BayouLife September 2017

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44 / LIVING THE FASHIONABLE LIFE Rheagan Sutton is Living the Fashionable Life at Nha Khanh Designs in Dallas 66 / CROWNING GLORY Dara Kent-Cobb Produces Heirloom Millinery with Her Company, Preston & Olivia 80 / CHRISTIEN KOLLECTION Christien McCray’s on a Mission to Take Bespoke Suits Beyond Black And Brown 94 / FASHION FOR THE AGES Pat Costanza Recounts More Than 40 Years in Fashion

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108 / MAKIING A STATEMENT Bayou Artist Cynthia Bailey Ryan Crafts Fashionable, One-of-a-Kind Jewelry 120 / TEAL ANNIE Stephanie Dugard Loves Turning the Old Into Something Fresh and New 150 / ONCE UPON A DREAM Photographer and Entrepreneur Savannah Kate Morgan 162 / GOOD JEANS Add Some Jean Therapy to Your Wardrobe 169 / SOUTHERN CHARM These Seven Ladies Exemplify the Best in Style and Grace

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178 / POP OF COLOR Punch Up Your Look This Fall

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BayouLife

CHOOL IS BACK IN

session, football is around the corner and fall trends are starting to show up in our local boutiques. Those of you who know me well, know that I am most comfortable in a pair of joggers (I have on my KEE KEE TEES joggers right now), a t-shirt and a baseball cap. But, I am not too prideful to step in one of our fabulous area boutiques and ask for guidance when I need to dress up for an event. I have friends all over the country who receive BayouLife in the mail and they always talk about how amazing our local retailers appear. And it’s true, the most fashionable people I know are right here in our little neck of the woods.

We are celebrating these fashion mavens in this month’s STYLE ISSUE. We picked seven ladies with unique styles who represent our community well, not only by the way they dress, but also their involvement in the enrichment of Northeast Louisiana. These Bayou Belles define what it means to be a Steel Magnolia, a Southern lady with classic beauty and undeniable grace. Read about them on page 169.

When Rheagan Sutton walked through the doors of BayouLife, I knew she was destined for something great. I was a little heartbroken when she moved to Los Angeles but knew that it meant great things for her. I was right; our little precious is now working along designer, Nha Khanh and living the fashionable life.

(Page 44) On a recent photo shoot, I met a sweet guy with a penchant for styling beautiful women. As we talked, I quickly realized how talented he was. Christian McCray, a self-taught tailor and Monroe native, is also an amazing designer of men’s suits and is planning the release of a women’s line. See his story on page 80.

Recently I walked in HerringStone’s and fell in love with a statement necklace hanging on a mannequin. I quickly asked who made it and was told it was one of Cynthia Bailey Ryan’s pieces. Not long

1201 Royal Avenue Monroe, LA 71201 Phone 318.855.3185 Fax 318.855.4645

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM PUBLISHER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com

after that, I spotted a necklace in Hemline that was equally as stunning, again it was one of Ryan’s creations. That is why she captured the spot as this month’s Bayou Artist. Her one-of-a-kind pieces are created alongside her daughters and are uniquely captivating. See her story on page 108.

There’s nothing I love more than a photo shoot with no air conditioning in an old building with dirt floors. Seriously, my favorite fashion shoots have always been the ones that are a little moody and this month’s jean shoot followed that trend.

Mallory Lynn and Martin Meyers teamed up for a little jean therapy in this month’s denim shoot. We had use of the old Poolside Shop and Southern Hardware building (where cool things are happening in the future). See it on page 162.

There are so many great articles this month. Make sure to read about Pat Constanza, this month’s BayouIcon on page 94 and local jewelry maker Stephanie Dugard on page 120. Mary Napoli visits the revived Cascio’s Chateau and gives us the dish on page 144, and Ellie Jackson wows us in our fashion shoot, A Pop of Color, on page 178.

We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of BayouLife Magazine. Thank you for supporting local businesses.

Peace and love!

Cassie

EDITOR Maré Brennan mare@bayoulifemag.com COPY EDITING Kelly Jones ART DIRECTOR Melanie Moffett melanie@bayoulifemag.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Katie Sloan katie@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Ashley Hubenthal ashley@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Amanda Singley amanda@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Savannah Starring savannah@bayoulifemag.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Nills Borquist Dan Chason Kenny Covington Lou Davenport Cindy Gist Foust April Honaker B. Jones Jennifer L. Dr. Bart Liles Paul Lipe

Erin Love Meredith McKinnie Dr. Timothy Mickel Guy Miller Kay Rector Delia Simpson P. Allen Smith Beatrice A. Tatem Analeise Thomas Vanelis Rivera

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Arender Scarlett Garcia Martin G. Meyers ON THE COVER Southern Charm.These seven ladies exemplify style and grace.

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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Autumn Ales

New and Seasonal Favorites from Your Favorite Brewers

BY DELIA SIMPSON, CRAFT, SPECIALTY, AND IMPORT MANAGER, CHOICE BRANDS, INC.

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ACH YEAR,THE ONSET OF THE fall season marks the return of some very popular seasonal brews. This year, some new (and returning favorites) join the crowd.

Here’s the 411 on what some of your favorite breweries have slated for their fall lineup.

BLUE MOON MANGO WHEAT, IBU: 19, ABV: 5.4%

It was on the beaches of Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cancun that brewmaster Keith Villa was struck with the idea for a refreshing new beer with a taste of ripe mangoes. Blue Moon Mango Wheat is created with mango and a hint of honey for a mild sweetness with a bright yellow-orange color and cloudy wheat haze. Originally only available in a variety pack, this crowd favorite will hit the shelves this month as a stand-alone six-pack and will be available year round. Pair this vibrant, fruity beer with shrimp or chicken, mango salsa, spicy curry, or French vanilla ice cream. To find Blue Moon Mango Wheat near you, visit www.bluemoonbrewingcompany. com.

SAM ADAMS OCTOBERFEST, IBU: 16, ABV: 5.3%

Although today’s German Oktoberfests have become much lighter in color, the original versions were known for their rich malt sweetness and body. Sam Adams OctoberFest pays homage to the Bavarian tradition by using generous portions of malt to create a rich smooth flavor with notes of caramel. It is a deep red amber color and features toasty notes of caramel. Pair with fall favorites such as French onion soup, crab

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cakes, and Mac and Cheese. To find Sam Adams Octoberfest near you, visit www.samueladams.com.

ABITA PEACH HARVEST, IBU: 15, ABV: 4.5%

Abita has always used Louisiana produce in its harvest series, but Abita Peach hits especially close to home with the addition of Ruston peaches to this smooth lager. Pale malt gives the beer a sweet, crisp taste, with abundant amounts of ripe, juicy peaches added in the brewhouse to capture the flavors and aromas of real, fresh fruit.

Harvest Series brews are like Louisiana in a glass. Pair Abita Peach with lighter fare such as salads and grilled fish or serve it up alongside a bubbly peach cobbler for dessert.

Abita Peach will be available through the fall.

To find it near you, visit www.abita.com.

ABITA PECAN, IBU: 20, ABV: 5.2%

A former member of the Abita Harvest lineup, Pecan Ale is making a triumphant return as their new fall seasonal. Abita Pecan Ale is made with real Louisiana roasted pecans for a subtle, nutty flavor and aroma.

It’s brewed with pale, Munich, biscuit, and caramel malts, and Wilamette hops. The roasted pecans are added in the brewhouse.

Crack one open and Geaux nuts! To find Abita Pecan near you, visit www.abita.com.

YUENGLING OKTOBERFEST, IBU: 14, ABV: 5.4%

Yuengling landed in Louisiana just over a year ago to a long awaiting audience. The rest has been history. As an homage to its

German heritage, America’s oldest brewery blends Tettnang and Hallertau hops to craft a brew that pairs well with German cuisine.

Copper in color, this medium-bodied beer serves up a slightly sweet, toasted character and mild herbal bitterness. It will be available in very limited quantities, so grab it while you can! To find Yuengling Oktoberfest near you, visit www.yuengling.com.

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 the date of the official 2017 Oktoberfest celebration held in Munich, Germany, which includes parades, food, music, and, of course, beer? Hint: It’s not in October! 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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Putting Your Best Foot Forward What Your Clothes Say About You

BY BEATRICE TATEM, PH.D., LPC-S, NCC, ACS

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Y “BIG MOM” ALWAYS encouraged me to do my best, to be my best and by all means to look my best. She would say, “always put your best foot forward because you never know who’s watching you.“ One of the many messages I heard early in life was first impressions are lasting impressions and if you look and behave well, you will be perceived in a favorable way and in turn feel good about yourself. For many, considering what is appropriate to wear begins when you are told to take off your school clothes to put on your play clothes. Many children begin to make clothing choices when playing dress up, ultimately imitating those in their lives who have made impressions on them.

He is sharp. She appears to be daring.

He looks studious. She looks classy. He is professional. He is not my type. I can tell she is confident. He must be an athlete. He is about business. She looks successful. He is a free spirit. Often quick judgments are made about people and the clothes they wear and yet there is much more to our clothing choices than what we might imagine. There are many reasons why we opt to wear what we wear.

For some, what they wear is merely a matter of habit, for others it is what is convenient or comfortable. Some people allow others to tell them what to wear or they wear what is dictated by the situation, circumstance or latest trend. Some put a lot of time into their appearance while others give it little thought.

Clothing can influence how we feel and what we think about ourselves. I was reminded of this fact when a teen client 12 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

came to my office sporting from his head to his toe name brand “gear” of his favorite clothing line. Proud of his attire he talked about the importance of his wearing name brand clothes in order to be accepted by peers. Understanding the significance of acceptance, this youth was encouraged to consider creating a personal “brand” reflecting his view of self. Using clothing brand as a metaphor he identified stately, integrity, smart, timely, clean cut and nice as characteristics he values for his personal “brand.“

In my role as therapist I tend to observe what I see outwardly with clients along with what they report. The other day I greeted a client who was looking extremely well with the comment, “You look bright and sunny in your yellow blouse.” She commented, “That is exactly why I wore it…I feel sunny and good today; how I feel impacts what I wear and what I wear affects how I feel.“ This client was indeed radiant and, unlike in recent sessions was glowing. According to some research there is a possible connection between clothing and one’s emotional state.

When we select a piece of clothing we often adopt some of the characteristics associated with it, which suggests we should wear clothing that correlates with happiness when needing a lift.

Suggested ways to put your best foot forward: Ask yourself, “Am I wearing my clothes or are they wearing me?” Make sure the clothes you wear look and feel good to you and on you. Dress to impress…wear clothing that makes the impression best

reflecting how you want to be perceived.

Ooze self-confidence and avoid comparing yourself to others; dress for yourself. Be mindful just because you can buy one size fits all does not mean you should. Make a statement by highlighting a natural feature unique to you. Clothing can reflect the journey our lives have taken; regularly update your wardrobe. Plan what you wear; feeling pulled together creates feelings of self-assurance. Recognize your wardrobe favorites. On a personal note I find myself wearing some pieces of clothing frequently. I jokingly refer to these items as my uniforms.

Be color mindful, dress in complimentary colors you like on you. Consider what your clothes might be saying about you… do they match your personality, body language and style? Be kind to yourself, avoid clothes that pull, ride up, chafe or cut.

The clothes we wear convey a great deal about who we are to strangers as well as those we interact with, ultimately projecting our self image. Yet clothing choices alone are seldom the sole determinant of how people are perceived. Our style and the clothes we choose reflect and affect our mood, health, personality, self-esteem and our interactions.

Whether you dream of walking the red carpet or not, own your style and always put your best foot forward.

For more information about counseling services and outreach programming contact Dr. Tatem at Wellness Initiatives, LLC 1900 North 18th Street, Suite 414, Monroe, La 71201, 318-410-1555 or at btatem.bt@gmail.com.

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Bayou Pages NIGHTSTANDS & COFFEE TABLES The Cosmic Serpent: DNA and the Origins of Knowledge by Jeremy Narby R EV I EW B Y N I LS I. B ORQUI ST

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t first glance, a book written with a focus on hallucinogenic substances and their potential impact on human knowledge would seem an unlikely source of quality information for many people. The notion that plant-based drugs with healing and psychedelic powers could be utilized by the masses in positive ways is certainly dismissed by a great many of the global population. However, author Jeremy Narby, in The Cosmic Serpent, presents a case for such a claim, and the story that unfolds in his text not only delves into the prospective positive application of widely unused plants for medicinal purposes, among other uses, but also examines issues ranging from environmental concerns to the shunning of indigenous peoples both in their homelands and abroad.

While undertaking his research for a Ph.D. in anthropology, Narby was to spend two years studying the Ashanincan peoples in the Quirishiri community within Amazonian Peru. While there to learn about these peoples and their customs, habits, and overall culture, Narby discovered the use of ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic concoction brewed by shamans. Skeptical of the teaching effects espoused by the shamans, Narby partook of the substance, and his future was changed, although it would be several years before he truly focused on the possible use of the visions experienced under the effects of the drink.

After completing his degree, Narby went home to Europe and worked for a company that helps struggling communities across the 14 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

world to progressively develop. His new job led him back to the Quirishiri, and it was while revisiting these peoples that a renewed interest in the medicinal and visionary qualities of plants and plant combinations was renewed.

Noticing that their culture was just one in a long line of primitive peoples who were either being taken advantage of or completely shunned by modern medicinal research, Narby believed that he may be able to help at least this one community receive monetary and scientific rewards for their millennia of research and practice. Since he did not know where to start, he pulled his notes from nearly a decade earlier and began poring over them; little did he realize the rabbit hole he was plunging into would alter his personal and professional lives.

Much of the remainder of Narby’s work centers on his deductive skills in attempting to determine a link between the beliefs of the Ashanincas, and, consequently, many ancient peoples who share similar practices and modern science. While performing his research and studies, Narby involves religion, mythology, medicine, anthropology, psychology and earth sciences to assist him in discovering an answer. The ultimate basis of the book and an idea that has led Narby to further his research for the past two decades, are the noticeable similarities between many ancient cultures’ depictions of snakes as gods. Oftentimes, the images presented show the animals in pairs of two, intertwined, resembling (or even alongside in some works) twisted rope ladders. When Narby considered the ideas that these snakes brought knowledge

about the inner workings of people and the natural world to humans, he also could not help but recognize how the paintings often looked like the double helix shape of DNA. Thus, the notion that these civilizations have been aware of such building blocks of living species for centuries, and how they are inexplicably linked across the board, gained momentum. It is a truly exciting concept, and even if untrue or read as fiction, the possibility is inarguably fun to contemplate.

Jeremy Narby brings interesting information to readers concerning the potential of true hallucinogenic substances to reveal the nature of the cosmos. Along the way, readers also learn about the horrific annihilation of great swaths of the rain forest, the hundreds and even thousands of cultures decimated in the process, and the tens or hundreds of thousands of plant and animal species undergoing termination. Readers realize that there is hidden knowledge that may be forever lost. This information that could possibly influence medical treatments in the years to come if only for sacrificing the need to destroy trees to build factories. There is a gained awareness that scientific practices might not always result in the best interests of the group, that monetary gains for a select few might have greater sway. The ethical issues that come from the research of Jeremy Narby and others like him should cause people to stop and consider all aspects. Perhaps we might not all agree that ingesting intoxicants is a good idea, but the destruction of the planet for financial gain should be possibly considered in the same light.

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Arrow Dental Center 5th Annual Dentistry From the Heart

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ENTISTRY FROM THE HEART IS AN ANNUAL EVENT Arrow Dental Center began hosting in 2013. Dr. Johnston has always looked for ways to give back to the community, and this is a way to do just that. We were amazed by the amount of community members who were in need of our services, and year after year, the number has grown. This event allows our office family, along with local dentists and dental specialists, dental staff members, and a variety of other volunteers to come together and provide these much needed services. Patients who are seen for Dentistry From the Heart are provided with x-rays, extractions of broken and painful teeth, or dental cleanings by licensed hygienists. We also provide information on available services provided by local institutions, such as the ULM Dental Hygiene Clinic, for patients who may need additional care.

Throughout the years many local dental professionals have volunteered their time and energy, earning nothing from providing dental care to those in need from our community except the satisfaction that comes from helping those who cannot afford proper treatment.

Arrow Dental Center is proud to host Dentistry From the Heart, but we would also like to mention those dental professionals who have helped year after year: • Dr. William Johnston - Arrow Dental Center • Dr. Lance Donald - Northeast Louisiana Endodontics • Dr. Carson Rutz - Monroe Endodontics • Dr. Heber Tuft - Tuft Pediatric Dentistry • Dr. Kevin Williams - Williams Orthodontics • Dr. Eric Lavespere - Periodontal Specialist • Dr. Jennifer Boles - Southern Smiles • Dr. Tim Perry - General Dentistry

Officer Mike Swallow from the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, local media outlets, and local businesses also participate by providing supplies, food for volunteers, and security for the event. Our dental supplier, Patterson Dental, always makes sure we have enough supplies to take care of our patients.

We would not be able to help as many individuals as we do without the support of our local dental professionals and businesses.

This event is a blessing to everyone who participates! The tears of joy, 16 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

appreciation, and gratitude we receive from our Dentistry From the Heart patients are priceless!

Every year patients begin arriving the day before Dentistry From the Heart to ensure they are early enough to be seen. Twenty-four hour security is provided courtesy of the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office. We do not take appointments for this day, and instead see patients on a first come, first serve basis. All patients have to be 18 years of age or older. We guarantee to see the first 70 patients but are available to see more as long as time allows. In past years we have been able to serve 100-150 patients just in one day! Each patient will be given a medical screening form to fill out and are asked to provide information about any medical conditions and medications they currently take.

Each patient waiting for a cleaning and/or extractions will have their blood pressure checked. We ask that anyone who takes medication, please take all medications as prescibed. We suggest anyone who plans on waiting to be seen, come prepared. You may wish to bring a lawn chair, water, snacks and anything that may keep you confortable while you wait. There will be 24-hour security for this event.

This year Arrow Dental has proudly welcomed a new dentist to our staff! Dr. Leigh Ann Robinson has already proven herself an asset to our office, and she will also be volunteering her services to treat patients for Dentistry From the Heart. We encourage everyone to spread the word of this great day to anyone who may be in need!

Arrow Dental Center wants Dentistry From the Heart 2017 to be the best year yet!

Arrow Dental offers a wide range of personalized dental care services to help patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. Their dedicated staff is highly trained in all areas of family and cosmetic dentistry and will provide the friendly and compassionate dental care you deserve. They work hard to provide a warm and welcoming environment for every patient. Both Dr. Johnston and Dr. Robinson take the time to discuss dental options with each patient one-on-one.

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Fashionable Wine and Spirits The Right Wine for the Right Occasion

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UST LIKE THE RIGHT PAIR OF SHOES, CUFF LINKS,TIE, purse or jewelry can be the perfect accessory that completes your look, so can the right bottle of wine. Whether you are bringing a bottle to a friendly backyard get together or a dinner party at the boss’s house, the right bottle of wine can leave quite an impression.

Below we have split some wines into four categories…

TRENDY ON A BUDGET

These following wines will not break the bank, but will show off an independent and unique sense of style with their exceptionally designed labels. Son of a Butcher pairs well with meats and has a fun label that will spark a conversation. Any of the Charles Smith wines, with names like Kung Fu Girl and The Velvet Devil and their signature black and white labels, bring contrast and fun. Lastly, Tenshen and Secret Squirrel have great labels that grab attention and you might make a friend if you call the winemaker’s cell number that comes printed on every bottle of Sexual Chocolate.

CLASSIC ON A BUDGET

Much like a little black dress never goes out of style, neither will these wines. With their classic labeling and varietal correct profile, Castle Rock, Nielson by Byron and Sean Minor are Pinot Noir’s that are sure to provide pleasure to your palate and your bank account.

Duckhorn and Saintsbury are two Chardonnay’s that will provide that classic taste while making your wallet smile. BR Cohn Silver Cabernet pairs perfectly with any cut of steak and is sure to satisfy. Classic labels and great prices will be stunning just like that little black dress.

TRENDY UPSCALE

These following selections will be the perfect accessory to this Fall’s latest fashion trends. With their interesting labels, and big fruit forward flavor D 66, Disciples, El Coco and GB Crane from Dave Phinney wines announce their presence with authority. Turnbull Black and Tuck Beckstoffer’s Mad Hatter have eye catching designs against black bottles that are sure to have people asking what’s in the bottle.

Shafer Hillside Cab, Relentless Syrah, One Point Five Cabernet and Red Shoulder Ranch Chard are bottles that anyone on the trendier side will be happy to be seen drinking. Just like the perfect purse or tie these wines are the perfect accessory to a great dinner experience.

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CLASSIC UPSCALE

Just like a black suit is to a timeless sophisticated wardrobe, these labels are to wine. They are timeless classics that are an essential piece of any wardrobe. Opus One 2013, which noted wine critic James Suckling said is the finest vintage produced from this fabled winery, would make a great accessory to any outfit. Penfold’s Grange 2010, which scored 100 points, is a stellar example of a timeless classic and is set in a beautiful wooden box to stand out. Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars is a longtime producer of classic Cabs, and their star is Cask 23. Italy has always been a center of fashion and wine, two things that, as you can see, go hand in hand. Much like their fine footwear, Sassicaia is known the world over for its world class wine. Heitz is responsible for the first single vineyard in California, and we are happy to announce that we have the Trailside Cab in the ‘05, ‘06, ‘07 and 2010 vintages. These are sure to drink fantastically for years to come.

LAGNIAPPE

For spirits lovers, we carry over 450 labels, and they range from everyday Vodka, such as Wheatley, to the highly sought after John Walker Odyssey Scotch, so we have you covered! We even have Medea Vodka which comes with a programmable LED screen that is sure to be the conversation centerpiece at your next get together.

Don’t forget that we now sell Doe’s Eat Place steaks uncooked at the shop for you to take home for your backyard BBQs and tailgates! We sell the standard cuts from the Doe’s menu but if you call ahead we will gladly custom cut a steak to your specification, and we also offer entire loins and ribeyes. Below are the standard cuts and before tax prices that we offer: 6 oz Filet - $9.75 10 oz Filet - $16.24 14 oz Bone-In Filet - $39.99 1.5 lb Bone In Strip - $20.99 20 oz Ribeye - $21.24 2 lb Bone In Ribeye - $35.98 1.5 lb T-Bone - $20.99 2 lb T-Bone - $27.98 2.5 lb Porterhouse - $39.98 3 lb Porterhouse - $47.97 2-5 lb Sirloin - $9.99/lb

Swing by and see the guys at Washington Wine and Spirits and let them fit you with that perfect bottle without all that uncomfortable inseam measuring.

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Audibel The Hearing Center Treatment of Hearing Loss Can Improve Quality of Life

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T WOULD SEEM THAT HEARING TREATMENT IS A second-rate priority when compared to vision in our visually oriented modern society. People with hearing loss delay hearing impairment treatment because they are unaware of the fact that receiving early hearing treatment has the potential to literally transform their lives.

Research by the National Council on the Aging on more than 2,000 people with hearing loss as well as their significant others demonstrated that hearing aids clearly are associated with impressive improvements in the social, emotional, psychological, and physical well-being of people with hearing loss in all hearing loss categories from mild to severe. Specifically, hearing aid usage is positively related to the following quality of life issues. Hearing loss treatment was shown to improve: • Earning power • Communication in relationships • I ntimacy and warmth in family relationships • Ease in communication • Emotional stability • Sense of control over life events • Perception of mental functioning • Physical health

At Audibel, we can help assess these issues and find the best hearing aid to fit your needs. Once you are fitted with the hearing aids, you will realize the hearing aids are put through a lot — earwax, sweat, dust, oil and sometimes water. While daily cleaning and regular service can help retain optimal hearing conditions and extend the life of your hearing aids, sometimes hearing aid repair is necessary. But before sending your hearing aids off for repair, check these common troubleshooting errors and solutions.

MY HEARING INSTRUMENT IS “DEAD”

A “dead” hearing aid is most often the result of a dead hearing aid battery or a blocked receiver tube. Try inserting fresh hearing aid batteries or cleaning the receiver tube of any earwax or other debris.

If the problem persists, then the hearing aid could be damaged or defective and might require professional hearing aid service.

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MY HEARING INSTRUMENT IS NOT LOUD ENOUGH

As you adjust to your hearing aids, you will begin to notice when changes in volume occur. First, check to ensure the hearing aids are free of any debris or blockage. Second, check your batteries.

A low battery can also result in fluctuating performance. If neither of these is the cause of the perceived change in volume, it is possible that your hearing has changed and you need to schedule an appointment with your hearing professional.

MY HEARING AIDS AREN’T PERFORMING CONSISTENTLY When your hearing aids seem to be inconsistent in sound quality or volume, it’s important to check your battery life. A hearing aid battery running low can result in inconsistent performance. Simply replace the battery with a fresh one to fix the issue.

THE SOUND IS DISTORTED OR UNCLEAR IN MY HEARING AIDS

When sound becomes distorted or unclear, it may be the result of a low battery, or something may have damaged the device. It is key to see your hearing professional as soon as possible if a new battery doesn’t fix a sound quality issue.

ABOUT US

Audibel The Hearing Center is Northeast Louisiana’s Audibel dispenser. Cherry Phillips, “The Hearing Lady,” has been serving this area for over 29 years. We offer free hearing screenings, free second opinions, extended warranties and repairs on all makes and brands of hearing aids. You can find out more by visiting our website www.AudibelMonroe.com and you can see more and like us on Facebook.com/AudibelMonroe.

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River Oaks School The Importance of Parental Involvement

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ARENTAL INVOLVEMENT IS ESSENTIAL TO THE SUCCESS at River Oaks. The overwhelming support of parents willing to give up their time continues to amaze recently named headmaster, Dr. David Nordman. At the recent parent orientation, over 30 new families were welcomed into the Mustang family for the 2017-2018 school year.

Nordman notes the continued sense of community he has experienced on a daily basis. Between parents and teachers, it’s been a steady flow of people asking him “How can I help?” The Board of Trustees makes sure things get done in a timely fashion. The members are directly involved with the school itself and are equally as impacted by the decisions they make. Some parental organizations include: ROMP, the River Oaks version of the PTO; a Booster Club for all athletics; an Academic Booster Club; Quarterback Club; Mustang Marketing Moms, a group that plans extracurricular social activities; and the Fine Arts Support for the strong arts department. Because there are so many ways to get involved as a parent, it’s not the same few people doing everything. With all the options, it’s just not possible.

There are 287 students currently enrolled for this year, though that number should increase with referrals. The school does recruit students via advertisements and relies heavily on word of mouth. Pleased parents tend to share with other parents. River Oaks is always looking for other avenues to expand the school brand and get the word out about the success of River Oaks. According to the ratings system of nonpublic schools, River Oaks ranks 14th best in K-12 schools in the state of Louisiana and is the highest ranked in Northeast Louisiana. The factors for these ratings include academic performance, athletic performance, parental involvement and teacher qualification.

The new school year is starting at River Oaks, and with this inception comes a new addition to the campus. Volunteers consisting of parents, coaches, and friends of River Oaks built a brand new softball field. A wooded lot was transformed into a beautiful, full-sized field with an 18-foot scoreboard on the way. This new scoreboard will be positioned in left center field.

The River Oaks faculty continues to expand clubs and organizations. One new group is The Future Healthcare Occupations of America (FHOA), similar to the Future Business Leaders of America.

Dr. Gary Stanley will spearhead this new group. One of the highlighted events of the year is the Quiz Bowl, where River Oaks students always compete strong. In this past year’s Spelling Bee, a River Oaks student placed ninth in the nation. She was on ESPN Live and made it to the 22 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

final round. Something especially unique to River Oaks School is the Big Brother/Big Sister program. It strongly connects the upper and lower schools and pairs like-minded students together based on shared interests. Mentors are essential to a lower level student’s development.

Likewise, serving as a mentor keeps upper level students responsible and maintains an awareness of their role in the school community. Many students participate in the regional literary rally and almost as many of them qualify for state each year. This scholastic success serves as a testament to the academic productivity at River Oaks.

The faculty at River Oaks really takes on ownership of the school.

In addition to the clubs and organizations, athletic and spirit groups are heavily populated for the school size; and each faculty member takes responsibility for at least one. Some of the groups are basketball, swimming, soccer, softball, baseball, golf, tennis, track, cheer, dance lines, pep squad, and a drum line. With only 287 students, to have that many groups populated and sponsored by faculty members takes extra time and dedication outside the classroom.

The administration and faculty at RO make a concentrated effort to stay in communication with the school community. All students, staff and parents are on the romustangs.com website. The CD-ROM, a report of the last week’s and upcoming week’s activities, is sent out via email each Monday. The Student Information System is Rediker, and parents can log on and get their students’ assignments. More portals exist for checking on student grades, attendance, and more. Several RO Facebook pages exist for different clubs and organizations to stay in contact. RO is also present on Twitter and Instagram.

So why should parents invest in River Oaks for their child’s education? The first is safety. The sense of community is greater in a private school, and with parental involvement, everyone knows everybody, knows their names, making it a little more difficult for strife to manifest. The second reason is academics. The level of rigor is higher in a private school as is the level of expectation. The curriculum will not be watered down to a student’s level. The student must rise to the level of expectation. And finally, the student to teacher ratio is 15:1 or less. Teachers are better able to provide the time and attention students need to meet that level of expectation. With something as imperative as your child’s future, his or her education is paramount, and River Oaks continues to provide the means for the utmost student success in Northeast Louisiana.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 23

Borage

Fall Lawn Care ARTICLE BY P. ALLEN SMITH

The Terrace Garden and lawn at Moss Mountain Farm

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hen the cool breezes start to blow at nightfall, they bring with them a calming sense of renewal. The grass starts to green up again, fall-blooming perennials load up with buds ready to burst, and my vegetable garden overflows with produce.

A healthy, green lawn is an important element of my landscape design at Moss Mountain Farm. The beautiful, lush lawn really sets off my colorful flower borders. I don’t mind spending the time now to complete the fall lawn maintenance tasks of fertilizing, treating for weeds and over-seeding the thin spots to keep the lawn healthy going into winter. Early fall is the most important time to fertilize lawns in this part of the South, and doing so will reward you with a greener, healthier lawn next spring.

Q: The weeds in my lawn have taken over!

What can I do to stop them?

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It seems weeds always grow faster than the plants we actually want to grow. That is certainly the case with lawn weeds. Now I’ll be the first to admit, I actually let clover grow in my lawn. As far back as Roosevelt, clover seed was included in many lawn seed mixes, because it is drought tolerant, resists nearly all lawn pests and diseases, feeds the bees with its blooms and fixes its own nitrogen in the soil so it’s always green.

Weeds, like chickweed, hairy bittercress and ground ivy, really need to be kept under control, or they will eventually take over. If there aren’t too many yet, you might prefer to dig them out by hand to avoid using herbicides. There are organic and synthetic options for spot-treating weeds too, which eliminates the need for a blanket application of weed-and-feed. If your lawn has more weeds than grass, you might want to contact a professional to perform a one-time “rescue operation” to get your weeds under control.

Q: My lawn has been quite brown all

summer, but it’s finally starting to come back now that we’re getting into the fall months.

What should I do to it now so that it looks good next year?

You’re smart to think ahead when it comes to the health of your lawn. An ounce of prevention leads to a pound of cure, as they say. If you plan to care for your lawn yourself, the first thing I recommend is that you get a soil test from a Cooperative Extension Service office near you. The test is usually free or offered for a very low cost, and the report will tell you exactly which nutrients your lawn needs to grow better. Do that before you head to the store and are faced with a mountain of choices in fall lawn care products. Once you know what kind of fertilizer is needed, apply it in early fall to give your lawn a chance to regrow a healthy root system before winter.

The summers are so hot here that many people let their lawn go dormant, which gives it that overall brown cast. Don’t worry — it’s not a lost cause, at least not yet! Once our temperatures ease up, start watering your

lawn regularly to encourage it to “green up” for the fall and early winter months. The combination of fall fertilization and watering will help your lawn go into winter healthy, so it emerges strong next spring.

Q: We’ve recently cleaned out a corner of our yard, and we would like to plant new grass there before the winter comes. What kind of grass seed would you recommend?

The north Louisiana climate calls for warm season grasses, so the grass seed mixes sold here typically contain a blend of varieties. Bermuda, centipede, St. Augustine, and zoysia grasses are popular choices. State law requires that all grass seed mixes are labeled with their exact contents, so check to make sure it contains the varieties you need before you buy it.

Q: Do I have to rake the leaves off of my lawn in the fall, or can I leave them there to decompose on their own?

Leaves are one of Mother Nature’s most valuable resources, yet so many people are adamant about raking every last leaf off the ground in fall. Did you know that studies have shown that mulching leaves into your lawn over a period of three years can virtually eliminate dandelions and crabgrass? So set your mower deck up high, and take a few passes over your fallen leaves this fall instead of raking them every week. The little shreds of leaves will filter down into the soil, smother any weed seeds and add essential nutrients to the earth.

Photo credits: The Terrace Garden and Lvvawn at Moss Mountain Farm – Photographer, Mark Fonville P. Allen Smith is an author, television host and conservationist with a passion for American style. His show “Garden Home” airs on LPB, KLTM, KLPA and AETN. Check your local listings for “Garden Style.” Smith uses his Arkansas home, Moss Mountain Farm, as an epicenter for promoting the local food movement, organic gardening and the preservation of heritage poultry breeds. He created his farm to serve as a place of inspiration, education and conservation and provides visitors from around the country with tours of his property, which may be booked at pallensmith.com/tours.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 25

I REMEMBER finding the one who can help a r t i cl e by PAUL L I PE

I REMEMBER the frustration I felt when I was having great difficulty

of wonderful times we shared, and I am grateful that the Lord gave making contact with the person whose assistance I desperately needed. me such awesome friends with whom to labor in His Kingdom’s work.

This all took place decades ago when I first came to Delhi to serve as Both Pete and Beverly have been dead now for over 10 years, and they student pastor at the Presbyterian Church during the summer of 1960. I are sorely missed by the community, the church and my family. was such a novice that the officers noticed right away that I would need Have you experienced the difficulty of finding someone you needed, a lot of support if I were to handle my responsibilities, so they assigned someone whose presence and help would make all the difference in a “pastor’s aide” to help me survive. I was told to call her if I had any your life? I suspect that many of us have found ourselves in situations problems or questions. that have overwhelmed us, causing Well, it wasn’t long before I us to wonder, “Where is there needed some direction. However, someone who can help me?” Perhaps when I tried to find her phone such dark hours come when we lose number in the phone directory (that our job, or when we hear the doctor was before cell phones and a time say, “I’m sorry; I did all I could do,” when everyone actually used a land or when a friend betrays us, or when line), I was stumped. The pastor’s we see reports of yet another terrorist aide was named “Beverly,” the wife attack on innocent individuals. of a man who had been introduced There is so much in our world that to me as “Pete.” I began searching can drive one to despair, that can the directory for her number. prompt one to cry out, “God, where Initially, my difficulty had to do are You?” You search, but in vain; with their last name. It sounded making contact with Him seems so like “McCann,” but when I checked difficult. the phone book, I came up empty.

How, where can one find Him? There were no “McCann” names I searched for and finally found the listed. After making some inquiries, “HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED THE DIFFICULTY McEacharns via the phone book.

I finally discovered that Pete’s last Fortunately, there is another Book OF FINDING SOMEONE WHOM YOU name was rendered “McEacharn.” where one can discover help for any NEEDED, SOMEONE WHOSE PRESENCE Now I was getting somewhere. crisis, any need. This Book tells us AND HELP WOULD MAKE ALL THE However, when I searched Who He is and explains what He for the phone number of “Pete expects and requires of us. Through DIFFERENCE IN YOUR LIFE?” McEacharn,” I drew another blank. this Book, an individual can establish Consternation! I did some more digging and learned that “Pete” was a personal affiliation with THE Helper. not really his name – he was, in fact, “Malcolm McEacharn.” I suppose I My contact with the McEacharns was not just when I needed their was too embarrassed to ask because I never did learn how it came about help, but developed into a lasting friendship, a relationship that touched that everyone called him “Pete.”Anyway, the mystery was solved and I my life on a regular basis. God desires a similar relationship with us, was able to get in touch with my helper. one that involves daily contact rather than an “in-emergency-only” sort

As it turned out, all the aggravation of searching for that phone of connection. One essential in maintaining such a bond is consistent number was well worth the effort. Not only was my immediate attention to His Word. I encourage that practice – it will not only enable difficulty resolved, but a relationship began that impacted my life in you to make contact with Someone Who can help you, it will provide remarkable ways. Pete became one of the best friends I ever had and direction that will guide you in paths that will please Him. gave me some of the wisest counsel and the greatest encouragement a person could ever want. How poorer my life would have been had I not been able to find that elusive phone number! I have countless memories 28 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Alumni Spotlight ULM Alumnae: Cindy Stone and Debbie Herrington

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INDY STONE AND DEBBIE HERRINGTON ARE A perfect example of entrepreneurial spirit, generosity and success, all in their own hometown. These sisters were born and raised in West Monroe, Louisiana, and now oversee three successful clothing boutiques across the state of Louisiana. And it all started at the University of Louisiana Monroe (formerly known as Northeast Louisiana University).

