIVE that I will NOT vote for …
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FLOWERS
Fines Herbes
The awe-inspiring lavender fields of France and the unique gastronomy of the French culture are cues that designer Gregory Hudgins uses to create this unique handtied bouquet. Instead of the canonic fines herbes of French haute cuisine: finely chopped parsley, chives, tarragon and chervil, Hudgins uses King Protea in soft pink and lavender hues, surrounded by fringe like greenery and hot pink hanging amaranthus to transport us to Provence. Photo by Martin Graham Meyers | Arrangement by Gregory Hudgins 48 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
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FLOWERS
Spice of Life
Designer Gregory Hudgins creates a bouquet inspired by the quintessential Moroccan spice mix, “Ras el hanout.� This vibrant as a Moroccan summer mix of spices usually consists of cardamom, cumin, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, allspice, dry ginger, chili peppers, coriander seed, peppercorn, sweet and hot paprika, fenugreek and dry tumeric. To capture the essence of a Moroccan summer, Hudgins hand-tied a bouquet of hot red peppers, vibrant fuchsia asters with bold yellow centers and spicy maroon and yellow yarrow. Photo by Martin Graham Meyers | Arrangement by Gregory Hudgins 50 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
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Breathing New Life Into Monroe Garden District Block Party Set for December 1st
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F THE TRUE VALUE OF A community revolves around the principle of caring, of actively doing what one can to provide something needed by another, whether it be hope, help or a hug, then one Monroe event may be promoting togetherness more than any other. Combining the spirits of charity and support with the desire to see Monroe and its citizens succeed and thrive, the third incarnation of the Garden District Block Party, to be held at the Ouachita Candy Company on December 1st, 2016, guarantees to deliver community bonding in a fun, family oriented gathering to encourage continued area growth and spur ahead small business creation, revitalization and preservation. When Ashley and Friday Ellis, owners of Governors Cigar and Pipe, and Caroline Youngblood joined to plan the initial Garden District Block Party in December of 2015, the notion of linking young professionals and entrepreneurs with established business leaders in an attempt to become part of the foundations to rejuvenate economic, social and cultural relevancy in downtown Monroe emerged as a key goal. Incorporating goodwill in the form of fundraising for Toys for Tots, an enterprise that continued into the second event in April of 2016, developed into an important component as well, that of giving of oneself, be it through donations of time or money in efforts to plant the seeds of local solidarity. After approximately 500 people attended the first gathering last December, around 1300 went to the 2nd event in April; fortunately for the party planners, Dr.
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Matt Sanderson provided the usage of the Ouachita Candy Company building at 315 Walnut St. for the second event, a location offering historic significance and the room for a budding city experience. As the event has snowballed, the goals for the next gathering have swelled. With Marsala Beverage as the primary sponsor, as well as through partnering efforts with the Downtown Gallery Crawl, the third installment, promising to eclipse the combined efforts of the previous two, involves Kelsea McCrary and Brad Arender heading up the artist element, Robert Knight leading the VIP crew, Chad Brooks coordinating the music acts, Troy Lizenby and Tyler Flemister organizing the craft beer collection, and FineFolks originators Lindsey Lowe and Taylor Bennett overseeing the overall attendee experience. Those choosing to attend can expect entry into a Shangri-La of the best of North Delta food, art and talent, all brought to them by resident crafters, creators and innovators, including RoeLA Roaster coffee by Byron Bailey, delectable pastries from Social Bites of Ruston and frothy brews by the Ouachita Brewing Company and Flying Tiger Brewery. Additionally, Russell Moore and Corey Britton will be displaying their sprucing skills with beard trims for patrons. Parents are encouraged to bring their children to gobble up freshly spun cotton candy and bounce to their hearts’ content in the jumpers. Perhaps the most exciting aspect of the festivities is the inclusion of a special musical guest, Texas native Charley Crockett, a gifted artist who beautifully
blends eclectic styles into a unique aural occasion. For those who wish for a more personalized adventure, VIP tickets will be available in advance. Possessing the golden pass affords multiple highlights, such as sampling specially crafted beer, receiving a signed poster from noted artist Chris Nolen, gaining early event access, getting a “swag bag” full of goodies, such as coozies and a shirt, private bar privileges, select concert seating and an extraordinary meal prepared by chef Blake Phillips. Considering these exceptional amenities, VIP tickets should quickly disappear along with the chance to embrace a one-of-a-kind excursion in downtown Monroe. Although called the Garden District Block Party, planners of this special occasion, Ashley and Friday Ellis, invite everyone hearing the call to attend. Without question, two of the primary goals of the event remain to heighten awareness about the precious commodities and services presented by local businesses and citizens as well as raise funds for those needing a bit of help. However, the ultimate goal is to promote togetherness, friendship and community merriment. Citizens of Monroe need to celebrate life together, to enjoy the company of each other, to share, to give, to want to embrace and be embraced. If nothing else, the Garden District Block Party pulls people together and gives us the opportunity to enjoy the talents, gifts and camaraderie of our local friends and extended family.
Palmetto Names New Director Hollye Rogers Appointed as Palmetto Chief Operating Officer
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N 1994, ONE YEAR AFTER OUR facility opened its doors, Hollye Rogers began working at Palmetto Addiction Recovery Center. Rogers soon began work as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Approved Clinical Supervisor. In 2010, Rogers was appointed director of the Professional Evaluation. Now she is beginning her new role as Chief Operating Officer (COO). “I hope to have the same effect on Palmetto that I aspired to instill on my patients; be mindful of where they came from but aim to cope with the world around us in a dynamic and effective manner,” says Rogers. At just 23, after graduating from The University of Louisiana at Monroe and Louisiana State University with a Master’s Degree in Social Work, Rogers began her career with Palmetto. Two decades of working with patients has helped her grow not only as a professional but also as an empathetic member of society. “When I started working here, my life experience was limited to the perspective of the average, newly graduated, college student. I was naive to some of the realities of the world around me. As I consoled and treated individuals from all walks of life, I realized that the struggle and crisis of addiction is not only the addicted person’s burden, but it’s also a collective responsibility as a community to help those in need,” says Rogers. Focusing on the mental, physical and spiritual aspects of recovery in coordination with family involvement is what sets
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Palmetto Addiction Recovery Center apart from other treatment facilities. Rogers explains this reputation, “We care deeply about the clients, not only while they are here, but in every step along their path, even after patients leave Palmetto. We strongly encourage clients to come back and share their experience with the new clients, as they begin the amazing journey to recovery.” Rogers says it is also the residents and alumni of Palmetto that have prepared her for her new role as COO, “I plan to focus on the needs of the patients and their families. I must have compassion for the sensitive and highly personal process of addiction treatment, while also having a firm disposition in regard to defiant and maladaptive behavior that often accompanies a diagnosis of addiction. A COO requires having a fluid personality that can perceive the issues of the environment with a proactive and stable temperament.” A dedicated and experienced staff is a key factor in making Palmetto an exceptional place for addiction and recovery treatment. As COO, Rogers plans to continue to build on that strong foundation. “I treat the staff I work with like family. We all have a specific role to play in defining a positive future for our clients, and I am the matriarch of said family. I guide with sympathy, but make decisions based on logic and wisdom gained from collective life experience of patients and staff that I have had the opportunity to work with throughout my career.” Our client’s experience at Palmetto is an
essential component on the road to recovery. It is important to maintain our facility as an effective hub for our valuable programs. Rogers has already begun to enhance the campus, stating “In terms of the physical aspect of the facility, we have begun renovating and modernizing the grounds to reflect the campus of a top tier treatment facility, not only for the state of Louisiana, but nationally as well.” Palmetto Addiction Recovery Center Board of Directors is enthusiastic for Rogers and her new role, “Given her expertise, dedication and experience, we are confident that Hollye will lead Palmetto to further growth and expansion. Palmetto will continue to deliver exceptional treatment and quality care to individuals and their family members. We are excited about the future at Palmetto, and we appreciate everyone’s continued support.” The Palmetto team of caring professionals shares over 250 years of combined experience in breaking the cycle of addiction. Their philosophy is that recovery must occur in three areas: physical, emotional and spiritual, with the treatment program designed to address all these aspects from day one. Palmetto is located on a beautiful 70-acre rural setting surrounded by Lake Lafouche. The private, tranquil locale promotes a safe, healing environment for treatment. The qualified trained staff encourages a return to basic living skills, development of non-addictive coping skills, recognition of character defects, development of a non-self-centered way of living, and a spiritual approach to life.
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CONDUCTOR Maestro Clay Couturiaux is in his twelfth season as Director and Conductor of the Monroe Symphony Orchestra. Music is his language – a universal language powerful enough to capture the full range of human experience. He has spent a career channeling the genius of great composers through his body and baton into the orchestra and to the ears of the audience. ARTICLE BY APRIL CLARK HONAKER PHOTOS BY CARMEL STUDIOS PHOTOGRAPHY
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onductors of music have a unique role. They essentially serve as lightning rods for the genius of great composers. They channel the magic of a musical score through their bodies and batons into the orchestra and ultimately the ears of the audience. Maestro Clay Couturiaux describes the art of conducting From Couturiaux’s perspective, an effective conductor has “to as “one of the most complex and demanding activities in the realm have a viewpoint” and has to “learn how to communicate a musiof music” because three things must come together: the conduccal idea to the orchestra, and through it, to the listener.” The protor’s personal study, the preparation of rehearsal and the culminacess is collaborative, and all participants in the performance must tion of the performance itself. work together like parts of a complex machine. For this reason, Entering his twelfth season as Director and Conductor of the Couturiaux must concern himself with more than the music. Monroe Symphony Orchestra, Couturiaux has been perfecting the “I try to understand the psychology of the players and unify art of conducting for years and said he can’t remember a time in all the varying personalities of the players into one harmonious his life when music wasn’t present. According to Couturiaux, “Mugroup,” he said. This process is challenging because not only do sic is an expression of the creativity and artistry that every human the players have unique personalities, they also play many instruhas. It incorporates every emotion, including the trials that bind ments. “At the same time,” Couturiaux said, “it is important to alus together.” Music is essentially a universal language to which low individual personalities we all can relate, and it has of the players to shine when the power to capture the full Orchestras add meaning to American life playing solos in orchestral range of human experience. by fostering the creativity of musicians and engaging the works.” By studying the Couturiaux could alpublic on and off the concert stage. They are an music and understanding ready sense this power of music when he started singimportant part of the community fabric, because music the players, the conductor lays the groundwork for the ing in the church choir at age speaks beyond class, beyond race, and to some extent even and performanc5. By age 8, he was playing beyond education. It doesn’t discriminate. Classical music rehearsals es. The culmination of this the piano, and soon playing is a simple statement that holds big meaning. process is seen in the synthe piano fueled his interest chronous movement and in other instruments. By age harmonious sound of all the parts functioning as intended. 10, Couturiaux had found his instrument, the violoncello. He said According to Couturiaux, this synchrony cannot be achieved that, because it was an orchestral instrument, the violoncello introwithout the technical and artistic preparation of rehearsal. During duced him to the symphony orchestra, and through the orchestra, rehearsals, Couturiaux said, “He acts like a guide to the orchestra, he gained an appreciation for all instruments. However, he admits building up in their minds a concept of the work that is his own.” to remaining biased toward the cello. He works with the players on rhythms, tempos, phrasing, accen The orchestra also led Couturiaux to his true calling as a contuation, presenting melodies, combining counter-melodies and ductor. After attending his first orchestra rehearsal as a cellist at climaxes. He also helps them “feel the style of the music with the age 12, he knew he wanted to be a conductor. Couturiaux said, fullness of its emotional expression.” Rehearsal gives the conduc“Understanding what a conductor actually did opened up a new tor an opportunity to refine the performance and the concept. As world to me.” Although he views great composers as the “true geCouturiaux said, while hearing the work, he “checks his own conniuses” and is content to leave the work of composing to them, he cept of the music, comparing it with the actual music.” When the believes the role of the orchestra is to perform and to “recreate their two don’t match, he must make adjustments, so that the concept music.” That process of re-creation is driven by the conductor. and the reality come as close as possible to mirroring one another. According to Couturiaux, “The conductor prepares himself Similarly, Couturiaux described the orchestra as a mirror for both technically and artistically. He must be a musician, historithe conductor. “When you’re able to convey your idea and the oran, orchestrator and listener. He must study the score, so that he chestra is receptive,” he said, “it reaches the audience as if ampli‘hears’ it in his mind.” In a sense, the conductor must analyze and fied by the musicians’ artistry and their ability to relate.” This aminterpret the music beforehand. He must also understand its hisplification can have a powerful, almost magical effect. It can create tory and stylistic requirements, because, as Couturiaux pointed “an invaluable experience for the listener,” something Couturiaux out, “a Mozart allegro differs from a Tchaikovsky allegro, just as a hopes will happen during every concert. Haydn forte is entirely different from a Wagner forte.” During the To achieve this level of musical perfection, “each member of analysis, Couturiaux said he “begins to balance the many strands the orchestra must sense that I leave him free,” Couturiaux said. of musical line.” This initial preparation is important, because it “Obviously, that’s an illusion, but it’s necessary for the musician allows a conductor to shape a unique vision for the performance. to believe it.” Couturiaux emphasized that each member of the orAs Couturiaux said, it allows him “to pace its progress, space its chestra must not feel pressured and instead “must feel in harmony climaxes, derive an aural concept and evaluate its merit as it will with what is suggested.” In a sense, conducting is a silent language be heard by the public.” Sometimes Couturiaux even changes the capable of coordinating auditory magic, but according to Couturimusic to better illustrate its spirit. He said, “It is necessary to alter aux, this language and its magic are not well understood by the dynamics and in some cases instrumentation to hear the music as general public. “Often,” he said, “the superficial and exterior parts the composer intended.” of conducting are exaggerated, and the inner realities of the art are completely unperceived.” Although, according to Couturiaux, “a good conductor is an integral part of the orchestra,” the illusion of effortlessness—of
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magic—causes some members of the audience to view him as an illusionist, but conductors, including Couturiaux, aren’t born magicians. Their talent has to be cultivated. Along his path to becoming a conductor, Couturiaux earned his Bachelor of Music in violoncello from the University of North Texas in Denton, graduating with honors in 1994. He then continued his studies at the University of North Texas, earning a master’s and a doctorate in orchestral conducting by 2000. While pursuing his degrees, Couturiaux had the privilege to learn from Maestro Anshel Brusilow, a man for whom the word passion, according to Couturiaux, “cannot explain the kind of commitment and emotional involvement he has with music.” Couturiaux added that he feels indebted to Brusilow for all he has learned
from him. “I admire his ability to inspire musicians, draw out of the players everything they have to give and more, but especially his courage as innovator and interpreter,” Couturiaux said, adding that Brusilow is “a model of what the performer could and should dare in musical performance.” Couturiaux not only learned from his professors in Texas. He traveled to other cities and Puerto Rico, learning from a variety of great conductors who had worked with Pierre Monteux, George Szell and Eugene Ormandy. While in school, Couturiaux also worked as Assistant Conductor of the East Texas Symphony Orchestra, played the cello in multiple symphony orchestras and taught private cello lessons in the Plano and Lewisville, Texas, school districts. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 59
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hen, shortly after earning his doctorate, Couturiaux was offered a position as Assistant Director of Orchestral Studies in the College of Music at the University of North Texas. Couturiaux still holds this position today, and his family remains rooted in the Dallas-Fort Worth area where he grew up. He and his wife Desirée live in Corinth just south of Denton, Texas, and have two girls, Addie (12) and Ava (9). In addition to teaching, Couturiaux maintains two Director and Conductor positions, one with the Monroe Symphony Orchestra and the second with the Richardson Symphony Orchestra in Richardson, Texas. In addition to maintaining these positions, Couturiaux’s expertise in music and conducting has allowed him to travel all over the world from Vietnam to Italy, educating others and guest conducting. One of the things he appreciates most as an educator is the privilege to share his own experience as a performer with his students. In traveling to conduct and educate, Couturiaux said, “I’ve truly enjoyed working with orchestras in different countries and have learned that the personalities of individual musicians in orchestras, no matter from what country, always come out in the musical performance.” Couturiaux believes, “Live performance cannot be replaced! It’s about passion and music-making at the highest level. It’s also about daring to embrace a spirit of joyous adventure.” According to Couturiaux, a performance requires the conductor to function at the pinnacle of his abilities under the most challenging of circumstances. In that moment, said Couturiaux, “the conductor can immerse himself in the music” while remaining prepared to adjust as needed, so that the work itself comes to life. Live performance has an unpredictable quality that conductors learn to navigate through experience. Couturiaux has grown to appreciate this quality, explaining, “The great and sometimes deadly thing about live performance is that anything can happen. It’s how you react to what happens (both good and bad) in that moment that truly defines a performance.” No matter how many times a performance is rehearsed, it will pulse with that tinge of unpredictability, which makes it exciting whether you are a player, conductor or listener. Just as each performance is evolving, the symphony orchestra itself is evolving. According to Couturiaux, it must evolve to keep pace with our changing culture. While some traditional conductors would frown on technology’s impact on the symphony, Couturiaux chooses to embrace it. He believes it can enhance and entertain, and he is not opposed to the idea of lighting enhancements or using video montages to accompany performances. He also believes social media has its place and that it can be used for promotional or educational purposes, if done in ways that don’t interfere with the audience’s enjoyment of the performance. Couturiaux also believes it’s important to consider what the community wants to hear when selecting music for the concert season and to strive for variety. Other factors, such as his own preferences, the musicians’ preferences and their need for artistic development, play a role in selection as well. In the end, Couturiaux believes that “orchestras add meaning to American life by fostering the creativity of musicians and engaging the public on and off the concert stage.” He said, “They are an important part of the community fabric, because music speaks beyond class, beyond race, and to some extent even beyond education. It doesn’t discriminate. Classical music is a simple statement that holds big meaning.”
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Tonore’s Wine Cellar Iconic Monroe Business
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OVEMBER 1ST MARKS A SPECIAL occasion for the Kicey Family. It is the day that they officially became owners of an iconic Monroe establishment. Tonore’s Wine Cellar has stood proudly on the corner of 8th and Louisville since 1935. George Tonore Sr. started his business, a small grocery store, when Louisville Avenue was still a gravel road. He had the foresight to make changes to the nature of the business as times changed. In 1963, Tonore started carrying mostly wines and liquor. The store evolved into a shop that had one of the most diverse selections of wines found anywhere in the United States and in 1974, the name officially changed to Tonore’s Wine Cellar. Russell Kicey is no stranger to the industry. 29 years ago, he started working for Marsala Beverage Company. In addition to the many positions he held during his time there, he developed their craft beer portfolio, as well as their wine and spirits portfolio from inception. Russell became friends with the Tonore family through his job at Marsala. By that time, the store was being run by George Tonore Jr. Kicey jokingly mentioned to Tonore in passing that he would be interested in buying the business when George was ready to retire. Little did he know that Tonore and his wife had prayed to find someone to come into their lives and take over the establishment. Their main hope was that the new owners would carry on their traditions and uphold the integrity of the business. It was not an easy decision for the Kiceys. His wife, Julie, had been teaching 62 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
almost as long as he had been employed by Marsala. For two people who had been in the same job, each for nearly 30 years, the choice demanded major consideration. After lots of talking, they decided to take the leap, and accepted the offer. They made good on their promise. For the past year they have continued to give back to charity, something that was very important to the family business. Each season they hold a tasting that benefits a local organization, 3 wine tastings and one whiskey tasting (Russell added the whiskey tasting). Some of the organizations that have benefitted from the events are Krewe of Janus, Boy Scouts, Quota Club, Rotary Club, Susan G Komen, ARCO, Family Promise and Med Camps. Other traditions that the Kicey’s continue are their party planning services, which includes wedding receptions, engagement parties and birthday parties, as well as their delivery service. Tonore’s will deliver for free to a reasonable area with any order of $150 pretax. With the holidays approaching, many people turn to Tonore’s for holiday gift baskets. They can create custom baskets with anything from wine to whiskey to beer, gourmet foods, gifts and more. Whatever the budget, they can accommodate your needs. They will deliver baskets to clients and friends as gifts during the holiday season. Out of town family members often order gift baskets for loved ones. It’s as easy as making a phone call. With Russell’s background starting
with beer, it comes as no surprise that he has expanded Tonore’s craft beer selection, always stocking the latest, newest brands and styles of beers. In fact, they now house the largest selection of craft beer in north Louisiana. If you are looking for a hand picked selection of craft beers, Russell can help. If there is anything you want that they don’t have, chances are very good that they can order it for you. Tonore’s Wine Cellar remains a family owned business that treats people like family. The Kiceys offer a comfortable and accommodating atmosphere with a rich history. A few additions have been made since the family became proud owners of the store. From a humble beginning, the business has grown to become a household name in the area. The Kicey family is committed to offering its patrons the same service that they’ve always experienced, and the same great selection of beer, spirits and wine. The Kicey Family would like to thank the community for the overwhelming amount of support they have received during their first year of business. They hope to be serving you for many years to come! Tonore’s Wine Cellar 801 Louisville Avenue in Monroe (318) 325-4100 Find them on Facebook for new arrivals and specials.
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Fitzco Marine Group Serving the Waterfront of the U.S. Since 1979
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IKE FITZPATRICK, OWNER/FOUNDER OF FITZCO has spent all his life on and around the water. He started in business in 1979 at the age of 19. Having been instilled with values and principles from the beginning, he truly operates his business by the Golden Rule. Fitzpatrick has a passion for educating folks on marine construction, to help them get the best “bang for their buck.” Fitzco has recently partnered with Joe Terracina of River Marine Works on the Ouachita and Red Rivers, as well as local lakes in Northern Louisiana to provide a level of quality unlike any other in the area. They offer unsurpassed customer service and quality for your marine construction needs. Mike’s message is that floating docks shouldn’t be unkempt looking structures with vegetation growing out of the “exposed foam” flotation. They shouldn’t have poorly painted steel framework and columns. The problem is with the original design of the docks, most of which are not repairable, as the concrete decking has been poured on top of the foam flotation with a steel frame around it. “At Fitzco, we do many things differently… for a reason,” says Fitzpatrick. “We believe that your dock should secure your boat, not the other way around. Over the years, we have developed equipment and processes specific to improving our finished product while increasing efficiency. This has led to unmatched ability and quality in the maritime construction industry in the areas of pile driving (we can even drill and install piles in bed rock), bulk heading, floating and fixed structures and underwater recovery of sunken vessels.” “With us, it’s about designing it and building it correctly…. once,” says Mike. “If it’s already been built and is not performing, we will redesign it and rebuild it correctly…. once. If you choose us for your next project on the water, whether it’s replacing pilings, 64 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
installing a bulk head, building a new floating or fixed pier or an elaborate custom boat house, prepare to be impressed.” Their system features: • Encapsulated float modules that are replaceable should one become compromised (which will not allow vegetation to exist) • Galvanized steel frames with the floats attached thereto so as to prevent any direct exposure of steel to the water • Precast, steel reinforced concrete deck panels which can be removed to access utilities or to replace in the event one becomes compromised. • All galvanized steel components alleviate the need to paint anything resulting in a truly “maintenance free” design. “I’ve been designing and building floating dock structures, from small private docks to massive commercial marinas, as well as consulting for other marine contractors, for over 30 years,” states Fitzpatrick. “It’s simple,” he says, “Fitzco and River Marine Works want you to enjoy more time on the water! Contact Fitzco Marine today by calling Mike Fitzpatrick (318584-7003) or Joe Terracina (318-665-0190 or 318-614-2406). 323 Moon Lake Road, Monroe, LA 71203 P.O. Box 466, Shell Knob, MO 65747 • 417-858-BOAT (2628) 212 Flat River Road, Bossier City, LA 71112 • 318-584-7003 Fitzco Marine Construction • AirHoist Boatlift Systems Century Maritime • MariTow U.S. “Serving the waterfront of the U.S. since 1979”
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High, Low and Just Right Jolly and Tim Brandon’s Guest House Indian Lakes • West Monroe, LA ARTICLE BY MARÉ BRENNAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN G MEYERS INTERIOR DESIGN BY MYRON GRIFFING
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hen Shreveport interior designer Myron Griffing of Space: Interiors got the call from his good friends Jolly and Tim Brandon of West Monroe, he knew it was going to be a fun adventure. Tim, an architect, had converted a one-room garage and storage building into a lakefront guest house to complement his family’s compound in Indian Lakes. Tim redesigned the space to include a full kitchen, living area and a bedroom with an en suite bathroom. This little cabin in the woods is a perfect retreat on warm summer days or when crisp fall air descends on the hills surrounding the Brandon’s home. Says Tim, “We wanted the space to be cool but not too modern and rustic but not too country. Of course, we called Myron to help us pull this off. Jolly grew up with Myron, and we’ve known each other for years, since our time as students at Louisiana Tech. He has an amazing eye and sense of style. There was no question. We had to have him, James Osborne and the Space: Interiors team transform this space for us.” Adds Myron, “The process of design is always fun, especially with Tim and Jolly. We drink a lot of coffee and laugh — a lot!” Like something straight from an HGTV design show, the Brandons’ parameters were simple but challenging for Myron and his design company, Space: Interiors. The designer had three days and budget to stick to – and make it look fabulous! Space: Interiors’ mission was to create an inviting space for the family and guests to be enjoyed for years to come and succeed they did. Myron and company are known for creating well-collected spaces with a great mix of high/low items. “I love how Myron mixes textures - and that nothing he bought for the space was over $900,” says the homeowner. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 67
“The guest house was completely empty, when I first made a walk-through,” says Myron. “The paint colors had been picked, and the natural wood trim would remain throughout the space.” To get started on the project, the designer first pre-measured the space then took inventory of furniture and accessories from the main house that could make the move to the guest house. The cocktail table was just one of the interesting pieces that transitioned over. Myron loved its industrial feel and metal riveted top. During the design phase, Myron tried to narrow down the selections and give a low, medium and high option for key pieces. Going through the process, says Tim, “We got a million text messages with photos. It’s easy to respond that way and it’s nice how he communicated and walked us through the project.” Throughout the space, the design pairings create unique energy. For example, a one-of-a-kind teak root console found at Paul Michael Company is partnered with a lamp sourced at Tuesday Morning. On the other side of the room an original mid-century modern painting found at Walsworth & Company is anchored above a rolling console/buffet. Antique shelves are filled with sentimental objects and a collection of vintage metal coin boxes that Myron started for the family. “The beauty of accessorizing is that as a designer we can introduce our clients to new things. And sometimes that means bearing with us during the design phase to see the project to the end.” 68 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
Throughout the space, the design pairings create unique energy.
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The Brandon family shares a love to the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. The artwork in the guest house reflects that passion in fun ways like the watercolor of an elk, a plaster deer head mount and metal geese wall sculpture. A large non-representational abstract, which Myron sourced from Haverty’s, could well-represent time spent at the seashore and is placed above a blue velvet sofa from World Market. Texture is essential in Myron’s selections for the great room. A rustic table with a Kentucky bluestone top rests on a faux sheepskin rug. Faux fur lumbar pillows carry the softness to a sky blue, Art Deco velvet barrel swivel chair with shiny nailhead trim, one of Jolly’s musts for the space to facilitate ease of conversation. The open living room/kitchen space is a distinct blending of the masculine and feminine. Says Myron matter of factly, “It can’t just be one or the other.” Case in point, an original cotton boll painting by Anya Lincoln placed in the bathroom brings a sense of the natural world while artfully adding softness. Drapery was intentionally foregone as the views of the lake needed to be unobscured. Vellum honeycomb window shades minimize any heat gain during the summer, yet let the sun in. The end result? “We love it,” says Tim. “Myron picked out some great furniture and stayed within our budget.” “With a few splurges,” interjects Myron with a laugh. Tim, whose profession is to design perfectly functioning buildings for clients, like the new three-story stadium Press Box for his alma mater, Louisiana Tech University, was quick to credit Space: Interiors and Myron for his “very tasteful and creative ideas” for his guest house interiors. “We’ve watched Myron grow his business, and it should grow because of his talent. Myron, James and Space: Interiors have a lot to offer this area.”
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Derma MediQ and Spa Nouvelle Holiday Open House Set for Tuesday, November 8th
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ERMA MEDIQ/SPA NOUVELLE has grown to be a thriving medispa and day spa. The staff at Spa Nouvelle has created a serene and peaceful setting with all the luxuries and amenities of a full service day spa with the benefit of Dr. Sowma-Fakhre a few steps away. Spa Nouvelle is staffed with two licensed aestheticians: Wendy Newsom and Drew Farr, three licensed massage therapists: Ana Hale (Lic. # 1423), Jeannette Barron (Lic. # 0773) and Mary Beth Dickerson (Lic. # 4641) and one licensed nail technician: Kelly Griffin. The staff at Derma MediQ creates a very relaxed and serene environment and Dr. Sowma-Fakhre offers free initial consultations to all her clients. Dr. SowmaFakhre is Board Certified in Aesthetic Medicine by the AAAM. She takes time with each client and listens as the client describes their desired result. Dr. SowmaFakhre is passionate about creating natural results in her patients. She takes pride in the fact that everyone “sees” that you look good, but no one can “tell” what has been done. Derma MediQ offers many noninvasive aesthetic procedures, such as Botox, Juvéderm, Artefill, Radiesse, Obagi Blue Peel and Photofacials. These are just a few of the services Dr. Sowma-Fakhre offers at Derma MediQ. For full list of services visit their website at dermamediq. com. The full staff at Spa Nouvelle can work with all types of groups from a threeperson birthday party to a six person bridal party with ease. The most popular service 72 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
Spa Nouvelle offers is the spa day escape. This is an all inclusive spa package! The service begins with the client been escorted to her private serenity room and provided a luxurious robe. Ana, Jeannette or Mary Beth will prepare their massage room for an hour of pure relaxation. Once the client has experienced the talented hands of one of the massage therapist, the client is then escorted only a few steps down the hall to either Drew or Wendy’s peaceful and cozy aesthetician room. The essential facial is just the beginning. Drew or Wendy will also give the client a full consultation and recommend any additional services or recommend a skin care regimen by SkinCeuticals. Once the client is relaxed and glowing, she will be served a light lunch in our private serenity room. After lunch Kelly will whisk her away to a bubbly pedicure soak. The spa pedicure is Kelly’s most popular service with the nourishing masque, nail and cuticle care, ending with perfectly polished and buffed nails. The spa day escape continues to be the number one gift certificate sold at Spa Nouvelle. Spa Nouvelle and Derma MediQ carry the full line of SkinCeuticals and Obagi Products. To maintain and improve skin health, an effective skincare regimen must contain three fundamental elements: Prevention, Protection and Correction. Our lines of medical skincare products prevent future damage, protect healthy skin and correct existing damage. Medical grade skincare products have scientific proof that the product ingredients at the correct
concentration benefit the skin. Over the counter, department store brands sit on top of the skin, and although they may feel nice on the skin, they are not able to stop the damage found deep in the skin or prevent future damage. The staff at Derma MediQ and Spa Nouvelle are excited about the annual Holiday Open House on Tuesday, November 8th. Open House Festivities will begin at 4:00 and continue until 8:00 pm. The spa will be ready for the holiday season with beautiful winter wonderland decorations and the smell of pine, cypress, orange and nutmeg wafting in from the DoTerra diffuser. During the spectacular event both Spa Nouvelle and Derma MediQ will offer special pricing and gifts with purchase throughout the evening. The women of the spa are excited to welcome Melanie of SkinCeuticals, as well as representatives from Allergan and Suneva. Melanie will be present to answer all your skincare questions. The annual Holiday Open House is an event both the staff and clients look forward to each year. Everyone who attends will be entered into a drawing, which will be drawn every hour. Prizes will include Botox, Photofacials, hair removal, massages and various other products and services Derma MediQ and Spa Nouvelle are open six days a week, Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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BayouTrends
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We’re green with envy over these delightful items from our area boutiques and retailers. This holiday season we are making our list and checking it twice – and at the top of the list is anything “lush meadow” – one of this season’s most popular Pantone colors.
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1. CROSWELL’S BOUTIQUE 139 2. DUPONT JEWELERS 3. BEEHIVE 4. SLEEPY HOLLOW FURNITURE 5. THE CHILDREN’S SHOPPE 6. HAIK HUMBLE 7.THE FLEURTY GINGER BOUTIQUE 8. MATERIAL THINGS 9. HOLLIS & COMPANY JEWELERS 10. FABULOUS FABRICS 11. HERRINGSTONE’S 12. TOWNSEND HOUSE GIFTS 13. PEARCE PHARMACY 14. SERENDIPITY 15. FIESTA NUTRITION 16. PAUL MICHAEL COMPANY 74 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
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Black and White Ball Chaired by Jordan Haedicke and Jennifer Lord, the annual Black and White Ball was held on September 24 at Bayou DeSiard Country Club. From live music to decadent cuisine and fabulous silent auction packages and raffle items, there was no shortage of entertainment! Gorgeous art from local artists was auctioned for the cause. In addition to the silent auction, attendees were able to pick from Mystery Boxes that contained prizes from area businesses. Guests dressed in their finest to support The Children’s Advocacy Center while dancing the night away to the tunes of Rockin’ Dopsie. A great time was had by all.
