BayouLife Magazine May 2016 by BayouLife Magazine

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22 / BAYOU PAGES The World at Home 28 / MEREDITH’S MUSINGS She Said Yes...at 20 34 / BAYOU KIDZ The Value of Having Parents That Weren’t Perfect 36 / A. ALDEN’S MEMO Making Your Home Lovely 46 / FISHING WITH KENNY Rods: The Simple Side of Them 48 / I REMEMBER... The Day I Met Jim Valvano 50/ P. ALLEN SMITH Mom’s Favorite Flower

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54 / BING BISHOP The Big Picture 66 / ASK ERIN Less Really is More 91 / THE BROWN HOUSE Kristin and Harris Brown Commission Extensive Renovations 106 / THE (NOT-SO) TINY HOUSE How a Designer and Builder Team Up to Revolutionize the Concept of the New Home 118 / BAYOU OUTDOORS Flooded Fishing 126 / BAYOU ARTIST Jack In The Box: Portrait of Jack Gates

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140 / THOUSAND YEAR STORM How Flood Waters United the Community and Made Us All First Responders 164 / LIVLUXE A Mother/Daughter Affair

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

T’S HARD TO BELIEVE that

the school year is almost over. We’ll be planning summer vacations, seniors will be turning their tassels and we’ll have another opportunity to celebrate one of the most important people in our lives, our mothers. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, my mother is the best in the world. I grew up thinking my mom was really strict…she was. She was a school teacher. My mom started teaching in early twenties and didn’t retire until my first daughter was born. Looking back, I’m glad that she was strict on me. I’m glad she pushed me to do my best. I didn’t understand at the time why I had a 10 o’clock curfew in high school,but you better bet that Stella and Vivian aren’t going to be cut much slack in that department. Turns out that early curfew probably kept me out of a lot of trouble. It’s a strange thing how becoming a mother makes you appreciate your own mother so much more. I tell my mom I love her every day; I can’t imagine my life without her. I only hope that one day my girls will hold me in such high regard. Jeanie Green, you’re the best. Thank you for loving me and Sarah so much. Happy Mother’s Day. For the special moms and grads in your life, we’ve put together a gift guide on pages 182. Every May, we produce our Spring Home Issue. We debated keeping the theme this month, since so many people were in the middle of rebuilding their lives after the devastating flood. But, we thought for those who need it, we would make the resources available. In this issue you will find an article on one of the great developers in our community, Bing Bishop. You can read about our BayouIcon on page 54. We also visit with Larry James and Hud Braud, as they embark on a new development of (not-

BayouLife

so) tiny houses. Read about their journey on page 106. This month’s BayouArtist also holds a place in the realm of homes. An artist, furniture-maker and former professor, Jack Gates has retired to Ruston after an illustrious career. See his story on page 126. We also caught up with Kim Verhagen and Ann Genusa fresh after a total makeover of the popular eatery, The Coffee Bean. Sandy McMillan of Intelligent Designs transformed the restaurant into a chic dining location – matching the interior with the already craveable food the two partners have been serving up for nearly two decades. Read this article on page 148. The first time I saw Krislynne Flowers dance, I knew this girl was destined for great things. Krislynne was awarded a scholarship to dance with the famed Dance Theatre of Harlem this summer. This month, she was our star performer at Shreveport’s Strand Theatre. Special thanks to Meka Bennett and Martin Meyers for capturing the essence of the dancer in this “ballet-inspired” fashion shoot. See it on page 154. We hope you enjoy reading this month’s issue of BayouLife Magazine. Thank you to Rheagan Sutton for coming back into my life, even if it was for only one short month. Congratulations to all of the graduates, be safe on your senior trips and enjoy college! And Happy Mother’s Day to our moms: Jeanie Green, Mary Fuglaar, Phyllis Thompson, Brenda Anderson and Mary Chapman.

1201 Royal Avenue Monroe, LA 71201 Phone 318.855.3185 Fax 318.855.4645

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM PUBLISHER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com EDITOR Maré Brennan mare@bayoulifemag.com STAFF WRITER Michael DeVault michael@bayoulifemag.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Moffett melanie@bayoulifemag.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Gaeb Cardinale gaeb@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Toni Navarro toni@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Ashley Hubenthal ashley@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Amanda Singley amanda@bayoulifemag.com INTERN LaKesha Bowens CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Maré Brennan Dan Chason Kenny Covington Jackie Daily Lou Davenport Michael DeVault Dr. David Finley Cindy Gist Foust Linda Holyfield Janine Hopkins Barbara Leader

Cassie

Paul Lipe Erin Love Stacey Majure Meredith McKinnie Dr. Timothy Mickel Staci Mitchell Delia Simpson Chelsie Summerville P. Allen Smith Beatrice A. Tatem Analeise Thomas

PHOTO COURTESY OF BASH BOOTH

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Arender Scarlett Holland Martin G. Meyers

This past month we were so excited to support the Big Brother/Big Sisters organization and participate in the Peachy Keen Caper. The Sherlock Holmies ran around Ruston, solved puzzles and took home 2nd place! 6 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

ON THE COVER Setting the tone for our annual Spring Home Issue, “The Brown House” offers an inviting retreat on the shores of Phillips Bayou cover photography by Martin G Meyers styling by Kristin Brown BayouLife Magazine is published and distributed by Redbird Publishing, LLC. Circulation: 13,000 copies monthly. Postal subscriptions ($20) can be ordered online at www.bayoulifemag. com. BayouLife Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, manuscripts or other materials. Reproduction of contents without express written permission is prohibited.

Bell’s Will Be Ringing Northeast Louisiana Welcomes a Top Craft Brewer

BY DELIA SIMPSON; CRAFT, SPECIALTY AND IMPORT MANAGER; CHOICE BRANDS, INC.

O SAY THAT BELL’S BREWERY HAD A UNIQUE START would be an understatement. Larry Bell started what would become Bell’s Brewing Company as a home brew supply shop in Kalamazoo, Michigan in 1983. The beer was initially brewed in a 15 gallon soup kettle in the back of the shop. While the company has grown remarkably since its inception, what has not changed is Bell’s commitment to quality, to its community and to brewing flavorful, unfiltered craft beer. One hundred percent family owned and independent, Bell’s ongoing goal is to brew thoughtfully, creatively and artistically. Choice Brands could not be more proud to bring these delicious brews to Northeast Louisiana. Check out some information below on just a few of the tasty selections that will be offered starting in May 2016. Two Hearted Ale (Year Round) Bell’s Two Hearted Ale is defined by its intense hop aroma and malt balance. Hopped exclusively with the Centennial hop varietal from the Pacific Northwest, massive additions in the kettle and again in the fermenter lend their characteristic grapefruit and pine resin aromas. A significant malt body balances this hop presence; together with the signature fruity aromas of Bell’s house yeast, this leads to a remarkably drinkable American-style India Pale Ale. ABV: 7.0% Oberon Ale (Seasonal) Bell’s Oberon is a wheat ale fermented with Bell’s signature house ale yeast, mixing a spicy hop character with mildly fruity aromas. The addition of wheat malt lends a smooth mouthfeel, making it a classic summer beer. ABV: 5.8% Amber Ale (Year Round) Amber Ale deftly balances a mixture of toasted grain and light caramel notes with a range of floral, citrus and herbal hop notes, capped by a clean bitterness. This balance of flavors makes Amber Ale quite versatile as a food pairing option, not to mention being rather tasty in its own right. Whether serving as a jumping point to other styles or as a familiar standby, Amber Ale is central to the Bell’s portfolio. ABV: 5.8%

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Oarsman Ale (Year Round) Designed as a flavorful session beer, Oarsman Ale uses a classic German brewing technique to impart a light, refreshing tartness. Oarsman Ale grew out of a desire to explore the tradition of session beers, trading intensity for finesse while still creating a worthwhile experience for the taster. The grain bill includes a healthy portion of wheat, while citrusy hops lend bright notes to the aroma. It is fermented with Bell’s house ale yeast. Rather than being the dominant flavor note, the tartness in Oarsman takes on more of a palatecleansing role, making it perfect for pairing with food. ABV: 4.0% Kalamazoo Stout (Year Round) Kalamazoo Stout represents stouts in the Bell’s year-round roster, offering a blend of dark chocolate and coffee flavors with just a hint of brewer’s licorice. One of our oldest recipes, it balances a significant hop presence against the roast malt body. ABV: 6.0% Bell’s Porter (Year Round) One of our many award-winning beers, Porter emphasizes the darker, roasted aspects of malt. Hints of dark chocolate and freshly roasted coffee provide the focus, while hops remain in the background. Not as full-bodied as a stout, Porter bridges the gap between malty brown ales and our more heavily roasted stouts. ABV: 5.6% Oatsmobile Pale Ale (Year Round) Aromatic. Approachable. Unique. Intriguing. Happy-go-lucky. Full-bodied. And we’re not just talking about the horse. This hopforward session pale ale uses a blend of classic and modern Pacific Northwest hops, including Mosaic, Equinox and Glacier, for a pungent blend of peach, mango and tropical aromas. The signature ingredient oats - are what makes Oatsmobile Ale stand apart, and gives it a body that you don’t see in most other session Pale Ales. ABV: 4.3% For more information on where to find Bell’s Beer and to find a launch event or sampling near you, go to facebook.com/choicebrands and search for #BellsNELA. There will also be some specialty, limited release items available while supplies last, so you won’t want to miss out!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

Being At Home With Self Explore What Home Means to You BY BEATRICE TATEM, PH.D., LPC-S, NCC, ACS

N THE WIZ AN ADAPTATION OF THE WIZARD OF OZ, Diana Ross, cast as Dorothy sang the song “Home.” She sang, “When I think of home I think, of a place where there is love overflowing. I wish I was home; I wish I was back there with the things I’ve been knowing.” “Home” is a song highlighting one’s journey through life and the strength to move forward despite challenges. This song depicts a shy young woman hesitant to leave home, who finds herself magically transported to the land of Oz while searching for independence, while searching for self. Dorothy travels the land in hopes of meeting with the Wiz, the only one powerful enough to return her home. When you think of home what comes to your mind? The concept of home has an array of meanings. For some, home is a place where a person resides permanently or on a regular basis. Others describe home in terms of a feeling at home versus being at home. Home is described by many as family or being a member of a household. Some given their circumstance and stage in life view home as an institution, a place of care or refuge, such as a shelter, group home or nursing home. For the sport enthusiast, home designates the town from which the team originates, for example home field, home team. Those traveling often refer to home as the city, state or country where they live. For others, being at home is talking on the phone with childhood friends reminiscing about old times despite living miles apart. One woman reported she is at home whenever and wherever she is able to do what she enjoys with the people she enjoys. Many see home as a gathering place where basic needs are met, such as food, shelter, water, care and safety. This writer regards home as more than a dwelling place or object taking up physical space, but as a feeling associated with a deeply rooted emotional environment. It reflects life, energy, the senses, the individual, the family, the place we connect. When encouraged to consider the impact home has had on their conception of self, my clients have shared responses shaped by

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their lives, influences and experiences; responses reflecting their different feelings, thoughts and ideas. Being at home for many represents a secure, safe space where one can be nurtured and prepared for life and when lost can always go back to be found. Our dwellings hold or represent our childhood memories, our teenage decisions and our young adult ventures. Home is often where memories are created, where dreams are developed into one’s reality; where we yearn to leave to experience the world only to return to the comfort of the familiar. Our homes are where we hang childhood artwork only a parent can appreciate, where we are loved, disciplined and where values for life are instituted. Home is where character is shaped, where lessons are taught. It is the base in which the individual is discovered and where the stage is set for success. Environmental psychologists have longed suggested that home is a part of one’s self-definition. How we display our homes is an extension of ourselves. This can be seen in our décor, how we arrange things and why we hold on to the “stuff“ we collect. It is a reservoir of one’s memories and a testament to one’s life, good and bad. Home can be a sanctuary, in which one experiences positive qualities, such as security, privacy, belonging and comfort, creating a healthier sense of self. Counter to this, home is where we can also feel despair, hurt, pain, hardship, criticism, loss and grief. I am mindful as a result of the recent flood, home is more than where you are, it is who you are, it is where the heart and spirit lies, it is where you are in terms of your mind, body and soul. As clients, colleagues and friends, some temporarily displaced, some homeless, strive to move on with their lives without the items symbolic of their lives, I am reminded of the notion home is wherever you find yourself and as long as “home” is within you, you are at home. For more information about counseling services and outreach programming contact Dr. Tatem at Wellness Initiatives, LLC 1900 North 18 th Street, Suite 414, Monroe, La 71201, 318-410-1555 or at btatem. bt@gmail.com.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

The Journey to Better Hearing Take the Next Step Today at Audibel the Hearing Center

ACH MAY, WE CELEBRATE NEW beginnings, such as graduates going on to new adventures, the return of green grass and the sounds of birds chirping. This festive month is important for another reason as well; May is “Better Hearing Month!” This time of year, we reflect on the importance of better hearing and how our many patients have benefited from hearing care. Yet for many, May is not a month of better hearing. All too often we hear from the children, friends or spouses of individuals that refuse to accept their hearing loss difficulties. These companions reach out to us in hopes of setting an appointment for a free hearing consultation on behalf of their love one, but that person still prefers to not participate. What they are experiencing could be the important, yet easier to ignore, early signs of hearing loss. These early signs of hearing loss typically include having difficulty comprehending speech in noisy environments, straining to hear conversations on the phone, struggling to listen to music or television at normal levels as well as persistently asking others to repeat themselves. For close friends and family members, these symptoms are quite noticeable. As hearing loss progresses, the symptoms will occur more frequently and severely, ultimately leading to withdrawal from social events. At Audibel, we want you to make May what it can be for all- a better hearing month! Whether it is yourself or a loved one experiencing hearing loss, take the first step today. For the next few months, we will take

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a look at the process of getting hearing aids at Audibel, and it all starts with making an appointment for a hearing consultation. A hearing evaluation is a no-obligation and simple procedure that can offer many longterm health and lifestyle benefits. Yet many people experience a little anxiety when visiting an unfamiliar business. Knowing a bit more about the hearing evaluation process will alleviate some concerns. One reason more people don’t take advantage of our offer for a free hearing check is apprehensions for what takes place during this appointment. This month, we will begin to explain that process and remove any concerns for making an appointment. When first entering the hearing clinic, Jeanine Hicks, our patient care coordinator, will greet you. She will check you in and help you with any paperwork. The hearing specialist will then begin the appointment by asking a series of lifestyle questions to gain insight into what your listening needs might be. This will help the specialist understand specifically which type of situation you are not hearing as well as you should. Next month, we will take a look at the hearing evaluation and screening, followed by hearing loss solutions and finding a custom model to fit not only your ear, but also your lifestyle. We want you to know that the hearing consultation is a simple and unintimidating process that is geared towards helping you identify if any hearing loss exists and determine the best course of action to help improve your hearing. We offer a complimentary hearing consultation every

day at our office and are happy to help you or a loved one with an appointment. Beginning with our front desk, our staff is very friendly and will make you feel comfortable, but don’t take our word for it. Take a look at what some of our clients have to say about their experience at Audibel: “My experience with Audibel and their staff has far exceeded my highest expectations regarding service, product and compassion towards me and my hearing needs. I recommend Audibel and their staff to anyone needing hearing assistance.” – Paul J. Binkley, PCLA “I am completely satisfied with my hearing aids and the service and friendly atmosphere at Audibel. I would/will recommend them to everyone!” – Anonymous “My experience at Audibel The Hearing Center has been wonderful! I really can’t say enough about the staff! They are always so gentle and always explain everything to me. They have helped me tremendously!” – Barbara Glover “I’ve never been treated any better in any other office than I have been treated by the staff at Audibel The Hearing Center!” – T. Bunch

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

What’s Your Vision of Beauty? Haik Humble Eye Center Wants You to Imagine the Possibilities

AIK HUMBLE EYE CENTER offers advanced cosmetic and medical aesthetic services to our practice offerings. Our services are provided in a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere utilizing the latest technology and highly qualified professionals to deliver great results. Our goal is to help you achieve healthier and younger-looking skin. We’ve focused our advanced technology on treatments for improving skin’s health and appearance, as well as cosmetic procedures for the eyes and surrounding area. Whatever your vision of beauty, Haik Humble Eye Center makes it remarkably affordable. PHOTOFACIALS Most people seeking skin rejuvenation to restore a smoother, more youthful appearance or to correct certain skin issues will be ideal candidates for photofacials. Photofacial treatment uses intense pulsed light (IPL) to remove skin imperfections and stimulate collagen and elastic fiber production, thus creating healthier and smoother skin. The gentle, non-ablative treatments use broad spectrum light to treat the face, chest, neck and hands—virtually anywhere that sun damage shows. The process is ideal for anyone with active lifestyles, because the procedure requires no downtime and has a low risk of side effects. Photofacials can improve the signs of sun damage, rosacea and brown spots on the face, hands and body. It has also been used to reduce the appearance of mild acne scars, dark circles around the eyes and fine lines around the eyes and mouth. At Haik Humble Eye Center, we utilize the Lumenis M22 laser

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for IPL Photofacial treatments, which is the gold standard platform for cosmetic skin treatments. PATIENT SATISFACTION Photofacials have a very high measure of patient satisfaction. Patients are very pleased with treatment results, because the process treats the full face, neck, chest or hands, rather than addressing a single isolated area or imperfection. With a series of treatments, IPL technology can help restore a more youthful appearance with no downtime or a prolonged recovery necessary after other types of treatments Several appealing qualities of IPL Photofacials which result in very high levels of patient satisfaction: • IPL treatments are quick, gentle and noninvasive. There is no interruption of routine activities. • By helping to remove the age spots (suninduced freckles) and broken capillaries, the result is overall more even, luminous, younger looking skin. • Patients can see dramatic results within a very short time. WHAT TO EXPECT Each pulse of the laser lasts less than one second and may produce a slight tingling feeling. In particularly sensitive areas, such as the upper lip, it may feel like a quick pinch. After the treatment, a moisturizer is applied with sunscreen. If there is any mild swelling, a cold pack may be applied for five or ten minutes. Commonly, patients can reapply foundation or concealer immediately after treatment.

Each treatment session takes about 20 to 45 minutes to perform, depending on the size and location of the targeted area. Usually four to six treatment sessions are recommended to produce optimal results. After the photofacial treatment, patients can return to work and other regular activities the same day. The skin may appear slightly flushed and capillaries may appear more visible, but these changes are often unnoticeable to others. It is important to protect the skin from sun exposure for the first few months after treatment to promote proper healing and long-term results. EXCELLENT RESULTS Most people will experience a disappearance or significant reduction in skin irregularities after a series of treatment sessions spaced several weeks apart, although results depend on the type and severity of the condition being treated. Sun spots and other forms of sun damage tend to darken after treatment and then shed from the skin after one to two weeks. People with rosacea often notice a decrease in redness and a return to a more normal skin tone within a week after treatment. Those with spider veins may experience a full or partial fading of affected vessels after 10 to 14 days. Achieving smoother, more beautiful skin is now easier and more comfortable than ever before. The professionals at Haik Humble Eye Center will develop a customized treatment plan in order to achieve the desired results for each patient’s individual condition. Call us today at (318) 325-2610 to schedule a FREE consultation.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

BAYOUBUZZWORTHY FOUNDER’S DAY CELEBRATION

On March 5th, 2016, the Alpha Rho Chapter of Phi Mu Fraternity for Women celebrated its 60th Anniversary at a special Founders’ Day Luncheon. The ceremony and luncheon was held at the Student Union Building at ULM, so all who attended could see the wonderful changes and advancements the university has made throughout the years. This was the largest Founder’s Day celebration in Alpha Rho History, with nearly 400 in attendance. In attendance were alumnae, including 60th and 50th members, collegiate members and their mothers. The keynote speaker was Past National President, Frances Mitchelson, also an Alpha Rho alumna. A silent auction was held where a total of $3355 was raised, to be split between CMNH and a Phi Mu Foundation scholarship.

SNIFF CANDLES

We love a good smelling candle, especially one that is for a good cause. The new line of Sniff candles do both. Not only do they smell amazing, but all proceeds benefit the Humane Society Adoption Center of Monroe. The candles come in Maple Butter, Seaside Escape, Apple Pie and Vanilla Bean with plans on releasing more scents like Polo Black, Cucumber Melon, Dark Kiss and Love Spell. Each candle is only $15 and will go to help out pups right here in our area. You can pick some up at the shelter or at local stores like Dot Dot’s Boutique.

CENTURY VILLAGE GROUNDBREAKING

On March 31st, in the CenturyLink Technology Center, a Groundbreaking was held for the new Century Village. Century Village will be the home for not only the new IBM Building but also for the Traditional Village mixed use community now gaining popularity in other markets. The new 88 acre development is said to bring tremendous growth, around 400 jobs, to the community. Construction is scheduled to begin Summer 2016.

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF MONROE

This past month, The Junior League of Monroe officially welcomed 26 new members from the 20152016 provisional class. The ladies have served as provisional members in the league for the past year and will be active members next year, serving on various committees under the direction of League President, Ashley West. The reception was hosted by sustainer members at the home of Cyndy Perry.

MR. P’S TEES

Our friends over at Mr. P’s Tees have done it again with their shirts that give back. After the recent floods, they felt led to create a special shirt to raise money for the flood victims. In just six days, the local tee company took pre-orders and raised $35,782.52!! All of this money was donated to First West to go towards helping victims of the flood and recovery efforts. We are so glad to have people like Lissy and Brent Compton in our community!

A FLORAL EXPLORATION

Congratulations to Monroe Garden Study League’s member, Debbie Stockstill, on her first place finish for her Medium Niche at the famed Philadelphia Flower Show. The 2016 show was themed “Explore America: 100 Years of National Park Service.” Debbie’s medium-sized niche celebrated the Everglades National Park in Florida. Complete with a snake, which Debbie created of botanical material and adored by the floral design judges, her blue ribbon-winning arrangement used innovative plant material, such as tillandsia and orchids, as well as a gorgeous piece of gnarled wood. Debbie is currently the Coordinator for the Flower Arranging Study Group within The Garden Club of America.

THE GIFT OF LIFE

The Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency (LOPA) and St. Francis Medical Center hosted a “Wall of Heroes” recognition on Monday, April 4. The “Wall of Heroes” includes pictures and stories of organ and tissue donors from St. Francis Medical Center. Donor family members, hospital, and LOPA staff were present for the program to honor those heroes who gave the ultimate gift of life. After the program, everyone met outside of the downtown St. Francis Medical Center Emergency Department to pause for a moment of silence and raise the Donate Life flag in honor of those who gave the gift of life.

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WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

Put On Your Red Dress and Pumps Northeast LA Go Red for Women Luncheon

HE AMERICAN HEART Association’s Go Red for Women® movement is the world’s largest female network that stands together to save women’s lives from heart disease. Millions of women have united to raise their voices about their No. 1 killer. Go Red for Women Declaration We believe in the power of a woman’s heart – the power to love, the strength to fight and the will to overcome. But there is a force that threatens our hearts and is killing our mothers, sisters, daughters and friends. We Go Red for Women who are rocked by a diagnosis and struggling through treatment, so they may emerge victorious to embrace life. We Go Red for Women who touched so many lives before they lost their own. We Go Red for Women because it’s time to put our health first. We Go Red for Women because no one should fight alone. For each other, we are a hand to hold, a shoulder to cry on, a backbone that’s always strong. When we Go Red for Women, we step up whenever and wherever so that every woman may live. And we will never stop until this fight is won. Because the power of a woman’s heart is the difference between life and death. Together, we Go Red for Women. Each year in Northeast Louisiana, many of our mothers, sisters, daughters and

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friends are impacted by heart disease and stroke. For women, the best line of defense is to stay informed about the risks, to know the red flags and their family heart health history. Despite the statistics, there is hope. Inside every woman is the power to live a longer, stronger life. The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement seeks to provide women with the tools and resources they need to reduce their risk of heart disease and stroke. Go Red for Women luncheons and special events are hosted annually around the country, including here in Northeast Louisiana, to help raise awareness and show unified support for the cause. Mark your calendar and make plans to attend the 2016 “Get Pumped Up” Go Red for Women Luncheon on Thursday, May 26th at the West Monroe Convention Center. Proud 2016 Cause Sponsor is the Glenwood Heart and Vascular Institute. The annual Go Red event is always a fun-filled and highly anticipated social occasion. This year’s luncheon will be no exception! Attendees, distinguished guests and area sponsors will enjoy mingling, photo ops, a delicious lunch and an exciting Survivor Runway Show directed by fashion designer, Christian McCray. The event will also feature the popular “Red Purse” Raffle and Silent Auction that will be full of fabulous finds and trip opportunities. Showcasing the event will be “Open Your Heart” spokeswoman, Eva Edinger, Miss Louisiana Tech 2015 and congenital heart defect survivor. At 15 months of age,

Eva was diagnosed with a heart defect that required major surgery. She will share her compelling story about the days of uncertainty, her long road to recovery and how it forever changed her life. Tickets are $50.00 and may be purchased at the West Monroe-West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce located at 112 Professional Drive in West Monroe. For more information, sponsorship opportunities and to purchase tickets by phone, call (601) 321-1210. About Glenwood Regional Medical Center: At Glenwood, we recognize the need for comprehensive heart care, from diagnostic and intervention to rehabilitation and prevention. For this reason, our Heart and Vascular Institute is a provider of some of the most advanced cardiac care in our region. As 2016 cause sponsor, Glenwood is proud to support Go Red for Women in Northeast Louisiana to better educate women about the risks of heart disease and to promote wellness throughout our region. To learn more about Glenwood’s comprehensive heart and vascular services, call 877-726-WELL or visit www.grmc.com. For more information about the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women Movement visit goredforwomen.org.

Material Things

Everything You Need to Have Your Home Looking Its Best

S MATERIAL THINGS SPRINGS forward into our seventh year of business, we continue to build on what we started in the beginning. We offer a wide selection of custom order drapery and upholstery fabric, drapery hardware and professional drapery installation. Our drapery workroom is among the best in customer satisfaction, offering a three to six week turnaround. Material Things offers in-home consultations and is happy to assist the customer with everything from paint choices to fabric choices. A new addition for us is the Nest fragrance line, which includes candles, diffusers, liquid soap and hand lotion. The candles and diffusers are carefully crafted with the highest quality fragrance and oils and are designed to continuously fill your home with a lush, memorable fragrance. Nest liquid hand soap contains natural plant extracts and helps clean and nourish the skin while leaving behind a light, uplifting fragrance. The fast-absorbing hand lotion contains natural botanicals, antioxidants and plant extracts to help protect and condition hands while leaving them feeling soft and hydrated. It is also good to know that Nest products are made in the USA. Even though the Lili Alessandra name is not new to Material Things, her 2016 collection is more beautiful than ever – from fine linens to soft furnishings! Their philosophy is to create beautiful, luxurious textiles that inspire individuality, with aesthetics that are classic, timeless and elegant. New to the Lilli Alessandra line is the 20 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Moderne Collection and was designed with clean crisp lines that work in a modern venue. The personal blanket is made large enough to work at the foot of a queen or king bed or could be used as a twin size comforter. Material Things offers a complete line of Miles Talbott/Michael Thomas upholstered and slip covered furniture. Founded in 1933, their mission is to design, build and deliver affordable top quality furniture. Constructed in High Point, North Carolina, their furnitures offers eight-way hand tied suspension, lifetime warranties on their kiln-dried hardwood frames and spring-fiber cushions. A multitude of fabric options are available, or they have the capability to use a customer’s own material. There is a wide selection of lighting available at Material Things, both in stock and through special order. From lamps to sconces to chandeliers, we have just what you are looking for to light any room in your home. Some of the lines we carry include Regina Andrew, Uttermost, Gabby Home and Aidan Gray. If you need a wedding, birthday or anniversary gift, we are the place to find candles, vintage Florentine accessories, pillows, artwork and picture frames. This season is the time to celebrate moms and graduates, and the Alexa Pulitzer line that we carry is a perfect gift for either. This line features New Orleans flora, streetcars, trumpets, elaborate music notes, crowns and of course, the iconic fleur de lis. We carry a variety of stationery pieces, including cards and notepads, as well as cups, napkins and coasters.

Plus, we have one of the area’s largest selections of Caldrea home products. Caldrea was founded on a simple and powerful idea—that caring for our homes should be a beautiful experience. They create incredible, effective formulas that are addictively pleasurable to use and are crafted to be safe for you, your home and the earth. From dish soap to countertop spray to an allpurpose cleaner, their earth friendly products make caring for your home enjoyable and satisfying. Caldrea also features a laundry detergent and fabric softener that keeps your clothing and linens as fresh and fragrant as the rest of your home. We are proud to carry The Original Clementine Hunter Collection. Clementine Hunter is regarded as one of America’s most famous folk artists. Her paintings are exhibited extensively throughout the United States, as well as internationally, though Clementine herself chose never to venture more than a few miles from her home in Cane River Country, near Natchitoches, LA. These pieces, that include dinner plates, salad/ dessert plates, mugs and a soup/salad bowl, have been carefully reproduced to reflect her memories captured on canvas of days gone by. Even the smears and smudges remain in order to more accurately reflect her primitive style. The collection is dishwasher and microwave safe and is available by the piece or by the place setting. Whether you are looking for the perfect gift for mom, something to send the graduate off in style, a wedding present that would make any bride happy or something special for your own home, Material Things has it all!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

NIGHTSTANDS & COFFEE TABLES The World At Home

hen Dallas designer Michelle Nussbaumer invited BayouLife editor Maré Brennan into her haute design boutique Ceylon et Cie last month, the resulting photographs and peripatetic narrative Nussbaumer weaves around the globe stunned many of us into dreams of Magellanesque adventures. Who wouldn’t want to spend a holiday in Marrakech among objets d’art that traveled across the continent on the back of a camel? Of course we want to visit a Turkish bazaar and buy the dining room rug from the weaver’s brother. For as long as there have been humans, there have been travelers. And for as long as there have been travelers, there have been collectors and traders. The evidence of humanity’s capacity to trade in foreign goods stretches back to the earliest human sites on the planet. Perhaps the supreme joy of travel, though, is that moment when, at last, we unlock our door, step inside, and drop our treasure-laden carry-on on the foyer floor. The concept of home begins and ends with travel. So this month, we’ll take a journey through the world of decorative arts, beginning with that Wanderlust Nussbaumer instilled, making our way around with The New Bohemians before settling back in with Bill Bryson At Home. Wanderlust: Interiors that Bring the World Home by Michelle Nussbaumer The verb “curate” means to select and organize a group of items. Coincidentally, the same word as a noun is the position held by one who assists a priest or other religious leader. When it comes to Michelle Nussbaumer, who is often described as a curator of global 22 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

REVIEWS BY MICHAEL DEVAULT design, the more worshipful usage might just be apropos. Enter as evidence Wanderlust: Interiors that Bring the World Home (September, 2016), Nussbaumer’s forthcoming coffee table tome chronicling her World Design travels and work. In stunning pictures, the book documents Nussbaumer’s impressive career of traveling the world, selecting fine décor items, and serving myriad clients across the planet. Each photo underscores her eye for bringing a certain worldbeat feel into design. Whether it’s a specimen of fine African textile or a statement piece from Asia, Nussbaumer’s eye provides the visual stimulus to make this interior design book both inspiring and entertaining. You’ll have to wait a bit, but it’s available for pre-order at all major booksellers. We’ve seen Ceylon et Cie, and we know Nussbaumer. So it’ll be worth the wait. The New Bohemians: Cool and Collected Homes by Justina Blakeney They’re hip, they’re cultured and they’re traveled. They live their lives like intercultural exchange ambassadors, and their homes are the kind of eclectic hodgepodge of color and artifact that Hollywood cinematographers dream of. They grow their food and make soap, all before heading off to a long day’s work as hedge fund analysts, computer programmers and accountants. These are the New Bohemians, and they have the life you want. Such is the thesis of Justina Blakeney’s The New Bohemians: Cool and Collected Homes (November, 2015), the masterful narrative cast by the famed L.A. designer, who recounts her personal tales of interior design in dorm rooms at Berkley and apartments in Tuscany

and takes the reader on a literary journey inside those delightfully overwrought spaces we envy. Equally eye candy and instruction manual, The New Bohemians gives readers tips and tricks and shows them in action in stunning full color photos. Blakeney’s design acumen aside, The New Bohemians is a great read for any lover of that perfectly cluttered corner, the artfully jumbled shelf, or that formal dining table with the legs sawed off. Leave it to Blakeney and her subjects to suggest a half-dozen alternative uses for that box of sarongs you brought back from your honeymoon. At Home: A Short History of Private Life by Bill Bryson Whether we’re traveling to Tibet or Target, we eventually--we hope--end up at the same place: home. This concept of a private space where we live our private lives has led to a curious series of design innovations in housing, from indoor plumbing to the parlor. The origins of these personal spaces are the loam in which master storyteller Bill Bryson grows At Home: A Short History of Private Life (October, 2011). American-expatriate-cum-adoptedEnglishman Bryson sets off on his journey using only his home, a charming Victorian vicarage in rural England. Leading readers through each room, Bryson calls on his nearly infinite knowledge of all things to tell the unique, quirky, and sometimes funny, sometimes disturbing stories behind those everyday objects we take for granted. For fans of Bryson, At Home is a great addition to the bibliography. For those who’ve never read him, At Home is a great first step inside what may well be the most inquisitive mind on the planet.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School Quality Catholic Education Complimented By Enhancement Classes

