HOLIDAY DRESSING

HAS IT BEEN A WHILE SINCE YOU visited WaterView Casino & Hotel in Vicksburg? We’re going strong after five years, though you may remember us by a different name. We get it. But... if there’s anything we’ve learned over the past couple of years, it is that everything changes. At WaterView, we have worked hard to make the right things change, so you can be comfortable visiting us!

Our gaming floor literally glows with all the hottest new slot games and brand-new electronic table games. Starting right at the front entrance all the way down to the casino stage, the view is hot! And everywhere you look, there is hand sanitizer and lots of cool wipes so you can be comfortable knowing that every surface is clean. Our team is always on the move as well, keeping your view safe!

If you have not yet seen our newly remodeled hotel lobby, prepare to be wowed! As we continue to upgrade your hotel experience, we remain open for business. Many of our suites feature jetted tubs and balconies with expansive views of the Mighty Mississippi River. Want a preview? Visit our website at www.waterviewcasino.com to check out the Live Stream from our two cameras overlooking the river 24/7 via EarthCam.

Our Blue Plate Special has just won Best of the Best in Vicksburg! Why? All your homecooked favorites are piled high! (Maybe bring a friend.) Feeling more like a sit-down dinner? Visit SandBar Steaks & Seafood Thursday through Sunday nights for an amazing steak, some tasty ribs, or perfectly prepared salmon. Order an adult beverage, appetizer, and dessert to round out your meal.

While there is a lot that has changed at WaterView, one thing we are proud to say has not changed is our amazing team members! The team at WaterView is made up of many people who have worked at our casino for years and years. Obviously, people come and go, and we are always looking for friendly faces to join our team. Here at WaterView, we are proud to have a large number of team members who have been here since day one!

Relax, play, eat, and enjoy your visit to WaterView Casino & Hotel in historic Vicksburg, MS. Come see what’s new. And with 2022 just around the corner, we have more great upgrades in store for you. Be sure to get your MYEDGE card and start earning FreePlay, free food, free rooms, gifts, promotions and more. We simply cannot wait to show you what we’ve done with the place!

THE ANTICIPATION THAT HAS spanned months is now building into more excitement as the Phase II assisted living and memory care apartment buildings are about to open on the city block campus of The Gardens at Georgia Tucker in north Monroe’s Garden District. Reservations have been increasing each month leading up to this time, and future residents are looking forward to the move-in.

Everything that has made the original facility desirable continues into this next phase, plus even more amenities are being added. Among the new features is a fitness area where exercise routines will be led by local NextLevel Health & Fitness, and each participant will have a unique nutritional and exercise plan for optimal health and well-being.

Enhancing day-to-day living will be a new dining area with a gourmet chef design kitchen where all meals of the day will be prepared and served for both Phase I and Phase II assisted living residents. Memory Care apartments will have an exclusive dining area that will be conducive to residents’ comfort and security. New amenities also extend to the exterior grounds where an inner courtyard will include areas for walking and relaxing for residents and guests surrounded by foliage that will be beautiful this coming spring season.

Popular shared endeavors such as musical entertainment, movies & games, birthday parties, themed events, church activities, and more will continue in the gracious atrium gathering space in the original building. There will also be shopping excursions, and complimentary transportation is provided for medical visits.

There are one-bedroom & two-bedroom assisted living apartments in both Phase I and Phase II buildings, as well as one-bedroom apartments in the Phase II Memory Care building. The Memory Care services include all the expected amenities along with an individualized plan of care to maximize quality of life for your loved one. Full accreditation and a certified staff ensure proper attention for residents in this building.

The unparalleled comfort, convenience, and amenities of The Gardens At Georgia Tucker assure residents of an environment that can truly be called home. You can hear from a few of the residents expressing their contentment when you visit GeorgiaTucker. com to view testimonial videos and comments.

For the best in gracious assisted living, take a closer look at The Gardens at Georgia Tucker. Reservations and lease deposits are being accepted now for the Phase II assisted living and memory care apartments. Please call 318-538-0040 to schedule a tour appointment. The administration staff will be pleased to show you around, answer any questions, and provide leasing information for you or for a loved one. Visit GeorgiaTucker.com for more details.

THE COOL FALL BREEZE IS FINALLY HERE and there’s no better place to enjoy it than along the banks of the Ouachita River. The best views are from the patio of Miro’s located in the heart of downtown Monroe and the food is even better. The locally owned restaurant pays homage to the Endom Bridge and train track, just steps away from the patio. The menu features the River Burger, the Morning Barge, the Conductor, and the Caboose, just to name a few. You even get a $1 Fireball shot when the train comes by!

In recent months, Miro’s has expanded their menu and added even more delicious options. The homemade fried cheese may look and taste familiar as it’s the same recipe as Sammy’s in Baton Rouge. Owner Roy Arthur has teamed up with Sammy Nagem of Sammy’s Bar and Grill to provide some favorites from the former restaurant. They have also added thin sliced, deep fried zucchini, lightly battered and served with ranch or marinara sauce. Another new menu item is the shrimp skewers, jumbo bacon-wrapped shrimp, jalapeno cream cheese, basil and served with sriracha glaze. Fried oysters have made it on the menu as well, and they have been very popular!

