BayouLife Magazine February 2021

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90 12 / CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP

This comfort classic recipe brings warmth and comfort on a chilly day.

FEBRUARY 2021

22 / BAYOU COCKTAIL

Spice up things this Valentine’s Day with a hot twist on a classic. This month’s cocktail is the Hot Diggity Spicy Dog.

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42 / EVERY FLAVOR HAS A STORY

Monica Smith’s family-owned and operated small batch bake shop, Bake 318, specializes in fresh, from scratch sweet and savory treats meant to satisfy anytime a craving hits.

BayouLife Magazine’s own Cassie Livingston shares with us her struggles with decorating the mantle after the holidays and how Taylor Bennett helps transform the space.

27 / A DIFFERENT TUNE

72 / THE WHITE’S LIGHT

Offering private instruction by qualified, university-trained personnel, Grace Note Academy is taking classic teaching styles and making them accessible to students of all ages and abilities.

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Since the summer of 2020, Elizabeth has shared her passion for quilting with others by teaching classes at Material Things in Monroe, owned by Joyce Sims.

/ RED HAUTE A P R I L 2 0 1 8110 From flirty dresses to one-shoulder tops,

59 / ART OF A SIMPLE VALENTINE’S DAY

Taylor Bennett styled some great tips for making this V-Day a true success - from homemade heart donuts to a soaking tub full of citrus and rose petals, from a hand-written love letter to a whimsical tablescape for family night - it’s the little things that count.

24 / MANTLE EDIT

90 / ELIZABETH PRINE

This Month’s BayouIcons, Rev. Maurice White and his wife, Tiffany, have worked tirelessly to establish the Zion Traveler Community Development Corporation and the Hope Center for Autism in Ruston.

these looks are perfect for Valentine’s Day and beyond.

118 / JIU JITSU

The increasingly popular sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has come to Northeast Louisiana. Kron Gracie Jiu Jitsu West Monroe & Vital Fitness are enthusiastic about training people of all ages.

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ebruary is a time to honor those we love, recognize the role of African-Americans in U.S. history, celebrate Mardi Gras and prepare for the Lenten season. It’s a month that the Livingstons celebrate in a huge way – both my babies will have birthdays this month, as well as my mom. Planning our usual celebrations look a little different this year. Of course we’ll be loading up with supplies from The Paper Market and getting a King Cake from Thurman’s, but our usual romp to the “Big Easy” will look a little more subdued this year as we celebrate Mardi Gras and birthdays from home.

This month’s issue has timely articles on gardening, Valentine’s Day projects, people who have shaped our community, recipes, outdoors columns and more.

Our BayouArtist this month is Elizabeth Prine. Elizabeth and I met years ago when she was a floral designer for We are Gathered, a company she co-founded with a friend. As many things changed with the pandemic, so did Elizabeth’s career and now she is sharing her passion for quilting with others by teaching classes at Material Things in Monroe. Read her article on page 90.

Our February Bayou Icons are a loving couple whose lives have been marked not only by their love for each other, and their love for their families, but also by love for their God and their fellow man.

Rev. Maurice White is widely-respected in Louisiana for his work as pastor for the Zion Traveler Baptist Church in Ruston.

With other like-minded leaders, he has worked to establish the Zion Traveler

PAGE 59 ART OF A SIMPLE VALENTINE'S DAY

BayouLife 1201 Royal Avenue Monroe, LA 71201 Phone 318.855.3185

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PUBLISHER & OWNER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com

Community Development Corporation, a non-profit created to combat poverty in his community by paving the way for people to become homeowners and entrepreneurs. By his side every step of the way has been his wife of 16 years, Tiffany Owens White. The two have worked tirelessly on a number of projects, but perhaps none more important to them personally than the establishment of the Hope Center for Autism in Ruston. Read their story on page 72.

Sometimes our more simple fashion shoots turn out to be my favorites - this is definitely the case for February. This month Mallory Lynn modeled Valentine’s Day looks from area boutiques in our shoot, Red Haute. Our hair and makeup guru, Meka Reliford, and our photographer, Kelly Moore Clark, worked their magic to bring you this season’s chicest looks.

This Valentine’s Day, go all out for the special person in your life. It’s been a challenging year and everyone needs to know how much they’re loved. It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture, but a thoughtful day full of fun surprises is a great way to say “I love you.” Need some ideas? Taylor Bennett styled some great tips for making this V-Day a true success - from homemade heart donuts to a soaking tub full of citrus and rose petals, from a hand-written love letter to a whimsical tablescape for family night - it’s the little things that count.

This year continues to be challenging for small businesses. More than ever, we need the support of our community. Many businesses are more than willing to provide personal shopping, along with curbside or local deliveries. So skip the big box online shopping sites and shop local this month.

Thank you so much for reading and supporting our small business. We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of BayouLife Magazine.

Cassie

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GENERAL MANAGER Ashley Hubenthal ashley@bayoulifemag.com COPY EDITOR Cindy Foust GRAPHIC DESIGNER Meagan Russell meagan@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVES Katelyn Tolbert katelyn@bayoulifemag.com ART DIRECTOR Taylor Bennett LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Kelly Moore Clark CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Nils Borquist Dan Chason Laura W. Clark Kenny Covington Shannon Dahlum Lou Davenport Cindy Gist Foust Kerry Heafner Lawrencia Jenkins Paul Lipe Erin Love

Meredith McKinnie Dr. Timothy Mickel Guy Miller J. Preston Parry, MD Andrew Patton, MD Georgiann Potts Delia Simpson Beatrice A. Tatem Vanelis Rivera Alana Wagner Judy Wagoner

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Kelly Moore Clark Andrew Bailey

ON THE COVER Art of a Simple Valentine’s Day photo by Kelly Moore Clark BayouLife Magazine is published and distributed by Redbird Publishing, LLC. Postal subscriptions ($30) can be ordered online at www.bayoulifemag.com. BayouLife Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, manuscripts, or other materials. Opinion columns do not represent the views of the publisher. Reproduction of contents without express written permission is prohibited.

Breast Augmentation Frequently Asked Questions

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

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HE WINTER SEASON IS A GREAT TIME TO CONSIDER breast augmentation. If privacy is an issue, you can camouflage your new fullness with thick sweaters and jackets until warm weather arrives. And even if privacy isn’t a concern, having breast augmentation in the winter allows several months for swelling to subside and your breasts to soften, settle and look more natural in new sundresses and swimwear when spring and summer roll around. I started my practice in Monroe in 1990 and over the past 30 years have done well over a thousand breast augmentations. Here are some of the more frequent questions asked at the pre-operative evaluation:

How long does the operation take? The surgery takes about an hour. Of course, there is some additional time in the beginning to safely put you to sleep and some time in the end to safely wake you up and transport you to the recovery room. I will never rush through your surgery. In plastic surgery, it is not as important to be the first one finished, as it is to be the best one finished.

Why do I have to be put to sleep? I prefer general anesthesia, meaning you will be put to sleep by an anesthesiologist or a nurse anesthetist. Most patients don’t want to remember anything about the operation. They simply want to wake up in the recovery room, look down at their chest and know that the operation is over.

Can you do the surgery in your office? No. I prefer to do this type of surgery in a hospital or outpatient surgery center setting. Accredited surgical facilities have strict guidelines and procedures in place to help insure sterility and patient safety - which is my highest concern. I would never compromise your safety just to shave a few dollars off the package price for a surgical procedure.

What’s the best kind of implant to use? In the vast majority of first time breast augmentation patients I use smooth silicone implants because they are softer and look more natural than implants filled with saline (salt water). However, in women under age 22, saline implants can be a reasonable choice. We will discuss these options at your initial consultation.

Are silicone implants dangerous? No. Multiple studies have failed to show a definitive link between silicone implants and any medical illness. They do, however, cause very attractive breasts. And I suppose in some situations this could be dangerous.

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How long will I be off work? I encourage patients to be up and around as soon as possible. Most patients can return to light work in 3 to 5 days. I allow patients to get back to the gym, including intense cardio or even weight lifting in 3 - 4 weeks.

How do you know what size implants to use? Implants are sized according to width and volume, not cup size. I will listen carefully to what you hope to achieve with surgery, evaluate your particular anatomy and then try to align your expectations with what my years of experience tells me I can realistically deliver. The goal is a fuller, more attractive breast that looks natural and fits your body – no matter what the ultimate cup size.

Will large breasts make me look fat? No. Fat makes you look fat.

Fuller breasts make you look proportional, attractive, sexy, feminine or a host of other adjectives, but not fat. This is a myth.

Do my implants need to be changed every ten years? No. This is another urban myth. While it is true that a breast implant – like your toaster, your refrigerator or your car - is a man-made device that won’t last forever, there is no reason to fix it if it isn’t broken. If your breasts are soft and natural, and there has been no evidence of implant rupture on routine mammograms or ultrasound examinations of the breasts, then leave well enough alone.

Can you enlarge my breasts with fat instead of a breast implant?

Yes. Fat grafting is a relatively new option for breast enhancement that doesn’t involve an implant. Fat can be removed from one part of your body using liposuction, then re-injected into your breasts for augmentation. This is not for everyone, but it is a reasonable option for women who desire a modest enlargement (one cup size or less) and who have enough fat to harvest and process for injection. Not all of the fat graft “takes” so the procedure may need to be repeated one or more times to achieve the desired result.

Breast augmentation is one the most common procedures I perform, and certainly one of my favorites. If you are considering breast augmentation, there is no need to go elsewhere. I encourage you to visit www.mickelplasticsurgery.com to browse the before and after gallery and see for yourself, then call Mickel Plastic Surgery at (318) 388-2050 to set up a consultation. We will take the time to answer all of your questions and do our best to make the entire experience world class.

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Looking to Love What the World Needs Now is Love

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

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IMPLY STATED, LOVE. “WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW IS love, sweet love, it’s the only thing that there’s just too little of. What the world needs now is love, sweet love, no not just for some but for everyone.” Burt Bacharach and Hal Davis co-wrote these lyrics in 1965.

It was written in the midst of the Vietnam war. Ironically, 56 years later as we confront some of the most difficult societal struggles in our recent memory the message conveyed in this song remains relevant. Simply stated, what we all need is love particularly in these tumultuous times.

The shortest month of the calendar year, February is a powerful and fun month filled with a lot of goodness. It is known as the month of love because of Valentine‘s Day and has also been designated as Black History Month. It celebrates the religious Mardi Gras holiday and houses the Super Bowl. During February the Chinese New Year is recognized, Ash Wednesday occurs, Groundhog Day is noted, National Freedom Day is acknowledged and attention is brought to President’s Day. On a personal note February is always special to me as it is the month in which I began seeing clients in my private practice. My practice serves people in search of love, acceptance, change, wellness, purpose, meaning and a good life. I have witnessed the feeling of love, sharing love and being loved as healing…observing acts of love has inspired me. Like hatred, love is everywhere. I envision a world in which people resonate love from their inner being, where people love themselves and each other for who they are. In my opinion, love, especially unconditional love is transformative; love has the power to change us, to improve us and the world we function in. Love, appreciation and acceptance helps us see the good in others and unites us despite turbulent times of divisiveness and illness. Perhaps it is overzealous optimism but I believe love reaches across boundaries and obstacles and allows us to stand against racism, discrimination, violence, hurt, rejection and ill will.

Love means many things to many people. It has been defined as an emotion of strong affection, fondness and personal attachment. Love has been described as a meaningful and purposeful virtue in the context of life representing human kindness, genuine acceptance, compassion, unselfish concern for the good of another. Love empowers one to seek greatness and to reach beyond what seems at times as unobtainable and unimaginable.

Love is expressed through thoughts, feelings and actions. For example, Valentine’s Day, is set aside to bring attention to the significance of love in our lives. Love has many benefits. It affects our physical and mental well-being; impacts our mind and body, guides our heart, allowing our

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thoughts and actions to promote, enact and respond to change. Love produces positive emotion, reduces stress, confronts conflict, relieves pain and wards off disease (and these COVID ridden days we need this more than ever) to help us live longer and stronger. It affects our moods, our perceptions and our view of self in the world. Love enhances our lives, radiates through our senses, influences our behaviors, permeates our souls and strengthens our spirit. Internalized love is invigorating; it gives us energy, motivates and uplifts. Genuine love speaks to our hurt, soothes pain, heals wounds and cleanses us of negativity that does not serve us well. I believe love is so powerful it rights wrongs, transcends differences, bridges gaps, alleviates humiliation, unites communities and builds relationships.

Love can improve your overall wellness, identify the most important things to you in life and value all it entails. It can rekindle relationships near and far. Unmute your love…let it be seen and heard. Give love and be open to experiencing love. Take care of your mental health and remember receiving love and offering love enhances your quality of life. Believe in love for yourself…it might be your best gift yet. Make a date with yourself and do what you love. Surround yourself with loving people. Love inside out and outside in unconditionally. Recognize your how‘s, what’s and why’s of love. Know your love language and “speak it” when interacting with others. Be mindful expressions of love extend beyond material gifts exchanged within a single day.

We are living in a time when now more than ever there is the need to experience love daily. As we endure challenges to humanity there is a desperate need for us to love one another, to bring into our individual awareness and consciousness the feelings, thoughts and ideas of others.

Whether virtual or in person we have the potential to attain the kind of love we dream of having; sincere intimacy, mutual kindness, authentic commitment and honest soul caring. It begins with each of us reaching deep within ourselves and in turn sharing the love we possess with others.

I encourage all to be the change you want and need to see in the world, to be loving towards yourself and others. This February willingly fall in love with life and with the people who make up the world.… after all everyone wants to be loved and accepted particularly by those that matter to them.

May this new year be filled with a bounty of love for us all.

For more information on counseling and outreach services contact Dr. Beatrice Tatem at Wellness Initiatives, LLC, 2485 Tower Drive, Suite 10 Monroe, La 71201, 318-410-1555 or at btatem.bt@gmail.com

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BAYOURECIPE

COMFORT CLASSIC This chicken noodle soup recipe brings warmth and comfort on a chilly day. There’s nothing like an inviting bowl of soup to help break hibernation, beat the quarantine blues and soothe the stomach.

Styling by Taylor Bennett Photography by Kelly Moore Clark What You’ll Need

1 diced onion 3 large chopped carrots 1 cup chopped celery 1 cup chopped fennel (one bulb) 2 sprigs thyme 1 tbsp salt or to taste 1 tsp black pepper 1 cup egg noodles 3-4 lb whole chicken

Heat an 8-quart Dutch oven over medium heat with 2 tbsp olive oil. Add the onion and cook until translucent, around 4-5 minutes.

Add the carrot, celery, fennel, chicken, and thyme. Cover with 2 quarts of water. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is done.

Remove the chicken from the soup and add the egg noodles. When the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove and discard the skin.

Separate the meat from the bones and shred. Add back to the soup to warm through and serve. Depending on the size of the chicken, add some or all of the meat and store the rest in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Recipe adapted from www.wyseguide.com

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Bayou Pages

NIGHTSTANDS & COFFEE TABLES “Blanche on the Lam” by Barbara Neely REVIEW BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE “This is how we’ve survived in this country all this time, by knowing when to act like we believe what we’ve been told and when to act like we know what we know.”

Blanche White is a black domestic worker with a sharp tongue, keen intuition, and an inability to stay in one place. When she finds herself at the mercy of the city judge due to a bounced check, Blanche chooses to ignore the demands of an unjust justice system and flee to the safety of her new employers, accompanying the family to the country house. Blanche’s responsibilities include caring for the house and preparing meals for the family, but she senses an uneasiness in this extravagantly wealthy environment and discomfort around her white employers. She refuses to connect personally with people whose circumstances prevent them from ever truly seeing her beyond her functionality for the household.

Her employers, Grace and Everett, live with and off Grace’s wealthy Aunt Emmeline, a recluse with an affinity for gin and a short temper. Cousin Mumsfield is set to inherit Aunt Emmeline’s estate, and Grace and Everett treat the legitimate heir as more hired help. Blanche reluctantly connects with Mumsfield, as his mental disorder makes him as invisible in this space as Blanche.

When mysterious circumstances arise, Blanche relies on her quick wit and instinct to transform herself from lowly housemaid to crime detective.

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Blanche’s primary responsibility is her adopted kids, who are adjacent characters to where the plot happens, but no less relevant to Blanche’s motive and survival.

Blanche is a unique combination of an ambitious woman, limited by circumstances, and a loving maternal figure reluctant to show love to people who can’t adequately give love in return. Her identity conflict is being human with an inclination toward humanity towards others, and avoiding the pitfalls of working with her heart. Neely writes Blache’s character with perception and a nod to the often overlooked in our society, showcasing their ability to step out of the shadows and claim the spotlight.

The crime novel genre is flooded with alcoholic male detectives whose instincts overcome their personal shortcomings just in time to solve complicated mysteries.

In this novel, Barbara Neely takes a different approach to crime fiction, instead placing the responsibility of crime solving on the shoulders of a black female domestic worker, hesitant to get involved and compromise her paycheck, but unable to deny knowing what she knows.

While this novel is a mystery, it’s comical, as Blanche’s smart retorts and social commentary provide a welcome reprieve from the weight of theft and murder. Blanche is a character to root for, not only for her own safety, but for being the sleuth no one saw coming

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Your Heart’s in the Right Place St. Francis Medical Center

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HEN IT COMES TO MATTERS OF HEART HEALTH, your heart’s in the right place at St. Francis Medical Center.

Our cardiovascular experts are committed to preventing heart disease and bringing you the latest and most effective treatments. Our highly skilled team provides patient-focused, collaborative care with each patient receiving a customized care plan for their unique health needs.

St. Francis is the region’s leader in cardiovascular care and offers: • An Accredited Chest Pain Center with Primary PCI by the American College of Cardiology (ACC).

• The region’s most advanced hybrid operating room (OR) with innovative technology and imaging capabilities which will help to improve patient outcomes and quality of care.

• The Watchman procedure for patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, first and only provider in Northeast Louisiana offering this procedure.

• Percutaneous (through the skin) valve replacements or repairs such as the transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

• Six cardiac catheterization labs for patients who need coronary interventions.

• Various endovascular procedures (using a catheter inserted through the skin to diagnose and treat vascular disease and hybrid (part open and part endovascular) intervention to treat complex vascular problems.

• Traditional open-heart surgery.

TRANSCATHETER AORTIC VALVE REPLACEMENT (TAVR)

The aorta is a major blood vessel within the heart that delivers blood to the rest of the body. Aortic stenosis is a narrowing of the aortic valve opening which prevents normal blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta causing the leaflets to not open and close properly. This restriction of the aortic valve makes your heart work harder to get the blood pumped to the rest of your body.

There are several types of surgical procedures which can be used to treat severe aortic stenosis which involves replacement of the damaged aortic valve.

Open heart surgery is one treatment option. The damaged valve is surgically removed and the new valve is inserted through a chest incision.

The patient is on a heart-lung bypass machine during the procedure.

Some patients are at high risk due to illness or other conditions and may not be a good candidate for open heart surgery.

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Minimally invasive open heart surgery is similar to open heart surgery, but a smaller incision in the chest is needed. The surgeon uses a tiny camera and small tools to replace the aortic valve. For those who cannot have open heart surgery, this is an option for treatment.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) is an alternative treatment option for those patients who are at high risk for open heart surgery and qualify for the procedure. While the heart is still beating, TAVR allows a new valve to be placed inside the diseased aortic valve via a thin, flexible tube, or catheter. The new valve replaces the diseased valve and blood flow is increased throughout the body. The patient does not have to be on a heart-lung bypass machine during TAVR. WATCHMAN PROCEDURE

Atrial fibrillation, or irregular heartbeat, increases your risk of having a stroke. In fact, on average, a person with AFib is five times more likely to suffer a stroke than someone with a regular heartbeat. The reason for that is because AFib causes your heart to beat irregularly, which affects its ability to pump blood normally. And when the heart does not pump as it should, blood can collect and form clots. If a clot escapes, it can cut off the blood supply to the brain—causing a stroke.

Many patients with AFib not caused by a heart valve problem may be prescribed blood thinners to help prevent blood clots. Long-term use of blood thinners like warfarin can increase the risk of excessive bleeding since they reduce the ability of blood to clot.

More than 90% of stroke-causing clots that come from the heart are formed in the left atrial appendage (LAA) for those diagnosed with AFib not caused by a heart valve problem. That is why closing off this part of the heart is an effective way to reduce stroke risk.

The WATCHMAN Implant fits right into your LAA. It is designed to permanently close it off and keep those blood clots from escaping.

WATCHMAN is about the size of a quarter and made from very light and compact materials commonly used in many other medical implants.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the WATCHMAN device for use in the United States in 2015. Based on clinical trials, nine out of 10 people were able to stop taking warfarin just 45 days after getting the WATCHMAN device. At one year, 99 out of 100 were able to stop taking warfarin.

Find out more about these procedures and the highly skilled cardiovascular physicians on staff at St. Francis Medical Center by visiting stfran.com.

Alumni Spotlight ULM Alumni: Ieshea Hollins

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AISED IN RAYVILLE, IESHEA HOLLINS GREW UP singing in her father’s church. Her junior year of high school, Ieshea transferred to West Monroe High School (WMHS) where her passion for music led her to choose the school choir as one of her electives. Initially led by Sheila Martin, then Greg Oden, Ieshea went on to rise and shine in the choir stands and was quickly chosen for the school’s Ensemble Choir, a select group of 8 singers, 2 from each voice level. Ieshea dreamed of being a performer. Never being one to shy away from the stage, her choir directors immediately recognized her talent as an alto with phenomenal range and encouraged her to pursue music further. Entering her into the state level competitions, Ieshea went on to chair at state and receive scholarships in music to schools throughout the state of Louisiana. Serving as a youth leader, then Choir Director and eventually Minister of Music at The Living Gospel Church, attending ULM seemed the most viable option after graduating from WMHS. Her parents Johann and Marilyn Hollins had attended ULM, and Ieshea wanted to stay close to home and continue her leadership role in the church.

Along with her love of music, Ieshea also fell in love with technology. She was constantly taking things apart to see how they worked. With computers also being a passion of hers it made sense for her to double major at ULM, in Music and Computer Information Systems. After being offered vocal and academic scholarships from across the state, Ieshea joined the ULM family. She became very active on campus and was a member of the ULM Choir, the Interdenominational Ensemble (IDE) and Chamber Singers, a select group of performers for fundraisers in the community. She also served as vice president for the Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP).

Ieshea has been blessed with numerous mentors throughout her journey, but she lovingly reflected on her first in music at ULM, Mr. Louis Nabors, the ULM vocal coach and IDE Choir Director. A giant of a man, both vocally and physically, Nabors taught Ieshea the importance of nurturing her voice and a respect for the art of music.

Growing up, Ieshea just sang what she heard, but Nabors showcased the necessity of studying music along with practice. Mrs. Kristen Oden devoted extra time to teaching her students piano, encouraging them to enter competitions and to believe in their talent. Ieshea claims, “WMHS gave me the confidence, and ULM gave me the education.”

In CIS, then instructor, now ULM President Ronald Berry, showed tremendous patience with his students, often accompanying groups

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to competitions for AITP. Ieshea says Berry is relatable and pushed his students toward greatness. The confidence Ieshea gained from performing in front of different groups inevitably empowered Ieshea to step out of her comfort zone throughout her career. When speaking about her time in both the choirs and AITP, Ieshea says “They made my college experience amazing! We traveled, competed, and worked hard, but I gained lifelong friends and created worthwhile memories. I’m so glad I did it!”

Dr. Berry recommended Ieshea for an internship at CenturyLink as a Systems Analyst Programmer. She was hired full time after graduating from ULM in 2003. Ieshea steadily climbed the ladder, serving as a Senior Project Manager and then Senior Lead IT Program Manager. Looking to expand her reach, Ieshea started considering forming her own company. She noticed a need for IT support in criminal cases. Ieshea worked with law enforcement and attorneys preparing cases for trial. She worked diligently on each case while maintaining her role at CenturyLink. She began pitching her business across the state and placed fourth in the overall pitch category at Louisiana Startup - Shreveport. Her company would pair cyber security with digital forensics. In 2013, Ieshea left CenturyLink to devote herself to her business full time. Direnzic Technology & Consulting, LLC which was established in 2011 in Monroe, LA and has continued to grow and expand. Ieshea was proud to announce that recently Direnzic Technology expanded into the Dallas-Fort Worth area and has launched a second location in Frisco, TX.

Ieshea is the mother of two children. Johann is 22, and I’Leyana, 8.

As a local business owner, Ieshea loves the progress she sees at ULM. The campus is beautiful and inviting. She knows the importance of having a university in our community, constantly encouraging and educating students to take the reins of the community moving forward.

The ULM Alumni Association reaches, connects and celebrates alumni and friends to build lifelong relationships, and commit to the university’s missions of academic freedom, scholarship, diversity, excellence, integrity and service. We represent alumni who honor the traditions of our university and who share a sense of achievement and pride. We create a network of professionals, establish scholarships and advocate for our University through community engagement. Members of the Alumni Association support countless initiatives, and annual memberships are just $35. To learn more or to become a member, please visit our new alumni network at ulm.edu/alumni.

BAYOUCOCK TAIL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK STYLED BY TAYLOR BENNETT

What You’ll Need

FOR THE JALAPEÑO SIMPLE SYRUP: 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup water 1 jalapeño, sliced FOR THE DRINK MIX: Kosher salt 1/3 cup grapefruit juice 2 oz Tito’s vodka

HOT DIGGITY SPICY DOG

Spice up things this Valentine’s Day with a hot twist on a classic. To make the drink, salt the rim of your glass. Next, combine simple syrup, grapefruit juice and vodka in a shaker filler with ice and shake until chilled. Strain over prepared glasses and garnish with grapefruit and jalapeño slices.

To make the simple syrup: combine sugar, water and jalapeño slices in saucepan and stir. Let simmer for 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and store refrigerated.

B A Y O U

H O M E

Add things that bring you joy to your mantle. This brass crab ashtray was my grandmother’s and was always a fixture on her coffee table. Seeing it reminds me of fun times with my cousins playing the piano and games in the formal room at her home.

Plants, like this Spider plant, add instant appeal to any space. Choose plants that are easy to maintain and thrive in indoor environments. We love Peperomia and snake plants for those looking to add greenery to their home for the first time.

I’ve often struggled with the “how-to” of mantle decorating after Christmas.

Everything seems bare and no matter what I do, it is often lackluster – especially when the TV is the main focal point in our family room. This year, Taylor Bennett used his styling expertise to create a beautiful and warm space with fresh greenery and layers of books and light.

W O R D S BY C A S S I E L I V I N G S TO N A N D P H OTO G R A P H Y BY K E L LY M O O R E C L A R K

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L E T ’ S C E L E B R AT E T H I S “ G A L” E N T I N E ’ S DAY !

by ERIN SHARPLIN LOVE | erinlove@panachebyerin.com

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hen was the last time you cast your troubles aside, had fun, and truly celebrated? With what we faced in 2020 (and are still facing), I bet those times have been few and far between. Well, I say that we should make 2021 a year of celebration – safely, of course! Let’s celebrate our health, our family, our doctors and nurses, our homes, our pets, our businesses, and everything else in our lives! And while we are at it, February is the perfect time to celebrate our friendships!

For many of us, our friends are our ones who have pulled us out of hard times. They are a shoulder to cry on, our unwavering cheerleaders, and they have our backs when we need it. If that is not cause for a celebration, I don’t know what is!

With that being said, this month I want to help you plan a day that will not be forgotten (and may even become a yearly occurrence!) For those of you who have not heard of “Gal”entines Day, let me explain.

The term was dubbed by Amy Poehler in the sitcom, “Parks and

Recreation.” It is a celebration of female friendship. Think about it…we have specific celebration days for moms, dads, grandparents, couples, and so much more, but there isn’t one specific day that we celebrate our friendships.

So, below are my ideas for a 2021-inspired “Gal”entine’s Day:

PLAN A COOKING PARTY. Hire a personal chef to come in and teach your crew how to make a special meal. If you are like me, you get tired of cooking the same things over and over, so learning how to cook a quick and easy new meal would be educational as well as fun. Be sure to include your favorite wine that would go with the chosen meal and set a formal table. It will add to the overall ambiance and make the party that much more memorable.

Speaking of wine…

HOST A WINE TASTING. Who doesn’t love to attend a wine tasting? There are so many varieties of wine that you are sure to please even the most discerning drinkers. There are even non-alcoholic versions for those friends who won’t be drinking. You could even

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include cute wine glass markers that could serve as party favors.

And don’t forget the obligatory charcuterie board!

HAVE A PAJAMA PARTY. This one may be my favorite because I have been craving some girl time with rejuvenating moisture masks and at- home pedicures!

You could even have eye masks as favors for your friends to use at home. Be sure to set the mood with relaxing music, good wine, essential oils, and anything else that you would enjoy.

ATTEND A PAINT PARTY. Contact your local “Painting with a Twist” and see what you can cook up. You can bring wine and pizza (or other food choice) to these events, too! Painting is so relaxing, and it gives the mind a bit of a break from routine.

HOST MOVIE NIGHT. This is something I have wanted to do for a while now. You can do it outside under the stars or in your family room. Either one would be different and fun!

Think of warm blankets, soft socks, popcorn, candy, and a good horror flick to snap you out of reality and into another realm.

Or you could be traditional and watch a sappy, love story!