VER THE LAST DECADE, SCHOOL SYSTEMS ACROSS the United States have shifted their curriculum to focus primarily on the common core subjects of reading and math, cutting out enhancement subjects, such as art, music, foreign language and quality physical education classes. It is widely known that a core curriculum plan, as well as a child’s cognitive development, is intensely benefitted by enhancement classes and activities. Students who take enhancement classes are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement and three times more likely to be awarded for school attendance. In fact, new research shows that not only does music improve skills in math and reading, but it promotes creativity, social development, personality adjustment and self-worth. It is also widely known that a quality physical education class improves overall academic success, motor skill development and self-confidence, as well as facilitates the development of a student’s personal responsibility for their own health and wellness. At Jesus the Good Shepherd School, we realize the vitality of enhancement classes in a well-rounded education. Our visual art class curriculum, Meet the Masters®, introduces students in grades PK4-6th grade to artists who have made significant impacts on the world around us. From Degas to Warhol and everyone in between, artists’ personal lives, techniques and inspirations are explored within age appropriate lessons. Students complete each section of Meet the Masters® with not only a better understanding of the art and artist, but of the world as it was during the artist’s life and what made the particular artist important in history. Another aspect of the art curriculum at JGS is our music classes for Kindergarten–6th grade. Mrs. Lori DiGiulian, our music teacher, is a professionally trained voice coach and instrumental musician, who guides the students through various styles and genres of music. In addition, students in the fourth, fifth and sixth grades participate in the JGS Hand Bell Choir, which performs at the school as well as occasional Masses. In addition to the arts, the physical education curriculum at Jesus the Good Shepherd is organized and based on sound educational and neurological research. Studies prove that the

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more physically active school children are, the better they do academically. Participation in P.E., sports and physical activity are shown to decrease cardiovascular risk in youth, provide beneficial effects on mental health and enhance brain function and cognition. In addition to our physical education curriculum, our newly implemented Mighty Milers Program and Presidential Physical Fitness Program teach children how to be successful in activities and sports and also how to take personal responsibility for their own health and wellness. We strive at JGS to make sure our students get the proper combination of physical and academic exercise. Adding to our list of enhancement classes at JGS is our Spanish program. Studies have shown that children who learn a foreign language demonstrate certain cognitive advantages over children who do not. Foreign language learning increases critical thinking skills, creativity, and flexibility of mind in young children. The Accelerated Reader program, an organic school garden, as well as Computer Literacy classes which incorporate the Keyboarding Without Tears® program, and an up-to-date, well equipped library round-out the enhancement aspects of a Jesus the Good Shepherd education. The importance of including enhancement classes within the curriculum is obvious to anyone who tours Jesus the Good Shepherd School. Over the years, JGS students have proven that they take the skills and confidence obtained from engaging in enhancement classes and use them not only within the classroom, but also outside of school…for life. Registration for the 2016-17 school year is well under way, and grades are filling up fast. In addition, the JGS Summer Camp program, which is open to PreK–6th grade students who are registered for the 2016-17 school year, will begin May 31st and run through July 29th. For more information, we invite you to take a guided tour of Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School with our principal, Ms. Lisa Patrick, every Tuesday at 9:00 a.m. or by appointment. Call the school office at (318) 325-8569 with any questions or to schedule your tour. You may also visit our website at www.jesusgoodshepherdschool.org to learn more about Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

The Leader in Orthopaedic Care North Louisiana Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Clinic Sidney L. Bailey, MD Dr. Bailey is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon, who has practiced at the Orthopaedic Clinic for over 35 years. His primary interests include mini-incision total knee and total hip replacement surgery, in addition to computer assisted and MRIassisted total knee replacement surgery. David M.Trettin, MD Dr. Trettin is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon with Fellowship training in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy and subspecialty certification in Sports Medicine. Having practiced at the Orthopaedic Clinic for 21 years, Dr. Trettin’s areas of interest include shoulder and knee arthroscopy and sports medicine. Grant A. Dona, MD Dr. Dona is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon with Fellowship training in foot and ankle surgery. He has extensive experience in operative and nonoperative management of foot and ankle conditions and a variety of other general orthopaedic conditions. He has practiced at the Orthopaedic Clinic for 21 years. R. Brian Bulloch, MD Dr. Bulloch is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon and has practiced at the Orthopaedic Clinic for over 20 years. He specializes in total joint replacement, as well as shoulder and knee arthroscopy. Dr. Bulloch’s practice interests also include surgical and non-operative management of upper and lower extremity conditions. 26 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

W. Sol Graves, MD Dr. Graves is Fellowship trained in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine and is Board Certified in Orthopaedic Surgery with subspecialty in Sports Medicine. Dr. Graves’ areas of interest include arthroscopic treatment of shoulder and knee injuries. Timothy D. Spires, Sr., MD Dr. Spires is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon, who practices General Orthopaedics that includes musculoskeletal diagnosis, surgical management of conditions of the extremities and non-operative management of spinal conditions. Jose L. Ferrer, MD Dr. Ferrer is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon with Fellowship training in spine surgery. He performs the most advance surgical techniques, including minimally invasive spine surgery, with special interest in spinal revision, adult deformity and reconstruction surgery. Jeffrey R. Counts, DO Dr. Counts is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon and is Fellowship trained in Sports Medicine. In addition to treating all types of sports related injuries, he is accredited in minimally invasive spine surgery. Dr. Counts specializes in outpatient micro discectomies, as well as cervical and lumbar fusions. Daven Spires, MD Dr. Spires is a Board Certified General Orthopaedist. His interests include fracture

care, total and unicompartmental joint surgery and sports injuries. He has been privileged to utilize the latest in robotic assist technology and patient specific instrumentation. Martin J. deGravelle, MD Dr. deGravelle is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon with Fellowship training in shoulder, elbow and hand surgery. His interests include arthritic and traumatic problems of the upper extremity, arthroscopy of the shoulder, elbow and hand, as well as tendon repairs and reconstructions in the elbow, wrist, and hand. Kristopher C. Sirmon, MD Dr. Sirmon is a General Orthopaedist who trained at LSU Medical School and Residency (Level 1 Trauma Unit). He frequently performs total and partial joint arthroplasty, anterior approach and total hip arthroplasty, sports and trauma procedures. Dr. Sirmon is also a team physician for Neville High School and ULM. James S. Finley, MD Dr. Finley is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon who has practiced in North Louisiana for over 30 years. He practices general orthopaedics but enjoys treatment of arthritic joints, especially knee and hip replacement.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

Meredith’s Musings She Said Yes...at 20 |

By Meredith McKinnie

t was a fresh out of college Southern fairytale. He proposed; she said yes; everyone rejoiced, well…everyone but me. I remember the day I saw the Facebook post from her mother announcing the engagement. I was aghast, and mad, and frankly, disappointed. She was only twenty years old. It was too soon. I remember thinking what I would tell my twenty-year old self if I had had the chance. It would no doubt have been a loud, insistent, “Don’t get married! You don’t know who you are!” Let me back up a bit. She’ll remain nameless, but she’s beautiful, one of those girls that is so inherently good that her beauty almost seems to radiate, like her appearance is untouchable, but weirdly made more genuine by her wholesome nature. She loves animals more than people, but you’d never know it considering how generous she is with others. She’s a believer, and not the Sunday believer, but the light shining from within believer who aims to walk the walk. She’s the type of spirit you want good things to happen to regardless of the fact that she is genetically

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gifted and sparked by the innocence of her youth. You can’t help loving her. And because I love this person, see so much potential in this person, I want the best for her. I’ve been so proud of her decisions in life thus far. I had faith in her to keep making wise decisions. And then she said, “yes”… and my faith began to crumble. This has more to do with me than her. It’s my experience that makes me fear the weight of this decision made at such a young age. So then the irony happened; she asked me to help her write her wedding vows. I chuckled when I read the text. While I may be the most qualified person she knew in terms of writing, I was perhaps the person with the least faith in this decision. I pondered the opportunity over and over. Do I tell her how I feel? Do I at least warn her? Do I have a responsibility because of what I know from making the same choice around the same age? And the truth is, I just didn’t know. So she came. And she’d done all the homework I had requested: words to describe her groom, words to describe how he made her feel; anecdotes about their time togeth-

| MARRIAGE

er; what he had taught her about love, etc. It was an impressive list. As I read through it, the anxious look of nervousness on her face as I examined bits of her relationship on a piece of torn out paper softened me. She had her whole future in front of her. She was mature. She was grounded. She had faith. They shared their faith. It was more than I had had when I took vows. Who was I to judge? Just because I hadn’t been ready at twenty-one didn’t mean she wasn’t. I was right to be cautious, but sometimes we have to take a leap of faith. It’s the leaps we remember, not the times we took a step back. I decided not to say anything, to focus on the task at hand, to help her write the words to express her love to the man she had chosen. It’s beautiful when you think about it. It was an honor to even hear them ahead of time, much more to help compose them. I fell in love with their love story that day. I fell more in love with her that day. And for the first time in over a decade, I began to believe in the hope of young love again. And two weeks later on a Saturday afternoon, I watched her walk with her dad down the aisle, with tears streaming down her father’s face, and again that twinkle of hope and love and innocence and possibility radiating from the tears in the corner of her own eyes. She was happy. She didn’t seem scared or concerned or nervous she was making the wrong decision. That was my fear, not hers, and sometimes it’s best to keep our fears to ourselves, letting others radiate in the cosmos of life’s joys. She’ll find her own way, and God willing, they’ll find it together. That twenty-year old new bride taught me to let hope trump fear, and she did it with the same innocence I’ve always adored and without even knowing she did.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

Fitzco Marine Construction Introducing the owners of Fitzco Marine Construction and River Marine Works

ITZCO MARINE GROUP HAS BEEN PROVIDING marine services for the waterfront of the U.S. for over 37 years. In conjunction with River Marine Works, we offer Pile Driving (Steel, Fiberglass and Wood) and Floating Docks for all of your marine needs. Mike Fitzpatrick, owner/founder of Fitzco has spent all his life on and around the water and started in business in 1979 at the age of 19. Having been instilled with values and principles from the beginning, he truly operates his business by the Golden Rule. Joe Terracina, owner/founder of River Marine Works was born and raised in Northern Louisiana and shares the same philosophy and general business practices, especially when it comes to the treatment of our customers. At Fitzco, we do many things differently… For A Reason. We believe that your dock should secure your boat, not the other way around. Over the years, we have developed equipment and processes specific to improving our finished product while increasing efficiency. This has led to unmatched ability and quality in the maritime construction industry in the areas of pile driving (we can even drill and install piles in bed rock), bulk heading, floating and fixed structures and underwater recovery of sunken vessels. With us, it’s about designing it and building it correctly….once. If it’s already been built and is not performing, we will redesign it and rebuild it correctly….once. If you choose us for your next project on the water, whether it’s replacing pilings, installing a bulk head, building a new floating or fixed pier or an elaborate custom boat house, prepare to be impressed. We have partnered with Joe Terracina of River Marine Works on the Ouachita and Red Rivers, as well as local lakes, in Northern

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Louisiana to bring you unsurpassed local customer service and quality for all your marine construction needs. River Marine Works offers Jet Dock, a unique option for getting your boat or jet ski out of the water which attaches to our floating or fixed structures. • Drive-on docking/Slide off launching • Lifetime Limited Warranty • Remarkably durable • Won’t rust, rot, corrode or splinter • Non-polluting • Maintenance-free • Static lift docks do not require electricity • Excellent resale value • Modular Flexibility • Drive-on designs for any quantity, type and combination of craft up to 50’ in length • Easily reconfigured to meet future docking needs It’s simple. Fitzco and River Marine Works want you to enjoy more time on the water! Contact us today by calling Mike Fitzpatrick (318-584-7003) or Joe Terracina (318-665-0190 or 318-614-2406). 323 Moon Lake Road, Monroe, LA 71203 P.O. Box 466, Shell Knob, MO 65747 • 417-858-BOAT (2628) 212 Flat River Road, Bossier City, LA 71112 • 318-584-7003 Fitzco Marine Construction • AirHoist Boatlift Systems Century Maritime • MariTow U.S. “Serving the waterfront of the U.S. since 1979”

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

DR. WALTER SARTOR

Take Charge LCWLS Can Help

EATHER HOULDRIDGE GILMORE CHOSE TO transform her life with the gastric sleeve procedure at Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery in August 2014. She has successfully maintained her 95-pound weight loss. At first, Heather was hesitant to have the surgery, because she worried it was the “easy way out.” She experienced a few life-changing moments that caused her to think differently. “There were some pictures of me in a dress that I thought looked absolutely fabulous on me, but when I actually saw the pictures, I thought, ‘There’s no way I really look like that.’ Then I went on vacation, and after seeing my vacation pictures, I thought, ‘There’s no way I’m going to look like that for the rest of my life. I’m going to change it.’” Heather has struggled with excess weight since the age of 12. “After I had my third baby and could not lose the 30 pounds, I knew I had to do something for myself and my family. The surgery was the best thing that I have ever done. It has changed my life in so many ways; I will be forever grateful. I also love that I have a tool that helps me maintain and continue weight loss.” Her tool—a much smaller stomach—allows her to make healthier choices while still enjoying food. “I am able to eat wonderful things and still maintain a healthy weight. I don’t feel like I miss out on anything anymore. I love that I have a new lease on life.” While Heather was initially nervous about the surgery, she ultimately opted for the benefits of a healthier BMI. “I knew that every surgery had some risk, but I also knew that being so overweight put me at a greater risk for heart disease, diabetes and so much more! I was more scared of those diseases than I was of having surgery.” Her bariatric surgeon, Dr. Walter Sartor, and her dietitian, Marci Parker, helped prepare her for the surgery in a way that calmed her fears, she said. “They did a wonderful job teaching me how to use my new stomach as a tool for successful weight loss. I received wonderful care from the nurses at P&S Surgical Hospital. I couldn’t have been more pleased. Heather says she is no longer self-conscious and can enjoy life with her three children in a way that was not possible before losing the 95 pounds. “I have so much more energy and stamina. I wish I would have done this 15 years ago. I feel like I have an active lifestyle now, and

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I’m able to enjoy life with my family, especially my kids. I have been horseback riding, zip lining at Disney World, riding bikes and playing on the floor with my kids.” Heather experienced a magical moment when trying on clothes in her new size 10. “One of my favorite moments occurred when I walked into White House Black Market. I had never shopped there before because they didn’t carry my size. They started bringing me clothes, and they brought me a smaller size than I was expecting. When the clothes fit, it was honestly like a moment from the movie, ‘Pretty Woman.’ I realized I wasn’t that big girl anymore. In that moment, I cried. I was so thankful that I had decided to change my life with this surgery.” THREE MYTHS ABOUT WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY Myth #1: You need to be at least 100 pounds overweight to qualify for the surgery. Truth: While being 100 pounds overweight does qualify one for the surgery, other health conditions can qualify a patient for the procedure. If you have a BMI of 35 and associated health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnea, you may qualify for the procedure. Myth #2: Weight loss surgery is the “easy way out.” Truth: Weight loss surgery is a tool, not a cure. To maintain long-term success and a healthy weight, you will need to commit to lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a healthy food plan. The Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery’s Total Lifestyle Care™ program provides a team of professionals – your surgeon, nutritionist and lifestyle counselors – to guide you as you learn and implement new habits. Myth #3: People no longer enjoy food after surgery. Truth: Most people can enjoy a wide variety of foods, albeit in smaller quantities. The gastric sleeve surgery is unique in that it works with a special chemical in your brain to control certain cravings. Many patients find the absence of cravings to be helpful in maintaining their weight loss. Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery, an accredited bariatric program, is a partnership between Dr. Walter Sartor, P&S Surgical Hospital and St. Francis Medical Center. Like us at facebook.com/LCWLS and call us today at 1-866-821-LIVE.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

B AYOUKID Z

MOTHER’S DAY The Value of Having Parents That Weren’t Perfect article by Cindy G. Foust

ay is here, which means we are nearly half way through this calendar year (I’m blowing out of the starting gate this month with a rhyme.) Time is flying at the rate of a speeding bullet, and we find our BayouLife community staring into the face of summer. Before you know it, I’ll be writing my column on building snowmen and riding our sleds through the woods on a snowy evening (shout out to one of my favorite poets, Robert Frost.) I’m just kidding, of course, it will be more like turning our ceiling fans off, so we don’t blow the tinsel off the tree, right? So where was I? Oh, I haven’t even really started, so the good news is, I’m not off topic…yet. Yes, May is here, and we are also staring into the face of a holiday that celebrates the lives of someone that most of us hold especially, dear, our mothers. In previous columns for BayouLife, I’ve written about celebrating the lives of our mothers, and even made suggestions on arts and crafts and special meals to help in the celebration. For my “daddy” readers out there, don’t hit the panic button yet. This month’s column is not about making a mosaic out of a broken wine bottle or building a birdhouse out of popsicle sticks. Rather, this year, I decided to make this column more about reflection instead of celebration. I often write about the hustle and bustle of the busy lives we live. We are all guilty of it, and if your family is like mine, we sometimes have to stop and make an appointment to see each other. In fact, my 10-year old daughter has gotten in the habit of scheduling routine “family meetings.” When I started working on this month’s column, and leaning toward writing about Mother’s Day, I started thinking about what this day actually meant to me, as a mother, and what this day means to me with regards to my own mother, and other women who have played a significant role in my life. As I near the half-century mark in August (that’s 50 years old on August 29th, and coconut cake is my favorite for any interested and attentive readers), I find myself doing this a lot…you know, reflecting. To start with, and I’ve shared this with my readers before, I never wanted to have children of my own. It’s a philosophy I can hardly believe I ever subscribed to, because quite frankly, motherhood is the single most important and single most sacred thing to me in my life. Motherhood changes everything, so can I get an amen? But to be honest, I’m not sure I would have ever known how to be a good mother, or even where to begin, had it not been for the example my own mother played in

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my life. They say we can be the products of our environment, and I’m no philosopher, but I certainly think there’s some credibility in that statement for many of us. Growing up in Mayberry on Walton’s Mountain like I did, in days that seemed to move much slower and much more methodical than they do now, my mother was an attentive, fun, caring and resourceful mom. I mean, how many moms play softball until they are nearly 60? My mom made it a priority to have meals on the table, to make sure our schoolwork was done and to make sure my sisters and I had everything we needed (my brother, John, doesn’t really factor in this equation, because I was 11 when he was born, so “Baby Jesus” lived with a different set of parents with a different set of rules, than we did…and just like their grandchildren do!). But more important than all of that, my mom was there for us, cheering on our accomplishments and helping us through every crisis we had, and that we still have to this day. No one was a bigger supporter, no one cheered louder, no one listened more intently than “Mama.” My sisters and I never doubted my mother’s love and devotion to us, even when she was forced to exercise her parental control. But one of the most profound moments, and one of the most compelling experiences of my teenage years, was not when my mom talked me through a break-up or when she did her best to make me feel less like the “gazelle” I had been called and more like the “swan” that she saw, but it was when my mother apologized to me. Did you hear me readers? She apologized…a simple act of apology that has stayed with this writer for nearly 35 years. As a matter of fact, she committed that apology to paper, a note I still keep in my treasure chest. As we all know, they don’t give us an “owner’s manual” when we have these kids. There are no rules, no protocol on how to parent. My very dear friend, the late Barbara Harkey, told me one time that good parenting often was the result of dumb luck. Maybe so, but in the absence of any “How To Manual” our point of reference, especially with our first born, is probably based more on instinct and our own experiences than anything else. No, my mom had no hesitation when making her apology, for a mistake she felt she had made as a parent. I’ll never forget waking up on Christmas morning, and having this heartfelt, hand-written note in my stocking. But looking back on it now, as a parent myself, the value of that lesson has stayed with me until this day, and because of it, I find myself many times, apologizing to my own children. As parents, (I’m talking to you dads, too), we are not perfect. Continued on page 153

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

Dallas and Atlanta based fashion sales representative for Reeves & Company, Analeise Reeves Thomas, details her idea of what makes a home lovely.

hen you visit a home, what is it that you remember most? Is it the furniture? The artwork? Is it the flooring or wallpaper? Maybe it’s the beautiful appliances. For me, I remember the small things. The special pieces. The details. My most favorite homes are the ones that are filled with objects that make me feel something when I’m there. Tokens from travels across the globe; sterling and china handed down for generations; gifts from friends and family members who are no longer with us. My mother, Amanda, grandmothers Linda and Sally, Cathi Roberts, Lori French, all have inviting spaces that I admire for not just their aesthetic but for their attention to detail. They are fully cognizant of the old adage “a home should feel collected, not decorated.” I’ve highlighted 3 ways to make your home more inviting, personal and unique to you. Group Art & Photos Together One of my most favorite rooms in my home is my library- the walls are a dark inky charcoal blue and feature a gallery area with family photos and pieces of art. I love how the eye is immediately drawn to the grouping when you walk in the room. It 36 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

features nude sketches and 1960’s fashion house advertisements from the Paris and Cannes flea markets that I purchased during my stay in France in 2009. They cost no more than 5 euros each and bring back so many fun memories every time I look at them- I love telling the stories behind each one. The black and white family photographs provide a stark contrast. I think it’s always important to showcase your family in your home, whether in a hallway or a more central area. People are intrigued by family lineage and history and it’s important to showcase yours. I like to make sure when hanging the framed pieces that they are similarly separated but not too uniformed- a cluster of sorts is best. A mixture of frames and mat sizing is stylish and key. If you plan to start a gallery wall, make sure you off set it with furniture underneath. On one side of mine is a brass bar cart filled with crystal, fashion coffee table books and of course, bar essentials. On the other side is an antique miniature chest and chair. Curate Your Coffee Table A thoughtfully arranged coffee table is the mark of a truly stylish interior. It often indicates your attention to detail and a design point of view beyond the ordinary.

Plus, it’s a great place to experiment with and highlight special objects that might otherwise be lost on a bookshelf. From gorgeous photography books to your favorite oversized Cire Trudon or Diptyque candle to objets d’art, the possibilities are endless. Fresh flowers from your yard will spruce up your table and make you feel so happy! I also love a piece of earth, i.e. reef coral, something made of malachite, a wooden box, etc. My mom taught me a great styling trick- open your favorite coffee table book to a beautiful page and then place a small object on one side to keep it open. Love! Highlight Your Spirituality If you identify yourself as a spiritual person, then showcase that. Two of my most treasured objects are a gold gilded cross above my back door and a holy water font crucifix by the door in my bedroom. Often they aren’t noticed by others but stand out to me daily. Our homes are to be a sanctuary of peace and what better way to remind ourselves of that than to fill our dwellings with earthly things that point to our Creator. Place your leather bound Bible on a side table or a Star of David pendant draped on a velvet pillow.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

Margaritas with a Twist Marsala Beverage Introduces the Bud Light Lime-A-Rita Family

PRING IS IN THE AIR. CINCO DE Mayo and summertime are upon us. With warmer temperatures, you are most likely looking for a change in pace with your everyday cocktail. Well, look no further than the Bud Light Lime-A-Rita Family… perfect for any occasion from a night out to a day at the beach. Sit back, relax and enjoy the great flavors from Bud Light Lime-a-Ritas! (Also, now available in 8 oz. glass bottles.)

time mixing and blending. Just pour over ice and enjoy! 6% ABV

THE BUD LIGHT LIME-A-RITA FAMILY Bud Light Lime-A-Rita The original Lime-A-Rita flavor, Bud Light Lime-A-Rita has the great taste of a lime margarita with a twist of Bud Light Lime for a delightfully refreshing finish. Just pop the top, pour over ice and enjoy! 6% ABV

Water-Melon-Rita New Bud Light Lime Water-Melon-Rita combines the great taste of a watermelon margarita with a refreshing twist of Bud Light Lime and is a perfect complement to your summer. With Lime-A-Rita, there’s no need to spend time mixing and blending to prepare a watermelon flavored margarita. Just pop open, pour over ice and enjoy!

Bud Light Lime Raz-Ber-Rita Bud Light Lime Raz-Ber-Rita has the great berry taste of a raspberry margarita with a twist of Bud Light Lime. Check out budlight.com for delightful summertime recipes. 6% ABV Bud Light Straw-Ber-Rita Fiesta forever! Bud Light Lime StrawBer-Rita has the great taste of a strawberry margarita, perfect for summertime, with a twist of Bud Light Lime for a delightfully refreshing finish. 6% ABV Bud Light Lime Mang-O-Rita Bud Light Lime Mang-O-Rita has the great taste of a mango margarita with a twist of Bud Light Lime for a delightfully refreshing finish. There’s no need to spend 38 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Bud Light Lime Lemon-Ade-Rita The Summer’s New Squeeze! Bud Light Lime Lemon-Ade-Rita has the great taste of a lemon margarita with a twist of Bud Light Lime for a delightfully refreshing finish. Lemon-ade-rita is only available for a limited time, so enjoy it before the summer ends.

RITA MIXING RECIPES Lymon Razz a Rita Refreshing blend of Raz-Ber-Ita and mixers, great for a summertime gathering! Make for yourself or in a batch for parties! Ingredients: • Raz-Ber-Rita • Sprite • Cranberry Juice Garnish: • Fresh Mint Sprig Method: Fill an ice cube tray with Raz-BerRita and freeze over night. Cubes will not completely solidify but will form. Fill glass with ice made from Raz-Ber-Rita. Fill glass with Sprite but allow enough space for a

splash of fresh cranberry juice. Baby Breeze A Rita Family twist on a beach classic. Pour, sit back and enjoy the waves! Ingredients: • 4 oz. Raz-Ber-Rita • 4 oz. Mang-O-Rita • 2 oz. pineapple juice • 2 oz. cranberry juice Garnish: • Lemon Method: Combine all ingredients into glass. Pour over ice and garnish. Pomegranate Straw-Ber-Rita A tart and delightful concoction, perfect for a cocktail party. Ingredients: • 4-6 oz. Straw-Ber-Rita • 2 oz. Pomegranate Juice • 1 oz. Cherry Juice Garnish: • Lemon Wheel • Cherry Glassware: • Highball Glass Method: Fill glass with ice. Combine Straw-BerRita and pomegranate juice. Add a splash of cherry juice. Garnish and serve. For more great Rita mixing recipes, please visit: http://budlightlime-lime-a-rita. tumblr.com/tagged/recipe

We’re Expecting!

Trinity Cheer Athletics Is Growing by Leaps and Bounds ARTICLE BY JACKIE DAILY | PHOTOS BY JACKIE DAILY PHOTOGRAPHY

RINITY CHEER ATHLETICS IS RAMPING UP TO celebrate their first year of providing quality training for cheer athletes of Monroe, Louisiana. What better way to celebrate than with a new addition? As summer break approaches, Gym Director Erin Taylor and the rest of the gym’s co-owners, Leisha and Duke McHugh and Cindy and Mark Lindstrom, do not have their minds set on fun in the sun. Instead, they are finalizing the plans for their new addition, due at the start of the new training season, August of 2016. In August of 2015, Trinity Cheer Athletics opened the doors of their 5,800 square foot gym, featuring two cheer floors, a parent viewing room and a plush parent waiting room. TCA instilled a progressional program, meaning that students have to master certain skills before moving to the next level. This program helps to ensure that all TCA’s athletes are provided ample training to advance in their desired tumbling future. Erin Taylor has been coaching and training in Monroe for 10 years. She is well known to the cheer community as being an effervescent personality with a caring heart and an effective coaching style. She believes that coaching is not only about the physicality of the athlete, but also about the mind and spirit. With these things in mind, she handpicked her training staff of 20, bringing their unique strengths to add value to every spectrum of her training program. TCA’s staff is made up of some of the top coaches in this area, including head ULM and Neville coach, Peaire Allison. Erin has made it a top priority to keep pushing her trainers to grow by bringing in leading professionals, like David Patton, Head Tumbling Coach for The University of Kentucky Cheer Program, and attending workshops with her trainers that ensure her staff is up to date on the latest techniques and safety measures. Parents to her athletes have felt that their children are receiving the utmost level of attention from the staff. Erin and the trainers work cohesively, hand in hand, to ensure that every athlete is reaching their potential, and parents enjoy this sense of family and community. TCA trainers see the potential in their students, and push each of them to reach their own highest levels of physical accomplishments while at the same time building up their self-confidence and their belief that they can be all that they strive for through dedication. All of the staff at TCA are passionate about building the leaders of tomorrow, not just 40 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

creating good cheerleaders and tumblers. This reputation of being a hardworking group of top trainers to trust, directed by a personality that pushes for excellence and known for being a basket toss above of the rest, quickly brought in a full list of athletes. TCA works with other cheer coaches from our area schools to ensure that their teams are getting quality training. Erin is coaching other Coaches at TCA by helping them advance their already innate coaching strengths and showing them how to be the best influence they can in the lives of the kids that walk through their doors. TCA is the home to many of our area’s schools cheer squads including our local college ULM. River Oaks, Sterlington, Neville, Ouachita and St. Freds are also proud to call TCA their training gym. With interest pouring in from surrounding areas like West Monroe and Ruston, a new addition seemed like a no-brainer. Trinity Cheer Athletics is thrilled to be doubling their floor space, from 5,800 square feet to 11,600 square feet! Not only are they expanding their floor space, but they are ecstatic to share the news that they will be the only gym in the area that offers the indispensable training feature of a foam pit. The 21’x20’, 6 foot deep foam block filled pit with 2 spring floor strips and a tumble track connected will be used to help athletes that may need an extra boost of confidence when mastering challenging skills. The foam pit helps take the place of the spotter that an athlete may be too attached to. This guarantees that the athlete can leave any inhibitions or fears behind, because there is no way to fall into anything but soft foam. When that fear is gone the TCA athlete will see that they can indeed master this skill and continue to grow. The addition of this exclusive foam pit training feature is just another helpful tool to prevent injury and build confidence among TCA Athletes. TCA co-owners Leisha and Duke McHugh, and Cindy and Mark Lindstrom, are adding to the excitement, too! They are opening Black Bayou Convenience and a restaurant right next door to the gym, allowing parents and athletes to pick up snacks, waters, and meals with ease. Trinity Cheer Athletics looks forward to being able to call you a part of their TCA family. The excitement is building; be sure to sign up now! Trinity Cheer Athletics is located at 7595 Highway 165 N in Monroe.

