BayouLife Magazine May 2015 by BayouLife Magazine

BL contents

MAY 2015

30 / P. ALLEN SMITH Boon Companions: Vegetables and Flowers Grow Well Together 32 / BAYOU KIDZ Tips for Mother’s Day 42 / ASK ERIN Helpful Ways to Deal With Toy Clutter 48 / BAYOU ICON The Unauthorized Biography of Dianne Cage

58 / FISHING WITH KENNY The Top and Bottom of Fishing High Water

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70 / MEREDITH’S MUSINGS Mention of a Southern Yankee Matriarch 82 / MID CENTURY MUSE The Clarks Renovate a Rambling Ranch in DIY Style 106 / MOTHERS & DAUGHTERS Ellie and Kelly Jackson Don This Season’s Best Mother/Daughter Looks 113 / BAYOU ARTIST Lacey Stinson - Portraits of Motherhood 124 / BAYOU EATS Kingsland Ranch is Quickly Becoming The Go-To Source for Premium, Quality Beef 132 / A BETTER WAY How the Scott Family Works Together to Build a Legacy 143 / THE BORING LIFE The Story of Aly Taylor – Cancer Survivor and Mother 158 / GARDEN PARTY Bouquet of Flowers Abound in This Season’s Apparel

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BayouLife

AY MEANS A LOT OF

things for a lot of different people. For us, it means that we just wrapped up our Home Issue and are working on our Wedding Issue. For others, it means planting season is upon us, turkey season is over and graduation and Mother’s Day are almost here. I got really tickled when I read Cindy Foust’s article this month. She has some really good tips for dads this Mother’s Day, especially those looking for a way to impress mom with special and thoughtful homemade gifts from the whole family. Make sure to check it out on page 32. I found myself in tears – actually I was blubbering and barely able to get it together – after reading Tabby Soignier’s article on page 142. In this heartwarming article, Tabby interviews cancer survivor Aly Taylor. This intimate look at Aly’s life explores her battle with cancer and her journey to become a mom. It was exceptionally special to me because it is Tabby’s first article with BayouLife Magazine and after working with her at Gannett and seeing her beat ovarian cancer to now interview another young, cancer survivor – well, I am just on emotional overload. I met Kelly Moore Clark ten years ago when she shot my wedding. I knew then that she was extremely talented and am not surprised at the success she has had as a photographer and entrepreneur. After making a move from Ruston to Monroe, the Clark family opens their doors to BayouLife and shows us the amazing transformation of their new home. See pages 82-89 for Maré Brennan’s superb home feature.

2107 Honor Street, Suite E Monroe, LA 71201 Phone: 318.855.3185 Fax: 318.855.4645

WW W. B AYO UL I F EM A G . C O M Dianne Cage is elegant, beautiful and everything that encompasses the southern belle. Michael DeVault sits down with the Ark-La-Miss kitchen and gardening diva in a no holds barred profile on love, life and family. See page 48-53. We had two exquisite photo shoots this month. Brad Arender photographed mother and daughter, Kelly and Ellie Jackson. We had to coax Kelly to get in front of the camera, but what developed was a gorgeous woman every bit as lovely as her photogenic daughter, Ellie. See their photos on pages 106-110. In this issue, we cover a lot of home and garden-related topics. And our second photo shoot follows suit. On pages 158-162, April Hooper and Kayla Stites model clothing fit for a garden party. Thanks to the Hakim family, Martin G Meyers Photography and Meka Reliford, these images are as pretty as a bouquet of flowers. My mom has always been my best friend. Don’t think that doesn’t mean she didn’t discipline me when I acted like a fool – she was a teacher, after all. She has supported me in every way, most recently being our “Nanny Granny.” To her and all of the other moms out there, thank you for all you do for us. Special love to our BayouLife moms: Jeanie Green, Brenda Anderson, Phyllis Thompson, Mary Fuglaar, Kelly Jackson and Jessica Williams. We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of BayouLife Magazine.

~ Cassie Livingston

PUBLISHER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com EDITOR Maré Brennan mare@bayoulifemag.com STAFF WRITER Michael DeVault michael@bayoulifemag.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Moffett melanie@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Toni Navarro toni@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Scarlett Holland scarlett@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Ashley Yeldell ashley@bayoulifemag.com OFFICE MANAGER Ellie Jackson ellie@bayoulifemag.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Maré Brennan Kenny Covington Dr. David Finley Cindy Gist Foust Amy Green Linda Holyfield Kathryn Joyce Trent Livingston Erin Love Casey Matthews Dr. Brent Metts Meredith McKinnie Dr. Timothy Mickel Mary Napoli Analeise Reeves James Reneau Melissa Sanderlin Delia Simpson P. Allen Smith Tabby Soignier Beatrice A. Tatem Julianne Tippen Judy Wagoner CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Arender Martin G Meyers ON THE COVER Dianne Cage, page 48 Cover Photography by Brad Arender

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BayouLife Magazine is published and distributed by Redbird Publishing, LLC. Circulation: 12,000 copies monthly. Postal subscriptions ($20) can be ordered online at www.bayoulifemag.com. BayouLife Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, manuscripts or other materials. Reproduction of contents without express written permission is prohibited.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

Summer Brews

7 Refreshing Beers to Keep You Cool This Summer

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

HERE IS NO DOUBT THAT WE ALL need a little something to keep us cool during the sweltering summer months. Here are some great seasonal brews that fit the bill.

Samuel Adams Summer Ale With its hazy golden color and bright character, this flavorful American wheat ale says summer. The crisp citrus character of Noble hops, wheat, and lemon peel combines with the subtle peppery spice of Grains of Paradise. Grains of Paradise, also known as the Melegueta pepper, are more closely related to cardamom than pepper. According to medieval legend, Grains of Paradise was erroneously thought to have aphrodisiac properties. This rare African pepper was first used as a brewing spice in the 13th century, and adds just the right kick for a lively, flavorful, and utterly refreshing brew.

Angry Orchard Summer Honey Angry Orchard Summer Honey Apple Cider is light and refreshing, with subtle notes of wildflower honey, perfect for those warmer months. In addition to being gluten free, it can even be mixed with lemonade for a sparkling summer treat!

Abita Seersucker Summer Pils Abita Seersucker Summer Pils is a traditional pilsner with a full bodied malt flavor, 8 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

hop bitterness and a light golden color. It is made with pilsner and carapils malts, hopped with German Tradition and Spalt hops. This Pils pairs well with seasonal summer favorites like grilled chicken, salmon or garden salads. It also is a refreshing choice with spicier dishes, Mexican food and most Asian cuisines. Try it with a mild white Vermont cheddar, Havarti or Monterey Jack cheese.

Abita Harvest Lemon Wheat Lemon Wheat is a crisp, refreshing beer made with lemon peel for a fresh citrus taste and aroma. This unfiltered brew has a hazy, golden color and is made with lager and wheat malts, Centennial hops and Biere de Garde yeast. This brew is an excellent choice with many dishes. It pairs wonderfully with salads, if the dressing is not too sweet. Great with shrimp, lobster or any fish, even the most delicate.

Blue Moon Summer Honey Wheat As golden as the summer sun with a white, creamy head, Blue Moon Summer Honey Wheat has an aroma of rich clover honey that balances with light, biscuit malt notes. It is slightly sweet with a hint of citrus. It pairs beautifully with grilled summer fare such as marinated chicken or pork and can also be used as an ingredient in marinades.

Forbidden Traveler Apple Ale Forbidden Traveler is a crisp wheat beer brewed with real apple. Brewed with 3 different malts and Hallertau hops, its bright effervescence and refreshing aroma will tempt your senses. For a different spin on this apple ale, fill a 16oz pint glass with ice. Pour in 2oz watermelon vodka and 1oz cranberry juice and fill to top with Forbidden Traveler. Stir and enjoy!

Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy In the last few years, the shandy has become the go-to summer beverage. A shandy is beer mixed with a little something extra like soda, juice or ginger ale. Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy is a traditional weiss beer with refreshing natural lemonade flavor that makes it perfect for the sun-splashed summer months. The refreshing lemonade flavors pair great with backyard dishes like BBQ chicken, fruit salads, watermelon and freshly caught, grilled fish. Be sure to like Choice Brands on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram to keep up with local happenings and new product releases. In addition, you’ll find links to beer related articles, fun recipes and much more. Find us at facebook.com/choicebrands, t w i t t e r. c o m / c h o i c e b r a n d s i n c , a n d instagram.com/choicebrands.

Hearing Loss Difficulties Audibel The Hearing Center Can Help!

ACH MAY WE CELEBRATE NEW beginnings such as graduates going on to new adventures, the return of green grass and the sounds of birds chirping. This festive month is important for another reason as wellBetter Hearing Month! At this time of year, we reflect on the importance of better hearing and how our many patients have benefited from hearing care. Yet for many, May is not a month of better hearing. All too often we hear from the children, friends or spouses of individuals that refuse to accept their hearing loss difficulties. These companions reach out to us in hopes of setting an appointment for a free hearing consultation on behalf of their love one, but that person still prefers to not participate. What they are experiencing could be the important, yet easier to ignore, early signs of hearing loss. These early signs of hearing loss typically include having difficulty comprehending speech in noisy environments, straining to hear conversations on the phone, struggling to listen to music or television at normal levels as well as persistently asking others to repeat themselves. For close friends and family members, these symptoms are quite noticeable. As hearing loss progresses, the symptoms will occur more frequently and severely, ultimately leading to withdrawal from social events. Aging also brings cognitive processing deficits that interfere with communication and 10 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

can create distractions that effect a person’s life that include:

Memory and Hearing Loss Adults with hearing loss are more likely to develop problems thinking and remembering than adults with normal hearing. Adults with hearing loss develop a significant impairment in their cognitive abilities and experience a 30 to 40 percent greater decline in thinking abilities compared to their counterparts without hearing loss.

Dementia and Hearing Loss Seniors with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop dementia over time than those who retain their hearing. Adults with mild hearing loss are two times more likely to develop dementia, while those with severe loss are five times more likely.

Mental Health and Hearing Loss Adults, 50 years and older, with untreated hearing loss are more likely to report depression, anxiety, anger and frustration, emotional instability and paranoia, and are less likely to participate in social activities than those who wear hearing aids.

Tinnitus and Hearing Loss 90 percent of people with Tinnitus also have hearing loss. Tinnitus affects up to 50 mil-

lion Americans and the most common causes are noise exposure, aging, head injury and medication side effects.

We Can Help! While it does sound like all bad news, there is good news...we can help! A simple hearing test and video otoscopy can answer a lot of questions about your hearing. We will have a consultation about options to get you on the right track to improve your speech understanding and to make listening in group situations less fatiguing and more enjoyable. We will discuss technologies and fitting options to best fit your lifestyle and budget. Make May what it can be for all- a better hearing month! Whether it is yourself experiencing hearing loss or a loved one, take the first step today. Audibel The Hearing Center is Northeast Louisiana’s Audibel dispenser. Cherry Phillips “The Hearing Lady” has been serving this area for over 27 years. We offer free hearing screenings, free second opinions, extended warranties and repairs on all makes and brands of hearing aids. You can find out more by visiting our website www.AudibelMonroe.com and you can see more and like us on Facebook.com/AudibelMonroe.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

Balloon Sinuplasty™ Stop Suffering and Start Living

BRENT METTS, MD, PhD

INUSITIS IS ONE OF THE MOST COMMON CHRONIC health problems in the U.S., afflicting 37 million Americans each year with symptoms like congestion, fatigue, headache and facial pain. About 12% of Americans under age 45 have symptoms of chronic sinusitis. Here in Louisiana, the number is exceptionally high due to higher pollen counts and year-round humidity. Living with chronic sinusitis can be a full-time struggle. Sufferers often depend on allergy medications, nasal steroids and over the counter pain relievers for sinus headaches to make it through the day. Trouble with sleeping and sleep apnea are common problems because of difficulties with breathing through nose. Recurring sinus infections, often as many as 4 per year, cause missed work and significantly impact the ability to enjoy regular activities. Glenwood Ear, Nose and Throat offers Balloon Sinuplasty™, a clinically proven, minimally invasive procedure for treating chronic sinus inflammation and pain outside of the operating room and without general anesthesia. Performed by Brent Metts, MD, PhD, it delivers all the benefits of conventional sinus surgery without the bleeding, pain and prolonged recovery time. Most patients feel immediate relief following the procedure and are able to walk out of the office and work without restriction the next day. Until recently, the only surgical option available to correct chronic sinusitis has been standard endoscopic sinus surgery, where bone and tissue are cut and removed from the nasal passages to open obstructed sinuses and promote drainage. This more traditional procedure is usually associated with moderate pain, bleeding and a 7-10 day recovery time. Balloon Sinuplasty™ is designed to open blocked sinuses without removal of tissue or bone from the nasal passages. Dr. Metts passes a small, flexible balloon catheter through the nostril and into the blocked sinus. When the balloon is inflated, it gently reshapes and expands the sinus’ natural drainage pathway to 12 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

permanently restore normal sinus function. A typical procedure lasts approximately 30 minutes. Following the procedure, patients experience less facial pain and improved sleep, use less antibiotics and are able to perform day-to-day activities at home and work.

About Dr. Metts: Dr. Metts provides adult and pediatric patients with a full range of ENT services. His training began in a M.D, Ph.D. combined training program at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He completed his residency at the Medical College of Wisconsin and earned a fellowship in Endocrine – Head and Neck Surgery at the Medical College of Georgia. He was also a member of the teaching staff at Children’s Medical Center in Augusta, GA. Dr. Metts is one of the few surgeons in the nation who is fellowship trained in “minimally invasive” and “endoscopicassisted” thyroid and parathyroid surgeries. For decades these were inpatient procedures involving large incisions, extensive tissue trauma and scarring. This procedure is now performed by Dr. Metts on an outpatient basis, with a small incision, much less tissue trauma, less pain, a quicker recovery time and little or no noticeable scarring. In addition, Dr. Metts has a Ph.D. in Vestibular Neuroscience. Combined with his medical training in ENT, he specializes in the evaluation of patients with dizziness and equilibrium issues. Dr. Metts also provides treatment of sinus and thyroid disease, hearing loss, voice care, sleep apnea and dysphagia.

Glenwood Ear, Nose and Throat is located in the Glenwood Medical Mall at 102 Thomas Road, Suite 202, in West Monroe. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Metts, call 318-329-8458. Office hours from 8:00am to 5:00pm (M-F). Most insurances are accepted.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

Haik Humble Eye Center Introduces Medical Aesthetic Services Helping You SEE Well... LIVE Well... and Even LOOK Well

AIK HUMBLE EYE CENTER IS proud to introduce advanced cosmetic and medical aesthetic services to our practice offerings. Our services are provided in a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere utilizing the latest technology and highly qualified professionals to deliver great results. Our goal is to understand your areas of concern that need to be addressed and recommend the best leading edge treatments that fit your budget. Along with treatments such as injections of Botox and Juvederm, four non-surgical procedures are now available to help you look and feel your best.

LASER HAIR REDUCTION Using a gentle beam of light, the Lumenis LightSheer® can help solve the problem of unwanted hair. The LightSheer® is more than 75% faster than the average hair reduction session, and also features the unique HIT™ and ChillTip™ technologies for pain relief. Treatment takes between 10 to 60 minutes depending on the size of the area being treated. No sedation is required for treatment and there is minimal discomfort, with no downtime after treatments. Additionally, LightSheer® is a smart economical choice, saving you money spent on temporary hair removal solutions. IPL PHOTOREJUVENATION The Lumenis® IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) 14 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

photorejuvenation treatment offers visible improvements on a range of skin concerns such as age and sun spots, freckles, rosacea, broken capillaries and overall skin appearance. IPL treatment works with your skin to remove skin imperfections and stimulate collagen and elastic fiber production over a sequence of treatments. IPL is a fast “lunch-time” treatment with no downtime. Typically 2 to 6 sessions with 2-4 weeks in between are needed to achieve optimal results for most skin concerns.

ResurFx™ The Lumenis® ResurFx™ fractional laser is a non-ablative skin resurfacing technology for improving fine lines, skin texture and overall skin appearance. ResurFx is optimally tailored to address even the early signs of aging. This laser stimulates the production of new collagen and elastic fibers in the deeper layers of the skin. Stimulating new collagen production is the key to more radiant, youthful looking skin. Experience minimal downtime in a “lunch-time” treatment and return to your busy lifestyle. Optimal results are achieved after 3 to 5 sessions in 4 to 5 weeks intervals. However, you will continue to see improvements for up to six months following the treatment. VASER® SHAPE VASER Shape is a safe and effective body

shaping treatment that can smooth, firm and shape those troublesome problem areas to give you the body you desire. A non-invasive treatment that combines ultrasound and massage, VASER Shape generally requires 3 to 5 treatments with no pain and no downtime. The procedure will smooth and shape your body, but it is not a weight loss solution. If you have those problem areas that are resistant to diet and exercise, and are looking for a nonsurgical solution, then ask about VASER Shape today. In addition to non-surgical procedures, Haik Humble Eye Center continues to provide a wide range of cosmetic surgical procedures, such as eyelid surgery, laser skin resurfacing and neck liposuction. Whether you are considering the many cosmetic procedures we offer or interested in discussing skin care maintenance, we can assist you in developing a realistic plan to achieve your goals. Safety and your results are of utmost importance for us at Haik Humble Eye Center, and we do our best to make sure you have the most experienced doctors and staff working with you every step of the way. For more information on our medical aesthetic services or to schedule an appointment, please call our main office in West Monroe at (318) 325-2610.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

Ugly Divorce?

Melissa Sanderlin Discusses Divorce Mediation

BY MELISSA SANDERLIN, LPC-S NCC

T’S ESTIMATED THAT ABOUT HALF OF ALL MARRIAGES end in divorce. Sometimes, a marriage is just not salvageable, no matter how hard the couple tries. But like a lot of things in life, circumstances tend to get worse before they get better. When the decision is made by one or both parties to divorce, life gets more complicated before the moving-on process begins. Many couples try to handle a divorce between them, with no lawyers or judges. This sometimes can be successful, especially if there are few assets or debts and no children. It helps if there is little to no tension or ill feelings between parties as well. These divorces are rare. It is hard to expect two people that have shared a life together to go their separate ways with no arguments or disputes. If they get along that well, then it is doubtful they would divorce at all. Most divorces involve attorneys and judges. Settling a divorce through litigation can be extraordinarily painful and time consuming. One or both parties may experience extreme anger, hurt, resentment and fear. We all know someone who has gone through a nasty divorce. A lot of people lose all perspective and rationale. It becomes about payback and winning rather than what is best for everyone. Even if the divorce is completed in the normal 365 days, a custody battle or property dispute can carry on for years. The parties can spend more money in legal fees than they are fighting over! It can become very petty and bring out the worst in people. It can also distract the parties from moving on and parenting their children appropriately. It is easy to get so emotionally involved in attacking someone, or defending yourself, that the welfare of the children is completely forgotten. Remember that children experience what parents experience. Even parents that try to hide anger and hate, children still sense it. This affects the relationship the children have with both parents. As if it wasn’t hard enough for them to adjust to the divorce itself, now they have to worry about their parents’ emotional well-being. There is another alternative to the litigated divorce. A lot of people are using mediation services to handle their divorce. A certified

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mediator can help parties settle distribution of property (including assets and debts), custody/parenting plans, child support, spousal support and other issues that arise during a divorce. This can be accomplished with or without the assistance of attorneys. Sometimes, mediation can even be court ordered if the issues are not resolved in a hearing. There are many benefits to using mediation: • Mediation is effective in settling disputes 80% of the time. • It is much quicker than litigation. Agreements are usually made in 2-4 sessions. • It costs a fraction of a long litigated divorce. • Parties have decision-making power rather than having a stranger decide on their fates. • Everyone has the opportunity to be heard. In court, the judges and attorneys choose what is shared. • It is confidential, unlike the public record of the legal system. • People are much more likely to adhere to mutually agreed upon terms, rather than court ordered decisions. • It can be more creative than the cookie cutter solutions used by the court system. • It can help both parties learn to communicate more appropriately.

So what is the role of the mediator? The mediator is a neutral third party that helps the people involved reach agreements that are fair for both and best for the children. The mediator does not make decisions or pass judgment. She helps both parties understand the issues, communicate appropriately and assists in resolutions.

Melissa Sanderlin is a certified Louisiana Family and Divorce mediator. If you are facing a divorce or custody issue, and are considering mediation, contact Melissa and her staff at 318.323.7575 or info@sanderlincounselingservices.com.

Selling Your Home 29 Tips That Get Homes Sold Fast: Part 3

BY KATHRYN JOYCE, REALTOR

ART 3 OF OUR GUIDE THAT will give you the tools you need to maximize your profits, maintain control and reduce the stress that comes with the home-selling process.

• TIP #8 – Give yourself room to negotiate. Make sure you leave yourself enough room in which to bargain. If what you ask for is unacceptable to the buyer, and their first offer is unacceptable to you, then you better make sure you have someplace to go that is acceptable to you. Start with the absolute minimum price you would accept, then pick the price you’d get if the world were perfect. This gives you your range to keep in mind when working with your Realtor® to negotiate the sale. In setting your asking price, review your priorities. Do you want to maximize your profit or sell quickly? You’ll price high for the former and closer to market value if the latter is the case.

• TIP #9 – Maximize your home’s sales potential. Each year, corporate North America spends billions of dollars on product and packaging design. The lesson here is that appearance is critical—and it would be foolish to ignore this when selling your home. 18 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

You may not be able to change your home’s location or its floor plan, but you can do a lot to improve its appearance. And you should. The look and “feel” of your home generates a greater emotional response than any other factor. You may price your home to sell, but a prospective buyer reacts to what they see, hear, feel and smell.

• TIP #10 – Rely on other people’s judgement as well as your own. The key to effective marketing is knowing your product’s good and bad points. In the case of your home, accentuating the good can mean a faster sale for more money; failing to deal with the bad can mean months on the market and a lowerthan-desired sales price. The biggest mistake you can make at this point is to rely solely on your own judgement. Remember this is your home, a place of fond memories. There are bound to be emotional issues that can impair your ability to make an honest assessment of your home’s strengths and weaknesses. In evaluating what improvements you can make, don’t be shy about asking others for their opinions. But make sure you’re getting an honest answer; some may try to spare your feelings, just what you don’t need. Fortunately, your Realtor® won’t be shy in discussing what should be done to make a home more marketable.

• TIP #11 – Clean like you’ve never cleaned before. Pick up, straighten, unclutter, scrub, scour, dust…well, you get the idea. If your living room feels crowded, take out every piece of furniture you can get away with. If your home still isn’t ready to appear in House Beautiful, then clean some more. Remember, you’re not just competing with other people’s homes—you’re going up against brand-new homes as well.

• TIP #12 – Fix everything no matter how insignificant it may appear. The step that squeaks, the light switch that doesn’t work, the hairline crack in the bathroom mirror—they might be minor annoyances to you, but they can also be dealkillers. The problem is that you never know what will turn a buyer off. And even something minor that’s gone unattended can suggest that perhaps there are bigger, less visible problems present as well.

Please feel free to call Perry & Associates Residential Real Estate, if you would like further explanation on any of these topics or if you have any real estate questions at all. You can reach us at (318) 807-4663. To see what home prices are like in your neighborhood, visit our website www.perryresidential.com Stay tuned for more tips next month!

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

4th Annual EGGfest

Lincoln Outdoor Living celebrated their 4th annual EGGFest on March 21. The Big Green Egg was showcased on multiple levels by “eggheads” cooking on over two dozen eggs. Guests enjoyed good food and great deals on items in the store. The rain, thankfully held off for the majority of the event. The event was kicked off with a Spring Open House the day before, featuring a Wusthof knife demonstration, as the entire store was on sale. All purchases entered guests’ names in a drawing for a K2 cooler and a mini Big Green Egg.

On the BayouScene

1 Debbie and Richard Dieter 2 Ron and Tracy Six, (Bottom row) Camren Six and Landen Six 3 Abby, Maggie and Adam Bamburg 4 Katelyn Tolbert, Jana Beck and Annabeth Brunson 5 Alex Burt, Tim Shaw, Rob Owens and Montana Boyd 6 Connie Stewart, Deborah Maestro, Julia Nations, Sam Nations, Peyton Nations, and Cole Maestro 7 Jenny and John Juneau, Derek Busby and Bjay Durrett 8 Josh and Erin Rabb 9 Montana Boyd, Jack Rome and Jordan Rome 10 Susan Guillot, Diane and Wayne Hunter 11 Jared Hedges and Brandon Bruce 12 Becky and George Smith 13 Matt, Shavon and Gauge Parette 14 Toby and Julia Nations 15 Ray Alford and Hunter Smith

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WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

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

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

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

Bud Light Lime Raz-Ber-Rita Bud Light Lime Raz-Ber-Rita has the great berry taste of a raspberry margarita with a twist of Bud Light Lime. Check out budlight.com for delightful summertime recipes. 6% ABV

Bud Light Straw-Ber-Rita Fiesta forever! Bud Light Lime StrawBer-Rita has the great taste of a strawberry margarita, perfect for summertime, with a twist of Bud Light Lime for a delightfully refreshing finish. 6% ABV

Bud Light Lime Mang-O-Rita Bud Light Lime Mang-O-Rita has the 22 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

great taste of a mango margarita with a twist of Bud Light Lime for a delightfully refreshing finish. There’s no need to spend time mixing and blending. Just pour over ice and enjoy! 6% ABV

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

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

Baby Breeze A Rita Family twist on a beach classic.

Pour, sit back and enjoy the waves! Ingredients: • 4 oz. Raz-Ber-Rita • 4 oz. Mang-O-Rita • 2 oz. pineapple juice • 2 oz. cranberry juice Garnish: • Lemon Method: Combine all ingredients into glass. Pour over ice and garnish.

Pomegranate Straw-Ber-Rita A tart and delightful concoction, perfect for a cocktail party. Ingredients: • 4-6 oz. Straw-Ber-Rita • 2 oz. Pomegranate Juice • 1 oz. Cherry Juice Garnish: • Lemon Wheel • Cherry Glassware: • Highball Glass Method: Fill glass with ice. Combine Straw-BerRita and pomegranate juice. Add a splash of cherry juice. Garnish and serve.

For more great Rita mixing recipes please visit: http://budlightlime-lime-arita.tumblr.com/tagged/recipe

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

M O O N

G A R D E N

Dallas and Atlanta based sales representative for Reeves & Company, Analeise Reeves, shares her insight on the color white. ith my approaching wedding and future with my fiancé, I find my mind focused on the life I want to build which includes creating our home. Nesting details and starting collections is a part of how we express ourselves, young and old. I plan to make our environment not only a representation of our personal aesthetic but also a place of harmony that’s inviting and warm. Currently, I’m drawn to the color white, for obvious reasons. For me, white represents rest, peace, purity, class and elegance, all of which I want my future home, garden and my own personal style to exude.

W Benjamin Moore’s “Decorator’s White”

Planted Orchid EQUIPMENT Signature washed-silk shirt $210

Williams-Sonoma solid cashmere throw $249

HOME

GARDEN

A white canvas for a painter is the starting point from which all things beautiful are created. In my opinion, the home is the same way. Any framed family portrait or lovely work of art always shines brightest against a white wall. Some of my favorite white paint colors are Benjamin Moore’s “China White,” “Decorator’s White,” and for the more earthy home, Benjamin Moore’s beige tone, “Navajo White.” When it comes to the bedroom, white is a must. My mom, Amanda, clearly has rubbed off on me because I can hardly to stand to sleep on anything but cotton white sheets. Firstly, I always feel more clean and refreshed after sleeping in a bed with white sheets. Secondly, no matter what your bedroom color scheme is, white sheets are going to look fabulous on the bed. A fresh pop of white via the sheets, monogrammed shams or a cashmere throw will add a classic richness to any bedroom. White furniture also makes a grand statement in a living room, dining room or even a parlor. Choose a white couch or side table in white marble to add elegance to your home.

The term “moon garden” suggests landscapes that are designed in order for you to enjoy their beauty at night without the unsightly use of artificial light. This is achieved by planting flowers whose blooms are lighter in color (most typically, white), plants with brighter foliage, night bloomers and even fragrant blooms. The light of the moon enhances the beauty of these plants but isn’t necessarily needed to enjoy them. A mass of beautiful white flowers has the biggest impact in a moon garden. Women, and men, who work during the day often appreciate this type of landscape for the sole fact that it can be enjoyed after the sun has set. You can sit in your backyard after a long day with a glass of Sauvignon-Blanc and enjoy your beautiful view. Some of my favorite plants for a moon garden include clematis, impatiens, white tulips, white azaleas or rhododendrons, hydrangeas (specifically white oak leaf), spiraea, dogwood trees and confederate jasmine. You can also bring the light of the moon into your home with a classic orchid for the dining table or a vase full of white David Austin roses.