Miro’s offers a daily lunch special, with the perfect amount of food to get you full and served quickly to get you right back to the office. On Tuesday’s, it’s spaghetti and meatballs, Wednesday’s is hamburger steak served with mashed potatoes and green beans, Thursday’s is chicken parmesan over pasta and Friday’s, you can choose from fried catfish served with fries. All lunch specials come with a drink for just $10.99.

The bar area at Miro’s is always a good time, perfect for unwinding and enjoying happy hour. Miro’s bartenders serve up a variety of mules, frozen drinks and fruit concoctions. The drink menu features the Miro’s Mary, their version of a Bloody Mary; four variations of mules; a spicy margarita and the Velvet Hammer, made with Tito’s vodka and fruit flavors, just to name a few. The Sunday brunch is one of the best in town. Not only is the menu delicious, there is plenty of hair of the dog options, as well as drink towers filled with your favorite beverage. Brunch is served on Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

It is time to book your holiday parties and Miro’s has plenty of space to host your friends, family or co-workers. There is a large room in the front of the restaurant that could seat a group in a private setting. Miro’s also offers catering for local offices, as well as off-site events like parties, weddings and receptions.

Miro’s is proud to be a part of the Northeast Louisiana community. They look for opportunities to give back whenever they can. They have hosted a fundraiser for St. Vincent de Paul Community Pharmacy, with a percentage of all food and drink purchases for a day benefiting the non-profit organization. Miro’s is proud to support local schools and high school teams including ULM as well as other local non-profit organizations. During this month and time of thanksgiving, Miro’s is grateful to be a part of this community and would like to say thank you to their loyal customers over the past 3 years!

SPA NOUVELLE HAS BEEN ONE OF THE LEADING SPA’S in northeast Louisiana for over 10 years! Partners Mary Beth Dickerson, Ana Lopez Hale, Drew Farr and Wendy Newson all have a passion for health and beauty. With an attentive approach to relaxation and skincare health, it’s no surprise that the staff of Spa Nouvelle has won top prizes in the BayouLife BayouBuzz Awards since it’s inception. Ward off the stress of your crazy life with one of the many spa services offered at Spa Nouvelle: massages, facials, waxing, microdermabrasion, dermaplanning, Oxygen Hydro facials, airbrush tanning, chemical peels and SkinCeuticals products. Looking for the perfect gift for any occasion? Spa Nouvelle offers gift certificates to use with any of their services.

Close your eyes. Imagine soothing music playing in a calm, relaxing atmosphere that allows you to melt away and leave everything behind. Pleasant aromas fill the space and an expertly trained staff is there to pamper you in a state-of-the-art facility with every convenience and amenity available. If this seems like a dream, wake up, it’s a reality at Spa Nouvelle. With Spa Nouvelle, you are sure to experience an all-encompassing spa experience like none other offered in Northeast Louisiana.

Our massage therapist will talk to you in detail about your needs and customize your massage just for you. It doesn’t get much better than that and our massage therapist are A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! The Signature Massage – our signature massage is a spa favorite with 80 minutes of body work with essential oils ( sounds like heaven doesn’t it?) Deep Tissue Massage – a wonderful remedy for those tired muscles from all those pre-wedding workouts.

Skincare is also an important subject that you should start investing in and Spa Nouvelle has just what you need. Spa Nouvelle carries SkinCeutical products for all of your skin care needs. SkinCeuticals products help to improve skin health. They are committed to leading the skincare industry in terms of research and innovation, and they promise to provide advanced skincare backed by science. Their skincare philosophy centers on three main pillars: Prevent. Protect. Correct. These principles work synergistically to provide the healthiest skin possible, and optimal anti-aging results. Skin care is essential to maintaining the young radiant look that everyone strives to keep.

Call them at 318.816.4949, visit the website, or find them on Facebook and Instagram to book your appointment today.

THE

GINGERBREAD

WREATH

Gather your family and friends for a fun afternoon making gingerbread for this festive, edible wreath. We recycled last year’s recipe from Heather Land to create this merry masterpiece.

Recipe by HEATHER LAND Photo by KELLY MOORE CLARK

Make one or more days in advance and allow house pieces to dry out for sturdier construction. Substitute equal parts of dairy butter and all purpose flour. Use half for snowflakes and half for cookies. The gluten free recipe makes for a lighter, less dense cookie.

2 sticks butter 1 cup dark brown sugar 1/2 cup molasses 2 TBSP cinnamon 2 TBSP ground ginger 3 tsp ground cloves 2 tsp baking soda 4 cups all-purpose flour {GF or Wheat} 2 TBSP water

1 lb powdered sugar (sifted if lumpy) 2 egg whites 1 tsp almond or vanilla extract Should be around the consistency of Elmer’s glue - a little thick but runny enough to pass through the tip of small squeeze bottle or piping bag.