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Emily and Ben Thompson Phil Trahan and Karminder Dhaliwal D elia and Mary Simpson M ary Kathryn Barham, Kay Barham, Anna Barham Saterfiel and Jared Saterfield 5M yeshia White and Jessica Merrells 6 Sarah Johnson and Jason Davis 7 J P and Deepa Patel 8 Chad and Kelley Francowicz 9 Stuart Scalia and Diane Miletello 10 V alerie and Michael Chaney 11 Chamie Thornton and Lee McGuire 12 Sylvia Justus and Veronica Knight 13 Ana Burjaili and Vanelis Rivera 14 Reannon and Nils Borquist 15 D eidra and Jeremy Adair 16 Brad McGilton and Will Copeland 17 Alpa Patel and Simran Emaus
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6th Annual Wiggin’ Out Gala The 6th Anniversary Wiggin’ Out Gala was held on September 9 at the Davison Athletics Complex at Louisiana Tech University. MSG and the Kayfabe provided music from the 80s and 90s, as well as current pop culture hits. Evan Derveloy of Crossfit Ruston shared his uplifting and at times heartwrenching testimony. He told his story of the impact Wiggin’ Out made in his life during his cancer battle and provided an honest and open account of his journey. Wiggin’ Out’s purpose is to raise money in order to provide a philanthropic benefit to women, men and children in North Louisiana that are battling cancer.
1 Jackie White and Teena Doxey 2 Pam Jones and Robin Welch 3K athy Guice and Kerri Hull 4G ail Lindsey, Connie Davis and Shannon Tatum 5A manda Thompson, Victoria Lindsey and Charissa Rachal 6 Ruby Richie and Mandy Miller 7 Jeff and Jill Ellis 8 Morgan Garrison and Christy Duncan 9 Rhonda Roberts, Angel Johnson and Freida Parker 10 Don and Anita O’Toole 11 K im Kavanaugh and Sandy Goss 12 Alison Creel and Kristen Zulli 13 Lisa Lowery and Alice Byrnes 14 M andy Miller, DeShae Pardon, Jessica George, Elisha James, CHAMP, Tami Davis, Vicki Caskey, Jennifer Holtz, Elizabeth Turnley, Marisol O’Neal and David Pillen 15 Dev Altic and Julie Smith 16 Vicki Caskey, Gwen Barron and Marisol O’Neal
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Race for the Cure
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On Saturday, September 17, Forsythe Park was filled with runners and walkers outfitted in their favorite pink gear to show support and participate in the Northeast Louisiana Susuan G. Komen Race for the Cure. Team members and individuals came out in full force wearing everything from tutus to pink wigs to honor and remember those who are fighting or have beat breast cancer. After the race, participants were able to visit sponor tents, display booths and team tables while awards and trophies were presented to racers. The Northeast Louisiana Affiliate of Susuan G Komen are able, through the help of rundraising events like the race, to better serve those in need and provide more effective education, screening and support services.
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Tabitha Jones and Zeborah Elliott Tabitha Hendon, Montgomeryi Hendon and Dara Miller S honta Mock, Neishia Byrd and Katrina Foy Race for the Cure Committee Members T yesha Williams, Mary January, Tapreda Ross and Shantel Landers 6 Darren Thomas, Ronald McDonald and Brett Grigson 7 Whitney Smith, Anita Roundy and Cathy Hilburn 8 Ashley and Bob Wilson 9 Team “We Love Lisa” 10 R achal Russell, Marsha Kirby, Laura Elliott and Tammy Higginbotham 11 V irginia Lockhart Pitts and Tyesha Williams 12 Brooke Nyiri, Whitney Hutto and T.J. Scarborough 13 Brenda Newman, Addie Clampit and Misty Kirkland 14 J osh Taylor, Aly Taylor, Kitty Head, Emily Head and Terry Taylor 15 E ricka and Monique McClanahan, Dawn Platt, Luke Nolan and Harrison Lilly 16 Stephanie Conant and Michelle Gardner
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pARTy 318 Like most things at the Masur Museum, there was an event that was free to the public! Held on Thursday, September 22, pARTy 318 featured libations and hobnobbing for patrons. Presented by Marsala Beverage, the event included an open bar, door prizes and music. Partygoers were able to enjoy dishes from local food trucks including Caster & Chicory, Kitchen Masala and Wayne VS The Winnebago. Local artists and businesses like Julie Crews, Alyssa Guidry Posey, Printed Ink and Callie White were selling their wares that included fashionable t-shirts, ceramics, landscapes, block prints, drawings and embroidery. There was also a crowdsourced work of art by the audience and local artist, Ben Bennett. Guests were entertained by musicians Jesse Grinter and Adam Ryland
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Julie and Caylan Dowden J essica Lawson and Chris Gordy B renathia Tenner and Joel Hadnot J en Brister, Amanda Norris and Victoria Smith M irranda Ainsworth, John Bass, Jena Bass and Jessica Lawson 6 Candace Knox, Carmen Parks and Talitha Elliott 7 Richardra Winder, Erin Davenport and Lakeysha Bullock 8 Cheyenne and Melissa Reffel and Leah Reitzell 9G aeb Cardinale, Brad Arender and Michael Jordan 10 B en Hickey, Frank Hamrick and Brooke Foy 11 Jed and Laura Jennings 12 Dwayne Hammer Jr. and James Gardner 13 David Evans and Joel Roane 14 Claire Carrington, Val Kahler and Jen Stafford 15 Kelli McEnery, and Chris and Jaime Esswein 16 Eden Fife, Jade Wheeler and Clair Calhoun 17 Josh Hires and Hannah VanderKuy
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CREATING A LEGACY
OF SERVICE AND LOVE
Caleb Seney, Executive Director of MedCamps, has always had a desire to serve. His work at MedCamps is just scratching the surface of things he plans to do and his vision of being able to make an impact in families’ lives. ARTICLE BY MARÉ BRENNAN & PHOTOS BY MARTIN G MEYERS 84 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
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C
aleb Seney is no stranger to helping others in a life of service that began as a young man growing up in Springhill, LA. Seney says, “Mom and Dad were great examples of serving others. They were always including people on the fringes, who might have been down on their luck, inviting them to share Thanksgiving and holidays with us. My mom is still that way, always helping others.” Seney was not alone, as one of five children (3 sisters and 1 brother) growing up in a house with 4 bedrooms with 1 bath, life in Springhill was not unlike life at Camp Alabama, where Seney is now the Executive Director for MedCamps of Louisiana. Seney, a husband and father of two girls, says his gift of relating well to children with special needs is his way of serving God. “Life transformation doesn’t happen from a pulpit, it happens in the trenches,” he says, “I hope that I am creating a legacy of service and love. My mission is to love God and love others.” Founded by Dr. Michael F. Zambie in 1987, MedCamps of Louisiana began as a one week camp for 13 children with severe asthma and allergies on the campus of Northeast Louisiana University. The program was initially developed as part of the YMCA of Northeast Louisiana and was known as YMCA MedCamps. The YMCA gave MedCamps an instant funding and administrative infrastructure. In 1988, a partnership with the Presbytery of the Pines was formed, and the MedCamps program had a permanent home in which to operate at Camp Alabama, located 5 miles north of the I-20 corridor, between Monroe and Ruston, in Sibley, Louisiana. Today, MedCamps is a United Way partnering agency and includes ten one-week summer camps for children with spina bifida and orthopedic conditions, cerebral palsy, asthma, sickle cell anemia, autism, epilepsy, visual impairment, hearing impairment, speech impairment and those developmentally disabled. All campers attend MedCamps free of charge. At age 16, Caleb began volunteering at MedCamps when his older brother, Tony, was a camp director and another camp counselor had to drop out unexpectedly. “I remember standing on the dock and thinking I could do this,” Caleb says of his first summer with campers. Caleb worked at the camp for the next
five summers as a counselor and eventually became a Camp Director. Throughout college, Caleb spent his summers at MedCamps and during the school year worked as a Personal Care Attendant at Care Solutions, Inc., where he primarily served a young man living with autism. With a degree in business administration and management from University of Louisiana at Monroe in 1999, Caleb moved to Shreveport to pursue a career at a company owned by his aunt and uncle. It didn’t take him long to find ways to volunteer, spending his free time at Shriner’s Hospital for Children and helping people living with disabilities at Holy Angel’s Home. When Caleb returned to the Monroe area in 2002, he reached out to Mike Zambie and found himself back volunteering for the organization’s board of directors. In May 2003, Caleb accepted the position of Executive Director at MedCamps of Louisiana, Inc. Next summer will be Caleb’s 20th year spent with MedCamps and the 30th anniversary of the camp’s existence. But the more things stay the same, the more they change. “Things are changing,” smiles Caleb from behind his thick beard. “The Presbytery of the Pines has asked us to be the operations partner at Camp Alabama which will allow us to expand our programming.” Camp Alabama’s facilities will be available to rent for corporate retreats, family reunions, church workshops and more. Caleb’s vision for MedCamps is to see the number of summer campers grow from 300 to more than 500, and potentially thousands of kids during the off-season. Another goal is to expand the MedCamps brand to be statewide in scope, with an additional facility to serve the I-10 corridor. What drives Seney forward as Executive Director? “As a part of MedCamps, I’ve been able to watch kids grow up. Some of my former campers send their own kids to camp. One of my former campers, who has spina bifida, has a professional job now and sponsors a kid every year to come to camp. Unfortunately, many of our campers have passed away. This year alone, we had two campers pass away. It reminds you of the impact you have, this finite opportunity. For some children, their time here is limited,” says Caleb. Serving as the leader of a summer camp for children with disabilities and lifethreatening illnesses would take a lesser
“If anyone asks why I
do what I do, it’s cause I’m called to love God and serve others. – Caleb Seney
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person to their knees. What would be hard for some is just Caleb Seney “finding his groove in this world.” That’s what keeps him pressing forward to find more ways to help these children and their parents make the most of every opportunity. “We’ve just scratched the surface of what we can do for these kids,” says the ebullient Executive Director, who has been traveling to other facilities to see what they can replicate at Camp Alabama, like an elevated ropes course and zipline designed for children with disabilities. A large part of what Seney does as Executive Director is to build relationships with groups like the Twin Cities Classic Chevy Club, which underwrites a whole session of MedCamps with a $20,000-$25,000 donation every year. Policemen and firemen who love to step into the ring at the Battle of the Badges, support MedCamps with a donation as well. It is groups like these, says Caleb, that do what they love to raise money and generously provide kids with disabilities or illnesses with an unforgettable camp experience. Louisiana Tech Architecture has partnered
with MedCamps to design and build an outdoor pavilion and a handicap accessible dock with a canoe launch, which allows for the safe loading of campers into and out of canoes. In addition, the Architecture school designed an apparatus to help campers with limited abilities draw back a bow, aim and shoot arrows at targets. Recently, LA Tech Architecture designed a bridge that connects one side of the lake to the other. MedCamps raised more than two-thirds of the $75,000 to build the bridge at their most recent fundraiser, the MedCamps Auction and Funshoot held at Wild Wings in Downsville. The reward of a life spent with MedCamps for twenty years for Seney is seeing kids overcome their own personal fears. “To get on a horse back, to stay away from their mom and dad for five whole nights. These are medically fragile kids who don’t sleep away from home. They are never without their mom or dad. And these parents need a mental health break from parenting these medically fragile kids and to know that their child is safe, secure and having fun with kids just like them,” explains Caleb. “Our campers are iconoclasts,” says Caleb of his little heroes. “They crush my ego and humble me in ways I cannot express. They possess a true grit, facing things on a daily basis. They face pain, insurmountable pain, that I can’t possibly imagine. During the summer, I don’t complain about the petty things that tend to creep back into my vocabulary around January.” WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 87
One of the great products of MedCamps is that campers, like those who attend Sickle Cell Camp, are given opportunities to ask questions of medical professionals who are there to help them learn ways to manage their disease and how not to pass the trait on to future kids. Natural boundaries fall when campers are surrounded by people their own age who are going through the same thing as them. Explains Seney, “It’s so great when an older camper can be a role model for younger campers and their parents. We have a 17 year old spina bifida camper who is going to college in a modified vehicle. He is showing our younger campers and their parents how to navigate the ropes, what is possible.” But it’s not just the campers who benefit from MedCamps, according to Seney. Being a volunteer can shape careers. As a caregiver for a whole week, these kids can mold you in a way that you want to contribute back for them, he says. Several of MedCamps’ volunteers and counselors have gone on to become physicians and nurses, as well as physical and occupational therapists. Says Caleb, “MedCamps is a hidden gem, something to be celebrated.” As he says, “It takes many hands to do what we do.” Now is a great time to get involved and build your relationship with Seney and MedCamps. Caleb Seney lives in Ruston, Louisiana with his wife Adrian and daughters Audrey and Abby. He is an active member of The Bridge Community Church and The Sunrise Kiwanis Club of Ruston.
Camp Wish List: If you would like to contribute equipment to MedCamps, please consider donating these: Paintballs, archery arrows, foam sheets, foam stickers, Pinewood Derby Car Kits-roughly 30 packages, friendship bracelet beads and string, costumes (for skits and other stuff), gift cards (Wal-Mart, Target, Lowe’s), current karaoke cds, duct tape, paper towels, toilet paper, cleaning supplies, first aid kits, light bulbs, mosquito spray, wasp and hornet spray, 55 gallon trash bags and Sharpie markers.
“Adopt-A-Camper”
Sponsor a portion of a camper’s camp experience or sponsor an entire camper scholarship. Give the gift of camp by pledging to MedCamps’ “Adopt-A-Camper” program! • Tier 1 level Adopt-a-Camper: $250 • Tier 2 level Adopt-a-Camper: $500 • Full Camper Scholarship: $1000 For more information, call the MedCamps office at 318-3298405 or toll free at 877-282-0802.
Group Sponsorships
For large groups wanting to get connected at MedCamps, meal sponsorships are a great way to do so! The following meal sponsorships are available for large groups: Sunday Night: “Chicken Mania” – Catered- Sponsors/ Volunteers serve. Monday Night: “Italian” PLUS “Sundaes on Mondays” – Catered –Sponsors/Volunteers serve. Tuesday Night: “Fish Fry” - Sponsors/Volunteers will cook and serve Wednesday Night: “Pizza Pie Night”- Catered - Sponsors/ Volunteers serve. Thursday Night: “Grilling and Chillin” -Sponsors/Volunteers cook and serve. Each Sponsorship is $300. You can sponsor the food, and MedCamps will sponsor the fun!
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Holidays in CedarTown
Celebrating 27 Years as North Louisiana’s Premier Holiday Shopping Market!
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E HOPE YOU WILL JOIN US NOVEMBER 10TH through 12th for Holidays in CedarTown! For the 27th consecutive year the Ruston Civic Center will be a holiday one stop shopping destination for area residents. Holidays in Cedartown, a project of the Cedar Creek School Parent Club, will once again provide North Louisiana with an amazing holiday marketplace that will allow you to jump start your holiday shopping. Our three day market kicks off on Thursday, November 10th from 10:00 a.m. till noon with exclusive shopping and the Holiday Brunch Blitz, sponsored by Origin Bank, Hood Petroleum and LPI. Guests will enjoy a variety of delicious brunch treats provided by area chefs and restaurants that include Campatori Catering featuring Chef John Shirley, Crumbs Catering featuring Chefs Jodie Morphew and Olivia Stinson, Devine Wine & Spirits, La Bamba Mexican Restaurant, Kacee’s Sugar and Spice featuring Morgan Garrison, Newk’s Eatery, Parish Press and Ponchatoulas. In addition to sampling some of our area’s best brunch food, you will also be entertained by cooking demonstrations and music provided by John Farmer. With our unique camera and projection system you will feel like you are right in the kitchen as chefs create some of their favorite holiday dishes. Each brunch ticket will be placed in a drawing for some amazing door prizes provided by our vendors. Tickets are $15 for the Brunch Blitz and are being scooped up like those hard-to-find snowflakes in the South! Entering the Ruston Civic Center, you will find a festive holiday marketplace decorated by the Lauren Roebuck Design Team. Over fifty booths will be overflowing with holiday gifts for every person on your shopping list. We are pleased to provide a unique shopping experience that includes vendors from across the south: All of us Soups and Dips, Baldwin Jewelers, Believe Tees, Bullet Designs, Callie’s Corner, Cinnamon Roasted Nuts and Fudge, Cougar Gear, Cricket’s Grace Boutique, Dean of Flowers, Fluer de Lou Creations, Harp Strings, KoKoon, Laura Glen Lawson, Lauren Roebuck Designs, Layla Bel Boutique, Matilda Jane, Mother Hen, Mr. P’s Tees, Nanette’s Notes, Oh So Chic, Origami Owl, Park Avenue Antiques, Patton’s, Patton’s Downtown, Pearlie Sue and Company, Puttin On the Glitz, Rodeo Boutique, Ruston Florist, Scentsy Fragrance, Senegence, Simply Chic Boutique, Sue Paperie/Paperglaze, Townsend House Gifts and
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Usborne Books and More. Lunch will be available for shoppers to purchase on Thursday from Crumbs Catering, Friday from Iron Cactus, and Saturday from Newk’s Eatery. So, you can enjoy the holiday music and shop to your heart’s content. Holidays after Hours is Thursday, November 10th 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Holiday music will highlight the evening of shopping and complimentary appetizers will be provided by area restaurants and caterers that include Ben Christmas Catering, Iron Cactus, The Keg Package & Cork Room, Portico, Teriyaki Grill, Roma Italian Bistro and Social Bites. Tickets are $10 and will be available for purchase in advance with a limited number available at the door. Of course, you will want to bring your little ones out Saturday morning for Jingles and Jammies at 10:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. featuring breakfast - compliments of Daylight Donuts, story time and photos with Santa. Each child will also receive The Night Before Christmas activity book. Admission for Jingles and Jammies is $5 and may be purchased in advance with a limited number available at the door. North Central Louisiana Arts Council will once again be on hand Saturday afternoon from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. to create an adorable Christmas craft with your children. Holiday treats will be provided by DQ Grill & Chill and the House of Flowers. Admission for this fun filled afternoon is $5 and may be purchased in advance or at the door. As is the tradition at Holidays in CedarTown, we are once again inviting all area educators to join us for complimentary admission Saturday. Simply present your employee ID at the ticket booth when you arrive. This is just our way of saying thank you for the wonderful job you do educating our children! In addition, this year in recognition of LA TECH Homecoming on November 12th, all Tech fans wearing their Loyal Blue are invited to shop free on Saturday until game time! Visit Holidays in CedarTown and it may just be your lucky day! Make sure you purchase a ticket for the IPad Pro Raffle; tickets are $5 each or three for $10. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the three day event. Who wouldn’t be delighted to find this surprise under the tree! Please refer to the Holidays in CedarTown ad on the opposite page for specific event dates and times.
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Rebel Runway “Fashion Took Flight” if you were fortunate enough to be sitting in the audience at Rebel Runway 2016 on September 20th, hosted and presented by the West Monroe High School Cheerleader Booster Club. The West Monroe Convention Center was packed with an eager audience as the models sported ensembles from local boutiques with everything from casual weekend apparel to prom couture –there was something for everyone! Sponsors included United Home Care, Eleven 26 Boutique, Teresa’s Flooring and Decorating, Gastroenterology Clinic, Tom Sanders Building Mart, Ray’s Tire Pros, Transmission Specialist, Floorworks, Morehouse Community Medical WM Campus, Trinity Cheer Athletics, Chef Taxi, Heather Finley FNP/John G. Ford Insurance, Above and Beyond Designs, Home Improvement Outlet, Reflections and Associated Business Printing.
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Darren Knight Comedy Show The Monroe Civic Center has never see anyone quite like Darren Knight, aka “Southern Mama.” On October 19th, Knight generously offered to bring his comedy act to Northeast Louisiana with proceeds from the event benefitting the local YMCA and an additional portion going to the YMCA of Greater Baton Rouge to assist in the Flood Relief efforts in South Louisiana. The “Southern Mama” was also joined on stage by Rocky Dale Davis, who was hand-picked for Kevin Hart’s new stand-up show “Hart of the City.” Thanks to supporters of this event, the Y will be able to continue its many outreach programs in our community.
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Fall Ruston Maker’s Fair On October 8th, revelers gathered at the Fall 2016 Ruston Makers Fair at the Historic Fire Station. This free, family event featured over 70 artists, makers and crafters and exhibited everything from small succulents to original screenprinted t-shirts, handmade ornaments, original paintings and much more. Food trucks like Tacos the Guero and Tribe’s Barbecue were on hand, and guests were entertained by local musicians, including Bethany Raybourn. Thanks to supporters like the Ruston-Lincoln CVB, Buie Photography, The Selfie Stop and Fine Line Supply Co., this local event in downtown Ruston was a huge success.
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Meredith’s Musings Riding the Middle |
F
By Meredith McKinnie
riday morning was not yet beaming with the July heat at 5:45 a.m. The streets were oddly silent yet in the way that suggests oncoming chaos. I drove myself to surgery, Boyfriend calmly riding beside me. We didn’t have much to say. We both just wanted it to be over. When the doctor had confirmed four days earlier that the fetus was not viable, I felt a punch in my gut, though I’d long suspected the news. Boyfriend being there to hear it didn’t help as I’d assumed. He consoled me that afternoon in his calm, quiet way, knowing when words are a useless distraction. I prefer quiet to process. The doctor suggested a D & C. I agreed readily, just wanting the not baby out of me. It felt a violation to let it fester, as if I could erase the disappointment I felt in one twenty-minute procedure. I cried getting the news. I cried walking into my mother’s kitchen to deliver the news. I saw the hope on her face through the glass door. She was expecting an ultra-sound pic, a recount of hearing our baby’s heartbeat, but she wouldn’t get it. As she walked toward me, I could only shake my head no. Untelling her was too difficult. As my mother hugged me and promised that another baby would come, I heard the voices of the living room TV disappearing. My dad was listening, as he often does when he knows not to intrude. Boyfriend and I checked in for surgery ten minutes early, and we sat in silence watching doctors and nurses arrive. They see women like me every day. Does it make them sad? I knew after hundreds of procedures, probably not. My case was no different than the other three women sitting in the waiting room. One girl looked to be my age with pajama pants and one of those overly large graphic T shirts one finds on the sale rack at Walmart. She had a friend with her and a toddler, a baby that
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hadn’t ended in a procedure. I smiled as he wobbled around, no idea where he was, not a care in the world. Another woman in the corner looked more refined, a husband beside her, cradling her tired, tear-stained head in the crook of his arm. He looked as tired as she was, emotionally exhausted, though trying his best not to show it. I thumbed through a local magazine as we waited. I read my own article in a past month’s issue. They took the refined woman back before me, allowing her husband to accompany her. I was next, though Boyfriend was not shown the same courtesy. I wondered why, but was glad I was going alone. The gurneys were separated by cotton curtains on a bar, much like a dressing room. I was given a gown and a bag for my clothes. The aide came in and helped me into the awkward, tight surgery stockings that made me look tanner than I was. It made me smile, a little. And then I lay back and waited. I heard murmured voices to my left and the voice of an elderly woman complaining to my right. Whatever the older woman was having done would take 45 minutes, the aide told her. And then she left to let the woman undress. I heard the woman talking to herself about the difficulty of her pants button, the waywardness of her shirt sleeve. I got lost in her complaints of a task for me that only takes seconds. She didn’t want to be here either. And then I noticed the anesthesiologist. He was handsome, and with a clipboard entered the curtained off section to my left, the section of the murmured voices. I had nothing to do but listen. The older woman to my right had gone silent in her frustration of undressing. As the anesthesiologist began asking questions, I realized the murmured voices belonged to the couple from the waiting room, the couple with the weight of the world on their faces. He asked the woman’s name.
She answered. He asked her procedure. It was the same as mine, a D & C, the removal of an unviable or unformed fetus. I sighed and felt comforted by the shared experience. And then he asked her ever so quietly if this was her first one. It wasn’t. In an even more muffled voice, she explained it was her fourth. Her first failed pregnancy at 32, and then again at 34, yet again at 38, and now finally another at 42. She had been through this process three times before, and she had had no successful pregnancies. As he exited her room, I sat in silence, knowing something I shouldn’t, and fighting the urge to hug her. In the silence, slow tears streamed down the corners of my face, wetting the awkward hospital gown, a silent response to a fate too unfair to imagine, a fate bestowed on the refined woman I didn’t even know. In the midst of my tears, a ruckus was erupting with the old woman to my right. The aide had told her several minutes before to remove everything except her panties. So when the aide returned and insisted she remove those panties, the old woman scoffed. “But you said I could leave them on. You lied.” The woman was getting more frustrated as the aide said, “That’s only if they’re cotton. You can’t wear lace panties in there.” I had to cover my mouth to keep from choking with laughter. The idea of the woman insisting on retaining her lace panties for surgery was too much. They debated back and forth, but the aide won, though the old lady put up a good fight. I silently commended her efforts. I needed that moment. Before long they were rolling me back, covering my mouth with the contraption, telling me to count backward. I awoke 30 minutes later with little pain and a lot of blood. It was to be expected, they said. As we rode home hours later, I recounted the story to Boyfriend. We felt together for the woman with the fate worse than ours and laughed about the elderly woman and her lace panties. That is life, the colossal disappointment and heartbreak of someone to our left, and the frustration at trivial follies for someone to our right. That day I felt lucky to be riding the middle.
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Dentistry from the Heart at Arrow Dental Arrow Dental Center hosted its 4th annual Dentistry from the Heart event on Friday, October 14. This free event was open to patients that were 18 years and older who cannot get dental care elsewhere. Over 110 patients were seen and received exams, teeth cleanings and extractions. Dr. Johnston and his staff look forward to serving the community through this outreach each year. Special thanks to the volunteers who make this event possible.
On the BayouScene 1 Dr. Tuft and Staff 2D r. Rutz and Staff 3A my Stewart, Billie Gregg, Tanya White, Jennifer Smith, Tammy Esswein, Amanda Strange and Jennifer Williams 4D r. Tuft, Dr. Johnston, Dr. Williams and Dr. Rutz 5 T anya White, Britney Pardon, Terrie Robinson and Dana Ford 6 J ennifer Smith, Tanya White and Jana McQuillin
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St. Francis Medical Center Myths About Diabetes
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HERE ARE MANY MYTHS ABOUT DIABETES THAT make it difficult for people to believe some of the hard facts – such as diabetes is a serious and potentially deadly disease.
MYTH: Diabetes is not that serious of a disease. FACT: Diabetes causes more deaths a year than breast cancer and AIDS combined. Having diabetes nearly doubles your chance of having a heart attack. The good news is that good diabetes control can reduce your risks for diabetes complications.
MYTH: If you are overweight or obese, you will eventually develop type 2 diabetes. FACT: Being overweight is a risk factor for developing this disease, but other risk factors such as family history, ethnicity and age also play a role. Unfortunately, too many people disregard the other risk factors for diabetes and think that weight is the only risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Most overweight people never develop type 2 diabetes, and many people with type 2 diabetes are at a normal weight or only moderately overweight. MYTH: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes. FACT: The answer is not so simple. Type 1 diabetes is caused by genetics and unknown factors that trigger the onset of the disease; type 2 diabetes is caused by genetics and lifestyle factors. Being overweight does increase your risk for developing type 2 diabetes, and a diet high in calories from any source contributes to weight gain. Research has shown that drinking sugary drinks is linked to type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetes Association recommends that people should avoid intake of sugar-sweetened beverages to help prevent diabetes. Sugar-sweetened beverages include beverages like soda, energy drinks, sweet tea and other sugary drinks. MYTH: People with diabetes should eat special diabetic foods. FACT:A healthy meal plan for people with diabetes is generally the same as a healthy diet for anyone – low in saturated and trans fat, moderate in salt and sugar, with meals based on lean protein, nonstarchy vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and fruit. Diabetic and “dietetic” foods generally offer no special benefit. Most of them still raise blood glucose levels, are usually more expensive and can also have a laxative effect if they contain sugar alcohols. MYTH: You can catch diabetes from someone else. FACT: No. Although we don’t know exactly why some people develop diabetes, we know diabetes is not contagious. It can’t be caught like a cold or flu. There seems to be some genetic link in diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle factors also play a part. MYTH: People with diabetes are more likely to get colds and other illnesses. FACT: You are no more likely to get a cold or another illness if you have diabetes. However, people with diabetes are advised to get flu shots. This is because any illness can make diabetes more difficult to control, and people with diabetes who do get the flu are more likely than others to go on to develop serious complications. Source: American Diabetes Association WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 101
St. Frederick Begins New Tradition
First Hall of Fame Class Recognized at Homecoming 2016
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T. FREDERICK CELEBRATED HOMECOMING September 23rd after a week of festivities. The Warrior football team won their football game 31 to 6 to cap off the night. The Homecoming Court was presented at halftime and included: • Freshman maid, Clesi Elizabeth Dickey, daughter of Rachel Genusa Dickey and Charles Douglas “Doug” Dickey, Sr. • Freshman Maid, Mallory Wilds Myers, daughter of Elizabeth and John Myers. • Sophomore Maid, Mary Auburn Morgan, daughter of Shawn and Cobb Morgan. • Sophomore Maid, Lauren Baylee Petrus, daughter of Casey and Preston Petrus. • Junior Maid, Caroline Adele Brown, daughter of Amanda and Bob Brown. • Junior Maid Mary Memory “Mem” Smelser, daughter of Laura Smelser and Cole Smelser. • Football Sweetheart, Rachel Ann Emily Gerhardt. Rachel Ann is the daughter of Rachel Turnbough and the granddaughter of Peggy and Bill Turnbough. • Senior Maid, Kate Labindao Operario, daughter of Renelyn and Dr. Mark Anthony Operario.
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• Senior Maid, Chandler Grace Hill, daughter of Aimee and Chad Hill. • Queen, Brandi Michelle Bell, daughter of Frankie and James Bell, was crowned by 2015 Homecoming Queen Elaine Ezell and Principal Dr. Bob Webber. The 2016 Nancy Fritsche Award recipient, Kay Shipp (1967 St. Fred grad) was recognized for her long-time service, hard work and dedication to the school. The classes of 1976 and 2006, celebrated their reunions and toured the school. Welcome signs greeted them at the Bread Alumni Center Reception and in the special seating in the football stadium. St. Frederick began a new tradition with the establishment of a Hall of Fame. The first Hall of Fame Class was recognized at halftime. The Hall of Fame class included: Coach Dan McClure, Coach Ray Gambino, Beverly Moore Haydel, Mikaela Pennington Loftin and Mark Guerriero. “It was an exciting week of Homecoming events for St. Frederick with great participation by students, teachers, parents, alumni and friends. Alumni were impressed with the many improvements on campus and the STREAM project to build a new science and technology building,” said Principal Dr. Bob Webber.
House of Carpets and Lighting Well Worth the Drive!
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ELLO! ALL OF US AT HOUSE OF Carpets and Lighting in Shreveport are excited to showcase our products to Northeast and North Central Louisiana, and hope you will make the short drive to see us. We promise you will not be disappointed! Remodeling your home? Building a new home? Looking to update a couple of areas in your home? House of Carpets and Lighting has what it takes to make your home look its best. We carry quality flooring, from beautiful hardwood to durable ceramic and porcelain tile, to plush carpet and so much more! We also have a huge selection of backsplash and tumbled stone. House of Carpets and Lighting is the only Shaw Design Center in the area, and we have other top name brands as well. When it comes to lighting, House of Carpets and Lighting combines quality and
selection. We offer a wide range of lighting products that provide the perfect blend of beauty and utility. From beautiful crystal chandeliers, to decorative kitchen and bedroom lighting, to under-counter and LED lighting, you will find the perfect lights for your taste, style and budget! Whether you are looking to update your entire house, or just one room, we’ve got you covered! Let us make your home the gem of your street with the perfect exterior lighting solution to highlight the beauty of your home. From subtle lighting accents to landscape lighting and gas lanterns, House of Carpets and Lighting can help you enhance your home’s exterior to match the level of style and beauty of the interior. Accessories are the “cherry on top,” and you will find plenty of treasures at House of Carpets and Lighting. Artwork, lamps, home accessories, mirrors, accent furniture and
vanities – everything to update your beautiful home. However, what sets apart House of Carpets and Lighting is our customer service. Family-owned and operated, House of Carpets and Lighting’s staff is knowledgeable about all of our products. In addition, our design team can guide you when it comes to selecting the best look for your home. We look forward to serving you! We can’t wait for you to visit our showroom at 4344 Youree Drive. Take the Market Street exit off I-20. Market St. becomes Youree Drive, so you will be here in no time! Open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. House of Carpets and Lighting— Well Worth the Drive!