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Baked meringues with fresh berry compote ASOS Premium midi skater dress with daisy appliqués $135

STYLE I get tickled when I go to my closet in the morning by how many variations of the white shirt I own. I think between my mother, grandmother and I, we might have close to 100! We love them not just for their style and ease but because of how they make us feel. They’re great with denim or even a floral printed skirt for entertaining. My grandmother, Linda, once told me that when you entertain at your home, it’s never a bad idea to wear white (or ivory). White is clean and fresh and looks great with an early summer tan. For someone in their twenties or thirties, I suggest a youthful but modest sundress, sleeveless or short-sleeved, just above the knee or tea-length. For the more mature, a flowing wide leg pant and longsleeve satin or sheer blouse is always lovely. Your significant other should wear a fresh white collared shirt or a linen shirt to compliment your look. In keeping with the theme, serve your guests a beautiful pitcher homemade white sangria (infused white wine with an assortment of stone fruits) and individual baked meringues with a fresh berry compote.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

Spring Into Spring

Valuing the Transformations in Nature and Ourselves During Spring

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

PRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY flowers is a phrase taught in school to help us learn the months of the year. When being coy we would add, “The month of May brings June bugs.” Spring rains are seen as stirring the seeds that create new growth. The warmth of the season helps speed up fruition. The fifth month of the year, May is nestled in the season of spring; a time of the year when the weather is not too cold, not too hot. The month is full of transition shaped by the shift in the season and the visible changes in the foliage. Most people enjoy these days particularly after having an unpredictable winter while anticipating a hot summer. While gathering my thoughts to write this month’s article I found myself looking outside my office window. To my surprise the trees were budding. It was a change in nature I had been too busy to appreciate. When preparing to commit my thoughts on paper, I felt a rush of emotions, a feeling I experience every year this month, emotional shifts that coincide with the shifts in the season. Emotional shifts referred to in mental health as “anniversaries.” May houses Mother’s Day and according to my mother after my birth in May, Mother’s Day would forever hold special significance for her. It is also, the month in which several people dear to me celebrate their birthdays. May is when I arrived at several academic milestones in my life. To the contrary, May is also the month in which I 26 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

have experienced profound loss. At the start of May each year, I stop and take a deep breath; it has proven in my life to be a month of significant life altering events. With good and bad occurrences, May is indeed a special month for me. What is the significance of spring in relation to your life? Spring is known for its warmer, brighter and longer days. It is symbolic of the season of renewal and a need for a fresh start. For many, spring creates a healthy sense of optimism and hope. It provides for some the energy necessary to make transformation in keeping change occurring around us in nature. There are those who regard this as a time to break out of old patterns, to discard the emotional and physical clutter to reach higher and greater goals. The symbolism of spring is one most people can appreciate. Spring unfolds in us in the same way. Meaning inwardly and emotionally we experience the forces of the season. How does spring make you feel? Does it make you feel happy, energetic, joyful or does it make you feel melancholy, confused and in of a change? Are you ready to spring into spring? Mental Health Awareness month is celebrated in May. This is a designated time each year dedicated to the discussion about mental health conditions and the services and resources available. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 1 in 10 Americans will be affected by mental health issues. Un-

fortunately fewer than 25 percent with a diagnosable mental disorder will seek treatment. Fortunately, this is changing; people are increasingly seeking mental health services. This increase has been found to be particularly true during springtime. Many people seek counseling as a personal quest for a new beginning and in an effort to transform their lives. Appropriately Mental Health Awareness Month occurs during the time of the year symbolic of a fresh start. This May discover the spring in you. Spring forth with new ideas and experiences. Work towards rebirth and personal evolution. Fantasize about what you want your life to be and act on it. Bloom brilliantly like the flowers of spring. Have a spring fling with friends and family. Appreciate the season known for beauty. Resurrect your life as necessary. Recognize your mood changes with the changes of the season and shift your attitude when necessary. Breathe in the regenerative powers of warm fresh air and soak up plenty of sunshine (it can be rejuvenating). Celebrate Mother’s Day, seek balance and harmony, reawaken treasured values and capture springtime optimism. May the signs of spring seen in nature be in you!

For more information on counseling and outreach services contact Dr. Beatrice Tatem at Wellness Initiatives, LLC, 1900 North 18 th Street, Suite 414, Monroe, La 71201, 318-410-1555 or at btatem.bt@gmail.com.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

The Grove Takes Shape Lincoln Realty Develops Premium Home Community

ICKY NEALY HAS BIG PLANS FOR A QUIET CORNER

of Ruston not too far off the Tech exit near I-20. Situated on Kavanaugh and Cooktown Roads, Lincoln Realty has broken ground on the latest signature residential community in the parish, The Grove. For potential residents, The Grove will offer a first-of-its-kind community in the Ruston area. It’s the third major development for Nealy, who previously developed Jefferson Oaks Subdivision and Woodstone. The Grove, though, is something different. “It’s a zero lot-line, single family residential development offering homes starting at $269,000,” Nealy explains. Homes in The Grove will range from 1,600 to 2,100 sq. feet. Once completed, The Grove will be home to 25 newly constructed houses, each completed with a complimentary style. Lincoln Realty’s Bobbie Dyer said the homes’ exteriors are inspired by Acadian French designs with a modern flair. Brick and stucco exteriors will be finished with traditional Louisiana elements, giving each home a unique aesthetic. “It’s a community with a clear design theme, but with individually designed, custom homes,” Dyer said. The Grove will bear some resemblance to nearby zero lot-line developments such as Louisianne in Monroe. Sidewalks throughout the subdivision will be lit by decorative lampposts. Lots may be purchased to custombuild your own home. Choose from one of our eight designs or create your own plan, subject to architectural controls. Just because the homes are zero lot-line doesn’t mean their owners will be giving up outdoor living. Each home will feature a courtyard, one of the signature elements of zero lot-line construction. “Each courtyard can be customized to the buyer’s unique tastes,” said Nealy. For some, that will mean outdoor kitchens while, for others, fountains and firepits will anchor the space. Each courtyard is open and also features a covered patio-porch area; 28 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

however, the spaces are private from the street view. It will be a welcome change for those seeking a bit of privacy without giving up the convenience of city living and amenities connected to a premium subdivision. Dyer touted other amenities, as well, including a host of services and benefits provided by The Grove’s homeowners association. Residents will pay annual fees, which will provide water and maintenance for all common areas, a feature common to developed and managed communities. However, for residents of The Grove, the homeowners’ association will provide far more. Each lawn will be fully landscaped prior to purchase, and each home will come equipped with a sprinkler system. However, unlike other communities, The Grove HOA will provide all maintenance and upkeep on the front lawns of each home, and the residents’ fees will also provide water and maintenance for the sprinkler system. “That will provide a stress-free living experience for our residents,” said Nealy. But he also pointed out The Grove isn’t just about outdoor spaces and pretty designs. Each home will also provide interior spaces sure to delight even the most discerning buyer. Five-inch wood plank flooring throughout will compliment 10-foot ceilings and granite countertops. Each home will also be customized to buyers’ specifications with premium fixtures and lighting. The Grove broke ground April 15th, and homes will begin going up immediately. Nealy anticipates the first homes in The Grove will be available by mid-October, and he’s looking forward to showing off the new development to potential residents. “It’s going to be like nothing else in Lincoln Parish,” he said. For more information, contact Lincoln Realty at 318-255-7480 or visit www.RustonLincolnRealty.com.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

P. Allen Smith Boon Companions: Vegetables and Flowers Grow Well Together

Scarlet runner bean (Phaseolus coccineussca) climbs up a simple bamboo teepee creating an eye-cathcing focal point. The beans, flowers and young leaves are all edible.

Herbs, vegetables and flowers make good bed partners because most have the same growing requirements—full sun, consistent moisture and good drainage PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF: BETTY BREEZE AND JANE COLCLASURE

hink about this. A garden planted with flowers or vegetables in segregated beds might appear well planned, but this separation may not make for the most functional or intriguing garden. There are many reasons, both aesthetic and practical, to merge these two worlds. By combining ornamentals and edibles you’ll maximize your available space and add the unexpected to your garden’s design. As a bonus, many plants actually benefit each other by controlling pests, attracting pollinators and enriching the soil; an arrangement known in gardening circles as companion planting. If you want to try a mix of blossoms, herbs, fruits and vegetables, the simplest place to start is your vegetable garden. Adding flowers really puts zing into the space. I like to use blooms and colorful foliage as focal points or as edging to define the space. For an effective focal point position eye-catching varieties where they will stand out and plant in groups of three or more. You can quickly create a main attraction with a large container of sun-loving coleus or cheery petunias. I like using pansies in spring and fall or marigolds in summer for a colorful edging. Or how about enclosing your vegetable garden with walls of sunflowers or borders of zinnias? And these blooms aren’t just pretty, they’ll lend a helping hand too. For instance, sunflowers will magnetize aphids drawing them away from the rest of your garden, while marigolds will keep hungry rabbits at bay. Petunias and zinnias attract pollinating insects to plants that need them to produce fruit such as squash, melons and pumpkins. 30 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

When you dare to liberate vegetables from the vegetable garden, you’ll find these plants provide beautiful solutions to many a design quandary. For instance, strawberries make an excellent seasonal ground Honey bees who cover. Swiss chard frequent borage ‘Bright Lights’ is a (Borage officinalis) flowers favorite of mine to produce an explace among flowers ceptional honey. because of its rainbow-colored stems. It is easy to grow in the ground or in containers and is one of the few greens that tolerates both cool and warm temperatures. With its big leaves and full habit, squash will quickly fill in bare spots. Plant garlic with your roses to repel Japanese beetles and enjoy the round, golf ball-size flowers in spring. If you really want to create a surprise, there are quite a few vining vegetables that can be grown on a teepee trellis to add height and rhythm to your garden border. You may want to try Malabar spinach on a trellis or a grapevine over an arbor. I particularly like pairing purple hyacinth bean vine and golden hops – it’s a smoking hot combo. No garden is complete without color, and there’s no doubt herbs provide the best of both worlds—color and functionality. These edibles can bring a bounty of striking color and purpose to your garden, as well as flavor to

Above: Larkspur and lettuce in the spring garden.

your palate. A flowering herb, such as pineapple sage, produces cardinal red blooms that last well into late summer and fall. Chives, which sprout from the tiniest of bulbs, generate delicate blossoms in the shape of little lavender powder puffs adding charm to your space. Dill produces delicate umbels of yellow

FLOWERS and VEGETABLES IN CONTAINERS

Edibles in containers couldn’t be more popular this season and why not mix in flowers, too? Personal design and size of your container is only limited to your imagination. Overflowing blooms and vegetables in refurbished vintage or contemporary containers can add new and unexpected elements of beauty and charm. Pick containers for functionality as well as beauty. Select container designs that reflect your style. Make sure those containers have adequate drainage and are made of a material that is free from chemicals that could leach into your edibles. Food grade plastic and terra cotta are good choices. Plan your space. Most plants require 6 hours of sunlight each day, but there are some variations that will thrive in shaded spots, such as salad greens or cool season herbs. Select your plants. Many herbs, vegetables and flowers do well in containers, so be creative with cultivars. Consider the height, abundance and color combinations. Prepare your soil. With the right soil preparation you are sure to harvest an abundance of fresh herbs, vegetables and blooms. Enrich your soil with compost for optimum nutrition. Fertilize and hydrate. Container plants usually require fertilizing and frequent watering, because there’s not much soil in which to store moisture. Use an organic liquid fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions and water when the top inch of soil is dry. During hot, dry weather you may have to water every day. blooms, while borage sprouts beautiful blue star-shaped blossoms. Did you know the borage flowers are essential in providing pollen and nectar to bees? When it comes to functionality, a favorite herb such as thyme is versatile and vibrant. Not only does it cover ground, but it has a fascinating creeping quality that drapes brick, stone or low walls. Rosemary, with its piney fragrance is a hearty evergreen shrub, while the grayish-green foliage of lavender brings beauty to pathway borders and grows well in containers. If you want to mix and mingle vegetables and flowers with success remember, as with all bedfellows, to choose plants with the same growing requirements. Typically vegetables require at least 6 hours of sun each day. There are exceptions such as lettuce, parsley and spinach that will tolerate light shade. Vegetables also need well-draining soil and consistent moisture. If there are areas of your garden that are hard to water, consider planting herbs as most types are drought tolerant. There is a huge selection of blooming plants that like full sun as well and benefit from a similar watering routine as their edible companions, but always check the plant tags to make sure. Both fruiting and flowering plants need a lot of nutrients to thrive. Since you are going to eat some of what you’re growing use an organic fertilizer and avoid chemical pest controls.

Above: A galvanzied pale with holes drilled in the bottom for drainage is an inexpensive container that is large enough to accommodate a roma tomato, boxwood basil and ‘Totally Tempted’ cuphea (Cuphea llavea).

P. Allen Smith P. Allen Smith is an award-winning designer, gardening and lifestyle expert and host of two public television programs, Garden Home and Garden to Table, and the syndicated 30-minute show P. Allen Smith’s Garden Style. Smith is one of America's most recognized and respected design experts, providing ideas and inspiration through multiple media venues. He is the author of the best-selling Garden Home series of books. Allen is also very active on social media such as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Learn more at www.pallensmith.com. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

BAYOUKIDZ

Tips for Mother’s Day

Ideas For Your Children to Make Mom Feel Extra Special

article by Cindy G. Foust

arning: this article is intended for mature male audiences who take Mother's Day seriously…otherwise, please turn the page to the next riveting BayouLife article. Yes, this article is written explicitly for the men in the BayouLife nation, and their little BL children. So moms, if you are reading this, close your eyes and walk this magazine (well, that's kind of silly, because you can't see where you are going) to your husband's reading area (his bedside, his toilet or his Archie Bunker recliner) and dog ear this page! It may benefit you during the upcoming Mother's Day festivities. Okay, now that I have the attention of the dads who read my column, I am starting this month's edition with the gentle reminder that Mother's Day is SUNDAY, MAY 10TH (my children have advised me that words written in all caps means the writer is shouting) and so that you know, that is my intention. I want our dads to prepare for this special day a little early this year, and I am prepared to give you some new and invigorating ideas to help you celebrate the day that honors your mother and the mother to your children (the one that gained 84 pounds and laid in a hospital bed for 48 hours to deliver your child). You can thank me later. For starters, and to get one thing out there before we start plowing through the wonderful ideas I have come up with, moms love anything their children make for them. With that being said, they also love anything that has clearly had

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thought put into it. So, as the Mother Day's Fairy (minus the wings, because they don't come in my size of extra small) I am going to delight our dads with some EXTRA special ideas for you and your children to make mom feel EXTRA special this year. First, and one of my favorites, buy a large Mason jar (or two or three depending on how many children you have). Finding Mason jars may sound like an overwhelming task, but you can find them at any hardware or hobby store or the local retail giant. Next, have your children sit at the table, with a notebook and write 52 things (one for each week) that they love about their mother. Next, and I feel confident your children will be top-notch scissor ninjas, have them cut each thing they love about their mom into strips and fold them up individually. Put them in the jar and close the lid. On the outside of the jar, either on a sheet of paper, a notecard or written directly on the jar, have them write, "52 Things I Love About My Mom." I LOVE THIS! For the next year, your "mom" can pull out something their children love about them every week. This will help to remind mom, say if their darlings get in trouble at school or forget to take out the trash or get a bad grade on Edline, why in fact they appreciate their children! Second, how about the age-old breakfast in bed? I truly feel this act of kindness is a dying good deed. I mean, who wouldn't want to wake up to breakfast prepared by their children?

What could be sweeter than a mom's entire family bull dozing their way into her room and waking her to the song, in unison, "For she's a jolly good mother!" Every mother, I suspect, would love this. Third, (this might be the Mason jar holiday 2015), drag out another large jar and head to the store (for some, it might be to the discount stores, for others, it might be the mall) and get ready to shove anything "spa" in the jar. That's right, the Mason jar that pampers! Before you get that overwhelmed yet again, just think fingernail polish, a Loofah (that's a fancy washcloth that looks like your hair when you wake up in the morning), soaps, scrubs, or my favorite, gift cards for manicures, pedicures or facials. This jar right here might definitely earn you some brownie points, and the kids will love helping you fill the jar with pampering products. Fourth, (and another writing activity, of course), have the kids back to the table and get those crayons and markers out. This is a much simpler activity than the above number one, but, just as sweet and endearing. This project simply needs a nice piece of card stock (Dad, this is a sheet of paper a little heavier than copy paper) and some markers and crayons. The theme at the top of the page is "5 Things I Love About Mom" and your child should write, in extra large handwriting, the numbers 1 through 5 on the left side of the page. Out beside each number your child can write 5 individual things they love about their mom. Now, if you want to get super sophisticated and make your wife think you are a gift giving genius, you can take the final work of art to Office Depot and have them laminate it. Dads, that's my job as the Mother's Day Fairy, to make you look super brilliant. Oh, and you are welcome. Finally, and I saved the best for last for you dads who like to live life a little in the fast lane, but I'm going to tell you how to make facial scrubs. Homemade! It's pure Mother's Day genius! Before you bolt, and simply run out and buy a card and call it a day, this is much easier than it sounds. I think a great idea would be to send mom to get her toes done or to the movies with her friends, gather the children around the kitchen island, and let the awesomeness begin. You will need, and I know you will be shocked, several mason jars. You will need to buy some honey (squeeze bottle works the best) and and some white granulated sugar. Find a small mixing bowl and fill it about 2/3 full with honey (for exact measurements, see Martha Stewart, for guesstimates, see Cindy Foust). Start putting a tablespoon of sugar into the honey bowl (CONTINUED ON PAGE 178)

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

Glenwood Medical Group Quality Doctors You Expect. Compassionate Care You Deserve.

LENWOOD MEDICAL GROUP recruits and employs highly qualified and skilled physicians with diverse medical specialties to support Glenwood Regional Medical Center. Working together, we are making a difference in the lives of our patients, our hospital and our community.

BRAIN & SPINE SURGERY Jorge Alvernia, MD Dr. Alvernia is an exceptionally skilled surgeon concentrating in the area of brain tumors, nerve disorders and spinal conditions. He completed his residency at Tulane University and earned his brain tumors fellowship in Lyon, France. He is a member of multiple international neurological societies and has published numerous articles in medical peer review journals and chapters in neurosurgery textbooks.

HEART & VASCULAR SURGERY Harry Donias, MD Dr. Donias’ services include mitral valve, tricuspid valve and aortic valve repair or replacement, on and off pump coronary artery bypass, proximal aortic and arch pathology, surgical treatment of atrial fibrillation, lung and esophageal cancer, aneurysms, peripheral revascularization and carotid stenosis, as well as minimally invasive and endovascular techniques.

EAR, NOSE & THROAT Brent Metts, MD, PhD Dr. Metts is one of the few surgeons in the nation who are fellowship trained in minimally invasive and endoscopic assisted thyroid and 34 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

parathyroid surgeries. His services include sinus disease, balloon sinuplasty, thyroid disease, hearing loss, voice care, sleep apnea, throat problems, tonsillitis and ear infections.

GLENWOOD STAT CARE AND FAMILY MEDICINE Daniel Trejo, M.D. Dr. Trejo completed his residency in family medicine at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Chicago, and has been practicing family medicine in Northeast Louisiana since 2003. His services include diagnosis and treatment of many conditions including minor illness, injury and emergencies for newborns, pediatrics, adults and geriatrics. EKGs and X-rays are also performed in-office at his clinic.

GLENWOOD FOOT & ANKLE David Gardner, DPM Dr. Gardner specializes in bunions, hammer toes, flat foot, Achilles tendonitis, toenail fungus, ingrown toenails, heel pain, neuromas, corns, calluses, warts, deformities, geriatric conditions, diabetic foot conditions and sports injuries of the lower legs and feet. He also provides wound care treatment weekly at Glenwood’s Hyperbaric and Wound Care Center.

GENERAL SURGERY Frank Sanfiel, MD Dr. Sanfiel specializes in hernia repair, breast surgery, gastrointestinal surgery, skin and soft tissue infections and other common surgical interventions.

GENERAL SURGERY & WOUND CARE Russell T. Lolley, MD Dr. Lolley is the Medical Director of Glenwood’s Hyperbaric & Wound Care Center. The Center offers transcutaneous oxygen monitoring, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, wound debridement, specialty wound dressing and skin grafts, compression therapies and diabetic foot care.

INTERNAL MEDICINE & PREVENTIVE CARDIOLOGY Alyce Adams, MD Dr. Adams has been a certified Diabetes Educator who specializes in diabetes, hypertension and preventive cardiology. She also offers EKGs, stress tests and echocardiograms.

FAMILY & INTERNAL MEDICINE Roland Ponarski, MD Dr. Ponarski specializes in diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol. In addition, he offers routine physical exams and CDL license exams. NEUROLOGY Michael Boykin, MD Dr. Boykin completed his residency at the Medical College of Virginia and attended Loyola School of Medicine for Neurology. Dr. Boykin’s services include: EEG, NVC/EMG studies, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, tremors, epilepsy, sleep disorders, myasthenia gravis, ALS, multiple sclerosis and neuropathy. (Continued On Page 178)

St. Fred’s PTO Luau On March 27, the Island Drive home of Catherine and Collins Coons became a tropical paradise for the St. Frederick’s supporters, who gathered poolside to raise funds for the high school’s continued improvements to Technology and Science Labs. The PTO Chairs for the event were Delaine Wylie, Dawn Burgess, Sheila O'Leary, Kristi Jones, Katherine Wilson, Catherine Coon, Brenda Hilburn, Hannah Livingston and Misti Cordell. Guests were able to choose from a variety of silent and live auction items, including a turkey hunt, a crawfish boil, a lobster dinner and even the chance to be an Honorary Senator for the day, provided by Senator Francis Thompson. The Hawaiian feast included a spread from Thurman’s Food Factory and sliders from Central Station’s Slider Rider food truck. Party goers hula-ed the night away to the sounds of Flashback 5.

On the BayouScene

1 Misti Cordell, Brenda Hilburn and Hannah Livingston 2 Sammy and Therese Nagem, Tracy and Darren Oglesby 3 Debbie Luﬀey, Lillian Paxton, Katherine Wilson 4 Susan Clausen, Janet Simon, Lee and Steve Mayronne, Llewellyn Simon 5 Fakhre Fakhre and Saidi Sowma Fakhre 6 Jennifer Graham and Jennifer Sparks 7 Emery Wood and Evelyn Johnson 8 Steve Brennan and Dr. Kevin Williams 9 Beth Swanner and Olga Koecher 10 Steve and Lee Mayronne 11 Jeanne Taylor, Michelle Knight-Lancaster and Mandy Marsala Pruitt 12 St. Frederick PTO Luau Committee 13 Wes and Claire Brockman 14 Trey and Amy Sherman 15 Jenny and BJ Pankey 16 Clint and Allison Bryant 17 Mary Beth and Michael Dickerson

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WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

Sue Paperie Now Open Downtown Ruston Welcomes Specialty Stationery Shop

LTHOUGH SUE PAPERIE HAS ONLY BEEN IN BUSINESS

for a few short months, owner Rachel Lilly Davison has already learned some lessons that will stick with her for a lifetime. “I have definitely learned to stick to my instincts, in making decisions, buying products for the store and just in general.” In fact, instincts are what helped Sue Paperie open in the first place. Upon graduating from Louisiana Tech in 2012, Rachel settled into a marketing job in Ruston. In 2014, she married and discovered there weren’t a lot of local options when it came to invitations, thank you notes and other wedding necessities. Over their Thursday lunch ritual, Rachel was discussing business opportunities with her two friends, Buffy Walker and Candee Anderson. Now, most twenty-somethings would be dining with their college co-eds but these two ladies are her former cheerleading coaches, turned mentors. In high school, Rachel lost her mother Susan in a car accident and these two took her under their wings. After more discussion, meeting and lunching, Rachel decided to open a speciality stationery shop, Sue Paperie, named after her mother. Candee said she would help her run the shop and again, guide her along her way. The store was supposed to open in the Fall of 2014, but due to building issues, permits and other delays, it was pushed back to the first Friday in February. However, there were some finishing touches that just couldn’t get done and the opening was pushed back yet again, to Monday, February 9, which turns out, was the 9-year anniversary of her mother’s accident. “I was terrified of starting my own business,” said Rachel. “I was 24 years old, had quit my job and doing something I had never done before. But I just knew that this was something that our area needed.” And those instincts have proven correct. Since Sue Paperie’s 38 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

opening in February, they have been a hit with their unique lines of invitations for all occasions, personalized stationery, notes, greeting cards, gifts and more. Some of the paper brands they carry include Crane and Company, William Arthur, Vera Wang, Haute Papier, Anna Griffin, Rosanne Beck, OddBalls and Stacy Claire Boyd. In addition to invitations from these brands, Sue Paperie also offers custom invitations for weddings or parties. Since they are a local paper boutique, they work with local graphic designers to create something that will be one-of-a-kind and sure to impress! They also carry Lilly Pulitzer, Kate Spade, Jon Hart, Boulevard Bags, Anna Griffin gifts, Eccolo leather journals, Meri Meri party supplies and so much more. “Another lesson I have learned is to listen,” Rachel laughs. “I wasn’t sure on carrying kids items, but Mrs. Candee insisted. I listened, and everyone loves our kids section!” It offers fun grab-andgo gifts from Melissa and Doug, travel coloring sets from The Piggy Story, plush animals from North American Bear Co. and lots of other creative gifts for the little ones. In addition to their unique lines and products, Sue Paperie offers a unique service as well. There is a loft in the store reserved for brides who come in to choose an invitation for their big day. “We know that a wedding is such an important day, so we don’t want brides to feel like they are making a quick decision or rushed in the middle of a busy store, so we have a private space just for them,” said Rachel. Sue Paperie allows brides to schedule appointments for the bridal loft and gives them time and advice on deciding on Save the Dates, invitations and stationery. Sue Paperie is open in the heart of downtown Ruston at 112 W. Park Avenue. Their hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

BAYOUBUZZWORTHY PAIGE OLIVER AT NAMED BANK PRESIDENT

The Bank of Oak Ridge has named a new president and chief executive, Paige Oliver. She previously served as executive VicePresident at Community Trust Bank and is a Louisiana Tech University graduate. She replaces Gene Allen, who is retiring after 40 years, including the past 32 years as president.

EUROPEAN VACATION

A group of 48 students, parents and faculty from St. Frederick High School recently traveled throughout Italy on an educational trip. The group visited Rome, Florence, Assisi, Pompeii and Venice and visited several historical places and sites.

CENTRAL STATION

Monroe Regional Airport welcomed a new restaurant, Central Station. Featuring a fresh breakfast menu as well as a selection of sliders, the Central Station opening was celebrated with HardemanCordell, Mayor Jamie Mayo, Chad Cowie, airport representatives and others.

GO RED FOR WOMEN LEADERSHIP TEAM

(L to R) Standing: David Sorrell, Cynthia Holladay, Laura Kilpatrick Marchelos, Brenda Tarver and Chris Holyfield; Co-Chair (L to R) Seated: Toni Bacon, Andi Holyfield; Co-Chair, and Missy Amy, Regional Director (Not Pictured): Aimee Buchanon, Vicki Krutzer, Dawn Erickson, Sharon McClain, Jeff Messenger, Terry Thomas

LOCAL MODEL HEADS TO NYC

THE DELHI HOSPITAL DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP

April showers not only bring May flowers, but also bring May gardens. The Delhi Hospital Diabetes Support Group gathered on April 9th to learn about bucket gardening from Master Gardener, Cynthia Warner. Each person planted their own tomato plant in a bucket to grow fresh tomatoes for the approaching summer with supplies donated by Maxwell’s Hardware Store of Delhi. The AADE Nationally Recognized Diabetes Self-Management Program at Delhi Hospital is designed to help persons gain and maintain better control of their diabetes and feel good about themselves while doing so. 40 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

We can’t say that we didn’t think Karlee Malone would make it in the fashion industry, because we knew she would. Karlee recently announced that she was signed with Wilhelmina International – one of the largest and most successful modeling agencies in the world. Congratulations, Karlee! ~ Love, Your BayouLife Fan Club

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

Try rotating. I personally use this tip! At one point I realized that there was no way Eli could play with all of his toys at one time, so I began rotating them! When I feel as though he is getting bored with his current set of toys, I swap the old toys for the “new” toys, and all is well. A few months later, I swap again. I keep the swap set of toys in the top of one of Eli’s closets. I also suggest that you cull the toys and remove any items that your child has outgrown at this time.

