BayouLife Magazine February 2020 by BayouLife Magazine

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FEBRUARY 2020

36 27 / THE PERFECT KING CAKE Caster & Chicory Has Perfected the Art of Baking King Cakes and Shares With Us How to Make the Perfect King Cake

76 / “THE ORIGINAL” CONEY ISLAND The Original” Coney Island West Monroe, This Month’s BayouEats, Has Been and Continues to Serve Up Diner Favorites

36 / ENLIGHTENED LIVING Because of Her Determination to Make a Positive Impact on the Lives of Countless Others, Dr. Pamela Higgins Saulsberry is This Month’s Bayou Icon

84 / GRANNY’S RECIPE Granny Shares Her Recipe For Buttermilk Candy

48 / LOVE BUGS Let Your Little Ones Get Creative With This DIY Activity Kit For Valentine’s Day 64 / MARDI GRAS MANIA BayouLife Magazine Features the Two Krewes That Will Parade the Streets For Mardi Gras

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136 / STONERPOP Crafting Sounds And Visuals as Diverse As the Cultures From Which They Grew, Stonerpop, This Month’s BayouBeats, is Keeping Their Music Artistic and Their Art Visionary

A P R I L 2 0 1 8144 / ENCHANTED GARDEN

104 / BAYOU ARTIST For Local Artists Linda SniderWard and Robert “Bob” Ward, Art Has Been a Binding Force in Their Marriage For 26 Years 114/ MEN OF MU TAU Following a Tradition of United Community Involvement Through Fellowship is the Monroe Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity

Beauty Blooms in These Fun and Flirty Outfits From Area Boutiques. From Lavender Fields to Red Haute Hues, These Looks are Perfect For Valentine's Day and More 150 / FLIRTATIOUS FORTUNES The Fortunes Hidden Behind the Pleats of This Origami Fortune Teller Are Sure to Make You Blush

ebruary is a time to honor those we love, recognize the central role of AfricanAmericans in U.S. history and gather together to celebrate Mardi Gras and prepare for the Lenten season. It’s a month that the Livingstons celebrate in a big way – my oldest daughter turns eight and my baby will be six, and my mom will be sixtyish. It’s a party all month long for our family. This month’s issue has timely articles on gardening, Valentine’s Day projects, people who have shaped our community, recipes, outdoors columns and more. Our artists this month are a couple who have celebrated over 26 years together. I met Bob Ward in 2000 as a student in the art department at the University of Louisiana Monroe. He was my painting professor, and he was hard on me. Looking back I know it’s because he knew I was doing what I could to get by and not truly applying myself and my talents. I always loved his paintings – full of color in large formats. The first time I saw his wife, Linda Snyder-Ward’s art was in an exhibition at Margaret Becton Cox’s gallery on what would become Art Alley. I was mesmerized by the intricate details in her illustrations. This powerhouse couple was initially brought together by art and art still binds them together today. Read their article on page 104. Dr. Pamela Higgins Saulsberry’s entire career has been a reflection of her life. Born to parents who felt the sting of discrimination firsthand, and then

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growing up through the turbulent civil rights era taught Pamela the need for finding a path to understanding among -- and about -- these critical issues of our times. Pamela has spent her life helping others to achieve dignity, regain lost hope, and move forward with their lives. Because of her determination to make a positive impact on the lives of countless others, Dr. Pamela Higgins Saulsberry is our February Bayou Icon. Read her article on page 36. This month’s fashion shoot was small, but mighty. Crepe flowers were handcrafted by our team at BayouLife Magazine. The set was beautiful and couldn’t have been done without the design genius of Meagan Russell and Taylor Bennett. See it on page 144. Joel and Jordan Myers, owners and operators of Caster & Chicory, know baking. They have perfected their tricks of the trade over the last 14 years. Working in tandem, the parents of seven have listened to their customers, creating products locals love. Mardi Gras season keeps them busy, making thousands of king cakes for their loyal customers. On page 27, the Myers provide details for how to bake a traditional, New Orleans’ style king cake in your own kitchen. We hope that you have a great Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras and that you enjoy reading this issue of BayouLife Magazine.

Cassie

BayouLife 1201 Royal Avenue Monroe, LA 71201 Phone 318.855.3185

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PUBLISHER & OWNER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com COPY EDITOR Cindy Foust GRAPHIC DESIGNER Meagan Russell meagan@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Ashley Hubenthal ashley@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Amanda Singley amanda@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Katelyn Tolbert katelyn@bayoulifemag.com ART DIRECTOR Taylor Bennett OFFICE MANAGER Page Jones CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Brandi Chambless Dan Chason Laura W. Clark Leslie Coffman, MD Kenny Covington Shannon Dahlum Lou Davenport Cindy Gist Foust Lori French Starla Gatson J. Marshall Haynie, MD Kerry Heafner April Clark Honaker

Paul Lipe Erin Love Meredith McKinnie Guy Miller Evelyn O’Neal J. Preston Parry, MD Georgiann Potts Cathi French-Roberts Delia Simpson Beatrice A. Tatem Vanelis Rivera Judy Wagoner

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Arender Andrew Bailey Kelly Moore Clark ON THE COVER Enchanted Garden Photography by Kelly Moore Clark Model Georgia Faith Hill wearing Herringstone’s

BayouLife Magazine is published and distributed by Redbird Publishing, LLC. Circulation: 14,000 copies monthly. Postal subscriptions ($30) can be ordered online at www.bayoulifemag. com. BayouLife Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, manuscripts or other materials. Reproduction of contents without express written permission is prohibited. Opinion articles and advertorials published in the magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher or editor. 6 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

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Glenwood Maternity Care Viewing Each New Life As a Miracle to Celebrate

HE WOMEN’S AND CHILDREN’S PAVILION AT Glenwood Regional Medical Center is home to 6 private labor and delivery suites, as well as a 10-bed postpartum facility. In addition to featuring all of the medical technology required, every patient room features: • TV that offers healthcare information • Cable channels • Internet • Free in-room movies • Relaxation videos • Complimentary internet access is also available throughout the LDR suites Maternity Ward Amenities: • Highly trained OB nurses on call 24 hours a day • Dietary consultation for moms with a registered dietician • Hearing screening testing for babies • Infant CPR • Videos and learning materials about your baby’s first year • Safe Place® Security Solution (Postpartum, OB & Ped Units) • Complimentary diaper bag with formula • New daddy scrubs for new dads • Complimentary steak dinner • Merchant Coupons • Online Nursery ROOMING IN We encourage mothers to keep their new babies in their room as much as possible. Rooming in gives families time to bond and also helps new parents learn to care for their infant with the professional assistance of our nursing staff. BREAST FEEDING We offer lactation assistance for mothers who choose to breastfeed. All our nurses are trained in lactation and can help you learn the best techniques for feeding your baby and how to be sure that your baby is getting enough milk. SKIN TO SKIN CONTACT FOR YOUR BABY Your full-term, healthy baby is placed belly down directly on your chest right after birth. Your care provider dries your baby off, covers baby with a warm blanket, and gets baby settled on your chest. For a smooth transition, your chest is the best place for your baby to adjust to life in the outside world.

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SAFE PLACE® INFANT SECURITY SOLUTIONS Once your healthy new baby is born, infant security is our next priority at Glenwood. Currently Glenwood offers the Safe Place® Infant Security solution. Safe Place® offers proven protection against child abduction. A soft, flexible RFID band is attached to your baby’s ankle, which transmits information wirelessly to an automated system. If the system recognizes that the infant has been brought close to the exit door without authorization, doors lock automatically, an alarm sounds, and nurses and staff are notified instantly. When it comes to security and protection, no company rivals the features that Safe Place® offers. LEVEL II NEONATAL INTENSIVE UNIT (NICU) Glenwood offers the services of the area’s finest Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), including highly trained neonatal physician specialists, nurse practitioners and nursing staff. You can have peace of mind in knowing that the NICU is located right down the hall, should complications arise during delivery. FREE CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASSES Glenwood is committed to meeting your pre- and post-natal education needs. Childbirth Education classes are taught by skilled healthcare professionals and offer helpful interactive discussions. Classes are held in the Glenwood Medical Mall Community Room, Suite 406 across from the main hospital campus. These free classes are held monthly, excluding major holidays. Class pre-registration is required. Please visit glenwoodregional.org and click on “events & classes” to register online, or by calling 329-8590. Childbirth 101 - This free childbirth class helps prepare you for the birth of your new baby. Learn the warning signs of pre-term labor, stages of labor, and delivery with emphasis on your initial post-partum recovery and care. Newborn Care Class - This single evening class is designed to provide expectant mothers with the basics on newborn care. Topics include bathing, diapering, feeding, swaddling, safety and skin to skin contact and its benefits. Breastfeeding Class - This class is designed to teach moms the basics of breastfeeding, including getting started at the hospital, positioning, latching assessment, and breastfeeding management. Scheduled tours of our facility are also offered to help acquaint expectant mothers with our family-centered nursing unit. Tours are available upon request by calling 329-4270. For more information about Glenwood’s Maternity and Level II NICU services, visit glenwoodregional.org or call 318-329-4270.

Alumni Spotlight ULM Alum: Tarya Bell

S A 1996 GRADUATE OF WOODLAWN HIGH SCHOOL in Shreveport, Louisiana, Tarya Bell had her sights fixed on dental hygiene as her career. A program at the Caddo Career Center allowed high school juniors and seniors to explore areas of interest. Her longtime dentist, Dr. Nasser, was “the best person in the world and made you feel very comfortable,” and Tarya associated this with her eventual success in the field. But, what she found out when she began classes at ULM was that college is much different than high school. The dental hygiene degree requires intense study and understanding of science, particularly zoology, a class that plagued Tarya. But Tarya’s dental hygiene teacher saw something else in her; a willingness to speak up in class and a true ‘people person’, so she suggested that Tarya meet with Dr. Hebert in communication. Tarya began taking communication classes. Dr. Hebert would invite the class to his home for cookouts to discuss ideas and future plans. He created a sense of community, and Tarya finally felt she was right where she belonged. She credits the professors in communication for showing her a path forward. Once a hesitant public speaker, Tarya began thriving. In a sophomore debate class, Tarya was assigned the topic of “Marijuana and Its Effects.” She won the debate, and it catapulted her confidence. She came out of her shell, learned to voice her opinion, and mastered how to make an argument her own. Tarya refers to her time at ULM as “the best years of my life”. She found her niche, developed lifelong friendships, and ultimately learned who she was and what she could accomplish if she put in the work. Tarya pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated her fall semester of 2002. She was attracted to a group of like-minded, professional women, and she immersed herself in the chapter. She liked how they carried themselves and supported one another. Tarya has always benefited from her pleasant personality and making connections that inevitably propel her forward professionally. She also participated in the International Denominational Choir (IDE), a gospel choir that would practice on campus and then sing at local churches. After graduation, Tarya became a member of the Monroe Metropolitan Alumni Chapter and worked on several projects with her fellow sorors. She also credits working hard on the Political Awareness and Involvement Committee for opening her eyes to the fact that voting is one of our most valuable rights and should not be taken for granted. Tarya met and married Troy Bell during her senior year at ULM. The couple soon had four children, and after working for a few years at Chase in customer service, Tarya chose to be a stay-at-home mom. It’s 10 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

what she believed was needed for her family at the time, but she soon started itching for something more. She wanted more adult interaction and a purpose outside of the home. Her mother-in-law, Martha Tribble, suggested she get back into the workforce, and after a brief stint at a law office, Tarya was hired as the staff secretary for the Monroe City Council. At City Hall, Tarya met city professionals and leaders, and her enthusiasm for her position and positive impact on the lives of others forced everyone to take notice. In 2011, Tarya was hired as the HR Specialist for Insurance and Benefits. Her contact with the city employees and retirees was a perfect match. At the recommendation of David Barnes, the Director of Administration, Tarya was eventually promoted to Assistant HR Director in 2016. Later that year, her Division Head, Gail Ryan, nominated Tarya for Leadership Ouachita 2016, a program of the Monroe Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Council. In 2017, Tarya was selected as a panelist in the Education and Transition Track of our 2017 Women’s Symposium at ULM. Now, today, Tarya insists she’s not done yet always smiling and planning her professional path forward. “ULM helped me to grow up,” says Tarya. Being raised somewhat sheltered, college taught Tarya that while it was important to have fun and enjoy freedom, she had to buckle down if she wanted to graduate. Her parents insisted she finish school, and while she will encourage the same for her own children, she also wants them to look for what their own hearts desire. Tarya’s college experience opened her eyes to many possibilities and the knowledge that she, too, was capable of success. Now, working for the City of Monroe, Tarya often interacts with ULM interns, and she sees firsthand the impact ULM has on the community. She and Troy have been married for 17 years and are intent on raising their children to be successful individuals. Troy Jr., Amaya, Thaddeus, Julius, and Malia will see from their mother’s example that hard work pays off. Life happens, but by the grace of God, and with a strong education and hard work, “the sky is the limit”. The ULM Alumni Association reaches, connects and celebrates alumni and friends to build lifelong relationships, and commit to the university’s missions of academic freedom, scholarship, diversity, excellence, integrity and service. We represent alumni who honor the traditions of our university and who share a sense of achievement and pride. We create a network of professionals, establish scholarships and advocate for our University through community engagement. Members of the Alumni Association support countless initiatives, and annual memberships are just $35. To learn more or to become a member, please visit our new alumni network at ulm.edu/alumni.

Confidence and Satisfaction The Woman’s Clinic Offers Expanded Services For Women’s Health and Beauty

OR DECADES THE WOMAN’S Clinic has served Northeast Louisiana and every woman who lives here represented by our name and a logo. As Northeast Louisiana continues to evolve, so must we. The Woman’s Clinic will continue to provide the best OBGYN care in the region, but we will do it with a new logo and color scheme. Everyone needs a face lift from time to time. However, while we may look different, we will continue to be the premier OBGYN clinic in the region. We’ve also made some changes to our website to make it easier for our patients to use. Please take a minute and look around. You may visit the website at thewomansclinic. net. The origin of The Woman’s Clinic can be traced back to a 1961 handshake between Dr. Richard Vines and Dr. Ed Brown. Out of that handshake, grew one of the most trusted and respected organizations in Northeast Louisiana. Now the Woman’s Clinic is the premier OB/GYN clinic in the region. In 1970, Dr. James Wolff joined and was followed soon there after by Dr. Ronald Shemwell and the clinic took off from there. We now employ 10 board certified/board eligible physicians and three Women’s Health Nurse Practitioners across four locations in Monroe, West Monroe, and Ruston. We get to experience the joy of seeing new babies brought into the world every day. We have the duty of making sure that every woman who comes into our clinic is well taken care of and we have the honor of getting to become part of our patient’s lives. We see women at their highest highs, lowest lows, and everywhere in between.

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Knowing this, The Woman’s Clinic takes a compassionate, education-based approach to care. We want you to feel comfortable as well as informed. If you are going to trust us to be such an important part of your life, you deserve to be treated like an important part of ours. As the premier Woman’s Health Clinic in Northeast Louisiana, we are structured to meet the healthcare needs women face in today’s world. Our team of ten board certified or board eligible physicians and three women’s health nurse practitioners are here to treat a variety of symptoms and provide many different services. A few of them are listed below: • Aesthetics • Birth Control • Bone Density • Cancer Screening • Colposcopy • Endometriosis • Family Counseling • Fibroids • Gynecological Surgery • Gynecology • Heavy Menstrual Bleeding • Hormone Therapy • Infertility • Menopause • Minimally Invasive Surgery • Obstetrics • Osteoporosis • Ovarian Cysts • Pap Smear & HPV Screening • Pelvic Pain • Preconception Counseling • Prolapse

• STD Testing & Treatment • Ultrasound • Urinary Incontinence • Well Woman Exam We also provide our patients with a patient portal. We know the world can be a busy place. Sometimes its tough to make the connections to get what you need. At the Woman’s Clinic, our patient portal will help you make those connections on your own time. We have been privileged to provide care to and serve the woman of Northeast Louisiana. We are excited to continue that in the future. Please give us a call at (318)3884030 or visit our website at thewomansclinic. net. Also, follow us on Facebook and Instagram. We will post some informative and some fun content. The Woman’s Clinic is here to take care of you. Pictured Above – Bottom Row: Dr. Erin Gullatt, Dr. Sara Klug, Dr. Dawn Pennebaker, Dr. Adrienne Williams; Top Row: Dr. Amber Shemwell, Dr. Jason Wilson, Dr. David Bryan, Dr. Terry Tugwell, Dr. Won Lee, Dr. Laura Petty

SUMMER VEGETABLE STAPLES LSU AG CENTER

or gardeners in the ArkLaMiss, there is no better way to celebrate our country’s African American heritage than by growing two summer favorites that have really become staples. In this current renaissance of wanting to know where our foods come from, we too easily forget that many flavors ensconced in the collective consciousness of Deep South cookery came to the New World during the atrocity known as the slave trade. Two standouts are okra and cowpeas. What would life in Louisiana be without them? Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is one of my favorite vegetables to grow primarily because it’s so easy. A kissing cousin of cotton and the familiar ornamental hibiscuses, okra’s bright yellow flowers and interesting leaf shapes and textures may help carve out its own niche in flower beds, too. The LSU AgCenter lumps okra with the Group III vegetables, those that are so easy to grow all you basically have to do is drop a seed on the ground somewhere. Okra will perform well in a variety of soils and will produce a good crop where little else will. Best of all, okra is one of only a few vegetable crops that doesn’t mind full sun, soaring summer temperatures, and oppressive humidity levels. The hotter it is, the better it grows. Okra can be started from seeds in April or May, depending how the weather is cooperating. Notice the seeds are fairly small and very hard. Scarification is often necessary to compromise the seed coat for reliable germination. Methods for this are varied. My grandfather soaked his okra seeds in kerosene for a couple hours before planting. It worked, but I don’t recommend doing that, especially if you like to puff on a cigar while gardening like I do! For best results, soak okra seeds in tepid water for 24 hours. Scraping the seed coat with a nail file may also help germination

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although I’ve never found doing so to be necessary. Seedlings emerge in five to seven days. Notice how the cotyledons, the seeds leaves, track the sun across the sky during the day like sunflowers. Transplants can be set out when the first couple of true leaves emerge. Okra plants can be sizeable so allow no less than three feet between plants. Okra responds well to fertilizing, although little will be needed. An abundance of leaves and stems may indicate too much nitrogen, so 8-24-24 is preferred applied at 0.4 lb per ten foot row. The showy flowers with their distinctive hibiscus-like form attract an abundance of pollinating insects. Pollinated flowers fade quickly, and pods follow in short order. Okra pods should be harvested when fairly young and tender. If allowed to mature, they become too woody and hard for eating. The so-called ‘Cowhorn’ varieties produce pods that may get up to ten inches or more long and remain tender. In Louisiana, we have no shortage of okra varieties to choose from. ‘Gold Coast’ is an LSU variety developed at the Hill Farm in Baton Rouge.

‘Clemson Spineless’ and ‘Emerald Evergreen’ are two popular green varieties, as is ‘Cajun Delight’ which is more difficult to find but it’s out there. Red varieties are becoming more popular because they offer a little something different for visual appeal despite tasting the same as green varieties. I grew ‘Jing Orange’ with great success at the zoo a few years ago. Even the fallow deer enjoyed it! Many okra varieties are open-pollinated so their seeds will breed true and can be saved for next season’s crop. To save okra seeds, simply let a pod or two mature on the plant. They will eventually turn brown and split open along sutures that run the pod’s length. Mature seeds are dark colored and roughly the size of a bb. One or two pods should give you all the seeds needed for next year and then some. Keep them viable by storing in a cool, dry, dark place.

OKRA BLOOM

HARMON OKRA PODS

“WHAT WOULD LIFE IN LOUISIANA BE WITHOUT THEM?”

GREEN COWPEA PODS

RED OKRA VARIETY

Cowpeas, field peas, or southern peas (Vigna unguiculata) are among the world’s oldest farmed crops. Like okra, field peas are easy for us to grow because they thrive in hot weather and can be grown in relatively poor soils. Because they are legumes, field peas have a metabolic mechanism in place that allows them to generate their own nitrates. Basically, they make their own fertilizers. This requires a symbiotic bacterium, Rhizobium leguminosarum, to colonize the plants’ roots, extract nitrogen from the atmosphere, and convert it into useable nitrates by a process called nitrogen fixation. Nodules in which this takes place are visible as little bumps all along the roots. Because they generate their own nitrates cowpeas make excellent “green manures.” The plants can be grown up from seeds and turned into the soil just prior to flowering. This is a great way to add nitrogen to soil. They’re called cowpeas because the plants are still used as cattle forage in some arid regions of the world. Whether in a field or a home vegetable garden, cowpeas are going to need plenty of space. Older varieties, such as the ‘Calhoun Purplehull’ pea I wrote about in last May’s issue, vine up like butterbeans and grow best on a trellis. One historic method of growing cowpeas is called the “three sisters method.” Peas and either squash or pumpkins are planted among corn stalks, which function as living trellises for the vines. Numerous varieties of cowpea are available, so gardeners can suit their own tastes. By far, the single most popular variety of cowpea grown in our area is ‘Pinkeye Purplehull,’ one of several varieties that have pods that turn dark purple as the peas (seeds) fill out. Other purplehulled varieties include ‘Mississippi Pink Eye Purplehull’ and ‘Top Pick Purplehull.’ Several varieties of crowders, those with closely spaced seeds, are available. These include ‘Mississippi Purple,’ ‘Mississippi Silver,’ and ‘Dixie Lee.’ Black-eyed varieties include ‘Magnolia Blackeye,’ ‘Queen Anne,’ and ‘Royal Blackeye.’ The cream varieties of cowpea produce light green or white seeds and the pods don’t turn dark as they mature. These include ‘Elite,’ ‘Lady Cream,’

and ‘Zipper Pea.’ There are numerous lesser known varieties that have been saved from certain extinction thanks to people like legendary seed saver John Coykendall. He has preserved numerous heirloom varieties such as ‘Red Ripper,’ ‘Pa’s Old Grey Pea,’ and the ‘Unknown Pea,’ all from down in Washington Parish and surrounding areas. These and other more obscure varieties are available through Seed Savers Exchange in Decorah, Iowa, and all will do well in Louisiana vegetable gardens. Cowpeas can be planted as soon as soil temperatures warm up in late spring or early summer and can be planted from late April to early August. Exceptionally fertile soils will produce more vine and fewer peas. Flower color varies depending on variety, and despite being self-pollinating, they attract bees and other pollinating insects. Cowpeas are ready to harvest when pods are filled out, and harvest will cover two to three weeks at four to five-day intervals. Deer can be a major problem and are best controlled with a simple two or threewire electric fence. Stink bugs are the major insect pest to cowpeas but are easily controlled.

For advice on how to make your garden thrive, go to the Ag Journal page at www.myarklamiss. com and submit your questions.I’ll answer them every Tuesday on Louisiana Living!

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St. Francis Medical Center Announces Opening of State-of-the-Art Hybrid Operating Room

T. FRANCIS MEDICAL CENTER IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE the opening of its newly constructed hybrid operating room (OR). The hybrid OR, which is about twice as large as traditional ORs, features the most innovative technology and imaging capabilities available in Northeast Louisiana. The construction of this hybrid OR suite, as well as a new traditional surgical suite, represents an investment of over $3 million dollars and is part of St. Francis Forward, an $80 million, four-year capital campaign intended to revitalize St. Francis Medical Center and its surrounding community. The decision to invest in a hybrid OR as part of the hospital’s suite of cardiovascular services was based on improving patient outcomes and the quality of care. Patients benefit from shorter wait times, increased safety measures, and advanced imaging capabilities. When necessary, surgeons can rapidly switch between minor and complex cases, completing multiple surgeries on a single patient with multiple surgeons in the same procedure and room. “After two years of planning and construction, we are excited to open this advanced operating suite that will improve patient care and outcomes,” said Kristin Wolkart, president of St. Francis Medical Center. “Made possible by the collaboration of physicians and our surgical staff, this new operating room is just one example of our commitment to providing innovative technology for our patients, as well as continued investment in our community.” While traditional ORs are typically smaller and outfitted for one specific procedure, hybrid ORs are specially designed and equipped to make surgeries safer and easier for patients and the surgical team. ADVANTAGES OF A HYBRID OR INCLUDE: • Having advanced imaging equipment available during surgery allows for faster, more precise placement of surgical tools and implants. • Surgeries generally proceed more quickly because everything the surgeon needs is right in the room. There’s no need to move to another location for additional procedures or imaging. • The newest technologies require less radiation and less contrast material — the dye that is needed to give doctors a better view

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of tissues. This means greater safety for patients. • Results for patients may be enhanced due to the shorter surgical times, smaller incisions needed for minimally invasive procedures and the greater imaging accuracy. • If surgeons determine that other procedures, including traditional open surgery, are needed for an individual patient, the open surgery can be done safely and immediately in the same room. St. Francis Medical Center’s new hybrid OR will be predominantly used for cardiac and vascular procedures including these minimally invasive procedures: • Percutaneous (through the skin) valve replacements or repairs such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) that are done instead of open heart surgery • Cardiac catheterization and coronary interventions for highrisk patients • Endovascular procedures (using a catheter inserted through the skin to diagnose and treat vascular disease), such as: o Endovascular repair of aortic aneurysms in the abdomen or chest (EVAR, TEVAR) o Endovascular repair of aortic dissections o Stent graft implantations o Endovascular treatment of peripheral artery disease (PAD) with angioplasty and stenting o Embolization of visceral artery aneurysms and vascular malformations o Hybrid (part open and part endovascular) intervention to treat complex vascular problems The hybrid OR staff includes a multidisciplinary team of highly trained and experienced specialists, including surgeons, interventionalists, nurses, anesthesiologists and technologists.

Steak and Wine

What More Could Your Loved One Want for Valentine’s Day?

OVE IS IN THE AIR! DOES WINE OFTEN PLAY A MAJOR role in your plans for romance this month? Just like romance, wine can be light and sweet, bold and unique or refreshing and new. Your spirit guides have selected an array of sensational sippers for you to enjoy with your sweetheart this holiday. EBERLE SYRAH ROSÉ 2016 There’s a wildness to the region of Paso Robles and this rosé captures it perfectly. Stylistically this rosé is light, fresh and delicate but nothing short of superb. It’s bright on the nose and refreshing in the mouth. The palate is like biting into a crisp, ripe watermelon laced with notes of pomegranate, cherry and gala apple with a spicy finish. The balance of fruit and acid in this wine make it a perfect food pairing partner. A chilled glass of rosé coincides beautifully with a delicious open-faced crispy prosciutto, asparagus and brie grilled cheese. Trust us on this one! SEXUAL CHOCOLATE RED BLEND A perfect blend of Syrah and Zinfandel. The Zinfandel presents a rich, warm feel that could easily be confused with biting into a dark chocolate covered cherry, while the Syrah adds a smooth, deep and refined finish. The luscious chocolate and cherry aromas will leave you feeling highly satisfied as flavors of sweet raisin, milk chocolate, tobacco and freshly cracked pepper wash over your palate and hug you with its velvety mouthfeel. Grab your favorite brand of chocolate, a deep dish pizza and that special someone. This relationship is one for the books. CARNIVAL OF LOVE SHIRAZ 2011 Carnival of Love is just as life should be, a place where everyone wants to be and no one wants to leave. This Australian Shiraz beautifully captures the essence of Molly Dooker. It has elegance, a complete, intense, seamless flavour spectrum; a marvelous mouthfeel and perfect balance. Carnival of Love is fragrant, structured and loaded with finesse and complexity. This stunning, perfumed wine opens with alluring scents evoking roses and potpourri intermingled with toasted black cherries, chocolate and accents of cinnamon and cloves. The palate is smooth and viscous. Black cherries, blueberries, sweet red peppers, and liquorice dance across your taste buds. This is a dense and flamboyant effort that you can’t seem to put down. It’s begging you to enjoy with your favorite person over a nice rare roast beef entree drizzled in a spicy pepper sauce. Enjoy lovebirds! LOVE HAMMER CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2014 A dark and inky cabernet with intense aromatics of black cherry, dark chocolate, mocha, baking spices and clove. This wine delights the palate with an array of cranberry, leather and rum raisin, all wrapped up with powerful fruit tannins that are softened by an explosion of brambly blackberry 18 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

and dark cherry. She finishes with a long, seductive elegance awaiting your next sip. Enjoy this wine at its best after decanting for a patient moment. While you wait for your wine to peak, prepare a couple of juicy Doe’s Eat Place ribeyes that will enhance all flavors of the magnificent Love Hammer. RUINART BLANC DE BLANCS CHAMPAGNE Many people enjoy celebrating romantic evenings with a nice bottle of sparkling wine such as champagne! There is something about the sound of that popping cork and the explosion of effervescent bubbles that spell celebration. The aromatics of this wine are splendid. It’s full-bodied mousse and toasty profile gives way to notes of honey, almond and fragrant peach and green apple. Save the best for last with this one. Savor this beauty with dollops of fresh whipped cream and sliced peaches for an effortlessly decadent final course. Let us be your one-stop-shop! Get that special bottle of wine (or several) and the perfect meal to go with it. Splurge on a fancy dinner in your own kitchen. There are so many other ways to cook steak besides firing up the grill, or giving your steak a beautiful pan sear. New York Strip with Peppercorn and Brandy Cream Sauce is a delicious and romantic entree. Enjoy with delicious sides of oven roasted asparagus and garlic butter mushrooms. Another great, mouthwatering steak entree to enjoy with your loved one is Filet Mignon with MushroomMerlot Gravy. We suggest using the delicious Sand Point Merlot. Red wine and steak will always go hand-in-hand. Washington Wine and Spirits offers the Doe’s Eat Place uncooked steaks and twice baked potatoes for you and yours to indulge on every occasion. So come on by and get your steaks, potatoes, wine and spirits. We thank you for all your continued support for Doe’s Eat Place and Washington Wine and Spirits! We are open Monday-Thursday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm and Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 am-10:00 pm.

6 oz Filet - $9.75 14 oz Bone-In Filet - $39.99 20 oz Ribeye - $21.24 1.5 lb T-Bone - $20.99 2.5 lb Porterhouse - $39.98 2-5 lb Sirloin - $9.99/lb

10 oz Filet - $16.24 1.5 lb Bone In Strip - $20.99 2 lb Bone In Ribeye - $35.98 2 lb T-Bone - $27.98 3 lb Porterhouse - $47.97 Twice Baked Potatoes - $4.99/each

The Power of Love Making a Difference Through Love BY BEATRICE TATEM, PH.D., LPC-S, NCC, ACS

USICIANS SUCH AS LUTHER VANDROSS AND CELINE Dion have sung about the Power of Love, dancers express love through movement, poets write sonnets of love, actors perform acts of love and artist create masterpieces depicting love. Love creatively shapes our lives, radiates through our senses, affects our mood, impacts our attitude, influences our actions, permeates our souls and enhances our spirit. Love is empowering; it gives us energy, motivates, inspires and uplifts. Love impacts our minds and body, guides our hearts and hands allowing us to promote, enact and react to change. Love has the capacity to heal old wounds and cleanse us of any negativity that does not serve us well. Love is so powerful it transcends differences, bridges gaps, connects us and builds relationships. Psychology recognizes the meaning and power of love, our need to be loved and the power of our loving someone else. Love is about connections to ourselves, to other beings and to life itself. Love is said to be the best antidepressant -the more you experience love the less likely you are to experience depression. Feeling loved, being loved and loving ourselves empowers us to love others. Whereas, some loving relationships will last briefly others will last forever. Love comes in many forms and is expressed in a variety of ways-whether it is love for others or love for self. Not to be confused with narcissism, self-love is appreciation for what we have instead of what we don’t have. Whether love is romantic, familial, collegial or friendly there are healthy and unhealthy manners in which we should go about expressing love. I was reminded of this when a young client admitted that she felt bad for calling her grandfather an ugly name. When describing what happened, she said in a quivering voice, “I was so mad yesterday I called my grandfather a crap face, but I didn’t mean it, I love every piece of PaPa and I hope he knows that”. The word love like a young child is small yet big in its meaning and impact. My vision of love has been shaped by the many people that have entered my life, my parents, family members, friends, “sorors,” elders, my clients and community leaders both civic and religious. It is through these relationships that I have experienced the power of love. I envision a world in which people resonate love from their inner being, where people love themselves and each other for who they are, where the love is unconditional. In my opinion, love, especially unconditional love is transformative; love has the power to change us, to heal us 20 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

and the world we function in daily. Unconditional love, appreciation and acceptance helps us see the good in others and unites us despite turbulent times of divisiveness. Perhaps, it is overzealous optimism but I believe love reaches across boundaries and obstacles and allows us to push back from racism, hatred, discrimination, hurt, pain, rejection and ill will. Known to many as the Bishop who officiated the marriage of HRH Prince Henry of Wales and Ms. Meghan Markle, The Most Reverend Michael B. Curry, leader of the Episcopal Church in the United States suggests love is a strength. In his sermon he states, “There’s power in love to help and heal when nothing else can. There’s power in love to lift-up and liberate when nothing else will. There’s power in love to show us the way to live. If you don’t believe me, just stop and imagine. Think and imagine a world where love is the way.” We are living in a time when more than ever there is the need for love. As we endure challenges to humanity there is a desperate need for us to love one another, to bring into our individual awareness and consciousness the feelings, thoughts and ideas of others. We have the potential to attain the kind of love we all dream of; deep intimacy, mutual kindness, real commitment and soul caring. We need to rekindle the power of love that exists in the world for the world. It begins with each of us reaching deep within ourselves and in turn sharing the love we have with others; in essence when you give love you receive love. This year has been coined the year for perfect vision. I encourage all in this year of perfect vision 2020, to be the change you want to see in the world, to be loving towards yourself and others. For being the shortest month of the calendar year (this year we get an extra day), February is filled with a lot of goodness. It is a month set aside for love, it recognizes Black History, celebrates the religious Mardi Gras holiday and houses the Super Bowl. Keep in mind expressions of love extend beyond material gifts exchanged within a single day. Let us allow ourselves to fall in love with one another. May this month, this new year, this new decade be filled with the power of love for us all. Make a point to celebrate the many things that come when you love. With the power of love, from my heart to your heart. For more information about counseling services and outreach programming contact Dr. Beatrice Tatem at Wellness Initiatives, LLC 2485 Tower Drive, Monroe, La 71201, 318-410-1555 or at btatem.bt@gmail.com

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Dr. Henry Zizzi General Surgeon

R. HENRY ZIZZI WAS BORN AND RAISED IN NATCHEZ, Mississippi, where he sparked an interest in medicine and all things science-related at a very young age. His first jobs were spent working in hospitals as an orderly or alongside respiratory therapists, and through this experience Dr. Zizzi realized he loved the environment and healing those in need. He was interested in learning the mechanics of the human body, and Dr. Zizzi transformed his interests into a successful career in the Northeast Louisiana area. He is a graduate of Northeast Louisiana University, and continued his education at Louisiana State University School of Medicine in Shreveport, where he also completed his residency. During his time in medical school, surgery particularly caught his attention when he realized what one person can do with two hands. Surgery is an art form that requires the surgeon be adept and dexterous, and as a selfprofessed perfectionist, Dr. Zizzi knew he had a talent for operating. He ultimately chose general surgery because it allowed him to treat conditions of a wide variety and gave him the opportunity to hone his skills, as well as helping and potentially curing his patients. Though his residency was stressful and required a tremendous amount of training, Dr. Zizzi never considered any other field of medicine. For the last 21 years, Dr. Zizzi has been practicing General Surgery in the Monroe/West Monroe area. After completing his training, he joined the practice of Drs. William Ferguson and Tommy Lolley, who have both since retired. Dr. Zizzi believes in more than just treating his patients â&#x20AC;&#x201C; he leads with his heart, as he knows many people walk into his office scared and concerned. Even minor procedures deserve a surgeonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s utmost attention to detail, and his experience enables him to perform surgeries with precision, accuracy, and trust between him and his patients. Dr. Zizzi takes a significant amount of time getting to know each individual while answering questions and alleviating concerns. He often uses diagrams or sketches to educate patients so that they know exactly what to expect before entering the operating room. Dr. Zizzi treats his patients with respect and compassion, as he understands how important the doctor-patient relationship is to oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s well-being before and after surgery. If you ask his patients, the quality that distinguishes Dr. Zizzi is his bedside manner. He spends as much time as necessary with each patient and answers any questions they may have. Patients

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appreciate the consistency in his office, and they often remark that he is so thorough in his explanations that he answers their questions before they can even ask them. His main goal in an office visit is to keep the patient informed and comfortable, as he is well aware that the experience of undergoing a surgical procedure is hard enough. As a general surgeon, Dr. Zizzi is trained to operate on multiple areas of the body, and the most common procedures he performs involve the gastrointestinal tract, such as the stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, appendix, and gallbladder. Theses gastrointestinal procedures are most commonly performed with a minimally invasive laparoscopic technique. He also performs thyroid and parathyroid surgery as well as weight loss surgery. Along with these procedures, he treats benign and malignant diseases of the breast, which is a significant part of his practice. Outside of the office, Dr. Zizzi has a variety of interests besides medicine. He married his best friend, Deborah, and he has five children whom he adores. He enjoys studying and speaking foreign languages as well as traveling to countries outside the United States to practice his skills. Dr. Zizzi is also the lead singer of Code Blue and the Flatliners, having performed with this locally popular group since its inception in 2002. He actually attended NLU on a choir scholarship, which was a very fulfilling part of his college education. To top it off, he has a passion for cooking, especially Italian cuisine, and his family says his homemade pasta is to die for. Dr. Zizzi has a way with people, and he treats his patients how he would want a physician to treat his own family members. While not every procedure is life or death, anxiety due to having surgery is real, and Dr. Zizzi takes the time to reassure his patients that he will take care of them to the best of his ability. With his hands, he heals the body, and with his heart, he builds long-lasting relationships with his patients. Dr. Henry Zizzi 102 Thomas Road, Suite 203 West Monroe, Louisiana 318-387-1812

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With This Home I Thee Wed The Perfect Backyard Wedding BY BRANDI CHAMBLESS

OR THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS,TALK HAS BEEN SWIRLING in the film community about the potential remake or sequel of the 1991 blockbuster film Father of the Bride starring Steve Martin, Hollywood’s golden comedic timing actor. Here we are almost thirty years since Howard and Franck transformed the Banks’ homestead into wedding central and today’s DIY backyard weddings are one of the hottest things going in the wedding industry. Though the sound of “backyard wedding” would initially indicate that the big event is sure to be cheaper, no-fuss, and excluded from the wedding industry is a misconception in the very least. Just ask hometown newlyweds Sadie Robertson and Christian Huff who transformed their family’s beloved playground, the backyard tennis court, into a garden sanctuary that was customized for their nuptials. This incredible feat with tent reception incorporated teams of planning that included the best photographers, musicians, and grandmothers with their special touch. While everyone does not have “grandma’s touch” or extra artificial turf laying around, there are some key ideas to look for when choosing a property for a backyard wedding. Love is in the air at John Rea Realty, and we are going to discuss the to-do list of getting married at home without becoming as irrational and certainly not as insane as one George Banks. First, Sadie and Christian had the right idea when they chose a location that held something in common. The tennis court was a place where they enjoyed each other’s company prior to the wedding, so the idea was to create their own magical space to exchange their vows. There will never be a memory to come on the home tennis court that will not occur on the foundation of that vow exchange and all it represented in the midst of God, family, and friends. While there are plenty of aesthetically-based reasons to choose one property over another for an at home wedding, one of the most overlooked factors is that of parking. Are the neighbors friendly with you? Are you friends? Is the street safe or wide enough? Would you need a permit? Would the neighbors even be present at a ceremony if it weren’t being held in your backyard? These are all questions someone should ask when considering a property in order to avoid mayhem in the middle of the magic. A water feature will never fail when it comes to backyard weddings —just as long as it is quiet enough so that vows can be heard. If not there, than a beautiful deck that overlooks a wooded area is ideal for intimate ceremonies. 24 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Every backyard ceremony should ideally have someone involved who understands electricity and is not intimidated by a fuse box. This will be necessary for planning lighting options that are a must in lieu of thousands of dollars in additional floral investment. Is there a place for the band to plug in? Where will the food be set up? Is there a need for electrical outlets there? If a property isn’t logistically sound for providing properly distributed power, then it is a no go. The landscape and grounds can serve as substitutes for renting candelabras and purchasing expensive floral arrangements. What is not to love about a dance floor nestled amidst plush live greenery and flowering shrubs that have been perfectly manicured? Dónde está el baño: code for where is thy bathroom? This is a biggie. What good are four hundred guests crammed into any area when there is no place for, eh hem, a little nose powdering. Though the bathroom situation can be controlled and predicted, there is something that is truly out of everyone’s control: The weather. In this case your property must have a strong plan B in the case of a rare hailstorm or Louisiana ice storm in spite of your salivating photographer. There are also intangibles that can deem a property suitable for the big day. First of all, weddings involve family. Family involves people. People involve feelings. Feelings are amplified by weddings. There once was a wedding singer who aptly said, “I’d prefer to sing at a good funeral any day instead of a wedding. Everyone appreciates you and there are no Momzillas.” Ramped up wedding day expectations aren’t the only feelings that factor into whether a property is going to be the right choice. There may be unresolved conflict, blended families, or cultural clashes added to the mix. The number one intangible associated with a potential wedding property is whether it is neutral ground enough for the family involved. Change the turf if necessary! Something else to think about when selecting a property is where out of town guests will stay. Let’s face it, remote islands are beautiful, but grandma cannot crash in a hammock. A wedding at home is not for everyone. Some “fathers of the bride” might choose to avoid the hassle by paying the layaway deposit on a venue where all the stress can be handled by someone else’s sweat equity. But for those who can stomach the stress, the home wedding can provide a wonderland from another time and another place that is never to be revisited, but always remembered, once upon a time.