After graduating from West Monroe High School, Cindy Stone enrolled at the university in 1979. “It was such a great time to be a part of the college,” says Cindy. “Everyone was involved and participated in events. From athletic events to concerts on campus, we built such a great camaraderie in the student body.” Cindy, an Elementary Education major, danced as a Warbonnet all four years, leading the team as a co-captain her junior year and captain her senior year. “It was amazing to be on the field of Malone Stadium and look up and see people packed to the top,” recalls Cindy, who also participated in the spirit group for the basketball team and led drill team camps in the summer for local and regional high school groups.

Just two years later in 1985, Debbie joined her sister at the university as a Fashion Merchandising major and the two danced along side each other on the Warbonnet team. Debbie also became a member of Phi Mu sorority and was very active on campus as well. She delved into her classes, soaking up as much knowledge as possible to fulfill her dream. “I had always dreamed of owning my own boutique and always had a fascination with fashion,” says Debbie. “As a little girl, I would write out the outfits that I planned to wear each month. But I didn’t have an extensive wardrobe so I would figure out different ways to wear things and mix and match. But I never wore the same thing in a month!”

Cindy graduated in 1983 and started a career in education. When Debbie graduated in 1985, she worked in the fashion industry as a buyer. There she gained experience in merchandising and a true understanding of the fashion industry. She still yearned to own her own boutique, and in 1989, an opportunity presented itself. “A local boutique was available to purchase with two locations, one on Forsythe and one in the mall,” says Debbie. “So Cindy joined me and we each ran a location. And that is how HerringStone’s was born.”

Cindy operated the store in the mall for two years, and then they consolidated and ran the flagship shop on Forsythe together. And just 30 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

as Debbie and Cindy had experienced the pomp and circumstance of football games and homecoming at college, they continue the tradition as their store has become known as homecoming headquarters in the fall. “Girls needed suits and we paired skirts and jackets to give them an updated, youthful look,” recalls Debbie. “It was hard to find so we definitely filled a need. And two decades later, we are still dressing girls on homecoming courts…and their moms!”

Debbie’s daughter, Hanna Herrington Lavergne, a 2009 graduate of the University of Louisiana Monroe, opened a second HerringSone’s location in Lafayette. This year, they brought Monroe native Claire Kostelka on board to open a third store, Heirloom by HerringStone’s, in Youngsville, Louisiana.

Over the last 28 years, since they first opened their doors, Debbie and Cindy have used the foundation of their college education and experience to build their business. “Not only do I still use those core lessons and basic knowledge on a daily basis, but we embrace the university as part of our community,” says Debbie. “We think it is so important to stay connected and appreciate the treasure that we have in our own backyard.” Debbie and Cindy have remained connected by speaking to classes about their experience, attending athletic events and donating to fundraisers and special events. “Whether you went to NLU or ULM, the university is a part of your life and your community and we have to embrace that,” says Cindy. “We have such great memories and experiences from our time and are excited to be able to give back and allow a new generation to have those same experiences to treasure for a lifetime.”

The ULM Alumni Association reaches, connects and celebrates alumni and friends to build lifelong relationships, and commit to the university’s missions of academic freedom, scholarship, diversity, excellence, integrity and service. We represent alumni who honor the traditions of our university and who share a sense of achievement and pride. We create a network of professionals, establish scholarships and advocate for our university through community engagement. Members of the Alumni Association, like Debbie and Cindy, support countless initiatives, and annual memberships are just $35. To learn more or to become a member, please visit our new alumni network at ulm.edu/alumni.

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Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School Paving the Way with an Annual Fund WHAT IS THE JGS ANNUAL FUND?

Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School will continue its yearly giving program, The JGS Annual Fund, which has replaced its fall fundraising events of years past. An annual fund is an effort on the part of a school to establish one major fundraising campaign that lasts throughout the year which can produce better results than many small fundraisers. Traditionally, established institutions have strong annual funds and JGS should be no different.

HOW WILL THE FUND BE DISTRIBUTED AND WHAT IS OUR ANNUAL GOAL?

Our annual fund goal this year is $80,000. The goal of the JGS Annual Fund is to develop a loyal constituency of annual donors in order to maintain and improve the overall operations of Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School. Revenue from the JGS Annual Fund is part of the operating budget of the school with any excess going toward capital improvements. The collected funds are distributed between, but not limited to, tuition assistance, teacher retention and benefits and capital improvements. Fifty-eight percent of the 2016-17 annual fund was used toward upgrading security fencing, classroom technology and playground equipment as well as absorbing the unexpected cost of a new AC unit for the school cafeteria. Eleven and 19 percent, respectively, went toward teacher retention/benefits and tuition assistance. It is our hope that the 2017-18 JGS School Annual Fund campaign will be equally successful.

HOW CAN I MAKE A DONATION?

Opportunities to support the JGS School Annual Fund are limitless. Donations can be made all at once or over the course of the school year and all JGS Annual Fund donations are 100% tax deductible. For instance, a donation of $30 per month over a 10-month period will add up to a total of $300. Donations can also be made through employee matching. Therefore, if an employee donates a gift of $500, their employer will match $500 through a one-to-one matching fund program. Donors who are interested in this form of donation should contact their personnel offices for more information. Those who donate will be eligible to become part of the JGS 1960 Society or the JGS Ram Loyalty Club, depending on the size of their donation.

These donor organizations are meant to offer a way for supporters of 32 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

JGS to feel a sense of affinity and belonging to our school family. Each donation makes a difference in our ability to reach our annual fund goal.

WHO WILL BE NAMED “JGS TAILGATE CHAMPION?

This year’s annual fund is centered around a friendly college football competition. When making a donation to the JGS School Annual Fund, donors will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite college football team on the JGS Annual Fund Donor Card.

The winning football team at the end of the annual fund campaign will be announced at this year’s Fall Festival Celebration and will have their game televised at the “JGS Tailgate Champion” party.

Donors contributing $500 and above in donations will be invited to the private celebration at Flying Tiger Brewery! It is sure to be an exciting competition!

WHY SUPPORT THE JGS ANNUAL FUND?

By supporting the JGS School Annual Fund, you will be actively participating in the advancement of our school’s mission and vision for the future. Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School has made a difference in the lives of children for over 50 years and we pray that we can continue to provide a safe environment of learning, faith, love, leadership and service. On this month’s JGS ad you will find a detachable donation card that may be returned to the school office with your annual fund donation. Your donation will also count as a vote for your favorite college football team if you choose to participate.

We ask that you prayerfully consider contributing to the JGS School Annual Fund and to the betterment of our future. We recognize that a donation of any size is a personal decision, so please know that your generosity, in any form, is always meaningful and genuinely appreciated and we thank you in advance for your investment in the mission and future of Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School.

Families interested in finding out more about Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School are encouraged to visit our website, www.jesusgoodshepherd. org, and Facebook page or contact the school office directly at 318-325-8569 to schedule a tour with our principal, Mrs. Lisa Patrick. Tours are given every Tuesday at 9:00 a.m. and by appointment.

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Marsala Beverage Company Louisiana Craft Beer Week to be Held September 18-22 Great Raft Brewing – Shreveport LA

Great Raft Brewing’s mission is to create fresh craft beer that complements the lifestyles and cultures of Louisiana. Our beer is complex, inspired, bold and plentiful, providing our customers a beer experience unlike any other.

Southern people enjoy spicy, flavorful food and Great Raft beer not only stands up to the bold flavors in our cooking, but complements it as well. Great Raft Brewing was founded on the principle of brewing what we call “Real Beer.” Real Beer is brewed with creativity, passion, and authenticity. Our beer is brewed with creativity that pushes the boundaries of style, a passion for greatness, and authentic, quality ingredients.

also firmly believe in increasing craft beer market awareness in Louisiana by creating and delivering great tasting beers.

Red River Brewing Company – Shreveport, LA

Red River Brewing Company LLC was founded in 2009 in a local garage. Two friends’ dreams of bringing local beer to Northwest Louisiana soon became three guys brewing at all hours of the night, perfecting flavors and crafting recipes. With roots in the local home brewing community, our mission is to bring high quality local beer to high quality local people….or vagrants like us, too.

Covington Brewhouse – Covington, LA Covington Brewhouse is result of a scientist and a rock n roll brewmaster buying the best kept secret in downtown Covington, Louisiana. Our Brewery, located on the beautiful north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, carries on that proud “local” brewing tradition as a contributor to the present-day American craft beer renaissance. Our beers, which exemplify another of Louisiana’s unique “local flavors,” not only pair well with the amazing local cuisine, but stand on their own with distinctive taste and character.

Chafunkta Brewing Company – Mandeville, LA Chafunkta Brewing Company is a Nanobrewery formed by Jamie and Josh Erickson in June of 2011. Chafunkta Brewing Company was born from their shared interest and passion for brewing great craft beer.

They started CBC with the hopes of doing something for a living that they both truly loved and enjoyed with great passion. They 34 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Tin Roof Beer – Baton Rouge, LA

Tin Roof beers are handcrafted in Baton Rouge, using only the finest American and European malts, freshest hops and pure parish well water. No preservatives or additives are ever used. This means you enjoy the natural flavor of the beer the way it was intended.

Every batch of Tin Roof beer is brewed with an uncompromising commitment to exceptional quality. This gives our beer a consistent, delicious and unmistakable Southern charm you’ll know it when you taste it.

Bayou Teche Brewing – Arnaudville, LA Returning to America after a six year deployment in West Germany, our brewmaster dreamed of creating a beer that would pair with the Cajun cuisine he grew up eating.

Living in Europe, he had learned to appreciate the regional foods and beers of many countries, and how they had evolved to complement

each other. Taking up brewing beer at home, he taught himself to make several styles of these beers, fine-tuning recipes until he was satisfied. After returning to Arnaudville, he taught his brothers and collaborating they brewed commemorative batches of beer for their family’s holiday meals.

Bayou Teche Brewing was founded on this simple dream – to craft beers that compliment the cuisine and lifestyle of Cajuns and Creoles.

With that mission, the Knott brothers decided on St. Patrick’s Day in 2009 to convert a discarded rail road car into a farmhouse brewery.

Parish Brewing Company – Broussard, LA

Located in the heart of Cajun Country, our simple goal is to make awesome craft brewed beer. But, our story begins around 2003 when our founder Andrew moved from Louisiana to Pittsburgh and discovered a thriving craft beer scene. Returning home a few years later, he recognized a lack of breweries in Louisiana and set out to create part of what is now a thriving brewing industry. Our first beer ever sold was Canebrake, and it was a huge hit from the start.

Ouachita Brewing Company – Monroe, LA Our story is pretty simple. Owner Heath Lord became a lover of beer during his time traveling and wanted to bring some of his experiences back home to Louisiana. Soon after, Ouachita Brewing Company was born.

“We started serving at special events and even started a homebrew club. We enjoyed participating and learning about the craft.”

We hope to share our love of beer with the community as well as the surrounding areas.

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F O CU S AN D

STOP WASTING TIME!

by Erin Sharplin Love erinlove@panachebyerin.com

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o you have a “word of the year?” If not, do you know why it is important to have one if you want to make a positive change in your life? I can tell you that such a word empowers you to focus on BEING. If you stop to think about it, many words really have no meaning without INTENT and subsequent ACTION. To experience change, you must incorporate a word’s meaning into your belief system and live by it every day. So if you want to BE courageous, for example, your word of the year could be “BRAVE.” The amazing part is once you choose a word and start living with it, your world will shift positively a little at a time because your word will be part of you, and you will see it reflected in everything you think or do.

With that said, my word for this year is FOCUS! As a mom, wife, daughter, business owner, office manager, friend, pet owner and personal growth enthusiast, I never got everything done in a way that made me happy and whole. I knew that I wanted to be more efficient and successful. In the end, the only way I could do that was to FOCUS. Now I want to share my tips on how I was able to do so and stop wasting time.

• Silence your cell phone! The number one tip that I started to implement into my routine was to silence my cell phone periodically. For instance, during dinner with my family, there is no cell phone use. When I am writing an article, such as during this moment, I turn the ringer of my cell phone off so there are no distractions. When are your most important times and how can you implement this tip?

• Clean and organize your space(s). Whether it is your work desk, your family playroom, and/or your kitchen, nothing wastes time more than having to search for an item that has disappeared into a cluttered pile. Make sure you take the time to clear and organize your spaces. You will feel and see the difference it makes in your schedule almost immediately.

• Keep a notebook handy. While you are focused on one action, more than likely something else you need to do will pop into your mind. Acknowledge the thought, but get it out of your head by writing it down in a notebook. Then you can refer back to the notebook when your current task has been completed.

• Take a break. If possible, take a break between each task. This will keep you motivated and deter burnout. I like to take a quick walk or simply fix a cup of tea or coffee to enjoy for 10 minutes. It’s all

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•

•

•

• •

•

about focusing on the break, though! Everything you do should come with focus. Try not to think of anything else but the task at hand. I know this is hard, but it can be done. It just takes practice.

For instance, if you are playing with your children, that should be the only thing you are focused on in that moment. Just set realistic timers for moving on to the next task.

Delegate! I will admit that this one is hard for me. I feel like I need to be the one to do it if I want it to be done right. (Yes! I am one of those people). However, many tasks are menial and can and should be delegated to make the best use of your time. Take note of which tasks you can delegate.

Track your time. A good way to see where your time is actually going is to keep track of what you are doing hour to hour. It will help you to see where the bulk of your time is being wasted, so you can eliminate the problem before it happens next time.

Batch similar tasks. For instance, make and return all phone calls at the same time every day. This also works with emails! The trick is to train yourself not to check your emails throughout the rest of the day. Run all of your errands while you are out and about instead of making multiple trips.

Stop Multitasking! Multitasking is a time waster! You can’t do two, or more, things at one time and do them well. Focus on one task at a time and then move on to the next task.

Prioritize. I suggest making a to-do list each morning and grouping items into three different categories – MUST, NEED and WANT. Obviously, the MUST do tasks should be the first things you complete.

Discover your “prime time.” Are you a morning person or do you seem to get more done in the evening? I used to be a night owl, but kids can quickly turn that around! Now, my prime time is early morning or early afternoon. For instance, it is 2 p.m. while I am writing this article.

FOCUSing is now enjoyable and fun for me, but had I not made it my word of the year, I may still be trying to tackle my to-do lists dazed and confused. I hope this article inspires you to focus, to stop wasting time and to create a word of the year! If you want to share your word of the year with me, email me at erinlove@panachebyerin.com.

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Cross Keys Bank The Bank You Can Trust

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S ONLINE SECURITY BREACHES CONTINUE TO MAKE headlines, website security has become an urgent concern for financial institutions and their customers. Because our customers and their information are top-priority, Cross Keys Bank has made the transition from crosskeysbank.com to crosskeys.bank. Dotbank is only available to verified financial institutions. This domain will benefit from increased monitoring, protection, and protocols that will strengthen consumer protection against internet fraud.

“The dot-bank domain is recognized as the global platform for growth and innovation in the financial services industry. According to the most recent report published by the Anti-Phishing Working Group, payments and financial services sectors were the targets of nearly 67 percent of all phishing attacks in 2014,” explained eBanking Officer Kristen VandeVen, “This trusted home on the internet serves as a solid foundation for banks to securely and effectively communicate with customers, stakeholders and regulators.”

The dot-bank domain is under the control of fTLD Registry Services, a private company owned by the American Bankers Association, the Financial Services Round Table, and other corporate banking and insurance investors. As of March 2017, more than 2,400 banks and savings associations in the US registered nearly 4,900 dotbank domain names, and more than 300 of these domain names are actively being used. The change from dot-com to dot-bank signifies yet another step the financial industry is taking to improve cybersecurity.

Under the dot-com domain, website administrators have no control if scammers use a web address with similar words or phrasing to their own. Bank customers could receive phishing emails directing them to a spoofed website developed by cyber criminals to mimic a bank’s real website. If customers enter their online banking login credentials, criminals can capture their information and use it to abduct the account through the real site. Since only registered financial institutions are able to register for dot-bank, there is no risk of scammers cloning websites using dot-bank to steal bank customers’ information.

With financial management becoming increasingly available online, our institution will continue to adopt new technologies that offer convenience and capability to our customers while ensuring added security benefits for peace of mind. VandeVen said, “Having a dot-bank domain is NOT a requirement and it’s considerably more 38 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

expensive than a regular dot-com url. BUT we feel that Cross Keys customers are worth it...their security is first and foremost.” Our mission at Cross Keys Bank is to help our customers succeed. By their success, we will succeed!

KASASA

With Kasasa Checking at Cross Keys Bank, get rewards on everyday debit card purchases and receive ATM and Bill Pay refunds on qualified accounts. Choose between Kasasa Cash and Kasasa Cash back, and have the option of pairing either of these accounts with Kasasa Saver — a high-interest savings account into which rewards are automatically deposited to help you save.

Kasasa Cash is a checking account that rewards you by earning interest at a high rate. Also, you get up to $25 in ATM withdrawal fee refunds nationwide and there’s no minimum balance to earn rewards.

Kasasa Cash Back is a checking account that rewards you with cash back on your debit card purchases. And not just cash back on gas, groceries or restaurants. Also, you get up to $25 in ATM withdrawal fee refunds nationwide and there’s no minimum balance to earn rewards.

Kasasa Saver is a savings account that you can link to your Kasasa Cash or Kasasa Cash Back account for easy, high-paying savings. Your Kasasa Cash interest and ATM withdrawal fee refunds are deposited to your Kasasa Cash account at the end of the cycle and are transferred to your Kasasa Saver account the following day. Your Kasasa Cash Back rewards and ATM withdrawal fee refunds automatically transfer to your Kasasa Saver account at the end of the cycle. This allows you to set aside more cash each month.

It’s easy to qualify. As a matter of fact, you’re probably already doing it! To earn your rewards, simply do the following activities and transactions in your Kasasa Cash or Kasasa Cash Back account during each Monthly Qualification Cycle: have at least one ACH credit or debit transaction post and settle; have at least 12 debit card purchases post and settle; and be enrolled and log into online banking.

Why wait when you can earn? Stop by your local Cross Keys Bank location to get started.

Other rules and restrictions may apply. Please visit www. crosskeys.bank or your local branch for more information.

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Custom Cataract Surgery Haik Humble Eye Center

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HE LATEST INNOVATION IN CATARACT SURGERY IS now available at Haik Humble Eye Center. For more than three decades, the practice has offered leading edge cataract care for area patients. The practice has once again upgraded its cataract surgery technology to give patients the opportunity to achieve better vision than with standard cataract surgery.

Customized cataract surgery with the combination of the ORA System™ and Verion Image Guided System™ is now available exclusively at Haik Humble Eye Center. ORA (Optiwave Refractive Analysis) is a big advancement in cataract surgery – it is a device used in surgery that acts like a GPS for the surgeon. It is a revolutionary new way to analyze your eye during cataract surgery.

Verion provides advanced eye imaging, mapping and incision guidance technology that allows surgeons to better plan and perform some of the most challenging steps of cataract surgery with automation and a high degree of precision.

Cataracts – clouding of the eye’s natural lens – cause vision to become increasingly blurry or hazy, colors look faded, and night vision becomes difficult. Cataracts must be removed surgically, which involves removing the eye’s natural lens and replacing it with an artificial one.

Because each person’s eye is different, ORA-guided cataract surgery allows the doctor to tailor the treatment to each individual patient’s eyes by carefully measuring and mapping the eye prior to surgery. With the combination of the precision of the ORA as well as the planned accuracy of the Verion, Dr. Thomas Parker and his fellow ophthalmologists, including Dr. Baron Williamson and Dr. Drew Thomas, say patients can expect more customized, precise vision results.

“With the vast number of people in our area having cataract surgery each year, we’re extremely proud to introduce these innovative technologies,” said Dr. Parker. “When you combine the benefits of ORA and Verion with our cataract lens implant technology, patients can feel confident they’ll receive the best possible results.”

HOW THE ORA SYSTEM™ WORKS

ORA technology analyzes many possible imperfections of the way light passes through the eye to the retina. ORA incorporates many more parameters than previous methods to measure the eye, and it is much more dynamic. This data gives surgeons a real-time snapshot of the eye’s unique optical characteristics, including the imperfections caused by the cataract.

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After the cataract is removed and the new lens is implanted, ORA can tell if the eye is in focus. If it’s not, the system helps the surgeon focus the eye. Depending on each patient’s specific situation, this may involve refining the new lens power, altering the placement and formation of the incisions, or selecting a different lens.

With ORA, this verification can now take place during surgery.

This innovation reduces the possibility that adjustments will need to be made later. With standard cataract surgery, additional vision issues must be corrected in separate procedures.

HOW THE VERION SYSTEM WORKS

Verion is designed to minimize chances for errors by creating a seamless link between data generated at the clinic and the operating room. This helps improve the quality and accuracy of cataract surgery.

The Verion technology aims to improve this by using patients’ unique eye data as a reference in the planning and execution of the surgery.

BENEFITS OF THE ORA AND VERION SYSTEMS

There are many important benefits to having the ORA and Verion technologies included as part of your custom cataract surgery. These include: • ORA and Verion may help your surgeon achieve better results and provide you an improved quality of vision.

• O RA and Verion give your surgeon an added level of confirmation for an optimal outcome.

• If you have astigmatism, ORA and Verion may improve the accuracy of your correction to help reduce the chance you’ll need to wear eyeglasses after your procedure.

Having the ability to measure, refine and verify outcomes during surgery allows the surgeons at Haik Humble Eye Center to take cataract surgery to an entirely new level.

Cataract surgery used to be about preventing blindness, but with today’s sophisticated cataract removal systems, premium intraocular lenses and guidance from the ORA and Verion Systems, your surgeon may return your vision to the way it was years ago.

For more information about custom cataract surgery, please call Haik Humble Eye Center at 318-325-2610.

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living the

F A S H I O N A B L E L I F E

LOUISIANA NATIVE RHEAGAN SUTTON has two very diverse roles at the headquarters of Nha Khanh Designs, a luxury women’s apparel company in Dallas, Texas.

Her primary position is that of marketing professional, promoting the haute couture of the design house’s signature clothing line. Yet it is not unusual to find her at a photo shoot, modeling a gown from the latest Nha Khanh collection.

Established in 2010, Nha Khanh Designs quickly became a leader in the fashion industry. Nha Khanh’s distinctive designs are frequently donned by celebrities and appear regularly on Hollywood red carpets and runways. Shoppers can find Nha Khanh’s popular evening gowns and party dresses at upscale department stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. With a view toward providing glamorous but simple clothing options for women, the company’s founder and creative director, Khanh Nguyen, developed a style she describes as “feminine elegance with a modern edge.” A classic example is Nha Khanh’s signature “Milace” dress, a flattering lace dress with a mini tulle skirt.

In her position with Nha Khanh, Sutton is charged with promoting the designer’s label through the use of multiple media outlets and promotional events. “What I do is fashion PR,” Sutton explains. “I handle all of Nha Khanh’s Instagram accounts and Facebook accounts.

Anything that has to do with social media or events, I am in there.” Sutton says that she is in the process of developing the company’s internal Public Relations department. In the past, Nha Khanh has outsourced its PR work. With Sutton’s help, Nha Khanh is growing its brand awareness in-house.

Sutton grew up in Sterlington, Louisiana, graduating from the same high school that her grandparents, parents and only sibling attended. Until she was 22 years old, Sutton lived with her parents, never venturing far from the community that has been home to her family for generations. She commuted to University of Louisiana at Monroe, studying Business Administration and Marketing.

After graduating from ULM, Sutton easily convinced her parents to continue her education with a master’s degree. They assumed she would apply to a master’s program somewhere in Louisiana, but instead she applied and was accepted at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, California. Sutton left her close-knit family and the small town of Sterlington and moved to downtown Los Angeles, where she lived for two years while earning a Master’s degree in Visual Communication from FIDM.

While her parents and brother still live in Sterlington, the place she has always considered home, Sutton is glad that she dared to veer in another direction. Her bold move has taken her places she never dreamed she would discover. Sutton now lives in Irving, Texas with the two loves of her life, Alex Tarnoczi and their one-year-old son, Liam. Sutton met Tarnoczi, who is from Denver, Colorado, while studying at FIDM. Shortly after the couple relocated from Los Angeles to the Dallas area, Tarnoczi’s cousin introduced Sutton to Khanh Nguyen. Meeting the talented fashion designer was a major turning point in Sutton’s professional life. Sutton says she has learned so much working for Khanh Nguyen.

The daughter of Vietnamese immigrants, Nguyen spent her childhood surrounded by fashion. Her mother was a dressmaker who specialized in bridal gowns. After graduating from the University of North Texas, she landed an internship that took her overseas to Paris to study under renowned seamstresses and fashion designers, including bridal expert Madame Gres. While in Paris, Nguyen met the man who would become her husband. Out of Nguyen’s designing and sewing her own bridal trousseau, Nha Khanh was eventually born. Nguyen’s combination of talent and work ethic have propelled her company to the status it now enjoys.

Fortunately, Sutton’s background in marketing coupled with her interest in the fashion industry was a perfect fit for Nha Khanh Designs. Sutton points out that she is the only person in her company who does not have a degree in a fashion-related field. She does, however, have some firsthand experience from which she has been able to draw.

Sutton actually received her introduction to fashion marketing while working in Monroe. Sutton worked for K-Sera, a local women’s clothing boutique, during college.

In her final year at ULM, Sutton worked with BayouLife Magazine, first as an intern and then as the magazine’s office manager. She assisted in producing content for the magazine’s website and helped promote the magazine and its advertisers through various social media outlets.

Sutton also modeled for the magazine’s fashion spreads showcasing clothing and accessories from local boutiques.

She would take this experience with her as she moved to Los Angeles to study at FIDM. “For the longest time, I thought I wanted to be an event planner,” says Sutton. With this goal in mind, she took courses at FIDM in event planning as well as marketing.

Realizing the growing role of social media in the business world, Sutton also elected to take additional social media

From BayouLife to the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Rheagan Sutton is living the fashionable life at Nha Khanh Designs in Dallas.

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classes. “Thank goodness I did,” she says, noting that promoting Nha Khanh’s image through social media is an essential part of her job.

“Since I have been with Nha Khahn, we have gotten into e-commerce, and started our own website where we are able to sell online,” Sutton says. E-commerce was something Sutton had direct experience with, having worked for a boutique in West Monroe that utilizes e-commerce as part of its business model. “I knew that we could sell online,” says Sutton of Nha Khanh. “We got the ball rolling and started selling our designs to customers directly online.”

At some point in the midst of her marketing duties, Sutton began taking on another role at Nha Khanh—that of a fashion model. Petite and beautiful, Sutton models Nha Khanh designs for the company’s website as well as their lifestyle shoots. Sutton has been modeling since she was 16 years old. “Modeling has always been a dream of mine,” says Sutton. “That dream sort of died off at one point, because I got turned down by modeling agencies when I was 18. They said that I needed to lose weight.”

Not overweight by any reasonable definition, Sutton says that the modeling agents, based in New York, suggested that she shed several pounds and then re-apply, advice she declined to follow.

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says that God made it possible for her to find several modeling jobs and opportunities soon after. In addition to modeling for BayouLife and local boutiques while at ULM, she picked up modeling jobs in Los Angeles during her time as a FIDM student.

With that background, she ultimately became a model for Nha Khanh, one of the top fashion designers in the country.

Sutton says her job with Nha Khanh is also a great fit for her as a mother. “I want to spend as much time as I can with my child,” she emphasizes. “Although I do love my career, motherhood comes first. I am thankful that this company is so family oriented. They are amazing. They allow me to have that time with my child and be there for important things in his life.” Sutton feels fortunate to have found the coveted “happy medium” between family life and career that she always longed for.

As she takes on new projects at Nha Khanh, Sutton continues to learn and grow professionally. She says that the fashion industry is very fast-paced, and always focused on the future.

The designs and promotions that are currently in production are for the next year’s collection. “It is all about keeping up with the times and knowing what is going to be in style a year from now,” she says. “There is a lot of trial and error,” admits Sutton. “It is challenging but fun.”

Trinity Cheer Athletics A Spot for Everyone!

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RINITY CHEER ATHLETICS’ MAIN GOAL IS TO MAKE you and your athlete feel loved, accepted, connected, and informed.

When opening the gym, the Trinity staff became family and they quickly recognized a collective passion to have all their athletes feel like part of the TCA family. Together, they strive to provide the area with a gym where athletes can go and excel in whichever area of Trinity Cheer Athletics they choose!

• Level 5/6: Tuesday and Wednesday 6:30-8:00 • Little Explorers: Monday 10:00-10:45, Tuesday 12:00-12:45, Wednesday 10:00-10:45 • Mommy and Me: Thursday 2:30-3:00 • Boys Class: Tuesday 5:00-6:00 • Open Gym: 5:30-8:00 • $1 Night: Monday 6:30-8:00

A SPOT FOR EVERYONE

Having many levels means that their athletes get the attention needed to reach that next skill. A breakdown of levels is as follows: • Level 1: This is for all brand new tumblers. You do not need any prior training to enter this class! (3-5 year olds) • Level 1.5: This level is also for all brand new tumblers. There is no prior training required. (Ages 6+) • Level 2: The Back/Front Walkover Class • Level 3: The Back Handspring Class • Level 3.5: The Back Handspring Series Class • Level 4: The Tuck Class (back and front tuck) • Level 5/6: The Layout/Full Class • Little Explorers: These classes allow for creative growth and development while building strength and self confidence (Ages 2-6) • Mommy and Me: Parents assist their athelete to complete stations and skills. (Ages 2-6)

TCA MANTRA

TRINITY Family. Focus. Fun. TCA believes that surrounding athletes with those three things gives them the environment they need to truly thrive.

CHEER Go. Fight. Win. If your child is a cheerleader or has cheer dreams and goals, TCA will push and guide them to reach their full potential.

ATHLETICS Physicality. Structure. Togetherness. If your child needs a fun activity with their peers where they can release their extra energy or get excited about being active, join the TCA family and hit the gym!

BACK TO SCHOOL SCHEDULE:

With it being back to school, TCA has gone above and beyond to make sure that there is not only a spot for everyone but also a time that will fit everyones schedule.

• Level 1: Monday 4:00-5:00, Tuesday 4:30-5:30, Thursday 4:00-5:00 • Level 1.5: Monday and Wednesday 4:30-6:00, Thursday 5:30-7:00 • Level 2: Monday and Tuesday 5:00-6:30, Wednesday 4:30-6:00, Thursday 6:00-7:00 • Level 3: Monday through Wednesday 5:30-7:00, Thursday 5:00-6:30 • Level 3.5: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday 6:00-7:30 • Level 4: Tuesday 6:00-7:30, Wednesday 6:30-8:00, Thursday 5:307:00 48 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

With that being said, sign up today! Classes started August 14th but it is not too late! Little Explorers and Mommy&Me will start September 4th. Please check their website for class requirements.

Session fees and class requirements can be found at www. trinitycheerathletics.com. TCA is located at 7595 Highway 165 North Monroe, LA 71203. Have questions? Call 318.338.7947 to speak to a member of the TCA family.

“A place where children are inspired to be their very best… not just in tumbling, stunting, etc but in mind and spirit!! Your children are in the most capable hands with Erin and her staff!!”

– Leisha

“Great group of trainers here! I really trust the staff with keeping my daughter safe.”

– Jackie

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The Gardens at Georgia Tucker Local Group Restoring, Renovating and Celebrating Former Elementary School

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N THE COMING MONTHS, NEW LIFE WILL BE BREATHED into the historic Georgia Tucker Elementary School. The site is being completely restored and returning to its grandeur as it opens as an assisted living home - The Gardens at Georgia Tucker.

The building is located in the heart of the Garden District in Monroe.

The school was built in 1920 on land donated by Colonel Frank P. Stubbs in honor of his mother, Georgia Tucker Stubbs. Georgia had a daughter who married Dr. Robert Layton and built the Layton Castle on South Grand so the family has quite an extensive connection to the Monroe area and its development.

The school is one of the last remaining examples of Mediterranean Revival architecture in northern Louisiana.

The architecture style came into prominence in the 1920s and 1930s evolving from rekindled interest in Italian Renaissance palaces and seaside villas dating from the sixteenth century. This style is primarily found in California and Florida, typically multistory and based on a rectangular floor plan, and features massive, symmetrical primary facades. Tile roofs, arches and keystones are also characteristics of this style. All the features can be seen in the architecture of Georgia Tucker Elementary School. The school closed in 1999. The school board had planned to renovate the building and make it a central office, but those plans changed, allowing for this new opportunity.

The Gardens at Georgia Tucker will officially open in January of 2018, and will begin accepting applications in October of this year.

There are two phases planned, the first of which will be completed in the coming months. The former auditorium will be home to a large common area that will be used for visiting, entertaining, church services and more. Residential rooms will be located off of the large school hallways. In the first phase, there will be 20 rooms – a mix of studio, one bedroom and two bedroom styles. Amenities include a fitness room, a beauty salon and catered meals. There will also be a gorgeous garden area for residents to enjoy as well.

There are 40 more rooms planned for the second phase. The entire building will have a comfortable and homey feel, adding to the garden district charm of the neighborhood.

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When the property first became available, many people were wary that an out of town or out of state developer would come in, with no care for the history behind the building, letting it deteriorate and not mindful to the interests of the neighborhood. However, a local management team formed and is committed to bringing the building back to life.

The team consists of four partners with experience in renovations, development, nursing homes, assisted living facilities and medicine. Dr. Matt Sanderson, local dentist at Apple Dental, is overseeing the development and restoration of the property. He owns several properties in downtown Monroe and is currently restoring those to their former glory as well. “I am excited to be able to restore this property and maintain and preserve a lot of the original architecture and features,” said Matt Sanderson. “We love the character of the building and want to keep that as true as possible as we restore it.”

Paul Coburn and Dawne Smith bring the nursing home and assisted living facility experience to the table. Between the two of them, they own 12 facilities throughout Louisiana and Texas. They have an extensive successful portfolio, including Avalon Place in Monroe. Dr. Tom Dansby rounds out the ownership team, with experience in medicine and medical facilities.

“We researched and found that there was a serious need for assisted living in the north Monroe area and we are eager to be able to provide that to the residents of our community and their families,” said Matt Sanderson. “We think it will be a real asset to the neighborhood and to the city.”

The group plans an open house in December, once the renovations are complete and they are preparing to open for their residents in January. Nearly a century after the school opened for the first time to the school children of Monroe, it will be open and home to The Gardens at Georgia Tucker.

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How God and Palmetto Saved My Life “It Hasn’t Been Easy, But It Has Definitely Been Worth It.” ARTICLE BY JENNIFER L.

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HEN I WOKE UP IN THE Emergency Room on April 28, 2015, I felt as though my life was over, and I wanted to die. I looked at the faces of my loved ones, and the disappointment, sadness and anger was all too apparent. I had wrecked my car in an alcoholic blackout, and had been charged with a DWI. My now ex-husband took our son to his parent’s house, and my mom was left to take me home. The next day I made the decision to enter treatment. There was no fight. I had no other options if I wanted to live.

The plan was for me to have a chance to talk to my son before I left and try to explain to a 5-year-old that “mommy was sick, and that I needed to go somewhere to get well.”

No truer statement could have been uttered.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t stop drinking long enough to tell my son “Goodbye.” I was powerless over drugs and alcohol. I firmly believe that God did for me what I could not do for myself. He intervened when I was at the lowest point in my life. I could not stop drinking to the point of blacking out, and I could not stop taking pills. I was slowly killing myself.

Thankfully, on April 30, 2015, my mom and a friend took me to Palmetto, and this is when my life started to change. I began to learn about myself. I began to deal with the issues of my childhood. I was honest like never before. I formed life-long friendships, and I found strength in the many counselors, therapists, and other people in AA that shared their experiences, strength and hope with me. I learned that alcohol and drugs

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weren’t my problem, that I was my problem.

