INDEX BODY BEAUTY AND BRAWN... 4 BAYOU BUNGALOW, HOME DÉCOR AND MORE... 9 FAVORITE FARE, FOOD AND RESTAURANTS... 14 LOCAL STORES AND SHOPS... 21 LOCAL LIVING... 24 LAGNIAPPE... 30
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BAYOU BUZZ AWARDS
PUBLISHER’S NOTE Six years ago, our first issue of BayouLife Magazine was published and since that time we have been asked to do a “Reader’s Choice” awards. Last year we published our inaugural issue of the Bayou Buzz Awards, and this year we added more categories to our nominations. There are so many amazing businesses in our area, but we decided to focus on those that are locally-owned and operated. The Bayou Buzz Awards is our way of celebrating those business owners who took risks and were successful at developing businesses that have made an impact in our community. Our nominees were chosen by over four hundred people who are actively involved in our community. From that list, the public was invited to vote for their favorites. In the following pages, you will find the top 3 finalists in each category, with the winner listed at the top. We hope that our readers will use this insert as a resource for finding some of the most endeared businesses in our region. Thank you to all those that participated in this year’s Bayou Buzz Awards. CASSIE LIVINGSTON Publisher, BayouLife Magazine
BODY, BEAUTY AND BRAWN Whether you are looking for a personal trainer to help reach your fitness goals or a stylist to fix your ‘do, we’ve got the best of the best listed below. This group of finalists encompasses our readers’ choices for body, beauty and brawn.
BEST MANI/PEDI:
PAMPERED & POLISHED OWNERS: DAKOTA & TAYLOR SMITH 4075 STERLINGTON ROAD, SUTE 7, MONROE, LA 318.345.0850 Pampered & Polished has been the go to place for hair, skin and nails since 2011. This award winning salon is located on Hwy 165 North, across from Brookshire’s. This is their second time to be voted Best Nail Salon. Pampered & Polished offers a variety of natural manicures and pedicures, including luxe services with rejuvenating indulgences such as paraffin wax, sugar scrub, masque and hot towel wrap. There are even options for men and kids.
BEST MANI/PEDI FINALISTS: LE VOUGE NAILS RAIN BEAUTY + BODY
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BEST MEDI SPA: WINNER: NEW BEGINNINGS WELLNESS CENTER & SPA FINALISTS: HOPKINS DERMATOLOGY N’BLISS AT SPA BLUE
BEST HAIR SALON: WINNER: SALON COUTURE FINALISTS: RAIN BEAUTY + BODY RUMO’S BARBER SHOP
BEST HAIR STYLIST/COLORIST: WINNER: ASHLEY CHAPMAN, SALON COUTURE FINALISTS: SHEA EMERY, MAISON RIVÉ RUSSELL MOORE, RUMO’S BARBER SHOP
BEST WAXING: WINNER: RAIN BEAUTY + BODY FINALISTS: HOPKINS DERMATOLOGY SPA NOUVELLE
DAY SPA: WINNER: SPA NOUVELLE/DERMA MEDIQ FINALISTS: NEW BEGINNINGS WELLNESS CENTER & SPA RAIN BEAUTY + BODY
BODY, BEAUTY AND BRAWN
BEST ATHLETIC CENTER/GYM: THE WELLNESS CENTER
LOCATION: 3215 CYPRESS ST, WEST MONROE, LA | 318. 329.9100 The Wellness Center in West Monroe is the area’s premier health and fitness facility. The 36,000 heated square feet location features the region’s only indoor heated pool, a ladies floor, and a state of the art yoga studio. It’s family-friendly atmosphere offers free child care, swim lessons, pool parties, and kid camps year round. 65+ unlimited group fitness classes are available each week, and the gym offers Hammer Strength and Precor equipment. Everything you could want out of your workout and MORE is available at The Wellness Center.
