THE WALKING PIG

he Walking Pig is an unusual name for a T restaurant serving traditional southern favorites as well as creative versions of regional classics, but the evocative nomenclature comes with a story. Once upon an eclectic downtown scene in St. Joseph, Louisiana, an old bar and cafe existed on Levee Street. It was wellknown for its neon pig sign, a curiosity made all the more fun by the neon legs trotting back and forth in flashes. And, though it closed sometime in the 1980s, its revelries and crazy memories of merrymaking live on in the hearts of many townspeople. It was not a difficult choice, then, for Jessica and Stacey Mobley to pay homage to a locale with such a jovial grasp on the community when considering what to name their new restaurant. “Somebody just threw it out,” says Jessica, who was immediately fond of the name. “I just thought it was so cute. And, you know, fun, memorable.” Nevertheless, unlike its namesake, The Walking Pig, as it stands, is styled as a modern Southern pub serving a varied menu of hand-crafted foods and beverages housed in a renovated 1930s storefront, one of many quaint businesses on Plank Road that is sure to bring a celebratory squeal of delight to a new generation of revelers.

Jessica originally grew up in the nearby town of Waterproof. “My family’s been here for many generations,” she says. After college, her husband Stacey got a job in video and film production in the Nashville area, so they made the move and stayed for about 25 years. During that time, Jessica, who has always had an inclination for culinary pursuits, began to network with restaurants through her own small business. After a while, she talked her husband into buying a food truck in order to further establish her business and eventually open a small restaurant. After three years of working from the food truck, the pair found a space outside of Nashville, a “little place” where a barbecue joint was moving out. “We thought, it’s really tiny, you know; it’s perfect to jump in. We can handle that,” she informs. Within a year, their tiny restaurant Delta Bound was “busting at the seams,” so much so that they had to expand, and “just by chance,” were able to use the space next door, doubling their square footage. Though they maintained that space for six years, the couple always considered returning to Tensas Parish. Consistently communicating with friends and family, they were informed of the revitalization efforts sweeping the historic downtown area. “It started looking like maybe we possibly could open a business here, and not have to wait until retirement to move back home,” says Jessica.

With a desire to assist in the downtown reinvigoration and a deeply rooted love for their community, the couple returned to their early stomping grounds. “We thought that would be awesome if we could take what we were already doing and bring that to St. Joseph,” enthuses Jessica. They shared their specifications and restaurant concept with Becky and Michael Vizard, the owners of the building that now houses The Walking Pig, and ultimately rolled up their sleeves and worked alongside them to make their vision a reality. The restaurant opened its doors on September 1, 2021, consequently setting in motion an exciting new economy offering jobs, training, and a place for the community to immerse themselves in entertainment and leisure. “We just really wanted to serve [the community],” she adds.

When thinking of curating the interior, the pair was determined to provide a comfortable and approachable aesthetic, “so that people could, you know, feel comfortable to come every day for lunch if they want to, but also have a little bit of refinement.” The spacious interior of wood-lined entryways, hanging brass light fixtures, and woodpaneled roof creates an atmosphere suitable for a casual lunch, date night, or even a celebratory gathering of family, friends, and/ or co-workers. “We had a bunch of Christmas parties booked this past December,” says Jessica, who has observed parties running the gamut from “really casual all the way up to very dressy.” In order to further maximize the feel of the space, Jessica and Stacey leaned into the design instincts of Becky Vizard, owner of B. Viz Designs, who helped pick out light fixtures and paint colors. “She and I talked many times over design ideas for the interior,” shares Jessica, who at the time was 400 miles away in Tennessee. “And it’s not quite finished. You know, there are a lot of things that still we want to tweak and finish out and add to it. [It’s] just gonna have to come in stages because the most important thing was to get in and get open.” One such idea that Jessica has been churning involves enlivening the walls in the hallway with newspaper articles, photos, and other memorabilia from the town’s history. She has already started a collection with the help of the town’s museum and library situated next door to the restaurant. “I think that would be so cool for people to be able to look through and see what downtown used to look like. You know what, where the businesses were... what the houses looked like.”

Taking a similar approach to the menu, Jessica wanted to make sure that not only was she honoring southern cooking, but also keeping more modernized dishes approachable. “In Tennessee, you know, we call it deep south food. Here, it’s just you know, the southern food that everybody loves,” says Jessica, who aimed to, more than anything, make her dishes from scratch. “Having a scratch kitchen is what makes the food unique to you.” Both Jessica and Stacey have a love for the food industry, and her husband, in particular, is a “big foodie” thanks to her coaxing. Though the foundation of their menu items stem from what they began when owners of Delta Bound, they wanted to make sure they had standard items, like a catfish po’boy people can’t get enough of, or “a really good hamburger.”