Organize in a way that makes clean up easier. In other words, baskets and bins will be your friend! I suggest having separate bins for each type of item – balls, stuffed animals, Barbies, toy cars and trucks, etc. You can go one step further and label each bin or basket with a picture of what goes inside, so clean up is easier.

ask erin

HELPFUL WAYS TO DEAL WITH TOY CLUTTER by Erin Sharplin Love

ake it from me, the mother of a two-year-old boy and a fourmonth-old girl, organizing toys and other paraphernalia that come with having children takes constant attention. Out of necessity, I formulated a few fun ideas to stay on top of the clutter, so it doesn’t overrun our household. As a professional organizer, I also know that I’m not the only one to face this situation! So, for those of you who could use a little help in this department, below are a few helpful ways to deal with toy clutter:

Watch your child’s habits carefully. For instance, does he love balls, but not care about Legos? What about those tiny toy characters? Analyze monthly what your child plays with and what he doesn’t. Next, make sure the items he doesn’t play with are age appropriate. If they are, separate them from those he has outgrown and store them

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in a box in the top of a closet or in the attic. If after another month he hasn’t missed anything that is inside the box, donate it to a non-profit organization. If there happens to be an item that he is too young for in the box, hold onto it to see if he will play with it as he ages.

Set some rules. For instance, I like the “one in, one out” rule for toys if you are already out of room, especially if the new toy is something the child asks for himself. Let your child choose which toy he would like to donate to make room for the new toy.

Make it fun! When it’s time to clear the clutter, make it a fun game that your child can participate in. For instance, set up a mock garage sale in your home and let your child choose what he or she would like to sell. You may even decide to trade the items for actual money that can go in the piggy bank!

Designate at least one room as toy free. If you are like me, your children have inched their way into almost every room of the house by now. Tame that clutter by designating at least one room as being toy free. If there is no other place for the toys to be stored, that should be your cue to start a donation box immediately.

Rethink the toy box. A toy box may seem like a good idea at the time, but in reality it can become a bottomless pit of unused toys. Instead, I recommend a shelving unit that holds labeled baskets and bins. Not only will playtime be easier, but so will clean up time! Once you have gained control over the toy clutter in your home, rethink what will be allowed into your home from this point on. Don’t forget to let your friends and family in on the new strategy!

Erin Sharplin Love, owner of Panache by Erin, is a Certified Fashion and Image Consultant, Professional Organizer, and Certified Wedding Coordinator whose specialties include outfit coordination and closet organization. Love has a knack for creating the perfect organized spaces that work with each client’s personality, for helping her fashion clients develop their own personal style and for helping her wedding clients create the wedding of their dreams within their budget and without the stress. Panache by Erin offers the following services – outfit coordination, personal shopping, personal color analysis, home/office organization and wedding/event coordination. To learn more, please go to www.panachebyerin.com.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

Jesus the Good Shepherd School

Providing a Well-Rounded Education

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

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In addition to the arts, the physical education curriculum at Jesus the Good Shepherd is organized and based on sound educational and neurological research. Studies prove that the more physically active schoolchildren are, the better they do academically. Participation in P.E., sports and physical activity are shown to decrease cardiovascular risk in youth, provide beneficial effects on mental health and enhance brain function and cognition. P.E. not only teaches children how to be successful in activities and sports but also how to take personal responsibility for their own health and wellness. Adding to our list of enhancement classes at JGS is our Spanish program. Studies have shown that children who learn a foreign language demonstrate certain cognitive advantages over children who do not and foreign language learning increases critical thinking skills, creativity and flexibility of mind in young children. The Accelerated Reader program, an organic school garden, as well as Computer Literacy classes which incorporate the Keyboarding Without Tears® program, and an up-to-date, well equipped library round out the enhancement aspects of a Jesus the Good Shepherd education. The importance of including enhancement classes within the curriculum is obvious to anyone who tours Jesus the Good Shepherd School. Over the years, JGS students have proven that they take the skills and confidence obtained from engaging enhancement classes and use them not only within the classroom and but also outside of school…for life. Registration for the 2015-16 school year is well under way and grades are filling up fast. In addition, the JGS Summer Camp program, which is open to PreK – Sixth grade students who are registered for the 2015-16 school year, will begin May 27th and run through July 24th. For more information, we invite you to take a guided tour of the school which take place every Tuesday at 9:00 a.m., call the school office at (318) 325-8569, or visit our website, www.jesusgoodshepherdschool.org

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

First South Farm Credit

Financing Land, Farms and Dreams

AVE YOU BEEN LOOKING FOR a quiet place in the country ?... One where you can get away from it all?... One that you can enjoy with your family and friends?... Your own weekend escape?... Do you need help in making that dream a reality? First South Farm Credit can help you with that! Spring has sprung, and if you are like the rest of us, you’ve been smitten by Spring Fever. Warm weather, lush green, flowering plants, and leafless trees are becoming dense forests again. Yep, you’ve been bitten by the same bug that we have. The great outdoors is beckoning, telling you that it is time to leave the hustle and bustle of city-life behind. It’s time to head to the country. It could be that you’re a hunter, looking for a place to call your own. Or, perhaps you are wanting that retreat where you can take the family for the weekend. Better still, maybe you’ve just decided that the time is right to make that move to the country, so your kids can grow up in the country, just like you did! When you find that place, that perfect piece of land, First South Farm Credit is the lender that can help you fulfill that dream! We are experts in this field. For nearly 80 years, generation to generation, no lender knows land financing better 46 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

than First South. We are the leading provider of financial services and land financing in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. As part of the Farm Credit System, we provide loans and financial services to farmers, ranchers and people like you, simply wanting to live a rural lifestyle. First South Farm Credit has helped maintain and improve the quality of life for farmers and rural Americans by providing competitive loans and expert financial services. We offer competitive rates and long-term financing for purchasing or refinancing real estate. When it comes to financing, we know that “one size does not fit all!” Our staff will work to find a loan package that fits your individual needs. With our years of lending experience in agriculture, it’s no wonder that First South Farm Credit is widely known as the expert in rural financing. All good businesses seek to return profits to their owners; in that respect, we’re no different. Where we are different, however, is that we are owned by our borrowers. That means when you become a borrower, you also become an owner. What does that mean? That means our profits get returned to YOU. Since 1995, we’ve distributed $279 million in patronage refunds to our borrower/owners. Our record speaks for itself. When you

borrow from First South Farm Credit, you become a member of our cooperative, which entitles you to share in our profits through our patronage refunds. Our customers own the business – that’s the cooperative way. “When we distribute our profits to our borrowers it reduces their effective cost of borrowing,” says Roger Chappell, CEO, “and it proves there are distinct financial benefits in doing business on a cooperative basis. We offer a competitive interest rate up front then return a portion of our profits back to our membership through the patronage program.” If Spring Fever has got you looking for that quiet place in the country, you need to ask yourself this question: “Does my lender send me a refund on my interest payments each year?” If your answer is “no,” then you’re probably losing money by not banking with us. We are uniquely positioned to serve the Monroe area for your convenience. Call us today at 800-955-1722 or find us online at FirstSouthLand.com.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

inne

The Unauthorized Biography of Dianne Cage Article by Michael DeVault Photography by Brad Arender

The Ark-La-Miss kitchen and gardening diva opens up about love, life and family in this no holds barred profile.With charm and grace,

Dianne Cage demonstrates why she is a Bayou Icon.

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Faulkner novel would provide little fodder for the legend that is Dianne Cage, homemaker, wife, television personality, columnist. The stories about her exploits are known from Wisner to Winnfield, and there are few anywhere in northern Louisiana who haven't at least heard the name. Just ask, and you'll immediately hear myths before truth. Larger than life, thanks in part to 30 years on KNOE-TV, she’s used to gossip and tall tales. To her credit, Dianne shrugs when it comes to the numerous stories and when she's pressed to tell "the true story." "How can you tell something that didn't happen?" she told BayouLife. "Like Chuck Ryan says, ‘No one knows for sure but you.’" But you already know the public stories--even if you don't. The real story, the true story, is more moving, more emotional and more powerful than anything you think you know. That's not to say there aren't nuggets of truth buried in the fictions that have been passed around over the years. Her children's parties on holidays and birthdays are fit for fairy tails. Known for lavish dinner parties--almost always on behalf of this charity or that civic group--she's the consummate hostess. It couldn't be that simple, though, not for Dianne Cage, a woman who once noted she's been married four times, a curious fact given she's only had two husbands. Whether she’s speaking of the tumultuous love she shared with George Snellings for 24 years or the peace, support and stability she finds in the love of her life and husband of 26 years, Dr. Mike Cage, it's evident that Dianne is a woman who holds no resentments, no animosity. At the heart of virtually every story she shares, a common thread emerges. Dianne loves family. All in, she has two children, five step children, seventeen grandchildren and a smattering of nieces and nephews. And she adores wholly Mike Cage. "You wouldn't be writing this story if it weren't for Mike Cage," she said, almost always referring to him with both Christian and surname. They married in 1989, when Dianne was at the height of her television career. By then, through Seasons of Louisiana with Dianne Snellings on KNOE, her beaming smile and soft-spoken southern drawl were a staple of living rooms and kitchens throughout the Ark-La-Miss. Seasons of Louisiana was at the vanguard of home programming.

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Before the world had Martha Stewart, Monroe had Dianne. Through curious circumstances, she had come into the lives of her viewers. She was in the midst of major life changes. She was 45 years old, and she had endured a public divorce. Her children were both at LSU, and she had savings to carry them through college, but she knew something else would have to support her. She was living in her grandmother's house when, one day at lunch, that something else turned up. "Jim Noe Jr. suggested we try to bring back Mildred Swift," she said. "But I told him I couldn't. I had horrid stage fright." Still, they filmed a test screening. Immediately after wrapping an instructional on how to make French dressing, James Noe Sr. and Hugh Roach, KNOE's owner and general manager, approached. "Hugh said to me, 'Welcome to being a star,'" she recalled. For three mornings a week, Dianne instructed her audience on the art of cooking southern cuisine, and she eventually branched out into hunting and gardening. She even occasionally had fun. "One day, I decided we weren't going to cook, and we weren't going to garden. So we went down to the river with the cameras and just threw sticks into water. We watched ducks fly by, listened to the breeze, and paid attention to the flowers and the bees." Even in speaking of a day on the Ouachita, Dianne’s graceful southern charm, playful wit and elegant demeanor seem to be masking something deeper. Underneath it all, there’s a strength that’s manifested time and again in her life, a fearlessness born of necessity. “I’m not afraid of anything,” she said, laughing confidently.

BEFORE THE WORLD HAD MARTHA STEWART, MONROE HAD DIANNE.

his fortitude first appeared at an early age, one particular summer. The King family was on the river. Daddy, Mamma, Dianne and her two younger sisters, Rebo and Wendy. Dianne was twelve at the time, and she recalls days on the river with a certain sense of nostalgia. This particular day, however, was different. “We were out in the late afternoon. We were going to go to Long John Beach, but turned instead for Delta Beach,” she recalled. That decision is where the trouble began. Long John Beach is a long, sandy swath of low-lying earth on the western bank of the river in a gentle curve. It’s a popular spot for boaters to pull up and make camp. Delta Beach, on the other hand, is a high bluff, and it requires a bit of a climb to get to the top. For Wendy, all of four, the difference between the two beaches was lost. Groggy from a nap, and with previous experience under her belt, she stepped off the boat, expecting to

land on the soft sand of Long John Beach. Instead, she was met with the splash of a cold, swift river. Before her parents had time to react, Dianne was overboard after her. “She went straight down,” Dianne said. “Without thinking, I jumped right in after her. I was twelve.” Dianne remembers the day in vivid detail, noting how the current tried to pull her away, how holding her breath hurt, and how she first saw her sister underwater. “She was floating down there like a little angel.” She pulled her sister from the river and back to the safety of the boat, and Wendy was saved. For the first time, but not the last, Dianne proved she was her sisters’ keeper. Just ten years later, tragedy would strike the King family. Only this time, instead of diving in to save the day, Dianne had to pick up the pieces. Not long after I-20 opened, her mother, Ella Mae King, was in between Ruston and Monroe when the unthinkable happened. A horrific accident on the new highway left her mother with a traumatic brain injury. In a coma and unresponsive, the outlook was

grim. “They said she wasn’t going to live,” Dianne said. Yet, to the doctors’ surprise, Ella Mae survived the immediate aftermath of the wreck. For the next nine months, Ella Mae remained in St. Francis Hospital. She was eventually transferred to long-term care facilities, though for three years, she remained mostly in a coma. When she came out, Dianne’s mother was no longer herself. Instead, she had reverted to an almost childlike state. At just 22, Dianne suddenly found herself mothering her two younger sisters, who were just 12 and 14 at the time. She had been married to George Snellings III only a short time, and she credits him and his family with the support she needed. “I couldn’t have done it without the Snellings,” she said, adding that her in-laws were by her side the whole time. “George and Mary Louise told me we could send her anywhere in the world or bring in any doctor in the world.” It was the support she needed, and it bolstered her love of her husband, George Snellings III, and his family. Though the cirWWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

once belonged to Dianne’s grandmother. “Mike Cage saved me,” she said. “Everycumstances weren’t easy, Dianne took it in “Mike says I haven’t gone very far in thing I am, I am because of him. He’s the one stride. “It was a struggle, but every day she life,” she said of her love for the Garden Disthat’s made it possible for me to do all these was here she was a blessing,” Dianne said. trict. Close to home or not, the Cages purthings.” Ella Mae remained a blessing for more than 46 chased the Mickel house in 1992 and Together, Mike and Dianne have traveled years. immediately undertook extensive renovations the world. They’ve seen Europe, virtually all Along the way, Dianne learned some and modernization. To cap off the experience, of North America, and Mexico. Meanwhile, valuable lessons. First, she learned family is Mike decided to reward his wife’s efforts with their love continues to grow. Spend a few paramount. Without her father, aunts, uncles a trip to visit friends in London. They were set minutes in the hive of activity that is their and in-laws, the trauma of suddenly finding to leave shortly after work was completed. home in the historic Garden District and it’s herself mothering two teenaged girls might With furniture in place, art on the walls clear that they worship each other. have been too much. Yet, she had that supand workers finishing a few punch list items, And about that home. Dianne said the port, and she persevered. Where others may the unthinkable happened. A have become sullen or defire sparked in the attic, and in pressed, Dianne found joy. short order, the home was enThat’s the second lesson. gulfed in flames. Firemen, “Never lose your sense of neighbors, even Dianne herself humor,” she said. “Don’t take sprung into action. “There I yourself too seriously, and was, asking, ‘Would you please never believe everything peoget my chandelier down?’” ple tell you about yourself.” As the fire slowly spread, Part of that sense of humor working in teams, they saved manifested itself more than most of the items in the home. thirty years later, when Dianne At the end of the day, the home found herself wearing a white was gutted. “There was nothwedding dress and cowboy ing left but the brick walls,” Diboots on a diving board. But anne said. In characteristic we’ll get to that soon enough. fashion, Dianne took it in Before she could wear the dress stride. Workers started demolion a diving board, she had to tion and she and Mike did the get the dress. only thing they could do. They hopped a Dianne recalled one weekday in the “YOU HAVE TO BE HAPPY, jet to London to visit the Cudd family. Spring of 1955, when she was a student AND YOU HAVE TO HAVE “When we got back from London, they alat Georgia Tucker. She was about to gradFAITH,” SHE SAID. “ANYTHING ready had the roof on.” uate the 6th Grade, which meant she When she speaks of London, of her trips would transfer to Neville High School in THAT HAPPENS, THERE’S there with Mike Cage, she lights up. In the Fall. Students graduating were taken ALWAYS SOMETHING THAT some small way, London is almost like a by bus to Neville for orientation. Sitting COULD BE WORSE.” second home, and to hear her tell it, Lonin the balcony of the auditorium, Dianne don likes Dianne almost as much as she recalls a moment...the moment. The stulikes London. constant in-and-out of visitors, ringing dent body president took the podium to adOne evening, Mike booked tickets to see phones, and whirlwind activities with the dress the incoming class. Smokey Joe’s Café on the West End. The seats grandkids is the reason Mike’s still working. He was a tall, handsome man with an were great, she recalls, and near the stage in “He says he can’t wait until Monday rolls athleticism befitting his position on the the fourth row orchestra. While they were setaround because he wants to get back to work Neville varsity football squad. While some of tling into their seats, Dianne noticed someone so he can rest,” Dianne said. her classmates were bored, Dianne was enout of the corner of her eye. She nudged her Theirs is a happy home, and that’s somethralled by the young man and immediately husband, and he confirmed what she had susthing Dianne works to make. There’s a reason developed a schoolgirl crush. “It was like pected. it’s called homemaking, after all. And when it falling in love with Roy Rogers,” she said. “It was Princess Margaret and her beaucomes to making a home, Dianne has had That young man’s name was Mike Cage. tiful, handsome entourage. Beautiful women double practice with the Glenmar house. She laughs today. “The Lord works in in jewels with hair perfectly coiffed, men in Situated on a large double lot in the heart mysterious ways,” she said. Though she had bespoke suits,” Dianne said. Not wanting of Monroe’s historic Garden District, the seen the man of her dreams, those dreams anyone else around her to miss out on a spehouse was originally designed and built for would have to wait a while. It was a feeling cial moment, Dianne turned discretely around the Mickel family on a lot Dianne’s grandshe would have again, thirty years later, when and spoke to the couple sitting behind her, a mother sold to the Mickels. Shortly after DiMike Cage asked her to dance at Cotillion. A group of Americans she had heard speaking. anne married Mike in 1989, the house went on few years later and newly single, Dianne and the market. At the time, Dianne and Mike “I told them to not look all at once, but asked Mike began dating. Eventually, he asked her were living on K Street, in the home that had if they realized who they were seated near.” to marry him. 52 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

The man smiled, and then he asked Dianne if she realized who she was seated near. He introduced himself as Eugene Habiger, commander of the United States Strategic Command, the four-star general in charge of all missiles in the U.S. arsenal. Unfazed, Dianne playfully prodded back. “’Well, do you realize who’s sitting in front of you?’ I said. ‘I’m Dianne Cage from Monroe, Louisiana, home of Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines, and I wrote a cookbook,” she said. “He got very quiet, then turned to his wife and said, ‘Barb, why haven’t you written a cookbook?’” And just like that, Dianne had made new friends for life. The couples exchanged letters and gifts for a time. Such is how it goes in the world of Dianne. Almost counter-intuitively, nearly losing a sister, the trauma suffered by her mother and a house nearly totaled by fire, all led Dianne to a font of happiness. Not only did she understand the value of good friends, neighbors and help when you need it, but she learned another valuable lesson: things are replaceable. People, not so much. It’s no surprise, then, that when it comes to possessions, Dianne bears precious few attachments. Her advice to someone who owns Grandmother’s china or Father’s favorite watch. Use them. Or in the case of a wedding dress, repurpose it. Dianne was hosting a wedding for a friend from San Antonio, and Dianne decided she would wear her wedding dress in honor. It was a weekend of activities. During a lull in the party, Dianne decided to liven things up. She donned a pair of cowboy boots, climbed onto the diving board and called for everyone’s attention. “It was kind of quiet, and I decided to wake them up a bit,” she said. Without another word, she dove into the pool. “It just seemed like a good idea at the time.” Mike Cage was impressed. “He said, ‘I love a woman whose wedding dress doubles as a bathing suit,’” she said. “Everybody thought I would drown with my cowboy boots, but I’m a very strong swimmer.” The wedding dress story goes to show how humor and making memories is inherent in the lack of sentimentality for possessions. “Things are replaceable, and they don’t make happiness,” Dianne said. Sitting by a picture window framing the fountain on her patio, Dianne watches a yellow finch frolic and considers what her life might look like if she hadn’t used an item and then lost it. What memories would she have? Her home certainly wouldn’t be the same. “Houses are to be used,” she said, and she constantly uses hers. It’s the seat of the family’s numerous gatherings, dinner parties for charities, and the place friends drop by for a cup of coffee. If Dianne isn’t in the yard, she’s in her kitchen, cooking. Use is what makes a happy home, and the Glenmar house gets used. “Greg Jordan said it has the right smell, like Rigaud Candle and fried chicken.” Most days, too, there are children running around. Between them, Mike and Dianne have a lot of grandchildren. She has some advice for parents and grandparents, too. Let the kids be kids. They enjoy playing, and those are memories they’re making. At 72, Dianne is enjoying taking time for herself. All told, she’s traveled to six continents, including more than 35 trips to London and Europe, hunted wild game in Africa and big cats in the American southwest. The author of two best-selling cookbooks and a thirty-year run as a host on KNOE haven’t jaded Dianne, who sits on the board or volunteers for numerous charities and foundations. She gives credit to Mike and to God for bringing her this far and allowing her to be herself. “You have to be happy, and you have to have faith,” she said. “Anything that happens, there’s always something that could be worse.” WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

Blend of the Bayou The Spring’s Premier Party and Fundraiser for the Arts

ULINARY ARTIST AND AUTHOR James Beard once commented that “food is theatre.” If so, the Men Who Cook for the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council’s 18th annual Blend of the Bayou are setting the stage for a superb performance on Sunday, May 3rd from 5 until 7 p.m. in a pastoral bayou-side setting on Island Drive. The menu suggests an enticing repertoire of dishes, with classics as well as jazzy innovations on an old theme. The wildly popular event centers around a wide array of delicious food and beverages prepared and served from whimsically decorated tasting tables by prominent area professionals and businessmen who generously volunteer their time and talents in support of the Arts Council’s outreach programs. Adding the finishing touches to a perfect afternoon is a group, assembled by everyone’s favorite Mason Granade, to provide upbeat live music for the event. Additional support is donated by area businesses including BancorpSouth, sponsors of the Men Who Mix, whose officers and other celebrity bartenders provide guests with their favorite libation, Community Trust Bank, sponsors of our newest addition, the Men Who Brew, a group of young professionals who are perfecting the art of home-brewing, Marsala Beverage which generously provides the beer, wine and spirits, and Coca-Cola, Cordill Propane and Lyons Specialty who provide those all-important supplies that help make the afternoon such a success. Promoting the event are our Media Sponsors: BayouLife Magazine, The Radio People, Mike Healey Productions and KTVE. Blend of the Bayou debuted in 1997 with 16 volunteer cooks and 250 guests, growing each

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year since with last year’s party including 70 cooks, bartenders and brewers serving over 800 guests. “You’ll see everyone you know there,” notes Arts Council CEO Tommy Usrey of the most enjoyable benefit of the event’s skyrocketing attendance numbers. Blend’s phenomenal success story began in 1996 with a brainstorm by Usrey and former Executive Director Dot Bassett. The two saw a similar event while in St. Louis at an arts conference and each knew instantly it would work in Northeast Louisiana with a twist and two great co-chairs, Margaret Lauve and Jan Brockman. Margaret currently co-chairs the Arts Council committee with Gregory Hudgins, and for her efforts, received the 2015 Mary Lee Milam Award for long-term service to the organization. She explains, “As we all know, food is a Louisiana artform, so we asked several of our friends, including Bob Stratton, Jim Norris, Joey Cordill, Brian Crawford and Jim Lockhart who are some of the best cooks in the region, to join us as some of the original Men Who Cook.” Usrey recalls, “The guys loved the idea, and we were off and running.” Tommy credits Blend’s success to the co-chairs and the many other volunteers who organize and set up the event, but gives a special nod to the men including Eric Maunz, Tom Graff and The Men of Rotary who are already taste testing and Larry Mullens and Kirby Price who will be serving up their famous or infamous, depending on how many you drink, New Orleans Hurricanes. “There is a sense of camaraderie among the cooks, bartenders and brewers that makes this such a special group. It’s not unusual at the end of the evening, as we’re wrapping up each year’s Blend, to hear the men discussing what they plan

to serve next year or suggesting friends to invite to cook. Folks are always asking how they can join our cooks – well, just give me a call at the Arts Council office (396-9520), and let’s talk!” Plans for Blend of the Bayou are well underway. Cooks are signing up, other volunteers and sponsors have stepped in and tickets are now on sale now at the Arts Council office, Community Trust Bank locations around the Twin Cities and, in Monroe, at The Toggery on North 18th Street and City Apothecary in the P&S Surgery Building. Tickets may be purchased for $50 per person or, you may be interested in something with a little more panache. Because of their popularity, we will once again offer area of reserved tables for our $500 Bayou Benefactors where you can entertain 8 guests . . . or . . . get 8 friends together and share the cost of a table. Why not make this a really special afternoon while making your donation to the organization that "makes the arts happen in northeast Louisiana" at the same time? Fun for you, funds for Arts Council projects! Adding some spice to the afternoon, you'll have an opportunity to acquire original artwork by some of our leading visual artists at the Bayou Gallery, so bring your checkbook and support YOUR favorite artist! Works by 25 of the area’s most prominent professional artists will on display for a silent auction during the event. Good food, good drinks, good music, good friends and great art . . . they all come together at Blend of the Bayou! Join us as we separate the “boast” from the “best” . . . the “men” from the “boys!”

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

FashionForward

Modern Heirlooms A r ma n S a rkis ya n a t H o llis & Company Jewelers article by Maré Brennan ecently, Hollis & Company Jewelers hosted Shayne Kiesbuey, vice president of sales for designer jewelry creator Arman Sarkisyan. Arman is known for his exquisite handmade jewelry that offers vintage flair with a fashion forward appeal to modern women and men. Based in Los Angeles, Arman, a young jeweler, is only 42 years old and is following in his father’s footsteps as a jewelry artisan. Arman has already won awards for his bigger sculptural pieces and is known for how well-made his jewelry is. It is no wonder that Arman Sarkisyan jewelry has become sought after by collectors across the globe.

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With striking features set off by long dark hair with youthful bangs, Shayne is the perfect jewelry model for Arman’s pieces. Today at Hollis & Company, she wears a turquoise pendant set with rose cut diamonds, clearly a stand-out offering. Several customers are gathered at the jewelry counter to hear about the craftsmanship and the stories behind each one-of-a-kind piece of Arman Sarkisyan-designed jewelry. Shayne explains that two tone pieces of 22 carat gold and oxidized silver work well with existing jewelry. She describes the pieces as “modern heirlooms,” which can be handed down from generation to generation and points to gorgeous lockets and “poison

balls” of all sizes. One of Shayne’s favorite pieces in the Arman collection available at Hollis and Company is the “Eternal Star” locket which features a large rose cut diamond in the middle of the star and a clear faceted quartz at the back of the locket so that the photo can be seen through the quartz. The design, based on old Victorian hair lockets, is at once sentimental and modern. Arman’s jewelry is created one piece at a time. Arman’s father hand carves molds from a block of silver and all stones used are natural and never enhanced for color. The processes used to create the jewelry is nothing short of intense, explains Shayne, as she describes how a golden snake is coiled meticulously around oxidized silver hoop earrings. Arman’s muse, his wife and fellow creative Louiza Babouryan, is a couture clothing designer and artist, who in turn is inspired by his jewelry creations. Shayne emphasizes that Arman also finds inspiration in the stones that make their way to his workroom. “The opal has been very popular, and Arman uses Ethiopiansourced opals,” says Shayne as she points to a string of opals in peachy/mint tones. “These stones are harder and more durable than opals sourced from say Australia which are more blue in tone.” A large Ethiopian jelly opal is set simply by Arman in a gorgeous cocktail ring. Shayne pointed out that Arman uses only the most white and dazzling rose cut diamonds. She also noted that for one of the rings Arman created, it took over a year to match cabochon emeralds in a large ring. Instrumental in securing the best contemporary jewelry designers for Hollis and Company, Jay Stephenson explains that designer jewelry like Arman Sarkisyan’s mixes well with the collection of vintage and antique jewelry that Jerry Hollis and his eponymous store is known for. Jay describes a fantastic stag necklace created by Arman which sold recently as one of his favorite pieces. Hollis and Company is the only store in Louisiana in which you can find the Arman Sarkisyan Collection. Stop by to see Hollis’ impressive selection of Arman jewelry, which include lockets, poison balls, earrings, rings, cufflinks, bracelets, bangles, beaded necklaces and handmade chains.

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Must-Have Vases 1

Vases can add a pop of color to any room or serve a more practical purpose as a vessel for Spring floral arrangements. Find these vases at area retailers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from classic to contemporary, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a style for everyone. Photography by Martin G Meyers.

1. Paul Michael Company 2. Haven

3. Paul Michael Company 4. Lincoln Outdoor Living

5. Material Things

6. Paul Michael Company 7. Sleepy Hollow Furniture

8. Lincoln Outdoor Living

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7 6

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Plated to Perfection Whether serving a delicious meal or simply for decorative accents, these beautiful plates are a staple for tabletop settings. Whether you like a classic white dish or a gold charger, these plates from area retailers are sure to dish up a good time.

Photography by Martin G Meyers.

1. Haven

2. Haven

3. Material Things

4. Lincoln Outdoor Living

5. Paul Michael Company

6. Lincoln Outdoor Living

7. Patio Place

7 6

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Spring Fabrics

Whether it is time to update winter linens, recover an heirloom piece or purchase outdoor furniture in custom upholstery, these fabrics are great for the season. From bold prints to subtle solids, these area retailers have fabrics for every household. Photography by Martin G Meyers.