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C A S TER

CHI CO RY:

HOW

BAK E

THE

PERFEC T

C AKE BOSSES

Joel and Jordan Myers, owners and operators of Caster & Chicory have perfected the art of baking king cakes.

KING CAKE

A R T I C L E B Y M E R E D I T H M C K I N N I E A N D P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y K E L LY M O O R E C L A R K

Joel and Jordan Myers, owners and operators of Caster & Chicory, know baking. They have perfected their tricks of the trade over the last 14 years. Working in tandem, the parents of seven have listened to their customers, creating products locals love. Mardi Gras season keeps them busy, making thousands of king cakes for their loyal customers. Here the Myers provide details for how to bake a traditional, New Orleans’ style king cake in your own kitchen.

PR E PA R AT I O N Following a recipe for a good brioche dough is best for king cakes. For a one-pound recipe, about 3 ½ cups of flour is needed. Whisk in your dry ingredients; then slowly pour in water and then oil. Using a wooden spoon, stir in circles for at least 2 minutes. Mix dough by hand, if possible. Jordan and Joel only recently started using a commercial mixer, as they now make thousands of king cakes each season. But in smaller quantities, the dough is best made hands-on. And don’t be afraid of a sticky dough. Often recipes will suggest adding more flour throughout for a smoother consistency, and it’s not necessary. Yes, use flour when rolling and forming, but otherwise embrace the sticky dough for the best final product.

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Press dough out by hand and then roll into long strips, 36 inches long and 7 inches wide, for a traditional ovalshaped king cake. Sprinkle large strips heavily with cinnamon and sugar mixture, liberally covering the dough. Using a pizza cutter, divide the strips in half longways. If prepping a king cake without a filling, then crimp the dough longways, pinching together the sides. If adding a filling, spread over the cinnamon and sugar mixture before crimping. Joel and Jordan suggest adding any filling before baking. This trick keeps the moisture in the dough. A common complaint of customers is a dry king cake, and this trick keeps the king cakes moist. For novice bakers,

a 15-ounce can of pie filling should adequately cover one king cake. While some bakers form cakes in a tube-shape, Jordan prefers a braid or a twist. When working with the dough, sometimes the dough will stick to the work surface. Use a metal spatula to push flour underneath the dough to release it. Create a loose braid, so the dough rises outward instead of upward. Otherwise, your king cake can end up looking more like a bundt cake. Continue to work the dough stretching it back out to its original length before forming the oval shape and placing the dough on the baking sheet. Then let the bread rise for at least an hour on the counter. This time allows the dough to build its own natural preservative.

BAKING Bake at 325-350 degrees for 20-30 minutes and allow bread to completely cool. Cut a small slit in the side of the dough after baking to insert the baby or coin. The king cake originated in France, and often a coin or bean was buried in the cake symbolizing one’s search for treasure. Jordan and Joel prefer a large plastic coin to keep the cakes safe for child consumption. Make the frosting from real butter and allow the frosting to completely cool so the glaze is not too thin. Decorate however you wish. Colored crunchy sugar is a popular topping, but the Myers prefer jimmies or donut sprinkles. Many customers have an aversion to

the typical crunchy sugar and/or food coloring, so the jimmies are a safe alternative. TIPS Patience is essential. You can’t rush the process. Jordan allows for a long fermentation, using less yeast than others might suggest. Allowing the dough to ferment adds flavor and acts as a natural preservative, so none have to be added to the dough.

Caster & Chicory’s Bake Shop is located off of Antique Alley in West Monroe. The Beignet Food Truck changes locations. For a listing of where they will be, check their Facebook page or call them at 208.669.0107.

Fillings are best made from scratch, as the best flavors come from fresh fruits and ingredients. But for novice bakers, canned pie filling is perfectly acceptable and easy to work into the dough. We wish everyone a Happy Mardi Gras season!

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DATE NIGHT

Think outside the box this Valentine’s Day, and impress her with an assortment of date night gifts that she is sure to love. PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK

Add large long stem gourmet chocholate-dipped strawberries from Thurman’s Food Factory

Inside Our Date Night Box

Champagne flutes from Material Things. Heart-topped cupcake from Thurman’s Food Factory. Wine available at Washington Wine & Spirits. Gift card from Doe’s Eat Place. Add a board game for a fun night in, popcorn for movie night and her favorite chocolates.

BAYOUCOCK TAILS

LOVE POTIONS

Fall in love with these crafted cocktails from local eateries. Mix it up this Valentine’s Day with a signature drink. PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK STYLED BY TAYLOR BENNETT

Freda’s Dawn

Available at Kahlo Tapas & Tequila 2 oz tequila 1/4 cup of orange juice Splash of hibiscus tea Mix orange juice and tequila, then fill glass with ice. Finish with a splash of hibiscus tea.

Cupid Martini

Available at Waterfront Grill 1 oz strawberry vodka 1 oz cointreau 1 oz cranberry juice 1/2 oz simple syrup Combine all ingredients in a shaker and strain through ice. Rim with sugar and garnish with strawberry.

Peartini

ValenThyme

Combine all ingredients in a shaker and strain through ice. Garnish with lemon peel and pear.

Combine gin, lemon juice and simple syrup in a shaker and strain through ice. Top with sparkling rosé. Add thyme sprigs and blackberries to garnish.

Available at Doe’s Eat Place 1 oz Wheatley vodka 1 oz lemon juice 1/2 oz pear syrup

2 oz gin 2 oz sparkling rosé 1 oz lemon juice 1/2 oz blackberry simple syrup

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Festival Season Kicks Off Mardi Gras, Beer Crawl, Railroad Fest and More in Downtown Ruston

ITH THE ARRIVAL OF A NEW YEAR COMES THE arrival of a new festival season in Ruston, Louisiana. Kicking off in February, this season will bring some exciting new events, community favorites, and plenty of festival fun in between. Here’s a look at what you can expect in Downtown Ruston over the next few months. The festivities will start early this year, with the Jazzin’ It Up Mardi Gras Parade & Festival on Saturday, February 22nd. This daylong festival is a fundraising event hosted by Junior Auxiliary at Railroad Park in the heart of Downtown Ruston. Now in its third year, the Jazzin’ It Up Mardi Gras Parade & Festival has quickly gained recognition as a safe and family-friendly Mardi Gras celebration in North Louisiana. In addition to live entertainment on the Railroad Park stage, festival goers will also find craft vendors, a jambalaya cook-off, food trucks, a storefront window decoration contest, as well as a kid zone and selfie booth. And of course, you won’t want to miss JA’s bigger and better Mardi Gras Parade, which will roll through downtown at 6:00 p.m. Following the parade, there will be entertainment by the Caravan Band on the Railroad Park stage, as well as a cash bar for adults enjoying the festivities. More info on this event can be found at jaofruston.org. Laissez les bon temps rouler! In the spirit of celebration, you’ll also want to check out the all new Downtown Ruston Beer Crawl on Friday, March 13th from 6-9 p.m. We’ll be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a walking beer tasting event through Downtown Ruston. Participants will walk from business-tobusiness, discovering craft beer, snacks, entertainment, and special deals along the way. You’ll want to hang around downtown after the event at one of the official after-party locations, where you’ll find live entertainment and food and drink deals all night long. If you missed the sell-out Wine Walk event last fall, then you definitely want to be sure to grab your tickets for this new downtown event while you can. For more information, including ticket details, visit the Downtown Ruston Facebook page. The year 2020 marks the 125th Anniversary of Louisiana Tech University. In celebration of this amazing milestone, Louisiana Tech Alumni Association has planned a 125th Anniversary Celebration Weekend on April 24-26, 2020. To help welcome alumni from all over the country back to their alma mater, Downtown Ruston will 34 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

promote special deals all weekend long at local shops and restaurants. Downtown will also provide a shuttle service for alumni to help transport them from on-campus activities to the thriving shopping, dining, and entertainment options of Downtown Ruston. For more information on the 125th Anniversary Celebration Weekend, visit latechalumni.org. And of course, our festival season in Ruston wouldn’t be complete without the 4th Annual Railroad Festival and Makers Fair happening on May 2nd. Downtown Ruston will be alive with good music, good art and good times. This event has quickly become a staple of the downtown event schedule, featuring an amazing music line up on the Railroad Park stage, food trucks, kids activities, and makers and artists from all over the state selling their works and items at the Makers Fair. There are some fun things in the works for the 2020 Railroad Fest that you won’t want to miss! Stay tuned and be sure to follow Railroad Festival on Facebook and Instagram for event updates. If you really want to plan ahead, you can add the 70th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival to your calendar on June 26-27, 2020. By far the longest standing festival in Ruston, the Peach Festival offers something for the entire family. From an eclectic arts & crafts show to headlining entertainment to kids activities, there is plenty of fun to be had by all. More information on this year’s event can be found at louisianapeachfestival.org. With so many festivals and celebrations taking place over the next several months, it’s easy to see why Ruston has become known as a hub for arts and culture in North Louisiana. For more information on upcoming Downtown Ruston events, visit facebook. com/downtownrustonla.

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ENLIGHTENED

LIVING

In many ways, Dr. Pamela Higgins Saulsberry’s entire career has been a reflection of her life. Born to parents who felt the sting of discrimination firsthand, and then growing up through the turbulent civil rights era taught Pamela the need for finding a path to understanding among -- and about -these critical issues of our times. Pamela has spent her life helping others to achieve dignity, regain lost hope, and move forward with their lives. Because of her determination to make a positive impact on the lives of countless others, Dr. Pamela Higgins Saulsberry is our February Bayou Icon.

Article by Georgiann Potts and Photography by Kelly Moore Clark

PAMELA HIGGINS SAULSBERRY has seen it all. In many ways, her life story is the story of the civil rights movement in America. From her childhood watching a father working 16 hours a day at 2 jobs because his ethnicity limited the opportunities that should have been afforded him based on his distinguished military service record and education, to the moment in 2008 when she stood before the ULM Summer Commencement’s graduating class giving the formal commencement address, Pamela and her family have personally experienced the highs and lows of our country’s struggles with race relations. Each of those experiences has influenced Pamela, helping to mold her into the strong woman she is today. One gets the impression that she has learned from every experience life has given her --- good or bad. Pamela has devoted much of her professional career to social work, doing what she can, where she can, to help others. Such work has brought her into contact with countless individuals whose lives were at a crossroads, and she has worked to help them overcome their challenges. Much of her success in helping others is derived from the lessons she has learned in her own life. For example, when asked recently what was the most memorable experience of her childhood, her answer was unexpected, direct, and brutally honest. “Having a cousin die when she was just nine years old from a domestic violence situation on her block when I was

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12 is something that I shall never forget,” Pamela says. “One spouse shot at another and the bullet hit her as she played in front of her house a block away. I realized then that anyone could die at any age. It was devastating for the family and for me.” That tragedy not only awakened at an early age Pamela’s awareness of the mortality that we all face, but also helped her to begin to understand the need to help families in crisis. As she grew into adulthood, Pamela developed a true passion for helping others that has served her well. PARENTS SET THE EXAMPLE Pamela’s parents were remarkable individuals. Her father, Otis Marcus Higgins, Sr., was born in Oklahoma and grew up in rural, predominately black towns there. He had completed 2 years at Langston University when he was drafted into the United States Army to serve in WWII. His distinguished service in that war earned him the Bronze Star. Gladys Louise Hall, Pamela’s mother, was born and reared in Denver, Colorado. She graduated from Manual High School in Denver and then married Otis and began homemaking. She worked in her home until the last of their 5 children (one son and 4 girls – including a set of twin girls) entered school fulltime. At that time, she began working at various jobs, eventually retiring from the City and County of Denver’s Housing Authority.

hen Otis received an honorable City Council). Her favorite sport was track and “I’ve always discharge from the Army, he faced field, but she also played basketball and softball. gravitated the harsh reality of discrimination. She even found time to serve as a representative Even with his service record and on the student government association and as a towards those education, he was denied jobs that both qualified safety patrol officer while at Columbine. who appeared to him for. This reality was true for so many at that During this time Pamela landed her first time, but Pamela’s father refused to let those job independent of her family. She worked at a need help. I just blocks stop him. He worked two jobs for the next fast food ice cream shop that sold the usual --22 years, putting in 16 hours a day at Gates Rubber hamburgers, fries, and – of course – ice cream. liked the feeling Company and Lowry Air Force Base. Eventually Later on, she also worked at the Fashion Bar (now I received from Pamela’s father became a postal worker, and known as Stage), and even did a stint as a long reduced his workload to a single job requiring 8 distance operator for Mountain Bell --- all summer being of assistance hours. jobs before she graduated from Colorado State to someone.” Both of her parents were extremely intelligent, University (CSU). according to Pamela, and both set examples of Pamela enrolled at CSU primarily because it dignity and hard work for their children. Her offered a degree in social work. Pamela recalls that father would speak with his children often about it was her mother who first told her that there was dealing with a social environment that was undervaluing black such a thing as a social worker – a person whose job was to help people. He passed away in the fall of 2008, and his last civic act other people. Her mother’s sister had worked in the field. After was to vote for candidate Barrack Obama for president. He said considering several options for a career --- mathematician, dancer, at the time that he never thought he would live to see that happen model, and teacher, among them --- Pamela selected social work. in the America he loved. One particular lesson that he taught his She knew this was the path for her when she graduated high school children has remained with Pamela. She remembers him saying and says that she has never looked back. “I’ve always gravitated often, “Some people believe bumblebees are not supposed to fly. towards those who appeared to need help,” she says. “I just liked Bumblebees don’t care; they fly anyway. Society doesn’t believe the feeling I received from being of assistance to someone.” that black people are supposed to achieve anything. Black people She loved sports and was probably good enough to earn don’t care, we do it anyway.” a sports scholarship, but during those days there were very few All of his children listened, and all of them excelled. Pamela’s scholarships available for women. Following her parents’ examples, brother is an Air Force veteran, former Morse Code translator, and she found another way that she could use her athleticism and IBM administrator. Her twin sisters are, as Pamela describes, as participate. She tried out for cheerleader and become one of 2 who different as twins can possibly be. Gilda retired as an administrator were the first non-white cheerleaders for the university. During for the Colorado Workforce Commission following a career with that time she flew in an airplane for the first time, amazed that CSU the City and County of Denver. Her twin, Wilda, is a retired postal actually paid for students to go cheer out-of-state. “There were no worker who previously worked for Denver public schools as scholarships for cheering at that time,” Pamela remembers. “This community liaison. Sister Cynthia is a retired high school guidance was considered extracurricular. We got to travel with the teams counselor who spent 14 years in Germany and England working though with expenses paid!” with the Department of Defense Schools. While at CSU, Pamela came under the influence of Dr. Owisoka. Pamela’s mother had, as Pamela describes, “ . . . tremendous Dr. Owisoka served as her advisor and also taught several of her practical organizational skills.” She taught her children the social work courses. When it was time to do an internship, Dr. importance of reading. Because their schoolbooks rarely had black Owisoka served as her field intern supervisor. “She saw things in people in them, Pamela’s mother made certain that her children’s me that I didn’t see in myself, like a dedication to young people,” leisure reading did. As a result of her mother’s efforts, Pamela read Pamela remembers. Paul Lawrence Dunbar, Langston Hughes, James Weldon Johnson, Two courses as an undergraduate were particular favorites. Maya Angelou, Angela Davis, and other important black figures. Pamela loved anthropology so much that after taking one course “I looked at what they accomplished through what struggles they as an elective, she ended up minoring in the field. An avid reader had, and knew I could and should do the same,” Pamela explains. of National Geographic magazine when in high school, Pamela loved learning about human societies and cultures and how they EARLY JOBS AND EDUCATION developed. The other class that she particularly enjoyed was Pamela’s first job for pay was to go around the block every Special Topics in which students were allowed to choose a topic Saturday morning to her grandmother’s home to get her laundry they were especially interested in and do research in it. Pamela so that her mother could wash it. Because her grandmother worked chose interracial adoptions, an innovative concept at the time. as a domestic cleaning Union Railroad trains, her work clothes When Pamela graduated college, she worked as a community were heavy denim, too hard to hand wash. Pamela made 50 cents liaison in Denver at a local junior high school. Here she began to for this, which she readily describes as “big money” back then. She work in community-based programs for adolescents part-time and also worked for her uncle ironing the pillowcases that he would she loved it! She also became a relief houseparent at a home for girls give the passengers on the train. She made 10 cents per pillowcase. that she counts as a wonderful learning experience. It was to instill She attended Wyman and Columbine Elementary schools and in her a desire to continue working with young people whenever then Smiley Junior High. Her high school years were spent at East she could. “I have always been interested in the interactions of Denver High School (now an official Denver Historic Landmark so people,” Pamela explains. “ I therefore looked for opportunities to designated by the Denver Landmark Commission and the Denver do so in my first work experiences.” 38 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Volunteerism in support of the community is a cornerstone of Pamela’s life. She has given her time to such groups as Empower Families to Live Well Louisiana Council State of Louisiana; United Way Read, Learn, Succeed; Masur Museum of Art Board of Directors; Christopher’s Youth Center Board of Directors; Swanson Center for Youth; GO Care Board of Directors; Extra Mile Board of Directors; Northeast Louisiana Sickle Cell Foundation; and the Ouachita Parish Police Jury Commission. Clearly, Pamela understands the importance of working hard, having learned that not only from her parents’ examples, but also from her own life experiences. She earned her Ph.D. from Jackson State University while teaching fulltime – quite a feat! “That took every ounce of fortitude I had to keep going and not quit,” she remembers. As her career developed, Pamela also earned LSCW-BACS (Licensed Clinical Social Worker – Board Approved Clinical Supervisor) credentials to go with that terminal degree.

AN OUTSTANDING CAREER IN SOCIAL WORK Over the years, Pamela has amassed an enviable career that focused on her singular passion of wanting to help others. On the basis of her experience and qualifications, she has worked as a consultant for several important groups – Office of Youth Development and Workforce Investment Board, Foster and Adoptive Family Resource Center of the ULM Social Work Department, Monroe City School Safe Schools/Healthy Schools Program, and the Delta Regional Authority. Pamela says quickly, however, that her favorite work experiences have been those in the classroom, working directly with students. She has taught at Grambling State University’s Social Work program as an adjunct professor, and at ULM where she is a full professor. “In the beginning, my encouragement came from my students,” Pamela explains. “They were so happy to have me there at the university. That made me believe that I could find purpose there.” Today, Pamela has been at the University of Louisiana at Monroe for 42 years, working daily to help students and others get their lives on track. She is currently the Director of School of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Professor of Social Work. Even with this demanding job, she still finds time to volunteer in her community and to share her expertise wherever she can. She has loved being able to touch so many students’ lives, to serve the community, and to be a role model for others. For her work – professional and volunteer -- she has earned countless awards and honors, each reflecting her passion for helping others. Among the awards Pamela has earned are the Foundation Award for Excellence in Service given by ULM in 2017, Families and Children Award given by the State of Louisiana in 2014, Delta Sorority Woman of FIRE Award for Community Service in 2014, Association of Black Social Workers Humanitarian of the Year by the North Louisiana Regional Chapter in 2003, and the CAMEO Award for Outstanding Leadership in Education from the March of Dimes in 2003. 40 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

FAMILY TIES While her career has focused on helping others, Pamela has also spent a lot of time focusing on her two children and three grandchildren. Although they are no longer married, Pamela refers to her former husband as her “Wasband” and they remain close friends. Pamela’s son works for Vantage using his considerable internet technology (IT) skills to forge his own career. Pamela describes him as the “strong, silent type.” Her daughter is more verbal. A gifted writer, she works in social media/marketing with the Morris Bart law offices. She is also an active blogger/influencer. Pamela also revels in the joys of grandmotherhood. She is blessed with three grandchildren, all of whom are delights to her. Her granddaughter is a junior at Grambling State and both beautiful and academically strong like her grandmother. She is currently Miss Junior, and was previously Miss October. Pamela’s twin grandsons are now high school freshmen. Their interests at the moment are IT and sports. When asked what she thinks her life will be like in five years, Pamela was quick to respond. “I will be doing grandmotherly things with my grands, and traveling to places when I want to,” she says with a smile. “But I hope that I will mostly be doing what I want, when I want.” A STELLAR MOMENT In the 2008 Summer Commencement at ULM, Pamela stood at the podium and delivered the commencement address to the graduating class. This singular honor meant much to both Pamela and her parents. Her father especially enjoyed seeing his daughter at the pinnacle of her career stand before those hundreds gathered, urging them to face their futures with courage and dignity. Years ago, Pamela’s mother taught her daughter a short poem that Pamela has never forgotten: “Love many, trust a few, and always paddle your own canoe.” Clearly Pamela has paddled her own canoe carefully, fearlessly, and with a determination to succeed that has served her well. Pamela has lived much of her life based on an inspiring quote from one of her favorite writers and civil rights activists, Maya Angelou. Angelou wrote, “We can learn to see each other and see ourselves in each other and recognize that human beings are more alike than we are unalike.” Thanks to Dr. Pamela Higgins Saulsberry’s efforts, many have learned the wisdom in Angelou’s sentiment.

Serving the Monroe Area For Over Seventy Years

NDOUBTEDLY, ANYONE WHO HAS TRAVELED Highway 165 in Monroe has taken note of the large, stately, red brick building with the imposing bell tower. What many do not realize is the significant history of the Christus St. Joseph’s Nursing Home and Assisted Living structure or the amount of love and care that flows through its hallways and rooms. “There is something truly special here. This facility has cared for multiple generations of the same families. To me there is no higher compliment than a family returning here as each aging generation needs our services.“ Christus St. Joseph has recently gone through some new renovations, but it is still the same loving place it has been known to be. Christus St. Joseph’s team is truly one-of-a-kind. This faithbased home strives to make every one of their residents feel like family. The Cross on the outside is a perfect reflection of the love and care it provides on the inside. The care and love that they pour into their “job” each day is absolutely amazing. The staff of Christus St. Joseph makes every single person who walks through their doors feel welcomed and greeted with smile. They make sure to help anyone who needs assistance, and if one person can’t help them, they make sure to find someone who can. The friendly staff doesn’t just do their job, they go above and beyond to make sure their residents are comfortable, smiling and most importantly always making them feel like family. While some may view nursing homes and assisted living facilities in a less than positive light, Christus St. Joseph strives to be a beacon of hope and fulfilled living for its residents and their families. While some patients sometimes do go to their facility to help them finish well, but they have so much more to offer. At Christus St. Joseph, long and short term stays along with assisted living apartment style rooms are available depending on each person’s needs Some of the few things that Christus St. Joseph offers is: IV care, this gets the resident out of the hospital and into a more comfortable environment. IV treatments can be administered just as well or even better at Christus St. Joseph as in the hospital. Wound therapy is another service provided. Utilizing a wound care physician-based group has many advantages in care facilities. For one, residents build a trusting relationship with their providers, who come weekly to assess and treat their wounds. They make sure their patient is in the most comfortable spot they can possibly be in.

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Christus St. Joseph makes it their goal to provide the best quality of life possible for their residents. Providing daily physical therapy classes for their residents to be the best they can be is what they strive to do each and every day. They provide an amazing outside garden that has many stops along its path with different exercises to keep the residents active, along with getting them outside and enjoying some fresh air. While they are outside, they can also enjoy a nice sitting area in the back with a beautiful view of the bayou. That soothing water view is sure to make anyone who sees it smile. The staff and nurses do their best to make their residents feel like family. Depression and loneliness is one factor that comes into play more often than not when dealing with this stage of life. After being independent for so long, being placed in a home is a life changing chapter. After acclimating to life at Christus St. Joseph’s, most residents don’t want to leave. Their number one goal over anything else is making everyone feel special. Creating and maintaining relationships with their residents is crucial to making their stays great. One resident said, ”It doesn’t really feel like a nursing home, it’s more like a dormitory, and we are all back in college again.” The staff takes the residents on outings to keep them active and to get them out of their rooms. They recently took a trip to Calhoun to see the Christmas lights. Group outings are always fun, but sometimes the residents want to do something for themselves. The staff at Christus St. Joseph makes sure to let them do just that. Taking someone to their favorite store to buy something special for themselves is just another way that Christus St. Joseph makes their residents feel special and offers a sense of freedom. Christus St. Joseph’s recently donated their old beds from the renovations to a group in Haiti and the Bayou DeSiard Street Homeless Shelter. They also donated their night stands, dressers and over-the-bed side tables to First West Church for someone in need to use. This faith-based home truly has a giving heart and is willing to care and provide for anyone in need. The community is welcome to join Christus St. Joseph everyday except Saturday at 4:30 PM for Mass. Please join us!

BAYOUFLOR ALS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK

KNOW THE ROSE

Taylor Bennett teamed up with Flower General by Carlstedtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for this floral guide. These multihued beauties are a few of our favorites. STYLED BY TAYLOR BENNETT

Pink Mondial Rose

Perfect for the girl that loves everything vintage, this rose has dusty-pink petals with a hint of green, and ruffled edges.

Red Mikado Spray Rose

For the lady who loves red, these spray roses are classic and beautiful. Each stem has multiple blooms, which distinguishes it from the red long stem rose.

Hot Lady Rose

Tangerine Spray Rose

Add a tangy touch to your Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day with this hot-hued spray rose. These roses feature unique shades of orange that swirl into perfect rosette blooms.

This rose has a large head that opens into a spectacular bloom with large, rounded petals. The dark pink hued rose is perfectly suited for the woman who loves extravagance.

Topaz Rose

This hot pink rose is great for the sassy girl in your life. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vivid pink hued petals shimmer with beauty. It features a medium head with lots of petals. *We love this rose for a daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bouquet.

Free Spirit Rose

If your Valentine likes to break all the rules, the Free Spirit is the rose for her. The vibrant and wavy-edged petals come in persimmon, gold, and a range of pinks that resemble the swirling skirts of a flamenco dancer.

Alabaster Rose

The Alabaster is a long-lasting white rose with a hint of pale yellow in the center. White roses symbolize the pureness of new love and unity.

All of the featured flowers are available for purchase by the public at Carlstedtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Monroe.

LOVE TIC TAC TOE

How to Make the Board

Break graham crackers into large squares. Pipe royal icing into a tic-tac-toe grid. Sort four conversation hearts by colors, with each player having a different color. Have fun playing love tic-tac-toe.

Think outside the box. This edible tic-tactoe is the perfect game to play with littles this Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK STYLED BY TAYLOR BENNETT

Let your kids draw their own icing grid onto the crackers. A pouch of cookie icing makes things easy.

BAYOUCR AFTS

LOVE BUGS Let your little ones get creative with this DIY activity kit for Valentine’s Day. Your love bugs will adore this googly eyed project. PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK STYLED BY TAYLOR BENNETT

How to Make Love Bugs What you’ll need: Glue gun Pompoms Large foam heart Googly eyes Small foam heart sticks

Place two glue dots on top of the pompom and secure small foam heart sticks to make antenna (substitute with pipe cleaners if you can’t find). Next glue googly eyes *choose one or two. To finish your love bug, glue the pompom on the large felt heart with pointed end facing backwards. To give as a Valentine’s gift, put all the materials in a jar with a love note.

This inexpensive activity is a fun STEM project for a large group.

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B AYOU H E A LT H

The Roseto Effect

Learn how to promote the stress reducing effects of oxytocin and create your own Roseto effect. ARTICLE BY SHANNON DAHLUM

ring the mid 1900’s, cardiovascular disease was growing exponentially and was the most common cause of death for men in their 50’s and 60’s in this country. Between 1954 and 1961, however, the small town of Roseto, Pennsylvania was an anomaly, as there were almost no heart attacks among its inhabitants. The citizens of Roseto during this time period were first generation Italian American immigrants who commonly smoked unfiltered cigarettes, drank wine with abandon, and dined on rich foods. The men were laborers and often contracted illnesses from the dust and gases they were exposed to in the slate quarries where they worked. The unusually low incidence of heart disease in this community, paired with the seemingly unhealthy lifestyle led there, was quite perplexing. This community caught the attention of Dr. Stewart Wolf, who was the head of Medicine at the University of Oklahoma at the time. He went on to research why the citizens there seemed to be practically resistant to cardiovascular disease, and in 1963 he published his study. What he finally discovered was that their genetics, physical environment, diet, or exercise had nothing to do with what was protecting them against heart disease. What Roseto had that most other towns in America didn’t have was a strong sense of community. The people in Roseto lived very close together, gathered for meals in the evenings, and revered the elderly. The women cooked meals together, everyone ate and drank wine at a communal table, and most importantly, they enjoyed each other’s company. They weren’t in competition with one another, but rather existed to support each another. This strong sense of community was responsible for diminishing stress and heart disease, despite an otherwise stressful way of life. The decreased risk of cardiovascular disease as a result of living in a tight-knit community has been known as the “Roseto effect” ever since. 50 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

When you feel supported and connected to others, your body releases oxytocin, a feel-good hormone that’s also known as the love hormone. Mothers release oxytocin during birth and while nursing their babies, and both men and women release it during sex. This hormone helps draw you closer to your children and your partner by promoting bonding. But you also release oxytocin anytime you feel a sense of community or connection with others, and even with yourself. It’s now known that stress is an enormous risk factor not only for developing cardiovascular disease, but for developing any of the chronic lifestyle diseases that currently plague this country. Chronic stress leads to elevated levels of cortisol, which leads to inflammation and disease. What’s so significant about oxytocin is that it works in opposition of cortisol. When oxytocin rises, cortisol diminishes. This is why maintaining a sense of connection is so vital to your health; it reduces stress. Humans crave physical contact, and according to “The Happiness Project,” by Gretchen Rubin, holding a hug for six seconds or more will flood your body with oxytocin. Have you ever been feeling down in the dumps or stressed out and just wanted a hug? This is why! That hug releases oxytocin, which decreases cortisol and makes you feel better. If a six minute hug feels awkward to you, though, don’t worry. You can connect in smaller ways, like making eye contact and smiling at someone, and still receive the benefits. What’s really fascinating is that connecting with other people doesn’t seem to be a requirement; making connections with any living thing can increase your oxytocin. Caring for or petting an animal, forgiving yourself or giving yourself a massage, and even tending to plants can all provide a sense of connection and purpose that will increase your stress-relieving hormones. All interactions don’t equal connection. You can interact with loved ones, with pets, with plants and with yourself without experiencing an increase in oxytocin at all. They key to true connection isn’t about the interactions themselves, but in your intent behind those interactions. Some simple ways to boost oxytocin: Snuggle with loved ones. Volunteer your time or help someone in need. Tell someone how much they mean to you. Pay someone a compliment. Do anything that allows you to offer to receive support. Give yourself a foot massage or a facial. Relax in a warm bath.

If you do something for you spouse while feeling resentful or expecting something in return, you’ll actually increase your stress. If you go out of your way to do something for them because you genuinely want to care for them and make them feel loved, then you’ll reap the benefits, too. Instead of splurging on gifts you feel obligated to buy for Valentine’s Day, make connections that feel more meaningful to you and your loved ones. Giving gifts can certainly fall into that category, but so can giving your time, your support and your help… or six second hugs. And remember that you don’t need a significant other to be able to experience meaningful connections. When it comes to fighting disease, we often place a lot of importance on our diet and exercise habits. Those do matter, but we often miss one of the most important pieces in the wellness puzzle, which is community. As our culture has become more technologically advanced, we’ve also grown farther apart from one another. Don’t forget to make an effort to foster daily connections that promote the stress reducing effects of oxytocin and create your own Roseto effect.