A few menu items featured smoked meats, an influence from her husband, and one that he developed while they lived in Nashville. “In Tennessee, you’re kind of immersed in barbecue culture,” she says, revealing that he always wanted to learn the careful and patient art of smoking meats, so he taught himself. “I love our smoked chicken salad,” says Jessica. This “amped up,” traditional Southern-style chicken salad incorporates their smoked chicken, alongside the expected pecans and cranberries. “We sell that by the pint,” she says, referring to their grab-andgo fridge, which also consists of a variety of dips (pimento cheese, boudin dip, and Neiman Marcus dip) and soups (butternut squash, black bean and roasted pepper, and braised cabbage). “I love our tacos,” continues Jessica, who has dubbed her creations “Southern-style tacos,” using a flour tortilla, filled with regionallyinspired ingredients. Their pork belly taco is smoked Berkshire pork belly, pineapple pico, Sriracha honey glaze, and cabbage. More on the wild side is their blackened alligator taco: Louisiana gator tail, pico, avocado, and chipotle crema. Feeling down-home vibes?

COMING HOME With a desire to assist in the downtown reinvigoration of St. Joseph and a deeply rooted love for their community, the couple returned to their early stomping grounds to open The Walking Pig.

Their Southern fried chicken taco is sure to please with apple slaw, guacamole, and Green Goddess dressing. Their catfish tacos are seasonal because it includes a sweet corn salsa and the corn used at The Walking Pig is ordered fresh, “which you can’t get really good all year round.”

By far, the brisket melt sandwich is the most popular item on the menu. It is a smoked brisket topped with pepper jack, house BBQ sauce, and fried banana peppers and placed between house-baked white bread. “It was even one of the favorites in Tennessee. So it must appeal to a bunch of people.” Not to be outdone by the savory bliss the menu has to offer, a few sweet dessert items are always circulating the counters. In addition to cookies, pies, and puddings, Jessica has featured some truly unexpected layered cakes, such as the bourbonlaced Lane cake and Hummingbird cake, a banana-pineapple spice delicacy originating in Jamaica.

Initially, Jessica and Stacey sought to use their culinary chops to offer some things borrowed and some things new to their flourishing community. By pushing the envelope on their menu items, they hope to inspire the Northeast Louisiana community to start seeking culinary adventures in their neck of the woods. “It’s kind of unexpected when you go to a sleepy place. And there’s, you know, a hidden gem that you love to discover. And it surprises you pleasantly,” expresses Jessica, adding, “I want people to feel like this is their restaurant.”

The Walking Pig is located at 139 Plank Road Saint Joseph, LA 71366 and is open Thursday through Saturday between 11 AM and 2 PM, and Friday & Saturday between 5:30 PM and 8 PM. Visit their website https://www. the-walking-pig.com/ and scroll through their Facebook page to learn about their daily specials and seasonal menus.

ACCORDING TO THE U.S. CENTERS for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is the number one cause of accidental death for infants and young children between the ages of 1-4. A child is 17 times more likely to die in water than a car wreck. Overwhelmingly, water near the home poses the most frequent and continued threat for a family. All caregivers are encouraged to be trained in CPR and parents are encouraged to install layers of protection in and around their homes to keep their families safe.

A permanent, four-sided pool fence that encloses the entire pool is a great first step. Fences should be at least 4 feet in height and be equipped with self-closing, self-latching gates. Locks and alarms should also be installed well out of reach of children on all doors and windows leading to the pool. Be sure to also check for any other access points, including the often-overlooked dog doors!

Watching children constantly around the water, no matter their skill level, is absolutely necessary. Designate a responsible adult as the “water watcher” and segment supervision in 15-minute increments. Also, make sure that water watchers verbally acknowledge that they are on duty so that there is no confusion as to who is responsible for watching the child in the pool.

Avoid the use of floatation devices such as puddle jumpers and floaties during swim time. These devices create a false sense of security for the child and zero competence. The device encourages a vertical posture in the water which is not conducive to swimming. Small children do not have the cognitive ability to understand the floatation device is what is keeping them above water, so they will not hesitate to return to the water if given the opportunity. A parent should always be in the water with their child and teach them it’s NOT OK to be in the water without mom or dad. However, a coast guard approved life jacket should always be worn while boating or swimming in open water such as oceans, lakes, rivers, and bayous.