GO FOR GAME NIGHT. Pull out all your favorite games such as Scrabble, Checkers, Connect Four, and Battleship and set up different stations for each game. You could also play card games such as Rook, Rummy, and Pokeno if you prefer. Have prizes for the winners of each game. What fun.

Remember that hosting duties don’t have to be on only one person. No matter which event you choose, find ways to split up the duties so each friend will feel like she contributed.

For instance, if you choose to do the wine tasting, each friend could bring her favorite bottle of wine. The point is to have fun and celebrate your friendships!

There are so many ways to get together with friends in a safe, yet fun environment this “Gal”entine’s Day! I know that I would LOVE to attend any one of these themed-evenings. They all sound like so much fun. And aren’t we all craving that right now? I know that I am. Which event will you choose for your crew? I can’t wait to hear all about it. Please share!

B AYO U B E AT S A R T I CL E BY VA N EL IS R I V ER A & PH OTO GR A PH Y BY A N DR E W BA I L E Y

A DIFFERENT TUNE Offering private instruction by qualified, university-trained personnel, GRACE NOTE ACADEMY is taking classic teaching styles and making them accessible to students of all ages and abilities.

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grace note is a music notation usually printed smaller to indicate it is not essential to a melody or harmony. In a way, it is an embellishment to a music score, one that a musician can play if they choose. Just as when you look at a map and see there are many roads to get to any one destination, so also is the case with music. No two musicians are alike, everyone finding their own style, their own enhancements,

whether they are playing a song or teaching how to play an instrument. Such creative autonomy is what John Farmer sought to implement when he opened Grace Note Music Academy last year. Offering private instruction by qualified, university-trained personnel, this Northeast Louisiana music school is taking classic teaching styles and making them accessible to students of all ages and abilities.

“I always loved music,” says Farmer, who recalls his first foray into the art was really just the result of a whim. “I attempted learning to play guitar several times again.” Every year, he would give it a “crack,” but it didn’t quite stick until he was 14. His persistence led him to pursue a degree in classical jazz guitar and music education at the University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM). In his freshman year of WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2021 27

college, he got hired at a music store as a guitar instructor where he had a consistent influx of students. “I figured out really quickly that I enjoyed doing that job,” he says.

In about six months, he was teaching seven days a week and dealing with a substantial client list. When the store closed, he moved his one-man operation to Matt’s Music.

Though appreciative of the space, Farmer longed for a facility that solely focused on private music lessons. “You know, just teachers having a place to teach where they needed to, however they wanted to, with all the tools that they need.”

It was easy for Farmer to find teachers. He contacted classmates from ULM who had also gone through the same music program. “I knew I had good teachers from the beginning,” he emphasizes. Using some basic marketing and the position he had at Matt’s allowed him to facilitate placing students with the best teacher for their desired instrument and learning style. Each Grace Note teacher has a degree in their instrument and a depth of experience in that instrument. Not having a set curriculum allows teachers to reach students where they are and customize lessons based on learning styles and ability. “I hire teachers purposely. I let them teach what they want to teach because I know how good they are.” Currently, Farmer has nine teachers for a range of instruments including guitar, bass, percussion, piano, ukulele, violin, and voice.

Naomi Naquin, Choir Director at Caldwell Parish Junior High, was one of the first instructors and fellow ULM alum that Farmer contacted to be part of the Grace Note team. Though she has a knack for classroom instruction, Naquin favors the individual teaching allotted at Grace Note. “It’s easier for the teacher to diagnose what’s going on, like what the individual student needs to 28 FEBRUARY 2021 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

It was easy for Farmer to find teachers.

He contacted classmates from ULM who had also gone through the same music program. “I knew I had good teachers from the beginning,” he emphasizes.

work on. There’s this level of comfort with the student,” she says, adding that students tend to progress much quicker with an instrument with one-on-one sessions, even if they are part of a school music program. Austin George, professional guitarist and another by-product of the ULM music program, had an early start to teaching guitar. Beginning at merely 16, he was an obvious choice for Farmer, particularly because George was one of his former students. George’s sunny disposition, an important commodity for any music instructor, also helps put students at ease. “My whole thing is, I just want you to play and enjoy it,” says George.

Austin George, professional guitarist and another by-product of the ULM music program, had an early start to teaching guitar.

Beginning at merely 16, he was an obvious choice for Farmer, particularly because George was one of his former students.

At Grace Note, the student experience is prioritized.

Four offices serve as lesson rooms, allowing uninterrupted lessons fostering optimal focus in the learning process. If a parent has one child wanting to learn piano and the other favoring the drum kit, they can schedule lessons at the same time. A lobby area is designed for parents or guardians to lounge comfortably as they wait for lessons to conclude.

And as stated before, since, teachers are not inhibited from teaching the way they want to teach, it’s not always Beethoven or Baroque-style music emanating from the lesson rooms. “We are able to reach a wide audience by catering to what a student wants,” says Farmer, whose teachers will frequently ask students what music they want to learn. Farmer has passed a vocal room and heard the voice teacher coaching a kid how to sing a song from the Moana soundtrack.

Sometimes, Imagine Dragons songs ripple out of a piano room and Nirvana blares from a drum session.

“So, we’re teaching the students things that are relevant to them,” says Farmer. Though students stay motivated by learning what they want to know, Grace Note instructors still hold them to high standards regarding technique and presentation.

Whether a student is learning a Garth Brooks song or Mozart’s “Requiem,” Farmer makes sure they stay true to the original sound of the song or piece they are learning.

“I’ve got a couple of kids that are already writing music, and they’re like 12 and 13,” says George, excited about the improvement his students

have been making. He adds, “It’s kind of like a create-your-0wn adventure story. I’m not going to force feed you Beethoven or Bach Cello Suite. If you don’t want to do that, we’ll learn Nirvana.” George considers his lessons quite memorable, especially when he teaches pairs. He has a brother and sister combo, as well as a father and son that enjoy taking lessons together. “Those are pretty special lessons,” he says. Some of his students are reaching a point where they are ready to become teachers, and George hopes to instill in his advanced students the love of teaching to the same degree that he has already gifted them the love of learning an instrument.

It’s no secret learning a musical instrument can aid a student’s progression in other academic subjects, as well as cultivating confidence and discipline, but developing the skill of music isn’t just reserved for the young. Farmer believes that once you start playing music you’re a musician for the rest of your life whether you are 6 years old, the age of their youngest student, or the age of their oldest student, 88. Adult clients are harder on themselves than young students because they have had a longer lifetime of listening to their favorite music, but a rule of thumb when learning anything new is to be patient with yourself, particularly because music is meant to be healing. “I think that music is a really amazing way to process our emotions,” notes Naquin, finishing with “I think it just creates a culture of more emotionally intelligent people.”

Playing for the joy of it will always show, and it is Farmer’s wish that his students get confident enough to share their craft with others: “Whenever you’re playing an instrument, and you’re playing it for people that don’t know how to play an instrument, you’re giving them something they can’t get any other way.”

It’s a testament to Grace Note that local musicians have been sending their kids to learn from Farmer’s team. “His warmth, compassion, and patience guide the youngsters and adults towards achieving their guitar goals,” reads one stellar Facebook review from a fellow musician whose son surpassed his own knowledge. Already enrolled into Louisiana Tech’s music program, the budding WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2021 29

“The main thing I would love for people to know is that Grace Note is a tightly knit team,” says Farmer, referring to his teachers as close friends and some even bandmates.

musician was easily playing classical pieces on his acoustic guitar, as much as he was flowing through AC/DC and Led Zeppelin on his electric guitar, all thanks to Farmer’s keen instruction. Another local musician raves about Farmer’s percussion instructor Tyler Schweinefus (who is also Percussion and Jazz Band Director at Neville High School): “Tyler has been teaching my 8 year old daughter how to play the drums for a few months now and she’s gotten good enough to jam with! He’s teaching her how to have fun with the drums while throwing in little techniques here and there. It’s more fun than work.” Browsing through the detailed reviews left on Grace Note’s Facebook page, it’s clear that Farmer has established a level of trust with his clients that merits their patronage.

“The main thing I would love for people to know is that Grace Note is a tightly knit team,” says Farmer, referring to his teachers as close friends and some even bandmates. Naquin seconds this sentiment saying, “We’re all friends, and we all support each other. There’s no trying to be better than each other, even with the other teachers that teach the same thing.” It’s difficult for Farmer to look back and pick the exact moment that motivated him to open Grace Note. There wasn’t any such moment for him, as much as the calling was a natural next step: “I can’t imagine doing anything else.” Regardless of the impetus for establishing the academy, Farmer’s current motivation is his students, making sure they are not only enjoying their instruments, but also building an appreciation for music that we all know will last a lifetime.

Grace Note Music Academy is located at 3101 Armand St #7, Monroe, LA 71201. Call them at (318) 732-4338 to schedule a lesson and follow them on Facebook to become acquainted with their instructors and students.

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BAYOUOUTDOORS

HUNTING 101 ARTICLE BY DAN CHASON

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ecoming a parent made me want to leave something for tomorrow.

Becoming a grandparent made me want to leave something for generations.

When people ask “why do I hunt” the answer to me is simple in my daily life. I enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. I enjoy the harvesting of fish and game for my consumption. But those needs and likes dim in comparison to what I want to leave for the next generation.

The greatest conservationist I ever met was George Franklin, II. I don’t recall a single time ever seeing Mr. George that he did not have a load of trees to plant in his truck and trailer. He planted every sort of tree you can imagine. Every type of tree that fed or nourished wildlife, trees to prevent erosion and trees to provide cover to the critters that called his woods home. Mr. George planted primarily hard woods. Trees that over his lifetime never matured but today provide daily shade and shelter as well as a food source to the animals and people enjoying his efforts.

Why I hunt is biblical. “Arise, kill and eat” was the command from the Almighty and many like-minded people like me enjoy the inalienable rights afforded by our Constitution to hunt and fish. Tax dollars do not fund my efforts and every dollar spent by hunters in the purchase of tags and licenses are earmarked to go directly to the agencies who manage and regulate our sport. What

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most people do not understand or remember is how this all came to be in America.

In the 1800s it was common for market hunters to slay thousands of animals just for the reward of dollars for their meat and hides.

When President McKinley was assassinated and against public scrutiny, we were blessed by the elevation of the Vice President to the highest office in the land, and his name was Teddy Roosevelt. President Roosevelt was solely responsible for the earmarking of millions of acres of land to become national forests and preserves. He saw that if we did not save something for tomorrow, there would be no game left to hunt. After his years in office and through a World War, President Franklin D. Roosevelt followed his lead and established protections for our wildlife that are still in place today.

When the Pittman-Robertson Act was established, we now had a method to not only protect wildlife, but we had a manner to finance it via the very people who enjoyed the sport. Had these men not looked to the future, you and I would not have anywhere to hunt today.

The other question asked is “how can you kill an animal?” Nature in all of its wisdom has a pecking order. From small game to the largest, all of them have predators, naturally placed there for one reason, to regulate and manage the population. What we are seeing today, in particularly deer hunting, is the onslaught of a disease called CWD or chronic wasting disease. This is

primarily found in areas with large deer populations. Without human intervention, this disease will continue to grow. Look also at the wild hog. The wild hog population has exploded for one big reason. Hogs have no natural predators in the US as they are not a native species to North America. Their only predator is man... the hunter. Should no one trap or hunt the hog, their populations would grow to the level of inhabiting areas populated by humans. Subdivisions, towns and your local streets would soon see these eating and breeding machines, right in your backyard. By nature’s law there is a pecking order, and I sit on top of that line.

Most don’t see the pure reason we hunt.

I will admit there are two types of people who call themselves hunters. There are the ethical and there are the non-ethical hunters.

The latter to me aren’t really hunters. They go into the woods and appear to be one but when all is said and done they are just killers. Wanting to shoot something with little regard for conservation, management or for the future. These “hunters” are the ones who think nothing of shooting a deer from the road, after hours, with unethical manners (thermal scopes, suppressors for deer) and after harvesting an animal, never even get their hands dirty. They take their photo, post it on Facebook and call themselves a hunter.

A real hunter challenges themselves. They spend much more time working the land and hunting than they do actually hunting. They share this experience with others and take a kid, a veteran or an elderly person with them to give back. They clean their own game and donate parts of it to the less fortunate.

They don’t trash up the roads and woods with empty grain bags and are the first one to volunteer to help someone track or drag a deer for a friend. They don’t break game laws even when they could and never worry about being checked by a warden because they are harder on themselves than the law ever could be. These are hunters.

I attempt to pound this into the hearts and minds of my grandsons. The hunt is not about shooting something. It is not about seeing that big buck. It is about the solitude and comfort of a cold morning, listening to the wood ducks make their way into the slough.

It is about faith, family and friends. Sharing what we have with others and inviting nonhunters to join so they can better understand why we do what we do. Yes, I am a hunter. I am blessed to have this desire to be outdoors and to enjoy what our forefathers left us. I am blessed beyond measure and happy to be in the group who share this love for the great outdoors.

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I

R E M E M B E R

T H E A F F E C T I O N B R O U G H T O N B Y VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY

love was completely selfless. His

I REMEMBER how, when we love was concerned with seeking were in elementary school and when what was best for its object. He did Valentine’s Day rolled around, we not love for what He could get, but would give a valentine to the person for what He could give. This is the on whom we had a “crush.” That same type of love that we see in was prompted by what is called His Father of Whom the Bible says, “Puppy Love.” This level and type “God so loved the world that He of emotion is appropriate for the GAVE His only Son.” Jesus loved so very young -- and causes one to act deeply that He sacrificed His life to like someone who is very young. provide forgiveness for our sins and The youthful lad will “show off” to to reconcile us to God. This cost Him impress his valentine, whereas the OUR HOMES, OUR COMMUNITIES, deeply, but it brought great benefit adolescent lassie will often pretend to us. that she has no interest in the boy OUR WORLD WOULD BE BETTER Are we not fortunate when we she wants for her valentine.

PLACES IF MORE WERE GIVERS have someone who wants the best

The “Puppy Love” time of one’s RATHER THAN TAKERS – IF WE ALL for us, even if it might cost that life is eventually put aside and is person in some way? And is there a replaced with a different expression LOVED SELFLESSLY.” better way to build a happy marriage of affection. Too frequently, this than when the husband wants the stage of ardor is more self-centered best for his wife, and when the wife instead of being self-giving. This phase of our experiencing “love” wants what is best for her mate? Consider how stronger a friendship is characterized by seeking to have a relationship where our desire would be if both parties sought to be a blessing to the other. is to realize benefit from the other person – the underlying thought

A special aspect of this selfless love is that the one showing that is “How can I profit from this relationship?” The result of this kind love does so whether or not the person he loves reciprocates. This of thinking is that we choose our partners based on such things as love comes with no strings attached – Jesus gave His life for us “while wealth, popularity, looks, or even scholastic achievement. There is we were still sinners.” (Romans 5:8 – “God demonstrates His love for nothing wrong with these things, but they may not be matched by us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”) He shows admirable character.

His love prior to any response from us. His love is unconditional;

Unfortunately, too often this brand of “love” does not fade away ours should be the same. as does “Puppy Love.” In fact, it can last a lifetime. Many marriages

At this time of year when there is a special focus on love, let us have failed because one of the partners, or both of them, is looking for each love his/her valentine (and everyone else) with a selfless love what he or she can gain from the other. Friendships have been ruined that desires the best for its object. Our homes, our communities, our where this kind of love is present. It is regrettable that practically world would be better places if more were givers rather than takers every one of us has a big supply of this feeling.

– if we all loved selflessly.

What do YOU think love, in its supreme form, should look like?

Recently I have been the recipient of such love. My wife is in a If we want to love in the most excellent way, where can we find a serious battle against cancer. During this time, my family, our church, pattern by which we can attempt to shape the way we express our and other friends have been generous with their selfless love. What a love to others? Allow me to recommend to you that we go to the blessing this has been! May God help us all to love like that. example set by Jesus of Nazareth. What sets Him apart is that His

ar t i c le b y PAU L L I PE o p in io n e x p re s s e d is t h a t o f t h e w r it e r

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Start Smiling Early!

Tips for Early Childhood Dentistry

HOW EARLY IS TOO EARLY TO SEE A DENTIST?

There are different recommendations for parents regarding when children should visit the dentist for the first time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a child should see a dentist by age one or six months after their first tooth appears. Typically, most children will visit the dentist for the first time by age three. It is important for parents to talk with their child’s pediatrician and/or dentist to determine the specific dental needs of each child.

HOW CAN I EASE MY CHILD’S FEARS?

Some experts believe that waiting to take a child to the dentist can escalate fears and anxiety. Let’s face it even adults can be scared of going to the dentist! No matter if a child is visiting a dentist for the first time or if they have frequent appointments, there is a good chance their nerves will get the best of them. One way to help calm the dentist jitters is to show them what a dentist visit is all about. Bring your child along to your next dentist appointment and let them see mom or dad get an exam. Another recommendation is to allow extra time for that first visit.

This way, the visit is not rushed or chaotic. A stressed or rushed parent can rub off negative effect on a child. Also, make sure your child is well rested. A well rested child is more likely to feel relaxed and comfortable.

CONSIDER MORE CALCIUM FOR YOUR CHILD Calcium from Vitamin D not only supports strong bones in children, it also supports the growth of your child’s teeth. Parents should consider a calcium supplement that can be prescribed by their pediatrician or look for foods that are rich in calcium to include at meal time. Foods like egg yolks and fish are rich with the nutrient. Broccoli, kale, and collard greens are some great vegetable options. As for fruits, you can consider adding kiwis, oranges, or dates. Of course, sunlight is a fun options for boosting your child’s Vitamin D, and will likely lead to less fussy meal times.

DON’T THOSE TEETH JUST FALL OUT ANYWAY?

Yes. Eventually a child will lose their “baby teeth.” However, it is very important that primary teeth are properly cared for throughout a child’s development. Having healthy primary teeth will help children maintain adequate nutrition due to proper chewing methods.

Maintaining healthy teeth can also aid in speech development. It is also 36 FEBRUARY 2021 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

important to keep primary teeth as long as possible. These teeth help save space for permanent teeth which will develop as a child grows.

THE TOOTH FAIRY’S COST PER TOOTH CONTINUES TO RISE

As demand continues to climb for baby teeth, tooth fairies around the world are paying more per tooth than ever before. According to the Delta Dental Provider’s “2020 Original Tooth Fairy Poll,” the national average for the cost per tooth has jumped to $4.03 from $3.73. The trend is expected increase each year. The teeth that bring in the most cash, are those that are healthiest. The tooth fairy recommends a good routine of brushing and flossing.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD WE SEE THE DENTIST?

Frequency of dental visits depend on the child. Those with little risk of cavities and gum disease should visit their dentist once or twice year. Higher risk patients should visit a dentist every three to four months. Higher risk patients include those with a personal or family history of oral issues and/or heart disease.

Call NELA Dental to schedule your child’s check up or their very first visit. Our friendly team of dentists is ready to get your child started with good dental habits. We offer flexible appointment times at three convenient locations. Our offices are located in Monroe, Farmerville, and Oak Grove. Our dentists are ready to help guide you and your family to a strong smile and healthy living.

Reaching out to NELA Dental at an early age is a great way to start on a path to a healthy smile for life. The five dentists at NELA have the expertise needed to guide you through treatment that will be most beneficial for your child. They are well credentialed in the practice of dentistry, and for your convenience offer three locations in northeast Louisiana in Monroe, Farmerville, and Oak Grove.

For your comfort, NELA Dental offers sedation dentistry options that fit your preferences including mild nitrous oxide (sometimes referred to as “laughing gas”), an oral anti-anxiety sedation medication, and is one of few offices offering Intravenous Conscious Sedation (“IV sedation.”)

So when basic cleanings just aren’t enough, talk with someone at NELA Dental, and ask questions to find out more about their multiple services. You may visit them online at NELADental.com.

Celebrate Everything!

The Paper Market Celebrates Valentine’s Day, Mardi Gras and More

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OVE IS IN THE AIR AND THAT SAYING IS CERTAINLY true at The Paper Market in Monroe! The locally owned store specializes in party supplies, paper and balloons and are ready for all Cupid has planned this month. “Balloons are always popular for Valentine’s Day because they are fun for people of all ages spouses, significant others, kids, grandkids and more,” explains Amy Robinson, owner of The Paper Market. The staff at The Paper Market has expanded their balloon selection and it includes a variety of mylar options, as well as latex, to create the perfect balloon bouquet for that special someone. And these aren’t your basic balloon bouquets. “We are excited to offer all kinds of ways to customize your balloons, from adding tassels, filling balloons with confetti or even adding vinyl for that extra personalization and customization,” said Amy. Not only have they expanded their selection, but The Paper Market is excited to announce that you can now select your balloons online on their website - www.papermarketmonroe.com. “This is going to be able to save people time and allow them to shop from the comfort of their own home or on their phone!” said Amy. In addition to balloons, The Paper Market has a variety of “happies,” snacks and favors that make a special Valentine’s Day treat. If you are looking for a special Valentine’s Day treat for a child’s classroom, check out the selection at The Paper Market. They have cards with toys, paint kits favors and more. You can also grab a snack pack - a cellophane bag filled with goodies and topped with a small balloon. New items this year include a Valentine’s Day themed cornucopia filled with fun items like a tissue crown, party popper, glitter candle, bubbles, a surprise ball and more. There’s also a candy leis that features fun paper flowers and decor and is filled with assorted candy and treats.

Since Valentine’s Day falls on a weekend this year, The Paper Market will be open on Saturday, February 13th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, February 14th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. They will also be offering a delivery service where you can have your balloons, snack packs, treats and more delivered directly to your Valentine’s home or work, with a small delivery charge.

Valentine’s Day isn’t the only holiday this month - there’s also Mardi Gras! And just because there may not be traditional parades rolling, you can still celebrate! The Paper Market has an assortment of decorations like masks, lights and garland that you can decorate your

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house with.

Maybe you plan to parade around the neighborhood with your kids and family. The Paper Market has a float kit so you can dress up your wagon and get it ready to roll. If you are just celebrating the fact that we can still eat King Cake, be sure to grab festive plates, napkins, cups and table runners so you can celebrate in style. You can also dress the part with crowns, hats, beads, glasses, masks, socks, tights and more, all available at The Paper Market.

Another reason to celebrate in Louisiana is the fact that crawfish are back! The Paper Market has everything you need to host an outdoor crawfish boil. There’s paper and plastic table covers to make cleaning up a breeze. There’s also mudbug themed plates and napkins that feature fun sayings like - “Belle of the Boil” and “Let’s Get Cray!” You can decorate with inflatable crawfish, pendants, balloons and directional signage to ensure your crawfish is as festive as it is delicious.

The Paper Market believes in celebrating everything and that starts at the front door! They are excited to carry door hangers from Home Malone, a local retailer from New Orleans. The hand painted wooden door hangers feature fleur de Lis, crawfish and will have Easter themes soon. Dr. Seuss’ birthday is just around the corner on March 2nd and schools will celebrate National Read Across America by donning Seuss character items. The Paper Market has items to decorate the classroom like props, bulletin board decor and paper hats. Plus, you can grab Thing 1 and Thing 2 hats and wigs, Cat in the Hat headbands, Grinch hats and a variety of Seuss themed socks, masks and more.

With more events being held outside, people are looking for disposable party ware that is more casual and easier to clean up. The Paper Market has an entire selection of items from plates, napkins, utensils and serving ware as well as sauce cups, ice buckets, platters and more. Of course, they have a variety of themed items for kids parties, backyard fiestas, wedding showers, baby announcements and showers. No matter the theme, you can always find coordinating plates, utensils, napkins, cups and tablecloths in every color of the rainbow.

Whether you are shopping in the store, browsing their selection online or picking up your order curbside, The Paper Market can help you celebrate it all!

Meredith’s Musings

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article by M E R E DIT H MCK I N N I E

e want our children to be happy. It’s probably what parents want most for their children. But genuine happiness is tricky and rarely constant.

Often happiness involves soul searching, enduring hardship, and coming to appreciate life’s simplicities.

As a mother, I think about the laundry list of attributes I’m supposed to cultivate in my children. I want them to be humble, yet bold. Can they be both? I want them to find joy, even if the source makes me uncomfortable.

I want them to know I’m in their corner, but that the corner is assuredly theirs to navigate. I need to stay out of their way most of all. So much of what I feel necessary contradicts something else. I stay confused most of the time.

If I had to pinpoint the two qualities I desire most for them, they would be curiosity and kindness, with the latter reigning supreme. We hear it all the time, “Be kind to one another.” It’s so simple, yet too often ignored. Kindness is rarely a dramatic gesture. Often, it’s tucked away in shy smiles, unexpected recognition, and minor daily sacrifice. I make sure my daughter sees me put the shopping cart in the corral. I compliment and thank her daddy in her presence. I haven’t been adamant about “please” and “thank you,” but somewhere along the way she picked it up and quotes the phrases unprompted. I am teaching her a respect for other people, trying to explain why whenever we hurt someone, regardless of intent, we must take accountability and consider other people’s feelings.

Empathy is imperative in raising responsible citizens. I don’t shy away from suffering or shield her from others’ hurt. To understand it, she must see it. For one day, she too will feel it and perhaps remember.

Admittedly, kindness is not my strong suit. I practice kindness with strangers but can be hard on the people I love most. I guess this comes from expecting more out of loved ones than they may be capable of in that moment. I’m working on this. When a phone call brings out my rage, my daughter will often ask, “Why you mad, Mommy?” She picks up on my anger and often reacts similarly when frustrated. When she couldn’t get a doll’s shirt removed, she beat the doll against the toy box. When her little sister grabs a bite of her snack, she pushes her away instead

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of offering her another taste. I don’t want to raise a child who takes it out on other people or feels compelled to violently punish her beloved “friend” dolls. I am beginning to pause, sit down, and talk about her feelings. I want her response to be wrapped in kindness, and I can do more of this myself.

Curiosity comes more naturally to me. I read and receive constantly, even when the truth contradicts my internal bias. More information is always welcome, and I believe an evolution of thought is indicative of personal growth. When we know better, we do better. Sometimes instinct suggests too much information can confuse a child, but I don’t think so. My daughter’s favorite phrase is “Why?” And parents will insist the constant demand for explanation can be taxing. Sometimes she repeats the request after I’ve answered. That’s when I know my response was not sufficient. As a teacher, I know the importance of clarity. I should be clear with my own kids as well. I try to answer her questions honestly and completely, pretending no word is too big. My husband and I laugh when she repeats a word we’ve been saying recently; we high-five when it’s used in context. When she randomly commented yesterday, “You’re getting on my nerves!” we said in unison, “That’s YOUR child.”

I remember mothers and fathers promising such exchanges would happen, but I didn’t know I’d enjoy them so much.

A professor friend of mine is raising a daughter. She’s fourteen, going on 35. He mentioned a moment of pride, when she asked if he had seen a certain NYTimes article that morning. He hadn’t seen it, but he beamed knowing his daughter had and that she thought he should.

Regardless of the content, she was educating herself, in her free time, and felt comfortable enough to prompt discussion with her father.

If we teach our kids to arm themselves with information, we can be more comfortable with the choices they make. At least their decisions are informed. We can’t just leave learning at school. We must practice education at home. And I’m not talking about homework as much as demonstrating and respecting knowledge. The more information we give them, the more they can see its value. And eventually, they will seek knowledge out for knowledge’s sake. Curiosity is the cornerstone of learning, and while we have their attention and know they’re watching us, we too should practice what we preach. It’s okay to say, “Honey, I don’t know...but let’s try and find out.”

My daughters are three and one, and I have a lot to learn myself. But I rest easy knowing that I don’t know it all but am not afraid to strive for better and change course when necessary. I hope to raise little girls who want to know more, continue asking “Why” and allow themselves and others kindness along the way.

BAYO U E AT S

WHERE EVERY FLAVOR HAS A STORY

Monica Smith’s family-owned and operated small batch bake shop, Bake 318, specializes in fresh, from scratch sweet and savory treats meant to satisfy anytime a craving hits.

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

Unpopular opinion--we don’t need dessert; really, we merely desire dessert, expecting at the end of a savory meal something sweet to satisfy more than just our palates. Recognizing this emotional tie to our favorite part of a meal, Monica Smith, owner of Bake318, adopted for her business the maxim, “Where every flavor has a story.” By this, she refers to the memories tied to food, “especially if you come from a big family where that’s part of the culture.” Not only is food nostalgic, but making a meal for someone is a praiseworthy love language.

When someone makes you dessert, serves you a sweet parcel of ingredients meant to indulge your senses rather than nourish you, well, that can be akin to a tender hug or a kiss on the lips. Though you shouldn’t expect anyone to hug or kiss you at Smith’s family-owned and operated sweet factory (because… well, social distancing), this small batch bake shop specializes in fresh, from scratch sweet and savory treats meant to satisfy anytime a craving hits.

Smith is from Rayville, Louisiana, and was a teacher there for about 14 years. It was in the classroom that her baked goods started to gain some traction with the ideal customer--her students. She would have baking parties at school, and began rewarding them with treats. Steadily, she turned her hobby, which started out as “a stress reliever,” into a successful side-business. When she met the man that would later become her husband, she moved to Ouachita Parish, but a hiring freeze forced her to look at other job options. After turning in applications to a few local bakeries, one of them 44 FEBRUARY 2021 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

snatched her up. It was there she was able to learn the ins and outs of running a bakery, but particularly she began to notice the kind of delicacies that kept people coming back. When the opportunity to open Bake318 presented itself in January of last year, little did she know that she would find herself starting a business during a worldwide pandemic. Luckily, nothing says “Everything is going to be okay” quite like a baked good, and the months of quarantine thankfully didn’t affect the start-up.