After I completed part of my treatment as an in-patient, I transitioned into Palmetto’s Halfway House, and entered their Intensive Outpatient Program. During this time, I was going through a divorce, but by having the support and love from my IOP group and the women in the Halfway House, I was able to face the wreckage of my past, and hold my head up and fight. I finally had a voice.

This transition was so vital and beneficial to me. I needed to learn how to live again – to live life on life’s terms.

Once I completed treatment, part of my recommendations list was to attend Palmetto’s Aftercare one night a week. My Aftercare group had become my new-found family. They have become the brothers and sisters that I never had. These are men and women who are valiantly working and living the program of Alcoholics Anonymous. In Aftercare, I continue to grow.

I have grown exponentially, both spiritually and emotionally. Aftercare has been, and continues to be, my favorite part of recovery.

In Aftercare, I continue to learn about myself. I continue to make strides in my recovery, and most importantly I continue to heal. It gives me great comfort to know that in addition to my weekly AA meetings once a week for 3 hours, I am surrounded by men and women in recovery who truly know me inside and out. These men and women have celebrated my triumphs, and have picked me up when I was down, and for this I am truly grateful.

My recovery journey is not over; it will never be over. I know that I have to fight

every day if I want to stay sober. I have to continue to deal with the consequences of my addiction on a daily basis, but my Aftercare family loves me and supports me through it all. If it weren’t for Palmetto, I wouldn’t have the restored relationships with my parents, and I wouldn’t have been given a second chance to be the mom to my son that God made me to be. I never thought that I would ever be able to say that I am grateful to be an alcoholic and an addict, but today I can honestly say that I am eternally grateful. I believe with all of my heart that God and Palmetto saved my life. I believe that God brought me to Palmetto, and Palmetto and AA brought me back to God.

The residential treatment environment at Palmetto Addiction Recovery Center is based on the Therapeutic Community model where clients learn to work together to solve problems as a drug-free community. Under the guidance of counselors, self-disclosure begins, changes in behavior and thinking occur, and long-term sobriety skills are taught.

Palmetto Addiction Recovery Residential Treatment Center is located beside beautiful Lake Lafourche near Rayville, and has served adults 18+ from all over the country including Louisiana’s neighboring states. For more information, inquiries may be made by calling 1-800-2036612, or by emailing info@palmettocenter. com.

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FLOWERS

Avant Garden Couture Gregory Hudgins (our area’s own floral version of Manolo Blahnik) worked his floral magic to cobbler a stiletto worthy of a princess. A neutral heel of wild thistle, a sole of bird of paradise leaves and “straps” of hypericum berries get a jolt of color with the addition of a fuchsia ranunculus blossom at the toe. Ooh la la!

ARRANGEMENT BY GREGORY HUDGINS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN G MEYERS

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FLOWERS

Totes Fleur

Designer Gregory Hudgins comes through in the clutch with this adorable wristlet-inspired floral fashion. The purse was created using sprigs of purple liattrice accented with hot pink ranunculus with a lily grass “strap” for the perfect floral accessory! Trés Chic!

ARRANGEMENT BY GREGORY HUDGINS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN G MEYERS

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Learning Tech Becomes QTL Local School Celebrates 20 Years with a New Name

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EARNING TECH/QUEST SCHOOL CELEBRATES ITS 20TH anniversary this year as an educational services center serving students and their families across Northeast Louisiana. Recognizing that 21st Century learning is not simply about the school but about learning in various formats, LearningTECH/Quest School will celebrate this milestone by rebranding as QuesTECH Learning (QTL).

QuesTECH Learning will offer numerous ways to learn: full-time online school with certified teachers for grades 6-12, individual online courses for grades 6-12, blended environment of online courses with mentors on site at QTL, continued full-time day school for grades 2-8, after school tutorials, summer programs for remediation or enrichment, and ACT preparation.

Partnering with Fuel Ed, a branch of K-12, QuesTECH Distance Learning announces its online/blended high school program beginning this month. Accredited by AdvanED, QuesTECH Distance Learning has become an online partner with Fuel Education LLC (a wholly owned subsidiary of K12, Inc.), which offers traditional high school as well as career readiness pathways to high school graduation.

Students may elect the TOPS core curriculum or career readiness with choices in information technology, health science, hospitality/tourism, agriculture, or manufacturing. Fuel Ed offers students an innovative, affordable approach through online and blended learning, which offers students a comprehensive, end-to-end program that offers college and career readiness. Online students, grades 6-12, who need additional instructional resources beyond the numerous ways afforded through the virtual Fuel Ed, may schedule mentoring sessions in a blended environment: virtual instruction coupled with on-site assistance.

“I remain humbled by what we have accomplished in the last 20 years and look forward to our move to emphasize learning in even more ways to benefit students as they become productive citizens,” said Director Donna Underwood, who has been in her current position since the center opened in 1997.

Assistant Director Kevin Branson has been instrumental in this partnership with Fuel Ed, improvement of technology infrastructure, and the deployment of Chromebooks for the new school year. For the first time, QTL will have a 1 : 1 student : computer ratio.

Kevin Branson stated, “We are excited about the new learning opportunities that QuesTECH Learning can offer now. We also believe that QTL is uniquely poised to help parents and their secondary grade learners to take full advantage of all the flexibility and robust resources

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that our partnership with FuelEd/K12 offers. This new arrangement means that we can continue our practice of building a student education plan that is the perfect fit for each learner, but now also at the secondary level. We are also encouraged that by using FuelEd/K12 as the online foundation for our secondary school, we can design each student’s education plan, whether totally online or blended, in a manner that also best fits the lifestyle, schedule, and logistical challenges faced by each particular family.”

QuesTECH Learning will continue to offer the full day school for grades 2-8, serving students who need a more specialized environment and curriculum. For the past 20 years, the school has enabled student success, beginning with seven students and five staff members at its first location on Highway 165 to its now 60+ students and 25 staff members at 2401 Oliver Road. Alex George, founder of LearningTECH/Quest School, remains on the board of directors

The full day school offers a non-traditional, smaller environment for students with or without formal diagnoses of ADHD, dyslexia, and/or Autism. QTL’s partnership with Fuel Ed will enable day school students to utilize even more online offerings. Also, QTL students have an enrichment schedule that includes computer coding, robotics, drama, Tae Kwon Do, P.E., art, digital yearbook, science experiments, PowerPoint demonstrating and mentoring.

QuesTECH Learning will continue to offer afterschool tutorials in any academic subject, kindergarten through college. Test preparation such as ACT, SAT, ASVAB, GMAT, GEE, LEAP, EOC, and MCAT is given. QTL provides ACT preparation in several formats: workshops and one-on-one or small group instruction. QTL also offers an online version of these workshops as well. Speed Reader has proved invaluable in helping middle or high school students or adults become more proficient readers, especially if they are preparing for a timed test like the ACT or SAT.

On Saturday, October 28, Scotty Sanders—international leadership consultant, life catalyst and author—will headline Stars on the Bayou, 6-9:00 p.m., Ouachita Grand Plaza, with his presentation “Keys to Success.” Partnering with the Radio People, QTL has planned an event to feature Hors D’oeuvres, silent and live auctions, and entertainment, as well. For additional information about Stars on the Bayou, please visit questechlearning.org.

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Historical Impressions

ALWAYS IN STYLE

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ASHION STYLES CAN BE AS unpredictable as the weather. Some styles last for years, some are gone in a season, some never become very popular at all. Hardly anyone will think you are making a fashion faux pas, however, when you are sporting military or military-based outerwear.

I think the first military style to really capture the public’s interest was the trench coat. The trench coat was developed for British officers to wear in the battlefield trenches of WWI. By WWII the trench cost had been adopted by many armies across the world including our own. The trench coat is so stylish and practical that men and women everywhere have been wearing versions of it ever since. If a man owns suits and lives where it gets cold and wet, he is almost certain to have a trench coat in his closet. I do.

In the 1960s young men and women from about age 12 to age 30 began wearing the U.S. military OG-107 fatigue shirt as a light jacket or fashion over-garment. “OG” stands for “olive green.” It seemed strange but in any group of antiwar protesters, you were likely to see many people wearing Army shirts. Many rock musicians of this era (including John Lennon) frequently wore this type of military shirt. I wore Army fatigue shirts off and on from middle school to high school and still pull out my USMC issue OG-107 utility shirt every now and then.

Another popular military style of the 1960s came from the U.S. Navy. Double-breasted heavy wool pea coats kept civilians just as warm as they did sailors. For cool but not as cold weather, however, the “CPO jacket” was a popular favorite. The “CPO jacket” was really the midnight blue wool cold weather “duty” shirt worn by Navy officers and men. Like the Army fatigue shirt, this wool shirt was worn by civilians as a light jacket or over-garment. Unlike the fatigue shirt, you did not have to go to an Army surplus store or get a hand-me-down from a veteran to own one.

“CPO jackets,” like trench coats, were manufactured for civilian wear and sold in department and clothing stores.

My mother took me to the local mall to buy one for me.

By the 1980s, the Battle Dress Uniform in woodland camouflage had replaced olive green fatigues as issue combat wear for all branches of the U.S. military. The

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woodland camo pattern was an evolution of the ERDL camo pattern issued in Vietnam and post-war by the USMC. All types of clothing were made in woodland camo; both military issue surplus and civilian production. Woodland camo remains popular today. Woodland jackets and other items are regularly seen, and can be easily found online and in stores selling outdoor gear.

My personal favorite item of military style is the leather flight jacket. The Army Air Force A-2 and Navy G-1 style leather jackets date back to the 1930s; as do the popular military aviator sunglasses. These jackets are so comfortable and attractive that a style trend was born during WWII that continues to the present. From the 1950s onward, the “cool” Hollywood stars all wore flight jackets on and off the screen.

James Dean, Steve McQueen, the “Fonz” from “Happy Days,” Paul Michael Glazer on “Starsky and Hutch,” Harrison Ford in the “Indiana Jones” movie franchise; the list seems endless.

If it is cool outside, you will probably see me wearing my A-2 … unless I choose to wear my G-1 instead. If it is really cold out, I might opt for my shearling-lined leather B-3 bomber jacket instead. General George Patton was probably the most style-conscious U.S. Army officer during WWII. Although he was a ground forces commander, Patton wore an Air Force B-3 jacket because he was a general and he could wear whatever he pleased.

At this point you might be thinking “Wait. If Guy was a kid in the 1960s, then he is … older … now, and … older … men are not always known for keeping up with current fashion.” Maybe. But earlier this year we had a high school foreign exchange student from Italy staying with us. One cold morning I loaned Carlo my A-2 to wear to school. He came home all smiles that day. The other students thought the jacket was the coolest thing they had ever seen and wanted to know where he got it. One of the last outings Carlo and I had together was going to a surplus store so he could buy a U.S. military camouflage jacket to take home to Italy.

As long as some of my fashion choices are getting thumbs up from high school kids, I don’t think my sense of style is always … older.

BY GUY MILLER Vice Chair-Chennault Aviation and Military Museum

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Overcoming Obstacles Judge Stephens Gives an Inspirational Testimony

“Jimbo lost his right hand in an accident when he was 11 years old. But that did not stop him from becoming a rodeo competitor, an airplane pilot, a fifth-generation family farmer and a judge.”

– Buckshot Sims, Franklin Parish.

“Judge Stephens has the judicial temperament, understanding, and experience that we need on the Court of Appeal.”

– Linda Brooks,

Retired Ouachita Parish teacher

“Judge Stephens is the law and order judge who follows in the footsteps of his father, Judge Sonny Stephens and his grandfather, Sheriff A. J. Stephens.”

– Sheriff Jerry Philley,

West Carroll Parish.

“Judge Stephens is best prepared for the Court of Appeal because of his broad range of experience.”

– Taylor Sadler, Ouachita Parish BEST PREPARED CANDIDATE

James M. “Jimbo” Stephens is the Chief Judge of the Fifth Judicial District.

Judge Stephens’ experience has not been limited to one area of the law. His broad experience makes him the best prepared candidate for the Court of Appeal

Stephens graduated from the LSU Law Center in 1982. He has 34 years of legal experience.

He has strong law enforcement support because of his record of helping law enforcement protect our families. He is following in the law-and-order footsteps of 62 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

his father, Judge Sonny Stephens, and his grandfather, Sheriff A. J. Stephens.

Judge Stephens works well with other judges and that gives him an advantage as a candidate for the Court of Appeal where panels of judges working together make the decisions.

This division of the Second Circuit Court of Appeal includes part of Ouachita, Morehouse and West Carroll, and all of Franklin and Richland Parishes. The Second Circuit Court of Appeal is in Shreveport but the offices for this division are located in Monroe.

Judge Jimbo Stephens, who thinks that a judge should be independent, is an Independent. Judge Stephens upholds the constitution and does not advocate or legislate from the bench. He believes in individual rights, especially our right to bear arms.

COMMUNITY AND FAMILY

Jimbo and his wife, Faith, have three children and three grandchildren, with a fourth grandchild on the way. Jimbo and Faith attend St Mary’s Church.

Faith and Jimbo live on their farm and continue the fifth generation of family farming. This year they have planted corn and soy beans.

Jimbo attributes his success in overcoming obstacles to his family, his faith and hard work.

He says he will never forget the day he came home from the hospital after his accident. There was a brand-new minibike in the middle of the living room. He was told it was his as soon as he rode it. That motivation

and family support gave him the courage to ride and continue to ride that minibike.

When he faced other challenges, there were those who meant well but thought that maybe Jimbo should not try sports, bronc riding, roping, flying an airplane or many other things.

In addition to building two airplanes, Jimbo has used his talent to create metal grills and fountains as auction items to help raise money for community projects.

Jimbo is a member of the North Louisiana District Judges Association, Former President of Fifth District Bar Association, Chief Judge of Fifth JDC, Franklin Parish Chamber of Commerce, Winnsboro Masonic Lodge #246, New Hope Lodge #328, Barak Shrine Temple, Experimental Aircraft Association, Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association, NRA, National Wild Turkey Federation and other organizations.

Plan to attend the fund raising event for Judge Jimbo Stephens on September 14, 2017 at the home of Marion and Tommy Zentner in Monroe.

For more information go to Facebook Judge Jimbo Stephens for Court of Appeal or the website judgejimbo.com

This message paid for by the Jimbo Stephens Campaign Committee, Carmen Sims, Chair.

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Emerson Gynecology An Intimate Makeover

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R. ELIZABETH SHANE FRENCH, Board Certified Gynecologist from New Orleans, has helped to bring a new dimension to addressing women’s health needs and concerns. Dr. French’s focus is on women and men’s anti-aging treatments and procedures. Bioidentical Hormone Therapy, as well as the vaginal laser, IntimaLase® and Incontilase® are part of her treatments.

Physiologic changes in a woman’s life, such as childbirth, weight fluctuations, and hormonal changes due to aging and menopause, may alter the laxity of the vaginal canal, damage the pelvic floor, and devitalize the mucosal tone of the vaginal wall. These events often lead to the development of genitourinary conditions such as stress urinary incontinence; vaginal atrophy; dryness; and physiologic distress affecting a woman’s quality of life, self-confidence and sexuality.

Various treatment modalities are currently available to manage these indications, varying from invasive vaginal surgery to more benign treatments like topical vaginal hormonal gels or hormone-replacement therapy. A new trend gaining momentum is the advent of energybased devices for vaginal rejuvenation that apply thermal or non-thermal energy to the various layers of the vaginal tissue, stimulating collagen regeneration contracture of elastin fibers, neovascularization and improved vaginal lubrication.

INTIMALASE®: LASER VAGINAL TIGHTENING IntimaLase® is a unique laser therapy for incisionless, non-invasive photothermal tightening of the vaginal canal. Clinical studies have shown that IntimaLase® is an efficient, easy-to-perform and safe procedure

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with no pain and downtime. The indication for IntimaLase® is vaginal relaxation syndrome, which is the loss of the optimum structural form of the vagina. This process is generally associated with overstretching of the vaginal canal during childbirth as well as with natural aging.

How IntimaLase® Works and Its Advantages The IntimaLase® treatment is based on laser-induced thermal effects in the vaginal tissue, stimulating collagen remodeling and the synthesis of new collagen fibers.

The final result of collagen neogenesis and remodeling is tightening of the vaginal canal.

IntimaLase® is a walk-in/walk-out procedure.

You can immediately return to your everyday activities. After one treatment, clinical results show a tightened vaginal canal, greater sexual satisfaction and significant improvement in a patient’s quality of life. Clinical results have proven that the fast and easy-to-perform IntimaLase® treatment is an effective, noninvasive, incisionless procedure with no undesired side effects or contraindications.

Scientific results clearly show great improvements in vaginal tightness and sexual gratification. For instance, 95% assessed the change of their vaginal tightness as strongly or moderately improved after IntimaLase® treatment. Average shrinkage of vaginal canal after IntimaLase® treatment was 17%, which resulted in a high level of patient satisfaction (97%).

INCONTILASE®: STRESS URINARY INCONTINENCE LASER TREATMENT IncontiLase® is for the treatment of mild and moderate stress urinary incontinence.

This laser therapy is based on non-ablative

photothermal stimulation of collagen neogenesis, shrinking and tightening of vaginal mucosa tissue and collagen-rich endopelvic fascia, and subsequently greater support to the bladder.

How IncontiLase® Works and Its Advantages The IncontiLase® treatment is based on precisely controlled laser-induced thermal effects in the mucosa tissue in the region of the vestibule and urethral orifice, as well as in the area along the anterior vaginal wall. The laser enables delivery of specially composed laser energy packages to the vaginal mucosa tissue and to collagen-rich endopelvic fascia.

Studies have shown that the resulting collagen neogenesis and remodeling leads to the shrinking and tightening of irradiated tissues, and the return of normal continence function.

For a large majority of patients, one session is sufficient to alleviate mild or even moderate stress urinary incontinence. No special preop preparations or post-op precautions are necessary. You can immediately return to your everyday activities. Additional advantages of IncontiLase® are that the procedure is incisionless and virtually painless, with no ablation, cutting, bleeding or sutures. Recovery is extremely quick without need for the use of analgesics or antibiotics.

Scientific results from clinical studies show excellent improvement for mild and moderate stress urinary incontinence. Almost 70% of patients are dry after 120 days. 120 days after IncontiLase® treatment, 94% of patients reported improvement and 68% of all patients claimed to be free of SUI symptoms.

For an appointment please call Emerson Gynecology at 318.360.4877.

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crowning

glory

Dara Kent-Cobb produces heirloom millinery which combines her rich family heritage in Louisiana and the modern hustle of her adopted home in the Big Apple. Her company, Preston & Olivia, offers beautifully designed hats for men and women. article by MICHAEL DEVAULT and photography by BAILEY + MARTIN

When she was 14, Dara Kent-Cobb went on the trip of a lifetime – a national dance competition in New York.

Walking around Manhattan, listening to the city hum, Dara knew then and there she was home. But for a girl from northeastern Louisiana, getting back “home” to New York would take some doing.

Like many youngsters in her generation, she appreciated Louisiana and everything the Bayou State offered, but it didn’t feel like home. Though she loved Debbie’s School of Dance and the Twin City Ballet, tiny little Fluker, Louisiana, had never felt like home. One day, she knew, she would leave. And with that single visit to the Big Apple, she knew where she’d be going.

“I had no idea what would ultimately bring me back, but I knew one day I’d call New York home,” she says.

Today, Dara is the creative director for Preston & Olivia, a purveyor of fine hats for men and women

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based in Manhattan. Dara and the team at the company modeled this modern design house on a traditional millinery. For her designs, Dara strives to mix equal parts of her Louisiana upbringing, a rich family heritage stretching back generations, and all of the modern hustle of her adopted home.

“I take pride in designing and creating made-toorder hats that are fashionable, yet classic enough to wear for seasons,” she says. Quality and timelessness breed longevity in fashion. “It’s my goal to remain as sustainable as possible. All of my pieces are made in New York, and because they are each made to order, we don’t have excess inventory we have to push each season.”

Instead, Preston & Olivia produces amazing hats for him and for her which are heirloom pieces the likes of which few milliners produce today. That quality and the attention to detail are the result of almost a decade of work and effort that began at LSU.

I do not ever see a moment when a HAT isn’t chic and fashionable.

DARA KENT-COBB

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W

hen Dara arrived at LSU, she hadn’t a clue what she wanted to study. She knew college was an important first step, but beyond that, a step towards…what, exactly?

She perused the catalog of majors, but nothing grabbed her attention. That’s when a friend changed her life.

“I honestly had no idea what I wanted to major in at LSU – until a friend mentioned apparel design was an actual degree,” she says. At first, she was incredulous, because she hadn’t seen it listed. There was a reason, though. “It was listed under the college of Agriculture, and so I never stumbled across it while looking through the course catalog.”

She declared her major and began classes. From that moment on, she says “everything just fell into place.”

“I was learning and doing what I loved, and I knew that it was the right path to get me to New York,” she says.

After graduating with a bachelor’s in Textiles, Apparel and Merchandising, or TAM, her talent for pairing materials caught the eye of employers and, before she knew it, she was employed and working in New York. While working on that first apparel gig, she discovered millinery and decided to further her education.

She pursued accessory design classes at the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she was also afforded the opportunity to take a course in operating a small business. During that course, she says, she developed the concept, brand and designs that would become Preston & Olivia.

“I started with an Etsy shop, making bridal veils and headpieces for women, and neckware for men,” she says. “From there, I slowly expanded to creating ready-to-wear/made-toorder fall and spring hat collections.”

Preston & Olivia proved a popular brand, and it’s grown ever since. Today, she operates the business with her husband, Trent Bailey Cobb, who handles the business, partnership and photography aspects of the company. For her part, Dara still designs hats and oversees the creative direction of the brand.

The hat designs she creates are indeed classics, ranging in shapes and sizes from petite newsboy designs to large-brimmed fedoras built to block as much sun from a woman’s face as possible. Colors are as varied as the material combinations she chooses. Each hat, a unique classic.

“Hats are never going anywhere,” she says. People care too much about sun coverage, so summer hats will always be a necessity. As for fall, felt-style hats, the colors and silhouettes are always changing. But I do not ever see a moment when a hat isn’t chic and fashionable.”

She draws influence from photos of her grandmother – their signature hat is the Olivia, which is also one of the best-sellers. This classic, medium-brimmed fedora is offered in six colors, from ivory to pink, and sports a classic, black knit band. Other influences find their way into the Evelyn, a medium-brimmed Boater with a strong, squared dome and handsome, moderately stiff brim – also offered in a selection of colors. The Evelyn is finished with a pair of tassels, tucked smartly behind a Boucle band.

For a more fashion forward look, there’s the Jenna, a Mod Fedora finished with a textured, braided yarn hatband. And if it’s a healthy dose of fun flashback, consider the Cindy, inspired by the famous Peter Lindbergh/Cindy Crawford shoot. Hand blocked in flat fur felt, 68 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

the Cindy is finished with a hip brass chain from temple to temple.

Though Preston & Olivia hats are made-toorder and are definitely a luxury spend, the price points aren’t prohibitive, ranging from $175 to the low-$300s. Take a moment to browse their sample sale page, and chances are you’ll find a Preston & Olivia to fit any budget.

Like the hats she so carefully designs, Preston & Olivia is ever-evolving. For three years, the company focused on fall-spring collections, but that’s beginning to change as Dara’s interests – and the market – shift.

“We’ve decided to step back from the season collections to rededicate ourselves to the passion that inspires us – creating timeless, heirloomquality pieces by hand, each one beautifully and purposefully designed,” she says. “Going forward, we will be releasing small capsule collections and focusing on collaborations with likeminded brands.”

While there are partnerships in the works, Dara says customers will have to wait and see what lies in store for their favorite Manhattan millinery. Meanwhile, she notes it’s an interesting time in hat fashion.

Over the long history of hat design, each generation has produced unique looks. Hats become a political statement as much as a fashion piece. Who can forget Magritte’s Son of Man, a faceless professional in a stern coat and perfectly positioned bowler? Lincoln is as identified with the stiff, formal Stove Pipe hats as he is with his beard. Today is no different, Dara says.

“You cannot deny the current political environment and the resistance movement is impacting everything,” she observes. “Fashion is no exception. Because of this, the Fall 2017 shows included smaller, cadet caps, newsboy caps and berets, and other styles to evoke that military-meets-activist style.”

We can hardly wait to see what Preston & Oliver brings to this new paradigm in fashion.

Preston & Olivia is based in Manhattan and distributes its creations worldwide via its web store, which you can visit at www.prestonandolivia.com.

FEARS

Meredith’s Musings Weighing the Risks |

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t turns out being pregnant at 35 is risky.

I knew this going in, but I happen to be 35, and just now happened to get pregnant. So, in addition to my monthly doctor visits, I was referred to a fetal maternity specialist. I didn’t give it much thought; the appointment was a month away. But the morning of the appointment, I had what I would call an emotional crash. I had been telling my husband for days that I just didn’t really want to go. I had read the brochures. I knew the risk. I just didn’t like the idea of probing for a problem. I never have. I’m old school in that I typically like to leave well enough alone.

I arrived in the parking garage at 7:15.

After navigating the maze of elevators and hallways to the fourth floor, I showed my ID and sat and waited my turn. Then the tears started. I couldn’t stop them. I didn’t want to be there. I knew what the specialist was about to tell me could be life-changing. I couldn’t even see through the tears signing the paperwork. The nurse asked if I needed a chaplain. I snapped at her: “Just pretend I’m not crying.” I’m not usually a cryer, and I hate people acknowledging when I do. I almost wish she had slapped me in retaliation, knocked me out of my emotional

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By Meredith McKinnie

bubble. But she just smiled and understood, and thus I cried more. I loathe vulnerability, and no matter how much I fanned, my fears just rained down my face.

What I’ve learned over the last few months is pregnancy is scary. And I’m not scared for me, but more about what it means. It’s emotional overload. When I met my husband, I gradually got used to loving someone more than myself. I had four years to get used to that feeling before I accepted it as truth. When he leaves the house, I worry about his safety. And caring about someone that much makes life matter so much more, makes feeling so much deeper. Hurts hurt more because I care more. It’s a lot to carry. And I’m aware, that in just four short months, I’m going to have another person who matters that much. And it’s going to get heavier to carry. And will I carry it well?

All this fear was resting on my mind when the doctor came in. He saw my face and asked if I was okay. He looked like the typical doc, middle-aged, male, the smart looking one in the classroom years ago. It was comforting, sad to say. So I told him my fears: I don’t want to hear what you have to say. I’m scared of something being wrong with her. And it’s not Down’s that scares

me. It’s the stuff that she won’t survive; it’s potentially watching her suffer or gasp and know I’m responsible for her being alive.

Once you tell me, you can’t untell me, and then the responsibility shifts to me. And I’m terrified of what you’re about to say to me.

He paused, and he slightly smiled.

And then he nodded for a long time. He said, “You really get why you’re here.” “But doesn’t everybody?” I asked. “No,” he said.

I knew why I was there. I knew he had the knowledge to foresee a medical condition. I also knew the gravity of the type of conditions he was looking for. And as miraculous as that capability is, it’s terrifying. He looked over the scans, and said her development looked normal at this point, that I would be back in five weeks.

I walked the maze back to my car sort of numb. Saying those fears aloud didn’t lessen them, just made them feel more real. I’m going to be responsible for another person.

She will be totally reliant on us. I’m going to worry about her every day; I realized that day I already do. And we haven’t even met.

I hope she likes me. I hope our best is good enough. I hope I can carry it.

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B AYOUKID Z

CREATING A FALL BUCKET LIST A To-Do List of Fun Family-Friendly Activities article by Cindy G. Foust

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appy “Fall, Y’all!” Holy jack-o-lanterns Batman, the holidays are truly up on us. Lets’ see, there are 129 days until Christmas, which means we will be starting our shopping in less than 100 days, and decorating our houses in 90 days and, well, you get the picture. And you’re welcome, by the way, for the reminder…in case you needed one. I really hope things are going well in the Bayou Nation and everyone got their little darlings all settled in and “schedule-ized” (I haven’t made a word up in a while, so I wanted to see if I still could) for school.

Things are a little different at our house this year; we are in a different season so to speak, and well, I’m enjoying it immensely. I think I have shared in some recent columns that as our children have gotten older and busier with their lives, our “family-time” has become more occasional and more sacred. Therefore, I have tried to become proactive with being more deliberate in “planning” our family time.

This was something that was very important to my parents, and it still is, even though their children are adults with their own families, and likewise, it is very important to Scott and me. And with all this plotting and planning, I think it has made me become somewhat of a connoisseur of bucket lists.

Does that sound strange? I hope not, because I have found, and even encouraged my readers to make a few of their own, that making a bucket list is a sort of fun and informal way of setting goals. So here we are readers, as I like to say, on the cusp of the holiday season, with my favorite time of year staring us in the face.

As I live and breathe and write this column, I am making a “fall bucket list” that I want to share with you readers, and encourage you to take the time, now, to plan some family time around this holiday season. I’m going to make some recommendations, and share some of the things on my personal list. But, do I really have to recommend making apple cider or burning a fall scented candle? Those are just things we do here in the south, right? Well, and make sweet tea and gumbo, but you get the picture. However, what I do want to recommend are some things that perhaps you haven’t thought about, or maybe you know about, but just don’t take the time to do.

Readers, hear me clear, especially those of you with small

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children, the days are passing quickly and time is truly getting away at rocket speed. Stop and smell the cider…if you would, and pull out the big sheets of cardboard that I know you have left over from the summer bucket list I had you make a few months ago, and make one for the fall. By the way, if you really take me up on this, post your posters on our BayouLife Facebook page (that I know everyone has liked).

So let’s get started and do it with something simple, like hosting a bonfire. Doesn’t that sound awesome with these crisp 92-degree days we are having? Come one, where’s your sense of adventure?

A big roaring fire, roasted hot dogs, s’mores and songs around the campfire? Okay, so songs around the campfire is stretching it just a bit, but a few years ago we hung a big sheet on our garage door, borrowed a projector and watched a movie in our driveway. The kids loved it and Scott only complained a little bit. Okay, a lot actually, because the kids ran through his beloved flower beds and broke some plants while they played Hideand-Seek, and well, he loves his yard more than he loves me, so yeah…it was a lot. BUT, it was a fun night for the kids and I even rolled my popcorn popper out there and we actually thought we were at the real movies. Except it was about $200 less.

Next, speaking of movies, why not host a Halloween movie night. Now, let me just back up to the first Halloween column I wrote for BayouLife, nearly five years ago, when I told my readers how this holiday is one of my favorite.

To reiterate, I don’t worship the devil or practice witchcraft. I have just always enjoyed dressing up, hosting a trick-or-treat party and having a hayride through our neighborhood. So critics, be kind when I make this recommendation. I’m not suggesting you watch Happy Birthday to Me (circa 1981), which incidentally, I did, on my parents’ Curtis Mathis VCR, with my friends and let me just say, I am still a scaredycat to this day as a result. Seriously, I booby-trap the doors when Scott is out-of-town, even when I set the alarm. And I have been known to sleep with a Psycho knife at my bedside, all because of this stupid movie.

Wait, where was I? Oh yeah, a Halloween family movie night.

I was thinking more like It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, now there’s a classic to enjoy with your family. Another reason to have

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Runway 139 Style Show, September 21st

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N THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 21ST AT 6 PM, CROSWELL’S Boutique 139 is hosting their first grand event, Runway 139, after their extensive remodel of the store. Runway 139 will include a fabulous style show showcasing the latest in fashion and style. The Croswell Girls will be displaying their favorite looks down the newly built white runway and would like to invite you to have a front row seat. Croswell’s recently added a White Carpet banner which gives you the chance to get your picture taken with your friends and feel like you are having the red carpet experience. So make a note of all the looks you like in the fashion show, and you can find them throughout the store. This will be child-free night, so please leave the kids with the babysitter, although dads are welcome. There will be fun, music and you can come and go shop from 6-9!

The boutique expansion includes five freshly built dressing rooms, the runway stage, a White Carpet Banner and a cozy nook where you can try on over 50 styles of shoes. The dressing rooms were designed to be generous in size, to ensure comfort and space while trying on your favorite pieces. Right next to the dressing rooms is the new stage for Runway 139! With chairs lining the runway and a large wall mirror and chandeliers hanging overhead, this space is simply perfect for Croswell’s new Runway 139 event. Step down from the runway and in front of The White Carpet Banner to have your picture taken by the “glamourazzi” red carpet style. Croswell’s Boutique 139 has strived to make shopping more than just a task of clicking on a computer and buying online. They have infused shopping into a great experience that creates a lasting memory that can be shared with friends.

Croswell’s Boutique 139 resides in a comfortable 12,000 sq. ft. building, letting you stretch out, move around and try things on.

Space has never been an issue at this boutique with over 6,000 fall pieces trickling in daily. You’ll adore everything they have to offer.

Fall is the best season for fashion because of the possibility to layer!

Boutique 139 has kimonos, vests, colored skinny jeans, dresses, tops and camisoles, just to name a few. Whether it be for 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 update your wardrobe.

Boutique 139’s jewelry selection ranges from beads to leathers, from crystals to pearls to chokers and more! Every piece is unique and will definitely add to any look. Mirrors adorn the boutique allowing 74 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

you to see what works best for you. With its cozy and comfortable setting, Boutique 139 simply feels like an extension of your own closet.

Booties, heels, wedges and sneakers can all be found here. With an extensive selection of styles, Boutique 139 has supplied their store with something for everyone. Comfortable seating has been added, along with a separate section in the store just for shoes. If you need help picking the right shoe, the Croswell’s girls are experts at offering personal assistance to help you coordinate a one-of-a-kind look for any occasion.

South of Bastrop this alluring boutique lies along Hwy 139, away from all of the hustle and bustle of city life. A chance to step out of the normal and into something extraordinary. Unlike anything found in the surrounding areas, Croswell’s Boutique 139 will make you feel as though you are shopping at home with your best friends.

Continuously improving and updating the clothes, jewelry and shoes, this boutique itself is truly one-of-a-kind. They will have hundreds of new styles available and it is the perfect time of year to come see what this boutique has to offer.

Croswell’s Boutique 139 wants to invite you and your girl friends to their first hosting of the style show, Runway 139! It will be held on Thursday, September 21st and will be the icon of fun meeting fashion.

A night out with the girls is always a good idea and you are sure to go home with some new styles and fun memories, but please no children.

Boutique 139 plans to have 3-4 style shows throughout the year so if you miss out on this one there will definitely be another.

Separate yourself from all the others and take a trip to this timeless, classic boutique. You can experience the revolution in shopping at 7540 Old Monroe Rd. just south of Bastrop and just 15 minutes from Sterlington. We are open Monday-Friday 10-5:30 and Saturdays 10-4. You only have to come in once and you’ll come back often to experience our relaxed shopping atmosphere!

For more information call 318-281-4881 or check us out on Instagram at boutique_139 and on Facebook.

We hope to see you at RUNWAY 139!

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North Delta Food and Wine Festival Third Annual North Delta Food and Wine Festival

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OOD AND BEVERAGE ENTHUSIASTS WILL GATHER IN the Twin Cities the weekend of October 13th through 15th to celebrate the third annual North Delta Food and Wine Festival.

Each year, the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council showcases the talents of local chefs, as well as visiting culinary artists. Proceeds from the event benefit the Arts Council and its efforts to support and promote the arts in Louisiana Cultural Region 8.

The festival kicks off Friday night with the “Rare Culinary Collaboration,” a three-hour tasting extravaganza that features foods created by more than 25 southern chefs. King of Louisiana Seafood 2016, Chef Blake Phillips will serve as emcee for the evening.

Throughout the event, guests will have 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 will also be available for sampling. Festival sponsors will be afforded reserved parking and early admittance to the event before the doors officially open at 6 p.m.

Later that evening, ticketholders will have an opportunity to mingle with their favorite chefs as the party moves to SQ’s on the River in downtown Monroe. Admission to the “Chef’s Party” is included in the $50 ticket price.

Our first two years have been a tremendous success and garnered lots of enthusiasm among participating chefs and festival goers. This year should be even better. With the first year a sellout, the Arts Council expanded in year two and moved to a larger venue for Friday night in 2016.

“The larger venue coupled with an expanded list of participating chefs provided a great evening,” recalled Barry Stevens, President of the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council.

While the list of participants is not finalized, a number of local chefs have committed to the event, including Thurman Dickey of Thurman’s Food Factory, Rachel Genusa-Dickey of Genusa’s Restaurant, Chris McKnight of The Fat Pelican, Durwin Francescon of Restaurant Sage, Leah Parker from Iron Cactus, Angie O’PryBlades with The Good Earth Juice and Salad Bar, Joel Myers of Castor and Chickory, Cody Wallace, Chef Pat Nolan of Pat Nolan Catering, Dana Milford with For His Temple Family Foods, Clélie Stone of Stone House Eats in Rayville and Mitch Bratton with Willie’s Truck

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Yard in Monroe and Lake Charles.