In a large mixing bowl, cream all ingredients (except flour) until smooth. Blend in flour and water to make a dough that resembles play dough - not sticky. CHILL FOR 30 MINUTES. The dough, in the fridge and you, by the fire. Lightly flour a smooth surface and roll out dough to about 1/4” thickness Use a snowflake cookie cutter to cut out the shapes.

Bake on parchment lined baking sheet for 10-15 minutes - careful not to let edges burn. {*Bake cookies 8-10 minutes} Cool on baking sheet (let snowflakes sit out and dry overnight). Glue snowflake cookies together (two sets of hands works best) and hold them until they stick. Allow them to sit and dry for a bit. Repeat in a circular format until you complete the wreath. This may take a few trys. This is the fun part. Enjoy the process. If all else fails, hot glue it!

Allow your “glue” to dry while you ice cookies or have an intermission dance party. Use your glue to decorate and make your masterpiece. The more, the merrier. In every way. A gingerbread wreath will last for months on your open countertop. Eat only at your discretion.

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, LET YOUR furry friends have a vacation, too. From boarding options that let your pet enjoy their days without you in luxury, to our grooming menu that offers spa retreats for your furry friends, we have multiple services to keep your best animal friends happy. Have to work late to make holiday deadlines, or just need a day to get your home ready for guests? Just drop off your pets for a fun day at doggy day care.

BOARDING Taking a holiday vacation? Don’t leave your pets out andgive them a vacation at Sit, Stay and Play! They will enjoy plush amenities and fun in the yard during daycare. We have condo life available for our cats too! Felines will enjoy their time staying in our condos where they can play all day and perch in our windows. They will have the opportunity to have fun and run around in our cat centered room! In addition, they will receive their daily afternoon tuna treat!

Canines have numerous options for accommodations at Sit, Stay and Play! Check out our various style of accommodations. All include plush bedding, with daily turndown service and a happy treat hour during the day. Furry friends will enjoy sumptuous dining during their stay with us. Your pets will love the one of kind service they receive at Sit, Stay and Play.

GROOMING Pamper your pet! Sit, Stay & Play offers full-service grooming by appointment only. Grooming can take extended time and pets are welcome to play in our daycare until their grooming appointment if requested by the owner.

• Soothing Bath • Relaxing Massage • Trim-Bottom, feet and Face • Mani and Pedi (No Paint) • Anal Glands Expressed • Bow/Bandanna • Refreshing Spritz

• Full Cut • Soothing Bath • Relaxing Massage • Mani and Pedi (No Paint) • Ears Cleaned • Anal Glands Expressed • Bandanna/Bow • Refreshing Spritz

DAY CARE The best play your pup will get today. During the day, let your dog be a dog at Sit, Stay and Play! We will show your furry friends love and attention throughout the day and they will come home as one tired and happy PUP. Participating in daycare will help eliminate the feeling of loneliness and boredom while you are away. Canines participating in our program will enjoy many events throughout the day with their new friends!

Make sure to mark your calendar for our upcoming events: December 7th - Grinchmas December 15th - Great Christmas Giveaway (Spin the Wheel) December 22nd - Puppy Pics with Santa

HOLIDAY SURVEYS SHOW ALMOST 90% of women and men want either gift certificates or gift cards for Christmas. Let Professional Laser Center make this year’s shopping easy for you. Give a gift that can reverse aging and restore wellness. This month, we celebrate our 18th year in business. Since that time, Professional Laser Center has grown into more than just a laser center. Integrative Medicine, which integrates natural medicines with traditional ones, has seen tremendous success at our business over the last decade. This includes bio-identical hormone replacement, and sexual wellness and rejuvenation. Restoring the exact hormones we made in our youth can be life-changing for both men and women. This can be achieved with pellets inserted just under the skin, or with creams, gels, troches, shots, etc. Beginning January first, we will bring IV Nutrient Infusion into our practice. Some specific benefits of this procedure include improved immune function, increased energy, less stress and anxiety, better sleep, enhanced mood, and weight loss, which coincides with our new Medical Weight Loss program.

Botox is the number one choice for treatment of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes and forehead. Injections of Filler, such as Restylane or Revanesse Versa, can plump the lips, cheeks, nasolabial folds and marionette lines of the aging face. If aging or weight loss has caused your skin to sag...especially around the knees, arms, stomach, butt, face or neck, a PDO Thread Lift is a perfect choice. Thread lifts help stimulate collagen production, resulting in more youthful-looking skin. The threads pull the skin taut, eliminating wrinkles and giving an overall smoother appearance. There is little to no downtime, the results are immediate, and they can last up to 18 months.

