BayouLife Magazine March 25

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8 / BASIL SMASH COCKTAIL

Green is the theme for this month’s drink and this Basil Smash cocktail hits the mark. With its vibrant hue and refreshing blend of basil, gin, lemon and simple syrup, it’s the perfect signature drink for March.

20 / POLISH PERFECT

Searching for the perfect nail polish colors this spring? We’ve rounded up some of our favorite shades to inspire your next manicure!

30 / BAYOU ARTIST

BayouArtist Pat Howard didn’t pick up a paintbrush until she moved to the Bayou State. After a hiatus, Howard has returned to the canvas.

48 / SPRING FLORALS

Vee’s Flowers designed a beautiful floral arrangement featuring hydrangeas, peonies, deep purple roses, quince, fringe tulips, hypericum berries, and kale.

54 / A SEASONAL TRANSITION

As winter fades and spring approaches, it’s the perfect time to refresh your indoor plants and give your space a seasonal uplift.

61 / SPINACH AND POTATO SOUP

92 / BAYOU ICON

Because of her remarkable work helping others to learn to harness economic development for their own businesses, and because of her unselfish support of this region and beyond, Christine Wong Rambo is our March BayouIcon.

APRIL 2018

Looking for an inspired dish for St. Patrick’s Day? This garlicky spinach and potato soup’s savory flavors are a perfect way to enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients.

62 / WOMEN’S SYMPOSIUM

The ULM Women’s Symposium annually highlights women from across Northeast Louisiana for their individual achievements, professional and personal.

78 / BAYOU EATS

In Heard Freighthouse Food Park in Ruston the small, bright white trailer stands out by way of its vermillion red logo featuring the eatery’s name—Là Authentic Chinese Food.

108 / ATTORNEY DIRECTORY

The BayouLife Attorney Directory is your source for obtaining current information for attorneys licensed to practice in Louisiana.

116 / BAYOU FASHION

Fashion Fusion 2025 will mark 14 years of celebrating a community coming together for cancer patients right here in our area. All proceeds benefit the Cancer Foundation League of Northeast Louisiana which provides medical assistance and supplies to local patients and families suffering from this dreadful disease. Join us on March 8, 2025 at the Monroe Civic Center for this fashionable event.

Spring is here, or is it? I know that I’m looking forward to warmer weather. My kids were really hoping for a snow day, but after being out for an extra two days – it was time for them to be back at school. We’ll be braving the colder temps this weekend while one kid is playing in a travel soccer tournament and the other kid is in a softball tournament. This seems to be the trajectory of my life – work, eat, kids’ extracurriculars and sleep (sometimes). I wouldn’t trade it for the world!

I’m lucky to work every day with a team of talented women who are incredibly talented and smart. I had two very strong grandmothers, and a mom who always pushed me to be my best. A few years ago I was asked to speak at the Women’s Symposium and it really opened my eyes to how many women leaders we have in this community. I was surrounded by intelligent, bold women that had a passion for their families, careers and life – it was inspiring. In this month’s issue, we highlight five of the 2025 panelists and why they were chosen as leaders in their respective fields. See this article on 62.

Highlighting strong women is a theme in this month’s issue. Taking our BayouIcon spot is Christine Wong Rambo. Christine was the first in her immediate family to go to college. Today, she is a very successful business owner (she’s President/Owner of Upsize Marketing Strategies) and a vital part of our community. Read her article on page 92.

One of our favorite events of the year is back again! On March 8th DBK Dance and Performing Arts, along with The Cancer Foundation League presents Fashion Fusion: Where Dance Meets Design 2025. To capture this year’s theme, In The Air Tonight, we took

over Biedenharn Museum and Gardens with models Jada George and Chevy Navarro. Kelly Moore Clark was able to capture this whimsical shoot and edit it to truly capture the essence of this year’s event. Fashion Fusion 2025 will mark 14 years of celebrating a community coming together for cancer patients right here in our area. All proceeds benefit the Cancer Foundation League of Northeast Louisiana which provides medical assistance and supplies to local patients and families suffering from this dreadful disease. See this shoot on pages 116-125.

This month we’ve published our sixth annual Attorney Directory, your source for obtaining current information for attorneys licensed to practice in Louisiana. From personal injury attorneys to those specializing in family law, this list is comprised of some of the best in the industry. See this on pages 108-14.

We hope you enjoy reading this issue of BayouLife. As always, please remember to support locally-owned businesses! And a huge thank you to all of the businesses that support BayouLife – we wouldn’t be able to produce our magazine without you.

Cassie

PUBLISHER & OWNER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com

COPY EDITOR Cindy Foust

GENERAL MANAGER Toni Navarro toni@bayoulifemag.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Nathan Coker nathan@bayoulifemag.com

ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVES

Katelyn McAllister katelyn@bayoulifemag.com

Lindsay Adams lindsay@bayoulifemag.com

ART DIRECTOR Kate Ashley

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Kelly Moore Clark

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Darian Atkins

Kenny Covington

Shannon Dahlum

Cindy Gist Foust

Starla Gatson

Paul Lipe

Erin Love

Meredith McKinnie

Georgiann Potts

Delia Simpson

Beatrice A. Tatem

Guy Miller

Phil Trahan

Vanelis Rivera

Joyce Sims

David Scott, MD

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kelly Moore Clark

Camryn Price Thompson

ON THE COVER

Jada George for Fashion Fusion 2025

Kelly Moore Clark

BayouLife Magazine is published and distributed by Redbird Publishing, LLC. Postal subscriptions ($30) can be ordered online at www.bayoulifemag.com. BayouLife Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, manuscripts, or other materials. Opinion columns do not represent the views of the publisher. Reproduction of contents without express written permission is prohibited.

BAYOU COCKTAIL

Basil Smash Cocktail

Green is the theme for this month’s drink and this Basil Smash cocktail hits the mark. With its vibrant hue and refreshing blend of basil, gin, lemon and simple syrup, it’s the perfect signature drink for March.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

Fresh Basil

2 oz Gin

1 oz fresh squeezed lemon juice

1 oz Simple syrup

Muddle around 10 basil leaves and add to a shaker. Combine 2 ounces of gin, 1 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 ounce of simple syrup and ice. Shake until well combined. Strain into a glass filed with ice and garnish with lemon wheel and fresh basil leaves.

Styled by KATE ASHLEY

Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

What is the Difference Between a House and a Home?

by ERIN SHARPLIN LOVE | erinlove@panachebyerin.com

When you walk through the door of your house, do you feel relaxed, or do you feel stressed? Obviously everyone should feel happy and relaxed. Your home should be the place you rest and restore yourself. If it is not your refuge, maybe you should think about the difference between having a “house” and a “home.”

Here is a hint: Every time you are in your home, you should be stimulating your five senses of sight, smell, taste, hearing, and touch to make your house really feel like home. For instance, have you ever been in a WilliamsSonoma store? How did you feel? What did you smell? Did you taste any samples? Were all kinds of beautiful products in your line of sight? Did you hear upbeat or relaxing music playing at the time? Did you roam through the store touching everything that caught your eye? I bet the answer to all these questions is a resounding “yes!” Now, I am not suggesting that you should make your house smell and look like a WilliamsSonoma store (unless that is what makes you happy). What I am suggesting is that you take a cue from them and work to engage all of your senses.

SCENT – Scent is the most important because it is the first thing you notice when you walk through the door. How does the atmosphere smell? Is it fresh and clean or dingy and dusty? Or, maybe it smells like the scent of apple cider or left-over cooking from the night before? Scents evoke comfort and relaxation, so make sure to include your favorites to make your house feel like home. You can do this with

candles, essential oils, plug-ins and more. *TipThe first thing I do after cooking dinner is run my essential oil diffuser. It removes any smell from cooking, so when I awake the next morning the room smells fresh and clean.

SIGHT – Obviously, this is also one of the most important of your “home”senses. if your space is cluttered and disorganized, you will feel tense and frustrated. The goal is to have only the items you love and use in your home, so start now to get rid of anything that causes you stress or anxiety. Try this –The next time you walk in the door after a long day,take note of what you notice and how it makes you feel. Then work to change that one area. Continue this process until the next time you come home, you feel happiness, gratitude, and relaxation. *Tip – Style your home, especially the area in which you enter, with something that makes you happy. For example, I have a candle and a potted plant on my entrance table at the moment.

HEARING – What do you hear upon entering your home? This may seem like an odd question to ask, but really think about it. Most of you will probably say “silence,” especially if you are typically the first one home in the evening, but your house is never completely silent. Instead, we grow accustomed to the sounds in our home and begin to ignore them or not notice them at all. Today, I want you to notice them. For instance, maybe you have a pet, and the first thing you hear is barking to welcome you home. Or, perhaps you hear the air conditioner humming. Maybe you hear the clink, clink of your sink dripping. All the sounds you hear consciously or subconsciously have an affect on your mood. For instance, if you hear the clink of

your dripping sink, it is alerting you of an issue that needs repairing. Get it repaired! To put it another way, maybe you would love to hear the welcoming bark of a dog upon arriving home but haven’t taken the leap. Take the leap! Make your house a home!

TOUCH – What do you touch as you enter your home? Is it a stuck or jammed door that causes aggravation even before you enter? Fix it! When you step inside, are you welcomed with the soft touch of a decorative rug or the clink of hard tile? Choose the one that makes you feel the best. You should also be surrounding yourself with decorative accents, such as pillows, blankets, and cushions that have different textures and patterns you are attracted to. Even the soft fur of a kitty cat can make your house feel like a home. What can you add to your home today?

TASTE – This final sense is all about the food and drink that you have at home. Take time to savor your favorite foods and indulge when you can. Now, I am not saying that you should blow your diet, but I am saying that you should treat yourself as often as you can! Have your favorite wine while enjoying a hot bath. Have a second piece of chocolate after dinner. Savor a warm plate of pasta if it is your favorite food. Maybe it reminds you of your grandparents and that is exactly what makes a house feel like a home. And don’t forget to try new things, too! Expand your taste buds with new recipes weekly!

Whether you have lived in your home for years or you just moved in, you can establish routines and rituals that welcome you home day in and day out. All it takes is letting your five senses lead the way.

Accelerate Action

Women Moving Society Ahead, Upward and Forward

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

AS WE ENTER THE MONTH OF MARCH, THE BEGINNING of spring, the season in which nature seems to pop into life with an emergence that says, “I am here blooming with brilliance, beauty, and powerful differences… embrace me.” The month of March is indeed a fitting time to recognize the array of vast accomplishments and contributions of women. This year’s theme “Moving Forward Together… Women Educating and Inspiring Generations” celebrates the collective strength and influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership. The month of March also houses International Women’s Day. The theme this year is “#Accelerate Action” and is dedicated to celebrating and advancing women’s equality around the world. Women with united force, strength, and insight have always fueled society moving it ahead, onward and upward. This article is inspired by the thoughts, reactions and actions of various women who have entered my personal as well as professional life, particularly in the last year. They have provided shoulders for other women to stand on and have modeled empowered women in the world in which they each live. Since the new year there has been much discussion, especially in the mental health world about stress, anxiety, high functioning depression due to post-election uncertainty and the impact it has had on women. I am mindful that my perception of things is not the reality for all. However, as a woman psychologist in practice, I am deeply concerned by societal decisions and actions that have been put into place resulting in the manifestation of increased anxiety, stress, tension and depression among women. As a result, I am purposeful about focusing on the needs and values of the individual as we navigate what seems to be tense times. This year I have written with urgency for women to be protective of their mental and physical health, to be cognizant of their well-being and needs, to guard their civil rights and to accelerate action. Recently, I was in a highly spirited conversation with a group of women processing the celebration of Women’s History Month.

They commented “Living is hard these days and oh yeah, it’s expensive to live, when will it become easier, how do I, as a woman, heal from post-election results?

Women have always powered the world and when they enter various spaces and places, they bring energy to the room. I join those who believe this is not the time to shut down diversity equity and inclusion initiatives (DEI) and encourage society to take the time to understand DEI, its’ origin and purpose. Women have demonstrated we cannot live only in the moment but for the future. For decades women have been groundbreakers, opening doors for others to insure all our civil liberties are met. Despite mistruths, distorted rhetoric and false accusations women have overcome

challenges, united communities against divisive actions and forged ahead to move upward and forward. The contributions of women have been and continue to be intricately woven into the fabric of our local communities, our country and the world.

On a personal note, this article is about accountability, reliability, advocacy, resilience, fortitude, pride and gratitude for women for opening America. I began formulating my thoughts for this article at the start of the year. I observed an increased desire for mental health services because there is so much tension in the world. Whereas, every year there is a slump during the month of January known as the post-holiday blues attributed to broken resolutions, pressures of the new year, financial strain, unpredictable weather conditions, low motivation, and a drop in serotonin levels...this year it seems to be greater. Then just in time there is February, the month of love, when the nation sets aside time to celebrate various types of love. During rollbacks, tariffs, mass layoffs, inflation, talks of eliminating vaccines, risky world-wide relationships, threats to our dayto-day survival due to the ripping apart of social service and educational programs, some question where the love for humanity is. Many people, including yours truly, were reminded in this time of turmoil the importance of practicing self-love.

While writing this article, I am playing music as I find music to be healing. I have chosen “This Girl is On Fire” by Alicia Keys, I am selective about who I listen to and what they are singing. Ms. Keys founded her music on the power of self-sufficient women and was inspired by struggles in her personal life. This song encourages women worldwide to stay strong regardless of their circumstances and to never stop being their individual selves.

As a woman with attributes that I have grown over the years to be proud of, despite the struggles that have come with having these attributes, I admit I am fortified by the influence of strong women, pillars in my life who have taking the time to mentor, lead and educate me. Many women have weathered the storms of life. On a side note it was a misty day to take pictures to accompany this article. We selected this day based on the expectation that it was going to be sunny and unseasonable warm. To our disappointment it began to drizzle; the weather forecast was wrong. We quickly went to a nearby church and decided to take pictures by pillars. The temperamental state of the weather ironically matched the climate in the nation...uncertain and unpredictable. Symbolically this day served as a segway…how often have women creatively weathered storms to get the job done. This March may society move ahead, forward, and upward, hopefully with accelerated action.

A Celebration of Irish Whiskey

With Does Eat Place & Beef and Barrel

MARCH BRINGS A UNIQUE EXCITEMENT—THE PROMISE of spring, the passion of March Madness, and the joy of St. Patrick’s Day. It’s a time when gatherings come alive with laughter, friendly rivalries, and unforgettable flavors. Whether you’re toasting Irish heritage or cheering on your team, the combination of exceptional whiskeys and Cajun bites sets the stage for a season to savor.

Four Walls Whiskey was created by the stars of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia—Rob McElhenney, Charlie Day, and Glenn Howerton—as a heartfelt tribute to the bars where friendships and memories are made. The project was born from their love for the bar culture portrayed in their show and their desire to support the hospitality industry. More than a celebrity brand, Four Walls represents community and camaraderie, celebrating the stories and laughter shared across the bar counter.

Crafted from a blend of Irish and American rye whiskies, Four Walls greets the nose with rich caramel, toasted oak, and subtle vanilla notes. On the palate, it delivers velvety butterscotch, warming spices, and a smooth, lingering finish that evokes the nostalgia of a cozy, familiar bar.

Four Walls Irish Gold: 2 oz Four Walls Whiskey, 1 oz peach schnapps, 2 oz ginger ale, and lemon wedge garnish. Combine over ice and garnish with lemon for a crisp, bright cocktail.

73 Distilling Irish Channel Whiskey pays homage to New Orleans’ Irish heritage, rooted in the Irish Channel neighborhood established by 19th-century Irish immigrants. 73 Distilling combines traditional Irish whiskey-making with Southern craftsmanship, celebrating NOLA’s multicultural legacy.

This whiskey presents honey and soft citrus on the nose, while creamy vanilla and gentle oak create a smooth, mellow sip—a true expression of New Orleans’ warmth and hospitality.

Irish Channel Mule: 2 oz 73 Distilling Irish Channel Whiskey, 4 oz ginger beer, and a fresh lime wedge. Serve over ice with lime for a zesty, game-day refresher.

Jameson Triple Triple is a showcase of Irish tradition and innovative aging techniques. The triple distillation process, a hallmark of Jameson, ensures signature smoothness, while aging in bourbon, sherry, and Malaga casks adds depth and complexity. The bourbon casks lend vanilla sweetness, the sherry casks infuse rich dried fruits, and the Malaga casks impart a unique hint of citrus and almonds. On the nose, it offers sweet citrus and subtle spice, leading to a palate rich in orchard fruits, caramel, and a lingering nutty finish.

Triple Citrus Highball: 2 oz Jameson Triple Triple, 4 oz soda water,

and orange twist garnish. Pour over ice, add soda, and finish with an orange twist for a bubbly delight.

Red Spot Irish Whiskey, a single pot still expression from the iconic Spot range with origins dating back to the 1800s, features a 15-year age statement, marking it as the oldest in the Spot lineup. Originally produced by Mitchell & Son, a family-owned wine and spirits merchant established in 1805, Red Spot was reintroduced in 2018 after a long hiatus, preserving its traditional maturation style. Aged in a trio of bourbon, sherry, and Marsala wine casks, it develops complexity at 46% ABV with non-chill filtration. The nose bursts with ripe plums, baked apple, and toasted oak. The palate delivers stewed fruits, clove, and sweet vanilla with layers of marzipan and peppery spice. Its velvety, long finish combines oak warmth with lingering fruit and spice, creating a balanced and sophisticated sip.

Lab Rosé is a crisp, fruit-forward wine with aromas of strawberry and citrus blossoms. On the palate, it offers flavors of fresh berries, hints of melon, and a zesty finish—perfect for spring gatherings. Meanwhile, the Lab Red Blend, presented in a convenient 3L box, is a bold, smooth wine with notes of ripe blackberries, plums, and a touch of spice, supported by soft tannins for a velvety finish—ideal for entertaining large groups.

Best Stop, a Louisiana institution, began as a small grocery in Scott, Louisiana—the heart of Cajun country. Founded by the Guidry family in 1986, it has become legendary for its boudin and sausages, made from family recipes passed down through generations. Known for their perfect blend of pork, rice, and Cajun spices, Best Stop boudin has become a staple for gatherings and game days. This game day try out any of the Cajun Grillers. These are the classic Best Stop products in smaller sizes so that they can be easily spread around a group. You could also try out our Boudin Balls made with their boudin for an incredible appetizer.

As March brings us St. Patrick’s Day revelry and March Madness excitement, there’s no better time to gather with friends and savor the rich heritage behind these beloved brands. From the warm camaraderie of Four Walls, the New Orleans pride of 73 Distilling, and the layered tradition of Jameson Triple Triple, to the bold flavors of Best Stop’s Cajun delicacies—each offers a unique story in every sip and bite. So, raise your glass, fire up the grill, and celebrate the joy of sharing good company, great flavors, and cherished traditions. As always thank you for letting us be your Spirit’s Guides here at Beef & Barrel!

A Match Made In Heaven

Material Things and The Haberdashery

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS, THE yin and the yang, A Tale of Two Citieshowever you want to phrase it-that’s what I think of when I think about Material Things and The Haberdashery.

This month I want to introduce you to the idea of mixing the art form of quilts and all forms of handwork into your liveswhether it be for decorative reasons, luxury fashion staples or simply what quilts are meant to be-a source of warmth! March is National Quilting Month and we have the new Husqvarna Viking 97Q machine that is perfect for all of your sewing needs as well as so many other machines to choose from.

There has been a huge resurgence of all forms of handwork the past few years and, truthfully it could be because of the forced nesting at home that we all had to endure during the pandemic and, has just expanded since then. But, whatever the reason, I am embracing it again.

In a recent article, Marianne Fons was interviewed about rapper A$AP Rocky arriving at The Met Gala wrapped in a quilt. She said the quilting trend reemerges “every 30 years or so” adding “Adolfo did it in the late ‘60s, Ralph Lauren did it in the ‘80s, and then Calvin Klein and designers like Emily Bode started it up again around 2017.” You can literally find this fashion trend in all of the high end designer collections right down to off the rack in your local stores like Target and Walmart.

I know you all can remember back in the ‘60s and ‘70s when fashion designer Gloria Vanderbilt was covering her home in quilts and I mean “covering.” The walls, the floors,

the ceilings and everything in between were lacquered with pieces of Americana! She was quoted as saying “Isn’t it extraordinary how something as simple as quilts from America suddenly begin to relate to Russia and the East to become exotic and mysterious when used in a certain way.” Look it up when you have a chance-there are numerous articles about the subject online. The pictures of her home, especially her bedroom are quite inspirational.

Kiva Motnyk was interviewed by The Zoe Report about this resurgence and believes that the quilt trend has been influenced by a movement towards more intentional buying. “I think there’s been a growing awareness of where and how we spend our money, and it tends to shift towards investing in pieces that are intentionally well-made and have longevity,” she explains. “People want to support small brands they believe in. Quilts inherently embody these values-they are created through traditional handwork, made from up cycled fabric scraps and meant to be passed down to future generations.”

The Spring Summer 2025 Maison Valentino’s that debuted at Paris Couture Week was like no other that I have ever seen. It was the first for Italian designer Alessandro Michele. There is an excellent article on Harpers Bazaar website right now. His designs are truly magical…you think you have been transported down the rabbit hole, so to speak. His usage of quilting, needlepoint and crochet is quite amazing to see. I realize that his pieces are very “over the top” but, even if you look at these works of art and get a small amount of inspiration

then his designs have accomplished something.

All of that being said, come by the shop and take a look at all that my own “A Tale of Two Cities” has to offer. The Haberdashery side has just about anything you need to get you started in any of the handcraft categories-quilting, embroidery, needlepoint, appliqué and so much more. We are also a Husqvarna Viking sewing and embroidery machine dealer, as well as having our own in house service department for you after you purchase your machine. While on the Material Things side, which many of you are already familiar with, we have everything from gifts, lighting, a children’s area, furniture including sofas and chairs, our own “keeping” spot that has everything from barware to food items. So, please remember to come by and check us out for any and all of your needs whether they be for gifting, a little refresh in your home or learning a new craft.

I really just wanted to use this month’s article to talk about the importance of savoring our past and meshing it into today and into the future. The simple act of treasuring the things that you, your loved one or someone that you’ve never known have crafted by hand is an endearing and worthy quality to have. Now, mind you, I realize that not everyone is going to embrace this resurgence but, I hope that this article will help in understanding it and maybe encourage you to give it a chance even if it’s in a small way.

XOXO - Joyce

Colorectal Cancer Awareness

Knowing Your Risk For Colorectal Cancer

BY DAVID SCOTT, MD

MARCH IS COLORECTAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States, and it ranks second for cancer-related deaths in the nation. Understanding its risk factors, recognizing early symptoms and adhering to screening guidelines are crucial steps in prevention and early detection. Risk Factors to Consider

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer. Some are beyond our control, while others are linked to lifestyle choices that can be modified for better health outcomes.

• Age: The risk of colorectal cancer increases significantly after the age of 50. However, recent data shows a rise in cases among younger adults. The reasons behind this trend are still being studied, but this data underscores the importance of getting annual checkups regardless of age.

• Family History and Genetics: A family history of colorectal cancer (particularly in a first-degree relative of parent, sibling or child) doubles individual risk. Inherited genetic mutations (such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis) also increase susceptibility. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or genetic syndromes, discuss earlier and more frequent screenings with your primary care physician or colorectal specialist.

• Dietary Habits: Consuming a diet high in red meat or processed meat has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables and whole-grains are associated with a lower risk. Reducing red meat intake and increasing fiber consumption can play a significant role in prevention.

• Lifestyle Factors: A sedentary lifestyle, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption contribute to a heightened risk of colorectal cancer. Regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco products and moderating alcohol intake can significantly reduce this risk.

• Chronic Health Conditions: Individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, face a higher risk due to chronic inflammation of the colon. Also, having Type 2 diabetes has been linked to an increased likelihood of developing colorectal cancer. Symptoms To Watch For

Early-stage colorectal cancer often presents no symptoms, which makes regular screening even more critical. As the disease progresses, the following symptoms may occur.

• Changes in Bowel Habits: Persistent diarrhea, constipation or a change in the consistency of stool can indicate colorectal cancer. Experiencing a feeling that the bowel doesn’t completely empty can also be a warning sign.

• Blood in Stool: Noticing bright red or very dark blood in the stool should prompt an immediate visit to a healthcare provider. Blood may also be present in the stool without visible signs, which is why some screening tests focus on detecting hidden blood.

• Unexplained Weight Loss: A sudden drop in weight without any change in diet or physical activity could signal an underlying health issue, including colorectal cancer.

• Fatigue and Weakness: Persistent tiredness or a feeling of weakness that does not improve with rest may be related to anemia caused by blood loss from colorectal cancer.

• Abdominal Discomfort: Cramps, bloating, gas pain or a feeling of fullness even after eating a small meal are potential symptoms. If these issues persist, they should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

If you experience any of those symptoms, consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible. While these symptoms can be related to other, less serious conditions, early evaluation is important.

The Importance Of Screening

Regular screening is vital, as it can detect precancerous polyps and earlystage cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that individuals at average risk begin screening at age 45. Those with higher risk factors (such as a family history or certain genetic syndromes) should consider earlier and more frequent screenings.

• Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is the most comprehensive screening tool, allowing for examination of the entire colon and removal of polyps during the procedure. It is typically recommended every 10 years for those at average risk.

• Stool-Based Tests: These tests check for blood or abnormal DNA in the stool. They are less invasive. Stool tests can be done at home, but they require more frequent testing than a colonoscopy (every one to three years). However, these tests should be avoided if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or colon polyps or if you have a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis).

• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: This procedure examines the lower part of the colon. It is usually recommended every five years, often combined with stool-based tests for a more comprehensive screening approach. Visit your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate screening strategy based on your risk profile.

Dr. David Scott is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients. Learn more about his expertise and how he can assist you at ochsnerlsuhs.org/ doctors/david-scott.

Polish Perfect

Searching for the perfect nail polish colors this spring? We’ve rounded up some of our favorite shades to inspire your next manicure!

SPRING SHADES:

Essie Blooming Friendships

OPI We Canyon Do Better

Essie Check Your Baggage

Essie Find Me An Oasis

OPI Self Made

OPI Grape Escape

Essie Pin Me Pink

Styled by KATE ASHLEY

Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

BAYOU STYLE

Alumni Spotlight

ULM Alum: Toni Bacon

TONI BACON’S ULM (THEN NLU) HISTORY GOES back to infancy, when her father, graduate student Steve Long, put her on a pallet in Brown Gym while he taught classes. Steve and her mom Jackie Adams, also a ULM student, lived in a garage apartment right off campus. Her father earned a Master’s in Education, becoming a teacher, coach, and eventually middle school principal in Olla, LA. As a small-town girl, Toni did a little bit of everything in high school and fell in love with the dance team, having taken ballet, tap, and jazz classes as a child. Toni wanted to continue her passion for dance with the ULM Warbonnets. Her family always cheered for the Warhawks and knew members of the 1987 National Championship Football Team. Even from Olla, Toni felt part of the ULM community, and stepping on ULM’s campus two years later, Toni knew she was part of something important.

Intent on becoming an attorney, Toni majored in journalism and minored in Criminal Justice. As a member of NLU 31 (now 31 Ambassadors), Toni hosted events for the Alumni Association. The eye-opening exposure to professional people in the community continues to impact Toni’s life. She built strong relationships with Don Weems (then Director of Alumni Affairs), Billy Laird (then Executive Director of the ULM Foundation), Patsy Rials (co-founder of PREP), and Rick Owens (Athletics and Intramurals). Toni lovingly remembers Don and Patsy as campus Mom and Dad figures, alongside Dr. Charles H. McDonald, who Toni said, “personified what ULM was all about - community and family.” Through NLU 31, PREP staff, and serving United Way campaigns, Toni learned what it meant to give back. Those service projects increased her awareness of her foremost role in the community as a citizen. Along with four years on the Warbonnets and Little Indians, Toni was elected to ULM’s Homecoming Court twice.

While studying for the LSAT post-graduation, Toni took a position with Central Bank. After meeting her husband Danny Bacon, the couple moved to St. Louis for Danny to attend chiropractic school, and Toni accepted another local bank job. Toni admits she could have gone to law school, but she found something special in banking. She craved increased levels of personal interaction and community investment that the banking world offered. Those community service lessons from ULM transcended into Toni’s

personal and professional life. Now, Toni is the Senior Vice President of Commercial Lending at Century Next Bank. Her career trajectory worked out exactly as it should have; she uses the tools learned at ULM daily.

Toni’s community work is still ULM-centric; she serves as the Chair of Development for the ULM Foundation. Hearing about the impact of various ULM programs is an honor and a privilege. She witnesses ULM alumni giving back to their alma maters, helping set up the next generation for success. Now a board member of United Way of NELA, Toni has continued her investment in the organization. She also teaches Sunday School and serves on church committees at First West.

In January 2024, Toni felt called to run as a representative for the Ouachita Parish Police Jury, District A. This wonderful opportunity allowed Toni to meet the people of her district. While knocking on doors, she heard citizens’ concerns firsthand. Though some days see no resolution, she loves the times she’s able to directly help people, strengthening her patience and empathy. Toni is blessed to work with incredible state legislators and a federal delegation who all care about our local communities.

Toni and Danny are the proud parents of daughter Conner and her husband Mac, both currently first-year medical students at LSU-New Orleans. Giving back to one’s region pays dividends. Our community having a four-year university, especially one with the “caliber of ULM,” Toni knows is an economic and cultural asset. “ULM is truly a partner for local communities and businesses. While it carries many torches, ULM brings a quality of life to our community that cannot be replaced.” Toni credits the professors in the classrooms for ULM’s programs having such a strong reputation. Our region is becoming the health science hub for NELA, the cornerstone being ULM. Toni Bacon is a testament to ULM’s impact and a promise of its future.

Excellence From the Beginning

Comprehensive, Expert Care for Moms and Babies at St. Francis Health

BRINGING A BABY INTO THE WORLD IS ONE OF LIFE’S MOST

joyful moments — but when complications arise, having expert care close to home makes all the difference. At St. Francis Health, families in Northeast Louisiana can expect the highest level of care for both moms and newborns to provide peace of mind during pregnancy, labor and delivery. Whether a mother experiences a high-risk pregnancy, requires emergency care or welcomes a baby needing extra support, St. Francis Health is uniquely equipped to provide compassionate, expert care at every stage.

The Region’s Only Level III NICU

For babies born prematurely or with serious health conditions, access to advanced neonatal care can be life changing. St. Francis Health is home to the only Level III NICU in Northeast Louisiana, meaning it can provide comprehensive, specialized care for infants born before 32 weeks’ gestation or those requiring complex medical attention after birth.

“Our mission is to provide the highest level of neonatal care while keeping families together; distance shouldn’t separate families,” says Marc de Soler, MD, neonatologist and medical director of the NICU. “We want parents to know that if their baby needs critical care, they don’t have to travel far away, keeping the mother and baby separated for weeks. Our goal is to keep the baby and the mother together. Most of the time, everything they need is right here.”

Led by Dr. de Soler and Carmen Payne, MD, the NICU team includes neonatal nurse practitioners, respiratory therapists, lactation consultants, social workers and a dedicated NICU transport team. Together, they provide round-the-clock care to ensure the best possible outcomes for the region’s most fragile newborns.

Most parents don’t anticipate needing NICU care, but for babies born prematurely or with medical conditions, this specialized support is vital. The St. Francis NICU is designed to mimic the womb, using advanced technology and monitoring systems that help babies grow and develop. Specially trained nurses and neonatologists adjust each baby’s environment — from temperature and humidity to feeding support — to provide the safest possible transition into the world.

And while technology is crucial, the expertise of the NICU team makes the biggest impact. At St. Francis, NICU nurses undergo several months of specialized training, ensuring they are fully prepared to care for fragile newborns.

Exceptional Maternity Care: Supporting Moms Every Step of the Way

At St. Francis Health, world-class care starts well before a baby

arrives. As a Level III OB hospital, St. Francis is equipped to handle highrisk pregnancies and complex deliveries, providing a seamless transition for babies who may require NICU care.

The Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinic provides specialized care for high-risk pregnancies, offering advanced monitoring and expertise for conditions such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, and multiple gestations.

For moms experiencing pregnancy-related emergencies, the Obstetric Emergency Department (OB-ED) at St. Francis is a vital resource. Staffed by specially trained nurse practitioners with support from OB-GYNs, the OB-ED provides 24/7 care for urgent pregnancy concerns, ensuring rapid intervention when it matters most.

Recognized for Excellence in Maternal and Infant Care

St. Francis Medical Center is committed to providing the safest, most advanced care for mothers and newborns. That commitment is recognized through two prestigious designations:

• Birth Ready Designation – Awarded by the Louisiana Perinatal Quality Collaborative (LaPQC), this accreditation reflects St. Francis’ dedication to patient safety, evidence-based practices, and continuous quality improvement for maternal and newborn care.

• GIFT Designation (Guided Infant Feeding Techniques) – Recognized by the Louisiana Department of Health, St. Francis ensures new mothers receive comprehensive lactation support, breastfeeding education and the highest quality infant feeding care.

Keeping Families Together with Comprehensive Newborn Care

While some newborns need the advanced support of the NICU, many families experience a healthy, routine delivery — and St. Francis Health is committed to providing the best possible start for every baby.

The Newborn Nursery is staffed with experienced pediatric providers who offer essential screenings, vaccinations and early interventions before babies go home. Lactation consultants are also available to assist new moms with breastfeeding support and education.

Why Families Choose St. Francis for Maternity and Newborn Care

For more than a century, St. Francis Health has been a trusted leader in caring for families in Northeast Louisiana. With the region’s highest level of OB and NICU care, expert providers and advanced technology, families can rest assured that they’re in the best hands.

From pregnancy through delivery and beyond, St. Francis Health is where Northeast Louisiana families can expect excellence.Learn more at stfran.com/nicu.

divine direction she’d been given, Howard signed up for a local painting class.

“I think it was God’s direction,” Howard says of her spiritual awakening and choice to start painting. “It was new to me, but I think God has worked in me through painting and brought a new awareness to life.”

HOWARD PAT

BayouArtist PAT HOWARD didn’t pick up a paintbrush until she moved to the Bayou State. After a hiatus, Howard has returned to the canvas.

article by STARLA GATSON photography by KELLY MOORE CLARK

Though many of her art industry peers recall childhood days filled with arts and crafts, Pat Howard cannot do the same. She grew up in a dysfunctional home, she says, where art wasn’t prioritized. “We were always told to go outside and play,” Howard remembers after revealing, “I can’t even remember coloring or drawing.”

By the time Howard was 13, she’d dropped out of seventh grade and traded afternoons playing outside for waitressing shifts. Eventually, she returned to the classroom to study business and landed a job at an engineering firm. There, she met her husband. The two married in 1968 and began building a life together complete with three children, plus four grands and two great-grands who joined the family later on.

The family’s life was in Oklahoma, Howard’s home state, until her husband’s job relocated him to Louisiana. When they arrived in the Bayou State, every Howard except for the family matriarch had something new to dive into. Her husband was settling into working in a new state, and her children were in school and needed her less. That left Howard with plenty of time on her hands and an eagerness to fill it.

That’s where art came in. Howard had no prior artistic experience. But a spiritual awakening she’d had inspired her to pick up a paintbrush. Heeding the

Howard remembers that, as her instructor walked her through various techniques, she offered her advice on how to accurately relay that information to the students she thought Howard would have one day. “That shocked me,” Howard says. “[She’d say], ‘When you teach.’ When I teach? Why would she say that to me? Apparently, she saw that I was going to continue with [art].”

The painting teacher’s assessment of Howard was spot-on. She would continue her art education — she enrolled at Northeast Louisiana University, now the University of Louisiana Monroe, intending to get a degree in painting. Not only that, but she would eventually find herself leading classes of blossoming artists at the Masur Museum for a short time.

“My love was not teaching,” she says. “I always stressed about any frustration the students might be feeling. I loved every minute of the painting process, even if I realized later that [the painting] wasn’t good. I couldn’t relate to their struggles.”

Howard didn’t need to teach to find success and fulfillment in the local art scene. She didn’t complete her degree — “With the family, the kids and all, it just got to be a bit much,” she says of her decision to leave two years into her degree program. However, she found ways to continue learning. One of these was by connecting with other local creatives, like portrait artist Becky Rich.

“A few years [after attending NLU], I met Becky, and we rented our first studio at Natchitoches One,” Howard remembers. “It was a wonderful, large space with great natural light. But when it rained, we had to place buckets around to catch the drips from the leaking roof. Later, we secured a better place on Trenton Street in Antique Alley, where we operated a working studio.”

Soon, other artists joined Howard and Rich, including Janet Anderson and Lacey Stinson. This community, plus the connections Howard made through her involvement with the Monroe Art Association and Ouachita River Arts Guild, filled the artist, wife, and mother’s cup. But still, she says, she needed a way to earn an income from painting, and, as she’d already learned, teaching wasn’t it.

“Because of financial pressure, I began painting ceramic backsplashes for people,” Howard remembers. “It was not for the love of painting, but just because I needed some money. I soon burned out.”

Howard’s backsplash-induced burnout led her to stop painting altogether. She sold her supplies and began searching for another outlet. That led her to the world of duplicate bridge. Howard was deeply intrigued by the card game, attending tournaments and eventually achieving her Life Master Award. It was a nice change of pace from the art world she’d become somewhat disillusioned by, she says. Plus, it was fun.

Howard says her bridge days continued

until her daughter announced her pregnancy. She decided she would take a brief pause from the game to help take care of her youngest granddaughter after her mother returned to work.

“That brief pause has lasted almost 14 years,” she says, laughing.

With bridge no longer a central part of her life, Howard had more time to not only spend with her grandchildren — two of them are talented artists themselves — but also to return to her own painting practice. She resumed making art in 2020, when she, like so many others, was forced to stay at home to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

“I want to be with other artists painting, critiquing, and helping each other,” she says.

“That’s what I’m missing. I don’t know if that’ll happen again, but as God opens doors, I plan to walk through them.”

“I [put Visqueen down] in the dining room — that was difficult for me because it’s a small space and I’m very messy — and started painting again,” Howard recalls, adding that she intended to dive back into the local art scene she had once been so heavily involved in. However, she discovered the art world she once knew no longer existed.

“I’d lost contact with all the artists I’d previously known,” she says. “There were no monthly meetings to attend, no newsletter coming in the mail [sharing art opportunities]. Now, social media had taken over, and I felt lost in a new world of online business.”

Howard admits navigating life as an artist in the digital age has been somewhat overwhelming at times: “It’s intimidating. It’s a new experience for me, and it’s not one that I’ve embraced easily.”

Fortunately, other art professionals in the area have graciously given Howard tips and encouragement on managing her social media profiles — she’s @pathoward_ artist on Instagram and Pat Howard, Artist on Facebook — and using them to promote her work. She’s learning how powerful a tool social media can be for an artist, but Howard admits she’s still not the biggest fan of it. She prefers in-person communication, and she longs for the strong camaraderie and relationships she used to share with local artists.

“I want to be with other artists painting, critiquing, and

helping each other,” she says. “That’s what I’m missing. I don’t know if that’ll happen again, but as God opens doors, I plan to walk through them.”

Howard doesn’t let the fact that the art world she is now part of is much different than the one in which she was once so deeply entrenched discourage her too much. Sure, she has had to lean into social media and search for community. But she still gets to do the thing she loves so dearly: paint. She does it every day except Shabbat, and she’s always learning new things and trying unfamiliar techniques. Her near-daily practice has left her with a pretty large body of work, some of which will be on display at her solo exhibition at the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council Gallery in April.

Howard will be showing both old and new works, some painted using techniques she learned from her first art instructor and others with techniques and styles she picked up from other artists’ work — “Any time I watch another artist or see their work, I’m inspired to try something different,” she shares.

Regardless of the painting technique — lately, she’s been into pointillism; it slows her down, she says — or the medium — oil paint is her favorite, she says — she uses, Howard always aims to emphasize the beauty in ordinary scenes and portray subjects accurately and truthfully as she works. Painting is a challenge, she says, but one she loves and has no intention of stopping.

“Tom Lake” by Ann Patchett

“Good marriages are never as interesting as bad affairs.”

It’s rare that I indulge books that I know my mother-in-law will love, but Ann Patchett’s new feel-good novel is definitely one of them. It’s technically a pandemic novel, but not in how you might think. Lara Nelson and her husband Joe operate a cherry orchard, and due to the shutdown, their 3 adult daughters are back home to help harvest. Oldest Emily is set to inherit the family farm, while middle daughter Maisie is training to be a veterinarian. Youngest Nell is an aspiring actress, longing for opportunities her mother once had.

As a teenager, Lara is cast as Emily Gibbs in the local production of Our Town, a 3-act play set in imagined Grover’s Corner, New Hampshire. Though not an aspiring actress, Lara is perfect for the part and receives critical acclaim for her performance. After a brief stint in Hollywood, Lara joins a small summer production in Tom Lake in northern Michigan, where she meets and falls for Peter Duke who played her father in Our Town. As Duke goes on to dominate Hollywood, winning Oscars for his performances, Lara settles down with Joe at his family’s apple orchard.

choosing to live a simple life on the farm. Patchett’s novel explores storytelling and generational legacy, alongside the appeals of simple domesticity. While painting rich, vivid scenery, Patchett fashions deep-feeling characters who seek to understand the nuances of life, the choices that determine our futures, and the paths not taken. She writes, “We clump together in our sorrow. In joy we may wander off in our separate directions, but in sorrow we prefer to hold hands.”

The novel is told in alternating chapters that focus on Lara’s time in Tom Lake and the Nelson family harvest. The daughters are interested in their mother’s history with the celebrity and perplexed by her

One word to describe Patchett’s work is warm, as indulging her novel is akin to cozying up with a woven blanket. While it might be tempting to describe the novel as wholesome, and it is, Patchett does not shy away from the often desperate and tragic circumstances that accompany young love affairs. The women dominate this story, beginning to end, and this female-forward narrative perspective is both refreshing and heartfelt.

Ann Patchett has authored nine novels, including the critically-acclaimed The Dutch House, as well as five works of nonfiction. Some refer to Patchett as “America’s author,” as her titles sell out shortly after hitting the shelves. If you happen to love or are curious to try audio books, I cannot recommend this one enough, as it is narrated by Meryl Streep and simply a delightful experience.

“There is no explaining this simple truth about life: you will forget much of it.”

REVIEW BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE

Hats & Horses

A Derby-Themed Celebration for a Cause

MONROE, LOUISIANA – GET READY TO DON YOUR finest derby attire and raise a glass to student success at Louisiana Delta Community College’s (LDCC) 4th Annual Hats & Horses fundraiser. Scheduled for Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., this highly anticipated annual event will take place at the ATC Community Auditorium on LDCC’s Monroe campus.

Bringing a touch of Southern elegance and the excitement of the Kentucky Derby, Hats & Horses has become a signature tradition for LDCC and the surrounding community. “This event promises an afternoon of Southern elegance and Derby Traditions,” says Frank Bennett, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations at Louisiana Delta Community College. This stylish soirée not only provides an unforgettable evening of entertainment but also serves a meaningful purpose—supporting scholarships and programs that empower students to achieve their educational and career aspirations.

“Hats & Horses is a signature event that embodies the spirit of our community and celebrates our commitment to student success,” said Frank. “Every year, this event grows in impact and significance, and 2025 will be no different.” From the initial sip of a cool mint julep to the final taste of delectable Southern Delicates, attendees will embark on a culinary journey through the flavors of the South, all while enjoying the activities this event has to offer.

Attendees can look forward to a variety of exciting activities, including:

• Mint Juleps & Derby Cuisine – Guests will indulge in a delightful array of classic Southern flavors, expertly curated by the talented Chef Karen Bennett. Every dish is crafted to transport attendees straight to the heart of Derby culture. Paired with the refreshing and iconic Mint Julep, the carefully designed menu ensures an authentic and memorable Derby experience filled with bold flavors, Southern hospitality, and culinary excellence.

• Live Kentucky Derby Viewing – Experience the heart-pounding excitement of the “Run for the Roses” with a thrilling live stream of the iconic Kentucky Derby, bringing all the action from Churchill Downs straight to Monroe. Guests will feel the energy of race day as they watch elite thoroughbreds compete for victory on the big screen, surrounded by fellow Derby enthusiasts. From the call to the post to the exhilarating final stretch, every moment of the race will be filled with anticipation, cheers, and celebration, making for an unforgettable viewing experience.

• Silent Auction & Bourbon Tastings – Guests will have the chance to indulge in a truly special bourbon experience while supporting a great cause. The evening will feature an exciting bourbon pull, where participants can draw bottles ranging from well-loved classics to rare, high-end selections. In addition to these spirited delights, the silent auction will feature an impressive array of unique items, luxury experiences, and exclusive memorabilia, giving attendees the opportunity to place competitive bids on one-of-a-kind treasures. Whether sipping, bidding, or both, guests will enjoy an evening of Southern sophistication, all while contributing to a meaningful cause.

• Hat & Fashion Contest – A true highlight of the evening, this contest will celebrate the timeless elegance and bold fashion statements synonymous with the Kentucky Derby. Guests are encouraged to don their most show-stopping hats, fascinators, and dapper ensembles, as judges will be on the lookout for the most stylish, creative, and eyecatching looks of the night. Whether it’s a classic wide-brimmed hat adorned with florals and feathers, a sleek and sophisticated suit, or a daringly unique outfit that turns heads, this contest is the perfect opportunity to showcase personal style. Winners will be awarded fantastic prizes, adding an extra layer of excitement and friendly competition to the festivities. So, dress to impress and get ready to strut your stuff in a celebration of Derby fashion at its finest!

• Photo Booth Experiences – Step into the spotlight and capture unforgettable memories of this glamorous evening with a variety of fun and elegant photo opportunities. Whether posing solo, with a date, or in a lively group, guests can strike a pose! Attendees can take home a cherished memento of the night, ensuring that the excitement and style of the Derby live on long after the final race.

Proceeds from the event directly fund scholarships and academic programs at LDCC, helping students pursue their dreams with the financial support they need.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now. Secure your spot by visiting bit.ly/hatshorses25. For more information, contact Frank Bennett at 318-345-9365 or via email at frankbennett@ladelta.edu.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this beloved community tradition. Mark your calendars, pick out your best Derby hat, and saddle up for an evening of fashion, fun, and philanthropy at Hats & Horses 2025!

A LIFE THAT DEFIES BELIEF

by Guy Miller, Vice Chair Emeritus, Chennault Aviation and Military Museum

Ihave a history question for you. Who is Mae Jemison? Everyone should know this name; especially if you were born in the mid1980s or earlier. But in case you don’t know or remember let me refresh your memory.

Mae Carol Jemison was born in Decatur, Alabama on October 17, 1956. Unhappy with job opportunities in the South, the family moved to Chicago when Mae was three. Her parents valued education and took their children to visit and learn at the local museums. As soon as Mae learned to read, her parents took her to the library where she checked out books about evolution, dinosaurs, stars and planets. She also began dancing as a child and gained an appreciation for hard work, physical strength and grace.

Mae excelled in science during elementary school. At a planetarium, she marveled over viewing stars from the perspective of the Southern Hemisphere seeing what the sky looked like thousands of years ago. In high school, she was always on the honor roll and graduated in 1973 when she was 16 years old.

Mae chose to attend Stanford University in California. Among other things, she studied Swahili, took modern, jive, swing, Haitian, Brazilian, and African dance classes and acted in a play and musical. Mae graduated in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering and a Bachelor of Arts degree in African American studies.

What does a Chemical Engineer do after graduation? Go to Cornell Medical School of course. While a student, she led a study in Cuba for the American Medical Student Association and worked at a Cambodian refugee camp in Thailand. Between school years, Mae traveled to Kenya where she worked for the African Medical Education and Research Foundation (the Flying Doctors), who traveled to remote areas in East Africa to provide health services. Mae performed a community medicine projects and was a hospital surgical assistant. After Kenya, Mae spent eight weeks traveling to Egypt, Greece, and Israel.

Mae graduated from Cornell Medical School in 1981. She interned at the Los Angeles County Medical Center and later practiced general medicine.

Mae’s travel experiences inspired her to join the Peace Corps in 1983 where she served as a medical officer for two years. As Area Peace Corps Medical Officer for Sierra Leone and Liberia, she was responsible for the health of all US Peace Corps volunteers, staff members, and embassy personnel. She also managed a medical office, a laboratory, pharmacy, and volunteer health training in addition to being a primary care doctor.

All these accomplishments were only the beginning.

On June 18, 1983 Sally Ride became the first American woman in space. Mae decided to apply to NASA’s astronaut program and was accepted in 1987 as one of the fifteen people chosen out of over 2,000 applications.

After completing astronaut training, Mae’s first assignment was STS-47 as a mission specialist aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. When the shuttle launched on September 12, 1992, Mae Jemison became the first African American woman in space.

Taking advantage of the microgravity environment, where objects appear to be weightless, Mae conducted over forty-four different experiments. According to NASA, these experiments covered such fields as biotechnology, electronic materials, fluid dynamics and transport phenomena, glasses and ceramics, metals and alloys, and acceleration measurements. Not to forget her medical background, NASA also allowed Mae to perform experiments on human health, cell separation and biology, developmental biology, animal and human physiology and behavior, space radiation, and biological rhythms. Her test subjects included the crew, Japanese koi fish, cultured animal and plant cells, chicken embryos, fruit flies, fungi and plant seeds, and frogs and frog eggs. After 127 orbits around the Earth , the shuttle landed at Kennedy Space Center in Florida on September 20, 1992.

Mae later stated, “Strange, but I always knew I’d be here. Looking down and all around me, seeing the Earth, the moon, and the stars, I just felt that I belonged right there, and in fact, any place in the entire universe”

Mae’s astronaut career lasted for six years and she left NASA in 1993. The fame she gained from her historic flight provided her “a more visible platform from which to discuss the importance of individuals taking responsibility not only for themselves, but also for how they treat others and this planet”

Wanting to apply her knowledge, skills, perspectives and energy in different innovative ways, post-NASA, Mae founded The Earth We Share, an international science camp, a consulting company, Jemison Group Inc., which focused on combining space and technology to improve daily life on earth, and more recently, 100 Year Starship, an initiative committed to ensuring that the capabilities for human interstellar travel beyond our solar system will exist in the next 100 years. Mae also became a university professor and taught space technology and its benefits for developing countries at Dartmouth College.

Mae currently serves on the Board of Directors for many organizations including the Kimberly-Clark Corp., Scholastic, Inc., Valspar Corp., Morehouse College, Texas Medical Center, Texas State Product Development and Small Business Incubator, Greater Houston Partnership Disaster Planning and Recovery Task Force, and the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering.

Mae Jemison’s accomplished life should be a true inspiration for everyone. In her own words, “Sometimes people want to tell you to act or to be a certain way. Sometimes people want to limit you because of their own imaginations.”