Egret Landing

Phase II of Development Unveiled in May

ESTLED BETWEEN BAYOU DESIARD AND BLACK Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Egret Landing is an attractive residential development, which exemplifies the perfect blend of luxury and leisure. Egret Landing is surrounded by nature trails, lakes and bayous; just minutes away from The City of Monroe and within easy reach of restaurants, shopping, work and schools. Phase I of Egret Landing has been so successful that Phase II is ready to be unveiled. According to David Sorrell, Egret Landing’s Director of Development, the groundbreaking for the next phase of this beautiful residential development will take place this month. Sorrell encourages those interested in learning more about events or receive more information about properties available at Egret Landing to go online at www.egretlandingmonroe.com. Once on the website, click on the Contact link and fill out the form to indicate your interest and be added to their email alert list. Egret Landing’s newest phase of development sits high and dry on the natural ridge that runs along the banks of idyllic Bayou DeSiard and backs up to Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge, an extremely biodiverse wildlife preserve that will always remain unspoiled. According to Sorrell, no lots throughout Egret Landing flooded during the recent high water disaster of March 2016. While there are still a few remaining lots unspoken for in Phase I, the time is right to open up the next phase of Egret Landing for those who desire an uncompromising lifestyle. Offering a wide array of options for families is key to understanding the concept of living at Egret Landing. While Phase I has been zoned as part of The City of Monroe, including utilities and schools, Phase II of Egret Landing has been zoned for The Town of Sterlington. Families with students living in Phase II would be able to attend Sterlington’s Elementary, Middle School and High School and take advantage of Sterlington’s utilities as well. Phase II will include 19 bayou frontage lots, 10 townhouses that overlook the large greenspace filled with amenities, 1 refuge lot, 9 lots that are accessed from the front and 48 smaller lots that are accessed through a rear loading alleyway. All of Phase II backs up to the wildlife refuge offering glimpses of large deer, playful

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red foxes and extraordinary opportunities for bird lovers to see a huge array of species. Lots throughout Egret Landing range from $65,000 and up. “No other community in all of Northeast Louisiana is going to have an amenities package like Egret Landing,” says Sorrell. With trails that meander the wilds of Black Bayou Lake NWR, an amphitheatre complete with a stage, a playground designed specifically for little ones, a Little League ball park, basketball court and a pavilion designed for gathering, Phase II of Egret Landing is building on the strong reasons to consider life amid the live oak lined streets of the development. Other amenities include a public boat ramp to Bayou DeSiard, underground utilities, AT&T U-verse Internet connectivity, Atmos Energy, security cameras and streetlights throughout, sidewalks that run throughout the development and multiple roundabouts to slow traffic. In addition, thoughtful architecture plays a large part in ensuring a cohesive feel throughout Egret Landing. For example, all architecture must meet certain requirements, like a minimum of 9 foot ceilings, specific roof pitches, clay roof tiles and gas lights, for example. Says John Mitchell, an associate director of Holyfield Construction and an avid outdoorsman, “There is no better place in Monroe than Egret Landing to have the feeling of being in nature, yet you have the ease of being in downtown Monroe in minutes.” Adds Sorrell, “And the aesthetics of the surroundings will never be spoiled, because the refuge is federally operated and can not be developed.” For your own private tour of Egret Landing, call David Sorrell at 318.547.7084 or email at david@holyfield-inc.com. Be sure to sign up at www.egretlandingmonroe.com/contact to learn more about finding your family’s place within this unique development at one with the beauty of nature and the necessities of modern living.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

Albritton Photography Let Us Capture Your Special Moments BY STACI ALBRITTON MITCHELL

LBRITTON PHOTOGRAPHY IS NORTHEAST Louisiana’s premier full service professional photography studio. Our knowledgeable staff has served clients for well over twenty years with outstanding service and quality photography. We are known for our superb baby portraits and children’s photography, as well as family portraits. We love children of all ages. Senior portraits are one of our favorite types of photography to do. We offer everything from classic portraits to the latest in trends. High school seniors receive the VIP treatment at Albritton Photography. We know how important your senior portraits are. We want you to make sure that you not only look great but have a memorable experience as well! We do not want to give you the same boring photos you have seen again and again. So let us create portraits that reflect how unique YOU are! We are open to all ideas and will accept the challenge of creating something you will love. INDOOR STUDIO Albritton Photography has a huge indoor studio. We have tons of backgrounds and props for you to choose from. You can feel free to bring your own props too, if you have something particular in mind. OUTDOOR STUDIO If you are more into the natural look, we also have a two-acre outdoor studio designed for portraits. The beautiful grounds are perfect for a variety of looks. I GOTTA HAVE IT If you can’t decide between the two, you can always choose our “I Gotta Have It” session. This is the ultimate photo session. It includes traditional, artistic and modern imagery in color and

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black and white. You can be photographed both at our indoor studio and outdoor studio at a location of your choice. This enables you to show off your personality. You get several outfit changes with this choice and between 80-100 images to choose from! So if you want your senior portraits made by Albritton Photography… Here’s what to do. • Decide which session you want to do (visit our website for more details.) • Choose a couple of dates (Check out the specials we offer on our website.) • Call or come by Albritton Photography to schedule an appointment. We are located at 406 N 6th Street in West Monroe. If you have any more questions, our helpful staff will be glad to answer them. At Albritton Photography we offer professionally printed portraits from a custom photography lab. We aren’t going to just hand you a CD with images to get printed at a discount store. Who wants discount store portraits? When it comes to your senior portraits, you want to do it right. The time has come… Graduating seniors are almost done, so now it’s time for Seniors 2017! Kick off your senior year by getting your senior portraits scheduled. Albritton Photography offers Senior Specials starting June 1st! Call or email Albritton Photography to get on our email and texting list. As you can see, exciting things are happening at Albritton Photography. Visit us at www.albrittonphoto.com, check us out at AlbrittonPhotography on Facebook, find us at AlbrittonPhotography on Instragram or just do it the old school way, and come by our studio and see us! We can be reached at 324-9118 or staff@albrittonphoto.com.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

RODS THE SIMPLE SIDE OF THEM article by Kenny Covingon

n a world that is full of technological advances, it is hard sometimes to wrap our minds around just what it is we are looking for, what we need or even what we want. These upgrades go from the simple to the complex and reach all aspects of everyday life. They even apply to the fishermen. Back when I was introduced to this great sport, the standard setup for the time was a 5 ½ foot Lew’s speed stick rod teamed up with an Ambassadeur 5000 reel. This rod/reel combination was used for every type of fishing situation; worm fishing, crankbait, topwater or whatever the technique. My how things have changed. In today’s fishing world, the rod and reel choices are endless. Now it seems that you can find a rod for every technique you can name. It has almost become overkill. Drop shot, shallow cranking, deep cranking, topwater, flipping, pitching, Carolina rigging, frogging, shakey head, spinnerbait, chatterbait and the lists goes on and on. The question begs to be asked, “Do we really need all these types of rods to be successful on the water?” The answer is yes and no. To the tournament angler, having multiplerods for several techniques is as vital as a full set of clubs is to a golfer. To the casual angler, this may seem extreme, but it can be argued the need for multiple outfits for even the occasional trip to the water. Multiple rods allow for multiple choices of lures, and multiple lures allows the fishermen to quickly cover the water spectrum to find and catch more fish. So when it comes to choosing the correct

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rod, what are we looking for? Some people buy strictly by name brand, while some base their decision on the rod’s factory warranty. Some fishermen will go as far as to buy whatever their buddies are using or have had success with. While there is nothing wrong with any of those reasons, here are a couple of things you want to keep in mind when making a rod purchase. First of all, ask yourself this, “What am I going to use this rod for? Will it have multiple uses?” Many times fishermen will buy a 7 foot medium/heavy action rod for flipping and pitching but also use the same rod for throwing a Carolina rig. Or maybe purchase a 6 ½ spinning outfit for drop shotting but also in turn use it for shakey heads and other light tackle. The more you can do technique wise with your rod purchase, the more valuable it will be. The next thing you need to ask is, “How much do I want to spend?” Every fishermen has a budget. In all of the years I have fished, I can’t recall ever paying much more than $100 for a rod and often times much less. There are those who will give you the “you get what you pay for” argument, but I tend to disagree. Many rod companies are manufacturing good products with reliable warranties as well as maintaining good customer service and all the while keeping their prices affordable. One thing to always remember, the cost of the rod will not make you a better fisherman. Here are five rod set ups every fisherman needs to have: • A 6-6 ½ medium action spinning rod for throwing lighter lures or when throwing

shakey heads or dropshots. Make this setup even more effective by using a 6/20 or 8/30 braid for your line. • A 7-7 ½ medium/medium heavy casting rod for Carolina rigs, swimbaits, deep crankbaits or even heavier topwaters. This can also be used for flipping and pitching and is also versatile enough to use different line sizes and types, such as fluorocarbon and braid. • A 7 foot medium/medium heavy casting rod for spinnerbaits, squarebill crankbaits, and buzzbaits, but this can also be used for Texas rig worm fishing and other soft plastic applications. • A 6 ½ medium action casting rod for throwing topwaters and smaller crankbaits, as well as Rat L Trap style baits. • A 6 foot medium/heavy rod for using in tighter quarters where a normal cast isn’t feasible. This rod is also good for spinnerbaits, buzzbaits and heavier walking topwaters, such as a Spook. With these five choices, I can cover 98% of the techniques that will catch bass on our area lakes. Fishing, or gearing up to go fishing, shouldn’t be a complicated matter. Hopefully when it comes to purchasing your next rod, we have offered you a few tips that will make your next choice an easier one. Please take care on the water and catch one for me! See you next month!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

I REMEMBER article by Paul Lipe

I REMEMBER the day I met Jim Valvano. For those readers who are not followers of college basketball, Valvano was the charismatic coach of the North Carolina State Wolfpack, a team that surprised everyone by winning the 1983 NCAA championship. It was my good fortune to spend some time with this prominent coach in the winter of 1985, and something he said on that occasion made a lasting impression on me. Now how did it come about that I had the privilege of meeting a man of Valvano’s stature? Well, it was like this: my son, Jonathan, was a pretty good high school basketball player and was being recruited by a number of colleges, including N.wwC. State, whose ace recruiter was Tom Abatemarco (in the spring of 1986, Coach Abatemarco would be the speaker at Delhi High School’s All-Sports Banquet). Our family was spending the Christmas vacation with our parents in North Carolina, and while we were there, Abatemarco arranged for Jonathan, Jonathan’s grandfather and me to attend a practice session and watch the Wolfpack work out. After practice, we met some of the players and then were invited to spend some time with Coach Valvano in his office. It was there that he said the words that greatly elevated him in my esteem. He showed Jonathan the two rings he was wearing – on his left hand was his wedding ring, and on his right, the NCAA championship ring. Referring to the NCAA ring, he said, 48 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

“This was the hardest to get, but” and then he pointed to the wedding ring and continued, “this one is the most important to me.” The truth of what he affirmed that day was borne out several years later when, as Coach Valvano struggled with and finally succumbed to cancer, the love between him and his wife was so clearly evident. The ring on his left hand represented something of inestimable value; his wife and his relationship to her were more important to him than was the National Championship – that speaks so much to my heart! Unfortunately, not everyone has such a high set of principles. In fact, we might all do well to ask ourselves, “How do my values stack up against those of Coach Valvano?” Such self-examination is important, because having proper values is a key to enjoying a life that is meaningful and fulfilling. Sadly, many lives are empty and devoid of genuine happiness, because poor values result in a person pursuing that which ultimately does not satisfy. So, may I ask you, what in your life do you value most, and are you content with your value system? For instance, as parents, are we more concerned that our children secure jobs that will provide them with lots of money and prestige, or do we want for them a vocation that will give them the opportunity to use their God-given talents in a role that is satisfying and that affords them a way of ministering to others? And how many individuals do we know

who have paid a heavy price by valuing the immediate gratification offered by alcohol, drugs or sex more than the satisfaction that results from a disciplined embrace of a principled life. This cost of poor values ranges from great financial loss and broken health to the even greater loss of hope. You see, poor values lead to bad choices that often result in devastating consequences. We all are acquainted with people who, because of flawed values and poor choices, are living lives that are far from gratifying. Let us understand this–what one values makes a big difference in the kind of life he leads and in the quality of that life. The wisest, most loving person who ever lived gave this mandate: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” It has been my observation that those who try to follow that directive by seeking to please God with a life that is shaped according to His values are among the happiest, most contented, and most successful people that I know. And I recall, with sadness, others whose memories are plagued by poor choices and missed opportunities–friends or family members who are experiencing life that affords little happiness and who have scant prospect that things will improve. So I encourage us to do a “ value check.” And if the values that we embrace are not leading us down a path of fulfillment and genuine contentment, let’s start making some changes. Jim Valvano showed real wisdom with regard to what he valued– may we be as wise as he.

P. Allen Smith Hydrangeas

Mom’s Favorite Flower

othing is more comforting to me than a border full of blooming hydrangeas on a warm summer day. My mother had a bank of cool blue hydrangeas in the dappled shade beside her home when I was a child. I was amazed at the giant blooms that were as big as my head, and their rich, vibrant hue was almost other worldly. Hydrangeas are a great addition to any garden. They bring a lush fullness with rich, dense foliage and beautiful blooms that, depending on the species and variety, can last from summer through fall. They are easy to grow and can produce a multitude of colors ranging from crisp blue, to icy white, vibrant pink, lavender and hot pink. They provide an excellent backdrop to any perennial bed. To get the most out of your hydrangeas, they’ll need nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. If you need to, amend your soil with compost to provide a strong base for your hydrangeas. Choose a spot that gets full sun in the mornings and some afternoon shade. Many hydrangeas will still bloom in partial shade, but they need some sun if you want the nice, big showy blooms they are known for. Before you start planting, it’s important to decide which kind of hydrangea you want to introduce into your garden. There are 50 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

many different types of this classic flowering shrub that can be grouped into three main categories: old-fashioned bigleaf, oakleaf and peegee. They are all beautiful, but produce different types of flowers and need slightly different care, so read your garden label carefully before making your choice. Bigleaf, or Hydrangea macrophylla, are the most popular by far. These include the classic mophead with large round blooms, as well as lacecaps with gorgeous clusters of lacy flowers. Both of these types of bigleaf hydrangeas can produce beautiful shades of blue and pink flowers. Bigleaf hydrangeas do best in zones 5-9 and bloom on old wood, so do not over prune them and protect their branches in the winter. If needed, you can shape them or prune dead branches back immediately after flowering is finished. Control the color of these bold blooms by adjusting the pH of your soil. Add aluminum sulfate to the soil to encourage a blue flower color or lime to make the blooms pink. Oakleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea quercifoli, is known for its long lasting flower power and its gorgeous oak leaf shaped foliage that changes to shades of purple, orange and bronze in the autumn. White flowers emerge on these shrubs in clusters in the summer, and fade to a lovely pinkish-brown toward the end of fall. These large hydrangeas are

hardy in zones 5-9 and can reach heights and widths of up to 6 feet. Very little pruning is needed since growth emerges on old wood— simply cut back any branches that suffered damage in the winter. Peegee Hydrangeas, or Hydrangea paniculata, are not nearly as common as bigleaf and oakleaf, but they are just as beautiful. This unusual shrub thrives in zones 3-8, and is sometimes referred to as a “hydrangea tree” because of its massive height and ability to be trained into a single trunk shape. These shrubs can reach heights of up to 25 feet and flower a bit later than most hydrangeas. Look for large white panicles containing tons of white sepals to emerge in mid-summer. These lovely flower heads will fade to pink in the fall for added interest in your landscape. Blooms emerge on new wood, so wait to prune until early spring. There are so many lovely hydrangea varieties on the market today, it’s hard to choose which should make its home in your garden. If you are still having trouble narrowing it down, here are a few of my favorites from each hydrangea category. Whichever choice you make—the dense, bold color of a bigleaf mophead, the romantic drooping panicles of a peegee or the bright white exploding blooms of the oakleaf— you simply can’t go wrong when you add hydrangeas to your landscape!

A I grow Let’s Dance® Moonlight (medium pink), Cityline ® Paris (rose) and Let’s Dance ® Starlight Hydrangeas at Moss Mountain Farm. photo - Mark Fonville B O ld-Fashioned Hydrangeas (H. macrophylla) is one of the most popular blooms in the summer garden. photo -

Jane Colclasure

C Lacecap Hydrangeas are a member of the H. macrophylla family. Unlike their

pompon cousins, lacecaps form flat flower heads. photo - Jane Colclasure D H ydrangeas are one of my favorite cut flowers. Dipping the stem in a little

alum helps make the blooms last longer.

photo - Jane Colclasure

E L et’s Dance Starlight Hydrangea is a lacecap that will bloom pink or blue depending on the pH of the soil. photo -

Jane Colclasure

F ‘ Limelight’ peegee hydrangea’s flowers open chartreuse and mature to a creamy white. As the temperature cools in autumn the petals are tinted with pink. It’s a superb bloom for drying. photo -

Mark Fonville

G The Oakleaf Hydrangea is the most regal of the bunch. The stately flowers and foliage are beautiful in a shaded garden.

photo - Granacher

Cut Hydrangeas

HYDRANGEA ALUM DIP

• P ick up a bottle of powdered alum at the grocery store. You can usually find it in the spice section. • Cut your hydrangea blooms in the morning while the weather is still cool. • Immediately place your cut hydrangea stems in a pitcher of water. • As you create your arrangement and recut the stems, dip the bottom half inch of the stem into your bottle of powdered alum. • Arrange and fill the container with water.

Moss Mountain Farm

LUNCH TOURS EVERY THURS & FRI End of April - Until July 1 $90 per person came to Moss Mountain after my mother visited “Ihere last fall. She told me it was a MUST for my

“

Another great thing about hydrangeas is that they make wonderful cut arrangements. You can dry them to create a piece that will last and last, or cut them fresh from your garden and create bold, colorful arrangements to brighten your home. However, cut hydrangeas can sometimes be tricky. On occasion you’ll see them wilt and droop just an hour or two after being cut, for no apparent reason. Here’s a little trick I use to keep my cut hydrangea arrangements looking fresh and lasting longer.

trip from Colorado to Alabama – she was so right; just beautiful. - Rob Overall, Denver, CO

Grab your friends and come visit us. Tour the opulent gardens and Allen’s private home. Then sit down to a garden-to-table dining experience selected from Allen’s best-selling cookbook. Space is limited. Visit www.PAllenSmith.com, email gardenhome@pallensmith.com

or call Joyce at 501.519.5793 to make your reservation!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

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rive across north Monroe and it’s almost impossible to not notice the fingerprint developer Bing Bishop has left on his city. Whether it’s an office park near Lamy Lane or an enclave of stucco and marble off Loop Road., Bishop’s work occupies corners and fills lots with the kinds of buildings that weave themselves into the fabric of our perceptions of home. As he moves into his seventh decade, Bishop has begun to reflect on his life’s work and the legacy he hopes to leave in the town he’s called home for almost all of his life. It’s a legacy that begins far away from projects such as Pargoud Place, away from the buildings he’s erected and even the family he’s raised. Bishop’s story doesn’t begin with construction or, like so many baby boomers of his generation, with an epiphany in college. It starts in a butcher’s shop.

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“I was fortunate enough to have some really good mentors at a very young age,” Bishop told BayouLife. A 1963 graduate of Ouachita Parish High School, Bishop attended just a single year of college at ULM, then Northeast Louisiana State College, before deciding college wasn’t for him and embarking on a trade career instead. What to some might sound like an ill-informed decision, to abandon education in favor of work, was instead for Bishop recognition that his education had begun years before, with those mentors, the employers who taught him that hard work, business sense and drive were the road to success. The first of Bishop’s many mentors was a Monroe grocer and butcher named Forrest Davis, a well-known and respected owner of grocery stores and meat markets. Bishop recalls numerous childhood trips to the grocery store, the cases of quality meats and the way Davis operated his business. “My parents bought groceries from him, and that’s how I

BI NG

BISHOP

THE BIG PICTURE Bayou Icon Bing Bishop reflects on the relationships that shaped him, the road to success, and recognizing the value of community. By Michael DeVault Photographs by Brad Arender

got to know him,” Bishop said. From a young age, Bishop noticed how Davis interacted with his customers and their families, and by the time Bishop entered high school and began looking for a part-time job, he knew Davis quite well. The grocer put him to work in one of the grocery stores, first bagging groceries. Bishop exhibited a curiosity about the work he was doing and a desire to do a good job, traits that impressed Davis enough that Bishop soon began doing other jobs in the grocery store, from stocking shelves to cutting meat in the market. “He was like a father figure at work,” Bishop said of his relationship with that early mentor. “He treated me like one of his own children.” For Davis’s part, he helped to shape Bishop into an efficient worker who understood customer service and that relationships with people are where a successful business begins. Eventually, Davis turned Bish-

op loose on one of the most important jobs in a grocery store—helping customers find what they are looking for as one of the store’s floor personnel. In the grocery business, there is perhaps no more important a role, and in many grocery stores, the role was reserved to the owner or members of the owner’s immediate family. But Davis had succeeded in something, and Bishop knows precisely what that something was. “He made a people person out of me,” Bishop said. By 1966, just three years out of school, it was time for Bishop to move on from the grocery business. Over the years he had worked there, he developed a keen sense of customer service, he knew how to help people, and, perhaps most importantly, after years of wandering the aisles of grocery stores, he understood the retail experience. He met a man named Midkiff, a Minnesotan who owned a company that manufactured fixtures and designed interiors for stores. Midkiff hired WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

“It took a lot of years to do what I wanted to do, but we’re finally getting it done.”

Bishop to help design the interiors, and before long, Bishop found himself sitting in front of one of Midkiff’s newest clients. “Back then, I think Sam Walton had maybe 30 or 40 stores,” Bishop recalled. He and Midkiff would hop aboard Midkiff’s company plane and fly to Bentonville. There, Midkiff would discuss the details of new store development with Walton and, during the course of the meeting, Bishop would sketch out the designs. Before each meeting was over, Midkiff would close the deal. “We would sell Sam Walton three stores at a time,” Bishop said. From Davis he learned to be a people person. From Midkiff, he began to develop the ideas of good business relationships and prompt service, and he at once recognized the importance of delivering quality to the customer. Within just a few years of taking a job with Midkiff, Bishop knew it was time to take the next step. He embarked on the next stage of his career, working for the first time in general contracting. During these years, Bishop oversaw construction of discount stores for Walmart, Gibson’s and other mainline retailers. Developers would hire the company to design and build the stores for tenants. It was hard, demanding work, with narrow margins and tight timelines. “That’s where I learned the building business,” Bishop said. 56 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

his was America in the 1970s, and the Baby Boomer generation was focused on the duality of the American Dream. A successful career is only part of the equation. Bishop balanced the other half of the equation when he met his wife, Dixie. They married and had three sons. One son became an officer with Wildlife and Fisheries. Another son settled into a job as an investment banker with UBS in Houston. The youngest son, Justin, followed his father into the construction business. Even Dixie decided to focus on her career. “When Justin went off to college, she decided she wanted to work,” Bishop said. She took up the task of managing his office. “She’s been there ever since.” The early 1980s were high cotton for construction. With a growing, successful family life and a thriving business under his belt, Bishop settled into life. At the time, he was in Baton Rouge, where he owned 50 percent of a contracting company that specialized in commercial building. He and his partner built chemical plants, shopping centers, schools and even churches. “we did just about every kind of construction,” he said. But the recession hit, and business slumped. At the same time, his mother fell ill. Even though Baton Rouge was just a short car ride from Monroe, he knew it

was time to be closer to home. Bishop relocated back to Monroe with his wife and kids in 1984. He took a position with a company that sold and erected pre-engineered steel buildings. Overseeing operations in all of Louisiana and half of Mississippi, Bishop traveled the region extensively. He got to know people and, perhaps more importantly, people got to know him. By 1996, the economy had recovered. Custom buildings were again entering a boom phase, and Bishop decided it was time to assemble all of the pieces. He opened Bing Bishop Construction, Inc. that year, with an eye to building the kinds of quality commercial and public buildings he had perfected over a lifetime of building. And, like so many others in his generation, after years of hard work, he made a little time for playing. Particularly, he played golf. It was on the golf course at Bayou Desiard Country Club that he bumped into a man who would become one of his earliest and most devoted business partners and a lifelong friend. Mike Husted knew from the start he and Bishop had a future. Bishop was a builder with a reputation for quality, and Husted was a real estate developer with big plans. More than 25 years later, Husted is thankful for the relationship they forged on the putting green. “A lot of business deals are made on the golf course,”

Husted said. “With him a builder and me a real estate developer, it was a good opportunity for us to work together.” Over the years working together, Husted came to appreciate Bishop’s eye for quality and his attention to value. Not only does Bishop build a great building, he does so with an attention to quality—from materials to design to installation—that Husted said is unmatched in the market. Bishop’s keen eye for aesthetics provides insight into his drive to deliver the best possible product to his customers. But Husted said these factors say more about Bishop the man than they do about the contractor. “As a contractor, as a builder, and as a developer, he’s got great vision,” Husted said. “All of these things speak to his integrity.” Husted became Bishop’s partner in developing several properties across the area, and one of those properties became the single most recognizable Bing Bishop project in the region. They called their venture Pargoud Place, and from the outset, they started with a common goal of improving the area and building quality housing, but they differed somewhat on how they intended to arrive at that goal. The tract of land, just under five acres, was home to a row of rental houses that, over the years, had become neglected. Bishop recalls driving by the stately northside homes along Park and Loop and then encountering the sub-

division that would become Pargoud Place, and he knew it could be more. So did Husted. Both men envisioned a nice subdivision, where people who lived could experience the pride of a community and the closeness and shared identity of a neighborhood. Though Husted wanted to build houses targeted at a more modest price point, Bishop was aiming for the stars. Bishop figures they would have made money a lot quicker, if they had done it Husted’s way, but after many discussions, Bishop’s vision won out. “It took a lot of years to do what I wanted to do, but we’re finally getting it done.” Husted points to Pargoud Place as a signature Bing Bishop vision. Rows of well-built custom homes are situated around an inviting drive that leads to a cul de sac and the development’s centerpiece, a massive stone fountain. This was the vision Bishop began with, and it’s ultimately the product of his drive to make that vision a reality. Situated on just under five acres on the corner of Loop Road and Lexington, Pargoud Place has become one of the premier developments on the northside, and Husted is struck by the beauty and design of the planned community every time he drives by it. Bishop notes he accomplished another goal, too, and it was a goal that would forever change his ideas about his role in the com-

munity. Bishop lives in the community, and he knows all of his neighbors. They gather around the fountain, on each other’s porches, and they become like a big family. “We knock on one another’s door and borrow things, just like we used to do 40 years ago,” Bishop said. Pargoud Place and the familiarity with the people next door and across the street and up the block is one of the biggest successes of the development, according to Bishop, and it’s what sets the property apart from other developments. “Most people today don’t know who lives next door to them.” The success of Pargoud Place encouraged Bishop, and he has begun to develop similar communities in a variety of price ranges, hoping to capture that sense of community again. If people have the kinds of spaces where they can come together, Bishop believes they’ll forge the same neighborly bonds as he has with his neighbors. But Pargoud Place called into question something that Bishop assesses almost as a failure. Though he had been building quality buildings for years, Bishop hadn’t given much thought to the bigger picture. While quality buildings were going up, the community itself was suffering a decline. He points to Pargoud Place as an example. Before he and Husted built a new development, the area was filled with rent houses and was, as he puts it, “rat infested, in the middle of the best part of town.” WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

s Pargoud Place took shape, he came to a realization: building community means building community. “I realized I hadn’t done a lot of that in the past,” he said. “I realized that, if we were going to make our community better, we were going to have to roll up our sleeves and get involved.” He became active in his church and in the community. Eventually, he got involved in local politics. He turned his contractor’s attention to detail and his eye for aesthetics to philosophical pursuits, and he started lobbying his friends, colleagues and the community to develop a new generation of leadership. After all, for Bishop’s vision to succeed, he would need a good foundation upon which to build. “We can’t attract industry to this area unless we have good leadership,” he said. Bishop singles out leaders in the community that he believes get the “big picture,” and he has developed his view of an effective leader: a person who is willing to spend the time and take the necessary steps to turn 58 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

bad situations into good ones. Monroe realtor and 2015 Bayou Icon Deanie Baker sums up Bishop’s vision of Monroe quite succinctly. “I think his vision is for the improvement of Monroe,” she said. His singular drive has been to create developments that have longterm and far-reaching impacts on the quality of life in the area, and Baker said that he’s succeeding in that effort. “He certainly does so in construction, whether it’s with his office buildings or his homes.” Like Husted, Baker has known Bishop for decades. She met him first through her husband, Tom, and she was immediately struck. Bishop became the kind of person she and Tom could rely on to be there. “He’s been a wonderful friend for over 20 years.” Husted agrees, though he assesses it another way. Whether the focus of the conversation is about Bishop’s political activities, his efforts at his church, building a new office complex or designing a tract of houses, or helping families displaced by the recent floods, Bishop’s work comes down to a single, defining trait. “He’s a man of tremendous

integrity,” Husted said. “If he says he’s going to do something, he gets it done.” Almost predictably, Bishop demurs at such praise, deflecting instead to the notion of work ethic, customer service and honesty he learned from men like Midkiff and Davis. He dismisses much talk of legacy and of leaving things behind, and it’s clear that these days, the reward for hard work and great vision is baked in the cake. It’s true that he’s building a better community, brick by brick, and he’s making money doing it. But, in his estimation, it’s all part of a job well done. “The harder I work to make things better for everybody, the better those things become for me,” he said. He pauses, reflecting for a moment on his life’s work, his family and the place he calls home. “I think I’m old enough now that I’m understanding now, finally, and getting the big picture of what we should be doing.” He added, with a chuckle, that such circumspection takes time and maturity. “Unfortunately, I had to get to be an old man before I realized that.”

SIMPLY LOU

Mama, Merle And Me Illustration and article by Lou Davenport

con. By definition, “a person or thing that is revered. A person who is very admired.” I wanted to write this column about my personal icon, my Mom, Carolyn Turner Williams. I only got to have her in my life a little over 20 years, but every one of those are precious. In the 41 years she has been gone, I have missed her every single day. I still cry, and yes, I want my Mama! I just cannot give a true description of my mom with words. I tried, but it all sounded too unbelievable to be true. I know I am totally biased, but, she was as close to an angel as I will ever know. She loved everybody, especially her family, her nieces and nephews and her students. I cannot do her justice. She was everything to me. I pray I am half as good a woman as she was. She did leave her mark on me though. I am an artist because of her encouragement. I love books, and I think she would get a kick out of me writing. Most of all ,she gave me a passionate love of all music, especially country music. And, Merle Haggard. I was “rasslin” with my column, when I heard the news Merle Haggard had died. I immediately went into mourning. How I loved Merle Haggard, and that love for his music came directly from my mom. She was a fan of Merle’s from the first time she ever heard him. He sang a lot of Bob Wills songs at the beginning of his career and of course, she loved “Faded Love” and “Right or Wrong.” I grew up listening to her sing those and danced with her in the kitchen. When Merle came out with “It’s Not Love, but It’s Not Bad,” she absolutely loved that one. She put her a “raunchy” little twist to it when she sang it and made me laugh until I cried! “No, it’s not love... but it’s not bad... but, it keeps me from being mad” That is when it all “fit together.” I could write about TWO Icons, especially dear to me. Bless ol’ Merle’s heart. He has been a fixture in my life as long as I can remember. His songs have carried me through so many good and bad times, all thanks to my mom. I just didn’t know at the time, Merle would almost “sing the soundtrack of my very own life.” “her one and only rebel child... she tried to steer me right... Mama tried, Mama tried...” My Mama would sing this one to me and laugh! And no, “I didn’t turn 21 in prison, doin’ life without parole,” but Merle did some time. It was for burglary, and he was in Folsom Prison. There he saw Johnny Cash, while he was an inmate! He decided to get into music after hearing Johnny sing. He learned guitar and, later, the fiddle! And, the rest, “is history.” Merle grew up hard. He was born during The Depression in Oklahoma in the middle of “The Dust Bowl.” Just like in “The Grapes 60 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

of Wrath,” the family headed to California in search of work. His father died. His mother was left to care for all of the kids. Merle was a wild one, and what he sings about in “Mama Tried” was true. That old guitar probably saved him, and it sure did give us all one amazing gift, Merle’s music. He was a remarkable songwriter because he wrote about his life. Things that really happened, things he lived, things he deeply felt. When he sang, that voice could pierce your heart and make you cry. As he aged, that voice got even better. If you have never been moved by a Merle Haggard song, something is just wrong with you. You might be missing a heart. “lookin’ for a place to fall apart... lookin’ for a place to leave my heart” When Mama died, I was 20, newly married and pregnant. I lived 8 hours away from my hometown of Bastrop in a north Mississippi town called Aberdeen. I was so lonely and homesick. I was scared. “I didn’t know nothin’ bout birthin’ babies!” We had a tiny apartment but no phone. On a Friday night, about 10 p.m. there was a knock on the door, a deputy was standing there. He had a message for me to call home, my Mama was sick. I rushed to the nearest pay phone and was told my Mama was in the hospital and was going to have surgery. We threw together some clothes and took off for Bastrop. Getting to the hospital around 3 a.m., my dad tried to prepare me. “She might not make it.” I was not having any of that! When I walked in her room and saw her, my knees gave way. I think it was a warning about how bad things were about to get. I got composed and sat with her. I held her hand. She was weak, but we did talk. She was so happy I was there, and, oh, so was I. They came to get her to go to surgery and I didn’t want to let them take her. But I had to and with God’s help, I kept it together, so she never saw how scared I was or the tears I was fighting back. “loosin’ wouldn’t be so bad at all, but I’m always on a mountain, when I fall...” We waited. I knew when that doctor walked in what he was going to say. “She didn’t make it.” I felt like some unseen force pushed me across the room into the wall. I couldn’t take it in. I couldn’t grasp it. I wanted to get the hell outta there and run. And scream. I knew I couldn’t. I had someone else I had to think about. My baby. When I realized Mama would never see my baby, my whole body sobbed. I had to get out of there. “if I could only fly... I’d bid this place goodbye..to come and be with you...” It was tough that first year after Mama died. I had my baby girl, named her Carolyn. I have told her how I believe she probably saved my life. She arrived early, but beautiful and healthy. She is now a teacher like my mother was. Continued on page 147

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GOING BACK TO CALLA Created by Lisa Lewis, this abstract arrangement consists of mini Picasso calla lilies, bear grass-threaded lime green dendrobium orchids, and cut greenery in a cool, modern offset goblet glass container.

Photo by Martin Graham Meyers Arrangement by Lisa Lewis

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LET THE SUN SHINE In response to our area’s devastating floods, loss and a recent wave of good friends feeling under the weather, Gregory Hudgins was determined to create an arrangement to visually lift our spirits. Something merry and bright – only a springtime version! Talk about resourceful, Hudgins anchors this horizontal floral design in a hollowed out gourd that he grew last summer as a vase. Manzanita branches create linear movement while bright yellow blossoms of Montego Yellow Snapdragons soften edges. The hollow gourd is filled with “Safari Goldstrike” Leucadendron.

Photo by Martin Graham Meyers Arrangement by Gregory Hudgins

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Less Really Is

by Erin Sharplin Love

et me ask you a question – What percentage of the “stuff” in your home do you actually enjoy using? Consider every piece of clothing, every shoe, every utensil, every gadget, every tchotchke and every toy. Now consider how much time, space and money that has been wasted on rarely used items. I truly believe that the more stuff you own, the more that stuff begins to own you. Therefore, living with less really does give you more-- More time, more space, more joy and possibly even more money. Who doesn’t want that? Even if you aren’t quite on board with the idea of living with less, might I suggest you pare down possessions as a test to see if you come to agree with my theory that less really is more? To get you started on the road to minimalism, I have listed a few tips below.

1. Start with something you aren’t attached to Otherwise, you might stop

before you’ve even gotten started. How about starting with kitchen gadgets? The truth is that when it comes to cooking, simple is often better. Let’s conduct an experiment – First, sit down and make your meal plan for the week. Next, walk through the kitchen 66 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

and pull out everything you will need to cook and serve each meal. Then, take a quick survey of the area, and make a mental note of what is left. When was the last time you used those items? If the answer is “over two years,” then I think it is pretty safe to get rid of them. If you are not ready to take this step, I suggest purchasing a plastic bin that can house the cookware and utensils you aren’t ready to part with. Once the bin is full, label it, and place it out of sight. If you don’t get anything out of the bin by the next time you look through it, donate the entire contents!