BEST ATHLETIC CENTER/GYM FINALISTS: CROSSFIT RUSTON MONROE ATHLETIC CLUB (MAC)
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BEST FACIAL: WINNER: WENDY NEWSOM, SPA NOUVELLE FINALISTS: EMERY BECKHAM, NEW BEGINNINGS JENNIFER BROWN, HOPKINS DERMATOLOGY
BEST FITNESS TRAINER: WINNER: CESAR CAMACHO FINALISTS: JANA BECK BONNIE HAY
BEST YOGA / PILATES: WINNER: BLUE SKY YOGA FINALISTS: MONROE ATHLETIC CLUB THE WELLNESS CENTER
BEST EYEBROW SERVICES: WINNER: VICTORIA ALEXANDER FINALISTS: HOPKINS DERMATOLOGY NEW BEGINNINGS WELLNESS CENTER & SPA
BODY, BEAUTY AND BRAWN BEST SUNLESS TANNING: WINNER: SOUTHERN SUNLESS TANNING FINALIST: AGELESS SKIN LASER CENTER
BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST: WINNER: TERESA REEVES, THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE PRACTIONERS FINALISTS: MARY BETH DICKERSON, SPA NOUVELLE ANA HALE, SPA NOUVELLE
BEST EYELASH SERVICES: RAIN BEAUTY + BODY
OWNERS: HOLLY & JAMES MCCREADY 407 DESIARD STREET, MONROE, LA | 318.651.8088
BEST EYELASH SERVICES FINALISTS: EMERY BECKHAM, NEW BEGINNINGS DEFINE LASH CO.
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BAYOU BUNGALOW Home is where the heart is and the finalists in these categories definitely have our love. From the very best in furniture options, to the guys with the green thumb, our Bayou Bungalow winners celebrate the best in home décor and more.
BEST GARDEN SHOP:
SONNY PANZICO’S GARDEN MART OWNERS: SONNY PANZICO, CINDY & MARK LINDSTROM LOCATIONS: 1630 ARKANSAS RD, WEST MONROE, LA | 318.396.9702 7540 US-165 N, MONROE, LA | 318.387.5930 After 43 years in business, the name Sonny Panzico has become synonymous with gardening. What sets Panzico’s apart are the years of knowledge and personal service. The new North Monroe location boasts 55,000 indoor square feet with a 10,000 square foot greenhouse for all the shrubs, trees, and bedding plants, along with everything for outdoor living, including custom and pre-made outdoor kitchens and nice patio furniture. After putting most of his life into building this business, Sonny is happy to see his legacy continue with his son-in law Mark and his daughter Cindy, a legacy they’re all proud of.
BEST GARDEN SHOP FINALISTS: O’NEAL’S FARM & GARDEN, SAMMY’S PLANT WORLD
BAYOU BUNGALOW BEST ELECTRICIAN: WINNER: COPELAND ELECTRIC FINALISTS: ALBRITTON SERVICE COMPANY TROY LORD
BEST HOME ACCESSORIES: WINNER: PAUL MICHAEL COMPANY FINALISTS: CHARTREUSE PEAR THE MUFFIN TIN
BEST HARDWARE AND DESIGN MATERIAL: WINNER: TP OUTDOORS FINALISTS: PEARCE LUMBER COMPANY SONNY PANZICO’S GARDEN MART
BEST FURNITURE STORE: WINNER: PAUL MICHAEL COMPANY FINALISTS: BURNEY’S FURNITURE SLEEPY HOLLOW FURNITURE
BEST PLUMBER: WINNER: KELLY PLUMBING FINALISTS: ALL PLUMBING MARK JOHNSON PLUMBING
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BEST HOME BUILDER: WINNER: HOLYFIELD CONSTRUCTION FINALISTS: BLUE HERON HOMES BRACO CONSTRUCTION
BEST COUNTERTOPS: WINNER: LOUISIANA STONE FINALISTS: J&J STONE TWIN CITY GRANITE
BEST PEST CONTROL: WINNER: RUSTON EXTERMINATING FINALISTS: BAYOU MOSQUITO SMITH EXTERMINATING
BEST OUTDOOR FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES: WINNER: SONNY PANZICO’S GARDEN MART FINALISTS: THE PATIO PLACE SLEEPY HOLLOW OUTDOOR
BEST PAINTER: WINNER: TODD MCGUFFIE FINALISTS: AMY PETERS SIMMERMAKER DONNIE SELLERS
BAYOU BUNGALOW
BEST INTEROR DESIGNER/ DECORATOR: TAYLOR BENNETT TAYLOR BENNETT CREATIVE 318.538.8126
Taylor Bennett has been creating immaculate interior designs for the last four years. Focusing on home design and styling, he works on new constructions, renovations and has recently been remodeling a downtown building in Monroe. His aesthetic is modern and minimal, a less is more mentality. He uses multiple textures, creating warm and inviting spaces that feel lived in. Taylor “believes homes should tell a story: where you’ve been, where you are and where you’re going.” He wants his clients to look forward to coming home and regret leaving.