Shifting Gears

From Auto Tech Student to Assistant Teaching

ARTICLE BY DARIAN ATKINS AND

BBY CAMRYN PRICE THOMPSON

ORN IN NEW ORLEANS AND RAISED IN ST. JOSEPH (St. Joe), Louisiana, Johnathan Heim always felt a deep connection to his community. St. Joe, a small town in Tensas Parish nestled in the Mississippi Delta, had a population of 1,176 in 2010, which declined to 762 by 2023. Despite its modest size, Heim fondly recalls the town’s strong sense of community. “I really like the people of St. Joe. They’re like family—sometimes quite literally,” Heim says. “We did a lot of things together.”

As a student, Heim gravitated toward academic extracurricular activities rather than athletics. He was an active member of the 4-H Club, Beta Club, and the choir at Guilfield Church. He also participated in the Tensas Parish Community Choir and various town organizations. “I liked being involved because it made me feel connected to everyone,” Heim shares. Traveling with the choir to different events filled him with pride, especially when their performances brought recognition to small towns like St. Joe, Waterproof, and Newellton. Even over the phone, his voice carried the warmth of those cherished memories.

As a young adult, Heim was convinced he would become an engineer. “Career-wise, I always thought I’d do something in science and technology because I was a nerd,” Heim laughs. “I loved science, cars, and machinery, so engineering seemed like the perfect fit. That was the plan—until life had other ideas.”

Though he didn’t end up as an engineer, his path wasn’t too far off. After high school, Heim moved to Monroe in 2012 and began working at Chase in mortgage banking. Over the years, he held several other jobs, but the desire to return to school never faded. However, personal responsibilities made pursuing higher education a challenge.

Heim’s mother battled breast cancer and kidney failure, requiring full-time care. He moved her into his home and became her primary caregiver until she sadly passed away a few years ago. Balancing life’s demands, Heim wasn’t sure if he had the time, capacity, or financial resources to pursue a degree. “I didn’t want to just sign up for anything—I wanted to study something I’d truly enjoy,” Heim says.

When he was finally ready, Heim visited the West Monroe Campus of Louisiana Delta Community College. “Ms. Julia Toliver gave me a tour of the campus, and when I met Mr. Jordan, the former

automotive instructor, he encouraged me to sign up on the spot,” Heim recalls.

Uncertain about whether he could manage coursework or even succeed, Heim still pushed forward. Fortunately, the encouragement of Mr. Jordan and others in his circle, proved to be a turning point. “I owe Mr. Jordan so much,” Heim shares. “He pushed me in the right direction.” Before long, Heim transitioned from student to instructor, working alongside Jordan and helping others find their footing in the program. “Mr. Jordan hired me as a student worker and then I became an instructor,” shares Heim. After successfully completing the Automotive Technology Program and getting some teaching hours in the classroom, Hein decided it was time to build upon his academic foundation. He began pursuing a bachelor’s degree in public management at Mississippi State University. An honor student, he is set to graduate this May.

While he enjoys teaching and mentoring students, Heim has aspirations beyond the classroom. He hopes to transition into administrative roles where he can make a broader impact on education and workforce training.

Outside of work and school, Heim considers himself a homebody. “I go to car shows, and I like exploring Monroe to see how it’s changing and growing,” he says. “If I find something that could benefit my students, I take that information back to them.”

In addition to his automotive and educational pursuits, Heim has a creative side: he enjoys writing poetry and jotting down his thoughts in his spare time. Heim says he is a very reflective person and writing aids his processing.

From a small-town student with big dreams to a mentor helping others navigate their own journeys, Heim’s path is a testament to resilience and passion. His story proves that while plans may change, a determined spirit will always find its way forward.

Louisiana Delta Community College believes in growing its own leaders and is very proud of Heim and his progress. Heim is still honing skills in the classroom under Casey Hickman, program instructor.

The Automotive Technology Program is enrolling now for the summer and fall. Check out the full program at www.ladelta.edu.

PHOTOS

Fishing With Kenny

Fishing with Stephanie Hemphill-Pellerin

article by KENNY COVINGTON

When I was told the March issue of BayouLife Magazine would center around a “Women’s Empowerment” theme, I immediately started thinking about who an interesting fisherperson would be to interview and write about in line with this month’s theme. The first person I thought of was professional angler, Stephanie Hemphill-Pellerin.

In a sport that has been male dominate since its inception, many women have pioneered a path that many others have not just followed but continue to broaden the possibilities for even more young women to follow. The likes of the late Burma Thomas, local West Monroe LadyBass angler Pat Antley, the first woman to qualify for the Bass Masters Classic Pam Martin-Wells, Hall of Famer Chris Houston and the list goes on and on. I believe Stephanie Hemphill-Pellerin will soon be added to that list.

When we spoke, Stephanie was at her home in Village Mills, Texas where she resides with her husband Steve and two sons. Their home overlooks a small lake on the golf course, and she was talking about wanting to go fishing. To say her life is a plate full would be an understatement.

What is something a lot of people don’t understand about tournament fishing and the business side of things?

“That’s a good question. The business side of things is what really takes up most of your time. It is eighty percent of what we do. The fishing side of things is the other twenty percent. When dealing with sponsors or trying to gain sponsors, I think a mistake some anglers make is they sell themselves short. You must know your worth.”

How did you get started in tournament fishing and what are your goals for your future in the sport?

“My hero is my dad, and I have been fishing with him since I was a little girl. He taught me everything I know about fishing. I can remember when I was nine years old, telling my dad, this is what I want to do. And this is my second crack at it, I returned to the sport in 2020 fishing some BFL’s and Lady Anglers tournaments and I won the LBAA Rookie of the Year award back in 2021. But when I decided to jump back in, I did it with both feet. Now, I fish the NPFL events, the Bassmaster Opens, and the MFL Invitationals. I am on the road a lot.

As far as my goals are concerned, I want to be competitive. I heard Kristine Fischer say she hopes to be the first woman to qualify for the

Elites, and that’s fine. I just want to be competitive, cash some checks, learn as I go and let the chips fall where they may. I am good with that.

But, having said all that, I like the direction I am going. I want to try and make it easier for the next generations of young women who hope to follow me. Hopefully, we are doing that.”

Let’s talk about the state of bass fishing in general, what does the future hold for this sport?

“Overall, I believe the sport itself is on a decline. The main reason is due to the economy and the price of everything. We have slowly become an elitist sport and some of these companies are going to price themselves out of business. The anglers are getting younger and younger, and the tournaments are struggling to have full fields. There are a lot of reasons for this, FFS (technology), the decision of many older anglers to retire and just the cost of tournament fishing alone is a big reason. No matter what you are doing, to be successful, you can’t worry about what it costs to do it.”

How do you prepare for a tournament?

“Tournament fishing is based on one thing, on the water decisions. You must prepare before you ever leave your house. Use the older topographical maps if they are available. Scout the tournament waters using the Internet. If your lake is off limits, find a body of water that is similar and see what is happening there. If Toledo Bend is off limits to me, then I can drive up the road and fish Sam Rayburn and can get a surprisingly good idea of what might be going on at Toledo. Do your homework!!! However, one thing I have learned, it is possible to know a lake too well.”

What are your fishing strengths?

“I am a multi-tasker. I will throw whatever lure or use whatever technique needed to put fish in my livewell. If I were only allowed to do one thing, it would be to flip/pitch and skip jigs and soft plastics. I love doing that and it works everywhere. (I asked her what something is she always has tied on) I love throwing a shakey head, a jerk shad, and a chatterbait, those are always on the deck. Really, it comes down to confidence. Do you have total confidence in the lure you are using and your technique of choice?”

Forward Facing Sonar and the other technological advancements:

“Technology will continue to evolve. I don’t necessarily think it is a bad thing, but it should be limited in tournament competition. I can see the relevance of using it as well as the reason to have it, just as I can see why some people don’t like it. I can see both sides of the argument but it’s not going anywhere.”

When our hour-long conversation concluded Stephanie took the time to list her sponsors and send a special thanks to them for supporting her. Her impressive sponsorship list includes Joe From Texas.com, Phoenix Boats, Mercury Marine, FXR, Quality Mat, Rayburn Resorts and Marina, Dakota Lithium Batteries, Z-Man, Bass Boat Wired, Humminbird/MinnKota, Jordan Marine, Team Ark, Bait Works, and Sunline.

Well, it looks like we have run out of time and space for another month. I hope you enjoyed the conversation, and I want to thank Stephanie for sharing her thoughts and wisdom about this great sport! See you next month, take care and make sure you catch one for me!

A Simple Solution for Sleep Apnea

NELA Dental Offers a Silent, Comfortable Solution to Sleep Apnea

NELA DENTAL IS EXCITED TO OFFER PATIENTS A new service to help those suffering from sleep apnea. There is an oral solution for sleep apnea which comes in the form of a custom-fitted device designed to keep the airway open during sleep, offering an effective alternative to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines for certain patients. These devices are worn in the mouth, resembling a sports mouthguard or orthodontic retainer, and function by repositioning the jaw or tongue to prevent airway obstruction. Comfortable, portable, and easy to maintain, oral appliances are tailored to each patient’s needs by Dr. Raymond.

NELA Dental works with ProSomnus Sleep Technologies who is FDA approved and a leading provider of innovative solutions for OSA treatment. The company specializes in precision-engineered Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) devices, offering a patient-preferred alternative to CPAP therapy. These appliances are custom-designed to enhance patient comfort and improve clinical outcomes, earning the trust of healthcare providers nationwide.

One of ProSomnus’s flagship products is the EVO Sleep and Snore Device, recognized for its superior comfort, durability, and ease of use. This biocompatible and hygienic device is tailored to match each patient’s anatomy for optimal fit and effectiveness. Clinical studies highlight its success, with 96% of users reporting positive experiences and significant improvements in their sleep quality.

For those seeking an alternative to traditional CPAP therapy, ProSomnus oral appliances represent a modern, effective, and personalized approach to treating obstructive sleep apnea.

Oral Solutions vs. CPAP

While both ProSomnus oral appliances and CPAP machines aim to keep the airway open during sleep, they differ significantly in comfort, usability, and effectiveness for different patient needs.

CPAP machines work by delivering a continuous stream of pressurized air through a mask, preventing airway collapse. While CPAP is highly effective, many patients find the machine cumbersome due to the noise, mask discomfort, and required maintenance. The bulky equipment can make travel inconvenient, and some users struggle with compliance due to irritation from the mask or the sensation of forced air.

In contrast, ProSomnus oral appliances, like the EVO Sleep and Snore Device, offer a quieter, more compact solution. These customfitted devices resemble a sports mouthguard and work by gently repositioning the jaw or tongue to keep the airway open naturally. Unlike CPAP machines, they do not require electricity, making them travel-friendly and easier to maintain. Additionally, their tailored fit enhances comfort, leading to higher patient adherence.

For individuals with mild to moderate OSA or those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy, ProSomnus oral appliances provide an effective, patient-preferred alternative. Clinical studies show that users experience significant improvements in sleep quality without the discomfort and inconvenience associated with CPAP machines. By offering a more personalized and practical solution, oral appliance therapy is revolutionizing the way sleep apnea is treated.

Schedule a Consultation

If you struggle with sleep apnea and are looking for a comfortable alternative to CPAP therapy, scheduling a consultation with Dr. Raymond at NELA Dental is the first step toward better sleep. During your appointment, Dr. Raymond will evaluate your symptoms, discuss your sleep concerns, and determine if a ProSomnus oral appliance is the right solution for you. With a personalized approach to treatment, he will ensure your appliance is custom-fitted for maximum comfort and effectiveness.

Ask About Our Membership Plan

We accept most major dental insurance plans, third-party payments, and offer flexible financing options. NELA Dental wants to make things financially easier for our patients. That’s why we offer membership plans as an alternative to insurance.

Our membership plans offer no deductibles, no maximums, and no denials. It includes two exams and cleanings and one set of bite-wing x-rays per year and 20% off all other services. While most insurance plans cap payouts each year, there are no limits to the benefits of our membership plans.

Call one of our convenient locations in Farmerville and Monroe to schedule your appointment today!

SPRING FLORALS

Vee’s Flowers designed a beautiful floral arrangement featuring hydrangeas, peonies, deep purple roses, quince, fringe tulips, hypericum berries, and kale—a perfect centerpiece for any spring gathering.

by VEE’S FLOWERS

Styled

Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

Refresh, Renew & Rejuvenate

Medical Spa by St. Francis Medical Group

ZO SKIN HEALTH

Spring is all about renewal, making it the perfect time to revamp your skincare routine. As the weather shifts, your skin may need a boost to shed the dull, dry layers of winter and embrace a healthy radiant glow. ZO Skin Health offers powerful, medicalgrade products designed to exfoliate, hydrate, and protect – helping your skin transition seamlessly into spring. Not sure where to start? Our skincare experts can customize a ZO routine tailored to your unique skin type and goals.

Rapid Renewal Peel

A great way to kickstart your spring routine is with the ZO Rapid Renewal Peel. This gentle yet effective peel uses a blend of glycolic, lactic, and citric acids to slough away dead skin cells, brighten your complexion, and promote a smoother texture -all with no downtime. It’s the perfect pick me-up for dull, tired skin and can be easily incorporated into your routine for ongoing maintenance.

Glo2Facial

The Glo2Facial combines oxygenation, exfoliation, and nourishment to brighten dull winter skin, even out skin tone, and strengthen your skin’s defenses against environmental stressors.

This facial deeply exfoliates to remove dull, dry skin while infusing it with nutrient-rich ingredients tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re looking to brighten, hydrate, or restore and balance, the Geneo Facial delivers immediate and long-lasting results with no downtime. Perfect for all skin types, this treatment leaves you with a radiant, healthy glow that’s ready to take on sunnier days ahead.

Sculptra

Sculptra is a unique, collage-stimulating injectable that gradually restores volume loss, smooths fine lines, and enhances skin firmness for natural, long-lasting results. Unlike traditional filers, Sculptra works beneath the surface to boost your skin’s own collagen production, providing subtle, progressive rejuvenation over time.

When it comes to aging gracefully, there’s no one-treatment fixtrue skin rejuvenation is a journey. At The Medical Spa, we take a

customized, multi-step approach to help you achieve long-lasting results. By combining medical-grade skincare, collagen-stimulating treatments, and in-office procedures, we create a timeline that supports your skin’s health and beauty over time. Book a consultation today and let’s build your perfect anti-aging timeline together!

Meet Our Team:

Megan Gimber, FNP, received her associate degree in nursing from Panola College in Cartharge, TX. She completed her bachelor of science in nursing from Northwestern State University in Shreveport, LA and earned her master of science as a family practice nurse practitioner from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Megan has been in nursing for 18 years and loves providing care to her patients. She enjoys working in aesthetics and helping others feel their best. Megan enjoys spending time with her family and friends, going to church, watching softball, and playing games.

Rebecca Justice, RN, received her associate of science in nursing degree at Darton College in Georgia. She brings nine years of nursing experience to The Medical Spa. Rebecca is excited to specialize in aesthetics and assist patients with skincare and treatment options. She loves seeing the excitement and confidence patients achieve after visiting the spa. In her spare time, Rebecca enjoys being outdoors, traveling and spending time with family and friends.

Frankie Wheeler is the front office coordinator for The Medical Spa. She was raised in Louisiana and attended the University of Louisiana at Monroe, where she received her bachelor of science in psychology. Frankie enjoys assisting patients with questions about aesthetic treatments and skincare products. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.

Be sure to come by The Medical Spa this month to take advantage of our specials, events, and to find out more about the medical-grade skincare products, and treatments offered here! We are in the James R. Wolff Building (also known as the P&S Building) in downtown Monroe. Our address is 312 Grammont Street Suite 406, across from St. Francis Medical Center. Also, be certain to follow us on St. Francis Medical Center Facebook page and Instagram so you can be up to date on all the new and exciting things happening here at The Medical Spa.

The Luck Of The Irish

Celebrate with Guinness

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

THE HISTORY OF GUINNESS GOES BACK TO THE 1700’S.

It began with the story of Arthur Guinness. Arthur was the first in a long line of Guinness Master Brewers. Through his leadership, the craft of brewing at St. James’s Gate Brewery was handed down from generation to generation. Arthur himself most likely developed his passion for brewing from his father, Richard, who was said to oversee brewing in the Celbridge estate of Dr. Arthur Price, later Archbishop of Cashel.

On 31st December 1759, Arthur famously signed a nine thousand year lease on St. James’s Gate Brewery in Dublin. It was a testament to his belief in, and dedication to, his craft. He was a visionary with an entrepreneurial spirit. That spirit would continue to inspire, making Guinness one of the most popular and recognized brands in the world. Every pint served, from Ireland to Africa, is evidence of Arthur’s undeniable legacy.

‘Tis the season for celebrating all things Irish. Try this authentic Guinness recipe and bring the luck of the Irish to your table. Sláinte!

GUINNESS STEAK AND STOUT PIE

Ingredients:

Beef and Guinness Filling

2lb Stewing Beef

5oz Bacon, diced

7oz Carrots, diced into small chunks

3.5oz Celery, diced into small chunks

1 Large White Onion, finely diced

3 Cloves of Garlic, finely diced

1/4 Cup Plain Flour

2 1/2 Cups Beef Stock

1 Can Guinness Draught (14.8oz)

1/4 Cup Tomato Puree (Tomato Paste in US)

1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce

2 tsp Brown Sugar (preferably dark brown sugar)

2 Bay Leaves

4 sprigs of Fresh Thyme Mashed Potato

3.3lb Baking Potatoes, peeled and diced into chunks

6 tbsp Butter, closer to room temp the better

1/2 Cup Sour Cream, at room temp

1/4 Cup Whole Milk, at room temp

1 Bunch of Fresh Chives, finely diced

3 tsp Salt, or to taste

5oz Cheddar, grated

11oz Sheet of Puff Pastry

1 Egg, beaten

Method:

Trim fat from beef and dice into chunks. Season with salt and pepper. Add 1 tbsp oil to a large deep pot over high heat. Once hot, add half of the beef and sear until brown all over, then remove from the pot. Repeat with the second batch, adding more oil as needed. Lower the heat to medium and fry the bacon until it begins to crisp. Add the onion, carrot and celery and cook until it all begins to soften. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the flour then stir in half of the stock to dissolve the flour. Stir in the rest of the stock and all of the Guinness. Add the Worcestershire sauce, tomato puree, sugar, thyme, bay leaves and cooked beef with its juice. Once simmering, turn the heat to low, add on the lid and cook for 1 hour and 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the lid and simmer for a further 35-40 minutes, or until the consistency is a thick gravy and the beef is tender (important that the sauce has thickened).

Pour the filling into a 9x13 baking dish, plucking out the thyme stalks and bay leaves as and when you find them. Leave to rest for AT LEAST 30 minutes (longer if you can) to cool and form a skin on top. As the filling cools, make your mashed potatoes. Add the diced potato to a large pot of cold water and stir in 2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil and cook the potatoes until fork tender. Drain them in a colander and leave them to sit for 5 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375F. Add the potatoes back into the pot and mash with butter, sour cream, milk, chives and salt and pepper. Gently dollop the mash on top of the filling. Smooth over the mash to close any gaps and ensure the top is completely level. Sprinkle over the cheese, then add the pastry and brush with egg wash. Slice 4-5 steam holes in the top. Place the dish on top of a baking tray (important to catch any leakage) then place in the oven for 30 minutes, or until the pastry is deep golden and crispy, with the filling bubbling around the edges. Rest for 5 or so minutes before tucking in!

Be sure to like Choice Brands on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram to keep up with new product releases. Feel free to message us for information on where to find your favorite brands. Find us at facebook.com/ thechoicebrands, twitter.com/choicebrandsinc, and instagram.com/choicebrands.

A SEASONAL TRANSITION

As winter fades and spring approaches, it’s the perfect time to refresh your indoor plants and give your space a seasonal uplift. Gradually increasing their exposure to natural light, refreshing the soil, and repotting where necessary can encourage healthy new growth.

Styled by KATE ASHLEY

Grouping plants of varying heights and textures together creates a layered, organic look, while switching to lighter, more natural-toned pots or woven baskets can instantly brighten your home.

With the change in seasons, watering routines and humidity levels may need adjusting to support your plants’ transition. Introducing new greenery, like succulents or trailing pothos, adds vibrancy, while decorative touches such as moss or stylish trays help blend nature seamlessly into your decor. By mindfully styling and caring for your indoor plants, you create a refreshing environment that mirrors the awakening of spring outside.

Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

ARTICLE BY PHIL TRAHAN

The highlight of NELA Tennis each February is the Bolton Cup, named for Charlotte Bolton, matriarch of Monroe’s first family of tennis. The 2025 installment featured 153 competitors from 17 high schools throughout the region.

Continuing what is now an eight year winning streak, Neville took first place, followed in order by St. Frederick, West Monroe, Ruston and Oak Grove.

10 6 5 4 3 1 2

1 - Bolton Cup Champions Neville

2 - Runner-Up St. Frederick

3 - Third Place West Monroe

4 - Fourth Place Ruston

5 - Fifth Place Oak Grove

6 - Boys Singles Champion

Mitchell Spence of Neville

8

Parras Odudu of St. Frederick 7 11

7 - Ann Bolton McIntyre, Lee Ainsworth, Padg Bolton, Carolyn Cascio Bolton

8 - Boys Doubles Champion Will Cruse and Benton Anzalone of Neville

9 - Girls Doubles Champion

Coach Emilee Pate, Lillian Fendley, GiGi Daughtry, Coach David Poe of Ruston

10 - Charlotte Bolton

11 - Girls Singles Champion

Dragon Boat Festival 2025

Captivating Audiences With a Warhawk Connection

THE DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL

is an exciting and family-friendly fundraising event for the Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana. The true winners are the children and families in our community receiving services that address critical issues and raise the level of care and support for children in our region, from birth to 18 years old.

2025 will be huge! We are delighted to announce that this year’s festival will take place at the picturesque Bayou Desiard on Warhawk Way Bridge. Through a new partnership with University of Louisiana Monroe and Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM), the Children’s Coalition Dragon Boat Festival continues to provide a place for Northeast Louisiana to gather for a cherished community-building event and will provide exposure of these beautiful campuses.

It is believed dragon boat races have

been held annually for over 2,000 years and originated in Southern China. It is rooted in an ancient folk ritual of contending villagers; but it is now an international sport. A traditional dragon boat has a decorative dragon head and tail. This symbolic imagery has local history from the Chenault warplanes and honored by the ULM Warhawk plane.

Teams will race in authentic 40-foot-long Chinese dragon boats, each equipped with 20 rowers, a drummer, and a professional. Competitions will be held in various categories, including the Premier Cup, Biz Cup, Health Cup, and Youth Cup, with a grand prize for the overall winner.

Participants include corporate and local businesses, fitness groups, colleges, and schools. We encourage teams to include rowers of diverse ages (12+), athletic abilities, and genders. Embracing inclusiveness can strengthen your dragon boat team’s composition for the races. One of the greatest

benefits for organizations or businesses participating is the opportunity to gain valuable team-building experience and skills.

Festival Schedule

• 9:00 AM: Teams Arrive

• 9:30 AM: Opening Ceremonies

• 10:00 AM: First Race Begins

• 4:00 PM: Final Race (estimated)

In addition to Saturday’s races, spectators can enjoy food from local food trucks and restaurants while cheering on their favorite teams. Spectators and teams are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets, sunscreen, hats, and umbrellas. Strollers and ice chests are permitted. Please note that glass, grills, motorized vehicles, and pets (excluding service animals), are not allowed on the festival grounds.

Free parking is available on the ULM campus at Stubbs Hall on DeSiard St or Strauss Hall and the Library on Bayou Drive. The festival is free for spectators and fans to attend. Be sure to join us for this unforgettable event!

The Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana is dedicated to creating communities where children and families thrive. We address the needs of children and youth in four main areas: Early Childhood, Parenting, Healthy Living, and Youth Development. Visit www.childrenscoalition. org to learn more!

BAYOU RECIPE

Spinach and Potato Soup

Looking for an inspired dish for St. Patrick’s Day? This garlicky spinach and potato soup’s savory flavors are a perfect way to enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

3.5 tablespoons butter

2 medium onions, finely chopped

1 pound Russet potatoes, chunked

5 cups vegetable stock

8 cups spinach

2 cloves garlic

4 tablespoons sour cream

DIRECTIONS:

Melt butter in a large pan, add onions, and cover. Cook for 10 minutes or until soft. Add chopped garlic and cook for 2 minutes more. Add potatoes and stock and bring to a boil. Simmer for 25 minutes or until potatoes are soft. Roughly chop spinach and add to hot soup until wilted. Let cool slightly and then blend until the soup is smooth. Return to pan and simmer. Stir in sour cream and salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with garlic butter croutons and green onions.

Styled by KATE ASHLEY

Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK

the women’s symposium

The ULM Women’s Symposium annually highlights women from across Northeast Louisiana for their individual achievements, professional and personal. Here we highlight five of the 2025 panelists and why they were chosen as leaders in their respective fields.

ARTICLES BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK

Helaina Desentz

Helaina Desentz describes herself as Cajun and Creole. Raised on the West Bank of New Orleans, Helaina and her family moved to New Iberia, Louisiana, post-Katrina. Though the youngest of 7 children, Helaina exudes eldest-child energy; her mom even nicknamed her Pitbull. At New Iberia Senior High, Helaina stayed in sports 24/7 - everything from volleyball, softball, and spirit groups to travel teams over the summer. When it came time for college, Helaina wanted a new place; she felt there were other people she needed to know. ULM felt like an easy place to attend school; she liked the size and emphasis on the outdoors.

Though initially interested in Atmospheric Science, Helaina spent her evenings researching careers in health psychology. She earned a bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in Health Studies, followed by a master’s in Public Administration. In a Healthcare Issues course, Helaina approached Tammy Morgan from the Louisiana Department of Health, who was there to discuss emergency preparedness, and inquired about an internship. Because of her personal experience with Katrina, Tammy’s lecture resonated. As first an unpaid intern and then a student worker, Helaina helped with the Emergency Preparedness Program. She was handling outreach on the Zika virus when the pandemic hit. She worked full time managing contract tracing.