Fishing With Kenny Meeting Glynn Blankenship is a Pleasure, Getting to Truly Know Him is a Treasure article by K E N N Y C OV I NGT ON “Hey Kenny, this is Glynn.” If I heard that over the phone once, I heard it over a thousand times over the years. The conversations run together now as they are too numerous to recall but the person on the other end of the phone is a person not easy to forget. For the record Glynn Blankenship is the best tournament fishermen this area has ever known. If you count the number of tournaments he has won, who he won them with and the different ways in which he won them, it’s not even open to a debate. Everyone who teamed up with him in a boat to fish team tournaments was successful. When he still fished tournaments, Glynn could do it all. Long before the video game style of electronics of today, Glynn was excellent at reading the basic flasher style depth finders. He could locate areas and fish that no one else knew existed. Over the years his ability to find these types of areas caused some issues for him on and off of the water. I would hear people say, “Glynn doesn’t own the lake (Lake Darbonne) so he shouldn’t be so confrontational with people who fish up there.” It wasn’t the people who fished the lake that bothered him, what bothered him was people would look for him on the water, then go behind him and fish areas they knew nothing about until they saw his boat there. “Fishing the fisherman” he called it. His attention to detail was one of the first things I noticed about him when we began fishing together as a team. He was meticulous in his tournament preparations. He was as anal about the way he did things as I was, so our initial connection had a common thread. We won a tournament at Felsenthal frog fishing back when the frogs we used required sharpening the hooks by hand. As I was bagging our fish to 52 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

take them to the weigh-in I saw him pick up my frog and run his fingers over the hooks. He was checking to see if I had taken the time to sharpen them. He was comfortable fishing deeper water, I was more suited fishing the shallower areas of a lake. He was slow and methodical, I was put the trolling motor down and cover as much water as I could. We would throw ideas at each other as if we were looking at two sides of the world, fishing and otherwise. We are as different as night and day but it worked for us as a team and it works for us in our friendship. When I first began talking to Glynn on a consistent basis, I would pick his brain over various fishing scenarios, lures, techniques and such. He knew what I was doing so his answers were guarded and vague at first. As our friendship grew, the answers became more open and honest but our conversations went far beyond tournaments and fishing as well. To this day, when a conversation starts about fishing we usually end up discussing sports, politics, religion, or whatever else might be the topic of the day. Regardless of the topic and true to his nature, Glynn gives you an honest opinion. Having been in a wheelchair due to a hunting accident at the age of 18, Glynn’s love of the outdoors has never waned. Even now nearing the age of 60, at his house you will find a pond stocked with bream and bass, bird houses, bat houses, bee houses, martin houses and anything else needed to attract visiting wildlife. He has even bought and raised baby ducks. Having not fished tournaments in quite a few years I believe what he has created around him has allowed him to stay in touch with the outdoors.

He takes great pleasure in riding around on his golf cart, kept company by his three dogs as they patrol his compound. His time is spent tinkering with his various projects or side jobs that keep him busy. I asked him once if he missed fishing tournaments and he told me, “I do but I just can’t prepare for them like I used to. It just takes too much out of me. That’s hard on my body. I had my time and I enjoyed it but I am OK with that as well.” I didn’t think I would ever meet anyone who had the drive to fish as I did but I will admit Glynn’s drive would at least equal or maybe even surpass mine. For years, it was his driving force. Some considered him a sourly individual who could be cantankerous when dealing with people, but he is really someone who is very competitive. His tolerance for fake or lazy people, especially when it came to fishing, is extremely low. On and off the water he always knew what and who he was dealing with. Here is a story that will give you a better idea of who Glynn Blankenship is. Once while we were waiting to blast off at the beginning of a tournament, the boats were lined up on the bank, waiting for the flights to start leaving. We would usually sit quietly, going over our day’s plans in our own individual heads or making last minute tackle adjustments based on the weather. On this day, as we sat in the slowly changing light, I glanced over at Glynn and he was looking straight ahead not blinking an eye. Suddenly he said out loud, “Andy, are you ready?” Andy was the guy’s name sitting in his boat next to us. “Ready for what Glynn?” came the slow country drawl of a reply. Glynn slowly turned, looked at Andy and said, “Are you ready for the beat down we are going to give you today?” The look on Andy’s face was priceless. Glynn wasn’t being mean, he was simply stating what he believed was about to happen. If he had the chance to take a dig at you to gain a mental edge, no competitor was off limits. We have argued on and off the water, we have spent days not speaking, we have laughed together and have had more than just a few emotional conversations. He has a great heart, a dry but quick sense of humor and is very good and patient with children. He is my confidant, a mentor and one of the best friends I have ever had. Glynn is just a good, decent man in a world that lacks for those kinds of people. Well, it looks like we have run out of time and space for this month. Thank you for allowing me to give a very special shout out to someone who has been so vitally important to me on and off of the water over the years. My only wish is that you could know Glynn Blankenship the way that I know him. If you get to meet him, it is a pleasure to truly get to know him; it is a treasure! Please be careful in the woods and on the water! I will see you next month!

Cathi French Roberts & Lori French

FINDING YOUR “JUST RIGHT”

ust about the best relaxing Saturday morning can be a fresh cup of coffee, a comfy spot in the sunroom, and piles of magazines and coffee table interior books. With the iPad charged and ready to scroll through favorite home design and room images, it is easily sensory bliss. But often after just a few minutes, the overwhelming visual selection choice of modern, traditional, edgy, farmhouse, urban or collected is just too much. Usually the best way to find what speaks to you is discovering your “Just Right” – which sometimes (like Goldilocks) requires a few tries. It seems that most interiors today are moving to more of a mix of collections rather than a stark, rigid or cookie cutter version of the latest trend. Since sometimes simplicity is too simple and maximal-ism is too over-the-top, there are some easy ways to find your happy medium.

• Do you keep going back to that favorite odd shape or texture of furniture but not sure where it will fit in the room? Try not to think about trends, just utilize it in a way that compliments the feeling you are trying to create. If it is a vintage love seat, upholster it with a simple modern clean fabric. If it is a desk, paint it glossy black to pop in the room. • Try and keep your color palettes to a relatable family. Without even knowing it, shades of that same family and spectrum unite a room even if there is a wide mix of furnishings. This can go for your paint and window treatments as well. • Stripes can be the partner to your modern and your maximalist desires. Think of ticking fabric on a pair of armless slender low chairs. A bold tone on tone stripe used to slip cover a square corner table can be classic and cool at the same time. • Calm prints as opposed to bold still offer interest without the screaming factor. Punch up your room with a favorite bold color or print, but just make it a punch and not a full blow boxing match. Wall art can serve this purpose and have a memorable effect. • Artful curves instead of everything straight and strict is relaxing to the eye of a happy medium décor. Your room can have that modern steel frame, clean line sofa, but opt for a bamboo oval coffee table or horn glossy lamp for an updated visual twist. It might just be your new “Just Right.”

FOR YOUR OWN FRENCH TWIST CONSULTATION, CALL CATHI AND LORI AT 318-355-3041 54 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

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Junior League of Monroe Spring is in the Air and Shopping is at the Market

PRING IS IN THE AIR, WHICH means that Junior League of Monroe’s Spring Market sponsored by Origin Bank is coming soon. This annual event will be held Friday, March 20th through Sunday, March 22nd at the Monroe Civic Center. The Market opens on Friday at 9 a.m. with a classic champagne brunch event, “Shop Til’ You Drop!,” sponsored by The Mulhearn Corporation, LLC. At this exclusive event, shoppers will enjoy strolling the Market and sipping mimosas with brunch catered by The Coffee Bean, live entertainment, and door prizes! Tickets for this special event are $30. Afterwards, general shopping will be open to the public from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday night will be the signature event, “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” sponsored by Progressive Bank and kicks off at 6 p.m.! This event includes catering by Thurman’s Food Factory, everyone’s favorite “Marketritas” provided by Iron Cactus, door prizes, and live entertainment. Tickets are $40 for this event that is sure to be a good time! Each year, the Junior League of Monroe features a raffle for Spring Market to increase fundraising efforts. This year, the League is excited to announce that the raffle prize will be three pieces of Louis Vuitton, including the “Horizon Soft Duffle 65” rolling luggage, “All-In GM” foldable travel bag, and “Nice BB” vanity case. These fantastic pieces have a retail value of $6,000! Raffle tickets are only $20 and can be purchased from any Junior League member or purchased at the Market. The drawing will be held at 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 22. The Junior League of Monroe is an

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organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Since 1930, the League has been making a difference in Ouachita Parish through volunteer work by dedicated members, League-sponsored community projects, and grant programs. • “Tools and Literacy for Children (TLC)” is a League program that assists at-risk children and families by adopting an area elementary school each year to provide assistance and programing that focuses on students’ physical, emotional, and educational needs. • “Education Task Force” is a League committee committed to education in our community through its MiniGrant Program. This year, the Task Force awarded over $13,000 in grants to thirty-two educators to be used for their own educational projects in the classroom. • The League awards at least one Endowment Fund Grant each year to local non-profit organizations to help with certain projects, missions, and programs for the betterment of the community. The most recent grant recipients were the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana and the Junior League of Monroe’s Care Closets. Care Closets provide basic hygiene supplies to local middle and high school students from discreet closets or rooms at local partner schools.

• The League hosts the Cinderella Project, which provides local junior and senior high school students with prom dresses collected through donation drives and matches each student with the perfect dress, so that every girl can have a Cinderella moment! • Community Outreach is a League committee that provides a single day of volunteer work from members to fulfill an immediate for a local organization. Projects have included volunteer work at Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana, Monroe Symphony Orchestra, Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana, and more. This only names a few of the outreach programs operated through the Junior League of Monroe, and Spring Market is the largest fundraiser to support the League’s mission, which gives purpose to your purchase of a ticket! General shopping will be Friday, March 20 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, March 21 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, March 22 from Noon to 5 p.m. Tickets can be purchased from any League member or by visiting the League House, 2811 Cameron Street, Monroe, LA, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. The Junior League of Monroe appreciates your support and looks forward to seeing you at the Market! If you are interested in participating as a merchant for Spring Market this year, please contact jlmonroespringmarket@ gmail.com.

First Methodist Monroe Welcomes Pastor Brian Mercer

IRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF MONROE welcomed in September 2019 their new Senior Pastor and his family— Rev. Brian Mercer with his wife Shelley, and children Nick (15), Lainey (13), and Blake (5). Pastor Brian comes to FUMC Monroe after serving as the Senior Pastor of First United Methodist Church of Minden, Louisiana for just over 5 years. Before serving in Minden, Brian served as Associate Pastor at Trinity United Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana. Brian is originally from Mangham, Louisiana where he graduated from Mangham High School. Brian also graduated from LSU and received his Masters of Divinity degree from Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky. Ordained as an Elder in the United Methodist Church, Brian has served as clergy in the United Methodist Church since June 2001. On being appointed as the Senior Pastor of First United Methodist Church of Monroe, Pastor Brian Mercer states: “Over the past 30 years, I have journeyed as a follower of Christ learning that God is our Father and as His children, He desires an everyday, up close and personal relationship with all of His creation. Luke 15 tells of the prodigal son story, which for me relays the gift of a Father who is tending His family and looking for any who are lost. Luke 19:10 records Jesus’s words to Zacchaeus ‘For the Son of Man came to seek and save the lost.’” “As I come alongside the fruitful ministry already being experienced at FUMC Monroe I do so with a humble heart and an enthusiasm for connecting as many as possible with the abundant life found in knowing, loving, and following Jesus Christ. “ “Because of the love of the father, the prodigal son was restored, because of an experience with Jesus, Zacchaeus was transformed, and because of the ministry of Grace, Love, and Truth at FUMC Monroe many will be baptized, profess their faith in Jesus, join as members of our church family and we will together grow in the sanctification of our faith.” FUMC Monroe, located at 3900 Loop Rd, is a growing congregation with three worship opportunities on Sunday mornings: • 8:30 Traditional worship (Sanctuary) • 9:00 Contemporary worship (Fellowship Hall) • 11:00 Traditional worship (Sanctuary) FUMC Monroe offers ministry opportunities for every age on Sunday Mornings and Wednesday Nights (5:15-7:00pm). Members of First United Methodist Church of Monroe support our community of faith through:

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PRESENCE Coming together to worship, study, and share fellowship strengthens our faith and is vital to keeping faith alive and growing throughout our lives. First Methodist Monroe is a supportive faith community and your presence is valued. PRAYER Prayer is an integral part of faith in Jesus Christ and being a part of a faith community. Opportunities to share prayer at First Methodist Monroe range from personal and private prayer times to praying specifically for those in need through our daily prayer ministry, and a prayer group that meets weekly. WITNESS As Christians, our witness is so important. Sometimes our witness is verbal, sharing with someone what Christ means to us. Other times our witness is by example as we live out the claims of Christ upon our life. We are called upon to reflect the life of Christ on a daily basis and, at First Methodist Monroe, we challenge and encourage each other to do so. SERVICE Ways to serve are many and varied. It is when we become involved in the ministry of the church that we feel and become a part of the body of Christ experienced in the community of the church. We invite you to view the opportunities listed on our Missions page on our website and become actively involved in serving the church, our community and the world. GIVING Financial stewardship is seen as a way to help participants in the congregation to grow spiritually in their relationship with God. They are encouraged to support the church’s mission and ministry with a percentage of their income, working toward a tithe. Funds are received for the operating budget, endowments, benevolence gifts, missions, and special projects. Members are also asked to give consideration to the longterm needs of the church in their personal estate planning.

Bayou Pages

NIGHTSTANDS & COFFEE TABLES We Are All Good People Here by Susan Rebecca White REVIEW BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE “She wasn’t unhappy, exactly, but she wasn’t exactly happy either. Was adult life supposed to be happy? Mostly she was just uncertain how she had gotten where she was.” White’s novel is about friendship, but the story is told truthfully, how relationships shift and often turn away from each other, how we disappoint one another and later inspire one another. Daniella and Eve meet in college, a ritzy female institution in 1962, concerned with pledging the coveted sorority and making lifelong friends, diving head first into the artificial lives their parents have modeled for them. But when Daniella’s Jewish background results in her being dismissed from consideration to the sorority, Eve makes the ultimate sacrifice and thus leads the girls on an entirely different path, far away from the comforts and wholesome structure of home. White explores the sacrifices female friends make for one another and the expectations we unfairly place on those who benefit from our sacrifice. She explores how one decision, often made prematurely, can alter our universe and the lives of those we hold dear. Eve molds from a destined debutant to a militant activist, joining a cult of sorts meant to challenge the government at a time of Civil Rights and Vietnam War resistance. While Daniella shares some of her friend’s views, she takes a more traditional route, getting engaged and attending law school, although not as common for women at the time. They’re both rebellious, but express their rebellion in entirely

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different ways, all the time resenting the methods of the other, and drifting further apart: “And then they lost each other. Again and again they lost each other.” The shifts in narrative come suddenly. The opening of the story feels like a simple, quaint coexistence of two girls starting college, then takes a dark turn into the underground of Eve’s militant resistance against the state. Some situations are hard to read, involving animal cruelty and graphic language. The story shifts again when Eve and Daniella’s daughters become friends, both resembling and challenging their mothers, experiencing some of the same challenges in a world drastically changed, yet quite the same. Eve is hiding a secret only Daniella knows, and when it disrupts their daughter’s world, all the pieces come tumbling down. White shows how much we strive to hide our mistakes of the past, the lengths we’ll go to protect those we love, and how hard we are on each other when “We’re all good people here, just trying to muddle through as best we can.” Daniella can never forgive Eve for going as far into rebellion as she did, and she can’t forgive herself for her lack of bravery. She both hates and envies Eve’s commitment to social revolution. Eve can’t understand Daniella’s conservative tendencies, yet embraces them when her world becomes unrecognizable. The twosome weave in and out of each other’s lives and yet remain connected, though not necessarily by choice. Sometimes we turn back to people we knew before only because we have nowhere else to go.

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I REMEMBER WHAT THE CROSS MEANS TO FOLLOWERS OF JESUS

and that symbol that says loudly and I REMEMBER how moved I clearly, “I love you.” “God so loved was by what I saw on the horizon near he world that He gave His Son…” Rayville as my wife and I travelled (John 3:16). So when I see a cross, my east on Interstate 20 on our way home heart is quickened with gratitude to from Monroe. There, in dominating the One died on the cross for me. grandeur, stood a gigantic cross. We I am aware that not everyone were a couple of miles from Rayville, shares my appreciation for the cross. so that cross filled our view for over In fact, there is much opposition to two compelling minutes. I had heard the cross and to the Gospel – haters go about a project to erect such a cross, an to court to ban the cross from public effort which was headed by a number display, claiming that it is “offensive” of area citizens, but I had no idea how – I tremble for any who think this impressive this scene would be. So expression of God’s compassion and moved was I that I was speechless for love offends them – to despise His what was, for me, a lengthy time. HOWEVER, GOD’S EMBLEM OF LOVE IS Son offends God, and I do not want I suppose the reason for the to be a part of those who are guilty of impact - caused by the sight of that NOT THE HEART, BUT THE CROSS – AND that offense. gigantic cross - was the truth of THAT SYMBOL THAT SAYS LOUDLY AND It is bewildering to me how there is what the cross means to followers of CLEARLY, “I LOVE YOU.” such an anti-Christian attitude in the Jesus Christ. For us, the cross has a world – why is there such hostility to powerful effect on how we live our lives on this earth and on our hopes for a future eternity in heaven. It is One like Jesus? Just consider some of the things His followers have Christ’s substitutionary death on the cross that provides salvation for us done: they have built hospitals, schools, orphanages and have played – He died in our place, taking the judgment of our sins on Himself and a major role in relief efforts. Additionally, no one can measure the giving us the privilege of being called the children of God (John 1:12). encouragement received by millions from their worship and fellowship No wonder, then, that the Apostle Paul said that he gloried in nothing experiences provided by their churches each week. Christ’s love does inestimable good in our world. but the cross of Christ (Gal.6:14). Even if I am wrong and the doubters are right, I still have gained There is extraordinary benefit in remembering what the cross means to followers of Jesus – not only is there a serene peace in knowing much and have had much fulfillment in my attempt to be a faithful that our sins have been pardoned, but there is also a strong motivation disciple of the Lord. My life has been better because of Him and His to respond to the love of God demonstrated on the cross by seeking to teachings. I have lost nothing and have gained much. BUT if I am right and the doubters are in error, my gain is unfathomable and their loss is show our love for Him in the way we live. A highlight of the month of February is Valentine’s Day with its overwhelming. The scriptures, which teach volumes about the love of focus on love. I do not know its origin, but the heart has become the Christ, also have some frightening things to say about those who reject symbol for love. So, this month we will see heart-shaped boxes of candy, Him. They gain nothing by denying Him, but lose everything in the necklaces in the form of a heart, and greeting cards covered with little process. This month, with Valentine’s Day right in the middle, gives focus to hearts. In our culture, the heart means “love.” It is not unusual for young folks “in love” to carve their initials on a tree and to surround LOVE. Our customary emblem for love is a heart. Let me recommend those initials with a heart. For most folks, a heart says “love.” The heart that we who have put our trust in Jesus might also adopt the cross as a symbol of His love for us, of our love for one another, and of our love is our emblem of love. However, God’s emblem of love is not the heart, but the cross – for our God. ▪

ar t i c le b y PAU L L I PE

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MARDI GRAS MANIA BY S TA R L A G AT S O N

laissez les bon temps rouler

ony’s fascination with Mardi Gras culture led him to join the Krewe of Janus, and though years have passed since the Glenwood Regional Medical Center x-ray technician’s first Mardi Gras experience, his excitement for the festivities does not seem to have waned a bit. “On Friday nights before the parade on Saturday and that Saturday morning, you drive the parade route — I always do every year — you already see people staking out their spots,” he says. “You don’t see that everywhere. It’s really good to be part of a krewe that still puts on a family-style parade that everybody can enjoy. That’s important, and it’s so exciting to be a part of all that.” Though he looks forward to the Janus parade each year, this year’s event, which will roll through town February 15th, is sure to be a special one for Tony, as he and fellow krewe member, Donna Tolar, will reign over the festivities as King and Queen Janus XXXVII. According to Donna, whose husband, Sammy, was last year’s king, the royal coupling just makes perfect sense. “An interesting thing is, it was, I think, 10 years ago, the King and I were Duke and Duchess together,” she explains. “And we had always said if we were ever to do it that we would do it together. So, if you have two people like that — they’re both enthusiastic and really enjoy each other — it makes a difference when you get out in the community.” Passion for the community is a characteristic that appears to be shared not only by the King and Queen, but also the Krewe of Janus as a whole. “We enjoy what we do, and even if there wasn’t a soul there, we would still run the parade, I think,” Tony says. Fortunately for krewe members, a patron-less parade seems highly unlikely; each year, thousands line the streets of Monroe and West Monroe to see the decorated floats, catch handfuls of brightly colored beads and trinkets, and catch a glimpse of the year’s Mardi Gras majesties as they pass by atop the royal float. Now, in its 37th year, the Krewe of Janus’s annual parade has become a long-standing tradition and is eagerly anticipated by locals and tourists alike. This year, however, a new krewe prepares to roll through the town as well, and for the first time, members of the community can let the good times roll two weekends in a row.

MARDIGRASMANIA THE INAUGURAL KREWE DE RIVERE

parade will roll February 8th, and though the organization is a brand-new addition to the area, King Tommy Sims and Queen Ginger Hubenthal Padgett are confident its presence will be positive for the area. Having two parades to look forward to, Tommy says, will be “just that much more fun,” and he hopes in time, the new krewe’s parade will become just as beloved as that of the Krewe of Janus. Though he has never done anything quite like this before, Tommy, a Rayville native who works as the northeast regional manager of Louisiana’s Department of Veterans Affairs, says he is grateful to have been voted onto the Krewe de Riviere royal court. “I was very pleasantly surprised,” he says of hearing of his nomination and later election. “It’s an honor to be chosen to be a part of it, especially the inaugural parade.” Learning she had been chosen as queen also came as a shock to Ginger. She said she is excited, however, to be a part of the organization’s first year of celebrations. “That’s kind of like history right there!” she says of being the inaugural queen.

A former counselor who currently spends her days working passionately in animal rescue, Ginger is eager to see what a second krewe does for Ouachita parish. Since the krewe is new, she is going with the flow, she says, but she is hoping the fruit of the Krewe de Riviere’s labor is success. “Being the first year, it’s probably going to be kind of small, but eventually, I hope it

grows and brings in a lot more people to the community to see how much fun it is in the Monroe-West Monroe area,” she says. “I think in time, it could grow to be a really fun activity for people.” When it comes to Monroe Mardi Gras, says Donna, two is better than one. “We’re hoping that they do well because I think there’s plenty of people in this community

to do both,” Queen Janus XXXVII says of the Krewe de Riviere. “You can’t have too many parades or anything around here for us to enjoy.” And with the celebrations both krewes have worked diligently to plan, enjoyment is certainly guaranteed.

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he Krewe de Riviere kicks off their full day of celebrations with Mardi Gras Madness, held at Downtown Monroeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Origin Bank RiverMarket. A childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parade, complete with prizes for the top 3 mini floats, is first on the docket and will begin at 10:30 a.m. The cornhole tournament, Little Miss Mardi Gras pageant, and a costume contest for pets, children, and adults that follow are sure to make for a memorable afternoon. The event will also include live performances from Kirby Rambin and Pocket Kandy. The full day of activities continues with the Krewe de Riviereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Roaring â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;20s-themed parade, which begins its route near West Monroe High School before heading down North 7th and Mill Streets. The parade will roll across the Ouachita River and end near the Ouachita Parish Courthouse. Finally, the Krewe de Riviere will conclude the day at the Monroe Civic Center with a ball,

overpass before following Trenton Street across the river and turning onto Walnut and 3rd Streets. The Janus parade will then head down Louisville Avenue before concluding at Oliver Road. Two is better than one, they say, and thanks to the hard work and dedication of Krewes de Riviere and Janus, the Twin Cities will experience that firsthand. After months of preparation, the organizations have planned full days of family-friendly fun, and one thing is certain: this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mardi Gras is not to be missed. For more detailed schedules of events, full parade route maps, or information on how to become involved in a krewe, visit www.kreweofjanusonline.com and www.krewederiviere.com.

West Monroe High School (Travis Street)

PARADE ROUTES

Krewe de Riviere Krewe of Janus

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Monroe finishes at Ouachita Parish Courthouse

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1118 Natchitoches Street

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Krewe de Riviere Krewe of Janus Krewe de Riviere start and finish is denoted with a crown. Krewe of Janus start and finish is denoted with a fleur de lis.

Finishes at Oliver Road

LEGEND

where attendees will eat, drink, and dance the night away in their finest formal wear. The Krewe of Janus keeps the party going just a week later, beginning with the annual childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parade at Pecanland Mall. The townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tiniest, dressed in their Mardi Gras best, begin their ride at the free family event at 10:00 a.m. Later that morning, PAWS of Northeast Louisiana presents the 14th annual Krewe of PAWS pet parade. The areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s furry, feathered, or scaled friends will make their way down West Monroeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Antique Alley beginning at 11:00 a.m. Then, as the day draws to a close and evening is near, parade-goers ready themselves to yell â&#x20AC;&#x153;Throw Me Something, Mister!â&#x20AC;? as the 37th annual Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras parade makes its way through the streets. Themed â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Magic of Fairytales,â&#x20AC;? the big event starts in West Monroe on Natchitoches Street near the I-20

West Monroe I-20

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The Grace Way of Life

Local School and Church Serve as the Cornerstone of Rich Traditions and Community

ARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION REFERS TO THE PERIOD of time from a child’s birth to when they enter kindergarten. A child’s brain develops more rapidly during this time more than any other time in life. Research has shown that a child’s experiences in these early years directly affect how the brain develops, with long term impact on the child’s ability to thrive and succeed in school. When these essential social and emotional skills are practiced, it lays the groundwork for continued success throughout the child’s education. At Grace Yellow House and Grace Episcopal School, our mission is to educate the hearts and minds of young people. Our Early Childhood Program is designed to engage the youngest learners socially, emotionally, physically, cognitively and spiritually through developmentally appropriate practices rich in social connections, language, literacy, math, and disciplinary content such as music, art and religion. Students enter Grace Yellow House where they begin to navigate friendships by sharing materials, taking turns and taking perspectives of others’ ideas. Cognitive skills are developed through investigation and exploration, and early exposure to numbers, letters, and sounds. The students’ education advances at Grace School when in PK-3, certified teachers continue to provide materials and activities that develop literacy, numeracy, and scientific thinking. A cornerstone of the historic Monroe Garden District, Grace Episcopal Church and School is steeped in the rich traditions of this community. We enjoy a close relationship that includes school worship, religious formation and study, and social justice. Led by the Rector of Grace Church, Fr. Don Smith, and assisted by Deacon Bette Kauffman, we participate weekly in school worship services that are creative, inclusive, and a regular part of school life. Every Wednesday morning, we have a schoolwide Eucharist service which provides one of the many avenues for our church and school to come together as family. Students also attend weekly religion classes that are meaningful, academically substantive, and age-appropriate. Although we teach Christian traditions, dialogue is fostered and encouraged with other faith traditions. Diversity among our student body is respected and supported. For Grace Church and School, we share a collaborative spirit in service to our community and stewardship towards those in need. Together, we have partnered in food drives, The Great Kindness Challenge, preparing care packages, serving at shelters and building community gardens. By weaving these principles into the fabric of our overall life, Grace Church and School lovingly guide and challenge all who walk through our doors.

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Started in 1954 as St. Christopher’s Day School, GES celebrates 65 years as an institution of excellence in education, and since 2009, Grace School has been under the leadership of Dr. Beth Ricks. Serving first as Director of Curriculum and then as Head of School, these 11 years have been ones of tremendous growth. In the past decade, GES has proven to be an educational leader in innovative thought and practice in Northeast Louisiana. Concerning technology, we have shifted to a school that implements daily use of iPads, Chromebooks, and SmartBoards in a 1-1 student ratio. Our program was among the first to adopt the ACT Aspire and align our assessment system with the ACT. Nationally, our ACT Aspire scores for grades 4-8 consistently rank in the top quartile with 90% of 8th graders scoring in the top 10% in Science and ELA. Grace Church and School is one of the most secure campuses in the area. Complete with security cameras, panic buttons, iron gating, increased safety drills and protocols, an established Security Assessment Committee, and controlled admittance, the safety and well-being of our students is a top priority. At Grace, we focus on educating the whole child which includes physical activity. Our Lower School playground recently went through a $70k renovation where students enjoy physical activity on a topnotch play facility. Our state-of-the-art MakerSpace Lab is a place for students to creatively problem solve and master the skills and concepts of physics, engineering, geometry, and spatial reasoning. GES is proud to be one of the original 8 schools in the state to be recognized as a LA A+ School. Sponsored by the George Rodrigue Foundation, GES was on the groundbreaking level of advanced arts curriculum integration. For 11 years, Dr. Ricks has called Grace School home, and her successful tenure has left GES poised for the future. Her retirement brings the next exciting chapter in the ongoing excellence of Grace. After a nationwide search, Grace Episcopal School has hired Dr. Matthew Blake for its next Head of School. With 20 years experience in Episcopal education, Dr. Blake is forward-thinking, energetic, and committed to cultivating an environment that celebrates children. Not only is this an exciting time for GES, but also for Grace Episcopal Church who has called its new Rector, Fr. Don Smith. For 17 years, Fr. Don has served the Episcopal Church in many roles including Curate, Assistant Rector, Interim Rector, Bishop’s Vicar, and Director of Christian Education and Spiritual Formation. Grace Episcopal Church and School is thrilled at the plans this leadership team has in store for our families and community, and we are look forward to what the future holds. Please join us!

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Kick Up Your Heels At the Shindig on March 20th at MHB Farm

ON’T MISS OUACHITA COUNCIL ON AGING’S 12TH Annual “Shindig” fundraiser scheduled for Friday, March 20th, from 6:30 until 11:30 p.m. at MBH Farm, owned by Dr. Herschel and Mary Beth Harter in western Ouachita Parish. Lisa Spann and Company will entertain the crowd with dance music covering every genre from rhythm and blues to country to rock ‘n roll. Lisa is well known around town and surrounding areas and has a following of her own. Catering for the event will be provided by Catfish Charlie’s, offering a delicious spread of catfish, chicken, and all the trimmings. You don’t want to miss out on the delicious food and fun music! Reserved tables at the Shindig are $700, which provides seating for 8 persons. Those who purchase reserved tables are given the opportunity to display a banner at the event. General admission (no reserved seat) tickets are $70 each. By purchasing tickets to the Shindig, you help support some 22 programs available for seniors in Ouachita Parish, including the Meals on Wheels Program and NonEmergency Transportation. Ouachita Council on Aging’s Executive Director, Lynda McGehee, reminds everyone to come prepared to participate in the Live Auction which will take place midway thru the evening. One item up for bid will be a Blue Dog print by the late artist George Rodrigue. According to McGehee, this will be a night of “fun, food, and fellowship”, with patrons dressing casually in cowboy boots, hats, and jeans. The huge, gorgeous barn at MBH Farm is decorated in rustic style, with the resident Clydesdales getting ample attention from the crowd. Back in 2008, the Board of Directors was looking for a way to pay off the remaining debt on the Carolyn Rose Strauss Senior Center and the Ouachita Council on Aging offices located on Ferrand Street in Monroe. The “Shindig” was thus born out of necessity to generate much needed revenue for retiring the building mortgage. After succeeding in “burning the note” in 2012, the Council now directs proceeds from the Shindig to the most vitally needed programs provided for our elderly. The fact that this event is one of the most anticipated in our region is just an extra bonus. The Ouachita Council on Aging was established by charter in June 1967, thus recently celebrated its 52nd year of serving seniors. In 1980, OCA was also designated as the Area Agency on Aging for Ouachita Parish. Currently, OCA has established 12 dining and activity sites

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throughout the area and 15 Meals on Wheels routes which cover the entire parish. Additionally, OCA contracts for services with West Ouachita Senior Center in West Monroe and SCORE (Senior Citizens OutReach Entity) in Richwood. While federal and state funding is provided to the Area Agency on Aging under the Older Americans Act, funding falls short of meeting the needs of the ever-growing senior population. Other sources of funding include United Way, the City of Monroe’s Community Development Block Grant, the City of West Monroe, program participant contributions, and donations from concerned citizens and groups in the community. Local sources make up 37% of the total operating budget, with Shindig revenue being a large part of that percentage. Billy Justice, Marketing Director for Vantage Health Plan, says, “Vantage is proud to be the premier sponsor of this fundraising event for Ouachita Council on Aging. I’ve seen first-hand how the Council operates and how they utilize their funding. The Shindig is their main source for raising additional dollars to fill the budget gaps and meet the needs of our seniors.” “When OCA first started, they served only 80 persons on the Meals on Wheels Program. Currently, noon meals are provided, Monday thru Friday, to approximately 400 homebound seniors, age 60 and over. We serve meals to another 450 older individuals at our 12 dining sites each day. Monday thru Friday, vans from OCA transport dozens of elderly to doctor appointments and life-saving dialysis and cancer treatment centers. More than any other time in our history, we are depending on continued donations from our community,” said McGehee. “Fortunately, we live in an area that is known for its generosity and concern. We simply couldn’t operate at our current level of service without contributions from local businesses and individuals. We are so very grateful for their support.” Tickets for the Shindig are now available at the Ouachita Council on Aging office located at 2407 Ferrand Street, Monroe, LA, or by calling Lynda McGehee or Diane Gaines at (318) 387-0535. For information about the Ouachita Council on Aging and its services, visit their website at www.ouachitacoa.com or find them on Facebook. If you cannot attend the Shindig, but would like to make a donation to OCA, go to the website and click on the “Make a Donation” button.

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Offering a New Hope Local Addiction Recovery Clinic Now Open

HE LOST. THE LONELY. THE ONES EVERYONE ELSE have given up on. These are the people that New Hope Addiction Recovery is looking to help. New Hope Addiction Recovery is an outpatient addiction medicine facility owned and operated by Board Certified Addictionologist, Dr. Cesar Gonzales. He is board certified in Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine through the American Board of Family Practice and American Board of Addiction Medicine, respectively. He received his medical training at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas, and completed his residency at LSU Monroe EA Conway in Family Practice. Dr. Gonzales is personally and professionally committed to the treatment of chemically dependent individuals and their families, and he is passionate about seeing his patients recover and live the lives that they deserve, free from the bondage of addiction. One of the reasons Dr. Gonzales is so passionate about helping his patients is because he personally knows the pain of addiction. “I’m in recovery myself,” explains Dr. Gonzales. “I battled by own demons and ended up in an inpatient recovery facility in 2006. I had been to treatment several times and this time was different. There was a shift in everything and I asked God to please help me. I pleaded with him and said that if He helped me, I would do whatever I could to make it up. So this is truly a calling for me. I am doing what I can to share the blessings that have been bestowed unto me.” After being sober for two years, Dr. Gonzales was introduced to the idea of addiction medicine and knew he could use that avenue to help others. “I was blessed by being able to train under the doctor that treated me and he became a mentor.” Since Dr. Gonzales has literally been in the same place as some of the patients walking in his door, there is no sense of judgment. “I understand where they are. I was there too. I knew the right thing to do but I couldn’t so I’m glad to be able to provide them the tools I was taught.” The goal is to provide a safe, therapeutic environment offering the latest in evidence-based clinical care for patients, as well as their families. New Hope operates on the belief that addiction is a chronic disease, and that in order to support best recovery outcomes, addiction must be treated in a long-term continuum of care. They address not just the symptoms of substance use disorder but also the underlying causes, conditions, behaviors, attitudes, values, family dynamics, purpose and direction of each individual. “Life is messy to begin with,” explains Dr. Gonzales. “And then you add trauma, past experience, upbringing and then combine that with drugs or alcohol….then it is really messy. And we are here to help you work through that, clean up that mess and go

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on to be happy and healthy.” New Hope Addiction Recovery’s purpose is to offer help to individuals, families, and communities suffering from addiction in whatever way is necessary to support sustainable, longterm recovery that allows patients the opportunity to live a purposedriven, high quality life. New Hope is a community-based healthcare organization that offers the highest quality in direct clinical services, as well as aiding those suffering from addiction and dual diagnosis issues by providing resources and referrals, community support and educational and preventative platforms. Over his decade of experience in addiction medicine, Dr. Gonzales has built key relationships with professionals throughout the industry. “I practice at both Glenwood and Morehouse General so I can address some medical issues,” said Dr. Gonzales. “I can also reach out to the doctor on call at a facility if someone needs deeper medical care. Additionally, I have good relationships with local inpatient facilities so if someone needs something more than outpatient, I can get them where they need to go.” New Hope offers a variety of programs when it comes to addiction. From addiction related consultation to dealing with underlying issues often associated with addiction - depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder and substance induced mood and anxiety disorders. They also offer Medication Assisted Therapy in both opioid use and alcohol use, based on years of clinical studies and personal practice experience. New Hope offers aftercare addiction medicine with clinical follow up and and medication management. “I meet with each patient, assess them and create a treatment plan, tailor made for them,” said Dr. Gonzales. “I work with them on that plan, connecting them with anyone else they may need and following through in the months following. At New Hope, we are offering just that - a new hope. Hope for people that feel they have none. We know there is hope and want to offer that to them.” Dr. Gonzales resides in Monroe, with his wife Kila, and children, Max and Mia. Kila is the founder of I Will Carry You, Birth and Bereavement Doula Services, which shares an office suite with New Hope. Kila is a registered nurse and after enduring years of infertility and pregnancy and infant loss, has a newfound passion for supporting families experiencing the same heartache she has faced. This passion is what compels her, along side her husband, to start this non-profit organization and to become a certified birth and bereavement doula. The organization is looking forward to serving clients in the spring of this year.