“My grandmother and mom have always been very good cooks,” says Smith, recalling the first bake she learned to make was a southern tea cake; her grandmother’s recipe. Growing up, there was always dessert on the table after dinner. Mostly, it was something her family did for fun, especially when she would give her grandmother a helping hand.

Yet, her grandmother seemed to be communicating a valuable lesson to Smith about putting in the extra effort to make the guests at her table feel valued and special. “I don’t want to get emotional,” warns Smith before delving into a childhood memory about her grandmother’s role in what has become her passion.

She explains that one of the reasons there was always dessert on the dinner table was because her grandmother wanted to make something sweet for everybody she knew was coming over. She had some grandsons that liked her Texas sheet cake, so she would make one. If Smith’s uncle came to visit, his favorite would be waiting--chocolate pie without the meringue. “It was always something for everybody,” says Smith, who has carried that legacy to Bake318.

Monica Smith’s daughter bakes with her, Smith’s cousin can occasionally be found running the front of the shop, and even Smith’s 16 year-old son, who has followed in her footsteps becoming quite the baker himself, has been thrown into the baking frenzy now and again.

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he amount of sweets available makes it near impossible to choose just one--brownies, cookies, cookie cakes, chocolate-covered strawberries, petit fours, macarons, and more.

The largest selection of flavors can be found in a sweet most people can never say no to, cupcakes! At Bake318 they come in three different sizes--mini, regular, and jumbo.

Delicious and hand-decorated, customers can select from classic flavors like chocolate, yellow cake, black forest, and red velvet, or venture into bolder flavors like coconut, pineapple, and butter pecan. Not only do they feature a flavor of the day, but seasonal recipes rotate in and out of the menu. Smith’s current favorite is the king cake cupcake with cream cheese icing. Like most Bake318 treats, the cookies are made from scratch daily and feature Smith’s take on some classic and inventive flavors like chocolate chip (another Smith favorite), ultimate oatmeal raisin, toffee butter pecan, chewy toasted coconut, and soft molasses.

One of the more unexpected sweets found at Bake318 is a French classic, macarons. Don’t let these tiny meringue-based confections fool you, they are quite the little rascals to perfect. Made with egg white, icing, sugar, almond meal, and food coloring, it’s easy to vary flavors that pack a scrumptious punch. Smith perfected her macarons using Youtube videos, “lots of videos.” Customer favorites include the vanilla, strawberry, coffee caramel, cookie butter, and cotton candy varieties, but the king cake flavored macaron is taking center stage with purple, gold, and green exterior and a cinnamon buttercream center. When it comes to macarons, “you can do anything,” explains Smith, who doesn’t shy away from playing with flavors. Another unexpected popular item has been Smith’s hot cocoa bombs. This end-of-the-year trend is apt for the kind of year we have had, releasing a bit of sweet just in time for cold weather. Recently she added a twist to these transformative treats, cappuccino bombs! “They work exactly like cocoa bombs and are every bit as delicious. Ya know, with an extra punch of caffeine.”

At the heart of the Bake318 operation is the sweet item that holds special occasions together; be it birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries, we all want to eat cake! Smith’s customized cakes are not only greatly desired by customers, but keep getting more elaborate by the order. One of the most challenging cakes made at the shop is the Doberge (dough-bash) cake. This confectionery delight originated in New Orleans and is made of six to seven layers of cake and dessert pudding. “Those are very heavy. They’re complicated because you can mess up so many elements and then you’re in a bind,” says Smith. Usually, customers know exactly what they want, and have introduced Smith to cakes she otherwise wouldn’t have considered making.

One such novelty that Smith had to figure out was a geode cake. These cakes are a marvel to look at, as they are meant to mimic the stunning rock formation lined with crystals. To complete the effect, Smith had to carve chunks of the cake from the finished product, then fill the cut-outs with edible crystals. She has also

learned to use metallic icing, used mostly for drip cakes. They are as popular as they were difficult to learn. “The metallic cake has been quite a challenge.

It’s hard to find because you have to order all these specialty products, and that’s trial and error,” admits Smith. The most enjoyable cakes to make thus far have been gender reveal cakes. Smith finds it thrilling to be handed an envelope, the contents of which are only privy to her and an OB-GYN.

Considering the bakery an extension of both her kitchen at home and her own heart, it wasn’t far-fetched for Smith to start a lunch menu. Mostly serving hearty comfort food like chicken pot pie soup with homemade biscuit, shrimp po boy sliders, and chicken and dumplings, their meals are increasing in popularity.

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Of course, before the baby and the baby carriage, first comes love! For the month of February, Bake318 is gearing up to create desserts fit for two. “Sharing something with the same fork, there’s something sexy about it,” gushes Smith. To appease those struck by Cupid’s arrow, Smith is creating a 4 inch, chocolate covered strawberry cake, as well as a heart-shaped mirror glaze cake.

“I was pretty impressed with myself when I learned how to do the mirror glaze,” she beams, and rightfully so as mirror glaze is a show-stopping technique that makes any dessert look refined. “I have this heartshaped pan and it looks like a faceted jewel when it comes out of the pan. And, then you pour that mirror glaze over and it’s just the coolest thing ever.”

Considering the bakery an extension of both her kitchen at home and her own heart, it wasn’t far-fetched for Smith to start a lunch menu. Mostly serving hearty comfort food like chicken pot pie soup with homemade biscuit, shrimp po boy sliders, and chicken and dumplings, their meals are increasing in popularity, so much so that some days they sell out. Though the lunch menu changes every week, popular items will stay on repeat at least once or twice a month.

Being a Bake318 customer is like becoming part of the Smith family. Her daughter bakes with her, Smith’s cousin can occasionally be found running the front of the shop, and even Smith’s 16 year-old son, who has followed in her footsteps becoming quite the baker himself, has been thrown into the baking frenzy now and again.

Additionally, from her days baking as a side business to her new venture with the shop, she’s watched many kids grow up. Gender reveal cakes turned into baby shower cakes, and bridal shower treats into wedding cakes. “You get to know people over time,” says Smith, grateful that sharing something as simple as dessert has translated into a microcosm of human experience. Like her grandmother, who is now 90 years old, Smith is in the business of nourishing people--body, mind, and soul… and sweet tooth.

Bake318 is located at 4900 Cypress St Suite 1, West Monroe, LA 71291. It is open Tuesday through Friday between 10 AM and 6 PM, and Saturday between 9 AM to 3 PM. Visit their website https://www.bake318la.com to browse all their treats and follow them on Facebook to keep up with specialty items.

The largest selection of flavors can be found in a sweet most people can never say no to, cupcakes! At Bake318 they come in three different sizes--mini, regular, and jumbo.

Delicious and handdecorated, customers can select from classic flavors like chocolate, yellow cake, black forest, and red velvet, or venture into bolder flavors like coconut, pineapple, and butter pecan.

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Turning to Cloud Based Phone

Cloud-Based Phone Systems Are a Top Tech Trend for Businesses in Monroe and Alexandria

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HERE ARE SEVERAL REASONS BUSINESS LEADERS ARE turning to cloud-based phone systems – officially called Voice Over Internet Protocol, or VOIP – as their small business phone system.

Primarily it reduces operational expenses while providing significant advantages over traditional telephone switching (PBX) equipment. Most businesses save approximately 50 percent on their monthly phone bill.

TRACKING THE 8 ADVANTAGES OF VOIP

In a world where connectivity is key for marketing, production, and most business processes, VOIP provides a strategic way to communicate without compromising the bottom line.

In particular, let’s take a closer look at the advantages VOIP phone systems bring to small and medium-sized businesses (SMB).

1. Cost Savings are Generous

Every business likes to save money. VOIP is most often more cost effective than traditional phone systems.

With traditional PBX equipment, companies must maintain expensive infrastructure to provide uninterrupted service. VOIP, however, functions using in-place internet access, removing the need to maintain costly equipment.

Additionally, VOIP can eliminate long-distance charges for international calls, since you’re using the internet to connect. It also provides features like voice mail, video conferencing, and video calling — all part of its basic functionality.

2. Scalability is Simple

Need to add lines for new employees? It’s no longer a hassle. You can simply add them. No need to purchase additional hardware. This is perfect for scaling up — or down — at a moment’s notice, giving the flexibility to pivot quickly and address market changes.

3. Moving is Easy

If your company — or your team members— are on the move, VOIP moves with them. Simply unplug your phone and plug it in at your new location for instant service. Numbers stay the same so customers don’t experience any lag in service.

4. Installation is a Breeze

Most VOIP providers can use your existing internet connections and network for their systems, eliminating the need to run additional wires or purchase expensive infrastructure.

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5. It’s Feature-Rich

VOIP provides a wide variety of features and functions that come standard with the service. Voicemail to email, conference calling, Caller ID functions, and voice messaging are included.

6. It’s Always Up-to-Date

With traditional equipment, updates only happen if you have a maintenance contract. Not only that, but they’re also typically expensive.

VOIP equipment is under constant maintenance and new features, software updates, security patches, and integrations are performed on a regular basis.

7. Integration is Standard

With VOIP, typical applications such as Skype for Business, Outlook, and Gmail give you the option to connect contacts for seamless integration.

8. No Power? No Problem!

Don’t let a power outage take down your company’s productivity level or interfere with customer services. VOIP providers have multiple data centers across the globe, so they can use cell phone routing to make calls happen — even if your power is out.

RJ YOUNG CAN HELP YOU STAY CONNECTED WITH VOIP

RJ Young understands how important it is to stay connected with team members and customers alike – especially in today’s remote working environment. That’s why we stand behind our stellar VOIP services, as they offer considerable advantages over traditional telecommunications systems for the modern business,”

“When your business needs to communicate 24/7, VOIP offers you the flexibility and power of any device, anywhere, to stay connected to customers and coworkers. You can choose from features such as fax, voice messaging, and even SMS text applications. And, because VOIP services leverage IP networks, these services are available to you and your employees anywhere you have an internet connection,” said Brian Matthews, Account Executive, RJ Young – Monroe, Louisiana.

Choose a modern telecommunications system that will take your business farther — for less. Contact your local RJ Young representative in Monroe or Alexandria today and get started saving money — and making connections!

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FROM DAKOTA DOWN TO MEXICO Historical Impressions

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

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o one really knows the origin of the name. There are theories as to why the name was created but there is nothing that can be confirmed. No one even knows who was responsible for the name. All that seems certain is some tribe or band of Native Americans started to call these men by this name and the use of the name somehow spread wide enough to become entrenched as the nickname by which the men were known. The men were members of four United States Army Regiments. They were called the Buffalo Soldiers.

By the time the Civil War had ended, more than 180,000 black soldiers had fought in the Union Army. In the summer of 1866 Congress reorganized the peacetime regular army. The legislators recognized the military merits of black soldiers by authorizing two regiments of black cavalry, the 9th United States Cavalry and the 10th United States Cavalry, and six regiments of black infantry.

The six black infantry regiments were eventually consolidated into two units by 1869, the 24th United States Infantry and the 25th United States Infantry.

Although the Army did recognize the value of these black soldiers, this was still the 19th century and equality and civil rights had a long way to go. The black regiments were commanded exclusively by white officers until Henry O. Flipper, the first black graduate of West Point, was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the 10th Cavalry.

The Buffalo Soldiers’ assigned duties were to patrol the frontier, protect settlers, build roads and other infrastructure, and guard the U.S. mail. To achieve these objectives they were stationed at a variety of posts in the Southwest and Great Plains, often in small company or troop-sized detachments. These soldiers had to overcome prejudice within the army and also from the frontier communities where they were stationed. The best way to do this was to

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compile an outstanding service record.

As Army units posted to the frontier, the Buffalo Soldiers fought with distinction in many significant battles. They were active participants in more than thirty years of bloody combat Buffalo soldiers were involved in conflicts against the Cheyenne in Kansas, the long and brutal Apache war of the late 1870s and early 1880s, and the last major campaign at Pine Ridge, South Dakota during 1890-1891. It is a bit confusing to sort through the listings of campaigns and battles but in the years between 1866 and 1897 Buffalo Soldiers fought somewhere between 135 and 163 battles and skirmishes against the Cheyenne, Kiowa, Comanche, Apache, Sioux, and Arapaho Indians.

In addition to the conflicts with Native Americans, Buffalo Soldiers played significant roles in many other military actions. They helped defuse the 1892 Johnson County War in Wyoming in which owners of small farms fought for their livelihood against wealthy ranchers and a band of hired gunmen. Buffalo Soldiers also fought in the Spanish-American and Philippine-American Wars, and helped maintain border security along the U.S.-Mexico border during the Mexican Revolution. The 10th Cavalry also fought in the 1918 Battle of Ambos Nogales which resulted in the surrender of the Mexican federal and militia forces.

During their campaigns in the Indian Wars, thirteen Buffalo Soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor. The exceptional performance by these men helped to overcome resistance to the idea of black Army officers and resulted in black Cadets such as Henry Flipper being admitted to West Point Military Academy.

Unfortunately increasing discrimination in the early 20th century impacting the ongoing role of the Buffalo Soldiers. The racial policies of President Woodrow Wilson resulted in black regiments being excluded from the American Expeditionary Force

during World War I. Instead they were placed under French command for the duration of the war. This marked the first time that American troops had been put under the command of a foreign power. With the onset of World War II the 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments were reassigned to noncombat service duties. The 92nd Infantry Division, known as the “Buffalo Division,” did see combat during the World War II invasion of Italy, however, and the Buffalo Soldier 25th Infantry Regiment fought in the Pacific. The last segregated Army regiments were finally disbanded during the Korean War and their soldiers were integrated into other units.

Despite their diminished combat role in the early and mid 1900s, Buffalo Soldiers were still able to make significant impacts that could not be ignored. Recognized as exceptional horsemen, black noncommissioned officers of the 9th Cavalry trained West Point Cadets in riding skills and tactics from 1907 until 1947. Buffalo Soldiers also served as some of the first national park rangers when the Army was the official administrator of the Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks between 1891 and 1913. They were responsible for the construction of park infrastructure such the first trail to the top of Mount Whitney (the highest mountain in the contiguous United States) and the first road into the Giant Forest of Sequoia National Park. Along the way these soldiers protected the parks from illegal grazing, poachers, timber thieves and wildfires. Charles Young, the third African-American graduate of West Point, was the first African-American national park superintendent when he was posted as Acting Military Superintendent of Sequoia and General Grant National Parks.

The remarkable courage demonstrated by these proud African-American soldiers in the face of fierce combat and extreme discrimination continues to be an inspiration for America’s future.

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Ford Bronco: Then and Now Local Dealership Highlights Classic Vehicle

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ANNER FORD OF MONROE IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE the return of the legendary Ford Bronco. “The Ford Bronco has such a long history with a loyal and enthusiastic customer base, we are thrilled to have it back in our Ford lineup. You will begin to see the Broncos in our showroom in late spring,” said Rick Flick, President of Banner Ford of Monroe.

The history of the Bronco is fascinating. It all started on August 11, 1965, when The Ford Motor Company announced that it had added another pony to the stable to join its big brother, the Mustang.

The Ford Bronco became the first vehicle called out specifically as a “Sports-Utility Vehicle.”

Why did Ford develop the Bronco? In addition to its other war-time production, Ford was one of three companies to produce military Jeeps. After the war, surplus Jeeps were the choice of returning veterans and outdoor enthusiasts. However, with the improving highway system and demand for a more comfortable driving environment, Ford saw the chance to design a best of class utility vehicle that could also serve as a sports vehicle. In 1962, Ford research found that both Jeep and Scout owners reported “poor comfort, ride, noise and vibration qualities” and that the size and power of both vehicles were unsatisfactory. Noting this gap in the market, Ford began development on a new vehicle, code named Bronco.”

The earliest sketches for the Bronco in July 1963 show the now familiar box-shaped vehicle with the recognizable round headlights and two door layout. The vehicle underwent constant revisions as engineers molded its features, it was neither a conventional car nor a truck, but a vehicle which combined the best of both worlds. The Bronco served as a family sedan, as a sports roadster, as a snow plow, or as a farm or civil defense vehicle. It was designed to go nearly anywhere and do nearly anything.

During its 31-year run, the Bronco became ingrained in the imagination of the public. From enthusiast clubs, to off-road groups, to numerous appearances in movies and songs, the Bronco became a cult classic. Vintage collectors have painstakingly restored their Broncos to their original condition while others were modified.

In many ways, the Bronco became a way for the owner to express

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their personality and style, but at its core, the Bronco remained a goanywhere, do-anything off-road favorite for owners who wanted to live on the wild side.

Now, the Bronco returns. True to its origins, the 2021 model is loaded with thrilling power, go-anywhere capability, and the equipment to carry true adventure seekers deep into the wild.

“There has been a lot of buzz and excitement for the Bronco’s return.

We began taking reservations last July and haven’t looked back. We haven’t seen this much excitement in a new Ford model since the 2005 Ford Mustang. This is a game changer for us.”

The 2021 Bronco is a mid-size, five passenger SUV with multiple body, door, and rooftop configurations. Rick Flick said, “the 2021 Bronco blends the best of the original with all the newest and latest technologies. In all 2021 Ford SUV’s, there are USB ports, parking sensors, and a rearview camera; the Bronco is no different. On the Bronco, there’s actually a bit more. Located on the dashboard, you’ll find an off-road switch pack that makes it easy to stay safe and own the terrain. These buttons engage the following features: trail turn assist, stability control, hazard lights, stabilizer bar disconnect, and front-rear differential lock. Other technology and amenities include dual smart charging USB ports, sliding visor vanity mirrors, a convenient media bin in the center console, six beverage holders, and rubberized floors with integrated drains that allow you to wash away dirt, snow and pet hair.”

Reserve your Ford Bronco today from Banner Ford of Monroe.

Our staff is here to help you choose your new Bronco – there are six packages to choose from: Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, Outer Banks, Badlands and Wildtrak. Make it uniquely yours by adding accessories – you can customize with a camp, bike, snow, cargo or a water package. Get out there and find your wild in America’s original sports-utility vehicle. With a legacy that can’t be broken, the entire Bronco family is designed, engineered and built for adventure.

Get ready to mount up and get dirty because the one and only legend is making its long-awaited return. The Ford Bronco-Built Wild.

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The Venue Ruston Ruston’s Newest Space for Events

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HE VENUE RUSTON HAS PROVIDED THE RUSTON community with space for celebrations of various types for over two years. The original Venue is located at the corner of Haddox Road and Highway 33. The Venue Ruston has recently expanded by opening a second location at 726 Celebrity Drive.

Both spaces are ideal for weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthday or anniversary parties, receptions, proms, baby and wedding showers, and business meetings.

The Venue at 107 Haddox Road features two large suites that can be rented separately or combined. Suite 107 has a capacity for 150-200 guests. Suite 33 will accommodate 50-100 guests. The entire building has a maximum occupancy of 299 and features a large open area for comfortable seating. The Haddox Venue has a kitchen area, two minibars, and ample parking. This location has a newly remodeled bridal suite and groom’s room, which is a highlight according to recent Venue clients!

Wedding packages include two full days of access to the space.

The Venue’s flexibility allows enough time and access to prepare for any special event, and is definitely a plus for wedding preparations!

Seating for 48 is provided for each space, with more available upon request. Also, video and slide showing capability is available for all events. The Haddox location, with its welcoming atmosphere, is a perfect space for almost any event. Future plans for late spring and early summer are to revitalize the outdoor space at Haddox Road which will offer more opportunities for outdoor receptions, cookouts, and room to gather in natural surroundings.

The Venue Ruston’s new facility is located at 726 Celebrity Drive. It has a more metropolitan feel. The total occupancy rating is 157, and the space features a total of 2400 square feet. The space is nicely decorated with wood floors, kitchen, a nice serving bar in the reception area, and additional storage space if needed. Each rental comes with tables and chairs for 48 guests, with additional tables and chairs upon request. The Venue at Celebrity Centre is located

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in Downtown Ruston and perfect for business meetings, receptions, showers and other types of parties and events. Both Venue locations feature Wi-Fi access and alcohol use is permitted on site.

The Venue leasing office is located at 151 Haddox Road in Ruston and open Monday- Friday 8-5. Appointments for showings may be scheduled by calling 318-232-7973. Additional information can be found online at www.thevenueruston.com. The Venue Ruston is under the management of Ceira Weir along with Anna Beth Brunson.

The Venue Ruston owners, Wayne and Diane Hunter, came to Ruston in 1981 and have made a significant contribution to the Ruston community by developing and building several real estate projects. Wayne and Diane take pride in providing this service to the community and are enjoying being a small part of BIG moments in people’s lives!

318-232-7973 Ceira@cdiruston.com www.rustonspaces.com www.thevenueruston.com @thevenueruston

Better For You Beers Shiner’s Low-Calorie Lineup

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

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HERE IS NO DOUBT THAT THE PAST FEW YEARS HAVE seen a major shift towards healthier lifestyles. That trend has only increased recently. People are looking more than ever for ways to integrate lighter versions of their favorite indulgences into their health-conscious lifestyles. Breweries have taken notice and there are more options than ever before.

Spoetzl Brewery is no exception. For 108 years, Spoetzl Brewery has been crafting Bavarian-inspired beers such as their classic, Shiner Bock, in the small town of Shiner, Texas. In recent years, though, the lineup has expanded and now includes several low-calorie and lowcarbohydrate options. Shiner Light Blonde, Weisse ‘N’ Easy, and Ruby Redbird represent a new breed of “better for you” beers. Along with their new hard seltzer option, Straight Shooter, these are all beverages you can enjoy without the threat of the dreaded beer gut.

Straight Shooter, the brewery’s first crafted hard seltzer, has a modest 90 calories per can with 0 grams of carbohydrates and 0 grams of sugar. Initially introduced in 2020, it comes in a variety 12 pack with four unique flavors. Grapefruit and Lime combines the flavors of fresh lime and the big, sweet grapefruit Texas is known for. This playful blend has a fun citrus bite. Lemonade is a twist on the classic.

Natural ingredients are used to create the flavor of genuine front porch lemonade with its perfect balance of tart and sweet. Mango boasts the exotic flavor of tropical mango, which comes through in every sip, transporting you to an island oasis. Wild Cherry puts the emphasis on “wild.” This refreshing favorite captures the full, sweet flavor of ripe cherries without any added sugar.

Shiner Light Blonde was first brewed in 2011. This light lager has just 99 calories and 3.8 grams of carbohydrates. It won the Bronze medal at the 2013 Australian International Beer Awards. Refreshing and crisp, it’s the perfect smooth, easy-drinking brew for just about any occasion. Shiner Light Blonde is available locally in 6 pack bottles.

Weisse ‘N’ Easy was first brewed in 2020. It is a wheat beer that is unfiltered and full flavored, but remarkably only has 95 calories and 2.9 grams of carbohydrates. Perfect on a warm day, it goes down easy, just like the name suggests. Brewed with a hint of Texas dewberries, this hazy brew is a sweet reminder to kick back and enjoy. Weisse ‘N’ Easy is available locally in 6 pack bottles.

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Ruby Redbird was first brewed in 2018. Popping the top on this brew is like slicing into a ripe Texas Ruby Red Grapefruit. A bold kick of ginger combines with the citrus for a tart, refreshing lager that’s perfect any time of year. Ruby Redbird clocks in at an impressive 95 calories and 3.1 grams of carbohydrates. Ruby Redbird is available locally in 6 pack bottles.

Remember to pair your light, flavorful Shiner beers with healthy recipes to stay on track. Try the easy ginger-citrus marinade below with grilled shrimp, fish, or chicken and wash it down with a perfectly matched Shiner Ruby Redbird.

HEALTHY GINGER-CITRUS MARINADE Ingredients 2 scallions, thinly sliced 1/4 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed 1 small lemon, thinly sliced 2 Tbs. honey 2-inch piece ginger, peeled and minced Grated zest of 1 lime 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1/3 cup grapeseed or other neutral oil Preparation

Whisk together all ingredients in a small bowl. Combine the marinade and protein of your choice in a zip-top bag and refrigerate, turning occasionally. As a general rule, marinate shrimp, scallops, and fish for 30 to 40 minutes and chicken for at least 1 hour and up to 12 hours or overnight.

Cheers to your health!

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

BayouTrends

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We are loving these fun and flirty items from our local boutiques, shops and retailers. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, these hues of pink and red are perfect for your sweetie... or yourself!

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10 11 1. BLUE LI NE BO UTI Q U E 2 . S P A B E L L A 3 . S A D I E C ’ S 4 . T H E P A P E R M A R K E T 5 . DUSTY & CO M PANY 6. HER R I N G S T O N E ’ S 7 . R E V I V A L D E S I G N & C O N S I G N 8 . H E M L IN E 9. M ATERI AL T H I N G S 1 0 . S A D I E C ’ S 1 1 . S L E E P Y H O L L O W

art of a simple

VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY Many of us may not have traditions established for Valentine’s Day. Maybe you’ve called around to find a restaurant that would take reservations on the same day. Or maybe you’ve gifted a card and chocolates in the past. Beyond what you’ve done in the past, this year make Valentine’s Day special – add a personal touch that she’ll always remember.

Styling by Taylor Bennett and Photography by Kelly Moore Clark

These heart-shaped donuts are easy-to-make and the perfect way to start off Valentine’s Day morning.

This recipe is a fun project for the whole family.

HEART-SHAPED DONUTS IN BED Who wouldn’t love these heart-shaped donuts served piping hot while still snuggled under the covers? Perfect for mom, dad and kiddos, these confections are perfection.

1 8-count can refrigerated biscuit dough 2 cups canola oil, for frying * see glaze recipe at end Pour 2 cups of canola oil into a medium sized cast iron skillet and begin heating on medium-low heat. Open the biscuit dough and separate. Use a heart cookie cutter roughly the same size as each biscuit to punch a heart shape from it. Punch additional heart shapes until the remainder of the dough is used.

Check the temperature of the oil using a thermometer– it needs to read 350 degrees F. Increase heat gradually if necessary.

Once oil is ready, drop hearts in. Let cook for about 2 minutes, then turn and cook an additional 2 minutes on the other side.

Donuts should be a nice golden brown.

Let hearts cool completely. Stir each the glaze until smooth, then dip each donut, and immediately turn glaze side up on a cooling rack. Sprinkle with Valentine’s sprinkles. * To make a glaze, heat 1/3 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 tbsp of butter in the microwave for 2 minutes. Add 1/2 cup white chocolate chips and microwave an additional 30 seconds. Whisk until smooth.

Let cool around 5 minutes before glazing donuts.

imagine a relaxing bath of rose petals and citrus with a candle burning and your favorite body scrub ready to go Ready to make her swoon? Take advantage of a Sunday Valentine’s Day and have a bath drawn for her after breakfast. Get Alexa to play smooth jazz while you prepare for her to soak in fresh cut citrus and rose petals. • Extra points if you have a heated towel and a gift certificate to her favorite spa ready when she emerges.

HAND-WRITTEN LOVE LETTER Everyone loves a love letter. A hand-written love note may be one of the most overlooked gifts for Valentine’s Day. While most people flock to the store to buy a card, it takes time to write down your feelings. This Valentine’s Day tell your loved one how you feel – in your own words. It doesn’t have to be on beautiful stationery or sealed with a wax stamp, (but that doesn’t hurt) for it to be meaningful. Write about your past and what you hope for your future, tell your spouse or children what you adore about them, and then seal it with a kiss.

RAINBOW TABLESCAPE Make Valentine’s Day dinner fun with this whimsical tablescape inspired by Abby Gifford. To achieve this look, find some vintage books at a local antique store and paint them in the color story of your choice. Taylor used candy hearts arranged in an ombre pattern to coordinate to the painted books and placemats.

Next, order your favorite meal from a local restaurant and serve with love.

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For the Love of Chocolate B AYOU H E A LT H BY SH A N NON D A H LU M

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ifting chocolate as a symbol of love and affection is nothing new. The Aztecs considered chocolate an aphrodisiac, believing it contained substances that stoked the flames of desire and opened people up to romance. They even used cacao beans as currency and only their cultural elite had the pleasure of drinking this holy beverage.

In ancient Mayan civilization, the cacao bean was revered as a divine delicacy and was thought to be one of the godliest of all foods. The scientific name for the cacao tree, Theobroma Cacao, is a Greek saying that even translates to ‘food for the Gods.’

In 1519, the cacao bean made its way to Spain but it wasn’t until they began sweetening it with cane sugar that it became a fixture in Spanish royal ceremonies. European royalty gave chocolates to their lovers to enhance feelings of love, and chocolate remained a privilege reserved for the wealthy in nearly every country until around 1850, when the monarchy was overtaken. In 1861, the first heart

shaped box of chocolates was produced by Richard Cadbury, and now, more than 36 million heart shaped boxes are sold each year. That’s 58 million pounds of chocolate!

Have you ever popped some form of chocolate into your mouth and felt that wave of calm and satisfaction that seems to instantly soothe the rough edges of a stressful day? Surely, I’m not the only one. Whether you’ve experienced it for yourself or not, there is actually some science to back up the claims of chocolate’s ability to enhance feelings of love and pleasure.

Researchers Richard and Judith Wurtman, of MIT, found that eating sweetened foods, like milk chocolate, elevates serotonin, a neurotrasmitter that promotes feelings of emotional stability, happiness and calm.