After graduation, Helaina moved into Regional Surveillance Epidemiology and is now over 12 parishes in northeast Louisiana. Helaina works to identify disease outbreaks and provide recommendations for reducing spread and prevention in the future. Understanding what’s normal for the region and when intervention needs to occur is critical to her job. She takes pride in reducing the economic and health burdens of northeast Louisiana citizens and improving overall health outcomes.

Her sports roots run deep, so Helaina volunteers as a coach with the LA Tech Men’s Volleyball Club. Helaina brings knowledge of the defensive side of the game and guides players toward more constructive attitudes to support their growth. From her time on the court, Helaina believes organized sports teach people about the real world, and she likes helping others achieve their potential.

Coming from a big, hard-working, and passionate family, Helaina brings that energy and motivation to all she does for the community. Helaina Desentz will be speaking more about her journey at the 2025 Women’s Symposium on Tuesday, March 11th, on the panel entitled, “Women in Social Sciences.”

Stacey Majure

Growing up in West Monroe, physical activity was a big part of Stacey Majure’s life. While a member of the cheerleading squad and soccer team at West Monroe High School, Stacey also ran track and even joined the swim team. If the school needed a participant for girls’ sports, Stacey stepped up. Stacey went on to attend LSU, where she considered interior design, but ultimately decided to pursue a career in healthcare. Quite randomly but perhaps fated, Stacey took a job at an outpatient physical therapy (“PT”) clinic in Baton Rouge. The doctors used a manual therapy approach, with less exercises and more handson techniques. They focused on mobilizing tissue and joints to get the body moving again. Prior to her own post-injury therapy, Stacey always assumed physical therapy meant simply performing exercises, and working at this clinic expanded her understanding of the power of PT. She developed a passion, and it became clear to her this hands-on practice would be her life's work. After graduation, Stacey took a gap year, moved to New Orleans, and planned to attend PT school in the city; then Hurricane Katrina happened. Instead, Stacey attended PT school at the University of St. Augustine, whose founder also emphasized a hands-on approach to therapy (a fortunate coincidence). Stacey obtained her manual therapy certification while in school and then returned to Monroe, eventually joining Affinity Health Group focused on women’s health before opening her own clinic, MPower Physio & Wellness, in 2024. Stacey specializes in pelvic health, a niche she started after her son was born. In pelvic therapy, Stacey works on more than just the internal pelvic floor muscles, as the pelvic floor is part of the core, and everything in the body influences the core. Stacey observes how the whole body moves and functions. Her patients typically seek treatment after changes to the pelvic floor during pregnancy, delivery, and menopause. Stacey’s mission through MPower is to empower women by providing awareness, education, and treatment throughout a woman’s life.

Though a business owner, Stacey considers herself healthcare-minded. Luckily, her husband John obtained his MBA from ULM and is always there to provide support. The couple dated throughout Stacey’s tenure at St. Augustine and married in 2009. They have three children: John Wallace (11), Anders (9), and Merritt (5). Aside from raising a family and seeing patients, Stacey is an adjunct instructor at ULM where she teaches a Clinical Skills course to first year physical therapy students. While focusing on basic skills, the interactive lab is an energetic environment. Stacey loves interacting with students, seeing their budding passion for healthcare and helping others. Stacey will be speaking more about her journey in women’s health at the 2025 Women’s Symposium on Tuesday, March 11th, on the panel entitled, “Women in Physical Health & Therapy.”

women’s symposium • the women’s symposium • the

Dr. Lawrencia Jenkins

Dr. Lawrencia Jenkins, a proud Monroe, Louisiana native, is a Wossman High School alumna and a three-time graduate of the University of Louisiana Monroe. From an early age, Lawrencia’s parents stressed the value in education. Her parents nurtured her growth, instilling self-confidence and a sense of fulfillment. Along with her older brother Lawrence, Lawrencia understood she could achieve anything that she set her mind to. Guided by Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," and inspired by her mother, Rose Jenkins, Lawrencia embraced the belief that greatness was within her reach.

At 16, Lawrencia knew she wanted a career that involved helping others. Whether it be mental or physical health, she desired to serve the community. Shortly before graduation, Lawrencia’s mother took her to meet the faculty and staff in the Marriage and Family Therapy Program (MFT) at ULM. She secured a job as a student worker and majored in Psychology, intent on understanding the human mind. She went on to earn her master’s and doctorate from ULM in Marriage and Family Therapy. During her doctoral journey, she was awarded a fellowship with the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), conducting research on minority populations and advocating for mental health policies in Washington, DC and other cities. As a graduate assistant, Lawrencia saw the inner workings of the MFT clinic on ULM’s campus and secured internships with the WellSpring and the Center for Children and Families, experiences which validated her career choice.

Lawrencia currently works as a clinician at Finding Solace, specializing in traumainformed care, perinatal mental health, military families, and relationship conflict. She utilizes narrative therapy and solutionbased approaches in her practice. Narrative therapy empowers individuals to reauthor their personal stories by separating them from problem-saturated narratives and highlighting strengths, values, and alternative perspectives. Solution-focused therapy helps clients to identify strengths amidst times of chaos, focusing on existing solutions as opposed to problems. Lawrencia helps clients release, restructure, and recreate the narrative they envision for their lives. In addition to her work at Finding Solace, Lawrencia is an adjunct instructor at Abilene Christian University and at Kairos Pacific University.

Lawrencia will be speaking more about her journey at the 2025 Women’s Symposium on Tuesday, March 11th, on the panel entitled, “Women in Mental Health & Therapy.”

symposium • the women’s symposium • the women’s symposium

Alex Noel

Growing up in South Louisiana, Alex Noel’s familial pride reflected the Cajun culture, an immersion of French-influenced language and art. Her grandparents mostly spoke Cajun French, and Alex attended an immersion school for French, art, and technology. As the oldest of 3, Alex served as a second parental figure due to her dad’s disability and the split of her parents. In high school, Alex pursued a leadership role in every organization - captain of JROTC and Color Guard, and junior class president. At ULM, Alex was again Color Guard captain, president of the band, and secretary, twice, of the American Meteorological Society before transferring to Mississippi State. During her education, Alex held an internship with KTVE-KARD studio, where she is currently employed as an evening meteorologist.

Watching the news at her grandparents’ home, Alex was fascinated by the meteorologists on TV. Teachers consistently asked Alex to stop staring out the window. She experienced the meteorology paradox - loving the weather and its power but afraid of what it does to people. Alex claims every meteorologist has the one event that calls attention to weather; for Alex, it came at the age of 7 with Hurricane Gustav. Her parents took the family on a “Hurrication,” a vacation you’re forced to take due to evacuation orders. Alex remembers being angry she didn’t get to see the hurricane firsthand.

Now as an evening meteorologist at KARDKTVE, Alex compares models, makes judgments, and issues forecasts. She admits it can be difficult for women in STEM fields, particularly meteorology. The field is stigmatized due to weather’s variability and meteorologists’ predictions being at the mercy of last-minute weather changes. Alex is one of few women in the industry; recent studies show only 29% of meteorologists are women, and only 8% are chief meteorologists. She struggles with being taken seriously since the bar for women is higher and the criticism is often harsh and surface-level.

Alex created Future Forecasters for children 18 and under to discuss weather safety and what it’s like to be a meteorologist. She tells the Future Forecasters, “Be prepared and not scared; know your safe places in the event of severe weather.” Children submit weather art or essays about memorable weather experiences. Top performers come to the KTVEKARD studio and work with meteorologists for an afternoon.

Alex met her husband Garrett LeBlanc, a computer scientist, in high school; the couple has been together ever since. Alex Noel will be speaking more about her journey at the 2025 Women’s Symposium on Tuesday, March 11th, on the panel entitled, “Women in STEM.”

women’s symposium • the women’s symposium

Gaundi Hays

For Gaundhi Hays, education is not only a calling, but a responsibility, as the educators in her life encouraged self-confidence and self-determination. After losing her mother at the age of six, Gaundhi was adopted by her grandparents; her aunts and uncles became brothers and sisters. Gaundhi was a responsible child, always caring for her younger siblings. When she tested as gifted and talented in 3rd grade and transferred to a new school, Gaundhi leaned into new challenges, focusing her energy on academics and music. She played the viola and the piano, joined the Junior Youth Symphony, and later the Monroe Youth Symphony. These experiences took Gaundhi from Bastrop to Monroe, introducing her to new people and cementing social skills that would impact her life’s trajectory.

Gaundhi earned an academic and orchestra scholarship to Grambling State University. She thrived in the HBCU environment, winning the title of Miss Sensation Lady, the institution’s first plus-size pageant. She won Miss Plus Louisiana and placed 1st runner up in Miss Plus USA. Aside from serving as the president of the Black Dynasty Modeling Troupe, Gaundhi held a work-study position in the Public Relations office and earned a bachelor’s in elementary education.

For the last 24 years, Gaundhi has taught at New Vision Learning Academy in Monroe, currently teaching 5th and 6th grade history and math. She possesses a strong rapport with older primary school students, understanding that effective teaching means connecting

individually with students. Gaundhi educates the whole child, providing lessons in etiquette, life skills, and social skills. She tells her students, “Once you receive an education, no one can take it away from you.” She finds personal and professional fulfillment in helping others, especially children.

Along with serving as Executive Director of Miss Monroe, a preliminary pageant to Miss Louisiana, Gaundhi is a former graduate advisor for the Theta Zeta chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She is a member and officer of the Zeta Phi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., which she joined in 2004. She founded G.O.L.D. (Girls Only Leadership Development) Night and B.O.L.D Night at New Vision Learning Academy, which hosts etiquette and empowerment workshops; started the Radiant Rose Pageant for young girls; and is a member of the Monroe Junior League. Gaundhi is most proud of her work as Mom to son Thai, now 21. Gaundhi Hays will be speaking more about her journey at the 2025 Women’s Symposium on Tuesday, March 11th, on the panel entitled, “Women in Education.”

The Northeast Louisiana Arts Council Presents BLEND

Save The Date For Sunday, March 23rd

THE NORTHEAST LOUISIANA

Arts Council presents BLEND, from 5-7:30pm Sunday, March 23, 2025, in the TCE Lobby of the Clarke M. Williams Innovation Center on the ULM/Lumen Campus.

Returning to the TCE Lobby, the best party for the arts features local cooks in addition to selected restaurants all serving tastings of their best culinary creations, a silent art auction featuring some of the area’s finest visual artists, along with exciting music and a special dance performance.

Ticket proceeds and a portion of silent auction profits benefit the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council’s programs and services.

The event centers around a wide array of delicious food and beverages prepared and served by prominent area professionals and business owners who generously volunteer their time and talents in support of the Arts

Council. Included are select local restaurants and chefs.

Blend of the Bayou debuted in 1997 and is the granddaddy of arts fundraising events of its type in northeast Louisiana. Merging with the Arts Council’s North Delta Food & Wine Festival in 2022 to create BLEND, many of the cooks have been involved through the years, helping continue the legend of Blend of the Bayou. Over the years a number of younger cooks have joined the ranks and are helping carry on the tradition.

Attendees have an opportunity to view and bid on original artwork by some of our leading Region 8 visual artists. The Bayou Gallery silent auction is hugely popular with attendees and affords them the chance to bid and win unique original artwork to take home that evening.

Music is an integral part of BLEND. This year the Arts Council is bringing back

last year’s hugely popular Brass Roots Brass Band. An exciting and fun group of current students, graduates, and faculty of the ULM music program.

Also joining us at BLEND again this year is Parish Ballet’s Statuesque. A must see. Local and area distributors will be providing select beverages to quench your thirst as you enjoy the beautiful setting of the TCE Lobby. Additionally, soft drinks and water provided by Coca- Cola and King Springs Water will be available.

Good food, good drinks, good music, good friends and great art...what more could you ask for? All for one ticket price at BLEND.

To see our complete list of sponsors, view latest information and updates, go to the Arts Council’s Facebook page and website at www.nelaarts.org/nela-arts-events/

Monroe Chamber of Commerce’s Banquet

Tim Green and Fred Hill Honored at 104th Annual Meeting and Banquet

THE MONROE CHAMBER OF Commerce’s 104th Annual Meeting and Banquet was held Thursday, February 13th at the Monroe Civic Center Conference Hall. Emcee for the evening was Roy Heatherly, President and CEO for the Monroe Chamber. The ceremony opened with words from Mayor Friday Ellis, followed by the ceremonial passing of the Board Chair gavel from Past President Jeremy Harrell to incoming President Aimee Kane.

Executives from Meta, DPR Construction, M.A. Mortensen, and Turner Construction participated in a questionand-answer fireside chat and updated the 650 chamber attendees about the plans and progress of the new Richland Parish Meta Artificial Intelligence Data Center, their largest data center in the world.

After the fireside chat, The Monroe Chamber awarded their two annual

prestigious awards. The Kitty DeGree Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award in Business and the Rambin-Silverstein Memorial Civic Award. The Kitty DeGree Lifetime Achievement award is an award that honors a person who exemplifies excellence in business, much like the award’s namesake. It is presented annually to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding achievement as a business leader over a span of at least 20 years. This year’s recipient is community leader Fred Hill, owner of Skent N Dent with locations in multiple cities and states.

Of the many awards and honors bestowed upon citizens of our community, none is more prestigious than the RambinSilverstein Memorial Civic Award. Established 58 years ago, this award honors a man or woman in Northeast Louisiana, who has displayed outstanding leadership and service to our community in business,

through volunteerism and in civic affairs.

The Rambin Silverstein Memorial Civic Award went to Tim Green, a selfless leader, community servant and owner of the CPA firm Allen, Green and Williamson.

Strickland Interiors

Jan Strickland Leads the Design of the 2025 St. Jude Dream Home

FOR THE EIGHTH CONSECUTIVE year, Jan Strickland of Strickland Interiors is bringing her expertise and vision to the St. Jude Dream Home. BayouLife recently had the opportunity to sit down with Jan to discuss this year’s project and what makes it so meaningful to her.

Q: How did you first become involved with the St. Jude Dream Home?

A: In 2018, BRACO Construction invited me to serve as the lead designer for the project. Immediately, I thought of my childhood best friend who lost her battle with cancer. In that moment, I knew I had to say “yes.” It has been a privilege to be part of this incredible initiative for the past eight years.

Q: What is your favorite part of working on the Dream Home?

A: Every year, I am deeply moved by the generosity of our local sponsors and partners

who come together in support of such a remarkable cause. The collaboration and community spirit grow stronger with each project, making every year even more special than the last.

Q: What excites you most about this year’s design?

A: I can’t wait to see my vision come to life—from the carefully curated color palette to the lighting and tile selections. Watching all the design elements come together is always an exciting moment.

Q: Are there any standout design trends incorporated into this year’s home?

A: This year, I’m embracing a sophisticated mix of neutrals, bold blacks, and striking ruby red accents—a color combination that is both timeless and on trend.

Q: How has the experience evolved since you first joined the project?

A: Over the years, my relationships with contractors and subcontractors have strengthened, allowing for a smoother, more seamless design process. However, one thing that has remained constant is our unwavering commitment to raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Q: Why is it important for the community to support St. Jude and the Dream Home?

A: Every dollar raised through ticket sales goes directly to St. Jude, ensuring that no family ever receives a bill for their child’s treatment. The generosity of our community makes that possible, and I am honored to play a role in this mission.

Tickets for the 2025 St. Jude Dream Home go on sale March 6th at DreamHome.org –Monroe, LA.

Dr. Smith Deemed A “Hero” By Patient

Male Breast Cancer Survivor Shares Story

BO SHAW, 76, RECENTLY UNDERWENT a mastectomy to remove cancer in his right breast.

When his surgeon, Dr. Patrick Smith, asked Bo if he wanted reconstructive surgery to fill the cavity, Bo smiled and told Dr. Smith—a longtime family friend— that Bo would use the weights Bo’s parents bought him at 12-years old to build his strength.

Bo, a Monroe native and president of Shaw Oxygen, underwent the surgery on a Friday, returned home that same afternoon, and resumed work the following Monday. He experienced “no complications and no pain.”

Bo said he is grateful for Dr. Smith at the Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana. “Dr. Smith is my hero. He did a wonderful job. Dr. Smith has an excellent bedside manner and an inherent ability to put the

patient at ease. He emits confidence, so as a result, the patient doesn’t worry. He has tremendous medical expertise, and he truly cares. He has been calling me personally to check on my progress. I also want to thank Kacie Brown, his RN.”

Bo’s breast cancer journey began long before he was diagnosed with it earlier this year. His mother died from breast cancer, and his sister underwent treatment twice for the disease and is a cancer survivor.

About 15 years ago, Bo, along with his daughters and nieces, tested positive for the BRCA2 gene, which increases the risk of breast cancer. Bo had a mammogram showing no cancer, so he decided to monitor his health.

Last summer, Bo felt a mass in his right breast, and after further tests, he underwent a mastectomy. Bo urges men to pay attention to their health: “If you feel something, say

something.”

More About Breast Cancer In Men

Because male breast cancer is rare, research is limited, according to MD Anderson Cancer Center. However, it is often linked to family history. About 1 in 5 men with breast cancer have a close relative with the disease.

These men may have a gene mutation (defect) called BRCA1 or BRCA2, such as in Bo’s case. Men should undergo genetic screening if they have been diagnosed with breast cancer or have a first-degree relative (mother, father, sibling, child) with early onset breast cancer, breast cancer in both breasts, or ovarian cancer.

If you have questions, please call the Surgery Clinic today at (318) 398-2984. The Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana, home of Delta Vein Care, houses surgeons Dr. Patrick Smith, Dr. Walter Sartor, Dr. Bart Liles, and Dr. Mohamed Bakeer.

BAYOU HEALTH

RECLAIMING YOUR ENERGY

How Women Heal Future Generation by Healing Themselves

BY SHANNON DAHLUM, FDN-P

If there’s one thing women are known for, it’s giving. We give our time and energy to our families, our careers, our communities. But what we give goes even deeper, down to the cellular level, and it’s a legacy that impacts not only our children, but future generations.

I’m not just talking about eye color or personality traits that we pass down. I mean something even deeper than that- our energy. Every single mitochondrion (the tiny powerhouses in our cells that create energy) comes directly from our mothers. Unlike most of our DNA, which is a mix from both parents, mitochondrial DNA is passed down only through the maternal line. That means the energy running through you was once inside your mother, your grandmother, your great-grandmother.

Mitochondrial health isn’t solely about genetics, though. It’s also influenced by stress, trauma, toxins, and lifestyle choices. The negative impacts these have on our mitochondrial health can be passed down, too. However, if stress and depletion can be inherited, so can healing. The way you care for yourself today doesn’t only impact your energy; it can shift the health of future generations. This means that if you start prioritizing your own energy, you could help break the cycle of exhaustion for your future children and your children’s children.

Science has shown us that trauma can be passed down through generations. Studies have revealed that children of Holocaust survivors, for example, have epigenetic markers that make them more sensitive to stress even though they never directly experienced the trauma themselves.

It’s not just humans, either. In one study, scientists exposed male mice to the scent of cherry blossoms while giving them small electric shocks. Unsurprisingly, the mice learned to fear the smell. But here’s the wild part: when these mice had babies, their offspring, who had never experienced the shocks, also showed fear when they smelled cherry blossoms.

A similar experiment was done with rabbits. A mother rabbit was exposed to the scent of peppermint while being poked with a needle, so she learned to associate peppermint with pain. Later, her babies, who had never experienced the needle, showed the same fear response to peppermint.

These studies show that stress and trauma don’t just affect us; they can change the way future generations respond to their environment. But the flip side to this is that positive changes can be inherited, too. Just like trauma and toxicity can be passed down, so can healing, resilience, and mitochondrial strength.

For healthy functioning mitochondria, we need to ensure we are providing them with the specific nutrients they need. Here are a

few they thrive on:

• Magnesium: Required for ATP (cellular energy) production. Found in leafy greens, nuts, and dark chocolate.

• CoQ10: A powerhouse antioxidant that supports mitochondrial function. Found in grass-fed beef, sardines, and organ meats.

• B Vitamins: Critical for energy metabolism, especially B1, B2, and B3. Found in beef liver, fatty fish, eggs, mushrooms, and bee pollen.

• Potassium & Sodium: Electrolytes that help keep your mitochondria firing properly.

We also need to pay attention to the toxins we are exposed to, which create cellular inflammation and diminish the ability for the mitochondria to produce energy. Toxins like heavy metals, mold, pesticides, highly processed foods, and endocrine disruptors (plastic water bottles and chemical-laden beauty products, for example) wreck mitochondrial function. To lower your toxin load, choose non-toxic cleaning and beauty products, organically raised foods, and filter your water (reverse osmosis is a good choice) to remove heavy metals and contaminants. It’s also important to make sure your body is eliminating toxins efficiently with regular bowel movements, physical activity, and sweating.

Blood sugar crashes also stress your mitochondria and make your energy levels swing wildly. Instead of skipping meals or relying on caffeine to push through, focus on eating balanced, nutrient dense meals throughout the day. Including protein, healthy fats, and fiber at each meal will support a healthier blood sugar response than consuming carbohydrates or protein alone.

Food isn’t the only thing that can spike blood sugar- stress can, too. For this reason, avoiding excess caffeine on an empty stomach can be important. Stress hormones should be highest in the morning, but if we skip breakfast and go straight for caffeine, we will increase stress hormones even more and potentially trigger an adrenaline and blood sugar roller coaster. A nutrient dense morning meal will calm the stress response and support healthier energy all day long.

Stress of any kind, which is simply anything that creates imbalance, drains your mitochondria. High cortisol levels shift your body into survival mode, robbing your cells of the energy they need to thrive. To support balance and disrupt chronic stress, prioritize the following:

• Move your body, but don’t overdo it. Gentle movement like walking, yoga, and strength training is best for mitochondrial support. Chronic cardio can backfire if you’re already depleted.

• Get outside in natural light. Sunlight in the morning signals your mitochondria to function properly, while consistent exposure to indoor lighting leads to chronically elevated cortisol.

• Prioritize deep breathing, meditation, or time in nature. Even 5 minutes of focused relaxation or presence every day can shift your nervous system into a healing state.

Mitochondria have their own internal clocks. When your sleep is off, your energy suffers. To support restful sleep, wake up and go to bed at the same time every day (yes, even on weekends). As mentioned previously, get sunlight exposure first thing in the morning to reset your circadian rhythm. Avoid indoor blue light and electronic screens (without the protection of blue light blocking

Unlike most of our DNA, which is a mix from both parents, mitochondrial DNA is passed down only through the maternal line.

glasses) after sunset so your body can produce melatonin, which supports sleep and is also a mitochondrial antioxidant that protects them from damaging inflammation.

Women have spent generations running on fumes, pushing through exhaustion, and sacrificing their own well-being for everyone else’s. But when you take back your energy, you’re not just healing yourself, you’re changing the trajectory for future generations.

You don’t have to accept burnout as the norm. You don’t have to be stuck in survival mode. The choices you make today in regards to how you protect your energy don’t just affect you; they ripple outward, shifting the health of your children, grandchildren, and beyond.

Your mitochondria are a gift from the women before you. How you take care of them and pass them along is up to you.

Bank of Oak Ridge

Announces Wesley Martin as President and CEO

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

for the Bank of Oak Ridge and Oak Ridge Bancshares, Inc., on October 1, 2024, confirmed the appointment of Wesley “Wes” Martin to President and Chief Executive Officer for the bank. They have also confirmed his appointment to the Bank Board of Directors and The Oak Ridge Bancshares, Inc. Board of Directors.

The appointment comes nearly nine years after Martin began his tenure with the bank. “I am excited for the opportunity to help lead the bank as we continue to grow and build relationships throughout North Louisiana,” stated Martin.

In addition to his nine years as Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer for Bank of Oak Ridge, Martin’s banking and financial experience includes experience as Vice President of Commercial Banking and Operations Manager. He is

also a classmate of 2018 from the Graduate School of Banking. He has earned the Certified Commercial Loan Officer (CCLO) and Certified Community Bank Compliance Officer (CCBCO) certifications from the Independent Community Bank Association. He is the 2020 Top 20 Under 40 for Northeast LA and received a 2024 Louisiana Young Banker Impact Award from the Louisiana Bankers Association. A graduate of Leadership Ouachita and Council for a Better Louisiana’s Leadership Louisiana programs, Martin’s commitment to excellence is unwavering.

A proud husband and father to his wife Emily and their two sons, Walker and Levi, Martin volunteers his time and talents supporting his church and other organizations such as the ULM Athletic Foundation, Boy Scouts of America, the Monroe Chamber of Commerce, Louisiana

Association of Business and Industry and the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children. Bank of Oak Ridge is a Louisiana chartered bank that began in 1910 and has proudly served Oak Ridge and the surrounding Morehouse Parish area for over 100 years. In 2016, the Bank of Oak Ridge expanded to the Monroe and West Monroe area, opening a loan production office and a full-service branch. The bank is proud to have received the Bauer Financial Inc. 5-Star superior rating every quarter since 1988 and the “Best of Bauer Bank” designation given to banks that have maintained the 5-star rating for 25 years or longer.

The Screening That Could Save Your Life

Danielle Raley, MD is Now Accepting New Patients

WHEN IT COMES TO PREVENTIVE care, we may think of annual checkups, vaccines and managing blood pressure. But one of the most important – and often overlooked – screenings is for colorectal cancer.

Why Colorectal Cancer Screening Matters

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the U.S., but it is also one of the most preventable. It often develops without noticeable symptoms, which means many people don’t realize they have it until the disease has progressed.