1. Sleepy Hollow Furniture

4 3

2. Fabulous Fabric

3. Sleepy Hollow Furniture

4. Patio Place

5. Fabulous Fabric

6. Haven

7. Lincoln Outdoor Living

8. Haven

9. Fabulous Fabric

10. Patio Place

11. Lincoln Outdoor Living

12. Fabulous Fabric

13. Material Things

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Frame It Up Set the tone for fun family photos with frames that take their inspiration from a Lilly Pulitzer dress, a seaside retreat or a chic art gallery. Photography by Martin G Meyers.

1. Paul Michael Company

2. Haven

3. Paul Michael Company 4. Material Things

5. Lincoln Outdoor Living

6. Paul Michael Company 7. Haven

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FISHING with KENNY

The Top and Bottom of Fishing High Water by KEN N Y C OV INGTON I H AV E F I S H E D A B O U T E V E RY

scenario that an angler can encounter. I have fished through tornado warnings, hurricane aftermaths, snowfall, ice storms, you name it I have seen it and fished through it. The one situation that has given me the most problems through the years has been fishing rising or high water on our river system on the Ouachita River. Rising water or high water presents its own set of rules when it comes to bass fishing. Typically when spring rains and rising water come this time of year, it puts the bass on the move. For years it was believed and preached that on a flooded river system you had to find a bank in order to catch fish. My experience has shown me that this is not necessarily the case. Each body of water has its own personality, and the fish will act accordingly. On the Ouachita River the higher the water, the more the fish tend to congregate into smaller areas. Some might be current related, while others may relate to areas of standing cypress trees. While other schools of fish will stay in the general vicinity of where they can be caught at normal river levels. The key thing to remember is that bass in river systems have two

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things on their mind this time of year, eating and spawning. The active fish are more inclined to take advantage of the new abundance of food due to the higher water conditions are usually current related. Old road beds, ditches or anything that can create a current break can be a potentially good area. The current created by a rising water level can bring shad into newly flooded areas or it may flush out an area that has a high crawfish population. If you can find areas such as this, bass will not be far away. Fish that are more spawn minded tend to relate to harder objects, such as logs, bushes and trees, or anything that will provide them a way to move vertically in the water column as the water rises or falls. I have found that the cleaner the water you can find the better this type of scenario. Clear water is not really an alternative on a river system, but if you can find areas where the water isn’t an influx of the muddy water coming from the main river then the better your chances of finding more productive areas. I mentioned earlier that “finding a bank” on high water river systems has always been the normal response when asked about locat-

ing bass and while I don’t necessarily agree, I don’t discount it either. Levees with little current flow can be good, as well as flooded pipelines. Flooded fields have always been good areas for potential spawning fish. Try to find areas where the water stops, as this will let you pinpoint with more detail not only where the fish are you have located but where they will move to once the water starts to recede. While locating river bass can be difficult, the choice of lures to use is relatively simple. Topwaters, soft plastic jerkbaits and creature baits are popular choices. The following is a quick rundown.

TOPWATER

Prop baits, like a Devil’s Horse or Boy Howdy, are standards. I will have a popper style lure, such as a Pop N’ Image, on as well. I don’t get to hung up on lure colors as shad or bream patterns will both work. The biggest key to fishing topwater in high water areas is to fish them slow. The fish have to locate your lure and may have to swim a longer than normal distance to strike it. Patience is key.

SOFT PLASTICS

For a more subtle approach, a Texas rigged Senko is a good choice if the fish are spooky while fishing around visible cover. Flipping and pitching has always been a favorite technique in our area and a Texas rigged Brushhog or creature bait, such as a Sweet Beaver, can be good choices. When casting and covering water, a Zoom fluke has always been a popular local choice. All my soft plastic color choices will start with Watermelon/red, but at times in dirtier water, I will switch to Black neon. For current related fishing, spinnerbaits and crankbaits are very good choices. Both lures are very good search tools and will allow you to cover a lot of water. For crankbaits, I prefer crawfish schemes and a 3/8 ounce double willow bladed white/chartreuse spinnerbait is a good bet. The higher the water gets, the more possibilities there are for catching bass. However, the river can be hazardous, so be careful when navigating it when it is higher than its normal water capacity. Remember to catch one for me, and I will see you next month.

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MemoriesofMamaw

Meredith’s Musings Mention of a Southern Yankee Matriarch BY MEREDITH MCKINNIE

rs. Lorraine Eunson Gregg, Mamaw, as we called her, was a woman of distinguished elegance, class and southern grace. She was poised, sophisticated, proper and strong, yet understanding and gentle, and above all, kind. She radiated a goodness that reminded me of my roots, made me want to be better, make her proud. She deserved it, and she made me believe I did too. Though she was southern class to the core, Mamaw was unapologetically herself. Once in conversation, she mentioned how she had grown up in Wisconsin. My sister and I were appalled. “Mamaw, you’re a Yankee?” Having been transfixed by Gone With the Wind for years, a blessing for my mother who could count on our captivated attention for four hours at a time, we couldn’t imagine a more disappointing revelation, but we promised to keep her secret. Mamaw was born in 1920, the year women were given the right to vote, and how fitting for a woman so opinionated. She knew who she was, what she was, and what

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she believed. She had faith in us. She would tell me “Meredith, you’re sharp.” She told me enough that I began to believe her. Her faith in me led me to find my passion in life, and for that I’m grateful. I know that I can; Mamaw told me I could. Mamaw said I was sharp. Her favorite Bible verse was Isaiah 40:31, “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” In her own Bible, underneath the passage in her cryptic, serial killer handwriting, she had written, “Teach me, Lord, to wait.” She lacked patience, but she was aware of it; she sought it; she prayed for it. Mamaw, too, was sharp. Mamaw would let me stay the night on Saturdays. She introduced me to the Nancy Drew series. I asked her to read The Secret of the Old Clock to me one night, though it was rather late. “Read all of it, Mamaw,” I insisted. “I’ll read until you fall asleep, Meredith.” Well, the deal was made. I wasn’t going

to sleep until the book was over, and she wasn’t going to stop reading until I did. She read the entire book to me that night, all 170 some odd pages, me fighting sleep and her yawning between chapters. But we finished it, together, and we both kept our promises. Mamaw was a pretty lady, appreciated pretty things. She was always wearing her rings, vintage necklaces and bracelets, her dainty watch and freshly applied lipstick in some dramatic shade of red. And at Christmas time, without fail, she would wear a bell on a red string around her neck that jingled when she walked…jingle jangle…jingle jangle. I always knew when she was coming. Her bell was jingling. The last week before she died, right before we left for the last time, I saw Mom dig in her purse, pull out her lip gloss, and apply it to Mamaw’s lips. Having barely been able to say a word the entire visit, Mamaw rubbed her lips together and uttered, “mmmmmm….good,” and she smiled. Mom kissed her on those freshly glossed lips, and I followed. It tasted pretty. Mamaw liked pretty things. Anyone who spent any time with Mamaw knew she liked to hum. She hummed incessantly, all throughout the day, all throughout the year, and, ironically, always the same tune…Jingle Bells. I would ask her, “Mamaw, why Jingle Bells? It’s not Christmas?”…”It’s my favorite,” she’d say, and she would continue to hum. When people would hear of her passing, December 19, 2012, they would say, “Awe, and right here at Christmas too.” But I didn’t see it that way. I thought, rather, “Yes, right at Christmas, her favorite time of year, when her favorite song is being sung, when the birth of her Savior is celebrated, here at Christmas, she gets to go home. She is with God; she is with Papaw. She’s home…she’s home just in time for Christmas. And I know, somewhere, she has a smile on her face, a Christmas bell around her neck, and she is humming Jingle Bells alongside the angels.

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Blue Heron Homes The History Behind the Name

BY JAMES RENEAU

NE SPRING MORNING IN APRIL, MY DAD AND I were fishing on the Ouachita River in my home town of Monroe, Louisiana. We would go fishing as often as our schedules allowed, which had not been very much due to my advancing career in Shreveport. When we went fishing, there was always more talking than catching fish. As that morning progressed, things were quiet down the river bank. There was a lot on my mind, and I’d been dreaming of starting a home building company for quite some time. I’d been kicking around names, but had yet to settle with one. Starting a company had been a desire that originated after multiple failed attempts to find an employer with a thriving work environment. All too often, I found myself facing crazy politics and company values that weren’t in line with my own. So branding the company with a name had to mean something to me and had to be in line with how I wanted my company to capture my values. Something caught my eye as we made our way further down the river bank. It was a blue heron. Like an old friend I’d known since childhood, the blue heron always looked the same as he gracefully moved through the water. As we passed, his patience was notable while he stalked his prey. Then, all at once, he struck and caught a small fish! He was successful, because God equipped him with the tools that he needed. His patience, his keen eye and his stealth allowed him to catch the fish. We trolled on, catching a few fish of our own, and I enjoyed the rest of the day with my Dad. Later that night, I began to think about the blue heron. His qualities were one and the same with how I wanted my company to be - patient, precise, accurate, successful and one day great, just like the Great Blue Heron. With a lot of thought and prayer, Blue Heron Homes was born. 72 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

This is my vow to our clients, future employees and subcontractors. Blue Heron Homes will do its best to serve our clients in the most professional manner possible and offer the highest quality product available with in your price range, while communicating openly and honestly along the way. To our future employees, we vow to offer a place of employment that allows you to thrive as a professional and work in an environment that is healthy and enjoyable. To our subcontractors, we will always treat you fairly and support you as you support us. Together, we will be successful in this business. We understand any home builder is only as good as their subcontractors. We recognize this and will never take it for granted. Blue Heron Homes was founded in 2010 and currently has offices in Monroe and Shreveport. From each of our offices, we have a build range, up to a one hour driving distance. Our custom home program is designed to make the entire process easy and fun. We include services such as plan design, lot development and clearing, interior and selection design, financial management and consulting for bank financing. Each of our projects is assigned to one of our first class Project Managers which visit our jobs daily to ensure excellence. In addition to our custom building services, we offer real estate services through our sister company, Blue Heron Real Estate. If you list and sell your home through Blue Heron Real Estate, LLC and then build with Blue Heron Homes, you will earn a 1% listing fee rebate off of the new home project. Our people are what makes Blue Heron Homes such a great organization. We could not be successful without each and every one of them. We are happy to call Monroe, Louisiana, home for our corporate offices and look forward to future development in the community.

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PEGGY & JOYCE’S FAVORITE THINGS

Decorators have definite opinions about the home. Candles, light fixtures, artwork – these are some of the things they can’t live without. Material Things’ owners Joyce Sims and Peggy Gonzales take us through their must-haves. 2 SCONCES Anise Wall Sconces by Currey and Co. are a great way to illuminate a room

3 CANDLES Archipelago Black Forest Candle is a sophisticated, woody scent, comprised of a blend of Douglas fir, ebony wood and a subtle hint of black currant. Set the perfect mood or fill any room with this luxurious, decorative and dramatic scent.

1 SOFA The Sgt. Pepper Sofa in Bristol Gray by Regina Andrew is a traditional sofa with a sleek, modern air. It’s a perfect statement piece for any home.

7 CHANDELIER

5 PAINT

The Prophecy Chandelier by Currey and Co. is a deconstructed beauty with glass beads and chains dripping from a lustrous Viejo Gold Leaf frame.

A good tree top green is the perfect accent color for your home. But, make sure to use in moderation.

6 FARMHOUSE SINK This Gilford Farmhouse sink by Kohler blends vintage farmhouse style with modern functionality and ample space for washing and prep.

4 ARTWORK

We love New Orleans native, Elaine Gleason’s art. Her colors are vibrant and outstanding.

8 PILLOWS

The key to pulling a room together is in the pillows. Our favorite quote: Pillows are like cocktail dresses for the home...Angele Parlange. Aubusson pillows are some of our favorites.

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9 SISAL RUGS

Visit their Facebook Material Things

SANDY GIMBER’S FAVORITE THINGS

Sandy McMillan Gimber is the owner of Haven Interiors, Fine Papers & Gifts in Monroe. She is a licensed interior designer with a keen eye and knack for crisp design elements. Here are some of her favorite things: 3 THROW PILLOW The best way to pull a room together is with throw pillows. Mix and match patterns and fabrics for a modern touch. I adore this Square Feathers geometric pillow.

2 CLASSIC SOFA This classic sofa combines a modern blend of both old and new looks. The nail head trim complements the traditional design and neutral fabric.

1 FLOOR LAMP One of the best ways to illuminate a room is with a standing floor lamp like this one from Worlds Away.

4 PAINT Benjamin Moore’s French Canvas is part of their timeless and elegant Classic Colours Collection. This neutral paint is as timeless as it is forward. Great for large spaces or small, French Canvas is a staple.

6 FREESTANDING BATH The Stargaze freestanding bath by Kohler is incredibly stylish and offers a unique ergonomic design.

5 MIXED MEDIA ARTWORK Benson Cobb’s abstract artwork is a great addition to any room. Her uncompromised style and layered effects create a dreamy mood within each piece.

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7 BEDDING Matouk offers crisply designed bed linens for the contemporary home. We are drawn to these with three rows of bold, eye-catching trim.

Visit her website at www.havenmonroe.com

CHRIS ALLUMS’ FAVORITE THINGS

Chris Allums is a Monroe decorator who has years of experience. He is married to his lovely wife, Ellen, and they have four children. We asked Chris what some of must-haves for the home were and here are his answers: 2 GREAT SCENT Sydney Hale Co. makes amazing home frangrances. Some of my favorites are Lemon Shandy and Wood Smoke.

3 ADD COLOR

1 PLUMBING FIXTURE

The best way to pull a room together in by using color and embracing the things you cannot change.

The Delta Cassidy Two-Handle Wide Spread Lavatory in chrome is a favorite. It has a great vintage look with the cross-handles.

4 RUG

6 FOR THE BATHROOM

The must-have rug is any from a Mike Ackel auction. They have a great selection at the best price. Definitely the best deal in town.

I love Caldrea’s Ginger Pomelo hand soap from Material Things. It is a fresh and crisp scent that combines Aloe Vera Gel, Olive Oil and essential oils to cleanse and condition. Perfect for the guest bathroom.

7 BEST WALL COLOR 6211 Rainwashed by Sherwin Williams. It looks like the patina on an old copper pot or a bird’s egg you might find in the yard.

7 MUST-HAVE BEDDING 5 CONTEMPORARY SOFA This Belgian Track Arm Slipcovered Sofa from Restoration Hardware is a European-inspired take on a classic sofa. Low to the ground and deep in profile – you will want to jump into it.

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Cotton Rich-800-Thread Count ivory or white sheets. Anything with a high thread count that feels great to the touch. Comfortable and soft sheets are definitely a mainstay for any home.

Email him for info at ceallums@yahoo.com

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SHERRI MOWAD’S FAVORITE THINGS

Sherri Mowad graduated from Louisiana Tech with an interior design degree and started her career as the visual merchandiser at Paul Michael Company. For the last five years she has been an independent designer. These are her favorite things:

1 FAVORITE SCENT I love Fresh Bamboo from Bath & Body Works. This invigorating fusion of sweet bamboo, lush jasmine and wild grasses grounded with warm oak is perfect for a much-needed timeout and recharge.

2 PAINT COLOR

3 FAVORITE SOFA

The best wall color for this season is Benjamin Moore’s Silver Mist 1619. I love it, because sometimes it looks green, sometimes blue and sometimes gray.

I’m obsessed with this sofa from Joss & Main. Its Chesterfieldstyle tufting gives it a sleek and lovely look. It can add a pop of color to a feminine master suite or in the library for a bright take on timeless. It is classic, yet funky.

5 FAVORITE ART Again, art is tricky. There is a perfect piece for every space. One of my current favorites is a series Leah Morace painted for a project that I’m working on.

5 MUST-HAVE BEDDING Try something neutral like a white/cream coverlet, because you can always add color with pillows and rugs to spice it up. Buy pillows that are affordable, so that you can change them out when you want to freshen them up.

7 FAVORITE PLUMBING FIXTURE 4 MUST-HAVE RUGS Rugs are tricky – it all depends on the setting. My favorite rug to date is one I recently purchased for my kids’ playroom. If done right, rugs are the best way to pull a room together.

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I really like this single handle waterfall faucet from Delta. It’s important to keep plumbing fixtures timeless, because these are not things we like to replace often. Don’t get caught up in a trend.

Visit her website at www.sherrimowad.com

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MID CENTURY MUSE THE CLARKS MAKE A MOVE TO MONROE AND RENOVATE A RAMBLING RANCH IN DIY STYLE

ARTICLE BY MARÉ BRENNAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN G MEYERS STYLED BY BRANDI HOWARD AND KELLY MOORE CLARK

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ry to find a couple more suited to successfully complete a do-it-yourself home renovation – who can accomplish it in 1 month no less. That’s exactly what Kelly Moore Clark and her husband Kelly did. And yes, both husband and wife are both named Kelly, both love Crossfit workouts and both love a project that can bring them together creatively. You may recognize the name “Kelly Moore” from her line of eponymous bags, which grew out of her highly successful photography business. No stranger to renovations, the Clarks have undertaken restoration projects before, including the Kelly Moore Bag building in downtown Ruston. The couple, natives of Ruston, were itching for a change back in November of 2014. The husband wanted a new home for the young family which includes three adorable little girls, and the wife wanted a project that would include a remodel. Says Moore Clark, “My husband and I are both dreamers and very spontaneous. We decided to move on the spur of the moment. We looked at probably 20 houses, before we settled on this one in Monroe. Once we signed the papers, we jumped into the remodel and got it done in five weeks.” Talk about a whirlwind! The fact that the neighborhood was well-established with gorgeous live oaks was a draw for the family who moved from a more rural setting on 6 acres in Ruston where they raised chickens. It’s been a huge ad84 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

justment for the family, according to Moore Clark, but they love their move to Monroe as well as their children’s schools, Geneva Academy and Covenant Day School. The home they bought on the northside of Monroe had been partially renovated, but this thoroughly modern family had designs for a more open floor plan that would fit their lifestyle. “Kelly and my dad did all the work themselves on what we call the ‘World’s Fastest Remodel,’” says Moore Clark. In the once closed-in, peach-painted kitchen, two walls, including a load-bearing wall, were eliminated, opening up the kitchen to the great room and the dining room. The new kitchen island is sheathed on the backside in shiplapped pine, stained a lovely pecan color from Sherwin Williams. Moore Clark chose a white Silestone quartz for countertops with a counter-to-ceiling backsplash of traditional white subway tile with a graphic black grout for contrast. A black undermount sink punctuates the countertops and was found at Lowe’s. The rose gold Delta fixture adds pleasing, graceful movement to the space. “I love the mix of modern and old. I don’t prefer one over the other,” explains Moore Clark of her singular design aesthetic. For example, the GE refrigerator is very vintage-looking. “We went with all white appliances and found them locally at Basic,” says Moore Clark. Many appliances, like the microwave, are stored under counter to keep countertops pristine. The couple salvaged the original cabinets, but had a friend in Ruston build new Shaker-style doors. Gorgeous gold pulls, designed by Lewis Dolin,

highlight the simplicity of the cabinetry. With the elimination of a wall, a downdraft for the Jenn-Air gas stovetop had to be rerouted and is now housed within a little built-in bench along the kitchen island. Three Dot & Bo black metal pendants in an unusual shape glimmer from within as light reflects the gold inside the pendant. “I love mixing metals,” says Moore Clark, “and not apologizing for it.” MooreClark’s playful mix of high/low continues with the black chalkboard painted wall behind the refrigerator. One of Clark’s trophy deer mounts has graduated to a place of honor in the kitchen above a custom Kelly Moore Clark designed piece of furniture which was handcrafted by the homeowner’s dad, Keith Moore. The cabinet has a distinctly mid-century modern feel and is crafted from luscious black walnut and features interchangeable panels which transform the doors from white to walnut and back again at the designer’s whim. A Kitchen Aid stand mixer adds a pop of vibrant orange to the space. A small gallery wall of personal photos and mementos, including a family caricature done by a good friend who is also a pilot for O’Neal Gas, reveals the personality of this vivacious family and leads to the dining room and great room beyond. The dining room features a large black pendant light which provides light above the Moore Crafted dining table, handmade by the homeowner’s dad. Phillippe Starck’s Louis Ghost Arm Chairs in black acrylic and Eames-style DSW chairs with molded plastic seats provide chic modern seating. A large black and white cowhide rug anchors the gallery-like space. Walls throughout the home are painted a well-curated Sherwin Williams’ Pure White. Moore Clark, whose work as a photographer informs her interior design decisions, explains, “I tried so many whites, but Pure White was the one that worked in every situation.” A favorite saying of Moore Clark – “I love you, like a lot.” – became artwork when her friend, Henry, at Fine Line Art Supply in Ruston framed it amid lots of white space for emphasis. Comfortable seating and conversational areas abound in the home’s spacious living room. Moore Clark’s best friend, Brandi Howard, happens to be a stylist and helped arrange seating areas that made sense for the family, including a separate area for watching television and one for enjoying nights spent fireside. Moore-Clark found the antique mantle beam from Rustiques. Once a part of a turn-of-thecentury factory, the beam now holds a photo of the family that was taken in Moore Clark’s Smile Moore Photobooth. “It’s my favorite family photo yet, because it captures real life,” says Moore Clark, her face beaming as she surveys her beautiful family. The brick fireplace façade and built in shelving is made modern by the coat of white paint. A shag rug in a muted cream and grey pattern is topped by a brightly hued kilim. An upholstered Danish modern rocking chair and a leather club chair are brought together for easy conversation. Yellow trunk and vivid floral pillows are from CB2. The lamp on the side table between the chairs is made by Cassidy Keim, co-owner of Ruston’s Makers Union, using industrial tubing on a raw wood base with a red twisty cord. Another tribal shag rug with braided fringe

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This thoroughly modern family had designs for a more

OPEN FLOOR PLAN that would fit their lifestyle.

with hints of bright colors and grey trellis pattern grounds a light grey sectional sofa and a gunmetal grey upholstered ottoman. In the corner a wingback chair upholstered in a spring green velvet provides additional seating beneath an antique mirror sourced at Chartreuse Pear and hanging planters from Target. The family’s television tops a console from West Elm. A statement painting of a cow in Fauvist hues was found during a photography business trip to the Appalachians by the homeowner. Says Moore Clark, “I love cows and was shooting a wedding up there. I ended up shooting extra time for the wedding which ended up being enough to buy this painting from a local Appalachian art gallery. It’s folk art yet at the same time it’s modern because of the fun and funky color of the cow.” Lighting for the living room is made brighter by the addition of West Elm’s spheres at the four corners of the room. In the master bedroom a Sputnik chandelier, found on Etsy, adds a touch of mid-century glamour to the understated space. The streamlined open shelving headboard bed and an 8-drawer chest of drawers were built by Moore Clark’s grandfather and refinished for 86 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

use in the Clark’s home. Above the chest, a custom-made, Moore Crafted shelf with a white-painted beveled edge holds abstract floral paintings by Jenny Lou Art. Says Moore Clark with a wink, “I framed the floral in an over-the-top gold frame from Hobby Lobby. Who’d have thought I would be putting a gaudy gold frame on a painting for my bedroom?” During the renovation, cream carpeting in the bedrooms was changed to a soft grey. Cream and grey companion rugs in different patterns flank the bed. West Elm panels in a deep grey crushed velvet adorn the master bedroom windows. As part of the renovation, all windows throughout the home were replaced with energy efficient ones that eliminate drafts and let the sun shine in. The master bedroom walls are painted Sherwin Williams’ Crushed Ice, as is older daughter Esther’s bedroom. A large fiddleleaf fig is placed in a well-lit corner to take advantage of baths of sunlight. Above the bed, The Lord’s Prayer is painted on a large canvas in handwritten letters. Pintucked cotton bedding from Target is both chic and sustainable. Explains Moore Clark, “You don’t have to limit your style just because of your kids. You can be stylish - and practical!

Mr. Clean Magic Eraser is my friend and is great for little hands’ smudges on walls.” A staghorn fern from Parterre is mounted above a Parsons style desk. White bedside table is from West Elm, and wall-mounted lighting provides his and hers nighttime reading illumination. The two younger girls’ room is a study in simplicity. Moore Clark found the century-old, metal twin beds, which are painted blue with stenciled daisies, at Ruston’s Serendipity. Simple white linens, which are easy to bleach, keep the room light and airy. IKEA shelving provides modern storage for the girls’ colorful storybooks. Light grey linen/cotton drapery panels from West Elm hang from ceiling to floor. The Clark’s middle daughter, Chapel, was a special adopted blessing for the family. Friends of the Clarks made a special collage for Chapel before she was born, incorporating symbols throughout the artwork that symbolize circumstances surrounding about her birth. The collage rests on a chest of drawers. A hand-hooked floral rug looks super girly in saturated pinks on a light grey field. Between the little beds, a West Elm bedside table in silver holds a gourd lamp. Above each bed are framed prints of butterflies and beetles which the homeowner found online. Original doorknobs are spherical porcelain which look very modern, even today. In the girls’ bathroom, Moore Clark had her good friend and ultra-creative designer Libby Gifford hand-letter a chalk art design. “Anything you want to do, DO IT! Want to

change the world, There’s nothing to it! - Willy Wonka” – one of the family’s favorite quotes – gets special treatment at the hands of Gifford. The Clarks left the existing tile and painted the walls with black chalkboard paint. Above double sinks are round, brushed nickel mirrors from IKEA. A West Elm shower curtain with black and grey poppies on a field of white provides a pretty, soft design. The girls have their own creative nook and designated playroom at their new home as the former garage had been enclosed to create a bonus room. With concrete floors softened with fluffy area rugs, clean up is made easy.

Want the Look? For those interested in custom furnishings with a distinctly modern feel, Moore Crafted Furniture is now accepting commissions. From shelving to tables to case goods designed and built by Kelly and her dad Keith Moore, the father/daughter duo is taking orders through social media, like facebook.com/KellyMooreClark. “My mom’s dad was like a father to my dad and taught him how to make furniture,” says Moore Clark. Now you can own an heirloom piece of furniture hand-crafted and made custom for you and your home.

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21 Things A

College Student Really Wants FROM ELLIE JACKSON

Large supply of coffee Gas Cards Grocery Gift Cards Emily Ley Planner Mini-Fridge Netflix Subscription Money Phone Chargers Car kit Dry Shampoo Monogrammed anything Keurig Towels Stress-Relieving Spray Laundry Basket Workout Attire Toiletry Bag Electronic Reader Bluetooth Speaker Subscription to Birchbox School Spirit Apparel

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Tubbs and Pye

aren Denise Pye and Jessie Thomas Tubbs exchanged marriage vows on March 14, 2015, at 6:00 p.m. at Paron Baptist Church in Sterlington. Brother Wendell Sellers officiated the ceremony. Parents of the couple are Mr. and Mrs. Jerry R. Pye of Marshall, Texas and Mr. and Mrs. Gary L. Tubbs of Sterlington. Grandparents of the bride are Mrs. Virgie Boyte and the late Wilson Boyte of Ruston and Mrs. Kathleen Pye of Ruston. Grandparents of the groom are Mr. and Mrs. Donnie Garr of Calhoun, the late Glen Pritchard of Start, Mrs. Audrey Tubbs of Bastrop, and the late Roland Tubbs of Bastrop. The bride is a graduate of Sterlington High School and Louisiana Tech University with

her Bachelors of Science degree in Accounting and her Masters of Professional Accountancy. She is employed with Vantage Health Plan in Monroe and is a CPA. The groom is a graduate of Linville High School and Louisiana Technical College with Technical Diplomas in Industrial Maintenance Technology and Industrial Instrumentation Technology. He is employed with Voith in West Monroe. Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore an Alençon ivory lace dress with sparkling sequins and beading by Maggie Sottero with a fingertip lace veil. The strapless neckline of the dress was enhanced with scalloped edging with a satin ivory ribbon and brooch on the waistline. The bride carried a bouquet of ivory roses with a pendant of her late grand-

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father on the bouquet. The bride also wore a pearl necklace which was a gift from her future husband, a pearl bracelet and pearl and diamond earrings, which were both loaned from her sister. Attending the bride as matron of honor was her sister, Crystal Mathes. Bridesmaids were Michal Hale and Kelly Quakenbush, both friends of the bride. The bridesmaids wore turquoise dresses with sweetheart necklines and carried bouquets of ivory roses. Serving as the best man was the groom’s father, Gary Tubbs. Groomsmen were Barry Burch and Allen Powell, both friends of the groom. Ushers were Robert Pye, brother of the bride, and Jesse Mathes, brother-in-law of the bride. Benji Buffington was the pianist for the wedding. Renee

Boyte, aunt of the bride, was the wedding coordinator. A reception followed the wedding at the Hamilton Gallery at the Hamilton House Inn in West Monroe. Guests were treated to a buffet catered by Creative Catering. The brides’ cake was an almond and red velvet flavored three-tier cake. The grooms’ cake was a chocolate with raspberry filling duck hunting scene. Both cakes were prepared by Cindy Gal’s Baked Goods. A rehearsal dinner was hosted by the groom’s parents on the Friday before the wedding at Paron Baptist Church. After a honeymoon to the Bahamas, the couple will make their home in Sterlington. Photography provided by Kim Wilhite Photography.