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Louisiana Purchases Interiors • Unique Finds • Gifts
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T’S THE SEASON OF THANKFULNESS AND AT LOUISIANA
Purchases, we are grateful for our loyal patrons and our community. Each month, we are partnering with a different group to raise awareness. In August, our efforts were devoted to flood victims in South Louisiana. Our community came together and in five days with their help, and with the help of St. Paul’s Men’s Retreat, we were able to deliver 26 pallets of supplies to Baton Rouge. Our mission in September was to bring attention to a cause that is dear to our hearts, suicide awareness. You may have noticed that our storefront was wrapped in a banner with the slogan, “You Matter!” We painted rocks to be distributed as part of the Ouachita Parish Rocks campaign and focused on spreading the message that no matter who you are, or what you’re going through in life — you matter. In November, we are partnering with the John Clarke Perry Foundation. On Sunday, November 29, 2015, this precious 6-monthold left this Earth. Through organ donation, John Clarke was able to help save the lives of two children. The foundation was created to help provide support to families with children in need of lifechanging medical treatments. Louisiana Purchases will by carrying their “Heart of a Tiger” t-shirts in adult and kids sizes in an effort to raise awareness and give back to our community. All proceeds from the sale of the t-shirts will benefit the foundation. We are also truly excited about the wonderful gift items that are arriving daily at Louisiana Purchases. We have something for everyone, including the men on your list. Louisiana Purchases is the only place you can find Mike Benton’s CHALLENGER duck calls. These calls are some of the best made and are perfect for stocking stuffers. We are also taking pre-orders for our beautiful, handmade leather duck straps. The hunter on your list will love these straps, and they can be ordered with initials for that special touch. Looking for a gift for your girl friend, mom or teacher? We have a wide variety of LAFCO gift sets to choose from – candles, hand cream and soaps. These sets are sure to be a hit. Louisiana Purchases also has an assortment of serving ware from alligatorhandled gumbo spoons to stemless wine glasses featuring the HIVE print by Mignon Faget. And if you need some inspiration to get you in the holiday spirit, stop in and pick up our Forest-scented Rosy Rings candle. Louisiana Purchases is located at 1306 North 18th Street in Monroe. We are open Monday - Friday from 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Call us at 318.605.3593 and find us on Facebook @louisianapurchasesmonroe. And don’t forget to SAVE THE DATE for our Holiday Open House on December 1st.
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Weight Loss Surgery What Does It All Mean?
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HE MEDICAL STAFF AT THE LOUISIANA CENTER for Weight Loss Surgery believes strongly in educating you about the challenges inherent to obesity. Health terms can be daunting for anyone, so it is imperative we are equipped with the knowledge necessary to live healthier, happier lives. It is helpful to know your BMI, or Body Mass Index. The BMI calculates the amount of body fat based on an individual’s weight and height. Weight-loss surgery typically is reserved for those who are at least 100 pounds overweight, or who have a BMI of 40 or higher. People with a BMI of 35 and suffer from one or more obesity-related health concerns may also qualify for weight-loss surgery. Weight-loss surgery can transform a person’s life. In addition to feeling better, surgery may improve or resolve conditions caused by obesity, such as high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and reflux disease. The Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery—a partnership between bariatric surgeon Dr. Walter Sartor, P&S Surgical Hospital, and St. Francis Medical Center—offers the Gastric Bypass and the Gastric Sleeve procedures. How are these surgeries different? The gastric bypass creates a small pouch at the top of your stomach and adds a bypass around a segment of your small intestine. This redirects food, bypassing most of your stomach and the first section of your small intestine. Food enters into the section of your small intestine and limits your ability to absorb calories. The gastric sleeve procedure reduces the size of the stomach by 60-85 percent. The larger, rounded part of the stomach is laparoscopically removed, and the remaining stomach assumes the appearance of a sleeve. Unlike gastric bypass, which changes stomach openings, the gastric sleeve leaves the openings intact so digestion can continue as normal. While weight-loss surgery is a catalyst for a better life, healthy habits and behaviors are crucial to long-term success. Our nutritionist is one of our most valuable resources; she will help you achieve proper nutritional status and exercise routines. P&S Surgical Hospital, the home of Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery, is accredited through the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program. In addition, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana recognizes P&S Surgical Hospital as a Blue Distinction® Center+ designation. P&S Surgical Hospital is also a Center of Excellence in Bariatrics by Optum, a subsidiary of United Health Group. For more information on which procedure is right for you, visit www.laweightlossurgery.com or call 1-866-821-LIVE.
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“In this exercise of his physical powers, man shows his freedom… that he has transformed his body to an organ of spirit.” 106 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
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A FIGHTER, A TEACHER, A COACH, AN INSPIRATION – SPARKY MCDUFFIE HAS DEDICATED HIS LIFE TO INSPIRE OTHERS. ARTICLE BY NILS BORQUIST and PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRAD ARENDER WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 107
THE IMAGE OF THE CIRCLE, OF THE RING, PERMEATES
throughout mythologies all over the world, and this has been so for many millennia. This image holds a variety of meanings: order, being bound to principles, metamorphosis, the cycle of life and the bringing together of two people who are missing an aspect of life that only the other can bring to fruition. In the sport of boxing, two individuals meet within a ring in a contest that tests their physical, mental and emotional limits in a display illustrating each symbolic aspect, with the rules constituting order, the adherence to the rules representing being bound to principles, the knockdowns before rising again to one’s feet providing the cycle of life and death and life again, and the winner and loser being forever altered by the outcome as metamorphosis. The fifth meaning, however, may be considered the most important, as the two competitors need each other to attain their pinnacles of mind, spirit and body, the competitive bond necessary in order to heighten their respective senses and fully realize unseen potentials. In order to sufficiently prepare for such a trial, for a duel of this nature, another individual is undoubtedly needed. The mentor, the trainer, emerges as an invaluable guide who teaches the pupil how to approach the adventure, how to build oneself up, how to prepare to face another warrior alone in the ring. In the West Monroe Boxing Club, such a mentor can be found. Circling from the open doors past bins of entangled yards of cloth for wrapping hands, moving beyond the rope jumpers dripping sweat onto thinly cushioned mats, passing stacks of thick, red gloves, and weaving between racked barbells and suspended punching bags, visitors come to the ring that looms within the center of the room. Inside that ring, eyes wide with focus, lightly stepping, right then left, feet slightly pivoting and shoulders bobbing, 108 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
hands wearing padded targets being constantly popped by a steady succession of apprentices, round after round, hour after hour, he tirelessly works. For over four decades, George William McDuffie, known to everyone around him as Sparky, has trained anyone with the desire to learn, hundreds of willing students, in the always delicate and sometimes vicious artistry of boxing, helping them along the way to discover things about themselves they may or may not have known to exist but could not unearth in any case without the right leader. One could believe that Sparky McDuffie was born to train fighters. His father, George “Buck” McDuffie, became a master of coaching gangly, raw youngsters into refined and powerful winners. From his own years as a United States Marine Corps champion in post-World War II years, Buck learned the skills required to be successful in the ring, skills he realized he could convey to dedicated students. One such pupil was his own son, Sparky. In order to effectively teach, though, Buck needed a proper facility. Thus, after moving every so often from one local town to the next, in 1971 Buck created the West Monroe Boxing Club where he would begin to tutor one premiere titleholder after the other. In the early 1970s, Sparky developed into one of the rising stars. While attending Ouachita High School, where after he studied during the days and played football in the brutal heat of the afternoons, Sparky would train with other up and coming fighters under his father’s tutelage in the early twilight hours. It was a routine that forged the younger McDuffie into a workhorse, absorbing his father’s wisdom while also transforming himself into a powerful physical force. During the decade, he fought numerous amateur contests, steadily progressing into a nationally known talent. After graduating from
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EVERYONE WHO KNOWS SPARKY MCDUFFIE OR KNOWS HIS STORY OR HAS EVEN BEEN FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO CROSS PATHS WITH THE MAN QUICKLY REALIZES THAT HE FITS THE DESCRIPTION OF HERO.
Ouachita, Sparky attended Louisiana Tech, playing defensive end and offensive tackle for the football team and eventually earning his degree in physical education. All the while, McDuffie continued boxing, and boxing well, earning the opportunity to fight in several Golden Gloves tournaments. These bouts along with hours of grueling training sessions provided Sparky with irreplaceable insight about what is required from an athlete to succeed, especially in an individual sport like boxing, where no matter how many trainers and sparring partners and weight lifting spotters one has, in the end, he or she is alone to put everything learned to the test. “If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.” So wrote Sun Tzu in The Art of War over twenty-five centuries ago. While he was referring to military skirmishes, the quote can certainly be considered apt in any competitive event. The better we organize, which involves our own mental and emotional preparation, the greater the likelihood of success. For Sparky McDuffie, the years of instruction and application in the ring taught what Sun Tzu discovered so long ago. To become a champion fighter, mental acuity, involving developing patience, calmness and dedication, must be honed. In fact, McDuffie believes that without such powers, a boxer will not succeed regardless of muscular prowess. He has seen several top-tier athletes collapse under the pressure produced within the ring. Those who do not possess or are unwilling to develop iron-like nerves will certainly fail. Part of the training delivered by Buck McDuffie was motivated by this idea, one that in practice consisted of rigorous physical training meant to either produce unwavering fortitude or convince the student to quit altogether. Most fought through the pain, and they came out not only better fighters but better citizens, which, in the end, was the ultimate goal. Undoubtedly, the gym was not going to produce a series of Rocky Marcianos, Muhammad Alis, or Mike Tysons, but helping to produce a series of better young men and women was absolutely achievable. Sparky certainly learned this lesson well, and he was tested through one of life’s difficult trials that has come to afflict much of society. In the early 1980s, after several dozen amateur contests, Sparky became a professional boxer while maintaining the grueling pace he set for himself while still a student in high school and college. Nearing the end of his college days and with his final football game played, McDuffie kept plugging away in the ring at night, and the work paid off. In 1982, McDuffie fought and won his first professional bout. While the trail to the peak of athlet110 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
ic success is often beset with difficult terrain, once on the path, with enough determination and skill, the climber can reach the top. However, sometimes even the strongest person encounters an opponent that can be difficult to overcome. Though he did not know it at the time, Sparky McDuffie would fight his final fight less than a couple of years into his career. It was neither a man nor a beast that would prevent him from moving forward but a monster of a different sort that reared its head. In the fall of 1984, while Sparky was training for another fight, his father, his trainer, complained of pain in his midsection. After tests, the initial diagnosis involved an infected gallbladder, and surgery to remove the organ was scheduled. Unfortunately for the McDuffie clan, though, the belief that the gallbladder was the issue was discovered to be incorrect; instead, terminal liver cancer was found, and Buck was given less than a year to live. Understandably so, this outcome was exceedingly difficult for Sparky, a man in his twenties starting his own family and in the early period of two promising careers. The premise of losing one’s father is never easy, and the sting may be intensified with the foreknowledge that it is to come, that it is cruelly happening, rather than it occurring in a surprising fashion; however, he faced the impending situation with grace, and he made a tough decision about the direction of his life. Replacing time in class learning and time on the gridiron practicing with teaching classes and coaching several sports, Sparky joined the staff of Sterlington High School in 1983, holding his position for 12 years at Sterlington and for 31 years overall in Ouachita Parish Schools. Balancing the life of a promising boxing career with that of a full-time teaching and coaching career was difficult, but McDuffie said that it was worth it. Between juggling the time to complete his work tasks, he was also embarking on a fulfilling family life. Just as this hectic existence was taking off, though, Sparky lost his father, and the West Monroe Boxing Club lost its greatest mentor. Making one of the most difficult resolutions anyone could, Sparky decided to suspend his fighting career to resume the work undertaken by his dad. He quickly discovered that a trainer wears many hats: personal motivator, strength and conditioning coach, psychologist and father figure. With the fortitude that made him a successful athlete, McDuffie leaped headlong into all roles, and his determination made an impact on every potential beginner who strode through the gym doors, no matter race, gender or age. Normally modest about his accomplishments, acknowledging the commendable pursuit his club has made over the years and continues to make today, to break exclusionary societal boundaries may bring the proudest smile to McDuffie’s face, and it is obvious that training
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or involving anyone who wants to be trained or involved brings him great joy. During his tenure at the helm of the WMBC, McDuffie has trained, by his estimate, over 300 and perhaps even close to 400 competitive amateur boxers. Among those who have moved into the professional ranks, a number approximately in the 100 range, there have been several standouts. Richard Savage, from West Monroe, finished his career with 35 victories against only 8 losses, and he fought for and won the International Boxing Council world featherweight title against former Olympic Gold medalist Steve McCrory. Adolpho Washington won 31 bouts, including the IBF cruiserweight world title against former Olympic Gold medalist Torsten May, lost 9, and had two draws, and he was famously never knocked out in the ring. Monroe native Jeff Williams won 14 professional fights as well. Glen Modicue is a former top-20 ranked professional junior middleweight. Savage, Washington, Williams and Modicue are but four of the success stories written by the McDuffie family and the fighters themselves, but by no means are the victories on the canvas the best measure of success for McDuffie and the WMBC. Molding hundreds, even thousands, of men and women of every race, age and background into admirable citizens should be the greatest consideration. If so, recognizing that many former competitors return to the facility to help McDuffie train the next generation of eager boxers, doing so freely and in gratitude for the offerings of their former trainer and knowing all too well what the sport can teach—tenacity, willpower, hard work and the setting and achieving of goals—should demonstrate the positive impact McDuffie and the sport had on their lives. Joseph Campbell said that a hero is one “who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” Employing this simple definition, everyone who knows Sparky McDuffie or knows his story or has even been fortunate enough to cross paths with the man quickly realizes that he fits the description of hero. Beyond his own triumphs, those of college graduate, college athlete and professional boxer, achievements that are enough for many individuals to rest on until they are no more, Sparky decided that his mission in life would be to teach. He decided to give. He gave his time, he gave his energy, he gave his knowledge, and he did it with a smile on his face and the belief that those who gave all they had would be successful, no matter what the scorecard said. He gave and continues to give his life to the young of age and the young at heart, so that they may feel and understand the power of courage, self-discipline, respect and sharing the canvas in order to not only feel personally fulfilled but to help someone else attain his or her own ultimate fulfillment. He gives, so that they may learn to give as well. It is a lesson well understood, well appreciated, and one that is perpetually being given and received, a circle of friendship, a ring of life and of love. 112 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
Vieux Carré Market Your Holiday Gift Basket Headquarters
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T VIEUX CARRÉ MARKET, WE UNDERSTAND THE holidays, in fact, we consider ourselves experts. Whether you are searching for the perfect gift for that special someone or you just want to treat yourself, we can help. We specialize in uniqueness, offering specialty foods, exclusive whiskeys, fresh seafood and much more. We offer the best selection of boutique wines in Northeast Louisiana. No matter what price range, we can find the right wine for you. A wine from Vieux Carré Market will be remembered well after it’s opened. We even offer a special order option for the rarest of bottles. This Thanksgiving, make sure to stop by Vieux Carré for wine that will “wow” your guests. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find what you need, whether you are looking for yourself or for a gift. If you really want to bring a smile to someone’s face, let us help you create a custom gift basket. Our gift baskets are so much fun to create and can work with any budget. Choose any items within the store to create a special, unique gift...truly like no other. Our advice for the perfect gift basket is to start with a great bottle of wine. Beuhler Vineyards Chardonnay is a great choice for white wine. Our pick for a popular red is Schug Cabernet. Pair with one or more of our gourmet and artisanal cheeses (don’t forget crackers!) Next, include some must-haves such as one of our unique jellies, grape leaves and locally made honey. Throw in some sweet snacks, such as chocolate or sugared pecans, and you have a fabulous gift for that special someone. In addition to all the items mentioned, we carry cookbooks, craft beers, coffee, a large selection of scotches and rums and much more. Get creative with your choices, or leave it up to us to put together a selection that will be sure to impress. Each basket is wrapped in a durable burlap bag that the recipient can use over and over. We love creating custom gifts for people during the holiday season or anytime. Come in and eat lunch or dinner, while we help you find the perfect gift. We are truly a one-stop-shop for lunch, gifts and grocery. There’s no better place to be this holiday season than Vieux Carré Market!
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Custom Carpet and Interiors Get Your Home Ready for the Holidays
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USTOM CARPET AND Interiors has been Northeast Louisiana’s flooring source and has been locally owned and operated for over 50 years. Michael Durham took over the store in 2009 and has been serving our community ever since. One of the things that has made Custom Carpet and Interiors the leader in the industry is their commitment to providing excellent customer service. Michael makes sure to communicate with each customer on exactly what they are looking for and what their expectations are. They pride themselves on not finishing the job until the customer is happy and the job is up to their standards. Sheila and John O’Leary, Jr. recently worked with Durham and said this, “Custom Carpets and Interiors is the best when it comes to any hardwood, marble or tile job in Northeast Louisiana. Michael Durham
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takes a very hands-on approach to each and every job, ensuring that the customer is 100% satisfied throughout the process. He always keeps the lines of communication open and always does the right thing, even if it was not something that may have been included in the original scope of work. There are not many business owners who take as much pride in their work as Michael Durham and the team at Custom Carpets do.” Durham and his team recently finished dustless sanding and finishing on the O’Leary’s gorgeous antique pine floors. This process is a clean and safe technique that allows refinished floors to be restored to their natural beauty and shine without the time, cost and mess of traditional restoration. Custom Carpets and Interiors not only can bring hardwoods back to their original glory, they also carry a wide selection of tile, carpet and hardwood floors. They
offer materials and items that you can’t find elsewhere. A current trend is installing ceramic tile that mocks the natural look of wood floors, but have the durability of tile and come in a variety of sizes and lengths. Also, porcelain tile that looks like marble and travertine allow the homeowner to have a more affordable option but without the upkeep. Custom Carpets doesn’t stop at flooring, they also can work with you on backsplashes and showers and offer a range of granite and quartz countertops to choose from. And when it comes to their selection of custom carpets and area rugs, there is no better selection in our area to choose from. Some of the brands that Custom Carpet carries include Stationmaster Carpet, Walker Zanger, Shaw, Porcelanosa, US Floors, Infinity Carpet, Speartek, Naturally Aged Flooring, Armstron, Karndean, Ann Sacks and more. Custom Carpet and Interiors has become one of Northeast Louisiana’s top flooring resources based on their commitment, customer service and selection, and they invite you in to see why they have been serving our community for over 50 years.
Black Friday Shopping Tips
The Fleurty Ginger Boutique Offers Tips for Successful Shopping
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T’S ALMOST TIME FOR BLACK Friday! For many of us, this is one of our favorite times of the year, where we can gather with friends and family and shop all day long. I am a true believer of Black Friday starting on Black Friday and will not be one of those businesses that open on Thanksgiving Day. This is a time for giving thanks and being with family first and foremost. I have compiled a few tips and suggestions for shopping on Black Friday in Monroe/West Monroe: • Create a list of people that you plan to buy presents for, with a budget by each person’s name. • Focus on staying within or less than your budget. • Make a list of your favorite stores, the times that they open and their location. Don’t forget The Fleurty Ginger!
Boutique has two locations in Monroe and West Monroe. • Find a group of friends and/or family and get ready to have some fun! • Look for retailers that offer free gift wrapping or gift packaging to save you time and money. Don’t get yourself wrapped up in the long lines and craziness. Just get out and start shopping! Remember that this is a day of fun, so don’t get stressed out and be sure to say “thank you” to the employees at each of your favorite stores. They are missing out on their shopping and families, for you to have a good time. Your Black Friday shopping should not end without a visit to one of our locations. The Fleurty Ginger Boutique knows how to have a good time and we have great
deals. Don’t forget that we keep our prices reasonable all year round, so you can always dress fashionably and affordable. We carry a variety of sizes from Small-6XL. Join our VIP list by texting GINGER to 51660 to find out all of the happenings at The Fleurty Ginger Boutique this Christmas season! Mention this article on Black Friday at either location of The Fleurty Ginger Boutique for an extra surprise at checkout!
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Come Rock the Railroad in Ruston Loyal Blue Weekends
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E’VE STARTED A NEW LA TEACH FOOTBALL tradition in Ruston, LA. This season we’re inviting all fans and visitors to join us as we Rock the Railroad during Loyal Blue Weekends. We’re kicking off the football festivities on Friday nights before Saturday home games with family activities, spirit groups, live music and more football fun. On Friday, October 28 join us in Downtown Ruston, where all football fans and visitors are invited to come and Rock the Railroad. Starting at 5:30 p.m. in Railroad Park, families can come out and take part in free kids’ activities, including inflatables, face painting and more. At 6 p.m., Champ, the LA Tech Cheerleaders and the Regal Blues will get the crowd pumped up with some fun and interactive performances. Let the kids cheer along with the spirit groups, as they deliver a big dose of school spirit to the audience! Following the spirit groups, Josh Madden Band will be rocking Railroad Park from 6:30-8:30 p.m. These guys are a local favorite and will blow you away with their talent and energy. Come sing along, dance and have fun in Downtown Ruston during this free concert! Stick around in downtown for extended shopping hours and be sure to grab dinner and drinks at any of the local downtown restaurants. This is the perfect way to gear up for an exciting football game between LA Tech and Rice on Saturday, October 29 at 6 p.m.
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We’re switching things up a little for Homecoming Weekend, and trust us, you won’t want to miss the festivities that will going on in Ruston! On Friday, November 11 we’ll be Rocking the TAC (Thomas Assembly Center) starting at 4:30 p.m. Come enjoy kids’ activities and free live music by Smackwater from 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Smackwater is another local favorite band that is sure to entertain with a range of music including rock, rhythm & blues, New Orleans R&B, Swamp Pop and even some country. At 5:30 p.m., the band will break as the LA Tech spirit groups take the stage for a pep rally before the Lady Techsters basketball game against LSU. Enjoy the music and activities until the game starts at 6:30 p.m., in the TAC. This is going to be a fun way to gear up for the LA Tech Homecoming Game against UTSA on Saturday, November 12 at 2:30 p.m. Don’t forget to park in Downtown Ruston on gamedays and catch the Tech Trolley at Railroad Park, which transports fans to the stadium free of charge. The trolley will run continuously 2 hours prior to kickoff, giving fans plenty of time to tailgate, and 1 hour after the game. We hope to see you for these exciting football festivities this fall in Ruston!
Keep Your Chin Up Kybella Injection for Double Chin
BY TIMOTHY J. MICKEL, MD, CERTIFIED, AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY
Whenever someone tells me to keep my chin up I always ask, “which one?” – Anonymous
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NE OF THE MOST COMMON questions I am asked when evaluating a patient for facial plastic surgery is, “Can you do something about my double chin?” Fortunately, in the hands of a broadly trained, board certified plastic surgeon, there are several good options for improving the neck and jaw line – including the area underneath the chin. These include surgical options, such as liposuction, isolated neck lift and even a full facelift. Sometimes a chin implant in conjunction with these procedures greatly enhances the result. For selected patients, non-surgical fat removal such as CoolSculpt is appropriate. One of the newest and most exciting methods of non-surgical fat removal from the “double chin” area is Kybella, an injectable material that dissolves away fat and can result in significant improvement over time. Kybella is an injectable form of deoxycholic
acid, a bile acid that occurs naturally in the body and helps with the breakdown and digestion of fat. When Kybella is injected into the fat beneath your chin, it kills some of the fat cells making the fat layer thinner and your double chin smaller. Three to five treatments are necessary depending on the size of the fat collection and the elasticity of the overlying skin. The treatment is not painful and is done in the office in about 20 minutes. As the fat cells dissolve, there is an inflammatory reaction that results in redness, mild swelling, numbness and firmness in the treated area that usually resolves in a few days but does not limit activity. Follow up treatments are done every four to six weeks until the desired result is obtained. Of course, like most non-surgical treatments, patient selection is key. Kybella is not for everyone. It only affects the fat; it does not shrink your skin. So, if you are under forty, have good skin quality and a fairly small fat collection, then you are a perfect candidate for Kybella. If you are overweight, over 60 or
have enough extra neck skin to make a wallet or a small purse, then you probably need some other method of treating your double chin. Injecting Kybella is deceptively simple, so you might ask, “Why do I need to come to a plastic surgeon to have this done? I could go to a strip mall walk-in clinic, a day spa or to some other doctor who dabbles in cosmetic procedures.” Yes, you could go to one of those other places. But if you do, you will not have a thorough evaluation and a complete discussion of ALL of the treatment options for your double chin and how it fits into the big picture of your facial appearance. Without this perspective, it will be difficult for you to make an informed decision. This is called tunnel vision - if all you have is a hammer, the whole world is a nail - and it is precisely why it is important that you see a board certified plastic surgeon, who can intelligently discuss all of the options and help align your expectations with reality. So if you have more chins than a Chinese phonebook, Kybella is not for you. But if you are youngish, have a relatively small fat collection and good skin, Kybella may be a great nonsurgical option. Call Mickel Plastic Surgery at 388-2050 and schedule a consultation to see if Kybella is right for you – or to see if you need some other reliable, consistent, time honored surgical method to improve the contour of your neck, chin and jaw line.
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The Villages on Tower Office Park Location, Location, Location.
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HE THREE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS IN REAL estate. This saying has become more of clichÊ these days than anything else. Yet, location is exactly what brought Mack Anderson to Tower Drive. Anderson, along with his wife Jenni are proud to announce the opening of The Villages On Tower, Monroe’s newest office condominium. Located next to Homeland Bank, and across the street from St. Francis Urgent Care Facility, The Villages On Tower offers executive suites in the heart of the fastest growing corridor in Northeast Louisiana. Built by premier developer Holyfield Construction, The Villages On Tower has left no stone unturned in providing a luxurious professional setting that any business owner would be proud to call home. From its energy efficiency to the beautiful landscaping, The Villages On Tower offers business professionals a place to separate yourself from the competition. A fairly unique concept to the area, these condominiums can be leased or purchased by prospective business owners or investors. Owning your own suite is a big cost savings compared to building similar sized stand alone offices. The Villages On Tower also offers the synergy of being in a professional setting with other neighboring businesses.
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There are 13 independent suites for lease or sale, most of which average approximately 1,220 square feet in size, with 1 larger suite measuring 1,737 feet. Each suite has 3 individual offices, conference room, reception and waiting area, restroom, as well as a breakroom furnished with refrigerator and microwave. The larger suite has a 4th office, his and her restrooms, plus an expanded conference area that could also be used as a waiting room for patients. Multiple suites can be combined if more space is needed. If smaller space is what you seek, you can enter into an office sharing concept to reduce overhead. With this option, each individual tenant would have access to his or her own personal office, plus share the conference, reception and breakroom. The office sharing approach is a very inexpensive way to have the right location to achieve success for your business, for a fraction of the operating costs. Lots of options, but only one location. For more information, visit 2551 Tower Drive in Monroe, online at www.thevillagesontower.com, or contact Mack Anderson at 318-381-6225
Cajun Flavor on the Ouachita
Trapp’s Offers New Menu Items Just In Time for the Holidays
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HEN IT COMES TO CAJUN FOOD, IT’S HARD TO find anything better than the Trappey brand. The Trappey name has been synonymous with Cajun food and Louisiana for over a century, 118 years to be exact. When looking for that test of south Louisiana, there is no denying that the perfect place to go in North Louisiana is sitting right on the banks of the beautiful Ouachita River. For over a year and a half, Joey Trappey and Colby Mardis have been operating one of the most successful restaurants in our area. They have created and honed the menu to feature a variety of South Louisiana dishes, including some family favorites. And recently, they’ve made some great additions to their already delectable menu. The appetizer menu gets a boost from the new, mouth-watering Fried Cheese Ravioli. This melt-in-your-mouth dish is topped with Trapp’s popular Crawfish Marlee sauce. Trapp’s is also offering several new items to their entree offerings including a new Spud Menu – this features five different choices from a Seafood Nacho Spud, covered with fried crawfish tails, grilled shrimp, jalapeños, fresh onions, tomatoes and covered with the best white queso dip on this side of the Mississippi River to a Cheeseburger Spud, a little bit of burger spud heaven. Also new to the menu, are (2) 6 oz. pork chops,
fried or grilled, and your choice of two sides. These new items are just a few additions to the expanded menu coming this month. If the new menu items aren’t enough excitement for you, Trapp’s with be hosting a 2-man Scramble on November 19th. “There was such a great response from our golf tournament in the spring, we thought we’d do it again. We are getting our floating green ready and can’t wait to have players come take a swing at the ‘Grassy Knoll,’” said Mardis. There will be live music from 2p.m. until dark, with drink and food specials throughout the day. There is a 20-team limit, so be on the lookout for registration to begin. And don’t forget to book your holiday parties this season at Trapp’s. Their private dining room accommodates 25-100 people and overlooks the gorgeous Ouachita River. Whether you’re looking for an intimate lunch gathering for a small business, or a holiday celebration for a large corporate gathering, Trapp’s is the perfect place. The picturesque river views, delicious catered food, band stage and large inside/outside space make it ideal for holiday parties, rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions and luncheons. They also offer gift certificates for the foodie on your list. Make sure to stop by and see them today at 113 South Riverfront in West Monroe, at the foot at the Endom Bridge, find them on Facebook or call 318.855.6428.
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BAYOU OUTDOORS
They call him
MR. BIBB article by Dan Chason
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ast month I introduced you to my closest childhood friend, Jon Miller. I promised this month to take that another step forward with our simple theme: Friends are a rare commodity. I said it once and it is worth saying again that most people can count their friends on one hand. My definition of a friend is pretty simple. If I’m stuck in a ditch at 4 a.m. and had one phone call who would I call? And would they respond? Such is the case with one of my closest buddies. His real name is George B. Franklin, III. But everyone calls him Bibb. His Dad, George B. Franklin, Jr. founded the Franklin and Son’s longstanding business in Richland Parish. Mr. George, who was featured in a column in his honor, was tragically killed in a UTV accident in 2006. It doesn’t seem like 10 years have passed since Mr. George left us, but spend any time around Bibb or his brothers Roy or Fred Scott and it seems like he is still here. Mr. George left his mark on all of us but the strongest brand is carried by his sons. Bibb is no exception. I tell Bibb he looks like his dad every time he dons the “Elmer Fudd” duck hunting hat like his daddy wore. It is uncanny how much he resembles him. I was introduced to Bibb by Senator Francis Thompson of Delhi. Francis knew me from my television show and told me about a guy that loved to fish as much as I did. It did not hurt that he owned a prime bass fishing hole and gave the both of us an invite. I have to admit that first impressions were hard to pin on Bibb. He showed up in a pair of blue jeans, a snapped up blue denim shirt and a pair of hip boots. Remember now, it is about 120 degrees, and we are fixing to go fishing. Francis explained that Bibb was a rice farmer, and that was his signature. I have to admit the boots were an asset, as I didn’t have to get my own feet wet launching the boats. The thing that did get my attention was when he loaded a tackle box in the boat that had to weigh 300 pounds. He had 7 push button spin cast reels, and each of them had little rings hooked on the end of the line. I had to ask. Bibb quickly explained that he had and 120 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
loved cats. He never stored anything with a hook on it in fear that his cats would find where he stored his rods. Made sense to me. I tell Bibb he is stuck in the 70s as he only recently gave up his analog flip phone (that stays in his truck....he will not carry a phone). He stays mad at his I-Phone as it is too sensitive to touch and don’t even think about texting or having email. A simple man who lived in simpler times. We launched two boats with Bibb in one and Francis, my cameraman and me in the other. I had high hopes. We fished for quite a while and were having a really successful day as the bass were hungry. If Bibb came by us once, he came by us 20 times to “see what we were throwing.” Sure enough, they wanted a Wobblehead ,and Bibb soon showed that rice farming wasn’t his only skill. I have never met an angler with such limited equipment (I call them his Mickey Mouse rods) who could catch bigger bass. Every time we go to that private lake, it reminds me of Mr. George, his dad. Mr. George would sit on the levee (where he eventually lost his life) and watch the two of us fish. He would rag his son and cheer me on in a manner that all of us enjoyed. I always look at that lake levee and expect Mr. George to pull up again. But this trip like many more to come would show Bibb to be the big fish man. The guy just has the knack and knows how to catch big bass. But hunting is another story. Bibb is an absolute gun nut. If you can name a rifle, he probably has it. He and his wife, Shawn, share a gun collection that doesn’t sit on a shelf. They believe in custom rifles, scopes and ammunition as Shawn is a die-hard deer
hunter. Bibb on the other hand says, “I’d rather shoot a cow,” when it comes to deer hunting. But he loves to work on the land and stands for friends and Shawn to assure everyone has a good hunt. I remember a couple of years ago, Bibb called me on New Year’s Eve. It was about 7 p.m. and Shawn had shot a good buck. Being his “ox was in a ditch,” I stopped what I had planned and loaded up to go and help track Shawn’s deer. We tracked the deer into the water, where we located it, submerged in a brush top. Luckily, my friend Ragan Cobb had a tracking dog, Patches. Without her we would have never found that deer. After Ragan left, we then had the task of retrieving this deer in about 7 feet of water. All that was visible was the tips of his horns in a brush top. The water temperature was about 40 degrees, and it was cold. There was not a way to get a boat to the deer and many attempts later, we still hadn’t been successful. The next morning we returned, and Bibb came up with a grand idea. He produced the hook and pole from his swimming pool. After taking a cold bath, I was lucky enough to hook the horns and retrieve her trophy. Shawn was ecstatic. It’s a memory I will have for a long time. Bibb is known, as his father was, to be a giving soul. He has a love of politics, his wife and family but he reserves a place for the less fortunate. I won’t embarrass him and even start talking about the many times I’ve seen him give from the heart to his church, friends or someone he doesn’t even know. I have learned a great deal from Bibb as he is a gifted woodsman and will tell you Eagle Scout tales for hours. But what is not known about Bibb is his ability to sing.
Yep, sing. I learned about it in a duck blind, when the ducks weren’t flying one morning. Bibb started talking about his rodeo days and started singing a cowboy tune. He claims that the tradition was a way to calm cattle at night from predators. I have to admit, the tunes did have the tendency to bring on a yawn. That talent has led to many performances to many guests that have shared our blinds at the honey holes we hunt. I guess my advice on friends is this: Don’t judge a book or a man by his cover. I landed a friend for life the day I met Bibb Franklin. The hip boots and the cowboy tunes are just a bonus.