When layers of protection fail, your child’s ability to self-rescue is the only thing that will save his/her life. Your child should be taught how to roll onto their back independently and maintain a back float until rescued. Your child may also learn how to flip over and swim to an exit. These skills are called self-rescue.

Infant Swimming Resource Self-Rescue® lessons are an added layer of protection for families, as the ISR program teaches children 6 months – 6 years old how to save themselves should they find the water alone. ISR Lessons are 1 on 1, 10 minutes per day (Monday - Friday) for 4 - 6 weeks. Babies 6 months to 18 months will learn to roll back and float. Children over 18 months - 6 years will learn the swim-float-swim sequence.

For more information on water safety and to learn more about ISR, please visit www.infantswim.com.

THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN AND Families is seeking family therapists in our Northeast Louisiana location. The positions are available in several of our evidenced-based programs including Functional Family Therapy (FFT,) Functional Family Therapy - Child Welfare (FFT-CW,) and Multisystemic Therapy (MST.) Each of these programs provide evidenced-based counseling services for youth and their families. Our mission is to promote safe, healthy environments for children and families through advocacy, counseling, education, and prevention. The Center for Children and Families has developed and implemented innovative treatment programs that specifically target fractured family relationships.

Our agency is highly respected throughout the community for our excellent standard of service to both providers and clients. At the Center, we are guided by the principles of servant leadership, where the driving force of our actions is not status or power, but serving others as we pursue a common mission. Therapeutic Services has a reputation for terrific outcomes, not just because of the people that choose to work with us, but also because of the support we receive from the community.

When a family feels like giving up, we seek to provide them with the tools and encouragement they need to keep going. When a positive outcome feels impossible, we are able to find a way. We meet families where they are, reminding them that they are not alone.

Likewise, when discouragement comes knocking at the door, we remind ourselves of the countless families who are now thriving because our staff and clinicians have invested in them. When you join The Center for Children and Families, you belong to something bigger. You are a part of a family.

At the Center, we believe that personal growth is just as valuable as the job that we have been hired to do. Through our Huddle series, we explore how we relate to each other and those around us. By developing community through shared meals or taking time out to play, we find that being a part of this agency is more like being a part of a family. Our Core Values of Community, Respect, Integrity, Service, Teamwork, Empowerment, and Excellence are the guiding principles of our organization. We believe that these values are the very foundation for our philosophy, culture, and practices.

Candidates for these positions must hold a Master’s degree in Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapy, or Psychology. Preference is given to candidates who are fully licensed as an LPC or LMFT or provisionally licensed as a PLPC or PLMFT in Louisiana.

These are full-time independent contractor positions. The agency is a National Health Services Corp Approved site, with a federal student loan repayment program available for potentially qualified licensed practitioners.

We are looking for someone with more than just the perfect resume. We are looking for individuals with a passion to serve children and families in our communities. Someone who doesn’t want to do this life-changing work alone. Someone who is ready for the opportunity to develop not only as a clinician, but also as a person.

If you’re a qualified applicant who wants to be the hope for families in Northeast Louisiana, learn how to submit your resume at www.standforhope. org/apply.

ONE OF THE MOST EXCITING EXPERIENCES as a parent is watching your baby’s first tooth come through! It can also be one of the most challenging because, let’s be honest, a teething baby isn’t exactly a happy baby. Regardless, you may be wondering when is the right time to start taking your baby to the dentist? The answer is: as soon as baby’s first tooth comes through or by their first birthday (whichever comes first). You can expect to see tooth #1 between 6 and 12 months and some babies pop their first tooth as early as 3 months old (and in some rare cases before they’re even born). Taking baby to the dentist is extremely important to make sure there aren’t any irregularities in their teething patterns, to start tooth decay prevention, and get expert knowledge on how to keep your child’s smile healthy and adorable.

Scheduling your child’s first appointment is easy at Tuft Pediatric. Just give us a call at (318) 410-0044 and our support staff will direct you through the entire process of becoming a new patient. When scheduling an appointment, think about what would be easiest and most convenient for you and your baby. Consider scheduling when your baby is usually in a good mood and not during nap time. Many of our parents find the best time is in the morning., which will allow your visit to go much smoother.