Bayou Pages

NIGHTSTANDS & COFFEE TABLES

Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive by Stephanie Land REVIEW BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE “It seemed like no matter how much I tried to prove otherwise, “poor” was always associated with dirty.” Stephanie Land’s memoir is an intimate look inside the life of a hard-working single mother on government assistance. She finds herself in the system as she is just entering adulthood, having lived in relative comfort for most of her childhood. An unplanned pregnancy, a fight to keep custody of her daughter and a newly disengaged family results in Stephanie and her daughter Mia living in a homeless shelter. Their story is not one of triumph out of the system as much as it is about the trappings and hopelessness of poverty. She is in the cycle having once been on the outside. She admits her prior life of financial comfort gave her the will to fight; she knew a different life than the one she was living. This both heart-wrenching and heartfelt book is a testament to the hardships of single mothers, a love story to her daughter, and a detailed account of how poverty can make success unattainable. She is a member of the working poor, devoting almost twelve hours a day to scrubbing people’s toilets, vacuuming their carpets, and often remaining a stranger to each home’s occupants. She remains invisible, while her clients’ private lives are exposed to her each week when she cleans their houses. She struggles on minimum wage, spending almost 50% of her pay on gas to get to each home. She mathematically tallies

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each expense daily, with a McDonald’s happy meal for Mia being a luxury rarely attainable. She battles each day with the added guilt of not giving Mia a childhood like her own, of living conditions that keep her daughter ill, and shared custody with a man who degrades her efforts and challenges her choices. She is honest about hating her interactions with Mia’s father, but also being thankful for the breaks his custody visits provided. When she uses her food stamps in the grocery store, Mia on her hip, people yell, “You’re welcome,” as if she is sitting home all day accepting charity by choice. She has no time for friendships or rest, as she is ashamed of her condition and mentally and physically exhausted by her work. Her dreams of a better life, of a writing degree from the University of Montana, the school that had accepted her shortly before her pregnancy, this vision keeps her going. She wants to be a writer, and this time in this dark place provides the content for her first memoir. In the introduction, readers are asked to “abandon any stereotypes of domestic workers, single parents, media-derived images of poverty you may be harboring.” Land forces us to walk in her shoes, the heavy, torn, yet worn anyway shoes of people whose lives are not so different from ours, in that many of us are just one crisis away from financial ruin. This book opens our eyes to how so many live among us, how some of us may be living right now.

bayoueats

“The Original” Coney Island West Monroe “The Original” Coney Island West Monroe has been serving up diner favorites and continues to do so thanks to a whole lot of stored memories and consistent classic, homey dishes.

A R T I C L E BY VA N E L I S R I V E R A A N D PH OTO G R A PH Y BY K E L LY M O O R E C L A R K

here’s not a lot that can compete with a childhood memory, especially when it ties to food. Whether it’s a whiff of deep-fried goodness, the recognition of a particular color scheme, or just a good ‘ole bite of a greasy griller, the power of nostalgia works its way into the fabric of our subconscious and, without fail, reminds us of simpler times. It’s not too hard to find places between Monroe and West Monroe brimming with fond memories of times past, but some spots are a bit more tucked away and worth the effort of exploring. For a few decades, “The Original” Coney Island West Monroe has been serving up diner favorites and continue, to do so thanks to a whole lot of stored memories and consistent classic, homey dishes. Built around 1947, the building that currently houses the restaurant was first established as a doctor’s office. The original Coney Island West Monroe opened there in October of 1962 and has gone through four owners. The restaurant began with a father and son partnership, with ownership trickling down to Harry Auttonberry, who owned the landmark for twentyone years. Current owner, Shannon Harper, jumped at the opportunity to snag the place when it went on the market. Fifteen years of working in real estate and owning a few businesses provided Harper assurance, despite having no previous restaurant experience, that carrying on the Coney Island tradition would be a safe bet. “I never wanted to buy a restaurant because most of them can’t be open for only one meal a day and survive. Coney Island is a unique situation,” he says. Just open for lunch, the establishment packs the house, particularly during the lunch rush. This setup allows Harper to step in, tend to his other business in Bastrop, and then immerse himself in one of his favorite hobbies: “I can hunt in the morning, come in a couple of hours for rush hour, then hunt in the evening.” Managing a lunch-only arrangement doesn’t just point to good food, but dedicated employees. When Harper took the lead at Coney Island, Auttonberry stayed with him for a month showing him “the ropes” and with the additional help of veteran employees, some having served for as long as ten years, Harper got used to the restaurant’s unique clockwork. The first order of business for Harper when buying Coney Island West Monroe was to try everything on the menu. Though Harper would frequent the establishment during his high school days, the only item he returned to on the menu was the chili cheeseburger (hint: a must try). “I had all these big ideas about changing the menu and adding knock-out items,” he claims. But after trying Coney’s Country Fried Steak Sandwich he kept everything the same: “It was so good, I wasn’t ready to try something else.” Long-standing customers would probably agree—no need to fix something if it ain’t broke. Nevertheless, there is one menu item that was added on demand by a few customers: tamales. It took Harper two and a half years to find his east Texas

supplier and now they sell forty to sixty dozen of the delectable, steamed, corn-wrapped Mesoamerican crowd pleaser. Well balanced in spice level, you can order half a dozen or a dozen of their pork tamales plain or add chili and shredded cheese for an additional cost. Only wanting a taste? The tamale pie serves three tamales with chili and shredded cheese, a great option for an appetizer. Tamales or not, when it comes to the Coney Island name, images of roller-coasters, go-karts, boardwalk games, shops, sideshows, and, of course, hot dogs project through our minds like vintage home movies in all their glory. The original Coney Island hot dog is topped with options of mustard, onion, and cheese, but the West Monroe adaptation has one additional ingredient that keeps customers buzzing: the housemade chili. “We have a secret recipe,” claims Harper, making sure to emphasize that only he and Auttonberry have it, a heavily guarded secret of over twenty years. “Our chili cheeseburgers come in a close second,” he says, encouraging extra hungry customers to upgrade to the jumbo cheeseburger (half a pound of premium patty, cooked to order, and topped with mayonnaise, mustard, lettuce, tomato, onions, and cheese). Another in-house item that has been making its rounds is Coney’s ranch dressing. Another new addition, Harper was dead-set on creating one of his favorite condiments and after finding a recipe online, he tweaked it until it was menu-ready. “People come in here everyday and dip everything in it,” says Harper, disclosing that recently a customer ordered four house ranches to take with them. Whether you go the burger and dog route or opt for a sandwich, the one special ingredient that ties the menu together is the opportunity to feel forever young. “I’ve been coming here since I was a kid,” is a remark that’s often repeated at Coney Island. Harper has heard countless stories of patrons who remember attending regularly with their grandparents. And while some customers offer their enthusiasm and allegiance by showing up five to six days a week, not many have the high-roller status of brothers Roy and Frank Scalia. The Scalias have eaten at Coney Island for close to fifty years and every Monday a table is reserved for the siblings and their ten count posse. It’s always the same order: chili cheese hot dog and fries. “I’ve been buying hot dogs in here since they were fifteen cents a piece.” proclaims Frank. As much as the restaurant’s online reviews are overflowing with variants of “best hot dog in town,” many customers have left comments as an opportunity to recollect special moments in their lives that intersected at the restaurant. “Mike and I have been going to Coney Island West Monroe for about fifty-two years. He’d go all the way to Monroe, pick me up for a date, and we’d go back to Coney Island and get hot dogs for twenty-five cents,” relates a reviewer, admitting, “They may not be good for old people (Lol), but yes, they are as good as they were all those years ago. We have to go about every month or so!”

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T H E S EC R E T I N G R E D I E N T

The original Coney Island hot dog is topped with options of mustard, onion, and cheese, but the West Monroe adaptation has one additional ingredient that keeps customers buzzing: the house-made chili.

P O R K TA M A L E S

People really seem to respond to the intimacy and family friendly atmosphere of Coney Island. Even during the lunch rush, when the lack of abundance of square footage is most notable as you squeeze between fellow grubbers, the iconic all-American diner style of the space wins you over. From the iconic red and white color scheme, striped awning, and flagstone terraza floor, to the Route 66 themed accents, customers feel they’re dining in an authentic space. “Most of this stuff that you see on the walls, people gave to Harry,” says Harper. He points at a white toy motorcycle that some youngster left behind years ago, becoming the first Coney Island trinket. “When someone saw the motorcycle there, people just started leaving things.” The leftover tokens include vintage knickknackery and toys, but also extends to license plates from every state and even foreign countries such as Panama, the Bahamas, and Germany. “One of our good customers works at the DMV,” says Harper, who still has boxes of plates to keep mounting wherever there is available space. The plates collage a large portion of the restaurant’s walls and ceiling, forming borders and layering over old photographs and posters. Upon close inspection, a few vintage plates can be spotted, some dating back to the 1950s and 1960s. One of the oldest plates, from New York, dates to 1939! Lunch and a scavenger hunt just became a thing that’s bound to entertain the youngest and oldest customer for the span of their meal. Harper is often asked when he plans to open another Coney Island location, but he didn’t buy the restaurant to create a franchise. He wants to continue serving his loyal customers and keep this West Monroe tradition open for years to come. “Coney Island West Monroe has been here so long, you’d think everyone in Northeast Louisiana has passed through here, but every day we still have new customers come in,” says Harper. Clearly, their reputation precedes them, not a difficult feat for the longest established Coney Island in town. Maybe you’ve been eating at Coney Island since you were old enough to talk; or you remember eating a dozen of their chili cheeseburgers in one sitting; or maybe it’s your favorite place to feel American comfort; regardless, all that matters to the staff is that you enter, eat, and leave with the spirit and enthusiasm of a child— hungry and ready to enjoy the simplicity of indulging in guilty pleasures. When customers boast, “This place was great forty years ago and is still great,” that’s your cue to go and find out for yourself what great memories are made of… and taste like. “The Original” Coney Island West Monroe is located in 410 Natchitoches St, West Monroe, LA 71291. The restaurant is open Monday through Friday between 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM, and Saturday between 9:30 AM to 3 PM. Follow them on Facebook and feel free to give them a call at (318) 323-7610, especially if you want to pre-order a couple dozen of their tamales. 82 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Truly Lemonade A New Twist on Hard Seltzer

BY DELIA SIMPSON, CRAFT BRAND MANAGER, CHOICE BRANDS, INC.

T WAS HARD TO LOOK ANYWHERE ON SOCIAL MEDIA the last year without seeing someone holding up a can of Truly Sparkling Hard Seltzer. A quick search of #livetruly on Instagram or Facebook brings up thousands of images of people enjoying the sparkling, lightly flavored beverage. The brand seems to have no limits. From Millennials to Gen X’ers and even Boomers, everyone is hopping on the Truly train. An increase in the number of health-conscious consumers seems to be the driving factor for the seltzer craze. From nondairy milk to plant-based meat products, the desire for a “better for you” option is present in many food and beverage trends. While it has the same alcohol content as beer (5% ABV), Truly clocks in at one hundred calories and two grams of carbohydrates per twelve ounce can and contains no artificial sweeteners. It is also certified gluten free. With the start of a new year, many people are looking for a useful way to cut back on the carbs and calories of booze while still enjoying a beverage at their favorite events and occasions. Truly fits the bill on all counts. Truly is making a big splash in the seltzer category this month with the release of its newest product, Truly Lemonade. It will be available in original, mango, black cherry, and strawberry. Even if lemonade isn’t your thing, there should be a flavor that will hit the spot. “We took the feedback from drinkers and created Truly Lemonade for those looking for more flavor than traditional hard seltzer yet not willing to compromise on calories, carbs, or sugar,” Casey O’Neill, Boston Beer Company’s Senior Manager of Product Development said. “It really is the best of both worlds and brings together flavor and refreshment in a way that nothing else in the category does right now.” Truly Lemonade will hit shelves this month in grocery stores, convenience stores, and liquor stores. There will be a mixed twelve pack containing the four flavors as well as twenty four ounce cans of Original Lemonade. Truly Lemonade is delicious on its own but is also a great mixer for cocktails. See below for a couple of our favorite recipes.

TRULY BLACKBERRY LEMON FIZZ (makes one cocktail) Ingredients: 1 oz vodka ¼ cup blackberries (a couple reserved for garnish) 3-4 mint leaves ½ oz simple syrup (optional) 12oz can Truly Lemonade Lemon wheel for garnish Preparation: In an old-fashioned glass, muddle blackberries and mint with a muddler or wooden spoon. Add ice, vodka, and simple syrup (if using) and stir with a cocktail spoon. Top with Truly Lemonade and garnish with blackberries and lemon wheel. SPIKED STRAWBERRY LEMON SPRITZER (Makes a pitcher) Ingredients: 1/2 cup honey 8 strawberries, plus more for garnish 12 ounces vodka Juice of 4 lemons 16 ounces Truly Strawberry Lemonade 1 lemon, sliced Preparation: In a small saucepan, simmer honey and 1/2 cup water over medium-low heat, 2 minutes. Let cool. Place 1 hulled berry in each of 8 glasses; mash. Fill glasses with ice. In a pitcher, combine honey mixture, vodka, juice and Truly Strawberry Lemonade. Stir and divide among glasses. Garnish with berries and lemon slices. Be sure to like Choice Brands on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram to keep up with local happenings and new product releases. In addition, you’ll find links to beer related articles, fun recipes, and much more! Find us at facebook.com/choicebrands, twitter.com/choicebrandsinc, and instagram.com/choicebrands.

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Buttermilk Candy Ingredients:

3 cups sugar 1/4 cup light corn syrup 1 1/2 sticks butter 1 cup buttermilk 1 tsp. baking soda 1 cup chopped pecans

In large pot, combine sugar, corn syrup, butter, buttermilk and baking soda. Cook to 242-244 degrees F on candy thermometer. Remove from heat and beat until creamy. Add pecans. Pour in a buttered dish and cut into pieces when cooled; or drop by spoonfuls on buttered surface.

recipe by Evelyn Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neal and photo by Kelly Moore Clark

Refresh Your Home This Spring at Material Things Local Shop Features Home Decor and More

PRING IS JUST AROUND THE corner and with that comes a sense of rebirth and renewal. This is the perfect time to add some new life into your home. During the month of February, we are excited to offer 25% off special order items including: FABRIC, TRIM AND WALLPAPER: From Scalamandre to Fabricut and everything in between, I have access to anything you need for all of your home décor needs. In my work space/ design area of the shop, I have numerous books and fabric swatches to fulfill all tastes and styles. I also offer modern, as well as the tried and true traditional wallpaper swatches and books. DRAPERY HARDWARE: Drapery hardware company selections include Antique Drapery Hardware, Paris Texas Hardware, The Finial Company, and Graber. These companies offer an endless array of styles, finishes, sizes and options that will compliment anyone’s personal décor.

UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE: The MT Company is my number one company that I order from for upholstery. They are made in High Point, NC and offer a full lineup of options and standards that you expect from American made furniture. Gabby is another upholstered line that I frequently use and they also have the same wonderful US standards. DRAPERY: Not everyone can use the standard length ready made drapery panels available online or off the shelf. This is where Material Things comes in and can measure your space, help pick your fabric and fabricate them. I also offer installation on any product that my workrooms make. RUGS: I have great options from Classic Home, Kaleen and Lili Alessandra. Classic Home and Kaleen offer several really nice basic rugs, from traditional to comtemporary. Lili Alessandra is launching a new line of rugs that are absolutely out of this world. They have a nice textured ground with a little metallic running

through to add that touch of glamour that this company is known for. BEDDING: I offer Lili Alessandra as my ready made bedding line. This “touch of glamour yet practical” company has an extensive lineup of washer and dryer safe items. I am excited to acquire two new lines of bedding that are just as fantastic in style and practicality. SHADES: Graber offers a shade line, Tradewinds Natural, and they are phenomenal. I have these in my home and love them. They can be unlined, privacy lined or blackout lined as well as have cord or no cord. We also offer installation on these. Not only does Material Things offer many options when it comes to custom drapes, furniture, linens and more, I recently returned from market in Paris and am excited to share my finds. From designer showrooms to hidden markets, Material Things has treasures all over the world!

- Joyce

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You Don’t Always Have To Raise Your Hand ar ticl e by L AU R A W C L A R K

hen I was raking leaves in our front yard at six years old, my grandfather rested his large, heavy hand on my shoulder and said, “I like that you’re a hard worker and that you never quit.” I adored him, so his comments warmed me while we were outside in what I’m sure was 55-degree weather. More than three decades later, that South Dakota memory remains vivid, which illustrates how much his philosophies continue to shape my life. During my early 20s, I was the sole employee of a weekly newspaper in the Black Hills. I created story ideas (and assigned the stories to myself); photographed events; sold advertisements; tracked new subscriptions; designed the newspaper; and yes, delivered the newspaper to area businesses. The newspaper publishers, who lived in a nearby town, learned I was staying up all night to complete these tasks. One evening, they knocked on my apartment door and asked me to consider a reporter role at one of their other newspapers. I was horrified. I asked, “You want me to QUIT?” They responded, “We don’t want you to quit; we want you to try an easier job. We think maybe you don’t have enough experience for this job. You’re young, and this is a big role.” I convinced them I could do the job well. And I did. I also volunteered for additional duties, wanting to prove that I was a hard worker. For example, I began tracking my office’s copy machine revenue. Every time someone entered our office to make a copy, I got up from my desk, stopped writing, accepted their coins, and recorded the income. After two years at that weekly newspaper, 86 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

I felt so physically drained, I immediately accepted an offer for a reporter position at a large daily newspaper. Reflecting on that time, I should have asked the publishers for a full-time assistant. However, I wanted to prove that I could succeed and most importantly — not be a quitter. If I had received even part-time help, the quality of my stories, newspaper design, and my photos would have been better. A more reasonable workload would have allowed me to focus on substantive work that would have improved my skillset and, subsequently, my career. I want to write that I immediately altered my work philosophy to incorporate more focus. However, it took me several years to learn how to prioritize my work tasks. About 10 years ago, I asked one of my female mentors how she achieved such significant milestones. Her accomplishments appeared in an annual report and, thus, were widely known. She told me she began each morning with a post-it note that contained four primary goals for her day. If she received non-urgent phone calls or emails that did not pertain to one of those four goals, she saved them for a different day or delegated the work. I now use that same tactic. Many of us want to be team players, so when our managers ask for volunteers—even when the assignment is significantly below our skillset or is time-consuming—we want to help. And by “we,” I mean women. Upon realizing that female professionals volunteer more than their male counterparts, three notable social scientists conducted several experiments to determine why and how this happens. The researchers discovered two trends: managers ask women to volunteer for extra duties more than they ask men, and when managers ask women, women are much more likely to agree. These extra assignments are “non-promotable” tasks that benefit the company but not necessarily the individual who works on them. These tasks might be cleaning the office breakroom, organizing birthday celebrations, or serving on a committee whose work is rarely noticed by the administration. Why does this matter? Nonpromotable tasks can result in serious ramifications for women. These tasks have minor visibility, which hinders career advancement and performance evaluation, and they detract focus from the employee’s more essential work. The researchers concluded that although neither men nor women want to volunteer for undervalued tasks, women continue to volunteer more, are asked to volunteer more, and accept requests to volunteer more. There seems to be a shared belief—among both sexes—that women will volunteer more than men. One experiment revealed that in a group of men and women, men did not immediately volunteer, while the women did. However, in single-sex groups, men and women volunteered equally. So, what is the solution? Should we start declining all additional work requests? No. Should we volunteer for extra, non-promotable duties in the name of working hard? No. We need to focus on our priorities, and when asked to assume additional work, communicate those priorities with our supervisors. In addition, management should distribute the extra work equitably and consider rotating those assignments among all employees. Saying “yes” to non-promotable tasks may mean saying “no” to your professional aspirations. Be mindful of your workload and seek assignments that align with your expertise and your passion. That combination benefits both you and your company, allowing you to work hard for your organization and yourself. Laura W. Clark, is the owner of Vivian’s Voice, LLC, a communications consulting company, can be reached at findyours@viviansvoice.com

Reclaim Your Health

Emily is Grateful to Dr. Liles for Treating Her Varicose Veins

NTIL RECENTLY, EMILY FIELDS wore dark pantyhose—even in the Louisiana heat—to cover the rope-like veins in her legs. A physician told her 15 years ago that her varicose veins, a painful condition that occurs when veins become damaged and prevent proper blood flow, would eventually cause her health problems. But it was Emily’s kitty that motivated her to take action. Emily, 81 years old and recently a widow, remains active, maintaining her home and tending to her black and white cat, Patches. One day, she accidentally stepped on her kitty’s tail, and Patches instinctively swiped at Emily’s leg. While her varicose veins did not become infected, Emily realized she needed to avoid similar mishaps. “I had this condition for years, and the veins continued to get bigger and bigger. The leg pain started several years ago. And honestly, the veins were ugly. I knew the condition wasn’t healthy,” Emily said.

While Emily understood that her varicose veins could create health ramifications, many Americans assume this condition is merely a cosmetic issue. Untreated varicose veins can create a variety of complications, including skin discoloration, ulcers, blood clots, and more. Dr. Bart Liles, a general surgeon at the Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana, performed radiofrequency ablation—a procedure that sends heat to the veins and closes off blood flow—on Emily’s varicose veins. He treated one leg in October and the other in December of 2019. “There was nothing to it. I was asleep both times, and afterward, I felt no pain after the procedures and no pain since,” Emily said. Emily remembered something else—how the surgery clinic staff made her feel. “Dr. Liles is outgoing and friendly; he made me feel at ease. He was very conscientious about how I felt. I had to wear shorts while he performed the initial ultrasound on my legs,

and of course, that made me feel vulnerable. However, he and Monica (who coordinates the vein program) made me laugh, which made me feel relaxed and comfortable. They are just great people—kind, caring, and efficient.” Emily, a former supervisor for the placement section within the Louisiana Department of Labor, recognizes efficiency and often observed it at the surgery clinic. “I appreciate it when people know what they’re doing, and there is no guessing,” she said. “Since my procedures, a lot of people have asked me about it. My immediate response is to tell them to do it. I think a lot of people avoid it because, for the past several decades, it has had a reputation for being a painful procedure, but it wasn’t.” Liles, and his clinic partners, Dr. Walter Sartor and Dr. Patrick Smith, ensure patients experience the best care. “Our patients’ health and comfort are of the utmost importance. If patients feel any discomfort, we aren’t doing our job. So, we are proud to offer sedation anesthesia, which is administered by CRNAs (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists),” Liles said. Maintaining self-confidence and physical health is essential, Emily said. “I no longer feel self-conscious about my legs, I’m not in pain anymore, and I know I did the right thing for my health. I highly recommend Dr. Liles.”

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Wine Over Water Celebrates 15th Anniversary

OSTED BY THE ULM ALUMNI ASSOCIATION AND THE Ouachita Parish Alumni Chapter, Wine Over Water is your opportunity to support scholarship funds by attending an exclusive party on the beautiful ULM campus. Proceeds from the night benefit the Spirit of the Warhawk Endowed Scholarship, which is instrumental in attracting our local scholars to ULM. Friday, April 17th will be an unforgettable night for our 15th anniversary event. The celebration will be held from 7-10 p.m. on the Northeast Drive Bridge and will overlook beautiful Bayou DeSiard. With food from many local restaurants, wine provided by Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, and beer provided by Marsala Beverage, your taste buds will be delighted. This year we hope to create a new culinary experience for our guests featuring suggested wine/beer and food pairings that are sure to make the evening special, informative and deliciously fun! You will receive a commemorative wine glass, sunset boat rides on the bayou with B&L Marine and entertainment featuring the popular band, Flashback 5. You do not want to miss this evening of fun, and tickets are only $60. The evening’s attire is dressy casual. The Tonore’s Cork Pull is back by popular demand. With over 50 bottles of wine up for grabs, you can purchase a cork for $25 and take home a mystery bottle of wine for you to enjoy. No bottles are valued at less than $25, but many are worth more. Not only do you have the chance to win spectacular wine, you are also supporting ULM. In addition, a Patron Party will be held prior to Wine Over Water. This event will begin at 6:00 p.m. and last until 7:30 p.m. in the ULM Library, on the seventh floor. This will give you the best view of campus, and allow you to begin enjoying the celebration prior to the bridge opening. Patron Party tickets include lively entertainment, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, event wine glasses, a special commemorative keepsake, and attendance to the Bridge Party. These exclusive tickets are available through sponsorship packages or purchased for $125 each. The Spirit of the Warhawk Endowed Scholarship supports local students pursuing their undergraduate degree at ULM. Your ticket purchase ensures students of Northeast Louisiana can continue to strive for academic excellence and ease the financial burden. Numerous scholarships have been awarded since the event’s inception and our goal is to increase support for our students through Wine Over Water each year. The Ouachita Parish Alumni Chapter hosts events throughout the year to connect alumni and friends. Sponsorship opportunities and tickets are available online at ulm.edu/wine, by calling 318-342-5420, or at the Laird Weems Center located at 4400 Bon Aire Drive. Office hours are Monday – Thursday 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., and Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Don’t wait; get your ticket today and support the Spirit of the Warhawk Endowed Scholarship! To learn more about the ULM Alumni Association, please visit ulm.edu/alumni.

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Warning Signs Of a Heart Attack

N THE UNITED STATES, CORONARY HEART DISEASE, which includes heart attack, causes 1 of every 4 deaths. Someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds in the U.S., but many of those deaths can be prevented — by acting fast. Some heart attacks are sudden and intense. But most start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Here are some of the signs that can mean a heart attack is happening: • Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain. • Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. • Shortness of breath. May occur with or without chest discomfort. • Other signs: These may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness. As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are more likely than men to have some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/ vomiting, and back or jaw pain. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I SUSPECT A HEART ATTACK? Even if you’re not sure it’s a heart attack, immediately call 9-1-1 or your local emergency medical services (EMS) such as the fire department or ambulance. EMS staff can begin treatment when they arrive — up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car. Patients with chest pain who arrive by ambulance usually receive faster treatment at the hospital, too. WHAT ELSE CAN I DO? Before there’s an emergency, it’s a good idea to find out which hospitals in your area have 24-hour emergency cardiac care. Also, keep a list of emergency phone numbers next to your phone and with you at all times, just in case. Take these steps NOW. WHY DON’T PEOPLE ACT FAST ENOUGH? Many people having a heart attack wait more than two hours before getting help. Some people feel it would be embarrassing to have a “false alarm.” Others are so afraid of having a heart attack that they tell themselves they aren’t having one. These feelings are easy to understand, but they’re also very dangerous. If you or someone close to you shows signs of a heart attack, call 9-1-1 and get help right away! HOW CAN I HELP TO AVOID A HEART ATTACK? • Don’t smoke, and avoid second-hand smoke. • Treat high blood pressure if you have it. • Eat foods that are low in saturated fat, trans fat, sodium (salt) and added sugars. • Be physically active. • Reach and maintain a healthy weight. • Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes. • Get regular medical check-ups. • Take medicine as prescribed. Sources: American Heart Association; cdc.gov St. Francis Medical Center offers 24-hour emergency cardiac care, an Accredited Chest Pain Center and a full range of cardiac and cardiovascular services. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2020 89

IT BEGAN WITH FRIENDSHIP Historical Impressions

b y G u y M i l l e r, V i c e C h a i r E m e r i t u s , C h e n n a u l t Av i a t i o n a n d M i l i t a r y M u s e u m

n February 20, 1962 American astronaut John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth. Glenn’s Mercury spacecraft, the “Friendship 7,” reached an altitude of 162 miles and Glenn made three orbits before returning to Earth after a little less than five hours. John Glenn was actually the third American to travel in space but the prior two astronauts did not reach orbit. Alan Shepard made a suborbital flight of 15 minutes on May 5, 1961. On July 21st of that same year, Virgil “Gus” Grissom completed a similar 15 minute flight. Despite America’s dominance over the past 55 or so years, the United States was playing catch up during the first 15 years of technology development for space travel. Capping several years of “firsts” by his nation, the first human to reach space was also the first to orbit the Earth. Russian cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin was sent into space on April 12, 1961; and completed one orbit during his flight. Although it took America 10 months to duplicate the Russian success, President John F. Kennedy was confident enough after that success to eventually make his famous commitment to land an American on the moon before the end of the decade. I am old enough to have some memories of the space race between the United States and Russia. In the decade before my birth, lead German rocket scientist Wernher von Braun escaped to America at the end of World War II but Soviet troops captured the German rocket testing facilities at Peenemünde and many of von Braun’s fellow German scientists. The Russians gained more initial advantage from German research and rocket technology than did our nation. The day before my second birthday, October 4, 1957, a Soviet intercontinental ballistic missile launched Sputnik 1, the world’s first man-made object to be placed into Earth orbit. Sputnik orbited the earth and transmitted radio signals for twenty-one days; twenty-one days where each radio beep was perceived as a technological threat to America and a statement of Russian superiority. It was clear that Soviet Russia had the capability to launch rockets that could carry nuclear warheads to any location on the planet as well as launch reconnaissance satellites that could see anywhere with impunity. On November 3rd the Soviets doubled down with the launch of Sputnik 2, a spacecraft with a passenger, a dog named Laika. The U.S. Congress, alarmed by what they perceived as a threat to national security and American technological leadership, wanted immediate and swift action. President Dwight D. Eisenhower and his administration believed a calm, deliberate approach was more appropriate. On January 12, 1958, the “Special Committee on Space Technology” was organized and two days later published “A National Research Program for Space Technology” wherein it stated:

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“It is of great urgency and importance to our country both from consideration of our prestige as a nation as well as military necessity that this challenge [Sputnik] be met by an energetic program of research and development for the conquest of space ... It is accordingly proposed that the scientific research be the responsibility of a national civilian agency ...” Two weeks later the United States matched Russia by launching its own satellite, Explorer I, on January 31, 1958. Then on July 29th, Eisenhower signed the National Aeronautics and Space Act, establishing National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), a federal agency dedicated to space exploration. Because there was also a national defense consideration to space flight, Eisenhower additionally created two national security-oriented space programs that would operate simultaneously with NASA’s program. The U.S. Air Force was authorized to take charge of the military potential of space. A second program required the coordination of the Central Intelligence Agency, the Air Force and a new organization called the National Reconnaissance Office to develop orbiting satellites to gather intelligence on the Soviet Union and other nations considered threats to U.S. Security. President Eisenhower was right to believe America needed to establish programs to match and exceed the Soviet space capabilities. In May 1958, the Soviets launched Sputnik III which had a payload of almost three thousand pounds. By 1959, the Russian Lunik spacecraft had reached the moon and even photographed its dark side. These Russian advances in space technology all lead up to the April 1961 launch of Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin who orbited the Earth in his Vostok 1 space capsule. The U.S. space effort moved quickly during 1958-1961 with the development and launches of varying types of satellites. One carried monkeys into space and another went to the moon. NASA also conducted manned flight research using the X-15 rocket plane. To send a man into space, NASA engineers designed a cone-shaped capsule that was smaller than the Russian Vostok NASA was able to test this Mercury spacecraft with a chimpanzee passenger in January 1961 before the Soviets could raise the bar with Gagarin’s launch in April. The flight of John Glenn in February 1962 was the pivotal event in the space race. From that point forward America pulled ahead with its manned and unmanned capabilities and did indeed fulfill Kennedy’s dream of landing an American on the moon before the end of the 1960s. I feel privileged to have lived and watched all of those manned flights. From Shepard, Grissom and Glenn and continuing through the Apollo 11 moon landing it was truly an era of wonder and pride for all Americans.