Other research has shown that chocolate can also increase levels of endorphins, our own natural opiod. Because of its ability to stimulate pleasure regulating chemicals in the brain, chocolate can be not only a sensual indulgence, but can also become an out of control addiction.

High quality cacao is a health-promoting food.

According to “Genius Foods,” by health and science journalist Max Lugavere, the flavanols present in chocolate have been shown to reverse signs of cognitive aging, improve insulin sensitivity, vascular function and blood flow to the brain, and even increase athletic performance. It’s also among the richest natural food sources of magnesium, a mineral that’s vital for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body.

To reap the benefits that chocolate can provide, quality is key. A lot of the chocolate available on store shelves has been highly processed and loaded with sugar, which degrades the nutrients and transforms it from super food to empty-calorie junk food. When shopping for chocolate, avoid anything that says “processed with alkali”, or “Dutch processed” on the label. This process kills the phytonutrients contained in the raw cacao. When chocolate is labeled “cacao”, that means it’s raw and unprocessed, and these products are your best bet. If it’s spelled “cocoa”, it has been heated during processing, likely killing its health promoting benefits.

It’s also important to choose a product with minimal sugar added. Avoid milk chocolate and white chocolate, which are loaded with sugar and aren’t really any better than most other forms of candy. Look for dark chocolate with a cacao content of 80% or above. Anything lower than that is excessively sweet and is hyper-palatable, which means that it’s unnaturally packed with a flavor that over-stimulates the reward centers in your brain, triggering an insatiable feedback loop that has you constantly going back for more. If you find a rich dark chocolate containing around 85% cacao, you’re more likely to find that consuming one square here and there allows you to enjoy this sensual superfood without triggering an uncontrollable addiction to it.

The sugar content in chocolate isn’t the only thing

that can trigger uncontrollable cravings, though.

Even the highest quality dark chocolate can create an insatiable feedback loop due to its stimulating nature.

Chocolate contains caffeine and at least three other stimulants which, like cocaine, spike dopamine and norepinephrine levels. This triggers a sense of euphoria that can keep you going back for more. If you find yourself craving dark chocolate when you’re low in energy, like during that common mid afternoon slump, or when you’re experiencing a case of the ‘blahs’, it could be the stimulating effect you’re after. This is a common phenomena that can happen when you start your day with coffee and skip breakfast. The caffeine in your coffee is an appetite suppressant, so you may choose not to eat. Later, once that caffeine wears off and you haven’t had nourishing foods to keep your energy system stable, you crash and wind up craving more caffeinated, stimulating foods, like dark chocolate, which provides a temporary pick-meup.

It’s no wonder chocolate is the third most popular gift given on Valentine’s Day (jewelry and flowers take the top two spots).

On a holiday that celebrates love, it seems like a no-brainer to give a treat that quite literally triggers feelings of love and euphoria in your loved ones.

Keep in mind, though, that gifts which temporarily boost feelings of love aren’t meant to be a replacement for giving your own love and receiving it from those around you. When we lack meaningful connection with others, it’s easy to look for things in our external environment that trigger those feelings within us, and food addiction can take over.

Hug more, laugh more, listen more and spend more time with your loved ones, and of course, enjoy the experience of allowing a piece of rich, silky, dark chocolate to melt in your mouth on occasion. Just remember that it’ll never replace your deepest human desire for true love and connection.

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B AYOUKID Z

Share Love, Foster Peace and Spread Kindness Be That Person. Raise That Person article by Cindy G. Foust

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appy February readers in what is considered the month of love and romance. That’s interesting really, because for this writer, I kind of think of every month as the month of love.

Particularly these last several months when I have personally been showered with all the love and all the support a person could dream of or hope to need. Right?

But when we look all around us, like outside our individual bubbles or the insulation we carefully and craftily insulate our families with, and take a glance at the national and even global landscape of things, what we see is a far cry from love. Wait. Is the beginning of this column sounding like a Hallmark movie or can I proceed? Wait. What am I saying? As long as I don’t talk politics, and for 8 years as a feature writer, I never have, I can kind of talk about what I want to and this month, I choose to reinforce what we should all be talking about and that is loving our neighbors as we love ourselves. And more importantly, instilling this sentiment, this attribute in our children. Because here’s the deal readers, and what I wish this country, this community, this social media world many of us have attached ourselves to could find their way back to, is being able to “agree to disagree, but leave your fellow man anyway.”

Anybody feeling me? Anybody else just simply tired of all the arguing and screaming and carrying on (thanks Bitsy) that’s being shouted around the world? It’s true, you can’t disagree or simply have a different opinion from someone else without some visceral reaction from someone who disagrees with you,

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which many times leads to hate filled attacks.

Friends, that isn’t political…it’s personal.

Over the course of the last several months, when it seems like all of our families are being touched by this dreadful, life threatening virus or some other catastrophic happening, I don’t know about you, but my social media pages are full of pleas for prayers for healing,

not hate. Hundreds of responses are usually attached to any post where someone is begging for prayers for restoration and healing. In a few simple words… THIS is life. THIS is what we are called to do, to support our family, our friends, complete strangers, who need our help and our thoughts and prayers. THIS is the time for difficult discussions with our children; for opportunities for our kids to look into the eyes

of humanity with prayers, with thoughtfulness, with love.

You know BayouLife community, when something starts weighing heavy on my heart, it typically makes its way to the pages of this column. And this month, it’s crawling its tired ole’ tail to this month’s Bayou KidZ. I have written for years, in a sporadic kind of way, about these very things… loving our neighbors (even the ones who think differently or have opposing views than we do), showing kindness, setting aside differences and… gasp… even forgiving someone. Last Sunday night I was kind of at the end of my rope with all the turmoil and arguing and conflicts with my social media accounts, so I decided to just divorce myself for a bit and walk out to my patio.

It was the same night the snow had begun to fall, you know, like we were in Aspen or somewhere enchanting, and as I stepped outside, something shifted for me. In fact, it was almost palpable, as I sat down in a patio chair, with a blanket and took in the sights, the sounds, even the smells of this one isolated moment in time. The sights of course, was the way the beautiful snow had begun to accumulate in my backyard. The sounds were children laughing, my precious neighbor’s kids were already out playing in their backyard… innocence… purity.

The smells were from my neighbor’s fireplaces as well as the clean, brisk air from the snow falling. For just a few minutes (as long as I could stand the cold) I just sat there in a far removed place, from all the personal turmoil I had been going through and all the pain and suffering and conflict going

on around me, and watched these beautiful children enjoying the innocence and joy of their childhood. It was, in a word… peaceful.

That’s not a state we recognize these days is it? But boy, did I long to take those peaceful feelings with me and try to figure out a way to keep that 15 minutes of this Norman Rockwell painting as close to me as I could. But it didn’t end there, because the next morning we all woke up to a winter wonderland, right?

As the kids ran out the door to the cool blankets of snow that covered all of our homes, our property, that peaceful dreamy state continued through the day. For one brief moment, we watched our children build snowmen and make ice cream and Coke floats and have snowball fights and sled down the hills. Laughter could be heard down my street from parents and children alike. I have to believe that these same scenes were playing out at many of your homes, as you made hot chocolate or dried gloves for the 10th time.

Suddenly, and magically, all the conflict and the arguing and dissension disappeared from my social media timelines and instead, were replaced with pictures of families, singing, dancing, and playing in the snow. In that moment, we got to see houses covered with snow, trees dripping with icicles or beautifully landscaped yards that looked like a painting.

You know readers, it was almost like some sort of fresh start, some welcome distraction from it all. And it came from a profound, out of nowhere place… but welcome nonetheless.

What struck me as I sat inside and watched my daughter sled down our hill in a Rubbermaid tub, well, sledding might be a stretch… after she was pushed, the tub fell over and she rolled down the hill. But while I sat and watched I got to thinking about the responsibility we have as parents, a responsibility to prepare our kids to face the world and its problems, and boy is it fragmented right now. But why?

I don’t consider myself to be someone who is argumentative or combative, especially to people who are family and friends, and I can’t imagine getting cross with someone just because we don’t share the same political or any platform. Readers, that’s what has made this country great, is the ability and the freedoms we have to disagree.

The courtrooms are full of people who argue different sides but walk out as friends…

I’ve worked for attorneys who have since passed away but were revered, respected by their opponents or adversaries. Where are we?

Why are we so lost? How do we find our way back? I read somewhere recently that “God has trusted us with our journey,” you know the one He has gifted us with called life.

That’s a big thought, a big weight to carry… a trust we can’t take lightly. Take that statement readers, and use it in your homes with your children; share it with friends and co-workers; make a notecard and put it on your vanity mirror, and use your journey to share love, to foster peace and to spread kindness.

This world is full of ugly rhetoric and vile actions of people who are lost, but it’s also full of wonderful caring neighbors, family and friends, who will love you back to good health; who will pray for your restoration, no matter what is ailing you; and who will encourage peace.

Be that person; raise your children to be that person; and surround yourself with that person (or people). If I sound like I should be standing in the pulpit this month, I apologize. But not really because anyone can use their platforms to spur change. We need change, sooner than later, and I personally believe it’s possible if people can simply allow their differences to spark conversation or discussion rather than hate and anger, change has no choice bu to come.

Cindy G. Foust is a wife, mom, author and blogger.

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

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Jesus the Good Shepherd School Thank You for Your Support

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GS SCHOOL IS BLESSED WITH dedicated families, friends and community who recognize the unique benefit of a Catholic education and Christ-centered environment. Thank you to the following generous supporters of the 2020 JGS Annual Fund Campaign.

FR. MOORE SOCIETY Caroline & Alan Brockman, Tommy & Meredith Hayes, Kelly & Stevie Hill/Skent N Dent, Larry & Pam Pickett, George B. Dean, Jr.

JGS SOCIETY Gina & Brent Creel, Harry McKenzie Family, Jennifer & William Sparks, Jott & Michael Ann Delcambre, Michael & Christie Echols, Andree & Lane Eddleman, Lise & Jean Poirrier, Dr. & Mrs. Jason McCourt, Amy & Michael Sawyer, Justin & Dana Tarver, Felicia & Mead Hardwick, Cindy & Steve Gray, Dr. Carson & Kelly Rutz/Monroe Endodontics, Jeff Leaumont State Farm, Renee K. Schneider Insurance Agency, Lauren & Heath Davis, Art & Sadye Richert, Emily & Trent Nunnelee, Will & Danielle Patrick, Arie & Kelly Spitzfaden, Rick & Lisa Herlevic, Marshall & Julie Cain, Paul

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Michael & Laura Petty, Micah & Haley Pulliam, Bradley & Jaclyn Hall, Susan & Kevin Hopper, The Beasinger Family

GOOD SHEPHERD LANE CLUB Patricia Blanchard, Christine & Jay Gillikin, Linda & Joe Holyfield, Cliff & Joan Carr, Mike & Tammie Benoit, Jane Luffey, J. Michael Inzina, Mary & Jay Hardwick, Amy & Jim Norris, Justin & Sarah Bishop-Bing Bishop Construction, Inc., Mr. & Mrs. Hugh G. McDonald, Philip Dale Soignier, CPA, Joe & Allene Worley, Freddy & Melanie Kalil, Terri Arthur & Cynthia Nyquist, Milton & Janet Moore, Gerald & Ashley Tonore/Merrill Lynch, Miletello Landscape Management LLC, Jimmy & Judy Edwards, Aimee & David Anthony, Tyler & Brooks Williams, Michael & Annie Ajlani, Dr. & Mrs. Randy Taylor, Sandra Patin, Dr. Harry & Mrs. Cherie Donias, David & Brenda Donald THE EMERSON CLUB Sal & Karen Giannobile, John G. Semmes, Robert & Monica Jones, Randal & Lisa Ingram, Sandra Savage, Mercer & Helen King, Scott & Marlo Shepard, Jack & Debbie Gazzo, Drs. Nicholas & Sarah

Gregory, Sean & Tara Hammons, Nerissa & John Bryant, Scott & Cindy McCormick, Misty McMullen, Jim & Pam Booth, Valerie & Will Daniel, Buff Harvey, Will & Ashton Mintz, Blair & Megan Parker, Nathan & Melissa Ducote, Brenda & Charles Taylor Jr., Jennifer & Peter Guerriero, Jim & Alison Sanford, Susie & Richard Lefebvre/Sit Stay & Play, Jonathan & Katherine Howard, Emily & Mac Casteel, Mickey & Wendy Wilkinson, Mr. & Mrs. Gerald M. Tonore, Brett & Perry Estis, Hope Myers, David & Libby Chop THE MARQUETTE CLUB Joy Loomis, Mallory Benedetto, Bo & Billye Shaw, Mr. Bobby Parker, JoAnn Crone, Rodriguez Family, Saundra & Clint Shepard, Mark & Rosie Nix, Ed & Debra McGee, Ann LeDoux, Frederic & Martha Amman, Kyle & Erica Miller, Lynn Barr, Kathi Savage, Georgie Porter, Phil & Dalton Thomas, Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Winn, Joseph & Susan Wheeler, Debbie & David Smith, Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Coon, Deborah Tropea Mahan, Marcia Southwell, Terry & Sandra Rocconi, William H. Barkley, CPA, Alan Barth, Kelly Brown, Kristin & Bobby Nola, William A. Kelley & Anne Smith, Robert & Amanda Bonney, Michael & Christy Whaley, Morgan Boyd, Amanda Wimberly

Families interested in finding out more about Jesus the Good Shepherd School are encouraged to schedule a school tour. School tours are by appointment only due to Covid restrictions. Call the school office at 318-325-8569 to book your tour today.

No More Pain

Janet Finds Relief for Vein Disease

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VERY DAY FOR MORE THAN A YEAR, Janet Hendrix lived with an aching leg and a swollen ankle. She tried different shoes to alleviate the pain, but nothing helped. Each afternoon after work, she quickly moved to the couch to elevate her right leg and take Ibuprofen.

Janet, an ophthalmic technician for over 40 years, spent a lot of time on her feet, which exacerbated the problem. “I asked friends and family to look at the back of my leg because I couldn’t see it well. When people looked at my leg, they became very concerned,” she said. “Their reaction, combined with the pain and swelling, made me realize I needed to do something.”

She decided her quality of life needed to improve, so in October of 2019, Dr. Bart Liles performed a minimally-invasive procedure at the Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana.

While Janet planned to recover the day after her appointment, she soon realized it wasn’t necessary. She was left with a bruise, and most notably: no pain.

JANET

Today, Janet is active and grateful for her life, which she said has improved tremendously.

She wants others who suffer from vein disease to understand how simple the procedure is and the profound impact it can have. Janet, of West Monroe, also wants them to find comfort in the expertise of Dr. Liles. Before her vein treatment, many people told Janet great things about Dr. Liles, and now she understands why.

“I can’t say enough good things about this procedure and Dr. Liles. I recommend him to everyone I see. He’s very capable, and he knows the very best treatment for the patient.

He’s kind. He made me feel very comfortable and explained to me exactly how the procedure would work,” she said. “Before the procedure, my biggest concern was downtime, and I really didn’t have any downtime. I remember thinking, ‘There’s no way it can work like this, but it did.’”

Janet suffered from saphenous vein reflux, a condition that leads to varicose veins, which resemble raised, enlarged vein branches.

Vein reflux occurs when valves don’t function properly, leading to a reversal of blood flow through the valves while a person is standing or sitting. When the valves do not channel blood flow back to the heart because of blockage, blood flow decreases, pressure increases, and the person experiences swelling in the legs and feet.

Janet underwent a combination of three procedures:

• Phlebectomy in which the varicose veins were removed through small incisions.

• Sclerotherapy in which a chemical solution was injected directly into the varicose vein.

• Radiofrequency ablation, which eliminated the varicose veins through radiofrequency energy.

When vein reflux is diagnosed at an early stage with a simple ultrasound, our surgeons can prevent other veins from becoming problematic.

Untreated vein disease can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and even deep vein thrombosis, which can be life-threatening.

In addition to Dr. Liles, the Surgery Clinic of Northeast Louisiana is home to surgeons Dr. Walter Sartor and Dr. Patrick Smith. Contact the clinic today with your questions about minimally invasive surgery or other medical needs, such as weight loss surgery.

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

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PRING IS JUST AROUND THE corner and with that comes a sense of rebirth and renewal. This is the perfect time to add much needed new life into your home, especially after this past year of being in our homes more than ever! During the month of February, we are excited to offer 25% off all special order items including the following categories: FABRIC, TRIM AND WALLPAPER: From Scalamandre to Fabricut and everything in between, I have access to anything you need for all of your home décor projects. In my work space/design area of the shop, I have numerous books and fabric swatches to fulfill all tastes and styles. I offer modern, as well as the tried and true traditional in wallpaper, fabric swatches and books.

DRAPERY HARDWARE: Drapery hardware company selections include Antique Drapery Hardware, Kravet, Kasmir, RM Coco, Graber and more. All of these companies offer an endless array of styles, finishes, sizes and

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options that will compliment anyone’s personal décor.

UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE: The MT Company is my number one company that I order from for upholstered furniture. They are made in High Point, NC and offer a full line up of options and standards that you expect from American made furniture. The newest thing from The MT Company that they will be offering this spring are fully upholstered or slipcovered chairs, ottomans and sofas for the outdoors. Gabby is another upholstered line that I frequently use and they also have the same wonderful US standards.

DRAPERY: Not everyone can use the standard length ready-made drapery panels available online or off the shelf. This is where Material Things comes in and can measure your space, help pick your fabric and fabricate them from any of the four workrooms that I use. I also offer installation on any product that my workrooms produce.

BEDDING: I offer Lili Alessandra, Traditions Linens and Libeco Home as my options for ready-made bedding. These three lines are different in style but, the same in practicality. From the glamour of Lili Alessandra to the traditional of Traditions Linens and the Belgium made beauty of Libeco Home, I think there are plenty of options to choose from. All of my companies are washer and dryer safe.

SHADES: Graber offers a shade line, Tradewinds Natural, and they are phenomenal.

I have these in my home and love them. They can be unlined, privacy lined or blackout lined as well as have cord or cordless. We also offer installation on these.

Not only does Material Things offer many options when it comes to custom drapes, furniture, linens and more, I also recently returned from market and will have many new product lines coming in for you to see in person.

- Joyce

Love Your Bladder Again

Robert D. Marx, M.D., Your Hometown Urologist

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ENS OF MILLIONS OF PEOPLE ARE living with overactive bladder (OAB) and chronic fecal incontinence (FI). These conditions not only disrupt everyday life, but they are embarrassing to talk about. So people tend to keep them hidden. Robert D. Marx, M.D. and his staff are here to help our community members suffering from these conditions find relief.

OAB and FI are more prevalent than many other common conditions. When people with OAB and FI finally seek treatment, they are often unhappy with the results. Here’s why: dietary changes and physical therapy can be ineffective, medications often cause unpleasant side effects or patients don’t realize other options are available.

Medtronic therapies can help people with bladder and bowel control issues get their lives back. They are potentially life-changing options for any patient with OAB or FI who isn’t responding well to first- and second-line treatments. More than 70% of patients with OAB

discontinued medications within 6 months and many people with bladder and bowel control issues do not seek treatment.

Medtronic offers a proven therapy for treating OAB and chronic FI. Medtronic Bladder or Bowel Control Therapy delivered by the InterStimTM system, also called sacral neuromodulation (SNM), is clinically proven to relieve the symptoms of both OAB and chronic FI. Unlike conventional treatments, SNM works by gently stimulating the nerves that control the pelvic floor muscles, lower urinary tract, anal sphincter, and bowel. This is thought to restore the bladder-brain and bowelbrain communication pathway, resulting in significant improvements in quality of life.

Unlike other treatments, SNM allows patients to experience the therapy during a short evaluation before committing to it. It is a minimally invasive procedure, 3 to 7 day assessment and helps determine likely longterm efficacy.

Complications can occur with the

evaluation. Patients should be instructed on operating the test device and given other precautions related to the evaluation as well as activity restrictions. 84% of OAB patients are satisfied with SNM therapy.

If you’ve been waiting to correct your incontinence issues, don’t hold off any longer.

Whatever level of severity your problem is, Robert D. Marx, M.D. and his dedicated staff are ready to assist you. If you are suffering from OAB or FI please call their office for an appointment today.

Robert D. Marx, M.D. is this community’s hometown urologist. He was born and raised in Monroe, LA. He graduated from NLU, now ULM, and graduated from medical school and completed his residency at LSU Shreveport.

Dr. Marx has traveled extensively working with the leaders of the field in order to keep up with the latest and most successful techniques in incontinence. He has been in practice for over thirty years and conveniently operates at Glenwood, Monroe Surgical and P&S.

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mARTi Gras

“Un-canceling” Mardi Gras 2021

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HE ARTS COUNCIL OF NORTHEAST LOUISIANA IS excited to present mARTI Gras, a virtual online art show and auction, commemorating and “un-canceling” Mardi Gras 2021 in Cultural Region 8.

“Mardi Gras is part of our culture in Louisiana. It is part of who we are,” said Arts Council President Barry Stevens. “COVID-19 has created challenges for everyone including the ability to celebrate Mardi Gras and experience art.” “To help maintain the fun of Mardi Gras and to help artists continue working, the Arts Council created mARTi Gras.”

Artists will submit up to 5 pieces of Mardi Gras inspired or influenced art. These pieces will be displayed via our online platforms for pre-event artist and work spotlights and then will be sold via virtual silent auction during the weekend of February 12th-14th, prior to the observance of Mardi Gras on February 16th.

For the kids mARTi Gras will include a region-wide coloring contest for Region 8, grades preK-8th. Different grade level coloring sheets are available via the Arts Council’s Facebook page and at select community locations in all 11 parishes. Deadline for submission of coloring sheets is Tuesday, February 2nd.

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50% of the auction proceeds will go the artist, and 50% will be retained by the Arts Council benefiting the programs and services of the Arts Council in Region 8.

For more information about mARTi Gras, contact Abigail Handy in the Arts Council office at 318.397.6717 or email abigail@nelaarts. org.

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

ABOUT THE ARTS COUNCIL OF NORTHEAST LOUISIANA The Arts Council of Northeast Louisiana seeks to nurture a vibrant regional arts culture through support, promotion, and education. The Arts Council of Northeast Louisiana strives to be a transformative force for the community by encouraging a passion for the arts, promoting partnerships and collaboration, and ensuring access to the arts for all. Activities of the Arts Council are supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council. Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, Art Works.

New Year, New You, NuEra Tight!

The Medical Spa by St. Francis Medical Group is Now Open

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HE MEDICAL SPA BY ST. FRANCIS Medical Group is now open and scheduling appointments. We are excited to introduce the NuEra Tight technology to the Monroe area! NuEra Tight is a versatile, temperature-controlled radiofrequency (RF) skin laxity treatment which can smooth, lift and refine skin all over the body.

By delivering controlled RF heat to the skin, NuEra Tight stimulates the body’s healing process and subsequently the production of new collagen. The growth of new collagen results in a tightening of the tissues, which leaves the body and skin looking smoother and more lifted. It’s a fantastic cellulite treatment, but the versatile, targeted approach that NuEra Tight offers makes it a fantastic solution for a range of loose skin issues.

NuEra Tight uses next-generation

temperature control, which allows it to maintain the most precise temperatures necessary to achieve the best results. Temperature affects how deeply and powerfully the RF energy penetrates the tissue and therefore the type of skin laxity issues being treated.

The system’s clever temperature controls make it possible to treat a wide range of problems. Plus, it ensures highly consistent and predictable results, no matter which areas of the body are being treated. NuEra can tighten both superficial tissues close to the skin’s surface, as well as much deeper levels of tissue. This makes it possible to treat a huge variety of problem areas, from the delicate tissue around the eyes, cheeks, mouth and neck, to thicker areas of tissue on the upper arms, back, abdomen, flanks, thighs and buttocks.

Some of the most common problems that NuEra can tackle are:

– Cellulite

– Sagging skin on the thighs and buttocks

– Loose skin on the abdomen

– Double chin

– Skin laxity on jawline NuEra Tight is a non-surgical skin rejuvenation procedure, which means there’s no downtime and no lengthy recovery period.

The procedure itself is completely comfortable, and each treatment session takes as little as 10 minutes when treating facial areas and 20 minutes when tackling loose skin on the body.

The results that NuEra Tight delivers are gradual, and patients require several treatments to achieve desired results, with skin looking smoother and more lifted after every session.

Once we achieve the rejuvenation you’ve been looking for, you’ll be able to maintain results with occasional touch-up sessions.

Every NuEra Tight patient is different.

You can expect your cellulite treatment to vary depending on the issues you want to tackle.

To learn more about the procedure and to see what your skin laxity treatment will look like, give us a call at (318) 966-3772 to arrange a consultation.

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14 DAYS OF LOVE Starting February 1st until Valentine’s Day, leave your little ones love notes on their doors. All you need is a little washi tape and foam hearts. Each day write your kid(s) a note and stick it on their door before they wake. This project is guaranteed to put a smile on their faces.

MARDI GRAS MAMBO Get festive at home this Mardi Gras season with some of our favorite Louisiana treats. From mouth-watering kingcake to old-fashioned Moon Pies, Zapp’s potato chips to Abita beer, this spread screams “laissez les bons temps rouler.” Bonus points if you have a living room parade with throws! Thanks to Choice Brands for Abita beer.

Image by Kelly Moore Clark and Styling by Taylor Bennett

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Sandy and the Snowmen Local Resident Shines A Light on a Cloudy Day

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n Monday, January 11th, Northeast Louisiana got to experience a rare occasion - a snow day! Everyone threw on their coats, found some mittens, grabbed makeshift sleds and played in the winter wonderland. Soon Facebook and Instagram were filled with pictures of smiling faces and the beautiful landscapes across Northeast Louisiana.

But there was one picture that stood out.

Monroe resident Rachel Huber

posted a picture of little snowmen atop each post on the Louisville Bridge that connects Monroe and West Monroe. She said that she didn’t know who did it but she thought they were cute. And just like social media tends to do, word spread. But this time, in a good way.

When all was said and done, the picture had been shared 719 times.

Everyone loved the sentiment, but it really stood out to one particular person. “I found myself going back to Rachel’s post

at least five times just to look at it,” said Lindsey Braddock, another Monroe resident. “It just brought a smile to my face!” And Lindsey wanted to thank the person that did it.

The story appeared on the local news and people started commenting that they recognized the mystery snowman builder. “I had many people texting and commenting saying that it was Sandy, a local resident that a lot of people recognized from working in local restaurants.”

Lindsey shared that she wanted to do something to put a smile on his face like he had done for so many others. Donations started pouring into her Venmo account. Lindsey connected with Sandy when a friend of her’s shared that he did odd jobs for their dad and passed along his phone number. She called him to meet up and to give him what they

had collected - over $2,300! “I don’t think he knew that all these people were so appreciative of this small act of kindness but he was so grateful!” said Lindsey. “He was truly overcome with emotion.”

A teacher at Sallie Humble, Lindsey said she has seen the effects that the last year has had on her students and everyone in general.

“It has been a hard year and there is so much negativity on the news and on social media so I was so happy to see something that brought so much joy,” she said. In addition to the monetary gift, Lindsey gave Sandy a poster that simply said - “You were the sunshine when skies were gray!”

And that is simply what Sandy provided.

BY: ASHLEY HUBENTHAL

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The White’s Light

REV. MAURICE WHITE AND HIS WIFE, TIFFANY, HAVE WORKED TIRELESSLY TO ESTABLISH THE ZION TRAVELER COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION AND THE HOPE CENTER FOR AUTISM IN RUSTON.

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very February marks the celebration of love, specifically on the 14th. It is entirely fitting then that our February Bayou Icons are a loving couple whose lives have been marked not only by their love for each other, and their love for their families, but also by love for their God and their fellow man.

Rev. Maurice White is widely-respected in Louisiana for his work as pastor for the Zion Traveler Baptist Church in Ruston. With other like-minded leaders, he has worked to establish the Zion Traveler Community Development Corporation, a non-profit created to combat poverty in his community by paving the way for people to become homeowners and entrepreneurs. By his side every step of the way has been his wife of 16 years, Tiffany Owens White. The two have worked tirelessly on a number of projects, but perhaps none more important to them personally than the establishment of the Hope Center for Autism in Ruston. Life has not always been easy for them, but they have persevered. As Rev. White puts it, “We learned that pain can become purpose, obstacles can become opportunity, and sorrow can be transformed into strength.”

ar ticle by GEORGIANN POT TS photography by K ELLY MOORE CL ARK

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aurice White grew up in the Greenbrook subdivision in South Shreveport in a neighborhood called Cedar Grove. His parents, Charlie White and the late Loraine White, provided him with a nurturing homelife that emphasized love not only within the immediate family, but also within the extended family in Shreveport and Grand Cane. Both parents were reared in Desoto Parish, and both worked for the Caddo Parish School Board until their retirement. Maurice remembers family gatherings with joy, saying that there was always lots of laughter, storytelling, and food. One thing that he misses during the COVID-19 pandemic are the large family reunions where everyone could catch up on news and renew their family bonds.

Christianity was central to Maurice’s life from an early age. When he was 8, he became a member of the Shady Grove Baptist Church in Shreveport. Just 2 years later, he “. . . answered the call that God placed upon my life to preach the gospel to a lost and dying world.” He loved singing in the choir, preaching at youth revivals, and traveling to the National Baptist Convention where he met many others of his faith from all over the United States.