Literacy Changes Everything Carmel Hill Fund Educational Program Forges Path for Children in Monroe article by Maré Brennan | photography by Martin G Meyers hen Margie Godwin and Allison Painich go to work each day, they know they are changing lives for the better. “We are not waiting for Superman to come save these kids; we are doing it right now through programs like Accelerated Reader and Accelerated Math,” smiles Godwin as she and Painich recount Carmel Hill’s triumphs since serendipity brought Godwin and the Carmel Hill Foundation, which is based in New York City, together. This amazingly productive Monroe branch of the foundation is celebrating ten years of effecting change at the most basic of areas and where it counts the most – the next generation of northeast Louisianians and their education. By the numbers, Carmel Hill Foundation’s Educational Program assistance over the past ten years to Monroe City Schools is staggering. Since 2005, The Carmel Hill Fund Education Program has gifted over $50,000 in library books to each school in the Monroe City School system. In those past ten years, the Carmel Hill Fund Educational Program (CHFEP) has given Monroe City Schools over $2,000,000 in software and technology and almost $500,000 in valuable ULM intern assistance through a program that trains and pays for future teachers and librarians to

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be placed in schools with needs. In addition, schools are given cash to use as incentive rewards for students who meet their reading and math goals. CHFEP also partners with Catholic schools in Monroe to develop strong skills for a lifetime of learning. Take a trip to any of the schools benefitting from Carmel Hill’s education enhancing programs like Accelerated Reader or Accelerated Math and you’ll see the outward pride of becoming a successful Renaissance Classroom. Congratulatory banners hang near classrooms where students have improved and achieved overall mastery of reading and/or math skills. Pride in the product of education is enhanced when Carmel Hill is involved and their contributions to technology in the classroom cannot be understated. One might ask, “How did such a wonderful program like New York-based Carmel Hill find its way to Monroe, Louisiana?” Godwin, a former school librarian, was visiting friends out-of-town and was wondering what direction her life would take in the aftermath of a family tragedy when she made a happenstance yet life changing connection to William Ruane’s amazing non-profit foundation, the Carmel Hill Fund, whose mission was to continued on page 98

“Changing the educational road traveled by all children in this country” William Ruane Founder, Carmel Hill Foundation

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continued from page 96 empower children through reading and lead them to a better life outcomes. A visit to the Carmel Hill Fund’s Harlem, New York offices solidified her zeal to continue her life’s work with reading and children and bring much needed, essential resources to the children of Monroe. In the fall of 2007, The Carmel Hill Fund and the University of Louisiana at Monroe began a very successful partnership to provide hands-on experiences for education majors as well as the opportunity to discover the intricacies of each school setting and to enrich the educational road traveled by these young students who are recommended by their professors. Under the direction of Carmel Hill’s Allison Painich, the ULM Education Major Intern, with the guidance of the librarian and classroom teacher, helps with the implementation of the Accelerated Reader and Accelerated Math programs in the capacity needed at the individual school site. Interns also assist students with integrating and utilizing technology to further enhance the effectiveness of these programs. Currently, Carmel Hill has interns Nick Sanders and Nirali Patel placed at Sallie Humble Elementary.Often these coveted and valuable internships can lead to amazing employment opportunities. Former CHFEP intern, Jesse Flunder is doing his student teaching at Lee Junior High, while former intern Robin Liner is now the librarian at Clara Hall. In addition to classroom support, Carmel Hill Foundation has sponsored student initiatives to attend artistic and educational performances presented by Twin City Ballet Company. As a reward for those who have made great achievements in Accelerated Reader during the school year, students were given the opportunity to attend the morning performance of this world-renowned dance company. World Book Day is yet another celebration of reading that is supported by Carmel Hill Foundation in Monroe. World Book Day is the largest celebration of books and reading in the world. Every year on March 4, students around the globe and especially in Monroe, Louisiana are invited to participate in the Drop Everything And Read Day. Currently, Carmel Hill Monroe partners with 23 schools - serving a total of approximately 9,100 students. For more information about their project, visit www.carmelhillmonroe.org. We all need to give a collective “Thanks” to Godwin and Painich for the groundbreaking work they are doing to ensure the next generations of Monroe’s children have the best footing possible for achieving success in life.

At Right: Former Carmel Hill intern Jesse Flunder at Lee Jr. High Below: Carmel Hill Foundation’s Allison Painich and Margie Godwin

A Brief History of Carmel Hill Fund and Its Founder:

Little Bill Ruane learned to love reading at the his grandmother’s knee in Chicago. When he grew up, Ruane created and managed the highly successful Sequoia Fund, one of the most consistently high performing investment funds on Wall Street. After achieving phenomenal business and personal success, he turned his attention to philanthropic work, which settled on working to right educational inequities in the United States. He was particularly passionate about the children that his programs impacted. Though Bill passed away in 2005, his vision still inspires the work of the Carmel Hill Foundation he founded. The Carmel Hill Foundation Education Program (CHFEP) is a nonprofit whose mission is to foster the love of reading in children by providing educators with the means to improve their students reading abilities. Reading is key to helping children achieve success beyond their circumstances, allowing children to express ideas, share experiences, and formulate a point of view. The primary focus of the CHFEP is Renaissance Learning’s Accelerated Reader “AR” and Accelerated Math programs. 98 MAY 2015 | W WW. B AYO UL IFE MAG .CO M

Above: Carmel Hill interns, Nirali Patel and Nick Sanders at Sallie Humble Elementary School

Bayou Pages

NIGHTSTANDS & COFFEE TABLES THREE BOOKS YOU HAVEN’T HEARD OF...AND WON’T BE ABLE TO STOP TALKING ABOUT RE VIEWS BY MIC HAEL DEVA ULT

e’ve all been there, in that moment somewhere between the first sentence and the bottom of that first page, standing in the bookstore, holding the corner and lost in a great book. Writers spend their entire lives chasing that moment, and yet, when they reach that goal, we’re the real winners. Sometimes, their efforts are rewarded with lasting careers and accolades. More often than not, though, they’re left to linger in obscurity, the secret lightning they’ve managed to capture in a bottle. Here are four books, each of which will leave you breathless in wonder. Tell your friends.

Funny Girl by Nick Hornby Nick Hornby is probably the most familiar name on this list. The author of About a Boy, High Fidelity, and Juliet Naked returns with Funny Girl, a novel about pursued dreams achieved. Barbara Parker is bored with her life. Barely grown, she’s one of the prettiest girls anybody knows. In 1964, she decides to take matters into her own hand and, by doing so, walk away from life as a beauty queen and resort traveler. Instead, she heads to London, where she has dreams of becoming a television star, just like her idol, Lucile Ball. Under a nom de plume, she achieves her goals, but not without some significant trials and hilarity along the way. Funny Girl is Hornby’s first book since 100 MAY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

Juliet Naked. The story is flawlessly executed under Hornby’s unique, pedestrian ease with the pen. Readers will flow from page to page, hardly realizing they’ve spent any time with Barbara and her colleagues. In the end, Hornby manages simultaneously to make you jealous of those who choose their dream and darned glad you didn’t choose so yourself.

Girl In the Dark by Anna Lindsey Imagine for a moment you have everything you always wanted. You have a successful career, you’re popular, pretty and positively mad for the love of your life. Your active lifestyle is driven by success and a desire to achieve. Then, one day, maybe it’s a late spring afternoon, you notice something. Perhaps it’s an itch. You scratch it, but it doesn’t get any better. Before long, your entire body is engulfed in debilitating pain. This is what happened to the author of Girl In the Dark, a memoir by pseudonymous Anna Lindsey. In just over three hundred pages of melodic, almost poetic prose, Lindsey constructs a version of her world controlled by pain, cloistered away in absolute darkness. During the worst moments, she’s at the center of her apartment, hiding from even the tiniest flicker of light. Then, as the pain subsides and the condition eases, she can venture out briefly in the early morning or late evening. What she sees, what she shares

with the reader, is a picture of profound, unspeakable beauty.

All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr In 1936, as Germany was preparing for war, her people were working toward an ideal of intellectual and racial purity. For two young German foster children, Werner and Jutta, war is a distant concept. Instead, Werner’s gift for electrical circuitry has delivered to him and his foster family the gift of knowledge—from across the globe. In Paris, young Marie-Laure is facing life in the dark. Robbed of sight by disease, MarieLaure relies heavily on her father, a museum curator. As the Nazis approach, though, the family must flee to the French coast, to a life as refugees. All is lost for Marie-Laure when her father goes mysteriously missing. Only through hope and the mysterious connections of radio broadcasts do the paths of Werner, Jutta and MarieLaure collide. Set against the backdrop of unspeakable tragedy, Doerr casts this unlikely group of hopeful youth on a journey of discovery. There is a shade of David Mitchell in the novel’s gently shifting time line and alternating settings, and Thorton Wilder would be impressed at the young author’s mastery of point of view. All the Light We Cannot See was a runner-up for the National Book Award.

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Across the pond, the English have perfected the art of the English garden (think, “I woke up like this” in gardening terms) and have a knack for creating ethereal, extremely naturalistic arrangements of utilizing cut flowers found growing in their dreamy landscapes. BayouLife asked two of Monroe’s floral gurus to channel their innermost Englishman for a pair of arrangements worthy of welcoming home a Royal baby or celebrating the Queen Mum.

In a low ram’s head urn, Nick McKinney loosely arranges flowers from his own garden, including yellow and purple bearded iris, arching branches of spirea heavily laden with clusters of white flowers, branches of blooming azaleas in shades of coral and hot pink, creamy white mock orange blossoms, and heavenly-scented antique roses in a fuschia tone. Wild grasses and spiderwort are interspersed throughout to give the arrangement its naturalistic charm. The end result is an English cottage garden with all its wildness and unencumbered enthusiasm tucked neatly into a stately urn. Photography by Martin G Meyers 102 MAY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

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Gregory Hudgins created this unbound arrangement in the English tradition using spears of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), just-bursting open pods of wild garlic (Allium canadense L.), the delicate blossoms of the China rose (Rosa chinensis), ranging in tone from soft to vibrant pink, and exuberant red clover (Trifolim pratense). His inspirations for this particular arrangement included alluvial woodlands, hedged thickets, expansive meadows and warm Spring afternoons.

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MOTHERS

& DAUGHTERS

Ellie and Kelly Jackson don this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best mother/daughter looks from area boutiques. From simple tees to luxurious linens, these outfits are perfectly suited for Spring and Summer. Hair and Makeup by Rain the Salon and Day Spa Photography by Brad Arender

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E R I N â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S AT T I C Ellie looks boho-chic in this flirty babydoll dress. Featuring a lightweight fabric and color-block scheme separated by a peek-aboo lace seam, this dress is perfect for summer nights. Add a funky, fringed sandal for a more casual look. Kelly is on-trend with these coral wide-leg palazzo pants. This kimono-style top and strappy heel completes the outfit.

M O O DY B L U E S BOUTIQUE Kelly looks gorgeous in this white boxy, v-neck hi lo top paired with slim leggings with a cool crosshatch print and cork wedges. Ellieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flowy maxi dress features side slits with a built-in bandeau and tie waist. We love this look for a date night or a day at the beach.

MR. P’S TEES Mr. P’s Tees has a shirt design for everyone. Grab a tee for mom this Mother’s Day in a great print like this super cute magnolia design featured on an indigo blue v-neck tee. Two gifts in one: a graduation gift doubles as a 15% donation of sale to Pilots for Patients. Fly high with these great tees.

ROSE BOUTIQUE This FLAX Simplicity dress in vibrant red is the perfect choice for a sleeveless sun dress. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a simple shift with a bit of fitted charm provided by a few buttons in the back. Kelly is wearing FLAX Floods and Florist Cardi in Ocean Blue paired with a gorgeous apricot-colored boxy tank.

Material Things

New Lines by Regina Andrew, Gorky Pottery and More

BY PEGGY GONZALES

HIS SPRING MARKS OUR ONE year anniversary at our new location at 2305 Forsythe Avenue, Monroe. This not only has been a great first year, but a growing experience as well. We are glad to introduce a new lines for us at Material Things. Regina Andrew artfully mixes modern design with vintage inspiration, with custom upholstered furniture that is crafted in North Carolina using hand-selected designer fabric, premium materials and superior spring construction. There are hundreds of luxurious fabric choices, colors and finish options to redefine your home. Pictured here is Regina Andrew’s Sgt. Pepper sofa, upholstered in Bristol charcoal velvet. Another fine dimension of this line is lacquerware. Ranging from inlaid hand carved animal skin patterns to smooth, richly textured surfaces. Passed down from generation to generation lacquerware is a highly regarded art

form. Master craftsmen achieve this finish by applying over 12 natural lacquerware layers, then hand water-polishing to achieve smooth, deeply rich tones, as is shown here by Regina Andrew’s urbane console. We have added more choices for lighting, including Regina Andrew lighting to include table lamps, task lamps (pictured here is the crystal base dome task lamp), panel sconces and chandeliers. Another area that has been expanded is our tableware section, to include Gorky Pottery. Gorky Gonzalez, founder and artistic director’s main interest has been to rescue and preserve the traditional majolica pottery technique of Guanajuato, Mexico. His efforts have garnered him numerous awards, including the Mexican National Award. All of the pieces are handmade and hand painted; no decals or mass production techniques are used. Each piece is certified food safe and all glazes are

lead and cadmium free. Among the most popular series is The Animal Collection, featuring fanciful birds, squirrels, roosters and deer. Serving pieces are available, as well as 4-pc. place settings. A popular gift-giving item from this company are their Holy Water fonts and large saint plates (for hanging). This is just one example of this beautiful pottery is also available in the European Collection, Flower Collection, Blue and White Collection and more. Last, but not least, our special order fabric and custom workroom department continues to grow. If you are needing new draperies, bedding or pillows, come by and browse our extensive library of fabric books. We offer in-home consultations. To celebrate our one year anniversary on Forsythe Ave., and in honor or Mother’s Day, we would like to offer 10% off all Gorky Pottery, both in-stock and special order, and 10% off all in-stock Regina Andrew furniture and lighting. Joyce and I would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers for making our transition to Forsythe Avenue a good one. If you haven’t been in our shop, please come in and see what you have been missing.

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LACEY STINSON P O R T R A I T S

O F

M O T H E R H O O D

article by MARY NAPOLI & photography by MARTIN G MEYERS "IT IS ONE OF MY EARLIEST MEMORIES...that my mother made a specific place to put my artwork up in the living room on display--not on the refrigerator. It was the first time I remember seeing my work hanging up as if it were something special." Artist Lacey Stinson is reminded of his own childhood memories as he works on his current series, a project he has entitled "Mothering." Stinson, a distinctively talented local artist who is known for his fine hand and dreamy aesthetic, is creating art from a different perspective in life--from the very first moments. “Mothering" is the result of Stinson's dear friendship with Rebecca Honeycutt, a mother of four and student of midwifery. The two connected through their mutual friend, phenomenal local artist Caroline Youngblood, and were introduced at one of Youngblood's shows. Honeycutt has been a student of midwifery since the 1990s and pursued her profession at different levels throughout the years. So far, she has delivered 21 babies and attended over 80 births. Honeycutt views childbirth as a beautiful and definitive life experience for the entire family and enjoys following mothers through the prenatal process. Honeycutt's passion for her work inspired Stinson, who excels at portraiture and figurative work, to capture the physical beauty of an expectant mother through his "from life" drawings.

Stinson creates these breathtaking works of art by studying the mother-to-be in a setting that is meaningful and comfortable. His "from life" approach means that the figures as literally sketched out as they sit before the artist--in real life and actual time, rather than from a photograph. Stinson is passionate about this method and feels that it is necessary in order to capture the true essence of the mother, who can be featured alone or interacting with her family or children, at that fleeting moment in time. "I really like working "from life"....I have to be really quick, because things shift fast – especially when there is a baby or a child in the setting. Capturing a feeling, or the sentiment of what you are looking at, has to be done very quickly because I am not telling them to pose. They are natural and moving around," explains Stinson. "I have to gain an understanding of the baby and mother--the size, the relationship, the way they move together, the expressions on faces-and still be able to draw something that is representative of her in that moment. It is not just drawing from what I'm seeing; it's from what I am understanding." Stinson sketches continuously during these sessions, which can last a few hours at a time. At times, multiple sittings with the subjects are necessary. This was the case with one of Stinson's most amazing drawings in the “Mothering” series which involved

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one of Honeycutt's clients who happened to be near her delivery date at the same time as her beloved mare was due to give birth. The mother-to-be sought out Stinson's talents to create a work of art that featured her and the mare. This project took Stinson and Honeycutt to the mother's family farm near Mangham. Led by the pregnant mother and mare, the artist and midwife followed them through a wooded area until the mother stopped to rest on a fallen tree. Stinson new instantly this was to be the setting of their portrait. 114 MAY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

The finished product evolved over the four different sittings between the subjects and the artist. Stinson's drawings are breathtakingly detailed, and beckon the viewer to examine and analyze the endless amount of fine markings that compose the final image. The drawing of the pregnant woman and horse is so incredibly intricate, it seems to come to life before the viewer's very eyes. One can practically feel the textures and depth that Stinson has so expertly represented. His talent for shading is astounding, as are the beautifully placed abstract lines he includes to bring energy, life and a surreal quality to the artwork. Stinson becomes so intensely immersed in the process, that he becomes as much a storyteller as an artist in his endeavor to communicate the moment through his pencil. "It (drawing) is a kind of language at some point," reveals Stinson regarding his artistic process. "When you are telling a story, language doesn't allow you to tell the absolute truth. There are only so many ways that words can be put together. Stories choose what they reveal, and stories get lost in the details. With line and shading, I am hiding some things and getting you to focus on other things. I may tell the story of the horse twelve different ways. Each time I tell the story, it may not be enough, so I go back to develop it. Each time, I tell the story with new lines; these lines and my eraser interact to form a new story. Each new mark is a new part of the story. " All the separate stories interact to become indistinguishable and form a comprehensive story-- the finished product. "When I drew the belly of this pregnant mare, I may have drawn it twelve different ways that are all on top of each other, and each is drawn from a different point of view. When all of those add up, you get a really nice idea of something that can live in your imagination," he says. Stinson's talent for drawing is astonishing, but he is equally as gifted at other artistic mediums. From as early as 3 or 4 years old, he was able to naturally draw and paint objects the way he saw them--three dimensionally--rather than the traditional methods of simplistic lines and flat shapes that small children most often employ. These were the early stages of Stinson's figurative and portrait work, which would develop later. As he matured, he became equally as fascinated with science and the supernatural as he was with art, and was as influenced by Carl Sagan as Salvador Dali. He combined these interests by infusing his artwork with a celestial, metaphysical influence. Some of Stinson's early works are visions of other-worldly creatures, fictitious worlds or landscapes set in outer space. His talents evolved throughout his time at university and in graduate school at Louisiana Tech, when he began to experiment with large scale abstract paintings and shadowy landscapes. The landscapes, in particular, have become popular with local collectors and admirers of Stinson's work. Saturated with color, these moody landscapes are infused with a transcendental quality that is uniquely his own. When preparing to create these works, he applies the same concentrated level of poetic creativity and thoughtful perspective.

"When I would work on landscapes, I would be driving along and something about a scene would strike me and I would think. That is beautiful--wouldn't it be great to paint?' Then I would pull over and stop, and it changed. When you are moving, you are seeing things three-dimensionally, and all these things are going on in your head, but you have to stop. Then you are limited to the two perspectives of your own eyes, and suddenly, parts of it flatten out and don't strike you the same way. And I think, it doesn't quite grab me--what's changed? And itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because when you are moving around, you are building up an idea of what you are with. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the same reason I don't like working from photographs. They are flat and small. When I work from life, I can see things move around, see things in different lighting conditions, and I get a better idea of what I need to focus on," says Stinson. Stinson's abilities are remarkably outstanding, no matter the medium in which he chooses to work. His "Mothering" series brilliantly exhibits the fleeting moments that a mother treasures before her baby arrives in a way that is much more meaningful and alive than a mere photograph. It is both a challenge and a joy for Stinson to actively capture these significant milestones in motherhood, and somewhat surreal for him to imagine that these works will remain precious to generations that belong to the future. Lacey Stinson is available for commissioned artwork or portraits of all kinds. View a more complete body of work on his website, www.laceystinson.com or contact the artist at 318-201-7710.

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Rollinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on the River

Once again, it was an evening of fun in true southern style at the River Oaks auction held on February 20th. Rollinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on the River boasted a live and silent auction included class projects, vacations, skeet shoots, beauty and pampering packages, golf outings and a bayou dinner cruise. Guests danced the night away to the Rockin Dopsie Jr. and the Zydeco Twisters and enjoyed melt-in-yourmouth southern cuisine by the Fish House. A sincere thank you to the River Oaks teachers, staff, parents, alumni, grandparents and generous community for making the night an evening of southern tradition and success.

On the BayouScene

1 Meghan Turpin, Melissa and John Saye 2 Tina Koonce and Tenesha Lain 3 Dr. Gary Stanley 4 Don and Catherine Legg 5 Alpa and Dr. Jeet Patel 6 Randy and Jennifer Windham with Laura and Wayne Horton 7 Deirdre Simmons, Stacy Austin, Karen Traxler and Allison Austin

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Revision Breast Augmentation Getting You the Results You Desire

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

INCE I STARTED MY PRACTICE IN 1990, I HAVE DONE over 1,600 breast augmentations. It is certainly one of the most common procedures I perform. While things go very smoothly and the results are predictably good in the vast majority of my patients, occasionally, issues arise that require surgical revision. My revision rate for breast augmentation is less than 5%. Usually these issues are minor – elevating the fold beneath one breast for better symmetry, additional muscle release on one side or the other to allow the implant to settle naturally or perhaps a change in implant size. Although revision of my own cases is relatively rare, I frequently have patients referred to me for revision of breast augmentations done elsewhere. While some surgeons wince at the idea of fixing a problem they didn’t create, I find these cases not only challenging, but also at times extremely satisfying. In contrast to my own revisions, these patients generally do not have minor issues. Each patient presents a unique surgical challenge requiring flexibility, creativity and judgment. Over the past 24 years, I have seen everything from implant malposition, to rock hard, deformed breasts, to gross asymmetry, to ruptured implants with extruded silicone. The solution may require switching to an anatomic, cohesive gel implant (“gummi bear”), using an implant with a different size or shape, moving the implant to a new pocket above or below the muscle, removing excess skin, performing a breast lift or all of the above. Of the breast revision cases that I do, the overwhelming majority had their initial surgery done somewhere else. A major revision is always more difficult than the initial procedure. Giving the patient an honest assessment of the situation and a realistic idea of what can and can’t be accomplished is paramount and is the product of years of experience. It has been my privilege over the past 24 years to earn the confidence of countless satisfied patients and the respect of scores of referring physicians who have entrusted me with their friends, relatives and patients who need surgical revision of breast procedures initially done elsewhere. Of course, I would rather do their initial procedure. But if this isn’t the case, I will do my best to work with their unique circumstances to give them the result they desire. My new website will have an entire section on revision breast surgery. I invite you to visit www.mickelplasticsurgery.com and see for yourself the dramatic effect this can have on properly selected patients. If you or someone you know would like to discuss revision of a previously done breast procedure, call Mickel Plastic Surgery at (318) 3882050 to arrange a consultation. WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

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Cookie Dough With a Purpose Pine Valley Foods Announces A New Partnership With St. Jude’s

Pine Valley Foods, a nationally recognized cookie dough manufacturer and developer of fundraising campaigns for students all over the United States, has announced a new partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® called “Cookie Dough with Purpose.” The initiative aims to raise $100,000 for St. Jude. Pine Valley Foods’ products are sold primarily through product fundraising channels whereby groups of students sell the products to supporters as part of a specific fundraising effort. This new partnership will allow students to continue fundraising for their local needs while also raising money to support children at St. Jude. “We help kids raise money all over the United States and have so for years,” states Pine Valley Foods’ CEO Joseph Giildenzopf, “This new initiative with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital allows us to not only continue to help kids raise money for local needs but also give something back to kids fighting cancer.” Pine

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Valley Foods estimates it has helped groups all over the United States raise over $500 million dollars since its founding in 1998. September is traditionally one of the busiest months for school fundraising, and September also happens to be Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. This initiative is the perfect opportunity to leverage and maximize each organization’s key focus areas during this time to raise awareness and funds for St. Jude. It is because of programs like this that no family ever receives a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food, and families can focus on what matters most – helping their child live. “Cookie Dough with Purpose” is similar to other school fundraisers, where students and parents ask friends and family to support their efforts by purchasing cookie dough products and a portion of the proceeds remains with the local group. Cookie Dough with Purpose takes it a step further and gives kids an opportunity

to impact the lives of other kids because $1 from every tub of cookie dough sold will be sent directly to St. Jude. “This program truly is designed for kids to help other kids who are fighting childhood cancer,” states Mr. Giildenzopf. Participating in this new partnership can occur in two ways. First, anyone can support St. Jude and the fight against childhood cancer by purchasing St. Jude branded cookie dough products found online at http://www.pinevalleyfoods.com/product/st-jude-cookie-dough/. Second, any student group with a fundraising need can participate in the Cookie Dough with Purpose fundraising program by contacting Pine Valley Foods through a special web page located at http://www.pinevalleyfoods.com/stjude.

Cardiac Rehabilitation at Community Health Center

Heart Attack Brings Change

BY AMY GREEN, 44 YEARS OLD

N DECEMBER, 2014, I WEIGHED 256, smoked a pack of cigarettes daily and ate unhealthy foods. I was at my desk and suddenly felt like something grabbed my heart and would not let it beat. I got up, went to the water fountain and returned to my seat. The heart palpitations stopped. Fifteen minutes passed, and suddenly I felt like I couldn’t breathe, along with intense nausea. I asked our receptionist to call 911. Paramedics arrived quickly, and an initial EKG indicated I was having a heart attack. The paramedic asked me how long I experienced symptoms before calling, and I replied "20 to 30 minutes.” He asked why I didn’t call sooner, and I responded, "I didn’t think I was having a heart attack." All I could think about was God, my three boys, my

husband and my mother. I asked the Lord to please not take me now, because I needed to get right with Him, and my boys needed me. I was scared that I might not see my family again. At St. Francis Medical Center, I had angioplasty and stents placed into my right coronary artery that was blocked 99 percent. As a patient, nurses and doctors expressed to me the importance of making diet changes, exercising regularly and not smoking. After discharge, the reality of surviving a heart attack stayed on my mind. I had many questions about preventing future heart problems. My cardiologist, Dr. David Homan, recommended rehab, so I began St. Francis Cardiac Rehab three days a week at St. Francis Community Health Center. I worried that

Lydia Swillie, RN; Amy Green; and Donna Blackett, RN

walking on a treadmill could trigger another attack. The nurses assured me that exercise would benefit my heart tremendously. They were so right! I became stronger, physically and mentally. I met people in similar situations which helped me so much. I thank God for the people He placed in my life and for giving me a second chance. I graduated from St. Francis Cardiac Rehab in April. I lost 52 pounds, my husband lost 21, and I have been smoke free since December. Words cannot fully express thanks to everyone at St. Francis Medical Center and St. Francis Cardiac Rehab for helping me understand the importance of a healthy diet and exercise. I made new friends during recovery and will keep everyone close to my heart on my path to a brighter future.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

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The Phoenix Project

Raising Up Geneva Academy’s Playground from the Ashes

ENEVA ACADEMY IS THANKFUL to the Lord Jesus for the blessing and generosity of the Monroe community. The story of the Geneva playground is not a big story, but it is a rich story full of kindness and magnanimity. The vision of Geneva Academy is to train up wise servant-leaders to help transform our city, and through these past months it has been encouraging to see so much good in Monroe. After months of work by parent and student volunteers, Geneva built its first playground just last summer. The playground pieces themselves were donated by a local church and a local school. Kids always find a game to play, even without playground equipment--necessity being the mother of invention--but once our playground was up, they were proud of their work and having a blast.