BEST INTEROR DESIGNER/DECORATOR FINALISTS: HEATHER GUILLOT/BEYOND THE FRONT PORCH LAUREN ROEBUCK
BEST HVAC / HEATING AND AIR: WINNER: GILLEY’S HEATING & COOLING
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FINALISTS: ALBRITTON SERVICE COMPANY GORDON AIR AND PLUMBING
BEST HOME CLEANING: WINNER: KELSEY KLEAN FINALISTS: CASA LINDA, KIM ROBERTS PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICES OF NELA, INC.
BEST TREE REMOVAL SERVICE: WINNER: CAJUN TREE CUTTERS FINALISTS: MUNHOLLAND TREE SERVICE HOLYFIELD TREE SERVICE
BEST FLOORING COMPANY: WINNER: JE DUPUY / LINCOLN FLOORING FINALISTS: KIM’S FLOOR DÉCOR TERESA’S FLOORING AND DECORATING
BEST YARD CARE: WINNER: NORTHPRO LANDSCAPING & LAWNCARE FINALISTS: KILPATRICK LANDSCAPING TYLER BOYD, TMB LAWN AND LANDSCAPE
BEST CUSTOM CABINETS: WINNER: MAYO CUSTOM CABINETS FINALISTS: KEY MILLWORK & SUPPLY WOODLANDS CUSTOM CABINETS
FAVORITE FARE Louisiana is known for delicious food, and our Favorite Fare category recognizes the best in the industry. From your favorite mixologist to the best burger in town – we’ve got you covered when it comes to these nom, nom, nominees.
BEST BAR FOR BEER: FLYING TIGER BREWERY
LOCATION: 506 N 2ND ST., MONROE, LA | 318.547.1738 Flying Tiger Brewery is Northeast Louisiana’s first full-scale, manufacturing craft brewery that produces and packages all beer on site. They are a community-based business with a taproom that hosts special events, fundraisers and live music. The eclectic and comfortable taproom features the work of local talent. The bar, countertops and tabletops were created by Kyle Snellenberger while the artwork featuring General Chennault was created by artist, Jason Byron Nelson. There is even a replica of the P-40 Warhawk Airplane that hangs above the bar, paying homage to the brewery’s namesake.