Let the Chick Cater to You

Introducing Nici Hanks as Catering Coordinator

ELCOME TO CHICKEN SALAD Chick, where we offer delicious, scratch-made,Southern-style, craveable favorites served from the heart. We don’t believe in strangers, just friends we haven’t met yet—so come in and enjoy! You’ll find fresh, healthy fare and gracious hospitality at our chicken salad restaurant. We know everyone has a different idea of what makes the perfect chicken salad recipe, so we’ve created several options. If you’re a chicken salad lover, you’ll discover something here to satisfy your tastes. From simple to savory to fruity and nutty or even a little spicy, you can pick the chick that suits your mood. We have over a dozen varieties of chicken salads along with pimento cheese or egg salad, served by the scoop, sandwich, or bowl. You’ll also find delicious sides, soups, and desserts in addition to the scoops of chicken salad that started it all. Are you planning on bringing your little chicks along? We have a

great kids menu. For quick, amazing meals we even offer convenient carryout. At Chicken Salad Chick, we use fresh ingredients and time-honored traditions. We take great pride in making our flavors by hand each morning, using only premium chicken tenderloins, and our special combinations of sweet and savory ingredients. While you are here, consider yourself an honorary chick! We believe food brings people together, so we always provide service with a smile and aim for you to leave our chicken salad restaurants happy with your meal and refreshed from time well spent. FOLLOW YOUR APPETITE & EARN REWARDS Download the Chicken Salad Chick App from the App Store or Google Play. Every time you enjoy our mouthwatering menu of fresh, scratch-made chicken salad, pimento cheese, and other favorites, you’ll earn one point for every dollar you spend. Redeem them for special discounts, free food

items, and fun Chick gear. At Chicken Salad Chick, we love to share the love. Get the App, scan your barcode, and get start earning points today! If you are planning on hosting an event, let Nici Hanks , our new catering coordinator, help you plan your event. Let her help you customize your catering order to perfectly fit your needs. Call in and order from our catering menu or ask Nici to help you and we will have your food ready for you when you need it. We can also deliver your catering and large group orders. Let us cater and take ten dollars off your catering order until the end of February. 1191 Lamy Lane, Suite 7 Monroe, Louisiana Call (318) 322-4425

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Friday Ellis for Mayor Serving His Community With Dignity and Respect

RIDAY ELLIS’S PRESENCE ON THE MAYORAL BALLOT may seem unlikely. He is the son of a sharecropper and spent his childhood in a sparse, two-bedroom house in rural Rayville, Louisiana. However, what their home lacked in luxury, it made up for in love. Ellis was raised in a single-parent household by his father, Oliver Friday Ellis,Sr., or as his friends knew him “Mr. Friday.” His upbringing was not extravagant, but Friday, Sr. made sure that his son’s formative years were rich in other ways. Mr. Friday was a character—no question. He was the type of man whose presence could be felt immediately when he entered a room. He was larger than life. His charismatic smile was contagious, and he knew how to spin a tale that would captivate anyone within earshot. He looked out for his neighbor and never met a stranger. His generosity was well known in his community, and he treated all people with dignity and respect, regardless of their station in life. He led by example and lived with integrity. These are all traits he passed down to his son, Friday Ellis, Jr. Though Friday Ellis may be a carbon copy of the father he admired greatly, he is his own man. His steps are guided by the God he serves, and he has created a colorful life based on the principles and values he knows to be true. Educated in Rayville, he chose to settle in Monroe early on. It is in Monroe that he met his wife, Ashley Ellis. The two fell in love and never looked back. They married in May 2001, and like many Americans, their lives were greatly impacted by the tragedy of September 11th. Just two months later, Friday Ellis enlisted in the United States Marine Corps because he knew his country needed those willing to serve. The couple lived in several locations around the United States while Ellis devotedly fulfilled his commitment to the Marines. They eventually settled in Monroe and continued building their careers and planning for a family of their own. Ellis began work in Project Management for the City of Monroe’s Engineering Department, where he gained knowledge and understanding of the city’s infrastructure and operations as a Construction Inspector. This experience proved to be an invaluable education for Ellis and allowed him to gain a sophisticated sense of the resources, assets, and deficiencies within the framework of our city. Stepping out on faith, Ellis pursued his passion for cigars and opened Governors Cigar & Pipe in the heart of Monroe’s historic Garden District. For Ellis, this was only the beginning. He traveled to Nicaragua, partnered with a well-respected cigar factory to produce a cigar line of

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his own — the highly sought after Governor and First Lady. His cigars have been sold to customers across the world. Friday Ellis knew he wanted to build a family with his wife based on the same ideals and values that were instilled in him by his late father. Together, the couple has three children: Friday III, Asher, and Aurie, who attend Monroe City Schools. Their sons arrived first, much to their delight. Ellis was elated at the idea of forming the same close bond with his sons that he shared with his father. “Being a father is my greatest station in life,” he reveals. Although overjoyed with the children they were blessed with, their family was not yet complete. Ashley learned of a little girl in foster care who was in need of a forever family. Although her challenges were great, she immediately touched their hearts. Ashley and Friday felt certain that God had led them on the journey to adopt. “We knew she was our child,” recalled Ashley Ellis. With open arms and hearts, they welcomed Aurie Ellis into their home. Her new siblings fell in love with their little sister, and their family was complete. Friday Ellis recalls dining at a local restaurant with the family when the waitress commented on Aurie’s beautiful curly hair. A huge smile appeared on her face. Without hesitation, she looked up at Ashley and said, “Yep! Just like my mama.” The Ellis Family is living proof of the love and acceptance that we are all capable of through faith. These are values that Ellis is proud to instill in his family, along with a strong sense of social responsibility. He hopes to use these values as a foundation for the leadership he can provide to Monroe. “The most valuable tool for change is your willingness to serve and your unique story,” explains Ashley. “Being elected to the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) is important to me because I believe education is the ticket to prosperity.” “Look, we aren’t afraid to do the heavy lifting and get our hands dirty,” Ellis says. “I want to see Monroe go from a city of memories to a city of momentum.” On April 4th, citizens will be called to reaffirm their commitment to our city by choosing the next Mayor of Monroe. Is our city measuring up? Or is it time to forge a new path ahead? Either way, residents will make a choice to determine our future. Monroe’s future is Friday. Early Voting Dates: March 21-28 | Election Day: April 4

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Ready to Move In

Private Executive Suites in Downton Monroe

HE AVERY SUITES SITE WAS ORIGINALLY BUILT IN downtown Monroe. It was operated by Cottom Haddad and the family as Monroe’s downtown super store with everything for the family from clothing to furniture to appliances to shoes. It later moved to Avenue of the America. Many will recall that for a number of years, it was Charlie Calhoun’s Used Office Furniture. If you needed anything for the office, Charlie had it. In 2018, Wayne and Kathy Williamson bought the 17,000 sq. ft. building and decided that it would be a great downtown office location for small businesses, sales people, attorneys, tax preparation agents and new start-ups. Wayne created the original design and TB Architects did the rest. Wayne and Kathy named Avery Suites after one of their ten grandchildren, Avery Robertson, an eighth grader at Sterlington Middle School. The front 2,000 sq. ft. are corporate offices for the Williamson’s various businesses enterprises housing clerical, accounting and maintenance personnel with over 4,500 sq. ft. dedicated to Avery Suites 19 offices. They also have 54 climate controlled storage units under the name Will Stor. We are happy to be snuggled up next to Rustico’s boutique, except it’s too close for Kathy since she loves Kempa, the owner, and all of her clothing lines too much. Avery Suites are executive office suites located in downtown Monroe, Louisiana. These offices are fully furnished and offer a friendly and professional atmosphere for entrepreneurs and businesses to work and meet with their clients. Each suite has a unique phone number, personal address, and a dedicated 8 to 5 on-site receptionist. Avery Suites has two locations–one at 601 North Fifth and a branch location at North 9th Street in Monroe. Our executive suites are your professional headquarters. Every executive suite comes with many amenities. From your very own climate-controlled office with a thermostat to our available conference room–Avery Suites is set up to help you succeed. Not only do you get a fully-furnished, top-of-the-line office to work and engage clients in, but we also have onsite personnel that is interested in your success. Wayne and Kathy Williamson have over 40 years of experience in building and operating multi-million dollar businesses. We have the expertise to help you kickstart your career! WHY CHOOSE OUR OFFICES • Near city government and other prominent businesses • A variety of offices choices • Offices with window options available • Individual thermostat w/individual climate control • Accommodations for connecting multiple offices together • Located together with storage facilities • Close-by office parking Avery Suites is a customized workspace for rent whenever you need it! Avery Suites offers ergonomic office furniture, a professional business environment, a convenient downtown Monroe location, and much, much, more! Go on-line to Avery Suites to rent a space or come in and we will take care of you.

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NE Louisiana’s Premier Spa Thank You for the Love and Support

PA NOUVELLE HAS BEEN ONE OF THE LEADING SPAS in northeast Louisiana for 10 years. Partners Mary Beth Dickerson, Ana Lopez Hale, Drew Farr and Wendy Newsom 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: body treatments, massages, facials, waxing, microdermabrasion, dermaplanning, H2O/Oxygen treatment, airbrush tanning, chemical peels, lash and brow tinting, SkinCeuticals products, DoTerra and essential oils and diffusers. 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. When you select the spa day experience, you can tailor the entire experience to your specific needs. Lockers, luxurious bathrobes, towels, showers, and sandals are provided for your use during your day. Three and a half hours of uninterrupted relaxation is designed to help you escape from stress. The experience includes a light lunch, spa day customized luxury massage, and spa day red carpet treatment facial that includes product consultation. Spa Nouvelle can also host a spa party for a group. Whether it’s a day of pampering with your bridesmaids, a mom’s day out, or a staff retreat, they can accommodate the whole gang or just a few special ladies… or men. From beginning to end, the dedicated spa team at Spa Nouvelle will ensure that your visit enhances your well-being. If you’re needing a gift and not sure what to get them, online gift certificates are available at www.spanouvelle.com. The 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 their massage therapists are A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! Some favorite styles of massage include the signature massage, their signature massage is a spa favorite with 80 minutes of body work with essential oils. The deep tissue massage is a wonderful remedy for those tired muscles from all those pre-wedding workouts. They also offer therapeutic body work, pre-natal and executive massages. Call them at 318.816.4949, visit the website, or find them on Facebook and Instagram to book your appointment today.

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thoughts and feelings about themselves and displays them, children will learn those behaviors. A child’s brain says, “Wow! I think my mom/dad/auntie/caregiver is awesome, but I hear them being mean to themselves about the way they look. And if they’re not as awesome as I think they are, then maybe I’m not as awesome as they think I am.” Self-respect is interrelated to selfconfidence. When a person admires who they are, they can face hardships confidently and trust their own decision-making. Self-respect and self-confidence can be quantified in a myriad of ways, including feelings that one possesses good qualities and satisfaction with oneself.

Self-Confidence and Self-Respect

BY THE CHILDREN’S COALITION FOR NORTHEAST LOUISIANA

elf-respect and self-confidence are Alexandra Cory, LMSW, CFLE-P~ is a not the same as self-esteem. They are Training and Technical Assitsance Coordinator components of self-esteem and are for the Working to Institutionalize Sex based on valuing yourself for who Education (WISE) Initiative at the Georgia you are, but they are Campaign for Adolescent Power outward facing; whereas selfand Potential in Atlanta, GA. esteem is inward facing. SelfShe trains and advises schoolesteem concentrates on the based staff who are interested value you give to your abilities in comprehensive sex education. and skills. Self-respect and Alexandra has earned a Bachelor self-confidence refer to the of Science in Family and Child positive feelings that you have Studies and a Master of Social about yourself; you value who Work from Grambling State you are, you believe you can do University. Her professional something. Having self-respect background includes educating and self-confidence are very parents on child development important. It is a form of selfand working with adults living love, showing that you accept with substance use disorder. AL E X AND R A CO RY yourself for who you are, no matter what others say. If you are Q: What is the most important lacking self-respect ro self-confidence, you can thing parents need to know about selfeasily be ridiculed and put down by others. It is confidence and self-respect? much more productive to take positive action A: Cambridge University describes selfbased on having a healthy self-respect or selfrespect as, “positive thoughts and feelings confidence, regardless of your thoughts and about yourself.” Children learn what this looks feelings. Your actions also will help improve like through modeling from their parents and your self-esteem. caregivers. If a parent or caregiver has negative 96 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Q: Why is it important for parents to talk to their children about self-confidence and selfrespect? A: People who feel good about themselves have the confidence to try new things and to try again if they fail at first. As a result, healthy self-confidence and self-respect helps kids do better at school, at home, and with friends. A person who does not feel sure of themselves, however, may let others treat them poorly and may have a hard time standing up for themselves. They may give up easily, or not try at all. Promoting children’s confidence provides them with the tools needed to make good choices. Children make decisions all the time but are often unaware that they are doing so. Encouraging your child to consciously make wise decisions includes helping a child clarify the problem, identifying their feelings about the situation, brainstorming possible solutions, and allowing the child to choose the best solution. A parent can follow-up with their child about the solution to see how it worked out for them. Q: What can you do to increase a child’s selfconfidence and self-respect? A: Help your child learn to do things. This may be showing them a video, walking them through step by step directions, or even making up a fun song to learn a new task. When teaching kids how to do things, show and help them at first; teach by example, then let them do what they can, even if they make mistakes. Don’t make new challenges too easy or too hard. Think about the first time you learned to tie your shoelaces or even hold a pencil. It was challenging but you figured it out with practice. Focus on your child’s strengths and not their areas of improvement. Pay attention to what your child does well and enjoys. Give your child opportunities to develop these strengths. Also, encourage them to work on their areas of improvement with kind words.

Let kids help and give. Self-esteem grows when children see what they do matters to others. Let your child help at home, do a service project in the community, or do a favor for a sibling. Helping and acts of kindness build self-respect and other good feelings. Q: What are some of the short and long-term outcomes of selfconfidence and self-respect? A: Children and youth who have a healthy self-confidence value themselves and think of themselves as worthy partners and capable problem solvers. They develop a healthy balance of liking who they are, while also recognizing ways they can continue to grow and develop. Because they believe they are worthy of being cared for by others, children with high self-confidence and self-respect are less likely to stay in abusive or exploitive situations than children with lower self-confidence and self-respect. They are also more likely to take care of themselves physically and emotionally and to persist in difficult and effortful pursuits, such as completing education or mastering an occupation or trade. In contrast, children and youth with low self-respect and selfconfidence are more likely to have emotional and social problems than their peers with higher self-respect and self-confidence because they assume they lack the ability to be effective in difficult situations and give up too soon. They may be more likely to be victimized or exploited by others because they do not believe they deserve to be treated well, or because they believe they lack the capabilities necessary to better or escape their situation.

“Children with high self-confidence and self-respect are less likely to stay in abusive or exploitive situations.”

Q: How do I find the best balance for my child? A: Every child is different, and self-esteem may come easier to some kids than others. A parent can best promote self-confidence and selfrespect by encouraging their children and modeling healthy behaviors themselves.

RESOURCES Smiling Minds

Smiling Minds https://www.smilingmind.com.au/ is a free app designed to help “every mind thrive.” Designed especially for youth by educators and psychologists, it provides tools for daily mindfulness activities. There are different programs for different age groups including children as young as 7 years old to adults, and programs for specific applications, such as meditation for sports, education, and the workplace.

Jan Daniels, Youth Development Director at the Children’s Coalition, works with middle schools in northeast Louisiana to provide the suicide prevention program Signs of Suicide (SOS) and the abstinenceplus program Rights, Respect and Responsibility. Call Jan at (318) 323-8775 or go to www.childrenscoalition. org to learn more about how you can get these programs at your child’s school. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2020 97

What’s Different About Will Stor? The Safe Climate Controlled Storage Unit You Need

INDING A STORAGE UNIT THAT you can trust can sometimes be tricky. Knowing the things to look for while unit shopping is crucial to your experience. First, you need to take a look at the things you plan to put into storage. You may already have an idea of the size of storage unit you want to rent, but keep in mind that you don’t want to just rent a storage unit that will fit all of your items, you want a unit where you can fit yourself inside with a little room to work. If you ever want to be able to get your items out, you don’t want to pack your storage space wall to wall, floor to ceiling. Will-Stor has different size storage units available-small, medium and large, to help the customer figure what best suits them and their needs. Do you have anything that’s temperature sensitive? You may need a climate-controlled unit that’s indoors, as opposed to a generic garage-style unit that’s outdoors. At Will-Stor we have climate controlled storage units, that

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regulates a storage unit’s indoor temperature that is kept at a solid 76-80 degrees at all times and even cooler during the winter. This maintains a constant humidity level yearround. This is great for our crazy Louisiana weather. Are your items valuable? You’ll likely want a unit that has good security and monitoring. Will-Stor has made it a priority to have a safe and secure building. We have on-site attendants from 8-5, Monday through Friday that are happy to assist you in way possible. We have made sure that the parking is safe by providing enough lighting to fully light the whole parking lot. Our units have highly secured entry as well. Upon purchase, you will get two apps on your mobile phone. One app opens the outside door at 405 Pine Street and the second app opens your storage unit. No padlocks for thieves to cut off and steal your valuables. Monroe natives, Wayne and Kathy

Williamson, have come up with the most modern self-storage facility in Monroe. Connected to their Avery Suites offices ,this storage unit has 24/7 access when using your apps upon purchase. They have created a very safe environment by surrounding the building with cameras, placing lighting where light needs to be and doing away with pad locks. They are proud to say that no crime has been reported in the area and this is a very safe place to keep your most valuable belongings. For the month of February, we are offering opening specials with no deposit! Call today or go by their office today to grab this great deal.

It’s Working Out Without Working Out DermaMediq Introduces EmSculpt to Our Area

AVE YOU EVER HEARD THE SAYING “Nobody’s perfect?” There’s no such thing. I would like to start off by saying that everyone’s body is beautiful because it’s yours and no one else’s, and that’s pretty awesome. Between all the pressure from societal body ideals and being our own worst critic, it can be difficult to achieve your personal physique goals or simply feel comfortable in your own skin. There is almost always a part of your body that you would love to change and get rid of unwanted fluff or flab. Well we have the solution for those stubborn areas. Dermemediq’s in Monroe is now offering EmSculpt. Dr.Sowma is the only one in the area to have this technology and let me tell you the results are amazing. WHAT IS EMSCULPT? The FDA-approved in-office machine is a first-of-it’s kind, non-invasive body-contouring device that uses High Intensity Focused

Electro Magnetic energy to activate muscle contractions, which strengthens muscles while also creating a metabolic reaction to break down fat. No other technology has the capability to address both muscle and fat at the same time. Emsculpt has two applicators, which can be used individually or simultaneously on either the abdomen or buttocks. HOW DOES EMSCULPT WORK? The paddles can go over lightweight clothing or directly onto skin. Over the course of 30 minutes, Emsculpt induces approximately 20,000 contractions, the equivalent of doing 20,000 crunches or squats in a half hour. The treatment begins on a low setting and the intensity is gradually increased according to the patient’s tolerance. Most patients reach 100-percent intensity in their first session. In between intensity increments there is a resting phase: During this mode, the machine flushes

lactic acid from the muscles so you get all the gain without the pain. As soon as the half-hour is complete, you are out the door: no down time, no redness, no swelling — really nothing but stronger muscles fibers in record time. That’s incredible! HOW DOES IT FEEL? The feeling is pretty indescribable. It’s not painful, it’s just uncomfortable. Your muscles are contracting involuntarily. Some have described the feeling as deep vibrations or a weird buzzing feeling. It can be a little alarming at first but most get use to the sensation pretty quickly. The following treatments will be better because you already know the feeling and you’re muscles will already be relaxed. For more information about EmSculpt, you can always call the office from 9am-4 pm, Monday through Friday, to talk with one of the lovely ladies about any questions or concerns you may have about EmSculpt.

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GO CARE Community Health Center Healthy Body, Healthy Mind, Healthy Life

O CARE COMMUNITY HEALTH held its ribbon-cutting Center ceremony and open house on Thursday, January 23, 2020 to celebrate the organization’s expansion into providing primary healthcare, behavioral health, and support services to the people of Northeast Louisiana. GCCHC has proudly served the Northeast Louisiana region since 1988 in providing HIV and STI education, testing, treatment, and support services. Since opening its own clinic in June 2015, organizational leadership recognized that GCCHC’s model of providing an affirming, inclusive, and safe space for comprehensive medical and behavioral health care should be expanded to include people who are low-income and medically underserved and people who are LGBTQ+. GCCHC clings to the philosophy that all people are deserving of comprehensive, culturally sensitive, quality-driven, and respectful healthcare –

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regardless of income level, gender identity, or sexual orientation. The new designation comes after fifteen months of working diligently and garnering support from community partners, elected officials, and governmental agencies, with the organization receiving Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alike designation on November 01, 2019. GCCHC’s Chief Executive Officer, Mark Windham states: “The FQHC Look-Alike designation is a tremendous accomplishment for GO CARE. We saw a considerable amount of unmet needs with regard to comprehensive healthcare and behavioral health services in Northeast Louisiana and feel we have a duty as a community-based organization to seek every possible avenue within our capabilities to bridge that gap.” The organization will be bringing additional medical providers, behavioral health providers, and support staff on board throughout 2020 to better

accommodate the needs of the people in Northeast Louisiana. GCCHC is excited to offer services based on a sliding fee scale for people who are low-income and uninsured or underinsured, thereby working to remove the cost barrier that otherwise prevents many people from seeking the medical or behavioral health care they need and deserve. ABOUT GCCHC GCCHC provides accessible, comprehensive, and high-quality healthcare, behavioral health, and support services for people in an affirming and inclusive setting, with an emphasis on people who are low-income and medically underserved, people who are LGBTQ+, and people who are living with HIV. For more information, visit our website at www.go-care.org or give us a call at (318) 325-1092.

Azalea Estates of Monroe

Compassionately Caring for North Louisiana’s Seniors for over 24 years

ZALEA ESTATES ASSISTED LIVING and Retirement Communities are under new ownership. With the same great staff you have come to know and love, Azalea Estates will have a new look but continue as if has for over 24 years. Our company strives to set new standards each year for services, amenities, and programs designed to keep our residents as active and independent as possible. While our communities’ surroundings and home-like atmosphere are wonderful, what truly sets Azalea Estates apart is our staff and their understanding of the true meaning of service to our residents. Our goal is for you walk into one of our Azalea Estates and say, “It feels like home.” We strive to accommodate all of our residents and make them feel at home. We have individual apartments in single bedroom or two bedroom. We also have a studio option available, as well as, our new

secured “Legacy Wing”. The Legacy Wing provides care for residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. We want our residents to be comfortable and happy while staying at Azalea Estates. Some of the accommodations we provide are weekly housekeeping and laundry service. We also provide transportation to and from doctor appointments. There are scheduled daily group activities, weekly social outings, family dinners and special events. Table service breakfast, lunch and dinner in the dining hall everyday. We want the transition into assisted living to be easy and carefree. Our living options include: • Retired Living • Assisted Living • Memory Care • Respite Care Few other senior living communities can compare to the lifestyle, features, amenities, and outstanding value that Azalea

Estates offers each resident. The very best way to learn about us is to come by and see our communities, have a meal with us, meet our residents and staff, and see how much fun we have and how you can make tomorrow better than today. Special offering is happening now for a limited time. Please call or stop by to see how you or your loved ones can continue living YOUR best life. Azalea Estates of Monroe 318-350-6576 4380 OLD STERLINGTON RD MONROE, LA 71203

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Love is in the Air

Say It with Red Roses and More this Valentine’s Day

EBRUARY IS THE MONTH OF LOVE and what better way to express that love than through flowers? Leading up to Valentine’s Day, local floral importer and wholesaler Carlstedt’s sells around 20,000 stems of roses. “Most of those are red,” said owner Alice Givens. “Red is definitely the most popular.” Red roses are often associated with love and romance but red isn’t the only option. Here’s a look at the meaning behind some other color of roses: Pink roses are very versatile and a classic symbol and grace and elegance. This is often given as a token of admiration and appreciation. The shade of pink can determine the meaning as well. A deep or hot pink can convey gratitude and thankfulness while a light pink can mean grace, gentleness and happiness. White roses are often associated with new beginnings like marriage. These are also a great way to send the message of “I’m Thinking of You” as well as express everlasting love. Ivory roses may seem similar to white

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roses but they carry a different meaning. They represent charm, thoughtfulness and gracefulness and often represent richness and perfection. They are good to send to someone to let them know you care, without expressing romantic intentions. Orange roses have a sense of energy and passion. Often representing enthusiasm, they have become more popular in recent years. If you are in need of energy yourself, get a bouquet of these bold beauties to get a burst of energy. Peach roses are a sweet way to convey a message of modesty, genuineness, sincerity and gratitude. These are a great way to say thank you, as well as express sympathy to a loved one or close friend. Lavender roses are very unique and quite stunning. These statement roses symbolize enchantment, wonder and mystery so they are a great fit for sending to a secret crush. Yellow Roses are a great way to send a joyful message. Traditionally, they represent friendship and have a warm and sunny

disposition. Colored like the sun, they convey warmth, delightfulness and affection. They can be sent to say welcome back, good luck and remember me, perfect for a close friend or someone that needs cheering up! No matter what color or style rose you choose to go with, you can find them and more at Carlstedt’s. In addition to roses, they say tulips and carnations are popular as well. Mixed arrangements are on trend as well and often feature a variety of flowers including hydrangeas, Gerbera daisies, alstroemeria and lillies. And flowers don’t have to be just bouquets either. Carlstedt’s says their potted plants, like tulips, azaleas, hyacinths and hydrangeas are available, as well. In addition to the flowers and plants themselves, Carlstedt’s also carries containers, ribbon and oasis - everything you need to get creative with flowers! Come see us in Monroe! 1507 Siddon Street Just off Tower Drive

FaceTite Non-Surgical Facelift Big Results, Little Recovery

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

I HAVE PERFORMED SURGICAL FACIAL rejuvenation procedures for almost 30 years, having trained in Dallas with some of the recognized giants of facelift surgery. However, for the past several years, the trend has been toward less invasive, non-surgical techniques. Patients often say, “I don’t think I’m ready for a full facelift, so what can you do in the office that will give me a reasonably good result?” Well, there are lots of things. Botox, fillers, fat injections, chemical peels and laser treatments are all minimally invasive office based procedures that are proven and effective – especially when used in combination. But the one procedure that is the closest thing to a “non-surgical facelift” is a new and exciting technique called FaceTite, that uses bipolar radiofrequency to melt fat and tighten the skin. Some of the advantages of FaceTite are that it can be done in the office under local anesthesia, does not require incisions, takes about an hour and the discomfort and

downtime are minimal - usually limited to mild swelling for a few days. When combined with limited liposuction, and Morpheus – another radiofrequency skin tightening procedure - the results in the face and neck can be significant and impressive. While there is noticeable improvement once the initial swelling subsides, the result improves over time as skin contraction continues for up to six months. The FaceTite procedure is perfect for younger patients in the 35 to 50 year old range, who are on the early end of the aging spectrum and are bothered by the lower third of the face and the neck. They want a tighter neck with better definition of the jawline but are not ready to have a traditional facelift. However, FaceTite is also beneficial for older patients who don’t want the expense, risk or downtime of a full facelift under general anesthesia, but still want noticeable improvement. As you might expect, the result in these patients is less

dramatic than surgery, but sometimes a more discrete and more economical solution is what patients desire. So, if you are ready for facial rejuvenation but not quite ready for surgery, call Mickel Plastic Surgery at 388-2050 and set up a consultation to see if a Non-Surgical Facelift with FaceTite is right for you! Or you can join us at the office on Thursday, February 13, at 6:00PM for wine and cheese and an educational presentation on FaceTite and other procedures for non-surgical facial rejuvenation. And follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more information on these exciting new options to help you look your best.

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BAYOU ARTISTS

FOR LOCAL ARTISTS LINDA SNIDER-WARD AND ROBERT “BOB” WARD, ART HAS BEEN A BINDING FORCE IN THEIR MARRIAGE FOR 26 YEARS. IT BROUGHT THEM TOGETHER INITIALLY AND HAS CONTINUED TO REINFORCE THEIR BOND. ARTICLE BY APRIL CLARK HONAKER AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK For artists and arts enthusiasts, the power of art to connect people is self-apparent, but research has proven this unique power of art as well. In a joint study called “Soul of the Community” that was conducted by Gallup and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, they surveyed 43,000 people in 26 communities and found that art is a more powerful source of connection than they thought, even more powerful than education or jobs. According to Alberto Ibargüen, president of the Knight Foundation, “Art binds . . . and strengthens a community’s character. Art brings people together physically—at galleries, museums, performance spaces—and culturally, through its capacity to tell a community’s shared story, to inspire reflection, and form connections that transcend differences.” Not only does art have the power to forge connections on a large scale, but also on a small one, even binding people together in love. For local artists Linda Snider-Ward and Robert “Bob” Ward, art has been a binding force in their marriage for 26 years. It brought them together initially and has continued to reinforce their bond. Linda said, “I think it has strengthened our marriage because that’s what we were interested in. That’s what we talked about. That’s what we did.” Bob agreed, adding, “That’s what we lived.” The two were also somewhat established as artists when they met, which Bob believes made things easier. They create individual work, and they weren’t competing with each other. Bob is originally from Peoria, Illinois, and earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts at Illinois Wesleyan University. Afterward, he continued his

education, earning a Master of Arts in painting from the University of Iowa and a Master of Fine Arts in painting from Louisiana Tech University. Along the way, he also gained teaching experience through local organizations and at the university level, which prepared him for a 42-year career as a professor of art at the University of Louisiana in Monroe. Linda was born in Ringgold, Louisiana. Although her family moved every 2-3 years because her dad was in the Air Force, they returned to Ringgold when her dad retired, and she finished her senior year of high school there. Afterward, her gypsy spirit took her back to Missouri, then to California and to Florida before she returned home to be closer to family. Linda received her Master of Fine Arts in painting and drawing from Louisiana Tech University, as well as a Master of Arts in English with a concentration in creative writing from the University of Louisiana in Monroe. “I think being an artist isn’t a choice,” Linda said. “It’s something that you have to do. You have to be able to express yourself. To deny it is probably detrimental.” Both Linda and Bob experienced memorable moments of affirmation early in their artistic careers. For Linda, it was when she exhibited work with Clyde Connell and several other women artists in Shreveport. Clyde gave Linda many words of encouragement for future work. Although the experience of graduate school was painful at times, Linda said she felt compelled to learn more about art. She attributes much of what she now knows about drawing to Charlie Meeds, who was a professor at Louisiana Tech and served as her primary mentor during her graduate studies.

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LOVE IS WHERE THE ART IS In this work, Bob painted him and Linda arm in arm in the same pose used by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera in a portrait of the famous artist couple.

At Left: Plein Air - Etsy Park, CO, by Linda Snyder-Ward Below: Ring of Kerry (24”x30”) acrylic on canvas by Bob Ward

or Bob, winning a prize in a national print-making show during his junior year of college was affirming, but he said becoming an artist was a process. “It happened brick by brick,” he said. “The more I was at it, the more I was doing better things.” In terms of style and inspiration, Bob and Linda are very different. Bob is a colorist whose style is influenced by post-impressionism and abstract expressionism. While his early works were largely figurative, his more recent works have tended to feature what he calls refigured landscapes. “I can do more creative things with a landscape,” he said. Because they lack the same parameters as figures, he said he’s felt freer since making the switch. In terms of process, Bob starts with an idea or an image, which he draws out in pencil on the canvas, but once he starts painting, the original idea changes completely. “It evolves, and some strange force takes over,” he said. Since taking on landscapes as his primary subject, Bob hasn’t struggled to stay inspired. He and Linda live among the landscapes that provide the initial sparks for his paintings. “I’m a city boy,” he said, “but she got me out to the pasture brushing horses.” Living in the country now, Bob said it’s harder to avoid inspiration. Each time he goes outside, he’s practically stepping in it. In contrast, Linda’s inspiration comes mainly from animals. Like her dad, she loves them. “I just think they’re better than people, especially dogs,” she said. “They’re kind, and they forgive us for all our misgivings.” Fish, horses, dogs, cats, and other animals appear in her work, which typically starts with an ink drawing that she allows “to meander across the page.” Linda and Bob both called her work whimsical, but Bob said there’s a subtlety to what she does that he admires. “She does things I don’t do and does them quite well,” Bob said. “She can do whimsical things, and they don’t look sweet or fairytale. They’re adult.”

Linda hopes people will take something away from her art that they didn’t have before, whether that’s a new idea, an insight into themselves, or some other surprise. It makes her happy to see viewers of any age make these kinds of discoveries. “I think you need to try to look with new eyes daily,” she said, “or you’ll miss the storytelling complexity.” But a fresh outlook isn’t just good for art’s viewers. It’s also good for artists themselves. It contributes to growth. Bob said he was accused of changing too much and too often when he was in school, and he had trouble creating a cohesive body of work, but he doesn’t believe artists should be criticized for following inspiration and views change as a form of growth. As Linda pointed out, Picasso created in many different styles of his own creation. She said, “As a growing artist, I think if you get in a rut and do the same thing over and over again so people can recognize your style, I’m not sure that’s great.” Lately, Linda has become interested in realism and has taken up en plein air painting. The challenge of being more traditional keeps her growing and pushes her out of her comfort zone. Realism has certainly been done before, but she said, “If you’re gonna do realism, you still need to do it your way.” Even though Linda and Bob have distinctive styles and approaches and prefer to keep their studio spaces separate, they’ve been known to show work together on occasion and have even created some collaborative pieces. Linda said, “I always felt weird showing with Bob because he’s a colorist, and I’m not.” Bob said she prefers for her work to be hung separately. But over time, she’s begun to add more color, which is probably the most significant way Bob’s work has influenced hers. At the same time, Bob has been known to include motifs from Linda’s work in his, such as her popsicle trees and little red dresses. In one work, he also painted the two of them arm in arm in the same pose WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2020 107

Linda Snyder-Ward

Robert Ward used by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera in a portrait of the famous artist couple. Like Kahlo and Rivera, art is something Bob and Linda share. It has connected them to their friends and to each other. When they were younger, the pair were responsible for selecting the art exhibited in the Monroe Civic Center’s lobby. One of the shows they arranged was an exhibition of Bob’s former students’ work. When they had hung the show, they realized there was a gap on a wall that needed to be filled, so they improvised. The work they hung to fill the gap was by an artist named Hamilton Crosby. The moniker was combination of Bob and Linda’s mothers’ maiden names, and the piece was one they had created together. If the work hadn’t looked so much like Bob’s work, he and Linda might have gotten the piece by the rest of the artists in the exhibition without them noticing, but someone in the group was brave enough to ask about the artist none of them remembered and to point out that his work had yet to truly depart from Bob’s influence. When questioned, Bob and Linda admitted that they were Hamilton Crosby, and they’ve continued to use the name for works they’ve created collaboratively. Whether working together or alone, Linda said being an artist can be hard. But according to Bob it’s not really work because it’s fun. “My vocation is my avocation,” he said. In art, life, and love, there will always be an unpredictable mixture of hard times, good times, and delightful surprises. But according to Linda, consistency is the most important ingredient to being successful in art, life, and love. Bob agreed, adding that it better be a “dogged consistency.” Even though their work has evolved over time and they’ve been influenced by life and each other, their commitment to art and each other hasn’t wavered. For a listing of Linda Snyder-Ward’s work see her website at www. gallerylinda.com 108 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

20 Years of Experience

Maria’s Queen Clean - Professional Cleaning

ORN IN HONDURAS, MARIA VALLEJO MOVED TO Louisiana in 2004. She and her husband originally settled in New Orleans and relocated to Monroe after hurricane Katrina. They have lived in Monroe for 15 years with their two daughters, Ivania and Zoe. Ivania is currently attending ULM and pursuing her Masters in Communication. Maria has always had a passion and a love for cleaning. She saw the opportunity of starting her own business doing just that and never looked back. Maria understands the importance of a clean and tidy environment, whether at home or in the office. She truly enjoys organizing and cleaning and always strives to make every customer completely satisfied. She has been cleaning professionally for around two decades. Her years of experience in the cleaning service have given her a reputation of professionalism, responsibility and honesty. Maria’s highly trained staff knows what tasks are expected of them and are kind, respectable and trustworthy. Not only will Maria’s Queen Clean clean the inside of your house or office but they also offer lawn care services. They have been providing a lawn care service for 10 years now which covers all four seasons of the year. Each home or office is different. This is why they provide a customized clean package for each customer. Here are a few of the services and packages they provide: Simple Cleaning Package: • Floors (sweep and mop) • Bathroom clean (sink, toilet, shower, bathtub, and mirrors) • Kitchen clean and microwave • Dust • Carpet clean (vacuum) Deep Cleaning Package: • Oven inside • Refrigerator inside • Organize clothes, pantries, and kitchen • Detailed dusting • Special event cleaning • Move-in/out cleaning • Windows/ out cleaning • Blinds in/out • Fans • Chandeliers Lawn care: • Recollecting leaves • Weed pulling • Edge trimming • Walkways • Leave blowing • Mowing • Make a flower bed • Pine straw service Maria believes in using the correct products for each client so that they can get the best experience from Maria's Queen Clean. For a free estimate please call (318) 801-2335 and schedule an appointment today. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2020 109

Night of Champions

ULM Athletics Department Hosts Fundraising Event for ULM Student-Athlete Scholarships

LEASE MARK YOUR CALENDARS for ULM Athletics’ signature fund-raising event, “Night of Champions,” scheduled for Friday, February 28th at 6:30 p.m. at FantEwing Coliseum. Proceeds from the silent and live auctions go toward ULM studentathlete scholarships. ULM Athletics spends $5.5 million annually in funding scholarships while providing educational opportunities for nearly 400 student-athletes, who compete in 17 different sports at the NCAA Division I level. “This is our marquee fund-raising event of the year,” ULM Athletics Director Scott McDonald said. “The dollars raised help provide educational opportunities for the student-athletes who represent ULM on the field and in the arena of competition.” “Our Athletics Department staff is fully committed to enhancing the student-athlete experience at ULM, and thanks to your financial support, our student-athletes will continue to achieve great things in the classroom and in our community while being provided with the

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opportunity to pursue championships in their respective sports.” “This event has been wildly succesful in the past, and we believe it can be elevated to another level. There will be unique live and silent auction items. So, we invite you to attend and invest in our student-athletes because you can be a difference-maker.” “A lot of effort has gone into revamping ‘Night of Champions,’ and I believe this year’s event truly offers something for everyone,” ULM Assistant Athletics Director for Fundraising and Development Lee Denny said. “We’ll gather at Fant-Ewing Coliseum to support and celebrate our student-athletes in their pursuit of excellence.” “With your financial support, we can fulfill our commitment to all student-athletes in their quest for a college education, academic excellence, athletic success, career preparation, community involvement and personal development. Together we can ensure that when our student-athletes graduate from ULM,

they are prepared to successfully meet the challenges of life.” “Athletic grants-in-aid are one of the largest items in the Athletics Department operating budget, accounting for nearly 40 percent of the total,” Denny continued. “So, every gift matters. Your generosity goes well beyond their student-athlete experience at ULM and remains a constant in their lives.” The program includes live and silent auctions. Guests will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Entertainment will be provided by The Molly Ringwalds. The band will take our guests on a musical journey filled with hits that transcended the 1980s and defined a generation. Tables of eight for “Night of Champions” are available for $800 while individual tickets are priced at $60. Tickets are on sale in the Athletics Department offices in Malone Stadium or by calling Lee Denny (372-2377) or Nancy Davis (342-5360) in the ULM Athletic Foundation.