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This past January that playground was burned to the ground by juvenile arsonists. The students asked, “Why would someone do this?” But the children never seemed angry or bitter. This was an opportunity to remind them that sin is in every heart and that we are forgiven sinners. What we needed to do was to pray for these culprits and to grant them forgiveness. Once the story was told through the local media, we received hundreds of notes of encouragement and numerous financial donations to help us rebuild. One check came with a note reminding us that there are still good people around. We heard from many of those people in the months that followed. We were thankful that our insurance company handled our claim well. Once it was settled and the new equipment was agreed upon, it took three short days to complete.

Through gifts and insurance the playground is now bigger and better than the original. The children are overjoyed and having so much fun now that they don’t want to leave school! On Thursday, April 23, we had a ribbon cutting and offered a prayer of thanks to the Lord who supplies all our needs, especially when those “needs” are for the joy of His children. We thank the Lord for the kindness of His people in Monroe and are reminded of Jesus’ words, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” We pray that as Monroe has given to us, so too, the Lord would bless Monroe.

Fabulous Fabric

Sunbrella Offers Durable and Stylish Options for All Your Fabric Needs

T’S DURABLE, IT’S BEAUTIFUL AND worry-free… Sunbrella is here! Fabulous Fabric, located at 1803 Lamy Lane in Monroe is known for their selection of high-quality fabrics ranging from every color and pattern imaginable. This year, spruce up your outdoor space with Sunbrella, providing outdoor living at it’s finest. Fabulous Fabric stocks the largest selection of Sunbrella Fabric in north Louisiana. This high-performance outdoor fabric is fade resistant, easily cleaned and suitable for any environment.

Sunbrella is the ideal fabric for: • Poolside • Outdoor kitchens

• Patio spaces • and more!

Fabric selections include over 100 options. Sunbrella fabrics range from solids to stripes to patterns. Designer’s Tip: Try coordinating you indoor rooms with you outdoor spaces for a seamless look. Now you can enjoy your home and your patio this summer without worrying about things like children, pets and the occasional spilled wine glass. This ultra durable fabric can be cleaned easily with soap and water. You can even clean it with bleach, if necessary. The friendly and helpful staff of Fabu-

lous Fabrics wishes to invite you to come by and browse their selection of Sunbrella products. Take a look at their beautiful drapery as well as upholstery fabrics.

Fabulous Fabrics also offers: • Custom-made items such as pillows, furniture and more • Drapery hardware – vast selection • Sydney Hale Co. candles and room spray

Shipments are arriving daily. Get your home ready for entertaining… Summer is here! Fabulous Fabric is located at 1803 Lamy Lane in Monroe. Find them on facebook to stay up-to-date on sales, new shipments and view their merchandise. 318-410-8106.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

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MedCamps on the Greens

Second Annual Event Slated for Monday, May 18th at Squire Creek

BY JULIANNE TIPPEN, MISS SPIRIT OF RUSTON

ACH YEAR, OVER 11 MILLION CHILDREN ATTEND summer camps where they develop self-confidence, social skills and good work habits in a safe and fun environment. Unfortunately, most summer camps do not have the available resources for children with chronic illnesses and disabilities. These children are faced with enough challenges on a daily basis, but missing the opportunity to attend summer camp should not be one of them. For the past twenty-seven years, MedCamps of Louisiana has provided a unique opportunity for this special segment of our society. Through a series of one-week, fun-filled camps, MedCamps of Louisiana provides summer camp free of charge for children facing physical and mental disabilities. Each camp is designed specifically for a particular type of disability, and it includes appropriate health professionals and specially trained staff. The focus is on what campers can do, and all campers are encouraged to reach their full potential. After working with MedCamps for the past three summers, I have seen the benefits of this program first-hand. Because I feel so strongly

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about the organization and opportunities it provides for over 3,500 Louisiana children, I have implemented MedCamps of Louisiana as my platform for the Miss Louisiana Organization. Silas Beech, the very first camper I met, greatly influenced my commitment to this organization, because he truly embodies its philosophies and spirit. Because this young boy won me over with his sense of humor and kindness, I knew that I wanted to share with others how MedCamps has provided a safe, caring environment for Silas and other kids throughout the state. I encourage others to volunteer with this wonderful organization and to donate generously. As Miss Spirit of Ruston, I have organized the second annual MedCamps on the Greens golf tournament, which will give more special needs children an opportunity to experience summer camp. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event will be held on Monday, May 18th at Squire Creek Country Club in Choudrant. Register online at medcamps2015.ezregister.com or email juliannetippen@gmail.com for more information.

Cutting Edge Technology... Right Here at Home

Morehouse General Hospital Sets the Bar High for State-of-the-Art Technology and Care in Northeast Louisiana and Southeast Arkansas

OREHOUSE GENERAL HOSPITAL is the regional center for healthcare in northeast Louisiana and southeast Arkansas. Our experienced staff, convenient hours and state-of-the-art technology continue to give Morehouse General Hospital the cutting edge over other healthcare facilities when considering an endoscopic procedure. When looking at what sets us apart from the rest, we routinely use technology that other hospitals in the area aren't offering. Morehouse General Hospital is one of the first hospitals in our area to use hi-definition equipment and carbon dioxide insufflation for endoscopy. Compared with conventional equipment, hi-def endoscopy provides doctors with sharper images and better contrast to more accurately diagnose diseases of the

upper and lower gastrointestinal tract. Studies have shown that the use of carbon dioxide in these procedures is absorbed by the body 150 times faster than regular air and decreases the discomfort that patients feel during and after the procedure. At Morehouse General Hospital we routinely use moderate sedation, rather than traditional sedation, for endoscopy which can result in considerable cost savings to the patient, improved recovery times and decreased nausea. The majority of patients, who are otherwise healthy, will qualify for moderate sedation. At Morehouse General Hospital, moderate sedation is administered by a board certified gastroenterologist who is trained in moderate sedation; rather than a CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) or an

anesthesiologist which are routinely used in most hospitals for this procedure. As a result of these advances in technology being provided at Morehouse General Hospital, our patients can expect to see improved accuracy in diagnoses, experience shorter procedure times and incur significant cost savings. Ask your doctor about your risk factors and if you need a colonoscopy. Call 318.283.2177 for more information. Morehouse General Hospital accepts Medicaid, Medicare and most private insurance.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

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Kingsland Ranch With all natural, grass-raised and grain-finished stock, Kingsland Ranch is quickly establishing itself as the go-to source for premium quality beef. From steaks to ground chuck, Kingsland Ranch provides for all of your BayouEats needs.

Article by MICHAEL DEVAULT Photography by MARTIN G MEYERS

n 850 pastoral acres of land situated on Cheniere Drew Road, 160 head of cattle graze under the watchful eyes of David King. He knows each cow and, more importantly, each cow’s lineage. “We’re always adding to the herd,” he tells BayouLife of the operation at Kingsland Ranch, the working cattle ranch owned by his father, Dr. Terry King. For David, cattle is in his blood. “My father grew up on a ranch when he was younger, and he wanted to be a rancher,” said David. “So he started with 70 acres. This just grew up from there.” Over the years, the Kings have added parcels of land as they came available. Terry lives on the property in a sprawling, columned home perched atop a hill overlooking the valley below. David lives nearby, too, in a spacious ranch home overlooking another valley. He works the ranch, managing the herd and overseeing breeding, an important facet of life on Kingsland. This is, after all, a producing cattle ranch. Every couple of weeks, David selects animals from the herd that are ready for slaughter. They’re then processed at a packing facility in Calhoun, yielding steaks, roasts and hamburger meat, just to name a few products. For those surprised to find a working cattle ranch in northeastern Louisiana, David has some insight. “Louisiana has a good product in anything— if you know where to find it,” he says. For beef, look no further than Kingsland. The Kingsland herd is grass fed and finished on grain. Each animal is reared without hormones or antibiotics, an important note in the industrialized world of food production, where some meat products are forced to grow too fast. That’s definitely not the case at Kingsland, and with good reason. “You can absolutely taste the difference in our steaks,” David said. One Tuesday morning in April, David and his step-brother, Jay Yates, have the grill going. Atop the grill sizzles a pair of 14-oz. ribeyes, a couple of burgers and two bone-in ribeyes, weighing more than a pound each. Each steak cooks up perfectly to medium

rare and provides a succulent, tender experience that is remarkable from the first bite. There’s no working for flavor in Kingsland beef. It’s full of umami, that elusive, savory flavor that much beef lacks today. That’s due as much to the breeding as it is to the grass feeding and grain finishing of the cattle, according to David. “We’ve found the right combination for perfect marbling,” David reveals. Each animal is the product of as close to perfect matches as you can get, with analyses prepared on each animal’s genetic makeup and other, less easy to assess factors. “Used to be, you’d look at the animal, how it behaved, how much it weighed,” David says. That’s not the case today, where computers and technology come into play. “You look at their IMF—intramuscular fat content—on the animal when you buy one. You can gather so much information now.”

them go the knives. With precious little effort, the blade sinks through the meat and meets the plate with a quiet scrape. Juicy isn’t the right adjective to describe a Kingsland steak, as it conjures the wrong image. Instead, moist is a better word. That’s due in large part to what happens to the animal after slaughter. “We try to age it a little more,” David says. First, the animal is hung at the Calhoun facility for 14 days. It’s then processed into the various products and placed into packages. David says that’s where the Kingsland products’ popularity has created a challenge. “We would like to age it in the package another 7 days, but demand is high,” says Jay. “So sometimes, we don’t get to do that.” If anything, this inability to keep a product on the shelf for the full 21-day aging process is a testimony to the quality of Kingsland beef. Even the burgers are spectacular, and again, a major difference between massproduced industrial beef pops up. Where “grocery store” ground beef can feel mealy on the palate, Kingsland beef is smooth, with a rich, bold flavor that immediately causes you to raise your eyebrows and go in for another bite. Yet again, this difference comes down to the Kingsland experience. Breeding meets rearing meets processing. It’s hard to argue with the result of their efforts. Kingsland raises three breeds of cattle and crosses them to make their product. At any given moment, the herd is some combination of Red Brangus, Hereford and Angus. They slaughter just 24-45 per year, but to help meet demand, they have partnered with four other ranches across the state to supplement their supply. Each of those ranches follows identical breeding and feeding routines to ensure quality across the brand. But quality is just part of the perfect steak. Eventually, you have to cook it. And both Jay and David have some pointers. First, there’s that age thing. Jay says don’t be afraid to keep a steak for a few days. Some people are panicked when they see a brown spot or two begin to form. That’s perfectly normal, Jay says, so you should relax. “Age is always your friend,” he says. David agrees. He also has another suggestion, one that might save some worried souls a few bucks from throwing out perfectly good cuts of meat.

The Kingsland herd is grass fed and finished on grain. Each animal is reared without hormones or antibiotics, an important note in the industrialized world of food production, where some meat products are forced to grow too fast. That’s definitely not the case at Kingsland, and with good reason.

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Intramuscular fat content is what creates marbling and drives flavor. It’s also something that, without modern technology, ranchers would guess. Today, instead of guessing, they use ultrasound to image the whole animal. Instead of hoping for a perfectly marbled ribeye, now a handler can look inside, from the youngest age. “It will show a picture at a young age, what we need to do with an animal, as well as the IMF,” David says. This helps make sure each animal is as successfully reared as possible. With the help of technology such as the ultrasound, David can coax each animal to the perfect weight, roughly 1,350 pounds, before sending it to slaughter. The process typically takes between 17 and 18 months. The steaks come off the grill, and into

If you open the package and smell, you’re making a mistake. Instead, take the cut out of the package and place it on a plate in the refrigerator for an hour or two before cooking. Before cooking it, let it come to room temperature, which will help release both water content and the flavor. Most of the time, both Jay and David say a dab of olive oil, some pepper and a dash of salt are all you need for a perfect steak, from filet to sirloin. For some cuts of meat, though—flank steak, for example—it’s a little more work. As David puts it, you’ll need a recipe. “I’ve cooked every part of a cow,” he says. “Some parts, you want to marinate.” Buying Kingsland steaks and beef products isn’t as difficult as it used to be. They’re sold retail at Gibson’s Natural Grocer in Ruston. Also, you can usually order a special Kingsland dish at Sage. But for those home grillmasters, don’t fret. You can reach out to Jay and pick up a cut of meat. But you’ll want to call ahead. “Depending on what you want, it can take a couple of weeks sometimes,” Jay says. That’s because only 15 percent of a steer becomes steaks. The rest gets processed into other products, with roughly 60 percent going into the grinder to become the base of a hearty ragu or to end up as a delicious meatloaf. Over the past few months—they’ve only been selling direct to consumer since January— Jay says ground beef has become a mainstay of their sales. “I’ve got several customers who order ten pounds every couple of weeks,” Jay says. You can expect to pay a little more for the Kingsland beef experience than you would at your local grocery store, where the cows have been subject to hormones and antibiotics. But, both Jay and David stress that Kingsland is sustainable, that the cows raised there aren’t your typical cow. “People see Food Inc. and other documentaries, and we are absolutely not that,” says Jay. “Our land is sustainable, and our cows are treated very well.” And it shows in the flavorful cuts of meet served up by Kingsland. Naturally raised and local, you’ll be able to taste the difference yourself. To order Kingsland beef products, contact Jay Yates directly at (318) 791-2526. You can also follow Kingsland Ranch on Facebook for up-to-date pricing and production information. A full-service web site is expected later this year. 128 MAY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

St. Frederick Looks Ahead

Achievements Celebrated at St.Frederick High School

Left: SFHS Boys and Girls Track Teams bring home the trophies. Right: Arianna Worthy elected Louisiana FBLA State Treasurer.

ITH SUMMER JUST AROUND THE CORNER, ST. Frederick Catholic High School is preparing for the culmination of what has been an excellent 50th year celebration. One of the highlights was the recent recommendation for re-accreditation following a SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) review visit in March. “This favorable report is another achievement in St. Frederick’s quest to provide high-quality, research-based instructional practices and an excellent learning environment that our parents have come to expect in a college-prep high school,” said Guy Farber, Principal. “This is just one of the many achievements that has highlighted our 50th Anniversary. Other achievements include successes in track, FBLA and District Literary Rally.”

Achievements The FBLA team was successful at the Louisiana FBLA State Leadership Conference held in Lafayette this March. Twenty-one members competed, and six qualified for nationals in Chicago, IL in June. Winners: Arianna Worthy – elected Louisiana FBLA State Treasurer First place winner in Sports and Entertainment Management (team event) – Austin Clark, John Ellender, Blake Gladfelter

Qualifying for National Competition: Agribusiness (2nd) – Cooper Breithaupt Business Calculations (2nd) – Diana Pham Job Interview (3rd) – Arianna Worthy

Top 10 Finalists: Mr. Future Business Leader (3nd) – Austin Clark, Agribusiness (4th) – William Barham, Business Presentation (team) (4th) – Blair Breard, McKenna Sanderson, Lydia Weaver, Richard D. Clanton Scholarship (4th) – Jefferson Manning, Public Speaking II (5th) – Jefferson Manning, Introduction to Business Communication (6th) – Ara Mercado, Business Law (7th) – Daniel Ellender, Ms. Future Business Leader (8th) – Arianna Worthy, and Sales Presentation (9th) – Rachel Augurson CONTINUED ON PAGE 178

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | MAY 2015

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Miss Louisiana Organization Miss Louisiana Pageant Celebrates 52 Years in Monroe

HE MISS LOUISIANA PAGEANT will celebrate its’ 52nd year in Monroe June 25–27 at the Monroe Civic Center’s W.L. “Jack” Howard Theater. Preliminary competition will be held on Thursday and Friday evening and the live statewide telecast will be held on Saturday, June 27. This year’s show will feature Miss Louisiana 2014 Lacey Sanchez, the 35 contestants from all over the Bayou State, Fleur de Lis Princesses, a live band, local talent and former Miss Louisianas. The emcees will once again be Ed Walsh from Shreveport, LA and former Miss Louisiana Melissa Clark Whitworth and several former Miss Louisianas. In addition, 29 young ladies will converge on the University of Louisiana at Monroe Campus for the annual Miss Louisiana’s

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Outstanding Teen Pageant May 29 and 30. Buy your tickets now through the Miss Louisiana Patron Program to guarantee some of the best seats in the house. The deadline to purchase patron seats is May 6th. Tickets will go on sale at the Monroe Civic Center Box office and Ticketmaster on June 1st. Visit www.misslouisiana.org for more information. The Miss Louisiana Organization has a volunteer based Board of Directors that works to share the accomplishments of the 35 contestants and provide scholarships to further their education. The Miss Louisiana Organization awarded over $60,000 in cash scholarships last year, and made available over $500,000 in-kind scholarships. The Miss Louisiana Organization is part of the Miss

America Organization who offers millions of dollars in cash and scholarships annually, making them the number one provider of scholarships for women in the world. The Miss Louisiana Organization is very grateful for the support of local businesses who make the pageant a success each year. Our corporate sponsors are: the City of Monroe, Monroe/West Monroe Convention and Visitors Bureau, the University of Louisiana at Monroe, Propane Dealers of Louisiana, Vantage Health Plan, Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco Free Living, Louisiana Tech University, Big Whit 77 Foundation, Laundry by Shelli Segal, TownePlace Suites by Marriott and JPS Executive Transportation.

Hot Off the Press

Daily Press Opens Second Location on Louisville Avenue

F YOU’VE DRIVEN DOWN LOUISVILLE LATELY AND caught the scent of some delicious coffee brewing, that’s because there’s a new Daily Press in town. That’s right. Monroe’s favorite pressed po’boys and espresso drinks can now be found right across the street from the Twin City Shopping Center! This new location boasts a redesigned coffee shop atmosphere that’s perfect for studying, a casual catch up with a friend, or a lunch break escape from the office. Even though you’ll want to stick around and relax, sometimes you only have a few minutes to grab a meal on the go. That’s why everything Daily Press makes comes out fast and fresh, and their multiple kiosks mean you never have to wait in line. If you need that extra pick-me-up on the way to work in the morning, stop by for a cappuccino, a latté or a sweet frozen espresso drink. The new touchscreen coffee bar makes ordering a snap! Their breakfast menu is unbeatable, and there’s always espresso by the shot for the purists. Caffeine not your craving? Bite into one of their hot pastries. They’re baked fresh every day and go perfectly with an ice-cold fruit smoothie. And of course, nothing goes better with a sunlit afternoon than a frozen yogurt mixed with fruits and nuts. Caught in the downtown area with a rumbling stomach and not in the mood for greasy fried food? Sounds like you might need a soup and salad combo. Daily Press always makes your salad exactly how you like it thanks to their unique interactive ordering screens, and they offer different wholesome soup options every day of the week: from broccoli and cheese to tomato basil. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, they’ve got you covered with a loaded baked potato hot from the oven. And what “loaded” means is entirely up to you. One of the Daily Press regulars always orders his spud with sautéed mushrooms, sour cream, gravy and olives on top. But Daily Press doesn’t judge. Their goal is to make it your way no matter how off-the-beaten-path “your way” is. So come check out the new location at 2300 Louisville Avenue! Daily Press: the coffee is serious, but the mood is chill.

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A Better Way HOW THE SCOTT FAMILY WORKS TOGETHER TO BUILD A LEGACY

article by Michael DeVault & photography by Martin G Meyers

ooking back on the last 36 years, Ron Scott has reason to be proud. After all, it’s not every man who can say he’s achieved his dream in a year and then gotten to live that dream for another 35. But that’s precisely what Ron did in 1980, when he returned to his native Bastrop from Tyler, Texas. For the previous few years, he and his wife, Debbie, had traveled around the south, working for a string of furniture stores. As Ron puts it, those years spent traveling gave him the opportunity to learn the ins and outs

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of the furniture business. His employer at the time had been gracious and understanding, knowing that Ron’s time with the company was limited. “It was a dream, always,” Ron told BayouLife. “As a matter of fact, when I went to work for that furniture company, I told them that some day, I wanted to do it for me. The owner said that was fine, and he asked me to do a good job for him while I was there.” Ron did an exceptional job, and one day in early 1980, while his parents were visiting from back home, Ron shared his vision with his parents. Both of his parents understood

the value of hard work and the joint trials and benefits of self-employment. Donna Scott, his mother, worked in her husband’s business part-time while also teaching school. Ray, his father, managed a mobile home sales lot and owned his own towing company. Both of the senior Scotts were supportive of their son’s dream. But he needed financing. That’s where his parents came in. Ron approached them about providing seed capital for a bedding store. They would sell mattresses, box springs, bunk beds, headboards and other bedding products. It was a good business model, and one that protected their

investment, Ron thought. They agreed, with one caveat. “Through conversations, they were more comfortable being involved, to protect their investment,” Ron says. “And it really sounded like a great endeavor, so that’s how it became a 50-50 partnership.” Just like that, the first two generations of Scotts were in the furniture business together. They selected a spot on a prominent corner of Courthouse Square in Bastrop, and they got to work. For capital, Donna and Ray took out a mortgage on their home--a testimony to their commitment, as the home was paid for and represented a significant portion of the couple’s long-term financial security. To save money, Ron and Debbie moved into his parents’ house. At the time, Ron didn’t quite understand his parents’ commitment. Looking back, it’s a different story. “I probably didn’t appreciate that nearly as much then as I would now,” he says. “I didn’t realize what a sacrifice, what a risk it was for them.” Adding to this risk, in 1980, the going rate for a mortgage through Ouachita National Bank was north of 20 percent. “It was a time of very pricy money,” Ron says. Still, they persevered. As they set up shop, his father continued to sell cars and run the tow company. Both his wife and mother continued to teach. With every spare waking minute, they worked the store. As the company’s sales grew, they branched out. First, Ron had the idea to sell waterbeds, a notion his mother dismissed almost outright. This was, after all, 1982. Now deceased, Donna’s thoughts on the idea are preserved in “The Legend of Our Sleepy Hollow,” a 1983 document she wrote to tell her family’s story. “He had the nerve to suggest that we turn our perfectly respectable business into a waterbed store!” Donna writes in the story. “I was absolutely horrified. Nobody but hippies and ‘kinky folks’ slept on waterbeds. What would I tell my friends?” But it was a partnership with four voters, of which Donna was but a single voice. Outvoted, she fell behind the plan and in mid 1982, Sleepy Hollow took up the waterbed business. “In almost no time at all, waterbeds alone had almost doubled our sales volume,” she writes. Based in part on that growth and owing also to the expiration of a series of non-competes in Monroe and Ruston, Ron sold Sleepy Hollow in Bastrop to his brother. The family secured property in Ruston and on Louisville Avenue in Monroe. Another round of expansion pushed them out still farther to Shreveport and eventually the Sleepy Hollow brand covered five stores. Those were the “good old days.” With the nature of competition

from national retailers, Sleepy Hollow refocused its efforts into a full-service retail furniture store. It’s flagship, still in that Louisville Ave. storefront, continues to serve customers today. That’s where the third generation of Scotts come in. Jo Tiffany Scott Faulk, Ron and Debbie’s daughter, recalls growing up in Sleepy Hollow, a place she calls almost magical. As children, she and her siblings frequently played in the store. She shares some of her favorite memories of the store, and it’s clear her love for this business--and this location in particular--is quite deep. “Most of my life, we were physically in this building,” she says. “From the time I was old enough to come to work, I’d come with Dad and play. Mom was a teacher, so when we were sick, we’d sleep on the office floor.” At night, she traveled around with her father, who delivered furniture, filled and drained waterbeds and helped set up rooms for customers. “That was everything Debbie and Ron Scott Dad put into it to have a successful business,” Jo Tiffany says. “Thankfully, he allowed his kids to be involved.” Where most kids have to content themselves with games of tag in the back yard, the Scott children played hide and seek under the doors of pedestal waterbeds. The back showroom was the mattress warehouse, with a high, arched ceiling and bare rafters. Those were happy times--if somewhat dangerous. “When I say we swung from the rafters, we literally did,” Jo Tiffany says. “We made slides out of mattresses. We’re the only kids who had trampolines by Simmons Beautyrest.” Today, it’s Jo Tiffany’s kids who are playing in the warehouse and climbing mattress stacks. Ron beams with pride when he thinks about his grandchildren in the store. “The fourth generation is already playing the same games,” Ron says. Jo Tiffany is encouraged at the level of commitment her children have to their grandfather’s vision. They’ve already discussed at great length the order in which each of the children will own the company-and they each get a turn. It’s important to note, Jo Tiffany points out, that her children are all several years away from high school. Still, they’re involved. “My children are using their phones to record their own commercials,” she says. It’s not too soon, she thinks, for them to consider their Sleepy Hollow futures. After all, hers began in childhood, too. Thinking about transitions is important to successfully navigating a multigenerational business. In late 2009 or early 2010, Ron was starting to ponder his future. He knew he wanted to retire from the furniture business, to free up time to travel with Debbie.

“It was a dream, always,” Ron told BayouLife. “As a matter of fact, when I went to work for that furniture company, I told them that some day, I wanted to do it for me.”

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e of Sleepy Hollow id ts ou d re tu ic p tt s. Ron and Ray Scoo of the three generations of owner Furniture â&#x20AC;&#x201C; tw 134 MAY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

Those same thoughts had been on the mind of Jo Tiffany, who had told her husband, Jarrad, that she wanted to buy Sleepy Hollow. “He said ‘yes’ immediately,” she recalls. So without warning, she approached her father. “I popped into his office and said if he wanted to sell, I wanted to buy. So much of my childhood was the story of Sleepy Hollow,” she says. Ron was equitable to a sale, but he wanted time to gauge her commitment. They immediately embarked on an apprenticeship during which she assumed ever increasing responsibilities for the store. By April 1, 2011, they were ready for the switch, and the purchase was finalized. In a relationship-driven business like furniture sales, though, it was important to keep Ron involved. “Until now, I’ve never publicly said I own it, because he always ran the company with integrity and the most important focus being on customer service,” Jo Tiffany says. “The value of the business came with the customer base when I purchased it. I never wanted to give anyone a reason to feel their ties to our family went away when he retired.”

Jarrad and Jo Tiffany Faulk

Still, the transition was challenging. Long-term employees were used to dealing with Ron. Over the years, Jo Tiffany slowly assembled her own team to run the operation. For his part, Ron has made his presence

almost invisible, no small feat considering he maintains offices with Debbie in the back. That success is by design. “I’ve made a conscious effort not to butt in and to try and be as helpful as possible without interfering,” Ron says. “If I’m not asked, I generally do not get involved.” Customers still expect to see him from time to time, and that’s flattering and an honor, he says. “Customers do come in looking for me, and I’m always appreciative of that,” he says. “I enjoy spending time with them, but I let the people who work here do their job and take care of the customers and follow up with the customers.” One of the people who the customers depend upon is another Scott. Jo Tiffany’s little brother, Ronnie, joined the firm a couple of years ago. He calls himself the prodigal son, returned from a career in Dallas. Today he’s the Sleepy Hollow sales manager and oversees a team of five. “The best part is this is home,” he says. “It’s allowed me to grow up with a tangible and visual example of what a family and a business model can be. That’s allowed me to think maybe there’s a better way out there.”

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Louisiana Cancer Foundation

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

T’S TIME TO ENJOY THE GREAT outdoors, but please protect yourself and your family by practicing smart skin safety while in the sun. Skin cancer is the most common cancer with 2 million cases of nonmelanoma (basal or squamous cell) cancer in the U.S. each year. Melanoma, the most serious type, accounts for 68,000 cases.

What are some risk factors for skin cancer? • Fair complexion (most people with blonde or red hair) • A personal or family history of skin cancer • Prolonged exposure to sun • Certain skin types that have multiple or atypical moles • Skin that burns easily • A history of sunburns early in life

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What are signs and symptoms of skin cancer? • Changes in color or size of moles, any pigmented growth, spot or a new growth • Skin scaliness, oozing, bleeding or changes in appearance of bumps or nodules • Spreading pigmentation or dark coloring extending past the edge of a mark or mole • A change in sensation, itchiness, tenderness or pain

How can one reduce the risk of skin cancer? • Avoid the sun between 10 am and 2 pm • Wear protective clothing when outdoors • Use sunscreen and lip balm with sun protection factor of 15 or higher • Wear sunglasses with 99% to 100% UV absorption • Wear a brimmed hat covering your ears

• Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps

In keeping with its mission to serve as a community resource for the prevention of cancer, Louisiana Cancer Foundation and Northeast Louisiana Cancer Institute sponsor free cancer screenings for area residents. The Foundation provides funds for a ULM nursing student oncology course, as well as funding for ULM School of Pharmacy in cancer-related research projects. Through the Cancer Foundation League, financial assistance has been given to help thousands of area cancer patients. Please consider Louisiana Cancer Foundation in your charitable donations. All contributions stay in our area, and there are no administrative costs.