Danielle Raley, MD, a family medicine physician with St. Francis Medical Group, emphasizes that early detection can make all the difference.

“When caught early, colorectal cancer is highly treatable,” Dr. Raley says. “We recommend screening for all adults starting at age 45 — or earlier if you have a family history or other risk factors.”

Common risk factors include a diet high in

processed foods, smoking, heavy alcohol use, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. Some people also have a higher genetic risk due to conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or a family history of colorectal cancer.

Despite clear screening guidelines, nearly one in three adults who should be screened have not yet done so. Many delay screening due to fear, misconceptions or simply not realizing they are at risk.

Understanding Your Screening Options

There are multiple ways to screen for colorectal cancer, and the best test is the one you’re comfortable completing.

“The gold standard is a colonoscopy, which allows doctors to detect and remove polyps before they become cancerous,” Dr. Raley explains. “For those looking for a less-invasive option, stool-based tests are available as well.”

Colonoscopy screenings are recommended every 10 years for most adults, while stool-based tests need to be done more frequently. Your primary care provider can help you choose the

right screening method based on your health history and risk factors.

Screening Saves Lives

Colorectal cancer screening isn’t just about finding cancer — it’s about preventing it. Up to 90% of colorectal cancers are treatable when caught early, and regular screenings can reduce the risk of dying from the disease.

“This is one of the few cancers we can truly prevent with the right screening,” Dr. Raley says. “That’s why it’s so important to talk to your doctor and make a plan.”

Take Action Today

If you’ve been putting off your screening or aren’t sure where to start, Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to take action. St. Francis Health makes preventive care simple and accessible.

Screening is covered by most insurance plans. There’s no reason to wait — your health is worth it.

Ready to schedule your screening? Talk to your primary care provider or visit stfran.com.

A Legacy of Leadership

Janet S. Durden Retiring After 40 Years with United Way NELA

FOR FOUR DECADES, JANET S.

Durden has been a guiding force behind United Way of Northeast Louisiana (UWNELA), shaping the organization into a cornerstone of community support and transformation. Now, as she prepares to retire on March 31, 2025, Durden leaves behind a legacy defined by innovation, service, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Northeast Louisiana.

Durden’s journey with United Way began in her home state of Mississippi, where she served as Executive Director of United Way of Warren County. In 1985, she took the helm at UWNELA, steering the organization through periods of growth, crisis, and transformation. Under her leadership, UWNELA has expanded its impact, implementing strategic initiatives to address education, financial stability, and health—the pillars of a thriving community.

Throughout her tenure, Durden championed landmark programs that have left an indelible mark on the region. In 1987, she

oversaw the launch of First Call for Help, which evolved into United Way NELA 211, a vital information and referral service. She played a key role in expanding United Way’s reach into Lincoln, Union, and Jackson Parishes in 1999, and in 2005, she helped facilitate 211 services across Louisiana in response to Hurricane Katrina. More recently, in 2022, she oversaw the opening of UWNELA’s Financial Health Center in Monroe’s historic Miller-Roy Building, a hub providing crucial financial services to residents across 12 parishes.

Durden’s leadership extends far beyond United Way. She has served on numerous boards, most currently including those of St. Francis Medical Center and Louisiana Association of United Ways. Her dedication has been recognized with prestigious honors, including the Bert Hatten Community Impact Award, the Legacy Award from ULM’s Women’s Symposium, the Kitty Degree Humanitarian Award, and Grambling State University’s Martin Luther King Jr. Distinguished Leadership Award.

Reflecting on her career, Durden shared, “Leading United Way of Northeast Louisiana has been the honor and joy of a lifetime. For 43 years, I’ve been able to do what matters most to me—helping people and improving community. As I step into retirement, I am both grateful for this journey and excited for the future of United Way.”

As UWNELA prepares for this transition, community leaders have expressed their admiration for Durden’s impact. Board Chair Ashley West (Progressive Bank) praised her as the “heartbeat” of the organization, while Immediate Past Board Chair Daniel Taylor (Argent Financial Group) described her as a “pillar of the community” whose leadership has changed countless lives. Incoming Board Chair Dr. Alberta Green (ABG Professional Development Solutions) lauded Durden’s mentorship and character, emphasizing her influence on the region’s future.

Though Durden’s tenure at UWNELA is coming to a close, her legacy will continue to shape Northeast Louisiana for generations. Alongside her husband, Bob, she looks forward to spending more time with their blended family and remaining active in the community they have long served. As UWNELA embarks on a national search for its next leader, one thing is certain—Janet S. Durden’s impact will be felt for years to come.

Welcome to Egret Landing

Come Home to Peace and Tranquility

SITUATED BETWEEN BAYOU DESIARD

and Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Egret Landing offers an exceptional combination of natural beauty, modern convenience, and outdoor recreation. This thoughtfully designed residential community provides an unparalleled lifestyle for those who appreciate both luxury and leisure.

Nature lovers will find themselves at home with the abundance of scenic trails, waterways, and wildlife that surround the development. Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge, one of five managed refuges in the North Louisiana Refuges Complex, borders Egret Landing to the east and provides easy access to a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a boating or fishing enthusiast or simply enjoy peaceful walks in a pristine natural setting, Black Bayou has something for you. Visitors can explore its expansive learning center, relax on the observation deck, utilize the photo blind, or launch a boat for a day on the water. These

outstanding features are made possible thanks to the ongoing efforts of the “Friends of Black Bayou.”

On the other side of Egret Landing, Bayou DeSiard winds through The City of Monroe, offering a picturesque Louisiana bayou experience. Home to the nationally acclaimed ULM waterski team, it also serves as a refuge for numerous species of fish and birdlife. Along its banks, you’ll find some of Monroe’s most sought-after properties, with elegant homes, private decks, and boat docks blending seamlessly with the bayou’s natural charm. The historic Bayou DeSiard Country Club, a staple of Monroe since 1948, also calls this bayou home.

For those who love to fish, Bayou DeSiard is a hidden gem. It has been the site of prestigious fishing events, including the 2011 Bassmaster Junior World Championship. With its tranquil waters and excellent fishing spots, it remains a favorite among both seasoned anglers and

casual weekend fishers alike.

Beyond its natural beauty, Egret Landing is perfectly positioned for convenience. Located just minutes from Downtown Monroe, residents can enjoy a vibrant selection of restaurants, boutique shopping, and cultural attractions, including Monroe’s renowned art crawls. With quick access to I-20 and Hwy 165, everything you need is within easy reach.

In addition to its stunning setting, Egret Landing boasts fantastic community amenities. We’ve made room for you—90 lots to be exact— designed with spacious layouts and access to everything from a public boat ramp to a little league ballpark. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an active lifestyle, Egret Landing provides the perfect place to call home.

If you’d like to learn more or schedule a tour, call Melissa Evans, Realtor at 318-7897875 (Cell) or 318-362-0007 (Office). Email your318realestate@gmail.com or visit 2120 Cypress Street in West Monroe.

Là Authentic Chinese Food

On September 5, 2023, a new food trailer opened its window at Heard Freighthouse Food Park in Ruston. The small, bright white trailer stands out by way of its vermillion red logo featuring the eatery’s name—Là Authentic Chinese Food.

ARTICLE BY VANELIS RIVERA AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK

The circular sign is decorative and symbolic, featuring a Chinese dragon and phoenix in the traditional papercut style. The connection between the powerful symbols is meant to represent harmony and good fortune, apt imagery for a cuisine known for its use of harmonizing flavors. Inside the snug kitchen, expect to find owner Meng Li Calhoun tossing and flipping food in a scalding wok, seasoning and mixing ingredients just like her father taught her. More than just enticing flavors and aromas, this food truck is a tribute to family, heritage, and the promise of persistence.

“I did not plan any of this,” states Meng, originally from Hebi, a city in the Henan province of the People’s Republic of China. A central-inland region, Henan is considered one of the cradles of Chinese civilization and is also the site of the famed Shaolin Temple and the Huanghe (Yellow River), the second-longest river in China and the sixth-longest on the planet. At an early age, Meng was exposed to the intricacies of her region’s cuisine as her father was a cook and owned a few restaurants. Even so, the grueling work required of being a cook and maintaining restaurants was not appealing to her. Instead, she attended college and received a degree in English education. “I was supposed to be an English teacher somewhere else, but here,” she says, as her two children play on the steps of the old warehouse. Around 2015, she was a translator in Zhengzhou, the capital of Henan. There, she met her husband Jesse Calhoun who was teaching English at Zhengzhou University. “We met and fell in love,” she states.

Around 2019, the couple moved to Louisiana and settled in Farmerville in order to be close to Jesse’s father.

Despite Meng’s English background, the move was challenging. She had to adjust to the distinct dialect of the area and learn the intricacies of another culture and different customs. With limited work skills, she made do with jobs that she did not particularly enjoy. It was in this moment of stuckness that she returned to a place of comfort—Chinese food. On a whim, she took a chance and began selling lunch plates by online order. The people of Farmerville vehemently showed up. Soon her weekly orders started selling out, indicating it was time to get serious. So when a friend mentioned a vacancy at Heard Freighthouse Food Park, the couple met with owner Desi Bourgeois who was instantly enthusiastic about the new addition to the Heard food truck family.

Even with the thumbs up from Desi, the couple had a long journey ahead. Not only was Meng learning the complexities of fashioning a menu that works for a small kitchen setting, but initially she needed to find a commissary kitchen to expedite her menu. Fortunately, Roma Italian Bistro eagerly opened their kitchen to her. “The manager said they wanted us to have our dream come true, and I’m so grateful,” says Meng. During the early stages of development, Meng also received help that showed up from across the North Pacific Ocean. Her parents, eager to crystalize their daughter’s culinary dreams, arrived in Northeast Louisiana and immediately began looking for a food truck to purchase and Meng’s father took the time to further sharpen her cooking skills by teaching her

everything he learned as a cook. “That’s what Chinese parents do. We do everything for our kids,” Meng remarks. The week she opened her daughter named the food truck trailer “Rainbow Sparkly” and since then Meng has been proud of every single accomplishment that has resulted from following her intuition.

At Là Authentic Chinese Food, Meng is not just cooking Chinese food, she is making some of her favorite foods intimately connected to her hometown. “I like spicy food,” she says, mentioning the dried peppers she uses in some of her dishes. One of the spices she gets from China is cumin, which has an intense flavor based on the region it was cultivated in. Meng also makes all sauces in-house, most using a soy sauce base. Soy sauce is a prominent condiment in many Asian countries, particularly China, Japan, Korea, and Indonesia. Each country offers a variety of light, dark, and sweet flavors. Meng uses light soy sauce when needing full flavor and dark sauce for a saltier flavor, used best for meaty dishes. The richness of the dark soy sauce is delightfully noted in Meng’s jiaozi (pork dumplings) which are pan-fried and served with a dark soy sauce and dark vinegar mix, and sprinkled with sesame seeds.

“We eat a lot of noodles,” enthuses Meng about her preferred food item, adding, “I can eat noodles three times a day. I don’t have a problem with it.” Chinese cooking features a variety of noodles that can be made from rice flour, wheat flour, eggs, or starches (munch beans, potatoes, sweet potatoes, or tapioca). Meng’s menu features pork and vegetable stir-fried noodles using a wheat noodle similar to those used in lo mein, the Chinese dish where cooked meat and vegetables are tossed with a sauce. The other dishes on Meng’s daily

“I am the bridge between America and China,” she says. Meng indisputably exemplifies the result of hard work, mentioning the sight of customers happily savoring her food always fills her with motivation.

menu are served with rice or stir-fried rice. A crowd favorite, the pineapple chicken features a light sauce while the spicy chicken is made with a darker, more savory sauce. “My ingredients are really simple,” says Meng who prides herself in her bold and fresh flavors, a byproduct of what she credits to “wok magic.”

Developed several thousand years ago in China, the wok was used for various cooking methods, such as stir-frying, boiling, and braising. Its characteristic concave design allows heat to be distributed evenly, allowing ingredients to cook quickly and evenly. Because the pan can reach high temperatures, only oils with high-smoke points are used such as peanut oil, vegetable oil, and avocado oil. The particulars of high-heat cooking may be lost on some, but only because there is no point of comparison. Unlike the average American stove, stoves in China generally reach higher temperatures due to higher thermal unit output. This deviation was a point of mild contention for Meng, only because she wasn’t reaching the exact level or flavor she was accustomed to back in Henan. But as far as the American palate goes, Meng and her trusty wok deliver the consistently sharp flavors for which Chinese cuisine is celebrated.

For Meng, sharing the food of her upbringing has also meant learning about Chinese American fusions. For instance, she was surprised by the number of customers asking to add stir-fried rice to their meals. In China, stir-fried rice is typically served as is, and is not accompanied by additional meat or vegetable dishes. But she acquiesced and now has a

stir-fried option on her menu. Another American custom that shifted her food service was customers adding sweet and sour or soy sauce to already sauced dishes. “Why y’all need that?” She asks in jest. Though she will happily provide customers with any additional sauces, she does encourage sauce-driven diners to try just one bite of her dish before adding anything that could overpower the flavor.

It has been over a year, and Meng still has a spirit of gratitude, particularly thinking of the generous help and support she received from her husband’s family and friends. She compares starting a business to having a baby, mentioning that “every little accomplishment” elicits joy and pride, like finally showing up on Google Maps. Her mother and father’s sacrifices contributed to her impressive drive. She was the first of their children to go to college, the first to leave China, and now she has created a business that honors her family and cultural heritage. “I am the bridge between America and China,” she says. Meng indisputably exemplifies the result of hard work, mentioning the sight of customers happily savoring her food always fills her with motivation. She is doing what she loves and what she loves makes her happy.

Là Authentic Chinese Food is Meng’s testament to the adage, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” Her final thoughts fall back on her family and children. She wants them to know, “You want to do something? You keep on trying. Eventually, you will get it.”

Relax, Rejuvenate & Refresh With Our New Headspa

Spa Days at DermaMediQ

LOOKING FOR THE ULTIMATE WAY to unwind, refresh your skin, and revitalize your body? DermaMediQ, located on Lamy Lane in Monroe, invites you to experience their customizable Spa Days—a luxurious escape tailored just for you! Whether you’re craving a full-body massage, a refreshing facial, or a revitalizing foot detox, DermaMediQ offers the perfect combination of treatments to leave you feeling completely renewed.

Create Your Perfect Spa Day

At DermaMediQ, relaxation meets customization. Their Spa Days are designed to be as unique as you are, allowing you to choose from a variety of high-end services to create the ultimate pampering experience. Each Spa Day can include:

• Massage Therapy – Release tension and soothe sore muscles with a professional massage customized to your needs. Whether you prefer deep tissue, Swedish, or hot stone, their expert therapists will help melt away stress.

• Facials – Restore your skin’s natural glow with a luxurious facial. DermaMediQ offers hydrating, anti-aging, and acne-clearing treatments to suit every skin type.

• Foot Detox – Detoxify and refresh with an ionic foot bath designed to help remove impurities and promote overall well-being.

• Head-spa – A head massage experience that promotes scalp health while offering deep relaxation.

• Lunch Included – Because self-care should be savored, enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal as part of your Spa Day.

Beyond Relaxation – Advanced Aesthetic Services

While Spa Days focus on relaxation and rejuvenation, DermaMediQ is also known for its cutting-edge aesthetic treatments designed to enhance your natural beauty. Take your selfcare to the next level by combining your spa experience with their expert cosmetic services, such as:

• Botox & Fillers – Smooth fine lines, restore

lost volume, and achieve a youthful, refreshed look with expertly administered injectables.

• Skin Rejuvenation Treatments – From microneedling to laser therapies, DermaMediQ offers advanced treatments to improve skin texture, tone, and overall radiance.

• Body Contouring & Anti-Aging Solutions –Whether you’re looking to sculpt, tighten, or refresh, their cutting-edge treatments provide real, lasting results.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Spa Days at DermaMediQ aren’t just for personal relaxation; they’re also perfect for birthday celebrations, bridal parties, girls’ day out, or even a much-needed solo escape. With customizable options, you can design the ideal experience for yourself or your group.

Prioritize self-care and indulge in a day of pure relaxation at DermaMediQ. Their expert team is ready to help you create a Spa Day that meets your specific needs, leaving you feeling rejuvenated from head to toe.

Abide in The Word

The Vine of Northeast Louisiana

THE “ABIDE IN THE WORD” EVENT was an incredible two-day in-person gathering! Attendees had the chance to connect with fellow believers, learn, and be inspired. The event featured powerful worship, engaging speakers, and meaningful discussions. Whether participants were seasoned Bible scholars or just beginning their spiritual journey, the event was designed for everyone. The transformative power of God’s Word was experienced in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and it was an amazing opportunity for attendees to grow in their faith and build lasting connections.

The keynote speaker for this year’s event was Hallie Dye, a wife and mother of three spirited children. Hallie, who is also the host of the Saltworks podcast and author of You’re Still A Good Mom: Motherhood Surrendered to the One Who Never Fails (Even When You Feel You Have), shared her passion

for teaching God’s Word. She encouraged members of the church to run the race set before them with boldness and courage. When Hallie isn’t speaking, she can be found spending time with her family, driving kids around, or reading a fiction book before bed.

Other guest speakers included Kirstyn Doughty, Dr. Emily Jones, Mindy Lancaster, and Lisa Robertson.

• Kirstyn Doughty, a pastor’s wife and mother, was called to ministry at the age of 22 and has had a passion for girls’ and women’s ministry ever since.

• Dr. Emily Jones, Clinical Director for the Center for Children and Families, holds a Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor.

• Mindy Lancaster, a Heartfelt Ministries speaker, shared her story. With over 20

years of experience in the dental field, Mindy has built relationships with her patients and shared the love of Jesus with them, letting God use her to touch others.

• Lisa Robertson, who has served in full and volunteer ministry in West Monroe, LA, for over 35 years, brought valuable insights and wisdom.

The event was sponsored by The Vine of Northeast Louisiana, a non-profit organization focused on issues surrounding pregnancy and maternity. The Vine provides educational and charitable support to women of childbearing age, helping them make lifeaffirming decisions and showing them the love of Jesus Christ. The Vine exists to disciple women as they choose life for the unborn, and find hope and a future for themselves and their children.

The Vine wants to extend a special thank you to the sponsors of Abide, 2025: Flower Sponsor- Kim Crawford and Holly Gibbs, Pollinator Sponsor- Community Pharmacy, and Sprout Sponsors- Bernice Pharmacy, CD Services, First Baptist Church Sterlington, Mark Johnson and Sons Plumbing, North Monroe Baptist Church and Stephanie Walker. You can learn more about their work at thevineofnela.org.

I REMEMBER

article by PAUL LIPE

Iremember an instance that occurred over 40 years ago, one that impacted our lives beyond measure. Yeah, that took place in the coaches office at North Carolina State basketball arena. Our family had traveled to North Carolina where we were celebrating Christmas with our relatives. While we were there, Jonathan received an invitation to watch a basketball practice at NC state, to meet some of the players, and the coach, Jim Valvano. In addition to Jonathan and I, my father-in-law also accompanied us on the trip. After practice we had a visit with some of the players and then with Coach Valvano. In his office he had assembled a number of things reminiscent of his successes as a basketball coach. Chief of which was his championship ring and his wedding band. As he was talking with Jonathan, he stood up, faced him, and said, “See this?” as he was pointing to his championship ring which he had won two years earlier. He said, “This ring was the hardest to get, and then, pointing to his wedding band, he said this one is far more important.” He had me in his pocket from that point on!

Jonathan visited several other colleges, including LSU, Georgia, Davidson, Louisiana tech, and Northeast Louisiana. And the final analysis, he decided to pursue an education in pharmacy rather than enjoying basketball for four more years that proved to be a wise choice because he had unimaginable success and provided adequately for his family.

For Coach Valvano family came first. We are talking the same route for our family and the results have been satisfying and rewarding. Lessons we have learned from various sources can be helpful and fulfilling.

The Munchkin Market Spring Sale

New Location for 2025

MUNCHKIN MARKET RETURNS

March 10 - 15, 2025 at a new location, with bigger savings! Families, get ready! Munchkin Market, the biggest and best kids’ consignment sale in the region, is back and better than ever! Mark your calendars for March 10-15, 2025, at our new location—Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 100 North 18th Street, Monroe, Louisiana. This is your chance to save big on kids’ essentials while embracing smart, sustainable shopping!

Huge Savings – Don’t Miss Out!

With rising costs, every dollar counts. Children’s clothing prices have increased nearly 6% in the last year, putting a strain on family budgets. But at Munchkin Market, you’ll find thousands of high-quality, gently used kids’ items at up to 70% off retail prices. From clothing and shoes to toys, books, and baby gear, everything you need is under one

roof—at a fraction of the cost!

Sustainable Shopping Made Easy!

Munchkin Market isn’t just about savings—it’s about making a difference! Shopping secondhand helps reduce waste and keep quality items in use longer. According to the EPA, reusing textiles significantly cuts down landfill waste. By shopping at Munchkin Market, you’re making an eco-friendly choice while scoring amazing deals!

Sell and Earn– Consignor Spots Filling Fast!

Turn outgrown clothes, toys, and gear into cash. Consignors earn money while decluttering and get early shopping access before the public. This is the perfect way to recycle your child’s wardrobe while making extra income. But hurry—spots are filling up fast!

Bigger Space, Better Shopping Experience!

With our move to Mt. Zion Baptist

Church, we’re bringing you more space, a smoother shopping experience, and an even bigger selection of must-have items!

Don’t Wait – Join Us!

“Munchkin Market is about bringing families together to save, earn, and give back,” say co-founders Amie Smith and India Gregg. “We can’t wait to welcome everyone to our new location for our biggest and best sale yet!”

Act now and conveniently register as a consignor or grab early bird tickets at www.monroemunchkinmarket.com

Don’t miss your chance to save big, shop sustainably, and earn cash. We’ll see you at Munchkin Market!

For more information go to www. monroemunchkinmarket.com or email us at monroemunchkinmarket@gmail.com

Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC

Commemorating Remarkable Women

MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER!

Women educating and inspiring generations is the dominant concept of the 2025 Women’s History Month. We are delighted to honor the women across the nation who have made significant contributions to their families and local communities. In 1978 the late President Jimmy Carter declared Women’s History Week to esteem the contributions of women in America. In 1987 the observance of Women’s History Week transcended into Women’s History Month as formally recognized in the United States.

Recently Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC was privileged to design and implement a fabulous birthday celebration at the Lotus Club of Monroe Louisiana for Ms. Sonjia Kinsey. Ms. Kinsey is a well-known and highly respected businesswoman and owner of Sonjia’s Food Manager Certification Class (sonjakinseytrainingsolutions.com).Ms. Kinsey is a certified ServSafe instructor and

proctor providing stellar services in Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas. Ms. Kinsey also performs kitchen restaurant inspections to ensure the health and safety of customers and employees. I can attest that Ms. Kinsey is enthusiastic about her work and delivers excellent training. As a result of completing her course, I became a certified ServSafe Manager, a member of The National Restaurant Association, and the recipient of the 2024 National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation Scholarship. Ms. Kinsey has impacted many lives and is a devoted mother to her son. Ms. Kinsey is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. and the Northeast Louisiana Black Chamber of Commerce. I am immensely proud to honor Ms. Sonjia Kinsey as a community resource during Women’s History Month 2025.

Proper etiquette is a coveted attribute of a lady. As a certified etiquette consultant, I often remind my clients that “every female

is a woman, but every woman is not a lady.” Holding fast to the theme of educating and inspiring generations, I am committed to imparting a solid foundation of protocol, life skills, and emotional intelligence to all who desire a more refined lifestyle. Remarkable women must master the art of effective communication to uplift and mentor those who are often overlooked and excluded from society. Moving Forward Together is best exemplified by the giving of one’s time, talents, and resources to those who are less fortunate. Volunteering to serve at local food banks, libraries, and community events is the most desirable example of Women Educating and Inspiring Generations.

A well-bred woman values highly how she ambulates, dines, and respects those she encounters. Self-introductions with the lead words: “Hello; I am...” is an indicator of refinement that garners the respect and attention of your audience. Watha’s Wonderful World LLC provides an extensive Effective Communication and Business Etiquette course that propels customers into an elevated position of social grace and elegance. The Dining Etiquette and Tea Party Etiquette courses combine visual and kinesthetic techniques overflowing with class and panache. Please contact Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC at (318) 647-4495 or The Lotus Club at (318) 323-8550 to schedule your fine dining experience today!

Meredith’s Musings

SOCIAL PERFORMANCES

article by MEREDITH MCKINNIE

Of my two daughters, the oldest is the performer (thus far). I noticed this about her as a baby. Before she even reached 12 months, her mouth stayed stretched across her face, proudly displaying toothless gums. She laughed incessantly, loved being watched, and rewarded attention by holding onto it. Don’t look away, spectator, my next trick is just around the corner. I recognize myself in her actions. I learned to smile without someone having to ask me. When I pass a stranger, I feel a gravitational pull on my face - eye contact and a smile, then a quick look down at the floor as if there is anything interesting there. People always complimented my pretty smile, commentary I loathed as a teenagerinterpretation being that the rest of my body was not. In retrospect, I wonder if my bevy of smiles was a plea to the recipients, “I come in kindness. Please don’t make fun of me.”

While on the way to school last year, my oldest casually said as we approached dropoff, “Time to put my smile on.” I got that sinking feeling in my stomach. She’s already learned to perform. I realize that the root of social interaction in the South is politeness, a practice especially imposed on young girls. And I want my daughter to be kind and polite, to accommodate others, but not to lose herself in the process. Like everything I’ve discovered about raising children, it’s a delicate balance. Before any planned performance, such as a

recital or a showcase for gymnastics, I’ll notice her sitting stiff in the lineup, eyes focused on the stage, mentally preparing herself as if she will be judged. I like the mental focus but worry about her fear of judgment. When completing her homework, tracing letters and counting frogs, she’ll intently mark her paper and then ask what grade I would give the work. I stress that her practicing is the point, that the grade doesn’t matter. I don’t want her to think of learning as transactional, though our education system will teach her that it is.