I would be remiss if I left out the recent loss of my friend, mentor and hero, Dr. Bobby Smith with the Louisiana State Police. Bobby passed away on Sunday, October 2 in his sleep at the age of 63. I mourn his passing but rejoice in knowing he is now seeing for the first time since blinded by a shotgun blast while on duty in 1986. I also rejoice with him as he is finally with his two children, Kim and Brad who left this earth way too early. I mourn with his wife, Janie and all the law enforcement brothers and sisters who lost a great man who unselfishly gave of his talents to guide them through traumatic experiences. I will miss you, Bobby. You left a huge hole that no one will ever fill. Rest in Peace.
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Croswell’s Boutique 139 – Where Fashion Meets Fun! Ladies Night at Boutique 139 Set for November 3rd, 5 - 8 p.m.
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IDDEN AWAY IN THE WOODED OUTSKIRTS OF Bastrop, Louisiana lies the alluring Boutique 139. Unlike anything found in the surrounding areas, our boutique will make you feel as though you are shopping at home with your best friends. The Croswell’s girls are experts at offering personal assistance to help you coordinate a one-of-a-kind look for any occasion. You only have to come in once, and you’ll return often to experience our relaxed shopping atmosphere! Whether it be for Thanksgiving Day, a wedding, date night or a girls’ weekend, Boutique 139 can accommodate all styles at reasonable prices. With our affordable prices, you will have no reason to not come and update your wardrobe. With colder weather comes lots of fun layers, booties, chokers and much more - so out with the old and in the new this winter! Boutique 139 has entire outfits from tops, jeans, dresses, vests, jewelry, shoes, hats and all kinds of beautiful accessories. Mirrors adorn the boutique allowing you to see what works best for you. With its cozy and comfortable setting, Boutique 139 is just an extension of your closet. Space has never been an issue at this boutique. Croswell’s Boutique 139 resides in a comfortable 12,000 sq. ft. building, letting you stretch out, move around and try things on. We have also simplified the layout ,so that it is effortless to find what you are looking for. You’ll never
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knock anything off the racks or bump into tables at this boutique. Separate yourself from all the others and take a trip to this timeless, classic boutique. If you are an online shopper, visit the website at croswells.myshopify.com or find us at 7540 Old Monroe Rd. in Bastrop. We are open Monday-Friday 10-5:30 and Saturdays 10-4. You only have to visit once to understand that there is simply no other boutique like it! Croswell’s Boutique 139 would like to invite you to our Lady’s Night, November 3rd – Remember No Men, No Kids – just you, Ladies. So start your holiday shopping or shop for yourself at this once a year event. We will have hundreds of new styles available. It’s where fun meets fashion and is the perfect time of year to come see what this boutique has to offer. For more information call 318-281-4881 or check us out on Instagram at boutique_139 and on FaceBook. On a personal note: We would like to remember our founder, John Croswell, Sr. who passed away on October 1, 2016. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him. We will honor his memory as we forge ahead and continue to serve our customers here at Croswell’s in the years to come. Caron Croswell Johnson
McKinney Honda Has Something For Everyone The McKinney Gift Guide
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T MCKINNEY HONDA, WE ARE EXPERTS IN ALL THE seasons – deer, duck, turkey...and even holiday shopping season! We know that the holidays are hectic, so we took out some of the stress. We created the McKinney Gift Guide, and it has something for everyone on your list. While we are known for our dirt bikes and four-wheelers and have plenty to choose from in that department, our store has so much more to offer. Everyone is always looking for the perfect stocking stuffer, and we have plenty of options. Hot items this year include Costa sunglasses, Yeti Ramblers, Drake Wallets, neat SD card readers for your smartphone, the popular Steamlight Flashlights or a Go Pro Camera for the adventurous one on your list. And if they have been really nice this year, there is always the idea of putting the keys to a new 4-wheeler in their stocking. When they come out of the woods and look under the tree, your favorite hunter would love to find any of our Drake, Banded or Sitka camo with their name on it. McKinney’s also has stylish apparel from Southern Marsh, Woolrich Clothing, Mountain Khakis and Columbia that your elves are sure to love. If you have someone on your list that is hard to buy for
this year get them a McKinney Honda gift card. They can use it anywhere in the store. Purchases on guns, ammo, clothing, parts, service, lawn equipment, accessories and more are all covered with a gift card. We even have a special gift that has become somewhat of a tradition – the McKinney’s Christmas Kershaw Knife. Custom made for McKinney Honda each year, this knife normally retails for $50, but we offer it during the holidays for just $15.99. On Christmas morning, it can be the first gift opened, so you can open the rest…depending on how much tape Santa used. McKinney’s has free in-store gift wrapping and lay-a-way for ATV’s and dirt bikes, along with a wide selection of gifts that will keep on giving—you really can’t go wrong with a gift from your outdoor superstore. Stop by and see the experienced and friendly staff – 715 North Service Road, next to Raising Canes in Ruston. Check out their Facebook page for give-a-ways and more from the gift guide!
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‘Tis the Season for Unique Shopping A Stroll Down Antique Alley
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HE HISTORIC COTTONPORT District in downtown West Monroe showcases the treasure that is Antique Alley, where visitors have an array of shopping, dining, art, antiques and even a bed and breakfast, with walking tours coming to the area soon. Heading south on Trenton Street, one first passes Coco’s Mercantile featuring linens, bedding and rugs. Cross over Pine Street and stop in Eleven 26 Boutique, where the latest fashions are on display. Potpourri de Tante Marie has antique furniture and collectibles, while Malcomb’s Woodcrafts & Treasures has wood crafts and ladies’ accessories. Bent Oaks Boutique offers comfort and flair with linen clothing. From there, cross Natchitoches Street into Something Special II, a store specializing in gifts for the home. Cricket Beaux Bicket caters to embroidery
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and monogram needs. Take a homemade lunch break at Kayla’s Kitchen on Wood Street before heading back down Trenton Street. Stop into Trenton Street Antiques for estate jewelry and then Vintage Market for the shabby chic furniture, gifts, and accessories. Southern Style Antiques Gift & Salon is next, offering an eclectic mix of old and new treasures, and nestled inside is Jackie’s Collectibles stocked with militaria memorabilia. Wet your palate at The Spice & Tea Exchange with flavors from around the globe. Next door, Downtown Accessories Boutique offers women’s and children’s clothing along with distressed furniture. Free Birds Boutique is a funky shop for ladies of all sizes and features Louisiana apparel. Stop on Natchitoches Street to visit Mayo Custom Interiors for one-of-a-kind furniture built to
your specifications and Old Town Guns for the unique sportsman or collector. Head back to Trenton for Memory Lane Antiques with selected pieces from the New England area and the largest selection of old books. Southern Lady is next door stocked with European and American furniture, followed by Walsworth & Company with unique home furnishings and bridal registry. Traditions offers the finest in European antiques and Imperial Galleries is America’s largest authorized Lampe Berger dealer. Rialto Antique Market features fine English, French and American furniture, while Cotton Port Antique Mall offers collectibles, records and glassware. Cross over Pine Street and have a sweet treat at Miss Kay’s Sweets & Eats where Phil’s pralines are a must-taste. End the day with dinner at Roma Italian Bistro and stay at The Hamilton House Inn Bed & Breakfast. If you’re looking for a space to house your shop or office, consider Cotton Port Plaza and Executive Suites. Locally owned shops offer a holiday shopping experience like no other. (Regular shop hours vary; however, most shops are open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm.) For extended holiday shopping hours visit us online! www.antiquealleyshops.org facebook.com/AntiqueAlley
Junior League of Monroe Education Task Force The Education Task Force branch of the Junior League is an outreach program in our community that focuses on educators, as well as struggling and scholar students. First on our agenda, our committee will partner with Learning Tech Academy to implement ACT prep workshops in one Monroe City high school, as well as one parish high school. We plan to cater to struggling students within these high schools who will benefit the most; these will take place in the fall and spring semesters. A majority of our committee’s objective, is the allotment of our mini grant awards to educators throughout our community. Teachers in our area are given the opportunity to apply for this grant worth up to five hundred dollars. Teachers who apply will tell our committee members, in detail, how this money will be used. Collaboratively, we intensely review these applications and select up to 30 winners! Mini grant winners will be announced and notified on November 1st. In addition, our annual mini grant reception will be held at the Junior League house on Thursday, November 10th at 6:30 p.m. The Education Task Force is also a vital part of the Ouachita Scholars Banquet for High School students. This is a prestigious event for students
throughout our area who achieve a certain academic status at the time of graduation. The Scholars Banquet recognizes public, private and parochial students from Ouachita Parish who have maintained a 3.5 grade point average through seven semesters of high school and scored at least a 25 on the ACT. The Junior League takes a great deal of pride in our educational involvement within our community. This committee is made up of an average of 10 members each year. For 2016-2017, the co-chairs for this committee are Lauren Voorhees and Chelsie Summerville. ABOUT THE JUNIOR LEAGUE We are an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. OUR PURPOSE Our purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. We reach out to women of all races, religions and national origins, who demonstrate an interest in and commitment to voluntarism.
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Monroe Renaissance Hosts Annual Holiday Party Save the Date– December 3rd
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ESTIVE FUN, FOOD AND FIREWORKS.THESE ARE THE elements that culminate to create one of Monroe’s best parties of the year – the Monroe Renaissance “Up on the Rooftop” party! Monroe Renaissance is a group of volunteers that are constantly working to stimulate and make possible the re-awakening of downtown Monroe through community participation, resulting in an enhanced quality of life. This year, the event will have a different twist because its “down by the river.” Due to the construction on the Vantage Parking Garage, the event will be held at another location in downtown Monroe. However, there will still be VIP viewing of the Monroe Renaissance Christmas Fireworks Extravaganza sponsored by Origin Bank on Saturday, December 3. Other sponsors include BayouLife Magazine, the City of Monroe, The City of West Monroe and the Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. The party is from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., with the fireworks shooting off the Endom Bridge at 7 p.m. Guests will enjoy complimentary drinks from Choice Brands, Marsala Beverage and Glazer’s as well as delicious food! To add to the flurry of festivities, there will be live music to rock the night away!
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One lucky patron will take home Santa’s Sleigh…. literally. For $20, you can purchase a ticket to win gifts and prizes from local retailers, including clothing items, jewelry, gift certificates and more! This gift filled sleigh is valued at thousands of dollars, and one person will win it all! Partygoers can also visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus as they mingle through the crowd and can even take a piece of the party home with a snap shot from the party photo booth. Single tickets are available for $30, $50 per couple and $500 to reserve a table, with all proceeds benefiting Monroe Renaissance. For more information, contact Monroe Renaissance at 318-807-1177. Monroe Renaissance is a non-profit organization that works on various projects throughout the downtown area. In addition to the party, the group has contributed to the lights throughout the downtown area for the holiday season. In a partnership with the Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, Monroe Renaissance dedicated money over the past three years to pay for the lights to be installed on various buildings throughout the downtown area and down the riverfront. This not only provides festive holiday lights, but also serves as a reminder that there is life returning to the downtown area!
Central Station Drive-Thru
Redefining What It Means To Be A Convenience Store “
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HIS IS A MOM’S DREAM COME TRUE,” “AWESOME,” and “life-changing,” are a few of the rave reviews about Central Station’s latest innovation: a drive thru convenience store on the corner of Oliver Road and Forsythe in Monroe. Everything in the store is available through the drive-thru window, with the exception of lottery tickets. Just the thought of drive-thru icees, chips and fountain drinks gets us excited—the possibilities are endless, and the convenience is unsurpassed! Not only does Central Station lead the way with cutting-edge ideas and awesome in-store deals—they’ve got some pretty sweet giveaways going on right now, too. The company is passionate about grassroots efforts, showing a presence at every ULM home game and evening events like Ladies’ Night Out and Spring Market. You will always find them offering 5-dollar-value “Snack Packs” or “Swag Bags” with one simple catch: sign up for their text incentive program! (Which will only result in receiving news about more awesome freebies and deals—straight to your phone!) You also won’t regret checking out their Facebook page; the company keeps their loyal fans in-the-
know with posts about monthly specials, seasonal contests, and in-store offers. Central Station is constantly looking for new ways to serve their customers in Northeast Louisiana. In fact, the company has recently broken ground in Log Cabin, Louisiana, where they will build their most unique location yet. The multi-business convenience store will have premium non-ethanol fuel (just like the Oliver Rd. location), as well as a robust food menu for the people of Log Cabin. You’ll be able to get frozen yogurt, gourmet pizza and fried chicken through the drive-thru, and these are just a few of the offerings Central Station will bring to the area. So the next time you’re on the way home from a game with a little one that you don’t want to tote around the store, just visit our friends at the Central Station Drive-Thru; they’re redefining convenience—and what it means to be a convenience store—every day.
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Simply Lou The Big One
article and illustration by Lou Davenport
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t’s that time of year again when a majority of men, especially Southern men, go “buck wild crazy.” Deer Season! I think “bow season” is already going on, and it won’t be long until it’s “primitive weapons” season. Then, it gets really serious. Firearms, if you “still hunt,” and then after that, you can hear the dogs a-running! Shoot em up, boys! This madness goes on for several months. I can speak pretty knowledgeably about this, because I was married to one of these “buck wild crazy deer huntin’ men!” And, I grew up around more of these crazed deer hunters. All of them were always stalking “The Big One.” And the planning for all this starts way before any of the so called “seasons” even start. Gotta get all that gear ready! Stake out the best place for the stand! Look for those scrapes on trees! Do you have your deer musk? (deer pee...ugh) I met Larry Davenport, when I was 20 years old. I heard all his deer stories. I didn’t really know what I was getting into when he asked me if I wanted to go hunting with him. Well, I was wanting to show him I wasn’t some “little Southern Belle,” so I agreed. We walked for what seemed like 20 miles to me. I was tired. I was hungry. I wanted a smoke. I was thirsty. Let’s put it this way; I was NOT enjoying this, but I was a trooper, and I kept my mouth shut until....he mentioned, “You could be the dog and run ahead and bark.” That
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Southern Belle came out. “I beg your pardon, sir, but I am no DAWG!” He just downright insulted my Southern Belle sensibilities! That hunt didn’t last much longer after that, thank goodness! He sure did know how to “woo a woman.” It would take 20+ years for me to go deer hunting with him again. Larry had a knack for buying gifts for me. I got a brand new fishing rod for Mother’s Day once. When I had our first child, Carolyn, I got some roses with a card that said “Congratulations, Larry Davenport.” And I only got roses three times from him,whenever I had a baby. Larry was a quiet man. But, if he had something to say, it was usually worth hearing. He was a good man, sometimes a rascal, and loved me and those three little Davenports for sure. We loved him beyond words. From the end of deer season until the next one opened, he was his normal self. But, the closer Opening Day got, he began to transform into some other person. He stood up on the roof and shot his bow at a hay bail with a target. He got all his toys out. Cleaned, oiled and went to sight in the guns. The only time I ever shot a gun was when I was asked to go “bless the sighting of one of his new guns.” He put that big ol’ gun up to my shoulder. It was so heavy, I almost couldn’t hold it up. When I shot it, that thing kicked me to the
ground right on my butt! I even got a bruised shoulder. He laughed! He knew that gun was going to do that to me! Well, that “elephant gun” as I named it, did not get blessed that day. It got cussed. I even bought him a muzzle loader for a Christmas present one year. I know nothing about guns, so one of his friends told me he would go with me, and he knew just where to go to get a deal. We drove off into the backwoods somewhere between Jackson and Vicksburg. We finally came to a warehouse. Then, I got scared. Inside were big crates and scary looking men. I thought what have I gotten myself into? Finally a normal looking guy came over. I told him what I needed, he got the gun, and I quickly paid him....cash! Then, he told me since he liked me, he was going to give me a free bag...for the balls! Balls!? Those things shoot balls? I grabbed that free bag with balls and got out of there. The things we’ll do for love! My heart didn’t stop racing until we got back on I-20 headed for Vicksburg! The gift was a huge success, but I had to tell him the lengths I went to to get him that thing. I seriously think I had bought from a gun runner! I could imagine myself getting caught there during an ATF raid! So, it’s the day before Opening Day again, and Larry Davenport was like a little kid. He talked non stop. He was giddy with excitement. I’d just leave him up talking and
go to bed. I’d just tell him good night, I’ll see ya when I see ya. Hope you get “The Big One!” We wouldn’t see much of him during the season. He would leave before daylight and come dragging in way past dark. Rain, sleet or snow, he was out there. I even saw him with ice on his mustache one time! But, he was happy, “crazed” and tracking “The Big One.” A day came that he asked if I wanted to go with him. I thought since it had been 20+ years since I had gone, I’d go. And he knew better than ask me to go “be the dog!” I also counted on him not staying too long, because he was going to have to put up with me. WRONG! It was one of the darkest, dreariest days. A cold drizzle fell. What was I thinking? Everything was gray...cold and gray and wet. I was miserable, before I even got there. And it was so early, I hadn’t had my pot of coffee. We hiked down a pig trail, and we walked and walked and walked. By this time, I was getting grumpy and whiny. I had to put on this red poncho to stay semi- dry, and my feet were freezing. He finally found a good place. He told me I had to be quiet. Me? I stayed as quiet as I could, until I got to squirming around trying to get somewhat comfortable. I wanted some coffee. I wanted a smoke. I was hungry. In my near delirium, I thought if I moan, groan and complain enough, he’ll take my grumpy behind home. That didn’t work. Dynamite couldn’t have blown him out of those woods! I am not a patient person. I admit it. But, finally I announced my butt was asleep, and I had to get up and go walk out all the leg cramps. Oh, that was the wrong thing to say. We walked another what seemed like 10 miles. We ended up in one of those famous Vicksburg gullies. So steep that if you fell, you’d roll for an hour to get to the bottom. You wouldn’t remember it, you’d most likely be D.O.A. I found myself a tree and got under it. Got my poncho all wrapped around myself like a little red cocoon and thought, “I am in Hell.” Larry went off rambling around to listen for the dogs. Water started dripping in on me, and I was fit to be tied! I wanted to go home! And then, a HUGE BOOM went off, and I think I jumped five feet in the air throwing my poncho off, looking to see if I had been shot! On the ground, 6 feet from me, lay a huge buck! I think I was in shock, but then, I saw a man I truly did not know. This man I had been married to for 20 something years was doing a DANCE round and round this buck! I had never seen anything like it. He kept chanting as he danced, “THE BIG ONE! THE BIG ONE!” I had never seen him behave like this! He didn’t do a dance, when I had had three babies! But, oh, THE BIG ONE. Now, that was different! Now, don’t get me wrong. I was excited for him, I really was. But, I did ask WHY didn’t you tell me you were about to shoot that “elephant gun” at this monster that was headed right for me?! He said, “I did!” (NOT!) Then I asked, “Do we get to go home now?” NO! He had to go get somebody to help him drag that big buck up that hill. Then, go show off his trophy to all his other deer crazed huntin’ buddies! I understood that. I really did. I just hoped it was warm and there was some coffee up “at the camp house.” Larry got “bragging rights” that year at the hunting club. His BIG ONE really was the biggest for many years. He had it mounted and it hung in our living room, until I had to sell the house and move. It now hangs in my living room here and whenever I look at it, I laugh about that “deer dance” and the “buck wild crazy deer huntin’ man” that finally got his “Big One!” “Congratulations, Larry Davenport!” Happy Thanksgiving y’all! And to all you other “buck wild crazy deer huntin’ men,” may you all get yourself “A BIG ONE!”
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Let It Sparkle
These beautiful baubles are sure to make her Christmas jolly this year. From custom-designed pieces to antique heirlooms, our local fine jewelers will have her swooning for Santa. Photography by Martin G Meyers
Hollis & Company Jewelers
Clockwise from top left: John Hardy Bamboo Cuff Bracelets in Red and Black Enamel; Black and white diamond pendant; Art Deco 3 diamond ring framed by Onyx in filigree platinum mounting; 5ct. black diamond ring surrounded by rose cut diamonds; Edwardian platinum bracelet with 12cts. of bezel set diamonds; Floral earrings with black and white coral accented by diamonds; and Antique Old Mine cut dangle earrings, c1860, set in sterling silver.
DuPont Jewelers
1.17 Carat PavĂŠ Cluster Necklace; 1.26 ct Blue Diamond Halo Pendant; .89 ct TW Earrings with Canary Diamonds; Handmade Peridot Diamond Ring; Anniversary Ring 2.05 ct; 3.08 ct Blue Diamonds surrounded by White Diamonds; and Earrings .58 ct.
National Jewelry Company
Beautiful pieces by Gabriel and Co. including: Victorian Medallion Necklace; Diamond Indulgence Bar Necklace; Round Clustered Diamond Necklace; Short Chain Diamond Bar Necklace; Square Hampton Fashion Ring; Staggered Diamond Wide Band Ring; Braided Diamond Wide Band Ring; and Round Clustered Diamond Earrings. 132 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
Junior League RECIPES
by Tara Ambrose
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all is in the air! The pumpkins and mums are out, and it’s time to dust off your cookbooks for family gatherings. But what if that old cookbook with Aunt Betty’s pecan pie just doesn’t seem to do the trick? What if you’ve served Granny’s dressing recipe just one too many times? Then you’re in luck, because the Junior League of Monroe has 3 timeless cookbooks on sale just for you! Those in need of a little something “extra” or even just a little something different can choose from the timeless “Cotton Country Collection,” or the more recent publications of “Cooking in High Cotton” or one of my personal favorites, “Celebrations on the Bayou.” All three publications are available Monday through Thursday at the Junior League House located at 2811 Cameron Street, Monroe, LA 71201. You may also call ahead at (318) 322-3236 for gift wrapping, as these three cookbooks make marvelous gifts for anniversary, birthday, bridal showers and more! To share in the holiday spirit, the Junior League Cookbook Committee offers the following holiday recipes to share with your family during the holiday season. Sangria Cotton Country Collection, page 15 • 2 Gallows California Zinfandel • 2 Quarts Orange Juice • 2 Cups of Lemon Juice • 1 Cup of Sugar • 1 Cup of Brandy • ½ Cup of Cointreau • 2 Quarts Soda Water • 3 Oranges, Sliced • 3 Lemons, Sliced Directions: Mix and chill wine, orange juice, lemon juice, sugar, brandy and Cointreau. Pour in punch bowl; add soda, sliced oranges and lemons just before serving. Float frozen fruit arrangement in a bowl or decorated ice ring. Makes 13 quarts or about 100 punch cups.
Bess Burns’ Cornbread Dressing Cotton Country Collection, page 306 • 1 black iron skillet of cornbread, any recipe • ½ bell pepper, chopped • 3 celery ribs, chopped • 1 bunch of green onions, chopped • 1 medium onion, chopped • 1 pound Bryan’s sausage • 4 chicken bouillon cubes, dissolved in 1 cup boiling water • 1 can Morton’s chicken broth • 1 cup chicken fat or butter • 4 eggs • 1 teaspoon Lawry’s seasoning salt • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper • Salt to taste • 1 pint of oysters, drained • 1 package of Pepperidge Farm dressing mix
Directions: Make cornbread ahead of time by your favorite recipe in your iron skillet. Sauté bell pepper, celery and onions with the sausage. Melt 4 bouillon cubes in the boiling water. Add chicken broth and chicken fat or butter. Pour all the ingredients into a large Dutch oven with the crumbled cornbread. Add remaining ingredients. Bake in a 450 degree oven, about 1 to 1 ½ hours, until the crust is brown on top. This will serve 12 amply. Broccoli Salad Cooking in High Cotton, page 82 • 1 bunch of broccoli • 1 small red onion, chopped • 4 or 5 slices bacon, crispcooked and crumbled • ½ cup of raisins • 1/3 cup of vinegar • 1 ½ tablespoons sugar • Pepper to taste • ¾ cup of mayonnaise Directions: Cut the broccoli stems and florets into small pieces and place in a bowl. Add the onion, bacon and raisins and mix well. Blend the vinegar, sugar, pepper and mayonnaise in a bowl. Pour over the broccoli mixture and toss to coat. Chill, covered, for 2 to 3 hours before serving.
Roasted Asparagus Celebrations on the Bayou, page 141 • ½ lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and peeled halfway up • 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil • ½ lemon, cut into wedges • Freshly ground black pepper
Directions: Preheat oven to 500 degrees. Place asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet or shallow pan. Drizzle with olive oil. Roast asparagus in the middle of the oven, turning spears occasionally for even cooking and to avoid browning, about 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the stalks. Serve hot with lemon wedges and a pepper mill at the table. 2 servings. Southern Sweet Potato Ring Celebrations on the Bayou, page 148 • 8 medium sweet potatoes • 1 stick plus 1 tablespoon butter, softened • ½ cup light brown sugar • 1- 5 oz can evaporated milk • 1 teaspoon nutmeg • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 1 egg, slightly beaten • ¾ cup raisins, optional • ½ cup dark brown sugar • ½ cup pecan halves Directions: Bake sweet potatoes in 350 degree oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Remove peeling. In a large bowl, mash potatoes with a fork. Add 1 stick of butter, light brown sugar, milk, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, and egg. Mix well. Fold in raisins. Generously spray a bundt pan or 9-cup mold with cooking spray and lightly grease with 1 tablespoon soft butter. Sprinkle dark brown sugar in bottom of pan, follow with pecan halves, then gently spoon in the sweet potato mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 60 minutes. After baking, let cool 15 minutes and unmold onto a warmed platter. 12 servings.
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Crumbs Catering For Easy and Delicious Holiday Entertaining
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HEF JODIE MORPHEW AND OLIVIA STINSON OF Crumbs Catering of Ruston have a deep appreciation for service. The ladies’ passion for cooking and joy of helping others to celebrate life, started at a very young age, and it continues to grow. The Crumbs’ Chefs have a true love of cooking and thrive on becoming part of your family, when helping you plan your event. The satisfaction that comes from seeing a happy bride on her wedding day or the sight of relief of the nervous dinner party hostess is unmeasurable. Crumbs understands that nothing is more personal than what you serve your family and guest. Jodie and Olivia are thankful that they get to be a part of your precious memories. Crumbs loves the idea of carrying on Grandma’s cooking legacy, when it comes to your holiday dinner table. We can help you provide all traditional “fixings,” without having to work up a sweat. Our Christmas and Thanksgiving offerings come to you ready to be baked in the oven. There is no competing with Grandma’s cooking, and we know even she would approve. Place your order by phone or e-mail today. Planning to entertain this holiday season? Whatever type of Holiday festivities you have in store, Chefs Jodie Morphew and Olivia Stinson can offer you the perfect menu! Corporate events, private home soirees and all events in between are never too big or too small for our services. It is our strict attention to every detail and high quality standards that ensure your event will be a success. Crumbs prides itself on a vast menu offering traditional fares to more contemporary services. You will not want to miss the red beans and rice arancini, apple honey with goat cheese crostini, whipped pumpkin and brie quesadilla, seared andouille topped with pimento cheese or just good ole traditional dressing. The list of delicious bites is endless and constantly growing as the Chefs develop new menu items for their clients. Some popular fall desserts Olivia is currently offering are pumpkin spice everything, rich chocolate s’more bites and dipped caramel apple bark. Crumbs is your one stop shop for quality, tasty, made with love meals! Call or e-mail us today at (318) 2247082 or Crumbscateringofruston@gmail.com
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Woodstock Furniture Revival BABY, It’s Cold Outside!
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ITH THE JOY OF THE HOLIDAYS RIGHT AROUND the corner, we at Woodstock Furniture Revival have a big announcement! You’ve asked for it, and we have listened. Woodstock is proud to announce our baby home and gift collection. Our vision is to provide a spot for our customers to find unique baby items, as well as furniture, home décor and gifts. Are you looking for uncommon nursery room décor? Whether it’s a unique crib mobile or wall décor for your little one, we have you covered! Of course, we are just getting started building up our baby inventory. Eventually our goal is to offer a unique crib and baby bedding line like none other in the area! We hope to provide a place where you can swing by to get ideas for decorating your precious angel’s sanctuary or playroom! Stop by Woodstock for a dose of inspiration. Our inventory now houses an exclusive variety of items for kids and baby that you will not find anywhere else. These include beautiful hand crocheted baby mobiles, rattles and stuffed animals, screenprinted canvases, baby baskets in a variety of sizes, and super cute monthly stickers! We have uniquely printed swaddles, braided pacifier clips and wooden teething toys. These are a few gift items that are available now, but stay tuned to our progress to see new items. So if you are looking for the perfect item for your little one or just a baby gift, stop by 1806 N 3rd Street in the Garden District of Monroe. Gift cards and layaway are available! As always, Woodstock Furniture Revival is your gift headquarters in the Monroe area, with trusted brands such as Barr-Co.,Lafco, Lollia, and Voluspa just to name a few. The holidays are our favorite time of year! You can always find ornaments, pumpkins and more to spice up your holiday decorating. And with our new baby edition, visit us and scratch even more items off your list! Be sure to join us for our Holiday Open House on Saturday November 12th from 10-5 to see what we have in store! Woodstock Furniture Revival 1806 North 3rd Street • Monroe, LA 71201 318-340-9830
Sincerely,
Chelsie and Patrick WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 135
North Central LA Arts Council Holiday Arts Tour
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AKE THE SHORT DRIVE OVER TO CHARMING downtown Ruston for NCLAC’s Holiday Arts Tour, December 2 and 3. Holiday Arts Tour is a celebration of the arts, where historic Ruston plays host to well over 50 visual and performing artists for a downtown-wide art crawl! Visitors can shop late on Friday from 5-9 p.m. and all day on Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., to chat with creatives who have “set up shop” in 27 places throughout downtown. Performances in music, dance and theatre will take place on the sidewalks, along with technique demonstrations such as calligraphy, screenprinting, wood-carving and more. Visitors can vote on their favorite Holiday Arts Tour artist for our People’s Choice Award, as well as view a large group exhibition at Studio 301. New this year will be Saturday morning activities at Railroad Park. These will include Sprout Hour and Art Battle. Sprout Hour will offer hands’ on art activities for children. There will projects with fiber, collage, writing and more, all led by working artists. Sprout Hour is free for the public and will run from 10-11 a.m. The Art Battle will be a live painting competition with artists working in real time for Tour-goers to watch! Visitors can vote on
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their favorite painting with bucks in buckets, as well as bid on the finished artworks. The action will be from 10-11 a.m. This family-friendly event should be your destination the first weekend in December. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and get your gift-giving knocked out with original works made by regional artists and artisans. Each of the artists will have works for sale, and all the performances and demonstrations will be free to view. This is the 29th year for the North Central Louisiana Arts Council to present Holiday Arts Tour, and it really keeps getting better and better. This year’s artist roster includes painting, photography, jewelry, books, calligraphy, drawing, woodworking and much more. Our region has a wealth of artistic talent—come check it out at NCLAC’s Holiday Arts Tour! A complete schedule for the weekend can be found at nclac.org
Love It, Love It Not! Introducing Dermapen TattOff™ BY JUDY WAGONER
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HO SAID TATTOOS WERE designed to last forever? Thanks to revolutionary advancements in microneedling technology, Dermapen TattOff will quickly rid you of that “OOPS” moment. Professional Laser Center in Monroe is, once again, at the forefront of cutting edge technology in Medical Aesthetics in north Louisiana. Currently, it’s one of only six providers of the Dermapen TattOff Tattoo Removal System in the entire country. This amazing technology allows tattoo removal of ALL colors, without the use of painful lasers. Dermapen TattOff uses a microneedling technique, which deposits a special, proprietary, mild acid into the tattoo. The pigment is then brought to the surface of the skin in the form of a scab, removing the ink from the body.
Many tattoo inks contain heavy metals that have been linked to a large number of health problems, including cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Among the most concerning metals found in tattoos are mercury, lead, antimony, beryllium, cadmium and arsenic. Many also contain dangerous phthalates and hydrocarbons. Phthalates have been shown to damage the liver, kidneys, lungs and reproductive systems in animal studies. Until now, the most common method of removing tattoos was with a laser, which super-heats the pigment causing it to break into smaller particles. These components are then absorbed into the body and bloodstream for elimination. Many may never be fully eliminated from the body and may cause damage to the skin or other body organs.
Now there is a much safer way to remove your unwanted tattoo. A specialized acid compound is gently infused into the depth of the ink deposits with 11 microneedles. The micro-trauma causes pigment to breakup without the use of painful laser heat. The body’s response is to form a scab around the pigment and bring it to the surface. Once the scab falls off, so does the unwanted color. This limits the amount of residual pigment left in the body. The Dermapen TattOff is also less painful and expensive (due to the reduced number of treatments). Only one to four treatments are required, as opposed to 8 to 10 treatments with the laser, and it won’t damage your natural skin pigment. Another plus is the Dermapen TattOff is ‘color-blind’ and will REMOVE ALL COLORS, including the most exotic hues, unlike lasers that can only treat a limited range of colors. It’s also suitable for the permanent removal of cosmetic, professionally applied and amateur tattoos. Patients with darker skin tones may not be candidates, because, as with lasers, the pigment in dark skin itself may be affected. A free consultation can help resolve any questions. Call 318-361-9066.
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IMPROVING
Upon Perfection THE HOME OF KELLI AND JIM WORTHEY. ARTICLE BY MARÉ BRENNAN. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN G MEYERS
Interior Design by Julie Mays Addition Architecture: Cassidy Keim Outdoor Living Area Construction: Lincoln Outdoor Living, Bryan Beck Landscaping: Drew Hampton Pool Construction: Clay Pools
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Countertops of Taj Mahal quartzite add a lightness to the space.