Interiors, Fine Paper and Gifts

Treat Yourself and Your Home with a Trip to Haven

VISIT TO HAVEN IS A MUST whether you are shopping for a friend or looking for something for your home. This great boutique has it all. From exclusive gifts to beautiful lamps, furniture and bedding, this shop should be your “go to” place when searching for something special. Graduation is just around the corner. Great gifts for graduates include stylish bags from Cinda B, personalized notepads, thank you notes, campus prints and power cards to charge phones on the go. Mother’s Day is May 10th and Haven has perfect choices for mom. A large selection of ladies’ pajamas and robes or a beautiful piece from their handcrafted jewelry lines make great gifts. Haven has

also just received several lines of abstract art that would be a hit with mom! It’s not too early to be thinking about Father’s Day. It will be here before you know it. Haven has an impressive selection of men’s gift items. You can choose from Jack Black’s award winning skin care products, men’s lounge wear and robes, travel and game bags and cookbooks. If spring has motivated you to update your bedroom, be sure to stop by Haven since they have the largest selection of bedding in our area. With over 15 companies and a custom workroom they are sure to have a color and style that can be ordered to fit your taste. The designers on staff can provide assistance with any interior related purchase whether it is bedding, rugs,

furniture or draperies. Haven carries several well-known leather, upholstery and slipcover lines, including Sherrill Furniture that has been in business for over 60 years. Don’t miss their Spring Sale, now in progress. In-stock bedding is 30% off and includes coverlets, bedskirts, shams and duvets. If they don’t have the size you need, you can special order it for 10% off during this sale. With all the spring and summer parties coming up, be sure to take advantage of Haven’s invitation sale! 60% off a large selection of in-stock invitations, including general party, kids birthday, baby shower and more! Visit Haven today!

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Landscaping and Lawn Experts

NorthPro Landscaping and Lawn Care - North Louisiana’s Property Preservation Professionals

INCE 2001, NORTHPRO LANDSCAPING

and Lawn Care has been serving the northeast Louisiana area and striving to keep their customers happy. Owner Tommy Neck has expanded his business to include multiple crews, full-time office staff, and currently serves customers all over northeast Louisiana. No job is too big or too small for NorthPro, whether you are looking for help with design or maintenance. North Louisiana residents agree, as NorthPro has been voted Best Landscaping and Lawn Care service of the Delta over the past few years. NorthPro Landscaping and Lawn Care is north Louisiana’s property preservation professionals NorthPro Landscaping and Lawncare is

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one of the leading full-service landscaping companies in the Monroe/West Monroe area. Our services include landscape design, landscape maintenance, lawn care, hardscapes, water features, outdoor lighting and debris removal. We have experienced landscapers and guarantee clean, prompt and reliable service. At the age of sixteen, Tommy Neck began mowing lawns for extra money. By the time he was out of high school he had employees to help him maintain his large customer base. Tommy has a landscape horticulture license (#3747) and an irrigator contractor license (#0442). Now a family man with a wife and three boys, he balances his work life with his family life working hard to promote his business and spend time with his kids. Tommy’s

creativity and business sense are assets in his thriving business. He manages NorthPro Landscaping and Lawn Care while keeping the same core values that the business was founded upon – clean, prompt, reliable service the first time and every time after that.

“We started with a large empty yard and not much else. Tommy Neck and the crew at NorthPro helped us develop a plan to turn our blank yard into a beautiful outdoor retreat full of inviting places to relax, play and even birdwatch! Our yard now has several interesting shady spaces we use every day. His creative mix of flowers, trees, shrubs and hardscapes transformed the way we spend our time outdoors. His crew was always professional, on time and kept us up to date with the project. Tommy called several times to inform me of the progress and ask my preferences on plants and colors. The hardscape he designed turned out better than I imagined, and the budget was exactly what he estimated. Now that the project is complete, we spend more time outside than we ever have before. I get compliments on my yard at least once a week! It’s like we added on to our home because we have so much more useful space outside. Thank you Tommy Neck and your crew for making our yard nicer than we dreamed it could be!” – Rebecca Frye

Having Buckets of Fun with Delhi Hospital!

Delhi Hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Diabetes Self-Management Program Promotes Healthy Living

PRIL SHOWERS NOT ONLY bring May flowers, but also bring May gardens. The Delhi Hospital Diabetes Support Group gathered on April 9th to learn about bucket gardening from Master Gardner, Cynthia Warner. Each person planted their own tomato plant in a bucket to grow fresh tomatoes for the approaching summer with supplies donated by Maxwellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hardware Store of Delhi. Fun filled learning activities like this are held every month in conjunction with a series of educational classes that help patients learn more about managing their diabetes. Our AADE Nationally-Recognized Diabetes Self-Management Program is designed to help people gain and maintain better control of their diabetes and feel good about

themselves while doing so. Our goal is to teach skills that will enable them to keep blood glucose levels as close to the normal range as possible. Our staff of Certified Diabetes Educators will work with you and your provider to help you achieve and maintain lifestyle changes to make this goal a reality. We provide instructions on the following SelfCare Behaviors: healthy eating, medications, being active, blood glucose monitoring, problem solving, healthy coping and reducing risks. Diabetes continues to negatively impact the health of our nation. This costly disease affects greater than 20 million people and is a leading cause of death and disability. Many people are unaware of how to successfully manage their diabetes. Our trained staff

wants to help you gain and maintain control of your diabetes as you embark on the road to a more enjoyable life. We will develop a plan designed to meet your needs and help you plant the seeds of a healthy lifestyle. Speak with your provider about your interest in attending our educational classes, or phone our office and our staff will make the necessary contacts for the referral. Even if you have had diabetes for an extended period of time, we can still help you identify and decrease your risk factors for developing complications associated with diabetes. To learn more about the Delhi Hospital Diabetes Self-Management Program, call 318-878-2845 or visit www.delhihospital.com.

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P&S Surgical Hospital Recognized

Local Hospital Among the Nation’s Top Two Percent

P&S Surgical Hospital is pital is the only hospital in north among the nation’s top Louisiana to receive the Patient two percent of hospitals Safety Excellence Award™ two to receive both the Payears in a row (2014-2015). tient Safety Excellence™ and OutHealthgrades 2015 Patient standing Patient Experience™ Safety Excellence Award recipients Awards from Healthgrades® in provided safety for patients in the 2015. “We work hard to ensure the Medicare population, as measured best possible care for our patients,” by objective outcomes (risk-adsaid P&S Surgical Hospital CEO justed patient safety indicator Linda Holyfield, CEO Linda S. Holyfield. “I am so apprerates) for 13 patient safety indicaciative of our excellent physicians, tors defined by the Agency for as well as our entire staff, who ensure our hos- Healthcare Research and Quality. The data for pital delivers outstanding healthcare to north- the 2015 award was collected between 2011east Louisiana.” 2013. The Patient Safety Excellence Award™ In addition to performing well in the 13 honors hospitals that prevent serious, poten- Patient Safety Indicators, P&S Surgical Hospitially preventable complications during hospital reports an infection rate of only 0.24 percent. tal stays. This distinction places P&S Surgical The national average is approximately 2.33 perHospital among the top 10 percent of hospitals cent, as reported by Physician Hospitals of in the nation for “excellent” performance as America. evaluated by Healthgrades. P&S Surgical HosRegarding the 2015 Outstanding Patient

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Experience Award, Healthgrades evaluated 3,575 hospitals that submitted patient surveys to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, covering admissions from January 2013 – December 2013. Of these hospitals, 3,005 hospitals met additional clinical quality requirements to be considered for this Healthgrades distinction. The top 15 percent of this group— or 452 hospitals—achieved the award. P&S Surgical Hospital classified in the top 5 percent.

More about P&S Surgical Hospital P&S Surgical Hospital is a joint venture between St. Francis Medical Center and physician specialists. Located in downtown Monroe, Louisiana, our hospital continues to garner national accolades for incredible patient care and technically advanced medical procedures. Our hospital – named one of the 56 PhysicianOwned Hospitals to Know by Becker’s Hospital Review – was founded by a group of 19 doctors in a joint venture with SFMC in 1997.

Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery Recognized for Quality, Cost Effective Bariatric Surgery

EDICAL TOURISM — THE practice of traveling across international borders to access healthcare— has increased during the last decade. While lower costs and less wait time may contribute to the allure of an overseas medical procedure, there is one benefit that trumps all else: quality. Bariatric surgery is no exception. As a matter of fact, the Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery was formed in 2006 in response to the increasing number of patients who underwent bariatric procedures in Mexico, only to return home and land in a local Emergency Room with serious complications. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana recently recognized P&S Surgical Hospital— home to Louisiana Center for Weight Loss Surgery—a Blue Distinction® Center+ for Bariatric Surgery. LCWLS has also been desig-

nated a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence® by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. To earn the Center of Excellence designation, LCWLS was required to undergo a series of site inspections during which all aspects of the program’s surgical processes were closely examined. These quality standards mean low infection rates and excellent clinical outcomes for our patients. The quality clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction with our care are ranked in the top percentiles nationally. It is impossible to ensure that patients overseas will benefit from the same safeguards that exist in the United States, as there is no worldwide standard of care. Accreditation and other quality measures vary widely depending on the country in which the medical services are being provided. Additionally,

the equivalent of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) either does not exist or is not as stringent in most of the countries that serve as major medical tourism sites for bariatric surgery. In fact, even the medical supplies may not be as closely regulated, according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Traveling a long distance after surgery can also increase the risk of complications such as deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolisms, along with other difficulties. There are also additional risks of contracting infectious diseases while traveling abroad. Due to the time constraints of undergoing bariatric surgery abroad, patients may not receive important education and CONTINUED ON PAGE 163

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THE BORING LIFE

article by TABBY SOIGNIER photography by ANGELA GROCE

Aly Taylor was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 25. After undergoing chemotherapy and a double mastectomy, Aly prayed for her life to be “boring again.” Now, three years after her diagnosis, she is cancer-free and a mom to a beautiful baby girl. Life may not be back to boring just yet, but it is definitely overflowing with joy. This is her story: t first glance, the biggest problem the Taylor family appears to have is the chaos of moving into a new house. There are plenty of pictures still left to hang on the wall and boxes to unpack in their new home in West Monroe, but the family scene is one for a Norman Rockwell painting. The beautiful blonde wife sits on the couch while her adoring husband rocks their 30-day old daughter nearby. Aly Taylor tucks her flowing locks behind her ear and only if you know her story can you notice the small scar on her lower neck. It’s one of many signs that their lives are anything but a Norman Rockwell painting. There are plenty of battle scars that link to stories of heartache and struggle, but the most important presence of their new home are the two miracles that are products of the scars

– the ones you can see and the others that lie on the hearts of the Taylor family and all those who know them. April 30 is a day that will be celebrated like a birthday and it will continue to be a special mark every year on that date. Three years ago to the day, the scene around Aly and Josh looked nothing like it does now. For one, Aly’s long blonde hair was gone. She had also just lost both breasts after extensive rounds of chemotherapy and a double mastectomy. At 25, Aly was diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2011. Her doctor was 99 percent sure the lump Aly found in the shower was benign. Instead, she fell into that 1 percent of doubt and through her story she’s given all the credit to the One – God. “I felt like there’s a reason I’m going through this,” Aly said. “God chose me. He wants me to be a vessel,

and I’m going to walk this out the way he wants me to walk this out. I didn’t want for this to happen to me and for him to be disappointed in the way that I handled it. I just prayed and said, ‘OK God, I want to do this however you want me to do this.’” The news got worse before it got better. Aly learned her breast cancer was triple negative, which translates into a more aggressive form of breast cancer, and in her case, it was Stage 3 and had spread to the lymph nodes. In most cases, breast cancer victims undergo a mastectomy and then start chemotherapy and then move on to radiation. For Aly, chemotherapy came first then she would undergo the surgery. For a good portion of the next six months following her diagnosis, Aly and Josh, her husband of five years at the time, would travel to MD Anderson

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in Houston for treatment. Aly’s mother made most of the trips with them and other family members and friends showed their support at times too. During that period, an ultrasound was performed every four weeks on Aly’s lymph nodes to see if the cancer had shrunk or even possibly disappeared completely – that was Aly’s prayer, as well as all those who knew her. “It was a slow process,” Aly said. “Every time I went in for a checkup, I wanted to be that miracle case where they checked it and nothing was there, but it wasn’t. It was gradual. It either shrunk or it looked the same and there was no growth.” The cancer never grew any more from her original diagnosis, though, and with a perspective of “the glass half full” Aly and Josh clung to any positive news they could. Aly prayed for a miracle and even though it did not come in the form she wanted – or as fast as she wanted for that matter – it still came. She did one final ultrasound before her double mastectomy and the lymph nodes still looked enlarged and filled with cancer. “They had already told us there’s a good chance when they did the mastectomy if it showed a lot of cancer left (in the removed breasts) that there may have to be more treatment or whatever,” Aly said. “There was a 20 percent chance to be cancer free from the mastectomy.” After being in the 1 percentile of her lump being malignant, Aly joined the 20 percentile group, too. After the mastectomy, there was no cancer. “We got the miraculous news after they did my mastectomy there was no cancer even in what they removed, the chemotherapy and of course we believed God touched me and healed me, but there was no cancer even though the lymph nodes appeared cancerous so that was a huge relief,” Aly said. That day – April 30, 2012 – appeared to be the start of the biggest prayer she wanted most – for her life to be “boring” again. “I’m a big goal setter,” Aly said. “I knew I had six months of this, two months of this. I was just ready to go through it all so it would be in the past. I know God had to walk me through it, but I just wanted to take a pill that would make me go to sleep and knock me out and wake me up when all this is over. “I was just ready. It was so miserable, but at the same time God gave me a peace. I was just like, ‘I want my hair to be gone, do the mastectomy…’ I didn’t dread those things. Once I knew I needed to go through them, I would be done. This chapter would be closed.” It did mark the end of one chapter, but not the end of the book – by far. According to the book of Matthew 25:21, God uses his good and faithful servants, and Aly and Josh displayed just that throughout her cancer journey. Although Aly did the fighting, Josh had his own struggles. “The thing many men, whether Christian or not, struggle with is ‘Did Aly get cancer because God had to go that far to get my attention?’” Josh said. “I know that to be true. It’s not a question. Up until that point, I wasn’t broken enough. It was pride or whatever. It literally did take for God to break me of me. It was the first thing in my life that money and talent wouldn’t fix.” Josh couldn’t fight for Aly either. As much as he wanted to take the chemo for his wife, instead all he could do was offer support and the biggest help of all – reassurance. 144 MAY 2015 | WW W. B AY OU LI FE MAG . CO M

Aly battled with the questions of “Is my husband still going to think I’m attractive? He was 26 at the time. What 26-year old is going to think he’s going to have a wife who is breastless?” Josh and Aly still cry when he recalls the sight of his wife after her surgery. “When she had her mastectomy, the physical scars remind me the devil literally got his hands on her,” Josh said while fighting back tears. “He didn’t just think about it. He got there. He made it that far. (The scars) are a physical sign from God that He healed her. I don’t have to wonder about that. She bares the reminder of he (the devil) tried and it was no good.” Josh points to the same handprints on their daughter, Genevieve.

s previously stated, there are two miracles to this story and the second one was born March 12, 2015. Two months prior to Aly’s cancer diagnosis, she and Josh started trying to get pregnant. In fact, Aly thought she was pregnant when she first found her lump, thinking her breasts were sore – one of the first signs of a woman being pregnant. It’s unknown whether chemotherapy wiped out Aly’s fertility, but a test showed that at 27-years-old, she had the numbers of someone who was about to enter menopause. The heartache may not have been as severe as learning she had cancer, but it was still a heartache with painful magnitude.

After finding peace that Josh still found her attractive, now she mourned the thought of not being able to give him a biological child. “I’ve always been very motherly and wanted to have children,” Aly said. “It was tough … really, really tough. “It was the guilt that it was me. He had to go through my cancer, the mastectomy, then a wife who can’t give him children. It was a grieving process for me and him reassuring me that this was our issue. When he said, ‘This isn’t your problem. This is our problem,’ that was a big thing for me, because I would always apologize and he would get so mad. He would say, ‘That is the most ridiculous thing.’” Cancer is never a good thing or even a good word to say or hear, but in Aly’s case it turned out to be a blessing. It taught her that her plans were not God’s plans – and those are the ones to listen to and follow. “When I stopped trying to plan out my life to how I see it – I wanted to get married, have kids, everything is perfect, life is easy,” Aly said. “I just accepted life is going to be hard. It’s going to have its ups and downs. I’m going to embrace it, and now I have so much peace. “I’m just a dreamer and at this point in my life, I’m kind of like, ‘You know, I’m just going to let God direct me where I’m going to go, and I’m up for the ride.” That ride started on a rollercoaster. After many failed InVitro Fertilization procedures and tossing around the thought of an egg donor, Aly and Josh started to feel led towards adoption. “Once we felt God calling us to adoption, I got to a place where I didn’t want to be pregnant, because for so long that’s all I wanted – just to show you how much God changed my heart,” Aly said. “That is what we felt like he was wanting us to do, which was a huge 180.” Once the decision was made, the next stop on the ride was Jacksonville, Florida. The couple decided to find an attorney and adoption agency in town this past December, and they would take the next steps after Christmas. Around the same time, though, they also decided to sign up for emails sent out by a Florida attorney that shares stories of birth moms

who are looking for a good home for their babies. “A few weeks before Christmas, I got this e-mail and I had a good feeling about it,” Aly said. “I told Josh, and meanwhile we were about to apply to the attorney here in town, so we had that whole conversation and prayed about it. We decided to apply (to the e-mail in Florida) and see what happens.” The two didn’t get their hopes up too high, seeing as 22 couples also applied for this specific story, but one night Aly was driving to a family Christmas get-together when a Jacksonville, Florida number came up on her cell phone. “I answered it and the voice on the other end says, ‘Is this Mrs. Taylor?’” Aly said. “Did you apply for such and such application, and I said, ‘Yes,’ and my heart started beating 100 miles a minute, and he said, ‘Hang on, I have your husband on the other line,’ and my heart just dropped. I’m driving in my car and then the phone disconnects! “He called back and said, ‘Congratulations, she chose ya’ll !’ And we started crying on the phone.” The next three months turned into a whirlwind. While most adoptions take between nine months to a year – and in some cases longer – Aly and Josh went to meet their birth mom who was due in March. “We went from nothing to we’re going to have a baby in 3 months,” Aly said, grinning so big as if she had just received the news all over again. Aly and Josh made several trips back and forth to Florida and established a relationship with the birth mom to the point where they had fallen in love with not just the little girl she was carrying, but the mom herself. Because of that shared loved, it made the next hurdle that much tougher. Genevieve Rose was born on a Thursday and by Friday afternoon the birth mom started having doubts about giving the baby up. In Florida, the law says the birth mother has to sign the papers within 48 hours, so Aly and Josh soaked up as much time as they could during that period to be with the newborn. “She couldn’t come home with us, so she just had to stay at the hospital until Monday, but thankfully our birth mom gave us a bracelet so we were able to bond with her, but then Monday came. That was decision day.”

“Hey baby girl. Hey darling,” Aly says looking down at Genevieve whose hand was resting close to Aly’s heart – a heart that carried her through cancer and infertility and even through the waning moments during Genevieve’s first few days on Earth.

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Aly took the birth mom into the room, hugged her and asked what she was thinking. “She said, ‘I can’t do it. From the moment I saw her, I can’t do it. I feel so terrible! Because we had built a relationship with her, she knew how in love with her we were,” Aly recalled. “I just told her, ‘I don’t know what to say.’ I was just heartbroken, and I was trying to be sympathetic towards her, but my heart was breaking into a million pieces.” Instead of walking down the hospital hallway with her baby in her arms, Aly walked toward the exit to meet the rest of her family with the birth mom consoling her along the way. As they reached the point to part ways, everyone looked at each other and Josh asked if he could pray. Both Aly and Josh laid hands on the birth mom as he started to pray. “It was totally the Holy Spirit,” Aly said. “I’ve never heard him pray like that. He didn’t pray, ‘God help us get this baby’ or ‘Let her eyes open to what she should do.’ It was more ‘Lord, show her she’s not a failure. Give her peace, walk with her, speak wise to her, let her know she’s worthy.’” From the time they bowed their heads to pray until Josh said, ‘Amen’ the birth mom had a change of heart. Aly and Josh went to say goodbye and she said, ‘I want to sign the papers.’ A counselor came to see if the birth mom was coherent and rational, and she said, “God has only spoken to me one other time in my life, and I was for sure it was God. As soon as we got done praying, I’ve never been more at peace to know what to do.” From that point on, the only tears shed were happy ones from the proud parents, grandparents and every family member in between. The birth mom never cried again, even the next morning when they went to say their goodbyes. “She was still just at peace,” Aly said. “I had given her a basket full of gifts, and she opened my devotional that morning. It’s a devotional that’s written as if Jesus is speaking to you, and it said, ‘My child you are going to make a hard decision but know that I am guiding you and I’m giving you peace.’ And she said ‘I woke up this morning and got confirmation and it was the most peaceful I’ve ever felt. “There were no tears, just ‘I love you, guys. I’m so excited that you have her.’” Genevieve of course has her tears when she gets fussy, and she did just as her mommy started talking about God’s pull to lead them to adoption. At 30 days into parenthood, Aly and Josh seem to already have a pretty good hold on things. “Hey, baby girl. Hey, darling,” Aly says looking down at Genevieve whose hand was resting close to Aly’s heart – a heart that carried her through cancer and infertility and even through the waning moments during Genevieve’s first few days on Earth. “The other day she was grabbing and pulling my hair, and I said, ‘Lord, thank You that I have hair for her to pull,’” Aly said. “I hate being that person who always brings serious things in, but you think like that. You can pull my hair all day long. I don’t care.” As Aly’s three-year anniversary of being cancer free nears, she’s back to a full head of hair to go with the love in her full heart. Life may not be back to boring just yet, but it is definitely overflowing with joy.

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To purchase Aly's first book "How Cancer Made Me A Mommy," visit her blog at www.alysfight.com. Let them know you read their story at www.alysfight.com/bayoulife to receive a discount on your book purchase. Article photography by Angela Groce of Unveiled Radiance Photography. Visit her website at www.unveiledradiancephotography.com

Hoffmann Campaign The beautiful Windlake Farms in West Monroe was the setting for the March 26 event to honor Representative Frank Hoffmann. Windlake Farms owners, Jackie and Dr. Mike Bailey welcomed hundreds of supporters, hosts and platinum sponsors to their home and horse farm as Representative Hoffmann announced his candidacy for re-election as District 15 State Representative. Hoffmann's Campaign Steering Committee planned an evening filled with great food, fellowship and live jazz ensemble to provide a lively mood for the evening. Fresh spring flowers adorned the Bailey's beautiful home overlooking the pool and lake. Frank reminded the crowd of the challenges facing the state in 2015 with a $1.6 billion deficit. The election will be held in October 2015. Photos courtesy of Cindy Ingram Photography

On the BayouScene

1 Dr. Mike and Jackie Bailey with Frank Hoffmann (center) 2 Susan Hoffman (center) with Sharon and Leon Miletello 3 Kellye Hoogland, Kayla Hance, Frank Hoffmann and Teresa von Diezelski 4 Susan and Frank Hoffmann with Shawn and Courtney Hornsby 5 Tommy and Kim Lolley, Mike and Dianne Cage, Frank Hoffmann 6 Kim Barfield Lolley and Carla Howell Hardy 7 Grace Kirksey and Jean Plunk

Treat Mom to Something Special from Trio’s This Mother’s Day! 2 2 1 9 F O R S Y T H E AV E N U E • M O N R O E MON - SAT: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM, SUN 11:00 AM TIL...

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This Mother’s Day, Let Her Light Shine!

Beauty... It’s in the Blood at Professional Laser Center

BY JUDY WAGONER

S WE CELEBRATE OUR MOTHERS this month, consider a trip to Professional Laser Center. Let us pamper her with traditional options of Botox, fillers or lasers to restore her natural beauty. A luxurious Vampire FaceLift and Vampire Facial treatment for glowing, radiant skin is a unique gift. If Mom has been thinking about a facelift but can’t bear the idea of surgery, the answer could be coursing through her veins. Try a rejuvenation with injections of her own blood. The ‘Vampire FaceLift’ – involves taking a blood sample from the patient’s arm and putting it through a machine which separates the Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP. When injected, this natural product stimulates the skin to repair itself.

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The Vampire "Facial" involves microneedling with PRP. A pen-like device with a disposable tip of tiny needles is used to aerate the skin. PRP is placed on the skin and stamped into the face, promoting these restorative and enhancement benefits: • Stimulates collagen growth • Improves thickness and durability of the skin • Can reduce wrinkles • Little downtime so you can return to work the next day • Can reduce acne scarring and skin discoloration

Professional Laser Center is also excited to offer PRP therapy for sexual enhancement, and for women suffering from stress inconti-

nence. The treatment is performed by our Medical Director, Dr. Victor Zuckerman, who has advanced training in these PRP procedures. For Mom, it’s the O-shot. The "O-Shot" is a virtually painless procedure and takes less than an hour to perform. Benefits include cell regrowth and rejuvenation within the nerves and muscles of the female anatomy, as well as, the urethral and bladder areas. The results are a reduction in bladder leakage, improvement in orgasmic activity and a decrease in pain caused by intercourse. For more information on these and other services, call Professional Laser Center at 318361-9066, or visit our website www.professionallaser.com. Consultations are free.

GI Peds

Do You Know Your Inherited Risk?

NOWING AND COMMUNICATING your family history to your doctor helps determine if you are at risk for developing colorectal cancer. Knowing the illnesses suffered by your relatives can save your life. Few of us know our family history, so research and record it. It could save your life! Create a â&#x20AC;&#x153;portraitâ&#x20AC;? of your family health history. An easy to use tool is available at: http://www.hhs.gov/familyhistory/portrait/ and will help you create your Family Health Portrait.

Tips to Build Your Family Health Portrait: 1. Make a list. When asking about family history of polyps or colorectal cancer, your blood relatives are the most important; your parents, siblings, half-siblings and your children. Next are your grandparents, great uncles and great aunts, uncles, aunts,

nieces, nephews and cousins. For relatives that are deceased, ask anyone who might remember causes and ages of death.

2. Ask. Ask relatives if they had cancer. If they did, find out their age and type of cancer when diagnosed. Also ask about any serious gastrointestinal problems.

3. Pick the right time. A relaxed atmosphere is best when talking with relatives to gather information. Holidays or birthday celebrations are perfect!

4. Tell them why. If they know why you are asking, they will try harder to provide details.

5. Ask one question at a time. Too many questions at once make the task more difficult and confusing.

6. Keep a record. Use notes and/or a recorder to track details, then transfer information to a more permanent safe place for future reference.

7. Share! If you discover a risk of colorectal cancer in your family, contact blood relatives to alert them and encourage them to get screened for colon cancer. Early detection saves lives. What a great gift to give your relatives!

GI Associates is a certified endoscopy facility with a staff of board-certified physicians highly trained in gastroenterology for adult and pediatric patients. Contact GI Associates to share your family history and request a colon screening to identify any problems that exist as early as possible.

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Junior League of Monroe Spring Market

The Junior League of Monroe hosted its annual Spring Market event, March 13 - 15 at the Monroe Civic Center. Nearly 100 vendors were set up selling jewelry, clothing, home decor and gourmet foods, all as an effort to raise money for the Junior League of Monroe. Presented by Community Trust Bank, this year's Spring Market featured several special shopping events including a champagne brunch, sponsored by The Mulhearn Corporation, an evening of girls’ shopping sponsored by Progressive Bank and a new children’s event, Breakfast with Bunnies, sponsored by The Paper Market. Spring Market is the Junior League's largest fundraiser and raises money for the group's community projects and services, such as Families Can't Wait, Tools and Literacy for Children.

On the BayouScene

1 Hannah Buﬃngton, Chelse White and Sarah Dilmore 2 Arie Milner, Jennifer Ables and Brittany Hayes 3 Rami Gaubert, Rachel Verucchi and Cindie Gaubert 4 Betsy Havens, Jo Elms and Bridget Hampton 5 Amanda Harris, Stephanie Shepherd and Natalie Ingle 6 Meredith Rigsby and JJ Wyatt 7 Denise Fontana and April Fontana 8 Sarah Nerren, Leslie Hughes, Lauren Voorhees and Robin Beatty 9 Natalie Sutor and Leslie Culp 10 Jennifer Richardson, Jordan Raborn and Lissy Compton 11 Lindsey Ingram, Kristin Wydle and Kelli Cole 12 Mary Francis Siggers and Alecia Traxler 13 April and Jason Fontana 14 Kate Dumas, Anne Dumas with Leslie Bauman 15 Lindsey Swander, Kerri James and Meredith Rigsby 16 Samantha Combs, Brittney Whitlock, Kandy Wiggins and Rebecca Johnson 17 Hollyn Breen and Sarah Nerren

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LA Opera

The Louisiana Opera Company left its audience speechless, with a powerful performance of the Francis Poulenc classic, Dialogues of the Carmelites. The martyrs of Compeigne take center stage, as the central figure, a young candidate who has recently joined a Carmelite convent during the height of France’s reign of terror. Forced to confront her own mortality in the face of death, Blanche struggles to make sense of the world. Told in twelve scenes, the opera is based on the true story of Carmelite nuns martyred during the terror for their refusal to renounce their faith. The performance was held at Northminster Church, and it was sponsored by Carrick Inabnett, Barbara Thompson, Richard Harrison, Anne Patten, Dr. D.H. Clark, Craig Henry and Jackie Yeldell.