When she dances around her room, prancing in front of her little sister, making sure she is watched, she’ll routinely ask, “Am I the best dancer in the world?” The mother in me wants to scream, “Yes!” The realist in me wants her to know that preferences are subjective. I want her to dance because she loves to dance, yet I also want her to do her best. Is it fair to ask for her best without suggesting she is the best? Am I setting her up to seek perfection? The world may knock her down with realism but it will reward a woman who strives for perfection. But will she love herself? Imparting that nuanced understanding of the world and our place in it to a 7-year-old means indulging half-truths, dosing her with what she can understand. I never know if its enough.

My youngest daughter does not smile on command, often turning her cheek if one slips out. She shies away from kisses and

doesn’t seek the spotlight. She’s content to let Sister shine. When she started school, I worried about how she would interact with others. Would she make friends? Would she be included? School was a relatively easy experience for me. I always made friends and adapted to various social circles; Big Sister is proving to be the same. Yet I wonder, how much of our acceptance is that willingness to perform politeness, to smile on command, to make sure we’re acknowledged? Does the world make space for us because we insist upon it? Are the default performers masking insecurity?

Parenting does allow us to “see the world through a child’s eyes.” But I’m learning, it also allows me to see myself, my childhood, from a unique perspective. No, my oldest daughter is not me, but I recognize Little Me manifesting in her behavior. When she stamps her foot, I sigh, both frustrated and amused. I would do the same and sometimes still do. Little Sister makes a hurt face and sulks into a corner, rarely demanding her desires be met. If she dances, it’s never because we asked her to and music is optional. She moves when and how she wants to. This school year I will observe if her inclinations change, if long periods of social interaction fashions a performer. I secretly hope it doesn’t. I hope she saves her smiles for the most deserving and dances to the music only she can hear. I hope when she dares to smile, it’s because her heart is.

Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC Hosts A Night of Elegance

On January 15, 2025, Watha’s Wonderful World, LLC hosted an elegant evening that combined dining etiquette education with a delightful dinner at the Lotus Club in Monroe. Guests learned American and European dining techniques in a welcoming class, which culminated in a graduation ceremony. Afterward, attendees showcased their newfound skills in a charming setting, enjoying a delicious meal while networking.

1 Carolyn Carter, Temika Cooks, Shakita Hays, Erica Hill, Katrina Hills, Kathy Hughes, Sonja Kinsey, Dr. Tonya Hunter, Miracle Jenkins, Keishonza Jackson, Dr. LaTina Johnson, Demetrius Wilson and Ora Greely 2 Erica Hill and Demetrius Wilson 3 Demetrius Wilson and Carolyn Carter 4

Feeling Blue In All The Good Ways

At Revival Design

HAS THE WINTER WEATHER HAD you feeling blue? Well, once in a blue moon or sometimes out of the blue we must shift focus and prioritize the things that bring us joy in life.

Blue hues add a sense of tranquility and serenity. Blue symbolizes loyalty, wisdom and nobility. In some religions and customs, blue is associated with love and divine joy. In the Catholic Church, the Virgin Mary is often shrouded with blue to distinguish holiness, humility, and virtue.

Blue is a versatile color that creates a calming and relaxing atmosphere in interior design, and it is a popular choice. Soft blues are good for bedrooms, navy blue adds depth and drama to living rooms and home offices, and turquoise is a vibrant and energetic shade of blue.

Painting the walls, doors, and molding the same shade creates a great monochromatic

palette for a room. The richer shades add an air of sophistication. Deep blues on an accent wall bring depth and drama.

Pairing blue with white has always made for a timeless design. The Portuguese and delft tile are historically blue and white. Chinoiserie blue-and-white porcelains date back to before the 14th Century.

However, they weren’t always popular. With the advent of the Ming Dynasty in 1368, blue and white ware was shunned for a time by the Court, especially under the Hongwu and Yongle Emperors, as being too foreign in inspiration. Blue and white ware did not accord with Chinese taste at that time, the early Ming work in fact described blue wares as “exceedingly vulgar”. Blue and white porcelain, however, came back to prominence in the 15th century with the Xuande Emperor and developed from then to the present day. It has since influenced blue-and-white in

porcelains and potteries in Japan, Korean, Vietnam, India, France, Italy and Mexico.

Blue is a great color for interiors, especially in dark spaces. It injects a space with lightness and color! If there’s a lot of natural light, blue will make a room gleam. And even if there aren’t many windows, blue will naturally draw light and color out of a dark room.

A blue room is good for your health. Blue rooms have been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate, and although it opposes the “feeling blue” idiom, living in a blue room has been proven in multiple studies to help people with depression. Blue helps us sleep too.

Blue neutralizes melatonin levels meaning that it’s a refreshing and energizing color when our melatonin is low in the morning, and it’s a soothing and relaxing color at night when our melatonin is high and we’re trying to fall asleep. Approximately 71% of the Earth is covered in water which solidifies the joy and tranquility most of us experience from the sight and sound of it.

Add a little blue to your life and space with our amazing selection of finds in blue tones at Revival Design. We are located at 300 Walnut Street in Historic Downtown Monroe. 318-381-8191. We look forward to seeing you.

Time For a Dental Checkup?

Schedule an Appointment Today

AT BAYOU DENTAL GROUP, WE BELIEVE IN THE importance of routine dental care. Ideally, we would love to see each of our patients twice a year for dental cleanings and exams. However, we understand that life can get busy. With work, school, and family obligations, finding time for regular dental visits may fall to the bottom of your priority list.

There are many reasons why people might miss their dental appointments. Whether it’s a packed schedule, dental anxiety, or feeling embarrassed about your oral health after a long hiatus, it’s important to remember that professional dental care is crucial for achieving and maintaining a healthy smile.

That’s why Dr. David Finley, Dr. PJ Henderson and our team of skilled hygienists at Bayou Dental Group in Monroe, LA, want to emphasize the importance of routine checkups. There’s no better time than now to make your dental health a priority.

Why Regular Dental Checkups Are Essential

Gum disease is a silent attacker, often advancing without noticeable symptoms until it has already caused significant damage. This is where professional dental care becomes vital.

Our Monroe dental office is staffed with highly-trained hygienists equipped with the experience and tools necessary to give your teeth and gums the deep cleaning they need. Removing plaque and tartar buildup in those hard-to-reach areas is essential, and it’s something that can’t be fully achieved with brushing and flossing at home.

Drs. Finley and Henderson will thoroughly examine your mouth, using advanced technology like digital X-rays to detect issues that aren’t visible to the naked eye. We also provide dental sealants and fluoride treatments for extra protection against cavities and decay, even for adults.

These professional services are key to maintaining a vibrant, healthy smile and preventing the deterioration of your oral health.

Prevention: Your Best Defense for a Healthy Smile

The strongest defense against harmful bacteria is prevention. While daily brushing and flossing are critical, they only cover part of what’s needed to keep your teeth and gums in top shape.

That’s where we come in. At Bayou Dental Group, our mission is to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. However, we can only do so if you commit to regular checkups and cleanings. Without consistent professional care, your efforts at home may not be enough to ensure lasting oral health.

Take charge of your dental health today—schedule your next checkup with Bayou Dental Group. Let us help you keep your smile healthy and bright!

BAYOU ICON

Christine Wong Rambo

Once upon a time Christine Wong Rambo was a five-year-old little girl, boarding a Pan American flight from Hong Kong to the United States immigrating with her family. This bright youngster had taught herself English by watching Saturday morning cartoons. Christine and her family eagerly embraced America and proudly became U.S. citizens. She would go on to become the first person in her immediate family to go to college. Today Christine is a very successful business owner (she’s President/Owner of Upsize Marketing Strategies) and a vital part of our community. She is also a devoted wife, caring mother, loving daughter, and enthusiastic volunteer who has faced the same challenges of balancing family and career as have so many of us. Christine learned the art of flexibility at an early age and has always adapted her priorities to meet the moment, recognizing that every challenge offers an opportunity for growth. She firmly believes that everything that a person experiences – good or bad -- contributes collectively to define that person’s life. Because of her remarkable work helping others to learn to harness economic development for their own businesses, and because of her unselfish support of this region and beyond, Christine Wong Rambo is our March BayouIcon.

ARTICLE BY GEORGIANN POTTS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK

Christine Wong Rambo’s story begins in the early 1900’s when her grandfather Luan Ng earned a college education in California – a rare occurrence in those days. With degree in hand, he returned to his home in China and started his family. According to Christine, in the 1950’s the family moved to Hong Kong – at the time a British colony -- to flee Communist persecutions against anyone who didn’t conform to the Communist Doctrine. Christine was born in Hong Kong, becoming by birth a British National.

In 1974 when Christine was five, the family left everything behind to begin a new life in America. “My parents’ proudest moment was when they received their U.S. citizenship and, subsequently, all of their children became U.S. citizens as well,” Christine remembers.

Education and Cultural Convergence

During Christine’s elementary through high school years, the family lived in Maryland outside of Washington, D.C. She wanted to be an author during those early years, but Christine remembers an experience that changed that career goal. She participated in a school-based academic competition at her local TV station in Washington D.C. “I was awed by the local television station: the cameras, bright lights, and studio audience,” she recalls. “Our elementary school was competing against other schools in the D.C. Metropolitan Area in an academic bowl.”

Following that initial encounter with professional broadcast media, Christine was fortunate to attend a science and technology magnet school in Oxon Hill. It was there that she took a journalism class that she says changed the course of her life. As a part of that class Christine wrote for the school newspaper, a task that “. . . sparked my interest in journalism and my desire to pursue the truth.” Christine was a high school finalist for the Baltimore Sun Journalism Scholarship which cemented her desire to study journalism at the university level.

Christine pursued her dream and attended The American University (AU) in Washington D.C. where she earned her B.A. in Communications with an emphasis on Broadcast Journalism. Perhaps not surprisingly, she minored in International Relations. She was active in student government, and enjoyed working with students from across the world. “My friendships with other young people from around the globe opened my eyes to different perspectives and cultures. These are friendships that have lasted a lifetime,” Christine says.

It was the 1980’s, following the Watergate era, when investigative journalism was an important part of the profession. “This was a time when journalists served as the watchdog against government corruption,” Christine remembers. (Later in her career, Christine would work as a reporter and anchor at KNOE-TV. While there, she would receive a Louisiana Associated Press Award for Investigative Journalism.)

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE

In 2024, JLM recognized Christine’s contributions by awarding her the Louise Seymour Community Impact Award - given to a JLM member “for exemplifying the purpose of the Junior League and devoting her life to community service with an unselfish dedication and inspiration to all.”

Christine graduated from AU in 1991 and began her professional career working as a researcher/ assignment editor at Fox affiliate WBFF in Baltimore. In 1992 she accepted a position at KNOE-TV in Monroe as a reporter. “I covered everything from the school board to Monroe City Council to crime and the courts,” Christine says. She spent six years there, becoming a weekend anchor and earning three Associated Press Awards for Investigative Journalism and Feature Storytelling. “Telling our stories, shedding light on community problems, and uncovering corruption or crimes fueled my sense of justice and love for community development,” Christine says.

In 1998, Christine began working for the ABC affiliate KTBS in Shreveport. She was worked as a weekend anchor/reporter. “I chased tornadoes and wildfires and covered crime and politics in Northwest Louisiana,” she remembers. While there she continued adding to her list of awards. She earned a National Radio Television and Digital News Association (RTNDA) Unity Award.

A Public Defender Changes Everything

While Christine was covering the court beat as a reporter for KNOE-TV, she met public defender Wilson Rambo. A mutual friend played matchmaker. Today, after 26 years of marriage, Christine says that she couldn’t have had a better life partner. “Wilson has always supported me in my career and encouraged me to pursue my dreams,” she adds.

Four years after their marriage, Wilson and Christine learned that they were expecting their first child. It was a turning point in Christine’s life and career, as she realized that balancing being a wife, a mother, and a daughter with an active career was the biggest challenge she had faced. “Society tells women we can do it all, but the reality is it is very difficult to do it all,” Christine says. “Everything has its seasons, and we have to accept that at different times in our lives certain things must take priority.”

At the same time, Wilson decided to run for District Judge and was ready to move his career forward. To support her husband’s

campaign, Christine – who was six months pregnant at the time – went door-to-door in the summer heat knocking on doors, handing out fans at football games, and attending countless events with him. “I think we got the sympathy vote because of how pregnant I was at the time,” Christine explains with a laugh. “Our daughter Shelby was born two days before Wilson’s swearing-in ceremony. She was a part of the campaign, so she didn’t want to miss the ceremony.”

As much as she enjoyed her television journalism career, Christine willingly stepped away for four years to rear her children, Shelby and Jarred, who are two years apart. Christine spent her free time during this period as a volunteer, working with nonprofit organizations that were making a difference in the community. She worked with the Junior League of Monroe and the Monroe Garden Club plus accepted board positions for the Silver Waters Girl Scouts, Strauss Little Theater, and Twin City Ballet Company.

A Career Twist

Two years after Jarred’s birth, Christine

rejoined the workforce, but not as a journalist. “Being a roving reporter just wasn’t conducive to motherhood, so when I returned to work, I needed a nine-tofive job,” explained Christine. She led the marketing and communications effort for the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC), the state office for which was located at the University of Louisiana at Monroe. She marketed a network of 10 centers focused on supporting entrepreneurs and small business expansion. It was here that Christine discovered a passion for entrepreneurship. Mary Lynn Wilkerson, LSBDC State Director, was an important mentor for Christine as she embarked on this new career path.

It was during this period that Christine saw firsthand how people would risk their life savings to pursue their dream of owning their own business. “That to me was the American Dream – being your own boss and being the master of your own destiny. I credit the LSBDC as the turning point in my life.”

Working in economic development presented Christine with numerous opportunities to use her communications and marketing skills. “Creating economic opportunities empowers people to create a better life for themselves and their families, and is an impactful way to give back to the community,” Christine says.

After Christine had worked with the LSBDC for over two years, the North Louisiana Economic Partnership (NLEP) came calling. This regional economic development organization served 14 North Louisiana parishes and needed a Vice President of Marketing/Communications. Christine accepted the position and spent the next decade recruiting businesses to North Louisiana and learning through this

Top left: Christine working as a reporter at KNOE-TV in Monroe. Top Right: Christine being presented the IEDC Best in Economic Development Award. Bottom Right: Jarred, Shelby, Judge Wilson Rambo and Christine Rambo. Photo by Patty Stewart Photography.

invaluable experience. She became Senior Vice President of Business Development, Marketing, and Investor Relations during her time there.

Through her NLEP work, Christine helped successfully recruited 66 economic development projects that generated $1.86 billion in capital investment and 5,267 new direct jobs. During this very busy decade, Christine became a Certified Economic Developer as designated by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) – one of only 1,150 worldwide -- and earned an MBA from ULM in May of 2020. Christine was awarded an international Excellence in Economic Development Award by IEDC. Christine’s 30 years’ worth of experiences working first in broadcast journalism, and then combined with those spent working with the LSBDC and NLEP, beautifully prepared Christine for her next career move: starting her own company.

A Dream Becomes Reality

Like millions of Americans did during the 2020 pandemic, Christine took time to reassess her priorities, take note of where she was in her life and career, and then decided on a new direction. “Like so many, I took a look at what I wanted in life and decided it was now or never to take a leap of faith and start my own business,” Christine admits.

Friends, family, professional mentors, and colleagues all encouraged Christine to go for it. As always, Wilson was her biggest cheerleader and supporter. He had stood by her during the long nights when she was working on her MBA and then cheered her on when she launched Upsize Marketing Strategies. “He also kept me hopeful during that lean first year,” Christine says. Upsize allows Christine to work with

a national and global network of other economic development consultants, site selectors, urban planners, community development, communications, and other professionals. “We often collaborate and partner on projects. My global network of friends and colleagues keeps me encouraged and inspired by the work,” Christine says. Her company’s value proposition is simple and direct: “Upsize is an ethical consultancy focused on growing organizations and communities to help create more inclusive opportunities for all people.”

One of Christine’s goals with Upsize is for it to remain a boutique firm that continues to focus on the value that it brings to its clients rather than on making profits. This value-driven and customerfocused company is Christine’s chance – at last – to decide for herself how and where she spends her time. One of her clients – a threecounty region in Northwest Colorado, is coping with a coal transition brought about by public policy and climate changes that will jeopardize 2,800 jobs. Christine has been working with the region for three years, helping them diversify the economy, create new job sectors, and support workforce and community development.

All Work and No Play? No Way!

Although Christine’s career has never been as vibrant and exciting as now, nevertheless she finds time to enjoy her life away from work. Recently she and Wilson took a 26th anniversary vacation to the Grand Caymans. There she says they got a chance to “unplug and focus just on each other.” The two hope to travel to Australia and New Zealand someday.

Both of their children are now adults and living full lives. Their daughter, Shelby, is a professional ballet dancer with Nevada Ballet Theatre in Las Vegas. She has studied dancing since age two and decided on ballet as her career while still quite young. While a

senior in high school, Shelby did year-round ballet training with the Sacramento Ballet. She then trained at Ballet West in Salt Lake City before auditioning for professional ballet companies. She has been dancing with Nevada Ballet Theatre for two years while earning her bachelor’s degree in business online from LSU-Shreveport. In her “spare time” she works at Upsize with Christine as the company’s social media content creator.

Their son Jarred is attending Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond where he is majoring in Engineering Technology with a concentration in Mechatronics. Like his sister, Jarred is also interested in the Arts. He plays in the marching band at Southeastern, and plays trombone, baritone, and guitar. Christine reports that he is currently teaching himself how to play the banjo.

Christine is quite a good cook. Because of her heritage, she grew up cooking Chinese food. After she moved to Louisiana, she discovered Louisiana cuisine. She has learned to make many of the dishes that Wilson loves including gumbo and fresh garden peas. She says that her signature dish is spicy cabbage (the recipe for which can be found in the Junior League of Monroe’s latest cookbook).

Besides cooking, Christine also enjoys gardening, DIY projects, yoga, hiking, and reading. “I especially like to work with my hands since I spend so much time in my head,” she says with a laugh. On her wish list of things to do when she retires is babysitting with her future grandchildren.

Christine also carves out time to continue volunteering. She is currently a board member for the United Way of Northeast Louisiana, and the advisory committee for the Louisiana Small Business Development Centers. The Junior League of Monroe (JLM) holds a special place in her heart. She created a program with JLM which was designed to combat intergenerational poverty. The program –Tools and Literacy for Children (TLC) – which has been adapted to an adopt-a-school program. In 2024, JLM recognized her contributions by awarding her the Louise Seymour Community Impact Award. This lifetime achievement award is given to a JLM member “for exemplifying the purpose of the Junior League and devoting her life to community service with an unselfish dedication and inspiration to all.”

Looking Toward the Future

Christine offers a cautionary word about technology in business. She acknowledges that it is revolutionizing her industry so rapidly that much of what is known today will be obsolete in only a short time. For example, Christine points out that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will make it possible for a small firm to do the work – and have the international reach – of a much larger firm. “However, AI can also strip away creativity and individuality if we’re not careful,” Christine warns.

When asked recently what her life will look like in five or ten years, Christine’s reply was exactly what those who know her life story would expect. She said, “I’m not sure, and that’s part of the fun – not knowing and taking life as it comes.”

Denzel Washington (American actor, director, and producer) wrote, “At the end of the day it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished … It’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.” That comment describes Christine’s life story. While she has accomplished much, she has also lifted up countless individuals through her career as well as through her volunteerism.

Christine Wong Rambo has already given back far more than most people ever will, and she has no plans to stop now. Because of her remarkable work helping others to learn to harness economic development for their own businesses, and because of her unselfish support of this region and beyond, Christine Wong Rambo is our March BayouIcon.

Dr. Nathan Morris, MD

Functional Medicine Expert & Medical Detective

DR. NATHAN MORRIS, MD, IS A RENOWNED functional medicine physician dedicated to uncovering the root causes of chronic health conditions. Born in West Monroe, Louisiana, and raised in Rayville, Louisiana, Dr. Morris grew up with strong family values and a deep connection to community wellness. He pursued his biology degree at Mississippi College before earning his Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Louisiana State University (LSU) Medical School in Shreveport. He completed his family practice residency at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Ohio, where he served as Chief Resident, further honing his leadership and patient care skills.

After residency, Dr. Morris was recruited to Oxford, Ohio, where he established a thriving family practice that expanded into a 10-provider clinic. A personal experience shifted his career focus—his son’s autism diagnosis prompted him to explore functional medicine. Through dedicated research into diet, supplementation, and lifestyle interventions, he found ways to significantly improve his son’s health, leading to remission of autism symptoms. This experience inspired him to fully integrate functional medicine into his practice.

In 2008, Dr. Morris opened a functional medicine practice in Oxford, Ohio focusing on addressing the root causes of disease, and in this pursuit became a Certified Functional Medicine practitioner by the Institute of Functional medicine in 2015. His patient-centered, evidence-based approach gained recognition within the medical community which led to new opportunities, including his appointment in 2018 as Chief Medical Advisor for Pure Encapsulations, a leading provider of professional-grade supplements. In this role, he developed an innovative genetic platform to personalize supplementation and improve health outcomes based on genetic profiles.

As a sought-after speaker, Dr. Morris has lectured extensively in the U.S. and internationally on genetics, inflammation, gut health, Lyme disease, mold toxicity, and hormone management. His expertise in these often-overlooked health areas has made him a respected authority in functional medicine. He strongly believes that “MD” should stand for “Medical Detective,” prioritizing investigative approaches to uncover and treat underlying health issues.

After practicing for the past five years in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Dr. Morris will return to Monroe, Louisiana, in March 2025 to be closer to his family and the love of his life, Lindsey Clark Lowe. This homecoming allows him to reconnect with his Southern roots while continuing his mission in functional medicine. He looks forward to horseback riding, managing his farm, and reconnecting with the people that have given him so much.

Dr. Morris is eager to bring his expertise back to Northeast Louisiana, giving back to the community that shaped him. His commitment remains unwavering: to empower individuals to achieve optimal health through functional medicine and rootcause treatment strategies.

Refresh Your Home

With Harrison Paint Co. & Building B

SPRING IS THE SEASON of renewal, and what better way to refresh your home than with a fresh coat of paint? Harrison Paint Co., a trusted name in Shreveport, has everything you need to breathe new life into your spaces. Whether you’re looking for a bold color statement or a soft, serene palette, their expert team can guide you to the perfect shade for your walls, trim, and accents.

This year marks a special milestone for Harrison Paint Co.—their 75th anniversary! Since 1950, they have been committed to providing top-quality paints and exceptional service to the community.

For those looking to stay on trend this year, consider the Benjamin Moore Color of the Year: Cinnamon Slate. This warm, earthy tone adds sophistication and depth to any space, making it an excellent choice for a spring refresh!

But why stop at paint? For a complete home refresh, step into Building B, Harrison Paint Co.’s custom interior design boutique showroom. Located in Shreveport, Building B is a haven for those looking to elevate their interiors with high-end finishes. The boutique show room features a stunning collection of luxury wallpapers, designer fabrics, exquisite rugs, stylish hardware, and much more. From contemporary to classic, their curated selections will inspire your next home transformation.

As ArkLaTex’s only custom interiors workroom, Building B is equipped to bring customers’ design visions to life with careful attention to detail. Their expert craftsmanship ensures that each element of your home is tailored to your exact specifications, making your space truly unique and personalized.

Spring is the perfect time to revitalize your surroundings, and Harrison Paint Co. makes it easy with top-quality paints and personalized service. Pair your new paint with the unique offerings at Building B, and your home will feel fresh, stylish, and completely transformed for the season ahead.

Visit any of Harrison Paint Co.’s locations today to explore their premium paint selections, and be sure to stop by Building B for the finishing touches that make all the difference. Your dream home refresh starts here!

Celebrate 318 Day

Show Your Love for Ouachita Parish

MARCH 18TH IS JUST AROUND the corner, and that means it’s time to celebrate all the wonderful things about living in Ouachita Parish! 318 Day was created as a way for our community to come together and show our pride for the place we call home. From fun activities to community events, there are plenty of ways to join in the festivities. Here’s how you can take part in this special day:

Contribute to the 318 Time Capsule

Leave your mark on history! On March 18, we will bury a time capsule filled with responses from 318 community members, capturing all the reasons why we love Ouachita Parish. This isn’t just any time capsule—it’s set to be opened in exactly 31 years and eight months on December 18, 2056. Imagine future generations uncovering your thoughts and memories! Be a part of this legacy by attending the time capsule ceremony and sharing your love for the 318 area.

Get Creative with the #318Day Coloring Sheet

You can pick up a coloring sheet at the Visitors Center (601 Constitution Drive in West Monroe) or easily download it from our website. Bring your completed coloring sheet to the Visitors Center from March 18-20 to receive a small prize. It’s a colorful way to celebrate the community spirit of Ouachita Parish!

Be the “1” in 318

Strike a pose and show your 318 pride! Large wooden “3” and “8” numbers will be on display at Palace Park in Monroe and Alley Park in West Monroe. Here’s your chance to literally be the “1” in “318.” Gather your friends, family, or just yourself for a fun photo op that celebrates our community. Don’t forget to share your snapshots on social media! Share Your Love for 318 on Social Media Let’s light up social media with all the reasons we love the 318 area! Whether it’s your

favorite local spot, a treasured memory, or just a shoutout to the community, we want to see it! Be sure to tag us—@discovermonroewestmonroe on Instagram and Discover Monroe-West Monroe on Facebook and use the hashtags #318Day and #DiscoverMWM—so we can share your posts and keep the celebration going online.