2. Move on to decorations and tchotchkes

When it comes to little décor pieces, I suggest that you pick each piece up and study it for a minute. How does it make you feel? Does it make you feel happy? If so, set it back down. It is loved. Does it make you feel sad? If so, box it up. It is a soul sucker. Do you feel nothing? If so, box it up. It is a dust collector.

3. Tame the toys I will admit…I am the

world’s worst about buying my children any and every toy I think they would enjoy. I just really like seeing a smile on their faces. This is MY issue, not theirs, and I shouldn’t force them to deal with extra clutter to make myself

feel better. If you are in the same boat, I suggest really paying attention to what your children currently play with the most. Set those items aside, and box the rest up. If they ask for something in the box, take it out and give it back to them. If they never miss it, donate the box to someone in need. To tell you the truth, my children enjoy playing outside rather than playing with toys, so I will start encouraging more of that type of imagination-spurring activity.

4. Clear the closet According to many studies, we wear 20% of our wardrobes 80% of the time. That means that our closets are full of clothes that we no longer like or that no longer fit us correctly. They are just taking up our precious space. To figure out what you wear, try the “hanger trick.” Simply switch your hangers so that the open part of the hook faces you instead of the back of the closet. (See picture) Then as you wear an item, replace the hanger the correct way. After thirty days, reassess what has been worn and what hasn’t. Now, what can you let go of? Your closet should be full of items you love, enjoy and utilize. Minimalism is not that you should own nothing, but that nothing owns you. Less really IS more.

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FABULOUS FABRIC HAVEN

BEEHIVE

THE MUFFIN TIN

TRADITIONS ANTIQUES

THE PATIO PLACE LINCOLN OUTDOOR LIVING

WALSWORTH & COMPANY

WOODSTOCK FURNITURE REVIVAL

TRENTON INTERIORS & COMPANY

SLEEPY HOLLOW FURNITURE

Burn, Baby, Burn Scent with love, these candles will be the light in your life. Candles are great staples for the home and make the perfect gifts for any day. Photos by Martin G Meyers MATERIAL THINGS 68 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

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BEEHIVE

LINCOLN OUTDOOR LIVING

FABULOUS FABRIC

The Perfect Pillow

Pillows are a great way to add color and transform your room for the upcoming season. These are some of our favorites from area retailers. Photos by Martin G Meyers

HAVEN THE PATIO PLACE

MATERIAL THINGS

SLEEPY HOLLOW FURNITURE THE MUFFIN TIN

WALSWORTH & COMPANY 70 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

TRENTON INTERIORS & COMPANY

WOODSTOCK FURNITURE REVIVAL

TRADITIONS ANTIQUES

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Heavy Metal 14 1. HAVEN 2. LINCOLN OUTDOOR LIVING 3. FABULOUS FABRIC 4. KEY MILLWORK 5. BEEHIVE 6. MATERIAL THINGS 7. HOUSE OF CARPETS AND LIGHTING 8. THE MUFFIN TIN 9. SLEEPY HOLLOW FURNITURE 10. WOODSTOCK FURNITURE REVIVAL 11. WALSWORTH & COMPANY 12. TRENTON INTERIORS & COMPANY 13. TRADITIONS ANTIQUES 14. THE PATIO PLACE

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Serve a Purpose 74 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

11 1. LINCOLN OUTDOOR LIVING 2. BEEHIVE 3. HAVEN 4. MATERIAL THINGS 5. WALSWORTH & COMPANY 6. WOODSTOCK FURNITURE REVIVAL 7. TRADITIONS ANTIQUES 8. THE PATIO PLACE 9. THE MUFFIN TIN 10. HOUSE OF CARPETS AND LIGHTING 11. TRENTON INTERIORS & COMPANY.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

Wine Over Water

On Thursday, March 31, hundreds gathered on ULM’s campus to celebrate the Ouachita Parish Alumni Chapter’s 11th annual Wine Over Water. The wildly successful event, held in Fant-Ewing Coliseum due to inclement weather, spotlighted craft beers and select wines provided by Marsala Beverage and Glazer’s Distributors, as well as some of the area’s best food served by over twenty local restaurants. Patrons danced the night away to the music of Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster who performed on the Land3 Architect stage. Proceeds benefit the chapter’s “Spirit of the Warhawk” scholarship fund, which pays for deserving, local students to attend ULM.

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On the BayouScene 1 Mac Oliver and Blake Herrington 2 Mark Wilson and Nona Neves 3B ecky and Tyler Flemister 4 Paulen Luttgeharm, Scott and Leazel McDonald 5 Delia Simpson and Blake Phillips 6 Cleve and Brenda Tarver 7 J essica Reynolds, Emily Goode and Claire Sheppard 8 Leslie and Cody Bauman 9 Roy Arthur and Matt Sanderson 10 A shley Franklin, Joey Trappey and Kallie Weems 11 K asey Goodman and Shane Smiley 12 V ickie Barnes and Carol-Anne Barnes 13 Chip and Lila Strode, Donna and Mike Bouy 14 Diane and Jay Russell with Dr. Nick Bruno 15 Quentin and Janie Holmes 16 Denise and Dr. Eric Pani 17 Kori Clowers and Cyndi Tatum 18 Brandi and David Cole

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Downtown Gallery Crawl On Thursday, April 7th, art enthusiasts attended the Downtown Gallery Crawl along the eight galleries participating in Monroe and West Monroe. Sugar Gallery hosted three artists this month as well as their regulars, while UPSTAIRS featured Patricia Tait Jones and Bill Ayers. Big Room Gallery featured work by curator Rick Sikes, along with Emily Caldwell, Anna Schriefer, Amy Ouchley and Jason Byron Nelson. Arender Studio’s exhibition “Half Full,” featured work by Emery Thibodeaux, Amy Freeman and Jessica Slaughter. Rounding out the shows on the Monroe side was Palace Gallery who showed a collection from Caroline Youngblood and The Garrett House exhibited artworks by Geneva Academy’s K-12th grade Students. On the west side of the river, Rumo’s Gallery presented Katie Minyard, and Ouachita River Art Gallery featured original art from over 30 artists.

On the BayouScene 3

1 Staci Albritton and Carol Smith 2 Rachael Hudnall and Gloria Traxler 3R ussell Moore, Clint Downing and Kirk Moncrief 4 Donita And Paul Smith 5 Leslie Culp and Stephanie Jordan 6 Pranathi Sharma and Emeka Odita 7 Faith, Tonya and Manny Hunter 8 Rebecca George and Dee Jones 9 Kacie Mathieu and Ryan Brown 10 Kenan and Charise Irving 11 Rachal Russell and Katie Minyard 12 K eysha and Adam McDonald 13 J essica Slaughter, Brooke Foy and Emery Thibodeaux 14 R ebekah Newsom, Lindsey Lowe, Myra Lovett and Taylor Bennett 15 D ebra Heard and Mary May 16 Daniel Luther and Zach Manning 17 Tara Holmes and Ricky Sikes 18 Leah and Mac Reitzell 19 Donna and Julia Blackett 11

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KEDM Director’s Gala On Friday, March 18 guests attended the KEDM Director’s Gala for RENT at the University of Louisiana Monroe. The Bohemian style party took place in Biedenharn Hall before the Friday performance of Jonathan Larson’s Tony- and Pulizter Prize-winning musical. The cast of RENT, with Director Robin Stephens and Musical Director Dr. Jason Reinhart, were on hand to meet and mingle with guests. The evening featured live music with a boho vibe performed by ULM students. Easy appetizers, tapas and catered dishes were served while attendees enjoyed Black Sangria, sponsored by Southern Beverage, as this year’s signature drink.

On the BayouScene

1 Kenneth Sanders and Becky Weems 2 Lila Strode and Robin Stephens 3 Danielle Glennon and William Arrington 4 Dr. Ed Rambin and Jorenda Stone 5 Lila Strode and Lyndsey Turner 6 Camile Currier and Treina Landrum 7 Chris Hyde and Tommy Usrey 8 Kara and DeSha Sims 9 Ben McQuillin, Hannah Bryan and Alex Matherne 10 R achel Bouriaque, Whitney Holloway, Brian Deslatte and Eddie Fountain 11 B eth and Ron Anders 12 Leah and Mac Reitzell 13 Dena Leggett and Sandy Henderson 14 Georgia Street and Sharon Jones 15 Barry and Gayla Stevens

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JLM Spring Market

The Junior League of Monroe hosted the 18th Annual Spring Market March 18 through March 20 at the Monroe Civic Center. The market opened on Friday morning with the classic event, “Shop ‘Til You Drop!” sponsored by The Mulhearn Corporation, and featured a champagne lunch catered by The Coffee Bean with entertainment by Rod Allen Payne. Spring Market’s signature event, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun!” was on Friday evening with catering by Thurman’s Food Factory, entertainment by Mike McKenzie, door prizes and even more fun fueled by everyone’s favorite, “market-ritas.” Spring Market serves as the major fundraiser for the Junior League of Monroe, an organization of women committing to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through action.

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On the BayouScene 1 Jessica Pollard and Emily Stratton 2 Melinda Rigsby and JJ Wyatt 3A ndrea Brown and Kristal Anzalone 4 Krista Fowlkes and Ashley West 5 Mary Sue Mitchell and Johnette Sellar 6 Sadye Richert and Mary Kathryn Barham 7 PriscillaTess Wilkins and Laura King 8 Tammi Arender and Jenny Pankey 9 Caitlyn Bamburg and Jill Keifenheim 10 M iranda Hemrick, Meg Breard and Jansen Harvey 11 L eslie Bauman, Kate Concelli, Anne Dumas and Connie Smallwood 12 C indi Gaubert, Rachel Verucchi and Rami GaubertVerucchi 13 H ollyn Breen, Kara Devinney, Melissa Kiper and Adrian Washington 14 Brandi Howard, Jo Ellen Gilliland and Amanda Finley 15 Louann Hall and Julie Morris 16 Richardra Winder and KK Lindsey 17 Jill May and Amy Keifenheim 15

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Shoot for the Moon Families and Friends of Grace Episcopal School came together on Friday, February, 26 to celebrate the school they treasure at the annual Grace Gala. The Bayou DeSiard Country Club was transformed into a glittering venue full of silent and live auction items ranging from luxurious trips to student artwork and themed baskets created by each grade level. Proceeds from the auction serve to support vital school programs. Gator fans danced the night away to the music of Fly By Radio and enjoyed the star-filled night.

On the BayouScene

1 Ashley Burkett, Jennifer Parker and Breanna Young 2 S tephanie and Jason Wilson 3 L auren and Father Michael Bordelon 4 L aurie LeBleu, Amber Shemwell, Allison Jarrell 5W endy Napoli, Sue Sartor and Allison Jarrell 6 Dana and Martin deGravelle 7 Angel Starr and Rebecca Posey 8 Beth Ricks and Cynthia Travis 9 F riends at Graceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shoot for the Moon Gala 10 M ary Napoli, Mary Kathryn Crigler, Dana deGravelle and Sarah Raymond 11 Ty and Tiffany Huffer 12 Dustin and Kerri James 13 Katy and George Moreland 14 Courtney and Zeke Wetzel 15 Rick and Ellen Plummer 16 Father Richard Norman and Adrienne McKee 17 Meg and Matt Wood

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Downtown River Jam Fans of Abita Brewing gathered Thursday, April 7th, at Downtown River Jam to try the new flagship offering from the brewery. Big Easy Session IPA is brewed with lemon peels and dry hopped with Cascade, Amarillo, Centennial and Simcoe for a hoppy aroma of citrus, fruit and pine. Released in April, the brew will be available year-round. Attendees sipped their beers while enjoying a show stopping performance by Josh Madden. His tribute to Elton John included costumes, glasses, feather boas and a dead on impression of the legendary singer, songwriter. Guests were able to enjoy all the happenings downtown within a few blocks of each other. The Downtown Gallery Crawl, Downtown River Jam and local restaurants and bars made for a truly â&#x20AC;&#x153;hoppingâ&#x20AC;? night in Monroe!

On the BayouScene 1 Taylor Barker, Kaitlin Tarver and Matt Fontana 2 Erik Stanley with Cobb and Shawn Morgan 3B lake and Lynne LeBlanc 4 Faisal and Jada Ali 5 Delia Simpson and Kara Murphy 6 Patrick and Stacey Thomas 7 Laurie Daniel and Toni Giffen 8 Trip McGehee and Sarah Head 9 Emily Smith and Dillon Lockwood 10 Pam Stokes and Sandi Woods 11 Lisa and Win Eckert 12 M ichelle Roberts, Tafta Hester and Jennifer Lollar 13 P atrick Trisler, Tracey Taylor and Richard Lee 14 C arolyn Cummins and Haley Walker 15 J eff and Evelyn Johnson 16 Kevin Caston, Melody Olson and Anthony Perkins 17 Sarah Hart and Mandy Barker

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OCA Annual Shindig

The Ouachita Council on Aging’s Annual Shindig was held on March 18th at MBH Farm in Calhoun. Cowboy boots were seen cruising around the barn floor while Lisa Spann and Company provided music. This year’s event honored the memory of Shirley Hoffman Cagle. A live/silent auction was held to raise funds for the organization and their many programs. The enormous crowd enjoyed food provided by Catfish Charlie’s and visiting with the horses in their stables.

On the BayouScene 1 Chip Norman and Junot Dixon 2 Susan and Rudi Miksa 3 L inda Alford and Margot Albright 4 Dr. Douglas Brown, Carol and Bubba Rhymes 5 Linda McGhee, Dr. Herschel and Mary Beth Harter 6 Susan Hoffman and Jen Avis 7 Kristen Lambrecht and Kandace Stroo 8 Sharon Dollins and Alisha Forbito 9 Marcia Gates, Daphne Culpepper and Beverly Clement 10 Dawne Smith, Angel Arnold and Megan Terrell 11 Jack Anderson, Elizabeth and Joe Kvaternik 12 Sissy and Gary Jones 13 M ike Tyson and Janet Colvin 14 Leslie Culp and Diana Asbury 15 K atharine Wall, Debbie Sawyer, Donna Nolan and Jerry Wall 16 Vickie and Bill Krutzer with Dick Culpepper 17 Billy Justice and Cindy Rogers

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THE BROWN HOUSE B

Kristin and Harris Brown commission extensive renovations with respect for the past, yet firmly rooted in the present.

ack in 2009, Kristin and Harris Brown were boating in and out of their Ouachita River fronted home. Although their home stayed high and dry, the commute by boat to terra firma became tiresome as floodwaters took quite a long time to recede. The need to be closer to family and the opportunity to restore a beautiful piece of property on Phillips Bayou proved irresistible to the community-minded pair whose interests lie firmly in politics, the environment, history and the arts. In 2011, “The Brown House.” with its stately columns and near perfect siting along the banks of a pristine waterway that used to connect to the Ouachita River, came back onto the market and needed another set of creative “Browns” to love it just as the ones before had.

Article by Maré Brennan Photography by Martin G Meyers Styling by Kristin Brown

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HISTORY IN THE MAKING.

Built in 1950, this classic Greek Revival home has always been known to Monroians as “The Brown House.” In its 66-year history, except for one brief time, it has only been owned by families with the last name of Brown, none of them related. The original builder of the home was Mr. Slade Brown, of the “paper mill” Browns. Slade Brown purchased one of the first lots to be sold after the Country Club relocated and the nine-hole golf course was developed as a residential neighborhood. Slade Brown loved music and the theater – he actually won a Tony Award in 1961 for producing “Bye Bye Birdie.” At one point, he bricked up the back windows in the living room to install a rather large pipe organ where the fireplace sits. It was later donated to St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. The second owner was the Edmund Brown family of the newspaper business. Bitza and Edmund Brown purchased the home in the 1959, where they raised their large and lively family and lived for many years until 2008.

A NEW TRADITION.

Kristin and Harris Brown purchased the home in 2011 and thus began a loving restoration of this classic Southern place. Through the decades, several additions had complicated the back of the house, windows were bricked-over and the upstairs hallway had been carved up into small rooms. For the restoration, the couple enlisted the in-demand contracting services of Robbie Smith. Says Kristin, “This was the second project that Robbie has done for us, and he completed this entire project from start to finish in less than ten months. Robbie is very focused when he works on your renovation, and he’s very realistic. We became close friends with his foreman, Ron, and the whole crew.” Explains the homeowner, “This renovation was like an archaeological dig.” The home was completely gutted down to the studs, additions removed and windows opened up, bringing the home back to its original floor plan. Renovations included all new HVAC, plumbing and electrical throughout the house. Efficient tankless water heaters replaced behemoth tanks and freed up floorspace. During the restoration, one of the most dramatic changes occurred when the kitchen was returned to its initial position, then doubled in size. Kristin added a bank of windows to take in the sweeping view of Phillips Bayou.Together with Sandy Sartor of Key Millwork, Kristin designed the kitchen cabinetry which is painted a deep, warm grey tone. Wall mounted cabinets on either side of the range hood feature glass-paned doors. On either side of the Kitchen Aid stainless refrigerator cabinetry is designed to hide small appliances and store the couple’s collection of cookbooks. A painting of a levitating onion by the late Glenn Kennedy highlights the hood above the Viking stainless range and was a Christmas gift from Harris to Kristin when they first married. Counters are topped with Calacata Velluto marble with a graceful, bullnosed ogee edge. The marble for the kitchen and the marble tiles in the downstairs bathrooms were sourced through Walker Zanger in Dallas. In keeping with the era in which the home was built, Kristin chose an oversized Ann Sacks subway tile for the backsplash. The painting of an egg carton is by a Park City, Utah artist. Just beyond the kitchen, through a set of French doors lies the home’s outdoor living area. “We took the whole back of the house off. Our intent was to bring it back to its original footprint. Outside, we were able to create a huge living space,” says Kristin. “We truly use this space, and eat dinner outside every night when the weather permits.” Teak seating and tables create conversational groupings for gathering and are brightened by colorful accent pillows and the couple’s collection of succulents. A freestanding hammock adds hours of enjoyment for dreamy afternoons spent reading and soaking in the ambience of the bayou. Kristin and Harris took great care to leave intact as much of the original features as possible, such as the staircase and its wrought iron railing. Says Kristin, “The intricate carving on the treads of the stairs along the wall is a detail that dates to the home’s origins. Kelly Iron Works was able to seamlessly piece together an additional section of railing upstairs for us as well.” The home’s red oak floors took on new life after a complete sanding and ingenious use of diluted white wash to achieve a pickled effect. The beautiful bay window which commandeers an entire wall of the dining room and the bi-fold doors and their unique brass hardware which open into both the dining room and the living room from the main entry hall were renovated as well. The front door with its massive brass hardware and beveled glass surround were restored to pristine condition. Downstairs an egg and dart step to the original crown molding was removed and a custom molding was created by Robbie Smith’s craftsman, Cecil, to Kristin’s specifications.

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ristin, an award-winning graphic designer known for her impeccable sense of style and ingenious use of color, decorated the home herself with the help of a few, close talented friends. The paint colors throughout the house are soft grays and warm neutrals, with names like Mouse’s Back and Down Pipe from the Farrow & Ball line. Light fixtures throughout the home are new to the home yet are in keeping with the age of the home. Kristin sourced many pendants and sconces from Circa Lighting and found the entry hall’s antique gilded wheat and chaff chandelier at The Mews in Dallas and the gilded wheat sconces in the hall half bath were discovered online at One Kings Lane. The home’s distinctive entry hall features a large canvas by Wendy Dulaney, which was purchased through Tish Miller’s Inside Indigo at an art show one Christmas. A collection of blue hued blown glass bottles top a hall console of iron and reclaimed wood. Stair treads are painted an inky black giving the staircase a graphic punch. The doorway that leads to the newly expanded kitchen was widened during the renovation. The Brown’s artwork collection has been acquired by the couple over time and is comprised mostly Louisiana artists. Harris’s grandmother, Mrs. Abe Harris of Ruston, painted the large iris in the living room in the 1970s as well as the butterfly painting which hangs above the breakfast table in the kitchen. The design aesthetic which Kristin employs throughout the home is traditional with a clean, modern twist. The furnishings throughout are comfortable and casual, since they are often lounging spots for their three dogs

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and cats. In the living room a pair of linen upholstered sofas provide a comfortable seating area for guests to gather. Two large windows overlooking the bayou and a fireplace focal point are now where Mr. Slade Brown had installed his pipe organ. One of Brad Arender’s photographs from his Hurricane Katrina series is positioned above the mantle. The right wing was converted into a single master suite with a bedroom, master bath and his and hers closets with dressing area. In the hallway to the bedroom, a Blue Dog painting by George Rodrigue, a gift from Harris’ mother, is a reminder of Harris’ beloved blue heeler and companion, Hambone. Harris had the solid cypress, quarter-tester bed handmadeby acclaimed furniture maker George Oliver of Natchitoches, LA prior to their marriage. Linens are by Bella Notte, and drapery fabric throughout the home was sourced through Fabulous Fabric. Spacious and calming, the master bedroom is a calming retreat for the couple. Windows from the bedroom take in views of the bayou, as well as a walled shade garden with 50 year old camellia trees, as well as hydrangea, fatsia, elephant ears and ferns. Throughout the home, Kristin tried to keep all the finishes and fixtures in the house true to its time period, using such materials as marble, subway tile and classic styles. Nowhere is this more evident than in the master bathroom. Floors dressed in elongated hexagon tiles of calacata marble anchor the master bath with his and hers vanities, a marble tiled walk-in shower with glass door and an elegant free-standing tub. An extra downstairs bedroom was converted into His and Hers closets as well as a dressing area for the couple.

THE BRIGHT WALLPAPERS ARE A MODERN TWIST ON RETRO 60’s DESIGN.

he left wing of the house is the workhorse and features a spacious mudroom and laundry. Kristin sewed voluminous curtains of striped cotton ticking, which camouflage the washer and dryer. The vintage-style farmhouse sink with limestone counter is the perfect place for potting plants and flower arranging, two of Kristin’s passions. Just beyond the mudroom, the butler’s pantry provides a transition from the kitchen to the dining room. In the light-filled dining room, a large oval table is surrounded by upholstered chairs in neutral linen with nailhead detail. The marble topped sideboard had been a fixture in Harris’ dad’s office for many years. The collection of French botanicals was a find from Traditions Antiques in West Monroe. The large landscape painting is by Susan Johnston, and a Michalopoulos colorful and visually skewed painting of a New Orleans Victorian adds a whimsical touch to the room. Upstairs is a contrast in styles, textures and colors. Kristin likes to think of one side as being feminine, playful and fun, while the other is dark and serious – a “His and Hers,” so to speak. Her side includes a guest bedroom and bath for her nieces and craft room where Kristin sews, works on art projects and creates her award-winning floral and botanical art exhibits. As an exhibitor and Floral Design Judge for The Garden Club of America, Kristin makes good use of this room. The craft room overlooks the bayou and is flooded with natural light that streams in from the north and the east. The bright wallpapers are a modern twist on retro 60’s designs by Amy Butler. “I do love some wallpaper,” says Kristin of the bold, graphic prints she chose for the bed and bath rooms. The four post bed had belonged to Kristin’s grandfather. An Emily Sartor mixed media collage hangs near an antique vanity and mirror. In the bathroom, Kristin sewed the curtain adding colorful embellishment that picks up colors in the wallpaper. The Browns were able to retain the original fixtures, sink and tub but updated the flooring with cute hexagon porcelain tile flooring and subway tile on the wall by DalTile. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

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His side upstairs is more masculine, subdued and includes a library with fireplace, guest room and bath. The library is the logical place to house Harris’s bevy of books, but also a quiet place to display their collection of black and white photography. Of note are the three Shackelton Expedition photographs by photographer and visual documentarian Frank Hurley, who was part of the crew that set out to explore Antarctica in 1914. The photographs were a wedding gift from Harris’s brother. In the “His” side upstairs bathroom, adorable lighting by Schoolhouse Electric offers a modern take on vintage lighting with hand-painted glass shades that are keeping with the time period of the home. A glass corner shower with subway tile lined walls and flooring of hexagon tile blend perfectly with the original porcelain sink. “My first apartment was completely done in 20th century modern furnishings,” explains Kristin, “but I feel it’s important to be respectful and appropriate to the architectural time period of the house.” In the guest bedroom which overlooks the front lawn filled with ancient live oaks, Kristin has created a wall collage of black and white family photographs above the linen upholstered headboard. Atop an antique dresser, a silver gelatin print of a Grecian statue is by family friend Doug Kennedy, while a skull mount of large deer with gold glittered antlers on the opposite side of the room was created by Doug’s twin, John. Being close friends since college, John often acted as Kristin’s sounding board during the renovation. Kristin and Harris have a definite philosophy about the homes they have had and feel one needs to be true to their architectural style and sensibility. Says Harris, “We are proud to be able to restore this home and bring it back to its grandeur.” To which Kristin smiles and adds, “We are simply stewards of this place while we are here, and it has been a true love affair and privilege to be part of this home’s history and journey. My hope is that we have honored it and the families that came before us, by restoring it and caring for it.” WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

First National Bank FNB Introduces Douglas Dupont

IRST NATIONAL BANK IS PROUD TO INTRODUCE Douglas Dupont who runs our newest branch location in Monroe. Douglas serves as the Commercial Lender for the Monroe Branch and brings with him a wide range of banking experience. Over the last 10 years, Douglas has worked as a bank examiner, credit analyst and commercial lender. He has also attained his real estate license and is currently completing his designation as a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM). Douglas was born and raised in Baton Rouge, LA where he attended Catholic High before moving to Oxford, MS and graduating with a Business Degree from the University of Mississippi. Douglas and his wife, Erika, moved to Monroe in November of 2014 and have really embraced the warm welcome the kind people of Monroe have provided. They have recently welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world Charlotte Frances, who is now two months old. Douglas and Erika are excited to raise her in what they consider to be a wonderful family environment. Outside of work, Douglas can usually be found on a golf course or spending time with his family around town. He is very

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excited about being a part of the FNB family and believes the bank has a bright future as it further establishes itself in the Monroe market. Come visit Douglas and the rest of the team at First National Bank, the Uncommon Bank, on the corner of 18th and Hudson in Monroe. First National Bank offers personal service every step of the way. We didn’t expand into Northern Louisiana, we grew up here. For more than 100 years, our mission has been to help our neighbors grow with us. Come see us with your lending needs. You’ll benefit from local decision-making and servicing that starts and ends right here. We’ll work to find a solution for your budget, and guide you every step of the way. We offer competitive rates, direct personal service and assistance with paper work. At First National Bank, we are committed to making every interaction with our customers an experience that is noticeably different and more exceptional than any they have ever encountered.

Fabulous Fabric Is Your Fabric Headquarters Gorgeous Designer Selection for All Your Fabric Needs

URING THE FLOODING THE parish recently had to endure, we saw many acts of courage and kindness. People came together to help those who needed relief. Now people are rebuilding and redoing, and we are seeing those same acts of kindness again. Let us help you, too! We can help you reupholster damaged furniture and find the perfect draperies for your windows. Now is the perfect time to come in, because we have received over 50 new bolts of fabric in all different colors and textures. There is bound to be something that will suit your taste! We also recently have started carrying a new line of zip rods. We have examples in stock, and we can order them for you.

Currently our new favorite is a square rod that comes in either 1” or 2”. It comes in metal with 20 different color options to choose from. A square rod can add a modern touch to your home while still being very elegant. It also comes in the traditional round rod, which looks great paired with any home decor. It comes fluted, round or carved with over 20 different color options to pick. Do you have a smaller project that needs fabric? We offer high-end remnants at only $10 per yard! We get new shipments of remnants in weekly, and they always stay at this great price. There is always a great selection of these to choose from. Summer is also on its way. Do you need to add a pop of color to your patio or pool area? We are the only in-stock

dealer of Sunbrella in Northeast Louisiana. Sunbrella offers fabrics as stunning as the great outdoors, with the strength to withstand the elements and all of life’s moments (even the ones that require cleaning with bleach.) Come in to see our selection and if there isn’t anything you like, you can order! Sunbrella is the perfect fabric for our hot and humid summers. Come see us Monday-Saturday 105. We’re located at 1803 Lamy Lane in Monroe. Follow us on facebook to see what we have coming in every day! We can’t wait to see you there!

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Haven Interiors, Fine Paper and Gifts Treat Yourself and Your Home with a Visit to Haven

GREAT DESIGN SHOP THAT offers luxurious bedding, elegant accessories to complete your home, and a wonderful selection of distinctive gifts. A shopping destination you won’t want to miss! With the largest selection of bedding and bath vendors in Northeast Louisiana, Haven carries Italian linens, silk, and Egyptian cotton sheeting along with chic coverlets that make for a well-appointed bed. Likewise, bamboo sheets and comforters promote a cool environment for a restful night’s sleep. You can special order luxury bath mats, Peacock Alley towels with optional monogram, and custom shower curtains to make any bathroom beautiful. Haven maintains a vast selection of design resources and is the exclusive dealer in Monroe for the popular Sherrill Furniture, known for providing highquality upholstered pieces. With over 1600

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fabric choices and a large number of styles and frames, you are sure to find a piece that matches your style. Other lines carry distinguished recliners as well as slip-covered sofas and chairs for easy care with pets and children. Additionally, occasional tables in a variety of sizes and finishes and custom upholstered headboards are available to order. Nothing brings a room together like beautiful artwork. Their assortment of original abstract and Louisiana-inspired pieces from artists in the tri-state area, including some exclusively sold at Haven, will not disappoint. Haven is owned by licensed interior designer, Sandy McMillan Gimber, and is a valuable design resource for our area. If you are lacking inspiration to transform your space or starting a new construction or remodeling project, you can schedule a consultation with a designer on staff.

The owner’s interior design background reflects the variety of resources offered at Haven, and creates a distinctive shop with an ever-changing gift selection. Designer wallpaper books and exclusive lines of fabrics and trims that grace the pages of Veranda can be easily accessed at their shop. Peruse rug samples from French Market and other upscale rug lines to add that finishing touch. Something special can always be found at Haven. Shoppers know that Haven provides wonderful customer service and merchandise for all ages. The store offers beautiful, complimentary gift wrapping to complete your shopping experience. Treat yourself and your home with a visit to Haven, located at 1127 Forsythe Avenue in Monroe. Shop hours are 10-5 Monday-Friday and 10-3 on Saturdays.

Glenwood Mammography Glenwood Makes Scheduling Mammograms Easy

CHEDULING REGULAR mammograms is one of your best defenses against breast cancer. Now there are 3 ways to make scheduling a mammogram easier, faster and more convenient. 1. S chedule online at GlenwoodMammo. com  2. S chedule by phone by calling (318) 329-8585  3. S chedule at your doctor’s office following an appointment

cancer at early stages. Mammograms can detect changes in breast tissue as much as two years before they can be seen or felt.

Early Detection Is Your Best Protection As the second leading cause of cancer death in women, breast cancer will affect an average of one in eight women during their lifetime. Studies show that, when detected early, the chance for successful breast cancer treatment is nearly 100%. Mammography greatly enhances the ability to detect breast

Who Should Have Mammograms? The American Cancer Society recommends that all women have a baseline screening mammogram between the ages of 35 and 40. Beginning at age 40, women should have an annual mammogram. In addition to annual screening for women 40 and older, women with risk factors should

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer • Family or personal history of breast cancer • Early menstrual onset/late onset menopause • Use of oral contraceptives  • Use of hormone replacement therapy  • Alcohol use (2 or more drinks/day)

discuss an appropriate mammogram schedule with their physician. The Glenwood Breast Health Center offers women and their physicians a full range of breast care, testing and diagnostic services at two convenient locations. Glenwood Medical Mall; 102 Thomas Rd., Suite 300, West Monroe, LA 71291 Glenwood Imaging at North Monroe; 3995 Sterlington Rd., Suite B, Monroe, LA 71203 To learn more about women’s breast health services and InQuicker® appointment scheduling, call 877-726-WELL or visit GRMC.com.

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House of Carpets and Lighting Well Worth the Drive!

ELLO! ALL OF US AT HOUSE OF Carpets and Lighting in Shreveport are excited to showcase our products to Northeast and North Central Louisiana, and we hope you will make the short drive to see us. We promise you will not be disappointed! Remodeling your home? Building a new home? Looking to update a couple of areas in your home? House of Carpets and Lighting has what it takes to make your home look its best. We carry quality flooring, from beautiful hardwood to durable ceramic and porcelain tile, to plush carpet and so much more! We also have a huge selection of backsplashes and tumbled stone. House of Carpets and Lighting is the only Shaw Design Center in the area, and we have other top name brands as well. When it comes to lighting, House of

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Carpets and Lighting combines quality and selection. We offer a wide range of lighting products that provide the perfect blend of beauty and utility. From beautiful crystal chandeliers to decorative kitchen and bedroom lighting, to under-counter and LED lighting, you will find the perfect lights for your taste, style and budget! Whether you are looking to update your entire house, or just one room, we’ve got you covered! Let us make your home the gem of your street with the perfect exterior lighting solution to highlight the beauty of your home. From subtle lighting accents to landscape lighting and gas lanterns, House of Carpets and Lighting can help you enhance your home’s exterior to match the level of style and beauty of the interior. Accessories are the “cherry on top,” and you will find plenty of treasures at House of Carpets and Lighting. Artwork, lamps, home

accessories, mirrors, accent furniture and vanities – everything to update your beautiful home – you’ll find it here. However, what sets apart House of Carpets and Lighting is our customer service. Family-owned and operated, House of Carpets and Lighting’s staff is knowledgeable about all of our products. In addition, our design team can guide you when it comes to selecting the best look for your home. We look forward to serving you! We can’t wait for you to visit our showroom at 4344 Youree Drive. Take the Market Street exit off I-20. Market St. becomes Youree Drive, so you will be here in no time! Open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. House of Carpets and Lighting— Well Worth the Drive!