Tiffany Owens White grew up in a similarly close family. She was born and reared in Terry, Mississippi, a small town she describes as having “. . . one red light and a population of about 1,200.” Her parents, the late S. Levon Owens and wife, Pearlie B. Owens, were active in their community. Tiffany’s grandmother, aunts, uncles, and cousins were neighbors so holidays and summertime were always happy times with lots of family involved. Tiffany’s father took over his family’s cattle business when he was 16 years old. Her mother handled the accounting. Among Tiffany’s fondest childhood memories was attending cattle auctions and spending time in the pastures on her family’s ranch.

Like Maurice, Tiffany also became a Christian early in life and loved attending her small family church, Little Bethel CME. The church only held services on the first and third Sundays of each month, so she would often visit other churches on the other Sundays. “Oftentimes I would go alone, and always to Baptist churches,” she remembers.

“Jesus knew I’d be marrying a Baptist preacher, so I guess He was preparing me!”

From her entrepreneurial parents and their work in real estate and the cattle industry, Tiffany learned to understand how business works – invaluable lessons that she would use later in life. She watched them as they developed 15 beautiful subdivisions “. . . so that families who wanted to leave the inner city would have a place to safely rear their families.”

She also learned from both parents to be active and concerned about politics. “My father was passionate about politics and committed his time, knowledge, and resources to candidates, campaigns, and causes aimed at improving the community he loved,” Tiffany explains. “This also led to my mother running for and being elected as a Hinds County Justice Court Judge – she’s now in her third term.”

Education in the Classroom and Out

Maurice attended Southern Hills Elementary, Caddo Middle Magnet, and C.E. Byrd High and enjoyed his school years in Shreveport. In middle school and high 74 FEBRUARY 2021 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Both Maurice and Tiffany look to their son, Reece, as their inspiration for working in the world of nonprofits. At an early age, their son was diagnosed with autism. They are thankful for both of their children, and delight in them every day.

school, he played sports (a continuing passion of his, though now more as a fan). Although he participated in several sports, football was his favorite. It was his history teacher and basketball coach, Mr. Billy Wayne, who became an important mentor for Maurice as he was growing up. “Mr. Wayne taught me never to settle for good when you can be great,” Maurice remembers.

“He also helped me to nurture my love for history and language.”

Other mentors during these formative years were his father and his pastor (and cousin) Rev. A.G. Sudds.

From his father, Maurice learned invaluable lessons – that if you worked hard, you could achieve anything in life, and that a good name is better than money. His father set the example of how to love and care for one’s family. Rev. Sudds was key to Maurice’s early Christian development by protecting the young evangelist from harm’s way. “Pastor Sudds watched over me as I lived the life of a boy preacher,” Maurice says. “He protected me from the wolves that are often in sheep’s clothing, and he taught me everything I know about preaching.”

Maurice was a strong math student and was in the gifted and talented math and science programs in middle school and high school. Two of his brothers were in the United States military, and Maurice set as his goal attending the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, and becoming an officer in the United States Marine Corp. That dream ended, however, when a football injury his senior year in high school changed his education path.

Tiffany attended elementary and junior high in the Hinds Country School System, but a summer camp experience changed her education trajectory. She attended summer camp at the Piney Woods Country

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“I believe the biggest challenge for ministers today is getting through this pandemic and continuing to chip away at the wall of racism in our country that continues to divide us,” Maurice says. “It is hard to help one another and have fellowship if we don’t truly love our neighbors as we love ourselves.”

Life School, a historically African-American boarding school. It was unlike any school she had ever experienced, and she was eager to transfer there. Since her mother worked at the school, Tiffany was able to transfer and commute each day for class. She was there for grades 10 through 12, and graduated class valedictorian. “That experience allowed me to learn about, and with, students who lived all over the United States and some who were from many African countries,” she remembers.

Just like her future husband, math was her favorite subject.

However, early on she set her goal to become an attorney. Both parents encouraged her, pointing out that it was always a challenge to win an argument with her. Her uncle, Bob Owens, set up special summer jobs in his law firm for Tiffany and several others to let them learn how law practices work. Although Tiffany appreciated that opportunity, that was not the plan God had for her.

University Years

Instead of the Naval Academy, Maurice earned his university education at Dillard University in New Orleans. There he graduated with a degree in English in 2002. Although he had excellent skills in math and science, his love of the language and awareness of the power of it proved even greater. While at Dillard, a chance meeting on the Avenue of the Oaks during the first two weeks of their freshman year brought Tiffany into his life. Although they were only good friends for the first three years, that friendship would to grow into something more when they were older.

Maurice remembers David Page and Patrick Jefferson as defining role models during his Dillard years. Both were administrators, and both became fraternity brothers through Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated. Maurice credits Mr. Page for “. . . helping me to navigate life as a college student and representing to me what I wanted to be as a man when college was over.” Mr. Jefferson (currently serving as a Louisiana State Representative) was an important guide in helping Maurice to “. . . grow as a person, mentally and spiritually.”

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Bagging and stacking groceries for Brookshire’s was Maurice’s first job during high school. It was that experience that he says made him begin to value and appreciate that hard work is necessary to earn a living. While in college, he wrote and worked for the National Baptist Convention of America Publishing Board. Following graduation, Maurice entered the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and earned a Masters of Divinity graduate degree. While there, Maurice says that Dr. Gerald Stevens at New Orleans Baptist was a true inspiration. “He inspired me to be a serious student of the Word of God by engulfing myself in the study of the Greek language,” Maurice recalls.

Tiffany enrolled at Dillard as a Business Management major. In her study there, her favorite course was “Organizational Behavior.” In that class she and others explored the corporate culture that is defined as “the way we do business around here.” Today she says knowledge has guided her each time she has begun a new job, or entered a new business or place of worship. “I immediately start to ponder – ‘How do they treat people here? What values do they hold? What’s important to them?’ and then I make my decisions and act accordingly,” Tiffany says.

When she was a junior at Dillard, Tiffany applied for scholarships and internships through the United Negro College Fund. She was accepted into two programs, both in Chicago. One was with the William Wrigley Company and the other was with Bank One Corporation (now JP Morgan Chase). “At the time, all I knew about Wrigley was chewing gum, so I chose Bank One!” she recalls with a laugh.

“This included a scholarship and 10-week internship that allowed me to work on special projects in the Compliance Department with the guidance of senior executives who serves as mentors. At the time, I really enjoyed the fastpaced life of corporate America.” After she graduated, Tiffany was offered a position at the Bank One headquarters in Chicago. Because of her love for Maurice, she took a similar job with Bank One in New Orleans instead. Not long after, she enrolled in the University of New Orleans and began work on her MBA.

Maurice served on two church staffs while he was attending seminary. At the New Hope Baptist Church in New Orleans, Maurice was special assistant to the pastor.

There he came under the influence of the late Pastor John Raphael, an important figure in his spiritual life. “Under the mentoring of Pastor Raphael, I developed my passion for ministry,” Maurice says. “Witnessing and soul winning on the streets of New Orleans where murders were occurring almost on a daily basis is something I will never forget.”

It was Pastor Raphael who married Maurice and Tiffany in her hometown of Terry, Mississippi, in 2004. “It was love at first sight for me,” Maurice says, “but it took me a few years to convince Tiffany that I was the one.” Maurice laughingly remembers how shocked Tiffany’s family was at their wedding reception. “They were surprised to see a preacher have such great dance moves,” he says. “We danced all night long!”

Katrina Forces a Move and Presents Opportunities

In 2006 their first child, Reece, was born. Tiffany was 2 months pregnant with him when the Whites moved to Shreveport where Maurice served on the staff at Galilee

Baptist Church. The late Dr. E. Edward Jones was Maurice’s pastor and mentor and helped Maurice to develop a love and passion for helping people through non-profits. “The short time I spent on Dr. Jones’ staff taught me so much about following in the footsteps of Jesus and helping the least of these,” says Maurice.

When Reece was 6 months old, the Whites moved to Ruston when Maurice became pastor at Zion Traveler Baptist Church there. Shortly after, their second child, daughter Mariah, was born. Maurice says that serving as pastor for Zion Traveler has been his most rewarding experience, personally and professionally. Tiffany joined Maurice in founding the Hope Center of Autism in 2011. They saw a need in the Ruston area to help children with autism like their son, Reece. Tiffany served as director for the AfterSchool SNACK (Special Needs Activity Center for Kids) and summer programs for 7 years.

Volunteerism in their community is important to both, as this is a way to learn more about their region, community, and neighbors. It also serves as an important outreach for their church work. Both Maurice and Tiffany became volunteer readers for the Read.Learn.Succeed program, a United Way of NELA initiative. They both loved reading to the second graders at Lincoln Prep, and later Tiffany accepted a position with United Way in their Ruston office.

Maurice serves on the board of the Boys and Girls Club of North Central Louisiana as well as The Community Foundation-Lincoln Parish Fund. They support the Red Cross, DART, the Methodist Children’s Home, the Lincoln Parish Drug Court, and the United Way of Northeast Louisiana. Maurice is the director for the Young Pastor’s Division of the Louisiana Missionary Baptist State Convention and President of the Interdenominational Alliance of Ministers of Ruston & Vicinity.

Working Toward Real Change

Among many activities that they have been involved with, perhaps none is more important than the development of the Zion Traveler Community Development Corporation.

This non-profit was created by the Zion Traveler church.

The group is currently partnering with the City of Ruston, Origin Bank, and Grambling State University in an effort called “Real Change in Ruston.” This spring, groundbreaking is scheduled to take place for 20 new homes on the old fair grounds in Ruston. As in everything, the Whites are partners together in this effort as well. Tiffany will serve as a facilitator for the faith and finance classes that will help position class participants to become first time homeowners.

Both Maurice and Tiffany look to their son, Reece, as their inspiration for working in the world of non-profits.

At an early age, their son was diagnosed with autism. They are thankful for both of their children, and delight in them every day. Tiffany describes them as “. . . both kind, funny, and both love the Lord. I like to think that they are made up of the best parts of both of us.” Maurice agrees, and adds that Reece, though non-verbal, still expresses his love for God and his family daily. Of Mariah, Maurice says that she is very smart and athletic, and is “. . . special because of the love and support that she gives to her best friend, her older brother Reece.”

The Pandemic and the Future

COVID-19 has challenged the Whites, just as it has everyone. They miss the fellowship that has had to be diminished as the pandemic rages. Maurice says, “I miss the hugs and the handshakes. I miss the choir singing. I miss the people of God coming together in great numbers to worship our God in spirit and in truth.”

Both recognize that technology has been a blessing because it has allowed the church to remain central to the congregants’ lives through virtual delivery of the message. This has allowed the congregation and the larger community to remain “connected.” “I believe the biggest challenge for ministers today is getting through this pandemic and continuing to chip away at the wall of racism in our country that continues to divide us,” Maurice says. “It is hard to help one another and have fellowship if we don’t truly love our neighbors as we love ourselves.”

When times are better, they hope to travel again to their very favorite place, Destin, Florida. It was here that they honeymooned, and here that they have returned to for years to celebrate special family occasions or “just because.”

Tiffany, however, would also like to visit Hilton Head Beach Island in South Carolina. It is on her travel “bucket list” because Maurice went there as a child and often talks about how much he loved it there. She would like to share that with him.

No matter what the future holds, the White family will face it together with faith and the special strength that comes from that faith. Their willingness to partner in all facets of their life together has meant that every organization, business, non-profit, or religious group they have affiliated with has truly received the blessing of the old adage, “Two for the price of one.” The citizens of north Louisiana are blessed to have them in their midst.

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Introducing Dr. Zachary Willis

Newest Surgeon to be Added to DermaMediQ

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ERMAMEDIQ IS VERY EXCITED TO INTRODUCE the newest member of our team, Dr. Zachary Willis!

Dr.Willis is a Board-Certified general surgeon and one of the leading experts in liposuction and skin tightening. We are thrilled that he will be performing minimally invasive BodyTite and FaceTite procedures right here at DermMediQ in Monroe.

Dr. Willis is originally from Iowa and completed his undergraduate degree in kinesiology/pre-medicine at Iowa State University. He then attended medical school in Kirksville, Missouri, and went on to complete his residency in general surgery in St. Louis, Missouri. After residency he has spent one year in a full body cosmetic surgery fellowship performing breast augmentations, abdominoplasties, liposuction, face lifts and many other procedures. When he is not here in Monroe, he travels the country training other physicians the art of liposuction and other minimally invasive techniques. He is passionate about what he does, and his results are unmatched.

Of all the procedures that Dr. Willis performs, his very favorite is combing liposuction with skin tightening (BodyTite and FaceTite). These procedures are considered minimally invasive as they can be performed through very small incisions.

The procedures can be safely performed awake, under local anesthesia. The device works by heating up both the skin and the underlying fat layer. The physician selects the exact temperatures to cause fat destruction and skin tightening without burning the skin. The fat that is destroyed is then suctioned out with liposuction. Liposuction alone is used to remove unwanted fat, but by itself, it can actually create loose skin. This is where BodyTite and FaceTite come in. These procedures combined with liposuction work to both decrease the amount of fat and tighten the skin.

If you are wondering if you are a good candidate for these procedures here is a message from Dr.Willis: “The right patient would include someone who has areas of excess fat and/or loose skin that bothers them. As with any elective procedure, candidates should be otherwise healthy, with a BMI (body mass index) of 35 or less, and no major medical problems.�

Common areas that are treated with this device include: face, abdomen, flanks, back, inner and outer thighs, arms and chest.

If you are interested in becoming a more confident, better you, schedule an appointment today and see if this minimally invasive procedure is right for you.

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

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PA NOUVELLE HAS BEEN ONE OF THE LEADING SPAS here in northeast Louisiana for 10 years! Partners Mary Beth Dickerson, Ana Lopez Hale, Drew Farr and Wendy Newsom all have a passion for health and beauty. With an attentive approach to relaxation and skincare health, it’s no surprise that the staff of Spa Nouvelle has won top prizes in the BayouLife BayouBuzz Awards since it’s inception. Ward off the stress of your crazy life with one of the many spa services offered at Spa Nouvelle: body treatments, massages, facials, waxing, microdermabrasion, dermaplanning, H2O/Oxygen treatment, airbrush tanning, chemical peels, lash and brow tinting, SkinCeuticals products, DoTerra and essential oils and diffusers. Looking for the perfect gift for any occasion? Spa Nouvelle offers gift certificates to use with any of their services.

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

Have your spa experience tailored to your specific needs. Lockers, luxurious bathrobes, towels, showers, and sandals are provided for your use during your day. Three and a half hours of uninterrupted relaxation is designed to help you escape from stress. The experience includes a light lunch, spa day customized luxury massage, and spa day red carpet treatment facial that includes product consultation. Spa Nouvelle will also host a spa party. Whether it’s a day of pampering with your bridesmaids, a mom’s day out, or a staff retreat, they can accommodate the whole gang or just a few special ladies… or men.

From beginning to end, the dedicated spa team at Spa Nouvelle will ensure that your visit enhances your well-being. If you’re needing a gift and not sure what to get them, online gift certificates are available at www.spanouvelle.com.

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

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

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LA Eye & Laser Center State-of-the-Art Eye Care in Monroe

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T LOUISIANA EYE & LASER CENTER, OUR MAIN goal is for our patients to receive state-of-the-art eye care in a warm and caring environment. We specialize in the diagnoses and treatment of eye diseases and various eye surgeries including advanced laser-assisted cataract removal with premium lens implants, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) and much more. We offer an array of other services to assist our patients with almost any eye problem they may be experiencing. In addition to performing comprehensive diagnostic testing and specialized surgical procedures in our pristine Eye Care Center, we provide routine eye exams, contact lens fittings and aesthetics. Our doctors serve a ten-parish area with 14 office locations around the state so a Louisiana Eye & Laser location is always around the corner. We provide quality eye care for the entire family and are proud to have been helping patients around the area for nearly four decades. In our Monroe office we have four doctors that treat our patients A.J. BARBIERO, O.D. Dr. A. J. Barbiero, a native of Salt Lake City, Utah, and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science, magna cum laude, from the University of Utah and his Doctor of Optometry from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee, summa cum laude. Newlywed and newly relocated to Louisiana, Dr. Barbiero provides routine and medical eye examinations, including fittings for contact lenses and glasses, and has special interests in specialty contact lenses as well as the treatment and management of ocular disease.

PATRICK R. REDMOND, MD A Louisiana native, who graduated with honors, summa cum laude, from Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas followed by receiving his medical degree from LSU School of Medicine in Shreveport. He completed his Ophthalmology Residency at the University of Texas-Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. Patrick Redmond, M.D. is a Board-Certified ophthalmologist who specializes in treatment of eye diseases, such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. He also performs surgery of the eye including no-stitch and bladeless cataract surgery, premium lens implant surgery, LASIK, and blepharoplasty (eyelid) surgery.

RICHARD M.WALTERS, OD He received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1976. He went on to obtain his Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of Alabama School of Optometry. He practiced general optometry in the United States Army at Fort Polk and opened a private practice in Alexandria and has been practicing at Louisiana Eye & Laser Center Center since 1986. Dr. Walters specializes in general practice optometry, low vision, glasses and contact lenses.

Louisiana Eye and Laser is the former office of Dr. John Cooksey, who practiced ophthalmology in Monroe since 1972. He served as a mentor and trained residents from the Ochsner Foundation Hospital and LSU Medical Center in Shreveport for two decades. He is excited to pass the baton to the next generation. In fact, Dr. Redmond performed Dr. Cooksey’s cataract surgery on him, which speaks to the trust he has in him.

Our team of professionals is dedicated to serving the needs of each patient, showing genuine concern for them and offering a personalized experience so that we can find the best treatment for their eyes. Call us today for any of your eye needs!

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Liver Clinic Opens at Morehouse General Hospital

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PPROXIMATELY ONE INTEN AMERICANS ARE AFFECTED by liver disease and up to 50% of them have no symptoms.

There are many causes of liver disease, but two more prominent diseases deserve special mention.

Hepatitis C is a viral liver disease that affects approximately 5 million Americans of which 2/3 of people are unaware they are infected. The CDC recommends that everyone be tested at least once in their adult lifetime. Those that know they have HCV, 2/3 of them have not received treatment largely due to lack of access to care. New direct acting antiviral therapies (DAAs) for 2-3 months are safe and effective providing an overall 95% cure rate in this one dreaded disease.

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) affects 30-40% of Americans and is the most common liver disease. NAFLD is caused by the build up of fat in the liver (not caused by alcohol). It is more common in certain conditions such as obesity (30-90% prevalence), Type 2 Diabetes (40-80% prevalence), and high cholesterol/triglyceride.

Serious risks are linked with NAFLD which over-time can lead to inflammation (steatohepatitis), scarring (cirrhosis), and even liver failure or liver cancer.

In its earliest stages of liver disease, patients are asymptomatic unless your medical provider finds abnormal liver blood tests at a routine check-up. To assess the cause of liver disease and the degree of liver damage a number of tests may be required including blood tests and imaging tests (CT, Ultrasound, MRI).

Despite these tests a true determination of the degree of liver damage may not be accurate without liver biopsy, which is an invasive test requiring a sample of the liver. New non-invasive tests have been developed that are painless and can provide accuracy of the extent of liver damage close to liver biopsy (90-95% accuracy). The newer tests may be used instead of liver biopsy because they are less invasive, but not widely available and include Transient Elastography (FibroScan - 10 minute painless test) & Magnetic Resonance Elastorgraphy (MRE).

Morehouse General Hospital has instituted a dedicated Liver Clinic under the direction of Dr. Raj Bhandari & Maribeth Gambill, NP, to help accommodate patients with liver related disorders in our community.

This clinic has been a key clinical research site participating in clinical trials. This research site is currently conducting active NAFLD clinical trials and helped with the approval of DAAs for HCV by the FDA in 2015 & 2016. Patients can be seen remotely via telemedicine. If noninvasive testing (FibroScan/MRE) are required, appointments will be made promptly. Medicines such as DAAs for HCV if necessary, will be mailed by a specialty pharmacy directly to the patient’s home and follow-up visits will be conducted via telemedicine to limit the inconvenience of travel. In most cases no referral is required. All insurances are accepted including Louisianan Medicaid, Medicare, and all private insurers. In most cases even a patient with no health insurance we can often obtain approval for DAAs for HCV.

If you are interested in obtaining more information or would like to make an appointment you can call: Morehouse General Physicians Clinic Dr. Raj Bhandari 318-283-3990 Delta Research Partners Casey Petrus, CRC 318-281-6040 WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2021 81

Color Me Happy

Harrison Paint Co. Is Your One-Stop Paint Shop

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AVE YOU BEEN LOOKING FOR a reason to add a little color to your life? Harrison Paint Co. can offer a little “primer” on why you should add color to your walls this season. Paint is one of the easiest and quickest ways to transform any space.

Whether you want to turn your room into a serene sanctuary or a shade that will shine, the professionals at Harrison Paint will help direct you to the Benjamin Moore color best suited for your space.

Fresh, cheerful and easy to decorate – pink is one of our hottest hues for 2021. Looking for a great pink for an accent wall? Benjamin Moore’s Peony is a deep pink with a hint of black that makes it ideal for those seeking a vibrant color that’s not overpowering. On the other end of the spectrum is I Love You Pink, a soft, airy pastel that would be perfectly suited

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for an entire room. We also love Valentine’s Day, perfectly named for the holiday celebrating love – this pale pink will transport you to a place of positivity and femininity.

Blush, coral, fuchsia – no matter what shade of pink you choose, this hue offers a surprising range. While pink has been a longstanding favorite for girls’ rooms, this hue has a sophisticated side with soft and muted blush tones perfect for a dining room or living room. For a bold look, deep magenta balanced with cream trim or wainscoting offers classic glamour. Pair pink paint with white, grays and neutrals, or create contrast with deep brown or black, revealing the versatility of this color.

Still unsure of what color to choose, contact the professionals at Harrison Paint Co. This one-stop-shop has been serving the ArkLaTex since 1950. As a minority-owned

small business, Harrison Paint Co. can help with all of your paint, coatings, stain, stucco and sundries needs. They are proud to be a Graco Facility Trained Service Center with 2 certified repair technicians. Industry specific education and training is a priority as evident of the MPI Level 1 Architectural Coating Technologists and NACE Level 3 Certified Coating Inspector.

With multiple locations to serve you, Harrison Paint is conveniently located at 1900 Cypress Street in West Monroe. They also have locations in Bossier City and Shreveport. For more information, call them at (318) 812-0932 or visit their website harrisonpaintco.com

Show Your Skin Some Heart Your Heart is the Key to Healthy Looking Skin

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EBRUARY CERTAINLY HAS A LOT PACKED INTO IT FOR such a short month: Valentine’s Day, Mardi Gras, AfricanAmerican History Month, American Heart Month and so much more. This year, these celebrations will look a lot different, but that doesn’t mean we won’t be marking the occasions. It’s especially important that we use this month to assess our heart health, and you could also be doing your skin a big favor.

Your skin is a great indication of what is happening with your body. If your skin looks great, things tend to be fine. On the other hand if your skin doesn’t look good, there’s probably an issue.

During Heart Month, we’re all encouraged to eat healthier, get more exercise and more sleep, and quit smoking, among other things.

While these steps will improve our overall health, it will also help our skin look its best.

Our skin contains a system of blood vessels. When we exercise and get our heart really pumping, the blood carries oxygen and nutrients to skin cells. Take a look in the mirror after your next workout. You’ll notice your skin has a flushed look and that your cheeks are rosy.

That’s all because of the blood your heart is pumping, as well as the oxygen and nutrients it brings to your skin cells.

Our heart also helps with increasing the production of collagen, which keeps our skin plump and youthful-looking. It helps to renew skin cells, which keeps your skin’s elasticity. Just as your blood brings oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells, it also carries away the bad things that cause your skin to age.

If you plan on participating in outdoor activities or exercising outdoors, don’t forget the sunblock. Even though it’s February, the sun can still cause a sunburn and damage your skin.

At Louisiana Center for Women’s Health, our team of experts will help you find the right sunblock and moisturizers for your skin. If the sun has already caused damage, we offer the latest technology to improve the way your skin looks. From wrinkles and fine lines to dark spots, we can help you look and feel your best.

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SIMPLY LOU DRIVIN’ MY LIFE AWAY article and illustration by LOU DAVE NPORT

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ere in my car, I feel safest of all. I can lock all the doors. It’s the only way to live…

I read somewhere that you can tell the “eras” of your life by the cars you remember. That’s true for me. I was a real “car nut” when I was little, and could tell you every make and model of nearly every car. I couldn’t do that now, but I sure do remember every car I’ve ever “known and loved.”

“Ooh I’m drivin’ my life away, lookin’ for a better way… for me...”

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because it came my way from one of my cousins and her husband, who “made me an offer I could not refuse.” I love it. I hate to admit that there are still things in the back of it from the last time I moved, but I just figure it’s my extra “storage building.”

Goodness knows I was in need of a newer car. After my husband died, I eventually had to buy myself a new car, all by myself. I had never done that before.

“Clowns to the left of me… jokers to the right…”

The little Safari minivan I had while the kids were growing up holds so many memories, good and bad, for me. That van

witnessed seeing me throw some hellacious pity parties, panic attacks, the whole nine yards. That van also made so many trips to Jackson for Larry’s doctor appointments, or when he had to spend time in the hospital.

Coming home from there one day, I got pulled over by the biggest Mississippi State Trooper the State of Mississippi had and I just fell apart and started sobbing, not even knowing yet why he had actually pulled me over. I started telling my whole story, not to get out of a ticket, but I think I just needed to get a lot of pent up emotions out, and Mr. Trooper-man just opened the flood gates. He only pulled me over to tell me my inspection sticker was out. I’m sure he let me go with a warning instead of a ticket so that he could get away from my crazy, crying self!

That van helped me haul around three kids, who were all involved in many activities. It sure did come in handy. I made the rounds to three different schools for a few years, taking and picking them all up every day. Clothes were changed, baseball gear stored, various musical instruments flew in and out, ballet costumes poofed out everywhere, many stories told, and we always had some good loud music going. We rolled!!

“You! Yeah, you! Get into my car!”

So, the time came to where I knew I had to get a newer, more dependable, car. I hoped to find one that would last as long as possible, since I had no idea what my future held. So, I drove a lot of different cars, and decided I liked and wanted a Toyota 4-Runner, with 4 wheel drive. The salesman told me, “You don’t want that.” Oh, really? He lost a sale, and I found a much better deal and 4-Runner elsewhere. That 4-Runner became my “tank,” where I felt safe. I drove that car for over 15 years. Paige and Matt have it now and I still get to see the first car I ever bought.

“Long may she run…”

Before I had my van, I had a black Pontiac Gran Prix. I wouldn’t say it was the most practical car to have when you have little kids, but times were different, and it is crazy that car seats were NOT a big deal back then. Mine would have figured out a way to get out of one anyway. It was the car I drove back and forth from Aberdeen, Mississippi to Vicksburg, down the Natchez Trace, when we got to move. It took several trips to find a house, but on the last one, the kids and I packed up the cat, “Kitty Boy,” and hit the road. Not five minutes out, Kitty Boy escaped from his carrier, and I thought we were about to have a “wild cat” tearing up the car! But, strangely, he curled up next to the kids, and slept all the way to the new house in Vicksburg! I took that as a good sign that we were going where we needed to be going.

Before the Gran Prix, I had a Oldsmobile Cutlass. I had it before I got married, and I do believe my Dad “bribed” me with it so that I’d commute to ULM and not stay in the dorm. (He was probably right. I know I would have really had a good time living there!) Driving that car got me my first and ONLY speeding ticket. And I was so guilty! I took Hwy 139 from Bastrop to Monroe, and it was a very curvy, twolane highway then. I had just rounded “Dead Man’s Curve,” going about 80, when I saw the blue lights of a State Trooper car racing after me! It scared me almost to death!

“Never could tow the mark, and I never could walk the line...”

I was on my way to take my first math test, and I, of course, was running late. Again, I started crying. This time it wasn’t so much from an intimidating State Trooper, but from me not wanting to go back home to face my dad. The Trooper did take a little pity on me. He wrote that I was doing 70 instead of 82. As I slowly drove away with my ticket, all I could think was “Duke is going to kill me!” I even sat in the parking lot at Johnny’s Pizza for a while, just trying to gather my courage! Some of my aunts were at our house when I got home, so they ran a little interference for me. He didn’t get too angry, MUCH less than what I had pictured and built up in my head, but I did have to suffer one of his “talks,” and those were never fun.

“…busted for things I did…”

I will say, that State Trooper probably saved my life that day. I was young and stupid, and I’m grateful to that man for making me learn a valuable lesson. I have never sped (like that) again, and that has been 50 years ago. My kids pick on me that I drive too slow, but, as I see it, where do I have to go that I have to be in that big of a hurry?

(I also failed that math test.)

I learned to drive in my mama’s big Wildcat Buick. My daddy taught me how to drive it on the gravel roads out in the Game Reserve

above Bastrop. I drove, and he looked for deer. That car was so big that eight people could get in there and be comfortable. In Bastrop, where “cruising” was all we had to do, I “cruised” with a car full sometimes!

“I love it when we’re cruisin’ together.”

That car took us on two trips out west. It got us all the way up Pike’s Peak, the Grand Canyon, and to see “Old Faithful” at Yellowstone. My daddy drove it right down the freeway in LA and into the parking lot of Disneyland, where he promised to bring us back the next day. He lied. He headed right back to Louisiana the next day by way of riding down the Strip in Las Vegas!