Traveling from beyond the Twin Cities are notable chefs Ryan André of City Port Brasserie in Baton Rouge, Simon Brown of Seafood R’evolution in Ridgeland, Mississippi, Blake Jackson of Drake Catering in Shreveport, Mark Quitney and Deanna Hoffman of Roux Bistro-Sheraton New Orleans, Tom Ramsey from stäge in Jackson, Mississippi and Jeremy Enfinger of County Seat restaurant in Livingston, Mississippi. These chefs will participate at the Friday evening tasting and stay to contribute their talents throughout the weekend.

Chef Tom Ramsey of Jackson, Mississippi will co-host a wine and food pairing event at Restaurant Sage with Chef Durwin Francescon.

Tom loves to share his expertise as a sommelier and Durwin has partnered with him to bring back this popular event.

Area restaurants will also host seated, multi-course dinners Saturday night. They will be offering elaborately planned meals prepared by celebrated chefs. Working with Chef Chris McKnight at The Fat Pelican will be a group of chefs he has assembled. A lover of pairing food, wine and beer, he will present a meal designed to celebrate all three.

Gluten free is the focus of the evening at For His Temple in West Monroe. Dana Milford has put together a five-course meal sourced locally and all gluten free. For those diners requiring a dairy free option, she will be able to accommodate that requirement also.

Not one to be out done, Chef Pat Nolan is set to host an evening of fine food and wines at her location on Louisville Avenue. All Saturday night events will be giving back to the arts by donating a portion of their proceeds to a designated arts organization.

If these activities aren’t enough for you, you’ll have the chance Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to sample craft beers and partake of lighter fare on the first ever Brew on the Bridge, which will be held on the Endom Bridge spanning the Ouachita River. The bridge will closed for three hours, allowing patrons plenty of time to enjoy food, beer, and fun. Area musicians will provide a live music backdrop while you stroll the Endom Bridge and enjoy the one-of-a-kind view.

Sunday, October 15th, the festival concludes with a Southern Fried Chicken and Champagne Bruch at Casio’s Chateau in Monroe.

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> WHITE BOOTIES

At first I wasn’t a huge fan of this trend but the more I see it the more I’m liking it. These are definitely for the bold.

A. ALDEN’S MEMO Atlanta and Dallas based fashion sales representative for Reeves & Company, Analeise Thomas, details her guide to Fall Fashion 2017.

Fall Fashion 2017

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eptember marks the beginning of Fall fashion, even with temperatures nearing the melting point. Despite the debilitating heat, fashionable women everywhere still find excuses to wear their suede boots, cashmere v-necks, and leather leggings once August is behind them. This season there are a few carryover trends from last year in combination with some new trends that I didn’t see coming. Adding a few of these fun, trendy pieces to your wardrobe will surely make you a fashionista this season.

< FUR

The perfect topper for any cocktail party or paired with denim for a fun night out.

> FISHNETS

Fall 2017 fashion is all about throwbacks and this trend definitely takes us back to the 80s and 90s.

> GLITTER/METALLIC

The return of the 70s – I’m really into glitter boots and will definitely by getting a pair soon!

WESTERN/AMERICANA

This trend seems to go in and out of style every few years and I always wait for its return!

< MIDI SKIRTS

I love when a trend is extremely wearable for everyday, parties, church, etc.

The midi skirt is just fabulous.

RED

The color red exudes confidence, power, romance and looks great on all skin tones and hair colors.

< VELVET

This was one of 2016’s biggest trends and we just couldn’t get enough, because it is back.

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> WIDE BELTS

I wish I had saved all of my wonderful wide belts from high school (although I doubt they woud still fit!)

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CH R IST IEN KO LLE CT ION C H R I S T I E N M C C R AY ’ S O N A M I S S I O N TO TA K E B E S P O K E S U I T S B E YO N D B L AC K A N D B R OW N

ifteen years ago, Christien McCray was on the football field, geared up for the big game and the opportunity to play college ball. For a young black kid from Ferriday, football was a great opportunity to get out of the Delta parishes, if only for a while. After a year at Louisiana College, he transferred to ULM with designs of becoming the young, hip professional he wanted to be. There was only one problem: suits off the rack didn’t allow him to express the individuality he had been able to capture with urban apparel and accessories when he was younger. That’s where his story changes.

“I always thought I’d be in the NFL, going that route,” he says. “But becoming a fashion designer? That never crossed my mind. But that’s what happened.”

Christien wanted to be well-dressed – he had loved suits from a young age – but he found it difficult to express himself in blacks, grays and browns from the local men’s stores. He was good with his hands, though, and he knew there was something to be said for simply creating that which he couldn’t find.

So in 2011, he strolled into Jose the Tailor, a local tailor’s shop off of 18th Street in Monroe with an offer. He would work for free if Jose would teach him how to sew. For the next few years, he mastered the skills necessary to build high-quality, fashionable suits and jackets.

Apprenticing with Jose gave him an appreciation for quality and attention to detail. He also learned about the various cuts of suits, the shapes of lapels, and the types of fabrics that go into making suits. Just four years later, he debuted the Christien Kollection’s first Spring line, during Fashion Week in New York City.

The first spring line was revolutionary.

Each of the collection’s suits is a study in contrasts and colors. The cuts of the jackets are at once traditional – there are dinner lapels, European lapels and traditionals, watch pockets and tucked vents – and anything but traditional. For one blazer, Christien employed a vibrant, fuscia silk embroidered with a loose floral design. It’s a stunning look that he paired with a Cerulean vest-and-pant ensemble and complementing robin’s egg tie.

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A SECOND SELECTION from the debut collection featured a vibrant, almost metallic gold damask, which in spite of dinner lapels, works well with dark slacks or a pair of designer jeans. A third offering was even more stunning – purple paisley doublebreasted suit with a matched purple and gold bowtie. For each of the creations, Christien drew inspiration from the season.

“When you think about Spring, we’ve been layered up for the winter and we start coming out of it,” he says. “And we start thinking about flowers in bloom and life coming out of its shell.

That was my inspiration — do with suits what we do with flowers and bring out the color. It really was capturing the essence of spring in a collection of suits.”

This bold choice turned heads in New York, where Christien Kollection’s debut Spring line struck a chord. The collection was well received and in short order, Christien’s creations were on the red carpet at the BET Awards and the Golden Globes.

A fall line followed just a few months later, and Christien Kollection kept this debut close to home, rolling out the new designs during New Orleans fashion week. For the Fall Collection, he chose more traditional fabrics, pairing them in unique ways.

He also began experimenting with the cuts of suits, the shapes of lapels. If the Spring Collection was about announcing a new birth, the Fall Collection was about creation’s adolescence.

A traditional, double-breasted wool suit, complete with gold buttons, wears nicely. Christien added his own flair, though, by choosing a vibrant red wool, which he accented with an equally bold bowtie and red suede shoes. He had another goal in mind, too, with the fall collection.

“My inspiration was the red carpet and bringing a fresh perspective to the various looks of lapels,” he says.

Perhaps that’s why one of the more memorable creations in the Fall Line was a traditional tuxedo with tapered black sleeves, a smart, English lapel that’s neither too narrow nor too broad, and double-breasted buttons just below the sternum for a tighter wear.

That the jacket’s base fabric is an imperial red Asian floral brocade is just a bit of icing on this bespoke cake.

As with his Spring collection, his fall lines blew audiences away. Christien McCray was a name people were starting to recognize in fashion circles, though he’s quick to point out that he’s not Tom Ford. (The “yet” almost sounds implied.)

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hristien’s designs underscore both an innate talent for design and a passion to create something new. Flipping through the Christien Kollection lookbook, it’s apparent his skills at building suits are solid, as is his eye for the unique accents and the attention to detail – the pants break just so right above mid-shin, and a vintage, double-buckle shoe in brown is somewhat counterintuitive for a plaid suit. Yet Christien pulls it off. Part of that is because he knows how to play to an audience.

“People love the bold colors and going against traditional fabrics and patterns you typically find in suits,” he says. “It takes someone who’s bold and confident to wear one of those pieces.”

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With the Fall 2015 collection, he also introduced his first creations for women. This year, he’ll roll out a complete women’s line for Spring 2018. As with his bespoke suits for men, each piece he’s creating for women includes that signature, Christien McCray drama.

He’s also branching out into bolder choices for construction, as well. In both his men’s and women’s lines, Christien has begun to experiment with pairing fabrics and leather.

A women’s pea-coat dress in a mottled red-andblack wool sports a vivid, red crushed velvet lining inside patent leather sleeves. The leather returns on the shoulders and in a single accent on the right collar, picking up on the militaristic trend in contemporary fashion.

That’s part of the secret of Christien’s appeal. The pieces he creates are at once haute couture and pret á porter. These aren’t think pieces meant to inspire. They’re creations he’s intending buyers to wear regularly, an innovation that’s reflected in the pricepoint.

The cost of a Christien Kollection bespoke suit ranges from around $850 to just over $1,000 for a complete suit. That’s more than a typical BOGO at Men’s Wearhouse, but far less than others.

“We’re higher than off the rack, but much less than your normal bespoke suit,” he says. “If you have a little extra money, you can definitely afford one of my suits.”

He’s keeping his Spring 2018 collection close to the vest, but he’s excited to bring it to market, especially his women’s line.

“The buzz is already in the air,” he says. “Women have asked me for the longest time when I was going to do a women’s line…”

Christien Kollection will debut their Spring 2018 line later this year. You can find out more about Christien McCray or order clothing from his 2015 lines at www.christienkollection.com

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Think. Act. Move.

Cathi French Roberts and Lori French are intrigued with home, fashion, music, far flung travels, and artisan moments.

Cathi and Lori have been involved in the international fashion and design industry for the past 25 years. A myriad of projects have given them vast opportunities to travel throughout North America and Europe.

Join them for a colloquium of inspiration and ideas for your life and home. Casual can be elegant and fun rises to all occasions.

by Cathi French Roberts & Lori French

Illustration by Michael Garriga

Overlapping Style

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ver wonder how women’s apparel designers garner information for their next collection? Of course it is nature and travel and daily experiences, but it is interesting to discover that many ideas and concepts are directly translated and borrowed from interiors. So the next time you wear an animal blouse or a jacquard jacket or a pin-striped pajama pant – you might find that same fabric and pattern is in the lobby of an international luxe hotel or downstairs in your living room!

Exotics

Vintage exotics whether tortoise

shells or zebra rugs can make a strong statement in your home. If you are not carrying your python or animal skin clutch handbag, why not display it in a bookshelf for depth and interest.

Looking at your personal objects in a different way triggers creativity.

Grommets

Many times the infusion

of what is referred to as “high/low” or “strong/soft” in fashion has a beginning in furniture. Grommets have been around since the days of lavish castles and estates and actually did have a purpose of construction and not only decoration. Lately the infusion of grommets and studs and hardware have made their way into mainstream clothing collections. Gorgeous soft supple buttery leathers with these hammered details are dynamic and worthy of a history.

Animal Prints

Don’t you just love an accessory that goes

with practically any outfit you choose for your day’s excursions? Animal print is definitely one of those favorites. There is a reason that many interior designers love to place a “pop” of animal fabric or pillow or even lamp shade into a room. It instantly ignites the space as a modern classic look.

Q&A

with Cathi and Lori

Q. With fall weather approaching, I am ready for a change in my living room. What can I do that is easy but still makes a statement?

A. We can help you! Sometimes just moving, adjusting, and re-interpreting your current furniture and objects can make a world of difference. We can recycle your treasures!

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FOR YOUR OWN FRENCH TWIST CONSULTATION, CALL CATHI AND LORI AT 318-355-3041 Q. I can’t figure out the puzzle of how to “pull together” my entry way and dining room.

How can I make them relate?

A. We can make suggestions for furnishings, lighting and décor that will help complete the space to make it unique. It should be inviting and reflect who you are to your guests.

Q. I am so tired of my house but don’t have a big budget. Can I still make improvements?

A. Yes! We can work with what you have throughout your home and make it fresh and modern. We are flexible to help you update at your pace.

Experience LA Tech Game Weekends Loyal Blue Weekends in Ruston

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HERE ARE FEW THINGS LINCOLN Parish loves more than football season.

Game days and tailgating are a special time when students, alumni, locals and visiting fans come together to socialize, eat great food and cheer on their favorite team.

For Louisiana Tech’s 2017 football season, Ruston will play host to seven game day experiences for locals and visitors alike – Loyal Blue Weekends.

Loyal Blue Weekends will consist of Rock the Railroad in Downtown Ruston on Friday nights before home games.

These events are themed with live music, food and brews. Unique pop-up shopping opportunities will be available in Railroad Park, as well as the Tech Bar Bop Band making special appearances in downtown stores and restaurants. Saturday activities follow with downtown shopping and dining, shuttle services and tailgating outside of Joe Aillet Stadium.

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The first Loyal Blue Weekend will be celebrated September 1-2. LA Tech is up against Northwestern State University and Ruston intends to “Celebrate the State” the way football lovers should! Starting at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 1, Rock the Railroad will begin with live music and a pep rally with LA Tech spirit groups. The celebration continues with Louisiana’s favorite food and brews – jambalaya, meats pies, boudin, cracklins, beignets and Abita Brewing Company on site. On Saturday, Bulldog fans can take advantage of downtown shopping and dining prior to kick-off. Locals and visitors can avoid game day traffic by parking downtown. Shuttle services will be provided from Downtown Ruston to Joe Aillet Stadium and back again, running continuously starting at 1p.m. until one hour after the game ends.

September 8, come out and celebrate

“Bulldogs and Brews” as LA Tech takes on Mississippi State. Rock the Railroad will have Josh Madden Band on stage, food trucks on site, and tastings from Flying Tiger, Ouachita Brewing, Great Raft and Red River Brewing.

Then on September 29, get a sneak peak of the fall Ruston Makers Fair at “Makers Night.” Food and brews will be on site, along with live music and pop-ups from local artists.

Embracing football traditions makes Ruston & Lincoln Parish Louisiana’s College Town. Grab some lawn chairs and blankets and invite your friends and family to Downtown Ruston every home game weekend as we celebrate Louisiana’s culture and loyalty to the Bulldogs. For more information and a complete list of events, visit www.experienceruston.com or give us a call at (318) 255-2031.

AcuPulse and FemTouch Laser Teatments for Facial and Vaginal Rejuvenation

BY TIMOTHY J. MICKEL, MD, CERTIFIED, AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY

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OSMETIC LASER TREATMENTS OF THE FACE HAVE come a long way in the last 25 years. Older lasers treated the skin with a solid beam, so after treatment you looked like you stuck your head in an oven. Newer lasers split the beam into hundreds of small beams that leave tiny islands of normal skin untreated - providing a safer, gentler and more comfortable treatment. One of the newest of these state of the art devices is the AcuPulse fractionated CO2 laser.

Fractionated CO2 lasers treat a broad range of skin conditions including skin discoloration, sun damage, mild skin laxity and fine lines and wrinkles. In my experience, one of the best uses of this laser is to treat radial lines around the mouth. These wrinkles result from repeated underlying muscle activity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; such as whistling, pursing the lips, using a straw, etc. This muscle tension around the mouth eventually leads to the radial lip lines that most women over 50 begin to notice in the mirror.

Unfortunately, there is no perfect treatment for wrinkles around the mouth. Because these wrinkles result from underlying muscle activity, the ideal treatment would include removing the muscle to prevent the wrinkles from coming back. Obviously this is not an option.

Without the oral sphincter we would have difficulty speaking and be unable to keep food and liquids in our mouths. So the best we can do is minimize - but not completely erase - these wrinkles, and this requires a combination of treatment modalities.

First, I use the AcuPulse fractionated CO2 laser to smooth the surface of the wrinkle and thicken the collagen layer beneath it. Four to six weeks later, I use low dose Botox across the upper lip to weaken the muscle, reducing the effect of underlying muscle activity without making you drool. Finally, I inject a thin material into the skin over the top of the wrinkle to help fill it in. The combination of Botox and fillers can be done at the same visit.

The fractionated CO2 laser also has a range of gynecologic uses, including mild stress urinary incontinence, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse and vaginal laxity after childbirth. As you well know, any of these symptoms can make you purse your lips, exacerbating peri-oral wrinkles so treating both areas works synergistically.

The FemTouch attachment allows rapid, safe, comfortable, nonsurgical treatment for these peri-menopausal symptoms and has revolutionized laser vaginal rejuvenation. Since vaginal treatments are outside my area of expertise, I have a cooperative arrangement with the board certified Gynecologists at The Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Clinic who will perform the FemTouch treatments in the comfort and privacy of my office.

So whether you have peri-oral wrinkles or peri-menopausal vaginal symptoms, call Mickel Plastic Surgery at (318) 388-2050 and set up a consultation to see if AcuPulse or FemTouch is right for you.

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BAYOU OUTDOORS

article by Dan Chason he old saying that there is “more than one way to skin a cat” could not be more true when it comes to fishing. If you talk to 100 anglers, you will get 100 different perceptions on what is the go-to bait or lure in the summertime. We all have our preferences but one thing shows the “proof is in the pudding.”

I recently made a late afternoon trip to a honey hole of mine. I have fished this area hundreds of time and find myself reaching for the same trusty presentation. On this day, I decided to change it up and try some alternative presentations. To my surprise, I had one of the best afternoons ever as I landed 19 bass and never moved my boat. I returned the next day and expanded my area and landed 26. All on lures I have fished my whole life: A Texas rigged worm, a Wobblehead and a whacky worm.

Years ago, there were basically two rigs for worm fishing. There was the standard Texas rigged worm where the worm weight is tied directly above the hook and fished on the bottom.

Problem is bass don’t always hang right at the bottom. So somebody on the east coast figured out that if you put the weight a distance above 88 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

the worm and hook, and use a light plastic worm, you can catch fish suspended above the bottom. It is called a Carolina Rig. This rig is very popular in deep lakes that have either standing grass, structure or ledges. It is a great lure for finding brush tops and the options are endless when it comes to lure selection.

Then there is the whacky worm. It was named this as the inventor also had a line of worms that just looked “whacky” when pulled through the water. This presentation can be done with a straight worm, Senko or any “do nothing” worm. The worm is hooked in the middle, and when retrieved, it looks like a creature “crawling” through the water. When you add a worm weight (or a paneling nail) to one end of the worm, the worm will dive when the retrieve is stopped.

This is great for bedding fish as you can literally jig this lure up and down in the same spot which drives them crazy.

My all time favorite hot summertime lure is a Wobblehead. I have fished this lure since the early days when it was made by Cotton Cordell.

The only problem then was the hook would not stay in place. This was remedied when Mike Savage from Monroe bought the Company

and replaced the rivet that held the hook with a new system that works really well. A Wobblehead is not hard to fish. It is a chunk and wind lure as long as you have the worm hooked correctly and have a reel with the right ratio for speed control. You can overfish the lure which makes it spin.

I won’t get into the other variations of worm fishing, but I will back up and give you some tips on how to fish these worm techniques and have good results.

With a Texas worm, the biggest issue is that most anglers try to fish it way too fast. If you have a reel with a 6.3 to 1 ratio, remember that the lure moves 6.3 inches every time you wind the reel. The faster the reel, the more the lure moves. Texas rigged worms are fished with the ROD….not the reel. The reel is simply to keep a tight line and for a hook set and retrieve. Cast the worm, let it fall to the bottom. Keep your rod at the 12 o’clock position. Drop to 6 o’clock (on a tight line) and raise SLOWLY back to the 12 position and steadily wind up the slack. When you feel a bite, drop the rod back to the 6 position and set the hook straight up while winding. For this rig, I like a 4.0 or 5.0 off set hook.

With a Carolina rig, my preference (being right handed) is to cast and put the butt of the rod on my right side. I then retrieve with a slow sweeping motion to my right. The hook set is a sweep to the right as I wind hard. I do

this as I have found that setting a hook on a Carolina rig straight up can cause a whipping action on the hook. This can pull the hook away from the fish. By keeping the action in a straight line, I don’t lose as many fish. For this rig, I use an Owner 2.0 or 3.0 offset hook.

The Whacky Worm is a very easy worm to fish. The same method we used for the Texas rig applies here with one exception. I start at the 12 position and only go down to the 10 o’clock position while constantly twitching

the rod tip. Strikes are usually a hard, vicious strike or many times they will pick it up and swim to the side with it. A high speed ratio reel is needed here as they love a whacky worm in the summertime and will hit it and take off. I catch a lot of them that pick it up and swim straight at the boat.

Wobblehead fishing is not hard at all.

You can catch a how-to video on YouTube by typing in Wobblehead or my name. This video was made in 1996 for Bass Pro Shops and will show you exactly how to fish it from A-Z. I would recommend a 5.4 to 1 ratio reel, 12 pound test line and a good worm rod. There is no fun like Wobblehead fishing. Remember to find the grass and fish the edge. It is not made for fishing around heavy structure as it will hang up in mid air. The lure tends to roll over when it hits structure but the payoff is big bass and lots of them.

The secret to any worm fishing is simple: Fish slow, then slow down.

Don’t waste some prime fishing time by laying up in the air conditioning because it is hot. The day I caught these beauties were the days where we had over a 100 degree heat index. I assure you that if you will try these tips, you will find success. Remember to hydrate, wear sunscreen and always wear a life jacket when you are running the big motor.

Good luck and I’ll see you on the water.

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Coburn's Supply Co. New ActiClean Self-Cleansing Toilet

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OVIE STARS. HEADS OF STATE. YOUR MOTHER-INlaw. With the new ActiClean self-cleaning toilet, you’ll be ready. In a world full of surprise visitors, it’s nice to know you can always count on a clean toilet.

ActiClean® is a self-cleaning toilet with a safe but effective American Standard cleaning solution that cleans and removes stains with a simple press of a button. It features two cleaning cycles; Deep Clean and Quick Clean, and comes with a 9-week supply of cleaning solution (based on a usage of 1 Quick Clean and 1 Deep Clean per week).

KEY FEATURES INCLUDE: • The Quick Clean Cycle is a one minute cycle and is best used for regular upkeep • The Deep Clean Cycle completely and thoroughly cleans the inside of the toilet bowl in 10 minutes • CleanCurve™ Rim eliminates the rim area where dirt and buildup hide • The whole toilet surface is finished with an EverClean® glaze which is super smooth and easier to keep clean, even after years of use • Battery Operated Cleaning System is powered by 4AA batteries that give you up to 1 year of battery life

The result is a freshly scented, sparkling clean bowl! Easy to install and beautiful with any bathroom design, ActiClean from American Standard is ready no matter who walks through the door.

See how it works at Coburn Supply located at 1300 Natchitoches Street on September 1st when the Beauty In Motion Tour is in town.

The Beauty in Motion tour is a showcase of some of the newest designs and collections offered by American Standard, DXV, and GROHE for today’s homes. The mobile showroom allows trade professionals, designers, and home owners full access to see, touch, and try five working toilets, 20 working faucets, and a variety of Grohe touch items on display.

The ActiClean toilet will also be on display at Coburn’s of West Monroe and Coburn’s of Ruston, contact your local Coburn’s showroom for an appointment to fit your schedule. Let Michelle Miller and the showroom team answer your questions, and share their experience with the building or remodeling process, to help guide your selections.

COBURN SUPPLY COMPANY, INC., founded in 1934, has more than 50 locations in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee and Alabama. Coburn’s offers innovative products for kitchen and bath, residential and commercial plumbing, HVAC, electrical, builder/contractor, and waterworks projects, with fast and efficient customer service. Visit us soon….and see what’s new.

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Medication Health

Safe Use of Medicines for Older Adults

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EDICINES HELP US LIVE LONGER AND HEALTHIER. But, taking them the wrong way or mixing certain drugs can be dangerous. Make sure your doctor knows about ALL the medicines you take. This includes those prescribed by other doctors, as well as vitamins, supplements, herbal remedies, and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs you use every now and then.

What You Need to Know About Your Medicines

Talk with your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider before starting a new medicine. Go over your allergies and any problems you have had with other medicines, such as rashes, trouble breathing, indigestion, dizziness, or mood changes.

You will also want to find out whether you’ll need to change or stop taking any of your other prescriptions or OTC drugs while using this new medicine. Mixing some drugs can cause unpleasant and sometimes serious problems.

Because of this, it is important to keep a list of all prescription drugs and OTC remedies you take. When starting a new medication, write down the name of the drug, why it’s being prescribed and any special instructions for how to take the medicine.

How Can a Pharmacist Help?

A pharmacist can answer many of your questions about prescriptions and OTC drugs. Try to have all your prescriptions filled at the same pharmacy so your records are in one place. This will help alert the pharmacist if a new drug might cause a problem with something else you are taking. If you’re not able to use just one pharmacy, show the pharmacist at each pharmacy your list of medicines and OTC drugs when you drop off your prescription.

When you have a prescription filled: • Tell the pharmacist if you have trouble swallowing pills. There may be liquid medicine available. Do not chew, break, or crush tablets without first finding out if the drug will still work.

• Make sure your doctor and pharmacist have an up-to-date list of your allergies so they don’t give you a medicine that contains something you are allergic to.

• Make sure you can read and understand the name of the medicine as well as the directions on the container and on the color-coded warning stickers on the bottle. If the label is hard to read, ask your pharmacist to use larger type.

• Check that you can open the container. If not, ask the pharmacist to put your medicines in bottles that are easier to open.

• Ask about special instructions on where to store a medicine. For example, should it be kept in the refrigerator or in a dry place?

• Check the label on your medicine before leaving the pharmacy. It should have your name on it and the directions given by your doctor.

If it doesn’t, don’t take it, and talk with the pharmacist.

Source: National Institute on Aging

The St. Francis Community Health Pharmacy is located within the St. Francis Community Health Center at 2600 Tower Drive. Featuring a convenient drive-through, the pharmacy is open Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, call 966-6290.

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Munchkin Market

Northeast Louisiana’s Original Children’s Consignment Sale

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ALL IS ALMOST HERE AND THAT CAN ONLY MEAN one thing, The Monroe Munchkin Market Event is just around the corner. From September 27th-30th, the Fall/Winter event will be held at Pine Grove Baptist Church Gym, located at 4300 Loop Road in Monroe. There will be new and gently used children’s clothing (girls: newborn to junior; boys: newborn to 18), toys, books, DVDs, baby equipment, furniture and gear, shoes and much more.

Monroe Munchkin Market is a small business started by longtime friends and moms, India Gregg and Amie Smith, both of Monroe.

“We are moms and know the expense of trying to keep your children clothed. At Munchkin Market, You can buy your child’s whole season wardrobe…one-stop-shop! We help a huge number of families in our community clothe their kids for less and also donate after the sale to help out even more families!,” says India.

The sale is open to the public Wednesday, September 27, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Thursday, September 28, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Friday, September 29, from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Saturday, September 30 from 9:00 a.m. – 2 p.m. On Friday and Saturday, everything marked in RED is ½ price. There is no charge to shop during the public sale!

Don’t want to wait? An Early Bird Presale is available for eager patrons from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Tuesday, September 26th for $10.

Are you a new mom or mom-to-be? Simply register online at www. monroemunchkinmarket.com and you can shop at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, September 26th. Grandparents are welcome, too!

Ever wanted to consign? There are so many perks to consigning with Munchkin Market… now is your chance! With 400+ consignors, our consignors make on average $300-$350. You can’t beat that and it is safer and easier then meeting up at Target to make $2 from selling on a Buy/Sell/Trade group. Also, you will make more at Munchkin Market than selling at the local Children’s resale store! And last but not least, if you consign and volunteer, you get to shop FIRST! What are you waiting for? Sign up to consign NOW at www.monroemunchkinmarket.com.

You don’t want to miss out on this event. The Fall/Winter event will be their 20th sale and they have big things planned! Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram to get in on their awesome giveaways – they’ll be giving away 20 gift certificates in the 20 days leading up to the sale!!!

Once you experience the Monroe Munchkin Market, you will keep it on your calendar for years to come. For more information about the sale visit www.monroemunchkinmarket.com, Follow Monroe Munchkin Market on Facebook and Instagram or send an email to info@monroemunchkinmarket.com.

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Azure Pools and Spas More Than Just Pools

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ZURE POOLS AND SPAS HAS BEEN YOUR LOCAL pool professional since 2006. In addition to selling liners, above ground and in ground pools, they offer a great selection of products and supplies to help take care of your pool all season long. Fully stocked with reliable brands for your convenience, their knowledgeable staff can help answer all your pool-related questions. As a member of The Backyard Place, they provide quality products and dependable service to all of their customers. Azure’s has a reputation for excellence and continuous service to the community with high-quality pool supplies and service.

However, Azure has more than just pools. They are known across Northeast Louisiana for their spa selection. They make having a spa in your own backyard a possibility! You can choose from Hot Springs or Jacuzzi spa and have it delivered right to your backyard.

At Azure Pools & Spas, we aim to make life easier for you and offer everything you need to make your spa both decorative and functional. Choose from simple spas for relaxation or one that makes a backyard statement. Plus, you can accessorize your spa with LED lighting, integrated entertainment systems, water features and Azure can provide the supplies and chemicals.

Azure is the exclusive carrier for Hot Springs Spas and Jacuzzi, and is the only authorized dealer in the Ark-La-Miss region!

To add even more to your backyard, check out the Primo Ceramic Grills, one of the most versatile outdoor cookers in the world, available at Azure’s. You can use it as a grill, an oven, a roaster, or a smoker with a simple adjustment to the air flow and cooking configuration.

In addition to offering products and service, Azure’s offers convenience with two locations! Serving North Louisiana and South Arkansas, Azure’s is located in Monroe on Hwy 165 North, as well as on Willow Glen in Ruston. Azure’s is locally owned and operated and is your one stop shop to get your backyard ready for all seasons!

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FA S H I O N

FO R THE AG ES For more than 40 years, Pat Costanza didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just follow fashion trends.

She helped set them. ARTICLE BY MICHAEL DEVAULT PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRAD ARENDER

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AT COSTANZA is a striking woman. Petite with dark, almost raven hair, her olive complexion and dark eyes belie her heritage – she was born a Miletello, one of Monroe’s oldest Italian families.

Like many Italian Catholic families in the late 1960s, her parents sent her to St. Frederick High School, where she began to chart her future.

After graduating in 1967, Pat took the next step down the path she’d chosen and enrolled at Northeast Louisiana University, where she majored in Physical Education and History.

Pat Miletello was on track to become a teacher.

“Fashion wasn’t even on my radar,” says Pat. But Fate has a way of intervening, and sometime between college and her return to Monroe after a few years in New Orleans, she developed an interest in fashion and merchandising. At the same time, she reconnected with an old childhood friend, Joe Costanza.

“We’d known one another since childhood,” she says.

“His family, the Costanzas, and my parents, the Miletellos, were friends.”

After a brief courtship, they married and Pat set aside the original path she had chosen in favor of a career in fashion and merchandising. For Joe, Pat became more than just a wife. She became a business partner, confidante and, ultimately, the face of a clothing business that evolved over the course of more than 40 years of fashions.

What would end up for Pat and Joe as a go-to destination for refined ladies’ fashions, had much more humble beginnings. In the early 1970s, Joe’s shop was little more than a blue jeans store. In fact, Pat remembers they didn’t even have sections for men’s and women’s jeans. Instead, she says they sold jeans European-style.

“Back then, women didn’t have jeans in sizes,” she recalls. “They just had waist sizes. Men’s and women’s jeans were unisex, European. They hadn’t evolved into separate departments.”

The shop at the time was tiny, less than 1,600 sq. feet. From that first shop, which she calls “so small,” the couple moved the store to Boyd’s Boutique and, eventually, to a much larger shop on North 18th Street. They remained there through the end of the 1970s, and by 1980 they decided to return downtown, setting up a boutique in the 200 block of Desiard, adjacent to the downtown branch of Central Bank.

Times were changing, though. Jeans were no longer just Lee, Wrangler and Levis, and they weren’t unisex any longer.

Suddenly, jeans went from a pedestrian, unisex offering to haute couture. Gloria Vanderbilt had seen to that with her signature line of jeans for women. Other big designers followed suite and started getting into the game.

Moroccan-born American design magnate Georges Marciano and his brother, Paul, introduced Guess – and stonewashed jeans became all the rage. Another American designer, Calvin Klein, took high-fashion jeans to a new level when he started putting Hollywood starlets in glossy ads. Even a very young Brook Shields was a Calvin girl.

It would have been easy enough for Pat and Joe to follow the jeans craze for another few years, but another change was afoot. For more than two centuries, the intersection of Desiard and South Grand had been the center of commerce in the Twin Cities. Real estate developers on the eastern side of Monroe had designs on changing all of that. While designers were flocking to denim, retailers across the country were busy following another trend – the move to shopping malls.

Pat and Joe decided to evolve their fashion store.

JJ’s Fashions was born. Pat and Joe opened a 3,500 sq. ft. boutique catering to a new class of shoppers, and they introduced separate lines for men and women, including an important group -- juniors. From 1981 through the mid-1980s were the biggest years for JJ’s Fashions.

“Before the mall opened, we were the store for fashions,” says Pat, who selected each item for its uniqueness and style. To stay ahead of the times and remain competitive, they knew the business would have to evolve constantly.

“When the designer jeans came in -- $200 or $300 for a pair of jeans, we didn’t continue on that path,” Pat says. Instead, they transitioned their business into an entirely new direction. “We changed with the times because it was either that or go out of business.”

Pat selected styles that no one else had from lines that few major retailers carried. The result was a carefully curated collection of fashions and accessories and a unique, JJ’s Fashion experience. Every six or seven weeks, the entire stock rotated.

Old items were gone and new looks came in. The result was a perpetually fresh look.

“We wanted something that no one else had – always reaching for the look, the appearance that everyone else lacked,” Pat says. “That’s why you came to JJ’s, because we had those things that everyone else didn’t have.”

In addition to separate men’s and women’s lines, the larger store on DeSiard also afforded them another innovation that, suddenly, shoppers in Monroe were lacking. The store had more than 40 feet of frontage to one of the busiest commercial corridors in the Twin Cities – and display windows along all of it.

Pat hired artists and designers to come in every week and change the windows, from top to bottom. She credits the window designers with helping make the store’s reputation a part of the fabric of Monroe itself.

“The most successful stores are the people who know how to merchandize,” she says. “It’s an art. Like drawing a picture, you put the pieces together and that’s what people like to see when they come in the store.”

THE MOST SUCCESSFUL STORES BELONG TO THE PEOPLE THAT KNOW HOW TO MERCHANDIZE. IT’S AN ART.

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focus on merchandizing had a combined effect of boosting sales and educating customers. People saw the looks in the windows and, inside, on the mannequins, and they decided that’s what they wanted for themselves. An effective window design or mannequin ensemble proved to be a great sales booster, she recalls.

“As the styles came in, people who didn’t know how to put it together could come in and buy the whole thing —and be unique,” she says. “Merchandising the styles that came in was the key to success.”

Also, she employed sales associates who knew how to help people find the best looks for their body shapes and skin tones. That’s also something Pat felt was missing from the “modern” retail experience at shopping malls.

“Knowledgeable, talented salespeople play a vital role,” she says. “Sometimes people don’t know what it’s going to look like. But get them to put it on their body and look at it in the mirror, that’s a key part of the experience.”

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made the decision to focus on ladies’ fashions, introduced sizes for larger women and moved toward professional and more refined attire. Eventually, she introduced ladies’ hats as well. Always, along the way, the window displays remained fresh and vibrant. Pat and Joe sold JJ’s Fashions a few years ago, after more than 42 years of providing stylish looks to Monroe shoppers.

Today, a new iteration of JJ’s Fashions is still providing stylish ladies’ wear to a new constituency from a location on 165 in Monroe. She is still eager to share the fashion and style tips she’s collected over a long and storied career. At the heart of Pat’s style philosophy: simplicity.

“Simplicity makes you look more elegant,” Pat says. “You don’t have to do a lot to look elegant. Too many people go overboard.”

She starts with her hair and makeup, suggesting that these two activities make up the bulk of her style efforts. While makeup is important, she adds it’s almost impossible to overstate the importance of hair care and styling.

“Hair plays a huge part in the rest of your look. If your hair looks horrible, it doesn’t matter what you’re wearing,” she says.

Beyond hair, it’s important to also keep styles and accessories simple – and flattering to a woman’s body shape and coloring. For her, she favors basics on the bottom – pants, skirts in solids and trending toward the darker. Also, she says pay attention to the lines of your body and how they intersect and compliment your clothing choices.