Oral Surgery Associates Congratulates Dr. Willis on Retirement

RAL SURGERY ASSOCIATES (OSA) is the only board certified, premier oral surgery practice in Northeast Louisiana. Dr. Eric Geist and Dr. Richard Willis started the practice with Dr. Monte Tindall in 1995. Shortly before Dr. Willis expressed his desire to retire in December of 2019, Dr. Matthew Fowlkes and Dr. Nick Gregory joined OSA. Covering the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery, the team serves the residents of this area and shares their knowledge at our local university and other major health science centers. Dr. Willis taught local anesthesia at ULM for years, and now Dr. Fowlkes has taken over the course. Dr. Geist taught for 20 years at ULM, and Dr. Gregory now teaches head and neck anatomy. As oral and maxillofacial surgeons, the doctors are expertly trained in treating conditions, defects and injuries of the face, mouth, teeth and jaws. Their education requires, at minimum, four to six additional years of hospital-based residency training beyond dental school. OSA’s focus is to

maintain the highest quality of oral surgery care with compassion and respect for every patient. After 40 years of practice, Dr. Willis announced his retirement effective January 1st, and OSA would like to congratulate him on his new adventure and thank him for his dedication to the practice and the excellent care of his patients. Dr. Willis admits the decision to retire was a tough one, as the relationships he built solving problems and helping people gave his work a special purpose. It was uplifting to see how many people didn’t want him to leave once he announced his retirement. After serving on the State Board of Dentistry for one term, Dr. Willis will be staying on for a second term as president of the Board, keeping him involved in the world of Dentistry. Dr. Geist insists Dr. Willis was a phenomenal partner, often covering for him due to his travel commitments related to his work with the American Association and American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. He is proud of the practice they built together and confident in its future with the

additions of Dr. Fowlkes and Dr. Gregory. Dr. Willis is a skillful surgeon and a man of “high integrity and moral character,” says Geist. His commitment to high-quality dental surgery and the OSA team will be sorely missed. Dr. Willis is excited to start this new life chapter with his wife Teresa, a retired nurse anesthetist who also worked at OSA. His daughter Kelly is a pathologist with a practice in New Orleans, and his son Bo is a property manager in Houston. Dr. Willis is proud to have lived and worked in Northeast Louisiana and believes in the future of OSA. The dedication and knowledge of the doctors in the practice is unparalleled in this area, and patients can still expect the same quality care and exceptional service at OSA. All Dr. Willis’ patient records will be maintained at the Oral Surgery Associates’ office and Dr.’s Giest, Fowlkes and Gregory will continue to provide the highest quality of oral surgery care to his patients and the residents of Northeast Louisiana.

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Let Your Colors Run!

Kappa Delta - Delta Zeta Color Me KD 5k

HE DELTA ZETA CHAPTER OF Kappa Delta Sorority was founded at the University of Louisiana Monroe in 1967, and since then has upheld the standards of all things honorable, beautiful, and highest. Kappa Delta Sorority started supporting Prevent Child Abuse America in 1981 and have been donating to their organization to help children across the nation. Kappa Delta is committed to building confidence and inspiring action in not only its members but others as well. This sisterhood believes that instilling confidence in children is essential to a great childhood. Child abuse and neglect destroys the confidence of children. This is why Kappa Delta is driven to help children everywhere and help them gain the confidence they need and deserve. By working with Prevent Child Abuse America, Kappa Delta is able

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to ensure that children across the nation are getting the help they need to have a bright, colorful childhood. There’s nothing that destroys a child’s confidence like abuse, and Kappa Delta wants to do the most it can to prevent this. Kappa Delta encourages its members to inspire action by getting involved in the community. We do this by hosting several events not only in our community but also on ULM’s campus. During Shamrock Week, we help raise funds and awareness for Prevent Child Abuse America on campus by hosting bake sales and selling pinwheels, the national symbol for PCAA. Within the community, we also host a give back night at different restaurants as well as helping out at the Boys and Girls Club in Bawcomville. All the proceeds from the annual Color Me KD 5k will go to PCAA and the

Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home. ULM’s chapter of Kappa Delta began giving back and working hands on with the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home in 2016. Since then, Kappa Delta has helped host a family fun day, traveled to King’s Camp, and held many other events for the kids. We believe that it is important to help the community and see the change locally as well as nationally. Kappa Delta invites you to come join the fight against child abuse by sponsoring, donating, or running in our annual Color me KD 5k. You can help us make a difference! If you or anyone you know would be interesting in sponsoring, donating, or running please contact Michiala Hemphill at kddzshamrock2020@gmail.com. Come join us and let your colors run!

Anti-Aging Treatments Turn Back the Clock BY DR. LESLIE COFFMAN

SK YOURSELF – “AM I COMPLETELY happy with how I look? Do I appear old, or fat? Do I have wrinkles or age spots on my face, chest, or hands?” The good news is there are now many new and advanced therapies to improve these conditions. Many can be done in the office and are either non or minimally invasive, comfortable, and with minimal down time. There are many aspects to health and wellbeing. Your appearance influences how you feel and your self-esteem. We are not newcomers, as our clinic has been providing cosmetic procedures for decades. We have invested in the latest and best technology and are the only clinic in the area equipped to offer such advanced services. We also realize price is a factor and want everyone who can benefit from a procedure to be able to afford it. Knowing this, we strive to offer affordable prices that are usually significantly lower than in neighboring large

cities. And financing is an option. Below are a few procedures we offer that might be of interest to you. VASER LIPOSUCTION The Vaser is a unique liposuction system that we’ve used for over 15 years. Through tiny incisions less than ¼-inch, fat is liquified using high energy ultrasound, then removed by suction through the same incision. The procedure is performed in the office under local infiltration anesthesia and takes about an hour. Vaser is much more gentle than conventional liposuction, which typically required general anesthesia in a hospital or surgery center. As such, the Vaser procedure is much more affordable. There are several non-invasive procedures being promoted within the medical and aesthetic communities claiming to remove fat through various means. In my experience, these are likely to give disappointing results. With Vaser, you actually see the removed fat so

there is no reliance on the hope of future results, which may or may not happen. Vaser is most commonly used for abdomen, thighs, arms, and double chin. It is for spot reduction of fat and should not be confused with a weight reduction method. HALO FRACTIONAL DUAL LASER RESURFACING OF THE FACE Healthy glowing skin is necessary for ultimate beauty. Again, we are the only area clinic offering the Sciton Halo procedure, a unique high tech-laser using a dual beam technique to address a spectrum of skin problems. The results of Halo can be dramatic, possibly taking years off your appearance with tightened skin, reduction in wrinkles, and removal of age spots. Our Halo patients have been universally thrilled with their results. DIVA – DUAL LASER VAGINAL RESURFACING Because many women suffer from common vaginal and urinary issues, we searched for the best laser technology available – the dual-laser device called Diva - for vaginal resurfacing. The Diva also offers another high-tech modality as an alternative to surgery for GSM (Genitourinary Syndrome Menopause), a very common condition in women. It can address dryness, burning, pain with intercourse, and reduce redundant tissue. Diva is an alternative, as well, for women who have had breast cancer and cannot take hormones.

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MU TAU LEADERSHIP IN SERVICE

A R TICL E BY VA N EL IS R I V ER A A N D PHOTO GR A PH Y BY BR A D A REN DER

L A S T D ECE M B E R , fifteen African-American medical

students from Tulane University traveled to Whitney Plantation in St. John the Baptist Parish, Louisiana, posed in their short white coats on the steps of former slave quarters, and then tweeted the photo. In a matter of days, the post went viral, racking up about 70,000 views and close to 17,000 retweets. The message is clear—we’ve come a long way. Yet, there was a need for a reminder. America’s rotten underbelly of racial oppression and discrimination has had dire social and psychological ramifications, which we still navigate. It’s precisely this history that makes the success of Black professionals a feat beyond the pursuit of happiness and more a long-delayed manifestation of the fundamental rights promised by the Declaration of Independence that once were denied to their ancestors. Modern Black professionals are their forebears’ wildest dreams. From teachers to lawyers, artists to politicians, within the AfricanAmerican community, the success of one is the success of all. Following this tradition of united community involvement through fellowship is the Monroe chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, a group of African-American men that personify resilience while promoting brotherhood. Founded on the campus of historically black college Howard University in Washington, DC, on November 17, 1911, Omega Psi Phi is one of the first predominantly African-American international fraternal organizations. The name of the fraternity derived from the initials of the Greek phrase, loosely meaning, “friendship is essential to the soul,” a guiding principle of their service, also selected as their motto. Though Howard University officials did not initially recognize the fraternity as a national organization until 1914, the brotherhood still operated without official sanctions, seeking to build a strong and capable force of men dedicated to the cardinal principles of manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift. The charter for the Mu Tau Chapter of Omega Psi Phi in Monroe was issued in November of 1959 by Dr. Madison J. Foster, a local physician, who began the process by banding together with members of Grambling State University and Southern University chapters. Last year, Mu Tau celebrated sixty years of community involvement and mentorship, as well as being the top graduate chapter for community service and outreach in a four-state region. Historically, most black fraternities were organized as a buffer against discriminatory practices, finding strength

and support through shared experiences and similar goals. Presently, in the case of the Omegas, strengthened bonds of friendship are the overriding principle of their brotherhood, particularly the graduate chapter, whose ambitions are sharpened by life experience, ripened perspective, and an unyielding call of duty. “My story is not unique,” says Eugene Burns, current Mu Tau member who moved to Monroe from Atlanta, Georgia, five years ago. On the phone, he takes a beat and quickly auto-corrects. “It’s sort of special.” Unlike most fraternity members who join during their early collegiate years, Burns joined later in life. With an already established career, family, and identity, a lot of the reasons most young people join Omega didn’t resonate with him. Having friends in the fraternity at the time, Burns’ recruitment into Mu Tau was a natural fit, yet an unexpected one. His move to Monroe as a result of a CenturyLink transfer was “very reluctant.” Still, his attitude about the region and its people swiftly changed when some of his colleagues (who were also members of Mu Tau) impressed him with their professional and academic profiles. Given both the city’s and chapter’s size, the accomplishments by members of Mu Tau rival, if not exceed, those of other megacities and chapters. “Throughout my life, I’ve been surrounded by successful people. And coming to Monroe, I thought that I would stand out in the crowd.” He was pleasantly surprised that this was not the case. “On the undergraduate level is where you might have a lot of the more outspoken members, but on the graduate level, we don’t try to be boisterous. We’re kind of like your quiet, strong types. We get a lot of things done,” notes Burns. When Mayor Jamie Mayo “needs things done,” he calls Mu Tau. “I think that’s generally the space that we occupy in North Louisiana,” says Burns. It’s essential to highlight the need for service wherever it presents itself, and the members of Mu Tau pride themselves in “rolling up their sleeves, getting the job done, then leaving.” Every month, Mu Tau has at least one or two community-oriented activities at the local or national level. One of their special events is an annual father-daughter dance. Held at the University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM), the elegant occasion allows fathers to either reconnect with their daughters or establish a stronger relationship. “We understand the importance of having a strong male role model,” says Burns, who has two daughters of his own. The mother-son dance follows suite,

PRESENTLY, IN THE CASE OF THE OMEGAS, STRENGTHENED BONDS OF FRIENDSHIP ARE THE OVERRIDING PRINCIPLE OF THEIR BROTHERHOOD, PARTICULARLY THE GRADUATE CHAPTER, WHOSE AMBITIONS ARE SHARPENED BY LIFE EXPERIENCE, RIPENED PERSPECTIVE, AND AN UNYIELDING CALL OF DUTY.

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aimed to teach proper male etiquette to young boys. The community to-do list also includes awarding five $1000 college scholarship awards every year to deserving high school graduates from local schools, providing community clean-up, adopting a local school (Madison James Foster, Robinson Elementary, and Ouachita Junior High), and also raising money for the Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo kids splash pad. Another strong focus of the organization is men’s health and wellness. By partnering with other organizations like the Northeast Louisiana Cancer Center and Tulane Prostate Cancer Research Center, they are able to host information-driven events like the Omega Psi Phi 5K Prostate Cancer Awareness/Celebration, also held on the ULM campus. This year’s event schedule is quickly filling with functions geared toward investing in the success of younger generations. Their High School Talent Hunt in February is a national fraternity project, which allows participants to compete in the form of music, interpretive movement, speech, or visual art. Talent Hunt contestants that advance at the local level have the opportunity to perform at the fraternity’s National Conclave in Tampa, Florida. Events such as this provide assistance and resources to gifted youth who, otherwise, would be overlooked. The ideals of service and friendship correlate with Omega Psi as a state of mind and awareness where individuals can be in tune with the needs of others. “Friendship is where you are okay with sharing your vulnerabilities with someone and knowing that that person is going to take whatever shortcomings you have and help you through,” explains Burns. Overall, friendship sustains

community, particularly the African-American community, one fraught with a horrifying past. That’s where Mu Tau wants to step in. “Young Black men, in general, have to educate themselves on the larger goals in life, especially amongst our youth,” says Burns. The members of Mu Tau want to help young men in their community develop their minds both academically and socially. Even so, Omega Psi values the importance of casting a wider community net. “Open-mindedness is key to acknowledging the values others can bring to the table,” says Burns, arguing that partisan inclination “blocks you from the ability to understand fellowship and friendship,” adding, “friendship is colorblind.” Unity in Greek life means raising awareness of significant and versatile philanthropies, as well as bridging racial and cultural divides that ultimately promote a shared consciousness and empathy. For this reason, Omega Psi reaches out to predominantly white fraternities, inviting them to events held on the ULM campus. A group of like-minded change-makers, like the Omegas, are not trying to reinvent the wheel. “The wheel has already been created. I’m just interjecting into the wheel,” Burns says. Distinguished members such as Dr. Charles Drew (African-American physician who developed ways to process and store blood plasma in “blood banks”) and Dr. Carter G. Woodson (second African American to receive a doctorate from Harvard) often are credited with establishing the fraternity’s practice of excellence. Contemporary members have also etched their legacy into the cultural milieu. Notables include Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, Tom Joyner, Steve Harvey, Ed “Too Tall” Jones, and Steve McNair.

OMEGA PSI VALUES THE IMPORTANCE OF CASTING A WIDER COMMUNITY NET. OPEN-MINDEDNESS IS THE KEY TO ACKNOWLEDGING THE VALUES OTHERS CAN BRING TO THE TABLE. PARTISAN INCLINATION BLOCKS YOU FROM THE ABILITY TO UNDERSTAND FELLOWSHIP AND FRIENDSHIP.

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n a national basis, many members of Omega Psi end up entering the professions of education, sports, and military careers. Consequently, paying homage to the professional interests of their founders (Howard University students Edgar Amos Love, Frank Charles Coleman, and Oscar James Cooper). Tribute has also taken the form of garb, as a part of the fraternity’s informal uniform is gold military boots, an ode to two of the founders who, upon graduating from college, became officers in the military. The Mu Tau Chapter of Omega Psi Phi has about forty active members, and about eighty percent of them have a master’s or doctoral degree. Membership is a lifelong commitment that intensifies the bond between members and their community. For Mu Tau, that takes the form of 94-year-old William D. Cyrus, World War II veteran, Grambling State Alumni, a retired educator, and their last living charter member. “The number of men, both past and present, who hold or have held key leadership and professional designations here in Monroe are worthy of recognition,” beams Burns. Regardless of fanfare or recognition, the members of Mu Tau serve their community with love, and, in doing so, build a legacy cemented in fostering leadership through service. Learn more about Mu Tau’s service, scholarships, and health initiatives by following them on Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube. You can also visit their website to learn more http://www.monroeques.com.

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Finding More Love in Your Life Positive Steps Offers Support BY J. PRESTON PARRY, MD, MPH

ALENTINE’S DAY FOCUSES US ON relationships, where we celebrate what is going well and imagine what could be better. For some, “more love” involves bringing a baby in to the relationship. There’s a myth that “a baby will fix everything” when in fact having that tiny miracle sometimes exposes existing cracks in relationships. How do you strengthen your relationship before becoming a parent? Working together for the sake of that child creates a unique common ground that only the two of you share. Before heading on this path, you want to be well as a couple. Speaking openly about common topics helps: 1. You may feel differently about becoming parents: Sometimes one person has baby fever and the other doesn’t. It is actually normal for people to be at different points. (My wife thought babies were noisy and smelled bad and was more of a dog person; however, once she had our boys, they became her world.) Not only

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will you potentially be at different points now, but you also may be in the future—I loved my sons when born, but they were so much more fun as they grew, learned to talk, and more. Who you are will evolve as a parent. 2. You may have different life goals: Some think they just want to get through the day, which can be hard enough, and they don’t want to have anything change that balance. Having a child creates a purpose, and the balance will be figured out later. Figuring out the direction you’re headed together is important. 3. Sex may become different: Beyond having a baby in the house (and especially if co-sleeping, though there are risks with this), if trying to conceive and it takes a while, sometimes sex can lose intimacy and become a chore. Even if not wanting advanced therapy, talk to a specialist if this happens as there are low cost, low tech ways of accelerating the process. “Don’t destroy the relationship for the sake of expanding it.”

4. Differences in whether to talk about fertility: For some, reproductive issues are very private. Others will talk with all their friends about next steps. Explore common ground on the balance between not embarrassing anyone, but also not going at it alone where someone suffers in silence. 5. Finding fault: Infertility is a medical condition with social implications, just like cancer, lupus, diabetes, and more. Just as you shouldn’t blame a spouse for cancer, there should be support and love regardless of who is more or less fertile. If there is guilt and blame, consider a psychologist, as you want to be well regardless of whether you are successful. A successful path to parenthood often involves the same steps for any healthy relationship with communication, compromise, and caring. If the Positive Steps Fertility team can make your journey easier in any way, please let us know. We hope 2020 brings all the love through family that you dream of!

A Shocking Transformation

skin. A total of six to eight treatments, twice a week for three to four weeks is recommended. Up to three areas of the body can be treated at a time. Each session lasts about 15 minutes per area. Shockwave Therapy also has a prolonged effect. The results are stored at least one year, which means no expensive Combination Treatments for Cellulite and Skin Tightening maintenance treatments. As photos show on our website, www. professionallaser.com, the BY JUDY WAGONER results only get better over the next three to 12 months. ELLULITE IS A FRUSTRATING dimpling and that orange peel appearance. Our new Clareon Infrared Skin Tightening and discouraging problem for millions   At Professional Laser Center, we are Laser is showing awesome results as a stand of women. It targets young and old, committed to obtaining the most advanced alone procedure, or as an adjunct to Shockwave. large and thin. It’s typically most pronounced technologies in treating fat and cellulite. It delivers a beam of high-intensity, infrared around the hips, buttocks, arms or legs of Acoustic Wave Therapy and Infrared Laser light that deeply penetrates the skin tissue. women. We have all tried various creams, Therapy were added to our list of services The light heats the water content of your potions, exercise regimens, and fad diets which over the last year. Acoustic Wave Therapy skin which stimulates collagen, causing the simply don’t work. That’s because cellulite is a painless, non-invasive treatment that skin to contract and tighten. This treatment is not a fat problem — it’s a skin problem. quickly improves the appearance of cellulite utilizes patented, cutting-edge, Krypton Light Cellulite is made up of fat cells that can’t be and recontours the body. Infrared Laser Technology to safely target skin imperfections burned as fuel, so dieting and exercise won’t Therapy drastically tightens loose skin and and tighten the skin. It can be performed alone eliminate them. Once we get it, we feel cursed is a great adjunct to Acoustic Wave Therapy or immediately after Shockwave, or Dermapen because it simply gets worse over time. Many because many women have cellulite and loose Microneedling, to heighten results. It can be influential factors, such as genetics, poor skin around their arms, abdomen, batwings, used on loose, wrinkled skin anywhere on the diet, lack of exercise, smoking, imbalanced and knees. Both can be used as stand alone face or body. hormone levels, and weight, cause fat deposits procedure or combined to produce a profound Start your treatments now so you can below the skin to be strangulated by fibrous, effect on the body. be ready for spring break or summer beach connective tissue, called “septae,” thereby Acoustic Wave Therapy uses ultrasound activities. For a free consultation or to making circulation difficult and trapping waves to disrupt the scar tissue and connective schedule an appointment, call 318-361-9066. fluids. Eventually, this connective tissue tissue, improving circulation and initiating For a list of all our services, visit our website scleroses (hardens) leading to the dreaded collagen production for thicker, more elastic www.professionallaser.com.

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Celebrating 23 Years of Culinary Success Waterfront Grill in Monroe

OR 23 YEARS, THIS LOCAL restaurant is one of Monroe Louisiana’s favorite places to dine. Waterfront Grill opened its doors February 14, 1997 and has been providing this community with some of the best grilled plates in the area ever since. With a casual setting on Bayou DeSiard and a menu featuring the highest quality steaks and assortment of savory seafood dishes, it’s not hard to see why Waterfront Grill has lasted so long. The Weems family has mastered the grill and has created a special niche that customers, whether they be a local resident or passerby, find delectable. This Valentine’s Day be sure to make your reservations for you and your sweetheart and come have dinner at this community based restaurant as they celebrate their 23rd year of business. There will be specials for the night and, of course, some of the best grilled food around. Set the mood with their new wine

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flight featuring three choices of reds and three choices of whites. Dine on the bayou for the perfect Valentine’s Day evening. They have perfected their menu with items that can appeal to any clientele, all without the use of a single fryer. One of the most popular dishes on the menu is the Catfish DeSiard. This dish consists of baked catfish topped with seasoned bread crumbs, green onions, Parmesan cheese, mushrooms and shrimp and is truly a mouth-watering combination of flavor and texture. You can never go wrong ordering oysters, steak or pork chops from the menu at Waterfront. Their frenched, center cut pork chops are made from a premium selection of meat and are chargrilled flawlessly harnessing the flavors of the seasoning and the natural juices. Pork chops may not be your first choice when dining out but saying that you would be missing out if you didn’t

try these would be an understatement. Waterfront Grill has evolved over the years, and will continue to evolve, to ensure that this family restaurant remains a local favorite. Providing gluten free options, Waterfront strives to accommodate to each and every one of their customers. Every aspect of the restaurant is infused with a sense of community and hometown pride. The walls are adored with ULM memorabilia, large windows on the back wall provide views of the patio overlooking the bayou, and the cuisine itself is a statement of Louisiana. You can find them next to ULM’s campus at 5201 DeSiard St., open 11AM-9PM MondaySaturday or simply call-in your order at 318.345.0064 Waterfront Grill would like to say thank you to our community for their support over the years!

St. Frederick High School Be A Warrior

RE YOU SEEKING AN EDUCATION for your children that will prepare them for tomorrow’s world? Do you want them to be equipped with the skills necessary to succeed in ever changing society? Do you want for your children to exhibit compassion in their daily lives? After much reflection, investigation, and analysis, St. Frederick High School has committed to becoming an International Baccalaureate (IB) school beginning in Fall of 2020. This would make SFHS the only IB school in north Louisiana and the only Catholic IB school in the state. The prestigious IB curriculum, recognized throughout the world, inspires all students to achieve their God-given potential. IB prepares students for the evolving and increasingly global society as they develop physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically. Some have even called the IB program a passport to the future. IB is an immersive learning approach using

integrated curriculum which reinforces the subject matter using a holistic, hands-on approach to learning inviting critical inquiry. The student is at the center of learning. The approach teaches students to be independent thinkers yet be active, contributors for a team. The goal is to provide a rigorous, competitive, and comprehensive environment with opportunities for applied learning and exploration. Research has shown that students who have participated in an IB curriculum possess a greater sense of confidence and pride as they enter their respective postsecondary institution which ultimately leads to success. IB is inclusive--it is designed for students of all interests and academic abilities to flourish. Unique to the program is the creativity, action, and service (CAS) component which is comprised of activities in the arts, creative thinking, physical activity, and community service. These components

align with the current mission of SFHS which requires each student to participate in meaningful community service. The IB program fosters the qualities of compassion, initiative, adventure and. a sense of service to others within a multicultural environment. Research shows that skills and knowledge gained through the IB program are excellent predictors of university, employment, and lifelong success. If you are interested in an education in a safe, Christian environment that inspires students to be intellectually curious, as well as equipping them with skills for the future—we invite you to contact us for more information or to schedule a shadow day. We are excited about the bright future for St. Frederick High School and would love for your child to be a part of the Warrior Experience. In a World Where You Can Be Anything... BE A WARRIOR.

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ORGANIZE YOUR CLOSET AND CHANGE YOUR LIFE by ERIN SHARPLIN LOVE | erinlove@panachebyerin.com

ecently on my social media accounts, I posed the question “What area of your home causes the most stress when you think about organizing it?” The overwhelming answer was “MY CLOSET!” Most women tend to have a hard time knowing where to begin when it comes to organizing a closet. So, let me help you visualize what an organized closet looks and feels like – close your eyes and imagine entering your closet and feeling an immediate sense of calm and happiness. You start your day knowing exactly what you are going to wear and where every piece of the outfit is located. You get dressed with ease and minimum stress. You walk out of your closet smiling. Now take a deep breath and imagine yourself coming home from a long day at work and re-entering your closet. Ideally, the stress of the day should wash away immediately because you are in a serene, organized space that relaxes you. Every item in your closet is organized, and you know that you will look your best in every piece of clothing, jewelry, and footwear that resides there. Now open your eyes. How do you feel? Like this is too good to be true? Oh, but it’s not! I create these spaces for clients on a regular basis, and I am about to let you in on all of my secrets. I hope it changes your life! Change all of your hangers to matching hangers. If you incorporate only one of my suggestions into your own closet, this should be the one! Changing your hangers so

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they all match makes an immediate difference in the look and feel of your closet, and you will be able store more clothes because mismatched hangers will no longer be fighting for space. When I organize a closet, I prefer to use heavyduty, clear, plastic hangers like the ones you typically find in a boutique or the thin, felted hangers that are the most popular now. They do take up less space than the clear plastic, but they also cost a bit more because high-quality felt hangers are a must. Otherwise you will find them breaking easily. Organize like-with-like and in color order. In other words, all tops should hang together, in color order, and all bottoms should hang together in color order. I prefer to organize from lightest to darkest, and in ROYGBIV order, but you may enjoy pairing black and white together, for instance. I suggest that you do what you find most attractive and efficient for your current wardrobe. Also, in this same vein, I suggest separating any matching pieces (suits, etc.) as it helps you consider them when mixing and matching. It is a rare occasion that I suggest wearing an outfit that is matched directly from the store. Furthermore, remember to launder the matching pieces together so they fade at the same pace. Organize your shoes by alternating the direction of each one. I prefer the right shoe toe forward and the left shoe heel forward, but again, go with your own preference. This method typically allows for

one more pair of shoes on each shelf, plus you will be able to tell the heel height of each shoe in one glance. Create some sort of division in your closet. For instance, I love using sweater organizers to divide shirts and pants. This division helps break up the monotony of full lines of clothing, and it helps create vertical organization space. The sweater organizers can be used to house sweaters, of course, but I also put jeans, shoes, purses, etc. in them. If you have double hang rods in your closet, the three-shelf hanging organizers would be perfect. Add a double-hang rod if needed. If you have one long-hang bar in your closet, then this tip is for you. The addition of a double-hang rod will increase your hanging space, and it is perfect for your tops. I’ve even hung purses and boots on them before, so use your imagination and make the most of the space you have. You can purchase the double-hang rods from Target, Bed, Bath and Beyond, or, if you prefer shopping from home, Amazon. Use organizing bins, but label them. As a professional organizer, I love bins and baskets, but have found that once an item goes into a bin or basket, it has a tendency to be forgotten. An efficient way to keep up with stored belongings is to label each bin CLEARLY and efficiently. You can make the label fit your color scheme and preferences by creating finding a design on-line and then

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printing it. Baskets are great for housing out-of-season items, but they can also hold everyday pieces such as hats, socks, camisoles, etc. Help your boots and purses maintain their shape by stuffing them. There are organizing products that have been made specifically for this, but if you want to save money by using something you probably already have in your house, I have a few ideas. I have used everything from newspaper, magazines, and tissue paper to water and wine bottles to stuff boots. For purses, I get a gallon zip-lock bag and stuff it with tissue paper or newspaper and then place it inside each purse. Using a zip-lock makes the stuffing easy to remove when you want to use the bag. Use the “ hanger trick” to help you decide what to keep and what to toss. The “hanger trick” is a tool I use to help my clients realize when it is time to let a clothing item go. To use this trick, turn all of your hangers backwards on your rods. When you want to wear something, return the hanger to its original position. After one full month, notice which hangers are still turned around backwards. Those are the items that should get special attention now. Perhaps you will make sure to use them in an upcoming outfit, or you will decide to get rid of them. Either way, the hanger trick pays off. Use the two-year rule instead of the one-year rule. Some professional organizers suggest that you should get rid of anything that you haven’t worn in one year, but I think that two years is a better estimate of when an item has passed its prime. Figure out how to make use of all available vertical space. The amount of vertical space that is unused in most closets is astounding. You can see so many opportunities to go vertical if you take a little time to study the space. One solution might be to use those sweater organizers previously mentioned or you can add extenders to all available shelf space. Consider the picture provided below– notice the shoe shelves that are both on the top shelf and in the floor space. These shelves can be used for much more than shoes if you already have enough shoe space (but what girl does?) Treat your closet as you would any other room in your home and personalize it. This is one of my number one tips because it makes such a huge difference in the look and feel of a closet. Add pictures, a rug, a plant, or anything else that you like. Create a boutique-like atmosphere by incorporating mannequins and busts. Mannequins and busts are perfect for displaying jewelry and scarves. Take inspiration from your favorite boutique and then create your own little nook. They don’t have to be used inside the closet, by the way. Make a space just outside of the closet if you don’t have enough room inside. Ladies, it’s time to create the closet you’ve always dreamed of! You can do it. OR if you feel overwhelmed, email me at erinlove@ panachebyerin.com.

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Bayou Bowl Features Improvements and Additions Local Bowling Alley Offers a Family Fun Experience

F YOU HAVEN’T BEEN TO BAYOU Bowl in the last few months, you are missing out! The locally owned and operated bowling alley has made some vast improvements making the customer experience even better. A new floor has been installed throughout the building, giving it an updated feel. In the game room area, not only have new arcade games been added, but bumper cars as well. The bathrooms have been renovated and the exterior has been repainted with new signage. And Bayou Bowl isn’t done yet! In the near future, they will have a new kitchen and bar area with lounge seating and an outside patio. Owner Lauren Cusimano is excited to see the reactions of customers that have been coming in for years. “They are happy to see new improvements and continue to come here and make memories.” The new updates combined with the fun of bowling make Bayou Bowl the perfect place to host a birthday party, corporate event or special celebration! Chloe

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Ballard oversees the birthday parties and ensures that everything goes smoothly. “We like to say that you just need to supply the cake and guests for the birthday parties, and we do everything else,” said Chloe. When you have a party at Bayou Bowl, you have a dedicated party host that helps with set up, decoration, cleanup and more. The birthday kid even goes home with a t-shirt and a bowling pin that the party guests can sign. Party packages vary depending on the number of guests and length of party. You can even have a blacklight party with florescent cups, balloons, glow sticks and more. The fun isn’t limited to just kids either. Bayou Bowl hosts corporate and custom parties, perfect for team building, employee appreciation, anniversaries and holiday parties. “We pride ourselves on being able to create a custom party and a memorable experience,” said Jackie Campbell, who oversees custom and corporate parties. “We

can work on a budget, too. We can serve everything from pizza to pork loin, and create any type of party you want.” Bayou Bowl can customize the decorations to match a company’s colors and even display a company logo on the screens above the bowling lanes, adding to the custom feel. If you are looking to throwing a few strikes without having a party, you can do that too. Bayou Bowl offers Pizzas, Pins and Pop on Monday through Thursday. For $54.99, up to 6 people can bowl for two hours, plus enjoy pizza and a pitcher of soft drinks. On Fridays, you can take advantage of their “All You Can Bowl” special for just $14 per person. On Saturdays, the alley transforms with Bayou Luminescence from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., with blacklight bowling and music for $15 per person with a minimum of 4 bowlers per lane. Lauren and her team invite you to visit Bayou Bowl and continue to make memories and enjoy wholesome family fun!

Pamper Yourself and Your Sweetie Spa Bella Offers Couples Massage and More

PA BELLA IS LOCATED IN THE heart of downtown West Monroe and is the place to find all your Valentine’s Day goodies. Whether you are looking to pamper yourself or your sweetheart, they have something for everyone! You can even book a couple’s massage, the perfect way to spend some time together. They offer gift certificates for all of their services they offer, allowing you to give the gift of relaxation and pampering. They offer a variety of massage options including swedish, therapeutic, deep tissue, medical and soothing stone. You can even relax in their infrared sauna prior to your massage, allowing your muscles to relax and get the most of your treatment. They also specialize in facials, including the Opti Resurfacing Treatment is a luxurious treatment that infuses oxygen, peptides and minerals that leave your skin lightened and brightened and is just one of the options they offer.

Spa Bella offers all things when it comes to nails from manicures, pedicures, acrylic nails, gel polish and more. Mitzi Waterman is a licensed nail technician that loves providing quality nail services in a private setting with a safe and tranquil environment, where her clients feel comfortable and relaxed. Not only does Mitzi offer a relaxing environment, she also has some of the newest nail technology like their 100% soak-off soft gel extension system. These are a healthier version of acrylic nails that won’t damage your nails and they feel more natural. Mitzi can also create nail art, adding the perfect amount of romance for that Valentine’s Day date night. Spa Bella carries the entire line of products from Bathhouse Soapery, a handmade soap, bath and beauty company that makes fresh cosmetics in Hot Springs, Arkansas. They offer soaps, soaking salts, bath bombs and scrubs, body butter, deodorant, shaving accessories,

room and linen sprays and more. They offer his and her Valentine’s Day Luxe boxes created especially for your sweetie. For her, you can combine the Wine Bubbling Bath Bomb, Chocolate Caramel Drizzle Lip Balm, Whipped Soap and the XOXO Body Butter. For him, there’s the Honky Tonk Man Soap Slice, Shaving Brush, Moonshine Shave Soap and Whipped Soap. Spa Bella can hand select and create a gift box for the special gal or guy in your life! Stop by Spa Bella to get a massage, facial, manicure or pedicure for yourself or your sweetie this Valentine’s Day. You will definitely fall in love!

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B AYOUKID Z

Living Through Grief and Overcoming Addiction Before It’s Too Late article by Cindy G. Foust

t’s the month of love readers and I hope this February finds you spending time and enjoying the ones that you love the most. For me, as I write my column this month, I do so with a heavy heart. It has been a rather burdensome few weeks, as I’ve helped my best friend battle through multiple medical crisis, and attended funerals of beloved friends and family members. I’ve given a lot of thought these past few months, and I’m wondering if any of you ever do the same, about death. Wait. Isn’t this column supposed to be about children and parenting and an occasional rant for the sake of my having to consult a therapist? It is, but every now and then I take the creative liberty to write about things that weigh heavy on me, things that get heavier as I get older. As you know readers, because I try to write with a transparent keyboard, and I share with you a lot of things about my life, I have experienced my share of the dark, black abyss called grief. I am all too keenly aware of the fact that life simply hangs in the balance for us, and every day is a gift. In the blink of an eye, it can turn on you and that fast-paced life you were living can render you to a crawl. I really wanted to share my “love” story with you this month, readers, because it deserves retelling and it is after all, the month of love and love stories, right? I mean, who knew what

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would result for me from a chance meeting at my 10-year class reunion? Three beautiful children…a beautiful life…a life that has had its share of fractures, of heartbreak, of grief, but a beautiful life nonetheless. Who knew when Scott stalked me at our 10-year class reunion, and by stalk I mean a Nancy Grace worthy stalking case, that I would say “yes” to a lunch date and the rest would

be, as they say, history. Depending on which historian you ask, there might be some dispute as to what classifies as stalking, but listen to me very carefully, readers, every time I turned around at my reunion Scott was standing in “my space.” I would remind him that he did indeed have a date (incidentally, I did not…and my mother and sister made me go to this merrymaking) and he was quick to respond “No worries,

she’s eating shrimp.” Wait. Let me get this straight…you dumped your date to stalk someone you haven’t seen in 10 years AND someone who thought you were a MOWRON in high school? Folks, there you have it…proof that at ONE TIME in my life I must have looked like a babe. But, my babe status is not the subject of this month’s column even though this Harlequin type love story kind of is. Well, not really a Harlequin romance, but this month’s column is a reminder that there are all types of love stories… romantic love stories, family love stories, friend love stories, pet love stories…love is in fact in every facet of our lives… if we just let it in. Last week my family had to say goodbye to a close family friend…one of my sister’s best childhood friends and someone who had always been like a sister to me. This love story, however, was difficult to endure, readers, for you see, this friend died because she couldn’t overcome an addiction. For years her family and friends would beg her to quit but were actually helpless in helping her overcome her disease. Oh, the struggles we have watched; the heartaches we have witnessed; the pain we have experienced. In particular, her daughter, now a young adult, who now must face the rest of her life without her mom, is left

with grief, with guilt, with heartache. It’s hard to watch someone you love so much go through this kind of pain, knowing that there is really nothing you can say that will remove or take away anything she is feeling. What you want to say, and what you want her to know is this love story, even with this tragic ending, is still a story of love. Through the years, and even during the difficult dark times, we never stopped loving. From my experience, this experience, people with addiction often feel lost, unloved, ashamed, when the reality is the people who are trying to help them, the people standing in the gap never stop loving them. They never want them to feel shame or humiliation. They simply want them to find their way, to overcome, to win the battle. It’s a slippery slope, I know from experience, when you feel that tough love is necessary; love so tough that you lose your voice from screaming, from begging, from crying, still to no avail. How can someone who is so beautiful, with just as much inward beauty, not see what we see? How can someone with everything to live for privately continue to do the very thing that convinces her she has nothing to live for? These are battles, questions that I

don’t have the answers to, nor will I ever understand. I have never been addicted to anything (well, food if that counts and that might be a different column for a different day) and the disease she suffered from is as foreign to me as the Russian dialect. But this I do know, many people suffer from similar diseases and the outcome is the same many times. My sister and I have talked about it quite a bit through the years, as Shelley sacrificed much to try and help her friend, and the end result was the one thing that my sister fought so hard to prevent. As I sat in my friend’s funeral, and listened to my sister deliver her eulogy so eloquently, with so much love, a few words came to my mind… senseless, unnecessary, preventable. I wish we could have reached her. I wish we could have made her realize her worth to us. I wish she were here, laughing her deep belly laugh at everything I said. But she is not…she is resting, I pray, at peace, for the first time in over 20 years with no more struggles, no more pain. Is this the outcome we prayed for or wanted? Absolutely not, but it is the outcome we must suffer through and it’s a story that bears repeating, for many reasons. If you are that friend, that family member, trying to help someone you love overcome

their addictions, I hope you know your worth and continue to fight for their lives. If you are that person, like my friend suffering with the same demons, I pray you will cling to the hope that there is a better way and work your way to find it, and know that you are worthy, you are valued and you are loved. It was a tough column to write, readers, tears streaming, heart aching, but it’s a compelling love story that I pray will help even one person. Knowing my good friend, this would give her peace to know her story was used to help someone before they know the same outcome that she sadly did.