“Viva Las Vegas!”

As I’ve told y’all before, my daddy loved big cars! My favorite car he ever bought was a blue 1957 Oldsmobile 88, the summer before I went to first grade. We went to Carlsbad, New Mexico, and my main memory was of how big Texas was! I kept asking, over and over, “Are we through Texas yet?”

“Waltz across Texas…..”

The very first car we had that I can remember was a red 1955 Oldsmobile Super 88. I was sick a lot back then, and they would prescribe this tasty cough syrup! I slipped around and drank nearly three fourths of the bottle, and when my mama found out, she called the doctor. I hid under the bed afraid I would have to go get a shot!

He told her I’d be fine, either sleepy or “drunk as a skunk.” Do I even have to say what I did? I remember dancing my little self all around the back seat to Elvis singing “Hound Dog!” I had a great time, but my Mama kept that cough syrup hid from then on out!

“You ain’t nothin’ but a Houng Dog…cryin’ all the time!”

Lyrics from Waylon Jennings, Elvis Presley, Ernest Tubb, Billy Ocean, Smoky Robinson, Neil Young, Gary Numan, Eddie Rabbit, and Stealers

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The Platter & Sugar Bakery

Local Businesses Celebrate Holidays and More

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EBRUARY IS FILLED WITH FUN HOLIDAYS AND THE Platter is here to help you celebrate them all! There’s no holiday sweeter than Valentine’s Day and The Platter has an assortment of platters featuring sweet treats available at both of their locations in West Monroe and Ruston. You can get a simple heart tray filled with cheese, fruit, candy, chocolate and pound cake as well as sweets by the dozen. The Platter is excited to offer chocolate dipped strawberries, which were a huge hit when they offered them last year. Strawberries come in a variety of options - a dozen single dipped for $24.99, a dozen double dipped for $29.99 and a dozen gourmet for $35.99. They have a limited supply so be sure to place your order today. Valentine’s Day platters are filled with pink and purple hues with delicious desserts like cookies, brownies, chocolate covered pretzels, mini cupcakes, candy and more. Small platters would make the perfect treat to bring to school for Valentine’s Day parties! The Platter can customize your tray to accommodate anything you are craving and for special dietary restrictions as well.

If your sweetie has more of a savory palate, you can get a charcuterie board. The Best Charcuterie Platter features stuffed olives, nuts, salami, prosciutto, ham, cheddar, gouda, provolone, brie, blue cheese, mozzarella, fruit, pepper jelly, pesto, spicy mustard and more.

It’s just one of the many meat, cheese, veggie and fruit combos to choose from. And for the guy or gal with a real sweet treat, check out The Platter’s sister company, Sugar Bakery. The local speciality bakery features cakes, cookies, donuts, brownies, pastries and more at their shop on McMillian Street in West Monroe. They recently introduced their Grab-N-Go section where you can grab sweet treats like parfaits, individual and whole pies. And if you want to taste a little bit of everything they have to offer, be sure to go by and see them on Wednesdays where everything on the counter is $1! Each week will be different depending on availability. Over the holiday season, Sugar Bakery introduced their chocolate shot glasses. “We are always trying new things and offering creative culinary options,” said Jodi White.

Jodi strives for all of her businesses to be unique and one-of-a-kind.

In fact, she recently traveled to New York City to see what is on trend when it comes to treats and goodies. “We want to stand out and be unique and we pride ourselves on that!” she says.

This month is also everyone’s favorite regional holiday - Mardi Gras! And while parades won’t be rolling through the Twin Cities like normal, you can still celebrate the fact we live in Louisiana! The Platter offers Mardi Gras themed platters with bright purple, green and gold goodies. Sugar Bakery offers fresh, made in house King Cakes in a variety of flavors. They are available whole and by the slice.

The Platter also offers daily lunches during the week. Some options include boiled shrimp with potatoes and corn, hamburger steak with rice and gravy, meatloaf, cajun chicken pasta, just to name a few. Lunches come with a drink and are just $9.50. You can dine in or take the lunches to go. The Ruston location plans on having lunches available very soon!

Stop by The Platter on Cypress Street in West Monroe, Celebrity Drive in Ruston and Sugar Bakery in West Monroe. They are excited to continue to grow and evolve and are ready to help you celebrate no matter the occasion!

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Bedroom Causing the Blues?

A New Treatment for Women and Men to Improve Intimacy

BY JUDY WAGONER

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ALL IT THE SHOT HEARD around the world—only this time the revolution is on behalf of modern men and women. The O-Shot is a non-invasive treatment, that aims to alleviate female sexual dysfunction and urinary stress incontinence.

The O-Shot® is a revolutionary approach to restoring the sensations lost or perhaps never even had. It is an all-natural, comfortable, non-surgical procedure that can rejuvenate and revitalize vaginal and clitoral function, improve sensitivity and significantly enhance sex drive. It’s also been shown to dramatically improve urinary stress incontinence.

The O-Shot uses the patient’s blood so there can be no allergic reaction to it. The blood is drawn and placed in a centrifuge to separate the Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP. The PRP is then injected near the clitoris and vaginal wall (after the area is thoroughly numbed).

The PRP then releases growth factors that

stimulate growth and repair. There is an immediate volumizing effect, which lasts up to a week. The real payoff, though, comes over the next few weeks and months, as the PRP stimulates the growth of cells, collagen, and blood vessels. The overall effect should last at least 18 months. Patients report increased sexual desire and improved ability to achieve orgasm. The same method can be applied to men. Men see similar results with sensitivity, orgasm, girth, and stronger erections.

Professional Laser Center Medical Director, Dr. Victor Zuckerman, has received advanced training in the injection of Platelet Rich Plasma from Dr. Charles Runels, creator of the Vampire FaceLift, as well as the O-Shot and P-Shot.

As an adjunct to the O-Shot, our newest addition to Professional Laser Center, is the “vFit Plus” Feminine Wellness Device. It is a “Physician Strength,” at-home medical

device….that works!

Feminine wellness issues are a pervasive problem with up to 1/3 of women suffering from pelvic floor issues, such as bladder leakage, dryness and painful intercourse. “vFit Plus” is the first medical device of its kind that can be used comfortably in the privacy of your home.

It provides red light technology and sonic vibrations to improve feminine and vaginal health. Results can be seen in one to six weeks, and then a maintenance schedule of twice a week is followed. The red light produces photobiomodulatory effects that help with blood flow, reducing inflammation and pain in the vaginal mucosa. The heat also brings oxygen, protein, and nutrients to the area to heal the tissues, increase collagen production and restore elasticity and moisture to the vagina. The sonic vibrations help tighten the muscles of the pelvic floor, increasing muscle tone. Plus, it improves sexual function, sensation, pleasure, and intimacy. vFit was created by women, for women, to boost confidence and intimate wellness.

To further enhance pleasure in the bedroom, Dr. Zuckerman specializes in hormone replacement therapy.

Balanced hormones are essential for desire and bedroom performance.

What a great Valentine’s gift any of these would make. Call 318-361-9066 today for a free consultation or to schedule an appointment.

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Bring Your Design Dreams to Reality

Terri Trichel Interiors Can Do Just that Without Breaking the Bank

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ITH OVER THREE DECADES OF experience, Terri Trichel is known as one of the top design professionals in Northeast Louisiana. Terri has an interior design degree from Louisiana Tech University.

She stays up-to-date with current trends and styles and offers residential and commercial services.

Terri Trichel Interiors offers a variety of services including custom window treatments, space planning, floor plans and furniture arrangement. With their professional supervision and design expterise, Terri Trichel Interiors can make any space come alive. “One misconception people have is that they can’t afford interior design services,” says Terri Trichell. “We offer competitive pricing that works with our clients’ budgets and can work on all projects big and small.” Terri Trichell can do everything from rearranging and updating a bedroom to designing an entire newly constructed home.

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How often have you considered transforming your home to match your changing lifestyle or comfort level? You may have considered home remodeling services but decided against this because of the high costs associated with such projects. Thankfully, there is a cost-effective alternative that can give your home long-lasting character and appeal. Instead of investing your money in a remodeling project that can take months even when everything goes according to plan, try making your vision come true through interior design.

Terri specializes in comprehensive floor planning. She is the one you call when you wish to give your home or business its own unique look. Terri has many materials and styles for you to choose from. She can help achieve the right look for any space at your property.

From windows, custom draperies, bedding, upholstery and accessories, she leaves no stone unturned. Her professional interior design

services will surely impress you and every visitor to your home.

Terri’s newest project took her 22 hours away to the great state of Utah. A couple from West Monroe that Terri has done two houses for decided to move to there. The couple came to her with a set of ideas and plans for Terri to tweak and come up with a design for. The couple left all of their furniture and decor in West Monroe and started fresh in their new home with a totally new look. Terri said, “When you have a clean slate it is much easier to put together than when you already have some pieces that you have to incorporate and work with, so this project was exciting for the both of them.”

Terri Trichel Interiors, Inc. is proud to offer -top notch interior design services to residential and commercial customers in Monroe, LA. We will give you the look you want for less!

Understanding Cravings and Hunger Consider Ideal Protein - Now Available through St. Francis Medical Group

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HE IDEAL PROTEIN PROTOCOL, now available through St. Francis Medical Group, is one option you may want to consider if you are interested in beginning a weight loss program.

When making the decision to start any type of diet, limiting your caloric intake is usually a part of the process which may create a feeling of being hungry. However, it’s important to understand the difference between cravings and actual hunger.

Cravings are defined as a pleasant response to food, characterized by their intensity and their specificity. Typically, we have triggers that set us off, such as hunger, stress, emotions, particular places, and of course the sight and smell of the item in question. Research indicates that cravings typically last on average 3 to 5 minutes.

Hunger is defined as a feeling of discomfort or weakness caused by a lack of food, coupled with the desire to eat. So, how do you identify

which one you are experiencing, craving, or hunger? Simply put, if you would rather eat chocolate over chicken or lettuce, then you are probably experiencing a craving. If you would eat anything, including the chicken and lettuce, then you are hungry.

When cravings begin, you can overcome these challenging thoughts, even though it may be hard. Working on your mindset is critical. Here are some ideas that can help you stay on track and get the results that you have been working so hard to achieve.

1.

Know Your Why! Remind yourself why you started this journey and post your “why” around the house. Post it on the fridge, mirrors, and computer/laptop.

Some examples could be to reduce my medications, to be able to climb a flight of stairs and not be out of breath or to watch my grandchildren grow up and be able to play with them.

2. Keep Your Mind Busy! It’s that simple. If

boredom leads you to eat mindlessly, then don’t allow yourself to go there. Start an activity such as a puzzle or board game.

Practice mindfulness through meditation or journaling. Reach out to a friend and have a conversation. Choose a solitary activity such as reading or painting. Learn something new, like knitting or a new language.

3. Keep Your Body Moving! Go for a walk, a light run, or a bike ride. Turn on music and dance like no one is watching, even if they are! Practice yoga or do a light workout with stuff around the house (use cans or water bottles as weights). Enjoy an outside activity such as raking leaves or gardening.

Our Ideal Protein Coach, Kyla Swett, can offer additional resources to help you fight cravings and hunger once you begin the Ideal Protein Protocol. Call Kyla at (318) 966-2001 for information on how you can attend a free webinar to learn more. You may also visit our website at www.stfran.com/idealprotein.

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BAYOU ARTIST

Elizabeth Prine

Since the summer of 2020, Elizabeth has shared her passion for quilting with others by teaching classes at Material Things in Monroe, owned by Joyce Sims

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reative is the term Elizabeth Prine feels best describes her.

She will tell you plainly, “I don’t like the term artist because it’s not self-expression for me. I just like to make things pretty.” Yet in her quilting, Elizabeth has learned not to focus solely on the end product and to enjoy the process of getting there. In a time of chaos and change, this has been an invaluable lesson for her.

Elizabeth grew up in Bastrop, Louisiana, an only child. Her father works for International Paper, and her mother sells real estate but taught full-time during Elizabeth’s childhood while sewing children’s heirloom clothing on the side. “She always had a sewing room in any house,” Elizabeth recalled. She also remembers joining her mother as she attended the local quilting group, a skill that would go on to feature prominently in both of their lives. “My mom would pin the pieces, and I would sew.” By the age of three, Elizabeth had made her first quilt. . ar ticle by AL ANA WAGNER photography by K ELLY MOORE CL ARK

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he creative influences in Elizabeth’s life expanded when she was twelve years old. Her mother opened up a flower shop, and her grandmother opened up an antique shop at the same time and just two doors down. Much like Elizabeth’s mother, her grandmother had a “hobby room” in her house where she painted china. Elizabeth’s mother had her work in the flower shop “because Mom didn’t trust anybody else to do what she was doing. It was new and different.” While there were times when Elizabeth wished she could have her Saturdays free, she still loved working in her mother’s shop.

She was also involved in her grandmother’s shop, going with her to markets to “help make decisions” or when she had her own booths. Attending flea markets and malls with her mother and grandmother is an especially fond memory for Elizabeth. Every Friday night was auction night. “We had reserved seats,” Elizabeth said, joking about times when her mother and grandmother got so competitive that they would accidentally bid against each other. Elizabeth still stops in an antique store, thrift store, or flea market any time she finds one.

Sewing had become a hobby for Elizabeth by the time she enrolled at the University of Louisiana at Monroe to study interior design. While in college, she became roommates with Kayla Lee, who also had a love of sewing. Following her family’s traditions, Elizabeth set up their dining room as the sewing room, where they would stay up all night. She enjoyed having someone her age who loved sewing as much as she did, noting her mother was only twenty-two years old when she joined the quilting group and must have looked out of place.

While in school, Elizabeth married Cole, her husband of thirteen years. Cole is also a creative, working in videography and media production. “He was the guy in town,” Elizabeth said of Cole’s seven years as a wedding videographer. He currently works on production for several podcasts for the Roberston family, most popularly known for their television series Duck Dynasty.

After Elizabeth graduated, she worked in Monroe, first at Fabulous Fabrics for one year and then at St. Frederick High School teaching home economics for two years. In 2013, she decided to stay home with her two children, Clementine and Huck.

It was during this time that quilting came back into view for Elizabeth. She attended the International Quilt Festival in Houston, Texas, with her mother. Part of the festival was dedicated to displaying quilts, part to vendor space. “I fell in love with seeing all the vendors and seeing the modern fabric that was coming out,” she said of walking up and down the rows of booths.

She purchased some fabric with raccoons on it that had caught her eye. Because she was only sewing small pieces at that time, the fabric sat for a while before she began quilting. Once she was ready, her mother decided to start quilting again with her.

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Bringing her interior design background into her quilting, Elizabeth emphasizes color theory and patterns. “For me, that’s where the art happens. It’s pairing together unexpected colors and mixing modern fabrics with vintage fabrics.”

Flowers also made an unexpected reappearance in Elizabeth’s life. Her friend Kayla had been working in a creative field, too, becoming the visual manager at Anthropologie, a women’s apparel and lifestyle store, in New Orleans. She had also been working in weddings, and she asked Elizabeth for help with a wedding that would heavily feature flowers. “We had always wanted to work together in something creative. It started with me coming in to help; then, we realized this was it and went, Okay, let’s do this.”

In 2014, Elizabeth and Kayla began their floral design service We Are Gathered.

For six years, We Are Gathered provided wedding florals that incorporated fruit, paired unexpected and unique colors, and offered Elizabeth and Kayla a creative outlet. However, the majority of their clients were in the New Orleans area, so those six years also included long travel days and multiple weekend trips in one month. Adding to all of this, Elizabeth’s children were very young: Clementine was two years old, and Huck was just one month. “I would be holding a bouquet in one hand and a baby in the other,” she said of the lengths she went to meet her clients’ needs and the standard she and Kayla had set for We Are Gathered.

Her husband’s support was key in getting through these years. Elizabeth was grateful that, because Cole is also a creative, he understood what it was like to push through to meet the deadline even when the inspiration wasn’t there. She could also count on him for anything from taking care of their kids for the weekend to helping her set up the venue.

“Sometimes, I would tell him, ‘I need this, but I don’t know how that’s going to happen,’ and I could come back and he would have exactly what I needed,” she said in warm praise.

BAYOU ARTIST

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ALL OF THIS BUSTLE CAME TO A SUDDEN HALT in 2020. The outbreak of the coronavirus led to heavy restrictions on large group gatherings, particularly in New Orleans where the spread of the virus was devastating. A wave of wedding cancellations and an ongoing air of uncertainty left Elizabeth and Kayla at a standstill for much of the first half of the year. But they soon noticed that they felt relieved more than anything else; the busyness of the weddings had partly eclipsed the fun, creative outlet they provided. The two decided that it was the right time to be done with We Are Gathered.

This unexpected ending afforded Elizabeth the opportunity to evaluate what she truly wanted to do and what she felt like she needed to do. “The pandemic helped me realize this pressure to always do something.

I learned that I don’t have to be doing something all the time,” Elizabeth said. She had been quilting for seven years but never had the time or energy she wanted to devote to it. “Work kept me from doing it as much as I wanted. I used all of my creativity to make a bouquet.”

Encouraged and supported by her husband, she decided to give quilting her full attention.

Elizabeth also realized that she could be creative simply because she wanted to. “It can just be for fun. I don’t always have to figure out how to make money with my creativity.” While she is willing to sell her quilts, she does not make them on commission. “I’ve made custom quilts in the past, maybe ten, but it always caused me stress.” Having a deadline to meet and wondering if the customer will like the finished product were worries that she didn’t want to have. “I freed myself from that,” she stated proudly. Instead, since the summer of 2020, Elizabeth has shared her quilting with others by teaching classes at Material Things in Monroe, owned by Joyce Sims.

Bringing her interior design background into her quilting, Elizabeth emphasizes color theory and patterns. “For me, that’s where the art happens. It’s pairing together unexpected colors and mixing modern fabrics with vintage fabrics.” The fabric is her starting place. Sometimes, she finds a fabric that she immediately knows she wants to use, and next is figuring out what she wants to do with it. Those fabrics can be modern, “fresh” colors or vintage linens, napkins, or aprons, a particular favorite for Elizabeth to collect and try to incorporate.

Another design aspect that Elizabeth enjoys in planning her quilts is creating a mood board, a collection of colors and images that give a visual representation of the style of a design. “I love making mood boards. It’s what I did 90% of the time for wedding clients. It helps me figure out what I want to do.”

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Elizabeth is glad to see that other people are also taking time to slow down, enjoy what they are doing, and even learn new skills like quilting. “Quilting is completely attainable.

Anyone can learn,” she wants people to know.

Technique is just as integral to Elizabeth’s process. She prefers traditional methods like needle turn applique, a process where a piece of fabric is applied to another piece and the raw edges are turned down and hand-stitched. She learned these techniques from Australian quilters, most notably Jen Kingwell, from whom Elizabeth had the chance to learn in person. “They emphasize using what you already have, doing it by hand, enjoying the process rather than thinking, How many can I make this week?” This practice of learning to enjoy the process rather than focus on the product has been the most important takeaway for Elizabeth.

Elizabeth has also learned how to incorporate her faith into her quilting. She attended QuiltCon in Austin, Texas, and heard from the Gee’s Bend quilters, a group of women in the isolated black community of Gee’s Bend, Alabama, whose ancestry traces directly back to men and women enslaved on the local Pettway Plantation. These women did not place too much importance on their product but, instead, used it as a way to talk about God and their personal faith, which Elizabeth admired. She joked that she will sometimes get odd looks for her attempts to share her faith in her groups, but she appreciates the opportunity to share herself. She tells people to “come for the fabric and stay for the friends” because her goal isn’t just providing a great shopping experience but providing a community, as well.

Elizabeth is glad to see that other people are also taking time to slow down, enjoy what they are doing, and even learn new skills like quilting. “Quilting is completely attainable. Anyone can learn,” she wants people to know.

And she wants people to enjoy the process, as she has learned to do. “It’s not about the finished product. It doesn’t matter how long it takes. It’s about savoring every stitch.

Enjoy every step.”

Elizabeth’s quilts can be seen on her Instagram, @ threadintheclouds. She teaches at Material Things, located at 2305 Forsythe Avenue in Monroe, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. You can follow the shop on Instagram @material_ things_haberdashery to see her upcoming classes and reserve a seat.

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Bayou Pages

“The Things We Cannot Say” by Kelly Rimmer REVIEW B Y MEREDITH MCKI NNI E

“Life has a way of shattering our expectations, of leaving our hopes in pieces without explanation. But when there’s love in a family, the fragments left behind from our shattered dreams can always be pulled together again, even if the end result is a mosaic.”

Rimmer’s novel tells the story of Alina and Alice, mother and granddaughter, alike in spirit. Alina was raised in Poland on a small farm with her siblings. When the Nazi invasion took place, Alina was only a teenage girl, deep in loved with Tomasz Slaski. She sees the people she loves brutalized by the Nazi regime, her farm reduced to poverty, and her family battling the urge to retreat or fight the inevitable. She is forced to mature in the harshest of conditions.

Tomasz is away at university studying to become a doctor, and Alina relies on their love to see her through the war. Rimmer’s scenes of Nazi occupation are brutally honest and at times, difficult to read simply because that life is unfathomable. The bravery to continue in a world of heartbreak is heart wrenching. Alina discovers her resourcefulness and uses her desperation as strength to fight for her love and her survival.

Decades later in America, Alice is ten years into a distant marriage, complicated by the needs of an autistic son and a husband unwilling to engage with him. She is the sole caretaker of Eddie who needs constant supervision and can hardly communicate. The title of the novel refers to the little boy who is searching for a voice and an elderly grandmother who wants her secrets discovered.

Eddie and Alina have a strong bond, and Alina encourages Alice to uncover Alina’s past that’s been hidden for 80 years. To accept her grandmother’s request means relying on her husband to care for Eddie, a prospect that makes Alice more than uncomfortable.

Each chapter moves back and forth from Alina and Alice’s present life in America to Alina’s past in Poland. The reality of Nazi occupation is not a history we don’t already know, but told through the impact on a family gives an especially emotional punch.

Rimmer weaves hope and heartbreak and historical accuracy well, relying on many of the stories from her own family’s experience in Poland. The opening scene of the novel suggests a certain ending that is complicated by the page-turning plot. Alice’s sections, while adequately detailing the hardship of raising a child with special needs, provides necessary reprieve from the weight of a war novel.

The characters must find the strength within, even under the direst circumstances. It’s about taking what life has offered you, fair or not, and finding the beauty in choosing each day to live.

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Spa Bella and Bella Magnolia Relax this Valentine’s Day

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PA BELLA IS LOCATED INTHE HEART OF DOWNTOWN West Monroe and is the place to find all of your Valentine’s Day goodies! Locally owned by Kristan Berry, Spa Bella is conveniently located on Wood Street, just steps away from Trenton Street and Antique Alley. Whether you are looking to pamper yourself or your sweetie, they have something for everyone.

You can even book a couple’s massage, the perfect way to spend some time together. Spa Bella sells gift certificates for all of the services they offer, allowing you to the give the gift of relaxation and pampering. They offer a variety of massage options including Swedish, therapeutic, deep tissue, medical and soothing stone.

You can even relax in their infrared sauna prior to your massage, allowing your muscles to relax and get the most of your treatment.

They also specialize in facials including the Opti Resurfacing Treatment, a luxurious treatment that infuses oxygen, peptides and minerals that leave your skin lightened and brightened. This is just one of the many options they offer and can even customize treatment based on your specific skincare needs.

Spa Bella is excited to now include lashes, permanent makeup and microblading to the list of services they offer. The permanent makeup includes eyeliner, lip liner and eyebrows, all applied by a licensed esthetician. These services will help you best your best face forward - whether you are going on a hot Valentine’s Day date or just want to be beautiful for the new year! Spa Bella also carries the entire line of products from Bathhouse Soapery, a handmade soap, bath and beauty company that makes fresh cosmetics in Hot Springs, Arkansas. They offer soaps, soaking salts, bath bombs and scrubs, body butter, deodorant, shaving accessories, room and linen sprays and more. They even have items perfect for the hard to shop for guy. Check out their Honky Tonk Man Soap Slice, shaving brushes, Moonshine shave soap and more. You can even create a custom gift box or basket this Valentine’s Day to ensure your sweetie is feeling relaxed, pampered and loved!

In addition to Spa Bella, Kristan is the proud owner of Bella Magnolia, a home and gift shop located right next door to the spa.

In addition to home decor throughout the year, Bella Magnolia carries seasonal items as well. For Valentine’s Day, they will have hot cocoa bombs, chocolate covered strawberries, truffles, turtles, chocolate covered pretzels and more. To really set the mood, check out their wall of candles from Milkhouse Candle Co. as well as the store’s own signature candle, featuring a unique home cologne fragrance. They can create a special gift basket with both Spa Bella and Bella Magnolia!

Both Spa Bella and Bella Magnolia have so much to choose from to make this Valentine’s Day special! And if you don’t know exactly what to get, you can always buy a gift certificate. Stop by and see Kristan and her staff in the heart of historic downtown West Monroe to ensure your Valentine’s Day is sweet!

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WM-WO Chamber

Presents Awards to Local Winners

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HE WEST MONROE-WEST OUACHITA CHAMBER OF Commerce is pleased to announce the winners of this year’s A.O. Evans, Johnny Huntsman Entrepreneurial Success Award, and Diplomat of the Year.

These awards were presented at the Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Awards Ceremony on Friday, January 15th, 2021 at 111 Cotton.

Please join the Chamber in congratulating this year’s winners!

The A.O. Evans Award recognizes one individual in the area each year for outstanding contributions to the West Monroe and West Ouachita area. The recipient is not an elected official currently in office, nor do they currently serve on the Chamber Board of Directors and must have made several contributions to the betterment of our community.

The A.O. Evans Award was first presented in 1976 to Mr. A.T. Mitchell. When considering a name for the new award, the Chamber Board decided to name it in honor of the founder of the West MonroeWest Ouachita Chamber of Commerce – A.O. Evans.

The Chamber is proud to present this year’s A.O. Evans Award to Alana Cooper, President/CEO of the Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The Johnny Huntsman Entrepreneurial Success Award honors a current WMWO Chamber business member or individual member that exemplifies the true entrepreneurial spirit in three areas – employees, management style and entrepreneurial spirit and with a management style that fosters growth, loyalty and a deep desire to succeed.

This award was first presented in 2012 to Johnny’s Pizza House.

When considering a name for the award, the Chamber of commerce Board decided to name it in honor of the founder Mr. Johnny Huntsman. Johnny’s idea to make pizza in 1967 has grown to 3 states employing over 900 people.

The 2020 Johnny Huntsman Entrepreneurial Success Award was proudly presented to Mr. Nash Patel.

Each year the Chamber recognizes one individual as the Diplomat of the Year. The Chamber could not exist without its volunteers – whether it’s attending a ribbon cutting or volunteering at one of our many events. The Chamber Diplomats are the hospitality of our organization!

The Chamber proudly recognized Cyndi Tatum, P3 Promotional, as the 2020 Diplomat of the Year. With a diverse background from radio and tv to real estate and marketing, Cyndi and her team brings unparalleled customer focus to their clients.

With a mission to bring a holistic marketing approach to their clients considering budget, goals, market and target audience considerations, the team at P3 have become a unique marketing partner for their clients. As a female owned business with over 10 years in the promotions industry and 30 years in marketing, Cyndi gives her time, talents and considerable experience to so many in our community. As an entrepreneur and Chamber Member, she has built a reputation of amazing volunteerism and outstanding support to the mission of the Chamber.

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Valentine’s Myths and Fertility Bring Back the Magic

BY J. PRESTON PARRY, MD, MPH

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HERE WILL BE A LOT OF BABIES born near Christmas after Valentine’s Day “celebrations.” However, for couples trying to conceive, a forced schedule for relations can take away some of the fun and even magic that might otherwise be present.

There are several myths that when debunked can help make things more normal:

1. You have to have relations every day for peak fertility (myth). Sperm live 72 hours, so roughly if a couple has relations twice a week in the week or two around the middle of the cycle (if regular), that can go a long way.

2. Lubricants can make sperm more slippery and help them get where they need to be (myth). Most lubricants kill sperm, so make sure to get a “sperm-friendly” lubricant if using them.

3. You have to have relations as many times as possible on the day of ovulation (myth). Having seen couples where both

were sore to the point of barely being able to walk when acting on this myth, it isn’t necessary. Insemination often can double or triple pregnancy rates when increasing sperm counts fiftyfold. If it takes a fifty-fold increase to slightly increase chances an extra round or two on a day doesn’t seem to help much. (The contrary argument is “It can’t hurt,” and if both of you are in the mood, go for it!)

4. Sex at almost the exact time of ovulation favors a boy, while 2 ½-3 days before favors a girl (the Shettles method- myth). A landmark paper in the New England Journal of Medicine did not show a clear benefit, so the timing you choose relative to ovulation most likely makes chances of a boy or girl 50/50.

5. Eating pineapple, taking Geritol, or drinking Robitussin can help fertility (myth).

Though a lot of people have had a drink or two leading to conception, beyond creating opportunity more than one alcoholic drink a

day can lower pregnancy rates. Similarly, many of the diets or supplements that many say led to their having a child were a coincidence, where they would have been pregnant without taking them. Studies have dismissed pineapple, Geritol, and Robitussin helping. In fact, taking Robitussin-D can dry out cervical mucus, making it harder to conceive. Some also worry about the caffeine in chocolate having a negative effect. Pregnancy rates are lower with over 200 mg of caffeine a day which is 20 oz home-brewed coffee, but there is only 5 mg of caffeine per ounce of chocolate. If you are eating over three pounds of chocolate per day, caffeine associated-subfertility may not be your most important health issue.