If too much sun damage is a problem, Intense Pulsed Light can take years off the appearance of the skin by removing unsightly pigment, brown spots, facial spider veins and Rosacea in less than three weeks. Laser Hair Removal can permanently remove unwanted hair on the face or body, in as little as eight months. Dermapen Microneedling induces the production of new collagen through the delivery of tiny needles into the skin. You can expect a tighter and fuller appearance to the skin, as well as better texture, especially for those who suffer from scarring. We incorporate new technology that optimizes this procedure. AnteAGE MD serum can be microneedled into the skin and hair to restore their youthful states. Plus, AnteAGE MD also offers a complete skin care line, a highly requested product during Christmas. Your gift card can open the door to these options and gift sets.

To celebrate the Christmas season, we are having a Holiday Open House - Tuesday, December 14th from 4 until 7. We invite all of our wonderful clients and future clients to join us for some Christmas cheer, hors d’oeuvres and awesome door prizes. Plus, you’ll get a chance to meet our new Nurse Practitioner, Elizabeth Hoskins, and tour our facility, including our beautiful, IV Nutrient Infusion office.

Make this Christmas magical by giving a unique gift or gift certificate from Professional Laser Center.

For a list of all of our procedures, visit our website www.professsionallaser.com.

BY GLENN MIERS

HOLIDAY SHOPPING IN TH E south has become as much of an event as the holiday itself, it seems. It takes strategy, planning and careful execution to get it all done. One can check off a lot on their list at Simmons Sporting Goods in Bastrop, LA. For more than 38 years Simmons has been a staple for outdoorsmen, sportsmen and just good ole boys to come find all they needed to pursue their favorite game. Like all things over time, Simmons has evolved. They now have over 80,000 square feet of retail space covering everything in those same expected categories, but in recent years, they’ve developed a softer side. Right from the moment they enter the store, shoppers are greeted with an array of casual offerings for women in the Duck Duck Goose Boutique. The décor has been updated, and although walls and displays are still true to its roots with the more rustic appeal, there is no doubt ladies are the focus. Many of their female patrons only need to see the front end of the store for brands like Patagonia, The North Face, Southern Shirt, Dylan, Columbia, Old Row, Banded, and Hey Dude. Patrons of the boutique are amazed at the elegant dresses, tops, and of course the trendy warmer duds that dawn in the fall. They even have the cutest hats, jewelry and definitely boots and shoes for the best look in a casual setting.

Holiday shopping has changed so much. Gifts are no longer thrown into multiple bags while walking miles, eating marginal food from a food court and spending a few days at the mall. Online shopping virtually replaced the mall with something for everyone. People choose not to fight the traffic in the city and sometimes put themselves at risk by shopping after dark and walking through poorly patrolled parking lots. Simmons is kind of like that website you like so much, only if shoppers actually want to go there and put their hands on what they’re looking for, they can. However, if time is of the essence and convenience is an advantage, shop online on their amazing website at simmonssportinggoods.com. Just like in the store, they have great sales and clearance deals for the sportsmen in our lives, and with Christmas around the corner, who doesn’t need some help saving a few bucks? Online shoppers are more frequent these days with our busy lives and always being on the go, they can make their purchases from the comfort of wherever they are and score huge with free shipping on purchases over $99. “Customers often tell us how much time they could spend in our store,” says CFO, Lindsey Curtis. “After nearly four decades in business, that’s great to hear, because it means we’re offering shoppers what they want, and they enjoy coming back.”

Simmons is a great solution for things on anyone’s shopping list. Fall has finally arrived and there’s no better place to discover outfitting product, good looking quality clothing and more at a great price. Ladies, men, even kids, can find something they like every time they shop. For the holidays, there’s even free gift wrapping, giving shoppers one less thing to worry about.

While its rugged exterior looks like something you may see in mountain states like Colorado or Wyoming, you are guaranteed to be pleasantly surprised when you walk through those massive elk horn handle doors.

WE HAVE HIGH QUALITY medical grade skin care products that make perfect gifts and stocking stuffers for your loved ones available exclusively at Hopkins Dermatology. We will have gift cards available for products and services available for purchase throughout the holiday season. Packages of our rejuvenating Geneo Facials and Fotona Laser tightening and lifting treatments have amazing discounts that you do not want to miss out on!

Rx: P3 is popular with our patients with concerns of redness and sensitivity. Our Triple Antioxidant serum combines the power of 90% Green Tea Polyphenols, Caffeine USP, and Resveratrol to give our patients unprecedented antioxidant protection. This formulation visibly reduces the signs of redness and inflammation, reduces the appearance of fine lines and surface wrinkles and is moisture enhanced with Hyaluronic Acid.

Relieve your winter dry skin with Rx: Hydrate serum. A pure, ultra-hydrating serum with fractionated Hyaluronic Acid for enhanced penetration, quenches dehydrated skin for a supple, smooth complexion and all day moisture retention. Visibly reduces the signs of aging with a nourishing blend of antioxidants and humectants. Skin appears brighter, firmer and rejuvenated.