Cindy G. Foust is a wife, mom, author and blogger. You can find her blog at the alphabetmom.com for weekly columns about home life, parenting, small business stories, insight with a smidgen of literacy. Give her a like or follow on Facebook and Instagram.

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BABY MINE

Meredith’s Musings article by ME R E DI T H MCK I N N I E

y second pregnancy experience in less than two years far exceeded the first. I’m not sure if it was simply knowing what to expect or not being plagued with crippling carpal tunnel, but the relatively minor inconveniences this time were welcome. We had a scheduled C-section, a day before my beloved OB/GYN left town, and all the family present. The nurses and even Doc seemed more mellow in the operating room, or perhaps they could sense my calm. The spinal tap resulted in nausea, but I didn’t throw up thanks to alcohol wipes strategically placed under my nostrils. It’s odd being behind the curtain, you know they’re hacking you open less than a foot away, but not being able to see makes it easier to pretend it’s happening to someone else. Even my husband refuses to watch; he’s just as squeamish as I am. My teeth chattered incessantly, despite my body feeling warm in the cold room. Within 45 minutes, Doc had stitched me back up, and this tiny bundle was resting in my husband’s arms. She had Wilder’s face, the spitting image of her sister. A new hospital policy prevented my husband from the walk down the hall with the newborn in his arms. The waiting room full of people were disappointed, but were permitted to come back to see me two-by-two. Funny, the women always barrel in with huge smiles, knowingly comfortable in the environment of tubes and blood and “fresh out the wombness.” The men always hover in the corner, barely inside the curtain door, as if their very presence might disrupt the natural order of things. The women go straight for the baby; the men respectfully inquire about my well-being. It says a lot about gender and expectations and how men see themselves in an experience where their presence is expected, but not necessarily needed for a successful birth.

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I was wheeled to room 447. My husband immediately looked out the window and noticed the chapel and courtyard below, the same view from two years prior. We were in the same room. It seemed kismet for our daughters, born two years apart, within ten minutes of one another. My first of four nurses introduced herself, making it known my care was her primary concern. I called the nurses at St. Francis my angels during my first birth, and Sarah, Ashley, Brooke, Sonya, and April again brought the light to what can be a scary, exhausting, and hormone-induced experience. I thank them for their patience with an impatient patient like myself. The next two days were a blur of visitors and newborn cuddles and the added bonus of watching our two-year-old meet her little sister for the first time. I had been telling Wilder for months as my stomach grew that a baby was in there. Once she laid her little head against my stomach and attempted to peep through my belly button, to catch a glimpse of the imaginary baby mommy kept talking about, but she wasn’t convinced. That day when Nana and Papa brought her in the room, she leaned in close to the newborn’s face and marveled. Her smile was slow to spread across her cheeks, as if all the preparation and promises were culminating in one moment. She triumphantly exclaimed, “She out! She out!” We went home on a Friday morning. My husband went to get the car while I waited on my wheelchair. I sat alone on the bed, my belongings in an old baseball backpack my husband had received at a tournament. It wasn’t a fancy bag; it wasn’t even mine. It was just practical in size and shape and it reminded me how women packed up babies inside these rooms every day. Some were new mothers; some seasoned, but all leaving with a new life cradled in their arms, their bodies still recovering from the tremendous stress and endurance of childbirth. It was a big day for me, but just an ordinary day in the intersecting halls of the maternity ward. As the young red-haired boy wheeled me out of my room, I glanced back down the hall, past the coffee station and nursery, toward the hall leading to the NICU. In the last two days, as I was trudging up and down the halls to enhance my mobility, I ventured to the back hall. In lieu of fancy Etsy-esque wreaths, many of these doors had the generic baby blue or pink options from the hospital gift shop, signaling unexpected early births. The documented weights were 3 lbs and 2 lbs. One dated back two months. I would sometimes see the NICU parents, the tiredness in their eyes as they made their way to the door that held their newborn babies, many fighting for their little lives. I cradled my daughter even closer as the boy wheeled us to the elevator. The ride home was euphoric in that I was so happy to see the sunshine after three days indoors. Even the warmth of the 90 plus degree day is a welcomed alternative to the hospital cold. We navigated the twenty-minute drive across town, my husband and I catching up as couples do once life returns to normalcy. I glanced in the back seat and was surprised when I remembered the little one in tow. Her sister always makes her presence known; I wasn’t used to the quiet from a rear-facing car seat. As we pulled into the carport, a familiar little face was peeking through the blinds, lit up with excitement that her parents were coming home. For the next several days, she would wake up, rush to whomever was holding her sister and insist, “Baby, mine.” She knows without fully understanding that they belong together. Big sister senses the power of family before she can even say the word.

BAYOUBUZZWORTHY ULM CHEERLEADING TEAM COMPETES

^ST. JUDE DREAM HOME

Tickets are on sale now for the 2020 St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway! This year’s home is located in Egret Landing in Monroe and built by BRACO Construction and designed by Jan Strickland of Strickland Interiors. The 3 bedroom, 4 bath home is approximately 2,600 square feet and has an estimated value of $410,000. You can tour the home on Saturdays and Sundays from March 21st to April 12th. Tickets are $100 and the winner will be drawn on April 19. You can purchase a ticket online at stjude. org/give/dream-home/monroe.html or by calling 1-800-726-9874.

The ULM Cheerleading team competed in the UCA Game Day Competition for the first time in Orlando Florida at the 2020 UCA College Nationals. They placed 8th in the nation and 1st place in Game Day and 2nd in the Nations ranking at the University World Cup Championship. The ULM Cheerleading team consists of 25 – 28 All-Girl members and 4-6 co-ed members. The team cheers at all football games, home basketball games and pep rallies; and makes appearances at soccer games, volleyball games, baseball/softball games, and community events..

^“I DO I DO” EXHIBIT

Wedding dresses of all styles from 1942 to 1995 are being displayed in the Old Post Office Museum for the “I Do I Do” exhibit going until February 28th. It’s about family, it’s about memories, it’s about a community coming together to share cherished treasures. The exhibit will include over 30 wedding dresses and their stories, gathered and shared by various people from Franklin Parish.

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J.S. Clark Magnet School Excellence in Science, Math and Technology

N 1993, J. S. CLARK MAGNET SCHOOL WAS RESTRUCTURED with the vision of focusing on excellence in science, math and technology. This vision continues today. J. S. Clark Magnet School offers a fast paced curriculum with emphasis on innovative classroom activities, while mastering national and state grade level expectations. J. S. Clark Magnet School stands apart from other elementary schools in several ways. We consistently lead the district in standardized test scores, and have acquired “A rating” status many years. We have been awarded honors such as, “A School of Academic Achievement,” “Magnet School of Excellence,” and “Title I Distinguished School.” Additionally, we are the only elementary school in the area with academic labs embedded into our weekly schedule. All students are able to attend the following enrichment labs weekly: Math Lab, Science Lab, Computer Lab, Art Lab, Fine Arts Lab, Writing Lab, Character Counts Education and Physical Education. In addition to our labs, we offer band, choir and orchestra. Our Science Lab maintains a garden, a pond and a wide assortment of animals. The Math Lab uses hands-on activities and an array of manipulatives to enhance student learning. Our featured extra-curricular activities include Chat and Chew Book Club, National Elementary Honor Society, Student Council and Robotics’ Club. Our Robotics’ Club steadily places at the top of the

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division in district-wide competitions. Our parent and community outreach activities include Science Day, 100 Days of Math, STEAM Night, Dad’s Day BBQ and Beach Day, among others. Local businesses including: First National Bank, James Machine Works, Grambling, LSU Ag Center, Black Bayou, Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo, ULM, and LaTech have partnered with us. We are also a site school for ULM and LaTech’s College of Education’s TEaM Model. J. S. Clark Magnet School will begin open enrollment for the 20202021 school year on March 23, 2020 for grades Pre-Kindergarten through Sixth. Our registration is open to any student living within the Monroe City area. Registration will be in the school gym from 7:30 until noon. A completed packet must contain the following: birth certificate, updated state of Louisiana Immunization Record, copy of social security card, and two proofs of residency within the Monroe City limits. In addition, students registering for grades 1-6 must present a copy of their most current report card. Pre-Kindergarten applicants must have proof of income. For more information or a school tour, please contact Brian Bush, Principal, or Wendy LaSuzzo, Assistant Principal, at (318) 3228976.

The Importance of Keeping Your Money Local The Benefits of Using Local Businesses

RIDE IN YOUR STATE, CITY AND community begins on the local level. Customers and business owners who develop a personal connection build trust, camaraderie and soon the transaction becomes a personal accomplishment for both parties. By keeping your money in the local market you are investing in your home and also your community. Purchasing materials from local businesses and vendors builds stronger communities and when local businesses flourish the ripple effect is in full swing. Whether you are building a new construction or remodeling, a vital key for success is selecting your countertop materials at a locally owned fabricator. Some businesses that offer building and remodeling goods and services, as well as solid surface countertops, outsource the fabrication and installation to a third party. This third party step adds to your cost and ultimately your concerns due to transport, completion and customer service thus widening the window of installation

and possibly delaying the completion of your project. When you choose Twin City Granite for your solid surface countertop projects, you are partnering with a company with years of quality craftsmanship expertise. Twin City Granite has a talented crew of stone craftsmen who want nothing more than to please our customers. We have a hands-on approach with each customer all through the selection process. With the growing trend of man-made quartz countertops, TGC has a wide selection of samples from various manufacturers for you to choose from. We also have access to thousands of natural stone slabs, literally a one minute drive from our front door to Louisiana Stone. Twin City Granite provides our customers with courteous and professional work every time. In addition to solid surface countertops, TCG also has a large selection of in stock vanity and kitchen sinks. With the installation of your new countertops if a new sink is in order, Twin City Granite has you covered. We secure our

under mount sinks with steal braces and clips to ensure a permanent seal to your countertop. Many other fabricators simply epoxy the sinks. This will eventually fail, causing your sink to separate from your countertop which is a costly repair. Twin City Granite specializes in installing solid surface countertops, bathroom vanities, outdoor kitchens, shower benches, tub decks and fireplace surrounds. If you can dream it, Twin City Granite can do it! We are a locally owned business located in the heart of Monroe, LA and proudly support our loyal customer base, area schools and community events. Owners, Joe and Faith Gremillion and the Twin City Granite team are continually working on local projects and is once again a proud sponsor of the 2020 St. Judeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dream Home. Stop by the Twin City Granite showroom at 300 N Stanley Avenue in Monroe or give them a call at 318-654-7487 to get started on your dream plan. Remember if you cannot see or hear stone fabrication actually taking place, you are at the wrong location!

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Simply Lou

This month, Lou shares her results from an unofficial poll of who won the “Sexiest Man Alive” article and illustrations by LOU DAV E N P ORT

or the last few months I have been thinking about what would make a great column for February, the month when our thoughts turn to love and such. The idea came to me that if People Magazine had an annual issue devoted to “The Sexiest Man Alive,” why couldn’t Bayou Life? And, I would certainly be glad to write it! I don’t have People’s contacts, but, I have Facebook friends and I knew they would be up for an “unofficial poll” of who their favorites were. First of all, what is “sexy” anyway? It’s an adjective and in the dictionary it is defined as “appealing.” I agree, but, there’s more to it than that. It’s rather subjective because what one person thinks is “sexy” another person may not. There’s a mixture of biological, psychological and experience-based factors. But let’s face it, we go for “looks,” especially when it’s people we have never met. So, I did a completely unscientific study on Facebook. I asked the question “who is the sexiest man alive” and got some very interesting answers. In fact, the response was

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so great, I took all the suggestions and put them into categories: actors, athletes and musicians. Paul Newman’s name was mentioned, so I had to amend the “criteria” since I hadn’t thought of any sexy men who had passed away. I had to rethink Paul completely. My mother loved him, I love him, my daughters love him . . . he crosses generations! This man must have been gorgeous when he was born and just got better until he died at age 83. He received “The Lifetime Achievement Award! And another award for those blue eyes! Since it’s my column, I did get to choose “The Sexiest Man Alive.” Of course, I chose a man who most are not aware of, someone flying “under the radar.” I picked MIKE ROWE,“Dirty Jobs,” Mike Rowe; “Returning the Favor,” Mike Rowe;” “Mike Rowe WORKS,” Mike Rowe. He’s brawny, handsome, a self professed “smart ass” and he sings opera! He also has a voice that is smooth as silk and doesn’t mind getting dirty. He believes in hard work and set up the Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation to promote trade schools to high school students. Rowe believes college isn’t for everyone but

everyone deserves to make a good living, and learning a trade is one of those ways. He travels the country spreading the word. One of his first jobs was working for QVC in the wee hours. He tells great stories of how and what he would do to stay awake while he “hawked” the goods. He’s from Baltimore, Maryland, and loves his parents. He’s just the total package to me, and mind you, it’s just my opinion. Actors: Tom Selleck and Sam Elliott were tied. These guys have been around a long time and are still turning heads. Good for them! We first met TOM SELLECK when he was Thomas Magnum in “Magnum P.I.” driving that red Ferrari and wearing those Hawaiian shirts. Now he is a distinguished police commissioner in “Blue Bloods.” SAM ELLIOT has been everywhere. He smoldered in “Road House” and showed his wit as “the stranger” in “The Big Lebowski.” JACK BLACK does a little bit of everything. He sings and has a band, a two man band with his long time friend Kyle, “Tenacious D.” He acts and moves like a gazelle! Jason Mamoa has lots of great tattoos and he’s Aqua Man. Adam Driver is mysterious, dark and eyes “blue as ice.” He’s a vampire, you know. Cole Hauser plays Rip on the TV show “Yellowstone.” Nothing like a fine cowboy. Kevin Costner stars in “Yellowstone,” too, and he is getting better looking with age. Matthew McConaughey . . . “Allright, allright, allright.” Is there anything left to say about him? Chris Pratt was awesome as Andy on “Parks and Rec” but he’s now even greater as Quill the StarLord in all the “Guardians of the Galaxy” movies. Ryan Reynolds was Van Wilder first and won us over, but now he’s Deadpool. That’s my favorite superhero because I like mine a little on the “inappropriate side!” Josh Brolin . . . remember the movie, “Goonies?” He was Mikie’s big brother. Now, he is a total tough guy being Cable in “Deadpool” and Thanos in “Gaurdians of the Galaxy.” Sam Heughan is the “Hot Scot” in “Outlander” and plays Jamie Fraser. He does wear his kilt well. Jeffrey Dean Morgan has been in “Grey’s Anatomy,” and “The Good Wife.” Now he is having a grand time playing Neagan, the villain with a glorious sense of humor in “Walking Dead.” He gets all the good lines and they are usually bawdy! Such a great “bad boy!” Chris Helmsworth is the only man who can be Thor. Travis Fimmel is the hottest Viking to ever raid and pillage a village in “Vikings.” He had the perfect name, too, Ragnor Lothbrook.

WHAT ONE PERSON THINKS IS “SEXY” ANOTHER PERSON MAY NOT. THERE’S A MIXTURE OF BIOLOGICAL, PSYCHOLOGICAL AND EXPERIENCEBASED FACTORS. MIKE ROWE TOM SELLECK SAM ELLIOT JACK BLACK ADAM DRIVER COLE HAUSER KEVIN COSTNER MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY CHRIST PRATT RYAN REYNOLDS JOSH BROLIN SAM HEUGHAN JEFFREY DEAN MORGAN CHRIS HELMSWORTH TRAVIS FIMMEL BRYAN CRANSTON BRAD PITT LEONARDO DICAPRIO JOE MANGANIELLO TAYLOR KINNEY SEAN CONNERY SIR ANTHONY HOPKINS SIR PATRICK STEWARD DENZEL WASHINGTON BILL MURRAY KEITH RICHARDS ERIC CHURCH BLAKE SHELTON JON PARDI CHRIS STAPLETON ALAN JACKSON SAMMY KERSHAW DWIGHT YOKAM GEORGE STRAIGHT JOE BURROW COACH O.

Bryan Cranston is the one and only Walter White from “Breaking Bad.” Matt Damon is the hottie from “Good Will Hunting” and the only Jason Bourne. Brad Pitt is that kind of handsome that doesn’t seem to even know he’s handsome. Leonardo DiCaprio who we’ve watched grow up is a great actor and even more, he’s such an environmentalist. Joe Manganiello had one of his roles in “Magic Mike” which put him on the list. Taylor Kinney plays Kelly Severied on “Chicago Fire.” He pretty much sets the TV on fire. Sean Connery was the first James Bond. I still think he was the best. He’s 88 years old now and still knows how to wear his kilt. He’s headed for a “Lifetime Achievement Award.” Sir Anthony Hopkins is just so interesting and smart and can play anybody. Sir Patrick Stewart is Jean Luc Picard, and he’s a great comedian, too! Denzel Washington, I have never seen a bad movie that has Denzel Washington in it. He’s all round good. Bill Murray is who I saved for last. A sense of humor is a powerful thing and Bill has “it.” Watch “What About Bob?” and if you don’t laugh, get to an emergency room fast! Musicians: This is a controversial choice, but, I still think Keith Richards is sexy in his own special way. I didn’t think that when he was young but now that he has all those years and miles on him, he’s great! He’s been rockin’ for over 50 years and just seems to get better. Did you know he lives a quiet life in Connecticut? And, how many 75 year olds can wear eyeliner and carry it off? Eric Church, Blake Shelton, Jon Pardi, Chris Stapleton are all new country musicians, all talented in their own way and very good looking, too. Alan Jackson, Sammy Kershaw, Dwight Yoakum, and George Straight are an older group of great country musicians. They just keep on doing what they do best. George Straight never ages and I do

wonder how Dwight Yoakum gets into those tight leather pants. Don’t you? Athletes: Joe Burrow, that kid, oh, that kid! Who couldn’t love this kid? What determination, skill, heart and soul he brings to the game. He’s going to go far and we will all cheer him all the way. Coach O is one of the most dynamic men I’ve ever seen. He has the biggest heart and he sure doesn’t mind showing that side of himself. I wonder if he realizes how much love he’s brought to LSU football? Drew Brees, Alvin Kamara, Sean Payton….oh, the whole Saints and LSU football teams. What a year they have all given us. That qualifies all of them for this column! Honorable mentions. There are a lot of them and I cannot leave them out. They were suggested and that means somebody noticed they had that “certain something” that makes them sexy and memorable. Jon Hamm, Tyson Beckford, Paul Rudd, David Letterman (without the beard), Shemar Moore, Jimmy Smits, Jeff Goldblum, Robert Downey Jr., Norman Reedus, Chris Isaak, Joaquin Phoenix, Harry Connick Jr., Micheal Buble’ and the one and only, Stone Cold Steve Austin. So, there seems to be a lot of conventionally good looking men on this “unofficial” listing but, there’s also a lot of men whose looks would be considered “outside of the box.” It just proves “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” It’s been a fun column to write and I want to thank all my Facebook friends who gave me a wide and varied list of suggestions for “The Sexiest Man Alive!” Mike Rowe believes “there simply needs to be a world in which people laugh.” He adds, “ the kinder and gentler way of communication that used to be the norm, now isn’t.” We can change that! Let’s be kind to one another and most of all, let’s laugh! This column is dedicated to my Mama . . . she really loved Paul Newman and taught me to appreciate beauty in all things.

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B AY O U O U T D O O R S

High Hopes For Growth article by DAN C H ASON

couple of my favorite lakes have some features that are very common. When I was an avid tournament fisherman, it was hard to sleep when I was near the shores of Toledo Bend, Sam Rayburn, Lake Fork and yes, Caney Lake. You see, these lakes had some very similar features with the one feature that grows big bass. That feature was grass. There are many species of grass to be found in just about every body of water. There is what we refer to as “good grass” and “bad grass.” I will concentrate on good grass as that seems to be the most misunderstood thing when it comes to bass fishing. There is an old saying that “grass makes bass” and there is not a truer statement ever made. I once did a television show flipping grass on Caney Lake and when I said one thing on air, there was almost an uprising that took place afterwards. I can remember 134 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

pulling up at Little Bucks on Caney and having to sit in line for 45 minutes just to launch my boat. In the early 90’s that was the norm. Boats from all over, not only locally but boats from out of state were making the trip to attempt to capture that elusive trophy bass. I made the statement that “I have never seen a ski boat from Wisconsin in line to ski at Caney, but I’ve sure seen a lot of bass boats from there and other far away states lined up to bass fish.” What you have to understand about tourism dollars is that if we attracted 500 fisherman to an area lake who reside in our state, we are not making headway. When we bring or attract events and people from outside of the area, that is new money. New money is what businesses need in our area whether it be from fuel, food or lodging dollars spent to fish. What happened to Caney was partially mismanagement but mostly due to the aging of a lake and a

natural cycle. Too many carp, not enough forage fish (like shad) and no other method to manage grass was in place. Good grass comes in basically three varieties: hydrilla, coon tail and eel grass. All of these types of the best cover for baitfish which in turn is good cover for baby fish or fry. The issue with hydrilla which can be found on Caney is that it tops out. Sail boats, ski boats and jet skis do not navigate hydrilla well as in the summer, the grass “tops out” or mats to provide cover. It is very much alive and if you take a temperature gauge in July for example, you will see a significant cooler temperature within this mat. This gives life to the lake as it protects what otherwise would be eaten or scattered/suspended due to the heat. What this means for a fisherman is that most shallow water fisherman will not find bass shallow as the lake cycles. These fish will move out to ledges and deeper water to

find suitable food and cover. The grass is the life blood of a lake. If you look at Fork, Rayburn or Toledo there used to be miles of hydrilla that could be fished. All of these lakes went through a period where the hydrilla died off and the fishing died with it. It wasn’t the fact that the fish were gone. Areas where you could pull into one area and catch a limit were now void of big bass. They weren’t gone, they just moved. When big fish move they are very difficult to locate and almost impossible to pattern for big numbers of catches. What that means for lake owners, fisherman and water sports enthusiasts is to understand that cycle. When LDWF placed 12,500 grass carp in Caney Lake, it accelerated the cycle. I remember seeing grass carp wallowing in the shallows like sharks and with it went the good fishing. I also remember the same areas, pitching hydrilla and catching multiple 6 plus pound bass without ever cranking by big motor for the day. There is a fair medium. The medium is to physically control bad grass. Giant salvania is the enemy of everyone who enjoys being on the water. This grass is the worst you can find and can be found on just about every lake in North Louisiana. This

This gives life to the lake as it protects what otherwise would be eaten or scattered/suspended due to the heat. was the same issue faced in Black Bayou north of Monroe and is still an issue today, although on a smaller scale. Physical efforts such as barriers, spraying and removal has gotten it under control. But the gem of our area is on a comeback. Caney Lake is now seeing some hydrilla coming back and with it you will see bigger bass this year. But there is one

thing that needs to be addressed still today. In other states, there are good efforts to limit the transportation of bad grass. This is accomplished by requiring boats and trailers to be cleaned of grass when moving from or entering into a body of water. It only takes a small amount of grass and it can easily be transported to another body of water. You cannot prevent grass transportation as it can also be moved via birds and other wildlife. But we can make a difference with this one simple exercise. The grass fishing will be great this summer and again we will enter the discussions on what is right for Caney. Is it right to hamper lake property owners from enjoying their lake life? Is it right to deny businesses in and near the lake to suffer losses because the fishing isn’t what it could be? Everyone has their point of view and perspective. And no one is necessarily wrong for having their point of view. But there is one fact. The fact is that everyone benefits from good lake management whether it be Caney, D’Arbonne, Claiborne or Cheniere. Property values are directly affected by the desire to have a place where you can enjoy all of what nature provides. The question is: can we find a fair medium?

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CRAFTING SOUNDS AND VISUALS AS DIVERSE AS THE CULTURES FROM WHICH THEY GREW, STONERPOP IS KEEPING THEIR MUSIC ARTISTIC AND THEIR ART VISIONARY.

STONERPOP A R T I C L E B Y VA N E L I S R I V E R A A N D P O R T R A I T S B Y A N D R E W B A I L E Y

t took Maudie Michelle Rosenberry, vocalist, lyricist, and audio composer of American electronic duo Stonerpop, thirty minutes to record seven seconds of the band's 2017 stop-motion music video. That two-and-a-half-minute video created for the track "Headglow" (from their 2017 album Physical Business) earned the duo an Official Selection in the 2018 African Smartphone International Film Festival. That set the stage for the band's particular approach to their music content. "As a multimedia artist, I cannot justify ignoring art at either the auditory or visual end of the spectrum. It only makes sense to marry the two," says Rosenberry. True to form, four music videos preceded the release of their new album. Launched on January 1st, American Dreams is a ten-track "dystopian dreamscape" whose "ethereal journey" is not only documented in sound but also the color and visual elements of music videos, which "support and enforce the underlying feeling and meaning” of their songs. Crafting sounds and visuals as diverse as the cultures from which they grew, Stonerpop is keeping their music artistic and their art visionary. Rosenberry jokes that at one point, she was traveling between the South and the Pacific Northwest. Born in California and raised in Idaho, she would often visit her father in Louisiana and finally stuck around Monroe to study English Literature at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, graduating with a Master's degree in 2013. It was during that time Rosenberry met now husband and Stonerpop counterpart Jimmie Bryant II. Bryant, originally from Shreveport, moved to Monroe, where he graduated from Neville High School. By 2015 the couple discovered their overlapping interests. "It started when Jimmie led a band called Prestor Jon," says Rosenberry. Hearing the band’s guitar work, she was inspired to dabble in string instruments, but being a brass player since age ten, they were a total enigma to her. Picking up the ukulele allowed her to amplify her musical radar, and after hearing

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English singer-songwriter Imogen Heap, she began to experiment electronically. "When she first approached me with the batch of material that she had, I had no idea how coherent it would be," reveals Bryant. "The polish of what she brought me just got me excited and jazzed about making it better in any way that I could." As a musician, Bryant thrives in collaborating with other artists, so when they started writing songs together, they set out with the understanding that they would have a hand in each other’s compositions. Bryant reveals that it's difficult to hash out verse if you're sitting next to your significant other. "You don't want to put the stupid stuff down," Rosenberry interjects, while Bryant recognizes that sometimes it inspires something better: "You have to wade through before getting to the sweet spot." Bringing varied perspectives to the project’s theme of personal relationships and the antsy feelings surrounding them, Stonerpop released their first, self-titled EP in 2016. Influenced by a range of artists, including Radiohead, Garbage, and Metric, Stonerpop developed out of the idea of embracing a new genre. "Stoner right now is indicative of a genre of rock, but stoner pop… we're trying to throw everything in the mix. Help me out, Maudie," says Bryant. "There is no singular sound. It's about subverting the expectation," chimes Rosenberry. "That's it," enthuses Bryant. The basis of their sound often will adapt and evolve, one melodic or tonal discovery leading to another, especially in their collaborative environment. "Lately, I've been calling it alt-pop," says Rosenberry, though their music could also fall under the ambient electropop or trip hop umbrellas. Rosenberry and Bryant are sonically unique, considering their cultural context. "Pulled to the electronic genre of music is rare for where we are geographically and subculturally," says Bryant. But just because they're not what you might expect them to be, they are definitely not any less legitimate. He adds, "When we talk about subverting expectations, we use the universality of pop to set expectations that, at our best, we break." With their latest record, Stonerpop wants to "encourage people to both relax and take action." The new album American Dreams is a follow-up to their 2018 release, Apollo (named after their son and released on his birthday, December 20th). A conceptualized project, Dreams was built workshopping soundscapes and ideas for Apollo. "When Maudie revealed her artwork, I was inspired. Part of the digital artifacts that she used resembled a skyline, and the depth and range of color she used really spoke to me," says Bryant. Rosenberry reveals that the cover art for the album is highly inspired by a longing for comfort and peace. "The colors are meant to make the viewer initially feel at ease, but the imagery of the artwork hints at something else," she says. Rosenberry chose a photograph of herself looking slightly surprised in order to portray "the uncertainty of what is to come," a prevalent emotion throughout the album.

"The digital pixel sorting also adds a dimension of visual entropy to the image, hinting that everything is temporary." The title is meant to refer to "the lie" and how it's blown up into fighting for the generally sought American dream, which Rosenberry says, is “living in the dystopia.” To Bryant the American dream is reminiscent of a cheese wheel or playing the lottery. "The predetermined definition or path that has been set out by our culture has changed," he finishes. Stonerpop follows a clear aesthetic with American Dreams, one they would classify as "dreamy and trippy and otherworldly." That dreaminess associated with their musicscapes alludes to the "raw grittiness dealing with issues in your brain, sorting things out," she says. Bryant has a formula for choosing what type of songs go with different instrumentation, and those decisions on the juxtaposition of sound, melody, harmony, and later visuals, is at the heart of the output of the duo’s songcraft. Each song can take you out of space and time, but it's not all "fluffy clouds," says Rosenberry. In fact, there is always an intentional socio-political message in their sound, lyrics, and visuals. The new videos produced for some of the songs on American Dreams come off as galactic acid trips or Andy Warhol color palates in motion. Though they were outsourced to talented animation artists, each video was heavily guided by Rosenberry's album cover and color schemes. Even their eerie instrumental song/video "Right Place Wrong Time" follows hues of pastel colors, perfectly intertwined with the visual message—a caution to the dangers of commercialism. "Instrumentals allow listeners the freedom to forge deeper interpretations and connections with the music," says Rosenberry. In the song/video "Subroutine," the disconnect between friends and people that care about each other is the focal point: "Can I miss you, and it make me happy?" In the video, as if we were traveling through a memory, two droid friends traverse changing terrain, juxtaposing the yearning of the singer to maintain a connection with loved ones. In "House of Cards," Bryant's vocals broach the dilemma of America’s “really weird hypocritical institution.” Rosenberry assertively points out: "The hypocrisy of the state of immigration in the United States of America." The song and video attempt to reach out and address immigration in a global sense as well, but Bryant's inspiration was drawn from local headlines. "Even though our music is dark, we're peace love hippies," clarifies Rosenberry. To celebrate the album, Stonerpop scheduled an Album Release Party and Masquerade at Sal's Saloon in Monroe on December 28th, a venue they frequently use for performances. "Justin McCormick is probably one of the most undervalued members of our music scene," says Bryant. "He's been epically consistent and fair and gracious with artists. It's so important to our community. Monroe has celebrated

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music venues, but they're not all for "unpolished musicians," explains Bryant. Sal's Saloon gives an array of musicians a platform for their art, while still balancing talented acts, locally and regionally. As a mainly electronic show, Stonerpop's performance backbone is their audio mixing console, accompanied by Rosenberry's calming vocals, and Bryant's instrumental interjections. The couple isn't showy, allowing their loungy soundscapes to carry the show and listeners wherever they will. "I just want us to go back to the beginning and see Maudie write the bones of another record," exclaims Bryant. "I got it in me. I'm gonna bring it," she replies. Already exploring possible material for a next music project, the duo is currently sketching details out, throwing ideas at the wall to see what sticks. "We're waiting for the right idea to come," says Rosenberry, revealing that 2020 is going to see some singles. Allowing the journey to guide their ideas to completion plays a pivotal role in their creative process. "Artists get hung up on a project and don't get to access the full experience. I personally can struggle with that," admits Bryant. "It's scary, the experience of writing music and writing my own words, sharing it, and performing," says Rosenberry. "It levels you up." At heart, American Dreams is about everyday paradoxes that, upon careful inspection, bemuse and inspire radical introspection. "The album is about confidence and the lack thereof. It's about impostors, both real and fake. It's about failure and the illusion of victory," the couple proclaims in a press release. Whether or not that's a listener's takeaway, Stonerpop provides their audience with a unique experiential departure from the day-to-day. For the complete Stonerpop experience, follow them on Facebook, Spotify, and Youtube. For more information and/or promo requests, visit their website: www.stonerpopculture.com.

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AT HEART, AMERICAN DREAMS IS ABOUT EVERYDAY PARADOXES THAT, UPON CAREFUL INSPECTION, BEMUSE AND INSPIRE RADICAL INTROSPECTION.

Cozy and Intimate

Kahlo Tapas & Tequila for Valentine’s Day

OWNTOWN MONROE’S KAHLO TAPAS & TEQUILA IS setting the stage for the perfect romantic dinner. On the night of Valentine’s Day there will be live music by Mason Howard and the tavern-esque space is quite cozy and intimate. Cafe-style tables and chairs scatter the main dining floor, while croc patterned banquette seating, perfect for large parties, line half of a wall. Exposed brick walls peek out from under a red painted stucco, and an elevated lounge houses three vintage style sofas at the foot of the beautiful wall mural. Painted antique tin-tile ceilings feature pendant lights and an antique candelabra chandelier that marks the bar area, noted by high bar shelves and a ladder that can access the literally top-shelf tequila. Most of Kahlo’s cocktails are tequila-based, namely the Paloma and Vampiro, two Mexican favorites. Paloma (dove) is México’s most beloved cocktail of carbonated grapefruit and tequila balanced with fresh-squeezed lime juice. The Vampiro (vampire), appropriate for the festivities of this month, is mixed tequila and Viuda de Sánchez (Sanchez’s widow), México’s best selling sangrita (a drink mix of lime, orange, and peppers). It’s tangy and refreshing! In the Kahlo menu, a stand-out tapa listed is is their Camarones a la Diabla (Spicy Shrimp) served with a tomato based sauce, given a kick of spice, and rice. The most popular tapa, so far, is Kahlo’s Ceviche

Stack. This Spanish-influenced classic is made traditionally: cured fish and shrimp cooked with the citrus of fresh lime juice stacked in layers of avocado, cucumber, and pico de gallo. The beauty of the tapas dishes is that they can be combined to make a full meal. On the entrée side, you’ll notice a few familiar words like tacos, enchiladas, and huevos rancheros, but the key to some of the dishes in this section of the menu is the style in which the meat of your choice is prepared. Bistec ranchero (steak in ranchero sauce) is prepared in a piquant tomato-based sauce that includes onions, green chilis, and seasoning. Pork carnitas is Mexican-style slow cooked pork, equal parts crispy and tender. Chicharron en salsa is pork belly slow cooked in salsa. Asado de puerco is pork cooked in a red chili sauce. And Barbacoa is meat steamed until tender accompanied with onions and cilantro. Doesn’t matter what side of the menu you order from, your dish will not only be rich in taste, but also rich in color—just like the restaurant’s interior. After all, México is a color culture. The use of bright pigments in art and architecture represent the array of the country’s natural world. Make your reservations for Valentine’s Day and follow Kahlo on Facebook and Instagram for more upcoming events.

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Constellation Brands

An American Owned Company that Produces Quality Iconic Brands

ARSALA BEVERAGE HAS BEEN A partner with Constellation Brands for over 20 years. Constellation Brands is the visionary company behind the beer, wine and spirits brands that you love and have celebrated with for over 70 years. Driven, smart, passionate and agile, we are never content with the status quo, or playing it safe. We thrive on innovation and new ideas, and are at our best when pushing our boundaries. As an entirely American-owned company, they produce quality iconic brands such as Corona Extra, Modelo Especial, Corona Light, Corona Premier, Negra Modelo & many other beverages. Constellation Brands include: CORONA EXTRA With a refreshing, smooth taste balanced between heavier European imports and lighter domestic beer, Corona is an even-keeled cerveza with fruity-honey aromas and a touch of malt. The flavor is crisp, clean and well balanced between hops and malt. A superior taste profile from superior ingredients. CORONA LIGHT Corona Light is a pilsner-style lager with a uniquely refreshing taste—brewed for outstanding light flavor with a crisp, clean finish. Its pleasant, fruity-honey aroma and distinctive hop flavor make it a favorite of those seeking a light beer that is full of flavor. Corona Light’s naturally easy-drinking style makes it perfect for pairing with spicy and citrus-infused dishes.