In short, if wanting to conceive, have fun but there isn’t that much you can do to control it. (It is hard to make it better or worse on your own.) If the stress of subfertility starts becoming too much or you want to be more assertive about becoming a parent, just let us know. There are lots of things we can do for testing and treatment to help you on your journey.

Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day and we at Positive Steps Fertility hope 2021 is your most successful year yet!

Please join us on Facebook every first Friday of the month for First Friday Fertility Live 12:00 PM CST.

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Bayou Buzzworthy

Tickets are now on sale for the 2021 St. Jude Dream Home in Monroe! The house is being built by local home builder, Brian Allen with BRACO and designed by Jan Strickland of Strickland Interiors. She recently went on KARD’s Louisiana Living to discuss the home, which is a 4-bedroom, 3.5 bath home located in Frenchman’s Bend neighborhood and valued at approximately $350,000. Local sponsors include Coburn’s of West Monroe, LCR The Plumbing Warehouse, Sleepy Hollow Furniture, Custom Design Center and Sherwin Williams Paint. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased at www.dreamhome.org. The winner will be drawn live on April 18th!

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The City of West Monroe, Ouachita Green and Keep West Monroe Beautiful hosted a Tree Planting in honor of Arbor month on January 14th at the Riverbend Community Health Park, located between Riverbend Elementary and the West Monroe Community Center.

Representatives from both the City of West Monroe and Ouachita Parish School Board were on hand as well as students from the after school program at the West Monroe Community Center.

It’s a new era at ULM for the Warhawk’s football team. Terry Bowden, who has compiled a career record of 175-114-2 in 25 seasons as a collegiate head coach, has been named head coach at ULM. He brings a winning pedigree to our program. He has won at all levels of college football, beginning as the youngest head coach in the country in his first job at Salem College and continued through his tenure at Samford and Auburn, where he consistently competed for SEC Championships.

Bowden has also named other coaches under his leadership like Alonzo Hampton, Assistant Head Coach and Safeties Coach, Cornerbacks Coach Xavier Brewer, Running Backs Coach Rod McDowell and Offensive Line Coach Maverick Morris.

Do you have an event or idea that’s buzzworthy? Contact us to save a spot for you or your business!

Put A Little Love in Your Home Fall In Love with the Unexpected

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UR HOMES ARE THE DWELLINGS to which we retreat for solace and comfort. They are our safe havens. They provide us shelter as we create an atmosphere within its walls to bring us joy and peace.

As a new year begins, we look for ways to make changes in our lives. After a year like 2020, we have great hopes and want to create a happier year for ourselves. This may include redecorating our homes. We edit our surroundings to give the spaces a bit of change.

It may be changing up throw pillows and drapes. It could possibly be changing out the rug to anchor the room.

Several things come in to play. Where do we discard these furnishings to make way for the new? Where do we find unique pieces that cannot be found online or in a big box retailer?

The answer is simple.

Revival Design and Consign is the place.

Located in Historic Downtown Monroe along the Ouachita River, Revival is an ever evolving

10,000 square foot showroom of antiques, interiors finds and oddities. Revival is home to 24 local and regional artists and artisans displaying their art and creative talents. The showroom is in constant change, to house consignment merchandise from as far as Little Rock, New Orleans, Dallas, Jackson and beyond.

In addition, owner Clinton Downing and his team travel to hand-select the most unique treasures as well as timeless classics to provide an array of options to accent or revamp any space.

Revival current houses art works by Jason Byron Nelson, Parker Turner, Wilma Roy, Chastity McKaskle, Ricky Sikes, Laureen Ross Simmons, Lori Leath, Hank Holland, Paige Powell and a growing list.

In addition to the growing lists of artists, Revival is also expanding over the next few months. An apothecary area, a designer pet boutique, a reading room of great garden,

design and rare books. These additions will be capped off with Avant’ Garde’n, the new patio and garden area.

This area will consist of garden statuary, patio furniture, iron urns, concrete pots and other unique garden and patio elements. This space will also have a great selection of patio plants, herbs, and aquatic plants for that tranquil outdoor living space.

Revival is accepting consignments daily.

Drop off and pick ups can be scheduled by calling 318-381-8191 during our business hours Tuesday – Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or by email at revivaldesign318@gmail.com. Pickups can be arranged locally, regionally and statewide. Our pick-up areas cover Louisiana as well as parts of Arkansas, Mississippi and Texas. Reach out to Clinton Downing and his friendly staff for design services at 318-8075214 . Let them create a Revival in your life and a renewed love in your home.

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Running For the Kids

Kappa Delta - Delta Zeta KD Virtual 5k

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HE DELTA ZETA CHAPTER OF KAPPA DELTA Sorority was founded at the University of Louisiana Monroe in 1967, and since then has upheld the standards of all things honorable, beautiful, and highest. Kappa Delta Sorority started supporting Prevent Child Abuse America in 1981 and have been donating to their organization to help children across the nation.

Kappa Delta is committed to building confidence and inspiring action in not only its members but others as well.

This sisterhood believes that instilling confidence in children is essential to a great childhood. Child abuse and neglect destroys the confidence of children. This is why Kappa Delta is driven to help children everywhere and help them gain the confidence they need and deserve. By working with Prevent Child Abuse America, Kappa Delta is able to ensure that children across the nation are getting the help they need to have a bright, colorful childhood.

There’s nothing that destroys a child’s confidence like abuse, and Kappa Delta wants to do the most it can to prevent this.

Kappa Delta encourages its members to inspire action by getting involved in the community. We do this by hosting several events not only in our community but also on ULM’s campus.

While Covid has impacted many of the projects Kappa Delta plans annually, the Shamrock Run will continue this year in a virtual format. Runners can submit their race times between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. on March 13th, 2021. Registration cost will be $25 until March 1st. On March 1st registration cost will go up $30.

To Sign up, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/LA/Monroe/ KappaDeltas5kShamrock2021.

Eighty percent of all the money raised will go directly to the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home and the other twenty percent will go to Kappa Delta’s national philanthropy, Prevent Child Abuse America. ULM’s chapter of Kappa Delta began giving back and working hands on with the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home in 2016. Since then, Kappa Delta has helped host a family fun day, traveled to King’s Camp, and held many other events for the kids.

We believe that it is important to help the community and see the change locally as well as nationally.

Kappa Delta invites you to come join the fight against child abuse by sponsoring, donating, or running in our annual Virtual KD 5k. You can help us make a difference! If you or anyone you know would be interested in sponsoring or donating, please contact Charley Cuti at kddzshamrock2021@gmail.com.

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Parade in the Park

Krewe de Riviere Hosts Safe and Socially Distanced Event

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HIS YEAR’S MARDI GRAS CELEBRATIONS WILL LOOK a little different due to the required social distancing but that isn’t stopping the Krewe de Riviere from still recognizing and safely celebrating everyone’s favorite Louisiana holiday. The Twin Cities’ newest krewe is hosting, “Parade in the Park” at Kiroli Park on Saturday, February 13th. This socially distanced event will take place outdoors throughout the day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. They will have floats on display throughout the park so attendees can see them and still experiencing some of the joy from the carnival season. This year’s theme is “Peace, Love and Mardi Gras,” which is fitting for this time.

“We are excited to still be able to have some sort of celebration and experience some joy,” said Judy Babb, founder of Krewe de Riverie. “We are also excited to be able to support some local food vendors who have been out of work in the last year. Our krewe is truly about community and this is just another way we are giving back to our community!”

In addition to the floats, there will be Mardi Gras Indians, also known as the Tribe Called Gumbolia from New Orleans. You can view their beautifully handmade suits adorned with feathers and jewels as well as enjoy their music. The 318 Swampers, a group of local men, will also be on hand performing some of their choreographed dances, as well as the Louisiana Luna Chicks, a group of local women. Local bands will be playing including the Josh Madden Band, Four on the Floor, Dead

Reckoning and the Josh Love Band. Local bakeries will be on hand to take part in a King Cake competition, where one will be crowned the best in the Twin Cities. Their tasty treats will also be available for purchase.

You can also take part in the Pet Costume Contest, which will start at 11 a.m. In addition to local food vendors, The Krewe de Riverie will also be selling gumbo. Kiroli Park will be open on this day just like any other Saturday so visitors can also enjoy the playground equipment, nature trails, dog park and more. Admission is $2 per person and the money does go to the City of West Monroe, who maintains the park. The krewe is doing their best to host a fun and safe Mardi Gras event and asks the community to please be responsible when attending the celebration. If you have any COVID symptoms or have for 10 days prior to the event, please do no attend. Masks will be encouraged and social distancing will be enforced.

Krewe de Riverie is grateful to sponsors for helping host this event so they didn’t have to cancel Mardi Gras all together. Sponsors include Discover Monroe West Monroe, Music City Studios, Choice Brands, Century Next Bank, JTB Rentals, Kelsey Klean, Stephens Media Group, Vantage Health Plan, Sir Speedy, Comfort Suites, KTVE/KARD and BayouLife Magazine. Be sure to follow Krewe de Riverie’s Facebook page to keep with any announcements. You can also learn more about the krewe by checking out their website - www.krewederiviere.com.

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Talking to Teens about Love

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BY THE CHILDREN’S COALITION FOR NORTHEAST LOUISIANA

s parents, you we must make require their parents to be open-minded. This efforts to learn about the changes way it helps them to listen more willingly to their that occur during puberty. We parents’ concerns and creates an emotionally are familiar with the physical safe space for discussion, sharing and problem changes but not too familiar solving. Communication revolves around about the very crucial social and emotional choice of words, tone of voice, body language, changes. You can learn how to understand your listening to understand, respect for each other, teen’s feelings and emotions. As a willingness to apologize, and a result of significant changes setting aside biases. Not all happening in the brain of your parents feel confident to bring teen, their experiences heightened up the topic of love and romantic emotions, seeks acceptance relationships with their children. and belonging among friends, Even so, it’s best to make the searches for new experiences effort, else children may be and explores their individuality influenced by the media and the through their thoughts and ideas. opinions of their peers. It’s easier The drive to discover self and to to talk about these sensitive create a unique identity, becomes topics in a general context. There an important preoccupation for are enough stories available teens. Childhood dependence on in the media and in real life.

LAWRENCIA JENKINS parents soon give way to a search Use them to open discussions, for freedom and independence ask your teen for opinions, during the teen years. While you need to take thoughts and ideas about a story. Encourage a step back, you must continue to build your open debates and avoid the arguments. The relationship with your teen and strengthen the exchange of ideas on love and relationships bond you both share. offer teens many perspectives. They can use

Uncomfortable as you may be about love these perspectives to make important decisions and relationships, you must make the effort to for themselves. Parents must therefore facilitate step out of your comfort zone as a parent. Teens open conversations, reserve judgements and be 104 FEBRUARY 2021 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

able to express their views without imposing them, as well as listen intently to their teen’s views.

Lawrencia Jenkins is a Provisionally Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor, EMDR trained therapist, and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor-Candidate. She is a Doctoral Candidate at The University of Louisiana at Monroe in the Marriage and Family Therapy & Counseling Department. She is also a clinician at Finding Solace in West Monroe, LA. Lawrencia works with individuals, couples, families, and children.

Q: Is there a good way to start a conversation with my child about their love life?

A: Conversations and inquiries about your child’s love life can be an uncomfortable feeling for them. Take time every day to have a conversation with your child. Communication should be genuine and free flowing. The ability to communicate effectively with your child on a daily basis can influence how willing they can be to open up about their love life. A good way to start a conversation about their love life would be to ask nonjudgmental questions that require real answers. You can provide your child with the opportunity to open up, without feeling the

need to become offended or defensive. Also, remember to stay available.

Most children do not have a scheduled time to talk about things. Children often talk when something is pressuring them, and particularly if you’ve proven yourself to be a good listener.

Q: What is the most important thing parents and youth can do to deal with the ups and downs of teenage love?

A: The roller-coaster of love can be a ride to remember. Losing love can be painful for anyone. If it’s your first real love and the relationship ends before you want it to, feelings of loss can seem overwhelming. The most important thing that parents and youth can do to deal with the ups and down of teenage love is to be open with one another about their experiences and feelings. This can allow your child to feel supported and even have something to relate to. I believe that support and compassion are the two things that parents can look to provide to their children. Acknowledge their feelings and emotions – try to avoid making them feel guilty for their decisions and the outcome of their decisions. For the youth, utilize this part of your life to discover who you are, what you value, what you want out of life, and the qualities that you would like for your partner to embody.

“If it’s your first real love and the relationship ends before you want it to, feelings of loss can seem overwhelming.”

Q: What are some factors that contribute to ups and downs in love for teens?

A: There are many factors that contribute to ups and downs in love teens. Environmental factors, social factors, family factors, and individual factors can play a vital role in how your teen maneuvers through the ups and downs of love. Due the growing state of our society, teens are often exposed to “life” quicker than what their parents might imagine. From social media to peer influences, teens often gather their idea of love from various platforms.

friends and family members to lean on. If your child’s ride of the rollercoaster of love becomes overwhelming, encourage them find someone relatable to talk to. Journaling is also a good coping skill. Your children can create an outlet for themselves by writing down their thoughts, reactions and emotions. Last but not least, encourage your child to stay active as a way to stay uplifted during a troubled time.

RESOURCES Child Mind Institute Child Mind Institute (https://childmind.org) is a free website dedicated to transforming the lives of children and families. They work to provide the ability to support children when they need it the most. There is information provided for parents, children, and educators to help improve the lives of children and families.

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

Q: Is there something that my child can do now to begin preparing for these times in their life?

A: The idea of love can vary from person-to-person. The crazy thing about love is that it is unpredictable. Although things may be unpredictable, there are ways to prepare your child. For starters, it would be a good idea to spend time talking to your children about the dynamics of love and relationships. I think it is important to normalize the ups and down of love. Look at this as an opportunity to open up to your children about your experiences. This could be a way to educate and uplift your children as they maneuver through this time in their lives. As your child is maneuvering through this period of their life, it is important to discuss the components of a healthy relationship. What does a healthy relationship consist of – attraction, closeness, commitment, respect, etc.? Your children should be able to notice the red flags and be able to speak up when things are not going as they expected. Before your child can fully prepare for these times, I believe that there must be a journey of self-discovery that allows the child to embrace and love themselves, before they can put their energy and love into other individuals and spaces.

Q: Is there a good coping skill to deal with the ups and downs of love?

A: When a relationship ends, your children really need support. Most children are not emotionally prepared to cope with the ups and downs of love. Identifying positive support systems and self-reflection are good coping skills to deals with these times It is helpful to have trustworthy WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2021 105

City of West Monroe Launches Community Pride Campaign

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HE CITY OF WEST MONROE AND WEST MONROE West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce are proud to launch a new community pride campaign known as “Take West Monroe to the Next Level.”

Representatives from the City and Chamber of Commerce held a press conference on January 19th on the steps of City Hall to announce the new campaign in front of local business owners and civic leaders.

“Take West Monroe to the Next Level” is a community campaign to encourage business owners, residents, nonprofit organizations and others to take greater pride in West Monroe, particularly in the community’s appearance. West Monroe Mayor Staci Mitchell said the campaign is more than just about picking up litter. The campaign, she said, encourages people to look at all aspects of our community – homes, storefronts, neighborhoods, waterways, public places, etc.

The campaign also encourages people to become actively involved in their community.

The public will have the opportunity to become more involved as the City of West Monroe hosts public visioning sessions in February to kick off a citywide master planning process. Community members will be invited to attend the public sessions and offer their input on key issues such as housing, economic development and parks and recreation. Specific dates and times for those sessions will be announced soon by the City of West Monroe.

“You have the City of West Monroe’s commitment and my commitment to continue working for the future of West Monroe and our entire community,” said Mayor Mitchell. “We realize there are things that need correcting and things that need to be worked on by City staff. However, the City cannot do it alone. It takes all of us.”

Leaders said little improvements go a long way to making a big difference in the community.

“These enhancements make it easier to recruit businesses, build quality of life and promote a welcoming retail experience,” said Lila Strode, president of the West Monroe West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce.

Initial efforts will focus on the Cypress Street corridor from Stella/Mill to the N. 7th Street intersection. A workday will be held on Friday, Jan. 22nd beginning at 1 p.m. Volunteers are encouraged to join city crews as they enhance the Cypress Street corridor. Supplies will be provided.

In an effort to encourage businesses along this corridor to enhance their appearance, Keep West Monroe Beautiful is offering two grants of $250 each to be used toward exterior improvements such as paint, landscaping, signage, etc. To apply for one of these grants, please contact Ouachita Green at (318) 355-5622 or info@ouachitagreen.org Those interested in learning more about the campaign can contact the City of West Monroe at (318) 396-2600 or mayorsoffice@westmonroela. gov or the WMWO Chamber of Commerce at (318) 3251961 or lstrode@westmonroechamber.org.

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House Within A Hospital

Ronald McDonald House to Partner with St. Francis

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T. FRANCIS MEDICAL CENTER AND RONALD McDonald House Charities Northeast Louisiana announced earlier today their “House Within A Hospital” partnership to keep children and families close during their stay in the hospital. This will be the first and only one in Louisiana.

Located on the 4th floor of St. Francis Medical Center’s Labor & Delivery and NICU departments, the Ronald McDonald House will be a 4,740 square foot “house within a hospital” space designed to provide a place of rest and relaxation to families of children age 21 and under who are receiving medical treatment.

“St. Francis Medical Center’s mission is to care for those most in need and like the Ronald McDonald House, we recognize that parents dealing with medical crises involving children are frightening, emotional and can have a tremendous impact on the entire family.

This partnership will allow us to bring a sense of home to the families of our infants, premature babies, and children and help to ease some of their burdens,” said Kristin Wolkart, President of St. Francis Medical Center.

The House will be equipped with six bedrooms with private ensuite bathrooms, laundry room, fully stocked kitchen, dining area with tables and an island, living room with play area and computer stations with internet access.

It will also include a quiet room just down the hall from the House where families can go to have a moment of prayer and meditation. Just as the house does today, daytime visitors as well as overnight guests will have access to the house and amenities and at no cost to families.

Keeping families close with sick children close to each other and the care and resources they need has been the mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities Northeast Louisiana since 1985 when it first opened its doors to the community. The free-standing home currently located on South Third Street in Monroe has been a home away-from-home to thousands of families since that time. Over the years the building has aged and needs many repairs and remodeling to meet the needs of today’s families.

“As Helen Keller once said, ‘Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much’ and this partnership between St. Francis and Ronald McDonald House will do so much to benefit the families in need of our services,” said Georgia Street, Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northeast Louisiana.

Having this wonderful gem of a resource in the community available to families is great but we recognize that being off-site from where your child is being cared for is not ideal and puts additional stress on the parents both emotionally and financially. This “house within a hospital” concept will allow families to face the weight of illness together and allow their child to get the best care without worrying about distance.

Plans are underway with the goal of beginning construction early fall 2021.

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SNOW IS A RARE SIGHT IN NORTHEAST LOUISIANA, AND ON JANUARY 11TH, A SNOW DAY WAS HAD BY ALL. WE REACHED OUT TO OUR FACEBOOK FOLLOWERS TO SHARE IMAGES FROM THEIR DAY OF MAKING MEMORIES. Here are a few of our favorite submissions.

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1. Evy and Jey Strickland 2. photo by Elizabeth Price Butler 3. Molly and Madelyn Flemister with Violet and Clare Voorhees 4. Abram and Nora Bland 5. Hadley, Carter, Meghan, Leighton and Brice Jones 6. Jack Brandin 7. Madeline Nyquist 8. Arthur Nyquist 9. Samuel, Ava and Russell Clark 10. Newk’s Ruston 11. Michelle Bernard 12. Rosemary Yeldell 13. Neha Manning 14. Layton Wisenor 15. Evan Harper 16. photo by Donna Taylor Orr 17. Wilder, William and Fable McKinnie 18. Amy Curtis 19. Anya Allen 20. Courtney, Matt and Riley Grace Overturf 21. Emerson and Jude Hall 22. The American Legion Hall 23. Jaxon Brent 24. Cully Hubenthal 25. James and Wray Mailhes 26. Cruse and Kate Flowers 27. Gabriel Pritchard 28. Emory Blount 29. Start, LA by Nikki Johnson 30. Katelyn Tolbert and Bradley McAllister 31. Hunter, Allie and Colton 32. Kennedy and Paige Shedden 33. Mary Loftin and Carlyle Shelton 34. Sara and Rob Brewer’s Mardi Gras Snowman

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HEMLINE This easy-to-wear blouse is handcrafted from a delicate floral chiffon with a black backdrop and metallic accents. It is paired with the matching chiffon skirt. Accessorize with pink metallic croc print booties, a dusty pink hat and a foldover beaded clutch for a date night ready look.

RED HAUTE

From flirty dresses to one-shoulder tops, these looks are perfect for Valentine’s Day and beyond. Hats off to our local boutiques for providing these red haute looks.

Photography by Kelly Moore Clark Hair and makeup by Meka Reliford Model Mallory Lynn

We adore this chic red hat from Lack of Color paired with a simple cream dress. Add these croco-embossed mules with a striking silhouette and buckle closure to bring your look to the next level.

SADIE C’S

DUSTY & CO Show your love with this super cute black and red sweater paired with super soft and form-fitting Judy Blue jeans. Accessorize with a bold red hat for a completed look.

This one-shoulder top features a leopard pattern with a tie waist.

It is paired with highrise skinny jeans with a distressed hem, a double G-belt, snake print bag and beige hat with chain accent. Complete the look with multi-buckle snake print booties.

BLUE LINE BOUTIQUE

HERRINGSTONE’S This cream sweater with cutout shoulder is paired with a pink leather skinny cut pant with front slits. Accessorize with caged sandals with stud embellishments, a pearl purse, and Kendra Scott jewelry. Top the look with a chic mauve hat.

This fun and flirty dress features a ruffled deep v-neckline and flouncy skirt.

Pair it with a Lack of Color beige hat and gold hoop drop earrings for a look that transitions from day to night.

SADIE C’S

IRISH POTATOES LSU AG CENTER

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ebruary is about groundhogs, Valentines, and African American history. It’s also about potatoes!

Convention says potatoes should be planted on Valentine’s Day. Mother Nature doesn’t always agree. In fact, don’t worry if potatoes aren’t planted until early March. You have plenty of time.

Potatoes are quite possibly the most perfect food. They are gluten-free and a healthy source of carbohydrates (starch).

Culinarily, they are among the most versatile of crops. And, whether you like them baked, boiled, mashed, fried, or any other way, Irish potatoes are an easy and rewarding crop for home vegetable gardens.

Any of our local hardware/feed stores will carry seed potatoes, which are whole potatoes used specifically for growing new plants which, in turn, produce that season’s crop of tubers. Botanically, a tuber is an underground stem modified for starch storage. New, above-ground branches sprout from the “eyes.” As the above-ground leaves and stems make sugars via photosynthesis, the plant will store excess sugars as starch in new tubers below ground. Thus, although technically not roots, white potatoes are classified as a “root crop.”

The LSU Ag Center recommends ‘Red La Soda,’ ‘Norland,’ ‘La Rouge,’ and ‘Red Pontiac’ as good, red-skinned varieties, and ‘La Chipper,’ ‘Norchip,’ ‘Atlantic,’ ‘Kennebec,’ ‘La Belle,’ and ‘Yukon Gold’ as good, white-skinned varieties for Louisiana home gardens. Heirloom potato varieties are also available to home gardeners from a variety of sources.

Cut larger “seed” potatoes into smaller pieces, about 2 ounces each, with each piece containing one or two eyes. Some sources recommend curing the pieces, so the cut ends dry for a few days before planting.

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this is not necessary if your soil has good drainage. Plant Irish potatoes in rows that are spaced four to six feet apart in soil that is acidic and friable (easily dug). Each section of seed potato should be planted three to four inches deep at twelve-inch intervals. As the vines start to sprawl, hill soil up around them periodically to create more underground space for tuber formation and to completely cover tubers that have already been formed.

Tubers are forming underground when above-ground stems flower. After 60 to 70 days, try sneaking a few “new” potatoes from under the plants. Don’t be greedy; every little new potato could grow into a large keeper later in the season. Dig the crop when plants start to yellow and die off. Start about one foot on either side of the plants and work inward toward the center of the row. Tubers injured during digging should be used immediately.

Otherwise, gently brush away any loose soil and store them at 55° F in a humid area. Save the smaller tubers from the spring crop a fall crop planted in late summer when seed potatoes aren’t in stores.

Potato Plants at the zoo

Because we focus on the tubers, we forget that potato plants flower and set seeds, especially open pollinated varieties.

Notice how potato flowers closely resemble those of tomato and pepper, and how potato fruits resemble small tomatoes. They’re all in the nightshade family (Solanaceae). Seeds represent new genetic combinations. So, if you’re feeling adventurous, try saving potato seeds this year and see what they produce next year!

Irish potatoes, staples of human diets the world over, are not Irish. The potato’s center of diversity is in South America where they have been grown for millennia. Their familiar moniker is a tribute to Ireland where, during the 1840s, a soil organism (Phytophthora infestans) devastated potato crops not only in Ireland but in other parts of western Europe as well. The effects of potato blight were much less severe in the United States. At the time, many growers in the U.S. thought that, because white potatoes had been cultivated in North America for only a century or so, the few varieties available then had been “degenerated,” thus leaving crops vulnerable to diseases or pests. With potatoes being

Red LaSoda

of the ‘Carter’ potato in the early 1860s. It apparently had yellow flesh that turned white when cooked. ‘Shaker Rupert’ is a mistranslation in the annotated version of Martha’s diary; there is no such-named potato in the period literature. There was, however, a variety named ‘Shaker Russet,’ which is no doubt what Martha grew. Its origin is not immediately clear. But, it was the subject of trial crops as early as 1862, when Henry S. Noyes of Evanston, Illinois, reported harvesting fiftyfive bushels from one bushel of seed potatoes. ‘Shaker Russet’ is also mentioned in an 1866 journal as producing “large tubers fit for eating early in the season.”

How wonderful would it be to grow these same varieties and taste what Martha Turnbull tasted! Unfortunately, these 19th Century potato varieties are extinct. But, plenty of great varieties are available for use in Louisiana home gardens. Give Irish potatoes a try in your garden this season!

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

essentially a clonal crop, there is some genetic basis for this line of thought. Expeditions to South America were made to obtain new stock to cross with existing North American varieties for improved disease resistance. These breeding trials resulted in an explosion of new potato varieties.

Closer to home, thanks to the extensive gardening diary kept by Martha Turnbull during the 19th Century, we know that four varieties of Irish potato were staples at Rosedown Plantation in St. Francisville: 1) ‘Mashannock,’ or ‘Minesota Mashannoc’ [sic], 2) ‘Early Goodrich,’ 3) ‘Jackson White’ and, 4) ‘Shaker Rupert’ [sic]. All four varieties are also mentioned in period agricultural literature. The ‘Mashannock’ potato was the offspring of a popular 19th century potato named ‘Mercer’ after the county in western Pennsylvania. ‘Mercer’ was developed

by John Gilkey who crossed several strains of the ‘Mercer’ and, in 1813, named one of the stable varieties ‘Neshannock’ after a tributary of the Shenango River. Political boundaries in western Pennsylvania have changed since then, and a portion of what is now Beaver County is the birthplace of Gilkey’s ‘Neshannock’ potato, which was sometimes spelled ‘Mashannock.’ Another theory in an article in the New England Farmer and Horticultural Journal, dated December 10th, 1834, indicates that the ‘Mashannock’ potato originated as ‘Mercer’ seedlings in 1820 in Columbiana County, Ohio. This scenario is possible because Columbiana County, Ohio borders both Lawrence and Beaver Counties, Pennsylvania. As Lawrence County is bordered on the north by Mercer County, seeds could have easily been obtained from surrounding gardening acquaintances, possibly from John Gilkey himself. Whether it originated in eastern Ohio or western Pennsylvania, ‘Neshannock’ and ‘Mashannock’ are the same potato.

‘Early Goodrich,’ first mentioned in Martha’s garden diary on February 12th, 1869, was a potato developed by an Episcopalian minister named Chauncey E. Goodrich in Utica, New York, from seeds of a variety called ‘Cusco,’ also a product of Rev. Goodrich’s potato gardens. ‘Cusco’ was likely named after the city in southern Peru considered to be the historic capital of the Inca Empire. As such, it was a major agricultural center where thousands of potato varieties were developed, grown, and stored. ‘Jackson White’ and ‘Shaker Rupert’ [sic] potatoes are first mentioned in Martha’s diary on January 25th, 1872. ‘Jackson White’ originated in Maine as a seedling WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2021 117

jiu jitsu

The increasingly popular sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has come to Northeast Louisiana. Kron Gracie Jiu Jitsu West Monroe & Vital Fitness are enthusiastic about training people of all ages.

Photographer Kelly Moore Clark Article by Nils Borquist

Besides being well-known celebrities, what surprising connection links comedian and podcaster Joe Rogan, actors Ed O’Neill, Ashton Kutcher, Keanu Reeves, and Mel Gibson, British director Guy Ritchie, surfer Kelly Slater, rapper Wiz Khalifa, singer Demi Lovato, the late chef and writer Anthony Bourdain, as well as martial arts and meme superstar Chuck Norris? Each of them practice or practiced the increasingly popular sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ).