Sippin’ and Grillin’ in the South

Creating Wonderful Memories with Friends and Family

IGHT NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME OF YEAR TO ENJOY the outdoors. The transition from spring to summer brings the right mixture of warm weather and evening breezes. As Louisiana natives, we know it’s the last chance to enjoy the outdoors before the intense heat of summer. One of the best ways to enjoy the weather is to gather around the grill with family and friends. There’s something special about cooking great food and drinking that creates an environment where laughs are shared and wonderful memories are formed. At Vieux Carré Market, we want to contribute to those memories by providing you with all the great food and drinks you’ll need to turn your grill party from great to legendary! A proper grill party begins with the food, and we have everything you need, including steaks, specialty meats and fresh seafood. We offer Wagyu, 1855 Black Angus, heritage pork, fresh made ground beef and much more. The steaks are beautifully marbled and ready for the grill. We even create special meat selections in house, such as cold smoked, coriander and peppercorn crusted ribeye. Our helpful staff will guide you through the various selections and cut it to your specifications. At Vieux Carré Market, we understand that a great beverage is just as important as the food. If you truly want your grill party to be

legendary, let us help you choose from our massive selection of thirstquenching options. Our wine collection will fit any palate at any price and we have a huge assortment of craft beers. We stock incredible whiskeys, vodkas, rums, cognacs, and unique mixers to help you create tasty cocktails. We also offer unique bitters and other liqueurs, such as the mouthwatering Italian Amari. The options for cocktails are endless. Here’s one simple and unique drink recipe for you to try! Dolce Espresso Cold Coffee 1oz. of cream 2oz. of Dolce Nero Espresso liqueur 2oz. of vodka or whiskey We would love to help make your next outdoor gathering special. Call or stop by Vieux Carré Market today! Lunch Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Dinner Hours: Thursday – Saturday 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

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THE (NOT–SO) TINY HOUSE How a designer and builder teamed up to revolutionize the concept of the new home

article by Michael DeVault, photos by Graham Meyers

ffordable, site-built homes are hardly a new idea in construction, but as material costs skyrocketed over the years and consumer demands climbed with them, the deck became stacked against the idea of a new home with a plethora of amenities selling for such a low price. The only thing is, designer Larry James and builder Hud Braud are beating the odds. By June, they expect to sign the first contract on a newly constructed home on a lot in Sterlington. And it will sell for less than $150,000. “There’s no place in the entire parish where you can get a brand new home for less than $150,000,” James said. “That’s the price point--less than $150,000.” The secret to their plan? Build an entirely new development on inexpensive land in a growth community. For this project, the team secured a series of lots in the heart of the original village of Sterlington. They razed several buildings, taking the property 106 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

down to the dirt, and then they began building. As the houses went up, people in the area started calling them “Tiny Homes,” but that’s a label James dismisses. “As far as I know, the only person around here that built any tiny houses was a fellah named Richard Newcomer,” James said, and he added he’s not sure if Newcomer sold any of those tiny homes. Tiny homes are singlefamily dwellings that range from 175 to 500 sq. feet. While James said he sees the attraction, building and selling such homes in this area would mean problems at the bank. “With financing nowadays, we think that tiny houses around here would be difficult to finance,” James said. But the concept of a smaller, affordable, livable home still stuck with him, and his partner did have a tiny house that he rented out. They put their heads together and, in spite of the challenges of designing a small home for a big market, they succeeded. Clocking in at just over 1,150 sq. feet, these new homes are designed around an open floor plan. A spacious kitchen and dining area flows into the living area. Two comfortable bedrooms allow for a single person to live comfortably and host their parents from

out of town. The homes are ideal for young couples or soon-to-be retirees, the empty nesters who’re either about to start a family or those who have sent their family out into the world. The houses are even a good match for a young family with a small child. Best of all, they’re affordable and in a growth area, which should make the houses a great investment for the long haul. That’s good news for buyers seeking to purchase a new home. Braud points to the dance new homebuyers do, the careful balancing act between amenities and price. Especially challenging is new construction, where the homeowner expects to have a certain level of customization. But those features cost money, and often times the tradeoffs are significant. That’s not so with the houses Braud and James are building. “People are usually willing to give up the frills and the kinds of things people would expect in a custom home,” Braud said. “We’ve tried to be economical but, at the same time, we’ve done a lot of research. We’ve found the kinds of elements that allow us to keep an eye on the bottom line while still producing that same, custom effect.” Consider the fixtures in the bathroom. Custom homes frequently include “wow” features, those elements that cause

an individual to pause as they’re washing their hands at a welldesigned sink and artisan faucet. In most spec houses, fixtures are one of the areas where the builder can save costs by utilizing off-the-shelf faucets and toilets. Not so in the homes they’re building in Sterlington. Braud demonstrates the workings of one of the faucets, which incorporates a bit of technology. LED lights activate when the faucet is turned on, illuminating both the sink and the stream of water. What’s more, there’s a bit of a show. “If the water is cold, it turns blue. If it’s hot, it turns red,” Braud said. The bathrooms are just one element of the home that will surprise potential buyers. These kinds of elements are scattered throughout the homes. “They look very appealing, but they’ve also got some wow factor in there with them.” Braud talks a lot about that unique factor, the finish on a cabinet or the way indirect lighting plays with a well-placed piece of molding. It’s clear that Braud and James have spent a considerable amount of time on this project, laboring thoughtfully over every choice, every ingredient they add. Keeping the costs down for the buyer doesn’t stop at the materials and fixtures, either. The pair are acutely aware that, eventually, people have to live here, too.

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In light of that, they’ve undertaken a series of improvements to the designs that will improve overall efficiency. Insulated windows and a well-insulated attic will save money on the electric bill. So, too, will the ample lighting throughout the home. Again, Braud points to technology. “We’ve incorporated LED lights, but standard can lights and indirect lighting,” he said. “This helps make the homes more energy efficient.” Upkeep is easy, too. The homes sport glazed porcelain tile floors throughout, with some home designs featuring a quality carpet in the bedrooms. Outside, each of the homes are built on a zero-lotline plan, meaning one wall of the home touches the property line. This allows for a wide, spacious lawn on the opposite side of the home, and sequestered from prying eyes on the street, a private porch and courtyard open off the living room, with the kind of lawn the kids can play on. While it’s true the development is going up all at once, James’s designs for the homes flow along three divergent architectural styles, or models, as he terms them. There is a country French design, a farm house, and a modern home. And, in the case of each home, the exterior design drives the interior aesthetic. “You’d be hard pressed to find another spec home development with as much attention to detail as far as design 108 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

and finish,” Braud said. “There are elements of half-million dollar homes, and we’re incorporating a lot of finishes that just aren’t available locally.” In the modern home, for example, the cabinetry in the kitchen features top-of-the-line cabinetry from IKEA. Sleek, elegant and cool, these cabinets incorporate a gull-wing door that opens up and out of the way, so you won’t be banging your head on the cabinet when you’re putting the dishes away anymore. In fact, all of the cabinetry and hardware in the homes comes from IKEA, which Braud touts as a great benefit for the homeowner. Soft-close drawers and doors mean no more slamming cabinets and rattled silverware. Inside and out, the quality is there. “It’s better than any quality you find even in high-end, custom cabinetry locally,” Braud said. “The finish on the outside is going to be hard to beat.” The French country house is finished with 12’ ceilings in the living room -- all of the homes feature high ceilings, which lend an open air feeling to the homes. In the kitchen, you’ll be set for entertaining with a comfortable bar. The master bath finds a fullsized shower where the bathtub might have gone, and along the side, a covered porch. Not willing to dismiss authenticity for the bottom line, the farm house design features a metal roof on the front of the home and

over the covered porch. Inside, the same tall ceilings and open floor plan finds a new element. “The farm house even has a loft with a combination storage-stair that will go up to the loft,” James said. On that storage front, from nooks and crannies to full-sized closets, each of the homes incorporates ample closet and storage spaces. You won’t be left searching for a place to stash that extralarge winter coat or the bulk-buy paper towels from Sam’s. In fact, due to the efficiency of design and the thoughtfulness of location, James and Braud are delivering a home in which the dwellers won’t have to think about much at all. Convenient to shopping, to 165 and CenturyLink, and just a few minutes’ drive from Pecanland Mall, the development marks the next level of evolution for Sterlington, which for the last ten years has been one of the fastest growing areas of the parish. In light of the explosive growth--and in anticipation of even more to come--the town of Sterlington has been on a spending spree, upgrading infrastructure elements from road surfaces to street lighting. Sidewalks lead throughout most of the communities, and eventual plans call for all streets to incorporate sidewalks. Retail growth along the 165 corridor has driven a boom in economic development, and there’s even a grocery store--a longtime goal for the town’s government. Later this year, Sterlington will put the

finishing touches on a multi-million dollar sewer treatment facility that town leaders expect will allow for decades of growth. And unlike other outlying areas who rely on private water companies, Sterlington purchases its water from the City of Monroe--a toprated water supply in Louisiana. There’s more than just the water going for the new neighborhood, too. Zoned for Sterlington Elementary, Middle, and High School, the duo expect interest to be high from parents, too. For the single individual, safety is a chief concern. The development is located near the Sterlington Police Department, and each of the homes feature a single-car enclosed garage. “The single person can arrive home, close the garage and feel secure in their home,” James said. In this day and age, that’s an important selling point. Though James notes the garage is for a single car only, he notes that parking pads have been incorporated into the design as well, meaning residents have a convenient spot for a second car. Though construction is ongoing, James and Braud can see the finish line. They’re pushing for a June launch for the community, and when it’s finished, James thinks people will be pleasantly surprised. In fact, he’s pretty sure they won’t know what to think. “They’re going to be impressed when they turn in and see these WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

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houses, all of them white, and see what we’ve done,” James said. Though the finish elements and styles of each of the homes varies by type–modern, French, farmhouse--each of the homes will be painted white. Even the French design, which incorporates brick elements on the exterior, will be white. The goal is to fuse the development into a sense of community, with a shared aesthetic and shared goals. “This will be a stunning visual, the modern, the farm house and the French style, all together in white,” James said. Though the grass still isn’t down and the homes are still under construction, both James and Braud have experienced heavy interest. Right now, though, they’re trying to dodge the calls from prospective buyers. “We’re sort of putting people off until they’re finished,” James said. “But there’s been a lot of interest.” Enough interest, in fact, that they’re already planning Phase Two. “We have three more lots to do three more houses after these,” James said. He was mum about what new features he had in store for those houses. Right now, it’s all about what’s going up.

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Frozen Fat, Thinner You

CoolSculpt Produces Impressive Results

BY TIMOTHY J. MICKEL, MD, FACS, BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON

OW MANY TIMES HAVE YOU GRABBED THAT ROLL OF fat on your lower abdomen or the back of your hip and said, “too bad somebody can’t just melt this off.” Well, you could try to get rid of your rolls the old-fashioned way: exercise more and eat less. But, for most of us, that doesn’t work too well. Good news—there’s an easier and more effective way. About five years ago the FDA cleared a new technique called CoolSculpt, clinically proven to reduce bulges of unwanted fat, without needles, without incisions and—most importantly—without downtime. Too good to be true, you say? I thought so too—until I tried it myself. I went back to work immediately after the procedure, went to an event that evening, and swam half a mile the next day! Best of all, after three treatments my love handles are noticeably smaller. Mickel Plastic Surgery introduced CoolSculpt to this area in 2010, and the results have been impressive. CoolSculpt uses an ingenious concept, called cryolipolysis, developed by researchers at Harvard Medical School. The device delivers precise, even cooling to the fat layer causing fat cells to rupture and slowly release their contents. The fatty material is picked up by the lymphatic system and removed. Studies of hundreds of patients who have undergone CoolSculpting treatments have shown no ill effects from this fat cell rupture. Improvement is gradual and progressive, peaking at two to three months. Patients in the initial studies experienced a 20% reduction in the thickness of the fat with the first treatment as measured by ultrasound and a little less with each subsequent treatment. Only one area can be treated at a time, and the procedure takes about an hour per area. No sedation is needed, so you can drive yourself to and from the office. No compression garments are necessary after the treatments, and you can literally return to your normal activities, including exercise, immediately. Our experience over the past five years indicates that while some improvement is noticeable after one treatment, most patients require three sessions for an optimal result. Because we want every patient to have a noticeable result, we no longer offer single sessions. Treatments are sold as a package of three sessions at a significantly discounted rate. Of course, the procedure is not for everyone. The ideal patient is close to their ideal weight and has relatively small, localized areas of fat without a lot of saggy skin. If you are morbidly obese, you may need bariatric surgery. If you are moderately obese, you still need a disciplined program of diet and exercise and may require liposuction and excisional body contouring for an optimal result. But if you are reasonably fit, close to your ideal weight, yet in spite of Body Pump, Spin Classes, half marathons and New Year’s resolutions still have areas of unwanted fat, then CoolSculpting may be right for you. Call Mickel Plastic Surgery at 388-2050 today to set up a free consultation.

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Taking Northeast Louisiana by Storm New Affordable Pricing, Great Quality and Service at Bob Moss Carpet One

INCE 1946,YOU’VE COME TO BOB MOSS CARPET ONE for all your flooring, bath and countertop needs. And today you can still go to Bob Moss Carpet One and find that same great service. Now under new ownership, Bob Moss Carpet One has hardwood, natural stone, ceramic tile and much more! Lew Hubbard became owner on January 1, 2013 and is taking the flooring world by storm. “I’m fortunate to have a great crew that is fantastic to work with! Forrest “Tree” Erwin is our General Manager and has over 28 years flooring and tile expertise himself!” Your experience with Bob Moss Carpet One starts with one of our knowledgeable Interior Decorators, Nancy Shutt and Nikki Creighton. They can help turn your living areas into a showplace, and at no extra cost! Tree and Lew will work with you on your commercial and residential needs, including churches and businesses. Measuring and bringing samples to you is no problem at all! We want to help you in any way we can! In addition, we offer the Beautiful Guarantee on specific merchandise. If after we install your flooring, and you don’t like the color or style, we will replace it, at no cost. That’s right. No cost! This takes the guess work out of your buying decision! Our crew of friendly, courteous and competent installers will make sure the job is done right, even moving furniture. We also offer installations with Carpet One’s excusive Healthier Living treatment to protect against mold and mildew. With over 82 years combined experience in the flooring industry, you are sure to get a quality product and service that far surpasses your expectations. Bob Moss Carpet One is also your place to go for custom area rugs. We can order any rug you can dream of or have any carpet bound into any pattern you like. We are also Monroe’s Karastan rug source. And Bob Moss also has tremendous buying power through the national co-op, Carpet One. We also can offer 12 months no interest financing! So stop by Bob Moss Carpet One and visit with Lew and his courteous staff at 610 Louisville Avenue, next to the Mohawk, in Monroe. Or call 318-387-6929 or 1-800-256-0746. Bob Moss Carpet One—Beautiful Made Affordable!

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How Much Sleep Is Enough? The Importance of Quality Sleep

HE AMOUNT OF SLEEP YOU NEED EACH DAY WILL change over the course of your life. Although sleep needs vary from person to person, the chart below shows general recommendations for different age groups. Age Recommended Amount of Sleep Newborns 16–18 hours a day Preschool-aged children 11–12 hours a day School-aged children At least 10 hours a day Teens 9–10 hours a day Adults (including the elderly) 7–8 hours a day If you routinely lose sleep or choose to sleep less than needed, the sleep loss adds up. The total sleep lost is called your sleep debt. For example, if you lose 2 hours of sleep each night, you’ll have a sleep debt of 14 hours after a week. Some people nap as a way to deal with sleepiness. Naps may provide a short-term boost in alertness and performance. However, napping doesn’t provide all of the other benefits of night-time sleep. Thus, you can’t really make up for lost sleep. Some people sleep more on their days off than on work days. They also may go to bed later and get up later on days off. Sleeping more on days off might be a sign that you aren’t getting enough sleep. Although extra sleep on days off might help you feel better, it can upset your body’s sleep–wake rhythm. Bad sleep habits and long-term sleep loss will affect your health. If you’re worried about whether you’re getting enough sleep, try using a sleep diary for a couple of weeks. Write down how much you sleep each night, how alert and rested you feel in the morning and how sleepy you feel during the day. Show the results to your doctor and talk about how you can improve your sleep. You can find a sample sleep diary in the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute’s “Your Guide to Healthy Sleep.” Sleeping when your body is ready to sleep also is very important. Sleep deficiency can affect people even when they sleep the total number of hours recommended for their age group. For example, people whose sleep is out of sync with their body clocks (such as shift workers) or routinely interrupted (such as caregivers or emergency responders) might need to pay special attention to their sleep needs. If your job or daily routine limits your ability to get enough sleep or sleep at the right times, talk with your doctor. You also should talk with your doctor if you sleep more than 8 hours a night, but don’t feel well rested. You may have a sleep disorder or other health problem. Source: National Institutes of Health

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Let Us Help You Stay Connected

Turner Teleco Offers a Variety of Services for Your Business

ROM TELEGRAPHS TO SWITCHBOARDS, ROTARY to push-button phones, analog to digital; the world of telecommunications is quickly evolving. Advancements in technology today have put staying connected easier and faster than ever. What once was a two-way street enabling connection from one party to another has exploded into a networking superhighway of possibilities. Incorporating these privileges into your business allows you to boost productivity and stay connected, freely, from just about anywhere in the world. With the consistent progression of the telecommunications industry, staying on top of the latest technology is key. Turner Teleco has served the communities of Northeast Louisiana for over 30 years, providing an array of business communication and networking possibilities to our customers. We at Turner Teleco strive to evolve with technology to bring you the best and most efficient solutions for your business needs. Turner Teleco is proud to offer many different services to keep you connected to your business from anywhere, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our Cloud-based communications systems allow you to control your business communications functionality

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and productivity at your fingertips. Performance customization is endless with these systems; allowing many advantages such as multi-location connectivity, call monitoring, video-conferencing, fax, voice calls over IP and virtual and mobile extensions all from one dedicated window on your desktop. Our PerfectView Surveillance Systems allow you to monitor your physical business location with impeccable clarity from the comfort of your computer or mobile phone, anytime, day or night. As the telecommunications and IT industries have become intertwined, we recognize the importance of providing our customers with one central location for all of their phone and IT needs. In 2016, we are proud to be working towards providing managed IT services so that our customers can depend on us to maintain a structured and secure network for their business in addition to their phone and structured cabling needs. The benefits of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technology are endless, and we strive to bridge the understanding between our customers and the everchanging landscape of technology.

Coburn’s Kitchen and Bath Showroom DXV By American Standard

HROUGHOUT TIME, PEOPLE HAVE designed things that they need with looks they can’t live without. DXV delivers timeless design in time for today. DXV is a brand by American Standard that delivers Style and Substance from a range of Design Influences spanning over 150 years. DXV converges the most Influential Design Movements, curating them into an exclusive offering today. These Design movements consists of: • The Classic Era where timeless luxury and fine craftsmanship merge. • The Golden Era where subtlety and simplicity are discovered. • The Modern Era consists of playful and stoic pieces. • The Contemporary Movement has imagination moving forward. Merging the highest level of performance

with designs that refuse to let you blink. DXV is made for you, to outlast you. An exclusive spectrum of timely statements, DXV represents Eras of craftsmanship that have never gone out of style. DXV reimagines notable triumphs of Design from the Classic to the Contemporary. DXV by American Standard is sold exclusively through select plumbing design showrooms, and is available at Coburn Supply Company. They provide innovative products for the kitchen and bath, residential and commercial plumbing, heating and air conditioning, electrical, builder/contractor and waterworks projects. When you visit a Coburn’s Kitchen and Bath Showroom, you’ll find inspiration at every turn, from time-tested classics to the

hottest new styles, shapes and features. They are ready to show you products that you won’t find in the big-box stores, from some of the best manufacturers of kitchen and bath fixtures, appliances, lighting, hardware, cabinetry and accessories in the business. Visit their website for a list of the manufacturers they work with and find a full description of the products they carry. Coburn’s product specialists are ready to answer your questions and share their experience with the building process to help guide your selections. So, if you’re building a new home, updating, remodeling or just want a single replacement faucet, great ideas start at a Coburn’s Kitchen and Bath Showroom. Visit Coburn’s soon… and see what’s new.

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Majure Physical Therapy

Comfortable Environment. Compassionate Care. BY STACEY MAJURE, D.P.T.

What is pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD)? Pelvic floor dysfunction is diagnosis for many problems/symptoms that arise in the pelvic girdle region. It occurs when the pelvic floor muscles are underactive, overactive or non-functioning. Common symptoms include pelvic organ prolapse, urinary or fecal leakage, pain over genital area, painful intercourse, constipation or low back pain. Research has taught us that the pelvic floor muscle does not act alone. It’s part of a “team” that includes the diaphragm and transverse abdominis. So while the pelvic floor muscle always gets the blame, it’s only 1/3 of the problem. These three muscles are intricately connected and provide support around the abdominal cavity. When the “team” isn’t working efficiently, it leaves us with an unbalanced muscle and pressure

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system leading to many of the symptoms listed above. What causes pelvic floor dysfunction? Most of the causes of pelvic floor dysfunction are unknown. Postural changes over time, specifically in the pelvis and ribs, are responsible for a majority of cases. Traumatic injuries to the pelvic area, such as in an accident, and complications from vaginal childbirth can contribute to this condition. Ultimately, the brain is no longer coordinating the workload between the “team” of muscles that provide internal stability. How can physical therapy help? The role of a trained pelvic floor physical therapist is to determine the cause of the ongoing problem instead of only treating

the symptoms. We assess posture, breathing patterns, functional movement patterns, muscle strength/length, joint mobility and the muscle’s ability to fire in the proper sequence. Each plan of care is individualized for the patient. Our focus is on patient education and restoring the body’s strategy to work again. Our patients are treated one-on-one by an expert pelvic floor physical therapist in a comfortable, private environment. Examples of female patients we treat: • Courtney, 24 year old with endometriosis, complains of pelvic pain and difficulty tolerating intercourse. • Erin, 30 year old with 2 small children, complains of urinary leakage while playing with children, especially with jumping on trampoline. • Amy, 40 year old fitness enthusiast, complains of pain over tailbone with sitting, chronic hip pain and constipation. • Vanessa, 64 year old who complains of pain over genital area while sitting, unable to tolerate sitting on hard surfaces and must use cushion at all times. • Sarah, 81 year old who complains of low back pain along with urinary and fecal leakage.

Key Millwork and Supply Your KEY to a Beautiful Home

N 1971,V.J. AND PEGGY CASAMENTO opened Key Millwork, providing our hometown with cabinets, windows and doors. Well known for its custom cabinetry and kitchen design, this local business has become Northeast Louisiana’s premier location to find the most elite in home appliances. Designed to elevate your life-style, the most modern lines of kitchen appliances are on display in Key Millwork’s newly renovated showrooms. Sub-Zero, Wolf, Miele, Dacor, ASKO, KitchenAid and Sharp are just a few of the brands carried by Key Millwork. Supplying the Twin Cities with the newest, highend appliances, while creating an exciting atmosphere is their ultimate goal. Their qualified staff will assist you in selecting the most innovative, chic products to ensure you achieve your dream kitchen. They specialize in an Integrated/Flush design,

which furnishes a clean, classic look and feel. A modern twist can be added to any kitchen with the Island Lift, providing functional access to smaller appliances while freeing up needed counter space. Looking to entertain, or simply socialize with family and friends? The Galley Workstation will change the way you use your kitchen. Imagine being able to prepare, cook and serve dinner all in one space. Cutting boards, drain rack, colanders, bowls, condiment board and a sink divider for a custom ice compartment are all options for the Galley Sink making it irresistibly functional. And cleanup is a breeze, as everything you need is located in the most practical space in the kitchen. The Galley is not only perfect in function but elegant in style. Your front door makes a statement about your home. It should be inviting and

a reflection of the family living inside. … Think Andersen…America’s most trusted name in doors. Key Millwork and Supply is the only Andersen Products dealer in our area who can offer you the greatest selection of 100, 200, 400 series, Architectural and all-vinyl products available. Preserve the character of your home by replacing old windows. Andersen replacement windows offer 21st century performance with a traditional style. Their rich oak, maple or pine interiors, combined with fine craftsmanship and authentic grille designs, maintain the charm of the home you love. Key Millwork and Supply is redefining ‘sophisticated life-style’ and making it easy for you to incorporate it into your home. Visit our website at www.KeyMillwork. com or call (318) 387-9995 to make an appointment to begin your life of luxury.

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Flooded Fishing by Dan Chason

ature has a way of purging itself. Most of us struggled with sand bags, poly pipe and shovels to protect our homes while we watched area lakes rise to unprecedented levels. Although the flood created catastrophic property damage to our area, it has created a new challenge for area anglers. The high water could not have come at a worse time for small impoundments where the bass spawn was coming to its peak. In larger impoundments, the results were similar but both have created a new challenge for anglers. We have not had a normal water rate for some time. Fresh water is the spawning fish’s worst enemy as many will absorb eggs and not lay them. This effect won’t be felt until next year and all eyes will be on how devastating this high water actually was for our area lakes. Lakes such as D’Arbonne will be most affected as it drains into D’Arbonne Bayou and into the Ouachita River. Fish will be relocated, scattered and it may take a while before we truly know how fish were affected. When fishing high water, the golden rule is follow the current. If the water is rising, backs of creeks and tributaries will be the optimum place to fish for bass. Crappie will stabilize first and can be found on the drops and brush lines near deep water. It will take longer for both species to return to normal patterns as fresh water brings not only a bounty of bait fish, it also rearranges brush and cover that anglers rely on to fill their live wells. Fishing rivers will be much different. The smart angler will realign their thinking and look at backwater areas much as they would if the river

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were at pool stage. The current breaks and structure will still be key but the old reliable holes will change. There will be new wash-outs, new brush and blown tops that have been reset in areas that once were not considered top fishing holes. Finding these is as simple as reading banks and watching the depth finder/graph to determine how the high water has affected the area. Once the water settles back to close to pool stage, the old summer patterns will return and fishing will return to a somewhat normal pattern. Crappie fishing should be awesome this year, as we did have a complete spawn before all of the water came. The secret to locating schools of crappie this month is to find brush and bait. My option has always been to place man-made crappie tops. These tops can be any variety with my favorite being willow. The willows should not be cut until they bloom. The better the leaf structure, the better the top will perform. Place these tops adjacent to creeks, and remember to use plenty of weight to keep them down. I use wire ties instead of string, as they last longer and are easier to fish. Remember to place these willow tops as they naturally stand. Pulling a jig through the top “with the grain” of the limbs, prevents hang ups. I do not use Christmas trees of cedar or pine. These last a long time but they typically fall over and do not retain their leaves to promote plankton and algae growth which draws the bait. The absolute best time to rely on artificial brush or brush tops is after a long, high water event, such as the one we have just endured. The catfish spawn starts this month, and hopefully we will have a banner year. Even in high water, the cats will find shallow trees and cover

in shallow water to spawn. The trick to finding spawning cats in all of our waterways is to find the original bank. Cats instinctively know that when they lock onto the bed and spawn that they will always have water if they do their deed on the original bank. This is also the time for some brave souls to grab catfish. The same applies for this sport. With lots of wood rearranged and new holes born from moving water, catfishing should be the best it has been in years. On a side note, please remember one key thing in high water situations: Current kills. I was fishing the Ouachita River many years ago in high water. I was in a 20 foot boat and was concentrating on fishing, when the back of my boat hit a major current line. The boat crashed into a tree, pummeling me into the water. I felt pretty secure in this boat and never dreamed that the current could have ever made my boat move the way it did. Had it not been for my life preserver, I would not be writing this article. If you are in current, wear your PFD. Don’t assume that because you are in a large boat that disaster cannot occur. It does, can and will. Fishing in new water can be a challenge. The main objective is to figure out how the fish have configured in their new environment brought on by Mother Nature. While it can be challenging, it can be very rewarding. Spend more time looking and scouting and you can find those new honey holes. It may be an old tree that has fallen or a new ditch that was created by the water shed. Keep your eyes open, your graph on and of course that life preserver on. Good luck and good fishing.

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Miss Louisiana Pageant 2016 Pageant to Be Held June 23-25

HE 2016 MISS LOUISIANA Pageant and 53rd Crowning in Monroe will be held June 23 – 25. This year, the Miss Louisiana Organization will make available over $350,000 in cash and in-kind scholarships and will award over $62,000 in cash scholarships at the pageant. “We are very excited to provide each contestant at this year’s pageant with a minimum of $500 in scholarships, and many will walk away with several thousand dollars to go toward their education,” stated Dewana Little, Executive Director. “Miss Louisiana 2016 will win a $10,000 scholarship, as well as an award package worth much more.” The Miss Louisiana Organization exists to provide scholarship assistance for young women, enabling them to further their education, while encouraging and empowering them to promote their personal and professional platforms through

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community service. The Miss Louisiana Organization is part of the Miss America Organization, which is the largest provider of scholarships for women in the world, making available millions of dollars in scholarships annually. “I’ve earned $115,000 in scholarships. I’ve been able to pay off all of my student loans and graduate with a musical theatre degree from my dream school, Oklahoma City University. And, I have enough money left from Miss America to be able to afford a graduate degree after I get settled in LA. This program and these scholarships have truly changed my life!” – April Nelson, Miss Louisiana 2015 “With the scholarships I received through one year of competing in the Miss Louisiana Organization and from ULM, I

was able to graduate with a four-year degree debt free and still have financial assistance for graduate studies! Because of these scholarships, I will soon be graduating with a doctorate of physical therapy degree! The Miss Louisiana Organization has truly been a blessing in my life!” – Kelsi Crain, Miss Louisiana 2010 “We always remember the young ladies who were fortunate enough to win the title of Miss Louisiana and the scholarships that they were awarded, but what is even more impressive are the thousands of young ladies who have participated in the Miss Louisiana Organization over the years and the scholarships they were blessed to win. Many of them finished college debt free because of the scholarships earned through the Miss Louisiana Organization. Many are now doctors, lawyers, teachers, philanthropists, lobbyists, politicians, nurses and the list goes on. We are grateful for the sponsors and donors who continue to help us help young ladies have the opportunity to attend college and be successful in life.” – Dewana Little, Executive Director.

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St. Frederick First to Offer STREAM Courses

Intro Engineering and CAD/Robotics New Primary Courses

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T. FREDERICK IS THE ONLY SCHOOL IN NORTHEAST Louisiana offering a STREAM program with two primary courses being offered next school year – Introduction to Engineering and CAD/Robotics,” said Blair David, STREAM Director. Blair says more courses of this type will be offered that use the latest technology for students to learn to solve problems. “We are very excited to be in the process of building a new STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts and Math) building. This will be the only program of its kind in North Louisiana and makes St. Frederick unique in their approach to the learning process,” said David. St. Frederick is a member of the STEM Discovery, a program in partnership with Louisiana Tech and the Cyber Innovation Center offering a challenging, interdisciplinary junior/senior level high school design experience. Dr. Bob Webber, St. Frederick Principal, says “We are proud of our Robotics Team who placed third in state. The CAD/Robotics courses are part of the commitment to the community to continue to raise the bar to new levels at St. Frederick.” New ACT scores are proof that the commitment is paying off.

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The top 10% of the St. Frederick Class of 2016 scored 32.3 or higher on ACT, top 40% scored 30 or higher and top 50% scored 29 or higher. Blair David is the second person from West Monroe High School to join the St. Frederick family. Shere May, long-time principal at West Monroe High School, is the Admissions Director at St. Frederick. Prior to accepting the position of STREAM Director, David taught classes and served as the Head of the Science Department at West Monroe High School. He was also the MAGNATech Academy Director at West Monroe High School. MAGNATech is a preengineering and pre-professional health academy. “Blair is an exceptional teacher who makes project based learning work. Students learn by a hands-on application not just by memorizing. I believe he is the best and most qualified STEM teacher in the state. Several states have utilized the STEM program he established at West Monroe High School. We are very fortunate and blessed to have Blair on the faculty at St. Frederick,” said Dr. Bob Webber, Principal. For more information about the STREAM program or enrollment, contact Shere May, Admissions Director at 318-323-9636.