The Rx: Plump & Protect is a staff favorite! This high gloss lip treatment helps to restore hydration and youthful volume. It has a proprietary complex of stimulating ingredients that draw beautiful, natural color. Immediately lips appear more plump and rosy, with lasting benefits to lip hydration and overall health. It also provides protection with SPF 30. Patients instantly see the difference.!

Rx: Exfoliate and Rx: Restore is a polishing and firming body duo. Rx: Restore lotion helps to visibly lift and tighten the skin with an AllTrans-Retinol that encourages cell turnover and a collagen-rich appearance. A blend of powerful antioxidants including Green Tea Polyphenols, Resveratrol and caffeine help to smooth the appearance of cellulite, fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid and ceramides moisturize and plump skin. Rx: Exfoliate has smoothing, softening, exfoliating, brightening and purifying qualities thanks to high-performance ingredients, such as Glycolic and Salicylic Acids, CoQ10, Green Tea Polyphenols and Vitamin C.

And of course you cannot forget your SPF! We have a plethora of SPF available that protects your skin and also has anti-aging benefits.

Rx: Protect SPF 50+ sunscreen is formulated with finely milled Micronized Zinc Oxide and a powerful antioxidant blend providing the highest level of UVA/UVB protection against damaging free radicals. This formula is enhanced with cooling and moisturizing hyaluronic acid and cucumber, great to wear under makeup or alone. Rx: Defend SPF 50+ is gentle on sensitive and acne-prone skin with a weightless formula. This SPF 50+ sunscreen protects your skin with Micronized Zinc Oxide and antioxidant benefits of Green Tea Polyphenols, Resveratrol, Vitamin A, C, E, and CoQ10. Rx: Protect Powder SPF 30 is a mattifying mineral powder sunscreen. This is a gentle formula combining antioxidant plus broad-spectrum protection and oil control to help skin feel and look naturally flawless. Lighttranslucent color blends in sheer with most skin tones, concealing minor imperfections.

You can find all of these products in our studio or online at shop.hopkinsdermatology.com. We wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from Hopkins Dermatology!

Hot cocoa is like Christmas in a cup. With a dollap of delicious marshmallow creme, this homemade recipe will have you singing "Falalalala" all night long. Dip in a candy cane, light the fire and cozy up to this Christmas Cocoa.

Ingredients 1/2 cup sugar 1/4 cup unsweetened baking cocoa 1/3 cup water 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 4 cups milk 3/4 cup marshmallow creme

In 2-quart saucepan, heat sugar, cocoa, water, cinnamon and nutmeg over low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is smooth. Heat to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer 4 minutes, stirring constantly. Stir in milk. Heat over low heat. Pour cocoa into 6 mugs. Top each with 2 tablespoons marshmallow creme.

MAYBE YOU’VE HEARD OF THE STORY OF “THE LITTLE Engine That Could.” As a little engine struggles to pull a long train of toys over a mountain, she repeats the mantra, “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can.” When she successfully reaches the top and starts back down the other side, she happily says “I thought I could! I thought I could!” The moral of the children’s story is about overcoming obstacles—even when you’re not the biggest or strongest around. 2020 was a record year for rural hospital closures as they faced “Little Engine” challenges that arose from the COVID-19 pandemic. But, Delhi Hospital is a story of success. The critical access hospital is a great example of a small delivery network proving “big city medicine” can exist in a rural area. With a mindset of the “Little Hospital That Could,” Delhi Hospital continues to grow and expand its services to those who need it most.

In 1936, two physicians moved to Delhi and opened a small clinic with the vision of providing the rural community with local health care. Since then, the Delhi Clinic and Sanitorium has transformed into a Hospital Service District providing a range of healthcare services to those throughout Northeast Louisiana.

Today, Delhi’s Health Program includes a Critical Access Hospital, Rural Health Clinic, Federally-Qualified Health Center, Dental Clinic, and 3 School-Based Health Centers. “In the last few years, we’ve really made an effort to expand services to our communities.” says Michael Carroll, administrator of Delhi Hospital. Patients can access a range of services close-to-home, such as: Cardiac Rehab, 3D Mammography, Diabetes Education, Mental Health Services, Addiction Medicine, Sleep Studies, Gastroenterology, FibroScan, Dental Care, and a 24-hour Emergency Room- just to name a few. The rural hospital is also proactive about providing the latest and greatest medical technology to its patients, being one of the first in the region to offer 3D Mammography & FibroScan.

Dr. Corey Albritton, Medical Director of Delhi Hospital & Clinics, has proudly provided patient-centered care in his hometown for over 20 years. “Our patients feel like they are treated as a person rather than a number,” says Dr. Albritton. This personal connection the Delhi HealthCare Team makes with their patients recently earned them a national award: Top 20 Critical Access Hospitals in the Nation for Patient Satisfaction.