“Most women are dressing to hide areas they feel aren’t as flattering and to accentuate those areas they like,” she says. “Knowing how to wear things that are flowing and have movement is important.”

That doesn’t mean piling on more fabric, she says. Instead, it’s just the opposite. Too much fabric, even flowing, can make even petite women look larger. So, too, can unflattering prints on skirts or slacks.

Instead, she points to a simple edict.

“Solids are universal on people,” she says. “Know which colors look best on you, avoid those that don’t and wear those that do.”

Black is almost a universal color, she adds. But even with black, keep it neat and simple.

Since selling JJ’s Fashions, Pat has turned more of her professional attention to her insurance business, the Costanza Agency. Also, she and Joe continue to evolve their diverse real estate holdings. But fashion is still her first love, and she keeps abreast of the latest trends.

“I probably won’t ever stop working all together,” she says.

Pat and Joe Costanza operated numerous iterations of their fashion and accessories stores for 42 years. They are still anchors of the Monroe Downtown community, hosting gatherings, encouraging the burgeoning arts scene, and operating one of the area’s premier event venues, BellaStanza. And, as always, you can find Pat and Joe at art crawls and other happenings around the Twin Cities. Just be on the lookout for one of the most fashionable couples there.

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Night of the Cakes

Your Opportunity to Make a Difference

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R. DENNIS SWANBERG, MINISTER of Encouragement, will be the Master of Ceremonies, Auctioneer and Entertainer for Quota International of West Monroe’s Night of the Cakes. The annual fundraising event is scheduled for Tuesday, September 26, 2017, at Tennison Hall, First Baptist Church, West Monroe, beginning at 6 p.m. Dr. Swanberg is an all- around teacher, preacher, humorist, and author.

He has a distinctive way of encouraging and motivating through his insightful messages, heartwarming stories and real life experiences.

Night of the Cakes is a unique event that Quota of West Monroe has hosted for 8 years.

Professional cake bakers donate delicious cakes of all flavors, shapes and sizes to be auctioned during the evening, along with specialty merchandise packages to sweeten the deal! “The Swan” will entertain with his wit and humor as he “encourages” the

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bidding war for each specialty package. This year’s specialty cake themes are Hunters’ Paradise, Holiday, Spa Day, Childhood Fun, Louisiana Game Day and Staycation. Winners of the bidding take home beautiful cakes and valuable merchandise. Some packages include hotel stays, restaurant gift cards and game tickets. A silent cake auction will be open for bidding during the evening also.

Gold Sponsors for Night of the Cakes 2017 are Glenwood Regional Medical Center, Music City Studios, and Paramount Healthcare Consultants. These Gold Sponsors and Silver Level Sponsors, along with local donations, make this event possible.

Quota International Inc., is a non-profit organization that empowers women, children, and the hearing and speech impaired in 260 cities around the world. QI of West Monroe exists to support our Northeast Louisiana community. This past year, Quota of West Monroe was able to provide hearing aids

to area children. Monetary donations were made to several service organizations in our community, such as MedCamps. Support for teachers, staff, and students at two parish elementary schools has been a priority to QI of West Monroe and will continue to be of great importance.

Tickets for Night of the Cakes are $50, which includes heavy hors d’oeuvres, silent and live auctions, and lots of fun and entertainment. Tickets are available by Facebook message at Quota International of West Monroe, or email any of the following Quota members: Joellen - speechladyllc@gmail.com Margie – margiefrenchmixon@gmail.com Elicia - elicianugent@comcast.net Corinne – corhpace@comcast.net

A New Vision, Building on Success St. Frederick High School Invites You to Be Informed and Be Heard

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T. FREDERICK HIGH SCHOOL IS KICKING OFF THE 2017-2018 school year with â&#x20AC;&#x153;A New Vision, Building on Successâ&#x20AC;? through a partnership with Development Innovations 360, a Lafayette based consulting firm, that specializes in vitality for Catholic parishes, schools and dioceses. This new vision is a multi- tiered project that will include several key components.

The first component is working with Bernard Dumond, CEO of Development Innovations 360, to outline a new five year strategic vision for St. Frederick High School. This strategic vision is developed through input from key stakeholders and the work of the faculty and staff at St. Frederick High School.

The second component is a Feasibility Study of a new Master Plan that seeks to address the most pressing needs of the physical plant, including a state-of-the-art STREAM Building to provide more classroom space for our ever-growing student population, renovations to existing and the construction of new additional athletic facilities, a new larger chapel and more. This Master Plan was created by the Board of Directors and Warrior stakeholders to ensure SFHS is meeting the demand and growth of our current and future Warrior Family.

SFHS has formed a steering committee of parents, faculty, parishioners, community members and alumni. This steering committee is now asking the Warrior Family to help in the next step of

the feasibility study process, which is meeting with SFHS stakeholders to obtain feedback on the Master Plan proposal.

They are asking all SFHS alumni, Warrior supporters, community members, current, past and future families, and anyone else who would like to participate to join them for a brief one-hour listening forum in the coming weeks. The purpose of the Listening Forums is to share the Master Plan proposal and to seek valuable input about the proposed plan. The committee wants to gain your insight and ideas to help shape the decision on how to proceed with the final Master Plan proposal.

St. Frederick High School has continued to grow and thrive, and now they are ready to build on the successes of their past with a new vision for the future. By participating in one of the five offered listening sessions, you will personally have a hand in helping shape the future of St. Frederick High School. The five listening sessions will be held at various locations and times on selected dates. Each session will only last one hour. The listening sessions are provided, and the committee is excited to present the proposed Master Plan to our Warrior Family.

Please contact St. Frederick High School for more information at 318-323-9636, or you can visit our website at www.stfrederickhigh.org.

The Study will be completed before the end of 2017, and the results will be shared with the community, so join us and come be a part of the new vision for St. Frederick High School.

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The Nude Nomad Celebrates One Year In Business Q & A with Madison Guerriero, Owner of The Nude Nomad

BY B. JONES

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SAT DOWN WITH MADISON GUERRIERO,THE OWNER OF The Nude Nomad, to discuss her first year in business and what it is like to be a young entrepreneur. At age 24, Madison opened a women’s clothing, shoe, and accessories boutique that specializes in unique styles from around the world for teens and women of all ages.

How did you decide to name your boutique The Nude Nomad?

Confidence is the most beautiful thing a woman can wear. When you love who you are and embrace what makes you unique, you can conquer the world. Someone once told me that strong women build each other up; insecure women tear each other down. My purpose is to help build strength and confidence in all women through fashion.

I created the phrase The Nude Nomad to represent a strong woman who is comfortable in her skin and adventurous with her style.

We are all nude nomads at heart.

Looking back on the past year, what is your favorite thing about opening your boutique?

When I first opened, I never expected to personally gain so much from running my own business. I simply wanted to bring fashion-forward styles inspired by my travels and a unique shopping experience to my hometown area. Little did I know the impact my customers would have on my life.

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Flash forward to The Nude Nomad’s one-year anniversary this month, and I can easily say many of these amazing ladies have become great friends. I am so blessed to have met women who define what it means to be a nude nomad. They are strong, courageous and beautiful on the inside and out. They motivate me each day with their kind words, continued support, and friendships. For that alone, I am forever grateful.

What advice would you give other young entrepreneurs?

Do not underestimate what you are capable of accomplishing.

Discover what you are passionate about, do your research, make a plan and execute it. Steve Harvey said it best when he said, “If you don’t take the jump, you will never soar.” So, jump! While you are free falling, you will learn some of the hardest business lessons first-hand that textbooks can never teach you.

One of the biggest lessons I have learned during my first year in business is that there is a difference between working smarter and working harder. Once you figure that out, you’ll be okay.

Celebrate The Nude Nomad’s one-year anniversary with a mega threeday sale event Sept. 21-23! Stay tuned for more details by following The Nude Nomad on Facebook and Instagram. Shop Mon-Sat 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., at 222 Trenton St., in West Monroe.

Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month

Dr. Bart Liles Explains a Disease Not Widely Discussed

BY DR. BART LILES, ADVANCED LAPAROSCOPIC SURGEON & CHIEF OF STAFF AT P&S SURGICAL HOSPITAL

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EPTEMBER IS THYROID CANCER AWARENESS MONTH. While thyroid cancer may not garner the attention that other cancers have, thyroid cancer is still something that should be on your radar.

According to the American Cancer Society, about 45,000 people are diagnosed with thyroid cancer each year in the United States. About 75% of these are women, making it the eighth-most-common cancer in women. Thyroid cancer is most common in adults.

The thyroid gland, which creates hormones that regulate heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and metabolism, is a small butterflyshaped gland located at the base of the throat. There are four main types of thyroid cancer: papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic.

Of these four, papillary and follicular are overwhelmingly the most common types. Medullary is usually associated with genetic or familial mutations that are passed from parents to children. If you have a family member with a diagnosis of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia types 2A or 2B (also called MEN 2A and MEN 2B), or Familial Thyroid Cancer, you should consult a surgeon or endocrinologist to discuss the need for prophylactic thyroidectomy. Anaplastic thyroid cancer, an extremely rare, but highly aggressive form of thyroid cancer, currently has no cure. Again, it is exceedingly rare, so it should not be a primary concern if you have thyroid nodules.

Most thyroid nodules usually cause no symptoms. They are detected incidentally when people get angioscreens, or if your doctor feels a lump in your thyroid. Sometimes, nodules can be large enough to cause difficulty breathing or swallowing, and that is known as a thyroid goiter. When any of these are discovered, ask your primary care doctor for an ultrasound and a thyroid panel. After this, patients are routinely referred to a surgeon for evaluation of the nodules. My first course of action is to refer patients for an FNA (Fine Needle Aspiration), which is a biopsy through a tiny needle. Fortunately, our local radiologists are excellent at these biopsies. Most of my patients report no discomfort with this biopsy.

In the vast majority (80 percent) of the time, the FNA will reveal that the nodule in your thyroid is benign. If it does return papillary or follicular cancer, don’t panic! This is a curable disease for these types of cancer. We would discuss further options, including surgery and radioactive iodine therapy. We are extremely fortunate in this community to have surgeons and endocrinologists who can effectively treat this condition. The important point is this: if you feel a lump in your neck, get it checked out. As the wise old physicians used to say, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

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Wraparound of NELA

New services offer help with ADHD, Migraines and More

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RAPAROUND SERVICES OF NORTHEAST Louisiana is a local, non-profit agency dedicated to providing individuals and families with the latest advances in mental and behavioral health services. Since its inception in 2012, Wraparound Services has worked with more than 1,900 families. During this time of working with youth, Wraparound has pinpointed a need for alternative treatment for ADHD and is now using biofeedback and neurofeedback. These services help strengthen attention skills and are now offered to the public.

WHAT IS BIOFEEDBACK/NEUROFEEDBACK?

Biofeedback is the process of becoming aware of what is going on in your body. Biofeedback equipment is used to gain awareness and control of certain functions of the body such as muscle tension, skin conductance, heart rate, breathing and pain perception. Biofeedback may be used to improve health performance and the physiological changes that often occur in conjunction with changes to thoughts, emotions and behavior.

Neurofeedback is an alternative form of biofeedback training that enables the clients to alter their brain waves by creating new neural pathways and/or reconnecting impaired ones. Just like with biofeedback, when a person is made aware of what is happening in their body, they can learn to change it. You can think of it as exercise for the brain.

WHAT CAN IT HELP TRAIN?

Research findings demonstrate that this training is helpful for ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Migraines, Sleep Disorders and Stress-related symptoms. Neurofeedback can also help maintain and increase brain performance such as increased concentration and memory, increased creativity and problem solving and reduction in performance anxiety.

HOW IS THE PROCESS DONE? Sensors are placed on the scalp, ears and hands to capture brainwave and body activities. The signals are processed by a computer and shown back to the client in the form of images, sounds and/or a game, which assist the client in making changes to brain and body functions. Eventually the body and brainwave activity is "shaped" toward a more desirable, regulated state. It is noninvasive and painless.

If you are interested in learning more about the services Wraparound offers, contact them at 318-654-4245 or find more information online at thewraparound.org.

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Your Hometown Urologist Dr. Robert Marx

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OBERT D. MARX, M.D. IS THIS COMMUNITY’S hometown urologist. He was born and raised right here in Monroe, Louisiana. He graduated from NLU, now ULM, and graduated from medical school and completed his residency at LSU Shreveport. Dr. Marx has traveled extensively working with the leaders of the field in order to keep up with the latest and most successful techniques in incontinence. He has been in practice for more than 30 years and conveniently operates at Glenwood, Monroe Surgical and P&S.

Dr. Marx has 24/7 call coverage with other local urologists. He has a standing relationship with each of the other doctors he shares call with and enjoys working with them and his other peers. The office has a wonderful, knowledgeable staff who have worked with him for many years and the majority of his time in private practice, ensuring good continuity of care. It truly is a family practice that loves taking care of its community.

Specializing in female urology since 1998, Dr. Marx is boardcertified offering specialized care for female incontinence. Dr. Marx promises caring, confidential consultations and personalized solutions for any related problem such as: bladder prolapse, removal of mesh, InterStim, urethral bulking. He also treats male incontinence.

Vasectomies are done in the office with a no-cut technique.

Dr Marx is pleased to provide cutting edge bladder neuromodulation techniques. This is also known as “Medtronic Bladder Pacemaker.” Dr Marx has been implanting InterStims for 8 years. His staff is also thoroughly educated in support of this treatment. Even if your doctor says “you must live with it,” you might not have to.

Dr. Marx prides himself on the personal attention he provides each patient. He understands that this is a sensitive time for you.

Dr. Marx has decades of experience providing careful, appropriate treatment to put you at ease. The office’s goal is to make you feel comfortable, so you can openly address your problems and let us help you fix it.

Conveniently located in the Glenwood Medical Mall, we are happy to be accepting new patients. Contact us today for an appointment.

102 Thomas Road, Suite 108 West Monroe, LA 71291 Phone: 318-329-8464 | Fax: 877-301-5648 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

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Simply Lou Country Music Confidential article and illustration by Lou Davenport

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love music, all kinds of music. There are not many styles of music that I don’t like or at least can’t appreciate.

My Mama passed this love of music on to me and I can’t remember a time she didn’t have music playing, especially country music.

Whenever she was cooking in the kitchen, she had a radio on. She’d sing to me and sometimes we’d sing and dance. She had her favorites, Hank Williams, Ernest Tubb, Hank Thompson, Bob Wills and his Texas Playboys and of course, Merle Haggard. I knew all the words to “Hey, Good Lookin” before I was in kindergarten. Even when I went off to college, I had an 8 track of “Hank Williams’ Greatest Hits” and played it until the tape got all tangled up and I had to throw it away.

I have wondered what she would think of country music today. Like everything in life, it has changed a lot over the years. But, I

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guess she’d probably agree with me that “it ain’t what it used to be.”

Maybe I am just getting old and set in my ways, but, I just can’t seem to listen to modern country music. Now, that’s just MY opinion. I know a lot of people listen to it and love it. That’s okay with me. I’m certainly not trying to influence what sounds good to your ears! I just know what sounds good to mine and “Truck Yeah!” just doesn’t do it for me.

I started noticing a trend several years ago when I’d be driving to work listening to the country radio station. All the songs were beginning to sound a lot like. There were a lot of songs about pickup trucks, drinkin’ beer, and having fun. Hey, that is just fine with me, but, the guys singing sounded like a bunch of 15-year-olds. And, they all seemed to have a certain look: lots of tattoos, muscled up physiques, tight jeans, black shirts and baseball hats. I do understand that record

companies are going to promote what sells the most for them and if a certain “package” is working, then, they’ll keep “packaging” it til something better comes along.

But, that wasn’t what was really bothering me about this new country music.

There’s no soul! There’s no originality. I like mine to be about cheatin’ spouses, broken hearts, hard times, drowning one’s sorrows with a bottle of hard liquor. I like my country music to be a lot more “gutsy!” And the singers don’t have to all look alike. And where are the fiddles and steel guitars?

Now, there are always exceptions to the rule and I have found a few that seem to be going against “typecasting.” Good for them!

These younger artists are very talented and you can find them. They won’t be getting the airtime on radio stations, but they are out there, waiting for you on YouTube or XM radio.

I was listening to Chris Stapleton before he was “suddenly discovered” on the CMA awards. Nothing against Justin Timberlake, but Chris Stapleton doesn’t need anybody else! He’s not just a singer but a prolific songwriter. He formerly played with a bluegrass group, “The Steeldrivers.” But oh, what a voice! Check out “Fool Me Again” on YouTube.

Jamey Johnson. His voice is deep and husky and can make you “cry a river.” He wears a braid in his big bushy beard.

Dierks Bentley. Yeah, he’s young, but his songs have great energy. How can you not like “Gettin’ Drunk on a Plane?”

Hank III, grandson of Hank Williams. I know he may not be for everyone, but this kid sounds so much like his grandfather it’s downright spooky.

Sturgill Simpson. He’s an interesting singer. He seems to be “artsy,” too from the look of his videos. He certainly doesn’t fit into any “mold.”

I still have my old favorites, the ones I never get tired of listening to. I love Dwight Yoakum, especially “Intentional Heartache.”

(I identify strongly with that song) Nobody can pour themselves into a pair of leather pants like Dwight either. Dwight can really act, too! I almost didn’t recognize him in “Slingblade” as the abusive boyfriend!

Willie. Do I even have to write his last name? Willie is like a member of the family.

I remember buying “Stardust” when I lived way up in Aberdeen, Mississippi. Willie can just do anything and do it good. He even has some books that he’s co-authored. They are full of jokes, which he loves to tell and his philosophy of life.

My former brother-in-law told me a story about meeting Willie in Hawaii. Jay was there at some conference and a friend

told him he wanted him to meet someone.

Jay said he was introduced to a little bitty, long haired man who was soft spoken and polite. When he was told the man’s name was “Willie Nelson” it still didn’t occur to Jay who he had just met! I almost keeled over!

George Strait. I discovered George one night watching “Austin City Limits.” I was still living in Aberdeen and had to go all the way to Columbus, Mississippi to order his first 8 track. I’ve loved him ever since.

I have a question though about that song, “The Chair.” I don’t believe for a minute that gorgeous George Strait would have to be in a bar working hard to pick up a woman! But, I guess we just have to “suspend belief!” One thing about George, he is absolutely the most handsome man in country music. He never seems to age!

Merle Haggard. I have already written an entire column about good ol Merle. Still sad that he’s gone, but, he sure did leave us a lot to listen to. God Bless Merle. Maybe my Mama and him and Hank are all up in heaven singing...in the kitchen!

Waylon Jennings. How I miss Waylon.

There aren’t many of his songs that I do not adore. He’s been with me through some good and bad times. Waylon knew what he was singing about and I think that is what made him so great and that black and white guitar!

I’ve saved this last one for a reason. I liked George Jones, but, I wouldn’t say I was a huge fan. When I lived in Aberdeen, George Jones was driving up Hwy. 45 from Columbus in a big Lincoln Continental. The “State Boys” got after him for speeding and he took a side road in a little village called Hamilton. Ol George knew where he was going because this was a “back road” to the Alabama state line. The little road is narrow and curvy and George lost control of the Continental before he got to the state line.

He was unhurt but “drunk as Cooter Brown” so he got hauled into Aberdeen. He was charged with all kinds of offenses and taken to the little hospital to be checked for any injuries. My neighbor worked there so I got to hear a “first hand” report about the biggest celebrity to ever come to Aberdeen!

George first threw up all over the guys who were wheeling him in on a gurney. Then, when he was offered the chance to go to jail or Birmingham to a detox facility, he agreed to go to detox. He wrote the City a check for his fines that ended up being “hot.” The ambulance drivers said he threatened to kill them both for taking him. Oh, George put Aberdeen on the map that day!

The Continental was auctioned to try to recoup some of George’s “hot check” and a man from Hamilton bought it. He had it

repaired and every year he drove it in the Aberdeen Christmas Parade.

Several weeks later, Ol George got pulled over again on I-220 in Jackson, Mississippi. I don’t think the “detox facility” kept him long enough. I have wondered if George ever came back to Mississippi!

Again, George knew all about the things he sang about! They say he settled down in his older years, but, not before he got a DUI for trying to drive his riding lawn mower to a liquor store.

So, I guess the whole point of my “Country Music Confidential” is that I wish the newer country music was more authentic, sung by people who have lived long enough to have had some hard times, have had to overcome obstacles or at the very least, know what they are singing about. Maybe some of them do, but I’m not feelin’ it. Maybe I’m just an old country music snob so shame on me!

Or, I guess I could just write a country song about my own life. I’ve always compared mine to a “bad country song.” “I was left a widow woman with three kids to feed....Got my heart stomped on by a heartless...” Ok, I guess it’s going to need some work! Stay cool and see ya’ll next month!

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MAKING

a STATEMENT

Along with her girls, Cynthia Bailey Ryan is crafting fashionable, one-of-a-kind jewelry.

Her designs are anything but ordinary and her unique style shines in each piece.

Article by APRIL CLARK HONAKER and Photography by BRAD ARENDER

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ablo Picasso famously said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”

Cynthia Bailey Ryan grew up in Monroe, Louisiana, surrounded by a family of artists, so being creative came naturally to her as a child. She said, “I’ve always had an eye for things.” Although a creative field would have been a good fit for her, Cynthia chose to major in psychology and minor in English while earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisiana in Monroe. Now, several years later, she is returning to her creative roots and launching her own jewelry business, CBBR Designs.

As an adult, Cynthia always enjoyed doing creative things for herself. For example, she refurbished furniture or made jewelry for herself and her daughters. But she has only recently begun to take herself seriously as an artist whose work might be of interest to others outside her circle.

Cynthia started making jewelry about eight years ago in support of Hope7, the Trey Altick Foundation. She and her daughters and their friends would gather around the table and string freshwater pearls and crosses to make necklaces and bracelets for the foundation. At the time, Cynthia and her girls knew very little about jewelry making and would tape the ends of each strand for Trey’s mother Helena to finish.

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DURING THIS TIME, Cynthia and her jewelry roundtables Cynthia said the same necklace could be worn with a t-shirt and helped fulfill Hope7’s vision, which is “to take the tragedy of jeans one day and a cocktail dress that night.

Trey’s loss of life and wrap it in layers of love, presenting it back

A frequent buyer of Cynthia’s jewelry, Kristin Brown, echoes to the world as a gem of hope to those in need.” The jewelry that that sentiment, “Cynthia has a core understanding of design, Cynthia, her girls and others made for the foundation has been scale and material. She’s taking natural elements, such as leather, sold to raise money for freshwater wells in impoverished areas metal and stone, and giving them a fresh, modern twist, while where having clean, safe drinking water can mean the difference playing with scale and texture. The best part - her pieces easily between life and death. transition from day to night. I love them!”

The jewelry making sessions not only helped spread love According to Cynthia, her pieces can dress up a simple, and light into the world; they also created a space for Cynthia to casual outfit or just create a unique look. “I truly believe you can talk and share with her girls. “It was something for us to focus wear anything and change your jewelry and shoes, and it will on,” she said, “and when you were finished, you had a sense look different every time,” she said. With her jewelry, Cynthia of accomplishment.”After a several-year hiatus from jewelry tries to make pieces anyone can wear in a variety of ways. “I want making, Cynthia decided to revive those roundtables in late 2015 older people to be able to wear the pieces and still feel the youth to make jewelry from her own designs. She said, “It brings me in them,” she said. “I want people to know they’ll always have closer to my girls. Everyone has an opinion something to put on, and I hope they’ll and a thought. We can do it together.” love it and feel comfortable enough to give Sometimes the girls even design their own me suggestions.”

I TRULY BELIEVE YOU jewelry.

Cynthia loves interacting with her CAN WEAR ANYTHING In bringing their designs to life, customers and creating custom pieces. She Cynthia was determined to master also enjoys following and incorporating AND CHANGE YOUR the whole process from inspiration to trends and trying new things. “There’s so JEWELRY AND SHOES, finish. Over the last two years, she’s much I want to try and do,” she said, “and AND IT WILL LOOK experimented with a variety of materials.

I’m sure there are still some lessons I need After a great deal of trial and error, to learn.” Although years of practice have DIFFERENT EVERY TIME. Cynthia has perfected her art and is on given her confidence, Cynthia admits that her way to a new business centered on she might not have branched out beyond handmade statement jewelry. She also plans to hire assistants to her circle if it weren’t for the support of her friends and family. help construct the pieces as her business grows.

“It’s nerve-wracking to put stuff out there,” she said.

Because her jewelry is handmade, it will always have a Fortunately, her sisters Robin and Tish have been very personal, human touch. “Perfection is not achievable,” she said, encouraging, and her friends Sue Sartor and Polly Spence have “but I strive to make it as close to perfect as I can. I think it looks helped her connect with customers. She said Sue has signed her better, when it’s handcrafted, because you have more quality up to have booths at events, so she’s had to go. The response control.” Plus, a handcrafted piece will be unique. Because her at these events has only fueled her creative fire. “People started pieces are individually made and often use natural rather than buying my jewelry and ordering things and asking for things,” synthetic materials, most are one of a kind. “If a piece is mass she said, “so I had to start producing.” Now Cynthia is motivated manufactured,” she said, “it’s everywhere, and you’re just like equally by her customers. “If they love it and they’re excited, everyone else.” it excites me,” she said. One of her favorite parts of launching For Cynthia, “Style is a personal thing. It’s about what her business has been seeing customers wear her jewelry. “I you like.” Style also provides a way to set yourself apart from appreciate it even more when I see it out,” she said. the crowd, and for Cynthia, there’s beauty in being unique.

Cynthia’s longtime friend and co-owner of Sue*Anu, Sue “Everyone has their own style,” she said, “so if you have your Sartor explains, “Cynthia has always had an innate taste level own look, that can make you beautiful.” and eye for design that is outstanding. I am in love with all of

In the beginning, Cynthia was motivated to create something her pieces but especially the jewelry where she merges modern special and unique for herself, but she also wanted to solve some design elements with antiquity by incorporating vintage chain, of the problems she’d experienced when shopping for jewelry. brooches and other interesting textural elements. She makes She often liked the colors of pieces but disliked how they were put stunning statement pieces which are new and fresh, complete the together. Quality was also an issue. “Using inexpensive things outfit and take it to the next level. Cynthia is a detail girl with an to make a statement just seemed ‘off,’” she said. She wanted to eye for the extraordinary. I am thrilled she is sharing this gift with create something more versatile from higher quality materials. the world!”

To achieve versatility, she creates necklaces with adjustable

Along with her daughters, Cynthia’s friends have also been lengths, so they can be easily worn long or short and layered with a huge part of her artistic development and creative process. other pieces if desired. To ensure quality, Cynthia takes care in They’ve helped her grow, and they’ve added to the fun and choosing the stones, chains, leather and other materials. “I want excitement of what she does. When the enthusiasm is shared, it’s it to feel good,” she said, “and it’s got to be something I would amplified. Cynthia gets together with her friends Christy LeBlanc wear or my children would wear that I like and could see a and Julie Davenport to brainstorm and put the jewelry together. multitude of people wearing.”

They also like to discuss trends. She said, “It’s interesting to try to

Cynthia likes classic lines and classic pieces, so the majority predict what will happen in the future and what direction to go of her pieces have a simple, polished look. She even considers in.” how her pieces look from behind and beads the necklace tails

Cynthia prefers to change things up and said she would get to create “a little surprise” in back. Although most of her pieces bored if she didn’t. Following trends helps generate fresh and have a clean, polished look, they often have a distinctive flair as new ideas. “The rules change all the time,” she said, “and I like well, and they are purposefully made to complement any outfit. to try to figure out why we like things.” When she notices a trend WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 111

in jewelry design, she looks for ways to integrate it with materials she likes. If she notices a trend in materials, she looks for ways to integrate them into her own designs.

Some of her most successful pieces have been lariats and tasseled necklaces. Statement pieces featuring geodes, agate and other stones have also been customer favorites. She is now making a new choker with a long chain that elongates the body, and she’s trying something she said is “a little more messy,” but even these messier pieces will have a focal point. Cynthia calls her style “upscale boho” but said some of the pieces are cleaner and more classic while others have a more luxe, hippy vibe. Variety and versatility are definitely important because she wants to appeal to a variety of people and keep the designs interesting.

“The materials I use are things I love,” she said, “and I love natural things—stones, rocks, logs, things I find outside.” When it comes to creating a piece of jewelry, she incorporates natural materials directly into the design or allows them to inspire the shape in a more subtle way. ynthia also likes to mix materials in unconventional ways. For example, she might add rhinestones or crystals to a natural, neutral piece to make it sparkle.

“I like to combine what hasn’t been combined,” she said. Another way Cynthia likes to combine materials is by adding vintage elements. “There’s so much beauty in natural elements and history,” she said.

Scouring vintage shops for interesting pieces is like a treasure hunt. When she finds something she likes, she then deconstructs and recreates it to infuse new life. “I think it’s awesome to take something at the end of its lifespan and bring it back in style,” she said.

She also loves the nostalgia created by adding these authentic vintage elements. “It reminds me of the jewelry our grandparents or parents wore,” she said, “and it can be passed down for generations if someone keeps bringing it up to date.” Because she loves using vintage pieces in her designs, she’d love to work with clients to revive their old jewelry and create something that can be worn again and kept in the family for years to come.

Thinking up the designs and creating the jewelry are the best parts of what she does, but Cynthia also loves the connections, deepened relationships and sense of community that come with being an artist. “I hope to ride this out as long as I’m enjoying it and having fun,” she said. Creating jewelry and starting her own business have brought her full circle. They’ve made her feel genuine childlike joy and excitement. To remain an artist when we grow up, maybe all we need is a little encouragement and a willingness to feel that childlike joy again.

C

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Fall Favorites The Fleurty Ginger Boutique

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OUR FAVORITE FASHION SEASON IS HERE.....

FALL! Time to set trends, while staying classy and sassy at the same time! Let your wardrobe tell your story, stay true to who you are and don't be scared to try new pieces together while finding the perfect pieces to mix and match!

Our most favorite fall look is an oversized cable knit sweater paired with distressed boyfriend jeans and a short boot. Tuck one side in on your sweater for an edgy look or keep it simple and let it hang!

Boyfriend jeans are a must when it comes to the fall. They are super fab to be the bottom to any outfit from tees to sweaters! Super cute to wear a simple bootie or a wedge tennis shoe with!

Layers, Layers Layers! That's our signature! Stay comfy and cute while layering for your work/school/church/weekend outfit. Make an eye-catching animal print stand out while having it layered with a sweater vest or leather jacket for cool or warm weather!

We are also in love with anything suede! From vests to jackets to tops with accents to boots, you NEED suede in your wardrobe! Be sure to grab your favorites with us!

Camouflage is one of our favorites this season! Such a fun print to pair with florals and grey skinnies! We feel the same about our leopard prints! Consider leopard a neutral and be a brave adding it to your wardrobe! Be a definite trend setter in these prints!

All closets must have a couple sets of short boots! There are many amazing styles this season. From distressed to vintage to cutout to casual, you need to have several pair in your closet for everyday wear!

Lastly, we hope you enjoy this fall season as much as we will!

We want to make your shopping experience relaxed and fun while piecing edgy prints together! Fall brings all of our favorites...sweaters, flannels, boots, layers and, of course, pumpkin spice everything! Let us help you pair your must-have fall colors with your skin tone. The color palette is out of this world for the end of 2017! Stop by, have a cup of coffee, chit chat and let's have a good time! Enjoy the season!

Follow us on: Twitter - @FleurtyGinger Facebook - @TheFleurtyGinger Instagram - @TheFleurtyGingerBoutique Online â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.TheFleurtyGingerBoutique.com Here's to a new new month, new fashion and a new you!

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Beauty From the Ground Up Farm to Fab; Aveda at Arlette

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ARM-FRESH, ORGANIC FOODS ARE the best choice for supporting your health and even reversing signs of aging. Now you can deliver the same power of natural wellness to your skin, hair and body with Aveda. Arlette, Monroe’s Aveda Concept Salon, is dedicated to supporting your radiant beauty using products sourced from renewable plant-based origins.

NATURE IS THE BEST BEAUTY ARTIST OF ALL!

You can trace Aveda’s ingredients back to the farm or harvesting co-op. We call it Soil to Bottle. Our makeup hair, skin, and body products also deliver the Indian healing tradition of Ayurvedic medicine which uses potent herbal extracts as well as organic ingredients. For over 36 years, Arlette owner Rebecca Weatherly, has entrusted the nourishing and healing power of Aveda’s natural ingredients to protect the health and

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nourish the lives of her loyal guests.

Aveda uses the art and science of pure flower and plant essences instead of dangerous ingredients. Our products deliver the Indian healing tradition of Ayurvedic medicine which uses potent herbal extracts as well as organic ingredients.

LET YOUR BEAUTY REGIMEN DOUBLE AS A HEALING RITUAL.

Turmeric, a spice known for its antiinflammatory and antioxidant benefits, is used in the Tulasara Wedding Masque Night and Eye Cremes. Your daily application of these ultra-rich crèmes will deliver the healing power of turmeric as well as a potent blend of plant stem cells and organic apricot seed oil. They work together to help support your skin’s natural repair processes that happen at night.

Jumpstart your skin’s rejuvenating process with a series of facials now available

at Arlette. Our in-house esthetician offers the Tulasara Facial, a Botanical Kinetics facial, the Perfecting Plant Peel, and an Outer Peace facial which addresses acne and other skin sensitivities.

Arlette’s stylists now use Aveda’s Pramasana Scalp Cleansing System to help instantly balance sebum levels, while exfoliating and removing pollution – creating a clean scalp foundation for beautiful hair.

This nature-based treatment has been a curative solution for many of our guests suffering with scalp conditions. It is available in the salon and can also be used at home by your entire family.

If you are pursuing beautiful healing solutions for your skin, hair or scalp, ask for a consultation with the professional staff at Arlette located at 1603 North 18th Street in Monroe. Our number is 318-410-0045 and you can find us on Facebook and Instagram.

Your Next Fine Jewelry Purchase

Dupont Jewelers Has a Wide Selection For Your Next Special Jewelry Purchase!

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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.

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 -ew 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 workhardened 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 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.

We are local and we love what we do. Each ring is fashioned to create a custom fit for your finger. Our 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. 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

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Bath Bombs, Foaming Sugar Scrubs and Bath Salts Deer Creek Bath Co.

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FTER RESEARCHING MANY other bath bomb products out there and seeing harsh ingredients used in them, we wanted to master the perfect bath creation, one that we would use ourselves. We spent many, many hours failing while trying to create the perfect handmade bath bomb, but it finally happened and Deer Creek Bath Co. was born.

When we decided to expand our product line we researched and found that sugar scrubs complimented bath bombs. We bought from other companies and found them to be gritty and rough, so once again we tested formulas over and over until we came up with something unique. The result was a buttery foaming sugar scrub that’s creamy, luxurious and best described as a fluffy-like frosting. Our scrub cleanses, moisturizes, and exfoliates. All of our products are handmade right here in Bonita, LA, using only the highest quality ingredients.

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• O ur Bath Bombs are handmade circular fizzy’s that you drop in a warm bath, infused with skin-nourishing oils such as sweet almond oil and grapeseed oil. The bath bombs release a wonderful fragrance and have Epsom salt for therapeutic healing.

• Our Foaming Body Sugar Scrubs exfoliate and lather up like soap without the oily mess of traditional scrubs. Our scrubs are in a fluffy, frosting-like soap base containing a drizzle of olive oil to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the entire body. Our scrubs can be used both in the bath and shower and feel like butter to the skin.

• Our Bath Salts are everything you need to detoxify, relax, renew and totally pamper yourself! We use the highest quality, USP grade Epsom salt available with magnesium sulfate, known for its exceptional therapeutic value and purity.

Most of our products include Epsom

salt, which relieves stress and relaxes tired, achy muscles, and are enhanced by our extra fragrant aromas. Our bath bombs are mixed with luxurious ingredients like Epsom Salt, Citric Acid, Sweet Almond Oil, and Grape Seed Oil that literally “explodes” like a little bomb in your tub to relax, soothe and make your skin ultra-soft to the touch.

Our goal at Deer Creek Bath Co. is to make fun, fabulous, hand-crafted products from only the finest ingredients that are affordable to everyone. Each product is made fresh to order and created to be different from those of competitors with bold, unique fragrances and bright, saturated colors to make them fun to look at and even more fun to use! With the quality of our products and pricing, we have experienced overwhelming popularity. We sincerely hope our products bring you incredible relaxation that makes you feel and smell fabulous!