Fine Interiors and Unique Gifts Introducing The Pillow Bar at Walsworth & Company

ALSWORTH & COMPANY HAS been meeting and exceeding the home needs of Northeast Louisiana residents for the past two years. Featuring everything from furniture, home accessories, candles, rugs, art, lamps, chandeliers, jewelry, and linens, the upscale, chic and comfortable elegance of the showroom floor is a shopping experience for the senses. Where some sections of the store are soft and neutral, others have bursts of color with the addition of a unique rug pattern, lamp shade or canvas art. The scents of candles and body and bath line products add to the relaxed experience for shoppers. The design elements are featured as if each nook is its own room, and the attention to detail and placement is acute and timeless. Walsworth & Company is locally owned by Dawne Walsworth, who recently brought The Gingerbread House into Walsworth & Company, providing an expanded shopping experience for shoppers. The makers of The Pillow Bar provide personalized comfort and relaxation. Having

spent over a year conducting sleep tests with chiropractors and neurosurgeons, the pillows are hand made to “match your unique sleep style and physical size.” The luxury is enriched with the addition of embroidered zipper protectors and aromatic French lavender sachets. Featuring sterilized and hypoallergenic European down without quills or feathers and down alternative, the pillows are made in Dallas, Texas and come with 300 thread count washable cases. When choosing a pillow, developer and owner of The Pillow Bar, Merrimac Dillon, reminds us that one’s natural sleep style depends on how one wakes up, not how one goes to sleep; something to keep in mind when choosing which pillow suits your needs. The pillows come in all sizes: King, Queen, Standard, European Square, Pillow Petite, Boudoir/Travel, Dr. Mary Side Sleeper, Slumberlicious Body Pillow and Back Sleeper. The line also provides down duvets, duvet covers, and hot and cold eyemasks. Embroidery is included on the cotton

sateen sheet sets, Pima cotton towels, Turkish towel bathrobes, and Boyfriend Nightshirts that come in blue, white and lavender. The Pillow Bar products are created to provide the opulent sleeping experience enveloped in comfortable styles that are “pristine, clean, and personal.” The addition of The Pillow Bar line to Walsworth & Company is a natural one, as the elements of style and sophistication should also provide the same level of comfort. Walsworth & Company continues to offer top of the line service and sophistication to enrich and elevate your home, style and senses. Walsworth & Company is located on Antique Alley at 311 Trenton Street in Downtwon West Monroe. The store is open Monday-Saturday, 10-5:30, or visit their website at WalsworthandCo.com.

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SaniCan Bin Cleaning

Keeping NELA Clean and Green, One Can at a Time!

ANICAN BIN CLEANING ALL STARTED AS AN IDEA SIX years ago after Matt Rainwater heard of the business idea while working on the pipeline in New Mexico. At first it seemed crazy, but after talking the idea over with his wife Michelle, they thought this would be a great service to bring back to their hometowns of Northeast Louisiana. After years of saving money, putting together a business plan and waiting on the system to be completed, their dreams are finally reality. SaniCan provides a mobile Trash Bin Cleaning Service for both residential and commercial bins. The service removes harmful bacteria and fungus commonly found in unsanitary trash bins. Dirty, stinky, unhealthy garbage cans and dumpsters will now be a thing of the past with this new service. Using a state of the art machine designed to clean, sanitize and deodorize garbage bins, there’s no reason to dread making the trip to your personal can or business dumpster anymore. All water and products used during the cleaning process are contained, filtered and disposed of daily. Think for a second about all the things we put in our trashcans, from food products and containers, to baby diapers and pet waste, and everything in between. Did you know common bacteria’s associated with garbage cans are Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria? Also think about pest and rodents that derive from garbage cans and dumpsters – roaches, ants, flies, rats, raccoons and so on! Plus, dirty trash-bins are a potential source for illnesses. Containers left outside can gather bird droppings and pollen that can cause illnesses and create problems for people who suffer with allergies. The dangerous bacteria and mold that can be found in your bins can cause many different illnesses. With an affordable solution to all these problems, SaniCan Bin Cleaning is able to put them to a halt. After years of having to deal with the nastiness of waste buildup in garbage containers, there is now a service to eliminate this problem. The SaniCan motto is, “Keep NELA Clean and Green One Can at a Time.” Sign up today for service by visiting them online at www.sanicanllc.com or calling 318-496-0060! All residential pricing is listed online. They are currently offering a special for residential customers. If you sign up for one year of service, you will receive one month free! If you are a commercial customer interested in service, please call for pricing.

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Breast Reduction A Lifestyle Choice

AYBE IT’S THE BACK PAIN. OR NECK PAIN. OR, maybe it’s because their clothes don’t fit right – or they’re too self-conscious. Whatever the reason, women who choose breast reduction aren’t alone. The procedure is one of the most popular plastic surgery options in the U.S. And in fact, it’s one of the reasons women call plastic surgeon H. Stephen Maguire, M.D. “This is a common complaint,” Maguire said. “Most want the breast, reduction because of discomfort in their back, neck and shoulders. Often, it is something they feel is very intrusive when it comes to exercising or other daily activities.” During the outpatient procedure, Dr. Maguire will reduce the breast as well as reshape it. The nipple is moved up to a more youthful position and the areola is reduced in diameter. Most patients return to work in five to seven days. Women will see an immediate decrease in size AND, a decrease in back, neck and shoulder pain. “A good candidate for breast reduction surgery is a woman who feels her breasts are too large for her frame and who feels that her breasts interfere with her activities of daily living,” Maguire said. Women considering the surgery should also keep this in mind: • Your insurance may or may not pay for breast reduction. Some insurances do pay for the surgery, but all require patients to meet certain criteria. • Your doctor probably won’t talk to you about “cup size.” Instead, you’ll discuss “grams.” Keep in mind that 454 grams equals 1 pound. • You will get a breast lift along with reduction. The breast tissue and skin will be selectively removed to better approximate a more youthful appearance. • I f you’re a stomach sleeper, get ready. Post-op instructions require patients to stay off their stomachs for several weeks while healing. With all that in mind, it’s also nice to know that more than 90 percent of breast reduction patients are very satisfied with their results – and their new, more active lifestyle. To find out if breast reduction surgery is right for you, call (318) 442-5800.

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J A C K i n

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BOX When you touch a piece of artist Jack Gates’ work, you can feel the passion of a man who believes that in addition to creativity, successful art involves critical thinking skills and thoughtful decisions.

Article By Barbara Leader and Photographs by Brad Arender

hile Shreveport-born artist Jack Gates, 71, considers himself primarily a studio furniture artist who uses a combination of fine woodworking and sculptural skills, he’s also dabbled in photography, ceramics, music, three-dimensional wall art, drawing and sculpture. His chosen art form isn’t easily categorized by the art community. “We used to call it sculptured furniture – it’s furniture made by artists, and it’s usually one of a kind. When I would enter my work into a sculpture show, they would say, ‘that’s not sculpture, that’s furniture.’ When I would enter a furniture show, they would say, ‘that’s not furniture, it’s sculpture.” The unique design aspects of Gates’ work allow it to be accepted in either genre. Most of his furniture pieces are a blend of fine-furniture skills like dove-tailed joints and sculptural elements like furniture legs that angle from the piece to the floor in an unexpected way. “There are some things that I might use that are used in fine woodworking and there are some things that aren’t,” Gates said. “There are things that a sculptor might use. But, my work cannot rely solely on fine woodworking, because there are images and things that can’t be built that way. They have to be built in different ways.”

IT ALL STARTED IN CHURCH The seeds of his life-long career were planted early in his life. “My mother once told me that my first work was done drawing on church bulletins while sitting on her lap during church services,” Gates said with a laugh. While Gates continued with drawing while he attended elementary, middle and high school, it was at Northwestern State University that he discovered his passion for studio furniture, almost by accident. “I was in pre-engineering, which I probably wasn’t smart enough for, so I decided that I was going to major in either art or music. It’s one of those ‘believe it or not’ things. I flipped a coin. If it had landed on music, I probably would have eventually gotten into art but art came up first ,so that’s what I did. I continued to play in the band, but eventually I realized that I needed more time outside of class to make art,” he said. Northwestern State University didn’t have a wood-working program at the time, so Gates considers himself mostly self-taught. “All they had was a mallet, three gouges and a handsaw that nobody used but me,” Gates said. But it was there that he produced his first wood carving in a 3-D design class in 1964. “I always made furniture while I was at Northwestern. There were many pieces that I made on my own, outside of class, and sold them to get through school,” he recalled recently. “I sold a few things to the professors on campus. I sold a cookie jar for $50 --at that time that would buy books for a semester. I sold a wood carving one time for $250 when tuition was $300.” Gates briefly taught high school art near New Orleans, and then he entered a graduate program in sculpture at Tulane University. “When I graduated from Tulane, I stayed for a while in sculpture, but I drifted into furniture. It didn’t take long for me to determine that it was my strength. That’s what you do, you go to your strength – mine wasn’t sculpture; it was furniture.” HIS PROCESS For most of his life, Gates has produced some form of art – even in his sleep. During one particularly prolific period, he says he slept with a drawing book by his bed. “I’d dream art all night long,” he said. “They say when you dream, the emotional part of your mind is at total rest. I’d wake up and draw during the night because most of the time you’re not going to remember what you dream.” Gates’ work usually begins with a drawing. 128 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

“IF YOU WANT ART TO BE FURNITURE, IT HAS TO DO CERTAIN THINGS TO BE FUNCTIONAL, BUT THEN HOW FAR CAN YOU PUSH IT AWAY FROM THAT TO MAKE IT SCULPTURE? OR WHAT ELSE CAN IT BE?” “From there, I start and then put the drawing aside and pay attention to the piece,” he said. “I only go back to the drawing, when I have a problem on where to go with the piece. Then I draw the area of the problem and try to work it out. You can see a lot of different views through drawing. But sometimes you can’t. You just have to dive in and do it – physically build and make decisions –it always comes down to that.” “The way that I usually work is to start with a whole idea and make parts and those parts go back together to form the whole,” he said. “There is another way to work and I’ve only done it one time. You start with all of your scraps and see what you have. You don’t have a whole, an idea, but you take the parts and you create the whole.” “Working drawings can tell you a lot

more about the thinking of the artist than just the finished piece because each piece goes through a lot of things. I may have 50 drawings of how I’m going to make one joint. If you look at drawings, you can see how an artist thinks and where he goes from one step to another in hopefully some kind of logical progression. I make choices, but I like to have lots of things to choose from. So when I make a choice, it’s not ‘this is what I do’; it’s ‘you can do this, but what else can you do? That’s a type of thinking-- critical thinking. You can’t just say, this is the answer, because there may be a better one. “ SHARING HIS PASSION Gates joined the faculty of Indiana State University in 1980, when it had one of only 10 collegiate woodworking programs at the

time. He eventually was awarded tenure and the title of Professor Emeritus. According to Gates, teaching isn’t easy, “if you do it the right way.” “Two and two aren’t always four in our business, and that’s why some students get frustrated,” he said. “They want it to always be the same, and they want rules. We make rules in art, but we make them to be broken, and they can’t deal with that, because traditional education is not that way.”

Gates says it was challenging to encourage students to think about their projects from many directions. “You have to make decisions about certain things. And when you do that, you have to think of a lot of ways to do it,” he said. “You can’t just land on one thing and say, this is the answer, because it may be the wrong answer. “Art makes no sense, if you make no critical choices – if you throw everything in.

Anything that has 3 dimensions has to exist. It isn’t an illusion, like a photograph. If it’s going to be furniture then it has to have limitations. That I find challenging. I like to have limitations and then work around them and try to deal with that instead of being totally free.” “If you want art to be furniture, it has to do certain things to be functional, but then how far can you push it away from that to make it sculpture? Or what else can it be?” WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

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AN ALTERNATE POINT OF VIEW “I’ve found over the years that many times if you have a question about how to design or to put something together, you have to pay attention to the physics of the piece,” Gates said. “It’s like you don’t know what you want it to look like, but if you pay attention to the best way to put it together, then the aesthetics fall into line ,because you can’t separate them.” Gates has a mirror in his studio that he uses to problem solve. “A lot of times you’ll be looking at a piece and you can’t figure out what’s wrong or what to do. Then you look in that mirror and you see the reverse and ‘bingo’ it pops right up. I don’t know what it does, but it makes you see things from a different light. It’s not just the angle. I don’t know how to explain it, but it works for me. It may not work for everybody.” KNOWING WHEN TO STOP “When you’re working on a piece, there is a time when you have to walk away. When you come back, the answer will be right there. You will have been right on top of it and never have known it, because you’re too close.” Gates says that creativity is vital to art, but he says it’s something that you can’t force. “If you force it, it’s impossible. It’s just not going to happen. It doesn’t matter whether you take five minutes on a piece or five years, it can be either good or bad. Time has nothing to do with 130 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

it. There have been times when I’ve tried to convince myself that a piece was good when it wasn’t. If it’s not good from the get-go, forget it. It will never get any better. It’ll only get worse.” WHEN IT’S MORE THAN ART Over his career Gates has made art objects ranging from weapons to crosses. On commission, he made a processional cross for St. Mary of the Woods Catholic Church in West Terra Haute and an 8-foot cross for the Mother’s House at St. Mary’s Dominican College. His processional cross is made from a Linden tree that had grown and died on the grounds of the church. “I had the strangest experience with that cross,” he said. “I went to church there and saw the cross while they were having services and then I didn’t see it. It was still up there, but lying down. People were actually walking up there and praying and kissing the cross. The person that I was with told me what they were doing and I just froze. It was the symbol of course. It’s a precious item to them, but to me to some degree it was an art object – and art objects are not to be held in that esteem. But, of course, by being that image, it was. She asked me if I was going to do it, too. But, it wasn’t something I could do. I didn’t seem special enough to go up there and do it.”

INSIDE AN ARTIST’S MIND “I think passion is the key to art. You probably need more passion than just for one person. A friend of mine once told me that I had enough passion for five people. And you probably do need a little extra, so it doesn’t run out. It’s just that you have to be overloaded with passion. You really do. “ Gates believes a successful artist can still be growing in his work. “The thing about making art is that it never gets easier,” he said. “If you’re not just stuck in a rut making the same thing continuously, each step up the ladder gets a little bit harder.” The only place where there is a large concentration of Gates’ work is at his home and the homes of friends and family. Presently, there is no formal exhibit of his work, although he has displayed at the Masur Museum of Art in Monroe and has pieces of his work in the Terra Haute Children’s Museum, Tulane University and at Indiana State University. He’s also been featured in national art publications. “Sometimes people will ask me how long it took me to do something, and I’ll say, ‘Let’s see…. I’m 71 years old…so, 71 years’. Everything I’ve known since I was born, I’m going to use some of that somewhere. It’s all information and experiences.”

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Seeking the Peace of the City

Future Leaders Need an Education in the Permanent Things

ENEVA ACADEMY’S MISSION IS to serve the community by providing an education for cultural leadership and transformation. This education must be faithful to Christ, must teach the foundational tools of learning, and must prepare students for the future. Hard Work and Holiness A faithful education begins with the fear of the Lord. A faithful education means having a strong work ethic, academic rigor and holiness—which should all go together. A faithful education means honest work, quality work and joyful work. It means loving the Lord with the heart, strength and mind. A Trivium Education A foundational education is what history recognized as teaching the “tools of learning.” The tools of learning are known as the

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Trivium: Grammar, Logic and Rhetoric. In the early years of a child’s education, (K-6th), the child naturally and joyfully remembers facts of math (multiplication tables), facts of history (dates, people, events), facts of science (animals, planets, rocks) and the facts of grammar (noun, verb, adjective). During the Logic stage, (7th-9th), the students love to argue, reason and debate. This is the best time to train them in formal logic. The students are invited to reason together, to listen to one another and to come to sound conclusions. The Rhetoric stage (10th-12th) is the stage of eloquence. At this age students are particularly interested in how they present themselves. They study the classical forms of rhetoric and practice presenting ideas in a winsome and effective manner. They write essays, poems, stories, short plays and music. In the senior year, they write a thesis and give

a public defense. Emphasis is placed on reading quality literature and original sources. While the subjects in a classical education are mostly the same subjects as any other school, the goal is mastery of the tools of learning, so the students become autodidacts. This is a foundational education, because it is preparation for all of life. Preparation for the Future Classical Christian education is also future-oriented. How we teach today shapes tomorrow for good or ill. A classical, Christian education is an education for the future, because it prepares the students in the true, the good and the beautiful, that which does not change with the economy or with an upgrade on the computer. Skills in language, in thinking and in communication are transferable skills for a rapidly changing time. It’s an education in the permanent things. As C.S. Lewis once said: “All that is not eternal, is eternally out of date.” We need an education that is faithful, foundational and future-oriented. God blesses us in order that we may bless others. We are given much, so that we might give much. This is an education that “seeks the peace of the city.”

Springtime Gift Ideas The Muffin Tin and Trenton House Have You Covered

T’S THAT TIME OF YEAR...THE TIME for flowers and sunshine, warmer weather and lots of gatherings. Between all the events that are happening, Mother’s Day fast approaching and school coming to a close, it’s hard to find time for shopping. Luckily, the Muffin Tin and Trenton House carry such a wide selection, you can get all you need in one stop! Caps and gowns, parties and ceremonies… The graduates in your life are in luck, because The Muffin Tin and Trenton House carry Jon Hart luggage and accessories. Made with durable materials, they come in a wide selection of styles and colors. Their collegiate line is extremely popular, making this the go-to gift for grads this season. Have it monogrammed for an extra special touch that they will always remember.

Vera Bradley makes great gift items for grads as well. Beach towels are always a hot item for the summer, and travel pillows for those senior trips and bon voyages off to college are a must. If you aren’t quite sure what to get the grad in your life, a gift card from The Muffin Tin and Trenton House is the perfect solution. They carry such a large selection of travel items, household items, bath and body and kitchen essentials, there is surely something your grad can find that will help them start their new chapter on the right foot. Every mom seems to have her own favorite Niven Morgan scent. For that reason, this line is an all-time favorite for Mother’s Day. Whether you give her bath products, body products, candles or a scent for the home, she is sure to be impressed.

For Mom, the Muffin Tin and Trenton House hold the area’s largest selection of Tyler Candles and wash. Tyler Candle Company uses the finest quality waxes and opulent fragrance oils available to create the ultimate aroma experience. Each Tyler candle is hand-poured, ensuring even burning and maximum fragrance saturation. Another unique item found at The Muffin Tin and Trenton House is a Lux sachet made from vintage Japanese kimonos. Other ideas are Nest Candles, Archipelago candles and bath products. And new this year, Capri Blue now has lotions and soap to go along with their famous candle scents, Volanco, Blue Jean and Aloha Orchid.

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Signs Now of Monroe

More than a Full Service Sign Company

IGNS NOW DESIGNS, PRODUCES and installs a large variety of custom signs for any industry and occasion. Their products are excellent advertising and communication tools that send strong marketing messages and create memorable experiences. But, they are more than just a full service sign company. Owners Justin and Laurie Millar purchased the Monroe location of Signs Now in October 2013 not only to fulfill a dream of owning their own business, but also to be able to be part of their community. “I was born here and our kids have grown up here so we have roots here,” said Laurie Millar. “We are very proud to donate and support local non-profits, like The Cinderella Project of Monroe, Susan G. Komen of Northeast Louisiana, Mercy Ministries, Battle of the Badges, plus various fundraisers and area schools and sporting events.” While most people know that Signs Now is capable of producing real estate signs and

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banners, few know they do so much more. Window graphics and custom window decals are a durable and cost-effective solution that allows you to take advantage of storefront window space to promote products, services or specials. These graphics and decals can be taken to a whole new level, as well with vehicle wraps. Signs Now also offers dimensional signs and letters, including company logo signs, reception area signs and wall letters, adding an extra pop and providing a unique and artistic touch. These 3-D signs can be used as the main signage for a business, which will really turn heads. Trade show and exhibit displays are another specialty of Signs Now. They can provide you with professional booth displays that will prove to be your strongest promotional asset! Whether you regularly work trade shows with a fully-developed expo booth or just need an ultra light but effective display

for corporate boardroom presentations, there are a variety of products in the marketplace to help you deal with today’s ever-evolving business landscape. Many businesses need wayfinding or directional signage that the team at Signs Now can design, produce and install as well. The expert team of in-house graphic designers can design all of these signs and projects at Signs Now. This makes the allimportant turn around time quicker and more efficient. Not only are they done quickly, but they are produced on a quality full color graphics printer on the highest quality material, meaning your signs will last, saving you money in the long run. “Above all else, our customer service is what sets us apart from the rest,” said Laurie. “We strive to build and maintain relationships with our customers, and we truly care about their projects, their business and their bottom line.”

Teresa’s Flooring and Decorating Changing the Way We Look at Floors

INCE 2002,TERESA’S FLOORING AND DECORATING has provided this community with the best selection of flooring, granite counter tops, tile, carpeting and much more. Always keeping the customer in mind, we offer a service that stands above the rest. With our clean, organized showroom and warehouse, we strive to make your decision process as easy as possible. At Teresa’s Flooring and Decorating, nothing is more important to us than our customers. We take pride in our customer service. By being local we can cater to each person and guarantee that clients are completely satisfied with their selections. In doing this, our customers keep coming back and are considered a part of our family. We look forward to your patronage and believe that customer satisfaction should be guaranteed. We are proud of our products and offer them at competitive prices. Continually going out of our way, we strive to show our customers the value in choosing Teresa’s Flooring and Decorating. Offering the best possible products to our customers is just one of the ways we stand out from the competition. With options

for every room in the house, we provide a huge selection of hardwood, tile and laminate flooring. Teresa’s Flooring and Decorating also provides decorating, flooring removal, maintenance and installation to Monroe, LA and the surrounding areas, including Alexandria and West Monroe. Much more than just a place to find flooring, we have a wide selection of custom showers with installation, tub surrounds and back-splashes. Also, we have the largest showroom in North Louisiana that is covered in all types of flooring, providing an opportunity to see your floor laid out before you purchase. Stop by our showroom on Cypress Street in West Monroe, check out our website teresasflooring.net or call (318.340.1667) to get a free estimate and experience the easiest way to design your home. Our staff will help you every step of the way in making your dream home a reality.

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Golson’s Grills Four Things You Need to Know About Infrared Grills

ITH SPRING IN FULL BLOOM, there could be no better time to get those grillers ready for a barbecue feast with the rest of the gang. Still pondering which brand and kind of grill your perfect match is? Before you commit, here are some myths and facts about infrared (IR) grilling, an undeniably popular technology in grillology today. • I R grills seal in moisture through searing. Searing has nothing to do with sealing (although they sound alike). To sear is to simply brown the surface of your meat (e.g. steak) through high temperature. Because IR grills can cater to very high temperatures, they are great for searing meat. • I R grills make for tender, juicy and flavorful cooking. Yes, it’s true! The use of radiant heat

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(not searing) makes this possible. Traditional gas grills rely on hot, dry air to transfer heat (convection cooking). This dries food. But while most IR grills still combine convective heat with radiant heat, SABER grill uses 100% radiant heat. It also directs airflow away from the cooking surface. The result is even juicier and more flavorful food. • IR grills are prone to flare-ups and thus, have a tendency to char meat and fluctuate cooking temperatures. This is true for most IR grills, because they use ceramic emitters. But SABER grill’s cooking grate and IR emitter are different. It has a patented design that prevents flare-ups. You are in control of your grill’s temperature with SABER. And charred burgers only happen intentionally. • Grills with quality material and

workmanship like infrared grills are a luxury. It used to be true. Now, you have an affordable choice, like SABER grill which uses 304 commercial grade steel and applies top caliber technology. If you’re crazy about grilling to perfection and cooking your favorite foods just the way you want them, SABER grill’s patented infrared cooking system is worth checking out. SABER grill has options for built-in and standalone grills, grill accessories and outdoor kitchen components. They also have an online store, where you can learn more about their products.

Woodstock Furniture Revival Come Celebrate Five Years of Business with Us BY CHELSIE AND PATRICK SUMMERVILLE

T IS HARD TO BELIEVE THAT IT HAS BEEN FIVE YEARS since Woodstock opened its doors. Woodstock offers a variety of different gifts to please everyone, from home décor and furniture to candles and bath lines. Campo De Fiori, Woodstock’s most popular pot collection is perfect for any plant whether indoor or outdoor. The live moss that adorns the outside of these pots grows and becomes greener the more you water them, making them unique. Our candle lines will fill your home with amazing scents all year round. Rewined candles are made from soy wax and are hand poured into hand-cut recycled wine bottles. The scents mimic aromas found in your favorite wines. Voluspa candles are made of natural coconut and apricot waxes that help release the maximum fragrance and have become a household favorite. Capri Blue and Aspen Bay, sister companies made in Mississippi, are all-natural, hand-poured candles that are sure to please. Last, but certainly not least is the Lafco House and Home Collection. These natural soy candles, poured into hand-blown glass vessels have been featured as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things. Each scent is designed for a specific room of your home. We carry every Lafco scent, offering you the biggest variety in town.

Our bath and body lines make great gifts, as well. Our best selling body line is also one of Oprah’s favorite things, Lollia. We carry all seven sexy and luxurious scents they have to offer, making our selection the biggest in the Twin Cities. Lollia has just introduced prepackaged gift sets that would make great Graduation or Mother’s Day Gifts. Barr and Co. is our favorite bodyline. This natural line is packaged in hand-crafted apothecary bottles with a great natural scent. These are just a few of our best gift lines for any day of the year. We also offer one-of-a-kind found furniture, home décor and art. Our artists include Margaret Becton Cox’s beautiful landscapes and Caroline Youngblood’s cotton and oyster collections. We have lots of other items including handmade picture frames from funky painted molding to Pom Pom at Home bedding and fully customizable Moss Studio upholstered furniture. Just come stop by 1806 North 3rd in the Garden District to find a unique one-of-a-kind gift that is sure to please anyone for any occasion.

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Happy Mother’s Day from Sue From Cards to Luggage, Sue Paperie Has the Perfect Gift

UE PAPERIE IS MORE THAN JUST A STATIONERY store and they are proving that with their wide selection of items for both Mother’s Day and graduation season. They have a variety of items that will make any gift personalized. Jon Hart is the ultimate gift for anyone. Their line, available at Sue Paperie, features personalized, handcrafted items, including luggage, travel accessories, handbags, sporting goods, and business and executive gifts all of which come in a variety of contemporary coated canvas, leather or Texas Mink fabrics. For the grad, the Jon Hart laundry bag or cosmetic bag can be monogrammed, so it doesn’t get lost in the shuffle of college life. If Dad is looking for something to say how much he appreciates Mom, there are several sizes of luggage from the Jon Hart line that will do just that. Sue Paperie has options for kids to give mom, as well. One of their favorite items is the Kate Spade thermal mug, perfect for any mom on the go. Plus, they can pick out a favorite card from one of the many unique lines at Sue Paperie including Smock, Ladyfingers Letterpress, Social Type and Rifle Paper Company.

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For the future college co-ed, there are plenty of gift ideas for graduation. Sue Paperie carries Lilly Pulitzer items, which include a fabulous beach tote, umbrellas, stylish key fobs, tumblers and folios. Kate Spade has an entire line of desk products and accessories that will keep her stylish and studious. From pencil sets, journals, erasers, notebooks, tape dispensers, staplers and a pencil cup, Sue Paperie has it all. While Sue Paperie does have more than just paper, they are known for being a one stop shop for all things stationery, making the shop graduation headquarters. If you have a senior needing thank you notes for those graduation gifts, there are plenty of custom and in stock lines to choose from. Come in now to order personalized or monogrammed note cards, note pads, thank you notes, party invitations and more. Whether you are looking for the perfect present for Mother’s Day or a graduation gift, Sue Paperie is the place to shop for something that can be custom created and have that extra special feel!

Ouachita Parish School System Talented Art Program The Talented Art Program Will Hold Annual Student Art Exhibition May 2nd - May 13th

he Ouachita Parish School System Talented Art Program will hold its annual student art exhibition May 2 through May 13. Public viewing will be available daily from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Student Support Services on 800 Claiborne Street in West Monroe. A reception recognizing the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best of Showâ&#x20AC;? winners will be held on May 5 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with the awards at 6:00 p.m. The exhibition will showcase approximately 450 pieces of artwork from second grade to high school from all 36 parish schools. The Talented Art Program is composed of students who must meet the Louisiana State requirements for talented visual art. Students must be evaluated based on their knowledge in visual art and their artistic abilities. The students are taught by highly qualified teachers, who themselves are great artists. Teachers work with the

by Micheala Butler

by Tiffany Jester

students individually to enhance their ability using the principles and elements of art. The art exhibition which is a juried show, allows students to display their work alongside other talented artists from within the parish. The students get to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses and compare works with other artists in a professional,

fun and enriching atmosphere. By allowing students to compare their work with other students in the parish, it encourages them to strive for excellence in their own individual art. The community will get to see a wide variety of artistic ability ranging from still life drawing to animals to self-portraits. Media used by the students will incorporate charcoal, pastels, oils and colored pencils. There will be something on display that will appeal to viewers of all ages. The exhibition and reception would not be possible without the corporate sponsorship from CenturyLink and their support of the student artists with the Ouachita Parish School System. To help support the Talented Art Program notecards with student artwork will be available at Student Support Services for a five dollar donation.

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Thousand Year Storm

How flood waters united the community and turned all of us into first responders Article by Michael DeVault, photos by Gaeb Cardinale

ain had been in the forecast for days, and by all accounts leading up to the storm, this spring shower was going to be a whopper. By the time the first drops fell in the late night hours of March 8 and into the morning of March 9, it became increasingly clear that the direst predictions had been wrong by a factor of at least double. Across Ouachita Parish, first responders went on high alert. Water was expected to rise quickly in low-lying areas, and no area, no demographic would be immune. Tanglewood subdivision, Monroe’s historic Garden District, and River Oaks were all told to prepare for the worst. A flood was coming, and there wasn’t much the region could do to stop it. Fresh off his victory in the City Council elections just a few days before, Michael Echols hopped in his car and set out into the community. “When I first realized we had a pretty bad situation, right after that first, big rain, I wanted to go out in my district and see where we had flooding problems,” Echols said. The weather had subsided, at least momentarily, and he could see areas where flood control measures 140 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

seemed to be working and areas where the infrastructure might be improved. Along Hogg Bayou in the River Oaks subdivision, he watched as a torrent of water flowed over the road. It wasn’t an unusual sight, considering that Hogg Bayou is one of the major drainage conduits in Chauvin Basin, the miles wide floodplain through which much of the parish drains into the Ouachita River. Within just a few minutes, he noticed something disturbing. In spite of a lull in the rain, the water was still rising. “I realized right then that this flood was a little different than normal flooding.” Over the next 24 hours, the storm system that dealt that first blow stalled out. Instead of moving into Mississippi and the Tennessee River Valley, the clouds hunkered down over Louisiana, dumping time and again multiple inches of rain. By the time the clouds parted, the area had seen more than 21” of rain. Some sites in Ouachita Parish recorded in excess of 24” of precipitation. By any standard, this flood rivaled previous flooding in 1991 and conjured images of Ronald Reagan in an Army Jeep on U.S. 165 North in 1984. In meteorological terms, this marked an extraordinary rain event. They call it a 1,000-year storm. Donna Branson’s Garden District home

was among the first to take on water, with the rains encroaching two rooms early Tuesday. At first, she and her family were able to beat the water back with towels and wet-vacs. Wednesday morning, she went to work, believing that the worst was behind them. After all, they were on the higher end of K Street, and their home had never experienced flooding. That changed by lunchtime Wednesday. “My husband called me at work and said to come home immediately,” Branson said. For the next few hours, they worked with family and friends to push back the water. They had a lot at stake. Only recently, the Bransons had completed a major remodel of their home, floor-to-ceiling work had been completed. Only a few months before had they finished work and put the house back together. Now, they were fighting to save it. Around 7:30 p.m. Wednesday night, the situation changed. Water began to rush into the house faster than they could respond. Almost immediately, Branson and her family realized it was time to go. “It was like we lost the war that we’d been fighting and fighting for a couple of days,” she said. They grabbed what possessions they could and filled the family cars. Branson figures they got out just in time to save the vehicles

from the fate of the house. Branson’s story is anything but unique. Across the parish, every community, every neighborhood was affected. Residents sprang into action to help neighbors sandbag until it became clear sandbagging wasn’t enough. They helped evacuate those who couldn’t get out themselves. They sheltered friends and strangers suddenly rendered homeless by Mother Nature. River Oaks resident Taylor Hubenthal was at Ground Zero for some of the worst of the early flooding. His home lies on the high side of Deborah Drive, across the railroad tracks from Hogg Bayou. Over the course of the week, Hubenthal witnessed a remarkable response as neighbors came together to sandbag the levee, shore up weak spots, and help evacuate people and property from flooding areas. He noticed people he’d never met before, some from West Monroe, some from Sterlington, and even some who had been flooded out of their own homes. Even a number of city workers not tasked to Public Works were on hand to help in any way they could. “There are certainly a lot of people around town who are unrecognized heroes. They definitely deserve some recognition,”

Hubenthal said. In spite of the obstacles, the town came together. In those early moments, everyone was a first-responder. “There were a lot of volunteers around River Oaks, people who I’d never seen, trying to build the wall to keep the water out.” Echols assesses it similarly. He not only saw teamwork between diverse respondents from area governments, whether the individuals were with Public Works or the Police and Fire Departments. Everybody joined the team. “The citizens really stepped up,” he said. “What was even more impressive was the community really stepped up both locally and nationally.” West Monroe fared little better. Within hours, water was encroaching on West Monroe High School. Homes near the high school had already taken on water, and as the rains continued, the water flowed into the school, across Cypress Street, and into buildings across central West Monroe. Similar scenes repeated themselves across the region. Tanglewood Subdivision, a frequent victim of flooding, went under quickly. Not too long after, water rose on areas of north Monroe normally immune to high water. In Frenchman’s Bend, dozens of homes took on water. By the end of the second day, access to Treasure Island was being limited,

and raging waters in Black Bayou threatened to top the bridge to the neighborhood. Yet what seemed like an endless torrent of water eventually stopped falling, giving first responders and would-be heroes a moment to catch up, to get just a little ahead with sandbagging and evacuations, and to consider what would come next. Those were precious moments, and no one wasted them. Builder and artist Lissy Compton knew one of the first things people would need after the rains stopped was financial and material assistance. Thousands of people were homeless, at least temporarily, and they needed food, clothing and shelter, all of which costs money. Compton and her husband, Brent, own Mr. P’s Tees, a local tee-shirt company. Wanting to chip in as much as she could, Compton designed a tee-shirt, the proceeds of which would go to support flood relief efforts. The design was of a deer, wearing hip waders and holding sandbags. She wasn’t sure how many she would be able to sell, but she understood every dollar would help. “We did it in a matter of less than 24 hours. We got the design drawn, sent to the designer and then put it out for pre-orders,” Compton said. What happened next is nothing short of extraordinary. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

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Within six days, they fielded orders for more than 2,100 shirts. Demand was extraordinary, and by the end of the shirt’s first week, they raised $35,782.52. Compton states the precise amount slowly, as if to underscore just how surprised she was with the outcome. Now armed with cash-in-hand, she knew what came next. “We donated that money back to First West, through their flood relief community outreach program,” Compton said. “It felt like that was the best way to keep the money in Ouachita Parish.” Compton’s aid went beyond just the teeshirt. When she and her husband heard that the thrift shop at First West was providing clothing, free-of-charge, to individuals and families affected by the flood, they donated more than 550 shirts left over from last year’s stock of Mr. P’s. Now, people had a source for new shirts that fit. “I think it was just a God thing, because it all happened so easy,” Compton said. “The design came quick, and then everything else just fell into place.” Her story is repeated again and again, as 142 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

individuals did whatever little or however much they could to aid victims of the flood. Frenchman’s Bend resident Emma Loyless and her husband watched the waters rising and, for a time, were worried that their home might be overtaken. When it became apparent that their home would be spared, her husband set out to assist sandbagging operations and relocations. He was among the first volunteers on hand at Parkwood Apartments in West Monroe, which took flood waters almost to the ceilings of the first floor. For Loyless, though, she had a small daughter to attend, and getting out and into the waters wasn’t an option. Instead, Loyless knew there was another way she could contribute. The men and women out in the waters fighting back flooding or helping residents evacuate still had to eat. “We got together a group from our church on several occasions,” Loyless said. “We put together sandwich bags for the workers during the day.” In the evenings, members of the church unaffected by the floods prepared dinners

and hosted relief volunteers in their homes. That way, Loyless said, they didn’t have to worry about where to find dinner or what they would be eating after working all day. Loyless was thankful their home was spared, but she also understood how her blessing could be a blessing to someone else. “It helped us be able to focus on others and to help those who had taken on water,” she said. While government and private relief aid was just beginning to flow, one of the most valuable resources became the United Way’s 211 information system. As with previous major weather events, such as 2008’s Hurricane Gustav, and the parish-wide emergency response during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, 211 became a vital go-to for up-tothe-minute information, a conduit for relief work, and even played a role in securing the region one of the most rapid federal disaster declarations on record. United Way CEO Janet Durden marshalled the United Way’s resources almost immediately and very quickly the

organization filled an indispensable role. Durden is quick to give praise to those responders who were on hand from the first moment, too. “I think it’s important to acknowledge and recognize that the response from our community has been the whole community,” she said. “It’s been the non-profit community, the governmental community, and the faith community from day one.” As with previous events, she saw the United Way’s immediate role as a major resource for information--to connect and communicate, as she puts it. To that end, the United Way’s 211 service fielded more than 22,000 contacts from March 9 through the end of the month, one of the busiest periods in history. “That’s ongoing,” she added. “We’re still involved in flood response.” During that period, the organization answered more than 7,400 live phone calls, providing callers with much-needed information on road and school closures, connecting victims with assistance for food, clothing and housing, and providing guidance on how to respond to water in their homes. At the same time, the 211 system became one of the central repositories by which affected

residents could lodge damage reports for the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, or GOSHEP. When affected residents called in, they left voicemails chronicling the damage. Those damage reports were compiled, passed to GOSHEP, which then in turn passed the reports onto FEMA. “That immediate assessment of the property damage enabled our community to receive the federal declaration. sooner than we would have otherwise,” Durden said. The 211 role is ongoing, too, as Durden noted many residents have been denied FEMA assistance. “We’re urging people to appeal,” she said, adding that those affected also need to explore other federal aid programs. “We’re urging them to apply for SBA, too, because they need to take advantage of all of the resources available from the federal government.” A robocall soon followed, urging residents to apply for FEMA aid. It was a rare occurrence for 211, which almost never places such outward-bound calls. “We were really, really trying to communicate strongly that it was important for them to apply for FEMA aid,” Durden said. The deadline to apply for assistance is May 12.