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The newly rebuilt fireplace is faced with a glimmering stacked quartzite with a hand-chiseled quartz bench seating at the hearth. On either side of the fireplace a metallic backed cork wall covering adds just a touch of metallic shine behind matching contemporary sideboards on tall legs. 140 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
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erched high on a hill within Choudrant’s tony Squire Creek, the chic home of Kelli and Jim Worthey has served the Worthey family well since they built it in 2004. Jim, who owns businesses in both Shreveport and Monroe/West Monroe, and Kelli had lived in Shreveport for eight years before the move to north central Louisiana. Just before making the move to Choudrant, the Wortheys built a similar house in Shreveport’s Southern Trace and sold it before they even had the chance to move in. The couple loved that home design so much, they ended up building the same design beneath the pines at Squire Creek. “We were the first house built on our street,” says Kelli. One of the main draws for the move to Squire Creek was the family’s ability to fish, play golf and hunt right on property. “And it’s only ten minutes from our driveway to Ruston,” adds the homeowner. As luck would have it, a young interior designer named Julie Mays would move from Thibodaux to Ruston in the very same month as the Wortheys. Kelli, a physician’s assistant, and Julie, the interior designer, found themselves in the same circles – working for the community in the Junior Auxiliary and learning about serving God in a sweet Bible study group. It just so happened that Kelli’s very favorite house in Thibodaux, a French chateau, had interiors designed by Julie. In addition, both Kelli and Jim and Julie and her husband were high school sweethearts. With so much in common and new to town, the couples were destined to be friends. Soon their friendship expanded to include a working relationship that solidified as Julie helped Kelli and Jim during their initial building of the house and has continued throughout the years. Says Kelli, “When we started off building, we had two children and built in ‘future space’ upstairs, plumbed, heated and cooled, that we could grow into as needed.” During the second renovation, the Worthey boys, now aged 15, 13 and 11, were moved upstairs. Their youngest child, Katherine, also received a room makeover as well. According to Kelli, this is the third major tweak to their home. “My husband is an A+ personality and is very detailed and meticulous. We had contemplated adding an outside area and knew we had a leaking chimney and room in the den
area off the kitchen that needed attention.” The construction started the first week of September last year, and the pool was finished by May. Adds designer Julie, “The bones of this home are so good. I always love it when Kelli calls with a new project or idea.” The couple and Mays brought in Ruston architect Cassidy Keim, who drew up plans for the renovation, adding major livable space to the already generously proportioned home. A screen porch was removed, and the interior living room was expanded. The family lived with temporary plywood walls during the construction phase that separated the construction area from the kitchen. Says the homeowner, “Initially, all I wanted to do was paint the kitchen white and fix the problems we knew about.” In the bright new kitchen, countertops of Taj Mahal quartzite add a lightness to the space. The backsplash tile is a shimmering glass tile, aptly named “Glass Slipper.” Julie amped up the design with a polished chicken wire insert in upper cabinets where there had once been glass. Unique finishes using craft paints layered in pearly silver and champagne tones, craftsman Troy Hart developed rich patinas on the cabinetry and range hood. The island is painted a richer grey to add dimension to the space. Just beyond the kitchen and beneath the back stairwell, a darling half bath gets a Hollywood makeover with a metallic grasscloth wall covering and a metallic vessel sink. An abstract painting by Annie Richardson adds a modern touch. The brick floors of the great room and kitchen are original to the room and were expanded to include the new space. The newly rebuilt fireplace is faced with a glimmering stacked quartzite with a hand-chiseled quartz bench seating at the hearth. On either side of the fireplace a metallic backed cork wall covering adds just a touch of metallic shine behind matching contemporary sideboards on tall legs. Modern abstract art above each sideboard was sourced from a Houston gallery. High backed swivel chairs and a crocodile patterned charcoal velvet sofa with nailhead trim create a cozy conversational area. Julie and Kelli worked in perfect tandem on the project. Says Kelli, “Julie would give me the dimensions for a lamp or colors for a rug, and then I would set out on a search.” WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 141
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here walls had been heavily textured, now they have a soft orange peel effect. Julie chose colors to create a smooth, soft transition from interiors to the outdoor living area. A wall of custom made accordion folding doors open on a track to blur the lines of indoor and outdoor, seamlessly flowing into the outdoor living area, which was constructed by Bryan Beck of Lincoln Outdoor Living. “With the weather cooling,” says Kelli, “we’ve been able to enjoy being outside even more.” An inviting pool was a last minute addition, which has earned its stripes with this active, outdoorsy family. Outdoor furniture and kitchen appliances were sourced from Lincoln Outdoor Living. The stained pecky cypress mantel above the outdoor fireplace was a piece the couple had been storing in the attic, which got called into active duty. The cast stone ledge is from Ruston Brick. A pair of contemporary, aerodynamic fans from Stuart Irby and integrated heaters keep the outdoor living area comfortable during Louisiana’s extreme temps. The outdoor space features an outdoor shower with hexagon floor tile. Back inside in the formal living room, an ethereal landscape painting provides a focal point above the room’s fireplace mantel. A gilded etagere is accessorized with beautifully collected objets. A painting by local artist Shelly Neely hangs above a metallic chest. Just beyond the living room are the dining room and foyer. Once a dark space, the bronze colored walls of the dining room see the light with new taupe wall color, “Amazing Grey.” The soaring foyer is painted “Accessible Beige.” “It’s a magical color,” says the designer, “as it takes on whatever it’s near. It’s my very favorite color.” Color is something that Julie understands well. While studying interior design at the University of Arkansas, Julie was privileged to learn color theory from a visiting professor from Harvard. “Nothing helps elevate a design more than color,” says Julie. Another of Julie’s recommendations is to paint risers on stairs a rich black, which can hide a multitude of wear and tear. 142 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
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t the top of the stairs, the teens enjoy the television room with its comfy sectional and state of the art technology. The once dark stained library paneled room gets a mod makeover with a light glaze treatment on the walls. Carpet was removed and oak wood floors were recently added. Six years ago, the couple moved their three boys upstairs, taking in the ‘future space’ to create bedrooms and a bath for them. The boys’ bathroom just received a makeover with a geode-inspired wall covering and all neutral tile. Downstairs, cute little Katherine’s room received a glamorous makeover as well during a mini-renovation a little over two years ago. Deep pink silk plaid curtains add a luxe dimension when paired with soft grey walls layered with a pearlized glaze. In the room’s corner, the “Beauty Chair,” as Katherine calls it, commands attention. The oversized French bergere, which was found at Round Top Antique Far in Texas, is made thoroughly modern with a silvered frame and metallic silver leather upholstery. The soft blue background of the metallic foil wallpaper of the bathroom ups the glam quotient. KK Wilson glazed the bathroom cabinets in a cool grey and counters are an elegant Carerra marble. Drawer pulls are delicate roses. Mirror mounted tole flower sconces provide ample reflected illumination. Kelli’s favorite room in the whole house might just be the sitting room just beyond her bedroom. A silver and gold metallic Hooker credenza is painted with a floral motif and provides wonderful bedroom storage. The four post bed with shell accent was a tenth anniversary present and was sourced by Julie for the couple. The en suite master bath is a jewel of a space with a pearlized wall covering overlaid with a sanded design. No wonder it’s Kelli’s second favorite room. The cabinets are glazed for added dimension. When your designer’s mantra is “function, function, function,” technology is sure to get the nod. The master bathroom gets the luxury hotel treatment with a television hidden behind a two-way mirror. Says the homeowner, “When the boys are away on hunting trips, Katherine and I have fun spa weekends in here.” The designing partnership between Julie Mays and the Wortheys has proven to be a successful one, indeed, that continues to improve upon perfection.
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Nothing Runs Like a Deere 5K
Goldman Equipment Hosts First 5K Charity Race December 10th
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OLDMAN EQUIPMENT IS PROUD TO HOST THEIR first 5K Charity Race. The “Nothing Runs Like a Deere 5K” will be held December 10, 2016 at their West Monroe location (511 Mane Street, West Monroe) next to the Ike Hamilton Expo Center. There will be a Family Fun run at 8 a.m., and the 5K begins at 8:30 a.m. All proceeds will benefit Family Promise of Ouachita, an organization that provides homeless families with stability, so they can get back on their feet and provide their children with a healthy living environment. Come out to support the runners at this family-friendly event. Shop John Deere toys and merchandise for Christmas, and even take a picture with Santa! They have wagons, tractor toys, books, clothes and even a large variety of toys for the grown-ups. Those who sign up for the race will be entered to win a Honda Generator. You don’t want to miss out on this chance to provide for your community while having fun. Sign up on www.racemenu.com/goldman5k, or go to goldmanequipment.com for the link to sign up. Be sure to like
their Facebook page, and let your friends know you will be attending the event. Register by November 28 to receive a t-shirt. Family Fun Run is $20, 5K is $25, and day-of-race sign-up is $35. You can also decide to sleep in, donate and still receive a t-shirt for $20. Goldman Equipment is your hometown Louisiana John Deere dealer. With 13 locations in North and Central Louisiana, it’s easy to access. They believe in upholding core values that have helped forge a long-lasting and mutually beneficial partnership with large and small agriculture, commercial, residential and governmental customers; and giving back to our local organizations will help the community and relationships within our communities. The holidays are a time for giving, so stop by December 10th and bring the family to support our community at 511 Mane St. in West Monroe. Feel free to call (318) 387-5534, or check out our Facebook page for any questions you may have. We hope to see you there! Happy Holidays from Goldman Equipment!
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Seek the Unique
The Eccentric Vintage Market Offers Antiques, Boutique Items, Handmade Gifts and More!
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ESTLED ON THE CORNER OF OLD HIGHWAY 15 and Cheniere Drew Road sits a little hidden treasure filled with eclectic finds. The Eccentric is your number one stop this year for holiday gift giving. Their abundant selection of vintage, handmade and new items are sure to fit someone on your list. The Eccentric has over 40 vendors including artists, crafters, pickers and more. Walking up to the front doors, you’ll find vintage furniture and handmade goods. Once you’re inside, there is a plethora of items to choose from: handmade baby bibs and clothing, boutique clothing with popular brands like Umgee, baby gifts, organic skin care made from locally produced lavender and much more. It’s easy to get lost in the aisles, as you peruse through collectibles, antique furniture, oddities and unique pottery. There is an entire section devoted to vintage furniture including midcentury modern pieces and refurbished, painted pieces that have a farmhouse flair. The Eccentric also offers local jellies, salsa and food mixes – which are great for gift-giving or hosting holiday affairs. There are floral arrangements and even a local screen printer with community-minded t-shirts. This is not your usual “flea market,” it’s a hidden gem right here in Northeast Louisiana. Make sure to like their Facebook page for updates on special events, paint parties and craft classes. These fun, interactive classes require no experience or artistic capabilities – just the desire to have a good time and do something creative. Talented instructors will bring the supplies, all you have to do is join the party. Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 26th from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. as The Eccentric hosts their Claus for Celebration Christmas Kickoff Sale. These extended hours will allow patrons to shop the special savings found throughout the store. The Eccentric is located at 1131 Old Hwy 15 in West Monroe, right across from Drew Elementary School. They are open Wednesday thru Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended holiday hours on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. starting November 6th. Make sure to like their Facebook page today, and as always, seek the unique at The Eccentric.
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New Treatment Options Introducing the InterStim® System for Bladder and Bowel Control
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LADDER AND BOWEL CONTROL PROBLEMS INCLUDE A range of embarrassing and potentially debilitating health issues. Urinary urge incontinence and urgency-frequency, both symptoms of overactive bladder, are pervasive medical conditions with potentially disturbing social, sexual, interpersonal and professional consequences. Fecal incontinence is another devastating, socially isolating problem for which people are often reluctant to seek medical attention. While people may delay seeking help for bladder and bowel control problems, they are highly treatable. Sacral neuromodulation delivered by the Medtronic InterStim® system is a proven treatment option that helps to control the symptoms of overactive bladder (urgency-frequency and urge incontinence), (non-obstructive) urinary retention and chronic fecal incontinence (inability to control the bowels). The InterStim system, the world’s first sacral neuromodulation therapy, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of urinary urge incontinence in 1997, (non-obstructive) urinary retention and urinary urgency-frequency in 1999 and chronic fecal incontinence in 2011. InterStim Therapy is now used for both urinary control and bowel control in many geographies, including the United States, throughout Europe, Canada and Australia. To date, more than 125,000 people have received InterStim Therapy worldwide. HOW THE INTERSTIM SYSTEM WORKS Treatment with the InterStim system involves three steps: evaluation, a minimally invasive surgical implant and ongoing postimplant follow-up appointments. ▪ Evaluation: The test stimulation process begins with an in-office or outpatient procedure to place a lead (thin wire) near the tailbone, which is taped to the skin and connected to a small external device that sends mild electrical pulses to the sacral nerves using an external stimulator. The patient typically wears the external stimulator for several days to determine if he/she is likely to benefit from InterStim Therapy. • Outpatient Surgical Implant: Following a successful trial, the InterStim system is implanted under the skin during a minimally invasive procedure. The InterStim system consists of a thin wire lead and a neurostimulator, or pacemaker-like device, as well as external clinician and patient programmers. The neurostimulator, about the size of a stopwatch, is implanted under the skin in a minimally invasive outpatient procedure in the upper buttock near the sacral nerves, which are involved in the control of bladder function. The InterStim system then delivers mild electrical pulses to stimulate the sacral nerves and help manage bladder and bowel incontinence symptoms. ▪ Post-Implant: Following the implant procedure, the patient can control the neurostimulation intensity within physician-set parameters using an external patient programmer that works like a remote control to turn the stimulation up and down or on and off. Follow-up examinations usually occur every six to 12 months. Dr. Robert Marx has been implanting the Medtronic Sacral Neuromodulator since 2009 and has helped hundreds of patients with their bladder and bowel control problems. He is a board certified urologist, who has been practicing in his home town since 1989. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 149
Daniel Cummins Returns to Monroe
Campbell, House & Cummins Welcomes Daniel Cummins, Family Law Attorney, Back to Monroe
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FTER SERVING IN THE ARMY FOR EIGHT YEARS, Daniel Cummins returned to Monroe with his wife, Sarah, and their two daughters, Mary Elise and Louise Lelia. Daniel grew up in the Swartz area of Monroe with his parents Percy and Lisa, and his siblings Damion and Tiffany. He attended Ouachita Parish High School and Claiborne Christian School. After high school, Daniel obtained a degree in legal studies from the University of Louisiana at Monroe before attending Mississippi College School of Law. Daniel excelled academically in law school, earning the highest grade in both his Trial Advocacy and Negotiations courses. Daniel was also elected to serve as the Student Body President. After law school, Daniel commissioned in the United States Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps and began his service as an attorney for the Army. Daniel’s initial assignment was with the 1st Cavalry Division in Fort Hood, Texas. Daniel deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, as a legal assistance attorney just three weeks after the completion of his training. In his capacity as a legal assistance attorney, Daniel helped deployed soldiers with issues ranging from divorce, child custody, child support, contract disputes and real
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estate transactions. It was during this time that Daniel’s passion for family law developed. Many of the young soldiers were away from their families for the first time, dealing both with the stress of being in a combat zone and with family issues back home. After returning from Iraq, Daniel had subsequent assignments as an operational law attorney in Afghanistan, a legal advisor to a Special Forces unit in Japan and a prosecutor in Hawaii. As a prosecutor, Daniel gained invaluable courtroom experience through the prosecution of crimes ranging from espionage to sexual assault. During his time in uniform, Daniel counseled over a thousand soldiers on legal issues relating to child custody, divorce and property disputes. He has seen the emotional toll that these matters can have on a person, and he is passionate about helping people work through their difficulties. He has the education, training and experience to handle any situation. Now that he is back in Monroe, he looks forward to bringing this experience and passion to our community.
Excellent Service at Carwash West You Are in Good Hands at Carwash West
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ASTROL PREMIUM LUBE EXPRESS at Carwash West is one of Castrol’s select privately owned quick lubes. Castrol evaluates their select quick lubes on a regular basis to ensure that the highest standards are met. Their AOCA certified lube techs have the knowledge and expertise to keep your vehicle performing at factory recommended specifications. Castrol Premium Lube Express services foreign and domestic vehicles alike. You can trust their lube techs to let you know what services are due for your vehicle by mileage and from visual inspection. Their techs will alert you to which services are critical, from a nail in your tire to an extremely worn belt. They price the services they offer, so that you can compare with other shops. They do not pressure sell; they just give you the information you need to make a decision. Carwash West’s services are reported
to CarFax, which offers a free smart phone app. This app allows CarFax to notify you when services are due for each of your cars. They even will let you know when your registration is due. They are a state inspection station and also provide windshield crack repair on site. On rainy days when the carwash is closed, they provide a wash raincheck for their lube customers. Carwash West offers lube packages for people on-the-go, whether you need the bare minimum or the works. Carwash West also provides a variety of wash options which includes full service, hand washes, detail services and exterior express. “We guarantee you a clean car that meets your expectations. If there is an area of your vehicle that needs special attention, let us know, and we will take care of it for you,” comments Ross Thompson. Their professional
and courteous car wash attendants are ready to make your car look its best. They are here to pamper you and your vehicle with the award winning service you deserve, just relax inside at Café ExpressO. Carwash West has a VIP Rewards Club that offers a 48-hour clean car guarantee, (exterior wash in the event of rain, bird droppings, etc.), every 10th wash free, 15% discount when returning within 15 days and FREE birthday wash. They can also customize a monthly or yearly plan for your vehicle. Mrs. Salina has been the greeter for Carwash for close to 20 years. She is wellknown in the community for her positive attitude and her very accurate memory. After you have driven through Carwash West once, she is likely to remember you and what your preferences are. Carwash West is unique in that where most automotive businesses can be intimidating to women, they provide a comfortable, non-threatening atmosphere. They offer Ladies Day every Wednesday, where ladies receive 20% off car wash services. Their main objective is to spoil you. It is like a spa service for your car. Their goal is to meet your needs and give you a great place to relax while you wait. For pricing or more information, check out www.carwashwestmonroe.com.
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Modern Castle at a Great Price 342 Lea Drive in West Monroe
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AKE ONE LOOK AT THIS ELABORATELY DETAILED home, located on a small country road in West Monroe, and one won’t believe what they are asking for it. It is the definition of architectural elegance. Inspired by Acadian and European styles, this spacious, three bedroom, three and a half bath home is truly one-of-akind. It sits on a tailored 4.8 acre lot with a view of the private pond. The beautifully designed, fully-equipped outdoor kitchen and pool area is the perfect place to entertain guests. The landscaped yard comes not only with the spacious waterfront gazebo, but a lavish fountain. An exquisite stone pathway leads from the home’s front property down to the gazebo that overlooks the pond, where one can enjoy the quiet, tranquil sounds of nature this hidden treasure has to offer. Entering the front door of the home, one will take notice of arched ceilings and wood floors that flow throughout the living area, dining room and kitchen. The kitchen is adorned with breathtaking light fixtures, a brick accent wall and a large island that is complete with sink and granite countertops. Its open floor plan makes it ideal for hosting and serving guests for any occasion. Leading outside to the pool, exquisitely detailed frames line the doors in both the kitchen and living area, setting an elegant tone to each of the rooms. A large brick arch separates the kitchen from the living room, matching the brick used in the kitchen. The same brick continues throughout the house to the hearth that frames the fireplace emphasizing the vaulted ceiling in the living area. Across the ceiling, wood rafters pair well with the wrought iron candle chandelier and wide plank wood floors creating an Old English feel to the sizable living space. This whimsical design will make one want to curl up by the fireplace with loved ones while the framed glass doors provide a perfect view to the patio. Every detail of this home complements the other and creates a seamless flow inside and out. The creative usage of brick and wood provide an artistic and historical style to the home fit for royalty. It’s a buyer’s dream come true! Priced well below market appraisal, you’ll have plenty of room to make this property your own. A home this exquisite deserves someone who can truly appreciate its beauty and how special this home really is. Call Jason Thomas, a realtor with John Rea, at 318-884-4121 or feel free to email him at jasonthomas@ johnrearealty.com and this one-of-kind home could be yours.
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Holiday Shopping at Lewis’ Gifts Holiday Open House Set for Saturday, November 19th
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OR OVER 75 YEARS,THE LEWIS FAMILY HAS BEEN A part of Shreveport, Louisiana’s retail community. Walk through the doors of Lewis’ Gifts, and you will find an exquisite showroom filled with unique finds. The items they stock include but are not limited to: • Louisiana-made items • Fine linens • Loungewear • Jewelry and accessories • Home fragrances • Tabletop • Bath and body • Home accessories • Baby • Silk florals • Kitchenware • Exclusive collections of ladies’ clothing Lewis’ Gifts is known for their exceptional service and bridal registry, which has served customers throughout the South. They carry the brands you love such as Jon Hart, Niven Morgan, Vietri, Juliska and Bella Notte bedding. Pre-order sales are going on now for Vietri Old St. Nick. Purchase your Old St. Nick pieces now and receive 15% OFF through November 10th. Leave your purchases to be signed and personalized by Master Artisan Stefano Roselli at our Vietri Event on Nov. 10! Don’t miss Vietri’s last artisan signing event! They make great wedding, anniversary, Christmas or birthday gifts! Plan to stay for lunch! Biscotti’s is located inside Lewis’ Gifts and offers a delectable menu with something to delight every taste. Catering and Meals-to-Go are also available offering sandwich trays, casseroles, sides, salads, dessert trays, soups, pies and cakes! They will do the cooking for you – for small families all the way up to large parties! Lewis’ Gifts 5807 Youree Dr. • Shreveport, LA www.lewisgifts.com 318-868-6700 Find them on Facebook and Instagram by searching “Lewis’ Gifts”
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The Mother Hen Children’s and Gift Boutique Something for Everyone on Your List!
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HE HOLIDAYS ARE QUICKLY approaching and The Mother Hen has everything you need to help you start ticking off boxes on your to-do list. Whether you are looking for classic Christmas attire, holiday-themed pajamas or traditionally hand-smocked outfits, The Mother Hen will have your children looking precious for the holidays. Our brother/sister sets are sure to make your family picture-perfect for your Christmas card. Our holiday outfits embellished with pumpkins, turkeys, Santa and reindeer will have your little one perfectly dressed for their classroom party, pictures with Santa or that annual family get together. We have outfits that range from the playful knit to the sweet smocking in sizes newborn to 6T.
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Make a new tradition by dressing the whole family in matching pajamas. There’s nothing more precious than preserving Christmas morning memories with the family dressed in fun, festive pj’s. Looking to decorate your home in classic Christmas essentials? The Mother Hen has has tree skirts, stockings and more. Great gifts abound from Christmas frames to burlap Santa bags and ornaments for the kids. We also have party dishes to help you host the perfect get-together and Santa’s cookie sets to help you get ready for Jolly Old Saint Nick’s arrival. The Mother Hen has gifts for everyone on your list. We offer unique gift options that will make it easy to buy for “Secret Santa” or for the one that has everything. Custom appliqués and monogramming
are available, so get your orders in quickly as everyone loves to personalize things this time of year. Either bring in your items or find one of our cute customizable shirts or outfits and we’ll make them holiday ready. Don’t forget that The Mother Hen also offers a baby registry for expecting moms. We have all the essentials for newborns, precious Paty gowns, layettes, diaper bags, baby bedding, WubbaNubs, BabyShushers and much more are available to choose from. The Mother Hen is located at 115 Cotton Street in West Monroe, right off Antique Alley. Find us on Facebook or call us today at 318.570.5993.
Your Destination for Holiday Shopping
Sue Paperie Offers Stationery, Greeting Cards, Gifts and More
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ITH THE HOLIDAYS JUST AROUND THE CORNER, Sue Paperie is here to make your holiday shopping less stressful. If you’re looking for just the right items, our friendly staff will help you choose from a selection of invitations, stationery, greeting cards, gifts and much more. Make Sue Paperie your destination for holiday shopping in historic Downtown Ruston. HOLIDAY CARDS Finding the perfect holiday card can be overwhelming, but at Sue Paperie we will guide you to the perfect card for your family. Our assortment of brands and styles from ornate to beautifully simple is sure to provide a card that will match your taste. If you’re unable to meet the November deadline for custom card orders, we will happily personalize any of our stock holiday cards. MAKE IT PERSONAL Receiving a thoughtful gift for Christmas is a joy, but having that gift personalized makes it truly special. Treat that special someone to the personalized American made quality of a Jon Hart
bag or the beauty of a one-of-a-kind journal from Claire Magnolia. Don’t forget to get something special for the teachers in your life. Choose from a number of gifts that Ann Page will monogram to create a unique and personal treasure. GIFTS Have an art lover on your list? Treat them to a one of a kind painting from the talented Buffy Walker. If you aren’t sure what you are looking for, we have many other great gifts to choose from by your favorite companies like Lilly Pulitzer, Kate Spade and Emily Ley! Sue Paperie is your local destination for unique and personalized gifts for every person on your holiday shopping list this year. Make your gifts stand out under the tree. Come see us at 112 West Park Avenue in Downtown Ruston.
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Your Next Fine Jewelry Purchase
Dupont Jewelers Has a Wide Selection Just in Time for the Holidays!
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CQUIRING A NEW PIECE OF FINE JEWELRY HAS never been easier. We, at Dupont Jewelers, offer you many options for that next special jewelry purchase, just in time for the holidays. TRADE If you have a piece of jewelry that has gone out of style, simply trade your piece for a new style. Simple and easy! We have a showcase full of jewelry, and you’re sure to find something new you will love. RESTORE If you like the styling of your piece, we can restore it to like new condition by redefining details that have worn off, re-tipping or rebuilding settings, replacing the shank of the ring, or re-engraving worn engraving. We work with Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum and Silver. All work is done in-house. REDESIGN Redesigning your piece using your diamonds and colored stones which you already own is another option. We create designs by a process called “Handmade.” No piece is ever the same. We use solid gold metal that has been rolled and work-hardened into wire or flat karat stock. This metal is very dense and hard, so it doesn’t scratch, bend or dent likes most commercial jewelry. It can be polished to a higher gloss finish due to the hardness of the metal. We bend, drill, solder, polish and engrave the pieces we
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make. We call this “Generational Jewelry,” because it will truly last generations. This hand-crafted process will ensure your jewelry inheritance can be passed down for generations. SELL The last option we offer is: we will make you an offer to purchase your diamonds and jewelry regardless of their condition. We buy old jewelry, new jewelry, gold and silver coins, and large and small diamonds. The Holidays can be expensive, so this is a great way to have extra funds to give your family the Christmas they deserve. We are local, and we love what we do. Each ring is fashioned to create a custom fit for your finger. My customers often comment on how well their ring fits and the beautiful luster of the metal. Every custom piece of jewelry is created with the customer in mind. Creating jewelry in this nostalgic process is very rewarding to me as a jeweler. We love giving our customers a one-of-a-kind signature piece designed specifically from their style and taste of jewelry. Trade – Restore – Redesign — Sell Dupont Jewelers on Forsythe in Monroe
A Free Birds Holiday Free Birds Boutique
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OLIDAY SHOPPING HAS BEGUN AT FREE BIRDS Boutique on Antique Alley in West Monroe. Come by on November 6th to Free Birds Boutique’s annual Holiday Open House. Food, drinks, music and shopping make for the perfect Sunday afternoon. With an easy location on Antique Alley, our little shop has a charm and magical feel to it that we would love to share with you. We have plenty of small, fun items that would make great gifts. We can help make shopping for the holidays fun! It’s the most wonderful time of year for chunky sweaters, boots and pumpkin spice. As the cool weather comes, so does cool clothes and style. Lightweight sweater shirts are perfect for a Louisiana Christmas. Add a jacket or a plaid shirt for some fun layers. We have distressed, classic and print sweaters to accommodate any style. Everyone loves a bootie! We have a new shipment of shoes in, and we know you’re going to love ‘em! With one of the best assortments of shoes around, we are sure to have the boot you’re looking for. A good shoe can make any outfit.
Any wardrobe needs a good pair of jeans. Jeans can be dressy, casual, fun and comfy. Jeans can work with generally anyone’s style. We have flared jeans to boot cut, distressed jeans to highwaisted. We can dress every woman’s best assets! This is the best time of year to revamp your style! Free Birds Boutique is getting winter shipments in daily. This season step out of your box with a simple statement piece and be the most trendy you can possibly be. If you want a style that is different than everyone else, then this is where you need to be. Don’t just follow the herd; lead the pack! Stop by for the Holiday Open House, and see why our little shop on the corner is fun and fabulous. Our little nook on Antique Alley has a uniqueness that expresses just how much we love what we do. WE ARE LOCAL, WE SUPPORT LOCAL. Find us online at shopfreebirdsboutique.com | Instagram | Facebook. 318.348.2200
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This is her story.
“No one knows what happened that morning at River Point. Five boys went hunting. Four came back. The boys won’t say who fired the shot that killed their friend, Grant; the evidence shows it could have been any one of them.” So begins the synopsis on the cover of Ashley Elston’s new book, “This Is Our Story,” a legal thriller that Kirkus Reviews deems “Chilling and suspenseful, with just the right number of twists.”
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cheduled for release November 15, 2016, “This Is Our Story” is the tale of the River Point Boys, five teenagers who, after a late night of partying, decide to go hunting. Five boys walk into the woods, and only four come out alive. Because drugs and alcohol are involved, the boys know that they could be held criminally responsible for their friend’s death. There in the woods, the boys make a pact not to disclose the identity of the shooter. The story is told from the perspective of a high school girl who works as an intern in the District Attorney’s office, who has her own reasons for wanting to know what happened that morning, and from the perspective of the shooter, who narrates every other chapter. The story unfolds through these narrative voices and through text messages and transcripts. A legal suspense novel, “This Is Our Story” is written for a younger audience but has cross-over appeal for adults. Growing up in Monroe, Louisiana, Elston never dreamed that one day she would be a published author. “I’ve always been a reader. I love to read and will read anything that I can get my hands on,” she says, “but writing was never something I did or even thought about doing.” Though she may not have set out to become a writer, Elston is now the acclaimed author of three young adult novels, all published by Hyperion, an imprint of Disney Book Group. Her debut novel, “The Rules for Disappearing,” released in 2013, was chosen as a finalist for the International Thriller Writers Best Young Adult Novel Award in 2014. It has been translated into Dutch and German. Last year, “The Rules for Disappearing” was optioned for film by Shorelight Pictures of New York, and the screenplay is currently in production. “I still have to pinch myself sometimes,” Elston says of her literary success. She recalls her first trip to New York after receiving the nomination for Best Young Adult Novel. She and her husband, Dean, attended the awards dinner and visited the offices of Disney-Hyperion to meet with her editors. She remembers thinking, “I can’t believe I’m here.” Elston and Dean, her husband of over twenty years, live in Shreveport with their three sons, aged 16, 14 and 8. A Monroe native, she graduated from Neville High School and attended what is now the University of Louisiana at Monroe for one year before transferring
article by Kay Stothart Rector photography by Martin G Meyers to LSU-Shreveport to be with Dean. She tried to pursue a career in nursing and was heartbroken when she was not accepted into nursing school. Looking back, she realizes what a blessing that disappointment was for her. While her children were young, Elston developed her interest in photography into a successful business, working as a wedding photographer. “At that time in our lives, it was ideal, because wedding photography is mainly weekend work. I was able to be at home during the week, and Dean could be with the boys on the weekends, while I worked.” However, after their third child was born and the older boys became more and more active, she found that she was missing out on a big part of their lives. So many things happen on the weekends—soccer games, birthday parties—that she wanted to be present for. Taking a break from professional photography in order to be a stay at home mom, she took over the bookkeeping for her husband’s landscaping business. Elston says that while she enjoyed doing that and being at home with her boys, she found that she missed having a creative outlet. It was then that she began to write. The manuscript of her very first book is, Elston says, “in a drawer, where it will stay forever.” She refers to it as her “practice book.” “It wasn’t very good, but it was good practice. It contains a lot of my personal story that I don’t know if I would ever want to share or have published.” Although that attempt did not lead to publication, it did confirm for Elston that writing a book was possible for her. The idea for “The Rules of Disappearing” began with the opening scene that Elston says she visualized, without really knowing what it meant or where that story might be going. “As a photographer, I’m very visual. I have to see my scenes, before I can write them. If I can see it, I can write it.” Elston says that she kept picturing a teenage girl in a tiny bathroom with a bare lightbulb, cutting and dying her hair, having to change her appearance. She wasn’t sure why, but she knew that there was a story there. That vision ultimately became “The Rules for Disappearing,” the tale of a teenage girl whose family has entered the federal Witness Protection Program. “There was something different about that book,” remembers Elston. “It just sort of fell out of me. I could not write it fast enough. Every moment that I could find to write, I did. I would write until I WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 159
had to pick up the kids from school, and after everyone was in bed, I would stay up late and write.” She finished writing “The Rules for Disappearing” in less than eight weeks. Although it was very rough, Elston says she felt she had created something that someone might actually want to read. She spent the summer of 2011 researching the publication process and trying to find an agent to represent her book. She received a lot of rejections and learned that the road to publication is, as she says, “not a fun process.” Despite those disappointments, by the end of that summer Sarah Davies of Greenhouse Literary Agency had agreed to represent her. Davies is a former London editor who had been Elston’s top pick when researching potential agents. Choosing Davies as her agent was, Elston says, “one of the best decisions I have ever made.” While Davies loved the manuscript, she insisted that it could be better and set Elston to work on revisions. “I went through two rounds of revisions with Sarah,” she recalls, which involved multiple phone conferences and a lot of long hours. When Davies broke the news to Elston that Disney-Hyperion had expressed an interest in “The Rules for Disappearing,” she was thrilled. Davies told her that they loved her story and that “they see where you’ve left it open for a sequel. What do you think the sequel will be about?” Elston says she had no idea, because she never intended for there to be a sequel. “I just left the ending open, because I thought it was funny,” Elston told her. However,
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“For the first time, I was writing something that I knew was going to be published ”
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lston suddenly found that she had a sequel to write, with due dates and deadlines and lots of expectations from the well-known publishing company. Completion of “The Rules for Breaking” followed quickly. Elston feels especially proud of the sequel, because it was, she says, “probably the hardest thing I have ever written.” Already under contract and with only three months to finish the project, she worked furiously. She jokes that her kids “ate a lot of pizza” during those three months. She recalls being under tremendous pressure that did not exist as she wrote her first story. “For the first time, I was writing something that I knew was going to be published,” Elston says. With expectations looming, she was afraid of disappointing everyone. “I still don’t know how I did that.” Like the writing itself, Elston says her focus on young adult fiction “just sort of happened.” Her stories seemed always to develop from the perspective of a teenaged protagonist. That continued to be true as she approached themes for her next novel. The idea for Elston’s third book came to her as she was sitting in the kitchen of her home, talking with friend and fellow YA author Elle Cosimano. Cosimano was in Shreveport to visit and travel with Elston to New Orleans for a book festival. They were discussing book ideas when Elston’s mother, Sally Ditta, called, complaining that she had been summoned for jury duty. Elston begin to recount to Cosimano tales of working in the Monroe law office of her father, Tony Bruscato, as a teenager. Like most of her Catholic family, Elston attended Catholic school the majority of her life, but her senior year she decided to transfer with some of her friends to the much larger public high school. As a senior at Neville High School, she was able to leave early each day on a “work pass” for a job in her father’s law office. Bruscato is a trial lawyer and had a jury trial that year. Part of her job was helping prepare that case for trial, which Elston says she found fascinating. As Elston talked about her teenaged experiences working in and learning about the legal system, Cosimano looked at her and said “that’s your next book.” The two writers started brainstorming and batting around ideas as they traveled to New Orleans and back to Shreveport. Somewhere along the way, Elston says, “This Is Our Story” was born. Elston drew on her memories as she created protagonist Kate Marino, a high school senior whose internship with the District Attorney’s office lands her right in the middle of the drama surrounding the prosecution of the River Point Boys. However, Elston is quick to point out that all of the characters in “This Is Our Story” are purely fictional, as are the high schools, St. Bart’s and Marshall, and the Louisiana town of Belle Terre. She admits that she enjoyed imagining and writing about these characters, some of whom are extremely corrupt. “It was fun to write, because these characters are so bad,” she says. “They are definitely not based on anyone I know.”