From its beginnings and formation decades ago in Brazil as molded by the Gracie family, BJJ, after being introduced to Americans through the earliest UFC competitions 25 years ago, has steadily grown in popularity. Today, various schools function in essentially every major city in this country, and for those of us who live in the Monroe-West Monroe region, we are fortunate to have access to a tremendous school, Kron Gracie Jiu Jitsu West Monroe & Vital Fitness, with knowledgeable and dedicated teachers enthusiastic about training people of all ages in the art of BJJ.

Located at 1412 Natchitoches Street in West Monroe, the school delivers a well-rounded training regimen to all members. Combining BJJ with weight training, Ginastica, plyometrics, flexibility enhancement, and diet and nutrition advice, the gym provides taxing workouts that are extraordinarily different than those offered by most other facilities available. Owners and operators Jonathan

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Brantley and Kylie Berry, who purchased the gym just over a year ago, have crafted workouts that promise to force participants to give maximum effort, and while the physical transformations that definitely occur for those who consistently attend and work are undeniable, the gains one can expect exceed the strength and stamina realms by also sharpening mental acuity, creating new friendships, and, perhaps most of all, heightening self-confidence beyond any level one has previously known.

Brantley’s background in martial arts began when he was 22 and, with no prior training, he started taking BJJ. He was immediately taken in with the physicality, competitiveness, and beauty of the art. Along with desiring to get better at Jiu-Jitsu, Brantley also realized that the integral components of diet, training, and focus, in essence an entire lifestyle overhaul, would be needed to reach his long-term goals. He relished the changes, and today, 15 years later and having earned his black belt, he passes along that he feels so lucky to have been introduced to BJJ at that point in his life. Berry’s life as an athlete has taken her from playing what she calls “normal sports” in high school, softball and tennis, in Franklin Parish to earning her purple belt in BJJ as well as becoming a certified trainer of Ginastica, an art that blends aspects of stretching, Hatha yoga, and JiuJitsu. Both owners recognize how instrumental the training

Owners and operators Jonathan Brantley and Kylie Berry, who purchased the gym just over a year ago, have crafted workouts that promise to force participants to give maximum effort.

has been in transforming their lives, and their desire to pass along, to teach, current members and those wishing to become members can be easily seen by watching them work with young children, teenagers, and adults alike.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, while complex physically, mentally, and strategically in practice, can be easily defined as a martial art reliant on grappling skills, one where size and strength become secondary to leverage and dexterity.

Certainly, in terms of real world self-defense skills, it may possibly be unparalleled in terms of usefulness. Beyond that, for those looking for training that surpasses running miles or lifting weights, BJJ provides an intense full-body workout.

Constant tension combined with flexibility and a need to be consistently thinking can exhaust even the most ardently devout athlete in minutes. Gracie West Monroe/Vital Fitness (GWMVF) offers a high number of sessions every week, and the trainers (Brantley, Berry, Chris Hill, Dillon Fraley, and Jesse Butler) devote a tremendous amount

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of time and energy for their students. Additionally, for many members of the club at the adult and teen levels, supplemental workouts utilizing weights, kettlebells, ropes, plyometrics, and sled-pulling, along with stretching, are also an integral part of the membership.

The physical changes are evident for those who stay consistent with their training, and Brantley and Berry both pointed out that they see several members go from completely out of shape to possessing leaner bodies, increased energy, a passion for the sport, and mental and emotional benefits to boot.

While many outsiders would likely assume that a great many members come from the adult ranks, they may be surprised to know that kids, both teenagers and children even as young as four years old, comprise the majority of the students. Increasingly, too, young girls and adult women pursue Jiu-Jitsu skills. All of the members, young and old, male and female, have varied reasons for wanting to be involved, but three huge benefits jump out. First, the sport prepares people for the undesired and rare situation of finding themselves in a dangerous physical situation requiring fighting back. In essence, the high-level real world self-defense application separates BJJ from many other martial arts.

Berry pointed out that she strongly believes that girls and women should definitely consider joining and learning self-defense as BJJ’s core principle states that an overpowering attacker, when taken to the ground, which is where most physical confrontations end up, can be overwhelmed by smaller and lighter individuals.

A second benefit is BJJ training can enhance skills for those in other sports. As many of the students are of high school age and younger, and many of those play other sports, their hand-eye coordination, strength, flexibility, power, speed, and focus grows and can be tapped into for the other endeavors. Additionally, and Brantley attests to this bonus, for those out of high school sports but who hunt or engage in other sports or even undertake outdoor tasks such as mowing enormous lawns, the aid provided by BJJ should not be underestimated. In fact, Joe Rogan may be one of the most prominent figures to endorse BJJ for its positive effect on overall conditioning for bow hunting and hiking in the wilderness.

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Gracie West Monroe/ Vital Fitness (GWMVF) offers a high number of sessions every week.

Additionally, for many members of the club at the adult and teen levels, supplemental workouts utilizing weights, kettlebells, ropes, plyometrics, and sled-pulling, along with stretching, are also an integral part of the membership.

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hird, and perhaps most importantly for all students and practitioners alike, one’s selfconfidence and self-control can be expected to be improved. Confidence building seems an integral piece of the gym’s core concepts.

In fact, Brantley and Berry speak of that particular aspect with great pride and joy, and their own selfconfidence and self-assuredness, traits they claim have been positively impacted by their own lives in BJJ, exudes from them. When students see that their hard work, practice, and consistency results in obvious advancement, and when understanding that such gains come as an outcome of their individual efforts, they invariably gain poise.

One of the other most important consequences I’ve personally noticed in my interactions with Brantley, Berry, and Fraley in particular is kindness. One cannot help but notice that they incessantly smile, even after a taxing morning BJJ session with several members, and that happiness is contagious. Although it may seem odd when considering that the result of martial arts would be one of more kindness, it actually should not be surprising.

With those benefits of self-confidence and an increased skill set, recognizing that one can defend him or herself in many situations can relieve one of a certain amount of stress. Being more relaxed, more patient, calmer, and happier understandably then follow. When combining all of those elements, how one treats others inevitably softens, and kindness and understanding ensue. As a parent with a child who is a student, I can undeniably admit that my own daughter sees and feels the changes, and her excitement for her classes can barely be contained. It is quite a humbling sight to behold.

Of course, in 2020 and moving forward into the coming year, one of most pertinent and reasonable concerns for parents wishing to register their children as students, or even those adults who want to join themselves, is the coronavirus. With the rampant nature with which the virus has spread, prevention becomes a viable measure for students and teachers both. On the student side, some have quit simply to avoid coming into potential contact with anyone contaminated or potential surfaces that have been compromised.

Fortunately, Brantley and Berry reacted in a proactive fashion very early on in the year. While promoting physical fitness in conjunction with a consistent vitamin and mineral regimen (Vitamin C, zinc, and magnesium in particular), in addition to utilizing hospital grade disinfectant on the mats between every class along with sanitizer stations for the students, they’ve held Covid at bay. Certainly, it is impossible to entirely keep it away as the owners cannot possibly know where every single member is at all times. However, with only a couple of cases occurring over the year, they’ve done an overwhelmingly tremendous job, especially when one considers the close contact required of participants. The safety of their students,

both regarding Covid as well as overall physical well-being, remains priority one for the teachers and owners.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is not easy. It is difficult, takes patience and time, and it requires one to adapt an overall healthier lifestyle in order to grow. However, it is precisely these aspects that make it so productive for people. Brantley bluntly stated that doing something hard takes dedication, but the results will be greater mental health, emotional health, physical health, and creates a bond between students and teachers that can last years, if not forever. People become kinder, gain self-confidence, and work to achieve goals. That is why BJJ is special. In fact, former longtime Navy SEAL commander and current writer, podcaster, and business consultant Jocko Willink relayed a story wherein his son asked him, after watching the movie The Incredibles, if there was such a thing as a real superpower. He thought for a moment, and replied, “Jiu-Jitsu.” With the humility that comes with it, and the prowess, the constant work, the getting beaten over and again, the getting back up and trying, the perpetual learning, and the realization that success and failure are fleeting, only lasting until the next contest, a student is tapping into a primal skill of sorts, one that almost perfectly blends physical, mental, and emotional output at a high level. Jonathan Brantley and Kylie Berry know this. The trainers and students at their gym know it, too. In fact, it appears that anyone who spends time training in BJJ knows and understands it. They all relish the opportunity to learn, to get better in all three components, not necessarily to win a fight, but instead to be the best person they can possibly be for themselves and for those around them. BJJ is an art, a wide-ranging set of skills that is difficult or even impossible to master, but one cannot grow until they get on the mat. Brantley, Berry, and their team at Kron Gracie Jiu Jitsu West Monroe & Vital Fitness can help you, and they want to help you, get to that point and beyond. When weight lifting and jogging cease to provide you an exhilarating adventure or a sense of achieving personal growth, immediately go and visit Brantley and Berry. Not only will you not be disappointed, you will have given yourself the gift of testing your own limits, and you will love it.

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Fishing With Kenny Cold Water Power Fishing article by K E N N Y C OV I NGT ON

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ack in the 1980’s when I first started competing in bass tournaments, many of the older fishermen believed once the water temperatures sank below 50 degrees, catching bass was almost an impossible task. I can remember sitting in the tackle stores listening to my father and his friends talk about the difficulty of catching bass in not just frigid waters but off colored or even cold muddy water. “Those fish just don’t bite!” I can still hear those words ringing in my ears. Oh, how wrong they were.

Fast forward forty years and I now can say I can and have caught fish in every cold-water situation you can think of. Cold and clear? Yes. Cold and muddy? Yes. I have learned to put my faith in a few lures and use them in high percentage areas. I may not catch numbers of fish using these techniques but they are great for catching quality fish. Over the years I have developed a quality over quantity mentality that seems to fit this style of fishing.

For the sake of this article, I will refer to the aforementioned 50-degree water temperature and lower as cold water. To being with, always remember, in order to survive, fish have to eat, regardless if it is spring, summer, fall or in this case, winter. Years ago, it was held in high belief the only way to catch cold water winter bass was to use more vertical presentations such as a grub, a bucktail or a jig in deep water.

While those lures and techniques proved successful, I have found a few other horizontal presentations and lures that produce just as well and opens up the complete water column, from shallow to deep.

Another thing I would like to point out is all of the lures I am going to talk about will be fished in water depths less than six foot. I know that seems odd when fishing cold frigid 122 FEBRUARY 2021 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

water but there is always a population of fish that remain shallow year-round and I have found that even in the worse conditions, they can be easier to catch. Shallow fish are usually the ones who are most actively feeding, so their aggressiveness can be used against them.

First let’s talk about where to look for the fish. Rocky banks, hard bottom areas, deeper grass flats, stump fields, cypress trees and docks are all the main areas I focus on regardless of where I am fishing. All of these types of cover or bottom contours will attract fish in the winter time. If they have a deeper water access nearby, that makes them even better. Please, don’t let the phrase “deeper water access” fool you. To a fish that spends most of his time in two foot of water or less, five foot of water is considered deeper water.

While my choice of lures this time of year is pretty simple. I will start the day with these lures rigged up on the deck of my boat and at the end of the day the same ones will still be tied on. I seldom switch colors unless water clarity dictates such a change. I will use a ½ ounce Rat L Trap style of lure, a ½ or ¾ ounce single bladed spinnerbait, a ¼ ounce swim jig, and a flat sided crankbait. My follow up bait is always a ½ black/blue jig and/or a Carolina rig.

With these six baits I can win a tournament on any body of water I am fishing.

The idea behind my lure choices is to cover enough water and make enough casts to search for and catch whatever active fish a body of water may have to offer. I will slow down with a jig or a Carolina rig if I believe a particular area is holding a number of catchable bass.

Even in the winter I have always believed if I can present my lures to more fish, even inactive ones, the better my chances of catching them.

My rattle bait is usually a Strike King Red

Eye Shad. I like a crawfish or red colored one most of the time but I have seen times when a shad pattern works betters. Your retrieve speed can be critical so always be aware of that. My spinnerbait is usually a ½ ounce homemade version with a single #5 Colorado blade, I prefer the ¾ version on wind blow days. I don’t go too crazy with colors as I usually go with Chartreuse/white with a white trailer behind it. The key with the spinnerbait is to retrieve it just fast enough to feel the blade thump.

The swim jig is something I discovered by accident and usually works best in areas where grass or dead lily pad fields are still present. I like a ¼ ounce shad pattern regardless of water clarity and I use a boot tail style swim bait, such as a Reaction Innovations Skinny Dipper, as my trailer. This is a finesse slow rolling technique and it will catch giants! I use 30 lb. braided line due to the heavy cover and grass.

When choosing a flat sided crankbait the DT6 by Rapala would be a solid choice. I like crawfish and shad patterns and will usually have one of each tied on. The tight wiggle of the flat sided crankbait is something that works extremely well in colder water but I also believe the lack of a rattle chamber in these lures is also a key element to their success.

My choice of line for this technique is 12 lb. monofilament. This size line allows the lure to work better and handles better in colder weather.

It is very important this time of year to pay close attention to where you are getting your strikes. Were the fish off of the bank, half way back to the boat on your retrieve? Were they on the sunny side of the dock suspended? Maybe the fish hit when you pulled your lure free from a brush pile or grass clump? Each fish should give you a clue as to how to catch the next one; this is especially true when targeting bigger bass.

Each year I spend a lot of time tweaking my techniques or trying to learn new ways to catch bass. In order to stay competitive in tournament competitions or to just feel like I have a chance to catch fish on the days I spend on the water, I have to keep an open mind as to what will be the best way to be successful.

That being said I have found, at least for me, it is best to go with what you know and put the percentages in your favor. Fishing cold water with power does that for me!

Well, it looks like we have run out of time and space for another month. I sure hope we were able to share some information that will help you put a few more fish in your boat on your next trip to the lake. Please take extra precautions while out on the water this time of year as winter time fishing, with cold water and frigid temperatures, can be dangerous.

Take care and catch one for me and I will see you next month!

G A L L E R Y of H O M E S 1301 Forsythe Avenue, Monroe

223 S Grand St. Suite 802, Monroe

3908 Deborah Drive, Monroe

Monroe’s Iconic English Tudor Style home boasts stunning architectural details and exceptional amenities! This home features 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths with original wood floors, refurbished steel windows, quartzite, marble and granite countertops throughout, and a chef’s dream kitchen. Also includes a breakfast room, formal dining room, den & living room. Backyard features Bevelo lighting, outdoor kitchen patio with fireplace, pool, hot tub and outside 1/2 bath. Prequal buyers. MLS 194161. Call Caroline Scott 318-366-1429 or Cara Sampongaro 318-381-0385

Exquisite, one-of-a-kind condo for sale in downtown Monroe located in Riverscape Condominiums, formally known as The Penn Hotel. If you desire home ownership with minimal upkeep, high-end security and a convenient location, then this place is for you! Unit 802 features wood floors, granite countertops, a spalike master bath, ample storage, open floor plan and gym access.

MLS#195178 Call Barbara Thomas 318-355-5551 or Caroline Scott 318-366-1429, John Rea Realty.

A little piece of heaven on Bayou DeSiard! The property is approximately 2 acres with 185 ft. of water frontage. The multiple large trees make this lot a very private location. This mid-century modern home was built in 1957 but no value was assigned to it by the appraiser. Don’t delay, there are very few bayou lots left. MLS #195806 Call Kathy VanVeckhoven, John Rea Realty, 318-537-3701.

106 Puma Drive, West Monroe

2007 Hick Street, West Monroe

4602 Bon Aire Drive, Monroe

Beautiful house on large lakefront lot. This house has it all! The house sits on 1.27 acres and provides unbelievable scenery. Home includes 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, formal dining room as well as breakfast area and large living room with massive stone fireplace.

Also includes wood detail on ceiling, a sunroom with a unique flare, remodeled kitchen with granite, master suite with large bathroom and closet, great storage. Last but not least, a large backyard overlooking Eagle Lake. Even has a dock perfect for fishing! Don’t miss out on what all this house has to offer! MLS #195846 Call Heather Guillot, Vanguard Realty, 318-855-2925

Beautifully designed custom built home. Not only will you love the location, you will fall in love with the design. The foyer is flanked with an office and dining room. The kitchen has great counter top space, beautiful cabinets and double oven. Floorplan can be a his and hers suite with an adjoining bathroom or with a single master bedroom suite. Spacious bedrooms with large closets. Utility room plus where you can enjoy sewing or working a hobby. Ample windows allow for natural lighting. This house was designed with all stages of life in mind and is handicap accessible! MLS#194620 Call Heather Guillot with Vanguard Realty, 318-855-2925

Come see this BREATHTAKING 4BR/3BA home on beautiful Bayou Desiard convenient to ULM & VCOM campuses. Large home on 2 lots includes a newly renovated kitchen w/ sub-zero refrigerator, wet-bar, and huge island with gas cooktop & 2 ovens. Open floor plan w/ 2 staircases accessing the 2nd floor. Outbuilding w/ electric would make a great shop. Tons of floored attic that could be finished out! Watch the 29 time National Champion ULM Ski team from your 2 piers and boat house! MLS#195249 Call Mark Sisk with RE/MAX Premier Realty (318) 651-8000.

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Bud Light Seltzer Lemonade Marsala Beverage Welcomes Bud Light Seltzer Lemonade

M

ARSALA BEVERAGE IS THRILLED to announce the addition of a new product: Bud Light Seltzer Lemonade.

Packed with lemonade taste, the new variety pack features four new flavors: Original Lemonade, Black Cherry Lemonade, Strawberry Lemonade and Peach Lemonade.

BUD LIGHT SELTZER LEMONADE Bud Light Seltzer Lemonade will be available everywhere in 12-ounce slim can variety 12-packs with the four new flavors.

Bud Light Seltzer Lemonade is brewed with loads of lemonade flavor, cane sugar, natural fruit flavors and comes in at 100 calories with less than 1 gram of sugar and 5% alcohol by volume (ABV).

“Our Seltzer Lemonade marries the bold flavors of lemonade with the refreshing bubbliness of seltzer; this new offering is perfect for both established seltzer fans and those who are looking to give seltzer a try, says Tyler Flemister of Marsala Beverage BUD LIGHT 1982, Anheuser Busch introduced Bud Light nationally. Bud Light, the most popular beer in the country, is a light bodied lager with a fresh, clean and subtle hop aroma.

Its delicate malt sweetness and crisp finish provide the ultimate refreshment. Bud Light is brewed using a blend of premium aroma hops, both American grown and imported, and a combination of barley malts, water and rice. Its superior drinkability and refreshing flavor make it the world’s favorite light beer.

Bud Light contains 4.2 percent alcohol by volume (ABV). Brewing an American Light 124 FEBRUARY 2021 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Lager, like Bud Light, is hard. The style is so clean and clear that any imperfection can come through. That’s why we believe in brewing the highest-quality light beer on Earth using the finest ingredients that come from the Earth. And that’s why we pay special attention to every step throughout the brewing process to ensure the Bud Light in your hands is the best it can be. We believe you, the light beer drinker, deserve the very best with every single sip. We work hard to make sure that’s exactly what you get with every Bud Light.

BUD LIGHT PLATINUM

Bud Light Platinum has reinvented the category of light beer. Within each cobalt blue bottle lies a bold formula that’s triple filtered with a smooth finish to create its stop shelf taste. Its the first of its kind, and the only beer worthy of the name Bud Light Platinum. Bud Light Platinum contains 6.0 percent alcohol by volume (ABV).

CHELADAS

Chelada Clamato: The savory combination of Bud Light and the spicy richness of a Clamato Tomato Cocktail. Best served over ice and garnished with Lime.

CHELADA EXTRA LIME:

Mango Chelada: The savory combination of Bud Light and the sweet richness of a ripe Mango. Best served over ice and garnished with Lime.

BUD LIGHT PEELS SERIES:

Bud Light is expanding the brand’s citrus

portfolio with a refreshed Bud Light Lime and the addition of Bud Light Orange. Both light lagers are brewed with real lime and orange peels, and deliver a clean and crisp taste that highlights natural citrus flavors in every sip.

The colorful new packs for Bud Light Lime and new Bud Light Orange feature bright orange and lime details, with accents of real citrus peels. Together these beers form the ultimate citrus combo for a taste that’s unmistakably summer.

Bud Light Orange is brewed with real orange peels for a “clean and crisp taste that highlights natural citrus flavors,” according to a press release. It has 142 calories—more than Bud Light and Bud Light Lime, for those keeping score at home. Bud Light Platinum contains 4.2 percent alcohol by volume (ABV).

Bud Light Lime is a refreshing twist on America’s favorite light lager. Our new brewing process uses real lime peels to ensure a clean, crisp and refreshing taste with a hint of real lime flavor in every sip. Pick some up and try the summery goodness today! Bud Light Lime contains 4.2 percent alcohol by volume (ABV).

Please find us at www.marsalabeverage.com or follow us on social media: Facebook: Marsala Beverage Twitter: @marsalabeverage1 Instagram: @marsalabeverage

Doc, I Heard a POP….

ACL Tears in Young Athletes

BY ANDREW PATTON, MD

Y

OUNG ATHLETES… I WAS ONE AND AS AN ORTHOPEDIC surgeon specializing in sports medicine, I treat a lot them. With an increase of sports participation in young adults, we have consequently seen an increase in sports injuries in these young athletes.

Of those injuries, there seems to be a greater incidence of ACL tears.

According to recent studies at UCLA Health, about a third of preteen and teen soccer players will sustain an ACL tear and girls are twice as likely to have an ACL injury as boys.

WHAT IS THE ACL?

• ACL stands for ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT

o Anterior means that it attaches in the front part of the knee on the front part of the chin bone

o Cruciate means that it is a crossing-type ligament- it crosses over the knee.

o Ligament is a type of tissue that holds the joint together or connects bone to bone.

• The ACL is one of the major ligaments of the knee and stabilizes the knee during front-to-back motions.

Young adults who participate in high demand sports like soccer, football, and basketball are more likely to injure their ACL. Most commonly, ACL tears are the result of sports that require sudden stops or changes in direction, jumping and landing. Less common, but still possible, an ACL tear is the result of a direct impact to the knee, like a tackle or direct hit. Common symptoms associated with an ACL tear include:

• Sudden knee pain

• A “popping” in the knee at the time of the injury

• Limited knee movement

• A feeling of looseness or instability in the knee

Many young athletes may walk off the field unaware of the injury, only feeling mild weakness in the knee. Parents and coaches need to be on the lookout for knee swelling and dull, aching pain that is exacerbated by twisting motions in sports and noticeable when getting in and out of the car. If pain and swelling are present, it’s probably a good idea to consult with and orthopedic specialist sooner versus later.

Diagnosing an ACL tear will involve your orthopedist ordering an X-ray and completing a physical examination of the knee which will determine whether the ACL is loose or torn. Ligaments or cartilage

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cannot be viewed on an X-ray, so an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) may be ordered. An MRI is the best way to confirm a torn ACL diagnosis and will give the physician a better view of the child’s growth plates and will be a better determinate of whether a surgical or nonsurgical approach is best.

Non-operative and operative options for managing the care and treatment of ACL tears in a young athletes is improving. The most important factor in treatment is to create a team approach to their care including the patient, orthopedist, parent(s) and coach(s). Before beginning any treatment, the patient’s swelling and inflammation must be controlled to ensure the best possible recovery. Although, the patient may not want to move, non-weight bearing motion is key to keeping fluid from accumulating on the knee. Additionally, icing the knee for 15-20 minutes, every one to two hours is highly recommended.

Once swelling has subsided, a treatment plan can begin. Non-surgical treatment options include:

• Modifying sports and physical activity

• Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises

• Use of knee brace.

Young athletes may delay surgery for an ACL tear to allow bones to finish growing or to reduce the risk of damage to the growth platelets.

There are new surgeries that do not disrupt the growth plate and can be performed safely without endangering the young patient’s growth.

Following surgery, the patient will participate in physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises. Although return to sports varies, most young athletes can return to active play in 6-9 months.

With the recognition of the increase in ACL injuries in young athletes, several prevention programs have been developed. These programs include strengthening exercises, proper technique training, balance exercises, recognizing signs of fatigue, and allowing time for recovery in between seasons for year-long athletes. Playing sports is a great way for our youth to maintain and accelerate their mental and physical wellbeing. Let’s keep them healthy, safe and playing!

Andrew Patton, MD is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in Sports Medicine at Orthopedic Specialists of Louisiana in Shreveport, Louisiana. Dr. Patton sees patients of all ages and all activity levels. To schedule an evaluation or to learn more about Dr. Patton and Orthopedic Specialists of Louisiana, please call or visit: 866.759.9679 or orthopedicspecialistsla.com

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Calendar of Events For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com January 6-February 11 Downtown West Monroe Mardi Gras Scavenger Hunt Enjoy the Mardi Gras season with the Downtown West Monroe Mardi Gras Scavenger Hunt. Visit westmonroechamber.org/shop-west/ for all the details and how to enter!

Venue: Downtown West Monroe Trenton St., West Monroe January 27-February 6 Ike Derby & Classic

The Ike Derby & Classic will be held January 27th-February 6th at the Ike Hamilton Expo Center.

Venue: Ike Hamilton Expo Center, 501 Mane Street, West Monroe Phone: 318-325-9160 February 5-7 Big Creek Trade Days

Big Creek Trade Days are held monthly on the weekend before the second Monday with over 100 indoor and outdoor vendors, food trucks, and fun for all ages!

Venue: Big Creek Trade Days 327 California Plant Rd, Dubach Hours: Friday & Saturday 9AM-5PM, Sunday 10 AM-4 PM Cost: $5 per vehicle for the weekend Phone: 318-680-1304 February 11-14 Best on the Bayou Classic

Watch as the ULM Softball teams battle it out at the Best on the Bayou Classic!

Venue: Ouachita Sports Complex 710 Holland Drive, Monroe February 12-14 North Delta Boat & Outdoor Show The Northeast Louisiana Boat Dealers Association will host the 2nd Annual North Delta Boat and Outdoor Show on February 12-14, 2021 at the Monroe Civic Center. They will highlight a great selection of boats and other outdoor equipment and North Louisiana's vast selection of products and services for the whole family to enjoy.

Venue: Monroe Civic Center 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe Phone: 318-329-2225

February 12-28 Mardi Crawl Downtown

The Crawl is back in a festive way! Join the Downtown Art Alliance as they turn Monroe-West Monroe into a drive through interactive art experience. Enjoy live music and other fun placed along the route on February 12th at the kick-off night.

The Mardi Crawl Parade will last throughout the month of February.

Venue: Downtown Monroe and West Monroe, Desiard and Trenton Streets February 13 Twin Cities Krewe de Riviere Parade at the Park

Parade through Kiroli Park and see all the floats the Twin Cities Krewe de Riviere will have placed throughout the park! The theme this year is Peace, Love and Mardi Gras.

Venue: Kiroli Park 820 Kiroli Road, West Monroe Hours: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Cost: $2 Phone: 318-396-4016 February 19-21 USA-BMX Gold Cup Qualifier

The USA-BMX Gold Cup Qualifier will be held February 19th-21st at the Monroe Civic Center.

Venue: Monroe Civic Center 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe Phone: 318-329-2225 February 20 World of Outlaws Sprint Cars

Dirt on the Rev presents World of Outlaws Sprint Cars on Feb. 20th.

Don't miss out!

Venue: Revolution Park Racetrack 8850 Frontage Rd, Monroe Phone: 318-812-7223 February 20-21 USSSA Fastpitch Softball Swing for the Ring

The USSSA Fastpitch Softball Swing for the Ring event will be held February 20th-21st at the Ouachita Sports Complex.

Venue: Ouachita Sports Complex 710 Holland Drive, Monroe Deep South Little Britches Rodeo Come experience the Deep

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South Little Britches Rodeo featuring barrel races, roping, riding, and more exciting rodeo events.

Venue: North Louisiana Exhibition Center, 165 Fairgrounds Rd, Ruston Hours: 9 AM Cost: $10 per family Phone: 318-282-7294 February 25-27 NELA Bayou Showdown

Midsouth Association of Independent Schools' NELA Bayou Showdown will be at the Sterlington Sports Complex.

Venue: Sterlington Sports Complex 1290 LA-136, Sterlington February 26-28 West Monroe Pen and Sort The USTPA West Monroe Pen and Sort will be held February 26th28th at the Ike Hamilton Expo Center.

Venue: Ike Hamilton Expo Center 501 Mane Street, West Monroe Phone: 318-325-9160 Open Season Sportsman's Expo The Louisiana Open Season Sportsman’s Expo will be filled with the latest products, gear and equipment for hunting, fishing, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Venue: Monroe Civic Center 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe Phone: 318-329-2225

February 27 Goat Yoga Goat yoga is for people of all ability or no ability at all. Class includes tour of farm. Class will be taught by Yogi, Elizabeth Griffon and will cost $20 per person.

Venue: Double BB Farms 1816 Stubbs Vinson Road, Monroe Hours: 11:00 AM Cost: $20 Phone: 318-355-1824 February 6, 13, 20, 27 Ruston Farmers Market Shop, eat and support local at the Ruston Farmers Market. Choose from a wide selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables, meat, eggs, honey, jams, salsa, and other locally produced goods.

Venue: Ruston Farmers Market, 220 E Mississippi Ave, Ruston, LA Hours: 9 AM – 1 PM Cost: Free to attend Phone: 318-957-1305