Celebrate with Us

318 Day is all about community pride and celebrating the unique charm of Ouachita Parish. From the time capsule to colorful creations and fun photo ops, there’s something for everyone. So mark your calendars for March 18 and join us in showing the world why we love the 318!

Don’t forget to tag us in your posts, and most importantly, have fun celebrating 318 Day! For more information, visit monroewestmonroe.org.

Pinnacle Family Health

The Peak of Dental Care

PINNACLE FAMILY HEALTH, LOCATED near vibrant downtown West Monroe, is dedicated to providing accessible, affordable, and comprehensive healthcare services to the community. Among its diverse offerings, dental services stand out as a vital component of Pinnacle’s commitment to family health. Understanding that oral health is integral to overall well-being, we offer a range of dental services aimed at promoting healthy smiles for patients of all ages. Thanks to a combination of funding sources, including the Living Well Foundation, we have a cutting-edge dental facility equipped with the latest technology.

The dental team at Pinnacle – consisting of our dentist, Dr. Tahisa Colbert, hygienist Shelia Hampton, and dental assistants Sadie Williams and Jamie White – comprises experienced professionals who prioritize patient comfort and satisfaction. From the moment patients enter our clinic, they are met with a warm and welcoming environment designed to alleviate the anxiety often associated with dental visits. The staff takes

the time to listen to patients’ concerns, ensuring that each individual feels understood and cared for throughout their dental experience.

Routine dental check-ups and cleanings form the foundation of Pinnacle’s dental services. Regular visits are critical for maintaining optimal oral health, as they allow for the early detection of potential issues such as cavities, gum disease, and more. The dental team employs state-of-the-art technology and techniques to provide thorough examinations and high-quality cleanings, ensuring that each patient leaves with a healthier mouth and a brighter smile.

In addition to preventive care, we offer restorative dental services to address issues that may arise. For patients dealing with cavities or tooth damage, the clinic provides fillings, crowns, and bridges tailored to restore both function and aesthetics. Focusing on using the latest materials and techniques, healthcare professionals at Pinnacle ensure that patients receive durable and natural-looking solutions to their dental concerns.

We’re also dedicated to promoting oral

health education within the community. Our philosophy is that informed patients are empowered patients, which is why they take the time to educate each person on proper dental hygiene practices. Guidance on brushing and flossing techniques, dietary choices that support oral health, and the importance of regular dental visits are all part of the proactive approach the clinic advocates.

For families with young children, Pinnacle is an ideal choice. Our clinic is equipped to provide pediatric dental care, ensuring that even the littlest patients receive the attention and treatment needed to establish good oral hygiene habits early on. Creating a positive experience for children sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy dental practices.

As a community health center, we offer a discount program for people whose income falls below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Additionally, we gladly accept most private insurance plans in addition to Medicare and Medicaid.

In conclusion, Pinnacle Family Health excels in delivering comprehensive dental services that cater to the needs of patients of all ages. With a friendly team, a commitment to patient education, and a range of services that promote oral health, Pinnacle stands out as the go-to dental provider in West Monroe, Louisiana. Whether for routine care or more specialized treatments, families can trust Pinnacle Family Health to keep their smiles healthy and bright for years to come.

The Vine’s Abide in the Word Event

The Vine of Northeast Louisiana hosted Abide in the Word, a two-day in-person event brimming with inspiration, fellowship, and spiritual growth. Held on January 24th and 25th at North Monroe Baptist Church, the conference brought together attendees for worship, engaging speakers, and meaningful discussions.

The event featured guest speakers Hallie Dye and Lisa Robertson, whose powerful messages inspired reflection and connection among participants. With its focus on faith and community, Abide in the Word was a memorable experience for all who attended.

On the BayouScene

1 Jessica Stewart, Phyllis Pepper and Sherri Johnson

2 Erica Thompson, Tere Sia and Amy Sherman

3 Jessica Carr and Kensley Carr

4 Bethany Wilson and Tere Sia

5 Lindsay Springfield and Aliscia Lemoine

6 Rebecca Morales and Cindy Patton

7 Sarah Ranolls and Cynthia Lawson

ULM Students Led A Community Service Initiative

Educators Rising Collegiate Chapter and ULM School of Education Collect Donations

THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA

Monroe (ULM) Educators Rising Collegiate Chapter and the ULM School of Education successfully led a community-driven service initiative, collecting over 1,000 donated items valued at $4,000 and raising $340 in monetary contributions to support children and families in need across Northeast Louisiana.

This impactful effort was made possible by 40 dedicated volunteers who served both on campus and at The Center for Children and Families, demonstrating ULM’s commitment to service learning and community engagement.

In addition to the donation drive, two servicelearning workshops were held to educate ULM students, faculty, and staff on the demographics and challenges faced by children and families in need throughout the region. These workshops provided valuable insights and fostered a deeper understanding of service-based education.

As part of the initiative, the ULM ServiceLearning Competition recognized outstanding

contributions from the university and local partners:

• Monetary Donations Winner: ULM Honors Program

• Gift Drive Winner: Sterlington High School PreEducator Program

“The generosity and dedication displayed by our students, faculty, and community partners highlight the power of education and service working hand in hand,” said ULM Associate Professor of Education Dr. Amy Weems, who is the Adviser of the ULM Educators Rising Chapter. “This initiative not only provided tangible support to families but also reinforced the importance of civic engagement in shaping future educators,” added Weems.

Dr. Joshua Stockley, Director of the ULM Honors Program, emphasized the importance of service in student development, stating, “Community engagement is a core value of the ULM Honors Program, and I am incredibly

proud of our students for stepping up to make a difference. Their generosity reflects their commitment to leadership and service, and I hope this initiative inspires continued efforts to support families in need.”

For more information about ULM Educators Rising and future service initiatives, please contact Dr. Amy L. Weems at weems@ulm.edu.

For more information about the collaboration between the ULM Educators Rising program and The Center for Children and Families, visit https://www.ulm.edu/news/2024/warhawks_ for_hope_christmas_project_110524.html

For more information about The Center for Children and Families, visit www.standforhope. org.

BAYOU KIDZ

Weaning the Screen

article by Cindy G. Foust

Well, here we all are “marching” through the first quarter of 2025 and we’ve yet to see snow or ice. Being on the cusp of March as we are, means we likely won’t either. So, like it or not, spring has sprung and we are welcoming it with open arms. I hope this month of March madness finds everyone and their families doing well. The Twin Cities are coming to life as the spring needle begins to move, with parades, ballgames and Clydesdale Horses. I know I threw that in, but did y’all see those horses? I just want to own a couple in my backyard with my donkey. I think they’d be friends and I’d likely have to get another job or four just to feed them, but they are magnificent.

Speaking of magnificent, I was in the grocery store the other day, in the produce section, and this young mom strolled past me with her child sitting in the back of the shopping cart. The child was watching her mom’s phone, or someone’s phone, which might have been theirs at the age of about 7, and guess what they were watching? Magnificent. When I was telling this story to my daughter, she corrected me that it was “Maleficent.” Tomato…too-MOT-O. Okay, where was I before I had the dialect lesson? Anyway, this little child starts screaming that the movie had stopped, like screaming at the top of his little lungs. The mom ignored him while she picked out her peppers but I didn’t. No, I don’t know if I told y’all readers, but I have a little grand love now (insert eye roll, as I have this on repeat), and I wouldn’t be able to ignore my little girl. Maybe I did when my kids were little, you know, learn to tune them out, but this child simply needed the movie restarted. Right? Like if I wasn’t scared the mom would call Nancy Grace, I would have reached over and started the movie again. Anywho, the mom finally, calmly, looked at the little movie watcher and said, “The louder your voice gets, the less screen time you will have when we get home.” Can you say bottle rocket? Roman candle? This little Siskel and Ebert kid arched his back and started screaming his screen time right down to one minute. You know, if that’s the rule and all. Listen readers, at this point I kind of blacked out. I didn’t know if I should run, if I should hide behind the Yukon golds or if I should call the manager. The mom just kept picking out her peppers and pushed her buggy right into the sausage section with her child screaming like someone told him he had to eat broccoli for breakfast.

Screen time…let’s discuss shall we? I started doing a little reading on the subject when I got home that afternoon. According to the AACAP (I thought this sounded official), the average 8-12-year-old spends 4-6 hours in front of a screen and the average teenager spends 9 hours. Wait. Wouldn’t 9 hours be like all day? And what 8-year-old needs to be on their screen 6 hours? What happened to playing outside? Playing with Barbies? Coloring? I know times are different than when I grew up in Butcher’s Hollow (just kidding, but I did grow up at the end of Ollie Caples), me and my sisters had wild vivid imaginations and we put those to good use in the 3-Sisters Talent Shows that we routinely performed for our family. Can you imagine for a minute, my Big Daddy having to sit and watch three little girls sing “Kiss on My List?” Or “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain?” Or having a dance off to “Shake Shake Shake Your Booty?” SOS How did he ever keep a straight face? We even wrote our own music and would belt out “Polly Wally Wog” during this talent extravaganza. Have I ever described my dancing talent, by the way? Think gazelle… that’s been hit by a car…hence the name “Cind-yonce.” Now, you don’t have to state the obvious readers, because my music choices date me, but we didn’t have electronics. Heck, we didn’t get a Curtis Mathus VCR until 1983, so there was no lure of the electronics for these girls. And today? Well, today is a donkey of a different color. And how do we address it…or do we?

I did some further reading on the subject, being a Lulu now for a whopping 10 months, but having been a parent not too terribly long ago, because I wanted to see what the options were for my loyal readers. I mean, do you guys need suggestions for weaning the screen? I think the Pick-A-Pepper lady surely needed my advice to go home and create a “Cozy Corner.” What’s that you say? It’s your child’s own little corner, with pillows and cushions and a warm blanket and maybe a little bookshelf with books and puzzles and games and a few toys. I even think a little lamp to really cozy it up might be nice. Perhaps it’s located somewhere near the family room, so they feel like they are part of the action Jackson. Now, that’s for independent play, but the next few suggestions will require adult interaction, so buckle in. You guys know I love my kitchen and I plan to spend a lot of time with my little baby love teaching her the culinary ropes. Why not host cooking classes every week for your children, and allow them to be part of dinner prep? What about game night? We love the board games at our house, even with my grown children, and card games are at the top of the list. In full transparency, everyone at my house, except my daughter-in-law, loves to win. Gracie just wants everyone to get along and not worry about the score. But the rest of us? We want to know who got all the places…1st, 2nd, 3rd and even 4th. It matters. With a little planning, how about craft night? Painting, coloring, drawing…all the seasonal crafts with of course, a little Hall and Oates playing in the background. What else readers? What are some screen time busters you do at your house?

I love writing about this kind of thing, that encourages families to spend time together. That’s right, we will never regret carving out that time with our kids, our grandkids which will ultimately limit the amount of screen time they have. Let’s do it friends, let’s be intentional about this get those kids organizing their own talent show. If you need me to come do a dance class, just let me know! Maybe I can send your kids a Tik Tok on how to shake, shake shake their booties! Just a reminder that we are all in this together and finding things we can encourage each other with is what community is all about. #WeantheScreen #magnificent.

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 and insight with a smidgen of literacy. Give her a like or follow on Facebook and Instagram.

Future Ed Grads Connect With Louisiana Schools

Louisiana Tech University’s College of Education and Human Sciences Hosted Event

THE CLINICAL RESIDENCY AND Recruitment Center (CRRC) in Louisiana Tech University’s College of Education and Human Sciences (CEHS) hosted a Mid-Year Recruitment event to allow Louisiana school districts the opportunity to recruit future teachers and student teachers.

The event offered junior education majors preparing for their 2025–26 residencies an opportunity to network with 14 school district partners across Louisiana. Senior clinical residents also participated in a traditional teacher recruitment fair, connecting with potential employers from the Louisiana school districts.

Caroline Broussard, Calhoun Middle School resident, credits her current residency position to the Mid-Year Recruitment.

“I have learned so much throughout this past year in my residency,” Broussard said. “I now know the emotional, physical, and mental toll it takes to be a teacher, and I feel prepared moving forward in my teaching journey.”

Kingston Elementary School resident Savanna Brickner felt that the possibilities were endless when talking to the different districts.

“This program has allowed me to get my foot in the door and have the experience I need,” Brickner said. “My future has progressed in a different way that’s putting me ahead in my career.”

This year’s event welcomed school district partners from Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Claiborne, DeSoto, Jackson, Lincoln, Monroe City, Ouachita, Rapides, Richland, Webster, West Feliciana, and Winn parishes.

“We have been very pleased with the educators that Louisiana Tech University produces,” Dr. Tracey Burrell, recruitment and retention supervisor for Bossier Parish Schools, said. “Our district sees this as a viable pipeline to meet the newest teachers in Louisiana, and we will continue to be a part of this event.”

Alexandria Feaster, principal of Homer High School and a Louisiana Tech graduate, also

commented on the impact of CRRC’s Mid-Year Recruitment.

“These young adults are hungry for an opportunity in education, whether that’s as a coach, sponsor, department head, or content leader,” Feaster added.

The Mid-Year Recruitment event continues to kickstart students’ dreams as educators and facilitate meaningful connections between residents and school districts.

“This event is their reality check,” Dr. Amy Vessel, CRRC director, said. “By networking with surrounding districts, these students are able to have a vision and a plan early enough to secure a job before graduation.”

For more information about the CRRC and its initiatives, visit the Clinical Residency and Recruitment Center website or email crrc@latech. edu.

The BayouLife Attorney Directory is your source for obtaining current information for attorneys licensed to practice in Louisiana. From personal injury attorneys to those specializing in family law, this list is comprised of some of the best in the industry.

Anzelmo Law | Partners Title

200 Breard Street, Monroe 318-855-3735

Bayou DeSiard Title Company

417 North 3rd Street, Monroe 318-325-8800

Bruscato LAW FIRM

603 Jackson Street, Monroe | 308 West Alabama Ave., Ruston

318.501.8173 | 318.497.4646

Christiansen Law Firm

2483 Tower Drive, Suite 2, Monroe

318.807.0924

Creed & Creed

1805 Tower Drive, Monroe 318.387.5800

Matherne & Davis, APLC

3006 Armand Street, P.O. Box 6135, Monroe 318.807.9030

Neal Law Firm

2483 Tower Drive, Suite 1, Monroe 318.460.0355

NELA Title Company

2551 Tower Drive, Monroe 318.388.4304

North Delta Title Company

1100 North 19th Street, Monroe 318.387.1100

Growing up in the heart of Monroe, Louisiana, John Bruscato’s life was shaped by the core values of faith, family, resilience, and service.

In this close-knit community, these values weren’t just preached, but lived out daily. From learning the ropes of his family’s restaurant, Geno’s, to raising a family of his own, every experience has woven into the fabric of who John Bruscato is today.

However, the path to his career as a lawyer wasn’t a straight one. John experienced a pivotal moment during his college years at ULM in 2006, where he found himself in a legal predicament. Rather than letting it derail him, it ignited a passion within him. John gives credit to the guidance of his cousin, Tony, an experienced personal injury attorney. Tony’s mentorship not only introduced John to the legal profession, but also instilled in him the importance of fighting for others. John went on to earn his Juris Doctorate at Mississippi College and graduated in 2012. Once he graduated, John knew exactly what he wanted to do. He passed the bar, and founded his own practice, Bruscato Law Firm.

John Bruscato’s academic journey at the University of Louisiana Monroe, where he focused on marketing and economics, may seem unrelated to law at first glance. However, those studies equipped him with a unique perspective and skill set essential for personal injury law. Understanding the broader economic and communication principles has become his edge in navigating the complexities of each client’s case.

Choosing personal injury law wasn’t about following a trend for John Bruscato; it was deeply personal. Having experienced uncertainty and pain firsthand, he approaches each case with empathy and understanding. John Bruscato’s mission is rooted in the

belief that everyone deserves justice and validation for their story.

Faith, family, and service are the pillars of Bruscato Law Firm today. Every case taken on by John is a personal commitment to stand by his clients during their toughest times. Integrity, diligence, and excellence guide his approach, ensuring that each client feels genuinely cared for and represented.

For John Bruscato, success in law isn’t just about legal victories; it’s about making a tangible difference in people’s lives. John says, “It’s about setting an example for my children, showing them the importance of touching lives and making the world a little fairer.”

To make an even greater impact in Northeast Louisiana, Bruscato Law Firm opened an office in Ruston in 2024 to serve all of Lincoln Parish. No matter the location, John remains committed to his clients, community, and the values that have shaped his journey.

Bruscato Law Firm

603 Jackson St, Monroe bruscatolaw.com | 318-501-8173

308 West Alabama Ave, Ruston 318-497-4646

PERSONAL INJURY AND WORKERS COMPENSATION ATTORNEY

While the firm practices across North Louisiana, John resides in Monroe, where he and his wife, Cassie, raise their three children, Colby, Dash, and Vanessa Jean. John says, “They’re the heartbeat of my world. They push me every day to reach for more, not just for us, but for every family I am privileged to represent.”

Matherne & Davis, Attorneys at Law

3006 Armand Street, P.O. Box 6135, Monroe

318.807.9030

Wills, Powers of Attorney, Trusts, Successions

Matherne and Davis, Attorneys at Law, are based in Monroe and represent clients throughout Northeast Louisiana. Their firm provides a broad range of legal services to clients, specializing in estate planning. They bring extensive experience and professionalism in every case and customize their support with every client based upon specific needs, concerns and goals.

Almost all individuals, regardless of age, marital status or net worth need to have an ongoing relationship and open conversation with a competent estate planning attorney. By creating a plan for the management of your assets in the event of disability and/or a plan for the disposition of your assets at death, the time and expense of the probate process and any potential estate tax liability, can be greatly reduced and the burden on loved ones can be minimized. They assist clients with comprehensive wealth management and estate planning strategies to best meet their needs and to help families with the transition of assets during lifetime and at death in the most efficient manner possible. Their services include the drafting and administration of wills,

powers of attorney, trusts, and successions. In addition, they are experienced and available to counsel and advise clients in the areas of donations, marriage contracts, tutorships, interdictions, Medicaid planning, business formation, taxation, and business contracts.

The faces behind Matherne and Davis may be familiar to you as they were both born and raised in North Louisiana and are very involved in the community. Valerie Van Matherne has been practicing law in Monroe for over 25 years. After graduating from Ouachita Parish High School, and ULM with a Bachelor of Business in Accounting, she attended Mississippi College School of Law. While attending law school, she passed the CPA exam and maintains her CPA status as “inactive.” She began her practice as a sole practitioner specializing in corporate law, successions, wills, trusts and tax planning. She also spent several years working in the banking industry as a trust officer.

In 2005, Valerie received her Certified Financial Planner™ Certification and has been a Board-Certified Estate Planning and Administration Specialist with the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization since 2007. In 2013, Valerie partnered with

Lauren Pickett Davis is a native of Delhi and high school graduate of Riverfield Academy. She graduated from ULM with a Bachelor of Arts in Government/History in 2001 and received her Juris Doctorate in Civil Law from Loyola University School of Law in New Orleans in 2007. After graduation, Lauren clerked for the Fourth Judicial District Court. Upon completion of her clerkship, Lauren practiced in Shreveport until 2012 when she and her family returned to Monroe. Lauren currently serves on the Board of Directors for Commercial Capital Bank.

Valerie and Lauren’s work history and knowledge are invaluable in assisting their clients in the estate planning field as they work closely with many of their client’s tax advisors and financial planners to ensure that their clients benefit from a comprehensive approach. Contact Matherne and Davis today to plan for your future. Whether you are planning a new business, in need of a pre or post marriage contract or estate planning, Matherne and Davis can help you today, so you don’t have to worry about tomorrow.

Lauren Davis to form Matherne & Davis, APLC.

LOCAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

Since 1995, Christian and Catherine Creed have provided outstanding legal representation to their clients in northeast Louisiana. As members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, which recognizes prestigious trial lawyers in the United States, Creed & Creed focuses on personal injury litigation, including automobile accidents, 18-wheeler accidents, offshore accidents, wrongful death, and social security disability claims. Also, as members of the American Academy of Trial Attorneys, representing the top one percent of trial attorneys, the firm believes those who have suffered personal injuries due to negligence, through no fault of their own, should be fairly and adequately compensated. They believe in dedicated and personal service. Christian and Catherine meet personally with their clients to better understand the needs of their clients and the details of their case. They know how insurance companies operate, and they fight to protect the rights of their clients. In fact, the firm was recently recognized as one of the nation’s top personal injury law firms by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel and is the proud recipient of The American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys’ Client Satisfaction Award. Christian Creed is an experienced trial attorney and persuasive negotiator. A graduate of LSU and Loyola University College of Law, Christian is also a licensed investigator, making him uniquely qualified to fight on their clients’ behalf. Moreover, Christian previously worked as a claims adjuster for several national insurance companies, so he knows how insurance adjusters operate and the strategies they employ. He has been representing clients throughout northeast Louisiana for over 25 years, and his experience ensures their clients the favorable outcome

they deserve.

Catherine Creed is a lifelong resident of our community with over 25 years of legal experience. A graduate of LSU and Loyola University College of Law, she is a former real estate attorney, who now devotes her entire practice to personal injury law. Catherine is a member of the Louisiana Association of Justice and Louisiana Land and Title Association. She is also a sustaining member of the Monroe Junior League and is actively involved with the United Way of Northeast Louisiana.

Christian and Catherine take pride in their Louisiana roots and are actively involved in their community. The Creeds are ardent supporters of our area’s schools, universities and non-profits. Creed & Creed was voted as Best Law Firm in northeast Louisiana in Gannett’s Best of the Best, and is an eleven-time winner of The Best of the Delta, Best Attorney category. Creed & Creed is a past recipient of the Good Neighbor Award presented by the Better Business Bureau and the Bart Award, which recognizes contributions by local businesses to the arts in northeast Louisiana by the Downtown Arts Alliance. Also, Christian was previously recognized as the James M. Shipp Jr. Memorial Young Business Leader of the Year by the Monroe Chamber of Commerce and received the first Community Spirit Award presented by NELA United Way. The Creeds take pride in being our area’s local injury attorneys.

Creed & Creed 1805 Tower Drive, Monroe creedlaw.com | 318-387-5800

LOCAL PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

Anzelmo Law is a full-service law firm providing responsive, effective and efficient legal services to its clients throughout Louisiana. Our attorneys, Don Anzelmo, Charles Anzelmo, and Alexis “Lexi” Coco, and staff are well equipped to handle a variety of your legal needs such as Workers Compensation & Insurance Defense Litigation, Collections, Evictions, Transactional Law (Successions, Corporate Law, Contracts/ Leases, etc.), and General Litigation. Don and Charles also regularly serve as attorney chairmen on medical review panels in medical malpractice claims. Anzelmo Law is located at 200 Breard Street in Downtown Monroe, Louisiana. You can find more information about Anzelmo Law at www.anzelmolaw.com or give us a call at 318-855-3735 should you have any questions.

Thank you for the continued opportunity to serve your legal needs.

Partners Title offers a full range of title insurance and closing & escrow services to clients and fellow professionals who serve the real estate industry in Louisiana. Our title attorney, Charles Anzelmo, and professional staff at Partners Title have the experience and knowledge to handle a comprehensive range of title services in areas including commercial, residential, and recreational property transactions. Partners Title is committed to providing responsive and personalized attention throughout the buying and selling process, so all parties involved have an efficient, understandable, and enjoyable transaction. Partners Title is located at 200 Breard Street in Downtown Monroe, Louisiana and has a closing office located at 210 W. Florida Street in Ruston, Louisiana. Feel free to give us a call at 318-855-3735 or check us out online at www.partnerstitlela.com or on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ partnerstitlelouisiana

We look forward to closing with you soon!

FAnzelmo Law Partners Title

200 Breard Street, Monroe anzelmolaw.com | partnerstitlela.com 318-855-3735

ounded over 25 years ago, Bayou Desiard Title Company has been a cornerstone of the community, providing reliable title services since its inception. Gene Hastings and the other attorneys and staff members of Bayou DeSiard Title recognize that any company that has been successful for over two decades owes its existence to the individuals and community that it serves.

Bayou DeSiard Title Company

Bayou DeSiard Title specializes in providing closing services in connection with all types of real estate transactions. It handles transactions involving residential and commercial properties including sales, mortgages, refinances, donations, servitudes and lease/purchases. The company provides escrow services and writes title insurance for national title insurers. Bayou DeSiard Title is approved to handle matters on behalf of almost every banker, mortgage broker and realty office in Northeast Louisiana.

The company was formed in 1997 by local attorney Gene Hastings and he has since been joined by two other attorneys, Cooper Hastings and Larry Mullens. The attorneys are supported by a staff which prides itself on being experienced, professional and friendly. The individuals that make up our team are all determined to provide professional title services while maintaining a personal relationship with our clients. Everyone at Bayou DeSiard Title is a specialist when it comes to real estate transactions and this is why they can live up to the company slogan of “closing loans at the lowest possible cost to you.”

Because of its history of professionalism and community involvement Bayou DeSiard Title has been recognized with various awards over the years since its formation including the Chamber of Commerce’s Thomas H Scott Award of Excellence and the Rivertown Award of Excellence.

Jan “J.P.” Christiansen grew up in New Jersey and New Orleans, graduating from O. Perry Walker High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Louisiana Tech University in 1987 and a Juris Doctorate from Tulane University School of Law in 1990. While at Tulane, J.P. was a member of the J. Braxton Craven, Jr. Memorial Moot Court Competition and a finalist in the Tulane Moot Court Junior Appellate Competition.