The United Way’s information role continues now, more than a month after the rains that triggered the flooding. Not only are operators delivering valuable information about aid available, they’re dispensing cleanup and decontamination advice. “There is a great deal of concern that people have moved too quickly and not successfully eradicated all the mold,” Durden said. Also, the United Way continues to publish an up-to-date list of resources and information on its web site, the Daily Bulletin, which can be found at www. unitedwaynela.org/dailybulletin. And, the organization is continuing to raise funds to assist with the flood response. So far, they’ve collected some $300,000 for flood response. Right now, that money is being used to cover immediate needs, from diapers and baby wipes to disaster food boxes. The need can be as simple as a bookbag for a student, which the organization identified early on as a major area of need. “Anybody who needed a bookbag, we were able to secure a donation or use the fund,” Durden said. “We know we’re going to need significantly more to meet all the needs that are coming in the months ahead,” Durden said.

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Holton Flooring Make an Appointment Today to See Our Private Showroom

T HOLTON FLOORING AND INTERIORS LLC., WE’VE built our livelihoods on satisfied customers. From the simple to the lavish, we’ve experienced it all and we can help you every step of the way. No job is too small or too big for our knowledgeable crews. Whether it’s getting your home remodeled or building the home of your dreams, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Holton Flooring and Interiors LLC. offers a private showroom for a more personal yet professional experience. We help you through the process of flooring design, material selection and installation. Don’t hesitate to ask us a question or inquire as to why a certain process has to take place. All of our staff are friendly and knowledgeable, because we know what it’s like to be in your shoes. We want you to know just how special you and your project are to us, so we do our very best to ensure that you and your needs always come first. We even have a complimentary estimate where we’ll come out to you! Services include: flooring, custom showers, tub surrounds, kitchen back splashes, patios and fireplace surrounds. Our work is good. We promise. And behind that promise, we want you to know that we back our work with a satisfaction guarantee. We won’t stop working until you like what we’ve done. “My contractor used Holton Flooring and Interiors for the construction of my new house in July 2012. I had many questions which Micah helped put my mind at ease from the beginning. He was careful to keep my goals in mind and at the same time suggest ideas that I would not have thought of on my own. I was impressed with his creativity as a design consultant as well as the quality of work by his crew. To summarize my experience, Micah and his crew paid attention to the smallest details and completed quality work in a timely manner. I give Micah Holton my highest recommendation as a flooring and interior design consultant and installer. If anyone would like to view his work in person, please contact him, and he will set an appointment with me.” – Mark Durham Call for your appointment today! 318-789-8384 or visit holtonflooring.com.

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The Louisiana Opera Presents Mozart’s The Magic Flute The Magic Flute Will Be Presented Friday, May 20th and May 22nd

he delightful favorite The Magic Flute by Mozart will be presented by the Louisiana Opera on Friday, May 20, at 7 pm and Sunday, May 22, at 2 pm in the Emy-Lou Biedenharn Recital Hall on the University of Louisiana Monroe campus. This music and theatre masterpiece, intended for the entire family, is a great comedy with beautiful music and a new script in English. The performers are professional artists both familiar and new to the Monroe public. Returning to Monroe to sing the role of Papageno is favorite Corey McKern, who sang the title role in The Barber of Seville last June, and most recently was a great success as Billy Bigelow in the Louisiana Opera’s Carousel fundraiser last February. Also having sung a leading role in the fundraiser and now returning to perform in Flute is soprano Betsy Uschkrat, the former Miss Indiana and New Orleans resident, who will delight audiences

as Princess Pamina in The Magic Flute. The Prince Tamino is heroic tenor Tyler Smith, who has sung a number of leading roles for the LA Opera, and most recently sang an important part in the New Orleans Opera production of Dead Man Walking. Also returning in the fun-filled roles of the Three Ladies are local favorites Claire Vangelisti, Kristen Oden and Lynn Clark. The “villain” of the piece, Monostatos, is tenor Julian Jones. Vocal competition winner and LSU vocal student Margaret Ann Zentner is singing the part of Papagena. Also returning to the LA Opera stage are members of the Delta Youth Chorale, conducted by Jarrod Richey. New to the Monroe stage, playing the Queen of the Night, is Kelly Holst, singing the stratosphere-high songs that are so challenging in the opera. Ms. Holst is a new voice professor at the renowned Oklahoma City University. Joining her, performing the

venerable, fatherly role Sarastro, is John Paul White, traveling from Michigan and also singing in Monroe for the first time. Mr. White has sung the role multiple times in Germany and Switzerland during his career. The pianist for this production, once again, is the fantastic Richard Seiler; costumes are designed and coordinated by Margaret Hall; and the stage director is Mark Ross Clark. General admission tickets are $25 and are available after April 22 at Fiesta Nutrition, 1211 N. 18th Street, Monroe. Student tickets are available for $5, and there are some discount tickets available as well. A limited number of $50 VIP “golden tickets” will allow their holders preferred seating in the first three rows and admission to an “after-party” with refreshments and a chance to meet the actors.

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A traditional rite of Spring in NELA was enthusiastically observed April 8-10 at Forsythe Tennis Center in Monroe. As the opening leg of the Seafood Circuit, ShrimpFest 2016 did not disappoint, serving up generous portions of tennis, sunshine, shrimp and more. There even were whispers of revenge to be had two weeks later at CrawfishFest hosted by the MAC. Check the CHAMPIONS BOX for results and look for CrawfishFest news next month!

CHAMPIONS BOX

1st

2nd

6.0 Dbls

Belinda Crymes-Angela Evans

Cindy Phillips-April Easley

7.0 Dbls

Jadee Kirkham-Erica Norris

Sue Blackford-Rhonda Flemister

8.0 Dbls

Rebekah Anzalone-Catherine Hardy

Lee Ainsworth-Karen Oliver

Consolation

7.0 Dbls

Bob Holladay-Barry Barron

Tab Sanderlin-Bill Meche

8.0 Dbls

Andrew Parker-Morgan Breard

Jeff Anzalone-Raymond Morris

4.0 Sgls

Andrew Parker

Jerome Waller

Isaiah Wilson

Jr 10 Sgls

Max Butler

Benton Anzalone

Will Raymond

Jr Beg Sgls

Madeline Lynch

Hannah Smith

Jr Int Sgls

Brooks Anzalone

Josh Gregg

Anna Beth Allen Hayden Miller

Jr Adv Sgls

Benjamin Biggers

Will Canterbury

Jr Int Dbls

Keith Johnson-Brooks Anzalone

Conleigh Laseter-Anna Beth Allen

Jr Adv Dbls

Will Canterbury-Jacob Goudeau

Aayen Islam-Malcolm Tolsten

7.0 Mxd

Jadee Kirkham-Connor McCain

Pam Sanderlin-Tab Sanderlin

Belinda Crymes-Glenn Jenkins

8.0 Mxd

Rebekah Anzalone-Andrew Parker

Lisa Pham-Verlyn Steffenson

Jeananne McGregor-Raymond Morris

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SIMPLY LOU

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 60

Adam and Paige came along later, and my biggest regret in life is that Mama never got to be a part of their lives. How she would have adored those three. “think about a lullaby, think about a lullaby, baby close your eyes, don’t cry, think about a lullaby.” Finally, my family got to move to Vicksburg. “Pancho and Lefty” had just come out. That album was our “moving into our new house soundtrack.” Every time I hear one of those songs, I think of that happy time in our lives. And it was, for a while anyway. “if we make it through December, I know things are going to get better” Cancer walked into our lives and changed it forever. My husband, Larry, fought it for five years. An “emotional roller coaster from hell.” Five years is a long time to hear consistently bad news. You hold your breath every time they drew blood, just praying for some good news. It never came. Larry began to decline in November, 1996. He hated hospitals. All I could do for him was not let them put him in the hospital again. I opened the house to everyone who wanted to come see him. And come they did. It was “the best of times, the worst of times.” I kept life as normal as possible for him. Christmas was coming and I prayed that we could have one more with him. God gave us the most precious Christmas we ever had together. “what am I gonna do with the rest of my life?” On January 16, 1997, right at dusk, Larry quietly left us. He was

surrounded by family and his closest friends. Sounds a lot like Merle’s leaving, too. “rollin’ down hill like a snowball headed for hell” My life hasn’t been the same since Larry died. Moved to Monroe, got a job, met “Mister” and got married again. My daughter, Paige, was diagnosed with MS. I got divorced and had to start all over again. I quit a job and got fired over the phone from another job. But, the good news was, I retired. I may be alone, but, I am fine with that! My kids are grown and doing okay. Paige handles her MS well. Merle has been right there through it all with me. “the good times ain’t over for good” I did get to see Merle perform a few years ago. I thought I had “died and gone to heaven.” The Strangers opened the show, and later, a tiny man in a gray suit with matching fedora strolled out, picked up his guitar and launched into “I Think I’ll Just Sit Here and Drink.” The crowd went nuts! Merle did not disappoint the rest of the show either. I could even see his tour bus, the Silver Eagle out back! I thought Merle looked tired that night, but, by his performance, he didn’t sing like he was. Later that year, I heard he’d been diagnosed with lung cancer. He survived, but I’m sure it weakened him. He’s been ill a lot lately with pneumonia and that’s what finally took him. He was at home with his friends and family, and it sounded like it was quiet and peaceful. He had predicted he would die on his birthday and that is exactly what he did. “ I just dream and keep on being the way I am” Merle will always be with me just like my Mama is. I know what to do, happy or sad. Just listen to Merle. And, I learned this from Merle.. “if you find yourself in lock up, write a song about a jail .. don’t get mad if you lose at 21, just roll the dice and go on havin’ fun and laugh it off!”

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THE COFFEE BEAN

Fresh food and familiar faces are just two of the reasons Northeast Louisiana patrons frequent The Coffee Bean. Their delicious breakfast and lunch menu are why a devoted legion of customers keep coming back for more. ARTICLE BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE PHOTOGRAPHS BY MARTIN G MEYERS

t’s 2:00 on a Tuesday afternoon, and the hustle of the lunch rush is dying down. Lingering over dessert plates and sandwich crumbs is the late lunch crowd, the ones in no rush to leave, with an ease of familiarity that comes with one’s common lunch spot. These are the customers of The Coffee Bean, some as often as four times a week and as far back as seventeen years. They chatter quietly across a few tables, smiles on their faces, in the relaxed atmosphere of the newly renovated eatery. They value consistency. They value quality. They count on you knowing their names and their orders, and they frequent The Coffee Bean for those very reasons. The staff knows the next car in the drive-thru line is the guy who wants a coffee with two Equals, and therein one finds the comfort of being known, appreciated and recognized. The staff is longstanding, the food is fresh, and the environment is clean, without exception, every day. And this keeps bringing people back to 2501 Broadmoor Boulevard. Co-owners, Kim Verhagen and Ann Genusa Williamson chose to combine friendship and business fourteen years ago, and the decision has served them well. Having met years prior when Kim worked for Ann’s family at Genusa’s, the two converged with the intention of Kim being in the kitchen and Ann working the front; nowadays it’s the opposite. As the business has evolved, so have the women’s roles, both filling in the gaps when necessary. Kim credits their communication and organization, both respecting the business and each other. Ann knows restaurants, having been raised in one all her life. Kim had worked all aspects of the business from “bartender, to waitress, to hostess, to sous chef – all but washing dishes.” It’s the respect for the business, the dedication to the profession and the commitment to doing it all well that sets The Coffee Bean apart. When she was eight years old, Kim said she would be “an English teacher or a chef.” She ended up doing both. After attending LSU and eventually graduating from ULM, Kim briefly taught middle school English before a friend suggested chef school in Denver. She moved to Boulder and attended The Colorado Institute of Art alongside friend Elise Wiggins, a now award-winning Executive Chef at Panzano in Colorado. At chef school, Kim studied different cultures and fell in love with authentic Mexican food, claiming her favorite was Zolo Grill, a Tex-Mex spot featuring fresh, not heavy ingredients. It was on these frequent brunch dates with her friends where she was first

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BAKE

DG OOD SM AD E

FR ES

introduced to the fish taco. She learned flavors during a two-year stint in San Antonio, and an emphasis on freshness and flavor and quality ingredients is what she vowed to return to Monroe. While working at The Garden District Café back home, a friend suggested Kim “transform” The Coffee Bean, a business Bambi Starnes had opened two years before, primarily featuring muffins, coffee and bagels. Growing up in Monroe, Kim felt the town needed a place for good, quality soup, wraps and entrée salads. Never wanting to work in a cubicle, Kim knew the demands of a small business, and she knew the restaurant business particularly. She didn’t want to work at night, so she decided to open for just breakfast and lunch and still have a life. 150 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

She aimed small. But gradually, her small business venture grew. Gradually she added cinnamon rolls and casseroles; she bought a freezer, and then two. Then she added another employee, and then another, and before long they began to outgrow the 18th street location. onnie Sampognaro, one of Kim’s best customers offered to build The Coffee Bean a new location on Broadmoor and let Kim rent it. Bing Bishop would build it, and Kim could design it, but Kim needed help. And in came Ann. Kim trusted her; they both knew the business. They knew each other within the business, and Ann craved something of her own. It was an ideal match, and the timing was

right. Connie eventually told her husband, “I want you to sell them the land. Give them the corner, because it’s better for a restaurant, and sell it to them for what we paid for it.” Together, Kim and Ann designed their building and formed an official partnership. Fourteen years later, neither regrets the decision. Rarely hearing a complaint, and overflowing with compliments, they’re proud of what they’ve built, of how the business has evolved. They’re not afraid of change, and even less fearful of competition. Ann’s mother told them, “You’re always going to have competition – do it your way, the best way you can.” They stand behind their products, always fresh. People rave about the fruit, asking where they get it. The secret it simple; it’s cut up fresh every day. Most rec-

ipes are Kim’s and her Mom’s; Ann’s family recipes have a home at Genusa’s. The customers have been coming for years, the same faces. Ones that didn’t have kids, now have grown kids, and Kim enjoys interacting with them, hearing their stories, knowing their preferences. If they tried a dish for the first time at “The Bean,” chances are they think it’s the best. And “when you’re seeing the same faces, you’re doing something right.” Kim’s fondness for all things food began early on before her restaurant work. She credits Piccola, a woman who worked first for her grandmother and then for her mother, a grand total of fifty years with Kim’s family. While Piccola would cook dinner for Kim’s family, she would watch and talk to her. She liked the ease and comfort of the kitchen,

and in return for the company, Piccola would share her secrets, “the common sense kitchen stuff.” Kim’s brother would frequently like to “taste from the pot.” Once after a repeated mistake, Kim’s mother poured the whole dish out that had been cooking all day. Kim is the same; cleanliness is essential, and the respect for the dish and the creation and the pot and the process is most important. She’s carried that respect to the Bean’s kitchen. Like today, Tuesdays feature soul food. Today’s special was hamburger steak, rice and gravy, purple-hulled peas and cornbread. And yesterday the ladies patted out sixty hamburger steaks, and they never have to argue their freshness. The customers know. It’s what sets The Coffee bean apart. Sure, it would be easier to have the fruit cut

up ahead of time or get the soup in a bag, but they won’t sacrifice freshness, believing there is no substitute. Wednesdays are always Mexican. Fifty quarts of chicken tortilla soup will be gone in three hours, a fan favorite. And while the tortilla and the tomato basil soup are the most popular, they also have about thirty-five other soups rotating on the menu. They sell 400 pounds of chicken salad per week, boiling their own chicken and using the broth in the soups. Friday mornings one can often find men floating from table to table, regardless of age or profession, both pharmacy reps and prayer groups. The regulars expect greatness, because they’ve always gotten it. Their breakfasts are superior, because they “crack the egg, nothing premade.” No frozen sausages or mushrooms, pancakes WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

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and grits are made to order. And people have unique requests, all accommodated and frequently remembered for years to come. The irony is in the name. Kim only started drinking coffee two years ago, and Ann still doesn’t. The owners and staff affectionately refer to it as “The Bean,” though the original owner was the first in Monroe to feature cappuccino and espresso. The orders and deliveries continue to grow, sometimes up to four before seven am. They’re trusted with large orders and are seeing more every year. The girls arrive at 6 a.m. each morning and begin to prepare. The staff consists of girls who often begin in high school and work through masters’ degrees. The holidays are often busy, sometimes cooking family meals and placing directly into family dishes, none the wiser. And while the consistency is in the food, the willingness to evolve keeps the place relevant. Just this past season, the ladies hand made 900 king cakes over an eight-week period, a relatively new venture for them. If they make one on Monday and it hasn’t sold by Tuesday at 2:00, Kim takes it home to a neighbor; “nothing has a chance to get old.” This past October, Sandy McMillan designed the remodel. It was time, and even Ann, the more frugal one, agreed. Kim admits Ann “always lets me have my way.” Ann wanted a minimalist design, while Kim was a collector. The Coffee Bean had often featured Kim’s collections on the walls. And in the spirit of change, Kim let Ann have her vision. Sandy redesigned the restaurant with a modern traditional, white look with more booth seating, a more functional flow and the potential for an eventual expansion. Kim credits Sandy’s talent, “being firm with color choices,” much like Kim had always been with Ann. It was amusing for Ann to see Kim having “met her match” in Sandy. Both couldn’t be happier with the remodel and Sandy’s attention to detail. She even picked out the glass vases to hold the spoons! The ladies are considering a patio and kitchen expansion and will use Sandy again. She knew what they wanted, and she delivered. Outside of The Bean, Ann has Genusa’s with her family, and Kim has an estate sale business with her Mom. Both are strong in their faith, charitable, and always try to do the right thing. They carry on those traditions outside the walls of Broadmoor again focusing on consistency, personalization and service.

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Chicken Fajita Wrap

BayouKidz: Mother’s Day Continued From Page 34

e lose our cool. We wake up on the wrong side of the bed. We get stressed over work or money or what color to paint the kitchen, and oftentimes take it out on our children. We are human. But as a mother, I want to make that same kind of impression on my children, one that will be compelling enough to stay with them all of their lives, and that is that I am capable of saying, “I’m sorry.” Of course, it’s important to be at all their games, or plugged in with their school activities or hosting and cooking for the weekend friends, but to me, as equally as important is the fact that they see me (and my husband) as two parents who love them unconditionally, and are just doing our best to help them navigate what should be idyllic years,

but more times than not, are difficult and unpredictable. And sometimes, even when we try our best, when we are tired or irritable or worried, we make mistakes, too. As we move towards the holiday that celebrates the role of motherhood, I would encourage my “mom” readers to spend a little time, on your back porch, on your drive to work, or sitting in your big comfy chair, reflecting on your own parenting role. Who is your role model? What did they teach you? Do you ever look in the mirror and see your mom (or dad), even though you swore you would never be “that person?” For me, there is no amount of money, no level of success that can replace the value of having had parents that weren’t perfect, but just did their best, with lots of love, lots of patience, lots of prayer, and of course, the occasional apology. Now that I am in the “slap dab middle” (as Bitsy

would say) of my parenting years, I probably wouldn’t get an A+ for my parenting skills per se, but I know I would get an E+ for effort. My son likes to say “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” I don’t think I was born a “talented mother,” but I work hard at it, just as many of you do, and hopefully that hard work will influence my children to put the same effort into their parenting responsibilities one day. As it probably is for many of our parents, that will be a full-circle moment in my life. Happy Mother’s Day to my lovely mother, and to all the wonderful mothers who make up the BayouLife community. May your day be filled with love, family and reflection.

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FASH ION

PHOTO G R A PH Y B Y M A RT I N G M EY E R S | HA I R & M A K E U P B Y M E KA R E L I F OR D

Maybe it’s the obsession with form and the body, but fashion and ballet are the perfect pas de deux. BayouLife invites you to a performance like no other on one of north Louisiana’s most storied stages, Shreveport’s Strand Theatre, where Twin City Ballet Company ballerina Krislynne Flowers jetés into Spring wearing area boutiques most ethereal offerings.

HEMLINE MONROE Perfect for this summer’s music festivals, this headdress is sure to make a statement. We love it paired with this gorgeous fringe dress.

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P OIN T E

ERINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S AT TIC Krislynne looks elegant in this blush-colored dress from Erinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Attic in Ruston. This figure-flattering dress features a sculpted skirt and lace top.

BEEHIVE This outfit is anything but behind-thescenes. We love the simple white tank paired with a blush-colored, layered tulle skirt. A simple necklace with tassel and charm embellishments complete the look.

HERRINGSTONEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S This vintage-inspired jumpsuit features a off-the-shoulder neckline with gently shirred cap sleeves. Wide-leg trousers and a fluttery floral print give it a feminine touch.

IF THE CROWN FITS Look your best at the gym this summer in these black work-out pants with sheer cutouts. A floral print sports bra and orange tank is paired for a chic look.

MR. Pâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TEES This Eagle Pride Tank from Mr. Pâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tees is printed in red, white and blue on a heather black super soft tank. Featuring a vintage fee, this tank was designed and printed in Louisiana.

K-SERA BOUTIQUE This two-piece outfit from K-Sera steals the show. The cropped top features a super flirty open back and the high-rise shorts flutter below.

ROSE BOUTIQUE This simple racerback dress by Flax has deep shoulder straps, a scoop neckline and deep side slits. This perfect maxi is accessorized with layers of pearl necklaces.

ELEVEN 26 Dance the night away in this stylish open-back dress with sculpted skirt. We adore the simple neckline and feminine floral print.

How an interior designer is combining her eye for details with her daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s marketing savvy to take the custom design experience into the digital millennium. article by Michael DeVault product photography by Henry McCoy portrait by Martin G Meyers

hen Mary Katherine Russell graduated from LSU, she found herself tempted away from returning home to Ruston by an internship she couldn’t turn down. Southern Living wanted her, and for a young woman from northeastern Louisiana, the opportunity to work for the storied company was too much to pass up, even if it was just for an internship. The distance also meant being away from her mother, Ruston interior designer Connie Howard, for longer than Russell had anticipated. But, again, it was Southern Living, and the opportunity was too tempting. So she took the position and packed for Birmingham. “It turned into a full-time job,” said Mary Katherine, who impressed her Southern Living bosses so much that they offered her a full-time job in the company’s products division. “I was there until a few years ago, until I went out on my own and started doing PR.” About the time she began to make the transition to her own firm, Russell found another longing. She wanted to do something with her mother, something that might help put Howard’s 26 years of design experience in front of a wider audience. She began exploring ways in which she might help Howard grow a following on the Internet. “Everything is moving online,” Russell said. “People are always asking if they can order unusual accessories through a website.” Within short order, the LivLuxe concept was born. At once a design site for those looking for interior design ideas and a marketplace for that hard-to-find and quite often one-of-a-kind home accessory, LivLuxe.com provides customers the interior designer experience from the convenience of an iPad or a quick browse during the lunch hour. With more than a hundred items in stock at any time, LivLuxe. com provides customers with options that they won’t find in department stores. The story of the products on LivLuxe begins at market. A licensed interior designer with a thriving and popular

practice in Ruston, Howard has access to dealers-only areas of the major markets in Dallas, New Orleans, and Atlanta. These are the backrooms where accessory designers and architects tout the next wave, the newest products, and that single hot item that makes a room. These are the places where the LivLuxe experience begins, and for the discerning buyer, they’ll recognize that what they’re getting

is signature Connie Howard, those kinds of items that capture her imagination. “I’m always looking for things that have a little edge to them, things that aren’t expected or typical,” said Howard. “When I see that, whether it’s in the colors and color combinations or in the design elements or materials, I’m drawn to that.” But don’t be too quick to think that Howard only buys items she likes. For a seasoned professional, liking is a relative concept. The pieces she selects speak more to her experience with the clients she’s worked with than to any personal aesthetic that might shine through. “I don’t think my design is driven by what I like, so much as it is driven by the people I’m working with, what they like and those desires and needs others have expressed to me,” she said. That being the case, she still has a

tough eye to please. She laughs, recounting the dozens of times she’ll bring a new piece back from market and lament her dislike of it to her husband. In response, he’s instituted a de facto 24-hour rule. “He says give it 24 hours, then I’ll like it,” she said, adding he’s almost always right. “Sometimes it takes 48 hours, and sometimes it takes other people coming in and saying how much they really like it.” This attention to detail, to design and to uniqueness is one of the main calling cards of the endeavor. The LivLuxe aesthetic isn’t about mass market. Instead, it’s about creating that custom feel for a client. “We don’t want our items to feel cookie-cutter,” said Russell, who notes the prevalence of expensive, if repetitive, offerings in Restoration Hardware and Pottery Barn. That’s not the audience or aesthetic LivLuxe is seeking. Russell thinks it’s also not what most homeowners are looking for, either. “When we’re at home, we want to feel unique.” She singles out a line of pillows they recently added. The pillows are popular, and they’re not something one can find at Target, either. “You can get throw pillows anywhere,” said Russell. “But these are gorgeous, they’re terrific and you can’t get them anywhere else.” That’s because of those dealers-only rooms at market. Inside, working handin-hand with the designers and architects responsible for each product, Howard pairs custom fabrics with custom designs. What may seem like a straight-forward process is anything but, according to Russell. “They show us a hundred fabrics, and then we pick three or four. Then, they make the order especially for us,” she said. That same story is repeated time and again, throughout the site’s offerings. Fine art and mirrors for walls complement the selection of small chests and bookcases. Each piece is of the highest quality, underscored by LivLuxe’s return policy for all products save custom orders. That’s partially in recognition of the individual nature of home décor. “People aren’t seeing it, and they aren’t touching it,” said Russell. “They’ve got to be able to return it, unless it’s custom-made.” WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

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On the custom front, LivLuxe is one of the few online portals where clients can order custom draperies. Selecting fabrics, pleats and backing, the site generates the quote and allows the client to either opt for a fabric swatch and a quote, or to place their order online. “We all know that everyone is shopping online,” Russell said. But what LivLuxe offers that other retailers don’t is Howard’s talent. Howard graduated with an MFA in interior design from Louisiana Tech. She worked outside of the Louisiana market for ten years before deciding to return. That was almost 30 years ago, and she’s built a thriving practice in Ruston at Woodvale Interiors. During the years, she’s learned what people want and how to create just that right pop for a customer. For users on the web site, the duo will even coordinate putting items together, sketching out how they play well and how they might be arranged in a space. They will also take elements on their site and customize those elements for clients. Russell explains. “If someone wanted something specific, saw a pillow on the web site and said they really wanted that pillow in red, we would work with the vendor, find a fabric and get the pillow,” she said. “We do that with textile products and our small furniture pieces.” Howard’s designs seem to play well with Russell’s marketing savvy. Which was kind of the point. Russell had wanted a project she could work with her mother on, something they could share and build together. LivLuxe has worked well for them, and Howard is quick to give praise to Russell. “She understands the demographic, the technical and marketing aspects. I just know pretty things when I see them,” Howard said with a laugh. Spend any time with this mother-daughter matchup, and two things become immediately apparent. They’re talented, and they’re having a ball. One of the benefits of frequent trips to market is the ability to stock a limited number of items of high quality and unique design, as well as the company’s ability to respond quickly to market demands. For example, in lighting right now, they’re seeing a huge demand for outdoor lanterns. “We have them in gold, in rope and glass,” Russell said. “They’re really unique, and they start around $28.” Another popular item was a gold-leaf dinnerware collection for the holidays. Made 166 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

What LivLuxe offers that other retailers don’t is Howard’s talent.

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by an artist in Birmingham, where they run the site from, the dinnerware proved so successful it’ll return soon to LivLux. “It’s gorgeous, and it’s actually made by an artist right here in Birmingham,” Russell said. Three years in the making, the site has been online for a little more than a year. During that time, it has evolved from a high-end décor site to an affordable outpost for the discerning homemaker. When they first launched LivLuxe.com in November of 2014, Howard and Russell were decidedly targeting the more expensive side of custom décor. “We started out at the high end of eCommerce home décor,” Russell said. Over they year and a half they’ve been operating, though, they’ve moderated those costs. “We’ve really brought it down to the middle.” While it’s true that many of their furniture pieces and textile products can be expensive, the average order is far more modest. Table linens range from under $9 a piece to just over $20. Serving pieces for the dining room are there, too, with pieces such as an abstract acrylic and gold bowl for $60 and sea-life themed serving bowls for up to $180. Russell points out that the average order includes two to three items and runs about $250. In other words, it’s about the same as a trip to Target or a similarly priced mainline retailer. Yet, what the customer gets in return is anything but mainline. Decorative butterfly cachepots serve as a great decorative container or as a planter. They pair quite nicely with some of the other decorative containers on the site. Another popular grouping are the Waylande Gregory collection, and LivLuxe is one of the best sources for one-of-a-kind Waylande pieces. A gold elephant balances an orange matte bowl on his back. Finished in a high-quality matte finish and 22-kt gold, this is the kind of statement piece that will have company going to the candy dish time and again. And that’s the point of LivLuxe, to bring that special level of something to a home, whether it’s in a decorative container, a funky collection of cocktail napkins or a brilliant chandelier. For the people who’ve been trafficking their site since it opened, the secret is out. Affordable luxury is just one visit to LivLuxe away. “We’re not mass market,” Russell said. “We don’t want to be.” 168 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

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Annual Spring Home Tour

On April 8th, Leigh Ann and Stacey Goff opened their beautiful home to sponsors of The Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum’s Annual Spring Home Tour and Luncheon. This year, author and linen magnate, Jane Scott Hodges, was the guest speaker and attended the night’s event with family and friends of the Children’s Museum. Museum director, Melissa Saye and husband, John, were greeting guests at the door. Guests mingled while enjoying delicious hors d’ouevres and wine and were able to meet Hodges before the next day’s fundraising event.