Here at Tuft Pediatric, while your child is under two, you’ll be shown into our baby exam room. Here you can hold your baby while Dr. Tuft examines them instead of them sitting on the big kid dental chair. Dr. Tuft will likely examine their gums, teeth, and check for correct orientation, cavities, or any irregularities. He will give you tips on how to maintain your child’s dental hygiene. He may apply fluoride varnish to their teeth to keep them nice and strong, despite our area’s lack of fluoridated water. Please feel free to ask Dr. Tuft any questions. For example, “How should I brush my baby’s teeth?” “When should I start weaning them off of their pacifier?” “How can I safely relieve their teething pain?” We strive to make our office a safe space for you to ask questions and get support. Your child’s safety and happiness is always our priority!

We can’t wait to hear from you and meet your little one!

Tuft Pediatric Dentistry www.tuftpediatricdentistry.com (318) 410-0044

WHO WOULD YOU CONSIDER A LOCAL fashionista? HARTFORSTYLE is certainly devoted to following the vintage fashion of the day. She shares her love of fashion and style with each vintage piece she carries. This just means there’s more chance to find a style that resonates with you. Not everyones personal style is the same but can be inspired by pieces from our vintage collection. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when choosing the outfit of the day but at HARTFORSTYLE there are timeless pieces for all ages and will have you crushing on all of their outfits and ways she styles her looks and photos. From serious and chic to fun and feminine, be prepared for some closet eye candy.

It’s not hard to see why HARTFORSTYLE has such following on social media - the stylish range of tasteful vintage wear would be a challenge not to become obsessed with. With our mission to inspire individual style with classic vintage wear, you are sure to find what you are looking for in the amazing collection we have on hand.

Our retro pieces are perfect for mixing and matching. There are vintage inspired dresses with a modern twist, fun whimsical prints that anyone would love and skirts, blouses or graphic tees that you can get many different uses out of. Our pieces are timeless and are for any vintage loving guy or girl on any budget.

We are glad to be a part of Mercantile Monroe, located in the heart of Downtown Monroe. You can also follow us on all social media outlets for our news, updates and fashion thrifts and shop with us online at www.hartforstyle.com.

HARTFORSTYLE is a second-hand online thrift business that focuses on the importance of repurposing clothing and preserving vintage fashion. 19-year-old West Monroe native Hartley Waldrop is the owner and curator of this business. Recently launching her new website, Hartley’s goal is that everyone would find their “heart” for style and learn to love vintage and unique fashion just as much as she does. Since starting this business when she was just 16 years old, HARTFORSTYLE has gained a following and a name for itself. Get to know Hartley and all that her business is about!

HARTFORSTYLE Facebook: @hartforstyle Instagram: @hartforstyle www.hartforstyle.com now located inside Mercantile Monroe

SPRING FLING article and illustration by LOU DAVENPORT

By the time this issue goes to print, it will be one of my favorite times of the year and spring will finally be here! I’ve been watching for signs of spring since January, but, “Old Man Winter” just wouldn’t go away! I guess I shouldn’t complain though. Last year, we had snow and ice. Luckily for us, this winter has been fairly mild, but, as we all know, we usually have one last “cold snap” before we really get into spring, and tonight, the weather says rain mixed with snow...and it actually snowed! It was pretty to watch, but I was thankful that is was just enough to “dust the ground.”

When I was growing up, I could not wait to just be outside all the time. I lived in a neighborhood full of kids that were around my age, so, we were riding our bikes, making mud pies, and generally having a great time. My first memory of spring was the arrival of my Mother’s tiny daffodils that she had planted along the top of the drainage ditch in front of our house. They were so pretty and I would pick countless little bouquets of them. My mom showed me how to put a little food coloring in the water that I put them in, and they would actually get a new color around the edges of the little flowers!

My mother and grandmother loved working in the yard, and the last time I went by the house that I grew up in, there were still some of those shrubs, namely a “Spirea,” (or “Bridal Wreath”) as it was called back then, a Forsythia and a Flowering quince. I didn’t pick any of those Flowering quince though, after learning the hard way, because they have thorns!

Later on in the year, they would plant annuals in the front flower bed. I have several pictures of those flowers, and although I don’t remember picking any of them, there were tons of Bachelor Buttons, Zinnias, and one of my mother’s favorites, Impatients, (otherwise known as “Touch-me-nots”). There were Nandinas behind them, and Lirope bordering the beds. Needless to say, our yard was very beautiful. My first memory of learning about hummingbirds was when one flew into the large picture window in our living room. My mother rushed out to save it, but, luckily, it had recovered and flown away. I remember having all kinds of questions about them, and she got out one of our “World Book” encyclopedias, and we learned all we could about those fascinating little creatures. To this day, I love those little amazing birds. I have already bought a brand new hummingbird feeder, and am anxiously awaiting their arrival. If all goes as planned, hopefully they’ll start coming back around by March 15th!