One day early in the writing process, Elston called her father to consult with him about some of the legal aspects of her storyline. He happened to be at the courthouse, waiting to go into court and handed the phone to Michael Fontenot, an assistant district attorney, who was sitting next to him. Although she and Fontenot had never met, Elston began asking him questions about criminal law and the “crime” she was crafting. “Mike was so helpful,” Elston says. “I called on him at least once a week, as I was writing the first draft.” She notes that even with Fontenot’s input, “I took some liberties with the law, as you always do in fiction. Any mistakes in legal procedure are all mine.” Elston received advice from her husband and sons, who are avid hunters, about all things hunting and outdoors. She says that she also got occasional admonitions from her sixteen year old, who was quick to set her straight whenever her teenage jargon did not ring true. “No one says that, Mom,” was something she heard more than once during the writing process. Looking back, Elston sees the many ways that her own life and experiences are reflected in her stories. None of her books are even remotely autobiographical, yet she notes, “You cannot help but have your own life influence your writing.” Like Elston’s earlier novels, “This Is Our Story” is a great read for teens as well as adults, with a fascinating storyline, suspenseful plot and unexpected ending. It is available for pre-order through Amazon and Barnes and Noble and will appear on bookstore shelves beginning November 15, 2016. For more information visit www.ashleyelston.com and follow Ashley Elston on Twitter and Facebook. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 161
North Delta Food & Wine Festival
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Food and beverage enthusiasts gathered on October 7th to celebrate the second annual North Delta Food and Wine Festival. Presented by Progressive Bank, the festival showcased the talents of local chefs, as well as visiting culinary artists. Proceeds benefitted the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council and its affiliates, the Monroe Symphony Orchestra, the Masur Museum of Art and the Twin City Ballet. The festival kicked off Friday night with the “Rare Culinary Collaboration,” a three-hour tasting extravaganza featuring foods created by over thirty Southern chefs. Award-winning chef Cory Bahr, named “People’s Best New Chef” by Food and Wine magazine, served as emcee for the evening. Guests had the chance to sample each chef’s offerings at booths and displays set up throughout the West Monroe Convention Center. A variety of fine wines and craft beers were also be available for sampling. Later that evening, ticketholders had an opportunity to mingle with their favorite chefs as the party moved to Nonna in Monroe’s Garden District.
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On the BayouScene 1 Lisa Sitko and Julie Samalter 2 Patty Stewart and Cynthia Thardin 3M ary Linda McCann and Kelly McDaniel 4 Sara Garder, Sean Hamilton and Olivia Pruett 5 E ric and Pam Maunz and Sherie and Mark Anyan 6 Sharon and Dan Gibson 7 Tommy Usrey and Georgia Street 8 Ashley and Frederick West 9C lint Downing, Courtney and Zeke Wetzell, Al and Camille Peterson 10 D oug and Regina Wood, Susan Erskine, Amy Beder and Paulen Luttgeharm 11 Lauren and Heath Davis 12 Kari McDonald and Kacie Beebe 13 Callie and Madison Harrell 14 Lacey Stinson and Caroline Youngblood 15 Arabella Moore and Janelle Snellings 16 Katharine Wall and Renata Rushing 17 Mike and Dee Nickels 18 Ginger Valentine-Guimbellot and Jason Davis 19 Sammy Nagem and Cheft John Peters 20 Chef Thurman Dickey and Clay McLaughlin 21 Cassie Livingston, Sarah McElroy and Trent Livingston 22 Dana McBride, Heather Smith and Karen Bennett 23 Tommy Usrey, Logan Parker and Renee Williams 24 Aleta Eley and Jordan Haedick 25 Regina Wood and Barry Stevens 26 Sarah and Chris McElroy 27 Clelie Stone and Tommy Usrey 162 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
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Villages on Tower Ribbon Cutting A Ribbon Cutting and Open House for The Villages on Tower was held on Thursday, October 20th. This new office condominium boasts 13 offices and is located next to Homeland Bank at 2551 Tower Drive. Guests were treated to hors d’oeuvres and drinks while Mack Anderson, president of J and M Properties, gave tours of the expansive office spaces available. Constructed by notable builder, Joe Holyfield, these condominiums offer a premier location, impeccable design and modern utilities at an affordable price.
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Chris Holyfield and James Moore Mike Vining, Jamie Mayo and Tom Janaway A dam Greene and Justin Mailhes J ake Ashley, Dixie Albritton, Austin Jans and Penny Roberson C hris Holyfield, Jason McDonald, Joe Holyfield, Burl Masters, Allison Ford, Brad Boyd and Brian Green 6R ibbon Cutting Ceremony 7 Billy Haddad and Justin Higdon 8 Katie Southern, Diana Grant and Cindy Carroll 9D ebbie Mixon, Nancy Shlosman, Linda Anderson and Janice Maroney
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A New You for the Holidays Tummy Tucks an Option for Smoother, Firmer Abdomen
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F IT’S A SMOOTHER, FIRMER TUMMY YOU WANT, YOU may consider abdominoplasty. After all, of the 1.7 million cosmetic surgical procedures done in 2015, 127,976 of those were tummy tucks. That’s a 9 percent increase over 2014 numbers, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. “There is a misconception sometimes that loose abdominal skin will be taken up by exercise or diet,” said Stephan Maguire, M.D., a plastic surgeon in Alexandria, La., at Rapides Women’s and Children’s Hospital. “There’s no salve or lotion that will address loose skin or stretch marks. You don’t want to waste time and money on those. But with an abdominoplasty, you always see results.” Patients who choose abdominoplasty often have loose skin across the lower abdomen occurring after pregnancy or weight loss. The outpatient surgery usually takes about two hours and requires 3-4 weeks for recovery. “The recovery, that’s the big thing with this surgery,” Dr. Maguire said. “With other cosmetic procedures, you can be back at work after a long weekend. With this one, recovery does take weeks, but the results are worth it.” Since the surgery requires removal of access fat and skin across the lower abdomen – and occasionally, the surgical restoration of weakened or separated abdominal muscles - there is an incision from hip to hip. There is also a scar. But Dr. Maguire is able to position the incision scar in a way that still allows patients to wear swimsuits and hip-hugging fashions. In some cases, patients schedule an abdominoplasty along with other cosmetic procedures, such as a breast augmentation or liposuction. And if your plastic surgeon and OB/GYN work in the same facility, abdominoplasty could also be done in conjunction with a hysterectomy – so the patient only has to plan for one “recovery” instead of two. “There are immediate results,” Dr. Maguire said. “There will be some swelling. But at three months, patients will be able to enjoy a beach vacation.” When planning a visit to the plastic surgeon for your abdominoplasty consultation, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, know that surgery costs can vary widely. The total cost will include surgeon fees, hospital fees, anesthesia fees, medical tests, medications and post-surgery garments. The office staff will be able to give you an accurate estimate of the final cost, and can help set up an affordable payment schedule. Also, know that not everyone will be a good candidate for the surgery. Abdominoplasty patients must be physically healthy, at a stable weight, be a non-smoker and have realistic expectations. And finally, ask questions. Find out how long YOUR recovery will be and what you can do to make sure you get the best possible results. “There is a high rate of patient satisfaction with abdominoplasty,” Dr. Maguire said. “This is one of those issues where surgery is the only solution.” For more information about abdominoplasty with Dr. Maguire, call (318) 442-5800 or visit rapidesregionalphysiciangroup.com
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ENJOYING THE LITTLE THINGS Continued from Page 10 as the cheerleaders standing on the track. This same little fan sits in his chair and sings every song to the top of his lungs (and very much on key), whether it’s “The National Anthem” or “Who Let The Dogs Out.” This same little fan asks constant questions about the game, the plays, the players, the referees and stays just as engaged in the game as the fans sitting all around him. Recently, in one of those split second instances, you know, the kind that gives your life’s perspective a douse of reality, this writer was thunderstruck (another word that makes me smile when I type it). That same perspective, the one that gets so caught up in the trauma and drama of everyday life, well, it got a little clearer…a little louder… and certainly, a little humbler. For there lying on the bleacher, stretched out like he was ready to stargaze, one of my best friends and I watched this same little fan participate in this exciting game through the eyes, and the sounds and the emotions of everyone sitting around him. As he lay on the bleacher, he would use his little white cane to tap to the
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beat of the music; or to cheer on his beloved team; or to scream at the referees to “MOVE THE CHAINS, MOVE THE CHAINS.” Sandy and I were especially moved to tears when he joined in to sing the school’s fight song, and said “This is my favorite part.” For you see, this precious child, who may not have the same “gift” as me, or Sandy, or you readers, to “see” the world in the same light, in the same way we do, used his disadvantage to show me that his “gift” of hearing was all he needed to “see” what we were seeing; to enjoy what we were enjoying; and to be part of what we were a part of. I’ve thought about that moment in my life quite often over the past month, when life’s circumstances seemed somewhat unfair or when I thought my problems were bigger than the stadium I was sitting in that night. And I’ve started to pray that that poignant moment will stay with me for a long time, because what it has made me realize is that I am indeed a very fortunate young (okay, somewhat young) woman. I am grateful to have the gift of sight, but what I should strive
for is having the gift of perspective and being able to make the important things in my life, such as my family, my friends, my church, my priority; rather than letting my “sight” get bogged down by things I can’t control or things that aren’t nearly as important as I sometimes let them be. What about you, readers? Are you with me this holiday season, in just letting your “sight” be set on what we are all so grateful to have? If not, I challenge you to shut your eyes, take a deep breath and think about the last time you experienced a moment of clarity. Or borrow mine, if it’s been a while for you, and allow it the chance to help you sashay (oh, but the really cool words have flowed through this month’s column) into the holiday season with a little bit clearer perspective. Happy Thanksgiving to our wonderful BayouLife nation, may your season be filled with wonderful family, fellowship and also be filled with an “attitude for gratitude.”
A Holiday Open House at Pearce Pharmacy in Bastrop
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HERE IS A FEELING IN THE AIR THAT COMES ONLY once a year. A feeling of joy and happiness that brings loved ones together. Beautiful decorations, lights, music and the smell of a feast cooking in the kitchen. The holidays warm the heart. Watching the parade in the morning, cinnamon rolls baking in the oven for breakfast and a football game on in the background as the children play are just some of the traditions most American families value. This year, we encourage you to start your own family traditions at Pearce Pharmacy. Family owned for 30 years, this conveniently located shop has everything you are looking for this Holiday Season. Decorations are soon to flood the pharmacy with Christmas cheer from wallto-wall. From door hangings to ornaments and place-sets to gifts, Pearce Pharmacy is the best place to get that one-of-a-kind piece for your home. On the second Sunday of November, the 13th, we invite you to dive-in into the Holiday Spirit. Pearce Pharmacy is hosting it’s annual Holiday Open House. The store will be stocked full of gifts suitable for anyone in your family. Pearce Pharmacy has picture frames of all sizes and an entire LSU section. Mississippi Cheese
Straws, Peppered Jelly (mild and hot) and a wide variety of dips make great appetizers for the loved ones who just can’t wait until dinner is ready. An assortment of baby items like blankets, LSU and Maison Chic brand clothes are all available for the expecting mother or newborn. When you just don’t know what to get, ChristmasTee Shirts from Couture Tees and Sweet Tee shirts are an easy, fun gift that anyone would enjoy receiving. Wedding gifts are also accessible! Pearce Pharmacy’s free gift wrapping is just one of the ways they strive to meet your needs and make shopping as easy as possible. Also, their new phone app provides features like; ordering and managing refills for the pharmacy straight from your phone. Just simply search “Pearce Pharmacy” on your mobile device. We wish for you to have the happiest of holidays and hope that the Pearce Pharmacy family can become apart of your family traditions. Happy Thanksgiving and have a Merry Christmas!
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Artoberfest
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On October 21, 2016, area home brewers were on tap to compete for the best brew, as attendees sampled their beers and other micro-brews at the 2016 Artoberfest in Ruston, LA. Over 500 people came together at the Norton Building to support this fundraising event that benefits the North Central Louisiana Art Council. Guests were entertained by local musicians, including Dogberry, Bethany Raybourn, DJ Rick Godley and FunkAmok. Delicious eats were provided by Tacos the Guero, Beaux Jax Cajun Eatery, On’s Hawaiian, Wild Thang Meats and Rosch Bakehaus. Special thanks to the sponsors and patrons for making this event such a success. The funding helps support programs like the NCLAC’s Holiday Arts Tour and the Circuit Film Tour.
On the BayouScene Catherine McVea and Cara Beth Buie Matthew Garcia, Brandon Garcia and Alex Ruhl A llie Bennett and Travis Lee C ash and Emma Melville, Laura and Craig Miller, Chelsea Holbron and Britton McConathy 5B radley Walker, Haley Perot and Ronny Walker 6 Jake Haddox and Julianne Tippen 7 Jason McDonald, Alex Stinchcomb and Clayton Stamm 8 Anna McCarter and Marion Sewell 9M andy Miller, Marisol O’Neal, Chelsea Holbron and Amy Elashry 10 J enna Fincher, Meredith Kavanaugh and Rachel Spencer 11 L eaia Alsup and Tieal Hollimon 12 Taylor Cappe and Holly Odom 13 Hannah Taylor and Hannah Jordan 14 V ictoria Smith, Brandon Garcia and Mashall Smith 15 L aura Hunt Miller and Daniel Moore 16 Jessica and Joey Slaughter
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An Evening with the Stars Benefitting Live Music Performances in our Schools The Louisiana Opera will present a benefit concert in the home of Pam and Bob Stratton on Saturday, November 5, beginning at 7 p.m. The purpose of the performance is to fund professional performances in Monroe area schools for the purpose of education and inspiration. Mark Ross Clark, Director of the Louisiana Opera, comments, ”Many of us who have gone into the performing arts did so because of inspiring professional performances that we witnessed when we were youngsters in school.” The performing guest of honor at the fundraiser will be Laszlo Nagy, whom Clark heard singing in performance in Italy this past July. When Dr. Nagy is not singing, he is one of the leading pediatric neurosurgeons in Texas. His story, from growing up in Hungary to becoming a practicing neuro-surgeon before going into pediatrics, is both interesting and inspiring. The concert will also feature local professional singers who will be performing in Monroe area schools beginning in the spring of 2017. The event will be hosted at the private residence of Pam and Bob Stratton, who live at 3326 Deborah Drive in Monroe. Tickets are $40 each and can be purchased at Fiesta Nutrition Center on North 18th Street in Monroe. The Louisiana Opera is one of only three professional opera companies in Louisiana. It has been in existence since 2012. Mark Ross Clark, Director and Producer, has run the Stockton (CA) Opera company, and has guest directed opera for the Cedar Rapids (IA) Opera, the Roanoke (VA) Opera, the Greensboro (NC) Opera and the university operas of The University of Washington in Seattle, Pacific University and the renowned Indiana University Opera Theater. Clark has also guest directed in Brazil, England and for the National Theater in Taiwan. He continues to teach and direct in Italy, Mexico and Germany. All generation of English “supratitle” projected translations are originated by Clark. For more information about this fundraiser or the Louisiana Opera, contact Mark Ross Clark, Director, at 318-348-1281 or email at thelousianaopera@gmail.com.
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Ruston on the Runway
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As part of Ruston Fashion Week, The Fashion of Ruston held their second annual Ruston on the Runway on October 13. Models walked the runway in the Carriageway adorned in The Fashion of Ruston’s Fall 2016 Collection, as well as The Chartreuse Pear’s 2016 pajama and jewelry collection. Niven Morgan was in the crowd as well as a representative from Joseph Ribkoff. A cocktail reception followed Act One, where attendees enjoyed catering from Crumbs and KaCee’s Sugar and Spice and cold beverages. After the show, guests flocked inside the doors of The Fashion to snag items worn by the models during the event. Proceeds from the evening benefitted the American Heart Association.
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On the BayouScene 1 L inda Reeves, Niven Morgan and Analeise Reeves Thomas 2 Roxann Fallin, Becky Crawford and Camille Rainey 3B arbara Montgomery, Tammy Patterson and Susan Ewing 4 Lindsey Carswell, Sydney Guyotte and Taylor Weeks 5 Jessica Pollard and Jessica Holland 6 Mary Ann Woods, Melinda Maxwell and Grace Tirado 7 Heather and Ronny Walker with Kelly Hogan 8 Joan Edinger and Kate Perot 9 Melanie Lewis, Kennedy Haddox and Tammy Cotes 10 Holly and Lexie Richard 11 Anna Stephens and Tiffany Baldwin 12 Melissa Rowllins, Ashley Wood and Tiphanie Maxwell 13 T heresa Tippen, Sharon Haddox and Claudia Fischer 14 Michelle Jimerson and Deanna McCallum 15 C arolyn Peace, Pat Gillium, Pam Jones and David Hedgepeth 16 Amelia Pauser, Lou Taylor and Alice Goodwin 17 Madison Styron and Missy Amy 10
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P&S Surgical Hosptial P&S Named in Nation’s Top 10% from Healthgrades P&S Surgical Hospital continues to differ dramatically recently received several national among hospitals both nationally accolades from Healthgrades: and regionally. the 2017 Healthgrades Joint The awards represent P&S Replacement Excellence Award, Surgical Hospital’s commitment a five-star rating for total knee to superior surgical outcomes, replacements, and a five-star said Linda S. Holyfield, the rating for total hip replacements. hospital’s president and CEO. P&S is recognized in the “We continue to innovate so nation’s top 10 percent for joint that our patients can experience replacements, which means the most advanced surgical care. hospital patients experience a I am proud of our physicians and LINDA HOLYFIELD lower risk for complications. A medical staff who work to ensure five-star rating indicates that P&S Surgical our hospital delivers outstanding healthcare Hospital clinical outcomes are statistically to northeast Louisiana.” and significantly better than expected when One such innovation is the hospital’s treating the condition or conducting the robotic knee and hip technology. P&S procedure being evaluated. P&S has achieved Surgical Hospital is the region’s first to offer the total knee replacement five-star rating MAKOplasty partial knee resurfacing and since 2010. total hip replacement procedures. The RIO These achievements were released in Robotic Arm Interactive Orthopedic System is the Healthgrades 2017 Report to the Nation, a surgeon-controlled robotic arm system that which demonstrates how clinical performance enables accurate alignment and placement of
implants. This precise and minimally invasive approach means patients will potentially experience less pain, quicker recovery and a more natural fitting knee and hip. ABOUT THE STUDY For its analysis, Healthgrades evaluated approximately 45 million Medicare inpatient records for nearly 4,500 short-term acute care hospitals nationwide, assessing hospital performance relative to each of 32 common conditions and procedures, as well as an evaluation of comparative outcomes in appendectomy and bariatric surgery using all-payer data provided by 18 states. Healthgrades recognizes a hospital’s quality achievements for cohort-specific performance, specialty area performance, and overall clinical quality. Individual procedure or condition cohorts are designated as 5-star (statistically significantly better than expected), 3-star (not statistically different from expected) and 1-star (statistically significantly worse than expected) categories. The complete Healthgrades 2017 Report to the Nation and detailed study methodology, can be found at www.healthgrades.com/quality. P&S Surgical Hospital is a joint venture among physician specialists and St. Francis Medical Center.
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FOR HIS TEMPLE F A M I L Y
article by Claire Shepard
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photos by Martin G Meyers
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f you have recently visited Antique Alley in West Monroe during your lunch hour, you have likely noticed the carfilled parking spots on Wood Street, the sign displaying lunch specials outside a once sparsely traveled block and the influx of people lining up inside Dana Milford’s year old market and cafÊ for her hot lunch specials or to grab a prepared meal from her refrigerated case. For His Temple Family Foods is not only the go-to place for skillfully-prepared, healthy, clean eating options, which are all gluten free, it also doubles as a small market, stocking grass fed Kingsland Ranch beef, Mahaffey Farms pastured meats, local eggs and milk, tasty homemade gluten and dairy free desserts, organic grocery staples, various gluten free items and nutritious drink options to round out your meal.
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When your first meet Dana, and you will if you set foot in her business as she makes a point to know her customers by name, you would never guess she spent 30 years as a mortgage banker before beginning her second career. You would also never guess she has seven grandchildren, but can easily see why she quickly grew tired of retirement as she is full of energy and exudes passion for her newfound profession. Dana’s transition from banking to cooking came shortly after she retired when she and her husband embarked on a 30-day detox eliminating gluten, dairy and sugar from their diets. While the main focus was to lose weight and explore a “clean eating journey,” explained Dana, she found she not only “lost weight” but also “felt amazing.” This began Dana’s research of food and the effects of nutritious, clean eating on your body. “Healthy food doesn’t have to be tofu and salad,” Dana cheerfully clarifies with her obvious passion for her new craft. However, while Dana may be new to the food industry as a way to earn a living she reminisces that she “always loved cooking” and recounts the stories of her once a month family supper clubs, where she would “cook all weekend” to prepare a Sunday dinner for thirty or more family members. In fact, Dana gets teary eyed when explaining how special she felt when her grandmother “passed the family cooking wand” to her when giving Dana a cookbook filled with family recipes and such an inscription. It is almost as if she is just realizing this was her destiny all along, as like many cooks Dana learned the art from her grandmother and eventually turned what she loved into a business. As a corporate America ex pat, it is not surprising Dana approached her new journey with meticulousness, planning and forethought. Like any business minded individual Dana began For His Temple with what she calls a “90 day pilot with 10 families.” For three months, the families purchased only the ingredients while Dana “cooked all the meals” while also “testing containers and portion sizes” she explains. Obviously, the pilot was successful, which led her to approach her friend Kayla Bird, owner of Kayla’s Kitchen, to lease her restaurant kitchen on weekends. It was there that Dana continued to cook all weekend, but this time for customers who would pick up their weekly meals each Monday. This phase of research and development lasted four months until she was able to lease her own business, ironically enough next to Kayla’s Kitchen. Within three months of signing the lease, Dana opened For His Temple Family Foods in September 2015 and has not stopped growing since. In the beginning, Dana stuck with what she tested and admits she simply offered “take-out meals.” After a while she realized she had enough space to have a small market and purchased a few refrigerated cases and shelving units to add items for her health conscious customers to grab and go when they came to purchase their meals. However, it was not long before Dana again got “bored after making the meals,” because she would simply “sit all day” while waiting for her customers. Knowing Dana this had to be the most trying part of the day as she is certainly not a sit-all-day type of person. Therefore, to combat the boredom, she begin offering lunch a few days a week and eventually every day. It wasn’t long before her customers suggested adding a dining room and as Dana, put it, “We’ve ‘organically, pun intended, grown’ into a sit-down café.” Like many small business Dana started the pilot with family and close friends, then began grass roots advertising through Facebook and Instagram, where you will find her daily specials and information about the Community Supported Agriculture boxes (CSA) through Inglewood Farms she offers her customers. And it is truly the customer that Dana values as she explains “our customers are not like other customers.” Whether they have dietary needs, are celiac, gluten intolerant, dairy free or paleo they have “a need or desire” for clean eating. “We have amazing customers,” Dana excitedly announces, as we lament about the lack of customer service in many businesses. Dana not only knows her customers by name, she knows their dietary needs
BAYOU EATS
“HEALTHY FOOD DOESN’T HAVE TO BE TOFU AND SALAD”
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Cindy’s Lasagna and trains her two employees to do the same. “We know our customers, we interact with them and we know their names,” Dana explains. The customer interaction is one of the best parts of her business. One cannot be in her presence long before realizing she is not kidding when she says she “likes the people.”
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uring an already busy weekday lunch where Dana is offering one of her most popular items, oven fried chicken with organic green beans and cabbage, Dana wonders aloud, “How much can I take on at once,” as she is also getting ready for her dining room expansion by moving refrigerators, greeting a new egg vendor, preparing for a photo shoot, assisting customers and launching her newest item which is her take on Lunchables, called Little Temples. While many may think Dana is nuts to open a new dining room and launch the Little Temples on the same day, her mother acknowledges, “That is how you roll.” And roll with it is just what Dana does, as her business has continued to expand in the short time it has been open. While she humbly explains “I don’t know what I’m doing,” it is clear she does and has found a following of customers who value clean, healthy eating and supporting local “farms and food artisans” as does she. By traveling to the farms and doing her “best to use and sell local products,” Dana explains she has been to the farms, met and talked to the farmers and knows how they do what they do. The farmers she selects care about what they are doing, and it is clear Dana does as well, when explaining how much thought and research has gone into her business. Resembling the initial pilot, Dana also piloted the Little Temples before settling on recyclable and reusable interchangeable containers of healthy kid friendly foods, which contain items such as corn dog muffins, pizza bites and carrot 174 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
sticks, all of which are either organic or non-GMO. While you’ll see advertisements for gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian and organic items, don’t think for a minute that the food at For His Temple is the typical attempt at cleaning up the chemical laced processed foods many Americans are accustomed to eating. On any given day you can find a variety of meals in the refrigerated case that range from Mama’s Meatloaf to Cindy’s Lasagna and Ramen Bowls or Cabo Verde Chicken or Pork. Whether it is Southern comfort food, Mexican, Asian or Italian, Dana has you covered. One of her most popular Mexican dishes is her Cabo Verde Pork, which uses salsa made by a local food artisan that is addicting on its own but even more so when Dana turns it into a tasty gravy for local organic pork and brown rice. The slightly spicy thick and flavorful sauce is perfectly complemented by cheesy scalloped cauliflower which is Dana’s grandmother’s recipe. The fork tender cauliflower is every bit as pleasing as Dana said it would be as I quizzically ask how she made a gluten free béchamel. While you may think you have to give up cheesy creamy sauces to eat healthy, you certainly do not at For His Temple. As Dana attests, healthy food is not boring food, and her lasagna is anything but. The layers of Italian sausage, cheese and tomato sauce between gluten free noodles make for a fully organic meal you can feel good about eating. The cheese is perfectly browned on top indicating it was cooked to perfection and the noodles still have a bite to them, allowing the cooked lasagna to retain its shape and have the perfect pull of cheesy goodness in every bite. While the portion size is filling and certainly enough for a meal, you don’t end up feeling bloated or with a food baby after you are done, because there are no processed ingredients here. Speaking of, fried chicken is certainly a Southern staple, and fried foods are difficult for many Southerners to give up when changing their eating habits. However Dana’s oven fried chicken is so crispy, crunchy and delicious I had to be convinced it was baked. The organic chicken
gets its crust from crispy non-GMO, gluten free hummus chips, making the meal organic, gluten free, dairy free and proving it’s a customer favorite it sold out, while customers were still waiting in line. It is no wonder as the chicken is tender, juicy, perfectly cooked and is clearly real chicken. The organic cabbage and green beans she serves on the side round out the Southern meal and are fresh, flavorful and are expertly cooked to retain the texture of the vegetable, as well as their natural flavor. The green beans are cooked with a Mahaffey Farms ham hock and organic onions, celery and seasonings. Therefore, if you think you are going to have to skip out on pork being used to flavor your vegetables because you are at a restaurant that champions healthy eating, you are wrong. It is simply that Dana’s vegetables are 100% organic while still being 100% flavorful. Yes, even Dana’s aromatics and seasonings are organic, and she makes her own seasoning blends for tacos, vegetables, chili and curry. She admits to using seasonings sparingly as to not cover up the food as “it’s about the food” after all and is also cognizant of the low sodium meals required by many of her customers. She also knows when people eliminate gluten, dairy, sugar or processed foods from their diets eating a variety of food can initially be a struggle, which is why you’ll find a vegetarian ramen bowl next to the brisket enchiladas, curried chicken and beef stir fry in the cooler. Not only is Dana keeping with food trends as ramen all the rage in many cities, her ramen bowl, made with rice noodles, is satisfying, flavorful, organic and perfect for fall when your soup craving kicks in. By adding mushrooms, diced kale, crunchy broccoli florets and corn to her homemade vegetable stock and topping it with a perfectly cooked soft boiled egg Dana has created a gluten free, dairy free, ramen bowl that could compete with any trendy restaurant while also allowing you to feel good about what you are eating and having it taste delicious too. Finally, if you think healthy or gluten free eating means no more desserts, check out the dessert case before you give up. Stocked with goodies, such as lemon coconut bars, German chocolate cake, pecan cookies, cupcakes and blueberry muffins, there is something to satisfy your sweet tooth, too. When Dana offers me the bestselling CB cupcake I’m a tad apprehensive when I find out it is a chocolate beet cupcake. However, Dana assures me “it tastes like fudge” and it does. The cake is moist and does not look any different than your typical cupcake, yet it contains a “heart and kidney healthy beet puree,” Dana explains. The icing is so addicting, dense and fudgy I can’t imagine it is healthy. But with organic powdered sugar, organic vanilla and dairy free/soy free buttercream, a dessert does not have to be a guilty pleasure. If you served these at your next birthday party, I doubt you’d have any complaints. In fact, the German chocolate quinoa cake may be just the thing for my German chocolate cake loving Dad’s next birthday. I know, beets in cupcakes- quinoa in German chocolate- just try it. This German chocolate cake is rich, dense yet moist is topped with pecans and coconut sweetened condensed milk, and there is no evidence of quinoa other than the benefits to your body, if that had you worried. All in all, there is no way to leave For His Temple without feeling energized, healthy and happy. From the moment the cheerful, energetic and caring Dana greets you, to the excitement you get finding just the food you’ve been looking for but cannot find anywhere else, to the satisfaction you get from eating a clean, healthy, organic meal specific to your dietary needs or desires you simply cannot leave without a smile on your face, in your heart and in your belly. As the only restaurant in the area certified gluten free by Beyond Celiac, For His Temple is the “go-to” place for anyone who is gluten intolerant. However, it is not only a gluten free club. Mainly, it is a place for people who care about what they put into their bodies and know how food can affect your overall health. Even if you are nothing free, give For His Temple Family Foods a try and you may find what clean healthy eating can do for your health, skin, attitude and energy level. If nothing else, you’ll be happy you met Dana.
Ramen Bowl
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Tails at Twilight The second annual Tails at Twilight Gala was held on Saturday, October 8, 2016 at Bayou Landing. The event that benefited the River Cities Humane Society for Cats was a huge success. Guests enjoyed dinner and drinks, live music and dancing as well as a raffle, silent auction and mystery boxes. Jack Rabbit Slims put on a fantastic show while attendees preserved memories in the photo booth. The main goal of the River Cities Humane Society is to raise funds that will be used to care for abused, neglected, stray and unwanted animals. Guests’ contributions will help provide assistance to a large population of animals in need in our community.