On the BayouScene 1 Leigh Ann and Stacey Goff 2 Laura Marchelos and Virginia Haddad 3 John Kennedy and Kristin Brown 4 John Saye, Linda Holyfield, Melissa Saye and Joe Holyfield 5 F rench and Paige Smith, Melinda and Morris Mintz 6 Stephanie Perry and Laura Daniel 7 Mark and Rhonda Neal 8 Terry and Linda Reeves 9 Joey Haddad, Lucy and John Shackleford 10 S ue Sartor, Robin Fincher and Carter Mills 11 J ane Scott Hodges and Sue Sartor 12 G eorge Cummings and Shirish Lal 13 Ginny Yatco and Brenda Marsala 14 C harvie and William Gordon, Mike and Jan Clay 15 Catherine Mills and Jane Scott Hodges 16 Sarah Brewer and Nan Cummings

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Spring Open House Eddleman Dental and Hopkins Dermatology hosted a Spring Open House on March 17th to showcase the best our area has to offer in Cosmetic Dentistry and Dermatology. Guests were invited to tour both facilities and hear about the latest procedures in both clinics. Cheese and wine were served to celebrate Dr. Mary Kathryn Criglerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new position at Eddleman Dental.

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Mary Kathryn McGuffee and Julia Whittington Dr. Janine Hopkins and Andrea Robinson R enee Schneider and Dr. Mary Kathryn Crigler D r. Mary Kathryn Crigler, Dr. Lane Eddleman and Dr. Emily Cassis 5D r. Emily Cassis, Dr. Janie Hopkins and Laura Little 6 The Staff of Eddleman Dental 7 Janet Fortenberry and Karen Mayfield 8A llie Lafitte and Addie Reeves 9 Ted Schneider and David Crigler 10 Andrea Robinson and Jennifer Brown

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Off the Wall Fundraiser The 7th Annual Off the Wall Fundraiser was held on April 1 at the Masur Museum of Art. Hosted by the Twin City Foundation to benefit the museum, OTW is the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier art auction featuring an excellent selection of affordable art by artists in our community and all over the country. Delicious food catered by Chef Pat Nolan was served as guests listened to live music by Monty Russell and General Patterson. Proceeds from Off the Wall support exhibitions and educational programs at the Masur Museum of Art. As the largest visual arts museum in northeast Louisiana, the Masur Museum of Art is vital to providing quality visual art experiences to the community of Northeast Louisiana.

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Evie Stewart and Susan Pell A lexa, Mac, Violet and Ben Hickey G aeb Cardinale and Brad Arender K athi Schendle, June Solomon and Judy Moore T om and Sue Nicholson, Nat and Stephanie Smith, Paulen Luttgeharm 6 Rob and Leigh Anderson 7 S ylvia Masur Thompson, Clint Downing and Moira Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor 8 Steve Mintz and Johnette Sellar 9D aniel and Emily Cassis, David and Mary Kathryn Crigler, Andree and Lane Eddleman 10 E mily Jane Cruz, Kelsey McCrary and Christi Magee 11 Ashley and Frederick West 12 Chip and Lila Strode 13 Melanie and Jeff Douthit 14 Mead and Felicia Hardwick 15 Kevin and Kathryn Williams 16 Mary Alice Carpenter and Wanda Stewart 17 Will and Sara Barham 18 Morris and Melinda Mintz, Robert and Nell Seegers 19 Margaret Barker and Debbie Luffey 20 Jessica and Joey Slaughter 21 Rusty and Jeanne Barham 22 Heath and Jennifer Lord 23 Gayle Condrey, Claire Gordon and Edna Gattle 24 Trey and Sandy Gimber 25 Ron and Cissy Ellis 26 Sylvia Masur Thompson, Charles and Janet Masur 27 Diane Paschall and Regina Wood 28 Carol Anne Barnes and Stacey Thomas 29 Annette McDonald and Katie Minyard 30 Michael and Christie Echols 31 Claire Gordon, Evie Stewart and Gregory Hudgins

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Ruston Maker’s Fair The Spring Ruston Makers Fair was held on April 9, 2016. This was the second installment of this new event. The fair grounds on the corner of Louisiana Ave. and Monroe St. were alive with the sound of music, kids playing and the smell of tacos. It was a great success with 60+ makers from all over the area selling jewelry, woodwork, metal rings, teepees and much more. With Mexican food from Ruston’s favorite taco truck, Tacos The Guero, sno cones from Kona Ice and other goodies prepared by several makers, fair goers got a hefty taste of Ruston. Day Old Blues Records, who just opened a new shop in downtown Ruston, provided the tunes to set the mood. Playing everything from Alabama Shakes to Led Zeppelin and The Carpenters, that little record player didn’t stop grooving.

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On the BayouScene 1 S tephanie Akers, Ellanore and Hannah Buxton, Stephanie Dugard 2 Lauren Quinn and Daniel Ward 3K aylin, Sarah and Sandy Lee 4 Karan and Hunter Eddy and Sara Molchany 5 Kathy Crowder and Kristi Hardaway 6 J oshua Mitchell, Victoria Smith, Alexandra Milford and Derek Amaya 7K aitlyn Foster and Sarah Goodjion 8 Chelsea Washington and Cristina Edwards 9 Dalton Williams and Caressa Winkler 10 J essica, Ben and Jenny Bennett 11 L ana Johnson, Kathy Hendricks 12 A cquanette Mitchell and Teagan Leblanc 13 Paula and Tony Osborn 14 Malia Munn and Lauren Hampton 15 Hannah and Mary Peshoff 16 A manda Quimby, Brittany Ramsey, Alissa Russell and Elizabeth Earl Lewis 17 Anna and Katherine Morris

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Spring Fling at Croswell’s Boutique 139 On Saturday, March 19th Croswell’s Boutique 139 hosted it’s 2nd Annual Spring Open House. Guests were handed an Easter egg full of discounts at the door to prepare them for a fun day of shopping with friends and family. The event created immense excitement and the Open House was a huge success. With a line outside the door before the event started, more than 100 visitors attended the Spring Fling before noon that day. The new Spring arrivals were a major hit. Caron and the Croswell’s girls would like to thank everyone for their support!

On the BayouScene 1 Carol Jones, Kinsley and Emily Fulmer 2 Kasadee Armfield, Della Bright and Ashlynn Armfield 3H eather, Korben, Jase and Blake Johnston 4 S arah Daniels and Laken Blakely 5M ason and Laura Roger 6 Billy and Ruthie Bozeman 7 Tori Simmons and Brianna Jacobs 8 Linda Reynolds and Angela Bryan 9C aron Johnson and Kelly Coston 10 Georgia and Kenneth White 11 B ella Willis and Anna Beth Daniels 12 S helby Blackmon and Linda Parrott 13 Debbie Herrington and Vicki Nelson 14 Reagan and Suzan Savage 15 Deborah Boyd and Lynda Croswell 16 Teresa and Carlie Shockley 17 Leighann Merrill, Lauren Barlow and Robyn Merrill

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ULM School of Construction

On April 8th, The School of Construction Management at the University of Louisiana at Monroe and The IAC (Industry Advisory Council) hosted its 50th anniversary. All program graduates and their spouses, the faculty and administration, both current and previous, gathered to show its Respect for the Past, Pride in the Present and Vision for the Future. Among those honored at the event were Thurman Potts and Associate Constructor Meredith Scelfo. Larry Favalora was awarded Distinguished Alumnus Award for 2015 and Don Beach and Dr. Daniel Dupree were awarded Constructors of the Year for 2015.

On the BayouScene 1 Dr. Ed Brayton, Thurman Potts and Dan Dupree 2 Aaron and Megan Marsters, Jerry and Crystal Brasher 3 Mike Armstrong, Trent Livingston and Adam Seiter 4 Steve and Dawn Hallman, Angela and Don Greenland 5 Kathy and David Dumas 6 Jill and James Reneau 7 Larry and Pam Favalora 8 Barbara and Jim Bailey 8 9 Charles and June Poole 10 Lillie and Steve Traxler 11 Trey Folk and Wes Dorman 12 A ngela and Damon Beasley 13 Keith Roberts and Mark Castellano

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McKinney Honda Open House A fun time of shopping and socializing was had by all at McKinney Honda’s 31st Annual Spring Open House. People came from near and far to find deals on everything in the store, from lawn mowers, 4-wheelers and hunting equipment and stylish apparel. McKinney’s Open House has truly turned into a premiere event in Ruston as Origin Bank was on hand to cook hot dogs and with all of the fixings. Refreshments were available, and live music entertained the crowd. Don’t worry if you missed this Open House, McKinney Honda’s Fall Open House take place in August – just in time for hunting season!

On the BayouScene

1 Carson, Paula, Grace and Emily Trammell 2 Laura Beach, Elizabeth Lewis and Chad Gunn 3 Sarah Horsley and Lauren Caldwell 4 David Patterson, Tyler Thompson and Mike Bourgeois 5 Christine Payne and Clothilda Payne 6 Sheree McCann and Donna Ott 7 Colby Oliver and Emily Rawls 8 Jack Cummings and Tommy Garrison 9 Lorie and Chad Hamlin 10 Jim Spillers and Erin Rogers 11 Joe and Lauren Hood 12 J J Duncan, Wes Brown and Jake Pendergras 13 R ichie McKinney, John McKinney and Brady McKinney 14 M ichelle Odgen and Marilyn Rawls 15 L arry Scriber and Josh Calver 16 Brian Hilton, Tim Colvin and Shauna Kircus 17 April McMullen and Lorelei Rodgers

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5th Annual EGGfest Lincoln Outdoor Living celebrated their 5th annual EGGFest on Saturday, March 19. The focus of the day was The Big Green Egg, which was showcased on multiple levels. People with a passion for The Big Green Egg, otherwise known as “eggheads” were encouraged to sign up to demonstrate cooking on over two dozen eggs. A kid’s cooking contest was held as well. Guests enjoyed good food and great deals on items in the store.

On the BayouScene 1 2 3 4 5

Jim Davison and James Davison Tanner and Jeremy Clark K andy Little and Andrew Maestrini H eather Shaw, Jana Beck and Anna Beth Brinson S helley Clark, Sarah Margaret Davison and Margaret Davison 6 J ill Gaudet and Cooper, Gabe, Hayden, Peyton and Jana Beck 7 Tim Shaw and Dale Boehm 8A aron Taylor and Preslie Neely 9 Gantt Graham and Vincent Vega 10 Kathy Bridges and Madeline Chreene

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THE HOME OFFICE Carving Out a Workspace That Makes Sense article by Michael Devault

rowing up, I spent a lot of time with my great grandfather, Papaw. A retired maintenance supervisor from NLU and a locksmith by trade, he was also an Assemblies of God minister, who spent much of his work day at home, tucked away in the office he had built on the back of his Gerald Street home. It was the 1980s, and, for the most part, individuals who worked from home were a rarity. But these days, with telecommuting, voice-over-IP, and an onslaught of newly selfemployed individuals, working from home is fast becoming the new normal for millions of Americans. In fact, in the 2010 Census, almost ten percent of the workforce acknowledged they work from home at least one day a week, while a significant portion of those surveyed report never going into their employers’ offices. In the six years since, the number has almost doubled. That’s more than 20 million Americans who don’t stray too far from their bedrooms to earn a living. An office at home is hardly a new concept. The home office came into being during the crush of midcentury modern design in the early 1960s, but even then, it was more typically the room where Dad retreated to smoke a cigar, listen to the game, and get away from the children. He had to have somewhere to hang all of those salesman of the quarter plaques, after all, and Mom wasn’t about to have them in the living room. But today, more than ever the home office is an important component of the modern home, and knowing how to carve out that workspace is an important part of separating work from the rest of your life. Whether you’re working from home full time 180 MAY 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

or just spending a few extra hours completing financial reports for your supervisor, having a dedicated space for work will help you focus and keep the temptations at bay. Here are a few tips for establishing the perfect home office. 1. Space is too valuable to waste. Consider the amount of time you spend working at home versus other activities you take part in around the house. Make lists of those activities and keep track of them. If you don’t entertain regularly, chances are you can forego that formal living room and separate den in favor of a single public space. If the family always eats around the dining table, a breakfast nook catchall might be just the perfect place for a desk, a chair, and a small filing cabinet. You don’t have to dedicate an entire room to the home office, but how much space you devote to your workspace should be driven both by how much you use it and how much you will miss that space’s other use. A good rule of thumb is: if you use the workspace twice as much as the other space, the other space is expendable. 2. Get away from distractions. A blaring television in the background might not bother you when you’re cooking dinner, but it’s an unwelcomed guest on that conference call with a supplier in Seattle. Being away from distractions helps you focus and increase productivity. It may be that all you need is a nice corner desk in the guest bedroom, a closed door, and a bit of white noise to fulfill your needs for a home office. Also, getting away from the distractions

of daily life will help reduce stress levels, which is, after all, one of the biggest benefits of working from home. Wherever it is you work, peace is important. 3. Out of sight, out of mind. Avoiding putting your home office in a heavily trafficked area of the house isn’t just about eliminating distractions, it’s a helpful way that you can compartmentalize life a little better. At the end of the day, you’re far less likely to obsess over the TPS Report cover sheet if you can’t see the TPS Report on the corner of the desk while you’re binge watching My Little Pony with the kids. In fact, setting the work-living boundary is one of the biggest challenges reported by home-based workers, and most corporations who allow telecommuting offer training and tips for minimizing the bleed-over. 4. Home office means office furniture. It’s hard to dismiss the psychological effects of work furniture. Industrial designers have jobs for a reason, after all, and Herman Miller became a household name thanks in part to the cubicle. Don’t make the mistake of converting the dining table into a desk. Chances are, you won’t effectively trick your brain into thinking it’s a workspace, and, consequently, productivity will suffer. Instead, get a good, solid work desk from an office surplus outlet and a professional, quality chair. Don’t shove files in a dresser, but use a good filing cabinet instead. You can find plenty of attractive, home-appropriate office outfitting, so that guest bedroom doesn’t end up looking like the writer’s room at Sterling Cooper.

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Eye Love Mom If your mom is stylish and full of grace, she will love these Tiffany & Co. glasses from Haik Humble Eye Center. They will complete the look of any outfit and she will love chic from head to toe.

Beads for the Best Show your mom how much you love her with this tri-color beaded necklace, featuring a gold, ornate cross from HerringStone’s. This is a stylish and sentimental gift for this Mother’s Day!

The Power of 2. The power players of skincare have united. Revision skincare now offers two antioxidant superstars for day and night. Vitamin C and Retinol are here to save the day, giving you around-theclock radiant skin. Availlable at MD Minerals inside Hopkins Dermatology in Monroe. Dirty Duty This canvas laundry bag from Material Things is the chicest way to send the grad off in style as they tote laundry around the dorm. It even has instructions on it in case they forget what mom taught them!

Lip Perfection Ultimate Face® Marula Oil Balm - was created to provide a long lasting protective layer on the lips while retaining moisture and providing key anti-aging benefits, all in a lightweight formula. We also added a subtle hint of color to brighten the lips without needing another lip product. Find this and other products at Rain the Salon in Monroe.

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Light the Night These candles are the perfect addition to any mom’s porch, patio or even an indoor setting. The Patio Place has an assortment of these raw edge, concrete candle holders that makes a beautiful gift.

Cross My Heart This vintage rose cut diamond cross is available at Randy Smith Jewelers and will be the perfect way to show mom that you love and appreciate her.

Future So Bright, Gotta Wear Shades These Krewe du Optic shades from Hemline Monroe are the ultimate grad gift. Featuring gold mirrored lenses and 24K gold plated hardware, the Conti glasses will send your favorite grad off in style.

A Day at the Spa Is there a better gift for Mom than a spa day? A gift certificate from Spa Nouvelle in Monroe will surely make her smile. The service includes a massage, a facial, a spa pedicure and a light lunch in between.

For the Birds Lincoln Outdoor Living carries a vast selection of feeders for the avid bird watcher in your life. From sleek and modern to gorgeous hand blown glass creations, they have several to choose from.

Chic College Style If you know a grad that will be moving into their first apartment soon, these chic glass decanters are a great graduation gift from Sleepy Hollow Furniture and Mattress. They add a pop of mature style that they will appreciate for years to come.

A Walk in Her Shoes If you have a stylish mom and want to get her something she actually wants, then stop by K-Sera Boutique and pick up these two-toned sandals. Just be sure to check her size!

Pretty Planning in Pink Give mom the gift of organization with this pretty pink bound planner from Sue Paperie. This planner has plenty of space to jot reminders, color coded stickers and flags and more, making it perfect for the mom on the go.

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Put School Spirit on the Map These limited edition signed and numbered prints are available at Haven and make the perfect gift for any grad headed to college. Available from various popular college destinations, each prints depicts the campus and its landmarks and traditions.

Whoop It Up Mr. P’s Tees has a new Whooping Crane design that honors the protected bird that was once endangered in the 1950s. Any mom of any age would love this perfectly pink shirt that pays homage to a Louisiana favorite.

A Different Kind of Bubbly Give the ultimate gift of relaxation with this chic Jacuzzi tub from Azure Pools and Spas. They can order the size and style that would work best in your mom’s bathroom or outdoor area.

Food for Thought Key Millwork & Supply provides the perfect gift option for moms of any age. A top-of-the-line blender by Wolf Gourmet, with your choice of red, black and stainless steel knobs, is something she’ll appreciate and can use.

Proud Parents Nothing makes a parent more proud than watching their “little one” receive their hard earned diploma. Capture that memory by having their certificate framed by The Frame Place in West Monroe. Owned by Staci Albritton Mitchell of Albritton Photography, they carry a large selection of styles to choose from for the perfect look.

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Timeless with a Twist This necklace makes for a great gift for Mom or a Grad. A cluster of pearls hanging from a leather strand is perfect for every-day wear or a night on the town. Find these and more at Eleven 26 in West Monroe.

Just Relax We love Lollia products and scents. Woodstock Furniture Revival in Monroe has gift sets for Mom that are sure to please. Lollia Relax provides moisture-rich bliss made with the finest ingredients. Stop by and view their great selection of scents for the home and for you.

Pillows Galore It’s no secret that Fabulous Fabric in Monroe has the largest selection of fabrics in town. Stop by anytime to check out their pillows from subtle to bold, animal print to gold. Make mom happy with the gift of home décor.

Savor Her Any mother that spends any time in the kitchen will love one of these garlic or onion savers from Thurman’s Food Factory and Gifts. There are several different ones to choose from and are the ideal way to store food on the countertop or fridge without it going bad!

Back to your Roots The Root Collective partners with makers in Guatemala to produce handcrafted shoes from leather and handwoven textiles. These adorable flats can be found at Erin’s Attic in Ruston. They make a great gift for Mom or the graduate in your life.

A Pearl of Wisdom Show mom how much you care with the gift of the world’s finest pearls by Mikimoto. This special boxed set include a perfectly matched bracelet and stud earrings. Only at Hollis & Company Jewelers.

A Traditional Gift An English Majolica adorned with Southern details is the gift that mom never knew she wanted. Stop by Traditions Antiques and surprise your mom with this beautiful compote that we know she’ll love. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2016

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Joe Cool The Patio Place has an extensive line of Yeti products, from tumblers to ice chests, that make the perfect graduation gift. These are sure to keep their drink cold – or hot - when making that long trek across campus. Hand Over the Gloss All a girl needs for world domination is a great pair of shoes and some lip gloss. Gift your grad with a great color for spring from MD Minerals in Monroe, and she will be ready to conquer anything. In A Matter of Time What better gift for the graduate than a fine timepiece from Hollis & Company Jewelers. Whether it’s to get them to class or that new job on time, shop our vast selection of TAG Heuer, Tissot and Luminox.

Such a Diva Tyler Candles offers an array of household items such as candles, room spray and even fabric wash. A complex blend of fruits and florals, with rich aromatic chocolate and amber, Diva is a great scent for mom. Find it at The Muffin Tin in Monroe or Trenton House in West Monroe.

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The Besh Mother’s Day Vieux Carré Market in Monroe not only offers a wide selection of gourmet foods and fabulous wines – They have gifts, too! Snag a copy of the latest John Besh cookbook for her, and you’ll make her the happiest mom around.

Brush it On The Ultimate Paul Mitchell® Makeup Brush Collection can be found at Rain the Salon in Monroe. They are 100% vegan and sustainable with Cruelty free synthetic fibers, and wooden handles. This complete set with all the must haves a professional desires can be gifted to mom or the graduate in your life for an Ultimate gift.

Once Upon A Mother’s Day This coffee table book, Once Upon A Pillow by local Becky Vizard, is available at Material Things and highlights luxury pillows made from antique textiles. It features an extensive glossary of sewing, stitching and textile terms and categories that would be perfect for any mom that appreciates such details!

Glasses for the Grad Send your favorite grad to college in style with these popular TOMS frames from Haik Humble Eye Center. This is the ultimate gift that keeps on giving because for every pair purchased, TOMS will help give sight to a person in need.

Bag Your Grad Every girl needs a purse, especially a girl that just graduated. Congratulate her with this Real Suede messenger bag at K-Sera Boutique.

Let Mom Veg Out Pick up this unique candle holder at House of Carpets and Lighting in Shreveport. Whether your mom is a chef in the kitchen or just likes a pop of color in her house, she will love this little treasure!

Baton Rouge-Bound If you know a grad that is headed to LSU this fall, this Walking Tiger shirt from Mr. P’s Tees makes for a great graduation gift. They can rep their new school spirit in this non-traditional tee.

Best Nap Ever Want to get Mom something this year that she can use? Lincoln Outdoor Living in Ruston carries the ultimate selection of hammocks, cocoons and anything that you can hang from a tree and read a book in.

Southern Pride Surprise her with a gift of humor with this “darlin’” sign from Eleven 26. It’s perfect for the Southern Belle in your life, whether she’s a mom or a graduate.

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Get Your Fill A gift certificate from Derma MediQ in Monroe can be used for any service, including fillers. Dr. Saidi Sowma-Fahkre performs Botox, Restylane, Bellafill and Juvéderm to give you a natural youthful look.

Frame of Mind For a great piece of art, it’s all about the frame. The Frame Place, next to Albritton Photography in West Monroe can help turn any piece in to a “wow” piece for Mom this year. From a drawing to a photo, to something of sentimental value, a gift framed by The Frame Place is the best kind.

Hot Mama! O’Neal Gas has an extensive line of firepits for the gift that gives year round. Your mom can appreciate this during the cool spring nights through the chilly winter.

Stamp It These adorable handmade creations at Beehive in Ruston are great for moms and graduates. You can add any text that will fit… dates, names, sayings, whatever you choose. Add a sentimental touch to your gift-giving with Beehive.

Fringe for the New Freshman HerringStone’s has this leather fringe bag that would be just right for any new college co-ed. It’s the perfect size to store essentials while being on trend and stylish.

From a Child’s Eyes This unique small statue piece from Sleepy Hollow Furniture and Mattress perfectly reflects the loving relationship between mother and child. This is a great way to show her how much she means to you this Mother’s Day.

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Heart on Her Sleeve At Rose Boutique in Uptown Rayville you can liven up mom’s wardrobe this Mother’s Day with this purple Fixsun top. This colorful top is super comfortable and would look great on any mom.

Good as Gold This cute purse from Erin’s Attic in Ruston makes a great gift for grads. The envelope style bag features gold material with a touch of cork. We are in love!

Pop the Top Trenton Interiors and Company in Ruston has great gifts for Mom, like these charming bottle openers. Great alone or in a gift basket, they are unique items that are sure to make her smile. Stop by and view their selection of items big and small.

If the Cap Fits The perfect gift for moms and the momto-be this Mother’s Day. This Mama hat from If the Crown Fits in West Monroe will put a smile on her face and let her know how much you love her.

Fashionable Freshman For the girl graduate, these bralettes are perfect for baggy, oversized shirts or dresses and come in different colors. K-Sera Boutique is the place to get her what she really wants for graduation.

All About the Detail This two-toned Ranoldo Bracelet will melt mom’s heart this Mother’s Day. It’s a perfect match to any outfit and you can find it on Antique Alley at Walsworth & Company.

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Calendar of Events For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com Throughout May Join athletes from across the state as they compete for the chance to move on to the State Games of America in over 14 sports like: Track and Field, Beach Volleyball, AAU Super Regional Basketball, Baseball, Boxing, Archery, Disc Golf, Junior Golf, Powerlifting, Horseshoe Pitching, Softball, Warhawk Open Raquetball, BMX Racing and Pickleball Venue: Monroe- West Monroe Admission: Admission cost varies Web: louisianastategames.com May 1 Picnic in the Park Time: 12:00-4:00 p.m. In celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week, the CVB would like to invite you to join us for a Picnic in the Park at one of our most popular attractions in Ruston and Lincoln Parish! Bring the entire family out to Lincoln Parish Park with your lunch and enjoy music, face painting, bounce houses, and more activities for the kids provided by NCLAC and the IDEA Place! Families can also take advantage of the lakeside beach and playground located at the park. There are several picnic tables scattered throughout the park, but feel free to bring a blanket or folding lawn chairs for your picnic. Standard $2 park admission applies. Venue: Lincoln Parish Park Admission: $2 Antique Alley Spring Open House Time: 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Stroll the Alley and shop till you drop with music, food and fun. Venue: Antique Alley Admission Cost: Free Web: www.antiquealleyshops.org May 5 Women’s Whys? The Answers for Beyond the Childbearing Years! Time: 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Join Ovation Women’s Wellness for public event to help answer questions about Women’s Health including menopause, breast health, bladder health and sexual dysfunction. Refreshments will be provided.

Venue: St Francis Community Health Center, Community Room, 2nd Floor RSVP to: monroe@ovationwomen. com May 5-8 Louisiana Crawfish Gatorfest This is the 2nd Annual Louisiana Crawfish and Gator Fest at The Ike in West Monroe. This is a great event to bring your family and friends to enjoy great food, carnival rides, shopping, and live entertainment. This will be a fun-filled four-day event for all to remember from all areas of the ArkLaMiss to come enjoy the best crawfish and experience live Gators for your entertainment. Venue: Ike Hamilton Expo Center Arena Phone: 318-325-9160 Web: www.originalcrawfishgatorfest. com May 6-7 “The Wiz” Time: 7:00 p.m. Go on a magical journey with Dorothy and her little dog Toto in The Wiz. This award winning musical is sure to be enjoyed by all ages. Proceeds from this event benefit The Arts with Passion scholarships and upcoming theatrical productions. Venue: Strauss Theatre Center Admission Cost: $20 general admission; $35 VIP tickets Phone: 318-323-6681 Web: www.strausstheatrecenter.com May 6 Rhythm and Wine for Alzheimer’s Time: 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Join Glenwood Behavioral Health Center and Riverport Creative Group for the 2nd Annual Rhythm and Wine for Alzheimer’s Wine Pull. There will be a chance to win delicious wines by participating in a Wine Pull raffle, enjoy some delicious Cajun food, and bid on some great silent auction packages. Venue: Landry Vineyards Admission Cost: $20 general admission; $35 VIP ticket Phone: 318-557-9051 Web: www.rhythmandwineforalzheimers.com

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Louie and Shelley Giglio with Willie and Korie Robertson Time: 7:00 p.m. Enjoy a family friendly night with Louie Giglio and Shelley Giglio and hosts Willie Robertson and Korie Robertson. Free coffee and snowballs will be served courtesy of The Ice Cabin. Venue: West Monroe High School Auditorium Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-323-3771 May 7 Mother’s Day Bluesfest Time: 7:00 p.m. You don’t want to miss the great shows at Mother’s Day Bluesfest at the Monroe Civic Center! Venue: Monroe Civic Center Admission Cost: Ticket Prices Vary Phone: 318-329-2225 Web: www.ci.monroe.la.us/monroe-civic-center.php May 7-8 2nd Annual West Monroe C9 City Blowout Time: 9:30 a.m. Join Cloud 9 as they host the 2nd Annual West Monroe C9 City Blowout disc golf event. Play or cheer on teams as they participate in this PDGA B tier event. On site registration starts at 7:00am. Venue: Lazarre Park Admission Cost: $25-$55 May 7-8, 12-13 “The Jungle Book” Time: Saturday 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.; Sunday 3:00 p.m. Come get lost in the jungle as Strauss Youth Academy for the Arts presents “The Jungle Book,” an extraordinary adventure featuring everybody’s favorite jungle hero, Mowgli, a boy raised by wolves in the jungle. With the help of his friends — the bear Baloo, the panther Bagheera, and the python Kaa — Mowgli is learning to survive as they teach him about jungle law. Venue: Strauss Youth Academy for the Arts Admission Cost: $8 Students, $12 Adult

Phone: 318-812-7922 Web: www.straussyouthacademyforthearts.com May 7 Healthy Kids Day - Superhero 5K Dash Time: 8:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Join the YMCA of Northeast Louisiana as they host the Superhero 5K Dash. Participants in the 5K are encouraged to come dressed in their best superhero attire. Their will also be superhero themed games, contests and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Venue: YMCA of Northeast Louisiana Admission Cost: $25 for 13 and up, Free for 12 and under Phone: (318) 387-9622 Web: www.ynela.org/ Geeks Along the River Time: 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Downtown RiverMarket presents the area’s first geek fair, Geeks Along the River! Vendors will be set up from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no entry fee! Magic the Gathering Tournament 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. ($15 to enter); All But Brave performs - 2-3 p.m.; Dog cosplay contest - 3 p.m.; Cosplay contest - 3:30 p.m.; Ensilenced performs - 3-4 p.m. Venue: RiverMarket Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-807-9985 Web: downtownrivermarket.com My Mini Masur Drop In Activity Time: 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Bring your kids and let the creativity flow at the Masur Museum as they create an art project. This event is free of charge and children will leave with a unique art project. Venue: Masur Museum of Art Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-329-2237 Web: www.masurmuseum.org May 14 Krewe of Janus Golf Tournament Time: 7:30 a.m.; Registration; 9:30 a.m. Tee-off Join the Krewe of Janus as they host their annual golf tournament. The cost for this event is $100/player. This price includes entry into all events, 18 holes of golf, riding cart, lunch and various awards. Venue: Chennault Park and Golf Course Phone: 318-329-2454

Bayou DeSiard Dragon Boat Festival Time: Noon – 5:00 p.m. The dragons have invaded Northeast Louisiana and will make their annual appearance at the Bayou Desiard Dragon Boat Festival. Gather your friends, join a team or just come out to watch the races-there will be fun for everyone! Races begin at noon at the corner of Forsythe Avenue and Loop Road. Venue: Bayou DeSiard Country Club Phone: 318-388-2323 Web: www.facebook.com/BayouDesiardDragonBoatFestival May 17 Masur Museum Curator’s Tour Time: 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Join Masur Museum of Art and learn about their exhibitions first hand from Ben Hickey, Curator of Collections and Exhibitions. Venue: Masur Museum of Art Admission Cost: Free Phone: 318-329-2237 Web: www.masurmuseum.org May 20 pARTy 318! Time: 5:30pm-8:30pm It’s time for pARTy 318! The Masur Museum of Art is continuing our new series of FREE special events for young professionals and museum members. This fun party will feature food trucks, an open bar and door prizes. Please join us and come see what the Masur has to offer. Did we mention this is free? The pARTy is free, so please bring cash for the food trucks. Venue: Masur Museum of Art Phone: 318-329-2237 Web: www.masurmuseum.org

chkrat, and Tyler Smith. “The Magic Flute” will be sung in German (with subtitles) and the dialogue will be spoken in English. This music-drama is a family favorite for all ages. Tickets can be purchased at Fiesta Nutrition starting in April 2016. Venue: ULM Emy-Lou Biedenharn Recital Hall Admission Cost: $25 per person Phone: 318-342-1568 May 21 Garden Photography Workshop Time: 10:00am-5:00pm The Biedenharn Museum and Gardens will be holding an exotic photography adventure where students will learn how to get the best nature shots possible when photographing the flowers and foliage of Biedenharn Museum. Venue: Biedenharn Museum and Gardens Admission Cost: $130 Phone: 318-387-5281 Web: www.bmuseum.org May 28 Run for the Red, White and Blue Time: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. Join Chennault Aviation and Military Museum as they host Run for the Red, White and Blue. Contact Chennault Aviation and Military Museum for more information. Venue: Chennault Aviation and Military Museum Phone: (318) 362-5540 Web: chennaultmuseum.org Visit www.monroe-westmonroe.org for information about events in Ouachita Parish and visit www. rustonlincoln.com for events in Lincoln Parish.

6th Annual Bob Dylan Birthday Jam Time: 6:00 p.m. - Close Join Enoch’s Irish Pub as they host a gathering of the finest musicians in the Monroe-West Monroe area for fellowship and a tribute to the greatest songwriter of all time, Bob Dylan. Venue: Enoch’s Irish Pub Phone: 318-388-3662 Web: enochsirishpub.com May 20 and 22 “The Magic Flute” Time: Friday 7:00 p.m.; Sunday 2:00 p.m. This eternal comic favorite (with glorious music) will be performed with a professional cast, including Corey McKern, Betsy Us-

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