Like the Little Engine story, Delhi Hospital shows that size is not the determining factor of success or failure. Small does not have to be an impediment. With our commitment of improving access to healthcare for our community, combined with the heart of our dedicated Healthcare Team, Delhi Hospital is going places!

Won’t you join us on the journey to better health? Learn more at www.delhihospital.com.

LOOKING FOR A FUN NIGHT OF merriment, camaraderie, food and cigars with your favorite friends? Join us for the inaugural Christmas Party & Cigar Event on Saturday, December 11th from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. There will be great deals on cigars – perfect for stocking stuffers, bosses’ gifts, or to stash away and share during holiday parties. The staff at Omertà will provide a main dish for the event but non-members are required to bring a side dish and participate in a “Dirty Santa” exchange. Members are encouraged to bring a side dish and participate in the festivities. (Please bring gift wrapped or in a bag, valued at $25-$40). Dinner starts at 5:30 p.m. and gift exchange begins at 7:30 p.m.

Originally established in Oklahoma City in 2015, Omertà Cigar was founded by six cigar aficionados with a vision of providing other enthusiasts with a robust selection and superior lounge experience. From that vision the Omertà lifestyle emerged and expanded to include multiple cigar shops, a whiskey bar, and a cigar friendly dive bar in the greater Oklahoma City, Tulsa and now Monroe.

The mantra at Omertà is “Your lounge experience is our strength,” a concept the team has readily embraced. In conjunction with providing a robust inventory and expert staff recommendations Omertà’s location provides its members with a unique atmosphere that exudes a vintage ambiance flowing to the rear lounge area which has been renovated to include modern seating, a fully stocked beverage area, two 65 inch wall mounted televisions, as well as two state-of-the-art air purification systems. The staff at Omertà prides itself on creating a superior lounge experiences, encouraging a sense of community, and appreciation for commonality among its members.

The Omertà lifestyle encourages community, solidarity, and appreciation for commonality among members. The team at Omertà supports the concept of community and encourages patrons to enjoy, unplugged. Due to heavy use of social media and the pandemic, there is a substantial decrease in opportunities for people to make genuine connections, interactions, and the creation of shared experiences. Cigar lounges, specifically Omertà aim to provide enthusiasts with this long forgotten practice.

Their focus on creating an external community stems largely from their commitment to employees. The Omertà brand is managed by a Combat Disabled Veteran, something the small business prides itself on. The business extends this commitment by providing medical benefits to employees, a practice not commonly seen in their industry.

We invite you to stop in and experience the Omertà lifestyle. Located in the historic Monroe garden district at 1004 North 3rd Street. Open Monday- Saturday 10-8. Lounge membership opportunities are available. Be sure to follow on social media and check-in frequently for the latest news and upcoming events. You can also shop online at www.purocigarhouse.com

IT IS THE “MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF YEAR” IN Downtown Ruston and December is packed full of exciting events to get you in the mood for the holiday season in Downtown Ruston. Our merchants have decked the halls and look forward to seeing you this holiday season. Our walkable downtown makes it easy to park and shop for everyone on your list! You’re sure to find just what you need for everyone on your list. Whether it’s jewelry, a great selection of boutique clothes, golf lessons, hair care, LA Tech apparel, or that perfect piece for your home, you’re sure to find it in Downtown Ruston. While you’re here, don’t forget to enjoy one of our outstanding restaurants for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

This month kicks off with a Ruston Community Theater presentation of “A Christmas Carol” in the historic Dixie Theater. The production runs December 2nd-5th with shows Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights at 7 p.m. and a Sunday show at 2 p.m. Carriage rides will be back this year in Downtown Ruston. Every Friday and Saturday through December 18th, you can see the lights in style in a carriage with your family and friends! The rides start at 6 p.m. at Spears Parking Lot, just south of City Hall.

Saturday, December 4th will be a great day to mark everyone off your shopping list in Downtown Ruston. The North Central Louisiana Arts Market will be in the Norton Building. Here, you can find gifts from makers and artists from around North Louisiana all in one stop. The Market will open from noon until 7 p.m. Santa will be on sight from 12-2 p.m. and would love for you to take pictures with him.

We are excited to welcome back the Ruston Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade this year.

December 11th at 6 p.m. the parade will roll through Downtown with Cathi Cox-Boniol, the 2020 recipient of the Robert E. Russ Award, serving as Grand Marshal. This year’s theme is “All Things Christmas!”

Saturday, December 18th, from 10:30 a.m. until 12 p.m. we invite you and your family to Esma’s Alley where you can see the Jolly Old Elf, Santa Claus! We will have an art activity for the kids and a cookie kit from Uptown Downtown to take home! Ruston Photography will also be on-site to take photos of the kids with Santa. This is a fun and free family event.

To keep up with all the events and activities, be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram @downtownruston. We are looking forward to seeing you Downtown!