On the BayouScene

1 Anne Patten, Jeﬀerson Manning, Maggie and Scott Zentner 2 Tyler Smith and Ron Ulen 3 Peggy Burns and Susan Curry 4 Al Peterson and Ann Bloxom Smith 5 Ann Bloxom Smith and Bob Eisenstadt 6 Lamar Buﬃngton and Shirley Vining 7 Dixon, Cutler and Helen Tuft

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7th Annual Shindig

On Friday, March 20th guests attended the 7th annual Shindig for the Ouachita Council on Aging at Dr. and Mrs. Herschel Harter’s MBH Ranch in Calhoun. Dressed in their best country and western attire, they danced on the barn floor to the music of the beloved Easy Eddie and the Party Rockers. A live and silent auction benefitted the Meals on Wheels Program in Ouachita Parish provided by the Council on Aging. Included was a live auction for George Rodrigue Blue Dog print. Catering was provided by Catfish Charlie’s which included a delicious spread of catfish, chicken, shrimp and all the trimmings. For more information about Ouachita Council on Aging and their services, visit their website at www.ouachitacoa.com.

On the BayouScene

1 Larry Collum, Cherry Phillips, Andrew Shealy and Shaina Bridges 2 Ann Peters, Chris Eby and Suzanne White 3 Sonya and Doug Kile, Ken and Michelle Phillips, Bobby and Carolyn Phillips 4 Mary Beth Harter, Joel Hunt, Dr. Herschel Harter, Gus Campbell and Dr. Jane Mickey 5 Bill Wieger and Janet Smith 6 Denise Breard and Pam Murphy 7 Dr. Herschel Harter and Sue Bishop 8 Jennifer Bass and Ashley Doughty 9 Mike McGee and Donna Donald 10 Stephanie Smith and Debbie Ware 11 Lacy McCarthy with Fred and Alice Monroe 12 Deann Butler, Les Critez, Gary and Ashley Moreau 13 Glen Justice and Billy Justice 14 Charvie and Dr. William Gordon 15 Michele and Tripper Lowentritt 16 Mary Beth Harter and Debbie Luﬀey

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Abita Tasting at Live Oaks Abita Brewery was on hand at Live Oaks Bar and Ballroom to tap a special cask of Bourbon Barrel Aged Macchiato Stout. The beer was produced in the brewhouse and fermented in the same manner as their regular Macchiato Stout. During aging espresso dolce coffee beans were added to the aging, tank to add a strong coffee flavor and aroma to the beer. Afterwards, it was aged in American Oak and Bourbon barrels, imparting different flavors and aroma to the beer. After aging for 8-12 weeks the barrels were blended together and cask conditioned. The result was a sweet stout with flavors of coffee, honey, toffee, vanilla and bourbon. After the tasting, guests were treated to a great show of live music featuring The TonTons and The Suffers.

2 4

On the BayouScene

1 Michael Aronson and Carlos Young 2 Misty Holland, Peter Stamey and Adam Stamey 3 James Earl Simpson and Julie LeBell 4 Scott Bonner, Todd May and Remy Wilkins 5 Carol and Phil Walters 6 Rocky Goolsby and Paul Ruiz 7 Maggie Rockett and Stephanie Gullette 8 Staci Richard and Javari Latin 9 Joe Chisholm, Van Edwards and Lee Edwards 10 Jeff Birchfield, Wendy Ryland, Tim Kerrigan and Paul Gullette 11 Delia Simpson officially taps the keg! 12 Delia Simpson and Leigh Ann Palmer 13 Nichole Amman and Frank Elkins

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KEDM West Side Story Director’s Gala On March 28 KEDM Public Radio hosted their Director’s Gala for West Side Story. The event took place in the University of Monroe’s Sculpture Garden. The space was transformed into a New York City backyard by Stuart Scalia. Guests enjoyed Puerto Rican cuisine along with Chip Strode’s piña coladas. The evening featured a jazz trio of ULM students.

On the BayouScene

1 Georgie Porter, Stuart Scalia and Buﬀ Harvey 2 Kelly Ann Callahan and Gary O’Loughlin 3 Lila Strode and Jay Curtis 4 Chris Ringo and Victoria Greer 5 Danielle Glennon and Christina Bruno 6 Bill Rambin, Jorenda Stone, Bob Eisenstadt 7 Bill Levinson and Tami Madison 8 Donna Stephenson, Shirley Sanders and Penny Aulds 9 Shirley and Roddy Goodwin, Tammy Whitlock 10 Hunt Neely and Brenda Myers 11 Robin Stephens and Lila Strode 12 Jed and Laura Jennings 13 Jordan Hinkle and Magena Brooks

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ULM Lyceum Series

A packed auditorium at ULM anxiously awaited the moment when George Takei beamed into the podium, the latest in the ULM Presidential Lyceum Series of speakers. The Star Trek star and social media phenomenon joined the list of previous Lyceum speakers, which includes Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Ben and Jerry of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream and Dan Rather. During the talk, Takei discussed his life, including his time in a World War II internment camp in southeastern Arkansas, a time he’s memorialized in a new play headed to Broadway. He also discussed his struggles in Hollywood as a gay man during the 1970s and 80s. Prior to the speech, Takei and his husband, Brad, were the guests of honor at a patrons’ reception in the ULM Library Conference Center. Fans and patrons alike mobbed Takei and Brad at the door, requesting autographs and hoping to spend a moment with the television icon and his spouse. As Takei made his way across the room, he paused countless times to graciously sign autographs, visit with supporters, and share a laugh or two.

On the BayouScene

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1 President Nick Bruno and Carole Kilpatrick 2 Jennifer and Adam Haneline with Dr. Zeke Wetzel 3 Pat Anderson, Martha Jane Anderson and Hershel Gentry 4 Sara Webber and Courtney Delaney 5 Bob Eisenstadt and Ann Bloxom Smith 6 Don and Kris McKeithen 7 Junior Rawls and Jan Hutchinson 8 JB Landry, Tex Kilpatrick and Zach Marchelos 9 Gregory Hudgins and Jeremy Bolom 10 Mark and Jodi Stephens 11 Bill McGown, Monica Bontte and Lary Nichols 12 Don Wheeler and Keith Brodus 13 George and Brad Takei with President Bruno 14 Bert Williamson and Kris Kelley 15 Wendy and Adam Ryland 16 Emily Morris and Lauren Baker

North Elite Cheer Athletics Excellent Cheer and Tumble Training in Northeast Louisiana

ORTH ELITE CHEER ATHLETICS is the home for excellent cheer and tumble training in Northeast Louisiana with a vision of giving every child they train a piece of love and commitment to the sport. With classes starting at age 3 all the way through college, any age can benefit from the training at North Elite. Tara Jeffirs opened the gym in 2009, but has been coaching since the age of 14. She is currently the coach for St. Frederick Varsity and Junior High Cheer squads, in addition to overseeing all aspects of North Elite. “I think it is so important to start your child early in cheerleading and tumbling,” said Jeffirs. “Parents need to understand that kids making junior and high school

teams begin cheering as 7-year-olds on AllStar teams. Performing in front of thousands can easily prepare your child for a small panel of judges during tryouts. Cheerleading is not what it is used to be. It is highly competitive, and the All-Star industry is rapidly growing!” North Elite is home to seven competitive All-Star teams for ages 3 to 17 years old. Recently, North Elite had the Blue Sapphires, a youth level 2 team, compete in the UCA Nationals in Orlando, Florida and placed 4th in the nation in their division. North Elite is even expanding to open a building next door to their current gym, specifically for their All-Star teams. In addition to competitive cheer, North

Elite offers summer camps and classes, private lessons and birthday parties. Conveniently located off Lamy Lane, North Elite is in the heart of Monroe and is easily accessible. For Jeffirs, cheerleading is about more than just a hobby. “I believe that if we can train every child to leave this gym as a more confident, clean and enthusiastic cheerleader or tumbler, then I feel like we have accomplished our goal,” said Jeffirs. “It is our job to make your child happy and safe while pushing them to exceed all expectations!” For more information on North Elite Cheer Athletics, call 318-361-0909 or 318366-4188 or visit their website, northelite.com.

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GARDEN PARTY This season’s outfits seem to be made from bouquets of flowers, bright hues, pretty pastels and gorgeous whites. Silhouttes echo decades past in materials that are delicate and free-flowing with feminie details and flattering tailoring. Photography by Martin G Meyers and Hair and Makeup by Meka Reliford

Models: Kayla Stites and April Hooper

SALT & PEPPER ACCESSORY BOUTIQUE

Kayla is wearing a multicolored floral demi dress with black lace cutouts and fringe. This chic little number is accessorized with a beaded statement necklace, layered pink bracelets and fuschia open-toe chunky heels. April looks stunning in this layered strapless sheath dress. It’s simple silhoutte is perfect for a night out. Add gold accessories and these unique sideswept buckle heels.

K-SERAâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;BOUTIQUE

We adore this gorgeous, structured dress with floral motif on April. Add a large statement necklace, delicate bracelet and earring with a pop of color and these classic nude pumps for a classic look. Kayla looks radiant in this simple white top with decorative sleeve. The look is completed with an A-line skirt with zippered detailing and t-strap fringe heels.

PELICANâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;DISTRICT

Kayla is breathtaking in this beautiful and classic high low tee shirt dress that has a great flow for day or night. Finish the look with layered necklaces and neutral cork wedges. April looks ready for Summer in this delicate floral top with ruffle embellishments on the sleeves. Add a crisp white cigarette pant and these sleek neutral heels.

HERRINGSTONES

Kayla and April are having a blast in these Show Me Your Mumu outifts. Joyful flora dance across a vivid red background in Kayla’s tropical maxi. Add a long, beaded necklace and neutral wedge for a finished look. A brilliant blue and classic white baroque pattern makes April’s tea party midi skirt perfect for this season’s sunny days. Complete the outfit with this darling crop-fitted tank with dangling lace.

BEAU MONDE BOUTIQUE

This floral romper with crochet detailing on April is great for days in the sun or a night out with friends. Add these openback booties with gorgeous woven leather straps on a woodgrain heel and hit the town. Kayla is stunning in this simple lace dress with pintuck detail. Accessorize with layered bracelets and these darling peep-toe wedges.

Artist of the Month

Robert G. Ward is This Month’s Feature Artist at the River Gallery in West Monroe

obert G. Ward is the May 2015 Featured Artist-of-theMonth at the River Gallery in West Monroe. He is in his second year of being affiliated with the Gallery. Previously, he taught painting and drawing at ULM for 42 years, retiring as a Professor of Art in 2008. His exhibition, Our Own Backyard, consists of a series of acrylic on canvas paintings depicting the landscape of the Lake D’Arbonne area in Union Parish where he and his artist-wife Linda Ward live. He states “To paint a landscape is one thing, but to live in the landscape that you are painting is certainly another more insightful thing.” The River Gallery, is located at 308 Trenton Street, West Monroe, and is open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The gallery is the oldest and largest co-op gallery in the state. Admission is always free. Call 322-2380 for more information or visit www.ouachitariverartgallery.com and don't forget to "like" us on Facebook for sneak peeks of new art.

P&S Surgical Hospital CONTINUED FROM 141

counseling regarding the risks, benefits and alternatives for bariatric operations. Long-term success is only possible when matched with excellent dietary habits, nutritional guidelines and exercise as part of an accredited bariatric program. Additionally, patients who have surgery outside the U.S. may have difficulty finding bariatric programs willing to accept them for long-term routine care once they return home. The LCWLS’s Total Lifestyle Care program offers nutritional and lifestyle counseling and support groups comprised of other bariatric patients to help our patients adjust to life-changing transitions. We welcome you to call us and learn more about our accredited program.

LCWLS is a partnership between Dr. Walter Sartor, P&S Surgical Hospital, and St. Francis Medical Center. Like us at facebook.com/LCWLS, and call us today at 1-866-821-LIVE.

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Under the Sea. Salt & Pepper carries more than stylish clothing and jewelry. They now offer a wide selection of items for the home. We are in love with this seahorse inspired hamper. It’s perfect for the dorm room! Find these and more at Salt and Pepper Accessory Boutique in West Monroe. Light Up My Life. Fabulous Fabric in Monroe has more in store than just gorgeous panels and custom made pieces. These Sydney Hale Co. hand poured candles make great gifts for mom. With fragrances like Eucalyptus Sage, Applewood and Birch and Sassafras, you can’t go wrong. Beachy Keen. Lincoln Outdoor Living in Ruston offers a great selection of gifts for grads. This herringbone beach towel is one of many different colors and styles to choose from. Perfect for the beach-bound graduate.

No Dress Code. Now that the graduation guy has tossed his school uniforms, reward him with these laid back shirts from Pelican District. These soft and comfy shirts will be a great addition to his college closet!

Black and Gold. Armenta designs each piece of jewelry with a story to tell. Share that story with a loved one with this hand crafted designer Armenta necklace in blackened silver and 18k. gold with diamonds available at Hollis & Company Jewelers in Monroe.

Baton Rouge Bound. If your graduate is headed south in the fall, they will appreciate this hand drawn LSU campus ink and watercolor print by Linda Theobald from Haven on Forsythe Avenue in Monroe. From Miller Dorm to Middleton Library and Death Valley to Dalrymple Drive, this print will ensure that the future tiger is familiar with their new surroundings while looking cute hanging on their wall!

Monogrammed Man. Give the grad this shaving kit, perfect for keeping his shaving kit together. Located at Sue Paperie in Ruston, these bags can be personalized or monogrammed, giving it that extra grown-up feel.

Be a Freebird This Summer!. With these handcrafted one-of-a-kind vintage American inspired Freebird shoes by Steve Madden. It's a unique way to ﬁnish oﬀ any look from summer festivals to fall classes. Also available in boots. Find these at K-Sera Boutique in West Monroe. Life’s a Beach. Celebrate and congratulate the graduate with this fun and funky bag from Herringstone’s. They will have plenty of room to pack summer necessities for a carefree summer before heading to campus in the fall. Louisiana Love. Show your school and state spirit with these Louisiana tees found at Beau Monde in Ruston. Made with super soft cotton fabric, these make great gifts for the grad on your list. Geaux Graduates. This unique LSU print will be a great gift for any guy or girl headed to Baton Rouge. Dorm room walls can be boring and blank, so give the grad this gift from Thurman’s Food Factory & Gifts to hang and display their school spirit!

Ciao Bella. When it comes to looking your best, Rain the Salon downtown in Monroe has you covered with Ultimate Face Cosmetics. Their lipsticks are one-ofa-kind. Glamorous colors made with beeswax, aloe, tea tree, spearmint and peppermint, you can layer and mix. Our current favorite, the new shade, Bella, makes a great gift for the graduate with style.

Graduation = Freedom. No matter where the graduate is headed after May, they will love this hand-drawn distressed American ﬂag tank. Mr. P’s Tees is a local favorite, so they can represent their North Louisiana roots as they travel across this great land.

Bag it up. Just in time for Festival Season, Erin’s Attic in Ruston has everything you need to complete your look. This embroidered tote is one of many styles to choose from. Pair it with a sundress or jeans for the perfect boho chic look.

Layers of Love Layer Mom in love with these fresh beaded necklaces from Herringstone’s in Monroe. With a combination of bright colors, signature stones and fun tassels, these strands will look great on any mom.

Wine Down. These 20oz break free wine glasses come in a set of 4. A single letter monogram can be added for a personal touch for Mom this Mother’s Day. They can be found at Lincoln Outdoor Living in Ruston, LA.

Regenica. Obagi Products are known for their powerful results. Surprise mom this year with ReGenica, a 3 step program for rejuvenation. An overnight repair, eye cream and day repair, this system provides maximum results. Obagi products can be found at Derma MediQ, located in Monroe.

Art to Eat On Clementine Hunter is one of Louisiana’s most famous female artists. Her work can be seen at the Smithsonian Institute and can now be purchased at Material Things on Forsythe Avenue in Monroe. These original Clementine Hunter dishes by Jennifer Sweeney have been re-released and would be the perfect piece of art to add to your mom’s dining room!

Make a Statement. A no fail gift for mom this season is a statement necklace. They can be worn with anything from a white button-down to a sundress, adding a pop of color to any outfit. This gorgeous blue stone necklace can be found at Beau Monde Boutique in Ruston.

Make it personal. Give mom this one-of-a-kind gift from Sue Paperie in Ruston. A personalized or monogrammed bag will set her apart from the crowd and show her just how special she is to you! Lip Envy. We love MD Mineral’s Mineral Volume Lipsticks, infused with shea butter, natural avocado and jojoba seed oil. They are a go-to product for women of all ages. Our new obsession is Fantasy, a bright, fun pink that is perfect for the fashion-forward mom.

You’ve been framed. This adorable burlap frame is perfect for a shabby chic look. Frame a picture of you and mom together for a no-fail gift this mother’s day. Salt and Pepper Accessory Boutique now carries great items for the home, in addition to their wide selection of shoes, clothing and jewelry.

Natural Beauty. Laminin by Missy Robertson features a handmade line of jewelry inspired by natural beauty. The line includes real leather, pearls, and gem stone pieces. Find this and more at K-Sera Boutique in West Monroe.

Tray Chic. This hammered tray features a ﬂeur de lis and is the perfect present for any mom who loves to entertain. Available in the gift room of Thurman’s Food Factory & Gifts, this tray can be used to feature culinary cuisine or just display on a shelf.

Fleur de, please? A romantic modern design with an antique ﬂair, these Midnight ﬂeur de lis earrings by designer Armenta are a wonderful choice for the fashionista mom with an edge. Inspired by Spanish design these earrings feature blackened sterling silver and 18K gold with diamonds. Find this and more at Hollis & Company Jewelers in Monroe.

Little Pig, Little Pig. These adorable pig platters from Paul Michael Company in Monroe make a fun present for mom this Mother’s Day. Paul Michael has fun, chic and quirky items for the home.

Rare Luxury. For Mother’s Day this year, give mom the gift of luxury. Introducing luxury hair care that harnesses the power of rare, natural Marula oil. Wild-harvested in Africa, the oil is cold-pressed to preserve its superior quality and nutrients. Found at Rain the Salon in Monroe, a Paul Mitchell Salon.

Making Memories This one-of-a-kind custom wood art is perfect for mom to show oﬀ those cute children and adorable grandchildren. You supply the picture and The Patio Place in Monroe prints it on a wooden canvas that can hang inside or outdoors.

Floral FLAX. Have Mom feeling comfortable and relaxed for Mother’s Day in this Dreamy Dress in Blue Night Floral, a piece of FLAX from Rose Boutique in Delhi.

Serving up Style Everyone gathers around Mom’s table for that delicious home cooking, so give her a new dining table that she will love. This Caravan Round Dining Table from Sleepy Hollow is a European inspired casual traditional dining table that features a solid Mahogany fretwork design wood base with turned pilasters.

Caudalie Paris. The Crème de la crème, luxurious and eﬀective, this exceptional cream delivers ultimate anti-aging action for visibly younger skin. Available at MD Minerals inside Hopkins Dermatology in Monroe, the Caudalie products make wonderful gifts for mom.

Monarch Mama. We all know that moms can float like a butterfly and sting like a bee. This Monarch Butterfly shirt is from the new line up from Mr. P’s Tees and features pops of orange, yellow, white and black on a super soft tri-blend chocolate colored short sleeve tee. This tee would be the perfect fit for any mom of any age!

Under the Dome. This handsome cheese dome makes the perfect gift for the hostess mom. Perfect to showcase cheeses at parties, she will be thrilled. It is big enough to double as a cake plate. This and more gifts for the home can be found at Paul Michael Company in Monroe.

SkinCeuticals. Spa Nouvelle located in Monroe has Mother’s Day gifts that range from gift certiﬁcates to products. Great skin care is something every mother wants, and this SkinCeuticals duo is just what she needs. The A.G.E. Interrupter visibly diminishes thinning skin and wrinkles and The Metacell Renewal B3 visibly corrects ﬁne lines and the loss of elasticity.

Light the Night. The Patio Place in Monroe oﬀers a variety of patio accessories and this table ﬁreplace is perfect for any mom that enjoys sitting on her patio or in the garden. Using a citronella gel, this candle can keep away mosquitoes and add a soft glow to the table.

Take a seat, Mom. Let mom sit back and relax this Mother’ Day in this Waverly Accent Chair. This moderately scaled vintage modern inspired arm chair with canted legs is part of the HGTV Home Furniture Collection and available at Sleepy Hollow Furniture in Monroe.

Positive Aﬃrmations. Embody the power of intention with the “I am” line of products, available in 9 diﬀerent collections. Express and empower yourself with scents like, Blessed, Free or Naughty. Find this and more at Moody Blues Boutique in West Monroe.

North Delta Ramble

Alan Brockman’s North Delta Ramble returned to the Riverbend Barn, and hundreds of fans showed up to support a unique, live music venue just up the way from town. Brockman’s efforts to establish the Ramble have been rewarded with more than a dozen sponsors and a recurring show on LPB, which features the event prominently. While out at the barn, visitors chowed down on cuisine prepared by the folks over at Cormier’s Crawfish while sipping brews from Marsala and Choice Brands. Cormier’s provided Pig Sandwich Bites and Jambalaya. And no Spring party in Louisiana would be complete without some of Cormier’s crawdads. This year, the mudbugs are excellent. But food and drink were just the appetizer. The main course was the live music. On hand to wow the crowd was Rosco Bandana, the rising stars of Gulf Coast music. Part Mumford and Sons, part Lady Antebellum, Rosco Bandana has been taking the Country world by storm, and it’s a band you’ll be hearing a lot more about in the years to come.

On the BayouScene

1 Julie LeBell and James Simpson, Scott and Heather Rodgers 2 Lacey Stinson, Caroline Youngblood and Rebecca Honeycutt 3 Bob and Brenda Walters, Trey Parker, Kim and Aaron Dietrich 4 Kevin Alexander and Brad Shows 5 Alan and Caroline Brockman 6 Michelle Russell and Dan Podkulski 7 Maggie and Steven Rocket 8 Erika Lobenstein, Emory Nolan and Cameron Glenn and Ashley Higgins 9 Lamar and Heather Walters and Steve and Myka Sims 10 Rhelda and Mike Nolan and Caroline Brockman 11 Jessie Gray and Sandy Gimber 12 Amy Sawyer, Justin and Dana Tarver, Mead and Flea Hardwick and Mike Sawyer 13 Kathy and Bill Patrick 14 Charlyn and Scott Leehy 15 Amanda Wimberly and Charlen Campbell 16 Caroline Brockman and Meghan Foote 17 Teddy and Renee Schneider, Mary Katherine and David Crigler, Caroline Delahaye 18 Maggie and Jason Nelson 19 Kristen and Stephen Hill 20 Shannon Manning and Drandon McDaniel 21 Katie and Ben Dean and Jaclyn and Bradley Hall 22 Kathryn and Wilson Barham, Meghan and Jeﬀ Foote 23 Chris and Kristy Rizzo, Kelley and Matt West, Nicole West 24 Kara and Chris Pratt

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BayouLife Icons Ball

More than 200 people turned out to honor the inaugural class of Bayou Icons at the first annual BayouLife Icons Ball, held at Bayou DeSiard Country Club March 26. Dressed to the nines, more than a dozen of the 21 icons to date were the guests of honor at the party, which was organized as a fundraiser for the Cooley House Foundation, a nonprofit group that has undertaken restoration of the historic G.B. Cooley House on South Grand in Monroe. Bayou Icons John Denison and Jorenda Stone emceed the event, which featured a special appearance by Icon Mary Simpson, who delighted attendees with her musical stylings—including a special engagement shoutout to her son, James. Following the presentation, Rod Allen Payne entertained the crowd and got feet tapping with a few choice dance numbers. The event not only raised money for the Cooley House restoration, it also raised significant awareness of one of the region’s most historic structures.

On the BayouScene

1 Norene Smith, Terry Reeves and Danette Sager, Sharon Brown, Sally Hines and Linda Reeves 2 Phyllis Rambo Gordon, Nick McKinney, Sylvia Masur and Maré Brennan 3 Jean Huenefeld, Mary Kathryn McGuﬃe, Corie Massey, Fred Huenefeld and Danny Massey 4 Delia Simpson, Katie Smith, Mary Simpson, James Simpson and Julie LeBell 5 Deidra and Jeremy Adair 6 Drs. Thomas and LaTonya Williams 7 Ken and Vee Dickey 8 Lanell and Dr. Ray Armstrong 9 Ellie Jackson, Rheagan Sutton and Julianne Tippen 10 Adele Ransom and Burg Ransom 11 Blake Phillips, Cherry Phillips and Tex Kilpatrick 12 Becky and Chet Harrod 12 Tex and Carole Kilpatrick 14 Mac Sandel, Carole Parsons, Maggie Sandel and Nancy Sandel 15 LA Senator Mike Walsworth, John Denison, Dawne Walsworth, Mil Bodron, Anne and Cookie Cookston 16 LaVerne Bodron and Rusty Tether 17 John Denison and Jorenda Stone

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Brown Bag Concerts

The Brown Bag is back! One of Spring’s most popular traditions returned to Anna Gray Noe Park April 8 for the first show of the season. And the audience wasn’t disappointed, either. This year’s first concert featured the dynamic guitar duo of Tyler Christiana and Tommy Fields, who performed for almost an hour as the crowd enjoyed a lunch outside in the temperate Spring air. Hosted annually by the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council, the events are supported by sponsors that include First Baptist Church of Monroe, Mulhearn Funeral Homes, CenturyLink, Community Trust Bank, and the City of Monroe. Each year, for every Wednesday during the month of April, Anna Gray Noe becomes the home of a live concert, which organizers hope encourages people to socialize outside. Free tea and lemonade are provided courtesy of First Baptist Church, while Mulhearn’s provides visitors with cookies. Concert goers are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket, and maybe pack a lunch.

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On the BayouScene

1 Tommy Sue Johnson, Megan Bunker, Laura Bunker and Jenna Bunker 2 Don Sharp, Ainsley and Betty Sharp 3 Jorenda Stone and Bill Rambin 4 Margaret Smith and Nancy Dillingham 5 Sharon Clark and Lynn Leehy 6 Walker Moller and Thomas Tugwell 7 Donna Fields and Tamara Fields 8 Sherra Fertitta, Tommy Usrey and Elspie Franklin 9 Tristen and Dianne Mulhearn 10 Barbra Walker and Gloria Darnell 11 Barbara Studer, Lanell Armstrong and Vera Eady 12 Tyler Christiana and Tommy Fields 13 Cindy Hoover and Sheila Trichell 14 Marguerite Anderson and Georgia Street

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Downtown Gallery Crawl

The seven galleries which comprise the Downtown Gallery Crawl threw open their doors April 2 for the first art gallery event of the Spring. And in keeping with tradition, the annual River Jam was held that night to cap off the evening. Strolling from gallery to gallery visitors took in artwork by some of the region’s best-loved artists while also gaining exposure to a few up-andcomers, as well. A themed exhibition spanning two galleries—UPSTAIRS and The Big Room—honored the works of Louisiana native and Virginia poet Ferrell Mercer. Caroline Youngblood returned to the Gallery Crawl with an exhibition of new works at MAD Gallery. Meanwhile, across the Ouachita at the River Gallery, Marlen Waters debuted a new collection titled “Live, Love, Laugh, Letter and Paint.” The Downtown Gallery Crawl is one of the most popular recurring events downtown, and it brings together a diverse cross-section of the Monroe art, business and social communities.

On the BayouScene

1 Bob Ward and Margaret Ellerman 2 Sandra Hammons and Jill Hammons 3 Cyndi Kennedy, Rob Heisler and Tara Holmes 4 Charlie Heck with Don and Mitzi Gates 5 Chris Hand, Evan Lay, Camille Barmore and Aaron Moore 6 Emily and Bob Rash 7 Robert and Gerri Ellis 8 Carol Parsons and Spencer Lee 9 Avery Cunningham and Chris Brown 10 Al Peterson and Caroline Youngblood 11 Gary and Sharon Ratcliff 12 Jenny Ellerbe and Frank Hamrick 13 Tiffany Huffer, Leigh Buffington, Sadie Prince, Carson Huffer and Ty Huffer 14 Darrell Brown and Brenathia Tenner 15 Mac and Leah Reitzell 16 Austin Bantel, Katie Ayan, Kelsea McCrary, Bethany Wilkins and Brad Arender 17 Denise and Brooke Futch

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