I guess I got my love of plants, birds, and just the general outdoors from my mother and grandmother. My grandmother had a bedroom that she fully dedicated to all of her houseplants, although she called them “her flowers!” When she’d go to visit my other aunts, I was put in charge of watering all of those “flowers” of hers. It’s funny, I, too, have a living room full of houseplants now! I guess I learned, and got my love for them, honestly.

Although, I don’t have a big yard anymore, I do have a small patio. Out there, I have several plants that I have “nursed” through the winter. One is my red honeysuckle, that I thought had died from all the ice last year. Determined to keep them going as best I could, I cut it back, kept it pampered, and now, it’s doing great, and beginning to climb up the small fence that I have. My ferns, a “Kimberly Queen,” and an Asparagus fern are doing great! Now that there’s been a bit of warmer weather, I can once again sit out there with them, and “watch” the world go by.

When I lived in Vicksburg, my oldest daughter and son had to make wildflower collections in one of their classes. Of course, I helped them, and I ended up getting hooked! I found so many beautiful wildflowers over there, and I did dig up a “Jack in The Pulpit,” that I planted on the shady side of our house. By the time I moved many years later, it was over a foot high. I so hope the people who bought my house knew what it was, and that is now multiplying and maybe, just maybe, those little “Jack Babies” have filled up the whole side bed.

Where I found this “Jack in the Pulpit,” was also teeming with other plants that were considered endangered species, such as “trillium,” “Golden Dragons,” and several other exotic species. They grew in a shady, old forest area and, again, I hope they are still there. It is sad to say, but most of those areas are quickly disappearing. There were other less than exotic species of wildflowers that I found, such as “Toadflax,” “Wild Geranium,” “Blue Eyed Grass,” and “Goats Beard.” They are so beautiful, and if you don’t look closely, you just might miss them. Right now, I have several “Blue Eyed Grass” plants out by the fence...another sign that I know spring is right around the corner!

Along the highways, you can spot “Evening Primrose,” “Queen Anne’s Lace,” and maybe, just maybe, the “Crimson and Red Clover” that are beginning to make their appearances. It is about to be an explosion of color, and I cannot wait! Sometimes, it IS just the little things that make me happy.

Even though we’ve had some snow, and our usual all-seasonsin-one-day kind of weather, I have been riding around looking for the “signs of Spring.” Just the other day, I saw several beautiful Azaleas bursting into bloom. There were Redbud trees just beginning to open, and I also spied with my little eye a gorgeous yellow Jasmine climbing along someone’s fence. At the Beidenharn, yellow tulips were beginning to bloom, and I am sure when I ride by again, there will be many others!

The “signs of spring” are beginning to pop up all around us, almost as if nature is hitting a reset button, and ready to revive and reinvigorate everything around us. I, myself, am looking forward to all the pops of color that are starting to emerge, sprouts that are beginning to blossom, the many different songs of birds coming and going, the days becoming longer, and the overall feeling of happiness that spring always brings me. Let’s celebrate it!

What signs of spring have you witnessed?

“WITH THE HIGH COST OF FUEL AND FOOD, WE KNOW that many of our neighbors are facing tough times again,” said Jean Toth, Food Bank Executive Director.

We hear their stories every day: the parents skipping meals to save money, the retired widow choosing between food or medicine, or the children who rely on school meals to be fed. However, because of the generous community support of the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana, our neighbors are not without hope.

Our organization has hosted drive-thru food distributions since the beginning of 2020 as a response to the pandemic and other disasters. During the coming months, the Food Bank will host 17 mobile food distributions across the region to help provide food to our neighbors experiencing hunger.

“We hope the food will help families who are struggling to purchase groceries, and will help to provide a peace of mind,” said Toth.

The Food Bank is partnering with local municipalities and organizations to host drive-thru food distributions in Madison, Tensas, Jackson, West Carroll, Morehouse, Richland, Union, Caldwell, and Lincoln Parishes. Residents attending a distribution will receive groceries such as proteins, dairy, and fresh produce, along with a 30-pound box of shelf stable food items.

“The money I don’t use for food, I can use it to pay bills like the light bill,” said Kacey, Food Bank client.

Kacey lives in Chatham, Louisiana, with his wife and four grandchildren. Kacey told us his grandchildren enjoy the groceries they receive from the Food Bank, especially when he makes biscuits for them before school in the morning.