DANCE BRINGS JOY TO SO MANY PEOPLE ALL AROUND the world – professional or otherwise — and in this way can very much be seen as a gift. As dancers, it is our job to refine this gift and share it with audiences. Being able to take the audience on a journey and bring a story to life on stage is truly a blessing. To dance is having the opportunity to pursue expression and beauty through movement and imagination. Through creativity, a child grows to appreciate and share the beauty in life. Dance is a gift that brings people together with creativity and music. Dance is joyous and brings a unity of kindness, acceptance, empathy, and passion. Surely they are the most important gifts to remember at Christmas, and beyond!

At DBK, we teach our students the importance of sharing their talent by giving back to others. We are so proud of the positive impact our dancers have made in the community by giving their time and talent to help and inspire others! Dance makes the world better. Dance makes people better… that is the best gift in the world!

We invite you to Celebrate the Season with us for a special performance as part of Christmas at Kiroli Park. On Saturday and Sunday, December 18th & 19th at 3 pm we will present DBK’s version of “T’was the Night Before Christmas” on the Amphitheater Stage. Enjoy our performance, the beauty of the park decorated for Christmas, and after the sun sets a drive through of the fabulous display of lights!

Christmas is the time for giving, for sharing, for family and friends. It is the time to remember the Reason for the Season!

The performing arts are so important to our children. dance attributes to strong physical development, coordination, and concentration. It enhances creativity, self assurance, discipline, and strong work ethics. Our amazing DBK staff share a passion for dance and love of teaching young people. We are so much more than dance! We believe in teaching important life lessons and instilling values that help our students grow into successful adults. Each teacher has a resume of extensive training and award winning choreography that bring together an amazing team!

“I cannot imagine a world without music and dance! Dancers are truly blessed. To use your body as an instrument to bring the music or story to life is such a special gift! I teach my dancers to - dance from the heart and give God the glory!” Mrs. Debbie

For detailed information about us or to register visit us at dbourgdance.com.

NUMEROUS STUDIES HAVE SHOWN THAT SMILING actually makes you happier and less stressed. The act of smiling releases numerous feel-good brain chemicals, like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins. And there’s also a correlation between smiling and living longer. So it’s time to turn that frown upside-down. Here are multiple options to improve the health and the appearance of your smile. Regardless of the ultimate option you choose, our priority is to get you healthy. Our first step is always to take care of any active disease. Once that is done, we can focus on appearance.

Depending on your concern, you have different treatments available to improve your smile:

Teeth Whitening: If your main concern is staining, whitening is a safe, effective way to lighten your teeth. The most efficient way to do this is with custom whitening trays and gel obtained from your dentist that you wear at home. Whitening is good for external or surface stains on your teeth such as coffee stains, but not as effective on deeper or internal stains.

Veneers: These are essentially covers that go on the fronts of your teeth. They’re typically the go-to for that “Hollywood Smile” and will essentially eliminate any visible defects on the surfaces of the teeth. They can also help to correct abnormal size, shape, or asymmetry of teeth. The amount of preparation the tooth requires depends on the individual, but modern veneers often require minimal removal of existing tooth structure.

There are two main types of veneers: • Porcelain veneers are what most people think of when they hear the word “veneer.” These are made from a similar material to crowns/ caps. They have good longevity and are strong and resistant to stain and wear. • Composite veneers are made with composite, which is the same material we use for tooth-colored fillings. Composite is not as strong or wear-resistant as porcelain. It tends to stain and lose its luster over time. However, they are cheaper than porcelain but will need to be replaced every so often.

Crowns: A crown is full-coverage (that is, it goes over the whole tooth surface, including the back), whereas veneers only cover the front. For teeth with existing restorations or cavities, crowns are usually better.

Alignment: For people with crooked, crowded, or spaced-out teeth, as well as other positional concerns (e.g., overbite, non-centered midline), alignment is the best option. Both crowns and veneers can be used to address minor alignment issues, but only in appearance. They won’t treat the underlying issue. Alignment of the teeth will bring your bite and teeth to where they should be. Correct alignment will improve gum health, can help with clenching, grinding, and TMJ. The two most common methods of alignment are either traditional metal braces and brackets, or clear aligners such as Invisalign.

Frequently these different options can be combined to give you the best smile possible. Dr. Jan T. Bagwell and Dr. Jessica J. Johnston will be able to consult with you to determine your best options. Their office is located next to Sterlington High School on 165N and offers patients complete general and cosmetic dental treatments. Their team is dedicated to using the newest technologies and techniques, as well as state-of-theart equipment, to enhance your smile. These dentists always work with compassion to make their patients feel as relaxed as possible! If you and your children are looking for a dental home, Dr. Jan Bagwell and Dr. Jessica Johnston would love for you to join their family!