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CORONA PREMIER Corona Premier offers the premium low-carb, light beer experience you’ve been waiting for. Its refined, crisp taste and evenbodied feel makes it the smoothest and most drinkable Corona. With only 2.6g of carbs and 90 calories, Corona Premier is perfect for casual entertaining, sharing with guests, or rewarding yourself for a day well-lived. CORONA FAMILIAR The best beers are made to be shared. That is why Corona Familiar embraces the bright, crisp taste Corona is known for with a slightly fuller flavor, higher ABV, and shareable 32oz packaging. With strong ties to authenticity and heritage, Corona Familiar is best served in small gatherings with close friends and family, using the tradition of sharing to create meaningful experiences. CORONA REFRESCA Corona Refresca is a premium spiked refresher that brings the taste of the tropics from Mexico to you. Available in Passionfruit Lime and Guava Lime, it is a bright, flavorful malt beverage with 4.5% ABV and natural fruit flavors. Crisp, flavorful, and never too sweet, Corona Refresca doesn’t sweep you away to the tropics, it brings the topics to you. MODELO ESPECIAL Brewed as a model of what good beer should be, this rich, full-flavored Pilsnerstyle Lager delivers a crisp, refreshing taste. Well-balanced taste and light hop character with a crisp, clean finish. Modelo Especial is characterized by an orange blossom honey

aroma with a hint of herb. Modeo is the #2 imported beer in the US. NEGRA MODELO Negra Modelo, better known as “the cream of the beer”, is a Munich-type beer with 5.3º of alcohol that offers a balanced flavor and a delicate aroma of dark malt, caramel and hops. Today it occupies the first place in sales among dark beers in Mexico. This beer is accompanied by a bright deep amber color, which is adorned with abundant, white and compact foam. Negra Modelo was introduced in Mexico in 1925 as the dark beer called Modelo, to begin its great tradition. In 2014 it changed its image to a more sophisticated bottle but with the same content. CERVEZA PACIFICO CLARA Cerveza Pacífico Clara, better known as Pacífico, is a Mexican pilsner-style beer. Cerveza Pacífico is named so because the Pacífico brewery is located in the Pacific Ocean port city of Mazatlán, in the state of Sinaloa, México Marsala Beverage is a local-based company that employs about 100 full-time employees, which all live and support the community of Northeast Louisiana. Each employee bases his or her success on never losing sight of delivering what is really important – quality products, timely service and a genuine concern for our customers’ needs. Please find us at www.marsalabeverage.com or follow us on social media: Facebook: Marsala Beverage Twitter: @marsalabeverage1 Instagram: @marsalabeverage

Dental Health for Pets Corner Vet Shares Why It’s So Important

HIS MONTH MAY BE ASSOCIATED with hearts, cupid and all things purple, green and gold, but it also a very important month at Corner Vet. This is the month they recognize pet dental care and it’s something they are very passionate about. Dental health is a very important part of your pet’s overall health, and dental problems can cause, or be caused by, other health problems. Your pet’s teeth and gums should be checked at least once a year by your veterinarian to check for early signs of a problem and to keep your pet’s mouth healthy. Have your pet’s teeth checked sooner if you observe any of the following problems: • Bad breath • Broken or loose teeth • Extra teeth or retained baby teeth • Teeth that are discolored or covered in tartar • Abnormal chewing, drooling, or dropping food from the mouth • Reduced appetite or refusal to eat • Pain in or around the mouth

• Bleeding from the mouth • Swelling in the areas surrounding the mouth Although cavities are less common in pets than in people, they can have many of the same dental problems that people can develop: • Broken teeth and roots • Periodontal disease • Abscesses or infected teeth • Cysts or tumors in the mouth. • Malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth and bite • Broken (fractured) jaw • Palate defects (such as cleft palate) Periodontal disease is the most common dental condition in dogs and cats – by the time your pet is 3 years old, he or she will very likely have some early evidence of periodontal disease, which will worsen as your pet grows older if effective preventive measures aren’t taken. Early detection and treatment are critical, because advanced periodontal disease can cause severe problems and pain for your pet. Periodontal disease doesn’t just affect your

pet’s mouth. Other health problems found in association with periodontal disease include kidney, liver, and heart muscle changes. It starts with plaque that hardens into tartar. Tartar above the gumline can often easily be seen and removed, but plaque and tartar below the gumline is damaging and sets the stage for infection and damage to the jawbone and the tissues that connect the tooth to the jaw bone. Periodontal disease is graded on a scale of 0 (normal) to 4 (severe). The treatment of periodontal disease involves a thorough dental cleaning performed under anesthesia. Dental radiographs are encouraged to fully evaluate the severity of disease. The team at Corner Vet can make recommendations based on your pet’s overall health and the health of your pet’s teeth, and provide you with options to consider. During the month of February, Corner Vet is offering 15% off dental cleanings and dental radiographs for pets! Take advantage of this special to ensure your pet’s mouth is happy and healthy!

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ENCHANTED GARDEN

Beauty blooms in these fun and flirty outfits from area boutiques. From lavender fields to red haute hues, these looks are perfect for Valentine's Day and more. Photography by Kelly Moore Clark Model: Georgia Faith Hill MUAH by Meka Bennett Reliford

HERRINGSTONE'S

This chunky knit lavender sweater features a V-neckline and frayed design. It is paired with a high waisted white mini skirt with frayed hem. Layer with this lavender faux shaggy fur jacket and white high knee boots with block stack leather heel.

SADIE C'S

This pink and black bodysuit features a surplice neckline, fluffed long sleeves and a cheeky bottom with snap closures. Pair with these solid black midrise jeans with a distressed fringe hem. Complete the look with black, suede heels and Ellie Vail hypoallergenic 18k gold plated jewelry.

DUSTY & COMPANY

This super soft red dress with 3/4 sleeves and a high-low hemline is perfectly paired with this white denim jacket with frayed hem.

LCF Donates to ULM

$10,000 for ULM Breast Cancer Research

HE LOUISIANA CANCER FOUNDATION HAS A 14-YEAR tradition of supporting breast cancer research at the University of Louisiana Monroe, helping to fund the work of Paul W. Sylvester, Ph.D., associate dean of research in the College of Pharmacy. LCF Executive Director James Adams, joined by Assistant Director Donna Jackson, Louisiana Cancer Foundation League President Mary Linda McCann and Board Chairman Nell Seegers, met with Sylvester Monday, Dec. 16, 2019, to present him with a check for $10,000. “Part of our mission is to support research,” said Adams. “Several years ago, we were looking for a good opportunity, something that we could get behind as far as funding, and that’s when we heard about Dr. Paul Sylvester. We found out about his research with tocotrienols and breast cancer and we were very impressed with him and his work.” “It is a good fit for us because we are local 501(c)(3). We raise money locally and put that money back into our community. We are proud to be able to fund research that is coming from our university. We are happy to be here today to be able to add an additional $10,000,” Adams said. Sylvester thanked the LCF for its financial support and for the relationship which has developed through the years. “It’s around $130,000 now that they have donated to our research,” Sylvester said. “It’s not only helped us out tremendously, but it’s been a way to connect with the community. We’ve done a lot of events together such as cancer patient support groups and fundraising activities.” “We’ve really had a good exchange and a good friendship. When you do cancer research, you worry about molecules. These guys put a human face on it and remind you that you are doing it for the patients,” he said. Sylvester is the B.J. Robinson/Pfizer Endowed Professor of Pharmacology at ULM. In addition to research funding, the LCF supports the Theresa Marsala Memorial Nursing Fund in the Kitty DeGree School of Nursing. This year, the LCF established a $50,000 endowed scholarship at ULM for cancer survivors, those undergoing treatment or with cancer in their immediate family, which has led to financial hardship. The LCF was founded in 1999 for several purposes, as stated on lacancerfoundation.org, “ … to increase public awareness, early detection, treatment and research throughout Northeast Louisiana.” Over the last 20 years, Adams said almost 10,000 people had received free screenings. Annually, the LCF hosts four free cancer screenings in the community for breast and cervical cancer, prostate cancer, skin cancer and colon/rectal cancer. It also funds a mobile mammography unit to reach underserved areas in the region. The fundraising arm of LCF, the Cancer Foundation League, has provided almost $2 million in financial assistance to people with cancer in Northeast Louisiana.

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Forever Young Grace Gala

On January 10, the 21st annual Grace Gala was held at the Sager Life Center at Grace Episcopal School. The theme was Forever Young 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Prom and everyone got into the spirit - from crimped hair to shoulder pads. The event was chaired by Tori Krutzer Fisher with support from parents, staff and teachers. Prom goers enjoyed food from Thurmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s while they bid on silent auction items. After the live auction, the Molly Ringwalds took the stage and took everyone on a musical journey filled with all of the hits that transcended the 80s and defined a generation.

On the BayouScene

1 Bay Smith and Lindsey Cumpton 2 Simran Emaus, Jordan Haedicke, Katie Rob Ambrose and Heather Yates 3 Amie Smith and Ellen Plummer 4 Meg and Matt Wood 5 Sara Barham and Sarah Cummins 6 Sabrina Racer and Liz McQueen 7 Randi Frazier, DeSha and Kara Sims 8 Jill and Lewis Young 9 Matt and Anna Blake 10 Tina Williams and Amie Hinkle 11 Erica Ryan, Jessica Grigson and Shelley Greene 12 J ames and Arabella Moore 13 Bay Smith, Thomas and Julie Boggs and Katie Rob Ambrose 14 Leigh Liles, Matt and Georgie Brown and Molly Boydstun 15 Ashton Hamby, Jessica Williams and Briane Lofton 16 Christi and Ryan Howard 17 Joe Montgomery and Matt Brown 18 Christine Monk and Christy Stidham 19 Janelle Snellings, Satchie Godfrey with Jodi and Matt Lyle

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FLIRTATIOUS FORTUNES The fortunes hidden behind the pleats of this origami fortune teller are sure to make you blush. Our designer, Meagan Russell, created this vibrant design that is available for download on our website. Print, fold and let your fortunes unfold. PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK STYLED BY TAYLOR BENNETT

How to fold: 1. Place fortune teller face down on work surface.

2. Fold in half diagonally to make a triangleâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;be sure to crease the fold well.

3. Now unfold, and fold again from the opposite corner.

4. Unfold the paper again. The creases should make an X.

5. With creased paper, printed

side down on work surface, fold each corner to the center point to make a square.

6. Turn folded fortune teller over (messages should be face up now), and fold corners to the center to make a smaller square.

7. Crease square vertically and horizontally, as shown. Then pull out corners to accommodate fingers and thumb.

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How to Play

Begin with the thumb and index fingers of each hand in the four pockets of the fortune teller. Have the person whose fortune is being read pick one of the numbers on the top four flaps. Count the numbers while alternating a pinching and pulling motion with the teller. Each pinch will expose four of the numbers on the inner flaps, and each pull will expose the other four numbers.

This makes a great valentine idea for your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s class party. Print enough to share with his or her class.

After counting the first pick, the origami teller will be showing one of the sets of four numbers. The other player will then pick one of those numbers, and the responding action is the alternating pinch and pull from the first round. Once the number has been counted, four numbers will be exposed. After a number is picked, the fortune under that number is read.

Laissez les Bons Temps Rouler ... Not Your Ankle

BY J. MARSHALL HAYNIE, MD

AISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER- LET THE GOOD TIMES roll! Louisianans love parties, family get togethers, and just about any viable reason to pass a good time. With Mardi Gras season in full swing, and fancy dresses and sky high heels abound, we often see many dancing the night away their bare feet…the once perfect pair of heels for their perfect “Let’s Mardi” outfit have proved too painful to wear and been tossed aside. Let’s face it- most high heels are uncomfortable and over time can cause significant damage to your feet and your ankles. Wearing heels causes your heel to be elevated leading your body to naturally shift forward which puts added pressure on the ball of your foot. The higher the heel means a greater tendency to shift more of your body weight forward, creating even more pressure on the ball of the foot and often causing you to hyperextend backwards to counterbalance the weight that has been shifted forward. This counter balance act not only affects your feet and ankles, but also can cause knee, hip and back pain. Common foot and ankle problems resulting from high heels: HAMMER TOES, BUNIONS, CORNS AND INGROWN TOENAILS Over time, wearing high heels with a narrow toe box can cause the foot to take the shape of the shoe, causing hammer toes, corns, bunions and ingrown toenails. High-heeled shoes place tremendous pressure on the fat pad under the ball of the foot, forefoot. The higher the heel the more pressure on the ball of the foot and a higher likelihood for injury. ANKLE SPRAINS AND TENDINITIS Repeatedly wearing high heels can cause all sorts of painful problems. Straining your ankles and other tendons surrounding the foot can lead to tendonitis. When your foot is elevated and the weight goes forward, a lot of tension gets taken off the Achilles tendon and it shortens over time. Women who are a bit older and have worn heels consistently, often complain that flat shoes are uncomfortable. This results from the tendons tightening from continuous wear of high heels their whole lives and it becomes uncomfortable when they’re stretched to their original length. Extra weight and pressure on the front of the foot can even cause a stress fracture and heels are more likely to exacerbate clumsiness that can lead to imbalance and twisting or straining the ankle. 152 FEBRUARY 2020 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

MORTON’S NEUROMA High-heeled shoes have been linked to the development of Morton’s neuroma due to the weight shifted forward to the ball of the foot from the elevation of the heel. Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of your foot, most commonly the area between your third and fourth toes. Morton’s neuroma may feel as if you are standing on a pebble in your shoe. This can cause a sharp, burning pain in the ball of your foot. Your toes also may sting, burn or feel numb. So, what do you do? Do you forgo the perfect shoes for your perfect outfit because they sport a high heel? Not necessarily… my wife and many of my patients would be the first to tell me that they were not willing to give up their favorite shoes because they have a heel. I offer a compromise, choose better shoes for day to day wear, so you can bring out the high heels for special occasions. I do have a few suggestions when choosing your footwear that can help preventing unnecessary pain and strain: • Choose a shoe with a wide toe box and two-inch or lower heel. If higher heels are preferred, shoes with a platform under the toe box decrease the overall stress on the foot. • Stretch your feet and calves in the evening. At the end of the day our muscles and tendons need a bit of relief- don’t forget your toes and ankles- they bare the brunt of your weight all day. • Get rid of worn out shoes or shoes that hurt your feet. Worn out shoes do not support your feet properly and if shoes hurt your feet today, they could have a negative impact in the long run. If foot and ankle pain persist, it may be time to consult with an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon. Don’t let your high heels get in the way of your good times… moderation and saving the heels for a special occasions will make sure that the good times keep rolling… not your ankles!. J. Marshall Haynie, MD is and orthopedic surgeon specializing in disorders of the foot and ankle/lower extremity. Dr. Haynie’s clinic has two locations in Shreveport and Bossier City. To schedule an evaluation with Dr. Haynie, please call his clinic, Orthopedic Specialists of Louisiana: 866.759.9679.

76 Grand Opening During the month of December, the local Now Save Stores introduced the 76 brand to Northeast Louisiana. With 16 stores across the region, Karl and Sookham Dhaliwal, and their daughter Simran Emaus, their son, Arjun and wife Satveer along with partners, have built a brand to serve the community. The introduction of the 76 brand represents the same family business with a retro, yet fresh image. During the opening, the stores offered 76-cent gas, as well as food and beverage offers, give-aways and games. This new image and reinvigorated vision will continue to invest in and serve our community.

On the BayouScene

1 Neel Dhaliwal and Justin Breitschopf 2 Karl Dhaliwal, Neel Dhaliwal, Arjun Dhaliwal, Satveer Dhaliwal, Sookham Dhaliwal and Simran Emaus 3 Vijay Singh and Karl Dhaliwal 4 Sookham Dhaliwal and Simran Emaus 5 Simran Emaus, Karl Dhaliwal, Satveer Dhaliwal, Arjun Dhaliwal and the 76 team

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G A L L E R Y of H O M E S 144 East Shore Road, Monroe

189 Ormond, Sterlington

705 Hollyhurst Ext., Bastrop

5 Bedroom, 3.5 Bath. Open concept with the family and dining rooms. Walk-in pantry. Master bedroom suite features double tray ceilings and master bathroom has double vanity, large jetted tub and fabulous walk-in shower. The master closet is divine with a lot of space and built-ins! Upstairs is the extra large 5th bedroom with private bath. Backyard with privacy fence, covered and uncovered patios. This one owner home is well-maintained and move-in ready! MLS#191625 Jackie Guillot, 318-855-2925, Vanguard Realty

A gracious southern estate and a true jewel of the south. Boasting 5 bedrooms, 4,500 heated SF, 6 acres of manicured grounds with a boathouse on beautiful Bayou Desiard, Built in 1917, this home was moved to its current location in the late 1990’s. Natural light permeates the totally updated kitchen. The 17’ x 29’ sun room allows plenty of room for entertaining large crowds. Spacious mother-in-law apartment includes a full kitchen and a large second story sunroom with sweeping views of the bayou. MLS#187358 Mark Sisk, 318-651-8000, RE/MAX Premier Realty

A grand estate fit for royalty! This timeless 4BR/3BA Acadian style home is tucked away on 1.2 acres of tree shaded grounds in Bastrop. There is a wood burning fireplace in the living room, a large kitchen and two dining rooms. This home also features a spacious master suite with his/her vanities and two walk-in closets. $263,000 MLS#189461 Mark Sisk, Re/Max Premier Realty, 318-801-4344

2102 Rosedown Drive, Monroe

3313 Deborah Drive, Monroe

1804 Milton Street, Monroe

Custom home in highly desired Louisianne Subdivision. Features include 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, an office, tall ceilings with heavy stacked crown moldings, and designer touches throughout. The master closet is over sized and a dream for any homeowner. All appliances are Stainless Kitchen aid. Granite in the kitchen, on the fireplace and laundry. The rear entry garage has brick pavers and a portable ac to extend the entertaining of the home. MLS# 190810, Mark Phelps, 318-237-5153, John Rea Realty

Modern meets rustic in this English style home! It has black ink travertine flooring throughout the foyer, dining room, halls and kitchen area. The master bedroom retreat has an en suite bath. You can access the backyard from the master bedroom, living room and den/sun room. Cook area with grill, brick patio, fountains, small pond and gazebo/storage complete this perfect back yard! MLS# 190450 Clark Smith, 318-366-4622, Barbara Thomas, 318-355-5551, John Rea Realty

This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home is completely remodeled and ready for a new buyer to move in for the New Year! All new flooring, paint, molding, light fixtures, doors, landscaping and new laundry/ mud room added into the heated square feet. Come enjoy this beautifully done home and add your personal touches. 2,177 sq. ft. MLS#191361 Heather Guillot, 318-855-2925, Vanguard Realty

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Ready to Roll

Inaugural Parade Rolls Through the Twin Cities

HE KREWE DE RIVIÈRE HAS SPENT THE LAST YEAR getting ready to roll through Monroe and West Monroe, all leading up to Saturday, February 8th. The theme is “The Roaring 20’s” and this year’s King is Tommy Sims and the Queen is Ginger Padgett. The parade will start in West Monroe near West Monroe High School and end at the Garrett House in downtown Monroe, just past the Rivermarket area. The Krewe’s ball will follow directly after the parade at the Monroe Civic Center. Joe Lastie and the New Orleans Sound will provide entertainment at the ball and there will be libations and a photo booth, as well as a few surprises. You can find more information on the Krewe de Rivière Ball’s event page and tickets are available on Eventbrite. At their core, the Krewe de Rivière believes in making new friends, letting creativity flow, increasing tourism in the area, business networking and creating an environment for people from all walks of life. “We are excited to bring a piece of New Orleans to Northeast Louisiana from having the traditional Mardi Gras Indians in the parade to our band that is playing at the ball,” said Judy Babb, one of the krewe’s founding members. “Our floats will be pulled by tractors and the parade will include floats, walking groups, riding groups and bands, as well as a few fun surprises. “We want the krewe and the entire experience available to everybody and we pride ourselves on being community based and all inclusive,” said Judy. The krewe is excited to implement a green initiative as well. “The throws on one of the first floats will be reusable bags,” said Judy. “People can use them to put their beads and anything else they catch in them, alleviating unnecessary trash in the street. They can also use them later for shopping.” Another way the krewe is reducing their carbon footprint is by buying beads from ArcGNO, a nonprofit that serves around 250 adults with intellectual disabilities in 5 day centers across the Greater New Orleans area. For the past 30 years, ArcGNO has created wage-earning jobs for individuals with intellectual disabilities by recycling Mardi Gras throws and reselling them. “At the end of the day, we want to attract people to our area and make an economic impact,” said Judy. “At minimum, we are hoping that this parade will generate $1.6 million dollars in just one day. According to statistics, one in three people that will watch the parade will be from out of town. It is great for our local restaurants, hotels and other businesses. Also, we want them to see the great things our area has to offer and come back.” In case you can't make it in person along the parade route, you can catch the live stream on KTVE/KARD from the Kilpatrick's location on North 7th Street in West Monroe. Additionally, KEDM will be broadcasting live from the newly opened 76 gas station on Louisville Avenue in Monroe. Judy and the rest of the krewe invites you to join them on this special adventure that will continue to grow and thrive for years to come! Special thanks to the sponsors including KTVE/KARD, JTB Rentals, Century Next Bank, Choice Brands, City of Monroe, Holyfield Construction, Stephens Media Group, BayouLife Magazine, Kelsey Klean, Music City Studios and Guerriero & Guerriero. For more information, find Krewe de Rivière find them on Facebook or call 318-237-0827.

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Cancer Foundation League Gala The Cancer Foundation League held their annual gala on Saturday, January 18th at the Bayou Desiard Country Club. The theme was an Evening of Southern Elegance and the event was just that. Guests enjoyed hearing about the mission of the nonprofit organization as well as bidding on live auction packages, silent auction items and mystery gift boxes. Music was provided by Lisa Spann and Company. Title sponsors of the event were Northeast Louisiana Radiation Oncology, Dr. Ross Bland, Dr. William Zollinger and The Luviah Foundation. The Cancer Foundation League is affiliated with the Louisiana Cancer Foundation as a fundraising arm to help with outreach and to support the Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programs and services.

On the BayouScene

1 Dustin Gibbs, Gregg Tidwell, Mary Linda McCann and Phil Lee 2 Trent and Emily Nunnelee, Catherine stuckey and Leslie and Andy Trahan 3 Mike and Jan Clay 4 Charvie and Bill Gordon and Elbert and Linda Via 5 Terri and Roy Arthur 6 Bill and Michelle Zollinger, Lorena and Ross Bland and Kirsty and Marty Bass 7 Brenda and Charles Marsala and Don and Shiela Dickson 8 Mae, Mary Amanda, Michael and Mary Beth Dickerson 9 Katelann Powell and Ginny McMullen 10 L orie Gill and Dessie Thrailkill 11 Aimee Kane, Staci Mitchell, Alice Oliver and Marcia Donald 12 Cindy Barnes and Marion Willson 13 Fran Miller and Debbie McNew 14 Barry McPherson, Tim Kane, Wendy and Michael Waller 15 Daniel and Sarah Raymond and Carla and Vance Castello 16 Christi and Ryan Howard 17 Deanna Shively and Babbette Adcock 18 Susie Lefebvre, Liz McQueen and Jennifer Sparks 19 Toby Butler and Sandra Banks 20 J eremy and Deidra Adair 21 Alice Oliver, Larry Danna and Karen and Dean Mailhes

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Calendar of Events For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com February 1 St. Vincent dePaul Community Pharmacy: Poor Man's Run The ULM College of Pharmacy will be hosting its 3rd Annual St. Vincent dePaul Community Pharmacy: Poor Man's Run. This family-friendly event is a charity 5K race and 1-mile fun run sponsored by the Pharmacy Council to raise money for our community's local non-profit pharmacy, St. Vincent DePaul Community Pharmacy. Venue: ULM School of Pharmacy 1800 Bienville Dr, Monroe Hours: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM Cost: $10-$30 Phone: 318-342-3800 Public Art 101 Workshop The Louisiana Percent for Art program invites you to attend its fifth Public Art 101 Workshop hosted by the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council. This workshop will provide you with the tools and necessary vocabulary to navigate the complex world of public art as well as offer guidance on the best practices for engineering and fabricating projects that meet and exceed expectations. Venue: Biedenharn Museum and Gardens 2006 Riverside Drive, Monroe Hours: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Phone: 318-387-5281 Mushroom Talk and Guided Walk Join Louisiana Master Naturalists Suzanne Laird and Kim Paxton to learn about some of the mushrooms in this area. The program will start with a presentation in the Visitor Center followed by a guided walk to look for mushrooms. Venue: Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge 480 Richland Pl Drive, Monroe Hours: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Phone: 318-387-1114 February 6 Movie Night at the Dixie: Community First, A Home for the Homeless NCLAC presents six independent films this year at the historic Dixie Center for the Arts in downtown Ruston. Unlike typical movie

screenings, this series gives audiences the opportunity to meet filmmakers, learn about the art of filmmaking with Q&A sessions after the films. Venue: Dixie Center for the Arts 212 N Vienna St Hours: 6:30PM Cost: $5 general admission $3 for students Phone: 318-255-1450 February 7 Jack Rabbit Slims Live at Ponchatoulas Jack Rabbit Slims will be rocking Downtown Ruston. Come join them for great food, and drink specials, and the area's best music! Venue: Ponchatoulas, 109 E Park Ave Hours: 9PM Cost: Free to attend Phone: 318-255-2031 Friday Night Magic at Alvar & Hurrik's Join in on the fun of Friday Night Magic Pioneer style at Alvar & Hurrik's! Venue: Alvar & Hurrik's 113 W Mississippi Ave Hours: 7PM Cost: $5 to play Phone: 318-255-2031 February 8 3rd Annual Bingo on the Delta Catholic Charities of North Louisiana’s Bingo on the Delta is a casual, fun-filled event and will feature bingo games called by local priests and deacons, a delicious dinner, prizes for each bingo game, and a silent auction, all to benefit CCNLA’s Monroe office and outreach. Venue: West Monroe Convention Center, 901 Ridge Ave., West Monroe Hours: 6PM-9PM February 7 - 9 Big Creek Trade Days Big Creek Trade Days are held monthly on the weekend before the second Monday with over 100 indoor and outdoor vendors, food trucks, and fun for all ages. Load up the family and head on out! Venue: Big Creek Trade Days Grounds 327 California Plant Rd, Dubach Hours: 9AM-5PM Friday; 11AM-9PM Saturday; 10AM-4PM Sunday

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Cost: $5 per vehicle Phone: 318-680-1304 February 8 Mardi Gras Madness with Krewe de Riviere Celebrate Mardi Gras with the Krewe de Riviere! Enjoy food trucks, activities and more to help you get in the Mardi Gras spirit! Venue: RiverMarket 316 South Grand, Monroe Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Phone: 318-807-9985 Little Miss Mardi Gras Join the Origin Bank RiverMarket for the first ever Little Miss Mardi Gras Pageant! There will be six different age divisions, including the new teen division for ages 13-15. Check in begins at 12:30 PM and the pageant starts at 1:30 PM. The deadline to register is January 31st. Venue: Downtown Riverwalk 316 South Grand, Monroe Hours: 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM Cost: $40 to register Krewe de Riviere Mardi Gras Parade Get ready to experience the roaring 20's parade style! Enjoy a traditional New Orleans feel with floats, walking groups, riding groups, plenty of goodies and a roaring 20’s theme. The Krewe De Riviere parade will be February 8th at 5 p.m. starting at West Monroe High School and ending around the Ouachita Parish Courthouse. Venue: West Monroe High School 201 Riggs St, West Monroe Hours: 5:00 PM Krewe de Rivière Ball - The Roaring 20’s Join the Krewe De Rivière for the Krewe de Rivière Ball - The Roaring 20’s! The parade will roll to the Monroe Civic Center where the Ball will begin. Joe Lastie and the New Orleans Sound will be entertaining! Formal dress. Venue: Monroe Civic Center 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway Hours: 6:30 PM Cost: $75 for a single table ticket. $25 general admission Phone: 318-329-2225

3rd Annual Bingo on the Delta Mark your calendars! Coming up Saturday, February 8th, is Catholic Charities of North Louisiana’s Bingo on the Delta. This casual, fun-filled event will feature bingo games called by local priests and deacons, a delicious dinner, prizes for each bingo game, and a silent auction, all to benefit CCNLA’s Monroe office and outreach. Venue: West Monroe Convention Center, 901 Ridge Avenue, West Monroe Hours: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Phone: 318-396-5000 February 13 Beer & Bards Beer & Bards takes place on the 2nd Thursday of every month at Enoch’s Irish Cafe and Pub. It begins at roughly 7:00pm and lasts anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half. They ask for readers from all walks of life whether they be students, teachers, published authors, or just the casual connoisseur of short fiction and/or poetry from within the community, the state, or anywhere in the world! Anyone with questions or who wishes to read can reach Jack Heflin, ULM English Professor and Beer & Bards Host, by either sending a message on the Beer & Bards Facebook page or contacting him directly at heflin@ulm.edu. Venue: Enoch's Irish Pub 507 Louisville Ave, Monroe Hours: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Phone: 318-388-3662 February 15 POL NELA Regional Competition Poetry Out Loud is a poetry recitation competition for grades 9-12 and is sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts. Local area schools and children's organizations will hold their own competitions and may send up to three students to participate in the regional competition at the Strauss Youth Academy for the Arts. Venue: Strauss Youth Academy for the Arts, 1300 1/2 Lamy Ln., Monroe Hours: 10:00AM - 1:00PM

Krewe of Janus Children's Parade The parade will be rolling through the mall the morning of February 15th with the Krewe of Janus' King, Queen and the Royal Court. Registration and Line up will begin near Dick’s Sporting Goods. The route will begin at FYE make its way towards JC Penny's, then around Center Court and back thru the food court ending in front of Raising Canes. This is a free family event. Parade entrants must bring their own throws such as beads, cups, candy and toys. Wagons, bikes, or small battery-operated vehicles are allowed. Venue: Pecanland Mall,Monroe Phone: 318-322-4635 14th Annual Krewe of PAWS Mardi Gras Pet Parade The 14th Annual Krewe of PAWS Mardi Gras Pet Parade will roll through Antique Alley in West Monroe, LA on February 15th. The theme is "The Magic of Furry Tales...and feathers & scales!" The parade isn't just for dogs...if you have other furry pets or those with feathers or scales, they are welcome to be a part too! Venue: Antique Alley 100-400 blocks of Trenton Street, West Monroe Hours: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Jester Jog 5K The most festive 5K of the year! Run a portion of the Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade route and back through downtown West Monroe in your Mardi Gras-themed outfits. Finisher beads for everyone as well as age/gender metals. Participants will gather in Alley Park located on the corner of Trenton and Natchitoches Street. The race begins at 3:00 PM Venue: Alley Park 200 Natchitoches, West Monroe Hours: 3:00 PM 37th Annual Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade Don't miss out on the 37th Annual Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade on Feb. 15th! Venue: Krewe of Janus Float Den 901 Louisville Avenue, Monroe Hours: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Cost: Free Phone: 318-338-3172 Krewe of Allegro Mardi Gras Ball Take part in this fine evening out with dinner, dancing, and celebrating the arts culture of the area at the Krewe of Allegro Mardi Gras Ball! Party with the Krewe of Allegro royal court,

dance the night away with music from the Lisa Spann & Company, enjoy Louisiana-inspired cuisine, and a cash bar. Proceeds from the night benefit the historic Dixie Theatre and the North Central Louisiana Arts Council. Venue: Ruston Civic Center, 401 N Trenton St Hours: 6PM-11PM Cost: $65 Phone: 318-255-2031 Cupid's Dash Barrel Race Grab your cowboy boots and mark it on your calendar that has all the pretty horse pictures! The North Louisiana Exhibition Center is hosting a race to raise money for a noble cause, so come out and see some majestic horses and skilled riders compete for a worthy cause! Venue: North Louisiana Exhibition Center, 165 Fairgrounds Rd Hours: 1PM Phone: 318-255-2031 Joe Haydel Band Live at Ponchatoulas Join Ponchatoulas in welcoming back a local favorite musician, Joe Haydel. Grab a drinking buddy and hit the town while enjoying the beautiful atmosphere of Downtown Ruston. Venue: Ponchatoulas, 109 E Park Ave Hours: 10PM Cost: Free to attend Phone: 318-255-2031 February 20 Winnie Brave Southwest Tour Winnie Brave is hitting the road through the American Southwest for their annual winter tour. Hear them live at the Flying Tiger Brewery on February 20th. Venue: Flying Tiger Brewery 506 North 2nd Street, Monroe Hours: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Phone: 318-547-1738 February 21-22 North Louisiana Quilters’ Guild Quilt Show Don’t miss out on viewing over 300 quilts at the 2020 Quilt Show. At the show will be vintage quilts, demonstrations, vendors, door prizes and more. Hours: Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday - 9am - 4 pm Venue: Ruston Civic Center, Ruston Cost: $7 per person, Children under 8 and Seniors over 80 free February 21 West Monroe Pen & Sort Don't miss out on Team Penning & Ranch Sorting at the West Monroe

Pen & Sort. Venue: Ike Hamilton Expo Center Arena 501 Mane Street, West Monroe Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Phone: 318-325-9160 February 22 Ruston Mardi Gras Parade & Festival Junior Auxiliary of Ruston presents "Roarin' Twenties" 2020 Mardi Gras Parade & Festival. This family-friendly Mardi Gras celebration will kick off downtown in Railroad Park starting at 11AM with food trucks, live music from Caravan, local vendors, activities for the family, and more. The parade will begin promptly at 6PM. Locals and visitors alike will be mesmerized by all of the floats, and all are welcome to join in on the fun of this festive event! Venue: Railroad Park, 101 E Park Ave Hours: 11AM – 10PM Cost: Free to attend Phone: 318-255-2031 Victor Abendaro Live at El Toro's Back Bar On his musical trip from Texas to Pittsburgh, Victor Abendaro is making a pit stop at El Toro's Back Bar where he will be playing for your listening pleasure with the talented Monty Russell. Venue: El Toro's Back Bar 2803 S Service Rd W Hours: 8PM – 11PM Phone: 318-255-2031 February 27 57th Annual Juried Competition The Masur Museum of Art’s Annual Juried Competition showcases contemporary artists throughout the United States of America working in any medium. Over $3,000 in prizes is awarded to artists every year. Venue: Masur Museum of Art, 1400 S.Grand St., Monroe Hours: 9AM – 5PM February 28 Opening Reception: 57th Annual Juried Competition The Masur Museum of Art’s Annual Juried Competition showcases contemporary artists throughout the United States of America working in any medium. Over $3,000 in prizes is awarded to artists every year. This year's juror is Allison Glenn, Associate Curator of Contemporary Art at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (Bentonville, AR). Ms. Glenn will be giving a Juror's Talk at 6pm and announcing the exhibition prize

winners. Venue: Masur Museum 1400 South Grand, Monroe Hours: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Phone: 318-329-2237 January 30 - Febraury 2, February 7- 8 Baskerville - A Sherlock Holmes Mystery Get your deerstalker cap on - the play's afoot! From the award-winning mastermind of mayhem, Ken Ludwig (Lend Me a Tenor), comes a fast-paced comedy about everyone's favorite detective solving his most notorious case. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson must crack the mystery of "The Hound of the Baskervilles" before a family curse dooms its newest heir. Join the fun and see how far elementary the truth can be at Strauss Theatre Center! Venue: Strauss Theatre Center 1300 Lamy Lane, Monroe Hours: 7:00 PM except Sunday 2:00 PM Cost: $30 for adults/$15 for Students Phone: 318-323-6681 February 1,8, 15, 22, 29 Ruston Farmers Market Shop, eat, and support locals at the Ruston Farmers Market! Choose from a wide selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, honey, jams, salsa, and other locally produced goods. Venue: Ruston Farmers Market, 220 E Mississippi Ave Hours: 9AM – 1PM Cost: Free to attend Phone: 318-957-1305 February 3, 10, 17, 24 Monday Movie Night Join in a Lincoln Parish Library tradition of family movie night! Venue: Lincoln Parish Library 910 North Trenton St Hours: 6PM – 8PM Cost: Free Phone: 318-513-5510

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