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BEST BAR FOR BEER FINALISTS: ENOCH’S IRISH PUB & CAFÉ UTILITY BREWING COMPANY
BEST PLACE FOR A CRAFT COCKTAIL: WINNER: DOE’S EAT PLACE FINALISTS: ENOCH’S IRISH PUB & CAFÉ SUNDOWN TAVERN
BEST BAR TO WATCH A GAME: WINNER: FIELDHOUSE BAR AND GRILL FINALISTS: THE DAWG HOUSE SPORTS GRILL PORTICO RESTAURANT AND BAR, MONROE
BEST WINE SELECTION: WINNER: LANDRY VINEYARDS FINALISTS: TONORE’S WINE CELLAR WASHINGTON WINE & SPIRITS
BEST BARTENDER: WINNER: JEREMY SCOTT, UTILITY BREWING CO. FINALISTS: NATE HEXOM, FLYING TIGER BRAD SHOWS, ENOCH’S IRISH PUB AND CAFÉ
BEST FRENCH FRIES: WINNER: MAGIC GRILL FINALISTS: DAQ’S WINGS AND GRILL THE DAWG HOUSE SPORTS GRILL
FAVORITE FARE
BEST COFFEE:
RAILWAY COFFEE OWNER: MICHAEL DAVIS 202 W. MISSISSIPPI AVE., RUSTON, LA | 3 18.678.5781 Railway Coffee is local in every sense of the word, with most of its ownership having grown up in Ruston. The shop roasts in-house, adding atmosphere to the space and quality to the product. The beans are only days old, and the coffee is served fresh and is more appealing to customers. Railway focuses on making its customers feel comfortable as soon as they walk in the door. Team members Michael Davis, Matt Cassity and Chandler Burkhalter encourage customers to “take a break from life” and enjoy the space.
BEST COFFEE FINALISTS: DAILY PRESS, LATIN FOOD CAFÉ
BEST MARGARITA: WINNER: IRON CACTUS FINALISTS: AVOCADO’S LA BAMBA AUTHENTIC MEXICAN RESTAURANT
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BEST CRAWFISH: WINNER: CORMIER’S RESTAURANT FINALISTS: CRAWFISH CITY RIVERSIDE CRAWFISH
BEST GUMBO: WINNER: PONCHATOULA’S FINALISTS: MOHAWK TAVERN TRAPP’S
BEST POBOY: WINNER: MAGIC GRILL FINALISTS: PONCHATOULA’S RAY’S PEGE
BEST PIZZA: WINNER: JOHNNY’S PIZZA HOUSE FINALISTS: ROMA ITALIAN BISTRO UTILITY BREWING COMPANY
BEST TACO JOINT: WINNER: IRON CACTUS FINALISTS: AVOCADO’S TACO BANDITO
FAVORITE FARE BEST FRIED CHICKEN: WINNER: BIG MOMMA’S FINE FOODS FINALISTS: MAGIC GRILL MEL’S CAJUN FRIED CHICKEN AND CATFISH
BEST ASIAN: WINNER: RAWZ CAFÉ FINALISTS: RAW RESTURANT, RONIN STEAKHOUSE AND SUSHI
BEST BURGER: WINNER: THE BURGER GRIND FINALISTS: THE CREAMERY, THE DAWG HOUSE SPORTS GRILL
BEST BBQ JOINT: WINNER: BRISTER’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ FINALISTS: BBQ WEST, DANKEN TRAIL
BEST BREAKFAST: WINNER: THE COFFEE BEAN FINALISTS: LATIN FOOD CAFÉ, LEA’S OF LECOMPTE
BEST ITALIAN: WINNER: ROMA ITALIAN BISTRO
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FINALISTS: GENO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT GENUSA’S RESTAURANT
BEST STEAK:
DOE’S EAT PLACE OWNERS: ANDY EATON, SEAN HAMMONS AND RYAN WATTS LOCATION: 300 WASHINGTON ST, MONROE, LA | 318.737.7169 Doe’s Eat Place roots began in 1941 in Greenville, Mississippi, and the restaurant became legendary for its world-class steaks, tamales and southern fare enjoyed in a friendly and laid-back atmosphere. That tradition continued here in Monroe in 2014 when Doe’s opened its doors in Washington Plaza in the heart of our beautiful downtown. And there are plenty of options when it comes to steak. The menu features filet mignon to T-Bone and everything in between including Porterhouse, Sirloin and Ribeye, Doe’s Eat Place is a carnivore’s dream.