After graduating from law school, J.P. moved to Monroe and joined Hudson, Potts & Bernstein, where he practiced for over 30 years, focusing on general litigation. Over time, his practice expanded to include family law, eventually leading him to establish his own firm, specializing in litigation, family law, and personal injury.

J.P. is a member of the American Inns of Court, the NELA Bar Foundation, the Louisiana State Bar Association, and the Louisiana Association of Defense Counsel, where he previously served as a director. He has also served as the District Representative for the Young Lawyers

Section of the Louisiana State Bar Association and as a member of its House of Delegates. Additionally, he completed training at the Hastings School of Law Trial Academy in San Francisco and the International Association of Defense Counsel Trial Academy in Boulder, Colorado.

Licensed to practice in both state and federal courts in Louisiana, J.P.’s work has spanned nearly every parish and appellate court in the state. He has tried over 100 cases to judgment in state and federal courts and has more than 40 reported appellate decisions. Recognized for his legal expertise, J.P. holds an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the organization’s highest distinction. He has also spoken at conferences on insurance law and workers’ compensation.

Beyond his legal career, J.P. is an active member of New Iona Presbyterian Church in West Monroe. He is married to Karla Kaye Christiansen and is the proud father of three children: Emily, Anna, and Jakob.

Law Firm 2483 Tower Drive Suite 1, Monroe neallawfirm.net | 318.460.0355

ATTORNEYS AT LAW

Christiansen Law Firm

2483 Tower Drive Suite 2, Monroe christiansenlawfirm.net

318.807.0924

Mark Neal, a Monroe native, is deeply rooted in his community. He graduated from St. Frederick High School before earning his undergraduate degree from ULM and his law degree from LSU. With 29 years of experience, he has built a distinguished career as a civil trial attorney, zealously advocating for justice and helping individuals and businesses enforce their rights. Mark primarily represents clients involved in complex disputes, handling a wide range of civil litigation, business litigation, personal injury cases, and dispute resolution. His reputation is built on integrity, dedication, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for those he represents.

While proud of his extensive body of work, Mark believes that his defining moment still lies ahead. From the day he chose to pursue a legal career, he set out not just to practice law, but to make a meaningful impact. To him, the true measure of success is not just in winning cases but in making a real difference in the lives of everyday people. While

lawyers are often hired to deliver results, Mark holds firm to the belief that those who consistently do what’s right will, at times, find themselves in a position to create positive change that extends far beyond a single case.

Beyond his legal career, Mark finds his greatest joy in his family. He has been married to Rhonda Wray, a talented graphic artist, since 1989— their love story beginning in freshman English at NLU. Together, they have built a life centered on family and faith. Their two sons, Noah and Nathan, are their pride and joy. Noah (21) is currently a junior at ULM, following in his father’s academic footsteps, while Nathan (17) is a junior at St. Frederick High School, carrying on the family’s legacy at Mark’s alma mater. Through his career and personal life, Mark remains deeply committed to the values of justice, integrity, and service. As he continues to navigate the ever-evolving legal landscape, he looks forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead—always striving to make a meaningful difference in the community he calls home.

NELA Title Company

2551 Tower Drive, Monroe nelatitle.com | 318.388.4304

In March of 1994, North Delta Title opened its doors to provide the residents of Northeast Louisiana a single source for all of their real estate transaction needs. Specializing and focusing on residential and commercial real estate closings, North Delta Title has successfully closed over 40,000 real estate transactions. And even though based in Ouachita Parish, North Delta Title handles closings throughout the state of Louisiana. Partner, Amy E. Price, was born in Monroe and currently resides in Monroe with her husband, Brian Boatright, and her two children, Claire and Will. She is a 1997 graduate of St. Frederick High School. Amy earned her bachelors degree in Political Science from LSU in 2001 and later graduated Cum Laude in 2009 from Southern University Law Center, where she was a member of the Law Review. While attending law school, Amy was employed with several law firms as well as clerking with the Baton Rouge City Court. After graduation, Amy was employed as the law clerk for the Honorable Annette LaSalle with Baton Rouge Family Court, where she clerked until returning home to Monroe in 2011. She joined North Delta Title in

NELA Title Company, based in Monroe, Louisiana, is a trusted name in real estate transactions, offering expert title and estate planning services. Founded on integrity, experience, and community commitment, the company is led by attorneys Rob Garner and Ethan Hunt, who bring decades of legal expertise to the table. Their passion for helping homebuyers—especially firsttime buyers—ensures a seamless closing process. Beyond their professional work, both Garner and Hunt are actively involved in nonprofit efforts, reinforcing NELA Title’s dedication to serving Northeast Louisiana. Whether buying, selling, or refinancing, NELA Title Company is your local partner in securing property with confidence.

Ethan Hunt graduated from Neville High school in 1997, before attending Louisiana Tech University. Graduating from Tech in 2001 with a degree in Biology, Ethan went on to work in the environmental field, focusing on Phase I site assessments, asbestos inspections, wetland delineation and radio frequency assessments. In 2003, Ethan enrolled in law school at LSU and graduated in 2006 with his juris doctorate.

February of 2011 and was named Partner in 2014. Amy specializes in residential and commercial real estate transactions as well as business and succession law.

Amy is a member of the American Bar Association, the Louisiana State Bar Association, the Fourth Judicial District Bar Association, and is an affiliate member of the Northeast Louisiana Association of Realtors. She currently serves on the Louisiana Law Institute Property Committee and as a Director on the Board of the Louisiana Land Title Association. She is a past chairman of the United Way of Northeast Louisiana, where she still serves on the Finance Committee. She is a past recipient of the James M. Shipp, Jr. Memorial Young Business Leader of the Year award and was recently appointed by the Ouachita Parish Police Jury to the Industrial Development Board for Ouachita Parish, where she serves as the Secretary/ Treasurer. She also serves on the Board of Directors of GrowNELA, where she is actively involved with bringing new business to Northeast Louisiana. She is an active member of Jesus the Good Shepherd Church where she serves on the Flower Guild and as an Eucharistic Minister.

Since 2006, Ethan has practiced in a variety of areas but has consistently maintained a focus on real estate transactions, business administrations, estate planning, and succession.

Rob Garner is originally from Monroe and a proud Neville High School graduate. He went on to obtain his undergraduate degree from the University of Louisiana at Monroe in 2001 and his Juris Doctorate from LSU Law School in 2004. Since that time, Rob has practiced law in Northeast Louisiana and specializes in real estate, business organizations and transactions and estate planning.

Whether you’re buying your first home, expanding your business, or securing your family’s future, NELA Title Company is committed to guiding you every step of the way. With a trusted team of experts and a deep understanding of Louisiana law, they provide seamless, stress-free solutions for all your real estate and estate planning needs. At NELA Title, your success is their priority—because when it comes to protecting what matters most, experience and dedication make all the difference.

NORTH DELTA TITLE COMPANY

1100 North 19th Street, Monroe NorthDeltaTitle.com | 318-387-1100

REVIVAL DESIGN & CONSIGN

This fantasy outfit is a perfect match for our theme. A striped leotard pairs with a hoop skirt, black-and-white striped skirt, a top hat, and a polka dot parasol to complete the look.

in the air tonight

Fashion Fusion 2025 will mark 14 years of celebrating a community coming together for cancer patients right here in our area. All proceeds benefit the Cancer Foundation League of Northeast Louisiana which provides medical assistance and supplies to local patients and families suffering from this dreadful disease. Join us on March 8, 2025 at the Monroe Civic Center for this fashionable event.

Hair and Makeup: Meka Bennett Reliford

Models: Jada George and Chevy Navarro

Photography by Kelly Moore Clark

Thanks to Biedenharn Museum & Gardens

HERRINGSTONES

Jada looks effortlessly chic in this blush polka dot set, featuring a slightly cropped top with a shoulder ribbon and a flowing midi flare skirt. Complete the look with a clear beaded statement necklace, teardrop earrings and raffia heels and clutch for a fresh and elegant spring ensemble.

HEMLINE MONROE

This dress strikes the perfect balance between sophisticated and fun. With tie shoulder straps, a corset bodice, and a flattering peplum waist, it’s completed with a ruffled hem for a feminine finish. Accessorize with raffia shoes and white beaded loop earrings.

LOLA JANE BOUTIQUE

Bold florals are a must-have for the season ahead. This feminine dress showcases bubble sleeves and a charming scalloped hem. Accessorize with embellished gold bangle bracelets and dainty bow earrings.

DUSTY & COMPANY

Ideal for the transition from winter to spring, this multicolor

beautifully

knit sweater pairs

with Judy Blue white jeans. Finish the look with pink sneakers and a long beaded tassel necklace.

MAX PORTER PROVISIONS

Vintage meets performance meets western. This charcoal shirt from Poncho Outdoors features breathable, lightweight, and quick-drying fabric. Pair it with a straight leg, dark wash jean and Outsiders snapback hat.

PALETTE HOUSE

This vibrant dress is a playful and stylish piece perfect for warmer weather. The strapless design and midi length create a flattering silhouette, while the bold geometric print in shades of black, white, orange, green, and blue adds a touch of whimsy. Pair it with orange Sam Edelman heels, a Labradorite heart necklace layered with gold beaded necklaces and tassel earrings.

RON ALEXANDER CLOTHIERS

Chevy looks sharp in a blue button-up shirt from Bugatchi, straight-leg denim jeans, and a MaxDavoli grey wool blazer with coordinating pocket square.

MATERIAL THINGS

Versatile, comfortable and chic all in one, this striped dress has everything you could want in a shirt dress. Pair it with a beautiful floral scarf, pink glasses, and luxe striped crew socks.

Calendar of Events

For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com

February 7 - March 6

A Retrospective: The Work of Dorothy Williams

The Arts Council is honored to showcase the work of local artist Dorothy Williams!

Venue: Northeast Louisiana Arts Council Gallery, 118 Cotton Street West Monroe, LA 71291

February 20 - May 3

62nd Annual Juried Competition

Swing by the Masur Museum of Art for their annual Juried Competition.

Venue: Masur Museum of Art, 1400 South Grand Street Monroe, LA 71202

Phone: (318) 329-2237

February 28 - March 2

ULM Softball Best on the Bayou Tournament

Join the Warhawks softball team as they compete in the Best on the Bayou Tournament.

Hours: Game Times Vary

Cost: Ticket Prices Vary

Venue: ULM Softball Field, 308 Warhawk Way Monroe, LA 71209

Phone: (318) 342-1000

March 1-2

Ouachita Regional Challenge

Compete with your friends at the OPSO Training Facility & Public Shooting Range.

Hours: 8am - 2pm

Venue: Ouachita Parish Shooting Range, 357 Sheriff Fewell Road West Monroe, LA 71292

Phone: (770) 432-1202

March 1, 2, 7, 8

Monroe Symphony League Book Sale

The Monroe Symphony League starts their sale on March 1st.

Hours: Friday and Saturday 9am - 5pm, Sunday 1pm - 5pm

Cost: $2 admission

Venue: Monroe Symphony League Book Store, 320 N 4th Street Monroe, LA 71201

Phone: (318) 537-5171

March 1, 8, 15, 29

Vineyard & Winery Tour at Landry Vineyards

Learn all about the wine-making process at Landry Vineyards!

Hours: 2pm - 3:30pm

Cost: $20

Venue: Landry Vineyards, 5699 New Natchitoches Road West Monroe, LA

71292

Phone: (318) 557-9050

March 1

Strauss Dinner Theatre: Nursery Rhymes

Find out what secrets Mother Goose’s stories are hiding at this dinner theatre!

Hours: 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Cost: Ticket Prices Vary

Venue: Strauss Theatre Center, 1300 ½ Lamy Lane Monroe, LA 71201

Phone: (318) 323-6681

March 1

EDW Live in West Monroe

Don’t miss the “ultimate battle of the little guys”!

Hours: 7pm - 9pm

Cost: $25 general, $40 ringside

Venue: West Monroe Convention Center, 901 Ridge Avenue West Monroe, LA 71291

Phone: (682) 400-2136

February 28-March 2

RCT Presents: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

Enter a world of magic, talking animals, mythology, and adventure in this play based on the C.S. Lewis Novel.

Hours: Thursday-Saturday 7pm, Sunday

2pm

Cost: Adult $20, Student $10

Venue: Dixie Center for the Arts, 212 N. Vienna St. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: (318) 255-1450

February 28-March 2, 4, 5, 18, 21-23

GSU Baseball

Get ready to cheer on the GSU Tigers as they compete in these exciting baseball series!

Hours: Varying times

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Venue: Wilbert Ellis Field at R.W.E. Jones Park, Grambling, LA 71245

Phone: (318) 274-3811

February 28-March 2, 4-5, 7-9, 18, 25, 28-30

LA Tech Baseball

Cheer on the Bulldogs as they compete in these baseball series at The Love Shack!

Hours: Varying times

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Venue: J.C. Love Field, 1650 W Alabama Ave. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: (318) 257-3631

March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Ruston Farmers Market

Enjoy local produce and handmade products at this farmers market downtown.

Hours: 9am-1pm

Venue: 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: (318) 957-1305

March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Creative Meetups

Gather with fellow artists to share ideas, techniques, and stories as you create art.

Hours: 6pm-9pm

Cost: Free

Venue: Creatives at Work, 112 W Alabama Ave. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: (318) 202-3202

March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Flying Heart Live

Head to Flying Heart every Sunday for some food and live music.

Hours: 6pm - 9pm

Cost: Free

Venue: Flying Heart Brewing & Pub, 204 Commerce Street West Monroe, LA 71291

Phone: (318) 367-0888

March 4, 14, 15, 16, 28, 29

ULM Softball

Come out and support the Warhawk softball team at their home games!

Hours: Game Times Vary

Cost: Ticket Prices Vary

Venue: ULM Softball Field, 308 Warhawk Way Monroe, LA 71209

Phone: (318) 342-1000

March 4

RFM: Free Class with LSU Ag

Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers

Market Teaching Kitchen and learn skills from LSU Ag.

Hours: 6-8pm

Cost: Free

Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: (318) 957-1305

March 4, 7-9, 12, 21-23, LA Tech Softball

Cheer on the Bulldogs as they compete in these exciting softball games!

Hours: Varying times

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Venue: Dr. Billy Bundrick Field, 920 Tech

Dr. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: (318) 257-3631

March 5, 12, 19, 26

Karaoke Wednesday at Enoch’s

Enjoy some karaoke with friends every Wednesday at Enoch’s!

Hours: 8pm - 11pm

Venue: Enoch’s Irish Pub, 507 Louisville Avenue Monroe, LA 71201

Phone: (318) 388-3662

March 6-9, 13-16

A Streetcar Named Desire

Come see The Strauss Theatre Center perform their production of this timeless classic!

Hours: Thursday - Saturday 7pm, Sundays 2pm

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Venue: Strauss Theatre Center, 1300 ½ Lamy Lane Monroe, LA 71201 Phone: (318) 323-6681

March 6, 8

GSU Men’s Basketball

Get ready to cheer on the GSU Tigers as they compete in these exciting basketball games!

Hours: Varying times

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Venue: Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center, 100 N. Stadium Dr. Grambling, LA Phone: (318) 274-3811

March 6, 8

GSU Women’s Basketball

Get ready to cheer on the Lady Tigers as they compete in these exciting basketball games!

Hours: Varying times

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Venue: Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center, 100 N. Stadium Dr. Grambling, LA Phone: (318) 274-3811

March 6, 8

LA Tech Men’s Basketball Cheer on the Bulldogs as they compete in these exciting basketball games!

Hours: Varying times

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Venue: Thomas Assembly Center, 1650 W Alabama Ave. Ruston, LA 71270 Phone: (318) 257-3631

March 6, 8

LA Tech Men’s Basketball Cheer on the Bulldogs as they compete in these exciting basketball games!

Hours: Varying times

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Venue: Thomas Assembly Center, 1650

W Alabama Ave. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: (318) 257-3631

March 6

RFM: Charcuterie and Wine Tasting

Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen featuring a custom charcuterie board and wine tastings.

Hours: 6-8pm

Cost: Varies - rustonfarmersmarket.org

Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: (318) 957-1305

March 7-8, 11, 19, 21-22, GSU Softball

Get ready to cheer on the Lady Tigers as they compete in these exciting basketball games!

Hours: Varying times

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Venue: Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center, 100 N. Stadium Dr. Grambling, LA

Phone: (318) 274-3811

March 7 - 8

Comedy Night

Join Arena Billiards Bar & Grill for their weekend featuring local comedians!

Hours: 8pm - 10pm

Venue: Arena Billiards Bar & Grill, 1411 Thomas Road West Monroe, LA 71292

Phone: (318) 570-2120

March 7, 8, 9, 11, 21, 22, 23

ULM Baseball

Come out and support ULM Warhawk Baseball at their home games!

Hours: Game times vary

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Venue: Lou St. Amant Field, 518 Warhawk Way Monroe, LA 71209

Phone: (318) 342-3592

March 7

Creative Convos

Hang out with a mix of imaginative people at the monthly Creative Convo meeting.

Hours: 7pm - 10pm

Cost: Free

Venue: The Sugar Gallery, 135 Art Alley Monroe, LA 71201

March 7-9

Big Creek Trade Days

Enjoy this shopping venue with a variety of local vendors, food, and live music

Hours: Friday and Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 10am-4pm

Cost: $5 per car

Venue: 327 California Plant Rd. Dubach, LA 71235

Phone: (318) 680-1304

March 8

Warhawk Harley-Davidson End of Winter Bash

Celebrate the beginning of spring at this

activity-packed day.

Hours: Starts at 11am

Cost: Free

Venue: Warhawk Harley-Davidson, 6200 Frontage Road Monroe, LA 71202

Phone: (318) 343-1650

March 8

8th Annual Poor Man’s Run

This 1-mile fun run and 5K event will support the St. Vincent dePaul Community Pharmacy.

Hours: 8am - 11am

Cost: $25-35

Venue: ULM College of Pharmacy

Phone: (318) 488-0896

March 8

8th Annual Empty Bowls

Join the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana for their 8th annual Empty Bowls event.

Hours: 11am - 1pm

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Venue: Monroe Civic Center, 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway Monroe, LA 71201

Phone: (318) 322-3567

March 8

VAMN! Visual Artist Meetup

Head to the Sugar Gallery for the visual artist monthly meeting.

Hours: 12pm - 2:30pm

Cost: Free

Venue: Downtown Monroe, 131 Art Alley Monroe, LA 71201

March 8

It’s Lit! Literary Artist Meetup

Join the Northeast Louisiana Black Creatives Circle for their monthly literary artist meetup.

Hours: 12pm - 2pm

Cost: Free

Venue: The Sugar Gallery, 135 Art Alley Monroe, LA 71201

March 8

Fashion Fusion 2025

Get ready for this annual show where dance and fashion merge!

Hours: 7pm - 9pm

Cost: Ticket Prices Vary

Venue: Monroe Civic Center, 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway Monroe, LA 71201

Phone: (318) 325-0120

March 11-15

Munchkin Market

Shop or donate kids’ gently used namebrand or boutique clothes.

Cost: Free

Venue: Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 100 N 18th Street Monroe, LA 71201

March 13 - April 12

Northern Exposure Shop Hop

Visit various quilt shops in the area to be eligible for prizes!

Cost: $10 per “passport”

Venue: Various area quilt shops

Phone: (318) 547-7715

March 13

RFM: Smith Family Farms Chef Night

Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen featuring chefs from Smith Family Farms

Hours: 6-8pm

Cost: Varies - rustonfarmersmarket.org

Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: (318) 957-1305

March 13-15

Spring Market

Don’t miss this weekend of food, shopping, and live music!

Hours: 10am - 4pm Thursday and Friday, 10am - 5pm Saturday

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Venue: Monroe Civic Center, 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway Monroe, LA 71201

Phone: (318) 322-3236

March 15

Tour of Layton Castle

Explore Layton Castle and learn its evolution from creole cottage to a castle.

Hours: 10am - 11am

Cost: $18

Venue: Layton Castle, 1133 South Grand Street Monroe, LA 71202

Phone: (435) 691-3271

March 15

St. Paddy’s Day Bike Parade & Festival

Bring the whole family for this day full of St. Patrick’s Day festivities!

Hours: 10:30am - 1pm

Cost: Free

Venue: Kiroli Park, 820 Kiroli Road West Monroe, LA 71291

Phone: (318) 325-1961

March 15

Lagniappe Saturday - Mason Granade Enjoy this free concert at Landry Vineyards!

Hours: 3pm - 6:30pm

Cost: Free

Venue: Landry Vineyards, 5699 New Natchitoches Road West Monroe, LA 71292

Phone: (318) 557-9050

March 15

3rd Annual Blue-Collar Throwdown Don’t miss this night of fun and live music!

Hours: 5:30pm

Cost: $10 cover at door + ticket

Venue: The Hub, 201 Washington Street Monroe, LA 71201

March 19

Fiber Artist Meetup

Connect with other area fiber artists at

the monthly meetup.

Hours: 5:30pm - 8pm

Cost: Free

Venue: Downtown Monroe, 131 Art Alley Monroe, LA 71201

Phone: (318) 329-2200

March 20

RFM: Bone Broth with Scarborough Farms

Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen and learn how to make your own bone broth.

Hours: 6-8pm

Cost: Varies - rustonfarmersmarket.org

Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: (318) 957-1305

March 20

Dancing with the Louisiana Stars

Join Louisiana Delta Ballet for their annual fundraiser!

Hours: 6pm - 10pm

Cost: Ticket Prices Vary

Venue: Monroe Civic Center, 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway Monroe, LA 71201

Phone: (318) 345-1155

March 21

Open Mic at the Sugar Gallery

Join the NELA Black Creatives Circle for a night of creative expression through words.

Hours: 6pm - 10pm

Cost: Free

Venue: Sugar Gallery, 135 Art Alley Monroe, LA 71201

March 22

Clays for Kids

Join Ouachita Parish 4-H for their annual fundraiser.

Venue: Ouachita Parish Shooting Range, 357 Sheriff Fewell Road West Monroe, LA 71292

Phone: (318) 366-2096

March 22

Landry Vineyards Concert - Black Water Brake

Landry Vineyards is proud to host a concert featuring Black Water Brake!

Hours: 4pm - 7:30pm

Cost: Adult- $10, Young Adult (13-18)$5, Kids 12 and under free

Venue: Landry Vineyards, 5699 New Natchitoches Road West Monroe, LA 71292

Phone: (318) 557-9050

March 22

Black Water Brake Live at the VFW

Enjoy live music with family and friends at the Monroe VFW.

Hours: 7pm - 11pm

Cost: $10

Venue: Monroe VFW, 1499 Highway 594 Monroe, LA 71203

Phone: (318) 345-4185

March 23

BLEND of the Bayou

Don’t miss the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council fundraising event.

Hours: 5pm - 7:30pm

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Venue: Clarke M. Williams Innovation Campus, 100 CenturyLink Drive Monroe, LA 71203

Phone: (318) 397-6717

March 23

World Ballet Company: The Great Gatsby Step into the jazzy world of the Roaring Twenties with this World Ballet Company production!

Hours: 6pm - 8pm

Cost: $39-89

Venue: Monroe Civic Center, 401 Lea

Joyner Memorial Expressway Monroe, LA 71201

Phone: (318) 329-2225

March 24 & March 25

KidsFit Camp at The Wellness Center

Join The Wellness Center for their KidsFit Camps!

Hours: 8:30am - 12:30pm

Venue: The Wellness Center, 3215 Cypress Street West Monroe, LA 71291

Phone: (318) 329-9100

March 26

The Sleeping Beauty

Join the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine for their stunning performance of The Sleeping Beauty!

Hours: 7pm - 9pm

Cost: $55-89

Venue: Monroe Civic Center, 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway Monroe, LA 71201

Phone: (318) 329-2225

March 27

RFM: Tacos with Tacos De Guero Enjoy this class at the Ruston Farmers Market Teaching Kitchen and learn how to make some delicious tacos that all your family and guests will enjoy.

Hours: 6-8pm

Cost: Varies - rustonfarmersmarket.org

Venue: Drew Jones Teaching Kitchen, 220 E Mississippi Ave. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: (318) 957-1305

March 28 - 29

Friends of the Library Book Sale

Ouachita Parish Public Library - West Ouachita Branch will be having book sales on the last Friday and Saturday of every month.

Hours: 9am - 3pm

Venue: Ouachita Parish Public Library - West Ouachita Branch, 188 Cheniere Drew Road West Monroe, LA 71291

Phone: (318) 327-1490

March 28

Monroe Moccasins vs. Mississippi Sea Wolves

Come support the Monroe Moccasins as they take on the Sea Wolves!

Hours: 7pm - 10pm

Cost: Ticket Prices Vary

Venue: Monroe Civic Center, 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway Monroe, LA 71201

Phone: (318) 329-2225

March 28

Ouachita Live

Join Downtown West Monroe for a free live concert on the last Friday of every month through October.

Hours: 7pm - 9pm

Cost: Free

Venue: Alley park, 225 Trenton Street West Monroe, LA 71291

March 28

4th Friday Jazz

Monthly event at the Dixie featuring various jazz ensembles and performers.

Hours: 7pm

Cost: Table for two - $30, General admission - $10

Venue: Dixie Center for the Arts, 212 N. Vienna St. Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: (318) 255-1450

March 29

Lagniappe Saturday - Mike McKenzie

Celebrate the springtime with family and friends at Landry’s!

Hours: 3pm - 6:30pm

Cost: Free

Venue: Landry Vineyards, 5699 New Natchitoches Road West Monroe, LA 71292

Phone: (318) 557-9050

March 30

Rare of Breed Live in Monroe

Join Rare of Breed for their Redemption Tour Pt. 2 at The Hub!

Hours: 6pm - 9pm

Cost: $20

Venue: The Hub, 201 Washington Street Monroe, LA 71201