“There’s a lot of nutritious foods, and our kids look forward to them,” he said.

If you’re interested in helping, donations are needed. Every $1 helps provide about 3 meals. The Food Bank is also in need of volunteers. If you or your organization would like to volunteer with us, please call 318-322-3567 or visit foodbanknela.org/volunteer.

“It’s amazing what our community can do when we come together. Thank you to all who help,” said Sarah Hoffman, Food Bank Director of Development.

To see a full list of area food distributions, please visit foodbanknela. org/find-food.

The Food Bank is the largest hunger-relief organization in Northeast Louisiana, providing over 7 million pounds of food annually to those facing hunger in the 12-parish region. This impact is made possible through the generosity of our supporters, volunteers, food donors and community distribution partners. At the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana, we believe no one should go hungry.

“SKIN IS NATURALLY BUILT FOR repair. When bombarded by environmental assaults, the skin must focus on neutralizing oxidate damage which limits its capacity for reparative functions. Daily use of pure Vitamin C antioxidants, when properly formulated to penetrate the skin, protects against damage and enhances self repair to reduce signs of aging.” - Sheldon Pinnell, M.D.

Research shoes that aging is the result of more than just years on the calender. Exposure to environmental elements such as sunlight, smoke, and air pollution causes signs of premature aging in skin. Not only does this lead to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, blemish, and discoloration, it can lead to more serious conditions. Studies prove antioxidants effectively neutralize chemical reactions generated by exposure to environmental assaults.

SkinCeuticals was founded on the academic research of Dr. Sheldon Pinnell, who established and patented the first formulation parameters required for Vitamin C absorption and efficacy in the skin. He and the SkinCeuticals research team helped pioneer the advent of cosmeceuticals with he development of the original topical Vitamin C formula.

These parameters came to be known as the Duke Parameters, the gold standard for effective delivery of Vitamin C to the skin.

SkinCeuticals has developed a full menu of high-potency formulas designed to provide the most advanced protection from environmental damage for all skin types and concerns. Some of Spa Nouvelle’s favorites include: AOX Eye Gel - an innovative serum-in-gel Vitamin C combination antioxidant treatment created specifically for delicate skin around the eyes. C E Ferulic - an award-winning Vitamin C combination antioxidant serum proven to deliver advanced environmental protection agains atmospheric skin aging. Silymarin CF - a powerful Vitamin C antioxidant for oily and blemish-prone skin that provides advanced environmental protection and helps prevent oil oxidation that may lead to breakouts. C + AHA - a two-in-one Vitamin C antioxidant and exfoliating serum that protects skin from free radical damage. Phloretin CF - a synergistic Vitamin C combination antioxidant that provides broad-range environment protection against damaging free radicals caused by UVA/UVB rays and pollution. Serum 10 AOX+ and 20 AOX+ - fast absorbing Vitamin C combination antioxidants serums that help protect skin from free radicals and defend against environmental damage.

If you’re looking to protect your skin from free radicals, prevent early aging and reduce lines and wrinkles, the staff at Spa Nouvelle will guide you toward a skin regimen perfectly suited for your needs. Schedule your consultation with Drew Farr or Wendy Newsom, each have decades of experience helping women and men put their best faces forward. Spa Nouvelle is located at 1705 Lamy Lane in Monroe. Call 318.816.4949 or visit their website for a full list of aesthetic services and massage packages.

THE CITIES OF MONROE AND WEST MONROE ARE banding together to bring technology opportunities to the Twin Cities. Both municipalities have entered into an agreement with Technology for Rural America (TFRA) that will help bring enhanced broadband infrastructure and the availability of significantly better broadband services to residences, businesses, government, and institutions like schools, libraries, and healthcare providers. The Twin Cities’ relationship with TFRA will help both cities find the best way to move forward amidst so many different funding opportunities and identify next steps for both cities’ priorities.

Mayors Friday Ellis and Staci Mitchell recognize that the availability of robust broadband is more critical than ever to public health, education, healthcare, and a thriving community. “Access to reliable broadband is no longer a luxury but a necessity to recruit businesses and people to the Twin Cities and keep us moving forward,” said West Monroe Mayor Staci Mitchell.

More than 42 million Americans lack broadband access, including rural communities. TFRA is seeking to expand rural broadband access. “Access to high speed internet is not only a workforce issue, but an equity issue,” says Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis. The cities also recognize there are significant state and federal funding sources available in the near future to assist both private broadband service providers and public entities like the cities. The American Rescue Plan Act earmarked $350 billion for a variety of services for state and local agencies, including expanded broadband access. Consulting with experts in the field of broadband will allow both Monroe and West Monroe to improve and deploy new infrastructure, aid affordability, and increase digital literacy that will improve the quality of life for citizens and businesses. Furthermore, working with experts like TFRA, gives both cities the opportunity to leverage established relationships and connections from across the country.