The 2017 Holiday Art Brawl A Live Art-Making Competition in Ruston

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N CONJUNCTION WITH THE 20TH Annual Holiday Arts Tour, the North Central Louisiana Art Council will be hosting a live art competition, challenging artists to create original works of art within a 60-minute timeframe in front of a live viewing audience.

Spectators have the opportunity to vote for their favorite work of art by depositing tip money into the Artists’ tip jar. The artist with the most tip money wins the brawl. Artists can also sell the work that they produce at the Brawl. Mediums, styles and approaches will vary according to the individual artists, making this a fun event in which to participate and watch. Bring art supplies, family and friends for support, and be a part of this exciting competition. The Art Brawl will be a part of the Holiday Arts Tour, NCLAC’s weekend celebration of the arts which brings over 1,000 visitors, art enthusiasts, and collectors to historic Downtown Ruston.

WHO CAN COMPETE? The Art Battle is open to any visual artist in the north central Louisiana region.

IS THERE A FEE TO COMPETE? There is a minimal fee of $10 for NCLAC members / $15 for non-members.

WHAT IS THE EVENT DATE, TIME AND LOCATION? The Art Brawl will take place on December 2nd at the Historic Fire Station in Ruston, La, from 10 to 11am.

Spectators can vote as well as bid on the works from 10 to 11:15. Popular Vote Winner will be announced when the votes have been counted. A $100 cash award for the winner will be presented on Dec 2nd at the end of the Holiday Arts Tour at Sundown Tavern in Ruston around 6 p.m.

WHAT HAPPENS TO THE VOTING DOLLARS AND THE SALES MONEY? NCLAC uses the voting money to help fund future art events. Participating artists may

choose to sell the created works with proceeds going to the artist. Winner of the popular vote will receive $100 prize money from NCLAC.

WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? Artists will be required to provide their own equipment and supplies. NCLAC will provide tables, signage, tip jars and advertising. Works can be any size from 11”x14” to 16”x20.”

WHAT IS THE DEADLINE TO PARTICIPATE? Deadline to sign up for participation in the Holiday Art Brawl is Wednesday, November 1st. Apply to be a part of this new exciting art competition at: https://form.jotform.com/62644696419165

For any questions please contact NCLAC at: nclac5@gmail.com.

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Casual Apparel for Life in the Louisiana Outdoors Introducing Bayou Light

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F YOU WERE RAISED IN LOUISIANA, lived near the water, a swamp or river anywhere in the Bayou State, you understand Bayou Light.

Close your eyes and picture this.

It can happen anywhere, anytime and without warning. You can be floating downstream in an aluminum john boat or driving down a narrow roadway alongside a twisting bayou. It’s that perfect time of day when the sunlight slides through dangling streaks of Spanish moss, hanging from the outstretched reaches of a cypress tree. It’s the mystifying glow of warm sunshine illuminating the steam rising from the swampy water. It’s the chirping of a thousand crickets, the gurgling of a nearby bullfrog or the absolute deafening silence as God’s masterpiece is splashed vividly across the canvas in front of you.

Maybe it’s just a fleeting moment or several spectacular minutes, but the

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phenomenon evokes a reaction rendering a person virtually speechless. Beauty so breathtaking there’s no need to speak of it, only soak in the experience with every sense of your being.

This is Bayou Light.

These experiences and the emotions they fashion are the inspiration for a new line of apparel appropriately named Bayou Light.

Created by Chris Hendrix and brought to life by the design of Matt DeVille, Bayou Light was born. The brand depicts the trademark of outdoor life in the south especially along the waterways of Louisiana. The moss-draped bald cypress is the epitome of the Bayou Light. The cypress tree and other icons of the swampy south are at the center of all the designs.

Bayou Light, casual clothing for life in the Louisiana outdoors, was established in the spring of 2017 and has generated

momentum throughout the summer. The line includes a variety of moisture-management fishing shirts in an assortment of colors and designs, featuring unique sublimated imaging, which eliminates fading or peeling.

Bayou Light offers a wide variety of cotton T-shirts, caps, fishing hats and women’s accessories. New items are released almost daily and are available online at bayoulight. itemorder.com.

Coming in the fall, Bayou Light plans to release a line of more upscale merchandise including button-down oxford shirts, short and long-sleeve polos, caps and accessories including coolers, insulated drinkware and beach towels.

Visit bayoulight.com for more information on retail stores in the area where merchandise can be found.

Dream Riverfront Condo: $360,000.00 223 S. Grand Street, Suite 401 in Monroe

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ITH BREAKTAKING VIEWS OF the flowing Ouachita River and Historic Downtown Monroe, RiverScape Condominiums offer a truly unique living experience. The former Penn Hotel has been transformed into a chic, modern living space while preserving many of the historical details that make it one of a kind.

This luxury condominium of 1,874 square feet is complete with two bedrooms and two full bathrooms and is move-in ready.

Suite 401 receives abundant natural light throughout, creating a soft glow from room to room. Custom cabinetry is strategically placed in mind to offer plenty of storage. Solid surface countertops and lots of built-ins including a wet bar with a wine/beverage chiller and a spa bath with towel warmers that complement the perfect relaxing retreat in the city are just a small part of the luxury that awaits this owner.

Along with this exclusive opportunity to experience part of Monroe’s history, this one-

of-a-kind home is complete with many other modern amenities. Included are the security system with coded entry to the building, elevator and your private suite, private/ covered parking and access to the fitness center on the first floor. RiverScape is also proud to be the first residential building in Monroe to offer CenturyLink’s Fiber Optic internet, the fastest internet available in modern technology.

Within walking distance of the Riverwalk, several restaurants, the Arts District and Anna Gray Noe Park, RiverScape Condominiums offer an unrivaled opportunity to live an urban lifestyle in the heart of Downtown Monroe.

Suite 401 also carries an option for a 12-month lease at $2,500/month that covers all amenities listed above with the exception of electricity.

Owner/Listing Agent must accompany showings for access into the building and suite, so please feel free to call 318-884-4121 and let Jason or Jennifer Thomas show you just how extraordinary Downtown Condominium

living can be.

Jason and Jennifer are also very pleased to announce that Castle Hall Condos will be complete by Winter 2017! Keep your eyes and ears open for pre-leasing this Fall! Keep reading! There’s more exciting news!

Two very delicious additions to TFP’s Downtown Developments are coming together very nicely for late November. Monroe’s own Food Network Star, Cory Bahr, will be opening his Parish Restaurant at 318 N 2nd Street, a much-awaited culinary experience! And Chef Pat Nolan will be treating discerning taste buds from her very own Nolan’s Bistro located at 125 St. John Street. Two more fabulous options for Downtown Monroe’s dining pleasure; all within walking distance of TFP’s Lofts, Apartments and Condominiums!

The ease of Downtown Living! Shop, Eat, Play and Stay!

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TEAL ANNIE Stephanie Dugard loves turning the old into something fresh and new. And while making one-of-a-kind jewelry has been her passion, she’s also making natural makeup and organic dry shampoo. article by APRIL CLARK HONAKER photography by KELLY MOORE CLARK

STYLE IS A REFLECTION of who we are. According to artist and maker Stephanie Dugard, “Having a personal style is mixing and making your own look.” It doesn’t have to be trendy, but at the same time, you should be able to mix in trendy pieces if you want.

Stephanie described her own style as natural, earthy, vintage and handmade. Concert tees and hippie skirts are some of her favorite things, and whenever possible, she likes to know the person making the things in her closet.

Because Stephanie grew up watching the Olsen twins, Mary-Kate and Ashley, she said, “I’ve always looked to them for inspiration.” She likes the way they mix vintage and bohemian and said, “When beachy blonde waves and dark roots were a trend, they pulled it off well and still pretty much have the same hair style as 10 years ago.” For Stephanie, style is about confidence and owning who you are. She feels the Olsen twins exude those things.

Another woman whose style Stephanie admires is Iris Apfel. At 93, Apfel is a retired business woman, interior designer and fashion icon. She drew attention when she started wearing non-Western, artisanal pieces to the high-society parties of her clients. Her confidence allows her to pull off eclectic, exotic styles that most people would never dream of, but she’s become a role model for those who dare to be different, and her status has garnered her a fashion exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, as well as a documentary and book about her life and style.

“I mean, who doesn’t love her!?” Stephanie said. “She wears what she wants and rocks it! I love just looking at

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photos of her in her outlandish outfits and accessories. She has created her own look and style with her unique staple eyewear and bold pieces. I think it’s so important to wear what makes you feel good and expresses who you are.”

A brilliantly colored muumuu isn’t necessarily on trend, but Stephanie said that sometimes the long billowy folds of fabric are just what she needs to make herself feel good. “Your style and whatever you wear should make you feel your best and feel beautiful,” she said. “You wear it for you because it makes you feel beautiful.”

Stephanie grew up near Alexandria, Louisiana, in a home where creativity was encouraged. She recalls making sand art and jewelry as a kid but said she didn’t start pursuing her own thing until college. Stephanie majored in family and child studies but was always making and sewing things. “If I wanted something, I’d make it,” she said.

About 10 years ago, Stephanie had the idea to start Teal Annie, which according to her Etsy shop, grew out of her “love of turning the old into something fresh and new.” She chose the name Teal Annie because she loved the color teal, and her middle name is Anne. She also thought of Little Orphan Annie and the idea of giving something a new life. Her husband, Jake, really encouraged her idea and helped her enormously with the marketing side of her business. “When I met Jake,” she said, “I shared my dream with him, and he’s always been a big support.” As a graphic designer, Jake’s skills complemented Stephanie’s, and they were able to get Teal Annie up and running.

THEY CREATED A WEBSITE, Etsy shop and Instagram account for her. In the beginning, Stephanie was also able to sell her jewelry through Songbird, a local boutique owned by Morgan Moore. The success online, through Songbird, and at local makers fairs was encouraging. Since starting Teal Annie, Stephanie has continued to make things. She still enjoys refashioning existing items, but she’s also making original items, such as one-of-akind jewelry and natural makeup, including an organic dry shampoo, powder foundation and beetroot-hibiscus blush.

Around the same time that she was launching Teal Annie, Stephanie was also working as an assistant and stylist for Kelly Moore Clark, who was promoting her new company Kelly | Moore Bags. For four years, Stephanie used her creativity and fashion sense to style photoshoots that showed off Kelly’s bags. She chose the models, outfits, location, hair and makeup. She said styling the shoots was her favorite part of this job, and it helped her grow into her own personal style.

After she had her first child, a daughter named River, Stephanie decided to scale back her work schedule and focus more on being a mom.

At the same time, making things is so inherent to who she is that giving it up wasn’t an option. “I’ve learned how to balance being a maker of things, a wife and a mother,” she said. “It’s been a challenge learning how to navigate establishing a home studio space and specific times when to work, and now expecting child number two, I know there will be more change to come. It’s something I never want to give up or let go of.”

Stephanie and Jake have a piece of art in their home that reads, “Live a quiet life and work with your hands.” The words sum up the Bible verse I Thessalonians 4:11, and the message is meaningful to both of them. It’s a regular reminder of who they strive to be. “We are fulfilled with making things with our hands and making things with a story for someone else to have,” she said.

Passing the same message and way of life along to their children is also important to Stephanie.

“I want my children to be makers and creatives, so I always want to have opportunities for self expression and to make art in our home and for them to see Mom and Dad making things,” she said. “I want them to know how to make things, and I want to teach them how to make things. It’s what we do as a family.”

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As an introvert, Stephanie finds making things and being at home therapeutic.

She also shared that she feels most inspired when she gets to connect with nature. For Stephanie, a perfect day would include yoga in the morning, a walk along a creek and a relaxing outing to vintage shops. Afterward, she would have time and space to draw, write and explore creative ideas.

Then she would get excited to make those ideas a reality.

Creating days like these is sometimes hard when you’re a busy mom, but that makes them more special. Stephanie said the season of life she’s in has always influenced her work. At the same time, she said, “We love the arts community and growth of opportunity in Ruston. It’s pushed us to grow.” Despite all the change, she said, “I feel like all of my passions are coming together.” Stephanie is an earthy, wRenaissance woman with many overlapping talents and interests. One of those interests is doula work.

As someone who has always looked for ways to support and empower women, Stephanie felt an immediate connection to midwifery and doula work when she decided to have a home birth with River. Because she also lost her dad eight days before River was born, she understood the value of a doula’s postpartum support in a special way and has done much of the hands-on work of becoming a certified doula herself. All that remains is a 6-week certification course, which she plans to complete soon.

In keeping with her interest in being a doula, Stephanie also became a certified yoga instructor a year ago and has been teaching prenatal yoga once a week at Blue Sky Yoga in Ruston. She also incorporates Young Living Essential oils into her yoga and doula work. All of these activities inspire Stephanie’s jewelry and make her feel more creative. They’ve helped cultivate kinships with other women and have allowed them to teach and encourage one another.

One particular jewelry design that has grown out of her experiences with yoga and doula work is a beaded “strong mama” necklace with a diamond-shaped pendant made of rose quartz. She said the beads make it similar to a rosary, and the yonic shape makes it symbolic of birth, labor and female power. It’s meant to encourage women, especially first-time moms. “Even throughout pregnancy and postpartum,” she said. “it’s important to express your personal style and wear things that make you feel confident and beautiful.”

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omen she knows are often her customers, but Stephanie is happy to sell locally. As a maker, she had an early goal to see someone she didn’t know wearing something she created, and that’s happened, which also brings her joy. In general, Stephanie designs jewelry for someone like herself, someone who appreciates handmade things. “I like to make things I would wear that reflect my style and personality,” she said, but doing custom work is also fun.

Stephanie recalled a time when one of her customers asked her to make several pieces for his wife. The only stipulation was that the pieces needed to include a specific stone. On another occasion, one of Stephanie’s friends brought her several pieces of quartz crystals that her daughter had dug up in their backyard. After making some special pieces for them from the quartz, Stephanie’s friend let her keep the rest to make jewelry for others— jewelry with a special story and a local connection.

For Stephanie, the whole creative process from design to finish is a rewarding outlet, but she said, “I like when someone actually buys it.

I like people to have something one-of-a-kind with a story.” If a stone came from a particular place, she likes to share that. If a piece has a special significance, she likes to share that,

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too. In fact, she said she feels most alive when she’s wearing her favorite outfit, standing in her booth at the Ruston Makers Fair, sharing a story about something she made. “I just want people to love it every time they wear it,” she said, “for it to be their favorite piece of jewelry.” It’s also fun for her to see women of different ages wearing and enjoying her pieces.

“Positive feedback motivates me to keep making it,” she said.

For any artist, criticism also comes with the territory. Some people will not like what you make, or they may not think you’re a true artist if you don’t make every element by

hand. In the beginning, criticism was hard for Stephanie, but she’s grown in confidence. “I’ve also learned that there is no specific mold or definition for what it means to be an ‘artist,’” she said. “I think if you express your ideas and create something with those ideas, you are an artist.” Stephanie has also learned to be gentle with herself and accept the limits of what she can accomplish when balancing her creative passions with motherhood and family. At the same time, she looks forward to exploring new things and said, “I will never stop making. It’s part of who I am.”

A Comedy About a Man and His Disease Pushing Dead, a Film by Tom E. Brown

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HE NORTH CENTRAL Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) presents Pushing Dead with filmmaker Tom E. Brown as part of the South Arts Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers at Dixie Center for the Arts, Ruston, La, on Thursday, September 21, 2017. Following a screening of the film, the filmmaker will be in attendance to participate in a discussion with the audience about the film and his work. Local filmmaker Matthew Ramsaur will serve as Moderator. Tickets are $5 general admission, $3 students, and NCLAC members attend free. Tickets are available at the door or online at nclac.org.

Pushing Dead follows Dan, a struggling writer who has been HIV-positive for over 20 years. After depositing a $100 birthday check, he is dropped from his insurance plan for earning too much. In this new era of “sortof” universal healthcare, can he take on a

helpless bureaucracy or come up with $3,000 each month to buy his meds on his own?

“I wanted to make a different kind of AIDS movie,” explained Brown, who was diagnosed with HIV in 1985. “A comedy in which nobody dies. I’ve been positive for most of my life, so many people assume this story is about me. Although it’s not autobiographical, I do have the inside scoop, and it’s hard to resist tossing in some of those personal HIV experiences.”

Brown attended the Sundance Institute’s Screenwriters and Directors Labs to workshop Pushing Dead, which he describes as a love story between a man and his disease. He was the recipient of a Rockefeller Foundation Fellowship for this pioneering project and was named one of the “25 New Faces of Indie Film” by Filmmaker Magazine.

NCLAC thanks Hampton Inn of Ruston and Louisiana Tech’s College of Liberal Arts

for their sponsorship of the Southern Circuit series, as well as film sponsor Sundown Tavern.

The Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers is a program of South Arts. Southern Circuit screenings are funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. South Arts, founded in 1975, is a nonprofit regional arts organization building on the South’s unique heritage and enhancing the public value of the arts. Their work responds to the arts environment and cultural trends with a regional perspective, through an annual portfolio of activities designed to address the role of the arts in impacting the issues important to our region, and linking the South with the nation and the world through the arts.

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LA Tech’s The Happening On Thursday, August 17, it was a sea of red and blue at the Monroe Civic Center as Louisiana Tech University celebrated The Happening. Presented

by Argent Financial Group, this annual event is the university’s way of kicking off the upcoming school year and football season. Guests were greeted by Tech cheerleaders as they entered the event and enjoyed food from Catfish Charlie’s and music from The Fabulous Equinox Quintet. Head Football Coach Skip Holtz was one of the featured speakers. Holtz, who is entering his fifth season in Ruston, was named the Conference USA Coach of the Year last season after guiding the Bulldogs to the West Division title, an appearance in the C-USA title game and a win over Navy in the Lockheed Armed Forces Bowl.

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On the BayouScene 1 Brooks Hull and Bill Bradley 2 Darren Collie and David Collie 3M aggie Humphries and Cynthia Barker 4K athleen Richard and Stacy Gilbert 5 Congressman Ralph Abraham and Dianne Abraham 6 Dr. Richard Hood and Skip Holtz 7 Donna Cathey, Jo and Charles McDonald 8 Gary Kennedy, Penny Humphries and Paula Napper 9 Berkley Calapp, Anna Blake and Morgan Turkory 10 N eil Riser, Champ, Rachel Patterson, Gregory Hudgins and Gary Patterson 11 B riley Cotton, Julie Montgomery, Valerie Costanza and Sarah Jeffords 12 F rank Bennett, Tim and Laurie Colvin and Deborah and Todd Colvin 13 Mayor Ronnie Walker and Sam Ponder 14 Sandy and Lomax Napper 15 D r. Richard Hood, Dr. Les Guice and Senator Francis Thompson 16 Marshall Napper and Mike Thompson 17 Alex Chamblee and Abbi Scallan 18 Ed Buckley and Phil Gordon 19 Judge Sharon Marchman and Tommy McClelland 20 Emerald Doria, Tyson Baldwin and Kim Green 21 Karl Puljak and Lance Hall 22 Victoria Hardy and Libbi Lange 23 S am Ponder, Victoria Lindsey, Ashley and Marc Able and Clay Hipp 24 Kevin Beasley, Wes and Lindsay Cavin 25 Brooke Stoehr, John Allen and Scott Stoehr

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Ouachita Green Luncheon Ouachita Green awards luncheon was held on June 29 at CenturyLink’s headquarters in Monroe. Guest speakers included Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and Susan Russell of Keep Louisiana Beautiful. Awards were given to community members who have made a positive impact on keeping Louisiana and the environment clean and beautiful. Ouachita Green is something much more than just an idea. It is a personal pledge to preserve natural beauty, protect the environment, prevent blight, improve public lands and make the community a better place in which to live.

In conjunction with Keep Louisiana Beautiful (KLB) and Keep America Beautiful (KAB), Ouachita Green’s unified efforts will help positively shape the future for generations to come.

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Amy Barefoot and Will Barefoot David Sorrell and Joe Holyfield Linda Holyfield and Stuart Hodnett D iane Wagley, Cathy Cheek, Vicki Robinson and Fran Beach 5C hris Pittard, Carey Davis, Greg Kahmann, Malcolm Maddox, Jennifer Estep, Kay Clark and Susie Dartlon 6 Donald Johnson and Sarita Daniel 7 Mary Biggs and Malcolm Maddox 8 Dr. Sharilynn Loche and Chuncy Mason 9 Jennifer Estep, Kay Clark and Susie Dartlon 10 P eyton and Courtney Hornsby, Tim McIlveene 11 J osh McNemar, Emily Russell, Susan Russell, Bryce Brenzine and Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser 12 Andrew Price and Arizona Higuera 13 Leslie Plauche and Clair Roane 14 Mayor Vern Breland and Sgt. Mark Nappier 15 Thomas Risser and Josh Harris 16 Katie May and Carrick Inabnett 17 Luke, Lane and Paige Hodnett

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LOCAL STYLE Northeast Louisiana is teeming with talented people.

BayouLife Magazine sat down with these creative creatures to find out what influenced them to start their burgeoning t-shirt companies. Photography by Martin G Meyers.

ARTHUR NOLAN ARTHUR NOLAN was a dream of Mamie Nelson’s for several years before she stepped out on faith and followed the steps to making this apparel line a reality in 2015. The idea to start a line of shirts came from her time studying Scripture. God’s word provides so much strength and encouragement to Mamie that she has to share that hope and purpose with others. She would read and all of sudden think, “That would be a great message on a t-shirt!” Fortunately her good friend Cindy Lofton, owner of First Impression Graphics, is one of the best graphic artists. She confided in Cindy her thoughts and fears. Cindy encouraged Mamie to step out on faith and trust God’s lead. Mamie read her devotional that day, Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Thankfully, her husband Tim came on board and helped Mamie launch Arthur Nolan.

Mamie’s vision for Arthur Nolan has always been to make God and His unrelenting love and abounding grace known to others by displaying messages of encouragement and hope on high quality garments that are extremely soft and comfortable. Each message has been pored over in Scripture. Each font style has been meticulously selected or drawn. She visually examines each design on every tee, tank and pullover prior to printing. Through this journey of Arthur Nolan, Mamie has grown in discernment: her ability to think Biblically in all areas of her life including each design. One of her newest designs: OWN YOUR LIFE means to take responsibility for your decisions, words, actions, consequences, and attitudes and also to be intentional throughout your day. Bring order to your chaos.

The overall theme of Arthur Nolan is to “Love one another as I have loved you,” John 13:34. That verse is printed on every Arthur Nolan garment tag and tote bag. Love is more than a feeling. Love is an attitude revealed through action. Arthur Nolan is taking action by giving a portion of sales to Grace Place Ministries, Inc. Grace Place Ministries physically and spiritually feeds the hungry in our community. Personally, Mamie has partnered with Grace Place for over 15 years and totally believes in the goodness of Rhonda Grace’s heart for the broken.

Arthur Nolan’s designs are in several boutiques throughout the state as well as on the website arthurnolan.com. Arthur Nolan’s complete collection (16+ designs) is located inside First Impression Graphics, 898 Thomas Rd, West Monroe, past Duck Commander on the right. You can shop there Monday – Friday from 10 to 5. Arthur Nolan has Facebook and Instagram pages thanks to marketing guru and local resident Cheyenne Little. Arthur Nolan is a beautiful vision that the Lord placed in her heart and encouraged her to share.

Each design comes from specific moments in Mamie’s life.

The name “Arthur Nolan” was a no-brainer. They are the middle names of Mamie’s two sons, John Arthur and Spencer Nolan, the most precious gifts she ever received. The day her oldest son was born, God revealed Mamie’s purpose: to be a strong Christian mother who would teach her children to be compassionate and live authentic lives for His glory. While Mamie admits that is a daily challenge, she assures us, “Gratefully, I live in a sea of grace.”

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B AYO U L I G H T CHRIS HENDRIX remembers the day Bayou Light started. He was on a boat, fishing with his fiancée, Melissa. The idea of starting a business had been on his mind for a while, but there, on the water, the concept took shape.“The sun happened to be shining a certain way through the trees,” he recalls. “It was something about the sun, the trees, the moss and the water that got me thinking about the name Bayou Light.”

They both agreed then and there that it was the perfect name for an apparel line, and he contacted a friend in Baton Rouge about developing a logo and beginning branding efforts. Chris wasn’t a graphic designer, but he knew what he was looking for – a lone cypress, rising from the water.

Meanwhile, Chris and Melissa got started on creating the lines they wanted to introduce. Just a few months into their endeavor, Bayou Light is gaining momentum as one of the new “it” brands in the region. The clothing and accessories line produces highquality tee-shirts, fishing shirts and women’s accessories. Each creation conjures images of the bayous that make Louisiana.“If you were raised in Louisiana, lived near the water – a swamp, or river anywhere in the Bayou State – then you understand Bayou Light,” he says. “Close your eyes and picture this. It can happen anywhere, any time, and without warning.”

Like the clothing his company creates, Chris paints an image of tranquil bayous, Spanish moss, and the warm glow of sun bathing the water. He calls it “God’s masterpiece, splashed vividly across the canvas in front of you.”

Bayou Light is a company born of the bayous, bred in Louisiana and spreading out to all points beyond, and for Chris, he’s never been more enthusiastic. It makes sense that an outdoor apparel and accessories line would be his passion. After all, it’s in his blood.

Chris grew up in the sporting goods business. His father is the “H” in D&H Sports, a company his grandfather started with his dad more than 40 years ago. He credits this upbringing with the rapid growth of Bayou Light.“I’ve been around the sporting goods/sports apparel business all my life,” Chris says. “It’s just a business I know and have been around forever. But I’ve always felt the pull to do something else, something related to our business, but something I attach my own name to.”

That’s Bayou Light, and it’s clear that Chris is proud of his creation. Not only do his eyes flash when he talks about where the company is and the ideas that drive the creations they sell, but he also has big plans for the future, as well. But for now, he’s taking things slowly. Everyone involved still has a “day job” and Bayou Light is what they’re pursuing around busy, professional schedules.

He points out it’s not just a side job, though. Bayou Light has been placed in three area retail stores, with lines rolling out throughout August and September. Other stores have also expressed interest.The ultimate goal is for Bayou Light to become a predominately online retail outlet – a goal Matt has been helping with. Their site features an online store where customers can order the latest designs.

Having watched his parents, Chris knows a thing or two about growing a business. He says they’re his biggest influence. “My dad has taught me everything – how to play sports and be successful as a young person, then how to take responsibility as an adult, how to run a business and become a businessman, but most importantly he’s taught me how to be a good dad,” Chris says. “My mom, like my dad, is a huge influence in my life in that she sets an example that everyone should live by.”

As the endeavor grows, Chris relies on his family and his fiancée. It’s clear that Bayou Light is going to be a family affair.

“Melissa is my rock. She’s my inspiration and, most importantly, she believes in me, in what we’re doing, and supports me in every way,” he says.

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LOCAL STYLE

BELIEVE TEES FOR BRITTANY STREETMAN, it was in the midst of personal tribulation that God showed her an outlet. It was through faith that she and her family pulled through the struggle, and after finally coming out the other side; she is able to bless others. Two years ago in Cincinnati, Ohio, her three-year-old son was awaiting a bone marrow transplant. At that point they had already been away from home with him for a year, first at the children’s hospital in Arkansas, and then in Cincinnati where he finally received a diagnosis, DKC. Believe Tees was inspired by this special little boy named Braylon, “B” for short, and his mom who want to share encouragement through Scriptures.

The 13 months spent in Cincinnati gave Brittany a lot of time to think. The transplant would only be viable if Braylon wasn’t sick. A virus would prevent the transplant. After a treatment plan and prep plans were specifically catered for Braylon, he was able to receive the transplant. During that time, Brittany was playing on an app one day where you can create shirts. She had the idea to put the Scriptures that had inspired her through this process on the shirt. The idea of using the shirts as a fundraiser came to her, and Believe Tees was born. With Brittany’s degree in marketing and her love of design, it just made sense. When considering what to call the company, Brittany looked up and saw a card from a friend that simply said, “Believe.” The response was overwhelming in Cincinnati. Working out of the Ronald McDonald house, packages would arrive every day. They started off with three designs and sold the shirts on Facebook. It provided Brittany a distraction with a purpose during the rough time.

When they returned home, they wanted to keep the business going. Both parents had to stay home with Braylon, as he needed to travel to Arkansas weekly for infusions. Braylon also couldn’t attend daycare with his weakened immune system. They started setting up the shirt displays at craft shows, sometimes every weekend. A website was launched as well. The first shirt stated: “Perhaps this is the moment for which you have been created, Esther 4:14.” It felt fitting for what Brittany, her husband and Braylon were going through. Another popular design early on was Mark 9:23 “All things are possible to him who believes.” Braylon has come so far since his transplant. He took his first steps at 5 ½ years old. As of May, Braylon was still 100% engrafted with the donor’s cells. His immune system is not back at 100 percent yet, but it is definitely improving. He will finally be able to attend school, and he is getting to experience the milestones of a little boy. It is because of his progress that Brittany is a firm believer in what they do, sharing their message of hope with others.

Aside from the shows and the website, Believe Tees can be found in If the Crown Fits and This House, along with Cara’s and HerringStone’s. Mainly what Brittany wants to convey to the public is they are not just a Scripture T-shirt company. There’s a story behind each creation that helped her get through a hard time. Customers have contacted Brittany personally simply saying, “I needed this.” They share their stories and how certain shirts touched them. Touching one person is enough. She believes very much in being open about our struggles to grow as a community and help one another. It’s what we’re called to do. She knows some people are hesitant to share, but she wants everyone to know this is real life, and together we can carry the burden.

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COTTON TOP PRINT SHOP COTTON TOP PRINT SHOP is a family business, comprised of Brittany Drewry, her husband Steven, his mom Cyndy, and Cyndy’s other son Michael Drewry. In business since September of 2015, the Drewrys have been bringing the Ruston vintage vibe to customers, often calling itself Ruston’s gift shop. Cyndy Drewry had a T-shirt business 35 years ago, but after a few deaths in the family, the Drewrys wanted a new operation where they could all be together. People always need T-shirts, but the designs are always changing. Brittany says, “It’s something fresh to do, but also reliable.” The retail floor currently consists of Ruston-themed shirts featuring old maps with the vintage Ruston feel.

Brittany and Steven are both Ruston natives.

And though Cyndy was born in Monroe, she has called Ruston home for many years. With Brittany and Steven both having attended Louisiana Tech University, they have fallen in love with that Ruston sense of community that so many graduates speak about. It’s home for them, a small community that is growing, and a beautiful place to live where businesses seem to thrive.

Cotton Top offers custom screen-printing for big groups and custom vinyl for smaller order shirts.

They feature photography and offer a photography class hosted by Shawn Hood at least twice a year, depending on demand. Steven’s Granny, Deanna Coleman makes handmade jewelry that is also sold in the store. She creates all types of unique jewelry, often from stones or gems she finds. The retail floor T-shirts showcase various fun designs created by the team. The styles feature a blend of sayings and graphics, often relying on humor to convey the messages. For instance, a popular design is the Ski Mount Driskill Tee. Mount Driskill is located in Arcadia, and many residents visit, as it is the highest peak in Louisiana. The graphic features a man skiing this small peak of a mountain, and is meant to be comical. People come into the shop and laugh, saying, “I know where that is, and that’s funny because it is a very small mountain to climb.” The Drewrys enjoy making customers laugh.

Cyndy is the graphic designer along with her son Michael. With only family members working at Cotton Top, Brittany says it is easy. They all know and love each other. Many customers come in with an idea for a shirt in their heads, chat with Cyndy, and soon a design is born. Brittany acts as the manager in the store, supervising everything, while Steven is the printer. The shop is located in downtown Ruston at 118 West Park Avenue. .

The client base is college students and foot traffic downtown for the retail store, while the T-shirt clients consist of mostly schools and organizations.

They also host Print Your Own field trips where clients can come in for en event, such as a birthday, and can set up a design, and the kids can print their own T-shirts. They also allow the public to print their own during art crawls and holiday events. People love hands-on activities, and the parties have been a growing success. The Cotton Top Print Shop can be found on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

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LOCAL STYLE

KEE KEE TEES

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Stroll through the mall or browse the racks at the River Market, and chances are you’ll see more than a few tee-shirts with powerful, positive Christian messages. In addition to inspirational messages that promote faith, the tees have another thing in common.They’re all casual. Simple prints in plain colors on solid shirts may be good for kicking around town on a Tuesday afternoon, but what about a dressier shirt? The market was lacking, and that’s when Kelly Block and Caitlyn Bamburg decided to step up.“Kelly and I wanted tees that were inspirational and promoted our faith,” Caitlyn says.

“We decided to go more for a fashion tee, something you could dress up a little more.”

Kee Kee Tees was born. The girls launched their Christian-based fashion forward tee-shirt brand in spring 2015. Since then, they’ve grown into a tee shirt powerhouse, and their brands are featured in more than 30 stores nationwide.“We have our tees in two stores here, locally,” Caitlyn says. They’re at K-Sera Boutique and If the Crown fits. “Also, we have an online store at www.shopkeekeetees.com” Each tee features a simple graphic and an inspirational, scripture-based message. The design allows them to focus more on the message the girls hope to share with the world around them.

“Our main mission is to spread the Word of God through our fashion line,” she says. “Kelly and I design every single tee from the style and fit to the color and scripture or graphic, and we print everything locally.”

In just two and a half years, Kee Kee Tees has grown far beyond their initial, simple roots.

It’s now an established brand with a loyal following, and new designs are coming out on a regular basis. “We currently carry women, youth, toddler, and baby apparel,” Caitlyn notes, adding Kee Kee is more than just tees. “We also sell women’s hats and jogging pants, short sleeve tees, long sleeves, and sweatshirts.”

At the same time, they’re continually expanding the lines they’re offering, branching into new markets as they emerge. Caitlyn and Kelly feel blessed that their venture has taken flight, and they’ve got big plans for the future, too.

First, though, they’ll continue pursuing doors as they open. They recently partnered with Project 41, a non-profit that helps women escape sex trafficking. Kee Kee Tees designs, manufactures and prints tee-shirts for the organization. That’s not the only relationship they’ve developed, either. “In the last year, we’ve also been blessed with an amazing opportunity to manufacture and print tees and sweatshirts for Mercy Multiplied, a nonprofit organization that helps women break free from life-controlling issues and behaviors, such as addiction, self-harm, depression and eating disorders,” Caitlyn says.

In the coming months, they’re getting geared up for sports season and rolling out new product lines.

Caitlyn and Kelly’s tee-shirt company is on the move, and they’re excited to see where their journey leads them.

MR. P’S TEES IT ALL STARTED when an artist married a hunter…and had a baby. Lissy Sanders Compton has always been an artist and obtained her Bachelors of Fine Arts from Louisiana Tech in 2001. Her husband Brent has worked in construction and design practically his entire life, and just like any good ol’ North Louisiana boy, has always loved the outdoors and hunting. In 2012, the two welcomed their first child, Pearson, affectionately referred to as “P.” They quickly discovered that there were limited options for clothing for boys. They were looking for something that wasn’t girly, was good quality, and simply, was cool. So Lissy got to work and hand painted some designs to put on a onesie and posted on Facebook. They got great feedback and interest in people wanting clothes for their kids. And Mr. P’s Tees was born. “It was important to us that we had quality tees, not the cheap junk that tears up,” said Brent Compton. “And an original design that was never clip art.”

Just like in life, Brent and Lissy are partners in the business. “We literally shook hands in our kitchen and both put up equal amounts of money to start the business,” recalls Lissy. The first design was a zebra and then a Louisiana yard dog. “At the time, I was only thinking of onesies,” says Lissy.

“As Pearson got bigger, naturally, the shirts we designed got bigger. And people always said that they wished we had shirts in adult sizes. So we have expanded over the years.” Their family has also expanded as they welcomed daughter Phoebe, now 4 years old. Most of the shirts are influenced by their love of animals, outdoors and patriotism. They have a big release each spring and fall and then release shirts throughout the year, usually a different design a month.

While all of the shirts have a fun and creative flair, some serve a great purpose. From the beginning, the Comptons knew they wanted to give back to their community. So they created shirts that do just that. Over the years, they have created shirts that raise both awareness and funds for various organizations and groups like Pilots for Patients, PAWS, the Zoological Society and more. Just in the last 5 years, Mr. P’s Tees has raised over $50,000 with their shirts that give back.

Mr. P’s Tees truly is a family business and that is evident if you see them at their booth at the Junior League’s Spring Market or hit up their annual box sale. Brent’s brother Robby is always around to lend a helping hand and Lissy’s mom, Anne, helps out from time to time as well. “We have this core group of girls that have always helped us from the beginning,” said Lissy. “They are our friends so its fun to be able to hang out together.” Since Lissy works full time as a talented art teacher in the Ouachita Parish School System and Brent in the construction business, they have hired someone to help out.