BEST STEAK FINALISTS: BEAU VINES WAREHOUSE NO. 1 RESTAURANT
BEST BRUNCH: WINNER: RESTAURANT COTTON FINALISTS: BEAU VINES PORTICO RESTAURANT & BAR, MONROE
FAVORITE FARE BEST SEAFOOD: WINNER: WAREHOUSE NO. 1 RESTAURANT FINALISTS: CATFISH CHARLIE’S TRAPP’S
BEST SANDWICHES: WINNER: THE PICKLE BARREL FINALISTS: DAILY PRESS UPTOWN DOWNTOWN
BEST SWEET TREATS: WINNER: UPTOWN DOWNTOWN FINALISTS: NOT JUST PIE SOCIAL BITES
BEST VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY: WINNER: DAILY HARVEST FINALISTS: FOR HIS TEMPLE JAVI P’S FRESH MEX
BEST GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS: WINNER: FOR HIS TEMPLE FINALISTS: DOE’S EAT PLACE THE GOOD EARTH JUICE AND SALAD BAR (INSIDE FIESTA)
BEST HEALTH FOOD: WINNER: FIESTA NUTRITION CENTER
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FINALISTS: FOR HIS TEMPLE GIBSON’S NATURAL GROCER
LOCAL STORES & SHOPS Our local retailers are top notch, offering North Louisiana residents the best shopping around. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends and something outdoors, these local stores and shops have it all.
BEST SHOE STORE: THE NUDE NOMAD
OWNERS: ELIZABETH AND MADISON GUERRIERO 222 TRENTON ST., WEST MONROE, LA | 318.582.1748 The Nude Nomad is a local women’s clothing, shoe and accessories boutique, specializing in unique styles from around the world for teens and women of all ages. The mother-daughter duo, Elizabeth and Madison Guerriero, founded the Nude Nomad on the belief that confidence is the most beautiful thing a woman can wear. They aim to help build strength and confidence in all women through fashion. From comfortable fashionforward shoes to unique handcrafted jewelry, the eclectic boutique offers a variety of price points and styles so there is something for everyone!
BEST SHOE STORE FINALISTS: BEEHIVE OUTLET, CARA’S BOUTIQUE
BEST EYEWEAR BOUTIQUE & OPTICAL: WINNER: HAIK HUMBLE EYE CENTER FINALISTS: DILLINGHAM OPTICAL, JAN’S OPTICAL
LOCAL STORES & SHOPS
BEST CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE: THE CHILDREN’S SHOPPE
OWNER: PATRICIA WILLIS LOCATIONS: 109 N. TRENTON, RUSTON, LA | 318.251.9599 1826 FORSYTHE AVE., MONROE, LA | 318.323.7223 The Children’s Shoppe has been North Louisiana’s premier boutique for infant and children’s clothing and gifts for over 20 years. They take pride in providing timeless children’s fashion for girls - newborn to size 16, and boys - newborn to size 20 and offer free gift wrapping, baby registries, accessories, books, toys, and custom-made bows. The Children’s Shoppe has everything new parents need for their upcoming arrival, including coveted brands like Magnolia Baby, Mayoral, Kickee Pants, Feltman Brothers and Patty. Must-have gifts for newborns, special events, birthdays or just for play are always available at The Children’s Shoppe.