ASJA JORDAN, A PUBLIC administration graduate student from Monroe, was crowned the 68th Miss University of Louisiana Monroe, Friday, Nov. 5th, in Brown Auditorium. Jordan also received the Preliminary Red Carpet Award. Jordan’s platform is “Potential 2 Kinetic,” a business Jordan created. Potential 2 Kinetic’s goal is to be a catalyst for positive change and transformation within individuals and communities through yoga services, fitness training, community projects, and synergistic partnerships. “As Miss ULM, I dedicate and commit myself to the job of being a strong representative of the university, but also an active member and servant for the community. Wearing a crown and sash, it can be very glamorous and fine, but it’s not the most important to me,” Jordan said. “The most important thing to me is the job behind it. Because at the end of the day, you take the crown off, and you’re still a servant, a leader. That’s the quality that I wish to embody during this year.” Jordan will compete for the title of Miss Louisiana in June 2022 at the Monroe Civic Center.

Leslie Hobgood from Shreveport was awarded the first runner-up and Preliminary Talent Award. The second runner-up was Kennedy Boston-Woods, a Monroe native, receiving a $2,000 tuition scholarship from CAB. The third runner-up was Alyssa Garner of Frierson, winning a $1,000 tuition scholarship by CAB. Victoria Sterling, an Abbeville native, was the fourth runner-up and received CAB’s $750 tuition scholarship. Ty’Leshia Brown of Winnsboro won the Social Media contest as well as Advertisement Sales award; Kiauna Rollins of Baton Rouge won the People’s Choice Award; MacKenzie Washington of Minden won Miss Congeniality, Spirit of Miss ULM, and the NonFinalist Talent Award; Sarah Riley Broadway of West Monroe won the Non-Finalist Academic Award, and Katelyn Yopp of Natchitoches won the Non-Finalist Interview Award.

“The Miss ULM competition is the largest scholarship pageant in the state for the last 10plus years as part of the Miss Louisiana and Miss America Organizations,” said Meagan Lee, the Miss ULM Director. Along with Miss ULM, Jared Anders, a P3 College of Pharmacy doctoral candidate from Central, was crowned Mr. ULM. Anders received a $1,000 scholarship from the Miss ULM Foundation and Freeman Stamper, ULM alumnus, and will serve ULM as an official host alongside Jordan. Anders also won the Social Media contest. Anders’ social impact is “Affordable Medication for All.” According to Anders, Ouachita Parish and its surrounding parishes are some of the 54 parishes in Louisiana considered medically underserved. “Charitable clinics such as Monroe’s St. Vincent de Paul Community Pharmacy help to provide medication to the economically disadvantaged and medically underserved, but they need our help,” Anders said. Anders said last year, the ULM’s Pharmacy Student Council raised $8,675 for the pharmacy, equating to more than $125,000 in life-saving retail medications. “The outlet I’ve been given as Mr. ULM provides an opportunity to boost these types of fundraisers to a university-wide level and further support those in need,” Anders said. Philip Vu from Shreveport was the first runner-up, receiving a $200 cash award sponsored by Stamper. Hollis Walker, a Lake Charles native, won the Spirit of Mr. ULM Award. Tristan Sonnier of Bunkie was awarded the People’s Choice Award and the Non-Finalist Interview Award.

FOOD IS LIFE IN THE SOUTH, AND that rings truer during the holiday season, which might feature deep-fried turkey, a dressing recipe passed down through the years, and desserts like pies, cakes, cookies and more.

Maintaining healthy eating habits can feel daunting in the face of such annual decadence, but Jen Avis, Med, LDN, RDN, CDE, outpatient dietitian with the St. Francis Medical Group, offers some perspective. She recommends that we start first with behaviors around eating and then look at healthier food choices.

No single meal or day of eating will cause permanent damage to your health. Your everyday eating and activity patterns will determine your health and success on achieving your health-related goals. Don’t let overthinking about food cause you to miss out on time with family and friends.

Of course, overindulging or binging on holiday foods isn’t a good idea Stick to your normal eating patterns and regular mealtimes as much as you can. Don’t skip breakfast just to double up at a big holiday lunch.

Listen to your body while you eat. Check in with your fullness signals, stopping halfway through your meal to ask, “Have I had enough? Can I stop here?” Stop eating before you feel overly full.

With football games on TV all day and waiting for the big meal, some families pass the time by drinking alcohol. Remember those calories count too. Often alcoholic drinks include added sugar and carbonation, which can sometimes uncomfortably expand your stomach or even make you feel hungrier than if you didn’t drink.

No one’s going to mess with Aunt Louise’s baked mac and cheese, but there might be ways to add in more fresh fruits and vegetables to the rest of the menu. Bonus points for locally sourced meats and farmfresh produce.

When you’re planning your holiday menu or any meal, check out eatingwell. com, a website run by dietitians and health professionals that is chock-full of meal plans and recipes.

After a big meal in which tryptophanheavy turkey is the star supported by all the carbs, it’s important to move your body, even just a little bit. Even a 10-minute light walk can help digestion move along and help blood sugar levels even out.

We wish you a magical holiday season that includes time with family and friends and great eats to fuel your body, mind and spirit.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dietitian Jen Avis, please visit stfran.com or call (318) 966-4073.