“We view widespread access to high-speed internet services as a critical enabler for improving Education, Telehealth, online commerce and attracting businesses and jobs to our region. We believe the cities of Monroe and West Monroe are taking a leadership role in significantly transforming their communities by strategically focusing on, and planning for, a robust broadband future for their residents and businesses. We look forward to working with them in this important endeavor.” said Glen Post, TFRA CEO and Chairman.

Next steps include completing and evaluating mapping data to determine specific broadband needs.

BY J. PRESTON PARRY, MD, MPH

“WHAT IF IT’S ME?” IS THE COMMON nagging thought at the back of the mind when trying to conceive. More specifically, it is common to worry if one’s eggs have gone from the sunny side to somehow having been poached. As a society, we tend to focus on the ovaries, when actually the uterus and Fallopian tubes can be just as relevant. However, the eggs absolutely matter and as we age, they are more likely to be the driving force. For highly fertile women (averaging 8 children) not using contraception, half will conceive for the last time at 40 to deliver by 41. This makes 40 a much more concerning cutoff than 35, but even at 35 women are six times more likely to have subfertility relative to 25 (30% vs 5%).

If you are at a point where you want to conceive but haven’t, it is easier to get answers and treatment than to worry. For answers, many turn to a blood test called “FSH” which is an abbreviation for follicle stimulating hormone. It measures how hard the brain has to work to convince the ovaries to make eggs (“oocytes”). AMH has become the gold standard blood test, and is tied for accuracy with ultrasound for antral follicle count. I prefer antral follicle count (AFC), as it can give an immediate result and pelvic imaging can give perspective for uterine and tubal factors, which can matter just as much as the ovaries. When combining one’s age with either AMH or AFC, more than 95% of the time women can have a reasonable sense of how their ovarian clock is ticking, even though quantity doesn’t always predict quality.

The most common intervention for offsetting egg issues is to increase the number available through medication such as clomiphene or letrozole. This is particularly powerful if not normally releasing eggs (such as through stress or PCOS)—if going from zero eggs to one, that is a much larger boost than going from one to two. However, if egg issues are not the driving cause, there isn’t as much benefit as we would think from pills by themselves. We reflexively think to treat fertility with clomiphene, but if a 30-yearold woman trying to conceive for 18 months has 2% monthly chances, how much is a second egg truly going to improve those odds if changing nothing else? Success has to be combined with safety. Ultrasound monitoring of oral fertility medications to confirm how many eggs are developing can help reduce the risk of a reality show, even though the body won’t always read the book.

Oral medication combined with insemination is an economical route to conception for many, but the best control over eggs is through IVF (in vitro fertilization). This allows multiple eggs to be obtained all at once, to see how well sperm fertilize them, and even lets one test the DNA to see if the embryo is healthy or if it is likely to miscarry. Moreover, IVF allows freezing of eggs or embryos (fertilized eggs), which can help if postponing fertility for reasons ranging from career to chemotherapy. The ultimate solution to finding eggs is to have someone else do it for you. At Positive Steps Fertility, we can quickly and affordably help you understand your path to becoming a parent. Getting results often puts people in a better place—if normal, this is reassuring and if there is a problem, this can be hard (though most issues can be improved), but it is better than struggling for years without knowing. If you’re wondering about your own eggs this Easter, let us help—we’re “eggsperts” in family building!

IF WE HAVEN’T MET, I’M COURTNEY PHILLIPS RILEY and I am so happy you have found my business! I am the owner and face of Traveling Chic Boutique-Louisiana. After graduating from Louisiana Tech University in 2017 with a degree in fashion merchandising and a minor in marketing, I decided that I wanted to follow in my dad’s footsteps and become a business owner. My mom, Kerri Phillips, hopped on board as she is passionate about fashion and travel as much as I am. In fact, I can confidently say “I got it from my momma!”

After doing research, I found a company called Traveling Chic Boutique in North Carolina that allowed me to own a franchise! A mobile boutique allowed me to combine two areas I love (shopping and travel), plus I did not want to have a storefront. Now this is where the star of the team comes into the mix…my 1972 Airstream Globetrotter, Patsy, that houses my boutique. Finding new vendors and supporting other small businesses are something we strive to do for our customers as we travel Louisiana, Arkansas, and Texas. I want TCB to be known as a boutique that fits your look and budget regardless of your age. Because really age is just a number. When you shop with Traveling Chic Boutique-Louisiana, we promise you will find something new every time.