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THE EXPERTS
D r. B e a t r i ce Tatem E m p o w e rs Cl i ent s t o Be T he Best T hey C an Be
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ARTICLE BY KAY STOTHART RECTOR AND PHOTO BY MARTIN G MEYERS
r. Beatrice Tatem is a petite woman with a soft voice and a calm, pleasant demeanor. Her office is bright and colorful, just like the photos that accompany her monthly column in BayouLife, filled with artwork and artifacts from her travels and from the interesting people she has met over the years. Almost everything that decorates her office suite in the Chase Building off North 18th Street in Monroe has significance, from the books on the coffee table to the multitude of pillows she collects and changes out to match the season or her mood. “They may seem like just pillows,” she laughs, “but they have a purpose.” The pillows, she explains, are very therapeutic, and like other items in her counseling space, they help to make the surroundings comfortable and inviting. “When people come in for therapy,” she says, “I want the space to help them feel energized and uplifted.” Tatem says writing for BayouLife each month is a way for her to reach out to the people that she wants to help. “As a psychologist, I find that I am more of a practitioner than a scientist,” says Tatem. She enjoys writing for the everyday person as opposed to highly intellectual articles in journals and trade publications. She strives to educate people about how counseling can improve their everyday lives. Tatem was born in the Deep South and grew up on the East Coast. She describes her background as multi-cultural. Her father was a native of the Turks and Caicos Islands and her mother is from Greenwood, Mississippi. As a child, Tatem spent her summers in northeast Louisiana visiting her aunt and uncle, who were professors at Grambling State University. “I was kind of the daughter that they never had,” says Tatem. “I have wonderful memories of my summers in Louisiana,” she says. Education was an extremely important component of Tatem’s childhood. Her father and mother were both college-educated and held advanced degrees, and they never passed up an opportunity to further their daughter’s education. Her father was fluent in four languages and had already traveled extensively by the time he attended college. On the wall in his study at home was a gigantic world map. Tatem recalls that she would chose a country, and her father would teach her all that he knew about that nation or region. On weekends, she and her parents would often visit museums and attend theater productions near their home in Philadelphia. Following high school, Tatem attended her mother’s alma mater, Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. She says that going to Fisk was one of the best decisions she could have made, and she had a wonderful college experience. After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in psychology, Tatem went on to graduate school at Villanova University. Drawn to politics by her father’s interests and the talk
of government and politics that was commonplace in her household growing up, she majored in political science with intentions of going to law school. Her father was a staunch Republican, while her mother was a Democrat. Although they had different party affiliations, they shared core values and similar views on social issues which they always discussed in her presence. Tatem completed the political science program at Villanova, but realized in the process that law school was not what she was really interested in. She instead went back to psychology, her first interest and true calling, eventually earning both a Master’s and a Doctorate degree in her field. Looking back, Tatem says she has used that experience in her psychology practice, particularly in working with students trying to decipher their strengths and interests as they determine which career to pursue. Before opening Wellness Initiatives in Monroe, Tatem worked for a number of years in a university setting, heading up counseling programs at ULM and at Mississippi State University. “I always knew that I wanted to work with people,” Tatem says. “I am fascinated by people, their stories and what makes them tick.” She remembers a sort of “lightbulb” moment while she was a student in the Masters program at State University of New York in Albany. She was taking a class with David Bluestein, who was considered an expert in career counseling, and while she was not fond of the class itself, she says it helped confirm that she was in the right field. “This is me,” Tatem says she remembers thinking. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 179
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I always knew that I wanted to work with people. I am fascinated by people, their stories and what makes them tick.
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Tatem’s very first experience as a counselor came just before she finished at SUNY Albany. That experience taught her lessons that she still uses today. She was assigned by her professor to a shelter for runaways and street kids in New York, an assignment that was not her first choice for the required practicum. Tatem’s first client there was a young man of about 14, who was very streetwise. From this client, whose real name she does not reveal but whom she calls “Bobby,” she learned what she considers to be most important in being an effective therapist. When I walked in to meet my first client, I was so nervous. She had prepared for it and thought she knew exactly what to do. She remembers this teenage kid sat down and as she began talking with him, he said “You’re new at this, aren’t you? You don’t even know how to help me.” Tatem says, “He predicted everything that I was going to do, and basically called me out. I just said to him, “Yes, you’re right.’” Thinking she had failed at her first therapy session, she went to her supervisor and admitted that she had not known the right things to say or how to help this young man. She went home feeling dejected. Two days later, her supervisor met with her to let her know that Bobby had asked to see her again and continue working with her. He said that Tatem was the first person in years who had actually been honest with him, and who had really listened to him and considered what he had to say. That experience helped Tatem realize how important it is as a therapist to be honest and authentic. “I realized that what matters most is whether or not you really connect with the person you are counseling and trying to help,” says Tatem. “As a psychologist offering counseling, it is an honor for someone to open themselves up to and trust you, and I never take that lightly.” In her years of doing therapy with people, Tatem says she has learned that people do not care as much about who you are and or how many degrees you have, as much as they care about how you treat them and how you make them feel. “What is important is to be there, and to listen.” Dr. Tatem has been in private practice in Monroe since 2012, providing therapy for children, adolescents and adults. As the founder of Wellness Initiatives, LLC, she strives to help her clients take the initiative to bring wellness into their lives. Tatem’s clientele is very diverse, ranging in age from age three to age seventy-eight and coming from many different environments and circumstances. She enjoys working with individuals to provide help and guidance through difficult situations and advice for uncovering their true potential for leading a life worth celebrating.
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Sponsored by:
OUR MISSION Serving the 12 parishes of NELA, United Way of Northeast Louisiana works with volunteers, donors, and other local organizations to create lasting change in Education, Financial Stability and Health, as well as Basic + Emergency Needs—the building blocks for a good quality of life. Our mission is Helping People and Improving Our Community. EDUCATION Increasing local graduation rates. • 93% of READ.LEARN. SUCCEED. students in Monroe City, Ouachita Parish and Lincoln Parish School Districts improved their reading skills, increasing their chances of graduating high school. • During the 2014-2015 school year, 416 READ.LEARN.SUCCEED. volunteers read with 218 area students in Monroe City, Ouachita Parish, Lincoln Parish and Union Parish School Districts. • READ.LEARN.SUCCEED. students received over 5,350 free books to keep for their personal home libraries, inspiring a love of reading. FINANCIAL STABILITY Increasing income, building savings and gaining/sustaining assets. • Over 350 volunteers participated in Dollars & $ense Reality Fairs. • 1,659 area high school students attended Dollars & $ense Reality Fairs at 11 events throughout the community. • During the 2015-2016 school year, Dollars & $ense Reality Fairs were held for 23 high schools from 8 school districts. • United Way hosted Dollars & $ense Reality Fairs in 7 parishes: East Carroll, Lincoln, Madison, Ouachita, Richland, Tensas and Union. HEALTH Increasing access to care and preventative health and nutrition services. • In 2015, United Way of Northeast Louisiana provided over $130,000 in prescription savings through a partnership with FamilyWize®. • The average savings using the free FamilyWize® card is around 48% or approximately $18.50 per prescription. BASIC + EMERGENCY NEEDS Ensuring people have access to food, shelter, medicine, transportation and disaster relief (March 2016 flood response data as of August 26, 2016) • United Way of Northeast Louisiana 2-1-1 handled 24,447 contacts during the month following the 2016 Flood. • 2-1-1 provided FEMA information to 8,081 people during flood response. • Through the Volunteer Community Connection, United Way connected 268 volunteers to flood-related volunteer efforts in our community. • United Way of Northeast Louisiana established a Donations Distribution Center in March to collect and distribute donations of goods to area churches and non-profits to help people affected by the 2016 Flood. • To date, 123,904 durable and non-durable items have been distributed through the Donations Distribution Center. • The United Way of Northeast Louisiana Flood Response & Recovery Fund has currently raised over $346,000 for disaster assistance. Dollars are over and above the United Way of Northeast Louisiana Annual Campaign, and no administrative charges have been taken. • United Way of Northeast Louisiana convened and is providing staff support for the Long-Term Recovery Group to over 35 non-profits, faith based groups and government entities committed to helping area residents return to their homes. Learn more about United Way of Northeast Louisiana’s community impact at unitedwaynela.org/ stories. For more information about United Way of Northeast Louisiana and how you can join our efforts to create lasting community change, visit unitedwaynela.org, or dial 2-1-1 on any landline or mobile phone, a free call available 24/7/365. Because great things happen when we LIVE UNITED. 182 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
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OUR MISSION To strengthen and value individuals and families through professional services and community leadership with compassion and integrity. ABOUT US Founded in 1931, The Wellspring is one of the state’s oldest and most effective non-profits. The Wellspring is an umbrella organization focused on leading our community in serving people in need. Strengthening the lives of individuals and families is the tie that binds our programs together. We are steadfastly committed to the vision that has seen us now into our eighth decade – building thriving, healthy communities based on strong individuals and families. COMMUNITY IMPACT Changing our community, one life at a time. The Wellspring makes Northeast Louisiana stronger by helping individuals and families from all walks of life to overcome challenges, identify resources and develop workable solutions. Our mission is at work each day through the comprehensive, professional services The Wellspring offers: Youth Mentoring - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Louisiana (BBBS of NELA) strives to make a positive difference in the lives of children and their families through relationships with caring, responsible adults. Learn more about BBBS of NELA online at bbbsofnela.org. Therapy and Supervised Visitation - The Counseling & Family Development Center is one of the area’s premier providers of counseling and mental health services. The counseling center serves as the only Accredited Sexual Assault Center in Northeast Louisiana. Learn more about this program by calling (318) 323-1505. Support for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking - We offer comprehensive residential and non-residential services to adults and children in violent, abusive relationships. Support for the homeless - We have an array of homeless and Veterans’ programs and services throughout Northeast Louisiana serving some of our region’s most vulnerable individuals and families who are homeless, chronically homeless or at-risk of becoming homeless. BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Bob Collier, Chair Rick Guillot. Chair-Elect Dwayne Ludley, Treasurer Cathi Cox-Boniol, Secretary Brenda Johnson, Member-at-Large Mary Barrios Barbara Biersmith
Aimee Buchanan Ramona Caldwell DeLayne Donnell Julie Emory Dr. Florencetta Gibson Herbert Guillory Jack Gustafson
Sabrina Hogan Emmanuel Lowe Judge Wendell Manning John Ross Chris Thomas
GIVING OPPORTUNITIES You can provide philanthropic support to The Wellspring in a variety of ways. Giving opportunities include Corporate Giving, Individual Giving, In-kind Donations, Honorarium and Memorial Gifts, Event Sponsorships, Endowment and Planned Giving and more. Donations to The Wellspring can be received over the phone at (318) 323-1505, online at wellspringalliance.org, or by mail to 1515 Jackson Street, Monroe, LA 71202. UPCOMING EVENTS Christmas Tree Lighting - Tuesday, November 29, 2016, 5:30 p.m., Patriot Square, Winnsboro Holiday Open House - Thursday, December 8, 2016, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., 1515 Jackson Street, Monroe For more information about our upcoming events, please call (318) 323-1505. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 183
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MONROERENAISSANCE OUR MISSION Monroe Renaissance is a non-profit organization made of volunteers working to stimulate and make possible the re-awakening of downtown Monroe through community participation, resulting in an enhanced quality of life. ABOUT US Monroe Renaissance is one of the key groups responsible for the current transformation of the downtown area. In 1999, the group was organized to raise money for the Riverwalk area, on South Grand Street, across from the Ouachita Parish Courthouse. After raising $1 million for that particular project, the group continues to organize and fund beautification efforts and events to grow and revitalize downtown Monroe! This year, Monroe Renaissance has focused on the restoration and revitalization of the Garrett House. The group acquired this historical building from the Monroe Town Committee of The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the State of Louisiana and is located on South Grand Street, past the Rivermarket. The building dates back to circa 1840 and has survived floods, fires, storms and neglect. The group restored the interior to make the building functional and part of the downtown revitalization. Monroe Renaissance has partnered with Arrow Public Art and made the Garrett House a stop during the Downtown Gallery Crawl. The house has been open during downtown events, allowing the public to make use of it. For the second year in a row the Renaissance has teamed up with the Geneva Academy for their Big Serve event. This year the Renaissance donated $2000 to help add planters and other small landscaping projects to Downtown Monroe. Below are some more of the projects and efforts that Monroe Renaissance has worked on in recent years - • Raised $1 million from private donors to fully funded the Riverwalk area on the Ouachita River, which led to the current River Market • Donated the Riverwalk to the City of Monroe • Donated $19,200 to the City of Monroe to complete the RiverMarket area • Donated funds to Louisville Avenue Beautification Project • Created and organized the bi-monthly Downtown Pub Crawl, which highlights the downtown restaurants and bars and brings thousands of participants to the area • Coordinates, produces and funds the annual Independence Day and Christmas Firework displays • Partnered with Monroe Garden Study League, Acme Brick and The City of Monroe to create brick planters on the end of Art Alley and beautify the area • Funded trees to be planted along DeSiard Street and Art Alley • Organized “Pink Out Downtown” for Breast Cancer Awareness month • Coordinated and funded the “Finding Home” mural, painted by local artist, Nicholas Bustamante • Hosts annual “Up on the Rooftop” holiday party • Coordinated “Walking in a Window Wonderland,” a partnership with the Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and local junior high and high school art classes to decorate the windows along Desiard for the month of holiday season • Funded and organized the “Light up the Night” effort to decorate the downtown area with white Christmas lights for the holiday season • Coordinated and funded beautification efforts of Bry Park • Coordinated and funded beautification efforts of crosswalks areas throughout downtown • Funded benches on Art Alley, in honor of local artists • Funded and installed downtown signage including historic sign on Art Alley and welcome sign at Bry Park Monroe Renaissance is always looking for volunteers to help with their revitalization efforts. If you are interested in getting involved, contact Monroe Renaissance at 318-807-1177 or MonroeRenaissance@gmail.com 184 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
Sponsored by:
OUR MISSION Twin City Ballet achieves and inspires excellence in dance by offering mastery of the discipline, outstanding performances and community education and outreach. We take seriously our mission to provide quality training for our area’s talented young dancers, giving them opportunities to perform and provide superb entertainment for our community. ABOUT US Twin City Ballet Company, under the Artistic Direction of Linda Ford, Gretchen Jones, Michelle Harvey and Linda Lou Bourland, is a premier regional dance company with over 45 years of commitment to community enrichment through artistic and educational excellence. Based in the Twin Cities of Monroe and West Monroe, Louisiana since 1970, the company offers a year-round program of performances and classes providing young dancers with training by an experienced faculty and worldrenowned guest artists as performers, choreographers and teachers. The company embraces all styles of dance and has become a haven for exceptional dancers from a two-state region. The company enjoys the passionate support of its Board of Directors, Professional Board, Ballet Guild, enthusiastic Arts Council, area foundations and many local, state and national sponsors. Twin City Ballet’s Honor Company includes four Artists-in-Residence, a 33-member Senior Company and support and training groups. The company’s repertoire demonstrates our dancers’ versatile training, featuring classical and contemporary ballet, modern and jazz pieces. The 2016-17 TCB Season began with our Summer Dance Intensive Workshop, co-hosted with the University of Louisiana-Monroe’s School of Visual and Performing Arts. In November, Twin City Ballet will gather at ULM’s Brown Auditorium for a tribute performance in honor of the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council’s Tommy Usrey, who is set to retire after many years of service to our region’s Arts community. The dynamic choreography by Luis Fuente set to high energy percussion will be a memorable honorarium to such a vibrant Arts leader. In December, school children will delight in seeing Joe Istre’s exciting new production, An Annie Christmas! The Gala performance will showcase choreography by Leaia Caver Alsup as well, filling hearts with the true beauty of Christmas this holiday season. Twin City Ballet dancers will take you on a journey through a winter’s night with song and dance to the classical carols we love. TCB will close the season in April with the 20th Anniversary of the Annual Ballet Under the Stars that includes a children’s show and evening performances in the amphitheater by the beautiful lake, plus an afternoon performance for the community – all at the picturesque Kiroli Park. In honor of those who suffered from March 2016’s torrential floods, the Company will reprise Stories from the Levee, choreographed by Amelie Hunter to the music of Randy Newman. MEMBERSHIP TCBC Membership has its rewards! Perks of Being a Patron or Higher Level Member: • Receive passes to our exclusive Ballet Barre for light refreshments before each performance. • Get preferred seating placement at reserved seating venues. • Support our area’s brightest stars! • Receive TCBC E-mail alerts about upcoming performances and events! • Get Membership Recognition in TCBC performance programs. • Get Early Bird pricing for Season Memberships and save over General Admission pricing! For more information about tickets, membership or season sponsorships, contact us at twincityballet@yahoo.com or call 318.388.3011. www.twincityballet.org UPCOMING EVENTS November 1, 2016 Saluté! – An event honoring Northeast Louisiana Arts Council’s retiring CEO, Tommy Usrey November 29 - December 2, 2016 School Performances of An Annie Christmas! December 3, 2016 Holly Jolly Children’s Breakfast with Santa – 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Festival of Trees – 5 to 7:30 p.m. | Auction 6 p.m. Christmas Gala Performance – 7:30 p.m. April 20-23, 2017 Ballet Under the Stars – 7:30 p.m. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 185
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OUR MISSION The Junior League of Monroe is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. ABOUT US Since 1930, members of the Junior League of Monroe have devoted countless volunteer hours to meet the needs of the people and organizations of our community. Community leaders have always looked to the JLM for leadership in starting new community programs. As a result, the JLM has often been the catalyst that turns an idea into a successful program that benefits many in our area. Here are a few examples of programs that we have started in recent years: CASA - Court Appointed Special Advocatee, Teen Screen, Shots for Tots, Teen Court, Operation Abstinence and Project Child. 2016-2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS President- Ashley West President-Elect- Melissa Kiper Communications VP- Meghan Sharp Community VP- Heather Guillot Financial VP- Jan Mattingly Assistant Financial VP- Cherry Coon Corresponding Secretary- Angie Nicholson Membership Development VP- Cydni Hanks Planning & Research VP- Therese Nagem Advisory Planning Chair- Jodee Bruyninckx Nominating and Placement Chair- Katharine Spires Fund Development- Tomi Tharp Sustainer Advisor- Georgia Street COMMUNITY IMPACT Education Task Force – Each year this committee awards mini-grants to area teachers in the amount of $500 per grant. In addition to mini-grants, the Education Task Force Committee also funds ACT workshops for qualifying high school juniors and seniors and continues to support the annual Ouachita Parish Scholars’ Banquet. Families Can’t Wait – As a partnership with Families Helping Families, this program provides a hospital-based, primary prevention plan for at-risk mothers and has a positive impact on the health of infants. To prevent child abuse, neglect and to reduce the death rate of infants in Northeast Louisiana, volunteers are trained to provide education, support and referrals for assistance. In addition, first year calendars containing information regarding developmental milestones, vaccinations, breast-feeding, co-bedding and local and national resource numbers are given to all new moms. Car seats and pack-and-play systems are distributed to those who are in need. Tools and Literacy for Children – This program addresses the overall needs of at-risk children and families. TLC focuses on the physical, emotional and educational needs of a selected area elementary school with a high number of free and/or reduced lunches, conducts several parent nights which highlight various services and also provides uniforms and school supplies for all enrolled students. The program also provides new or gently used books, backpacks filled with school supplies, parenting classes, school uniforms, food at Thanksgiving, Christmas gifts and new or gently used coats for the entire student body.
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A wo rld of fun for
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OUR MISSION Improving the health and wellness of people living with chronic illnesses and disabilities through unique recreational and educational camping experiences. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Carlton Terrell, Board Chair Todd Burgess, Past Chair Gary Dewitt, Treasurer Lisa Evans, Secretary Misti Cordell Mike Epler Kathryn Joyce
Rachel Shelby Wendy Napoli Rhonda Miller Jan Murphy Laura Willsher Kerry Banks Tom James
Stephen Bullock Bob Bozeman, Emeritus Tom O’Neal, Emeritus Meade O’Boyle M.D., Emeritus Michael Zambie M.D., Emeritus
COMMUNITY IMPACT Founded in 1987, MedCamps of Louisiana began as a one week camp for 13 children with severe asthma and allergies. Since that time, “MedCamps” has grown tremendously. In the summer of 2016, MedCamps served nearly 300 children. Over the course of 29 summers MedCamps has provided camp to over 5,000 children living with varying illnesses and disabilities. MedCamps offers 10 camping sessions each summer, each catering to the specific needs of campers, who are chronically ill or disabled. These specialized camps target children ages 6 to 16 living with: spina bifida, cerebral palsy, asthma, sickle cell anemia, autism, Down’s syndrome, epilepsy, juvenile arthritis, hearing impairments, speech impediments, visual impairments and those living with intellectual disabilities. While at MedCamps, campers are introduced to traditional summer camping activities that include horseback riding, swimming, canoeing, archery and much, much more. Not only do they get to participate in all these new and exciting activities, but they do so surrounded by other campers who have the same or similar disability. At MedCamps, campers lose the feeling of uniqueness and the stigma of their disability is relieved. MedCamps of Louisiana’s summer camping program is held each year at Camp Alabama located just north of Interstate 20 near Ruston, Louisiana. Camp Alabama is a property of the Presbytery of the Pines and provides campers with facilities that include air conditioned cottages, a beautiful lake, scenic trails and a wheelchair accessible swimming pool. MedCamps of Louisiana has never charged any dues or fees to attend its summer camps. The camps are funded by the generous support of individuals, organizations, corporations and by the continued success of MedCamps’ fundraising events. MedCamps is a partner agency of the United Way of Northeast Louisiana. OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP Give the gift of camp this holiday season and adopt a MedCamps of Louisiana camper! Your gift of $250.00 or more can help send a child with special needs to camp in 2016. UPCOMING EVENTS Friday, October 28, 2016 Glenwood Charity Golf Classic – For more information www.grmc.com March 2017 MedCamps Madness – For more information, follow www.facebook.com/ MedCampsMadness June 2017 30th Anniversary Celebration @ Camp Alabama – for more info follow www.facebook.com/MedCamps MedCamps of Louisiana is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. To make a donation, request a camper application packet or simply learn more about this worthy cause, please visit MedCamps online at www.medcamps.org, follow them at facebook.com/MedCamps and twitter.com/MedCamps, email info@ medcamps.org or call toll free 877-282-0802. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 187
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ABOUT THE CHILDREN’S COALITION The Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana is a membership-based 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to creating communities where children and families thrive. We address the needs of children and youth, ages 0-18, in four main areas: Early Care and Education, Healthy Living, Parent Education and Youth Development. Through providing services that address critical issues and raise the level of care and support for children in our region, it’s the hope of the Children’s Coalition to create a stronger, more empowered community that will bring prosperity to Northeast Louisiana. Creating communities where children and families thrive by… • Collaborating with partner organizations and agencies to identify and address critical issues related to children and youth. • Facilitating change by bringing together people and programs to meet specific needs of children and families in our community. • Educating parents, professionals and policy-makers on “what works” for children in our community. SCHOOL READINESS TAX CREDIT The Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana was incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1997 with a staff of two and a vision to “create communities where children and families thrive.” Today, the organization has a staff of 56 at five locations. Our 20 plus stateand federally-funded programs fall under four main focus areas: Early Childhood Education, Healthy Living, Youth Development and Parent Education; however, early childhood care and education remains at the heart of everything we do. Research tells us that 85% of a child’s brain is developed by the age of three, and that brains are built through rich and nurturing interactions with caring adults. What this means is that our youngest children require quality care and education. Unfortunately, state budget cuts have created a gap for many early childhood programs. School Readiness Tax credits have helped the Children’s Coalition to fill that gap. School Readiness Tax Credits were one of the few tax credits untouched by last year’s budget cuts. “The School Readiness Tax Credits are some of the most noteworthy and universal beneficial tax credits ever passed in Louisiana,” said State Rep. Katrina Jackson. “It was important that we holistically preserved these tax credits while the Legislature trimmed others that do not benefit all Louisianians.” The tax credit program, passed by the Louisiana Legislature in 2007, allows businesses to donate up to $5,000 to Louisiana Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies and recoup every penny. The Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana is one of six such agencies in the state. Tom Nicholson, CEO of Strauss Interests, said the program is so easy he almost didn’t believe it. “I went to our CPAs and I said, ‘Does this thing really work like this? Can it be this simple?’ And they assured me that, in fact, it was,” he said. Companies can donate up to $5,000 and get it back as a credit against that company’s state income taxes or as a direct rebate from the state treasury. Companies with multiple tax ID numbers can donate $5,000 for each corporation. “These tax credits allow the Coalition to sustain early childhood programs that are no longer fully funded by the state—but should be,” said Children’s Coalition Development Director, Lindsey Murry. Current programs supported by School Readiness Tax Credits include Baby Bayou at the Children’s Museum, community-wide events, grants to child care centers to help them increase quality, teacher training, a shared resources website for child care centers, parenting classes in the community and early literacy programs. “Instead of writing a check to the government, you have a chance to invest your money locally in support of our children,” added Ms. Murry. Nicholson said that CPAs should be familiar with how to enroll clients or be able to fill out the brief form. “Other than that, it’s easy as writing a check,” he said. For more information about the tax credits, visit the Children’s Coalition website www. childrenscoalition.org. Deadline for 2016 SRTC donations is December 31, 2016. 188 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
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ABOUT US Family Promise of Ouachita is a 30-90-day transitional homeless shelter for families with children located here, in Ouachita Parish, since 2009. We are one of 200 affiliates of Family Promise National, which was formed in 1988. Affiliates have served more than 600,000 people through the efforts of over 6,000 congregations and more than 160,000 volunteers. This affiliate has served over 100 families since opening our doors in 2009. Family Promise is a nationwide movement to stimulate communities and their local interdenominational congregations to care for those that cannot care for themselves. Locally, we have an extremely supportive group of congregations that allow our families to sleep in their church facilities for a week every rotation. These congregations provide overnight volunteers and meals. They are supported by another group of support congregations that assist in meals, volunteers or monetary support. During the day, our guests come to our Day Center, which provides a homelike atmosphere from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. This is the staging area for families to take care of their daily needs, and where we are able to assist families in their time of transition. Here, we offer life skill classes, including resume and job search, short and long term goal setting, New Beginnings Financial Literacy course, weekly benchmarks, transportation and a list of other things from school supplies to socks. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Darrell Jans Guy Barr Bob Bozeman Barney Tucker Robert Williamson Rev. William Smith John Bruscato
Dianne Rosier Will Clark Tim Hammett
George Weaks Lisa McGehee George Schaeffer
GIVING OPPORTUNITIES Family Promise of Ouachita operations are solely funded through community support and foundation grants. We accept no federal or state funds, and this is why we need local supporters. Here are some opportunities for you to partner in our mission: 1. Monetary Donations • Become a Club 365 Member today! For just $1.00 a day, you can help Family Promise put an end to homelessness here in our community • Donations can be made through checks, PayPal through our website and cash. Any size donation would be appreciated 2. In-Kind Donations • Cleaning, toiletry and school supplies • New starter kits for families moving into their homes. FAMILY PROMISE THRIFT STORES These stores operate through 100% donations from our community and also through many volunteer hours in addition to the paid staff. The donations are sold at reasonable rates to help support the shelter and to allow our families a place to respectably shop for their needs at no cost.
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OUR MISSION The Big Whit 77 Foundation strives to make an eternal, positive impact on the lives of youth and families in north Louisiana by creating and supporting programs that provide love and encouragement to help each individual grow intellectually, spiritually and physically. OUR PROGRAMS Whit’s Warriors: The Big Whit 77 Foundation has awarded over $500,000 in college scholarships and supplies. High school seniors in Ouachita and Lincoln parishes who meet the criteria are invited to apply for the $1000 scholarship toward higher education. Students applying will also be given the opportunity to attend a Leadership Conference. This scholarship program is unique and is intended for students who are looking for mentorship on how to excel in everything they do. A Whit’s Warrior is a student that wants to embody all the characteristics of a Leader; work ethic with balance, humility with confidence, passion with persistence, and a leader through consistency. By forming a group of community leaders, the program will be able to shape the lives of our youth while familiarizing participants on the communities opportunities, needs, challenges and resources. Warriors will establish an effective dialogue among participants and community leaders while also forming friendships with participants and develop a network of peers through fun and interactive exercises. Open Arms: The Big Whit 77 Foundation believes that every child deserves a loving and supportive home. Open Arms offers financial grants to families going through the adoption process. It is important to us that those families, who are called to adoption, are not turned away because of the overwhelming cost. Applications are accepted twice a year, and two financial grants are awarded in the Fall and Spring. The Open Arms grant is one of the only opportunities in the state that financially supports families pursing adoption. To date, we have joined 6 wonderful families on their adoption journey. Visit our website for the application and guidelines. The Wish List Event: Sponsored by Merrill Lynch Kirby-Orten-Guillot-Breaux & Associates, the Big Whit 77 Foundation partners with area organizations to identify families in Ouachita and Lincoln Parishes that have experienced a challenging year. Families are invited to spend the evening with the foundation, as well as local university athletes, for fun, food and a Christmas surprise! COMING UP The Big Whit 77 Foundation is currently undergoing a new website design. The new website will be moble friendly and provide up-to-date information while loaded with pictures from the foundation events and the Whitworths on and off the field. Whit’s Warriors applications will be released soon and will be due early next year. All eligible students who apply for the scholarship will be invited to attend the Leadership Conference with Melissa and Andrew Whitworth and other exciting guests. Don’t miss this rewarding opportunity. For more information, contact Julie Emory at foundation@bigwhit77.com, or check out our website at www.bigwhit77.com.
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OUR MISSION To provide services to area cancer patients and also to support the Louisiana Cancer Foundation. OUR MOTTO Seldom Seen, but Strongly Felt. OUR COMMITMENT AND VISION The Cancer Foundation League (CFL) is affiliated with the Louisiana Cancer Foundation as a fundraising arm to help with outreach and to support the Foundation’s programs and services. We aim to provide direct financial assistance to individuals diagnosed with cancer. The CFL is committed to improving the financial, emotional and physical well-being of cancer patients in Northeast Louisiana. We hope to help lighten the financial burden, so that a patient and his/her family can concentrate their efforts on fighting the disease of cancer. The CFL was founded in 2002 by two Northeast Louisiana women, Dee Dee Cook and Virginia Knickerbocker, who saw the need to address the immediate concerns for cancer patients. The two women collaborated about offering financial assistance to those impacted by the cancer diagnosis. The Cancer Foundation League was initially formed with a $25,000 donation from philanthropist Kitty DeGree and the contributions have grown over the years. Funds are used to help pay patients’ non-medical bills, such as rent or groceries, or giving gift cards to help patients with travel expenses to treatment sites. Since our inception, the Cancer Foundation League has spent over $1,600,000 assisting over 4,500 patients. EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS President, Barbara Grandon Vice President, Alise Oliver Secretary, Cyndi Foust Treasurer, Ashley Pardue Assistant Treasurer, Susan Harwood Marketing and Development, Amanda McMullen Patient Services, Donna Nolan Members at Large, Jane Campbell, Carla Costello, Donna Davidson, Mary Linda McCan, Debbie Sawyer EVENTS Christmas Basket Deliveries: December 7-11, 2016 Breast and Cervical Screening: January 21, 2017 Annual Gala: January 28, 2017, “An Evening of Southern Elegance” Colo-Rectal Screening: March, 2017 Theresa Marsala Memorial Golf Tournament: May 12, 2017 Cancer Survivors Celebration: June, 2017
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OUR MISSION AND VISION Our mission is to empower individuals with developmental disabilities and their families to have quality lives through instruction, support and opportunity throughout Northeast Louisiana. Having begun in 1954 by courageous parents who refused institutional placement for their children, ARCO has remained directed by the current needs of those we support. ARCO’s vision of community inclusion began as a singular focus for individuals with developmental disabilities and has enlarged to encompass persons of all abilities and interests, where those with disabilities are contributing and valued, where there is belonging for all. SERVICES ARCO services include therapeutic early intervention for children birth to three years of age and instruction and parental support through ARCO’s Children’s Center, and for adults with developmental disabilities, Supported Living, Supported Work and Day Habilitation. The Supported Work program has two business enterprises that provide employment training for adult with intellectual disabilities, Sassy Kats, a retail and resale shop, and ARCO Shred, a confidential document destruction service for individuals and businesses. EMPLOYMENT You can change someone’s life and get paid! Benefits and rewarding employment with both part-time and fulltime positions are available. For more information, please call (318)387-7817 Ext. 110 or 106. ARCO is an equal opportunity employer. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Pat Cranford, President; Ryan Hemrick, Vice President; William Lewis, Secretary; Terry M. Duke, Treasurer; Sharon Booth; Sarita Daniel; Barbara Doyle; Joe Holyfield; Judge Wendell Manning; Steve Murray; Russell White; and Doug Wood. Advisory Board - Sharon Booth, Steve Haedicke, Willie Haynes OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP Holiday Cards Available Now – December 2016 These fun cards were developed in ARCO’s inclusive Drawn Together Art Program under the direction of artist, Andrea May. They are very unique and super fun, because each card has some trivia and recipe on the back. The Drawn Together Art Program students and current volunteer instructor, Clint Downing, are developing a greeting card line that will be available soon. ARCO’s Children’s Center Holiday Campaign – November thru December 2016 Become a financial partner to help support community and home based therapies for infants and toddlers with special needs. Early intervention services also provide special instruction for parents, families and other natural caregivers to best support their child’s needs. ARCO’s Annual Membership Campaign – March thru June, 2017 Starting at just $30, you can become a financial partner, supporting the mission of the agency and assisting ARCO in providing quality services for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
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OUR MISSION It is Louisiana Delta Ballet’s goal to bring quality ballet to North Louisiana in order to educate our young people in arts enjoyment and appreciation as well as to enthuse the community at large in the passion of ballet. We strive to create an atmosphere of acceptance and appreciation for dance performance and to further the growth of the arts through the development of an audience sensitive to the importance of all artistic undertakings. ABOUT US The Company consists of pre-professional dancers from a sixteen parish area of North Louisiana. LDB has become a vessel for dancers to pursue a professional dance career and has also contributed to an increase in the appreciation for the arts in the community. Each year, LDB hosts a summer intensive workshop in conjunction with the City of Monroe, featuring Dance Masters such as Valerie Madonia, Thom Clower, Daniel Baudendistel, Davis Robertson, Stacey Calvert, Valerie Robin, D.J. Guthrie, Kersten Todey and Christian Vincent. The workshop is the official audition site for LDB and a popular summer program for dancers across the South. Louisiana Delta Ballet is also proud to be a part of Regional Dance America where the Company has been chosen to perform original choreographic works each year and was recently awarded one of only five “National Choreographic Recognition Awards” for its ballet piece “Waltzes” by John Magnus at the national festival, “Festival de Dance” in Montreal, Canada. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mike Downhour, President Deborah Colvin Courtney Hornsby Jeanine Ballance, Vice President/Secretary Gene Crain Kim Leija Cruse Flowers, Vice President/PR Scott Crain Mike McGee Connie Walden, Treasurer Joan Edinger Lamar Walters Josh Barham Dr. Dan Holt Becky Woods STAFF Missy Crain, Artistic Director Elmarie Wessels, Assistant Artistic Director Colette Boutwell, Business Manager UPCOMING EVENTS December 12-16, 2016 ’Twas the Night Before a Cajun Christmas Ballet LDB is pleased to present this classic tale filled with Cajun folklore and Christmas whimsey. This original ballet, choreographed and staged by Artistic Director Missy Crain, assisted by Asst. Artistic Director Elmarie Wessels brings the wonder of Christmas to the swamps of Louisiana in a story written by Nan Cogburn and narrated by Caleb Wilkins. Santa (Walter Allen) travels to Cajun country where he meets a coterie of mysterious characters like Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, alligators that tango and lightning bug guides. Come experience a Christmas Tale with a Louisiana flare. Christy Taylor has developed a lesson plan for area schools based on Louisiana folklore to enhance the ballet experience. Monroe Civic Center W.L. Jack Howard Theater March 11, 2017 10th Anniversary of Dancing with the Louisiana Stars This year’s Dancing with the Louisiana Stars promises to be fun evening featuring the best of the best dancers from the past 10 years in a Championship of Champions and Crowd Favorites. Monroe Civic Center Arena For more information or to buy tickets, visit louisianadeltaballet.com.