“BreAnne Bearden is a ULM college student who has been with us for over a year,” said Lissy. “She helps us stock stores, fill orders and make deliveries. We would be lost without her.”

Mr. P’s Tees can be found at local retailers throughout North Louisiana including Monroe, West Monroe, Ruston, Winnsboro, Rayville and Bossier, as well as on their website.

They have always had a goal of building their family business to teach their kids to work hard, go for their dreams and give back. And they aren’t just learning about t-shirts. The Comptons have recently ventured into a new endeavor and are trying their hands at pumpkin farming. So look for them at some upcoming farmers markets in the fall where they will have pumpkins of all sizes and colors, gourds, and of course, Mr. P’s Tees.

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article by Kenny Covington

FISHING

With Kenny

Recognizing the Summer/Fall Connection

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fter fishing a tournament once, I was asked by a fellow competitor what month did I believed to be the hardest to catch bass in and without hesitation I answered with “the month of September.” I then followed that up with, “The fish are between their summer haunts and their fall migrations.

They become picky in their feeding habits and they just become down right hard to locate and can be even harder to catch.”

A few years have passed since I made that statement and it still holds true today. The month of September has always been an inbetween month as far as seasonal changes that can be found in our local lakes and rivers. The fish are still there to be caught, you just have to take a little bit different approach to catching them.

The first thing to consider when bass fishing in the late summer/ early fall of September is that the days are getting shorter. The water while still warm, will actually start cooling off a bit. Mother Nature has more of an awareness about this than humans do, so her creatures tend to get a head start on preparing for the cooler months that are to come.

The shorter days mean that bass will start moving. Many fishermen fail to realize the best water quality, even when the water temperatures are in the high 80s and low 90s, can be found in shallower water. This is why many times anglers who fish deeper areas on a lake tend to struggle this time of year, not because ALL of the fish have left deep water, but the more aggressive and easier to catch ones have.

So we have established that a lot of fish leave the deeper summer haunts to move shallow, but what about the ones that stay out deep?

These fish tend to suspend over structure and chase baitfish whenever

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the opportunity presents itself. Suspended fish, in my opinion, are some of the hardest to catch. They aren’t relating to any type of cover or structure, so they tend to roam, searching for opportunities to feed on schools of bait.

It is this type of nomadic activity that makes them difficult to pinpoint or to consistently find the areas holding fish. They can be here one day and gone the next. As the bait goes, so do the bass. The best way to find active fish is to look for them using lures such as topwaters and lipless crankbaits that allow you to cover a lot of water.

Also remember, just because bass are suspended in deeper water does not mean you can’t catch them shallow in the water column.

Speaking of shallow. We said earlier that a lot of late summer/ early fall bass move to shallower water due to the better oxygen quality. One of my theories why bass move to the shallows this time of year is that most of the food supply they feed on has moved up as well.

Schools of shad will begin migration to the creeks, slowly working toward the back. Bream, while consistently being found shallow, seem to be even more plentiful. The aquatic vegetation is thicker and the food chain seems to have fewer kinks in it.

This particular time of year is when I really pay close attention to my lure sizes and color schemes. I like smaller lures and I almost always use a shad pattern regardless of where I am fishing. The simpler I can keep things the more successful I tend to be on the water.

When it comes to effectively covering shallow water, here is what I find to be the most productive lures and where I like to use them.

Small crankbaits like a Norman Tiny N or a 1.0 KVD Strike King Squarebill are perfect for this time of year. The shad being targeted are usually very small and these smaller crankbaits are killer for both numbers and for bigger bass. Make sure you have the correct rod/reel set up for throwing these lures, but don’t be afraid to use them on your standard bass tackle.

One of my favorite things to throw this time of year are 1/8 ounce spinnerbaits and buzzbaits. I have maintained for years that the best schooling bait ever made was a single willow leaf 1/8 spinnerbait. I like to use the buzzbait for topwater situations because the smaller buzzer will come through the heavily matted grass much easier and seems to catch bigger bass.

A ¼ ounce Rat L Trap or other smaller lipless crankbait should be a standard on any fishing trip for the month of September. Don’t get too hung up on colors as chrome/blue is really all you need. The Trap is probably the ultimate search bait for bass. You can burn it over shallow grass, cast it beyond targets such as docks and trees, or you can even throw it in the middle of schooling fish. It is a fish catcher.

Another technique often overlooked is a Carolina rig. The key to this technique, like everything else, is to think small. Shorter leaders, two feet or less, seem to work better for me and I tend to use smaller soft plastics such as finesse worms, baby brush hogs and Zoom Centipedes. If I had to pick only one lure to throw it would be a cotton candy finesse worm with the tail dipped in chartreuse.

Well it looks as if we have run out of space again for this month!

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different lures and retrieves because you never know when the next cast will unlock the secret to that day’s success. As summer begins to wind down and we head into fall, please be careful on the water. Catch one for me and I will see you next month!

CREATING A FALL BUCKET LIST Continued From Page 72 a party would be a pumpkin carving extravaganza. I did this when my son was a little boy and even bought dry ice to put in the pumpkins.

Yes, I was the coolest mom on the block, even though the ice burns were a little painful for a few days, so wear gloves!

There are so many cool pumpkin carving ideas on Pinterest…so many fun ideas on how to carve your work of art. Kids love this, and maybe you could co-mingle this activity with family movie night and then everyone could go out to the patio and watch the sunset. No, I’m just kidding, my kids would absolutely ask the Court to place them with another family if I suggested we sit on the patio and watch the sunset, like the Norman Rockwell family of West Monroe. But I bet some people do this, I bet.

Another fun night would be to visit a State Fair. I know we have the Ark-La-Miss fair that comes through town, and I have loved going since I was a little girl, but a State Fair, now that’s a horse of a different color. I mean, a fried Twinkie or a perhaps a fried

Snicker’s bar? Who’s in? I can feel my arteries clogging as I type these words, but one yearly indulgence surely won’t kill you. Surely?

And if that doesn’t kill you, then visiting a local Haunted House surely wouldn’t either.

Now, I’m not suggesting you take your first grader to a Haunted House, so stop with those complaints to my editor right now, but for parents with older middle school or high school kids, this might be fun to get several families and go one night. Surely? Anybody?

And finally, how about hosting a tailgate for your favorite local sports team? We all have favorite teams we like to support and a tailgate, replete with tents and lawn chairs and a grill and some really good wings, sounds like some fun memories to me.

Of course, this fall bucket list can also include a few simpler things like making chili one night and eating on the patio; making sugar cookies (one of my favorite and I’m sure my readers know this because I always recommend it); planning a hayride, making caramel or candy apples; having a fall family photo shoot; and knitting scarves.

Wait, I take that last one back, as it probably rivals only watching the sunset, right? It just sounded very Norman Rockwell, too. It doesn’t really matter what makes up your bucket list, it just matters that you have one, and that you set aside some time to be together during this upcoming holiday season.

Most people would agree that there is nothing more important than spending time with our family and friends, and even though some of these ideas may require a little planning and a little preparation, kids especially, never forget the time they made a cool pirate head pumpkin that had smoke coming through his eyes and mouth.

Memories last, we always have them, and the joy and enjoyment they give our family and friends make any trouble we have to go to very worthwhile. Happy fall, readers…I hope this will be a season filled with your family and friends, some great food, maybe some football and a season of memories.

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MISS LOUISIANA LARYSSA BONACQUISTI

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Laryssa Bonacquisti’s life has been a whirlwind of activity since she was selected to represent the Bayou State as

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n June 24, 2017, Bonacquisti took center stage at the Jack Howard Theater in Monroe as she was crowned by her predecessor, Justine Ker, becoming the fifty-third young woman to hold this coveted title. “I was just so excited and honored,” recalls Bonacquisti.

“It is really impossible to describe the feelings you have in that moment.” The initial excitement had barely waned when her duties as the new Miss Louisiana began in earnest, with meetings, speaking engagements and official appearances at local events.

Months later, Bonacquisti’s schedule remains fast-paced and full, with little time for leisure. She insists that she does not mind the flurry of activity that comes with her new role. “It is such an honor to be chosen,” Bonacquisti says, noting that all of the contestants were worthy of the title. “All of those girls are so beautiful and talented and intelligent. Any one of them could have won. It was so much fun getting to know them and spend that time with them,” says Bonacquisti, referring to 31 of her peers who also participated in the Miss Louisiana pageant.

Bonacquisti grew up in Rockwall, Texas, a small town east of Dallas. Following high school, she chose to attend Louisiana State University, making Louisiana her home for the foreseeable future.

She is studying mass communication at LSU, with an emphasis on broadcast journalism, and plans to eventually attend law school. For now, her academic career is on hold as spends the next two semesters representing her adopted home state as the reigning Miss Louisiana.

In the weeks since her coronation, Bonacquisti has been working diligently to prepare for the Miss America pageant. The beginning of September will be spent in Atlantic City, New Jersey, with contenders from each of the other U.S. states and territories. Leading up to the final night of the Miss America pageant, contestants participate together in Miss America Organization sponsored events, including the famous parade around the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Preliminary competitions in swimsuit and talent, as well as interviews, will take place over the course of three days. Bonacquisti expects her days in Atlantic City to be grueling but exciting, culminating in the final production and live competition which airs September 10th on ABC Television Network.

It is a dream she has had for as long as she can remember, Bonacquisti says. She began participating in pageants at the age of six.

Throughout much of her childhood, she competed in age-appropriate productions focused mainly on talent. “The pageants I did when I was young were all introductory to the Miss America Organization. No big hair and make-up. No ‘Toddlers and Tiaras,’” Bonacquisti quips. She admits that she tunes in occasionally to the reality show of that name just for laughs, but insists that her experience was nothing like what is depicted on the show.

Bonacquisti says her mother, Lynette, was instrumental in introducing her to the Miss America Organization. Lynette Bonacquisti competed in the Miss America pageant in 1990 as Miss New Jersey.

MISS LOUISIANA. Although a native of Texas, Lynette Bonacquisti lived in New Jersey while working as an airline stewardess, and won the state pageant there. During her reign as Miss New Jersey, she met Laryssa’s father, Gary Bonacquisti, whom she later married. “I look up to her as a role model in so many ways,” Bonacquisti says of her mother.

Although pageant competition may be “in her blood,” Bonaquisti recalls that her mother encouraged, but never pushed, pageant participation. During high school, the younger Bonacquisti took occasional breaks from the pageant circuit, trying sports and other interests for a while, but eventually she went back to doing pageants.

“Being away from it made me realize I really enjoy it,” she recalls. Her preliminary pageant experience during high school was through the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen program. Those pageants, affiliated with the Miss America Organization, included talent competitions as well as extensive interviews with judges, which served to prepare her for eventual participation in the Miss Louisiana pageant.

Delighting audiences with her ventriloquist act is a skill Bonacquisti has been honing for many years. She was in elementary school when she first became interested in ventriloquism. A family friend who was a ventriloquist taught Bonacquisti this rather unique performance art.

She found she had a natural penchant for it and picked it up quickly.

As a ventriloquist, Bonaquisti is able to speak, and even sing, without moving her lips, so that her voice appears to be coming from the puppets she uses as props. It is an act that takes many hours of practice and considerable skill. Over the years, she has accumulated a number of puppets and developed and refined their individual characters and personalities for her stage performances. For the recent Miss Louisiana competition, she showcased her talent using two of her colorful puppets, Lucky and Lucy, in a lively act that includes singing and yodeling. She will perform the act, entitled “I Want to Be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart,” in the upcoming Miss America talent competition.

In the state competition in June, Bonacquisti was a preliminary winner in both the talent and swimsuit categories. A stellar performance on the night of the pageant’s finale secured her the overall win and crowning as the current Miss Louisiana. It is a role, and a job, that she takes seriously and considers the opportunity of a lifetime.

A R T I C L E B Y K AY S T OT H A R T R E C T O R PHOTOS BY MARTIN G MEYERS A N D ST E V E N PA LOWS K Y

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7 :00 Daily Workout at Anytime Fi tness

11:00 Shopping for Clothes and Shoes for Appearances

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ince winning the Miss Louisiana title, Bonacquisti has been living in Monroe on the ULM campu. With an apartment and a meal plan donated by the University, she enjoys the perks of being a student there, but without the classroom experience. Instead, she spends her days working full time as Miss Louisiana. As part of this job, Bonacquisti’s schedule is often dominated by official appearances at organizational meetings, fundraisers and events. “Every single day is planned out for me,” Bonacquisti says.

“That took some getting used to at first, but I have grown to love it.”

In between fulfilling these obligations, she follows a strict regimen of exercise, rehearsals and interview practice.

“As strange as it may sound, preparation for Miss America is actually my favorite part,” says Bonacquisti. The preparation process is rigorous but worth it, she says. Exercising and a healthy diet plan are essential to ensure she looks her best for the upcoming Miss America pageant. A healthy lifestyle is something that Bonacquisti intends to embrace long after her pageant career is done. “Finding that perfect mix of what you eat and how much you exercise is difficult, but once you get there it is wonderful because you finally feel that confidence in yourself,” Bonacquisti says. “The whole process is a growth process.” As Miss Louisiana, Bonacquisti serves as a health and wellness spokesperson for Vantage Health Plan, educating others about the importance of a healthy diet and regular exercise.

In addition to regular workouts and sessions with a fitness coach, Bonacquisti’s preparation schedule includes hours of interview practice with officials and volunteers connected with the Miss Louisiana organization. Rehearsing her talent presentation is also something she has had to find time for each day so she can excel in Atlantic City.

Practicing her ventriloquism act is strenuous, but it is something Bonacquisti loves doing. When she is not rehearsing with Lucky

4:00 Interview Prep with Miss LA Volunteer Brad Bourgeois

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1: 00 Practic

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and Lucy, perfecting their routine for performance in front of a national television audience at the Miss America pageant, she is often performing for smaller audiences with her other puppets. When speaking to children at schools and hospitals, she brings along “Waddles,” one of her oldest puppet characters. A plush yellow duck with a broad grin and a cute sailor costume, Waddles is a favorite of children as well as adults.

“I have been able to use ventriloquism in so many different ways,” Bonacquisti says. Raising money for Children’s Miracle Network, the charity which is supported by the Miss America Organization, is one example. Each year, state title holders and participants in the Miss America pageant contribute hundreds of hours of community service.

Since 2007, the Miss America Organization has raised over $15 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals nationwide.

Bonacquisti describes a recent afternoon spent raising funds for CMNH. “I took my duck, Waddles, and we sat at an Ace hardware store with our donation buckets, and just talked to people and helped raise money,” she says. She finds that people typically respond positively to her puppets. She says that ventriloquism can open doors and be a great avenue for bringing attention to a cause

like CMNH. With over 170 member hospitals throughout the U.S. and Canada, Children’s Miracle Network is dedicated to saving and improving the lives of children.

In addition to raising funds and awareness for the Children’s Miracle Network, Bonacquisti has developed her own personal platform which she promotes as Miss Louisiana. Entitled “Team Charlotte: Fighting Pancreatic Cancer,” her individual fundraising platform honors her maternal grandmother who died of pancreatic cancer.

Bonacquisti’s mother informed her of her grandmother’s diagnosis just two days after she completed the 2016 Miss Louisiana pageant. “My grandmother fought very hard.

It was difficult to watch a woman who was always so strong fighting something that we couldn’t even see.” Her grandmother passed away less than a year later, in March of 2017.

“When my grandmother was first diagnosed, I didn’t know anything about pancreatic cancer,” says Bonacquisti. What she learned was disheartening. The more she learned about pancreatic cancer, the more she realized just how little information the general public knows about this terrible disease. “It is fast acting and it is deadly,” Bonacquisti explains. “Only eight percent of patients survive more than five years after diagnosis.

That prognosis has not changed in the last

four years. What is even scarier is that there are little to no symptoms until it is usually too late.” For example, her grandmother’s only symptom was back pain, making early detection difficult. “My hope is that we find a diagnostic technique soon, so that patients are diagnosed earlier,” Bonacquisti says. Her pageant platform is designed to help make that happen.

Bonacquisti intends to spend a great part of her year as Miss Louisiana raising awareness and funds about this very serious life-threatening illness. Her goal is to talk to as many groups and individuals as she can about the dangers of pancreatic cancer and the importance of early detection. She will also be speaking out on behalf of the worthy cause that is the Children’s Miracle Network, helping to raise funds for pediatric hospitals.

Bonacquisti admits that at times her schedule as Miss Louisiana is exhausting.

However, she does not think of complaining, for it is a job she has long wanted. “It is hard work, but it is so much fun. I’ve never been so happy to be so tired,” Bonacquisti says.

“Sleep can come in a year.” Until then, she is enjoying every minute of her reign as Miss Louisiana.

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A Collection of Show Posters from the Past The Dixie Center for the Arts

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HE NORTH CENTRAL Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) is pleased to announce an exhibit of Show Posters from Ruston Community Theatre, Dixie Center for the Arts, and North Central Louisiana Arts Council at the Dixie Center for the Arts. The Dixie Center for the Arts, located at 212 N. Vienna in Ruston, has been a part of Rustonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic downtown since 1928 and provides the city a full season of entertainment and the arts.

This colorful exhibit highlights some of the plays, performances, and films from 1984 to the past 2016-2017-performance season.

The Ruston Community Theatre showcases a poster from a production in 1984, Arsenic and Old Lace, which will have a revival production October 5th-8th of this year. Some of the other posters from RCT on display include The Odd Couple, The Miracle Worker and The Sound of Music.

Dixie Center for the Arts showcases posters of musical performances such as A Sinatra Tribute with the Rod Allen Payne Trio from 2016 featuring Lawrence Gibbs, Adam Jones and Rod Allen Payne (Rod Allen Payne Trio with Lawrence Gibbs and Lisa Spann will be returning to the Dixie Center September 14th 2017!), and Piano Virtuosos with Stephanie Trick and Paolo Alderighi from 2016 (Stephan, Paolo, and friends will be returning to the Dixie Center on March 1st 2018!).

The North Central Louisiana Arts Council is showcasing its poster of the Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers from the 2016-2017 Season. The Southern Circuit Tour will be back this fall with six new films for the 2017-18 season.

Posters from this collection are not for sale. The exhibit of posters will be on display in the Dixie Center Lobby until

October 10th. Stop by the Dixie Center for the Arts located at 212 N. Vienna St., in Ruston to view the posters and purchase tickets for upcoming performances.

For more information about NCLAC visit www.nclac.org.

NCLAC is supported by its Corporate members: First National Bank, Origin Bank, Bank of Ruston, Driggers Outdoor and The Peach 99.3, as well as by individual members and a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council, and administered by Shreveport Regional Arts Council. Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts.

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THE R E V I VA L

Joe and Rene Cascio have revived the family business with Cascio’s Chateau, a venture which pays homage to the family restaurants that preceded it. article by MARY NAPOLI and photography by MARTIN G MEYERS

THE CASCIO FAMILY has spent decades providing locals with incredible food in an amazing atmosphere.

Chances are you have pulled up a chair at one of the family’s successful restaurants to celebrate a special occasion, go on a first date, or enjoy breaking bread with those dear to you. Inspiring memorable moments and creating traditions for their guests has become a Cascio family tradition.

Joe and René Cascio have revived the family business with Cascio’s Chateau, located on historic Louisville Avenue. Their newest venture pays homage to the dearly loved family restaurants that preceded it---the original Chateau, owned by Victor Cascio, father to Joe and a beloved Monroe icon, and Cascio’s Tavern, which locals have sorely missed since its doors closed a few years past.

Joe Cascio was born into the restaurant business, as was his father before him. The family business began in the 1940’s when matriarch Josephine Cascio served her traditional Italian fare at the Spaghetti Garden near DeSiard’s Five Points. Her children followed suit as adults and found success with their own ventures, namely the Italian Village, the spectacular Paragon Club, and the Chateau. Joe learned every aspect of the business from his father, Victor, and Uncle Tony, but found his partner in business and life with his charming and beautiful wife, Rene. Together, they have passed their knowledge on to their three sons, Joe David, Carter and Ben.

Cascio’s Chateau seems to encompass all the magic of the original Chateau and Tavern, but Joe and Rene have somehow managed to exceed the already high expectations with this dining experience. Located in the space that many locals will remember as the Brandy House, this dining destination is stunningly chic and undeniably elegant. Rene has gone to great lengths to design the richly colored space to provide a comfortable atmosphere among the extensive Tiffany glass lighting and handsome woodwork.

“Eddie and Joseph Hakim provided us with such a beautiful palate in this location. We had such a lovely, interesting space to work with, and we knew it would be a special place,” explains René.

Although the location is new, the menu features many dishes that have stood the test of time and carried over from the original Chateau and Cascio’s Tavern. Guests will recognize the Artichoke DeSiard, made with fried artichoke hearts topped with fresh white lump crab and hollandaise sauce, the classic “Josephine” Italian salad, the Cascio’s wedge salad, and the ever-popular Chateau Crawfish Enchiladas. The longevity of Cascio’s success in multiple restaurants is its well balanced menu, which includes ample choices of tempting appetizers, salads, pasta dishes, grilled steaks and pork, burgers, nightly specials and delicious desserts.

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Inspiring memorable moments and creating traditions for their guests has become a Cascio family tradition.

CHEF MATT FISHER leads the kitchen in offering traditional dishes, as well as creating new and exciting menu items. Fisher, who has roots in Louisiana and Florida, favors imaginative, savory dishes and has a particular passion for fresh seafood. His culinary talents shine through in his inventive additions to a menu already stacked with tried and true favorites.

Lunch at Cascio’s Chateau offers guests beautiful salads, satisfying sandwiches and po-boys, and smaller versions of dinner favorites, such as house-made lasagna and chicken parmigiana served over angel hair. However, there are several scrumptious lunch items that are only available for the mid-day meal. One of the most popular dishes is Cascio’s southern fried chicken, made from a decades-old recipe that very few hands have mastered. Served with a thick slice of buttery cornbread and flavorful collard greens, this dish is one to remember. New to the restaurant’s roster is the summer chicken salad, a dish that Rene Cascio was passionate about perfecting. Tender shredded chicken is combined with apricots and cranberries and served with fresh seasonal fruit. Marbled rye toast points accompany the salad and balance the sweetness of the fruit. This delightful chicken salad has become so popular that it is offered in containers for guests to purchase.

Cascio’s Chateau offers a wide variety of items to please almost any palate, but the fresh seafood and steaks steal the spotlight.

Joe Cascio understands the importance of a quality cut of beef and takes pride in offering prime grades to customers. Cascio’s serves beautiful barrel-cuts of filet mignon, as well as a 12-ounce prime grade ribeye. This special ribeye is not to be confused with a prime rib. This beef has been raised on a special diet that produces an incredible grade of marbling that any steak lover 146 SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

CASCIO’S CHATEAU SEEMS TO ENCOMPASS ALL THE MAGIC OF THE ORIGINAL CHATEAU AND TAVERN, BUT JOE AND RENE HAVE SOMEHOW EXCEEDED THE ALREADY HIGH EXPECTATIONS WITH THIS DINING EXPERIENCE. would be impressed with. The fine grained beef features a smooth texture and deep flavor that is instantly recognizable.

“The natural marbling of the prime grade ribeye produces a buttery texture that practically melts in your mouth. As far as I know, we are the only restaurant in town that offers a prime ribeye,” says Joe.

All steak are available with an array of toppings including Bearnaise sauce, fresh lump white crab meat, gourmet bleu cheese, or the “Imperial” topping of Louisiana Gulf shrimp and fresh lump crab meat. Despite these tempting toppers, Chef Fisher prefers a more traditional approach.

“When it comes to steaks, I’m a purist. An excellent cut of beef is at its best when it is seasoned and grilled. Compound butter also brings out the flavor,” he explains.

Cascio and Fisher are clearly passionate about consistently offering the highest quality food available to their customers.

The restaurant serves only fresh gulf fish--never frozen. The vast majority of available restaurants offer fish from across the globe that has been processed and frozen. It is easier, has an infinitely longer shelf life and is far more cost effective than ordering fresh

filets. The Cascio family, however, understands there are no shortcuts to quality. The restaurant receives fresh fish multiple times a week, and the types vary depending on what is most fresh.

“Trout and snapper are very popular (with guests), but we adapt the menu to create dishes around the freshest possible options,” says Chef Fisher.

Cascio’s famous “Snapper Tony” is a menu staple that remains a favorite from the days of the original Chateau. The often-requested dish is served fried or pan seared and topped with fresh lump crab meat and butter sauce. In addition to the snapper, Cascio’s offers other seafood dishes that have remained popular with guests throughout the years. The Trout Amandine, which is also prepared with fresh grouper, features a rich Creole Meuniere sauce and toasted almonds.

The Blackened Redfish with Tony Sauce includes crab meat, red bell peppers and green onions combined in a rich, butterbased sauce. Although the menu changes often, there is never a shortage of tempting seafood dishes, like the Mediterranean Amberjack, which is served over sauteed spinach and topped with artichoke hearts, red peppers, olives, feta and lemon zest.

“We usually feature three different types of fresh fish a week, and if we get something unusual for our menu, I get to do something really creative,” explains Chef Fisher. “Recently, I was able to offer a ceviche dish. I also made a swordfish steak with a sriracha sauce and a cucumber raita,” which was no doubt enjoyed by guests willing to eat a little more adventurously.

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ans of the jumbo fried shrimp from the original Chateau will be pleased to know that this dish has also crossed over. These shrimp are butterflied and battered in a distinctive cornmeal mixture and fried golden brown.

Another seafood favorite from the original Chateau was the Fettuccine a la Michael Mahaffey, which was named after the son of a friend of the Cascios. At the time, the young man had a particular idea of the pasta he wanted to order, but it simply wasn’t on the menu.

Always up for a challenge, the kitchen created the dish with the particular elements that Mahaffey was craving--fettuccine alfredo tossed with sauteed crab meat, shrimp scampi and garlic and herbs.

One of the many things that Joe Cascio learned from his father was the importance of service and providing a pleasurable dining experience for each individual seated at their tables. Joe wants every guest to feel at home and comfortable enough to ask for their order to meet their desires.

“Nothing on our menu is pre-made. We make each individual order as it comes in so that we are able to create each order the way that customer wants it,” explains Joe with sincerity. “If someone wants their dish with something that it’s not usually made with, we want them to feel comfortable to ask for it. We can adjust almost anything. We want it to be special, and we want them to have what they want.”

THIS SORT OF PERSONAL SERVICE is impressive and endearing, but also very rare. The Cascios run their restaurant as though each customer has a special seat in the dining room of their personal home. Requests are welcome and encouraged, but most of the time, the delicious dishes seem perfect as they are.

No menu would be complete without a sweet end to the meal. The restaurant offers beautifully crafted desserts, such as a delicate creme brulee, incredible cheesecake and bread pudding with spiced rum and raisin sauce. The “Sin Cake” is undoubtedly the most requested dessert. This dark, dense flourless chocolate cake is decadent and rich. Traditionally, the cake is served with raspberry sauce in an intricate and eye-catching design that blankets the slice. However, it can also be served with a more inventive accompaniment--extra virgin olive oil and sea salt. Guests may think twice before ordering, but it does not disappoint. Anyone who enjoys the flavor of sea salt and caramel will delight in this dessert.

The subtle amount of fruity and fragrant olive oil combined with sea salt work beautifully with the deep chocolate flavor of the cake. This version of “Sin Cake” is not to be missed.

In addition to providing patrons with a fantastic menu of high quality dishes, it is important to the Cascio family to make their guests feel completely at home in their restaurant. They have created an atmosphere that is elegant, yet comfortable and chic, but not stuffy.

“We want everyone to feel comfortable to mix and mingle,” says René Cascio, “especially on Friday nights.”

To kick off the weekend, the restaurant features live music from local artists starting at 7 o’clock. Josh Madden, one of Monroe’s favorite musicians, regularly entertains guests with his enviable talents. Rene has designed the dining room to include a small dance floor near the music, which is near the bar. This encourages guests to traverse freely about the area, socialize with friends and move to the irresistible music.

“Friday nights are great because people can enjoy wonderful food and drinks with great music from great musicians like Josh Madden, Josh Love and Lisa Spann. People don’t feel anchored to their tables and can move around to see friends and enjoy really the atmosphere. You’re never too old to have a good time!” says René.

To add to the festive Friday atmosphere, Chef Fisher has created a “late night menu” only available after 9 o’clock. The dishes featured are designed to share and pair with cocktails or other libations.

“The small plates are easy to share with friends and orders can be customized for the guest’s needs,” says Fisher.

This special menu includes items like house-made andouille corndogs, decadent pimento beignets, flavorful hummus with a tomato tapenade and golden brown crab cakes. One of the most popular selections is the sliders plate, made up of a mini version of the Chateau burger, crab cake, and BLT. Guests can mix and match any combination for a trio of sliders.

Although the late night menu is only available on Friday nights, Cascio’s consistently offers amazing new specials and seasonal dishes. They also enjoy reviving old favorites like the Shrimp Diane, which fans of the original Chateau will remember is a delectable combination of angel hair pasta, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes and tender shrimp in a spicy red sauce. Find their Facebook page by searching “Cascio’s Chateau” to get current information on special menu items and events.

Like the other brilliant restaurants in the family, Cascio’s Chateau is destined to add another chapter in its illustrious culinary history. With a diverse menu, intriguing atmosphere, and impeccable service, this restaurant is certain to be the favorite of another generation of Monroe residents.

Cascio’s Chateau is located at 2001 Louisville Avenue. Find them on Facebook or reach the restaurant at 318.325.0384.

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S T E P P I N G I N T O S AVA N N A H K AT E M O R G A N â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S O F F I C E

is like walking into a fairy queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s throne room. From the gilded mermaid perched on her mer-inspired Christmas tree to her Baroque wood desk, her work space is a minimalist ode to the fantastical. Her desk chair, a gift from her father, is inarguably the perfect fit for this self-proclaimed Alice in Wonderland, a simple design of wood and gold metal with bunny ears rising from the back rest.

article by Vanelis Rivera | photos by Martin G Meyers and courtesy of Savannah Kate Morgan

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avannah’s space is filled with intresting trinkets, but it’s the 24-year-old’s dreamy style and ethereal presnes that are most captivating. Dressed in a candy-apple red 60’s inspired dress and sequin sapphire ballet slippers, Savannah evokes a quaint elegance that is nostalgically attractive.

The 28,000 followers on her Facebook page “Savannah Kate Photography” and 10,000 followers on her Instagram page @ savannah_kate_photography yearn for imagery that elicits magical escapism. Savannah’s photography and composites can be labeled as dreamscapes. They are amalgams of classic fairy tales, mythological creatures, nature, and‒most significantly‒magic. Last year Savannah published a book titled Once Upon a Dream, her own fairy tale that chronicles her artistic inspiration, most prominent images, photographic evolution, creative process, and even personal anecdotes.

A worthwhile purchase for any dreamer.

Savannah inherited her left brain savvy from both her parents, Kayla and Shane Bridges. Her mother is a business owner and her father a banker. However, Savannah cites her dominant right brain sensibilities as coming from her mother’s mother, Darla Thames.

“Nana” is the “creative artsy” figure who groomed Savannah’s explosive abilities.

It was at her Nana’s house that Savannah saw the film she says is responsible for 90 percent of her creativity, The Neverending Story. She reminisces about repeatedly watching this 1984 young adult favorite saying, “It made me believe in fairytales, in magic. It made me believe that it is okay to be different from society.”

Equipped with a penchant for the creative, Savannah delved into graphite drawing between middle school and high school, in Rayville, Louisiana, her hometown. Capitalizing on her unique talent, she began her own business at age 13 after a number of people requested portraits. She didn’t keep the business for long, but her skill with the pencil was award-winning. In 2011, Savannah’s entry to the George Rodrigue art scholarship contest was selected for first place from 424 entries across the state of Louisiana. Her $6,000 award allowed her to purchase her first professional camera.

She had already experimented with photography during middle school by using her father’s camcorder, and by high school she had “started playing around with subjects,” using a semi professional camera. Realizing she could make money off of her passion, she registered her photography business at age 16 and began her professional ventures. With her aims crystallizing, she enrolled in Louisiana Tech’s photography program.

After a year, she switched to a degree in business marketing, which she completed in 2015.

A mixture of curiosity and pure bravado paved the way for one of her most alluring photographic ventures: the fairytale sessions.

It all began with a young boy born at 26 weeks and diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Haidyn’s mother contacted Savannah for a Peter Pan themed shoot explaining all Haidyn wanted to “fly like Peter Pan.” Heart-struck, Savannah devised a way to make his dream a reality.

With the help of her now husband, Wayland Morgan, she crafted a sailboat using a wood pallet. While Haidyn lay prone, clad in a red-striped shirt and a green Peter Pan hat, Wayland held the pallet off the ground. Savannah photoshopped Wayland out, leaving a star-gazing Haidyn adrift above the grass, following Peter Pan’s shadow to Neverland. Haidyn’s mom revealed that when he saw the finished product he started crying. “Mom,” he said, “I’m flying like Peter Pan.” Even after a number of successful fairytale sessions themed on characteres from Cinderella to Mary Antoinette, that photograph of Haidyn is one of her favorite pictures because it allowed her to realize that magic “can be translated to real life even if it’s photoshopped.”

Savannah’s Instagram account is a virtual expedition through Wonderland.

Bursts of bright silky colors, elegant gowns, mermaid tails, fairy wings, curious backdrops, smiling faces. But scroll far enough and you’ll notice a few contrasting images laden with the reality that even in fairytales, hardship exists.

In October 2015, Savannah was faced with a metaphorical Jabberwocky that terrorized her Wonderland. Two days after a photoshoot in a Louisiana swamp, Savannah was rushed to the emergency room covered in about 200 mosquito bites. She was diagnosed with Spinal Viral Meningitis and hospitalized for two months. Thin, pale, and held captive in a tortured body, constantly being poked and prodded, she fell into depression.

“I felt like a pincushion,” she confessed as she showed me images of what she titled The Meningitis Series. The haunting and poetic black

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and white composites capture her pain and suffering during this period. They feature needle pins stuck to a much thinner Savannah.

While she has shared this part of her life on social media, she is still apprehensive about showing off the images, noting that people react differently to them. Nevertheless, those images became her “vorpal sword,” a tool of healing that affirmed her belief that “part of fairytales is the conquering.”

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hough she still suffers from residual migraines, Savannah had more wonder to explore, and so she charged on. A serendipitous conversation with a fellow photographer led to a rabbit hole of opportunities that would lead to travels in Mexico, Ireland and Iceland. Maureen Flynn, founder of The House of Flynn, a company that sells designer camera bags, invited Savannah to model a mermaid tail in Mexico.

Savannah had already been experimenting with composite mermaid shoots with a tail she purchased post graduation, but her imagination was unleashed in Mexico.

There she experienced swimming and getting used to her fins in the underwater caves of Playa del Carmen. Any mer-girl’s reverie.

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Savannah has continued collaborating with the House of Flynn by teaching at a workshop in Ireland this summer. Savannah says she was stunned when the workshop sold out 20 minutes after its announcement online in December 2016. Photographs from the workshop are posted in Savannah’s social media accounts. Not only a model for some of those shoots, she also styled a spellbinding elven-fairy session, aesthetically ‘Tolkienesque’ in nature.

It seems that Savannah navigates her inventiveness unconditionally.

Recently, she launched an Etsy shop called Paper Doll Vintage that stemmed from a subject of inspiration in her work: antiquing. Though the shop is “geared towards photographers for fantasy and fairytale session props” she encourages visits from “those that just have an all around whimsical personal style.”

Whether you are an interested client or an aspiring photographer, you are welcome to escape into Savannah’s realm via her website, www.savannahkatephotography.com.

A booking link provides booking details and her available dates. Meanwhile, photographers can take advantage of her online mentoring sessions and/or purchasing dress or digital backdrop overlays.

Unlike her heroine Alice, Savannah didn’t

fall into Wonderland, she created it out of sheer imagination and bravado. She admits, “I do have my head in the clouds, but I’m also not delusional.” She’s an enchantress, sculpting the mundane with her ingenuity. Savannah’s photography is for those who want to capture their own magic. It speaks to those who want to unlock their own greatness through her visionary spellwork, particularly children.

She enjoys “making the impossible happen” and “making kids believe in magic,” allowing them to “see themselves in that fairytale.” It’s a feat she sees as empowering.

Savannah may say she believes in magic, but her story evokes a more provocative truth: Savannah Kate Morgan is magic!

North Delta Food and Wine Festival Continued From Page 76

Festival posters are back this year.