BEST CHILDREN’S BOUITQUE FINALISTS: THE FANCY FOX, THE MOTHER HEN
BEST SPORTING GOODS: WINNER: TP OUTDOORS
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FINALISTS: MCKINNEY HONDA, SIMMONS SPORTING GOODS
BEST GIFT SHOP: WINNER: THE MUFFIN TIN FINALISTS: CHARTREUSE PEAR, THE RUSTIQUE GATOR
BEST ATHLETIC WEAR: WINNER: RIVER OUTFITTERS FINALISTS: CROSSFIT OF RUSTON, H. MICKEL SPORTING GOODS
BEST MEN’S CLOTHING STORE: WINWINNER: PATTON’S WESTERN WEAR FINALISTS: SIMMONS SPORTING GOODS, THE TOGGERY
BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING: WINNER: CARA’S BOUTIQUE FINALISTS: THE FLEURTY GINGER, THE NUDE NOMAD
BEST ANTIQUE STORE: WINNER: TRENTON STREET ANTIQUES FINALISTS: COTTONPORT ANTIQUES, TRADITIONS ON TRENTON
BEST JEWELRY STORE: WINNER: HOLLIS & COMPANY FINALISTS: BALDWIN’S ANTIQUE JEWELRY RANDY SMITH JEWELERS
LOCAL LIVING Our Local Living nominees offer the best services in Northeast Louisiana. Whether you’re looking for a realtor or need a caterer for your next big party, these businesses are the cream of the crop.
BEST DANCE STUDIO:
LINDA LAVENDER SCHOOL OF DANCE OWNERS: LINDA LAVENDER FORD & LINDA LOU BOURLAND LOCATIONS: 2907 DESOTO ST., MONROE, LA | 318.361.0391 651 COMMERCIAL PKWY, WEST MONROE, LA | 318.325.7179 For over fifty years Linda Lavender School of Dance has nurtured the art of dance. With two locations, they offer classes for ages 2 1/2 to adult including classical ballet, tap, jazz and hip hop. They have been given the Bayou Buzz Award for “Best Dance Studio” for the second year in a row.
BEST DANCE SCHOOL FINALISTS: A TIME TO DANCE, MISSY CRAIN DANCE STUDIOS
BEST DAYCARE / CHILDCARE: WINNER: BAYOU GYMNASTICS
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FINALISTS: FIRST UNITED METHODIST, MONROE FIRST WEST MOTHER’S DAY OUT
BEST FLORAL SHOP: WINNER: FINE FOLKS FINALISTS: 2 CRAZY GIRLS VEE’S FLOWERS
BEST TAILOR / ALTERATIONS: WINNER: SHIRLEY’S ALTERATIONS FINALISTS: AFTER-HOURS ALTERATIONS CAROLYN’S SEWING
BEST CAR WASH: WINNER: ROCKETFAST CAR WASH FINALISTS: CARWASH WEST HAPPY DAYS CAR WASH
BEST PET GROOMER: WINNER: HAPPY TAILS FINALISTS: DOGGIE STYLE GROOMING FRIENDLY FARMS PET RETREAT
BEST DRY CLEANER: WINNER: D&D DRY CLEANERS FINALISTS: THE CLEANERS OF RUSTON WEIL CLEANERS
LOCAL LIVING BEST PET BOARDER: WINNER: HAPPY TAILS FINALISTS: THE HAPPY HOUND HOTEL LEFEBVRE VETERINARY MEDICAL CENTER
BEST AUTO DEALER: WINNER: JIM TAYLOR FINALISTS: CAR TOWN, RYAN AUTO GROUP
BEST CREDIT UNION: WINNER: OUACHITA VALLEY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION FINALISTS: CENTRIC FEDERAL CREDIT UNION MONROE TELCO FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
BEST PHARMACY: WINNER: ARON’S PHARMACY FINALISTS: COMMUNITY PHARMACY YANCEY’S PHARMACY AND GIFTS
BEST FINANCIAL PLANNER: WINNER: DARREN OGLESBY FINALISTS: KELLY BRANTLEY KENNY GUILLOT
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BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY CLINIC: WINNER: MELANIE MASSEY PHYSICAL THERAPY FINALISTS: DANI JONES PHYSICAL THERAPY GLORY THERAPY
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER: WINNER: UNVEILED RADIANCE FINALISTS: ALBRITTON PHOTOGRAPHY KELLY MOORE CLARK
BEST YOUTH SUMMER CAMP/PROGRAM: WINNER: MEDCAMPS FINALISTS: CAMP CH-YO-CA KING’S CAMP
BEST MECHANIC: WINNER: FRANK NETTLES AUTOMOTIVE FINALISTS: CULP’S AUTOMOTIVE RYAN AUTO GROUP
BEST CHIROPRACTOR: WINNER: SHELL FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC FINALISTS: MONROE CHIROPRACTIC TRAXLER CHIROPRACTIC
LOCAL LIVING
BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT: HEATHER GUILLOT VANGUARD REALTY 218 TRENTON ST WEST MONROE, LA 318.855.2925
With nearly a decade of experience in the real estate industry, Heather Guillot is an expert in her field. She specializes in getting to know her clients and helping with their specific wants and needs when it comes to selling and buying a house. One of the things that sets Heather apart is the ability to think outside the box, allowing her to market herself and her listings in a creative way, reach a wide audience, and ultimately, help her clients by purchasing a new home or selling a property.
BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT FINALISTS: BRILEY BRASHER COTTON, MISTI HAJJ
BEST ATTORNEY: WINNER: JEFF GUERRIERO FINALISTS: CHRISTIAN CREED, B JAY DURRETT
BEST VETERINARY CLINIC: WINNER: PETSTAR ANIMAL CARE, RUSTON
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FINALISTS: COOPER VETERINARY HOSPITAL MORRIS VETERINARY HOSPITAL
BEST DENTAL OFFICE: WINNER: NELA DENTAL FINALISTS: PEACH TREE DENTAL DR. TROY BOSTICK
BEST ORTHODONTIST: WINNER: CAPLES AND ROBINSON FINALISTS: HUMMEL ORTHODONTICS, TURPIN ORTHODONTICS
BEST CATERER: WINNER: THURMAN’S FOOD FACTORY FINALISTS: HERITAGE CATERING/CORY BAHR UPTOWN DOWNTOWN
BEST BANK: WINNER: ORIGIN BANK FINALISTS: BANCORPSOUTH, BANK OF RUSTON, CROSS KEYS BANK
BEST ACCOUNTANT / CPA: WINNER: DAVID T. COLE FINALISTS: TASHIA HINES, ZACH DUCHESNE
BEST INSURANCE AGENT: WINNER: BLAKE WHEELIS FINALISTS: GREG MANLEY, PEGGY SULLIVAN
LAGNIAPPE
photo by Paul Ware
These categories represent some of the best products and people in the area. We love following our finalists on Instagram and always look forward to visiting our local art galleries.
BEST ART GALLERY:
MASUR MUSEUM OF ART 1400 S GRAND ST, MONROE, LA | 318.329.2237 Located in a historic home built in 1929 and donated as an art museum in 1963, Masur Museum is a partnership between the City of Monroe and The Twin City Foundation established in 1974. It features 6-8 exhibitions per year and houses a permanent collection of 600 works of art. Adult art classes are offered throughout the year, including: calligraphy, book making, painting, printmaking, photography and stained glass. Masur offers school tours and summer art camps. The first Saturday of every month from 2 - 5 p.m. the museum hosts a children’s drop-in with an art activity related to the exhibition on view.
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BEST ART GALLERY: FINALISTS: MAINSTREET EXCHANGE RUSTON ARTISANS
BEST PUBLIC OFFICIAL: WINNER: CONGRESSMAN RALPH ABRAHAM FINALISTS: STACI ALBRITTON MAYOR RONNY WALKER
BEST LOCAL PRODUCT: WINNER: MR. P’S TEES FINALISTS: FLYING TIGER BREWERY LANDRY VINEYARDS
BEST LOCALLY OWNED CHAIN: WINNER: CHICK-FIL-A FINALISTS: NEWK’S EATERY SMALLCAKES
BEST INSTAGRAMMER: WINNER: TAYLOR BENNETT @taylor.a.bennett FINALISTS: FLYING TIGER BREWERY @flyingtigerbrewery KEMPER & JORDAN BAUGH @joandkemp