You can find us at various events on most weekends. Follow us on social media to see where we are headed next! We also specialize in hosting trunk shows at your house, office, or event. We will set up a selection of clothing, jewelry, and more to let your friends, family, and colleagues shop until you drop! If you host the trunk show, you can choose to receive a percentage of the total sales in a TCB gift card or we will donate the percentage to your favorite local charity!

Don’t want to host a trunk show or can’t make it to an upcoming even? That’s ok, you can schedule a private shopping session at a time that is convenient to you. We also have an online storefront and offer local delivery to Monroe, West Monroe, and Ruston!

A common question I get is, “When are you opening a storefront?” The answer (for now) is, probably never! My true passion is found in getting out there and meeting new people, while maintaining relationships with my loyal customers back home. So for now, my storefront is Patsy, and my location is where ever we are headed to next!

My customers who have followed me for a while, know me from Woodstock Home and Gift. I have worked there part time over the last five years, and every time I try to leave they find a way to reel me back in. And for good reason! I love the environment at Woodstock and I will continue to display some of my items there, and host popups with Christy at her store.

Website: www.shoptcbwm.com Facebook: Traveling Chic Boutique Louisiana or join our VIP group: Traveling Chic Boutique-Louisiana Instagram: @tcb_louisiana Email: courtney@travelingchicboutique.com

CELEBRATE THIS SEASON OF REBIRTH WITH FRIENDS, food, and fun! Join us every Wednesday in April for the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council’s noontime outdoor Brown Bag Concerts Series. Come on down to the lush green Palace Park at 220 DeSiard Street (beside the old Palace Dept. Store location), our venue for 2022’s first Brown Bag Series (public parking at 4th and DeSiard). In case of rain, we’ll move indoors to the old Palace Dept. store, next door to the park.

Bring your lunch or just grab a $5 sack lunch on site from Newk’s Eatery including their famous tea. Mulhearn’s will again provide free cookies to make the events extra sweet. Water and lemonade will also be available. Picnic blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged! Performances are free, thanks to our sponsors Mulhearn’s, Newk’s Eatery, The Palace, and the City of Monroe. Here’s who will be on stage:

April 6 - Joel Jordan - We kick off the Series with full-time musician and songwriter Joel Jordan (who also performs under the stage name The Reverend Joel David). Performing with Astro Motel, Jig the Alien, and as a solo act, Joel’s been all over the South and credits rock ‘n’ roll, the blues, and the Holy Ghost for saving his life. Come hear Joel’s musical expression of his soul-deep love of rock n’ blues as we get the Series underway. (Portions of bio courtesy strausstc.com) April 13 - Hal Mayfield - We hit our stride with this prolific young performer who lives to “play for people, make albums, and write better songs.” Hal’s inspirations are Woody Guthrie, Lead Belly, and Bob Dylan along with the sounds of groups like Old Crow Medicine Show and Nickel Creek. Hal has several albums to his credit already with performing experience near and far. Come join us as we bask in the tunes and sunshine down at the park.

April 20 - Bethany Raybourn - Come get a taste of the folksyflavored roots Americana style of this local singer-songwriter in this third outing of this spring’s Series. Bethany got her start singing in church, and her musical talent has blossomed forth from there, shaped by folksy/country influences like Lucinda Williams and Neko Case. Come relax in the park and listen to this multi-instrumentalist perform her original tunes and some folksy favorites. as we head into the Series home stretch.

April 27 - Anita Prophet and Rita Spillers - This duo’s talent moves the soul! Alice sings many different styles of music from Patsy Cline and Linda Ronstadt to inspirationals, standards and oldies. She has written and recorded a CD of Christian music, performed in Branson and onstage at the Dove Awards among many stage, TV, and radio appearances. Today she’s joined by local favorite pianist Rita Spillers. Rita played for Warehouse Restaurant guests for 25 years plus is a regular at many local churches and special events. With several CDs of her work to her credit, she imbues her performance with her love of her instrument and song. Today the duo’s music will lift your heart as we close out the Series and head into the Spring.

For more information or to confirm the show will go on in case of rain, call the Arts Council office at 397.6717 or 397.6754. Visit the Arts Council online at www.nelaarts.com, find us on Facebook or Instagram @region8arts!