Artist Molly Engen has designed this year’s poster which will be available at the Friday night event. There will be a limited run so you’ll want to get yours early.

Stevens notes that this fun-filled weekend is made possible through the generosity and support of the festival’s sponsors, restaurants, beverage distributors, chefs, volunteers and art enthusiasts. Stevens credits the event to the “tireless efforts and remarkable generosity” of a community that supports the arts. That fits well with the foodie community, too, Chef Blake points out.

“Our goal is two-fold, first to showcase the rich food culture in our

part of Louisiana and second to support the Arts Council,” Blake says.

Phillips adds, “The Arts Council recognizes that food and cooking is an art form, particularly in Louisiana. It’s important to celebrate this form of art and support the good work the Arts Council is doing to promote the overall art culture of our region.”

Tickets are limited and must be purchased at www. northdeltafoodandwinefestival.com.

The website also provides links and information about the seated dinners along with phone numbers to make reservations. Follow North Delta Food and Wine Festival on Facebook for updates and information.

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Downtown Gallery Crawl On August 3rd, the Downtown Gallery Crawl celebrated itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 10th anniversary. The Downtown Arts Alliance hosted special exhibitions and partnered with Alan Brockman, one of the co-founders of the Crawl, who brought the North Delta Ramble to Downtown Monroe. The Palace Gallery hosted The Ramble, as well as featured artist, Margaret Moses.

The anniversary party continued as Sugar Gallery presented various works of art sporting 3D glasses.

The Garrett House had an interactive show led by Brook Foy, while UPSTAIRS gallery in partnership with the Masur Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s AltEx program presented Entre Nosotros (Between Use) Variation II, an immersive video installation by artist Lionel Cruet. All nine galleries had an impressive showing and art crawlers enjoyed mingling and celebrating this momentous occasion.

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On the BayouScene 1 Laverne Turner and Deidra Adair 2 Kim Wilson and Scott Lykens 3 T ripper, Jason and Asher Nelson 4 L eigh Buffington, Amy Ouchley, and Anna Rowan 5 Ricky Haney, Carolyn Cummins and Cory Brown 6 Donita and Paul Smith, Emily Caldwell 7 Ginger Valentine, Holly Allen and Chasity Allen 8K athleen Woods, Denise Eckle, Candy Kuchinic, David Woods and Mark Kuchinic 9 Ashley, Andrew and Cully Hubenthal 10 M ashall and Victoria Smith 11 Ian Blaylock and Brittany Reeves 12 Jana Giles and Rod Werner 13 Fran Cable and Emi McIntyre 14 E mber Carmichael, Olivia Moore and Emily Bailes 15 Sam Bourland and Evan Helams 16 Misty Guy and Dixie Broadway 17 Lara and Nick Carlson 18 An Le, Brushana Montgomery and Taitianna Minifield 19 Bob Eisenstadt and Laverne Bodron 20 Dustin Greer and Anna Rowan 21 Stephen and Sam Jester 22 Sreyoun and Walt Smith 23 Lauren George and Parker Lee 24 Nic and Desirae Trappey 25 Rebekah Barnes and Katie Dawson 26 Angelina, Andrew, William and Astrid Bailey 27 Brad Long, Lezlee Shauf and Rory Smith

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Levee Gallery Reception

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Levee Gallery is the latest art gallery to open in Monroe and recently hosted a closing reception for this first showing of artists. The show featured work by Bunny Hewitt, Ann Johnston Currie and L A Jones.

Patrons enjoyed bubbly refreshments and food from Chef Pat Nolan. Located on North 18th Street in Murray Place Shopping Center, Levee Gallery is owned by Kathy Biedenharn, who recently opened the space to feature local artists, as well as artists from around the state and region.

There will be various mediums including paintings, photography, pottery, furniture, art glass, fabric art and more. The next show will feature the works of Dusty Reed of Lafayette, known as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cajun Picasso,â&#x20AC;? and Dustin Greer, an emerging artist from Monroe.

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On the BayouScene 1 Ann Johnston Currie and Kathy Biedenharn 2 Betty Crouch and Dustin Greer 3 J ohnny and Kathy Hewitt 4B illie Rosenfeld, Camille Peterson and Mandy Williamson 5 Sylvia Masur, Rachel Allen, Jo Libby Johnston and Jennifer White 6 Sarah and Hudson Biedenharn 7A nn Johnston Currie, Tommy and Marion Zentner 8 Susie Husted and Forrest Sartor 9C helsea Hoyle, Alex Pedigo and Cameron Mayeux 10 C hase Ramsay, Tony Pedigo and Steve Walker 11 Ann Johnston Currie, Kathy Biedenharn and Dustin Greer 12 William Currie, Ann Johnston Currie and Taylor Hubenthal 13 Billie Rosenfeld and Bunny Hewitt 14 R ebekah Williams and Darrell Williams 11

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Ouachita Parish Public Library Read Strong Results and Summer Reading Challenge Winners

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HE OUACHITA PARISH PUBLIC LIBRARY ENDED ITS Summer Reading Challenge with its annual Read Strong Event on Saturday, August 5th. In the three-hour span, a total of 42,364 pages were read in the 11 branch locations, including the Bookmobile that was located at Pecanland Mall Food Court entrance. “We were thrilled with the participation this year,” said Robin Toms, Library Director. “It was a great ending to our Summer Reading Challenge. Our patrons met our challenge to ‘Build a Better World’ through reading, and we are excited to announce this year’s prize winners.”

All those who read and turned in their results as a part of Read Strong were asked to nominate a Ouachita Parish teacher in one of the 11 drawings for $100 gift certificates to Scholastic Books. Each branch drew the winner from the nominations at a library staff meeting.

The Summer Reading Challenge also featured winners of prizes donated by local businesses. The names of the readers who met the challenge requirements were entered into a drawing for the prizes. Children who won include Molly Hart and Nyeisha Selders, who each won a Launchpad provided by Friends of the Ouachita Parish Library and by Findaway; and Emory Niswanger, Jacqueline Price, Elly Seemes, Wesley Curtis, Melinda Daniels and Shakira Washington, who each won five tickets to Splash Kingdom Waterpark. Teens who won included Victoria Wheat, an Eskamoe’s gift certificate; Kevin Sims, a Chick Fil-A gift certificate; Jalisa Garth, Raisin’ Cane’s gift certificate; Noah Ferguson, a Walmart gift certificate; Jordan Bailey, an e-tablet provided by the Friends of the Ouachita Parish Library; and Krysten Townsend, Debra Isaac, Rodney Gay, Niyearra Bush, and Simone Garth, CC’s Coffee House gift certificates. Adults who won included Julie LaBorde, Loree Auttonberry, Sonya Robinson, Timothy Shapely, and Jackie Peacock, Captain D’s gift certificates; Michael Bidleman, Debra Bidleman, Heather McCarty, Susan Davis, and Cynthia Malone, CC’s Coffee House gift certificates; Jerry Davis and Kecha Brown, Daily Harvest gift certificates; Karla Curtis and Tiffanie Eason, SpaBlue gift certificates; Sue David, RoeLa Roaster gift certificate; Robert Davis, Jr., Roly Poly gift certificate; Betty Baxter, Subway gift certificate; Lela Scott, Walmart gift certificate; Cindy Davis, Creamery gift certificate; Courtney George, Outback gift certificate; and Christina Edwards, an e-tablet provided by the Friends of the Ouachita Parish Library.

While the Summer Reading Challenge has concluded, events are gearing up for the fall. A list of August events is available in the Ouachita Parish Public Library’s Newsletter available free at every branch and posted at www.oplib.org. Library events are also posted on the Ouachita Parish Public Library page on Facebook. For more information, call 327-1490, or visit the website. For automatic updates on key library programs, become a fan of the Ouachita Parish Public Library on Facebook, or follow the library on Twitter.

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KEDM Craft Festiv-ALE

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On Thursday, July 20, KEDM hosted a Craft Festiv-ALE at Tonoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wine Cellar in Monroe. Patrons were invited to taste and discover craft beers from Marsala Beverage, Choice Brands and International Wine and Spirits, each bringing samples of true American craft beers. Brian Sivils and Kirby Rambin provided live entertainment, while patrons enjoyed food provided by Friends of KEDM. All proceeds went to benefit 90.3 KEDM, the listener-supported public radio station for Monroe, West Monroe and all or parts of 11 parishes of northeast Louisiana. The station broadcasts a lineup of in-depth NPR news, Classical, Jazz and a variety of other musical genres, along with special entertainment and other enriching programs.

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Damon Marsala and Russell Kicey Patrick Murray and Tyler Harris Albert Paxton and Heath Lord L ee Edwards, Sheena Burbridge and Joe Chisholm 5 Jared Desadier and Phil Fanning 6 Meghan and Nick Nelson 7 S amantha Spears, Jaime Young and Crystal Jackson 8 Art Richert and BJ Bryant 9 Ann Bloxom Smith and Ann Daigle 10 Steve Walker, Russell Kicey and Guy Miller 11 Stephanie and Tim Mickel 12 Delia Simpson and Ryan Warner 13 Guy and Nancy Miller 14 Scot Humes and Magan Bass 15 Brenda and Chris Foster 16 C ory Crowe, Kenneth Sanders, Lila Strode and Jay Curtis 17 C rystal and Dan McBride and Nikki and Robert Frost 18 Jessica and Jonathan Lawson 19 Kim and Lee Sherrill

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KEDM State of the Station On Thursday, August 10, the KEDM Annual Meeting and State of the Station was held on the campus of ULM. Jay Curtis addressed the current state of funding and operation of the station, while Lila Strode recognized outstanding volunteers and companies that support the public radio station.

Guest Speaker Barry Ancelet addressed the crowd on the topic of Culture as an Economic Driver: Using the Past to Construct the Future. Later that night, local musicians performed at Live Oaks as a part of Roots Revival. The result was a fusion of old and new, sharing the music of our American history with the talents of local musicians and composers.

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HEMLINE MONROE

Be on the cutting edge with these high-waisted, cropped skinny jeans that feature raw hems. Pair them with a racer back tank that is perfect for layering and these leather peep toe booties with stacked heel. Accessorize with this gorgeous necklace by Cynthia Ryan, marble beaded bracelets and stone ring.

GOOD JEANS

Denim is a year-round favorite. This season add some new jean therapy to your wardrobe by working in denim in baby blue hues, shirts with frayed edges, uneven hems and printed jackets.

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KIMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S YOUNIQUE BOUTIQUE

These classic WannaBettaButt jeans feature a high-waist and instantly slimming fit. Tie up a light blue denim shirt with snap closures and slip on these strappy sandals. Accessorize with a leather and hoop choker, a leather and beaded bracelet and a camel-colored leather belt with western-style buckle.

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DUCK AND DRESSING

This â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;70s-inspired flare jean is a denim must-have. Add a feminine and flirty floral print bralette and this graphicprint denim jacket for a look that will beat the blues. Accessorize with pom pom earrings and a gray baseball cap and these Western-inspired booties with modern, open-side construction.

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THE FLEURTY GINGER BOUTIQUE Denim from head to toe is the way to go. We love these comfy, cropped denim pants with a frayed hem paired with a soft-washed Chambray buttondown. These fashion-forward sneakers feature a quilted design, and this look is completed with a leather choker and round, gold sunglasses.

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CROSWELLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BOUTIQUE 139

Mallory looks stunning in this boho-style, off-the-shoulder dress with bow-tied arm straps. Layer on these gorgeous wood and crystal beaded necklaces and gold and crystal bracelets. Complete the look with these suede heel sandals with a strappy design and rounded laces that tie at the back.

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FREE BIRDS BOUTIQUE Every woman should own a great denim shirt and this relaxed fit shirt is the perfect staple. These salt wash jeans feature a mid-rise and distressed details throughout. Accessorize with a crescent gold necklace, pendant ring and a sophisticated earring and finish the look with these colorful suede sneakers and Chambray purse.

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CARAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BOUTIQUE

This denim dress is great for transitional weather. Worn as a dress or a tunic, it features a lace-up detail and front pockets. Layer this olive crochet vest and long beaded necklace with stacked beaded bracelets. These classic boots feature distressed leather and a stacked heel. Top it off with a green felt hat with a leopard print tassel.

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SOUTHERN

CHARM

It’s not hard to spot a Steel Magnolia when you see one – graceful and stylish – these seven ladies exemplify what it means to have Southern charm.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN G MEYERS

ASHLEY WATKINS-AMBREW BL) HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE? AA) I would say I’m sophisticated sexy. I like to be elegant, but lean more towards a conservative look when the event calls for it.

BL) WHAT IS ONE STAPLE YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE IN THEIR CLOSET? AA) A pair of really great black pumps. I always keep a pair in my car. You can throw them on with anything and make it look great – from a cocktail dress to a pair a jeans – a pair of black pumps are an essential piece of any woman’s wardrobe.

BL) DO YOU HAVE A TRADEMARK ACCESSORY OR LOOK? AA) Scarves. I own over 100 scarves. I know that sounds a bit exessive, but scarves can really help pull an outfit together. Whether it’s cashmere or linen, scarves can change with the season and they serve multipurposes. You can wrap up in a cozy scarf on an airplane, snuggle up in one at a football game or add one to a simple tee and jeans for a look that is pulled together.

BL) DO YOU HAVE A FASHION INSPIRATION? AA) Iman. Not only is she a pioneer in fashion and ethnic cosmetics, she is also known for her philanthropic endeavors. Her style is simple and effortless.

BL) TELL US WHAT YOU’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT? AA) I love my job at Louisiana Hospice and Palliative Care. I feel like it puts me in a position to help patients, caregivers and loved ones during times of great need. Knowing that I can help improve the quality of someone’s life is very rewarding.

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MELISSA DURRETT BL) TELL US ABOUT YOUR PERSONAL STYLE? MD) It’s changed so much over the years. I was a nurse for 10 years so for the longest time, I wore scrubs. When I started helping my husband at his law firm, I started incorporating pieces in my wardrobe that were a little edgy, but classic.

BL) WHAT WILL YOU NOT LEAVE HOME WITHOUT? MD) Mascara and lip glow. I love Dior Addict Lip Glow because it is a universal balm that brings out the natural color in your lip.

BL)WHAT IS A STAPLE THAT EVERY WOMAN SHOULD HAVE IN HER CLOSET? MD) A good blazer. You can dress it up, wear it out, and it can also be layered with a casual outfit for a relaxed look.

BL) DO YOU HAVE A TRADEMARK ACCESSORY OR LOOK? MD) I have a few necklaces that I’ve bought at EDIT by LBP in Baton Rouge. A statement necklace is definitely my go-to accessory.

BL) WHO IS YOUR FASHION INSPIRATION? MD) My best friend and college roommate, Ashley Peré. She always looks amazing. She can take something so simple and look like a million bucks.

BL) TELL US WHAT YOU’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT? MD) I’ve been involved with the United Way for years now. I feel like they’re an organization that reaches out to our whole community. There are so many children in our community in need and as an OB nurse and NICU nurse – I’ve seen first hand the impact that an outreach program can make in the lives of those in need. We are also really involved in the development and growth of Downtown Ruston.

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ASHLEY ELLIS BL) TELL US ABOUT YOUR PERSONAL STYLE? AE) My hair is defining for me. I’ve always embraced my curls and with that, I’ve had to learn to build my wardrobe around it. I can’t wear bold prints – or else, it can be the ‘80s all over again. I am in education, too. So, I have to look professional, but try to balance that with things that I like to wear.

BL) DO YOU TEND TO LEAN TOWARD TRENDS? AE) I definitely like to embrace current trends in my accessories. You can add a punch of color with a fringe earring or a tassel statement necklace to a neutral outfit and make it fun.

BL) WHAT IS A STAPLE THAT EVERY WOMAN SHOULD HAVE IN HER CLOSET? AE) A quality leather jacket. A real leather jacket will last for seasons and you can layer it with anything. Pair it with snakeskin pumps, a LBD, casual tee or denim and it looks great.

BL) DO YOU HAVE A TRADEMARK ACCESSORY OR LOOK? AE) Large earrings to go with my big hair. For a while I never wore them, and then there was an earring explosion.

BL) WHO IS YOUR FASHION INSPIRATION? AE) My mom was always very fashionable. I remember going back-to-school shopping and she would take me to Signatures, The Indigo Company and other boutiques, and those memories really stand out.

BL) WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT? AE) Education. We have to educate our children to make a difference. I love to see the progression of where a child starts and then where they end.

It’s gratifying and I feel like I’ve made an impact when I can see a child reach their potential.

We’ve go to focus on curriculum and educating our youth so that one day they will be community advocates.

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HEATHER LAND BL) WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT? HL) While I’ve lived in this area forever, I haven’t made an effort to be a part of the community until recently. But, I have found myself having great, unexpected conversations with other dreamers – locals who have committed themselves to our area with great passion. And in turn, in various ways, I am finding myself privileged to work alongside them – whether it be with my camera-in-hand or just my creative spirit chatting possibilities. And though my part is so tiny by comparison, I am crazy grateful for it.

BL) WHAT IS A STAPLE THAT EVERY WOMAN SHOULD HAVE IN HER CLOSET? HL) The perfect denim shirt. I get a new denim shirt every year. It’s a classic staple that every woman can wear.

BL) WHAT IS YOUR FASHION INSPIRATION? HL) I don’t really have one. I believe in dressing comfortably. I think women who dress comfortably are confident. It’s not neccessarily what you are wearing as much as how you carry yourself. My mom always told me that I could wear a paper bag and make it look good <insert eye roll> and I never believed her. But, maybe she was on to something.

BL) DO YOU HAVE A TRADEMARK ACCESSORY OR LOOK? MD) I have old band t-shirts that are legitimately old and belonged to my husband. I love pairing them with a blazer and a pair of Chucks.

BL) WHAT WILL YOU NOT LEAVE HOME WITHOUT? HL) Chapstick. It’s my one beauty essential. I feel like women are at their most beautiful, when they appear natural.

BL) DO YOU HAVE A STYLE ICON? HL) Not really. At this stage in my life, I’m loving my own style - which is whatever I can throw together and feel confident in (even if it’s over and over). I feel more comfortable as me than ever before and don’t have the pressure to dress in any particular way.

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SUSAN EWING BL) DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE? SE) I very rarely wear patterns. I’ve always been drawn to solids and neutral colors. I am most comfortable in a tennis skirt.

BL) DO YOU LEAN TOWARD TRENDS THAT ARE POPULAR? SE) I like to have a trendy item in my closet and the ladies at The Fashion of Ruston always help guide me on how to incorporate a trend without overdoing it.

BL) WHAT IS A STAPLE THAT EVERY WOMAN SHOULD OWN? SE) A long cardigan. It’s generally a flattering look for women of every size. Layering pieces can really bring an outfit together and can help transition through the seasons.

BL) DO YOU HAVE A TRADEMARK ACCESSORY? SE) Scarves. I don’t wear a lot of pattern but I’ll add color and a print to an outfit with a scarf. We just got back from Paris and I racked up at the Hermès store.

BL) WHO IS YOUR FASHION INSPIRATION? SE) Audrey Hepburn. She’s the queen of flawless style. My favorite outfit is a turtle neck, ankle jeans and loafers. I always tell my two girls, “You always want to look effortless, even if it is very calculated.”

BL) WHAT IS A STAPLE YOU WON’T LEAVE THE HOUSE WITHOUT? SE) Hand cream. I go back and forth between Caudalie and L’Occitane. Everyone teases me about it but my hands stay dry and it’s the one thing I have to have daily.

BL) WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT? SE) I love the United Way and volunteer to read to 2nd graders through their program READ.LEARN.SUCCEED. It’s a community based initiative that helps children read more proficiently, inspire their love of reading and in return, increases their chances of graduating from high school.

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TIFFANY RUTLAND BL) DO YOU TEND TO LEAN TOWARD CURRENT TRENDS? TR) I like to sneak trends in my wardrobe. I’ll wear a leopard print flat with a skinny jean and t-shirt but I wouldn’t wear head-to-toe leopard print.

BL) QUANTITY OR QUALITY? TR) I love to shop a sale and I love bargains. If I have an occasion that I need to dress up for, I’ll invest in a good quality piece. And I believe that you should invest in a great pair of black pants, a nice blazer and silk shirt. But, if I’m looking for a trend to add to my wardrobe, I’ll shop at TJ Maxx.

BL) WHAT IS A STAPLE EVERY WOMAN SHOULD HAVE? TR) I think everyone should have a good pair of jeans. I buy what looks good, I don’t really have a certain brand that I endorse. But, I love Curvy Slim jeans by Levi’s.

BL) BAGS OR SHOES? TR) Shoes. It’s a lot of work changing bags. I’ll buy a neutral bag that will carry me through several seasons. It’s a lot easier to change shoes everyday – not as easy to change bags. I have two little boys: Henry is 5 and Ryan is 1, so right now my purse is generally stuffed in a diaper bag.

I definitely think that your style changes with your kids.

BL) WHAT ITEM WILL YOU NOT LEAVE HOME WITHOUT? TR) Germ-X. Hands down, it’s the one thing I will not leave home without.

BL) WORST FASHION MEMORY? TR) MC Hammer pants. They were navy blue with flaps that would button in front.

BL) WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT? TR) I volunteer with the United Way. I love this organization because we help everyone – we help D.A.R.T., assist people who’ve had house fires and children in need, through the schools and partnering with outreach programs. I also love being a pharmacist. I feel like I can help guide people and let them know if they can get something over-the-counter or if they do need to see a doctor. If I can help improve the quality of someone’s life, that’s rewarding.

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JANELLE SNELLINGS BL) DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE. JS) My look is simple and classic. I love a crisp white shirt with dark denim jeans and great accessories.

BL) WHAT IS A STAPLE EVERY WOMAN SHOULD HAVE IN HER CLOSET? JS) A good dress. I had an aunt that told me “Never go out in a dress and look odd.” Every woman should have a dress in her closet that she can wear to multiple functions and look fabulous and be comfortable in.

BL) BAGS OR SHOES? JS) I have more of avariety of bags. I usually only buy one shoe per season because I invest in quality footwear. I always buy real leather because it conforms to your foot. I want a shoe that I can walk in and stand in for at least two hours. So, by bag collection is a little superior to my shoe collection.

BL) WHAT IS YOUR TRADEMARK ACCESSORY OR LOOK? JS) Anything ruched or ruffled makes me happy.

BL) WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU WON’T LEAVE THE HOUSE WITHOUT? JS) Lipstick. I really love SeneGence LipSense. It doesn’t dry out your lips and the color lasts.

BL) DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE DESIGNER? JS) I adore Balmain. But, I definitely patronize local boutiques. If I have an event to go to and need something quick, I can pop in to any of our area retailers and pick up something fashionable and know that I’m supporting our community and local business owners.

BL) WHAT ARE YOU MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT? JS) I’m passionate about my children and the children in our community. I have three kids: Sallie Jayne, Georgia and Quinn. When I’m not with them, I like to invest my efforts with community non-profits like the United Way and CASA.

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BayouTrends

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We’re crazy for navy this season. From baseball caps to tees, earrings to fingernail polish, this dark blue hue is dominating trends this fall. Find these pieces at area retailers.

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1. ARLETTE 2. HAIK HUMBLE EYE CENTER 3. CARA’S 4. DEER CREEK BATH CO. 5. BAYOU LIGHT 6. DUCK AND DRESSING 7. HERRINGSTONE’S 8. CROSWELL’S BOUTIQUE 139 9. DUPONT JEWELERS 10. MATERIAL THINGS 11. ELEVEN 26 12. K-SERA 13. FIESTA NUTRITION CENTER 14. HEMLINE MONROE 15. SEREDIPITY DESIGNER JEWELRY 16. SPA NOUVELLE/DERMA MEDIQ 17. MD MINERALS 18. RAIN BEAUTY | BODY 19.KIM’S YOUNIQUE BOUTIQUE 20. THE MUFFIN TIN 21. THE TOGGERY 22. DOT DOT’S BOUTIQUE 23. FABULOUS FABRIC 24. RON ALEXANDER CLOTHIERS FOR MEN 25. THE NUDE NOMAD 26. FREE BIRDS BOUTIQUE 27. THE FLEURTY GINGER BOUTIQUE 28. BENT OAKS 29. HOLLIS & COMPANY JEWELERS

ELEVEN 26

This scarlett top will make a statement when paired with these lace-up sided bandage pants.

Accessorize with black rhinestone tassel earrings, gunmetal and rhinestone bracelets and an elegant heel with ankle strap.

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BENT OAKS BOUTIQUE

This seafoam-colored linen crop top features balloon sleeves and an easy fit. Pair it with these black linen pants with pockets and a black frayed linen jacket. Accessorize with a statement necklace with a gemstone and tassels and beaded dangle earrings.

A PO P O F

COLOR

The easiest way to get out of a style rut is by adding the seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hottest hues. If your ebony ensembles are a little stale, take a cue from us and punch up your look with a pop of color.

MUAH by Meka Bennett & Model: Ellie Jackson Photography by Martin G Meyers

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K-SERA

This two-piece set features a sultry lace overlay, perfect for an evening out on the town.

Pair it with a blush tone jacket for cool nights. Complete the look with simple and elegant diamond studs and bangle. And, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget these fabulous black pumps with a glistening rhinestone bow and open peep toe.

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DOT DOTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BOUTIQUE

This flirty romper features a cold-shoulder design with ruffle detailing around the neckline and shoulders. Ellie is pretty in these pink, ash rose suede pumps and her look is accessorized with a simple, beaded wrap bracelet.

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HERRINGSTONEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

Dress it up or down. This vegan leather mini skirt has a sophisticated silhouette and exposed seam detailing. Ellie pairs it with a wing sleeve top in rust and a metallic Chanelinspired belt. Accessorize with sparkling black rhinestone tassel earrings, a hologram clutch and these fabulous metallic pumps.

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THE NUDE NOMAD

Ellie is a little bit rock nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; roll in this one-shoulder check print top with multi-way tie at the waist. She wears a pair of lustrous black velvet leggings and luxe suede heeled sandals with an ankle strap. The look is accessorized with a purse that features an original vinyl record album on one side and decorative art album cover on the reverse side, a turquoise statement necklace, layered bracelets and gold earrings.

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BAYOU LIGHT

Ellie sports a black women’s v-neck tee with local shirt company Bayou Light’s signature cypress tree logo. This soft tee if perfect for back-toschool in the Bayou State. Add a punch of color with this unisex baseball cap with blue and green accents.

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BAYOUSTYLE 1. Hemline Monroe 2. The Nude N omad 3. Free

Birds Boutique

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FLOWER POWER

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Get into the spirit this season with feminine frocks and accessories in floral prints.

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STYLIST’S TIP

Don’t be afraid to mix trends. Add a leather jacket with a floral dress.

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LUXE LEATHER

1. Duck and Dressing 2. Cara’s 3. Eleven 26

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From booties to bags, leather is a trend that is always in. Find these great items at area retailers.

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MAKING A STATEMENT Hit all the right notes with these bold accessories. From fringe accents to heavy metal, statement jewelry is a must.

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GOLD LUST 8

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It’s the gilded age and this season, gold reigns supreme among metallics.

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RED HAUTE

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1. C roswell’s Boutique 139 2. K-Sera 3. F ree Birds Boutique

Take your cue from these red-hot hues and make a showstopping statement this season.

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STYLIST’S TIP

Try mixing red and pink for a fun and flirty look.

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HEAD H E E L S over

With fall just around the corner, it’s time to stock up on this season’s best heels. We’ve asked area retailers to send their favorite styles – from cute chunky heels to ankle strap styles and everything in between, these looks will have you head over heels.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN G MEYERS

K-Sera

Kim’s Younique Boutique

Dot Dot’s Boutique

Duck and Dressing

Eleven 26

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The Fleurty Ginger Boutique

The Nude Nomad

HerringStone’s

Free Birds Boutique

Cara’s

Croswell’s Boutique 139

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Calendar of Events For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com September 1 Rock the Railroad: Celebrate the State

Join us in Downtown Ruston for our first “Rock the Railroad” event of LA Tech football season!

The Bulldogs are up against Northwestern State University and we are “celebrating the state” Friday night with brews from Abita Brewing Company, Cajun cuisine including jambalaya, meats pies, boudin balls and beignets, live music and more!

You can also shop custom made Louisiana T-Shirts! And remember, on Saturday, stick around for tailgating and football!

Location: Railroad Park Admission: Free and open to the public Hours: 5:30 p.m.

Phone: 318-255-2031 September 2 Black Bayou Kids Program-Herons and Cranes

Join the rangers for a fun and educational program on Herons and Cranes! The program for ages 3-5 begins at 10 a.m. followed by the program for 6-12 year olds at 11 a.m.

Venue: Black Bayou Lake NWR Hours: 10 a.m. for 3-5 yo; 11 a.m. for 6-12 yo Cost: Free Phone: 318-387-1114 A Family Affair Live Concert

This concert features The Hawkins Family, The Hawkins Boys, Betty Hawkins and United and a special performance by The Walls Group. Red carpet hosted by Joint Heirs Magazine.

Venue: West Monroe Convention Center Hours: Doors open at 4 p.m; Program starts at 5 p.m.

Cost: $30 in advance or $35 at the door; Kids (ages 6-12) $12; $45 for VIP Phone: 318-237-2241 September 6 A Taste of Ruston

This event will be held during

Welcome Week at Louisiana Tech University in the quad. There will be local eateries, gift shops, organizations, and much more showcasing their food, gifts and samples outside the student center!

Hours: 12 – 2 p.m.

September 7-10, 15-16 My Fair Lady

Hailed by critics and audiences for its heart and its wit, My Fair Lady is a beautiful musical about transformation, patronage, gender politics and class - based on George Bernard Shaw’s play, Pygmalion.

The ending is left ambiguous, yet it is beloved for being both one of the cleverest and one of the most romantic plays of all time.

Venue: Strauss Theatre Center Hours: Friday and Saturday 7 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m.

Cost: $30 plus tax for Adult/$10 for Student Phone: 318-323-6681 September 8 Rock the Railroad: Bulldogs and Brews

Join us in Downtown Ruston to “Rock the Railroad” for LA Tech Football! The Bulldogs are up against Mississippi State University and Railroad Park will be full of bulldogs and brews Friday night. Local brewery tastings, pizza by the slice, pop-up shops, live music and more!

And remember, on Saturday, stick around for tailgating and football!

Location: Railroad Park Admission: Free and open to the public Time: 5:30 p.m.

Phone: 318-255-2031 September 9 Downtown Donut Dash

Grab a donut at each mile aid station at this fun run in Downtown Monroe. The top 10 male and top 10 female finishers who take down 3 donuts and cross the finish line will receive awards. Additional raffle prizes are also available.

Venue: Downtown Riverwalk Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

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Cost: $15-$25 Landry Vineyards presents: Code Blue

Landry Vineyards winery outdoor concert featuring Code Blue! A mix of 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and country music will have you, family and friends dancing all night. Make sure you pack your lawn chair, blanket and picnic dinner and enjoy the outdoor show.

Venue: Landry Vineyards Hours: 4 – 7 p.m.

Cost: Adults: $10; Ages 13-18: $5; Children 12 and under: Free Phone: 318-557-9051 Driven Desires Car, Truck, and Bike Show

Driven Desires is a Car, Truck, and Bike Show open to all years, makes and models of vehicles. any classics, antiques, muscle cars, import cars, lifted trucks, bagged trucks and any type of motorcycles are welcome. This will be our 8th year raising money for the local chapter of MDA. We look forward to seeing everyone for an amazing turn out this year!

Venue: Monroe Civic Center Hours: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Cost: $5 Phone: 318-791-4585 September 15-17 2017 Southern Nationals

Check out the action at this indoor off-road R/C race all weekend long. Divisions include 4x4 sct, Etruggy, Sportsman Ebuggy, Open Ebuggy, Pro Ebuggy, Sportsman Nitro Truggy, Open Nitro Truggy, Pro Nitro Truggy, Over 40 Nitro Buggy, Sportsman Nitro Buggy, Open Nitro Buggy and Pro Nitro Buggy.

Venue: Ike Hamilton Expo Center Hours: All day Cost: Free to attend Phone: 318-325-9160 September 16 The Black and White Ball 2017

Get dressed up in your finest for the 13th Annual Black and White

Ball! Be transported to a “Casino Royale” with professional dealers, Vegas-style games, and great prizes in support of The Children’s Advocacy Center. Also enjoy decadent cuisine and music from Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. and the Zydeco Twisters!

Venue: Bayou DeSiard Country Club Hours: 7 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Cost: $100 Phone: 318-398-0945 2017 NELA Race for the Cure

The 2017 Northeast Louisiana Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure where 75% of the proceeds stay in North Louisiana to provide education, screening and support services. The other 25% goes to national research to find the cure!

Venue: Forsythe Park Hours: 7 a.m.

Cost: varies depending on participation type Phone: 318-966-8130 Warhawk Football: ULM vs.

Southern Miss

Support the Warhawks as they take on Southern Miss.

Hours : 6 p.m.

Cost : Ticket prices vary.

Venue: ULM Malone Stadium Phone : 318-342-1000 September 21 Rock N Box with Josh Madden

Join us at the Food Bank during Hunger Action Month for a rockin’ night of volunteering! Josh Madden and his band will be jamming for us as we box up food in our warehouse. Meet others who share a love of giving back while helping feed the hungry in our community!

Venue: Food Bank of NELA Hours: 6-8 p.m.

Phone: 318-322-3567 September 23 2017 River Rat Paddle Challenge

Paddle down the historic Ouachita River in this exciting, competitive event. The route starts at the Bayou D’arbonne Boat Ramp

and finishes at Trapp’s. The race will be about 6.5 miles long and will include divisions for paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks (multiple lengths/styles) for men, women and children. Be sure to hang out at Trapp’s after the race for the awards ceremony and after party!

Proceeds will benefit Horse Assisted Therapy Services of North Louisiana.

Venue: Bayou D’arbonne Boat Ramp Hours: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Cost: $50 Phone: (318) 325-8889 Night of Champions

This fight is a USBA Lightweight Title fight between Rashad Ganaway from Little Rock,Ar and Cody Richard from Orange, Tx. Ganaway is 18-5-1 with 10 KO’s and Richard 19-2-1 with 9 KO’s. The fight card has international fighters and multiple local up-and-coming fighters as well as fan favorite Quentin Henry fighting in his first professional boxing match.

Venue: ULM Fant-Ewing Coliseum Hours: 6 – 9:30 p.m.

Cost: $15-$25 Phone: 318-342-1000 September 27-30 Munchkin Market

Munchkin Market is Northeast Louisiana’s original children’s consignment sale. This sale is the perfect way to purchase clothing, toys and gear for your growing kids!

With gently loved boutique, namebrand and high end department store clothing and more, you’re sure to find a great deal!

Venue: Pine Grove Baptist Church Gym - 3100 Loop Road in Monroe Time: Times vary by day Cost: Free to the public www.monroemunchkinmarket.com September 28 Painting with a Purpose Food Bank Fundraiser

Join us for a fun night of painting while helping to fight hunger in NELA! No experience is necessary, with simple step by step instruction in a relaxing atmosphere. Only $40/person all supplies included to complete your very own 16x20 masterpiece. 50% of the money raised will go back to the Food Bank to support the fight against hunger. Must register online or by phone at (318) 654-4800.

Venue: Painting with a Twist Hours: 7-9 p.m.

Phone: 318-654-4800 September 29-30 Louisiana Chicken Festival

Head on over to Lincoln Parish for the annual Louisiana chicken Festival! On Friday night, listen to music and be a part of the street dance, and on Saturday shop vendors, be a part of contests and games, and of course, enjoy southern chicken!

Location: Dubach, LA Admission: Free Time: Fri 6:30 – 10 p.m. ; Sat 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Phone: 318-777-8540 September 29 Rock the Railroad: Maker’s Night

Join us in Downtown Ruston to “Rock the Railroad” for LA Tech Football! The Bulldogs are up against South Alabama and we will be preparing for the fall Ruston Makers Fair with 10 local makers, brews, food trucks, live music and more!

Location: Railroad Park Admission: Free and open to the public Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Phone: 318-255-2031 September 30 Warhawk Football: ULM vs. Coastal California

Support the Warhawks as they take on Coastal California.

Hours: 6:00 p.m.

Cost: Ticket prices vary.

Venue: ULM Malone Stadium Phone : 318-342-1000 Enjoy your stay in MonroeWest Monroe!

We at the Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitor’s Bureau hope you have a great stay here!

Please feel free to call us at 800-8431872 if you have any questions. You may also stop by our offices at 601 Constitution Drive, West Monroe, for brochures, coupons and additional information.

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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