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Ruston Fashion Week Finale The Ruston Fashion Week Finale party was held to celebrate a week of style, hosted by area boutiques, stores, salons and art vendors. The event took place on Saturday, October 15 at the Heard Building in Ruston. Local food trucks and drink vendors provided eats and refreshments as guests mingled and danced to the tunes of DJ D-Smooth. For the week, each participant held their own fashion event including special sales, shopping parties, trunk shows, art exhibits and a fashion show. The finale party was the perfect ending to a great week in Ruston.
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On the BayouScene 1G uinn Hinkie, Carrie Anderson and Michelle Cunningham 2 Victoria Staten and Taylor Heiden 3 Brittany Fisher and Orie Taylor 4 Morgan Likely and Levi Songer 5 Ronny and Heather Walker 6 Chasity Orwell and Paul Steen 7 Kurt McEnery, Delia Simpson and Olivia Elkins 8 S arah Hall, Matthew Pettit, Tanner Chavez and Carlton Gray 9M ichael Sutton, Caroline Daughdrill, Kim and Chase Sutton 10 S ydney Romaine, Max Guzman, Heather Bailey and Hanna Ryder 11 Hunter Garlington, Kallie McBryde and Sarah Chestnut 12 Sarah Meek, Katie Bonnette and Alex Curry 13 Leah Schratz, Erika McDaniel and Jennifer Tran 14 Travis and Brittany Napper, Blair and J. Walpole 15 V ictoria Archer, Jessica Gammel, Ashley Durrett and Brittany Hunt 16 Brad and Ashleigh Anders 17 Heather Walker and Kimber Reaves 18 Taylor Cappe and Holly Odom
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BEEHIVE
Ellie looks like radiant in this sunflower print top with bell sleeves. Paired with a flare jean with undone hem, this look is great for fall weather. Add a heeled lace-up boot for a finished look. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 197
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THIS PAGE: FREE BIRDS
This shaggy, hooded vest is great for cooler weather. Pair it with this floral dress to create a flowy silhoutte. This bootie is a year-round staple that features a stacked heel with side cutouts for a bohemian luxe look.
OPPOSITE PAGE: HEMLINE
Ellie is channeling her inner flower child in this long-sleeve mini dress with a sexy keyhole in the front and back. Perfect for date night, this dress is paired with a natural rabbit fur, Chan Luu hoop earrings, a luxe calfhair pouch and these stunning over-the-knee grey suede boots.
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THIS PAGE: THE FLEURTY GINGER BOUTIQUE
Stand out this season in this gorgeous maroon, floral print keyhole dress. Perfect for any occassion this dress gets a punch of pizzazz with this chic, low heel, over-the-knee boot.
OPPOSITE PAGE: HERRINGSTONE’S
Now that it’s getting a little chillier and the leaves are changing, it’s time to fall in love with this teal and pink floral top. Finish the look with these high rise flare cords for a look that may inspire a Shakespearean sonnet or two. And don’t forget to accessorize with fall’s biggest trend, a choker 200 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
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CROSWELL’S BOUTIQUE 139
Looking for a look that can transition easily from day to night? This ensemble that features contour fit jeggings in pewter, a super soft, V neck t-shirt and this haute hued ombre fur vest has you covered. Add these gorgeous peep toe booties with a suede fringe and braid and layers of necklaces and bracelets for a look that is ready to hit the town. 202 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
LA Tech ARCH 335 Design Build Architecture Faculty Win Grand Prize in National Film Challenge
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rad Deal and Robert Brooks, architecture faculty in Louisiana Tech University’s School of Design, have won the Grand Prize and the People’s Choice Award in the American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) 2016 I Look Up Film Challenge for their inspirational short film titled, “Rebuilding MedCamps.” Deal’s production was selected as the Grand Prize winner from a field of 47 participants from across the United States. The film also took home the 2016 I Look Up Film Challenge People’s Choice Award with over 43,000 votes from the public and industry professionals across the country. “Rebuilding MedCamps” is a three-and-a-half minute film, which showcases Deal’s work with Brooks and the partnership between the Design Build Studios of Louisiana Tech and MedCamps of Louisiana. It tells the story of how the faculty and students from Louisiana Tech’s School of Design partnered with MedCamps to enrich the lives of campers through the design and construction projects at the MedCamps grounds. “Our partnership with MedCamps has not only been mutually beneficial, it has exceeded everyone’s expectations,” said Deal. “MedCamps mission is to provide transformative and empowering experiences for those they serve, and at its core, that is the same goal of great architecture. MedCamps’ mission is highly motivational to our students, allowing them to serve a marginalized community and to see their design take shape in the real world for the first time and change the lives of children. It’s a powerful formula.” The projects captured on film and that emerge from the Design Build Studio experience at Louisiana Tech create engaging and meaningful learning experiences for students. Three projects have been completed thus far with one project, the Larkin Gibbs Memorial Pavilion, winning the AIA Louisiana Merit Award and the Members’ Choice Award at the annual AIA Louisiana Design Awards Ceremony. New plans are already being made for a new project set to begin next spring. The 2016 I Look Up Film Challenge, which seeks to shine a light on the stories of architecture and design through the power of film, presented Deal and Brooks with the Grand Prize during the AIA Architecture and Design Film Festival held in New York City. Deal and Brooks have been invited to screen the film at the SXSW Eco Conference in Austin, and at the Architecture and Design Film Festival in Washington D.C. next spring. “What the School of Design’s collaboration with MedCamps offers and what this film communicates are how profoundly people’s lives can be impacted through our empathy, our time and our talents,” said Karl Puljak, director of the School of Design at Louisiana Tech. “Through this single architecture course and this three minute film, people have experienced how powerful design can be when it serves us well. Perhaps no group is more transformed more by the experience than our own students and faculty.” To view Deal and Brooks’ award-winning film, please visit https:// vimeo.com/180375122.
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raving a little down-home comfort food? These mouthwatering Southern favorites are sure to satisfy your soul. From Vieux Carré Market’s Oyster Dressing to Thurman’s wholesome Beef Stew, these recipes are staples for family gatherings this fall
Photography by Martin G Meyers. Food styling by Taylor Bennett. Turkish Tea Towels and Driftwood Bowl courtesy of Woodstock Furniture Revival; Tree Stump Cutting Board courtesy of Paul Michael Company
NEWK’S EATERY TIPPAH COUNTY Caviar black-eyed peas pimientos yellow bell peppers, diced green onions, chopped jalapeños, seeded and chopped WET MIX: canola oil red wine vinegar seasoning salt garlic powder salt pepper hot sauce 1. Combine wet mix ingredients 2. Add in peas, pimentos, bell peppers, onions and jalapeños 3. Chill 4. Serve and Enjoy 204 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
TRIO’S CHICKEN & Dumplings FOR THE CHICKEN AND BROTH: 5 lbs chicken parts 1 large yellow onion, peeled and coarsely chopped 2 large ribs celery, coarsely chopped 2 medium carrots, peeled and coarsely chopped 1 tsp whole peppercorns 3 quarter-sized slices fresh ginger 1 large sprig each parsley, sage and thyme 2 bay leaves 2 quarts water or chicken broth FOR FINISHING THE BROTH: 1 tbsp unsalted butter 1 large yellow onion, peeled and chopped 1 large garlic clove, minced 3 tbps chopped parsley, divided 1 tbps each fresh, chopped fresh sage and thyme 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon Coarsely ground black pepper FOR THE DUMPLINGS: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp baking soda 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 3 tbsp lard or vegetable shortening 1 cup whole milk or buttermilk 1. Chicken and broth: Place all ingredients in a large Dutch oven or stock pot. Bring almost to a boil, lower heat, cover partially and simmer until chicken is tender, about 2 hours. 2. Let chicken cool in broth; remove and strain broth, discarding solids. Return broth to pot and bring to a simmer. Cook, uncovered, until it is reduced by 1/4 Meanwhile, skin and bone chicken and cut into bite-sized pieces. Skim excess fat from broth and cool. Cover and refrigerate chicken and broth until ready to use. (up to 2 days) Skim solidified fat from top of broth before using. 3. To finish broth, melt butter in Dutch oven. Add onion and sauté over medium-high heat until the onion is beginning to color. Add garlic and sauté. Add 1 tbsp parsley along with sage, thyme and broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to medium. 4. Dumplings: sift flour, soda, baking powder and salt into a mixing bowl. Cut in lard or butter with a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse
meal. Make a well in center, pour in buttermilk and quickly stir until dry ingredients are all incorporated. 5. Lightly flour a smooth work surface and turn dough out onto it. With lightly floured hands, fold and knead doughuntil until it is smooth and cohesive. Divide it into 3 equal lumps. Lightly flour and roll one lump out to the thickness of piecrust, about 1/8 inch. Quickly cut into 1” x 2” strips. Drop dumplings into broth; repeat with remaining dough. 6. Simmer 5 minutes. Add chicken and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes more, until dumplings are cooked through and firm, but tender. Adjust seasonings for taste, as needed. Garnish with the remaining parsley. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 205
COMFORT CLASSICS
CRUMBS CATERING SHRIMP Ya Ya by Chef Jodie Morphew of Crumbs Catering GOUDA CHEESE GRITS: 4 cups Chicken broth 2 cup heavy cream 2.5 cup grits 1 lb unsalted butter 1cup gouda cheese, freshly grated Salt and pepper to taste CREAMY SPINACH SAUCE: 3 cup heavy cream 2 tbsp butter 1 minced onion 1 tbsp minced garlic 2 cup spinach, chopped or torn 2 cup Portobello mushroom, chopped or sliced 5 green onions, chopped (save some for garnish) salt, pepper, and hot sauce to taste 1 pound of gulf shrimp peeled and deveined 1. Use a traditional cooking method for making the grits, stir the gouda cheese in at the very end. Hold hot on stove 2. While the grits are simmering away, sautĂŠ the onion and garlic in butter. Once tender, add mushrooms, spinach, green onion. Then add heavy cream and allow it to simmer while you stir to reduce the sauce. 3. Once it reaches desired thickness, season with a pinch of salt and pepper and a dash of hot sauce, to taste. Pour sauce into a bowl. 4. Add a drizzle of oil to your now-empty pan on high heat and sear seasoned shrimp. BONUS POINTS: Top with extra chopped green onion, red pepper flakes or bacon!
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THURMAN’S FOOD FACTORY OLD FASHIONED Beef Stew 3 lbs beef, cubed 2 medium diced onions 3 stalks celery (large cuts) 2 lbs diced red potatoes 4 diced carrots 2 tbsp dried parsley flakes 2 tsp dried thyme 2 bay leaves 5 cloves dried garlic 1 6 oz. can tomato paste 1 #303 can whole kernel corn (16 oz can) 3 large cans stewed tomatoes 10 cups beef broth salt pepper flour 1. S alt and pepper beef well. Dredge in flour and seer in oil. 2. Mix all other ingredients, except potatoes and carrots, and add to pot. 3. Add meat and cook until tender. 4. Add diced potatoes and carrots about 30 minutes before done. 5. Serve over rice or potatoes.
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VIEUX CARRÉ MARKET OYSTER Dressing by Chef John E. Peters III Executive Chef Vieux Carre Market 1.5 lbs french bread (stale), cubed and toasted 8 oz red or gold bell pepper, diced 8 oz celery, diced 4 oz white onion, diced 4 oz green onion, diced 2 tbsp garlic, chopped 1 portabella mushroom, ribbed and medium diced 1 quart fresh oysters and their liquor 4 oz tasso, diced 12 oz unsalted butter 16 oz chicken stock 8 oz heavy cream 3 eggs, whipped 1 tsp herbsaint 2 tbsp Tiger’s Eye Spice original 2 tbsp Crystal hot sauce ½ tsp black pepper 1 ½ tsp thyme, dried 1 ½ tsp parsley, dried 1. Saute vegetables, tasso and seasonings in butter. 2. Add in liquids to deglaze. 3. Add oysters and cook for 1 minute. 4. Place all in cooler to chill. 5. Mix in eggs and fold through bread cubes, folding every 10 minutes until bread has absorbed all liquids. 6. Put in a greased Half Hotel Pan and bake covered in a 375 degree oven for 30 minutes then uncover and cook for an additional 15 minutes to brown.
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COMFORT CLASSICS
TRAPP’S CRAWFISH etouffee 1 ½ stick of butter 2 yellow onions 2 cups of celery 2 bell pepper 3 pounds of crawfish tails 5 garlic cloves 3 tablespoons Flour 1 cup Water 2 bundles Green onion 1 can petite diced tomatoes 1 bundle Italian flat leaf parsley Seasonings 4 cups long grain white rice 1. In large sauté pan over medium heat, add one stick of butter and sauté onions, bell pepper, celery and garlic until soften. 2. Add crawfish, tomatoes and seasonings and cook for 10 min. 3. Add the flour, water and stir until well combined and thickened. 4. Add in parsley and green onions. 5. Simmer and stir occasionally. 6. Serve over steamed rice top with green onions.
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COMFORT CLASSICS
GENUSA’S CAJUN Cornbread 2 boxes Martha White sweet corn muffin mix 4-eggs 1/4 cup butter 2 cups heavy cream 1 tbs fresh chopped garlic 1 cup chopped green onions 1 cup diced red onions 1 cup diced red bell peppers 1 can Cream style corn 1 lb mascarpone cheese 1 lb Louisiana crawfish tails 1 tbs Crab boil 1 tsp cayenne pepper 1. Sauté onions and peppers until lightly browned then add garlic and sauté for one more minute then add corn and simmer on low heat add mascarpone cheese season with salt and pepper to taste 2. Marinate crawfish tails in crab boil for 10 minutes then drain and add to onions peppers and corn. 3. Add eggs and cream to the muffin mix 4. When corn and marscapone and onions cool down incorporate into the corn muffin mix preheat oven to 350 degrees 5. Oil cast iron skillet and heat 6. Pour ingredients in the skillet and bake for one hour
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Vieux Carré Market Winemaker’s Dinner
A huge crowd filled Vieux Carré Market to capacity during the second annual North Delta Food and Wine Festival. Hosts with the most, Therese and Sammy Nagem, brought in their good friend, James Blanchard of Blanchard Family Wines, for the event. The Nagems, who are among the Patron Circle sponsors of the Crested Butte Food and Wine Festival, had discovered Blanchard Family Wines at the Colorado event and wanted epicureans from our area to experience the small label’s offerings. Vieux Carré’s Chef John Peters, who trained at Commander’s Palace, displayed his impressive range, pairing Blanchard’s wines with delights such as smoked duck spring rolls with Tiger Eye spice, crispy oysters on a bed of mixed greens, a melt-in-your-mouth filet and a chocolate torte served with a Chambord cream, raspberries and blueberries. Chef Peters took a bow at the end of the evening and introduced the Vieux Carré kitchen and waitstaff as some of the best he has ever worked with. Between courses, James Blanchard explained the origins of his family’s winemaking venture and his philosophy that wine is meant to be shared with family and friends. James, an Army military helicopter pilot and his brother bonded over the shared love of wine and realized their dream of establishing a family-run winery in California. Blanchard Family Wines has created a Wine Club and will ship wines in Spring and Fall to members. Twin City Ballet Company was honored to be partnered with Vieux Carré Market for the North Delta Food and Wine Festival. To cap off the evening, the Nagems and Vieux Carré Market, along with Blanchard Family Wines, presented a donation to Linda Lou Bourland for the iconic ballet company.
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Sam and Linda Lou Bourland, Gretchen Jones, Joe Istre James Blanchard, Therese Nagem, Chef John Peters E lizabeth Ebeling and Jodi Lyles R obert and Joyce Sims, Therese and Sammy Nagem C arol and Ben Denny, Amy Norris
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Calendar of Events For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com Every Saturday in November Ruston Farmers Market Time: 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Come enjoy an open-air market, while you shop for fresh fall produce, baked goods, local products and more every Saturday morning at the Ruston Farmers Market. Venue: Ruston Farmers Market Admission: Free Phone: 318-957-1305 Web: rustonfarmersmarket.org November 1-6 “Tartuffe” Time: Nov. 1-5 at 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 6 at 2:00 p.m. The Louisiana Tech University School of Performing Arts will be performing the play “Tartuffe,” written by Moliere and directed by Cherrie Sciro. Tartuffe is Moliere’s comic masterpiece, and this performance is sure to entertain! Venue: Stone Theatre Admission: $20 for adults; $10 for students Phone: 318-257-2930 Web: latechuniversitytheatre.com November 1 Sesame Street Live: Elmo Makes Music Time: 6:30 p.m. Join Elmo and friends in the Sesame Street Live event at the Monroe Civic Center. Don’t miss out on this great time! Venue: Monroe Civic Center Admission Cost: Prices vary Phone: (318) 329-2338 Web: www.ticketmaster.com November 4 Frankie Ballard Live in Concert Time: Doors open at 7p.m. Country-music star Frankie Ballard is coming to Ruston! Featuring his hits like “Young and Crazy,” “Sunshine and Whiskey,” and “It All Started with a Beer,” this is a show you will not want to miss! Venue: Revelry of Ruston Admission: $20 in Advance, $25 Day of Show Phone: 318-255-1008 Web: rustonrev.com
November 5-6 “Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet” at Strauss Youth Academy for the Arts Time: Saturday 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., Sunday 3:00 p.m. Star-crossed lovers, sword fights in the streets, a busybody of a nurse and a meddling friar… these are what make up Shakespeare’s most beloved tragedy, a classic tale of love found and love lost. You might think you know Shakespeare, but you haven’t seen anything until you see these characters come to life under the masterful direction of Resident Artist Cathy Airhart Webb. Admission Cost: $12 Adult, $8 Student Phone: 318-812-7922 Web: www.straussyouthacademyforthearts.com November 5 Painting in the Park! Time: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Get ready for Fall! Come to the Kiroli Park Tennis Shelter and paint a canvas or ceramic for only $10! Larger canvases will be available for $15. We supply everything (even step by step instructions for a variety of fall themed paintings) or bring your own ideas! All ages are welcome. Venue: Kiroli Park Admission Cost: $10-$15 Phone: 318-355-4720 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Time: Check in at 9:00 a.m., opening ceremony at 9:45 a.m. The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, this inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to reclaim the future for millions. Venue: Forsythe Park Admission Cost: no registration fee Phone: 318-329-2439 Happy Holiday Market Time: 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Come shop this amazing art, craft, and vintage fair featuring hand-crafted goods, furniture,
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antiques, clothing/accessories and more! Venue: My Happy Place Vintage Market Admission: Free Phone: 318-224-7058 Web: facebook.com/myhappyplacevintagemarket Woofstock 2016 Time: 10:00 a.m.-4:00pm Join the Downtown River Market for the 1st Annual Woofstock 2016. Participate in some fun and groovy activities, adopt a new family member, receive low cost pet services and purchase handmade pet products from local vendors and organizations. Venue: RiverMarket Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-807-9985 Web: downtownrivermarket.com My Mini Masur Drop In Activity Time: 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Bring your kids and let the creativity flow at the Masur Museum, as they create an art project. This event is free of charge and children will leave with a unique art project. Venue: Masur Museum of Art Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-329-2237 Web: www.masurmuseum.org 1st Annual Ainsley’s Angels Rollin’ on the River 5k Time: 4:00 p.m. Come out for the 1st Annual Ainsley’s Angels Rollin’ on the River 5k hosted by Ainsley’s Angels Race Series and Ainsley’s Angels in NELA. Venue: Ike Hamilton Expo Center Admission Cost: $30 Regular Runner, $25 Pusher, Free for all riders Phone: 318-325-9160 Web: theike.com Warhawk Football: ULM vs. South Alabama Jaguars Time: 4:00pm Come and cheer on the Warhawk Football team as they play rival South Alabama Jaguars! From the tailgate to the game this evening full of fun will have you cheering the whole time!
Venue: ULM Malone Stadium Admission Cost: Ticket prices vary Phone: 318-342-1000 Web: www.ulmwarhawks.com Wine Chocolate Jazz Masquerade Ball Time: 6:30 p.m.-10:00 p.m. Come out and enjoy delicious wine tasting, various chocolates and great sounds of Jazz while mingling with The Arts with Passion supporters and friends. Venue: Landry Vineyards Admission Cost: $35 General Admission, $60 Couples Ticket Phone: 318-557-9051 Web: www.landryvineyards.com November 6 Antique Alley Fall Open House Time: 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Kick off your holiday shopping by joining us for our Annual Fall Open House. Enjoy refreshments while you shop. Venue: Antique Alley Admission Cost: Free Web: www.antiquealleyshops.org November 7-11 Stained Glass Workshop for Adults Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m. This workshop will teach the student how to build a small stained glass panel using the Louis Comfort Tiffany method. Students will learn a brief history of stained glass, pick out a pattern, learn to cut glass, put together a panel using copper foil, and solder their panel. The class will be (4) two-hour sessions. Registration includes stained glass and basic supplies. Space is limited, and reservations are required. No prior experience is necessary. Venue: Masur Museum of Art Admission Cost: $160 Museum Members / $180 Non–Members Phone: (318) 329.2237 Web: www.masurmuseum.org November 10-12 Holidays in Cedartown Time: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Come experience North Louisiana’s premier holiday shopping market complete with a huge variety of
vendors, special events, after-hours shopping and more! Venue: Ruston Civic Center Admission: General Admission $5 Phone: 318-255-7707 Web: facebook.com/HolidaysInCedarTown November 11-12 Loyal Blue Weekend Times: 4:30 p.m. Come enjoy family activities, spirit groups, live music and more football fun in Ruston for the LA Tech Homecoming Game against UTSA! On Friday night, come to the TAC and enjoy live music by Smackwater from 4:30-6:30 p.m., with a break at 5:30 for a pep rally! On Saturday, fans are invited to shop and eat in Downtown Ruston before the game. Leave your vehicle downtown and catch the Tech Trolley at Railroad Park, which will transport fans to and from the stadium free of charge. Venue: Thomas Assemby Center / Downtown Ruston Admission: Free Phone: 318-255-2031 Web: experienceruston.com November 11-13, 17-19 “Rumors” at Strauss Theatre Time: Friday and Saturday 7:00pm, Sunday 2:00 p.m. Guests of Charley and Myra Brock’s tenth anniversary celebration becomes complicit in a cover-up that none of them really understand. The hilarious events and cascading rumors of the evening are a rich basis for great characters doing what Neil Simon does best - making the mundane, insane! Venue: Strauss Theatre Center Phone: 318-323-6681 Web: www.strausstheatrecenter. com November 11 Veteran’s Day Celebration Time: 4:00 p.m. Join Chennault Aviation and Military Museum for the Annual Veteran’s Day celebration and lighting of the Freedom Trees. Super 1 is cooking starting at 4:00 p.m. with free tours of the Museum. At 5:30 p.m. Congressman Abraham will speak about Veteran’s Day and the ceremony will end with the lighting of the Freedom Trees. Venue: Chennault Aviation and Military Museum
Admission Cost: Free Phone: (318) 362-5540 Web: chennaultmuseum.org November 12 Jamming for HOPE: Jambalaya Cook-off Time: 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Come out and show off your cooking skills or just sample some of the best Jambalaya in North Louisiana. Cook Off Pre-Registration is $35 per team, $45 day of event. Venue: Ideal Exteriors Admission Cost: $5 for kids 8-12, $8 for 13 and up Web: www.eventbrite.com/e/jamming-for-hope-jambalaya-cook-offtickets-26749768277 Leave No Trace Workshop with the Travelling Trainers Time: 10:00am-2:00pm Join the Leave No Trace Travelling Trainers to learn more about Leave No Trace and why it is important. Also learn ways to share LNT with others. Pre-registration is required by calling 387-1114 or emailing blackbayoulake@fws.gov Venue: Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-387-1114 Web: www.fws.gov/northlouisiana/ blackbayoulake Bottles and Brushes Painting Class Time: 1:00-4:00 p.m. Join the Masur Museum of Art as they host Bottles and Brushes Painting Class with René Hatten. Participants are welcomed to bring a bottle of wine or other preferred beverage to enjoy during the class. To register, please visit hattenhome. com/Classes where payment can be made through PayPal. Venue: Masur Museum of Art Admission Cost: $30 Phone: 318-329-2237 Web: www.masurmuseum.org Culturati Noiré: Black Heritage Fest Time: 5:00-9:00 p.m. Join the Northeast Louisiana Delta African American Heritage Museum as they host Culturati Noiré: Black Heritage Fest. Enjoy live art galleries, a fashion show and spoken word illustrating the stories of African American ancestry. Venue: Northeast Louisiana Delta African American Heritage Museum CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 215
Admission Cost: $15 Phone: 318-342-8889 Web: www.nldaahm.com Stars on the Bayou Time: 6:00-10:00 p.m. Don Mann, former member of SEAL Team Six, renowned athlete and trainer and New York Times Best-Selling author, will headline LearningTECH/Quest School’s Stars on the Bayou. The evening will honor families of Gold Star and Blue Star Moms. Venue: Ouachita Grand Plaza Admission Cost: $25 Phone: (318) 322-6000 November 13 Cottonland Marathon Time: 7:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Join the only full marathon in Northeast Louisiana. This Boston Qualifying marathon will begin and end in Kiroli Park. Venue: Kiroli Park Admission Cost: $75-$95 Email: Contact@dirtysouthmarathon.com Phone: 318-396-4016 Web: dirtysouthrunning.com/ events-item/the-cotton-land-marathon/ November 17 Plants of Christmas Time: 6:00-8:00 p.m. This holiday themed program will explore the long history of the Christmas tree and eleven other Christmas plants including Poinsettias, Christmas Cactus and even the Christmas Pickle! Venue: Biedenharn Museum and Gardens Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-387-5281 Web: www.bmuseum.org NELA Music Awards 2016 Time: 6:30 p.m. NELA Music Awards will be return for the second annual event on November 17th. This year, nominees will be honored in 27 categories as well as 4 new inductees into the NELA Music Hall of Fame on the Matt’s Music Stage in the Monroe Civic Center Arena! Venue: Monroe Civic Center Admission Cost: $10 general admission, $35 VIP Phone: 318-329-2225 Web: ci.monroe.la.us/calendar/ month
November 17 “NUTS!” Screening Time: 7:00 p.m. Come watch a screening of NUTS!, an independent film from the Southern Circuit Film Tour that is being presented by NCLAC. Stick around after for a filmmaker Q&A following the showing. Venue: Dixie Center for the Arts Admission: $5 for adults; $3 for students Phone: 318-255-1450 Web: dixiecenter.org November 19- December 23 Santa’s Christmas Village Time: Thursday- Friday 5:00-8:00 p.m.; Saturday 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.; Sunday 1:00-6:00 p.m. A holiday wonderland with ice skating, snow, make and take ornaments, cookie decoration, rides down Mount Sneaux, the Coca Cola Christmas Village trains exhibit, a festive outdoor light show and special visits with Santa. Don’t miss the new photo booth fun every Thursday evening from 5-8 p.m. and your chance to meet two real live reindeer on November 19th. Venue: Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum Admission Cost: $7 ages one and up, $10 Skate rental Phone: 318-361-9611 Web: www.nelcm.org November 19 Holiday Kids’ Fest Time: 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Celebrate the beginning of holiday cheer at the River Market’s Holiday Kids’ Fest. Bouncy houses, crafts, a kid’s musical showcase and so much more are sure to keep your little one entertained while you shop for unique holiday finds. Venue: RiverMarket Admission Cost: Free Admission Phone: 318-807-9985 Web: downtownrivermarket.com Diamonds and Denim Time: 7:00 p.m. The Willpower Foundation invites you to join them for a night of food, drinks, live and silent auctions and music from the Josh Madden Band. Tickets are available at First National Bank in Monroe and West Monroe, Trio’s Restaurant or by messaging the Willpower Foundation Facebook page. All proceeds of this event will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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Venue: Ouachita Candy Company Warehouse Admission Cost: $50 November 21- December 31 Holiday Lights Time: 5:00 p.m. Don’t miss the lights in Downtown Monroe and West Monroe or Tree Jays at the Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum each night. Walk through the tunnels of lights at the Wonderland of Lights or our newest display Throwback Christmas. Venue: Downtown Monroe and West Monroe Admission Cost: Free Phone: 800-843-1872 Web: www.christmasontheriver.org November 21 Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker Time: 7:00 p.m. Come out for a night of amazing ballet at Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. Venue: W.L. “Jack” Howard Theatre at the Monroe Civic Center Admission Cost: Prices vary Phone: 318-329-2225 Web: www.facebook.com/ events/164335843961527/ November 25- December 23 Wagon Tour of Lights Time: 5:00-9:00 p.m. Take an open air ride through the lights and sights of our twin cities. The 30-minute rides begin at 5:00 p.m. and conclude by 9:00 p.m. every Friday and Saturday nights beginning Nov 25, with the exception of Christmas Eve. Venue: Antique Alley Web: www.antiquealleyshops.org November 25-27 Big Creek Trade Days Time: Friday and Saturday 9:00 a.m.6:00 p.m.; Sunday 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Come shop a mix of unique gifts, antiques, hand-made items, and more treasures from a huge variety of vendors that offer something for everyone! Venue: Big Creek Trade Address: 327 California Plant Rd, Dubach Admission: $5 Parking Web: bigcreektradedays.com November 26 Outdoor Movie: Ernest Saves Christmas, sponsored by Trenton Street
Antiques Time: 5:30 p.m. Come enjoy this holiday movie under the stars and magical Christmas lights. Hot chocolate and popcorn will be available for purchase. Venue: Antique Alley Admission Cost: Free Phone: 800-843-1872 Web: www.christmasontheriver.org Louisiana State Games: Youth Football Championship Join the fun at the Louisiana State Games Youth Football Championship. This event will be taking place at various high school fields. Admission Cost: $350 per team, admission cost varies Web: www.louisianastategames.com November 29 Holiday Express Comes to Town Time: Train arrives at 4:00 p.m. The KCS Holiday Express will make a stop in Downtown Monroe. Don’t miss this festive six car train featuring the smiling tank car “Rudy;” a flatcar carrying Santa’s sleigh, reindeer and a miniature village; a ginger bread boxcar; an elves’ workshop; the reindeer stable; and a little red caboose. Guests are invited to tour the train and visit with Santa! This event will be great for the whole family! Venue: Third and DeSiard Street Admission Cost: Free Visit www.monroe-westmonroe. org for information about events in Ouachita Parish and visit www.rustonlincoln.com for events in Lincoln Parish.
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